U.S. patent application number 14/691412 was filed with the patent office on 2016-08-11 for wireless communication system for game play with multiple remote control flying craft.
The applicant listed for this patent is QFO Labs, Inc.. Invention is credited to John Paul Condon, James Edward Fairman, Bradley Dean Pedersen.
Application Number | 20160228764 14/691412 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50435481 |
Filed Date | 2016-08-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160228764 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
Condon; John Paul ; et
al. |
August 11, 2016 |
WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR GAME PLAY WITH MULTIPLE REMOTE
CONTROL FLYING CRAFT
Abstract
A gaming system for enabling three-dimensional game play of
remote-control craft controlled by a controller, each craft
including a communication system with both radio frequency (RF) and
infrared (IR) capabilities. The system can include a plurality of
hovering remote-control flying craft each controlled by a handheld
controller, and further may include at least one additional game
accessory elements, such as a puck, a ground station or a gun. Each
pairing of craft and controllers communicate via an RF protocol
that transmits at least control communications between the
controller and the craft based on pair identification information
in an RF communication protocol. The craft and game-accessory
elements also communicate via at least an IR protocol that
communicates game-play information. Selectable pairs of craft and
controllers may be assigned to different teams for playing
multiplayer team games based on team identification information in
the RF communication protocol.
Inventors: |
Condon; John Paul;
(Minneapolis, MN) ; Fairman; James Edward;
(Bloomington, MN) ; Pedersen; Bradley Dean;
(Minneapolis, MN) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
QFO Labs, Inc. |
Bloomington |
MN |
US |
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Prior
Publication: |
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Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20150283459 A1 |
October 8, 2015 |
|
|
Family ID: |
50435481 |
Appl. No.: |
14/691412 |
Filed: |
April 20, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13843490 |
Mar 15, 2013 |
9011250 |
|
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14691412 |
|
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61710671 |
Oct 5, 2012 |
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61710665 |
Oct 5, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63H 27/12 20130101;
F21L 4/027 20130101; A63H 13/00 20130101; A63F 13/00 20130101; B64C
2203/00 20130101; A63F 13/837 20140902; G05D 1/0033 20130101; A63H
33/26 20130101; A63H 2200/00 20130101; A63H 30/04 20130101; A63F
13/245 20140902; B64C 2201/042 20130101; F41G 1/36 20130101; A63F
13/235 20140902; B64C 2201/027 20130101; B64C 2201/146 20130101;
A63H 17/00 20130101; F21V 23/0435 20130101; A63H 27/00 20130101;
A63H 17/32 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63F 13/235 20060101
A63F013/235; A63F 13/837 20060101 A63F013/837; A63F 13/245 20060101
A63F013/245 |
Claims
1. A three-dimensional gaming system that enables game play among
remote-control craft, the gaming system comprising: a game-control
application configured to execute on a computing device having a
radio-frequency (RF) communication channel for accessing an RF
communication protocol, the game-control application being
programmed to dynamically display information from the gaming
system related to the multiplayer team games; at least four
remote-control craft and at least four controllers, each craft
selectively uniquely paired with and controlled by a different
corresponding one of the at least four controllers via the RF
communication protocol implemented between the corresponding
controller and the remote-control craft that transmits at least
craft control communications between a particular selectable pair
of the controller and the remote-control craft based on a pair
identification information contained in the RF communication
protocol; each of the at least four controllers operative to
control game-play information among at least the remote-control
craft and the game-control application via a communication protocol
implemented via a transmitter and receiver on the corresponding
remote-control craft, wherein at least two sets of at least two of
the particular selectable pairs are also selectively assigned to a
different one of a plurality of teams for purposes of playing
multiplayer team games based on a team identification information
in the RF communication protocol.
2. The gaming system of claim 1, further comprising: at least one
additional game accessory element that is equipped with an infrared
transmitter and receiver to communicate via the IR communication
protocol with at least one of the remote-control craft.
3. The gaming system of claim 2, wherein the at least one
additional accessory element is further equipped to transmit
communications via the RF communication protocol.
4. The gaming system of claim 2, wherein the at least one
additional accessory element is selected from the set consisting of
a target puck, a reloading station, or any combination thereof.
5. The gaming system of claim 2, wherein the remote-control craft
are flying craft and the accessory elements are non-flying
objects.
6. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein the remote control craft
are flying hovering craft and the controllers are handheld
controllers that are configured to communicate at least some
control signals via the RF communication protocol in response to
sensed orientation of the handheld controller.
7. The gaming system of claim 2, wherein the RF communication
channel is a short-range wireless radio-frequency communication
channel between the computing device and at least one accessory
element.
8. The gaming system of claim 2, wherein the RF communication
channel is RF communication circuitry on a USB dongle configured to
utilize the RF communication protocol.
9. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein the remote-control craft
and the controllers each include at least one multi-color LED
configured to display a common selectable color that is the same
for both the craft and the controller of the particular selectable
pair and indicates the team to which the particular selectable pair
of the craft and controller are assigned for purposes of playing
multiplayer team games.
10. The gaming system of claim 9, wherein the multiplayer team
games are selected from the set of: Domination, Capture the Flag,
Capture the Team, Elimination, King of the Hill and a game in which
a plurality of users control their respective remote-control craft
to chase and shoot at a designated target remote-control craft, and
wherein the LED on the remote-control craft and the controllers is
utilized to display game play information to users for the
multiplayer team game.
11. The gaming system of claim 1, further comprising a
battery-powered handheld gun that includes at least an infrared
transmitter configured to communicate game play information to at
least the remote control craft via the infrared (IR) communication
protocol.
12. A method for implementing a three-dimensional gaming system
that enables game play among remote-control craft, the method
comprising: executing a game-control application on a computing
device having a radio-frequency (RF) communication channel for
accessing an RF communication protocol, the game-control
application being programmed to dynamically display information
from the gaming system related to the multiplayer team games; using
at least one of a plurality of four controllers, selectively
uniquely pairing, at least in part via a computing device processor
and computing device memory that are located in the at least one of
the plurality of four controllers, each of at least four
remote-control craft with a different particular respective one of
the plurality of four controllers via a radio-frequency (RF)
communication protocol implemented between the corresponding
respective controller and its respective remote-control craft based
on a pair identification information contained in the RF
communication protocol; selectively assigning at least two sets of
the particular selectable pairs of the controller and the
remote-control craft to a different one of a plurality of teams for
purposes of playing multiplayer team games based on a team
identification information in the RF communication protocol; using
the corresponding controller of the particular selectable pair of
the controller and the remote-control craft to communicate at least
craft control communications and game-play information between the
particular selectable pair via the RF communication protocol, the
game-play information including control information based on
activations of a trigger mechanism on the controller; and using
circuitry of the corresponding remote-control craft of the
particular selectable pair of the controller and the remote-control
craft to use the game-play information, the pair identification
information and the team identification information in controlling
and communicating game-play information among the remote-control
craft via a communication protocol implemented via a transmitter
and receiver on the corresponding remote-control craft.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the remote-control craft are
flying hovering craft and the controllers are handheld controllers
that are configured to communicate at least some control signals
via the RF communication protocol in response to sensed orientation
of the handheld controller.
14. The method of claim 12, further comprising providing at least
one additional game accessory element that is equipped with an
infrared transmitter and receiver to communicate via the IR
communication protocol with at least a selected set of the
remote-control craft.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the at least one additional
accessory element further transmits communications via the RF
communication protocol with at least the selected set of the
remote-control craft.
16. The method of claim 12, further comprising providing a game
control application configured to execute on a computing device
having an RF communication channel for accessing the RF
communication protocol, the game-control application being
programmed to dynamically display information from the gaming
system related to the multiplayer team games.
17. The method of claim 12, wherein the remote control craft and
the controllers each include at least one multi-color LED, and the
method further comprises configuring the LED to display a common
selectable color that is the same for both the craft and the
controller of the particular selectable pair and indicates the team
to which the particular selectable pair of the craft and controller
are assigned for purposes of playing multiplayer team games.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein the multiplayer team games are
selected from the set of: Domination, Capture the Flag, Capture the
Team, Elimination, King of the Hill and a game in which a plurality
of users control their respective remote-control craft to chase and
shoot at a designated target remote-control craft, and wherein
configuring the LED on the remote control craft and the controllers
includes utilizing the LED to display game play information to
users for the multiplayer team game.
19. The method of claim 17, further comprising providing a
battery-powered handheld gun that includes at least an infrared
transmitter and is configured to communicate game play information
to at least the remote control craft via the infrared (IR)
communication protocol.
20. A non-transitory computer readable medium having instructions
stored thereon for executing a method for implementing a
three-dimensional gaming system that enables game play among
remote-control craft, the medium comprising: a game-control
application on a computing device having a radio-frequency (RF)
communication channel for accessing an RF communication protocol,
the game-control application being programmed to dynamically
display information from the gaming system related to the
multiplayer team games; instructions for executing the game-control
application; instructions for executing selectively uniquely
pairing, at least in part via a computing device processor and
computing device memory that are located in the at least one of the
plurality of four controllers, each of at least four remote-control
craft with a different particular respective one of the plurality
of four controllers via a radio-frequency (RF) communication
protocol implemented between the corresponding respective
controller and its respective remote-control craft based on a pair
identification information contained in the RF communication
protocol; instructions for executing selectively assigning at least
two sets of the particular selectable pairs of the controller and
the remote-control craft to a different one of a plurality of teams
for purposes of playing multiplayer team games based on a team
identification information in the RF communication protocol;
instructions for communicating at least craft control
communications and game-play information between the particular
selectable pair via the RF communication protocol, the game-play
information including control information based on activations of a
trigger mechanism on the controller; and instructions for
controlling circuitry of the corresponding remote-control craft of
the particular selectable pair of the controller and the
remote-control craft to use the game-play information, the pair
identification information and the team identification information
in controlling and communicating game-play information among the
remote-control craft via a communication protocol implemented via a
transmitter and receiver on the corresponding remote-control craft.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/843,490 filed Mar. 15, 2013, titled
"WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR GAME PLAY WITH MULTIPLE REMOTE
CONTROL FLYING CRAFT" (to issue as U.S. Pat. No. 9,011,250 on Apr.
21, 2015), which claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/710,671 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application
No. 61/710,665, both filed Oct. 5, 2012; each of these applications
is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
[0002] This invention is also related to prior U.S. Design patent
application Ser. No. 29/433,939 filed Oct. 5, 2012, titled
"Single-Handed Controller for a Remote Control Flying Craft" (which
issued as U.S. Design Pat. D691,217 on Oct. 8, 2013); and to U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 13/842,525, filed on Mar. 15, 2013 by
John Paul Condon et al., titled "Remote-Control Flying Copter and
Method" (which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,004,973 on Apr. 14, 2015);
each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The invention relates generally to the field of
heavier-than-air aeronautical vehicles that are sustained in air by
the force of a fluid such as air. More particularly, the present
invention relates to a wireless communication system that can
support game play among multiple remote-control flying craft.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Remote-control flying vehicles are becoming increasingly
popular and sophisticated. While larger craft such as military and
civilian drone aircraft have been in use for only the last two
decades, smaller radio-controlled flying vehicles built and flown
by hobbyists have been around for much longer. Generally,
remote-control flying vehicles are either fixed wing, like a plane,
or hovering, like a helicopter or quadcopter.
[0005] One example of a small, hovering type craft is described in
U.S. Pat. No. 7,931,239, titled "Homeostatic Flying Hovercraft,"
incorporated herein by reference, which describes the use of a
homeostatic hover control system in combination with a hand-held
controller to cause the craft to mimic the orientation of the
controller in terms of yaw, pitch, roll, and lateral flight
maneuvers. Another example of a quadcopter is the Parrot AR Drone
that utilizes a Wi-Fi connection between the quadcopter and a smart
phone or tablet that serves as a tilt-based remote control. Still
another example is the Walkera QR Lady Bird mini-quadcopter that is
controlled via a conventional dual joystick remote control. These
kinds of electronically stabilized hovercraft or quadcopter designs
with three or more separate rotors are generally more stable and
easier to learn to fly than the single-shaft, dual counter-rotating
rotor, model helicopters that may use some form of mechanical gyro
stabilization. Like the Lady Bird mini-quadcopter, these
less-expensive single-shaft, dual counter-rotating rotor, model
helicopters are typically controlled via a conventional dual
joystick remote control.
[0006] Other types of control systems for remote control have also
been described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 8,200,375 (describes
spring-return control for RF controller for hovering-type remote
control craft), and U.S. Pat. No. 8,049,600 (describes spread
spectrum RF controller with force feedback for remote control
craft, each of which is incorporated herein by reference). While
these types of control systems address various issues with RF
communications, and can provide additional control feedback for a
user, none of these approaches have addressed control problems that
are unique to the implementation of multi-player, multi-team gaming
with remote control flying craft. Typically, the above-described
devices operate in a proprietary radio frequency (RF) protocol only
between the particular controller and the device it controls. It is
therefore difficult, if not impossible, to add additional devices.
Different frequency or protocol-enabled "A" version and "B"
versions must often be purchased.
[0007] There is need for a robust and fully-featured wireless
communication system that can support game play among multiple
remote-control flying craft, as well as other devices and
accessories that may be used as part of the game play.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] Embodiments of this invention relate to systems and methods
for enabling game play of remote-control flying craft controlled by
a controller, each craft including a wireless communication system
with both radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) capabilities. In
some embodiments, the system includes a plurality of hovering
remote-control flying craft each controlled by a handheld
controller, and further may include at least one additional
wireless-enabled non-flying game accessory element, such as a puck,
a ground station and/or a toy gun. In some embodiments, at least
all of the craft and controllers communicate via an RF protocol
that transmits at least control communications between a particular
pair of the controller and the remote-control flying craft based on
a pair identification information contained in the RF communication
protocol, and all of the craft and at least one of the additional
non-flying game-accessory elements also communicate via at least an
IR protocol that communicates game-play information among at least
the plurality of remote-control flying craft.
[0009] In various embodiments, at least each of the craft may
include a color-selectable LED to display a chosen team color. The
use of both RF and IR protocols and color-selectable LED displays
among the various elements of the game-play system enable support
of multi-player, multi-team gaming with the remote-control flying
craft. In some embodiments, the team color display is on the top
and/or bottom of the craft. In some embodiment, the team color is
displayed on the outer protective ring of the craft. In some
embodiments, the body of the craft is translucent and the team
color lights up the body of the craft. In some embodiments, other
methods of displaying the team colors are used. In some other
embodiments, one or more the above team-color display methods are
used.
[0010] In various embodiments, an RF protocol and/or IR protocol
are defined to enable the remote-control flying craft, and/or its
controller, to interface with other devices, controllers, or
accessories. For example, accessories can include a puck accessory,
a toy-gun accessory, or a tablet/laptop computer ground station.
Numerous flying games are then enabled; for example, Multi-Team Dog
Fighting, King of the Hill, Domination, Capture the Flag, Capture
the Team, Tag, Elimination, or the even a variation of the
Quidditch.RTM. game made popular by the Harry Potter series of
novels.
[0011] In some embodiments, the aforementioned games are integrated
with various staged simulated "damage" to the respective hovering
remote-control flying craft when hit by another IR transmission.
For example, upon first hit, the craft in some embodiments is
programmed to wobble in combination with a vibration sent through
the controller. Upon second hit, the craft in some embodiments is
programmed to have power and performance reduced. Upon third hit,
the craft in some embodiments is programmed for a forced landing
for a predetermined amount of time, for example, several
seconds--depending on the game play.
[0012] This description of the invention is not intended to
describe each illustrated embodiment or every implementation of the
present invention. The figures and the detailed description that
follow exemplify some embodiments of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] The invention may be more completely understood in
consideration of the following detailed description of some
embodiments of the invention in connection with the accompanying
drawings, in which:
[0014] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a gaming system for a hovering
remote-control flying craft and accessories, according to some
embodiments of the invention.
[0015] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a gaming system for the game
King of the Hill, according to some embodiments of the
invention.
[0016] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a gaming system for the game
Domination, according to some embodiments of the invention.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a gaming system for the game
Capture the Flag, according to some embodiments of the
invention.
[0018] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a gaming system for the game
Tag, according to some embodiments of the invention.
[0019] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a gaming system for the game
Elimination, according to some embodiments of the invention.
[0020] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a gaming system for a
one-on-one game of Quidditch.RTM., according to some embodiments of
the invention.
[0021] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a gaming system for a full game
of Quidditch.RTM., according to some embodiments of the
invention.
[0022] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a gaming system for the game
Duck Hunt, according to some embodiments of the invention.
[0023] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a gaming system according to
some embodiments of the invention that include a game-control
application configured to execute on a computing device.
[0024] FIG. 11 shows specification details for an embodiment of the
RF communication protocol included in the Team Selection state
engine.
[0025] While the invention is amenable to various modifications and
alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of
example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should
be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the
invention to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary,
the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and
alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention
as defined by the appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0026] Although the following detailed description contains many
specifics for the purpose of illustration, a person of ordinary
skill in the art will appreciate that many variations and
alterations to the following details are within the scope of the
invention. Accordingly, the following preferred embodiments of the
invention are set forth without any loss of generality to, and
without imposing limitations upon the claimed invention. Further,
In the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments,
reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part
hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration specific
embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is
understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural
changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0027] The leading digit(s) of reference numbers appearing in the
figures generally corresponds to the figure number in which that
component is first introduced, such that the same reference number
is used throughout to refer to an identical component which appears
in multiple figures. Signals and connections may be referred to by
the same reference number or label, and the actual meaning will be
clear from its use in the context of the description.
[0028] Referring to FIG. 1, a gaming system 100 can include a
remote-control flying craft 102, a controller 104 for
remote-control flying craft 102, and non-flying game accessories,
such as a puck 106, a toy "gun" 108, and a ground station 110. In
embodiments, systems can include fewer or additional individual
non-flying game accessories than those depicted in FIG. 1. For
example, a plurality of pucks 106 can be used in a particular game.
In other embodiments, a plurality of toy guns 108 can be used. In
other embodiments, a plurality of ground stations 110 can be used,
and so on.
[0029] In some embodiments, remote-control flying craft 102 is a
hovering flying craft adapted to be controlled by a handheld remote
controller 104, and comprises, in an embodiment, a molded frame
assembly that includes a plurality of arms extending from a center
body with an electric motor and corresponding propeller on each
arm. In various embodiments, the motor and propeller are mounted
downward-facing at a distal end of each arm with a motor cover over
the motor. The center body in some embodiments is formed of a
two-piece structure that sandwiches a circuit board to provide
structural support for the frame. The circuit board in some
embodiments includes a plurality of tabs that facilitate mounting
of wire connectors, and can also provide antennas and emitters for
both IR and RF communications. In some embodiments, a removable
safety ring protects the propellers from lateral contact by an
outer ring supported by a plurality of Y-arms that are each adapted
to correspond to and interface with a corresponding one of the
plurality of arms. Further, hovering remote-control flying craft
102 comprises a light-emitting diode (LED) or other semiconductor
light source for lighting hovering remote-control flying craft
102.
[0030] Controller 104, in an embodiment, is a single-handed
controller to be used by a user for controlling hovering
remote-control flying craft 102, the controller comprising a
controller body having an angled shape and including a flat top
surface for orientation reference of the controller, a trigger
projecting from the controller body adapted to interface with a
forefinger of the user, a top hat projecting from the flat top
surface adapted to interface with a thumb of the user, and
electronics including at least one gyroscope, at least one
accelerometer, a processor for sampling data from the at least one
gyroscope and at least one accelerometer, and a radio adapted to
transmit the sampled data to the hovering remote-control flying
craft 102. Embodiments also include an infrared (IR) receiver and
an infrared transmitter, or an infrared transceiver, in
embodiments. As described, the triggering mechanism can be used
during game play similar to gun 108 instead of, or in addition to,
gun 108. Further, controller 104 comprises a light-emitting diode
(LED) or other semiconductor light source for lighting controller
104 similar to craft 102.
[0031] For a more detailed description of one embodiment of the
craft 102 and controller 104, reference is made to U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/842,525, filed on Mar. 15, 2013 by John
Paul Condon et al., titled "Remote-Control Flying Copter and
Method," the detailed specification and figures of which are hereby
incorporated by reference. While embodiments of the present
invention are described with respect to a small, hovering
remote-control craft in wireless communication with a paired
wireless controller configured for single-handed tilt-control
operations, it will be understood that other embodiments of the
communications system for game play in accordance with the present
invention may include other types of remote-control flying craft,
such as planes or helicopters, or other non-flying remote-control
craft, such as cars or boats, and may also include other types of
controllers, such as a conventional dual joystick controller or a
tilt-control based on an "app" (i.e., an application) running on a
Smartphone or a software programming running on a laptop or desktop
computer.
[0032] In various embodiments, puck 106 comprises a structure
adapted to interface with land having a body and an infrared
receiver. The body of puck 106 can be cube-shaped, in an
embodiment. In other embodiments, the body can be a rectangular
prism, a triangle-based prism, sphere-shaped, or any other desired
shape. In embodiments, puck 106, and specifically, the infrared
receiver, is adapted to receive infrared transmissions from a
corresponding transmitter on, for example, hovering remote-control
flying craft 102, controller 104, or gun 108. Puck 106 therefore
comprises a "passive" non-flying game accessory. In various
embodiments, puck 106 further comprises an infrared transmitter for
transmitting infrared signals to hovering remote-control flying
craft 102, controller 104, or gun 108, as well ground station 110.
Embodiments of puck 106 therefore comprise an "active" non-flying
game accessory.
[0033] In some embodiments, puck 106 comprises RF capability in
addition to infrared capability. For example, puck 106 can further
comprise an RF radio. In other embodiments, puck 106 can utilize
the RF capability to interpret proximity of hovering remote-control
flying craft 102 to puck 106. In game play, ammunition reloading,
health recharging, capture, or race pylons, can thereby be
utilized. In embodiments, puck 106 comprises an LED or other
semiconductor light source for lighting puck 106.
[0034] In some embodiments, gun 108 comprises a handle, a barrel, a
trigger projecting from the handle or barrel adapted to interface
with a forefinger of the user, and an IR transmitter having IR
transmission capability. When the trigger is activated, an IR
transmission is sent out of the general direction of the barrel. In
some embodiments, the IR transmission is substantially directional
to enable the targeting of a particular target. In some
embodiments, gun 108 further comprises an infrared receiver adapted
to receive infrared transmissions from a corresponding transmitter.
In an embodiment, gun 108 further comprises a low-power laser sight
to enable the user to take aim at a particular target and show
where the gun 108 is aimed. In another embodiment, gun 108
comprises RF capability in addition to infrared capability. For
example, gun 106 can further comprise an RF radio.
[0035] In some embodiments, ground station 110 comprises, a tablet
having a processor, communication capability, and a display. The
processor, in combination with the communication capability can
switch system 100 between games. For example, a different "game
app" can be loaded into hovering remote-control flying craft 102,
controller 104, puck 106, and/or gun 108 and likewise configure
these components for the desired game. Therefore, communication
capability can comprise RF protocols, IR protocols, or any other
suitable wired or wireless protocol and can include one-way and/or
two-way communication. The display can present game scores or
statistics, or a current game status, including for each of the
hovering remote-control flying craft 102, controllers 104, or
accessories. In another embodiment, ground station 110, as depicted
in FIG. 1, comprises a laptop computer having a processor,
communication capability, and a display.
[0036] In embodiments, puck 106 can be utilized as a relay station
between one or more ground stations 110. For example, puck 106 can
further comprise a Bluetooth.RTM. radio configured to communicate
with a corresponding Bluetooth.RTM. radio of a ground station 110.
The radio in puck 106 may communicate with the ground station 110
in any of several protocols including Bluetooth, WiFi, Zigbee or a
proprietary protocol. In this way, game-play information can be
relayed to ground station 110 for analysis, display, or further
configuration, where desired, as described below with respect to
FIG. 10.
[0037] As shown in FIG. 1, the IR, RF, or other wired or wireless
communication between elements of system 100 is readily recognized.
The communication links are illustrative only, and are in no way
limiting to the possibilities of the system 100. For example,
hovering remote-control flying craft 102 can transmit IR signals to
puck 106 in order to "shoot" puck 106 during flight or operation of
hovering remote-control flying craft 102. Controller 104 can
transmit RF signals to hovering remote-control flying craft 102 to
control the flight of hovering remote-control flying craft 102.
Further, the trigger of controller 104 can be relayed to hovering
remote-control flying craft 102 via RF communication to indicate
that hovering remote-control flying craft 102 should transmit IR
signals as described to "shoot" from hovering remote-control flying
craft 102. In other embodiments, gun 108 can transmit IR signals to
hovering remote-control flying craft 102 so that hovering
remote-control flying craft 102 is "shot" by gun 108. In
embodiments, as described with respect to ground station 110,
hovering remote-control flying craft 102 and controller 104 can be
configured by accessory ground station 110 via wired or wireless
protocol to enable various games. Likewise, accessories puck 106
and gun 108 can be configured by ground station 110 via wired or
wireless protocol to enable various games, in coordination with
hovering remote-control flying craft 102 and controller 104. All of
these capabilities enable aerial game play, as will be described in
examples that follow.
[0038] In terms of the RF and IR communications protocol, in
various embodiments at least all of the craft and controllers
communicate via a RF protocol that transmits at least control
communications between a particular pair of the controller and the
remote-control flying craft based on a pair identification
information contained in the RF communication protocol, and all of
the craft and at least one of the additional non-flying game
accessory elements also communicate via at least an IR protocol
that communicates game-play information among at least the
plurality of remote-control flying craft. The below-mentioned games
and communication systems, as well as others, can be implemented
via one embodiment of the RF and IR communication protocols.
[0039] King of the Hill
[0040] In the traditional game of King of the Hill, the object is
to stay on top of a "hill" (or any other designated area) as the
"King of the Hill." Other players attempt to knock the current King
off the pile and take his place, thus becoming the new King of the
Hill. Wikipedia, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/King_of_the_Hill_(game),
(last visited Oct. 1, 2012).
[0041] Referring to FIG. 2, a block diagram of a gaming system 200
for a two-team version of the game King of the Hill is depicted.
System 200 comprises a first hovering remote-control flying craft
202A and a second hovering remote-control flying craft 202B, and a
puck 206. First hovering remote-control flying craft 202A and
second hovering remote-control flying craft 202B are on opposite
teams, Team A and Team B, respectively. First hovering
remote-control flying craft 202A and second hovering remote-control
flying craft 202B are substantially similar to hovering
remote-control flying craft 102, but are referred to here by 202A
and 202B, respectively, for ease of explanation. First hovering
remote-control flying craft 202A is controlled by a controller (not
shown) configured to interface with hovering remote-control flying
craft 202A. Likewise, second hovering remote-control flying craft
202B is controlled by a controller (not shown) configured to
interface with hovering remote-control flying craft 202B. Each of
hovering remote-control flying craft 202A and 202B can be lit by
their respective LEDs in a different color, denoting the teams.
[0042] In system 200, puck 206 is substantially similar to puck
106. Puck 206 is the "hill." Control is gained of the "hill" by
hovering remote-control flying craft 202A or 202B being in close
proximity of puck 206 for a predefined number of seconds, or by
shooting puck 206 a predefined number of times. Strategy in
maneuvering the respective craft can be utilized in order to
protect puck 206 from the opposing team for as long as possible.
Points can be accumulated for either team according to the number
of seconds control of the "hill" is maintained. Puck 206 can be lit
via its LED to indicate the team of the current king. In
embodiments, ground station 110 (not shown) can display the current
king or other game status or statistics.
[0043] Additional craft (not shown) for each team can readily be
added to system 200. For example, both Team A and Team B can
comprise two craft each. In other embodiments, a plurality of craft
can be added to each team. In another embodiment, one team can play
handicapped with fewer craft than the other team. In other
embodiments, additional teams can be added to the game.
[0044] Domination
[0045] In the traditional game of Domination, whether on the
playground or as a board game, the idea is to gain all of the
players (by tagging them), or land mass (by occupying every
territory on the board and in so doing, eliminating all other
players).
[0046] Referring to FIG. 3, a block diagram of a gaming system for
a two-team version of the game Domination is depicted. System 300
comprises a first team, Team A, including a first hovering
remote-control flying craft 302A and a second hovering
remote-control flying craft 302A1. System 300 likewise comprises a
second team, Team B, including a third hovering remote-control
flying craft 302B and a fourth hovering remote-control flying craft
302B1. Craft 302A, 302A1 302B, and 302B1 are each substantially
similar to hovering remote-control flying craft 102.
[0047] The game begins with teams, here illustrated as two
teams--Team A and Team B. Craft 302A, 302A1 302B, and 302B1 are
controlled by their respective controllers (not shown) to "shoot,"
via IR transmission, an opponent's hovering remote-control flying
craft. Once the IR transmission is received by the opponent
hovering remote-control flying craft, the opponent switches to the
team of the shooter. The Domination game ends when all players are
on the same team. Each of hovering remote-control flying craft
302A, 302A1 302B, and 302B1 can be lit via their respective LED to
indicate the current team. The LEDs can change throughout the game,
indicating the current status of the teams.
[0048] For example, first hovering remote-control flying craft 302A
and second hovering remote-control flying craft 302A1 can be
illuminated red by their respective LED lights. Third hovering
remote-control flying craft 302B and fourth hovering remote-control
flying craft 302B1 can be illuminated blue by their respective LED
lights. As illustrated in FIG. 3, during game play, first hovering
remote-control flying craft 302A is instructed by the user
controlling first hovering remote-control flying craft 302A to
"shoot" at current opponent third hovering remote-control flying
craft 302B. Once third hovering remote-control flying craft 302B
receives the IR transmission, it switches to red and is then on
Team A. Similarly, fourth hovering remote-control flying craft
302B1 is instructed by the user controlling fourth hovering
remote-control flying craft 302B1 to "shoot" at current opponent
second hovering remote-control flying craft 302A1. Once second
hovering remote-control flying craft 302A1 receives the IR
transmission, it switches to blue and is then on Team B. In
embodiments, ground station 110 (not shown) can display the current
dominant team or other game status or statistics.
[0049] Additional craft (not shown) for each team can readily be
added to system 300. For example, both Team A and Team B can
comprise two craft each, as depicted. In other embodiments, teams
can comprise three or more craft. In another embodiment, one team
can begin play handicapped with fewer craft than the other team. In
other embodiments, additional teams can be added to the game.
[0050] Capture the Flag and Capture the Team
[0051] In the traditional game of Capture the Flag, two teams each
have a flag (or other marker) and the objective is to capture the
other team's flag, located at the team's "base," and bring it
safely back to their own base. In other versions, enemy players can
be "tagged" by players in their home territory; these players are
then, depending on the agreed rules, out of the game, members of
the opposite team, sent back to their own territory, or "in jail."
Wikipedia, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capture_the_flag, (last visited
Oct. 2, 2012).
[0052] Referring to FIG. 4, a block diagram of a gaming system for
a two-team version of the game Capture the Flag is depicted. System
400 comprises a first team, Team A, including a first hovering
remote-control flying craft 402A and a second hovering
remote-control flying craft 402A1. System 400 likewise comprises a
second team, Team B, including a third hovering remote-control
flying craft 402B and a fourth hovering remote-control flying craft
402B1. Craft 402A, 402A1 402B, and 402B1 are each substantially
similar to hovering remote-control flying craft 102. System 400
further comprises a first puck 406A corresponding to the "flag" of
Team A and a second puck 406B corresponding to the "flag" of Team
B. Pucks 406A and 406B are substantially similar to puck 106.
[0053] During game play, a hovering remote-control flying craft
402A, 402A1 402B, or 402B1, under control of a user by a
controller, must be within close proximity of the opponent's puck
406A or 406B to capture the "flag." The hovering remote-control
flying craft 402A, 402A1 402B, or 402B1 must then return to near
their own team's puck 406A or 406B and be within close proximity of
the puck or shoot it to win. For example, first hovering
remote-control flying craft 402A is instructed by the user
controlling first hovering remote-control flying craft 402A to fly
near Team B's puck 406B and "shoot" puck 406B. Similarly, fourth
hovering remote-control flying craft 402B1 is instructed by the
user controlling fourth hovering remote-control flying craft 402B1
to fly near Team A's puck 406A and "shoot" puck 406A. First
hovering remote-control flying craft 402A must then return to puck
406A and shoot puck 406A, in embodiments, or be within proximity of
406A to have thereby returned with Team B's "flag." Likewise,
fourth hovering remote-control flying craft 402B1 must then return
to puck 406B and shoot puck 406B, in embodiments, or be within
proximity of 406B to have thereby returned with Team A's
"flag."
[0054] Other embodiments of advanced Capture the Flag game play can
include hovering remote-control flying craft "shooting" at each
other using IR transmissions to, depending on the agreed rules,
deactivate the shot hovering remote-control flying craft such that
it is out of the game, transform the shot hovering remote-control
flying craft to a member of the opposite team, or require the shot
hovering remote-control flying craft to go back to their own puck
and shoot it in order to once again attack the opposing puck. Each
of hovering remote-control flying craft 402A, 402A1 402B, and 402B1
can be lit via their respective LED to indicate the current team.
In embodiments, ground station 110 (not shown) can display the
current game status or statistics.
[0055] Additional hovering remote-control flying craft (not shown)
to each team can readily be added to system 400. For example, both
Team A and Team B can comprise two hovering remote-control flying
craft each, as depicted. In other embodiments, teams can comprise
three or more hovering remote-control flying craft. In another
embodiment, one team can play handicapped with fewer hovering
remote-control flying craft than the other team. In other
embodiments, additional teams can be added to the game.
[0056] Similarly, the game Capture the Team can be played as a
hybrid of Domination and Capture the Flag.
[0057] Tag
[0058] In the traditional game of Tag, a group of players (two or
more) decide who is going to be "it." The player selected to be
"it" then chases the others, attempting to get close enough to tag
them or touch them while the others try to escape. A tag makes the
tagged player "it." Wikipedia,
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tag_(game), (last visited Oct. 2,
2012).
[0059] Referring to FIG. 5, a block diagram of a gaming system for
the game Tag is depicted. System 400 comprises a first hovering
remote-control flying craft 502A, a second hovering remote-control
flying craft 502A1, a third hovering remote-control flying craft
502A2, and a fourth hovering remote-control flying craft 502B. All
of first hovering remote-control flying craft 502A, second hovering
remote-control flying craft 502A1, and third hovering
remote-control flying craft 502A2 are on first Team A, while the
remaining fourth hovering remote-control flying craft 502B is "it"
and on Team B. Hovering remote-control flying craft 502A, 502A1,
502A2, and 502B are each substantially similar to hovering
remote-control flying craft 102.
[0060] During game play, when the "it" player shoots another
player, the shooter joins team "A" while the hit player is now "it"
and on team B. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5, fourth
hovering remote-control flying craft 502B is instructed by the user
controlling fourth hovering remote-control flying craft 502B to fly
near first hovering remote-control flying craft 502A and "shoot,"
using IR transmission, first hovering remote-control flying craft
502A. First hovering remote-control flying craft 502A receives the
IR transmission from fourth hovering remote-control flying craft
502B and switches teams, so that first hovering remote-control
flying craft 502A is now "it." Likewise, fourth hovering
remote-control flying craft 502B receives confirmation of the IR
transmission reception and switches teams so that fourth hovering
remote-control flying craft 502B is no longer "it." Each of
hovering remote-control flying craft 502A, 502A1, 502A2, and 502B
can be lit via their respective LED to indicate the current team.
In embodiments, ground station 110 (not shown) can display the
current game status or statistics, such as the time each hovering
remote-control flying craft has been "it."
[0061] Additional hovering remote-control flying craft (not shown)
for each team can readily be added to system 400. For example, in
other embodiments, Team A can comprise four or more craft. In other
embodiments, additional teams can be added to the game.
[0062] Elimination
[0063] In the traditional game of Elimination, the game begins with
a number of players even split among a number of teams, typically
two teams. Whenever one player on a first team tags another player
on a second team, that second-team player is "out" and leaves the
game. The team with players remaining wins.
[0064] Referring to FIG. 6, a block diagram of a gaming system for
the game Elimination is depicted. System 600 comprises a first
team, Team A, including a first hovering remote-control flying
craft 602A and a second hovering remote-control flying craft 602A1.
System 600 likewise comprises a second team, Team B, including a
third hovering remote-control flying craft 602B and a fourth
hovering remote-control flying craft 602B1. Hovering remote-control
flying craft 602A, 602A1 602B, and 602B1 are each substantially
similar to hovering remote-control flying craft 102.
[0065] The game begins with teams, here illustrated as two
teams--Team A and Team B. Hovering remote-control flying craft
602A, 602A1 602B, and 602B1 are controlled by their respective
controllers (not shown) to "shoot," via IR transmission, an
opponent's hovering remote-control flying craft. Once the IR
transmission is received by the opponent hovering remote-control
flying craft, the opponent is out and that hovering remote-control
flying craft can be deactivated such that it is out of the game.
The Elimination game ends when all players on one team have been
eliminated. Each of hovering remote-control flying craft 602A,
602A1, 602B, and 602B1 can be lit via their respective LED to
indicate the current team.
[0066] As illustrated in FIG. 6, during game play, first hovering
remote-control flying craft 602A is instructed by the user
controlling first hovering remote-control flying craft 602A to
"shoot" at opponent third hovering remote-control flying craft
602B. Once third hovering remote-control flying craft 602B receives
the IR transmission, it is eliminated and changes LED color to an
"out" color or is deactivated to no longer fly, with algorithms
provided to return hovering remote-control flying craft 602B safely
to the ground. Similarly, fourth hovering remote-control flying
craft 602B1 is instructed by the user controlling fourth hovering
remote-control flying craft 602B1 to "shoot" at opponent second
hovering remote-control flying craft 602A1. Once second hovering
remote-control flying craft 602A1 receives the IR transmission, it
is eliminated and changes LED color to an "out" color or is
deactivated to no longer fly. In embodiments, ground station 110
(not shown) can display the current dominant team or other game
status or statistics.
[0067] Additional craft (not shown) for each team can readily be
added to system 400. For example, both Team A and Team B can
comprise two craft each, as depicted. In other embodiments, teams
can comprise three or more craft. In another embodiment, one team
can play handicapped with fewer craft than the other team. In other
embodiments, additional teams can be added to the game.
[0068] Quidditch.RTM.
[0069] In the fictional game of Quidditch.RTM., created by J. K.
Rowling for the Harry Potter series of novels, matches are played
between two teams of players riding flying broomsticks, using balls
and elevated ring-shaped goals on each side of the field. The
Quaffle is a larger ball intended to be thrown through the goals.
The Golden Snitch is a smaller golden ball and is enchanted to
hover, dart, and fly around the pitch, avoiding capture while
remaining within the boundaries of the playing area.
[0070] Various team positions have also been developed. The Chasers
progress up and down the pitch passing the Quaffle by hand amongst
themselves while keeping it away from the other team, in an attempt
to score goals by throwing it through one of their opponent's goal
hoops. The Keeper protects the goal hoops. The Beaters are armed
with wooden clubs and are tasked with protecting their teammates
and the seeker (mainly) from the Bludgers by knocking these balls
off course or towards opponents. The Seeker is tasked with
searching for and capturing the Golden Snitch. Seekers are the only
players permitted to touch the Snitch. Wikipedia,
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quidditch, (last visited Oct. 2,
2012).
[0071] Referring to FIG. 7, a block diagram of a gaming system for
a hovering remote-control craft version of a one-on-one "Golden
Snitch" game of Quidditch.RTM. is depicted. In this embodiment of
Quidditch.RTM., the first to catch the Golden Snitch by "shooting"
it a predetermined number of times wins the game. System 700
comprises a first hovering remote-control flying craft 702A, a
second hovering remote-control flying craft 702B, and a third
hovering remote-control flying craft 702 acting as the snitch.
Hovering remote-control flying craft 702, 702A, and 702B are each
substantially similar to hovering remote-control flying craft
102.
[0072] Hovering remote-control flying craft 702, acting as the
Golden Snitch, is programmed to automatically fly in a random
flight path once game play begins. Hovering remote-control flying
craft 702 can be illuminated by LED as a golden color. Hovering
remote-control flying craft 702A and hovering remote-control flying
craft 702B are on opposing sides and can therefore be illuminated
in different LED colors. During the game, hovering remote-control
flying craft 702A and hovering remote-control flying craft 702B can
be instructed by the users controlling the respective hovering
remote-control flying craft 702A and 702B to "shoot" at hovering
remote-control flying craft 702 using IR transmissions. In the
depiction of FIG. 7, hovering remote-control flying craft 702A is
shooting hovering remote-control flying craft 702, thereby
capturing the Golden Snitch. In embodiments, hovering
remote-control flying craft 702 then changes LED color to the color
of hovering remote-control flying craft 702A. In embodiments,
ground station 110 (not shown) can display the current game status
or statistics.
[0073] Referring to FIG. 8, a block diagram of a gaming system for
a hovering remote-control craft version of a full game for of
Quidditch.RTM. is depicted. For clarity, the hovering
remote-control flying craft for only one side is depicted, but the
rings for scoring for both sides are depicted for ease of
explanation. In this embodiment of Quidditch.RTM., instead of
having the Chasers throw the Quaffle through a ring to score, the
players fly their hovering remote-control flying craft through
rings to score. In an exemplary embodiment, each team includes a
Keeper and two Beaters (defenders who cannot score), and three
Chasers who can score. Strategy can thereby be employed by users by
bumping or ramming opposing hovering remote-control flying craft.
Optionally, a Golden Snitch can be added as described above in the
one-on-one version of Quidditch.RTM. by incorporating an additional
hovering remote-control flying craft (not shown).
[0074] System 800, as shown, again only with one team, consists of
a first hovering remote-control flying craft 802A denoted as the
Keeper, a second hovering remote-control flying craft 802A1 as a
Beater, a third hovering remote-control flying craft 802A2 as
another Beater, a fourth hovering remote-control flying craft 802A3
as a Chaser, a fifth hovering remote-control flying craft 802A4 as
another Chaser, and a sixth hovering remote-control flying craft
802A5 as the last Chaser. Hovering remote-control flying craft
802A-802A5 are each substantially similar to hovering
remote-control flying craft 102. Each hovering remote-control
flying craft 802A-802A5 is controlled by a controller (not shown)
configured to interface with each of the respective hovering
remote-control flying craft. These hovering remote-control flying
craft make up Team A. The opposing side to Team A would likewise
have a similar number of hovering remote-control flying craft with
similar roles. System 800 further includes ring 804A that depicts
the "goal" for Team A, and ring 804B that depicts the "goal" for
Team B. Additional rings can be incorporated on each side to
reflect a "true" Quidditch.RTM. field.
[0075] As depicted in FIG. 8, hovering remote-control flying craft
802A is defending Team A's goal, with hovering remote-control
flying craft 802A1 and 802A2 assisting on defense. Hovering
remote-control flying craft 802A3, 802A4, and 802A5 are attacking
toward ring 804B, the goal of Team B. Hovering remote-control
flying craft 802A5 is shown crossing through ring 804B to score for
Team A. In some embodiments, ground station 110 (not shown) can
display the current game status or statistics.
[0076] Duck Hunt
[0077] In the game of Duck Hunt, made popular by Nintendo.RTM. in
the 1980's, players use the Nintendo Light Gun and attempt to shoot
down either ducks or clay pigeons in mid-flight by aiming the gun
at a screen. Wikipedia, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duck_Hunt, (last
visited Oct. 2, 2012).
[0078] Referring to FIG. 9, a block diagram of a gaming system for
the game Duck Hunt is depicted. System 900 comprises a hovering
remote-control flying craft 902 and a gun 908. Hovering
remote-control flying craft 902 is substantially similar to
hovering remote-control flying craft 102, and gun 908 is
substantially similar to gun 108. In embodiments of system 900,
hovering remote-control flying craft 902 comprises the "duck" or
"clay pigeon."
[0079] During game play, hovering remote-control flying craft 902
is instructed by the user controlling hovering remote-control
flying craft 902 to fly around a game-play area, ideally in an
unpredictable flight pattern. A second user controlling gun 908
directs gun 908 in the direction of hovering remote-control flying
craft 902 and pulls the trigger, thereby "shooting" at hovering
remote-control flying craft 902. Once the second user has "shot"
hovering remote-control flying craft 902 once or a predetermined
number of times, hovering remote-control flying craft 902 is "dead"
and the game is over. In embodiments, ground station 110 (not
shown) can display the current game status or statistics, such as
the time elapsed for each hovering remote-control flying craft to
be "shot."
[0080] Additional hovering remote-control flying craft (not shown)
can readily be added to system 900. For example, Duck Hunt can be
played with multiple craft 902, so that the user operating gun 908
can target these additional craft. Further, the game can be played
with teams, each team incorporating one or more guns 908 and craft
902.
[0081] In some embodiments, hovering remote-control flying craft
902 is controlled autonomously using preprogrammed instructions to
fly around a game-play area autonomously, ideally in an
unpredictable flight pattern, such that Duck Hunt can be played in
a single-player mode. In some such embodiments player one targets
hovering remote-control flying craft 902 with gun 908 and attempts
to "shoot" hovering remote-control flying craft 902 while hovering
remote-control flying craft 902 flies autonomously around an area
of play. In some embodiments, the area of play is user definable
via software, an app, and/or user input controls available on the
craft of controller.
[0082] In some embodiments of Duck Hunt, ducks can "shoot" the
hunters. For example, remote-control flying craft 902 can be
controlled by a controller (not shown) to command craft 902 to
"shoot" at an opponent hunter, or another user operating gun 908 to
"shoot" at craft 902. In some embodiments, gun 908 is configured to
receive IR transmissions. In other embodiments, the user of gun 908
can wear an additional accessory to receive IR transmissions, such
as an IR-receiving vest or other apparel or accessory.
[0083] In a variation of the embodiment described above, multiple
craft can be controlled by multiple users on the same team to
comprise a "team" of ducks. In other embodiments, multiple shooters
can comprise a team of hunters. In another embodiment, a single
user can play as both a duck and a hunter, controlling both guns
908 and a controller to shoot craft 902 at other hunters.
[0084] FIG. 10 depicts a gaming system according to an embodiment
that includes a game control application configured to execute on a
computing device. For example, controller 104A is paired with craft
102A while controller 104B is paired with craft 102B using an RF
communications control protocol. Both crafts 104A and 104B are
communicating with target pucks 106A-D by both RF and IR signals.
Pucks 106A, 106B and 106C are each communicating with master puck
106D by RF signals. Master puck 106D is also capable of
communicating with the game control station laptop computer 110A or
tablet computer 110B by RF signals. The communications between
master puck 106D and game control station 110A or 110B may be via
several protocols including Bluetooth, WiFi, Zigbee or a
proprietary protocol.
[0085] FIG. 10 further depicts the types of information that may be
communicated between the various parts of the gaming system and the
maximum number of node types that may be supported by the gaming
system at any given time. For example, the craft 102A may be
communicating "Control and Status Updates" to the controller 104A.
The craft 102A may further be communicating proximity alert and IR
hits with all the pucks 106A-D. The craft 102A may communicate the
IR hits with the craft 102B. The master puck 106D may communicate
target status with any of pucks 106A-C as well as game status with
game control station 110A or 110B and player status with controller
104A or 104B. In the gaming system there may only be one game
control system 110 and only one master target puck 106D. However
there may be one or more controllers 104, craft 102 or non-master
target pucks 106.
[0086] FIG. 11 is a block diagram depicting the details for an
embodiment of the RF communication protocol creating in the Team
Selection state engine. For example, in some embodiments, this
protocol begins with the user pressing the team selection button on
controller 104, as described in Block 1120. The controller 104
senses the button press and transmits a team change message to
craft 102, as described in Block 1122. Craft 102 receives the team
change request and increments 1124 the internal team code setting
to the next available code and craft 102 then changes the color of
the LED to match the team code selected, as described in Block
1124. Craft 102 transmits an acknowledgement message to controller
104 that includes the active team code on craft 102, as described
in Block 1126. The controller 104 receives the message from the
craft 102 and updates the controller 104 team code register and
indicates to the user that the change is complete by changing the
LED to match the updated team code, as described in Block 1128.
Controller 104 then continues to monitor 1121 the team selection
button for another button press.
[0087] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a
three-dimensional gaming system that enables game play among
remote-control craft, wherein the gaming system includes, at least
four remote-control craft, each craft selectively paired with and
controlled by a corresponding controller via a radio-frequency (RF)
communication protocol implemented between the corresponding
controller and the remote-control craft that transmits at least
craft control communications between a particular selectable pair
of the controller and the remote-control craft based on a pair
identification information contained in the RF communication
protocol, each controller including at least a trigger mechanism
that communicates information via the RF communication protocol to
a corresponding remote-control craft of the particular selectable
pair for use in controlling and communicating game-play information
among at least the remote-control craft via an infrared (IR)
communication protocol implemented via an infrared transmitter and
receiver on the corresponding remote-control craft, wherein at
least two sets of at least two of the particular selectable pairs
are also selectively assigned to a different team for purposes of
playing multiplayer team games based on a team identification
information in the RF communication protocol.
[0088] In some embodiments, the gaming system includes at least one
additional game accessory element that is equipped with an infrared
transmitter and receiver to communicate via the IR communication
protocol with at least one of the remote-control craft. In some
embodiments, at the least one additional accessory element is
further equipped to transmit communications via the RF
communication protocol. In some embodiments, the at least one
additional accessory element is selected from the set consisting of
a target puck, a reloading station, a gun, or any combination
thereof.
[0089] In some embodiments, the remote-control craft are flying
craft and the accessory elements are non-flying objects.
[0090] In some embodiments, the gaming system includes a
game-control application configured to execute on a computing
device having an RF communication channel for accessing the RF
communication protocol, the game-control application being
programmed to dynamically display information from the gaming
system related to the multiplayer team games.
[0091] In some embodiments, the RF communication channel is a
Bluetooth.RTM. communication channel between the computing device
and at least one accessory element.
[0092] In some embodiments, the RF communication channel is RF
communication circuitry on a USB dongle configured to utilize the
RF communication protocol.
[0093] In some embodiments, the remote-control craft and the
controllers each include at least one multi-color LED configured to
display a common selectable color that is the same for both the
craft and the controller of the particular selectable pair and
indicates the team to which the particular selectable pair of the
craft and controller are assigned for purposes of playing
multiplayer team games.
[0094] In some embodiments, the multiplayer team games are selected
from the set including Domination, Capture the Flag, Capture the
Team, Elimination, King of the Hill and Quidditch, and the LED on
the remote-control craft and the controllers is utilized to display
game play information to users for the multiplayer team game.
[0095] In some embodiments, the gaming system includes a
battery-powered handheld gun that includes at least an infrared
transmitter configured to communicate game play information to at
least the remote control craft via the infrared (IR) communication
protocol.
[0096] In some embodiments, the remote control craft are flying
hovering craft and the controllers are handheld controllers that
are configured to communicate at least some control signals via the
RF communication protocol in response to sensed orientation of the
handheld controller.
[0097] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method
for implementing a three-dimensional gaming system that enables
game play of among remote-control craft. In some embodiments, the
method includes, selectively pairing each of at least four
remote-control craft with a particular controller via a
radio-frequency (RF) communication protocol implemented between the
corresponding controller and the remote-control craft based on a
pair identification information contained in the RF communication
protocol, selectively assigning at least two sets of the particular
selectable pairs of the controller and the remote-control craft to
a different team for purposes of playing multiplayer team games
based on a team identification information in the RF communication
protocol, causing the corresponding controller of the particular
selectable pair of the controller and the remote-control craft to
communicate at least craft control communications and game-play
information between the particular selectable pair via the RF
communication protocol, the game-play information including control
information based on activations of a trigger mechanism on the
controller, and causing the corresponding remote-control craft of
the particular selectable pair of the controller and the
remote-control craft to use the game-play information, the pair
identification information and the team identification information
in controlling and communicating game-play information among the
remote-control craft via an infrared (IR) communication protocol
implemented via an infrared transmitter and receiver on the
corresponding remote-control craft.
[0098] Some embodiments of the method provide at least one
additional game accessory element that is equipped with an infrared
transmitter and receiver to communicate via the IR communication
protocol with at least a selected set of the remote-control
craft.
[0099] In some embodiments of the method, the at least one
additional accessory element further transmits communications via
the RF communication protocol with at least the selected set of the
remote-control craft.
[0100] Some embodiments of the method provide a game control
application configured to execute on a computing device having an
RF communication channel for accessing the RF communication
protocol, the game-control application being programmed to
dynamically display information from the gaming system related to
the multiplayer team games.
[0101] In some embodiments of the method, the remote control craft
and the controllers each include at least one multi-color LED, and
the method further comprises configuring the LED to display a
common selectable color that is the same for both the craft and the
controller of the particular selectable pair and indicates the team
to which the particular selectable pair of the craft and controller
are assigned for purposes of playing multiplayer team games.
[0102] In some embodiments of the method, the multiplayer team
games are selected from the set of: Domination, Capture the Flag,
Capture the Team, Elimination, King of the Hill and Quidditch, and
wherein configuring the LED on the remote control craft and the
controllers includes utilizing the LED to display game play
information to users for the multiplayer team game.
[0103] In some embodiments the method, the remote-control craft are
flying hovering craft and the controllers are handheld controllers
that are configured to communicate at least some control signals
via the RF communication protocol in response to sensed orientation
of the handheld controller.
[0104] Some embodiments of the method provide a battery-powered
handheld gun that includes at least an infrared transmitter and is
configured to communicate game play information to at least the
remote control craft via the infrared (IR) communication
protocol.
[0105] Various embodiments of systems, devices and methods have
been described herein. These embodiments are given only by way of
example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
It should be appreciated, moreover, that the various features of
the embodiments that have been described may be combined in various
ways to produce numerous additional embodiments. Moreover, while
various materials, dimensions, shapes, configurations and
locations, etc. have been described for use with disclosed
embodiments, others besides those disclosed may be utilized without
exceeding the scope of the invention.
[0106] Persons of ordinary skill in the relevant arts will
recognize that the invention may comprise fewer features than
illustrated in any individual embodiment described above. The
embodiments described herein are not meant to be an exhaustive
presentation of the ways in which the various features of the
invention may be formed or combined. Accordingly, the embodiments
are not mutually exclusive combinations of features; rather, the
invention may comprise a combination of different individual
features selected from different individual embodiments, as
understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art.
[0107] The entire content of each and all patents, patent
applications, articles and additional references, mentioned herein,
are respectively incorporated herein by reference.
[0108] The art described is not intended to constitute an admission
that any patent, publication or other information referred to
herein is "prior art" with respect to this invention, unless
specifically designated as such. In addition, any description of
the art should not be construed to mean that a search has been made
or that no other pertinent information as defined in 37 C.F.R.
.sctn.1.56(a) exists.
[0109] Any incorporation by reference of documents above is limited
such that no subject matter is incorporated that is contrary to the
explicit disclosure herein. Any incorporation by reference of
documents above is further limited such that no claims included in
the documents are incorporated by reference herein. Any
incorporation by reference of documents above is yet further
limited such that any definitions provided in the documents are not
incorporated by reference herein unless expressly included
herein.
[0110] It is to be understood that the above description is
intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Although numerous
characteristics and advantages of various embodiments as described
herein have been set forth in the foregoing description, together
with details of the structure and function of various embodiments,
many other embodiments and changes to details will be apparent to
those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The
scope of the invention should be, therefore, determined with
reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of
equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended
claims, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the
plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and
"wherein," respectively. Moreover, the terms "first," "second," and
"third," etc., are used merely as labels, and are not intended to
impose numerical requirements on their objects.
* * * * *
References