U.S. patent application number 11/561743 was filed with the patent office on 2008-05-22 for toss game.
Invention is credited to Keith Knoernschild.
Application Number | 20080116644 11/561743 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39416159 |
Filed Date | 2008-05-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080116644 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Knoernschild; Keith |
May 22, 2008 |
Toss Game
Abstract
A toss game. The game has two casings which sit one within the
other. Each casing has a playing surface. The playing surfaces of
each casing have groups of toss targets. Correlated to each of the
groups of toss targets are groups of scoring indicia. Each target
surface is maintainable above a ground surface location. During
play the casings are positioned an operating distance away from one
another. The casings contain storage space for game components. The
casings also have carrying handles. The game components include
offensive scoring components and defensive components.
Inventors: |
Knoernschild; Keith; (Mt.
Vernon, WA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HUGHES LAW FIRM, PLLC
PACIFIC MERIDIAN PLAZA, SUITE 302, 4164 MERIDIAN STREET
BELLINGHAM
WA
98226-5583
US
|
Family ID: |
39416159 |
Appl. No.: |
11/561743 |
Filed: |
November 20, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
273/336 ;
273/343; 273/402 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2209/08 20130101;
A63B 2067/061 20130101; A63B 2210/50 20130101; A63B 67/06
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
273/336 ;
273/402; 273/343 |
International
Class: |
A63B 67/06 20060101
A63B067/06; F41J 1/00 20060101 F41J001/00 |
Claims
1. A toss target comprising: a. a target surface arranged within a
target plane, said target plane defined by a longitudinal axis and
a transverse axis, said target surface having a female aperture
comprising a circular opening defined by a circumferential surface
area, a receiving component; b. a target section comprising a
substantially cylindrical body, said cylindrical body having a male
base to interoperate with said female aperture, and a diameter
substantially matching said circular opening, said male base
further comprising a connection component to interoperate with said
receiving component of said female aperture; c. said male base
further comprising a top surface, a bottom surface, and a
cylindrical sidewall surface, said cylindrical body further
comprising a male extension section protruding from said male base
section top surface along a vertical axis.
2. The toss target according to claim 1, wherein said toss target
further comprises: a. said receiving component of said female
aperture having a threaded receiving surface; b. said connection
component of said male base having threads arranged to cooperate
with said threaded receiving surface.
3. The toss target according to claim 1 wherein said target section
further comprises: said male extension section being operably
detachable and reconnectable to said male base section.
4. The toss target according to claim 3 wherein said male extension
section further comprises a cylindrical rod, said cylindrical rod
comprising a longitudinal length ranging from about 11/2 inches to
about 12 inches, said cylindrical rod further comprising a diameter
ranging from about 1/4 inches to about 11/2 inches.
5. The toss target according to the claim 3 wherein said male
extension section further comprises a semi cylindrical back wall,
said semi cylindrical back wall comprising a circumferential length
about equal to or less than one half of the circumferential
distance of said female aperture, a longitudinal back wall height
ranging from about his 11/2 inches to about 8 inches.
6. The toss target according to claim 3 wherein said male extension
section further comprises a cylindrical target extension portion
aligned along said vertical axis, said cylindrical target extension
portion further comprising a radially aligned hinge positioned
along an upper surface of said cylindrical target extension
portion, said radially aligned hinge operably connected to a
circular scoring surface.
7. The toss target according to claim 1 wherein said target section
further comprises: said top surface having a conical shape.
8. The toss target according to claim 1 wherein said target section
further comprises: said bottom surface having a conical shape.
9. The toss target according to claim 1 wherein said target section
further comprises: said top surface having either a convex or a
concave shape.
10. The toss target according to claim 1 wherein said target
section further comprises: said bottom surface having either a
convex or a concave shape.
11. The toss target according to claim 1 wherein said target
section can be arranged within said female aperture in a first
target position or a second target position; a. said first target
position comprising said top surface of said male base in
substantially parallel planer alignment with said target surface
and facing the same direction as said target surface with said male
extension section protruding towards said target surface in a
positive vertical direction; b. said second target position
comprising said bottom surface of said male base in substantially
planar parallel alignment with said target surface and facing the
same direction as said target surface with said male extension
section extending away from said target surface in a negative
vertical direction.
12. A toss target casing comprising: a. a target surface arranged
within a target plane, said target plane defined by a longitudinal
axis, a transverse axis, said target surface further comprising a
group of first, second, and third toss targets, said group of toss
targets correlated to a group of first, second, and third scoring
indicia; b. said target surface supported by perimeter support
members, said perimeter support members maintaining said target
surface a casing height above a ground surface; c. each of said
toss targets further comprising: i. a female aperture comprising a
circular opening within said target surface, a receiving component;
ii. a target section comprising a substantially cylindrical body,
said cylinder body having a male base to interoperate with said
female aperture, and a diameter substantially matching said
circular opening, said male base further comprising a connection
component to interoperate with said receiving component of said
female aperture; iii. said male base further comprising a top
surface, a bottom surface, and a cylindrical sidewall surface, said
cylindrical body further comprising a male extension section
protruding from said male base section top surface along a vertical
axis.
13. The toss target casing according to claim 12 wherein said toss
target casing further comprises: said target surface comprising a
rectilinear shape within said target plane, said rectilinear shape
comprising a longitudinal length and a transverse length said
longitudinal length proportionally about two times said transverse
length.
14. The toss target casing according to claim 12 wherein said toss
target casing further comprises said target surface comprising a
circular shape within said target plane.
15. The toss target casing according to claim 12 wherein said
circular opening comprises a range of diameters between about 3
inches diameter and about 6 inches diameter.
16. The toss target casing according to claim 13 wherein said
longitudinal length is about 4 feet and said transverse length is
about 2 feet.
17. The toss target casing according to claim 12 wherein said first
scoring indicia has a value of one point, said second scoring
indicia has a value of three points and said third scoring indicia
has a value of five points.
18. The toss target casing according to claim 12 wherein said
casing further comprises a kick stand operably connected to said
casing along a transversely aligned hinge, said kick stand
configured to position said toss target casing at an angle of
disposition greater than or about equal to 0.degree. from the
ground surface.
19. A kit for a toss game comprising: a. a first target casing
configured to operably seat within a second target casing; b. said
first target casing comprising a first target surface arranged
within a first target plane defined by a longitudinal axis and a
transverse axis, said first target surface further comprising a
first group of first, second, and third toss targets, said first
group of toss targets correlated to a first group of first, second,
and third scoring indicia; c. said first target surface further
comprising perimeter support members located an inset distance from
the perimeter edge of said target surface, said perimeter support
members maintaining said target surface a casing height above a
ground surface; d. said second target casing comprising a second
target surface arranged within a second target plane defined by a
second longitudinal axis and second transverse axis, said second
target surface further comprising a second group of first, second,
and third toss targets, said second group of toss targets
correlated to a second group of first, second, and third scoring
indicia; e. said second target surface further comprising perimeter
support members arranged about the perimeter edge of said second
target surface and further configured to accept said first
perimeter support members when said first target casing is
operatively seated within said second target casing; f. one or both
of said first or said second target casings having a set of storage
compartments to store one or more scoring components, one or more
defensive components, and one or more toss targets; g. one or both
of said first or said second target casings comprising a carrying
handle; h. said first target casing and said second target casing
separable to be arranged and operating distance away from one
another while supported on said ground surface during a playing
session.
20. The kit according to claim 19 wherein said one or more scoring
components comprise a scoring component ring comprising an inner
diameter of about 2 inches to about 12 inches, an outer diameter of
about 31/2 inches to about 14 inches.
21. The kit according to claim 19 wherein said one or more scoring
components comprise a U-shaped scoring component, said U-shaped
scoring component comprising two laterally protruding equidistant
legs attached to a longitudinally aligned base.
22. The kit according to the claim 19 wherein said one or more
scoring components comprise a spherical shape, said spherical shape
comprising one or more of the following: a rubber ball, a beanbag,
a golf ball.
23. The kit according to claim 19 wherein said one or more scoring
components comprise a dart comprising a head portion arranged at a
fore end of a cylindrical body, a plurality of tail fins arranged
radially about an aft end of said cylindrical body.
24. The kit according to claim 19 wherein said one or more
defensive components comprise a beanbag, a disk.
25. The kit according to claim 19 wherein said kit further
comprises a golf ramp operably attachable to one or more edges of
either said first target surface or said second target surface.
26. A method for a toss game comprising: a. arranging a first
target casing an operating distance away from a second target
casing; i. said first target casing comprising a first group of
first, second, and third toss targets, said first group of toss
targets correlated to a first group of first, second, and third
scoring indicia; ii. said second target casing comprising a second
group of first, second, and third toss targets, said second group
of toss targets correlated to a second group of first, second, and
third scoring indicia; b. choosing a first player and a second
player; c. said first player choosing a first group of first,
second, and third scoring components; a first group of first,
second, and third defensive components; d. said second player
choosing a second group of first, second, and third scoring
components; a second group of first, second, and third defensive
components; e. said first player taking an offensive position and
said second player taking a defensive position; f. said first
player in said offensive position standing behind one of said first
or second target casings, and said second player in said defensive
position standing behind the opposite target casing to said first
player; g. said first player tossing in succession said first group
of said first, second, and third scoring components at said first
or second group of toss targets; h. said second player optionally
tossing in succession said second group of said first, second, and
third defensive components to aerially intercept said first group
of first, second, and third scoring components.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] a) Background Art
[0002] U.S. Pat. No. 6,866,268 discloses a tossing game having an
apparatus which appears to be a flat board, a target surface, a
number of tossing discs, and a scoring peg. A number of games are
provided within the same board or apparatus. In one method, each
player tosses three rings on to the target surface. The toss is
scored according to the landing position of the rings and the
scoring position of a "power key". The first player to reach the
top score wins.
[0003] In the Summary of the Invention section as seen in col. 1
starting around line 40, "one aspect of the invention comprises a
target board, a scoring peg, and a plurality of tossing disks."
Further down at line 52, "the scoring peg, sometimes referred to as
the "power key" can be moved among three different scoring
receptacles, one corresponding to each target hole on the top
surface. Although the scoring receptacles may be only on one side
of the rails," the receptacles are on both sides in the preferred
embodiment". Further down in line 62, "the tossing disks . . . due
to their torical shape, are specifically designed to enhance their
flight characteristics and improve friction interaction between
rings and top surface. Additionally, the tossing rings include
inserts or markings thereon, designating one of each set as the
"power ring,"
[0004] U.S. Pat. No. 6,464,226 discloses a washer toss game and
method of playing the game, which includes a number of game boards.
Each board has a first board member and a second board member
connected to one another. The board members have a top side with a
number of holes. Numbers are displayed on the top side next to the
holes and the game has a number of washers for tossing on the game
boards into the holes from a predetermined distance. The edges
between the game board pieces are configured to interlock with one
another. In the Summary of the Invention section in col. 1 at line
59, "the present invention generally comprises a plurality of game
boards each having a first board member and a second board member
being connected to the first board member with each of the board
members further having a top side and a plurality of holes disposed
on the top side and numbers displayed upon the top side adjacent to
the holes."
[0005] U.S. Pat. No. 6,341,780 discloses a disc tossing game, where
the game has a first and second board and uses a number of discs.
Each board has three bores or holes. The first bore indicates five
points, the second bore indicates three points, and the third bore
indicates one point. The boards are placed approximately 10 feet
apart. Players stand on the edge of one of the boards and toss
rings towards the bores to try to score points. Each turn of 4
tosses defines a series. One point is received for having all 4
discs on the board. The game is won by acquiring 21 points and
hitting the board with any remaining discs held within that series.
In the Summary of the Invention section in col. 1 starting at line
66, "the present invention generally comprises a game and method of
playing the same. The game includes a first board, a second board
and a plurality of disks. The first board has three bores therein.
The bores are generally aligned. The Second board is substantially
identical to the first board. The point indicia are located on the
first and second boards and are adjacent to each of the bores. The
indicia adjacent to a first outside bore indicating five points.
The indicia are adjacent to the middle bore indicating three
points. The indicia are adjacent to the second outside bore
indicating one point. A plurality of disks is used for tossing into
the bores. Two players or two pair of players may play. The first
bores are placed approximately 10 feet from the second board. The
players stand on an edge of one of the bores and toss the rings
toward the bores in the other of bores. Each player or pair of
players tosses four of the disks. Each turn of four tosses to find
a series. All points are added as indicated by the indicia
corresponding to each bore as the first player's disk in. One point
is received for having all four disks on the board. The game is won
by acquiring 21 points and hitting the board with any remaining
disks for that series.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 6,296,249 discloses a disc tossing/target
receiving game with surface features; the game has a rectilinear
target with convex landing surface and pockets arranged within the
target. Players toss the discs onto the target apparatus to score
points according to the rules. The discs and the target create the
appearance of impossibility of entering certain scores while
creating actual possibility developing skills to score. The board
is lined with a frictionless-type surface and has flanges around
the edges which help to retain the discs when they hit the board.
The convex surface makes it more difficult to score. In the Summary
of the Invention section starting at around line 51, "the target
apparatus and disks are designed in such a way that the interaction
between the target apparatus and disks are unexpected and varied."
Furthermore in col. 2 around line 15, "the current invention
requires more interesting and challenging means of successfully
placing the disks into scoring positions. Errant bounces of the
disks experienced with past games are nearly eliminated by the
current invention. This greatly increases the importance of skill
and reduces the component of chance involved in scoring points."
For example, as seen in col. 3 of the preferred embodiment, around
line 4, "the convex playing surface causes the disks to veer away
from the pockets, but the convex nature of the playing surface is
not normally noticed. This creates the appearance of a possibility
of sliding the disks into pockets and when it is in fact nearly
possible." Furthermore, at line 43 still in col. 3, "Example 2 to
the same as Example 1 except that the playing surface of the target
apparatus is made planar instead of convex. This significantly
reduces the difficulty of accomplishing the disks into the scoring
pockets and most particularly reduces the difficulty of
accomplishing the disks into the scoring pockets."
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 5,575,480 discloses a toss game apparatus for
alternative use as a target for throwing projectiles or as a
support for an individual playing the toss game which includes a
frame and a top panel mounted on the frame and deflectable relative
to the frame. In the Disclosure of the Invention section in col. 2
around line 11, "the present invention incorporates unique
structure which enhances the gaming characteristics of the
apparatus. The apparatus includes a top panel which is deflectable
to some extent and co-operable with other structural elements to
allow deflection of the top panel during play to absorb energy of
projectiles while still serving as a proper and adequate support
for an individual standing on the top panel when throwing
projectiles to apparatus of like construction. Further more, the
top panel of the apparatus is covered by carpeting of a specific
character to both protect the top panel and encourage retention of
tossed projectiles thereon."
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 5,316,310 discloses a disk toss game which
includes a game mat having a smooth surface and textured surface;
both surfaces have surface indicia for designating target areas for
a disk which is tossed on to the game mat. As seen in col. 2 two in
the Summary of the Invention section around line 50, "the invention
provided is a new and improved disk toss game, which is
characterized by an elongated, flexible plastic, rubber or
composite mat of selected length, width and thickness and having a
"memory", a smooth surface and a textured surface, with at least
one target indicia provided on both mat surfaces and a disk adapted
for tossing the target indicia on the mat, which disk is
characterized by a tapered, weighted edge segment and three hollow
cavities partially filled with a freely shifting particulate
material to enhance the skill necessary to toss the disk into close
proximity to the target indicia."
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 4,974,858 discloses a tossing game for indoor
or outdoor use similar to horseshoes which includes two boards
positioned and spaced apart in vertical alignment. The players
stand behind a particular board and throw washers into holes
located in the opposite board. In the preferred embodiment, three
holes are positioned in each board and are given different scoring
readings. Two identical wood boards may be covered with a soft
material, such as carpeting, to prevent washers from bouncing when
thrown. In a second embodiment, grooves are provided between the
holes. The grooves prevent washers from being tossed and rolled on
their edges into a particular aperture. In the Summary of the
Invention section in the second paragraph, "the present invention
utilizes two boards which are designed to be placed in vertical
alignment approximately four feet apart between their closest ends.
Players stand behind a particular board and throw projectiles, such
as washers, into holes in the opposed board. Each board may be
provided with a plurality of aligned holes which reflect different
scores depending upon the distance from a player. The identical
boards may be covered with a soft material, such as carpeting or
the like, to prevent the washers from bouncing too much when the
land on the board. Additionally, grooves may be provided in the
boards between the scoring holes so that washers may also be tossed
and subsequently rolled within a groove so as to fall into one of
the scoring apertures."
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 4,936,590 discloses a portable pitch game
which is a self-contained target/toss-type game comprised of two
multi-aperture rectangular platforms. Colored aperture disc
projectiles are supplied in sets of six, one set for each player. A
player stands on the edge of one platform and tosses discs in an
attempt drop them through one of the apertures in the second
platform. The apertures are scored one, two, three according to
distance away from the thrower. Separable hinges and latches are
included for attaching the two rectangular platforms together into
a storage or carrying case. In a special embodiment, the discs and
a ring around the apertures are colored with a non-toxic light
chargeable coating which produces a glow effect in a darkened
environment. In the Summary of the Invention section "in practicing
my invention I have developed a portable, self-contained target/top
tossed-type game comprised of two, multi-aperture rectangular
platform receptacles and multiple flat, aperture, colored disk
projectiles." Further down in the same first paragraph, "the object
of the game is to throw the disks with the purpose of having them
pass through one of the three apertures located on the platform
receptacle and being retained under the platform in a compartment
for the particular aperture."
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 4,927,161 discloses a chip shot game which has
two platforms with three circular holes in each platform. The
platforms are joined together with a chain or other linkage at a
fixed distance. A player stands on top of the platform at the end
where the linkage is fastened. The player will toss, pitch, or lob
all three disks one at a time towards the other platform in an
attempt to hit one of the three holes. Each hole is worth a
particular number of points. In the Summary of the Invention
section, "In accordance with the present invention, a new and
useful projectile throwing game is disclosed which employs at least
two target tray structures and a plurality of projectiles. Two or
four players may play this game. The game consists of two platforms
with three circular holes in each platform. These platforms are
joined together with a chain or other linkage at a fixed distance.
A player stands on top of the platform at the end where the linkage
is fastened. This player will toss, pitch, or lob a disc towards
the other platform trying to hit one of the holes. Each hole is
worth a particular number of points. Generally a player who scores
the first 21 points wins the game."
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the game kit;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the target casing;
[0014] FIG. 2A is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of the
target casing;
[0015] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a toss game with the game
kit;
[0016] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a putting game with the
game kit;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a detail elevational view of the toss target;
[0018] FIG. 4A-4F are perspective detail views of alternative
embodiments of the male base;
[0019] FIG. 5 is an elevational detail view of the toss target and
male extension sections;
[0020] FIG. 6 is an elevational detail view of an alternative
embodiment of the toss target;
[0021] FIG. 7 is an elevational detail view of an alternative
embodiment of the toss target;
[0022] FIG. 8 is an elevational detail view of an alternative
embodiment of the toss target;
[0023] FIG. 8A, 8B, 8E, 8F, and 8G, are detail views of the scoring
components;
[0024] FIG. 8C and FIG. 8D are detail views of the defensive
components;
[0025] FIG. 9 is a detail plan view of the game kit;
[0026] FIG. 10 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the
target casing;
[0027] FIG. 11 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the
target casing.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0028] Referring to FIG. 1, a game kit 10 is provided in the
current embodiment. The game kit has a first target casing 12 and a
second target casing 14. The first target casing 12 has a first
target surface 16. This first target surface 16 can generally be
made of a wooden type construction such as plywood, also molded or
formed plastic, or any other rigid material which would provide for
creation of the target casing 12. The first target surface 16 can
be covered with a target covering such as carpeting, Astroturf, or
a polyvinyl or rubber-type material depending on the desired
surface characteristics of the target surface. The game kit second
target casing 14 also has a second target surface 18 having the
same properties as the first target surface 16.
[0029] Referring to both FIGS. 1 and 2, each of the first and
second target surfaces have a group of toss targets. For example,
the first target surface 16 as seen in FIG. 2 has a first group of
toss targets 20. While the toss targets in the current embodiment
include three toss targets, other ranges of toss targets are
clearly envisioned such as one, two, four, six, eight, and
multiples thereof. In the first group of toss targets 20, there is
in this current embodiment a first toss target 26, a second toss
target 24, and a third toss target 22. The first toss target 26 is
located in this particular embodiment towards the fore end 37 of
the first target surface 16. Similarly, the third toss target 22 is
located towards the aft end 39 of the target surface.
[0030] Correlated to the first group of toss targets 20 are a first
group of scoring indicia 34. In the particular embodiment shown,
the first group of scoring indicia 34 has a first scoring indicia
32 which is correlated to the first toss target 26, a second
scoring indicia 30 which is correlated to the second toss target
24, and a third scoring indicia 28 which is correlated to the third
toss target 22. Each of the scoring indicia can be assigned
different values depending on the game choice. For example, the
first scoring indicia 32 can be valued as one point, the second
scoring indicia 30 can be valued as three points and the third
scoring indicia 28 can be valued as five points.
[0031] The target casings 12 and 14 as seen in FIG. 1 are shown in
the present embodiment as a rectilinear type shape. Referring to
FIG. 2, the target casing is arranged in this particular embodiment
along a longitudinal axis 2 and a transverse axis 3 define a target
plane 4 within which the target surface 16 is positioned.
[0032] While the present embodiment is shown as a rectilinear
shape, other shapes are clearly envisioned. For example, as seen in
FIG. 2A, a circular target surface 41 is provided which has a
circumferential perimeter support member 43. In this particular
embodiment, there are in the group of toss targets 20, a first toss
target 26, a second toss target 24, third toss target 22, and a
fourth toss target 27.
[0033] As seen in FIG. 1, the game kit's first target casing 12 can
be seated within the second target casing 14. In order to seat the
first target casing within the second target casing, the first
perimeter support member sidewalls 36 of the first target casing
may be offset an inset distance longitudinally and transversely
from the second casing perimeter support member 38. Referring to
FIG. 9, the inset distance 143 is a distance which is about the
same distance or slightly greater than the width of the perimeter
members as secured to their respective ends by a securing means 142
such as a threaded screw, nail or some other type of securing
apparatus. A volume is left on the interior portion of the target
casings so that game components can be stored within the casing
during travel. During such travel or transportation and/or
relocation of the game kit 10, the user will utilize a carrying
handle 17 connected to either one of the first or second target
casings.
[0034] Discussion of the game components which include the toss
target, the defensive game components, and the offensive game
components will now be provided.
[0035] Referring to FIG. 4, a toss target 50 is shown in one
embodiment as being arranged radially about a vertical or central
axis 55. The toss target 50 currently has two elements, the target
section 56 and the female aperture 52. The female aperture is an
opening defined by a perimeter surface area. The toss target is
configured as an upright target extending from the female aperture,
or an inverted target which is essentially just a flat surface or a
truncated-type surface to receive a scoring or defensive component
to be discussed below, or the toss target can be just the female
aperture leaving a void of some sort for the scoring components to
fall into.
[0036] The target section 56 is shown in a positive vertical
direction 102 where the male rod section 68 is connected to the top
surface 62 of a male base 58. The male base 58 also has a bottom
surface 64. The male base and male rod sections are configured as
cylindrical shapes. Other shapes such as cubic, spherical etc are
unusual. The male base 58 has a cylindrical sidewall surface 66
which acts as the interface with the female aperture 52 receiving
component 54. The receiving component 54 is a threaded receiving
surface, but can also be other types of connections not limited to
a magnetic surface, metallic surface or other type of securing
mechanisms such as spring-loaded pins and the like. The connection
component 60 of the cylindrical sidewall surface 66, as well as a
portion of the bottom surface 64 of the male base 58, can have
corresponding threads along the outer cylindrical sidewall 66, or
the portion of the bottom surface 64 can be of an opposing polarity
of a magnetic surface or metallic-type material as well as having
for example either a mating recess or spring-loaded mechanism to
mate with the receiving component 54 of the female aperture 52.
[0037] This current embodiment, as seen in FIG. 4, of the female
aperture 52 is a circular opening through the target surface 16
which has an opening diameter 51. This opening diameter ranges from
approximately 11/2 inches in diameter to approximately 8 inches in
diameter depending on the desired aperture size.
[0038] The male base 58 is sized according to the opening diameter
51 and has a male base diameter 53 which correlates to around the
same diameter as the female aperture opening diameter 51.
[0039] As previously mentioned above, the toss target 50 in this
particular embodiment has a first target position 100 which is a
positive vertical upright position 102. The top surface 62 is
essentially in coplanar alignment with the target surface 16. In an
alternative embodiment, the male extension or rod section 68 is
made of two components: a detachable rod section 120 and a secured
rod portion 121. These two pieces can be separated from one another
so that other detachable components can be secured to the male base
section 58. The secured rod portion 121 in one embodiment has a
threaded outer surface which would mate with the threaded inner
surface of the cylindrical detachable rod 120. The cylindrical
detachable rod 120 can range in sizes from approximately 11/2
inches in height to approximately 12 inches in height, having a
diameter range of approximately 1/4 inches in diameter to
approximately 11/2 inches in diameter.
[0040] Referring to FIG. 5, the toss target 50 is shown in a second
target position 110. In order to seal off the female apertures 52
and keep the contents within the game kit 10 (FIG. 1) from falling
out of the female aperture, the toss target 50 and the target
section 56 can be inverted where the bottom surface 64 of the male
base 58 is coplanar with the target surface 16. The top surface 62
of the male base 58 is positioned in a negative vertical direction
112 facing away from the target surface 16. The threaded detachable
extension rods 120 are shown in a stored position and secured
within the game kit 10 by securing means 114, which can include a
strap, casing or an inset pocket in some form.
[0041] In an alternative embodiment (referring to FIG. 6), the toss
target 50 is configured as a recessed receiving cup, where the
target section 56 has a top surface 122 which is split into two
different vertical components, connected by a cylindrical sidewall
124. The bottom surface 126 extends down into the inner region of
the casing and the male rod section 68, connected still to the top
surface 122 within the target section 56, projects upwards in a
positive vertical direction 102. The detachable rod portion 120 can
be removed from the secured rod portion 121 so that scoring
components, which will be described below, can fall into the inner
region of the toss target 50. This particular type of configuration
is useful for the putting game which we will describe below as well
as the dart game or the ball toss game.
[0042] Referring to FIG. 7, another alternative embodiment of the
toss target 50 includes the target section 56 being positioned
towards the aft end of the female aperture 52 where the target
section 56 acts as a back wall shaped in a semi cylindrical
configuration 140. As seen in FIG. 7, the toss target 50 is
arranged in the first target position 130 with the top surfaces 134
and 136 in parallel planar alignment with the target surface 16.
The cylindrical sidewall 138 acts as a connection between the top
surface 134 and the top surface 136 in the inner portion of the
toss target 150. In this particular embodiment, the scoring
component 150 is configured as a ball and the user may toss the
ball in some fashion to hit the semi cylindrical back wall 140
enabling the ball to fall into the toss target 50. The semi
cylindrical back wall may be orientated circumferentially along the
perimeter edge of the aperture for variations of the game.
[0043] Referring to FIG. 8, another alternative embodiment of the
toss target 50 includes a circular target section positioned in a
first position 200. Here the male base 58 is configured (as
previously discussed and seen in FIG. 4), where the secured rod
portion 121 is configured as a cylindrical rod with a threaded
outer portion and connected to the top surface 62 of the male base
58. A cylindrical target extension portion 120 configured as a
cylindrical shaft having an inner surface with threaded interior
alignment to connect to the secured rod portion is provided. At the
upper end of the cylindrical shaft, is a target hinge 123. The
target hinge is connected to the circular scoring surface 204. The
target hinge 123 is configured in this particular embodiment as a
spring-loaded hinge although the target hinge does not have to be
spring-loaded. The front surface of the circular scoring surface
204 may optionally be covered with an outer covering such as a hook
and loop-type fastener material such as the loop portion of a
Velcro.TM. mating system or may even be a clear plastic material.
In this particular embodiment, scoring rings 202 are provided to
indicate the degree of accuracy. The user would then utilize one of
the below-mentioned scoring components such as the dart scoring
component 180 as seen in FIG. 8F. The forehead 184 of the dart
scoring component 180 may optionally have at its fore end the
opposite portion of the hook and loop-type fastener such as the
hook portion. The forehead 184 may be detachable in some manner
when the dart scoring component 180 impacts the circular scoring
surface 204.
[0044] Additional alternative embodiments of the target section 56
will now be discussed. Generally speaking these various shapes add
a level of skill and difficulty to the tossing of the washer
component as will be discussed below onto the surface to maintain a
particular score during play.
[0045] Referring to FIGS. 4A through 4F, the top surface 62 of the
scoring component can be a conical shape 70 (as seen in FIG. 4A).
Alternatively, the bottom surface 64 of the scoring component can
be a conical shape 72 (as seen in FIG. 4B) The target section (as
seen in FIG. 4C) can also be configured as a concave shape for the
top surface 62 and alternatively (as seen in FIG. 4D), the top
surface can be a convex shape 74. Furthermore, the bottom surface
(as seen in FIG. 4E) can be configured as a concave shape 78 or the
bottom surface can be configured (as seen in FIG. 4F) as a convex
shape 80.
[0046] In order to play the toss game, the user will have to
utilize the scoring components and the optional defensive
components contained within the game kit. Discussion of the scoring
components and the defensive components as provided in this
particular embodiment will now be provided.
[0047] Referring to FIG. 8A, a score component ring 160 is
provided. The ring 160 has an inner diameter 164 and an outer
diameter 162. The ring also has a ring thickness 166. Each ring
design has a material thickness depending upon the particular
material of which the ring is constructed. The ring may be
constructed of metal, plastic, wood, or other suitable material for
tossing the ring. In one particular embodiment, the ring has a
material component of galvanized steel and is configured with an
inner diameter 164 of approximately 2 inches and an outer diameter
of approximately 31/2 inches with a ring thickness of approximately
3/4 inch. The size of the ring depends on the type of toss game
being played with the game kit 10. For example, the users may wish
to toss washers at the scoring component with a male rod section
68. In that particular embodiment, the male rod section 68 may be
configured approximately to a 3-inch height with a 3/4-inch
diameter shaft and the users can score by throwing the metal
washers onto the cylindrical shaft ring or having the washers touch
the outer surface of the shaft ring.
[0048] In other embodiments of the ring scoring component 160, the
ring is configured as a Frisbee-type arrangement where the outer
diameter of the ring ranges from approximately 6 inches to
approximately 12 inches depending on the particular distance and
skill for tossing or throwing the Frisbee.
[0049] In addition to a ring component 160, a U-shaped scoring
component 170 (as seen in FIG. 8B) can be utilized. The U-shaped
scoring component has a leg height 172 and a base width 174 which
can vary depending on the particular embodiment desired. One
embodiment of the U-shaped component 170 would be a horseshoe
U-shaped scoring component 170 constructed of various materials
such as metal, plastic or a lighter type of material such as a
carbon fiber construction.
[0050] Two types of defensive scoring components are shown in FIGS.
8C and 8 D. In FIG. 8C, a disk defensive component 154 is
provided.
[0051] During the game play, a defensive player has the option of
using various defensive scoring components, a few of which are
shown in FIGS. 8C and 8D. The purpose of the defensive scoring
components is to effectively block the offensive scoring components
through an aerial interception. While it is possible that the
defensive score components could essentially be the offensive
scoring components but used in a defensive manner, some defensive
scoring components can be specifically designed for catching and/or
knocking the offensive scoring components out of aerial alignment
with the toss targets.
[0052] FIG. 8C shows a defensive scoring component which is
configured as a disk defensive component 154. The disk is
constructed of a fabric such as cotton, nylon, or other type of
material. The disk has an outer diameter which can range from
approximately 3 inches to approximately 10 or 12 inches depending
on the distances that the players will be tossing the defensive
component. The disk as an inner wall 158 which may be a single,
double or triple ply fabric material but does not contain any other
type of inner region type weighted material. The outer region of
the disk is defined by a cylindrically arranged tubular outer wall
156 which is selectively filled with sand, or other type of
material which provides for weight but does not provide much in the
way of structural rigidity.
[0053] Along the same lines, a beanbag defensive component 152 is
provided which has an outer wall constructed of the same type of
material as the disk defensive component, that being cotton, nylon
or other type of fabric. The beanbag defensive component can be
sewn together along the edges and can be arranged as a cube, a semi
cylindrical type shape, etc.
[0054] While the two above-mentioned embodiments of the defensive
component are provided, other designs and shapes which can be
configured to capture, deflect, intercept in some manner, the
scoring component during aerial flight are clearly envisioned.
[0055] Other scoring components are also envisioned for the use of
derivative games which will be discussed below. Referring to FIG.
8E, a spherical scoring component 150 is provided. This type of
spherical scoring component can be a rubber ball, beanbag, golf
ball, inflatable ball or other type of sphere which can be used to
toss, roll, putt or kick towards the target.
[0056] Referring now to FIGS. 8F and 8G, a dart scoring component
180 is provided. As previously mentioned above, the dart scoring
component has a cylindrical shaft 182 which may be composed of a
foam or Nerf-type material, or may be more along the lines of a
wooden shaft or rubber-type material depending on the desired use.
At the fore end is a cylindrical forehead 184. This head as
previously discussed is designed to interact with the circular
scoring surface 204 of the circular target section 200 as
previously mentioned in FIG. 8. Towards the aft end of the dart
scoring component 180 are a plurality or number of tail fins 186
which are radially aligned and as seen in FIG. 8G, are
equidistantly spaced from one another dividing the cylindrical
shaft into quadrants. The tail fins 186 provide for aerial
alignment of the dart scoring component 180 is it is catapulted
towards the toss target 56.
[0057] Because the game kit as indicated above can be utilized for
various game types of tossing, throwing, rolling, or putting, a
brief discussion of some of the more common type of games enabled
by this game kit will now be provided.
[0058] Referring to FIG. 3, a toss game 300 is shown. The game can
be played by two players against one another each switching
offensive and defensive sides, or a foursome can play where teams
of two play offense and defense or just offense depending upon the
desired game scenario.
[0059] One version of the rules will now be discussed. The toss
game 300 is played to a total of 22 points. The present embodiment
as seen in FIG. 3 shows a first player 306, a second player 308, a
third player 309, and a fourth player 311. The rules will be
discussed for just a single offensive and defensive player but the
game as previously mentioned can be played with two or more
individuals on a team. Each side flips a coin to determine who
tosses the first washer or scoring component 160. Each offensive
player is allowed to throw each of the scoring components from his
first group of scoring components 312. Each defensive player is
allowed to throw during an offensive play, a defensive component
152 from the group of defensive components 314. A winning set of
tosses occurs when three scoring components are thrown onto the
same toss target such as a first toss target 26, a second toss
target 24, or a third toss target 22, referring back to FIG. 2.
[0060] Points accumulated by an offensive player can be canceled
out by the player's opponent who can throw and score the same value
as the first player, thus either bringing down the score of the
first player 306 or eliminating the first players score and
generating an automatic win through three successive scoring events
on a toss target.
[0061] If a player during an offensive play makes more than 22
points, that player must then restart from the zero position.
[0062] As previously discussed, each player during a defensive play
can utilize a defensive component 152, the defensive component
configured as previously discussed as a beanbag defensive component
152, a disk defensive component 154 or variations thereof. The
purpose of the defensive component 152 is to intercept the
offensive components 160 during the offensive players attempt to
score on one of the targets in the toss target group 22. The
defensive component 152 must aerially intercept the offensive
component 160.
[0063] Once a defensive component 152 has been utilized, it cannot
be reused until the end of the offensive players turn. In one
embodiment of the game, the defensive component 152 can only be
tossed underhand. In another embodiment of the game, a foul will
occur when the defensive player accidentally or purposefully hits
the offensive player with a defensive component 152. A foul
translates into an additional scoring opportunity for the current
offensive player.
[0064] Once a player scores a total of 22 points, that player no
longer has to attempt to score and can bypass his offensive turn,
and just play defense. In order to successfully make a scoring
attempt, the player must stand behind the aft end of the opposite
target surface 16 anywhere behind an imaginary line which extends
parallel transversely along the aft end of the target casing. Each
of the target casings 12 and 14 during play are placed
approximately an operating distance 302 of approximately 5 to 10
feet apart depending on the agreement of the players and their
desired level of difficulty.
[0065] Once an offensive component 160 leaves the hand of an
offensive player, for example first player 306, the offensive
component is in play. If the offensive player 306 accidentally
drops an offensive component 160, that particular component is also
considered in play and player loses his or her turn in utilizing
that particular offensive component 160 to make a score during an
offensive turn.
[0066] Furthermore, only one offensive component 160 can be tossed
at a time. A defensive component 152 can only be tossed at a
vertical elevation or higher, thus it must reach an arc apex after
it leaves the hand of the defensive player 308. If the toss of the
defensive component 152 is downward and never begins an upward
vertical arc, such a toss will be considered a foul and the
offensive player receives an additional opportunity or toss, to
make a scoring event. A scoring event occurs when the offensive
component 160 for example: lands and stays on a board or target
surface 16; lands within a particular range and stays within a
particular range of a toss target; makes contact and stays on
contact with a toss target; connects to a toss target; or falls
into a toss target.
[0067] It is likely that a defensive component 152 may make contact
and fall onto a target surface 16 or 18. When removing the
defensive components from the target surface, no movement of the
offensive components already resting on the target surfaces can be
made. If a player either purposefully or accidentally moves an
offensive component, the offensive component must be placed back in
its proper position in relation to the target surface 16 or 18, and
the defensive player for example 308, who was removing his
defensive component 152 from the target surface, will receive a
foul and the offensive player whose offensive component was moved,
receives an opportunity for an extra scoring event.
[0068] In another version of the game, referring to FIG. 3A, a
player 336 can utilize a golf club 332 and a scoring component 150
which in this particular embodiment is a golf ball. The player can
attach a golf ramp 334 which is essentially comprised of one or two
surfaces, one which is in angular relation between the ground
surface and the upper fore transversely aligned edge of the target
casing 14 and another horizontally aligned surface which is
attached to the bottom edge of the angularly aligned surface. The
player 336 putts the ball 150 up the ramp and tries to score points
into the scoring targets or the group of scoring targets 20 which
are arranged as the female apertures previously discussed in FIG.
4.
[0069] In another embodiment of the game, the target casings 12 or
14 as seen in FIGS. 10 and 11 can be placed at an angle of
disposition 161. The angle is held in place through the use of an
actuated kickstand 163 which is optionally attached to the base of
the target casing. By placing the target surface 16 at an angle of
disposition 161, it makes the scoring of the scoring component 160
which in this case is configured as a Frisbee, more difficult and
challenging when trying to hook the scoring component 160 onto say
for example the target section 56 with the protruding detachable
rod 120. The kickstand 163 length can be adjusted based on a
coupling mechanism which is readily available in the art.
[0070] Another use of the kickstand 163 to maintain the target
casing and the target surface 16 at the angle of disposition 161 is
through the use of a rolling ramp 151 which attaches to the fore
edge 153 and enables a user to roll a scoring component 150 which
in this particular embodiment is a rubber ball, up the rolling ramp
151 and launches the scoring component 150 into a brief aerial
trajectory, where the objective is to have the scoring component
150 land on the target surface 16 and hit one of the semi
cylindrical back walls 140 to fall into the cup of the target
section 56.
* * * * *