Billiard Table Remote Competition System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional billiard tables experience underutilization in modern entertainment settings due to a lack of sophistication and physical interaction, as players seek more challenging and engaging experiences that combine physical and virtual elements.
Innovation Solution
An arrangement that connects multiple billiard tables via a central database for remote competition, using timers and closed-circuit television to track performance, allowing players to compete and improve their skills against others worldwide, while also incorporating music and video elements to enhance the gaming experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional billiard tables are used in traditional settings, then the table structure remains simple and cost-effective, but the table utilization and player engagement are low
Solution Approach 1:
The billiard table system is enhanced with multiple functions beyond traditional play: remote communication capabilities, timing systems, video recording, and database integration. This allows the same table to serve both local and remote players, increasing utilization while maintaining the core billiard function.
Solution Approach 2:
A central database and communication network act as intermediaries between multiple billiard tables at different locations. This mediator enables remote players to compete against each other without being physically present at the same table, thereby increasing table utilization across multiple locations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electronic games are used to provide sophisticated challenges, then player engagement increases, but physical interaction and body invigoration are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the physical aspects of traditional billiard play with the sophistication of electronic gaming systems. Players physically play billiards locally while electronic systems handle timing, communication, and competition management, combining the best of both physical and digital experiences.
Solution Approach 2:
Mechanical timing devices and manual scorekeeping are replaced with electronic timers, automated ball detection sensors, and digital databases. This substitution provides sophisticated tracking and engagement features while the core physical billiard play remains intact.
3Productivity
If remote competition features are added to connect players globally, then player engagement and table utilization improve, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into independent modular components: local timing systems, video recording devices, communication interfaces, and a central database. Each component can be implemented separately and scaled according to needs, allowing gradual adoption that manages complexity while improving utilization.
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement adapted to be used with conventional billiard tables for greater utilization, versatility and/or application of said tables, said arrangement including, a multiplicity of billiard tables located at a variety of separate locations, a means to register and allow for communication between a plurality of players, such that said players need not necessarily play upon the same table nor be located at the one location, said players intended to compete against other registered players, or approve upon personal individual skill level, a timer such that competition between players or improvement of personal standings of an individual is based upon timing of pocketing a set of balls or part thereof upon the respective billiard table by said, timer, a means for having time results of the or each player transferred to a central database wherein individual player's times and standings may then be acknowledged.