Storage medium storing load detecting program and load detecting apparatus

A load detecting apparatus includes a load controller, and judges a motion of a player on the basis of detected load values. Judgment timing for a motion of putting the feet on and down from the controller is decided on the basis of an elapsed time from an instruction of a motion. In a case that a step-up-and-down exercise is performed, a judgment timing of a motion for bringing about a state both of the feet are put down on a ground at a fourth step is decided on the basis of a judgment timing of a motion of putting a third step down.

CROSS REFERENCE OF RELATED APPLICATION

The disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2007-261798 is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to a storage medium storing a load detecting program and a load detecting apparatus. More specifically, the present invention relates to a storage medium storing a load detecting program and a load detecting apparatus which perform processing by detecting load values imposed on a support plate on which a foot of a player is put.

2. Description of the Related Art

Conventionally, a load detecting apparatus equipped with a sensor for detecting a load of a subject is known in a field of medical equipment for purpose of exercises such as rehabilitation.

For example, in a Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 62-34016 [G01G 19/00, A61B 5/10, A61H 1/00, G01G 23/37]), a variable load display apparatus provided with two load sensors is disclosed. In this apparatus, right and left feet are put on the respective load sensors one by one. From the display of load values detected by the two load sensors, a balance between the right and left feet is measured.

Furthermore, in a Patent Document 2 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 7-275307 [A61H 1/02, A61B 5/11, A63B 23/04]), a center of gravity shift training apparatus with three load detecting means is disclosed. In this apparatus, both feet are put on a detection plate provided with the three load detecting means. By an arithmetic operation of signals detected from the three load detecting means, a position of the center of gravity is calculated and displayed, and whereby, training for shifting the center of gravity is performed.

However, in the above-described Patent Documents 1 and 2, although changes of the load in a state that the foot of the subject is put on the detection plate provided with the load detecting means (the balance between right and left and shift of the center of gravity) can be measured, there is a problem in that it is difficult to accurately determine a motion of putting the foot on and down from the detection plate like a step-up-and-down exercise. For example, consider now that a subject, putting one foot on the detection plate, is made to make a motion of putting the foot down from the detection plate to the ground according to an instruction of the screen. At this time, the change of the load put on the plate at a time when the subject puts the foot off from the detection plate is measured, the load value becomes approximately 0. However, at this step, since the subject merely puts the foot off from the detection plate, and has not finished the motion of putting the foot on the ground, if the motion is determined here, a time lag occurs between the timing when the motion is actually performed and the timing when the determination of the motion is performed in the apparatus. Thus, this makes it impossible to accurately determine the motion of the subject, and this gives the subject a strong uncomfortable feeling and an unnatural impression. Since the above-described Patent Documents 1 and 2 only disclose the measurement of the changes of the load with both of the feet are put on the plate, it is impossible to detect timing when the foot is put on the ground, so that such problems cannot be solved.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Therefore, it is a primary object of the present invention to provide a novel storage medium storing a load detecting program and a load detecting apparatus.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a storage medium storing a load detecting program and a load detecting apparatus capable of accurately determining timing of a motion such as putting a foot on and down from the stepping board by a player.

The present invention employs following features in order to solve the above-described problems. It should be noted that reference numerals inside the parentheses and the supplements show one example of a corresponding relationship with the embodiments described later for easy understanding of the present invention, and do not limit the present invention.

A first invention is a storage medium storing a load detecting program to be executed by a computer of a load detecting apparatus having a support board allowing a player to put the feet on. The load detecting program causes the computer to execute a load value detecting step, a motion instructing step, an elapsed time counting step, a judgment timing deciding step, and a first motion determining step. The load value detecting step detects a load value put on the support board. The motion instructing step instructs the player to perform a first motion. The elapsed time counting step counts an elapsed time from when the motion instructing step gives an instruction of the first motion. The judgment timing deciding step decides whether or not a first motion judgment timing has come on the basis of the elapsed time. The first motion determining step determines whether or not the first motion is performed on the basis of the load value detected by the load value detecting step when the judgment timing deciding step decides the judgment timing has come.

In the first invention, the load detecting program is executed in a computer (40,42) of a load detecting apparatus (10,12), and causes the load detecting apparatus to function as an apparatus for determining a motion of a player (user) on the basis of the detected load values, for example. The load detecting apparatus has a support board (36) for allowing the player to put the feet on, and the support board has a load sensor (36b), for example. A load value detecting step (S35, S75, S115, S163) detects a load value put on the support board. A load value depending on the motion by the player with respect to the support board is detected. A motion instructing step (S151) instructs the player to perform a first motion. For example, the instruction of the motion may be performed by displaying panels (400) representing the motion on a screen, and suitable timing may be shown by the timing of the movement or stop of the panels. An elapsed time counting step (S153, S155) counts an elapsed time (T4) from an instruction of the first motion is given. A judgment timing deciding step (S159, S161) decides whether or not the first motion judgment timing has come on the basis of the elapsed time. It is decided whether or not a suitable time for determining the execution of the first motion elapses from the instruction. A first motion determining step (S165) determines whether or not the first motion is performed on the basis of the detected load value when it is decided that the judgment timing has come.

According to the first invention, since the judgment timing is decided by the elapsed time from the start of the instruction of the motion, it is possible to determine the execution of the motion by properly deciding the judgment timing of the motion by the player.

A second invention is a storage medium storing a load detecting program according to the first invention, and the load detecting program causes the computer to further execute a load determining step for determining whether or not the load value detected by the load value detecting step becomes a predetermined state. The motion instructing step instructs the player to perform a second motion, the elapsed time counting step counts an elapsed time from when the instruction of the second motion is given, the judgment timing deciding step decides that the first motion judgment timing has come when the elapsed time from the instruction of the first motion reaches the elapsed time from when the instruction of the second motion is given to when the load determining step determines that the load value becomes the predetermined state.

In the second invention, a motion instructing step (S31, S71, S111) gives an instruction of a second motion, and an elapsed time counting step (S33, S49, S73, S89, S113, S129) counts an elapsed time from when the instruction of the second motion is given. A load determining step (S37, S41, S77, S81, S117, S121) determines whether or not the detected load value becomes a predetermined state. The predetermined state is a state that a condition for determining that the second motion is executed is satisfied, for example. That is, a judgment condition of a ratio of a load value to a body weight value, and a judgment condition in relation to a position of the center of gravity are decided in advance, and judgment of the condition is performed on the basis of the detected load value. The judgment timing deciding step decides that the first motion judgment timing has come when the elapsed time (T4) from the instruction of the first motion reaches the elapsed time (T3) from when the instruction of the second motion is given to when the load determining step determines that the load value becomes the predetermined state. The judgment timing of the first motion can be decided on the basis of the second motion judgment timing, so that it is possible to make a suitable judgment with simple processing.

A third invention is a storage medium storing a load detecting program according to the second invention, and the judgment timing deciding step decides that the first motion judgment timing has come in a case that the load determining step does not determines that the load value becomes the predetermined state from the instruction of the second motion, when the elapsed time from the instruction of the first motion becomes a predetermined time.

In the third invention, in the judgment timing deciding step, in a case that the load determining step does not determine that the load value becomes the predetermined state from the instruction of the second motion, that is, it is not determined that the second motion is performed by the player, when the elapsed time (T4) from the instruction of the first motion becomes a predetermined time (PS), it is decided that the first motion judgment timing has come. For example, the predetermined time is set to a value suitable for performing the first motion. Even if determination of the second motion is not performed, it is possible to decide the first motion judgment timing on the basis of the suitable timing set in advance.

A fourth invention is a storage medium storing a load detecting program according to the second invention, and the first motion is a motion, from a state that one foot of the player is put on the support board and the other foot is put on a ground, of putting the one foot down from the support board, and the second motion is a motion of putting only one foot down from the support board from a state that the player rides on the support board.

In the fourth invention, it is possible to properly decide judgment timing of a motion such as a step-up-and-down exercise.

A fifth invention is a storage medium storing a load detecting program according to the first invention, and the load detecting program causes the computer to further execute a notifying step for notifying the player that the first motion is performed when the first motion determining step determines that the first motion is performed.

In the fifth invention, the notifying step (S171) notifies the player that the first motion is performed by a sound output, an image display, etc. It is possible to easily inform the player whether or not the instructed motion is executed.

A sixth invention is a load detecting apparatus having a support board allowing a player to put the feet on, and comprises a load value detecting means, a motion instructing means, an elapsed time counting step, a judgment timing deciding means, and a first motion determining means. The load value detecting means detects a load value put on the support board. The motion instructing means instructs the player to perform a first motion. The elapsed time counting means counts an elapsed time from when the motion instructing means gives an instruction of the first motion. The judgment timing deciding means decides whether or not the first motion judgment timing has come on the basis of the elapsed time. The first motion determining means determines whether or not the first motion is performed on the basis of the load value detected by the load value detecting means when the judgment timing deciding means decides the judgment timing has come.

The sixth invention is a load detecting apparatus to which the storage medium storing a load detecting program according to the first invention is applied, and has an advantage similar to the first invention.

According to the present invention, since an elapsed time from when an instruction of a motion is performed is counted, and whether the judgment timing of the motion or not is decided on the basis of the elapsed time, it is possible to properly decide the judgment timing as to whether or not the player performs a motion of putting the feet on and down from the plate. Thus, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not the motion is performed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring toFIG. 1, a game system10of one embodiment of the present invention includes a video game apparatus hereinafter, simply referred to as “game apparatus”)12, a controller22and a load controller36. In this embodiment, the game apparatus12and the load controller36function as a load detecting apparatus. Although illustration is omitted, the game apparatus12of this embodiment is designed such that it can be connected to four controllers (22,36) at the maximum. Furthermore, the game apparatus12and the respective controllers (22,36) are connected by radio. The wireless communication is executed according to a Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard, for example, but may be executed by other standards such as infrared rays, a wireless LAN.

The game apparatus12includes a roughly rectangular parallelepiped housing14, and the housing14is furnished with a disk slot16on a front surface. An optical disk18as one example of an information storage medium storing game program, etc. is inserted from the disk slot16to be loaded into a disk drive54(seeFIG. 2) within the housing14. Around the disk slot16, an LED and a light guide plate are arranged so as to be light on or off in accordance with various processing.

Furthermore, on a front surface of the housing14of the game apparatus12, a power button20aand a reset button20bare provided at the upper part thereof, and an eject button20cis provided below them. In addition, a connector cover for external memory card28is provided between the reset button20band the eject button20c, and in the vicinity of the disk slot16. Inside the connector cover for external memory card28, an connector for external memory card62(seeFIG. 2) is provided, through which an external memory card (hereinafter simply referred to as a “memory card”) not shown is inserted. The memory card is employed for loading the game program, etc. read from the optical disk18to temporarily store it, storing (saving) game data (result data or proceeding data of the game) of the game played by means of the game system10, and so forth. It should be noted that storing the game data described above may be performed on an internal memory, such as a flash memory44(seeFIG. 2) inside the game apparatus12in place of the memory card. Also, the memory card may be utilized as a backup memory of the internal memory.

It should be noted that a general-purpose SD card can be employed as a memory card, but other general-purpose memory cards, such as MemoryStick, Multimedia Card (registered trademark) can be employed.

The game apparatus12has an AV cable connector58(seeFIG. 2) on the rear surface of the housing14, and by utilizing the AV cable connector58, a monitor34and a speaker34aare connected to the game apparatus12through an AV cable32a. The monitor34and the speaker34aare typically a color television receiver, and through the AV cable32a, a video signal from the game apparatus12is input to a video input terminal of the color television, and a sound signal from the game apparatus12is input to a sound input terminal. Accordingly, a game image of a three-dimensional (3D) video game, for example, is displayed on the screen of the color television (monitor)34, and stereo game sound, such as a game music, a sound effect, etc. is output from right and left speakers34a. Around the monitor34(on the top side of the monitor34, in this embodiment), a marker unit34bincluding two infrared ray LEDs (markers)340mand340nis provided. The marker unit34bis connected to the game apparatus12through a power source cable32b. Accordingly, the marker unit34bis supplied with power from the game apparatus12. Thus, the markers340mand340nemit lights in front of the monitor34.

Furthermore, the power of the game apparatus12is applied by means of a general AC adapter (not illustrated). The AC adapter is inserted into a standard wall socket for home use, and the game apparatus12transforms the house current (commercial power supply) to a low DC voltage signal suitable for driving. In another embodiment, a battery may be utilized as a power supply.

In the game system10, a user or a player turns the power of the game apparatus12on for playing the game (or applications other than the game). Then, the user selects an appropriate optical disk18storing a program of a video game (or other applications the player wants to play), and loads the optical disk18into the disk drive54of the game apparatus12. In response thereto, the game apparatus12starts to execute a video game or other applications on the basis of the program recorded in the optical disk18. The user operates the controller22in order to apply an input to the game apparatus12. For example, by operating any one of the operating buttons of the input means26, a game or other application is started. Besides the operation on the input means26, by moving the controller22itself, it is possible to move a moving image object (player object) in different directions or change the perspective of the user (camera position) in a 3-dimensional game world.

FIG. 2is a block diagram showing an electric configuration of the video game system10shown inFIG. 1embodiment. Although illustration is omitted, respective components within the housing14are mounted on a printed board. As shown inFIG. 2, the game apparatus12has a CPU40. The CPU40functions as a game processor. The CPU40is connected with a system LSI42. The system LSI42is connected with an external main memory46, a ROM/RTC48, a disk drive54, and an AV IC56.

The external main memory46is utilized as a work area and a buffer area of the CPU40by storing programs like a game program, etc. and various data. The ROM/RTC48, which is a so-called boot ROM, is incorporated with a program for activating the game apparatus12, and is provided with a time circuit for counting a time. The disk drive54reads program data, texture data, etc. from the optical disk18, and writes them in an internal main memory42edescribed later or the external main memory46under the control of the CPU40.

The system LSI42is provided with an input-output processor42a, a GPU (Graphics Processor Unit)42b, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor)42c, a VRAM42dand an internal main memory42e, and these are connected with one another by internal buses although illustration is omitted.

The input-output processor (I/O processor)42aexecutes transmitting and receiving data and executes downloading of the data. Reception and transmission and download of the data are explained in detail later.

The GPU42bis made up of a part of a drawing means, and receives a graphics command (construction command) from the CPU40to generate game image data according to the command. Additionally, the CPU40applies an image generating program required for generating game image data to the GPU42bin addition to the graphics command.

Although illustration is omitted, the GPU42bis connected with the VRAM42das described above. The GPU42baccesses the VRAM42dto acquire data (image data: data such as polygon data, texture data, etc.) required to execute the construction instruction. Additionally, the CPU40writes image data required for drawing to the VRAM42dvia the GPU42b. The GPU42baccesses the VRAM42dto create game image data for drawing.

In this embodiment, a case that the GPU42bgenerates game image data is explained, but in a case of executing an arbitrary application except for the game application, the GPU42bgenerates image data as to the arbitrary application.

Furthermore, the DSP42cfunctions as an audio processor, and generates audio data corresponding to a sound, a voice, music, or the like to be output from the speaker34aby means of the sound data and the sound wave (tone) data stored in the internal main memory42eand the external main memory46.

The game image data and audio data generated as described above are read by the AV IC56, and output to the monitor34and the speaker34avia the AV connector58. Accordingly, a game screen is displayed on the monitor34, and a sound (music) necessary for the game is output from the speaker34a.

Furthermore, the input-output processor42ais connected with a flash memory44, a wireless communication module50and a wireless controller module52, and is also connected with an expansion connector60and a connector for external memory card62. The wireless communication module50is connected with an antenna50a, and the wireless controller module52is connected with an antenna52a.

The input-output processor42acan communicate with other game apparatuses and various servers to be connected to a network via a wireless communication module50. It should be noted that it is possible to directly communicate with another game apparatus without going through the network. The input-output processor42aperiodically accesses the flash memory44to detect the presence or absence of data (referred to as data to be transmitted) being required to be transmitted to a network, and transmits it to the network via the wireless communication module50and the antenna50ain a case that data to be transmitted is present. Furthermore, the input-output processor42areceives data (referred to as received data) transmitted from another game apparatuses via the network, the antenna50aand the wireless communication module50, and stores the received data in the flash memory44. If the received data does not satisfy a predetermined condition, the reception data is abandoned as it is. In addition, the input-output processor42acan receive data (download data) downloaded from the download server via the network, the antenna50aand the wireless communication module50, and store the download data in the flash memory44.

Furthermore, the input-output processor42areceives input data transmitted from the controller22and the load controller36via the antenna52aand the wireless controller module52, and (temporarily) stores it in the buffer area of the internal main memory42eor the external main memory46. The input data is erased from the buffer area after being utilized in game processing by the CPU40.

In this embodiment, as described above, the wireless controller module52makes communications with the controller22and the load controller36in accordance with Bluetooth standards.

Furthermore, for the sake of the drawings,FIG. 2collectively shows the controller22and the load controller36.

In addition, the input-output processor42ais connected with the expansion connector60and the connector for external memory card62. The expansion connector60is a connector for interfaces, such as USB, SCSI, etc., and can be connected with medium such as an external storage, and peripheral devices such as another controller. Furthermore, the expansion connector60is connected with a cable LAN adaptor, and can utilize the cable LAN in place of the wireless communication module50. The connector for external memory card62can be connected with an external storage like a memory card. Thus, the input-output processor42a, for example, accesses the external storage via the expansion connector60and the connector for external memory card62to store and read the data.

Although a detailed description is omitted, as shown inFIG. 1, the game apparatus12(housing14) is furnished with the power button20a, the reset button20b, and the eject button20c. The power button20ais connected to the system LSI42. When the power button20ais turned on, the system LSI42sets a mode of a normal energized state (referred to as “normal mode”) in which the respective components of the game apparatus12are supplied with power through an AC adapter not shown. On the other hand, when the power button20ais turned off, the system LSI42sets a mode in which a part of the components of the game apparatus12is supplied with power, and the power consumption is reduced to minimum (hereinafter referred to as “standby mode”). In this embodiment, in a case that the standby mode is set, the system LSI42issues an instruction to stop supplying the power to the components except for the input-output processor42a, the flash memory44, the external main memory46, the ROM/RTC48and the wireless communication module50, and the wireless controller module52. Accordingly, the standby mode is a mode in which the CPU40never executes an application.

Although the system LSI42is supplied with power even in the standby mode, supply of clocks to the GPU42b, the DSP42cand the VRAM42dare stopped so as not to be driven, realizing reduction in power consumption.

Although illustration is omitted, inside the housing14of the game apparatus12, a fan is provided for excluding heat of the IC, such as the CPU40, the system LSI42, etc. to outside. In the standby mode, the fan is also stopped.

However, in a case that the standby mode is not desired to be utilized, when the power button20ais turned off, by making the standby mode unusable, the power supply to all the circuit components are completely stopped.

Furthermore, switching between the normal mode and the standby mode can be performed by turning on and off the power switch26h(seeFIG. 3) of the controller22by remote control. If the remote control is not performed, setting is made such that the power supply to the wireless controller module52is not performed in the standby mode.

The reset button20bis also connected with the system LSI42. When the reset button20bis pushed, the system LSI42restarts the activation program of the game apparatus12. The eject button20cis connected to the disk drive54. When the eject button20cis pushed, the optical disk18is removed from the disk drive54.

Each ofFIG. 3(A) toFIG. 3(E) shows one example of an external appearance of the controller22.FIG. 3(A) shows a front end surface of the controller22,FIG. 3(B) shows a top surface of the controller22,FIG. 3(C) shows a right side surface of the controller22,FIG. 3(D) shows a lower surface of the controller22, andFIG. 3(E) shows a back end surface of the controller22.

Referring toFIG. 3(A) andFIG. 3(E), the controller22has a housing22aformed by plastic molding, for example. The housing22ais formed into an approximately rectangular parallelepiped shape and has a size small enough to be held by one hand of a user. The housing22a(controller22) is provided with the input means (a plurality of buttons or switches)26. Specifically, as shown inFIG. 3(B), on an upper face of the housing22a, there are provided a cross key26a, a 1 button26b, a 2 button26c, an A button26d, a −button26e, a HOME button26f, a +button26gand a power switch26h. Moreover, as shown inFIG. 3(C) andFIG. 3(D), an inclined surface is formed on a lower surface of the housing22a, and a B-trigger switch26iis formed on the inclined surface.

The cross key26ais a four directional push switch, including four directions of front (or upper), back (or lower), right and left operation parts. By operating any one of the operation parts, it is possible to instruct a moving direction of a character or object (player character or player object) that is be operable by a player or instruct the moving direction of a cursor.

The 1 button26band the 2 button26care respectively push button switches, and are used for adjusting a viewpoint position and a viewpoint direction on displaying the 3D game image, i.e. a position and an image angle of a virtual camera. Alternatively, the 1 button26band the 2 button26ccan be used for the same operation as that of the A-button26dand the B-trigger switch26ior an auxiliary operation.

The A-button switch26dis the push button switch, and is used for causing the player character or the player object to take an action other than that instructed by a directional instruction, specifically arbitrary actions such as hitting (punching), throwing, grasping (acquiring), riding, and jumping, etc. For example, in an action game, it is possible to give an instruction to jump, punch, move a weapon, and so forth. Also, in a roll playing game (RPG) and a simulation RPG, it is possible to instruct to acquire an item, select and determine the weapon and command, and so forth.

The −button26e, the HOME button26f, the +button26g, and the power supply switch26hare also push button switches. The −button26eis used for selecting a game mode. The HOME button26fis used for displaying a game menu (menu screen). The +button26gis used for starting (re-starting) or pausing the game. The power supply switch26his used for turning on/off a power supply of the game apparatus12by remote control.

In this embodiment, note that the power supply switch for turning on/off the controller22itself is not provided, and the controller22is set at on-state by operating any one of the switches or buttons of the input means26of the controller22, and when not operated for a certain period of time (30 seconds, for example) or more, the controller22is automatically set at off-state.

The B-trigger switch26iis also the push button switch, and is mainly used for inputting a trigger such as shooting and designating a position selected by the controller22. In a case that the B-trigger switch26iis continued to be pushed, it is possible to make movements and parameters of the player object constant. In a fixed case, the B-trigger switch26ifunctions in the same way as a normal B-button, and is used for canceling the action determined by the A-button26d.

As shown inFIG. 3(E), an external expansion connector22bis provided on a back end surface of the housing22a, and as shown inFIG. 3(B), an indicator22cis provided on the top surface and the side of the back end surface of the housing22a. The external expansion connector22bis utilized for connecting another expansion controller not shown. The indicator22cis made up of four LEDs, for example, and shows identification information (controller number) of the controller22corresponding to the lighting LED by lighting any one of the four LEDs, and shows the remaining amount of power of the controller22depending on the number of LEDs to be emitted.

In addition, the controller22has an imaged information arithmetic section80(seeFIG. 4), and as shown inFIG. 3(A), on the front end surface of the housing22a, light incident opening22dof the imaged information arithmetic section80is provided. Furthermore, the controller22has a speaker86(seeFIG. 4), and the speaker86is provided inside the housing22aat the position corresponding to a sound release hole22ebetween the 1 button26band the HOME button26fon the tope surface of the housing22aas shown inFIG. 3(B).

Note that, the shape of the controller22and the shape, number and setting position of each input means26shown inFIG. 3(A) toFIG. 3(E) are simply examples, and needless to say, even if they are suitably modified, the present invention can be realized.

FIG. 4is a block diagram showing an electric configuration of the controller22. Referring toFIG. 4, the controller22includes a processor70, and the processor70is connected with the external expansion connector22b, the input means26, a memory72, an acceleration sensor74, a radio module76, the imaged information arithmetic section80, an LED82(the indicator22c), an vibrator84, a speaker86, and a power supply circuit88by an internal bus (not shown). Moreover, an antenna78is connected to the radio module76.

The processor70is in charge of an overall control of the controller22, and transmits (inputs) information (input information) inputted by the input means26, the acceleration sensor74, and the imaged information arithmetic section80as input data, to the game apparatus12via the radio module76and the antenna78. At this time, the processor70uses the memory72as a working area or a buffer area.

An operation signal (operation data) from the aforementioned input means26(26ato26i) is inputted to the processor70, and the processor70stores the operation data once in the memory72.

Moreover, the acceleration sensor74detects each acceleration of the controller22in directions of three axes of vertical direction (y-axial direction), lateral direction (x-axial direction), and forward and rearward directions (z-axial direction). The acceleration sensor74is typically an acceleration sensor of an electrostatic capacity type, but the acceleration sensor of other type may also be used.

For example, the acceleration sensor74detects the accelerations (ax, ay, and az) in each direction of x-axis, y-axis, z-axis for each first predetermined time, and inputs the data of the acceleration (acceleration data) thus detected in the processor70. For example, the acceleration sensor74detects the acceleration in each direction of the axes in a range from −2.0 g to 2.0 g (g indicates a gravitational acceleration. The same thing can be said hereafter.) The processor70detects the acceleration data given from the acceleration sensor74for each second predetermined time, and stores it in the memory72once. The processor70creates input data including at least one of the operation data, acceleration data and marker coordinate data as described later, and transmits the input data thus created to the game apparatus12for each third predetermined time (5 msec, for example).

In this embodiment, although omitted inFIG. 3(A) toFIG. 3(E), the acceleration sensor74is provided inside the housing22aand in the vicinity on the circuit board where the cross key26ais arranged.

The radio module76modulates a carrier of a predetermined frequency by the input data, by using a technique of Bluetooth, for example, and emits its weak radio wave signal from the antenna78. Namely, the input data is modulated to the weak radio wave signal by the radio module76and transmitted from the antenna78(controller22). The weak radio wave signal is received by the radio controller module52provided to the aforementioned game apparatus12. The weak radio wave thus received is subjected to demodulating and decoding processing. This makes it possible for the game apparatus12(CPU40) to acquire the input data from the controller22. Then, the CPU40performs game processing, following the input data and the program (game program).

In addition, as described above, the controller22is provided with the imaged information arithmetic section80. The imaged information arithmetic section80is made up of an infrared rays filter80a, a lens80b, an imager80c, and an image processing circuit80d. The infrared rays filter80apasses only infrared rays from the light incident from the front of the controller22. As described above, the markers340mand340nplaced near (around) the display screen of the monitor34are infrared LEDs for outputting infrared lights forward the monitor34. Accordingly, by providing the infrared rays filter80a, it is possible to image the image of the markers340mand340nmore accurately. The lens80bcondenses the infrared rays passing thorough the infrared rays filter80ato emit them to the imager80c. The imager80cis a solid imager, such as a CMOS sensor and a CCD, for example, and images the infrared rays condensed by the lens80b. Accordingly, the imager80cimages only the infrared rays passing through the infrared rays filter80ato generate image data. Hereafter, the image imaged by the imager80cis called an “imaged image”. The image data generated by the imager80cis processed by the image processing circuit80d. The image processing circuit80dcalculates a position of an object to be imaged (markers340mand340n) within the imaged image, and outputs each coordinate value indicative of the position to the processor70as imaged data for each fourth predetermined time. It should be noted that a description of the process in the image processing circuit80dis made later.

FIG. 5is a perspective view showing an appearance of the load controller36shown inFIG. 1. The load controller36includes a board36aon which a player rides (a player puts his or her foot) and at least four load sensors36bthat detect loads applied on the board36a. The load sensors36bare accommodated in the board36a(seeFIG. 7), and the arrangement of the load sensors36bis shown by dotted line inFIG. 5.

The board36ais formed in a substantially rectangle, and the board36ahas a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from above. For example, a short side of the rectangular is set in the order of about 30 cm, and a long side thereof is set in the order of 50 cm. An upper surface of the board36aon which the player rides is formed in flat. Side faces at four corners of the board36aare formed so as to be partially projected in a cylindrical shape.

In the board36a, the four load sensors36bare arranged at predetermined intervals. In the embodiment, the four load sensors36bare arranged in peripheral portions of the board36a, specifically, at the four corners. The interval between the load sensors36bis set an appropriate value such that player's intention can accurately be detected for the load applied to the board36ain a game manipulation.

FIG. 6shows a sectional view taken along the line VI-VI of the load controller36shown inFIG. 5, and also shows an enlarged corner portion disposed in the load sensor36b. As can be seen fromFIG. 6, the board36aincludes a support plate360on which the player rides and legs362. The legs362are provided at positions where the load sensors36bare arranged. In the embodiment, because the four load sensors36bare arranged at four corners, the four legs362are provided at the four corners. The leg362is formed in a cylindrical shape with bottom by, e.g., plastic molding. The load sensor36bis placed on a spherical part362aprovided in the bottom of the leg362. The support plate360is supported by the leg362while the load sensor36bis interposed.

The support plate360includes an upper-layer plate360athat constitutes an upper surface and an upper side face, a lower-layer plate360bthat constitutes a lower surface and a lower side face, and an intermediate-layer plate360cprovided between the upper-layer plate360aand the lower-layer plate360b. For example, the upper-layer plate360aand the lower-layer plate360bare formed by plastic molding and integrated with each other by bonding. For example, the intermediate-layer plate360cis formed by pressing one metal plate. The intermediate-layer plate360cis fixed onto the four load sensors36b. The upper-layer plate360ahas a lattice-shaped rib (not shown) in a lower surface thereof, and the upper-layer plate360ais supported by the intermediate-layer plate360cwhile the rib is interposed. Accordingly, when the player rides on the board36a, the load is transmitted to the support plate360, the load sensor36b, and the leg362. As shown by an arrow inFIG. 6, reaction generated from a floor by the input load is transmitted from the legs362to the upper-layer plate360athrough the spherical part362a, the load sensor36b, and the intermediate-layer plate360c.

The load sensor36bis formed by, e.g., a strain gage (strain sensor) type load cell, and the load sensor36bis a load transducer that converts the input load into an electric signal. In the load sensor36b, a strain inducing element370ais deformed to generate a strain according to the input load. The strain is converted into a change in electric resistance by a strain sensor370badhering to the strain inducing element370a, and the change in electric resistance is converted into a change in voltage. Accordingly, the load sensor36boutputs a voltage signal indicating the input load from an output terminal.

Other types of load sensors such as a folk vibrating type, a string vibrating type, an electrostatic capacity type, a piezoelectric type, a magneto-striction type, and gyroscope type may be used as the load sensor36b.

Returning toFIG. 5, the load controller36is further provided with a power button36c. When the power button36cis turned on, power is supplied to the respective circuit components (seeFIG. 7) of the load controller36. It should be noted that the load controller36may be turned on in accordance with an instruction from the game apparatus12. Furthermore, the power of the load controller36is turned off when a state that the player does not ride continues for a given time of period (30 seconds, for example). Alternatively, the power may be turned off when the power button36cis turned on in a state that the load controller36is activated.

FIG. 7is a block diagram showing an example of an electric configuration of the load controller36. InFIG. 7, the signal and communication stream are indicated by solid-line arrows, and electric power supply is indicated by broken-line arrows.

The load controller36includes a microcomputer100that controls an operation of the load controller36. The microcomputer100includes a CPU, a ROM and a RAM (not shown), and the CPU controls the operation of the load controller36according to a program stored in the ROM.

The microcomputer100is connected with the power button36c, the A/D converter102, a DC-DC converter104and a wireless module106. In addition, the wireless module106is connected with an antenna106a. Furthermore, the four load sensors36bare displayed as a load cell36binFIG. 3. Each of the four load sensors36bis connected to the A/D converter102via an amplifier108.

Furthermore, the load controller36is provided with a battery110for power supply. In another embodiment, an AC adapter in place of the battery is connected to supply a commercial power supply. In such a case, a power supply circuit has to be provided for converting alternating current into direct current and stepping down and rectifying the direct voltage in place of the DC-DC converter. In this embodiment, the power supply to the microcomputer100and the wireless module106are directly made from the battery. That is, power is constantly supplied to a part of the component (CPU) inside the microcomputer100and the wireless module106to thereby detect whether or not the power button36cis turned on, and whether or not a power-on (load detection) command is transmitted from the game apparatus12. On the other hand, power from the battery110is supplied to the load sensor36b, the A/D converter102and the amplifier108via the DC-DC converter104. The DC-DC converter104converts the voltage level of the direct current from the battery110into a different voltage level, and applies it to the load sensor36b, the A/D converter102and the amplifier108.

The electric power may be supplied to the load sensor36b, the A/D converter102, and the amplifier108if needed such that the microcomputer100controls the DC-DC converter104. That is, when the microcomputer100determines that a need to operate the load sensor36bto detect the load arises, the microcomputer100may control the DC-DC converter104to supply the electric power to each load sensor36b, the A/D converter102, and each amplifier108.

Once the electric power is supplied, each load sensor36boutputs a signal indicating the input load. The signal is amplified by each amplifier108, and the analog signal is converted into digital data by the A/D converter102. Then, the digital data is inputted to the microcomputer100. Identification information on each load sensor36bis imparted to the detection value of each load sensor36b, allowing for distinction among the detection values of the load sensors36b. Thus, the microcomputer100can obtain the pieces of data indicating the detection values of the four load sensors36bat the same time.

On the other hand, when the microcomputer100determines that the need to operate the load sensor36bdoes not arise, i.e., when the microcomputer100determines it is not the time the load is detected, the microcomputer100controls the DC-DC converter104to stop the supply of the electric power to the load sensor36b, the A/D converter102and the amplifier108. Thus, in the load controller36, the load sensor36bis operated to detect the load only when needed, so that the power consumption for detecting the load can be suppressed.

Typically, the time the load detection is required shall means the time the game apparatus12(FIG. 1) obtains the load data. For example, when the game apparatus12requires the load information, the game apparatus12transmits a load obtaining command to the load controller36. When the microcomputer100receives the load obtaining command from the game apparatus12, the microcomputer100controls the DC-DC converter104to supply the electric power to the load sensor36b, etc., thereby detecting the load. On the other hand, when the microcomputer100does not receive the load obtaining command from the game apparatus12, the microcomputer100controls the DC-DC converter104to stop the electric power supply.

Alternatively, the microcomputer100determines it is the time the load is detected at regular time intervals, and the microcomputer100may control the DC-DC converter104. In the case when the microcomputer100periodically detects the load, information on the period may initially be imparted from the game apparatus12to the microcomputer100of the load controller36or previously stored in the microcomputer100.

The data indicating the detection value from the load sensor36bis transmitted as the manipulation data (input data) of the load controller36from the microcomputer100to the game apparatus12(FIG. 1) through the wireless module106and the antenna106a. For example, in the case where the command is received from the game apparatus12to detect the load, the microcomputer100transmits the detection value data to the game apparatus12when receiving the detection value data of the load sensor36bfrom the A/D converter102. Alternatively, the microcomputer100may transmit the detection value data to the game apparatus12at regular time intervals. If the transmission cycle is longer than the detection cycle of the load, data including load values of the plurality of detection timings detected by the transmission timing is transmitted.

Additionally, the wireless module106can communicate by a radio standard (Bluetooth, wireless LAN, etc.) the same as that of the radio controller module52of the game apparatus12. Accordingly, the CPU40of the game apparatus12can transmit a load obtaining command to the load controller36via the radio controller module52, etc. The microcomputer100of the load controller36can receive a command from the game apparatus12via the wireless module106and the antenna106a, and transmit input data including load detecting values (or load calculating values) of the respective load sensors36bto the game apparatus12.

For example, in the case of a game performed based on the simple total value of the four load values detected by the four load sensors36b, the player can take any position with respect to the four load sensors36bof the load controller36, that is, the player can play the game while riding on any position of the board36awith any orientation. However, depending on the type of the game, it is necessary to perform processing while determining toward which direction the load value detected by each load sensors36bis orientated when viewed from the player. That is, it is necessary to understand a positional relationship between the four load sensors36bof the load controller36and the player. For example, the positional relationship between the four load sensors36band the player is previously defined, and it may be assumed that the player rides on the board36asuch that the predetermined positional relationship is obtained. Typically, there is defined such the positional relationship that each two load sensors36bexist at the front and the back of and on right and left sides of the player riding on the center of the board36a, i.e. such the positional relationship that the load sensors36bexist in the right front, left front, right rear, and left rear directions from the center of the player respectively when the player rides on the center of the board36aof the load controller36. In this case, in this embodiment, the board36aof the load controller36takes shape of a rectangle in a plane view, and the power button36cis provided on one side (long side) of the rectangle, and therefore, by means of the power button36cas a mark, the player is informed in advance that he or she rides on the board36asuch that the long side on which the power button36cis provided is positioned in a predetermined direction (front, back, left or right). Thus, a load value detected at each load sensor36bbecomes a load value in a predetermined direction (right front, left front, right back and left back) when viewed from the player. Accordingly, the load controller36and the game apparatus12can understand that to which direction each load detecting value corresponds, seen from the player on the basis of the identification information of each load sensor36bincluded in the load detection value data and the arrangement data set (stored) in advance for indicating a position or a direction of each load sensor36bwith respect to the player. This makes it possible to grasp an intention of a game operation by the player such as an operating direction from front to back and from side to side, for example.

The arrangement of the load sensors36brelative to the player is not previously defined but the arrangement may be set by the player's input in the initial setting, setting in the game, or the like. For example, the load is obtained while the screen in which the player instructed to ride on the portion in a predetermined direction (such as the right front, left front, right rear, and left rear directions) when viewed from the player. Therefore, the positional relationship between each load sensor36band the player can be specified, and the information on the arrangement by the setting can be generated and stored. Alternatively, a screen for selecting an arrangement of the load controller36is displayed on the screen of the monitor34to allow the player to select by an input with the controller22to which direction the mark (power button36c) exists when viewed from the player, and in response to the selection, arrangement data of each load sensor36bmay be generated and stored.

FIG. 8is an illustrative view roughly explaining a state in which the game is played using the controller22and load controller36. As shown inFIG. 8, when playing a game by utilizing the controller22and the load controller36in the video game system10, the player grasps the controller22in one hand while riding on the load controller36. Exactly, the player grasps the controller22with the front-end surface (the side of the incident port22dto which the light imaged by the imaged information arithmetic section80is incident) of the controller22orientated toward the markers340mand340nwhile riding on the load controller36. However, as can be seen fromFIG. 1, the markers340mand340nare disposed in parallel with the crosswise direction of the screen of the monitor34. In this state of things, the player changes the position on the screen indicated by the controller22or the distance between the controller22and the marker340mor340nto perform the game manipulation.

Additionally, althoughFIG. 8shows that by placing the load controller36vertically to the screen of the monitor34(placing it such that the direction of the long side is vertical to the screen), the player is transverse to the screen, a position of the load controller36and a direction of the player with respect to the screen may arbitrarily be changed depending on the kind of the game, and by placing (by placing it such that the long side direction is parallel with the screen) the load controller36horizontally to the screen, the player may be oriented to face with the screen, for example.

FIG. 9is an illustrative view for explaining view angles of the markers340mand340nand controller22. As shown inFIG. 9, the markers340mand340neach emit the infrared ray in a range of a view angle θ1. The imager80cof the imaged information arithmetic section80can receive the incident light in a range of a view angle θ2around a visual axis direction of the controller22. For example, each of the markers340mand340nhas the view angle θ1of 34° (half-value angle), and the imager80chas the view angle θ2of 41°. The player grasps the controller22such that the imager80cis set to the position and orientation at which the infrared rays can be received from the two markers340mand340n. Specifically, the player grasps the controller22such that at least one of the markers340mand340nexists in the view angle θ2of the imager80cwhile the controller22exists in the view angle θ1of at least one of the markers340mand340n. In this state, the controller22can detect at least one of the markers340mand340n. The player can change the position and orientation of the controller22to perform the game manipulation in the range satisfying this state.

In the case where the position and orientation of the controller22are out of the range, the game manipulation cannot be performed based on the position and orientation of the controller22. Hereinafter the range is referred to as “manipulable range”.

In the case where the controller22is grasped in the manipulable range, the images of the markers340mand340nare taken by the imaged information arithmetic section80. That is, the imaged image obtained by the imager80cincludes the images (target images) of the markers340mand340nthat are of the imaging target.FIG. 10is a view showing an example of the imaged image including the target image. Using the image data of the imaged image including the target image, the image processing circuit80dcomputes the coordinate (marker coordinate) indicating the position in the imaged images of the markers340mand340n.

Because the target image appears as a high-brightness portion in the image data of the imaged image, the image processing circuit80ddetects the high-brightness portion as a candidate of the target image. Then, the image processing circuit80ddetermines whether or not the high-brightness portion is the target image based on the size of the detected high-brightness portion. Sometimes the imaged image includes not only images340m′ and340n′ corresponding to the two markers340mand340nthat are of the target image but also the image except for the target image due to the sunlight from a window or a fluorescent light. The processing of the determination whether or not the high-brightness portion is the target image is performed in order to distinguish the images340m′ and340n′ of the makers340mand340nthat are of the target image from other images to exactly detect the target image. Specifically, the determination whether or not the detected high-brightness portion has the size within a predetermined range is made in the determination processing. When the high-brightness portion has the size within the predetermined range, it is determined that the high-brightness portion indicates the target image. On the contrary, when the high-brightness portion does not have the size within the predetermined range, it is determined that the high-brightness portion indicates the image except for the target image.

Then, the image processing circuit80dcomputes the position of the high-brightness portion for the high-brightness portion in which it is determined indicate the target image as a result of the determination processing. Specifically, a position of the center of gravity of the high-brightness portion is computed. Hereinafter, the coordinate of the position of the center of gravity is referred to as marker coordinate. The position of the center of gravity can be computed in more detail compared with resolution of the imager80c. At this point, it is assumed that the image taken by the imager80chas the resolution of 126×96 and the position of the center of gravity is computed in a scale of 1024×768. That is, the marker coordinate is expressed by an integer number of (0, 0) to (1024, 768).

The position in the imaged image is expressed by a coordinate system (XY-coordinate system) in which an origin is set to an upper left of the imaged image, a downward direction is set to a positive Y-axis direction, and a rightward direction is set to a positive X-axis direction.

In the case where the target image is correctly detected, two marker coordinates are computed because the two high-brightness portions are determined as the target image by the determination processing. The image processing circuit80doutputs the pieces of data indicating the two computed marker coordinates. As described above, the outputted pieces of marker coordinate data are added to the input data by the processor70and transmitted to the game apparatus12.

When the game apparatus12(CPU40) detects the marker coordinate data from the received input data, the game apparatus12can compute the position (indicated coordinate) indicated by the controller22on the screen of the monitor34and the distances between the controller22and the markers340mand340nbased on the marker coordinate data. Specifically, the position toward which the controller22is orientated, i.e., the indicated position is computed from the position at the midpoint of the two marker coordinates. Accordingly, the controller22functions as a pointing device for instructing an arbitrary position within the screen of the monitor34. The distance between the target images in the imaged image is changed according to the distances between the controller22and the markers340mand340n, and therefore, by computing the distance between the marker coordinates, the game apparatus12can compute the current distances between the controller22and the markers340mand340n.

In the game system10, a game is performed by a player's motion by putting the feet on and down from the load controller36. In this embodiment, a step-up-and-down exercise game is performed. The step-up-and-down exercise is an exercise of repetitively putting the foot of a person on and down from the board. As shown inFIG. 11, the player plays the game by performing a motion of putting the foot on and down it from the load controller36while regarding the load controller36as a stepping board.

FIG. 11shows a case that the player performs a step-up-and-down exercise from the right foot on the load controller36placed in front of him as one example. More specifically, as a first step (FIG.11(A)), the right foot is put on, as a second step (FIG.11(B)), the left foot is put on, as a third step (FIG.11(C)), the right foot is put down backward, and as a fourth step (FIG.11(D)), the left foot is put down backward.

The motion of stepping up and down the load controller36is according to an instruction on the game screen described below, and can be changed as necessary. Accordingly,FIG. 11shows that the stepping up and down exercise starts from the right foot, but may start from the left foot. Furthermore,FIG. 11shows that the player first puts down the foot which has formerly been ridden, but may first put down the foot which has later been ridden. InFIG. 11, the player steps up and down while moving forward and backward. Alternatively, the player may step up and down while moving from side to side, or may step up and down while moving backward and forward, and from side to side in combination.

FIG. 12shows one example of a game screen. At the center in the horizontal direction of the screen, a plurality of panels400are displayed for instructing the player how to move. Each panel400shows a part of motion making up of the motions of the step-up-and-down exercise in this embodiment. The arrangement of the plurality (four in this embodiment) of panels400in a predetermined order can inform the motion to be executed by the player in the step-up-and-down exercise as a series of motions.

More specifically, in each panel400, two right and left foot prints are drawn, and by changing a color, a shape, a pattern, etc. of the foot prints, a stepping up and down motion to be performed by the right and left feet is represented. Additionally, as a basic manner of the panel400, a base color is drawn in white, and a line of the foot prints is drawn in gray, for example. If no motion is required to be executed, the panel400in this basic manner is used. InFIG. 12, a series of motions of the step-up-and-down exercise shown inFIG. 11is instructed by four panels400a-400d. The panel400ais a panel for instructing the player to put a right foot on as a first step as shown inFIG. 11(A). For example, the foot print of the right foot is represented in red to show that the right foot is ridden from a state that no foot is ridden. The panel400bis a panel for instructing the player to put the left foot on as a second step as shown inFIG. 11(B). For example, the left foot print is colored red, and the red of the right foot print is paled. This shows that the left step is further ridden from the state that the right foot is ridden. The panel400cis a panel for instructing the player to put the right foot down as a third step as shown inFIG. 11(C). For example, the red of the left foot print is paled, and a red down arrow is drawn on the right foot print. This shows that the right foot is put down rearward from a state that both of the feet are ridden. The panel400dis a panel for instructing the player to put the left foot down as a fourth step as shown inFIG. 11(D). For example, a red down arrow is drawn on the left foot print. This shows that the left foot is put down rearward in a state that the left foot is ridden.

Each panel400is constructed so as to sequentially appear from the upper end of the screen, move down, and disappear to the lower end of the screen. At a predetermined position below the center of the screen, a frame402is fixedly arranged. The frame402is provided on the moving path of the panels400, and the panel400is stopped within the frame402for a set amount of time. The frame402can instruct the panel400for a motion to currently be executed. The panel400moving into the position of the frame402out of the plurality of panels400indicates a motion to be currently executed.

In addition, on the screen, a plurality of characters404are displayed at the right and left of the panel400, for example. These characters404are controlled so as to make their actions according to the instruction by the panel400and the frame402. InFIG. 12, since the panel400amoves into the frame402, each of the characters404performs a motion of putting the right foot on the board. By the action of each of the characters404, it is possible to confirm the motion instructed on the panel400.

The player performs a motion on the load controller36according to a motion instruction. In the game apparatus12, it is determined whether or not the instructed motion is performed by the player on the basis of a load value detected by the load controller36. If it is determined that the motion is performed, the player can gain a score. In addition, the timing of the motion is judged, and if the timing is good, a high score can be gained.

As shown inFIG. 13, in this embodiment, the judgment of the motion is performed by being brought into association with a state of the movement of the panel400for instructing a motion. As described above, the plurality of panels400are controlled so as to move from top to bottom in a predetermined alignment on the screen, and to stop within the frame402for a set amount of time, so that a panel400moving from top stops for a set amount of time in a state that it is adjacent to the frame402, and then starts moving. The motion instructed to the player by the panel400is required to be executed from when the panel400stars entering into the frame402to when the panel400starts going out from the frame402. Thus, a time limit is prepared for the judgment of the motion, and the time limit is decided to be a suitable value in advance as a success-or-failure judgment time TA. The success-or-failure judgment time (time limit) TA is set to a suitable value depending on how fast the player is made to perform the motion of stepping up and down, for example.

Furthermore, the panel400is stopped within the frame402after a predetermined time PS elapses from the start of the movement, and then continues to be stopped until the time limit TA expires. The provision of the stopping period to the movement of the panels can clearly show the player when an instruction of each motion is started and ended. The panel stopping time PS is set to a proper value in advance by experiments, etc. so as to be timing suitable for a motion of stepping up and down, for example. For example, the timing when the foot moving for stepping up and down accurately touches the load controller36or the ground (floor) may be adopted. Thus, the player can perform a motion according to the moving state of the panels400such that he or she puts the foot down and on another place while the panels400moves, and completely puts the foot on in order to prepare for a next position while the panel400is stopped.

If it is not determined that the motion is performed from when the instruction panel400starts to move to when the time limit TA expires, it is determined that the execution of the motion fails. If it is a failure judgment, the player is not scored.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the motion is performed by the time when the time limit TA expires, it is determined that the execution of the motion succeeds, and the player is scored. Accordingly, for example, even if the motion is performed by a foot different from the instructed foot, if the motion is done again by the accurate foot by the time when the time limit TA expires, a success judgment is performed.

In addition, in this embodiment, a score corresponding to the timing when it is determined that a motion is performed may be given. Out of the success judgment, a motion performed in good timing called a perfect judgment, and the rest is called an OK judgment. As a time for discriminating the perfect judgment from the OK judgment, a perfect judgment time from Tp0to Tp1is set. When the elapsed time when it is determined that the motion is performed falls in the range from Tp0to Tp1, the perfect judgment is made. That is, the period when the elapsed time falls in the range from Tp0to Tp1is a perfect judgment area, the period when the elapsed time falls in the range from 0 to Tp0and the period when the elapsed time falls in the range from Tp1to TA are OK judgment areas.

The perfect judgment times Tp0and Tp1are decided to be a value suitable for a motion of stepping up and down by experiments. In a case that the panel stopping time PS is determined to be timing suitable for the motion as described above, predetermined times before and after the panel stopping time PS are adopted as perfect judgment areas. In this case, the player can easily obtain a perfect judgment if the foot is put on the load controller36or the ground at right timing when the instruction panel400on the screen is stopped.

As to the motions of step-up-and-down exercise at first to third steps, by a detected load value, whether each motion is performed or not can be determined, and by the timing when the motion is performed, whether the OK judgment or the perfect judgment can be determined. However, as to a motion at the fourth step for putting down the left foot which was put on the load controller36on the floor to thereby put the both feet on the floor, it is difficult to determine the timing when the motion is performed by the detected load value. The reason why that at a time when the foot is put down from the load controller36, the load value already becomes approximately zero, and it is impossible to observe from a change of the load value that the foot is put on the floor, so that the motion at the fourth step is finished.

Here, in this embodiment, the judgment timing of a motion at the fourth step is decided on the basis of an elapsed time from when the instruction of the motion is given. More specifically, as shown inFIG. 14, the timing when it is determined that a motion at the third step is performed is utilized as the judgment timing of the motion at the fourth step. The motion at the fourth step is a motion of putting the foot down from the load controller36similarly to the motion at the third step, and the third step is a motion immediately before, and therefore, the motion at the fourth step is expected to be performed in much the same way as the motion at the third step. The judgment condition of a motion at the third step is set on the basis of the load value detected when the left foot which was put down from the load controller36is put on the ground as described later. Accordingly, an elapsed time T3from when the movement of the instruction panel400at the third step is started to when the condition of the third step is satisfied is measured, and the elapsed time T3is set as a judgment timing of the fourth step. That is, the judgment of the motion at the fourth step is performed when an elapsed time T4from the start of the movement of the instruction panel400at the fourth step is equal to or more than T3. Thus, since the judgment timing of the motion at the fourth step can be decided on the basis of the timing when execution of the motion at the third step is judged, it is possible to make a suitable judgment with simple processing.

Here, in a case that the player does not perform a motion according to an instruction, it is impossible to measure the elapsed time T3at the third step, and therefore, in this case, when a predetermined time elapses from the start of the instruction of the fourth step, a judgment timing of a motion at the fourth step is decided to thereby make a judgment of the motion at the fourth step on the basis of the load value. As described above, since the stopping time PS of the panel400is set so as to be suitable for a motion of stepping up and down, and the perfect judgment areas are set before and after the PS, it is expected that the player puts the feet together in response to the stop of the panel400. Accordingly, in this embodiment, by utilizing the panel stopping time PS as a judgment timing of a motion at the fourth step, it is possible to determine the motion at an appropriate timing. That is, in a case that the elapsed time T3at the third step cannot be detected, the judgment of a motion at the fourth step is performed after the elapsed time from the start of the movement of the panel400is equal to or more than the panel stopping time PS.

Thus, on the basis of the elapsed time from the instruction of the motion at the fourth step, the judgment timing of the motion at the fourth step is decided, and therefore, it is possible to appropriately decide the judgment timing of a motion by the player.

FIG. 15shows one example of a memory map of the game apparatus12. The memory map includes a program memory area500and a data memory area502. The program and the data are read from the optical disk18entirely at a time, or partially and sequentially as necessary so as to be stored into the external memory46or the internal memory42e. Furthermore, in the data memory area502, data generated or fetched by the processing is also stored. The program is a load detecting program for making the game system10function as a load detecting apparatus.

Additionally,FIG. 15shows only a part of the memory map, and other programs and data necessary for processing are also stored. For example, sound data for outputting a sound such as a voice, a sound effect, music, etc., image data for generating a screen, a sound output program, an image generating and displaying program, etc. are read from the optical disk18, and stored in the data memory area502or the program memory area500. It should be noted that in this embodiment, a program and data are read from the optical disk18, but in another embodiment, a program and data stored in advance in a nonvolatile storage medium such as the flash memory44, etc. incorporated in the game apparatus12is read so as to be stored in the external memory46or the internal memory42e. Alternatively, a program, etc. downloaded via a network by utilizing the radio communication module50of the game apparatus12or a communication module connected to the expansion connector60may be stored in the storage medium.

A memory area504stores a load value detecting program. The program is for detecting a load value of the load controller36. For example, when a load is required, a load obtaining command is transmitted to the load controller36via the radio controller module52, and a load value of each load sensor36bis detected from the data of the load controller36received in the radio controller module52. At a time of a judgment of the motion, a load value is fetched at an interval of a constant period, such as one frame ( 1/60 seconds), for example.

A memory area506stores a motion instructing program. The program is for instructing a player of a motion to be executed. The movements and stops of the plurality of panels400for instructing a series of motions are controlled on the basis of the success-or-failure judgment time TA and the panel stopping time PS, etc. as described above.

The elapsed time counting program is a program for measuring a lapse of time after the instruction of a motion. More specifically, the time when a panel400starts to move from the position upwardly adjacent to the frame402into the frame402is the time when the motion corresponding to the panel400is instructed, and therefore, the time is counted from when the panel400starts to move into the frame402.

A memory area510stores a judgment timing deciding program. The program is for deciding whether a judgment timing of the motion or not on the basis of an elapsed time. In this embodiment, the judgment timing of a motion at the fourth step of the step-up-and-down exercise is decided. More specifically, as described above, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time T4from the instruction of a motion at the fourth step is equal to or more than the elapsed time T3measured at a motion at the third step. Or, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time T4is equal to or more than the panel stopping time PS.

A memory area512stores a load determining program. The program is for determining whether or not the detected load value becomes a predetermined state. The predetermined state is a state in which a condition for determining each motion of the step-up-and-down exercise is satisfied. The judgment condition of each motion is a ratio of a load value to a body weight value of the player, and a position of the center of gravity of the load value. In this embodiment, it is determined whether or not the load value detected as to a motion at the third step of the step-up-and-down exercise becomes a predetermined state, and the elapsed time T3from when the instruction of the motion is started to when it is determined that the load value becomes the predetermined state is adopted as a judgment timing of a motion at the fourth step.

A memory area514stores a motion determining program. The program is, when it is determined that the judgment timing of a motion has come, for determining whether or not the motion is performed on the basis of the load value. In this embodiment, when it is determined that the judgment timing of a motion at the fourth step of the step-up-and-down exercise has come, it is determined whether or not the motion is performed on the basis of the detected load value.

A memory area516stores a motion's completion notifying program. The program is for notifying the player that the motion is performed when it is determined that the instructed motion is performed. This makes it possible to easily inform the player whether or not the motion is executed. In this embodiment, by outputting a predetermined sound indicating that execution of the instructed motion is determined from the speaker34a, it is possible to inform the player that the instructed motion is performed. Furthermore, this may be informed by an image display such as change of a color of the panel400corresponding to the instructed motion, and display of letters representing a success on the screen, for example.

A memory area518of the data memory area502stores a body weight value of the player. The body weight value is calculated by summing load values of all the load sensors36bdetected when the player rides still on the load controller36. Additionally, when the body weight value is measured, a screen for instructing the player to gently ride on the load controller36with both feet is displayed before start of the step-up-and-down exercise.

A memory area520stores a time counter. The time counter is a counter for counting an elapsed time from an instruction of each motion. In this embodiment, the count is performed at an interval of a preset time (1 frame).

A memory area522stores a load value of each of the load sensors36bdetected by the load detecting program. When judgment of the condition of a motion is performed by the load determining program or the motion determining program, a ratio between a sum of the load values and a body weight value, and a position of the center of gravity are calculated.

A memory area524stores a position of the center of gravity. The position of the center of gravity is a position of the center of gravity of a load value of each load sensor36bof the load controller36. In this embodiment, as understood from that the two foot prints are arranged in a direction of the long side of the rectangle instruction panel400shown inFIG. 12, the step-up-and-down exercise is performed such that the long side of the rectangular board36aof the load controller36positions in a back-and-forth direction of the player, and the short side positions in a right and left direction of the player. Then, since a position of the center of gravity in the right and left direction is used for the judgment of the motion, the position of the center of gravity in the right and left direction is calculated on the basis of the fetched load value of each of the load sensors36bacquired in the memory area522, and stored in the memory area524.

When a load value detected by the load sensor36bat the left front of the player is a, when a load value detected by the load sensor36bat the left back is b, when a load value detected by the load sensor36bat the right front is c, when a load value detected by the load sensor36bat the right back is d, the position of the center of gravity in the right and left direction XG is calculated by Equation 1 below.
XG=((c+d)−(a+b))*m[Equation 1]

Here, m is a constant, and set to a value satisfying −1≦XG≦1.

Additionally, although not utilized in this embodiment, in another embodiment, judgment may be decided on the basis of a position of the center of gravity in a back and forth direction depending on the motion, and in this case, a position of the center of gravity in a back and forth direction YG is calculated by a following Equation 2.
YG=((a+c)−(b+d))*n[Equation 2]

Here, n is a constant, and set to a value satisfying −1≦YG≦1.

Thus, a position of the center of gravity in a right and left direction XG is calculated on the basis of the difference between the load value (c+d) at the right of the player and the load value (a+b) at the left of the player, and the position of the center of gravity in a back-and-forth direction YG is calculated on the basis of the difference between the load value (a+c) in front of the player and the load value (b+d) at the rear of the player.

It should be noted toward which direction (right front, right back, left front, left back in this embodiment) each load sensor36bexists when viewed from the player can be grasped from the arrangement data which is decided in advance or set by the player so as to be stored as described above.

A memory area526stores an elapsed time counted by the elapsed time counting program. More specifically, an elapsed time from when a motion instruction at the first step of the step-up-and-down exercise is given to when it is determined that the motion is performed is stored as T1. For example, the time when the motion instruction is given is a time when the panel400of the motion starts to move into the frame402, and the time when it is determined that the motion is performed is a time when a motion completion sound is output. Similarly, an elapsed time as to a motion at the second step is stored as T2, and an elapsed time as to a motion at the third step is stored as T3. Furthermore, as to an elapsed time T4of a motion at the fourth step, an elapsed time from when a motion at the fourth step instruction is given to the present is stored.

A memory area528stores a panel stopping time PS indicating a time during which the instruction panel400is stopped. A memory area530stores the success-or-failure judgment time TA indicating a time limit for judging a motion to be currently executed. A memory area532stores the perfect judgment time Tp0, Tp1for defining the perfect judgment area. The panel stopping time PS, the success-or-failure judgment time TA, and the perfect judgment time Tp0, Tp1are read from the optical disk18. In this embodiment, a common value suitable for the respective motions at the first to fourth steps is set in each of the PS, the TA, the Tp0and the Tp1such that the step-up-and-down exercise is performed at a constant rhythm. It should be noted that in another embodiment, different values for each motion may be set to the PS, the TA, the Tp0and the Tp1.

A memory area534stores a result of the game. As a game result, a score of the player, an evaluation (perfect, OK or failure), etc. of the respective motions at the first to the fourth steps are stored.

FIG. 16shows one example of an operation of the game apparatus12when a step-up-and-down exercise is performed. In a step S1, the CPU40executes body weight value measuring processing. A load value of each load sensor36bwhen the player calmly rides on the load controller36is detected. More specifically, the CPU40transmits a load obtaining command to the load controller36via the radio controller module52, etc. In response thereto, the microcomputer100of the load controller36detects a load value of each of the load sensors36b, and transmits input data including each of the load values to the game apparatus12via the wireless module106, etc. The CPU40receives the input data including each of the load values via the radio controller module52, etc., and detects each of the load values so as to store the same in the memory area522. Then, a body weight value is calculated by summing all the load values of all the load sensors36b. Additionally, a screen for instructing the player to ride on the load controller36with both feet may be displayed on the monitor34.

In a succeeding step S3, the CPU40writes the body weight value to the external main memory46. Thus, the body weight value of the player is stored in the memory area518.

Then, in a step S5, the CPU40displays the instruction panels400. More specifically, the CPU40generates a game screen shown inFIG. 12including the instruction panels400by utilizing the GPU42b, etc. of the system LSI42to display the same on the monitor34. Here, as described above, each of the panels400for instructing each motion of the step-up-and-down exercise is displayed at a predetermined initial position at the top of the center of the screen in a predetermined order and downwardly moves toward the frame402while including a constant stopped time. The control of the movement from the time when the motion of each panel400becomes a motion to be currently executed is executed in processing for each motion, and therefore, in the step S5, the processing is executed until the instruction panel400at the first step is a motion to be executed, that is, the instruction panel400at the first step is stopped upwardly adjacent to the frame402.

Succeedingly, in a step S7, the CPU40executes first step processing for judging a motion at the first step of the step-up-and-down exercise. The detail of the first step processing is shown inFIG. 17described later. Furthermore, in each of steps S9, S11and S13, the CPU40executes second step processing for judging a motion at the second step, third step processing for judging a motion at the third step and fourth step processing for judging a motion at the fourth step. The detail of the second step processing, the third step processing and the fourth step processing are shown inFIG. 18,FIG. 19andFIG. 20, respectively, described later.

In a step S15, the CPU40determines whether or not a game is to be ended. For example, it is determined whether or not the step-up-and-down exercise is performed for a predetermined time period or at a predetermined number of times. If “NO” in the step S15, the process returns to the step S7to judge each of the motions of the step-up-and-down exercise again. On the other hand, in a case that it is determined that the game end condition is satisfied in the step S15, the CPU40executes game end processing in a step S17to end the game processing of the step-up-and-down exercise. For example, the sum of the scores obtained by the successes of the respective motions of the step-up-and-down exercise is calculated, the score and a result of the evaluation corresponding to the score are displayed, and so forth.

FIG. 17shows one example of an operation of the CPU40in the first step processing shown in the step S7. The first step of the step-up-and-down exercise is a motion of putting the right foot on the load controller36as shown inFIG. 11(A). When the first step processing is started, the CPU40starts movement processing of the instruction panels400according to the motion instructing program in a step S31. The panel400for instructing a motion at the first step is the panel400ashown inFIG. 12. The movement processing of the panels400started in the step S1is executed in parallel with other processing inFIG. 17. By the movement processing of the panels400, the panel400amoves into the frame402from the position upwardly adjacent to the frame402. As shown inFIG. 13, the panel400ais controlled such that the panel400ais within the frame402when the predetermined time PS elapses from the start of the movement, and continues to be stopped within the frame402until the predetermined time TA elapses from the start of the movement.

The processing in succeeding steps S33-S43is executed at a set intervals of times (one frame) until it is determined that a motion at the first step is performed on the basis of the load values in the step S41, or until it is determined that a motion at the first step is not performed within the time limit in the step S43.

In the step S33, the CPU40executes time counting processing. For example, by incrementing the time counter, the value of the time counter of the memory area520is updated. By the time counting processing, it is possible to count an elapsed time from when the motion instruction is given.

Furthermore, in the step S35, the CPU40executes load value fetching processing. More specifically, the CPU40transmits a load obtaining command to the load controller36via the radio controller module52, etc. In response thereto, input data including the detected load values is transmitted from the load controller36. The CPU40detects the load values of the respective load sensors36bfrom the input data received by the wireless controller module52, and stores the same in the memory area522.

It is determined whether or not the instructed motion on the panel400is performed on the basis of the detected load values. The judgment of the motion is performed on the basis of a ratio of the load values to the body weight value, and a position of the center of gravity.

More specifically, in the step S37, the CPU40determines whether or not the load value is 25-75% of the body weight value. The load value compared with the condition here is a sum of the load values of the respective load sensors36bstored in the memory area522. The ratio of the sum of the load values to the body weight value in the memory area518is calculated, and it is determined whether or not the ratio is within the range of 25-75% as a judgment condition of the first step. The judgment condition relating to the ratio is set to an appropriate value by experiments in advance and stored. The motion at the first step in this embodiment is a motion of putting the right foot on the load controller36. Here, when the motion of the right foot is performed, the left foot remains to be put on the ground, so that the half of all the player's weight is put on the load controller36. Thus, in view of the difference of the balance of the loads put on the right and left feet due to a habit for each player, etc., if the sum of the detected loads is 25-75% of the body weight value, it can be determined that one foot is put on the load controller36.

If “YES” in the step S37, that is, if the condition of the ratio of the load values is satisfied, the CPU40calculates a position of the center of gravity in order to perform the judgment of a condition of the position of the center of gravity in the step S39and stores it in the memory area524. The position of the center of gravity is calculated on the basis of the load values of the respective load sensors36bstored in the memory area522according to the above-described Equation 1.

Then, in the step S41, the CPU40determines whether or not the position of the center of gravity falls in the range of 0.01 to 1 as a judgment condition at the first step. The motion at the first step in this embodiment is a motion of putting the right foot on the load controller36, and the right foot is put on the right side of the load controller36when viewed from the player, and therefore, the position of the center of gravity appears on the right side of the load controller36when viewed from the player. Accordingly, if the calculated position of the center of gravity falls in the range of 0.01 to 1, it can be determined that the right foot is put on the load controller36.

If “NO” in the step S41, that is, if the condition of the position of the center of gravity is not satisfied, it can be determined that the motion at the first step is not performed. Furthermore, if “NO” in the step S37, that is, if the condition of the ratio of the load values is also not satisfied, the same is true for this. In these cases, the CPU40determines whether or not the predetermined time TA elapses from the start of the movement of the panel in the step S43. The elapsed time from the start of the movement of the panel to the present can be fetched by the value of the time counter of the memory area520. Furthermore, the predetermined time TA is a success-or-failure judgment time of the memory area530, that is, a time limit. If “NO” in the step S43, that is, if the elapsed time falls within the time limit of the motion judgment at the first step, the process returns to the step S33. Accordingly, until the time limit expires, the motion judgment at the first step is continued on the basis of the detected load value.

On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S43, that is, if the time limit expires without the motion at the first step being performed, the CPU40executes failure processing in a step S45. Since it is determined that the player cannot perform the instructed motion at the first step by the panel400, a score is not given to the player. Furthermore, data indicating the failure judgment as to the motion at first step is stored in the game result memory area534. Alternatively, a failure of the motion may be displayed on the screen by letters of FAILURE, etc.

Furthermore, if “YES” in the step S41, that is, if it is determined that the motion at the first step is performed, the CPU40informs the player of this with a motion completion sound in a step S47. More specifically, the CPU40generates audio data for outputting a motion completion sound on the basis of predetermined sound data by utilizing the DSP42c, etc., and outputs the sound from the speaker34avia the AV IC56, etc. Thus, the player is easily informed that the motion at the first step is successful.

In a succeeding step S49, the CPU40detects an elapsed time T1from the start of the movement of the instruction panel400to the notification with the motion completion sound, that is, detects the elapsed time T1from when the motion instruction is given to when it is determined that the motion is performed on the basis of the value of the time counter in the memory area520, and stores the same in the memory area526.

Then, in a step S51, the CPU40determines whether or not the elapsed time T1is equal to or more than Tp0and equal to or less than Tp1. The Tp0and Tp1are threshold values for a perfect judgment, and stored in the memory area532. If “YES” in the step S51, that is, if the elapsed time T1is a value within the perfect judgment area, the CPU40executes perfect success processing in a step S53. More specifically, a score higher than that in the OK judgment is given to the player, and is added to the score data of the player in the game result memory area534. Furthermore, evaluation data indicating the perfect judgment as to the motion at the first step is also stored in the memory area534. Additionally, the fact the motion is perfect may be displayed on the screen by letters of PERFECT, etc.

On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S51, that is, if the motion is not performed at timing within the perfect judgment area, the CPU40executes OK success processing in a step S55. More specifically, a score lower than that in the perfect judgment is given to the player, and is added to the score data of the player in the game result memory area534. Furthermore, evaluation data indicating the OK judgment as to the motion at the first step is also stored in the memory area534. Additionally, the fact the motion is OK may be displayed on the screen by letters of PERFECT, etc.

When the processing in the step S45, the step S53or the step S55is ended, the first step processing is ended, and the process proceeds to the second step processing in the step S9.

FIG. 18shows one example of an operation of the CPU40in the second step processing in the step S9. The second step in the step-up-and-down exercise is a motion of putting the left foot on the load controller36as shown inFIG. 11(B).

Additionally, as shown inFIG. 13described above, the instruction panel400stops when a predetermined time PS elapses from when it starts to move into the frame402, and the instruction panel400starts to move outside the frame402when a further predetermined time TA elapses. At the same time, an instruction panel400of a next motion starts to move into the frame402. That is, when the predetermined time TA elapses from when the previous panel400starts to move, the next panel400starts to move to thereby instruct the player to when to move. Accordingly, the second step processing is executed when the predetermined time TA elapses from the start of the movement of the instruction panel400in the first step processing. If the perfect success processing in the step S53or the OK success processing in the step S55is performed in the first step processing, execution of the second step processing is waited until the predetermined time TA elapses.

When starting the second step processing, the CPU40starts movement processing of the instruction panels400in a step S71. The movement processing of the panels400is similar to that in the above-described step S31. Here, the panel400for instructing a motion at the second step is the panel400bshown inFIG. 12.

Processing in succeeding steps S73-S83is executed at a set intervals of times (one frame) until it is determined that a motion at the second step is performed on the basis of the load value in the step S81, or it is determined that the motion at the second step is not performed within the time limit in the step S83.

In the step S73, the CPU40executes time counting processing similar to the above-described step S33. Furthermore, in the step S75, the CPU40executes load value fetching processing similar to the above-described step S35.

Then, in the step S77, the CPU40determines whether or not the load value is equal to or more than 95% of the body weight value. A judgment condition of a ratio of the load value to the body weight value with respect to the motion at the second step is set to equal to or more than 95% in advance. The motion at the second step is a motion of further putting the left foot on the load controller36from a state the right foot is put thereon, and when the motion at the second step is completed, almost all the player's weight is put on the load controller36. If the sum of the detected loads is equal to or more than 95% of the body weight value, it can be determined that both of the feet are put on the load controller36.

If “YES” in the step S77, the CPU40calculates a position of the center of gravity similar to the above-described step S39in the step S79. Then, in the step S81, the CPU40determines whether or not the position of the center of gravity falls in the range of −0.7 to 0.7 as a judgment condition of the second step. By the motion at the second step, both of the feet are put on the load controller36, so that the position of the center of gravity appears at approximately the center of the load controller36. Accordingly, in view of the difference in the position of the center of gravity due to a habit for each player, etc., if the calculated position of the center of gravity falls in the range of −0.7 to 0.7, it can be determined that the motion at the second step is completed and both of the feet are put on the load controller36.

If “NO” in the step S81, or if “NO” in the step S77, it can be determined that the motion at the second step is not performed. In these cases, the CPU40determines whether or not the predetermined time TA elapses from the start of the movement of the panel similar to the above-described step S43in the step S83. If “NO” in the step S83, the process returns to the step S73.

On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S83, that is, if the time limit expires without execution of the motion at the second step being determined, the CPU40executes failure processing similar to the above-described step S45in a step S85. Here, since the motion judgment is as to the second step, the evaluation data indicating a failure judgment as to the motion at the second step is stored in the game result memory area534.

Furthermore, if “YES” in the step S81, that is, if it is determined that the motion at the second step is performed, the CPU40informs this with a motion completion sound similar to the above-described step S47in a step S87.

In a succeeding step S89, the CPU40detects an elapsed time T2from the start of the movement of the instruction panel400at the second step to the notification with the motion completion sound, that is, detects the elapsed time T2from when the instruction of the motion at the second step is given to when it is determined the motion is performed on the basis of the value of the time counter of the memory area520, and stores the same in the memory area526.

Then, in a step S91, the CPU40determines whether or not the elapsed time T2is equal to or more than Tp0and equal to or less than Tp1, and whether or not the determination result at the first step is perfect. In this embodiment, in order to obtain the perfect judgment at the second step, the perfect judgment is required to be obtained at the first step as well as the timing when the motion at the second step is performed is within the perfect judgment area. More specifically, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time T2falls in the perfect judgment area. In addition, with reference to the evaluation data as to the first step stored in the game result memory area534, it is determined whether the data indicating the perfect judgment or not.

If “YES” in the step S91, that is, if the perfect judgment is performed as to the second step, the CPU40executes perfect success processing similar to the above-described step S53in a step S93. Here, since the motion judgment is as to the second step, the evaluation data indicating the perfect judgment as to the motion at the second step is stored in the game result memory area534.

On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S91, the CPU40executes OK success processing similar to the above-described step S55in a step S95. Here, since the motion judgment is as to the second step, the evaluation data indicating the OK judgment as to the motion at the second step is stored in the game result memory area534.

After completion of the step S85, the step S93or the step S95, the second step processing is ended, and the process proceeds to the third step processing in the step S11.

FIG. 19shows one example of an operation of the CPU40of the third step processing in the step S11. The third step in the step-up-and-down exercise is a motion of putting the right foot down from the load controller36from a state that both of the feet are put on the load controller36as shown inFIG. 11(C).

Additionally, the third step processing is executed after the predetermined time TA elapses from the start of the movement of the previous instruction panel400similar to the above-described second step processing.

When the third step processing is started, in a step S111, the CPU40starts movement processing of the instruction panels400. The movement processing of the panels400is similar to that in the above-described step S31. Here, the panel400for instructing the motion at the third step is the panel400cshown inFIG. 12.

The processing in succeeding steps S113-S123is executed at a set intervals of times (one frame) until it is determined that a motion at the third step is performed on the basis of the load value in the step S121, or it is determined that the motion at the third step is not performed within the time limit in the step S123.

In the step S113, the CPU40executes time counting processing similar to the above-described step S33. Furthermore, in the step S115, the CPU40executes load value fetching processing similar to the above-described step S35.

Then, in the step S117, the CPU40determines whether or not the load value is 25 to 75% of the body weight value similar to the above-described step S37. A judgment condition of a ratio of the load value to the body weight value with respect to the third step is set to 25 to 75% in advance. The motion at the third step is a motion of putting the right foot down from the load controller36from a state that both of the feet are put on the load controller36. When the motion at the third step is completed, the right foot is put on the ground, so that the load of the left foot is only put on the load controller36. Accordingly, if the sum of the detected loads is 25 to 75% of the body weight value, it can be determined that the right foot is put down from the load controller36. Here, similar to the motion at the first step, by the motion at the third step, one foot is put on the load controller36in a state that the other foot is put on the ground, the condition of the ratio of the load value at the third step is the same as that in the above-described first step.

If “YES” in the step S117, the CPU40calculates a position of the center of gravity similar to the above-described step S39in the step S119. Then, in the step S121, the CPU40determines whether or not the position of the center of gravity falls in the range of −1 to −0.01 as the judgment condition of the third step. By the motion at the third step, the right foot is put down from the load controller36, and only the left foot remains on the load controller36, so that the position of the center of gravity appears on the left side of the load controller36when viewed from the player. Accordingly, if the calculated position of the center of gravity falls in the range of −1 to −0.01, it can be determined that the motion at the third step is completed, and the right foot is put down.

If “NO” in the step S121, or if “NO” in the step S117, it can be determined that the motion at the third step is not performed. In these cases, the CPU40determines whether or not the predetermined time TA elapses from the start of the movement of the panel similar to the above-described step S43in the step S123. If “NO” in the step S123, the process returns to the step S113.

On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S123, that is, if the time limit expires without execution of the motion at the third step being determined, the CPU40executes failure processing similar to the above-described step S45in a step S125. Here, since the motion judgment is as to the third step, the evaluation data indicating a failure judgment as to the motion at the third step is stored in the game result memory area534.

Furthermore, if “YES” in the step S121, that is, if it is determined the motion at the third step is performed, the CPU40notifies this with a motion completion sound similar to the above-described step S47in a step S127.

In a succeeding step S129, the CPU40detects an elapsed time T3from the start of the movement of the instruction panel400at the third step to the notification with the motion completion sound, that is, detects the elapsed time T3from when the instruction of the motion at the third step is given to when it is determined that the motion is performed on the basis of the value of the time counter of the memory area520, and stores the same in the memory area526. The judgment timing of the motion at the third step is utilized as a judgment timing of a motion at the fourth step.

Then, in a step S131, the CPU40determines whether or not the elapsed time T3is equal to or more than Tp0and equal to or less than Tp1, and whether or not the determination result at the first step is perfect similar to the above-described step S91. In this embodiment, in order to obtain the perfect judgment at the third step, it is necessary that the timing when the motion at the third step is performed is within the perfect judgment area, and the perfect judgment is obtained at the first step.

If “YES” in the step S131, that is, if the perfect judgment is performed with respect to the motion at the third step, the CPU40executes perfect success processing similar to the above-described step S53in a step S133. Here, since the motion judgment is as to the third step, the evaluation data indicating the perfect judgment as to the motion at the third step is stored in the game result memory area534.

On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S131, the CPU40executes OK success processing similar to the above-described step S55in a step S135. Here, since the motion judgment is as to the third step, the evaluation data indicating the OK judgment as to the motion at the third step is stored in the game result memory area534.

After completion of the step S125, the step S133or the step S135, the third step processing is ended, and the process proceeds to the fourth step processing in the step S13.

FIG. 20shows one example of an operation of the CPU40in the fourth step processing in the step S13. The fourth step of the step-up-and-down exercise is a motion of putting the left foot down from the load controller36as shown inFIG. 11(D)to thereby bring about the state that both of the feet are put down on the ground.

Additionally, the fourth step processing is executed after the predetermined time TA elapses from the start of the movement of the previous instruction panel400similar to the above-described second step processing and third step processing.

When the fourth step processing is started, the CPU40starts movement processing of the instruction panels400in a step S151. The movement processing of the panels400is similar to that in the above-described step S31. Here, the panel400for instructing the motion at the fourth step is the panel400dshown inFIG. 12.

The processing in succeeding steps S153-S167is executed at a set intervals of times (one frame) until it is determined that a motion at the fourth step is performed on the basis of the load value in the step S165, or it is determined that the motion at the fourth step is not performed within the time limit in the step S167.

In the step S153, the CPU40executes time counting processing similar to the above-described step S33. Then, in the step S155, the CPU40detects an elapsed time T4from the start of the movement of the instruction panel400at the fourth step on the basis of the value of the time counter in the memory area520and stores the same in the memory area526. The judgment timing of the motion at the fourth step is decided on the basis of the elapsed time T4described above.

In the succeeding step S157, the CPU40determines whether or not the elapsed time T3is detected with reference to the memory area526. If “YES” in the step S157, that is, if it is determined that the motion at the third step is performed, the judgment timing of the motion at the third step is utilized as a judgment timing of a motion at the fourth step inFIG. 14described above. Accordingly, in the step S159, the CPU40determines whether or not the elapsed time T4is equal to or more than the elapsed time T3, that is, whether or not the elapsed time T4becomes the judgment timing of the motion.

On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S157, that is, if it is not determined that the motion at the third step is performed, it is impossible to determine the judgment timing of the motion at the fourth step on the basis of the judgment timing of the motion at the third step. Thus, as described above, by utilizing the panel stopping time PS set to be timing suitable for the motion of stepping up and down, it is determined whether or not the judgment timing of the motion at the fourth step has come. That is, in the step S161, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time T4is equal to or more than the panel stopping time PS. If “NO” in the step S161, since the judgment timing of the motion at the fourth step has not come, the process returns to the step S153.

Furthermore, if “YES” in the step S159or if “YES” in the step S161, that is, if the judgment timing of the motion at the fourth step has come, the CPU40executes load value fetching processing similar to the above-described step S35in the step S163.

Then, in the step S165, the CPU40determines whether or not the load value is equal to or less than 5% of the body weight value similar to the above-described step S37. A judgment condition of a ratio of the load value to the body weight value with respect to the fourth step is set to be equal to or less than 5% in advance. The motion at the fourth step is a motion of putting the left foot down from the load controller36. When the motion at the fourth step is completed, both of the feet are put on the ground, so that the load put on the load controller36is substantially zero. Thus, when it is determined that the judgment timing of the motion at the fourth step has come on the basis of the elapsed time, if the sum of the detected loads is equal to or less than 5% of the body weight value, it can be determined that the left foot is put down from the load controller36.

Here, since the motion at the fourth step is performed to bring about a state that the feet of the player is not put on the load controller36, in the judgment of the motion at the fourth step, only the condition of the ratio of the load value to the body weight value is taken into account without seeing position of the center of gravity.

On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S165, it can be determined that the motion at the fourth step is not performed. Furthermore, if “NO” in the step S159, since the elapsed time T4has not reached the judgment timing of the motion, the motion judgment on the basis of the load value is not performed. In these cases, the CPU40determines whether or not the predetermined time TA elapses from the start of the movement of the panel similar to the above-described step S43in the step S167. That is, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time T4is equal to or more than the predetermined time TA. If “NO” in the step S167, that is, if the elapsed time T4is within the time limit of the motion at the fourth step, the process returns to the step S153.

On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S167, that is, if the time limit expires without execution of the motion at the fourth step being determined, the CPU40executes failure processing similar to the above-described step S45in a step S169. Here, since the motion judgment is as to the fourth step, the evaluation data indicating the failure judgment as to the motion at the fourth step is stored in the game result memory area534.

Furthermore, if “YES” in the step S165, that is, if it is determined that the motion at the fourth step is performed, the CPU40notifies this with a motion completion sound similar to the above-described step S47in a step S171.

In a succeeding step S173, the CPU40determines whether or not the determination result at the third step is perfect on the basis of the evaluation data at the third step in the game result memory area534. Here, in this embodiment, in order to obtain the perfect judgment at the fourth step, it is necessary to obtain the perfect judgment at the third step. Since whether or not the judgment timing of the motion at the fourth step is decided on the basis of the judgment timing of the motion at the third step or the panel stopping time PS, it is not determined whether or not the timing when the motion at the fourth step is performed is within the perfect judgment area.

If “YES” in the step S173, that is, if the perfect judgment is performed as to the motion at the fourth step, the CPU40executes perfect success processing similar to the above-described step S53in a step S175. Here, since the motion judgment is as to the fourth step, the evaluation data indicating the perfect judgment as to the motion at the fourth step is stored in the game result memory area534.

On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S173, the CPU40executes OK success processing similar to the above-described step S55in a step S177. Here, since the motion judgment is as to the fourth step, the evaluation data indicating the OK judgment as to the motion at the fourth step is stored in the game result memory area534.

After completion of the step S169, the step S175or the step S177, the fourth step processing is ended, and the process proceeds to the step S15inFIG. 16.

According to this embodiment, since the judgment timing of the motion at the fourth step of putting the left foot down from the load controller36to bring about a state that both of the feet are not put on is decided on the basis of the elapsed time from when the instruction of the motion at the fourth step is given, it is possible to suitably decide the judgment timing of the motion by the player, and thus determine whether or not the motion is performed.

Furthermore, the judgment timing of the motion at the fourth step is judged on the basis of the judgment timing of the motion at the third step of only putting one foot down from the load controller36from a state that both of the feet are put thereon, it is possible to make a proper judgment with the simple processing.

In addition, in a case that it is not determined whether or not the motion at the third step is performed, the judgment timing of the motion at the fourth step is decided on the basis of the panel stopping time PS suitably set for the motion, it is possible to perform an appropriate judgment on the basis of the suitable time set in advance.

Additionally, in the above-described embodiment, since a motion at the fourth step is a motion of putting both of the feet down from the controller, the fact that the load values detected at the judgment timing at the fourth step are approximately zero is a condition for deciding that the fourth step is successful. However, in another embodiment, whether or not a load is put on even once during the judgment of the first to third steps may be decided as a condition for a success of the fourth step.FIG. 21shows one example of an operation of the fourth step processing in this case. Additionally,FIG. 21is a modification obtained by modifying a part of the operation shown inFIG. 20, and is the same asFIG. 20except that processing in a step S201is added between the step S165and the step S171. Furthermore, inFIG. 21, the processing of the steps S173-S177(seeFIG. 20) to be executed after the step S171is omitted.

If “YES” in the step S165inFIG. 21, that is, if the condition of the load value at the fourth step is satisfied, the CPU40determines whether or not a load is put on even once during the judgment of the first to third steps in the step S201. More specifically, it is determined whether or not “YES” is determined in the step S37of the first step processing inFIG. 17, whether or not “YES” is determined in the step S77of the second step processing inFIG. 18, or whether or not “YES” is determined in the step S117of the third step processing inFIG. 19. If “YES” in the step S201, it is understood that the player rides on the load controller36at least once during the judgments at the first to third steps irrespective of whether or not each of the motions at the first to third steps is successful, and the player puts both of the feet down from the load controller36at the judgment timing of the fourth step. Accordingly, in this embodiment, if “YES” in the step S201, it is regarded that the motion at the fourth step of putting both of the feet down is successful, and the process proceeds to the step S171.

On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S201, it is regarded that the player does not ride on the load controller36during the judgment of the first to third step, and the motion at the fourth step is unsuccessful, and the process proceeds to the step S169.

According to the embodiment inFIG. 21, it is possible to give a score if the player makes at least a motion of riding on and down the load controller36, and it is possible to prevent a score from being given even though the player has never ridden on the load controller36.

Furthermore, in each of the above-described embodiments, the judgment timing of a motion at the fourth step is decided on the basis of the judgment timing (elapsed time T3) of a motion at the third step. However, in another embodiment, an average value of the judgment timings (T1, T2and T3) of the respective motions from the first to third steps, and the judgment timing of the motion at the fourth step may be decided on the basis of the average value. Or, the judgment timings (T3) at the third step detected in the past, that is, the histories of the judgment timing T3at the third step are stored, and the judgment timing of the motion at the fourth step may be decided on the basis of the average value of the judgment timings at the third step in the past. If so, it is possible to accurately decide the judgment timing at the fourth step. In addition, it is possible to solve the problem that the judgment timing at the fourth step cannot be accurately judged if it is not determined that a motion at the third step directly before is performed.

Furthermore, in each of the above-described embodiments, a motion of the step-up-and-down exercise is determined, but a motion instructed to the player can arbitrarily be changed. For example, as shown inFIG. 22, a thigh lifting motion may be incorporated. As shown inFIG. 22(A), a motion of riding on the load controller36only with the right foot with the left thigh lifted without the left foot not being touched with the load controller36at the second step may be instructed. In this case, as shown inFIG. 22(B), a motion at the third step is a motion of putting the left foot lifted at the second step down on the ground.

FIG. 23shows one example of the panel400to be displayed on the screen in a case that the motion of lifting a thigh is incorporated. As described above, since the motion of the normal step-up-and-down exercise is shown by means of red, the motion in relation to lifting the thigh is shown by means of a different color, such as green, for example. More specifically, a panel400bat the second step is for instructing to raise the left thigh, and the color of the left foot print is shown by green, for example. In addition, in order to show that the foot is completely lifted, the left foot print is shaded. Furthermore, a panel400cat the third step is for instructing a motion of putting the lifted left thigh down, and a green down arrow is drawn on the left foot print, for example. Additionally, a panel400aat the first step is the same as the panel400aat the first step of the normal step-up-and-down exercise shown inFIG. 12, is for instructing a motion of putting the right foot on, and the right foot print is shown by red. Furthermore, a panel400dat the fourth step is for instructing to put the right foot down, and a red down arrows is drawn on the right foot print.

At a judgment of the motion at the second step, in the step S77of the second step processing shown inFIG. 18, it is determined whether or not the load value is equal to or more than 100% of the body weight value, and in the step S81, it is determined whether or not a position of the center of gravity falls in the range of −0.3 to +1.0. When a motion of lifting a thigh is performed, a pivot foot is depressed, so that a load above the body weight value is put on. Accordingly, the fact that a load value larger than that when both feet are merely put on the load controller36, that is, larger than the body weight value is detected is set as a judgment condition. Furthermore, since the instruction of the motion at the third step brings about the state that the right foot is put on the load controller36, and the left foot is put on the ground, the judgment condition with respect to the motion at the third step may be set the same as that of the motion at the first step.