U.S. Pat. No. 11,148,043

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF NON-LIMITING EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

1. Configuration of Game System

A game system according to an example of the present embodiment will now be described.FIG. 1is a diagram showing an example of apparatuses included in the game system. As shown inFIG. 1, a game system1includes a main body apparatus2, a left controller3, a right controller4, and a ring-shaped extension apparatus5.

The main body apparatus2is an example of an information processing apparatus, and functions as a game device main body in the present embodiment. The left controller3and the right controller4are attachable to and detachable from the main body apparatus2(seeFIG. 1andFIG. 3). That is, the user can attach the left controller3and the right controller4to the main body apparatus2, and use them as a unified apparatus (seeFIG. 2). The user can also use the main body apparatus2and the left controller3and the right controller4separately from each other (seeFIG. 3). Note that the main body apparatus2and the controllers3and4may hereinafter be referred to collectively as a “game apparatus”.

The ring-shaped extension apparatus5is an example of an extension apparatus that is used with the right controller4. The ring-shaped extension apparatus5is used with the right controller4attached thereto. Thus, in the present embodiment, the user can use the right controller4while it is attached to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5(seeFIG. 10). Note that the ring-shaped extension apparatus5is not limited for use with the right controller4, but the left controller3may be attachable thereto.

[1-1. Configuration of Game Apparatus]

FIG. 2is a diagram showing an example of the state where the left controller3and the right controller4are attached to the main body apparatus2. As shown inFIG. 2, each of the left controller3and the right controller4is attached to and unified with the main body apparatus2. The main body apparatus2is an apparatus for performing various processes (e.g., game processing) in the game system1. The main body apparatus2includes a display12. Each of the left controller3and the right controller4is an apparatus including operation sections with which a user provides inputs.

FIG. 3is a diagram showing an example of the state where each of the left controller3and the right controller4is detached from the main body apparatus2. As shown inFIGS. 2 and 3, the left controller3and the right controller4are attachable to and detachable from the main body apparatus2. It should be noted that hereinafter, the left controller3and the right controller4will occasionally be referred to collectively as a “controller”.

FIG. 4is six orthogonal views showing an example of the main body apparatus2. As shown inFIG. 4, the main body apparatus2includes an approximately plate-shaped housing11. In the exemplary embodiment, a main surface (in other words, a surface on a front side, i.e., a surface on which the display12is provided) of the housing11has a generally rectangular shape.

As shown inFIG. 4, the main body apparatus2includes the display12, which is provided on the main surface of the housing11. The display12displays an image generated by the main body apparatus2. In the exemplary embodiment, the display12is a liquid crystal display device (LCD). The display12, however, may be a display device of any type. Note that the main body apparatus2may output the image to an external monitor.

The main body apparatus2includes speakers within the housing11. As shown inFIG. 4, speaker holes11aand11bare formed on the main surface of the housing11. Then, sounds output from the speakers are output through the speaker holes11aand11b.

The main body apparatus2includes a left-side terminal17that enables wired communication between the main body apparatus2and the left controller3, and a right-side terminal21that enables wired communication between the main body apparatus2and the right controller4.

As shown inFIG. 4, the main body apparatus2includes a slot23. The slot23is provided on an upper side surface of the housing11. The slot23is so shaped as to allow a predetermined type of storage medium to be attached to the slot23. The predetermined type of storage medium is, for example, a dedicated storage medium (e.g., a dedicated memory card) for the game system1and an information processing apparatus of the same type as the game system1. The predetermined type of storage medium is used to store, for example, data (e.g., saved data of an application or the like) used by the main body apparatus2and/or a program (e.g., a program for an application or the like) executed by the main body apparatus2. Further, the main body apparatus2includes a power button28.

FIG. 5is six orthogonal views showing an example of the right controller4. As shown inFIG. 5, the right controller4includes a housing51. In the exemplary embodiment, the housing51has a vertically long shape, e.g., is shaped to be long in the up-down direction (i.e., a y-axis direction shown inFIG. 5). In the state where the right controller4is detached from the main body apparatus2, the right controller4can also be held in the orientation in which the right controller4is vertically long. The housing51has such a shape and a size that when held in the orientation in which the housing51is vertically long, the housing51can be held with one hand, particularly the right hand. Further, the right controller4can also be held in the orientation in which the right controller4is horizontally long. When held in the orientation in which the right controller4is horizontally long, the right controller4may be held with both hands.

The right controller4includes an analog stick52as a direction input section. As shown inFIG. 5, the analog stick52is provided on a main surface of the housing51. The user tilts a shaft portion of the analog stick52and thereby can input a direction corresponding to the direction of the tilt (and input a magnitude corresponding to the angle of the tilt). It should be noted that the right controller4may include a directional pad, a slide stick that allows a slide input, or the like as the direction input section, instead of the analog stick. Further, in the exemplary embodiment, it is possible to provide an input by pressing the analog stick52.

The right controller4includes various operation buttons. The right controller4includes four operation buttons53to56(specifically, an A-button53, a B-button54, an X-button55, and a Y-button56) on a main surface of the housing51. Further, the right controller4includes a “+” (plus) button57and a home button58. Further, the right controller4includes a first R-button60and a ZR-button61in an upper right portion of a side surface of the housing51. Further, the right controller4includes a second L-button65and a second R-button66, on the side surface of the housing51on which the right controller4is attached to the main body apparatus2. These operation buttons are used to give instructions depending on various programs (e.g., an OS program and an application program) executed by the main body apparatus2.

The right controller4includes a terminal64that enables wired communication between the right controller4and the main body apparatus2.

As shown inFIG. 5, the right controller4includes indicator LEDs67. The indicator LEDs67are an indicator section for notifying the user of predetermined information. The indicator LEDs67are provided on the slider62, specifically, on the engaging surface of the slider62(i.e., the surface that faces the x-axis positive direction side shown inFIG. 5). In the present embodiment, the right controller4includes four LEDs as the indicator LEDs67. For example, the predetermined information includes a number that is assigned by the main body apparatus2to the right controller4, and information relating to the remaining battery level of the right controller4.

Note that as does the right controller4, the left controller3also includes four indicator LEDs45(seeFIG. 5). The left controller3includes a terminal that enables wired communication between the left controller3and the main body apparatus2.

FIG. 6is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the main body apparatus2. The main body apparatus2includes components81to91,97, and98shown inFIG. 6in addition to the components shown inFIG. 4. Some of the components81to91,97, and98may be mounted as electronic components on an electronic circuit board and accommodated in the housing11.

The main body apparatus2includes a processor81. The processor81is an information processing section for executing various types of information processing to be executed by the main body apparatus2. For example, a processor81may be composed only of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), or may be composed of a SoC (System-on-a-chip) having a plurality of functions such as a CPU function and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) function. The processor81executes an information processing program (e.g., a game program) stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal storage medium such as a flash memory84, an external storage medium attached to the slot23, or the like), thereby performing the various types of information processing.

The main body apparatus2includes a flash memory84and a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory)85as examples of internal storage media built into the main body apparatus2. The flash memory84and the DRAM85are connected to the processor81. The flash memory84is a memory mainly used to store various data (or programs) to be saved in the main body apparatus2. The DRAM85is a memory used to temporarily store various data used for information processing.

The main body apparatus2includes a slot interface (hereinafter abbreviated as “I/F”)91. The slot I/F91is connected to the processor81. The slot I/F91is connected to the slot23, and in accordance with an instruction from the processor81, reads and writes data from and to the predetermined type of storage medium (e.g., a dedicated memory card) attached to the slot23.

The processor81appropriately reads and writes data from and to the flash memory84, the DRAM85, and each of the above storage media, thereby performing the above information processing.

The main body apparatus2includes a controller communication section83. The controller communication section83is connected to the processor81. The controller communication section83wirelessly communicates with the left controller3and/or the right controller4. The communication method between the main body apparatus2and the left controller3and the right controller4is optional. In the exemplary embodiment, a controller communication section83performs communication compliant with the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard with the left controller3and with the right controller4.

Further, the display12is connected to the processor81. The processor81displays a generated image (e.g., an image generated by executing the above information processing) and/or an externally acquired image on the display12.

FIG. 7is a block diagram showing examples of the internal configurations of the main body apparatus2, the left controller3, and the right controller4. It should be noted that the details of the internal configuration of the main body apparatus2are shown inFIG. 6and therefore are omitted inFIG. 7.

The right controller4includes a communication control section111, which communicates with the main body apparatus2. As shown inFIG. 7, a communication control section111is connected to components including the terminal64. In the exemplary embodiment, the communication control section111can communicate with the main body apparatus2through both wired communication via a terminal64and wireless communication not via the terminal64. The communication control section111controls the method for communication performed by the right controller4with the main body apparatus2. That is, when the right controller4is attached to the main body apparatus2, the communication control section111communicates with the main body apparatus2via the terminal64. Further, when the right controller4is detached from the main body apparatus2, the communication control section111wirelessly communicates with the main body apparatus2(specifically, the controller communication section83). The wireless communication between the communication control section111and the controller communication section83is performed in accordance with the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard, for example.

Further, the right controller4includes a memory112such as a flash memory. The communication control section111includes, for example, a microcomputer (or a microprocessor) and executes firmware stored in the memory112, thereby performing various processes.

The right controller4includes buttons103(specifically, the buttons53to58,60,61,65, and66). Further, the right controller4includes the analog stick (“stick” inFIG. 7)52. Each of the buttons113and the analog stick52outputs information regarding an input performed on itself to the communication control section111repeatedly at appropriate timing.

The right controller4includes inertial sensors. Specifically, the right controller4includes an acceleration sensor114. Further, the right controller4includes an angular velocity sensor115. In the exemplary embodiment, an acceleration sensor114detects the magnitudes of accelerations along predetermined three axial (e.g., xyz axes shown inFIG. 5) directions. It should be noted that the acceleration sensor114may detect an acceleration along one axial direction or accelerations along two axial directions. In the exemplary embodiment, an angular velocity sensor115detects angular velocities about predetermined three axes (e.g., the xyz axes shown inFIG. 5). It should be noted that the angular velocity sensor115may detect an angular velocity about one axis or angular velocities about two axes. Each of the acceleration sensor114and the angular velocity sensor115is connected to the communication control section111. Then, the detection results of the acceleration sensor114and the angular velocity sensor115are output to the communication control section111repeatedly at appropriate timing.

The communication control section111acquires information regarding an input (e.g., information regarding an operation or the detection result of the sensor) from each of input sections (specifically, the buttons113, the analog stick52, and the sensors114and115). The communication control section111transmits operation data including the acquired information (or information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the acquired information) to the main body apparatus2. It should be noted that the operation data is transmitted repeatedly, once every predetermined time. It should be noted that the interval at which the information regarding an input is transmitted from each of the input sections to the main body apparatus2may or may not be the same.

The above operation data is transmitted to the main body apparatus2, whereby the main body apparatus2can obtain inputs provided to the right controller4. That is, the main body apparatus2can determine inputs on the buttons113and the analog stick52based on the operation data. Further, the main body apparatus2can calculate information regarding the motion and/or the orientation of the right controller4based on the operation data (specifically, the detection results of the acceleration sensor114and the angular velocity sensor115).

The right controller4includes a vibrator117for giving notification to the user by a vibration. In the exemplary embodiment, the vibrator117is controlled by a command from the main body apparatus2. That is, if receiving the above command from the main body apparatus2, the communication control section111drives the vibrator117in accordance with the received command. Here, the right controller4includes a codec section116. If receiving the above command, the communication control section111outputs a control signal corresponding to the command to the codec section116. The codec section116generates a driving signal for driving the vibrator117from the control signal from the communication control section111and outputs the driving signal to the vibrator117. Consequently, the vibrator117operates. Note that in the present embodiment, the vibrator117is a voice coil motor. That is, the vibrator117is capable of generating a vibration in accordance with the signal input thereto and generating a sound in accordance with the signal. For example, when a signal of a frequency in the audible range is input to the vibrator117, a vibration section271generates a vibration and generates a sound (i.e., an audible sound).

The right controller4includes a power supply section118. In the exemplary embodiment, the power supply section118includes a battery and a power control circuit. Although not shown inFIG. 7, the power control circuit is connected to the battery and also connected to components of the right controller4(specifically, components that receive power supplied from the battery).

Note that although not shown in the figures, the left controller3includes like elements to those of the right controller4shown inFIG. 7.

[1-2. Configuration of Ring-Shaped Extension Apparatus]

FIG. 8is a diagram showing an example of a ring-shaped extension apparatus. Note thatFIG. 8shows the ring-shaped extension apparatus5with the right controller4attached thereto. In the present embodiment, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5is an extension apparatus to which the right controller4can be attached. Although the details will be described later, the user performs a novel operation of applying a force to, and deforming, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5in the present embodiment. The user can operate the ring-shaped extension apparatus5by performing a fitness exercise operation using the ring-shaped extension apparatus5as if the user were doing an exercise, for example.

As shown inFIG. 8, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5includes a ring-shaped portion201and a main portion202. The ring-shaped portion201has a ring shape. Note that in the present embodiment, the ring-shaped portion201includes an elastic member and a base portion and is formed in a ring shape. In the present embodiment, the ring-shaped portion201has a circular ring shape. Note that in other embodiments, the ring-shaped portion201may be of any shape, e.g., an elliptical ring shape.

The main portion202is provided on the ring-shaped portion201. The main portion202includes a rail portion (not shown). The rail portion is an example of an attachment portion to which the right controller4can be attached. In the present embodiment, the rail portion slidably engages with the slider62of the right controller4(seeFIG. 5). As the slider62is inserted into the rail member in a predetermined straight direction (i.e., the slide direction), the rail member engages with the slider62so that the slider62is slidable against the rail member in the straight direction. The rail portion is similar to the rail portion of the main body apparatus2in that it is slidably engageable with the slider of the controller. Therefore, the rail portion may have a similar configuration to that of the rail portion of the main body apparatus2.

In the present embodiment, the direction parallel to the direction (referred to as the “front view direction”) in which the ring formed by the ring-shaped portion201is viewed from front is the front-rear direction of the ring-shaped extension apparatus5(i.e., the Z-axis direction shown inFIG. 8). For example, “the direction in which the ring is viewed from front” is the direction from which the area of the shape represented by the outer edge of the ring appears largest. Where the ring is a circular ring, the “front view direction” can also be said to be the direction from which the ring appears circular.

The rail portion is provided on one side in the front-rear direction relative to the ring-shaped portion201. Note that in the present embodiment, this side is denoted as the front side (in other words, the front near side) of the ring-shaped extension apparatus5, and the opposite side thereto is denoted as the rear side (in other words, the back side) of the ring-shaped extension apparatus5.

In the present embodiment, the right controller4includes a latch portion63(seeFIG. 5). The latch portion63is provided so as to protrude sideways (i.e., the z-axis positive direction shown inFIG. 5) from the slider62. While the latch portion63is allowed to move into the slider62, the latch portion63is urged (e.g., by means of a spring) into the position described above in which the latch portion63is protruding sideways. The rail portion211is provided with a notch219. The latch portion63engages with the notch219in a state where the slider62is inserted to the far end of the rail portion. As the latch portion63engages with the notch219while the rail portion is in engagement with the slider62, the right controller4is attached to the main portion202.

Note that the right controller4includes the release button69that can be pressed (seeFIG. 5). In response to the release button69being pressed, the latch portion63moves into the slider62, achieving the state where the latch portion63no longer (or substantially no longer) protrudes relative to the slider62. Therefore, when the release button69is pressed in the state where the right controller4is attached to the main portion202of the ring-shaped extension apparatus5, the latch portion63is no longer (or is substantially no longer) in engagement with the notch. Thus, in the state where the right controller4is attached to the main portion202of the ring-shaped extension apparatus5, the user can easily remove the right controller4from the ring-shaped extension apparatus5by pressing the release button69.

As shown inFIG. 8, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5includes grip covers203and204. The grip covers203and204are components to be held by the user. In the present embodiment, with the provision of the grip covers203and204, it is easier for the user to hold the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. The details of the grip covers203and204will now be described.

As shown inFIG. 8, in the present embodiment, two grip covers203and204are provided on the ring-shaped portion201. In the present embodiment, the grip covers203and204can be removed from the ring-shaped portion201. The grip covers203and204are put on the grip portions of the ring-shaped portion201. Herein, a grip portion is a portion of the ring-shaped portion201to be held by the user. In the present embodiment, a portion of the ring-shaped portion201near the right end thereof and a portion of the ring-shaped portion201near the left end thereof are the grip portions. That is, it can be said that when the main portion202is located at the central angle of 0° with respect to the center of the ring-shaped portion201, the grip portions are provided at around the position of +90° and at around the position of −90°. Hereinafter, the grip portion near the right end of the ring-shaped portion201will be referred to as the right grip portion, and the grip portion near the left end of the ring-shaped portion201will be referred to as the left grip portion. Although not shown in the figures, each grip portion is provided with an element that allows the grip cover203or204to be put on. Where the grip cover203or204is removable from the ring-shaped portion201as in the present embodiment, the portion where the element that allows the grip cover203or204to be put on is provided can be said to be the grip portion.

Note that the grip portions may have any configuration such that the grip portions can be recognized distinguished from the other portions of the ring-shaped portion201. For example, when portions of the ring-shaped portion201(specifically, a portion near the left end and a portion near the right end of the ring-shaped portion201) are of a different color and/or a different pattern from the other portions, they can be said to be grip portions (as they serve to allow the user to realize that they are the portions to be held for performing operations). When portions of the ring-shaped portion201(specifically, a portion near the left end and a portion near the right end of the ring-shaped portion201) are formed to be thicker than the other portions, they can be said to be grip portions (as they serve to allow the user to realize that they are the portions to be held for performing operations). For example, when similar members to the grip covers are non-removably secured to the ring-shaped portion201, those members can be said to be grip portions. As described above, with the grip portions, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5allows the user to perform operations while holding appropriate positions thereof.

FIG. 9is a block diagram showing an electrical connection relationship between components of the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. As shown inFIG. 9, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5includes a strain detector211. The strain detector211is an example of a detector that detects deformation of the ring-shaped portion201. In the present embodiment, the strain detector291includes a strain gauge. The strain detector211outputs a signal representing the strain of the base portion242in accordance with the deformation of the elastic member described below (in other words, a signal representing the magnitude of deformation and the direction of deformation of the elastic member).

Herein, in the present embodiment, the ring-shaped portion201includes an elastically-deformable elastic portion and a base portion. The base portion holds the opposite end portions of the elastic member so that the base portion and the elastic member together form a ring shape. Note that the base portion is not shown inFIG. 8since the base portion is provided inside the main portion202. The base portion is made of a material having a higher rigidity than the elastic member. For example, the elastic member is made of a resin (e.g., an FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastics)), and the base portion is made of a metal. The strain gauge is provided on the base portion and detects the strain of the base portion. When the ring-shaped portion201deforms from the normal state, a strain occurs on the base portion due to the deformation, and the strain on the base portion is detected by the strain gauge. Based on the detected strain, it is possible to calculate the direction in which the ring-shaped portion201deforms (i.e., whether it is the direction in which the two grip covers203and204move closer to each other or the direction in which they move away from each other) and calculate the amount of deformation.

Note that in other embodiments, the strain detector211may include, instead of the strain gauge, any sensor that is capable of detecting the deformation of the ring-shaped portion201from the normal state. For example, the detector211may include a pressure sensor for detecting the pressure that is applied when the ring-shaped portion201is deformed, or may include a bend sensor for detecting the amount by which the ring-shaped portion201is bent.

The ring-shaped extension apparatus5includes a signal converter212. In the present embodiment, the signal converter212includes an amplifier and an AD converter. The signal converter212is electrically connected to the strain detector211so as to amplify the output signal from the strain detector211through the amplifier and performs an AD conversion through the AD converter. The signal converter212outputs a digital signal representing the strain value detected by the strain detector211. Note that in other embodiments, the signal converter212may not include an AD converter, and a control section213to be described below may include an AD converter.

The ring-shaped extension apparatus5includes the control section213. The control section213is a processing circuit including a processor and a memory, and is an MCU (Micro Controller Unit), for example. The control section213is electrically connected to the signal converter212, and the output signal from the signal converter212is input to the control section213. The ring-shaped extension apparatus5includes the terminal214. The terminal214is electrically connected to the processing section213. When the right controller4is attached to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5, a control section213sends information representing the strain value that is represented by the output signal from the signal converter212(in other words, the ring operation data) to the right controller4through the terminal214.

The ring-shaped extension apparatus5includes a power converter215. The power converter215is electrically connected to the sections211to214. The power converter215supplies power, which is supplied from the outside (e.g., the right controller4) through the terminal214, to the sections211to214. The power converter215may supply the supplied power to the sections211to214after voltage adjustment, etc.

Note that the “data regarding the detection result of the strain detector” that is transmitted by the ring-shaped extension apparatus5to another device may be data representing the detection result (in the present embodiment, the output signal from the strain detector211representing the strain of the base portion) itself, or may be data that is obtained by performing some processes on the detection result (e.g., data format conversion and/or an arithmetic process on the strain value, etc.). For example, the control section213may perform a process of calculating the amount of deformation of the elastic member based on the strain value, which is the detection result, and the “data regarding the detection result of the strain detector” may be data that represents the amount of deformation.

Note that in other embodiments, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5may include a battery and may operate by using power from the battery. The battery of the ring-shaped extension apparatus5may be a rechargeable battery that can be charged by power supplied from the right controller4.

FIG. 10is a diagram showing an example of how the ring-shaped extension apparatus5is used by the user. As shown inFIG. 10, the user can play a game using the ring-shaped extension apparatus5in addition to a game apparatus (e.g., the main body apparatus2and the controllers3and4).

For example, as shown inFIG. 10, the user holds the ring-shaped extension apparatus5with the right controller4attached thereto with both hands. The user can play a game by performing an operation using the ring-shaped extension apparatus5(e.g., an operation of deforming the ring-shaped extension apparatus5and an operation of moving the ring-shaped extension apparatus5).

Note thatFIG. 10shows an example of how the user holds the grip covers203and204and deforms the ring-shaped extension apparatus5by pushing in the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. Through this action, the user can perform, as a game operation, a fitness exercise operation of training the arms. Note that the user can perform a game operation through any of various operations performed using the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. For example, the user can perform an operation of deforming the ring-shaped extension apparatus5with one of the grip covers held by both hands and the other grip cover pressed against the belly. Through this action, the user can perform, as a game operation, a fitness exercise operation of training the arms and the abdominal muscles. The user can perform the operation of deforming the ring-shaped extension apparatus5while holding the ring-shaped extension apparatus5between the legs with the grip covers203and204pressed against the inner thighs of the legs. Through this action, the user can perform, as a game operation, a fitness exercise operation of training the leg muscles. Thus, according to the present embodiment, by using the ring-shaped extension apparatus5, which has a ring shape, the user can perform a wide variety of fitness exercise operations.

2. Outline of Operation on Right Controller4and Ring-Shaped Extension Apparatus5

Referring toFIG. 11toFIG. 13, the operation on the right controller4and the operation on the ring-shaped extension apparatus5with the right controller4attached thereto will be described. In the present embodiment, the right controller4and the ring-shaped extension apparatus5can operate in two different modes, i.e., the main body operation mode and the independent operation mode. The main body operation mode is a mode in which the right controller4and the ring-shaped extension apparatus5operate together with the main body apparatus2, and in which the main body apparatus2executes a process based on an input made by the user using the right controller4and/or the ring-shaped extension apparatus5(e.g., a process of the application being executed by the main body apparatus2). The independent operation mode is a mode in which the right controller4and the ring-shaped extension apparatus5execute a process independently of the main body apparatus2. In the independent operation mode, a process based on an input made by the user using the right controller4and/or the ring-shaped extension apparatus5is executed, not on the main body apparatus2, but on the right controller4and the ring-shaped extension apparatus5.

[2-1. Flow of Process in Main Body Operation Mode]

FIG. 11is a diagram showing an example of a basic flow of data between apparatuses in the main body operation mode. In the main body operation mode, the relationship between the right controller4and the ring-shaped extension apparatus5is such that communication is made with the right controller4being the master and the ring-shaped extension apparatus5being the slave. That is, in the main body operation mode, the right controller4requests the ring-shaped extension apparatus5to transmit data, and the ring-shaped extension apparatus5transmits the data to the right controller4in response to this request.

First, the main body apparatus2transmits a transmission request signal to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5(step S1). The transmission request signal is a signal for requesting the addressee of the signal to transmit data. Note that the transmission request signal may or may not include the operation of the addressee apparatus or content of data to be transmitted. For example, the transmission request signal may be a signal representing a command that indicates an instruction to the addressee apparatus. For example, where it is specified in the communication protocol to transmit predetermined data in response to receiving the transmission request signal, the transmission request signal does not need to include the instruction to the addressee apparatus but may be of any content such that the transmission request signal can be distinguished from other signals. Note that in the present embodiment, the transmission request signal is transmitted to the right controller4at a transmission timing that iterates at the rate of once per a predetermined amount of time.

When transmitting the transmission request signal, the main body apparatus2transmits, to the right controller4, a command that instructs the right controller4to execute a predetermined operation, as necessary. For example, the command may be an output command representing an instruction for the right controller4to output a sound and a vibration and/or a lighting command representing an instruction to light the indicator LEDs67, etc.

The right controller4having received the transmission request signal first obtains data from the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. Specifically, the right controller4transmits the transmission request signal to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5(step S2). In response to receiving the transmission request signal from the right controller4, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5transmits ring operation data to the right controller4(step S3). Thus, the right controller4obtains the ring operation data from the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. Note that the ring operation data is data representing the operation performed using the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. In the present embodiment, the ring operation data includes information representing the strain value. Specifically, the control section213of the ring-shaped extension apparatus5transmits the ring operation data to the right controller4via the terminal214.

Note that the content of data that the right controller4obtains from the ring-shaped extension apparatus5may be specified by the main body apparatus2. For example, the transmission request signal transmitted from the main body apparatus2to the right controller4may include information (e.g., information representing the ring operation data) that specifies data to be obtained from the ring-shaped extension apparatus5.

Next, the right controller4wirelessly transmits, to the main body apparatus2, the ring operation data received from the ring-shaped extension apparatus5and controller data (step S4). The controller data is data representing an input performed using the right controller4. In the present embodiment, the controller data includes information that is obtained from the input sections included in the right controller4(specifically, the buttons113, the analog stick52, the sensors114and115). Note that the communication control section111of the right controller4may transmit the controller data and the ring operation data together to the main body apparatus2or may transmit the controller data and the ring operation data separately to the main body apparatus2. The communication control section111may transmit data based on the ring operation data to the main body apparatus2. Note that “data based on the ring operation data” may for example be the ring operation data itself, or may be data that is obtained by performing some processes on the ring operation data (e.g., data formation conversion and/or arithmetic operation on the strain value, etc.). Note that in the main body operation mode, as opposed to the independent operation mode to be described below, the right controller4does not transmit the controller data to the peripheral apparatus, and the peripheral apparatus does not receive the controller data from the right controller4.

When a command is received, together with the transmission request signal, from the main body apparatus2, the right controller4performs an operation in accordance with the command (step S5). For example, the right controller4vibrates the vibrator117in response to receiving the output command. The right controller4lights the indicator LEDs67in response to receiving the lighting command.

Note that in the present embodiment, the right controller4executes the process of steps S2, S4and S5in response to receiving the transmission request signal (and the command) from the main body apparatus2. Note that in other embodiments, the right controller4may execute the processes of steps S4and S5in response to receiving the transmission request signal (and the command) from the main body apparatus2, while executing the process of step S2at a timing that is different from the reception. In other embodiments, the right controller4may execute the process of transmitting to the main body apparatus2at a timing that is determined in itself (e.g., a timing that iterates at the rate of once per a predetermined amount of time), instead of at a timing that is in accordance with the transmission request signal from the main body apparatus2.

The main body apparatus2receives data from the right controller4and executes a process based on the received data (step S6). Specifically, the main body apparatus2executes a process of the application being executed based on the received data. This process may be of any content. For example, when a game application is being executed, the main body apparatus2executes a game process (e.g., a process of controlling the action of the player character, or a process of giving an influence an object in the game space) based on the received data. In the main body operation mode, the series of processes of steps S1to S6is repeatedly executed.

Note that in the present embodiment, the right controller4can operate alone, i.e., where it is not attached to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. Then, the main body apparatus2and the right controller4execute those of the series of processes of steps S1to S6shown inFIG. 11that exclude the processes of S2and S3. In the present embodiment, the mode of operation in which the processes of steps S1, S4to S6are executed by the right controller4not attached to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5and the main body apparatus2is also referred to as the main body operation mode.

[2-2. Flow of Process in Independent Operation Mode]

FIG. 12is a diagram showing an example of a basic flow of process and data in the independent operation mode. In the independent operation mode, as opposed to the main body operation mode, communication is made with the ring-shaped extension apparatus5being the master and the right controller4being the slave. That is, in the independent operation mode, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5requests the right controller4to transmit data, and the right controller4transmits the data to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5in response to this request.

Specifically, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5transmits the transmission request signal to the right controller4(step S11). In the present embodiment, the transmission request signal is transmitted to the right controller4at a transmission timing that iterates at the rate of once per a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 10 [ms]). In the present embodiment, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5transmits the transmission request signal to the right controller4for reach iteration of the transmission timing.

At the transmission timing, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5transmits, to the right controller4, a command that causes the right controller4to execute a predetermined operation, as necessary, in addition to the transmission request signal. For example, the command may be an output command representing an instruction for the right controller4to output a sound and a vibration and/or a lighting command representing an instruction to light the indicator LEDs67, etc. Note that at the transmission timing, when there is no need to cause the right controller4to perform an operation, only the transmission request signal is transmitted, and the command is not transmitted.

The right controller4transmits the controller data in response to receiving the transmission request signal from the ring-shaped extension apparatus5(step S12). Herein, in the present embodiment, the controller data transmitted from the right controller4to the main body apparatus2and the controller data transmitted from the right controller4to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5are of the same content. Note however that in other embodiments, they may be of different content. Herein, in the independent operation mode, the process executed by the peripheral apparatus to which the right controller4is attached (herein, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5) is expected to be a simpler process as compared with a process to be executed by the main body apparatus2in the main body operation mode. Therefore, the right controller4may use a portion of the controller data transmitted to the main body apparatus2as the controller data transmitted to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. Thus, it is possible to reduce the amount of data of the controller data transmitted to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. For example, where the right controller4includes a camera, the right controller4may transmit the data of an image captured by the camera to the main body apparatus2, in which case the right controller4may not transmit the data of the image to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5.

Note that in the independent operation mode, as opposed to the main body operation mode, the right controller4does not transmit the controller data to the main body apparatus2(seeFIG. 12). Note that in the independent operation mode, while the main body apparatus2does not communicate with the right controller4, the main body apparatus2does not need to be in the sleep mode, and it may resume from the sleep mode and execute some processes.

When a command is received from the ring-shaped extension apparatus5, the right controller4performs an operation in accordance with the command (step S13). For example, the right controller4vibrates the vibrator117in response to receiving the output command. The right controller4lights the indicator LEDs67in response to receiving the lighting command.

The ring-shaped extension apparatus5receives the controller data from the right controller4, and executes a process based on the received controller data (step S14). The ring-shaped extension apparatus5executes a process based on the strain value detected by the strain detector211thereof. Although the details will be described later, in the present embodiment, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5executes a process of causing the right controller4to output a sound and a vibration in response to the operation of deforming the ring-shaped extension apparatus5, and executes a process of turning ON/OFF a sound and a vibration in response to an input to the right controller4, etc.

In the process of step S14, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5generates a command to the right controller4, as necessary. In the independent operation mode, the series of processes of steps S1lto S14are repeatedly executed. Therefore, the command generated in step S14is transmitted to the right controller4in the process of step S1lto be executed next.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the right controller4and the ring-shaped extension apparatus5can operate not only in the main body operation mode in which the main body apparatus2executes processes, but also in the independent operation mode in which they execute processes independently of the main body apparatus2. Therefore, the user can use the right controller4and the ring-shaped extension apparatus5operating in the independent operation mode during a period in which no application is being executed on the main body apparatus2. For example, the user can perform a fitness exercise operation using the ring-shaped extension apparatus5also during a period in which no application is being executed on the main body apparatus2.

In the present embodiment, data representing the record of the fitness exercise operation performed while in the independent operation mode, and when an application using the ring-shaped extension apparatus5is thereafter executed on the main body apparatus2, the main body apparatus2executes the game process based on the data. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the results of a fitness exercise operation performed by the user during the period in which no application is being executed can be reflected in the application.

Note that the right controller4and the ring-shaped extension apparatus5may be able to operate in another mode different from the main body operation mode and the independent operation mode. For example, the right controller4is capable of operating in a main body-attached mode to be described below while attached to the main body apparatus2. In addition to operating in any of these modes, the right controller4is capable of being in the sleep mode. In the sleep mode, the right controller4does not perform data communication with another apparatus (excluding the signal exchange for starting wireless communication), but accepts an input to operation sections thereof (e.g., the buttons113and the analog stick52). In the sleep mode, when an input to an operation section is detected, the right controller4resumes from the sleep mode.

As described above, in the present embodiment, in the independent operation mode, based on the peripheral apparatus data (herein, ring operation data) in accordance with a user input detected by a sensor (herein, the strain detector211), a peripheral apparatus (herein, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5) generates a command for causing the right controller4to execute a predetermined operation and transmits the command to the right controller4. With such a configuration, in the independent operation mode, since the right controller4operates in accordance with the command from the peripheral apparatus, the process of the right controller4in the independent operation mode can be a general-purpose process so that a game controller is easily compatible with different types of peripheral apparatuses. Since the process on the right controller4can be made simple, it is possible to reduce the amount of data of the program and data for executing the process, and it is possible to reduce the amount of data on the right controller4.

Now, consider a case where the right controller4is attachable to a plurality of types of peripheral apparatuses, wherein the right controller4and the peripheral apparatus operate differently depending on the peripheral apparatus in the independent operation mode. In such a case, assuming that the right controller4executes a different process for each peripheral apparatus (e.g., a process of causing the right controller4to give a different output for each peripheral apparatus depending on a user input to the peripheral apparatus), programs and data for different processes are stored in the right controller4, thereby possibly increasing the amount of data on the right controller4and limiting the storage area of the right controller4. In contrast, in the present embodiment, even if different processes are executed in the independent operation mode for different peripheral apparatuses, a common process can be used on the right controller4. For example, for the process of causing the right controller4to give an output depending on a user input to the peripheral apparatus, a command for giving an output is generated on the peripheral apparatus side, and the right controller4is made to execute an operation in accordance with the command, thereby realizing a common process to be performed on the right controller4, irrespective of the type of the peripheral apparatus. Thus, the right controller4can be used as a general-purpose controller that is easily compatible with different peripheral apparatuses. By improving the general-purpose-ness of the process performed on the right controller4in the independent operation mode, it is possible to reduce the amount of data to be stored for processes on the right controller4.

In the present embodiment, the peripheral apparatus is configured to, in the independent operation mode, transmit the transmission request signal to the right controller4and execute a process based on the controller data transmitted from the right controller4in response to the right controller4receiving the transmission request signal. Then, for example, a process based on an input to the right controller4(e.g., a process of turning ON/OFF the output of a sound and a vibration from the right controller4depending on the input to the buttons of the right controller4) can be executed on the peripheral apparatus side where the controller data is received. Thus, processes that vary for different peripheral apparatuses can be executed on the peripheral apparatus side, and processes that are common between different peripheral apparatuses can easily be executed on the right controller4side. Also with this configuration, it can be said that the process of the right controller4in the independent operation mode can be a general-purpose process. That is, also with the configuration described above, the right controller4can be used as a general-purpose controller. With the configuration described above, it is possible to suppress the increase in the processes to be executed on the right controller4, and it is possible to reduce the amount of data on the right controller4by reducing programs and data used for processes.

Note that in the independent operation mode, the right controller4receives, from the peripheral apparatus, a command in accordance with the controller data transmitted to the peripheral apparatus, and operates in accordance with the command. In the main body operation mode, the right controller4receives, from the main body apparatus2, a command in accordance with the controller data transmitted to the main body apparatus2, and operates in accordance with the command. Thus, by making the right controller4operate in accordance with a command from another apparatus in either mode, it is possible to simplify the process on the right controller4and it is possible to reduce the amount of data of programs and data for the process.

In the present embodiment, in the independent operation mode, the peripheral apparatus receives, from the right controller4, controller data in accordance with a user input to the right controller4. Thus, a process based on a user input to the right controller4can be executed on the peripheral apparatus side. Based on the controller data, the peripheral apparatus generates a command for causing the right controller4to execute a predetermined operation, and transmits the command to the right controller. Thus, a process for causing the right controller4to perform an operation can be executed on the peripheral apparatus side. For example, if the operation to be executed by the right controller4in accordance with a particular button input to the right controller4(e.g., to output a vibration, etc.) is varied for each peripheral apparatus and the correspondence between each button input and an associated operation for each of a plurality of peripheral apparatuses is stored in the right controller4, it possibly increases the storage capacity needed for the right controller4. In contrast, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to suppress the increase in the storage capacity needed for the right controller4.

Note that in the present embodiment, the peripheral apparatus receives, from the right controller4, controller data for operable ones (specifically, the buttons53to58,60and61) of the buttons on the right controller4. Note that since the second L button65and the second R button66are not operable when the right controller4is attached to the peripheral apparatus, the right controller4does not need to transmit data for these buttons65and66. According to the description above, the peripheral apparatus can execute processes based on inputs to the operable buttons on the right controller4. Since the content of the controller data to be transmitted to the peripheral apparatus from the right controller4can be made common between different peripheral apparatuses, the process on the right controller4can be a general-purpose process. Note that in this process, the peripheral apparatus can transmit, to the right controller4, a command that is based on a portion of the controller data and that is not based on the other portion of the controller data. Specifically, the peripheral apparatus may generate a command based on a portion of the controller data but not based on the other portion of the controller data, or the peripheral apparatus may generate a plurality of commands based on all of the controller data, and transmit one of a plurality of commands (that is generated not based on the portion of the controller data) to the right controller4. As described above, the peripheral apparatus does not need to execute the process by using all the data for different buttons included in the controller data. In other embodiments, the peripheral apparatus may receive, from the right controller4, controller data relating to all of the operation sections (e.g., the buttons and the analog stick) of the right controller4.

[2-3. Process Until Start of Operation in Each Mode]

Next, the process until the start of each mode described above will be described below. In the present embodiment, after resumption from the sleep mode, the right controller4starts operating in a mode in response to the satisfaction of a condition for that mode, from among different conditions for different modes. Although the details will be described later, when the right controller4is attached to a peripheral apparatus, information representing the mode of operation (the mode information to be described below) is transmitted from the right controller4to the peripheral apparatus so that the peripheral apparatus also operates in the same mode as the right controller4.

The independent operation mode is started on the condition that a predetermined start operation on the right controller4is detected in a state where the wireless connection between the right controller4and the main body apparatus2has not been established and the right controller4is attached to a peripheral apparatus that is compatible with the independent operation mode (i.e., a peripheral apparatus that is capable of operating in the independent operation mode). Herein, the state where the wireless connection between the right controller4and the main body apparatus2has been established is the state where data can be exchanged between the right controller4and the main body apparatus2via wireless communication. Note that the state where the wireless connection has not been established does not only refer to the state where radio waves from one apparatus cannot be received by the other apparatus. Even in the state where the wireless connection has not been established, the right controller4and the main body apparatus2can execute a communication process for establishing the wireless connection. Note that the right controller4in the sleep mode is in the state where the wireless connection with the main body apparatus2has not been established.

In the present embodiment, the start operation is an operation of pressing down the analog stick52. Note however that the start operation may be any input that is performed using the right controller4. The start operation may be an input that is performed while the right controller4is in the sleep mode. That is, when the start operation is performed on the right controller4in the state where the right controller4in the sleep mode is attached to a peripheral apparatus that is compatible with the independent operation mode, the right controller4resumes from the sleep mode and starts operating in the independent operation mode.

On the other hand, the main body operation mode is started on the condition that the wireless connection between the right controller4and the main body apparatus2is established after the right controller4resumes from the sleep mode. Herein, when an input on an operation section of the right controller4is detected in the state where the wireless connection with the main body apparatus2has not been established (excluding a case where the independent operation mode is started in response to the start operation described above and a case where it is operating in the independent operation mode), the right controller4executes a communication process for establishing the wireless connection between the right controller4and the main body apparatus2. When a wireless connection is established therebetween through this communication process, the right controller4operates in the main body operation mode. Note that in the communication process, when the main body apparatus2is in the sleep mode or when radio waves from the right controller4are not received by the main body apparatus2, a wireless connection is not established. In this case, the main body operation mode is not started, and the state where the operation mode of the right controller4is undecided is maintained. Note that the input performed using the right controller4for executing the communication process may be any input, e.g., a predetermined input using the right controller4(e.g., an input on the first R button60or an input on the first R button60and the ZR button61).

When an input on the home button58is detected in the state where the wireless connection with the main body apparatus2has not been established, the right controller4executes the communication process after transmitting, to the main body apparatus2, a resume signal for causing the main body apparatus2to resume from the sleep mode. That is, if the user wishes to establish the wireless connection between the main body apparatus2in the sleep mode and the right controller4, the user can press the home button58of the right controller4. Note that when an input on the home button58of the right controller4is detected after the main body apparatus2has resumed from the sleep mode, the main body apparatus2may behave in any manner. For example, when an input on the home button58is detected while an application is being executed, the main body apparatus2may pause the application being executed and display a menu image on the main body apparatus2. When an input on the home button58is detected while the menu image is displayed, the main body apparatus2may transition to the sleep mode.

As described above, the user can make the right controller4operate in the main body operation mode as follows, for example.Perform an input on an operation section of the right controller4being in the sleep mode in the state where the right controller4is not attached to a peripheral apparatus. Moreover, the user can make the right controller4and the peripheral apparatus operate in the main body operation mode by attaching the right controller4in the main body operation mode to the peripheral apparatus (e.g., the ring-shaped extension apparatus5).Perform an input that is different from the start operation described above to resume the right controller4, being in the sleep mode and attached to the peripheral apparatus, from the sleep mode.

Note that when the right controller4is used while being attached to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5in an application that is executed on the main body apparatus2, the user can establish the wireless connection between the right controller4and the main body apparatus2before or after the execution of the application and have the right controller4operate in the main body operation mode. In this process, the user can make the right controller4operate in the main body operation mode and then attach the right controller4to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5so that they both operate in the main body operation mode, or the user can attach the right controller4to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5and then make the right controller4operate in the main body operation mode so that they both operate in the main body operation mode.

Note that when the right controller4is attached to the main body apparatus2, the right controller4operates in the main body-attached mode. Herein, the main body-attached mode is a mode in which the main body apparatus2executes a process based on a user input to the right controller4. In the main body-attached mode, the main body apparatus2requests the right controller4to transmit data, and the right controller4transmits the data to the main body apparatus2in response to this request. The process performed by the right controller4in the main body-attached mode is similar to the process performed by the right controller4in the independent operation mode in that the right controller4operates in accordance with the command from the apparatus to which the right controller4is attached (herein, the main body apparatus2or the ring-shaped extension apparatus5). Therefore, in the present embodiment, the right controller4can use the program for the process in the main body-attached mode, as the program for the process in the independent operation mode. Thus, it is possible to reduce the amount of data stored in the right controller4.

FIG. 13is a diagram showing an example of a flow of processes executed when the right controller4is attached to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. The process shown inFIG. 13is started in response to the attachment of the right controller4, having resumed from the sleep mode, to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5, or in response to the resumption from the sleep mode of the right controller4attached to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5.

First, the right controller4executes a checking process of checking the apparatus to which the right controller4is attached (step S21). The checking process is a process of checking the type of the apparatus to which the right controller4is attached. Herein, the peripheral apparatus that can be attached to the right controller4(and the main body apparatus2) includes a checking electronic component, and the ring-shaped extension apparatus5also includes a checking electronic component216(seeFIG. 9). The checking electronic component is an electronic component used for the right controller4to check the type of the peripheral apparatus (and the main body apparatus2), and is different from the electric elements that are powered by power supplied from the right controller4(e.g., the strain detector211, the signal converter212and the control section213). The checking electronic component may be any electronic component having a resistance value. As shown inFIG. 9, the checking electronic component216is not connected to the power converter215, and does not need to receive power supply via the power converter215. In the present embodiment, the checking electronic component has a resistance value depending on the type of the peripheral apparatus. As shown inFIG. 9, the checking electronic component is electrically connected to the terminal of the peripheral apparatus, and when the right controller4is attached to the peripheral apparatus, the terminal64of the right controller4is electrically connected to the checking electronic component. Thus, the electric elements on the right controller4side and the checking electronic component on the peripheral apparatus side together form a circuit (referred to as the “checking circuit”). In the present embodiment, a peripheral apparatus (e.g., the ring-shaped extension apparatus5) that is compatible with the independent operation mode includes a checking electronic component having a predetermined resistance value. Thus, the right controller4can determine the type of the peripheral apparatus (herein, at least whether it is a peripheral apparatus of the type that corresponds to the independent operation mode) based on the resistance value of the checking circuit that is formed as the right controller4is attached to the peripheral apparatus.

In the checking process, the right controller4detects the resistance value of the checking circuit. Then, the right controller4determines whether or not the detected resistance value is in a determination range that includes the predetermined value described above. The determination is a process of determining whether or not the peripheral apparatus to which the right controller4is attached is a peripheral apparatus that is compatible with the independent operation mode. Note that in the present embodiment, the determination range is used for the determination in view of the possibility that there may be an error in the detected resistance value. The extent of the predetermined range can be determined appropriately.

Note that in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the main body apparatus2includes a checking electronic component having a resistance value that is outside the determination range and that is different from that of the checking electronic component of the peripheral apparatus. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the right controller4can also determine whether or not the apparatus to which the right controller4is attached is the main body apparatus2based on the detected resistance value. When it is determined in step S21that the right controller4is attached to the main body apparatus2, the right controller4ends the process shown inFIG. 13and starts operating in the main body-attached mode.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the peripheral apparatus to which the right controller4is attached is a peripheral apparatus that is compatible with the independent operation mode, the right controller4starts supplying power to the peripheral apparatus (herein, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5) (step S22). Note that although not shown in the figures, when it is not determined that the peripheral apparatus to which the right controller4is attached is a peripheral apparatus that is compatible with the independent operation mode, the right controller4does not start supplying power to the peripheral apparatus, ends the process shown inFIG. 13, and enters the sleep mode.

Note that in other embodiments, there may be a peripheral apparatus that is not compatible with the independent operation mode but is capable of receiving power supply from the right controller4. Such a peripheral apparatus includes a checking electronic component whose resistance value is different from that of the checking electronic component of a peripheral apparatus compatible with the independent operation mode and different from that of the checking electronic component of a peripheral apparatus that is not capable of receiving power supply from the right controller4. Although it is not determined that the peripheral apparatus to which the right controller4is attached is a peripheral apparatus that is compatible with the independent operation mode, the right controller4may supply power to the peripheral apparatus. Note that in such a case, the right controller4does not operate in the independent operation mode, but operates in the main body operation mode on the condition that the wireless connection between the right controller4and the main body apparatus2has been established, for example.

The ring-shaped extension apparatus5starts up in response to the start of the power supply from the right controller4. After the start-up, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5is in the stand-by state waiting for mode information described below to be transmitted from the right controller4(step S23). Note that at this point, the mode in which the ring-shaped extension apparatus5operates is undecided.

On the other hand, when the condition for starting the main body operation mode or the independent operation mode is satisfied after the start of the power supply, the right controller4transmits the mode information to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5(step S24). The mode information represents the mode in which the right controller4and the peripheral apparatus attached thereto should operate.

Note that in the present embodiment, as described above, the condition for starting the main body operation mode is the establishment of the wireless connection between the right controller4and the main body apparatus2. For example, when the process shown inFIG. 13is started in response to an input different from the start operation performed using the right controller4being in the sleep mode, thereby causing the right controller4to resume from the sleep mode, the right controller4executes the process of step S24in response to the establishment of the wireless connection with the main body apparatus2after step S22. When the condition for starting the main body operation mode is satisfied, in the process of step S24, the right controller4transmits mode information representing the main body operation mode to the peripheral apparatus (herein, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5). When the right controller4is operating in the main body operation mode at the start of the process shown inFIG. 13(i.e., when the right controller4operating in the main body operation mode is attached to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5), the right controller4executes the process of step S24following step S22.

As described above, the condition for starting the independent operation mode is that the wireless connection between the right controller4and the main body apparatus2has not been established and that the start operation is performed using the right controller4attached to a peripheral apparatus that is compatible with the independent operation mode. For example, the right controller4resumes from the sleep mode in response to the start operation performed using the right controller4, which is in the sleep mode and attached to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. If the process shown inFIG. 13is started because the right controller4resumes from the sleep mode in such a manner, the right controller4executes the process of step S24after step S22. When the condition for starting the independent operation mode is satisfied, in the process of step S24, the right controller4transmits mode information, representing the independent operation mode, to the peripheral apparatus (herein, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5).

When the mode information from the right controller4is received, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5responds to this for acknowledging the receipt of the mode information (step S25). Then, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5starts operating in the mode indicated by the mode information (step S26).

On the other hand, the right controller4starts operating in the mode indicated by the mode information in response to receiving the response from the ring-shaped extension apparatus5(step S27). Thus, the right controller4and the ring-shaped extension apparatus5both start operating in the same mode.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the peripheral apparatus (herein, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5) is powered by power supplied from the right controller4electrically connected to the peripheral apparatus. When the peripheral apparatus starts up based on the power supplied from the right controller4, the peripheral apparatus is in the stand-by state waiting for receiving, from the right controller4, mode information that indicates one of a plurality of modes in which the peripheral apparatus should operate. In this process, the right controller4generates the mode information and transmits the mode information to the peripheral apparatus. Then, the peripheral apparatus operates in the mode indicated by the mode information that is received from the right controller4in the stand-by state. The peripheral apparatus is not capable of determining, by itself, which mode the peripheral apparatus should be operating at the time of start-up. However, according to the description above, the peripheral apparatus can operate in an appropriate mode in accordance with the right controller4after the start-up of the peripheral apparatus.

In the present embodiment, a peripheral apparatus is a part of a circuit that is formed through electrical connection between the right controller and the peripheral apparatus, and includes a checking electronic component having a predetermined resistance value. Then, the right controller4can determine the information (e.g., the type) of the peripheral apparatus by detecting the resistance value of the circuit.

Moreover, in the present embodiment, the resistance value of a checking circuit that is formed through electrical connection between a peripheral apparatus that is compatible with the independent operation mode and the right controller4is a first value, and the resistance value of a checking circuit that is formed through electrical connection between a peripheral apparatus that is not compatible with the independent operation mode and the right controller4is a second value different from the first value. On the condition that the resistance value of the checking circuit is within a predetermined range (e.g., the determination range) that includes the first value and does not include the second value, the right controller4transmits mode information representing the independent operation mode to the apparatus. Then, it is possible to prevent mode information representing the independent operation mode from being transmitted to a peripheral apparatus that is not compatible with the independent operation mode, and it is possible to prevent the right controller4from erroneously operating in the independent operation mode when the right controller4is attached to the peripheral apparatus.

In the present embodiment, when the resistance value of the checking circuit is in a first range (e.g., the determination range), the right controller4is capable of operating in the independent operation mode and also capable of operating in the main body operation mode. On the other hand, when the resistance value of the checking circuit is in a second range different from the first range, the right controller4is capable of operating in the main body operation mode and is prohibited from operating in the independent operation mode (i.e., does not operate in the independent operation mode). Also with such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the right controller4from erroneously operating in the independent operation mode when the right controller4is attached to a peripheral apparatus that is not compatible with the independent operation mode.

In the present embodiment, the right controller4detects the resistance value and determines whether or not the detected resistance value is within the first range. Herein, any method may be used to determine that “the resistance value is within the first range” and to determine that “the resistance value is within the second range different from the first range”. For example, the right controller4may perform such a determination based on a parameter that is correlated to the resistance value (in other words, a parameter based on which the resistance value can be calculated, e.g., voltage or power), instead of the resistance value.

The right controller4operates in the independent operation mode, in response to detecting a predetermined input (e.g., the start operation) performed using the right controller4while the right controller4is attached to the peripheral apparatus and the communication connection with the main body apparatus2has not been established, at least on the condition that the resistance value of the checking circuit formed through electrical connection between the right controller4and the peripheral apparatus is within the determination range. Then, the user can make the right controller4start the independent operation mode at a desired timing, and it is possible to prevent the right controller4from erroneously operating in the independent operation mode when the right controller4is attached to a peripheral apparatus that is not compatible with the independent operation mode.

At least on the condition that the resistance value of the checking circuit is within the determination range (more specifically, in response to detecting the resistance value within the determination range), the right controller4supplies power to other parts of the peripheral apparatus (specifically, the strain detector211, the signal converter212and the control section213) different from the part thereof that forms the checking circuit. Note that when the resistance value of the checking circuit is not within the determination range, the right controller4does not supply power to the peripheral apparatus. Then, it is possible to prevent the right controller4from erroneously supplying power to a peripheral apparatus that does not need to receive power supply. It is also possible to prevent an unauthorized peripheral apparatus (e.g., an apparatus that functions the same as the ring-shaped extension apparatus5but the resistance value of the checking circuit thereof is outside the determination range) from operating when the right controller4is attached to the unauthorized peripheral apparatus.

[2-4. Specific Example of Processes in Independent Operation Mode]

Next, a specific example of processes performed on the ring-shaped extension apparatus5in the independent operation mode will be described. In the independent operation mode, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5detects an operation by the user deforming the ring-shaped extension apparatus5, and counts and stores the number of times the operation is performed. The processes to be executed in the independent operation mode will now be described.

The ring-shaped extension apparatus5detects a push-in operation and a pull operation performed thereon. Note that a push-in operation is an operation of deforming the ring-shaped portion201in a direction (referred to as the “push-in direction”) such that the two grip portions of the ring-shaped extension apparatus5come closer to each other. A pull operation is an operation of deforming the ring-shaped portion201in a direction (referred to as the “pull direction”) such that the two grip portions move away from each other. Note that the amount of deformation of the ring-shaped extension apparatus5can be calculated based on the strain value output from the strain detector211, and a push-in operation or a pull operation can be detected based on the amount of deformation. Specifically, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5detects a push-in operation when the amount of deformation in the push-in direction is greater than a predetermined push-in threshold, and detects a pull operation when the amount of deformation in the pull direction is greater than a predetermined pull threshold. The ring-shaped extension apparatus5keeps the operation count by incrementing the count each time a push-in operation or a pull operation is detected. The ring-shaped extension apparatus5stores the operation count in a memory of the control section213. In the present embodiment, the memory is a non-volatile memory and retains the data even after the power supply to the peripheral apparatus is stopped. Note that in the main body operation mode, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5does not keep or store the operation count.

Note that while the ring-shaped extension apparatus5keeps the total operation count, including the push-in operation count and the pull operation count, without distinguishing between these operations in the present embodiment, it may separately keep the push-in operation count and the pull operation count in other embodiments.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the peripheral apparatus includes a memory that stores the number of times a user input is detected by a sensor (e.g., the strain detector211) in the independent operation mode. Specifically, the peripheral apparatus determines whether or not the value detected by the sensor is greater than a predetermined threshold, and increments the user input count when it is determined that the detected value is greater than the threshold. Then, the game system1can execute a process (e.g., a process of an application executed on the main body apparatus2) after the end of the independent operation mode by using inputs that have been made by the user while in the independent operation mode.

The ring-shaped extension apparatus5causes the right controller4to output a sound and a vibration in accordance with a push-in operation and a pull operation. In the present embodiment, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5causes the right controller4to output a sound and a vibration at a timing in accordance with the detection of a push-in operation and at a timing in accordance with the detection of a pull operation.

Note that the ring-shaped extension apparatus5may cause the right controller4to output a sound and a vibration at any timing in accordance with an operation. For example, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5may cause the right controller4to output a sound and a vibration at a timing when the amount of deformation moves across the push-in threshold and at a timing when the amount of deformation moves across the pull threshold. Note that a timing when the amount of deformation moves across threshold means to include both a timing when the amount of deformation increases above the threshold (i.e., becomes greater than the threshold) and a timing when the amount of deformation decreases below the threshold (i.e., becomes less than the threshold). Then, a sound and a vibration will be output from the right controller4at a timing when a push-in operation or a pull operation by the user is detected and at a timing between the detection of a push-in operation or a pull operation and the ring-shaped extension apparatus5returning to the normal state.

The ring-shaped extension apparatus5causes the right controller4to output a sound and a vibration in response to the operation count reaching a predetermined round number (e.g., an integral multiple of 100). Moreover, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5causes the right controller4to output a sound and a vibration in response to the operation count reaching an upper limit number (e.g., 500) that is set in the control section213of the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. Note that the manner in which a sound and a vibration are output (e.g., the frequency, the volume/intensity, the length, the number of repetitions, etc.) may be varied between those that are output in response to each operation, those that are output in response to the operation count reaching a round number, and those that are output in response to the operation count reaching the upper limit number.

When a sound and a vibration are output from the right controller4, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5generates an output command representing an instruction to output a sound and a vibration, and transmits the output command to the right controller4. In the present embodiment, the right controller4outputs both of a sound and a vibration from the vibrator117. The ring-shaped extension apparatus5generates an output command that includes data specifying a waveform of a sound and a vibration to be input to the vibrator117. Note that data specifying a waveform may be data representing a waveform itself, data representing information that specifies a waveform (e.g., information of the frequency and the amplitude), or data representing information that specifies one of waveform patterns to be input to the vibrator117(e.g., the number assigned to the waveform pattern).

The ring-shaped extension apparatus5changes, in response to a user operation, the setting regarding the output of a sound and a vibration from the right controller4in the independent operation mode. Specifically, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5turns ON/OFF the sound output in response to a sound switching operation by the user, and turns ON/OFF the vibration output in response to a vibration switching operation by the user. In the present embodiment, these operations are performed using the right controller4. Specifically, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5turns ON/OFF the sound output in response to the operation of pressing the A button53of the right controller4, and turns ON/OFF the vibration output in response to the operation of pressing the B button54of the right controller4.

When the setting for the output of a sound and a vibration through the operation described above is switched, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5generates the output command in accordance with the setting after being switched. For example, where the sound output is set to OFF and the vibration output is set to ON, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5generates an output command so as to include data specifying a waveform that is output only as a vibration (e.g., a waveform that only includes a frequency outside the human audible range and does not include a frequency within the human audible range). For example, when the sound output is set to ON and the vibration output is set to OFF, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5generates an output command so as to include data specifying a waveform that is output only as a sound (e.g., a waveform that only includes a frequency within the human audible range and does not include a frequency outside the human audible range). For example, when the sound output and the vibration output are both set to OFF, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5generates an output command so as to include data specifying a waveform whose output is 0. Note that in this case, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5may generate no output command.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the process of generating an output command based on the setting that is changed in accordance with the controller data indicating that a sound switching operation or a vibration switching operation has been performed is a specific example of the process of generating a command based on the controller data from the right controller4. Herein, in other embodiments, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5may execute another process as the process of generating a command based on the controller data from the right controller4. For example, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5may generate the output command so as to output a sound and/or a vibration in accordance with a sound switching operation or a vibration switching operation performed using the right controller4.

In the independent operation mode, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5lights the indicator LEDs67of the right controller4. In the present embodiment, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5lights the indicator LEDs67in a manner (e.g., the four indicator LEDs67are all lit) that can be distinguished from a mode other than the independent operation mode. Thus, it is possible to notify the user that the right controller4is operating in the independent operation mode. Specifically, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5generates a lighting command representing an instruction to light the indicator LEDs67and transmits the lighting command to the right controller4. The lighting command includes data representing the manner in which four indicator LEDs67are lit. Note that in the present embodiment, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5lights the indicator LEDs67of the right controller4in the manner described above during the period of the independent operation mode. Therefore, when the independent operation mode is started, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5generates a lighting command representing an instruction to light the four indicator LEDs67in the manner described above and transmits the lighting command to the right controller4. Then, when the independent operation mode is ended, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5generates a lighting command representing an instruction to turn off the four indicator LEDs67and transmits the lighting command to the right controller4.

In the independent operation mode, when the end condition to be described below is satisfied, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5executes the process of ending the independent operation mode (hereinafter referred to as the “ending process”). Specifically, when ending the independent operation mode, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5first causes the right controller4to output a notification sound that notifies of the end of the independent operation mode. That is, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5generates an output command representing an instruction to output the notification sound and transmits the output command to the right controller4. Next, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5transmits an end signal representing the end of the independent operation mode to the right controller4after the ring-shaped extension apparatus5is ready to end the independent operation mode (e.g., after completing the process of rewriting data to the memory, etc.). As is the transmission request signal, the end signal may be in a command format or may be of any content that can be distinguished from other signals. The right controller4outputs the notification sound in response to receiving the output command from the ring-shaped extension apparatus5, and ends the independent operation mode in response to receiving the end signal. On the other hand, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5having transmitted the end signal ends the independent operation mode. When the independent operation mode is ended, the right controller4enters the sleep mode. Therefore, in response to the ending of the independent operation mode, the power supply from the right controller4to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5is stopped.

In the present embodiment, the end condition includes three conditions as follows.

(Condition A) A predetermined end operation has been performed.

(Condition B) An input on the home button58of the right controller4has been detected.

(Condition C) No operation on the ring-shaped extension apparatus5has continuously been detected for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 1 min).

When any of Condition A to Condition C is satisfied, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5executes the ending process.

Regarding Condition A, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5executes the ending process in response to a predetermined end operation. In the present embodiment, the end operation is an operation of pressing down the analog stick52, as is the start operation described above. Note however that in other embodiments, the end operation may be any operation. Note that when the end operation is detected, the right controller4does not end the independent operation mode at this point, but transmits controller data indicating that the end operation has been performed in response to the transmission request signal from the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. Then, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5having received the controller data indicating that the end operation has been performed executes the process of ending the independent operation mode, thereby transmitting the end signal from the ring-shaped extension apparatus5to the right controller4. The right controller4ends the independent operation mode in response to receiving this end signal.

Regarding Condition B, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5executes the ending process in response to an input on the home button58of the right controller4. Herein, when an input on the home button58is detected while not in the independent operation mode, the right controller4transmits, to the main body apparatus2, the resume signal for causing the main body apparatus2to resume from the sleep mode, as described above, and then executes the communication process. In contrast, when an input on the home button58is detected in the independent operation mode, the right controller4transmits controller data indicating that an input on the home button58has been performed in response to the transmission request signal from the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. Then, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5, having received controller data indicating that an input on the home button58has been performed, executes the ending process. In the ending process, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5transmits, to the right controller4, a resume instruction command that instructs to transmit a resume signal, together with the end signal, to the main body apparatus2. The right controller4, having received the resume instruction command, ends the independent operation mode in accordance with the end signal, and then transmits the resume signal to the main body apparatus2. Then, also when an input on the wake button is performed in the independent operation mode, the right controller4can perform a similar operation to that when an input on the wake button is performed while not in the independent operation mode.

Note that in other embodiments, the right controller4may end the independent operation mode after transmitting the resume signal to the main body apparatus2. Then, there will be moments where the right controller4and the main body apparatus2wirelessly communicate with each other while in the independent operation mode. Note that at the point when the right controller4transmits the resume signal to the main body apparatus2, the process in the independent operation mode is already completed on the ring-shaped extension apparatus5, and it can be said that the operation in the independent operation mode is substantially ended. Therefore, it is believed that there will be no problems even if the main body apparatus2and the right controller4communicate with each other in the independent operation mode.

As described above, in the present embodiment, when a peripheral apparatus (herein, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5) receives controller data that is transmitted in response to an input on a wake button (e.g., the home button58) having been performed in the independent operation mode, the peripheral apparatus generates a command instructing to transmit, to the main body apparatus2, a signal configured to cause the main body apparatus2to resume from the sleep mode and transmits the command to the right controller4. In response to receiving the command from the peripheral apparatus, the right controller4transmits, to the main body apparatus2, a signal configured to cause the main body apparatus2to resume from the sleep mode. According to the description above, the right controller4does not perform special processes that are different from normal processes in the independent operation mode (i.e., the processes performed by the right controller4in accordance with commands from the peripheral apparatus), but can operate in substantially the same manner while in the independent operation mode and while not in the independent operation mode. According to the description above, since the right controller4does not need to execute special processes in the independent operation mode, it is possible to simplify the process of the right controller4in the independent operation mode.

Regarding Condition C, when no operation on the ring-shaped extension apparatus5has continuously been detected for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 1 min), the ring-shaped extension apparatus5executes the ending process. Herein, the phrase “no operation on the ring-shaped extension apparatus5has continuously been detected for a predetermined amount of time” means that the state where the amount of deformation of the ring-shaped extension apparatus5is nearly 0 (this does not strictly need to be 0) continues for a predetermined amount of time. In such a case, it can be assumed that the user has no intention of performing a fitness exercise operation using the ring-shaped extension apparatus5, and therefore the ring-shaped extension apparatus5ends the independent operation mode.

As described above, in the present embodiment, when a peripheral apparatus (herein, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5) receives controller data that is transmitted in response to a predetermined input using the right controller4(the end operation or an input on the home button58) having been performed in the independent operation mode, the peripheral apparatus transmits, to the right controller4, an end signal representing the end of the independent operation mode.

If the right controller4were to transmit the end signal to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5, it might be possible that the right controller4transmits the end signal while some process is being executed on the peripheral apparatus. Then, since the right controller4stops the power supply to the peripheral apparatus after ending the independent operation mode, it may be possible that the power supply from the right controller4is stopped while some process is being executed on the peripheral apparatus. In such a case, the process on the peripheral apparatus may not end normally, thereby causing a problem in the process in the independent operation mode. For example, if the power supply from the right controller4is stopped while a process of writing on a memory of the peripheral apparatus is being executed, the data stored in the memory may be deleted.

In contrast, in the present embodiment, since the ring-shaped extension apparatus5transmits the end signal to the right controller4, the peripheral apparatus can transmit the end signal at an appropriate timing after the completion of the process on the peripheral apparatus, and end the independent operation mode. Then, the power supply from the right controller4is stopped after the completion of the process. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to reduce the possibility of discontinuing an unfinished process on the peripheral apparatus when ending the independent operation mode, and it is therefore possible to safely end the independent operation mode.

3. Specific Example of Information Processes on Game System

Next, a specific example of processes executed on the right controller4and the ring-shaped extension apparatus5will be described.FIG. 14is a flow chart showing an example of a controller process executed by the right controller4. The series of controller processes shown inFIG. 14is for determining the mode of operation, and is started in response to the resumption of the right controller4from the sleep mode.

Note that in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the processor of the communication control section111of the right controller4executes a firmware program stored in the memory112to execute the processes of the steps shown inFIG. 14. Note however that in other embodiments, some of the processes of the steps may be executed by another processor (e.g., a dedicated circuit, etc.) different from the processor of the communication control section111. The processes of the steps shown inFIG. 14are merely illustrative, and the order of steps to be performed may be switched around or other processes may be executed in addition to (or instead of) the processes of the steps, as long as similar results are obtained.

The communication control section111executes the processes of the steps shown inFIG. 14by using the memory112. That is, the communication control section111stores information (in other words, data) obtained in each process step in the memory112and reads out the information from the memory112to use the information in a subsequent process step.

When the controller process is started, in step S30, the processor first determines whether or not the right controller4is attached to another apparatus (a peripheral apparatus or the main body apparatus2). When the determination result from step S30is affirmative, the process of step S31is executed. On the other hand, when the determination result from step S30is negative, the process of step S38to be described below is executed.

Note that in other embodiments, the determination process of step S30may be performed in the checking process described above. That is, when no checking electronic component is detected as a result of executing the checking process, the processor may determine that the right controller4is not attached to another apparatus. Note that in this variation, the checking process of step S32to be described below may be omitted.

In step S31, the processor determines whether or not it has newly been detected that the right controller4is connected to another apparatus. That is, in step S31, the determination result is negative if the right controller4is already attached to another apparatus. When the determination result from step S31is affirmative, the process of step S32is executed. On the other hand, when the determination result from step S31is negative, the process of step S35to be described below is executed.

In step S32, the processor executes the checking process described above (step S21shown inFIG. 13). Through the checking process, the processor can determine the type of the apparatus to which the right controller4is attached (specifically, whether it is a peripheral apparatus that is compatible with the independent operation mode or the main body apparatus2). The process of step S33is executed following step S32. Note that in other embodiments, as the type of the apparatus to which the right controller4is attached, the processor may determine that the apparatus is a peripheral apparatus that is not compatible with the independent operation mode or a peripheral apparatus that is compatible with another mode.

In step S33, the processor determines whether or not the right controller4is attached to the main body apparatus2based on the result of the checking process. When the determination result from step S33is affirmative, the process of step S34is executed. On the other hand, when the determination result from step S33is negative (that is, when the right controller4is attached to the peripheral apparatus), the process of step S35to be described below is executed.

In step S34, the processor starts operating in the main body-attached mode. While in the main body-attached mode, the processor executes processes in accordance with various signals (specifically, the transmission request signal and the end signal, etc.) or commands received from the main body apparatus2via the terminal64. When the operation in the main body-attached mode is completed, the processor ends the controller process shown inFIG. 14and puts the right controller4to the sleep mode. For example, when the main body apparatus2enters the sleep mode in response to an instruction from the user, the main body apparatus2transmits the end signal to the right controller4, as in the main body operation mode. When the end signal is received, the processor ends the operation in the main body-attached mode, and the right controller4enters the sleep mode.

On the other hand, in step S35, the processor determines whether or not the start operation has been performed. That is, the processor determines whether or not the operation of pressing down the analog stick52has been detected. Note that in the process of step S35, which is executed as a result of the determination result from step S30becoming affirmative immediately after the right controller4resumes from the sleep mode, the processor determines whether or not the right controller4has resumed from the sleep mode in response to the detection of the operation of pressing down the analog stick52. When the determination result from step S35is affirmative, the process of step S36is executed. On the other hand, when the determination result from step S35is negative, the process of step S38to be described below is executed.

In step S36, the processor determines whether or not the peripheral apparatus to which the right controller4is attached is capable of operating in the independent operation mode. That is, the processor determines whether or not the peripheral apparatus to which the right controller4is attached is a peripheral apparatus that is compatible with the independent operation mode based on the result of the checking process. Then, when it is a peripheral apparatus that is compatible with the independent operation mode, the power supply to the peripheral apparatus is started (step S22shown inFIG. 13), and mode information representing the independent operation mode is transmitted to the peripheral apparatus (step S24shown inFIG. 13). Moreover, when there is a response to the mode information from the peripheral apparatus, the processor determines that the peripheral apparatus to which the right controller4is attached is capable of operating in the independent operation mode. On the other hand, when the peripheral apparatus to which the right controller4is attached is not compatible with the independent operation mode, or when there is no response from the peripheral apparatus, the processor determines that the peripheral apparatus to which the right controller4is attached is not capable of operating in the independent operation mode. When the determination result from step S36is affirmative, the process of step S37is executed. On the other hand, when the determination result from step S36is negative, the process of step S38to be described below is executed.

In step S37, the processor starts operating in the independent operation mode. While in the independent operation mode, the processor executes processes in accordance with various signals or commands received from a peripheral apparatus (herein, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5) via the terminal64(seeFIG. 12). When the operation in the independent operation mode is completed, the processor ends the controller process shown inFIG. 14, entering the sleep mode. Note that when the independent operation mode is ended, the end signal is transmitted from the ring-shaped extension apparatus5to the right controller as described above. When the end signal is received, the processor ends the operation in the independent operation mode, and the right controller4enters the sleep mode.

On the other hand, in step S38, the processor determines whether or not to start the wireless connection with the main body apparatus2. That is, the processor determines whether or not an input on an operation section of the right controller4(e.g., the buttons113and the analog stick52) has been detected. Note that in the present embodiment, the right controller4resumes from the sleep mode in response to an input on an operation section. Therefore, when the process of step S38is executed as a result of the determination result from step S30becoming negative immediately after the right controller4resumes from the sleep mode, the processor determines that the input has been detected. When the determination result from step S38is affirmative, the process of step S39is executed. On the other hand, when the determination result from step S38is negative, the process of step S30is executed again.

In step S39, the processor executes the communication process for establishing the wireless connection between the right controller4and the main body apparatus2. The process of step S40is executed following step S39.

In step S40, the processor determines whether or not the wireless connection between the right controller4and the main body apparatus2has been established. When the determination result from step S40is affirmative, the process of step S41is executed. On the other hand, when the determination result from step S40is negative, the process of step S30is executed again. Note that in this case, the processes of steps S30, S35, S38to S40are repeatedly executed while the right controller4is not attached to another apparatus, and in response to the establishment of the wireless connection between the right controller4and the main body apparatus2, the determination result from step S40becomes affirmative and the process of step S41is executed.

In step S41, the processor starts operating in the main body operation mode. While in the main body operation mode, the processor executes the process shown inFIG. 11to generate various signals and/or commands, and transmits the signals and/or commands to the peripheral apparatus via the terminal64or wirelessly transmits the controller data and the ring operation data to the main body apparatus2. Note that although not shown in the figures, when the right controller4is attached to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5during the process of step S41(i.e., when the right controller4operating in the main body operation mode is attached to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5), the series of processes of steps S21, S22and S24is executed during the process of step S41. When the operation in the main body operation mode is completed, the processor ends the controller process shown inFIG. 14, entering the sleep mode. For example, when the main body apparatus2enters the sleep mode in response to an instruction from the user, the main body apparatus2transmits, to the right controller4, the end signal configured to cause the right controller4to end the operation in the main body operation mode. When the end signal is received, the processor ends the operation in the main body operation mode, and the right controller4enters the sleep mode.

Note that when no operation is performed using the right controller4for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 1 min) while the controller process shown inFIG. 14is being executed, the right controller4may end the controller process and enter the sleep mode.

FIG. 15andFIG. 16are flow charts showing an example of peripheral apparatus processes executed by the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. The series of peripheral apparatus processes shown inFIG. 15andFIG. 16is started in response to the start-up of the ring-shaped extension apparatus5following the start of the power supply from the right controller4, for example.

Note that in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the processes of the steps shown inFIG. 15andFIG. 16are executed by the processor of the control section213of the ring-shaped extension apparatus5executing a program stored in the memory of the control section213. Note however that in other embodiments, some of the processes of the steps may be executed by another processor (e.g., a dedicated circuit, etc.) different from the processor of the control section213. The processes of the steps shown inFIG. 15andFIG. 16are merely illustrative, and the order of steps to be performed may be switched around or other processes may be executed in addition to (or instead of) the processes of the steps, as long as similar results are obtained.

The control section213executes the processes of the steps shown inFIG. 15andFIG. 16using the memory. That is, the control section213stores information (in other words, data) obtained in each process step in the memory and reads out the information from the memory to user the information in a subsequent process step.

When the peripheral apparatus process is started, in step S51, the processor first enters the stand-by state as described above. Then, in response to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5receiving the mode information from the right controller4, the process of step S52is executed.

In step S52, the processor determines whether or not to operate in the independent operation mode. That is, the processor determines whether or not the mode information received from the right controller4represents the independent operation mode. When the determination result from step S52is affirmative, the process of step S53is executed. On the other hand, when the determination result from step S52is negative, the process of step S54to be described below is executed.

In step S53, the processor executes an independent operation mode process, which is a process to be performed while in the independent operation mode. The independent operation mode process will be described below (seeFIG. 16). After the end of the independent operation mode process, the processor ends the peripheral apparatus process. Then, the power supply from the right controller4to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5is stopped.

On the other hand, in step S54, the processor starts operating in the main body operation mode. That is, the processor executes a process in accordance with a signal or a command received from the right controller4via the terminal214(seeFIG. 11). After the end of the main body operation mode process, the processor ends the peripheral apparatus process. Then, the power supply from the right controller4to the ring-shaped extension apparatus5is stopped.

FIG. 16is a sub-flow chart showing an example of a detailed flow of the independent operation mode process of step S53shown inFIG. 15. In the independent operation mode process, in step S61, the processor first obtains the strain value detected by the strain detector211. The process of step S62is executed following step S61.

In step S62, the processor determines whether or not to end the independent operation mode. That is, the processor determines whether or not any of the end conditions described in “[2-4. Specific example of processes in independent operation mode]” above has been satisfied. Specifically, when controller data indicating that the end operation has been performed is received in step S68to be described below, it is determined in subsequent step S62that Condition A has been satisfied. When controller data indicating that an input on the home button58has been performed is received in step S68to be described below, it is determined in subsequent step S62that Condition B has been satisfied. When the strain values obtained in step S61, which is repeatedly executed, indicate that no operation on the ring-shaped extension apparatus5has continuously been detected for a predetermined amount of time, it is determined in subsequent step S62that Condition C has been satisfied. When the determination result from step S62is affirmative, the process of step S63is executed. On the other hand, when the determination result from step S62is negative, the process of step S64to be described below is executed.

In step S63, the processor executes the ending process described above. Then, the processor ends the independent operation mode process.

On the other hand, in step S64, the processor determines whether or not a push-in operation or a pull operation on the ring-shaped extension apparatus5has been detected. Note that the detection of a push-in operation or a pull operation is performed in accordance with the method described in “[2-4. Specific example of processes in independent operation mode]” above based on the strain value obtained in step S61. When the determination result from step S64is affirmative, the process of step S65is executed. On the other hand, when the determination result from step S64is negative, the process of step S67to be described below is executed, skipping the processes of steps S65and S66.

In step S65, the processor keeps the count of operations that have been performed on the ring-shaped extension apparatus5. Specifically, the processor updates the value stored in the memory as the operation count by incrementing the value. The process of step S66is executed following step S65.

In step S66, the processor generates a waveform of a sound and a vibration. That is, the processor generates data specifying a waveform of a sound and a vibration to be input to the vibrator117of the right controller4. Note that when the setting has been switched so as to turn OFF the sound output or the setting has been switched so as to turn OFF the vibration output, as described above, the processor does not generate a waveform of a sound and/or a vibration in accordance with the setting. The process of step S67is executed following step S66.

In step S67, the processor transmits a signal and a command to the right controller4. Specifically, the processor generates the end signal, the output command, the lighting command and the resume instruction command, as necessary, as well as the transmission request signal described above. Then, the processor transmits the generated signal and the generated command to the right controller4via the terminal214. The process of step S68is executed following step S67.

In step S68, the processor receives controller data from the right controller4. When the transmission request signal is transmitted to the right controller4through the process of step S67, the controller data is transmitted from the right controller4in response to receiving the transmission request signal, and the processor receives the controller data via the terminal214. The process of step S69is executed following step S68.

In step S69, the processor executes a process based on the controller data received in step S68. Specifically, as described in “[2-4. Specific example of processes in independent operation mode]” above, when controller data indicating that a sound switching operation or a vibration switching operation has been performed is received, the sound and vibration setting is changed. Note that information representing the setting is stored in the memory of the control section213. The process of step S61is executed again following step S69. Thereafter, the process loop of steps S61, S62, S64to S69is repeatedly executed until it is determined in step S62to end the independent operation mode.

Note that in the present embodiment, the processor repeatedly executes the process loop at the rate of once per a predetermined amount of time. That is, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5periodically transmits the transmission request signal to the right controller4at this rate. Note that in other embodiments, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5does not need to periodically transmit the transmission request signal. For example, when there is no need to transmit the transmission request signal in the process loop, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5may skip the process of step S67. For example, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5may periodically transmit a command to the right controller4, and transmit a command that instructs to perform no operation to the right controller4when there is nothing to instruct to the right controller4.

4. Functions/Effects and Variations of Present Embodiment

In the embodiment described above, a peripheral apparatus (e.g., the ring-shaped extension apparatus5) is capable of communicating with a game controller (e.g., the right controller4) with which it is possible to control a game apparatus (e.g., the main body apparatus2). A peripheral apparatus includes a sensor (e.g., the strain detector211) detecting a user input, a processing section (e.g., the control section213executing the process of generating commands), and a transmitter (e.g., the control section213transmitting commands or terminal214). The peripheral apparatus, while the communication connection with the game controller is established, is capable of operating in one of a plurality of modes, including a first mode (e.g., the independent operation mode) and a second mode (e.g., the main body operation mode). In the first mode, the processing section generates a command (e.g., the output command) instructing the game controller to execute a predetermined operation based on peripheral apparatus data (e.g., data representing the strain value) in accordance with a user input detected by the sensor, and the transmitter transmits the command to the game controller. In the second mode, the transmitter transmits the peripheral apparatus data to the game controller.

With such a configuration, in the first mode, the game controller can operate in accordance with the command from the peripheral apparatus. Therefore, the process of the game controller in the first mode can be a general-purpose process so that the game controller is easily compatible with different types of peripheral apparatuses. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the game controller is easily compatible with a wider variety of peripheral apparatuses. Moreover, it is possible to simplify the process of the game controller in the first mode, and it is therefore possible to reduce the amount of programs and data to be stored in the right controller4for executing the process.

In the embodiment described above, the game controller can control the game apparatus and can communicate with the peripheral apparatus. The game controller includes operation sections (e.g., the buttons113and the analog stick52) and a transmitter (e.g., the communication control section). The game controller, while the communication connection with the peripheral apparatus is established, is capable of operating in one of a plurality of modes including the first mode and the second mode. In the first mode, the transmitter transmits, to the peripheral apparatus, controller data in accordance with a user input to an operation section. In the second mode, the transmitter transmits, to the game apparatus, controller data in accordance with a user input to an operation section.

With such a configuration, in the first mode, the game controller transmits controller data to the peripheral apparatus. Then, since a process based on a user input to the game controller can be executed on the peripheral apparatus side, and for this process, the game controller only needs to transmit controller data, and the process of the game controller in the first mode can be a general-purpose process. It is also possible to simplify the process of the game controller in the first mode.

(Variation Regarding Connection Between Game Controller and Peripheral Apparatus)

In the embodiment described above, by attaching the game controller (e.g., the right controller4) and the peripheral apparatus (e.g., the ring-shaped extension apparatus5) to each other, they are electrically connected to each other, thereby enabling communication therebetween. In other embodiments, the game controller and the peripheral apparatus may not be capable of being attached to each other. For example, in other embodiments, the game controller and the peripheral apparatus may be electrically connected to each other via a cable, thereby enabling communication therebetween. In other embodiments, the game controller and the peripheral apparatus may communicate with each other in wireless communication. Note that a state where the communication connection between the game controller and the peripheral apparatus is established refers to a state where they are electrically connected to each other in the case of wired communication, and refers to a state where a wireless connection is established therebetween in the case of wireless communication.

(Variation Regarding Configuration of Peripheral Apparatus)

In the embodiment described above, the ring-shaped extension apparatus5, which is an example of the peripheral apparatus, includes a sensor (e.g., the strain detector211) that outputs data in accordance with a user input. Herein, in other embodiments, the peripheral apparatus may be any apparatus that is capable of communicating with the game controller, and does not need to include the sensor. For example, the peripheral apparatus may be an apparatus that does not include the sensor but includes operation buttons and/or analog stick. For example, the peripheral apparatus may be an apparatus that does not include operation sections but includes the processing section and the storage medium for executing the process in the independent operation mode.

Note that in the main body operation mode, the peripheral apparatus may transmit peripheral apparatus data obtained or generated by the peripheral apparatus to a game controller in response to a request from the game controller. The peripheral apparatus data may be data obtained by the peripheral apparatus such as the ring operation data of the embodiment described above (e.g., data obtained from the sensor or the operation sections of the peripheral apparatus), or may be data generated by the peripheral apparatus (e.g., data generated by the process executed on the peripheral apparatus).

Note that while the right controller4is attached to the peripheral apparatus in the embodiment described above, the left controller3can also operate in similar modes to those of the right controller4(i.e., the main body operation mode, the independent operation mode and the main body-attached mode). In other embodiments, the peripheral apparatus may be an apparatus to which the left controller3is attached.

The embodiment described above is applicable to a peripheral apparatus capable of communicating with a game controller, for example, with the aim of minimizing the need to make changes to the game controller so that the game controller is compatible with the peripheral apparatus.

While certain example systems, methods, devices and apparatuses have been described herein, it is to be understood that the appended claims are not to be limited to the systems, methods, devices and apparatuses disclosed, but on the contrary, are intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.