Pivoting Target Setter for Automated Pin Resetting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing carom game systems, such as bowling and billiards, require complex and costly machines for clearing and resetting targets, which are not feasible for scaled-down table-top versions.
Innovation Solution
A gaming device with a target setter that pivots between positions to collect and store spherical objects in a reservoir, and direct them onto the playing field, using channels and a receptacle to efficiently reset targets in a tetractys formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If complex machines with multiple components (arm, shaker, ballwheel, pin-wheel, conveyor belt, turret) are used to clear and reset pins, then the pin resetting function is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The pin resetting function is divided into two distinct operational phases: a loading phase where pins are collected and stored in a magazine, and a resetting phase where pins are dispensed onto the playing field. The target setter pivots between these phases, separating the complex functions into manageable segments that reduce overall system complexity while maintaining automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The target setter serves multiple functions: it acts as both a collection receptacle during the loading phase and a dispensing mechanism during the resetting phase. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate collection and dispensing mechanisms, significantly reducing device complexity while maintaining automated operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If scaled-down version of complex pin-clearing machine is built for table-top game, then the game can be played, but the device complexity remains high and manufacturing cost is prohibitive
Solution Approach 1:
The target setter is designed as a compact, self-contained unit with a magazine that stores multiple targets. This segmentation allows the entire resetting function to be scaled down to table-top size while maintaining the essential loading and resetting operations, making manufacturing feasible.
Solution Approach 2:
The target setter pivots between loading and resetting positions, providing dynamic functionality in a compact form. This dynamic design allows a single mechanism to perform multiple functions, reducing the overall size and complexity compared to static systems, thereby enabling table-top scaling.
3Device complexity
If hand-clearing of pins is performed, then the device complexity is low, but the productivity and time efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
Targets are pre-loaded into the magazine during a loading phase before the resetting phase begins. This preliminary action allows multiple targets to be prepared in advance, enabling rapid sequential dispensing during gameplay without requiring complex real-time collection mechanisms, thus improving productivity with minimal complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The target setter automatically dispenses targets onto the playing field without requiring external intervention or complex mechanical manipulation. The gravity-assisted dispensing mechanism allows targets to be released automatically, improving resetting speed while keeping the mechanism simple.
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
Provides a simple and cost-effective means for collecting and resetting targets on a playing field, suitable for various carom games, enhancing gameplay without the need for elaborate machinery.
Implementation Method 1
a substantially planar surface operatively arranged to direct a substantially spherical object toward the receptacle
Implementation Method 2
a target setter arranged to pivot relative to the playing field between a first position and a second position
Data Source
AI summary
A gaming device including a playing field having a substantially planar surface, and a target setter arranged to pivot relative to the playing field between a first position and a second position, the target setter including a reservoir and at least one channel extending from the reservoir, wherein the reservoir is adapted to receive and store at least one substantially spherical object therein when the target setter is in the first position, and the at least one channel is operatively arranged to direct a substantially spherical object from the reservoir to the playing field when the target setter is in the second position.