Grabber Weight Sensing for Prize Detection and Grip Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing game machines with grabbers or vacuum heads face challenges in accurately detecting and identifying prizes due to spatial limitations and feasibility issues with incorporating sensors like infrared sensors, requiring a more practical and effective method for prize detection and identification.
Innovation Solution
A device equipped with a weight determination device, such as a weighing cell or pressure sensor, that determines the weight of the pick-up device and objects, allowing for successful pick-up detection and identification of the type of prize, along with a control device to adjust the pick-up force and trigger animation effects based on the weight, enabling precise control and interaction with the pick-up device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If infrared sensors or vacuum sensors are used for prize detection, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity and spatial requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex optical sensors (infrared) or vacuum sensors with a simple mechanical weighing cell. The weighing cell measures weight changes to detect prize presence and type, eliminating the need for complex sensor systems while maintaining detection capability. This is achieved by integrating the weighing cell into the grabber mechanism, where weight changes directly indicate prize acquisition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the detection function from complex sensor systems and implements it through a separate, dedicated weighing cell. This allows the detection mechanism to be independently optimized and integrated into the grabber structure without adding overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If grabber gripping force is increased to ensure prize capture, then capture reliability is improved, but prize damage and user experience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where the weighing cell continuously monitors weight changes during the grabbing process. When the desired weight (prize capture) is detected, the system automatically reduces or stops additional gripping force application. This prevents excessive force that could damage the prize while ensuring reliable capture.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping force is made dynamic rather than static. The system adjusts gripping force in real-time based on weight feedback, starting with higher force to ensure capture, then reducing to maintenance level once prize acquisition is confirmed, thereby preventing damage.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are integrated into the grabber for precise detection, then detection accuracy is improved, but mounting feasibility and spatial limitations worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The weighing cell serves multiple functions: it measures the weight of the grabber itself, detects when a prize is captured by measuring weight increase, and can potentially identify prize type based on weight characteristics. This single multi-functional component replaces what would otherwise require multiple specialized sensors, simplifying assembly while maintaining detection accuracy.
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
Enables simple and accurate detection of prizes, adjusts pick-up force for optimal gripping, and provides enhanced user experience through sound and visual animations, improving the overall functionality and engagement of the game machine.
Implementation Method 1
a weight determination device for determining the weight of the pick-up device
Implementation Method 2
The vertical moving device is movably, e.g., pivotally, mounted and the pressure sensor is provided such that the vertical moving device exerts a pressure force on the pressure sensor by its own weight and by the weight of the pick-up device connected thereto
Data Source
AI summary
A device for picking up one or more objects, e.g., particular one or more prizes to be won, and subsequently moving the same to a dispensing position includes: a pick-up device, such as a grabber or a vacuum head; and a positioning device to be controlled by a user for positioning the pick-up device over one or more objects. A weight determination device is provided for determining the weight of the pick-up device, in which one or more picked up objects may be present in case of a successful pick-up attempt, or of a variable related to the weight.