US20090023501A1

US20090023501A1 - Graphical training decal for video game controller

Info

Publication number: US20090023501A1
Application number: US11/880,041
Authority: US
Inventors: Michael Kidakarn
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2007-07-18
Filing date: 2007-07-18
Publication date: 2009-01-22

Abstract

A decal applied to a conventional game controller which makes interaction with the game easier to a player by providing the benefit of labeling single or multiple button functions on the decal that corresponds to functions of the interactive game. The decal is labeled with words, names, symbols, or images relating to the game or game functions. This benefits the player with easier use and faster learning of the control functions for the interactive game.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to video game controllers for home video game console accessories and in particular to video game controller and controller pad covering devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to functional and decorative graphical training decal for video game controller (hereinafter “controller masks”) having variable graphic designs, a uniquely functional geometry, and being reusable, and removably attachable to the face on a video game controller or controller pad.

DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ARTS

Home console gaming is a multi-billion dollar industry. The revolution in the home console gaming market and electronics in the 1980's has led to mass production of home video game consoles and home game controller pads. These related devices continue to be marketed and distributed together in the same retail package. The home game console and controller pads are primarily dedicated to playing home console format games on a TV. The standardized input device for home console gaming continues to be the controller pad.
While the manufacturer printed symbols on the controller pad buttons appear random to anyone who has not been trained in operating a controller pad. The problem of locating the correct buttons is a primary source of reduced enjoyment, frustration, delay, and disillusionment with the use of video games. Furthermore, when teaching new users how to operate a controller pad, it is advantageous to be able to reference the printed button functions in proximity to the associated shapes and alphanumeric symbols on the controller pad button.
Home console controller pads are, have become, and will continue to be increasingly sophisticated over time. At the same time, home console video games have become increasingly sophisticated. It is now standard that home console controller pads have 2-14 buttons and joysticks in which the user operates to command the video game images on screen. Additionally, it is now standard that the number of functional commands that console video games have the potential to execute is in excess of 20 commands, an amount greater than the number of individual buttons available. The limited number of individual controller pad buttons cannot cover the full set of in-game commands, thus the combination of buttons can be pressed to execute the excessive game commands. The problem is that this requires memorization of the excessive button functions, complicated motion, skillful timing, and learning how to operate. The present controller pad markings are limited to the alphanumeric symbols and shapes, limiting the potential learning associations to the basic set of button functions, but not the excessive set of button functions. It would be advantageous to have this list of excessive buttons functions in physical proximity to the actual operational buttons.
Printed instruction manual books are well known. They are distributed with home game programs. These instructional books are enclosed in the original game disc package and designed to provide associations between keys and functions other than the indicators marked on the controller. Although the instruction manual lists button association with button functions, it is presented as a chart, printed of over multiple pages in a book format.
One disadvantage of information listed in a book format is that it requires memorization of the button functions. Another disadvantage of these books is that they cannot provide close visual indications of the function associated with all buttons. Another disadvantage of these books is that even if they are close to the buttons, it is necessary to make a separate visual contact with the instruction manual and with the controller pad itself. Another disadvantage of these books is that they are large and cumbersome, with information listed across multiple pages. Another disadvantage is that they are unstable, as paper books with staple bindings tend to close.
An additional disadvantage is related to the fact that these instruction manual booklets come with the original packaging. Generally, product packaging is not considered valuable and is discarded. Also after a certain amount of time, product instruction books may be discarded or misplaced. It would be advantageous to have button associations referenced from the face of the controller pad, to provide the learning associations and increase enjoyment with the game software.
Another disadvantage of the instruction manual is that it is not available when playing games on public demonstration units, where learning commands in a short period of time is crucial to the enjoyment of the game. It would be advantageous to have the button function information, readily available on the body of the controller pad, for ease of use during actual game play.
Most console game players play several different games. It is well known that multiple game programs have unique associated button command sets. Different game programs and buttons command sets are not related to each other. The game programs are so diverse and varied that commonality between buttons and functions are rare. Trying to remember the set of button functions and associated game program becomes impossible. An additional advantage is to provide decorative or identification markings to match and identify the game program and the related functional information.
There are home console game programs that stimulate learning. The problem of finding the correct game and game function is understandably worse for children who have just learned to operate home console video games, making the search for button and action associations beyond the patience and attention span of most children. The controller pad is a dull, confusing, utilitarian piece of equipment. This obstacle prohibits children enjoyment of the game software. When teaching children to operate a home console video game, it would be advantageous to provide varied identification markings and enjoyable images.
Along with increased public use of console controllers, new issues of sanitation and microbial contamination have arisen. This is particularly a problem with controller pads in fast food restaurants and shopping malls. Most controller pads are not readily washable, and the collection and growth of bacteria on their surfaces is unabated. Contact with the fingertips of multiple users results in cross-contamination at a site of the body most likely to come into contact with food, and with other susceptible locations of the body.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,331,083 B1 issued to Harris, discloses key covers for individual keys of a computer keyboard, with each key cover having a colored background and a fluorescent letter of a contrasting color. The key covers each consist of a flat rectangular piece of plastic material of the same size as the key to be covered, and of an adhesive bottom surface that allows for attachment and removal.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,183,346 issued to Tesar, discloses a keycap overlay snap-on system for converting the graphic symbols on a computer data entry keyboard to a different set of graphic symbols, such as scientific symbols or foreign language characters. The invention consists of a plurality of keycaps, each keycap consisting of a top rectangular surface that corresponds in size and shape to the upper exterior surface of the data entry key over which it is to be positioned.
U.S. Pat. No. Des. 331,575 issued to Pike, discloses and claims the ornamental design for a computer keyboard decal that is substantially wider than it is tall, wrapping over the top and down the sides of keys.
U.S. Pat. Application No. 20030161672 issued to Roberson discloses key decals for individual keys of a computer keyboard, with each key cover having an illustration. The key covers each consist of a flat rectangular piece of material of the same size as the key to be covered, but with a tab that protrudes over the edge of the key. The key decal has an adhesive bottom surface that allows for attachment and removal.
These devices have numerous disadvantages, including obtrusive to operate, accidental removal, and impractically covering the standard markings of the device.
One disadvantage of the other related device relates to the materials and adhesives use to produce them, the process of regular removal is difficult, leaving a tear in the material and making reuse impossible.
An additional result of this disadvantage is that adhesive and paper residue is often left behind on the surface, creating a sticky mess. Another disadvantage of these designs is that even if paper decal is removed successfully, the decal becomes distorted and curled, making reuse impractical. This problem is exasperated by being applied to the convex face surfaces.
Another disadvantage of these designs is that since they cannot be reused, it is necessary to keep additional stickers in stock, at additional cost, in order to use them again.
The related device discloses decal placement on the depressible buttons that the user must operate regularly. This causes regular use to degrade the shear strength of the adhesive and shortening the life of the device. In addition, the regular use will cause the degradation of the printed symbol, making continued use non-functional.
Another disadvantage of these devices is that since they are numerous to fit the multiple keys of a keyboard, they are difficult and time consuming to align and install, due to the large quantity needed to be applied.
Other devices have numerous disadvantages, including impractically covering less than the entire body surface of the controller pad to achieve a uniform structure and functional usability.
Another disadvantage of some of these devices is that if they are oversized and hang over the surface and making accidental removable and frequent use frustrating. A typical result of this disadvantage is that the user will accidentally scratch them off during operation of regular video game play, destroying the sticker such that it cannot be reused.
While these devices may fulfill their respective, particular objectives and requirements, the aforementioned patents disclose utilities related to a keyboard for a computer and do not disclose utilities related to a controller pad for home video game console, having the advantageous functional and decorative use of the present invention.
Alas these related devices list improvements for the depressible keys on a computer keyboard, whereas the present invention discloses improvements on the body of a video game controller or controller pad.
Thus, it is seen that there is a need for an improved system for optionally and variably identifying button actions in the separate category of video game controller pad for home video games consoles.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

A major object of the present invention is to provide an indicator means for direct association of console game software, basic and advanced button functions, and the body of a controller pad. An advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that it provides a disposable protective means of preventing transmission of contagious diseases through fingertip contact with contaminated buttons and surfaces of a controller pad. Another advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that it is easily installed and secure during usage. Another advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that it provides a means for modifying a controller pad to provide immediate association with actions performed when playing home console video games. Another advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that it provides an inexpensive means for modifying a controller pad to provide an entertaining interface for children to learn to operate home console video games. Another advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that the graphical illustration provides identification markings to associate with the game program. Another advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that the graphical illustrations are enjoyable. Another advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that it is reusable. Another advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that it is inexpensive. Other advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following descriptions, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein, by way of illustration and example, an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed.
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a mask set is made up of a plurality of die-cut controller masks located on a stock. The controller masks are die-cut from the stock. In a preferred embodiment, the stock is made from a thin lithographic PVC plastic stock having a matte finish, and a basis weight of approximately 70 pounds. In another preferred embodiment, the face stock has a caliper thickness of approximately 0.035 inches.
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a mask set for attaching to a face on a video game controller or controller pad, comprising: a stock having a top surface and a bottom surface; a plurality of die-cut controller masks located on the stock; each controller mask having a body that is substantially similar to the dimensions of the respective face for attaching to the video game controller; at least one controller mask having a graphic illustration on the top surface; a pressure sensitive adhesive adhered to the bottom surface; and, a coated liner adhered to the pressure sensitive adhesive.
In another preferred embodiment the controller mask has a graphical illustration on its top surface. The mask set is comprised of three controller masks. Preferably, the body substantially matches the dimensions of a face for a standard controller pad for a home game console. Also in the preferred embodiment, graphic illustrations of button commands are printed in close proximity to the die-cut holes for the related buttons. The left and right controller masks have a die-cut shape joining a small and large circular shape. A cross section is die-cut from the center of the larger circle shape. The middle controller mask is rectangular and the top portion of the die-cut shape folds over the top of the controller body. A circular hole is positioned for a cord. In this embodiment, the controller masks include graphic illustrations representing distinct character actions related to an interactive video game. In another preferred embodiment, game software title, characters, and other markings are printed on the face of the controller mask.
In another preferred embodiment the controller mask has a graphical illustration on its top surface. The mask set is a single controller mask. Preferably, the body substantially matches the dimensions of a face for a standard controller pad for a home game console. Also in the preferred embodiment, graphic illustrations of button commands are printed in close proximity to the die-cut holes for the related buttons. In this embodiment, the mask set is a single controller mask. The top and bottom sides of the die-cut are substantially curved inwards. The left and right sides of the die-cut shape are substantially curved outwards. The center of the die-cut shape has a circular shaped hole. In this embodiment, the controller mask includes graphic illustrations representing distinct character actions related to an interactive video game. In another preferred embodiment, game software title, characters, and other markings are printed on the face of the controller mask.
In another preferred embodiment the controller mask has a graphical illustration on its top surface. The mask set is comprised of three controller masks. Preferably, the body substantially matches the dimensions of a face for a standard controller pad, relating to a home game console. Also in the preferred embodiment, graphic illustrations of button commands are printed in close proximity to the die-cut holes for the related buttons. In this embodiment, the right controller mask has a single circular hole in the center with curved button holes surrounding. The center controller mask is an arc shape where the top and bottom edges of the die-cut have a convex curve. In this embodiment, the controller masks include graphic illustrations representing distinct character actions related to an interactive video game. In another preferred embodiment, game software title, characters, and other markings are printed on the face of the controller mask.
In the preferred embodiment, a pressure sensitive adhesive is adhered to the bottom surface of the stock (and thus, of controller masks). The pressure sensitive adhesive adheres the stock to the coated side of a silicone-coated liner. In the preferred embodiment, the pressure sensitive adhesive is a clear acrylic, removable adhesive, having a high shear and high removable adhesion. Also in the preferred embodiment the liner is made from paper stock that has a basis weight between approximately 50 and 110 pounds.
In another embodiment, the controller masks of a set are graphically attractive masks for use in training children to operate the controller pad. In another embodiment, the controller mask sets include colorful graphic illustrations to help to maintain the attention span of the child, while learning how to operate home video game console.
These and other objectives, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top view of a controller mask according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the controller mask for attaching on a surface of the controller according to the above preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the controller mask according to the above preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the controller mask on the surface of the controller for guiding the operation of the controller in responsive to the game console.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the controller mask according to the above preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the controller mask being protected by a face stock.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the controller mask according to the above preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the controller mask being partially peeled off from the face stock.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the controller mask according to the above preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the controller mask being removed from the face stock.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the controller mask according to the above preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating controller mask attached on the game controller.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the controller mask according to the above preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the material layers of the controller mask.

FIG. 9 is a top view of the controller mask according to the above preferred embodiment of the present invention, disclosing the die-cut shape for the controller mask with respect to the surface of the game controller.

FIG. 10 illustrates a first alternative mode of the controller mask according to the above preferred embodiment of the present invention, disclosing the first alternative die-cut shape for the controller mask with respect to the surface of the game controller.

FIG. 11 illustrates a second alternative mode of the controller mask according to the above preferred embodiment of the present invention, disclosing the second alternative die-cut shape for the controller mask with respect to the surface of the game controller.

FIG. 12 illustrates a third alternative mode of the controller mask according to the above preferred embodiment of the present invention, disclosing the third alternative die-cut shape for the controller mask with respect to the surface of the game controller.

FIG. 13 illustrates a fourth alternative mode of the controller mask according to the above preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the controller mask being clipped on the game controller.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The following description is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention, and is provided in the context of a particular application and its requirements. Various modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.
FIG. 1 is a top view of a controller mask according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the controller mask is adapted for attaching to a game controller 10 which has a surface 11 and one or more functional controls 12 provided thereon, as shown in FIG. 2. Accordingly, the controller mask comprises a body 20 and a learning arrangement 30. The body 20 has a top surface 21 and a bottom surface 22 adapted for overlapping on the surface 11 of the game controller 10. Preferably, the body 20 is attached on the top surface of the game controller 10 wherein the functional controls 12 are provided thereon. The learning arrangement 30 comprises a graphic illustration 31 provided on the top surface 21 of the body 20 for direct association of console game software and operational functions. The body 20 is shaped and sized corresponding to a dimension of the surface 11 of the game controller 10. Accordingly, the graphic illustration 31 contains distinct identification marks related to a video game. The graphic illustration 31 on the body 20 represents player controls over the game, such as character action and character movements. The controller mask further comprises a UV gloss coat 50 coating on said top surface 21 of the body 20 to protect the graphic illustration 31 and to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the controller mask. This embodiment permits immediate association of the proper button with a desired control, allowing a player to learn new game controls quickly, and play more successfully. This is achieved without the obstacle of unidentifiable controls within the controller pad.
As shown in FIG. 1, the body 20 is applied to the conventional game controller 10 wherein the graphic illustration 31 makes interaction with the game easier to a player by providing the benefit of labeling single or multiple button functions on the decal that corresponds to functions of the interactive game via the graphic illustration. Accordingly, the graphic illustration 31 forms a label with words, names, symbols, or images relating to the game or game functions. This benefits the player with easier use and faster learning of the control functions for the interactive game.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the controller mask prior to its placement on the game controller 10. Accordingly, the top surface 21 of the body 20 is formed with the graphic illustration 31. The bottom surface 22 of the body 20 is attached to the surface 11 of the game controller 10. According to the preferred embodiment, an adhesive is provided on the bottom surface 22 of the body 20 for attaching on the surface 11 on the game controller. In particularly, the adhesive is a clear acrylic removable adhesive having a high shear and high removable adhesion. Alternatively, the bottom surface 22 of the body 20 contains a cling film adapted for removably clinging on the surface 11 of the game controller 10 by means of tensile force. The functional controls 12 of the game controller 10 are embodied as buttons 121 and/or joysticks 122. The graphic illustration 31 contains the operation instruction of the video game with respect to said functional control 12 of the game controller 10.
The body 20 further contains a plurality of through openings 23 spacedly formed thereon for the functional controls 12 extending through the openings 23 at a position above the top surface 21 of the body 20. The graphic illustration 31 is provided on the top surface 21 of the body 20 and is aligned with the openings 23. The preferred positioning allows the buttons 121 and joysticks 122 of the game controller 10 to be placed inside the die cut openings 23 of the controller mask.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a controller mask applied to the game controller 10. The graphic illustration 31 on individual controller mask represents player controls over the game, such as character action and character movements. This permits immediate association of the proper button 121 and joysticks 122 with a desired control, allowing a player to learn new game controls quickly, and play more successfully. The graphic illustration 31 contains an instruction guide 311, such as “Jump”, “Kick”, Punch” and “Special” for guiding the operation of the button 121, and “Up”, “Down”, Left”, and “Right” for guiding the operation of the joystick 122, wherein the instruction guide is printed or coated on the top surface 21 of the body 20. The instruction guide 311 is positioned around the peripheral edge portion of the corresponding openings 23 of the body 20. In other words, the graphic illustrations 31 are printed in close proximity to the die-cut openings 23 for the related buttons 121 and joysticks 122.
As shown in FIG. 4, the present invention further comprises a face stock 40 removably attaching to the bottom surface 22 of the body 20. In addition, the graphical illustration 31 further identifies a distinct game by use of game title and game character. In the embodiment, the inks used for printing graphic illustrations 31 on the body 20 of the controller masks are luminous pigment of printing inks. In the preferred embodiment, the luminous pigments are phosphorescent zinc sulphide (ZnS: Cu), with body color light yellow and emission color yellow green. Preferably the Phosphorescent Luminous Pigments are free from cadium, lead, mercury, arsenic, chromium, antimony, and selenium, and are not harmful substances.
As shown in FIG. 5, the body 20 is die-cut into the predetermined shape according to the surface 11 of the game controller 10. Accordingly, the body 20 is removably adhered on the face stock 40 such that the body 20 is adapted to peel off from the face stock 40 to attach on the surface 11 of the game controller 10. In other words, the face stock 40 is adapted to protect the body 20 before attaching onto the surface 11 of the game controller 10 and to keep the adhesive ability of the bottom surface 22 of the body 20. In this view, it is seen that a die-cut forms the separation between the body 20 and face stock 40. Beneath the body 20, and within the outline of die-cut, a bottom surface 22 is visible. The side of bottom surface 22 has a pressure adhesive coating. In the preferred embodiment, pressure adhesive coating enables the body 20 be removed and applied in multiple yet separate occurrences to the face of the game controller 10. Experimentation has shown that these properties, combined with disclosed properties or other elements of the invention, contribute to providing many of the advantages of the present invention.
Accordingly, the controller mask is made up of a plurality of die-cut bodies 20 located on the face stock 40. Each of the bodies 20 has the top surface 21 and the bottom surface 22. As the bodies 20 are die-cut from face stock 40, the material properties of the bodies 20 are the same as those of face stock 40. In a preferred embodiment, the face stock 40 is made from a thin PVC plastic stock that has a basis weight between 50 and 110 pounds. In a preferred embodiment, the face stock 40 is made from a thin PVC plastic stock having a basis weight of 80 pounds. Also in the preferred embodiment, the face stock 40 is made from lithographic PVC plastic stock having a matte finish, and a caliper thickness of between 0.03 and 0.04 inches. Experimentation has shown that these material properties, combined with the disclosed properties of other elements of the invention, contribute to providing many of the advantages of the present invention.
FIG. 6 illustrates removal of the body 20 from the face stock 40. In this view an advantageous method can be seen where individual application of the body 20 is used to promote training by listing a subset of the printed button functions. Thus, the body 20 contains three different portions such that the user is able to easily attach each portion of the body 20 on the surface 11 of the game controller 10.
FIG. 7 illustrates the body 20 being fittingly attached on the surface 11 of the game controller 10, disclosing the printed button functions of the graphic illustration 31 for use with interactive gaming software. A character illustration 310 can be further provided on the top surface 21 of the body 20 to enhance the personalization and aesthetic appearance of the game controller 10. Still referring to FIG. 7, in the preferred embodiment, no part of the body 20 protrudes over the surface 11 of the game controller 10. Experimentation has shown that these geometric and dimensional properties, combined with the disclosed properties or other elements of the invention, contribute to providing many of the advantages of the present invention. In particular, these features allow buttons 121 and joysticks 122 to be operated without accidental removal of the body 20. The applied controller mask of the present invention can be operated while protecting the surface 11 of the game controller 10 from scratches.
FIG. 8 is the side view the body 20, illustrating the material layers. A pressure sensitive adhesive 201 is adhered to the bottom surface 22 of the body 20, and will adheres the bottom surface 22 with the surface 11 of the game controller 10. In this view, it shows that the pressure sensitive adhesive 24 adheres to the convex face of the surface 11 of the game controller 10. The combined preferred material and dimensional properties of controller mask permit the body 20 to flex in a manner complementary to the shape of the surface 11 of the game controller 10.
FIG. 9 is a top view technical drawing of a preferred embodiment of the present invention, disclosing the die-cut shape for the body 20 for attaching to the surface 11 of the game controller 10. The body 20 contains three portions 201, 202, 203. Preferably, the body 20 substantially matches the dimensions of the surface 11 of the game controller 10 for a home game console. The left and right portions 201, 202 of the body 20 have a die-cut shape joining a small and large circular shape. The cross shaped die-cut opening 23 cut from the center of the larger circle shape for the buttons 121 fitting thereto. The middle portion 203 of the body 20 is rectangular and the top portion of the die-cut shape folds over the top of the game controller 10. The circular opening 230 having an opening slit is formed for a cord passing therethrough.
FIG. 10 is a top view of an alternative shape of the body 20, disclosing the die-cut shape for the body 20 for attaching to the surface 11 of the game controller 10 for a home video game console. The body 20 comprises one mask with the openings 23. The top and bottom edges of the die-cut are substantially curved inwards. The left and right edges of the die-cut shape are substantially curved outwards. The center of the die-cut shape has a circular shaped hole.
FIG. 11 is a top view of another alternative shape of the body 20, disclosing the die-cut shape for the body 20 for attaching to the surface 11 of the game controller 10 for a home video game console. The body 20 comprises three masks with the openings 23. In this embodiment, the right controller mask has a single circular hole in the center with curved button holes surrounding. The center controller mask is an arc shape where the top and bottom edges of the die-cut have a convex curve.
FIG. 12 illustrates another shape of the body 20, disclosing the die-cut shape for the body 20 for attaching to the surface 11 of another type of the game controller 10. It is worth to mention that FIGS. 9 to 11 illustrate different designs of the body 20 being made for the same configuration of the game controller 10 while FIG. 12 illustrates the body 20 being made for different configurations of the game controller 10.
FIG. 13 illustrates a first alternative mode of the controller mask of the preferred embodiment. The controller mask comprises the body 20′ and the graphic illustrations 31′. The body comprises a controller casing 26′ adapted for detachably mounting to the game controller 10, wherein the controller casing 26′ comprises a platform 261′ defining said top surface 21′ on a top side of the platform 261′ to provide the graphic illustrations 31′ thereon and the bottom surface 22′ on a bottom side of the platform 261′, and a plurality of engaging clips 262′ integrally and spacedly extended from a peripheral edge of the platform 261′ for detachably engaging with the game controller 10 at a position that the platform 261′ is overlapped on the surface 11 of the game controller 10. In other words, the body 20′ is clipped on the game controller 10′ and is adapted to be interchanged with another controller casing 26′ to represent player controls over the game, such as character action and character movements. Likewise, the body 20′ further contains a plurality of through openings 23′ spacedly formed thereon for buttons 121 and the joystick 122 of the functional controls 12 extending through the openings 23′ at a position above the top surface 21′ of the platform 261′. The graphic illustration 31′ is provided on the top surface 21′ of the platform 261′ and is aligned with the openings 23′.
One skilled in the art will understand that the embodiment of the present invention as shown in the drawings and described above is exemplary only and not intended to be limiting.
It will thus be seen that the objects of the present invention have been fully and effectively accomplished. It embodiments have been shown and described for the purposes of illustrating the functional and structural principles of the present invention and is subject to change without departure from such principles. Therefore, this invention includes all modifications encompassed within the spirit and scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A controller mask for attaching to a game controller having a surface and one or more functional controls provided thereon, comprising:

a body having a top surface and a bottom surface adapted for overlapping on said surface of said game controller; and

a learning arrangement comprising a graphic illustration provided on said top surface of said body for direct association of console game software and operational functions.

2. The controller mask, as recited in claim 1, wherein said graphic illustration contains distinct identification marks related to a video game.

3. The controller mask, as recited in claim 1, wherein said graphic illustration contains the operation instruction of a video game with respect to said functional control of said game controller.

4. The controller mask, as recited in claim 2, wherein said graphic illustration contains the operation instruction of a video game with respect to said functional control of said game controller.

5. The controller mask, as recited in claim 1, wherein said body further contains a plurality of through openings spacedly formed thereon for said functional controls extending through said openings at a position above said top surface of said body.

6. The controller mask, as recited in claim 4, wherein said body further contains a plurality of through openings spacedly formed thereon for said functional controls extending through said openings at a position above said top surface of said body.

7. The controller mask, as recited in claim 5, wherein said graphic illustration is provided on said top surface of said body and is aligned with said openings.

8. The controller mask, as recited in claim 6, wherein said graphic illustration is provided on said top surface of said body and is aligned with said openings.

9. The controller mask, as recited in claim 8, wherein said body is shaped and sized corresponding to a dimension of said surface of said game controller.

10. The controller mask, as recited in claim 9, wherein an adhesive is provided on said bottom surface of said body for attaching on said surface on said game controller.

11. The controller mask, as recited in claim 10, wherein said adhesive is a clear acrylic removable adhesive having a high shear and high removable adhesion.

12. The controller mask, as recited in claim 9, wherein the body is made from PVC plastic stock with a matte finish.

13. The controller mask, as recited in claim 9, wherein said bottom surface of said body contains a cling film adapted for removably clinging on said surface of said game controller by means of tensile force.

14. The controller mask, as recited in claim 9, wherein said body comprises a controller casing adapted for detachably mounting to said game controller, wherein said controller casing comprises a platform defining said top surface on a top side of said platform and said bottom surface on a bottom side of said platform, and a plurality of engaging clips integrally and spacedly extended from a peripheral edge of said platform for detachably engaging with said game controller at a position that said platform is overlapped on said surface of said game controller.

15. The controller mask, as recited in claim 11, wherein said graphic illustration is printed on said top surface of said body.

16. The controller mask, as recited in claim 13, wherein said graphic illustration is printed on said top surface of said body.

17. The controller mask, as recited in claim 14, wherein said graphic illustration is printed on said top surface of said body.

18. The controller mask, as recited in claim 15, further comprises a UV gloss coat coating on said top surface of said body.

19. The controller mask, as recited in claim 16, further comprises a UV gloss coat coating on said top surface of said body.

20. The controller mask, as recited in claim 17, further comprises a UV gloss coat coating on said top surface of said body.