Web-Integrated Digital Display Smart Board Game Table and AI Board Game Management Platform

Abstract

The present invention relates to a web-linked smart board game table and an AI game platform. It consists of a digital display, a protective plate, an adjustable frame, and an embedded mini PC, and supports the progress of a board game by linking with an AI game platform. Utilizing a small language model AI, it provides rule explanations, strategic advice, and real-time Q&A, and assists with player matching, score calculation, and game status monitoring. It enhances immersion with digital content such as theme background music, interactive scoreboards, and game guides, and reflects the latest game rules and strategy information in real-time through cloud updates, maximizing player convenience and the board game experience.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a smart system in the field of board games using digital content that utilizes AI based on a web-linked smart table to enhance the immersion and user experience of board games. Background Technology

[0002] Board games provided in existing board game cafes are operated using an analog method, where rule explanations for each game are typically provided either in person by staff or replaced with videos on tablets. However, while explanations via tablet can save manpower, they present a problem where players find it difficult to fully understand the game rules. This has led to inefficiencies, such as games not progressing smoothly due to misunderstanding the rules or staff having to provide additional explanations. To resolve this, it is necessary to reduce confusion during the rule-learning process by utilizing interactive AI that is familiar with the rules, allowing players to ask questions in real-time and enhance their understanding.

[0003] Furthermore, the lack of digital content (background music, interactive game guides, real-time scoreboards, etc.) capable of enhancing immersion during gameplay limited the creation of an environment where players could become more immersed. Therefore, it is necessary to provide background music and graphic elements optimized for each game and to maintain the continuity of gameplay through real-time score management functions.

[0004] In existing board game cafes, the inability to share real-time information on the status of games in progress at other tables or recruitment times frequently resulted in difficulties playing desired games when there were insufficient players. In particular, users who felt uncomfortable joining a table with strangers often found themselves unable to play their preferred games due to poor matchmaking. To address this issue, it is necessary to utilize a technical system to share recruitment status in real-time and support the natural progression of games with new players by matching suitable partners through automated recommendations. The problem to be solved

[0005] The present invention aims to solve the problems of operational inefficiency and low user immersion in existing analog-centric board game environments by integrating a web-based smart table and a digital content platform to provide a more efficient and immersive board game environment. means of solving the problem

[0006] As a smart board game table,

[0007] A digital display top (TV) horizontally embedded in the center of the table,

[0008] A frame in the form of an aluminum profile or steel angle that firmly supports the corners of the digital display and allows for height adjustment,

[0009] A transparent protective plate made of polycarbonate or tempered glass with a thickness of 6T or less to protect the digital display surface and provide a game play space, and a wooden corner guide for fixing the same,

[0010] It includes a small mini PC that is attached to the back of a digital display and connected via an HDMI cable to provide and control content remotely via the web.

[0011] The above-mentioned small mini PC is equipped with a Windows or Linux OS and supports WIFI and Bluetooth to run digital content through a web browser, and users can input and control content through an industrial ball mouse pad or mouse keyboard.

[0012] The AI ​​game platform is implemented on a web basis (Next.js, Express.js, WebSocket, etc.) and includes features such as providing auxiliary screens and music content to enhance game immersion in real time, sharing the game progress status of other tables, a player matching function, providing videos explaining game rules, a function for ordering drinks and games, assisting with game score recording and calculation, and supporting social and proprietary sign-up systems and nicknames.

[0013] To overcome the limitations of existing static text and video-based rule explanation methods, a miniaturized conversational AI is applied to enable players to familiarize themselves with the game rules and engage in real-time Q&A via voice or text input. This reduces errors caused by misunderstanding the rules during gameplay and allows players to maintain immersion by receiving necessary information immediately. The AI ​​learns frequently asked questions during gameplay to provide more natural and intuitive guidance, and through continuous updates, it is designed to offer the latest game rules and strategic assistance. Effects of the invention

[0014] By introducing this system, the process of playing board games is digitized, which can significantly reduce labor costs and increase operational efficiency. Since store operators do not have to personally handle explaining game rules or recruiting players, they can manage more board games simultaneously or focus on tasks such as taking beverage orders or monitoring table status.

[0015] Users can intuitively view rule videos or game guides on the screen, allowing them to quickly familiarize themselves with complex rules and focus on playing. Additionally, the real-time matching feature simplifies the game selection process by enabling users to instantly check table status and easily join their desired games.

[0016] By utilizing Small Language Model AI (SLM), users can ask questions in real-time during gameplay and receive immediate feedback. While traditional rulebooks and video guides were limited by their static nature and inability to respond immediately to individual user inquiries, SLM AI can provide the rule explanations players desire in a conversational manner. Furthermore, as the AI ​​provides appropriate answers based on board game rules, gameplay becomes smoother and player immersion is enhanced.

[0017] Furthermore, SLM AI can also perform the function of providing strategic advice. In specific board games, the AI ​​can suggest the optimal strategy based on learned data in response to strategic questions. This supports novice players in quickly learning the game and enables experienced players to experience deeper gameplay.

[0018] A transparent protective plate shields the top of the display, reducing maintenance costs, while allowing players to freely place physical cards or pieces to play, preserving the feel of traditional analog board games. Furthermore, AI-powered score calculation and play record saving functions enhance game immersion and enable objective data-based analysis for store management.

[0019] New games or additional content can be automatically distributed via the web, allowing store operators to flexibly introduce new board games or event promotions without the need for separate equipment upgrades. This ensures the store environment remains continuously active rather than stagnant, while users can enjoy an enhanced entertainment experience through board games integrated with various digital aids.

[0020] Through a game environment integrated with SLM AI, board game play can evolve beyond simple entertainment to maximize learning and immersion; in particular, it offers the advantage of serving as an easy and intuitive guide for beginners while providing in-depth strategic analysis capabilities for experienced players. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0021] The present disclosure can be easily understood from the combination of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, whereby the reference numbers in each drawing denote structural components. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the concept of an overall system in which a web-linked smart board game table and an AI game platform of the present invention are interconnected through a network according to one embodiment. This system provides functions such as real-time game status monitoring, player matching, rule explanation, and score calculation, and supports question-and-answer and strategy advice during the board game by applying a small language model AI (SLM AI). FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the internal structure and arrangement of key components (display, frame, protective plate, mini PC, etc.) of a smart display board game table according to one embodiment. The mini PC is connected to an AI game platform to load game content and utilizes SLM AI to provide explanations of board game rules and Q&A during gameplay. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the main functions (user login / account management, real-time communication, data management, and AI functions) and game progression flow of a web-linked AI game platform according to one embodiment. This platform automates the explanation of game rules through SLM AI, and when a player asks a question in real time, the AI ​​provides an answer, thereby increasing the immersion of the board game progression. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0022] Referring to FIG. 1, the entire system is configured such that a smart display board game table (100) and an AI-supported board game operating platform (200) are connected via a network.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 2, the smart display board game table (100) has a built-in digital display (110) (43-inch or 55-inch size) horizontally mounted in the center of the table, and the display (110) is firmly supported by a custom adjustable frame (130) (aluminum profile or steel angle).

[0024] The frame (130) is equipped with a height adjustment function and a structure for attaching peripheral accessories such as a cup holder, mouse, and keyboard holder, and a transparent reinforced protective plate (120) (polycarbonate or reinforced glass) is installed on the upper part of the display (110) to prevent impact and contamination and to serve as a physical top plate.

[0025] An embedded mini PC (140) is located at the bottom of the table and is connected to a display (110) via an HDMI cable, and can transmit and receive real-time data with a server via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The user operates the mini PC (140) using an industrial ball mousepad or a mouse and keyboard, and can play voice and music content through a speaker connected to the display (110).

[0026] Referring to FIG. 3, the AI-assisted board game operation platform (200) is composed of key modules such as user account and login management (210), data management (220), main dashboard (230), real-time two-way communication (240), and small language model AI (250).

[0027] In user account and login management (210), users set a nickname and log in through a social account or a self-sign-up method, and access rights are applied differently depending on the account type.

[0028] In data management (220), user, table, and game-related data are stored in a DB, and AI algorithms are applied to perform game recommendations, rule explanation automation, score calculation, etc. Additionally, software automatic updates are performed depending on the AWS or local server environment, allowing new game content to be reflected quickly.

[0029] Through the table matching (231) function within the main dashboard (230), the status of tables, such as vacant, recruiting, and in progress, is monitored in real time, and the status is automatically changed when the number of participants is met through application for participation. In the game guide (232), the game list, search, rule explanation video, and difficulty and time information can be checked, and background images, videos, and music can be set through the game aid tool (233) to increase immersion.

[0030] Through the process of real-time bidirectional communication (240), table status synchronization (241) and event processing (242), table updates, participation requests, and status change notifications are transmitted immediately, allowing multiple users to share the same game information.

[0031] The small language model AI (250) plays the role of responding in real time to user inquiries during the board game. The AI ​​is based on lightweight language models such as Alpaca and LLaMA and provides answers to user questions in natural language after being trained in the game rulebook in advance. In addition, the AI ​​can provide strategic advice tailored to the specific game progression method, and can provide more immediate and fluid game support than existing static rulebooks or video guides.

[0032] On the side of the table (100), the platform (200) is accessed via an embedded mini PC (140) to display a UI, and the user can set the number of participants and explore game content through a modal window using a display (110) or a personal tablet or smartphone.

[0033] When the number of participants is met, the table status switches from "Recruiting" to "Playing," and the game can be played using rule explanation videos, AI-based Q&A, and score calculation assistance functions. Additionally, the user can order drinks and reserve additional games, at which time the platform (200) updates the table status in real time and saves score records and order history.

[0034] The transparent reinforced protective plate (120) on the top of the display (110) prevents board game pieces and cards from slipping and protects the display, making it easy to maintain during long-term use.

[0035] When the OS on the mini PC (140) is updated or the software on the server (200) is improved, it can be immediately reflected through an automatic distribution method via the web, allowing for the smooth addition of new game content.

[0036] Through this configuration and operation method, board game store operators can reduce labor costs and manage table status in real time, and users can enjoy immersive board games in a digital multimedia environment. In particular, with the introduction of a small language model AI (250), users can immediately learn the game rules without having to look up the rulebook themselves, and can enjoy a more intuitive and smooth game experience. Explanation of the symbols

[0037] 100 : Smart Display Board Game Table 110: Built-in digital display 120 : Transparent reinforced protective plate 130 : Custom adjustable frame 140 : Embedded Mini PC 200 : AI-supported board game operation platform 210: User Account and Login Management 220 : Data Management 230 : Main Dashboard 231 : Table Matching 232 : Game Guide 233 : Provides game aids 240 : Real-time bidirectional communication 241 : Table State Synchronization 242 : Event handling 250: Small Language Model AI

Claims

Claim 1 A method for constructing a board game display table comprises: a step of horizontally arranging a digital display to display a board game interface and multimedia content; a step of securing a physical space for placing board game pieces and cards by placing a transparent protective plate made of polycarbonate or tempered glass on the top to protect the digital display; a step of supporting the display and the protective plate using a custom adjustable frame made of an aluminum profile or steel angle, and configuring the table height to be adjustable and peripheral accessories (cup holder, keyboard stand, etc.) to be detachable; a step of installing an embedded mini PC connected by an HDMI cable and configuring the mini PC to communicate with an external server via a wireless network (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.) to transmit and receive board game content and multimedia data; and a step of running a web browser on the mini PC to display the board game progress status and multimedia content on the display in real time; wherein the method is characterized by constructing a digital display-based board game table through the above steps. Claim 2 A method for configuring a smart board game table according to claim 1, further comprising the step of the mini PC running a Windows or Linux-based operating system or executing a dedicated application (app) to load multimedia content, such as a board game rule explanation video, background image, and background music, in real time and output it to the display. Claim 3 A method for configuring a smart board game table according to claim 1, further comprising the step of forming a slot or bracket for attaching and detaching a table peripheral accessory to the custom adjustment frame, thereby enabling easy mounting of peripheral devices such as a cup holder, keyboard stand, or additional monitor. Claim 4 A method for providing an AI-based board game operation platform, comprising: a step of supporting social login (individual user) or store tablet / smartphone accounts through user account and login management, and granting permissions according to the type of logged-in account; a step of monitoring table status in real time to provide game recruitment functions including setting the number of players, applying for participation, and accepting participation, and displaying rule explanation videos, game reviews, background images, etc. of a selected game; a step of automatically synchronizing table status (vacant, recruiting, in play, etc.) using real-time bidirectional communication (WebSocket, etc.) and immediately processing participation requests and status change notifications; a step of storing and loading user, table, and game information through a database, applying an artificial intelligence algorithm to assist functions such as game rule guidance and score calculation, and automatically distributing updates in a cloud or local server environment; and a method for providing a board game operation platform characterized by building and operating an AI-based web platform through the above steps. Claim 5 A method for providing a board game operation platform according to claim 4, further comprising a step of distinguishing between a tablet account for the store and a smartphone account for the administrator in the user account management step, and granting differential permissions such as table setting, game selection, and store operation functions. Claim 6 A method for providing a board game operation platform according to claim 4 or claim 5, further comprising the step of implementing a platform linked to allow a user to order a beverage or additional game product through a table display during the board game, so that order details are recorded in real-time on a server and displayed on a store manager terminal. Claim 7 A method for operating a web-linked smart board game system, comprising: a step of connecting a display board game table described in any one of claims 1 to 3 to a network to display a board game UI, rule description, background music, etc. in real time through an embedded mini PC; and a step of automating table status monitoring, game recruitment, score calculation, etc., and synchronizing game progress information in real time using an AI-based board game operating platform described in any one of claims 4 to 6; wherein the hardware (table) and software (operating platform) are linked to digitize and automate the entire process of playing a board game. Claim 8 A method of operating a web-linked smart board game system according to claim 7, further comprising the step of allowing a user to input feedback information evaluating satisfaction, difficulty, play time, etc., after the game ends, recording this in a database within a server, and simultaneously reflecting it in future game recommendations and matching through an artificial intelligence algorithm. Claim 9 A method of operating a web-linked smart board game system according to any one of claims 4 to 8, further comprising the step of a server equipped with a Small Language Model (SLM) learning a board game rulebook and responding in real-time in text or voice form to inquiries regarding rules or strategy advice that occur during play, wherein the SLM analyzes user input to guide the correct interpretation of rules and whether progress is possible, thereby enhancing the player's understanding and immersion. Claim 10 A method of operating a web-linked smart board game system according to claim 9, further comprising the step of lightweighting and optimizing the small language model so that it can operate in an internal store network or online environment, and providing a question-and-answer service, while continuously learning user question patterns and feedback information to provide faster and more accurate answers to frequently asked questions (FAQ) and popular game rules.

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