Mesh Network Gaming System Dynamic Area Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gaming systems, such as laser tagging systems, face challenges in dynamically adjusting the game area and player interactions without external communication networks, limiting flexibility and player engagement.
Innovation Solution
A radio mesh network gaming system that includes handheld gaming devices with controllers, radio communication circuits, and batteries, allowing devices to form a mesh network, store routing tables, and update game state information, enabling dynamic game area adjustments and player interactions without external networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If gaming devices use external cellular networks for communication, then network coverage and connectivity are improved, but device complexity and dependency on external infrastructure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces mesh network routing tables as an intermediary mechanism that enables direct peer-to-peer communication between gaming devices. Each device stores routing information that allows it to forward messages to other devices in the network without requiring external cellular infrastructure, thus resolving the contradiction between maintaining connectivity and reducing external dependency
Solution Approach 2:
The gaming devices form a self-contained mesh network where each device independently maintains routing tables and forwards messages to others. This self-service capability allows the network to operate autonomously without external cellular networks, improving reliability while reducing device complexity related to external infrastructure dependency
2Adaptability or versatility
If the game area is fixed and predefined, then system complexity is reduced, but adaptability to player movements and dynamic game scenarios deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic game area determination where the playing area is not fixed but continuously adjusts based on the positions and movements of gaming devices. The mesh network automatically recalculates routing paths and game boundaries as devices move, enabling the system to adapt to dynamic scenarios without requiring complex centralized control
Solution Approach 2:
The game area is segmented into virtual zones defined by the relative positions of gaming devices in the mesh network. Each device contributes to defining the overall game area through its position and communication range, allowing the system to create flexible, player-defined boundaries rather than relying on predefined fixed areas
3Productivity
If gaming devices continuously update and communicate game state information, then player engagement and game dynamics are improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic broadcasting of game state information where devices transmit updates at intervals rather than continuously. This periodic action maintains player engagement through regular state synchronization while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous communication
Solution Approach 2:
The mesh network implements feedback mechanisms where devices selectively update and transmit game state information based on significant changes in game conditions. When game state changes occur (such as player hits or area adjustments), devices communicate these updates through the mesh network, providing timely feedback to players while minimizing unnecessary transmissions to conserve battery power
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 flexible and dynamic game environments, allowing for changes in the game area based on player movements and device additions/removals, enhancing player engagement and game experience without relying on cellular networks.
Implementation Method 1
The optical receiver detects optical signals output by other laser tagger devices
Implementation Method 2
The optical transmitter outputs optical signals directed to other laser tagger devices
Implementation Method 3
A radio mesh network gaming system comprises a gaming device that includes a controller, a radio communication circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A radio mesh network gaming system comprises a gaming device that includes a controller. The controller maintains a routing table and game state information. The gaming device forms a radio mesh network along with other gaming devices. The routing table stores next hop information for communicating with other devices over the radio mesh network. The radio mesh network determines a playing area of a game and the playing area changes as gaming devices move throughout the playing area and are added or removed from the game. In one example communication between from a first and third device, the first device communicates the information to a second device in accordance with next hop information stored in the routing table of the first device. The second device then communicates the information to the third device in accordance with next hop information stored in a routing table of the second gaming device.