Roll-Up Ball Game Ramp With Nested Targets for Portable Play
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing yard games lack a portable system that is self-contained, easily transportable, and engaging for players of all ages, with high skill levels, while incorporating elements of bocce ball and featuring a ramp and diverse targets.
Innovation Solution
A portable ball game system with transformable components, including a rollable ramp and targets, where balls are rolled over a ramp to score points, with optional magnetic and LED features for enhanced gameplay, and can be set up for outdoor or indoor play on various terrains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the game system uses traditional yard game components, then the game can be played with standard equipment, but the system becomes difficult to transport and set up
Solution Approach 1:
The game components are nested within each other to create a compact portable system. The targets are stacked inside one another, the game balls fit inside the targets, and the entire assembly rolls up into the runner, which can then be stored in a bag. This nesting arrangement allows all game pieces to be contained within a single transportable package.
Solution Approach 2:
The runner is made of flexible materials such as slats, fabric, or other flexible materials that can be rolled up and stored compactly. This flexible shell contains all the game components and can be easily transported, then deployed to create the playing surface when needed.
2Ease of operation
If the game system is made highly portable and compact, then the system becomes easy to transport, but the playing surface quality and game stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The runner is designed to be dynamic in its deployment - it can be rolled up for transport and then unfurled to create a stable playing surface during gameplay. The flexible nature of the runner allows it to adapt between these two states while maintaining functionality in both configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The runner can be constructed from segmented slats or modular components that can be easily assembled and disassembled. This segmentation allows the playing surface to be quickly deployed and stabilized on various terrains while maintaining portability, as the segments can be arranged to create a stable base when unfolded.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the game includes multiple targets and game elements, then the game becomes more engaging and challenging, but the storage and transport requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple targets are designed to nest inside one another, creating a compact storage configuration. The game balls nest inside the targets, and the entire assembly rolls up into the runner. This nested arrangement allows multiple game elements to be stored in minimal space within a single portable package.
Solution Approach 2:
The runner serves multiple functions: it acts as the playing surface, provides the ramp for rolling balls, and serves as the storage container for all game components when rolled up. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate storage containers, reducing overall storage volume while maintaining game variety.
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 versatile and challenging game experience for 1-4 players, allowing easy transport and setup, with customizable options for different terrains and lighting, and supports multiple gameplay variations.
Implementation Method 1
The targets could be made of magnetic material or have magnetic material attached thereto
Implementation Method 2
A night version could include light up LED discs that are placed inside the targets to illuminate them, along with LED strips that could be placed along the ramp
Data Source
AI summary
A portable game where balls are rolled over a ramp at targets. The game incorporates aspects of bocce ball with the additional challenge of a ramp and different types of targets. The game can roll up into an easily transportable package with all game pieces stored inside the roll. The roll can then be deployed to act as a portion of the game's playing surface in any suitable location. The game consists of balls, a runner, a ramp, and different forms of targets. The runner could be made of slats, fabric, or other materials that are flexible and can be rolled. The balls are similar to bocce balls but could be lighter or smaller for easy transport.