Image display device and operation control method thereof

Abstract

An image display device (1) is provided. Such an image display device (1) has a display unit (6) for displaying a predetermined image and an operation unit (3) for receiving an operation input from a user. The display unit (6) includes a first area (611A) and a second area (611B). The operation unit (3) includes a first operation unit (3A) provided to correspond to the first area (611A) and a second operation unit (3B) provided to correspond to the second area (611B). The image display device (1) further has a partition means (85) for partitioning the first area and (611A) the second area (611B), and the partition means is provided between the first area and the second area. This makes it possible to provide the same functions as those of a plurality of image display devices with one image display device.

Description

Image display device and operation control method thereof

[0001] The present invention relates to an image display device and a method for controlling its operation, and more particularly to a game device that displays game images and a method for controlling its operation.

[0002] There are known game devices that allow multiple players to play competitive or cooperative games (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In Patent Document 1, in single mode, a single image is displayed on the display unit of one game device to play the game. On the other hand, in cooperative mode, a single image is displayed on the display units of multiple adjacent game devices to play the cooperative game.

[0003] In this cooperative mode, multiple game devices are lined up and their display units are used as a single display unit. This requires multiple game devices, which leads to high costs. Furthermore, in order to install multiple game devices in an arcade, the arcade needs to have a large area. Therefore, a game device that can solve these problems is needed.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-158025

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an image display device that can provide the same functions as multiple image display devices with a single image display device. In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide a game device that can provide the same functions as multiple game devices with a single game device. Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling the operation of this image display device.

[0006] These objects are achieved by the present inventions (1) to (16) below: (1) An image display device having a display unit that displays a predetermined image and an operation unit that receives operation input from a user, wherein the display unit includes a first area and a second area, the operation unit includes a first operation unit provided corresponding to the first area and a second operation unit provided corresponding to the second area, and the image display device further includes partition means that is provided between the first area and the second area and separates the first area from the second area.

[0007] (2) The image display device described in (1) above, wherein the first area and the first operating unit, and the second area and the second operating unit are configured to be symmetrical with the partition means as the central axis.

[0008] (3) The image display device described in (1) or (2) above, wherein the partition means is configured to be removed from between the first area and the second area when a predetermined event occurs.

[0009] (4) The image display device according to any one of (1) to (3) above, wherein the partition means is a partition image that separates the first area from the second area.

[0010] (5) The image display device according to (4), wherein the partition image includes the predetermined image.

[0011] (6) An image display device described in any of (1) to (5) above, wherein the display unit has a full screen area including the first area and the second area, and displays the specified image in the full screen area.

[0012] (7) An image display device according to any one of (1) to (6) above, wherein the display unit has a rectangular frame surrounding the first area and the second area, and the partition means is configured to appear integrated with the frame.

[0013] (8) The image display device according to (7), wherein the frame has a joint formed to be recessed inward.

[0014] (9) An image display device as described in (7) or (8) above, wherein the frame body has a first frame member corresponding to a first operating unit and a second frame member corresponding to a second operating unit, one end and the other end of the first frame member are arranged opposite each other, and one end and the other end of the second frame member are arranged opposite each other.

[0015] (10) An image display device as described in (9) above, wherein the partition means is formed to connect one end of the first frame member to the other end, and is formed to connect one end of the second frame member to the other end.

[0016] (11) An image display device described in any of (1) to (10) above, wherein the first operation unit and the second operation unit are configured to be able to simultaneously receive the operation input from the user.

[0017] (12) The image display device according to (6) above, further comprising a switching means for switching the area in which the predetermined image is displayed between the first area and the entire screen area.

[0018] (13) The image display device described in (12) above, wherein the switching means switches the area in which the specified image is displayed between the second area and the full screen area, and the first area and the second area are configured to be able to display the specified image independently.

[0019] (14) An image display device as described in (12) or (13) above, wherein the switching means simultaneously switches the area from the first area to the full screen area and switches the area from the second area to the full screen area.

[0020] (15) An image display device including a first sub-image display device having a first display unit that displays a predetermined image and a first operation unit that receives operation input from a user, and a second sub-image display device having a second display unit that displays the predetermined image and a second operation unit that receives the operation input from the user, wherein the first display unit and the second display unit are configured as a single display surface, and the image display device further includes a partition means that is provided between the first display unit and the second display unit and separates the first display unit from the second display unit.

[0021] (16) A method for controlling the operation of an image display device, comprising the steps of: displaying a predetermined image in a first area and a second area of ​​a display unit; switching the area in which the predetermined image is displayed from the first area to the entire screen area including the first area and the second area when a predetermined event occurs; removing a partition means provided between the first area and the second area; and displaying the predetermined image in the entire screen area.

[0022] The object of the present invention can also be achieved by the following inventions (1) to (12): (1) An image display device comprising: a display unit having a full screen area including a first area and a second area different from the first area, for displaying a predetermined image; an operation unit for receiving operation input from a user; and switching means for switching the area for displaying the predetermined image between the first area and the full screen area.

[0023] (2) The image display device according to (1) above, wherein the switching means switches the area in which the predetermined image is displayed when a predetermined event occurs.

[0024] (3) The image display device according to (1) or (2) above, wherein the switching means switches the area in which the specified image is displayed between the second area and the full screen area, and the first area and the second area are configured to be able to independently display the specified image.

[0025] (4) An image display device described in any of (1) to (3) above, wherein the switching means simultaneously switches the area from the first area to the full screen area and switches the area from the second area to the full screen area.

[0026] (5) The image display device according to any one of (1) to (4) above, wherein the switching means switches the area in which the predetermined image is displayed when the operation unit receives the operation input.

[0027] (6) The image display device according to any one of (1) to (5) above, wherein the display unit displays the predetermined image in the full screen area when the switching means switches the area to the full screen area.

[0028] (7) An image display device described in any of (1) to (6) above, wherein the operation unit is configured to be able to simultaneously receive the operation input for the first area and the operation input for the second area.

[0029] (8) An image display device according to any one of (1) to (7) above, wherein the operation unit has a first operation unit and a second operation unit that can be operated independently, the first area is provided corresponding to the first operation unit, and the second area is provided corresponding to the second operation unit.

[0030] (9) The image display device according to any one of (1) to (8) above, further comprising a partitioning means for separating the first area from the second area.

[0031] (10) The image display device according to any one of (1) to (9) above, wherein the image display device is a game device.

[0032] (11) A method for controlling the operation of an image display device, comprising: a step of displaying a predetermined image in a first area of ​​a display unit; a step of switching the area in which the predetermined image is displayed from the first area to the entire screen area including the first area when a predetermined event occurs; and a step of displaying the predetermined image in the entire screen area.

[0033] (12) The operation control method for an image display device described in (11) above further comprises the steps of: displaying the specified image in a second area different from the first area; and, when the specified event occurs, switching the area in which the specified image is displayed from the second area to the full screen area including the second area, wherein the steps of switching the area in which the specified image is displayed from the first area to the full screen area and switching the area in which the specified image is displayed from the second area to the full screen area are performed simultaneously.

[0034] According to the present invention, a single image display device can provide the same functions as multiple image display devices. In particular, a single game device can provide the same functions as multiple game devices. This allows for the provision of a small, cost-effective game device. Furthermore, a method can be provided in which a single game device can control the provision of multiple independent games and the provision of a single game.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a game device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a view showing a recording medium used in the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is an enlarged view showing the configuration of a display unit of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is an enlarged view showing the configuration of a display unit of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view showing the configuration of a display unit of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is an event table stored in a memory unit of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing game processing of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a plan view schematically showing an image display device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a perspective view schematically showing an image display device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a front view, a plan view, and a bottom view schematically showing the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a back view and a left side view schematically showing the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a perspective view schematically showing the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is an enlarged view showing a schematic configuration of the display unit of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] The image display device and the operation control method thereof according to the present invention will be described in detail below.

[0037] First Embodiment A. Image Display Device The image display device of the present invention is not particularly limited as long as it can display images. Examples of such image display devices include desktop personal computers, laptops, mobile phones, smartphones, televisions, game consoles, and liquid crystal displays.

[0038] For ease of understanding, the following will describe in detail a case where the image display device is a game device based on a preferred embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings. For convenience of explanation, the upper side in the drawings will be referred to as "upper", the lower side as "lower", the left side as "left", the right side as "right", the front side of the paper as "front", and the back side of the paper as "rear".

[0039] FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a game device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a view showing a recording medium used in the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 4 to 6 are enlarged views showing the configuration of the display unit of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is an event table stored in the memory unit of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] 1. Overview of the Game First, a game executed by the game device 1 of this embodiment will be described. The game device 1 can execute, for example, a fighting game or a role-playing game using the recording medium 11. Specifically, the game device 1 acquires character information (hereinafter referred to as "character information") recorded on the recording medium 11 by scanning the recording medium 11. The game device 1 then displays an image of the character on the display unit 6. This allows the game device 1 to execute a fighting game in which the character in question competes against an enemy (partner) character. After the game ends, a new recording medium 11 is dispensed from the game device 1. Note that the games executed by this game device 1 are not limited to the games described above.

[0041] 2. Recording Medium The recording medium 11 used in the game device 1 of this embodiment is not particularly limited as long as it is capable of storing character information. Such recording medium 11 is formed, for example, in the shape of a card, as shown in FIG. 2 . The recording medium 11 has a two-dimensional code 111 on its surface. Character information, item information, and the like are recorded in this two-dimensional code 111. Examples of the two-dimensional code 111 include QR Code (registered trademark) and Zcode (registered trademark). In the case of Zcode, the information is recorded so that it can be identified under invisible light (infrared light). The recording medium 11 may be an IC card for a game that stores player information and character information. The recording medium 11 may also be formed in an oval, circular, rectangular, or other shape.

[0042] 3. Game Device Next, the game device will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the game device 1 of this embodiment includes two game devices (a first sub-game device 1A and a second sub-game device 1B) that are provided adjacent to each other. This game device 1 has one display unit 6 and is controlled by one control unit 8. This allows the overall size of the game device 1 to be reduced. This also allows the overall cost of the game device 1 to be reduced. The game device 1 of this embodiment is not limited to a configuration in which two game devices are provided adjacent to each other (a two-in-one configuration), but may also be a configuration in which three or more game devices are provided adjacent to each other.

[0043] At first glance, the game device 1 of this embodiment appears to be two game devices placed next to each other. However, these two game devices are actually connected to form a single game device 1. As a result, each player (user) can play on their own sub-game device, or they can cooperate to play a single game. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 , this game device 1 has a housing 2, an operation unit 3, a reading unit 4, a speaker 5, a display unit 6, a memory unit 7, a control unit 8, and a communication unit 9. The configuration of each unit will be described below.

[0044] The housing 2, operation unit 3, reading unit 4, and speaker 5 of the game device 1 are the same as the sub-housing 2A, first sub-operation unit 3A, sub-reading unit 4A, and sub-speaker 5A for the first sub-game device 1A, and the sub-housing 2B, second sub-operation unit 3B, sub-reading unit 4B, and sub-speaker 5B for the second sub-game device 1B. Therefore, only the individual parts of the game device 1 will be described below as a representative.

[0045] <Cabinet> The cabinet 2 has the function of installing or storing each component of the game device 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the cabinet 2 is formed in a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape, but is not limited to this. The cabinet 2 may be formed as a single cabinet (twin cabinet), or may be formed by connecting sub-cabinets for each sub-game device. In the case of a twin cabinet, the cabinet 2 is formed symmetrically, and the center of the cabinet 2 (particularly the front) may be recessed inward. This allows the player to see at a glance that there are two game devices.

[0046] The cabinet 2 has a maintenance door 21 that allows a game manager to maintain and manage the operation rate of the game device 1, the distribution rate of the recording medium 11, etc. The door 21 is provided on the front of the cabinet 2. The door 21 has the function of accessing a maintenance panel 22 housed within the cabinet 2. As shown in FIG. 13 , a maintenance panel (electronic device) 22 is located on the back of the door 21. The maintenance panel 22 is composed of buttons that allow the game manager to test and manage the game device 1. With this configuration, for example, when a game manager wants to reset the game on the first sub-game device 1A, the game on the first sub-game device 1A can be independently managed without interrupting play on the second sub-game device 1B. Note that the door 21 is not an essential element of the game device 1.

[0047] <Operation Unit> The operation unit 3 has the function of receiving operation inputs made by the player to execute the game. The operation unit 3 is composed of four push buttons 31 and two rectangular operation fields 32. The push buttons 31 are provided symmetrically on the front side of the top surface of the cabinet 2. The operation fields 32 are provided on the top surface of the cabinet 2, behind the push buttons 31. The shape and position of the operation fields 32 are not particularly limited, and each may be rod-shaped or circular, or may be located between or in front of the push buttons 31. Such operation fields 32 are fields on which the player can place and move the recording medium 11. The operation fields 32 are configured so that the reading unit 4, described later, can read the recording medium 11.

[0048] The operation unit 3 includes a first sub-operation unit (first operation unit) 3A for the first sub-game device 1A and a second sub-operation unit (second operation unit) 3B for the second sub-game device 1B. The first sub-operation unit 3A and the second sub-operation unit 3B can be operated independently and can simultaneously receive different operation inputs. This makes it possible to execute different operations on the first sub-game device 1A and the second sub-game device 1B.

[0049] <Reading Unit> The reading unit 4 has a function of reading information from the recording medium 11 placed on the operation field 32. The reading unit 4 is provided inside the housing 2, below the operation field 32. Such a reading unit 4 is composed of, for example, an imaging device (camera) and an infrared light source. The infrared light source of the reading unit 4 irradiates infrared light onto the two-dimensional code 111 on the recording medium 11 from below the operation field 32. In this state, the imaging device captures an image of the two-dimensional code 111 on the recording medium 11, thereby reading the information recorded in the two-dimensional code 111 on the recording medium 11. Note that the reading unit 4 may be located anywhere within the housing 2 as long as the imaging device can capture an image of the operation field 32. Alternatively, the reading unit 4 may be composed of only an imaging device.

[0050] <Speaker> The speaker 5 has the function of outputting various sounds. The speaker 5 is provided at the back of the top surface of the cabinet 2, below the display unit 6. The number of speakers 5 is not particularly limited, and may be one or more than two. In this embodiment, two speakers 5 are provided on both sides of the back of the top surface of the cabinet 2 corresponding to each sub-game device. The sounds output by the speakers 5 include music and sound effects stored in the memory unit 7.

[0051] <Display Unit> The display unit 6 has a function of displaying a game image (a predetermined image). As shown in Fig. 1, the display unit 6 is provided on the speaker 5 on the top surface of the cabinet 2. The display unit 6 is composed of a single display panel, but may also be a touch panel. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 1, the display unit 6 is formed in a rectangular shape, but is not limited to this and may also be formed in a circular or triangular shape.

[0052] The display unit 6 has a full screen area 61 for displaying game images, and a frame 62 that surrounds the full screen area 61. The full screen area 61 includes individual areas 611 and partition areas 612. As shown in FIG. 5 , the full screen area 61 has the function of displaying game images across the entire display unit 6. When a player of the first sub game device 1A and a player of the second sub game device 1B are playing cooperatively or competitively, a game image is displayed in the full screen area 61.

[0053] The individual area 611 includes an area (first area) 611A that displays game images for the first sub game device 1A, and an area (second area) 611B that displays game images for the second sub game device 1B. These areas 611A, 611B are configured to have the same area, separated by a partition area 612, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 . This makes it appear to the player at a glance that there are two game devices. However, the area of ​​one of the areas may be configured to be smaller than the area of ​​the other area. For example, when a competitive game is being played between the first sub game device 1A and the second sub game device 1B, if the area 611A for the first sub game device 1A is large, the game image for the first sub game device 1A will be displayed larger. In this case, the player can be given the impression that the player of the first sub game device 1A is in the dominant position.

[0054] The first area 611A is provided to correspond to the first sub-operation unit 3A of the first sub-game device 1A. The first area 611A is formed in a rectangular shape, but is not limited to this. The second area 611B is provided to correspond to the second sub-operation unit 3B of the second sub-game device 1B. The second area 611B is formed in a rectangular shape, but is not limited to this. The first area 611A may display the same image as the image displayed in the second area 611B, or a different image. Furthermore, the first area 611A and the second area 611B can each display an image independently.

[0055] The partition region (third region) 612 has the function of separating the first region 611A from the second region 611B. Therefore, the partition region 612 is provided between the first region 611A and the second region 611B. The shape of the partition region 612 is not particularly limited and may be elongated ( FIG. 4 ), rectangular, or substantially trapezoidal ( FIG. 6 ). The area of ​​the partition region 612 is not particularly limited and may be larger or smaller than the areas of the first region 611A and the second region 611B. The partition region 612 may be further divided into multiple regions.

[0056] For example, as shown in Fig. 4, the partition area 612 may be divided along its short side into two partition areas. That is, the partition area 612 may have a first partition area 612A for the first area 611A and a second partition area 612B for the second area 611B. Also, as shown in Fig. 6, the partition area 612 may be divided along its long side into two partition areas. That is, the partition area 612 may have a third partition area 612C for a game image and a fourth partition area 612D for a text image. In this manner, multiple, mutually different images can be displayed in the partition area 612.

[0057] The frame 62 is provided on the speaker 5 or the housing 2. The frame 62 is formed in a rectangular shape, but is not limited to this. For example, the frame 62 may be formed in any shape, such as a circle or an ellipse. The frame 62 has a joint 621 formed in the center of its long side so as to be recessed inward. This joint 621 makes the frame symmetrical. Therefore, the display unit 6 can be seen as two display units, such as a sub-display unit 6A for the first sub-game device 1A and a sub-display unit 6B for the second sub-game device 1B.

[0058] The frame body 62 may include a first frame member 62A for the first sub game device 1A and a second frame member 62B for the second sub game device 1B. As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the first frame member 62A and the second frame member 62B are formed in a roughly "C" shape. One end and the other end of the first frame member 62A are in contact with one end and the other end of the second frame member 62B, respectively, to form a joint 621. With this configuration, the first frame member 62A and the second frame member 62B are arranged symmetrically with respect to the joint 621. This makes it possible for the display unit 6 to appear as two display units.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 4 , one end and the other end of the first frame member 62A are arranged opposite each other. Therefore, an image (divider image) that is the same as the appearance of the short side of the frame body 62 can be displayed in the first partition area 612A from one end to the other. This allows the first frame member 62A and the partition image to be connected to form a ring-shaped frame member (first frame member 62A). In other words, the partition image appears to be formed integrally with the first frame member 62A. This allows the player to recognize that the display unit 6 has a separate sub-display unit 6A.

[0060] On the other hand, one end and the other end of the second frame member 62B are provided facing each other. Therefore, an image (divider image) that is the same as the appearance of the short side of the frame body 62 can be displayed in the second partition area 612B from one end to the other. This allows the second frame member 62B and the partition image to be connected to form a ring-shaped frame member (second frame member 62B). In other words, the partition image appears to be formed integrally with the second frame member 62B. This allows the player to recognize that the display unit 6 has a separate sub-display unit 6B.

[0061] In this way, the first frame member 62A and the partition image constitute the frame body 62 for the first sub game device 1A. Similarly, the second frame member 62B and the partition image constitute the frame body 62 for the second sub game device 1B. This allows one frame body 62 to be divided into two frame members 62A, 62B, giving the player the impression that there are two game devices, even though there is only one game device 1. The first frame member 62A (first area 611A) and the first sub-operation unit 3A, and the second frame member 62B (second area 611B) and the second sub-operation unit 3B are arranged symmetrically about the central axis of the partition image. This gives the player the impression that there are two game devices.

[0062] <Storage Unit> Next, the storage unit 7 will be described. The storage unit 7 stores a game program and game data. The game program is a program for causing the game device 1 to execute a game, and is realized in cooperation with the hardware. The game data is data related to the game, and includes character data, music data, image data, sound effect data, etc.

[0063] Character data is data such as a character's name, special move, weapon, strength, etc. Music data is music data played from the speaker 5. Music data includes, for example, a plurality of music data, such as songs by singers and game songs. Image data is game image data. Game image data includes, for example, data such as character images, background images, and various effect images. Sound effect data is sound data played during game play and is different from music data. Sound effect data includes, for example, evaluation sound data that is played in response to the results of a player's operation.

[0064] The storage unit 7 stores predetermined events as shown in FIG. 7 . The predetermined events include, as shown in FIG. 7 , boss character appearance events, bonus events, random battle events, and lucky characters. These predetermined events are stored in association with the display area in which the game image should be displayed and the partition images that separate the display area. For example, boss character appearance event A is associated with the display area being the full screen area 61 only, with no partition images. At this time, as shown in FIG. 5 , an image is displayed in the full screen area 61. Furthermore, boss character appearance event B is associated with the display area being the individual area 611 and the partition area 612, with the partition images being an image of boss character B and a text image that reads "Power 20%." At this time, a partition image is displayed in the partition area 612, as shown in FIG. 6 .

[0065] Furthermore, for example, when one player is playing on the first sub game device 1A in the full screen area 61 and another player plays on the second sub game device 1B, an event is triggered. That is, the second sub-operation unit 3B of the second sub game device 1B receives an operation input for a random battle from the other player, and an event for random battle B is triggered. At this time, the display area for random battle B is associated with the individual area 611 and the partition area 612, and the partition image is a bar image. At this time, a partition image is displayed in the partition area 612, as shown in FIG. 4 .

[0066] Furthermore, when a game is played on the first sub game device 1A and the second sub game device 1B while recording media 11 with the same winning character are dispensed from the first sub game device 1A and the second sub game device 1B, an event is triggered. That is, when a player on the second sub game device 1B is activated during play on the first sub game device 1A, an event with the winning character is triggered. At this time, for example, an image is displayed in the entire screen area 61, as shown in FIG. 5 .

[0067] <Control Unit> Next, the control unit 8 will be described. The control unit 8 controls all functions related to the execution of the game. As shown in FIG. 3 , the control unit 8 has an acquisition means 81, a game processing means 82, a display control means 83, a switching means 84, a partition means 85, and a sound output control means 86.

[0068] (Acquisition Means) The acquisition means 81 has the function of acquiring information on operation input by the player, character information and game information from the recording medium 11, etc. The acquisition means 81 acquires operation input information when the player presses the push button 31. This allows operation input information to be received simultaneously from the first sub-operation unit 3A and the second sub-operation unit 3B. Such operation input information includes, for example, information on interrupt play and information on character selection. The acquisition means 81 also acquires character information and the like read by the reading unit 4. In addition, it acquires various other information obtained via the communication unit 9, which will be described later.

[0069] (Game Processing Means) The game processing means 82 has a function of processing the information acquired by the acquisition means 81 and the progress of the game. For example, the game processing means 82 determines information on game images stored in the storage unit 7 and provides it to the display control means 83. The game processing means 82 determines sound information and provides it to the sound output control means 86. The game processing means 82 also determines and activates predetermined events. In this way, the game processing means 82 processes the progress of the entire game.

[0070] Here, the game processing means 82 may determine the predetermined event randomly, periodically, in response to a player's operation input, or based on the number (plurality) of winning recording media 11. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 7, the game processing means 82 specifies a specific divider image corresponding to the predetermined event, but may also determine to display a predetermined image other than the divider image.

[0071] (Display Control Means) The display control means 83 has a function of controlling the display of all images related to the game. That is, the display control means 83 controls the display of game image information provided by the game processing means 82 and the display of divider images by the divider means 85. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the display control means 83 controls the display of game images independently in both the first area 611A and the second area 611B of the display unit 6. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 5, the display control means 83 controls the display of game images in the full screen area 61. Furthermore, the display control means 83 controls the display of linear divider images ( FIG. 4 ) and divider images such as game images and text images ( FIG. 6 ) in the divider area 612. In this way, the display control means 83 can control the display of predetermined images separately in each area of ​​the display unit 6.

[0072] (Switching Means) The switching means 84 has a function of switching between the full screen area 61 and the individual area 611 when a predetermined event is triggered by the game processing means 82 or when the operation unit 3 receives predetermined input information. Specifically, while a game is being played, the switching means 84 switches the display area of ​​the display unit 6 from the individual area 611 to the full screen area 61, or from the full screen area 61 to the individual area 611, when the predetermined event is triggered or input information is received. In other words, when a predetermined event occurs, the switching means 84 refers to the event table in Fig. 7 and performs control to switch the display area to the display area corresponding to the event.

[0073] Typically, the game device 1 is set up so that each sub-game device runs a game individually. Therefore, a partition image is displayed in the partition area 612 between the first area 611A and the second area 611B. Therefore, when a predetermined event is triggered, the switching means 84 can simultaneously switch the display area from the first area 611A to the full screen area 61 and from the second area 611B to the full screen area 61. On the other hand, when the sub-game devices are set up so that they run a game in cooperation with each other, a game image is displayed in the full screen area 61. Therefore, when a predetermined event is triggered, the switching means 84 can switch the display area from the full screen area 61 to the individual area 611 (the first area 611A and the second area 611B).

[0074] (Divider Means) The divider means 85 has a function of separating the first area 611A and the second area 611B, and is configured with a divider image. Specifically, when the switching means 84 switches the display area, the divider means 85 refers to the information table in FIG. 7 and identifies the divider area 612 and divider image corresponding to the event. The divider means 85 provides information on the identified divider area 612 and divider image to the display control means 83.

[0075] The divider image is not particularly limited as long as it can separate the first area 611A and the second area 611B. Therefore, the divider image may be a long image (bar image), a circular image, a curved image, a game image, a predetermined text image, or the like. For example, as shown in FIG. 7 , when a random battle B event is triggered, the divider means 85 identifies the bar image of the divider image and the display area. The divider means 85 provides this information to the display control means 83. In this case, as shown in FIG. 4 , a bar image is displayed in each of the first divider area 612A and the second divider area 612B. At this time, the bar image is configured with the same image as the exterior of the opposing frame member. As a result, the first frame member 62A and the bar image visually form a frame shape. Furthermore, the second frame member 62B and the bar image visually form a frame shape. This allows the player to recognize the presence of two game devices.

[0076] 7, when a boss character appearance event A or a winning character event is triggered, the partition means 85 determines that there are no partition images to display. Therefore, the partition means 85 provides information to the display control means 83 to erase the displayed partition image. In this case, as shown in FIG. 5, the partition image is erased and the game image is displayed in the entire screen area 61. This allows two players to enjoy the game simultaneously on one display unit 6.

[0077] 7, when the boss character appearance B event is triggered, the partition means 85 specifies the partition image "Boss Character B" and "Power 20%" and the display area. The partition means 85 provides this information to the display control means 83. In this case, as shown in FIG. 6, the boss character B is displayed in the third partition area 612C, and the text image "Power 20%" is displayed in the fourth partition area 612D. This allows the player to know how much power the boss character B has. The layout of the third partition area 612C and the fourth partition area 612D is not particularly limited, and the fourth partition area 612D may be positioned above the third partition area 612C.

[0078] (Sound Output Control Means) The sound output control means 86 controls the output of all sounds and music related to the game. Specifically, the sound output control means 86 controls the output of music and sounds determined by the game processing means 82. The sound output means 86 provides sound and music information to the speaker 5, thereby enabling the speaker 5 to output the sound and music.

[0079] In addition to the above configuration, the control unit 8 of the present invention may include an appearance change means having a function of changing the appearance of the divider image. The appearance change means can change the appearance of the divider image by receiving an operational input or randomly. For example, if the frame 62 of the display unit 6 of the game device 1 shown in FIG. 1 is changed to another frame having a different appearance (design), the appearance change means can change the appearance of the divider image to match the appearance of the new frame member. The appearance change means can also change the color or design of the divider image identified by the divider means 85 and decorate the divider image with a pre-stored image. This allows the divider image to be changed to match the appearance of the frame member, regardless of its appearance.

[0080] Specifically, the appearance changing means (not shown) receives operational input from the user and changes and adjusts the color parameters (hue, saturation, and brightness) of the partition image in the partition area 612. This appearance changing means can change and adjust the color parameters of the partition image in the first partition area 612A or the second partition area 612B for each sub game device. In this case, the appearance changing means can change and adjust the color parameters of the partition images in the upper, middle, and lower areas of the first partition area 612A.

[0081] For example, as shown in FIG. 14, the color parameters of the partition image in the upper region of the first partition region 612A are displayed on the display unit 6 of the first sub game device 1A. Adjacent to each parameter name, a bar indicating the degree of the parameter and the current percentage value are displayed. For example, the higher the percentage value of the parameter "saturation," the more vivid the color. The same is true for "hue" and "brightness." Note that the appearance changing means can also change and adjust the color parameters of the partition images in the upper region, middle region, and lower region all at once.

[0082] The control unit 8 may also include a mode change means for changing the play mode. The modes include a solo play mode, a competitive play mode, a cooperative play mode, a tournament play mode, etc. The mode change means can change the play mode by receiving an operational input or randomly. The mode change means can execute this mode change at any time. When a mode change occurs, the control unit 8 executes the above-described processing to correspond to the mode change.

[0083] <Communication Unit> The communication unit 9 has the function of communicating with an external network (LAN, WAN, Internet, etc.) or device via a wired or wireless connection. The game device 1 of the present invention may communicate data with other devices, such as other game devices or information terminals, via the communication unit 9. For example, the communication unit 9 can communicate with other devices to obtain music data or game programs. This allows the game program to be updated, making it possible to provide the latest games. Note that the game device 1 does not necessarily have to have the communication unit 9.

[0084] The image display device of the present invention has been described above as the game device 1, but in addition to the above-mentioned components, the game device 1 of this embodiment also has a coin slot, a coin return slot, and a recording medium 11 outlet on the front of the housing 2.

[0085] B. Operation Control Method of Image Display Device Next, an operation control method of the image display device of the present invention will be described. To facilitate understanding, the following description will be given taking as an example a case where the image display device is a game device. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of game processing of the game device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] First, when a player inserts a coin, the display control means 83 controls the display of a game image. As a result, the display unit 6 displays the game image (S1). While the player is playing the game, the control unit 8 determines whether the game processing means 82 has triggered a predetermined event (S2). If the predetermined event has not been triggered, the process proceeds to step S1, and steps S1 and S2 are repeated. On the other hand, if the predetermined event has been triggered, the process proceeds to step S3.

[0087] In step S3, the control unit 8 determines whether or not a game image is displayed in the individual area 611 (S3). If the control unit 8 determines that a game image is displayed in the individual area 611, it determines that the game image is displayed in the first area 611A and the second area 611B, and that a partition image is displayed in the partition area 612. At this time, the switching means 84 switches the display area of ​​the display unit 6 from the individual area 611 to the full screen area 61 (S4). Thereafter, the partition image is erased from the partition area 612 (S5). As a result, the display unit 6 displays the game image in the full screen area 61 (S6), and the processing ends.

[0088] On the other hand, if the control unit 8 determines in step S3 that the game image is not being displayed in the individual area 611, it determines that the game image is being displayed in the full screen area 61. At this time, the process proceeds to step S7. Next, the control unit 8 determines whether or not to switch the full screen area 61 to the individual area 611 (S7). If the control unit 8 determines not to switch the full screen area 61 to the individual area 611, the process proceeds to step S6, where the game image continues to be displayed in the full screen area 61 (S6). This ends the process.

[0089] On the other hand, if the control unit 8 determines that the full screen area 61 should be switched to the individual area 611, the switching means 84 switches the display area from the full screen area 61 to the individual area 611 (S8). Then, the partitioning means 85 identifies a partition image, and the partition image is displayed (S9). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1. In this manner, steps S1 to S9 are repeated.

[0090] The above-described processing method can be created by a program executed by a computer, and such a program is realized by a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU), a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), etc.

[0091] Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment of the image display device of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0092] 9 is a plan view schematically showing an image display device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The second embodiment will be described below, focusing on differences from the first embodiment described above, and a description of similarities will be omitted. Note that the same reference numerals are used to designate the same components as those in the first embodiment described above.

[0093] The image display device 100 of this embodiment differs from the game device 1 of the image display device of the first embodiment in that the operation unit 3 is configured as a touch panel and does not have a reading unit 4. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9 , the image display device 100 of this embodiment is configured as a smartphone. This image display device 100 has a display unit 6 having a first area 611A and a second area 611B, and an operation unit 3 having a first sub-operation unit 3A corresponding to the first area 611A and a second sub-operation unit 3B corresponding to the second area 611B. Processing of an image displayed in the first area 611A by the first sub-operation unit 3A and processing of an image displayed in the second area 611B by the second sub-operation unit 3B can be performed simultaneously.

[0094] The image display device 100 of this embodiment displays images in a first area 611A and a second area 611B, and allows the image in the first area 611A to be operated with the first sub-operation unit 3A, and the image in the second area 611B to be operated with the second sub-operation unit 3B. When a predetermined event is triggered, the switching means 84 switches the display area to the full screen area 61 that combines the first area 611A and the second area 611B. At the same time, the partition means 85 deletes the partition image. In this way, the image display device 100 of this embodiment has the same effects as the image display device 1 of the first embodiment.

[0095] The image display device 100 of this embodiment does not have a reading device 4, so the device itself can be made smaller. Furthermore, the image display device 100 of this embodiment has the operation unit 3 and the display unit 6 overlapped, so the device itself can be made even smaller. Therefore, the cost required for the device can be reduced.

[0096] <<Third Embodiment>> Next, a third embodiment of the image display device of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0097] 10 is a perspective view showing a schematic diagram of an image display device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The third embodiment will be described below, focusing on differences from the first embodiment described above, and a description of similarities will be omitted. Note that the same reference numerals are used to designate the same components as those in the first embodiment described above.

[0098] The image display device 200 of this embodiment differs from the game device 1 of the first embodiment in that the partitioning means 85 is not a partition image. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 10, in the image display device 200 of this embodiment, the partitioning means 85 is separate from the control unit 8 and is configured as a physical mechanism. That is, the partitioning means 85 has a partitioning member 851, a weight portion provided at the tip of the partitioning member 851, and a winding mechanism (not shown) provided at the base end of the partitioning member 851.

[0099] When a game image is displayed in the entire screen area 61, the partition member 851 is normally housed in a housing (not shown) provided in the upper joint 621 of the frame body 62. The length of the partition member 851 is formed to be approximately the same length as the members of the short sides of the frame body 62. The appearance of the partition member 851 is configured to be the same as the members of the short sides of the frame body 62. The weight portion may be, for example, a magnet, and connects the partition member 851 to the lower joint 621 of the frame body 62. The winding mechanism is housed in the housing and has the function of winding up the partition member 851.

[0100] When an event is triggered while the partition member 851 is housed in the housing section, the game processing means 82 instructs the weight portion to fall ( FIG. 10 ). The falling weight portion extends the partition member 851. Eventually, the weight portion reaches the lower joint portion 621 of the frame body 62 and is connected. In this way, the partition member 851 can separate the first area 611A from the second area 611B.

[0101] On the other hand, when an event is triggered and the winding mechanism is activated, the partition member 851 is wound up and the weight portion is housed in the housing portion of the upper joint portion 621. This allows the game image to be displayed in the entire screen area 61.

[0102] The image display device 200 of this embodiment separates the first area 611A and the second area 611B using a physical mechanism. Therefore, the appearance of the partition member 851 resembles the appearance of the first frame member 62A and the second frame member 62B. This gives the impression that the partition member 851 is part of the first frame member 62A and the second frame member 62B. The image display device 200 of this embodiment has the same effects as the image display device 1 of the first embodiment.

[0103] The image display device and its operation control method of the present invention have been described above based on preferred embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to these. The configuration of each part can be replaced with any configuration having a similar function. Furthermore, any other means or components may be added to the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention may be a combination of any two or more configurations (features) of the above-described embodiments.

[0104] 11 is a front view, a plan view, and a bottom view showing a game device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a back view and a left side view showing a game device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The game device is made up of a single game device, but can give the impression of being made up of two separate and independent game devices.

[0105] The present invention provides an image display device having a display unit that displays a predetermined image and an operation unit that receives operation input from a user. The display unit includes a first area and a second area. The operation unit includes a first operation unit provided corresponding to the first area and a second operation unit provided corresponding to the second area. The image display device further includes a partition means provided between the first area and the second area to separate the first area from the second area. This allows a single image display device to provide the same functions as multiple image display devices. Therefore, the present invention has industrial applicability.

Claims

1. An image display device having a display unit that displays a predetermined image and an operation unit that receives operation input from a user, wherein the display unit includes a first area and a second area, and the operation unit includes a first operation unit provided in correspondence with the first area and a second operation unit provided in correspondence with the second area, and further comprising a partition means provided between the first area and the second area to separate the first area from the second area.

2. An image display device according to claim 1, wherein the first area and the first operating section, and the second area and the second operating section are configured to be symmetrical with respect to the central axis of the partition means.

3. An image display device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said partition means is configured to be removed from between said first area and said second area when a predetermined event occurs.

4. An image display device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the partition means is a partition image that separates the first area from the second area.

5. The image display device according to claim 4, wherein the partition image includes the predetermined image.

6. An image display device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the display unit has a full screen area including the first area and the second area, and displays the predetermined image in the full screen area.

7. An image display device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the display unit has a rectangular frame surrounding the first area and the second area, and the partition means is configured to appear to be integrated with the frame.

8. The image display device according to claim 7, wherein the frame has a joint formed to be recessed inward.

9. An image display device as described in claim 7 or 8, wherein the frame body has a first frame member provided corresponding to a first operating section and a second frame member provided corresponding to a second operating section, one end and the other end of the first frame member are provided opposite each other, and one end and the other end of the second frame member are provided opposite each other.

10. An image display device as described in claim 9, wherein the partition means is formed to connect the one end and the other end of the first frame member, and is formed to connect the one end and the other end of the second frame member.

11. An image display device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first operation unit and the second operation unit are configured to be able to simultaneously receive the operation input from the player.

12. The image display device according to claim 6, further comprising switching means for switching the area in which the predetermined image is displayed between the first area and the entire screen area.

13. An image display device as described in claim 12, wherein the switching means switches the area in which the specified image is displayed between the second area and the full screen area, and the first area and the second area are configured to be able to display the specified image independently.

14. An image display device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the switching means simultaneously switches the area from the first area to the full screen area and switches the area from the second area to the full screen area.

15. A game device comprising: a first sub-image display device having a first display unit that displays a predetermined image and a first operation unit that receives operation input from the user; and a second sub-game device having a second display unit that displays the predetermined game image and a second operation unit that receives the operation input from the player, wherein the first display unit and the second display unit are configured as a single display surface; and the game device further comprises a partition means that is provided between the first display unit and the second display unit and separates the first display unit from the second display unit.

16. A method for controlling the operation of a game device, comprising the steps of: displaying a predetermined image in a first area and a second area of ​​a display unit; switching the area in which the predetermined image is displayed from the first area to the entire screen area including the first area and the second area when a predetermined event occurs; removing a partition means provided between the first area and the second area; and displaying the predetermined image in the entire screen area.