Gaming Receptacle with Triggered Object Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing outdoor and indoor gaming systems lack robust continued interaction between players and the game system, comprehensive multi-player support, and variations of play, resulting in limited engagement and interaction.
Innovation Solution
A gaming system comprising a receptacle with holes for receiving first gaming objects, chambers for storing second gaming objects, and a triggering mechanism activated by the first objects, which propels the second objects into different spatial directions, enhancing player interaction and providing scoring opportunities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a passive gaming system is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the interaction robustness and continued engagement are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the first gaming objects themselves as the triggering mechanism. When players throw first gaming objects into the receptacle, the objects directly activate the triggering mechanism through their impact on the intermediate surface, eliminating the need for separate sensors or activation devices. This self-service approach maintains simplicity while enabling robust interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the receptacle, triggering mechanism, and propulsion system into a single integrated unit. The intermediate surface serves dual purposes: it acts as both the landing surface for first gaming objects and the activation surface for the triggering mechanism. This merging of functions reduces overall system complexity while enhancing interaction quality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a simple receptacle structure is used, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the multi-player support and play variations are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle is divided into multiple chambers, each capable of independently storing and releasing second gaming objects. This segmentation allows the system to support multiple players and provide varied play patterns, as different chambers can be activated independently based on which first gaming objects are thrown into the receptacle.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate surface serves multiple functions: it acts as a landing zone for first gaming objects, a triggering mechanism activator, and a retention surface. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single component design, maintaining ease of manufacture while enabling complex play variations and multi-player support.
3Speed
If the triggering mechanism is always active, then the responsiveness is improved, but the reliability and control are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-positions first gaming objects in the receptacle and pre-loads second gaming objects into the chambers. When a player throws a first gaming object, it immediately activates the triggering mechanism, which then promptly releases the pre-positioned second gaming objects. This preliminary preparation ensures rapid response while maintaining reliable, controlled activation through the mechanical impact of the first objects.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables active and continuous interaction among players, supports multiple players, and offers various play variations, increasing engagement and interaction through the dynamic propulsion of gaming objects.
Implementation Method 1
The activated triggering mechanism causes propulsion of the one or more second gaming objects, through the open distal end of the one or more chambers, into one or more different spatial directions
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary gaming system, in one implementation, provides active interaction between one or more players and the gaming system. Such an exemplary gaming system includes a receptacle with one or more holes to receive first gaming objects thrown at it. Chambers attached to a rigid member on the receptacle receive and store second gaming objects that are later released into one or more different spatial directions. An intermediate surface operably connected to a mechanical or an electrical triggering mechanism is included in the receptacle. When the first gaming object falls into the receptacle and hits the intermediate surface, the intermediate surface causes activation of the triggering mechanism to directly or indirectly propel the second gaming objects, through the chambers, into one or more different spatial directions. A hand or foot lever allows players to reset the triggering mechanism for the next game.