HockeyJACK [automated air hockey player]

Interactive electronic toys and games have already become part of our daily lives. Why not the same with the popular table games? JACK'D Inc. is developing a system that will enable air hockey fanatics, at reasonably low cost, to hone their skills against a mechanical opponent. This system, known as the HockeyJACK, will enable players to practice at any time of the day, anywhere, as long as they have access to an air hockey table.HockeyJACK is a PC-based system. Optical sensors attached to an air hockey table detect puck movement and forward this information to the PC. The computer will then process the data and activate a mallet blocker according to an intelligent program designed to respond accordingly. Also included is an arm sensor feedback mechanism to ensure accurate positioning of the arm as well as provide some measure of safety for the user.