U.S. patent application number 14/076671 was filed with the patent office on 2014-05-15 for taste and smell game.
The applicant listed for this patent is Locke White, II. Invention is credited to Locke White, II.
Application Number | 20140131951 14/076671 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50680974 |
Filed Date | 2014-05-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140131951 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
White, II; Locke |
May 15, 2014 |
TASTE AND SMELL GAME
Abstract
Games are disclosed with a plurality of sensory pieces and rules
for playing the games utilizing at least some of the sensory pieces
to determine a winner among participating players. The plurality of
sensory pieces may include a plurality of flavor pieces, a
plurality of scent pieces, or both. The flavor pieces and scent
pieces may include both pleasant and unpleasant flavors and
scents.
Inventors: |
White, II; Locke;
(Blacksburg, VA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
White, II; Locke |
Blacksburg |
VA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
50680974 |
Appl. No.: |
14/076671 |
Filed: |
November 11, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61796353 |
Nov 9, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
273/429 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63F 2250/02 20130101;
A63F 2009/186 20130101; A63F 2250/022 20130101; A63F 9/18
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
273/429 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/00 20060101
A63F009/00 |
Claims
1. A game, the game comprising: a plurality of sensory pieces;
rules for playing a game utilizing at least some of the sensory
pieces to determine a winner among participating players.
2. The game of claim 1, wherein the plurality of sensory pieces
include a plurality of flavor pieces.
3. The game of claim 2, wherein the plurality of flavor pieces
includes multiple different flavors.
4. The game of claim 3, wherein the plurality of flavor pieces
includes pleasant and unpleasant flavors.
5. The game of claim 2, wherein the flavor pieces each include a
plurality of flavor strips.
6. The game of claim 5, wherein the flavor strips are digestible
flavored hydrocolloid film.
7. The game of claim 1, wherein the plurality of sensory pieces
include a plurality of scent pieces.
8. The game of claim 7, wherein the plurality of scent pieces
includes multiple different scents.
9. The game of claim 8, wherein the plurality of scent pieces
include pleasant and unpleasant scents.
10. The game of claim 7, wherein the plurality of scent pieces each
include a scent strip including micro-encapsulated scents.
11. The game of claim 1, wherein one or more of the plurality of
sensory pieces includes a tag with indicia associated with the
identity of the associated flavor or scent of each sensory
piece.
12. The game of claim 11, wherein the indicia is a number, and
wherein the game further comprises a key that cross-references the
number with one of a flavor or scent.
13. The game of claim 1, wherein the plurality of sensory pieces
include at least 200 different flavors or scents.
14. A method of playing a sensory game, the method comprising the
steps of: selecting a first player; the first player selecting a
sensory piece from a plurality of sensory pieces; the first player
sampling one of a flavor or scent from the selected sensory piece;
recording a time for the first player; selecting a second player;
the second player selecting a sensory piece from a plurality of
sensory pieces; the second player sampling one of a flavor or scent
from the selected sensory piece; recording a time for the second
player; and declaring a winner based on recorded times.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein each of the plurality of
sensory pieces is one of a flavor piece or a scent piece.
16. The method of claim 15 wherein the plurality of sensory pieces
includes multiple different scents and multiple different
flavors.
17. The method of claim 14, further comprising providing a timer,
wherein the time for each player is determined based on the amount
of time required to provide a correct identification of scent or
flavor associated with the selected sensory piece.
18. The method of claim 14, wherein the plurality of sensory pieces
includes both pleasant and unpleasant sensory pieces.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of the
filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/796,353,
"TASTE AND SMELL GAME," filed Nov. 9, 2012, which is incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This disclosure relates generally to games. More
particularly, it relates to sensory games involving identifying
scents, flavors, or both.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Parlor games, such as board and card games, are certainly a
huge source of revenue for all toy manufacturers. Over the years
they have been extremely popular with consumers like the legendary
ones including Monopoly.RTM., Scrabble.RTM., Life.RTM., and
Clue.RTM. that have been around for a long time; but there are
newer ones that have captivated the hearts and minds of many like
Pictionary.RTM. and Scattergories.RTM.. Even in today's world where
video games are extremely popular, parlor games still engage groups
of people to interact in ways that video games do not.
[0006] One recent game that has been a huge hit is Cranium.RTM..
The game was conceptualized after the inventor spent a weekend
playing games with his family and recognized the need for one
involving a variety of skills It challenges everyone by getting
them to use their mental, artistic, and physical abilities,
including their senses of sight and touch. Cranium.RTM. and all
other such parlor games, however, have never tested two particular
human senses--taste and smell.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] Games are disclosed with a plurality of sensory pieces and
rules for playing the game utilizing at least some of the sensory
pieces to determine a winner among participating players. The
plurality of sensory pieces may include a plurality of flavor
pieces, a plurality of scent pieces, or both. The flavor pieces and
scent pieces may include both pleasant and unpleasant flavors and
scents. Each of the plurality of sensory pieces may include a tag
with indicia associated with the identity of the associated flavor
or scent of each sensory piece. The indicia may be the name of the
associated flavor or scent, or may be a number. A key may be
provided that cross-references the number with one of a flavor or
scent.
[0008] In embodiments, the flavor pieces may each include a
plurality of flavor strips. The flavor strips may be digestible
flavored hydrocolloid film. Similarly, the plurality of scent
pieces may each include a scent strip including micro-encapsulated
scents. The plurality of scent pieces may be reusable. In
embodiments, the flavor pieces may be candy, such as hard candy,
jelly beans, licorice, or gum. The game may include at least 50
different flavors and/or scents in the various sensory pieces.
[0009] In some embodiments, the game may be played by selecting a
first player, with the first player selecting a sensory piece from
a plurality of sensory pieces. The first player may then sample the
flavor or scent from the selected sensory piece and guess the
flavor or scent. A score for the first player may be recorded. A
second player then plays the game and receives a score. One of the
players then wins based on the scores.
[0010] The scoring can be done using a timer, where the score for
each player may be determined based on the amount of time required
to provide a correct identification of the scent or flavor
associated with the selected sensory piece.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The figures illustrate specific aspects of the described
embodiments of sensory games. Together with the following
description, the figures serve to demonstrate and explain various
principles of the structures, components, and methods described
herein.
[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic drawing of an isometric view of an
exemplary embodiment of a sensory game including some flavor and
scent pieces.
[0013] FIG. 2A is a schematic drawing of a top isometric view of an
exemplary flavor piece of an embodiment of the invention.
[0014] FIG. 2B is a schematic drawing of a bottom isometric view of
the exemplary flavor piece of FIG. 2A.
[0015] FIG. 2C is a schematic drawing of a top isometric view of
the exemplary flavor piece of FIG. 2A with an open door to access
flavor strips held within the flavor piece.
[0016] FIG. 2D is a schematic drawing of an exemplary flavor
strip.
[0017] FIG. 3A is a schematic drawing of an exemplary scent
piece.
[0018] FIG. 3B is a schematic drawing of an isometric view of the
exemplary scent piece of FIG. 3A opened to provided access to a
scent panel.
[0019] FIG. 3C is a schematic drawing of an exemplary scent
piece.
[0020] FIG. 3D is a schematic drawing of an isometric view of the
exemplary scent piece of FIG. 3C opened to provided access to the
scent.
[0021] FIG. 4 is a schematic drawing of another exemplary
embodiment of a sensory game with flavor pieces and/or scent
pieces.
[0022] FIG. 5 is a schematic drawing of another exemplary
embodiment of a sensory game with multiple flavor/scent pieces
comprising strips individually wrapped.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0023] The following description supplies specific details in order
to provide a thorough understanding of various embodiments of the
invention. Nevertheless, the skilled artisan will understand that
the described sensory games and methods of making and using them
can be implemented and used without employing these specific
details. Indeed, the described games and methods of making and
using them can be placed into practice by modifying the specific
components and rules of the disclosed embodiments. For example,
while the description below includes an embodiment utilizing both
taste and smell senses, embodiments may include only one or the
other, or may be employed with completely different rules for
gameplay with the flavor and scent pieces of the disclosed
embodiments, or using different types of flavor and/or scent
pieces.
[0024] In addition, some terms, such as directions (e.g., on top
of, below, above, top, bottom, side, up, down, under, over, upper,
lower, lateral, orbital, horizontal, etc.), if provided, are
relative and provided solely by way of example and for ease of
illustration and discussion and not by way of limitation. Where
reference is made to a list of elements (e.g., elements a, b, c),
such reference is intended to include any one of the listed
elements by itself, any combination of less than all of the listed
elements, and/or a combination of all of the listed elements.
Furthermore, as used herein, the terms a, an, and one may each be
interchangeable with the terms at least one and one or more.
[0025] Sensory games and methods of making and playing them are
described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing
figures. In some embodiments, sensory games may include sensory
pieces that provide flavors or scents to challenge players to
identify the particular flavors or scents using their taste and
smell senses in a way that can be scored. Teams or individuals may
compete to be the best at identifying particular flavors and scents
provided with the game.
[0026] Referring now to FIG. 1, sensory game 10 may include box 12
along with flavor pieces 30, scent pieces 50, or both. Rules for
playing the game may be printed directly on the box, or may be
included with the sensory game as a separate sheet or booklet (not
shown). Additionally, various embodiments of sensory games may
include (in addition to flavor pieces 30, scent pieces 50, or both)
a playing board, movable pieces, dice, markers, scoring pads,
timers, electronic scoring devices, etc., or other game pieces and
devices used in parlor games, depending on the particular rules for
gameplay.
[0027] As shown in FIGS. 2A-2D, flavor pieces 30 may include
container 32 holding a number of flavor strips 20. Container 32 may
be provided to identify and protect flavor strips 20 for use in
games. Identifying tag 40 may be provided to identify the specific
flavor of flavor strip 20 contained in the particular container 32.
Tag 40 may be placed on any surface of container 32, however, when
placed on the bottom of container 32 and when a flavor strip 20 is
retrieved from container 32, the identity of the flavor may be
concealed during retrieval.
[0028] Container 32 may also have a selectively openable door 34 to
permit selective access to individual flavor strips 20 held within
container 32. Door 34 may be hinged and may securely close with a
detent interface. Door 34 may be integrally formed in container 32
such that the hinged portion is a thinner section allowing bending
to provide a pivot for door 34 to open and close. In some
embodiments, door 34 may be separate and may slide open to provide
access to the interior of container 32. In other embodiments,
container 32 may be a simple two-piece container with a base and a
removable lid instead of a door for accessing flavor strips 20.
Container 32 may be formed of plastic or any other suitable
container material for holding and protecting flavor strips 20.
[0029] Flavor strip 20 may be an edible film similar to those used
in dissolving breath strips. Flavor strips 20 may be a hydrocolloid
film made from hydrolyzed cellulose gum with added flavors and
sweeteners. Such hydrocolloid films are currently available and can
be made in a variety of flavors. Several different flavors may be
included with sensory game 10 to provide a wide variety of flavor
possibilities. For example, common flavors such as orange, apple,
vanilla, chocolate, etc., may be provided along with uncommon
flavors that game players would not expect such as ketchup, steak,
glazed donut, margarita, etc. In some embodiments, unpleasant
flavors may also be included such as ashtray, dirt, vomit, sour
milk, fish oil, etc. In any case, all flavors are safe for human
consumption.
[0030] In other embodiments, instead of flavor strip 20 as a
hydrocolloid film, flavor piece 30 may provide access to other
forms for carrying flavors such as: powder; liquid, solid, gel,
paste, candy, etc. For example, instead of container 32, a dropper
bottle that expends single drops of flavored fluid may be provided.
Similarly, plastic strips with flavorant coating may be provided
instead of dissolving strips.
[0031] Tag 40 may be provided on each individual flavor piece 30 to
identify the flavor of the flavor strips 20 contained in each
particular container 32. Tag 40 may simply provide a number that
can be looked up on a table printed on box 12, in a game booklet,
reference card, etc. For example, a number 4 may correspond to
pineapple and number 56 may correspond to vinegar. Tag 40 may also
simply provide the name of the flavor. Tag 40 may be provided on
the bottom of container 32 such that a random flavor piece 30 may
be selected and a flavor strip 20 retrieved from the container
without showing tag 40 and revealing the identity of the flavor
strip.
[0032] Tag 40 may be a sticker or may just be indicia on container
32 that is printed, embossed, engraved, stamped or otherwise
provided for identification. In some embodiments, tag 40 may fold
or slide open to reveal the identity. In other embodiments,
container 32 may be simply a cellophane wrapper around flavor strip
and tag 40 may simply be printed indicia on the cellophane wrapper.
Likewise, wrapped flavor strips can also be provided in a container
such as container 32.
[0033] Turning now to FIGS. 3A and 3B, scent pieces 50 may be a
folded piece of paper or other material, similar to fragrance
advertisement inserts sometimes included with magazines. Scent
pieces may include base 58, flap 52, scent strip 54, adhesive 56,
and may also include tag 40 or other indicia on the bottom of each
scent piece 50. When in place, flap 52 may be held down against
base 58 by adhesive 56 to protect the scent or flavor strip 54
within the scent/flavor piece 50. In some embodiments, scent pieces
50 may be reusable by replacing flap 52 against a reusable adhesive
56. In other embodiments, each scent piece 50 may be disposable.
Scent strip 54 may be scratch and sniff, such as is done with
micro-encapsulation coatings that rupture when rubbed to release a
scent.
[0034] In other embodiments of scent pieces, such as is shown in
FIGS. 3C and 3D, scent pieces 150 may each include a container 158,
such as a bottle or other container with sealable lid 152, and may
include scent body 154 that can be sampled by opening lid 152 to
release a scent. Such embodiments may be reused many, many times
until the scent is completely dispersed. In such embodiments,
container 158 may be formed of any suitable material such as
plastic, glass, etc.
[0035] Similarly, in other embodiments, container 158 may have a
flip-lid, and may have any suitable shape to provide access to a
scent contained within container 158. Similarly, scent body may be
attached to lid 152, or may be located within container 150. For
example, in another embodiment, container 158 may have the general
shape and size of container 32 for flavor strips 20, and may also
include a hinged lid that snaps shut to provide selected access to
a scent source within the container.
[0036] Similar to flavor pieces 30 discussed above, tag 40 may also
be included with scent pieces 50 to identify the particular scent.
Tag 40 may also be included on side or on the bottom of container
158 instead of on the side to conceal the identity of the
scent.
[0037] Also similar to flavor pieces 30, scent pieces 50, 150 may
come with a wide variety of different scents. As scents are
different from flavors, some scents may be available that are not
suitable for flavors and vice versa, allowing for a wide variety of
different sensory experiences with game 10. For example, a campfire
smell may not have a corresponding flavor just as copper flavor
doesn't have a corresponding scent. There are particularly
unpleasant odors that may be available that do not have a
reasonable corresponding flavor which may be used with game 10,
such as flatulence, decay and rot, rotten eggs, etc.
[0038] Because of the many different flavors and scents available,
game 10 could conceivably include hundreds of different flavors,
scents, or both. Any given game may include between 10 and 200 or
more different flavor pieces 30, or a similar number of scent
pieces 50, or some combination of the two. In more complex
embodiments, a game piece could be a combination of one or more
scents and/or flavors, such as peppermint apple cider, or chocolate
milk. Similarly, different game packs may be offered with a flavor
or scent theme or combination. For example, a tropical set could
include coconut, banana, and mango flavors or scents along with sea
water and shrimp flavors and ocean breeze and other tropical
scents. Another set may include disgusting scents and flavors, or
any of many other different combinations.
[0039] FIGS. 4 and 5 provide examples of how the game can be
presented according to various embodiments. For example, FIG. 4
provides a sensory game with multiple flavor pieces and/or scent
pieces presented in individual containers. Similarly, FIG. 5
provides another example of a sensory game with multiple
flavor/scent pieces comprising strips individually wrapped in a
cellophane, plastic, or paper type wrap.
[0040] In other embodiments, one or more opaque bags may be
included with game 10 to hold different flavor pieces 30 or scent
pieces 50 to allow for random selection. In some embodiments,
flavors and scents may be grouped based on various factors such as
level of difficulty or level of unpleasantness. For example, a dice
may be rolled that determines from which bag a player may select
and flavor piece 30 or scent piece 50, or whether or not a scent or
flavor piece is to be selected. In other embodiments, additional
points may be offered for correctly guessing unpleasant flavors and
scents.
[0041] In one embodiment, game 10 may be played by between two and
at least 10 players. Game 10 may be played with a first player
taking one flavor strip 20, putting it on their tongue, and
starting a timer. The first player can hold up the container so all
of the other players can see the flavor printed on the container
but not the first player. As soon as the first player has an
answer, that player screams it out. The other players can then
immediately see if the answer is correct by comparing it with tag
40 on the container and the identity of the flavor. If the first
player is correct the clock is immediately stopped, the time is
recorded, and the next player is up. If the player is wrong, they
keep guessing as the timer continues until time expires or until a
correct answer is given.
[0042] In another round, a player may take one scent strip 50, open
it, start a timer, and smell the scent. As soon as the player has
an answer for the scent, the player screams it out. Their answer is
then crosschecked with tag 40 and the identity of the scent
selected. If the answer is correct, the timer is immediately
stopped, the time is recorded, and the next player is up. If the
answer is wrong the timer keeps running until a correct answer is
given or until the time runs out. Game 10 may proceed for a
predetermined number of rounds with everyone randomly taking flavor
strip 20 and/or scent strip 50. At the end of rounds, all times for
each player are added up and the player with the lowest amount is
declared the winner.
[0043] Of course, many different possibilities exist for the
particular rules of game play. In some embodiments, game 10 can be
used as a challenge game for an entire party of people, with each
guest taking a single turn or as many as they want, with the
shortest time being announced or receiving a prize. In other
examples, game 10 may include a game board, player tokens, and
dice. The dice may be rolled that determines a number of spaces on
a game board for the token to move or may determine the type of
scent or flavor to be sampled. Similarly, the game board may have
various colored spaces that determine the type of flavor or scent
to be sampled. An incorrect guess may require the player to move
back a number of spaces or a correct guess may allow a token to be
advanced some number of spaces.
[0044] In addition to any previously indicated modification,
numerous other variations and alternative arrangements may be
devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the
spirit and scope of this description, and appended claims are
intended to cover such modifications and arrangements. Thus, while
the information has been described above with particularity and
detail in connection with what is presently deemed to be the most
practical and preferred aspects, it will be apparent to those of
ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications, including,
but not limited to, form, function, manner of operation and use may
be made without departing from the principles and concepts set
specifically discussed. Also, the examples and embodiments, in all
respects, are meant to be illustrative only and should not be
construed to be limiting in any manner.
* * * * *