Mechanical Ball Projection Game Prize Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ball projection game devices are typically large, electrically operated, mechanically complex, and expensive to manufacture, while smaller, non-ball projection maze games that release a tangible prize are less expensive but lack the engaging mechanical complexity of traditional ball projection games.
Innovation Solution
Mechanical ball projection game devices with mechanically-actuated ball loader assemblies and prize release mechanisms that allow game balls to trigger the release of a prize, incorporating features like paddles, depressible buttons, and a prize insert chamber to securely hold and release prizes upon specific ball conditions being met.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional electrically operated ball projection game devices are used, then player engagement and mechanical complexity are improved, but manufacturing cost and device size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrical motors and electronic control systems with purely mechanical components. The ball projection mechanism uses a mechanical launcher operated by the player, and all game elements (paddles, flippers, prize release) are driven by ball impacts and mechanical linkages without electrical actuators. This substitution eliminates complex electronics while maintaining mechanical engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes electrical components from the game device, eliminating motors, circuit boards, sensors, and power supplies. By taking out these expensive and complex electrical systems, the device achieves cost-effective manufacturing while relying solely on mechanical principles for all game functions.
2Productivity
If mechanically complex electrically operated systems are used, then ball projection and interaction are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical components are designed to be self-actuating through ball impacts. Paddles and flippers automatically respond to ball contact without electrical sensors or motors. The prize release mechanism is triggered automatically when balls reach designated areas, eliminating the need for complex electronic control systems while maintaining dynamic interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using electrical systems to control mechanical movement, the patent inverts the approach by using mechanical ball impacts to directly drive the movement and control functions. The balls themselves become the control input, physically actuating paddles and triggering prize release through mechanical contact rather than electronic signaling.
3Ease of manufacture
If smaller non-ball projection maze games are used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but player engagement and mechanical interaction are diminished
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines elements of both ball projection games and maze games into a single device. The game board includes maze-like pathways that guide ball travel, while also incorporating ball projection mechanics and prize release features. This multi-functionality allows the device to provide engaging mechanical interaction at a cost similar to simpler maze games.
Data Source
AI summary
Mechanical ball projection game devices, including game devices having mechanically-actuated ball loader assemblies, and game devices to release a tangible prize upon game balls reaching or entering a prize location to release a tangible prize upon game balls reaching or entering a prize location. Game devices disclosed herein include prize inserts that may be configured to receive one or more of paper currency, gift cards, financial transaction cards, greeting cards, toys, and candy. Mechanical ball projection game devices may include user-controllable features to redirect ball travel, features to guide and obstruct ball travel, and ball projector devices.