Golf Game Marker Control via Polar Coordinate Dynamics

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current golf games lack innovative features to enhance user experience and operability, resulting in a lack of excitement and engagement, particularly in terms of controlling shots and interacting with the game environment.

Innovation Solution

A game control program and mobile terminal technology that includes a screen image generating unit, landing point control unit, shot control unit, and sensor integration to simulate realistic golfing experiences by allowing players to adjust shot parameters and track the success of their shots through a combination of touch panel and rear touch panel inputs, along with gyro and acceleration sensors to determine shot power and impact.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If simple competition style is used in golf games, then the game is easy to play, but the entertainment experience and user engagement are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of playVSAvoidentertainment experience
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The game dynamically adjusts competition styles between simple and complex modes based on player skill level and preferences. The system transitions between different game modes (e.g., casual vs. realistic) to maintain engagement while preserving ease of entry for new players.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent modifies game parameters such as shot control precision, environmental factors (wind, terrain), and rule complexity to create varying levels of challenge. By adjusting these parameters, the game evolves from simple to sophisticated competition styles, enhancing entertainment value without losing accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If basic shot control interface is provided, then the interface is simple to use, but the shot control precision and realism are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterface simplicityVSAvoidshot control precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The shot control interface is segmented into multiple interaction layers: basic directional control for simplicity, and advanced parameter adjustment (power, spin, trajectory) for precision. Players can access different levels of control granularity based on their needs, maintaining ease of use while enabling precise shot control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adds dimensional depth to the control interface by introducing multiple control axes and parameters beyond simple direction. Players can adjust shots along multiple dimensions (power, angle, spin rate, trajectory shape), transforming a 1D control into a multi-dimensional control system that provides both simplicity and precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Device complexity

If traditional game controls are used, then the control mechanism is simple, but the user friendliness and operability are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol mechanism simplicityVSAvoiduser friendliness
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control mechanism is designed to serve multiple functions: basic directional control, power adjustment, shot type selection, and advanced trajectory control all through integrated interfaces. This multi-functionality allows a single control system to provide both simplicity for casual players and sophistication for experienced users, enhancing user friendliness without increasing apparent complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediary control elements such as visual feedback indicators, predictive trajectory displays, and assistive systems that mediate between player input and game outcome. These intermediaries enhance user friendliness by providing real-time guidance and feedback, making the control mechanism more intuitive without adding physical complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 solution provides a more immersive and user-friendly golf gaming experience by allowing precise control over shot parameters and realistic simulation of golfing mechanics, enhancing enjoyment and operability.

Implementation Method 1

acquire the orientation of an input device, which receives an instruction input by a player and is held by the player, from a gyro sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGyroscopic effect: Gyroscope

Implementation Method 2

acquire an acceleration of the input device from an acceleration sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcceleration sensing: Accelerometer

Data Source

PatentUS9802117B2Game device, game control program, and method for controlling golf game
Publication Date: 2017.10.31 SONY INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT LLC
  • US9802117B2 patent drawing
  • US9802117B2 patent drawing
  • US9802117B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A game device includes: a screen image generating unit that generates and displays an image of a golf course, a landing point control unit that displays a marker indicating a predicted landing point of a ball, and a shot control unit operative to control a shot. Upon receiving an input instruction for moving the position of the marker, the landing point control unit moves the position of the marker by, changing the azimuth angle of the marker in a continuous manner along with a movement of an indicated position and by changing the radius of the marker discretely, when the position of the marker is represented by a two-dimensional polar coordinate system of which the origin point is a current ball position.