Model road race game with sensor mats

Abstract

A method and apparatus for determining the location of a particular model vehicle. Position detector elements are placed around a game area where the vehicles will travel. Transmissions between the vehicle and a position detector element it passes allow the ID of one to be sent to the other. Then either the position detector element or the vehicle transmits a message to a controller with both the ID of the vehicle, and the ID of the position detector element, allowing the determination of which vehicle is where.

1 . A method for detecting a model vehicle, comprising: 
 providing a plurality of position detection elements arranged in an area where said model vehicle will pass;    providing a position detection element ID for each of said position detection elements;    providing a vehicle ID for said model vehicle;    transmitting between said model vehicle and said position detection element one of said IDs; and    transmitting said vehicle ID and said position detection element ID to a vehicle controller.    
   
   
       2 . The method of  claim 1  wherein said position detection elements are sensors which receive a vehicle ID transmitted by said model vehicle.  
   
   
       3 . The method of  claim 1  wherein said model vehicle detects a position element ID and transmits the position detection element ID along with the vehicle ID to said vehicle controller.  
   
   
       4 . A receiver for detecting a proximate model vehicle, comprising: 
 at least two detectors;    a memory for storing an ID of said receiver;    a transmitter for transmitting said ID of said receiver and data received from a passing model vehicle to a remote controller;    a substrate for holding said detectors, memory and transmitter, said substrate allowing said receiver to be placed anywhere on a race surface, without the need to connect to any track or roadway.    
   
   
       5 . The receiver of  claim 4  where said detectors are infrared detectors.  
   
   
       6 . The receiver of  claim 4  wherein said transmitter is a wireless transmitter.