Multi-layered Game Board with Hinged Storage and USB Connectivity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional board games are limited in imagination and skill requirements, with flat surfaces offering restricted choices and lack of portability, and existing game pieces often come loose or are not interchangeable, failing to provide an engaging and educational experience for players across various learning styles.

Innovation Solution

A multi-dimensional game board with interchangeable die-cast metal pieces and a hinged case that securely holds all components, allowing for multiple layers of play and online connectivity via a USB port, enabling enhanced educational content and interactive experiences.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a flat, single surface board is used, then the board game structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the choices of direction and information absorbed are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvechoices of direction and informationVSAvoidboard structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a traditional flat 2D board to a multi-layered 3D board structure with multiple play surfaces stacked vertically. This dimensional change allows players to access multiple game boards within a single compact unit, dramatically increasing the variety of games and play directions available while maintaining a space-efficient design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The board is divided into multiple separate playable layers that can be independently accessed. Each layer contains a complete game board with its own game pieces and rules, allowing players to segment their play experience by choosing different layers for different games or challenges.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If game pieces are made loose and interchangeable, then player creativity and customization are enhanced, but organization and storage become difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepiece interchangeabilityVSAvoidorganization and storage
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a nested storage system where compartments within the board structure hold game pieces when not in use. Each compartment is specifically designed to store pieces from its corresponding game layer, creating an organized system where pieces are easily accessible during play but automatically stored when not needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The board structure serves multiple functions: it provides the playing surface, contains storage compartments for pieces, and offers organizational spaces for different game components. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate storage containers while maintaining easy access to all game elements.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If a cardboard box is used for storage, then manufacturing is simple and cost-effective, but portability and external use are not conducive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveportability and external useVSAvoidstorage container
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the storage container function with the game board itself. The board structure is designed to fold into a compact unit that serves as both the playing surface and the storage case, eliminating the need for a separate cardboard box while maintaining manufacturability and adding portability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The board employs dynamic folding mechanisms that allow it to transform from an expanded playing state to a compact storage state. This dynamic structure enables easy portability and external use while maintaining the integrity and ease of manufacture of the original board design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11065531B2Multi-layered game board
Publication Date: 2021.07.20 BURROW JAMES PAUL
  • US11065531B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A portable board game that allows the player to journey through different terrains, providing a fun and educational foundation for learning all types of information with a unique game board; the multidimensional game board allows for choice within the gaming experience. The polarities of game components all have a secure, designated spot within the board game case. This platform provides an addition outlet for absorbing information while having fun at the same time.