Robotic Gaming System with Embedded Surface Sensors for Automated Ball Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for automated methods to identify when and which pool balls fall into the pockets of a billiard table, especially in robotic games played on such surfaces, as existing systems lack the capability for accurate tracking and scoring.
Innovation Solution
A robotic gaming system with sensors, such as cameras, RFID, and inductive sensors, embedded in the playing surface and pool balls, which track and identify the balls as they enter pockets, allowing for electronic scoring and determination of game winners based on ball values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automated sensors are implemented to identify when and which balls fall into pockets, then measurement precision and automation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated identification system is segmented into multiple independent sensor units distributed across the playing surface, with each sensor capable of independently detecting ball positions and pocket entries. This segmentation allows the complex measurement task to be divided into simpler, localized detection zones, improving measurement precision without requiring a single complex centralized system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sensor elements as intermediary components between the balls and the scoring system. These sensors act as mediators that automatically detect when balls enter pockets and transmit this information to the control system, eliminating the need for manual identification while managing system complexity through standardized intermediary interfaces.
2Productivity
If multiple sensors and electronic systems are added to track balls and determine winners, then productivity and automation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is designed with universal functionality to perform multiple tasks: detecting ball positions, identifying when balls enter pockets, tracking game progress, and determining winners. This multi-functionality improves productivity by consolidating what could be multiple separate systems into a single integrated solution, managing complexity through standardized universal interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic system automatically tracks balls and determines game winners without requiring external intervention or manual scoring. The sensors self-monitor the playing surface and the control system autonomously processes detection data to update scores and declare winners, improving productivity through automated self-service operation while maintaining manageable complexity through rule-based decision logic.
Data Source
AI summary
A robotic gaming system is provided that includes at least one sensor placed on a playing surface. At least one robot is controlled by a player to navigate on the playing surface and manipulate at least one target towards a gate. The sensor is operative for identifying when the target is moved to a scoring region of the playing surface.