Connected Yo-Yo

Abstract

The yo-yo has at least one sensor configured to measure parameters related to the movement of the yo-yo and a transmitter configured to transmit the measured parameters to a computing device. The processor is configured to determine the position of the yo-yo relative to the reference device based on signals transmitted between the yo-yo and the reference device. The server is configured to determine tricks performed with the yo-yo based on the measured parameters and communicate the determination to one or more computing devices of various players.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] background Spinning devices such as yo-yos, diabolos, Frisbees, spinning tops, and dreidels provide entertainment to their players through their movement and ability to perform tricks. FIG. 1 shows an exemplary yo-yo 100. The exemplary yo-yo 100 has a body with two shells 102, 104 connected by an axle 106. Although not shown, a string is wound around the axle 106 and is used to control the spin of the yo-yo 100. For example, the yo-yo can be wound on and unwound at the end of the string, wound up and down, and spun at the end of the string. While spinning, throws, flips, and twists of the yo-yo 100 around and over the string can perform further tricks. However, this entertainment is limited in time and space to the player and those nearby who can see the player.

[0002] overview According to one example of the present disclosure, a system includes a yo-yo having two shells connected by an axis and a sensor housed in one of the two shells, the first sensor being configured to measure a parameter related to the movement of the yo-yo; a reference device; and a processor configured to determine the position of the yo-yo relative to the reference device based on a signal transmitted between the yo-yo and the reference device or based on the strength of a magnetic field (field intensity) between the yo-yo and the reference device.

[0003] In various embodiments of the above example, the reference device is a wearable device. The reference device is a ring, and the processor is configured to determine the position of the yo-yo relative to the ring based on the strength of the ring's magnetic field detected by the yo-yo. The reference device is a smartwatch, and the processor is configured to determine the position of the yo-yo relative to the smartwatch based on the power, time of flight, or phase shift of signals transmitted between the yo-yo and the smartwatch. The processor is housed within the yo-yo. The processor is housed within the reference device. The yo-yo further comprises a processor, a memory, and a transmitter, and the processor is further configured to collect measured parameters related to the movement of the yo-yo from the sensor while the yo-yo is not in wireless communication with the computing device, store the collected measured parameters in memory, and cause the transmitter to transmit the stored measured parameters to the computing device after establishing wireless communication with the external computing device. The reference device is a computing device. And / or the yo-yo, reference device, and computing device are each separate devices that all wirelessly communicate with each other.

[0004] According to another example, a method includes measuring parameters related to the movement of a yo-yo having shells connected by an axis with a sensor housed within the shell of the yo-yo, and determining the position of the yo-yo relative to a reference device by determining the power, time of flight or phase shift of a signal transmitted between the yo-yo and the reference device, or by determining the magnetic field strength of the reference device relative to the yo-yo.

[0005] In various embodiments of the above example, the reference device is a finger ring and the position of the yo-yo is determined based on a determined magnetic field strength of the reference device relative to the yo-yo. The reference device is a smartwatch and the position of the yo-yo is determined based on a determined power, time of flight, or phase shift of a signal transmitted between the yo-yo and the smartwatch. The method further includes storing the measured parameters in a memory of the yo-yo while the yo-yo is not in wireless communication with the computing device, and transmitting the stored measured parameters to the computing device after establishing wireless communication with the external computing device. And / or the computing device is the reference device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1A and 1B are front and perspective views of an exemplary yo-yo; [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary system architecture of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] 1 illustrates an exemplary operation of a motion tracking sensor. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary yo-yo with an exploded view of the elements included in the yo-yo. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary yo-yo of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 5 illustrates a first shell of the exemplary yo-yo of FIG. 4. [Figure 7] FIG. 5 illustrates a second shell of the exemplary yo-yo of FIG. 4. [Figure 8] 1A-1C illustrate exemplary user interface elements of a yo-yo of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a side view of the interior of an exemplary yo-yo shell.

[0007] Detailed Description of the Drawings In view of the above, the present disclosure relates to "smart" yo-yos and similar spinning devices and corresponding "connected" computing devices (e.g., computers or mobile phones having processors, memory, displays, etc.) that together can detect movements and tricks and facilitate virtual entertainment for the spinning devices. For example, the system described herein allows players to simultaneously perform and watch the performances of other players when the players are in different locations. This can be accomplished, for example, by the system architecture shown in FIG. 2.

[0008] According to the example of FIG. 2, each player has their own yo-yo (or similar spinning device) 200, 210 and an associated computing device 202, 212. While FIG. 2 depicts two players, the present disclosure is not so limited and may include any number of players. Furthermore, while the following description refers to yo-yos, it is understood that the present disclosure is not so limited and may apply to any spinning device. Each player's computing device 202, 212 may be a personal mobile phone, tablet, computer, etc. running an app or similar software on any platform (e.g., ANDROID®, IOS®, WINDOWS®, etc.). The computing devices 202, 212 are connected to their corresponding yo-yos 200, 210 and to each other (the computing devices of the other players). Connections between devices may occur via a "cloud" network 220 (e.g., a wireless communication network or the Internet) or via short-range and / or low-power communication protocols (e.g., BLUETOOTH® (and BLUETOOTH LOW ENERGY® (BLE)), Near Field Communication (NFC), Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), etc.). For example, each yo-yo 200, 210 may be connected to a corresponding computing device 202, 212 via BLUETOOTH® (or BLE), and each computing device 202, 212 may be connected to each other via the Internet.

[0009] To directly connect the yo-yo 200, 210 to the computing device 202, 212, the yo-yo may include a code or tag (e.g., a QR code and / or an NFC or RFID tag) located on the surface of the yo-yo 200, 210. In some embodiments, the tag may be retained within the yo-yo 200, 210 (e.g., within the shell housing) because the tag can be detected wirelessly without line of sight. These codes and tags can be scanned by the computing device 202, 212 to connect to the yo-yo 200, 210 and set up (e.g., automatically or by directing the user to appropriate configuration settings on the user interface of the yo-yo 200, 210 or the computing device 202, 212). In some examples, the code may be displayed as a sticker on the yo-yo 200, 210. The sticker may be peelable, allowing it to be removed after the initial connection.

[0010] The system may also include one or more central servers and / or databases 230 to which each player's computing device 202, 212 and / or yo-yos 200, 210 is connected via network 220. The central server 230 may facilitate communication between the player's computing devices 202, 212 and / or yo-yos 200, 210 and facilitate processing of data collected by the computing devices 202, 212 and / or captured by the yo-yos 200, 210.

[0011] According to this architecture, data captured by the yo-yos 200, 210 related to their movement and position may be shared among all devices and players. For example, Player 1's yo-yo 200 may capture movement data (e.g., revolutions per minute) during use and transmit that data via BLUETOOTH® (or BLE) to Player 1's computing device 202. Player 1's computing device 202 may then process some or all of the data and / or transmit some or all of the data via the Internet 220 to a central server 230 for processing. In some embodiments, the yo-yos 200, 210 may also perform some processing of the captured movement data. Such processing may identify and / or score yo-yo movements and tricks performed by Player 1 based on the detected movement data. The processed data may then be transmitted from the central server 230 or player 1's computing device 202 to player 2's computing device 212 for output (e.g., display and / or audio), thereby allowing player 2 to recognize player 1's activities. Results of the data processing performed by the central server 230 are also transmitted back to player 1's computing device 202. Each computing device 202, 212 may then display a display corresponding to the detected moves and tricks. For example, the moves and tricks detected by player 1 may be virtually animated on any player's computing device 202, 212. In some embodiments, the processed data may also be used to control a computing device, for example, by controlling inputs for playing a game.

[0012] Although not shown, some players may also have cameras (e.g., as part of computing devices 202, 212) for capturing images and / or video of the yo-yos 200, 210 and / or the players. Images and / or video from the players' cameras may also be transmitted over network 220 for other players and / or spectators to view on their own computing devices.

[0013] Each yo-yo 200, 210 preferably includes at least one sensor for detecting movement and at least one transmitter (or transceiver) for communicating with an associated computing device. In some embodiments, the sensor and / or transmitter may include a registration tag that uniquely identifies the yo-yo. Additionally, each player may have a registered account (e.g., maintained on the central server 230) associated with their device. Thus, each device is registered to a particular player (or player account). When registered to a particular player, that player can access recorded data, usage history, etc. associated with that device via any computing device by logging into their account (e.g., via an app) on their computing device 202, 212.

[0014] In some embodiments, registration can also be used to authenticate the yo-yo 200, 210. For example, the registered tag may be compared to a database of known tags (e.g., maintained on the central server 230) associated with authentically manufactured devices. If a player attempts to register an inauthentic device to their account, the device will be rejected by the system.

[0015] As alluded to above, during operation, the sensors measure movement information of the yo-yos 200, 210, and via the transmitters, the yo-yos 200, 210 transmit the measured movement information to their corresponding connected computing devices. The computing devices 202, 212 can then further process the detected information and further communicate with other players' computing devices and / or the central server 230 via the network 220. The transmitters are preferably low-power transmitters of any type. For example, the transmitters can utilize the BLUETOOTH® (or BLE) communication protocol to communicate with the computing devices 202, 212.

[0016] The sensors may be gyrometers, accelerometers, force / pressure sensors, positioning sensors (e.g., GPS), motion tracking sensors, timers, time-of-flight sensors, light reflectance sensors, radar sensors, ultrasonic sensors, microwave sensors, magnetometers, Hall Effect sensors, BLUETOOTH® sensors, RFID sensors, NFC sensors, wearable sensors (e.g., smartwatches, fitness trackers, and / or rings), etc. The sensors are preferably capable of measuring speed, revolutions per minute (RPM), rotational / angular velocity and / or linear (linear) velocity, and / or acceleration, distance traveled, rotation time, time in a "sleep" state, number of turns, turn angle, number of contact points with the string, position, movement, and similar dynamic characteristics indicative of the player's skill and / or tricks performed with the yo-yo 200, 210. In some embodiments, the sensors may be the same sensor or an array of different sensors. For example, the sensor may comprise a multi-axis accelerometer (eg, having multiple individual accelerometers arranged to measure six degrees of motion, including three rotational degrees and three linear degrees of motion).

[0017] Once transmitted from the yo-yo 200, 210 to the corresponding computing device 202, 212, the measurements can be further processed to identify, for example, the speed of the throw along the length of the string, the length of the throw, rotational / angular and / or linear acceleration / deceleration and / or speed over a period of time, the number of turns of the yo-yo at various angles (e.g., turns greater than 90°, turns greater than 180°, and turns greater than 360°), the number of times the spinning device is fully extended, the number of times the yo-yo shaft contacts the string during a spin, etc. Identification of some parameters can also be based on measurements from multiple sensors. For example, a combination of measurements from a rotation sensor and an accelerometer can be used to identify relative motion in space (e.g., whether the spinning device is moving up and down, or simply "sleeping" when the rotational speed of both movements is similar). The position on the string and the direction of movement on the string can be determined based on the measured RPM and / or time-of-flight sensor measurements.

[0018] Any sensor used to detect RPM should preferably be capable of detecting at least 2,500 RPM, and more preferably at least 8,000 RPM. Any sensor used to collect acceleration data should preferably be capable of detecting at least 4 G's of force. Any sensor used to collect angular velocity should preferably be capable of detecting at least 2,000° (degrees) per second.

[0019] An optical reflection sensor can be used to determine the RPM of the yo-yo 200, 210 by detecting each time the string on which the yo-yo 200, 210 is rotating passes the sensor. In one example, the photoelectric sensor may include a light emitter and a photodetector. The light emitter and photodetector may be included in a single module or may be separate (e.g., in different shells of the yo-yo 200, 210). The light emitter emits light, which is detected by the photodetector either directly, if the light emitter and photodetector are located in opposing shells, or as a reflection of light from the opposing shell, if the light emitter and photodetector are in the same module. The emitted light may be transmitted through the shell itself, or the shell may include a window in a position corresponding to the light emitter and photodetector. As the yo-yo 200, 210 rotates at the end of the string, the string passes through the light path, thus interrupting the detection of light by the photodetector. Each interruption in light corresponds to one rotation of the yo-yo 200, 210. To minimize the noise contribution of ambient light to the photodetectors, the photoelectric sensors may be located as close as possible to the axis, and / or the emitted and detected light of any optical sensors may be in the non-visible light spectrum so as not to be confused with ambient light.

[0020] A time-of-flight sensor may similarly utilize an emitter and detector for electromagnetic waves (e.g., ultrasound, radio frequency, microwave, infrared, or other light), or may utilize the radar effect, in which emitted waves are reflected from the ground (or a similar stationary object) and subsequently detected. The distance between the ground (or a similar stationary object) and the yo-yo 200, 210 can be determined based on the time between the emission of the wave and its detection, provided the speed at which the wave travels is known. Thus, a time-of-flight sensor allows the spatial position and spatial movement of the yo-yo 200, 210 (e.g., moving up or down the string or sleeping at a predetermined height) to be determined. To ensure that the emitted waves are directed toward the ground, the emitter may be controlled based on the output of an accelerometer, gyrometer, or similar sensor. In other words, the output of such a sensor is processed (either by the yo-yo 200, 210 or the corresponding computing device 202, 212) to determine the relative rotational orientation of the yo-yo 200, 210. When the rotational orientation of the yo-yo 200, 210 is determined to be such that the wave emitter is pointing toward the ground, the wave emitter is controlled to emit a wave pulse. In some embodiments, the time-of-flight sensor can be integrated with an optical reflection sensor. Similar to an optical reflection sensor, the shell can be transparent to light or similar emitted waves, or the shell can be provided with a window.

[0021] Movement can also be determined based on position sensors that can detect the actual position of the yo-yos 200, 210, or that can determine the relative position of the yo-yos 200, 210 with respect to a reference object (e.g., the player's hand or a fixed sensor), which then represents the movement of the yo-yos 200, 210 as a function of time.

[0022] In some examples, the motion tracker includes one or more visually trackable points, the positions of which can be detected by a camera on the computing device 202, 212. For example, as shown in FIG. 3 (showing a side view / side view of one shell of the yo-yo 100 of FIG. 1), distinct visual elements are located on the exterior surface of the body. By comparing the relative positions of these elements detected by the camera with their positions over time, the degree of motion of the rotating device 6 can be tracked. For example, comparing the relative positions of the star in FIG. 3 between time t1 and time t2 can indicate that the rotating device has rotated 90°.

[0023] In some examples, a wearable device, such as a smartwatch, fitness tracker, or ring, includes sensors that can be utilized to track the relative position of the yo-yo. For example, the yo-yo 200, 210 is connected to a smartwatch via Bluetooth, RF, NFC, IR (or similar light-based transmission), or similar communication protocol, and the smartwatch (or similar reference device) is at a known location (e.g., the player's wrist). The distance and location between the smartwatch and the yo-yo 200, 210 can be determined by analyzing signals transmitted between the yo-yo 200, 210 and the smartwatch. For example, the power of the signal received by the yo-yo 200, 210 or the wearable device may be inversely proportional to the distance between the two devices. In another example, the time between transmission of a signal at the yo-yo 200, 210 or the wearable device and reception of the signal at the other device can be used to determine distance based on the signal's propagation speed. In yet another example, frequency analysis of the signal can indicate relative speed and direction of movement (e.g., as a Doppler effect). Thus, location can be determined by either the yo-yos 200, 210 or the wearable device based on signals received by either the yo-yos 200, 210 or the wearable device and transmitted by the other of the yo-yos 200, 210 or the wearable device. The wearable device can further communicate with the computing device 202, 212, and thus transmit any signal information and / or analysis to the computing device 202, 212 for further processing. In some embodiments, the wearable device can be the computing device 202, 212.

[0024] In some examples, the position of the yo-yo 200, 210 can be determined based on the strength of the yo-yo's 200, 210's magnetic field using a magnetometer, Hall Effect sensor, or the like. In one exemplary embodiment, a magnetic device can be worn on a player's hand (e.g., as part of a ring, smartwatch, or other wearable device). Because the corresponding field strength detected by the magnetometer in the yo-yo 200, 210 is a function of the distance and orientation between the magnetometer and the magnetic device, the corresponding magnetic field signal from the magnetometer can be used to determine the position of the yo-yo 200, 210 (or the position of the magnetic device) relative to the player's hand. Furthermore, the magnetometer may be configured to collect information in multiple axes / dimensions. Thus, the magnetometer can provide attitude information for the yo-yo 200, 210. In other embodiments, the magnetometer can detect the surrounding magnetic field rather than the magnetic device worn by the player. While the surrounding field may be unknown, relative changes detected by the magnetometer can still be used to identify relative attitude information and changes thereto.

[0025] In accordance with the above, the yo-yo 200, 210 may first be calibrated to establish a baseline between the current position of the yo-yo 200, 210 and a reference object / reference position. For example, a baseline field or signal strength or power, transmission time, or similar parameter may be determined while the yo-yo 200, 210 is held in the player's hand (or at or near the reference position) and / or when the yo-yo is fully extended or at another known distance from the reference.

[0026] Because the above position information is relative to the position of the reference device, given known movement of the yo-yo 200, 210, the movement of the reference device can also be derived. For example, an accelerometer can be used to determine when the yo-yo 200, 210 is "asleep." Thus, any movement detected by the position sensor corresponds to movement of the player's hand (or other position of the reference sensor). Identifying such movement of the reference device can be useful for detecting tricks that require specific hand movements.

[0027] The sensors may be configured to distinguish between strings. For example, in addition to any sensors that may be located around the periphery of the yo-yo 200, 210, one or more sensors (e.g., one to four optical sensors evenly spaced at 90° intervals) may be located in the stem region of the yo-yo 200, 210. These sensors may be located in a portion of the shell of the yo-yo 200, 210 that forms an opening through which the stem is attached to the shell. The sensors may be optical sensors facing the stem (and the string around the stem) to detect the passage of the string through the yo-yo 200, 210, similar to the RPM detection described above. In some instances, RPM data collected at the stem may be more accurate than data determined by peripheral sensors. Such a sensor located at the stem may also detect the interaction of the string with the stem (or the string while it remains wound around the stem). Detecting string-to-string interactions helps identify tricks where the yo-yo 200, 210 interacts with the strings (e.g., overlaying or otherwise running in a track on the strings rather than being wrapped up or down the strings).

[0028] The weight of the sensors, transmitters, and other elements of the system is preferably evenly distributed three-dimensionally across the yo-yo 200, 210. For example, the sensors and transmitters may be evenly weight-distributed across both shells of the yo-yo 200, 210, or additional weight may be added to one shell of the yo-yo 200, 210. Preferably, the weight is also distributed angularly around the axis. By distributing the weight evenly, the yo-yo 200, 210 remains balanced and can rotate properly.

[0029] An exemplary yo-yo structure is shown in FIGS. 4-7. FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary yo-yo 400 with an exploded view of the elements contained within the shell 600 of the yo-yo 400. As shown in FIG. 4, all elements are contained within only one shell of the yo-yo 400 (or similar rotating device). In particular, the shell 600 houses a power source (such as a coin cell battery) 402, a light reflective sensor 404, and a motherboard 406. Depending on the sensors and transmitters used, the power source 402 may be a coin cell battery, a thin film battery, a lithium ion battery, or similar battery. In some embodiments, the battery may be rechargeable, for example, by the movement of the yo-yo 400 itself. In some embodiments, power may be provided passively through communication with the computing devices 202, 212, thus eliminating the need for an integrated power source 402. The battery is controlled by the motherboard 406 so that power is provided only when the powered sensors are in use and during communication, thereby extending battery life.

[0030] The motherboard 406 may be, for example, a printed circuit board on which a transceiver (e.g., a BLUETOOTH® or BLE communication module), a multi-axis accelerometer array, a DC / DC converter (for converting the power level provided by the power supply 402 to the level required to power the other elements), a USB connector, a processor, memory, etc. are mounted or embedded as one or more integrated circuits. The memory may store data collected by the sensors and / or data processed by the processor before (or after) transmission to a connected computing device. For example, data may be transmitted from the yo-yo 400 to a connected computing device only periodically (e.g., after a demonstration, a series of tricks, or a predetermined period of time), thereby limiting power consumption and increasing battery life. Thus, sensor data may be stored in memory between transmissions. If some or all of the data processing is performed by the yo-yo's processor, the processed data may also be stored in the yo-yo's memory. The USB connector can be used to retrieve information stored in memory, perform maintenance on the yo-yo 400 (such as upgrading the processor firmware), charge the battery, and so on.

[0031] Additionally, a side cap 408 (either secured by a screw or having a snap fit) covers the shell 600. The cap 408 is removable to access the elements housed within the shell 600 for maintenance, for example, to replace a battery, such as battery 402 within the shell. Of course, other sensors may alternatively or additionally be included in the shell 600, either as separate elements (as in the case of the optical reflection sensor 404) or mounted to the motherboard 406 (as in the case of the multi-axis accelerometer array).

[0032] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a shell 600 of a yo-yo 400 that houses the above-mentioned elements. As can be seen, the power supply 402, the light reflective sensor 404, and the motherboard 406 are roughly symmetrically arranged about the axis 410. In other words, the weight of the elements housed in the shell 600 is as constant as possible for any given radius from the axis 410. In the particular example of FIG. 5, the power supply 402 is positioned so that its center of mass (center of gravity) is as close as possible to a point on an axis extending through the center of the axis 410 of the yo-yo 400. Thus, the power supply 402 is rotationally balanced about the axis 410. Similarly, while the centers of mass of the light reflective sensor 404 and the motherboard 406 are offset from the center of the axis 410, their combined centers of mass are preferably as close as possible to a point on an axis extending through the center of the axis 410 of the yo-yo 400. Thus, since the light reflective sensor 404 and the motherboard 406 are at the same distance d from the center of the yo-yo 400, their total weight remains as evenly distributed as possible about the axis 410.

[0033] 6, the power supply 402, light reflective sensor 404, motherboard 406, and other elements housed within the shell 600 may be supported by and / or attached to a protrusion 602 within the shell 600. This protrusion 602 may be integral with the shell 600 itself, for example, as part of a mold used to manufacture the shell 600. The weight of this protrusion 602 may also be taken into consideration when determining the total weight distribution of the elements housed within the shell 600.

[0034] FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a shell 700 of a yo-yo 400 that does not contain the above-mentioned elements. Because the shell 700 of FIG. 7 does not include the power supply 402, the optical reflective sensor 404, the motherboard 406, the protrusions 602, or other elements, the shell 700 includes a protruding ring 702 to balance the elements of the other shell 600 of FIG. 6. Thus, the ring 702 preferably has a uniform density and is coaxial with the axis 410 of the yo-yo 400, thereby providing rotational balance around the axis 410. The ring 702 also preferably has the same mass as the other elements of the shell 700, thereby ensuring that the total mass of each shell 700 (and the elements therein) is equal. Like the protrusions 602, the ring 702 may be integral with the rest of the shell 700.

[0035] Referring to FIG. 9 , in some embodiments, the motherboard and / or other electronic components 902 described above can be positioned on an inner bearing 904 of the yo-yo 900. The inner bearing 904 can include multiple bearings 906 within a track 908 concentric with an opening 910 through which the yo-yo's shaft extends. The inner bearing can be secured to the electronic components 902 and the shell housing of the yo-yo 900, thereby allowing the yo-yo 900 to rotate freely without a corresponding rotation of the electronic components 902. In other words, any components statically attached to or within the shell housing of the yo-yo 900 will rotate at the same speed as the yo-yo 900 itself. However, the inner bearing 904 allows the yo-yo 900 to rotate freely relative to any components 902 secured to the inner bearing 904. In other words, because the yo-yo 900 is free to rotate about the inner bearing 904, any part 902 fixed to the inner bearing 904 is also free to rotate about the inner bearing 904 and the yo-yo 900. Thus, the part 902 may still be rotated due to the movement of the yo-yo 900, but not at the same speed as the yo-yo 900 itself.

[0036] With this mounting configuration, the electronic components 902 do not necessarily need to be highly resistant to acceleration and gravitational acceleration. Therefore, less expensive electronic components 902 can be used, thereby reducing the cost of the yo-yo 900. Similarly, processing of data collected by the sensor portion of the electronic components 902 does not necessarily require processing to compensate for the occurrence of high RPMs of the yo-yo 900. Therefore, measurement accuracy can also be improved.

[0037] While the embodiment shown in FIG. 9 features the inner bearing 904 spaced apart from and concentric with the opening 910, other configurations are possible within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the inner bearing 904 could directly surround the opening 910. In other words, the portion of the shell of the yo-yo 900 that defines the opening 910 could serve as the inner wall of the raceway 908 of the inner bearing 904. In other embodiments, the inner bearing 904 is not concentric with the opening 910. This embodiment allows for more force and rotation to be applied to the attached components compared to a concentric arrangement with the opening 910, but still significantly less than in embodiments where the components are directly secured to the yo-yo 900 without any bearings. Of course, the yo-yo 900 can also use combinations of the above configurations. For example, some components could be placed in bearings concentric with the opening 910 and other components in bearings that are not concentric with the opening 910.

[0038] 2, using the above information from the sensors of the yo-yos 200, 210, various moves performed by the player may be automatically identified and / or scored by the associated computing devices 202, 212 and / or server 230. For example, the dynamic characteristics associated with each of a plurality of predefined moves may be stored in a database accessible by each computing device 202, 212 and / or server. For example, the database may be stored remotely on the server 230. Moves may then be identified by comparing measurements at instantaneous points in time and predefined time periods with measurements associated with each move stored in the database 230. Furthermore, by comparing the points in time at which the moves were identified, transition times between moves may be determined.

[0039] In some embodiments, a player may introduce a new move and record it in database 230. For example, a player may input parameters defining the move into computing device 202, 212, and after performing it for verification (measured parameters match the input parameters), the move may be stored in database 230. In a variation of this embodiment, if a move is performed and no equivalent move is found in database 230, computing device 202, 212 may prompt the player to identify whether the move is new and whether it should be stored in database 230.

[0040] Similarly, different quantitative levels of some or all of the parameters can be used to score each player's movements and tricks. For example, a low score level may be associated with a yo-yo measured to spin at less than 1,500 RPM, a medium score level may be associated with a spin between 1,500 and 3,000 RPM, and a high score may be associated with a spin of 3,000 RPM or greater. A composite score may also be assigned by weighting the scores and / or quantifying the levels associated with some or all of the measured parameters and / or calculating the score for a series of tricks.

[0041] The server 230 may also be configured to implement a machine learning system trained to receive measurements from the sensors of the yo-yos 200, 210 and output tricks and / or scores. Such a machine learning system may be trained using training data including parameters measured from the sensors of the yo-yos 200, 210 and known corresponding tricks performed by the yo-yos 200, 210 during the measurements. The machine learning system may also be further trained continuously. For example, the continuous training may be based on new measurements received from each yo-yo 200, 210 and an indication from the player themselves that a trick and / or score was properly identified by the machine learning system.

[0042] Once a recognized move is performed and / or a desired score is achieved, the computing device may play an audible sound, a visual animation, or the like. For example, a bell or chime may ring to notify the player that they have successfully completed the move or to reward the player for completing the move. Similarly, animated fireworks may be displayed on the computing device to notify or reward the player for completing the move. Once a player performs a difficult move and / or achieves a predetermined score level, the player may be awarded a badge or the like indicating their skill level.

[0043] In some embodiments, an animation of the completed trick itself may be played by the computing device 202, 212. For example, each player account may be associated with one or more avatars representing the player and a model of the yo-yo 200, 210. After completing a trick, the computing device 202, 212 may display an animation of the player's avatar completing the same trick using the modeled yo-yo.

[0044] Any of the above outputs (visual and audio) may be displayed on the computing device 202, 212 corresponding to the yo-yo 200, 210 on which the trick was performed and / or on the computing devices 202, 212 of the other players. For example, an animation corresponding to a trick performed with Player 1's yo-yo 200 may be displayed on the computing devices 202, 212 of both Player 1 and Player 2. Different outputs may be provided to each computing device 202, 212. For example, Player 1's computing device 202 may display animated fireworks celebrating the completion of the trick, while Player 2's computing device 212 may display a virtual animation of Player 1's avatar completing the trick or an actual recorded video of Player 1 completing the trick. Outputs may also be provided by a central server 230 (or a computing device not connected to the individual yo-yos), thereby allowing the output to be broadcast to spectators or other people who do not have their own yo-yos 200, 210 and / or computing devices 202, 212. For example, spectators may view the displays on their computing devices 202, 212 at locations remote from each player or at a central location (eg, at the stadium).

[0045] Each player's move history may be stored locally on the player's computing device or yo-yo, or remotely on a central server (e.g., the location where the aforementioned database is stored). In some embodiments, the historical information may additionally or alternatively be stored in the on-board memory of the yo-yo 200, 210 itself. Thus, players may track their historical progress, for example, to identify areas for improvement and aid in training. This information may also be used to identify a player's skill. For example, skill levels may be identified by comparing players' move histories. More recent moves are given more weight in identifying skill levels.

[0046] In some embodiments, the computing device can facilitate a training program for each player. For example, a player can input their initial skill level and desired skill level into the computing device. Based on these inputs, the computing device can recommend goals, such as various moves and / or various score levels, to achieve to improve the player's skill. The player can also complete an initial assessment (e.g., a series of moves of increasing difficulty). The computing device can analyze which moves the player was able to complete and at what score level to identify the player's initial skill level. The computing device can then initiate a training program with various moves and / or score levels based on the identified initial skill, thereby improving the player's skill.

[0047] Additionally, different players can “connect” with one another and view each other's completed moves, including any animations associated with the moves, any badges awarded to the players, and the players' recognized skill levels. This connection allows for the creation of communities among players based, for example, on skill level, friends, device type, geographic region, school, or other predefined groups (e.g., groups associated with clubs separate from the devices and systems described herein). Connected players (e.g., Player 1 and Player 2) can also watch each other perform moves in real time or near real time, or view moves previously performed. When watching other players, a camera (with or without audio) connected to that player's computing device 202, 212 captures video of the player performing the move, which is then streamed to other viewing players and / or stored (locally or remotely) for later viewing. Alternatively or additionally, the viewing player can view an animation of that player's avatar performing the move. These connections can also be facilitated through third-party social networking and social media platforms. For example, players can share tricks, videos, etc. directly to other social media platforms (such as FACEBOOK® or INSTAGRAM®).

[0048] In some embodiments, the connected computing devices 202, 212 and / or the central server 230 can facilitate competitions between different players. For example, judges can watch each player (through live video or animated avatars) perform a series of moves within a predetermined time and assign corresponding scores. In other examples, the computing devices 202, 212 and / or the central server 230 can assign scores as described above. Competitions can be categorized by skill level, for example, as identified by the computing devices 202, 212 and / or the central server 230. Additionally, "all-around" competitions may include all interested players, while some competitions may be limited to specially invited players. In additional or alternative embodiments, competitions can be conducted within any of the player communities described above. In addition to competitions, leaderboards (e.g., displaying top scores and moves) across all players or within a given player community are also maintained by the central database 230 and available for viewing by connected players.

[0049] In some embodiments, scores (and / or leaderboards), visual animations corresponding to tricks, etc. may be displayed on a central display (e.g., a projector) at the competition venue. The central display may be directly controlled by (or be part of) the central server 230, connected to the central server 230, and / or individually connected to each computing device 202, 212. In this manner, displays related to the competition and yo-yo execution may be displayed to spectators rather than individually to players on their own computing devices 202, 212. Similarly, each spectator in the crowd may view such competition on their own computing device. For example, a spectator may view the competition remotely on a personal laptop or cell phone by connecting to the central server 230. Such remote spectators may see the same output (e.g., visual animations, sound, camera footage / images) as the players and spectators of the competition.

[0050] In addition to competitions, players can also participate in multiplayer or single-player games via the computing devices 202, 212 and / or the central server 230. In some examples, these games may be competitive. For example, single-player games include a "move roulette," in which players must complete randomly selected moves to advance. Other games may be based on speed challenges, scoring players based on the time it takes them to complete a predetermined number of moves, or scoring players based on the number and / or difficulty of moves completed within a predetermined time period. Multiplayer games may be based on a concept similar to the basketball game "HORSE," in which each player challenges other players to complete moves. Other games score players based on their ability to perform moves within musical or visual rhythms presented to the players by the computing device. Still other games may be action / adventure oriented. For example, these games require players to perform moves to fire lasers at oncoming enemies, and the game is visualized on the computing device. In some embodiments, attacking a particular opponent requires performing a predetermined move and / or performing the move in a predetermined direction (e.g., toward the opponent from the viewpoint displayed on the computing device), the direction of the move being detected by sensors on the device. Additionally, in "fighting" style games, one player may control or otherwise manipulate the actions of another player's yo-yo. For example, if a first player is able to complete a given move and / or achieve a sufficiently high score, the actuators of the second player's yo-yo may be controlled accordingly to interfere with the second player's ability to perform that move or another move (e.g., by causing the second player's yo-yo to vibrate, spin at an undesirable speed or direction, flash lights, make noises, etc.). In this type of game, two or more players may "fight" each other, for example, until one player is unable to control his or her yo-yo.Similarly, an actuator within the yo-yo may cause the game to begin with the yo-yo difficult to control, requiring one or more players to work individually or collaboratively to stabilize the yo-yo and win the game.

[0051] Additionally, the yo-yo may include one or more actuators, such as a motor, clutch, light, speaker, etc., that are controllable by the computing device 202, 212. Preferably, the one or more actuators are embedded in the yo-yo with even weight distribution, as described above with respect to the power supply 402, light reflective sensor 404, and motherboard 406. In this manner, a player can input a desired movement (e.g., spin speed) into the computing device 202, 212. The computing device 202, 212 can then transmit a signal to a receiver (or transceiver) on the yo-yo, process the signal, and use the signal to command one or more actuators to perform the desired movement. Such movement by the yo-yo controlled by the computing device 202, 212 can be used, for example, to assist the player in practicing or perfecting a trick. The one or more actuators can also provide a reward for completing a trick, for example, by causing the yo-yo to light up and / or emit a sound.

[0052] Each player can also access the electronic store via their computing device 202, 212 and their player account. The electronic commerce portal allows players to purchase devices and accessories, access keys to unlock restricted games (or game levels / game features) or similar activities, animations and / or customized visualizations for the player's avatar and / or animated device (e.g., "skins"), and / or similar features of apps, and / or unique devices. In some cases, these purchases are only available through the computing device 202, 212 (via the app) and are not otherwise available to the general public. Players can also earn rewards with money that can be used in the electronic store by achieving certain skill levels (e.g., performing a given trick, reaching a given score level, completing a given game, winning a competition, etc.). Players may also be provided with coupons or certificates for the purchase of tangible items (e.g., a new yo-yo, modifications or upgrades to their spinning devices, etc.).

[0053] Figure 8 shows exemplary user interface elements that may be included by a yo-yo 800. In some examples, the housing of the yo-yo 800 is provided with one or more buttons 802 and one or more display devices 804. In the example of Figure 8, these elements are shown on a surface 806 of the shell of the yo-yo 800.

[0054] Button 802 may be mechanical, electrical, capacitive, infrared, etc. Button 802 may be configured to control power to yo-yo 800, control wireless data communication (e.g., pairing) with other yo-yos or computing devices, control recording of data from one or more sensors, control video or audio recording from the yo-yo or connected computing device (e.g., causing the computing device to take a "selfie" of the player), select a trick the player is attempting, control the display of display device 803, or otherwise control the movement of yo-yo 800, and / or receive input from the player or other users of yo-yo 800.

[0055] While the yo-yo 800 may be controlled to perform such functions by a connected computing device, the button 802 can control the yo-yo independently of connectivity to a computing device. In other words, all of the above-described functions of the yo-yo can be performed in stand-alone mode. The recorded information (or information processed by the yo-yo) is then synchronized after play when connectivity to a computing device is re-established. For example, a player may perform a series of tricks for a competition while operating the yo-yo in stand-alone mode without connecting to any computing device. The button 802 can be used to perform any control of the yo-yo desired by the player. In such an embodiment, the yo-yo records the above-described motion information and performs any processing based thereon. After the trick is performed, the yo-yo is connected to a computing device, and the recorded and / or processed motion information is then uploaded to the computing device for further processing as described above. Once on the computing device, the series of tricks can be scored and processed as part of a competition.

[0056] Display 804 may be, for example, one or more individual LED lights, an LCD, or an OLED display. In some examples, any number of colors, light intensities, light durations, shapes, text, symbols, icons, and / or any combination thereof may be displayed on display 804. Display 804 may be configured to display the power status of yo-yo 800, the connection status of yo-yo 800 to a computing device, information related to the connected computing device, the data recording status of yo-yo 800, movement and / or trick information (e.g., score information) of yo-yo 800, graphics of any game being played with yo-yo 800, and / or any of the aforementioned computing device displays. Display 804 may also display information for connecting the yo-yo to a computing device. For example, a user may use button 802 to place the yo-yo in "pairing" mode for connecting to a computing device, and display 804 may display a corresponding pairing code during pairing mode or a list of available devices that can be paired with the yo-yo. Button 802 may then be used to scroll through the list of available devices. In some embodiments, the display 804 can display the aforementioned QR code.

[0057] The above-described features are not limiting and may be combined in any manner. For example, depending on the embodiment, data from the above-described sensors and processed data may be stored on any or all of the yo-yo, the computing device, and a remote server / database. Similarly, the above-described outputs may be provided to any or all of the connected computing devices. Furthermore, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to only the explicitly mentioned spinning devices. Rather, the above-described features are applicable to any toy capable of performing tricks.

Claims

1. 1. A system comprising: It's a yo-yo, Two shells connected by an axis; a sensor housed in one of the two shells, the first sensor being configured to measure a parameter related to the movement of the yo-yo; a yo-yo comprising: a reference device; a processor configured to determine the position of the yo-yo relative to the reference device based on signals transmitted between the yo-yo and the reference device or based on the strength of a magnetic field between the yo-yo and the reference device; A system comprising:

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

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

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

5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the processor is housed within the yo-yo.

6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the processor is housed within the reference device.

7. The yo-yo is the processor; Memory and Transmitter and Furthermore, The processor further comprises: collecting the measured parameters associated with the movement of the yo-yo from the sensors while the yo-yo is not wirelessly communicating with a computing device, and storing the collected measured parameters in the memory; After establishing wireless communication with the external computing device, the transmitter transmits the stored measured parameters to the computing device. The system of claim 1 , configured to:

8. The system of claim 7 , wherein the reference device is the computing device.

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

10. measuring a parameter related to the movement of a yo-yo having shells connected by an axle with a sensor housed within the shell of said yo-yo; The position of the yo-yo relative to a reference device is determined by: determining the power, time of flight or phase shift of a signal transmitted between said yo-yo and said reference device; or Identifying the magnetic field strength of the reference device relative to the yo-yo By identifying A method comprising:

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

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

13. storing the measured parameters in a memory of the yo-yo while the yo-yo is not in wireless communication with a computing device; transmitting the stored measured parameters to the external computing device after establishing wireless communication with the external computing device; The method of claim 10 further comprising:

14. The method of claim 13 , wherein the computing device is the reference device.

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