Simulated Vehicle Patents (Class 273/442)
  • Patent number: 11194346
    Abstract: An angular speed acquisition device acquires the angular speed about a road surface perpendicular axis of a leaning vehicle. The leaning vehicle includes a vehicle body frame capable of leaning in a vehicle left-right direction and a steering shaft which steers at least one of a front wheel unit and a rear wheel unit. An angular speed acquisition device, which is mountable on the leaning vehicle, includes a memory and a processor. The memory stores the relationship between the steering angle, which is a rotation angle about the rotational axis of the steering shaft, the vehicle speed of the leaning vehicle, and the angular speed ? about the road surface perpendicular axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Kenji Katsuki
  • Patent number: 10950136
    Abstract: An ATV educational demonstration system includes an ATV and an animatronic rider coupled to the ATV. In an illustrative embodiment, the system also includes a control system adapted to control the ATV and the animatronic rider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: Play For Kate, Inc.
    Inventors: Ashlee Bruggenschmidt, Eric Bruggenschmidt, William Browne, Danny L. East
  • Patent number: 10596476
    Abstract: A track set for toy vehicles is provided, the track set having: a first track circuit having a loop section and a figure-8 track circuit; a second track circuit having a loop section and figure-8 track circuit, wherein the figure-8 track circuits are overlaid on each other to provide multiple intersections between each figure-8 track circuit, wherein the toy vehicles travelling on the figure-8 track circuits can crash into each other as they travel along the figure-8 track circuits; and a mechanism for propelling the vehicles along the first track circuit and the second track circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Ostendorff, Michael Nuttall
  • Patent number: 10340960
    Abstract: A military communications unit that utilizes a relatively high-bandwidth digital communication networks (e.g., cellular networks) is capable of acting as a wireless communications hub for a soldier, vehicle, weapon, or other entity. The military communications unit can obtain data from multiple devices via close-range wireless technologies and communicate with training or operational networks. The military communications unit can be flexible in its capacity to relay data by formatting data in accordance with Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS), High-Level Architecture (HLA), and/or another distributed computer simulation standard. Moreover, the military communications unit may be further capable of “re-banding,” enabling communications using cellular protocols and/or standards in non-cellular frequency bands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: Cubic Corporation
    Inventors: Martyn Armstrong, Neale Smiles, Steven Taylor, Rod Tuckwell, Andrew Fox
  • Patent number: 10272944
    Abstract: Methods and systems for generating haptic feel torque for a steering system for an automotive vehicle are provided. In an exemplary embodiment, a method for generating haptic feel torque for a steering system for an automotive vehicle includes inputting a steering command signal by manipulating a steering wheel mounted to a steering column of the automotive vehicle. In response to the steering command, the method includes changing an orientation of road wheels of the automotive vehicle. Also, the method includes communicating condition data of the road wheels to a controller. Further, the method includes calculating with the controller a turning acceleration of the steering column in response to changing the orientation of the road wheels by modeling a virtual spring and a virtual damper interconnected between the steering column and the road wheels based on the condition data. The method also includes applying the turning acceleration to the steering column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Jin-Woo Lee, Bakhtiar B. Litkouhi
  • Patent number: 10195537
    Abstract: A system and method is provided for a toy race track. Preferred embodiments of the present invention operate in conjunction with a vehicle affixed to a track, wherein the track is supported in relation to at least one fixed surface via a plurality of support structures. In one embodiment, the track comprises a plurality of flexible sections, allowing a user to construct a track resembling a rollercoaster, having steep curves, upside-down portions, etc. In one embodiment, the vehicle includes a plurality rollers that can be used to both affix the vehicle to the track and propel the vehicle along the track. By affixing the vehicle to the track, the vehicle is prevented from leaving the track during extreme situations (e.g., steep curves, upside-down portions, etc.).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Streamline Design, LLC
    Inventors: David Yakos, Joel Switzer
  • Patent number: 10009046
    Abstract: A military communications unit that utilizes a relatively high-bandwidth digital communication networks (e.g., cellular networks) is capable of acting as a wireless communications hub for a soldier, vehicle, weapon, or other entity. The military communications unit can obtain data from multiple devices via close-range wireless technologies and communicate with training or operational networks. The military communications unit can be flexible in its capacity to relay data by formatting data in accordance with Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS), High-Level Architecture (HLA), and/or another distributed computer simulation standard. Moreover, the military communications unit may be further capable of “re-banding,” enabling communications using cellular protocols and/or standards in non-cellular frequency bands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: Cubic Corporation
    Inventors: Martyn Armstrong, Neale Smiles, Steven Taylor, Rod Tuckwell, Andrew Fox
  • Patent number: 9998975
    Abstract: Described are systems and methods for considering a user equipment (UE) location and Evolved Node B (eNodeBs) locations as a factor in determining whether a handoff of a wireless connection between the UE and a first eNodeB to a second eNodeB should be initiated. Alternatively, the systems and methods include selection of an eNodeB with which a wireless connection is to be established. In addition to considering a signal strength for an eNodeB and determining whether to established a wireless communication or initiate a handoff based on the signal strength, the UE location and eNodeB locations may likewise considered. Likewise, a navigation path or anticipated trajectory of the UE may also be considered when selecting an eNodeB with which a wireless communication is to be established or to which a handoff of an existing wireless communication is to be initiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Buchmueller, Fabian Hensel, Gur Kimchi
  • Patent number: 9884250
    Abstract: The invention has for object a game controller having an actuator (2, 102) mobile in rotation in relation to a fixed part (3, 103), in such a way as to simulate a control of the rotation of a steering column of a simulated vehicle. According to the invention, the game controller implements means for detecting the displacement in rotation of the actuator (2, 102) comprising at least one Hall effect or magnetoresistive effect detecting unit, constituted of at least two elements, of which a permanent magnet and a magnetic sensor (24, 124). At least during the rotation of the actuator (2, 102), a first element is integral in rotation with the actuator (2, 102) and a second element is integral in rotation with said fixed part (3, 103).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: Guillemot Corporation S.A.
    Inventor: Jean-Yves Jaouen
  • Patent number: 9858832
    Abstract: Methods, computer-readable media, software, and apparatuses provide an interactive application, such as a video game, that presents gaming and driving challenges to facilitate improvement of driving skills and development of safe driving behavior. Drive data may be collected while a user is driving a vehicle and the drive data may be used to define a graphically simulated virtual world. A drive score may also be calculated based on the drive data. Portions of the graphically simulated virtual world may be unlocked based on the drive score. Also, attributes of a character within the graphically simulated virtual world may be modified based on the drive score.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Allstate Insurance Company
    Inventors: Chienlan Hsu-Hoffman, Gibbs Evan, Alicia Dornadic, Andrew L. Carbery
  • Patent number: 9802135
    Abstract: A slot car drag racing reaction start timer assembly that can be mounted on a variety of different slot car tracks. The reaction start timer tower provides for a full drag racing staging and starting light Christmas tree assembly which is electronically linked to car activated optical emitter and sensor combinations from an overhead start gate and timer bridge and the individual driver's car controllers in an electronic integrated timing and reaction circuit. The start tower assembly provides for electronic on-line linking to a use access website to afford multiple racer participation in competition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Inventor: Wes Caudill
  • Patent number: 9428056
    Abstract: Systems, methods and computer-storage media are provided for displaying a real-time image in a cockpit of an aircraft. Use of a synthetic vision application is provided with a gradient-type feature such that a level of synthetic enhancements applied to an image may be adjusted to a synthetic vision application value that is less than 100 percent. The synthetic vision enhancement may be overlaid with the original image, according to the synthetic vision application value, to generate a modified image. Additional information may overlay the original image with the synthetic vision application such as a three-dimensional weather representation. The synthetic vision application may be used in conjunction with a high-definition camera to generate the original image. The modified image may be updated in real-time such that an updated view is continuously modified with an updated synthetic vision enhancement to provide accurate real-time views.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Assignee: Textron Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremy Joseph Kneuper, Jason Michael Decker, Isaac Wayne Stanfield
  • Patent number: 7953521
    Abstract: A learning controller overcomes tuning problems in vehicle simulation programs by estimating requisite vehicle-specific parameters, effectively learning from its mistakes, as the vehicle is automatically driven around a track. After a sufficient period of calibration, the learned parameters are automatically saved to a car-specific file. The file parameters may be loaded in the controller in the future to optimally control a vehicle without the need to re-run the learning procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Tipping, Mark Andrew Hatton, Barry L. Brumitt
  • Publication number: 20090282941
    Abstract: A driving simulation device for simulating a driving game includes a mounting frame, a coupler shaft journaled to the mounting frame, extending along a coupling axis and cooperating with a horizontal direction to define an inclined acute angle, a seat body fixed on the coupler shaft above the mounting frame and having an extending direction, a seating portion and a driving portion disposed on the seat body along the extending direction. The extending direction of the seat body cooperates with the coupling axis to define a deviating acute angle therebetween. A swinging action of a rider on the seat body relative to the mounting frame results in turning of the seat body about the coupling axis, which, in turn, causes swinging action of the driving portion and the seating portion such that a swinging range of the driving portion is smaller than that of the seating portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Applicant: IGS INTERNATIONAL GAMES SYSTEM CO., LTD.
    Inventors: LI-HSIEN CHANG, CHI-SHIAN WANG
  • Patent number: 7316618
    Abstract: A controller of a portable game machine comprises a steering wheel having a body and a rotary unit; a base for locating a portable game machine; a supporting frame for supporting the seat to the steering wheel; and a steering wheel seat for supporting the rotary unit of the steering wheel to a body. The piezoelectric switch is placed on the base, by mechanic linear power transfer, functions of the portable game machine is controlled by operation the steering wheel. By levers to transfer power, the function keys of the steering wheel are corresponding to function keys of the portable game machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Weistech Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wei Hsu
  • Patent number: 7017911
    Abstract: A game comprising a submersible retrieving submarine adapted to receive and interpret RF directional command signals, an RF transmitting remote controller adapted for sending such signals to cause the craft to submerge and then cause the submerged craft to move in selected underwater directions, and targets of assigned values adapted for standing on the underwater bottom. The craft is adapted with a hook for engaging the targets and carrying them to the water's surface so that the accumulated value of the collected targets can be tallied to provide a score. One or more players can compete to tally the highest score, using either one controller/submarine set consecutively, or two sets simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventor: Francis See Chong Chia
  • Patent number: 6992593
    Abstract: A security alarm device is replicated in a toy vehicle. The security device includes a remote control which also can control vehicle functions. The remote control may control alarm arm and disarm, alarm and vehicle sounds such as arm, disarm, alarm set off, engine revving, tire screeching, motor drive, and vehicle lights. The security alarm device includes an LED which indicates whether the alarm is armed or unarmed, and a motion sensor which sets the alarm off (e.g., emitting a siren sound) when the toy vehicle is moved in its armed state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Toymax, Inc.
    Inventor: Russell Javors
  • Patent number: 6834261
    Abstract: A simulated steering feel system 10 for use in a vehicle, Laboratory Simulator, or entertainment device employs a servo disk motor 14. The servo disk motor 14 is utilized to import improved torque feedback to a steering wheel or input device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Visteon Corporation
    Inventor: Brian James Andonian
  • Patent number: 6805604
    Abstract: A toy driving mechanism includes a housing, a display element coupled to the housing, and a controller mounted on the housing and coupled to the display element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: James G. Brumagin, Peter M. Harris, John T. Smokowski
  • Patent number: 6592375
    Abstract: A vehicle simulation system includes a sound resonant chamber assembly for simulating audio sounds representative of the sounds produced during the operation of the simulated vehicle, comprising a speaker and a sound resonant tube attached to the speaker for enhancing and directing the audio sounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Midway Games West Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Henry, Mark L. Gruber, Peter W. Mokris
  • Patent number: 6533281
    Abstract: A playing machine making a player feel as if a car is running by moving a mobile body modeling a car shape on the surface of a circulating endless belt, wherein front wheels mounted on the mobile body are turned in a moving direction by a relatively simple mechanism. The mobile body 40 comprises a body 50, the front wheels 43 which are mounted so as to face toward the front both sides of the body 50 and which can swing around steering shafts 70 perpendicular to the obverse surface of the endless belt 20 and a wheel arm 46 to which the both front wheels 43 are connected at positions forward from the steering shafts 70 and which is formed to be movable according to the swing of the front wheels 43 around the steering shafts 70. Moreover, and the obverse-side attraction means 86 is fitted to the wheel arm 46 and is formed to be movable together with the wheel arm 46.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Sammy Corporation
    Inventor: Naoji Kumagai
  • Patent number: 6461238
    Abstract: The present invention describes a portable simulation game apparatus that permits a user operating the game apparatus to move or control a three dimensional object. The movement or current position of the three dimensional object is sensed by a plurality of sensors and transmitted to a circuit board or a control means. The control means may then relate the movement or position of the three dimensional object to pre-programmed images displayed in front of the three dimensional object, on a display means. Typically, the pre-programmed images being displayed represent a race or a track for which the three dimensional object, being a vehicle, may interact therewith. To move the three dimensional object, the user tilts or moves the game apparatus in a specific direction the user wants the object to move.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: Rehco, LLC
    Inventors: Steven Rehkemper, Ryan Kratz
  • Patent number: 6450889
    Abstract: An arcade-style racing game is described. The game preferably includes one or more individual competition games that measure the fractional performance of a player, and an indicator of progress for each individual game. Each indicator of moves at a variable rate, the rate being determined by the fractional performance of a player in an associated game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Bob's Space Racers, Inc.
    Inventor: John F. Mendes, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6435931
    Abstract: A mobile toy having a plurality of compartments for containing persons. At least some of the compartments are sized to contain walking children. Each compartment is defined by a sidewall structure having a side opening for ingress and egress and each of the compartments is open at a top and at a bottom. The toy is further provided with means for suggesting an identity that stimulates a child's interest and includes structure for utilizing walking energy of persons within the compartments to cause the toy to move. The toy permits children to be organized for walking from one location to another while simultaneously enjoying a play experience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventors: Robin Marie Yaeger, Roy Robert Ryer
  • Patent number: 6435875
    Abstract: An electronic game includes a housing supporting a pair of handles and a pivotable turn table. A model bulldozer is supported upon the turntable while each handle supports a moveable squeeze activated control lever. A liquid crystal display is positioned upon the housing and includes a miniature bulldozer image element together with a scrolling background image set. A microprocessor control circuit within the game unit responds to the actuation of the control levers to scroll the image display appropriately. A mechanical linkage mechanism coupled to the turntable is operated by the control levers to appropriately pivot the turntable and model bulldozer thereon to further simulate steering of the bulldozer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventor: Kurt Karussi
  • Patent number: 6431872
    Abstract: A cockpit is supported by a motion base in a state of being capable of making swinging movement. A host computer calculate vehicle motion information in accordance with operation of various operation equipments performed by a driver accommodated in the cockpit. A simulation image is formed, the cockpit is controlled for swinging movement, and various meters or the like in the cockpit are controlled on the basis of an obtained result of the calculation. Thus, the drive simulation is carried out in a state approximate to that of a real vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Honda Kigen Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shuji Shiraishi, Yuichi Hashimoto, Yutaka Nishi, Mitsuya Serizawa, Osamu Yamamoto, Takashi Nishihara, Hiroyuki Kawagoe, Nobuharu Kuriki, Takuya Sakai, Hidenori Ishihama, Toyotaka Torii, Akihiko Ohtsu
  • Patent number: 6306041
    Abstract: An arcade-style racing game is described. The game preferably includes a gaming surface, an actuator, a first feedback device, a game piece, a steering mechanism, a second feedback device, and a processor. A racing track may be depicted on the gaming surface. An actuator is preferably adapted to rotate the surface about an axis on command. The game piece is preferably positioned substantially adjacent to the surface. The steering mechanism is preferably indirectly connected to the game piece, and it may be adapted to move or rotate the game piece over a predetermined range. With use of the steering mechanism, a game player may position the game piece near the center of the racing track as the surface rotates about the central axis. A player's performance may be determined fractionally by continually determining the rotational position of the track and the lateral position of the game piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Bob's Space Racers, Inc.
    Inventor: John F. Mendes, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6257585
    Abstract: An arcade-style racing game is described. The game preferably includes a surface an actuator, a game piece, and a steering mechanism. A racing track may be depicted on the surface. An actuator is preferably adapted to rotate the surface about a central axis on command. The game piece is preferably positioned substantially adjacent to the surface. The steering mechanism is preferably connected to the game piece and it may be adapted to rotate or turn the game piece a predetermined range. With use of the steering mechanism, a game player may position the game piece substantially within the boundaries of the racing track as the surface rotates about the central axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Bob's Space Racers, Inc.
    Inventor: John F. Mendes, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6251015
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention provides a game unit controller for controlling a game unit in a manner that simulates the feel of a bicycle, scooter, motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle, snowmobile, jet ski, or the like. The game unit controller includes a base with a clamp coupled thereto for securing the base to a peripheral edge of a table. Also included is a pivoting unit movably coupled to the base for generating control signals upon movement thereof. A handlebar assembly is coupled to the pivoting unit for being gripped by a user and moving the pivoting unit, thereby effecting the generation of the control signals which in turn control the associated game unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Micron Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Caprai
  • Patent number: 6227967
    Abstract: A prize redemption game apparatus includes an elongated runway, an elastic abutment member at the second end of the runway, and a rollable object disposed for rolling travel along the runway between the first end and the second end. The playing is disposed within an enclosure to prevent player interference with the object. The rollable object is adapted to be initially propelled in one direction from a starting position toward the abutment member and if the object engages with the abutment member it is propelled in an opposite direction by a rebounding force of the abutment member. The rollable object adapted to stop rolling while moving in either direction at a final position along the runway between the first end and the second end. An electronic game controller determines the position of the stopped object and determines a winning value associated with the final position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: David Peretz
  • Patent number: 6200138
    Abstract: A game display method displays a driving game which permits characters to be present in a city and can prevent cruel images of collisions with characters. Characters in a dangerous area are intentionally moved away from a motorbike B. Those H1, H2 of the characters behind the motorbike B as viewed in a moving direction of the motorbike B are intentionally moved away from a current position 01 of the motorbike B, a position of the center of the motorbike B. Those H3, H4, H5 of the characters in front of the motorbike B as viewed in the moving direction of the motorbike B are intentionally moved toward the back of the motorbike B, i.e., directions normal to a straight line interconnecting the position 01 of the center of the motorbike B and the characters H3, H4, H5. The characters H3, H4, who are forward left of the motorbike B, are moved left, and the character Hr, who is forward right, is moved right.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: Sega Enterprises, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeshi Ando, Kazunari Tsukamoto, Toshiya Yamaguchi, Tomoya Takasugi, Masaaki Ito, Toshikazu Goi
  • Patent number: 6028533
    Abstract: A security alarm device is replicated in a toy vehicle. The security device includes a remote control which also can control vehicle functions. The remote control may control alarm arm and disarm, alarm and vehicle sounds such as arm, disarm, alarm set off, engine revving, tire screeching, motor drive, and vehicle lights. The security alarm device includes an LED which indicates whether the alarm is armed or unarmed, and a motion sensor which sets the alarm off (e.g., emitting a siren sound) when the toy vehicle is moved in its armed state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Toymax Inc.
    Inventor: Russell Javors
  • Patent number: 5951018
    Abstract: This invention relates to a simulative driving game machine. A slide cylinder is driven in accordance with an acceleration of an accelerator or a deceleration of a brake to slide a connector provided at a lower rear position of a forward/backward moving unit along a guide rail and move a roller provided at a lower forward position thereof along a guide track. The guide rail is provided at a rear position of the game machine with a downward slope with respect to a forward direction of the game machine, and the guide track is provided at a forward position of the game machine with an upward slope with respect to the forward direction. When a driver attempts to start the game machine abruptly, the driver is subject to a force acting in backward direction of the game machine. At this time, a forward portion of a machine main body raises up, and a rear portion thereof lowers obliquely downward. When the driver steps on the brake, the driver is subject to a force acting in the forward direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Konami Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hirofumi Mamitsu
  • Patent number: 5823876
    Abstract: A computer driven video game accessory having a steering wheel or yoke coupled to a steering shaft, and having the steering shaft mounted in a frame. The steering torque applied by a player is opposed by non-linear torques created by a crank coupled to the steering shaft and a special kind of double acting pneumatic/hydraulic cylinder. The preferred embodiment includes an electric motor coupled by a clockwork to the steering shaft to superpose additional torques to simulate operation of boats, airplanes, cars, trucks, and the like. The player experiences an opposing torque which is composed of several torques, thus giving a richer, more complex driving experience. One major object of the invention is that a player who is physically strong and thus turns the wheel quickly will encounter more instantaneous opposing torque than would a weak player who turns the wheel slowly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Inventor: Erick Michael Unbehand
  • Patent number: 5794936
    Abstract: A game apparatus in which the spiral spring is wound up by only operation of a handle or the like. The game apparatus comprises an operation member; a movement body for moving reciprocally in accordance with an operation of the operation member; a spiral spring used as a power source; a spiral spring winding-up mechanism for winding up the spiral spring by the operation of the operation member so as to store an energy in the spiral spring; a rotating member which has a display of a path for the movement body and is rotatable; and a power transmitting gear for transmitting the stored energy of the spiral spring to the rotating member to rotate; wherein one end of the spiral spring is engaged with a shaft of the spiral spring winding-up mechanism, which is rotated by the operation of the operation member, and the other end of the spiral spring is engaged with the power transmitting gear so as to enable rotation of the rotating member while the spiral spring is wound up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignees: Toybox Corporation, Imagic, Inc.
    Inventor: Katsumi Kakizaki
  • Patent number: 5702107
    Abstract: Toy vehicles for the game include a plurality of targets on each vehicle movable between first and second positions. Switches are associated with the respective targets and in closed positions connect a battery in parallel to a motor for running the toy vehicle. Each vehicle has a protrusion for impacting against the target of another vehicle. Upon impact, the target is moved to a second position opening the switch. The circuit provides for the continued running of each vehicle until the last target is impacted and its switch is opened, at which time the power circuit is opened and the vehicle stops. The game is played in the form of a demolition derby in which the last vehicle running is the winner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Inventor: Joseph R. Novak
  • Patent number: 5683298
    Abstract: An obstacle course for remotely controlled toy vehicles. A plurality of track circuits are arranged in tiered fashion upon a core support structure. Each track circuit has obstacles such as pits, rocks, and traps which must be negotiated to complete a challenge level. Upon successful completion of a particular challenge on one of these track circuits, the vehicle may advance to the next higher track circuit through an up ramp. There a new challenge in the form of different obstacles are presented. The obstacle course ends on a top face of the support structure which allows direct head-to-head confrontations to determine a winner should all vehicles in a competition successfully complete the obstacle portion of the course. Optional clock timers may set a time limit for completion of the course as a whole or any given level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Inventor: Perry L. Jackson
  • Patent number: 5664785
    Abstract: A toy airplane game involving a central upright member, flying device, airplane tether mechanism attached to the flying device, and landing area, wherein the operator controls the operation of the flying device in takeoff, flying and landing to different predetermined location on a map or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Inventor: Hoang Van Nguyen
  • Patent number: 5623642
    Abstract: This invention enables a bandwidth efficient computer simulation of sustained contact between objects. When an object comes into sustained contact with a second object, it will communicate to the second object a transfer function describing the contact, and vice-versa. The transfer function enables the objects to simulate the sustained contact for as long as the contact continues, eliminating any need for further network communication between the objects regarding the state of the contact until the contact terminates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1997
    Assignee: M ak Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Warren J. Katz, Darrin Taylor, John Morrison
  • Patent number: 5618178
    Abstract: A driver training system for a user of a simulated vehicle. The system includes input devices for controlling the simulated vehicle, a video display having three dimensional graphics, a computer, modeling software for determining position information based on the input devices, atmospheric effects software to simulate time-of-day and weather conditions, and realistic operating feedback software for simulating on the input devices the feedback normally experienced with operating the vehicle. One aspect of the preferred embodiment is a system including a low frequency speaker mounted on an enclosure adjacent to the simulation user's seat through which road feel cues such as hitting an object are transmitted to the user in response to signals received from the computer. Another aspect of the invention is the a system for simulating the feel to the user of anti-lock brakes on a brake pedal in response to signals received the computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1997
    Assignee: Atari Games Corporation
    Inventors: Norman S. Copperman, Wade O. Winblad
  • Patent number: 5618179
    Abstract: A driver training system for a user of a simulated vehicle. The system includes input devices for controlling the simulated vehicle, a video display having three-dimensional graphics, modeling software for determining position information based on the input devices, atmospheric effects software to simulate time-of-day and weather conditions, and recursive training software to display a previous route through an environment simultaneously with a present route through the environment together with associated performance data. Another aspect of the recursive training software replays either the previous route or present route and controls one of the input devices to provide "hands-on" feedback to the user. The user then incrementally and recursively maximizes parameters associated with vehicle operation skill. The driver training system may be embodied as a vehicle simulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1997
    Assignee: Atari Games Corpooration
    Inventors: Norman S. Copperman, Alan S. Gray, Wade O. Winblad
  • Patent number: 5597165
    Abstract: A radio controlled vehicle having a device attached to the front of the vehicle for scooping and retaining a playing ball in a retaining area. The ball is scooped and captured by driving the vehicle towards the ball with sufficient velocity to guide it between channeling rails and through a flexible retaining barrier which prevents further escape of the ball during vehicle maneuvering. The vehicle also includes a ball propelling device which is capable of forcefully dislodging the ball from its retaining area and imparting a velocity to the ball away from the vehicle. This system can be used to play a game whereby the bounds of a playing area and goals are defined, and players maneuver their vehicles within this area. Players capture the free ranging ball, maneuver it towards a goal, aim and shoot the ball in an attempt to score. Errant in-bound shots would then be re-captured, re-maneuvered, and re-shot during the course of play.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Inventors: Christopher Rundle, Michael Borell
  • Patent number: 5577736
    Abstract: A team game utilizing electrically powered cars and a pair of targets has an electrified floor to supply power to the cars. Two teams of players attempt to score as many points as possible. Each player drives one car around the floor area, positioning themselves in range to shoot at a multiple holed target or goal. The cars are capable of precise movement due to the joystick control and processor connected thereto, and the control it has over the movement of a hydrostatic transmission. This gives the car a movement controllable as to speed and direction, including the ability to stop and reverse directions without repositioning of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Inventor: Emile D. Arabo
  • Patent number: 5547382
    Abstract: A motorcycle riding simulation system including a model motorcycle operated and ridden upon by a person. Responsive to operation by the person riding, the model motorcycle is moved by a driven mount to pitch, yaw and roll to simulate riding conditions. A moving image such as scenery which would be seen from a running motorcycle is displayed in front of the person riding. The moving image is varied in response to driving conditions of the model motorcycle and is provided by a display with a curved screen. An image projector projects images on the curved screen from behind. The system is provided with an image recorder for recording both images displayed by the display and driving operation data. An output provides access to recorded information in the image recorder. A background image is reflected in the rear view mirrors of a two-wheeled simulation vehicle. The image is formed by a background image generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Gorou Yamasaki, Iseno Mitsuru, Yukio Miyamaru
  • Patent number: 5463370
    Abstract: A sensor for detecting the degree of the operation of the accelerator in an automobile is provided and the display apparatus for expanding shrinking the display detection of the sensor is provided in the automobile so that the display apparatus can be observed from the outside. Apparatus for detecting the number of rotation of engine and the depressing degree of the brake pedal also provided. The number of the engine and the depressing degree of the brake pedal as well as operation degree of the accelerator pedal is displayed inside the car and outside the car by using the light emitting display apparatus. Apparatus for detecting the running speed of vehicle and the apparatus for detecting the acceleration and the deceleration of the vehicle are provided a plurality of different meaningful of character strings are displayed outside the vehicle in accordance with the detection status of the detecting apparatus to that the running status of the automobile is displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Assignee: Tamapack Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaaki Ishikawa, Masao Yamada
  • Patent number: 5435553
    Abstract: A circuit race type game system is played by a plurality of players while running game racing cars on a circuit course. The circuit course includes a plurality of position indicating markers located thereon. The game racing cars run on the circuit while detecting the position indicating markers. A play field includes a host computer which receives a marker detection signal from each of the game racing cars to grasp the state of that game racing car running on the circuit course. Lap time for each lap and final lap time required by each of the game racing cars from the start to the goal are computed by the host computer as running time, these computed values being then displayed on a display panel with the ranking of that game racing car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Assignee: Namco Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshio Arima, Genzoh Watanabe
  • Patent number: 5368484
    Abstract: A driver training system for a user of a simulated vehicle. The system includes input devices for controlling the simulated vehicle, a video display having three dimensional graphics, a computer, modeling software for determining position information based on the input devices, atmospheric effects software to simulate time-of-day and weather conditions, and realistic operating feedback software for simulating on the input devices the feedback normally experienced with operating the vehicle. One aspect of the preferred embodiment is a system including a low frequency speaker mounted on an enclosure adjacent to the simulation user's seat through which road feel cues such as hitting an object are transmitted to the user in response to signals received from the computer. Another aspect of the invention is the a system for simulating the feel to the user of anti-lock brakes on a brake pedal in response to signals received the computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1994
    Assignee: Atari Games Corp.
    Inventors: Norman S. Copperman, Wade O. Winblad
  • Patent number: 5366376
    Abstract: A driver training system for a user of a simulated vehicle. The system includes input devices for controlling the simulated vehicle, a video display having three-dimensional graphics, modeling software for determining position information based on the input devices, atmospheric effects software to simulate time-of-day and weather conditions, and recursive training software to display a previous route through an environment simultaneously with a present route through the environment together with associated performance data. Another aspect of the recursive training software replays either the previous route or present route and controls one of the input devices to provide "hands-on" feedback to the user. The user then incrementally and recursively maximizes parameters associated with vehicle operation skill. The driver training system may be embodied as a vehicle simulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Assignee: Atari Games Corporation
    Inventors: Norman S. Copperman, Alan S. Gray, Wade O. Winblad
  • Patent number: 5346398
    Abstract: A stationary game machine can responds to steering by a player to change the orientation of a dummy mover such a vehicle or the like, and also to translate the dummy mover in a direction crossing the dummy mover's path of movement at a speed corresponding to the changed orientation. The game machine can comprise a stationary vehicle used as the dummy mover and an endless belt representing a road as the path of movement.As the scenes on and in the road change in association with the movement of the endless belt, a steering wheel is rotated by the player to change the orientation of the vehicle and, at the same time, to translate the vehicle in the transverse direction. Tile translation of the vehicle is accomplished by a combination of a rotating shaft with a pressure roller contacting the rotating shaft, the cross-angle between the rotating shaft and the pressure roller being controlled to generate a thrust for translating the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1994
    Assignee: Namco Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroki Nakahata, Yoshinori Satoh, Tatsuhisa Yabushita
  • Patent number: 5299810
    Abstract: A vehicle simulator has tandem surfaces for supporting first and second users, who "drive" respective first and simulated vehicles through a simulated space. A solenoid is mounted underneath each surface for selectively impacting the associated surface to give the user the sensation of having his simulated vehicle hit by a projectile.Each user sits in front of a video monitor, and each monitor is electrically connected to a computer. Each computer has a "map" of a simulated space stored in its electronic memory, and the computers are linked through a common RAM. The computers cause their monitors to display a changing video image of the simulated space to model motion of the simulated vehicles through the space, in response to signals from controls that can be manipulated by the operators.Each user controls a trigger which can be pushed to initiate the motion of a simulated projectile through the simulated space toward the user's vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Assignee: Atari Games Corporation
    Inventors: Mark S. Pierce, Milton H. Loper, III, Dennis D. Harper, David S. Akers, Samuel Lee