Billiard table light effect control method and system

Abstract

The invention belongs to the field of light control, and discloses a billiard table light effect control method and system. The method comprises the steps of determining a visual area based on a monitoring image of a billiard table, and positioning a target ball, a target pocket opening and a ball hitting starting point; generating to-be-evaluated path data used for connecting the ball hitting starting point and the target pocket opening, calculating a system score of each piece of to-be-evaluated path data, and determining the to-be-evaluated path data with the system score higher than a preset score threshold value as a recommended path; after a success or failure result of the ball hitting behavior is recorded, generating a user score; processing the system score and the user score based on a preset evaluation rule to generate a comprehensive score; controlling the light effect of the billiard table according to the comprehensive score; and outputting a ball hitting reference angle for the user based on the recommended path. The system score and the user score are combined for comprehensive evaluation, instant feedback is provided through the light effect, and comprehensive analysis and reliable guidance of ball hitting performance are achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of lighting control technology, specifically relating to a method and system for controlling the lighting effects of a billiard table. Background Technology

[0002] With the integration of modern sports events and digital entertainment technology, the use of intelligent systems to enhance the viewing experience and immersion of events has become an industry trend. In billiards, a sport that combines competitiveness and entertainment, lighting systems are not only the infrastructure that ensures players have a clear view, but also an element that creates the atmosphere of the game and highlights key moments. A well-designed dynamic lighting system can amplify the tension and dynamism of the game through light and shadow effects, thereby enhancing the commercial value of the event and the entertainment experience of the audience.

[0003] However, existing lighting effect control technologies applied to billiard tables based on wireless networking or data interface connections suffer from response delays and synchronization issues. Their control logic is mostly passively triggered, meaning that the lighting switches only after events such as the sound of a ball being hit or a ball being pocketed occur. This causes the changes in light and shadow to lag behind the actual actions on the court, resulting in a disconnect between visual and auditory perception, affecting the smoothness and immersion of the game, and failing to achieve instantaneous synchronization between lighting effects and the player's brilliant maneuvers. Furthermore, the lighting effect control logic can only execute preset fixed lighting patterns based on single events such as ball hits, and cannot identify and differentiate complex game scenarios, resulting in monotonous and unlayered lighting feedback effects. In addition, existing technologies lack predictive and anticipatory capabilities, relying entirely on monitoring events that have already occurred, and cannot predict the player's intentions, the trajectory of the ball, or the upcoming climax, thus making it difficult to prepare the lighting layout in advance for visual setup.

[0004] To address the aforementioned technical issues, this invention provides a method and system for controlling the lighting effects of a billiard table, enabling real-time, precise, and even advanced synchronization between the lighting effects and the progress of the game, thus providing a better interactive viewing experience for spectators and players. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method for controlling the lighting effects of a billiard table, which can adjust the lighting effects of the billiard table in a timely manner based on the player's feedback on the shot.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows:

[0007] A method for controlling the lighting effects of a billiard table includes the following steps:

[0008] Based on the monitoring images of the billiard table, generate at least one recommended path and output the shot reference angle to the user accordingly;

[0009] After recording the success or failure of the shot, a comprehensive score is generated based on the success or failure and the recommended path, and the lighting effects of the pool table are controlled according to the comprehensive score.

[0010] The process of generating at least one recommended path includes: determining the visual region, locating the target ball and the target pocket based on the monitoring image, and marking the starting point of the shot; generating path data to be evaluated to connect the starting point of the shot and the target pocket; calculating the system score for each path data to be evaluated; and determining the path data to be evaluated with a system score higher than a preset score threshold as the recommended path.

[0011] Preferably, determining the visual region based on the monitoring image includes: obtaining the target boundary line through image processing, wherein the target boundary line is a continuous contour formed by the inner edge of the pool table in the calibrated top view image, and dividing the internal region surrounded by the target boundary line into multiple numbered regions; and determining the numbered regions whose brightness level is lower than a preset evaluation index threshold as visual regions.

[0012] Preferably, the calculation of the system score for each path data to be evaluated includes: determining whether there is an obstruction in the running path corresponding to the path data to be evaluated, and if there is an obstruction, determining the position of the obstruction in the running path; substituting the position of the obstruction and the angle measurement parameters generated based on the starting point of the shot into a preset system function for calculation to generate a system score.

[0013] Preferably, the step of generating a comprehensive score based on success or failure results and recommended paths includes: accumulating the success or failure results of each shot to obtain the number of successes and failures, and generating a user score accordingly; and processing the system score and user score based on preset evaluation rules to generate a comprehensive score.

[0014] Preferably, the step of controlling the lighting effect of the billiard table according to the overall score includes: converting the overall score into a feedback signal, and dividing the feedback signal into one of a plurality of preset levels according to the signal value of the feedback signal; adjusting the lighting effect of the billiard table according to the level to indicate the position of each ball after the shot is completed.

[0015] Preferably, generating at least one recommended path based on the monitoring image of the billiard table and outputting a shot reference angle to the user accordingly includes: processing the recommended path to determine the launch angle of each recommended path; selecting one launch angle from the determined multiple launch angles as a reference launch angle; and outputting a shot reference angle to the user based on the reference launch angle.

[0016] A billiard table lighting effect control system includes the following modules:

[0017] The table status analysis module is used to acquire monitoring images of the billiard table, and based on the monitoring images, determine the visual area, locate the target ball and the target pocket, and mark the starting point of the shot;

[0018] The shot path planning module is used to generate at least one recommended path in response to the analysis results of the table state analysis module, and output the shot reference angle to the user based on the recommended path;

[0019] The ball-hitting performance evaluation module is used to generate a comprehensive score after recording the success or failure of the ball-hitting behavior. The comprehensive score is based on the success or failure result and is generated by the recommended path.

[0020] The lighting feedback control module is used to adjust the lighting effects of the billiard table in response to the overall score generated by the shot performance evaluation module.

[0021] Preferably, generating at least one recommended path includes: determining the visual region, locating the target ball and the target pocket based on the monitoring image, and marking the starting point of the shot; generating path data to be evaluated to connect the starting point of the shot and the target pocket; calculating the system score for each path data to be evaluated; and determining the path data to be evaluated with a system score higher than a preset score threshold as the recommended path.

[0022] Preferably, generating a comprehensive score based on success or failure results and recommended paths includes: accumulating the success or failure results of each shot to generate a user score; and processing the system score and user score based on preset evaluation rules to generate a comprehensive score.

[0023] The lighting effects of the billiard table controlled according to the overall score include: converting the overall score into a feedback signal, and dividing the feedback signal into one of multiple preset levels according to the signal value of the feedback signal; adjusting the billiard table lighting effects according to the level to indicate the position of each ball after the shot is completed.

[0024] Beneficial effects

[0025] This invention calculates the system score of the path data to be evaluated, connecting the starting point of the shot to the target pocket, and records the success or failure of the user's shot to generate a user score. Finally, based on preset evaluation rules, the system score and user score are processed to generate a comprehensive score. This enables the analysis of the user's shot performance, evaluating not only the theoretical rationality of the path selection but also the user's actual execution ability. This allows for the accurate differentiation between strategy selection defects and operational errors, providing users with a basis for technical analysis.

[0026] After generating a comprehensive score, this invention converts the comprehensive score into a feedback signal and classifies it into preset levels. Then, based on the preset levels, it controls the lighting effects of the billiard table and presents the evaluation results on the billiard table in the form of lighting effects. This allows the user to obtain feedback information in real time. At the same time, based on the differentiated feedback of the comprehensive score, it can provide users with more refined guidance.

[0027] This invention determines the visual region based on monitored images and judges whether there are obstructions in the running path when evaluating the path, and incorporates this judgment result into the calculation of the system score; after determining the recommended path, further processing is performed to select the reference launch angle, and a single hitting reference angle is output to the user to ensure that the output hitting reference angle is both reliable and feasible. The judgment of obstructions avoids recommending infeasible paths; the integration and refinement of information from multiple recommended paths provides the user with clear action instructions and overcomes the decision-making confusion caused by too many alternatives. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of the method of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of the method for determining the optimal path according to the present invention;

[0030] Figure 3 This is a system module diagram of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0031] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely for explaining the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the invention.

[0032] Example 1

[0033] Please see Figures 1-2 This embodiment discloses a method for controlling the lighting effects of a billiard table, which can operate in a hardware environment including an image acquisition device, a data processing unit, and lighting control. Specifically, it includes the following steps:

[0034] Acquire monitoring images of the billiard table; specifically, through an image acquisition device installed directly above the billiard table, capture top-down images covering the entire billiard table surface periodically at a preset frame rate of 30 frames per second, with each frame serving as the monitoring image for subsequent processing.

[0035] Based on the monitoring images, visual regions are determined. Specifically, one or more visual regions are determined based on the monitoring images. To concentrate data processing resources on the effective playing surface, the playing surface area needs to be accurately separated from the monitoring images, and irrelevant backgrounds such as borders and the ground need to be excluded. Through image processing rules, continuous pixels with significant step changes in pixel brightness values ​​(i.e., high contrast) in the monitoring images are identified and connected to extract a clear and continuous outline formed by the inner edge of the pool table. This outline is determined as the target boundary line. The target boundary line is a continuous outline formed by the inner edge of the pool table in the calibrated top view image, identified by the image processing rules, and is used to define the effective playing surface area. The internal area enclosed by the target boundary line is divided according to a preset 100x50 virtual grid to generate multiple closely arranged rectangular areas. Each rectangular area is assigned a unique coordinate identifier to form multiple numbered areas for accurate indexing and management of subsequent data.

[0036] The image processing rules are as follows: To filter out ineffective hitting surfaces such as pocket openings, the average pixel brightness value of each numbered region is calculated and compared with a preset brightness threshold value used to distinguish between the table surface fabric and pocket opening areas. The brightness threshold value is a preset pixel brightness value used as a threshold to distinguish between lighter-colored table surface fabric and darker-colored pocket openings or shadow areas. Since the color of the pool table pocket openings is usually much darker than the table surface, their average pixel brightness value will be significantly lower than this threshold. Therefore, all numbered regions with brightness values ​​lower than this threshold are identified as pocket opening areas or shadow areas and excluded. The remaining set of numbered regions is then collectively determined as the visual region, serving as the working range for subsequent target recognition.

[0037] Based on the monitoring images, the target balls and target pockets are located, and the starting point of the shot is marked. Specifically, based on the monitoring images, within multiple visual areas, a set of pixels conforming to the standard circular outline of a billiard ball is searched, and the center point and radius of this pixel set are calculated to locate the position coordinates of each billiard ball. The pixel color information of the area where each billiard ball is located is analyzed. The pixel color information can be a value in RGB or HSV color space. It is compared with the preset cue ball color characteristics, which are a preset pure white color range. The billiard ball that conforms to the color characteristics is identified as the cue ball, and the center coordinates of the cue ball are marked as the starting point of the shot. The remaining billiard balls are identified as target balls. Based on the geometric center of the low-brightness pocket area excluded from multiple visual areas, or by matching with a preset pocket position template, the center coordinates of the six target pockets are accurately located. The preset pocket position template includes the pocket size characteristics of a circle with a diameter of 80-100mm and the dark RGB value range of pocket color characteristics: R<50, G<50, B<50.

[0038] Generate path data to be evaluated for connecting the starting point of the shot and the target pocket; specifically, in an iterative manner, construct all possible shot combinations between the cue ball (the starting point of the shot), each target ball, and each target pocket; for each combination, generate path data to be evaluated, which is a dataset describing a theoretical shot process. The path data to be evaluated is used to describe a theoretical shot process; a path data to be evaluated must contain at least the target ball identifier, the target pocket identifier, and the straight path connecting the two: the current target ball identifier, the target pocket identifier, and the straight path connecting the current position of the target ball and the center of the target pocket are defined as the target ball's running path; the endpoint coordinates of this running path are defined as the shot end point, which is usually the center of the target pocket.

[0039] Calculate the score for each path data to be evaluated; specifically, calculate the matching degree for each path data to be evaluated, and determine the matching degree as the score for that path. The score is a calculated value used to quantify the feasibility of a single path data to be evaluated.

[0040] The calculation process specifically involves: determining whether there are any obstructions in the running path corresponding to the path data to be evaluated; checking whether the running path segment intersects with the circular area of ​​any other billiard ball besides the cue ball and the current target ball; if there is an intersection, the path is marked as obstructed, and the location information of the obstruction is recorded; in this embodiment, for the path to be evaluated involving cushion bounce, the path segment before the cue ball hits the target ball, the path segment before the target ball hits the cushion, and the path segment from the target ball bounce to the pocket are determined respectively; if there is an obstruction in any of the above stages, the path is marked as obstructed.

[0041] Based on the current position of the target ball and the center position of the target pocket, it is deduced that in order for the target ball to move along its path, the cue ball must strike the precise tangent point on the surface of the target ball. This tangent point is the contact point of the target ball. Combining the position of the cue ball as the starting point of the shot and the contact point of the target ball, angle calculation parameters for evaluating the difficulty of the shot are generated. These parameters mainly include the angle between the cue ball's aiming line from the center of the cue ball to the contact point of the target ball and the running path, i.e., the separation angle or tangent angle. The separation angle is a key geometric parameter for evaluating the difficulty of the shot.

[0042] The score is calculated based on the degree of matching. Specifically, an initial base score is set, which is 100 points in this embodiment. If the path is marked as obstructed, a larger fixed score is deducted directly, which is 50 points in this embodiment. Based on the calculated separation angle, a preset angle-deduction mapping table is consulted to deduct points. The angle-deduction mapping table defines a non-linear relationship between the separation angle and the score deduction value. The larger the angle, the higher the difficulty of the hit, and the more points are deducted. Then, based on the length of the running path, another set of distance-deduction mapping relationships is applied to deduct points. The distance-deduction mapping relationship defines a relationship between the running path length and the score deduction value. The longer the path, the more points are deducted. The final value obtained is the score for that path.

[0043] The formula for calculating the score of each path data point to be evaluated is as follows:

[0044]

[0045] In the formula, The score represents a quantitative evaluation of the feasibility and execution difficulty of a single path. This represents the base score, which is the initial maximum score for an ideal, barrier-free path. This represents the Kronecker function, which acts as a penalty switch to determine whether a path is obstructed; when the path is obstructed ( Its value is 1 when the path is blocked, and its value is 0 when the path is blocked. This represents the occlusion penalty constant, which is a fixed score deducted due to path occlusion. The angle penalty function represents the angle-deduction mapping table. It is a monotonically increasing function of the separation angle; the larger the angle, the more points are deducted. The separation angle; This represents the distance penalty function, which signifies the distance-deduction mapping relationship. It is a monotonically increasing function with respect to path length; the longer the distance, the more points are deducted. This represents the length of the running path.

[0046] Path data with scores higher than a preset score threshold are identified as recommended paths. Specifically, a preset score threshold is used, and path data with scores higher than the threshold are labeled as recommended paths. The score threshold is a preset minimum score used to filter out basic feasible shot lines. In this embodiment, the minimum score is adjusted according to the type of billiards on the table: 60 points for snooker and 55 points for American eight-ball. The score threshold is used to distinguish between recommended paths with basic feasibility and failed paths without practical value. The scores of all path data to be evaluated are compared with the score threshold. Data with scores higher than or equal to the score threshold can be considered as alternative shot strategies with operational feasibility. Their corresponding paths are classified as recommended paths and stored along with their scores as alternative shot strategies provided to the user. Data with scores lower than the score threshold are identified as failed paths. Such paths do not have practical value due to severe obstruction or excessively large separation angles and are usually not shown to the user.

[0047] Record the success or failure of each shot. Specifically, after a user completes a shot, by comparing the changes in the position of the billiard balls in the monitoring images of consecutive frames before and after the shot, determine whether the target ball has entered the visual area corresponding to the target pocket within a preset time window, or whether all balls have stopped moving but the target ball has not been pocketed, thus objectively recording the result of the shot as success or failure.

[0048] A comprehensive score is generated based on the success or failure outcome and the recommended path. Specifically, a user score is generated based on the success or failure outcome, which aims to reflect the user's actual performance level over a period of time. Within a sliding data window, the control value used to control the maximum number of shots is defined as the cumulative number of successful and unsuccessful shots in the last 20 shots. The sliding data window refers to a data management mechanism that only retains the shot records with a preset control value of the most recent N shots and deletes shot records exceeding N shots. A user score is calculated using a comprehensive score formula to reflect the user's recent performance in real time.

[0049] Generate a composite score; specifically, input the composite score formula based on the cumulative number of successes and failures within the sliding data window:

[0050]

[0051] In the formula, This represents the user's score, which indicates the user's success rate in hitting the ball over a recent period. This indicates the number of successful shots, meaning the number of times the user successfully pocketed the target ball within the data window. This indicates the number of failures, meaning the number of times the user failed to pocket the target ball within the data window.

[0052] According to the comprehensive scoring formula, the number of successful and unsuccessful shots accumulated within the sliding data window will be converted into a user score, which reflects the user's recent shot success rate in real time.

[0053] Generate a comprehensive score; specifically, input the score and the user score into a comprehensive evaluation calculation model to generate a comprehensive score;

[0054] The calculation formula for the comprehensive evaluation model is as follows:

[0055]

[0056] In the formula, This represents the overall score, which is a comprehensive evaluation of a single shot. The score indicates the theoretical feasibility and difficulty rating of the corresponding shot path. This represents the user's score, which reflects the success rate of the user's overall recent performance. This represents the weighting coefficient, which is a preset coefficient used to adjust the proportion of the score and the user's score in the overall score. Different weighting coefficients can be set according to the user's billiards skill level. In this embodiment, novice users... Take 0.5, for professional users Take 0.3.

[0057] When a user successfully hits the ball, the calculated overall score will primarily reflect the theoretical difficulty of that successful shot, which is reflected in the score. The comprehensive evaluation calculation model combines the theoretical difficulty of the path as reflected in the score with the user's actual shot performance as reflected in the user's score, and gives a comprehensive evaluation, namely the overall score, which is the final evaluation value.

[0058] The overall score is converted into a feedback signal, and then categorized and illuminated. Specifically, the feedback signal is categorized into one of several preset levels based on its signal value: the numerical overall score is encapsulated into a digital signal containing the score information, which serves as the feedback signal. This feedback signal is used as the direct basis for subsequent categorization and triggering of lighting effects. Based on several preset score thresholds, the overall score is output and categorized into preset levels. In this embodiment, the levels are: Level 1 (90-100 points), Level 2 (75-89 points), Level 3 (60-74 points), and Level 4 (below 60 points). Based on these levels, the lighting effects of the billiard table are adjusted via lighting control to indicate the position of each ball after a shot is taken.

[0059] In this embodiment, for a successful shot with a comprehensive score at the first level, the actual trajectories of the cue ball and the object ball can be outlined on the table with green light; for a failed shot, the key point of the error can be indicated with red light, which may be the deviation between the actual impact point and the theoretical contact point of the object ball based on image analysis. At the same time, different feedback information is output according to the level. If the comprehensive score is at the first level, a success feedback message is output, which may be a text prompt indicating a great shot; if it is at a lower level, a failure feedback message or a suggestion to adjust the feedback message is output, which may be a text prompt indicating an error and suggesting choosing a simpler line.

[0060] In this embodiment, preferably, the cue ball position is marked with a white LED dot with a diameter of 5cm and a brightness of 300cd / m², the target ball not pocketed is marked with a yellow LED dot with a diameter of 5cm and a brightness of 250cd / m², and the pocket opening corresponding to the pocketed target ball is marked with a flashing green light with a frequency of 2Hz and a brightness of 350cd / m², the duration of which is related to the overall score level; when the overall score is at the first level, the green light dynamically outlines the actual trajectory of the cue ball and target ball with a line width of 3mm for 3 seconds, while the green light at the pocket opening flashes for 5 seconds; when the overall score is at the second level, the yellow light outlines the trajectory of the target ball for 2 seconds, while the green light at the pocket opening flashes for 3 seconds; when the overall score is at the third level, the blue light illuminates the final positions of the cue ball and target ball for 2 seconds; when the overall score is at the fourth level, the red light connects two points with a red line with a line width of 2mm for 5 seconds to indicate the deviation between the actual impact point and the theoretical contact point, while the yellow light illuminates the final position of the target ball.

[0061] The system provides users with a reference angle and optimized path for hitting the ball. Specifically, it processes all data labeled as recommended paths, extracts the aiming line angle of the cue ball corresponding to each recommended path as the launch angle, selects the path with the highest score from all recommended paths, determines the corresponding cue ball aiming line angle as the benchmark launch angle, and calculates the aiming direction that the cue ball should follow to achieve this impact based on the benchmark launch angle. This direction is then visually output to the user as a reference angle for hitting the ball by projecting light onto the billiard table.

[0062] Furthermore, to generate optimized reference paths, a forward-looking deduction can be performed on each recommended path: For a given recommended path, firstly, based on the physical collision rules, the theoretical stopping position of the cue ball after successfully pocketing the target ball is calculated. This forward-looking deduction is a decision optimization process. By simulating and calculating the theoretical stopping position of the cue ball after a successful recommended path, and using this as a new starting point to evaluate the potential score of subsequent shots, a deeper tactical consideration of path selection is achieved. The optimal recommended path determined through forward-looking deduction, which not only has a high success rate for the current shot but also creates a more favorable situation for subsequent shots, is the optimized reference path.

[0063] Using the cue ball's stopping position as the new starting point, the process re-generates the path data to be evaluated, connecting the starting point to the target pocket. A score is calculated for each path data point, and paths with scores above a preset threshold are identified as recommended paths. This process evaluates the potential shot lines for all remaining target balls and identifies the highest score among them. The score of the current recommended path is weighted and summed with this highest score to obtain a forward-looking comprehensive score. This forward-looking comprehensive score considers not only the current shot but also the subsequent shot situation, serving as a calculation model for evaluating the tactical value of the path.

[0064] The recommended path with the highest overall forward-looking score is identified as the optimized reference path. By projecting the expected trajectory of the target ball and the expected stopping area of ​​the cue ball under this path onto the table using different colored lights, a more advanced tactical reference is provided to the user.

[0065] The formula for calculating the prospective composite score is as follows:

[0066]

[0067] in, By path The cue ball position after a successful shot becomes the new starting point. The process of generating evaluation path data to connect the starting point of the shot with the target pocket is repeated. The score of each evaluation path data is calculated. The evaluation path data with a score higher than the preset score threshold is determined as the maximum score among all possible paths after the recommended path is obtained.

[0068] In the formula, This represents a forward-looking comprehensive score, meaning a score for the path. The tactical value is quantitatively scored, taking into account both current difficulty and future benefits; This represents the score of the current path, which indicates the currently recommended path. Theoretical feasibility and difficulty rating; This represents the subsequent optimal score, meaning the score assumed for the current path. Upon success, the highest score among all possible subsequent shot paths; This represents the weighting coefficient, which is a preset coefficient used to adjust the proportion of current and future returns in the score. (Subscript) This represents the index of the recommended path currently being evaluated.

[0069] Example 2

[0070] Please see Figure 3This embodiment discloses a billiard table lighting effect control system. This system can provide shot assistance to users based on the real-time status of the billiard table and generate dynamic lighting feedback based on the user's shot performance, thereby enhancing the fun and training effect of billiards. In its implementation, the system can be deployed on computing devices including personal computers, servers, and dedicated embedded controllers. It communicates and controls image acquisition devices such as high-definition cameras located above the billiard table, as well as lighting devices such as LED light strips and projectors integrated into or around the billiard table, via data interfaces or wireless networking. Specifically, it includes the following modules:

[0071] The table status analysis module is configured to acquire and analyze the real-time status of the billiard table, providing basic data for subsequent path planning. In a specific execution process, this module first captures a top-view monitoring image of the billiard table through an image acquisition device. The image acquisition device uses a high-definition industrial camera with 2 megapixels or higher, installed 1.8-2.2 meters directly above the billiard table. Specifically, the installation position of the high-definition industrial camera is adjusted according to the size of the billiard table: 1.8 meters for an 8-foot table and 2.2 meters for a 9-foot table. The lens axis is perpendicular to the table surface and the installation deviation is ≤±3° to avoid the cushions obstructing the view. The parameters of the high-definition industrial camera are configured as follows: focal length adapted to the table size, 8mm for an 8-foot table and 10mm for a 9-foot table; frame rate 30fps; resolution 1920×1080; and a polarizing filter is used to eliminate reflections from the table surface lights, ensuring that the outline of the ball is clearly distinguishable in the image.

[0072] To ensure the accuracy of the analysis, the monitoring images are first preprocessed to determine the effective visual area. In this embodiment, if no effective visual area is obtained, the device self-test is triggered, such as checking whether the camera mounting bracket is loose; detecting whether there is continuous vibration on the table; and sending an image abnormality prompt to the user terminal such as the mobile APP, until the image is clear again and a valid visual area is obtained again.

[0073] Based on effective visual regions, the image processing algorithm using edge detection identifies and extracts the contour of the pool table's edge as the target boundary line. Subsequently, the internal region enclosed by the target boundary line is gridded or irregularly divided into multiple numbered regions. By analyzing the brightness level of each numbered region and comparing it with a preset evaluation index threshold, this module excludes regions that may be too bright due to light reflection or glare, or too dim due to shadows, and determines the numbered regions that meet the brightness requirements as visual regions.

[0074] Within the defined visual area, target recognition technology is further employed. In this embodiment, the target recognition technology is based on Hough transform or deep learning model, which accurately locates the position coordinates of all billiard balls on the table. Based on the user's pre-specified or the system's automatic judgment, one of them is identified as the target ball, and one or more available target pockets are determined according to the billiard rules. The current position coordinates of the cue ball are marked as the starting point of the shot. All these parsing results are updated every 0.5 seconds, and data output is immediately triggered when a change in the ball's position is detected and the coordinate deviation is >2mm. The data, including visual area data containing coordinate ranges, position data of the target ball and target pockets, and starting point data containing coordinates, are output as structured data in JSON format to the shot path planning module.

[0075] The core task of the shot path planning module is to respond to the analysis results of the table state analysis module, plan and recommend the best shot path for the user. After receiving the position information of the shot starting point, the target ball and the target pocket, the module begins to execute path planning.

[0076] The path planning steps include: generating path data to be evaluated, connecting the starting point of the shot to the target pocket. This path data can include a straight path directly hitting the target ball into the pocket, or a complex path utilizing one or more cushion bounces. Each path data includes the expected trajectory of the cue ball and the expected trajectory of the target ball. Next, a system score is calculated for each path data. During the calculation, it determines whether there are other billiard balls or other obstructions in the path corresponding to the path data. If obstructions exist, their specific locations within the path are determined. Subsequently, the module inputs the obstruction's location information, along with angle calculation parameters such as the shot angle and separation angle generated based on the starting point of the shot, into a preset system function for calculation. This system function comprehensively considers multiple factors, including path length, number of bounces, shot difficulty, and the presence of obstructions, to generate a quantified system score. Then, the system scores of all path data are compared with a preset score threshold. Path data with system scores higher than this threshold are identified as recommended paths to be displayed to the user; there may be one or more recommended paths. Finally, the system outputs a reference angle for the shot to the user. It first processes each recommended path to determine its corresponding precise launch angle. If there are multiple recommended paths, the module can select one launch angle as the baseline launch angle. In this embodiment, the angle corresponding to the path with the highest system score is selected. Based on this baseline launch angle, the system outputs an intuitive reference angle for the shot to the user through light projection or display on an external display screen to assist the user in aiming.

[0077] The ball-hitting performance evaluation module is activated after the user completes a ball-hitting action. Its task is to objectively evaluate the user's ball-hitting performance and generate a comprehensive score.

[0078] After a user's shot, the module analyzes new monitoring images and records whether the target ball entered the expected pocket as a success or failure result. It continuously accumulates the success and failure results of each shot to obtain the user's total number of successes and failures, generating a user score reflecting the user's recent skill level. Subsequently, based on preset evaluation rules, the system score generated by the shot path planning module, representing the inherent difficulty of the path chosen or attempted by the user, is combined with the user score to generate a comprehensive score. For example, a beginner with a low user score who successfully completes a difficult shot with a high system score will receive a correspondingly higher comprehensive score as encouragement; conversely, a skilled user who misses an easy shot may receive a relatively low comprehensive score.

[0079] The lighting feedback control module controls the pool table's lighting effects based on the evaluation results. It receives the overall score generated by the shot performance evaluation module and converts it into a feedback signal. Based on the signal value of this feedback signal, the module categorizes the shot performance into one of several preset levels, such as "Perfect," "Excellent," "Good," or "Needs Improvement." According to the determined level, the module drives the pool table's lighting equipment via control commands, adjusting the lighting effects. These effects can not only celebrate or indicate the shot's result but also mark the positions of the balls after the shot. For example, for a "Perfect" shot, the system can trigger dynamic lighting effects; for other levels, it may clearly illuminate the new positions of all balls on the table with different colors or brightness, allowing the user to quickly analyze the situation for the next shot.

[0080] The system in this embodiment can achieve intelligent analysis, precise guidance and real-time feedback on the billiards hitting process. It combines traditional billiards with modern artificial intelligence technology and interactive lighting art, which not only provides effective training tools for billiards beginners, but also brings a brand-new interactive entertainment experience to billiards enthusiasts and entertainment venues.

Claims

1. A method for controlling the lighting effects of a billiard table, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Based on the monitoring images of the billiard table, generate at least one recommended path and output the shot reference angle to the user accordingly; After recording the success or failure of the shot, a comprehensive score is generated based on the success or failure and the recommended path, and the lighting effects of the pool table are controlled according to the comprehensive score. The process of generating at least one recommended path includes: determining the visual region, locating the target ball and the target pocket based on the monitoring image, and marking the starting point of the shot; generating path data to be evaluated to connect the starting point of the shot and the target pocket; calculating the system score for each path data to be evaluated; and determining the path data to be evaluated with a system score higher than a preset score threshold as the recommended path.

2. The method for controlling the lighting effects of a billiard table according to claim 1, characterized in that, The determination of the visual region based on the monitoring image includes: obtaining the target boundary line through image processing. The target boundary line is the continuous contour formed by the inner edge of the billiard table in the calibrated top view image, and dividing the internal region surrounded by the target boundary line into multiple numbered regions; and determining the numbered regions whose brightness level is lower than the preset evaluation index threshold as the visual region.

3. The method for controlling the lighting effects of a billiard table according to claim 1, characterized in that, The calculation of the system score for each path data to be evaluated includes: determining whether there is an obstruction in the running path corresponding to the path data to be evaluated, and if there is an obstruction, determining the position of the obstruction in the running path; substituting the position of the obstruction and the angle measurement parameters generated based on the starting point of the shot into a preset system function for calculation to generate a system score.

4. The method for controlling the lighting effects of a billiard table according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process of generating a comprehensive score based on success or failure results and recommended paths includes: accumulating the success or failure results of each shot to obtain the number of successes and failures, and generating a user score accordingly; and processing the system score and user score based on preset evaluation rules to generate a comprehensive score.

5. The method for controlling the lighting effects of a billiard table according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process of controlling the lighting effects of the pool table based on the overall score includes: converting the overall score into a feedback signal, and dividing the feedback signal into one of multiple preset levels based on the signal value of the feedback signal; adjusting the pool table lighting effects according to the level to indicate the position of each ball after the shot is completed.

6. The method for controlling the lighting effects of a billiard table according to claim 1, characterized in that, Based on the monitoring images of the billiard table, generating at least one recommended path and outputting a shot reference angle to the user accordingly includes: processing the recommended path to determine the launch angle of each recommended path; selecting one launch angle as a reference launch angle from the determined multiple launch angles; and outputting a shot reference angle to the user based on the reference launch angle.

7. A billiard table lighting effect control system, characterized in that, Includes the following modules: The table status analysis module is used to acquire monitoring images of the billiard table, and based on the monitoring images, determine the visual area, locate the target ball and the target pocket, and mark the starting point of the shot; The shot path planning module is used to generate at least one recommended path in response to the analysis results of the table state analysis module, and output the shot reference angle to the user based on the recommended path; The ball-hitting performance evaluation module is used to generate a comprehensive score after recording the success or failure of the ball-hitting behavior. The comprehensive score is based on the success or failure result and is generated by the recommended path. The lighting feedback control module is used to adjust the lighting effects of the billiard table in response to the overall score generated by the shot performance evaluation module.

8. A billiard table lighting effect control system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The process of generating at least one recommended path includes: determining the visual region, locating the target ball and the target pocket based on the monitoring image, and marking the starting point of the shot; generating path data to be evaluated to connect the starting point of the shot and the target pocket; calculating the system score for each path data to be evaluated; and determining the path data to be evaluated with a system score higher than a preset score threshold as the recommended path.

9. A billiard table lighting effect control system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The comprehensive score generated based on success or failure results and recommended paths includes: accumulating the success or failure results of each shot to generate a user score; and processing the system score and user score based on preset evaluation rules to generate a comprehensive score.

10. A billiard table lighting effect control system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The lighting effects of the billiard table controlled according to the overall score include: converting the overall score into a feedback signal, and dividing the feedback signal into one of multiple preset levels according to the signal value of the feedback signal; adjusting the billiard table lighting effects according to the level to indicate the position of each ball after the shot is completed.

Images