Systems and methods for multi-variable point mechanisms in sports and games

Abstract

A basketball shooting gaming system (1) is disclosed having at least two baskets (10) of different sizes configured to receive a shot basketball (2) from a shooter (3). The system (1) may include a processor (95) configured to determine whether the basketball (2) has passed through one of the at least two different sized baskets (10), and generate a hit shot identifier (94) and generate a plurality of data. The system (1) may include first data (99) generated from a processor including at least a basket size identifier (92) representing a basket of a first size from at least two baskets of different sizes (10); second data (99) generated from the processor (95), including at least a basket size identifier (92) representing a basket of a second size from the at least two baskets of different sizes (10); and a display (28) configured to display a numerical value representing a score, where the score is based at least in part on the hit shot identifier (94), the first data, and the second data (99).

Description

(19) State Intellectual Property Office (12) Invention Patent Application (10) Application Publication Number (43) Application Publication Date (21) Application Number 202480036975.1 (22) Application Date 2024.06.05 (30) Priority Data 63 / 506,290 2023.06.05 US 18 / 376,718 2023.10.04 US (85) PCT International Application Entering National Phase Date 2025.12.02 (86) PCT International Application Application Data PCT / US2024 / 032587 2024.06.05 (87) PCT International Application Publication Data WO2024 / 254175 EN 2024.12.12 (71) Applicant James Bush Address Wyoming, USA (72) Inventor James Bush (74) Patent Agency Beijing Ying Sai Jia Hua Intellectual Property Agency Co., Ltd. 11204 Patent Attorney Zhang Lei Wang Dazuo (51) Int.Cl. A63B 63 / 00 (2006.01) A63B 69 / 00 (2006.01) A63B 24 / 00 (2006.01) G06V 10 / 00 (2006.01) G06V 40 / 00 (2006.01) (54) Invention Title System and Method for Multivariable Point Mechanism in Sports and Games (57) Abstract A basketball shooting game system (1) is disclosed, which has at least two baskets (10) of different sizes, which are configured to receive a shot basketball (2) from the shooter (3). System (1) may include a processor (95) configured to determine whether a basketball (2) has passed through one of at least two different-sized hoops (10), and to generate a shot-hit identifier (94) and generate multiple data. System (1) may include: first data (99) generated from the processor, including at least a hoop size identifier (92) representing a hoop of a first size from at least two different-sized hoops (10); second data (99) generated from the processor (95), including at least a hoop size identifier (92) representing a hoop of a second size from at least two different-sized hoops (10); and a display (28) configured to display a numerical value representing a score, wherein the score is at least partially based on the shot-hit identifier (94), the first data, and the second data (99).Claims (2 pages), Description (21 pages), Drawings (4 pages), CN 121219051 A, 2025.12.26, CN 1 21 21 90 51 A 1. A basketball shooting game system having at least two different-sized hoops configured to receive a shot of a basketball from a shooter, the system comprising: a processor configured to: determine whether the basketball has passed through one of the at least two different-sized hoops and generate a hit shot identifier; and generate a plurality of data; first data generated from the processor, the first data including at least a basket size identifier representing a first-sized hoop from the at least two different-sized hoops; second data generated from the processor, the second data including at least a basket size identifier representing a second-sized hoop from the at least two different-sized hoops; and a display configured to display a numerical value representing a score, wherein the score is at least partially based on the hit shot identifier, the first data, and the second data. 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising third data generated from the processor, the third data including at least a ball color identifier indicating the color of the basketball, and wherein the score is also at least partially based on the third data. 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the ball color identifier is a virtual ball color identifier. 4. The system of claim 1, further comprising fourth data generated from the processor, the fourth data including at least a shooter identifier indicating which hand shot the basketball, and wherein the score is also at least partially based on the fourth data. 5. The system of claim 1, further comprising fifth data generated from the processor, the fifth data including at least a distance identifier indicating the distance between the shooter and the at least two different-sized hoops, wherein the score is also at least partially based on the fifth data. 6. The system of claim 1, further comprising a variable-rate return device configured to deliver the basketball to the shooter at a return rate, wherein the return rate is at least partially changed due to the hit shot identifier. 7. The system of claim 1 further includes a mechanism for switching one of the at least two different-sized hoops to a different one of the at least two different-sized hoops based on a predetermined switching schedule or at least in part on the hit shot identifier.8. A method for controlling a basketball shooting game system, the basketball shooting game system having at least two hoops of different sizes, the hoops being configured to receive a shot of a basketball from a shooter, the method comprising: using a processor to determine whether the basketball has passed through one of the at least two hoops of different sizes, and generating a hit identifier; using the processor to generate first data, the first data including at least a basket size identifier representing a first size of the basket from the at least two hoops of different sizes; using the processor to generate second data, the second data including at least a basket size identifier representing a second size of the basket from the at least two hoops of different sizes; using the processor to determine a score at least in part based on the hit identifier, the first data, and the second data; and displaying the score using a display. Claims 1 / 2 Page 2 CN 121219051 A 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising: using the processor to generate third data, the third data including at least a ball color identifier representing the color of the basketball, and wherein determining the score is also at least in part based on the third data. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the ball color identifier is a virtual ball color identifier. 11. The method of claim 8, further comprising: generating fourth data using the processor, the fourth data including at least a shooter identifier indicating which hand shot the basketball, and wherein determining the score is also based at least partially on the fourth data. 12. The method of claim 8, further comprising: generating fifth data using the processor, the fifth data including at least a distance identifier indicating the distance between the shooter and the at least two different-sized hoops, and wherein determining the score is also based at least partially on the fifth data. 13. The method of claim 8, further comprising: setting a ball return rate for providing the basketball to the shooter using the processor, and changing the return rate using the processor at least partially based on the hit shot identifier. 14. The method of claim 8, further comprising: generating a control signal for switching one of the at least two different-sized hoops to a different one of the at least two different-sized hoops based on a predetermined switching schedule or at least partially based on the hit shot identifier. 15. A basketball shooting game controller with a variable-rate return ball device, the controller comprising: a processor configured to: determine whether a basketball has passed through at least one basket and generate a successful shot identifier; and generate a control signal for changing the ball return rate of the variable-rate return ball device, based at least in part on the successful shot identifier.16. The controller of claim 15, wherein the processor is further configured to generate first data and second data, the first data including at least a basket size identifier representing a basket of a first size from the at least one basket, the second data including at least a basket size identifier representing a basket of a second size from the at least one basket, and wherein the generated control signal is at least partially based on the first data and the second data. 17. The controller of claim 15, wherein the processor is further configured to generate third data, the third data including at least a ball color identifier representing the color of the basketball, and wherein the generated control signal is at least partially based on the third data. 18. The controller of claim 17, wherein the ball color identifier is a virtual ball color identifier. 19. The controller of claim 15, wherein the processor is further configured to generate fourth data, the fourth data including at least a shooter identifier representing which hand shot the basketball, and wherein the generated control signal is at least partially based on the fourth data. 20. The controller of claim 15, wherein the processor is further configured to generate fifth data, the fifth data including at least a distance identifier representing the distance between the shooter and the at least two hoops of different sizes, and wherein the generated control signal is also at least partially based on the fifth data. Claims 2 / 2 Page 3 CN 121219051 A System and Method for Multivariable Point Mechanisms in Sports and Games

[0001] This is an international patent application claiming the benefit and priority of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 18 / 376,718, filed October 4, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 506,290, filed June 5, 2023, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. This application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 413,104, filed October 4, 2022, U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 18 / 376,718, which is incorporated in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to dynamic basketball shooting platforms. More specifically, this application relates to systems and methods for multivariate scoring mechanisms in basketball shooting platforms. Background Art

[0003] Shooting a ball into a goal is perhaps the dominant game mechanic that has propelled basketball into a globally significant sport with substantial economic implications. It has proven to be a form of enjoyable, non-competitive entertainment and a dynamic form of competition. Shooting can be the fundamental game mechanic responsible for generating hundreds of billions of dollars in economic activity.The currently dominant competitive models may rely on many game mechanics, such as defense, dribbling, passing, rebounding, jumping, etc. Some games may utilize game models focused on shooting mechanics to create an engaging game. "HORSE", "PIG", "Around the World", free throw games, and three-point games are examples of basketball games that rely on shooting mechanics. However, the lack of scoring variability in current shooting mechanic models makes it difficult to create complex games. There has been no professional and systematic attempt to explore and develop alternative game models that can isolate or even focus on further developing core game mechanics, such as shooting. Video games, pinball machines, and board games have developed a large library of successful game model software. However, there has been insufficient attempt to compile these proven game routines, or even to port these proven game routines to dynamic shooting basketball platforms. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application includes several aspects that may be selected or need to be addressed in different combinations based on a specific application.

[0005] In a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a basketball shooting game system is disclosed, having at least two rims of at least two different sizes, the rims being configured to receive a shot from a shooter. The system may include a processor configured to: determine whether the basketball has passed through one of the at least two rims of different sizes, and generate a hit shot identifier; and generate a plurality of data. Additionally, the system may include: first data generated from the processor, the first data including at least a rim size identifier representing a rim of a first size from the at least two rims of different sizes; and second data generated from the processor, the second data including at least a rim size identifier representing a rim of a second size from the at least two rims of different sizes. Furthermore, the system may include a display configured to display a numerical value representing a score, wherein the score is at least partially based on the hit shot identifier, the first data, and the second data.

[0006] In some versions of the first exemplary embodiment, the system may include third data generated from the processor, the third data including at least a ball color identifier representing the color of the basketball, and wherein the score is also based at least in part on the third data. The ball color identifier may be a virtual ball color identifier.The system may include fourth data generated from the processor and fifth data generated from the processor, the fourth data including at least a shooter identifier indicating which hand is shooting the basketball, and wherein the score is also at least partially based on the fourth data, the fifth data including at least a distance identifier indicating the distance between the shooter and the at least two different-sized hoops, wherein the score is also at least partially based on the fifth data. Furthermore, the system may include a variable-rate return device configured to provide the basketball to the shooter at a return rate, wherein the return rate is changed at least partially due to the hit shot identifier. Moreover, the system may include a mechanism for switching one of the at least two different-sized hoops to a different one of the at least two different-sized hoops based on a predetermined switching schedule or at least partially due to the hit shot identifier.

[0007] In a second exemplary embodiment of the invention, a method for controlling one aspect of a basketball shooting game system is disclosed, the basketball shooting game system having at least two different-sized hoops configured to receive a shot basketball from a shooter. The method may include: using a processor to determine whether a basketball has passed through one of the at least two different-sized hoops, and generating a shot-hit identifier; using the processor to generate first data, the first data including at least a hoop size identifier representing a hoop of a first size from the at least two different-sized hoops; using the processor to generate second data, the second data including at least a hoop size identifier representing a hoop of a second size from the at least two different-sized hoops; using the processor to determine a score based at least in part on the shot-hit identifier, the first data, and the second data; and using a display to display the score.

[0008] In some versions of a second exemplary embodiment, the method may include: using the processor to generate third data, the third data including at least a ball color identifier representing the color of the basketball, and wherein determining the score is also based at least in part on the third data. The ball color identifier may be a virtual ball color identifier.Additionally, the method may include: generating fourth data using the processor, the fourth data including at least a shooter identifier indicating which hand shot the basketball, and wherein determining the score is also based at least in part on the fourth data; generating fifth data using the processor, the fifth data including at least a distance identifier indicating the distance between the shooter and the at least two different-sized hoops, and wherein determining the score is also based at least in part on the fifth data; setting a ball return rate for providing the basketball to the shooter using the processor, and changing the return rate using the processor at least in part on the hit shot identifier; and generating a control signal for switching one of the at least two different-sized hoops to a different one of the at least two different-sized hoops based on a predetermined switching schedule or at least in part on the hit shot identifier.

[0009] In a third exemplary embodiment of the invention, a basketball shooting game controller with a variable-rate ball return device is disclosed. The controller may include a processor configured to determine whether a basketball has passed through at least one hoop and generate a shot-success identifier; and, based at least in part on the shot-success identifier, generate a control signal for changing the ball return rate of the variable-rate return device.

[0010] In some versions of a third exemplary embodiment, the processor may be configured to generate first data and second data, the first data including at least a hoop size identifier representing a first size from the at least one hoop, the second data including at least a hoop size identifier representing a second size from the at least one hoop, and wherein the generated control signal is also based at least in part on the first data and the second data. The processor may be configured to generate third data, the third data including at least a ball color identifier representing the color of the basketball, and wherein the generated control signal is also based at least in part on the third data. The ball color identifier may be a virtual ball color identifier. Furthermore, the processor can be configured to generate fourth and fifth data, the fourth data including at least a shooter identifier indicating which hand is using to shoot the basketball, and wherein the generated control signal is also at least partially based on the fourth data, the fifth data including at least a distance identifier indicating the distance between the shooter and the at least two different sized hoops, and wherein the generated control signal is also at least partially based on the fifth data.

[0011] FIG1 is a top view of an exemplary three-sided basketball hoop configuration according to some embodiments.

[0012] FIG2 is a perspective view of an exemplary ball return device according to some embodiments.

[0013] FIG3 is an exemplary control diagram for a basketball game according to some embodiments.

[0014] FIG4 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a computer system that can be used to implement embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Description

[0015] It should be understood that embodiments include multiple aspects that can be combined in different ways. The following description is provided to list elements and describe some embodiments of the present application. These elements are listed together with the initial embodiments; however, it should be understood that they can be combined in any way and in any number to produce other embodiments. The examples and preferred embodiments described in the various descriptions should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of the present application to the systems, technologies and applications explicitly described. One or more specific embodiments shown are merely examples. This specification should be understood and is intended to support the broad claims and each embodiment, and even to support claims that may exclude other embodiments. It is important that this disclosure, which is merely an exemplary embodiment, does not imply limitation on the scope of other broader claims that may be made, in which the exemplary embodiment may only be one of several methods or embodiments that can be adopted. Furthermore, this specification should be understood to support and include all various embodiments, systems, technologies, methods, apparatuses, and applications of the specification and claims, which have any number of disclosed elements, each of which exists independently, and also any and all various permutations and combinations of all elements in this application or any subsequent application.

[0016] FIG1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a multi-basketball hoop assembly 1 (hereinafter also referred to as "hoop assembly") for shooting a basketball 2. The hoop assembly 1 and the basketball 2 may exist in physical or real space, or may exist virtually, for example, reproduced on a screen. For the sake of brevity, FIG1 will be discussed in the context of physical space, but those skilled in the art will understand that each element described herein with respect to this embodiment may also exist in virtual space. The hoop assembly 1 may include at least two hoops 10, including a first hoop 10a having a diameter Da, a second hoop 10b having a diameter Db, and a third hoop 10c having a diameter Dc. In this embodiment, each of the hoops 10 has a different diameter, but in other embodiments not shown, some or all of the hoops 10 may have the same diameter. In other embodiments not shown, at least two baskets 10 may include two baskets, four baskets, or more than four baskets. In some embodiments, Da may be 13 inches, Db may be 15 inches, and Dc may be 18 inches. In other embodiments, diameters Da, Db, and Dc may differ from these values.

[0017] The baskets 10 may be spaced at equal angles around a centrally located vertical axis 22.The rim 10 can be axially rotated by a stepper motor 24 about a vertical support assembly 20 including a vertical axis 22. The vertical axis 22 can be offset behind the fixed backboard 30 by a distance such that the rotation of the stepper motor 24 is configured to position the innermost portion of each rim 10 (relative to the vertical axis 22) horizontally at a predetermined fixed distance in front of the backboard 30. Further details regarding the mechanical structure of the rim assembly 1 can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 18 / 376,718, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0018] The rim assembly 1 may include a sensor 38 that provides sensor data 122 about game variables. For example, the sensor 38 may include one or more cameras 26, a tracking wristband 5, an encoder 34, and an optical sensor / mechanical lever 32. The camera 26 may be positioned to capture visual data about the position of the shooter 3 relative to the backboard 30. Specifically, it can be configured to measure the distance 40 between the shooter 3 and the basket 10. In some embodiments, two or more cameras 26 positioned at different angles may be configured for this purpose. A tracking wristband 5 may be located on the wrist of the shooter 3 to help determine which hand 41 (left hand 4b or right hand 4a) is shooting the basketball 2. The tracking wristband 5 may be equipped with an accelerometer and / or a wireless transmitter (e.g., RF-ID) to help identify hand movements and positions. Additionally or alternatively, the tracking wristband 5 may include an optical indicator recognizable by the camera 26 to help the camera 26 identify the shooting hand 41. Furthermore, the camera 26 may be configured to determine the color or marking of the basketball 2. As an extension, the camera 26 may also be configured to track the basketball 2 after a shot and not only determine the attempted shot 46, but also whether the shot was made or missed. In addition to or in place of the camera 26, an optical sensor / mechanical lever 32 may be used to determine a successful shot 44. All basketballs shot by the player can pass through a funnel into a variable-rate return device 70 (Figure 2). Some details of the ball returnr 70 can be found in U.S. Patent No. 6,458,049, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, the ball returnr 70 may be configured with a second optical sensor / mechanical lever to count each returned basketball 2 and effectively count each attempted shot 46. The difference between the total attempted shots 46 and the shots made 44 provides data on the number of missed shots. The ball returnr 70 may return the basketball 2 at a ball return rate 47. The ball return rate 47 may be constant or controlled by the game engine software 50 discussed in more detail below.

[0019] The encoder 34 is configured to determine the angular position of the stepper motor 24 and effectively determine the angular position of the basket 10, thereby determining the specific basket (e.g., 10a to 10c) that the shooter 3 is shooting from.The specific hoop from which the shooter 3 shoots can be represented by the hoop size variable 42.

[0020] Returning to the ball color, the basketball 2 may include a standard brown ball, and in some embodiments, may include balls of different colors. As discussed in more detail below, balls of different colors may be represented by input variables having specified values ​​for each ball color. However, in a preferred embodiment, the basketball 2 may have a virtual ball color 43 assigned to it. For example, the game engine software 50 may determine that a particular ball at a particular time can be considered to have a virtual ball color 43 assigned to it. When this occurs, the game engine software 50 may notify the shooter 3 via the display 28, audio, and / or haptic signals that the upcoming ball has a virtual color assigned to it. The virtual colored ball may have modifiers associated with it, such as modifiers with higher values, multiples of values, ball return rates, and / or modifiers that may be detrimental to other players in face-to-face or team matches.

[0021] The hoop assembly 1 may exist as a single unit, or multiple hoop assemblies 1 may be positioned adjacent to each other. For example, two hoop assemblies 1 can be arranged side by side to allow competition between two shooters 3. In some embodiments, three or more hoop assemblies 1 can be positioned in a row to allow for team play of a single game or multiple simultaneous play.

[0022] Figure 2 provides a non-limiting example of a variable-rate return device 70 used with the hoop assemblies 1. The return device 70 may include a net 74 to catch all basketballs 2 that are shot, whether or not they are hit. The net 74 may taper downward toward a loop 74 to deliver the basketballs 2 onto a track system 76. The loop 74 may include a second optical sensor / mechanical lever (not shown) to count each returned basketball 2. The track system 76 may guide the basketballs 2 to a stop position 80 accessible to the shooter 3 to retrieve and shoot another basketball 2.

[0023] The track system 76 may be supported by a support frame 78 to allow the basketball 2 to roll controllably to the stop position 80 under the influence of gravity. The track system 76 may also be supported by a variable-height support frame 84 for adjusting the height of at least one variable track segment 76a. The height of the support frame 84 may be adjusted by one or more actuators 82. When the height of the support frame 84 is increased, the angle of the variable track segment 76a relative to the ground decreases, causing the basketball 2 to slowly roll back to the shooter 3. When the height of the support frame 84 is decreased, the angle of the variable track segment 76a relative to the ground increases, causing the basketball 2 to roll back to the shooter 3 more quickly. Therefore, the actuators 82 can accelerate or decelerate the ball return rate 47. The actuators 82 may include a linear encoder 86 to provide position data to the game engine software 50.In another embodiment (not shown), the track system may include an actuated gate, which may include an obstacle located between the tracks of the track system 76, which may be raised to prevent the basketball 2 from reaching the stop position 80 or lowered to allow it to pass. The ball return rate 47 may also be controlled by controlling the rate at which the actuated gate is raised and lowered.

[0024] FIG3 provides a non-limiting example of control and shot tracking diagrams for a basketball shooting game. Sensors 38 for each hoop assembly 1 may output combined sensor data 122, including data from the tracking wristband 5, camera 26, optical sensor / mechanical lever 32 and / or encoder 34, to a data acquisition unit 138. Based on the sensor data 122, the data acquisition unit 138 may output a first control signal 51 representing distance 40, shooter 41, hoop size 42, virtual ball color 43, successful shot 44, attempted shot 46, and any other virtual parameters 48 (e.g., badges and icons) created by the game engine software 50 to modify scores (similar to virtual ball color 43), time, etc. A first control signal 51 can be sent from the data acquisition unit 138 to the microcontroller 95. The microcontroller 95 can then send a second control signal 52 to the stepper motor controller 96 and a third control signal 49 to the ball return device 55 to set or change the ball return rate 47 using the ball return control signal 58, and display signal 36 on the display 28. A power supply 97 can provide power 98 to the stepper motor controller 96 and the ball return device 55. The stepper motor controller 96 can provide power 54 to the stepper motor 24, and may even provide a motor control signal 53 to the stepper motor 24, which can then provide a mechanical linkage 56 to provide the rotating component 57 of the rim assembly 1 and the attached basket 10. The ball return device 55 can provide power 58 to the actuator 82 and even the ball return control signal 58 to adjust the height of the track segment 76a and control the ball return rate 47. The microcontroller 95 may include game engine software 50.

[0025] This power supply and controller can provide the desired angular position in which the basket 10 can be positioned forward-facing in front of the backboard 30. The stepper motor 24 can divide the entire rotation into multiple equal steps, possibly utilizing the step angle and gearbox ratio. In some embodiments, the encoder 34 can be used to provide a closed-loop system. This can provide significantly improved speed smoothness, reduced total current consumption, higher torque at lower speeds, etc. The stepper motor 24 can use a phase technique of 200 full steps per revolution, which can be approximately 1.8 degrees per full step. In some embodiments, the stepper motor 24 can stop approximately every 50 steps in a four-sided basketball hoop configuration, or even approximately every 66 steps in a three-sided basketball hoop configuration.

[0026] FIG4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a computing device or computer system 100 that can be used to implement embodiments of the basketball hoop assembly 1 disclosed above. For example, the computing system 100 of FIG4 may be or include the microcontroller 95 discussed above. The computer system (system) includes one or more processors 102 to 106. Processors 102 to 106 may include one or more internal-level caches (not shown) and bus controllers or bus interface units to direct interaction with processor bus 112. Processor bus 112 (also referred to as host bus or front-side bus) may be used to connect processors 102 to 106 to system interface 114. System interface 114 may be connected to processor bus 112 to interface other components of system 100 with processor bus 112. For example, system interface 114 may include a memory controller 114 for interfaced main memory 116 to processor bus 112. Main memory 116 typically includes one or more memory cards and control circuitry (not shown). System interface 114 may also include input / output (I / O) interface 120 to interface one or more I / O bridges or I / O devices to processor bus 112. As shown, one or more I / O controllers and / or I / O devices (such as I / O controller 128 and I / O device 130) may be connected to I / O bus 126. Specification 5 / 21 page 8 CN 121219051 A

[0027] I / O device 130 may also include input devices (not shown), such as alphanumeric input devices, including alphanumeric and other keys for transmitting information and / or command selections to processors 102 to 106. Another type of user input device includes cursor control (e.g., mouse, trackball, or cursor arrow keys) for transmitting directional information and command selections to processors 102 to 106, and for controlling cursor movement on a display device. In addition, input devices may include joysticks or screen pads on a mobile device.

[0028] System 100 may include a dynamic storage device, or random access memory (RAM), or other computer-readable device coupled to processor bus 112, referred to as main memory 116, for storing information and instructions to be executed by processors 102 to 106. Main memory 116 may also be used to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during the execution of instructions by processors 102 to 106. System 100 may include read-only memory (ROM) and / or other static storage devices coupled to processor bus 112 for storing static information and instructions for processors 102 to 106. The system illustrated in FIG3 is only one possible example of a computer system that may be adopted or configured according to aspects of this disclosure.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the above-described techniques can be executed by computer system 100 in response to processor 104 executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions included in main memory 116. These instructions may be read into main memory 116 from another machine-readable medium (e.g., a storage device). Execution of the sequence of instructions included in main memory 116 may cause processors 102 to 106 to perform the processing steps described herein. In alternative embodiments, circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions. Thus, embodiments of this disclosure may include hardware and software components.

[0030] Machine-readable media include any mechanism for storing or transmitting information in a machine-readable form (e.g., software, processing applications). Such media may take the form of, but are not limited to, non-volatile and volatile media, and may include removable data storage media, non-removable data storage media, and / or external storage devices available with such computer program products (including one or more database management products, web server products, application server products, and / or other additional software components) via wired or wireless network architectures. Examples of removable data storage media include optical disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital universal optical disc read-only memory (DVD-ROM), magneto-optical disk, flash memory drives, etc. Examples of non-removable data storage media include internal magnetic hard disks, SSDs, etc. One or more memory devices may include volatile memory (e.g., dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), etc.) and / or non-volatile memory (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, etc.).

[0031] A computer program product including mechanisms for implementing systems and methods according to the currently described art may reside in main memory 416, which may be referred to as a machine-readable medium. It should be understood that a machine-readable medium may include any tangible non-transitory medium capable of storing or encoding instructions to perform any one or more operations of this disclosure executed by a machine, or capable of storing or encoding data structures and / or modules used by or associated with such instructions. Machine-readable media may include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and / or associated caches and servers) storing one or more executable instructions or data structures.

[0032] Embodiments of this application may involve a sampling space, which may be a set in which all possible results of a statistical experiment can be represented as unique permutations in a Gamespace.It can also involve a game space, which can be a set in which all possible permutations of shooting distance and even hoop diameter can be represented as datasets. Datasets can represent scores and can be used to avoid confusion in descriptions of possible game engine calculations that could actually determine the actual score of a shot. Each dataset can represent a unique combination of variables, such as, but not limited to, shooting distance 40 and hoop size 42 in a basketball shot. In some implementations, the larger the game space, the more datasets it can include. A larger game space can be created by adding more variables. Some variables may include, but are not limited to, additional physical properties of a basketball shot, such as the shooter 41, the actual color of the ball used to attempt the shot, whether the shot was successful 44, 46, etc. Other variables may include, but are not limited to, virtual properties (e.g., the virtual color of the basketball 43 electronically displayed on a monitor or telephone) and may include: virtual shooting distance, virtual hoop size, virtual ball color 43, virtual shooter, etc. It may be desirable to create enough combinations of variations to initiate an emergency game. Virtual shooting variables and physical shooting variables can be combined as discussed in more detail below.

[0033] Returning to Figure 3, the game engine software 50 can acquire the output first control signal 51 (including variables: distance 40, shooter 41, basket size 42, virtual ball color 43, successful shot 44, attempted shot 46, and virtual parameter 48) and generate identifiers such as distance identifier 90, shooter identifier 91, basket size identifier 92, ball color identifier including virtual ball color identifier 93, and successful / missed identifier including successful shot identifier 94. The game engine software 50 can acquire identifiers 90 to 94 and associate them with relevant saved data, such as the data shown in Tables 1-5 below. The game engine software 50 can use one or more of identifiers 90 to 94 to create data 99, which can be used by the processor 95 in creating control signals 36, 49, and 52. Data 99 can also be used to calculate scores, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0034] Specification 7 / 21 pages 10 CN 121219051 A

[0035] Shooting points can be positive; however, negative values ​​can be assigned to failed attempts, possibly as an opportunity to exploit the shooting mechanism. The hoop size 42 may be exploited through the multiplication principle with other variables. The shooter 41 can be assigned different point values ​​to the dominant or non-dominant hand. Badges and icons or other virtual parameters 48 can be displayed in the game. In addition to point values ​​or point multipliers, these can be used to manipulate the available time of the entire game or even subroutines within the main game.

[0036] In some embodiments, the values ​​may have additional values ​​that depend on the game engine software 50 deployed to utilize them. These values ​​may be the result of calculations by numerical operators, and may also depend on the target of the game engine software 50. In fact, the values ​​of the underlying variables can be changed according to the game engine. As a non-limiting example, simple numerical values ​​1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 can be assigned to distance variables (see Table 1); numerical values ​​1, 2, and 3 can be assigned based on three different hoop sizes (see Table 3); numerical values ​​1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 can be assigned based on the color of the virtual ball (see Table 4); any combination or arrangement, etc. In this embodiment, a shot at a distance of 5 with a virtual ball color of 5 and a minimum hoop diameter of 1 can provide a dataset with the numbers 3, 3, and 4 as its individual scores. Other embodiments may include a game engine that assigns values ​​based, for example, the original multiplication of three attribute values: for the exemplary values ​​36, 3 3 4. Other embodiments may include a game engine that assigns values ​​based on the sum of these identical scores. Another implementation can weight the individual scores based on variables, which can be defined as including different components of a basketball shot. Some implementations may include attributes that can also be considered sub-elements of the aforementioned variables.

[0037] In an implementation, the scoring mechanism may include a single shot distance variable, which is limited to three different score attributes, such as 1, 2, or 3. In some implementations, this lack of variability can be extremely detrimental to the development of complex games unless other game mechanics can be used. Additional game mechanics, such as defense, rebounding, passing, dribbling, speed, etc., can lead to complex gameplay. However, in some implementations, these variables can also dilute, disperse, and partially eliminate the original appeal of the shooting mechanism to the player. Additionally, they can convey an overwhelming competitive advantage to certain physical attributes and body properties, which can be extremely frustrating for competitors with the best pure shooting skills. Methods to significantly increase the size of the game space may have resulted in a more comprehensive isolation and utilization of the shooting mechanics (see page 8 / 21, CN 121219051 A), and may require creating a platform around which complex games can be built, perhaps by focusing solely on the shooting mechanics. Creating a larger game space technology platform by utilizing multiple basket diameters combined with different distance score attributes using the multiplication principle can significantly increase the available space around which complex game routines can be developed. Adding more variables and their associated attributes (such as the color of a virtual ball generated by the game engine, which is used in game calculations and displayed on monitors, smart devices, smartphones, etc.) could allow for the creation of even larger game spaces.

[0038] Distance can be a score variable, and any number of distance variables can be used as part of the game. It should be understood that any number of distance depictions are possible. In implementations, distance selection can be set by the player or may be generated by a game engine, etc. Approximately fifteen unique combinations utilizing distance variables and hoop diameter variables can be represented in the non-limiting examples in Tables 6 and 7. Table 8 provides three variables that result in approximately 75 unique combinations filling the game space.

[0039] In some implementations, the ability to change the hoop diameter can enable complex and urgent games by creating its initial combination permutations. Multiple hoop diameters can make it possible to create initial combination permutations that may be crucial in creating a large initial game space.

[0040] In some implementations, the output method may respond to the hoop diameter and may be reported to the game engine software 50 as a non-limiting example. In implementations, non-numerical values ​​can be assigned to certain variables, for example, via badges or icons. These may be beneficial in assigning certain attributes to game routines. For example, they can be used for game time management based on the main program, subroutines, etc. The main timing routine and sub-timing routines allow the game engine to control the pace of the game and may even create psychological tension. In some implementations, controlling the ball return rate 47 of the actual basketball shot can allow the game engine to control the pace of the game and even create psychological tension.

[0041] In other implementations, the game space can consist of all possible combinations of the attributes of the selected shooting variables, on which any number of game engines can access to create game routines.

[0042] The game engine software 50 can create a game space that includes all possible permutations of the variables in a particular game example. The game space can be a dataset created by combining elements of data from one of Tables 1-5 with other elements of data from another of Tables 1-5. For example, in a game space with the variables shooting distance and hoop size, a game space is created to capture all permutations of the data in Tables 1 and 3. This game space is shown in Table 6 below.

[0043]

[0044] In this example, a unique identifier for each possible combination of data identifiers is displayed next to the placeholder value of the multiplication. In another example shown in Table 7, the shooting distance and basket size are used to create the game space, but the total placeholder value is used. Specification 9 / 21 page 12 CN 121219051 A

[0045]

[0046] Tables 6 and 7 show possible scoring schemes where the relative values ​​of the temporary placeholder values ​​are added or multiplied. In some embodiments, the game engine software 50 may assign values ​​different from those shown in the temporary placeholder cells.As shown in the rightmost column of each of Tables 1-5, the values ​​generated by the game engine may have a non-linear relationship than the simply linearly increasing values ​​in the placeholder columns, and in other embodiments, the values ​​generated by the game engine may include predetermined values ​​based on data collected from game examples or AI-generated values. Furthermore, the game space may include more than two variables. For example, Table 8 shows the game space for shooting distance, basket size, and virtual ball color.

[0047]

[0048] The calculated values ​​in Table 8 may be the product of each temporary placeholder value (i.e., BD SD VC), the sum of each temporary placeholder value (i.e., BD+SD+VC), or a combination of two operations (e.g., BD(SD+VC)). In other embodiments, as shown in Table 11 / 21, the values ​​generated by the game engine for each dataset may be added together, multiplied together, or combinations thereof. Those skilled in the art will recognize that more complex formulas can be used to calculate the score for each unique identifier permutation.

[0049] Furthermore, the game space may include data from the shooter (Table 2), and made or missed shots (Table 5) or any arrangement of Tables 1-5. The application of a made or missed shot can simply be a multiplication of "0" or "1" with the score, depending on whether the shooter 3 made or missed the shot.

[0050] In other embodiments, the game engine software 50 may create a shooting record that includes the exemplary scoring scheme described above, as well as date and time codes. The game engine may store the shooting record in memory, including system memory or memory accessible to the shooter 3.

[0051] It can be readily understood from the foregoing that the basic concepts of various embodiments of the present invention can be embodied in a variety of ways. It includes both game routine techniques and means for implementing appropriate game routines. In this application, game routine techniques are disclosed as part of the results shown by the various means described, and as utilizing inherent steps. They are merely natural results of using the means as intended and in the manner described. Furthermore, while some apparatuses have been disclosed, it should be understood that these apparatuses not only implement certain methods but can also be modified in a variety of ways. It is important that all of these aspects be understood to be included in this disclosure.

[0052] The discussion included in this application is intended to serve as a basic description. The reader should recognize that the specific discussion may not explicitly describe all possible implementations; many alternatives are implicit. It may also not fully explain the general nature of the various embodiments of the invention and may not explicitly show how each feature or element can actually represent a broader function or multiple alternative or equivalent elements.As an example, degree terms, approximation terms, and / or relative terms may be used. These may include terms such as: essentially, about, only, etc. These terms and their types should be understood in a dictionary sense to include terms such as sufficient or considerable amount, quantity, size, etc., as well as primarily but not entirely including the specified term. Furthermore, for the purposes of this application, degree terms, approximation terms, and / or relative terms should be understood to also include more precise and even quantitative values, which include various levels of precision and the possibility of resolving numerous quantitative options and alternatives in the claims. For example, within the scope of final use, the presence or absence of a substance or condition in a particular input, output, or stage may be specified as essentially only x or essentially without x, specified as a value of about x, or other similar language. Using percentage values ​​as an example, these types of terms should be understood to encompass options for percentage values ​​that include 99.5%, 99%, 97%, 95%, 92%, or even 90% of a specified value or relative condition; correspondingly, for values ​​at the other end of the spectrum (e.g., substantially free of x), these should be understood to include options for percentage values ​​that include no more than 0.5%, 1%, 3%, 5%, 8%, or even 10% of a specified value or relative condition, all of which can be specified by volume or by weight). In this context, those skilled in the art will understand that these contents are disclosed and included, whether in absolute value form or by evaluating a group or substance by comparing the values ​​of a second group or substance. Likewise, these are implicitly included in this disclosure and should (and are considered) be understood by those skilled in the art. When this application is described in device-oriented terms, each element of the device implicitly performs a function. Device claims may include not only the described device but also method or process claims to address the function of the embodiment and the function performed by each element. The specification and terminology are not intended to limit the scope of the claims to be included in any subsequent patent application.

[0053] It should also be understood that various changes can be made without departing from the essence of the various embodiments of the invention. Such changes are also implicitly included in the specification. They still fall within the scope of the various embodiments of the invention. This disclosure covers a broad range of disclosures, including the explicit embodiments shown, various implicit alternative embodiments, and a wide range of methods or processes, which can be relied upon when drafting the claims of any subsequent patent application. It should be understood that such language changes to 15 CN 121219051 A on pages 12 / 21 of the specification and more extensive or detailed claims can be completed at a later date (e.g., before any specified deadline) or if the applicant subsequently seeks a patent application based on that application.Through this understanding, the reader should realize that this disclosure should be understood to support any subsequently filed patent application, for which the applicant has the right to seek examination of the most broad possible claim basis, and which subsequently filed patent application may be designed independently and as a whole system to produce patents covering multiple aspects of embodiments of the invention.

[0054] Furthermore, each of the various elements of the embodiments of the invention and the claims may also be implemented in a variety of ways. Additionally, when used or implied, an element should be understood to include single and multiple structures that may be physically connected or may not be physically connected. This disclosure should be understood to include each such variation, which may be a variation of any device embodiment, method or process embodiment, or even simply a variation of any element of these embodiments. In particular, it should be understood that since this disclosure relates to elements of various embodiments of the invention, the terminology for each element may be represented by equivalent device or method terms, even if only the function or result is the same. These equivalent, broader, or even more general terms should be considered to be included in the description of each element or action. These terms may be replaced where necessary to explicitly indicate the implied broad coverage of the embodiments of the invention. By way of example only, it should be understood that all actions can be represented as a device for taking the action or an element that causes the action. Similarly, each disclosed physical element should be understood as including the disclosure of the action facilitated by that physical element. Regarding the last aspect, by way of example only, the disclosure of "shot" should be understood as including the disclosure of the action of "shooting" (whether or not explicitly discussed), and conversely, if the action of "shooting" is effectively disclosed, such disclosure should be understood as including "shooting" and even "the device for shooting". Such changes and substitutions of terminology should be understood as being explicitly included in the specification. Furthermore, each such device (whether or not explicitly described) should be understood as including all elements capable of performing a given function, and all descriptions of the elements performing the described function should be understood as non-limiting examples of devices for performing that function. As other non-limiting examples, it should be understood that claim elements may also be represented as any of the following: components, programming, subroutines, logic, or elements configured or arranged to provide or even achieve a particular result, use, purpose, situation, function, or operation, or components capable of achieving a particular activity, result, use, purpose, situation, function, or operation. All of these should be understood to be within the scope of this disclosure and written description.

[0055] Any patents, publications, or other references mentioned in this patent application are incorporated herein by reference. Any priority claims claimed in this application are appended herein and incorporated by reference.Furthermore, for each term used, it should be understood that, unless its use in this application is inconsistent with a widely supported interpretation, the general dictionary definition should be understood to be included in each term, and all definitions, alternative terms, and synonyms, such as those included in the second edition of Random House Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, are incorporated herein by reference. Finally, all references listed in the following list or other informational statements submitted with this application are appended and incorporated herein by reference; however, with respect to each of the above, such information or statements incorporated by reference may be considered to be inconsistent with the patentability of various embodiments of the invention, and such statements are clearly not considered to have been made by the applicant.

[0056] Finally, all references listed in the list of references incorporated by reference, or other informational statements submitted with the application, are appended hereby and incorporated by reference; however, for each of the above, such information or statements incorporated by reference may be considered to be inconsistent with the patentability of the invention, and such statements are clearly not considered to have been made by the applicant.

[0057] References incorporated by way of citation

[0058] I. U.S. Patent Specification 13 / 21 pages 16 CN 121219051 A

[0059] II. U.S. Patent Application Publication 14 / 21 pages 17 CN 121219051 A

[0060] III. Foreign Patent Documents

[0061] IV. Non-Patent Documents Specification 15 / 21 pages 18 CN 121219051 A

[0062] Therefore, the applicant should be understood to support the claims and make claims for embodiments that include at least the following: i) each score-keeping device as disclosed and described herein, ii) the related methods disclosed and described, iii) similar, equivalent, and even implied variations of each of these apparatuses and methods; iv) alternative designs that implement each function as disclosed and described; v) alternative designs and methods that implement each function as disclosed and described; vi) each feature, component, and step shown as a separate and independent invention; vii) applications enhanced by the various systems or components disclosed; viii) products resulting from such processes, methods, systems, or components; ix) each system, method, and element as now shown or described that is applied to any particular field or apparatus mentioned; x) methods and apparatus that are substantially as described above and with reference to any of the accompanying drawings; xi) apparatus for performing the methods described herein, including means for performing the following steps; xii) various combinations and arrangements of each element disclosed; xiii) each potential dependent claim or concept as dependent on each of the proposed independent claims or concepts; and xiv) all inventions described herein on pages 16 / 21 of the specification, 19 CN 121219051 A.

[0063] Furthermore, regarding the computer aspects and each aspect suitable for programming or other electronic automation, it should be understood that in characterizing these and all other aspects of the various embodiments of the invention, whether characterized as apparatus, capability, element, or otherwise, all of these can be implemented by software, hardware, or even firmware structures configured for general-purpose computers, programmable chips or chipsets, ASICs, dedicated controllers, subroutines, logic, or other known programmable or circuit-specific structures. It should be understood that all of these aspects are at least structurally defined, as will be well recognized by those skilled in the art, including: hardware circuitry, firmware, programmable dedicated components, and even general-purpose computers programmed to implement the identified aspects.For such projects implemented with programmable features, the applicant should be understood to support the claims and at least make the following statements regarding the invention: xv) a process performed with or on a computer, machine, or computing machine as described above; xvi) a programmable device as described above; xvii) a computer-readable storage device encoded with data to direct a computer including means or elements functioning as described above; xviii) a computer, machine, or computing machine configured as disclosed and described herein; xix) individual or combined subroutines, processor logic, and / or programs as disclosed and described herein; xx) a carrier medium carrying computer-readable code for controlling the computer to perform each individual and combined method described herein or in any claim; xxi) a computer program that performs each disclosed individual and combined method individually; xxii) all and each combination of means for performing each disclosed individual and combined step. Computer programs, xxiii) storage media storing each of the disclosed computer programs, xxiv) signals carrying the disclosed computer programs, xxv) processors executing instructions for implementing detailed steps and activities, xxvi) circuit configurations (including configurations of transistors, gates, etc.) for sequencing detailed actions and / or causing detailed actions, xxvii) computer-readable media storing instructions to perform detailed steps and cause detailed activities, xxviii) related methods disclosed and described, xxix) similar, equivalent, or even implicit variations of each of these systems and methods, xxx) those alternative designs implementing each function shown as disclosed and described, xxxi) alternative designs and methods implementing each function shown that implicitly implement the functions disclosed and described, xxxii) each feature, component, and step shown as a separate and independent invention, and xxxiii) various combinations of each of the foregoing and any other aspects, all of which do not limit other aspects.

[0064] Furthermore, the applicant should be understood to support the claims and make a declaration of the invention, which may include claims for: - a basketball scoring system based on a combination of attributes from shooting variables.

[0065] - The score of a basketball shot is determined using multiple input variables.

[0066] - When calculating the score, a combination of shooting distance and basketball hoop diameter is used.

[0067] - When calculating the score, a combination of shooting distance, basketball diameter, and virtual ball color is used.

[0068] - Mathematical operators are applied between the basketball shot variable and its subset of attributes with different score values, and another set of shot variables and their subsets.

[0069] - The ability to weight variables and their related attributes according to instructions received from the game engine.

[0070] - Any of the above elements or any permutation or combination of the above elements.

[0071] The terms of the potential assertion include: 1. A basketball shooting game system having at least two different-sized hoops configured to receive a shot basketball from a shooter, the system comprising: a processor configured to: determine whether the basketball has passed through one of the at least two different-sized hoops and generate a hit shot identifier; and generate a plurality of data; a first data generated from the processor, the first data including at least a hoop size identifier representing a hoop of a first size from the at least two different-sized hoops; a second data generated from the processor, the second data including at least a hoop size identifier representing a hoop of a second size from the at least two different-sized hoops; and a display configured to display a numerical value representing a score, wherein the score is based at least in part on the hit shot identifier, the first data, and the second data.

[0072] 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising third data generated from the processor, the third data including at least a ball color identifier indicating the color of the basketball, and wherein the score is also based at least in part on the third data.

[0073] 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the ball color identifier is a virtual ball color identifier.

[0074] 4. The system of claim 1, 2 or 3, further comprising fourth data generated from the processor, the fourth data including at least a shooter identifier indicating which hand shot the basketball, and wherein the score is also based at least in part on the fourth data.

[0075] 5. The system of any one of claims 1-4, further comprising fifth data generated from the processor, the fifth data including at least a distance identifier indicating the distance between the shooter and the at least two different sized hoops, wherein the score is also based at least in part on the fifth data.

[0076] 6. The system of any one of Clauses 1-5, wherein the score is multivariate and predetermined based on a game space representing each possible score outcome for each possible input variable.

[0077] 7. The system of Clause 6, wherein the game space is configured to change during gameplay based on any input variable.

[0078] 8. The system of Clause 6, wherein the game space is configured to change during gameplay based on a machine learning algorithm that analyzes any data associated with the score.

[0079] 9. The system of any one of claims 1-8 further includes a variable-rate return device configured to deliver a basketball to the shooter at a return rate, wherein the return rate is changed at least in part due to the hit shot identifier.

[0080] 10. The system of any one of claims 1-9 further includes a mechanism for switching one of the at least two different-sized hoops to a different one of the at least two different-sized hoops based on a predetermined switching schedule or at least in part due to the hit shot identifier.

[0081] 11. A method for controlling one aspect of a basketball shooting game system, the basketball shooting game system having at least two different-sized hoops configured to receive a shot of a basketball from a shooter, the method comprising: determining, using a processor, whether a basketball has passed through one of the at least two different-sized hoops, and generating a hit identifier; generating, using the processor, first data, the first data including at least a basket size identifier representing a first-sized hoop from the at least two different-sized hoops; generating, using the processor, second data, the second data including at least a basket size identifier representing a second-sized hoop from the at least two different-sized hoops; determining a score, using the processor, at least in part based on the hit identifier, the first data, and the second data; and displaying the score using a display.

[0082] 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: generating third data using the processor, the third data including at least a ball color identifier indicating the color of the basketball, and wherein determining the score is also based at least in part on the third data.

[0083] 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the ball color identifier is a virtual ball color identifier.

[0084] 14. The method of any one of claims 11-13, further comprising: generating fourth data using the processor, the fourth data including at least a shooter identifier indicating which hand shot the basketball, and wherein determining the score is also based at least in part on the fourth data.

[0085] 15. The method of any one of claims 11-14, further comprising: generating fifth data using the processor, the fifth data including at least a distance identifier indicating the distance between the shooter and the at least two different sized hoops, and wherein determining the score is also based at least in part on the fifth data.

[0086] 16. The method of any one of Clauses 11-15, further comprising: using the processor to set a ball return rate for providing the basketball to the shooter, and using the processor to change the return rate at least in part based on the hit shot identifier.

[0087] 17. The method of any one of Clauses 11-16, further comprising: generating a control signal for switching one of the at least two different-sized hoops to a different one of the at least two different-sized hoops based on a predetermined switching schedule or at least in part based on the hit shot identifier.

[0088] 18. The method of any one of Clauses 11-17, wherein the score is multivariable and predetermined based on a game space representing each possible score outcome for each possible input variable.

[0089] 19. The system of Clause 18, wherein the game space is configured to change based on any input variable during the game.

[0090] 20. The system of claim 18, wherein the game space is configured to change during gameplay based on a machine learning algorithm that analyzes any data associated with the score.

[0091] 21. A basketball shooting game controller with a variable-rate return ball device, the controller comprising: a processor configured to: determine whether a basketball has passed through at least one hoop and generate a hit shot identifier; and generate a control signal for changing the ball return rate of the variable-rate return ball device, based at least in part on the hit shot identifier.

[0092] 22. The controller of claim 21, wherein the processor is further configured to generate first data and second data, the first data including at least a hoop size identifier representing a first size of the hoop from the at least one hoop, the second data including at least a hoop size identifier representing a second size of the hoop from the at least one hoop, and wherein the generated control signal is also based at least in part on the first data and the second data.

[0093] 23. The controller of claim 21 or 22, wherein the processor is further configured to generate third data, the third data including at least a ball color identifier representing the color of the basketball, and wherein the generated control signal is at least partially based on the third data.

[0094] 24. The controller of claim 23, wherein the ball color identifier is a virtual ball color identifier.

[0095] 25. The controller as described in any one of Clauses 21-24, wherein the processor is further configured to generate fourth data, the fourth data including at least a shooter identifier indicating which hand is shooting the basketball, and wherein the generated control signal is also at least partially based on the fourth data.

[0096] 26. The controller as described in any one of Clauses 21-25, wherein the processor is further configured to generate fifth data, the fifth data including at least a distance identifier indicating the distance between the shooter and the at least two different sized hoops, and wherein the generated control signal is also at least partially based on the fifth data.

[0097] For claims to be examined now or later, it should be understood that, for practical reasons, in order to avoid significantly increasing the examination burden, the applicant may at any time file only the initial claim, or perhaps only the initial claim and the initial dependent claim. Officials and any third parties interested in the potential scope of this application or any subsequent application should understand that, in this case, and in claiming the benefit of this case, a broader claim may be presented at a later date, or in any continuation, regardless of any preliminary modifications, other modifications, claim language, or arguments presented, and therefore, during the pending period of any case, there is no intention to reject or abandon any potential subject matter. It should be understood that if or when a broader claim is presented, this may require a re-examination of any relevant prior art that might have been considered at any prior time, as it is possible that any modifications, claim language, or arguments presented in this or any subsequent application may be deemed to avoid such prior art to the extent that these reasons could be eliminated by later-presented claims, etc. Examiners and any persons interested in existing or subsequent potential coverage, or considering any possibility that at any time there is an indication of rejection or abandonment of potential coverage, should be aware that no such rejection or abandonment is ever intended or present in this application or any subsequent application. The limitations arising in cases such as Hakim v. Cannon Avent Group, PLC, 479 F.3d 1313 (Fed. Cir 2007) are expressly not applicable to this case or any subsequent related matters. Furthermore, support should be understood to exist to the extent required by the new matter law, including but not limited to Article 123(2) of the European Patent Convention and Article 132 of Volume 35 of the U.S. Patent Act or other such laws, to allow the addition of any various dependencies or other elements proposed under an independent claim or concept to any other independent claim or concept.When drafting any claim at any time, whether in this application or any subsequent application, it should also be understood that the applicant has intended to obtain full and extensive legally available coverage. In cases where non-substantial substitutions are made, where the applicant has not actually drafted any claims to literally cover any particular embodiment, and in other applicable circumstances, the applicant should not be construed as intending or actually waiving such coverage in any way, as the applicant may not simply anticipate all events; it should not be reasonably expected that a person skilled in the art has drafted a claim that literally includes these alternative embodiments.

[0098] Furthermore, if or when used, the transitional phrases “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” “characterized in,” and “having” are used to maintain the “open-ended” claims herein, in accordance with conventional claim interpretation (including those discussed in MPEP §2111.03). Therefore, unless the context otherwise requires, the terms “comprise” or variations thereof (such as “comprises”, “comprising”), “include” or variations thereof (such as “includes” or “including”), “contain” or variations thereof (such as “contains” and “containing”), “characterized by” or variations thereof (such as “characterizing by”), and “have” or variations thereof (such as “has” or “having)”) mean to include the stated element or step, or a group of elements or steps, but do not exclude any other element or step, or a group of elements or steps. These terms should be interpreted in their broadest form to provide the applicant with the broadest coverage permitted by law. The phrase "or any other claim" is used to support any claim as being subordinate to any other claim, such as another dependent claim, another independent claim, a previously listed claim, a subsequently listed claim, etc. As a clear example, if a claim is "subordinate to claim 9 or any other claim," it can be restated to be subordinate to claim 1, claim 8, or even claim 11 (if any) if necessary, and still fall under this disclosure.It should be understood that this phrase also provides support for any combination of elements in the claims, and even includes any appropriate reference basis required for certain combinations of claims (such as combinations of claims for methods, apparatus, processes, etc.).

[0099] Finally, any claim set forth at any time is incorporated by reference into this specification as a part of various embodiments of this application, and the applicant expressly reserves the right to use all or part of the incorporated content of these claims as additional description to support any or all of the claims or any element or component thereof, and the applicant also expressly reserves the right, if necessary, to move any part or all of the incorporated content of these claims or any element or component thereof from the specification to the claims, or vice versa, to limit the matters sought to be protected by this application or any subsequent continuation, division or continuation in part of the application, or to obtain or comply with any benefit of fee reduction or fee reduction under the patent law, regulations or ordinance of any country or treaty, and such content incorporated by reference shall remain in force throughout the pending period of this application, including any subsequent continuation, division, continuation in part of the application or any republication or extension thereof. Instruction manual 21 / 21 pages 24 CN 121219051 A Figure 1 Instruction manual drawing 1 / 4 pages 25 CN 121219051 A Figure 2 Instruction manual drawing 2 / 4 pages 26 CN 121219051 A Figure 3 Instruction manual drawing 3 / 4 pages 27 CN 121219051 A Figure 4 Instruction manual drawing 4 / 4 pages 28 CN 121219051 A.

Claims

1. A basketball shooting game system having at least two hoops of different sizes, the hoops being configured to receive a shot basketball from a shooter, the system comprising: The processor is configured as follows: Determine whether the basketball has passed through one of the at least two different sized hoops and generate a shot hit identifier; as well as Generate multiple data sets; The first data generated from the processor includes at least a basket size identifier representing a first size of the basket from the at least two different sizes of baskets; The second data generated from the processor includes at least a basket size identifier representing a second size of the basket from the at least two different sizes of baskets; as well as The display is configured to show a numerical value representing a score, wherein the score is based at least in part on the hit shot identifier, the first data, and the second data.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising third data generated from the processor, the third data including at least a ball color identifier, the ball color identifier representing the color of the basketball, and wherein, The score is also based, at least in part, on the third data.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein, The ball color identifier is a virtual ball color identifier.

4. The system of claim 1, further comprising fourth data generated from the processor, the fourth data including at least a shooter identifier indicating which hand shot the basketball, and wherein, The score is also based, at least in part, on the fourth set of data.

5. The system of claim 1, further comprising fifth data generated from the processor, the fifth data including at least a distance identifier representing the distance between the shooter and the at least two rims of different sizes, wherein, The score is also based, at least in part, on the fifth data.

6. The system of claim 1, further comprising a variable-rate return device configured to provide a basketball to the shooter at a return rate, wherein, The return rate is changed at least in part due to the hit shot identifier.

7. The system of claim 1 further includes a mechanism for switching one of the at least two different-sized hoops to a different one of the at least two different-sized hoops based on a predetermined switching schedule or at least in part on the hit shot identifier.

8. A method for controlling a basketball shooting game system, the basketball shooting game system having at least two hoops of different sizes, the hoops being configured to receive a shot basketball from a shooter, the method comprising: The processor determines whether the basketball has passed through one of the at least two different sized hoops and generates a shot identification identifier; The processor generates first data, which includes at least a basket size identifier representing a first size of the basket from the at least two different sizes of baskets; The processor generates second data, which includes at least a basket size identifier representing a second size of the basket from the at least two different sizes of baskets; The score is determined using the processor based at least in part on the hit shot identifier, the first data, and the second data; as well as The score is displayed on a monitor.

9. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: The processor generates third data, which includes at least a ball color identifier representing the color of the basketball, and the score is determined at least in part based on the third data.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The ball color identifier is a virtual ball color identifier.

11. The method of claim 8, further comprising: The processor generates fourth data, which includes at least a shooter identifier indicating which hand shot the basketball, and the determination of the score is also based at least in part on the fourth data.

12. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: The processor generates fifth data, which includes at least a distance identifier representing the distance between the shooter and the at least two rims of different sizes, and the determination of the score is also based at least in part on the fifth data.

13. The method of claim 8, further comprising: The processor is used to set the ball return rate for providing the basketball to the shooter, and the processor is used to change the return rate at least in part based on the hit shot identifier.

14. The method of claim 8, further comprising: Based on a predetermined switching schedule or at least in part on the hit shot identifier, a control signal is generated for switching one of the at least two different sized hoops to a different one of the at least two different sized hoops.

15. A basketball shooting game controller with a variable-rate ball return device, the controller comprising: The processor is configured as follows: Determine whether the basketball has passed through at least one hoop and generate a shot confirmation identifier; as well as Based at least in part on the hit shot identifier, a control signal is generated to change the ball return rate of the variable-rate returner.

16. The controller according to claim 15, wherein, The processor is further configured to generate first data and second data, the first data including at least a basket size identifier representing a first size of the basket from the at least one basket, the second data including at least a basket size identifier representing a second size of the basket from the at least one basket, and wherein the generated control signal is also at least partially based on the first data and the second data.

17. The controller according to claim 15, wherein, The processor is further configured to generate third data, which includes at least a ball color identifier representing the color of the basketball, and wherein the generated control signal is also at least partially based on the third data.

18. The controller according to claim 17, wherein, The ball color identifier is a virtual ball color identifier.

19. The controller according to claim 15, wherein, The processor is also configured to generate fourth data, which includes at least a shooter identifier indicating which hand is shooting the basketball, and wherein the generated control signal is at least partially based on the fourth data.

20. The controller according to claim 15, wherein, The processor is also configured to generate fifth data, which includes at least a distance identifier representing the distance between the shooter and the at least two rims of different sizes, and wherein the generated control signal is also based at least in part on the fifth data.

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