WO2000010662A1 - Appareil de divertissement numerique interactif - Google Patents

Appareil de divertissement numerique interactif Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2000010662A1
WO2000010662A1 PCT/US1999/019397 US9919397W WO0010662A1 WO 2000010662 A1 WO2000010662 A1 WO 2000010662A1 US 9919397 W US9919397 W US 9919397W WO 0010662 A1 WO0010662 A1 WO 0010662A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
display
mode
user
providing
response
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1999/019397
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2000010662A9 (fr
Inventor
Russell Hornsby
Christian M. Mouser
Jason E. Emde
Original Assignee
Trendmasters, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Trendmasters, Inc. filed Critical Trendmasters, Inc.
Priority to US09/462,709 priority Critical patent/US6527610B1/en
Priority to AU56909/99A priority patent/AU5690999A/en
Priority to EP99943911A priority patent/EP1023115A4/fr
Priority to GB9924635A priority patent/GB2340626B/en
Publication of WO2000010662A1 publication Critical patent/WO2000010662A1/fr
Publication of WO2000010662A9 publication Critical patent/WO2000010662A9/fr

Links

Classifications

    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04GELECTRONIC TIME-PIECES
    • G04G9/00Visual time or date indication means
    • G04G9/0064Visual time or date indication means in which functions not related to time can be displayed
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63FCARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/20Input arrangements for video game devices
    • A63F13/21Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types
    • A63F13/212Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types using sensors worn by the player, e.g. for measuring heart beat or leg activity
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63FCARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/20Input arrangements for video game devices
    • A63F13/21Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types
    • A63F13/217Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types using environment-related information, i.e. information generated otherwise than by the player, e.g. ambient temperature or humidity
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63FCARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/50Controlling the output signals based on the game progress
    • A63F13/54Controlling the output signals based on the game progress involving acoustic signals, e.g. for simulating revolutions per minute [RPM] dependent engine sounds in a driving game or reverberation against a virtual wall
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63FCARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/80Special adaptations for executing a specific game genre or game mode
    • A63F13/825Fostering virtual characters
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63FCARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/90Constructional details or arrangements of video game devices not provided for in groups A63F13/20 or A63F13/25, e.g. housing, wiring, connections or cabinets
    • A63F13/92Video game devices specially adapted to be hand-held while playing
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63FCARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F9/00Games not otherwise provided for
    • A63F9/001Games or toys connected to, or combined with, other objects; Objects with a second use as a toy or game
    • A63F2009/0049Objects with a second use as toy or game
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63FCARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2250/00Miscellaneous game characteristics
    • A63F2250/10Miscellaneous game characteristics with measuring devices
    • A63F2250/1063Timers
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63FCARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/10Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game characterized by input arrangements for converting player-generated signals into game device control signals
    • A63F2300/1012Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game characterized by input arrangements for converting player-generated signals into game device control signals involving biosensors worn by the player, e.g. for measuring heart beat, limb activity
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63FCARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/20Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game characterised by details of the game platform
    • A63F2300/204Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game characterised by details of the game platform the platform being a handheld device
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63FCARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/60Methods for processing data by generating or executing the game program
    • A63F2300/6063Methods for processing data by generating or executing the game program for sound processing
    • A63F2300/6081Methods for processing data by generating or executing the game program for sound processing generating an output signal, e.g. under timing constraints, for spatialization
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63FCARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/80Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game specially adapted for executing a specific type of game
    • A63F2300/8058Virtual breeding, e.g. tamagotchi

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to amusement devices and, more particularly, to an electronic, substantially digital, interactive amusement device designed to be worn or carried by a user.
  • Amusement devices have, of course, long been known. From simple inert objects designed to be handled by a person or passed among people, they have advanced to objects having manipulable mechanical features and, more recently, to objects having electronic features or a combination of mechanical and electronic features. Dolls or figurines provide one good
  • dolls which might include not only positionable limbs and changeable facial expressions, but also sound producing electronic systems.
  • an interactive wristwatch that used in other digital devices such as calculators.
  • an interactive wristwatch that used in other digital devices such as calculators.
  • an interactive wristwatch that used in other digital devices such as calculators.
  • an interactive wristwatch that used in other digital devices such as calculators.
  • an interactive wristwatch that used in other digital devices such as calculators.
  • an interactive wristwatch that used in other digital devices such as calculators.
  • an interactive wristwatch that used in other digital devices such as calculators.
  • an interactive wristwatch that used in other digital devices such as calculators.
  • “Tamagotchi” is a small electronic device usually hung on a necklace or key ring. It includes a housing and a display of an animated chick. The user has to "take care” of the chick by inputting signals or responding to the display, or the display will disappear.
  • a similar toy is the "GigaPound Pet” by Tiger Electronics. This toy
  • an amusement device which increases the appeal and interactivity of such devices by, for example, appearing to spontaneously produce sounds or visual effects with or without intentional input from the user or observer which provoke or require a response from a person observing the device.
  • the present invention is an interactive electronic device, largely an
  • amusement device and largely digital including a display of animated characters with sound effects housed in a unit to be worn or carried by a wearer or user.
  • effects are interactive with the wearer or user, for example, in response to wearer or user movement or selective actuation (e.g., though a button or touch panel).
  • the interactivity could be any combination of wearer or user, for example, in response to wearer or user movement or selective actuation (e.g., though a button or touch panel).
  • the interactivity could be any combination of wearer or user, for example, in response to wearer or user movement or selective actuation (e.g., though a button or touch panel).
  • sounds e.g., music or
  • the invention may take the form of a wristwatch like device and, in
  • the device may take the form of a pendant, locket, writing instrument or
  • the amusement device comprises an interactive system, in turn
  • an electronic system for use with a video monitor or display and an audio component to drive, actuate and control the display and audio components for displaying images and broadcasting sound, wherein a user of the system may interact with the system, and a software controller for carrying out the display on the monitor and the broadcast of sound in accordance with a software program stored in the software controller and in accordance with certain selected input data supplied by the user and certain additional input data stored in another system memory, wherein said certain additional input data is accessed by the software controller in response to an ambient condition.
  • the interactive device of the present invention provides and encompasses a method for controlling operation of the device comprising providing a visual output on a display, providing an audio output on an audio output device, receiving input from an input device, and controlling
  • the input device may receive input by being manipulated physically and/or intentionally, or it may receive input comprising an ambient condition and, in response to the input, the method comprises a first mode providing the
  • An advantage of the amusement device of the present invention is that it increases the appeal and interactivity of such devices by, for example, appearing to spontaneously produce
  • the present invention may include a housing taking a form similar
  • a commonplace object such as a wristwatch, pendent, fob or a writing instrument.
  • Figures 1 depicts one embodiment of the amusement device of the present invention.
  • Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 2-2 of Figure 1.
  • Figure 3 is a plan view of the invention with portions removed for clarity.
  • Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of Figure 3.
  • Figure 5 is a plan view of another embodiment of the invention with portions removed for clarity.
  • Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of Figure 5.
  • Figure 7 is an exploded assembly view of the embodiment of Figure 1.
  • Figure 8a-c depicts one operation of the present invention.
  • Figure 9a-c depicts the operation depicted in Figure 8a-c, with the face of the device removed for clarity.
  • Figure 10 is an exploded assembly view of one embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 11 depicts another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 12 is a plan view of the embodiment of Figure 11, with portions removed for
  • Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of Figure 11.
  • Figure 14 is an exploded assembly view of the embodiment of Figure 11.
  • Figure 15 is an exploded assembly view of another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 16 is an exploded assembly view of another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 17 is an exploded assembly view of another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 18 depicts one embodiment of a representative, exemplary electronic control
  • Figure 19 depicts another embodiment of a representative, exemplary electronic control system, comprising a microprocessor or computer controller, for use in embodiments of the present invention.
  • Figure 20 is a flow diagram illustrating operation of one embodiment of an interactive, substantially digital amusement device in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figure 21 is a flow diagram illustrating operation of another embodiment of an interactive digital amusement device.
  • Figure 22 is a flow diagram illustrating operation of another embodiment of an interactive digital amusement device.
  • Figure 23 is a flow diagram illustrating operation of another embodiment of an interactive digital amusement device.
  • electronic portions of the device may use conventional, commercially available electronic components, connectors and devices such as suitable wiring, connectors, printed circuit boards,
  • microchips speakers, lights, liquid crystal displays, audio components, inputs, outputs and the
  • materials for making components of the present invention may be selected from appropriate materials such as metal, metallic alloys,
  • Figure 1 depicts one embodiment of the present invention, an electronic amusement
  • the device 14 taking a form similar to a wristwatch.
  • the device 14 includes a body 16 releaseably mounted on or coupled to a band, or bands, 17 of flexible material for encircling a wearer's
  • the body 16 (which may be formed from a suitable plastic or plastic mixture such as a
  • polycarbonate- ABS blend has a presentation display face 19, which may carry a decal type screen or film for shaping or coloring a displayed image, includes a visual display area 20 which is capable of displaying changeable display images.
  • the display images may include a variety of
  • Figure 1 shows a presentation face 19 with a single display area 20, but more than one display area or display screen, or a split display, may be used as well.
  • the display 20 is advantageously a liquid crystal display having a selected format and size such as 32 x 32, 64 x 64, 80 x 80, 100 x 64, etc., and it may have color capability
  • the device 14 includes inputs or control keys, switches or buttons 21, 22.
  • the peripheral edge of the presentation face 19 the device 14 includes inputs or control keys, switches or buttons 21, 22.
  • buttons 23 and an immediately adjacent select button 24 Any of these buttons may be assigned a desired function or functions, and more than one function may be accomplished by a single button, for example, mode and select functions may be combined in a single button. Any of these controls or input button may be selected from a wide variety of commercially available buttons or keys, such as touch keys, used to provide electrical
  • control signals, and one or more of the selected form of input key may be assigned to additional functions, such as in changeable soft key assignments during the programming or setup of the
  • buttons One form of suitable button, and the fitting thereof to the device 14, is depicted in Figure 2.
  • One material suitable for the button is a rubber material, such as santoprene.
  • the selected button material may be formed with a lip 25 which may be preferably adhesively
  • the button material overlies a suitable contact, for example a graphite contact 26.
  • the device includes a speaker housing or grill 28 on its peripheral edge, opposite the
  • the speaker grill is provided with openings or vents 29 suitable for emitting sound, and its sides may be provided with bumps 30 or texture to facilitate manipulating the device 19 as explained below (with reference to Figures 8a-c and 9a-c).
  • the vents may be
  • Figure 7 is an exploded assembly view of one embodiment of the device 14, and depicts that the device includes the top presentation face 19, a generally or substantially clear and scratch
  • a suitable speaker 35 such as a 28 mm speaker
  • batteries 36 for providing a
  • a face bottom 37 a face bottom 37
  • a base 38 a battery cover 39 which may be sealed by a suitable O-ring type seal or gasket and is connected to the face bottom by suitable screws.
  • This generally sandwich-like assembly is joined or coupled by the joining the face top 19 and face bottom 37, then snap fitting the face assembly, i.e., the top and bottom containing the lens, etc., to the base
  • the "arrowhead" snap fitting 40 of the face bottom 37 enables the firm, yet rotational or spinning movement of the face assembly within or on the base 38.
  • the device 14 may be
  • Figures 3 and 4 depict the basic layout and placement of the components when
  • Figures 5 and 6 depict another basic layout wherein the three button batteries have been replaced by a single battery cell, for example a lithium cell.
  • buttons or inputs may be outlined as follows.
  • the mode button 23 toggles through available programs and features, and the select button 24 selects items.
  • Input button 22 is a "hot" key, comprising the start and stop button, the input for
  • Input button 21 is also a hot key or input, and controls the playing of another game
  • assembly can be moved in either direction for user or wearer convenience, comfort and/or
  • Figure 10 depicts an exploded assembly of one embodiment of the invention. Features in common or similar to features depicted in Figures l-9a-c are commonly referenced. The
  • depicted assembly includes an input assembly including buttons 21, 22, suitable pushers 43, O- ring type seals 44 and springs 45.
  • a lens 32 is received in the body 16.
  • pins 47 are used to couple the device 14 to the band 17.
  • a reset key 48 is located on the body 16 and sealed by an appropriate seal, for example, an O-ring type seal. Additional input/control buttons 23, 24 are also located at the side of the body 16. An LCD 33 is received in the device
  • a LCD frame member 50 and connectors 51 operably supported therein by a LCD frame member 50 and connectors 51.
  • a back cover 37 is provided.
  • a microprocessor printed circuit board 34 is operably mounted, as is a battery
  • An operating mechanism such as spring/contact assembly 55, including an appropriate number of springs 55' and a spring guiding clip 49, is provided for making or completing a solder-less speaker electrical connection between the speaker 35 and the printed
  • the clip is coupled to the printed circuit board, and includes a movable generally center portion so a user can conveniently replace the battery 36 without detaching the
  • the speaker 35 is set and mounted within the back cover 38, which is
  • FIG. 11-14 is generally similar. It includes a body 16 mounted on a band 17, and a presentation face 19, with a display 20. Input buttons 21, 22 are provided as necessary to
  • buttons 23 may be any combination of buttons or assemblies.
  • Figure 14 is an exploded assembly view of this embodiment, which comprises a top presentation face 19, a main body member 57, a generally or substantially clear
  • Figure 15 is an exploded assembly depicting an embodiment substantially similar to the embodiments depicted and described with reference to Figures 11-14, and generally similar to
  • the depicted assembly includes inputs or controls 21, 22, 23 which may be similar to those described above.
  • a lens 32 is received in the body 16, which is closed at the
  • a liquid crystal display (“LC”) 33 is received in the device 14, and operably supported therein by a LCD frame
  • a microprocessor printed circuit board 34 is operably mounted, as is a battery 36.
  • the speaker 35 is set and mounted within the back cover 38, which is sealed by
  • Figure 16 is an exploded assembly view depicting another embodiment of the present invention wherein the invention takes the form of a pendent or broach. This embodiment
  • the housing includes an opening which is occupied by a lens 32, and another opening
  • a touch pad input 65 occupied by a touch pad input 65. It houses a LCD 66, supported by an LCD frame 67.
  • a first printed circuit board controller 69 is received in the housing. Suitable contacts 71 are provided
  • buttons such as button 74, are provided, as are openings suitable for receiving the buttons.
  • a second printed circuit board 76 is mounted.
  • a suitable audio speaker 35 is provided. The assembled device may be suspended by a suitable
  • Figure 17 is an exploded assembly depicting another embodiment of the present
  • An ink assembly 81 is provided and includes a
  • a second pen case member 83 is provided for attachment to the first case member 79 to form a housing.
  • a battery or battery assembly 36 is received in the housing and covered by a battery cover 84.
  • a lens 32 similar to those described above is
  • circuit boards 87, 87a are mounted in the housing, as is a speaker 35. Board 87a operably
  • a gravity switch assembly 87b which may be provided for actuating an unprompted reaction, e.g., a sound or animation, based on the orientation or position
  • the operable components for example, the inputs, circuit boards, LCD,
  • speaker and battery are electrically coupled by suitable inputs, contacts and connectors.
  • the embodiments of the amusement device of the present invention include a suitable data and control operating or processing system or systems, typically in the form of a computer or one or more microprocessor boards or chips (for example, integrated circuits 34 or printed
  • circuit boards 87 contained within the housing or case of the various embodiments of the device.
  • These printed circuit boards or chips may be configured as desired and convenient for particular embodiments and functions, and may be constructed and located as suitable for particular embodiments.
  • Figure 18 depicts one representative selection and arrangement of the electronics or
  • a plurality of selected inputs 58 e.g., buttons, gravity sensor/switch, keyboard or joystick,
  • a microprocessor 59 operably connected to a microprocessor 59, as are a plurality of selected outputs, in this embodiment, an LCD screen 32 and speaker 35.
  • a reset key is operably connected to a microprocessor 59, as are a plurality of selected outputs, in this embodiment, an LCD screen 32 and speaker 35.
  • the microprocessor contains the LCD screen driver and the digital audio all in or on
  • RAM RAM, etc.
  • RAM may involve the use of multi-chip sets. For example, and the number and the number and the number and
  • the audio may reside on one
  • chip and the LCD screen may be driven by, for example, three other chips with a fourth chip being the controller for issuing commands to the other three chips.
  • Figure 19 depicts another representative selection and arrangement of the electronics or electronic circuitry and related components which may be used in embodiments of the invention.
  • the depicted control and data processing system 90 includes a suitable power supply 181, typically a battery or a direct current supply of a suitable voltage (e.g., the battery or battery
  • Power is supplied to a power distribution and sensor electronics control circuit 184.
  • Control circuit 184 can be one of several commercially available power switching and control
  • circuits and may be provided in the form of a circuit or circuit board which is detachable, and
  • Power control circuit 184 may be connected to a first input control switch 182 and a second input control switch 183, or to as many switches as are desired or necessary.
  • the switches may be operated by inputs such as inputs 21, 22 23, 24, provided on the housings of the various embodiments of the present invention. In one embodiment, for example, one switch may
  • system 90 can include default settings or subroutines.
  • Fig. 19 also depicts a controller board, circuit or chip 185 which includes a central
  • microprocessor (not shown) and related components well-known in the industry as computers or
  • printed circuit boards for example, four or eight bit microprocessors such as those made and offered for sale by Elan Microelectronics Corporation and others, and related memory (not
  • a variety of different configurations and types of memory devices can be connected to a suitable pc or board as is well-known in the art.
  • a panel display control board
  • the board 188 typically would be connected or operably coupled to the board 185, for example in expansion
  • Display control board 188 is capable of controlling the images
  • the display control board 188 is connected to one or more user interface circuits 196, which show the display station. Additionally, the display control board
  • This arrangement also allows the display control boards to provide necessary image display data to additional display electronic drive circuits 192, 195, 199
  • the display electronic drive circuits just described may have associated back lights (or other suitable enhancements) 193.
  • the circuit board 185 may include a serial port 187 to allow data to be programmed or downloaded. This allows performance data to be analyzed in various ways using added detail, or by providing integration with data from other devices so that performance problems can be identified and eliminated. It also allows monitoring of use and accuracy on a routine basis. In
  • performance requirements, user use, responses, performance and/or skill can be varied or manipulated, recorded and displayed, or downloaded.
  • Fig. 19 further depicts that a keyboard connection port 186 may be provided to couple the pc or microprocessor of the present invention to a larger format microprocessor or computer and
  • keyboard (not shown) to facilitate use, programming and servicing of the system 90. It also shows a number of optional sensor interface connections 191 or control input interfaces 178, 179 for sensing of ambient conditions or direct input through the use of inputs (such as buttons 21,
  • the processor or controller 90 includes software or programming
  • the processor 90 includes suitable operational modules for performing a number of data processing function in connection with the selected and preferred characters.
  • One function is receiving user input and translating it into a selected action of the display.
  • Other representative modules for performing a number of data processing function in connection with the selected and preferred characters.
  • functions include, but are not limited to, producing and/or controlling an audio output, both or selectively in response to a sensed ambient condition or stimulus or in response to user input,
  • processor 90 implemented in software or firmware for execution in embodiments of the present invention by a suitable processor or control circuit 90. Upon execution of the functions, processor 90 responds
  • the device including a processor circuit 90 and associated electronics, may be embodied within a
  • Figure 20 is a flow diagram 200 illustration operation of another embodiment of an
  • Device 217 includes a display 218, typically implemented with an LCD screen. The user may interact with device 217 by manipulating an
  • buttons 201, 202 and 203 buttons 201, 202 and 203.
  • a user selects one or more of the buttons 201, 202 and 203.
  • buttons by depressing them to activate a switch Other types of input devices may be used, such as touch-sensitive elements, voice activation, infra-red, as well as downloadable devices for
  • a user may turn device 217 on or off by selecting and
  • buttons 201 and 202, and button 203 simultaneously for five seconds, for example (step
  • Device 217 may alternatively include a separate on/off switch or button. Upon turning on device 217, it enters an idle mode 214. A user may manipulate buttons 201 and 202 (and/or other inputs, as necessary or desired) while device 217 is in idle mode 214 in order to operate
  • device 217 in different modes. Upon selecting button 201, for example, device 217 may enter a
  • time display mode 205 in which a time is displayed on display 218.
  • device 217 may enter a date display mode 206 in which a date is displayed on display 218, which may include a month and day as shown, as well
  • time mode 205 or date display mode 206 the user may set a displayed time and date by simultaneously selecting buttons 201, 202 in order to
  • a user may set the time and date by
  • buttons to increment a current digit and select in order to move the display to the next digit in order to set that digit and to save the settings after selection of a last digit.
  • current digit may be indicated by blinking the digit.
  • a user While in the idle mode 214, or other mode, a user may select a button in order to activate
  • a play mode 207 and view an animation on display 218. While in play mode 207, a user may select a button in order to play the next animation (step 209). While in play mode 207, an animation is displayed on display 218, and selection of one of the input buttons, for example,
  • button 202 repeatedly causes a series of animations to be displayed on display 218 in step 209.
  • the animations may be displayed in a particular order upon repeated selection of a button or in a
  • the animations may include a graphical display, and they may be accompanied by an audio output, such as music
  • a user may select or press a button, button 201, for example, in order to activate the idle sound and/or display setting mode 214.
  • a user may select a button, for example button 202, in order to activate or deactivate the audio output.
  • selection of an appropriate button may change the sound setting between on and off, as may be indicated on display 218, and selection of another button may save the current setting.
  • the device 217 may be configured to remain in a selected mode and only return to idle mode 214 upon selection of a particular button or combination of the
  • buttons 202 and 204 While in idle mode 214, the user may select one or more of the button inputs in order to activate a stop watch function, animation or message 213. For example, selection of button 202
  • stop watch function 213 may cause activation of the stop watch function 213, which may be implemented as a series of stored prerecorded audio counting or countdown messages or an incrementing, digital or analog
  • buttons 203 may cause activation of an alarm function 219, which may be implemented as a series of prerecorded messages providing advice-
  • the alarm functions 219 may be triggered by an ambient condition, such as light or dark, or they may randomly selected. Detection of the ambient condition may occur through use
  • Processor 90 may process the detected ambient condition or a selected setting, under software or firmware control, in order to select a particular
  • a value of the detected ambient condition may be compared with known values or thresholds associated with particular messages.
  • value or threshold may be selected or may be triggered automatically.
  • Figure 21 is a flow diagram 300 illustration operation of another embodiment of an
  • Device 317 includes a display 318, typically implemented with an LCD screen.
  • the user may interact with device 317 by manipulating an input device, implemented with buttons 301, 302, and 303.
  • an input device implemented with buttons 301, 302, and 303.
  • buttons 301, 302, and 303 In particular, a user selects one or more of the buttons by depressing them to activate a switch.
  • Other types of input devices may be used, such as touch-sensitive elements or voice activation.
  • a user may turn device 317 on or off by selecting and holding all three buttons 301, 302, and 303 simultaneously for five seconds, for example (step
  • Device 317 may alternatively include a separate on/off switch or button. Upon turning on device 317, it enters an idle mode 304. A user may manipulate buttons 301, 302, and 303 while
  • device 317 is in idle mode 304 in order to operate device 317 in different modes.
  • device 317 enters a time display mode 305 in which a time is displayed on display 318.
  • device 317 Upon selecting button 301 while in time display mode 305, device 317 enters a date display
  • a date is displayed on display 318, which may include a month and day as shown or other types of date information. While in time mode 305 or date display mode 306, the user may set a displayed time and date by simultaneously selecting buttons 302 and 303 in order
  • a user may set the time
  • a current digit may be indicated by blinking the digit.
  • a user may select button 301 in order to activate a play
  • mode 307 and view an animation on display 318. While in play mode 307, a user may select button 302 in order to play the next animation (step 309). While in play mode 307, an animation
  • buttons 302 is displayed on display 318, and selection of button 302 repeatedly causes the series of animations to be displayed on display 318 in step 309.
  • the animations may be displayed in a
  • buttons 301 may be configured to activate an audio output, such as music or speech.
  • a user may select button 301 in order to activate an idle sound setting mode 308.
  • mode 308 a user may select button 302 in order to activate or deactivate the audio output.
  • selection of button 301 changes the sound setting between on and off as indicated on display 318 (step 311), and selection of button 302 saves the current setting (step 312).
  • device 317 may be configured to
  • buttons 302 and 303 While in idle mode 304, the user may select buttons 302 and 303 in order to activate an audio message. For example, selection of button 302 causes activation of an audio message,
  • magic 8-ball type response (step 313), which may be implemented as a series of
  • button 303 causes activation of other audio messages, referred to as "fortune” (step 314), which may be implemented as a series of prerecorded messages providing fortune-type or prediction-
  • Processor 90 may process the detected ambient condition, under software or firmware control, in order to select a particular audio message. For example, a value
  • the message corresponding to that value or threshold may be selected.
  • Figure 22 is a flow diagram 400 illustrating operation of another embodiment of an interactive digital amusement device 404.
  • Device 404 includes a display 405, typically implemented with an LCD display. The user may interact with device 404 by manipulating an
  • buttons 201, 202, and 203 are buttons 201, 202, and 203.
  • a user selects one or more of the buttons by depressing them to activate a switch.
  • Other types of input devices may be used, such as touch-sensitive elements or voice activation.
  • a user may turn device 404 on and off by simultaneously selecting buttons 401, 402, and 403 for five seconds, for example (step 415).
  • Device 404 may alternatively include a separate on/off switch or button.
  • device 404 Upon being turned on or first activated, device 404 enters an idle mode 406. While in idle mode 406, the user may manipulate buttons 401 and 402 in order to activate various modes. For example, selection of button 401 activates a play mode 407 in which an
  • buttons 402 while in play mode 407 causes activation of a series of stored animations on display 405.
  • the animations may be displayed in a particular order upon repeated selection of
  • the animations may include a graphical display possibly accompanied by an audio output, such as music or speech.
  • mode 409 in which a user may activate or deactivate the audio output. While in mode 409, selection of button 402 causes activation of settings modes 410 and 411. In modes 410 and 411,
  • selection of button 401 causes selection of a sound setting in order to turn on or off the sound as indicated on display 405, and selection of button 402 saves the settings and returns to idle mode
  • selection of button 402 causes activation of a display time mode 412, in which a time is displayed on display 405. While in display time mode 412, selection of
  • button 402 causes activation of a display date mode 413 in which a date is displayed on display
  • mode 412 or display date mode 413 the user may set the time and date, as shown in mode 414, by selecting button 401 in order to adjust setting of a current digit, and select button 402 to
  • a current digit may be indicated by blinking the digit.
  • This message may be implemented with prerecorded audio messages selected based upon detection of an ambient condition or
  • the ambient condition may be sensed using control input interfaces 178 and 179 as identified in this specification.
  • Processor 90 may process the detected ambient condition,
  • a value of the detected ambient condition may be compared with known values or thresholds
  • the message corresponding to that value or threshold may be selected.
  • flow diagram 500 a user may turn device 517 on or off by
  • buttons 501, 502, and 503 simultaneously for five seconds, for
  • Device 517 may alternatively include a separate on off switch or button.
  • buttons 501 Upon turning on device 517, it enters an idle mode 504. A user may manipulate buttons 501,
  • device 517 Upon selecting button 501, device 517 enters a time display mode 505 in which a time is displayed on display 518. Upon selecting button 501 while in time display mode 505, device 517
  • a date display mode 506 in which a date is displayed on display 518, which may include a month and day as shown or other types of date information. While in time mode 505 or date
  • display mode 506 the user may set a displayed time and date by simultaneously selecting buttons 502 and 503 in order to activate a set time/date mode 515 (step 510). As shown in mode 515, a user may set the time and date by selecting button 501 to increment a current digit and select
  • buttons 502 in order to move the display to the next digit in order to set that digit and to save the settings after selection of a last digit.
  • a current digit may be indicated by blinking the digit.
  • a user may select button 501 in order to activate a play mode 507 and view an animation on display 518. While in play mode 507, a user may select button 501 in order to activate a play mode 507 and view an animation on display 518. While in play mode 507, a user may select button 501 in order to activate a play mode 507 and view an animation on display 518. While in play mode 507, a user may select button 501 in order to activate a play mode 507 and view an animation on display 518. While in play mode 507, a user may select
  • button 502 in order to play the next animation (step 509). While in play mode 507, an animation is displayed on display 518, and selection of button 502 repeatedly causes the series of
  • the animations may be displayed in a particular order upon repeated selection of button 502 or in a random order.
  • the animations may include a graphical display possibly accompanied by an audio output, such as music or speech.
  • a user While in play mode 507, a user may select button 501 in order to activate an idle sound setting mode 508. In mode 508, a user may select button 502 in order to activate or deactivate
  • selection of button 501 changes the sound setting between on and off as indicated on display 518 (step 511), and selection of button 502 saves the current setting
  • step 512 While in modes 505-508, if no button 501-503 was selected within five seconds, for
  • device 517 returns to idle mode 504.
  • device 517 may be configured to remain in a selected mode and only return to idle mode 504 upon selection of a particular button 501-503 or combination of the buttons .
  • buttons 502 and 503 While in idle mode 504, the user may select buttons 502 and 503 in order to activate an audio message. For example, selection of button 502 causes activation of an audio message,
  • step 513 which may be implemented as a series of stored prerecorded audio messages selected based upon detection of an ambient condition or randomly selected.
  • selection of button 503 causes activation of other audio messages, referred to as
  • step 514 which may be implemented as a series of prerecorded messages providing
  • advice-type messages and selected based upon detection of an ambient condition or randomly
  • Detection of the ambient condition may occur through use of interfaces 178 and 179, as identified in this specification.
  • Processor 90 may process the detected ambient condition, under software or firmware control, in order to select a particular audio or visual message. For example, a value of the detected ambient condition may be compared with known values or thresholds associated with particular messages. When the value matches a known value or is within a particular threshold, the message corresponding to that value or threshold may be selected.
  • displays and messages e.g., screen-saver type displays or audio messages, may be incorporated, and triggered automatically or selectively.
  • Luminous or "glow-in-dark” features may be provided, and the various embodiments may be provided, and the various embodiments may be provided.

Abstract

L'invention concerne un appareil (16) numérique, électronique et interactif, à savoir un appareil de divertissement au sens large, comprenant un système d'affichage (20) de personnages animés avec effets sonores logé dans un dispositif (19) à porter par l'utilisateur. Les personnages et les effets sonores sont interactifs avec l'utilisateur, par exemple en réponse à un mouvement ou une activation sélective induit(e) par l'utilisateur (par le biais d'un bouton ou d'un écran tactile, par exemple), l'interactivité pouvant être également sensible à des sons ambiants (à la musique ou à la voix, par exemple) ou à des mouvements.
PCT/US1999/019397 1998-05-28 1999-08-25 Appareil de divertissement numerique interactif WO2000010662A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US09/462,709 US6527610B1 (en) 1998-05-28 1999-08-25 Wearable interactive digital amusement device
AU56909/99A AU5690999A (en) 1998-08-25 1999-08-25 Interactive digital amusement device
EP99943911A EP1023115A4 (fr) 1998-08-26 1999-08-25 Appareil de divertissement numerique interactif
GB9924635A GB2340626B (en) 1998-08-26 1999-08-25 Interactive digital wristwatch

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US9787198P 1998-08-26 1998-08-26
US60/097,871 1998-08-26

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2000010662A1 true WO2000010662A1 (fr) 2000-03-02
WO2000010662A9 WO2000010662A9 (fr) 2001-02-01

Family

ID=22265534

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US1999/019397 WO2000010662A1 (fr) 1998-05-28 1999-08-25 Appareil de divertissement numerique interactif

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP1023115A4 (fr)
AU (1) AU5690999A (fr)
GB (1) GB2340626B (fr)
WO (1) WO2000010662A1 (fr)

Cited By (2)

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EP1383015A2 (fr) * 2002-07-19 2004-01-21 Asulab S.A. Pièce d'horlogerie électronique comportant un mode de jeu
EP1519316A2 (fr) * 2003-08-27 2005-03-30 Sony Corporation Dispositif et procédé de production d'images, logiciel et support d'enregistrement lisible par ordinateur

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US9937420B2 (en) * 2015-09-29 2018-04-10 Sony Interactive Entertainment Inc. Method and apparatus for the projection of images, video, and/or holograms generated by a computer simulation

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US5265009A (en) * 1984-04-09 1993-11-23 Colavita Samuel E Wristwatch game calculator
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US4802879A (en) * 1986-05-05 1989-02-07 Tiger Electronics, Inc. Action figure toy with graphics display
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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1383015A2 (fr) * 2002-07-19 2004-01-21 Asulab S.A. Pièce d'horlogerie électronique comportant un mode de jeu
EP1383015A3 (fr) * 2002-07-19 2008-12-17 Asulab S.A. Pièce d'horlogerie électronique comportant un mode de jeu
EP1519316A2 (fr) * 2003-08-27 2005-03-30 Sony Corporation Dispositif et procédé de production d'images, logiciel et support d'enregistrement lisible par ordinateur
EP1519316A3 (fr) * 2003-08-27 2006-06-07 Sony Corporation Dispositif et procédé de production d'images, logiciel et support d'enregistrement lisible par ordinateur

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1023115A1 (fr) 2000-08-02
GB9924635D0 (en) 1999-12-22
EP1023115A4 (fr) 2002-06-05
WO2000010662A9 (fr) 2001-02-01
GB2340626A8 (en) 2000-02-24
GB2340626A (en) 2000-02-23
AU5690999A (en) 2000-03-14
GB2340626B (en) 2000-09-13

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