Abstract: The present disclosure relates to systems, devices, and methods for measuring physical impacts to various surfaces, including athletic equipment such as punching bags, tackling dummies, etc. An example system includes a punching bag and a plurality of force sensors coupled to the punching bag. The force sensors are configured to detect physical impacts on the punching bag.

Abstract: A punching bag training comprises a flexible housing adapted to be wrapped around a punching bag. The housing supports a strike pad array. Each strike pad in the array comprises a force sensor to detect strikes, together with a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that are positioned around the force sensor and that are lit when the user strikes the pad accurately (e.g., within a predetermined strike zone, and within a predetermined time). In addition, each strike pad has associated therewith an extension (or connecting) portion that couples the strike pad to the center portion. The connecting portion advantageously includes a set of LEDs that are selectively lit to telegraph a hit point to the user, namely, the strike pad associated with the connecting portion. The LEDs arranged on the connecting portion serve as a runway with the LEDs being lit progressively from the center portion and outward toward the strike pad to be hit next in a programmed hit sequence.

Abstract: Three dimensional spaces whereby any physical media are gamified, or made into a GAMESPACE or VR combined space in which multiple unique users/participants contemporaneously by interaction for points compete with real-time shifting and the same course measured for all by a Master Control System.

Abstract: For the vehicles of an interactive fairground ride, in particular a rollercoaster, control consoles are proposed which are equipped with a control button and a display unit and are assigned to each passenger. These control buttons and, if appropriate, the display units of all the control consoles, are connected by means of a transmitter, by radio or by cable, to an evaluation and control unit which detects the reaction times for all passengers and calculates a mean value, the collective reaction time, therefrom. A signal for starting the vehicle is not generated until after the expiry of the collective reaction time. In a fairground ride of this kind, the emphasis is on the interaction between all the passengers of a vehicle.

Abstract: A method of interpreting an activity of a person on a flexible mat of a trampoline, the method comprising: at least one processor determining a bounce instruction for the person on the flexible mat; determining a first bounce location of the person on the flexible mat; determining a second bounce location of the person on the flexible mat; determining a lead time boundary interval; responsive to determining a time of display of the bounce instruction prior to the lead time boundary interval, the at least one processor comparing the second bounce location with the bounce instruction; and responsive to determining a time of display of the bounce instruction within the lead time boundary interval, the at least one processor determining a third bounce location of the person on the flexible mat and comparing the third bounce location with the bounce instruction.

Abstract: Apparatuses, systems, methods, and computer program products are presented for competitive escape rooms. A first room has a predetermined method to accomplish a task within the first room. A second room has a same predetermined method to accomplish a same task within the second room as in a first room. A hardware controller device determines in which of a first room and a second room a task is completed first by one of a plurality of competing sets of users.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a system and method to implement a performance test to help evaluate a patient's neurological and cognitive function. The performance test can be executed by the patient autonomously using a portable computing device, such as a tablet computer or smart phone. The portable computing device can be programmed to execute a set of modules configured to assess motor and cognitive performance, such as a manual function test module, a cognitive processing speed test module, and a movement assessment test module. The set of modules can also include a collection module to aggregate test data from the manual function test module, the cognitive processing speed test module, and the movement assessment test module.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices for automatically evaluating a martial arts move are described. The method may include identifying a distance between a target and a sensor coupled with a user and receiving motion data from the sensor. The motion data may include linear acceleration data and rotation data. The method may further include calculating, based on the distance and the linear acceleration data, an end point in three-dimensional space of the martial arts move and determining whether the user made contact with the target based on a comparison between the end point and a three-dimensional representant of the target. The method may further include determining a rotational characteristic of the move and comparing the rotational characteristic with a stored model of the move. The method may further include evaluating the move based on whether the user made contact with the target and the comparison of the rotational characteristic.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for monitoring a physiological parameter of players engaged in a sporting activity. The system includes a plurality of reporting units, a controller, and a signaling device. The reporting unit has an arrangement of sensing devices that measure the physiological parameter of an individual player and generate parameter data. The controller receives the parameter data transmitted from each reporting unit and then processes the parameter data to calculate a parameter result. When the parameter result exceeds a predetermined value, the controller communicates with a signaling device that provides an alert to sideline personnel to monitor the player(s) in question. The system also includes a remote storage device for holding historical data collected by the system which permits subsequent analysis.

Abstract: Apparatus for inducing sleep comprising: a. a display for providing a subject with a light stimulus; b. a base unit on which said display is mounted such that the display is selectively positionable, in use, into a field of view of a subject; c. input means for recording an active input provided by the subject in response to the stimulus; d. processing means for processing said active input to determine a characteristic of said active input; and e. a base unit housing one or more of said means, wherein the apparatus is capable of sequentially providing the subject with a plurality of stimuli, each next stimulus being based on a characteristic determined from the active input made in response to a previous stimulus, and wherein a position and/or brightness and/or a color and/or a shape of the next stimulus on the display and/or a time interval between stimuli is based on the characteristic of the active input provided in response to a previous stimulus.

Abstract: A punching bag training system comprises a flexible housing adapted to be wrapped around a punching bag. The housing supports a strike pad array. Each strike pad in the array comprises a force sensor to detect strikes, together with a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that are positioned around the force sensor and that are lit when the user strikes the pad accurately. In addition, each strike pad has associated therewith an extension portion that couples the strike pad to the center portion. The connecting portion advantageously includes a set of LEDs that are selectively lit to telegraph a hit point to the user, namely, the strike pad associated with the connecting portion. The LEDs arranged on the connecting portion serve as a runway with the LEDs being lit progressively from the center portion and outward toward the strike pad to be hit next in a programmed hit sequence.

Abstract: A real time physical reality immersive experience having gameification of actions taken in physical reality combines endurance events and gaming aspects to create a novel entertainment systems, methods, and apparatus, including Modular Efficiently Transformable Assembly Structures (METAS).

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to systems (200), apparatus and methods utilizing the soundscape of the appliance (204) to generate content for a dynamic output. In various embodiments, the output generated by the apparatus is varied based on differences in the acoustic signal resulting from changes in the operating state of the appliance (204). By utilizing the soundscape of the appliance (204), a non-repetitive and pseudo-random, but still recognizable outputs associated with the appliance (204), can be generated based on the various operating states of the appliance (204). The user's operation of the appliance (204) may influence the acoustic signal received by the apparatus which may further influence the output produced by the appliance (204). The systems (200), apparatus and methods described herein employ a dynamic acoustic signal of an appliance (204) to provide a user with a dynamic output to engage the user in a manner that increases their interest in and attachment to the appliance (204).

Abstract: A toy apparatus includes a base piece and a plurality of elongated members. The base piece is configured to slide on a surface. Each elongated member has a first end and a second end, with the elongated members being movably coupled to the base piece near the first ends. A tether is coupled to the first ends of the elongated members, and tension applied to the tether moves the elongated members from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the second ends of the elongated members are expanded apart from each other. In the second position, the second ends of the elongated members are contracted toward each other and are capable of surrounding a target piece.

Abstract: An integrated exercise mat system can include: a user device having a display for displaying an application, providing a metric, and enabling user inputs; an exercise mat coupled to the user device, the exercise mat having a sensor to detect an article on the exercise mat and to obtain a force measurement exerted by the article through a movement, and the exercise mat having a communication module to communicatively connect the exercise mat with a processor and provide the force measurement to the processor; and wherein the processor performs a plurality of calculations based on the force measurement.

Abstract: An example exercise mat is disclosed. The exercise mat comprises at least one sensor to detect an article on the mat and obtain a force measurement exerted by the article through a movement; and a communications unit to communicatively connect the mat to a computing device and provide the force measurement to the computing device. The computing device performs a plurality of calculations based on the force measurement.

Abstract: Systems, apparatuses, and methods for determining when an athlete is in possession of a ball by analyzing image data are provided. A camera is worn by an athlete and is turned on when the athlete is in proximity of a ball. The camera is used to generate an image of a ball. The size of the ball is determined and compared to a threshold. The athlete is considered to be in possession of the ball when the size of the image exceeds the threshold.

Abstract: A corner booster for accelerating toy vehicles includes an entrance to which a toy vehicle enters the booster, and an exit from which the toy vehicle exits the booster. The entrance and exit are orientated so that the toy vehicle turns when traveling from the entrance to the exit. The corner booster further includes a booster member for applying a force to the toy vehicle. The force applied by the booster member increases the speed of the toy vehicle as the toy vehicle travels from the entrance to the exit. The corner booster includes a cocking mechanism that cocks the booster member with preloaded mechanical energy. The preloaded mechanical energy is used to move the booster member to apply the boosting force to the toy vehicle.

Abstract: A video game processing apparatus is provided. Game information on first and second game modes for a video game is stored in a game information memory. In a case where a video game start request is received, progress of the video game in a first game mode is controlled in accordance with an instruction inputted using a first controller. A player is induced to carry out a game mode shifting operation in a case where it is determined that predetermined conditions are satisfied. A second controller is caused to move from a storage state to an exposed state in a case where the game mode shifting operation is received. Progress of the video game in the second game mode is controlled in accordance with an instruction inputted using the second controller in a case where the second controller is caused to move to the exposed state.

Abstract: A method for conducting a race series, involving determining an elimination number; determining a field number, wherein the field number minus one is equally divisible by the elimination number; selecting a field number of participants; separating the field number of participants into the elimination number of racing groups; conducting a plurality of races wherein each race has a winner; conducting a first race between all participants in the first racing group; conducting at least an elimination number minus one of races subsequent to the first race; wherein each of races subsequent to the first race is conducted between the participants in any of the racing groups and winner of the previous race; and continuing to conduct races subsequent to the first race until a single winner wins an elimination number of consecutive races or there are the elimination number plus one different winners.

Abstract: The disclosure includes a variety of thrustback sleds. In one embodiment, the disclosure provides a thrust back training sled, including a base including a plurality of horizontal runners, a generally horizontal rail assembly disposed on the base, a trolley assembly disposed on the generally horizontal rail assembly, the trolley assembly including a plurality of rollers received by the rail assembly, the trolley being adapted to translate from a first, forward position to a second, rearward position along the generally horizontal rail assembly.

Abstract: A lottery game apparatus includes a distribution section (discharge section) that discharges a ball that has been discharged in response to an operation input performed using an operation section, a plurality of open areas that receive the ball that has fallen from the distribution section, a plurality of lottery sections that implement a lottery using the ball, a moving path that guides the ball that has fallen into a first open area to a first lottery section, a moving path that guides the ball that has fallen into a second open area to a second lottery section, and a moving path that guides the ball that has fallen into a third open area to a third lottery section. The distribution section changes the discharge position or the discharge direction of the ball.

Abstract: A method of automotive racing wherein at least two teams of vehicles race each other to determine the winning team to create an unparalleled, action-packed experience for fans of automotive racing. Such a racing format also allows for the successful creation of a racing league that offers fans home teams and a true playoff system with a championship race.

Abstract: Systems and methods of organizing and conducting games are set forth herein. One method of organizing and conducting a game comprises steps of arranging a plurality of contestants within a predefined adventurous area, and providing a plurality of items, each item having a distinct identifying characteristic. An ultralight with a programmable ejection system launches the plurality of items into the adventurous area through the air according to a predetermined routine. The contestants are allowed to search for and collect the items launched by the ultralight within the adventurous area before the game ends. Means are provided for correlating the identifying characteristic of each item to a prize, and each contestant is allowed to retain the prize correlating to the identifying characteristic of the item that was collected by the contestant.

Abstract: Toy and game methods and apparatus including rectangular block elements layered to form a tower with upper and lower layers held by frictional coupling between the layers. The tower height increases during game play by removing blocks from one or more lower layers to build up successive upper layers upon an assembly platform. An upsetting element at the base transforms the blocks by dislodging the block elements with respect to the assembly platform by moving or traversing the assembly platform. A shifting mechanism may be provided in mechanical communication with the assembly platform for moving the platform between positions. A timer element establishes a predetermined time period from which the upsetting element transforms the block elements assembled atop the platform at an expiration of the set period of play time.

Abstract: A pressure-filled container-popping game is defined with pressure-filled containers that are positioned in a game play area behind various barriers. Each pressure-filled container has one or more prizes coupled to it. The barriers have openings or orifices which provides access to a corresponding pressure-filled container through the barrier. A player positions a moveable target arm using a game control attempting to align a piercing member attached to the target arm with a selected one of the orifices. When the player believes the piercing member is properly aligned, an attempt is triggered which causes the target arm to move the piercing member toward the selected orifice. If it is properly aligned, the piercing member passes through the orifice and impacts the corresponding pressure-filled container, popping it and sending the coupled prize or prizes falling into a prize chute. Otherwise, the piercing member impacts the barrier, ending the players game attempt.

Abstract: A lifting device for hammer game machine includes frame, a motor laterally mounted to a lower portion of the frame, a seat longitudinally mounted to an upper portion of the frame, a lifting unit partially received in and extending through the seat, a first bracket is secured on a lower end of the lifting device, a linkage assembly connected to the motor and a second bracket laterally mounted onto the linkage assembly through the frame. The first bracket and the second bracket are slidably relative to the frame and selectively connected to each other before being operated.

Abstract: A method of conducting a racing series for competitors and team owners is disclosed. The racing series has a plurality of races divided into a first and second set of races with competitors racing in both sets of races. The competitors and team owners are awarded points after each race, with those points being adjusted between the two sets of races. The points of only a predetermined number of competitors and/or team owners are adjusted between the sets of races. Awards, including a championship, are awarded based on the points accumulated during the racing series.

Abstract: Methods of implementing geocaching games are provided in which information is provided regarding a location of a waypoint. Thereafter, it is confirmed that a player of the game physically arrived at the waypoint. After such confirmation has been obtained, the player may be awarded a virtual prize. Related geocaching games and computer program products are also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus for playing a game is provided. The apparatus may include a base, a plurality of projectiles and a first target platform moveable with respect to the base. The first target platform may include a collecting position, in which the plurality of projectiles are collected at the first target platform, and a dispersing position, in which the plurality of projectiles are dispersed from the first target platform. The apparatus may further include an actuator mechanism configured to actuate movement of the first target platform from the collecting position to the dispersing position and a first launcher attached to the base and configured to project the plurality of projectiles toward the first target platform.

Abstract: A method for measuring an upper limb reaching capability of a user with an impaired limb is provided. Each upper limb is placed at a default position on a horizontal surface. A target is displayed from among a plurality of targets on the horizontal surface. One of the limbs reaches for the target. Limb choice, position information and elapsed time are sensed and recorded. The reaching limb is retracted to the default position. The displaying step through the retracting step are repeated for each of the plurality of targets, wherein each of the plurality of targets is spaced apart.

Abstract: A vehicle chase game includes a first game object and a second game object. A second game object scans for a projected spot on an overhead surface. The second game object detects the projected spot on the overhead surface and gathers location information based on the detected projected spot. The second game object generates a position of a first game object based on the location information. The second game object transfers the position of the first game object to the chase game application program. The chase game application program selects a behavior based on the position of the first game object, where a goal of the behavior is to drive the second game object to intercept the first game object. The chase game application program sends instructions to the second game object's mechanical and electrical systems to execute the selected behaviors.

Abstract: A game for cycling takes place on velodromes, or tracks. The game has three teams competing at the same time to claim victory and advance to higher levels of competition. Each cyclist on a team accumulates points based upon crossing a finish line in the first group of five. Each team has nine members with sprinter and long distance roles. Each team competes in up to ten races during a single game. When teams increase to four in an area, the four teams form a division. After twelve games, the teams and divisions hold a two game playoff that aids in the selection of a national team. The national teams then compete in a worldwide championship game. The game includes select lighting and camera equipment suitable for creating an attractive television product.

Abstract: A prize-displaying apparatus includes a wall, two mounts, two boards, two axles and a motor. The wall includes two apertures defined therein. Each mount includes a horizontal section between two vertical sections. Each vertical section of each mount includes an aperture defined therein. Each board includes a sleeve formed thereon. Each axle is inserted in a related aperture of the wall, the apertures of a related mount and the sleeve of a related board. The motor is operatively connected to one of the axles so that the related board can be pivoted between a supporting position where it supports the other board and a releasing position where it leaves and allows the other board to fall.

Abstract: In a game played by a plurality of game machines through teamwork, an evaluation is performed according to the correlation among operation information obtained through communications with each of the game machines. A plurality of game machines communicate with one another to establish timing synchronization. After the game, input timings at which buttons are operated during the game are collected and then evaluated so as to determine an absolute and relative timing coincidence in a predetermined period (unison part). A predetermined number of points are added to its game score based on the evaluation.

Abstract: An athletic performance measurement system determines the reaction time, performance time and response time for an athlete to perform an event. A timing processor is in communication with two spaced-apart switches and when the athlete activates the first switch, it sets in motion a system for randomly activating a transducer that alerts the athlete to start the test. The athlete manipulates the first switch in response to detecting the activated transducer while the device measures the time it takes for this activity, thereby defining the athlete's reaction time. Then, the athlete manipulates the spaced apart second switch while the system monitors the time it takes to perform this task, thereby defining the athlete's performance time. The total response time is then calculated by adding the reaction time to the performance time. A testing protocol for performing a plurality of timed tests and averaging the scores is also disclosed.

Abstract: A game system for reliably realizing synchronization of timings at which a common event in a plurality of game machines start. The game system includes a plan management server that measures lapse of system time common in the game system and with the time measurement, updates plan information indicative of remaining time until the system time reaches a process start stage at which a process for the common event starts. Each of the game machines includes an obtaining device to obtain the plan information from the plan management server, a stage determining device to determine whether the system time has reached the process start stage or not on the basis of laps of time of the system time measured in the game machine, and a process executing device to start a process for the common event when it is determined that the system time has reached the process start stage.

Abstract: Provided is a game system executing a game by performing communication between a plurality of hand-held game apparatuses, each having a display section for displaying an image and an operation section, and a stationary game apparatus. In each of the plurality of hand-held game apparatuses, a plurality of directional signs indicative of operations performed by a player using the operation section is displayed on the display section. Operation data indicative of a content of the operation performed by using the operation section is transmitted to the stationary game apparatus. The stationary game apparatus receives the operation data transmitted from each of the plurality of hand-held game apparatuses. The stationary game apparatus obtains, from sound data storage means storing therein a plurality of pieces of sound data, sound data corresponding to the operation data, and at the same time, outputs a sound based on each piece of the obtained sound data.

Abstract: A game that includes a stylus with differently shaped ends and a housing having stylus-receiving holes therein that are in at least two sets corresponding to the shapes of the stylus ends. Variable visual indicators and sensors are associated with each hole, with the sensors operative to detect the presence of the stylus in the corresponding hole. A controller causes the visual indicators to be sequentially activated. The controller causes a different indictor to be activated in response the stylus being present in the targeted hole. Thus, the stylus-receiving holes are progressed through in a targeting sequence. The controller is configured to terminate an active game session in response to the earlier occurring of: expiration of the timer and detection of the insertion of the stylus into an untargeted hole. Various game modes are described, including with a vibration sensor and a moving housing.

Abstract: Described herein is a game system that includes a game control unit that communicates with a plurality of play units. Each play unit typically has a user input functionality (e.g., a button) and a visual indicator (e.g., lights). The play units can communicate and receive instructions from the game control unit. The game control unit may also include a user input, and can track play and upload results (e.g., scores) into a central data repository. Players may wear identification tags that can also provide identifying information for tracking or monitoring by the game control unit. Also described herein are methods of playing games using the system, and social networking website for players.

Abstract: A game apparatus and method of playing a game is disclosed herein. The game apparatus having: a central area that is configured to be rotated in a first direction; an outer member surrounding the central area, the outer member being configured to be rotated in a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction; a wall member separating an outer periphery of the central area from an inner periphery of the outer member; and a plurality of grabbing devices disposed about the outer member, each of the plurality of grabbing devices being configured to grab an object from the outer member and move it to the central area by tossing it over the wall member.

Abstract: Disclosed in this specification is an electronic board game. In use, a primary game (e.g. a card game) is played until one of the players presses an activation button. The other players attempt to quickly react and press their buttons. The faster they react, the more points the players earn. The initial activation of the timers can be done when that player perceives a predetermined event that occurred during the card game. The player may attempt to bluff the other players by pressing the button without having perceived the event but doing so risks the other players issuing a challenge. In certain embodiments, the cards are selected to help players learn basic skills, such as shapes, colors, or mathematical operations.

Abstract: In a game played by a plurality of game machines through teamwork, an evaluation is performed according to the correlation among operation information obtained through communications with each of the game machines. A plurality of game machines communicate with one another to establish timing synchronization. After the game, input timings at which buttons are operated during the game are collected and then evaluated so as to determine an absolute and relative timing coincidence in a predetermined period (unison part). A predetermined number of points are added to its game score based on the evaluation.

Abstract: The open frame form of the polyhedron-shaped game structures are disclosed for playing a three-dimensional racing game. A variety of spacers and polyhedron shapes are introduced to configure the shape of the present invention. The preferred embodiment of the game structure is constructed with cubic frame and orbital routes. Each player has single set of game pieces and advances each game piece on the game structure according to the number shown on the die. The players are challenged to race and capture the opponent's game pieces according to their strategic plan. After orbiting the game structure, the first player who races back all of his or her game pieces to the predetermined finish point becomes the winner.

Abstract: A game of defending statements with persuasive arguments consisting of a tossing bag, a “frequency” block, two equivalent “equation” blocks; three “verb” blocks and ten “noun” blocks, a number of which are shook inside the bag, then tossed onto a table top by a so-called author who then must form and then refine a statement from the words and symbols on the face up topsides of the tossed blocks, then contrive an argument based upon the statement meant to result in the articulation of a discernible concept, challengeable however by non-author players of the game; then requiring a defense of such an argument, resulting in an awarding of playing points or not depending upon the assessment by a majority of such non-author players as to the merits of such an argument or defense whereupon one; once an author-player; then becomes a challenger-player as another player, formerly a challenger then becomes an author.

Abstract: The systems and processes for handicapping a horse race using data from a past race disclosed herein enable a user to forecast the results of a horse race. The user or system selects a horse to handicap in an upcoming race, the handicapped race, and a comparable past race that the horse has run. The system then collects data from the past race and the handicapped race. After comparing data from the past race and the handicapped race, the system calculates a time adjustment to the final call time.

Abstract: The apparatus (10) compares the ability of multiple players to perform a physical task, and administers a disincentive, for example a measured electric shock to one or more unsuccessful players. In an example, the apparatus comprises a number of handsets (14) with input devices (22). The apparatus compares reaction time of a plurality of players from a start signal, and administers an electric shock to the players with slower, or the slowest, of reaction times via the handset.

Abstract: A game of estimating time can have multiple players competing against each other. The players can be provided with buzzers. The players are challenged to estimate a designated time interval. At the interval of time estimated by the person to be equal to the designated time interval the player actuates his buzzer. The buzzer can be signal-connected to a timer, which functions to display how close the estimated time interval of the player is to the designated time interval. Alternately a secret designated time interval is communicated to the players by the sounding of two buzzer sounds and the players have to estimate the length of the time interval that occurred between the buzzer sounds.

Abstract: In a game played by a plurality of game machines through teamwork, an evaluation is performed according to the correlation among operation information obtained through communications with each of the game machines. A plurality of game machines communicate with one another to establish timing synchronization. After the game, input timings at which buttons are operated during the game are collected and then evaluated so as to determine an absolute and relative timing coincidence in a predetermined period (unison part). A predetermined number of points are added to its game score based on the evaluation.

Abstract: A starting gate and timing device for foot races includes a frame and a plurality of levered restraints disposed across a track. Each of the levered restraints includes a barrier portion which is adapted to prevent a runner from crossing the start line before the barrier is moved out of the way. Each of the barrier portions also includes an audio speaker for alerting a runner of the start of a race. A scoreboard, timer and sensor are also provided for timing the race. A control system for controlling a start of a race is provided.