Skateboard-Shaped Game Controller with Position and Proximity Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Video game controllers often detract from the immersive experience of simulated environments, as they are generic and not adaptable to real-world items, and video game consoles are typically configured for specific controllers, limiting the use of real-world objects in game play.
Innovation Solution
A video game system comprising a board-like peripheral with position and proximity sensors, and a transmitter that communicates with a video game console to determine steering directions and modify game states based on user input, allowing for a more immersive experience by simulating real-world actions like skateboarding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a generic video game controller is used, then the controller can be used for a variety of video games, but it detracts from the immersive experience of the simulated environment
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed with a flat upper surface that can function as both a traditional gaming surface and a skateboarding surface, allowing it to serve multiple purposes. The position sensing device and proximity sensors enable the controller to detect both traditional button presses and physical skateboarding movements, making it universally applicable for both conventional gaming and immersive skateboarding simulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The position sensing device and proximity sensors act as intermediaries between the physical skateboarding actions and the digital game environment. These sensors translate real-world movements into digital signals that the video game console can process, creating a bridge between the physical and virtual domains.
2Reliability
If video game consoles are configured for specific controllers, then communication with the controller is optimized, but real world items cannot be adapted for use in the video game environment
Solution Approach 1:
The controller maintains its ability to communicate reliably with the video game console through standard communication protocols while simultaneously serving as a platform for real-world skateboarding interactions. The position sensing device and proximity sensors enable the controller to interpret both traditional button inputs and physical skateboarding movements through the same communication channel.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical button presses are replaced with or supplemented by electronic sensing mechanisms. The position sensing device detects the controller's position in space, and proximity sensors detect the presence of objects near the controller, substituting mechanical input methods with electronic detection methods that can capture real-world skateboarding actions.
3Measurement precision
If position sensing devices and proximity sensors are added to the controller, then real-world actions can be detected accurately, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The position sensing device and proximity sensors are integrated into the controller housing, merging multiple sensing functions into a single device. The position sensing device is fixedly coupled to the housing, and the proximity sensors are incorporated into the same structure, combining what would otherwise be separate systems into one unified controller.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller serves multiple functions: traditional button input, position tracking, and proximity detection. By consolidating these functions into a single device with a flat upper surface that can be used for both traditional gaming and skateboarding simulation, the overall system complexity is managed despite the addition of multiple sensing capabilities.
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
Enhances player engagement by allowing real-world actions to be translated into game inputs, providing a more immersive experience and enabling the use of real-world items in video games through accurate detection and processing of user interactions.
Implementation Method 1
a position related sensing device fixedly coupled to the housing to providing housing position related information
Implementation Method 2
at least one proximity sensor to provide object detection information of objects proximate to the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A video game controller with a position sensor and a proximity sensor provides user input signals for use in determining game states. The video game controller can have a board or deck like surface similar to that of a skateboard, and the proximity sensor can be used to determine if a grab of the board has been attempted. A video game associated with the video game controller can provide a skateboard or other game in which a skateboard and skateboarding character are responsive to a game player's manipulation of the video game controller.