JPH10510172A - Electronic shooting game device - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] The present invention relates to an electronic shooting game device. The device 1 has a number of zone control units 5 each defining a zone 6 in a game arena 7. Each zone control unit 5 transmits position information to the mobile player unit 4 via an infrared transmitter 8 provided in the zone control unit 5. The range and extent of the infrared field defines the boundaries of zone 6, and the information received by mobile player units 4 when a player enters zone 6 is determined using the communication timeslot period unique to each mobile player unit 4. , To the central processing unit 2 and other mobile player units 4 in real time.

Description

Description: TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a device for an electronic shooting game played in a game hall. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Perhaps the most important aspects of such a device are, firstly, the ease with which the player becomes proficient in the game, and secondly, help maintain the interest of the player no matter how many times the game is played. It has attractive features. It is difficult to handle both sides as one, and it is relatively easy to provide only one side. In the past, many of the improvements in such devices have been very specific, for example, to improve the accuracy of shooting. They rarely affect the overall and general nature of the game being played, and are therefore less useful in providing sufficient game motivation to maintain the player's interest. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a device that greatly and generally improves the way in which a game is played. DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an electronic shooting game device, comprising: a controller for controlling the progress of a game in a game field; at least one mobile player unit; and a game communication means for communicating data in the device. Means for sensing the position of a player unit in the game stadium. This is advantageous because it takes into account the introduction of location information into the game. This information can be used in various ways to add fun to the game to the user. Conveniently, the device comprises at least one zone control unit comprising means for defining a game playing zone in the stadium. Thus, the game operator can assign special game attributes to each zone throughout the stadium. These attributes can apply to all zones or selected zones, and specific zones can be defined in different ways for different players. Thus, in addition to using location information for a player tracking within a stadium, the information can also be used to handicap the player. In one embodiment, the zone control unit comprises zone communication means for transmitting data to define a zone, and each mobile player unit comprises means for receiving the data. This is a particularly effective means of defining a zone, combining the function of defining a zone with the function of communication in one operation. Of course, these functions can be maintained separately, for example, by providing a sensor that senses the player unit entering the zone and a transmitter that communicates the sensed data to the game communication means. In one embodiment, the zone control unit comprises a zone controller. The zone control unit comprises means for transmitting a unique zone identifier in the data under the control of the zone controller. In one embodiment, the zone communication means comprises a radiation transmitter activated by the zone controller. These features allow for easy and effective transmission of location data. Furthermore, the dimensions of the zone can be easily changed by changing the spread of the radiation field. In one embodiment, a plurality of zone control units are provided, wherein each of the zone control units is located in a zone associated with the zone control unit for defining a zone in a game stadium where the game is performed. This is for transmitting position information from each zone control unit to the mobile player unit. This allows the system to accurately record the position of the player during the course of the game, and further, the device can follow the movement of the player, whether the player is moving too fast Is useful for many game scenarios, as well as providing security features. Ideally, the radiation transmitter is an infrared transmitter. Thus, the zones are defined in a relatively simple manner and can be easily changed by changing the spread of the infrared field. In one arrangement, the zone communication means comprises means for transmitting status data to each mobile player unit. Therefore, game information can be transmitted using the zone control unit. Conveniently said zone communication means comprises a status receiver for receiving status data from a mobile player unit. Therefore, game information can be received using the zone control unit. Advantageously, said zone communication means comprises a transceiver. Preferably, the zone identification means is non-volatile and comprises a number of dip switches for setting a zone identifier. This eliminates the need for specially programmed units by allowing the code to be configured when said units are installed, receiving player location information and zone identifiers from a dedicated zone control unit By doing so, it can be updated as soon as a zone is input. Ideally, the zone controller comprises a microcontroller with associated memory and timing means. Thus, the zone information can be transmitted in a pulsed mode, and the power requirements are reduced by using a microcontroller timer. In one configuration, the zone communication unit has a data communication unit for communicating with the central processing unit. This allows information to be sent to and from the controller via the zone unit. This is advantageous because it provides for zones where the features can be changed as the game progresses. These include, for example, a no entry zone and a safety zone. Advantageously, the game communication means comprises a mobile player unit communication means provided in the mobile player unit for real-time wireless communication with the controller during a time slot unique to each mobile player unit. . In this way, additional information about the location within the game arena, as well as game information about shooting and hits, can be effectively communicated to the controller in real time. This communication is advantageously implemented because it does not require a multiplexed communication channel and the controller does not need to poll each mobile player unit, allowing real-time communication of information without the risk of communication interference and reducing costs. Is minimized. Preferably, the controller comprises a central processing unit and at least one control unit having associated player unit communication means, wherein the control unit establishes communication between the central processing unit and each mobile player unit. It is provided in the stadium for control. This allows the control device to be strategically located within the game arena and can be easily moved if necessary. Advantageously, said mobile player unit communication means comprises a receiver and a transmitter, which advantageously allows the player unit to receive and transmit game status information. Ideally, the receiver has a zone receiver for receiving position data from the zone control unit. Thus, the game information received by the player unit is efficiently communicated to the processor of the mobile player unit. Advantageously, the zone receiver has decoding means for decoding the position data and for detecting the security zone. In this way, a zone can be defined as a safe break to prevent the player from firing or being fired. Ideally, the decoding means incorporates a disabling means for preventing a change in game information. Therefore, the game state information of each player unit cannot be changed while in the safety zone except in the case of the controller. Conveniently, the receiver is a two-part radiation receiver, a control receiver for receiving radio frequency signals, and a zone receiver for receiving infrared signals. Thus, combining the common features of the two receivers reduces the size and weight of the receiver. Conveniently, the device comprises at least two mobile player units each having independently operable mobile communication means for communicating with the controller in a unique time slot. Thus, each mobile player unit can transmit in turn, eliminating the need for the controller to poll for game information, thereby improving game response. Advantageously, the mobile player unit incorporates identification means for informing the controller of the mobile player unit. Therefore, the controller can recognize the source of the received game information and compile this with information from another player unit to provide team state information. Furthermore, many games can be played among many teams at the same time without affecting each other in the same game arena. Advantageously, the mobile player unit incorporates position display means for receiving position information from the mobile player units in the stadium and for displaying the relevant positions of other mobile player units. Accordingly, a tracking device or player radar is provided to track members of fellow teams and / or opposing teams during the course of the game. Ideally, the position display means has a filter means for removing position information of the selected mobile player unit. Thus, information about players of different games that may occur at the same time in the same game arena is not shown, and unnecessary interaction is prevented. Conveniently, the position display means is provided by a liquid crystal display device communicating with the mobile player unit communication means. Thus, the received information is displayed in a simple and efficient way. Ideally, each control device would consist of a sound generator. Thus, the control device can transmit in real time to its associated player unit. Conveniently, the player communication means comprises a transmitter for transmitting game information from the control device to each mobile player unit provided in the communication field, having a communication field associated with the stadium. . Thus, each mobile player unit will receive game information from the control device transmission field in which it is located. Conveniently each control device incorporates timing means for determining a control device transmission period specific to the player communication means associated with the control device. Therefore, the control devices can sequentially transfer information without fear of transmission interference between adjacent control devices. In addition, this feature allows multiple mobile player units to communicate without requiring additional channels that require increased bandwidth. Ideally, a plurality of control devices are provided, each control device having an associated transmission field, which is used to determine the transmission area within the game stadium, and to a mobile device installed in the transmission field of the control device. This is for transmitting game information from the control device to the player unit. This ensures that all mobile player units in the game arena receive game information in real time. Advantageously, the transmitter is a radio frequency transmitter, so that transmission is simple and efficient. Advantageously, each player communication means comprises a player communication controller and a device identification means for controlling said player communication means. Advantageously, the individual control devices can be configured to operate in a predefined manner, and furthermore the control devices can be easily reconfigured even during the course of the game. Ideally, the player communication means comprises a receiver for receiving signals from the mobile player unit. Thus, the control device can receive game state information from the mobile player unit, which information acts locally or is communicated to a central processing unit. In this way, the shape or size of the game stadium can be changed without adversely affecting the communication of the game. In some arrangements, the transmitter and receiver are combined as a transceiver, thereby reducing the number of components required. Conveniently, the control device comprises a host communication means for communicating with the central processing unit. Thereby, the game state information can be communicated to the central processing unit. Conveniently, the host communication means comprises a host communication controller, a data buffer, and a communication link for connection between the central processing unit and the data buffer. Thus, constant access to the central processing unit is obtained, eliminating the possibility of delays in communication, and further increasing the processing power or number of central processing units to reduce the capacity of the device by the number of players. Can be easily expanded to accommodate the increase. Advantageously, the host communication controller and the player communication controller are integrally formed as a device communication controller, thereby reducing the component requirements by combining functions. Ideally, the device communication controller is a microcontroller having an associated memory and timing means for controlling communication between the control device and the central processing unit and between the control device and the mobile player unit. . Advantageously, standard components are used, thereby reducing costs. In some embodiments, at least one control device is located in the gaming stadium remote from the central processing unit and capable of playing games. Advantageously, obstacles can be used in the game stadium without interrupting communication. These obstacles include those naturally occurring features of the gaming stadium, such as walls, and obstacles that increase authenticity and player enjoyment. Ideally, each mobile player unit communication means has a processor with associated memory means for controlling said mobile player unit communication means. This is advantageous because processing can be performed locally in the player unit. Conveniently, the mobile player unit communication means comprises a player unit transmission for communicating game information from the mobile player unit to the control device. Therefore, information can be transferred between the mobile player unit and the controller in real time. Ideally, said player unit receiving means comprises a control receiver for receiving status data from said controller, whereby a communication link with a central processing unit is established. Conveniently, the control receiver has means for receiving status data from another mobile player unit. Therefore, the state information of the team can be shared, and the player can develop tactics, thereby increasing the pleasure of the player's game. In one arrangement, the control receiver and the player unit transmitter are formed as a mobile player unit transceiver. Thus, the number of components required is reduced, thereby minimizing the weight and cost of the player unit. Ideally, each mobile player unit incorporates timing means for determining a unique communication period associated with the mobile player unit. Therefore, each player unit can communicate game information in the game stadium without fear of transmission interference. In one arrangement, the controller assigns a unique time slot period to each mobile player unit and control device by storing a relationship between a fixed or real node identifier and another identifier that identifies the unique time slot period. Means. Conveniently, the controller comprises means for transmitting a signal to reconfigure the device by reassigning another identifier for the real identifier in real time. The controller comprises means for reconfiguring the device by sending a reconfiguration signal consisting of a reference followed by a series of real identifiers in successive time slots, and each node comprising Ideally, it comprises means for identifying the identifier and storing an indication of the position of the identifier in the reconstructed signal and setting the different identifier as a configuration. Advantageously, the controller comprises means for assigning a different identifier to only a part of the nodes of the device at any one time. The controller comprising means for transmitting a synchronization signal having a synchronization frame for clock synchronization at the node, in which a series of time slots to which the node can respond in the relevant appropriate time slot. And each node advantageously determines its time slot according to its current alternate identifier. In one embodiment, the controller comprises means for including an auxiliary time slot for random use by a node, such as an inoperative node. Ideally, each node consists of means for storing a configuration for later retrieval, said configuration being identified by a unique reference. In a preferred arrangement, the device comprises an infrared communication means consisting of a receiver and a transmitter programmed to communicate at a fast sequence change rate. Ideally, the speed has a frequency greater than 2 seconds. In a preferred embodiment, the transmitter comprises means for coding a part of the transmitted signal and changing the coding method for a subsequent transmission. Conveniently, the code is coded by using coded bytes retrieved from an indexed table, with the next byte of the table being used for each subsequent communication. Ideally, the checksum of the transmitted signal is coded. Ideally, the mobile player unit has an electron gun. Ideally, the player unit has a body unit. Thus, the player unit can be worn by the player during the course of the game. In a preferred arrangement, the body unit has a body protection shell with integrated indication means that the player has been shot. Thus, information received locally or from the game controller can be displayed to the player using a light, buzzer, or solenoid. Advantageously, said controller comprises a real-time communication controller. Therefore, the need for the player to pass through the control point is eliminated, and the information can be quickly and efficiently dispersed. According to one aspect of the invention, a controller for controlling the progress of a game at a game stadium, at least one mobile player unit, and defining a unique zone within the game stadium where the first game is played. Means for sensing the position of a player unit in the stadium, comprising a plurality of zone control units each having means for communicating with the zone control unit, the mobile player unit and the controller in real time. An electronic shooting game device is provided, comprising: a game communication means for controlling. The electronic shooting game device is advantageous because each mobile player unit can interact with other mobile player units in real time. Real-time herein is understood to be less than one second, the maximum allowable time allowed for a response to a game event without diminishing the enjoyment of the game. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present invention can be readily understood from the following detailed description of specific embodiments thereof, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic shooting game apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a plan view of a stadium divided into zones as viewed from above. FIG. 3 is a side view of the zone identification unit in operation. FIG. 4 is a block diagram of one zone identification unit. FIG. 5 is a front view of the player unit. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration of the body unit shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a game stadium control device forming a part of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a timing chart of the electronic shooting game apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing another electronic shooting game apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 10 is a plan view of another stadium shown in FIG. 9 divided into zones. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Referring to the accompanying drawings, FIGS. 1 to 7 show an electronic shooting game apparatus 1. FIG. The device 1 has a controller for controlling the progress of a game in a game hall. The controller comprises a central processing unit 2 and a number of control units 3. The device 1 also includes a plurality of mobile player units 4 mounted by each player and a plurality of zone control units 5 for defining a zone 6 within the game stadium 7, respectively. It has means for sensing the position of the player unit 4. Each zone control unit 5 has a data transmitter for transmitting position data in the zone 6 provided by an infrared transmitter 8 provided in the zone control unit 5. The zone control unit also has a zone identification means provided by a bank of dip switches 9 and a zone microcontroller 10 having an integration timer 11 for controlling the infrared transmitter 8. The dip switch 9 of each control unit 5 defines a unique binary position code transmitted via the infrared transmitter to define each zone 6. The extent and extent of the infrared field demarcate Zone 6, and the binary position code is received by mobile player unit 4 when the player enters Zone 6. With particular reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the mobile player unit 4 has an electron gun 12 and a body unit 13. The body unit 13 has a body protection shell 14 having an indicator 15 for displaying a player's game state using a number of buzzers 15a and light sources 15b. The body protection shell 14 also has communication means provided by a player unit communicator 16 for real-time communication with the central processing unit 2. The player unit communicator 16 has a memory chip 17 connected to a microprocessor 18 and an associated timer 18 (a) for controlling communication with the player unit communicator 16. The microprocessor 18 is further connected to an infrared receiver 19 and to a radio frequency transceiver formed by a radio frequency receiver 20, a radio frequency transmitter 21 and an antenna 22. With particular reference to FIG. 7, the control device 3 has a device communication microcontroller 23 having an internal memory 24 and a timer 25. The device communication microcontroller 23 is connected to the central processing unit 2 via a data buffer 26 and a network cable 27. The device communication microcontroller 23 is also connected to a device transceiver 28, which is further connected to a device antenna 29. FIG. 8 is a timing chart showing a communication timing structure between the central processing unit 2, the four control devices 3, and the six mobile player units 4. The timing chart 30 includes a synchronization pulse 31, four control device transmission periods 3 (a), 3 (b), 3 (c), 3 (d), a system settling pulse 32, and six control pulses. The mobile player unit transmission periods 4 (a), 4 (b), 4 (c), 4 (d), 4 (e) and 4 (f) are shown. In use, the central processing unit 2 sends a synchronization pulse 31 to the network cable 27 to each control unit 3. Upon receiving the synchronization pulse 31 via the data buffer 26, the device communication microcontroller 23 retrieves the value stored in the internal memory 24, sets the device timer 25 to this value, and starts counting. . When the device timer 25 completes this count, the identity of the control device 3, also stored in the internal memory 24, is transmitted to the mobile player unit 4 via the transceiver 28 and the device antenna 29. The values stored in the internal memory 24 for each control unit 3 are different, and are preset in the units corresponding to any of the transmission periods 3 (a) to 3 (d). Thereby, each control unit 3 can transmit in sequence without transmission interference. As the mobile player unit 4 moves around the stadium 7, a signal containing a match of the control device 3 is received via the radio frequency receiver 20 and the antenna 22 and sent to the microprocessor 18. When microprocessor 18 receives the signal, it stores it in timer 18 (a). Next, the microprocessor 18 uses the received information to determine when the system settling pulse 32 occurs by counting down from the received value. When the system settling pulse 32 begins, the microprocessor 18 resets the timer 18 (a) to a preset value stored in the memory chip 17 and determines the correct communication period associated with the mobile player unit 4. Each mobile player unit 4 has a unique communication period corresponding to any of the communication periods 4 (a) to 4 (f). In this way, each mobile player unit 4 can transmit the selected state information to the central processing unit 2 via the control device 3, and the other mobile player units 4 can in turn transmit the selected state information without transmission interference. Do. The status information is received by the mobile player unit 4 in the same manner as the timing information is received from the control device 3. The status information transmitted in this manner is stored in the memory chip 17 prior to transmission after being received and prioritized by the microprocessor 18. The status information includes details such as shootings fired by the player and hits received from other mobile player units. The player gets a hit by firing the electron gun 12 toward the enemy body unit 13. These hits are indicated to the player by the activation of the buzzer 15 (a) and the light source 15 (b). In addition to status information, location information is transmitted as well. The position information is received from the zone control unit 5. The zone control unit 5 has a binary code decoded in the dip switch 9. This code is transmitted via the infrared transmitter 8 of each control unit and defines each zone 6. The frequency of this binary code transmission is determined by the value stored in the integration timer 11 of the zone microcontroller 10. The extent and extent of the infrared field delimit the zone 6. This position information is received by the infrared receiver 19 of the mobile player unit 4 when the player enters each zone. This position information is sent to the microprocessor 18 again before transmission in any of the next communication periods 4 (a) to 4 (f). As the game progresses, the information thus transmitted in real time around the stadium 7 includes the hit state, the remaining number of bullets, the position, the timing signal and similar information regarding the electronic shooting game. be able to. More specifically, real-time communication between various communication circuits is achieved using a technique referred to herein as time slot multiplexing (TSM). The fact that each zone controller and mobile player unit has its own time slot for communication has already been briefly described, which allows a very large number of nodes to use one channel without any interruption. it can. Retrieving a value from the memory 17 and the microcontroller of each control device 3 similarly retrieving a value from the memory 24 have already been described. This value can be referred to as an alias identifier or ID because it identifies the unique timeslot that any particular node has at any time. A very important aspect of the present invention is that each node (player unit communicator 16 or controller 3) has a fixed or real identifier, hereinafter referred to as a real ID. The master node (controller 2) dynamically associates another ID with the real ID of each node used at a specific time at any time. It sends a reconfiguration signal at the beginning of the session, which achieves the following: (A) They set a number of nodes active, and thus set the cycle length to meet the demand of that number of nodes without redundant or unused time slots. (B) They set a different ID for each active node. Thus, each operational node knows its unique ID, which is a particular time slot for the session, as described above. After the reconfiguration signal, the master node sends a synchronization signal at very short intervals, in some embodiments every second. These synchronization signals are used for the synchronization of the clocks of the nodes, so that the transmission of data from the nodes is correctly located in the correct time slots. To explain this in more detail, each node can determine its own time slot according to the following equation: TSM slot time = (slot period × different ID) where TSM slot time is a time delay that occurs after receiving a TSM request “synchronization signal” (ie, reference time 0), and slot period is a defined duration. (It can be dynamically redefined as needed). Another ID is a non-zero positive integer. The initial configuration table stored in the master node (controller 2) can be as follows. In order to broadcast this information to each node, the controller according to the order described in the table above, in order to broadcast this information to each node. A reconfiguration signal including the real ID is transmitted in each successive time slot. This order can be dynamically redefined at any time by sending a reconfiguration message before issuing the information required by the master node. For example, the order can be reversed by sending the next reconstructed signal. Upon receiving such a signal, each node identifies its own real ID and its position in the reconstructed signal, and thus sets its other ID (in memory) according to the following table. ID by Node Real ID A 10 B 9 C 8 D 7 E 6 F 5 G 4 H 3 I 2 J 1 In another embodiment, the master node transmits the following similar reconfiguration signal by transmitting the following similar reconfiguration signal. , An appropriate subset of nodes can be activated for a particular session. Upon receiving such a signal, the node changes the contents of its memory to reflect another ID in the following table. A very important point to note is that after this reconfiguration signal, all of the nodes C-I are redundant since another ID is assigned only for nodes A, B and J. After this, each multiplexing cycle will involve only three time slots, thereby preparing for very fast data acquisition. Thereafter, the master node will send a synchronization signal every second to request information from the active node. Each active node reads the synchronization signal and resets its clock using a synchronization frame. At this time, each successive time slot is counted and its information is transmitted until its own time slot is recognized using the different ID. This synchronization is performed as follows. Note that in the above signal, each time slot following the synchronization frame represents a period for transmitting information from the node to the master node. For example, node J sends information in the first time slot. The display slot J in the first time slot does not indicate that the real ID J appears in this time slot, it is simply a time frame during which node J can transmit information. Another important aspect of the communication system is that it can include additional time slots for auxiliary or random use. In one embodiment, this may be referred to as slot 0 in the next synchronization signal. Slot 0 (not a valid separate ID) is shared for all nodes. The purpose of this slot is that during a single TSM sequence, an inactive node whose ID has been inadvertently or abnormally reset can dynamically request a restart. For example, the response can be expressed as: node Obviously, node F has responded during timeslot 0 and has requested a restart. Upon receiving such a return signal, the master node immediately reconfigures its table and sends the following reconfiguration signal to provide the following configuration. After this, the next synchronization signal requesting information transmitted from the master node is as follows. node Another important aspect of the present invention is that each reconstructed signal includes a unique header that can be used as a reference. The configuration settings indicated by the reconfiguration signal are stored in non-volatile memory at each node and can then be used if a request to use the configuration associated with that reference is sent from the master node. Regarding the hardware requirements to achieve the above-described operation, the communication circuit of the communication device 16 and the control device 3 uses a built-in microcontroller oscillator for timing. For the timing reference of this oscillator, an AT cut type crystal oscillator having the following characteristics is used. Fundamental frequency: +/- 20 ppm (parts per million) Frequency drift at 25 degrees C: +/- 50 ppm Temperature change 1 degree C per temperature range: -10 to +60 degrees C Basic frequency tolerance vs. time: 40 us / sec maximum Frequency drift: 3 ms / s max. From the above characteristics, any two crystals at 25 ° C. are within 40 ppm of each other (worst case). Thus, two stand-alone oscillators using a 1 MHz crystal can differ by up to 40 uS (microseconds) during a 1 second period. Under normal operating conditions, it is considered to be in the temperature range of + 10 ° C to + 40 ° C. Thus, there is a temperature swing of up to 30 degrees. Also, all crystals are considered to drift in the same direction (increase in frequency or decrease in frequency) with respect to temperature changes. Therefore, in the temperature range of 30 ° C., the maximum value at which any two crystals can cause a shift is as follows. 30 × 100 = 3000 ppm Here, 30 is a temperature change (° C.), and 100 is a maximum ppm change per 1 degree C. In this case, any two independent oscillators using a 1 MHz crystal may differ by up to 3000 uS (microseconds) during one second. Thus, over the course of one second (assuming crystal properties as described above), any two crystals are in the following range: Basic tolerance + maximum frequency drift = 3040 us / sec or 0.304% (deviation from frequency center of crystal +/- 0.152%) The slot time of each node has a period of 15 ms. Up to 30 slot time periods follow each synchronization signal. The maximum time for transmitting the information request signal is as follows. TSM_CYCLE time = TSM_REQ time + 30 × slot time period In the above equation, TSM_CYCLE time is the total time for communication of the signal information request signal. The TSM_REQ time represents a 15 ms synchronization frame. Only 46.5% of the time within a one second period is required for a TSM cycle. Since the quartz can shift up to 0.304 milliseconds per second, it can be seen that the maximum deviation following TSM synchronization is: 46.5% of 3.04 ms, or about 1.414 ms, that is, any two nodes at the end of the TSM cycle will not shift by more than +1.4 ms (see below). A serialized wireless data message is transmitted within the slot time period. This timing is started / synchronized by the TSM_REQ “synchronization” radio frame. Taking into account the distortion of the synchronizing sync signal (envelope and / or amplitude) and the timing resolution of the microcontroller software, a delay of about +50 microseconds can be added. Therefore, the maximum deviation between TSM_CYCLE is about 1.465 ms or about +/- 0.75 ms. All serialized data sent within the slot time period is itself bit synchronized. By providing a preamble (header) at the beginning of a data frame (at least 3 characters in 5 ms), the next data frame time is secured in total. The data frame time is less than the slot time period minus 1.465 ms. At the end of the TSM cycle (last slot time period), the interpretation of the start of the slot of the node may be up or down by 0.75 Ms. If early, 0.75 ms of preamble data is sent during the trailing edge of the previous slot (described above). This trailing slot time period is not used and corruption or interference between adjacent slot time period data frames occurs. If it is late, the frame will fall within 0.75 ms of unused time at the trailing edge of the slot. If the data frame is 0.75 ms later and the next slot is 0.75 ms earlier, there is a time to allow this maximum deviation at the end and at the beginning (ie, the preamble). The techniques used for communicating infrared (IR) signals are of great help in overcoming the problems defined by the possible use of Universal Learning IR Devices (ULIRDs). Such devices learn the code by detecting and storing the code, typically within a few seconds. In device 1, the IR transmitter is programmed to change the transfer of IR data at least once every two seconds. A synchronization pulse based on an external common timer or a built-in oscillator does this. By changing the IR sequence at this rate, ULIRD will not be able to collect codes. Further, the transmitter is programmed to change the checksum before transmission by using coded bytes. The checksum is modified in some embodiments by applying coded bytes using an XOR operation. The checksum is decrypted at the IR receiver. More specifically, the encoding method used is as follows. Data frame SOF, DAT1, DAT2 ... DATn, CHKSUM where SOF-start of frame byte DATn-nth data byte CHKSUM-SOF and total transmission frame SOF, DAT1, DAT2 ... of all data bytes .... DATn, (CHKSUM xor CODE) The code table stored in both the transmitting device and the receiving device is indexed every time the code is changed. Until the switching time of the next code, this code is XORed with the checksum of the data frame for transmission and the same code is XORed with the checksum byte on reception. ULIRD can learn one IR data transfer. However, when ULIRD transmits the learned data, the coded bytes have been changed and the learned data transfer is invalidated. At each switch time, the table index is incremented. When the end of the table is reached, the index is reset to the beginning of the table and the same process is repeated. Thus, when ULIRD learns one data transfer, this data will eventually become valid again. The larger the code table, the more effective the protection against ULIRD. Thus, it can be seen that the electronic shooting game device provides a new dimension to the interactivity of the electronic shooting game, thereby greatly improving the player's interest. Role-playing scenario, by providing a television screen on a wall or similar interactive device, and transmitting game commands through a game controller in response to a player state or a certain game state Can be introduced. By introducing a handicap system, the game can be as competitive as possible. Team battle scenarios can be developed by omitting the transmission of certain pieces of information to particular players or within parts of the stadium. Player movement within the stadium can also be controlled by penalizing lack of movement if the same location is reported multiple times. It will be appreciated that the real-time communication features of the present invention allow for very flexible communication in real time with a variable number of active nodes. For example, this allows a team configuration in a laser shooting game to be changed very frequently in a very simple manner. This is achieved by a simple wired and wireless transmission of a single configuration signal that resets all nodes. This communication method solves the problem of the conventional time division multiplexing scheme with a fixed number of time slots and nodes and very little flexibility. Also, a great deal of flexibility is gained based on the fact that nodes can be restarted during a game or generally at abnormal times. This is achieved by using time slot 0. Further, the controller can use the slot to transmit game information to all of the player units using the time slot, or to a single player unit or a group of player units simultaneously. The game information to be transmitted can be reconfiguration information, passive game information stored in the player unit, or active game information that requires immediate processing and next action by the player unit. The invention is not limited to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 show a modification of the configuration of the electronic shooting game device indicated by reference numeral 40. FIG. Portions similar to those described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8 are given the same reference numerals and described. In this configuration, every other zone 6 is defined by the absence of the zone control unit 5, so that the movement of the player stores the last position information of the mobile player unit until it enters the new zone 6. , Can be monitored. This is advantageous because the number of required zone control units is reduced. It is contemplated that communication at the device is by polling or other suitable system instead of time slot multiplexing. The controller need not have a separate control device. It is conceivable to replace the control unit microcontroller with a microprocessor so that more detailed processing can be executed. It is further contemplated that the configuration of the transceiver in the mobile player unit can be replaced by a similar device responsive to a transponder or control unit or the like. In this way, the transponder in the mobile player unit can be activated by the control unit and the resulting game response is determined by the microprocessor. The device of the present invention does not necessarily need to define a zone in the stadium. The position of the player can be sensed and actuated without relating it to the zone. Regardless of whether the game arena is divided into zones, it is conceivable to provide means for sensing the position of the player within the game arena using suitable sensing techniques. Pressure, light, motion or sound sensing devices may be used uniformly to sense the position of the player and the transmission of information about the player may be performed using any suitable communication technology or medium. It is conceivable to incorporate a receiver for communication with the central processing unit into the zone control unit. It may also be possible to configure the zone control unit to define "off-limits" zones by sending signals that adversely affect the state of the player, or to change the position of such zones during the course of the game. Conceivable. Also, one or more zone control units can be configured to communicate a secure zone code to mobile player units within the zone. This type of zone can be used in the context of a game to define a neutral zone that cannot be fired or shot by a player. Such a zone can be moved by the central processing unit during the progress of the game. Further, the zone recognizer, alone or in combination with the central processing unit, can maintain a record of the position of the player, prevent the player from re-entering the zone, and track the progress of the player on the playing field. It can be considered. In addition to tracking the progress of the player in the game arena, the information may be used to activate a voice indicating unit, a visual or another indicator, and relay a system message to the player. This type of unit can be used to inform a player that he is in a no-go zone, that a penalty is imminent, or to warn a player not to go through the zone. This kind of warning greatly improves the security of the game. The mobile player unit could be provided as a battery powered or powered vehicle such as a player powered cart. In addition, it is conceivable that these mobile player units have an appearance suitable for an environment of an electronic shooting game such as a tank or an armored vehicle. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the unit is provided as an airplane traveling on rails above the gaming stadium. It is conceivable to arrange the timing means of the player unit in the structure of the control device so that the device controller can request the player unit to send information in a polled manner or randomly. It is also conceivable for the central processing unit to control both mobile or fixed targets or obstacles, or to allow a mobile player unit to communicate with such targets. It is further contemplated that the unique match of each mobile player unit can be easily changed. This contemplates that a minimum number of transmission periods can be obtained without having to know which player unit is transmitting, and such transmission periods improve communication speed. It is conceivable to add additional communication channels to increase the bandwidth. In this way, channels can be reserved for a particular team, or additional players can be added without adversely affecting the real-time communication of the system. Further, it is conceivable to secure a specific communication channel for certain information. Also, any suitable type of communication medium is contemplated. It will be appreciated that the control device may include an additional microprocessor or microcontroller to control communication with the mobile player unit in an efficient manner. The controller may be able to interactively communicate with a similar controller at a remote location, forming a stadium network for games between gaming stadiums. Similarly, the remote controller may be provided by a personal computer with or without the mobile player unit, allowing the remote player unit to interact with the game in real time. This remote player unit does not necessarily need to be located in the stadium. The controller may also incorporate elements of popular games or scenes to enhance the role playing aspects of the game. It will be appreciated that the combination of any of the features described above can be used to maintain player interest. It will be readily understood that various modifications and changes can be made to the specific embodiment of the present invention described above, and thus the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, but may vary in both structure and details. Can be transformed.

────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of front page    (81) Designated countries EP (AT, BE, CH, DE, DK, ES, FR, GB, GR, IE, IT, LU, M C, NL, PT, SE), OA (BF, BJ, CF, CG , CI, CM, GA, GN, ML, MR, NE, SN, TD, TG), AP (KE, LS, MW, SD, SZ, U G), AM, AT, AU, BB, BG, BR, BY, C A, CH, CN, CZ, DE, DE, DK, DK, EE , ES, FI, GB, GE, HU, IS, JP, KE, KG, KP, KR, KZ, LK, LR, LT, LU, L V, MD, MG, MN, MW, MX, NO, NZ, PL , PT, RO, RU, SD, SE, SG, SI, SK, TJ, TM, TT, UA, UG, US, UZ, VN (72) Nelson, Daniel Earl             County Kildare, Ireland             Inus, St. Patrick's College             The Industrial Park             ) (72) Inventor Maroko, John             County Kildare, Ireland             Inus, Rockfield Walk             159 (72) Inventor McHughes, Adrian             Dublin 14, Ireland, Laasfa             Moonham, Grange Road, Stone             Park Abbey 3 (72) Inventor Mies, Fergal             Dublin 9, Ireland, Glasnevi             , Botanic Villas, Avandale               (No address) (72) Inventor Norton, Thomas             Dublin 12, Ireland, Rose Lo             Road Road 59 (72) Inventor Gleason, Daniel             County Kildare, Ireland             Inoos, Parklands Square 42 (72) Inventor Laznyak, Peter             Atira 67, Budapest, Hungary             1013

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. An electronic shooting game device,   A controller for controlling the progress of the game in the game space,   At least one mobile player unit;   Game communication means for communication of data in the device;   Means for sensing the position of the player unit in the game stadium; An electronic shooting game device, comprising: 2. At least comprising means for defining a game competition zone within said stadium. 2. The device according to claim 1, further comprising one zone control unit. Electronic shooting game device. 3. The zone control unit transmits data to define a zone And each mobile player unit transmits the data. 3. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising means for receiving. Place. 4. It is characterized in that the zone control unit comprises a zone controller. 4. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 2, wherein 5. The zone communication means stores the data in the data under the control of the zone controller. 5. A method according to claim 4, further comprising means for transmitting the unique zone identifier of the first zone. Electronic shooting game device. 6. The zone communication unit may be configured to activate radiation activated by the zone controller. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 4, comprising a transmitter. 7. A plurality of zone control units are provided, and each zone control unit is provided. Unit to define a zone within the game arena where the game is played, And said mobile located in a zone associated with said zone control unit To send location information from each zone control unit to the player unit 7. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 6, wherein: 8. The radiation transmitter is an infrared transmitter. An electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 1. 9. The zone communication means transmits status data to each mobile player unit. 9. An electron emission device according to claim 3, wherein said electron emission device comprises: Shooting game equipment. 10. The zone communication means receives status data from a mobile player unit. 10. The apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising a status receiver for receiving the information. Electronic shooting game device. 11. 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein said zone communication means comprises a transceiver. 0. An electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 1. 12. The zone controller has a number of settings for setting the zone identifier. 12. The device according to claim 5, wherein the device comprises a dip switch. Electronic shooting game device. 13. Said zone controller has associated memory and timing means 13. A microcontroller according to claim 4, wherein An electronic shooting game device as described in the above. 14． The zone communication means may perform data communication for communication with the central processing unit. 14. An electronic shooting game according to claim 3, further comprising means. System. 15. The game communication means is unique for each mobile player unit. Real time wireless communication with the controller during the time slot Player unit communicator provided in the mobile player unit for The electronic shooting game according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the electronic shooting game comprises steps. apparatus. 16. The controller communicates with a central processing unit and associated player unit At least one control device having means, said control means comprising: Device for controlling communication between said central processing unit and each mobile player unit The electronic shooting game machine according to claim 15, wherein the electronic shooting game machine is provided in the stadium. Device. 17． The mobile player unit communication means has a receiver and a transmitter 17. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 16, wherein: 18. If the player unit receiving means is the zone control unit And a zone receiver for receiving position data from the device. 8. The electronic shooting game device according to 7. 19. The zone receiver detects the security zone for decoding position data and 19. The electronic shooting game according to claim 18, further comprising decoding means for playing. apparatus. 20. The decryption means includes a disabling (disagl) for preventing a change in game information. 20. An electronic shooting game as claimed in claim 19, wherein ing) means are incorporated. System. 21. The player unit receiving means includes a two-part radiation receiver and a radio frequency signal. Control receiver for receiving and zone receiver for receiving infrared signals 21. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the electronic shooting game apparatus is a transceiver. Communication equipment 22. Independent for communicating with the controller in unique time slots At least two each having mobile player unit communication means operable independently 22. A mobile player unit according to claim 1, An electronic shooting game device as described in the above. 23. The mobile player unit includes the mobile player unit as described above. A position indicating means for informing the trawler, 23. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 22. 24. Mobile player units include mobile player units in the game arena. To receive location information from other players and the relative position of other mobile player units. 3. A position display means for displaying a position is incorporated. 24. The electronic shooting game device according to 2 or 23. 25. The position display means obtains position information of the selected mobile player unit. 25. The electronic shooting according to claim 24, further comprising a filter means for removing. Game equipment. 26. The position display means communicates with the mobile player unit communication means. The electronic device according to claim 24, wherein the electronic device is provided by a liquid crystal display device. Shooting game equipment. 27. 25. The position display means comprises a sound generator. An electronic shooting game device according to any one of to 26. 28. The player communication means has a communication field associated with the stadium. Each mobile platform provided in the communication field from the control device. Characterized by having a transmitter for transmitting game information to the layer unit An electronic shooting game apparatus according to any one of claims 16 to 27. 29. Each control device is a player communicator associated with the control device. Timing means to determine the specific control unit transmission period for the stage 29. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 28, wherein the electronic shooting game apparatus is incorporated. 30. A plurality of control devices are provided, and each of the control devices is associated with the control device. A transmission field for establishing a transmission area within the stadium, and The mobile player unit installed in the transmission field of a trawl device To transmit game information from the control device. 30. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 29. 31. The transmitter according to claim 28, wherein the transmitter is a radio frequency transmitter. 0. The electronic shooting game device according to any one of [1] to [10]. 32. Each of the player communication means includes a player communication controller and the player communication 28. A device identification means for controlling the means. 32. The electronic shooting game device according to any one of the items 31. 33. The player communication means receives a signal from the mobile player unit. 33. A receiver according to claim 27, further comprising a receiver for picking up. Electronic shooting game device. 34. The transmitter and the receiver are combined as a transceiver. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 33, wherein: 35. The control device communicates with the central processing unit through a host communication device. 35. Electronic shooting according to any one of claims 16 to 34, comprising a communication means. Game equipment. 36. The host communication means includes a host communication controller, a data buffer, , A communication link for connection with the central processing unit and the data buffer. 36. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 35, wherein: 37. The host communication controller and the player communication controller are 37. The communication controller according to claim 36, wherein the communication controller is integrally formed. An electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 1. 38. The device communication controller includes the control device and the central processing unit. Communication between the control device and the mobile player unit. Microcontroller with associated memory and timing means for 38. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 37, wherein: 39. At least one of the control devices is remote from the central processing unit; 2. The game stadium is provided in the game stadium. An electronic shooting game device according to any one of claims 6 to 38. 40. The game communication means controls the mobile player unit communication means. Claims comprising a processor having associated memory means for Item 40. The electronic shooting game device according to any one of Items 1 to 39. 41. Wherein the mobile player unit communication means is the mobile player unit; From a player unit to communicate game information to the control device from the 41. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 40, further comprising a machine. 42. The player unit receiving means receives status data from the controller. 5. A control receiver for receiving data. The electronic shooting game device according to any one of the preceding claims. 43. The control receiver receives status data from another mobile player unit. 43. The electronic shooting system according to claim 42, further comprising means for receiving the data. Device. 44. The control receiver and the player unit transmitter are mobile 44. A device according to claim 43, characterized in that it is formed as a layer unit transceiver. An electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 1. 45. Each mobile player unit has an associated mobile player unit It has a built-in timing means for determining a unique communication period. The electronic shooting game device according to any one of claims 15 to 44. 46. The controller stores a fixed or real node identifier relationship. This allows each mobile player unit and control device to have a unique time slot. Timing means for allocating a packet period, wherein the different identifier is 46. The electronic shooting game as claimed in claim 45, wherein a time slot period is identified. System. 47. The controller reassigns another identifier in real time to the real identifier. Means for transmitting a signal to reconfigure said device by applying 47. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 46, wherein: 48. The controller sends a series of real identifiers in successive time slots. Reconfigure the device by sending a reconfiguration signal consisting of a reference following And each node identifies its real identifier and said reconfiguration An indication of the position of the identifier in the signal is stored, and another identifier is set as a configuration. 48. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 47, comprising means for determining Place. 49. The controller can always separately identify only some of the nodes of the device 49. A method according to claim 46, further comprising means for assigning children. An electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 1. 50. A controller for synchronizing clocks at the node; Means for transmitting a synchronization signal with a synchronization frame, wherein The sequence of time slots to which a node can respond in the appropriate time slot Subsequently, each node determines its time slot according to its current alternate identifier. 50. The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 46, wherein: 51. The controller is configured to run on a node such as a node that is inactive. Characterized by comprising means for including an auxiliary time slot for random use The electronic shooting game device according to any one of claims 46 to 50. 52. Each node comprises means for storing a configuration for later retrieval; 53. The method of claim 46, wherein the configuration is identified by a unique reference. The electronic shooting game device according to any one of the above. 53. The communication means is programmed to communicate at a high sequence change speed. Claims characterized by comprising infrared communication means comprising a receiver and a transmitter selected Item 53. The electronic shooting game device according to any one of Items 1 to 52. 54. 54. The system of claim 53, wherein the speed has a frequency of 2 seconds or more. Electronic shooting game device. 55. The transmitter encodes a portion of the transmitted signal and transmits the subsequent signal. Claims characterized by comprising means for changing the coding method for the message. 53. The electronic shooting game device according to 53 or 54. 56. The code is based on the use of coded bytes retrieved from an indexed table. The next byte of the table is used for each subsequent communication The electronic shooting game apparatus according to claim 55, wherein: 57. 56. The checksum of the transmitted signal is coded. 56. The electronic shooting game device according to 56. 58. The mobile player unit has an electron gun. 58. The electronic shooting game device according to any one of 1 to 57. 59. The mobile player unit includes a body unit. The electronic shooting game device according to any one of claims 1 to 58. 60. The body unit has an integrated indication that the player has been fired 60. The electronic device according to claim 59, further comprising a body protective shell having means. Shooting game equipment. 61. Wherein the controller has a real-time communication controller The electronic shooting game apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 60. 62. A controller for controlling the progress of the game in the game arena,   At least one mobile player unit;   Means for defining a unique zone within the game arena in which the game is performed. The stadium consists of a plurality of zone control units. Means for sensing the position of the layer unit;   The zone control unit, the mobile player unit and the controller A game communication means for controlling real-time communication between the trollers An electronic shooting game device characterized by the above-mentioned.