Weighted Tossing Cup with Flared Lip for Aerodynamic Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an inexpensive, compact, analog game that can be played outside, as existing games like spikeball and cornhole are expensive and bulky.
Innovation Solution
A weighted tossing cup and catching cup game, where the cups have a weighted base and a flared lip made of resilient material, allowing for safe tossing and catching, and facilitating aerodynamic descent and grip protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing outdoor games like spikeball and cornhole are used, then entertainment and brain-muscle function maintenance are improved, but cost and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The game is divided into separate components (multiple cups, weighted bases) that can be independently handled and easily transported. Each cup functions as an independent unit that can be carried separately, making the overall game compact and portable while maintaining full gameplay functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses simple cup-shaped objects that replicate basic functional forms rather than complex game structures. The cups serve multiple functions (tossing, catching, scoring) replacing the need for elaborate game equipment, achieving entertainment value through simplified copied forms.
2Reliability
If existing outdoor games like spikeball and cornhole are used, then entertainment and brain-muscle function maintenance are improved, but cost and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cups are designed to be inexpensive items that can be easily manufactured from common materials. The weighted bases use simple fillable containers rather than precision-engineered components, dramatically reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining game functionality and durability for outdoor use.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention allows customization of cup parameters (weight, size, material) to optimize performance without increasing base cost. Players can adjust weighted base fillings and select cup materials based on availability and budget, achieving varied entertainment value from low-cost components.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If cups are made from resilient material for safe tossing and catching, then safety and durability are improved, but aerodynamic performance may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cup design concentrates resilient material specifically at the weighted base where impact occurs during catching, while the upper cup portion maintains a streamlined shape for aerodynamic descent. This localized application of resilience protects against injury without significantly compromising overall aerodynamic performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The cup combines resilient material for the weighted base with aerodynamically optimized material for the cup body. This composite construction allows the base to absorb impact energy safely while the cup portion maintains smooth airflow characteristics for predictable descent trajectories.
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 game provides a fun, compact, and portable way to engage in outdoor play, promoting exercise, teamwork, coordination, and cognitive thinking, while being cost-effective and easy to transport.
Implementation Method 1
The weighted base and flared lip together provide aerodynamic function to the cup so that when thrown it falls in a predetermined manner with the base directed downward
Implementation Method 2
enabling the catcher to catch the cup under ambient earth gravity
Implementation Method 3
The flared lip acts as a stabilizer during descent
Implementation Method 4
The weighted base, the sidewall, and the flared lip are formed of a resilient material that does not shatter upon being thrown from a distance of about 15-30 feet and falling from a height above the players' heads
Data Source
AI summary
A cup for a catching game has a weighted base with a sidewall extending to a flared lip. The lip defines a mouth that can accommodate another of the cup. The weighted base, the sidewall, and the flared lip are formed of a resilient material that does not shatter upon being thrown from a distance of about 15-30 feet and falling from a height above the players' heads under ambient earth gravity. This configuration assists in the descent of the cup when tossed. The flared lip also protects fingers and assists a player in gripping the cup to prevent a party foul.