JPH0768053A - Video game consoles and video game consoles - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] [Purpose] Extend the functions of video game consoles and contribute to improving their operating rates. (EN) One or more external devices of a remote control type can be remotely controlled more easily by using a video game machine. [Structure] A cassette 1 for a video game machine is provided with a transmitter 7 for transmitting an infrared signal and a data processor 6 for generating control data. Attach the cassette 1 for the video game console to the main body 2 of the video game console,
Connect set 3. The operation support screen data is displayed on the screen 34 of the TV set 3 to support the operation, and an operation command signal is generated by operating the operation unit 21 of the video game machine body 2. The data processing unit 6 processes the operation command signal to generate control data, and the transmitting unit 7 transmits an infrared signal to the receiving unit 8 of the traveling toy 4 to remotely operate the traveling toy 4.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a TV game machine cassette attached to a TV game machine body connected to an image display device such as a TV set, a VTR set, or a screen monitor, and more particularly to an infrared ray use cassette. The present invention relates to a cassette for a video game machine having an additional function.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art With the recent development of video game consoles and the enhancement of their software cassettes for video game consoles, the popularity of video game consoles has increased significantly. When a game is played using such a video game machine, the main body of the video game machine is a TV set or a VTR.
It is connected to an image display device such as a set or a screen monitor, and a cassette for a video game machine is inserted into a cassette insertion portion provided in the main body of the video game machine.

In this case, the video game data is stored in the video game machine cassette, and the video game data is output by the main body of the video game machine.
A game image and sound are provided to a TV set, a VTR set, or an image display device such as a screen monitor connected to the main body of the video game machine. And
By operating various operation units provided on the main body of the video game console with respect to the game images and sounds on the image display device provided in this way, game operation input can be performed and the game can be developed. It has become.

In addition, among image display devices such as a TV set, a VTR set, and a screen monitor, from the viewpoint of improving operability, there is a type that is remotely operated by a remote operation device generally called a remote controller. is increasing.
That is, such a remote control type image display device transmits an infrared signal from a transmission unit provided in the remote control device, and the infrared reception unit provided in the device main body receives the infrared signal to obtain the remote control device. The main body of the device can be remotely operated by operating the operation section of. By applying such a remote control technique, the video game machine itself is also disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 3-007189.
As disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication, a video game machine of a type in which the operation unit of the video game machine body is configured as a remote control device independent of the video game machine body so that the video game machine body can be remotely controlled is proposed. Has been done.

As a technique related to this, in the field of movable toys, there have been various toys of the type that are remotely controlled using a remote control device. Further, not only such TV sets, VTR sets, image display devices such as screen monitors, and video game machines and movable toys, but also various electric devices used at home,
For example, even in audio equipment and air conditioning equipment, individual remote control devices to which similar remote control technology using infrared rays is applied are used.

On the other hand, some TV sets and VTR sets are of a type in which operation support screen data is displayed on the screen so that operations such as timer set and recording reservation can be performed. In the case of such a configuration, there is an advantage that effective operation support can be provided on the screen and operability can be improved, as compared with the case where the operation unit is simply provided.

[0007]

By the way, since the conventional video game machine as described above is constructed exclusively for the video game, its operating rate is limited. Therefore, considering the current and future penetration rates of video game machines, it is desirable to improve the operating rate of the video game machines by providing additional functions. For example, after finishing the video game, while forgetting to turn off the power of the video game console main body while turning off the power of the image display device connected to the video game console main body,
There is a high possibility that the image display device is unnecessarily held in the power-on state, but this leads to wasteful consumption of power, which is not preferable. Therefore, it is desirable that the video game machine and the video game cassette have a function of turning off the power of the image display device in response to the end of the video game, for example.

As described above, in the home, there are various devices that can be remotely controlled by the remote control device. However, when the number of remotely controllable devices is large, the number can be changed according to the number. There will be many individual remote controls. In this case, since the operation method of the remote control device differs depending on the type of the corresponding device, etc., a large number of devices are remotely controlled by various operations of such various remote control devices. There is a problem that the operation of becomes complicated and an operation error is likely to occur. Moreover, when the number of remote control devices increases, management becomes troublesome due to the essential structure that the remote control devices are separated from the main body of the device, and an operation error or the like occurs due to a mistake in the remote control device for the device. There is a possibility.

The present invention has been proposed in order to solve the problems of the prior art as described above, and its first object is to extend the function of the video game machine and improve its operating rate. It is to provide a cassette for a video game machine and a video game machine that can contribute. A second object of the present invention is to provide a cassette for a video game machine and a video game machine, which allow one or more external devices of a remote control type to be remotely controlled more easily by using the video game machine. It is to be.

[0010]

First, a cassette for a video game machine according to the present invention is a cassette for a video game machine mounted on a main body of the video game machine, which is used for controlling an external device other than the main body of the video game machine. It is characterized by having a transmitter for transmitting a wireless data signal. In this case, an infrared signal is generally used as the wireless data signal, but other various wireless data signals such as a laser light signal and a radio wave signal can be used. Further, specifically, the cassette for a video game machine of the present invention has a data storage section for storing control data of an external device or a data processing section for preparing control data of the external device. Of these, the data storage unit is preferably configured so that data can be updated.

Next, a video game machine according to the present invention is a video game machine including a video game machine body and a cassette for the video game machine mounted therein, wherein the video game machine body controls a wireless device for controlling external devices. It is characterized in that it has a transmitting unit for transmitting a data signal. In this case, an infrared signal is generally used as the wireless data signal, but other various wireless data signals such as a laser light signal and a radio wave signal can be used. Further, specifically, the video game machine of the present invention has a data storage unit for storing control data of an external device or a data processing unit for preparing control data of the external device. Such a data storage unit or data processing unit selectively
It is provided in either the cassette for the video game machine or the main body of the video game machine. The data storage unit is preferably configured so that the data can be updated.

The external device to be transmitted with the wireless data signal according to the present invention, that is, the external device to be remotely controlled using the video game machine is, for example, an image display device connected to the main body of the video game machine. This image display device,
Specifically, a TV set having a screen, a VTR set,
Or a screen monitor. In addition, the target external device can be freely selected in addition to the image display device, and for example, a movable toy, an audio device, an air conditioner, or the like can be a target for remote control. Further, it is possible to configure a plurality of external devices to be operated remotely. The data storage unit is preferably configured so that data can be updated. In addition, the transmission unit, selectively,
The cassette body for the video game machine or the main body of the video game machine is detachable.

More specifically, the data processing unit has, for example, a controlled element data storage unit, an operation support screen data storage unit, an operation support screen data output unit, an operation command input unit, and a control data generation unit. In this case, the control target element data storage unit stores the control target element data of the external device. Next, the operation support screen data storage unit stores the operation support screen data corresponding to the control target element data stored in the control target element data storage unit. The operation support screen data output unit outputs the operation support screen data stored in the operation support screen data storage unit. Further, the operation command input unit inputs an operation command for the operation support screen data displayed on the screen of the image display device. Then, the control data generation unit generates the control data for transmission based on the operation command input by the operation command input unit and the control target element data corresponding to the operation command. It should be noted that the device to be remotely controlled on the screen of the image display device in this manner can be various external devices including the image display device other than the image display device. It is also possible to use the image display device itself.

[0014]

In the video game machine cassette and the video game machine of the present invention having the above-described structure, the wireless data signal transmitting section provided in the video game machine cassette or the main body of the video game machine allows an external device to operate. Since a wireless data signal for control can be transmitted to
An external device can be operated by this wireless data signal. Therefore, in addition to the function of playing a video game, it is possible to add a function as a remote control device for an external device to the video game machine.

Particularly, when the operation support screen data is displayed on the screen of the image display device to support the operation, and the device control data according to the operation command input thereto is sent to the transmission unit. Can easily perform remote control using the screen of the image display device, and can improve the operability of the external device that is the target of remote control.

[0016]

Embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings.

(1) First Embodiment (1-1) Configuration of the First Embodiment FIGS. 1 and 2 are configured so that a traveling toy can be remotely controlled by a transmitter provided in a cassette for a video game machine. 1 is a block diagram showing an overall configuration, and FIG. 2 is an external view. That is, as shown in FIG. 1, in the present embodiment, the video game machine cassette 1, the video game machine body 2, the TV set 3,
And a traveling toy 4. The video game machine cassette 1 includes, in addition to the video game data storage section 5, a data processing section 6 and a transmission section 7 according to the present invention.
Is provided. In addition, the traveling toy 4 has a receiving unit 8
Is provided.

[Video game machine cassette] The data processing unit 6 of the video game machine cassette 1 includes a control target element data storage unit 11, an operation support screen data storage unit 12, a control unit 13, and an operation support screen data output unit 14. It has an operation command input unit 15 and a control data generation unit 16. First,
The control target element data storage unit 11 stores the data of the control target element 44 of the traveling toy 4, and the operation support screen data storage unit 12 stores the operation support screen data corresponding to the data of the control target element 44. Is stored.

Next, the control unit 13 appropriately calls the data in the control target element data storage unit 11 and the operation support screen data storage unit 12, and the operation support screen data output unit 1
4, operation command input unit 15, and control data generation unit 16
To perform certain data processing. That is, the operation support screen data output unit 14 is operated by the operation support screen data storage unit 12.
The operation support screen data stored in is output and sent to the TV set 3 via the video game console body 2. Further, the operation command input unit 15 inputs the operation command signal generated by the operation unit 21 of the video game machine body 2 with respect to the operation support screen data displayed on the screen 34 of the TV set 3. Then, the control data generation unit 16 receives the operation command signal input by the operation command input unit 15 with respect to the operation support screen data displayed on the screen 34 of the TV set 3,
The control data for transmission is generated based on the control target element data corresponding to the operation command signal.

On the other hand, the transmitter 7 has a data converter 17 and an infrared ray generator 18. Of these, the data conversion unit 17 converts the control data generated by the control data generation unit 16 of the data processing unit 6 into infrared data. Then, the infrared generation unit 18 converts the infrared data obtained by the data conversion unit 17 into an infrared signal and transmits the infrared signal to the reception unit 8 of the traveling toy 4.

The video game data storage unit 5 is
It has a fixed data area that stores basic data of video and images for video games in the initial state, and a variable data area that stores auxiliary data such as the contents of execution of video games. The variable data area is appropriately updated by sending the data to the signal input / output unit 23 of the video game machine main body 2 and inputting attached data such as execution contents of the video game executed by the operation unit 21 of the video game machine main body 2. It is configured.

[Main Body of Video Game Machine] The main body 2 of the video game machine has an operation section 21, a signal processing section 22, and a signal input / output section 23. Of these, the operation unit 21 is formed of various types of operation terminals, and generates two types of signals according to the operation of each operation terminal. That is, the execution signal is generated when the video game is executed, and the operation command signal is generated when the traveling toy 4 is remotely operated. In addition, this operation unit 21
Although it is possible to integrally provide the video game machine body 2 in this embodiment, in the present embodiment, as shown in the external view of FIG. It is configured to be attachable to and detachable from 2.

Further, the signal processing section 22 appropriately processes the signal generated by the operation section 21 or the data input by the signal input / output section 23 into a signal of a fixed format, and the signal input / output section 23. Send to. Then, the signal input / output unit 23 sends and receives the data for the video game to and from the data storage unit 5 for the video game of the cassette 1 for the video game machine, sends the image data to the TV set 3, and
Data relating to the operation of the traveling toy 4 is exchanged with the data processing unit 6 of the video game machine cassette 1. More specifically, the signal input / output unit 23
Is configured to input the operation support screen data from the operation support screen data output unit 14 of the data processing unit 6 and send the operation command signal input by the operation unit 21 to the operation command input unit 15 of the data processing unit 6. Has been done.

[TV set] The TV set 3 includes a signal input section 31, a signal conversion section 32, a signal selection section 33, a screen 34,
And a speaker 35. Of these, the signal input unit 3
1 inputs image data and audio data from the video game console body 2. Further, the signal conversion unit 32 converts the image data into a pixel signal for screen display and also converts the audio data into an audio signal for audio output. Furthermore, the signal selection unit 33 selects the signal obtained by the signal conversion unit 32 from among the signals
The pixel signal is sent to the screen 34 and the audio signal is sent to the speaker 35. Then, the screen 34 displays the pixel signal as an image, and the speaker 35 outputs the audio signal as audio.

[Running Toy] The running toy 4 has a receiving section 8 including an infrared input section 41 and a signal processing section 42, an operation signal generating section 43, and a controlled element 44. Of these, the infrared input unit 41 receives the infrared signal transmitted from the infrared generation unit 18 of the data processing unit 6 of the video game machine cassette 1 and converts it into an electric signal. Further, the signal processing unit 42 appropriately processes the electric signal obtained by the infrared input unit 41 to form a signal of a fixed format. Further, the operation signal generation unit 43 generates an operation signal according to the control target element 44 from the signal in the fixed format obtained by the signal processing unit 42. In this case, the controlled element 44
Is, for example, a traveling gear, a steering wheel, an accelerator, a brake, or the like.

(1-2) Operation of the First Embodiment [Execution of Video Game] In the present embodiment having the above-mentioned configuration, when a video game is executed, FIG.
As shown in, the video game machine cassette 2 is mounted on the video game machine body 2, and the video game machine body 2 is connected to the TV set 3. In this state, when a predetermined video game start operation is performed on the operation unit 21 of the main body 2 of the video game machine, the operation unit 21 generates an execution start signal of the video game. Subsequently, the signal processing unit 22 of the main body 2 of the video game machine processes the execution start signal into a signal of a certain format, and the signal input / output unit 23 converts this signal into the video game data of the cassette 1 for the video game machine. It is sent to the storage unit 5.

Next, the video game data storage section 5
In response to the execution start signal, the data for starting the video game is sent to the signal input / output unit 23 of the video game machine body 2. The signal input / output unit 23 of the main body 2 of the video game machine is
It receives the data for starting the video game from the video game data storage unit 5, sends the data to the signal processing unit 22, and sends the image data and the audio data among them to the signal input unit 31 of the TV set 3.

Next, the signal input section 31 of the TV set 3
It receives image data and audio data from the signal input / output unit 23 of the video game console body 2, and sends these data to the signal conversion unit 32. The signal conversion unit 32 converts the image data and audio data for starting the video game into a pixel signal and an audio signal, respectively, and the signal selection unit 33.
Sent to. Further, the pixel signal is sent to the screen 34 and the audio signal is sent to the speaker 35 by the signal selection unit 33. As a result, the image for starting the video game is displayed on the screen 34, and the speaker 35 outputs the sound.

When the operation unit 21 of the video game machine main body 2 is appropriately operated with respect to the image thus displayed on the screen 34 and the sound output from the speaker 35,
A video game execution signal is generated by the operation unit 21. Next, the signal processing unit 2 of the video game console body 2
2 processes this execution signal to develop the game content,
Ancillary data such as a video game execution process is generated.

In this case, the signal processing section 22 of the main body 2 of the video game machine sends new image data and audio data reflecting the development content of the game to the signal input section 31 of the TV set 3 by the signal input / output section 23. send. Alternatively,
The signal processing unit 22 of the main body 2 of the video game machine sends the auxiliary data thus generated to the data storage unit 5 for video game of the cassette 1 for video game machine by the signal input / output unit 23, and corresponds to the expanded content. Receives the following data and sends new image data and audio data to TV set 3
To the signal input unit 31 of. In any case, T
The V set 3 receives new image data and audio data, a new image is displayed on the screen 34, and
A new sound is output from the speaker 35, and the following operation is performed on this image and sound output.

As described above, operation, reading of data,
By repeating the procedure of image display, sound output, operation, ..., The contents of the video game are sequentially developed. When the video game ends or is interrupted, a predetermined end / interrupt operation is performed on the operation unit 21 of the video game machine main body 2, so that the operation unit 2
An end / interrupt signal is generated by 1. Subsequently, the signal processing unit 22 processes the end / interruption signal to end or interrupt the game content, and generates auxiliary data such as a video game execution process up to that point. Then, the auxiliary data generated in this way is sent to the video game data storage section 5 of the video game machine cassette 1 by the signal input / output section 23 and stored in the variable data area.

[Remote control of traveling toy] In addition to the above-mentioned operations, in this embodiment, since the infrared signal transmission section 7 is provided in the video game machine cassette 1, the transmission section 7 By transmitting an infrared signal for control to the receiving unit 8 of the traveling toy 4, the traveling toy 4 can be remotely operated by the operation unit 21 of the video game machine body 2. That is, when the traveling toy 4 is remotely controlled, as shown in FIG. 2, the video game machine main body 2 is mounted with the video game machine cassette 1, and the video game machine main body 2 is connected to the TV set 3. The traveling toy 4 is arranged near the video game console body 2. In this state, when a predetermined traveling toy control start operation is executed by the operation unit 21 of the video game machine main body 2, this operation unit 2
1 generates a remote operation start command signal for the traveling toy. Next, the signal processing unit 22 of the video game console body 2
Processes the remote operation start command signal into a signal of a fixed format and sends this signal to the operation command input unit 15 of the data processing unit 6 of the video game machine cassette 1 by the signal input / output unit 23.

Next, the control section 13 of the data processing section 6 of the video game machine cassette 1 inputs a remote operation start command signal by the operation command input section 15, and in response to this signal, stores the operation support screen data. The operation support screen data is called from the unit 12. Then, this operation support screen data is output by the operation support screen data output unit 14 and sent to the signal input / output unit 23 of the video game machine body 2. Thereafter, the video game console body 2 receives the operation support screen data by the signal input / output unit 23, and outputs the operation support screen data to the T
It is sent to the signal input unit 31 of the V set 3.

Next, the signal input section 31 of the TV set 3
The operation support screen data is received from the signal input / output unit 23 of the video game console body 2, and the operation support screen data is sent to the signal conversion unit 32. The signal conversion unit 32 converts the operation support screen data into pixel signals, and the signal selection unit 33.
To the screen 34 via. As a result, the operation support screen data is displayed on the screen 34. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of such operation support screen data,
As the operation items of the traveling toy 4, items such as a traveling direction, a steering state, a speed value, a braking state, etc. are displayed in characters or figures.

Then, with respect to the operation support screen data thus displayed on the screen 34, the video game machine main body 2
When the operation unit 21 is properly operated, an operation command signal for the traveling toy according to the operation is generated by the operation unit 21. That is, an arbitrary operation command signal is generated for one or more of the operation items such as the traveling direction, the steering state, the speed value, and the braking state as shown in FIG. Then, the signal processing unit 22 of the main body 2 of the video game machine processes the operation command signal to generate operation command data, and sends the operation command data to the signal input unit 31 of the TV set 3 and at the same time, operates the operation command. The signal is sent to the operation command input unit 15 of the data processing unit 6 of the video game machine cassette 1 by the signal input / output unit 23. In this case, the operation command data sent to the TV set 3 is converted into pixel signals by the signal conversion unit 32 of the TV set 3 and reflected in the operation support screen data on the screen 34.

On the other hand, the operation command signal output from the video game machine body 2 is input to the operation command input section 15 of the data processing section 6 of the video game machine cassette 1, and in response thereto, the data processing section 6 is sent. The control unit 13 of 1 calls the control target element data corresponding to the operation command signal from the control target element data storage unit 11. In this case, the control unit 13
Responds to the operation command signals such as the traveling direction, the steering state, the speed value, and the braking state as described above, and the corresponding control target element data, that is, the traveling gear, the steering, the accelerator, the brake, etc. Call the controlled element data of. Then, the control unit 13
The control data generation unit 16 generates control data for transmission using the operation command signal and the control target element data, and sends the control data to the data conversion unit 17 of the transmission unit 7. Subsequently, the transmission unit 7 converts the control data into infrared data by the data conversion unit 17, converts the infrared data into an infrared signal by the infrared generation unit 18, and transmits the infrared signal to the reception unit 8 of the traveling toy 4.

As a result, the infrared signal is received by the infrared input section 41 of the receiving section 8 of the traveling toy 4 and converted into an electric signal. Then, the signal processing unit 42 of the traveling toy 4
Processes the electric signal into a signal of a fixed format and sends the signal to the operation signal generation unit 43. The operation signal generation unit 43 of the traveling toy 4 receives a signal from the signal processing unit 42, and generates an operation signal corresponding to a control target element 44 such as a traveling gear, a steering wheel, an accelerator, and a brake from the signal. . Then, by this operation signal, the controlled element 4
4 is controlled to control the traveling direction of the traveling toy 4, the steering state, the speed value, the braking state, and the like.

Therefore, in this embodiment, first,
By executing a predetermined traveling toy control start operation by the operation unit 21 of the video game machine body 2, a remote operation start command signal for the traveling toy is generated, and by the data processing unit 6 of the cassette 1 for the video game machine, The operation support screen data is displayed on the screen 34 of the TV set 3. next,
An operation command signal is generated by appropriately operating the operation unit 21 of the video game machine body 2 with respect to such operation support screen data. This operation command signal is reflected as operation command data in the operation support screen data on the screen 34 of the TV set 3, and is sent to the video game machine cassette 1. Next, cassette 1 for video game consoles
Control data is generated from the operation command signal by the data processing unit 6 and is transmitted from the transmission unit 7 as an infrared signal. The infrared signal is received by the receiving unit 8 of the traveling toy 4.
Is received by the traveling toy 4 and is controlled.

(1-3) Effects of the First Embodiment As described above, the video game machine cassette 1 of the present embodiment not only functions as the software for the video game, but also the data processing unit 6 and the transmission. By providing the section 7, the function as the remote control device for the traveling toy 4 can be achieved. Therefore, since the video game machine main body 2 that has been conventionally used only for executing the video game can also be used for remote control of the traveling toy 4, the operating rate of the video game machine main body 2 can be improved.
Further, since the operation support screen data can be displayed on the screen 34 of the TV set 3 to support the operation, the traveling toy 4 can be remotely controlled extremely easily.

(2) Second Embodiment (2-1) Configuration of Second Embodiment FIG. 4 shows a TV set connected to the main body of the TV game machine, which is remotely controlled by a transmitter provided in the cassette for the TV game machine. It is a block diagram which shows one Example (2nd Example) comprised so that it might be possible. That is, as shown in FIG.
This embodiment comprises a cassette 1 for a video game machine, a main body 2 of the video game machine, and a TV set 3.

Of these, the video game machine cassette 1 and the video game machine body 2 have the same constructions as in the first embodiment. However, since the remote control target device of the present embodiment is the TV set 3, the control target element data storage unit 11 of the data processing unit 6 of the video game machine cassette 1 of the present embodiment controls the TV set 3. The data of the target element is stored, and the operation support screen data storage unit 12 stores the operation support screen data corresponding to such a control target element of the TV set 3. In addition, the infrared ray generator 18 of the transmitter 7 of the video game console 1
The infrared signal is transmitted to the receiving section 8 provided in the TV set 3. Similarly, the video game console body 2 of the present embodiment
The operation unit 21 of generates an operation command signal when the TV set 3 is remotely operated.

On the other hand, in the TV set 3 of this embodiment, the signal input section 31, the signal conversion section 32, the signal selection section 33, and the screen 3 are included.
4, a speaker 35, an infrared input section 36 and a signal processing section 37, and a receiving section 8 and an operation signal generating section 3.
8 are provided. Then, the operation signal generation unit 38
Like the signal converter 32, the signal selector 33 is connected to the signal selector 33. The signal selector 33 includes a screen 34 and a speaker 35.
In addition, a power switch 39 for turning on / off the power of the TV set 3 is connected.

That is, the TV set 3 of this embodiment has a signal path for sending a signal from the main body 2 of the video game machine to the signal selection section 33 via the signal input section 31 and the signal conversion section 32, and the video game machine. It has two signal paths, that is, a signal path for transmitting an infrared signal from the cassette 1 for use to the signal selecting section 33 via the receiving section 8 and the operation signal generating section 38. In this case, the signal selection unit 38 is configured to send the signal received from the two signal paths to any of the screen 34, the speaker 35, and the power switch 39. Therefore, in this embodiment, this screen 3
4, the speaker 35, and the power switch 39 correspond to the elements to be controlled by the infrared signal.

(2-2) Operation of the Second Embodiment [Execution of Video Game] In the present embodiment having the above-mentioned configuration, the execution of the video game is basically the same as in the first embodiment. Can be done. That is, when a predetermined video game start operation is executed with the video game machine cassette 1 mounted on the video game machine body 2 and the video game machine body 2 connected to the TV set 3, the video game machine body 2 An execution start signal is sent from the video game console 1 to the video game console. As a result, image data and audio data for starting the video game are sent from the video game machine cassette 1 to the TV set 3 via the video game machine body 2. As a result, the image for starting the video game is displayed on the screen 34 of the TV set 3 and the speaker 35 outputs the sound.

When the operation unit 21 of the video game machine main body 2 is appropriately operated with respect to the image thus displayed on the screen 34 and the sound output from the speaker 35,
The signal processing unit 22 of the main body 2 of the video game machine develops the game content, and sends new image data and audio data reflecting the development content of the game to the TV set 3. As a result, a new image is displayed on the screen 34 of the TV set 3 and a new sound is output by the speaker 35, and the following operation is performed on this image and the sound output.

Therefore, also in the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment, by repeating the above-mentioned procedures of operation, data reading, image display and voice output, operation, ... The contents will be developed in sequence. When the video game ends or is interrupted, the signal processing unit 22 ends or interrupts the game content by performing a predetermined end / interrupt operation on the operation unit 21 of the video game machine main body 2, and until that time. Generates auxiliary data such as the execution process of the video game of. Then, this attached data is sent to the video game data storage section 5 of the video game machine cassette 1,
Saved.

[Remote control of TV set] In addition to the above operations, in the present embodiment, since the infrared signal transmitting section 7 is provided in the video game machine cassette 1, this transmitting section 7 can be used to operate the TV. By transmitting an infrared signal for control to the receiving unit 8 of the set 3, the TV set 3 can be remotely operated by the operating unit 21 of the video game console body 2. That is, for example, when the TV game of the TV set 3 is executed or in the normal TV mode, the TV set 3 is
By setting the operation support screen data of the TV set 3 to be displayed on a part of the screen 34 of the TV set 3, the TV set is operated by the operation unit 21 of the main body 2 of the video game machine during the execution of the video game and the normal TV mode. The image quality of the screen 34 and the volume of the speaker 35 can be remotely controlled.

That is, at the time of executing the video game or in the normal TV mode, a part of the screen 34 of the TV set 3 is displayed.
With the operation support screen data of TV set 3 displayed,
A predetermined TV is displayed on the operation unit 21 of the video game console body 2.
When the set control operation is executed, an operation command signal for the TV set is generated by the operation unit 21. in this case,
For example, an operation command signal regarding the image quality of the screen 34 of the TV set 3 and the volume of the speaker 35 is generated. Then, the signal processing unit 22 of the main body 2 of the video game machine processes the operation command signal to generate operation command data, and sends the operation command data to the signal input unit 31 of the TV set 3 and at the same time, operates the operation command. The signal is sent to the operation command input unit 15 of the data processing unit 6 of the video game machine cassette 1 by the signal input / output unit 23. In this case, the operation command data sent to the TV set 3 is converted into pixel signals by the signal conversion unit 32 of the TV set 3 and reflected in the operation support screen data on the screen 34.

On the other hand, the operation command signal output from the video game machine main body 2 is input to the operation command input section 15 of the data processing section 6 of the video game machine cassette 1, and in response thereto, the data processing section 6 is sent. The control unit 13 of 1 calls the control target element data corresponding to the operation command signal from the control target element data storage unit 11. In this case, the control unit 13
Is the image quality of the screen 34 and the speaker 35 as described above.
In response to the operation command signal regarding the sound volume of, the corresponding control target element data, that is, the control target element data of the screen 34 and the speaker 35 is called. Then, using the operation command signal and the control target element data, the control data generation unit 16 generates control data for transmission, and the control data is transmitted to the data conversion unit 1 of the transmission unit 7.
Send to 7. Subsequently, the transmission unit 7 converts the control data into infrared data by the data conversion unit 17, converts the infrared data into an infrared signal by the infrared generation unit 18, and transmits the infrared signal to the reception unit 8 of the TV set 3.

As a result, the infrared signal is received by the infrared input section 36 of the receiving section 8 of the TV set 3 and converted into an electric signal. Then, the signal processing unit 37 of the TV set 3
Processes the electric signal into a signal of a fixed format and sends the signal to the operation signal generation unit 38. The operation signal generation unit 38 of the TV set 3 receives the signal from the signal processing unit 37, and generates an operation signal according to the control target elements such as the screen 34 and the speaker 35 from the signal. Then, the operation signal controls the screen 34 and the speaker 35 that are control target elements, and controls the image quality of the screen 34 and the volume of the speaker 35.

Therefore, in this embodiment, when the video game is executed or in the normal TV mode, the operation section 21 of the main body 2 of the video game machine is appropriately operated with respect to the operation support display data constantly displayed on the screen. By TV
The image quality of the screen 34 of the set 3 and the volume of the speaker 35 can be remotely controlled. Further, when it is set to send a power-off command of the TV set 3 from the main body 2 of the video game machine to the data processing unit 6 of the cassette 1 for the video game machine when the video game or the TV mode ends or is interrupted The power of the TV set 3 can be automatically turned off when the video game or the TV mode ends or is interrupted.

(2-3) Effects of the Second Embodiment As described above, the video game machine cassette 1 of the present embodiment not only functions as the software for the video game, but also the data processing section 6 and the transmission. By providing the section 7, the TV set 3 having the infrared receiving section 8
Can function as a remote control device. Therefore, since the video game machine main body 2 that has been conventionally used only for executing the video game can also be used for remote control of the TV set 3, the operating rate of the video game machine main body 2 can be improved. Further, similarly to the first embodiment, since the operation support screen data can be displayed on the screen 34 of the TV set 3 to provide the operation support, the TV set 3 can be remotely operated extremely easily. .

(3) Third Embodiment (3-1) Configuration of Third Embodiment FIG. 5 shows an embodiment in which a VTR set can be remotely controlled by a transmitter provided in a cassette for a video game machine. It is a block diagram which shows (3rd Example). That is, as shown in FIG. 5, this embodiment includes a video game machine cassette 1, a video game machine body 2, a TV set 3, and a VTR set 50.

Of these, the cassette 1 for the video game machine,
The video game console body 2 and the TV set 3 have the same configurations as those in the first embodiment. However, since the remote control target device of this embodiment is the VTR set 50, the VTR set 50 is stored in the control target element data storage unit 11 of the data processing unit 6 of the video game machine cassette 1 of this embodiment.
The data of the control target element of the VTR set 50 is stored in the operation support screen data storage unit 12.
The operation support screen data corresponding to the control target element of is stored. Further, the infrared ray generator 18 of the transmitter 7 of the cassette 1 for video game machine transmits an infrared signal to the receiver 8 provided in the VTR set 50. Similarly, the operation unit 21 of the main body 2 of the video game machine of the present embodiment is a VTR.
The operation command signal is generated when the set 50 is remotely operated.

On the other hand, the VTR set 50 of the present embodiment has a receiving section 8 including an infrared input section 51 and a signal processing section 52.
It has an operation signal generation unit 53, a timer 54, a tuner unit 55, and a tape drive unit 56. Of these, the timer 54
Is activated by the operation signal generated by the operation signal generation unit 53.
It is configured to stop and control its mode. The tuner unit 55 inputs a radio wave of TV wavelength and converts it into an image / audio signal. The tape drive unit 56 drives the VTR tape, and the image obtained by the tuner unit 55
It has modes such as a recording mode for recording an audio signal and a reproduction mode for outputting the recorded image / audio signal.

(3-2) Operation of Third Embodiment [Execution of Video Game] In the present embodiment having the above-mentioned configuration, the execution of the video game is basically performed by the first and second embodiments. It can be performed in the same manner as the example. That is, also in the present embodiment, as in the first and second embodiments, the video game is executed by repeating the normal procedure of operation, data reading, image display and voice output, operation, .... You can

[Remote control of VTR set] In addition to the above-mentioned operations, in this embodiment, since the infrared signal transmitting section 7 is provided in the video game machine cassette 1,
By transmitting an infrared signal for control from the transmitter 7 to the receiver 8 of the VTR set 50, the VTR set 50 can be remotely operated by the operation unit 21 of the video game console body 2. That is, for example, when a recording reservation for the VTR set 50 is made, when a predetermined VTR set control start operation is executed on the operation unit 21 of the video game machine main body 2, a remote operation start command for the VTR set is issued by the operation unit 21. A signal is generated. This remote operation start command signal is processed by the signal processing unit 22 and then sent to the data processing unit 6 of the video game machine cassette 1 by the signal input / output unit 23.

Next, the control section 13 of the data processing section 6 of the video game machine cassette 1 calls the operation support screen data from the operation support screen data storage section 12 in response to the remote operation start command signal, and performs this operation. Operation of the support screen data is performed by the operation support screen data output unit 14 to the main body 2 of the video game machine.
Send to. Next, the operation support screen data is the TV set 3
The signal is converted into a pixel signal by the signal conversion unit 32 of the TV set 3, and is transmitted to the screen 34 via the signal selection unit 33. As a result, the operation support screen data is displayed on the screen 34. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of such operation support screen data, and as operation items of the VTR set 50, operation start / end time and selection mode items are displayed in characters and figures.

Then, with respect to the operation support screen data displayed on the screen 34 in this way, the video game machine main body 2
When the operation unit 21 is appropriately operated, the operation unit 21 generates an operation command signal of the VTR set according to the operation. That is, an arbitrary operation command signal is generated for the operation start / end time and selection mode items as shown in FIG. Then, the signal processing unit 22 of the main body 2 of the video game machine processes the operation command signal to generate operation command data, and sends the operation command data to the signal input unit 31 of the TV set 3 and at the same time, operates the operation command. The signal is sent to the operation command input unit 15 of the data processing unit 6 of the video game machine cassette 1 by the signal input / output unit 23. In this case, TV
The operation command data sent to the set 3 is converted into pixel signals by the signal conversion unit 32 of the TV set 3, and the screen 34
It is reflected in the above operation support screen data.

On the other hand, the operation command signal output from the video game machine main body 2 is input to the operation command input section 15 of the data processing section 6 of the video game machine cassette 1, and in response thereto, the data processing section 6 is sent. The control unit 13 of 1 calls the control target element data corresponding to the operation command signal from the control target element data storage unit 11. In this case, the control unit 13
Responds to the operation start / end time and the operation command signal of the selection mode as described above in response to the corresponding control target element data, that is, the timer 54, the tuner section 55,
The control target element data such as the tape drive unit 56 is called. Then, the control unit 13 uses the operation command signal and the control target element data to control the data generation unit 1
6, the control data for transmission is generated, and this control data is sent to the data conversion unit 17 of the transmission unit 7. Subsequently, the transmission unit 7 converts the control data into infrared data by the data conversion unit 17, converts the infrared data into an infrared signal by the infrared generation unit 18, and transmits the infrared signal to the reception unit 8 of the VTR set 50.

As a result, the infrared signal is received by the infrared input section 51 of the receiving section 8 of the VTR set 50 and converted into an electric signal. Subsequently, the signal processing unit 52 of the VTR set 50 processes the electric signal into a signal of a fixed format and sends the signal to the operation signal generation unit 53. This VTR set 5
The operation signal generation unit 53 of 0 receives the signal from the signal processing unit 52, and from this signal, the timer 54 and the tuner unit 5
5, an operation signal corresponding to the element data to be controlled such as the tape drive unit 56 is generated. Then, this operation signal is sent to the timer 54, and the operation reservation including the operation start / end time and the data of the selection mode is set in the timer 54. The timer 54 activates the tuner unit 55 and the tape drive unit 56 in a predetermined mode at the set operation start time, and stops the tuner unit 55 and the tape drive unit 56 at the set end time.

Therefore, in this embodiment, first,
A predetermined VT is operated by the operation unit 21 of the video game console body 2.
By executing the R set control start operation, a remote operation start command signal for the VTR set is generated, and the operation processing screen data is displayed on the screen 34 of the TV set 3 by the data processing unit 6 of the video game machine cassette 1. To be done. Next, by appropriately operating the operation unit 21 of the video game console body 2 with respect to such operation support screen data,
An operation command signal is generated. This operation command signal is reflected as operation command data in the operation support screen data on the screen 34 of the TV set 3, and is sent to the video game machine cassette 1. Subsequently, control data is generated from the operation command signal by the data processing unit 6 of the video game machine cassette 1 and transmitted from the transmission unit 7 as an infrared signal. Then, the infrared signal is received by the receiving unit 8 of the VTR set 50, and the VTR set 50 is controlled.

When performing remote control of the VTR set 50 as described above, specifically, various TV program information provided as a ROM cassette, program information provided using a telephone line, etc. By using the information from the above information source, operations such as recording of programs can be performed more efficiently.

(3-3) Effects of Third Embodiment As described above, the video game machine cassette 1 of the present embodiment not only functions as the software for the video game, but also the data processing section 6 and the transmission. By providing the section 7, the function of the VTR set 50 as a remote control device can be achieved. Therefore, since the video game machine main body 2 that has been conventionally used only for executing the video game can also be used for remote control of the VTR set 50, the operating rate of the video game machine main body 2 can be improved. In addition, since the operation support screen data can be displayed on the screen 34 of the TV set 3 to support the operation, the VTR set 50 can be remotely operated extremely easily.

(4) Other Embodiments The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and includes, for example, traveling toys, TV sets, and the like to be controlled.
The external device such as the VTR set may be any device as long as it has an infrared signal receiving section, and devices having various configurations can be controlled. In addition, the type of equipment is not limited to traveling toys, but also water and underwater toys, flying toys, etc.
It is possible to select various types of movable toys or various types of image display devices such as general-purpose screen monitors. That is, the external device to be controlled according to the present invention may be any device having an infrared signal receiving unit, and various acoustic devices, air-conditioning devices, etc. may be controlled in addition to the movable toys and image display devices. Can be

Furthermore, in each of the above-described embodiments, the configuration for controlling one external device has been shown, but a configuration for controlling a plurality of external devices is also possible. In such a case, the main body of the video game machine can be used as a common remote control device for a plurality of external devices, so that it is possible to use a plurality of external devices as compared with the case of using a plurality of individual remote control devices. The whole operation becomes easy, and there is no problem that an operation error occurs due to a mistake of the remote control device with respect to the device.

On the other hand, in each of the above-described embodiments, the configuration in which the transmission unit is provided in the cassette for the video game machine is shown, but the configuration in which the transmission unit is provided in the main body of the video game machine is also possible, and the same operational effect is obtained. can get. Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the data processing unit is provided in addition to the transmission unit in the cassette for the video game machine, but the data processing unit may be provided in the main body of the video game machine. Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the data processing unit is configured to generate the control data each time in response to the operation of the main body of the video game machine. However, fixed control data is stored in the data storage unit in advance. Alternatively, the corresponding control data can be selected according to the operation of the main body of the video game machine and transmitted by the transmitting unit. Also, this data storage unit may be provided in either the cassette for the video game machine or the main body of the video game machine. Furthermore, instead of providing such a special data processing unit or data storage unit, control data to be transmitted by the transmission unit may be prepared by the operation unit of the main body of the video game machine or the signal processing unit for the video game. It is possible.

More specifically, the transmitter, the data processor,
Alternatively, the specific configuration and processing procedure of the data storage unit and the like can be appropriately selected. For example, the transmission unit and the data processing unit or the data storage unit can be integrally configured. It is also possible to configure the transmitter or other components to be attachable to and detachable from the cassette body for the video game machine or the body of the video game machine.

Furthermore, in each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the cassette for the video game machine has the configuration having the data storage portion for the video game, but the video game dedicated for remote operation without the data storage portion for the video game is shown. It is also possible to construct a machine cassette. In addition, an infrared signal is generally used as the wireless data signal for remote operation, but other various wireless data signals such as a laser light signal and a radio wave signal can be used.

[0070]

As described above, according to the cassette for a video game machine and the video game machine of the present invention, the cassette for the video game machine or the main body of the video game machine is provided with a transmitting section for a wireless data signal such as an infrared signal. As a result, the video game machine can be provided with a function as a remote control device for an external device in addition to the function of executing a video game. Therefore, the function of the video game machine can be expanded and the operation rate thereof can be improved as compared with the conventional case.

When the operation support screen data is displayed on the screen of the image display device to provide the operation support, the external device to be controlled can be remotely operated extremely easily. Further, when configured to control a plurality of external devices, the video game console main body can be used as a common remote control device for a plurality of external devices, so a plurality of individual remote control devices are used. The operation of the plurality of external devices as a whole becomes easier than in the case of performing the above.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a first embodiment of the present invention, and in particular, a block diagram showing a cassette for a video game machine, a main body of the video game machine, a TV set, and a traveling toy.

FIG. 2 is an external view of the cassette for the video game machine, the main body of the video game machine, the TV set, and the traveling toy of FIG.

FIG. 3 shows a TV using the cassette for the video game machine of FIG.
Explanatory drawing which shows an example of the operation assistance screen data displayed on the screen of a set.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a second embodiment of the present invention, and particularly showing a video game console, a video game console main body, and a TV set.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a third embodiment of the present invention, in particular, a block diagram showing a cassette for a video game machine, a main body of the video game machine, a TV set, and a VTR set.

FIG. 6 shows a TV using the cassette for the video game machine of FIG.
Explanatory drawing which shows an example of the operation assistance screen data displayed on the screen of a set.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Cassette for video game machine 2 ... Main body of video game machine 3 ... TV set 4 ... Traveling toy 5 ... Data storage unit 5 for video game 5 ... Data processing unit 7 ... Transmitting unit 8 ... Receiving unit 11 ... Control target element data Storage unit 12 ... Operation support screen data storage unit 13 ... Control unit 14 ... Operation support screen data output unit 15 ... Operation command input unit 16 ... Control data generation unit 17 ... Data conversion unit 18 ... Infrared ray generation unit 21 ... Operation unit 22 ... Signal processing unit 23 ... Signal input / output unit 31 ... Signal input unit 32 ... Signal conversion unit 33 ... Signal selection unit 34 ... Screen 35 ... Speaker 36 ... Infrared input unit 37 ... Signal processing unit 38 ... Operation signal generation unit 39 ... Power switch 41 ... Infrared input section 42 ... Signal processing section 43 ... Operation signal generation section 44 ... Controlled element 50 ... VTR set 51 ... Infrared input section 52 ... Signal processing section 5 ... operation signal generation unit 54 ... Timer 55 ... tuner portion 56 ... tape drive unit

Claims (22)

[Claims] 1. A video game machine cassette to be mounted on a video game machine body, comprising a transmitter for transmitting a wireless data signal for control to an external device other than the video game machine body. Cassette for video game machine. 2. A cassette for a video game machine mounted on the main body of the video game machine, a transmitter for transmitting a wireless data signal for control to an external device other than the main body of the video game machine, and a control for the external device. A cassette for a video game machine, comprising: a data storage section for storing data. 3. The video game machine cassette according to claim 2, wherein the data storage unit is configured to be capable of updating data. 4. A cassette for a video game machine mounted on the main body of the video game machine, a transmitter for transmitting a wireless data signal for control to an external device other than the main body of the video game machine, and a control for the external device. A video game machine cassette, comprising: a data processing unit for preparing data. 5. The data processing unit, a control target element data storage unit for storing control target element data of the external device, and operation support corresponding to the control target element data stored in the control target element data storage unit. An operation support screen data storage unit that stores screen data, an operation support screen data output unit that outputs the operation support screen data stored in the operation support screen data storage unit, and an operation support screen data output unit that is displayed on the screen of the image display device. An operation command input unit for inputting an operation command to the operation support screen data, an operation command input by the operation command input unit, and the operation command of the control target element data stored in the control target element data storage unit. A control data generation unit that generates control data for transmission based on the control target element data corresponding to A cassette for a video game machine according to claim 4. 6. The data processing unit is configured to prepare control data of an external device other than the image display device, and the transmission unit wirelessly controls external devices other than the image display device. The video game machine cassette according to claim 5, wherein the cassette is configured to transmit a data signal. 7. The transmitter according to claim 1, wherein the transmitter is configured to transmit a wireless data signal for control to an image display device connected to the main body of the video game machine. 2, claim 3, claim 4, or claim 5
The cassette for the video game machine described. 8. The transmitter according to claim 1, wherein the transmitter is configured to transmit a wireless data signal for control to the movable toy. ,
The cassette for a video game machine according to claim 5 or 6. 9. The transmitter according to claim 1, wherein the transmitter is configured to transmit a wireless data signal for control to an audio device. The cassette for a video game machine according to claim 5 or 6. 10. The transmitter according to claim 1, wherein the transmitter is configured to transmit a wireless data signal for control to an air conditioner.
The cassette for a video game machine according to claim 5 or 6. 11. The transmitter according to claim 1, wherein the transmitter is configured to transmit a wireless data signal for control to a plurality of external devices. The cassette for a video game machine according to claim 4, claim 5, or claim 6. 12. The transmitter according to claim 1, wherein the transmitter is configured to be attachable to and detachable from the cassette body for the video game machine. Or a cassette for a video game machine according to claim 6. 13. A video game machine including a video game machine main body and a video game machine cassette attached to the main body, wherein the video game machine main body includes a transmitter for transmitting a control wireless data signal to an external device. A video game machine characterized by having. 14. The video game machine according to claim 13, wherein the video game machine body has a data storage section for storing control data of the external device. 15. The video game machine according to claim 13, wherein the cassette for the video game machine has a data storage section for storing control data of the external device. 16. The video game machine according to claim 14, wherein the data storage unit is configured to be capable of updating data. 17. The video game machine according to claim 13, wherein the video game machine main body has a data processing unit for preparing control data of the external device. 18. The video game machine according to claim 13, wherein the cassette for the video game machine has a data processing section for preparing control data of the external device. 19. The data processing unit stores a control target element data storage unit for storing control target element data of the external device, and operation support corresponding to the control target element data stored in the control target element data storage unit. An operation support screen data storage unit that stores screen data, an operation support screen data output unit that outputs the operation support screen data stored in the operation support screen data storage unit, and an operation support screen data output unit that is displayed on the screen of the image display device. An operation command input unit for inputting an operation command to the operation support screen data, an operation command input by the operation command input unit, and the operation command of the control target element data stored in the control target element data storage unit. And a control data generation unit that generates control data for transmission based on the control target element data corresponding to The video game machine according to claim 17 or 18. 20. The data processing unit is configured to prepare control data of an external device other than the image display device, and the transmitting unit is a wireless device for controlling external devices other than the image display device. The video game machine of claim 19, wherein the video game machine is configured to transmit a data signal. 21. The video game machine according to claim 13, wherein the transmitter is configured to transmit a wireless data signal for device control to a plurality of external devices. 22. The video game machine according to claim 13, wherein the transmitter is configured to be attachable to and detachable from the main body of the video game machine.