U.S. patent application number 12/919271 was filed with the patent office on 2011-01-13 for rotational-magnetic construction set.
This patent application is currently assigned to Jonathan M. GURDIN. Invention is credited to Jonathan M. Gurdin, Bradley E. Paden, Josiah E. Verkaik.
Application Number | 20110009028 12/919271 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41377458 |
Filed Date | 2011-01-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110009028 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gurdin; Jonathan M. ; et
al. |
January 13, 2011 |
ROTATIONAL-MAGNETIC CONSTRUCTION SET
Abstract
An amusement device concerned generally with a construction type
educational toy. The amusement device provides unique functionality
via board design and piece structure allowing relative motion
between coupled playing pieces. The construction apparatus is of
the type having rotary path-forming pieces that can be located in
numerous positions on the base board. The pieces are removably
interfitting and allow the construction of variable paths and
patterns. The amusement device incorporates magnetism to perform
relative rotary motion. A circular pattern of permanent magnets are
included in construction pieces to allow numerous magnetically
coupled rotary pieces to undergo relative rotation analogous to a
gear train. In addition to toy or game amusement device, the
present invention also embodies an education and demonstration
device whereby the assembly of magnetically coupled rotary pieces
provides the interactive demonstration of a gear train machine
mechanism.
Inventors: |
Gurdin; Jonathan M.;
(Merlin, OR) ; Verkaik; Josiah E.; (Lompoc,
CA) ; Paden; Bradley E.; (Goleta, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PATENT LAW OFFICE OF D.R. HASZKO;c/o Dennis R. Haszko
499 MOSHER HILL ROAD
FARMINGTON
ME
04938
US
|
Assignee: |
GURDIN; Jonathan M.
Merlin
OR
|
Family ID: |
41377458 |
Appl. No.: |
12/919271 |
Filed: |
March 4, 2009 |
PCT Filed: |
March 4, 2009 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US09/36014 |
371 Date: |
August 25, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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61033722 |
Mar 4, 2008 |
|
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|
61041831 |
Apr 2, 2008 |
|
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|
61146793 |
Jan 23, 2009 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
446/132 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63H 33/26 20130101;
A63F 9/16 20130101; A63F 9/0819 20130101; A63F 9/34 20130101; A63H
33/046 20130101; A63H 1/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
446/132 |
International
Class: |
A63H 33/26 20060101
A63H033/26 |
Claims
1. A construction set comprising: a plurality of magnetized rotary
construction pieces and a journal board adapted for receiving said
magnetized rotary construction pieces within a playing area of
numerous closely-spaced receptacle pivot locations; said magnetized
rotary construction pieces each comprising a body portion and a
centralized axle projection; said axle projection adapted to
removably-fit on said journal board and rotate within said
receptacle pivot locations of said journal board; said body portion
further comprising magnetized elements arranged in a circular
pattern with numerous locations of outward magnetic polarity around
the periphery of said rotary construction pieces; and said
magnetized elements adapted for providing for rotational magnetic
coupling when said magnetized rotary construction pieces are placed
in proximity to each other on said journal board.
2. The construction set of claim 1 wherein said magnetized elements
is a circular pattern of permanent magnets configured to create a
variable outward magnetic field to cause the rotational magnetic
coupling of proximally placed rotary construction pieces.
3. The construction set of claim 2 wherein said magnetized elements
of said magnetized rotary construction pieces are NdFeB permanent
magnets comprising composed mainly of Neodymium (Nd), Iron (Fe) and
Boron (B).
4. The construction set of claim 3 wherein said magnetized elements
of said magnetized rotary construction pieces are block shaped
permanent magnets.
5. The construction set of claim 2, in which said bodies of said
magnetized rotary pieces contain axial slots within said body
portion near the perimeter wherein said magnetized elements are
embedded within.
6. The construction set of claim 2, in which said permanent magnets
are totally encapsulated within said body of said magnetized rotary
construction pieces.
7. The construction set of claim 2, in which said magnetized
elements is a circular array of permanent magnets configured to
have alternating outward magnetic polarity whereas magnetic
coupling is significantly achieved by both attraction and repulsion
between interacting magnets of proximally placed said rotational
magnetic construction pieces.
8. The construction set of claim 7 wherein said magnetized elements
of said magnetized rotary construction pieces are an even number of
permanent magnets.
9. The construction set of claim 2, in which said magnetized
elements is a spaced apart circular array of permanent magnets
configured to all have the same outward polarity whereas magnetic
coupling is achieved primarily by means of repulsion between
interacting magnets of proximally placed rotary construction
pieces.
10. The construction set of claim 1, in which said magnetized
rotary construction pieces are characterized with a substantially
equivalent circular magnetic pitch.
11. The construction set of claim 1, in which said numerous pivot
locations are defined by an array of closely spaced holes.
12. The construction set of claim 1, in which distance between
closely spaced receptacle pivot locations of said journal hole
array are circular holes characterized with a pivot axis and a
diameter whereas said pivot locations within said journal hole
array are provided at a spacing from pivot axis to pivot axis that
is in the range of 1 to 3 times said diameter of said circular
holes.
13. The construction set of claim 1, in which said journal board is
substantially rectangular.
14. The construction set of claim 1, in which said journal board is
in the shape of a polygon.
15. The construction set of claim 1, in which said journal board is
substantially circular.
16. The construction set of claim 1, in which said magnetized
rotary construction pieces are provided in two or more different
sizes.
17. The construction set of claim 1, in which said rotary
construction pieces further comprise pick-and-place means displaced
on said body; said pick-and-place means adapted to facilitate
lifting up said rotary construction pieces and placing said rotary
construction pieces in available receptacle pivot locations on said
journal board.
18. The construction set of claim 17 wherein said pick-and-place
means is a handle extending from said body of said rotary playing
piece(s).
19. The construction set of claim 1, in which said magnetized
rotary construction pieces further comprising visual indication
means to indicate magnetic rotational coupling between said
magnetized rotary construction pieces.
20. The construction set of claim 1, in which further comprises
graphical face plates adapted for removable-attachment to the top
of said magnetized rotary construction pieces; said magnetized
rotary construction pieces further comprising face plate connection
means; said graphical face plates comprising corresponding face
plate retention means for maintaining a fixed co-axial and radial
relationship of said graphical face plates of corresponding said
graphical face plate.
21. The construction set of claim 20 wherein said magnetized rotary
construction pieces comprise a handle of non-circular cross-section
as pick-and-place means.
22. The construction set of claim 21, whereas graphical face plates
comprise central non-circular holes of approximately the same shape
corresponding to said non-circular cross-section of said
handle.
23. The construction set of claim 1, in which said journal board is
made of polymer material suitable for providing low friction
journaling of said axle of magnetized rotary construction
pieces.
24. The construction set of claim 1, in which said construction set
further comprises a rotational magnetic disk crank; said disk crank
comprising an axle, a disk body and a rotation drive means; the
body of said rotational magnetic disk crank comprising a circular
pattern of magnetized elements adapted to provide rotational
magnetic coupling when said magnetized rotary construction pieces
are placed on said journal board in proximity to said magnetized
rotational magnetic disk crank.
25. The construction set of claim 24 whereas said rotation drive
means is a hand crank provided by means of a revolving handle
offset form the axis of the central axle.
26. The construction set of claim 24, in which said rotation drive
means is a knob extending from said body.
27. The construction set of claim 24, in which said rotation drive
means is an electric motor.
28. The construction set of claim 24, in which said rotation drive
means is adapted to be located at a central location on said
journal board.
29. The construction set of claim 24, in which said rotation drive
means is adapted to be located at a peripheral location on said
journal board.
30. A construction set comprising; a magnetized drive ring, a
plurality of magnetized rotary construction pieces and a journal
board comprising a journal array adapted for receiving said
magnetized rotary construction pieces within a playing area of
numerous receptacle pivot locations; said journal board further
comprising a substantially annular ring supporting means adapted
for providing the pivoting of said magnetized drive ring around the
periphery of said journal hole array; said magnetized rotary
construction pieces each comprising a body portion and a
centralized axle; said axle adapted to removably fit on said
journal board and rotate within said receptacle pivot locations of
said journal board; said body portion further comprising a circular
pattern of magnetized elements adapted for rotational magnetic
coupling when said magnetized rotary construction pieces are
closely spaced apart on said journal board; said magnetized drive
ring comprising a ring-shaped body characterized by a major and
minor diameter and a rotation drive means; said magnetized drive
ring adapted to be rotationally supported by said annular ring
supporting means of said journal board; and said ring-shaped body
comprising a circular pattern of magnetized elements positioned
near the minor diameter and adapted to provide rotational magnetic
coupling when said magnetized rotary construction pieces are placed
on said journal board within said magnetized drive ring in
proximity to said minor diameter of said magnetized drive ring.
31. The construction set of claim 30 wherein said magnetized
elements is a circular pattern of permanent magnets configured to
create a variable outward magnetic field to cause the rotational
magnetic coupling of proximally placed rotary construction
pieces.
32. The construction set of claim 31 wherein said magnetized
elements of said magnetized drive ring are NdFeB permanent magnets
comprising composed mainly of Neodymium (Nd), Iron (Fe) and Boron
(B).
33. The construction set of claim 32 wherein said magnetized
elements of said magnetized drive ring are block shaped permanent
magnets.
34. The construction set of claim 32, in which said body portion of
said magnetized drive ring contain axial slots within said body
portion near the perimeter wherein said magnetized elements are
embedded within.
35. The construction set of claim 31, in which said permanent
magnets are totally encapsulated within said body of said
magnetized drive ring.
36. The construction set of claim 31, in which said magnetized
elements is a circular array of permanent magnets configured to
have alternating outward magnetic polarity whereas magnetic
coupling is significantly achieved by both attraction and repulsion
between interacting magnets of proximally placed said rotational
magnetic construction pieces.
37. The construction set of claim 31, in which said magnetized
drive ring further comprises a revolving handle offset displaced on
said ring shaped body to facilitate motion of said magnetized drive
ring.
38. The construction set of claim 30, in which said magnetized
drive ring is mechanically coupled to an electric motor to cause
rotation of said magnetized drive ring.
39. The construction set of claim 30, in which said ring supporting
means of said journal board is captive annular slot adapted to
receive said magnetized drive ring and support said magnetized
drive ring while allowing rotation of said magnetized drive ring
around a central rotational axis.
40. The construction set of claim 30, in which said magnetized
drive ring further comprising visual indication means to indicate
magnetic rotational coupling between said magnetized rotary
construction pieces.
41. (canceled)
42. The construction set of claim 1, wherein said magnetized
elements of said magnetized rotary construction pieces are provided
by a multi-pole magnetic strip wrapped around the parameter of said
disk bodies, said magnetic strip magnetized with an alternating
outward magnetic polarity.
43. The construction set of claim 30, wherein said magnetized
elements of said magnetized rotary construction pieces are provided
by a multi-pole magnetic strip wrapped around the parameter of said
disk bodies, said magnetic strip magnetized with an alternating
outward magnetic polarity.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 61/033,722 filed 04 Mar. 2008,
of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/041,831 filed 02 Apr.
2008, of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/146,793 filed
23 Jan. 2009, and each of which is incorporated herein by
reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is an amusement device concerned
generally with a construction type educational toy. The apparatus
disclosed provides unique functionality via board design and piece
structure allowing relative motion between coupled playing pieces.
The construction apparatus is of the type having rotary
path-forming pieces that can be located in numerous positions on
the base board. The pieces are removably interfitting and allow the
construction of variable paths and patterns.
[0003] The amusement device incorporates magnetism to perform
relative rotary motion. A circular pattern of permanent magnets are
included in construction pieces to allow numerous magnetically
coupled rotary pieces to undergo relative rotation analogous to a
gear train. In addition to toy or game amusement device, the
present invention also embodies an education and demonstration
device whereby the assembly of magnetically coupled rotary pieces
provides the interactive demonstration of a gear train machine
mechanism.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] A variety of amusement devices exist having parts assembled
for relative movement including rotary gears, pulleys, or
strand-winding members such as those found in United States Patent
Class 446, Subclass 112 and having permanent magnets in United
States Patent Class 446, Subclass 129. Likewise, other amusement
devices exist as games in United States Patent Class 273 including,
but not limited to, Subclasses 239, 275, 276, 282.1, 284, 287, and
288. Still further, a variety of related machine mechanisms exist
for education and demonstration having means for demonstrating
apparatus, product, or surface configuration, or for displaying
education material or student's work such as those found in United
States Patent Class 434, Subclass 401.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] It is an object of the present invention to obviate or
mitigate at least one disadvantage of previous amusement
devices.
[0006] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a
construction set including: a plurality of magnetized rotary
construction pieces and a journal board adapted for receiving the
magnetized rotary construction pieces within a playing area of
numerous closely-spaced receptacle pivot locations; the magnetized
rotary construction pieces each including a body portion and a
centralized axle projection; the axle projection adapted to
removably-fit on the journal board and rotate within the receptacle
pivot locations of the journal board; the body portion further
including magnetized elements arranged in a circular pattern with
numerous locations of outward magnetic polarity around the
periphery of the rotary construction pieces; and magnetized
elements adapted for providing for rotational magnetic coupling
when the magnetized rotary construction pieces are placed in
proximity to each other on the journal board.
[0007] In further aspect, the present invention provides a
construction set including; a magnetized drive ring, a plurality of
magnetized rotary construction pieces and a journal board including
a journal array adapted for receiving the magnetized rotary
construction pieces within a playing area of numerous receptacle
pivot locations; the journal board further including a
substantially annular ring supporting means adapted for providing
the pivoting of the magnetized drive ring around the periphery of
the journal hole array; the magnetized rotary construction pieces
each including a body portion and a centralized axle; the axle
adapted to removably-fit on the journal board and rotate within the
receptacle pivot locations of the journal board; the body portion
further including a circular pattern of magnetized elements adapted
for rotational magnetic coupling when the magnetized rotary
construction pieces are closely spaced apart on the journal board;
the magnetized drive ring including a ring-shaped body
characterized by a major and minor diameter and a rotation drive
means; the magnetized drive ring adapted to be rotationally
supported by the annular ring supporting means of the journal
board; and the ring-shaped body including a circular pattern of
magnetized elements positioned near the minor diameter and adapted
to provide rotational magnetic coupling when the magnetized rotary
construction pieces are placed on the journal board within the
magnetized drive ring in proximity to the minor diameter of the
magnetized drive ring.
[0008] Generally speaking, the present invention is an amusement
device concerned with a construction toy system of high educational
value. The construction type apparatus disclosed provides unique
capability for amusement via board design and playing piece
structure allowing relative motion between playing pieces. The
apparatus is of the type having rotary path-forming playing pieces
that can be located in numerous positions on a journal board.
Moreover, the playing pieces are removably interfitting and allow
the construction of variable paths and design patterns.
[0009] The amusement device incorporates magnetism to perform
relative rotary motion. A circular pattern of permanent magnets are
included in playing pieces to allow numerous magnetically coupled
rotary pieces to undergo relative rotation analogous to a gear
train.
[0010] The invention has multiple formats and applications. A
preferred format is a construction system in which a person can
employ the playing pieces in numerous patterns and configurations
for achieving complete magnetic coupling and simultaneous
motion.
[0011] An individual may explore numbers patterns and
configurations of magnetically coupled rotary playing pieces as
curiosity directs in "solitare" play. As playing pieces are
removably interfitting with the game board, the rotating disks can
be arranged and re-arranged with substantial freedom to form
theories and investigate results of pattern formation. For example
the device allows the construction of circular patterns, linear
patterns, spiral patterns, and patterns which are symmetrical about
one or more planes. Depending on placement and configuration the
invention allows an individual to also form closed loops where as
more than one playing piece of the same "gear train" is linked to
the lead gear.
[0012] As the invention allows simultaneous motion of a multitude
of disks, dynamic visual results can be achieved with greater
expression through the deployment of graphical cover plates. These
covers can be added and exchanged based on the user's opinion. The
plastic cover plates add an extra layer of creative construction
and play since the interchanging graphics can give a single pattern
a different look and feel and thus a higher level of versatility
and personalization is enjoyed in the contest of the construction
system.
[0013] According to a secondary format, the construction system can
be adapted for competitive playing by a number of individuals. In
competitive play, players take turns adding rotary playing piece
until free space on the board is diminished to the point where
adding additional pieces disrupts the magnetic coupling of
previously placed rotary pieces. According to this competitive
format, the path forming game of this type relies on mental
processes and strategy to construct a pattern in maximizing the
number of magnetically coupled rotary playing pieces as part of the
"gear train".
[0014] In all conceived playing formats, successful execution will
depend on mental process such as knowledge of combinations relative
to interchangeable gears and being able to visually estimate
transverse and diagonal distances between placement locations.
Successful placement also depends on an awareness on how distance
between playing pieces relates to the magnitude of constructive
coupling or interference depending on the properties of the playing
pieces such as size and pattern of permanent magnets displaced on
rotary playing pieces.
[0015] Competitive game play according to the present invention
does also enable the use of strategy for proactive placement or
rotary playing pieces in the attempt to limit the selection of
pivot locations of an opposing opponent and force the outcome of an
opponent causing the "gear train" to "lock up" on account of poor
placement or limited placement options. Thus it will be come
apparent to one skilled in the art that the novel construction
system provides an interactive apparatus for exploring the
principles of magnetic coupling and relative motion. Such an
interactive apparatus is so adapted to be both enjoyable and
intellectually stimulating.
[0016] In addition providing amusement and various formats for
play, the present invention also embodies an education and
demonstration device whereby the assembly of magnetically coupled
rotary pieces provides the interactive demonstration of a gear
train machine mechanism
[0017] The invention enables a high degree of interchangeable,
variable, or plural distinct playing patterns via the substantially
dense array of pivot locations provided for within the journal
board array. The closely spaced array of receiving holes enables
relatively precise positioning of playing pieces to build an
assembly that exhibits relative movement of all magnetically
coupled playing pieces via rotation of single driving disk or
ring.
[0018] Several embodiments are disclosed including a first
preferred embodiment in a system designed around a journal board in
which a driving disk shaped crank is centrally located. According
to this embodiment, playing pieces are placed to extend the "gear
train" of magnetically coupled rotary playing pieces such as to
provide an "inside-out" playing format.
[0019] Other preferred embodiments include those wherein the
journal board is circular and a rotational-magnetic ring crank is
located to revolve around the outside of the array of journal
positions. According to this preferred embodiment, playing pieces
are added to extend the "gear train" from the inside of the ring
toward the center of the journal hole array such as to provide an
"outside-in" playing format. The exterior ring crank comprises a
revolving handle which allows easy revolution according to the
manipulation of the user.
[0020] An added benefit of this preferred configuration, in
comparison to other configurations utilizing a central driving gear
is that the players can drive the rotary playing pieces to spin at
higher speeds enabling them to explore a wider range of visual and
magnetic interactive effects with greater ability to alter the
dynamics. For example, relative motion between rotary playing
pieces caused by magnetic coupling can be overcome by suddenly
switching the direction of rotation and rotating at high speed. One
or more playing pieces that would normally spin when rotating the
driving member at low speed can be caused not to spin at high speed
by dynamic manipulation. Furthermore, a player can strategize about
the placement of rotary playing pieces such that intended dynamic
effects can be deliberately achieved.
[0021] To summarize, the construction system according to the
present invention is characterized with the following
advantages.
[0022] The construction system is fun and enjoyable to play and
use.
[0023] The construction system is intriguing in that it allows a
large number of non-touching rotary playing pieces to be
magnetically coupled so as rotation of one rotary playing piece
causes a great many of other playing pieces to also rotate.
[0024] The construction system is highly interactive and allows
many variable paths and patterns.
[0025] The construction system is visually pleasing and allows one
to see the effects of applying customizable graphics to
simultaneously spinning playing pieces.
[0026] The construction system instructs players of the principles
of magnetic coupling and interaction and how variables act to
encourage and discourage the rotational coupling.
[0027] The construction system instructs players of relative rotary
motion analogous to gear trains.
[0028] The construction system encourages spatial intelligence in
the strategic placement of rotary playing pieces.
[0029] The amusement device provides a novel format of play whereas
magnetic properties of rotary playing pieces work both productively
and counter-productively in the progress of play.
[0030] The construction system allows an individual to explore and
investigate numerous patterns and configurations as curiosity
leads.
[0031] The construction system is novel and intriguing in how it
allows one to visualize magnetic interaction in a dynamic
format.
[0032] The construction system is "hands on" in that one can touch
and feel the results of configuring and reconfiguring the
magnetically coupled apparatus.
[0033] Other advantages and benefits may be possible, and it is not
necessary to achieve all or any of these benefits or advantages in
order to practice the invention as claimed. Therefore, nothing in
the forgoing description of the possible or exemplary advantages
and benefits can or should be taken as limiting.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0034] The novel features of the present invention, which are
considered as characteristic for the invention, are set forth with
particularity in the appended claims. The invention itself,
however, both as to organization and methods of operation, together
with further objects and advantages thereof, may best be understood
by reference to the following description, taken in conjunction
with the accompanying drawings in which:
[0035] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a journal board with a set
of magnetically coupled rotary pieces according to a first
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0036] FIGS. 2A-2C are top, perspective, and side views of a small
magnetic playing piece and complementary face plate according to
preferred embodiments of the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 2D is a sectional view of the rotational-magnetic
playing piece of FIGS. 2A-2C taken along the section line of FIG.
2A.
[0038] FIG. 2E is a sectional view of the rotational-magnetic
playing piece of FIGS. 2A-2D taken along the section line of FIG.
2C.
[0039] FIGS. 3A-3C are top, perspective, and side views of a large
rotational-magnetic playing piece and complementary face plate
according to preferred embodiments of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 3D is a sectional view of the rotational-magnetic
playing piece of FIGS. 3A-3C taken along the section line of FIG.
3A.
[0041] FIG. 3E is a sectional view of the rotational-magnetic
playing piece of FIGS. 3A-3D taken along the section line of FIG.
3C.
[0042] FIGS. 4A-4C are top, perspective, and side views of a
rotational-magnetic driving crank according to preferred
embodiments of the present invention.
[0043] FIG. 4D is a sectional view of the rotational-magnetic
driving crank of FIGS. 4A-4C taken along the section line of FIG.
4A.
[0044] FIG. 4E is a sectional view of the rotational-magnetic
driving crank of FIGS. 4A-4D taken along the section line of FIG.
4C.
[0045] FIGS. 5A-5B are top and side views of a small
rotational-magnetic playing piece magnetically coupled to a
rotational-magnetic drive crank according to preferred embodiments
of the present invention.
[0046] FIG. 5C shows the coupled rotational-magnetic small playing
piece and drive crank of FIGS. 5A-5B along the section line of FIG.
5B.
[0047] FIGS. 6A-6B are top and side views respectively of the
journal board with magnetically coupled rotary pieces according to
the first preferred embodiment of a construction set according to
the present invention wherein various sized rotational-magnetic
playing pieces are arranged in a line along the middle of a journal
base board in a configuration enabling rotational magnetic
coupling.
[0048] FIG. 6C is a sectional view of the configured first
preferred embodiment of FIGS. 6A-6B taken along the section line of
FIG. 6A.
[0049] FIG. 6D is a sectional view of the configured first
preferred embodiment of FIGS. 6A-6B taken along the section line of
FIG. 6B.
[0050] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a second preferred
embodiment of a configured construction set according to the
present invention utilizing an octagon shaped journal base board
wherein the rotational-magnetic drive crank is centrally located
and rotational-magnetic playing pieces are arranged in a
substantially symmetrical pattern.
[0051] FIG. 8A-8B are top and side views of a second preferred
embodiment of an octagon shaped journal base-board wherein numerous
rotational-magnetic playing pieces are arranged in a unique spread
apart circular pattern and wherein rotational-magnetic playing
piece are configured with differing face plates as compared to the
configuration of FIG. 7.
[0052] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a third preferred
embodiment of a configured construction set according to the
present invention utilizing a circular shaped journal base board
adapted to receive a ring shaped rotational-magnetic drive crank
wherein rotational-magnetic playing pieces are placed within the
interior of the ring shaped rotational-magnetic drive crank in a
somewhat random configuration.
[0053] FIGS. 9B and 9C are exploded and non-exploded perspective
views of the third preferred embodiment and configuration shown in
FIG. 9A.
[0054] FIGS. 10A-10C show perspective, top and side views
respectively of a second rotational-magnetic playing piece
configuration according to the third preferred embodiment of the
present invention utilizing a ring shaped rotational-magnetic drive
crank wherein the rotational-magnetic playing piece are arranged in
a symmetrical cross pattern.
[0055] FIG. 10D shows a sectional view of the preferred embodiment
and configuration of FIGS. 10A-10C taken along the section line of
FIG. 10B.
[0056] FIG. 10E shows a sectional view of the preferred embodiment
and configuration of FIGS. 10A-10D taken along the section line of
FIG. 10C.
[0057] FIG. 11A-11H shows several preferred graphical embodiments
of large, medium and small face plates according to the present
invention.
[0058] FIG. 12A-12B shows a side view and sectional view of a small
rotational-magnetic playing piece magnetically coupled to a
rotational-magnetic drive crank according to an alternative
embodiment of the present invention. The section view of FIG. 12B
is taken along the section line of FIG. 12A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0059] As utilized herein, terms such as "about", "approximately",
"substantially" and "near" are intended to allow some leeway in
mathematical exactness to account for tolerances that are
acceptable in the trade.
[0060] Before explaining the present invention in detail, it should
be noted that the invention is not limited in its application or
use to the details of construction and arrangement of parts
illustrated in the accompanying drawings and description. The
illustrative embodiments of the invention may be implemented or
incorporated in other embodiment, variations and modifications, and
may be practices or carried out in various ways. Furthermore,
unless otherwise indicated, the terms and expressions employed
herein have been chosen for the purpose of describing the
illustrative embodiments of the present invention for the
convenience of the reader and are not for the purpose of limiting
the invention. Further it is understood that any one or more of the
following-described embodiments, expressions of embodiments,
examples, methods, etc. Can be combined with any one or more of the
other following-described embodiments, expressions or embodiments,
examples, methods, etc.
[0061] Referring to FIGS. 1-6E, a first preferred embodiment of the
present invention is shown.
[0062] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a construction set
according to the first preferred embodiment. The construction set
includes journal base board 110, rotational-magnetic disk crank 74,
and a group of rotary playing pieces 61 comprising several large
rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, medium rotational-magnetic
playing pieces 62B, and small rotational-magnetic playing pieces
62C. Playing pieces 62A, B and C are each provided with graphical
face plates 80E, 81E, and 82E respectively.
[0063] The base of the apparatus is journal board 110 adapted to
receive rotational-magnetic playing pieces 61. Each large, medium
and small rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, 62B, and 62C
comprises a substantially circular disk body 64A, B and C. Handle
portion 65A, B and C is a slender projection extend above
respective disk bodies for facilitating hand placement on journal
base board. Each of the rotational-magnetic playing pieces further
comprise shafts portion 66A, B and C respectively centrally
projecting below disk bodies 64A, B, and C and are adapted to
closely fit within variable journal positions of journal hole array
112 of journal board 110.
[0064] Playing pieces are further provided with graphical cover
plates 80E, 81E, and 82E adapted to fit on magnetic-rotational
playing pieces over handle portions 65A, 65B and 65C
respectively.
[0065] Journal board 110 comprises journal grid 112 which is an
array of holes of sufficient depth to receive shaft portions 66A, B
and C of rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B and C.
Accordingly, playing pieces 62A, B, and C slip into journal board
110 and are permitted to pivot in numerous pivot locations as
provided by journal hole array 112 having a grid comprising a hole
pattern. Journal hole array 112 is of sufficient size and hole
density to allow numerous pivot locations for rotational-magnetic
playing piece 62A, B, and C to be placed in close proximity on
journal board 110 such that disk portions 64A, B, and C reside on
top surface 114 of journal board 110 without touching each other
while also freely pivoting on axis of each respective shaft portion
66A, B, and C. Preferably journal board 110 is made of a low
friction plastic material such as Acetal copolymer or PVDF. Another
preferred low friction yet dimensionally stable material would be
Delrin impregnated with Teflon.
[0066] Holes of journal hole array is preferably of maximum area
and density for allowing the maximum number of pivot locations
within area of journal hole array 112. Accordingly, the preferred
spacing between holes is less than 1.5 times the hole diameters.
Journal base board 110 is of sufficient thickness to support
rotational-magnetic playing piece in magnetically coupled
configurations without yielding under the action of magnetically
attractive and repulsive forces.
[0067] Rotational-magnetic disk crank 74 is provided with revolving
handle 75 projecting from the top of disk portion 64 and located
near the edge of disk portion 64 for enabling crank operation in
initiating rotation of magnetically coupled rotational-magnetic
playing pieces 64A, B and C. Preferably, rotational-magnetic disk
crank comprises disk portion 64 of larger size than
rotational-magnetic playing pieces 61, whereas the larger size
helps facilitate the cranking action and enables a larger number of
rotational-magnetic playing pieces to be magnetically coupled
directly to disk crank 74.
[0068] Shown in FIG. 1, one of each large, medium, and small
rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B, and C are configured in
a spaced apart row along side rotational-magnetic drive crank 74.
According to this configuration, rotation drive crank 74 will cause
magnetically coupled rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B, and
C to rotate with direction of spin alternating from playing piece
to playing piece.
[0069] Now referring to FIGS. 2A-2E, the preferred construction of
small rotational-magnetic playing piece 62C is shown in greater
detail along with complementary graphical cover plate 82E. As
shown, the small rotational-magnetic playing piece 62C of this
preferred embodiment comprises circular disk body 64C having
central handle portion 65C projecting above and central shaft
portion 66C projecting below.
[0070] Shaft portion 66C and handle portion 65C are integral to
disk body 64C where as they are all part of a single injection
molded component to which rectangular magnets are subsequently
installed. Although shaft portion is of a small diameter the
required length is sufficiently small to prevent it from being
easily damaged a result of applied bending loads. This provides a
cost advantage with the ability to mass produce the
rotational-magnetic playing pieces with minimum additional material
costs other than the costs of the embedded rectangular magnets 69.
Alternatively the shaft portion 66C may consist of a metal pin
pressed into disk portion 64C. Such a shaft could provide reduced
friction and increased stiffness to shaft portion 66C. Above shaft
portion 66C disk portion 64C further comprises contoured bottom 71C
for reducing the contacting surface area with the journal base
board 110 when placed thereon whereas the surface area of bearing
surface 72C is much less than the surface area corresponding to
contoured bottom 71C.
[0071] Disk body 64C further comprises axial slots 68C in which
rectangular magnets 69 are housed. Axial slots 68C are arranged in
a circular pattern within disk body 64C for accommodating
rectangular magnets 69 in a circular pattern near disk parameter
74C. When pressed into axial slots 68C, rectangular magnets 69 are
substantially embedded in disk body. Slot recesses 70C remain when
the rectangular magnets are fully inserted during manufacturing and
can be subsequently filled with adhesive or an interlocking cap so
that magnets 69 are completely encapsulated within disk body 64C.
However a light interference fit is all that is needed for
preventing rectangular magnets 69 from being able to be dislodged
from disk body 64C when under magnetic attractive and repulsive
loading. Alternatively, rectangular magnets 69 are over molded
during manufacturing to provide full encapsulation.
[0072] As shown in the sectional view of FIG. 2E, disk body 64C
comprises an even number of axial slots 68C for accommodating an
even number of rectangular magnets 69 which are arranged as to
exhibit a radial outward polarity of which north and south poles
alternate. Small rotational-magnetic playing piece 62C comprises 10
rectangular magnets 69 closely spaced around the inside of the disk
parameter 73C.
[0073] According to this preferred embodiment, centralized handle
portion 65C is substantially slender, is sufficiently long to be
gripped by hand for easy placement, and is of an oblong cross
section. The slenderness of handle portion 65C enables graphical
cover plate 82E to be of maximum surface area and the oblong shape
facilitates interlocking with central oblong hole 83C of cover
piece 82E so that when cover plate 82E is placed on
rotational-magnetic playing piece 62C it spins in conjunction with
small rotational-magnetic playing piece 62C.
[0074] Small graphical cover plate 82E is preferably a removable
substrate that can be placed upon rotational-magnetic playing piece
62C or can be exchanged for graphical cover plates of the same size
having alternate graphics. For example Small graphical cover plate
85E could be a stamped from a plastic sheet and provided with an
adhesive graphics. Alternatively graphical cover plate 82E may
comprise a substrate suitable for painted or printed graphics
applied directly thereto. Another alternative is for graphical
cover plate to a cardboard cutout supplied with the construction
set whereas differing supplied cardboard graphical cover plates can
be selected from punch-out cardboard sheets of profiles and
graphical indication means similar to the various graphical cover
plates shown in FIGS. 11A-11E.
[0075] Graphical cover plate 82E is characterized as a thin disk
with outside diameter 84C and a central oblong hole 83C. Outside
diameter 84C is substantially equivalent to diameter associated
with disk parameter 73C. Graphics 89E are displaced on top face 85C
and optionally also on bottom face 86C. For example, a clockwise
spiral graphic similar to that shown may be on the top face while
the bottom face may contain a counter-clockwise spiral so that
playing pieces may be configured so that you get the same dynamic
visual effect for playing pieces rotating both clockwise and
counterclockwise.
[0076] Now referring to FIGS. 3A-3E, the preferred construction of
large rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A is shown in greater
detail along with complementary graphical cover plate 80E. As
shown, the large rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A of this
preferred embodiment comprises circular disk body 64A with central
handle portion 65A projecting above and central shaft portion 66A
projecting below. In like manner to small rotational-magnetic
playing piece 62C of FIGS. 2A-2E disk body 64A comprises contoured
bottom 71A, bearing surface 72A, and axial slots 68A for
accommodating rectangular magnets 69. However disk body 64A of
large rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A is characterized with a
disk parameter 73A significantly larger than that of small playing
piece 62C of FIGS. 2A-2E and is configured with a larger number of
axial slots 68A to receive a larger number of rectangular magnets
69 arranged in a circular pattern of alternating radial north and
south poles. In this case, disk body 64A houses sixteen rectangular
magnets as compared to ten rectangular magnets embedded in disk
body 64C of small rotational-magnetic playing piece 62C.
[0077] Also similar to small rotational-magnetic playing piece 62C,
centralized handle portion 65A is substantially slender and of an
oblong cross-section. This enables graphical cover plate 80E to be
of maximum surface area and the oblong shape facilitates
interlocking with central oblong hole 83A of cover piece 80E so
that, when cover plate 80E is placed on rotational-magnetic playing
piece 62A, it spins in conjunction with large rotational-magnetic
playing piece 62A.
[0078] Now referring to FIGS. 4A-4E, the preferred construction of
rotational-magnetic disk crank 74 is shown in greater detail.
Unlike rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B and C,
rotational-magnetic disk crank 74 does not comprise a central
slender handle portion and is not provided with a complementary
removable cover plate. Rather disk portion 64 of
rotational-magnetic disk crank comprises an affixed revolving
handle 75 projecting up along the side of disk portion 64 near disk
parameter 73. Preferably rotational-magnetic disk crank 74 is of
larger size than rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A, B and C and
revolving handle 75 is of maximum offset with respect to
centralized shaft portion 66 for facilitating convenient hand
operation in driving rotational-magnetic disk crank 74.
[0079] Revolving handle 75 comprises handle base 76 affixed to disk
body 64. Handle sleeve 78 is retained on outside of handle base 76
and is adapted to freely rotate thereon so that a person may freely
apply a cranking action to rotational-magnetic disk crank 74
whereas magnetic interaction between rotary playing pieces and
inertia of playing pieces are the significant counteracting forces
when initiating rotation of playing pieces.
[0080] Rotational-magnetic disk crank 74 further comprises
contoured bottom 71 for providing a bearing surface 72 of minimal
yet adequate surface area for contacting journal board when shaft
portion 66 is inserted into a pivot location within journal array
112.
[0081] Graphical indication means is located on top surface 67 of
disk body 64 and preferably includes visual indication means to
indicate polarity of internal rectangular magnets embedded within.
Preferably graphical indication is provided by an adhesive decal or
is printed directly on the substrate that comprises disk portion
64.
[0082] Similar to the preferred embodiment of playing pieces 62A,
B, and C, disk portion 64 of rotational-magnetic disk crank 74
comprises axial slots 68 for embedding rectangular magnets 69.
Preferably, subsequent to insertion of rectangular magnets 69, the
slot recesses 70 would be filled with adhesive or sealed in some
other manner known to those skilled in the art.
[0083] As shown in FIG. 4E, rotational-magnetic disk crank 74
comprises an even number of rectangular magnets 69 housed in a
circular pattern of axial slots 68 which is larger in number than
large medium and small rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A, B,
and C. According to this preferred embodiment rotational-magnetic
disk crank 74 comprises twenty rectangular magnets 69 of
alternating radial polarity arranged near disk parameter 73.
[0084] It should be understood that the rotary playing pieces may
be injection molded parts adapted to receive rectangular magnets
69. Preferably, strong rare earth NdFeB permanent magnets are
utilized which are composed mainly of Neodymium (Nd), Iron (Fe) and
Boron (B). Although parameters 73A, B, and C are shown as round the
actual shape of disk body 64A, B and C may be a polygon or another
non-circular shape within the scope of the invention. Moreover, the
magnets may be other than the rectangular magnets 69 as shown.
[0085] Although according the preferred embodiment shown magnetized
elements are discrete magnets (i.e., rectangular magnets 69)
displaced in axial slots in circular configuration arranged to
provide alternating outward polarity, it should be readily
understood as within the scope of the invention that magnetization
can alternatively be provided by magnetic strip wrapped around the
parameter of disk bodies adapted for providing substantially
equivalent functionality. It is know to those practiced in the art
that multi-pole magnetic strip can be manufactured with a specified
width, thickness and length whereas the magnetic strip exhibits a
fixed number evenly distributed number of magnetic poles per unit
length. For example, according to the invention, magnetic strip
that is 0.100 inch thick, 0.250 inch wide and has four poles per
inch can be utilized for providing substantially equivalent
performance.
[0086] Although magnetized elements according to an embodiment
utilizing magnetic strip might require a greater volume of magnetic
material to provide an equivalent magnetic field whereas a greater
width or thickness as compared as to discrete magnets would be
required, magnetic strip would provide a cost savings to the extent
that cost attributed to magnetic strip as the magnetized elements
would be 1/5 to 1/10 the associated costs of using discrete
magnets.
[0087] In addition to cost savings pertaining to the magnetic
material, magnetic strip would also provide improved
manufacturability of the device components as compared to utilizing
costly discrete magnets which much be precisely accommodated within
slots in disk bodies. According to an alternative embodiment
utilizing magnetic strip as the magnetization means, the strip can
be wrapped around and secured to disk bodies with the use of
adhesive and preferably with additional means of securing the strip
such as providing for a two-part disk body having a plug and socket
type interface for fully encasing the magnetic strip. Such a
configuration would likely be characterized with increased product
safety.
[0088] Referring to FIGS. 5A-5B, rotational-magnetic disk crank 74
is show in proximity to small rotational-magnetic playing piece 62C
as if they were placed on a journal base board according to the
present invention. As is typical with placement on a journal base
board these figures show rotational-magnetic disk crank 74 and
small rotational-magnetic playing piece 62C are aligned in a manner
whereas shaft portion 72 and 72C are parallel and bearing surfaces
72 and 72C coincident to the same plane.
[0089] Referring to FIG. 5C, a section view is shown along a line
through disk bodies 64 and 64C of rotational-magnetic disk crank 74
and small rotational-magnetic playing piece 62C respectively. When
placed in proximity on a journal board, rotational-magnetic disk
crank 74 and small rotational-magnetic playing piece 62C are
magnetically coupled so that alternating north and south poles
provided by radial magnets 69 cause rotation of small
rotational-magnetic playing piece 62C when rotational-magnetic disk
crank 74 is rotated. This is facilitated by both the attraction of
unlike poles and the repulsion of like poles between proximally
located disk bodies.
[0090] Circular magnetic pitch P74 of rotational-magnetic disk
crank 74 and circular pitch P62C of rotational-magnetic playing
piece 62C are substantially equivalent according to the invention
as needed for effective coupling between various sized playing
pieces. Thus all rotational-magnetic construction pieces including
disk crank 74 and large, medium and small rotational-magnetic
construction pieces 62A, B, and C have a substantially equivalent
circular pitch for providing interchangeability whereas all
rotational-magnetic construction pieces can be effectively coupled
together.
[0091] In this preferred embodiment, variables associated with
magnetic coupling are pitch diameters D74D and D62D working depth
Dw and pitch point P. Magnetic coupling allows these variables to
change depending on proximity of one playing piece to another. This
a principal advantage of the invention as compared to other
rotational construction type systems relying on mechanical
interlocking such as those involving toothed mechanical gears.
[0092] According to the invention, Dw can be very small or very
large and still provide magnetic coupling between
rotational-magnetic disk crank 74 and rotational-magnetic playing
piece 62C. However as working depth Dw increases as a result of
further apart spacing, the strength of magnetic coupling decreases.
The maximum working depth Dw is also influenced by the proximity of
other nearby rotational-magnetic playing pieces. This variable is
important in constructing various configurations and patterns
because proximity can encourage magnetic coupling or cause
counter-productive interaction. Thus strategy and intuition is
required for achieving relative motion of all rotary construction
pieces together such that when rotational-magnetic disk crank is
cranked all other rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A, B and C
also spin.
[0093] Referring to FIGS. 6A-6D, the first preferred embodiment of
the present invention is illustrated whereas a row of
rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A, B and C along with
rotational-magnetic disk crank 74 are placed on rectangular journal
board 110 along a central row of journal hole array 112. Bearing
surfaces of respective rotational-magnetic playing piece rest on
top surface 114 of journal board 110 so that all internal magnets
are approximately held at the same elevation. Preferably, shaft
portions 72, 72A, B, and C of rotational-magnetic playing pieces do
not extend beyond bottom surface 115 when placed within journal
board 110. Rubber feet 116 are provide under journal board 110 to
apply grip to journal board when a player is actuating
rotational-magnetic disk crank 74.
[0094] Although rotational-magnetic playing pieces do not
physically touch each other when placed in proximity on journal
board array 112 the invention utilizes magnetic coupling such that
manual rotation of one rotational-magnetic disk crank 74 will cause
all magnetically coupled playing pieces 62A, B and C to rotate.
Several parameters influence magnetic coupling and the ability to
build a path of closely placed rotational-magnetic playing piece
62A, B and C wherein all rotate in response to the manual rotation
of a rotational-magnetic disk crank 74. These parameters include
but are not limited to differences in radial pitch and size and
distance between placed playing pieces.
[0095] As indicated by shading of graphical cover plates shown in
FIG. 6A and the magnetic polarities indicated in the section views
of FIG. 6C and 6D, rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A, B, and C
are magnetically coupled to rotational-magnetic disk crank 74 in
radial orientations wherein opposite poles are aligned at regions
of adjacency. Rotational-magnetic playing pieces can be said to be
meshed whereas both attractive and repulsive forces work in regions
of proximity to ensure relative motion between magnetically coupled
rotational playing pieces. Again magnetic coupling can be explained
by attraction of proximal magnetic north and south poles and by
repulsion of proximal magnetic north and north or magnetic south
and south poles.
[0096] Although shown in a straight line, numerous configurations
of magnetically coupled rotary construction pieces are possible by
strategic placement of playing pieces 62A, B and C within journal
hole array 112. Although rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A, B
and C vary in size and number of radial magnets 69 each
rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A, B and C comprises a circular
pattern of an even number of spaced apart rectangular magnets 69
that are characterized with a substantially equivalent radial
spacing. Thus large rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A, medium
rotational-magnetic playing piece 62B and small rotational-magnetic
playing piece 62C are each characterized with a radial pitch within
an acceptable range to facilitate effective magnetic coupling.
[0097] The size of each disk portion corresponding to the various
sized rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B and C is preferably
determined according to a numerical relationship corresponding to
the spacing between pivot point locations along journal hole array
112. For example, according to the preferred embodiment of FIGS.
1-6D, diameters of small, medium, and large rotational-magnetic
playing piece 62C, B and A and rotational-magnetic disk crank 74
are approximately 7/8'', 11/8'', 13/8'', and 15/8'' respectively
whereas spacing between pivot locations of journal hole array 112
is 1/8''. This sizing and space relationship allows substantially
precise placement of rotational-magnetic playing pieces in close
proximity along a line.
[0098] According to the invention, when journal hole array 112 is
populated with rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A, B and C, it
becomes increasingly difficult to construct a fully rotating train
of rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B and C, due to the
unintended interference (counter-productive interaction) of
previously placed rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B and C
which acts to lock up portions of the path formed. As space becomes
less available along journal hole array 112, a player becomes more
limited in availability of successful positions for productive
placement of rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A, B and C and it
becomes more challenging to successfully extend the number of
magnetically coupled playing pieces that rotate upon the manual
rotation of rotational-magnetic disk crank 74.
[0099] A preferred format of play within the scope of the present
invention is the ability to form patterns and form numerous
variable paths of magnetically coupled rotating elements. Thus the
objective of one or more players is to incrementally add rotary
construction pieces to journal hole array that form a magnetically
coupled path from rotational-magnetic disk crank 74 whereas
rotation of rotational-magnetic ring crank will cause all placed
rotary construction pieces to also rotate and experience relative
motion. Such patterns can take on numbers shapes and depict things
such as robots or other objects. Patterns may have various degrees
of symmetry and may have triangular, rectangular or circular
paths.
[0100] An alternative format of play of the present invention is a
construction type path-forming challenge to maximize the number of
magnetically coupled rotary construction pieces that can be
attached to the "gear train" before a lock up occurs that prevents
one or more rotary construction pieces from rotating. According to
this format, a multi-player game would instruct players to take
turns adding rotary construction pieces. The player that causes
magnetic lockup of one or more rotary playing through
counter-productive placement of rotary construction pieces looses
the game. Thus loss would be incurred either through poor placement
strategy or a lack of placement options due to congestion of rotary
construction pieces covering most of the journal board. Thus an
enjoyable and intellectually demanding method of play is to
maximize the number of rotary construction pieces added to the
"gear train" before "lock-up" is encountered.
[0101] Thus it will be come apparent to one skilled in the art that
the present invention provides an interactive apparatus for
exploring the principles of magnetic coupling and relative motion.
Numerous other formats are also envisioned including the goal to
produce specific patterns or to link a rotational-magnetic playing
piece on one position on the journal board to one or more
rotational-magnetic pieces at a distant spaced apart location. Such
an interactive apparatus is so adapted to be both enjoyable and
intellectually stimulating.
[0102] Referring to FIGS. 7-8B, a second preferred embodiment of a
construction set according to present invention is shown wherein an
octagon-shaped journal base board 120 is provided. Journal base
board 120 comprises a larger surface area and increased number of
pivot locations for enabling the formation of numerous patterns
from extended paths of magnetically coupled playing pieces.
Examples of such pattern of numerous large, medium and small
rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B and C are shown in FIG. 7
and in FIGS. 8A-8B.
[0103] Although not necessary to the embodiment, both
configurations rely on centrally located rotational-magnetic disk
crank 74 to initiate rotation of all magnetically coupled playing
pieces. In addition to having differing patterns FIG. 7 and FIGS.
8A-8B also show the application of differing graphical cover plates
as facilitated by the invention whereas cover plates 80, 81, and 82
are removable and differing graphical indication means can be
exchanged.
[0104] An interchangeable construction apparatus of this size is
provided to facilitate play whereas a large number of
rotational-magnetic playing pieces can be magnetically coupled for
producing relative motion resultant from the hand rotation of a
single drive crank. Numerous path formations and patterns can be
constructed as journal hole array 122 is of sufficient size and
density for adding a substantial number of rotational-magnetic
playing piece providing extended play for making the construction
device more enjoyable and captivating for the players.
[0105] Referring to FIGS. 9A-10E, a third preferred embodiment of
the amusement construction apparatus according to present invention
is shown whereas a circular journal board 30 is adapted to receive
rotational-magnetic ring crank 89 for facilitating rotation of
rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B, and C located within the
interior along journal hole array 31. Rotational-magnetic playing
pieces 62A, B and C are identical to the previous disclosed
embodiments. As opposed to the previous embodiments of centralized
rotational-magnetic disk crank 74 from which other
rotational-magnetic playing piece are generally placed near the
center of the journal hole array toward the outside, this third
preferred embodiment enables path formation from the outer boundary
of journal hole array 31 generally toward the center. Thus
rotational-magnetic ring crank 89, in conjunction with journal
board 30, provides the means for the unique outside-in format of
play.
[0106] Referring to FIGS. 9A-9C rotational-magnetic playing pieces
62A, B, and C are placed in several clusters which form small paths
linked to the inner parameter 93 of rotational-magnetic ring crank
89. Accordingly, the rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B, and
C will spin with rotation of rotational-magnetic ring crank 89 by
actuating rotational-magnetic ring crank 89.
[0107] Circular journal board 30 is characterized with a top
surface 35 and bottom surface 36. Annular slot 32 extends below top
surface 35 and is of sufficient width to accommodate ring body 90
of rotational-magnetic ring crank 89. Annular slot 32 thus provides
a means of concentrically locating ring body 89 around journal hole
array 31 and maintaining a substantially fixed axis of rotation for
rotational-magnetic ring crank 89. Journal board 30 further
comprises feet 34 which extend from bottom surface 36 and provide
support to journal board 30. Feet 34 preferably are rubber or a
gripping material to counteract torque applied by
rotational-magnetic ring crank 89 during play. While feet 34 are
shown as three, a larger number of feet are likely preferred to
prevent tilting of journal board 30 during manipulation of
rotational-magnetic ring crank 89.
[0108] Ring crank 89 comprises ring body 90 having top face 92,
bottom face (not shown), inside face 93 and outside face 94.
Internal magnets 96 are displaced in a circular pattern near inside
face 93. Circular pattern of internal magnets 96 are characterized
with an alternating radial polarity whereas alternating north and
south poles are oriented inward toward journal hole array 31 to
facilitate magnetic coupling with rotational-magnetic playing
pieces 62A, B and C. Internal magnets 96 are also characterized
with a substantially equivalent circular pitch as radial magnets 23
or rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B and C. Thus
rotational-magnetic ring crank provides inward magnetic coupling
with rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B and C when placed in
journal hole array 31 in a pivot position proximal to inside face
93 such that when rotational-magnetic ring crank 89 is rotated, one
or more rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B and C will also
rotate and experience relative motion. In the embodiment shown ring
body 89 comprises 108 rectangular magnets 96 around inside face
93.
[0109] According to the third preferred embodiment,
rotational-magnetic ring crank 40 also comprises revolving handle
97 extending from top face 92 of ring body 91. Revolving handle 97,
being able to freely spin and being mechanically coupled to ring
body 91, enables a player to operate the rotational-magnetic ring
crank 89 like a crank to provide continuous rotation.
Rotational-magnetic ring crank 89 is preferably made of a low
friction polymer material or alternatively comprises a low friction
film affixed to contacting faces 95 and 93 or 94.
[0110] Optionally ring body 90 may further comprises a catch means
(not shown) which interfaces with an undercut (not shown) of
journal board 30 to prevent rotational-magnetic ring crank 89 from
dislodging out of annular slot 32 during manual revolution of
rotational-magnetic ring crank 89. Such catch means could be a
snap-fit interface or utilize spring plungers which lock into a
recess to maintain attachment of rotational-magnetic ring crank 89
to journal board 30. Although a retention means can optionally be
added, this is not instrumental for practicing the inventions
whereas, in most embodiments, rotational-magnetic ring crank 89 is
of sufficient mass not to be easily dislodged from annular slot 32
of journal board 30.
[0111] FIGS. 10A-10E show a particular configuration pertaining to
a circular journal board embodiment whereas rotational-magnetic
playing piece 62A, B, and C are arranged in a symmetrical pattern
in which a cross is formed within journal hole array 32. Centrally
located large rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A, is
magnetically coupled to all four arms of the cross formation and
accordingly a larger gap is permitted between adjacent
rotational-magnetic playing piece 62C than would be necessary of
centrally located rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A was
magnetically coupled to only a single rotational-magnetic playing
piece. Optionally, the centrally located large rotational-magnetic
playing piece 62A could be replaced with a rotational-magnetic disk
crank 74 as shown in previous embodiments allowing rotary motion to
be initiated by actuating central disk crank 74 or by actuating the
ring crank 89. In this scenario, since the disk crank 74 (not
shown) would be coupled to ring crank 89 via four magnetically
coupled arms or rotational-magnetic playing pieces, sufficient
torque would be provided to rotate ring crank 89 via hand rotation
of the optionally placed disk crank 74 (not shown).
[0112] A particular advantage of the third preferred embodiment of
FIGS. 9-10E is the ability to magnetically couple
rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B and C directly to the
rotational-magnetic ring crank 89 so as to have stronger magnetic
coupling through all linked paths and to generate higher torques in
overcoming the inclination for magnetically coupled
rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B or C to lock up. Another
advantage to this embodiment as that as additional
rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B and C are added in
producing translated motion, a player can feel by touch a gradually
increased force required to spin rotational-magnetic ring crank 89.
This tactile aspect of play offers an added dimension to the game
as the player can actually "feel" the consequences of particular
rotary playing piece placement and predict the increasing
likelihood of the "gear train" locking up.
[0113] Referring to FIGS. 11A-11E, various configurations of large
medium and small cover plates 80A-H, 81A-H, 82A-H are shown adapted
for attachment of large, medium, and small rotational-magnetic
playing pieces 62A, B, and C respectively. Each of large cover
plates 80A-H comprise oblong hole 83A for fitting on slender oblong
handle portion 65A of large playing piece 62A. Each of medium cover
plates 81A-H comprise oblong hole 83B for fitting on slender oblong
handle portion 65B of medium playing piece 62B. Each of small cover
plates 82A-H comprise oblong hole 83C for fitting on slender oblong
handle portion 65C of small playing piece 62C.
[0114] In reference to FIG. 11A, graphical cover pieces 80A, 81A,
and 82A are provided with graphical elements to indicate radial
polarity and assist in visualizing magnet coupling (i.e., meshing)
between rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A, B, and C. Preferably
a high contrast is provided between visual indications means. For
example large medium and small visual indication means 87A, 88A,
and 89A respectively is designed with a dark color or pattern to
represent outward north while a light color or patter is adapted to
represent outward south polarity.
[0115] With regard to FIG. 11B, light and dark pie shaped sections
are not intended to represent magnetic polarity but allow a user
better visualize motion at higher rotational speeds than the cover
pieces of FIG. 11A since higher rotational speeds would be required
for larger graphical elements to appeared blurred during dynamic
motion.
[0116] With regard to FIG. 11C, pie shaped graphical elements are
provided in large, medium and small graphical indication means 87C,
88C, and 89C respectively whereas each pie shaped element is
provided with incrementally increasing darkness or shift in color.
When rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A, B, and C are configured
with large, medium and small cover plates 80C, 81C, or 82C a strobe
effect is visualized during dynamic rotation. Color signature of
each pie shaped elements can be adapted to simulate a blinking
light when undergoing rotary motion.
[0117] With regard to FIG. 11D visual indication means 87D, 88D,
and 89D are provided in a toothed configuration which may or may
not indicate alternating polarity of associated magnets.
[0118] With regard to FIG. 11E visual indication means 87E, 88E,
and 89E are provided with a spiral for visualizing rotary motion.
Perhaps spirals are one of best modes for visualizing rotary motion
as they give the appearance of constant expansion when rotated in
the proper direction. This is true if a counter-clockwise spiral is
rotated clockwise or a clockwise spiral is moving
counter-clockwise. As rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A, B and
C may be moving clockwise or counter-clockwise it is preferred to
provide large, medium and small graphical cover plates 80E, 81E and
82E respectively with a spiral on each side whereas the spiral is
counter-clockwise on the top and clockwise on the bottom. This
enables a person to configure all magnetically coupled
rotational-magnetic playing piece 62A, B and C to produce the
visual effect of a spiral that is constantly expanding when the
rotational-magnetic disk crank 74 or rotational-magnetic ring crank
89 is rotated.
[0119] As shown in the visual indication means 87E, 88E, and 89E of
FIG. 11E, graphical segments are superimposed within the spiral
design to also indicate magnetic polarity of associated
magnets.
[0120] With regard to FIG. 11F, circles are used as part of visual
indication means 87F, 88F, and 89F.
[0121] With regard to FIGS. 11G and 11H, a pinwheel type
configuration is used for visual indication means of large, medium
and small graphics 87G, 88G and 89G. This produces a unique visual
effect when undergoing rotary motion such that when spinning
rotational-magnetic playing pieces 62A, B, and C in one direction
it appears to be spinning the opposite direction. FIG. 12H shows a
dual pin-wheel design whereas it can be made to appear that the
inward and outward portions of corresponding rotary playing pieces
are spinning in opposite directions when undergoing rotary
motion.
[0122] Numerous other design and configurations of graphical
indications means for rotational-magnetic playing pieces are
envisioned under the scope of the present inventions. Graphical
cover plates provided are removable and interchangeable as to allow
a user to explore the visual effects of not only construction piece
pattern arrangement but the selection of graphical cover plates to
attach thereon. Thus the present invention of a rotational-magnetic
construction set allows for a high degree of customization.
[0123] Referring to FIGS. 12A-12B an alternative embodiment of a
rotational-magnetic disk crank 174 and small rotational-magnetic
playing piece 162C is shown as if they were placed on a journal
base board in a fixed spatial relationship. Although playing piece
162C looks identical to playing piece 62C of previous embodiments
having the same parameter 173C and disk crank 174 looks identical
to disk crank 74 of previous embodiments having the same parameter
162, the section view of FIG. 12B shows an alternative arrangement
of magnetic elements according to the present invention.
[0124] Referring to FIG. 12B, a section view is shown along a line
through disk bodies 164 and 164C of rotational-magnetic disk crank
174 and small rotational-magnetic playing piece 162C respectively.
When placed in proximity on a journal board, rotational-magnetic
disk crank 174 and small rotational-magnetic playing piece 162C are
magnetically coupled so that spaced apart north and north poles
provided by radial magnets 169 cause rotation of small
rotational-magnetic playing piece 162C when rotational-magnetic
disk crank 174 is rotated. This is facilitated primarily by the
repulsion of like poles between proximally located disk bodies 164
and 164C. Correspondingly, it is not necessary according to the
present invention that playing pieces comprise magnetized elements
of alternating outward polarity. Alternatively magnetized elements
can work primarily under repulsion whereas the magnetized elements
of all rotational-magnetic playing pieces are all arranged with the
same outward polarity, such as shown in FIG. 12B with all facing
outwardly north, or alternatively with all facing outwardly
south.
[0125] A significant advantage a construction set according to the
alternative embodiment of FIG. 12B is that all rotational magnetic
playing pieces would require half as many magnets as other
embodiments utilizing magnets arranged in a circular pattern of
alternating outward magnetic polarity, such as shown in FIG. 5C.
The magnetic elements account for a substantial portion of
manufacturing costs and therefore cutting the number of required
magnets in half will provide dramatic cost savings for
manufacturing the device.
[0126] Additionally, the alternative embodiment of FIGS. 12A-12B
allows for a smaller radial pitch P162, and P174 than as can
practically be achieved with twice the number of magnets having the
same widths. This allows circumferential spacing between magnets
can be optimized for improved magnetic coupling performance.
Additionally, the block magnet used could be of an increased radial
thickness that what could otherwise not be used when having to pack
twice the number of magnets within the same parameter.
[0127] Like previous embodiments, the circular magnetic pitch P174
of rotational-magnetic disk crank 174 and circular pitch P162C of
rotational-magnetic playing piece 162C are substantially equivalent
according to the invention as needed for effective coupling between
various sized playing pieces. Thus all rotational-magnetic
construction pieces including disk crank 174 and large, medium and
small rotational-magnetic construction pieces according to the
present invention will have a substantially equivalent circular
pitch for providing interchangeability whereas all
rotational-magnetic construction pieces can be effectively coupled
together.
[0128] The maximum working depth Dw of FIG. 12B and of FIG. 5C may
or may not be equivalent based on the particular design of
rotational magnetic playing pieces of the same type as disk crank
173 and playing piece 162C. Although a fewer number of magnetized
elements are involved, the mass, shape and positioning of the
magnetized elements 169 can be optimized to provide nearly
equivalent magnetic coupling performance as pertaining to previous
embodiments having twice the number of magnets 69 with alternating
outward polarity.
[0129] Other embodiments within the scope of the invention include
rotational-magnetic playing pieces configured for magnetic coupling
whereas embedded magnets of some rotary playing piece are all
arranged in an outward north polarity while playing pieces within
the construction have magnets all arranged with an outwardly south
polarity. Correspondingly, the principal magnetic interaction
between proximally placed rotational playing pieces could be either
repulsion or attraction depending on the combination. For example,
if a playing piece of outwardly north magnetization was placed near
a playing piece of outwardly south magnetization the magnetic
coupling would be primarily facilitated by the attraction of
opposite poles of interacting magnets. On the other hand, if a
playing piece of outwardly north magnetization was placed near a
playing piece also of outwardly north magnetization, magnetic
coupling between this pair would be facilitated by the repulsion of
like poles of interacting magnetic.
[0130] In addition, it is envisioned within the scope of the
invention to include magnetically susceptible ferromagnetic or
"soft magnetic" material between or around permanent magnets to
help direct magnetic flux and to optimize magnetic coupling between
rotational-magnetic playing pieces.
[0131] Although magnetic elements are shown as block magnets,
alternative embodiments could utilize magnets that are cylindrical,
pie-shaped or of other variable geometry.
[0132] Although the present invention has been described herein
with reference to a particular embodiment, it will be understood
that this description is exemplary in nature and is not considered
as a limitation on the scope of the invention. The scope and spirit
of the present invention is therefore only limited by the appended
claims and the reasonable interpretation thereof.
* * * * *