Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling access to, or interaction with, a variety of different types of devices is provided. The system includes a plurality of different lights that flash sequentially, the lights being distinguishable on the basis of color, location within a light pattern, or labeling. Alternately the system includes a single light that sequentially flashes different colors. The user enters data into the system by responding to particular lights in accordance with a predetermined light sequence. Alternately, the user enters data by responding to a particular light where each light corresponds to a predefined response. In general, a user responds to a particular light by triggering a response with the system's controller while the particular light is lit or before the next light in the sequence becomes lit. A user can trigger a response in a variety of ways, ranging from blinking an eye to pressing or otherwise operating a mechanical switch.

Abstract: A gaming device allows a user to scan bar codes and collect character data corresponding to characters and character item data corresponding to character items which affect attributes of the characters. The gaming device allows a user to cause simulated battles between characters. In some embodiments, the characters belong to one of a plurality of character groups which are at war with one another. In some embodiments, gaming devices may communicate with other gaming devices in order to engage in battles between characters corresponding to data stored on the respective gaming devices. In some embodiments, each character within a group has a different combination of attributes, which may include strength, magic and technology. In some embodiments, the same bar codes which include character data or character item data also correspond to commercial products unrelated to characters or character items.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling access to, or interaction with, a variety of different types of devices is provided. The system includes a plurality of different lights that flash sequentially, the lights being distinguishable on the basis of color, location within a light pattern, or labeling. Alternately the system includes a single light that sequentially flashes different colors. The user enters data into the system by responding to particular lights in accordance with a predetermined light sequence. Alternately, the user enters data by responding to a particular light where each light corresponds to a predefined response. In general, a user responds to a particular light by triggering a response with the system's controller while the particular light is lit or before the next light in the sequence becomes lit. A user can trigger a response in a variety of ways, ranging from blinking an eye to pressing or otherwise operating a mechanical switch.

Abstract: A gaming device allows a user to scan bar codes and collect character data corresponding to characters and character item data corresponding to character items which affect attributes of the characters. The gaming device allows a user to cause simulated battles between characters. In some embodiments, the characters belong to one of a plurality of character groups which are at war with one another. In some embodiments, gaming devices may communicate with other gaming devices in order to engage in battles between characters corresponding to data stored on the respective gaming devices. In some embodiments, each character within a group has a different combination of attributes, which may include strength, magic and technology. In some embodiments, the same bar codes which include character data or character item data also correspond to commercial products unrelated to characters or character items.

Abstract: A game pad controller for use with a dedicated game system, personal computer, or other device is provided. The game pad controller includes a plurality of individual stepping or touch zones. The central axis of each zone is non-parallel with sufficient angle between adjacent zone axes to accommodate users of various sizes.

Abstract: A gaming device allows a user to scan bar codes and collect character data corresponding to characters and character item data corresponding to character items which affect attributes of the characters. The gaming device allows a user to cause simulated battles between characters. In some embodiments, the characters belong to one of a plurality of character groups which are at war with one another. In some embodiments, gaming devices may communicate with other gaming devices in order to engage in battles between characters corresponding to data stored on the respective gaming devices. In some embodiments, each character within a group has a different combination of attributes, which may include strength, magic and technology. In some embodiments, the same bar codes which include character data or character item data also correspond to commercial products unrelated to characters or character items.

Abstract: An illuminator for a hand-held gaming or other electronic device is provided. The illuminator includes at least one light source contained within an enclosure that is rotatably mounted to a bracket. The bracket is rotatably mounted to a member secured to the gaming/electronic device. The bracket and light source enclosure can be rotated into multiple positions during use. During non-use, the bracket and light source enclosure can be rotated into a compact area for ease of transport. A diffuse light source, comprised of the combination of a fluorescent light and a diffuser, minimize ‘hot spots’ on the screen of the gaming/electronic device.

Abstract: A handheld game controller for use with a dedicated game system, personal computer, or other device is provided. The game controller includes two user grippable portions, typically a pair of handles, which the user holds during game play. As a result of this configuration, during use the game controller neither rests on nor becomes attached to a rigid surface such as a desk, tabletop, or other stationary object. In one aspect, one handle of the game controller is held by one of the user's hands while the second handle of the game controller, held by the user's other hand, is free to rotate within the predetermined rotational limits of the device. In a typical application, right direction and left direction control signals are sent to the game system or personal computer as a result of clockwise rotation and counter-clockwise rotation of the second handle of the game controller, respectively. A sensor coupled to the second handle generates the control signals.