Sensor Module Application in the Design of an Automatic Tabletop

Hockey Product Prototype for Leisure Activities and Mental Fitness

Li-Shiue Gau

, Chung-Wen Hung

, Chia-Jui Yang

, Tzu-Ling Liu

and Shiou-Ling Lin

Department of Business Administration, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan

Department of Electrical Engineering, National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, Yunlin, Taiwan

Keywords: Hockey, Signal, Leisure Activity, Mental Fitness, Device Engineering.

Abstract: With the fast-paced modern lifestyle and increasing work pressure, the demand for leisure and entertainment

is rising. Traditional tabletop hockey has been a popular leisure activity, primarily providing relaxation and

enjoyment while promoting interpersonal interaction. However, modern needs have evolved, transforming

games that once required multiple participants into formats suitable for solo play. This evolution has led to

the emergence of the automatic tabletop hockey product, creating new business opportunities. Despite its

immense potential, there are currently no automatic tabletop hockey products available in the market.

Therefore, the purpose of this study is threefold. First, sensor module applications were used to design an

automatic tabletop hockey product prototype. Second, this study also conducts an in-depth practical

investigation to assess the commercial feasibility of automatic tabletop hockey product in the perspective of

leisure activities. Third, an experimental design was conducted with young elementary school children to see

the experiential value of this product prototype, referring to the mental fitness. The anticipated contribution

of this study not only aims to satisfy the modern demand for leisure and entertainment but also has the

potential to open new business prospects.

1 INTRODUCTION

In response to the fast-paced modern lifestyle and the

accumulation of work pressure, the demand for

leisure and entertainment has become increasingly

significant. Modern individuals seek convenient,

enjoyable, and effective ways to relieve stress and

keep mental fitness. Currently, tabletop hockey has

been a popular leisure activity in hotels,

entertainment venues, night markets and households,

providing a pleasurable and relaxing form of

entertainment while promoting interpersonal

interaction. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has

necessitated social distancing, increasing the trend

toward individual leisure. Consequently, games that

previously required multiple participants have

evolved into formats suitable for solo play. Despite

this evolution, there are currently no automatic

tabletop hockey products available on the market,

warranting an investigation into this product’s

potential market and commercial feasibility.

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6976-6640

Therefore, this study has three primary purposes.

First, it utilizes signal and sensor module applications

to design an automatic tabletop hockey product

prototype. Second, it conducts an in-depth practical

investigation to assess the commercial feasibility of

the automatic tabletop hockey product prototype from

the perspective of leisure activities. Third, it employs

an experimental design involving young elementary

school children to evaluate the experiential value of

this product, with a focus on mental fitness. The

anticipated contribution of this study is not only to

satisfy the modern demand for leisure and

entertainment but also to potentially open new

business prospects.

1.1 An Automatic Tabletop Hockey

Product Prototype with a Sensor

Module

To reduce costs, an infrared positioning sensor

module was used along with a self-built XY platform

Gau, L., Hung, C., Yang, C., Liu, T. and Lin, S.

Sensor Module Application in the Design of an Automatic Tabletop Hockey Product Prototype for Leisure Activities and Mental Fitness.

DOI: 10.5220/0013014300003828

Paper published under CC license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)

In Proceedings of the 12th International Conference on Sport Sciences Research and Technology Support (icSPORTS 2024), pages 211-217

ISBN: 978-989-758-719-1; ISSN: 2184-3201

211

to control the striker. The infrared positioning sensor

module receives infrared data and transmits it to the

MCU (Microcontroller Unit) via I2C (Inter-

Integrated Circuit) communication. After processing

the data through a coordinate transformation

algorithm, stepper motors drive the XY platform to

adjust the position of the striker, enabling striking and

defensive actions.

An available small air hockey table (70

centimeters long, 36 centimeters wide) was purchased

online to be modified for this project. The installation

height for the infrared positioning module was

calculated based on this module’s resolution of

1024×768 pixels and its field of view of 33 degrees

horizontally and 23 degrees vertically (Figure 1). To

capture the entire table, the module needs to be

mounted at a height of at least 118 centimeters

(Figure 1). Each pixel corresponds to approximately

68 millimeters on the tabletop surface, allowing for

precise tracking of the puck's movement.

Figure 1: The installation for the infrared positioning

module.

The infrared positioning system exhibits several

limitations and calibration requirements. First, it

needs to be calibrated after installation to ensure

accuracy, as potential sources of measuring errors can

arise from obstructions or interference from other

infrared sources. Additionally, because the infrared

tracking puck requires the module to be installed

above the table, signal interference from the player

can occasionally occur. Despite these challenges, the

system's high refresh rate of up to 26Hz minimizes

dynamic response limitations, enabling accurate

tracking of fast-moving pucks during gameplay.

To enable the infrared positioning module to

detect the puck's position, an infrared light and a

button battery were added above the puck as a

tracking point. Due to the added weight, a 110V fan

was used as the air source through the holes in the

table to ensure the puck can float properly. In terms

of battery autonomy, using a CR2032 battery with a

220-ohm resistor can power the infrared LED for

approximately 17 hours, providing sufficient energy

for extended playtime. However, switching to a

lighter CR1620 battery enhances the puck's hovering

effect due to its reduced weight but limits the

playtime to around 5 hours, offering a trade-off

between performance and battery longevity.

The infrared positioning module tracks the puck's

position, sending signals to the microcontroller,

which calculates the puck's position in terms of

movement direction and speed. The microcontroller

then commands the carriage motor to move the

striker. When the puck approaches, its path is

predicted, and the striker is moved to the strike point

(Figure 2).

Figure 2: Signal communication for the puck position to the

striker movement.

The microcontroller used is the Renesas

RX62T6DDFM from the RX600 series, with a

maximum operating speed of 80MHz (Renesas, 2014,

2010). It features a 32-bit processor with Floating

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Point Unit (FPU), effectively handling the high-speed

algorithms required for motor control, making it

suitable for computing the position of the puck and

controlling the motor. The RX62T's built-in Serial

Peripheral Interface (SPI) and Inter-Integrated

Circuit, I2C, are used for communication between the

infrared positioning module and the stepper motor

driver.

The striker is mounted on the XY platform and

can move freely, allowing it to engage in defense,

striking, and attacking the puck that is about to stop.

Unlike a passive pad that merely reflects the puck, the

striker actively performs a “strike back” action. It has

a range of motion of approximately 22 centimeters

along the Y-axis and can reach speeds of up to 75

centimeters per second. In this game, the player's

objective is to send the puck in such a way that it

passes the striker and reaches the opposite end of the

table.

1.2 Leisure Experiences in Playing

Tabletop Hockey

A traditional tabletop hockey game is typically played

by two people as a fun leisure activity. An automatic

tabletop hockey device with a sensor module, if

introduced to the market, could provide a new and

varied experience. This innovation has the potential

to enhance the overall enjoyment and experience of

playing tabletop hockey in multiple ways.

The concept of the "Experience Economy,"

introduced by Pine and Gilmore in 1999 (Gilmore &

Pine, 2007), suggests that economic development has

evolved through four stages: Agrarian, Industrial,

Service, and now, Experience Economy. This latest

phase focuses on the user experience, emphasizing

the creation of memorable and immersive

experiences. The Experience Economy categorizes

experiences into four realms: Entertainment,

Education, Esthetic, and Escapist (4E). These realms

vary in the level of customer engagement and their

connection to the surrounding environment, ranging

from passive absorption to active participation. In the

context of tabletop hockey, this leisure activity

primarily falls within the Entertainment and

Education realms, offering both enjoyment and active

learning experiences.

Experiential Marketing (Schmitt, 1999) is a

strategy that emphasizes the sensory, emotional,

cognitive, and relational dimensions of consumer

experiences. It involves creating memorable

experiences that resonate with consumers, often

through engaging activities. For tabletop hockey,

players experience joy and a sense of achievement,

which strengthens their emotional bond with the

product. Additionally, the game's strategic and skill-

based elements engage players cognitively,

promoting problem-solving and creative thinking.

This blend of emotional and intellectual engagement

not only makes the game more appealing but also

provides educational value. Together, the leisure

experience and experiential marketing create a rich,

multifaceted consumer experience, enhancing mental

fitness and life quality.

In comparing traditional and automatic tabletop

hockey, the experience theory highlights distinct

differences in user engagement and experience.

Traditional tabletop hockey relies on manual control

and real-life opponents, emphasizing interpersonal

interaction. In contrast, automatic tabletop hockey

integrates advanced technology, such as infrared

sensors and stepper motors, to automate gameplay

(Mena, Ruiz, Ortiz, & Andaluz, 2018). This

technological integration enhances the entertainment

value by introducing a unique, interactive element

that simulates competition against a machine, suitable

for solo play. While the automatic version requires

more maintenance and incurs higher costs, it provides

a distinct, modernized experience that could appeal to

tech-savvy consumers seeking innovative leisure

activities, then potentially increasing user

engagement through novelty and excitement.

2 RESEARCH METHODS

This study employed a mixed-method research design

to evaluate the effectiveness of the potential

automatic tabletop hockey product, incorporating

interviews, observations, and surveys. Interviews

with potential users, such as night market vendors,

explored commercial potential, user interest, and

market challenges, while elementary school students

participated in observational and survey-based

experiments comparing traditional and automatic

versions of the game. The experiential value of the

product was measured using a tailored experience

value scale, assessing dimensions like entertainment,

escape, education, self-esteem, and social interaction,

supported by qualitative observations of gameplay

dynamics and engagement.

2.1 Research Design

This study employed multiple research methods to

evaluate the effectiveness of the automatic tabletop

hockey product prototype, including interviews,

observations, and surveys. Interviews with potential

Sensor Module Application in the Design of an Automatic Tabletop Hockey Product Prototype for Leisure Activities and Mental Fitness

213

users such as night market vendors were conducted to

assess the feasibility of this innovative product. The

semi-structured interviews were guided by a set of

questions focusing on the commercial potential, user

interest, and market expectations. Additionally, the

interviews explored opinions on the appropriate

pricing range and potential market challenges.

2.2 Observational and Survey Data

Collection

Observations and surveys were integral components

of an experimental design involving ten elementary

school students, with parental consent. The students

participated in playing both traditional and automatic

versions of tabletop hockey (Figure 3). Observational

notes were taken as students took turns playing.

Specifically, during the sessions with the automatic

product prototype, observations focused on capturing

data related to product features, gameplay dynamics,

user engagement, and interaction patterns. After the

play sessions, all ten students completed a valid

questionnaire and were divided into two groups of

five for interviews, where they provided feedback on

their experiences.

Figure 3: Play both traditional and automatic versions of

tabletop hockey.

2.3 Measurement Tools

Drawing on the theories of experience economy

(Gilmore & Pine, 2007) and experiential marketing

(Schmitt, 1999), the experiential value of playing the

automatic tabletop hockey product prototype was

measured using a tailored version of the experience

value scale. This scale, based on previous research

(Bouchet, Bodet, Bernache-Assollant, & Kada, 2011;

Brakus, Schmitt, & Zarantonello, 2009; Gau, Dung,

& Huang, 2015), assesses five dimensions of user

experience: Entertainment, Escape, Education, Self-

Esteem, and Social Interaction. The questionnaire

used a Likert scale ranging from 1 (strongly disagree)

to 5 (strongly agree) to measure responses.

Additionally, observation sheets were designed to

document specific aspects of gameplay and

interaction during the study. Separate sheets were

used for manual and automatic gameplay, recording

the number of matches, techniques or strategies used,

player interest levels, and interaction patterns. These

observations provided qualitative insights into the

product's performance and user engagement, offering

a comprehensive view of the product's experiential

value and market potential.

3 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

This study evaluated the performance and feasibility

of an automatic tabletop hockey product prototype,

focusing on its lateral movement, reaction speed, and

accuracy. While the product showed strong potential,

challenges related to portability and incomplete

automation were identified. Interviews with night

market vendors revealed mixed feedback: some saw

market potential in the game's novelty, while others

raised concerns about cost, maintenance, and limited

social interaction. Surveys and interviews with upper

elementary students compared the manual and

automatic versions, with the manual version favoured

for its interactivity and social engagement, and the

automatic version appreciated for its novelty and

strategic elements, fostering mental fitness and

creativity. The following sections provide further

details.

3.1 Product Performance Observation

3.1.1 Movement Speed

The movement speed highlights efficiency of the

striker’s X-axis and Y-axis movements. The device

covers a distance of 34 centimetres among the X axis

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movement in approximately 0.47 seconds. It has a Y-

axis range of 22 centimetres and can reach speeds of

up to 75 centimetres per second.

3.1.2 Response Times of the System

This section explains device response time to puck

movements. The system starts predicting and reacting

0.15 seconds after the puck is hit. In other words, it

takes approximately 0.15 seconds for the system to

“take a decision” and to generate corresponding

control signals. An additional 0.3 seconds (at most) is

required for the striker to reach the demanded

defensive position. In total, the system responds and

moves the striker within 0.45 seconds.

3.1.3 Accuracy Rate

The accuracy rate refers to the proportion of

successful hits by the striker when attempting to make

contact with the puck. A successful hit means the

striker prevents the puck from bypassing it and

reaching the end of the table. In actual tests, the

machine achieved an accuracy rate of about 77% per

minute, meaning that, on average, the striker

successfully intercepted the puck in 77% of attempts

during a one-minute interval of continuous gameplay.

This method measures performance over time,

reflecting the striker's effectiveness in ongoing, timed

gameplay rather than being based on the number of

strikes or reaching a specific score.

3.1.4 Market Potential and Design

Limitations

In terms of commercial viability and installation, the

sensor module’s signal application in the device

design of an automatic tabletop hockey is workable,

engaging the participants into playing involvement.

The current design of the automatic tabletop hockey

product prototype shows promising market potential.

However, due to the requirement of installing the

infrared positioning module at a height of 118 cm

(Figure 1), the product may need to be fixed in a

specific location, such as a recreation room, rather

than being portable. Additionally, the costs associated

with installation and maintenance could be a concern

for potential buyers.

3.1.5 User Experience

The playing experience offers a sense of novelty,

achievement, and the convenience of being able to

play alone. However, the automation of the game is

not fully comprehensive. For instance, if the puck

bypasses the striker, it must be manually repositioned,

indicating that the product's automation level is not

yet complete at the current situation of the device.

3.2 Interviews About the Feasibility of

the Automatic Tabletop Hockey

3.2.1 Supportive Perspectives

Several vendors believe that automatic tabletop

hockey has potential market feasibility, particularly in

night markets, which attract a diverse range of tourists

and visitors. The novelty of the game could draw

interest, especially from those seeking new and

unique experiences. Vendors noted that night market

visitors often look for engaging activities beyond

food, and an automated game could offer a fresh

entertainment option. Some vendors highlighted that

the introduction of such a unique game might stand

out in an environment typically filled with traditional

offerings, potentially appealing to families and tech-

savvy individuals. This innovation could enhance the

marketability of their stalls and attract a broader

audience.

3.2.2 Skeptical Perspectives

Conversely, some vendors expressed reservations

about the product's suitability for night markets,

which traditionally feature games and food with a

more classic appeal. They argued that the automated

aspect might not resonate well with the typical night

market atmosphere, which thrives on interactivity and

communal experiences. Concerns were raised about

the game's lack of social interaction, as many visitors

come to the night market with friends and prefer

activities that facilitate group participation.

Additionally, there were worries about the cost and

maintenance associated with such a product, which

could outweigh its potential benefits and fail to attract

enough interest to justify the investment.

3.3 Survey and Interviews About the

Experiential Values

3.3.1 Preference for Manual Tabletop

Hockey

The manual tabletop hockey generally received

higher ratings from participants from upper

elementary school students. The key factors

contributing to this preference include the game's

high level of interactivity, which allows for direct,

face-to-face competition with peers, enhancing the

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fun and challenge of the game. Additionally, the

manual version requires players to react quickly and

develop real-time strategies, aligning with the

cognitive development stage of these children and

enriching their gameplay experience. This age group

also values social interaction, preferring activities that

allow them to engage and bond with their peers,

making the manual version particularly appealing as

it fulfils their social needs.

3.3.2 Preference for Automatic Tabletop

Hockey

On the other hand, the automatic tabletop hockey

version intrigued the students with its novelty and the

opportunity it provided for strategic thinking and

learning. The newness of the automated game

sparked curiosity and encouraged students to

cognitively explore strategies to beat the machine,

fostering a sense of creative thinking. One student

noted the uniqueness of the experience, highlighting

how it prompted them to think about overcoming the

automated opponent. Additionally, while some

students mentioned a preference for the social

interaction offered by the manual version, they also

expressed interest in sharing their experiences in the

automatic version with friends and family, suggesting

that the novelty of the game provided a fresh topic for

social interaction. This novelty factor, combined with

the technological aspect of the game, made the

automatic tabletop hockey an exciting new

experience for the children.

3.3.3 Mental Fitness

The survey and interviews reveal that both manual

and automatic tabletop hockey games contribute to

mental fitness among upper elementary school

students, albeit in different ways. The manual version

enhances mental fitness by fostering real-time

strategic thinking and quick reflexes, which align

with the children's cognitive development stage. In

contrast, the automatic version stimulates mental

fitness by introducing novelty and requiring students

to devise strategies to compete against an automated

opponent. This element of technological novelty

encourages creative thinking and problem-solving.

Furthermore, the excitement of experiencing

something new promotes social interaction, as

students are eager to share their unique experiences

with peers and family.

4 CONCLUSIONS AND FUTURE

WORK

This study successfully achieved its three primary

objectives. First, the design of an automatic tabletop

hockey product prototype using sensor module’s

signal applications demonstrated its potential for

enhancing gameplay through automation. Second, the

investigation into the product's commercial feasibility

highlighted its appeal in the leisure market. Third, the

experimental evaluation with young elementary

school children revealed that the product offers

significant experiential value, particularly in fostering

mental fitness through strategic thinking and

interactive play. Overall, the findings suggest that the

automatic tabletop hockey product has both the

technical and market potential to succeed, provided

that the challenges related to production costs,

difficult installation, and complete automation level

are effectively managed.

An important area for future research or future

work is the potential to introduce remote multiplayer

functionality, allowing two players to compete over

the internet. In this mode, one player could control

offensive strikes while the other manages the

movement of the defensive striker. This option could

enhance the game's appeal by providing a more

interactive and social experience, even for players

who are not physically together. Implementing this

feature would require networked control systems and

additional software development to synchronize

actions between remote players. This enhancement

could significantly boost the game's appeal and

expand its market potential by enabling a wider range

of gameplay options for users who are not physically

in the same location.

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