WO2012052732A1 - Accessoires tactiles pour un dispositif à écran tactile - Google Patents

Accessoires tactiles pour un dispositif à écran tactile Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2012052732A1
WO2012052732A1 PCT/GB2011/051438 GB2011051438W WO2012052732A1 WO 2012052732 A1 WO2012052732 A1 WO 2012052732A1 GB 2011051438 W GB2011051438 W GB 2011051438W WO 2012052732 A1 WO2012052732 A1 WO 2012052732A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
touch screen
activator
interactor
housing
gaming
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2011/051438
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Stuart Browning
Yan Le Bouedec
Original Assignee
Blue Sky Designs Limited
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
Priority claimed from GBGB1017596.6A external-priority patent/GB201017596D0/en
Priority claimed from GBGB1112252.0A external-priority patent/GB201112252D0/en
Application filed by Blue Sky Designs Limited filed Critical Blue Sky Designs Limited
Publication of WO2012052732A1 publication Critical patent/WO2012052732A1/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/20—Input arrangements for video game devices
    • A63F13/21—Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types
    • A63F13/214—Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types for locating contacts on a surface, e.g. floor mats or touch pads
    • A63F13/2145—Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types for locating contacts on a surface, e.g. floor mats or touch pads the surface being also a display device, e.g. touch screens
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/90—Constructional details or arrangements of video game devices not provided for in groups A63F13/20 or A63F13/25, e.g. housing, wiring, connections or cabinets
    • A63F13/98—Accessories, i.e. detachable arrangements optional for the use of the video game device, e.g. grip supports of game controllers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/25—Output arrangements for video game devices
    • A63F13/28—Output arrangements for video game devices responding to control signals received from the game device for affecting ambient conditions, e.g. for vibrating players' seats, activating scent dispensers or affecting temperature or light
    • A63F13/285—Generating tactile feedback signals via the game input device, e.g. force feedback
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/80—Special adaptations for executing a specific game genre or game mode
    • A63F13/803—Driving vehicles or craft, e.g. cars, airplanes, ships, robots or tanks
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/80—Special adaptations for executing a specific game genre or game mode
    • A63F13/818—Fishing
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/80—Special adaptations for executing a specific game genre or game mode
    • A63F13/837—Shooting of targets
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/90—Constructional details or arrangements of video game devices not provided for in groups A63F13/20 or A63F13/25, e.g. housing, wiring, connections or cabinets
    • A63F13/92—Video game devices specially adapted to be hand-held while playing
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/10—Features 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
    • A63F2300/1043—Features 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 being characterized by constructional details
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/10—Features 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
    • A63F2300/1062—Features 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 being specially adapted to a type of game, e.g. steering wheel
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/10—Features 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
    • A63F2300/1068—Features 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 being specially adapted to detect the point of contact of the player on a surface, e.g. floor mat, touch pad
    • A63F2300/1075—Features 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 being specially adapted to detect the point of contact of the player on a surface, e.g. floor mat, touch pad using a touch screen
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/20—Features 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
    • A63F2300/204—Features 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
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/80—Features 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
    • A63F2300/8017—Driving on land or water; Flying
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/80—Features 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
    • A63F2300/8035—Virtual fishing
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/80—Features 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
    • A63F2300/8076—Shooting

Definitions

  • touch screen devices are becoming increasingly popular. Possibly the most common examples are touch screen mobile communication devices (mobile phones), one example of which is the Apple TM l-PhoneTM.
  • touch screen mobile communication devices are now available under various brands using various operating systems such as AndroidTM, WindowsTM and the AppleTM operating system.
  • Such devices have a display screen which is sensitive to touch.
  • the touch screen is used for various purposes.
  • the touch screen provides "soft" keys that react to touch in the same way as a press of a button on the device.
  • many touch screen devices can be configured to provide a "soft" keyboard, thereby avoiding the need for hard keys and saving space on the device.
  • More recently touch screen devices have been developed that can detect multiple touches at different locations and gestures such as dragging a finger across the screen and placing two fingers on the screen and moving them apart or together.
  • touch sensitive panel there are also devices that have a touch sensitive panel that is separate from a display screen.
  • An example is a lap top computer that has a touch sensitive panel for controlling the position of a cursor on a keyboard.
  • the accessories described in the following are primarily intended for use with devices having touch sensitive display screens but they may be suitable for use with devices having other kinds of touch sensitive panel.
  • touch screen devices With the proliferation and increasing complexity of touch screen devices of various sizes, the major difference between a mobile communication device and a portable computer, for example, is the fact that it is designed to be held in the hand, usually one hand. Examples of larger touch screen devices are the Apple l-PadTM and the Blackberry PlaybookTM which are generically known as tablet computing devices.
  • Touch screen devices use various methods to detect a person's input on the screen. They usually rely on detecting a change in a state at the point or area where the screen is touched. Thus some detect changes in electrical current.
  • resistive touch screens pressure, e.g. from a finger, causes conductive and resistive layers to touch each other thereby causing a change in a circuit resistance.
  • capacitive touch screens touching the screen changes the amount of charge at the point of contact. For example contact from a human finger may connect a conductive layer in the touch screen to ground.
  • the apparatus for use with a touch screen device running a gaming application, the apparatus having the form of an object associated with the game and the apparatus comprising at least one activator operable to cause a change in state at a location on the surface of the touch screen that is detectable by circuitry within the touch screen device to cause an interaction between the operation of the activator and the operation of the game.
  • the apparatus operates as a game controller. It may act as the only control for the game or there may be additional controls for the operation of the game, for example provided on touch sensitive areas not available to the apparatus or otherwise operable to control the operation of the touch screen device.
  • the apparatus can be regarded as peripheral equipment for the touch screen device.
  • the apparatus provides a physical manifestation of the object. This is in contrast with other gaming devices in which "virtual" equipment is provided to the player and is part of the scene being displayed to a player as part of the game. However it will be appreciated that virtual equipment may be provided as part of the gaming application in addition to apparatus according to this invention.
  • the interaction between the object and the gaming application is through a change in state at the surface of the touch screen.
  • gaming apparatus which transmits signals to a device running the gaming application without requiring an interaction with the touch screen.
  • the apparatus may be configured to transmit signals to the device as well as causing an interaction at the surface of the device.
  • the apparatus is external to the touch screen media player and preferably operates to cause an external effect at the surface of the touch screen whereby to cause the change in state.
  • the location on the touch screen can be a point or region on the touch screen depending on the implementation of the invention.
  • game apparatus includes toys, game such as board games, equipment required for playing games and other apparatus for use in recreational activities.
  • Some embodiments of the invention are hand held devices that support or house the touch screen device.
  • the activator is in a housing that is separate from the touch screen device.
  • apparatus for use in a shooting game.
  • Other examples include a toy fishing rod for use in a fishing game, "buzzers" for use in a quiz game, and a miniature pin ball machine for use in a pin ball game.
  • the apparatus may also be configured as a steering wheel, a wizard's wand, a golf club or the like. In each case there is a direct relationship between the nature or shape of the apparatus and the game that is being played on the device.
  • the gaming application is operable without the apparatus and the apparatus according to this invention enables additional content within the application.
  • the apparatus may be an item that in another version of the game would be available to the player as virtual equipment.
  • a player might be invited to choose a weapon and the available options might include the apparatus of the invention, i.e. a physical weapon, as well as virtual versions of various weapons.
  • the apparatus provides a physical version of equipment for use in the game.
  • the game may make available to the player a virtual version of the same equipment.
  • the apparatus might be in the form of equipment required to play the game.
  • the apparatus can provide a tactile user interface corresponding with the nature of the gaming application.
  • the change in state can be caused in various ways.
  • Embodiments may include at least one interactor configured to contact the touch screen in use.
  • the activator may then be operable to cause the change in state at the location of contact with the interactor.
  • the interactor may permanently contact the touch screen in use.
  • the apparatus may comprise means to hold the interactor in contact with the touch screen.
  • the interactor may be arranged to be brought into contact with the touch screen under operation of the activator.
  • the activator might be operable to cause a mechanical operation that brings about the change in state.
  • the operation of the activator might cause the interactor to be brought into contact with the touch screen thereby causing the change in state.
  • the actuation of the activator to generate an electrical signal that causes the interactor to be brought into contact with the screen.
  • electromechanical switch could be used to bring the interactor into contact with the screen.
  • the interactor or interaction means might be in the form of a hammer. This might tap the touch screen on operation of the activator.
  • the interactor may be pivotably mounted on the device. This is particularly suitable for apparatus in the form of a gun but it may have applications in many other forms of game apparatus.
  • the activator might be operable to cause a change in state at the interactor which causes a change in state at the surface of the touch screen.
  • the activator might be operable to cause a change in voltage or current at the interactor where it contacts the touch screen.
  • Software running on the touch screen device may be configured to react according to the manner of operation of the activator rather than simply whether it is operated or not.
  • apparatus configured to transmit a signal representing the manner of operation of the actuator, for example how hard an actuator was pushed or pulled, how fast or far a rotatable actuator was caused to rotate, the length of slide of a slide actuator.
  • a signal representing the manner of operation of the actuator, for example how hard an actuator was pushed or pulled, how fast or far a rotatable actuator was caused to rotate, the length of slide of a slide actuator.
  • actuator that are not simple on/off or bi-state actuators.
  • Apparatus according to this invention may include any kind of multi-state actuator or other actuator that is operable in multiple ways.
  • touch screen devices In certain circumstances it may be useful to operate a touch screen remotely rather than touching the screen itself. This opens up a wide range of additional possibilities for the use and functionality of touch screen devices.
  • the apparatus comprises at least one interactor configured to be in contact with the touch screen in use and at least one activator configured to be positioned outside the area of the touch screen, the activator being operable to change a state at the interactor, or the part of the screen contacted by the interactor, that is detectable by circuitry within the device.
  • the interactor can be maintained in contact with the screen throughout the operation of the activator.
  • the interactor in use of the apparatus, whether the activator is actuated or not, the interactor is permanently in contact with the screen.
  • the interactor remains in contact with the screen throughout cycles of operation of the activator.
  • touch screen accessories which are themselves actuable to touch a screen.
  • Such accessories do not have a interactor permanently in contact with the touch screen.
  • the interactor can comprise a conductive surface arranged to contact the touch screen in use.
  • the apparatus can be used in conjunction with a gaming application running on the touch screen device.
  • the application can be configured in various ways to respond to changes in state at the interactor or interactors on the touch screen.
  • the actuation of the activator may directly cause the change in state of the interactor. This could be the case for example if the activator was electrically connected to the interactor. Alternatively the actuation of the activator may cause the generation of a signal which is translated to a change in state at the interactor.
  • the activator may comprise an outer conductive surface.
  • the activator may be actuable by touch. For example it may simply comprise a conductive surface which is electrically connected to the interactor which is itself conductive. When the conductive surface is touched by a human the contact may be grounded thereby changing the voltage present at the interactor.
  • the interactor and the activator may be provided with respective conductive surfaces and may be arranged such that a conductive path between the respective conductive surfaces is completed when the activator is actuated.
  • the actuation of the activator directly causes the change in state at the interactor.
  • the interactor and the activator may be wirelessy connected.
  • a receiver coupled to the interactor could be equipped to convert the received signal to a change in state, such as voltage, at the interactor.
  • the wireless connection could be via BluetoothTM or any other short range radio link.
  • the activator may be actuable by mechanical movement of the activator or part of the activator.
  • the activator may comprise a member actuable by pressure.
  • the apparatus may comprise a housing and the activator may comprise a member which is moveable under pressure with respect to the housing.
  • the housing for the activator may be completely separate from the touch screen device or it may house or otherwise
  • the activator may be actuable by a rotating motion.
  • the apparatus may comprise a housing or other support for the touch screen device and the activator may comprise a member that is rotatable with respect to the housing.
  • the apparatus comprises multiple conductive contacts with respective activators.
  • the activators could be actuable in different ways. This could be used to provide a "bop-it" type accessory for use with a touch screen device.
  • Several activators operable in different ways could be provided on the same housing.
  • the interactor and the activator could be wirelessly connected.
  • the apparatus comprises an electrically conductive path between the interactor and the activator.
  • the conductive path could be in the form of a cable.
  • the conductive path could be in the form of a conductive track or other conductive connection.
  • the interactor could be formed in an overlay for the touch screen.
  • the overlay may form part of a housing or cover for the touch screen device.
  • the apparatus may comprise multiple interactors.
  • the apparatus may also comprise multiple activators. At least two activators may be provided in separate housings. This would be particularly useful in a gaming device in which each participant may be provided with an activator.
  • a sound could be generated in response to activation of an activator. This could be part of the gaming application so that the sound comes from the touch screen device. Alternatively the apparatus could be configured to generate a sound on activation of the activator. In the case of multiple activators each one could generate a different sound.
  • the apparatus may comprise a support or stand for supporting the touch screen either upright or inclined with respect to horizontal. In versions of the apparatus which house or frame the touch screen device this may simply be in the form of a protrusion on the housing which enables the touch screen to be inclined with respect to the surface on which the housing sits.
  • the housing may be in the form of an elastomeric cover or sleeve for part of the device, usually at least the edges.
  • the activator or activators may need to be made of more rigid material.
  • Apparatus as described above may comprise a single piece of apparatus comprising multiple interactors and multiple activators. This therefore provides a self contained device for enhancing the operation and enjoyment of a touch screen device.
  • the apparatus comprises a chassis with a housing or other support on one part of the chassis for a touch screen device and one or more activators on another part of the chassis remote from the housing or support.
  • a toy gun in which the touch screen device is positioned at the gun sighting and the activator is in the form of the gun trigger.
  • Software running on the touch screen device may be configured to react according to the manner of operation of the activator rather than simply whether it is actuated or not.
  • some forms of apparatus are configured to transmit a signal representing the manner of operation of the activator. For example, how hard an activator was pushed or pulled, how fast or far a rotatable activator was caused to rotate, the length of slide of a slide activator. This might be achieved by having a sensor or transducer associated with the activator which measures an attribute associated with the actuation. Attributes might include one or more of pressure, speed, direction, length, amount of rotation and others.
  • the sensor signals will be received by logic circuitry that will determine at which interactor the change in state is to occur. Software running on the touch screen can then react according to the location of a change in state, which indirectly depends on how the activator was activated.
  • the interaction between the interactor and the touch screen can be configured to depend on a signal indicating the manner of activation of the activator.
  • Known touch screen devices are able to detect the difference between a light or soft touch on the screen and a short or prolonged touch.
  • the apparatus may be configured to enable the interactor to interact with the touch screen in multiple ways depending on the manner of activation of the activator.
  • Apparatus as described above can be used to adapt a touch screen device for use by multiple operators. For example an operator who finds the touch areas on a touch screen key board too small could be provided with an external device with larger "keys" for typing.
  • This example would usually have a set of activators corresponding to soft keys on the screen in which the relative positions of the activators are different from the relative positions of the soft keys. They may simply be further apart or they be arranged in a manner that is different for the convenience of the user.
  • Such a device could be used to convert a QWERTY keyboard to another layout such as AZERTY for example. All manner of external devices for use with a touch screen device may operate in the manner described above using one or more interactors in contact with the device and "remote" actuation.
  • the apparatus comprises a chassis with a housing or other support on one part of the chassis for a touch screen device and one or more activators on another part of the chassis remote from the housing or support.
  • each activator is spaced apart from the or each interactor.
  • the activators and interactors may communicate via wired or wireless channels on a one to one basis or in any permutation as discussed above.
  • the or each activator is spaced apart from the or each actuator by at least 10 centimetres.
  • the or each activator is spaced apart from the or each actuator by at least 20 centimetres.
  • the or each activator is spaced apart from the or each actuator by at least 30 centimetres. In preferred embodiments, the or each activator is spaced apart from the or each actuator by at least 40 centimetres.
  • the or each activator is spaced apart from the or each actuator by at least 50 centimetres.
  • apparatus according to the invention may have multiple activators space at various distances from the interactor or interactors with which they are associated.
  • software running on the touch screen device may be configured to react according to the manner of operation of the activator rather than simply whether it is actuated or not. Therefore some forms of apparatus according to the invention are configured to transmit to the interactor a signal representing the manner of operation of the activator. For example how hard an activator was pushed or pulled, how fast or far a rotatable activator was caused to rotate, the length of slide of a slide activator.
  • an activator might be capable of a hard, medium or soft press and separate activators might be provided for each of these possibilities.
  • additional circuitry is provided in the form of sensors and/or logic between the one or more actuators and the one or more interactors.
  • kit comprising apparatus according to any preceding claim and a computer readable medium bearing computer readable instructions which when implemented on a processor of a touch screen device cause information displayed on the device to respond to the activation of the activator or to behave according to the requirements of the apparatus. It will be appreciated that some forms of apparatus to be described will require special applications running on the device to enable the functionality of the apparatus to be realised.
  • Figure 1 is a side elevation of a first embodiment of apparatus shown in use with a touch screen device with the activator in the normal position
  • Figure 2 is a side elevation corresponding to figure 1 with the activator in the actuated position
  • Figure 3 is a perspective view of apparatus similar to that shown in figures 1 and 2 configured for multiple activators;
  • Figure 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of apparatus in which the activator is in the form of a joystick
  • Figure 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of apparatus configured to house a touch screen device and being operable in the manner of a pinball game;
  • Figure 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of apparatus configured to house a touch screen device and being operable as a fishing toy
  • Figure 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of apparatus configured to house the touch screen device and being operable as a "follow the instructions" type toy
  • Figure 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of apparatus configured as an attachment for a touch screen device to convert the device into a hand-held gaming device.
  • Figure 9 is a perspective view of a toy in the shape of a gun configured to support a touch screen device
  • Figure 10 is a top down view of a gun gaming apparatus similar to that shown in figure 9;
  • Figure 1 1 illustrates schematically a perspective view of a gun gaming apparatus
  • Figure 12 is a side elevation partly in cross section of a gun gaming toy showing an example of a mechanism providing an operational link between the activator or activation means and the interactor or interaction means
  • Figure 12 is a side elevation partly in cross section of a gun gaming toy showing an example of a mechanism providing an operational link between the activator or activation means and the interactor or interaction means
  • Figure 13 illustrates schematically a front view of a steering wheel gaming apparatus in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 1 to 9 are examples of apparatus in which the interactor is configured to be in contact with the surface of a touch screen in use. In other words it is not intended to be moved with respect to the touch screen.
  • FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of apparatus as described above comprising an interactor 10 and an associated activator generally indicated by reference numeral 1 1.
  • the interactor 10 in this example comprises a pad of electrically conductive foam material and is arranged to contact the touch screen of a touch screen device 30 in a manner to be described in more detail below. Any conductive material may be used but it will be appreciated that foam is preferred for the protection of the touch screen.
  • a cable 12 connects the conductive member 10 to the activator 1 1.
  • the activator 1 1 is in the form of a switch and comprises a housing 13 in which a movable member is mounted. In this example the movable member is shaped as a dome 14. The dome is retained in the housing by cooperating ledges 15 and 16 formed in the housing 13 and the dome 14 respectively.
  • the housing comprises a fixed contact 17 and the movable member, i.e. the dome 14, carries a contact 18 at the end of a shaft 19 extending into the housing, preferably from the centre of the dome.
  • the dome is biased towards the position shown in figure 1 , in which the respective ledges 15 and 16 are in contact, by means of spring 20. In this position the contacts 17 and 18 are spaced from each other.
  • the two contacts 17 and 18 come into contact as shown in figure 2.
  • At least part of the surface of the dome is covered with a metallic or other conductive layer which is connected to the contact 18 by a conductive connection 21 passing through the shaft 19.
  • the conductive interactor 10 may be grounded via the cable 12, the contacts 17 and 18, connection 21 , the conductive layer on the dome and the touching conductor such as the human body.
  • the interactor 10 With the interactor 10 being in contact with the surface of a touch screen this causes a change in state at the touch screen at the point or area of contact by the interactor 10 which can be detected by circuitry in the touch screen device 30.
  • the activator of figures 1 and 2 could take any shape and is not limited to a dome.
  • the apparatus as shown in figure 1 is designed to support the touch screen in a semi-upright position.
  • the apparatus of figures 1 and 2 comprises a stand 32 for the touch screen device 30 providing an inclined surface 33 for supporting the rear of the device.
  • the apparatus is additionally configured to retain the conductive member in contact with the touch screen.
  • the conductive member 10 is supported on a clip 35 that is pivotably mounted on the stand 32 at axis 36 and biased by spring 37 to urge the interactor 10 into contact with the touch screen.
  • the stand has a removable insert 38 rendering it suitable for use with touch screen devices of different sizes.
  • Figure 1 shows the stand 32 with the insert 38 in place supporting a touch screen device 30 of the size of a hand held device such as a mobile phone.
  • Figure 2 shows the stand with the insert 38 removed and supporting a larger touch screen device such as a tablet computing device.
  • the apparatus shown in figures 1 and 3 can comprise multiple activators 1 1.
  • An example is shown in figure 3.
  • Like parts in figures 1 , 2 and 3 are indicated with like reference numerals.
  • the apparatus shown in figure 3 has four (although any number is possible) cables 12 for respective activators 1 1 , only one of which is shown.
  • the touch screen device 30 is supported in a stand 32.
  • One or more clips 35 biased towards the device by spring 37 retain the touch screen device in place and ensure that interactors (not visible) are in contact with the screen of the device.
  • a respective interactor 35 on the clip of figure 3 could be provided for each activator 1 1.
  • the apparatus of figure 3 is suitable for use by multiple users - for example they might have one activator each or one user might use the apparatus with one activator for each hand. It will be appreciated that all that is required is for the activator to be operable to cause a change in state at the interactor. Therefore it could simply comprise a conductive surface that is connected to the interactor 10.
  • the spring bias mechanism could be omitted. However the biasing mechanism is likely to be preferred to avoid accidental actuation and to provide tactile feedback to the user. Other ways of avoiding accidental actuation and providing tactile feedback are possible.
  • the apparatus described above uses a wired connection (i.e. cable or cables 12) to interconnect the activators and the interactors.
  • a wireless version of the apparatus of figures 1 to 3 is possible.
  • the activator may have a transmitter and the interactor may have a receiver associated with it. The activator will send a signal in response to being actuated and this will be received at the transmitter at the interactor and acted on to cause a change in state at the interactor.
  • the apparatus Whilst it may be possible to take power for the receiver from the touch screen device it would be preferable for the apparatus to be self powered in which case the transmitter and receiver would each have a power supply such as one or more batteries or be solar powered. Alternatively the transmitter and/or receiver could be mains powered.
  • even for a capacitive touch screen it is not necessary for the activator itself to have a conductive surface and any kind of switch, for example, could be used as the activator.
  • An advantage of the apparatus shown in figures 1 to 3 is that it permits operation of the touch screen device without having to touch the device itself. This might be particularly convenient for the protection of the device in certain environments.
  • the touch screen device may run a gaming application that reacts to touch on the screen at the location(s) where the interactor(s) is/are located.
  • the device then has added functionality in not requiring to be hand held whist a game is in progress and thus the apparatus improves the versatility of the device.
  • the gaming application could be for a quiz game and the activators could be buzzers for contestants.
  • the activators could include sound generators.
  • the apparatus of figures 1 to 3 may be further modified by incorporating multiple activators in the same housing. One example is shown in figure 4.
  • Figure 4 shows another form of apparatus comprising an activator device 40 including a joystick 41 as an activator.
  • the device 40 includes additional activators 42 and 43 in the form of push buttons.
  • This is an example of apparatus in which the activator housing is separate from the touch screen device.
  • the touch screen device 30 is supported in a stand 32 such that one or more interactors are in contact with the surface of the touch screen.
  • a cable 12 connects the one or more interactors to the activator device 40.
  • the activator device may communicate wirelessly with equipment associated with the interactor or interactors.
  • the apparatus shown in figure 4 can be used in conjunction with a gaming application running on the touch screen device 30.
  • the application can be configured in various ways to respond to changes in state at the interactor or interactors on the touch screen.
  • movements of the joystick can be used to control the position of a cursor or a character in a game.
  • the movements of the joystick will be detected and communicated in the usual way and with the appropriate signalling and interactors these can be translated to movements of characters or other items on the screen as with current use of joysticks in gaming.
  • Separate interactors may be provided for the respective push buttons 42 and 43 to achieve different actions in the application running on the device such as firing of a gun or causing an explosion in a scene being shown on the screen. It will be appreciated that the apparatus of figure 4 is suitable for use with touch screen devices of all sizes.
  • the activators of figure 4 may have conductive surfaces as with the embodiment shown in figures 1 to 3.
  • the apparatus may include sensors or transducers for determining the manner of operation of the activators, particularly the joystick.
  • the sensor signals can be used to control one or more interactors so that the gaming application responds according to the manner of operation of the activator or activators.
  • Figure 5 shows apparatus in which one or more interactors and one or more activators are formed in a single piece of apparatus.
  • the apparatus is designed to at least frame the touch screen device.
  • the apparatus is designed to form with the touch screen device a pin ball machine gaming apparatus.
  • the apparatus generally indicated by numeral 50 frames a touch screen device 30. Parts of the apparatus overlap the touch screen.
  • the apparatus 50 provides a generally rectangular frame with protruding areas 51 to 54 overlapping the touch screen and cut out areas for the device cursor controller 58 and microphone 59. The overlapping areas are positioned at the corners of the frame.
  • One or more interactors may be provided on the underside of the frame to contact the touch screen in use.
  • the apparatus could provide an overlapping strip along one or more of the edges of the touch screen.
  • One or more interactors could be provided in the area of overlap.
  • the frame may be configured such that the whole of the screen is uncovered except for selected areas.
  • the apparatus is provided with multiple activators, two of which are indicated by numerals 55 and 56. Conductive paths or tracks in the apparatus connect the activators 55 and 56 to interactors. As with the previous examples of apparatus, the intention is that an application running on the device would react to actuation of the activators, for example by changing information visible on the screen. This particular apparatus would be suitable for use with a pinball gaming application running on the device.
  • the activators 55 and 56 may be operable simply by pressing. However the simulation of a pinball game is more realistic if the activators are operable by pulling. The simulation of a pinball game will be improved if the reaction on the screen depends on how the activators are operated. Thus a suitable mechanism may be provided to determine how hard an activator is pressed or pulled and with suitable use of the interactors this can be translated to reactions in the displayed scene according to the determination.
  • the apparatus 50 includes one or more feet, one of which is indicated at 57, to raise one edge of the screen in use so that the screen is inclined with respect to a surface on which the apparatus is placed.
  • the apparatus 50 can be generally rigid. It may be open at the back to enable the touch screen device to be inserted. Alternatively the apparatus 50 can be made principally from a flexible, e.g. elastomeric material that can simply be stretched over the touch screen device. Again the back may be open to improve the ability of the apparatus to be stretched over the device. Some parts, e.g. the activators, may need to be made relatively rigid compared to the remainder.
  • the activation of an activator may be translated into an interaction at the screen in any of the ways described in connection with the previous embodiments.
  • the surfaces of the activators may be conductive.
  • FIG. 6 shows another form of apparatus in the form of a fishing toy.
  • the apparatus 60 comprises a frame or other housing 61 for the touch screen device 30.
  • the frame or housing 61 can provide areas overlapping with the touch screen in the same manner as the apparatus shown in figure 5. The overlapping areas are provided with one or more interactors that contact the screen in use.
  • a generally rectangular area of the screen is uncovered as well as a cursor controller 62 and microphone 63.
  • the frame or housing 61 is attached to a toy fishing rod generally indicated as 64.
  • the toy includes rod 65, and activators in the form of a reel 66 and reel release button 67. There is no line on the reel 66.
  • the action of fishing is simulated in use by an application running on the device.
  • the activators in the form of reel 66 and release button 67 communicate with interactors by means of conductive tracks provided in the apparatus.
  • the housing 61 and the fishing rod 64 may be removably connected to each other.
  • the rotation of the reel 66 and the amount of rotation may be detected by suitable means as may be the operation of the reel release button.
  • suitable interactors contacting different areas on the touch screen the full functionality of a fishing toy can be achieved.
  • the activation of an activator may be translated into an interaction at the screen in any of the ways described in connection with the previous embodiments.
  • the surfaces of the activators may be conductive.
  • Figure 7 illustrates another form of apparatus in the form of a "follow the instructions" toy.
  • a toy is sold under the trade mark "bop-it”.
  • a toy of this kind works by instructing the operator to perform various actions and detecting that they have been done. The successful operator receives instructions at shorter and shorter intervals.
  • the apparatus of figure 7 includes a frame or housing for a touch screen device 30. This is similar to the frame or housing 61 of the fishing toy of figure 6 and will not be described in further detail.
  • the frame or housing sits at the centre of a hand held device comprising curved arms 72, 73 designed to be held one in each hand and positioned one on each side of a central arm, not visible, on which the frame or housing sits.
  • the ends of the arms are provided with activators 73, 74, 75 at their ends and an additional activator 76 is provided on a protrusion extending towards the user in use.
  • Each of the activators 73 to 76 is designed to be actuated in a different way.
  • activator 73 comprises a knurled disc rotatably mounted on an axis at the end of arm 72.
  • Activator 74 is simply designed to be pressed.
  • Activator 75 is designed to be squeezed.
  • Activator 76 is designed to be turned.
  • activators 73 and 76 both require rotation but about different axes so that a different manual action is required. Any permutation of different activators requiring different actions is possible.
  • the operation of the activators is detected by suitable means as with existing "follow the instructions" toys. Signals from the activators are conducted to conductive members overlapping the touch screen so as to cause an application running on the touch screen device to respond appropriately.
  • Figure 8 shows apparatus configured to enable a touch screen device to be operated in the manner of a conventional and well known hand held gaming device.
  • the apparatus comprises a frame or housing 81 for the touch screen device and an extending panel 82 providing games controls.
  • the housing 81 overlaps the touch screen along its two longest edges with the control panel extending from one of those edges in use so that the touch screen is held in landscape mode.
  • the housing can be regarded as providing a channel into which the touch screen device is slotted.
  • the housing could alternatively be formed in the manner of the housings or frames described in connection with figures 5 and 6.
  • the housing comprises one or more interactors on its inner surfaces where it contacts the touch screen in use.
  • the combination of the extending panel with an area overlapping the touch screen could be configured to fold over the touch screen as a protective cover when not in use.
  • the control panel has the same games controls as well known hand held gaming devices which serve as activators to cause changes in state at the interactors.
  • the conventional up/down/right/left arrows generally at 83 and various additional activators at 84 whose function will depend on the nature of the gaming application running on the device.
  • the apparatus of figure 8 including the touch screen device could have the full functionality of a known gaming apparatus. It is known to provide mobile communications devices that are also operable as gaming devices and some have separate games controls. However these are often mechanically complex and heavier than the communications device without this functionality.
  • the device illustrated in figure 8 provides a touch screen communications device with the full functionality of a gaming device in a removable form.
  • the gaming apparatus can be removed when not required leaving the original touch screen device a simple and lightweight as its original design.
  • the activation of an activator may be translated into an interaction at the screen in any of the ways described in connection with the previous embodiments.
  • the surfaces of the activators may be conductive.
  • FIG 9 A further embodiment is illustrated in figure 9 in the form of a toy gun generally indicated by reference numeral 90.
  • the apparatus comprises a housing 98 for a touch screen device which may include a protective screen 99 for the device.
  • the apparatus comprises chassis, in this case the gun barrel 97, with a housing or other support on one part of the chassis, e.g. at the gun sighting, and one or more activators on another part of the chassis remote from the housing or support.
  • a real gun configuration usually comprises a handle for a user to grip, a trigger such that the user can operate the gun, a barrel through which a missile is fired following operation of the trigger, and hammer or interaction means which is connected to the trigger such that once the trigger is operated by the user, the pulling of the trigger causes the interaction means to interact with a missile, with resultant force of the interaction means firing the missile down the barrel and out of the gun.
  • Toy guns gaming usually comprise all of these components.
  • the toy gun apparatus of figure 9 also comprises activators in the form of triggers 91 and 92.
  • the apparatus could comprise only one trigger.
  • the apparatus comprises a chassis in the form of the gun barrel 97 and a handle 93.
  • An interactor 94 is maintained in contact with the touch screen in use. As with the apparatus described previously there may be multiple interactors and many combinations of interactors and activators are possible.
  • the toy of figure 9 is configured such that when one of the triggers is operated a change of state results at the area where the interactor is in contact with the touch screen.
  • the interactor and the activator may be provided with respective conductive surfaces and may be arranged such that a conductive path between the respective conductive surfaces is completed when the activator is actuated. This may be achieved in a manner similar to figure 2 in which the actuation of the trigger closes a switch.
  • toy gun gaming apparatus 90 is shaped such that the activators 91 and/or 92 each comprise a trigger such as to replicate the trigger of a gun.
  • the tactile feed back of pulling back the trigger creates a mechanical stimulation such that the users sense of touch by applying force to the trigger 102 and/or 103 causes a reality sensation to the user that the user is pulling the trigger of a gun which then corresponds to, for example, a gun being fired in the game of a gaming software itself.
  • the gun illustrated in figure 9 is described as having interactor or interaction means in contact with the touch screen. However in another possible embodiment, the interactor may be spaced from the touch screen in its normal position and brought into contact with the touch screen under the operation of the activator. This will be described in more detail with reference to figures 10, 1 1 and 12.
  • gun gaming apparatus 200 comprises housing window 201 , housing lock 202 and housing casing 203.
  • gun gaming apparatus 300 comprises, interaction means 301 , user operation 302 and mechanism housing or casing 303.
  • Figures 9 to 12 shows gaming apparatus where the apparatus is in the form of a gun gaming apparatus.
  • the gun configuration of the gaming apparatus would be particularly suitable to operate with touch screen media players and touch screen telecommunications phones with gaming software or applications which relate to shooting.
  • the form and shape of the gaming apparatus is not limited to guns, rather may take various other shapes which may relate to the type of software / application being run on the touch screen media player / touch screen mobile phone.
  • the gaming apparatus as described with reference to figures 10 to 12, is suitable for touch screen media players such as touch screen telecommunications phones which have the capability of running gaming software, and such that the game of the gaming software can be substantially played, operated or controlled by operation of the touch screen by the user.
  • Touch screen telecommunications phones are a form of touch screen media players and will therefore be referred to herein simply as touch screen media player.
  • touch screen media player is a form of touch screen media players and will therefore be referred to herein simply as touch screen media player.
  • touch screen media player are a form of touch screen media players and will therefore be referred to herein simply as touch screen media player.
  • touch screen media player are a form of touch screen media players and will therefore be referred to herein simply as touch screen media player.
  • such software has uses beyond mere entertainment, such as in training.
  • the gun shown in the figures could be used in training users of weapons.
  • a gun is generally known as a device used to project something under pressure, and more specifically known as a weapon with a barrel from
  • the gaming apparatus disclosed will be shaped as a gun, more specifically a toy gun. That is, the toy gun gaming apparatus will be an apparatus shaped as a gun and designed to be played with, that is a nonfunctioning replica of a gun.
  • the toy gun gaming apparatus will be suitable for children as well as adults.
  • the toy gun gaming apparatus may be shaped in any gun configuration for example but not limited to, a machine gun, a shot gun, a hand gun or the like.
  • the toy gun gaming apparatus described here is preferably configured not to fire missiles from its barrel.
  • Toy guns for gaming usually comprise components of a real gun as noted above.
  • Toy gun apparatus 300 shown in figure 1 1 also comprises a trigger 305 and/or 306, one or more hammers 301 , a handle 304 and a barrel 303.
  • the operation of the trigger 305 and/or 306 by the user causes the hammer(s) 301 to apply a force of pressure to the touch screen of a touch screen media player (not shown).
  • the toy gun gaming apparatus of figures 9 to 12 is not configured to fire missiles.
  • the toy gun gaming apparatus may be externally shaped to replicate real life guns.
  • the toy gun gaming apparatus is shaped to replicate the fantastical guns similar to those represented in games of gaming software.
  • An advantage of the gaming apparatus as illustrated in the figures is that the gaming apparatus is shaped to represent the tactile user interface corresponding with the nature of the game represented by the gaming software that the gaming apparatus operates via the touch screen media player.
  • the gaming apparatus as disclosed in the figures operate media players operated or partially operated by a touch screen and have a data storage capacity to store and run gaming software.
  • An advantage of the gaming apparatus disclosed, and more specifically the toy gun gaming apparatus 90 or 300 is that the user's gaming experience is increased by the tactile configuration of the gaming apparatus to replicate the action in the game being played.
  • the game of the gaming software being operated on the touch screen media player is that of a Mafia theme whereby the avitar or character in the gaming software that the user is operating has a machine gun which fires bullets
  • the gaming apparatus is shaped to be configured as a toy machine gun gaming apparatus, and the toy gun gaming apparatus has a trigger means
  • operation of the trigger means by the user will replicate the action of the character in the gaming software resulting in the trigger means 305 or 306 activating the interaction means 94 or 301 and therefore operating the touch screen media player such that the character in the gaming software fires the machine gun. Therefore, the user will have substantially replicated the tactile movement of the character in the game being played by the user.
  • the shaping of the gaming apparatus to replicate a feature or theme of a gaming software is advantageous, as this will inherently stimulate the somatosensory sensory system of the user particularly with respect to the sense of touch or tactility therefore increasing and enhancing the enjoyment as well as the perception of reality to the user.
  • toy gun gaming apparatus 90 or 300 is shaped such that activation means 91 , 92, 305 or 306 comprises a trigger such as to replicate the trigger of a gun.
  • activation means 91 , 92, 305 or 306 comprises a trigger such as to replicate the trigger of a gun.
  • the tactile feed back of pulling back the trigger creates a mechanical stimulation such that the users sense of touch by applying force to the trigger 305 and/or 306 causes a reality sensation to the user that the user is pulling the trigger of a gun which then corresponds to, for example, a gun being fired in the game of a gaming software itself.
  • the enhancement of users' enjoyment or perception of reality may be increased further in a preferred embodiment whereby the toy gun gaming apparatus further comprises an electrical vibration source whereby the toy gun gaming apparatus vibrates upon operation of the activation means 305 and/or 306 by a user.
  • the toy gun gaming apparatus will enhance the haptic feedback gained from the game being played as a result of the sensory
  • toy gun gaming apparatus 300 manipulates the users sense of touch by toy gun gaming apparatus 300. For example, if toy gun gaming apparatus 300 is used to operate a touch screen media player whilst the touch screen media player is running a "shoot 'em up" gaming software, the character being controlled the by the user in the gaming software will be carrying a gun such as to shoot other characters or objects in the gaming software.
  • the interaction means 301 Upon manipulation of the activation means 305 and/or 306, the interaction means 301 will operate the touch screen media player such that the interaction means 301 makes contact with the touch screen of a touch screen media player, therefore causing a signal to the touch screen media player such that the character in the gaming software fires their gun.
  • the toy gun gaming apparatus 300 may also comprise a vibration means. The vibration means may operate such that the toy gun gaming apparatus 300 will vibrate when the character in the gaming software fires their gun.
  • Interaction means 301 of toy gun gaming apparatus 300 is preferably shaped and configured to replicate the firing mechanism of a real gun.
  • the replica 306 and/or 305 firing mechanism could be that of a hammer, a firing pin, a fuse or any other gun firing mechanism.
  • the toy gun gaming apparatus 300 may comprise one or a number of activation means 306.
  • the gun gaming apparatus 300 or 90 is preferably made of plastic, or of the general material that children's toy replica guns are made out of due to the low manufacturing cost and durability. However some or all of the components of the gaming apparatus may be made of other materials such as rubber or metal.
  • the gaming apparatus is hand held.
  • the user of gun gaming apparatus 90 or 300 is able to grip and maintain hold of the gun gaming apparatus via handle 304.
  • the user is required to apply pressure to either activation means 305 or 306.
  • the gaming apparatus may have one or a number of activation means.
  • the activation means may provide the same or a different operable effect on the gaming apparatus.
  • gun gaming apparatus 300 has activation means 305 and / or 306 in the form of a trigger in order to replicate the action of a gun.
  • the activation means 305 and / or 306 may be any other form of button, pullcord or the like.
  • the handle 304 it is preferential for the handle 304 to be located within the vicinity of the activation means 305 or 306 such that the user can grip and operate the gun gaming apparatus 300 simultaneously.
  • housing 308 is located at the sight of a gun, i.e. within the eyeline of the user, above the barrel of a gun. This is so that when the touch screen media player is stored in the housing, the user can view the display screen whilst the gun gaming apparatus 300 is being held.
  • housing 308 is in the form of a casing such that a touch screen media player / telecommunications phone can be encased within housing 308.
  • Touch screen media player / telecommunications phones are generally of an expensive nature, therefore it is preferred that the housing can partially or wholly protect the touch screen media player / telecommunications phone being housed.
  • housing 308 can be removed from gun gaming apparatus 300 such that the housing is interchangeable in order to accommodate for touch screen media players / telecommunications phones of different shapes and sizes.
  • housing 308 comprises a protective screen 309 which fits above the display of the touch screen such that the touch screen is protected from scratches or damage, whilst still being able to respond to interaction of the touch screen with interaction means 301.
  • the housing 308 may be a two part compartment of which the touch screen media player / phone could fit in to and then the two parts could clip together.
  • housing 308 may be in the form of a vice, clamp, or clip for securing a touch screen media player to gun gaming apparatus 300.
  • the housing 308 may be connected to gun gaming apparatus 300 by means of a fixed connection or alternatively on a pivotable, ball and socket, or any other connection means adapted such that the housing 308 can be moved or swivelled in different positions to changed the angle of the housing 308 with respect to the main body of gun gaming apparatus 308.
  • the or each interaction means 301 is in the form of a hammer.
  • Interaction means 301 may have a flat or pointed edge which is able to be intermittently touched against the touch screen display during operation.
  • the surface of the interaction means which touches the touch screen in use is covered with a buffer material such as foam so as to protect the surface of the touch screen.
  • the protective screen 309 is not essential.
  • the interaction means will be appropriate to the technology employed by the particular touch screen for which the apparatus is designed.
  • the surface which contacts the touch screen is conductive. This can be achieved through the use of conductive foam.
  • the interaction means 301 is caused to move from a non-touching state to a state of touching the touch screen or a state of manipulation of the touch screen to cause a signal to be sent to the touch screen media player / telecommunications phone.
  • the interaction means 301 or a respective interaction means is caused to move from a touching state to a non touching state.
  • the activation means is released by the user, the interaction means will then return back to its normal position.
  • the housing for a touch screen media player of gun gaming apparatus 200 comprises a housing casing 203, housing lock 202 and housing window 201.
  • the housing window is preferably positioned such that the housing casing 203 does not obscure the lens of a touch screen media player that has an in built camera or video camera facility. This allows for the gun gaming apparatus 200 to be operable during playing of augmented reality games.
  • housing lock 202 allows for a touch screen media player to be easily secured in and removed from the housing casing 203.
  • the housing casing would be composed of an anti-shock material so as to further protect the housed touch screen media player in case the user dropped the gun gaming apparatus 200.
  • gun gaming apparatus 300 Referring to gun gaming apparatus 300 as shown in figure 11 , there is shown the gun gaming apparatus 300 in operation in a hand held configuration where by the user 302 is able to grip a handle of gun gaming apparatus 300 and activate the activation means simultaneously, preferably with one hand.
  • the mechanism for gun gaming apparatus 300 is located in mechanism housing 303.
  • the gaming apparatus mechanism (not shown in figure 3) of gun gaming apparatus 300 provides the operational link between the interaction means and activation means.
  • the mechanism may be used to translate the actuation of an actuator into movement of the interactor to contact the touch screen.
  • the gaming apparatus mechanism when the activation means 305 or 306 is operated by the user i.e. the trigger is pulled, the gaming apparatus mechanism is activated which in turn causes the interaction means 301 to interact with the secured touch screen media player / telecommunications phone.
  • Figure 3 shows two interaction means 301.
  • the mechanism of gun gaming apparatus 300 will be a non - electrical, mechanical apparatus.
  • the gun mechanism will comprise a spring loaded mechanism, an example of which will be described below.
  • the mechanism may also be that of a gear system or a cable system.
  • the mechanism may be any mechanical means which allows manipulation of the interaction means by actuation of the activation means.
  • the interaction means 301 may be coupled to the activation means 305 or 306 either directly or indirectly.
  • the mechanism for operation of gun gaming apparatus 300 maybe an electrical mechanism. This maybe in the form a circuit, whereby closure of the circuit by the user operating activation means 305 generates an electrical signal which causes the interaction means to cooperate with the touch screen of a media player / telecommunications phone.
  • the gaming apparatus may be battery or solar powered in order to provide a power source.
  • Figure 12 is a cut away side elevation partly in cross section of a gun gaming toy showing an example of a mechanism providing an operational link between the activator or activation means and the interactor or interaction means.
  • the apparatus 100 of figure12 comprises handle 101 , activator or activation means 102, housing 104 for touch screen media player and interactor or interaction means 106.
  • the activator 102, interactor 106 and media player housing 104 extend from apparatus casing 401 , shown in cross section.
  • the activator 102 is pivotably mounted in the casing 401 on a fixed pivot axis 402 so that the pivot axis is perpendicular to the direction of travel of the activator 102, i.e. the pivot axis extends transversely across the casing.
  • the interactor 106 is also pivotably mounted in the casing 401 on a fixed pivot axis 403 so that the pivot axis is perpendicular to the direction of travel of the activator 102, i.e. the pivot axis extends transversely across the casing 401.
  • the interactor 106 and activator 102 may be mounted on respective spindles that extend internally from the casing 401.
  • the spindles may be fixed to opposite walls of the casing or they may be attached to one wall only.
  • a push rod 404 is pivotably mounted to both the interactor 106 and activator 102.
  • One end of push rod 404 is attached to the activator 102 so as to be pivotable about axis 405 and the other end of push rod 404 is attached to the interactor 106 so as to be pivotable about axis 406.
  • Both axes 405 and 406 extend transversely across the casing 401.
  • the push rod 404 is not fixed with respect to the casing. Thus when the activator is activated to rotate it in the anti-clockwise direction as shown, this is translated via the linkage comprising the push rod 404 to cause the interactor to be rotated in the clockwise direction to cause contact between the interactor and the screen of the media player 450 or a screen protecting the media player 450.
  • the trigger returns to its normal position as shown in figure 12 under the operation of a return spring 408 which has one end 408a fixed to the casing (or fixed with respect to the casing) and one end 408b fixed to the activator 102. In this normal or rest position there is a space between the interactor and the media player 450.
  • This particular mechanism is designed for use with a screen using capacitive sensing of touch. It will be suitable for a touch screen that uses sensing technology that detects a change in an electrical parameter at a point or area on the screen.
  • the activator 102 has a metal or other conductive pad 410 at the surface that will be contacted by the finger of the user in use;
  • the interactor has a conductive pad 41 1 at the surface that will contact the touch screen in use and the pads 410 and 41 1 are electrically connected by wire 413.
  • the wire 413 may be carried in a plastic or other insulating tube. It may pass through the activator 102 and the interactor 106.
  • the casing 401 may be mounted inside the casing 401 on the outside of the activator 102 and the interactor 106 respectively.
  • the interactor When the interactor is in contact with the screen or its protective cover, the wire carries electrical charge between the touch screen media player 450 and the activator 102.
  • the pad 410 may be a pad of electrically conductive foam so as to minimise impact damage to the screen of media player 450.
  • the pad 410 may also be formed from conductive foam although it is more likely that this pad would not have a resilient surface so that the apparatus would feel more realistic.
  • the trigger carries the conductive pad 410, the connecting wire 413 and the return spring 408.
  • the pad carried by the interactor When pulled it causes the pad carried by the interactor to contact the touch screen of media player 450 making a connection between the user and the screen.
  • the spring 408 pulls the activator back and therefore the interactor 106 to its rest position thereby breaking the connection since at this point pad 411 no longer contacts the screen of player 450.
  • Figure 13 shows an alternative gaming apparatus in the form of a steering wheel.
  • the steering wheel apparatus 500 of figure 13 comprises handle 501 , activator or activation means 502, additional activator or activation means 503, protective screen 504, housing or casing 505 and interaction means 506.
  • the steering wheel gaming apparatus 500 may comprise one or a combination of activators or activation means, including a button activation means 502 and / or a trigger activation means 503.
  • the user may grip the steering wheel gaming apparatus 500 around steering wheel handle 501 such that the users hand is in the operable vicinity of either activation means 502 or 503.
  • the activation means 502 and 503 can be located anywhere on the handle 501.
  • the interaction means 506 is located at a position such that its free end is able to interact with touch screen of a media player / telecommunications phone, the media player / telecommunications phone being housed in the housing 505 and having a transparent protective screen 504.
  • the housing 505 will have a screenless window such that the display of a touch screen media player / telecommunications phone is visible to the user when encased in the housing 505.
  • a suitable linkage is provided to translate the operation of the button or trigger into contact between the interaction means 506 and the screen of the touch screen device 504. This could be a mechanical linkage equivalent to the one shown in figure 12.
  • the interaction means or interactor 506 could be maintained in contact with the touch screen throughout use of the apparatus 500 and the activations means or activator could cause a change in state without mechanical movement of the interactor in a similar way to any of the embodiments of figures 1 to 9.
  • the embodiments as disclosed in figures 10 to 13 disclose an interactive means whereby the interactive means is in the form of a hammer that is able to tap the screen of a touch screen media player
  • the interaction means may take any form which is able to provide an operative signal to the touch screen of media player.
  • the interaction means may comprise a vibration means, and infra-red signal or the like.
  • the gaming apparatus itself may have a vibratory effect when the activation means is operated by the user.
  • the housing 104 referred to in figures 9 to 13 maybe be adjustable in it positioning along the top of barrel of gun gaming apparatus 100. Alternatively the housing 104 may be positioned at the side of gun gaming apparatus 100.
  • the gaming apparatus may have a plurality of interactors or interaction means which may act to interact with the display screen of a touch screen media player either independently or simultaneously to cause multiple signals to be received by the touch screen.
  • the activation means may be operable to cause a dragging effect or tapping effect of the hammer on the display of the touch screen media player.
  • the principal of operating activation means which then causes a reaction at a touch screen is not limited to the field of gaming apparatus and is also applicable to other situations in which it would be useful to operate a touch screen device without actually having to touch it.
  • One possibility is in underwater photography.
  • Specific fields for application other than gaming include medical situations such as hospitals, where it might be useful to protect a media player by ensuring that it is not contacted by a human hand.
  • the foregoing are just a selection of forms of apparatus for use with touch screen devices. Although these are all primarily for recreational use, several of them have other applications.
  • the wirelessly operated versions can be used to permit remote control of all kinds of operations in which the operator can be provided with feedback via a touch screen communications device.
  • a gaming apparatus for operation of a game, played on a gaming software of a touch screen media player comprising: a housing; an activation means; an interaction means; said housing being configured to maintain a touch screen media player in an operable position; said activation means is connectable with said interaction means; said interaction means is configured to be operated by said activation means; wherein upon application of a pressure to said activation means, said activation means operates said interaction means to cause a contact of said interaction means with a touch screen of a said touch screen media player to control operation of said game; said gaming apparatus shaped such that a said pressure can be applied to said activation means simultaneously to the gaming apparatus being gripped by a user; and said shape of said gaming apparatus represents a tactile user interface
  • the gaming apparatus may be hand held.
  • the activation means may comprise a trigger means.
  • the activation means may comprise a button means.
  • the interaction means may comprise a hammer means.
  • said application of pressure to said activation means creates a non-electrical communication signal to cause contact of said interaction means with a screen of a said touch screen media to induce an operative effect on said touch screen media player.
  • said application of pressure to said activation means creates an electrical communication signal to said interaction means to cause contact of said interaction means with a screen of a said touch screen media player to induce an operative effect on said touch screen media player.
  • said housing comprises a casing configured to maintain a touch screen media player.
  • said housing comprises a gripping means for holding and maintaining a said touch screen media player in a fixed position.
  • said housing configurable to maintain a said touch screen media player in one or a number of positions relative to said gaming apparatus.
  • said interaction means configured to operate a resistive touch screen of a said media player.
  • said interaction means configured to generate a surface acoustic wave to operate a touch screen of a said media.
  • said interaction means configured to operate a capacitive touch screen of a said media player.
  • said interaction means configured to operate an infra-red touch screen of a said media player.
  • said gaming apparatus substantially composed of plastic.
  • said gaming apparatus is shaped to be configured as a toy gun.
  • said gaming apparatus comprised of a toy gun shape; wherein a sight of said toy gun configuration comprises said housing; said activation means comprises a trigger means, said interaction means comprises a hammer means and; upon application of a pressure to said trigger means, said trigger means operates said hammer means to cause a contact of said hammer means with a screen of a said touch screen media player to induce an operative effect on said touch screen media player.
  • said gaming apparatus comprised of a steering wheel configuration; wherein a said activation means comprises a button, said interaction means comprises a hammer means and; upon application of a pressure to said button means, said button means operates said hammer means to cause a contact of said hammer means with a screen of a said touch screen media player to induce an operative effect on said touch screen media player.
  • the embodiments of the invention provided in figures 10 to 13 also provide a toy gun gaming apparatus for operation of a gaming software of a touch screen media player, said toy gun gaming apparatus comprising: a housing; a trigger; an interaction means; said housing configured to maintain a said touch screen media player in an operable position; said trigger is connectable with said interaction means; said interaction means is configured to be operated by said activation means; wherein upon application of a pressure to said trigger, said trigger operates said interaction means to cause a contact of said interaction means with a touch screen of a said touch screen media player to induce an operative effect on said touch screen media player said toy gun gaming apparatus shape configured such that a said pressure can be applied to said trigger simultaneously to the gaming apparatus being gripped by a user; and said toy gun gaming apparatus is further shaped to represent the tactile user interface corresponding with the nature of the game represented by a said gaming software.
  • the toy gun gaming apparatus may be hand held.
  • the activation means may comprise a trigger means.
  • the activation means may comprise a button means.
  • the said interaction means may comprise a hammer means.
  • the interaction means may be comprises a pin means.
  • the interaction means comprises a fuse means.
  • said application of pressure to said trigger creates a non - electrical communication signal to cause contact of said interaction means with a screen of a said touch screen media player to induce an operative effect on said touch screen media player.
  • said application of pressure to said trigger creates an electrical communication signal to said interaction means to cause contact of said interaction means with a screen of a said touch screen media to induce an operative effect on said touch screen media player.
  • said housing comprises a casing configured to maintain a touch screen media player.
  • said housing comprises a gripping means for holding and maintaining a said touch screen media in a fixed position.
  • said housing configurable to maintain a said touch screen media player in one or a number of positions relative to said gaming apparatus.
  • said interaction means configured to operate a resistive touch screen of a said media player.
  • said interaction means configured to generate a surface acoustic wave to operate a touch screen of a said media.
  • said interaction means configured to operate a capacitive touch screen of a said media player.
  • said interaction means configured to operate an infra-red touch screen of a said media player.
  • said toy gun gaming apparatus substantially composed of plastic.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
  • Position Input By Displaying (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention porte sur un appareil de jeu destiné à être utilisé avec un dispositif à écran tactile exécutant une application de jeu, l'appareil ayant la forme d'un objet associé au jeu et l'appareil comprenant au moins un activateur apte à provoquer un changement d'état à un emplacement sur la surface de l'écran tactile, qui peut être détecté par des circuits dans le dispositif à écran tactile afin de provoquer une interaction entre le fonctionnement de l'activateur et le fonctionnement du jeu.
PCT/GB2011/051438 2010-10-18 2011-07-28 Accessoires tactiles pour un dispositif à écran tactile WO2012052732A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GBGB1017596.6A GB201017596D0 (en) 2010-10-18 2010-10-18 A gaming apparatus
GB1017596.6 2010-10-18
GB1104331.2 2011-03-15
GB1104331.2A GB2484759B (en) 2010-10-18 2011-03-15 A gaming apparatus
GB1112252.0 2011-07-15
GBGB1112252.0A GB201112252D0 (en) 2011-07-15 2011-07-15 Touch accessories for touch screen device

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2012052732A1 true WO2012052732A1 (fr) 2012-04-26

Family

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Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/GB2011/051438 WO2012052732A1 (fr) 2010-10-18 2011-07-28 Accessoires tactiles pour un dispositif à écran tactile

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2012052732A1 (fr)

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CN103428173A (zh) * 2012-05-17 2013-12-04 云联（北京）信息技术有限公司 基于云计算的体感操控系统及其应用
NL2009560C2 (en) * 2012-10-02 2014-04-07 Adar Golad Manual dexterity toy assembly for use with touch-screen device.
GB2512266A (en) * 2012-10-02 2014-10-01 David Bernard Mapleston Means of providing a three dimentional touch screen interface device using conventional or printed materials
US9022673B2 (en) 2013-09-05 2015-05-05 KNEKT Industries Ltd. Device support and trigger apparatus
WO2019241336A1 (fr) 2018-06-15 2019-12-19 Ivan Arbouzov Système de visualisation de jeu avancé
US10537820B2 (en) 2014-10-21 2020-01-21 Lego A/S Toy construction system and a method for a spatial structure to be detected by an electronic device comprising a touch screen
CN112121409A (zh) * 2020-09-14 2020-12-25 努比亚技术有限公司 一种游戏交互方法、柔性屏终端及计算机可读存储介质
CN112827184A (zh) * 2021-02-20 2021-05-25 歌尔科技有限公司 一种自适应调节力反馈的扳机及人机交互设备

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US20090181737A1 (en) * 2003-12-11 2009-07-16 Eric Argentar Video Game Controller
US20100081505A1 (en) * 2008-09-30 2010-04-01 Apple Inc. Accessory for playing games with a portable electronic device
JP2010108464A (ja) * 2008-10-29 2010-05-13 K Soft Enterprise Co Ltd 携帯機器

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US20090181737A1 (en) * 2003-12-11 2009-07-16 Eric Argentar Video Game Controller
US20060256090A1 (en) * 2005-05-12 2006-11-16 Apple Computer, Inc. Mechanical overlay
US20100081505A1 (en) * 2008-09-30 2010-04-01 Apple Inc. Accessory for playing games with a portable electronic device
JP2010108464A (ja) * 2008-10-29 2010-05-13 K Soft Enterprise Co Ltd 携帯機器

Cited By (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN103428173A (zh) * 2012-05-17 2013-12-04 云联（北京）信息技术有限公司 基于云计算的体感操控系统及其应用
NL2009560C2 (en) * 2012-10-02 2014-04-07 Adar Golad Manual dexterity toy assembly for use with touch-screen device.
GB2512266A (en) * 2012-10-02 2014-10-01 David Bernard Mapleston Means of providing a three dimentional touch screen interface device using conventional or printed materials
GB2512266B (en) * 2012-10-02 2016-04-13 Interactive Product Solutions Ltd Means of providing a three dimentional touch screen interface device using conventional or printed materials
US9022673B2 (en) 2013-09-05 2015-05-05 KNEKT Industries Ltd. Device support and trigger apparatus
US10537820B2 (en) 2014-10-21 2020-01-21 Lego A/S Toy construction system and a method for a spatial structure to be detected by an electronic device comprising a touch screen
WO2019241336A1 (fr) 2018-06-15 2019-12-19 Ivan Arbouzov Système de visualisation de jeu avancé
EP3806969A4 (fr) * 2018-06-15 2022-03-09 Ivan Arbouzov Système de visualisation de jeu avancé
CN112121409A (zh) * 2020-09-14 2020-12-25 努比亚技术有限公司 一种游戏交互方法、柔性屏终端及计算机可读存储介质
CN112121409B (zh) * 2020-09-14 2023-10-20 努比亚技术有限公司 一种游戏交互方法、柔性屏终端及计算机可读存储介质
CN112827184A (zh) * 2021-02-20 2021-05-25 歌尔科技有限公司 一种自适应调节力反馈的扳机及人机交互设备

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