CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONSThis application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/551,905 filed on Oct. 26, 2011, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
This application is related to co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. ______, on Aug. 30, 2012, and entitled, “ELECTRONIC DEVICE GAMING SYSTEM” (Attorney Docket No. 10385.3), which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONConventional game systems use a specified hardware configuration in a console with controls that are attached either through a wired connection or wirelessly to the console. The console is then connected to a display (if the console does not include a display) and the user uses the controls to perform desired actions within a game. The game is sold separately and loaded into the console when game play is desired.
However, the game console is rarely adaptable. For example, the hardware is normally selected and manufactured for several years before new gaming consoles are released. That means that users are often using outdated technology, preventing the user from getting the maximum experience from the game.
In addition, the game console is not portable. I.e., in order to get the desired hardware, the consoles are made of a size and design such that the hardware is wired to the display. This means that the console is usually left in one location and other uses must plan around the console location. For example, if the console is connected to a television, then no one else can use that particular television when the console is in use.
In addition, games for these consoles tend to be expensive. I.e., because they are specialized for specific hardware and because they are subject to specific distribution channels, the cost of the games tends to be higher than other types of games. This means that users need to factor in the cost of the games in addition to the cost of the console.
Because of these limitations, users are increasingly turning to mobile devices for gaming. For example, users can download and install games on an iPhone, a tablet, an Android phone or other similar device with little hassle and for much lower prices than console games. In addition, this is hardware that users tend to own and upgrade on a regular basis anyway, so it does not factor into the cost of the gaming experience.
However, gaming on mobile devices has its own drawbacks. For example, many of these devices use a touchscreen. This means that the screen is used as the controller as well as the display. Often, the user's fingers can get in the way of information on the display, making it more difficult to view all of the information available to the user.
In addition, touchscreens do not allow for the precision control that a controller offers. I.e., controllers can allow for a specific input with a specific result. If the user is trying to use a button array on a touchscreen instead, they are more likely to make mistakes.
Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a system that allows a user to play a game on desired hardware. Additionally, there is a need in the art for the system to allow the user to have precise control. Moreover, there is a need in the art for the controls to not use display area for the control.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTSThis Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential characteristics of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.
One example embodiment includes a method for connecting an electronic device to a gamepad. The method includes providing a gamepad including one or more controls. The method also includes detecting a Bluetooth protocol. The method further includes detecting an electronic device. The method additionally includes connecting the gamepad to the electronic device wirelessly using the Bluetooth protocol.
Another example embodiment includes a method of electronic communication between a gamepad and an electronic device. The method includes identifying an input by a user, wherein the input is received from a gamepad, wherein the gamepad includes one or more controls. The method also includes converting the input to a Bluetooth function. The method further includes transmitting the Bluetooth function to the electronic device wirelessly. The method additionally includes changing the Bluetooth function into an application defined instruction.
Another example embodiment includes a method of electronic a communication between a gamepad and an electronic device. The method includes providing a gamepad including one or more controls. The method also includes identifying an input by a user, wherein the input is received from the gamepad. The method further includes converting the input into a command. The method additionally includes transforming the command into a Bluetooth function. The method moreover includes transmitting the Bluetooth function to the electronic device wirelessly. The method also includes changing the Bluetooth function into an application defined instruction.
These and other objects and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGSTo further clarify various aspects of some example embodiments of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only illustrated embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1A illustrates a top perspective view of an example of an electronic device gaming system;
FIG. 1B illustrates a bottom perspective view of the example of an electronic device gaming system;
FIG. 1C illustrates a side view of the example of an electronic device gaming system;
FIG. 2 illustrates an example of the electronic device gaming system in an open position;
FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a case;
FIG. 4 illustrates an example of a shelf;
FIG. 5 illustrates a block diagram of a gamepad;
FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a gamepad;
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for connecting an electronic device to a gamepad; and
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method of electronic communication between a gamepad and an electronic device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTSReference will now be made to the figures wherein like structures will be provided with like reference designations. It is understood that the figures are diagrammatic and schematic representations of some embodiments of the invention, and are not limiting of the present invention, nor are they necessarily drawn to scale.
FIGS. 1A,1B and1C illustrate an example of an electronicdevice gaming system100.FIG. 1A illustrates a top perspective view of the example of an electronicdevice gaming system100;FIG. 1B illustrates a bottom perspective view of the example of an electronicdevice gaming system100; andFIG. 1C illustrates a side view of the example of an electronicdevice gaming system100. In at least one implementation, the electronicdevice gaming system100 can protect an enclosed electronic device. Additionally or alternatively, the electronicdevice gaming system100 can include a controller, as described below.
FIGS. 1A,1B and1C show that the electronicdevice gaming system100 can include acase102. In at least one implementation, thecase102 can be configured to protect the electronic device. I.e., thecase102 can be configured to receive the electronic device and provide some measure of protection for the electronic device. For example, thecase102 can include a shock resistant material that is configured to absorb the shock of an impact delivered to the electronic device.
FIGS. 1A,1B and1C also show that the electronicdevice gaming system100 can include ainput device104 attached to thecase102. In at least one implementation, theinput device104 can include any device which allows a user to input a command for an electronic device. For example, theinput device104 can include a gamepad. A gamepad can include one or more controls for playing a game on the electronic device. I.e., the gamepad can include the controls required or desired to play a game that is run and/or displayed on the electronic device, as described below. Additionally or alternatively, theinput device104 can include a keyboard, a touchpad, a touch screen, a mouse, a scroll wheel, a headset (e.g., a Bluetooth headset), connections for external devices, such as controllers or joysticks, motion detectors, any other desired input or any combination thereof.
FIGS. 1A,1B and1C further show that the electronicdevice gaming system100 can include ashelf106. In at least one implementation, theshelf106 can be configured to releasably attach thecase102. I.e., theshelf106 can allow thecase102 to be removed from theinput device104. When thecase102 has been removed, theshelf106 can act as a cover, protecting theinput device104, as described below. One of skill in the art will appreciate that theshelf106 can be directly attached to the electronic device if the electronic device is so configured. I.e., the electronic device can be configured to receive theshelf106 directly.
FIG. 2 illustrates an example of the electronicdevice gaming system100 in an open position. In at least one implementation, theinput device104 can move relative to thecase102. I.e., the user can place theinput device104 in a position that is parallel to thecase102 such that theinput device104 is both protected and hidden. The user can then slide theinput device104 relative to thecase102, exposing the controls.
FIG. 2 shows that the electronicdevice gaming system100 can be configured to receive anelectronic device202. In at least one implementation, theelectronic device202 can be placed in thecase102. I.e., thecase102 can releasably retain theelectronic device202. Theelectronic device202 can include any desired device. For example, theelectronic device202 can include a mobile phone, tablet, iPhone, Android phone, laptop or any other desired electronic device.
FIG. 2 also shows that theshelf106 can be slidably attached to theinput device104. I.e., theshelf106 can move relative to theinput device104 and vice versa. For example, theshelf106 can allow theinput device104 to be slid out for play when theelectronic device202 is in thecase102 or otherwise located proximately to theinput device104. In at least one implementation, theinput device104 can include a lock button. In at least one implementation, the lock button can lock the position of theinput device104 relative to theshelf106. For example, the lock button may engage when theinput device104 is in a particular position relative to theshelf106. The user may then need to release the lock button to allow movement. One of skill in the art will appreciate that theinput device104 can be slidably attached directly to theelectronic device202 if theelectronic device202 is so configured. I.e., theelectronic device202 can be configured to receive theinput device104 directly without the presence of a shelf and/or case. One of skill in the art will further appreciate that theinput device104 can be slidably attached directly to thecase102 if thecase102 is so configured. I.e., thecase102 can be configured to receive theinput device104 directly without the presence of a shelf.
FIG. 2 additionally shows that theshelf106 can include anopening204. In at least one implementation, theopening204 can allow a camera or other mechanism on theelectronic device202 to be used when desired. In particular, theopening204 can be configured to match the size and shape of theelectronic device202. I.e., theopening204 can be placed to ensure the desired access to theelectronic device202.
FIG. 2 moreover shows that thecase102 can include asecond opening206. In at least one implementation, thesecond opening206 can be configured to be placed parallel to theopening204 in theshelf106 when thecase102 is attached to theshelf106. I.e., thesecond opening206 and theopening204 can be placed to preserve access when thecase102 is attached to theshelf106.
FIG. 3 illustrates an example of acase102. In at least one implementation, thecase102 is configured to secure an electronic device. In particular, thecase102 can secure the electronic device relative to a gamepad. Additionally or alternatively, thecase102 can protect the electronic device. I.e., thecase102 can provide resistance to scratches or impacts.
FIG. 3 shows that thecase102 can include achannel302. In at least one implementation, the channel is configured to slidably receive a portion of a shelf. In particular, thechannel302 can receive a protrusion which is then slid into place, securing the shelf to thecase102.
FIG. 3 also shows that thecase102 can include alip304. In at least one implementation, thelip304 can include a narrowing of thechannel302. I.e., thelip304 can include an area of thechannel302 which is smaller than an alternative portion of the channel. Thelip304 can be configured to allow the protrusion on the shelf to attach to be releasably secured to thecase102. I.e., the protrusion on the shelf will slide over thelip304, securing the shelf to thecase102.
FIG. 4 illustrates an example of ashelf106. In at least one implementation, theshelf106 can allow movement of a gamepad relative to a phone case. That is, theshelf106 can allow a case and gamepad to be connected to one another and to move relative to one another.
FIG. 4 shows that theshelf106 can include aprotrusion402. In at least one implementation, theprotrusion402 is configured to be inserted into achannel302 on a case. In particular, theprotrusion402 can be inserted into achannel302 on a case then secured to thecase102, allowing theshelf106 to be attached to the case.
FIG. 4 also shows that theprotrusion402 can include agroove404. In at least one implementation, thegroove404 can be slid over a lip on a case. In particular, as thegroove404 can fit over the lip, preventing movement of theshelf106 relative to the case. I.e., thegroove404 has very little lateral clearance relative to the lip, meaning that thatshelf402 is permitted to move only small amounts laterally relative to the case.
FIG. 5 illustrates a block diagram of a gamepad500. In at least one implementation, the gamepad500 is configured to connect to an external electronic device for gaming. For example, the gamepad500 is one example of aninput device104 that can be used with the electronicdevice gaming system100 ofFIG. 1. In particular, the gamepad500 can allow a user to control one or more elements of a game which is being run and/or displayed on the electronic device.
FIG. 5 shows that the gamepad500 can include alogic device502. In at least one implementation, alogic device502 can include any device capable of performing logic functions. For example, thelogic device502 can perform Boolean logic or can produce a pre-determined output based on input. Thelogic device502 can include ROM memory, programmable logic device (PLD), programmable array logic (PAL), generic array logic (GAL), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), field programmable gate arrays (FPGA), logic gates, processors or any other device capable of performing logic functions.
In at least one implementation, thelogic device502 can control the functions of the other components of the gamepad500. In particular, thelogic device502 can ensure that the components of the gamepad500 perform their desired function at the appropriate time and in the appropriate manner. The timing of functions can be critical to ensure that the electronic device is in communication with the gamepad500 and that the gamepad500 provides data as quickly as possible to the electronic device.
In at least one implementation, thelogic device502 can free the processor or controller of the electronic device to perform other tasks. Additionally or alternatively, thelogic device502 can ensure that enough resources are available to the gamepad500 to reduce or eliminate lag time for commands. In particular, thelogic device502 can be used for processing commands input from a user and communicating the commands to the electronic device.
For example, thelogic device502 can include a microcontroller. In at least one implementation, a microcontroller (sometimes abbreviated pC, uC or MCU) is a small computer on a single integrated circuit containing a processor core, memory, and programmable input/output peripherals. Program memory in the form of NOR flash or one time programable ROM is also often included on chip, as well as a typically small amount of RAM. Microcontrollers will generally have the ability to retain functionality while waiting for an event such as a button press or other interrupt; power consumption while sleeping (CPU clock and most peripherals off) may be just nanowatts, making many of them well suited for long lasting battery applications.
FIG. 5 also shows that the gamepad500 can include acontrol array504. In at least one implementation, thecontrol array504 can include a set of buttons or other controls that allow a user to input commands. For example, the control array can include direction pads, analog sticks, buttons, touch screens or any other desired input, as described below.
FIG. 5 further shows that the gamepad500 can include a Bluetooth low energy (“BLE”)module506. In at least one implementation, theBLE module506 can allow the gamepad500 to connect to an electronic device. Bluetooth is a open wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances (using short-wavelength radio transmissions in the ISM band from 2400-2480 MHz) from fixed and mobile devices, creating personal area networks (PANs) with high levels of security. I.e., theBLE module506 allows commands to be sent from the gamepad500 to the electronic device and vice versa.
FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a gamepad500. In at least one implementation, the gamepad500 can be used to control a game on an electronic device. In particular, the gamepad500 can connect wirelessly to the electronic device to convert input from the user into a command on the electronic device.
FIG. 6 shows that the gamepad500 can include a direction pad (“D-pad”)602. In at least one implementation, the D-pad602 can include a flat, usually thumb-operated directional control with one button on each point. In particular, only the directions provided on the D-pad602 buttons can be used, with no intermediate values. However, combinations of two directions (up and left, for example) can provide diagonals and the D-pad602 can be used to provide eight-directional input if appropriate.
FIG. 6 also shows that the gamepad500 can includemenu buttons604. In at least one implementation, themenu buttons604 can allow a user to select among menu items in the electronic device. In particular, themenu buttons604 are configured to allow a user to select menu options, rather than perform in-game commands. For example, themenu buttons604 can include a “select” button, a “start” button, a “mode” button, a “home” button or any other desired button.
FIG. 6 further shows that the gamepad500 can include a set of analog sticks606. In at least one implementation, the set of analog sticks606, sometimes called a control stick or thumbstick, is an input device that is used for two-dimensional input. Ananalog stick606 is a variation of a joystick, consisting of a protrusion from the gamepad500; input is based on the position of this protrusion in relation to the default “center” position. For example, the set of analog sticks606 can use continuous electrical activity running through potentiometers to determine their current positition.
In at least one implementation, a potentiometer, informally, a pot, in electronics technology is a component, a three-terminal resistor with a sliding contact that forms an adjustable voltage divider. I.e., as theanalog stick606 moves the sliding contact is moved along the resistor. The measurement resistance measures the position of theanalog stick606 along the axis of the potentiometer. A second potentiometer perpendicular to the first potentiometer allows for position measurement in a Cartesian coordinate system.
FIG. 6 additionally shows that the gamepad500 can include one ormore action buttons608. In at least one implementation, theaction buttons608 can allow a user to perform a desired action within a game. I.e., theaction buttons608 are tied to a specific action within the game. One of skill in the art will appreciate that more than oneaction button608 may perform a single action, a particular action button may remain unused in a game, combinations may be used to perform the desired action or any other desired configuration of action button can be used to perform a desired action.
FIG. 6 moreover shows that the gamepad500 can include one ormore shoulder buttons610. In at least one implementation, theshoulder buttons610 can be positioned along the rear edge (from a standard holding position). Theshoulder buttons610 can allow a user to input additional commands related to a particular action. I.e., theshoulder buttons610, or combinations thereof, can be linked to particular actions as with theactions buttons608.
FIG. 6 also shows that the gamepad500 can include aconnection port612. In at least one implementation, theconnection port612 can allow the gamepad500 to connect to an external device. For example, theconnection port612 can allow the gamepad500 to be connected to a computer to allow software within the gamepad500 to be updated. Additionally or alternatively, theconnection port612 can be used to supply power to the gamepad500. For example, theconnection port612 can include a USB port or other desired connection.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of amethod700 for connecting an electronic device to a gamepad. In at least one implementation, the game pad can be the gamepad500 ofFIG. 1. Therefore, themethod700 will be described, exemplarily, with reference to the gamepad500 ofFIG. 1. Nevertheless, one of skill in the art can appreciate that themethod700 can be used with a gamepad other than the gamepad500 ofFIG. 1.
FIG. 7 shows that themethod700 can include powering-on702 the gamepad. In at least one implementation, powering-on702 the gamepad can include any action which indicates that the user intends to use the gamepad. For example, powering-on702 the gamepad can include the user sliding the gamepad to an open position. That is, the gamepad can be slid out from a shelf or other closed position to an open or active position which automatically powers-on702 the gamepad. Additionally or alternatively, powering-on702 the gamepad can include the user activating a power button or switch.
FIG. 7 also shows that themethod700 can include detecting704 the Bluetooth protocol. In at least one implementation, the Bluetooth protocol allows the gamepad and the electronic device to communicate with one another wirelessly. Such a connection allows the gamepad and/or the electronic device to be positioned relative to one another as desired by the user. I.e., the gamepad can be positioned by the user in a desired location relative to the electronic device. Additionally or alternatively, a wireless connection can allow the gamepad and/or the electronic device to be connected to a power source while communicating with one another. I.e., data ports can be used for power supply purposes, rather than data exchange purposes.
FIG. 7 further shows that themethod700 can include determining706 whether the security protocol is valid. In at least one implementation, a valid security protocol allows desired devices to connect to the electronic device while preventing undesired connections. For example, the security protocol can ensure that the gamepad does not access files or perform functions that are not desired based on the nature of the gamepad.
FIG. 7 additionally shows that themethod700 can include detecting708 the electronic device if the security protocol is valid. In at least one implementation, detecting708 the electronic device can include exchanging identifying information between the gamepad and the electronic device. In particular, detecting708 the electronic device can include identifying previously connected electronic devices and/or electronic devices that are within communication range.
FIG. 7 moreover shows that themethod700 can include connecting710 the gamepad to the electronic device wirelessly. In at least one implementation, connecting710 the gamepad to the electronic device wirelessly can include the gamepad and the electronic device sending signals to one another. For example, the gamepad can send control signals that are produced when a user pushes a button, moves an analog stick or performs some other action.
FIG. 7 also shows that themethod700 can include powering-off712 the gamepad if the security protocol is not approved. In at least one implementation, powering-off702 the gamepad can preserve the battery or other power source of the gamepad if the gamepad is unavailable for use. I.e., since the gamepad cannot connect to an electronic device the battery or other power source can be preserved until the problems with the security protocol can be resolved.
One skilled in the art will appreciate that, for this and other processes and methods disclosed herein, the functions performed in the processes and methods may be implemented in differing order. Furthermore, the outlined steps and operations are only provided as examples, and some of the steps and operations may be optional, combined into fewer steps and operations, or expanded into additional steps and operations without detracting from the essence of the disclosed embodiments.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating amethod800 of electronic communication between a gamepad and an electronic device. In at least one implementation, the method can allow a user to implement controls in a desired application. That is, the user can use a single gamepad with inputs converted into application defined instructions which may vary from application to application.
FIG. 8 shows that themethod800 can include identifying802 an input from a user. I.e., a user inputs a command which is identified802 by the gamepad. For example, the gamepad can identify a button push, a directional command on a directional pad, movement of an analog stick or any other command input.
FIG. 8 also shows that themethod800 can include converting804 the input into a command. In at least one implementation, the command can be the same regardless of the game being played or the electronic device. I.e., the command can be converted804 into machine code that is the same each time the particular input is identified802. The input can be converted804 to a command by a logic device or other device.
FIG. 8 further shows that themethod800 can include transforming806 the command into a Bluetooth function. In at least one implementation, the Bluetooth function includes data that is configured to be transmitted to the electronic device. The command can be transformed806 into a Bluetooth function by a logic device, BLE module or some other device. One of skill in the art will appreciate that converting804 the input into a command and transforming806 the command into a Bluetooth function can include a single step. That is, the input can be identified802 and transformed into a Bluetooth function without any intermediate steps such as converting804 the input into a command.
FIG. 8 additionally shows that themethod800 can include transmitting808 the Bluetooth function to the electronic device. In at least one implementation, the Bluetooth function can be transmitted808 wirelessly to the electronic device. In particular, the Bluetooth function can be transmitted808 by a BLE module or similar wireless device. Likewise, the Bluetooth function can be received by a Bluetooth module or similar device in the electronic device.
FIG. 8 moreover shows that themethod800 can include changing810 the Bluetooth function into an application defined instruction. In at least one implementation, the application defined instruction can include commands or inputs recognized by the application. I.e., the Bluetooth function can remain the same for each input, but be changed810 into the desired instruction within the application. For example, a movement of the analog stick may move a character in one application but change a viewing direction in another application.
The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.