U.S. patent application number 14/909465 was filed with the patent office on 2016-06-30 for an interactive laser tag system and a method of using the same.
The applicant listed for this patent is SMARTLAB PTE LTD. Invention is credited to Tony Lay Thiam TAN.
Application Number | 20160184698 14/909465 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52461775 |
Filed Date | 2016-06-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160184698 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
TAN; Tony Lay Thiam |
June 30, 2016 |
AN INTERACTIVE LASER TAG SYSTEM AND A METHOD OF USING THE SAME
Abstract
An interactive laser tag system for entertaining multiple play
participants or players is disclosed. The system comprises toy
laser weapons for each of the players; a wireless module or data
communication; a server for the login of the player of the game;
and a Global Positioning System (GPS) use for providing locations
of the players. The present invention also relates to a method of
using the laser tag system in a tagging game.
Inventors: |
TAN; Tony Lay Thiam;
(Singapore, SG) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SMARTLAB PTE LTD |
Singapore |
|
SG |
|
|
Family ID: |
52461775 |
Appl. No.: |
14/909465 |
Filed: |
August 7, 2013 |
PCT Filed: |
August 7, 2013 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/SG2013/000335 |
371 Date: |
February 2, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63F 13/219 20140901;
A63F 9/0291 20130101; A63F 13/214 20140902; A63F 13/30 20140902;
A63F 13/843 20140902; A63F 13/216 20140902 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/02 20060101
A63F009/02 |
Claims
1. An interactive laser tag system for entertaining multiple play
participants comprising: toy laser weapons for each of the players,
capable of transmitting and detecting an IR beam of light for use
in a game; a wireless module or data communication linked to
communicate with software or apps on a mobile display device loaded
with web-based software; a server for the login of the player of
the game which may reside on the server or computer that is data
linked with the toy laser weapons and the mobile display device;
and a Global Positioning System (GPS) use for providing locations
of the players, of which the GPS data are made available to the
players, wherein the web-based software operating on the mobile
display device calculates and determines hit by a player being
registered, and generates vibration, plays a sound and visual
effects of the toy laser weapons on the mobile display device, and
generates a Graphical User Interface that displayable on the mobile
display device kept with the players so as to enhance the effects
of the game.
2. The interactive laser tag system of claim 1, wherein the toy
laser weapons comprises laser tag sword, shield, glove, spear and
bow.
3. The interactive laser tag system of claim 2, wherein the laser
tag sword, shield, glove, spear and bow area capable of
transmitting and detecting an IR beam for use in a game.
4. The interactive laser tag system of claim 1, wherein the toy
laser weapons contains IR emitters and IR receivers.
5. The interactive laser tag system of claim 2, wherein the laser
tag sword, shield, spear, glove and bow contain IR emitters and IR
receivers.
6. The interactive laser tag system of claim 1, or 3, wherein the
laser tag weapons are integrated with acceleration sensor,
gyroscopic sensor, and magnetic sensor to track tilt, movement and
speed of the weapons.
7. The interactive laser tag system of claim 1, wherein the mobile
display devices include wearable computers, mobile phones, mini LCD
hooked on glasses or visor worn by players.
8. The interactive laser tag system of claim 1, wherein the laser
tag weapons contain at least a sensor selected from the group
consisting of IR sensor and movement sensor.
9. The interactive laser tag system of claim 8, wherein the IR
shooter contains IR emitters, IR receivers, wireless Bluetooth or
WLAN module, acceleration, gyroscopic and magnetic sensors and an
embedded microcontroller.
10. The interactive laser tag system of claim 8, wherein the IR
sensor contains IR receivers, acceleration, gyroscopic and magnetic
sensors, vibration motors, and wireless Bluetooth or WLAN
module.
11. The interactive laser tag system of claim 1, wherein the
software operating on the mobile display device tracks the types of
weapons being used, the types of shots fired or strikes on its
opponents, the mode of the weapons and the number of hits received
from the opponents.
12. A method for providing an interactive game, the method
comprising the steps of: a. providing each play participant with a
toy laser tag weapon capable of transmitting an IR beam of light
through an infrared lens and a mobile display device; b. monitoring
the location of opponents indicated on the mobile display device,
and; c. waving the weapon directed at the opponent to shoot IR
beams at the opponent and/or activating a switch on the screen of
the mobile display device, and/or exerting a pressure or rubbing
action on the contact surface or a rapid movement or shaking of the
device or the mobile display device; and d. firing the weapon onto
an on-sight opponent with the toy laser weapon by triggering a
button or a trigger on the weapon; wherein firing by pressing a
trigger provided on the weapon triggers a command to the mobile
display device to generate vibration and play a sound file
downloaded from the server to simulate the appropriate sound and
LED light flashes at the lens, indicating that shooter has been
triggered.
13. The interactive laser tag system of claim 1, wherein the toy
laser tag weapon is connected to the mobile display device via
Bluetooth or WLAN module.
14. The interactive laser tag system of claim 13, wherein an ON/OFF
switch and a UR switch are provided to the toy laser tag, allowing
firmware to establish connection via Bluetooth or WLAN to the
mobile display device.
15. The method for providing an interactive game of claim 12,
wherein the IR beams are fired in burst with calibrated time
intervals and the power of the IR beams emitted is calibrated to a
desired range.
16. The method for providing an interactive game of claim 12 or 15,
wherein the power of IR beams is altered via the use of the mobile
display device through a Graphical User interface.
17. The method for providing an interactive game of claim 12,
wherein at least one of the toy laser tag weapons comprises: a toy
laser tag shooter, a toy laser tag sword, a toy laser tag bow, a
toy laser tag spear, a toy laser tag glove, a toy laser tag shield
or a toy laser tag sensor, or a toy laser tag weapon that combines
more than one of the functions of a toy laser tag shooter, a toy
laser tag sword, a toy laser tag bow, a toy laser tag spear, a toy
laser tag glove, a toy laser tag shield or a toy laser tag
sensor.
18. An interactive laser tag system for entertaining multiple play
participants comprising: a. toy laser weapons for each of the
players, capable of transmitting and detecting an IR beam of light
for use in a game; b. a wireless module or data communication
linked to communicate with software or apps on a mobile display
device loaded with web-based software; c. a server for the login of
the player of the game; d. tag play screen comprising a plurality
of lined rows and columns of integrated IR receivers and IR
emitters with light dependent resistors with embedded light
dependent resistor, wherein the tag play screen is connected via
Bluetooth or WLAN to the mobile display device, wherein the
web-based software operating on the mobile display device
calculates and determines hit by a player being registered, and
plays a sound and visual effects of the toy laser weapons on the
mobile display device, and generates a Graphical User Interface
that displayable on the mobile display device kept with the players
so as to enhance the effects of the game.
19. The interactive laser tag system for entertaining multiple play
participants of claim 18, wherein the tag play screen is connected
to the mobile display device via Bluetooth or WLAN.
20. The interactive laser tag system of claim 18 or 19, wherein the
tag play screen is capable of emitting and receiving IR beams.
21. The interactive laser tag system of claim 18, wherein the IR
emitters and receivers are embedded to the tag play screen with IR
absorbent materials to minimize the bouncing of the IR beams in the
room.
22. The interactive laser tag system of claim 21, wherein the
strength of the IR beams is calibrated via the use of software or
apps to minimize bouncing of the IR beams in the room.
23. A method for providing an interactive game of claim 12, wherein
at least one of the selected games comprises: future gaming
scene-laser fight, ninja fighting or battlefield gaming
scene-combat fight.
24. A method for providing an interactive game, the method
comprising the steps of: a. providing each play participant with a
toy laser tag weapon capable of transmitting an IR beam of light
through an infrared lens and a mobile display device; b. connecting
a tag play screen to the mobile display device that registers the
player at the same serve on the same game via Bluetooth or WLAN; c.
activating the tag play screen by choosing a computer-animated
figures provided by mythical theme to fight against; d. waving the
weapon directed at the opponent to shoot IR beams directed at the
figures on the tag play screen and/or activating a switch on the
screen of the mobile display device, and/or exerting a pressure or
rubbing action on the contact surface or a rapid movement or
shaking of the device or the mobile display device; and e. firing
the weapon onto the figures with the toy laser weapon by triggering
a button or a trigger on the weapon; wherein firing by pressing a
trigger provided on the weapon triggers a command to the mobile
display device to generate vibration and play a sound file
downloaded from the server to simulate the appropriate sound and
LED light flashes at the lens, indicating that shooter has been
triggered.
25. A method for providing an interactive game of claim 25, wherein
at least one of the selected games comprises: fighting dragon,
Urban Warfare-Sniper, and Ninja warriors.
26. A method for providing an interactive game using a toy laser
tag spear, bow, glove, shield and sword of the system of claim 18,
comprising the steps of a. Providing toy laser weapons including a
toy laser tag spear, bow, glove, shield and sword for each of the
players, capable of transmitting and detecting an IR beam of light
for use in a game, wherein the toy laser weapons are connected to a
handphone; b. Connecting the tag play screen to a mobile display
device that registers the players at the server; c. Activating the
tag play screen and theme with various computer-animated anime
characters and a dragon being chosen for the game; d. Waving the
dragon and triggering the toy laser tag weapon at the animated
dragon on the tag play screen, wherein when the dragon is tagged by
toy laser tag spear or bow, the dragons vaporized.
27. A method for providing an interactive game using a toy laser
tag gun and sword of the system of claim 18, comprising the steps
of a. Providing toy laser tag gun and sword for each of the
players, capable of transmitting and detecting an IR beam of light
for use in a game, wherein the toy laser tag gun and the sword are
connected to a handphone; b. Connecting the tag play screen to a
mobile display device that registers the players at the servers; c.
activating the tag play screen and mythical theme with various
computer-animated anime characters and urban warriors being chosen
for the game; d. waving the urban warrior and triggering the toy
laser tag gun and sword at the animated urban warrior on the tag
play screen, wherein the player uses the laser tag sword to kill
the invading urban warriors.
28. The method for providing an interactive game of claim 26,
wherein the dragon throws rock at the players and the player uses
the shield to block/protect.
29. The method for providing an interactive game of claim 26 or 28,
wherein the rock reaches a certain size, the IR emitters are fired
to tag the player or the play moves away from the computer-animated
rock.
30. The method for providing an interactive game of claim 29,
wherein the dragons tagged by toy laser tag spear or bow
vaporize.
31. The method for providing an interactive game of claim 27,
wherein the tag play screen shows the scene moving to simulate
player walking across a path to take up sniper position.
32. The method for providing an interactive game of claim 27 or 31,
wherein player uses the graphical user interface on the handphone
to do a night vision goggle.
33. The method for providing an interactive game of claim 27 or 31,
wherein the player uses the graphical user interface on the
handphone to take cover when artillery shells are falling or RPG
rockets or grenades are being hurled at the position of the
players.
34. The method for providing an interactive game using a toy laser
tag gun for an interactive laser tag system of claim 18, comprising
the steps of a. Providing toy laser tag glove for each of the
players, capable of transmitting and detecting an IR beam of light
for use in a game, wherein the toy laser tag glove and the sword
are connected to a handphone; b. Connecting the tag play screen to
a mobile display device that registers the players at the servers;
c. activating the tag play screen and mythical theme with various
computer-animated anime characters being chosen for the game; d.
triggering the gloves to kill ninja warrior with the emission of
the IR beams. e. perform ninja jutsu and hurling of ninja knives
and spikes using the laser tag glove.
35. The method for providing an interactive game in any one of
claims 12, and 24, wherein the game play permits laser tag players
to start the game play even at a distance away from each other
using the software via mobile device display, and the play allows a
player to kill the opponent with a single blow at close proximity
through use of tag sword.
36. The method for providing an interactive game in any one of
claims 12, and 24, wherein the IR beam is directed simultaneously
at more than one receiver attached to the body of the player with
accuracy, such that the players are compelled to physically move
around rather than just through the movement of a handheld game
controller.
37. The interactive laser tag system for entertaining multiple play
participants of claim 18, wherein software that initiates and
activates the tag screen is self calibrated to minimise rebounding
of the IR beams.
38. The interactive laser tag system for entertaining multiple play
participants of claim 18 or claim 37, wherein the weapons used
together with the tag screen play is self calibrated through the
software to ensure that IR rebounding off the area of play is
minimised.
39. The method for providing an interactive game as set forth in
claim 17, wherein the bow comprises a trigger device containing an
accelerometer, or a measurement inertial sensor or the like, and is
clipped onto the string of the bow to trigger the shooting of the
arrow.
40. The method for providing an interactive game as set forth in
claim 17, wherein the trigger on the spear triggers a command to
the mobile display device to play a sound file to simulate an
appropriate sound by an attacking spear.
41. The method for providing an interactive game as set forth in
claim 40, wherein the data of maximum velocity and the bearing of
throwing the spear are determined by an accelerometer, a
measurement and inertial sensor or a smart advanced sensor.
42. The method for providing an interactive game as set forth in
claim 41, wherein the accelerometer, the measurement and inertial
sensor or the smart advanced sensor provide information on maximum
acceleration of the thrown spear, the time duration of acceleration
and the direction of throw of the spear.
43. The method for proving an interactive game as set forth in
claim 41, wherein a thrown spear hitting an opponent is determined
by employing the equations of parabolic motion of projectiles, and
the distance and bearing between the throw and the opponent using
GPS data from the server that generated from the mobile display
device of the players.
44. The method for providing an interactive game as set forth in
claim 17, wherein the laser tag sword is fired by triggering the
trigger on the sword or automatic trigger due to acceleration of
the sword, while waving the sword directed at the opponent.
45. The method for providing an interactive game as set forth in
claim 44, wherein the laser tag sword is fired to shoot IR beams in
burst with calibrated time intervals.
46. The method for providing an interactive game as set forth in
claim 45, wherein the power of the IR beams emitted is calibrated
to a desired range.
47. The method for providing an interactive game as set forth in
claim 17, wherein the laser tag glove is being fired by the
activating a switch on the screen of the mobile display device, or
by exerting a pressure or a rubbing action on a contact surface to
select weapons including spike, knife, or fireball that appears on
the display of the mobile display device.
48. The method for providing an interactive game as set forth in
claim 47, wherein the spike, knife, fireball are first appeared
prior to being fired towards the target by rapid movement and
pressure on a sensor trigger which embedded in the glove.
49. The method for providing an interactive game as set forth in
claim 17, wherein a string of data modulated or encoded onto a
carrier frequency is being registered on the sensor in the shield
when the sensor registers a hit from the IR beam emitted by the
laser tag sword, the bow, the glove and the spear.
50. The method for providing an interactive game as set forth in
claim 49, wherein the string of data is then transmitted to the
mobile display device to the server, and a sound file to simulate
that the directed attack is being blocked.
51. The method for providing an interactive game as set forth in
claim 49, wherein a vibration is generated on the shield with the
use of a vibration motor.
52. The method for providing an interactive game of claim 12,
wherein a laser tag glove is used to perform ninja jutsu and
hurling of ninja knives and spikes, wherein when selected inputs
are being keyed by touching the screen of the mobile display
device, or by exerting a pressure or rubbing action on the laser
tag glove, followed by firing of a beam of IR to the opponent, and
when opponent is being hit, the jutsu is performed on the opponent.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to play systems and toys, and
specifically to interactive laser tag games and toys involving
infrared light transmission. The present invention also relates to
a method of using the play system and toys.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] There are many games, toys, play structures and other
similar entertainment systems that are well known and played
interactively among children and adults. A variety of commercially
available play toys and games are available to provide both for
education and entertainment opportunities for children, for
instance, reading, memory stimulation, tactile coordination,
stimulations of children's imaginations, creativity and social
interactivity, and the like.
[0005] While there are many games and toys that interactive and
that employed infrared light communications between a plurality of
players. For instance, U.S. Pat. No. 5,904,621, entitled
"Electronic Game with Infrared (IR) emitter and Sensor" to David
Small et al, discloses a system that uses infrared communication. A
toy laser tag being a hand-held toy gun and target apparatus are
disclosed, and an electronic controller is coupled to a transmitter
for sending a series of encoded IR light signals and an IR receiver
for detecting IR light signals.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 7,338,375 entitled "Integrated Voice and Data
Communication for Laser Tag System" to David Small discloses a
system that uses infrared communication. The toy laser tag gun
includes an IR receiver, and IR transmitter, a speaker and a
microphone to allow audible sound/voice to be communicated over IR
beam or a radio frequency signal while date is communicated over
the IR beam or a radio frequency signal while data is communicated
over the IR beam. U.S. Pat. No. 7,338,375 discloses solely on laser
tag guns and does not disclose other kind of laser tag weapons.
[0007] US Patent Publication No. 2001/0024973 entitled "Laser Light
Sword" to Christopher Meredith discloses a system using sword for
gaming. The laser light sword has a handle having accelerometers,
light switch, joystick and micro switch to sense and control
movement. The sword does not make use of IR receiver and
transmitter.
[0008] US Patent Publication No. 20050043102 discloses an
electronic game comprising at least two two-way communication
information units. The two communication units send out packets of
information at predetermined intervals to similar information
units. A similar information unit can read the packet and sense
that there is another device in the room and alert the user. This
feature simulates radar.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,577,962 discloses a gun game machine from
which a player takes out and holds a model gun to play a game. When
the number of operations of a trigger lever attains the preset
number of times, the game is stopped and, at the same time, a
solenoid operates to disengage a boss of a lever from a recess of
an advance and retreat member and the advance and retreat member is
ejected down by the effect of a spring. When the player pushes up
the advance and retreat member to set, a sensor detects the pushing
action and resets the trigger count value for enabling the game to
continue. The action of pushing up the advance and retreat device
is similar to the real action of loading a cartridge into a real
gun and the player can enjoy a game having realism.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 4,799,687 discloses a light projection tag
game requiring the overlap of player projected images on a gaming
surface. Each player is provided with an optical transceiver that
has a receiver with a narrow field of view that is geometrically
coincident with the light beam projected from the transceiver. Each
player's transceiver can detect when an opponent's image that is
also projected on the gaming surface enters this field of view
thereby achieving a tag. Receiver methods use either signal
transients or infrared modulation. Various embodiments include
automatic targets, automatic game control, and projected gaming
mazes.
[0011] However, many of the above listed inventions have certain
drawbacks. For instance, existing laser tag games do not provide
the use of tag sword, bow, shield and spear in the game play apart
from gun. There is also limited effort to make use of technological
advancements made in wireless technology like Bluetooth, and
acceleration, gyroscopic and magnetic sensors to integrate these
technologies with the opportunities bring about by mobile computing
and phone to make the gaming experience of laser tag gamers more
interesting and challenging. Further, existing laser tag games do
not allow any play until the players are in visual contact with
each other, as clear lines of sights are required before the IR
beams can be shot at each other. Existing laser tag games cannot be
effectively played when players get in close range within 5 meters.
At very close range, players are tempted to cover their sensors.
Effective players at close range are those who can run fast as they
shoot, before scurrying away and using their backs and body parts
to shield their sensors from IR beams. There is no laser sword that
can be used to effectively hit and kill players at close range. The
same existing laser tag equipment does not allow any player or
players to play against the computer in an IR shoot-out of
computer-animated figures including soldiers, warriors, ninjas,
robots, aliens and mythical creatures.
[0012] Accordingly, the present invention provides an interactive
laser tag games and toys involving infrared light transmission
which mitigates the above drawbacks.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] An interactive laser tag games and toys including sword,
bow, shield, glove and spear using infrared light communications
between a plurality of players is disclosed. These laser tag
weapons comprises IR emitters, and IR receivers and are
respectively integrated with sensors for acceleration, gyroscopic
and magnetic sensor to track tilt, movement and speed of the
weapons, and wireless module or data communication linked to
communicate with software or apps on mobile or wearable computers
or mobile phones. The toy laser tag weapons further comprises at
least an IR shooter, IR sensor and movement sensor that can be
mounted onto toy sword, bow, glove, shield and spear. The IR
shooter, IR sensor and movement sensors can be incorporated into
plastic casings to be a laser tag sword, shield, glove and bow, or
an IR device having more than a single role, for instance, having
combined roles of laser tag sword and glove, or laser tag sword,
glove and gun.
[0014] It is an object of the present disclosure disclosed herein
to provide an interactive laser tag games system of fight. The
system comprises toy laser weapons for each of the players, capable
of transmitting and detecting an IR beam of light for use in a
game; a wireless module or data communication linked to communicate
with software or apps on a mobile display device loaded with
web-based software; a server for the login of the player of the
game; and a Global Positioning System (GPS) use for providing
locations of the players, of which the GPS data are made available
to the players, wherein the web-based software operating on the
mobile display device calculates and determines hit by a player
being registered, and plays a sound and visual effects of the toy
laser weapons on the mobile display device, and generates a
Graphical User Interface that displayable on the mobile display
device kept with the players so as to enhance the effects of the
game.
[0015] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
interactive laser tag games system comprising the steps of
providing each play participant with a toy laser tag weapon capable
of transmitting an IR beam of light through an infrared lens and a
mobile display device; monitoring the location of opponents
(players) indicated on the mobile display device; waving the weapon
directed at the opponent to shoot IR beams at the opponent and/or
activating a switch on the screen of the mobile display device,
and/or exerting a pressure or rubbing action on the contact surface
or a rapid movement or shaking of the device or the mobile display
device; and firing the weapon onto an on-sight opponent with the
toy laser weapon by triggering a button or a trigger on the weapon;
wherein firing by pressing the trigger provided on the weapon
triggers a command to the mobile display device to vibrate and play
a sound file downloaded from the server to simulate the appropriate
sound, and LED light flashes at the lens, indicating that shooter
has been triggered.
[0016] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an
interactive laser tag system for entertaining multiple play
participants comprising: a toy laser weapons for each of the
players, capable of transmitting and detecting an IR beam of light
for use in a game; a wireless module or data communication linked
to communicate with software or apps on a mobile display device
loaded with web-based software; a server for the login of the
player of the game; a Global Positioning System (GPS) use for
providing locations of the players, of which the GPS data are made
available to the players; and tag play screen comprising a
plurality of lined rows and columns of integrated IR receivers and
IR emitters with light dependent resistors with embedded light
dependent resistor, wherein the tag play screen is connected via
Bluetooth or WLAN to the mobile display device, wherein the
web-based software operating on the mobile display device
calculates and determines hit by a player being registered, and
plays a sound and visual effects of the toy laser weapons on the
mobile display device, and generates a Graphical User Interface
that displayable on the mobile display device kept with the players
so as to enhance the effects of the game.
[0017] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
a method for providing an interactive game, the method comprising
the steps of: a. providing each play participant with a toy laser
tag weapon capable of transmitting an IR beam of light through an
infrared lens and a mobile display device; b. connecting a tag play
screen to the mobile display device that registers the player at
the same serve on the same game via Bluetooth or WLAN; c.
activating the tag play screen by choosing a computer-animated
figures provided by mythical theme to fight against; d. waving the
weapon directed at the opponent to shoot IR beams at the opponent
and/or activating a switch on the screen of the mobile display
device, and/or exerting a pressure or rubbing action on the contact
surface or a rapid movement or shaking of the device or the mobile
display device and, e. firing the weapon onto the figures with the
toy laser weapon by triggering a button or a trigger on the weapon;
wherein firing by pressing the trigger provided on the weapon
triggers a command to the mobile display device to vibrate and play
a sound file downloaded from the server to simulate the appropriate
sound, and LED light flashes at the lens, indicating that shooter
has been triggered.
[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
method for providing an interactive game using a toy laser tag
spear, bow, shield, glove and sword of the system, comprising the
steps of a. providing toy laser weapons including a toy laser tag
spear, bow, shield, glove and sword for each of the players,
capable of transmitting and detecting an IR beam of light for use
in a game, wherein the toy laser weapons are connected to a
handphone; b. connecting the tag play screen to a mobile display
device that registers the players at the server; c. activating the
tag play screen and mythical theme with various computer-animated
figures and an anime character being chosen for the game; d.
triggering IR beams using the toy laser tag gun and sword at the
animated anime character on the tag play screen, wherein the player
uses the laser tag sword to kill the anime character.
[0019] Yet a further object of the present invention is to provide
a method for providing an interactive game using a toy laser tag
gun and sword of the system, comprising the steps of a. providing
toy laser tag gun and sword for each of the players, capable of
transmitting and detecting an IR beam of light for use in a game,
wherein the toy laser tag gun and the sword are connected to a
handphone; b. connecting the tag play screen to a mobile display
device that registers the players at the servers; c. activating the
tag play screen and mythical theme with various computer-animated
figures and urban warriors being chosen for the game; d. triggering
IR beams using the toy laser tag gun and sword at the animated
urban warrior on the tag play screen, wherein the player uses the
laser tag sword to kill the invading urban warriors at close
proximity.
[0020] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an
interactive game, wherein different types of weapons can be used in
the game, and the game play permits laser tag players to start the
game play even at a distance away from each other using the
software via mobile device display, and the play allows a player to
kill the opponent with a single blow at close proximity through use
of tag sword or other toy laser tag weapon.
[0021] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
an interactive game, wherein the IR beam is directed simultaneously
at more than one receiver attached to the body of the player with
accuracy, such that the players are compelled to physically move
around rather than just through the movement of a game.
[0022] Another object of the present invention is to provide an
interactive game, wherein the software that initiates and activates
the tag screen is self calibrated to minimise rebounding of the IR
beams, and similarly, the weapons used together with the tag screen
play is self calibrated through the software to ensure that IR
rebounding off the area of play is minimised.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] Having thus summarized the general nature of the invention
and its essential features and advantages, certain preferred
embodiments and modifications thereof will become apparent to those
skilled in the art from the detailed description herein having
reference to the figures that follow, of which:
[0024] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an interactive laser tag
system in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
[0025] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an interactive laser tag
system in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the
present invention, wherein sword and shield are used by players in
the game.
[0026] FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram of an interactive laser tag
system in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the
present invention, wherein bow and shield are used by players in
the game.
[0027] FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram of an interactive laser tag
system in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the
present invention, wherein spear and shield are used by players in
the game.
[0028] FIG. 2C is a schematic diagram of an interactive laser tag
system in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the
present invention, wherein toy guns are used by players in the
game.
[0029] FIG. 2D is a schematic diagram of an interactive laser tag
system in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the
present invention, wherein glove and shield are used by
players.
[0030] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of shooter having a triggering
mean and an emitter in accordance with the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of sensor having a IR receiver
enclosed by a plastic casing in accordance with the present
invention.
[0032] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a toy gun mounted with a
shooter having a triggering means in accordance with the preferred
embodiment of the invention.
[0033] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a laser tag toy glove having
a triggering means in accordance with the preferred embodiment of
the invention.
[0034] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a bow in accordance with the
preferred embodiment of the invention.
[0035] FIG. 8 shows schematically the views of a shield, a sword
and a mobile display device in accordance with the present
invention.
[0036] FIG. 9 shows schematically players holding a toy laser tag
spear in accordance with the present invention.
[0037] FIGS. 10 and 11 schematically show the laser tag screen with
animated features in accordance with the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 12 is a flowchart indicating the triggering of weapon
and the corresponding actions of the mobile display device and
server in accordance with the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing the game being played in
accordance with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0040] In the following detailed description of the invention,
numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a
thorough understanding of the invention. However, the invention may
be practiced without these specific details. In other instances
well known methods, procedures, components, etc. have not been
described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of
the invention.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 1, an interactive laser tag system 100 in
accordance with the present invention is illustrated. The
interactive laser tag system 100 for entertaining multiple play
participants or players comprises a toy laser weapon (shooter) 10,
a wireless module or data communication 13, 17, a server 19 being
installed with GPS functions. The toy laser weapon 10 includes toy
laser tag sword 40, bow 80, shield 60, glove 110 and spear 112
which are capable of transmitting and detecting an IR beam of light
for use in a game. In a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, these laser tag weapons 10 contain IR emitters and IR
receivers and are integrated with acceleration, gyroscopic and
magnetic sensor, embedded microcontroller to sense the movement and
speed of the weapons.
[0042] The wireless module or data communication 13, 17 of the
present invention is linked to communicate with software or apps on
a mobile display device such as a handphone 13, wearable mobile
computers or the like. Each of the laser tag weapons 10 mentioned
above includes at least an IR shooter, IR sensor and movement
sensor to be mounted onto toy sword 40, bow 80, shield 60, glove
110 and spear 112. These weapon components can be incorporated into
plastic casings for inserting a laser tag sword 40, glove 110,
spear 112, shield 60 and bow 80. The IR shooter 10 according to the
present invention carries IR emitters, IR receivers, wireless
module, acceleration, gyroscopic and magnetic sensors, and an
embedded microcontroller, while the IR sensor 15 contains IR
receivers, acceleration, gyroscopic and magnetic sensors, and
wireless Bluetooth or WLAN module. In the preferred embodiment, the
IR sensor 15 can include vibration motor which generates vibration
when a beam of IR from the emitter is received, and the IR sensor
15 may also be integrated into gloves, jacket, belt and the
like.
[0043] In the present invention, mobile display device 17 includes
handphone and wearable mobile computers, which can play sound files
and create vibration in response to sensor 15 receiving an IR beam
from the shooter 10.
[0044] In accordance with the present invention, each player has a
mobile display device 17 such as a computer or phone or a wearable
computer, of which the data is linked with a plurality of shooters
10 and sensors 15. The web-based software operating on the mobile
display device such as computer or phone 13 is used to track the
types of weapons being used, the types of shots fired or strikes on
its opponents, the mode of the weapons, and the number of hits
received from the opponents (other players).
[0045] Using a Global Positioning System (GPS) of the mobile
display device 13/17, and data derived from the acceleration,
gyroscopic and magnetic sensor embedded in the toy laser weapons,
the web-based software calculates and determines whether the hits
by the players are registered, plays the sound and visual effects
of the laser tag sword 40, shield 80, glove 110, spear 112 and bow
60 on the mobile display device or phone 13, and generates a
Graphical User Interface (not shown) that can be displayed on
mobile devices or mini LCD hooked on glasses or visor worn by the
players to enhance the effects of the game.
[0046] The present invention can be extended to create laser tag
Ninja style weapons allowing the throwing of handheld weapons like
knives, spikes and stars during laser tag plays via the laser tag
glove 110 which will house IR emitters and IR receivers integrated
with acceleration, gyroscopic and magnetic sensor, and
microcontroller to sense the movement and speed, mobile display
device and vibration motors. The toy laser equipment described
above can be used to play against animated anime characters
including warriors, ninjas, robots, aliens and mythical creatures
projected on a special screen known as tag play screen that have
embedded IR emitters and receivers allowing laser tag gaming
between the players and the projected computer-animated
figures.
[0047] In accordance with the present invention, the toy laser
weapons for each of the players, capable of transmitting and
detecting an IR beam of light for use in a game through an infrared
lens. Referring to FIG. 3, the shooter 10 is operated by battery
and is connected to a mobile computer or a handphone via Bluetooth
or WLAN. When a firing is required, the shooter 10 requires
pressing the trigger 11 or button trigger or the like. Before the
starting of the game, the power of the IR beams emitted is
calibrated to a desired range to ensure there is no rebound. When
the trigger 11 is pressed, a command is triggered to the mobile
display device 13 to vibrate and play a sound file downloaded from
the server 19 to simulate the appropriate sound and LED light will
flash at the lens to stimulate firing, such that the user knows
that the shooter 10 has been triggered. The shooter is provided
with an ON/OFF 22 switch and a L/R switches 23 to allow the
firmware to establish connection via Bluetooth or WLAN to the
handphone 13 that operates on IOS or Android. The shooter 10 also
carries a battery, wireless module (Bluetooth or WLAN), IR emitter,
lens and microprocessor.
[0048] In FIG. 2, there is shown another preferred embodiment of
the present invention, a toy laser tag sword 40 is employed in the
system. The toy laser tag sword 40 is capable of transmitting an IR
beam of light for use in a laser tag gaming. The laser tag sword 40
is connected to a mobile display device 13 (which is a mobile
computer or a handphone) via Bluetooth or WLAN module. To fire the
laser tag sword 40, a trigger on the sword has to be triggered or
the acceleration of the sword reaches a certain value that
automatically triggers the firing, while waving the sword 40
directed at the opponent to shoot IR beams being fired in burst
with calibrated time intervals and the power of the IR beams
emitted is calibrated to a desired range.
[0049] When the trigger of the sword 40 is pressed, the command to
the mobile display device 13 is also triggered to play a sound file
to simulate the sound produced by an attacking sword 40. In
accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention,
a variety of the range and burst rate of the IR beams controlled
via the use of mobile computer or handphone or mobile display
device 13 through a dedicated Graphical User interface have been
contemplated to simulate the power of the sword 40. There is a
battery (not shown), wireless module, IR emitter, lens and
microprocessor are embedded within the laser tag sword 40. The
wireless module includes Bluetooth or WLAN. There are a plurality
of grip, handle and sword blade are also been contemplated for the
laser tag swords 40.
[0050] In the present preferred embodiments, a wireless module or
data communication linked to communicate with software or apps on a
mobile display device 13 loaded with web-based software is used. As
mentioned, the wireless module includes Bluetooth or WLAN. The
server 19 in accordance with the present invention, is used to
provide sound files to simulate an appropriate sound and LED light
(that will flash at the lens).
[0051] In FIG. 2A, there is shown another further embodiment of the
present invention being a toy laser tag bow 80 capable of
transmitting IR beam of light for use in a laser tag gaming. The
tag bow 80 is connected to mobile computer or handphone 13 via
Bluetooth or WLAN module, and firing of the laser tag bow 80
requires the pulling of the string while aiming at the opponent to
direct the IR beam. The power of the emitted IR beam can be altered
via the use of mobile computer or handphone 13 through a dedicated
Graphical User interface to simulate an arrow carrying a fireball.
A trigger device 11 (FIG. 4) containing accelerometer or
Measurement Inertial Sensor or any other smart sensor will be
clipped on the string of the bow 80 to trigger the shooting of the
arrow. The trigger of the shooting of the arrow will also trigger a
command to the mobile computer or handphone to vibrate and play a
sound file to simulate the appropriate sound produced by a shooting
arrow. The sound is generated from the server 19 connected to the
system. Embedded within the laser tag bow 80 is battery, wireless
module (e.g. Bluetooth or WLAN), IR emitter, lens, microprocessor
and accelerometer or Measurement Inertial Sensor or any other smart
sensor. A variety of grip, aiming sight and bow have also been
contemplated for the laser tag bow 80.
[0052] In FIG. 2B, there is shown in another preferred embodiment
of the present invention, a toy laser tag spear 112 that is capable
of transmitting an IR beam of light for use in a laser tag gaming
is employed. The spear 112 is connected to a mobile display device
13 via Bluetooth or WLAN module. It will require pressing the
trigger of the toy laser tag spear 112 while aiming the spear 112
directed at the opponent to shoot the IR beams being fired in burst
with calibrated time intervals and the power of the IR beams
emitted is calibrated to a desired range. When the trigger is
pressed, a command is triggered to the mobile display device 13 to
play a sound file to simulate the appropriate sound by an attacking
spear. In another preferred embodiment, the data on the maximum
velocity and bearing of the throw can be determined by using
accelerometer, measurement and inertial sensor or smart advanced
sensor which will provide the information on maximum acceleration
of the spear, the time duration when this acceleration is applied
and the direction of the throw.
[0053] Throughout the game in accordance with the present
invention, a variety of the range and burst rate of the IR beams
controlled via the use of the mobile display device 13 through a
dedicated Graphical user interface have been contemplated to
simulate the power of the spear. A variety of grip, handle and
spear tip have also been contemplated for the laser tag spear
112.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 2C, there is shown another preferred
embodiment of the present invention is to provide a toy laser tag
gun 120 capable of transmitting an IR beam of light for use in a
laser tag gaming, which is connected to mobile computer or
handphone 13 via Bluetooth or WLAN module. Firing of the laser tag
gun 120 requires the pressing of a trigger directed at the opponent
to shoot IR beams being fired in burst with calibrated time
intervals and the power of the IR beams emitted is calibrated to
the desired range.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 2D, there is shown another preferred
embodiment of the present invention is to provide a toy laser tag
glove 110 capable of transmitting an IR beam of light for use in a
laser tag gaming, which is connected to mobile computer or
handphone 13 via Bluetooth or WLAN module. The laser tag glove 110
houses the IR emitters and IR receivers integrated with
acceleration, gyroscopic and magnetic sensor, and microcontroller
to sense the movement and speed, and can house the mobile display
device 13. Firing of the laser tag glove 110 requires the
activating a switch on screen of mobile display device 13, and/or
exerting pressure or rubbing action on contact surface to activate
a selection of weapons like spike, knife, fireball that appears on
the display of the mobile display device 13 like handphone before
being fired towards the target by rapid movement and pressure on a
sensor trigger embedded in the glove 110. A variety of designs
using fabrics and plastics to incorporate the electronic components
has been contemplated for the laser tag glove 110.
[0056] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the present invention also
provides toy laser tag sensor 15 capable of receiving IR beam of
light for use in a laser tag gaming. The sensor 15 will be
connected to mobile computer or handphone 13 via Bluetooth or WLAN
module. The laser tag sensor 15 are positioned appropriately on the
garments worn by the gamer, not excluding cap, shoulder, skeleton
battle order, belt to ensure that attacks made by laser tag sword
40, bow 80, glove 110 and spear 112 can be picked up. When the
sensor 15 registers a hit from the IR beam emitted by laser tag
sword 40, bow 80, glove 110 and spear 112, a string of data
modulated or encoded onto a carrier frequency is being registered
on the sensor 15 which is then transmitted via Bluetooth to the
mobile computer or handphone 13 to the server 19, and a sound file
to simulate that gamer has been hit, and a data string will be
passed to the server 19 indicating who the shooter is, so that the
server 19 will register the hit for the shooter, and a sound file
will be played at the shooter to indicate a successful hit. There
is an ON/OFF switch 32 and a UR 33 switch to allow the firmware to
establish connection via Bluetooth or WLAN to the handphone 13 that
operates on IOS or Android. LED light will flash at the plastic
casing 31 if it registers a hit from the shooter. The casing 31 can
be adhered with a Velcro or sticky tape 36 that can be stuck to
clothing, arm belt or wrist belt. Embedded within the sensor 15 are
battery, wireless module (e.g. Bluetooth or WLAN), IR receiver,
vibration motor and microprocessor. A variety of size, material,
design and number of IR receivers have also been contemplated for
the laser tag sensor 15, including incorporating the electronic
components into belt, glove and wearable vest to fulfil the same
function as a laser tag sensor 15.
[0057] The present invention further relates to a toy laser tag
shield 60 mounted with a number of laser tag sensors capable of
receiving IR beam of light for use in a laser tag gaming. The
sensors will be connected to mobile computer or handphone via
Bluetooth or WLAN module. The laser tag sensors mounted on the
laser tag shield are spaced appropriately to ensure that attacks
made by a laser tag sword, bow and spear can be picked up. When the
sensor registers a hit from the IR beam emitted by laser tag sword
40, bow 80, glove 110 and spear 112, a string of data modulated or
encoded onto a carrier frequency is being registered on the sensor
which is then transmitted via Bluetooth to the mobile computer or
handphone 13 to the server, and a sound file to simulate that the
directed attack is being blocked. A variety of size, material,
design and number of sensors have also been contemplated for the
laser tag shields.
[0058] The present invention also relates to software or apps in a
mobile computer display, which can be a personal computer,
notebook, tablet, handphone, smart watch, smart glasses etc.
capable of exchanging information to and fro the laser tag sword
40, bow 80, sword 112, glove 110, shield 60, sensor 15 and gun 120
via Bluetooth or WLAN modules. The current Bluetooth protocol
allows up to a maximum of seven slaves per master device; the
mobile device 13 using the software or apps is the Master with the
laser tag sword 40, bow 80, glove 110, shield 112, sensor 15 and
gun 120 as Slaves. Command can be issued by the software or apps by
changing the information stored in the laser tag sword 40, bow 80,
sword 112, glove 80, shield 60, sensor 15 and gun 120, and hence
allowing them to response to the transmitted information via the
firmware. In accordance with the present invention, the software or
apps allows the erection of shield 60 and in doing so, the sensor
15 connected to the mobile computer 13 will be switched off
momentarily, so that no hit can be registered during that period.
The software or apps allows the switching of the types of weapons
from laser tag sword 40 to gun 120 and vice versa, and the firing
modes of the IR beams that will directly affect the rate of firing
of the IR beams and the power associated with the firings can be
changed via transmitted data string from the mobile display device
13.
[0059] The software or apps in accordance with the present
invention allows the users to see the locations of each other using
the GPS inside their mobile display devices 13 such as the
handphones, and the distance and bearings between each other will
be known. Graphical user interface of the software or apps allows
the players to launch missiles, artillery, satellite laser beams,
sorcery lightning strikes and rocks onto each other to register
hits, and players are able to erect their shields 60 to neutralize
the hits coming in. Appropriate sound files will be played on the
mobile display device 13 of the launched weapons and also for those
being targeted if there is a near miss or a hit. Graphical user
interface of the software or apps allows simulated aircraft or UFOs
to hunt for target. Appropriate vibration and sound files are
played on mobile display device like handphone to simulate the
flight of the aircraft or UFOs, when they fly over the players.
[0060] In FIG. 10, there is shown another preferred embodiment of
the present invention to provide a tag play screen 90 that
comprises lined rows and columns of integrated IR receivers and IR
emitters embedded light dependent resistors. The tag play screen 90
is connected via Bluetooth or WLAN to a mobile display device 13,
which runs a software or apps to enable the screen to become alive.
The tag play screen 90 is able to emit and receive IR beams. The
screen 90 on the mobile display device 13 is being projected via
any projector 92 onto the tag play screen 90 in a dimly lighted
room. During activation of the tag play screen 90, a white screen
is projected onto the tag play screen 90 to identify the active IR
sensors and IR emitters. The IR receivers and IR emitters are
activated based on the change in the resistance of the embedded
light dependent resistors. The rows and columns of the active IR
receivers and IR emitters are matched to the corresponding screen
size of the graphic created for the laser tag gaming. For this
reason, the projected screen from the projector 92 cannot be larger
than the tag play screen 90. Embedded within the tag play screen 90
is electrical plug, port for direct connection to mobile computer,
wireless module (e.g. Bluetooth or WLAN), IR transmitters, IR
receivers, light dependent resistors and microprocessor. In the
present invention the materials used to embed the IR sensors and IR
emitters in the tag play screen 90 are IR absorbents, serve to
minimise the bouncing of the IR beams in the room. The room is thus
preferred to be air-conditioned to cool down the heat generated
from the absorption of these IR beams. The strength of the IR beams
is also calibrated via the use of software or apps to minimise
bouncing of the IR beams in the room.
[0061] The present invention further relates to software or apps in
a mobile display device 13 that is connected to the tag play screen
90. The server-based software or apps generate and display
computer-animated figures 94, which serve as targets to be fired on
using the toy laser tag weapons. The emitted IR beams from the toy
laser tag weapons register hit on the IR receivers embedded the
screen generating a score via the server based software. Hits will
be registered when the IR receivers being projected with the
animated figures 94 are hit by the IR beams, and the animated
figures 94 will vaporize into bits or otherwise depending on the
scenario being played. In another example, the computer-animated
figures 94 can be replaced by a falling rock, which can be sliced
into pieces using the toy laser tag sword 40. In another example,
computer-animated figures 94 can attack the players by firing their
weapons or throwing a spear 112 or spraying balls of fires or
electrical shocks on to the players. The attacking action will
translate into emission of IR beams by the IR emitters from the tag
play screen 90 towards the players in a pre-programmed logarithm to
maximize the chance of hitting the players. Appropriate vibrations
and sound files will be played on the mobile computers 13
throughout the play.
[0062] In accordance with the present invention, there is provided
a method for providing an interactive game, the method comprising
the steps of: providing each play participant with a toy laser tag
weapon capable of transmitting an IR beam of light through an
infrared lens and a mobile display device 13; monitoring the
location of opponents indicated on the mobile display device 13;
waving the weapon directed at the opponent to shoot IR beams at the
opponent; and firing the weapon onto an on-sight opponent with the
toy laser weapon by triggering a button or a trigger 11 on the
weapon; wherein firing by pressing a trigger 11 provided on the
weapon triggers a command to the mobile display device 13 to play a
sound file downloaded from the server 19 to simulate the
appropriate sound and LED light flashes at the lens, indicating
that shooter has been triggered.
[0063] The present invention also provides an interactive laser tag
system for entertaining multiple play participants comprising: toy
laser weapons for each of the players, capable of transmitting and
detecting an IR beam of light for use in a game; a wireless module
or data communication linked to communicate with software or apps
on a mobile display device 13 loaded with web-based software; a
server for the login of the player of the game; a Global
Positioning System (GPS) use for providing locations of the
players, of which the GPS data are made available to the players;
and tag play screen comprising a plurality of lined rows and
columns of integrated IR receivers and IR emitters with light
dependent resistors with embedded light dependent resistor, wherein
the tag play screen is connected via Bluetooth or WLAN to the
mobile display device 13, wherein the web-based software operating
on the mobile display device 13 calculates and determines hit by a
player being registered, and plays a sound and visual effects of
the toy laser weapons on the mobile display device 13, and
generates a Graphical User Interface that displayable on the mobile
display device 13 kept with the players so as to enhance the
effects of the game.
[0064] The present invention is a method for providing an
interactive game, the method comprising the steps of: providing
each play participant with a toy laser tag weapon capable of
transmitting an IR beam of light through an infrared lens and a
mobile display device; connecting a tag play screen to the mobile
display device that registers the player at the same serve on the
same game via Bluetooth or WLAN; activating the tag play screen by
choosing a computer-animated figures provided by mythical theme to
fight against; waving the weapon directed at the figures on the tag
play screen and firing the weapon onto the figures with the toy
laser weapon by triggering a button or a trigger on the weapon;
wherein firing by pressing a trigger provided on the weapon
triggers a command to the mobile display device to play a sound
file downloaded from the server to simulate the appropriate sound
and LED light flashes at the lens, indicating that shooter has been
triggered.
[0065] As shown in FIG. 12, there is shown the method of the
interactive game in accordance with the present invention. At a
distance not visually in sight, players use maps displaying on the
mobile display device 13 to check the locations of the opponents
(300). The software on the mobile display device 13 is used, the
player score points by attacking the opponent while defending
against attacks using gaming buttons displayed on the mobile
display device 13. (310). At a visual distance, the players use the
weapons to shoot IR beams and virtual arrows or bomb to score
points against opponents while defending using the shields (320).
At distance less than 3-5 meters, players use the swords to beam IR
beams that result deadly blow (330).
[0066] Referring to FIG. 13, there is shown a flowchart showing the
process of the interactive game. When a player A presses a trigger
11 of a weapon and shoots IR beam (200), the software operating on
a mobile display device 13 paired with the weapon to play a sound
file and sends a message to the server (205). At the same time, the
receiver of Player B has received an IR beam from player A (210).
Then, the software operating on the mobile display device 13 paired
with the weapon plays a sound file, and sends a message to the
server (220). The software operating on the serves updates the
score of the scorer: player A and updates the record of player B
who has been hit. (230).
[0067] In a preferred embodiment in accordance with the present
invention, the players are divided into two teams and each player
of the game is provided with a handphone 13 connected to a toy
laser tag gun 120, a shield 60 and a sword 40. All the players are
first login to the server 19 to play the same game. In the
beginning of the game, all the players of each team could watch the
players of the other team move into the action via the mobile
display device 13. Each player uses the graphical user interface to
shoot killer laser beam from satellite laser stations in space. In
this game, the killer laser beam emitted down towards the player
will have to start at a spot marked by each player, and the number
of killer laser beams for each player is limited. The player being
attacked is given an early warning which can be heard by the
players that the killer laser beam tears through the ground. The
players can protect themselves by setting up a protective energy
field. When the players of two teams get nearer to each other, the
player will not likely to use the killer laser beam since the beam
may also hurt the player themselves. The players would start to use
their laser tag guns 120 to tag each other and use their toy
shields 60 to protect themselves. At close combating, the players
use their toy laser tag sword 40 to deal effective blows and kill
each other in the game.
[0068] In combating game, each player can use the graphical user
interface to target each other by flying killer drones over each
other and dropping bombs over or target missiles on each other. In
the present preferred embodiment, the bombs or missiles launched
from the killer drones are controlled by the player using the
graphical user interface of the handphone 13. The number of bombs
or missiles for each player is limited. Similarly, players being
attacked are given an early warning and the players can hear the
killer drones flying, and the players can protect themselves by
setting up a protective magnetic force field to deflect the
shrapnel from the bombs or missiles. In other preferred
embodiments, the killer drones can be replaced by fighter
helicopters or aircraft where the players can use them to attack
each in an air fight, apart from the attacking the players.
Subsequently, when they get nearer, the players are not likely use
the killer drones or fighter helicopters or aircraft since these
devices can hurt them too.
[0069] In examples for tag play screen 90, the player is provided
with a handphone 13 connected to toy laser tag spear 112, bow 80,
glove 110, shield 60 and sword 40. The tag play screen 90 is
connected to a mobile display device 13 that registers the player
at the same server 19 on the same game. In this game, the tag play
screen 90 is activated and mythical theme provides various
computer-animated figures 94 and the player can choose to fight
against the chosen computer animated figures 94 including ninja,
dragon, monsters, robots, dinosaurs, mythical creatures and alien
creatures. Assuming that the players chose a dragon, when the game
starts, tag play screen 90 shows the scene moving to simulate
player walking across a path in the hills and from afar the players
see dragon at a distance flying in the air. If the players have a
weapon which is too far to engage the dragon, the words, out of
range, appear if the players try to tag it. The players use the
graphic on handphone 13 to enhance the range of weapons by using
limited sorcery powder given by a sorcerer to ensure that they
engage the dragon. The players use the graphical user interface on
handphone 13 to use sorcery powder to set up a temporarily
protective field. As the players get nearer, the dragon starts to
throw rocks at the players. The players need to use the shield 60
to protect them from injuries by the rock. As the rock rolls and
dives towards the players, the players need to use the shield 60 to
block the attacking. The size of the rock grows and when the rock
reaches a certain size, the IR emitters are to tag the players or
the players can move away from the computer-animated rock. The
dragon which has been tagged by toy laser tag spear 112 or bow 80
will vaporize. The rocks can also be vaporized if the rocks are
sliced by the toy laser sword 40, glove 110 or bow 80. There will
be a symbol to indicate which weapons could be used on which target
based on the distance. The dragon at close range throws fire out
from the mouth on the players. The players can dodge by moving away
based on the direction of the fire. The player can use shield 60 to
protect against the fire and can use the toy laser tag sword 40 or
bow 80 to destroy the dragon. Each of the attacking action will
coincide with the emission of the IR beams by computer selected IR
emitters on the tag play screen 90 in line with the action of the
computer-animation 94. The game play involving the use of the tag
play screen 90 can be played by single player as well as multiple
players.
[0070] In another preferred embodiment of tag play screen, the
player has a handphone 13 connected to toy laser tag gun 120 and
sword 40. The tag play screen 90 is connected to a mobile display
device 13 that registers the players at the same server 19 on the
same game. In the beginning of the laser tag gaming, the tag play
screen 90 is activated and theme provides various animated figures
player can choose to fight against, for instance, the player
chooses the urban warriors. When the game starts, tag play screen
90 shows the scene moving to simulate player walking across a path
to set up a position to take up sniper position. Then, the sound
files in the server 19 plays to explain that enemies are coming
close and players see fire fights commencing. The players start to
see enemy forces approaching as engagement starts. The fights goes
into the night, the players use the graphical user interface on
handphone 13 to do a night vision goggle (NVG) and the graphics
change on screen to NVG. In this game, illumination rounds can be
used by using the graphical user interface on handphone 13. At
close range, the players use the laser tag sword 40 to kill the
invading urban warriors. When the players run out of rounds in
their magazines and require loading magazine, the player uses the
graphical user interface on handphone 13 to take cover when
artillery shells are falling or RPG rockets or grenades are being
hurled at the position of the players. Each of the attacking action
coincides with the emission of the IR beams by computer selected IR
emitters on the tag play screen in line with the action of the
computer-animation 94.
[0071] In the present invention, the game play permits laser tag
players to start the game play even at a distance away from each
other using the software via mobile device display 13, and the play
allows a player to kill the opponent with a single blow at close
proximity through use of tag sword 40.
[0072] The pressing of the trigger 11 also initiates a command to
the mobile display device 13 or handphone 13 to play a sound file
to simulate the appropriate sound produced by an attacking sword. A
variety of the range and burst rate of the IR beams controlled via
the use of mobile display device 13 or handphone 13 through a
dedicated Graphical User interface have been contemplated to
simulate the power of the gun 120.
[0073] As shown in the preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the player has a handphone 13 connected to toy laser gun
120 in the form of tag glove 110. The tag play screen 90 is
connected to a mobile display device or computer 13 that registers
the player at the same server 19 on the same game. In the beginning
of the laser tag gaming, the tag play screen 90 is activated and
theme provides various animated figures 94 player can choose to
fight against. The player chooses one of the characters, for
example, ninja warrior. When the game starts, tag play screen 90
shows the scene moving to simulate player walking in a jungle task
to save a kidnapped feudal lord. Once set, sound files will play to
explain that enemies know that player is coming to save the
kidnapped feudal lord, and there are ninja lightning strikes and
fire balls being hurled at the player to ensure player quickly move
away from their physical static position. The player uses ninja
skill to shoot energy shield to destroy the missiles and bombs by
firing spurts of laser beams. The player also uses the graphical
user interface on handphone 13 to convert the firing spurts of
laser beams to a continuous laser sword 40 or laser ball, for
example. When the game starts, tag play screen 90 shows the scene
moving to simulate player performing ninja movement from one tree
to another to move to the house where the kidnapped feudal lord is
being held captive, and along the way the player needs to fend off
attacks from enemy ninja by destroying them using ninja jutsu,
knives, spikes, and sword through the use of laser tag glove. In
the game, each of the attacking action will coincide with the
emission of the IR beams by computer selected IR emitters on the
tag play screen in line with the action of the computer-animation
94. The setting can permit more than 1 players fighting alongside
each other.
[0074] In the tagging game of the present invention, the IR beam is
directed simultaneously at more than one receiver attached to the
body of the player with accuracy, such that the players are
compelled to physically move around rather than just through the
movement of a handheld game controller. Further, in the present
interactive laser tag system for entertaining multiple play
participants, the software that initiates and activates the tag
screen is self calibrated to minimise rebounding of the IR beams,
and similarly, the weapons used together with the tag play screen
90 is self calibrated through the software to ensure that IR
rebounding off the area of play is minimised.
[0075] Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of
certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood
by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends
beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative
embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications
and equivalents thereof. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the
present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the
particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be
determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.
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