Location-Based Game Server Using GPS Relay for Non-GPS Devices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional games cannot utilize location-based services effectively due to the lack of GPS modules in devices like PCs and notebook computers, limiting the use of location-based game services.
Innovation Solution
A method where a device without a GPS function connects with a device that has a GPS function, authenticates, and sets the latter's location information as its own, allowing it to play location-based games by transmitting this information to a game server.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a device without GPS function is used, then device compatibility and ease of operation are improved, but location information acquisition capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a second device with GPS functionality as an intermediary to provide location information to the first device without GPS. The first device communicates with the second device, which acts as a mediator to supply the required location data, thereby enabling location-based gaming on devices that lack built-in GPS capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The second device with GPS functionality serves multiple purposes: it provides location information not only to the first device but can also function as a standalone gaming device. This multi-functionality allows a single GPS-enabled device to support multiple users or devices without GPS, improving resource utilization and accessibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If location information is shared between devices, then adaptability and user experience are improved, but device complexity and authentication requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary authentication between the first device and second device before location information sharing. By establishing trust and connection in advance, the system enables seamless location-based gaming without requiring repeated authentication during gameplay, thus reducing the perceived complexity for users.
Solution Approach 2:
The first device copies or adopts the location information from the second device as its own location data. This copying mechanism allows the non-GPS device to participate in location-based games using the GPS device's location, simplifying the overall system architecture by avoiding the need for each device to independently verify location sources during gameplay.
3Measurement precision
If GPS function is added to all devices, then location information accuracy is improved, but device cost and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the GPS functionality requirement from multiple devices into a single second device. Instead of equipping every gaming device with GPS, the system combines the GPS capability in one device that can share its location information with multiple non-GPS devices, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining location accuracy for all users.
Solution Approach 2:
The second device with GPS functionality serves itself and others by providing location information to multiple first devices. This self-service approach allows the GPS-equipped device to act as a location server for multiple clients, eliminating the need for each client to have its own GPS hardware while still providing accurate location-based gaming experiences.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a game server for providing a location-based game, including: a location information receiving unit configured to receive location information of a first device from the first device; a game providing unit configured to provide a game based on the location information of the first device to the first device; and an identification information receiving unit configured to receive identification information of the first device from the first device. The location information of the first device is set based on location information of the connected second device, the first device is a device without a GPS (Global Positioning System) function and the second device is a device with the GPS function, the game providing unit allocates a first game environment to the identification information of the first device, and the identification information of the first device includes at least one of a UUID (Universal Unique Identifier), a GUID (Global Unique Identifier), and a Mac Address.