Disc-Throwing Game Device

Abstract

A disc-throwing game device is provided. The device is comprised of at least one pair of target rings and at least one pair of discs. The target rings may incorporate hinges or interlocking segments to enable folding or disassembly for transport, with mechanical detents or latch mechanisms securing the open or closed configuration. The discs feature a central hub that may be in the form of an open aperture, recessed grip, or raised contour, and that is surrounded by spokes extending to the disc periphery to improve tactile control. The disc surface may further include textures such as ridges, dimples, or grooves to facilitate aerodynamics and user grip. During gameplay, players alternate throwing discs toward the opposing ring, scoring points based on proximity and / or placement within each ring.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 778,499, which was filed on Mar. 27, 2025, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of amusement games. More specifically, the present invention relates to an amusement game comprised of at least one pair of target rings and at least one pair of discs, wherein players take turns throwing the discs toward the opposing ring, earning points based on proximity and / or placement within the target ring. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.BACKGROUND

[0003] Outdoor recreational activities serve an important role in promoting physical engagement, social interaction, and leisure among individuals and families. Events such as picnics, campsites, tailgate gatherings, and backyard parties often include group games to foster entertainment and community bonding. However, repeatedly engaging in the same games may result in boredom or decreased enthusiasm. Additionally, many traditional outdoor games are not inclusive of individuals who experience limited mobility or reduced hand strength, thereby excluding a significant portion of the population from participation. Certain game formats require fine motor skills, sustained grip strength, or complex rules that may not be easily accessible to players with physical limitations. Furthermore, the lack of adaptable or alternative gameplay mechanisms restricts opportunities for inclusive play across diverse age groups and ability levels. A game that can accommodate varying physical capabilities while maintaining competitiveness and enjoyment remains largely unavailable in many recreational contexts.

[0004] Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a disc-throwing game device that provides an engaging and competitive gameplay experience suitable for diverse social settings. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a disc-throwing game device that accommodates players with limited hand strength or mobility through ergonomic and accessible components. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a disc-throwing game device that enables portable setup and compact storage without compromising gameplay functionality.

[0005] The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a disc-throwing game device. The device is comprised of at least one pair of target rings and at least one pair of discs. The target rings may incorporate hinges or interlocking segments to enable folding or disassembly for transport, with mechanical detents or latch mechanisms securing the open or closed configuration. The discs feature a central hub that may be in the form of an open aperture, recessed grip, or raised contour, and that is surrounded by spokes extending to the disc periphery to improve tactile control. The disc surface may further include textures such as ridges, dimples, or grooves to facilitate aerodynamics and user grip. During gameplay, players alternate throwing discs toward the opposing ring, scoring points based on proximity and / or placement within each ring.

[0006] In this manner, the disc-throwing game device of the present invention accomplishes all the foregoing objectives and provides a competitive yet accessible recreational game adaptable to various settings. The inclusion of ergonomic disc designs with grip-enhancing textures and hub configurations enables participation by users with limited dexterity or hand strength. The modular construction of the target rings, including folding hinges and interlocking segments, allows for efficient setup, transport, and storage. The gameplay structure, including variable scoring systems and adjustable target spacing, ensures replay ability and adaptability for users of different ages and physical capabilities. Consequently, the device addresses the need for a socially engaging, physically inclusive, and easily deployable game that enriches group experiences in outdoor environments.SUMMARY

[0007] The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key / critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0008] The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a disc-throwing game device. The device is comprised of a recreational game designed for outdoor environments including campsites, parks, and backyards, supporting play by two or more individuals in competitive or casual formats, both individually or in teams.

[0009] The device is comprised of at least one pair of target rings. The target ring may have various cross-sectional profiles including circular, rectangular, oval, or polygonal. In one embodiment, each target ring is comprised of a hinge to allow folding. In another embodiment, each target ring is comprised of at least two interlocking, detachable segments for compact storage. The interior space of the target ring may be circular or non-circular and may feature a contrasting background surface to improve visibility. During play, the target rings may be spaced apart by a customizable distance such as 15 feet, adjustable based on space, age, or difficulty level.

[0010] The device is further comprised of multiple throwing discs, each comprising a central hub configured as an aperture, depression, or grip. The hub may take various shapes, including circular, hexagonal, or contoured, with variations to suit different hand sizes or techniques. Each disc may include one or more spokes extending from the hub to the inner edge of the disc. The spokes may be evenly spaced or asymmetrical and configured as solid, hollow, or truss-like elements. The spokes may feature uniform or tapered thickness and may be integrally molded into the disc. The surface of each disc may further be comprised of a texture that enhances grip, control, and aerodynamics.

[0011] During gameplay, players alternate tossing discs toward the opposing target ring. Scoring is based on landing location, with examples such as but not limited to three points for entering the interior space, two for ring contact, and one for proximity. Scoring may incorporate cancellation rules to negate points and may proceed until a team reaches a target score such as 21, with tie-breaking procedures as needed.

[0012] The invention is also comprised of a method of use, including providing the device with target rings and discs, deploying the rings at a spaced distance, alternating disc throws toward the opposing ring, assigning points based on disc location, and continuing play until a final score is achieved, with optional tiebreakers.

[0013] Accordingly, the disc-throwing game device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a competitive yet accessible recreational game adaptable to various settings. The inclusion of ergonomic disc designs with grip-enhancing textures and hub configurations enables participation by users with limited dexterity or hand strength. The modular construction of the target rings, including folding hinges and interlocking segments, allows for efficient setup, transport, and storage. The gameplay structure, including variable scoring systems and adjustable target spacing, ensures replay ability and adaptability for users of different ages and physical capabilities. Consequently, the device addresses the need for a socially engaging, physically inclusive, and easily deployable game that enriches group experiences in outdoor environments, thereby overcoming the limitations of existing amusement games known in the art.

[0014] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of target rings of multiple potential embodiments of a disc-throwing game device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0017] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a throwing disc of one potential embodiment of a disc-throwing game device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

[0018] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of a disc-throwing game device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0020] As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a disc-throwing game device that provides an engaging and competitive gameplay experience suitable for diverse social settings. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a disc-throwing game device that accommodates players with limited hand strength or mobility through ergonomic and accessible components. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a disc-throwing game device that enables portable setup and compact storage without compromising gameplay functionality.

[0021] The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a disc-throwing game device intended for outdoor use in locations such as campsites, parks, and backyards. Designed for participation by two or more individuals, the game accommodates both team-based and individual play in competitive or casual formats.

[0022] The device includes at least one pair of target rings. Each target ring may have a cross-sectional profile selected from circular, rectangular, oval, or polygonal shapes. In one embodiment, a hinge is integrated into each target ring to facilitate folding. In another embodiment, each target ring comprises two or more detachable, interlocking segments that allow compact storage. The interior space defined by the ring may be either circular or non-circular and may incorporate a contrasting background to aid visibility. During operation, the rings may be positioned at variable distances, such as 15 feet, to accommodate user age, available space, or desired difficulty level.

[0023] Multiple throwing discs are also included, wherein each disc incorporates a central hub that may be configured as an aperture, recessed depression, or raised grip. Hub shapes may include circular, hexagonal, or contoured variations, tailored to different hand sizes or throwing styles. One or more spokes may extend radially from the hub to the disc's inner edge, with configurations ranging from evenly spaced to asymmetrical. The spokes may be formed as solid, hollow, or truss-like structures and may feature uniform or tapered profiles. In some configurations, the spokes are integrally molded with the disc body. The outer surface of each disc may feature a texture to improve grip, enhance control, and optimize aerodynamic properties.

[0024] Gameplay involves players taking turns to toss discs toward the opposing target ring. Scoring may be determined by the disc's landing position, including but not limited to three points for landing inside the ring's interior space, two points for contacting the ring, and one point for landing within a defined proximity. A cancellation rule may be applied to adjust scores dynamically. Gameplay continues until one team reaches a predetermined score, such as 21 points, with optional tie-breaking mechanisms.

[0025] The invention further includes a method of use comprising the steps of providing the game device with target rings and discs, deploying the target rings at a spaced distance, alternating throws of the discs toward the opposing target ring, assigning scores based on landing positions, and continuing gameplay until the target score is reached, with optional tie-breaking procedures if necessary.

[0026] As a result, the device is adaptable for a wide range of settings and is accessible for a wide range of users. Ergonomic disc designs featuring grip-enhancing textures and variable hub configurations further accommodate individuals with limited hand strength or dexterity. The modular construction of the target rings in various embodiments further facilitates efficient setup, transport, and storage. Accordingly, the device provides an engaging, inclusive, and portable recreational activity that overcomes the limitations found in existing amusement games.

[0027] Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of target rings 102 of multiple potential embodiments of a disc-throwing game device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The device 100 is comprised of a recreational game intended for outdoor use in environments such as but not limited to campsites, barbeque areas, parks, beaches, backyards, or general open-air gatherings. The device 100 may be configured for participation by two or more players and may support competitive or casual play in both team-based and individual formats.

[0028] In one embodiment, the device 100 is comprised of at least one pair of target rings 102. Each target ring 102 may be made from a material or combination of materials such as but not limited to aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, UV-stabilized plastic, treated hardwood, composite alloys, etc. The cross-sectional profile of each target ring 102 may be circular, rectangular, oval, or polygonal, depending on aesthetic and functional design considerations.

[0029] In one embodiment, each target ring 102 may be comprised of a hinge 104 (as seen in FIG. 1) to facilitate the collapsing or a folding of the ring 102. The hinge 104 may be any combination such as but not limited to a locking hinge, torsion hinge, continuous piano hinge, double-action hinge, spring-biased hinge, or detent hinge. In certain embodiments, the hinge 104 may incorporate a mechanical detent or latch mechanism 106 to secure the ring 102 in an open or closed configuration during use or transport. The axis of rotation of the hinge 104 may be oriented vertically, horizontally, or obliquely, depending on folding mechanics.

[0030] In an alternative embodiment, each target ring 102 may be comprised of at least two interlocking segments 108, as seen in FIG. 1. The interlocking segments 108 may be designed to be detachable from one another and reconfigurable for compact storage. The segments 108 may be joined via a pair of reciprocating fasteners 110,112 such as but not limited to any combination of threaded couplers, cam-lock fittings, quick-release pins, hook-and-loop straps, ratcheting latches, slide-and-lock interlocks, etc.

[0031] The interior space 103 defined by the target ring 102 may be circular or non-circular and may optionally include a contrasting background surface 114 to enhance visual target acquisition, wherein the background surface 114 may differ in color, finish, material, and / or structure from the ring 102 and / or surrounding ground area. In one embodiment, the surface 114 and disc 120 may be magnetic such that the discs 120 can be magnetically stored on the surface 114 when the device 100 is not in use. In some embodiments, a support base 116 may be included to elevate the target ring 102 off the ground. The support base 116 may be in the form of any combination of stakes, foldable tripod legs, magnetic mounts for metallic surfaces, or weighted stabilizing plates.

[0032] During gameplay, the target rings 102 may be spaced apart by a distance such as but not limited to 15 feet. However, the distance between target rings 102 may vary to accommodate age groups, space constraints, or desired difficulty.

[0033] The device 100 may be further comprised of multiple throwing discs 120. Each disc 120 may be comprised of a central hub 122, as seen in FIG. 2. The hub 122 may be configured as an open aperture, a recessed depression, or a raised grip area. The aperture size or recess depth may vary across embodiments to suit different hand sizes or throwing techniques. The shape of the hub 122 may be circular, hexagonal, star-shaped, or contoured. The disc 120 and hub 122 may be any shape.

[0034] Extending radially outward from the central hub 122 may be one or more spokes 124, as seen in FIG. 2. Each spoke 124 may function as a structural connector between the hub 122 and the inner peripheral edge 126 of the disc 120. The spokes 124 may be evenly spaced or asymmetrically arranged, and may be any combination of solid ribs, hollow channels, or truss-like members depending on the strength-to-weight requirements. The spoke 124 may exhibit a uniform or tapered cross-section, where the thickness may reduce from the hub 122 toward the edge 126 for weight balancing. In some embodiments, the spoke 124 may be integrally molded into the disc 120.

[0035] Additional variations may include spoke configurations such as but not limited to Y-shaped bifurcations, spiral vanes, aerodynamic blades, or webbed structures that serve dual functions for grip reinforcement and airflow modulation. The material of the spoke 124 may be identical to the disc body or may be formed from an elastomeric or high friction insert to enhance tactile control.

[0036] In one embodiment, the surface 128 of each disc 120 may be comprised of a texture 130. The texture 130 may serve both functional and aesthetic roles. Functionally, the texture 130 may improve the user's grip, facilitate rotational control during the throw, and enhance aerodynamic performance. Aesthetically, the texture 130 may provide brand visibility or thematic consistency. The texture 130 may be comprised of but is not limited to any type of grip-enhancing patterns such as but not limited to parallel ridges, crisscrossed grooves, raised dimples, herringbone patterns, chevron arrays, micro perforations, or waffle grids. The texture 130 may be uniform across the surface 128 or zonally differentiated to allow varying tactile feedback, such as smooth central zones with coarse perimeter zones. In one embodiment, the texture 130 may include patterns that aid in airflow channeling, such as but not limited to curved aerodynamic flutes. Some textures 130 may further be directional to suggest an optimal throwing orientation or hand placement.

[0037] In one embodiment, the disc 120 is also comprised of an indicia 132 that may include but is not limited to any combination of arrows, instructional symbols, game logos, score markers, or alphanumeric identifiers. The indicia 132 may be molded into the surface, printed with UV-stable inks, or applied using adhesive overlays. The indicia 132 may be raised or embossed. The indicia 132 may further serve to differentiation a first team's discs 120 from a second team's discs 120. The indicia 132 may further be in the form of a pattern or a color to further differentiate discs 120 for separate teams.

[0038] During gameplay, players may take turns tossing the discs 120 toward the opposing target ring 102. The objective may be to land the disc 120 within the interior space 103 or as close as possible. A scoring system may be implemented where point values are assigned based on proximity or center alignment. For example, a disc 120 landing inside the interior space 103 may score three points, a disc 120 touching the ring 102 may score two points, and a disc 120 within a defined radius may score one point. Scoring may be dynamically adjusted during play using a cancellation rule, wherein equivalent or superior throws by the opposing team may negate previously scored points. Ties may be resolved using sudden-death rounds or alternate tiebreaker formats. The game may be played to a final score of 21 points or to an alternative predetermined value such as 15, 30, or “win by two” configurations.

[0039] The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 200 the device 100, as seen in FIG. 3. First, a device 100 is provided comprised of at least one (but preferably one pair) of target rings 102 and at least one (but preferably one pair of) disc(s) 120 [Step 202]. Then, the target rings 102 can be deployed on a surface (such as but not limited to the ground) at a distance apart [Step 204]. Next, players may take turns tossing the discs 120 toward the opposing target ring 102 (i.e., a first player throws a first disc 120 toward a first target ring 102 and a second player throws a second disc 120 toward a second target ring 102), attempting to land within the interior space 103 of the ring 102 and / or near the ring 102 according to game rules [Step 206]. Then, points can be assigned based on the position of the discs 120 relative to each target ring 102, including but not limited to three points for landing inside the interior space 103, two points for contact with the ring 102, and / or one point for proximity within a defined radius [Step 208]. Finally, tossing of the discs 120 at the rings 102 may continue until one team reaches a final score such as but not limited to 21 points or another predetermined value, with optional tiebreakers if necessary [Step 210].

[0040] Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “disc-throwing game device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the disc-throwing game device 100 of the present invention.

[0041] Notwithstanding the forgoing, the disc-throwing game device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the disc-throwing game device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the disc-throwing game device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the disc-throwing game device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the disc-throwing game device 100 may be of any size, shape, and / or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and / or that suits the user's needs and / or preferences.

[0042] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0043] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

1. A disc-throwing game device comprising:a target ring comprised of an interior space; anda disc comprising a central hub, a spoke extending radially from the central hub to an inner peripheral edge of the disc.

2. The disc-throwing game device of claim 1, wherein the target ring is comprised of a hinge.

3. The disc-throwing game device of claim 2, wherein the hinge is comprised of a latch mechanism.

4. The disc-throwing game device of claim 1, wherein the central hub is comprised of a circular shape, a hexagonal shape, a star shape, or a contoured shape.

5. The disc-throwing game device of claim 1, wherein the spoke is comprised of a tapered cross-section.

6. The disc-throwing game device of claim 1, wherein the interior space is comprised of a background surface.

7. A disc-throwing game device comprising:a target ring comprised of an interior space; anda disc comprising a central hub, a spoke extending radially from the central hub to an inner peripheral edge of the disc, and a texture.

8. The disc-throwing game device of claim 7, wherein the target ring is comprised of a first segment and a second segment.

9. The disc-throwing game device of claim 8, wherein the first segment is comprised of a first fastener that attaches to a second fastener of the second segment.

10. The disc-throwing game device of claim 7, wherein the texture is comprised of a curved aerodynamic flute.

11. The disc-throwing game device of claim 7, wherein the spoke is comprised of a uniform cross-section.

12. The disc-throwing game device of claim 7, wherein the texture is comprised of a grip-enhancing pattern.

13. The disc-throwing game device of claim 12, wherein the grip-enhancing pattern is comprised of a parallel ridge, a crisscrossed groove, a raised dimple, a herringbone pattern, a chevron array, a micro perforation, or a waffle grid.

14. The disc-throwing game device of claim 7 further comprised of an indicia.

15. The disc-throwing game device of claim 14, wherein the indicia is comprised of an arrow.

16. The disc-throwing game device of claim 14, wherein the indicia is comprised of an instructional symbol.

17. The disc-throwing game device of claim 14, wherein the indicia is comprised of a raised indicia.

18. The disc-throwing game device of claim 14, wherein the indicia is comprised of an embossed indicia.

19. The disc-throwing game device of claim 7, wherein the interior space is comprised of a background surface.

20. A method of using a disc-throwing game device, the method comprising the following steps:providing a disc-throwing game device comprised of a first target ring, a second target ring, a first disc, and a second disc;deploying the first target ring and the second target on a surface at a distance apart;alternating turns between a first player tossing the first disc toward the first target ring and the second player tossing the second disc toward the second target ring;assigning a point value to the first player based on a position of the first disc relative to the first target ring and assigning a point value to the second player based on a position of the second disc relative to the second target ring; andcontinuing to toss the first disc at the first target ring and the second disc at the second target ring until the first player or the second player reaches a final score.

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