Pendulum Game Apparatus With Collapsible Cross Braces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pendulum games are inefficient in setting and resetting target objects, lack specialty targets for additional challenges, are not portable, and do not incorporate modern computer-implemented special effects.
Innovation Solution
An improved pendulum game apparatus featuring a cuboid shaped roof and foundation assembly connected by a frame assembly with collapsible cross braces, a target structure stand, movable target structures, a pendulum arm, cable, and bob, with options for actuator reset and computer-enhanced effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional pendulum games use fixed target objects, then the game structure is simple, but the setup efficiency and portability are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The game apparatus is divided into separate modular components including a frame assembly, target structure stand assembly, and movable target structures. This segmentation allows for easy assembly and disassembly, improving setup efficiency while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through standardized connection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The target structures are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to be repositioned along the pendulum's arc. This dynamic configuration enables efficient setup and teardown while providing adaptability in target positioning without significantly increasing structural complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional pendulum games lack specialty targets, then the game design is simple, but the challenge and engagement are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The target structure stand assembly is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple types of targets including standard targets and specialty targets. This multi-functional design allows for varied game challenges and target configurations without requiring separate dedicated structures for each target type, thus increasing adaptability while controlling design complexity.
3Ease of operation
If traditional pendulum games lack computer effects, then the device is simple, but the gaming experience and engagement are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
A computer system is introduced as an intermediary component that processes sensor inputs from the pendulum and targets, manages scoring, and generates visual and audio feedback. This intermediary layer enhances the gaming experience by providing real-time feedback and special effects while maintaining a relatively clean separation between the physical pendulum mechanism and the electronic systems.
4Ease of operation
If traditional pendulum games lack portability, then the structure is stable, but the ease of transport and setup is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is segmented into portable components that can be easily assembled and disassembled. The frame assembly, target structure stand assembly, and other components can be transported separately and quickly assembled at the playing location, providing portability while maintaining structural stability during use through robust connection mechanisms.
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
Enhances hand-eye coordination and provides an understanding of pendulum physics while offering a more efficient, portable, and engaging gaming experience with customizable targets and computer-implemented effects.
Implementation Method 1
a pendulum arm having a proximal end and a distal end; a pendulum cable; and a pendulum bob
Implementation Method 2
Pendulum bowling-style games are known in the art. In such games a player uses the mass or bob of a pendulum to strike objects.
Implementation Method 3
said frame assembly consisting of two collapsible cross brace assemblies, each cross brace assembly consisting of four frame arms and a crossmember bracket, said crossmember bracket configured to accept the said four frame arms so as to create a cross brace when assembled
Data Source
AI summary
An improved pendulum game apparatus includes a cuboid shaped roof assembly; a cuboid shaped foundation assembly; a frame assembly which connects the cuboid shaped roof assembly with the cuboid shaped foundation assembly, the frame assembly consisting of at least two collapsible cross brace assemblies, each cross brace assembly consisting of four frame arms and a crossmember bracket, the crossmember bracket configured to accept the four frame arms so as to create a cross brace when assembled; a target structure stand assembly, the target structure stand assembly being connectible to the upper side of the base of the cuboid shaped foundation assembly; a plurality of target structures movably attached to the said target structure stand assembly; a pendulum arm; a pendulum cable; and a pendulum bob. The improved pendulum game can include a computer system which enhances the game experience.