U.S. patent application number 11/880041 was filed with the patent office on 2009-01-22 for graphical training decal for video game controller.
Invention is credited to Michael Kidakarn.
Application Number | 20090023501 11/880041 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40265292 |
Filed Date | 2009-01-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090023501 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kidakarn; Michael |
January 22, 2009 |
Graphical training decal for video game controller
Abstract
A decal applied to a conventional game controller which makes
interaction with the game easier to a player by providing the
benefit of labeling single or multiple button functions on the
decal that corresponds to functions of the interactive game. The
decal is labeled with words, names, symbols, or images relating to
the game or game functions. This benefits the player with easier
use and faster learning of the control functions for the
interactive game.
Inventors: |
Kidakarn; Michael; (City of
Industry, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DAVID AND RAYMOND PATENT FIRM
108 N. YNEZ AVE., SUITE 128
MONTEREY PARK
CA
91754
US
|
Family ID: |
40265292 |
Appl. No.: |
11/880041 |
Filed: |
July 18, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/47 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63F 13/02 20130101;
A63F 13/98 20140902 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/47 |
International
Class: |
A63F 11/00 20060101
A63F011/00 |
Claims
1. A controller mask for attaching to a game controller having a
surface and one or more functional controls provided thereon,
comprising: a body having a top surface and a bottom surface
adapted for overlapping on said surface of said game controller;
and a learning arrangement comprising a graphic illustration
provided on said top surface of said body for direct association of
console game software and operational functions.
2. The controller mask, as recited in claim 1, wherein said graphic
illustration contains distinct identification marks related to a
video game.
3. The controller mask, as recited in claim 1, wherein said graphic
illustration contains the operation instruction of a video game
with respect to said functional control of said game
controller.
4. The controller mask, as recited in claim 2, wherein said graphic
illustration contains the operation instruction of a video game
with respect to said functional control of said game
controller.
5. The controller mask, as recited in claim 1, wherein said body
further contains a plurality of through openings spacedly formed
thereon for said functional controls extending through said
openings at a position above said top surface of said body.
6. The controller mask, as recited in claim 4, wherein said body
further contains a plurality of through openings spacedly formed
thereon for said functional controls extending through said
openings at a position above said top surface of said body.
7. The controller mask, as recited in claim 5, wherein said graphic
illustration is provided on said top surface of said body and is
aligned with said openings.
8. The controller mask, as recited in claim 6, wherein said graphic
illustration is provided on said top surface of said body and is
aligned with said openings.
9. The controller mask, as recited in claim 8, wherein said body is
shaped and sized corresponding to a dimension of said surface of
said game controller.
10. The controller mask, as recited in claim 9, wherein an adhesive
is provided on said bottom surface of said body for attaching on
said surface on said game controller.
11. The controller mask, as recited in claim 10, wherein said
adhesive is a clear acrylic removable adhesive having a high shear
and high removable adhesion.
12. The controller mask, as recited in claim 9, wherein the body is
made from PVC plastic stock with a matte finish.
13. The controller mask, as recited in claim 9, wherein said bottom
surface of said body contains a cling film adapted for removably
clinging on said surface of said game controller by means of
tensile force.
14. The controller mask, as recited in claim 9, wherein said body
comprises a controller casing adapted for detachably mounting to
said game controller, wherein said controller casing comprises a
platform defining said top surface on a top side of said platform
and said bottom surface on a bottom side of said platform, and a
plurality of engaging clips integrally and spacedly extended from a
peripheral edge of said platform for detachably engaging with said
game controller at a position that said platform is overlapped on
said surface of said game controller.
15. The controller mask, as recited in claim 11, wherein said
graphic illustration is printed on said top surface of said
body.
16. The controller mask, as recited in claim 13, wherein said
graphic illustration is printed on said top surface of said
body.
17. The controller mask, as recited in claim 14, wherein said
graphic illustration is printed on said top surface of said
body.
18. The controller mask, as recited in claim 15, further comprises
a UV gloss coat coating on said top surface of said body.
19. The controller mask, as recited in claim 16, further comprises
a UV gloss coat coating on said top surface of said body.
20. The controller mask, as recited in claim 17, further comprises
a UV gloss coat coating on said top surface of said body.
Description
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to video game controllers for
home video game console accessories and in particular to video game
controller and controller pad covering devices. More specifically,
the present invention relates to functional and decorative
graphical training decal for video game controller (hereinafter
"controller masks") having variable graphic designs, a uniquely
functional geometry, and being reusable, and removably attachable
to the face on a video game controller or controller pad.
DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ARTS
[0002] Home console gaming is a multi-billion dollar industry. The
revolution in the home console gaming market and electronics in the
1980's has led to mass production of home video game consoles and
home game controller pads. These related devices continue to be
marketed and distributed together in the same retail package. The
home game console and controller pads are primarily dedicated to
playing home console format games on a TV. The standardized input
device for home console gaming continues to be the controller
pad.
[0003] While the manufacturer printed symbols on the controller pad
buttons appear random to anyone who has not been trained in
operating a controller pad. The problem of locating the correct
buttons is a primary source of reduced enjoyment, frustration,
delay, and disillusionment with the use of video games.
Furthermore, when teaching new users how to operate a controller
pad, it is advantageous to be able to reference the printed button
functions in proximity to the associated shapes and alphanumeric
symbols on the controller pad button.
[0004] Home console controller pads are, have become, and will
continue to be increasingly sophisticated over time. At the same
time, home console video games have become increasingly
sophisticated. It is now standard that home console controller pads
have 2-14 buttons and joysticks in which the user operates to
command the video game images on screen. Additionally, it is now
standard that the number of functional commands that console video
games have the potential to execute is in excess of 20 commands, an
amount greater than the number of individual buttons available. The
limited number of individual controller pad buttons cannot cover
the full set of in-game commands, thus the combination of buttons
can be pressed to execute the excessive game commands. The problem
is that this requires memorization of the excessive button
functions, complicated motion, skillful timing, and learning how to
operate. The present controller pad markings are limited to the
alphanumeric symbols and shapes, limiting the potential learning
associations to the basic set of button functions, but not the
excessive set of button functions. It would be advantageous to have
this list of excessive buttons functions in physical proximity to
the actual operational buttons.
[0005] Printed instruction manual books are well known. They are
distributed with home game programs. These instructional books are
enclosed in the original game disc package and designed to provide
associations between keys and functions other than the indicators
marked on the controller. Although the instruction manual lists
button association with button functions, it is presented as a
chart, printed of over multiple pages in a book format.
[0006] One disadvantage of information listed in a book format is
that it requires memorization of the button functions. Another
disadvantage of these books is that they cannot provide close
visual indications of the function associated with all buttons.
Another disadvantage of these books is that even if they are close
to the buttons, it is necessary to make a separate visual contact
with the instruction manual and with the controller pad itself.
Another disadvantage of these books is that they are large and
cumbersome, with information listed across multiple pages. Another
disadvantage is that they are unstable, as paper books with staple
bindings tend to close.
[0007] An additional disadvantage is related to the fact that these
instruction manual booklets come with the original packaging.
Generally, product packaging is not considered valuable and is
discarded. Also after a certain amount of time, product instruction
books may be discarded or misplaced. It would be advantageous to
have button associations referenced from the face of the controller
pad, to provide the learning associations and increase enjoyment
with the game software.
[0008] Another disadvantage of the instruction manual is that it is
not available when playing games on public demonstration units,
where learning commands in a short period of time is crucial to the
enjoyment of the game. It would be advantageous to have the button
function information, readily available on the body of the
controller pad, for ease of use during actual game play.
[0009] Most console game players play several different games. It
is well known that multiple game programs have unique associated
button command sets. Different game programs and buttons command
sets are not related to each other. The game programs are so
diverse and varied that commonality between buttons and functions
are rare. Trying to remember the set of button functions and
associated game program becomes impossible. An additional advantage
is to provide decorative or identification markings to match and
identify the game program and the related functional
information.
[0010] There are home console game programs that stimulate
learning. The problem of finding the correct game and game function
is understandably worse for children who have just learned to
operate home console video games, making the search for button and
action associations beyond the patience and attention span of most
children. The controller pad is a dull, confusing, utilitarian
piece of equipment. This obstacle prohibits children enjoyment of
the game software. When teaching children to operate a home console
video game, it would be advantageous to provide varied
identification markings and enjoyable images.
[0011] Along with increased public use of console controllers, new
issues of sanitation and microbial contamination have arisen. This
is particularly a problem with controller pads in fast food
restaurants and shopping malls. Most controller pads are not
readily washable, and the collection and growth of bacteria on
their surfaces is unabated. Contact with the fingertips of multiple
users results in cross-contamination at a site of the body most
likely to come into contact with food, and with other susceptible
locations of the body.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 6,331,083 B1 issued to Harris, discloses key
covers for individual keys of a computer keyboard, with each key
cover having a colored background and a fluorescent letter of a
contrasting color. The key covers each consist of a flat
rectangular piece of plastic material of the same size as the key
to be covered, and of an adhesive bottom surface that allows for
attachment and removal.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 5,183,346 issued to Tesar, discloses a keycap
overlay snap-on system for converting the graphic symbols on a
computer data entry keyboard to a different set of graphic symbols,
such as scientific symbols or foreign language characters. The
invention consists of a plurality of keycaps, each keycap
consisting of a top rectangular surface that corresponds in size
and shape to the upper exterior surface of the data entry key over
which it is to be positioned.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. Des. 331,575 issued to Pike, discloses and
claims the ornamental design for a computer keyboard decal that is
substantially wider than it is tall, wrapping over the top and down
the sides of keys.
[0015] U.S. Pat. Application No. 20030161672 issued to Roberson
discloses key decals for individual keys of a computer keyboard,
with each key cover having an illustration. The key covers each
consist of a flat rectangular piece of material of the same size as
the key to be covered, but with a tab that protrudes over the edge
of the key. The key decal has an adhesive bottom surface that
allows for attachment and removal.
[0016] These devices have numerous disadvantages, including
obtrusive to operate, accidental removal, and impractically
covering the standard markings of the device.
[0017] One disadvantage of the other related device relates to the
materials and adhesives use to produce them, the process of regular
removal is difficult, leaving a tear in the material and making
reuse impossible.
[0018] An additional result of this disadvantage is that adhesive
and paper residue is often left behind on the surface, creating a
sticky mess. Another disadvantage of these designs is that even if
paper decal is removed successfully, the decal becomes distorted
and curled, making reuse impractical. This problem is exasperated
by being applied to the convex face surfaces.
[0019] Another disadvantage of these designs is that since they
cannot be reused, it is necessary to keep additional stickers in
stock, at additional cost, in order to use them again.
[0020] The related device discloses decal placement on the
depressible buttons that the user must operate regularly. This
causes regular use to degrade the shear strength of the adhesive
and shortening the life of the device. In addition, the regular use
will cause the degradation of the printed symbol, making continued
use non-functional.
[0021] Another disadvantage of these devices is that since they are
numerous to fit the multiple keys of a keyboard, they are difficult
and time consuming to align and install, due to the large quantity
needed to be applied.
[0022] Other devices have numerous disadvantages, including
impractically covering less than the entire body surface of the
controller pad to achieve a uniform structure and functional
usability.
[0023] Another disadvantage of some of these devices is that if
they are oversized and hang over the surface and making accidental
removable and frequent use frustrating. A typical result of this
disadvantage is that the user will accidentally scratch them off
during operation of regular video game play, destroying the sticker
such that it cannot be reused.
[0024] While these devices may fulfill their respective, particular
objectives and requirements, the aforementioned patents disclose
utilities related to a keyboard for a computer and do not disclose
utilities related to a controller pad for home video game console,
having the advantageous functional and decorative use of the
present invention.
[0025] Alas these related devices list improvements for the
depressible keys on a computer keyboard, whereas the present
invention discloses improvements on the body of a video game
controller or controller pad.
[0026] Thus, it is seen that there is a need for an improved system
for optionally and variably identifying button actions in the
separate category of video game controller pad for home video games
consoles.
SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0027] A major object of the present invention is to provide an
indicator means for direct association of console game software,
basic and advanced button functions, and the body of a controller
pad. An advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that
it provides a disposable protective means of preventing
transmission of contagious diseases through fingertip contact with
contaminated buttons and surfaces of a controller pad. Another
advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that it is
easily installed and secure during usage. Another advantage of an
embodiment of the present invention is that it provides a means for
modifying a controller pad to provide immediate association with
actions performed when playing home console video games. Another
advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that it
provides an inexpensive means for modifying a controller pad to
provide an entertaining interface for children to learn to operate
home console video games. Another advantage of an embodiment of the
present invention is that the graphical illustration provides
identification markings to associate with the game program. Another
advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that the
graphical illustrations are enjoyable. Another advantage of an
embodiment of the present invention is that it is reusable. Another
advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that it is
inexpensive. Other advantages of the present invention will become
apparent from the following descriptions, taken in connection with
the accompanying drawings, wherein, by way of illustration and
example, an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed.
[0028] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a mask
set is made up of a plurality of die-cut controller masks located
on a stock. The controller masks are die-cut from the stock. In a
preferred embodiment, the stock is made from a thin lithographic
PVC plastic stock having a matte finish, and a basis weight of
approximately 70 pounds. In another preferred embodiment, the face
stock has a caliper thickness of approximately 0.035 inches.
[0029] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a mask
set for attaching to a face on a video game controller or
controller pad, comprising: a stock having a top surface and a
bottom surface; a plurality of die-cut controller masks located on
the stock; each controller mask having a body that is substantially
similar to the dimensions of the respective face for attaching to
the video game controller; at least one controller mask having a
graphic illustration on the top surface; a pressure sensitive
adhesive adhered to the bottom surface; and, a coated liner adhered
to the pressure sensitive adhesive.
[0030] In another preferred embodiment the controller mask has a
graphical illustration on its top surface. The mask set is
comprised of three controller masks. Preferably, the body
substantially matches the dimensions of a face for a standard
controller pad for a home game console. Also in the preferred
embodiment, graphic illustrations of button commands are printed in
close proximity to the die-cut holes for the related buttons. The
left and right controller masks have a die-cut shape joining a
small and large circular shape. A cross section is die-cut from the
center of the larger circle shape. The middle controller mask is
rectangular and the top portion of the die-cut shape folds over the
top of the controller body. A circular hole is positioned for a
cord. In this embodiment, the controller masks include graphic
illustrations representing distinct character actions related to an
interactive video game. In another preferred embodiment, game
software title, characters, and other markings are printed on the
face of the controller mask.
[0031] In another preferred embodiment the controller mask has a
graphical illustration on its top surface. The mask set is a single
controller mask. Preferably, the body substantially matches the
dimensions of a face for a standard controller pad for a home game
console. Also in the preferred embodiment, graphic illustrations of
button commands are printed in close proximity to the die-cut holes
for the related buttons. In this embodiment, the mask set is a
single controller mask. The top and bottom sides of the die-cut are
substantially curved inwards. The left and right sides of the
die-cut shape are substantially curved outwards. The center of the
die-cut shape has a circular shaped hole. In this embodiment, the
controller mask includes graphic illustrations representing
distinct character actions related to an interactive video game. In
another preferred embodiment, game software title, characters, and
other markings are printed on the face of the controller mask.
[0032] In another preferred embodiment the controller mask has a
graphical illustration on its top surface. The mask set is
comprised of three controller masks. Preferably, the body
substantially matches the dimensions of a face for a standard
controller pad, relating to a home game console. Also in the
preferred embodiment, graphic illustrations of button commands are
printed in close proximity to the die-cut holes for the related
buttons. In this embodiment, the right controller mask has a single
circular hole in the center with curved button holes surrounding.
The center controller mask is an arc shape where the top and bottom
edges of the die-cut have a convex curve. In this embodiment, the
controller masks include graphic illustrations representing
distinct character actions related to an interactive video game. In
another preferred embodiment, game software title, characters, and
other markings are printed on the face of the controller mask.
[0033] In the preferred embodiment, a pressure sensitive adhesive
is adhered to the bottom surface of the stock (and thus, of
controller masks). The pressure sensitive adhesive adheres the
stock to the coated side of a silicone-coated liner. In the
preferred embodiment, the pressure sensitive adhesive is a clear
acrylic, removable adhesive, having a high shear and high removable
adhesion. Also in the preferred embodiment the liner is made from
paper stock that has a basis weight between approximately 50 and
110 pounds.
[0034] In another embodiment, the controller masks of a set are
graphically attractive masks for use in training children to
operate the controller pad. In another embodiment, the controller
mask sets include colorful graphic illustrations to help to
maintain the attention span of the child, while learning how to
operate home video game console.
[0035] These and other objectives, features, and advantages of the
present invention will become apparent from the following detailed
description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0036] FIG. 1 is a top view of a controller mask according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the controller mask for
attaching on a surface of the controller according to the above
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the controller mask
according to the above preferred embodiment of the present
invention, illustrating the controller mask on the surface of the
controller for guiding the operation of the controller in
responsive to the game console.
[0039] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the controller mask
according to the above preferred embodiment of the present
invention, illustrating the controller mask being protected by a
face stock.
[0040] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the controller mask
according to the above preferred embodiment of the present
invention, illustrating the controller mask being partially peeled
off from the face stock.
[0041] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the controller mask
according to the above preferred embodiment of the present
invention, illustrating the controller mask being removed from the
face stock.
[0042] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the controller mask
according to the above preferred embodiment of the present
invention, illustrating controller mask attached on the game
controller.
[0043] FIG. 8 is a side view of the controller mask according to
the above preferred embodiment of the present invention,
illustrating the material layers of the controller mask.
[0044] FIG. 9 is a top view of the controller mask according to the
above preferred embodiment of the present invention, disclosing the
die-cut shape for the controller mask with respect to the surface
of the game controller.
[0045] FIG. 10 illustrates a first alternative mode of the
controller mask according to the above preferred embodiment of the
present invention, disclosing the first alternative die-cut shape
for the controller mask with respect to the surface of the game
controller.
[0046] FIG. 11 illustrates a second alternative mode of the
controller mask according to the above preferred embodiment of the
present invention, disclosing the second alternative die-cut shape
for the controller mask with respect to the surface of the game
controller.
[0047] FIG. 12 illustrates a third alternative mode of the
controller mask according to the above preferred embodiment of the
present invention, disclosing the third alternative die-cut shape
for the controller mask with respect to the surface of the game
controller.
[0048] FIG. 13 illustrates a fourth alternative mode of the
controller mask according to the above preferred embodiment of the
present invention, illustrating the controller mask being clipped
on the game controller.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0049] The following description is presented to enable any person
skilled in the art to make and use the invention, and is provided
in the context of a particular application and its requirements.
Various modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be readily
apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles
defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be
limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest
scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed
herein.
[0050] FIG. 1 is a top view of a controller mask according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the
controller mask is adapted for attaching to a game controller 10
which has a surface 11 and one or more functional controls 12
provided thereon, as shown in FIG. 2. Accordingly, the controller
mask comprises a body 20 and a learning arrangement 30. The body 20
has a top surface 21 and a bottom surface 22 adapted for
overlapping on the surface 11 of the game controller 10.
Preferably, the body 20 is attached on the top surface of the game
controller 10 wherein the functional controls 12 are provided
thereon. The learning arrangement 30 comprises a graphic
illustration 31 provided on the top surface 21 of the body 20 for
direct association of console game software and operational
functions. The body 20 is shaped and sized corresponding to a
dimension of the surface 11 of the game controller 10. Accordingly,
the graphic illustration 31 contains distinct identification marks
related to a video game. The graphic illustration 31 on the body 20
represents player controls over the game, such as character action
and character movements. The controller mask further comprises a UV
gloss coat 50 coating on said top surface 21 of the body 20 to
protect the graphic illustration 31 and to enhance the aesthetic
appearance of the controller mask. This embodiment permits
immediate association of the proper button with a desired control,
allowing a player to learn new game controls quickly, and play more
successfully. This is achieved without the obstacle of
unidentifiable controls within the controller pad.
[0051] As shown in FIG. 1, the body 20 is applied to the
conventional game controller 10 wherein the graphic illustration 31
makes interaction with the game easier to a player by providing the
benefit of labeling single or multiple button functions on the
decal that corresponds to functions of the interactive game via the
graphic illustration. Accordingly, the graphic illustration 31
forms a label with words, names, symbols, or images relating to the
game or game functions. This benefits the player with easier use
and faster learning of the control functions for the interactive
game.
[0052] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the controller mask prior to
its placement on the game controller 10. Accordingly, the top
surface 21 of the body 20 is formed with the graphic illustration
31. The bottom surface 22 of the body 20 is attached to the surface
11 of the game controller 10. According to the preferred
embodiment, an adhesive is provided on the bottom surface 22 of the
body 20 for attaching on the surface 11 on the game controller. In
particularly, the adhesive is a clear acrylic removable adhesive
having a high shear and high removable adhesion. Alternatively, the
bottom surface 22 of the body 20 contains a cling film adapted for
removably clinging on the surface 11 of the game controller 10 by
means of tensile force. The functional controls 12 of the game
controller 10 are embodied as buttons 121 and/or joysticks 122. The
graphic illustration 31 contains the operation instruction of the
video game with respect to said functional control 12 of the game
controller 10.
[0053] The body 20 further contains a plurality of through openings
23 spacedly formed thereon for the functional controls 12 extending
through the openings 23 at a position above the top surface 21 of
the body 20. The graphic illustration 31 is provided on the top
surface 21 of the body 20 and is aligned with the openings 23. The
preferred positioning allows the buttons 121 and joysticks 122 of
the game controller 10 to be placed inside the die cut openings 23
of the controller mask.
[0054] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a controller mask applied to
the game controller 10. The graphic illustration 31 on individual
controller mask represents player controls over the game, such as
character action and character movements. This permits immediate
association of the proper button 121 and joysticks 122 with a
desired control, allowing a player to learn new game controls
quickly, and play more successfully. The graphic illustration 31
contains an instruction guide 311, such as "Jump", "Kick", Punch"
and "Special" for guiding the operation of the button 121, and
"Up", "Down", Left", and "Right" for guiding the operation of the
joystick 122, wherein the instruction guide is printed or coated on
the top surface 21 of the body 20. The instruction guide 311 is
positioned around the peripheral edge portion of the corresponding
openings 23 of the body 20. In other words, the graphic
illustrations 31 are printed in close proximity to the die-cut
openings 23 for the related buttons 121 and joysticks 122.
[0055] As shown in FIG. 4, the present invention further comprises
a face stock 40 removably attaching to the bottom surface 22 of the
body 20. In addition, the graphical illustration 31 further
identifies a distinct game by use of game title and game character.
In the embodiment, the inks used for printing graphic illustrations
31 on the body 20 of the controller masks are luminous pigment of
printing inks. In the preferred embodiment, the luminous pigments
are phosphorescent zinc sulphide (ZnS: Cu), with body color light
yellow and emission color yellow green. Preferably the
Phosphorescent Luminous Pigments are free from cadium, lead,
mercury, arsenic, chromium, antimony, and selenium, and are not
harmful substances.
[0056] As shown in FIG. 5, the body 20 is die-cut into the
predetermined shape according to the surface 11 of the game
controller 10. Accordingly, the body 20 is removably adhered on the
face stock 40 such that the body 20 is adapted to peel off from the
face stock 40 to attach on the surface 11 of the game controller
10. In other words, the face stock 40 is adapted to protect the
body 20 before attaching onto the surface 11 of the game controller
10 and to keep the adhesive ability of the bottom surface 22 of the
body 20. In this view, it is seen that a die-cut forms the
separation between the body 20 and face stock 40. Beneath the body
20, and within the outline of die-cut, a bottom surface 22 is
visible. The side of bottom surface 22 has a pressure adhesive
coating. In the preferred embodiment, pressure adhesive coating
enables the body 20 be removed and applied in multiple yet separate
occurrences to the face of the game controller 10. Experimentation
has shown that these properties, combined with disclosed properties
or other elements of the invention, contribute to providing many of
the advantages of the present invention.
[0057] Accordingly, the controller mask is made up of a plurality
of die-cut bodies 20 located on the face stock 40. Each of the
bodies 20 has the top surface 21 and the bottom surface 22. As the
bodies 20 are die-cut from face stock 40, the material properties
of the bodies 20 are the same as those of face stock 40. In a
preferred embodiment, the face stock 40 is made from a thin PVC
plastic stock that has a basis weight between 50 and 110 pounds. In
a preferred embodiment, the face stock 40 is made from a thin PVC
plastic stock having a basis weight of 80 pounds. Also in the
preferred embodiment, the face stock 40 is made from lithographic
PVC plastic stock having a matte finish, and a caliper thickness of
between 0.03 and 0.04 inches. Experimentation has shown that these
material properties, combined with the disclosed properties of
other elements of the invention, contribute to providing many of
the advantages of the present invention.
[0058] FIG. 6 illustrates removal of the body 20 from the face
stock 40. In this view an advantageous method can be seen where
individual application of the body 20 is used to promote training
by listing a subset of the printed button functions. Thus, the body
20 contains three different portions such that the user is able to
easily attach each portion of the body 20 on the surface 11 of the
game controller 10.
[0059] FIG. 7 illustrates the body 20 being fittingly attached on
the surface 11 of the game controller 10, disclosing the printed
button functions of the graphic illustration 31 for use with
interactive gaming software. A character illustration 310 can be
further provided on the top surface 21 of the body 20 to enhance
the personalization and aesthetic appearance of the game controller
10. Still referring to FIG. 7, in the preferred embodiment, no part
of the body 20 protrudes over the surface 11 of the game controller
10. Experimentation has shown that these geometric and dimensional
properties, combined with the disclosed properties or other
elements of the invention, contribute to providing many of the
advantages of the present invention. In particular, these features
allow buttons 121 and joysticks 122 to be operated without
accidental removal of the body 20. The applied controller mask of
the present invention can be operated while protecting the surface
11 of the game controller 10 from scratches.
[0060] FIG. 8 is the side view the body 20, illustrating the
material layers. A pressure sensitive adhesive 201 is adhered to
the bottom surface 22 of the body 20, and will adheres the bottom
surface 22 with the surface 11 of the game controller 10. In this
view, it shows that the pressure sensitive adhesive 24 adheres to
the convex face of the surface 11 of the game controller 10. The
combined preferred material and dimensional properties of
controller mask permit the body 20 to flex in a manner
complementary to the shape of the surface 11 of the game controller
10.
[0061] FIG. 9 is a top view technical drawing of a preferred
embodiment of the present invention, disclosing the die-cut shape
for the body 20 for attaching to the surface 11 of the game
controller 10. The body 20 contains three portions 201, 202, 203.
Preferably, the body 20 substantially matches the dimensions of the
surface 11 of the game controller 10 for a home game console. The
left and right portions 201, 202 of the body 20 have a die-cut
shape joining a small and large circular shape. The cross shaped
die-cut opening 23 cut from the center of the larger circle shape
for the buttons 121 fitting thereto. The middle portion 203 of the
body 20 is rectangular and the top portion of the die-cut shape
folds over the top of the game controller 10. The circular opening
230 having an opening slit is formed for a cord passing
therethrough.
[0062] FIG. 10 is a top view of an alternative shape of the body
20, disclosing the die-cut shape for the body 20 for attaching to
the surface 11 of the game controller 10 for a home video game
console. The body 20 comprises one mask with the openings 23. The
top and bottom edges of the die-cut are substantially curved
inwards. The left and right edges of the die-cut shape are
substantially curved outwards. The center of the die-cut shape has
a circular shaped hole.
[0063] FIG. 11 is a top view of another alternative shape of the
body 20, disclosing the die-cut shape for the body 20 for attaching
to the surface 11 of the game controller 10 for a home video game
console. The body 20 comprises three masks with the openings 23. In
this embodiment, the right controller mask has a single circular
hole in the center with curved button holes surrounding. The center
controller mask is an arc shape where the top and bottom edges of
the die-cut have a convex curve.
[0064] FIG. 12 illustrates another shape of the body 20, disclosing
the die-cut shape for the body 20 for attaching to the surface 11
of another type of the game controller 10. It is worth to mention
that FIGS. 9 to 11 illustrate different designs of the body 20
being made for the same configuration of the game controller 10
while FIG. 12 illustrates the body 20 being made for different
configurations of the game controller 10.
[0065] FIG. 13 illustrates a first alternative mode of the
controller mask of the preferred embodiment. The controller mask
comprises the body 20' and the graphic illustrations 31'. The body
comprises a controller casing 26' adapted for detachably mounting
to the game controller 10, wherein the controller casing 26'
comprises a platform 261' defining said top surface 21' on a top
side of the platform 261' to provide the graphic illustrations 31'
thereon and the bottom surface 22' on a bottom side of the platform
261', and a plurality of engaging clips 262' integrally and
spacedly extended from a peripheral edge of the platform 261' for
detachably engaging with the game controller 10 at a position that
the platform 261' is overlapped on the surface 11 of the game
controller 10. In other words, the body 20' is clipped on the game
controller 10' and is adapted to be interchanged with another
controller casing 26' to represent player controls over the game,
such as character action and character movements. Likewise, the
body 20' further contains a plurality of through openings 23'
spacedly formed thereon for buttons 121 and the joystick 122 of the
functional controls 12 extending through the openings 23' at a
position above the top surface 21' of the platform 261'. The
graphic illustration 31' is provided on the top surface 21' of the
platform 261' and is aligned with the openings 23'.
[0066] One skilled in the art will understand that the embodiment
of the present invention as shown in the drawings and described
above is exemplary only and not intended to be limiting.
[0067] It will thus be seen that the objects of the present
invention have been fully and effectively accomplished. It
embodiments have been shown and described for the purposes of
illustrating the functional and structural principles of the
present invention and is subject to change without departure from
such principles. Therefore, this invention includes all
modifications encompassed within the spirit and scope of the
following claims.
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