Magnetic toss game

Abstract

A magnetic toss game with a three-dimensional target capable of generating a magnetic field, a support mechanism having two ends, the first end operably coupled to the three-dimensional target, and a three-dimensional backdrop having at least one side surface and a bottom surface, the three-dimensional backdrop spaced apart from the three-dimensional target and operably coupled to the support mechanism, wherein the three-dimensional backdrop envelops the three-dimensional target on at least two sides, including the bottom side.

Claims

1. A magnetic toss game, the game structure comprising: a three-dimensional magnetic target, the three-dimensional magnetic target stationary and positioned in a vertical position relative to a ground surface, the three-dimensional magnetic target comprised of: a permanent magnet; a magnetically permeable spacer, the magnetically permeable spacer positioned adjacent to the permanent magnet; the permanent magnet and magnetically permeably spacer capable of generating a magnetic field around all sides of the three-dimensional magnetic target including the entirety of perimeter; and an external covering surrounding an exterior surface of the three-dimensional magnetic target, the external covering having magnetically permeable and magnetically impermeable regions, wherein the external covering blocks the magnetic field in distinct regions providing the three-dimensional magnetic target with both magnetic regions and nonmagnetic regions; and a ferromagnetic game piece, the ferromagnetic piece capable of adhering to the three-dimensional magnetic target when tossed to a position near the three-dimensional magnetic target, wherein the ferromagnetic game piece can be adhered in multiple positions around all sides including the perimeter of the three-dimensional magnetic target.

2. A magnetic toss game as in claim 1, wherein movement of the external covering alters the magnetic field of the three-dimensional magnetic target.

3. A magnetic toss game as in claim 1, wherein movement of the three-dimensional magnetic target and the magnetically permeable portion of the external covering alters the magnetic field emanating from the three-dimensional magnetic target.

4. A magnetic toss game as in claim 1, wherein the three-dimensional magnetic target is an electromagnet, and wherein the magnetic field of the three-dimensional magnetic target can be selectively controlled.

5. A magnetic toss game as in claim 1, wherein the ferromagnetic game piece is a bottle cap.

6. A magnetic toss game, the game structure comprising: a magnetic target, the magnetic target being stationary and having a three-dimensional shape capable of generating a magnetic field around all sides including an entire perimeter, the magnetic target comprising: a permanent magnet; a magnetically permeable spacer, the magnetically permeably spacer positioned adjacent to the permanent magnet; and an external covering surrounding an exterior surface of the magnetic target, the external covering having permeable and impermeable regions; a support mechanism, the support mechanism having: a first end, the first end operably coupled to the magnetic target to support the magnetic target in a vertical position; and a second end; a ferromagnetic game piece, the ferromagnetic piece capable of adhering to the magnetic target when tossed to a position near the magnetic target around all sides including the entire perimeter of the magnetic target; and a backdrop, the backdrop spaced apart from the magnetic target and operably coupled to the support mechanism, the backdrop having: at least one side surface; and a bottom surface, the bottom surface forming a tray for the receipt of tossed ferromagnetic game pieces that do not magnetically adhere to the magnetic target, wherein the three-dimensional backdrop envelops the magnetic target on the at least one side and the bottom side.

7. A magnetic toss game as in claim 6, wherein movement of the external covering alters the magnetic field emanating from the magnetic target.

8. A magnetic toss game as in claim 6, wherein movement of the magnetic target and magnetically permeable portion of the external covering selectively alters the magnetic field emanating from the magnetic target.

9. A magnetic toss game as in claim 6, wherein the magnetic target is an electromagnet, and wherein the magnetic field of the magnetic target can be selectively controlled.

10. A magnetic toss game as in claim 6, wherein the ferromagnetic game piece is a bottle cap.

11. A magnetic toss game as in claim 6, wherein the backdrop includes a rib, the rib forming a rim for the tray at the bottom side of the backdrop.

12. A magnetic toss game as in claim 11, wherein the backdrop operates as a carrying case for the game.

13. A magnetic toss game as in claim 6, wherein the support mechanism is a vertical pole.

14. A magnetic toss game as in claim 6, wherein the support mechanism is coupled to a hook, the hook cable of hanging the game from a door.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) The invention can be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments of the invention, in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

(2) FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a magnetic toss game in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention;

(3) FIGS. 2A-H are views of three-dimensional targets in accordance with example embodiments of the invention;

(4) FIG. 3 is a plan view of a three dimensional target in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention;

(5) FIG. 4A-B are a plan views of a three dimensional targets in accordance with example embodiments of the invention;

(6) FIG. 5A is a top view of a three dimensional target with the magnetic field shown, in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention;

(7) FIG. 5B is a isometric view of a three dimensional target as shown in FIG. 5A, in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention;

(8) FIG. 6A is a top view of a three dimensional target with the magnetic field shown, in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention;

(9) FIG. 6B is a isometric view of a three dimensional target as shown in FIG. 6A, in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention;

(10) FIGS. 6C-D are an isometric view of a three dimensional target in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention;

(11) FIGS. 7A-D are an isometric views of an electrically powered three-dimensional target in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention;

(12) FIG. 8 is an isometric view of a three-dimensional target with a plurality of obstacles and/or or varied playing pieces surrounding it in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention;

(13) FIG. 9 is an isometric view of a support mechanism in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention;

(14) FIG. 10 is a side view of showing a connection between the backdrop and target in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention;

(15) FIG. 11 is an isometric view of a table mounted support mechanism in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention;

(16) FIG. 11B is an isometric view of a floor mounted support mechanism including the backdrop device for catching playing pieces, in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention;

(17) FIG. 12 is an isometric view of a table mounted support mechanism and game set-up in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention; and

(18) FIG. 13A-B is an isometric view of a three-dimensional spherical shaped target resembling a soccer ball, in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention.

(19) While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

(20) Referring to FIG. 1, magnetic toss game 10 according to an embodiment of the invention is depicted. The magnetic toss game 10 includes a three-dimensional target 100, a support mechanism 200, a three-dimensional backdrop 300, and a metalized or ferromagnetic playing piece 400. The three-dimensional target 100 is capable of generating a magnetic field and may include designated and segregated scoring regions.

(21) Referring to FIG. 2A-2H, the three-dimensional target 100 can be cylindrical in shape (FIG. 2A) or additional magnetic elements can be added to form additional shapes to increase the difficultly or alter the game play. These three-dimensional target 100 shapes can include, but not be limited to, triangles (FIG. 2B, FIG. 2F), circles (FIG. 2G) or concentric circles (FIG. 2C), crosses (FIG. 2D, FIG. 2H), square (FIG. 2E). In another embodiment, the target can be comprised of a plurality of smaller targets, for example the target could be a pyramid of balls. In another embodiment, the target can be moveable or flexible, for example the target could be as series of rigid segments in the shape of a snake with joints between rigid segments to facilitate movement. In another embodiment, the target can be shaped like a physical representation of well-known objects such as a sports ball (FIG. 13A-B), model airplane, automobile, etc.

(22) Referring to FIGS. 3-7, three-dimensional target 100 is capable of generating a magnetic field 110. In some embodiments, the target 100 can be constructed of one or more permanent magnets 101. Magnets 101 can be positioned so that opposite ends are together (North-South N-S) (see FIG. 5A-B), or the magnets 101 can be positioned so that like ends are together (N-N) (see FIG. 6A-B). Metalized or ferromagnetic spacers 102 (as depicted in FIG. 4A) can be used to increase the size, or modify the shape of the target 100 to minimize the need for large or numerous magnets or electrical elements. Metalized or ferromagnetic spacers 102 can also be used to create a variety of magnetic field configurations. In one configuration a thin inner magnet 101 placed in a vertical direction can be surrounded by magnetically permeable poles (FIG. 6C) or the magnets 101 can be discs placed in a horizontal direction with soft iron poles (FIG. 6D). Additionally, booster magnets 113 may be added to configurations to allow for special scoring zones or a boost to magnetic strength. An external covering, sheath or shield 103 on the target 100 can alter the magnetic field 110 of the target 100 such that it modifies the magnetic field 110 spatial distribution to interrupt or concentrate the magnetic field 110 in particular regions.

(23) In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the target 100 utilizes a thin permanent magnet 101, of the rare earth type, adjacent to the magnetically permeable spacer 102 of ANSI 1008 steel. Accordingly, the magnet 101 and spacer 102 are in a stacked configuration to create a larger magnetic body from a minimal of permanent magnet materials 101. Accordingly, the magnet 101 and spacer 102 can be solid or have apertures to reduce material and weight.

(24) The covering or shield 103 can be colored, optically reflective, have different degrees of permeability, offer cushioning or have an elasticity, and can have other lighted (LED light) features such to be coded to resist/repel and/or attract a certain color. In one embodiment, the target 100 may have LED lights within the target and the LED lights may be directly visible by the player and/or the light may be conducted to specific regions of the target via light pipe within the target 100. LED lights may be lit continuously or may operate selectively to add interest, signal information to a player or distract the player. In one embodiment, a series of permanent magnets 101 shaped like rings or washers can be spaced apart by metalized or ferromagnetic spacers 102 and held together by a single nut and bolt or, the series of magnets and spacers can have a solid core with the whole assembly being held together by adhesive between the individual segments or, the external covering 103.

(25) Referring now specifically to FIGS. 4A-4B, in one embodiment, the magnetic field 110 of the target 100 can be manipulated such that it will freely attract external ferromagnetic playing pieces 400 when the target 100 is switched in the ON position. Alternatively, the target 100 will not readily attract ferromagnetic playing pieces 400 when switched to the OFF position. This is accomplished by mechanically reorienting permanent magnets 101 with respect to a series of ferromagnetically permeable spacers 131 and ferromagnteically resistive spacers 130.

(26) Referring now to FIGS. 7A-7D, the target 100 can be constructed of one or more electrical elements capable of producing a magnetic field 110 when energized. In this embodiment, a soft iron core 111 is wrapped with a plurality of turns of electrically conducting wire 112 such that a magnetic field is established through, and directed by, the iron core 111 when electricity flows through the coil of wire 112. The core 111 may have laminations when energized by alternating current electricity or may have either laminations or solid when the coil of wire 112 is energized by direct current. A plurality of coils may be stacked, end-to-end to achieve an active magnetic surface across the entire surface of the target 100.

(27) In another embodiment, the magnetic field 110 of the target 100 can be established electrically by powering an electric coil of wire 112 wrapped around a ferromagnetic core 111. Additionally, this feature can be used to cause the magnetic field 110 to change in orientation or intensify during the game play without being outwardly obvious to the players. In any case, the feature may be used to allow playing only within a specified window of time. The timing aspect is important so that each game set may be metered and playing time is not monopolized by a single player or team. Additionally, a monetary or other value can be assigned to the pre-established play time.

(28) In one embodiment, the three-dimensional target 100 can be shaped or printed in a manner to promote a particular theme such as a sports theme or to advertise products or services. In another embodiment, one or more obstacles 401 can surround target 100 for the purpose of changing the magnetic field 8 and/or altering the three dimensional surface of target 2 (see FIG. 8).

(29) Asymmetry of the target 100 and regions which are more or less available to receive a playing piece 400 to finally adhere may result in increased game challenge and excitement. This feature coupled with the asymmetry of the playing pieces can affect the landing orientations to the target when the playing piece is attracted to the target and can additionally enhance the game challenge. In all embodiments, the target may be printed with advertising or other features as desired by the sponsor or players of the game.

(30) Referring to FIGS. 9-12, support mechanism 200 has two ends 201 and 202. In one embodiment, the first end 201 of the support mechanism 200 is operably coupled to the three-dimensional target 100 and the second end 202 is affixed to a hanging device 203, wherein the support mechanism 200 and target 100 can be suspended from a fixed object such as a door, ledge, shelf, or other similar structure. The hanging device 203 can include one or more hooks, eye screws, removable adhesive holders, suction cup devices, tripods, or clamps.

(31) In another embodiment, the magnetic toss game 100 sits upright relative to a fixed reference point, for example being positioned on top of a table (see FIG. 11, FIG. 12). Accordingly, the target 100 is placed upon a vertical rod 204 received within a base 205, wherein the target 100 is a freestanding object for which game players will toss the game pieces 400 at the target 100.

(32) In a preferred embodiment of the present invention as shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11B, the target 100 is affixed to the support 200 with the target 100 partially surrounded by the backdrop 300. In this configuration, the support 200 includes apertures to receive a pin 240 on an end of the vertical rod 204 with the pin 240 received in a clasp 320 located on a rear of the backdrop 300 and wherein, the support 200 is sandwiched between the clasp 320 and the pin 240 on the vertical rod 204. According to this embodiment, the vertical rod 204 is preferably an adjustable tripod.

(33) As is shown in FIG. 12, the magnetic toss game 10 of the present invention can be configured for play on a table surface. Accordingly, a mat may be placed on the surface and the target 100 positioned on the rod 204 supported by the base 205 in a vertical position. Players would take turns tossing the playing piece 400 at the target 100. According to this configuration for game play, the playing piece 400 may be flipped at the target 100 utilizing a flipping device 403, wherein a user will place the playing piece onto the flipping device 403 and strike the flipping device 403 to propel the playing piece 400 towards the target 100.

(34) In another embodiment, the attachment mechanism includes a lazy Susan so that the magnetic toss game can be turned to face different directions. The lazy Susan can be motorized. In yet another embodiment, the magnetic toss game is attached to a vertical fixed reference point, for example being clamped to a vertical pole. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the target itself is used as its own support and the target may be placed on a table, shelf or the floor. In another embodiment, the target has features that make it possible to physically attach to a supporting member such as an eyelet, hook or other feature designed to secure the target to a reference point. In another embodiment, the target may be magnetically affixed to a point of reference such a ferromagnetic plate on the wall, or, an automobile body panel.

(35) Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 11B, the backdrop 300 has at least one side surface and a bottom surface 302. The backdrop 300 is typically spaced apart from the three-dimensional target 100. In one embodiment, at its closest point, the three-dimensional backdrop 300 is typically spaced from between one inch to one foot from the three-dimensional target 100. The three-dimensional backdrop 300 may be operably coupled to the support mechanism 200. The three-dimensional backdrop 300 can be configured in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be printed or constructed in a variety of materials to promote a particular theme or advertise products or services, as well as other marketing opportunities. The backdrop 300 is generally intended to capture and consolidate tossed pieces 400 that did not adhere to the target 100.

(36) The bottom surface 302 of the three-dimensional backdrop 300, preferably includes a flexible rib 301. The flexible rib 301 configured of a rigid and flexible material adhered to the backdrop 300 to form a tray. The tray designed for the collection and receipt of tossed playing pieces 400 that miss the target 100. The backdrop 300 and tray can be easily folded for transport and used to encompass the target 100, playing pieces 400, and support stand 200, wherein the backdrop 300 forms an enclosure for the transport of the game 10. A secondary feature to the backdrop 300 is to create an optical illusion to obscure the target 100 and/or used to project part of the game 10. For example, the three-dimensional backdrop can resemble a beer can or bottle, football, baseball bat, or basketball. As another example the backdrop 300 could be made to resemble a baseball field, soccer field, racetrack, baseball bat, basketball, store logo, college/NFL/NHL/NBA licensing agreements, or a band logo. In one embodiment, a projector projects a moving image on the backdrop 300. In another embodiment, the backdrop 300 contains lightable elements such as LEDs to decorate the backdrop or enhance the general theme of the particular installation. In the case of LED lighting, the LED lights may be sequenced to obscure the playing environment field of view, indicate a response from a particular play such as a cheer response when a playing piece is landed, represent game features such as a goal post or goal line or facilitate an advertisement.

(37) Various parts of the magnetic toss game 10, including the target 100 and backdrop 300 can be lighted. The lights can have different colored shapes and/or magnetic intensity that can affect scoring of the game. For example, different colored lights can be used to indicate time and where the players need to toss a playing piece 400 for maximum point value. Lights can be on or off for different durations of time to affect the scoring of the game. Lighted feature affects the cadence/speed of the game with different colored lights.

(38) Various parts of the magnetic toss game 10, including the target 100, can include one or more devices for creating sound associated with the game. For example, in one embodiment, the target 100 can respond to impact of playing pieces 400 landing on the target 100 with different audible indications to cheer, boo, and/or provide feedback to the players. In another embodiment, the target 100 can count playing pieces 400 by detecting a sound on impact, by measuring a weight increase, by detecting an object passing a light curtain around the target either individually or in a combined manner. In another embodiment, scoring of the playing pieces 400 can have an optical recognition program for playing pieces that are successfully attracted to the target. In yet another embodiment, the playing pieces 400 can have a RFID chip associated with the playing piece 400 such that a receiver in the target 100 can detect the presence of the playing piece 400 near the target 100. In this case, the game can also distinguish the player or team that landed the piece 400. Playing pieces 400 that localize to the target 100 can have their orientation determined as well as time being counted as another scoring factor. In another embodiment, users can record own sounds for playback during the use.

(39) The magnetic toss game 10 can include least one metalized or ferromagnetic piece 400. In one embodiment, the metalized or ferromagnetic piece 400 can be a bottle cap. In another embodiment, the metalized or ferromagnetic piece 400 can be a disk shaped token. In another embodiment, the metalized or ferromagnetic piece 400 can be in a shape other than a disk, such as a triangle, square, trapezoid, oval, semi-spherical, elliptical, trapezoid and three dimensional embodiments of geometric shapes. Playing pieces 400 can also be constructed by assembling several elemental shapes to form a final playing piece. Asymmetry of the playing piece 400 can affect the aerodynamic aspects of the playing piece as it tossed. Asymmetry of the playing pieces 400 can affect the landing orientations to the target 100 as the playing piece is attracted to the target 100. In one embodiment, the token 400 is magnetized. Token 400 can be colored or numbered for teams or individual play. Token 400 can be printed with advertising to promote a particular product or service.

(40) When the magnetic toss game 10 is in use, the bottom of the three-dimensional target 100 is generally positioned from 4-6 feet off the ground. The backdrop 300 of the target is generally positioned behind the target with respect to the player. Individuals playing the magnetic toss game 10 can generally stand seven feet from the target when throwing their playing pieces.

(41) While the invention has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment(s), it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment(s) but that the invention will include all embodiments falling with the scope of the specification and claims.