Surface Mounted Ball and Net Device with Flexible Rim
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing individual ball and net type games are bulky, inconvenient to set up, and lack portability due to their large size, and they primarily simulate the basic basketball goal without offering a novel game experience.
Innovation Solution
Game devices comprising a base, an intermediate structure, and a rim, where the intermediate structure has openings for throwing a ball or object, with flexible or rigid configurations and protrusions to enhance gameplay, allowing for compact design and varied gameplay experiences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional basketball-style net devices are used for individual play, then the basic basketball goal function is achieved, but the devices become bulky and take up a lot of space
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional segments: a base structure, an intermediate structure with multiple openings, and a rim assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall space requirements while maintaining individual play functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The rim structure is integrated within the intermediate structure, which itself is connected to the base. This nested arrangement eliminates the need for separate standalone components, significantly reducing the device's footprint while preserving all necessary functions for individual basketball-style play.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional basketball goals are simulated, then familiar gameplay is provided, but novel game experiences are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the intermediate structure have different properties: some openings are larger for easier scoring, others are smaller for challenge; the rim has varying thickness and flexibility in different sections. This local differentiation creates diverse gameplay experiences without requiring multiple separate devices or complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The single device structure serves multiple game functions: it can be played individually or with others, supports different ball sizes, and offers varying difficulty levels through its multiple openings. This multi-functionality provides gameplay variety while maintaining a relatively simple unified structure.
3Ease of manufacture
If the rim is made flexible and net-like, then goal-scoring visibility is improved, but structural rigidity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The rim combines flexible net-like material with rigid supporting elements. The net portion provides visual feedback when the ball passes through, while the rigid supports maintain the rim's structural integrity and proper geometry, resolving the contradiction between flexibility for visibility and rigidity for strength.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are game devices for use in individual and/or group play. These game devices can compose a base and an intermediate structure comprising an opening which a user can attempt to throw a ball or other object into. The base can be configured such that it can connect to a substantially planar surface such as a wall or ceiling. The intermediate structure can be flexible like a basketball net or can be rigid. In some embodiments, the opening in the intermediate structure can be connected to a rim that hold the opening in an “open” position. In some embodiments, the rim can further comprise bristle-like protrusion structures.