Modular Electronic Target Game with Sensor Feedback

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing action games lack a portable, easy-to-set-up, and fun target-tossing game system with electronic and automatic scoring mechanisms, which are essential for quick setup and playability in various settings.

Innovation Solution

A game system comprising a mat with senior and junior target attachment notches, a multi-section light indicator, and a digital score display, along with removably attachable center targets equipped with sensors and speakers for electronic and audible feedback, allowing for easy setup and scoring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a portable target-tossing game system with electronic scoring is created, then fun and playability are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveportability and playabilityVSAvoidelectronic scoring mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The game system is divided into separate modular components: a portable mat with attachment notches, removable targets with embedded sensors, and external scoring indicators. This segmentation allows each component to be independently manufactured and assembled, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining electronic scoring functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mat serves multiple functions: it provides the playing surface, contains attachment notches for positioning targets, and integrates visual scoring indicators. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying the overall device while preserving electronic scoring capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Extent of automation

If electronic sensors and scoring indicators are integrated into the target, then automatic scoring is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic scoring capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic components (sensors, speakers, lighting) are segmented into separate modules that can be independently manufactured and then integrated into the target assembly. This modular approach allows each component to be produced using standard manufacturing processes, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while achieving automatic scoring.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The target acts as an intermediary component that houses the sensor and connects it to the external scoring system through electrical contacts. This intermediary role simplifies manufacturing by allowing the target to be produced as a standardized unit that interfaces with the mat's scoring indicators.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple target attachment notches are provided for different skill levels, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of skill levelsVSAvoidattachment system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment notches serve multiple functions: they position targets at different distances for varying skill levels, provide mechanical retention for the targets, and establish electrical connections for scoring. This multi-functionality allows the mat to accommodate different skill levels without adding significant complexity to the attachment system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 provides a fun and competitive target-tossing experience for players of various skill levels, with electronic and visual feedback, ensuring easy setup and scoring, enhancing playability and enjoyment in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Implementation Method 1

Each goal is equipped with a sensor that detects when it has been struck by a ball

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSensor detection:

Implementation Method 2

automatically keeps track of the score in addition to sounding an audible 'hit'

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectroacoustic transduction:

Implementation Method 3

a multi-section light indicator embedded within said mat

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectroluminescence: Electroluminescence

Data Source

PatentUS8002283B1Target game apparatus
Publication Date: 2011.08.23 JONES ANDRE W
  • US8002283B1 patent drawing
  • US8002283B1 patent drawing
  • US8002283B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention comprises an entertaining targeting game for all ages that enhances hand-eye coordination and provides target practice and a method of playing such a game. The device consists of an electronic target striking device for removable attachment to a ground-engaging mat. The target striking device has visual and audible strike indicating means and the mat has score display means. Additional embodiments are anticipated.