Someone was inspired by old threads here...

[PeterGustafsson]

Hi!

Have a look at this patent:

http://www.freepatentsonline.com/4553748.html

Electrostatically enhanced game
United States Patent 4553748
View Patent Images

Inventors: Allen; Ray L. (204 Townsend Pl., Atlanta, GA 30327);Harrison; N.
Cole (1438 Tullie Rd., Atlanta, GA 30329)
Abstract: An electrostatic enhancement apparatus for a video arcade or other
game, including an electrostatic generator for generating a high voltage low
current electrostatic charge, an electrode coupled to the generator for
providing the electrostatic charge to a player, and control circuitry
responsive to a control signal from the game for actuating the electrostatic
generator to provide the electrostatic charge to the player upon the
occurrence of a predetermined event in the game. The preferred embodiment
includes an isolation booth for surrounding and electrically isolating the
player during the electrostatic charging and preventing accidental
discharge. Also included is a discharge arm mounted for electrical
engagement with the electrode for removing charge from the electrode and the
player under certain circumstances.
Assignee:
Application Number: 517465
Filing Date: July 26, 1983
Publication Date: November 19, 1985
Current Classes: 463/30; 361/232; 446/140; 463/46
International Classes: A63F 009/00
Field of Search: 273/311,1 E,1 GC,85 G,DIG. 28128/783,419 N,419
R,371,375361/232446/140
US Patent References: 477975 Jun., 1892 Waite 128/783.
2404653 Jul., 1946 Plebanek.
3819108 Jun., 1974 Jordan.
4093232 Jun., 1978 Nutting et al. 273/121.
4149716 Apr., 1979 Scudder.
4320901 Mar., 1982 Morrison et al.

Foreign Patent References: 2637250 Feb., 1978 DE 128/783.

Looks like someone read some of the more off-the-wall ideas (posted here and on rsf) on how to make fencing more viewer-interesting!

Have a nice time!

Peter Gustafsson

[Prometheus]

If I recall there was a game something like that in one of the James Bond movies around the vintage of that patent.

[riptide]

Never Say Never Again, if I'm not mistaken