Remote Activation Assembly for Coin-Operated Pool Tables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Coin-operated pool tables face challenges with power management due to the continuous drain on batteries from bill acceptors, requiring frequent battery replacements and manual scoring which is prone to human error, and involve time-consuming manual scheduling and record-keeping for league matches and game results.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a remote activation assembly with a processor connected to a currency acceptor, allowing wireless activation of the pool table, automatic scoring using detectable features on pool balls, and a method for electronically tracking game information and scheduling through a computer database.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a bill acceptor is installed in the pool table, then the ability to accept bills is improved, but power consumption increases and requires larger battery or electrical infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the currency acceptance function into two separate components: a remote activation assembly that accepts bills and a pool table that executes game activation. This segmentation allows the bill acceptor to be located away from the pool table, reducing power requirements at the table itself while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
A wireless communication system acts as an intermediary between the bill acceptor and the pool table. The remote activation assembly communicates game activation signals wirelessly to the pool table, eliminating the need for direct electrical connection and reducing power infrastructure requirements at the table location.
2Device complexity
If manual scoring is used, then device complexity is reduced, but scoring accuracy deteriorates due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The pool table system performs self-scoring by automatically detecting when balls are potted and calculating game scores without human intervention. Sensors and processors within the table monitor ball positions and movements, enabling the system to track and record scores autonomously, thereby eliminating human error while maintaining relatively simple operation.
3Device complexity
If manual scheduling and record-keeping is used, then device complexity is reduced, but time consumption increases for staff
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically manages scheduling and record-keeping functions through integrated software and database systems. The pool table autonomously records game results, player information, and scheduling data, eliminating the need for manual staff intervention in these administrative tasks and significantly reducing time consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical record-keeping processes are replaced with electronic data management systems. The system uses computer databases and software to store, retrieve, and manage game records and scheduling information, substituting manual paperwork and human coordination with automated digital processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for play of a parlor entertainment unit including a remote activation assembly and an activation-sensing unit. The activation-sensing unit, which may be battery operated and housed in the entertainment unit, may be in an energy-conserving sleep mode until the activation-sensing unit receives a wake-up signal. In one embodiment, the wake-up signal may be generated by the engagement of an activation mechanism, such as a coin slide. After being awoken, the activation-sensing unit may transmit an inquiry to the remote activation assembly as to whether the associated entertainment unit has been selected for play and/or whether there is a sufficient number of credits available for play. If that entertainment unit has not been selected for play, the activation-sensing unit may return to a sleep mode. However, if sufficient play credits are available for the entertainment unit, play may commence.