Infrared Emitter Team Encoding and Motion Reload
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser tag systems rely on infrared or ultraviolet signals instead of actual lasers, and lack advanced features for team differentiation and simulated reloading mechanisms, limiting gameplay experience.
Innovation Solution
A gaming system utilizing infrared signal emitters and receivers with configurable team associations, motion sensors for simulated reloading, and a gaming tower for game mode management, including visual and auditory feedback for players.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If infrared signals are used instead of actual lasers, then safety is improved, but the authenticity of the laser tag experience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses infrared signals as a copy or substitute for actual visible laser beams. The infrared emitter transmits invisible infrared light that mimics the function of a laser without the harmful visible radiation, providing a safe alternative that maintains the core gameplay mechanics of laser tag.
2Adaptability or versatility
If team configurations are added to differentiate players, then gameplay complexity is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different infrared signal characteristics (such as frequency, modulation pattern, or encoding) to different teams. Each team's emitter transmits signals with unique local qualities that allow receivers to distinguish between teams, enabling team differentiation without requiring complex centralized control systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If simulated reloading mechanisms are implemented, then gameplay immersion is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements reloading by limiting the number of infrared signal emissions after which the emitter must undergo a reloading period during which it cannot fire. This periodic action between firing sequences simulates the reloading mechanic, creating immersion without requiring physical ammunition magazines or complex mechanical reloading systems.
4Adaptability or versatility
If motion sensors are added to detect reloading actions, then functionality is improved, but use of energy worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The motion sensor is designed to be triggered only by specific reloading motions (such as shaking or manipulating the device in particular ways) that players naturally perform during gameplay. The sensor activates the reloading sequence only when these specific self-service actions are detected, minimizing unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining functionality.
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
Enhances gameplay by allowing multiple team configurations, preventing friendly fire, and providing a more immersive experience through visual and auditory cues for reloading and gameplay status.
Implementation Method 1
an infrared signal emitter configured to emit an infrared signal
Implementation Method 2
a motion sensor being disposed within the housing, the motion sensor being configured to detect a shaking movement
Data Source
AI summary
A gaming system may include: an infrared signal emitter configured to emit an infrared signal, the infrared emitter being configured to emit a predetermined number of emissions per a simulated reloading action, the infrared signal being configurable to be associated with one of at least a first team, a second team, and a neutral team, the infrared signal emitter including a handle to be grasped by a player and a trigger to effect emission of the infrared signal; and an infrared signal receiver configured to receive the infrared signal associated with one of the at least the first team, the second team, and the neutral team. Optionally, the gaming system may include a stationary receiver and emitter for integrated use with game players in a further modification of the methods and uses herein. The stationary receiver and emitter may receive and transmit signals, store a memory of activities, teams, players, and other game-playing benefits.