Game system

Abstract

A game system comprising: a data processing system configured to execute program instructions that allow a user to participate in a digital game; a physical toy; and a detection device configured to detect the presence of the toy within a detection region of the detection device; wherein the toy comprises two or more identification elements that are detectable by the detection device when each identification element is positioned within the detection region, wherein the toy is configured to allow a user to selectively position the toy with a user-selected subset of one or more of the identification elements within the detection region; and wherein the data processing system is configured to control the digital game in response to the detected subset of identification elements.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on April 7, 2016, with application number 201680033735.1 and title "Game System". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to game systems. Background Technology

[0003] Game systems, and especially those in which users interact with virtual characters in a virtual environment, have become increasingly popular among both children and adults. Various such game systems exist that can be executed by data processing systems such as game consoles, handheld gaming devices, desktop computers, portable computers, tablets, or mobile phones. The general expectation is that such systems will become increasingly fun, entertaining, and / or educational.

[0004] Several attempts have been made to control virtual games using physical toys. For example, UK patent application GB2365796 discloses a game system that includes a toy storing toy information, a reader for detecting the toy information via a contactless data transmission system, and a game device. The game device executes a game in which a character representing the toy appears based on the toy information detected by the reader.

[0005] In many game systems, various virtual objects become usable by the player during gameplay (e.g., when a virtual object evolves into a more advanced object, when the player acquires virtual equipment, etc.). Therefore, it is desirable to represent different virtual objects using corresponding physical objects during gameplay. It is also desirable to provide users with additional control options for manipulating gameplay. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to the first aspect, this document discloses embodiments of a game system, including:

[0007] - A data processing system configured to execute program instructions that allow users to participate in digital games;

[0008] -Physical toys; and

[0009] - A detection device configured to detect the presence of the toy within the detection area of ​​the detection device;

[0010] The toy includes two or more identification elements, each of which can be detected by a detection device when placed within a detection area. The toy is configured to allow a user to selectively position the toy while a subset of user-selected elements (one or more of the identification elements) is within the detection area. The data processing system is configured to control the digital game in response to a subset of the detected identification elements.

[0011] A subset of the identification elements can be a single identification element or multiple identification elements, but less than the total number of identification elements contained in the physical toy; that is, the subset can be a true subset. The subset can even include all the identification elements contained in the physical toy. The toy is configured such that a user can selectively position the toy such that only a subset of the identification elements is within the detection area of ​​the detection device, while identification elements not belonging to the user-selected subset (if any) are not within the detection area of ​​the detection device. In some embodiments, the physical toy is configured such that the toy can be positioned, at least in one configuration, such that each time a true subset of the identification elements (e.g., only a single identification element) is within the detection area. In some embodiments, the subset of identification elements can be positioned within the same detection area of ​​the detection device. In some embodiments, the detection device includes more than one detection area, and the toy can be configured to allow a user to position the toy such that a subset of the identification elements is within a corresponding detection area of ​​the detection area, i.e., not necessarily within the same detection area.

[0012] The physical toy can be a coherent structure in which two or more identification elements are physically interconnected with the structure, for example, mounted on the structure, integrated into the structure, etc. Some or all of the identification elements can be detachably attached to the structure, for example, so that they can be repeatedly attached to the same and / or different toys and detached from the same and / or different toys, for example, at the same or different locations on the toys. Alternatively or additionally, some or all of the identification elements can be integrated into the structure so that they cannot be removed or detached from the structure.

[0013] In some embodiments, the physical toy is a toy construction model constructed from multiple construction elements such that the construction elements are detachably interconnected to form a coherent structure.

[0014] In some embodiments, the toy structure includes a first portion and a second portion movably interconnected with each other, such as hinged relative to each other, rotatable relative to each other, slidable relative to each other, or otherwise movable. The first portion may include a first identification element of the two or more identification elements, and the second portion may include a second identification element of the two or more identification elements. The second portion may be positioned relative to the first portion in a first position such that when the first identification element is positioned within the detection area of ​​the detection device, the second identification element is not within the detection area of ​​the detection device. The second portion may be positioned relative to the first portion in a second position such that when the first identification element is positioned within the detection area of ​​the detection device, the second identification element is also within the same or different detection area of ​​the detection device. The first and second portions may be positioned relative to each other in corresponding positions such that the identification elements can be selectively positioned within the same or different detection areas. For example, the portions may be moved to adjust the relative distance between the identification elements, for example, moving the portions between a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein the first configuration causes the identification elements to be close to each other and fitted within the same detection area, and the second configuration causes the identification elements to be far from each other and can be simultaneously positioned within corresponding detection areas.

[0015] The identification element may include information related to the identification element and / or the physical toy, such as an identifier that identifies the identification element and / or the physical toy. This information may be stored in memory contained within the identification element. In some embodiments, the identification elements may include the same or different information. In particular, they may include the same identifier indicating the physical toy. Alternatively or additionally, they may include corresponding identifiers different from other corresponding identification elements, such as identifiers indicating the corresponding identification elements, such as unique identifiers of the identification elements, which allow the detection device to distinguish the identification elements contained in the toy. Therefore, the reader may be configured to determine which one or more identification elements of the toy are currently within the detection area of ​​the detection device.

[0016] In some embodiments, the detection device includes at least two detection areas, and is configured to detect the presence of an identification element in each detection area and to detect which detection area the identification element is placed in. The physical toy may be configured such that the identification element can be selectively positioned in a single detection area and / or in a corresponding detection area within the detection area; and the detection device may be configured to determine whether the physical toy is configured such that one, two, or more identification elements are in the corresponding detection areas, or that the identification elements are placed in the corresponding detection areas. The data processing system may thus be configured to control the digital game in response to a subset of detected identification elements, and optionally in response to whether the detected subset is in the same detection area or whether the corresponding identification elements of the detected subset are detected in different detection areas.

[0017] Typically, control over a digital game based on a detected subset may include providing access to digital content associated with the detected subset, controlling the behavior of digital characters or digital items in response to the detected subset, modifying how user-controllable digital characters react to user input, and / or combinations thereof.

[0018] This disclosure relates to various aspects, including game systems according to the first aspect described above, as well as other game systems according to the other aspects described below, and corresponding devices, systems, methods, and / or products. Each aspect can produce one or more of the benefits and advantages described in conjunction with the first or other aspects, and each aspect has one or more embodiments corresponding to the embodiments disclosed in conjunction with one of the other aspects and / or the appended claims.

[0019] Specifically, according to the second aspect, this document discloses embodiments of a game system, including:

[0020] - A data processing system configured to execute program instructions that allow users to participate in digital games;

[0021] -Physical toys; and

[0022] - A detection device configured to detect the presence of a toy within the detection area of ​​the detection device;

[0023] The physical toy is configured to send information to the detection device when it is positioned within the detection area of ​​the detection device; the physical toy includes a sensor configured to detect input, and the physical toy is configured to change the sent information in response to the detected input; and the data processing system is configured to receive a detection signal from the detection device indicating the information sent by the physical toy, and to control the digital game in response to the received detection signal.

[0024] Sensors can be user-controllable inputs, such as user-controllable actuators like push buttons, pull buttons, rotary actuators, linear switches, terminal connectors, accelerometers, and so on. Alternatively, sensors can be sensors that detect environmental conditions, such as light sensors, acoustic sensors, transducers, thermometers, proximity sensors, vibration / shaking sensors, rotation sensors, pressure sensors, force sensors, gyroscope sensors, GPS devices, magnetic field sensors, infrared sensors, radio frequency signal sensors, and so on.

[0025] The transmitted information can vary in various ways: for example, as described in conjunction with the first aspect, the physical toy may include one or more identification elements that can selectively enter the detection area of ​​the detection device when the physical toy is placed at a predetermined proximity of the detection device (e.g., placed on the contact surface of the detection device). Alternatively or additionally, the one or more identification elements or portions thereof may be selectively disabled and activated, for example by selectively connecting / disconnecting the identification elements or portions thereof from a power supply and / or communication circuitry and / or antenna, etc. Also alternatively or additionally, the physical toy may include one or more identification elements that include a memory for storing information, such as that described in conjunction with the first aspect; thus, the identification elements may be configured to transmit the stored information to the detection device, and the identification elements may be configured to change the stored information in response to input detected by the sensor.

[0026] Physical toys can be coherent structures, such as toy construction models, and optionally have a first part and a second part that are movable relative to each other, for example, as described in conjunction with the first aspect.

[0027] The detection device may include one or more detection areas, for example, as described in conjunction with the first aspect.

[0028] According to the third aspect, this article discloses a game system, including:

[0029] - A data processing system configured to execute program instructions that allow users to participate in digital games;

[0030] - Two or more identification elements; and

[0031] - A detection device, comprising two or more detection areas, and configured to detect the presence of at least one of the identification elements in each of the detection areas of the detection device;

[0032] The data processing system is configured to receive input signals from the detection device indicating the presence of two or more identification elements in corresponding detection areas, and to control the digital game in response to whether the two or more identification elements are detected in the same detection area or in different detection areas.

[0033] The identification element may be contained within the same physical toy or multiple corresponding physical toys. Each physical toy may be a coherent structure, such as a toy construction model, and optionally have a first and second part movable relative to each other, for example, as described in conjunction with the first aspect. For example, when a user places two identification elements (which may be contained within two separate physical toys or a single physical toy) within a single detection area or different detection areas of the detection device, the data processing system may control gameplay in response to whether the identification elements are positioned within the same or different detection areas. For example, if a user places two physical toys (each including an identification element and each resembling a creature) within their respective detection areas, the data processing system may introduce two digital creatures into the digital game. In some embodiments, the two creatures may be introduced into their respective areas or associated with their respective players, or may be independently controlled by the user, and so on. If, on the one hand, the user places the two identical toys in the same detection area, the data processing can control the digital game in different ways, such as introducing a single creature, which is, for example, a larger creature, a more evolved creature, a creature with different abilities, and / or the like, or the data processing system can introduce a pair of creatures that can only be controlled by the user in pairs, or can be controlled to cooperate with each other, and / or the like.

[0034] According to the fourth aspect, this article discloses a game system, including:

[0035] - A data processing system configured to execute program instructions that allow users to participate in digital games;

[0036] - One or more identification elements; and

[0037] - A detection device, comprising two or more detection zones, configured to detect the presence of an identification element in each detection zone of the detection device;

[0038] The digital game includes a digital environment comprising two or more areas; wherein the areas can be explored by a user-controllable character; and wherein a data processing system is configured to control gameplay in the first area of ​​the detection area in response to the detection of an identification element in the first detection area of ​​the detection area, and to control gameplay in the second area of ​​the detection area in response to the detection of an identification element in the second detection area of ​​the detection area.

[0039] A digital environment may include spaces that can include landscapes, structures, buildings, and / or other forms of space in which digital characters (such as user-controllable digital characters) can move. Different zones may be interconnected, allowing digital characters to move from one zone to another. In some embodiments, there may be one or more entrances and / or exits to / from a zone. Entrances to a zone may include structures or objects that mark the entrance, such as gates, doors, stairs, bridges, passageways, and / or the like.

[0040] Therefore, the corresponding detection areas of the detection device can be associated with corresponding areas within these areas. This association can be permanent, or it can change during gameplay, such as in response to user input, game events, etc. For example, when the presence of an identification element is detected in one of the detection areas, the data processing system can cause the digital character or item corresponding to the detected identification element to appear in the area of ​​the digital environment currently associated with the detection area. The identification element can be interconnected with a physical toy, for example, as described in conjunction with one of the foregoing aspects. The identification element can include information, such as information stored in memory, for example, as described in conjunction with one of the other aspects.

[0041] According to the fourth aspect and / or some embodiments of other aspects, the detection device includes two or more detection areas, for example, as described in conjunction with one or more of the foregoing aspects. Each or only some of the detection areas may be associated with a corresponding area of ​​the digital environment, and detection of a corresponding identification element in two detection areas may enable the data processing system to control the digital game to influence both areas, for example, by opening a passage from one area to another, such as a shortcut. The corresponding identification element may be an identification element contained in the same physical toy or in a separate toy element. Identification elements may have a generic identifier associated with them, or they may include different identifiers or other different information, for example, as described in conjunction with one or more of the other aspects disclosed herein.

[0042] Typically, in some embodiments of each aspect described herein, the identification element may be a toy construction element including one or more connectors configured to mechanically connect one or more other toy construction elements to the identification element, thereby allowing a user to construct a toy construction model. Accordingly, a user can alter the visual appearance of the physical toy construction model connected to the identification element by attaching one or more toy construction elements to the identification element. Thus, a user can adjust the visual appearance of the toy construction model to make the virtual object corresponding to a given physical object more easily identifiable by the user.

[0043] Furthermore, the given identification element does not need to have any specific, easily identifiable appearance; instead, it can be set as a generic element that users can easily customize. This reduces the cost of manufacturing the identification element.

[0044] Furthermore, the game system is easy to maintain, for example, when new virtual objects are added, because existing identification elements can be reused.

[0045] The resulting game system implementation further provides interesting gameplay because users are given a high degree of freedom in designing physical objects to be detected by the game system.

[0046] A toy construction element can be a component of a toy construction system comprising one or more interconnectable toy construction elements of different types. A toy construction element can be a component of an existing toy construction system. Therefore, a user can reuse existing toy construction elements to construct physical toys corresponding to virtual objects in a virtual environment. However, a game system may include multiple toy construction elements, each including one or more connectors configured to detachably interconnect the toy construction elements with each other and / or detachably interconnect with the identification element. For example, a toy construction group may include a sufficient number, shape, and size of toy construction elements to allow a user to construct toy construction models similar to one or more virtual objects in the game system.

[0047] In some embodiments of each aspect disclosed herein, one or more of the toy construction elements have a top surface, a bottom surface, and a connector disposed on at least one of the top and bottom surfaces, thereby allowing vertical stacking of the toy construction elements. Alternatively or additionally, the toy construction element may include connectors on one or more of its sides, thereby allowing lateral / horizontal interconnection of the toy construction elements. The toy construction elements may define a uniform height, or an integer multiple of a uniform height, between the top and bottom surfaces.

[0048] Connectors can be configured to allow each structural element to interconnect with another structural element in a predetermined relative orientation relative to a discrete number of structural elements. Therefore, a wide variety of feasible construction options are available while ensuring the interconnectivity of the building elements. Connectors can be positioned at grid points of a regular grid; in particular, connectors for toy building elements can be arranged such that the connectors of a group of interconnected toy building elements are positioned at grid points of a three-dimensional regular grid. The size of the toy building elements can be defined as an integer multiple of the unit length defined by the regular grid. It should be understood that the three-dimensional grid can be defined by a single unit length, by two unit lengths (e.g., one unit length for two spatial dimensions and another unit length for a third spatial dimension), or alternatively, by three unit lengths, one unit length for each spatial dimension.

[0049] Connectors can detachably connect construction elements to other construction elements using any suitable mechanism. In some embodiments, the connector includes two or more types of connectors configured to engage with each other, for example, in a plug-and-receptacle or male-female manner. Different surfaces of the toy construction elements may include corresponding types of connectors. In some embodiments, the connector includes one or more protrusions and one or more cavities, each cavity adapted to receive at least one protrusion in a frictional engagement manner.

[0050] Some embodiments of the game system disclosed herein allow users to construct a wide variety of toy construction models in a consistent and well-structured manner using a limited set of different types of toy construction elements. In some embodiments, the game system includes a plurality of toy construction elements, and a data processing system can be configured to generate virtual objects that resemble toy construction models that can be constructed from the plurality of toy construction elements. Thus, a user can construct toy construction models including identifying elements such that the construction model resembles the virtual object associated with it. Therefore, a user can easily identify which virtual object the physical toy construction model represents. It should be understood that the similarity can vary. For example, the representation of the virtual object presented by the data processing system can depict a construction model constructed from toy construction elements. In some embodiments, the representation of the virtual object can depict a toy construction model constructed from the same construction elements included in the game system for constructing toy construction models, optionally with or without an identifying element representation. In other embodiments, the representation of the virtual model can depict a larger model constructed from a larger number of toy construction elements, providing a more detailed or realistic shape for a given object. In other embodiments, the virtual representation can be depicted as a living object, rather than depicting individual toy construction elements.

[0051] The detection device can use any suitable mechanism to detect the presence of a physical toy or other type of identification element within its detection area. The detection mechanism may require an electrical connection to the identification element, or it may be a contactless detection mechanism, such as one based on radio frequency signals, optical detection, and / or another detection technology. The size and / or shape of the detection area is typically defined by the detection technology employed and the detection device implementing that technology. The detection device may be an integral part of a data processing system or a separate device, such as a computer peripheral, that can be connected to a data processing system via a wired or wireless connection. For the purposes of this description, the detection device will also be referred to as a reader, as some embodiments of the detection device also perform access to information associated with a physical toy or another type of identification element. The detection device may include an electrical connector for electrically connecting the identification element; alternatively, the detection device may include an antenna or other sensor for contactless detection of the identification element. In a first example, the detection area may thus be defined by the electrical connector, while in a second example, the detection area may be defined by the receiving range of the antenna or other contactless sensors. The detection device can define a detection or contact surface on which an identification element can be placed for detection purposes. In some embodiments, the detection device can be configured to detect the identification element only when it is positioned in contact with and / or near the surface (e.g., within 10 cm, such as 5 cm or less). Therefore, the surface can define a detection area. The detection / contact surface can be an outer surface of the housing of the detection device, such as the top surface. Detection technology can also allow a data processing system to access information contained in a physical toy or another type of identification element via the detection device. Alternatively, information access can use separate technologies; information access technologies can use, for example, radio frequency data communication, wired data communication, optical information access technologies, and / or the like. In some embodiments, the detection technology and / or information access technology are bidirectional technologies that allow the data processing system to communicate information to the identification element, for example, thereby altering, replacing, and / or supplementing the information contained in the identification element. In some embodiments, detection and information access are based on near field communication (NFC) or radio frequency identification (RFID).

[0052] In some embodiments, the detection device includes a processor and / or other circuitry implementing the detection mechanism, and a communication interface connected to the identification element. The processor and / or other circuitry may also implement a communication interface with a data processing system. The detection device may include connectors for mechanically connecting toy construction elements to the detection device, thereby allowing a user to construct a toy construction model that includes the detection device as an integral part, such as a model resembling a landscape, arena, portal, or other structure associated with a virtual environment. Thus, placing a toy construction model with identification elements within the detection area of ​​the detection device is analogous to placing a toy construction model within a landscape, arena, etc.

[0053] In some embodiments, a connector from the toy construction system can be used to detachably connect the physical toy to the detection device. Therefore, the position of at least a first portion of the physical toy relative to one or more detection areas of the detection device can be fixed. Thus, when the physical toy includes a second portion movably arranged relative to the first portion, wherein the second portion includes an identification element, the movement of the identification element into / out of the detection area can be performed in a controlled and reliable manner. The connector of the detection device can be contained in a portion of the surface including one or more detection areas, for example, the top or side surface of the housing of the detection device.

[0054] Typically, movement of an identification element relative to a detection area can include changing the distance between the detection area and the identification element and / or changing the relative orientation between the identification element and the sensor. For example, detection of an identification element within the detection area can be performed by a sensor with a predetermined detection range. Therefore, movement of the identification element can include movement of the identification element into / out of the sensor's detection range. Similarly, the sensor can define a detection direction, such as a primary detection direction. For example, in the case of an RFID reader, the sensor can include a coil antenna arranged in or below the detection area and defining the axial direction of the coil, such as a direction away from the detection surface, such as perpendicular to the detection surface. The identification element can also define an identification direction, and movement of the identification element can include aligning the identification direction with the detection direction. For example, in the case of an RFID identification element, the identification element can also include a coil antenna defining an axial direction. Aligning the axial direction of the sensor antenna and the antenna of the identification element makes the identification element detectable by the sensor. Similarly, movement of a first identification element relative to a second identification element can include changing the distance and / or relative orientation between the identification elements, such as the relative orientation of the identification axes of the respective identification elements. For example, two recognition elements can be moved so that their recognition axes can be selectively made to be substantially parallel or substantially orthogonal relative to each other.

[0055] The data processing system can be configured to establish an association between identification elements and virtual objects. Specifically, in some embodiments, the data processing system can be configured to:

[0056] -Detect the presence of the identification element within the detection area;

[0057] - Establishing associations between virtual objects in a virtual environment and detected identification elements;

[0058] - Access the information associated with the identification element when it is placed in the detection area again;

[0059] - To present a representation of the associated virtual objects based on the information accessed; and

[0060] -Execute the game mode program, which includes the representation of controlling virtual objects.

[0061] This association can be established at least in part in response to game events, such as user input, including user input instructing the selection of a virtual object associated with the identification element. Game events may include unlocking new virtual objects, such as an evolutionary variant of the current virtual object or a completely new type of virtual object. Game events may involve the game reaching a certain stage, the player obtaining a certain number of points, in-game currency, or other types of rewards, the user selecting a new virtual object from a list of available virtual objects, and / or similar events. In some embodiments, the data processing system is configured to replace the existing association between the identification element and the virtual object with a new association between the new virtual object and the identification element in response to game events, such that when the data processing system detects the presence of the identification element again within the detection area, the data processing system presents a representation of the new virtual object and executes a game mode procedure including controlling the representation of the new virtual object. Therefore, the user can associate the identification element with consecutive virtual objects. Thus, the user can use the identification element to selectively construct different toy construction models, each toy construction model having a corresponding virtual object associated with it.

[0062] Digital games can be implemented using various computers to realize the aspects described herein, including computer-generated virtual environments in which virtual objects are controlled by a data processing system. Program instructions allowing users to participate in the digital game can be provided, for example, in the form of a video game application. Virtual objects can typically be living or inanimate objects. Virtual objects can be fully autonomous objects or objects whose behavior is partially or fully responsive to user input. Examples of inanimate virtual objects include buildings, vehicles, weapons, or other configuration accessories or equipment, etc. Virtual objects can be static or movable within the virtual environment. For example, objects can be carried, worn, or otherwise moved by a virtual character and / or moved under user control, such as a car or other vehicle controlled in a racing game. Virtual objects can include movable parts (e.g., doors) and / or other modifiable parts.

[0063] Virtual objects can represent virtual characters or other living objects, such as human-like characters, animal-like characters, fantasy creatures, etc. In some embodiments, the physical world counterpart is an inanimate virtual object—such as a car—which can be used as a living virtual object or character in the virtual environment. Thus, in some embodiments, virtual objects are virtual characters, while in other embodiments, virtual objects are inanimate objects.

[0064] Virtual characters can exhibit behavior by moving around within a virtual environment, by interacting or substantially interacting with other virtual characters and / or inanimate virtual objects present in the virtual environment, and / or the virtual environment itself, and / or by otherwise developing within the virtual environment (e.g., growing, aging, developing or releasing abilities, attributes, etc.). Typically, virtual objects can possess attributes that influence gameplay or other evolution of the virtual environment, such as one or more abilities. For example, a car can have a maximum speed, or an object can have attributes that determine whether and how a virtual character interacts with the virtual object and / or similar attributes.

[0065] Therefore, a computer-generated virtual environment allowing users to participate in digital games can be implemented by a computer program executed on a data processing system, causing the data processing system to generate a virtual environment and simulate the evolution of said virtual environment over time, including simulating the evolution of the behavior of one or more virtual characters and / or the attributes of one or more virtual objects within the virtual environment over time. The computer-generated virtual environment can be persistent, i.e., it can continue to evolve and exist even when there is no user interaction with it (e.g., between user sessions). In an alternative embodiment, the virtual environment can evolve only when a user interacts with it, e.g., only during an active user session. The virtual objects can be at least partially user-controlled, i.e., the data processing system can control the behavior of virtual objects at least partially based on received user input. The computer-generated virtual environment can be a single-user environment or a multi-user environment. In a multi-user environment, more than one user can interact with the virtual environment simultaneously, e.g., by controlling corresponding virtual characters or other virtual objects within the virtual environment. Computer-generated virtual environments, particularly persistent multi-user environments, are sometimes also referred to as virtual worlds. Computer-generated virtual environments are frequently used in game systems where users can control one or more virtual characters within said virtual environment. Virtual characters controlled by users are sometimes referred to as "players." It should be understood that at least some embodiments of the aspects described herein can also be used in scenarios other than games. Examples of computer-generated virtual environments may include, but are not limited to, video games, such as skill games, adventure games, action games, real-time strategy games, role-playing games, simulation games, and combinations thereof.

[0066] A game system can present a representation of a virtual environment, including representations of one or more virtual objects (such as virtual characters) within that environment. The virtual environment and / or virtual objects can be presented as two-dimensional or three-dimensional graphical representations on the display of a data processing system. Users can access the computer-generated virtual environment to view the graphical representation and / or interact with it.

[0067] Typically, information associated with a physical toy or another type of identification element can include the identifier of the identification element. The data processing system can therefore establish an association with a virtual object by storing identifiers associated with the identifiers of the virtual toy's construct elements. The data processing system can store this association in its own storage device or in a storage device otherwise accessible to the data processing system. The storage medium of the data processing system, or the storage medium accessible to the data processing system, can be a memory or storage device contained in or connected to the data processing system. Alternatively or additionally, the data processing system can store the identifier of the virtual object in the memory of the identification element. The memory of the identification element can include any suitable storage medium, such as EPROM, EEPROM, NVRAM, etc. The memory can be read-only or rewritable.

[0068] In some embodiments, the information associated with the identification element may include information about a virtual object, such as an identifier for the virtual object. Therefore, the data processing system can establish an association with a virtual object by storing information about the virtual object in the memory of the identification element. For example, the memory of the identification element may include an identifier for the virtual object associated with the identification element.

[0069] In some embodiments, the data processing system is configured to present build instructions for constructing a toy construction model from toy construction elements of the game system, which resembles or otherwise represents a virtual object and can be connected to an identification tag element. Thus, the game system provides guidance to help the user construct a toy construction model that resembles or otherwise represents a virtual object. The build instructions can be presented in any suitable form, such as animation, video, a series of images, text, and / or a combination thereof. For example, the build instructions can be presented in response to game events and / or user input.

[0070] The game system may include multiple identifiable physical toys and / or multiple other identifying elements. The game system may also include multiple toy construction elements that allow the user to construct multiple toy construction models for use within the game system. However, it may be desirable to limit the user's freedom to use any identifying element at any point in gameplay. For example, a user may choose to disassemble a previously constructed toy construction model and reuse the corresponding identifying element to construct a new toy construction model similar to a recently unlocked virtual object. However, the user may later need the now-disassembled toy construction model to complete gameplay, as in some embodiments, the use of a virtual object may be conditional upon detecting that the virtual object is already associated with its identifying element. Therefore, the user may need to establish a new association with the identifying element in order to be able to use the virtual object again, leading to a potentially frustrating gaming experience. In some embodiments, the game system includes a first identification element and a second identification element, each including information associated with the corresponding identification element; wherein the data processing system is configured to unlock / enable one or more new virtual objects at least in response to detecting the first identification element; wherein the second identification element includes one or more connectors configured to connect one or more toy construction elements to the second identification element to allow a user to construct a toy construction model; and wherein the data processing system is configured to establish an association between one of the unlocked virtual objects and the second identification element at least in response to detecting the first and second identification elements in the same or different detection areas. Therefore, the system provides a mechanism for effectively guiding a user to use selected identification elements from a set of identification elements. In particular, since establishing an association with the second identification element requires the presence of the first identification element (which has an existing association), unintentional rewriting of existing associations can be prevented. In some embodiments, the first identification element is associated with a virtual character, while the second identification element is associated with inanimate objects, such as accessories used by the virtual character.

[0071] In some embodiments, the gaming system includes a detection device defining a first detection area and a second detection area distinct from the first detection area. The detection device may be configured to access information associated with an identification element detected in the first detection area; the detection device may be further configured to send information associated with the identification element to an identification element detected in the second detection area for storage by the identification element. Thus, the first detection area may be a read area, such as a read-only area, while the second detection area may be a write area, such as a write-only area, or an area that allows reading and writing information to / from the identification element. At least some of the identification elements may be operable to be selectively placed on each detection area and interact with the detection device via each detection area. Providing separate dedicated detection areas for detection and for writing information reduces the risk of a user unintentionally overwriting information on an identification element or causing an identification element to be read incorrectly. This risk can be further reduced when the data processing system is configured to send information to an identification element for storage only when the identification element is located in the second detection area and when another (e.g., a predetermined) identification element is detected in the first detection area. In some embodiments, some identification elements are associated with fixed virtual objects such that the association cannot be changed by the user, for example, by storing information about the associated virtual object in the read-only memory of the identification element. Other identification elements may be rewritable, meaning their associations can be changed by the user. In some embodiments, the game system is configured to allow users to change the association between inanimate virtual objects and identification elements only, while the association between identification elements and virtual characters is fixed / read-only.

[0072] In some embodiments, the identification element has the form of a substrate for supporting a toy construction model and for placing the toy construction model within the detection area of ​​the play system. The substrate may include one or more connectors on its upper surface, allowing a user to place and connect one or more toy construction elements on top of the substrate. The substrate may include electronic circuitry, such as one or more of the following: a processor, and antennas, memory, RFID circuitry, and / or similar components.

[0073] A data processing system may include or be connectable to a computer-readable medium from which a computer program can be loaded into a processor (e.g., a CPU) for execution. Thus, the computer-readable medium may store program code thereon, which, when executed on the data processing system, is adapted to cause the data processing system to perform the steps of the methods described herein. The data processing system may include a suitably programmed computer, such as a portable computer, tablet computer, smartphone, PDA, game console, gaming device, or another programmable computing device having a graphical user interface. In some embodiments, the data processing system may include a client system (e.g., including a user interface) and a host system capable of creating and controlling the virtual environment. The client system and the host system may be connected via a suitable communication network (e.g., the Internet).

[0074] Herein and below, the term "processor" is intended to include any circuitry and / or apparatus suitable for appropriately performing the functions described herein. In particular, the term includes general-purpose or special-purpose programmable microprocessors, such as central processing units (CPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic arrays (PLAs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), special-purpose electronic circuits, and combinations thereof, of computer or other data processing systems.

[0075] This disclosure also relates to a method for operating a data processing system, the method comprising performing some or all of the steps disclosed herein as performed by the data processing system. This disclosure also relates to a computer program product including program code devices that, when executed on a data processing system, are adapted to cause the data processing system to perform the steps of the method described herein for execution by the data processing system.

[0076] The computer program product may be provided as a computer-readable medium, such as a CD-ROM, DVD, optical disc, memory card, flash memory, magnetic storage device, floppy disk, hard disk, etc. In other embodiments, the computer program product may be provided as a downloadable software package, such as on a web server for downloading via the Internet or other computer or communication networks, or as an application for downloading to a mobile device from the App Store.

[0077] This disclosure also relates to a toy construction assembly comprising a plurality of toy construction elements and one or more identification elements. The toy construction assembly may also include a storage medium storing a computer program product as described herein and / or instructions for obtaining the computer program product as described herein. For example, the instructions may be provided in the form of an internet address, a reference to the App Store, etc. Some embodiments of the toy construction assembly may also include a detection device, such as a peripheral device that can be connected to a conventional computer via a wired or wireless interface (e.g., via a USB interface). Attached Figure Description

[0078] Figure 1-3 Each toy construction element is shown as an example of prior art;

[0079] Figure 4-5 An example of a toy construction system is shown;

[0080] Figure 6 Examples of use cases for the game system described in this article are shown;

[0081] Figure 7 Another example of the operation of an embodiment of the game system is shown;

[0082] Figure 8 An example of a detection device, also known as a reader, is shown.

[0083] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 The reader to which the toy construction model can be detachably attached;

[0084] Figure 10A -B and 11A-C show examples of physical toys that include more than one identification element;

[0085] Figure 12A -C shows an example of a toy that includes push buttons;

[0086] Figure 13 An example of a toy including three push buttons is shown;

[0087] Figure 14 Alternative examples of toys that include push buttons are shown;

[0088] Figure 15A -C shows another example of a toy that includes sensors. Detailed Implementation

[0089] The various aspects and embodiments of the play systems and toy construction systems disclosed herein will now be described with reference to toy construction elements in the form of bricks. However, the invention can be applied to other forms of construction elements for toy construction sets.

[0090] exist Figure 1 The image shows a toy construction element having a connecting post on its partial surface and a cavity extending from the bottom into a brick. The cavity has a central tube, and the connecting post on another brick can be received in the cavity in a frictional engagement as disclosed in US 3,005,282. Figure 2 and 3 Other such prior art construction elements are shown. The construction elements shown in the remaining figures have connectors in the form of mating posts and cavities of this known type. However, other types of connectors besides posts and cavities, or those that replace posts and cavities, can also be used. The connecting posts are arranged in a square planar grid, i.e., defining an orthogonal direction, with consecutive connecting posts arranged along this orthogonal direction. The distance between adjacent connecting posts is consistent and equal in both directions. This or similar arrangement of connectors at the connection positions defining a regular planar grid allows toy construction elements to be interconnected in discrete numbers of positions and orientations relative to each other (especially perpendicular to each other).

[0091] Figure 4 An embodiment of a game system is shown. The system includes a computer 401, an input device 402 connected to the computer, a display 403 connected to the computer, a reader 404 connected to the computer, multiple identification elements 407, 408, and multiple toy construction elements 409, 410.

[0092] Computer 401 may be a personal computer, desktop computer, laptop computer, handheld computer (e.g., tablet computer, smartphone, etc.), game console, handheld entertainment device, or any other computer that can be suitably programmed. Computer 401 includes a processor 411, such as a central processing unit (CPU), and one or more storage devices 412, such as memory, hard disk, and / or the like.

[0093] A display 403 is operatively connected to a computer 401, and the computer 401 is configured to display a graphical representation of a virtual environment on the display 403. Although in Figure 1 The diagram shows separate components; it should be understood that the display can be integrated into the computer's casing.

[0094] Input device 402 is operatively coupled to computer 401 and configured to receive user input. For example, the input device may include a keyboard, mouse, or other pointing device and / or similar. In some embodiments, the system includes more than one input device. In some embodiments, the input device may be integrated into the computer and / or display, for example, in the form of a touchscreen. It should be understood that the system may include additional peripheral computer devices operatively coupled to (e.g., integrated into) the computer.

[0095] The reader 404 is operable to detect one or more identification elements. For this purpose, the reader defines two detection areas 405 and 406, respectively, and is operable to detect an identification element when it is positioned within one of the detection areas. The reader includes one or more RFID circuits 413 and corresponding one or more antennas operable to detect identification elements placed on one of the detection areas. Alternatively, the reader may employ different detection and data communication technologies. In some embodiments, the reader may be integrated into a computer and / or display and / or input device 402.

[0096] Identifying elements 407 and 408 are in the form of a substrate, with a connector 414 on its top surface. Connector 414 is coupled with... Figure 1-3 The known construction elements are compatible. The game system also includes one or more toy construction elements 409 and 410, for example, combined with... Figure 1-3 The type of toy construction element described above. Although Figure 4 Two construction elements are shown; it should be understood that the game system can include any number of construction elements. One of the construction elements 409 has a combination as shown. Figure 1 The building blocks are shaped as described, and another building element 410 has a human figure shape. Both building elements have connectors—cavities in this example—for attaching to connectors of identification elements. Both building elements have additional connectors 415, 417 that allow the user to connect additional building elements, thereby constructing a toy building model comprising multiple building elements. Each of the identification elements includes RFID circuits 418, 419, respectively, operable to receive and store information. If another detection technology is used, the identification element may include a corresponding detection circuit or device. In particular, the stored information can identify virtual objects associated with the identified toy building element. In some embodiments, one or more identification elements included in a game system may be manufactured with pre-stored information indicating predetermined virtual objects. Alternatively or additionally, one or more identification elements may be manufactured without pre-stored information about any particular virtual object. In some embodiments, a game system may include one or more toy identification elements in which the pre-stored information is read-only, i.e., in this case, the identification element is associated with a fixed virtual object. For example, a game set may include one or more read-only identification elements and additionally include one or more rewritable identification elements. Read-only and rewritable identifiers can be visually distinguished from each other; for example, they can have different sizes, shapes, colors, designs, and so on. Read-only identifiers can be associated with virtual characters in a game, while the game system can allow users to associate rewritable identifiers with inanimate virtual objects.

[0097] Display 403, reader 404, and input device 402 can be operatively connected to a computer in various ways. For example, one or more of the aforementioned devices can be connected to the computer 401 via a suitable wired or wireless input interface, such as via the computer's serial or parallel port (e.g., USB port), via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or another suitable wireless communication interface. Alternatively, one or all of the devices can be integrated into the computer. For example, the computer may include an integrated display and / or input device and / or an integrated detection device. In particular, many tablet computers and smartphones include an integrated touchscreen that operates as a display and input device.

[0098] Computer 401 stores on it programs, such as Apps or other software applications, suitable for simulating virtual environments and creating and controlling virtual objects as described herein.

[0099] It should be understood that in some embodiments, computer 401 may be communicatively connected to a host system, such as via the Internet or other suitable computer network. At least a portion of the processes described herein may then be performed by the host system. For example, in some embodiments, the host system may generate and simulate a virtual environment, such as a virtual world, which may be accessed by multiple users from corresponding client computers. Users may use client computers executing appropriate programs to detect and identify elements, causing the client or host system to create corresponding virtual objects. The host system may then add the virtual objects to the virtual world and control the virtual objects within the virtual world.

[0100] Users can construct a corresponding toy model on top of each of the identification elements, each identification element having the form of a substrate. Alternatively, the identification elements can be incorporated into the toy model in different ways. In use, when a user places an identification element (e.g., a toy model with an attached to it) on the reader's detection area 405, the reader detects the presence of the identification element and accesses information stored therein (if any). The accessed information includes information about which virtual object the identification element is associated with, or information that allows the computer to otherwise identify the associated virtual object. In some embodiments, the information includes additional information, such as additional information indicating input to the sensor, as will be described in more detail below. In response to the detection of an identification element in the detection area 405, the computer thus creates or otherwise presents a representation of the associated virtual object in the virtual environment. In particular, the computer may create a representation of the associated virtual object on a display and / or allow the user to control or otherwise use the virtual object created in the virtual environment or otherwise interact with said virtual object.

[0101] When a user positions an identification element (e.g., a toy construct model attached to it) within the reader's detection area 406, the reader detects the presence of the identification element and allows the user to store information about a virtual object on the identification element. Therefore, when the user subsequently positions an identification element on detection area 405, the computer creates or implements the corresponding virtual object as described above. Typically, detection area 406 can be shaped and / or sized to allow the user to position only a single identification element on detection area 406, thus allowing only a single identification element to be written at a time. For example, the detection area can be formed as a recess having dimensions and shape corresponding to the size and shape of the identification element, i.e., such that a single identification element can be placed in the recess. For this purpose, detection area 406 can be recessed into the top surface of the housing of the detection device. Alternatively or additionally, raised edges can be formed around the detection area. It should be understood that detection area 405 can be shaped and / or sized to allow the detection of more than one identification element at a time.

[0102] In some embodiments, the detection area 406 is selectively used for writing to and reading from the identification element, but such that when the identification element is placed on the detection area 406, the data processor only reads data from the identification element or only writes data to the identification element. For example, the identification element may include multiple storage areas and / or stores multiple types / categories of information. When the identification element is placed within the detection area 405, all storage areas and / or data categories can be read but not changed. When the identification element is placed within the detection area 406, some storage areas and / or data types can be read but not changed, while other storage areas can be written to but not read.

[0103] Figure 5 Another embodiment of the game system is shown. Figure 5 The system is similar to Figure 4 The system includes a computer 401, an input device 402 connected to the computer, a display 403 connected to the computer, a reader 404 connected to the computer, multiple identification elements 407 and 408, and multiple toy construction elements 409 and 410, as shown in the reference. Figure 4 As described. Figure 5 The system and Figure 4 The difference in this system is that the reader includes three detection areas: such as... Figure 4 The writable detection area 406, and each of the following: Figure 4The detection area 405 comprises two read-only detection areas 405a and 405b. Providing two read-only detection areas 405a and 405b facilitates the differentiation of two-player games or other types of games where two categories of virtual objects need to be distinguished, such as objects belonging to two different players or two different teams. Therefore, the physical separation of the two detection areas provides users with an easy-to-use mechanism to define membership of two categories of virtual objects by simply placing the corresponding identification element on a selected one of the detection areas 405a and 405b, where each detection area is associated with one of the categories. It should be understood that other embodiments may include additional detection areas, for example, to define objects of more than two categories. In some embodiments, the respective detection areas 405a and 405b are associated with different areas of the game space or another virtual environment.

[0104] Figure 6 An example of the use of an embodiment of a game system is shown, such as... Figure 4 The game system. Specifically, Figure 6 The system includes a computer 401, an input device 402 connected to the computer, a display 403 connected to the computer, a reader 404 connected to the computer, multiple identification elements 407 and 408, and multiple toy construction elements 409 and 410, as combined. Figure 4 As described.

[0105] In this example, one of the identification elements 408 already stores information about a virtual character, and the game system includes a physical toy doll 410 resembling the virtual character. In the initial steps, the user is instructed to use the identification element 408 to assemble the toy doll 410. The computer 401 is configured to execute a video game program that includes a corresponding virtual character controllable by the user via an input device 402. When the user positions the identification element 408 on the reader's detection area 405, the computer detects the identification element, identifies the associated virtual character, and causes the associated virtual character to appear in the video game. During gameplay while the user controls the virtual character, a game event may occur that unlocks certain devices; in this example, the device is a tractor that the virtual character can use during subsequent gameplay.

[0106] In response to game events, the computer can provide the user with an indication that the user can obtain a virtual tractor (or another virtual object, such as a device that a virtual character can use or otherwise participate in the game). Figure 5A game system is illustrated, comprising an identification element 408 positioned within a detection area 405 of a reader 404, an attached toy figure 410, and an indication 620 of the unlocked virtual object displayed on a display 403. Optionally, the computer may also provide construction instructions to guide the user on how to construct a corresponding toy construction model, such as a tractor, from a toy construction element 409. Thus, the user can construct the toy construction model and attach it to another identification element 407 of the game system. When the user places the identification element 407 and the newly constructed model on the detection area 406 of the reader 404, the computer stores an identifier and / or other information indicating the newly unlocked virtual object on the identification element 407. In some embodiments, this process may require the identification element 408 associated with the original virtual character to remain positioned in the detection area 405. Storing the identifier of the new virtual object on the identification element does not require the system to access information currently stored on the identification element; therefore, the detection area 406 can operate as a write-only area.

[0107] Once information about the new virtual object is successfully stored on the recognition element 407, the user can remove the recognition element from the detection area 406. When the user subsequently places the recognition element 407 on the detection area 405, for example, together with the recognition element 408, ... Figure 5 As shown, computer 401 controls the video game to allow the user to control a virtual character associated with identification element 408 and to allow the virtual character to use or otherwise interact with virtual objects associated with identification element 407. For example, the virtual character can now drive a virtual tractor. It should be understood that the user can subsequently create or unlock additional virtual objects in a manner similar to that described above, and the virtual character can then use additional devices or other virtual objects. Additional virtual objects can be associated with additional identification elements, or the system can create new associations between identification element 407 and new virtual objects, such as a larger tractor or a different type of machine. Such new associations can supersede previous associations.

[0108] It should also be understood that in some embodiments, the data processing system may use detection area 406 to read data from the identification element, for example, in a manner similar to detection area 406. For example, when an identification element is detected placed within detection area 406, the data processing system may selectively operate detection area 406 as a read-only area or as a write-only area until the identification element is removed from detection area 406 again. When an identification element is subsequently placed, the processing system may, for example, in response to user input, game events, and / or other conditions, again determine / select whether to operate detection area 406 as a write-only area or a read-only area until the identification element is removed from detection area again. It should be understood that selective operation of detection area 406 in read-only or write-only mode can also be implemented in embodiments with two or more detection areas, for example, in combination Figure 5 The described embodiments.

[0109] Figure 7 Another example of the operation of an embodiment of a game system is shown, such as... Figure 4-6 One of the game systems. Specifically, Figure 7 Reader 404 is shown. Although not in Figure 7 As explicitly shown, reader 404 can be connected to the computer described in one or more of the preceding figures. Reader 404 is combined with... Figure 5 The aforementioned type refers to a reader used to read RFID identification elements. In this case, the reader includes three detection areas: such as... Figure 4 The writable detection area 406 and the two read-only detection areas 405a and b are described. Figure 7 A first toy 409 is also shown, which includes a first identification element positioned on a detection area 405b. In this example, the first toy is similar to a tractor attached to an identification element 407 including RFID circuitry, as described in conjunction with the preceding figures. When the tractor is positioned on the detection area 405b, a computer can control a video game to allow a user to control a virtual character to use or otherwise interact with the virtual tractor. For this purpose, the information associating the identification element 407 with the virtual tractor can be pre-stored on the identification element during the system's manufacture, or the information can be stored by the user, for example, in conjunction with... Figure 1 or Figure 6 As described.

[0110] Figure 7A second toy 709 is shown, which includes a second RFID identification element 707 and is also positioned on the detection area 405b, together with and next to the first toy. In this example, the second toy is analogous to an engine assembly attached to the identification element 707 as described in conjunction with the previous figures. When the tractor 409 is positioned on the detection area 405b together with the engine assembly 709, a computer can control a video game to allow a user to control a virtual character to use or otherwise interact with an enhanced virtual tractor, such as a tractor capable of traveling faster and / or a tractor that pulls heavier equipment than a tractor without enhancements. For this purpose, the information associating the identification element 707 with the enhancement of the virtual tractor may have been pre-stored on the identification element during the manufacture of the system, or the information may have been stored by the user, for example, in conjunction with... Figure 4-6 As described. Therefore, depending on whether toy 409 is positioned alone (or with other items not configured to modify the tractor) or with engine set toy 709 within the reader's detection area, the virtual tractor corresponding to toy 409 can have different attributes. When tractor 409 is placed within detection area 405b, depending on whether it is placed in the reading area with or without the engine set, the corresponding virtual tractor can also be represented differently on the computer monitor. For example, the virtual tractor can be displayed as having a smaller or larger engine. It should be understood that depending on whether the engine set is placed in the detection area with toys associated with virtual cars, virtual airplanes, etc., the engine set 709 can also be configured to affect other virtual toys such as virtual cars, virtual airplanes, etc. Furthermore, it should be understood that the engine set can be configured not to affect certain other virtual items, such as virtual characters, virtual trees, etc., even when the engine set is placed in the detection area with physical toys associated with virtual characters, virtual trees, etc. Therefore, physical toys can be associated with attachments or enhancements of virtual objects associated with themselves and other physical toys. When physical toys and other physical toys are placed within the reader's detection area, virtual objects associated with the other physical toys can be represented as having accessories or enhancements. It should be understood that in some embodiments, accessory toys must be positioned within the same detection area as the other toy in order to affect the virtual objects associated with said other toy. In other embodiments, accessory toys must be positioned within a different detection area than the other toy in order to affect the virtual objects associated with said other toy. Finally, in yet another set of alternative embodiments, accessory toys can affect the virtual objects associated with the other toy regardless of whether the physical toys and other toys are positioned in the same or different detection areas. The specific enhancements provided may depend on placement within the same or different detection areas.

[0111] Figure 8An example of an RFID reader 404 is shown. Although not in... Figure 8 As explicitly shown, reader 404 can be connected to a computer via a wired or wireless connection, as described in conjunction with one or more of the preceding figures. Reader 404 is combined with... Figure 5 The aforementioned type refers to a reader that includes three detection areas: such as a combination of Figure 4 The writable detection area 406 and the two read-only detection areas 405a and 405b are described.

[0112] The detection areas are all located on the top surface of the housing of reader 404, but are spaced apart from each other. In this example, detection areas 405a and 405b are L-shaped and allow at least three identification elements to be positioned within each of detection areas 405a and 405b, for example, one identification element is positioned in each leg of the L, and a third identification element is positioned in the area where the legs meet. Detection area 406 is shaped and sized to allow only a single identification element to be positioned within detection area 406 at a time. The top surface of reader 406 includes two sets of connectors 816a, 816b. In this example, the connectors are protrusions arranged in a regular two-dimensional grid and configured to frictionally engage corresponding cavities on the bottom surface of another toy construction element. The connectors are arranged adjacent to the respective detection areas 405a and 405b to allow toy construction elements of the type described herein to be connected to reader 404. Therefore, a user can add decorative parts to the reader, or a user can attach a toy construction model including identification elements to the reader, as described below. Figure 9 As described.

[0113] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 The reader 404 and toy construction model 909 are attached to connector 816a adjacent to detection area 405a. Toy construction model 909 includes a first portion 921 and a second portion 922 connected to the first portion via hinge 924. The first and second portions can be formed as a single component or from multiple toy construction elements. The second portion includes an identification element 407, such as a coupling... Figure 4-6The RFID identification element is described above. Therefore, when the first portion 1 is fixedly attached to the top surface of the reader 404, the second portion 922, including the identification element 407, can pivot about the hinge 923, allowing the identification element 407 to move into an active state approaching the detection area 405a, or to a deactivated state further removed from the detection area 405a. Furthermore, the identification element 407 includes a coil antenna defining an axis projecting axially from the bottom surface of the disc-shaped identification element. Similarly, the detection area 405a has an associated reader antenna, which also defines an axial axis projecting normally from the detection area 405a. In the active state, the axes of the identification element 407 and the detection area 405a are aligned with each other, while in the deactivated state, they are not aligned. The reader is configured such that when the second portion 922 pivots to activate the identification element 407, it can only detect the presence of the identification element 407 within the detection area 405a. Therefore, a computer connected to reader 404 can be configured to control gameplay in response to whether detection element 407 is currently active or deactivated. Thus, a user can conveniently activate / deactivate the game system's functionality by lowering the second part of the toy onto or raising it away from the detection surface of the defined detection area 405a. It should be understood that other embodiments may include different mechanisms for moving the movable portion of the toy relative to the fixed portion detachably attached to the reader, so as to allow the identification element contained in the movable portion to enter / leave a detectable state, i.e., to allow the identification element to be selectively detected or kept undetectable by the reader's detection area. Examples of such movements include rotational, translational movements, such as along the reader's contact surface or toward / away from the contact surface, etc. It should also be understood that the second part may have a default state. For example, the second part may be spring-loaded or otherwise default to being held in a detectable or undetectable state. Similarly, the movement of the movable part relative to the fixed part can be manually operated, or it can be operated by a drive device, such as an actuator or motor that can be driven by electrical energy or other suitable energy sources. Activation or deactivation can be triggered by sensor inputs, such as a user pressing a button, detected environmental conditions, such as light sensors, microphones, proximity sensors, etc.

[0114] Figure 10A -B and Figure 11A -C shows an example of a physical toy that includes more than one identification element. Specifically, Figure 10A -B and Figure 11A-C illustrates a physical toy comprising a first part 1021 and a second part 1022 movably interconnected with each other, i.e., the toy is formed as a coherent structure, but such that its respective interconnected parts can move relative to each other. In this example, the movement includes pivoting the parts relative to each other about a hinge 1023. However, other forms of relative movement can be provided, such as translational movement, rotation, etc. Each of the first and second parts includes corresponding identification elements 407a and 407b, respectively, for example, combined with... Figure 4-6 The type of RFID identification element described above. The toy is configured such that parts of it can be detected in a single detection state (e.g., Figure 10B , 11A (as shown in 11B) and dual detection state (e.g.) Figure 10A and 11C The two parts (as shown) move relative to each other. In single-detection mode, the two parts are oriented such that the toy can be placed on the reader's detection area, with only a single identification element within the detection area, meaning that only a single identification element within the detection area can be detected, while other identification elements are outside the detection area and cannot be detected. In dual-detection mode, the two parts are oriented such that the toy can be placed on the reader's detection surface, with both identification elements within the detection area, meaning that both identification elements can be detected by the reader.

[0115] For example, Figure 10A -B's toy resembles a bridge spanning between two pillars; the base of each pillar is formed by one of the identifying elements. The bridge can enter an open state, in which both pillars can be placed on the contact surface, and the bridge can enter a closed state, in which only one of the pillars can rest on the contact surface at any time, while the base of the other pillar points upward away from the contact surface.

[0116] Figure 11A -C's toy resembles a seashell, with identification elements located on the outer surface of the shell. The shell can be opened, in which two identification elements can be placed on the contact surface, and the shell can be closed, in which only one of the identification elements can be positioned on the contact surface at any time, while the base of the other points upward away from the contact surface.

[0117] Therefore, depending on how the parts are positioned relative to each other, the toy can be positioned on the reader such that only one or both recognition elements are in the detection area, for example, in the same detection area, or as... Figure 10A As shown, each of them is located in a different detection area. Figure 11A -C indicates the shells in three different states: Figure 11A The image shows a shell with the identification element 407a pointing downwards and positioned on the reader's detection area (not in...). Figure 11A (This is explicitly shown in -C). In this state, when the identification element 407a is located within the reader's detection area, other identification elements 407b cannot be detected by the reader. Figure 11B The image shows a shell with identification element 407b pointing downwards and positioned within the reader's detection area. In this state, when identification element 407b is positioned within the reader's detection area, identification element 407a cannot be detected by the reader. Figure 11C The image shows a shell with two identification elements 407a and 407b pointing downwards and positioned on the reader's detection area. In this state, the two identification elements 407a and 407b can be detected simultaneously in the same or corresponding detection areas of the reader.

[0118] Similarly, Figure 10B Such a bridge is shown, with the identification element 407a pointing downwards and positioned on the reader's detection area (not in...). Figure 10B (as clearly shown in the diagram). In this state, when the identification element 407a is located within the detection area of ​​the reader, the identification element 407b cannot be detected by the reader. Figure 10B A bridge is shown in which two identification elements 407a and 407b are pointed downward and positioned on the corresponding detection areas of the reader, and can be detected simultaneously by the corresponding detection areas of the reader, i.e., such that identification element 407a is positioned in detection area 405a and identification element 407b is positioned in detection area 405b.

[0119] Therefore, in Figure 10A In the examples -B and 11A-C, the reader can detect one or two identification elements and thus detect the current state of the corresponding toy, i.e., how the corresponding parts are positioned relative to each other. For this purpose, the toy's identification elements 407a, 407b can include the same identifier or other information identifying the toy, such as identifying a shell or a bridge. Therefore, in such an embodiment, the reader can identify the toy and distinguish between a single-detection state and a double-detection state. Alternatively, the toy's identification elements can include different information, such as information identifying the toy and the corresponding identification element, thereby allowing the reader to further distinguish which of the two identification elements is detected in a single-detection state, for example, to differentiate... Figure 11A and Figure 11B The state is shown in the diagram. Therefore, the computer can control gameplay in response to the detected state; for example, depending on whether a physical toy bridge is detected to be in its open or closed state, it can allow a virtual character to traverse it. Figure 10A -B's physical toys are linked to virtual bridges. Similarly, depending on... Figure 11A-C indicates whether the physical shell is detected as being in its open or closed state, while the virtual shell may allow access to its contents or have other attributes.

[0120] The reader can also be configured to detect identification elements or which detection area each identification element is placed in, and the computer can control gameplay in response to the defined detection area(s). For example, each detection area can be associated with a corresponding area in a virtual world or other game space. When a toy is positioned within a detection area, a virtual character or virtual object can be positioned within the associated area of ​​the virtual world or game space. Figure 10A In the example where a bridge or other object is positioned such that its identifying elements are located in two different detection areas, the areas associated with the two detection areas can be connected in the game, for example, via a bridge or other passage, to allow virtual characters to move between areas along the bridge or other passage. For example, a bridge or passage can provide a shortcut or passage that is not available to other virtual characters in the game.

[0121] As mentioned above Figure 9 As described, the relative movement of the parts of the toy can be performed by applying manual force, by a motor or other actuator. Figure 10A -B and Figure 11A -C toys can be assembled using the toy construction elements described herein.

[0122] Although the example above shows a toy with two identification elements, it should be understood that other examples of physical toys may include three, four, or even more identification elements.

[0123] The following will describe examples of toys that include sensors (e.g., user-controllable inputs) and one or more identification elements that transmit information about the sensor inputs to a reader.

[0124] In particular, Figure 12A -C illustrates an example of a toy 1209 including a push button. This toy can be formed as a standalone toy element, or it can be assembled from multiple toy construction elements, such as the type described above. Toy 1209 includes a tubular member 1224, in which a push button 1225 is slidably arranged. One end of the push button facing the tubular member is spring-loaded, and it can be pushed to the other end by finger pressure. The base of the push button includes an identification element 1207, such as an RFID tag as described herein. When toy 1209 is placed in the detection area of ​​a reader, such as in conjunction with the above... Figure 4-6The reader, with button 1225 facing upwards, positions identification element 1207 at a distance from the detection area, defined by the axial length of the tubular member. This distance can thus be configured such that the identification element is not detected by the detection area unless it is pressed downwards by finger pressure applied directly to the button or by pressure applied by another toy construction element (another toy construction element attached to the button). For this purpose, the button may include a connector for attaching the other toy construction element described herein. Figure 12A A perspective view of a toy with a button 1225 in an undetectable state is shown. Figure 12B A cross-sectional view of a toy with a button 1225 in an undetectable state is shown, while Figure 12C A cross-sectional view of a toy having a button 1225 in an active and detectable state is shown.

[0125] Figure 13 Another example of a toy 1309 is shown, comprising three buttons 1325A-C, each button including an identification element that can selectively enter a detectable state by applying finger pressure to the corresponding button. The identification elements of the respective buttons can be configured to send the same information when detected by a reader, or they can be configured to send different information for each. Thus, the reader can be configured to detect the presence of the toy in a detection area and how many buttons are currently pressed. In some embodiments, the reader is even able to identify which corresponding buttons are currently pressed.

[0126] It should be understood that other embodiments of the toy may include other types of movable elements that can selectively enter a detectable state. Other toys may include automated mechanisms that include sensors and actuators configured to automatically bring the identification element into a detectable state in response to a sensor signal.

[0127] In response to sensor input, the identification element can also control the information sent to the reader in different ways.

[0128] For example, an alternative example of a toy including a push button can be implemented using two RFID identification circuits, each configured to send a corresponding ID, such as... Figure 14 It is shown schematically in the diagram. Figure 14The toy element 1409 includes two ID circuits 1426a and 1426b, which are electrically connected to antenna 1427 via switch 1425. For example, each identification circuit may include an RFID chip. The switch is configured to selectively connect one ID circuit to antenna 1427 while disconnecting the other ID circuit from the antenna. Thus, depending on the activation state of the switch, information from one ID circuit or the other ID circuit is transmitted. It should be understood that alternative embodiments of the toy may include different numbers of ID circuits that can be selectively connected to the antenna. For example, one embodiment of the toy may include a single identification circuit that can be selectively connected to or disconnected from the antenna. Other examples may include three, four, or even more identification circuits, such that at a given time, no circuit or one of the circuits can be connected to the antenna.

[0129] It should be understood that the identification circuitry can be coupled by current, inductance, or capacitance, or performed in various suitable ways. In yet another embodiment, the information transmitted by the toy can be controlled in different ways, such as by selectively shielding the antenna or otherwise altering the antenna's transmission characteristics. Alternatively, the identification circuitry may include a memory configured to send information stored in the memory to a reader. The identification circuitry may also include control circuitry that receives a signal indicating the activation state of a selector or another form of sensor signal. The control circuitry may be configured to store information about the activation state or other sensor signal in the memory, such that the identification circuitry sends the stored information indicating the activation state or other sensor signal to the reader. The toy may be configured such that the memory contents can be changed only when the toy is within the detection area. Alternatively, the toy may be configured such that the memory contents can be changed only when the toy is not within the detection area. In yet another alternative embodiment, the toy may be configured such that the memory contents can be changed regardless of whether the toy is within the detection area. Thus, a computer receiving input from the reader can control gameplay based on the toy's detected activation state or other sensor signals.

[0130] exist Figure 13 In the example, the toy includes a push button. However, alternative embodiments may include other forms of user-controllable activators or selectors, such as rotary buttons. For example, a rotary button could allow a user to selectively connect one of a plurality of ID circuits to an antenna, for example, by rotating a contact member. Other embodiments may include other types of sensors, such as light sensors, vibration sensors, tilt sensors, and so on.

[0131] exist Figure 13In examples and other embodiments, button activation is detected only when the button is pressed while the toy is within the detection area. Nevertheless, other embodiments of the toy may include sensors configured to: detect activation, measure parameters, or provide another form of sensor input when the toy is not within the detection area; and send information about such vibration, measurement, or other form of sensor input when the toy is subsequently positioned within the reader's detection area. For example, a user can change the position of a selector switch while holding the toy in their hand before placing it on the reader's detection area. Another example of the toy may include a vibration sensor that detects the degree of vibration—such as the degree to which the user shakes the toy—and stores the detected degree in memory so that information can be sent subsequently when the toy is placed back in the reader's detection area.

[0132] Figure 15A -C shows another example of a toy that includes sensors. Figure 15A In the example of -C, the sensor is a user-controllable rotatable knob. The toy includes circuitry that incorporates an identification element that sends information indicating the angular position of the rotatable knob. Specifically, Figure 15A The electrical control circuitry of the toy is shown schematically. Figure 15B An exploded view of the toy is shown, while Figure 15C A 3D view of the assembled toy is shown.

[0133] The toy, generally designated 1509, comprises a shell formed by a base plate 1536 and a generally dome-shaped cover 1528. The dome-shaped cover 1528 includes a hole 1540 at the apex of the dome, through which a knob 1525 extends. Specifically, a portion of the knob extends upward beyond the hole 1540, allowing this portion of the knob to rotate relative to the cover and about a central axis defined by the knob and the dome-shaped cover. The knob 1525 includes a connector 1514 on its top surface, allowing one or more toy construction elements to be attached to the knob, for example, to configure the knob with decorative parts or to provide a custom gripping portion. The knob 1525 also includes a radially outwardly extending indicator element 1542 that indicates the current angular position of the knob relative to the cover. For this purpose, different markings can be provided on the outer surface of the cover, such that the indicator points to different markings at different angular positions.

[0134] A portion of the knob extending inward into the aperture 1540 is attached to a rotatable member 1529 such that the rotatable member 1529 rotates about a central axis when the knob is rotated. For this purpose, the rotatable member is rotatably supported on a base plate 1536. The rotatable member includes a conductive activation member 1530, which also rotates with the rotatable member 1529 and the knob 1525. The activation member includes two spring-biased conductive terminals 1531 and 1532, each configured to follow a circular trajectory when the knob 1525 is rotated. The conductive activation member provides a conductive path connecting terminals 1531 and 1532 to each other. The trajectory defined by the movement of terminals 1531 and 1532 when the knob 1525 is rotated is a concentric circle about the central axis. The radius of the circle defined by the trajectory of terminal 1532 is larger than the corresponding radius of the trajectory of terminal 1531.

[0135] The toy also includes an identification element in the form of a ring-shaped circuit board 1533, which is fixedly disposed on a substrate 1536 and within a cover 1528, such that spring-biased terminals contact the top surface of the circuit board 1533. The top surface of the circuit board includes an inner circular conductive path 1535 and a plurality of separate conductive path segments 1534. Each conductive path segment is formed in an arc shape such that they together define an outer circle, but each path segment is electrically insulated from each other and from the inner circular conductive path 1535. The inner and outer circles are concentric and correspond to the circular trajectories of terminals 1531 and 1532, respectively. Therefore, when the knob is turned, the inner terminal 1531 is always in electrical contact with the inner circular conductive path 1535, while the outer terminal 1532 contacts one of the conductive path segments 1534 or the insulating arc portion separating the two conductive path segments 1534. Accordingly, depending on the angular position of the knob, an activation member provides a conductive path between one or more conductive path segments 1534 and the inner circular conductive path 1535. Figure 15A In the example of -C, the circuit board includes eight path segments 1534. However, it should be understood that other embodiments may include a different number of path segments.

[0136] Circuit board 1533 also contains Figure 15AThe circuit shown includes a microcontroller unit 1538, an RFID identification circuit 1539 operably coupled to the microcontroller unit, and an RFID antenna 1527 operably coupled to the RFID identification circuit 1539. The microcontroller unit 1538 includes a plurality of switch contacts connected to corresponding path segments 1534. The microcontroller unit also includes a baseline input connected to an internal circular conductive path 1535. Therefore, depending on the angular position of the knob 1525, one or no switch contact of the microcontroller unit is connected to the baseline input of the microcontroller unit. The microcontroller unit is configured such that the RFID identification circuit, when queried, sends data indicating which switch contacts (if any) are connected to the baseline. Accordingly, when queried by an RFID reader, Figure 15A The control circuit responds with data indicating the current angular position of the knob 1525. For example, each angular position of the knob can be associated with a different ID.

[0137] When toy 1509 is placed in the reader's detection area, for example, as described above... Figure 4-6 The reader can detect the current angular position of the knob 1525 and can control the digital game in response to the detected angular position of the knob 1525. Therefore, the knob 1525 is a user-controllable actuator whose position is detected by the toy and communicated to the reader.

[0138] Various embodiments of the various aspects disclosed in this specification have been described above.

[0139] For example, embodiments of toys having two or more identical identification elements (e.g., identification elements that send the same ID or other information, also referred to as tags) have been described. The toy example allows the user to adjust the toy's physical appearance. This adjustment also allows the user to change the relative position and / or orientation of the identification elements relative to each other. Thus, two (or more) identical tags can be placed in the toy such that they can be read by a reader in one (or more) detection areas, or read one after another, or more than one at a time. Depending on how many tags are read, and optionally depending on whether different tags are on the same detection area, embodiments of digital games executed by a game system can display different virtual items or alter the behavior of virtual items. For example, a physical toy can resemble a seashell, displaying a virtual seashell if one tag is read while the shell is closed. If two tags are read, the shell is opened. If the tags are read by different reading areas, this can allow access to different digital content.

[0140] In some embodiments of the aspects described herein, the different detection areas of the reader each represent a different location in the game. If two identical tags attached to the same toy are placed on different detection areas—that is, such that the toy spans the gap between the detection areas—the area represented in the game is connected, for example, via a line, bridge, rope, or spiral. This functionality can also be achieved with two (or more) toys (similar or dissimilar in appearance) having the same tags, which are not connected but visually represent a connection point; this could be an elevator, a train station, a gate, a telephone, etc.

[0141] In some embodiments, virtual counterparts of unconnected or connected toys with the same label can become connected in the digital game if they are placed on the same detection area. For example, if two toys resembling small creatures are positioned on the detection area, a single creature with a new appearance and / or abilities can appear in the digital game.

[0142] In some embodiments, a label operable as a button may be provided. In such embodiments, one (or more) labels may be positioned near or even in contact with the detection device, but outside the detection range of the detection device. When the button or other activator is pushed down / rotated, etc., the label may enter the reader's detection range and activate a function of the digital game, for example, by presenting different possibilities in the digital game. Selection can then be made by letting go of the label. In some embodiments, the toy may have two or more identical labels, wherein different functions / representations are activated in the game depending on how many labels are read. In some embodiments, the function / representation may also depend on which of the multiple detection areas the label is detected in.

[0143] Similarly, examples of toys with two or more unique identifying elements (e.g., identifying elements that send different IDs or other information) have been described. Here, the term "unique" means a tag that can be distinguished from one another. In some embodiments, two (or more) unique tags may be placed in the toy so that a reader can read them in one (or more) detection areas, or one after another, or more than one at a time. Depending on which tags of the physical toy are read, optionally depending on the combination and whether the different tags are in the same detection area, the digital game may display virtual items that look different, or virtual items that behave or operate differently. The physical toy may include two distinguishable tags configured such that only one tag can be detected at a time. For example, the tags may be placed on different sides of the toy, such as opposite sides. When tags of toys resembling items / vehicles / engines are placed in detection areas specified by the game system, these tags may cause the virtual in-game counterparts of the toy to be combined into an item / vehicle / engine, etc., with new attributes. These toys may also resemble puzzle pieces in shape or be physically interlocking so that their appearance indicates they can be combined.

[0144] Embodiments of the methods described herein can be implemented by hardware comprising several discrete elements and / or at least in part by a suitably programmed microprocessor.

[0145] The claims list several devices, some of which may be implemented by the same element, component, or hardware item. The recitation of certain measures in mutually different dependent claims, or the description of certain measures in different embodiments, does not indicate that combinations of these measures cannot be advantageously used.

[0146] It should be emphasized that when the term "comprising / including" is used in this specification, it is used to specifically describe the presence of the stated feature, element, step, or component, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, steps, components, or combinations thereof.

Claims

1. A toy construction system comprising toy construction elements, each toy construction element including one or more connectors configured to mechanically connect the toy construction element to one or more other toy construction elements of the toy construction system to allow a user to construct a toy construction model, the toy construction system comprising: A physical toy having one or more connectors compatible with the toy construction system, wherein the physical toy includes a first part and a second part, wherein the first part and the second part are movably interconnected with each other, wherein the second part is movably arranged relative to the first part, wherein the second part includes an identification element, the identification element including information related to the identification element and / or the physical toy; and A detection device is configured to detect the presence of the identification element within a detection area of ​​the detection device; wherein the detection device includes one or more connectors compatible with the toy construction system, wherein the physical toy can be detachably connected to the detection device using the connectors; wherein when the physical toy is connected to the detection device, the position of a first portion of the physical toy is fixed relative to the detection area; and wherein a second portion is movable relative to the detection area between a detectable state and an undetectable state; wherein the detection device is configured to detect the identification element only when the second portion is in the detectable state.

2. The toy construction system according to claim 1, wherein, The physical toy is a coherent structure constructed from one or more toy construction elements of the toy construction system.

3. The toy construction system according to claim 1, wherein, The detection device includes at least two detection areas, and the detection device is configured to detect the presence of an identification element in each detection area, and to detect in which detection area the identification element is detected.

4. The toy construction system according to claim 1, wherein, The physical toy is configured to transmit information to the detection device when the identification element is located in the detection area of ​​the detection device; The physical toy includes a sensor configured to detect input, and the physical toy is configured to change the transmitted information in response to the detected input.

5. The toy construction system according to claim 1, wherein, The identification element is a toy construction element that includes one or more connectors configured to mechanically connect one or more other toy construction elements to the identification element, allowing a user to construct a toy construction model.

6. The toy construction system according to claim 1, wherein, Information associated with the identification element includes identifiers that identify the identification element and / or the physical toy.

7. The toy construction system according to claim 1, wherein, The identification element includes a memory that stores information related to the identification element and / or the physical toy.

8. The toy construction system according to claim 1, wherein, The movement of the recognition element relative to the detection area includes changing the distance between the detection area and the recognition element and / or changing the relative orientation between the recognition element and the detection area.

9. The toy construction system according to claim 1, wherein, The detection device includes a sensor with a detection range and / or a primary detection direction.

10. The toy construction system according to claim 9, wherein, The sensor includes a coil antenna, which is arranged relative to the detection area and defines the axial direction of the coil.

11. The toy construction system according to claim 9, wherein, The recognition element defines a recognition direction, and the movement of the recognition element into the detectable state includes aligning the recognition direction with the detection direction.

12. The toy construction system according to claim 1, wherein, The identification element includes a coil antenna that defines an axial direction.

13. The toy construction system of claim 1, configured to allow relative movement of the first and second portions of the physical toy by applying hand force, by a motor, or by another actuator.

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