Pneumatic Game Using Concealed Jets for Reliable Play Object Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing games that involve moving objects on a play surface, such as foosball and air hockey, face limitations in providing a consistent and controlled mechanism for propelling objects across the surface, often relying on friction reduction methods that may not ensure reliable and fast gameplay.
Innovation Solution
A game system utilizing a frame with a source of compressed gas and a network of jets to direct gas blasts across the play surface, allowing players to selectively trigger gas flows through conduits and valves to move play objects, such as a ball, into scoring locations, using pneumatic joysticks and controllers to manage gas delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If friction reduction mechanisms are used in air hockey tables, then play speed is increased, but reliability of gameplay is reduced due to inconsistent object movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies pneumatic principles by using a network of concealed jets embedded in the play surface that deliver controlled bursts of air to propel the play object. This pneumatic system replaces traditional friction-based movement mechanisms, providing reliable and consistent object propulsion through controlled gas delivery rather than relying on air cushion effects alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-positions multiple concealed jets throughout the play surface, each capable of being activated independently. The jets are prepared in advance with compressed air ready to deliver, allowing immediate and precise propulsion of the play object to any location on the surface without delay or inconsistency.
2Device complexity
If traditional mechanical mechanisms are used to move play objects, then device complexity is reduced, but gameplay speed and reliability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces complex mechanical moving parts with a pneumatic system consisting of concealed jets and compressed air reservoirs. This eliminates the need for motors, belts, gears, or other mechanical transmission components while achieving faster and more reliable play object movement through direct air propulsion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical propulsion systems with a pneumatic control system. Instead of using mechanical forces to move the play object, the system uses controlled bursts of compressed air delivered through concealed jets, replacing entire mechanical subsystems with a simpler pneumatic architecture.
3Reliability
If concealed jets with compressed air are used to move play objects, then gameplay speed and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases due to gas storage and distribution systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of gas storage, compression, and distribution into an integrated pneumatic system. The compressed air reservoir, regulator, and network of conduits to concealed jets are combined into a unified system that delivers controlled air bursts throughout the play surface, reducing overall system complexity compared to separate mechanical propulsion units at each jet location.
Solution Approach 2:
The concealed jet system serves multiple functions: it propels the play object, controls its direction, and can be selectively activated at different locations across the play surface. The single compressed air reservoir supplies all jets, making the system multi-functional and reducing the need for multiple independent propulsion systems.
4Measurement precision
If selective jet triggering is implemented, then control precision over play object movement is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases due to valve and conduit networks
Solution Approach 1:
The play surface is segmented into multiple zones, each with its own concealed jet that can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows precise control of play object movement by activating only the specific jets needed for desired trajectories, while each jet remains a simple, manufacturable component connected to the common compressed air supply.
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
This solution enables precise and efficient movement of play objects across the surface, enhancing gameplay speed and reliability by using directed gas blasts, allowing for intuitive player control and adaptable gameplay scenarios, including multi-player and computer-opponent modes.
Implementation Method 1
a source of compressed gas capable of providing gas for moving the play object across the play surface
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of jets in communication with the play surface for directing the gas to move the play object across the play surface
Data Source
AI summary
A game that uses a source of compressed gas, such as compressed air, to provide gas to move a play object across a play surface. The compressed gas source is capable of providing compressed gas to jets in communication with the play surface for directing the gas to move the play object across the play surface. A triggering device allows the player to select one or more jets and selectively trigger the flow of gas from a selected jet.