U.S. patent application number 12/074149 was filed with the patent office on 2009-09-03 for multi-axis gaming chair assembly.
Invention is credited to Nigel Henry, Homar Hernandez.
Application Number | 20090218860 12/074149 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41012624 |
Filed Date | 2009-09-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090218860 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hernandez; Homar ; et
al. |
September 3, 2009 |
Multi-axis gaming chair assembly
Abstract
An assembly structured to movably support a video game or video
simulation participant comprising a chair movably connected to and
supported by a frame. A driver assembly includes a plurality of
driver members collectively structured to concurrently or
independently move the chair about any one or all of a plurality of
substantially transversely oriented axes. A control assembly
includes a manually operable control member operatively connected
to the driver assembly to accomplish substantially corresponding
movement of the chair with that of the control member. A display
assembly including a monitor disposed to be viewable from the chair
and a processing assembly is operatively associated with the
monitor to determine the video content displayed thereon. The
control assembly and the driver assembly are operatively
interconnected to determine movement of the chair independently of
the content of the video.
Inventors: |
Hernandez; Homar; (Boca
Raton, FL) ; Henry; Nigel; (Pembroke Pines,
FL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MALLOY & MALLOY, P.A.;Historic Coral Way
2800 S.W. Third Avenue
Miami
FL
33129
US
|
Family ID: |
41012624 |
Appl. No.: |
12/074149 |
Filed: |
February 29, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
297/217.3 ;
297/311 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 15/004
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
297/217.3 ;
297/311 |
International
Class: |
A47C 31/00 20060101
A47C031/00 |
Claims
1. An assembly structured to movably support a video game
participant, said assembly comprising: a support frame including a
base, a chair movably connected to said support frame and
structured to support the participant thereon, a driver assembly
movably interconnected between said support frame and said chair
and structured to concurrently move said chair about a plurality of
transversely oriented axes, a control assembly operable by the
participant and structured to be at least partially determinative
of the movement of said chair, a display assembly including a
monitor, said monitor interconnected to said chair and movable
therewith relative to at least a portion of said support frame, a
processing assembly operatively associated with said display
assembly and structured to be at least partially determinative of
video content of said monitor, and said control assembly and said
driver assembly operatively interconnected and cooperatively
structured to determine movement of said chair independently of the
video content.
2. An assembly as recited in claim 1 wherein said driver assembly
comprises a fluid supply connected in fluid communication with a
plurality of driver members, each of at least two of said plurality
of driver members disposed and structured to move said chair about
a different one of said plurality of transversely oriented
axes.
3. An assembly as recited in claim 2 wherein said plurality of
driver members further comprises at least a third driver member
disposed and structured to move said chair about a third of said
plurality of transversely oriented axes.
4. An assembly as recited in claim 3 wherein said third driver
member is interconnected between said base and a movable portion of
said support frame in driving relation to said chair.
5. An assembly as recited in claim 3 wherein said two driver
members are interconnected between said support frame and said
chair in driving relation to said chair.
6. An assembly as recited in claim 1 further comprising a footrest
adjustably connected to said chair and extending outwardly
therefrom a variable distance in at least partially aligned
relation to said monitor.
7. An assembly as recited in claim 1 further comprising a monitor
mount interconnected to said chair and having an elongated
configuration extending outwardly from a frontal portion of the
chair, said monitor mount including a platform disposed and
structured to support said monitor thereon in facing relation to
said chair.
8. An assembly as recited in claim 7 further comprising a footrest
assembly adjustably connected to said chair and extending outwardly
therefrom in a corresponding direction as said monitor mount and
substantially beneath said monitor.
9. An assembly as recited in claim 1 further comprising a control
mount adjustably interconnected to said chair and disposed a
variably spaced distance from a frontal portion thereof.
10. An assembly as recited in claim 1 wherein said control assembly
comprises a manually positionable control member cooperatively
structured with said driver assembly to control movement of said
chair.
11. An assembly as recited in claim 10 wherein said control member
is operatively interconnected to said driver assembly and is
structured to accomplish corresponding movement between said chair
and said control member by substantially corresponding manual
movement of said control member.
12. An assembly as recited in claim 11 wherein said chair is
independently and concurrently movable about each of said plurality
of transversely oriented axes.
13. An assembly as recited in claim 1 further comprising a user
interface operatively connected to said processor assembly, said
user interface adjustably disposable in accessible relation to said
chair and in a vicinity of a manually operable control member
associated with said control assembly.
14. An assembly as recited in claim 1 further comprising a monitor
mount interconnected to said chair and movable therewith, said
monitor mount comprising an elongated configuration extending above
and in overlying relation to said chair and into supporting,
suspending relation to said monitor.
15. An assembly structured to movably support a video gaming
participant, said assembly comprising: a support frame including a
base and a stanchion assembly connected to said base, a chair
movably interconnected in supported relation to said stanchion
assembly, said chair structured to movably support the participant
on said support frame, a driver assembly including a plurality of
driver members collectively structured to concurrently and
independently move said chair about each of a plurality of
transversely oriented axes, a control assembly including a manually
operable control member cooperatively structured with said
plurality of driver members to determine corresponding movement of
said chair and said control member about said plurality of
transversely oriented axes, a display assembly including a monitor
disposed in observable relation to the participant when on said
chair, a processing assembly operatively associated with said
display assembly and structured to be at least partially
determinative of video content on said monitor, and said control
assembly and said driver assembly operatively interconnected and
cooperatively structured to determine movement of said chair
independently of the video content.
16. An assembly as recited in claim 15 wherein said plurality of
said driver members comprise at least a first driver member and a
second driver member each disposed and structured to move said
chair about a different one of said plurality of transversely
oriented axes.
17. An assembly as recited in claim 16 wherein said plurality of
driver members comprise a third driver member disposed and
structured to move said chair about a third of said plurality of
transversely oriented axes.
18. An assembly as recited in claim 17 wherein said stanchion
assembly is rotationally connected to said base, said third driver
member interconnected between said base and said stanchion assembly
and in driving relation to said stanchion assembly.
19. An assembly as recited in claim 15 further comprising a monitor
mount interconnected to said chair and movable therewith, said
monitor mount comprising an elongated configuration extending above
and in overlying relation to said chair and into supporting,
suspending relation to said monitor.
20. An assembly as recited in claim 15 further comprising a monitor
mount including an elongated configuration connected to and
extending outwardly from said base in supporting relation to said
monitor, and said monitor mount disposed and structured to fixedly
position said monitor relative to said base.
21. An assembly as recited in claim 15 wherein said processing
assembly is structured to include communication capabilities with
at least one communication network.
22. An assembly as recited in claim 21 wherein said at least one
communication network includes the Internet.
23. An assembly structured to movably support a video gaming
participant, said assembly comprising: a support frame including a
base and a stanchion assembly connected to said base, a chair
movably interconnected in supported relation to said stanchion
assembly, said chair structured to movably support the participant
on said support frame, a driver assembly including a plurality of
driver members each disposed and structured to movably position
said chair about a different one of a plurality of substantially
transversely oriented axes, a control assembly including a manually
operable control structure operatively connected to said driver
assembly, a display assembly including a monitor disposed in spaced
relation to the participant when on said chair, a processing
assembly operatively associated with said display assembly and
structured to be partially determinative of video content of said
monitor, and said control assembly and said driver assembly
cooperatively structured to operatively interconnect said manually
operable control member and said plurality of driver members to
facilitate corresponding movement of said chair and said manually
operable control member, as said chair moves about said plurality
of transversely oriented axes.
24. An assembly as recited in claim 23 wherein said plurality of
said driver members include at least a first driver member and a
second driver member each comprising an air cylinder, each of said
first and second driver members disposed and structured to move
said chair about a different one of said plurality of transversely
oriented axes.
25. An assembly as recited in claim 24 wherein said plurality of
driver members comprises a third driver member comprising an air
cylinder disposed and structured to move said chair about a third
of said plurality of transversely oriented axes.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention relates to a support assembly in the form of
a chair movable by a participant based on his/her reaction to an
observed video game or video simulation. A driver assembly and
control assembly are cooperatively structured to accomplish
movement of the chair about any one or all of a plurality of
substantially transversely oriented axes in reaction to the
participant's manipulation of a portion of the control assembly. A
processor assembly includes Internet or other network communication
capabilities operatively connected to the display monitor for
determining the video content observed by the participant.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] With the major advancements in computer technology over the
past few years, the popularity of video games has increased
dramatically resulting in a multi-million dollar per year industry.
Many commercially available video game platforms are used primarily
on personal computers or game box in a home or other non-commercial
environment. However, the expansion of the video game market has
increased to the extent that public venues including competitions
are also enjoying increased popularity. Traditionally, depending
upon the environment in which a video game is played or
demonstrated, an individual stands or sits at a stationary computer
or gaming machine. Operation or participation in the content of the
video game involves observing a video display as well as operating
various control features. Such control features may include
joysticks, levers, pedals, etc. In addition, motion directed video
games involving the traveling of a vehicle also may include
appropriately corresponding control mechanisms, such as steering
wheels, steering yokes, etc. which are used to simulate the driving
or operation of the vehicle being displayed.
[0005] In order to enhance the experience of a video game player,
"gaming chairs" have been introduced which are structured to
attempt to simulate movements of the vehicle involved in the video
content being displayed. Similarly, movable seats or participant
supporting devices are also structured to provide movement, feel,
and other features which simulate the overall environment of the
video content being displayed.
[0006] However, disadvantage and problems associated with the
manufacture, operation and cost of known or conventional gaming
seats are well recognized in the video game industry. Typically,
the movement involved in such support assemblies is somewhat
limited and frequently is not sufficiently versatile to provide a
realistic simulation which corresponds to the content of the video
game being observed. Also, conventional gaming chairs and like
support assemblies may be structured to directly correspond to a
specific video game or category of games thereby lacking sufficient
versatility to be readily adapted to a variety of different
categories of video content. Other problems and disadvantages
associated with known gaming chairs involve the mechanical and
operative components which serve to accomplish the intended
simulated movement. Such components may be slow to respond to
manipulation of a joystick or other controlling structure by the
participant. Therefore, with such limited versatility of the type
set forth above, gaming chairs, seats and like individual support
assemblies do not adequately simulate movement of vehicles or other
video content associated with many, if not a majority of the video
games or like displayed video simulations.
[0007] Accordingly, there is a need in the video gaming industry
for a support assembly including a chair capable of being
concurrently moved throughout a plurality of predetermined axes in
direct and immediate response to corresponding movement of any one
of a plurality of different type of control members including the
aforementioned joystick, steering wheel, etc. Further, such an
improved and proposed support assembly should be structured to
provide a completely realistic "feel" to the participant involved
in the video game or like simulated video display in order to
increase the enjoyment of the participant. Moreover, such an
improved support assembly should be relatively light in weight,
efficiently constructed and operationally sound so as to be capable
of repeated use over a long operable life and be readily adaptable
to a variety of different video games or vide displays.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention is directed to an assembly in the form
of a chair and more commonly known as a "gaming chair" which is
used to movably support a participant when viewing a video game or
video simulation. As used herein the terms "video game" or "video
simulation" are to be interpreted in the broadest sense. As such
these terms are used herein to describe any type of video
presentation or content, wherein an individual views and is
expected to participate in the "action" of the displayed content by
manipulating a control member. The operation of the control member
thereby serves to move and/or position the chair in a manner which
corresponds to the video content.
[0009] By way of example only, the video content may comprise
travel of a vehicle, such as an airplane, automobile, boat, etc.
wherein the participant manually operates a control member so as to
coordinate movement of the support assembly or chair to the travel
of the vehicle or other object represented in the video content. As
such, the various operative components of the preferred embodiments
of the present invention accomplish movements and/or positioning of
the chair and a participant present thereon about any one or all of
a plurality of axes. Moreover, the movement or positioning of the
chair and supported participant about multiple axes will result in
a more "real life" experience thereby allowing the participant to
more closely realize or "feel" the action of the video content
being displayed.
[0010] As will be explained in greater detail hereinafter, one or
more preferred embodiments of the support assembly and/or gaming
chair of the present invention may also include a processor
assembly comprising an appropriate computer or processor facility.
The processor assembly has capability of communicating over the
internet and/or other communication network, wherein the processor
assembly is operatively interconnected to the display assembly,
including the aforementioned monitor so as to control or at least
determine the video content display thereon. Further, the processor
assembly has the capability, through interactive, operational
circuitry associated with both the processor assembly and the
display assembly, to operate a variety of different console game
systems which are well known and widely available on the commercial
market. Also, additional software can be maintained within the
processor facility or alternatively accessed over the Internet or
other predetermined communication network to support the operation
of the various embodiments of the present invention and/or the
performance and operational characteristics of the video content
being displayed. Further, at least one preferred embodiment of the
present invention incorporates a Windows-based control software
which requires only Ethernet and updates which are available
online.
[0011] Accordingly, at least one or more preferred embodiments of
the support assembly of the present invention include a chair being
movably supported on a support frame, wherein the support frame may
include a base disposed on a supporting surface as well as a
stanchion assembly serving to interconnect the base to the support
frame and therefore to the chair. The chair, in order to provide
control, comfort and overall operational efficiency to the
participant, further includes additional structural features such
as an adjustable foot assembly extending outwardly from the chair a
variably spaced distance. Also, the display assembly includes a
monitor as well as a monitor mount. In the various preferred
embodiments of the present invention, the monitor amount includes
an elongated configuration interconnected to the chair or to the
base. When the monitor mount is connected to the chair, the monitor
supported thereby is movable with the chair about a plurality of
preferably transversely oriented axes. Alternatively, the elongated
monitor mount may be secured to the base or other fixed portion of
the assembly such that the position of the monitor and the monitor
mount on which it is supported are disposed in a substantially
fixed position relative to the multi-axis travel or positioning of
the chair.
[0012] As at least generally set forth above, the control assembly
includes both the operational circuitry serving to interconnect it
to the processing assembly and/or a driver assembly as well as at
least one control member. In somewhat typical fashion, the control
member may assume a variety of structural characteristics such as
those represented by a joystick, steering wheel, etc. Moreover, the
control member is hand manipulated by the participant and is
adjustably disposed in easily accessible relation to the
participant when in the chair. The aforementioned control circuitry
is operational, in addition to the cooperative structuring between
the control assembly and the drive assembly, to determine the
movement of the chair independent of the video content. More
specifically, cooperative structuring and operative interconnection
between the control assembly and the driver assembly accomplishes
substantially corresponding movement of the chair to that of the
movement of the control member of the control assembly. By way of
example only, the participant may move the control member in a
forward direction which will automatically and substantially
concurrently move the chair in the corresponding forward direction.
Similarly, movement of the control member by the participant along
a somewhat complex path of travel will result in a chair being
substantially concurrently moved about the plurality of
transversely oriented axes so as to facilitate a substantially
corresponding movement of the chair to that of the control member,
as manipulated by the participant.
[0013] Further, it is recognized that the participant will attempt
manual manipulation or movement of the control member based on the
video content being viewed on the video display or the monitor.
However, the video content per se does not control or regulate
movement of the chair other than the participant's reaction to the
displayed video content and his/her responsive manipulation of the
control member. Further by way of example, if the video content
comprises an automobile, race car, etc. traveling along a path of
travel and encountering various turns, straight-a-ways, obstacles,
etc., the chair will move into various positions which corresponds
to the movement of the control member operated by the participant
while viewing the video content. However, if the participant did
not move the control member, the chair in turn will not move
regardless of the simulated travel of the vehicle in the video
content.
[0014] Movement of the chair about each of the plurality of
transversely oriented axes is accomplished by interaction of the
control member with a driver assembly comprising a plurality of
driver members. The driver members are preferably in the form of
air cylinders connected in fluid connection with a fluid or air
source by appropriate conduits. In addition, operative control
circuitry associated with the control assembly and/or control
member will serve to facilitate operation of the fluid
communication of the air issuing from the fluid source so as to
accurately operate each of the driver members in a manner which
will accomplish corresponding movement between the chair, about the
plurality of axes as determined by the manipulation of the control
member by the participant.
[0015] Additional structural and operative features of the support
assembly of the present invention will be explained in greater
detail hereinafter and include a speaker assembly mounted on or
otherwise disposed relative to the chair so as to provide clear
audio content to the participant. Also, adequate padding or
cushioning material may be connected to various portions of the
support frame and/or chair so as to facilitate comfort and safety
of the participant during operation of the chair. In association
therewith, an appropriate restraining assembly in the form of a lap
belt or other more sophisticated torso harness may be connected to
the chair to facilitate containment and comfort of the participant.
In addition, various siding panels or enclosure components may be
mounted on the support frame and/or chair structure so as to
adequately enclose the chair during the multi-axis movement as well
as provide an operationally realistic environment to the
participant when disposed on the chair.
[0016] These and other objects, features and advantages of the
present invention will become more clear when the drawings as well
as the detailed description are taken into consideration.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] For a fuller understanding of the nature of the present
invention, reference should be had to the following detailed
description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in
which:
[0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one preferred embodiment of
a participant supporting chair of the present invention and
operative components associated therewith.
[0019] FIG. 1A is a detailed perspective view in partial cutaway of
a display monitor and control member associated at least with the
embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0020] FIG. 1B is a perspective view in partial cutaway of a
different embodiment of a control member and a user interface both
associated at least with the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0021] FIG. 2 is a schematic representation in block diagram form
of interactive operative components of at least one preferred
embodiment of the present invention, such as represented in FIG.
1.
[0022] FIG. 3 is a schematic representation representing a
multi-axis display of movement about which the gaming chair
assembly of the present invention may be positioned.
[0023] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of yet another preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the opposite side the
preferred embodiment of FIG. 4.
[0025] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of yet another preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of yet another preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of yet another preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 7A is a front view of a portion of the embodiment of
FIG. 7.
[0029] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of yet another preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0030] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of yet another preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 9A is a detailed view of an operative component
associated with the display assembly and the display monitor
associated therewith.
[0032] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of yet another preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of yet another preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of yet another preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 13 is a perspective view in partial schematic of a
multi-device controller assembly associated with one or more of the
embodiments of FIGS. 1 through 12.
[0036] FIG. 14 is a perspective view in partial schematic
representing a modification of the multi-device controller assembly
of the embodiment of FIG. 13 and further incorporating an axis
selection assembly.
[0037] FIG. 15 is a perspective view in partial schematic
representing yet another modification of the multi-device
controller assembly of the embodiment of FIGS. 13 and 14.
[0038] Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the
several views of the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0039] As shown in the accompanying drawings, the present invention
is directed to a support assembly generally indicated as 10
including a chair or "gaming chair" 12 movably supported on a
support frame generally indicated as 14. The support frame 14
includes a base 16 fixedly or securely connected to or mounted on
an appropriate support surface and a stanchion assembly 18. The
stanchion assembly 18 includes at least one stanchion member
extending upwardly and somewhat outwardly from the base 16 into
supporting interconnection with one or more portions such as at 20
of the support frame 14. In addition, the chair 12 is movably
connected to the support frame 14, 20 by a chair mount generally
indicated as 22. It is emphasized that the specific structural
features of the support frame 14, 20 as well as the chair mount 22
may assume a variety of different structures and/or configurations
which are appropriate to facilitate movement of the chair 12 about
a "multi-axis" path of travel.
[0040] The multi-axis movement of the chair 12 will be described in
greater detail with primary reference to the schematic
representations of FIGS. 2 and 3. Accordingly, the various
structural components of the assembly 10 facilitate selective and
controlled movement of the chair 12 as well as a participant
supported thereon preferably about a plurality of axes, which are
preferably transversely oriented, as schematically represented in
FIG. 3.
[0041] Other structural features associated with the embodiment of
FIG. 1, as well as others of the plurality of preferred embodiments
set forth in the additional figures, include a display assembly 24
including a monitor 26 supported by a monitor mount 28. The monitor
26 may include a flat screen, LCD display or other appropriate
monitor facility connected to or otherwise supported on a platform
27 connected to an outer or distal end of the monitor mount 28.
Further, in the embodiment of FIG. 1, the monitor mount 28 includes
an elongated configuration interconnected to the chair 12 or the
chair mount 22 in a manner which accomplishes movement of the
monitor 26 along with the chair 12, as the chair 12 travels through
its multi-axis path of travel. Therefore, the monitor mount 28
extends outwardly from a frontal portion of the chair 12 a
predetermined distance such that the monitor 26 is disposed in
facing relation to the frontal portion of the chair 12 in a readily
observable location relative to a participant on or within the
chair 12.
[0042] With primary reference to the embodiments of FIGS. 5 and 6,
additional structural features associated with these embodiments
include the monitor mount, generally indicated as 28', having an
elongated configuration. The monitor 26 is connected to and/or
supported in a suspended relation at the distal end of the monitor
mount 28' as clearly represented. The opposite end or other
appropriate portion of the monitor mount 28' is interconnected to
the chair mount 22 or other structure associated with the chair 12.
As such, the monitor 26 will be disposed in overlying relation to
the chair 12 and move with the chair 12, as it travels about one or
all of the plurality of preferably transversely oriented axes.
[0043] Yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention is
represented in FIG. 6 wherein the monitor mount 28'' also has an
elongated configuration with the platform 27 or other appropriate
support structure secured to an outer or distal end thereof in
supporting relation to the monitor 26. However, in this embodiment
the proximal or inner end of the monitor mount 28'' is secured to
the base 16. As such, this embodiment of the monitor mount 28''
disposes or supports the monitor 26 in a substantially fixed
position, wherein the monitor 26 does not travel or move with the
chair 12.
[0044] Further with regards to the embodiment of FIG. 1, as well as
other embodiments of the assembly 10 shown throughout the
accompanying Figures, the assembly 10 also includes a footrest
assembly generally indicated as 30. The footrest 30 also includes
an elongated configuration including at least a single elongated
arm or bar member 32 having a foot engaging portion 34 at an outer
or distal end thereof. Further, the footrest assembly 30 is
adjustably connected to the arm 32 at a distal end thereof.
Accordingly, the foot engaging portion 34 may be adjustably
positioned and therefore variably spaced relative to the chair 12
so as to accommodate participants of various sizes, ages, etc. The
adjustable structure associated with the arm 32 and the foot
engaging portion 34 may comprise a plurality of apertures 32'
formed in the bar 32 and a locking pin or like structure associated
with the footrest assembly 34. The foot engaging portion will
thereby be removably locked or maintained in a preferred and
variable spaced distance from the chair 12.
[0045] With primary reference to FIGS. 1, 1A and 1B, additional
structural and operative features associated with the embodiment of
FIG. 1 and other preferred embodiments as represented in
accompanying figures include a control assembly 38. The control
assembly 38 includes a control member 40 in the form of a joystick,
as at 40', a steering wheel as at 40'' or other appropriately
structured control members. Regardless of the specific structural
features of the control member 40, it is connected to a support
platform 42 which is adjustably and/or movably connected to a
monitor mount or otherwise interconnected to the chair 12. The
control member is movable with the chair through the aforementioned
multi-axis range of movement. In addition, the platform 42 is
further structured to contain or support a user interface 44 as
represented in FIG. 1B in the form of a keyboard or other operative
component. The user interface 44 facilitates interaction between
the participant and the control assembly 38 and/or a processing
assembly generally indicated as 60 schematically represented in
FIG. 2 and described in greater detail hereinafter. As such, the
platform 42 includes provisions for securing both the control
member 40 associated with the control assembly 38 as well as the
interface 44 so that the position of either or both can be
adjustable relative to the position of the participant within the
chair 12. Also, activation, adjustment or operation may be
controlled through manipulation of the interface 44 by the
participant or other personnel which may be in charge of operation
of the assembly 10, such as when it is used in a commercial
environment.
[0046] Yet additional structural and operative features of the
assembly 10 include the provision of a driver assembly generally
and schematically represented as 50 in FIG. 2. More specifically,
the driver assembly 50 comprises a plurality of driver members such
as, but not limited to, 52 and 53 and in certain additional
embodiments a third driver member 54, as represented in FIGS. 4 and
4A. Each of the driver members 52, 53 and 54 are preferably in the
form of an air cylinder as represented throughout the Figures,
wherein each of the plurality of air cylinders, defining the driver
members 52, 53 and 54 are connected in fluid communication with an
air or fluid source generally indicated as 56.
[0047] The fluid source 56 may be an air compressor, air pump or
other appropriate facility which generates a sufficient pressure
and quantity of air so as to accurately and responsively operate
the plurality of driver members 52 through 54. Fluid communication
between the fluid supply or source 56 and each of the air cylinders
defining the driver members 52 through 54 are not shown in detail.
However, with primary reference to FIG. 8, flexible tubing 55 in
supported relation on the frame 14 and/or portions of the monitor
mount 28 and/or chair mount 22 are provided. The flexible tubing 55
serve to house and interconnect the needed air containing conduits
between each of the driver members 52 through 54 and the fluid
source 56. In addition, an inlet or connection module 57 should be
connected to or be considered a part of a housing assembly
generally indicated as 58 serving to contain the fluid source 56.
The housing 58 and the inlet module 57 connected thereto may be
associated with a stand or like supporting structure associated
with the base 16 as also represented in FIG. 7.
[0048] As represented, the driver members 52 and 53 are disposed in
interconnecting relation between the support frame 14, 20 and the
chair 12 and/or chair mount 22. As such, each of at least two of
the driver members 52 and 53 are disposed and structured to
selectively move and/or position the chair 12 about different ones
of a plurality of preferably transversely oriented axes. As
represented in FIG. 2, driver member 52 is disposed and structured
to rotate or otherwise move the chair 12 about transverse axis 52'.
In cooperation therewith, driver member 53 is disposed and
structured to rotate or otherwise move the chair 12 about the
transverse axis 53' as schematically represented in FIG. 3. With
reference to FIG. 4, a third driver member 54 may be interconnected
between the base 16 and a stanchion assembly 18 which defines part
of the support frame 14.
[0049] More specifically, structural features represented in FIG. 4
include the stanchion assembly 18 being rotatbly or otherwise
movably connected to the base 16 such that the stanchion assembly
18 is movable about yet a third axis 54' also schematically
represented in FIG. 3. The movable interconnection 19 serving to
connect the base 16 and the stanchion assembly 18 may include a
bearing assembly (not shown for purposes of clarity) or other
appropriate movable interconnection or joint structure. Moreover,
the movable joint or interconnection 19 serves to facilitate
effective rotation in opposite directions, as indicated by
directional arrows 19' and 19'' about the transverse axis 54'
defining at least one of the plurality of transversely oriented
axes 52', 53', 54'. As such, the driver member 54 is interconnected
between the base 16 and the support frame 14 and more specifically,
the stanchion assembly 18. Accordingly, the third driver member 54
can be said to be disposed in driving relation to the chair 12 by
virtue of the driver member 54 being connected in driving relation
to the stanchion assembly 18 of the support frame 14.
[0050] Further with regard to the schematic representation of FIG.
3, the plurality of substantially transversely oriented axes 52',
53' and 54' collectively define a multi-axis range of movement of
the chair 54 upon activation of the plurality of driver members 52
through 54. While the plurality of transversely oriented axes 52'
through 54' are indicated as intersecting in perpendicular relation
to one another, this schematic representation is presented for
purposes of clarity only. More specifically, the actual multi-axis
of rotation or movement about which the driver members 52 through
54 move or position the chair 12 may in fact not be intersecting as
schematically represented in 53. However, such axes 52' through 54'
can be accurately described as being substantially transversely
oriented while still not intersecting with one another as
schematically represented in FIG. 3.
[0051] With further regard to the schematic representation of FIG.
2, the processing assembly 60 may be defined by a personal computer
or other appropriate computer facilities which may also be
structured to include communication capabilities with one or more
predetermined communication networks such as, but not limited to,
the Internet as at 62. Further, the processing assembly 60 may be
interconnected to the control assembly 38 for operative interaction
therewith through interface 34. Further, the processing assembly 60
is electronically connected either through hardwire or wireless
connection to the display assembly 24 as well as the monitor 26.
Such operative interconnection may be further facilitated by the
inclusion of the user interface 44 operable by a participant to
further regulate operational control of the display assembly 24 and
monitor assembly 26.
[0052] The Internet or other communication network 62 is accessible
through the processing assembly 60 by means of the personal
computer or other processor facility associated therewith. By
virtue of such access, downloading of appropriate software
applications is facilitated in order to further accomplish the
intended operation and control. Also, the processing assembly 60
through its interconnection with the Internet or other
communication network 62 is adapted for direct operative
interconnection with a plurality of gaming platforms or
applications which are commercially available.
[0053] With further reference to the schematic representation of
FIG. 2, the control assembly 38 is operatively connected to the
driver assembly 50 so as to accurately and substantially
concurrently control the activation of the various driver members
52, 53, 54. Instantaneous or concurrent movement of the chair 12
about the plurality of preferably transversely oriented axes 52'
through 54' is thereby efficiently accomplished. As such, the
control assembly 38 includes the aforementioned control member 40
in the form of joystick 40', steering wheel 40'' or appropriate
structure serving to activate and operate the driver members 52
through 54 of the driver assembly 50. As such, control circuitry 49
serves to interconnect operative components of the control assembly
38, including the control member 40 with the operative components
of the driver assembly 50 so as to actuate the fluid supply or
source 56. Activation of the fluid source 56 serves to activate
each of the driver members 52, 53, 54, etc. concurrently or
independently and thereby accomplish the almost universal movement
of the chair 12 about any one or concurrently all of the
substantially transversely oriented axes 52' through 54'.
[0054] Yet additional structural features of one or more of the
preferred embodiments of the assembly 10 of the present invention
included in FIGS. 9 and 9A through 12. More specifically, with
primary reference to FIGS. 9 and 9A, an input port or like module
70 is mounted in spaced but accessible relation to the frontal
portion of the chair 12, such as on the support platform 27 of the
monitor mount 24. As such, this device is used as a storage and
input facility for connecting cables or conductors serving to
interconnect the various components of the assembly 10. Such input
facilities include, but may not be limited to, a USB port, audio
port, s-video port, VGA, card reader and interconnection to the
control member 40. As with the flexible tubing 55 represented in
the embodiment of FIG. 8, an equivalent flexible tubing 55 may be
utilized to house interconnecting cables, electrical conductors or
the like between the intended operative device and the input module
70.
[0055] As shown in FIG. 10, yet additional structural features
associated with one or more of the preferred embodiments of the
assembly 10 may include a restraining assembly generally indicated
as 74. The restraining assembly 74 is mounted on or connected to
the chair 12 in an appropriate fashion so as to comfortably secure
a participant in or on the chair 12. The restraining assembly 74
may take the form of an upper chest or torso harness as indicated
and/or a lap strap, not shown for purposes of clarity.
[0056] FIG. 11 represents yet another structural modification and
embodiment associated with the assembly 10 and more specifically
associated with and/or in surrounding relation to the chair 12.
Such modification includes side and/or other enclosure panels 76
mounted on the support frame 14, 20 and/or the chair mount 22. FIG.
12 represents yet another preferred embodiment of the present
invention comprising a plurality of cushioning members 78 disposed
on a plurality of the parts associated with the frame 14, foot
assembly 30, monitor mount 28 and/or other structural members
associated with the seat 12. As such, the cushioning or protective
member 78 may be in the form of sleeves or like structures which at
least partially surround or cover exposed portions of the
aforementioned components in order to protect the participant
supported on the chair 12 from injury. The cushioning members 78
may comprise various resilient and/or cushioning type materials in
order to prevent any direct contact by the participant.
[0057] Yet additional structural and operative features which could
be incorporated in the present invention are represented in FIGS.
13 through 15 and include a controller assembly generally indicated
as 100. The controller assembly 100 is used for the purpose of
controlling console game systems 102, while substantially
concurrently being able to control one or more additional devices.
Such additional devices include, but are not limited to, a game
chair 12 as represented in FIGS. 1 through 12, the control board
108 associated therewith or a computer system 110. As such the
computer system 110 can control the game chair 12 or any one or
more additional devices.
[0058] As represented in FIG. 13, two connecting cables 104 and 106
are connected to the control assembly 100, wherein cable 104
represents a USB or other cable type that interconnects the
controller assembly 100 and the game system 102. The other of the
two cables, 106, connects to an auxiliary device such as the game
chair control board 108 or alternatively to the computer assembly
110. As set forth above, the computer assembly 110 may be operative
to control one or more additional devices, such as the game chair
12. The other end of the cable 106 is connected inside the
controller assembly 100 to operating circuitry associated therewith
(not shown for purposes of clarity). Moreover, the wires are
attached to the pointmeter leads on any of the controls of the
various joysticks 112 associated with the operative electronic
circuitry inside the controller assembly 100. Further, the cable
106 can also be wired to controller button leads, as at 114.
[0059] Accordingly, by accomplishing such electrical
interconnections, the resistance of the joystick 112, etc. or the
state of the control buttons, as at 114, can be transferred to
other devices such as the game control board 108, computer assembly
110, etc. As a result, the input from the joystick(s) 112 and/or
controls can be used to mimic the motion appearing on the console
game screen 26 as represented in FIGS. 1 through 12 with
corresponding motions to the game chair 12. Further, all of the
above can be accomplished without having to run or apply specific
software applications on the game console, which in most cases is
not possible from third parties without a lengthy approval
process.
[0060] With primary reference to FIG. 14, a variation of the
control assembly as represented in FIG. 13 is disclosed in FIG. 14
and is operatively structured to perform in substantially the same
manner. However, in the modified embodiment of FIG. 14, a switch
box controller 116 is disposed between the game controller and any
other device that is being controlled. This switch box assembly 116
has a series of buttons for each access that the game chair 12 or
other controlled device will be associated with. This will allow an
individual or a user to select joystick 112, 112', 112'', etc. to
be used to correspond to the movement of the chair 12 about a
selected axis. By way of example only, if the user presses or
otherwise activates the first button (1) under the X axis on the
switch box controller 16, as well as button (3) under the Y axis of
the switch box controller 116, the result will be a side to side
motion of the game chair 12, which can be controlled by a selected
one of the joysticks, as at 112. Further, the up and down motion of
the chair 12 could be controlled by the joystick, as at 112''. As
such, the controller assembly 100 will make it easy and efficient
for a user to customize the control of the chair 12 to a specific
or selected performance characteristic.
[0061] With primary reference to FIG. 15, another alternate
embodiment and operative configuration of the controller assembly
100 represents the addition of an electronic control repeater board
120. Accordingly, instead of adding an additional cable, as at 106
to the controller assembly 100, as represented in FIGS. 13 and 14.
The existing or other single cable 104 is plugged into the
electronic control repeater board 120. The signal is then split and
sent to both the game console 102 and the other devices, such as
the game chair control board 108, computer assembly 110, etc.
Accordingly, the concurrent splitting of the signal creates a
simultaneous and equivalent input to the receiving components as
clearly represented. Further, this interconnection does not have to
be limited to two devices, as indicated in FIG. 15, but can be
expanded to associate a larger number of devices concurrently. This
solution and operable configuration of FIG. 14 is electronically
controlled by the same switch box device 116 described.
Alternatively, it may be integrated into the repeater board 120
thereby rendering the X, Y axis selectively available to the user.
This solution works efficiently since it does not require the game
controller assembly 100 to be opened and manipulated in any way in
that all operative signaling and circuitry performance takes place
on the electronic board associated with the control assembly
100.
[0062] Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail
can be made to the described preferred embodiment of the invention,
it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and
shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative
and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention
should be determined by the appended claims and their legal
equivalents.
[0063] Now that the invention has been described,
* * * * *