Pinball Machine Automatic Level Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pinball machines lack advanced features for dynamic interaction between physical and virtual elements, and manual level detection is cumbersome, affecting gameplay experience and setup efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Integration of animated playfield components with automatic level detection using accelerometers, allowing for dynamic visual and audio feedback, and interactive gameplay mechanics that adjust based on leveling information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual level detection is used in pinball machines, then setup procedures can be completed, but the process is cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual level detection (mechanical procedure) with automatic level detection using accelerometers (electronic sensing system). The accelerometers detect the tilt of the playfield and provide electronic signals to the controller, which then adjusts the backbox position automatically, eliminating the need for manual level checking and adjustment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-leveling by using the accelerometer data to automatically adjust the backbox position. The controller monitors the tilt information and autonomously positions the backbox to achieve proper leveling without requiring operator intervention or manual adjustment procedures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional pinball machines are used, then basic gameplay is provided, but dynamic interaction between physical and virtual elements is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the physical playfield environment with virtual display elements by using the accelerometer-derived tilt information to dynamically adjust visual presentations on the backbox display. This creates an integrated system where physical machine orientation directly influences virtual element behavior, enabling dynamic interaction between physical and digital components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the playfield tilt through accelerometers and using this information to dynamically adjust the virtual display elements. The tilt data creates a feedback loop that allows the virtual presentation to respond in real-time to the physical machine's orientation, enabling adaptive gameplay experiences.
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 experience with dynamic interactions between physical and virtual elements and simplifies machine setup by providing accurate and automatic level detection, ensuring optimal playability and player engagement.
Implementation Method 1
one or more accelerometers coupled to the pinball machine, the one or more accelerometers configured to detect leveling information
Data Source
AI summary
Pinball machines with animated playfield components and automatic level detection are described. In an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, a method may include changing a visual appearance of a surface of a physical object within a pinball machine, the physical object configured to physically interact with a pinball during a pinball game. In another illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, a pinball machine may be configured to receive leveling information detected by one or more accelerometers, the leveling information selected from the group consisting of: pitch, roll, and yaw. In yet another illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, a pinball machine may be configured to periodically or continuously receive leveling information detected by one or more accelerometers during a pinball game, and then discourage the player from applying force to the pinball machine in response to the leveling information meeting a value and/or encourage a player to apply force to the pinball machine.