Virtual Shuffleboard Puck Tracking Using Laser Beam Interruption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional table shuffleboard games face limitations such as lengthy playing fields, space constraints, lighting issues, cumbersome scorekeeping, and limited adaptability in scoring protocols, which detract from player experience and operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A compact gaming apparatus with a housing, a playing field, and sensors that use laser beams to track puck movement, allowing for virtual puck simulation and automatic scoring, while incorporating a puck return mechanism and low-friction puck design to enhance gameplay and reduce maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional table shuffleboard uses a lengthy playing field (12-24 feet), then the game becomes sufficiently challenging, but the space requirement increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical sensors and lasers to create a virtual representation of the shuffleboard game, copying the essential gameplay elements into a digital environment. This allows the game to be played on a compact physical table while maintaining the challenge of a full-length game through software simulation and digital scoring systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a purely physical two-dimensional playing surface to a three-dimensional system that incorporates vertical mounting of electronic components, optical sensors positioned above the playing field, and digital scoring dimensions. This multi-dimensional approach allows compact physical footprint while maintaining game complexity.
2Illumination intensity
If table shuffleboard includes lighting fixtures mounted on posts, then the playing field becomes visible in low light conditions, but the bulk of the table increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates lighting fixtures directly into the table structure, merging the illumination function with the existing table framework. This eliminates the need for separate posts extending upward from the playing field, reducing overall table bulk while maintaining visibility of the playing surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The table structure is designed to serve multiple functions: the housing provides structural support, houses electronic components, and integrates lighting fixtures. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and minimizes overall table volume.
3Loss of information
If scoreboard is mounted on posts extending from the table, then player scores are displayed, but the bulk of the table shuffleboard game increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the scoreboard and display systems directly into the table housing, merging the scoring function with the existing table structure. This eliminates the need for separate posts extending upward for scoreboard mounting, reducing table bulk while maintaining score visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical sensors and lasers as intermediaries to detect puck position and calculate scores automatically. This eliminates the need for manual scorekeeping and complex scoreboard mechanisms, simplifying the overall table structure.
4Force
If heavy pucks are used in conventional table shuffleboard, then sufficient momentum is imparted for full-length travel, but the playing field surface becomes abraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the weight parameter of the puck, using a lighter puck compared to traditional shuffleboard. This reduces the momentum required for play and minimizes abrasive forces on the playing field surface, thereby reducing wear and maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical detection system with optical sensors and lasers. This substitution eliminates the need for heavy pucks that require mechanical force for detection, allowing lighter pucks to be used without compromising game functionality.
5Reliability
If silicone beads are applied to reduce friction, then puck sliding is improved, but maintenance costs and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a bead dispenser system that automatically applies silicone beads to the playing field as needed, eliminating the need for manual application by players or maintenance staff. The system monitors friction conditions and dispenses beads automatically, providing self-maintenance functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical sensors to detect puck motion and calculate friction conditions. This feedback information is used to determine when silicone beads need to be applied, enabling timely maintenance without manual inspection and optimizing the bead application timing.
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
The solution provides a compact, adaptable, and engaging gaming experience with accurate virtual puck simulation and automatic scoring, reducing space requirements and maintenance needs, while improving player interaction and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first transmitter and a first sensor. The first transmitter and the first sensor may be positioned on opposite sides of the playing field. The first transmitter is configured to transmit a first beam to the first sensor, and the first sensor configured to read the first beam.
Data Source
AI summary
A virtual shuffleboard table gaming apparatus including a housing having a playing field, a game acquisition circuit, and a display. As a puck is propelled towards a puck return at the distal end of the playing field, the puck temporarily obstructs at least two beams from transmitters. Sensors that receive the transmitted beams provide information to the game acquisition circuit indicative of the time when the beams were blocked and unblocked. The duration of time the beams are block are used by a game controller to calculate the angle of travel, location, and velocity of the puck. This information is then used by the game controller to determine the travel path and resting place of a virtual puck on a virtual playing field, as well as determine whether the virtual puck rests in a scoring zone and maintain a game score.