Pistol simulation assembly using virtual reality controller

Abstract

A pistol simulation assembly that cooperates a virtual reality (VR) controller with a trigger finger button with a pistol grip and a trigger in order to better simulate the feeling of a typical pistol in a VR environment. The pistol simulation assembly includes a pistol body having a docking bracket designed to receive and hold a VR controller. The pistol body comprises a trigger conversion sub-assembly and a magazine release sub-assembly, the trigger conversion sub-assembly is used for converting motion of a trigger pulling piece into translational motion so as to press a trigger finger button of the VR controller, and the magazine release sub-assembly is used for converting pressing of a magazine release button into translational motion so as to press a side button of the VR controller. By cooperating a commercially available VR controller with a realistic pistol grip and trigger, a user of the pistol simulation assembly is provided with a more realistic pistol experience while in a VR environment.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 419,999, filed on October 27, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0003] The primary appeal of virtual reality (VR) games is their ability to immerse users in the game world. When playing VR shooter games, users typically hold a VR controller in their hands and click buttons on the controller with their fingers. However, this fails to provide a realistic shooting experience, as VR controllers are not specifically designed for shooter games. Especially in VR environments designed to simulate real-world shooting experiences, using plastic VR controllers to simulate a pistol falls far short of the desired experience for professionals or semi-professionals. Such VR environments include virtual target ranges for training or competition, or virtual training environments that allow professionals like police officers or the military to safely engage in various tactical situations. Even when using a VR headset that fully takes over their field of view, holding a controller without the weight or feel of a pistol or other handheld weapon can result in a disjointed VR experience and suboptimal user training. Therefore, there is a need for a VR controller accessory that can simulate the feel of holding and using a real pistol while translating user inputs on the accessory into appropriate inputs on the VR controller, typically manufactured by major consumer electronics companies. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] The embodiments of the pistol simulation assembly described herein may be better understood by referring to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals indicate identical or functionally similar elements.

[0005] Figure 1A and 1B 1 is a side view and an isometric view of a pistol simulation assembly according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0006] Figure 2 yes Figure 1A An exploded isometric view of a partially exploded part of the pistol simulation assembly.

[0007] Figure 3 yes Figure 1A An exploded isometric view of a portion of the trigger conversion subassembly of the pistol simulation assembly.

[0008] Figure 4A 、 4B and 4C is Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the trigger conversion subassembly of the pistol simulation assembly.

[0009] Figure 5 yes Figure 1AAn exploded isometric view of a portion of the butt bracket and bracket locking subassembly of the pistol simulation assembly.

[0010] Figure 6A and 6B In disengaged and engaged positions respectively Figure 1A A side view of the butt bracket of the pistol simulation assembly.

[0011] Figure 7 is in the disengaged and engaged position in the pistol body Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the docking bracket of the pistol simulation assembly and a partially exploded view of the bracket locking subassembly.

[0012] Figure 8A and 8B yes Figure 1A An isometric view of the magazine release conversion subassembly of the pistol simulation assembly.

[0013] Figure 9A and 9B 1 and 2 are an isometric view and a side view, respectively, of a pistol simulation assembly according to another embodiment of the present technology.

[0014] Figure 10 yes Figure 9A An exploded isometric view of a partially exploded part of the pistol simulation assembly.

[0015] Figure 11 yes Figure 9A An exploded isometric view of a portion of the bracket subassembly of the pistol simulation assembly.

[0016] Figure 12A and 12B They are Figure 9A Front and rear isometric views of the magazine and slide release subassemblies of a pistol mockup assembly.

[0017] Figure 13A and 13B They are Figure 9A Isometric and side views of the magazine weight of a pistol simulation assembly.

[0018] Figure 13C yes Figure 9A Rear isometric view of the pistol grip of the pistol simulation assembly.

[0019] Figure 14 is an isometric view of a firearm simulation assembly according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0020] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A partially exploded isometric view of the gun simulation components.

[0021] Figure 16A and 16B They are Figure 14 Partially exploded front and rear isometric views of a lip member of a firearm simulation assembly.

[0022] Figure 17A 、 17B and 17C is Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the trigger conversion subassembly of the firearm simulation assembly.

[0023] Figure 18A and 18B They are Figure 14 Front isometric and rear views of the magazine release arm of the firearm simulation assembly.

[0024] The titles provided herein are for convenience only and do not necessarily affect the scope or meaning of the claimed embodiments. In addition, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the sizes of some elements in the drawings may be enlarged or reduced to help improve understanding of the embodiments. In addition, although the disclosed technology is suitable for various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail below. However, it is not intended to limit the described embodiments. On the contrary, the embodiments are intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the scope of the embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] This article discloses a pistol simulation assembly that combines a virtual reality (VR) controller with a trigger finger button with a pistol grip and trigger to better simulate the feel of a typical pistol in a VR environment. The pistol simulation assembly includes a pistol body with a grip and a trigger plate positioned at the lower portion of the body. The upper portion of the pistol body includes a docking bracket designed to receive and hold a third-party VR controller, such as the Meta Quest™ VR controller manufactured by Meta Platforms, Inc. (formerly Facebook, Inc.). The VR controller can be oriented with the trigger finger button facing downward. The pistol body includes a trigger conversion subassembly that converts the horizontal translational motion of the trigger plate puller into a vertical translational motion to depress the VR controller's trigger finger button. A tensioning mechanism is incorporated into the trigger conversion subassembly to simulate the feel of trigger resistance found in a physical pistol. By combining a commercially available VR controller with a realistic pistol grip and trigger, users of the pistol simulation assembly are provided with a more realistic pistol experience while in a VR environment.

[0026] In some embodiments, the firearm simulation assembly includes a firearm assembly frame and an interchangeable firearm body detachably connected to the firearm assembly frame. The firearm assembly frame engages and supports the VR controller and houses functional components such as the trigger shifter subassembly and the magazine release shifter subassembly. The interchangeable firearm body can have a shape and weight balance corresponding to various types of firearms (e.g., pistols, rifles, shotguns, etc.). The interchangeable firearm body can be swapped with another firearm body to match the type of firearm used in the VR space.

[0027] The various features of the pistol simulation assembly introduced above will now be described in further detail. The following description provides specific details for a thorough understanding and implementation of the description of these examples. However, those skilled in the relevant art will understand that the technology discussed herein can be practiced without many of these details. Similarly, those skilled in the relevant art will also understand that the technology may include many other features not described in detail herein. In addition, some well-known structures or functions may not be shown or described in detail below to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the relevant description. For the purpose of simplifying the discussion, the pistol simulation assembly will be described herein with reference to the top and bottom, upper and lower, above and below, and / or left or right sides of the spatial orientation relative to the embodiment shown in the figures. However, it should be understood that the pistol simulation assembly can be moved to and used in different spatial orientations without changing the structure of the system.

[0028] The terms used below are to be interpreted in their broadest reasonable manner, even when used in conjunction with the detailed description of some specific examples of the embodiments. In fact, some terms may even be emphasized below; however, any term that is intended to be interpreted in any restricted manner will be clearly and specifically defined in this section.

[0029] Figure 1A and 1B 1 is a side view and an isometric view of a pistol simulation assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. The pistol simulation assembly 100 includes a pistol grip 10, a pistol body 15, a docking bracket 20, and a bracket locking subassembly 25. The pistol body 15 includes a trigger guard 30 and a trigger plate (or "trigger") 35 extending from a lower portion of the pistol body. The pistol body 15 also includes a magazine release button 40 located adjacent to the trigger 35. The pistol grip 10, trigger guard 30, trigger 35, and magazine release button 40 can be manufactured with materials, finishes, and a feel similar to those of an operating pistol.

[0030] The pistol body 15 is configured to support a VR controller 45 manufactured by a third party, such as the Meta Quest Pro™, Meta Quest 2™, or Meta Quest 3™ sold by Meta Platforms, Inc., the Pico 4™ sold by Pico Immersive Pte., or other similar controllers. When entering a virtual environment, the user typically wears a VR headset (to cover the user's eyes) and holds the VR controllers in their left and right hands. Application software running on the VR headset and a connected computer server generates different VR environments for the user to explore and interact with. The user controls movement and actions within the VR environment based on the movements of the VR headset and the motion, button, and joystick controls included on the VR controller. As will be described in further detail herein, the VR controller 45 is secured to the top of the pistol body 15 via the operation of a docking bracket 20. The docking bracket is annular and is designed to fit around the grip of the VR controller 45 to secure one end of the VR controller. The other end of the VR controller 45 is secured by a lip 50 formed on the pistol body 15. The VR controller 45 generally has a trigger finger button 45a provided on the front of the VR controller and operated by the user's index finger, a side button 45b provided on the side of the VR controller and operated by the user's thumb, and a grip 45c for the user to hold.

[0031] As about Figure 8A and 8B As described, in some embodiments, the pistol simulation assembly 100 also has a magazine release conversion assembly that converts a user's push on the magazine release button 40 into a push on the side button 45b via an arm 55 that extends upward to a position adjacent to the side button. When paired with appropriate virtual reality application software, pressing the side button 45b can be interpreted as starting the reloading process of the pistol within the virtual reality application.

[0032] In some embodiments, the pistol simulation assembly 100 also includes a recoil simulator 60 secured to the front of the pistol body 15. The recoil simulator 60 is a battery-powered device that, when triggered by a Bluetooth or other wireless signal from a linked VR software application, generates a recoil that simulates the feeling of firing a bullet from a physical pistol. Recoil simulators are commercially available from companies such as ProTubeVR, which sells the ProVolver, which incorporates such a recoil simulator. TM Haptic VR pistol.

[0033] The pistol simulation assembly 100 advantageously allows a user to view and / or access a control panel (e.g., including a joystick and other input buttons) while holding the pistol simulation assembly 100, such as when pointing the pistol simulation assembly 100 forward during a VR gaming session. Furthermore, while the illustrated embodiment depicts a left-hand controller, those skilled in the art will appreciate that select components of the pistol simulation assembly 100 described herein may be inverted and / or rearranged to support a right-hand controller.

[0034] Although Figure 1A and 1B One configuration of the pistol simulation assembly 100 is depicted in FIG, but it should be understood that different configurations of the pistol simulation assembly can be manufactured to simulate the feel or configuration of different types of pistols or long guns. Different pistol grips, triggers, recoil simulators, etc. can be selected to reflect different types of physical guns available in the real world, and different materials, finishes, and overall assembly weights can be selected to make the pistol simulation assembly closely resemble the feel of a physical gun. In this way, Figure 1A and 1B The particular configuration depicted in is merely representative of how the pistol simulation assembly 100 may actually look.

[0035] Figure 2 FIG1 is a partially exploded isometric view of the pistol simulation assembly 100, depicting the various components and subassemblies coupled to the pistol body 15. A channel 65 is formed in the upper portion of the pistol body 15. The channel 65 is sized to receive the lower portion of the docking bracket 20. The docking bracket 20 is secured in the channel 65 via the bracket locking subassembly 25. Figure 5 The yoke lock subassembly 25 is described in more detail. The pistol body 15 is coupled to the recoil simulator 60 at the front of the body by bolts or other fasteners, and the body is also coupled to the pistol grip 10 at the bottom by bolts or other fasteners. The grip may include a compartment 70 for a counterweight for simulation purposes. By selecting different counterweights, the weight of the pistol simulation assembly can be configured to match the weight of various different types of physical pistols.

[0036] One of the significant challenges in pairing a physical gun configuration with a VR controller is translating typical pistol actions (such as pulling the trigger or ejecting a magazine) into appropriate inputs for a controller that has a different configuration and a different button feel than a physical gun. To perform one type of translation, the pistol simulation assembly 100 includes a trigger translation subassembly 300 that translates a user's pull force on the trigger 35 into a push force on the trigger finger button 45a. The operation of the trigger translation subassembly 300 will be Figure 3 and Figure 4A 4C , which is described in additional detail. The trigger conversion subassembly 300 is located inside the pistol grip 10 where the trigger 35 is located and the trigger finger button 45a is located.

[0037] Figure 3 3 is a partially exploded side view of the trigger conversion subassembly 300, which converts trigger motion into a push force on the trigger button of the VR controller in the pistol simulation assembly 100. The trigger conversion subassembly 300 includes a camshaft 310 and a cam 305 rotatably mounted on the camshaft 310. The cam 305 includes a first portion 305a configured to be moved by the trigger 35, a second portion 305b configured to engage the tensioning mechanism, and a third portion 305c configured to push the trigger button of the VR controller. The function of each portion of the cam 305 is further described below. The tensioning mechanism coupled to the cam 305 includes a rod 315, a spring 320, a fixture 325, and a block 330. The tensioning mechanism is attached to the cam 305 via a pin 335, which engages a corresponding receiving hole on portion 310b of the cam 305.

[0038] The trigger 35 is movable in a horizontal direction when pressed by a user. As the trigger moves, the rear end 35a of the trigger contacts the first portion 305a of the cam 305. The force applied to the first portion 305a of the cam 305 causes the cam 305 to rotate about the cam shaft 310, which is fixed in place relative to the pistol simulation assembly 100. As the cam 305 rotates in a clockwise direction about the cam shaft 310, the second portion 305b and the third portion 305c of the cam move at the same rotational rate. The second portion 305b of the cam 305 is rotatably connected to the rod 315 via a pin 335. The rod 315 is also connected to the cam 305 via a spring 320, which applies a force to push the rod 315 away from the cam 305. In some embodiments, the spring 320 is housed within the cam 305, such as Figure 4A 4C . When assembled, the rod 315 rests on the fixture 325 of the block 330, and both are fixed in place relative to the pistol simulation assembly 100. The rod 315 has a notch 315a that is urged against the fixture 325 due to the force from the spring 320. As the cam 305 moves through its range of motion (due to the movement of the trigger 35), the shape of the rod 315 causes the pull weight on the trigger 35 felt by the user to change. By reference to Figure 4A 、 4B The operation of the tensioning mechanism can be best understood with 4C.

[0039] Figure 4A 、 4B 4C are cross-sectional views of the trigger conversion subassembly 300 depicting the subassembly in three different positions: an initial (neutral) position, an intermediate position, and an end (final) position. Figure 4A The subassembly 300 is shown when the trigger 35 is not pulled and is in its neutral position. Figure 4AAs shown, when in the neutral position, the fixture 325 contacts the rod 315 of the tensioning mechanism at a point approximately midway along the notch 315a. The rod 315 is biased against the fixture 325 by the operation of the spring 320, which applies an urging force to the rod 315. The fixture 325 can be made of a wear-resistant material, such as stainless steel or Delrin™ manufactured by DuPont.

[0040] When a user wishes to fire the pistol simulation subassembly 100, they pull the trigger 35 (eg, using their index finger), moving it in a direction toward the pistol grip. Figure 4B The subassembly is depicted in an intermediate position, wherein the trigger has been partially pulled by the user so that it has moved a first distance 405. When partially pulled, the rear end 35a of the trigger 35 contacts and pushes the first portion 305a of the cam 305, thereby rotating the cam 305 in a clockwise direction about the cam shaft 310 (which is fixed in place). This rotation also causes the second portion 305b and the third portion 305c of the cam 305 to move clockwise relative to the cam shaft 310. Due to the connection between the second portion 305b of the cam and the rod 315 by the pin 335 and the bias applied by the spring 320, the rod 315 also moves with the cam 305. As shown in FIG. Figure 4B As shown, the rod 315 of the tensioning mechanism has been moved so that in the intermediate position, the securing device 325 contacts the rod 315 at a point further along the notch 315a. Because the notch 315a has an increased slope at the contact point, the user requires more force to move the trigger 35. The notch 315a is shaped so that the required force simulates the variable trigger resistance of a physical pistol. In some embodiments, the notch has a different shape than the embodiment shown.

[0041] As the cam 305 rotates clockwise, the third portion 305c of the cam 305 also rotates relative to the cam shaft 310. The third portion 305c contacts and pushes the trigger finger button 45a of the VR controller 45. In the illustrated embodiment, the trigger finger button 45a is in direct contact with the third portion 305c of the cam 305. In this case, the surface of the first portion 305a of the cam 305 can be coated with a thin aluminum or other conductive coating, as some VR controllers have capacitive sensors to distinguish between the touch of a human finger and the touch of an inanimate object. In other embodiments, the contact can be indirect. In either case, the trigger conversion subassembly 300 is configured to push the trigger finger button 45a when the trigger 35 is pulled by the user. As Figure 4B As shown, the trigger finger button 45a has moved a second distance 410 by a partial pull of the trigger 35. Figure 4B The dotted trigger finger button in the figure represents the original trigger finger button position, as shown in Figure 4AIt will be appreciated that the first distance 405 and the second distance 410 may be the same or different distances based on the geometry of the cam 305 and the lengths of the first and third portions 305a, 305c of the cam.

[0042] FIG4C depicts the subassembly in its final (end) position, wherein the trigger has been fully pulled by the user, moving it a third distance 415. As shown in FIG4C , the tensioning mechanism's rod 315 has moved such that, in the final position, the fixture 325 contacts the rod 315 at a point outside the notch 315a. Once the fixture 325 has completed its travel within the notch 315a, the user no longer needs to make further changes to move the trigger 35. This position simulates the feel of a trigger on a physical pistol after firing. Also shown in FIG4C , the trigger finger button 45a has moved a fourth distance 420 by fully pulling the trigger 35. Movement of the trigger finger button 45a causes the corresponding pistol in the virtual environment to fire under the control of the application software in the VR environment. By adjusting the geometry of the cam 305, movement of the trigger finger button 45a is designed to trigger the firing of the corresponding pistol in the virtual environment simultaneously or nearly simultaneously with the change in the feel of the trigger 35.

[0043] return Figure 3 In some embodiments, the trigger conversion subassembly 300 further includes a safety mechanism that allows the user to switch the pistol simulation assembly 100 to a "safe" position in which the pistol cannot be fired. The safety mechanism includes a safety stop 350, a safety switch spring 355, and a safety switch 360. The user can use the safety stop 350, the safety switch spring 355, and the safety switch 360 to switch the safety system between an on position and a off position. When the safety mechanism is in the on position, the safety stop 350 blocks the rotation of the cam 305, so that the trigger 35 cannot be pulled. Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B The operation of the safety mechanism can be better understood by referring to FIG4C . In FIG4C , the user has applied the safety by pressing the safety switch 360 downward, which causes the safety stop 350 to contact a portion of the cam 305. In the applied position, the safety stop 350 prevents movement of the cam 305, freezing the position of the trigger and preventing the user of the pistol simulation assembly 100 from firing the VR pistol. Figure 4A and 4B In the released position, the safety switch 360 has been released by the user, which causes the safety stop 350 to be removed from contact with a portion of the cam 305. In the released position, the movement of the cam 305 is unimpeded, allowing the user of the pistol simulation assembly 100 to use the trigger in normal operation. Figure 4A-4C) biases the safety so that the safety mechanism is normally in the released position, requiring user interaction to apply the safety when desired.

[0044] Figure 5 FIG3 is a partially exploded isometric view of the docking bracket 20 and bracket locking subassembly 25 of the pistol simulation assembly 100. The docking bracket 20 has an upper portion 20a and a lower portion 20b. The upper portion 20a is configured to fit around the grip of the VR controller 45. VR controllers 45 are typically asymmetrical, meaning the left controller grip is shaped for use with the user's left hand, while the right controller grip is shaped for use with the user's right hand. For the pistol simulation assembly 100, it has been determined that a left-handed controller mates better with the pistol simulation assembly 100. Thus, the upper portion 20a is configured to wrap around the grip portion of a left-handed controller. However, the upper portion 20a and simulation assembly 100 can be adjusted to allow operation with a right-handed controller as well. The lower portion 20b of the docking bracket 20 is configured to slide within the channel 65 of the pistol body 15. The lower portion 20 b of the docking bracket is formed with a cavity 365 configured to receive the bracket locking subassembly 25 , which secures the docking bracket 20 in the channel 65 .

[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, the carriage locking subassembly 25 includes a threaded shaft 370, a first wedge 375a, a second wedge 375b, and a compression mechanism 380. In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft 370 is threaded on one end, and the compression mechanism 380 is a correspondingly threaded butterfly nut sized to attach to the end of the shaft 370. In other embodiments, the carriage locking subassembly 25 can be a different type of fastener assembly.

[0046] Figure 6A and 6B 1 is a side view of the pistol simulation assembly 100 depicting the operation of the bracket 20 to secure the VR controller 45 to the pistol body 15. The bracket 20 is movable between an unengaged position, in which the VR controller 45 can be removed from the pistol simulation assembly 100, and an engaged position, in which the VR controller 45 is secured to the pistol simulation assembly 100. Figure 6A The docking bracket 20 is shown in an unengaged position. In the unengaged position, the docking bracket 20 has been slid forward in the channel 65 toward the recoil simulator 60. Moving the docking bracket 20 forward allows the grip 45c of the VR controller to be lifted upward and outward, away from the pistol body 15, and separated from the pistol simulation assembly 100. Doing so allows the VR controller to be recharged, replaced, or used for other purposes without the pistol simulation assembly. Instead, Figure 6BThe docking bracket 20 is shown in an engaged position. In the engaged position, the docking bracket 20 has been slid rearwardly in the channel 65, away from the recoil simulator 60. Moving the docking bracket 20 rearwardly causes the grip 45c of the VR controller to be surrounded by the bracket 20. The movement of the docking bracket 20 also causes the top of the VR controller 45 to press against the lip 50 of the pistol body 15. The lip 50 is formed with a slight hook or other protrusion that prevents the top of the VR controller 45 from separating from the pistol simulation assembly 100. Once the docking bracket 20 has been moved to the engaged position, the bracket locking subassembly 25 can be tightened to secure the position of the docking bracket 20, as shown. Figure 7 shown.

[0047] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the pistol body 15, the lower portion 20b of the docking bracket 20, and a partially exploded view of the bracket locking subassembly 25 of the pistol simulation assembly 100. As previously described, the docking bracket 20 is movable relative to the pistol body 15 between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The bracket is retained in the channel 65 by operation of the shaft 50. The shaft extends through the cavity 365 of the bracket 20 and is secured to the pistol body 15 as will be further described herein. When in the engaged position, the shaft 50 is in the locking portion 705 of the cavity 365. When in the disengaged position, the shaft 50 is in the travel portion 710 of the cavity 54. Figure 7 In the embodiment of the present invention, the shaft 50 is shown in dashed lines at the locking portion 705 of the cavity and the shaft is shown in solid lines at one end of the travel portion 710 of the cavity. However, it should be understood that the shaft 50 can be located at other locations in the cavity 365, depending on how far the docking bracket 20 slides along the channel 65.

[0048] When the bracket 20 has been moved to the engaged position, the bracket locking subassembly 25 is used to secure the bracket in that position. To secure the bracket, the compression mechanism 380 is tightened to move the first wedge 375a and the second wedge 375b toward each other, thereby clamping the lower portion 20b of the docking bracket 20 therebetween. In some embodiments, the tightening mechanism 380 is a threaded thumb screw and the shaft 50 has a complementary threaded end. Rotating the tightening mechanism thereby causes the wedges to move inward. In the depicted embodiment, the lower portion 20b of the docking bracket is formed with a first angled receiving surface 715a and a second angled receiving surface 715b, each of which is angled to complement the corresponding first wedge 375a and second wedge 375b and is configured to cooperatively engage the corresponding first wedge 375a and second wedge 375b. In other words, the compression mechanism 380 biases the first wedge 375a and the second wedge 375b against the first and second angled receiving surfaces 715a and 715b. The first and second wedges 375a and 375b also fit into recesses 720 formed on either side of the pistol body 15, thereby securing the position of the locking subassembly 25 on the pistol body 15. The use of directional wedges and complementary receiving surfaces on the docking bracket is advantageous for at least two reasons. When the compression mechanism 380 is tightened, the docking bracket is slightly pushed rearward by the pressure of the wedges on the receiving surfaces, thereby improving the proper position capture of the docking bracket 20 with the VR controller 45. Furthermore, when the compression mechanism is released, any forward movement of the docking bracket 20 in the channel 65 tends to force the wedges outward, releasing the docking bracket 20. The depicted configuration allows the docking bracket 20 to be secured in place relative to the pistol body 15 and secure the VR controller 45.

[0049] Figure 8A and 8BThis is an isometric view of the magazine release switching subassembly 800 of the pistol simulation assembly 100. The magazine release switching subassembly 800 includes the magazine release button 40, an arm 55, and a spring assembly 725 with an internal spring (not shown). The magazine release button 40 has a neutral position and a pushed position. The spring assembly 82 biases the magazine release button 40 toward its neutral position. The arm 55 is coupled to the magazine release button 40 and extends to a position adjacent to the side button 45b of the VR controller 45. When the user pushes the magazine release button 40, the arm 55 moves in the same direction without rotating. The distal end of the arm 55 contacts the side button 45b of the VR controller 45, and when the magazine release button 40 moves to its pushed position, the distal end of the arm 55 pushes the side button 45b. The spring assembly 725 simulates or is equivalent to the magazine release system used in a physical pistol. When the magazine release button is pushed back to its neutral position by the spring, the distal end of the arm 55 releases the side button 45b. The magazine release conversion subassembly 800 is located within the pistol grip 10 where the magazine release button 40 is located and the pistol body 15 where the side button 45b is located.

[0050] Figure 9A and 9B Figures 1 and 2 are isometric and side views, respectively, of a pistol simulation assembly 900 according to another embodiment of the present technology. The pistol simulation assembly 900 includes a pistol grip 910, a pistol barrel 912, a pistol body 915, a bracket subassembly 920, and a biasing member 934 (e.g., an elastic band) wrapped around the bracket subassembly 920. The pistol grip 910 includes a magazine release button 940 and a trigger plate (or "trigger") 935 extending from the upper portion of the pistol grip 910. The pistol barrel 912 can accommodate a recoil simulator (e.g., recoil simulator 60). The pistol body 915 includes a slide release button 960 located near the trigger 935. The pistol grip 910, pistol barrel 912, pistol body 915, trigger 935, magazine release button 940, and slide release button 960 can be manufactured with materials, finishes, and a feel similar to those found on an operating pistol.

[0051] The pistol body 915 and the cradle subassembly 920 are configured to support a VR controller 945 manufactured by a third party, such as the Meta Quest Pro™, Meta Quest 2™, or Meta Quest 3™ sold by Meta Platforms, Inc., the Pico 4™ sold by Pico Immersive Pte. Ltd., or other similar controllers. As will be described in further detail herein, the cradle subassembly 920 includes a donut-shaped or ring-shaped member designed to fit around the grip of the VR controller 945 to secure one end of the VR controller 945. The other end of the VR controller 945 is secured by a lip member 950 formed on the pistol body 915. The VR controller 945 generally has a trigger finger button 945a disposed on the front of the VR controller and operated by the user's index finger, and a side button 945b disposed on the side of the VR controller and operated by the user's thumb.

[0052] As about Figure 12A and 12B As described, in some embodiments, the pistol simulation assembly 900 further includes a magazine release arm 955 and a slide release arm 964 that extend upward to a position adjacent to the side button 945b. The magazine release arm 955 and the slide release arm 964 convert a user's push force on the magazine release button 940 and the slide release button 960, respectively, into a push force on the side button 945b. When paired with appropriate virtual reality application software, pressing the side button 945b can be interpreted as initiating a reloading process for the pistol within the virtual reality application.

[0053] As about Figure 13A and 13B As described, in some embodiments, the pistol simulation assembly 900 further includes a magazine weight 970 that can drop when the magazine release button 940 is pressed to simulate the feeling of a real magazine dropping. The magazine weight 970 can be at least partially stored within the pistol grip 910, and the pistol grip 910 can be configured with an opening 917 through which the magazine weight 970 protrudes, extends, and / or drops.

[0054] The pistol simulation assembly 900 advantageously allows a user to view and / or access a control panel (e.g., including a joystick and other input buttons) while holding the pistol simulation assembly 900, such as when pointing the pistol simulation assembly 900 forward during a VR gaming session. Furthermore, while the illustrated embodiment depicts a left-hand controller, those skilled in the art will appreciate that select components of the pistol simulation assembly 900 described herein may be inverted and / or rearranged to support a right-hand controller.

[0055] Although Figure 9A and 9BOne configuration of the pistol simulation assembly 900 is depicted in FIG, but it should be understood that different configurations of the pistol simulation assembly can be manufactured to simulate the feel or configuration of different types of pistols or long guns. Different pistol grips, triggers, recoil simulators, etc. can be selected to reflect different types of physical guns available in the real world, and different materials, finishes, and overall assembly weights can be selected to make the pistol simulation assembly closely resemble the feel of a physical gun. In this way, Figure 9A and 9B The specific configuration depicted in is merely representative of how the pistol simulation assembly 900 may actually look.

[0056] Figure 10 FIG2 is a partially exploded isometric view of a pistol simulation assembly 900, depicting the various components and subassemblies coupled to a pistol body 915. The pistol body 915 is coupled to the pistol barrel 912 at the front of the body 915 via bolts or other fasteners, and the body 915 is also coupled to the pistol grip 910 at the bottom via at least one bolt or other fastener. The grip 910 may include a compartment 919 for accommodating a magazine weight 970. By selecting different magazine weights 970, the weight and balance of the pistol simulation assembly 900 can be configured to match the weight and balance of various different types of physical pistols or other firearms.

[0057] The pistol simulation assembly 900 includes a trigger conversion subassembly 948, which can be used in the same manner as described above with respect to Figure 3 and Figure 4A -4C operates in substantially the same manner as the trigger conversion subassembly 300 described above. Therefore, the description of the trigger conversion subassembly 948 is omitted so as not to obscure the novel aspects of the pistol simulation assembly 900. The pistol simulation assembly 900 also includes a magazine and slide release subassembly 952, which includes a magazine release arm 955 and a slide release arm 964 ( Figure 9A and 9B ). The magazine and slide release subassembly 952 operates independently of the trigger conversion subassembly 948 when disposed adjacent to the trigger conversion subassembly 948 and with respect to Figure 12A and Figure 12B Described in further detail.

[0058] Figure 11 9 is a partially exploded isometric view of the bracket subassembly 920. The bracket subassembly 920 includes a docking bracket 922, a fastener 932, a bracket cover 926, a slide member 928, and a biasing member 934. The docking bracket 922 has a ring that is configured to receive a virtual reality controller 945 and hold the virtual reality controller 945 in a fixed position relative to the pistol body 915. The fastener 932 is configured to releasably secure the docking bracket 922 to the pistol body 915 and the lip member 950. The shape and operation of the docking bracket 922 and the fastener 932 are respectively similar to those described above with respect to Figure 5The docking bracket 20 and bracket locking subassembly 25 are described as being substantially identical. Therefore, a description of the docking bracket 922 and fastener 932 is omitted to avoid obscuring the novel aspects of the bracket subassembly 920. However, unlike the docking bracket 20, the docking bracket 922 includes a rod 924 configured to fit within an opening 925 of a bracket cover 926. When assembled, the rod 924 and opening 925 form a hinge about which the bracket cover 926 can pivot relative to the docking bracket 922. A sliding member 928 includes an aperture 929 configured to receive a protrusion 927 (e.g., a fastener) on the bracket cover 926, and an arm 930 that extends to a position adjacent to the joystick of the virtual reality controller 945 when the virtual reality controller 945 is seated in the docking bracket 922. The protrusion 927 and the hole 929 are sized so that the protrusion 927 can slide forward (toward the barrel 912) or rearward (toward the pistol grip 910) in the hole 929. In the embodiment shown, the arm 930 includes a distal end having a curvature that conforms to the shape of a virtual reality controller joystick.

[0059] When assembling the bracket subassembly 920, as shown Figure 9A 、 9B 10 , the bracket cover 926 is disposed between the docking bracket 922 and the sliding member 928. A biasing member 934 can be positioned around the docking bracket 922 and the sliding member 928 (e.g., around the arm 930) to maintain the sliding member 928 in a neutral position (forward position) on the bracket cover 926. That is, the biasing member 934 pushes or pulls the sliding member 928 forward so that the protrusion 927 is positioned toward the end of the hole 929 closest to the arm 930. When the virtual reality controller 945 is secured in the bracket subassembly 920, the bracket cover 926 and the sliding member 928 are pivoted about the rod 924 to a vertical orientation, the virtual reality controller 945 is inserted into the ring of the docking bracket 922, and then the bracket cover 926 and the sliding member 928 can be pivoted back to a horizontal orientation (e.g., horizontal orientation). Figure 9A and Figure 9B shown).

[0060] When the pistol simulation assembly 900 is in use (e.g., for playing a VR shooting game), the sliding member 928 can be pulled by the user to simulate a manual slide release. The sliding member 928 is movable between a neutral position and a pulled position. When in the neutral position, the sliding member 928 is in a position relative to the docking bracket 922. Figure 9A 、 9B10 , whereby protrusion 927 is positioned toward the end of arm 930 closest to hole 929. In the neutral position, arm 930 does not push against the joystick of virtual reality controller 945. When in the pulled position, sliding member 928 is in a more rearward position, whereby protrusion 927 is positioned toward the end of arm 930 farthest from hole 929. In the pulled position, arm 930 pushes against the joystick of virtual reality controller 945. Biasing member 934 is configured to bias sliding member 928 toward the neutral position, such that once a user pulls sliding member 928 to the pulled position and then releases sliding member 928, sliding member 928 automatically returns to the neutral position due to the return force applied by biasing member 934. In some embodiments, fastener 927 and hole 929 define the maximum displacement of sliding member 928 relative to docking bracket 922 as sliding member 928 moves between the neutral position and the pulled position. The maximum displacement may be set to prevent damage to the joystick of the virtual reality controller 945, which may result if the sliding member 928 moves too far backward.

[0061] Figure 12A and 12B 960, a first biasing member 968 (e.g., a compression spring) disposed between the slide release button 960 and the pistol body 915; a magazine release button 940; a magazine release arm 955 coupled to the magazine release button 940; and a second biasing member 956. The lower portion of the magazine release arm 955 may include a hook 954, which will be referred to below. Figure 13A and Figure 13B Described in further detail.

[0062] Both the slide release arm 964 and the magazine release arm 955 extend to a position adjacent to the side button 945b of the virtual reality controller 945. The slide release button 960 is rotatably connected to the pistol body 915 via the shaft 962, and when a downward force is applied to the release button 960, the slide release button 960 can move between a neutral position and a depressed position (e.g., via rotation in the direction R1). When an inward force is applied to the magazine release button 940, the magazine release button 940 can also move between a neutral position and a depressed position (e.g., via linear motion L1). The shape and operation of the magazine release button 940, the magazine release arm 955, and the second biasing member 956 are similar to those described above with respect to Figure 8A and 8BThe magazine release conversion subassembly 800 shown and described is substantially the same. Therefore, the description of the magazine release button 940, the magazine release arm 955 and the second biasing member 956 is omitted to avoid obscuring the novel aspects of the subassembly 952.

[0063] When the pistol simulation assembly 900 is in use (e.g., for playing a VR shooting game), the user can press the magazine release button 940 to simulate a magazine release. Figure 8A and Figure 8B As described above, fully pressing the magazine release button 940 (i.e., via linear motion L1) causes the first distal end 955a of the magazine release arm 955 to move inward (e.g., via linear motion A1) and push the side button 945b of the virtual reality controller 945 to a first depression level. When pressure on the magazine release button 940 is removed, the second biasing member 956 returns the magazine release button 940 to a neutral position. The slide release button 960 can be pressed by the user to simulate a manual slide release. Fully pressing the slide release button 960 causes the slide release arm 964 to push the side button 945b of the virtual reality controller 945 to a second depression level. In the depicted embodiment, the slide release arm 964 directly pushes the side button 945b. In some embodiments, the slide release arm 964 pushes the first distal end 955a of the magazine release arm 955 (i.e., the side release arm 964 overlaps the first distal end 955a of the magazine release arm 955), thereby indirectly pushing the side button 945b. The first biasing member 968 can be configured to bias the slide release button toward a neutral position.

[0064] The first compression level (corresponding to magazine release button 940) can be set to be different from the second compression level (corresponding to slide release button 960). For example, the maximum rotation angle of slide release button 960 about axis 962 and / or the moment arm between axis 962 and slide release arm 964 can be designed so that the first compression level is greater than the second compression level. When paired with appropriate virtual reality application software, pressing side button 945b to the first compression level can be interpreted as releasing the pistol's magazine within the virtual reality application, while pressing side button 945b to the second compression level can be interpreted as releasing the pistol's slide within the virtual reality application. In some embodiments, the second compression level is between 10% and 40% of the first compression level (e.g., 15%, 26%, 33%). In some embodiments, to account for differences between different pistol simulation components and / or virtual reality controllers, the virtual reality application software can run a calibration operation to measure the first and second compression levels by requiring the user to fully press magazine release button 940 and slide release button 960 independently. As the user presses each button, the application software reads the corresponding first and second compression levels. The application software uses the read amount of depression to set a corresponding threshold value that will be used to determine whether the magazine release button 940 or the slide release button 960 is subsequently pressed.

[0065] Figure 13A and 13B They are an isometric view and a side view of the magazine weight 970. Figure 12A and Figure 12B As discussed, the lower portion of the magazine release arm 955 includes a hook 954. The upper portion of the magazine weight 970 includes a recess 972 configured to receive the hook 954 and a lip 974 configured to contact and engage the hook 954. When the magazine release button 940 is in the neutral position, as shown Figure 13A As shown, hook 954 engages lip 974 to suspend magazine weight 970 from pistol grip 910 (e.g., Figure 13C When the magazine release button 940 is moved to the depressed position, the magazine release arm 955 translates horizontally, causing the hook 954 to move away from the lip 974 while the magazine weight 970 remains stationary due to the inner wall of the pistol grip 910. As a result, when the magazine release button 940 is in the depressed position, the hook 954 no longer engages the lip 974 and the magazine weight 970 is able to move in direction A2 ( Figure 13B ) falls (due to gravity) through the pistol grip 910.

[0066] Figure 13C917 is a rear isometric view of the pistol grip 910. The compartment 919 is at least partially defined by the first guide portion 914a, the second guide portion 914b, and the stop 916. In the illustrated embodiment, the first guide portion 914a and the second guide portion 914b are separated by a distance to define a gap 913 therebetween. The magazine weight 970 slides into the compartment 919 of the pistol grip 910. When the magazine release button 940 is pressed and the magazine weight 970 begins to fall, the magazine weight 970 slides downward through the compartment 919 and the opening 917. As the magazine weight 970 descends, the fins or tabs 976 ( Figure 13B ) slides downward through gap 913. When tab 976 reaches stop 916, stop 916 prevents magazine weight 970 from falling more than a predetermined distance. In other words, the action of tab 976 and stop 916 prevents magazine weight 970 from being removed from pistol grip 910. Pistol grip 910 may include other stopping mechanisms to prevent magazine weight 970 from falling out of the pistol grip.

[0067] When the pistol simulation assembly 900 is in use (e.g., for playing a VR shooting game), the falling of the magazine weight 970 simulates the feeling of a real magazine falling. The mass of the magazine weight 970 and the predetermined distance of the drop can be configured to produce a realistic feeling of a magazine drop. Moreover, by preventing the magazine weight 970 from falling completely from the compartment 919, the stopper 916 prevents any injuries that may occur due to the magazine weight 970 falling (e.g., falling on the user's feet) and facilitates returning the magazine weight 970 to its original position.

[0068] To reload a new magazine within a VR game, the user can simply tap or push the magazine weight 970 back to its original position. The hook 954 may include a curvature that allows the lip 974 to push the hook 954 horizontally (and thus the magazine release arm 955) when the magazine weight 970 is pushed upward. Once the magazine weight 970 has returned to its original position, the second biasing member 956 causes the hook 954 to rebound to reengage the lip 974, as shown in FIG. Figure 13A When paired with appropriate virtual reality application software, tapping or pushing the magazine weight 970 upward can be detected via built-in sensors (e.g., accelerometers) of the virtual reality controller 945 and can be interpreted as a new magazine reload within the VR game.

[0069] Figure 14FIG1 is an isometric view of a firearm simulation assembly 1400 according to an embodiment of the present technology. Firearm simulation assembly 1400 includes a firearm assembly frame 1422, an interchangeable firearm body 1410 removably connected to firearm assembly frame 1422, a trigger 1432a, and a magazine release button 1440 slidably coupled to interchangeable firearm body 1410. Firearm assembly frame 1422 has an annular portion 1420 configured to engage and support a third-party manufactured virtual reality controller 1445, such as the Meta Quest Pro™, Meta Quest 2™, or Meta Quest 3™ sold by Meta Platforms, Inc., the Pico 4™ sold by Pico Immersive Pte. Ltd., or other similar controllers. Firearm simulation assembly 1400 also includes a magazine release arm 1455 operably coupled to magazine release button 1440 and extending to a position adjacent to a side button 1445b of virtual reality controller 1445.

[0070] The gun simulation assembly 1400 advantageously allows a user to view and / or access a control panel (e.g., including a joystick and other input buttons) while holding the gun simulation assembly 1400, such as when pointing the gun simulation assembly 1400 forward during a VR gaming session. Furthermore, while the illustrated embodiment depicts a right-handed controller, those skilled in the art will appreciate that selected components of the gun simulation assembly 1400 described herein can be inverted and / or rearranged to support a left-handed controller.

[0071] Figure 15 14 is a partially exploded isometric view of the firearm simulation assembly 1400. The firearm simulation assembly 1400 also includes a fastener 1412, a lip member 1450, and a trigger conversion subassembly 1430 at least partially positioned in the firearm assembly frame 1422 and the interchangeable firearm body 1410. The fastener 1412 is configured to removably connect the interchangeable firearm body 1410 to the firearm assembly frame 1422. That is, the fastener 1412 can be inserted through corresponding holes in the firearm assembly frame 1422 and the interchangeable firearm body 1410 to couple the frame 1422 to the body 1410. The lip member 1450 is used to engage and support the virtual reality controller 1445 on the rear portion 1424 opposite the annular portion 1420 of the firearm assembly frame 1422. Figure 16A and 16B The operation of the lip member 1450 is described in further detail. The trigger conversion subassembly 1430 includes a trigger 1432a. The components and operation of the trigger conversion subassembly 1430 are described below with respect to 17A to 17C Described in further detail.

[0072] While the interchangeable gun body 1410 in the illustrated embodiment has a shape corresponding to a pistol, other interchangeable gun bodies may have shapes corresponding to other types of guns (e.g., rifles, shotguns, etc.). When the gun simulation assembly 1400 is in use (e.g., for playing a VR shooting game), the interchangeable gun body 1410 may be replaced with another interchangeable gun body to match the type of gun used in the VR game to provide a more realistic gaming experience. For example, if a user is shooting a shotgun in a VR game, but is holding a Figure 14 and 15 , the differences between the two types of guns (e.g., weight, balance, grip style, recoil level) can result in a separate VR experience. Therefore, it is advantageous to have various types of gun bodies that can be easily swapped out depending on the type of gun used within the VR game. Furthermore, the gun assembly frame 1422 can continue to engage and support the virtual reality controller 1445 and the trigger conversion subassembly 1430 (and other functional components), so that the user does not need to reconfigure and / or re-secure any other items (e.g., the virtual reality controller 1445) each time the interchangeable gun body 1410 is replaced.

[0073] Figure 16A and Figure 16B 14. The figures are front and rear isometric views, respectively, of a partially exploded portion of a lip member 1450 having a corresponding fastener 1448 with a threaded end and a biasing member 1444 (e.g., a spring). In the illustrated embodiment, the lip member 1450 includes two lip portions 1451 sized to receive the end of the virtual reality controller 1445. The lip member 1450 also includes a first opening 1453a and a second opening 1453b defining a passage extending therebetween along the dashed axis shown. The first opening 1453a has a smaller diameter than the second opening 1453b, such that the passage includes a first passage portion closer to the first opening 1453a and a second passage portion closer to the second opening 1453b and having a larger diameter than the first passage portion. The lip member 1450 includes an inner annular wall 1456 located at the junction between the first and second channel portions and substantially perpendicular to the dashed axis shown. The inner annular wall 1456 has an inner diameter corresponding to the first channel portion and an outer diameter corresponding to the second channel portion.

[0074] The diameter of the second opening 1453b is larger than the diameter of the head of the fastener 1448 so that the second channel portion is sized to receive both the fastener 1448 and the biasing member 1444. When the firearm simulation assembly 1400 is assembled, the lip member 1450 is positioned at the rear portion 1424 ( Figure 15 ) is movably coupled to the firearm assembly frame 1422 at a position 1454. More specifically, the fastener 1448 is coupled to the rear portion 1424 via a threaded end, with the fastener 1448 disposed in the channel and the biasing member 1444 disposed in the first channel portion and compressed between the head of the fastener 1448 and the inner annular wall 1456.

[0075] Lip member 1450 is movable between a receiving position and a clamping position, and biasing member 1444 biases lip member 1450 toward the clamping position. Lip member 1450 is positioned closer to gun assembly frame 1422 when in the clamping position than when in the receiving position. When a user is fastening virtual reality controller 1445 to gun assembly frame 1422, virtual reality controller 1445 can be partially inserted into annular portion 1420 of gun assembly frame 1422 and the user can manually pull lip member 1450 away from gun assembly frame 1422 (e.g., in direction A3) to the receiving position. When doing so, inner annular wall 1456 moves toward the head of fastener 1448 while fastener 1448 remains stationary relative to gun assembly frame 1422, thereby further compressing biasing member 1444 therebetween. Once the virtual reality controller 1445 is in place, the user can release the lip member 1450 to allow the biasing member 1444 to push the inner annular wall 1456 (e.g., in direction A4) and return the lip member 1450 to a gripping position, thereby securing the virtual reality controller 1445. The lip member 1450 allows the virtual reality controller 1445 to be easily inserted and removed, for example, when the virtual reality controller 1445 needs to be recharged.

[0076] Figure 17A 、 17B17C are cross-sectional views of trigger conversion subassembly 1430. Subassembly 1430 includes a pusher arm 1426 rotatably coupled to gun assembly frame 1422, a pusher arm shaft 1428 about which pusher arm 1426 rotates, a trigger cam 1432, and a trigger cam shaft 1434 attached to gun assembly frame 1422 and about which trigger cam 1432 rotates. The distal end 1426a of pusher arm 1426 is positioned near trigger finger button 1445a of virtual reality controller 1445. The distal end 1426a of pusher arm 1426 contacts and pushes the trigger finger button of virtual reality controller 1445. To improve detection of force applied to the trigger finger button, the surface of distal end 1426a of pusher arm 1426 can be coated with a thin layer of aluminum or other conductive coating, as some VR controllers have capacitive sensors to distinguish between touch by a human finger and touch by an inanimate object. In other embodiments, contact can be indirect. In either case, the trigger conversion subassembly 1430 is configured to push the trigger finger button of the VR controller 1445 when the trigger is pulled by the user.

[0077] The trigger cam 1432 includes a first portion having a trigger 1432a, a second portion 1432b having a cavity 1435, and a third portion 1432c that contacts the pusher arm 1426 near the distal end 1426a. The functions of each portion of the trigger cam 1432 are described further below. The subassembly 1430 also includes a tensioning mechanism comprising a rod 1436, a first biasing member 1446 (e.g., a spring), and a securing device 1442. The rod 1436 is rotatably coupled to the second portion 1432b of the trigger cam 1432 via a pin 1438 and includes a notch 1436a. The first biasing member 1446 is coupled between the second portion 1432b near the trigger cam shaft 1434 and the rod 1436. The securing device 1442 is fixedly coupled to the firearm assembly frame 1422. The subassembly 1430 also includes a second biasing member 1444 (eg, a spring) compressed between the trigger cam 1432 and the firearm assembly frame 1422 .

[0078] Figure 17A 、 17B and 17C show the subassembly 1430 in three different positions: the initial (neutral) position ( Figure 17A ), middle position( Figure 17B ) and terminal (final or pulled) position ( Figure 17C ). Figure 17A The trigger 1432a is shown when it has not been pulled and is in its neutral position (e.g., Figure 141436a). The fixture 1442 contacts the rod 1436 of the tensioning mechanism at a point approximately midway along the notch 1436a. The rod 1436 is biased against the fixture 1442 by operation of a first biasing member 1446, which applies a pushing force to the rod 1436. The fixture 1442 can be made of a wear-resistant material, such as stainless steel or Delrin™ manufactured by DuPont. In some embodiments, the pusher arm 1426 is not biased in any direction, such that the pusher arm 1426 rests on top of the third portion 1432c (e.g., by gravity). The second biasing member 1444 can bias the trigger cam 1432 toward Figure 17A Neutral position shown offset.

[0079] When the user wishes to fire the firearm simulation subassembly 1400, they pull the trigger 1432a (eg, using their index finger), causing the trigger cam 1432 to rotate in the direction R2. Figure 17B The subassembly 1430 is depicted in an intermediate position, wherein the trigger 1432a has been partially pulled by the user. Due to the coupling of the pin 1438 between the second portion 1432b of the trigger cam 1432 and the rod 1436 and the bias applied by the first biasing member 1446, the rod 1436 also moves with the trigger cam 1432. Figure 17B As shown, the tensioning mechanism's rod 1436 has been moved so that, in the intermediate position, the retaining device 1442 contacts the rod 1436 at a point further along the notch 1436a. Because the notch 1436a has an increased slope at the point of contact, the user requires greater force to move the trigger 1432a. The notch 1436a is shaped so that as the point of contact between the notch 1436a and the retaining device 1442 changes, the force required to squeeze the trigger 1432a simulates the trigger resistance of a real pistol. In some embodiments, the notch 1436a has a different shape than that shown.

[0080] When the trigger cam 1432 rotates in the R2 direction, the third portion 1432c of the trigger cam 1432 moves upward, pushing the distal end 1426a of the pusher arm 1426 upward and rotating the pusher arm 1426 in a counterclockwise direction (e.g., in the R3 direction, opposite to the R2 rotation). The distal end 1426a of the pusher arm 1426 pushes the trigger finger button 1445a of the virtual reality controller 1445. The trigger finger button 1445a can be in direct or indirect contact with the pusher arm 1426. In some embodiments, the surface of the distal end 1426a of the pusher arm 1426 is coated with a thin aluminum or other conductive coating, because some virtual reality controllers have capacitive sensors to distinguish between the touch of a human finger and the touch of an inanimate object. Figure 17B As shown, when the trigger 1432a is pulled, the pusher arm 1426 rotates. Figure 17B The dotted pusher arm and dotted trigger in represent the original pusher arm and trigger positions, respectively. Figure 17A shown)

[0081] Figure 17C The subassembly 1430 is depicted in an end (final or pulled) position, wherein the trigger 1432a has been fully pulled by the user. Figure 17C As shown, the rod 1436 of the tensioning mechanism has been moved so that in the final position, the fixture 1442 contacts the rod 1436 at a point outside the notch 1436a. Once the fixture 1442 has completed travel past the notch 1436a, no further changes are required by the user to move the trigger 1432a. Such a position simulates the feel of a trigger on a physical pistol after firing. Figure 17C As shown, when the trigger 1432a is fully pulled, Figure 17B In comparison, pusher arm 1426 rotates even further. ( Figure 17C The dotted pusher arm and dotted trigger in represent the original pusher arm and trigger positions, respectively. Figure 17A ) By adjusting the geometry of the trigger cam 1432, depressing the trigger finger button 1445a via the distal end 1426a of the pusher arm 1426 is intended to trigger the firing of the firearm within the VR game simultaneously or nearly simultaneously with the corresponding change in feel of the trigger 1432a. After pulling the trigger 1432a, the user can then release the trigger 1432a, causing the second biasing member 1444 to rotate the trigger cam 1432 back to its neutral position, as shown. Figure 17A shown.

[0082] Figure 18A and 18B 14. Figures 14 and 14 are front isometric and rear views, respectively, of the magazine release button 1440 and magazine release arm 1455. The magazine release arm has a first distal end 1455a extending to a position adjacent to a side button 1445b of the virtual reality controller 1445 and a second distal end 1455b proximal to the magazine release button 1440. In the illustrated embodiment, the magazine release button includes a recess 1441 configured to receive the second distal end 1455b of the magazine release arm 1455. The magazine release arm 1455 is rotatably coupled to the firearm assembly frame 1422 via an axis 1452 coupled between the first distal end 1455a and the second distal end 1455b. A biasing member 1454 (e.g., a spring) is coupled between the magazine release arm 1455 and the firearm assembly frame 1422.

[0083] When the firearm simulation assembly 1400 is in use (e.g., for playing a VR shooting game), the user can press the magazine release button 1440, causing it to move from a neutral position to a pressed position to simulate a magazine release. When pressed, the magazine release button 1440 translates within the interchangeable firearm body 1410 in direction A5, pushing against the second distal end 1455b and exerting a torque on the magazine release arm 1455. This torque causes the magazine release arm 1455 to rotate about axis 1452 in direction R4, causing the first distal end 1455a to move toward and depress a side button 1445b of the virtual reality controller 1445. When paired with appropriate virtual reality application software, pressing the side button 1445b can be interpreted as releasing the firearm's magazine within the virtual reality application. When the user releases the magazine release button 1440 , the biasing member 1454 pushes against the magazine release arm 1455 and returns the magazine release button 1440 to the neutral position.

[0084] The invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details of the preferred embodiment shown and described, and it will be understood that changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, although springs are generally disclosed in the specification as the biasing mechanism, it will be understood that other biasing mechanisms may be used, such as rubber bumpers, rubber bands, or other mechanical equivalents.

[0085] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the details of the above-described embodiments may be changed without departing from the basic principles of the present disclosure. In some cases, well-known structures and functions are not shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the embodiments of the present technology. Although the steps of the method may be presented in a particular order herein, alternative embodiments may perform the steps in a different order. Similarly, certain aspects of the present technology disclosed in the context of a particular embodiment may be combined or eliminated in other embodiments. In addition, although advantages associated with certain embodiments of the present technology may have been disclosed in the context of those embodiments, other embodiments may also exhibit such advantages, and not all embodiments must exhibit such advantages or other advantages disclosed herein to fall within the scope of the present technology. Therefore, the present invention and associated technologies may encompass other embodiments not explicitly shown or described herein, and the present invention is not limited except by the appended claims.

[0086] Reference herein to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "some embodiments," or similar expressions means that a particular feature, structure, operation, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of the present technology. Therefore, the appearances of such phrases or expressions herein do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, various particular features, structures, operations, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0087] The disclosure set forth above is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that any claim require more features than are expressly recited in that claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of any single foregoing disclosed embodiment in combination.

[0088] For convenience, the present technology is illustrated below by way of example according to various aspects described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.). These are provided as examples and do not limit the present technology. It should be noted that any of the dependent clauses can be combined in any combination and placed into the corresponding independent clause. Other clauses can be presented in a similar manner.

Claims

1. A pistol simulation assembly for a virtual reality controller having a trigger finger button, the pistol simulation assembly comprising: pistol grip; a pistol body connected to the pistol grip, the pistol body having a trigger disposed at a lower portion and a bracket for holding a virtual reality controller at an upper portion; and A trigger conversion subassembly, for converting the movement of the trigger to the trigger finger button of the virtual reality controller, the trigger conversion subassembly comprising: a camshaft, which is connected to the pistol body; a cam rotatably mounted on the cam shaft, the cam comprising a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion, wherein the first portion of the cam contacts the trigger and the third portion of the cam contacts the trigger finger button of the virtual reality controller; and a tensioning mechanism coupled to the second portion of the cam; The user's movement of the trigger causes the cam to rotate around the cam shaft and press the trigger finger button of the virtual reality controller, and the tensioning mechanism generates a variable resistance to the rotation of the cam.

2. The pistol simulation assembly of claim 1 , wherein the trigger conversion subassembly further comprises a safety subassembly configured to switch between an open position and a closed position, wherein the safety subassembly prevents the cam from rotating when in the open position and allows the cam to rotate when in the closed position.

3. The pistol simulation assembly of claim 2, wherein the safety subassembly includes a spring and a stopper configured to contact the cam when the safety subassembly is in the open position.

4. The pistol simulation assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The tensioning mechanism comprises: a lever having a notch, wherein the lever is rotatably coupled to the second portion of the cam; a spring disposed between the cam and the rod; and A securing device is coupled to the pistol body and contacts the notch of the rod.

5. A firearm simulation assembly for a virtual reality controller having a trigger button, the firearm simulation assembly comprising: a gun assembly frame configured to engage and support the virtual reality controller; and a trigger conversion subassembly, at least partially positioned within the firearm assembly frame, the trigger conversion subassembly for converting a trigger pull force to the trigger button of the virtual reality controller, the trigger conversion subassembly comprising: a pusher arm rotatably coupled to the firearm assembly frame and extending to a position adjacent the trigger button of the virtual reality controller; a trigger cam rotatably coupled to the firearm assembly frame, the trigger cam comprising a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion, wherein the first portion of the trigger cam is configured to receive the trigger pull, wherein the second portion of the trigger cam includes a cavity, and wherein the third portion of the trigger cam contacts the pusher arm; and a tensioning mechanism coupled to the second portion of the trigger cam, the tensioning mechanism comprising: a rod having a notch, wherein the rod is rotatably coupled to the second portion of the trigger cam; a spring disposed in the cavity of the second portion of the trigger cam, the spring being compressed against the rod; and a securing device coupled to the firearm assembly frame and in contact with the notch of the rod; The trigger pull force rotates the trigger cam from a neutral position to a pulled position, causing the third portion of the trigger cam to rotate the pusher arm and depress the trigger button of the virtual reality controller, and the tensioning mechanism generates resistance to the rotation of the trigger cam.

6. The firearm simulation assembly of claim 5, the trigger conversion subassembly further comprising a second spring compressed between the trigger cam and the firearm assembly frame, wherein the second spring biases the trigger cam toward the neutral position.

7. The firearm simulation assembly of claim 5, further comprising: a lip member sized to receive an end of the virtual reality controller, wherein the lip member includes a channel and an inner annular wall, wherein the lip member is movable along an axis between a receiving position and a clamping position, wherein the lip member is disposed closer to the firearm assembly frame in the clamping position than in the receiving position; a fastener coupled to the firearm assembly frame and at least partially disposed in the channel of the lip member; and A second spring is disposed between the fastener and the inner annular wall, wherein the second spring biases the lip member toward the clamped position.

8. The firearm simulation assembly of claim 5, further comprising: An interchangeable firearm body is configured to be removably coupled to the firearm assembly frame, wherein the trigger conversion subassembly is at least partially positioned within the interchangeable firearm body.

9. The firearm simulation assembly of claim 8, further comprising: a magazine release button slidably coupled to the interchangeable firearm body; and a magazine release arm rotatably coupled to the firearm assembly frame, the magazine release arm having a first distal end extending to a position adjacent a side button of the virtual reality controller and a second distal end proximate the magazine release button; Wherein, when the magazine release button moves from the neutral position to the pressed position, the magazine release button pushes the second distal end and causes the magazine release arm to rotate, so that the first distal end pushes the side button of the virtual reality controller.

10. The firearm simulation assembly of claim 9, further comprising a second spring coupled between the magazine release arm and the firearm assembly frame, wherein the second spring is configured to bias the magazine release arm toward the neutral position.

11. A pistol simulation assembly for a virtual reality controller having side buttons, the pistol simulation assembly comprising: a pistol body configured to support a virtual reality controller; a pistol grip coupled to the pistol body; a magazine release button on a side of the pistol body, wherein the magazine release button is movable between a neutral position and a depressed position; a biasing mechanism that biases the magazine release button toward the neutral position; and a magazine release arm coupled to the magazine release button and extending to a second position adjacent the side button of the virtual reality controller, wherein the distal end of the magazine release arm is configured to push the side button of the virtual reality controller to a first pressing level when the magazine release button is in the pressed position, and to release the side button of the virtual reality controller when the magazine release button is in the neutral position.

12. The pistol simulation assembly of claim 11 , wherein the lower portion of the magazine release arm includes a hook and the lower portion of the pistol grip includes an opening, the pistol simulation assembly further comprising: a magazine weight disposed within the pistol grip, wherein an upper portion of the magazine weight includes a lip; and a stop, disposed within and connected to the pistol grip, wherein, when the magazine release button is in a neutral position, the hook of the magazine release arm engages a lip of the magazine weight to suspend the magazine weight within the pistol grip in an engaged position, wherein, when the magazine release button is in the depressed position, the hook of the magazine release arm no longer engages the lip of the magazine weight, allowing the magazine weight to drop at least partially through the opening of the pistol grip to a released position, and Wherein, the stopper is configured to prevent the magazine weight from falling beyond a predetermined distance.

13. The pistol simulation assembly according to claim 12, wherein: The magazine weight is returned from the released position to the engaged position by applying an upward force to the portion of the magazine weight that protrudes from the pistol grip in the released position.

14. The pistol simulation assembly of claim 12, wherein when the magazine weight returns to the engaged position, the hook of the magazine release arm reengages the lip of the magazine weight to suspend the magazine weight within the pistol grip.

15. The pistol simulation assembly according to claim 11, further comprising: a slide release button rotatably coupled to the pistol body, wherein the slide release button is movable between a neutral position and a depressed position; a slide release arm coupled to the slide release button and extending to a first position adjacent the side button of the virtual reality controller; and a second biasing mechanism that biases the slide release button toward the neutral position; The distal end of the slide release arm is configured to push the side button of the virtual reality controller to a second depression level when the slide release button is in the depressed position, and to release the side button of the virtual reality controller when the slide release button is in the neutral position, wherein the first depression level is different from the second depression level.

16. The pistol simulation assembly of claim 15, wherein the distal end of the slide release arm is configured to indirectly push a side button of the virtual reality controller by pushing the distal end of the magazine release arm.

17. The pistol simulation assembly according to claim 15, wherein: The first compression level is greater than the second compression level.

18. The pistol simulation assembly according to claim 15, wherein: The second compression level is between 10% and 40% of the first compression level.

19. The pistol simulation assembly according to claim 15, wherein: The first biasing mechanism and the second biasing mechanism are springs.

20. A gun simulation component for a virtual reality controller, the gun simulation component comprising: a gun body, which has a grip; a docking bracket attached to the firearm body and sized to receive a grip of a virtual reality controller; and a lip member sized to receive an end of the virtual reality controller opposite the grip, wherein the lip member is movable along an axis between a receiving position and a clamping position, wherein the lip member is positioned closer to the firearm body in the clamping position than in the receiving position; wherein the docking bracket allows a virtual reality controller to be attached to the firearm body in a horizontal orientation when the lip member is in the clamped position, with a trigger finger button of the virtual reality controller oriented downward toward the firearm grip, and allows the virtual reality controller to be detached from the firearm body when the lip member is in the receiving position.

21. The firearm simulation assembly of claim 20, wherein the docking bracket has an annular shape.

22. The firearm simulation assembly of claim 20, wherein the lip member comprises a channel and an inner annular wall, the firearm simulation assembly further comprising: a fastener coupled to the firearm body and at least partially disposed in the channel of the lip member; and A biasing member is disposed between the fastener and the inner annular wall, wherein the biasing member biases the lip member toward the clamped position.

23. The firearm simulation assembly of claim 22, wherein the biasing member is a spring.

24. The firearm simulation assembly of claim 20, wherein the assembly allows access to a control panel of the virtual reality controller from a rear portion of the firearm body.

25. A pistol simulation assembly comprising: pistol body; and A bracket subassembly configured to releasably retain a virtual reality controller on a pistol body, the bracket subassembly comprising: a docking bracket coupled to the pistol body, wherein the docking bracket is configured to engage and hold a virtual reality controller in a fixed position relative to the pistol body, the virtual reality controller having a joystick for controlling gameplay; a sliding member coupled to the docking bracket and movable between a neutral position and a pulled position, the sliding member having an arm extending to a position adjacent the joystick of the virtual reality controller; and a biasing member configured to bias the sliding member toward the neutral position, Wherein, the arm is configured to push the joystick of the virtual reality controller when the sliding member is in the pulled position, and release the joystick of the virtual reality controller when the sliding member is in the neutral position.

26. The pistol simulation assembly of claim 25, further comprising a bracket cover disposed between the docking bracket and the slide member, wherein the bracket cover is rotatably connected to the docking bracket.

27. The pistol simulation assembly of claim 26, further comprising a fastener coupled to the cradle cover, wherein the sliding member includes a hole configured to receive the fastener, and wherein the fastener and the hole limit a maximum displacement of the sliding member relative to the cradle cover as the sliding member moves between the neutral position and the pulled position.

28. The pistol simulation assembly of claim 25, further comprising: a lip member sized to receive an end of a virtual reality controller, wherein the lip member includes a channel and an inner annular wall, wherein the lip member is movable along an axis between a receiving position and a clamping position, wherein the lip member is disposed closer to the pistol body when in the clamping position than when in the receiving position; a fastener coupled to the pistol body and at least partially disposed in the channel of the lip member; and A second biasing member is disposed between the fastener and the inner annular wall, wherein the second biasing member biases the lip member toward the clamped position.

29. The pistol simulation assembly of claim 25, further comprising: a magazine release button slidably connected to the pistol body; and a magazine release arm rotatably connected to the pistol body, the magazine release arm having a first distal end extending to a position adjacent a side button of the virtual reality controller and a second distal end proximate the magazine release button; Wherein, when the magazine release button moves from the neutral position to the pressed position, the magazine release button pushes the second distal end and causes the magazine release arm to rotate, so that the first distal end pushes the side button of the virtual reality controller.

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