LED Array Gaming System with Virtual Object Overlay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gaming systems lack immersive and interactive light-based augmented reality experiences, particularly in controlling and utilizing light emitting diode (LED) arrays for virtual and augmented reality applications.
Innovation Solution
A gaming system that incorporates a programmable LED array with a controller and a computing device, such as a smartphone, using digital imaging processing and computer vision algorithms to recognize patterns of activated LEDs, replacing them with virtual objects, and integrating wireless communication and virtual reality technologies to create interactive and immersive gaming experiences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If LED arrays are used for illumination and decoration, then lighting functionality is provided, but interactive augmented reality gaming capability is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The LED array system is designed to serve multiple functions: traditional illumination and decoration modes, as well as interactive augmented reality gaming. The same LED array can be programmed to display various patterns for different applications, eliminating the need for separate dedicated gaming hardware and achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A computing device (smartphone, tablet, or computer) serves as an intermediary between the user and the LED array. This intermediary handles the complex processing tasks including running gaming applications, capturing images via camera, processing images to identify LED patterns, and controlling the LED array. By offloading complexity to the intermediary device, the LED array itself remains relatively simple while still enabling sophisticated augmented reality gaming experiences.
2Productivity
If individual LEDs are programmable for color and brightness control, then lighting flexibility is improved, but real-time interactive gaming response is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback loop where the computing device captures images of the LED array using its camera, processes these images to identify which LEDs are lit and their patterns, and then uses this information to control gaming elements such as target selection, scoring, and visual feedback. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables real-time interactive gaming response by continuously monitoring LED states and adjusting gameplay accordingly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or manual control systems with digital imaging processing and wireless communication. Instead of requiring physical switches or complex wiring for each LED, the system uses the computing device's camera to detect LED patterns and wireless communication to send control signals, significantly simplifying the control system while enabling real-time interactive responses.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a camera and image processing are used to identify LED patterns, then augmented reality object recognition is achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The computing device uses its own built-in camera and processing capabilities to perform image capture and analysis. The device essentially serves itself by utilizing its existing hardware resources (camera, processor, display screen) to run the gaming application, process images, identify LED patterns, and render augmented reality objects without requiring external specialized equipment. This self-service approach adds augmented reality capability while minimizing additional system complexity.
4Illumination intensity
If virtual objects replace lit LEDs in processed images, then immersive augmented reality experience is created, but processing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-loads and prepares augmented reality objects and gaming elements in memory before they are needed during gameplay. The computing device maintains a library of virtual objects, target patterns, and visual effects that can be quickly instantiated and displayed. This preliminary preparation significantly reduces real-time processing requirements during active gaming, allowing for immersive visual experiences without excessive processing delays.
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 the creation of immersive augmented and virtual reality gaming experiences by allowing users to interact with virtual objects in real-time, enhancing gameplay with accurate aiming and scoring mechanisms through the manipulation of LED patterns and lighting effects.
Implementation Method 1
A gaming system is disclosed that includes a light emitting diode (LED) array consisting of a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs)
Data Source
AI summary
A gaming system includes a light emitting diode (LED) array consisting of a plurality of LEDs. A controller individually controls each LED in the plurality of LEDs. A gaming app runs on a computing device that has a camera and display screen. The gaming app receives images from the camera. The image include an image of the LED array. The gaming app alters the image of the LED array to produce an altered image where one or more lit LEDs is replaced with a virtual object. The gaming app displays the altered image on the display screen.