Patent Grant
12345406
This document relates generally to billiard table accessories, and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to systems, devices, and methods for interacting with a user to enhance the gameplay experience using light emitting diodes (LEDs).
The game of billiards has been around for over six hundred years without much change in the game's appearance or play. The game of billiards is losing popularity as a pastime with the introduction of gaming systems, or other technology such as computers and phones. For example, in a typical public setting, one is likely to see more people attracted to their own phones than the standard pool table. Additionally, many families may purchase a pool table for their homes, but they often quickly bore of the new purchase and fail to use it.
There is a need for an attraction to enhance the game of billiards for players of all abilities through user-interaction.
An example (e.g., “Example 1”) of a system for use with a billiards table may include addressable multi-color LED strips, a controller and a user device. Each of the LED strips may have a length corresponding to a length of a bumper of the billiards table. Each bumper of the billiards table corresponds to one of the addressable multi-color LED strips (e.g., the LED strip substantially spans a length of the bumper). Each the LED strips may be electrically connected in series, and include a plurality of LEDs and a plurality of addressable pixels. Each of the addressable pixels may include one or more of the plurality of LEDs. The controller may be connected to an end of the series-connected LED strips, and may be configured to send signals through the LED strips to control which one or more pixels are activated and one or more colors of light to be produced by corresponding one or more LEDs for the one or more activated pixels. The user device may be configured to communicate with the controller and to implement a program configured to enable a user of the user device to send lighting commands to the controller during gameplay. The lighting commands may be indicative of user-desired changes to lighting provided by the addressable multi-color LED strips. The controller may be configured to implement the commands by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color LED light strips to implement the changes to the lighting.
In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 may optionally be configured such that the lighting commands include a call-your-shot command that is indicative of a selection of a pocket. The controller may be configured to implement the call-your-shot command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color light strips to identify the selection of the pocket using an identifiable color for one or more pixels proximate to the pocket.
In Example 3, the subject matter of Example 2 may optionally be configured such that the selection of the pocket may be identified by lighting at least one pixel on each side of the pocket using the identifiable color. Alternatively, the pocket may be identified using pixel(s) on only one side of the pocket. Additionally, or alternatively, pocket LEDs positioned at the pocket may be used to identify the pocket.
In Example 4, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 2-3 may optionally be configured such that a remainder of the pixels around the table correspond to another color different from the identifiable color.
In Example 5, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 2-4 may optionally be configured such that the selection of the pocket is identified using a static light pattern by providing, until another command is received or a timer expires, constant red, green and blue values to the same one or more pixels proximate to the pocket.
In Example 6, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 2-5 may optionally be configured such that the selection of the pocket is identified using an animated light pattern by performing, until another command is received or a timer expires, a process that includes: varying at least one of a red value, a green value or a blue value to the one or more pixels, or providing light to different ones of the one or more pixels proximate to the pocket.
In Example 7, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-6 may optionally be configured such that the lighting commands include a pattern command that is indicative of a selection of a pattern. The controller may be configured to implement the pattern command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color light strips to provide a spatial pattern of light along the addressable multi-color LED strips according to the selection and provide a temporal pattern for changing the spatial pattern of light over time.
In Example 8, the subject matter of Example 7 may optionally be configured such that the spatial pattern is provided by sending RGB values to one or more LED controllers associated with one or more pixels, and the temporal pattern is provided by varying at least one of a red value, a green value or a blue value to the one or more pixels, or providing light to different ones of the one or more pixels proximate to the pocket.
In Example 9, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-8 may optionally be configured such that the lighting commands include at least one scorekeeper command that is indicative of at least a score between two players or two teams. The controller may be configured to implement the at least one scorekeeper command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color LED strips to light up corresponding sections of the LED strips to identify the score. Each section of the LED strips includes one or more pixels.
In Example 10, the subject matter of Example 9 may optionally be configured such that the at least one scorekeeper command is further indicative of a number of points to win a game. The controller may be configured to implement the at least one scorekeeper command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color LED strips to indicate when the game has been won.
In Example 11, the subject matter of Example 10 may optionally be configured such that the at least one scorekeeper command is further indicative of a number of games to win a set. The controller may be configured to implement the at least one scorekeeper command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color LED strips to show the number of games to win the set, show a current number of games won by each player or team, and indicate when the set has been won.
In Example 12, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 10-11 may optionally be configured such that the at least one scorekeeper command is further indicative of a selected game type from at least two different game types to score. The at least two different game types may include different scoring rules. The controller may be configured to implement the at least one scorekeeper command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color LED strips to indicate scores according to a corresponding scoring rule for the selected game type.
In Example 13, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-12 may optionally be configured such that the user device may include a phone or tablet configured to wirelessly communicate with the controller.
In Example 14, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-13 may optionally be configured such that wherein the user device includes a touchscreen monitor on or near the table, wherein the touchscreen monitor is configured communicate with the controller.
In Example 15, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-14 may optionally be configured such that the lighting commands include a game command that is indicative of a color game. The controller is configured to implement the game command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color light strips to implement a process for the color game. The process for the color game may include lighting different pockets with different colors that are associated with different values, and scoring the color game according to values associated with the pocket in which a ball is hit.
In Example 16, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-15 may optionally be configured such that the lighting commands include a game command that is indicative of a capture-the-hole game. The controller may be configured to implement the game command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color light strips to implement a process for the capture-the-hole game. The process for the capture-the-hole game lights pixels corresponding to each pocket with either a first color associated with a first player or first team or a second color associated with a second player or a second team. The user may be able to choose the color for a given one of the pockets wherein the color is associated with the first or second player or team who last hit a ball into the given one of the pockets. The color game is won when all pockets are associated with a same color.
Example 17 includes subject matter (such as a method) that may include placing corresponding ones of six LED strips on, in or near corresponding ones of six bumpers, and electrically connecting the LED strips in series. Each of the LED strips may include a plurality of LEDs and a plurality of addressable pixels. Each of the addressable pixels may include one or more of the plurality of LEDs. A controller may be connected to an end of the series-connected LED strips. The controller may be configured to send signals through the LED strips to control which one or more pixels are activated and one or more colors of light to be produced by the corresponding LEDs. A program may be implemented on a user device that is configured to communicate with the controller. The program may be implemented to enable a user of the user device to send lighting commands to the controller during gameplay. The lighting commands may be indicative of user-desired changes to lighting provided by the addressable multi-color LED strips. The controller may be configured to implement the commands by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color LED light strips to implement the changes to the lighting.
In Example 18, the subject matter of Example 17 may optionally be configured such that the lighting commands include a call-your-shot command that is indicative of a selection of a pocket. The controller may be used to implement the call-your-shot command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color light strips to identify the selection of the pocket using an identifiable color for one or more pixels proximate to the pocket.
In Example 19, the subject matter of Example 18 may optionally be configured such that the selection of the pocket may be identified by lighting at least one pixel on each side of the pocket using the identifiable color.
In Example 20, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 18-19 may optionally be configured such that a remainder of the pixels around the table correspond to another color different from the identifiable color.
In Example 21, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 17-20 may optionally be configured such that the lighting commands include a pattern command that is indicative of a selection of a pattern. The controller may be used to implement the pattern command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color light strips to provide a temporal and spatial pattern of light along the addressable multi-color LED strips according to the selection.
In Example 22, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 17-21 may optionally be configured such that the lighting commands include at least one scorekeeper command that is indicative of at least a score between two players or two teams. The controller may be used to implement the at least one scorekeeper command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color LED strips to light up corresponding sections of the LED strips to identify the score. Each section of the LED strips includes one or more pixels.
In Example 23, the subject matter of Example 22 may optionally be configured such that the at least one scorekeeper command is further indicative of a number of points to win a game. The controller may be used to implement the at least one scorekeeper command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color LED strips to indicate when the game has been won.
In Example 24, the subject matter of Example 23 may optionally be configured such that the at least one scorekeeper command is further indicative of a number of games to win a set. The controller may be used to implement the at least one scorekeeper command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color LED strips to show the number of games to win the set, a current number of games won by each player or team and indicate when the set has been won.
In Example 25, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 22-24 may optionally be configured such that the at least one scorekeeper command is further indicative of a selected game type from at least two different game types to score. The at least two different game types may include different scoring rules. The controller may be used to implement the at least one scorekeeper command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color LED strips to indicate scores according to a corresponding scoring rule for the selected game type.
In Example 26, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 17-25 may optionally be configured such that the user device is configured to wirelessly communicate with the controller. The user device may include a phone, tablet or remote control.
In Example 27, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 17-26 may optionally be configured such that the user device includes a touchscreen monitor or a control device, with manual actuators, on or near the table. The touch screen monitor or the control device may be configured to communicate with the controller. The manual actuators for control device may include at least one of buttons, slides, or joysticks.
In Example 28, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 17-27 may optionally be configured such that the lighting commands may include a game command that is indicative of a color game. The controller may be used to implement the game command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color light strips to light different pockets with different colors that are associated with different values, and score the color game according to values associated with the pocket in which a ball is hit.
In Example 29, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 17-28 may optionally be configured such that the lighting commands include a game command that is indicative of a capture-the-hole game. The controller may be used to implement the game command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color light strips to implement a process for the capture-the-hole game. The process for the capture-the-hole game may be configured to light pixels corresponding to each pocket with either a first color associated with a first player or first team or a second color associated with a second player or a second team. The user may be able to choose the color for a given one of the pockets, where the color is associated with the first or second player or team who last hit a ball into the given one of the pockets, wherein the color game is won when all pockets are associated with a same color.
In Example 30, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 17-29 may optionally be configured such that the placing addressable multi-color LED strips on a billiards table includes placing at least one diffuser along each bumper of the billiards table.
In Example 31, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 17-30 may optionally be configured such that each diffuser has a geometrical shape of a triangular prism that is generally complementary to a profile of each of the six bumpers such that the diffusers may be positioned on a surface of the billiard table under the bumpers.
Example 32 includes subject matter (such as a method, means for performing acts, machine readable medium including instructions that when performed by a machine cause the machine to perform acts, or an apparatus to perform). The subject matter may be performed using addressable multi-color LED strips around a billiards table. The subject matter may include: implementing a program on a user device that is configured to communicate with the controller. the program may be implemented to enable a user of the user device to send lighting commands to a controller during gameplay. The lighting commands may be indicative of user-desired changes to lighting provided by the addressable multi-color LED strips. The subject matter may include implementing the commands using the controller by sending corresponding signals from the controller to the addressable multi-color LED light strips to implement the changes to the lighting. The corresponding signals may control which one or more pixels from a plurality of addressable pixels are activated.
In Example 33, the subject matter of Example 32 may optionally be configured such that the lighting commands include at least one of: a scorekeeper command for using light from the LED strips to indicate at least a score between two players or two teams; a game command for using light from the LED strips to play a color game or a capture-the-hole game; a pattern command for providing a temporal and spatial pattern of light along the addressable multi-color LED strips; or a call-your-shot command for using light from the LED strips to identify a selection of a pocket.
In Example 34, the subject matter of Example 33 may optionally be configured such that the call-your-shot command is implemented by using the controller to send corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color light strips to identify the selection of the pocket using an identifiable color for one or more pixels proximate to the pocket. The selection of the pocket may be identified using a static light pattern by providing, until another command is received or a timer expires, constant red, green and blue values to the same one or more pixels proximate to the pocket.
In Example 35, the subject matter of Example 33 may optionally be configured such that the call-your-shot command is implemented by using the controller to send corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color light strips to identify the selection of the pocket using an identifiable color for one or more pixels proximate to the pocket. The selection of the pocket may be identified, until another command is received or a timer expires, using an animated light pattern provided by: varying at least one of a red value, a green value or a blue value to the one or more pixels, or providing light to different ones of the one or more pixels proximate to the pocket.
In Example 36, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 32-35 may optionally be configured such that the pattern command is implemented by using the controller to send corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color light strips to provide a spatial pattern of light along the addressable multi-color LED strips according to the selection and provide a temporal pattern for changing the spatial pattern of light over time. The spatial pattern may be provided by sending RGB values to one or more LED controllers associated with one or more pixels. The temporal pattern may be provided by varying at least one of a red value, a green value or a blue value to the one or more pixels, or providing light to different ones of the one or more pixels proximate to the pocket.
In Example 37, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 32-36 may optionally be configured such that the at least one scorekeeper command is implemented by using the controller to send corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color LED strips to light up corresponding sections of the LED strips to identify the score. Each section of the LED strips may include one or more pixels. The at least one scorekeeper keeper command may be further indicative of a number of points to win a game, and the controller may be configured to implement the at least one scorekeeper command by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color LED strips to indicate when the game has been won.
In Example 38, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 32-37 may optionally be configured such that the at least one scorekeeper command is further indicative of a selected game type from at least two different game types to score. The at least two different game types include different scoring rules. The at least one scorekeeper command may be implemented by using the controller to send corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color LED strips to indicate scores according to a corresponding scoring rule for the selected game type.
In Example 39, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 32-38 may optionally be configured such that the game command is for a color game and is implemented by using the controller to send corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color light strips to light different pockets with different colors that are associated with different values, and score the color game according to values associated with the pocket in which a ball is hit.
In Example 40, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 32-39 may optionally be configured such that the game command is for a capture-the-hole game and is implemented by using the controller to send corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color light strips to light pixels corresponding to each pocket with either a first color associated with a first player or first team or a second color associated with a second player or a second team, wherein the user is able to choose the color for a given one of the pockets, the color being associated with the first or second player or team who last hit a ball into the given one of the pockets, and wherein the color game is won when all pockets are associated with a same color.
Example 41 includes subject matter (such as a kit for distribution to a user) that may include addressable multi-color LED strips, a system controller and connectors. The addressable multi-color LED strips may include at least a first LED strip for substantially spanning the known length, at least a second LED strip for substantially spanning the known length, at least a third LED strip for substantially spanning the known length, at least a fourth LED strip for substantially spanning the known length, at least a fifth LED strip for substantially spanning the known length, and at least a sixth LED strip for substantially spanning the known length. Each of the LED strips may include a plurality of LEDs and a plurality of addressable pixels. Each of the addressable pixels may include one or more of the plurality of LEDs. Each of the LED strips may include a plurality of addressable LED controllers to control a pixel of LEDS, a power conductor and a reference potential conductor connected to each of the plurality of addressable LED controllers, and a signal conductor serially connecting the plurality of addressable LED controllers. The system controller may be configured for use to provide control signals to the addressable multi-color LED light strips for controlling which one or more pixels are activated and one or more colors of light to be produced by the corresponding LEDs. The connectors are configured for use to connect the system controller to the at least the first LED strip, including connect a power output of the system controller to the power conductor of the at least the first LED strip, connect a reference potential output of the system controller to the reference potential conductor of the at least the first LED strip, and connect a signal output to the signal conductor of the at least the first LED strip; serially connect the at least the first and the at least the second LED strips, including connect the power conductors together, connecting the reference potential conductors together and connecting the signal conductors together; serially connect the at least the second and the at least the third LED strips, including connect the power conductors together, connecting the reference potential conductors together and connecting the signal conductors together; serially connect the at least the third and the at least the fourth LED strips, including connect the power conductors together, connecting the reference potential conductors together and connecting the signal conductors together; serially connect the at least the fourth and the at least the fifth LED strips, including connect the power conductors together, connecting the reference potential conductors together and connecting the signal conductors together; and serially connect the at least the fifth and the at least the sixth LED strips, including connect the power conductors together, connecting the reference potential conductors together and connecting the signal conductors together.
In Example 42, the subject matter of Example 41 may optionally be configured to further include an adhesive for applying the addressable multi color LED strips to a surface.
In Example 43, the subject matter of Example 42 may optionally be configured such that the adhesive includes adhesive strips on the addressable multi-color LED strips.
In Example 44, the subject matter of Example 41 may optionally be configured to further include diffusers. Each of the diffusers may have a length corresponding to lengths of the addressable multi-color LED strips. The diffusers are configured to diffuse light from the corresponding LED strips.
In Example 45, the subject matter of Example 44 may optionally be configured such that each diffuser has a geometrical shape of a triangular prism that is generally complementary to a profile of each of the six bumpers such that the diffusers may be positioned on a surface of the billiard table under the bumpers.
In Example 46, the subject matter of any one of Examples 44-45 may optionally be configured such that the diffusers are fabricated from a polycarbonate material.
In Example 47, the subject matter of any one of Examples 44-46 may optionally be configured such that the diffusers include six diffusers. Each of the six diffusers may substantially span the known length of the bumpers.
In Example 48, the subject matter of any one of Examples 44-46 may optionally be configured such that the diffusers include at least two diffusers for each of the six bumpers. The at least two diffusers may substantially span the known length of the bumpers.
In Example 49, the subject matter of Example 48 may optionally be configured such that the addressable multi-color LED strips include at least two LED strips for each of the six bumpers, each of the at least two LED strips substantially spanning a diffuser length.
In Example 50, the subject matter of any one of Examples 48-49 may optionally be configured such that the diffuser is formed around to encase the corresponding LED strip. The at least two diffusers may be configured with plug and socket connectors for making electrical connections between the at least two LED strips.
In Example 51, the subject matter of any one of Examples 41-50 may optionally be configured to further include adhesive (e.g., adhesive strips) for applying the diffusers to a surface.
In Example 52, the subject matter of any one of Examples 41-51 may optionally be configured to further include a power source. The power source may include a plug-in power source or a rechargeable battery.
In Example 53, the subject matter of any one of Examples 41-52 may optionally be configured to further include a downloadable app configured to be implemented on a user device. The user device may be configured to wirelessly communicate with the system controller, and the app implemented on the user device may be configured to enable a user of the user device to send lighting commands to the controller during gameplay. The lighting commands may be indicative of user-desired changes to lighting provided by the addressable multi-color LED strips. The controller may be configured to implement the commands by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color LED light strips to implement the changes to the lighting.
This Summary is an overview of some of the teachings of the present application and not intended to be an exclusive or exhaustive treatment of the present subject matter. Further details about the present subject matter are found in the detailed description and appended claims. Other aspects of the disclosure will be apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the following detailed description and viewing the drawings that form a part thereof, each of which are not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.
Various embodiments are illustrated by way of example in the figures of the accompanying drawings. Such embodiments are demonstrative and not intended to be exhaustive or exclusive embodiments of the present subject matter.
The following detailed description of the present subject matter refers to the accompanying drawings which show, by way of illustration, specific aspects and embodiments in which the present subject matter may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present subject matter. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present subject matter. References to “an”, “one”, or “various” embodiments in this disclosure are not necessarily to the same embodiment, and such references contemplate more than one embodiment. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of legal equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
The present subject matter provides user-interaction with LEDs to enhance the game of billiards for players of all abilities. The LEDs may assist and/or guide the players to a more enjoyable and entertaining game. It not only brings LED lights specifically fit for a billiards table, but also provide an attractive system with modes or functions specific to the game of billiards. It combines the eye-catching appeal of LED lights with the fun of new ways to play pool and interaction between the player and the table. It gives business owners the ability to highlight their beautiful tables and attract more players and business, and can excite families to regularly use their pool table given its many possible customizations.
The manual controller (or analog controller) may communicate with the system controller over a wired connection, or may wirelessly communicate with the system controller. In some embodiments, the user device 209 may include a table monitor 214 that is more permanently associated with the table. For example, the table monitor may be a monitor mounted to a side of the table. Some user interface may use touch screens (e.g., phone, tablet, and/or table monitor). Other user interfaces are contemplated, including keyboards, joystick, knobs, buttons, and the like. The user interface is configured for use to allow a user to control one or more features of the present subject matter, such as a Scorekeeper feature, a call-your-shot feature, a Game feature, and/or a Patterns feature. User interfaces for use with these and other features are discussed in more detail below with respect to a downloadable app for a smart phone.
The kit may include a separate adhesive 1227 for applying the six addressable multi color LED strips to a surface. In some embodiments, each of the LED strips includes an adhesive strip for use to attach the LED strips to a surface. The kit may include adhesives for the diffusers for applying the diffusers to a surface.
Some kit embodiments further include six diffusers 1223 configured to diffuse light from the LED strips. For example, the diffusers may be configured for the LED strips to be inserted therein. In some embodiments, the LED strips are within the diffusers in the kit. Each of the diffusers having a length corresponding to the known length, wherein the six diffusers have an open end and are configured with an interior to hold the six LED strips, respectively.
The kit may further include a downloadable app configured to be implemented on a user device that is configured to wirelessly communicate with the system controller. The app implemented on the user device is configured to enable a user of the user device to send lighting commands to the controller during gameplay. The lighting command may be indicative of user-desired changes to lighting provided by the addressable multi-color LED strips, and the controller is configured to implement the commands by sending corresponding signals to the addressable multi-color LED light strips to implement the changes to the lighting. The kit may include a table monitor, and/or a manual controller such as but not limited to a gaming controller.
The system controller may be a microcontroller embedded on a board with 12v input, 12v output, 5v output, and one signal input and one signal output pin. The kit may include a 12v AC/DC Power Adapter and/or a 12V rechargeable battery, a sound detector, and wire screw on connectors. The kit may include instructions for setting up the system and/or operating the system. The 12v AC/DC adapter may be plugged into a power outlet and into the board to give the system power. After this, the phone application may be opened on the phone and connected to the board. From this, the user can control the system. The user can, through the phone application, control which mode the system is in and if the sound sensor should be used. This control is done by the application sending bytes to the microcontroller through Bluetooth, BLE, or Wi-Fi. If a sound-activated mode is selected by the user, the microcontroller will read data sent by the sensor and use that data to determine when and/or the lights should be illuminated. The microcontroller controls the lights by sending commands along the data line of the strips through the data output line. It, by command of the app, controls which specific strips and which parts of the strips illuminate, and how they illuminate. The wires and wire screws connect and led strips to each other and allow power to be transferred in series and one continuous data line. Components can be interchanged or replaced to perform an identical function as stated in the next section. Sensors in the holes or on the table, such as but not limited to force sensing resistors (a variable resistance force sensor) or light-sensitive sensors, can be added to give the microcontroller more data to control the lights. An example of an on-the table sensor includes sensors in or on the diffusers near the end of the diffuser. Thus, sensors can be positioned on opposing sides of the pocket, and can be configured to sense when a ball goes past the sensors into the hole.
Other sensor examples include RFID sensing and optical sensing using cameras/light sensors. For example, the balls may be configured to include RFID chips. RFID readers, configured to read the RFID chips, may be positioned at the end of the diffusers or in the table (e.g., near the pockets), in the pocket, or adjacent to or in the pocket. When a ball drops, the RFID reader may read which chip fell in to the pocket, may send a signal to the controller, and the controller uses that information to run a feature and control the lights. An optical example using a camera and lighting example may use cameras or light sensors at the end of the diffusers or in or adjacent to the pocket to tell when a ball is shot into a pocket and which ball fell into the pocket.
Some examples of the present subject matter may be configured to interact with Internet Of Things (IoT) devices. IoT devices may be embedded with sensors and software to connect with other devices using the internet. For example, a cloud-based voice service may be accessed to enable players to use voice commands (e.g., “pocket 6”) to interact with the system. Voice commands may be a relatively easy way to interact with the system during game play (e.g., when a player is lining up the next shot).
The selection of the other button or control may cause the user device to move to the “Other Mode” Screen (see
The following examples are provided by way of example and not limitation. Selection of Snake 1 may cause the system controller to pick a random light color. The pixel to the left of one center pocket and to the right of another may light up with that color. After a delay, the pixel to the left of the first and to the right of the second may light up while keeping the first pixels lit. This process repeats until all of the pixels are lit up the same color. In other words, the effect is a counterclockwise rotation of light, one strand starting from the left of one center pocket and the other strand starting from the right. Once all of the pixels are the same color, the system controller may repeat the process. Selection of Snake 2 may cause the system controller to pick two random light colors. The pixel to the left of one side pocket may light up with the first color and the right of another side pocket will light up with the second color. After a delay, the pixel to the left of the first and to the right of the second will light up while keeping the first pixels lit. The one to the left of first will have the same color as the light adjacent and the one to the right the same as the one adjacent. This process may repeat until all of the pixels are lit up, half the pixels one color and the other half the second color. In other words, the effect is a counterclockwise rotation of light, one strand starting from the left of one center pocket with its own color and the other strand starting from the right with its own color. Once half the pixels are one color and half the other, the system controller will repeat this process.
Selection of Alternating may cause the system controller to select two different colors, lighting up odd numbered pixels the first color and the even colored pixels the second. After a delay, the system controller may repeat the process. Selection of Windmill may cause the system controller to select a random color. The pixel on the counterclockwise direction side of each pocket may light up with that color. After a delay, the adjacent pixel in the counterclockwise direction on each of the six strips may light up. The process may continue until all of the pixels are the same color. The process may be repeated.
Selection of Bounce may cause the system controller to make a first random selection of a color. The pixel on the counterclockwise direction side of each pocket may light up with that color. After a delay, the adjacent pixel in the counterclockwise direction on each of the six strips may light up. The process may repeat until all of the pixels are the same color. After this, the system controller may make a second selection of a random color. The pixel on the clockwise direction side of each pocket may light up with that color. After a delay, the adjacent pixel in the clockwise direction on each of the six strips may light up. The process may repeat until all of the pixels are the same color. The process may repeat with another first random selection of a color. Another pattern “Middle Bounce” may be similar to Bounce, except that the starting pixel is in the middle of the bumper, and the adjacent pixels on each side of the middle pixels are lit, etc. until the bumper is completely lighted up. Holiday patterns (e.g., Christmas) may be created. These Holiday patterns may be a seasonal update for the app.
Selection of Casino may cause the system controller to select a random color. The pixel on the counterclockwise direction side of each pocket may light up with that color. After a very short delay, the adjacent pixel in the counterclockwise direction on each of the six strips may light up. The process may repeat until all of the pixels are the same color. After this, there is a long delay, and the system controller may repeat the process.
Selection of Ambient may cause the system controller to light up all of the pixels with a color value of 0. After a short delay, the system controller may add one to the value, slightly changing the color. It delays again and adds one. It will repeat delaying and adding one until it reaches 255. At this point, it will reset to 0 and repeat the delaying and adding one to the color value. Selection of One Color may cause the system controller to display a number of colors (e.g., 8 colors) for user-selection. Once a color is selected, the system controller may light all of the pixels to that one color. Selection of Bright may send the user to the brightness settings where they are able to adjust the brightness of the lights.
Various embodiments may use a microphone (as shown in
The object of the capture-the-hole game (see
The object of the color game (see
The object of the Timer game mode (see
Other game modes may be provided. For example, a Ricochet game mode has similarities to the Color game mode. Players score points in Ricochet by bouncing balls off of rails and into pockets. An Opponent Oppression game mode may enable an opponent to call the pocket such that, in a two-player game, a first player calls the pocket for the second player, and the second player calls the pocket for the first player.
Shot Guide is a tool (see
The Games for player one/two to win the set enable the user to change the variables on the system controller that identifies how many games each player needs to win, and the sets/matches to win changes the variable for how many sets/matches the players intend to play. The play button sends the user to the Scorekeeper main page. As generally illustrated in
The player 1 win button instructs the system controller that player one won. The system controller will light up the next section on player one's side (1-12) with their color (e.g., blue) while still illuminating the previous sections. Example, if player one won their fifth game, the system controller will illuminate sections one through five. It lights up the sections from low to high. If player one has won the same number of games as his “games for player one to win” variable, the system controller may clear all the sections on both ends, illuminate the section number of the “games for player one to win” one player one's side (same process one player two's side), and light up the next section (A-H). For example, if player one won the game for his 3rd set, the game sections will not be lit up and sections A, B, C will be lit. Sections (A-H) are lit up in orange color. If they have won as many games as their variable and also won the number of sets to match the “Sets/Matches to win variable”, the system controller will clear all pixels and perform automated light animations in the color blue to show that player one has won. Selection of the Player 2 Win button causes a similar response as selection of the player 1 win button.
The show score button may cause the system controller to light the sections according to how many games/sets each player has won. The show score may be toggled on and off (e.g., white button corresponds to showing score and green button corresponds to not showing score. All of the pixels are off if the score is not being shown.
The edit button may take the user to the edit page. While this page is present on the controller or user device, all of the pixels will be illuminated on full brightness and a random color. This will let everyone know that an edit is being made. The user is able to edit the scores of each player on this screen. After the edit is complete, the new scores are sent to the system controller. It illuminates player one and two's sides accordingly.
Buttons 1-6 are used to mark the pockets. When one of these buttons are pressed, the system controller receives the number 1-6 and clears all pixels of light. Next, it illuminates the three pixels adjacent to the corresponding pocket (1-6) on each side. If a different 1-6 button is pressed, it will clear all pixels and repeat the process of illuminating three pixels adjacent on both sides. If the same 1-6 button is pressed, the system controller will clear all pixels and show the score, lighting player one and two's game and set sections according to the score stored by the system controller.
The +/−10+/−1 buttons may be used in setting 9-ball. These buttons determine how many points are needed for player one and two to win. The blue controls player one and red player two. There is a max of 75 point and minimum of 1 for each. The numbers for Player 1 and Player 2 are sent to the system controller and stored as the points for each player to win respectively. The system controller clears all pixels and begins the 9-ball scoring mode. If the number of points for either of the players to win is less than 10, the system controller will illuminate the pixels in that number section green for that player. See picture for sections. Else, it will clear all pixels and wait for scoring input.
When the player 1 win button is pressed, the controller or user device may send a signal to the system controller that player one won. The system controller will illuminate the next section (1-10) on player one's side while keeping the previous sections lit. Example, if player one has won six points, sections one through six will light. The color may be blue.
If section ten is lit and the button is pressed, the system controller may clear all of the pixels on player one's side (sections 1-10) and illuminate the next section (A-G) in alphabetical order. Each of these sections represents ten points. For example, if player one has 43 points, the system controller will illuminate sections A, B, C, D and 1, 2, 3. The color for sections A-G is orange (see
The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples may include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using combinations or permutations of those elements shown or described.
Method examples described herein may be machine or computer-implemented at least in part. Some examples may include a computer-readable medium or machine-readable medium encoded with instructions operable to configure an electronic device to perform methods as described in the above examples. An implementation of such methods may include code, such as microcode, assembly language code, a higher-level language code, or the like. Such code may include computer readable instructions for performing various methods. The code may form portions of computer program products. Further, in an example, the code may be tangibly stored on one or more volatile, non-transitory, or non-volatile tangible computer-readable media, such as during execution or at other times. Examples of these tangible computer-readable media may include, but are not limited to, hard disks, removable magnetic disks or cassettes, removable optical disks (e.g., compact disks and digital video disks), memory cards or sticks, random access memories (RAMs), read only memories (ROMs), and the like.
The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments may be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
This application is a U.S. National Stage Filing under 35 U.S.C. '371 from International Application No. PCT/US2023/061847, filed on Feb. 2, 2023, and published as WO2023/154654 on Aug. 17, 2023, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/267,765 filed on Feb. 9, 2022, the benefit of priority of each of which is hereby claimed herein, and which applications and publication are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US2023/061847 | 2/2/2023 | WO |
| Publishing Document | Publishing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| WO2023/154654 | 8/17/2023 | WO | A |
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| WO-2023154654 | Aug 2023 | WO |
| WO-2023154654 | Sep 2023 | WO |
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| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20250129931 A1 | Apr 2025 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63267765 | Feb 2022 | US |
