Rotatable Cup Balance Apparatus for Dynamic Ball Games
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of a ball balance game and method that effectively engages players in a challenging and dynamic way, utilizing balance apparatuses and balls, which addresses the desire for interactive and skill-based outdoor or indoor play.
Innovation Solution
A game apparatus comprising at least two balls and two balance apparatuses, each with a rigid handle and a statically or rotatably supported cup portion, allowing players to balance the balls, with adjustable rim sizes and shapes to vary difficulty, and multiple gameplay variations such as competitive and cooperative modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the cup portion is made statically attached to the handle, then the structure is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the gameplay variety and challenge are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cup portion is made rotatably supported on the handle rather than being statically attached, allowing it to rotate freely. This dynamic configuration enables varied gameplay modes (competitive, cooperative, relay races) while maintaining a simple overall structure that is easy to manufacture.
2Ease of operation
If the rim size is made larger, then the ball is easier to balance, but the challenge and skill requirement are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies that the rim diameter should be between 15-90 percent of the ball diameter, allowing adjustment of the balancing difficulty. By changing this parameter, the game can be adapted to different skill levels while maintaining the core balancing challenge.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple gameplay variations are implemented, then the game becomes more engaging and versatile, but the rules and instructions become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The same basic balance apparatus with a rotatable cup portion is used across multiple game modes (competitive balancing, cooperative balancing, relay races). The versatility comes from how the apparatus is used rather than from complex variations in the apparatus itself, keeping rules relatively 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
The solution provides a fun and engaging ball balance game that challenges players to maintain balance, promoting physical skill and strategy through various gameplay scenarios, including competitive rounds and team-based relay races, while ensuring safety guidelines are followed.
Implementation Method 1
Each balance apparatus (14) includes a rigid handle (16) and a cup portion (18) supported on one end of the handle (16) for having a ball (12) balanced thereon
Data Source
AI summary
A game apparatus includes at least two balls and two balance apparatuses for balancing the balls thereon. Each balance apparatus can be held by a separate player. A method of playing a ball balance game includes equipping at least two players each with a balance apparatus and a ball. Each ball is balanced on each balance apparatus. Players can then be positioned at desired locations relative to each other. A desired game can then be started with the balls and the balance apparatuses.