Gaming chairs with enhanced visibility lighting

A lighted gaming chair including a chair and enhanced visibility lighting. The chair has a seat portion and a back portion mounted with respect to the seat portion. The enhanced visibility lighting is attached to the chair. The enhanced visibility lighting includes a light source and a diffusion layer that substantially covers the light source. The light source has a first width. The diffusion layer has a second width that is more than two times the first width. Light emitted from the light source passes through the diffusion layer.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to gaming furniture. More particularly, the invention relates to gaming chairs with enhanced visibility lighting.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Video games are a popular form of entertainment. To enhance the experience associated with video games and/or to enhance the performance while playing video games, chairs have been marketed to include sound and/or vibrations. A variety of multimedia furniture is marketed by Ace Bayou Corporation, the assignee of this patent application.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An embodiment of the invention is directed to a lighted gaming chair including a chair and enhanced visibility lighting. The chair has a seat portion and a back portion mounted with respect to the seat portion. The enhanced visibility lighting is attached to the chair. The enhanced visibility lighting includes a light source and a diffusion layer that substantially covers the light source. The light source has a first width. The diffusion layer has a second width that is more than two times the first width. Light emitted from the light source passes through the diffusion layer.

Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a method of illuminating a gaming chair. A gaming chair is provided with enhanced visibility lighting attached thereto. The enhanced visibility lighting includes a light source and a diffusion layer that substantially covers the light source. The light source has a first width. The diffusion layer has a second width that is more than two times the first width. Light is emitted from the light source. The enhanced visibility lighting causes the emitted light to appear as the emitted light is emitted from the light source having the second width.

Another embodiment of the invention is directed to lighted gaming furniture including furniture and enhanced visibility lighting. A person uses the furniture when playing a video game on a video gaming system. The enhanced visibility lighting is attached to the furniture. The enhanced visibility lighting includes a light source and a diffusion layer that substantially covers the light source. The light source has a first width. The diffusion layer has a second width that is more than two times the first width. Light emitted from the light source passes through the diffusion layer.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

An embodiment of the invention is directed to a gaming chair with enhanced visibility lighting as illustrated at10inFIGS. 1 and 2. The enhanced visibility lighting thereby accents the shape and style of the lighted gaming chair and provides an aesthetic upgrade to the user experience.

The enhanced visibility lighting makes light that is emitted from individual spaced-apart light sources appear as the light is emitted from a single continuous light source. The enhanced visibility lighting also makes light emitted from a light source having a first width appear as though the light is emitted from a light source having a second width that is larger than the first width.

Based upon the preceding, “enhanced visibility” means that the ability of persons playing video games to see the light emitted from furniture on which the person is sitting is enhanced to thereby increase the immersiveness of the gaming experience. The enhanced visibility lighting also increases the ability of persons who are watching video gaming to see light emitting from furniture on which the person playing the video games is sitting to increase enjoyment associated with watching the video gaming.

A significant benefit of the enhanced visibility lighting30is that the enhanced visibility lighting30achieves the preceding benefits using the same amount of energy as the prior art lighted gaming chairs such as illustrated inFIG. 19. This feature is particularly important when the components of the lighted gaming chair10such as the lighting and the sound are powered by batteries.

The enhanced visibility lighting outlines at least a portion of the lighted gaming chair10. In certain embodiments, the enhanced visibility lighting30substantially outlines side and upper surfaces of the lighted gaming chair10such as illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2.

The lighted gaming chair10on which the enhanced visibility lighting30is used may assume a variety of forms using the concepts of the invention. In one exemplary embodiment, the lighted gaming chair10includes a seat portion20, a back portion22and arms24as illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2.

The lighted gaming chair10may be covered with a variety of materials having a variety of colors depending on the market in which the lighted gaming chair10is intended to be sold such as upper, moderate and value priced. Examples of materials that may be used to cover the surfaces of the lighted gaming chair10include leather, vinyl and fabric.

In certain embodiments, the enhanced visibility lighting30is mounted on the front surface of the right arm24to extend from a lower surface thereof to an upper surface thereof. As used herein, front is a side of the back portion22that is typically in contact by a person sitting on the lighted gaming chair10.

The enhanced visibility lighting30is mounted on an upper surface of the right arm24to extend from a front edge thereof to a back edge thereof. As used herein, upper is a direction away from a horizontal surface on which the lighted gaming chair10is placed.

The enhanced visibility lighting30is mounted on the front surface of the back portion20proximate a right edge thereof to extend from a lower edge thereof to an upper edge thereof. The enhanced visibility lighting30is mounted on the upper surface of the back portion20to extend from a right edge thereof to a left edge thereof. In other embodiments, the enhanced visibility lighting30is mounted on the front surface of the back portion20proximate the upper edge thereof and extends from the right edge thereof to the left edge thereof.

The enhanced visibility lighting30is mounted on the front surface of the back portion20proximate a left edge thereof to extend from an upper edge thereof to a lower edge thereof. The enhanced visibility lighting30is mounted on an upper surface of the left arm24to extend from a back edge thereof to a front edge thereof. The enhanced visibility lighting30is mounted on the front surface of the left side arm24to extend from an upper surface thereof to a lower surface thereof.

As illustrated inFIG. 3, the enhanced visibility lighting30generally includes a light source32. In certain embodiments, the light source32has an elongated configuration and includes a plurality of light emitting elements such as LEDs. The light source32is mounted to a frame surface of the lighted gaming chair10. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that the light source32may be fabricated from alternative materials using the concepts of the invention.

A diffusion layer34is placed over the light source32. The diffusion layer34causes the light emitted from the light source32to be more diffuse and spread out to thereby enhance the visibility of the lighting. The diffusion layer34also masks the individual bulbs in the light source32to make the illumination appear to be relatively continuous in contrast to the light emitted from the individual bulbs in the light source32.

In certain embodiments, the diffusion layer34is fabricated from a translucent material. An example of one suitable translucent material for fabricating the diffusion layer34is EPE foam. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that the diffusion layer34may be fabricated from alternative materials using the concepts of the invention.

In certain embodiments, the diffusion layer34has an at least partially semicircular outer surface as illustrated inFIG. 3. The thickness of the diffusion layer34may be selected based upon a variety of factors such as the light transmissiveness of the material used to fabricate the diffusion layer34and the desired width of the enhanced visibility lighting30.

The diffusion layer34has a width that is more than two times the width of light source32. In other embodiments, the width of the diffusion layer34is more than about five times the width of the light source32. In still other embodiments, the width of the diffusion layer34is between about five and about twenty times the width of the light source32.

The semicircular profile of the diffusion layer34also enhances the ability to see light emitted from the light source32from more directions as compared to if the light was emitted from along the surface of the lighted gaming chair10. This feature is particularly beneficial to persons who are not directly in front of the lighted gaming chair10.

Because of the greatly increased width of the light emitted from the enhanced visibility lighting30of this invention compared to the width of the LED light source on the prior art gaming chairs such as is illustrated inFIG. 19, the lighted gaming chair10with the enhanced visibility lighting30of this invention facilitates provides a more immersive experience when playing video games.

A masking effect can be further increased by placing a masking layer36over the diffusion layer34. In certain embodiments, the masking layer36may include a gridded mesh layer37with a two-way reflective fabric39(light-transmissive retroreflective fabric) in between the gridded mesh layer37and the diffusion layer34. The masking layer36may be selected to enhance the aesthetics of lighting while minimizing a decrease in the lumens transmitted therethrough. The masking layer36may also increase the durability of the lighted gaming chair10with enhanced visibility lighting30because the masking layer is more durable than the diffusion layer34. Transmission of the light through the diffusion layer34and the masking layer36is illustrated by arrow38inFIG. 3.

In certain embodiments, the mounting of the enhanced visibility lighting30to the lighted gaming chair10enables a single light source to extend all the way around the lighted gaming chair10. Such a configuration is desirable because it reduces complexity associated with connecting the components and controlling illumination of the lights.

In one configuration, the seat portion22and the back portion20of the lighted gaming chair10are attached together during the manufacturing process. In other embodiments of the lighted gaming chair10, the light source used on the back portion20is separate from the light source used on the arms24. This configuration may facilitate shipping the lighted gaming chair10in a more compact form with the back portion20detached from the seat portion22and the arms24.

The invention thereby provides a seamless and attractive lighting finish that is brightly illuminated. The lights may be selected so that the lights are operable in a variety of colors. An example of one range of colors in which the lights may be illuminated includes red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. The lights may be operable in a single color at a time or may be operable in a gradient of colors with various patterns.

The lighted gaming chair10may include at least one speaker (not shown) that is capable of emitting sounds associated with the video game being played. In certain embodiments, the lighted gaming chair10includes a plurality of speakers.

The lighted gaming chair10may also include a vibration mechanism (not shown) that is capable of emitting vibrations that are associated with the video game being played. An example of one such device that is capable of emitting vibrations is a subwoofer. The vibration emitting mechanism may be linked to the at least one speaker, a controller or the gaming system.

The enhanced visibility lighting30may be operable in a variety of modes of operation. The user may utilize a variety of mechanisms to switch between the modes of operation. An example of one mechanism for controlling the operation of the enhanced visibility lighting10is an in-line switch that enables a person using the lighted gaming chair10to change at least one of a lighting pattern and a lighting color. Alternatively or additionally, the enhanced visibility lighting30may be controlled using an application on a mobile phone or using a webpage.

The enhanced visibility lighting30is connected to a power source and a controller. The controller controls illumination of the enhanced visibility lighting30. The controller may also include the ability for the person playing the video game to change colors and/or patterns at which the lights are illuminated. Such control may be directly changed on the object or may be remotely controlled on a wireless remote or using an application on a mobile phone.

In other embodiments, the controller may be linked to the video game unit and/or the computer on which the video game is being played. Using such a configuration enables the enhanced visibility lighting30to be illuminated to correspond with aspects of the video game. The link between the controller and the video game unit and/or the computer may be wired or wireless.

Another embodiment of the invention is directed to office style gaming chairs110that are intended to be used by persons who are playing video games. The office style gaming chairs are illustrated at110inFIGS. 4 and 5.

The enhanced visibility lighting130outlines at least a portion of the office style gaming chair110. In certain embodiments, the enhanced visibility lighting130substantially outlines side and upper surfaces of the office style gaming chair110such as illustrated inFIGS. 4 and 5.

The office style gaming chair110generally includes a back portion120, a seat portion122and a base portion124. The office style gaming chair110may also include at least one arm126.

In certain embodiments, the back portion120is oriented generally transverse to the seat portion122. An orientation of the back portion120with respect to the seat portion122may be adjustable. In certain embodiments, the angle between the back portion120and the seat portion122may be between about 60 degrees and about 180 degrees.

The office style gaming chair110may be covered with a variety of materials having a variety of colors depending on the market in which the office style gaming chair110is intended to be sold such as upper, moderate and value priced. Examples of materials that may be used to cover the surfaces of the office style gaming chair110include leather, vinyl and fabric.

The base portion124may include a plurality of wheels that are mounted in a spaced-apart configuration. The wheels enable the office style gaming chair110to be rolled to a use location while a person is sitting on the office style gaming chair110.

The office style gaming chair110includes the enhanced visibility lighting130positioned on a surface thereof that are capable of being selectively illuminated while the person is playing the video game while sitting on the office style gaming chair110.

In certain embodiments, the enhanced visibility lighting130is mounted on the front surface of the seat portion122to extend from a lower surface thereof to an upper surface thereof. As used herein, front is a side of the back portion122that is typically in contact by a person sitting on the office style gaming chair110.

The enhanced visibility lighting130is mounted on an upper surface of the seat portion122to extend from a front edge thereof to a back edge thereof. As used herein, upper is a direction away from a horizontal surface on which the office style gaming chair110is placed.

The enhanced visibility lighting130is mounted on the front surface of the back portion120proximate a right edge thereof to extend from a lower edge thereof to an upper edge thereof. The enhanced visibility lighting130is mounted on the upper surface of the back portion120to extend from a right edge thereof to a left edge thereof. The enhanced visibility lighting130is mounted on the front surface of the back portion120proximate a left edge thereof to extend from an upper edge thereof to a lower edge thereof.

The enhanced visibility lighting130is mounted on an upper surface of the seat portion122to extend from a back edge thereof to a front edge thereof. The enhanced visibility lighting130is mounted on the front surface of the seat portion122to extend from an upper surface thereof to a lower surface thereof.

A significant benefit of the enhanced visibility lighting130is that the enhanced visibility lighting130does not consume any additional energy as compared to the prior art light gaming chair such as illustrated inFIG. 19. This feature is particularly important when the components of the office style gaming chair110such as the lighting and the sound are powered by batteries.

Similar to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3, the enhanced visibility lighting130generally includes a light source132as illustrated inFIG. 6. In certain embodiments, the light source132has a plurality of light emitting elements such as LEDs that are mounted to a surface of the office style gaming chair110. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that the light source132may be fabricated from alternative materials using the concepts of the invention.

A diffusion layer134is placed over the light source132. The diffusion layer134causes the light emitted from the light source132to be more diffuse and spread out to thereby enhance the visibility of the lighting. The diffusion layer134also masks the individual bulbs in the light source132to make the illumination appear to be relatively continuous in contrast to the light emitted from the individual bulbs in the light source132.

In certain embodiments, the diffusion layer134is fabricated from a translucent material. An example of one suitable translucent material for fabricating the diffusion layer134is EPE foam. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that the diffusion layer134may be fabricated from alternative materials using the concepts of the invention.

In certain embodiments, the diffusion layer134has an at least partially semicircular outer surface. The diffusion layer134has a width that is more than two times the width of light source132. In other embodiments, the width of the diffusion layer132is more than about five times the width of the light source132. In still other embodiments, the width of the diffusion layer134is between about five and about twenty times the width of the light source132.

In certain embodiments, the mounting of the enhanced visibility lighting130to the office style gaming chair110enables a single light source132to extend around the office style gaming chair110. Such a configuration is desirable because it reduces complexity associated with connecting the components and controlling illumination of the lights.

In other embodiments of the office style gaming chair110, the light source132used on the back portion120is separate from the light source used on the seat portion122. This configuration may facilitate shipping the office style gaming chair110in a more compact form with the back portion120detached from the seat portion122.

Because of the greatly increased width of the light emitted from the enhanced visibility lighting130of this invention compared to the width of the light sources on the prior art gaming chairs such as is illustrated inFIG. 19, the office style gaming chair110with the enhanced visibility lighting130of this invention provides a more immersive experience when playing video games.

A masking effect can be further increased by placing a masking layer136over the diffusion layer134. In certain embodiments, the masking layer136may include a gridded mesh layer137with a two-way reflective fabric139(light-transmissive retroreflective fabric) in between the gridded mesh layer137and the diffusion layer139. The masking layer136not only enhances the aesthetics of lighting while minimizing a decrease in the lumens transmitted therethrough. The masking layer136may also increase the durability of the office style gaming chair110with enhanced visibility lighting130because the masking layer136is more durable than the diffusion layer134. Transmission of the light through the diffusion layer134and the masking layer136is illustrated by arrow138inFIG. 6.

The invention thereby provides a seamless and attractive lighting finish that is brightly illuminated. The lights may be selected so that the lights are operable in a variety of colors. An example of one range of colors in which the lights may be illuminated includes red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. The lights may be operable in a single color at a time or may be operable in a gradient of colors.

The office style gaming chair110may include at least one speaker (not shown) that is capable of emitting sounds associated with the video game being played. In certain embodiments, the office style gaming chair110includes a plurality of speakers.

The office style gaming chair110may also include a vibration mechanism (not shown) that is capable of emitting vibrations that are associated with the video game being played. An example of one such device that is capable of emitting vibrations is a subwoofer. The vibration emitting mechanism may be linked to the at least one speaker, a controller or the gaming system.

The enhanced visibility lighting130may be operable in a variety of modes of operation. The user may utilize a variety of mechanisms to switch between the modes of operation. An example of one mechanism for controlling the operation of the enhanced visibility lighting130is an in-line switch that enables a person using the office style gaming chair110to change at least one of a lighting pattern and a lighting color. Alternatively or additionally, the enhanced visibility lighting130may be controlled using an application on a mobile phone or using a webpage.

Using a manner that is similar to the manner described with respect to the preceding embodiment of the invention, the enhanced visibility lighting130are connected to a power source and a controller. The controller controls illumination of the enhanced visibility lighting150. The controller may also include the ability for the person playing the video game to change colors and/or patterns at which the lights are illuminated. Such control may be directly changed on the object or may be remotely controlled on a wireless remote or using an application on a mobile phone.

In other embodiments, the controller may be linked to the video game unit and/or the computer on which the video game is being played. Using such a configuration enables the enhanced visibility lighting130to be illuminated to correspond with aspects of the video game. The link between the controller and the video game unit and/or the computer may be wired or wireless.

Another configuration of the enhanced visibility lighting200is illustrated on a gaming chair202inFIG. 7. This embodiment of the enhanced visibility lighting200provides the same benefits as the enhanced visibility lighting described with respect toFIGS. 1-3. However, an upper surface of the enhanced visibility lighting200is generally flat. Such a configuration is contrasted from the curved upper surface of the enhanced visibility lighting200illustrated inFIG. 3. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that the concepts of the invention may be adapted for use with the enhanced visibility lighting having an outer surface with a curvature that is more than the generally flat configuration illustrated inFIGS. 9 and 10and less than the configuration illustrated inFIG. 3.

The lighted gaming chair202may have a variety of shapes using the concepts of the invention and may be covered with a variety of materials having a variety of colors depending on the market in which the lighted gaming chair202is intended to be sold such as upper, moderate and value priced. Examples of materials that may be used to cover the surfaces of the lighted gaming chair202include leather, vinyl and fabric.

As illustrated inFIGS. 8 and 9, the enhanced visibility lighting200generally includes a light source252. In certain embodiments, the light source252has an elongated configuration and includes a plurality of light emitting elements such as LEDs. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that the light source252may be fabricated from alternative materials using the concepts of the invention. While it is illustrated that the upper surface of the enhanced visibility lighting200is generally flat, the upper surface of the light source252does not need to be generally flat as illustrated inFIGS. 8 and 9.

A diffusion layer254is placed over the light source252. The diffusion layer254causes the light emitted from the light source252to be more diffuse and spread out to thereby enhance the visibility of the lighting. The diffusion layer254also masks the individual bulbs in the light source252to make the illumination appear to be relatively continuous in contrast to the light emitted from the individual bulbs in the light source252.

In certain embodiments, the diffusion layer254is fabricated from a translucent material. An example of one suitable translucent material for fabricating the diffusion layer254is EPE foam. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that the diffusion layer254may be fabricated from alternative materials using the concepts of the invention.

In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the diffusion layer254that extends over the light source252is generally planar as illustrated inFIGS. 8 and 9. As illustrated inFIG. 9, the upper surface of the diffusion layer254may decrease in thickness for the portion of the diffusion layer94that is not over the light source252. This configuration causes the light that is transmitted to the upper surface of the enhanced visibility lighting200to have a similar intensity across the width of the enhanced visibility lighting200.

The thickness of the diffusion layer254may be selected based upon a variety of factors such as the light transmissiveness of the material used to fabricate the diffusion layer254and the desired width of the enhanced visibility lighting80.

The diffusion layer254has a width that is more than two times the width of light source252. In other embodiments, the width of the diffusion layer254is more than about three times the width of the light source252. In still other embodiments, the width of the diffusion layer254is between about five and about twenty times the width of the light source252.

In situations where the upper surface of the diffusion layer254is not flat, as illustrated inFIG. 9, the enhanced visibility lighting200may include a cover layer256that is placed over the diffusion layer254. The cover layer256may be fabricated from a generally transparent material. The upper surface of the cover layer256may be substantially flat across a width of the enhanced visibility lighting200as illustrated inFIG. 9.

Because of the greatly increased width of the light emitted from the enhanced visibility lighting200of this invention compared to the width of the LED light source on the prior art gaming chairs such as is illustrated inFIG. 19, the lighted gaming chair with the enhanced visibility lighting200of this invention provides a more immersive experience when playing video games.

A masking effect can be further increased by placing a masking layer258over the cover layer256. In certain embodiments, the masking layer258may include a gridded mesh layer with a two-way reflective fabric (light-transmissive retroreflective fabric) in between similar to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3. The masking layer258may be selected to enhance the aesthetics of lighting while minimizing a decrease in the lumens transmitted therethrough. The masking layer258may also increase the durability of the lighted gaming chair with enhanced visibility lighting200because the masking layer is more durable than the diffusion layer254.

The invention thereby provides a seamless and attractive lighting finish that is brightly illuminated. The lights may be selected so that the lights are operable in a variety of colors. An example of one range of colors in which the lights may be illuminated includes red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. The lights may be operable in a single color at a time or may be operable in a gradient of colors and animated patterns.

The lighted gaming chair202may include at least one speaker (not shown) that is capable of emitting sounds associated with the video game being played. In certain embodiments, the lighted gaming chair202includes a plurality of speakers.

The lighted gaming chair202may also include a vibration mechanism (not shown) that is capable of emitting vibrations that are associated with the video game being played. An example of one such device that is capable of emitting vibrations is a subwoofer. The vibration emitting mechanism may be linked to the at least one speaker, a controller or the gaming system.

The enhanced visibility lighting200may be operable in a variety of modes of operation. The user may utilize a variety of mechanisms to switch between the modes of operation. An example of one mechanism for controlling the operation of the enhanced visibility lighting200is an in-line switch that enables a person using the lighted gaming chair202to change at least one of a lighting pattern and a lighting color. Alternatively or additionally, the enhanced visibility lighting200may be controlled using an application on a mobile phone or using a webpage.

Using a manner that is similar to the manner described with respect to the preceding embodiments of the invention, the enhanced visibility lighting200are connected to a power source and a controller. The controller controls illumination of the enhanced visibility lighting200. The controller may also include the ability for the person playing the video game to change colors and/or patterns at which the lights are illuminated. Such control may be directly changed on the object or may be remotely controlled on a wireless remote or using an application on a mobile phone.

In other embodiments, the controller may be linked to the video game unit and/or the computer on which the video game is being played. Using such a configuration enables the enhanced visibility lighting200to be illuminated to correspond with aspects of the video game. The link between the controller and the video game unit and/or the computer may be wired or wireless.

Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a lighted chair base208for the gaming chair202illustrated inFIG. 7. The lighted chair base208may be used on a variety of styles of chairs such as the office style gaming chair110illustrated inFIGS. 4 and 5.

The lighted gaming chair202may be covered with a variety of materials having a variety of colors depending on the market in which the lighted gaming chair202is intended to be sold such as upper, moderate and value priced. Examples of materials that may be used to cover the surfaces of the lighted gaming chair202include leather, vinyl and fabric.

The lighted chair base208may have a variety of configurations using the concepts of the invention. In certain embodiments, the lighted chair base208includes a central hub210from which a plurality of legs212extend radially therefrom. In certain embodiments, there are five legs212that extend from the hub210.

While it is illustrated that each of the legs212has a similar size and shape, at least a portion of the legs212may be formed with a different size and/or shape. Similarly, while it is illustrated that a spacing between each of the legs212is approximately equal, it is possible for the legs212to extend from the hub210so that the spacing between adjacent legs212is not approximately equal.

At least a portion of the legs212has enhanced visibility lighting200associated therewith. In certain embodiments, all of the legs212have the enhanced visibility lighting200. In other embodiments, each of the legs212includes more than one of the enhanced visibility lighting200associated therewith. For example, the enhanced visibility lighting200may be provided on opposite sides of each leg212proximate an upper surface thereof.

WhileFIG. 7illustrates that the enhanced visibility lighting200extends only a portion of each leg212, in other configurations, the enhanced visibility lighting200extends substantially along a length of each length.

A benefit of positioning the enhanced visibility lighting200on the legs212proximate the hub210is that it is less likely for a person to step on the enhanced visibility lighting200while using the lighted gaming chair202. Even though the enhanced visibility lighting200is configured to resist damage resulting from a person's foot placed thereon, configuring the enhanced visibility lighting200to reduce the potential of the person's foot from contacting the enhanced visibility lighting200may be beneficial.

In certain embodiments, the enhanced visibility lighting200extends from one of the legs212onto an adjacent leg212, as illustrated inFIG. 7. Using such a configuration may reduce the separate sections of the enhanced visibility lighting200, which simplifies the wiring associated with the enhanced visibility lighting200.

The enhanced visibility lighting200generally includes LED or similar light source222as illustrated inFIG. 10. In certain embodiments, the light source222is mounted in a spaced apart configuration. The number and type of light sources222may be selected based upon a variety of factors.

A diffusion layer224is provided over at least a portion of the light source222and a diffusion layer224. In certain embodiments, the diffusion layer224substantially covers the light source222. Similar to the other embodiments described in this patent application, the diffusion layer224masks the light emitted from individual elements of the light source222such that it appears that the light is emitted from a single continuous light source as opposed to a plurality of spaced-apart lights in the light source222.

The diffusion layer224also causes the light emitted from the light source222to appear as coming from a considerably wider light source as opposed to the light source222, which have a width that is in certain embodiments less than half of the width of the diffusion layer224.

The enhanced visibility lighting200may also include an outer layer226that at least partially extends over the diffusion layer224. In certain embodiments, the outer layer226substantially covers the diffusion layer224.

The outer layer226may be fabricated from a generally transparent material. The outer layer226thereby protects the diffusion layer224from damage during use of the lighted gaming chair202. The outer layer226may be fabricated from a rubberized material. As used herein, rubberized material means that when a person places his/her foot on the enhanced visibility lighting200, the person's foot resists slipping with respect to the leg212. A thickness of the outer layer226may be selected based upon factors such as the desired width of the enhanced visibility lighting310.

Each leg212may include a channel (not shown) formed therein that is adapted to receive at least a portion of the enhanced visibility lighting200. In certain embodiments, the channel receives substantially all of the enhanced visibility lighting200such that an outer surface of the enhanced visibility lighting200is approximately in alignment with an upper surface of the leg212in which the enhanced visibility lighting200is mounted.

Mounting the enhanced visibility lighting200in this manner facilitates persons who are sitting at the lighted gaming chair202seeing light that is emitted from the enhanced visibility lighting200while at the same time protecting the enhanced visibility lighting200from damage while the lighted gaming chair202is being used such as when playing video games.

Because the lighted gaming chair202is rotatable with respect to the lighted chair base208, power for the enhanced visibility lighting200that is associated with the lighted chair base208is preferably provided through a piston230that attaches the lighted gaming chair202to the lighted chair base208.

The piston230includes an opening extending therethrough through which a piston power cord232is extended. The piston power cord232is extended through an opening234in mounting bracket236to which the piston230is attached as illustrated inFIG. 10. The piston power cord232is attached to a chair power cord240as illustrated inFIG. 11. The mounting bracket236is then attached to a lower surface of the lighted gaming chair202using a plurality of fasteners242.

Next, the lighted chair base208is attached to an end of the piston230that is opposite the lighted gaming chair202. A base plug244from the lighted chair base208is plugged into a piston power cord plug246that is opposite the lighted gaming chair202as illustrated inFIG. 12.

The base plug244and the piston power cord plug246to which the base plug244is attached are both circular. This connection thereby enables the lighted gaming chair202to freely rotate with respect to the lighted chair base208while maintaining the electrical connection between the lighted gaming chair202and the lighted chair base208so that the enhanced visibility lighting200in the lighted chair base208can remain illuminated.

The lighted gaming chair202may include at least one speaker (not shown) that is capable of emitting sounds associated with the video game being played. In certain embodiments, the lighted gaming chair202includes a plurality of speakers.

The lighted gaming chair202may also include a vibration mechanism (not shown) that is capable of emitting vibrations that are associated with the video game being played. An example of one such device that is capable of emitting vibrations is a subwoofer. The vibration emitting mechanism may be linked to the at least one speaker, a controller or the gaming system.

In use, the enhanced visibility lighting200of the lighted gaming chair202may be illuminated in a variety of colors and light patterns. Similar to the enhanced visibility lighting in the other embodiments described in this application, the configuration of the enhanced visibility lighting200not only causes the light emitted from a plurality of lighting sources to be diffused such that the light appears to be emitted from a single continuous light source but the invention also causes the light to be emitted over the width of the enhanced visibility lighting200.

Such lighting results are superior to the prior art lighted gaming chairs and furniture, which thereby increases the immersive experience of the gaming not only for the person who is playing the video game but also for persons who are watching the person who is playing the video games.

Illumination of the enhanced visibility lighting200may be synchronized with the illumination of the enhanced visibility lighting in other components such as the enhanced visibility lighting on the upper part of the lighted gaming chair, which is discussed with respect toFIGS. 1-3. Alternatively, the illumination of the enhanced visibility lighting200may be controlled separately than the other illuminated components being used while playing video games.

The enhanced visibility lighting200may be operable in a variety of modes of operation. The user may utilize a variety of mechanisms to switch between the modes of operation. An example of one mechanism for controlling the operation of the enhanced visibility lighting200is an in-line switch that enables a person using the lighted gaming chair202to change at least one of a lighting pattern and a lighting color. Alternatively or additionally, the enhanced visibility lighting200may be controlled using an application on a mobile phone or using a webpage.

Using a manner that is similar to the manner described with respect to the preceding embodiments of the invention, the enhanced visibility lighting200are connected to a power source and a controller. The controller controls illumination of the enhanced visibility lighting200. The controller may also include the ability for the person playing the video game to change colors and/or patterns at which the lights are illuminated. Such control may be directly changed on the object or may be remotely controlled on a wireless remote or using an application on a mobile phone.

In other embodiments, the controller may be linked to the video game unit and/or the computer on which the video game is being played. Using such a configuration enables the enhanced visibility lighting200to be illuminated to correspond with aspects of the video game. The link between the controller and the video game unit and/or the computer may be wired or wireless.

In addition to the two styles of chairs discussed in this application, the enhanced visibility lighting may be adapted for use in conjunction with other types of furniture, examples of which include pedestal mounted furniture, floor furniture, tables, desks, bed headboards, bed frames, sofa style seating, ottomans and office furniture. While each of the preceding items includes a frame, it is also possible to use the enhanced visibility lighting in conjunction with frameless furniture such as bean bag chairs.

An example of one such alternative furniture object is a lighted gaming desk300, which is illustrated inFIG. 13. The lighted gaming desk300generally includes a desk top302and a desk base304that is attached to the desk top302to maintain the desk top302in a generally horizontal orientation above a ground surface.

A person of skill in the art will appreciate that the desk top302may assume a variety of configuration using the embodiments of the invention. In certain embodiments, the desk top302has a generally rectangular configuration as illustrated inFIG. 13.

Similarly, the desk base304may have a variety of configurations using the embodiments of the invention. As illustrated inFIG. 13, proximate the right edge of the lighted gaming desk300, the desk base304in in the configuration of a generally vertically oriented post with a support at a lower end thereof to stabilize the lighted gaming desk300.

The desk base304proximate a left edge of the lighted gaming desk300includes two vertically oriented supports between which are mounted a plurality of shelves. While not illustrated, the desk base304may include at least one drawer.

The desk top302and the desk base304may be fabricated from and/or covered with a variety of materials having a variety of colors depending on the market in which the lighted gaming desk300is intended to be sold such as upper, moderate and value priced.

The enhanced visibility lighting310may have a generally circular profile as illustrated inFIG. 14. Proximate a center of the enhanced visibility lighting310, LED or similar light source312are mounted in a spaced apart configuration. The number and type of light source312may be selected based upon a variety of factors.

A diffusion layer314is provided over at least a portion of the light source312. A benefit of providing the diffusion layer314that extends substantially around the light source312is that when the enhanced visibility lighting310is attached to the desk top302, as described in detail herein, it is not necessary for the enhanced visibility lighting310to have a particular orientation for maximizing the visibility of the light emitted from the enhanced visibility lighting310.

Similar to the other embodiments described in this patent application, the diffusion layer314masks the light emitted from individual elements of the light source312such that it appears that the light is emitted from a single continuous light source as opposed to a plurality of spaced-apart lights in the light source312. The diffusion layer314also causes the light emitted from the light source312to appear as coming from a considerably wider light source as opposed to the light source312, which have a width that is in certain embodiments less than half of the width of the diffusion layer314.

The enhanced visibility lighting310may also include an outer layer316that at least partially extends over the diffusion layer314. In certain embodiments, the outer layer316extends substantially around the diffusion layer314so that an outer surface of the outer layer316has a generally circular profile.

The outer layer316may be fabricated from a generally transparent material. The outer layer316thereby protects the diffusion layer314from damage during use of the lighted gaming desk300. A thickness of the outer layer316may be selected based upon factors such as the desired width of the enhanced visibility lighting310.

In certain embodiments, the light source312, the diffusion layer314and the outer layer316are each pliant or bendable so that the enhanced visibility lighting310can bend around the corners of the desk top302.

Depending on the size of the lighted gaming desk300and, as such, the length of the enhanced visibility lighting310, more than one light source may be used. In certain embodiments, there are two light sources (not shown) that are located on opposite side edges of the desk top302. These light sources may be mounted on a lower surface of the desk top302. In other embodiments, the light sources are at least partially recessed in the desk top302from a lower surface thereof. Recessing the light sources in the desk top302not only protects the light sources from damage but also enhances the aesthetics of the lighted gaming desk300.

The desk top302may include a channel320formed in an edge thereof as illustrated inFIG. 15. The channel320is adapted to receive at least a portion of the enhanced visibility lighting310. In certain embodiments, the channel320receives substantially all of the enhanced visibility lighting310such that an outer surface of the enhanced visibility lighting310is approximately in alignment with the edge of the desk top302. The concepts of this embodiment are adaptable to other flat-packed furniture types.

Mounting the enhanced visibility lighting310in this manner facilitates persons who are sitting at the lighted gaming desk300seeing light that is emitted from the enhanced visibility lighting310while at the same time protecting the enhanced visibility lighting310from damage while the lighted gaming desk300is being used such as when playing video games.

The lighted gaming desk300may include at least one speaker (not shown) that is capable of emitting sounds associated with the video game being played. In certain embodiments, the lighted gaming desk300includes a plurality of speakers.

The lighted gaming desk300may also include a vibration mechanism (not shown) that is capable of emitting vibrations that are associated with the video game being played. An example of one such device that is capable of emitting vibrations is a subwoofer. The vibration emitting mechanism may be linked to the at least one speaker, a controller or the gaming system.

In use, the enhanced visibility lighting310of the lighted gaming desk300may be illuminated in a variety of colors and light patterns. Similar to the enhanced visibility lighting in the other embodiments described in this application, the configuration of the enhanced visibility lighting310not only causes the light emitted from a plurality of lighting sources to be diffused such that the light appears to be emitted from a single continuous light source but the invention also causes the light to be emitted over the width of the enhanced visibility lighting310.

Such lighting results are superior to the prior art lighted gaming chairs and furniture, which thereby increases the immersive experience of the gaming not only for the person who is playing the video game but also for persons who are watching the person who is playing the video games.

The enhanced visibility lighting310may be operable in a variety of modes of operation. The user may utilize a variety of mechanisms to switch between the modes of operation. An example of one mechanism for controlling the operation of the enhanced visibility lighting310is an in-line switch that enables a person using the lighted gaming desk300to change at least one of a lighting pattern and a lighting color. Alternatively or additionally, the enhanced visibility lighting310may be controlled using an application on a mobile phone or using a webpage.

Using a manner that is similar to the manner described with respect to the preceding embodiments of the invention, the enhanced visibility lighting310are connected to a power source and a controller. The controller controls illumination of the enhanced visibility lighting310. The controller may also include the ability for the person playing the video game to change colors and/or patterns at which the lights are illuminated. Such control may be directly changed on the object or may be remotely controlled on a wireless remote or using an application on a mobile phone.

In other embodiments, the controller may be linked to the video game unit and/or the computer on which the video game is being played. Using such a configuration enables the enhanced visibility lighting130to be illuminated to correspond with aspects of the video game. The link between the controller and the video game unit and/or the computer may be wired or wireless.

Another alternative furniture object is a lighted gaming bed frame400, which is illustrated inFIG. 16. The lighted gaming bed frame400generally includes a headboard402, a first side panel404, a second side panel406and an end panel408.

A person of skill in the art will appreciate that the components of the lighted gaming bed frame400may assume a variety of configurations using the concepts of the invention. In one such configuration, the headboard402, the first side panel404, the second side panel406and the end panel408each have a generally rectangular shape.

The lighted gaming bed frame400may be fabricated from and/or covered with a variety of materials having a variety of colors depending on the market in which the lighted gaming bed frame400is intended to be sold such as upper, moderate and value priced. Examples of materials that may be used to cover the surfaces of the lighted gaming bed frame400include leather, vinyl and fabric.

As illustrated inFIGS. 17 and 18, the enhanced visibility lighting410generally includes a light source432. In certain embodiments, the light source432has an elongated configuration and includes a plurality of light emitting elements such as LEDs. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that the light source432may be fabricated from alternative materials using the concepts of the invention.

A diffusion layer434is placed over the light source432. In certain embodiments, the diffusion layer434is an EPE foam layer. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that the diffusion layer434may be fabricated from alternative materials using the concepts of the invention.

The diffusion layer434causes the light emitted from the light source432to be more diffuse and spread out to thereby enhance the visibility of the lighting. The diffusion layer434also masks the individual bulbs in the light source432to make the illumination appear to be relatively continuous in contrast to the light emitted from the individual bulbs in the light source432.

In certain embodiments, the diffusion layer434has an at least partially semicircular outer surface as illustrated inFIG. 20. The thickness of the diffusion layer434may be selected based upon a variety of factors such as the light transmissiveness of the material used to fabricate the diffusion layer434and the desired width of the enhanced visibility lighting410.

The diffusion layer434has a width that is more than two times the width of light source432. In other embodiments, the width of the diffusion layer434is more than about five times the width of the light source432. In still other embodiments, the width of the diffusion layer434is between about five and about twenty times the width of the light source432.

The semicircular profile of the diffusion layer434also enhances the ability to see light emitted from the light source432from more directions as compared to if the light was emitted from along the surface of the light gaming bed frame400. This feature is particularly beneficial to persons who are not directly in front of the lighted gaming bed frame400.

In situations where the upper surface of the diffusion layer434is not flat, as illustrated inFIG. 18, the enhanced visibility lighting410may include a cover layer436that is placed over the diffusion layer434. The cover layer436may be fabricated from a generally transparent material. The upper surface of the cover layer436may be substantially flat across a width of the enhanced visibility lighting410as illustrated inFIG. 18.

A masking effect can be further increased by placing a masking layer438over the diffusion layer434. In certain embodiments, the masking layer438may include a gridded mesh layer with a two-way reflective fabric (light-transmissive retroreflective fabric) in between similar to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3. The masking layer438may be selected to enhance the aesthetics of lighting while minimizing a decrease in the lumens transmitted therethrough. The masking layer438may also increase the durability of the lighted gaming bed frame400with enhanced visibility lighting410because the masking layer is more durable than the diffusion layer434.

The invention thereby provides a seamless and attractive lighting finish that is brightly illuminated. The lights may be selected so that the lights are operable in a variety of colors. An example of one range of colors in which the lights may be illuminated includes red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. The lights may be operable in a single color at a time or may be operable in a gradient of colors.

The enhanced visibility lighting410may be mounted to the surface of the headboard402. Alternatively, at least a portion of the enhanced visibility lighting410may be at least partially recessed in the surface of the headboard402similar to the manner in which the enhanced visibility lighting310is attached to the lighted gaming desk302.

WhileFIG. 16illustrates that the enhanced visibility lighting410is provided only on the headboard402, it is possible for the enhanced visibility lighting410to be provided on at least one of the first side panel404, the second side panel406and the end panel408. When used in conjunction with these additional components, the enhanced visibility lighting410may be provided on at least one of an outer surface, an upper surface and an inner surface using the concepts described in this patent application.

Because of the greatly increased width of the light emitted from the enhanced visibility lighting410of this invention, the lighted gaming bed frame400provides an immersive experience for a person laying on the lighted gaming bed frame400while playing video games.

The lighted gaming bed frame400may include at least one speaker (not shown) that is capable of emitting sounds associated with the video game being played. In certain embodiments, the lighted gaming bed frame400includes a plurality of speakers.

The lighted gaming bed frame400may also include a vibration mechanism (not shown) that is capable of emitting vibrations that are associated with the video game being played. An example of one such device that is capable of emitting vibrations is a subwoofer. The vibration emitting mechanism may be linked to the at least one speaker, a controller or the gaming system.

In use, the enhanced visibility lighting410of the lighted gaming bed frame400may be illuminated in a variety of colors and light patterns. Similar to the enhanced visibility lighting in the other embodiments described in this application, the configuration of the enhanced visibility lighting410not only causes the light emitted from a plurality of lighting sources to be diffused such that the light appears to be emitted from a single continuous light source but the invention also causes the light to be emitted over the width of the enhanced visibility lighting410.

Illumination of the enhanced visibility lighting410may be synchronized with the illumination of the enhanced visibility lighting in other components that are being used in conjunction with the lighted gaming bed frame400. Alternatively, the illumination of the enhanced visibility lighting410may be controlled separately than the other illuminated components being used while playing video games.

The enhanced visibility lighting410may be operable in a variety of modes of operation. The user may utilize a variety of mechanisms to switch between the modes of operation. An example of one mechanism for controlling the operation of the enhanced visibility lighting410is an in-line switch that enables a person using the lighted gaming bed frame400to change at least one of a lighting pattern and a lighting color. Alternatively or additionally, the enhanced visibility lighting410may be controlled using an application on a mobile phone or using a webpage.

Using a manner that is similar to the manner described with respect to the preceding embodiments of the invention, the enhanced visibility lighting410are connected to a power source and a controller. The controller controls illumination of the enhanced visibility lighting410. The controller may also include the ability for the person playing the video game to change colors and/or patterns at which the lights are illuminated. Such control may be directly changed on the object or may be remotely controlled on a wireless remote or using an application on a mobile phone.

In other embodiments, the controller may be linked to the video game unit and/or the computer on which the video game is being played. Using such a configuration enables the enhanced visibility lighting410to be illuminated to correspond with aspects of the video game. The link between the controller and the video game unit and/or the computer may be wired or wireless.

It is contemplated that features disclosed in this application, as well as those described in the above applications incorporated by reference, can be mixed and matched to suit particular circumstances. Various other modifications and changes will be apparent to those of ordinary skill.