Connected yo-yo

Abstract

A yo-yo ball has at least one sensor configured to measure a parameter related to motion of the yo-yo ball, a transmitter configured to transmit the measured parameter to a computing device. The processor is configured to determine a position of the yo-yo relative to a reference device based on a signal transmitted between the yo-yo and the reference device. The server is configured to determine stunts performed using the yo-yo based on the measured parameters, and communicate the determination results to one or more computing devices of different players.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Rotatable devices such as yo-yos, diabolos, Frisbees, spinning tops, dreidels, etc. provide entertainment to their players through their movement and ability to perform tricks. Figure 1 An example yo-yo 100 is illustrated. The example yo-yo 100 has a body having two housings 102, 104 connected by an axis 106. Although not shown, a rope is wound around the axis 106 and is used to control the rotation of the yo-yo 100. For example, the yo-yo can be wound and unwound at one end of the rope, roll the rope up and down, and rotate at one end of the rope. While rotating, other stunts can be performed by throwing, flipping, and twisting the yo-yo 100 around and onto the rope. However, this entertainment is limited in time and space for the player and nearby people who can watch the player. Summary of the invention

[0002] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a system includes: a yo-yo, wherein the yo-yo includes: two shells, wherein the two shells are connected by an axis; and a sensor, wherein the sensor is accommodated in one of the two shells, and the first sensor is configured to measure a parameter related to the movement of the yo-yo; a reference device; and a processor, wherein the processor is configured to determine the position of the yo-yo relative to the reference device based on a signal transmitted between the yo-yo and the reference device, or based on the magnetic field strength between the yo-yo and the reference device.

[0003] In various implementations of the above embodiments, the reference device is a wearable device; the reference device is a ring, and the processor is configured to determine the position of the yo-yo relative to the ring based on the magnetic field strength of the ring detected at the yo-yo; the reference device is a smart watch, and the processor is configured to determine the position of the yo-yo relative to the smart watch based on the power, flight time or phase shift of the signal transmitted between the yo-yo and the smart watch; the processor is housed in the yo-yo; the processor is housed in the reference device; the yo-yo also includes: the processor, the memory and the transmitter, wherein the processor is further configured to: when the yo-yo is not in wireless communication with the computing device, collect the measured parameters related to the movement of the yo-yo from the sensor, and store the collected measured parameters in the memory, and after establishing wireless communication with an external computing device, cause the transmitter to transmit the stored measured parameters to the computing device; the reference device is the computing device; and / or the yo-yo, the reference device and the computing device are separate devices, and all communicate with each other wirelessly.

[0004] According to another embodiment, a method includes: measuring a parameter related to the movement of the yo-yo using a sensor housed in a housing of the yo-yo, the yo-yo including a housing connected by an axis; and determining the position of the yo-yo relative to a reference device by: determining the power, flight time or phase shift of a signal transmitted between the yo-yo and the reference device, or determining the magnetic field strength of the reference device at the yo-yo.

[0005] In various implementations of the above embodiments, the reference device is a ring, and the position of the yo-yo is determined based on the magnetic field strength of the reference device at the yo-yo; the reference device is a smart watch, and the position of the yo-yo is determined based on the power, flight time or phase shift of the signal transmitted between the yo-yo and the smart watch; the method also includes: when the yo-yo is not in wireless communication with the computing device, storing the measured parameters in the memory of the yo-yo, and after establishing wireless communication with an external computing device, transmitting the stored measured parameters to the computing device; and / or the computing device is the reference device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 Front and perspective views of an example yo-yo are illustrated.

[0007] Figure 2 An example system architecture of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0008] Figure 3 Example operations of a motion tracking sensor are illustrated.

[0009] Figure 4 An example yo-yo is illustrated with an exploded view of the components contained therein.

[0010] Figure 5 Illustrated Figure 4 A cross-section view of an example yo-yo.

[0011] Figure 6 Illustrated Figure 4 An example of a first shell of a yo-yo.

[0012] Figure 7 Illustrated Figure 4 The second shell of the example yo-yo.

[0013] Figure 8 Example user interface elements for a yo-yo illustrating the present disclosure.

[0014] Fig. 9 A side view of the interior of a housing of an example yo-yo is illustrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] In view of the above, the present disclosure relates to "smart" yo-yos and similar rotatable devices, and corresponding "connected" computing devices (e.g., computers or cellular phones with processors, memory, displays, etc.) that together can detect motion and stunts, and facilitate virtual entertainment of the rotatable devices. For example, the system described herein can allow one player to perform while watching other players perform when the players are in different locations. This can be used, for example, Figure 2 This is achieved by the system architecture illustrated in FIG.

[0016] according to Figure 2 In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , each player has his or her own yo-yo (or similar rotatable device) 200 , 210 and associated computing device 202 , 212 . Figure 2 Two players are illustrated, but the present disclosure is not so limited and can therefore include any number of players. In addition, although the following description mentions a yo-yo, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not so limited and can therefore be applied to any rotatable device. Each player's computing device 202, 212 can be a personal cellular phone, tablet computer, computer, etc. that runs an application (app) or similar software on any platform (e.g., ANDROID, IOS, WINDOWS, etc.). The computing devices 202, 212 are connected to the corresponding yo-yos 200, 210, and are connected to each other (the computing devices of other players). The connection between the devices can be via a "cloud" network 220 (e.g., a wireless communication network or the Internet) or a short-range and / or low-power communication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth (and Bluetooth low energy (BLUETOOTH LOWENERGY, BLE)), near field communication (NFC), radio frequency identification (RFID), etc.). For example, each yo-yo 200, 210 may be connected to a corresponding computing device 202, 212 via Bluetooth (or BLE), and each computing device 202, 212 may be connected to each other via the Internet.

[0017] In order to connect the yo-yo 200, 210 directly to the computing device 202, 212, the yo-yo can include a code or tag (e.g., a QR code and / or an NFC or RFID tag) set on the surface of the yo-yo 200, 210. In some embodiments, the tags can be kept inside the yo-yo 200, 210 (e.g., in the shell housing) because they can be detected wirelessly without line of sight. These codes and tags can be scanned by the computing device 202, 212 to connect to and set up the yo-yo 200, 210 (e.g., automatically or by guiding the user to the appropriate configuration settings on the user interface of the yo-yo 200, 210 or the computing device 202, 212). In some embodiments, the code can be displayed on the yo-yo 200, 210 as a sticker. The sticker can be peelable so that it can be removed after the initial connection.

[0018] The system may also include one or more central servers and / or databases 230 to which each player's computing device 202, 212 and / or yo-yo 200, 210 is connected via the network 220. The central server 230 may facilitate communications between the players' computing devices 202, 212 and / or yo-yo 200, 210, and facilitate processing of data collected by the computing devices 202, 212 and / or captured by the yo-yo 200, 210.

[0019] According to this architecture, data about the motion and position of the yo-yo 200, 210 captured by the yo-yo can be shared among all devices and players. For example, the yo-yo 200 of player 1 can capture motion data (e.g., the number of rotations per minute) during its use, and transmit the data to the computing device 202 of player 1 via Bluetooth (or BLE). Then, the computing device 202 of player 1 can process some or all of the data, and / or transmit some or all of the data to the central server 230 via the Internet 220 for processing. In some embodiments, the yo-yo 200, 210 can also perform some processing on the captured motion data. Such processing can identify any motion and stunts of the yo-yo performed by player 1 based on the detected motion data and / or score any of the motion and stunts. The processed data can then be transmitted from the central server 230 or the computing device 202 of player 1 to the computing device 212 of player 2 for output (e.g., display and / or sound), so that player 2 can be informed of the activities of player 1. The results of any data processing performed by the central server 230 may also be transmitted back to the computing device 202 of player 1. Each computing device 202, 212 may then show a display corresponding to the detected movements and stunts. For example, the detected movements and stunts of player 1 may be virtually animated on any of the player's computing devices 202, 212. In some embodiments, the processed data may also be used to control the computing devices, for example, to play the game via control inputs.

[0020] Although not shown, some players may also have cameras (e.g., as part of computing devices 202, 212) for capturing images and / or video of the yo-yo 200, 210 and / or the players. Images and / or video from one player's camera may also be transmitted over network 220 and viewed by other players and / or spectators on their computing devices.

[0021] Each yo-yo 200, 210 preferably includes at least one sensor for detecting motion and at least one transmitter (or transceiver) for communicating with an associated computing device. In some embodiments, the sensor and / or transmitter may include a registration tag that uniquely identifies the yo-yo. In addition, each player may have a registration account associated with their device (e.g., as maintained at the central server 230). In this way, each device may be registered to a specific player (or player account). When registered to a specific player, when the player logs into his account (e.g., via an application) on any computing device 202, 212, the player may access recorded data, usage history, etc. associated with the device via the computing device.

[0022] In some embodiments, registration may also be used to authenticate the yo-yo 200, 210. For example, the registration tag may be compared to a database of known tags associated with authentically manufactured devices (e.g., as maintained at the central server 230). If a player attempts to register an unauthentic device with their account, the device may be rejected by the system.

[0023] As indicated above, during operation, the sensor(s) measure motion information of the yo-yo 200, 210, and the yo-yo 200, 210 transmits the measured motion information to the corresponding connected computing device via the transmitter. The computing device 202, 212 can then further process the detected information for further communication to other player computing devices and / or the central server 230 via the network 220. The transmitter is preferably any type of low-power transmitter. For example, the transmitter can utilize the Bluetooth (or BLE) communication protocol for communicating with the computing device 202, 212.

[0024] The sensor(s) may be a gyroscope, an accelerometer, a force / pressure sensor, a positioning sensor (e.g., GPS), a motion tracking sensor, a timer, a time of flight sensor, a light reflection sensor, a radar sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a microwave sensor, a magnetometer, a Hall effect sensor, a Bluetooth sensor, an RFID sensor, an NFC sensor, a wearable sensor (e.g., a smart watch, a fitness tracker, and / or a ring), etc. The sensor(s) may preferably be capable of measuring speed, revolutions per minute (RPM), rotational / angular and / or linear speed and / or acceleration, length of motion, rotation time, time in a "sleeping" state, number of turns, angle of rotation, number of contact points with the rope, position, motion, and similar dynamics indicating the player's skill and / or the stunts performed using the yo-yo 200, 210. In some embodiments, the sensor may be an array of the same or different sensors. For example, the sensor may include a multi-axis accelerometer (e.g., with multiple separate accelerometers arranged to measure six degrees of motion, including three degrees of rotation and three degrees of linear motion).

[0025] Once the measurements are transmitted from the yo-yo 200, 210 to the corresponding computing device 202, 212, the measurements can be further processed to, for example, identify the speed of the throw along the length of the string, the length of the throw, the rotation / angular and / or linear acceleration / deceleration and / or speed during a period of time, the number of turns of the yo-yo at different angles (e.g., the number of turns of more than 90 degrees, more than 180 degrees, and more than 360 degrees), the number of times the rotatable device is fully extended, the number of times the yo-yo axis touches the string when rotating, etc. Some parameter determinations can also be based on measurements from more than one sensor. For example, a combination of measurements from a rotation sensor and an accelerometer can be used to determine relative motion in space (e.g., determine whether the rotatable device is moving up or down, or whether it is just "sleeping" in the case where the two actions have similar rotation speeds). The position on the string and the direction of motion on the string can be determined based on the measured RPM and / or measurements of the time of flight sensor.

[0026] Any sensor used to detect RPM should be able to detect at least 2,500 RPM, and should more preferably be able to detect at least 8,000 RPM. Any sensor used to collect acceleration data should preferably be able to detect a force of at least 4G. Any sensor used to collect angular velocity should be able to detect at least 2,000 degrees / second.

[0027] The optical reflection sensor can be used to determine the RPM of the yo-yo 200, 210 by detecting each time the rope on which the yo-yo 200, 210 rotates passes through the sensor. In one embodiment, the photoelectric sensor may include a light emitter and a light detector. The light emitter and the light detector may be contained in a single module, or may be separate (for example, in different housings of the yo-yo 200, 210). The light emitter emits light detected by the light detector, and when the light emitter and the light detector are located in opposite housings and opposite to each other, the light is detected directly, or when the light emitter and the light detector are in the same module, the light is detected in the form of reflection of the light from the opposite housing. The emitted light may be able to transmit through the housing itself, or the housing may include windows at positions corresponding to the light emitter and the light detector. When the yo-yo 200, 210 rotates around one end of the rope, the rope passes through the path of the light, thereby interrupting the detection of the light by the light detector. Each interruption of the light corresponds to one rotation of the yo-yo 200, 210. To minimize the noise impact of ambient light on the light detector, the photosensor may be positioned as close to the axis as possible; and / or the light emitted and detected by any optical sensor may belong to the invisible spectrum so as not to be confused with any ambient light.

[0028] The time-of-flight sensor may similarly utilize an emitter and detector supporting electromagnetic waves (e.g., ultrasound, radio frequency, microwave, infrared, or other light), or otherwise utilize a radar effect, wherein the emitted waves are reflected from the ground (or a similar stationary object) and then detected. Given the known propagation speed of the wave, the distance between the ground (or a similar stationary object) and the yo-yo 200, 210 may then be determined based on the time between the emission of the wave and the detection of the wave. Thus, the time-of-flight sensor enables the spatial position and spatial movement of the yo-yo 200, 210 (e.g., moving up or down along a rope, or sleeping at a determined height) to be determined. To ensure that the emitted waves are directed toward the ground, the emitter may be controlled based on the output of an accelerometer, gyroscope, or similar sensor. In other words, the output of such a sensor may be processed (at the yo-yo 200, 210 or a corresponding computing device 202, 212) to determine the relative rotational orientation of the yo-yo 200, 210. When it is determined that the rotational orientation of the yo-yo 200, 210 causes the wave emitter to face the ground, the wave emitter may be controlled to emit a wave pulse. In some embodiments, the time of flight sensor may be integrated with the light reflectance sensor.As with the light reflectance sensor, the housing may allow light or similar transmitted waves to pass through, or a window may be provided in the housing.

[0029] Movement can also be determined based on a position sensor that can determine the actual position of the yo-yo 200, 210 or the relative position of the yo-yo 200, 210 relative to a reference object (e.g., a player's hand or a fixed sensor). This position as a function of time then represents the movement of the yo-yo 200, 210.

[0030] In some embodiments, the motion tracker may include one or more visually trackable points whose locations may be detected by a camera on the computing device 202, 212. Figure 3 (Example Figure 1 As seen in a side view / face of a housing of the yo-yo 100 of FIG. 1 , different visual elements are located on the outer surface of the body. By comparing the relative positions of these elements detected by the camera and their positions over time, six degrees of motion of the rotatable device can be tracked. For example, comparing Figure 3 The relative position of the star in between times t1 and t2 may indicate that the rotatable device has rotated 90 degrees.

[0031] In some embodiments, wearable devices such as smart watches, fitness trackers, rings, etc. include sensors that can be used to track the relative position of the yo-yo. For example, the yo-yo 200, 210 can be connected to a smart watch via Bluetooth, RF, NFC, IR (or similar light-based transmission), or a similar communication protocol, where the smart watch (or similar reference device) is located at a known location (e.g., the player's wrist). The distance and position between the smart watch and the yo-yo 200, 210 can be determined by analyzing the signals transmitted between the yo-yo 200, 210 and the smart watch. For example, the power of the signal received by the yo-yo 200, 210 or the wearable device can be inversely proportional to the distance between the two devices. In other embodiments, the time between sending a signal at the yo-yo 200, 210 or the wearable device and receiving the signal at the other device can be used to determine the distance based on the propagation speed of the signal. In other embodiments, the frequency analysis of the signal can indicate the relative speed and direction of the motion (e.g., like the Doppler effect). Thus, a location may be determined at the yo-yo 200, 210 or wearable device based on a signal received thereat and transmitted by the other of the yo-yo 200, 210 or wearable device. The wearable device may further communicate with the computing device 202, 212 and thus transmit any signal information and / or analysis to the computing device 202, 212 for further processing. In some embodiments, the wearable device may be the computing device 202, 212.

[0032] In some embodiments, magnetometers, Hall effect sensors, etc. can be used to determine the position of yo-yos 200, 210 based on the magnetic field strength at yo-yos 200, 210. In an example embodiment, the magnetic device can be worn on the player's hand (e.g., as part of a ring, smart watch, or other wearable device). Because the intensity of the corresponding field detected by the magnetometer in yo-yos 200, 210 is a function of the distance and orientation between the magnetometer and the magnetic device, the corresponding magnetic field signal from the magnetometer can be used to determine the position of yo-yos 200, 210 relative to the player's hand (or the position of the magnetic device). In addition, the magnetometer can be configured to collect information on multiple axes / dimensions. Therefore, the magnetometer can provide posture information about yo-yos 200, 210. In other embodiments, the magnetometer can detect the environmental magnetic field instead of the magnetic device worn by the player. Although the environmental field may be unknown, the relative changes detected by the magnetometer can still be used to identify relative posture information and its changes.

[0033] Based on the above, the yo-yo 200, 210 may first undergo calibration to establish a baseline between its current position and a reference object / position. For example, a baseline field or signal strength or power, transmission time, or similar parameter may be determined when the yo-yo 200, 210 is held in the player's hand (or otherwise at or near a reference position) and / or when the yo-yo is fully extended or at another known distance from the reference position.

[0034] Because the position information described above is relative to the position of a reference device, the motion of the reference device can also be inferred given the known motion of the yo-yo 200, 210. For example, an accelerometer can be used to determine that the yo-yo 200, 210 is "sleeping." Thus, any motion detected by the position sensor will correspond to the motion of the player's hand (or other position of the reference sensor). Determining such motion of the reference device can be useful for detecting stunts that require specific hand motions.

[0035] Sensors can also be configured for string-on-string identification. For example, in addition to any sensors that can be located at the periphery of the yo-yo 200, 210, one or more sensors (e.g., one to four optical sensors arranged at equal 90 degree intervals) can be set at the shaft area of ​​the yo-yo 200, 210. These sensors can be located on the portion of the shell that forms the hole, and the shaft enters the hole to be attached to the shell of the yo-yo 200, 210. The sensor can be an optical sensor facing the shaft (and the rope around the shaft) to detect the passage of the rope of the yo-yo 200, 210, similar to the RPM sensing discussed above. In some cases, the RPM data collected at the shaft may be more accurate than the data determined by the peripheral sensors. Such sensors located on the shaft can also detect the interaction of the rope with the shaft (or the rope still wrapped around the shaft). Detecting string-to-string interactions can help identify stunts where the yo-yo 200, 210 interacts with the string (e.g., overlays, or when the yo-yo rides the string as a rail, rather than wrapping around and around the string).

[0036] The weight of the sensor(s), transmitter, and other elements of the system are preferably evenly distributed in three dimensions on the yo-yo 200, 210. For example, the sensor(s) and transmitter may be evenly distributed by weight on both shells of the yo-yo 200, 210, or additional weight may be added to one shell of the yo-yo 200, 210. Preferably, the weight is also distributed angularly around the axis. By evenly distributing the weight, the yo-yo 200, 210 remains balanced and can be rotated appropriately.

[0037] Figure 4-Figure 7 An example structure of a yo-yo is illustrated in FIG. Figure 4An example yo-yo 400 is illustrated having an exploded view of the components contained within its housing 600. Figure 4 As seen in FIG. 6 , all elements are included in only one housing of the yo-yo 400 (or similar rotatable device). In particular, the housing 600 houses a power source (such as a coin cell battery) 402, a light reflection sensor 404, and a motherboard 406. Depending on the (one or more) sensors and transmitters used, the power source 402 may be a button cell, a thin film battery, a lithium ion battery, or a similar battery. In some embodiments, the battery may be rechargeable, for example, by the movement of the yo-yo 400 itself. In some embodiments, power may be passively supplied by communicating with the computing devices 202, 212, thereby eliminating the need for an integrated power source 402. The battery may be controlled by the motherboard 406 to supply power only when the powered sensor is used and during the communication time, thereby saving battery life.

[0038] For example, the motherboard 406 may be a printed circuit board on which a transceiver (e.g., a Bluetooth or BLE communication module), a multi-axis accelerometer array, a DC / DC converter (for converting the power level supplied by the power supply 402 into the power level required for powering other components), a USB connector, a processor, a memory, etc. are mounted or embedded as one or more integrated circuits mounted thereon. The memory may store data collected by the sensor and / or processed by the processor before (or after) transmission to a connected computing device. For example, data may be transmitted from the yo-yo 400 to the connected computing device only periodically (e.g., after a performance, a series of stunts, or a predetermined time period) to limit power consumption and increase battery life. Therefore, the sensor data may be stored in the memory between each transmission. For any or all data processing performed by the processor of the yo-yo, the processed data may also be stored in the memory of the yo-yo 400. The USB connector may be used to collect information stored in the memory, service the yo-yo 400 (e.g., upgrade the firmware of the processor, etc.), charge the battery, etc.

[0039] In addition, a side cover (secured by screws or with a snap fit) 408 covers the housing 600. The cover 408 may be removable to access the components housed within the housing 600 for maintenance, such as replacing a battery therein, such as the battery 402. Of course, other sensors may alternatively or additionally be included in the housing 600, either as distinct components (as with the optical reflectance sensor 404) or mounted on the mainboard 406 (as with a multi-axis accelerometer array).

[0040] Figure 5A cross-sectional view of a housing 600 of a yo-yo 400 is illustrated, the housing housing housing the elements discussed above. As seen therein, the power source 402, the light reflection sensor 404, and the main board 406 are generally arranged symmetrically about the axis 410. In other words, for any given radius of the axis 410, the weight of the elements housed in the housing 600 is as constant as possible. Figure 5 In a particular embodiment of the invention, the power source 402 is positioned so that its center of mass is as close as possible to a point on an axis extending through the center of the shaft 410 of the yo-yo 400. Thus, the power source 402 is rotationally balanced about the shaft 410. Similarly, although the centers of mass of the light reflective sensor 404 and the main board 406 are offset from the center of the shaft 410, their combined center of mass is preferably as close as possible to a point on an axis extending through the center of the shaft 410 of the yo-yo 400. Thus, because the light reflective sensor 404 and the main board 406 are at the same distance d from the center of the yo-yo 400, their combined weight remains as evenly distributed around the shaft 410 as possible.

[0041] like Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 6 , the power supply 402, light reflection sensor 404, motherboard 406, and any other components contained in the housing 600 may be supported by and / or mounted to protrusions 602 in the housing 600. These protrusions 602 may be integral with the housing 600 itself, for example, as part of a mold used to manufacture the housing 600. The weight of these protrusions 602 may also be considered when determining the total weight distribution of the components contained in the housing 600.

[0042] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a housing 700 of a yo-yo 400 is illustrated, the housing not housing the elements discussed above. Figure 7 The housing 700 does not include the power supply 402, the light reflection sensor 404, the main board 406, the protrusion 602 or other components, so the housing 700 includes a protruding ring 702 therein to Figure 6 The ring 702 preferably has a uniform density and is coaxial with the axis 410 of the yo-yo 400 so that it is rotationally balanced about the axis 410; and the ring 702 also preferably has a mass equal to the mass of the elements in the other housing 700 so that the total mass of each housing 700 (and the elements therein) is equal. Like the protrusion 602, the ring 702 can be integral with the rest of the housing 700.

[0043] refer to Fig. 9In some embodiments, the motherboard and / or other electronic components 902 discussed above may be disposed on an inner bearing 904 of the yo-yo 900. The inner bearing 904 may include a plurality of bearings 906 within a track 908 that is concentric with a hole 910 through which or into which the axis of the yo-yo extends. The inner bearing may be secured to the electronic components 902 and the housing shell of the yo-yo 900 in a manner that allows the yo-yo 900 to rotate freely without corresponding rotation of the electronic components 902 therein. In other words, any component statically mounted to or within the housing shell of the yo-yo 900 will rotate at the same rate as the yo-yo 900 itself. However, the inner bearing 904 allows the yo-yo 900 to rotate freely relative to any component 902 secured to the inner bearing 904. In other words, because the yo-yo 900 can freely rotate about the inner bearing 904, any component 902 that is fixed to the inner bearing 904 can also freely rotate about the inner bearing 904 and the yo-yo 900. Therefore, while the component 902 may still rotate due to the movement of the yo-yo 900, the rotation will not be at the same rate as the yo-yo 900 itself.

[0044] Using such a mounting configuration, the electronic components 902 described above do not necessarily require a high tolerance to acceleration and gravity. Therefore, cheaper electronic components 902 can be used, thereby reducing the cost of the yo-yo 900. Similarly, the processing of data collected using the sensor portion of the electronic components 902 will not necessarily require processing to compensate for the high RPM of the yo-yo 900. Therefore, the accuracy of the measurement can also be improved.

[0045] Although Fig. 9 The embodiment illustrated in the figure shows an inner bearing 904 that is separate and concentric with the hole 910, but other configurations are also contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the inner bearing 904 can directly surround the hole 910. In other words, the portion of the housing of the yo-yo 900 that defines the hole 910 can be used as the inner wall of the track 908 of the inner bearing 904. In other embodiments, the inner bearing 904 is not concentric with the hole 910. These embodiments can apply greater force and rotation to the attached components relative to the arrangement concentric with the hole 910, but are still significantly less than the embodiment in which the components are directly fixed to the yo-yo 900 without any bearings. Of course, combinations of the above configurations can also be used in the yo-yo 900. For example, some components can be arranged on bearings that are concentric with the hole 910, while other components are on bearings that are not concentric with the hole 910.

[0046] Reference again Figure 2, using the above information from the sensors of the yo-yo 200, 210, the associated computing devices 202, 212 and / or the server 230 can automatically identify and / or score different stunts performed by the player. For example, the dynamic attributes associated with each of the plurality of predefined stunts can be stored in a database accessible to each computing device 202, 212 and / or server. For example, the database can be stored remotely at the server 230. The stunts can then be identified by comparing the measurements at instantaneous points in time within the predefined time period with the measurements associated with each stunt stored in the database 230. In addition, by comparing the points in time when the stunts are identified, the time to transition between stunts can be determined.

[0047] In some embodiments, the player may introduce and record new stunts into database 230. For example, the player may enter parameters defining a stunt into computing device 202, 212; and once executed for confirmation (measured parameters match input parameters), the stunt may be stored in database 230. In a variation of this embodiment, if a stunt is performed and no comparable stunt is found in database 230, computing device 202, 212 may prompt the player to identify whether the stunt is new and should be stored in database 230.

[0048] Similarly, different quantitative levels of some or all of the parameters can be used to score each player's movements and tricks. For example, a low score level can be associated with a yo-yo that is measured to spin at less than 1,500 RPM, a medium score level can be associated with a spin between 1,500-3,000 RPM, and a high score can be associated with a spin at 3,000 RPM or more. A composite score can also be given by weighting the score and / or quantifying the levels associated with some or all of the measured parameters, and / or by calculating the score for a series of tricks.

[0049] The server 230 may also be configured to implement a machine learning system that is trained to receive measurements from the sensors of the yo-yos 200, 210 and output tricks and / or scores. Such a machine learning system may be trained using training data that includes measured parameters from the sensors of the yo-yos 200, 210 and known corresponding tricks performed by the yo-yos 200, 210 when the measurements were taken. The machine learning system may also be further continuously trained. For example, continuous training may be based on new measurements received from each yo-yo 200, 210, as well as indications from the players themselves indicating whether the machine learning system correctly identified the tricks and / or scores.

[0050] When the identified stunt has been performed and / or the desired score has been reached, the computing device may play an audible sound, a visual animation, etc. For example, a bell or a clock may sound to remind the player that they have successfully completed a stunt, or to reward the player for completing the stunt. Similarly, an animated fireworks display may be shown on the computing device to remind or reward the player for completing the stunt. When the player performs a difficult stunt and / or reaches a predetermined score level, they may be given a badge, etc. to indicate their skill level.

[0051] In some embodiments, an animation of the completed trick itself may be played by computing device 202, 212. For example, each player account may be associated with one or more avatars representing the player and a model of their yo-yo 200, 210. After a trick is completed, computing device 202, 212 may show an animation of the player's avatar performing the same trick using a modeled yo-yo.

[0052] Any of the above outputs (displays and sounds) may be shown on the computing device 202, 212 corresponding to the yo-yo 200, 210 performing the trick, and / or on any other player's computing device 202, 212. For example, an animation corresponding to a trick performed on player 1's yo-yo 200 may be shown on both player 1's and player 2's computing devices 202, 212. Different outputs may also be provided on each computing device 202, 212. For example, player 1's computing device 202 may display animated fireworks celebrating the completion of the trick, while player 2's computing device 212 may display a virtual animation of player 1's avatar completing the trick or a video of the actual recording of player 1 completing the trick. The outputs may also be provided by the central server 230 (or computing devices not connected to individual yo-yos) so that the outputs may be broadcast to spectators or others who do not have their own yo-yo 200, 210 and / or computing devices 202, 212. For example, spectators may view the display on their own computing devices 202, 212 remote from each player or at a central location (e.g., the playing field).

[0053] The history of each player's stunts can be stored locally at the player's computing device or yo-yo, or remotely at a central server (e.g., where the above-mentioned database is stored). In some embodiments, the historical information can be stored in an onboard memory at the yo-yo 200, 210 itself, additionally or alternatively. Therefore, players can track their historical progress, for example, to identify areas for improvement and help training. This information can also be used to determine the player's skills. For example, the skill level can be determined by comparing the history of the player's stunts. When determining the skill level, more weight can be given to newer stunts.

[0054] In some embodiments, the computing device can facilitate a training plan for each player. For example, the player can input their initial skill level and the desired skill level to the computing device. Based on these inputs, the computing device can recommend the goal of improving the player's skills as different stunts and / or different score levels. The player can also complete an initial assessment (e.g., a series of increasingly difficult stunts). The computing device can analyze which stunts the player can complete, and at which score level, to identify the player's initial skill level. The computing device can then start a training plan with different stunts and / or score levels to improve the player's skills based on the identified initial skills.

[0055] In addition, different players can "connect" to each other and view each other's completed stunts, including any animation associated with stunts, any badges granted to players, and their recognized skill levels. These connections can, for example, form communities between players based on skill levels, friendships, device types, geographic regions, schools, other predefined groups (e.g., those associated with clubs separated from the devices and systems described herein), etc. The players connected (e.g., player 1 and player 2) can also watch each other perform stunts in real time or almost in real time, or watch the stunts previously performed. When watching other players, the video of the player performing stunts can be captured by the camera (with or without audio) connected to the computing device 202, 212 of the player, and then the video stream is transmitted to other players watching and / or stored for later viewing (locally or remotely). Alternatively or additionally, the player watching can view the animation of the player's avatar performing stunts. These connections can also be promoted by third-party social networks and social media platforms. For example, players can directly share stunts, videos, etc. to another social media platform (e.g., FACEBOOK or INSTAGRAM).

[0056] In some embodiments, the computing device 202,212 and / or central server 230 of connection can promote the match between different players.For example, the referee can watch each player perform a series of stunts in a predetermined time period (by actual video or animated avatar), and distribute corresponding scores.In other cases, computing device 202,212 and / or central server 230 can distribute scores, as discussed above.The match can be divided according to the skill level determined by computing device 202,212 and / or central server 230, for example.In addition, "all-around" match can include all interested players, and some matches may be limited to specially invited players.In addition, or still in alternative embodiments, the match can be carried out in any one of the player communities described above.Except for the match, the leaderboard (for example, showing the highest score and stunt) across all players or in a given player community can also be maintained by central database 230, and can be viewed by the player connected.

[0057] In some embodiments, scores (and / or leaderboards), visual animations corresponding to stunts, etc. may be displayed on a central display (e.g., a projector) at the location of the game. The central display may be directly controlled by the central server 230 (or a portion thereof), connected to the central server 230, and / or individually connected to each of the computing devices 202, 212. In this way, displays associated with the game and yo-yo performance may be individually shown to the crowd on their own computing devices 202, 212, rather than to the players. Similarly, each spectator in the crowd may view such a game on their own computing devices. For example, the audience may remotely watch the game on a personal laptop or cell phone by connecting to the central server 230. Such remote viewers may view the same output (e.g., visual animations, sounds, camera video / images) as the players and spectators at the game.

[0058] In addition to competition, players can also participate in multiplayer or single-player games via computing devices 202, 212 and / or central server 230. In some cases, these games can be competitive. For example, a single-player game may include a "trick roulette" in which a player must complete a randomly selected (one or more) stunt in order to advance. Other games may be based on speed challenges, such as scoring players based on the time it takes for a player to complete a predetermined number of stunts, or scoring players based on the number and / or difficulty of stunts completed within a predetermined time period. Multiplayer games may be based on a concept similar to "HORSE" in basketball, in which each player challenges another player to complete a stunt. Other games may score players based on their ability to perform stunts within a musical or visual rhythm presented to the player by a computing device. Still other games may be action / adventure oriented. For example, these games may require players to perform stunts to shoot lasers at oncoming enemies, where the game is visualized on a computing device. In some embodiments, hitting a particular enemy may require performing a predetermined stunt and / or performing a stunt in a predetermined direction (e.g., toward the enemy as seen in a perspective view displayed on a computing device), wherein the direction of the stunt is detected by the device's sensor. In addition, a "fighting" type of game may allow one player to control or otherwise affect the action of another player's yo-yo. For example, if the first player is able to perform a given stunt and / or obtain a sufficiently high score, the actuator in the second player's yo-yo may be controlled accordingly to destroy their ability to perform the stunt or a different stunt (e.g., by causing the second player's yo-yo to vibrate, rotate at an undesirable speed or direction, flash, make noise, etc.). In this type of game, for example, two or more players may "fight" each other until one is no longer able to control their yo-yo. Similarly, the game may start with a yo-yo that is difficult to control due to the actuator (one or more) therein, and one or more players may stabilize their yo-yos individually or work together to win the game.

[0059] In addition, the yo-yo may include one or more actuators, such as motors, clutches, lights, speakers, etc., that can be controlled by the computing devices 202 and 212. Preferably, one or more actuators are embedded in the yo-yo with uniform weight distribution, as described above with respect to the power supply 402, the light reflection sensor 404, and the motherboard 406. In this way, the player can input the desired action (e.g., rotation speed) to the computing devices 202 and 212. The computing devices 202 and 212 can then send a signal to the receiver (or transceiver) of the yo-yo, which can be processed and used to command one or more actuators to perform the desired action. Such actions of the yo-yo controlled by the computing devices 202 and 212 can be used, for example, to help the player train or complete a stunt. One or more actuators can also provide rewards for completing a stunt, for example, by making the yo-yo light up and / or make a sound.

[0060] Each player can also access the e-store via computing devices 202, 212 and their player accounts. In the e-commerce portal, players can purchase equipment and accessories, access keys to unlock limited games (or game levels / features) or similar activities, animations and / or players' avatars and / or customized visualizations of animation equipment (e.g., "skins") and / or similar features of applications and / or unique equipment. In some cases, these purchases may only be available through computing devices 202, 212 (via applications) and will not be otherwise available to the public. Players can also be awarded money for use in the e-store by reaching specific skill levels (e.g., performing given stunts, reaching given score levels, completing given games, winning competitions, etc.). Coupons or vouchers for tangible purchases (e.g., new yo-yos, modifications or upgrades for rotatable equipment, etc.) may also be provided to players.

[0061] Figure 8 Example user interface elements that a yo-yo 800 may include are illustrated. In some embodiments, the yo-yo 800 has one or more buttons 802 and one or more display devices 804 on its housing. Figure 8 In the embodiment of FIG. 8 , these elements are shown on a face surface 806 of the housing of the yo-yo 800 .

[0062] Button 802 may be mechanical, electrical, capacitive, infrared, etc. Button 802 may be configured to control power to yo-yo 800, control wireless data communications (e.g., pairing) with other yo-yos or computing devices, control recording of data from one or more of the sensors, control video or audio recording from the yo-yo or a connected computing device (e.g., causing the computing device to take a “selfie” of the player), select a trick that the player is attempting, control the display of display device 803, or otherwise control the activity of yo-yo 800 and / or receive input from a player or other user of yo-yo 800.

[0063] Although such functions can be performed by controlling the Yo-Yo 800 through the connected computing device, the button 802 allows the Yo-Yo to be controlled independently of any connection to the computing device. In other words, all the above-discussed features of the Yo-Yo can be performed in standalone mode. When the connection with the computing device is reestablished, any recorded information (or information processed at the Yo-Yo) can then be synchronized after the play. For example, a player can perform a series of competition stunts when operating the Yo-Yo in standalone mode without being connected to any computing device. Button 802 can be used to perform any control of the Yo-Yo required by the player. In such an embodiment, the Yo-Yo records the motion information described above and performs any processing thereon. After performing the stunt, the Yo-Yo can be connected to the computing device, and then the recorded and / or processed motion information is uploaded to the computing device for further processing, as discussed above. Once at the computing device, the series of stunts can be scored and processed as part of the game.

[0064] Display 804 can be, for example, one or more discrete LED lights, LCD or OLED displays, etc. In some embodiments, any number of colors, light intensity, light duration, shape, text, symbol, icon and / or any combination thereof can be displayed on display 804. Display 804 can be configured to display the power state of yo-yo 800, the connection state of yo-yo 800 with the computing device, information about the connected computing device, the data recording state of yo-yo 800, the motion and / or stunt information (e.g., score information) of yo-yo 800, the graphics of any game played using yo-yo 800 and / or any of the previously discussed computing device displays. Display 804 can also display information for connecting yo-yo to the computing device. For example, a user can use button 802 to put yo-yo in "pairing" mode for connecting to a computing device, and display 804 can display the corresponding pairing code when in pairing mode, or display a list of available devices that yo-yo can be paired with. Button 802 can then be used to scroll the list of available devices. In some embodiments, display 804 can display the aforementioned QR code.

[0065] The features described above are not intended to be limiting, but may be combined in any manner. For example, depending on the embodiment, the data from the sensors and processed data discussed above may be stored in any or all of the yo-yo, computing device, and remote server / database. Similarly, the outputs discussed above may be provided on any or all connected computing devices. In addition, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the rotatable devices explicitly mentioned. On the contrary, the features described above may be applicable to any toy that can perform stunts.

Claims

1. A system comprising: A yo-yo, comprising: two housings connected by a shaft; and a sensor housed in one of the two housings, a first sensor configured to measure a parameter associated with the motion of the yo-yo; Reference equipment; and A processor is configured to determine the position of the yo-yo relative to the reference device based on a signal transmitted between the yo-yo and the reference device or based on a magnetic field strength between the yo-yo and the reference device.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the reference device is a wearable device.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the reference device is a ring, and the processor is configured to determine the position of the yo-yo relative to the ring based on the magnetic field strength of the ring detected at the yo-yo.

4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the reference device is a smart watch, and the processor is configured to determine the position of the yo-yo relative to the smart watch based on power, flight time, or phase shift of a signal transmitted between the yo-yo and the smart watch.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the processor is housed in the yo-yo. The system of claim 1 , wherein the processor is housed in the reference device.

7. The system according to claim 1, The yo-yo also includes: the processor; Memory; as well as transmitter, and The processor is further configured to: When the yo-yo is not in wireless communication with a computing device, collecting the measured parameters related to the movement of the yo-yo from the sensor and storing the collected measured parameters in the memory; as well as After establishing wireless communication with an external computing device, the transmitter transmits the stored measured parameters to the computing device. The system of claim 7 , wherein the reference device is the computing device.

9. The system of claim 7, wherein the yo-yo, the reference device, and the computing device are separate devices and all communicate wirelessly with each other.

10. A method comprising: measuring a parameter related to the motion of the yo-yo using a sensor housed in a housing of the yo-yo, the yo-yo comprising a housing connected by an axis; as well as The position of the yo-yo relative to the reference device is determined by: determining the power, flight time or phase shift of a signal transmitted between the yo-yo and the reference device, or The magnetic field strength of the reference device at the yo-yo is determined.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the reference device is a ring and the position of the yo-yo is determined based on the determined magnetic field strength of the reference device at the yo-yo.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein the reference device is a smart watch, and the position of the yo-yo is determined based on the power, flight time, or phase shift of the signal transmitted between the yo-yo and the smart watch.

13. The method according to claim 10, further comprising: storing the measured parameters in a memory of the yo-yo when the yo-yo is not in wireless communication with a computing device; as well as After wireless communication is established with an external computing device, the stored measured parameters are transmitted to the computing device. The method of claim 13 , wherein the computing device is the reference device.

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