Protective member

Abstract

A protective member is configured to protect a game device having a first sensor which outputs in accordance with a target to be detected, or the game device and accessories thereof, in a state in which the game device is arranged in a first arrangement part in an outer packaging. The protective member has: a first portion to be used as a body part comprising a second arrangement part where the game device is arranged; a second portion to be used as a detection target part serving as a target to be detected by the first sensor of the game device arranged in the second arrangement part; and a third portion to be used as an operation part which, when operated by a user, moves the game device or the detection target such that output by the first sensor changes.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application is a continuation of International Patent Application No. PCT / JP2023 / 39652 filed on November 2, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a protective member.BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY

[0003] Conventionally known is a cushioning materials which are arranged around a projector inside a packaging box and used as a stand for the projector after being removed from the packaging box (for example, JP 2009-190748A).

[0004] The cushioning material described in JP 2009-190748A merely serves as a base for the projector, which is the contents of the packaging box, and there is room for improvement in terms of effective use of the protective member to protect the contents of the packaging box.

[0005] The present disclosure includes the following aspects.

[0006] (1) A protective member configured to protect a game device comprising a first sensor which outputs in accordance with a target to be detected, or the game device and accessories thereof, in a state in which the game device is arranged in a first arrangement part in an outer packaging, the protective member comprising:

[0007] a first portion to be used as a body part comprising a second arrangement part where the game device is arranged,

[0008] a second portion to be used as a detection target part serving as a target to be detected by the first sensor of the game device arranged in the second arrangement part, and

[0009] a third portion to be used as an operation part which, when operated by a user, moves the game device or the detection target such that output by the first sensor changes.

[0010] (2) The protective member according to above (1), further comprising an identifiable guide part configured to separate at least a part of at least one of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion from the protective member.

[0011] (3) The protective member according to above (2), wherein the guide part is a perforation.

[0012] (4) The protective member according to above (2) or (3), which is configured such that the game device can be arranged in the first arrangement part even after at least a part of at least one of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion is separated.

[0013] (5) The protective member according to any one of above (2)-(4), wherein the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion are configured such that the body part formed from the first portion, the detection target part formed from the second portion, and the operation part formed from the third portion can all be simultaneously accommodated in the outer packaging.

[0014] (6) The protective member according to any one of above (1)-(5), wherein the game device comprises a second sensor configured to detect movement of the game device, and

[0015] the protective member comprises a fourth portion to be used as a game device operation part which, when operated by a user, moves the game device.

[0016] (7) The protective member according to any one of above (1)-(6), wherein the second arrangement part is different from the first arrangement part.

[0017] (8) The protective member according to any one of above (1)-(7), wherein the first sensor is an optical sensor,

[0018] the body part comprises an encircling part configured to surround the first sensor when the game device is arranged in the second arrangement part, and

[0019] the detection target part comprises a marker configured to position in the encircling part when the body part and the detection target part are assembled.

[0020] (9) The protective member according to above (8), wherein the protective member is constituted by paperboard which has a white surface and which has a colored area on the white surface that is colored with ink containing a component which absorbs infrared light,

[0021] the detection target part comprises the white surface and the colored area, and

[0022] the marker is the white surface or the colored area.

[0023] (10) The protective member according to above (9), wherein the marker is provided in an area that does not appear on an outermost surface of the protective member.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a game device packaged inside a packaging box.

[0025] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the game device.

[0026] FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of electronic components of the game device.

[0027] FIG. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing a protective member in a state in which the game device is held, after removal from the packaging box.

[0028] FIG. 5 is a perspective view schematically showing the protective member from which the game device has been removed.

[0029] FIG. 6 is a perspective view schematically showing the protective member from which the game device has been removed.

[0030] FIG. 7 is a perspective view schematically showing a body part, a detection target part, and an operation part, which are formed from the protective member.

[0031] FIG. 8 is a perspective view schematically showing an assembly in which the parts formed from the protective member are assembled.

[0032] FIG. 9 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 8, schematically showing an assembly in which the parts formed from the protective member are assembled.DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0033] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that in the following description, identical constituent elements have been assigned the same reference numeral.Overall Configuration

[0034] The overall configuration of a packed state during shipment, etc., in which a game device 100 is packed in a packaging box 200, will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing the game device 100 packed in the packaging box 200. In the state shown in FIG. 1, a lid 202 of the packaging box 200 is open.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 1, during shipment, etc., of the game device 100, the game device 100 and accessories thereof are packaged in the packaging box 200 while protected by a protective member 10. In the present description, when the game device 100 is packaged in the packaging box 200 in a packed state during shipment, etc., the direction in which the game device 100 is arranged with respect to the protective member 10 is referred to as “upward,” and the direction opposite to “upward” is referred to as “downward.” Furthermore, when the game device 100 is packaged in the packaging box 200, the directions that are upward, downward, leftward, and rightward as viewed from the user when using the game device 100 are referred to as “rearward,”“frontward,”“leftward,” and “rightward,” respectively. However, the use of the packaging box 200, the game device 100, and the protective member 10 are not limited to these directions.Configuration of Game Device

[0036] Next, the configuration of the game device 100 packaged in the packaging box 200 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the game device 100, and FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of the electronic components of the game device 100. The game device 100 includes any device which has an infrared camera 131 and which is used to execute game applications, such as a game device which has a display 105, as well as a game controller which does not have a display 105, a smartphone, or a tablet terminal.

[0037] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the game device 100 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The game device 100 has an upper surface 111 including a display 105, a lower surface 112 provided on the side opposite the upper surface 111, and side surfaces 113 to 116 formed between the upper surface 111 and the lower surface 112 for connecting the upper surface 111 and the lower surface 112. The side surfaces 113 to 116 include a front side surface 113, a rear side surface 114, a left side surface 115, and a right side surface 116, which are positioned at the rear, front, left, and right, respectively, in the packed state shown in FIG. 1, and specifically, the packed state during shipment, etc. In the present embodiment, when a user plays a game, basically, the user holds the game device 100 with their left hand covering the left side surface 115 and their right hand covering the right side surface 116.

[0038] Though the game device 100 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape in the present embodiment, the game device 100 may have other shapes. For example, though the upper surface 111 and the lower surface 112 are rectangular in the present embodiment, they may have other shapes, such as a rounded rectangle or a square. Furthermore, when the upper surface 111 and the lower surface 112 are chamfered rectangles, the side surfaces 113 to 116 may be formed so as to be curved to match this shape. Furthermore, the side surfaces 113 to 116 may be formed so as to be curved in the up-down direction.

[0039] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 3, the game device 100 has a plurality of electronic components. Specifically, in the present embodiment, the game device 100 has a display 105, a speaker 106, an input part 120, an infrared camera 131, a light-emitting part 132, an acceleration sensor 133, and a processing part 140. Additionally, the game device 100 has a battery (not shown) for supplying power to the display 105, the processing part 140, etc., as electronic components.

[0040] The display 105 is communicatively connected to the processing part 140 and displays images in accordance with signals from the processing part 140. The display 105 displays images in accordance with a computer program executed by the processing part 140. The display 105 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an EL (Electro Luminescence) display, or a plasma display. The display 105 is provided on the upper surface 111 of the game device 100.

[0041] The speaker 106 is a device which is connected to the processing part 140 and which is for generating sound in accordance with signals from the processing part 140. The speaker 106 generates sound in accordance with a computer program executed by the processing part 140. In the present embodiment, the speaker 106 is housed inside the game device 100.

[0042] The input part 120 is used by the user to perform input. The input part 120 is operated by the user, detects input operations by the user, and sends input signals to the processing part 140 in accordance with the detected input operations. The input part 120 is used, for example, to perform input operations for progressing a game application executed by the processing part 140, or input operations for causing processing related to the operating system to be executed.

[0043] The input part 120 has a first input part 121 provided on the upper surface 111 on the left side of the display 105, and a second input part 122 provided on the upper surface 111 on the right side of the display 105. In the present embodiment, the first input part 121 is a joystick, and the second input part 122 is buttons. However, the first input part 121 and the second input part 122 may be any type of input part, such as buttons, selector switches, levers, joysticks, or slide sticks. Furthermore, the input part 120 may be provided on one of the side surfaces 113 to 116 in addition to or in place of the upper surface 111.

[0044] The infrared camera 131 is an example of a first sensor that provides an output in accordance with the detected object. The infrared camera 131 outputs infrared images of a capture target area. In particular, the infrared camera 131 converts the infrared light received by each element of a two-dimensional detector into an electrical signal, thereby outputting a two-dimensional infrared image. The infrared camera 131 is electrically connected to the processing part 140 and outputs the captured two-dimensional infrared images to the processing part 140. Each time an image is generated, the infrared camera 131 outputs the generated image to the processing part 140. By analyzing the images output by the infrared camera 131, the shape, movement, deformation, etc., of the object in the capture target area can be detected. Thus, the infrared camera 131 can detect movement and deformation of the object relative to the infrared camera 131.

[0045] The light-emitting part 132 is a light emitter for emitting infrared rays, and is, for example, an infrared LED (Light Emitting Diode). The light-emitting part 132 emits infrared rays toward the area serving as the imaging target for the infrared camera 131. The infrared rays emitted from the light-emitting part 132 are reflected by objects positioned within the target area, and the reflected infrared rays are received by the infrared camera 131, whereby an infrared image of the objects positioned within the target area is acquired.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 2, a cover 134 for covering the infrared camera 131 and the light-emitting part 132 is provided on the right side surface 116 of the game device 100. The infrared camera 131 and the light-emitting part 132 are arranged inside this cover 134. Thus, the infrared camera 131 captures infrared images of the area positioned on the right side of the game device 100. Note that the infrared camera 131 and the light-emitting part 132 may be arranged anywhere on the game device 100 as long as they can capture images of an arbitrary area around the game device 100.

[0047] In the present embodiment, the infrared camera 131 is used as the first sensor that provides an output in accordance with the detected object. However, any sensor other than the infrared camera 131, such as an optical sensor (including a visible light camera in addition to an infrared camera), an ultrasonic sensor, or radar, may be used as long as it can output in accordance with the detected object.

[0048] The acceleration sensor 133 is an example of a second sensor for detecting movement of the game device 100. The acceleration sensor 133 detects acceleration of the game device 100. The acceleration sensor 133 is electrically connected to the processing part 140 and outputs signals related to acceleration of the game device 100 to the processing part 140. The acceleration sensor 133 may be a sensor of any type, such as a piezo-resistive type. The acceleration sensor 133 is provided inside the game device 100. Note that any sensor which can detect movement of the game device 100, such as a gyro sensor, may be used in place of or in addition to the acceleration sensor 133.

[0049] The processing part 140 transmits control signals to the display 105, speaker 106, etc., based on signals received from the input part 120, the infrared camera 131, and the acceleration sensor 133, in accordance with the computer program being executed. The processing part 140 has a communication interface 141, a memory 142, and a processor 143. The communication interface 141 is a circuit for connecting the processing part 140 to the other electronic components of the game device 100. The memory 142 is a storage medium for storing data, such as computer programs executed by the processor 143 and various data used by the computer programs being executed. The processor 143 performs various processes in accordance with the computer programs stored in the memory 142, based on signals received from the input part 120, the infrared camera 131, and the acceleration sensor 133.Configuration of Packaging Box

[0050] Next, the configuration of the packaging box 200 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. The packaging box 200 is made of cardboard and assembled into a box shape by folding and gluing. In the present embodiment, the packaging box 200 is formed as an folder-type box with tuck-in lid (N-type box). As shown in FIG. 1, the packaging box 200 is formed such that the length thereof in the left-right direction is longer than the length thereof in the front-to-back direction.

[0051] The packaging box 200 has a box body part 201 and a lid 202. The box body part 201 is formed in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped box having an open top. When the game device 100 is packaged, the lid 202 is closed in a state in which the game device 100 and the protective member 10 are arranged inside the box body part 201. Furthermore, by opening the lid 202 from the box body part 201 as shown in FIG. 1, the user can remove the protective member 10, the game device 100 held in the protective member 10, and the accessories thereof, which are the contents of the packaging box 200. The outer surface of the packaging box 200 may be treated with a water-resistant coating such as wax.

[0052] Though the packaging box 200 is formed as an N-type box in the present embodiment, it may be a box of any type, such as a lidded box or a sleeved box. The packaging box 200 may be formed of any material other than paperboard, such as corrugated cardboard, as long as it can be formed into a shape, for example, a box shape, which can accommodate the game device 100 and the protective member 10. In place of the packaging box 200, a ring-shaped body which does not have left or right sides and which surrounds the protective member 10 over its entire circumference during packaging may be used. Thus, any outer packaging may be used in place of the packaging box 200, as long as the game device 100 and the protective member 10 can be accommodated.Configuration of Protective member

[0053] Next, the configuration of the protective member 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. The protective member 10 is a member for protecting the game device 100 and accessories thereof during shipment, etc., of the game device 100. The protective member 10 may be a so-called inner insert or inner partition. In the present embodiment, the protective member 10 is fitted into the packaging box 200. The protective member 10 secures the game device 100 and accessories thereof, which are the contents of the packaging box 200, to the packaging box 200 and provides cushioning for the game device 100 and accessories thereof, thereby protecting the game device 100 and accessories thereof. Additionally, in the present embodiment, the protective member 10 arranges the numerous components (game device 100 and accessories thereof) in the packaging box 200 in an orderly manner, thereby improving the appearance of the inside of the packaging box 200 when the packaging box 200 is opened.

[0054] In the present embodiment, the protective member 10 is made of paperboard having a white painted surface, and is assembled into a specific shape by folding and gluing. However, the protective member 10 may be made of any material other than paperboard, such as corrugated cardboard or polystyrene foam, as long as it can protect the game device 100. In the present embodiment, the protective member 10 may be painted in a color other than white, or may be formed without being painted so that the color of the material is directly visible on the surface.

[0055] FIG. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing the protective member 10 in a state in which the game device 100 is held, after removal from the packaging box 200. FIGS. 5 and 6 are perspective views schematically showing the protective member 10 when the game device 100 has been removed. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the protective member 10 with left and right reversed relative to FIG. 5.

[0056] As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the protective member 10 has a shape substantially similar to the internal space of the box body part 201 of the packaging box 200 so as to fit within the internal space of the box body part 201. Thus, in the present embodiment, the protective member 10 is made of paperboard assembled such that the external shape thereof is substantially a rectangular parallelepiped. The protective member 10 has an upper surface 11 positioned on the lid 202 side of the packaging box 200 during shipment, etc., a lower surface 12 provided on the opposite side of the upper surface 11, and side surfaces 13 to 16 formed between the upper surface 11 and the lower surface 12 for connecting the upper surface 11 and the lower surface 12. The side surfaces 13 to 16 include a front side surface 13, a rear side surface 14, a left side surface 15, and a right side surface 16 which correspond to the front side surface, rear side surface, left side surface, and right side surface of the packaging box 200, respectively, in a packed state during shipment, etc.

[0057] As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, in the present embodiment, the protective member 10 has a first recess 21, a second recess 22, a third recess 23, a first guide part 24, a second guide part 26, and a through hole 28.

[0058] The first recess 21 is formed in the upper surface 11 of the protective member 10 so as to be recessed downward from the upper surface 11 of the protective member 10. The first recess 21 is formed such that the outer shape thereof is substantially the same as the outer shape of the game device 100. In particular, the first recess 21 is formed such that the longitudinal (left-right) length thereof is substantially the same as the longitudinal (left-right) length of the game device 100. The first recess 21 is also formed such that the lateral (front-rear) length thereof is substantially the same as the lateral (front-rear) length of the game device 100. Additionally, the first recess 21 is formed such that the depth (vertical length) thereof is longer than the thickness (vertical length) of the game device 100. The first recess 21 is also formed such that the depth (vertical length) thereof is equal to or greater than the thickness of the game device 100 plus the amount of protrusion of the first input part 121 or the second input part 122 from the upper surface 111 of the game device 100.

[0059] The first recess 21 is arranged so as to be spaced apart from the front side surface 13, the rear side surface 14, the left side surface 15, and the right side surface 16 of the protective member 10. Thus, there is a certain amount of length between the side surfaces of the first recess 21 in the front-rear and left-right directions and the front side surface 13, the rear side surface 14, the left side surface 15, and the right side surface 16 of the protective member 10.

[0060] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, the game device 100 is arranged in the first recess 21 configured as described above in a packed state during shipment, etc. Thus, the first recess 21 functions as a first arrangement part in which the game device 100 is arranged in the packaging box 200 in a packed state during shipment, etc. The depth (vertical length) of the first recess 21 is equal to or greater than the thickness of the game device 100 plus the thickness of the first input part 121 or the second input part 122. Thus, when the game device 100 is arranged in the first recess 21, the entirety of the game device 100 fits into the first recess 21. As a result, in a packed state during shipment, etc., the game device 100 is held by the protective member 10 so as not to move within the packaging box 200. Additionally, in a packed state during shipping, etc., the protective member 10 is positioned between the side surfaces 113 to 116 of the game device 100 and the box body part 201 of the packaging box 200 in the front-rear and left-right directions of the game device 100, and absorbs any impact to the game device 100 when an impact is applied to the packaging box 200. Thus, the protective member 10 protects the game device 100.

[0061] The second recess 22 is also formed in the upper surface 11 of the protective member 10 so as to be recessed downward from the upper surface 11 of the protective member 10. The second recess 22 is formed such that the length thereof in the left-right direction is shorter than that of the first recess 21 in the left-right direction. Additionally, the second recess 22 is formed such that the length thereof in the front-rear direction is longer than that of the first recess 21 in the front-rear direction. In particular, in the present embodiment, the second recess 22 is formed so as to extend over the entire length of the protective member 10 in the front-rear direction. Additionally, in the present embodiment, the second recess 22 is formed such that the depth (length in the up-down direction) thereof is longer than that of the first recess 21.

[0062] The second recess 22 configured in this manner provides a recessed portion from the upper surface 11 of the protective member 10 around the game device 100 in a packed state during shipment, etc. As a result, the user can touch the side surfaces of the game device 100 in a packed state during shipment, etc., and thus, can grasp the game device 100. Accordingly, the user can remove the game device 100 from the protective member 10.

[0063] The third recess 23 is formed in the front side surface 13 of the protective member 10 so as to be recessed rearward from the front side surface 13 of the protective member 10. The third recess 23 is formed so that the game device 100 can be inserted from the side of the right side surface 116 of the game device 100. Thus, the length of the third recess 23 in the left-right direction is approximately the same as or slightly longer than the length of the game device 100 in the short side direction (front-rear direction). The length of the third recess 23 in the up-down direction is approximately the same as or slightly longer than the thickness of the game device 100 plus the thickness of the first input part 121 or the second input part 122. The depth (front-rear length) of the third recess 23 is shorter than the length of the game device 100 in the long side direction (left-right direction).

[0064] The bottom surface (that is, the rear side surface) of the third recess 23 has an opening (not shown) near the center in the left-right direction. This opening communicates with an enclosed space 47, which will be described later. When the game device 100 is inserted into the third recess 23, this opening is arranged at a position corresponding to the position of the infrared camera 131.

[0065] As will be described later, the game device 100 is arranged in the third recess configured in this manner when the user plays with the protective member 10 after removing the game device 100 and accessories thereof from the packaging box 200 and the protective member 10. Thus, the third recess 23 functions as a second arrangement part in which the game device 100 is arranged when the user plays with the removed protective member 10. In the present embodiment, the third recess 23 is a recess different from the first recess 21, and thus, the second arrangement part is a location different from the first arrangement part.

[0066] The first guide part 24 is a user-identifiable guide for separating a part (second portion 32) of the protective member 10 from the protective member 10. In the present embodiment, the first guide part 24 is a perforation. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the first guide part 24 is provided on the right side surface 16 of the protective member 10. In particular, in the present embodiment, the first guide part 24 is formed as a perforation extending in the front-rear and up-down directions such that the portion (second portion 32) separated by the first guide part 24 has a rectangular shape. Additionally, an opening formation guide 25 for further separating a part within the portion (second portion 32) separated by the first guide part 24 and forming an opening 45 in this portion is provided within the first guide part 24. In the present embodiment, two opening formation guides 25 are arranged one above the other within the perforation constituting the first guide part 24. The first guide part 24 may be any guide other than a perforation, such as a cutting line, which can be identified by the user for separating the second portion 32.

[0067] The second guide part 26 is a user-identifiable guide for separating a part (third portion 33) of the protective member 10 from the protective member 10. In the present embodiment, the second guide part 26 is also a perforation. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the second guide part 26 is provided on the left side surface 15 of the protective member 10. In particular, in the present embodiment, the second guide part 26 is formed as a perforation extending in the front-rear and up-down directions such that the portion (third portion 33) separated by the second guide part 26 is rectangular. Furthermore, fold lines 27 for folding the portion (third portion 33) separated by the second guide part 26 are provided within the second guide part 26. The fold lines 27 are formed so as to extend in the front-rear direction at equal intervals from each other in the up-down direction. Note that the second guide part 26 may be any guide other than a perforation, such as a cutting line, which can be identified by the user for separating the third portion 33.

[0068] In the present embodiment, the remaining portions of the protective member 10, excluding the second portion 32 separated by the first guide part 24 and the third portion 33 separated by the second guide part 26, constitute the first portion 31. Thus, in the present embodiment, the protective member 10 is constituted by the first portion 31, the second portion 32, and the third portion 33.

[0069] The through hole 28 is a hole for inserting a detection target part 42 formed by the second portion 32 separated from the protective member 10. In the present embodiment, the through hole 28 is provided in the second recess 22. In particular, the through hole 28 is arranged closer to the rear side surface 14 of the protective member 10 than to the front side surface 13. Thus, the through hole 28 is arranged distant from the front side surface 13 in which the third recess 23 is provided. Additionally, the through hole 28 is arranged so as to be positioned in the front-to-rear direction of the third recess 23 when viewed from above. As a result, when the game device 100 is arranged in the third recess 23, the through hole 28 is arranged so as to face the infrared camera 131 when viewed from above.

[0070] In the present embodiment, accessories of the game device 100, such as an AC adapter, a connection cable, and an instruction manual, are also housed in the packaging box 200. The accessories of the game device 100 are held inside the protective member 10. These accessories may be housed directly inside the protective member 10, or may be held in a protective member separate from the protective member 10 holding the game device 100.Usage Mode of Protective Member

[0071] Next, the usage mode of the protective member 10 when a user plays with the protective member 10 after removing the game device 100 and accessories thereof from the packaging box 200 and the protective member 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. 7 is a perspective view schematically showing a body part 41, a detection target part 42, and an operation part 43 formed from the protective member 10. FIG. 8 is a perspective view schematically showing an assembly in which the parts formed from the protective member 10 are assembled.

[0072] In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the body part 41 is formed from the first portion 31 of the protective member 10. Specifically, the body part 41 is formed when the second portion 32 is separated from the protective member 10 by the first guide part 24 and the third portion 33 is separated by the second guide part 26. Thus, the body part 41 is identical to the first portion 31, and has the same shape as the protective member 10 except that the second portion 32 and the third portion 33 have been separated therefrom. From the foregoing, in the present embodiment, the first portion 31 of the protective member 10 can be deemed to be the portion of the protective member 10 which will be used as the body part 41.

[0073] Thus, the body part 41 has the first recess 21, the second recess 22, and the third recess 23. Therefore, the body part 41 has the first arrangement part in which the game device 100 is arranged inside the packaging box 200 in a packed state during shipment, etc., and the second arrangement part in which the game device 100 is arranged when the user removes the protective member 10 and plays with it. Thus, even after the second portion 32 and the third portion 33 have been separated from the protective member 10, the game device 100 can be arranged in the first recess (first arrangement part) of the body part 41.

[0074] Additionally, the body part 41 has a circular through hole 28. The body part 41 also has an opening 44 formed by separating the second portion 32 with the first guide part 24, and an opening (not shown) formed by separating the third portion 33 with the second guide part 26.

[0075] The body part 41 is formed so as to have an enclosed space 47 behind the third recess 23 and below the through hole 28, which is closed except for the opening formed in the bottom surface of the third recess 23 and the through hole 28. This enclosed space 47 is formed so as to surround the infrared camera 131 of the game device 100 when the game device 100 is arranged in the third recess 23 such that the right side surface 116 of the game device 100 is positioned in the third recess 23. Thus, this enclosed space 47 functions as an encircling part surrounding the infrared camera 131 when the game device 100 is arranged in the third recess 23.

[0076] Additionally, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, a detection target part 42 is formed from the second portion 32 of the protective member 10 separated from the protective member 10. The detection target part 42 is an object to be detected by the infrared camera 131 of the game device 100 arranged in the third recess 23 (second arrangement part).

[0077] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the second portion 32 of the protective member 10 is rectangular. The detection target part 42 is formed by rolling the second portion 32, which has been separated from the protective member 10 by the first guide part 24, into a cylindrical shape. In particular, in the present embodiment, the detection target part 42 is formed such that the inner surface of the second portion 32 (the surface that does not appear as the outer surface of the protective member 10) becomes the outer surface of the detection target part 42.

[0078] The detection target part 42 formed in this manner has two openings 45 and a plurality of markers 46. The openings 45 are formed by separating parts of the second portion 32 using the opening formation guides 25. The two openings 45 have the same rectangular shape and are arranged in positions facing each other in the detection target part 42.

[0079] The markers 46 are colored areas formed by painting black ink on the white surface of the detection target part 42, which is made of white paperboard. The black ink contains a component which absorbs infrared light, such as carbon. In the present embodiment, the plurality of markers 46 are arranged circumferentially spaced apart on the white outer surface of the detection target part 42. In the present embodiment, each marker 46 has approximately the same circumferential length. However, only one marker 46 may be provided on the detection target part 42. In this case, the marker 46 may be formed into, for example, a shape (for example, triangular) having a height (vertical length) which varies in the circumferential direction. The markers 46 may be formed in a color other than black as long as a component which absorbs infrared light is contained thereby. Furthermore, a white portion of the detection target part 42 which is not part of the colored area may be used as a marker. As an example, a portion of the white detection target part may be surrounded with black ink, and the surrounded white portion may be used as the marker. Specifically, a portion which reflects infrared light may be used as the marker. However, it is necessary that the marker 46 have a shape and color which enables movement of the detection target part 42 to be detected by the first sensor including the infrared camera 131.

[0080] Furthermore, the marker 46 is provided on the inner surface of the second portion 32 (a surface which does not appear as the outer surface of the protective member 10) before the second portion 32 is separated from the protective member 10. Further, as described above, the detection target part 42 is formed such that the inner surface of the second portion 32 becomes the outer surface of the detection target part 42, and the marker 46 is arranged on the outer surface of the detection target part 42.

[0081] In the present embodiment, the marker 46 is formed by black painting. However, the marker 46 may be formed by any method other than painting, such as by attaching a black sticker, as long as a marker of a color different from white can be provided on a white surface.

[0082] Further, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the operation part 43 is formed from the third portion 33 of the protective member 10 separated from the protective member 10. When operated by a user, the operation part 43 moves the detection target part 42 so that the output from the infrared camera 131 changes.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 6, the third portion 33 of the protective member 10 is rectangular and has three fold lines 27 extending in the longitudinal direction. The operation part 43 is formed by bending the third portion 33, which has been separated from the protective member 10 by the second guide part 26, along the fold lines 27 into a prism shape. Thus, the operation part 43 is formed in a prism shape. In the present embodiment, the operation part 43 is formed such that the cross-sectional shape in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is complementary to the cross-sectional shape of the opening 45 formed in the detection target part 42 and is slightly smaller than the opening 45. As a result, the operation part 43 can be inserted into the opening 45 and extend through the detection target part 42 through the two openings 45.

[0084] Next, the assembly of the body part 41, the detection target part 42, and the operation part 43 configured as above will be described with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the body part 41, the detection target part 42, and the operation part 43 in an assembled state.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 8, in a state in which the body part 41, the detection target part 42, and the operation part 43 are assembled (hereinafter simply referred to as the “assembled state”), the detection target part 42 is inserted into the through hole 28 of the body part 41. In the present embodiment, the detection target part 42 is inserted such that the marker 46 passes through the through hole 28 and is positioned in the enclosed space 47 of the body part 41. As a result, in the present embodiment, when the game device 100 is arranged in the third recess 23 (second arrangement part), the detection target part 42 is positioned in the front-to-rear direction of the game device 100. In particular, in the present embodiment, when the game device 100 is arranged in the third recess 23 by inserting the game device 100 into the third recess 23 from the right side surface 116 side, the marker 46 of the detection target part 42 is positioned within the area serving as the imaging target of the infrared camera 131 of the game device 100. Additionally, in the assembled state, as shown in FIG. 8, the operation part 43 is arranged so as to be inserted into the opening 45 of the detection target part 42 and extend through the detection target part 42.

[0086] In this assembled state, when the user grasps the operation part 43 and operates the operation part 43 so as to rotate the detection target part 42, the detection target part 42 rotates. When the detection target part 42 rotates, the marker 46 provided on the detection target part 42 moves in the circumferential direction. As described above, the marker 46 is positioned within the area serving as the capture target of the infrared camera 131 of the game device 100 arranged in the third recess 23, and thus, movement of the marker 46 is detected by the infrared camera 131. Specifically, when the user operates the operation part 43, the marker 46 of the detection target part 42, which is linked to the operation part 43, moves, and the relative change in the movement of the marker 46 is detected by the infrared camera 131, resulting in a change in the output of the infrared camera 131.

[0087] In the present embodiment, the processing part 140 of the game device 100 transmits control signals to the display 105, speaker 106, etc., in accordance with the computer program being executed based on the signal received from the infrared camera 131. Thus, when the user operates the operation part 43 to change the output of the infrared camera 131, the processing part 140 changes the image displayed by the display 105 or the sound generated by the speaker 106 in accordance with the computer program being executed.

[0088] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, after the body part 41, the detection target part 42, and the operation part 43 are assembled as described above, the body part 41, the detection target part 42, and the operation part 43 can all be housed in the packaging box 200 simultaneously. Specifically, in the present embodiment, the body part 41, the detection target part 42, and the operation part 43 are configured such that they can all be housed in the packaging box 200 simultaneously. Specifically, for example, the body part 41 is housed in the packaging box 200 in the same manner as the protective member 10 from which the second portion 32 and the third portion 33 shown in FIG. 1 are not separated. Furthermore, the detection target part 42 and the operation part 43 are housed inside the body part 41 (for example, inside the opening 44). In addition to these, the game device 100 may also be housed in the packaging box 200.Effects

[0089] In the protective member 10 according to the embodiment described above, a part thereof is used as the detection target part 42, which is the object to be detected by the infrared camera 131, and another part is used as the operation part 43 for moving the detection target part such that the output of the infrared camera 131 changes when operated by the user. As a result, when the user operates the operation part 43 formed from the protective member 10 for protecting the game device 100 or the like in a packed state during shipment, etc., the output of the infrared camera 131 changes, and accordingly, the image displayed by the display 105 or the sound generated by the speaker 106 can be changed. Thus, the protective member 10 according to the present embodiment can be utilized in a new manner after being removed from the packaging box 200.

[0090] Furthermore, the protective member 10 of the embodiment described above has the first guide part 24 and the second guide part 26, which are guides for separating the second portion 32 and the third portion 33 from the protective member 10. As a result, the members which will form the detection target part 42 and the operation part 43 can be made into a part of the protective member 10, and it is not necessary to prepare separate members at the packaging stage. As a result, the degree of freedom in design of the protective member 10 for protecting the game device 100 and accessories thereof is increased. In particular, since the first guide part 24 and the second guide part 26 are perforations in the embodiment described above, the user can separate the second portion 32 and the third portion 33 from the protective member 10 without using a tool such as scissors.

[0091] Furthermore, in the protective member 10 of the embodiment described above, even after the second portion 32 and the third portion 33 are separated, the game device 100 can be arranged in the first recess 21 (first arrangement part) remaining in the body part 41. As a result, even after the removed protective member 10 can be used for play, the protective member 10 (particularly the body part 41) can continue to be used to protect the game device 100 when storing the game device 100 in the packaging box 200.

[0092] Additionally, in the embodiment described above, the first portion 31, the second portion 32, and the third portion 33 are configured such that the body part 41, the detection target part 42, and the operation part 43 formed from these portions can all be housed simultaneously in the packaging box 200. As a result, even after assembling the body part 41, the detection target part 42, and the operation part 43, the user can store these members in the packaging box 200.

[0093] In the embodiment described above, the game device 100 is arranged in the first recess 21 in a packed state during shipment, etc., and is arranged in the third recess 23 when the user plays using the game device 100 after removal. Thus, the arrangement part (first arrangement part) of the game device 100 in a packed state during shipment, etc., differs from the arrangement part (second arrangement part) of the game device 100 when the user plays using the game device 100 after removal. As a result, the arrangement part of the game device 100 when the game device 100 is played after being removed can be freely set, thereby increasing the degree of freedom in design.

[0094] Additionally, in the embodiment described above, the enclosed space 47 (encircling part) is arranged within the body part 41 so as to surround the infrared camera 131, and the marker 46 is arranged within this enclosed space 47. As a result, the area around the marker 46 is prevented from being illuminated by external light, and the accuracy with which the marker 46 is detected by optical sensors such as the infrared camera 131 can be improved. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the protective member 10 is formed of paperboard having a white surface, and the black marker 46 is formed on the white surface. As a result, the accuracy with which the marker 46 is detected by optical sensors such as the infrared camera 131 can be improved. Furthermore, the marker 46 is provided in an area which does not appear on the outer surface of the protective member 10. As a result, when the packaging box 200 is opened in a packed state during shipment, etc., or when the protective member 10 is removed from the packaging box 200, the marker 46 is not visible to the user, and the user is prevented from feeling uncomfortable when the black marker comes into view when the packaging box 200 is opened in a packed state during shipment, etc.Modification

[0095] In the embodiment described above, the detection target part 42 and the operation part 43 are formed as separate members. However, the detection target part 42 and the operation part 43 may be formed as one and the same member.

[0096] FIG. 9 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 8, schematically showing an assembly in which the parts formed from the protective member 10 are assembled. In the modification shown in FIG. 9, the detection target part 42’ is formed from a part of the protective member 10 and is formed in a prism shape. A marker (not shown) extending in the circumferential direction is provided on the lower portion of the detection target part 42’. In the modification shown in FIG. 9, the body part 41 has a rectangular through hole 28’, and the detection target part 42’ is inserted into this through hole 28’. In the assembly formed in this manner, when the user moves the detection target part 42’ up and down, the marker provided on the detection target part 42’ also moves up and down, and the up and down movement of this marker can be detected by the infrared camera 131 of the game device 100.

[0097] In this case, the detection target part 42’ also functions as the operation part since, when operated by the user, the detection target part 42’ moves in a manner which changes the output of the infrared camera 131. Thus, in the modification shown in FIG. 9, the detection target part 42’ and the operation part are the same member, and thus, the second portion to be used as the detection target part 42’ and the third portion to be used as the operation part are the same portion of the protective member 10.

[0098] Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, when the operation part 43 is operated by the user, the detection target part 42 moves relative to the game device 100. However, the operation part 43 may be formed such that when operated by the user, the game device 100 moves relative to the detection target part 42. The operation part 43 is formed as, for example, a lever, and is formed such that operating this lever moves the game device 100. In this case, when the operation part 43 is operated by the user, the game device 100 moves relative to the detection target part 42, and the output by the infrared camera 131 changes.

[0099] Additionally, when the operation part 43 is operated by the user, the game device 100 moves, and the output from the acceleration sensor 133 also changes. By detecting the posture, orientation, or movement of the game device 100 using the acceleration sensor 133 in this manner, the image displayed by the display 105 or the sound generated by the speaker 106 can be changed in accordance with the changes in the posture, orientation, or movement of the game device 100. In this case, the operation part 43 also functions as a game device operation part for moving the game device 100 when operated by the user.

[0100] Alternatively, the protective member 10 may further have a portion (fourth portion) which is used as a game device operation part for moving the game device 100 when operated by the user. The game device operation part may be formed as, for example, a handle for holding the game device 100. The game device operation part may also be formed as the same member as the body part 41 or the operation part 43, and in this case, the fourth portion of the protective member is the same portion as the first portion 31 or the third portion 33 of the protective member 10. When the posture, orientation, or movement of the game device 100 changes due to the game device operation part formed in this manner, the image displayed by the display 105 or the sound generated by the speaker 106 can be changed in accordance with such change. Note that the protective member 10 may have only the fourth portion forming the game device operation part, and the first portion 31, the second portion 32, and the third portion 33 which form the body part 41, the detection target part 42, and the operation part 43 may be omitted.

[0101] In the embodiment described above, only one protective member 10 is contained in the packaging box 200 during shipment, etc., of the game device 100. However, a plurality of protective members 10 may be contained in the packaging box 200 during shipment, etc., of the game device 100. In this case, for example, the game device 100 may be held by combining the plurality of protective members 10.

[0102] Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the body part 41, the detection target part 42, and the operation part 43 are all formed by being separated from the protective member 10 holding the game device 100 in a packed state during shipment, etc. However, at least one of the body part 41, the detection target part 42, and the operation part 43 may be formed from a protective member different from the protective member 10 holding the game device 100 in a packed state during shipment, etc. Specifically, for example, one of the body part 41, the detection target part 42, and the operation part 43 may be formed from a protective member for protecting an accessory of the game device 100, such as an AC adapter. In particular, when none of the body part 41, the detection target part 42, and the operation part 43 are formed by being separated from the protective member 10 holding the game device 100 in a packed state during shipment, etc., for example, when the detection target part 42 and the operation part 43 are formed from a protective member different from the protective member 10, the guide parts 24, 26 may not be formed on the protective member 10. Furthermore, when the detection target part 42 is formed from a protective member different from the protective member 10, and this different protective member is housed inside the protective member 10 holding the game device 100 in a packed state during shipment, etc., the marker 46 may be provided on the outer surface of this different protective member. Even in this case, the marker does not appear on the surface positioned outermost of the multiple protective members, and specifically, on the surface of the protective member 10 holding the game device 100 in a packed state during shipment, etc.

[0103] In the embodiment described above, the protective member 10 is formed of paperboard having a surface painted white. However, the entire surface of the protective member 10 need not be painted white, and the protective member 10 may be formed so that only the area around the marker 46 has a white surface.

[0104] In the embodiment described above, the game device 100 is arranged in the first recess 21 in a packed state during shipment, etc., and when the user plays using the game device 100 with using the protective member 10 after removal, the game device 100 is arranged in the third recess 23. However, the protective member 10 may be formed so that the game device 100 is arranged in the first recess 21 even when the user plays using the game device 100 with using the protective member 10 after removal (and specifically, such that the first arrangement part and the second arrangement part are the same).

[0105] In the embodiment described above, the first recess 21 is formed in the upper surface 11 of the protective member 10, and in a packed state during shipment, etc., the game device 100 is arranged in this first recess 21. However, another protective member may be provided on the upper surface 11 of the protective member 10 holding the game device 100 in a packed state during shipment, etc.

[0106] Though the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes can be made within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A protective member configured to protect a game device comprising a first sensor which outputs in accordance with a target to be detected, or the game device and accessories thereof, in a state in which the game device is arranged in a first arrangement part in an outer packaging, the protective member comprising: a first portion to be used as a body part comprising a second arrangement part where the game device is arranged, a second portion to be used as a detection target part serving as a target to be detected by the first sensor of the game device arranged in the second arrangement part, and a third portion to be used as an operation part which, when operated by a user, moves the game device or the detection target such that output by the first sensor changes.

2. The protective member according to claim 1, further comprising an identifiable guide part configured to separate at least a part of at least one of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion from the protective member.

3. The protective member according to claim 2, wherein the guide part is a perforation.

4. The protective member according to claim 2, which is configured such that the game device can be arranged in the first arrangement part even after at least a part of at least one of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion is separated.

5. The protective member according to claim 2, wherein the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion are configured such that the body part formed from the first portion, the detection target part formed from the second portion, and the operation part formed from the third portion can all be simultaneously accommodated in the outer packaging.

6. The protective member according to claim 1, wherein the game device comprises a second sensor configured to detect movement of the game device, and the protective member comprises a fourth portion to be used as a game device operation part which, when operated by a user, moves the game device.

7. The protective member according to claim 1, wherein the second arrangement part is different from the first arrangement part.

8. The protective member according to claim 1, wherein the first sensor is an optical sensor, the body part comprises an encircling part configured to surround the first sensor when the game device is arranged in the second arrangement part, and the detection target part comprises a marker configured to position in the encircling part when the body part and the detection target part are assembled.

9. The protective member according to claim 8, wherein the protective member is constituted by paperboard which has a white surface and which has a colored area on the white surface that is colored with ink containing a component which absorbs infrared light,the detection target part comprises the white surface and the colored area, andthe marker is the white surface or the colored area.

10. The protective member according to claim 9, wherein the marker is provided in an area that does not appear on an outermost surface of the protective member.

Images