AU2017101339A4 - A Game Controller - Google Patents

Abstract

A virtual or augmented reality system, the system comprising: a computer processor for generating images; a head mounted display unit for displaying images from the computer processor; a game controller adapted to interface with the computer processor; and a tracking device for tracking the position of the game controller; wherein the game controller takes the form of an implement that corresponds to the virtual image generated by the computer processor and the game controller has integral sensors adapted to allow the tracking of the position of the game controller so as to provide a virtual representation of the game controller within the game displayed on the head mounted display unit. L.-

Description

A GAME CONTROLLER

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to virtual reality game systems and, more particularly to virtual reality game controllers.

BACKGROUND

[0002] People have a certain experience of using objects in reality for which they have developed a muscle memory. Users of virtual reality systems often find that their muscle memory does not translate to the virtual version of that object.

[0003] For instance, people who are adept at using a baseball bat in reality may find the corresponding virtual experience unrealistic and unsatisfying. The game controller does not have the weight or length of a real baseball bat, or the feel of the bat hitting a ball.

[0004] Users of virtual reality systems often feels that there is a disconnect between what the user thinks an object in a virtual reality game should feel and react and what the game controller actually feels like.

[0005] The more realistic the virtual reality experience, the more immersive the experience for the user. Accordingly, the object of the present invention is to provide a game controller which produces a more realistic virtual reality experience.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0006] According to the present invention there is provided a virtual or augmented reality system, the system comprising: (a) a computer processor for generating images; (b) a head mounted display unit for displaying images from the computer processor; (c) a game controller adapted to interface with the computer processor; and (d) a tracking device for tracking the position of the game controller; wherein the game controller takes the form of an implement that corresponds to the virtual image generated by the computer processor and the game controller has integral sensors adapted to allow the tracking of the position of the game controller so as to provide a virtual representation of the game controller within the game displayed on the head mounted display unit.

[0007] Preferably, the game controller has an internal haptic feedback device adapted to receive signals from the computer processor. More preferably, the internal haptic feedback device features a solenoid for producing thumps in the game controller. The haptic feedback device may also feature a vibratory motor to provide rumbling forces in the game controller.

The game controller may also include an audio speaker connected to the computer processor for relaying sound feedback from the game.

[0008] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0009] Various embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, in which: [0010] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a game controller in the form of a cricket bat in use, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the game controller of figure 1.

[0012] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a game controller in the form of a tennis racquet according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a game controller in the form of a baseball bat according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a game controller in the form of a golf club according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a game controller in the form of a hockey stick according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a game controller in the form of a sword according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a game controller in the form of a hammer weapon according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a game controller in the form of a fire extinguisher according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a game controller in the form of a fishing rod according to another embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Figure 1 shows a game controller 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The game controller 10 has sensors 12 (see figure 2) which interact with beacons 14. The beacons 14 emit light waves 15 which the sensors 12 use to determine their position. The game controller 10 sends positional data to a computer processor 16. The computer processor 16 generates an image to send to the head mounted display unit 18. The user 20 sees a virtual representation of the game controller 10 in the images within the head mounted display unit 18.

[0021] The game controller 10 features a haptic feedback device 22. In one embodiment of the invention, the haptic feedback device 22 takes the form of a push pull solenoid 24. The solenoid 22 provides a thump in the game controller 10 when the user hits a virtual ball in the game. The solenoid 22 is controlled by a microprocessor 26 which sends signals to the computer processor 16 via a wireless modem 28. The game controller 10 may also feature a vibratory motor (not shown) which provides rumbling forces to the user 20. The combination of the solenoid 22 providing thumps and the vibratory motor provide rumbling forces enriches the amount of sensations and thereby realism that can be conveyed to the user 20.

[0022] The game controller 10 also features an audio speaker 30 which provides a sound effect in the real world when the virtual ball hits the virtual cricket bat in virtual reality. The audio signals are relayed to the audio speaker 30 from the computer processor 16.

[0023] Because the game controller 10 is in the form of a cricket bat, the user 20 experiences a greater degree of realism in the virtual environment. The user 20 may have developed muscle memory for use of the cricket bat in the real world which can then be applied in the virtual world. The muscle memory that is developed in the virtual world can then be applied to the real world. Thereby, the present invention can be used as a training tool.

[0024] Figure 3 shows another embodiment of the game controller 32 in the form of a tennis racquet. Once again, the game controller 32 features sensors 12 which relay the position of the game controller 32 to the computer processor 12 which then feeds back positional data to the virtual representation of the tennis racquet in the head mounted display unit 18.

[0025] Figure 4 shows another embodiment of the present invention in the form of a baseball bat 34. Corresponding features of the game controller 10 of figures 1 and 2 are given corresponding numbers on the other embodiments of the invention. For example, figure 5 shows an embodiment of the invention in the form of a golf club 36. Figure 6 shows an embodiment of the invention in the form of a hockey stick 38. Figure 7 shows another embodiment of the present invention in the form of a sword 40. Figure 8 shows another embodiment of the present invention in the form of a hammer weapon 42.

[0026] Figure 9 shows another embodiment of the invention in the form of a fire extinguisher 44, which features the haptic feedback device 22 in the handle of the fire extinguisher 44. The fire extinguisher 44 can be used in training exercises, which may involve virtual reality representations of fierce fires.

[0027] Figure 10 shows yet another embodiment of a game controller 46 in the form of a fishing rod. The game controller 46 has a reel 48 which features an internal motor that is connected to a string 50. The reel 46 provides the haptic feedback for the game controller 46. The string 50 can be coupled to a fixed item, such as the bottom of a door 52 using hook 54. The hook 54 may comprise a u-shaped metal plate which is adapted to be slid underneath the base of an open door, which can then be shut. The hook 54 provides a source of tension for the string 50 to the reel 48 in the game controller 46 so that the virtual reality fishing experience provides more realism to the user 20 who sees a virtual environment in the head mounted display unit 18. When the user 20 needs to cast the fishing rod in the virtual game, then the reel 48 can disengage so as to permit slack in the string 50 to allow the user a full range of motion. The game controller 46 also features a speaker 56 which may provide splashing sound effects, boat noises or other audio messages.

[0028] Other forms of implements for use as game controllers with virtual reality and augmented reality are within the scope and ambit of the present invention. These include, for example teledildonics.

[0029] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’ and its derivatives including ‘comprises’ and ‘comprise’ include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[0030] Reference throughout this specification to ‘one embodiment’ or ‘an embodiment’ means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases ‘in one embodiment’ or ‘in an embodiment’ in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0031] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims (5)

1. A virtual or augmented reality system, the system comprising: (a) a computer processor for generating images; (b) a head mounted display unit for displaying images from the computer processor; (c) a game controller adapted to interface with the computer processor; and (d) a tracking device for tracking the position of the game controller; wherein the game controller takes the form of an implement that corresponds to the virtual image generated by the computer processor and the game controller has integral sensors adapted to allow the tracking of the position of the game controller so as to provide a virtual representation of the game controller within the game displayed on the head mounted display unit.

2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the game controller has an internal haptic feedback device adapted to receive signals from the computer processor.

3. A system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the internal haptic feedback device features a solenoid for producing sensations in the game controller.

4. A system according to any one of preceding claims, wherein the internal haptic feedback device features a vibratory motor for producing sensations in the game controller.

5. A system according to any one of preceding claims, wherein the game controller includes an audio speaker connected to the computer processor for relaying sound feedback.