Stationary Playing Field Barriers With Rollable Bistable Elements

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing play sets for constructing stationary playing fields are either complex and large, requiring special plug-in connections or are not very stable, making them difficult to store and use on various surfaces.

Innovation Solution

A game set with strip-shaped base bodies having a curved cross-section that can transition between rolled-up and extended positions, using bistable shaping behavior, and connecting elements with receptacles for detachable connection, allowing for simple setup and stability on different surfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If rigid barrier elements with special plug-in connections (e.g., dovetail joints) are used, then the playing field can be constructed with stable barrier elements, but the device complexity increases and storage becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestability of barrier elementsVSAvoidcomplexity of connection system
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The barrier elements are divided into modular segments with standardized connection interfaces. Each barrier element can be independently manufactured and connected through simple receptacles that accept standardized profiles, eliminating the need for complex custom joinery while maintaining structural stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connecting elements with receptacles are designed to universally accept various barrier element profiles through standardized insertion mechanisms. This universal interface allows the same connecting element to work with different barrier element types, simplifying the overall system while maintaining stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Stability of the object's composition

If complex and large barrier elements are used to form stable playing fields, then the playing field stability is improved, but the ease of storage deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestability of playing fieldVSAvoidease of storage
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The barrier elements are segmented into smaller, manageable pieces that can be easily stored and transported. These segments are designed to connect through standardized interfaces, allowing them to be stored compactly when not in use while forming a stable playing field when assembled.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The barrier elements are designed with dynamic characteristics, including flexible materials and movable connection mechanisms, allowing them to be easily deployed and stored. The elements can be quickly assembled and disassembled without requiring complex tools or procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of manufacture

If barrier elements are designed for specific table geometries, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the adaptability to different surfaces deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of manufacture of barrier elementsVSAvoidadaptability to different surfaces
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The barrier elements and connecting elements are designed with universal geometries that can adapt to different surface types and configurations. The standardized receptacles and profiles allow the same components to be used on tables, grassy areas, and other surfaces without requiring custom manufacturing for each application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The barrier elements incorporate adjustable parameters such as height, angle, and positioning capabilities that can be modified to suit different surface geometries. This allows the same manufactured components to adapt to various playing surfaces while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized production processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Enables the creation of a stable, large playing field that is easy to store and can be set up on various surfaces, including tables and outdoor areas, with compact components that can be stowed away easily.

Implementation Method 1

the strip-shaped base body can be transferred from a rolled-up position to an extended position by means of a bistable shaping behavior using the cross-section curved in an extended position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBistable shaping behavior: Metastability

Data Source

PatentEP4288171B1Game set for constructing a stationary playing field
Publication Date: 2025.08.06 HEADIS GMBH
  • EP4288171B1 patent drawingFigure 1~4
  • EP4288171B1 patent drawingFigure 5a~8
  • EP4288171B1 patent drawingFigure 9a~9b

AI summary

The invention relates to a game set for constructing a stationary playing field, arranged in a playing field plane, for a movable game element, wherein the movable game element can be moved on the playing field, having a first perimeter barrier element and a connection element, wherein the connection element has a first receptacle for receiving a first perimeter barrier element and a second receptacle for receiving a second perimeter barrier element and/or a further perimeter barrier element such that the first perimeter barrier element can be releasably connected to the second perimeter barrier element and/or to the further perimeter barrier element by means of the connection element, and in a connected state, a perimeter barrier for deflecting a movement of the movable game element for the playing field is formed by means of the first perimeter barrier element, by means of the second perimeter barrier element and/or by means of the further perimeter barrier element, wherein the first perimeter barrier element, the second perimeter barrier element and/or the further perimeter barrier element has a strip-like main body, wherein the strip-like main body has, in particular in an extended position, a curved cross section with a curvature contour such that the strip-like main body can be transferred, by means of a bi-stable shape behaviour and with the use of the cross section curved in an extended position, from a rolled-up position to an extended position, and the strip-like main body can be received in the first receptacle and/or in the second receptacle along a respective receiving axis in the extended position with the curvature contour of the curved cross section.