Accessory for a game console controller

Abstract

An accessory for electronic gaming that can receive part of a game console controller. The accessory has one or more actuators for operating one or more press buttons of the controller.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to the field of electronic games and more particularly to an accessory for a game console controller.[0002]It will be convenient to hereinafter describe the invention in relation to games that require a small ball, such as baseball, however it should be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to that use only.BACKGROUND ART[0003]The discussion throughout this specification comes about due to the realisation of the inventor and / or the identification of certain related art problems by the inventor and, moreover, any discussion of documents, devices, acts or knowledge in this specification is included to explain the context of the invention. It should not be taken as an admission that any of the material forms a part of the prior art base or the common general knowledge in the relevant art in Australia or elsewhere on or before the priority date of the disclosure and claims herein.[0004]While the present invention will...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0011]An object of the present invention is to provide an accessory that incorporates a game controller to improve the user gaming experience.

[0017]The diametric slot allows part of the controller to be inserted in the housing and positioned such that the actuators on the housing can operate the push buttons on the controller. The interior surface (or surfaces) of the housing that defines the diametric slot may include gripping means, such as foam pads, to help retain the housing on the controller and stop them sliding apart if used during a particularly active electronic game. Alternatively or in addition, the interior surface (or surfaces) may include a partial lining of soft material such as rubber, or some other protection to avoid scratching or damage to the controller.

[0019]The actuators are preferably manually operated devices such as press rod assemblies. Typically the actuator comprises buttons on the outer surface of the accessory that can be manually pressed by the user to operate the push buttons of the controller. Optimally the actuator buttons correspond in both function and position to the push buttons on the controller so that the user does not have to re-learn or change the way they issue instructions via the controller to the console. Hence the user can hold the ‘ball’ shaped housing in one hand, using their fingers to press the actuator buttons on the end of the press rod assemblies to operate the push buttons without losing their functions.

[0022]In essence, embodiments of the present invention stem from the realization that the controller does not have to be completely enclosed within the accessory to provide a realistic user experience. For example, the controller may be partially enveloped by the accessory. This opens up the opportunity for game users to have the feel of a smaller sized sporting ball within their hand, such as a cricket ball, baseball or tennis ball.

[0025]A wider range of games that can be the subject of enhanced gaming experience; and

Problems solved by technology

Development of motion detection controllers has led to significant advances and greater complexity in electronic gaming.

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