Sensor-Based Goal Detection for Table Games
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional table games like foosball lack automatic goal detection and scoring capabilities, requiring manual recording of game results and statistics, which is time-consuming and prone to human error, and do not allow for real-time connectivity or influence on player behavior.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses sensors and a microcontroller connected to a computing device via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to automatically detect goals and transmit data to a mobile device or cloud server, enabling real-time communication and connectivity among players and viewers, and introducing new game modes and incentives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual recording methods are used for game results, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and measurement precision deteriorate due to time consumption and human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical recording methods with an automated optical sensing system. Sensors detect ball position and goal events, converting physical game actions into digital signals that are automatically transmitted to computing devices for scoring and statistics tracking, eliminating manual intervention while maintaining system simplicity through standardized sensor integration
Solution Approach 2:
The game table system performs self-recording of game events through integrated sensors that automatically detect and log goals, ball position, and game statistics without requiring external manual input. The system serves itself by generating and transmitting score data to connected devices, reducing the need for human operators while improving recording accuracy and speed
2Loss of information
If conventional unconnected table games are used, then ease of operation is improved, but loss of information increases as tournament results and statistics cannot be shared with the larger community
Solution Approach 1:
The game table is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a traditional physical game and as a connected data collection system. The same sensor infrastructure that tracks game events also enables tournament management, statistics tracking, and community sharing, allowing a single device to fulfill multiple functions without significantly increasing operational complexity for the player
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computing device and communication module as intermediaries between the physical game table and the digital community. These intermediaries translate physical game events into digital data that can be transmitted over networks, enabling information sharing without requiring players to directly manage complex communication protocols, thus maintaining ease of operation while reducing information loss
3Measurement precision
If manual scoring methods are used, then manufacturing precision requirements are reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to subjectivity and human error in goal detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective human judgment in goal detection with objective optical sensors that automatically detect ball position and goal events. The sensors provide precise measurement of game events through electronic detection, eliminating human error and subjectivity while the standardized sensor designs and tolerance specifications keep manufacturing precision requirements at practical levels
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor ball position and provide real-time data to the scoring system. This feedback loop enables automatic verification of goal events and ball position, ensuring high measurement precision through continuous electronic monitoring rather than periodic manual checking, while the robust feedback algorithms compensate for minor variations in sensor placement
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 real-time automated goal detection and scoring, facilitates creation of new game modes, and builds a larger community around the game by providing real-time statistics and interaction, reducing human error and enhancing player engagement.
Implementation Method 1
a first emitter inside the first goal and a first sensor inside first the goal... detects when a ball has entered the first goal
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for digitally connecting a network of physical games are disclosed. According to one embodiment, a system comprises a table game having a first goal. A first sensor is inside first the goal. The system has a microcontroller in communication with the first sensor that collects first data. A computing device is in communication with the microcontroller that detects when a ball has entered the first goal.