Strain and Motion Sensor Input for Diverse Game Interactions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing input methods for game systems using strain and motion sensors are limited, restricting the variety of user interactions.

Innovation Solution

A game system comprising a main body apparatus, left and right controllers, and extension apparatuses that allow for diverse user inputs through the use of ring- and belt-shaped extensions, enabling deformation and motion-based interactions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If strain sensor and motion sensor are unified in a single input apparatus, then device integration is improved, but user input method variety deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor integrationVSAvoiduser input method variety
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The input system is divided into multiple independent input apparatuses (first input apparatus with strain sensor, second input apparatus with motion sensor) that can be used separately or in combination, allowing diverse input methods while maintaining sensor integration benefits

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system supports multiple input methods through different apparatuses (strain-based input, motion-based input, and combined input), making the game system adaptable to various user preferences and game scenarios while utilizing integrated sensing capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple input apparatuses are used, then user input method variety is improved, but device complexity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser input method varietyVSAvoidsystem configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple input apparatuses are merged into a unified game system with centralized control, where the processor coordinates inputs from both strain sensors and motion sensors, reducing the perceived complexity for users while maintaining input variety

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If extension apparatuses are added, then functionality is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinteraction capabilityVSAvoidsetup complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The extension apparatuses feature adjustable and reconfigurable designs that can be adapted to different user needs and game types, allowing the system to dynamically change its configuration rather than requiring complex fixed setups

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 the variety of user input methods by allowing for deformation and motion-based interactions, increasing engagement and functionality in game play.

Implementation Method 1

a strain detector that detects, when the ring-shaped portion is deformed

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectStrain detection: Piezoresistive Effect

Implementation Method 2

a motion detector that detects, when the controller is moved

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMotion detection: Accelerometer

Data Source

PatentEP3785774B1Information processing system, information processing program, information processing apparatus, and information processing method
Publication Date: 2025.07.09 NINTENDO CO LTD
  • EP3785774B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3785774B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3785774B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An example information processing system includes a first input apparatus including a strain sensor, a second input apparatus including a motion sensor, and an information processing apparatus. The strain sensor provides an output corresponding to a force applied to at least a portion of the first input apparatus. The motion sensor provides an output corresponding to a motion of the second input apparatus. The information processing apparatus includes a data obtaining section and a game processing section. The data obtaining section obtains strain data corresponding to the output of the strain sensor and motion data corresponding to the output of the motion sensor. The game processing section executes first control on an object disposed in a virtual space based on the strain data, and second control on the object based on the motion data, the second control being different from the first control.