Screenless Game Device Proximity Sensor Tag Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tag games often lead to disputes over who was tagged and who is the tagger, lacking an engaging element to attract children, and fail to encourage physical activity, contributing to the obesity epidemic among young people.
Innovation Solution
A game device equipped with proximity sensors that detect the presence of other game devices, changing game states and ensuring fair play by mutual detection, allowing for engaging physical games with reduced physical contact and social distancing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional tag games are played without electronic devices, then children can engage in simple physical activity, but disputes arise over who was tagged and fairness cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual system of tag detection (visual confirmation, verbal agreement) with an electronic sensor-based system. Proximity sensors automatically detect when players are tagged, eliminating disputes through objective electronic verification rather than subjective human judgment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electronic game devices as intermediaries between players to mediate the tagging process. These devices serve as neutral arbiters that objectively detect proximity and determine tagging events, removing the need for players to verbally confirm or dispute tags.
2Reliability
If traditional tag games are played with full physical contact, then tagging can be clearly detected, but children may be injured and physical safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical contact-based tagging with electronic proximity detection. Instead of requiring physical touch to register a tag, the system uses sensors to detect when players enter a predefined proximity zone, eliminating the need for physical contact and associated injury risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic game device acts as an intermediary that detects tagging events through proximity sensing rather than requiring direct physical interaction between players. This intermediary system provides clear detection without the harmful effects of physical contact.
3Productivity
If children play traditional physical games without restrictions, then physical activity levels increase, but close contact between players reduces social distancing capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the tagging mechanism dynamic and adaptable by using adjustable proximity thresholds. The system can be configured to detect tags at various distance levels, allowing games to be played with increased spacing between players while maintaining clear detection of tagging events.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces contact-based tagging with non-contact proximity detection, enabling children to maintain physical distance while still engaging in active tag games. The electronic detection system works effectively at various distances, supporting both close and distant gameplay configurations.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional tag games are played, then children can have fun, but the games lack engaging elements to attract children who are less interested in physical games
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates game devices with multiple functions beyond simple tagging. The devices include proximity detection, role assignment, score tracking, and various game mode capabilities, making them versatile tools that can adapt to different play styles and preferences, thereby increasing engagement for diverse groups of children.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device enhances fairness and engagement in tag games, encourages physical activity, and supports social distancing, addressing the obesity issue by providing a fun and inclusive experience for children.
Implementation Method 1
The game device may comprise at least one sensor. The at least one sensor may comprise a proximity sensor. The proximity sensor may be configured to detect a proximity of the game device to an object.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable handheld and/or wearable screenless electronic game (10) device with at least one proximity sensor. The proximity sensor detects a proximity of the game device (10) to an object (10b) and/or detects a proximity of the object (10b) to the game device (10), such that the game device (10) detects a relative proximity between the game device (10) and the object (10b). The game device (10b) changes game state or configuration in dependence on a proximity trigger signal, the proximity sensor providing the proximity trigger signal when the object (10b) is detected within a minimum threshold relative proximity to the game device (10).