Multi-User Controller for Cooperative Video Game Play
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current video games do not facilitate cooperative play where multiple players can physically manipulate a shared game object to achieve a common goal, instead focusing on competitive gameplay, which limits their suitability for team-building exercises and inclusive play for individuals with disabilities.
Innovation Solution
A video game controller designed for multiple users that provides kinesthetic feedback, allowing two or more players to jointly manipulate the controller, which can be adapted to existing controllers or shaped as a bar, triangle, square, or ball, enabling cooperative gameplay by transmitting cumulative motion to the game console.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional single-player controller is used, then the controller design is simple and easy to manufacture, but it cannot support cooperative gameplay for multiple players
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple controllers into a single unified controller that can be operated by multiple players simultaneously. The controller integrates multiple input mechanisms (buttons, joysticks, sensors) that detect movements from different players and transmit cumulative motion to the game console, enabling cooperative gameplay while maintaining a single controller structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed to serve multiple functions: it can be operated by different numbers of players (2-4 players), supports various input methods (physical manipulation, motion sensing), and can adapt to different game types (competitive and cooperative). This multi-functionality allows one controller design to replace multiple traditional controllers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a controller is designed for single use, then the control precision is high for one player, but it excludes individuals with physical limitations from playing
Solution Approach 1:
The controller combines the operational capabilities of multiple players into a single device. Players with physical limitations can participate by contributing their movements to the collective control of the game object, reducing the burden on any single player and making the game accessible to those who cannot manipulate a traditional controller alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller uses dynamic motion sensing technology that detects and responds to movements from multiple players in real-time. The system adapts to the combined movements of players, allowing flexible participation where players can adjust their level of physical engagement based on their abilities, thereby accommodating individuals with various physical limitations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple controllers are used for multiple players, then each player has independent control precision, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple separate controllers into a single unified controller. This single controller contains multiple input mechanisms and sensors that can detect and process movements from multiple players simultaneously, eliminating the need for multiple separate controllers while maintaining multi-player support.
Solution Approach 2:
The unified controller is designed to be universally operable by multiple players with different roles and control needs. It integrates various input methods (buttons, joysticks, motion sensors) that can be used by different players according to their preferences and abilities, providing multi-player support through a single multi-functional device.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a video game controller and apparatus that may be used by two or more players. The users physically manipulate the control device cooperatively to the kinesthetic feedback of the other player(s) to control the events of the video game. By working together through orientation of the controller, the players can jointly move the video game object on the screen and/or govern the play of the game.