Reflective Laser Tag Vests & Sunglasses - Fun & Safety

Various materials in our environment reflect light differently at different wavelengths (see figure 1.) We can use this to our advantage in laser tag to improve the game play.

 The Taggers used at a TagParty^TM  have the sensors mounted on them. While this is desirable to stop players just sticking their Tagger out around barriers and tagging others while remaining hidden; it does allow a player to stand up and determine other players positions without exposing themselves to be tagged. To minimize this at a TagParty^TM  we use near infrared (IR) reflective vests and glasses. Although it should be noted that human skin is also highly reflective of Infrared light- so not wearing the glasses does not necessarily provide you with an advantage.

In figure 2. below  the reflective properties of some of the better infrared reflective materials, and the material finally selected for the TagParty^TM  vests, are shown (the typical infrared wavelength range used in laser tag equipment is highlighted in red). It can be seen that the TagParty^TM  vest material has it maximum reflectivity in the important 850-960nm laser tag near infrared range, and is even more reflective than the foliage shown in figure 1.

figure 1. Reflectance Spectra of Common Materials

^{The above figure 1. gives an insight into laser tag played in wooded areas. Leaves give excellent coverage because they reflect away a lot of the direct shoots, but beware of ricochets from the surrounding foliage}

figure 2. Selection of Material for Infrared Reflective TagParty^TM  Vests,

The TagParty^TM  safety sunglasses are coated to provide Infrared reflectivity. The coating, which is mirror like, serves the same function as the vests in enhancing laser tag play. Sticking your head above the barriers can result in a reflected beam from the sunglasses tagging you. In addition to enhancing the play, the glasses provides protection to your eyes from both harmful UV radiation and tree branch or twig etc. as you run around. The TagParty^TM  safety sunglasses have tough Polycarbonate lenses which are impact resistant, hard-coated and offer 99.9% protection against UV light (180-380 nm).

The use of both infrared reflective vests and sunglasses enhance the laser tag game at a TagParty^TM . In addition to this important and fundamental benefit, the vests and sunglasses provide addition physical protection. The safety benefit of the sunglasses has already been explained, but the bright colored vest are also an important safety feature. From the players point of view the bright colored vest identify team mates and opponents. From an outsider (non-player) view it is obvious that this is a game, nothing more!