Resilient Dome Sensor for Solo Bubble Game Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a novel, simple, and engaging handheld electronic game that can be played by a single person, as existing competitive games often require multiple players and extensive equipment.
Innovation Solution
A handheld electronic game featuring a housing assembly with resilient domes that can transition from convex to concave, a programmable interactive system including a microprocessor and sensor, and at least one light emitting diode, allowing for individual bubble 'popping' and resetting, with a reset mechanism and varying game modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple players and extensive equipment are used for competitive games, then the excitement and competition level improve, but the device complexity and space requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of multiple players through game software that simulates opponent behavior, allowing a single physical player to engage in competitive gameplay without requiring actual multiple players or extensive equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The handheld device performs multiple functions including playing against human opponents, playing against computer-generated opponents, tracking scores, and providing visual feedback through LEDs, replacing the need for separate equipment for each function
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional competitive games are designed for multiple players, then the competition excitement improves, but the ease of operation for solo players worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The game system dynamically adapts its opponent based on player selection, allowing the same device to function as a two-player competitive game or a single-player game against a computer opponent, making it easily operable by one person while maintaining competitive excitement
Solution Approach 2:
The device includes an integrated microprocessor that automatically manages game logic, score tracking, and opponent behavior without requiring external equipment or additional players, enabling complete solo operation
3Measurement precision
If resilient domes are made highly responsive for precise input detection, then the measurement precision improves, but the reliability of dome transition detection worsens due to potential false triggers
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor provides feedback to the microprocessor about dome transition states, which then controls LED feedback to the player, creating a closed-loop system that confirms proper detection and allows for error correction without false triggers affecting gameplay
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 a solo player to engage in a competitive and challenging game with increasing difficulty levels, using a compact and user-friendly design that incorporates sensors and LEDs for interactive gameplay.
Implementation Method 1
resilient domes having a first surface and a second surface transitionable from a first position wherein the first surface is a convex surface of the dome to a second position wherein the second surface is the convex surface of the dome
Implementation Method 2
the sensor is electrically connected to the microprocessor and is operative to sense when one or more of the elastomeric domes transitions from the first position to the second position or from the second position to the first position
Implementation Method 3
at least one light emitting diode mounted within the housing, electrically connected to the programmable, interactive system
Data Source
AI summary
A handheld electronic game includes a housing assembly; resilient domes protruding from the housing assembly; and a programmable, interactive system and at least one light emitting diode mounted within the housing, electrically connected to the programmable, interactive system. The housing assembly has a front housing portion and a rear housing portion. Each of the domes has a first surface and a second surface. The domes can transition from a first position where the first surface is convex to a second position where the second surface is convex. The programmable, interactive system includes a microprocessor and a sensor. The sensor is electrically connected to the microprocessor and senses when one or more of the domes transitions from the first position to the second position or from the second position to the first position. The domes can be returned to their first position with a reset mechanism or manually.