AirKicker

Abstract

Device of a microcontroller-controlled air kicker, which uses fans or blowers to propel balls into an opponent's goal or to defend goals.

Description

[0001] In classic table football, a ball is moved towards the opponent's goal by figures attached to rods, with the aim of scoring the ball (GB205991A). While excessive rod rotation is prohibited in competitions, it is common practice in amateur games. Sanctions for incorrect or unsportsmanlike movement of the rods or figures are difficult to enforce, as the assessment is subjective. Classic table football must be played with at least two people.

[0002] A control system for the foosball table using manual air pumps was used several times, however, this air drive is still linked to playing figures ((US 3 741541 A, US 7673877B2, US8 485526 B2, US 2011 / 0291355A1, DE202008014374 U1).

[0003] While table football can also be played on a computer or console, much of the charm of the original game is lost in the process. However, playing as a single player against pre-programmed opponents is also possible in this case.

[0004] Our product takes up the basic idea of ​​the game of table football as a social game with the transport of a real ball into an opponent's goal, however, the ball is moved by air from fans and the control of the game is partially digitized.

[0005] Our product, as described in claims 1-4, solves the aforementioned problem by preserving the tactile feel and charm of the game, while using microcontroller-based monitoring to enable objectively measurable penalties that are automatically and immediately implemented. This makes the game fairer and more engaging, as players must assess multiple variables such as airflow strength, fan orientation, and interference from opponents' airflow. The game can be played against real opponents or against pre-installed programs of varying difficulty levels.

[0006] The embodiment shown here refers to a microcontroller-controlled air kicker where the game remains tactile but is partially digitally supported, and objectively measurable penalties for infractions are automatically applied. Additional sensors and actuators also allow switching to a game mode against pre-installed programs, with varying levels of difficulty.

[0007] This model was successfully manufactured and equipped as an example with six fans (three per side) and four gates (two per side).

[0008] The individual fans and gates are equipped with sensors and actuators that are controlled manually or automatically, depending on the game mode.

[0009] To precisely position the ball, each player has access to several motorized fans that can be adjusted. The fans' activation and deactivation, as well as the strength of the resulting airflow, are sensor-controlled. Certain illegal movements result in penalty seconds during which the fan switches off and cannot be reactivated.

[0010] It is possible to shoot at both of the opponent's goals, with each goal being registered by sensor control.

[0011] The motor control of the fans for aligning the fans can be done via potentiometer, Bluetooth or sensor control.

[0012] The game ends when a certain number of goals (e.g. 5) are reached.

[0013] The game can be played alone or with several people (up to 6 people in the model, as there are a total of 6 fans to operate). QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] GB 205991A

[0001] US 3 741541 A

[0002] US 7673877B2

[0002] US 8 485526 B2

[0002] US 2011 / 0291355A1

[0002] DE 202008014374 U1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Device of a microcontroller-controlled air kicker, with which balls can be transported into an opponent's goal or goals can be defended using fans or blowers. [2] Device according to claim 1, characterized by that the fans can be digitally aligned by the player and the strength of the airflow can be actively controlled. [3] Device according to claim 1, characterized by , that the monitoring of the game (faulty behavior, goals, etc.) is automated and digitally monitored and sanctioned if necessary. [4] Device according to claim 1, characterized by that different game modes are possible