A supporting device for a handheld gaming controller and a method for using the supporting device

Abstract

The supporting device for a handheld gaming controller (1) comprises a bar (2) with an inner body (21) and an outer body (22) configured to manually move in a telescopic manner. A locking device (3) locks the relative position of the inner body (21) and the outer body (22) when the locking device (3) is in a close position. A telescopic body friction system (23) provides a sliding friction between the inner body (21) and the outer body (22) and prevents the inner body (21) from gravitative sliding in relation to the outer body (22) when the locking device (3) is in an open position. A motion restriction system (17) regulates the relative movement distance of the inner body (21) within the outer body (22).

Description

[0001] A SUPPORTING DEVICE FOR A HANDHELD GAMING CONTROLLER AND

[0002] A METHOD FOR USING THE SUPPORTING DEVICE

[0003] BACKGROUND

[0004] A supporting device for a handheld gaming controller acts as a physical peripheral that can be used as a detachable accessory between the handheld gaming controller and the user. One aspect of the supporting device is to provide physical support that transforms the user’s perception of the gaming controllers to resemble that of real-world counterparts when the user is playing games in the virtual reality (VR) environment while wearing a virtual reality headset. In a VR game environment, the player may need to adjust the relative positions of the two gaming controllers attached to the supporting device. This adjustment is necessary to match the orientation or relative positions of a virtual tool, or a weapon used in the game. The supporting device residing in the real world should not distract the user from playing the VR game.

[0005] When the user’s posture changes during the gameplay, due to supporting device adjustment, the user may lose the gaming target easily. The supporting device is arranged to keep the gaming controllers firmly in the position defined by the user. Alternatively, or in addition, especially in a VR shooting game, the user may switch between multiple shooting weapons with diverse sizes, shapes, and actions during the gameplay, such as a pump-action mode, a compact shooting mode, or a long-range targeting mode. The supporting device for the handheld gaming controller, being adjustable in various positions, is well- suited for VR shooter games. Examples of games suitable for supporting devices are VR simulation games, first-person shooter games, fishing games, or rowing games.

[0006] One known solution to provide support for a handheld gaming controller comprises a long bar with multiple controller receptacles. The length of the bar component is fixed during the gameplay and the user may need to stop the gameplay to readjust the supporting device.

[0007] In one example, the user may adjust the length and the angle of each portion to the proper position before starting the game, then locking the length and the angle by the joint. Alternatively, or in addition, the controller receptacles are arranged on different portions, causing the angle of the controller receptacles to change with the change of the length and the angle of each portion. The adjustment of the angle and the length of one portion can cause the positions of other portions and the positions of the controller receptacles to change correspondingly. The user will take more time to adjust the position and the angle of each controller receptacles when changing the length and the angle of each portion during the gameplay.

[0008] EP3852894A1 discloses controller support comprising a rod with four portions, at least one receptacle engaged to the rod by a magnetic part, and a joint configured to connect each portion together.

[0009] SUMMARY

[0010] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any or all disadvantages noted in any part of this disclosure.

[0011] A supporting device for a handheld gaming controller and a method for using the supporting device are disclosed hereinafter. The supporting device for a handheld gaming controller comprises a bar with an inner body and an outer body that are configured to move in a telescopic manner manually. A locking device locks the relative position of the inner body and the outer body, at least one controller receptacle is engaged to the bar for receiving the gaming controller. A telescopic tube friction system is arranged, for example, between an outer wall of the inner body and an inner wall of the outer body. During the game, when the locking device is in an open position, and the supporting device is in a non-horizontal state, the telescopic tube friction system prevents or restricts the inner body from gravitative sliding in relation to the outer body. As an example of the device use, the user may switch between multiple virtual shooting weapons with diverse sizes during the gameplay. Different virtual shooting weapons may have different sizes or grip positions that need to be simulated in the real world by the gaming controllers. The supporting device for the handheld gaming controller, providing adjustable length and orientation between the controllers in real-time, is suitable for switching between diverse sizes and types of shooting weapons during the VR shooter gameplay.

[0012] The arrangement has at least three improvements over the prior art. Telescopic movement on the bar allows more compact structure for the supporting device assembly, as the supporting device is easier to accommodate in various storage bags. The real-time telescopic movement of the bar allows the supporting device to be applied to different games and to mimic the handling of different weapons, for example rechambering a pump-action shotgun by a sliding action.

[0013] In a VR shooter game, the user may switch between multiple shooting weapons of diverse sizes during the gameplay, and the distance between the two game controllers acting as weapon handles changes according to the different types of shooting weapons. The handheld gaming controller engaged to the supporting device emulates the position of the weapon handle. The telescopic structure enables the distance adjustment between two controller receptacles during the shooter games, which is well-suited for switching between shooting weapons during the gameplay. It further allows the user to quickly switch between different shooting weapon modes in the VR environment of shooter games and to adjust the distance between the two handheld gaming controllers in the real world to adapt different weapon modes during the gameplay, thereby enhancing user immersion. The user may change the position of the gaming controllers engaged to the supporting device without losing the aim. In one example, the user may tilt the supporting device when the locking device is open. During gameplay, the user may unconsciously hold the supporting device in a non-horizontal state or move the controller receptacles and the inner body to undesired position unconsciously due to the fierce gameplay, causing the telescopic structure to be susceptible to the non-horizontal state of the bar, resulting in non-essential retracting and a change in controller positions. In other words, the telescopic structure may inadvertently slide to undesired position. The telescopic tube friction system prevents or restricts the gravitative sliding between the inner body and the outer body.

[0014] The telescopic tube friction system may provide realistic damping effects or sliding friction when the locking device is open, mitigating the risk of the user losing the aim in VR games during the supporting device adjustment. In one exemplary use scenario, the user may be participating in an e-sports tournament where the prize money may depend on having the aim locked at all times, without unnecessary interruptions.

[0015] The telescopic tube friction system enhances player immersion, engagement, and satisfaction. The supporting device travel, sliding friction, or damping effects between the inner body and the outer body may be adjustable.

[0016] Many of the attendant features will be more readily appreciated as they become better understood by reference to the following detailed description considered in connection with the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below are not limited to implementations which solve any or all the disadvantages of supporting device for a handheld gaming controller or methods for using supporting device.

[0017] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The present description will be better understood from the following detailed description read in light of the accompanying drawings, wherein FIG. 1 illustrates schematically an isometric view of one example of a supporting device for a handheld gaming controller;

[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates schematically an isometric view of the same embodiment with handheld gaming controllers;

[0020] FIG. 3 illustrates schematically an isometric view from the other side of the embodiment of FIG. 1 ;

[0021] FIG. 4 illustrates schematically an isometric view from the other side of the embodiment of FIG. 2;

[0022] FIG. 5a illustrates schematically a side view of one example of a telescopic tube friction system;

[0023] FIG. 5b illustrates schematically a side view of one example of a telescopic tube friction system;

[0024] FIG. 6 illustrates schematically a side view of one example of a motion restriction system, a telescopic tube friction system, and an expansion component;

[0025] FIG. 7a illustrates schematically a side view of one example of a telescopic tube friction system;

[0026] FIG. 7b illustrates schematically a side view of one example of a telescopic tube friction system;

[0027] FIG. 7c illustrates schematically a side view of one example of a telescopic tube friction system; and

[0028] FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart of a method for using the supporting device.

[0029] Like reference numerals are used to designate like parts in the accompanying drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] The detailed description provided below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of the present examples and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present example may be constructed or utilized. However, the same or equivalent functions and sequences may be accomplished by different examples.

[0031] Although the present examples are described and illustrated herein as being implemented in a supporting device for a handheld gaming controller, the device or the method described is provided as an example and not a limitation. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the present examples are suitable for application in diverse types of handheld gaming controllers and gaming applications. Shooter games are one example of many VR game types that may utilize the supporting device, other non-limiting examples are sports games, exploration games and role-playing games.

[0032] Aspects of this disclosure relate to a supporting device that can be used in conjunction with several handheld gaming controllers. One exemplary embodiment relates to first-person shooter games. In one embodiment, a supporting device comprises an inner body and an outer body to support the handheld gaming controllers. The telescopic tube friction system between the inner body and the outer body may provide realistic damping effects or sliding friction to prevent or restrict the inner body from gravitative sliding in relation to the outer body and simulate the sense of how an actual shooting feels when the inner body and the outer body are moved by a user, with the gaming controllers.

[0033] In the VR shooter game with the three-dimensional mode, the handheld gaming controller is moved to the position where the handle of the virtual weapon is located in the virtual environment, providing stronger immersion to the user.

[0034] When the handheld gaming controller in the real world retains the same position as the handle of the virtual weapon in the VR shooter game, the user may find the controller receptacle via VR visual mode after he / she has temporarily released grip from the controller receptacle. The real-world distance and the VR world distances match. The VR shooter game may instantly detect the controller receptacle distance as defined for the weapon usage. FIG.1 schematically illustrates an isometric view of one example of a supporting device for a handheld gaming controller 1 . The supporting device for a handheld gaming controller 1 comprises a bar 2 with an inner body 21 and an outer body 22 configured to move in a telescopic manner, including a telescopic tube friction system 23. FIG.2 illustrates schematically an isometric view of the same embodiment with handheld gaming controllers. FIG. 5b illustrates schematically a side view of a telescopic tube friction system. The bar 2 is engaged to the handheld gaming controllers via controller receptacles 4, 5. In this context, directions, such as up, down, horizontal, vertical, etc., are described in reference to gravity and the user’s position.

[0035] The bar 2 with an inner body 21 and an outer body 22 are configured to be moved in a telescopic manner. The telescopic movement on the inner body 21 and the outer body 22 is a result of the user extending and retracting manually, changing the length of the bar 2. The inner body 21 and the outer body 22 slide through the force exerted on the two controller receptacles 4, 5. The user grips one controller receptacles 4, 5 on the inner body 21 with one hand and another controller receptacles 5, 4 on the outer body 22 with another hand, implementing telescopic movement by adjusting the distance between the two controller receptacles 4, 5.

[0036] In one embodiment, the bar 2 has a circular profile. In one embodiment, the bar 2 has a square or rectangular profile. In one embodiment, the bar 2 has an oval or elliptical profile. In one embodiment, the bar 2 has a D-shaped or a hexagonal profile.

[0037] In one embodiment, the locking device 3 has two positions. FIG. 3 illustrates a closed position, and FIG. 5b illustrates an open position. As in the present embodiment, the locking device 3 is a clamp. The relative position of the inner body 21 and the outer body 22 is locked by the locking device 3 when the locking device 3 is in a closed position. Examples of the locking device 3 are a flip-lock clamp, a hose clamp, or a twist-lock clamp.

[0038] In one embodiment, the locking device 3 has three positions, the open position, the closed position, and an intermediate position. The open position in the present embodiment is configured as a fully open position. The locking device 3 is configured to adjust the sliding friction between the inner body 21 and the outer body 22 through the intermediate position. The locking device 3 in the intermediate position is configured to prevent or restrict the inner body 21 from gravitative sliding in relation to the outer body 22. The locking device may comprise a movable member to define between closed, intermediate, and open positions. The more the movable member of the locking device 3 is moved towards the closed position, the greater the sliding friction is in the intermediate position.

[0039] FIG. 5 illustrates schematically a side view of one example of a telescopic tube friction system 23. In one embodiment, the telescopic tube friction system 23 is engaged to an outer wall of the inner body 21 , preventing or restricting the inner body 21 from gravitative sliding in relation to the outer body 22 when the locking device 3 is in the fully open position. In one embodiment, the telescopic tube friction system 23 comprises a first threaded adjuster 232 and a first elastic part 231.

[0040] In one embodiment, the telescopic tube friction system 23 and the locking device 3 in the intermediate position are together configured to prevent or restrict the inner body 21 from gravitative sliding in relation to the outer body 22.

[0041] In one embodiment, the first threaded adjuster 232 is configured to provide indirect friction to prevent or restrict gravitative sliding of the inner body 21 . The first elastic part 231 is engaged to the locking device 3, and the first threaded adjuster 232 is configured to adjust the deformation of the first elastic part 231 . In one embodiment, the first threaded adjuster 232 is an adjustable knob. When the user rotates the adjustable knob, the deformation of the first elastic part 231 is adjusted.

[0042] In one embodiment, turning the first threaded adjuster 232 causes the first elastic part 231 to shrink, and the friction between the outer wall of the inner body 21 and the first elastic part 231 increases. When turning the first threaded adjuster 232 causes the first elastic part 231 to expand, the friction between the outer wall of the inner body 21 and the first elastic part 231 decreases. In one embodiment, the first threaded adjuster 232 is a wing screw. In one embodiment, the first threaded adjuster 232 is a lever fastener.

[0043] In one embodiment, the locking device 3 is configured as an axial rotation locking device. The locking device 3 comprises two eccentric profiles on the outer wall of the inner body 21 and the inner wall of the outer body 22. When the inner body 21 and the outer body 22 are relatively rotated, the eccentric profile arranged on the outer wall of the inner body 21 is configured to apply pressure to the eccentric profile arranged on the inner wall of the outer body 22, thereby achieving locking.

[0044] FIG. 6 illustrates the first threaded adjuster 232 providing direct friction. In one embodiment, the first threaded adjuster 232 is configured to provide direct friction to prevent or restrict gravitative sliding of the inner body 21 . The locking device 3 comprises the telescopic tube friction system 23. The first threaded adjuster 232 is configured to pass through the locking device 3 and be engaged to the outer wall of the inner body 21 .

[0045] In one embodiment, a protective sleeve is engaged between an inner wall of the locking device 3 and the outer wall of the inner body 21 . When rotating the first threaded adjuster 232, the first threaded adjuster 232 is configured to pass through the locking device 3 and be engaged to the protective sleeve. The protective sleeve is used for protecting the outer wall of the inner body 21 from being scratched by the first threaded adjuster 232 and providing friction.

[0046] When the first threaded adjuster 232 is rotated, the friction between the outer wall of the inner body 21 and the protective sleeve is changed.

[0047] Examples of the protective sleeve are a wear-resistant plastic, a rubber, or other suitable wear-resistant material.

[0048] In one embodiment, the sliding friction, or damping effects between the inner body 21 and the outer body 22 are fully adjustable. In one embodiment, the more the first threaded adjuster 232 is rotated towards the outer wall of the inner body 21 , the greater friction there is.

[0049] In one embodiment, the bar 2 is configured as a hollow bar 2, sealed at the first side of the outer body 221 and the first side of the inner body 213. The telescopic tube friction system 23 comprises an air valve configured to control air passage to the hollow bar 2. The air passage is configured on the wall of the hollow bar 2.

[0050] In one embodiment, the air valve is configured to open the air passage. The air pressure inside the hollow bar 2 is equalized with the ambient air pressure through opening the air valve. The air pressure may end up being equal between the interior of the hollow bar 2 and the exterior of the hollow bar 2. The user can easily adjust the relative telescopic movement of the inner body 21 within the outer body 22 when the locking device 3 and the valve are open.

[0051] When the air passage to the hollow bar 2 is closed by the air valve, the interior of the hollow bar 2 forms a separate space, and the air pressure in the interior of the hollow bar 2 relates to the pressure exerted by the user. The air pressure inside the hollow bar 2 causes resistance to the relative telescopic movement of the inner body 21 within the outer body 22 when the locking device 3 is open.

[0052] In one embodiment, the bar 2 is configured as a hollow bar 2 having an air valve at the first side of the outer body 221 , or at the first side of the inner body 213. The telescopic tube friction system 23 comprises a seal configured to adjust the air passage to the hollow bar 2.

[0053] In one embodiment, the bar 2 is configured as a hollow bar 2 having air valves at the first side of the outer body 221 and the first side of the inner body 213. The telescopic tube friction system 23 comprises a seal configured to adjust the air passage to the hollow bar 2.

[0054] In one embodiment, the telescopic tube friction system 23 is arranged between an outer wall of the inner body 21 and an inner wall of the outer body 22. FIGs. 7a to 7c illustrate examples of the telescopic tube friction system 23. The telescopic tube friction system 23 comprises at least one second elastic part 70. The second elastic part 70 is engaged between the outer wall of the inner body 21 and the inner wall of the outer body 22 in a compressed state. A first side of the second elastic part 70 is engaged to the outer wall of the inner body 21 . In one embodiment, the second elastic part 70 comprises a compressible component, such as a spring member, an elastic metal member, a rubber member, or other suitable elastic material.

[0055] In one embodiment, the telescopic tube friction system 23 is configured to slide along the inner wall of the outer body 22 via a cover member 71 . The cover member 71 is engaged between the inner wall of the outer body 22 and the second side of the second elastic part 70. The cover member 71 is configured to provide stronger damping effects or sliding friction to prevent or restrict the inner body 21 from gravitative sliding in relation to the outer body 11 when the locking device 3 is in an open position.

[0056] In one embodiment, the initial state of the supporting device 1 is in horizontal orientation; when the supporting device 1 is in a non-horizontal orientation during gameplay, the telescopic tube friction system 23 provides damping effects or sliding friction.

[0057] In one embodiment, in FIG. 6, along the length of the wall of the inner body 21 and the outer body 22 comprises two first profiles 212, 222, being configured to match with each other and to restrict rotation of telescopic movement of the inner body 21 .

[0058] In one embodiment, the first profiles 212, 222 are a ridge and a groove. Implementing the ridge on one profile 212, 222 that fits into the groove on the other profile 222, 212 effectively restricts rotation. In one embodiment, the first profiles 212, 222 are D-shaped profiles. The inner body 21 and the outer body 22 with D-shaped profiles both have a flat side to prevent rotation. This embodiment is not limited to the number of pairs in ridges and grooves. The first profiles may comprise one ridge and a matching groove; or alternatively multiple ridges and matching grooves.

[0059] In one embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 6, the supporting device 1 comprises a motion restriction system 17. The motion restriction system 17 regulates the relative movable distance of the inner body 21 within the outer body 22 adapting to relative movements of multiple VR games having virtual tools or weapons. In one embodiment, the motion restriction system 17 comprises a second threaded adjuster 170, a limiting plate 173, and a limiting nut 174 configured to be engaged inside the first side of the outer body 221 . According to the type and size of the weapons during the gameplay, the motion restriction system 17 provides various movable distances of the inner body 21 within the outer body 22.

[0060] The limiting nut 174 is engaged to the end of the second threaded adjuster 170 at a distance from a knob 171 , and the limiting plate 173 is configured to be threadedly engaged to a threaded body 172 of the second threaded adjuster 170.

[0061] In one embodiment, the limiting plate 173 comprises at least one second profile 175 configured to match the first profile 222 of the outer body 22 and restrict rotation of the limiting plate 173.

[0062] The threaded body 172 and the knob 171 are set up as a single unit. The diameter of the liming plate 173 is the same as the diameter of the inner body 21. In one embodiment, when the knob 171 is rotated, the limiting plate 173 moves back or forth as the threaded body 172 turns. The distance of telescopic movement of the inner body 21 is limited by the position of the limiting plate 173. The motion restriction system 17 is configured to limit the minimum length of the supporting device 1 .

[0063] In one embodiment, the motion restriction system 17 comprises a second threaded adjuster 170, a limiting plate 173, and a limiting nut 174 configured to be engaged inside the first side of the outer body 221 . The second side of the inner body comprises a cover engaged to a second side of the inner body. The limiting plate 173, the limiting nut 174 and the threaded body 172 are arranged to pass through the cover and are configured inside the second side of the inner body. The diameter of the liming plate 173 is the same as the diameter of the inner body 21 . The motion restriction system 17 is configured to limit the maximum length of the supporting device 1.

[0064] In one embodiment, in FIG. 6, the supporting device 1 comprises an expansion member 30 and at least one detachable accessory 40. The expansion member 30 comprises at least one locking window 31 and a third profile 32 configured to connect the detachable accessory 40. The expansion member 30 is engaged to the first side of the inner body 213. In one embodiment, the detachable accessory 40 is a fixed mount of the supporting device, such as resembling that of a bipod or tripod for a machine gun in a VR first-person shooter game.

[0065] In one embodiment, the detachable accessory 40 comprises an interface 41 and a handle 45. A fourth profile 42, an elastic button 43, and a locking block 44 are configured to be engaged to the interface 41 . The fourth profile 42 is configured to match with the third profile 32, locking the position of the detachable accessory 40.

[0066] In one embodiment, the locking block 44 is configured to be connected resiliently to the elastic button 43 and matched with the locking window 31 . The elastic button 43 is configured to release the locking status of the locking block 43 from the locking window 31 when pressing the elastic button 43.

[0067] In one embodiment, at least one controller receptacle 4, 5 is adapted to receive the handheld gaming controller and implement connection from the handheld gaming controller to the bar 2.

[0068] In one embodiment, the controller receptacle 4, 5 implements the connection to the bar 2 via a roller ball joint or a hinge or a tenon. The controller receptacle 4, 5 is rotatably engaged to the bar 2. In one embodiment, the controller receptacle 4, 5 implements the connection to the bar 2 via a bar clamp 8, 9, and the controller receptacle 4, 5 is engaged movably and rotatably to the bar 2.

[0069] The controller receptacle 4, 5 comprises an open cavity 51 , 52 for a gaming controller handle. In one embodiment, a walled portion is configured around the open cavity 51 , 52. An outer side of the walled portion is configured to receive a user's finger grip. An inner side of the walled portion is configured to receive a first side of the controller configured for the user’s finger grip.

[0070] The gaming controller handle and the controller receptacle 4, 5 are secured together by utilizing the user's hand grip for enhanced stability. Also, as the gaming controller stays in the controller receptacle 4,5 only by the grip of the user's hand, the gaming controller is easy to remove from the controller receptacle 4, 5.

[0071] In one embodiment, the controller receptacle 4, 5 is rotatably engaged to the bar 2 via a tenon 6, 7. The tenon 6, 7 is engaged removably and rotatably to the bar 2 via a bar clamp 8, 9.

[0072] In one embodiment, the supporting device 1 comprises at least two controller receptacles 4, 5. A first controller receptacle 5 is configured to be engaged to the outside of the inner body 21 . A second controller receptacle 4 is configured to be engaged to the outside of the outer body 22. The position of the controller receptacles 4, 5 are adjustable according to the user’s handedness or personal preference.

[0073] In one embodiment, the supporting device 1 comprises at least one second receptacle 60. The second receptacle 60 is configured to be engaged to the bar 2 receiving the detachable accessory 40.

[0074] In one embodiment, the second receptacle 60 comprises an external interface 61 and a fifth profile 62, wherein the fifth profile 62 is configured to match with the fourth profile 42 of the detachable accessory 40.

[0075] In one embodiment, the supporting device 1 comprises an L-shaped stock 14, having two supporting portions arranged at an angle. A horizontal supporting portion 141 is configured to support the user’s cheek, and a vertical supporting portion 142 is configured to support the user’s shoulder. L-shaped stock 14 provides stable support for users while playing games.

[0076] In one embodiment, the supporting device 1 comprises a connector 15. A first end of the connector 151 is movably engaged to slide on the vertical supporting portion 142 by a sliding joint 16 up and down by one hand. A second end of the connector 152 is movably engaged to the bar 2.

[0077] In one embodiment, the sliding joint 16 is engaged to the vertical supporting portion 142 by gear members. In one embodiment, a first two linear gears are secured to the inside of the vertical supporting portion 142, a second two linear gears are secured to the sliding joint 16. In one embodiment, the sliding joint 16 is engaged to the first two linear gears by the second two linear gears, the second two linear gears are arranged outside of the first two linear gears. The vertical supporting portion comprises a second elastic button engaged to the first two linear gears; the second elastic button is configured to adjust the spacing between the first two linear gears.

[0078] When the spacing between the first two linear gears decreases by pressing the spring button, the first two linear gears disengage from the second two linear gears. The height of the sliding joint 16 can be adjusted by the user pushing the sliding joint 16 up or pulling the sliding joint 16 down.

[0079] In one embodiment, a sliding joint 16 is engaged to the first two linear by the second two linear gears, the second two linear gears are set inside of the first two linear gears. The sliding joint 16 comprises a second elastic button engaged to the second two linear gears. The second elastic button is configured to adjust the spacing of the second two linear gears.

[0080] When the spacing between the second two linear gears decreases by pressing the spring button, the first two linear gears disengage from the second two linear gears. The height of the sliding joint 16 can be adjusted by the user pushing the sliding joint 16 up or pulling the sliding joint 16 down.

[0081] In one embodiment, a first linear gear member is secured to the inside of the vertical supporting portion 142, a second linear gear member is secured to the sliding joint 16. The first linear gear member and the second linear gear member are meshed mutually.

[0082] In one embodiment, the vertical supporting portion 142 comprises a second elastic button engaged to the first linear gear member. The second elastic button is configured to adjust the position of the first linear gear member. The first linear gear member and the second linear gear member are separated by pressing the second elastic button.

[0083] In one embodiment, the sliding joint 16 comprises a second elastic button engaged to the second linear gear member. The second elastic button is configured to adjust the position of the second linear gear member. The first linear gear member and the second linear gear member are separated by pressing the second elastic button.

[0084] One example of the first linear gear member, the second linear gear member, the first two linear gears, and the second two linear gears is racks.

[0085] In one embodiment, the connector 15 comprises an inner part and an outer part. The inner part and the outer part are configured to move manually in a telescopic manner.

[0086] In one embodiment, the outer part comprises multiple holes along the length of the wall; a third elastic button is engaged to the inner part and is configured to pass through the holes.

[0087] In one embodiment, by pressing the third elastic button and adjusting the position of the inner part and the outer part, the relative position between the inner part and the outer part can be adjusted. By releasing the spring button, the relative position of the inner part and outer part is locked.

[0088] FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart of steps of a method for using the supporting device. Step 81 comprises choosing the locking device position between the open position and the closed position, according to the requirements of the VR game and the available tools, weapons, or equipment to be used within the VR game. Step 82 comprises adjusting the position of the gaming controller receptacles. In one embodiment, the user may adjust the height and length of the stock accordingly. User’s handedness, whether the user is left-handed or right-handed, may reflect to the gaming position and stance of the user. For each game, the required distance between the gaming controllers may vary; even within a single gameplay the user may change the equipment being used, thereby needing adjustment to the supporting device. In step 83 the user regulates the motion restriction system to the proper position based on the VR games and virtual weapons. In step 84 the user puts the handheld gaming controllers into the controller receptacles. Alternatively, the user may change the supporting device receptacle positions with the gaming controllers inside the receptacles. Step 85 comprises the user playing the VR shooter game with the supporting device and the VR headset. A supporting device for a handheld gaming controller is disclosed herein, comprising: a bar having an inner body and an outer body, wherein the inner body and the outer body are configured to manually move in a telescopic manner; a locking device configured to lock the relative position of the inner body and the outer body; and at least one controller receptacle adapted to receive the handheld gaming controller and provide connection to the bar. A telescopic tube friction system is configured to be engaged to an outer wall of the inner body; wherein the telescopic tube friction system is configured to prevent or restrict the inner body from gravitative sliding in relation to the outer body when the locking device is in an open position. In one embodiment, the telescopic tube friction system comprises a first threaded adjuster, wherein the first threaded adjuster is configured to provide direct or indirect friction to prevent or restrict gravitative sliding of the inner body. In one embodiment, the supporting device comprises a first elastic part configured to be engaged to the locking device, and the first threaded adjuster is configured to adjust the deformation of the first elastic part. In one embodiment, the supporting device comprises a protective sleeve configured between an inner wall of the locking device and the outer wall of the inner body; and locking device comprises the telescopic tube friction system, the first threaded adjuster is configured to pass through the locking device and be engaged to the protective sleeve. In one embodiment, the telescopic tube friction system comprises at least one second elastic part, a first side of the second elastic part is engaged to the outer wall of the inner body, a second side of the second elastic part is configured to be engaged to the inner wall of the outer body in a compressed state. In one embodiment, along the length of the wall of the inner body and the outer body comprise two first profiles, being configured to match with each other and to restrict rotation of telescopic movement of the inner body. In one embodiment, the supporting device comprises a motion restriction system configured to regulate the relative movable distance of the inner body within the outer body. In one embodiment, the motion restriction system comprises a second threaded adjuster, a limiting plate and a limiting nut configured to be engaged inside a first side of the outer body. In one embodiment, the limiting nut is engaged to the end of the second threaded adjuster at a distance from a knob, and the limiting plate is configured to be threadedly engaged to a threaded body of the second threaded adjuster. In one embodiment, the limiting plate comprises at least one second profile, being configured to match with the first profile of the outer body and restrict rotation of the limiting plate when moving. In one embodiment, the supporting device comprises an expansion member and at least one detachable accessory, the expansion member comprises at least one locking window and a third profile configured to connect the detachable accessory, the expansion member is engaged to a first side of the inner body. The detachable accessory comprises an interface and a handle, a fourth profile, an elastic button and a locking block are configured to be engaged to the interface, the fourth profile is configured to match with the third profile locking the position of the detachable accessory; and the locking block is configured to be resilient connected to the elastic button and match with the locking window; the elastic button is configured to release locking status of the locking block from the locking window when pressing the elastic button. In one embodiment, the bar is configured as a hollow bar sealed at a first side of the outer body and a first side of the inner body; the telescopic tube friction system comprises an air valve configured to control air passage to the hollow bar. In one embodiment, the controller receptacle comprises an open cavity for the gaming controller handle, a walled portion around the open cavity, an outer side of the walled portion being configured to receive finger grip of a user, and an inner side of the walled portion being configured to receive a first side of the controller configured for user’s finger grip, wherein the controller is configured to be held in the controller receptacle by user’s hand; and the controller receptacle is rotatably engaged to the bar via a tenon, the tenon is engaged removably and rotatably to the bar via a bar clamp. In one embodiment, the supporting device comprises two controller receptacles and at least one second receptacle, a first controller receptacle is configured to be engaged to the outside of the inner body, and a second controller receptacle is configured to be engaged to the outside of the outer body, the second receptacle is configured to be engaged to the bar receiving the detachable accessory; and the second receptacle comprises an external interface and a fifth profile, wherein the fifth profile is configured to match with the fourth profile of the detachable accessory. Alternatively, or in addition, a method for using the supporting device is disclosed. The supporting device comprises a bar having an inner body and an outer body and moving manually the inner body and the outer body in a telescopic manner; locking the relative position of the inner body and the outer body by a locking device; receiving the handheld gaming controller and providing connection to the bar by at least one controller receptacle, The method comprises engaging a telescopic tube friction system to an outer wall of the inner body; preventing or restricting the inner body from gravitative sliding in relation to the outer body when the locking device is in an open position by the telescopic tube friction system.

[0089] Any range or device value given herein may be extended or altered without losing the effect sought.

[0090] Although at least portion of the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as examples of implementing the claims and other equivalent features and acts are intended to be within the scope of the claims.

[0091] It will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one embodiment or may relate to several embodiments. The embodiments are not limited to those that solve any or all of the stated problems or those that have any or all of the stated benefits and advantages. It will further be understood that reference to ‘an’ item refers to one or more of those items.

[0092] The steps of the methods described herein may be carried out in any suitable order, or simultaneously where appropriate. Additionally, individual blocks may be deleted from any of the methods without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. Aspects of any of the examples described above may be combined with aspects of any of the other examples described to form further examples without losing the effect sought. The term ‘comprising’ is used herein to mean including the method blocks or elements identified, but that such blocks or elements do not comprise an exclusive list and a method or apparatus may contain additional blocks or elements. It will be understood that the above description is given by way of example only and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art. The above specification, examples and data provide a complete description of the structure and use of exemplary embodiments. Although various embodiments have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, or with reference to one or more individual embodiments, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this specification.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A supporting device for a handheld gaming controller (1 ), comprising: a bar (2) having an inner body (21) and an outer body (22), wherein the inner body (21) and the outer body (22) are configured to manually move in a telescopic manner; a locking device (3) configured to lock the relative position of the inner body (21 ) and the outer body (22); and at least one controller receptacle (4, 5) adapted to receive the handheld gaming controller and provide connection to the bar (2); characterized in that: a telescopic tube friction system (23) is configured to be engaged to an outer wall of the inner body (21 ); wherein the telescopic tube friction system (23) is configured to prevent or restrict the inner body (21) from gravitative sliding in relation to the outer body (22) when the locking device (3) is in an open position.

2. A supporting device according to claim ^characterized in that the telescopic tube friction system (23) comprises a first threaded adjuster (232), wherein the first threaded adjuster (232) is configured to provide direct or indirect friction to prevent or restrict gravitative sliding of the inner body (21).

3. A supporting device according to claim 2, characterized by comprising a first elastic part (231) configured to be engaged to the locking device (3), and the first threaded adjuster (232) is configured to adjust the deformation of the first elastic part (231 ).

4. A supporting device according to claim 2, characterized by comprising a protective sleeve configured between an inner wall of the locking device (3) and the outer wall of the inner body (21); and locking device (3) comprises the telescopic tube friction system (23), the firstthreaded adjuster (232) is configured to pass through the locking device(3) and be engaged to the protective sleeve.

5. A supporting device according to claim ^characterized in that the telescopic tube friction system (23) comprises at least one second elastic part (70), a first side of the second elastic part (70) is engaged to the outer wall of the inner body (21 ), a second side of the second elastic part (70) is configured to be engaged to the inner wall of the outer body (22) in a compressed state.

6. A supporting device according to any of the claims 1 to 5, characterized in that along the length of the wall of the inner body (21) and the outer body (22) comprise two first profiles (212, 222), being configured to match with each other and to restrict rotation of telescopic movement of the inner body (21 ).

7. A supporting device according to any of the claims 1 to 6, characterized by comprising a motion restriction system (17) configured to regulate the relative movable distance of the inner body (21) within the outer body (22).

8. A supporting device according to claim 7, characterized in that the motion restriction system (17) comprises a second threaded adjuster (170), a limiting plate (173) and a limiting nut (174) configured to be engaged inside a first side of the outer body (221).

9. A supporting device according to claim 8, characterized in that the limiting nut (174) is engaged to the end of the second threaded adjuster (170) at a distance from a knob (171), and the limiting plate (173) is configured to be threadedly engaged to a threaded body (172) of the second threaded adjuster (170).

10. A supporting device according to claim 9, characterized in that the limiting plate (173) comprises at least one second profile (175), being configured to match with the first profile (222) of the outer body (22) and restrict rotation of the limiting plate (173) when moving.11.A supporting device according to any of the claims 1 to 10, characterized by comprising an expansion member (30) and at least one detachable accessory (40), the expansion member (30) comprises at least one locking window (31) and a third profile (32) configured to connect the detachable accessory (40), the expansion member (30) is engaged to a first side of the inner body (213); and the detachable accessory (40) comprises an interface (41) and a handle (45), a fourth profile (42), an elastic button (43) and a locking block (44) are configured to be engaged to the interface (41), the fourth profile (42) is configured to match with the third profile (32) locking the position of the detachable accessory (40); and the locking block (44) is configured to be resilient connected to the elastic button (43) and match with the locking window (31); and the elastic button (43) is configured to release locking status of the locking block (43) from the locking window (31) when pressing the elastic button (43).

12. A supporting device according to claim ^characterized in that the bar (2) is configured as a hollow bar sealed at a first side of the outer body (221) and a first side of the inner body (213); the telescopic tube friction system (23) comprises an air valve configured to control air passage to the hollow bar (2).

13. A supporting device according to any of the claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the controller receptacle (4, 5) comprises an open cavity (51 , 52) for the gaming controller handle, a walled portion around the open cavity (51 , 52), an outer side of the walled portion being configured to receive finger grip of a user, and an inner side of the walledportion being configured to receive a first side of the controller configured for user’s finger grip, wherein the controller is configured to be held in the controller receptacle (4, 5) by user’s hand; and the controller receptacle (4, 5) is rotatably engaged to the bar (2) via a tenon (6, 7), the tenon (6, 7) is engaged removably and rotatably to the bar (2) via a bar clamp (8, 9).

14. A supporting device according to any of the claims 1 to 13, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that by comprising two controller receptacles (4, 5) and at least one second receptacle (60), a first controller receptacle (5) is configured to be engaged to the outside of the inner body (21 ), and a second controller receptacle (4) is configured to be engaged to the outside of the outer body (22), the second receptacle (60) is configured to be engaged to the bar (2) receiving the detachable accessory (40); and the second receptacle (60) comprises an external interface (61 ) and a fifth profile (62), wherein the fifth profile (62) is configured to match with the fourth profile (42) of the detachable accessory (40).

15. A method for using a supporting device for a handheld gaming controller, said supporting device comprising: a bar (2) having an inner body (21 ) and an outer body (22), and moving manually the inner body (21 ) and the outer body (22) in a telescopic manner; locking the relative position of the inner body (21 ) and the outer body (22) by a locking device (3); receiving the handheld gaming controller and providing connection to the bar (2) by at least one controller receptacle (4, 5); c h a r a c t e r i z e d by: engaging a telescopic tube friction system (23) to an outer wall of the inner body (21 ); andpreventing or restricting, by the telescopic tube friction system (23), the inner body (21 ) from gravitative sliding in relation to the outer body (22) when the locking device (3) is in an open position.

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