CA2369187A1 - Electrically controlled racing game with information and control center - Google Patents
Electrically controlled racing game with information and control center Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2369187A1 CA2369187A1 CA002369187A CA2369187A CA2369187A1 CA 2369187 A1 CA2369187 A1 CA 2369187A1 CA 002369187 A CA002369187 A CA 002369187A CA 2369187 A CA2369187 A CA 2369187A CA 2369187 A1 CA2369187 A1 CA 2369187A1
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- pit
- display
- vehicle
- switch
- track
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- Legal status (The legal status 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 status listed.)
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63H—TOYS, e.g. TOPS, DOLLS, HOOPS OR BUILDING BLOCKS
- A63H18/00—Highways or trackways for toys; Propulsion by special interaction between vehicle and track
- A63H18/005—Accessories for indicating the winner of a race, e.g. lap counters, speed indicators
-
- 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
Abstract
A system for racing an electrically powered toy vehicle over a defined course under operator control comprises a continuous track having at least one lane (24, 26) with a pit stop segment (39) and an electrical path (30, 32) extending along the lane for providing electrical power to the vehicle. A control unit (18, 20) is operably connected to the electrical path and has at least a first manual control mechanism (96, 108) used to vary a speed of the electrical vehicle and another (97, 98) to perform at least either a tire change or a vehicle refueling pit stop function. A display unit (16), operably connected to the control unit via a microprocessor (54), displays a progression of the pit stop function in response to actuations of the other control mechanism. The display further includes a changing animated display area (154) as well as other dedicated display areas (156, 158, 160, 162, 164, 166).
Description
Attorney Docket No. 4I 10-167CN
TITLE OF THE INVENTION
[0001] Electrically Controlled Racing Game with Information and Control Center BACKGROUND OF 'THE INDENTION
TITLE OF THE INVENTION
[0001] Electrically Controlled Racing Game with Information and Control Center BACKGROUND OF 'THE INDENTION
[0002] This invention relates to toys, and more particularly to an information and control center for a toy racing system with electrically controlled vehicles that run on electrically powered tracks.
[0003] Toy racing systems of the slot, slotless, and steerable type have grown in popularity over the years. The vehicles of such systems come in a variety of sizes and styles, but each typically includes an electric motor for driving the vehicles around the track. The tracks of 1o such systems can range from.a simple oval comprising a single lane with an electrical path extending along the lane for providing electrical power to the vehicle, to multiple lanes and electrical paths disposed through an assortment of curves and Ioops to provide a challenging environment to those of more advanced operating skills, and thus more enjoyment during operation of the toy racing system.
i5 [0004] In an effort to more realistically' portray actual racing conditions, U.S. Patent No.
i5 [0004] In an effort to more realistically' portray actual racing conditions, U.S. Patent No.
4,247,107 issued to Smith, III et al. has proposed an electronically controlled road race system with facilities for starting a race, counting and displaying completed Iaps for each car, calculating and displaying remaining fuel for each car, introducing random failures for each car, and a track section that is decoupled from track power for the performance of pit functions. In __ 20 order to refuel a car during a pit stop, a pit switch must be continuously actuated for nine seconds before the car is fully refueled. For repairs of different failure conditions, the pit switch must be actuated for predetermined time periods depending on the type, and thus the severity of the failure. Although this system ~ovides a moxe realistic approach to actual racing events, there is no provision for interactive control and feedback of the pit stop fimctions where the length of time in the pit stop is dependent on the aperatar's skill.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] In its broadest sense, the invention is a system including an electrically powered toy vehicle and a continuous loop track for racing the electrically powered toy vehicle under operator control, the continuous track having at least one lane, an electrical path (30, 32) extending along the lane for providing electrical power to the vehicle about the track, and a pit stop segment (39) along the at least one lane, the pit stop segment being electrically separated 14 from a remainder of the electrical path, characterized by: a control unit (18, 20) operably connected with the electrical path to control vehicle propulsion and further including a control mechanism (97) to electronically control performance of at least one simulated pit stop function on an electrically powered toy vehicle while in the pit stop segment; and an electrically operated display unit (16) operably connected with the control unit and configured to generate a visual display of a progression of the at least one simulated pit stop function in response to manipulation of the control mechanism.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0046] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the 24 appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there is shown in the drawings embodiments which are presently preferred. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.
[0007] In the drawings:
(0008] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of ari iriforrriation and control center according to the invention;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the information and control center of FIG. 1;
[0010] FIG. 3 is an enlarged rear perspective view of a lower tower portion that forms part of the information and control center;
[0011] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a first electronic circuit according to the invention for operating the information and control center;
[0012] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a second electronic circuit according to the invention for operating the information and control center;
l0 [0013] FIG. 6 shows a display panel that forms part of the information and control center;
(0014] FIGS. 7. A to 7C show image frames for a starting race animation sequence;
[0015] FIGS. 8A to 8E show image frames for selecting a desired number of laps;
[0016] FIGS. 9A to 9F show image frames for a count down animation sequence;
(0017] FIGS. IOA to IOC show image flames for a starting flag animation sequence;
[0018] FIGS. 1 IA to I 1C show image frames that illustrate an animation sequence for a default side view of a running vehicle;
(0019] FIGS. 12A to I2C show image frames that illustrate an animation sequence for driving a vehicle as viewed from the inside of the vehicle;
[0020] FIGS. 13A to 13C show image frames that illustrate an animation sequence for 2o approaching a pit stop as viewed from the inside of a vehicle;
[0021] FIGS. 14A to 14N show image frames that illustrate an animation sequence for a fuel pit stop;
[0022] FIGS. 15A to 15D show image frames that illustrate an animation sequence for a tire pit stop;
[0023] FIGS. 16A to 16L show image frames that illustrate an animation sequence for a vehicle crash;
[0024] FIGS. 17A to 17B show image frames that illustrate a side view animation sequence for a vehicle crash;
[0025] FIGS. 1$A to 18D show image frames for a finish flag animation sequence;
[0026] FIGS. 19A and 19B show image frames for a crowd movement animation sequence;
and t 0 [0027] FIGS. 20A to 20D show image frames for the top three positions of a finished race.
[0028] It is noted that the drawings are; intended to represent only typical embodiments of the invention and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope thereof.
The invention will now be described in greater detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like parts throughout the drawing figures are represented by like numerals.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0029] Referring now to the drawings, and to FIG.'s 1 and 2 in particular, an information and control center 10 according to the present invention for use with electrically-powered vehicles is illustrated. The center IO is used with an otherwise conventional continuous loop track and one or more electrically powered toy vehicles, neither depicted. Such tracks include ax least one lane and an electrical path extending along the lane for providing electrical power to at least one of the toy vehicles about the track. As shown, the center I O
includes a base member 12, a tower 14 extending generally upwardly from the base member, an electrically operated display unit or simply "display" 16 pivotally connected to W upper end of the tower, and a pair of hand control units 18, 20 that are removably mounted on the base member 12.
[0030] The base member 12 includes a selector button 2I for turning the system on, selecting different game options viewed on the display 16, and for resetting the information and control center 10, as will be described in greater detail below. An elongate channel 22 is formed in the base member 12 and two sets of tracks 24, 26 extend along a bottom of the channel. Each track 24, 26 may include a slot 28 with a conductive rail 30, 32 on either side of the slot. The slot 28 would be adapted to receive a guide pin (not shown) from an electrically-powered vehicle {not shown), while the conductive rails are engageable with corresponding contacts on l0 the vehicle for driving a motor, lights, and so on in the vehicle, in a well-known manner. A
combination electricalimechautical connector 34, 36 is located at opposite ends of each track 24, 26 for electrically and mechanically coupling with other track segments (not shown) and into the continuous loop track. The base member 12 together with the other track segments are preferably arranged in a continuous loop so that the vehicles can complete several laps. A pair of isolation areas 37 and 38 (represented by dashed lines in FIG. 1) are preferably formed by two pairs of breaks 43 (FIG. 4) in each of the conductive rails 32 to form an isolated conductive rail segment 45. A pit stop area 39 is defined between the isolation areas 37 and 38 of each track 24 and 26. Two jumper wires 47 connect the ends of each conductive rail 32 around the breaks 43 so that power may be selectively supplied to and cut off from each set of tracks 24, 26 in the continuous loop of track segments, as will be described in greater detail below.
[003I] The tower 14 includes a front wall 40 (FIG. 1), a rear wall 41, and a rear cover 42 that connects to the rear wall (FIG. 2}. The front wall 40, rear wall 41, and rear cover 42 form a hollow interior 44 (FiG. 3). A lower end 46 of the tower 14 fits within a mounting flange 48 formed in the base member I2. The tower 14 is securely connected to the base member 12 through fasteners (e.g., screws) , but may be secured through adhesive bonding, ultrasonic welding, or other well-known fastening means.
[0032] A generally cylindrical speaker housing 50 is formed at the lower end 46 of the tower 14 and contains a speaker 52, preferably of the paper cone type. A battery power supply 51 (FIG. 5) is located in the hollow interior 44 of the tower 14 above the speaker 52 and can be accessed by removing the rear cover 42. An upper end 53 of the tower I4 includes opposing, hollow support arms 55, 57 that extend in a generally horizontal direction for pivotally supporting the display 16, as will be described in further detail below.
[0033] The two hand control units I8, 20, the control button. 21, the two sets of tracks 24, 26, the isolation areas 37, 38, and the pit stop area 39 are all operably (at least electrically) connected to a control system including a microcontroller 54 (FIG. 5j or other processor through a circuit board 56 (FIG. 4) mounted in the base member 12 and a connector card 58 (FIG. 3) mounted in the lower end 46 of the tower below the speaker housing 50. As shown, the connector card 58 plugs into the circuit board 56 through a generally vertically oriented plug module 60 mounted on the circuit board. The display 16 and the speaker 52 are also coupled to the microeontroller 54. The microcontroller 54 (FIG. 5) is preferably a 4-bit microcontroller operating at 4Mhz, and' includes 256 kb ROM with sound storage and compression features, 16 kb SRAM, a LCD driver, and various input, output, and I/O ports.
(0034] Preferably, the microcontroller 54 is located in the display 16 on a controller board 62 (FIG. 5), but may be positioned at any desired location in the center I0, such as in the tower I4 or base member 12. When positioned in the display 16, a connector cable 64 (FIG. 5) extends from the controller board 62 to the connector card 58. 'The microcontroller 54display 16, and speaker 52 are preferably powered by the battery power supply S I located in the tower 14.
Alternatively a wall transformer 75 (FIG: 4) for supplying electrical power to the tracks 24, 26 may supply power to the display; speaker, and the microcor~troller with suitable rectifier circuitry.
[0035] The display 16 includes a housing 76 that encloses a~ display panel 78.
Preferably, the display panel 78 is a LCD panel, but may alternatively be in the form of a dot-matrix panel, an LED panel, a CRT, and so on. A pair of spaced L-shaped arms 80, 82 are integrally formed with the housing 76. Each arm includes a first arm portion 84 that extends generally downwardIy and a second arm portion 86 that extends generally horizontally toward the tower to 14. The second arm portions are pivotally received in the opposing, hollow support arms 55, 57. In this manner, the position of the display 16 can be adjusted by tilting the display about the support arms to a desired viewing position. The hollow support arms and second arm portions are preferably dimensioned so that frictional contact between the support arms and second arm portions normally keeps the display in the adjusted position. A
visor 88 is formed 15 on the housing 76 for shading the display panel 78 against direct light.
[0036] Each hand control unit 18, 20 includes a generally inverted L-shape housing 90 with a handle portion 92 that can be grasped and held by a user and a head portion 94 that extends generally transverse to the handle portion. One manually operable control mechanism of each unit I 8, 20 includes a trigger 96 extending out of the housing at an intersection of the handle 2o portion 92 and the head portion 94. The trigger 96 is manually operable to move a wiper arm (not shown} against a resistance strip of a variable resistor 108 (FIG. 4) when depressed to thereby vary the voltage across the variable resistor 108 and control the velocity of a vehicle on its associated track: Another manually operable control mechanism includes a control button _7_ 98, which is located at a rear end 100 of each head portion 94. Each control button 98 constitutes the button portion of a push-button momentary contact switch, which is connected to a separate port of the microcontroller 54. Button 98 is manually operable to supply a logical high signal to the microcontroller 54 when depressed. The control button 98 is used to selected desired game options through a set of visual displays on the display panel 78 and to perform certain simulated required maintenance activities (i.e., pit stop functions) on the vehicles during the race as will be explained. The hand control units 18, 20 are preferably hard-wired to the circuit board 56 (FIG. 4), but may alternatively communicate with the microcontroller 54 through infrared, radio wave, or other well-known wireless communication means.
l0 [0037) Turning now to FIGS. 4 and 5, electronic circuitry for the information and control center 10 including the control system is illustrated. As shown in FIG. 4, conductive rails 30 of the track 24 (designated as "LANE #1 ") and the track 26 (designated as "LANE
#2") are connected to one side of a transformer power supply 134, while the conductive rails 32 of the tracks 24 and 26 are connected to the other side of the supply l 34 through one side of the 15 trigger-actuated variable resistors 108 of the hand control units 18 and 20, respectively. A
comparator circuit 110, 112 is connected to each of the variable resistors 108 of the hand control units 18 and 20, respectively, for detera~ning if the trigger 96 in one or both units 18, 20 is being actuated. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, it is determined that the trigger 96 is actuated when a voltage across the variable resistor 108 in the hand control 2o unit 18, 20 is greater than 0.2 Volts. The comparator circuit then sends a logic "1" to the appropriate port of the mierocontroller 54 (FIG. 4) through a delay circuit 114 or 116. When the voltage across the hand control unit is less than or equal to 0.2 Volts, the comparator circuit sends a logic "0" to the appropriate port, indicating that the trigger is not being pulled.
_g_ [0038] A comparator circuit 118; I20 is also connected to each of the variable resistors I O& of the hand control units 18 and 20, respectively, for determining if a vehicle is present on one or both tracks 24, 26. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, it is determined that the vehicle is properly positioned on the track when a voltage measured across the tracks, and thus across the vehicle, is greater than 0.2 Volts. Each comparator circuit 118, 120 then sends a logic "1" to the appropriate port of the microcontroller 54 (FIG. 4~.
When the voltage across the track, and thus the vehicle, is less than or equal to 0.2 Volts, the comparator circuit sends a logic "0" to the appropriate port, indicating that the vehicle is not properly seated on the track.
to [0039] Each delay circuit 114, 1 I6 is used to keep the voltage high for a predetermined time period so that, once the microcontroller 54 determines that a vehicle is not properly seated on the track, the microcontroller 54 also has time to determine if the associated trigger 96 is being pressed. Preferably, the predetermined time period is approximately 0.3 second longer than the track compare time. If it has been determined that the vehicle is improperly seated and that the 15 trigger 96 is pressed; the microcontroller 54 will conclude that the vehicle has left the track and crashed. The microcontroller 54 can then access an appropriate sound file in memory and send it to the speaker output to thereby audibly indicate that a crash has occurred. An appropriate animation file can also be accessed and sent to the display panel 78, to thereby visually indicate that a crash has occurred.
20 [0040) A circuit 122 receives AC power from the transformer power supply I34 and rectifies it through a resistor, Zener diode, and capacitor arrangement. The rectified power is used to drive the comparator circuits I 10, 112, 118, and 120. Although not shown, the rectif ed power may also be used to drive the microcontroller 134 and other related components and circuitry, in place of the battery power supply 51 as previously described.
[0041) The positive side of the wall transformer 134 is connected to the conductive rails 30 of the tracks 24 and 26, as well as the variable resistors 108 of the hand control units 18 and 20, respectively. The conductive rails 30 are also connected to a DPDT switch 124 so that a user can select between-playing with or without the functions associate with the information and control center 10.
[0042) A first solid state switch 130 is operated by the microcontroller 54 for supplying power to or cutting power from the track 24. Likewise, a second solid state switch 132 is operated by 1o the microcontroller 54 for supplying power to or cutting power from the track 26, in response to logical signals from the tracks 24, 26 and hand control units 18, 20.
[0043) The isolated conductive rail segments 45 of the isolated areas 37 and 38 for both tracks 24 and 26 are also connected to the microcontroller 54 through signal conditioning circuitry I26 as shown. Preferably, each rail segment 45 is associated with a separate port of the 15 microcontroller 54. A logical "1" is sent to the appropriate port of the microcontroller 54 when a car with its contacts passes over one of the isolated rail segments 45 to thereby connect the conductive rail 30 with the isolated rail 45 of each track 24, 26. The logical "1" represents that the vehicle has passed a particular isolation area. If, for example, the track 26 of the isolation area 37 registers a logical "1 ", it is determined that the vehicle has passed over the isolation 2o area 37 of the track 26. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the isolation areas 37 and 38 are each approximately one inch in length. l.Tnder normal operating conditions, the momentum of the vehicle will carry it over the isolation area and back onto the conductive rail 32. Preferably, the isolation area 37 is used to determine the number of laps that each vehicle has traveled, and also signals entrance ofthe vehicle into the pit stop area 39. The isolation area 38 signals departure of the vehicle from the pit stop.
[0044] In order to determine if the vehicle has stopped in the pit stop area 39, a timer is started when the vehicle passes the isolation area 37. If the vehicle fails to pass the isolation area 38 within a predetermined time period, it is determined that the vehicle is located in the pit stop area. Power is then cut from the track that the vehicle is on, until the appropriate pit stop functions are completed.
[0045] The microcQntroller 54 is programmed to keep track of the number of laps completed, the amount of time taken to complete the laps, the amount of"fuel" that has been used by each 1o vehicle, and the "tire wear" by each vehicle. The amount of fuel used and the tire wear are preferably based on a predetermined number of laps. In addition, power to the tracks is cut off until a vehicle is sensed to be on each track to thereby prevent starting a race. Alternatively, a race may start when it is determined that at least one vehicle is properly located on the track.
[0046] Players must stop their vehicles in the pit stop area 39 between the isolation areas to 15 "refueP' and "change tires" when the visual display indicates they are low on fuel or rubber.
The microcontroller 54 cuts off power to a player's track if the player does not pit before running out of fuel or rubber. Players simulate refuel and re-tire pit stop functions by repeatedly manipulating (e.g. pressing) the control button 98 on their hand control units while their vehicle is in the pit stop area 39. The visual displays are updated by the microcontroller 20 54 to indicate fuel intake and tire changes. The vehicles must be fully refueled or re-tired before the microcontroller 54 will provide power for them to leave the pit stop area 39. During the last lap before a required pit stop, power to the track can be pulsed at a 50% duty cycle to simulate a vehicle running out of fuel or a vehicle with bad tires:
Preferably, the pulsed power to the track is on for one second and off for one second so that "car trouble"
can be clearly noticed by a player.
[0047] Appropriate sound effects for both players are generated by the microcontroller 54.
These include countdown beeps that go with a countdown display to begin a race; various engine sounds including motor idle during countdown and pit periods, peel-out when leaving the pit stop area after fueling or re-tiring, high speed sound while racing, crowd cheering at the end of a race, crash sounds, Doppler effect sounds as the vehicles pass through the pit stop area, and so on. A number of visual effects are generated on the display panel 78 including front and side animated views of the vehicles, a starting flag, a finishing flag, vehicle refueling, vehicle being re-tired, vehicle crashing, and so on, as will be described in greater detail below. 1f desired, separate microcontrollers or other processing means, display panels and speakers can be provided for each player.
[0048] With reference now to FIG. 6, the display panel 78, preferably in the form of a LCD
panel, is electronically divided into two identical sections 150 and i 52.
Each section 150, 152 is associated with a different vehicle and thus a different user: Since each section is identical, only the section 152 will be described. The section I52 includes several individual displays including a dot matrix display 154, preferably in the form of a 30 x 30 dot matrix display.
[0049] Two digit registers constitute a Iap counter visual display i 56 used to display the total number of laps during a race, and should begin at '00' and sequence through '01'...'02'...'03' etc. When the player has reached his last lap, both registers of the counter 156 preferably flash on and off at a 70% duty-cycle to signal the last lap. For a 100-lap race, the '00' is preferably displayed in the absence of the ' 1' in 100 to reduce cost and conserve image space.
[0050] A lap indicator segment visual display 158 in the form of an elliptical arrow, preferably flashes at a 70% duty-cycle to signal that a race is in progress. The lap indicator segment 158 preferably begins flashing when the race begins and then stays illuminated after the race ends.
[0051] Four registers constitute a timer visual display 160 used to display the amount of time taken to finish a race. During the 'best race' visual display sequence, the timer 160 is preferably linked with the dot matrix display 154 and cycles through the top three race times for a preselected number of laps. If a new high score is achieved, the timer 160 will preferably flash with the lap indicator segment 158 at a 50% duty-cycle.
[0052] A first place visual display icon 162 is used to show first place position in the race.
1o This segment 162 is preferably illuminated when the player is leading the race. At the finish of a race, this segment preferably flashes at a 50% duty-cycle.
(0053] A second place visual display icon 164 is used to show second place position in the race. This icon 164 is preferably illuminated when the player is in second place position during the race. At the finish of the race, this icon 164 also preferably flashes at a 50% duty-cycle.
[0054] A finish flag, visual display icon 166 is used to signal the finish of a race: The finish flag icon 166 is preferably linked to the first and second place icons and also flashes at a 50% duty cycle at the end of the race on the side of the winner.
[0055] A gas icon visual display 168 in the form of a rotated gas can includes a plurality of segments 169 (e.g. four) that show the amount of fuel remaining in fuel tanl~.
As the vehicle 2o travels through several laps, the microcontroller calculates how much fuel is used. One by one, the fuel segments turn off, beginning at the top segment. During a pit stop for'refueling, these segments turn back on, preferably one at a time, as the animated fuel enters the vehicle.
Approximately half way through the predetermined duration of the last fuel segment, the last _13_ fuel segment preferably begins flashing at a 50% duty-cycle, and after three seconds triggers the pit animation on the display 154. An audio warning that a pit stop is needed can also be played through the speaker 52. If the player does not make the necessary pit stop, power to the player's track will be turned off to force the pit stop. Preferably, the power is .turned off ax an s appropriate moment so that when the vehicle comes to rest, it will be in the pit stop area 39.
Alternatively, the vehicle can be powered at a very Iow duty cycle (e.g. S% or 10%) o limp around the track to the pit area.
[0056] A gas can visual display icon 170 is preferably always illuminated and encompasses the fuel segments 169.
[0057] A tire visual display icon indicated generally at 172 has four tire segments 174 in the form of four individual tire representations that represent the tread on the tires of the vehicles.
The tire segments 174 are preferably illuminated at the beginning of a race and turn off one at a time in a predetermined order. For example, the tire segments 174 may turn off in the following order: 1 ) top left, 2) top right; 3) bottom left, and 4) bottom right. Approximately 1s half way through the specified wear of the last tire, the Iast tire segment preferably begins to flash and after three seconds the pit animation is triggered. An audio warning can also be played through the speaker 52.
[0058] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first, second and third fuel segments 169 will have a duration of five laps, while the foLUth fuel segment will have duration 2o between 3 to 5 laps. The duration of the fourth fuel segment is preferably determined randomly by the microcontroller. Half way through the determined duration of the fourth (last) fuel segment, it preferably begins to flash at a s0% duty-cycle.
[0059] As shown in TABLE 1 below, and by way of example, when a 10-lap race is chosen by a player, no fuel pit stop will be required. However, when a 25-lap race is selected, a pit stop for refueling must be taken between 18 and 20 laps. Likewise, when a 75-lap race is chosen, two pit stops must be taken, one between 18 and 20 laps, and the other between 36 and 40 Laps.
As shown, a greater number of specified laps for a race will require a greater number of pit stops for refueling:
[0060]
Necessary Fuel Laps 18-20 Laps 36-40 Laps 72-75 Laps 90-100 Pit Lap Race N1A N/A N/A NIA
25 Lap Race _ X _ N/A NiA N/A
_ 50 Lap Race X X N/A NIA
?5 Lap Race X X X N/A
100 Lap Race X X X X
I I
[0061] As shown in 'TABLE 2 below; and by way of example, when a i 0-lap or 25-lap race is chosen by a player, no tire pit stop will Ix required. However, when a 50-lap or 75-lap race is l0 selected, a pit stop for "changing" the tires must be taken at the 44.x' lap. Likewise, when a 100-lap race is chosen, two tire changing pit stops must be taken, one at the 44~' lap and the other at the 88~' lap. The tire changing pit stops are in addition to the fueling pit stops.
[0062]
Necessary Tire Pit . Lap # 44 Lap # 88 Lap Race N/A N/A
25 Lap Race NIA N/A
SO Lap Race X N/A
75 Lap Race X N/A
I00 Lap Race X X
[0063] In operation; and with reference now to FIGS. 7A to 7C; the button 21 is depressed at the beginning of a race to provide power to the information and control center 10. Any time during the race, or after the race is over, the button 21 can be pressed and held to start another 5 race. At the beginning of a new game, or after a game has been reset by depressing the button 21, a start-up animation will be. displayed in the dot-matrix areas of the display panel 78. As shown, a finishing flag waving sequence preferably loops through three animation frames (FIG.
7A, FIG. 7B, and FIG. 7C) about five times, although more or less flag loops can occur. A
sound file representative of crowd noise can be played through the speaker during the flag 10 loops.
[0064] Next, and with reference now to FIGS. 8A to 8E, a lap select sequence is displayed.
The player can depress the button 21 to specify the desired number of laps for a race, such as 10, 25, 50, 75, or i 00 Iaps. One press of the button 21 sequences the display to a higher lap number. As shown in FIG. 8B; the 10- and 25-lap image is shown in the dot-matrix display 154 with a selection bar highlighting the L0-lap image. Preferably, the selection bar flashes at a 50% duty cycle until a selection is made. The player can then depress the control button 98 on one of the hand control units 18, 20 to .select the 10-lap game. If a game with more than I O laps is desired, the button 2i can be depressed again, without depressing the control button 98, to highlight the 25-lap image {FIG. 8C). When the button 21 is depressed again, the 25- and 50-lap image is shown with the 25-lap image highlighted (FIG. 8D). When the button 21 is depressed again, the 50-Iap image will be highlighted (FIG. 8E). Preferably, the lap selection display scrolls sequentially from 10/25 laps to 25/50 laps to 50/75 laps to 75/100 laps to 100//0 laps and back to 10/25 laps in a continuous loop, as long as the button 21 is repeatedly depressed. In an alternative arrangement; the lap selection display can scroll sequentially from 10125 to 50/75 to 100/10 and back to 10/25 in order to speed the selection of a desired lap number. _ [0465] Preferably, each time the button 21 is depressed, a distinctive sound such as an engine 1o revving sound is played through the speaker. Once a player chooses a particular lap number by pressing the control button 98, another distinctive sound such as, a "peel-out" sound is preferably played through the speaker.
(4466] Referring now to FIGS. 9A to 9F, a series of sequential count-down frames is illustrated. Once a desired number of Iaps are selected, a one-second pause is initiated during 15 which the dot-matrix display 154 turns black (FIG. 9A). During this time;
the microcontroller determines whether any vehicles are properly located on the track; e.g:
whether the electrical tabs on a bottom of a vehicle are in electrical contact with the rails 30 and 32. If it is determined that no vehicles are present, the display 154 remains black. Once it is determined that a vehicle is properly positioned on the track, the countdown preferably begins three 2o seconds after the vehicle is connected. As shown in FIG. 9B, the count begins: at "5" and preferably lasts one second. A beep sound can be played for each countdown frame as shown in FIGS. 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E, and 9F. An engine idle sound also preferably plays along with the _17_ beeps. Once the countdown is completed, the dot matrix display 154 preferably blanks out for approximately 0.5 second, as shown; in FIG. 9A.
[0067] With reference now to FIGS. 10A to l OC, three sequential frames of a starting flag waving sequence are illustrated. In FIG. 10A, a first frame of a starting flag sequence is displayed with a flag in the right position in each dot matrix display 154. At the same time, a timer begins counting, as shown by the timer 160. A "peel-out" sound can be played in conjunction with display of the first starting flag frame. In FIG. l OB, a second starting flag frame is displayed with the flag in a center position, and the timer 160 is updated. At this point, the lap indicator icon 156 preferably beginsflashing at a SO% duty cycle. In FIG. IOC, a third 1 o starting flag frame is displayed with the flag in a left position, and the timer 160 is again updated. Preferably, the starting flag.rapidly sequences through the thxee frames for a total of three cycles. Of course, it is to be understood that more or less frames can be provided, and that the frames can sequence over more or less than three cycles. The display at this point also shows that the first place icon i 62 is illuminated in the display section 1 S0, while the second 15 place icon 164 is illuminated in the display section 1 S2, indicating that the vehicle associated with the display section 150 is ahead of the vehicle associated with the display section 1 S2.
[0068] With reference now to FIGS. 11A to 11C, three sequential frames of a default side view of a traveling vehicle in the dot matrix displays 154 is illustrated. As shown in FIG. 1 1A, the first frame shows a vertical bar 180 and a spoke wheel 182 at a first position. In FIG. 11B, the 2o vertical bar 180 and spoke wheel 182 are at a second position. Finally, in FIG. 11 C, the vertical bar 180 and spoke wheel 182 are at a third position. The change in position of the vertical bar and spoke wheel in this manner gives the appearance that the vehicle in each display 1 S4 is moving. Preferably; the temp of the animation is relative to the position of the trigger 96 (FIG. 2) of each of the hand control units 18 and 20. Thus, the frames associated with one vehicle may be sequenced at a greater rate than the frames of another vehicle when the one vehicle is traveling faster than the other vehicle. When the frames are displayed, a sound file is also played and looped with the frames. In addition, the timer 160 and lap counter 156 are continuously updated for each vehicle until the players) pass the finish line.
.(0069] With reference now to FIGS. i2A to i2C, three sequential frames of an inside view of a vehicle from a driver's perspective looking forward in the car for the dot matrix displays 154 are illustrated. During the course of the race, the microcontroller will specify, in a random manner, that these frames be substituted for the default side view frames of FIGS. 11A to 11C.
to Preferably, the frames Ioop rapidly between the FIG. 12A, FIG. 12B and FIG.
12C frames to simulate movement of a drieer's hands on a steering wheel (FIG 12A straight, 12B left tum, I2C right turn). This sequence is also preferably used in conjunction with the default pit view sequence as a lead-in animafiion.
(0070] With reference now to FIGS. I3A to 13C, three sequential frames of an inside view from a driver's perspective looking forward in the car of a vehicle approaching the pit stop area are illustrated. This sequence is shared with the fuel pit and tire pit animations, as will be described in greater detail below. This sequence is preferably used in conjunction with the default inside view (FIGS. 12A-12C) and the appropriate pit animation. During this animation, an audio warning of low fuel or worn tires can be played.
[0071] With reference now to FIGS. 14A to 14N, fourteen sequential frames of a fuel pit animation for the dot matrix display 154 are illustrated. When the vehicle is halfway through its last fuel segment 169 (FIG. 6), a pit stop will be necessary. The player's power to the track is preferably cut off while the vehicle is in the pit stop area 39. The player will be playing the part of the pit-crew by manipulation of the control button 98 (FIG. 2) on the hand control uziit I 8 or 20 to advance the re-fueling animation, e.g. bringing the fuel can icon 168' on screen (FIGS.
14A through 14F). As soon as the player presses the control button 98 five times, the animated tank 168' will drain one segment 169' (FIG. 14G) while the segmented fuel tank 168 (FIG. 6) increases by one segment 169. For a total of four segments, as shown in FIG.
6, the player must press the control button a total of twenty times before the animated fuel can i 68' is empty and all the fuel segments 169 are full (FIGS. 14G through 14L). Of course, it is to be understood that more or less fuel segments can be provided, as well as the number of times the control button 98 must be pressed to "fill" a segment. The animated fuel can 168' is then 1o removed,(FIGS. I4M and 14N). During the pit stop, the timer 160 continues to count.
Although the lap indicator will not change during the pit stop, it will continue to flash. The engine idle sound can be played during the pit stop, and the peel-out sound can be played when the vehicle takes off again. Preferably, the power to the player's track will remain off until the control button 98 has been depressed the required number of times.
15 [0072] With reference now to FIGS. Z SA to 15D, four sequential frames of a fire pit animation for the dot matrix display 154 are illustrated. The animated tire change icon 172' is represented by the front half of a vehicle and one tire. When the vehicle is halfway through its last tire segment 174 (FIG. 6), a pit stop will be necessary on the next lap. The player's power to the track is preferably cut off while the vehicle is in the pit stop area 39. In FIG. I SA, the vehicle 2o is shown in a lowered position I72', indicating that alI of the tires are worn and require replacement. In FIG. 15B, the vehicle is shown in a raised position. In FIG.
15C, the vehicle is shown in a raised position with the wheel removed. In FIG. 1 SD, the vehicle is shown in a normal operating position. In order to change each wheel, the player must press the control button 98 five times. A tire 174' changes from a flattened condition (FIG. 1 SA) to a missing condition (FIG. ISC) to a first new tire condition (FIG. 15D) on the dot matrix display 154 while a new tire 174 appears on the segmented tire area 172. Preferably, the animation is suspended at the FIG. 1 SC frame while the additional tires are being installed but may be s cycled between FIGS. 1 SA and 15C for each tire change. The player is able to tell how may tires have been changed by watching the tire segments 174 illuminate one-by-one in the tire area 172. When the tire changes are complete, the above animation sequence preferably reverses order. During the tire pit stop, the timer 160 continues to count.
Although the lap indicator will not change during the tire pit stop, it will continue to flash.
The engine idle 1o sound can be played during the pit stop; and the peel-out sound can be played when the vehicle takes off again. Preferably, the power to the player's track will remain off until the control button 98 has been depressed the required number of times to change all four tires.
[0073] With reference now to FIGS: l 6A to 16L and FIGS. 17A and 17B, sequential frames of a crash animation for the dot matrix display 154 are illustrated. If at any time the processor 15 determines that a crash has occurred (by sensing that a vehicle has left contact with the track with the trigger 96 depressed; as previously described), the frames 16A
through 16L showing the driver's face and the inside of the vehicle are preferably displayed in sequence. The frames showing the side view of a crash (FIGS. 17A and I7B) are also displayed in sequence. A
crashing sound can be played during the initial sequence (FIGS: 16A to 16L) and an engine idle 2o sound can be played during the side view crash sequence (FIGS. 17A and 17B). Once the car is put back on the track, the animation preferably switches to the default side view frames {FIGS.
11 A to 11 C). During the crash, the timer 160 continues to count and the lap indicator continues to flash, although it will not increase in value.
[0074] With reference now to FIGS. 18A to I 8D, sequential frames of a waving finish 'flag for the dot matrix display I 54 are illustrated. Once the player has completed his final Iap by crossing the finish Iine (isolated area 37 in FIG. 1 ), the finish flag animation will begin across the winner's display 154. Power will still be supplied to both tracks, but each timer 160 will stop when its associated vehicle crosses the finish line. Preferably, the frames I8B to 18D are sequentially cycled for three times. The final position 162 or 164 of the vehicle can also flash on its associated display 154 along with the checkered flag icon 166. The crowd sound can also he played simultaneously.
[0075] As shown in FIGS. I9A and 19B, two frames of a crowd animation are illustrated.
to After the finish flag animation stops, the crowd loop animation can begin.
The iwo frames illustrated in FIGS. I9A and 19B preferably loop for about ~-6 seconds. The crowd sound can continue to play with the crowd animation.
[0076] After the crowd sequence stops; the canned 'top 3 times' animation will begin, as shown in FIGS. 20A to 20D for the dot matrix displays 154. The top three times in the selected race is 15 stored in the memory of the microcontroiler and displayed for about two seconds: The animation preferably begins with an engine sewing sound and then finishes with the crowd sound. After the animation, the game loops back to the lap selection sequence (FIGS. 8A to 8E). If both vehicles for the current race did not place in the; top three times, the canned 'top 3 times' can be skipped and the game can loop back to the lap selection sequence.
20 [0077] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. By way of example, although the above-described functions are preferably accomplished through use of a processor, such as a microprocessor, it will be understood that other processing means can be used, such as a programmable logic device, digital circuitry, analog circuitry, or combinations thereof. It will be understood, therefore, that this invention is not Limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0046] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the 24 appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there is shown in the drawings embodiments which are presently preferred. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.
[0007] In the drawings:
(0008] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of ari iriforrriation and control center according to the invention;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the information and control center of FIG. 1;
[0010] FIG. 3 is an enlarged rear perspective view of a lower tower portion that forms part of the information and control center;
[0011] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a first electronic circuit according to the invention for operating the information and control center;
[0012] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a second electronic circuit according to the invention for operating the information and control center;
l0 [0013] FIG. 6 shows a display panel that forms part of the information and control center;
(0014] FIGS. 7. A to 7C show image frames for a starting race animation sequence;
[0015] FIGS. 8A to 8E show image frames for selecting a desired number of laps;
[0016] FIGS. 9A to 9F show image frames for a count down animation sequence;
(0017] FIGS. IOA to IOC show image flames for a starting flag animation sequence;
[0018] FIGS. 1 IA to I 1C show image frames that illustrate an animation sequence for a default side view of a running vehicle;
(0019] FIGS. 12A to I2C show image frames that illustrate an animation sequence for driving a vehicle as viewed from the inside of the vehicle;
[0020] FIGS. 13A to 13C show image frames that illustrate an animation sequence for 2o approaching a pit stop as viewed from the inside of a vehicle;
[0021] FIGS. 14A to 14N show image frames that illustrate an animation sequence for a fuel pit stop;
[0022] FIGS. 15A to 15D show image frames that illustrate an animation sequence for a tire pit stop;
[0023] FIGS. 16A to 16L show image frames that illustrate an animation sequence for a vehicle crash;
[0024] FIGS. 17A to 17B show image frames that illustrate a side view animation sequence for a vehicle crash;
[0025] FIGS. 1$A to 18D show image frames for a finish flag animation sequence;
[0026] FIGS. 19A and 19B show image frames for a crowd movement animation sequence;
and t 0 [0027] FIGS. 20A to 20D show image frames for the top three positions of a finished race.
[0028] It is noted that the drawings are; intended to represent only typical embodiments of the invention and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope thereof.
The invention will now be described in greater detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like parts throughout the drawing figures are represented by like numerals.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0029] Referring now to the drawings, and to FIG.'s 1 and 2 in particular, an information and control center 10 according to the present invention for use with electrically-powered vehicles is illustrated. The center IO is used with an otherwise conventional continuous loop track and one or more electrically powered toy vehicles, neither depicted. Such tracks include ax least one lane and an electrical path extending along the lane for providing electrical power to at least one of the toy vehicles about the track. As shown, the center I O
includes a base member 12, a tower 14 extending generally upwardly from the base member, an electrically operated display unit or simply "display" 16 pivotally connected to W upper end of the tower, and a pair of hand control units 18, 20 that are removably mounted on the base member 12.
[0030] The base member 12 includes a selector button 2I for turning the system on, selecting different game options viewed on the display 16, and for resetting the information and control center 10, as will be described in greater detail below. An elongate channel 22 is formed in the base member 12 and two sets of tracks 24, 26 extend along a bottom of the channel. Each track 24, 26 may include a slot 28 with a conductive rail 30, 32 on either side of the slot. The slot 28 would be adapted to receive a guide pin (not shown) from an electrically-powered vehicle {not shown), while the conductive rails are engageable with corresponding contacts on l0 the vehicle for driving a motor, lights, and so on in the vehicle, in a well-known manner. A
combination electricalimechautical connector 34, 36 is located at opposite ends of each track 24, 26 for electrically and mechanically coupling with other track segments (not shown) and into the continuous loop track. The base member 12 together with the other track segments are preferably arranged in a continuous loop so that the vehicles can complete several laps. A pair of isolation areas 37 and 38 (represented by dashed lines in FIG. 1) are preferably formed by two pairs of breaks 43 (FIG. 4) in each of the conductive rails 32 to form an isolated conductive rail segment 45. A pit stop area 39 is defined between the isolation areas 37 and 38 of each track 24 and 26. Two jumper wires 47 connect the ends of each conductive rail 32 around the breaks 43 so that power may be selectively supplied to and cut off from each set of tracks 24, 26 in the continuous loop of track segments, as will be described in greater detail below.
[003I] The tower 14 includes a front wall 40 (FIG. 1), a rear wall 41, and a rear cover 42 that connects to the rear wall (FIG. 2}. The front wall 40, rear wall 41, and rear cover 42 form a hollow interior 44 (FiG. 3). A lower end 46 of the tower 14 fits within a mounting flange 48 formed in the base member I2. The tower 14 is securely connected to the base member 12 through fasteners (e.g., screws) , but may be secured through adhesive bonding, ultrasonic welding, or other well-known fastening means.
[0032] A generally cylindrical speaker housing 50 is formed at the lower end 46 of the tower 14 and contains a speaker 52, preferably of the paper cone type. A battery power supply 51 (FIG. 5) is located in the hollow interior 44 of the tower 14 above the speaker 52 and can be accessed by removing the rear cover 42. An upper end 53 of the tower I4 includes opposing, hollow support arms 55, 57 that extend in a generally horizontal direction for pivotally supporting the display 16, as will be described in further detail below.
[0033] The two hand control units I8, 20, the control button. 21, the two sets of tracks 24, 26, the isolation areas 37, 38, and the pit stop area 39 are all operably (at least electrically) connected to a control system including a microcontroller 54 (FIG. 5j or other processor through a circuit board 56 (FIG. 4) mounted in the base member 12 and a connector card 58 (FIG. 3) mounted in the lower end 46 of the tower below the speaker housing 50. As shown, the connector card 58 plugs into the circuit board 56 through a generally vertically oriented plug module 60 mounted on the circuit board. The display 16 and the speaker 52 are also coupled to the microeontroller 54. The microcontroller 54 (FIG. 5) is preferably a 4-bit microcontroller operating at 4Mhz, and' includes 256 kb ROM with sound storage and compression features, 16 kb SRAM, a LCD driver, and various input, output, and I/O ports.
(0034] Preferably, the microcontroller 54 is located in the display 16 on a controller board 62 (FIG. 5), but may be positioned at any desired location in the center I0, such as in the tower I4 or base member 12. When positioned in the display 16, a connector cable 64 (FIG. 5) extends from the controller board 62 to the connector card 58. 'The microcontroller 54display 16, and speaker 52 are preferably powered by the battery power supply S I located in the tower 14.
Alternatively a wall transformer 75 (FIG: 4) for supplying electrical power to the tracks 24, 26 may supply power to the display; speaker, and the microcor~troller with suitable rectifier circuitry.
[0035] The display 16 includes a housing 76 that encloses a~ display panel 78.
Preferably, the display panel 78 is a LCD panel, but may alternatively be in the form of a dot-matrix panel, an LED panel, a CRT, and so on. A pair of spaced L-shaped arms 80, 82 are integrally formed with the housing 76. Each arm includes a first arm portion 84 that extends generally downwardIy and a second arm portion 86 that extends generally horizontally toward the tower to 14. The second arm portions are pivotally received in the opposing, hollow support arms 55, 57. In this manner, the position of the display 16 can be adjusted by tilting the display about the support arms to a desired viewing position. The hollow support arms and second arm portions are preferably dimensioned so that frictional contact between the support arms and second arm portions normally keeps the display in the adjusted position. A
visor 88 is formed 15 on the housing 76 for shading the display panel 78 against direct light.
[0036] Each hand control unit 18, 20 includes a generally inverted L-shape housing 90 with a handle portion 92 that can be grasped and held by a user and a head portion 94 that extends generally transverse to the handle portion. One manually operable control mechanism of each unit I 8, 20 includes a trigger 96 extending out of the housing at an intersection of the handle 2o portion 92 and the head portion 94. The trigger 96 is manually operable to move a wiper arm (not shown} against a resistance strip of a variable resistor 108 (FIG. 4) when depressed to thereby vary the voltage across the variable resistor 108 and control the velocity of a vehicle on its associated track: Another manually operable control mechanism includes a control button _7_ 98, which is located at a rear end 100 of each head portion 94. Each control button 98 constitutes the button portion of a push-button momentary contact switch, which is connected to a separate port of the microcontroller 54. Button 98 is manually operable to supply a logical high signal to the microcontroller 54 when depressed. The control button 98 is used to selected desired game options through a set of visual displays on the display panel 78 and to perform certain simulated required maintenance activities (i.e., pit stop functions) on the vehicles during the race as will be explained. The hand control units 18, 20 are preferably hard-wired to the circuit board 56 (FIG. 4), but may alternatively communicate with the microcontroller 54 through infrared, radio wave, or other well-known wireless communication means.
l0 [0037) Turning now to FIGS. 4 and 5, electronic circuitry for the information and control center 10 including the control system is illustrated. As shown in FIG. 4, conductive rails 30 of the track 24 (designated as "LANE #1 ") and the track 26 (designated as "LANE
#2") are connected to one side of a transformer power supply 134, while the conductive rails 32 of the tracks 24 and 26 are connected to the other side of the supply l 34 through one side of the 15 trigger-actuated variable resistors 108 of the hand control units 18 and 20, respectively. A
comparator circuit 110, 112 is connected to each of the variable resistors 108 of the hand control units 18 and 20, respectively, for detera~ning if the trigger 96 in one or both units 18, 20 is being actuated. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, it is determined that the trigger 96 is actuated when a voltage across the variable resistor 108 in the hand control 2o unit 18, 20 is greater than 0.2 Volts. The comparator circuit then sends a logic "1" to the appropriate port of the mierocontroller 54 (FIG. 4) through a delay circuit 114 or 116. When the voltage across the hand control unit is less than or equal to 0.2 Volts, the comparator circuit sends a logic "0" to the appropriate port, indicating that the trigger is not being pulled.
_g_ [0038] A comparator circuit 118; I20 is also connected to each of the variable resistors I O& of the hand control units 18 and 20, respectively, for determining if a vehicle is present on one or both tracks 24, 26. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, it is determined that the vehicle is properly positioned on the track when a voltage measured across the tracks, and thus across the vehicle, is greater than 0.2 Volts. Each comparator circuit 118, 120 then sends a logic "1" to the appropriate port of the microcontroller 54 (FIG. 4~.
When the voltage across the track, and thus the vehicle, is less than or equal to 0.2 Volts, the comparator circuit sends a logic "0" to the appropriate port, indicating that the vehicle is not properly seated on the track.
to [0039] Each delay circuit 114, 1 I6 is used to keep the voltage high for a predetermined time period so that, once the microcontroller 54 determines that a vehicle is not properly seated on the track, the microcontroller 54 also has time to determine if the associated trigger 96 is being pressed. Preferably, the predetermined time period is approximately 0.3 second longer than the track compare time. If it has been determined that the vehicle is improperly seated and that the 15 trigger 96 is pressed; the microcontroller 54 will conclude that the vehicle has left the track and crashed. The microcontroller 54 can then access an appropriate sound file in memory and send it to the speaker output to thereby audibly indicate that a crash has occurred. An appropriate animation file can also be accessed and sent to the display panel 78, to thereby visually indicate that a crash has occurred.
20 [0040) A circuit 122 receives AC power from the transformer power supply I34 and rectifies it through a resistor, Zener diode, and capacitor arrangement. The rectified power is used to drive the comparator circuits I 10, 112, 118, and 120. Although not shown, the rectif ed power may also be used to drive the microcontroller 134 and other related components and circuitry, in place of the battery power supply 51 as previously described.
[0041) The positive side of the wall transformer 134 is connected to the conductive rails 30 of the tracks 24 and 26, as well as the variable resistors 108 of the hand control units 18 and 20, respectively. The conductive rails 30 are also connected to a DPDT switch 124 so that a user can select between-playing with or without the functions associate with the information and control center 10.
[0042) A first solid state switch 130 is operated by the microcontroller 54 for supplying power to or cutting power from the track 24. Likewise, a second solid state switch 132 is operated by 1o the microcontroller 54 for supplying power to or cutting power from the track 26, in response to logical signals from the tracks 24, 26 and hand control units 18, 20.
[0043) The isolated conductive rail segments 45 of the isolated areas 37 and 38 for both tracks 24 and 26 are also connected to the microcontroller 54 through signal conditioning circuitry I26 as shown. Preferably, each rail segment 45 is associated with a separate port of the 15 microcontroller 54. A logical "1" is sent to the appropriate port of the microcontroller 54 when a car with its contacts passes over one of the isolated rail segments 45 to thereby connect the conductive rail 30 with the isolated rail 45 of each track 24, 26. The logical "1" represents that the vehicle has passed a particular isolation area. If, for example, the track 26 of the isolation area 37 registers a logical "1 ", it is determined that the vehicle has passed over the isolation 2o area 37 of the track 26. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the isolation areas 37 and 38 are each approximately one inch in length. l.Tnder normal operating conditions, the momentum of the vehicle will carry it over the isolation area and back onto the conductive rail 32. Preferably, the isolation area 37 is used to determine the number of laps that each vehicle has traveled, and also signals entrance ofthe vehicle into the pit stop area 39. The isolation area 38 signals departure of the vehicle from the pit stop.
[0044] In order to determine if the vehicle has stopped in the pit stop area 39, a timer is started when the vehicle passes the isolation area 37. If the vehicle fails to pass the isolation area 38 within a predetermined time period, it is determined that the vehicle is located in the pit stop area. Power is then cut from the track that the vehicle is on, until the appropriate pit stop functions are completed.
[0045] The microcQntroller 54 is programmed to keep track of the number of laps completed, the amount of time taken to complete the laps, the amount of"fuel" that has been used by each 1o vehicle, and the "tire wear" by each vehicle. The amount of fuel used and the tire wear are preferably based on a predetermined number of laps. In addition, power to the tracks is cut off until a vehicle is sensed to be on each track to thereby prevent starting a race. Alternatively, a race may start when it is determined that at least one vehicle is properly located on the track.
[0046] Players must stop their vehicles in the pit stop area 39 between the isolation areas to 15 "refueP' and "change tires" when the visual display indicates they are low on fuel or rubber.
The microcontroller 54 cuts off power to a player's track if the player does not pit before running out of fuel or rubber. Players simulate refuel and re-tire pit stop functions by repeatedly manipulating (e.g. pressing) the control button 98 on their hand control units while their vehicle is in the pit stop area 39. The visual displays are updated by the microcontroller 20 54 to indicate fuel intake and tire changes. The vehicles must be fully refueled or re-tired before the microcontroller 54 will provide power for them to leave the pit stop area 39. During the last lap before a required pit stop, power to the track can be pulsed at a 50% duty cycle to simulate a vehicle running out of fuel or a vehicle with bad tires:
Preferably, the pulsed power to the track is on for one second and off for one second so that "car trouble"
can be clearly noticed by a player.
[0047] Appropriate sound effects for both players are generated by the microcontroller 54.
These include countdown beeps that go with a countdown display to begin a race; various engine sounds including motor idle during countdown and pit periods, peel-out when leaving the pit stop area after fueling or re-tiring, high speed sound while racing, crowd cheering at the end of a race, crash sounds, Doppler effect sounds as the vehicles pass through the pit stop area, and so on. A number of visual effects are generated on the display panel 78 including front and side animated views of the vehicles, a starting flag, a finishing flag, vehicle refueling, vehicle being re-tired, vehicle crashing, and so on, as will be described in greater detail below. 1f desired, separate microcontrollers or other processing means, display panels and speakers can be provided for each player.
[0048] With reference now to FIG. 6, the display panel 78, preferably in the form of a LCD
panel, is electronically divided into two identical sections 150 and i 52.
Each section 150, 152 is associated with a different vehicle and thus a different user: Since each section is identical, only the section 152 will be described. The section I52 includes several individual displays including a dot matrix display 154, preferably in the form of a 30 x 30 dot matrix display.
[0049] Two digit registers constitute a Iap counter visual display i 56 used to display the total number of laps during a race, and should begin at '00' and sequence through '01'...'02'...'03' etc. When the player has reached his last lap, both registers of the counter 156 preferably flash on and off at a 70% duty-cycle to signal the last lap. For a 100-lap race, the '00' is preferably displayed in the absence of the ' 1' in 100 to reduce cost and conserve image space.
[0050] A lap indicator segment visual display 158 in the form of an elliptical arrow, preferably flashes at a 70% duty-cycle to signal that a race is in progress. The lap indicator segment 158 preferably begins flashing when the race begins and then stays illuminated after the race ends.
[0051] Four registers constitute a timer visual display 160 used to display the amount of time taken to finish a race. During the 'best race' visual display sequence, the timer 160 is preferably linked with the dot matrix display 154 and cycles through the top three race times for a preselected number of laps. If a new high score is achieved, the timer 160 will preferably flash with the lap indicator segment 158 at a 50% duty-cycle.
[0052] A first place visual display icon 162 is used to show first place position in the race.
1o This segment 162 is preferably illuminated when the player is leading the race. At the finish of a race, this segment preferably flashes at a 50% duty-cycle.
(0053] A second place visual display icon 164 is used to show second place position in the race. This icon 164 is preferably illuminated when the player is in second place position during the race. At the finish of the race, this icon 164 also preferably flashes at a 50% duty-cycle.
[0054] A finish flag, visual display icon 166 is used to signal the finish of a race: The finish flag icon 166 is preferably linked to the first and second place icons and also flashes at a 50% duty cycle at the end of the race on the side of the winner.
[0055] A gas icon visual display 168 in the form of a rotated gas can includes a plurality of segments 169 (e.g. four) that show the amount of fuel remaining in fuel tanl~.
As the vehicle 2o travels through several laps, the microcontroller calculates how much fuel is used. One by one, the fuel segments turn off, beginning at the top segment. During a pit stop for'refueling, these segments turn back on, preferably one at a time, as the animated fuel enters the vehicle.
Approximately half way through the predetermined duration of the last fuel segment, the last _13_ fuel segment preferably begins flashing at a 50% duty-cycle, and after three seconds triggers the pit animation on the display 154. An audio warning that a pit stop is needed can also be played through the speaker 52. If the player does not make the necessary pit stop, power to the player's track will be turned off to force the pit stop. Preferably, the power is .turned off ax an s appropriate moment so that when the vehicle comes to rest, it will be in the pit stop area 39.
Alternatively, the vehicle can be powered at a very Iow duty cycle (e.g. S% or 10%) o limp around the track to the pit area.
[0056] A gas can visual display icon 170 is preferably always illuminated and encompasses the fuel segments 169.
[0057] A tire visual display icon indicated generally at 172 has four tire segments 174 in the form of four individual tire representations that represent the tread on the tires of the vehicles.
The tire segments 174 are preferably illuminated at the beginning of a race and turn off one at a time in a predetermined order. For example, the tire segments 174 may turn off in the following order: 1 ) top left, 2) top right; 3) bottom left, and 4) bottom right. Approximately 1s half way through the specified wear of the last tire, the Iast tire segment preferably begins to flash and after three seconds the pit animation is triggered. An audio warning can also be played through the speaker 52.
[0058] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first, second and third fuel segments 169 will have a duration of five laps, while the foLUth fuel segment will have duration 2o between 3 to 5 laps. The duration of the fourth fuel segment is preferably determined randomly by the microcontroller. Half way through the determined duration of the fourth (last) fuel segment, it preferably begins to flash at a s0% duty-cycle.
[0059] As shown in TABLE 1 below, and by way of example, when a 10-lap race is chosen by a player, no fuel pit stop will be required. However, when a 25-lap race is selected, a pit stop for refueling must be taken between 18 and 20 laps. Likewise, when a 75-lap race is chosen, two pit stops must be taken, one between 18 and 20 laps, and the other between 36 and 40 Laps.
As shown, a greater number of specified laps for a race will require a greater number of pit stops for refueling:
[0060]
Necessary Fuel Laps 18-20 Laps 36-40 Laps 72-75 Laps 90-100 Pit Lap Race N1A N/A N/A NIA
25 Lap Race _ X _ N/A NiA N/A
_ 50 Lap Race X X N/A NIA
?5 Lap Race X X X N/A
100 Lap Race X X X X
I I
[0061] As shown in 'TABLE 2 below; and by way of example, when a i 0-lap or 25-lap race is chosen by a player, no tire pit stop will Ix required. However, when a 50-lap or 75-lap race is l0 selected, a pit stop for "changing" the tires must be taken at the 44.x' lap. Likewise, when a 100-lap race is chosen, two tire changing pit stops must be taken, one at the 44~' lap and the other at the 88~' lap. The tire changing pit stops are in addition to the fueling pit stops.
[0062]
Necessary Tire Pit . Lap # 44 Lap # 88 Lap Race N/A N/A
25 Lap Race NIA N/A
SO Lap Race X N/A
75 Lap Race X N/A
I00 Lap Race X X
[0063] In operation; and with reference now to FIGS. 7A to 7C; the button 21 is depressed at the beginning of a race to provide power to the information and control center 10. Any time during the race, or after the race is over, the button 21 can be pressed and held to start another 5 race. At the beginning of a new game, or after a game has been reset by depressing the button 21, a start-up animation will be. displayed in the dot-matrix areas of the display panel 78. As shown, a finishing flag waving sequence preferably loops through three animation frames (FIG.
7A, FIG. 7B, and FIG. 7C) about five times, although more or less flag loops can occur. A
sound file representative of crowd noise can be played through the speaker during the flag 10 loops.
[0064] Next, and with reference now to FIGS. 8A to 8E, a lap select sequence is displayed.
The player can depress the button 21 to specify the desired number of laps for a race, such as 10, 25, 50, 75, or i 00 Iaps. One press of the button 21 sequences the display to a higher lap number. As shown in FIG. 8B; the 10- and 25-lap image is shown in the dot-matrix display 154 with a selection bar highlighting the L0-lap image. Preferably, the selection bar flashes at a 50% duty cycle until a selection is made. The player can then depress the control button 98 on one of the hand control units 18, 20 to .select the 10-lap game. If a game with more than I O laps is desired, the button 2i can be depressed again, without depressing the control button 98, to highlight the 25-lap image {FIG. 8C). When the button 21 is depressed again, the 25- and 50-lap image is shown with the 25-lap image highlighted (FIG. 8D). When the button 21 is depressed again, the 50-Iap image will be highlighted (FIG. 8E). Preferably, the lap selection display scrolls sequentially from 10/25 laps to 25/50 laps to 50/75 laps to 75/100 laps to 100//0 laps and back to 10/25 laps in a continuous loop, as long as the button 21 is repeatedly depressed. In an alternative arrangement; the lap selection display can scroll sequentially from 10125 to 50/75 to 100/10 and back to 10/25 in order to speed the selection of a desired lap number. _ [0465] Preferably, each time the button 21 is depressed, a distinctive sound such as an engine 1o revving sound is played through the speaker. Once a player chooses a particular lap number by pressing the control button 98, another distinctive sound such as, a "peel-out" sound is preferably played through the speaker.
(4466] Referring now to FIGS. 9A to 9F, a series of sequential count-down frames is illustrated. Once a desired number of Iaps are selected, a one-second pause is initiated during 15 which the dot-matrix display 154 turns black (FIG. 9A). During this time;
the microcontroller determines whether any vehicles are properly located on the track; e.g:
whether the electrical tabs on a bottom of a vehicle are in electrical contact with the rails 30 and 32. If it is determined that no vehicles are present, the display 154 remains black. Once it is determined that a vehicle is properly positioned on the track, the countdown preferably begins three 2o seconds after the vehicle is connected. As shown in FIG. 9B, the count begins: at "5" and preferably lasts one second. A beep sound can be played for each countdown frame as shown in FIGS. 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E, and 9F. An engine idle sound also preferably plays along with the _17_ beeps. Once the countdown is completed, the dot matrix display 154 preferably blanks out for approximately 0.5 second, as shown; in FIG. 9A.
[0067] With reference now to FIGS. 10A to l OC, three sequential frames of a starting flag waving sequence are illustrated. In FIG. 10A, a first frame of a starting flag sequence is displayed with a flag in the right position in each dot matrix display 154. At the same time, a timer begins counting, as shown by the timer 160. A "peel-out" sound can be played in conjunction with display of the first starting flag frame. In FIG. l OB, a second starting flag frame is displayed with the flag in a center position, and the timer 160 is updated. At this point, the lap indicator icon 156 preferably beginsflashing at a SO% duty cycle. In FIG. IOC, a third 1 o starting flag frame is displayed with the flag in a left position, and the timer 160 is again updated. Preferably, the starting flag.rapidly sequences through the thxee frames for a total of three cycles. Of course, it is to be understood that more or less frames can be provided, and that the frames can sequence over more or less than three cycles. The display at this point also shows that the first place icon i 62 is illuminated in the display section 1 S0, while the second 15 place icon 164 is illuminated in the display section 1 S2, indicating that the vehicle associated with the display section 150 is ahead of the vehicle associated with the display section 1 S2.
[0068] With reference now to FIGS. 11A to 11C, three sequential frames of a default side view of a traveling vehicle in the dot matrix displays 154 is illustrated. As shown in FIG. 1 1A, the first frame shows a vertical bar 180 and a spoke wheel 182 at a first position. In FIG. 11B, the 2o vertical bar 180 and spoke wheel 182 are at a second position. Finally, in FIG. 11 C, the vertical bar 180 and spoke wheel 182 are at a third position. The change in position of the vertical bar and spoke wheel in this manner gives the appearance that the vehicle in each display 1 S4 is moving. Preferably; the temp of the animation is relative to the position of the trigger 96 (FIG. 2) of each of the hand control units 18 and 20. Thus, the frames associated with one vehicle may be sequenced at a greater rate than the frames of another vehicle when the one vehicle is traveling faster than the other vehicle. When the frames are displayed, a sound file is also played and looped with the frames. In addition, the timer 160 and lap counter 156 are continuously updated for each vehicle until the players) pass the finish line.
.(0069] With reference now to FIGS. i2A to i2C, three sequential frames of an inside view of a vehicle from a driver's perspective looking forward in the car for the dot matrix displays 154 are illustrated. During the course of the race, the microcontroller will specify, in a random manner, that these frames be substituted for the default side view frames of FIGS. 11A to 11C.
to Preferably, the frames Ioop rapidly between the FIG. 12A, FIG. 12B and FIG.
12C frames to simulate movement of a drieer's hands on a steering wheel (FIG 12A straight, 12B left tum, I2C right turn). This sequence is also preferably used in conjunction with the default pit view sequence as a lead-in animafiion.
(0070] With reference now to FIGS. I3A to 13C, three sequential frames of an inside view from a driver's perspective looking forward in the car of a vehicle approaching the pit stop area are illustrated. This sequence is shared with the fuel pit and tire pit animations, as will be described in greater detail below. This sequence is preferably used in conjunction with the default inside view (FIGS. 12A-12C) and the appropriate pit animation. During this animation, an audio warning of low fuel or worn tires can be played.
[0071] With reference now to FIGS. 14A to 14N, fourteen sequential frames of a fuel pit animation for the dot matrix display 154 are illustrated. When the vehicle is halfway through its last fuel segment 169 (FIG. 6), a pit stop will be necessary. The player's power to the track is preferably cut off while the vehicle is in the pit stop area 39. The player will be playing the part of the pit-crew by manipulation of the control button 98 (FIG. 2) on the hand control uziit I 8 or 20 to advance the re-fueling animation, e.g. bringing the fuel can icon 168' on screen (FIGS.
14A through 14F). As soon as the player presses the control button 98 five times, the animated tank 168' will drain one segment 169' (FIG. 14G) while the segmented fuel tank 168 (FIG. 6) increases by one segment 169. For a total of four segments, as shown in FIG.
6, the player must press the control button a total of twenty times before the animated fuel can i 68' is empty and all the fuel segments 169 are full (FIGS. 14G through 14L). Of course, it is to be understood that more or less fuel segments can be provided, as well as the number of times the control button 98 must be pressed to "fill" a segment. The animated fuel can 168' is then 1o removed,(FIGS. I4M and 14N). During the pit stop, the timer 160 continues to count.
Although the lap indicator will not change during the pit stop, it will continue to flash. The engine idle sound can be played during the pit stop, and the peel-out sound can be played when the vehicle takes off again. Preferably, the power to the player's track will remain off until the control button 98 has been depressed the required number of times.
15 [0072] With reference now to FIGS. Z SA to 15D, four sequential frames of a fire pit animation for the dot matrix display 154 are illustrated. The animated tire change icon 172' is represented by the front half of a vehicle and one tire. When the vehicle is halfway through its last tire segment 174 (FIG. 6), a pit stop will be necessary on the next lap. The player's power to the track is preferably cut off while the vehicle is in the pit stop area 39. In FIG. I SA, the vehicle 2o is shown in a lowered position I72', indicating that alI of the tires are worn and require replacement. In FIG. 15B, the vehicle is shown in a raised position. In FIG.
15C, the vehicle is shown in a raised position with the wheel removed. In FIG. 1 SD, the vehicle is shown in a normal operating position. In order to change each wheel, the player must press the control button 98 five times. A tire 174' changes from a flattened condition (FIG. 1 SA) to a missing condition (FIG. ISC) to a first new tire condition (FIG. 15D) on the dot matrix display 154 while a new tire 174 appears on the segmented tire area 172. Preferably, the animation is suspended at the FIG. 1 SC frame while the additional tires are being installed but may be s cycled between FIGS. 1 SA and 15C for each tire change. The player is able to tell how may tires have been changed by watching the tire segments 174 illuminate one-by-one in the tire area 172. When the tire changes are complete, the above animation sequence preferably reverses order. During the tire pit stop, the timer 160 continues to count.
Although the lap indicator will not change during the tire pit stop, it will continue to flash.
The engine idle 1o sound can be played during the pit stop; and the peel-out sound can be played when the vehicle takes off again. Preferably, the power to the player's track will remain off until the control button 98 has been depressed the required number of times to change all four tires.
[0073] With reference now to FIGS: l 6A to 16L and FIGS. 17A and 17B, sequential frames of a crash animation for the dot matrix display 154 are illustrated. If at any time the processor 15 determines that a crash has occurred (by sensing that a vehicle has left contact with the track with the trigger 96 depressed; as previously described), the frames 16A
through 16L showing the driver's face and the inside of the vehicle are preferably displayed in sequence. The frames showing the side view of a crash (FIGS. 17A and I7B) are also displayed in sequence. A
crashing sound can be played during the initial sequence (FIGS: 16A to 16L) and an engine idle 2o sound can be played during the side view crash sequence (FIGS. 17A and 17B). Once the car is put back on the track, the animation preferably switches to the default side view frames {FIGS.
11 A to 11 C). During the crash, the timer 160 continues to count and the lap indicator continues to flash, although it will not increase in value.
[0074] With reference now to FIGS. 18A to I 8D, sequential frames of a waving finish 'flag for the dot matrix display I 54 are illustrated. Once the player has completed his final Iap by crossing the finish Iine (isolated area 37 in FIG. 1 ), the finish flag animation will begin across the winner's display 154. Power will still be supplied to both tracks, but each timer 160 will stop when its associated vehicle crosses the finish line. Preferably, the frames I8B to 18D are sequentially cycled for three times. The final position 162 or 164 of the vehicle can also flash on its associated display 154 along with the checkered flag icon 166. The crowd sound can also he played simultaneously.
[0075] As shown in FIGS. I9A and 19B, two frames of a crowd animation are illustrated.
to After the finish flag animation stops, the crowd loop animation can begin.
The iwo frames illustrated in FIGS. I9A and 19B preferably loop for about ~-6 seconds. The crowd sound can continue to play with the crowd animation.
[0076] After the crowd sequence stops; the canned 'top 3 times' animation will begin, as shown in FIGS. 20A to 20D for the dot matrix displays 154. The top three times in the selected race is 15 stored in the memory of the microcontroiler and displayed for about two seconds: The animation preferably begins with an engine sewing sound and then finishes with the crowd sound. After the animation, the game loops back to the lap selection sequence (FIGS. 8A to 8E). If both vehicles for the current race did not place in the; top three times, the canned 'top 3 times' can be skipped and the game can loop back to the lap selection sequence.
20 [0077] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. By way of example, although the above-described functions are preferably accomplished through use of a processor, such as a microprocessor, it will be understood that other processing means can be used, such as a programmable logic device, digital circuitry, analog circuitry, or combinations thereof. It will be understood, therefore, that this invention is not Limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.
Claims (24)
1. In a system including an electrically powered toy vehicle and a continuous loop track for racing the electrically powered toy vehicle under operator control, the continuous track having at least one lane (24, 26), an electrical path (30, 32) extending along the lane for providing electrical power to the vehicle about the track, and a pit stop segment (39) along the at least one lane, the pit stop segment being electrically separated from a remainder of the electrical path, characterized by:
a control unit (18, 20) operably connected with the electrical path to control vehicle propulsion and further including a control mechanism (97) to electronically control performance of at least one simulated pit stop function on an electrically powered toy vehicle while in the pit stop segment; and an electrically operated display unit (16) operably connected with the control unit and configured to generate a visual display of a progression of the at least one simulated pit stop function in response to manipulation of the control mechanism.
a control unit (18, 20) operably connected with the electrical path to control vehicle propulsion and further including a control mechanism (97) to electronically control performance of at least one simulated pit stop function on an electrically powered toy vehicle while in the pit stop segment; and an electrically operated display unit (16) operably connected with the control unit and configured to generate a visual display of a progression of the at least one simulated pit stop function in response to manipulation of the control mechanism.
2. A system according to claim 1 wherein the simulated pit stop function comprises at least one of a simulated fuel tank refill and a simulated tire change, and the visual display comprises at least one of a fuel tank icon (168, 168') and a tire change icon (172, 172') that changes at least in response to manipulation of the control mechanism.
3. A system according to claim 2 wherein the at least one icon comprises a plurality of segments (169, 169', 174, 174') that sequentially change from a first display condition to at least a second display condition in response to manipulation of the control mechanism to thereby indicate a progression of the simulated pit stop function.
4. A system according to claim 3 wherein the control mechanism includes a push-button (98) and wherein each segment changes in response to a predetermined number of manipulations of the push-button.
5. A system according to claim 4 further comprising processing means (54) operably coupled between the control unit and the display unit for sequentially changing the plurality of segments in response to manipulations of the control mechanism.
6. A system according to claim 5 further comprising at least one of a pit entry switch (37) and a pit exit switch (38) located at least proximally the pit stop segment, the at least one switch (37 or 38) being operably connected to the processing means for determination of completion of a lap around the track by the toy vehicle.
7. A system according to claim 6 wherein the processing means determines, from the at least one pit entry and exit switches, a number of laps completed by the toy vehicle and, based on the number of laps, sequentially changes at least one of the plurality of segments (169, 169', 174, 174') from the second display condition to the first display condition to thereby indicate at least one of depleting fuel and tire wear.
8. A system according to claim 5 comprising both a pit entry switch (37) and a pit exit switch (38) spaced from the pit entry switch connected to the processing means.
9. A system according to claim 8 wherein the processing means determines that the toy vehicle is stopped in the pit stop segment when the pit exit switch fails to activate within a predetermined time period after activation of the pit entry switch.
10. A system according to claim 1 further comprising processing means (54) operably coupling the control unit with the display unit and changing the visual display of the display unit at least upon manipulation of the control mechanism (97).
11. A system according to claim 10 wherein the visual display comprises at least one pit stop icon (168, 168' 172, 172') with a plurality of segments (169, 169', 174, 174') that sequentially change from a first display condition to at least a second display condition in response to manipulation of the control mechanism to thereby indicate a progression of the pit stop function.
12. A system according to claim 11 further comprising at least one of a pit entry switch (37) and a pit exit switch (38) connected to the processing means for determination of completion of a lap of the track by the toy vehicle.
13. A system according to claim 12 wherein the processing means determines, from the at least one pit entry and exit switches, a number of laps completed by the toy vehicle and, based on the number of laps, sequentially changes at least one of the plurality of segments (169, 174)from the second display condition to the first display condition to thereby indicate at least one of depleting fuel and tire wear.
14. A system according to claim 13 further comprising a remaining one of the pit entry switch and the pit exit switch, the pit exit switch being spaced from the pit entry switch, and wherein the processing means further determines that the toy vehicle is stopped in the pit stop segment when the pit exit switch fails to activate within a predetermined time period after activation of the pit entry switch.
15. A system according to claim 11 wherein the control mechanism is a push-button switch (97), and further wherein the processing means sequentially changes the plurality of segments (169, 169', 174, 174')in response to plural manipulations of a push-button (98) of the switch (97).
16. A system according to claim 15 wherein the processing means is responsive to plural manipulations of the push-button of the switch to change one of the segments.
17. A system according to claim 1 wherein the control unit (18, 20) has at least a portion (92) shaped as a hand grip.
18. A system according to claim 1 wherein the control unit (18, 20) includes another control mechanism (96, 108) manually operable to vary speed of the toy vehicle on the continuous track.
19. A system according to claim 1 further compromising processing means (62) for determining when the vehicle has left the track and updating the display in response thereto.
20. A system according to claim 1 wherein the display includes an area (154) that contain a changing graphic image.
21. A system according to claim 20 wherein the area (154) of the display includes a changing graphic image of a car crashing.
22. A system according to claim 20 wherein the area (154) of the display includes a changing graphic image of a car having a pit stop function being performed.
23. A system according to claim 20 wherein the area (154) of the display includes a changing graphic image of a driver's view of the race looking forward from inside the car.
24. A system according to claim 20 wherein the area (154) of the display includes a changing graphic image of a race flag being waved.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US26721701P | 2001-02-07 | 2001-02-07 | |
| US60/267,217 | 2001-02-07 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2369187A1 true CA2369187A1 (en) | 2002-08-07 |
Family
ID=23017819
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002369187A Abandoned CA2369187A1 (en) | 2001-02-07 | 2002-01-23 | Electrically controlled racing game with information and control center |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP1230958A3 (en) |
| CN (1) | CN1370614A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2369187A1 (en) |
| HK (1) | HK1048779A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JP4422746B2 (en) * | 2007-07-25 | 2010-02-24 | 株式会社タカラトミー | Roadbed |
| US9504912B2 (en) * | 2011-08-30 | 2016-11-29 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Ergonomic game controller |
| CN104102221A (en) * | 2014-07-23 | 2014-10-15 | 赵红领 | Intelligent track racing car toy and control method thereof |
| CN104606890B (en) * | 2014-12-26 | 2017-11-24 | 湖南华凯文化创意股份有限公司 | Control method, system and the game machine of the control device of game machine |
| CN105869478B (en) * | 2015-02-06 | 2019-12-06 | 福特全球技术公司 | determining driver rankings |
Family Cites Families (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3970309A (en) * | 1975-03-07 | 1976-07-20 | Tomy Kogyo Co., Inc. | Racing game |
| US4247107A (en) | 1979-01-19 | 1981-01-27 | California R & D Center | Electronically controlled roadrace system with sound generator |
| US4330127A (en) * | 1981-03-02 | 1982-05-18 | Brand Derek A | Toy racing car game accessory |
| US5637996A (en) * | 1993-02-05 | 1997-06-10 | Link Group International | Toy system with movable vehicles |
-
2002
- 2002-01-23 CA CA002369187A patent/CA2369187A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2002-01-24 EP EP02001643A patent/EP1230958A3/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2002-02-07 CN CN02103547A patent/CN1370614A/en active Pending
-
2003
- 2003-02-11 HK HK03100986.3A patent/HK1048779A1/en unknown
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| EP1230958A3 (en) | 2004-01-02 |
| HK1048779A1 (en) | 2003-04-17 |
| CN1370614A (en) | 2002-09-25 |
| EP1230958A2 (en) | 2002-08-14 |
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