AU2020379389B2 - Game playing apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

Apparatus for use in the playing of a game involving skill in directing spherical pieces into holes of different sizes includes a board mounted on a support structure. The board is in substantially a single plane, and the surface has a peripheral edge adapted for allowing a spherical playing piece used with the apparatus reaching the edge in play to roll over the edge, and a plurality of apertures sized to allow passage therethrough of the playing pieces; The support structure supports the surface above a collecting structure for collecting playing pieces that may fall from the board either through the apertures or over the peripheral edge.

Description

GAME PLAYING APPARATUS

Field of invention

[01] This invention relates to apparatus for use in the playing of a game involving skill in directing spherical pieces into holes of different sizes. Specifically, the apparatus includes a board mounted on a support structure configured for recovering pieces that have fallen through the holes in the board.

Background to the invention

[02] Numerous games of skill in which a participant causes a ball or other object to be directed towards a pocket or other receptacle are known.

[03] Billiards and snooker for example require players to direct balls of differing scoring significance into pockets arranged at corners and midway along the long sides of a rectangular table having raised boundary sides. The balls when sunk into the pockets are in some table designs captured in gutters and allowed to roll under gravity to a collection receptacle. Miniature billiards tables are known, for table-top set-up. These are replicas of full-size games tables and include the use of cues. The cues carry a risk of injury - especially in respect of young players.

[04] Traditional games played with marbles effectively demonstrate Newton’s particle theory on a molecular scale. Like snooker balls, ricocheting marbles simulate the behaviour of gases in two dimensions. However, a spinning marble simulates the trajectory of orbits of moons, planets and galaxies, theoretically linking them with the behaviour of particles at atomic scale. Theories about curved time and space can represent the principle of spin, which has been held responsible for the core nature of the universe.

[05] There are many variations on the game of marbles. Traditional forms tend to have been played out of doors on a patch of dirt and have involved a player wagering a marble in the centre of a roughly drawn circle. Competing players then attempt to knock the wagered marble from the circle by flicking their own marbles at it in turn, until the marble has been knocked out of play. Apart from the actual marbles, no other apparatus is required. A player may use a cue or their finger to propel a ball at a targeted hole. [06] United States patent no. US 2,240,871 discloses a game board having holes in it, through which a ball is able to pass. The board may be set to be inclined or level. To allow inclination, the board is hingedly attached to a rear wall below the rim of the wall, so that the wall provides a barrier to a ball falling from the hinged end of the board. Side barriers provide further confinement means to keep balls from falling from the board, except through the holes. While this provides a challenge to the player, the retention of balls on the playing surface by the high sides removes a potential extra dimension from game-play - that of the risk of over-hitting a ball so that it rolls off the board.

[07] The present inventor has perceived a need for a game that does not have a primary purpose of confining a playing piece to a playing area and that makes use of the capacity of a spherical playing piece such as a glass marble to follow a curved orbit-like path when imparted with spin.

Objects of the invention

[08] It is an object of this invention to address the shortcomings of the prior art and, in doing so, to provide ball-game playing apparatus that is simple to set up and allows for the playing of a game on no more than a single playing surface having score giving holes passing through it. Preferably, it should include means for recovering balls that have dropped through the score-giving holes.

[09] It is a further objective to provide new game apparatus that does not rely on implements such as sticks and cues for striking the spheres.

[010] The preceding discussion of the background to the invention is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention. However, it should be appreciated that the discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to was part of the common general knowledge in Australia or elsewhere as at the priority date of the present application.

[011] Further, and unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words ‘comprise’, ‘comprising’, and the like are to be construed in the inclusive sense of “including, but not being limited to” - as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense meaning “including this and nothing else”. Summary of invention

[012] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided game playing apparatus comprising: a. a playing surface in substantially a single plane, the surface having: i. a periphery defined by a peripheral edge adapted for allowing a spherical playing piece used with the apparatus reaching the edge in play to roll over the edge; and ii. a plurality of apertures within the periphery, the apertures sized to allow passage of a spherical playing piece therethrough; and b. a support structure operatively supporting the surface above a collecting structure adapted for collecting playing pieces that, in the course of players using the apparatus, fall from the board either through the apertures or over said peripheral edge.

[013] The peripheral edge may be adapted to include a raised skirting extending along the peripheral edge, for allowing a rolling playing piece having sufficient kinetic energy to overcome gravity to mount said skirting and fall over said edge.

[014] Preferably, the skirting slopes up from the planar playing surface.

[015] In an embodiment, only a portion of the peripheral edge is adapted to slope.

[016] Preferably, the playing surface in the apparatus of the invention is marked to define at least two zones.

[017] The apparatus may comprise a line on the surface for separating adjacent zones.

[018] A first zone may include the apertures.

[019] The first zone may have a waxed surface.

[020] In an embodiment, a second zone is adapted for a spherical playing piece to be launched therefrom towards the first zone. The second zone may be adapted by being bounded in part by a concave portion of the periphery. [021] In an embodiment, the surface comprises a third zone between the first and the second zones. Preferably, the third zone is free of apertures.

[022] In an embodiment of the apparatus, the apertures are arranged in the playing surface so that there is no straight, aperture-free path exceeding the diameter of a playing piece between the second zone and the distal edge of the first zone.

[023] Preferably, the apertures are arranged so that their centres are located on a generally spiral path. Further preferably, the apertures are located on first and second intersecting Fibonacci spirals.

[024] in an embodiment, apertures are located at the intersection points.

[025] In a preferred form of the invention, the playing surface is planar.

[026] In an embodiment, the apertures are circular.

[027] Preferably, the apertures are of two or more different sizes.

[028] In a yet further preferred form of the invention, the playing surface is applied to a rigid board.

[029] Preferably, the support structure comprises a housing having first and second opposite ends, a base and, connected thereto, an upstanding support element on which the board is beatable to rest.

[030] The base preferably defines a floor for the housing that comprises formations operatively adapted for biasing a spherical playing piece that falls thereon to roll to an end of the housing.

[031] In an embodiment, the housing comprises outer walls connected to the base and spaced from the board, whereby a playing piece falling from the board may be gathered within the walls and roll under bias to said housing end.

[032] In a preferred embodiment, the housing defines a chamber between board and base, wherein spherical playing pieces that fall through the apertures in play are gathered and returned under bias to a collection zone at said end.

[033] In a still further preferred form of the invention, the apparatus comprises a levelling mechanism operable to adjust inclination the playing surface. [034] The levelling mechanism may comprise height-adjustable supporting feet, each foot being independently connected to the structure by an associated screw-threaded connector, operable to adjust the level of the playing surface relative to the foot.

[035] The levelling mechanism may include a level indicator. The level indicator may comprise a bullseye float device.

[036] The apparatus may include at least one spherical playing piece. In a preferred embodiment, the or each playing piece is a glass marble.

[037] In a further embodiment, the apertures are colour coded, each colour representing a score associated with sinking of a playing piece through the aperture concerned.

[038] Still further, in an embodiment, the apparatus includes a storage space for one or more playing pieces.

[039] The storage space may comprise a tray that is withdrawable at least partially from the housing.

[040] In a further embodiment, the apparatus includes a computer and system managed by said computer, the system being configured to capture data pertaining to a game being played by a player using the apparatus for processing by said computer.

[041] The data preferably includes data for mapping the outcome of each play in the game.

[042] The apparatus may include a spatial location mapping system for recording the location on the playing surface of a playing piece after a play, said mapping system being managed by the computer.

[043] In a further embodiment, the apparatus is configured to be operatively connectable over a distributed computer communications network with remote compatible apparatus, whereby said player may compete with a player using the remote apparatus.

[044] The apparatus may also include a computer managed placement device configured for placing a playing piece assigned to represent the piece of a remotely located player on the playing surface of present apparatus at a location corresponding to a location of said playing piece on the playing surface of the remote apparatus. [045] In an embodiment, the apparatus includes a playing surface re-waxing system operatively controlled by the computer.

[046] The apparatus may further include a self-levelling system operatively controlled by the computer to level the playing surface.

Brief description of drawings

[047] In order that the invention may be readily understood, and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to the accompanying figures. Thus:

Figure 1 shows a front perspective view of the game playing apparatus of this invention in one embodiment.

Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 1.

Figure 3 is a top view of the playing surface of the invention embodiment of Figure 1.

Figure 4 is a partially exploded side elevation of the apparatus with playing board lifted away from the supporting base and housing.

Figure 5 is a front-end elevation showing the internal cross-sectional profile taken on line A-A’ in Figure 4 in ghost lines, with playing board in operative position in the housing.

Figure 6 is a rear-end elevation showing the internal cross-sectional profile taken on line B-B’ in Figure 4 in ghost lines, with playing board in operative position in the housing.

Figure 7 illustrates a board layout in a preferred embodiment of the invention.

Figure 8 is a diagram showing the derivation of the layout in Figure 7.

Figure 9 is a perspective view of an automated version of the apparatus of this disclosure in game playing mode.

Figure 10 is a perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 9 in automatic mode for computer-controlled placement of playing pieces.

Figure 11 is an underneath perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 9. Figure 12 is a view of the underside of the apparatus of Figure 9.

Figure 13 is a partially exploded view of the apparatus of Figure 9.

Figure 14 is a side view of a portion of the apparatus of Figure 9 showing direction of pivoting of the placement system for automated playing piece placement.

[048] In the description that follow, like reference numerals designate like parts in the different views in the figures above.

Detailed description of an embodiment of the invention

[049] The apparatus of the invention is intended for use in a game that combines elements of golf, snooker and bowling into a coffee table-sized playing unit with which marbles or similar sized spheres may be used. It will be appreciated that the new game apparatus does not rely on implements such as sticks and cues for striking the spheres. Preferably, players should use their fingers to launch a playing piece into play. Use of the fingers is advantageous because it enables a player to experiment with imparting different kinds of spin to the piece. A cue could impart a limited range of spin options, but carries the risk of damaging the playing surface in the serving zone, especially when underspin and backspin are attempted.

[050] The description that follows and that accompanying drawings are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting of the scope of the invention. Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of the presently disclosed embodiments. However, in certain instances, well-known or conventional details are not described in order to avoid obscuring the description. References to one or an embodiment in the present disclosure are not necessarily references to the same embodiment; and such references mean at least one. The invention may be implemented in numerous embodiments, all of which fall within the scope of this disclosure, as defined by the claims.

[051] Reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but not for other embodiments. In particular, it will be noted that the apertures on the board may be located according to different layouts. There may be many board layouts using the same support and recovery structure.

[052] The apparatus will be described in embodiments in which the spherical playing pieces take the form of glass marbles. This is merely for convenience and should be considered exemplary rather than limiting. As discussed further on, the spheres may be made from other materials within the scope of the disclosure, for example, steel, ceramics, wood and plastics. Referring to the accompanying figures, a preferred embodiment of the game playing apparatus of the invention is shown, generally denoted by the number 10 in Figure 1 and shown respectively in front and rear perspective views in Figures 1 and 2. However, a preferred embodiment of the board layout is discussed later, with reference to Figure 7.

[053] The apparatus in the embodiment of Figure 1 has an open box-like housing 12 with a rectangular footprint. The housing is defined by outer side walls 14, 14’ each connected to a front end-wall 16 and a rear end wall 18. All are connected to and stand erect in relation to a base 20. The housing and playing board are timber, but may in other embodiments be formed from any other suitable material. Timber is preferred in this embodiment for the elegant look that it helps achieve when suitably treated and polished. The board needs to be sufficiently thick in its material of manufacture not to sag or buckle under normal playing conditions. The uppermost surface layer of the board in-play zone 42 is preferably given a wax finish, to promote any spin imparted by a player to a glass playing marble. The waxed portion would exclude the serving zone 36 and roll zone 38 to be described below.

[054] The box like housing is partially covered by a substantially rigid rectangular playing board 22, presenting a treated outer playing surface 24. The board is mounted within the housing so that it is raised above the base, so that the playing surface is generally at the level of the side 14,14’, and end walls 16, 18, but is spaced from them by at least the diameter of the largest marble to be used. Unless a marble leaves the board at great speed, it will fall over peripheral edge 30 into the space between the edge and the adjacent outer wall. If the speed is great enough, the marble may bounce up off and over the adjacent outer wall. [055] At the bottom of the space to the longer sides of playing surface 24 lie return gutters 32, 32’ which slope towards front wall 16. The object of the game, according to one version of the rules associated with the apparatus, is to cause the marbles to fall into one of the holes 40, formed in board 22, scoring points according to the points value allocated to the hole concerned. In another version of the game, the objective may be to cause the marble to avoid all of the holes 40 and fall over distal rear edge 48, into the portion 32” of the space that is adjacent to and bounded by rear end wall 18, and on to the rear portion of base 20.

[056] Playing surface 24 is divided by line markings 26, 28 into three discrete parts, the purpose of which will be described below. Line 26, the service line is formed as a resin-lined groove, whereas line 28 serves as a strike line and is flush-filled with resin. Resin is also used for lining the holes 40 against premature wear and degradation. Front wall 16 has a curvilinear upper edge that defines a recess for facilitating handy access to the playing surface and to a space beneath, described further below.

[057] In this embodiment, playing surface 24 has an arcuate cutback 34, exposing a significant portion of the base 20 and the chamber situated within the housing below board 22. Between cutback 34 and line 26 is a serving zone 36 on playing surface 24. According to a version of the rules of the game to be played with the apparatus, a marble or other form of playing sphere is served by a participant by resting it on the surface in the zone and causing the marble to roll from the serving zone towards one of the target holes 40. It will be appreciated that the apparatus may be used in playing games according to more than one variation of the rules. Holes 40 are located in an end zone 42, which is divided from an intermediate zone 38 by line 28. Intermediate zone 38 lies between lines 26 and 28. The lines may be of the same or different colours and the significance of each may vary under different game rules.

[058] Between base 20 and board 22 is a tunnel-like space 44 into which marbles that drop from the playing surface through holes 40 are gathered. The portion of space 44 that extends beneath board 22 from end wall 28 to front end 16 is bounded laterally by supporting walls 54,54’ that support board 22, spacing it from base 20 and resulting in a tunnel like structure. Base 20 is configured so that it slopes from a ramp portion 20’ abutting rear wall 18 towards front wall 16 and has forward-sloping side gutters 52,52’ located between support walls 54, 54’ on which board 22 is supportively mounted. Locating formations in the form of a tenon lock insert 56 and receiving recess 58 can be seen in Figure 4, for ensuring correct location of the playing board 22 when re-mounted in the housing as suggested by directional arrows D.

[059] Marbles falling on to base 20 gravitate along base 20 or via the gutters to retrieval zone 46 adjacent front wall 16.

[060] Within base 20 is a drawer 60 in which marbles 62 may be stored, when the apparatus is not in use, or is being relocated or stowed. The drawer is accessible through a slot 64 formed in rear wall 18 and has a protruding finger grip 66 to facilitate its withdrawal from the slot.

[061] The game played with the apparatus of the invention marries elements of golf, snooker and bowling into a coffee table-sized form of marbles, but without the need for using sticks for hitting the ball or marbles and dirt to play on.

[062] The apparatus of the invention may be used in a game that may be played with one or any number of participants. It can be as serious or relaxing as a game of golf. It requires as much or as little skill as ten-pin bowling or lawn bowls and can be scored or played with many variations, as in the case of snooker, billiards or pool. The rules of the game may be simple or complex: The objective is always to sink marbles, as in golf or snooker, pool and billiards.

[063] It is crucial to the game that the board be level or as close to level as possible. To negate irregularities in the surface the board is placed on, the mounting structure supporting the board has four adjustable levelling feet 68 and an on-board screwdriver 70, stowed in a shaped recess 72 in the base. A bullseye float 74 is built into the base forward of the arcuate front-end recess 34 in the board for quick reference in levelling. It is set flush with the upper surface of base 20. To adjust the level of the playing surface, screws 76 within threaded axial bores 78 within the feet structures are able to be turned using the supplied screwdriver, to advance or retract the screws and lower or raise the feet to which they are connected.

[064] An example of a method of playing a game with the apparatus described above will now be described. Referring to Figure 2, a first player (not shown), who has been nominated to begin the game, begins it by serving a sphere, in this example a glass marble 80 on to the playing area on upper surface 24 of the board. The player serving does this by striking or flicking their marble from serving area 36 adjacent recess 34, or even from a location upon grooved line 26. In this example, the marble is shown to be taking a path 82, shown by a dotted line, from the point of serving to an aperture 40’. If the marble is small enough to enter and pass through the circular aperture, then it will score points allocated to that aperture for the player concerned. If it should miss the aperture, it will fall off the playing surface at the distal peripheral edge 48 to be gathered in collection area 32”, before rolling under bias to the near end at wall 16, to the marble retrieval zone 46 (see Figure 3). Sphere 80 may alternatively fall from a side edge of the playing surface and be gathered in sloping gutter 32, to make its way back to the retrieval zone via this route. It may happen instead that marble 80 rebounds off the edge of aperture 40 and heads in the direction of a different aperture, into which it may fall to score points under the applicable rules.

[065] Each hole 40 is colour coded in a predetermined order, for example: orange, white, green, black, red, yellow, pink and blue, according to aperture difficulty levels corresponding to the Fibonacci Series. 1,1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13 and 21. However, the points value to be awarded for each hole may be open to negotiation by the starting participants before a game begins, depending on the rules or variations decided by players. In certain embodiments of the apparatus, some holes may be perceived as being easier to sink than others, so their values can be adjusted following the example of the kind of handicap system found in golf, depending on player ability.

[066] The difficulty of the game may be increased by requiring a player to nominate the hole at he is aiming, before serving a marble to win the points. If the player misses the nominated hole, no points are scored, even if the marble falls into another of the holes. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, there is no straight path exceeding the diameter of a playing piece between the concave cutback 34 in zone 36 where serving of the marble takes place and the distal peripheral edge of zone 42 that contains the apertures. This arrangement is intended to give even the least skilled players a good opportunity to sink a marble with each shot. However, sinking is not a certainty, because of the different hole sizes and the likelihood that the marble will rebound from the lip of an aperture and fall out of bounds over the edge of the board. Other embodiments of the apparatus may include straight paths from end to end of the playing surface that are free of holes, increasing the level of skill required from players to sink their marble in an aperture.

[067] The layout of the holes on playing surface 24 of the board is not haphazard. The hole locations are selected so as to accommodate a large number of game scenarios and possibilities, as well as significant variations in players’ ability. It has already been mentioned that the holes may be located to avoid providing a clear straight line between a point of service in serving zone 36 and the distal edge of the board. This layout is intended to assist a novice player to score at least a point from every service. However, Figure 7 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the board layout, suitable for more advanced players. Like parts discussed in relation of Figures 1 to 6 have like numbering. The key variation in this layout is that each of the holes 40 is located to be centred on a portion of a graph of a logarithmic spiral, specifically in this embodiment a Fibonacci spiral, also known as the Golden Spiral. The set of holes in this embodiment numbers eight. They are distributed along two intersecting Fibonacci spirals 86, 96.

[068] How the layout is arrived at is explained with reference to Figure 8. Figure 8(a) illustrates the first of the spirals, 96 against the background of the divisions within the Golden rectangle 94. If spiral 96 is considered to lie in the x-z spatial plane, and a second spiral 86A is generated in (b) as a mirror image of graph 96 mirrored over the x-axis, as shown by arrow X, and spiral 86A is then flipped over the y-axis in (c), as shown by arrow Y, it remains resident in the x-z plane. Spiral 86 is then superimposed on spiral 96 to provide the image in (d), in which the spirals are in opposing symmetry.

[069] The locations of holes 40 are chosen for avoiding direct symmetry and the spacings between the holes are chosen for providing an ascending degree of difficulty the further the holes are located from the serving zone 36, behind service line 26. Inherent in the skills that players are encouraged to develop for dealing with this board layout is the ability to spin the marble. A spinning marble possesses a certain momentum in opposition to the friction and viscous forces acting between the marble and the board surface. These opposing forces vary as the marble encounters first dry, and then waxed, surfaces on the board. The dry surface referred to is in serving zone 36 and hole-free roll zone 38. The waxed surface is in zone 42, where the holes are found. However, it is envisaged that in an alternative embodiment, the intervening zone 38 may be made progressively more highly waxed as the marble moves from the serving zone to zone 42.

[070] A spinning marble encountering wax takes on a more pronouncedly curved trajectory that resembles a Fibonacci spiral, rather than a straight trajectory. By mastering spin, a player is able to cause their marble to circumvent a relatively low scoring hole in favour of a higher scoring hole. This has the advantage of inviting more indirect play paths and scoring strategies from players.

[071] In the preferred embodiment employing the board of Figure 7, the ball return, board housing and table proportions adhere to Fibonacci’s golden ratio of 1 to 1.618. The aperture layout is selected to reference this and thereby to incorporate naturally occurring curves and parabolas that are congruent with methods of spinning marbles to achieve the curved trajectories.

[072] When the holes are located on a spiral path, the player is encouraged to aim at a high scoring hole, and impart spin to the marble to cause it to follow a spiral path similar to that of the holes and indirectly reach the high scoring hole being targeted.

[073] A spiral is a structure defined mathematically by way of a graph that continues on through space and time infinitely. In search of a balance on the game board to parallel the playing of the present game, the spiral needs opposing force, just as a waxed surface exerts an opposing force on a spinning marble. The holes illustrated in the figures may appear to be in random order, yet in the preferred embodiment of Figure 7 they adhere to the specific paths created by the two intersecting Fibonacci spirals, which create visual and numerical balance.

[074] The spirals intersect at six points. Holes are located to be generally centred on these points. Both spiral centres 88, 98 are intersection points. Two of the holes, 40a and 40b, are not located at an intersection. It will be appreciated that these holes may optionally be repositioned, or omitted altogether, or further holes may be added, preferably to be located on the spiral paths. Equal numbers of holes are required on each spiral, if balance in the apparatus and game is to be preserved.

[075] The bottom spiral 96, closest to service line 26, spirals downward at first, and then upward and away, while the top spiral complements this motion-like effect, spiralling down towards the player before bending off the board to the left. The two spirals create a harmonic lemniscate, resembling a figure 8.

[076] Further balance may optionally be added to the board by means of a low skirting 84, slopingly raised along the outer edge perimeters of the in-play zone 42. They may also be extended to the remaining outer peripheral edges of the board in other embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The profile of the board with these skirting is illustrated in Figure 7(b), as a cross section taken along line A-B in Figure 7(a). The skirtings have a rounded upper profile, so that a marble with sufficient momentum will still be able to roll up the skirting and fall out of the in-play zone.

[077] In an exemplary embodiment, the height of the skirting above the major plane of the board surface is about 1mm. However, the height may be lower or higher without departing from the concept of the apparatus, provided that the skirting is not so high that a marble will bounce back from it rather than decelerating and falling back under the influence of gravity. When a marble encounters the skirting, gravitational force exerted on the marble tends to draw it back to the planar playing surface. This can be considered to simulate the gravitational pull of a black hole towards the two most central holes on the board 88,98. These are central to the game structure when the preferred embodiment of the board is utilized. Players of less skill will find the skirting of use in keeping their piece in play, while the more skilled will develop plays that make use of the roll-back capability the skirting affords them to make more indirect shots at the holes.

[078] Estimations of the degree of difficulty of scoring at each hole are based on factors including the proximity of the targeted hole to the closest peripheral edge, when viewed from the same launch window at the service line. The points of intersection of the spirals define three zones. These zones form the basis of the game board and the scores allocated to the holes. Immediately adjacent strike line 28, which defines the proximate edge of the in-play zone 42, is a first transitional zone 90. Within zone 90 are holes 40b, 40c and 40d. Because of its closer proximity to a lateral edge of the board, the hole 40c is calculated to be easier than hole 40b to score from, even though the latter appears to be placed closer to service line 26. A second transition zone 92 is located at the far end of in-play area 42 and includes the hole located over the centre 88 of spiral 86, as well as the next three holes located sequentially on that spiral. The most difficult hole in which to sink the marble is calculated to be hole 40e, which marks an end zone 100. This hole is adjacent hole 40d at the end of spiral 96 and has a small launch window W, when viewed from the service line 26. Ricocheting the marble into this hole is technically the hardest shot to play and earns a successful player significant number of points compared with other holes. Although other holes may have smaller launch windows, they are located closer to the edges where the skirting assists in adding to the potential angles of attack available to a player.

[079] The game played on the board may be scored like golf, but in sets like tennis. For example, the rules may allow five shots per player, with the player accumulating the highest score after three sets being declared winner. Scores will rarely reach the high teens per set. However, if a player is skilled enough to sink a ricocheted marble into a high scoring hole, this is usually a game changer because of the accumulation of points attaching to such a shot. [080] The apparatus is designed for portability, allowing it to be set up almost anywhere there is a reasonably level surface. The built-in marble storage drawer allows the whole game apparatus to travel as a complete unit. The use of the Golden ratio in determining the dimensions of the board and the positioning of the holes facilitates the lengthening of the board relative to its breadth. This simulates the spatial requirements of larger area bowling games and gives a form that facilitates the spinning of marbles for achieving curved trajectories in play. In turn, these spatial parameters enable a player to develop and use various kinds of spin when releasing a marble on to the board, non limiting examples including orthodox spin, natural spin, hook shots, topspin, underspin and others. Of course, unspun shots may be played too.

[081] It will be appreciated that although the illustrated embodiments are adapted for setting up on a table, other embodiments may be stand-alone units with supports such as legs or stands. These may also be height adjustable.

[082] The current preferred embodiment of the apparatus employs a standard 16mm glass or ceramic marble. This has been selected to allow the game apparatus to be portable. It also reduces the minimum hole size needed, thereby expanding the available level area on the board, increasing the skill levels required or that a player may develop. Marbles need to be as close to perfect spherically to be accurately played. Cheaper marbles that tend to be of low quality are often irregular in shape and unevenly weighted. A quality set of marbles is recommended. A player only needs one marble to join a game, although a set of five per player is useful for general play and practice. Future generations of the game may include larger 21mm and 32mm diameter marbles. This will potentially be played with players sitting opposite one and other. Instead of glass marbles, spheres of other suitable materials may be used. Examples are metals such as steel alloys, hardwoods, high density plastics such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or ABS, rubber compounds and stone, such as granite and marble. Less preferred are low density materials that may have a propensity to be propelled over the confinement barriers around the playing area. It is preferable that the spheres should roll along the playing surface and rebound from the barriers into the playing area rather than become airborne.

[083] In a further embodiment, the game board in embodiments previously discussed is adapted for computerised scorekeeping. It is fitted with an array of sensors connected to a central processing unit (CPU) that is programmed to keep score using executable game logic instructions. [084] The system is further adaptable for online gameplay. Online play may be conducted over a distributed computer communications network such as the internet. In this embodiment, the board is fitted with an array of sensors and actuators, together with central command/processing unit, a digital display, as well as Bluetooth and/or WiFi connectivity, by way of example. Any suitable wireless communications system and protocol may be employed. The sensors collect data for mapping the outcome of each play after a service or other shot and feed it via a data bus to a data storage module for accessing and retrieval by the processing unit.

[085] The processing unit calculates a score and the sequence of play from the data it accesses or receives. It also calculates remote ball positioning based on data received from the computer of a remote opponent and prepares data packets for transmission to the remote opponent’s computer to communicate the position of the local player’s marble. This positioning data is used in the event of an online opponent landing a ball at a stationary position on the board in an attempt to block the local player. A computer numerically controlled (CNC) object placement device is instructed via the processing unit to place the marble of a remotely located competitor on the board at a location that corresponds to the position detected by the sensors on the board of that remote player. Pressure or optical sensors, communicating with the processing unit, are mounted at every aperture for detecting marbles that are sunk at the aperture concerned.

[086] In this embodiment, application software connects the processor to an online portal using methods known in the art. Players register via the portal to upload their game data in real time, permitting and enabling real time competition between two or more players competing remotely. It will be appreciated that the processing unit may be found in a portable communications device such as a mobile telephone handset. When loaded with the applications software for managing a game using the board, a game player is able to activate the software and record his play and allow the processing unit to calculate the outcome and score, before communicating the salient date to the player’s opponent’s similar device running the same or compatible software. The software operates the devices to keep score, manage the sequence of play and determine the eventual winner.

[087] The actuators activate board-waxing devices that traverse the board at controllable intervals between plays to maintain a quality surface. Feedback sensors provide surface data that is transmitted to the remote participants to ensure that their board waxing systems maintain their surfaces at the same standard. [088] The surface waxing devices, together with a ball clearing and placement unit may be fitted on parallel linear actuators, enabling automatic marble clearing, board waxing and marble positioning to be performed for a “smart” game board. Marble positioning may be achieved using computational numerical methodologies informed by the spatial data collected from the sensor array.

[089] To detect marbles that may remain on the in-play surface after a shot (where board does not clear), a detection and ranging system, for example a dual LIDAR system, is installed. LIDAR is an acronym for 'laser imaging, detection, and ranging" and is well known as a system for measuring distances by illuminating a target with laser light and measuring the reflection with a sensor. A second LIDAR system is proposed for an event such as a marble being obstructed from a first LIDAR by another marble. This issue can also be addressed by putting a single LIDAR on a linear actuator. The use of LIDAR enables marble positioning to be performed to an accuracy of 1mm and better.

[090] An embodiment of an automated version of the game board apparatus of the invention is illustrated in Figures 9 to 14, to which reference will now be made. In Figure 9, the apparatus is set to playing mode and in Figure 10, it is in reset mode. These modes will be explained below.

[091] Operation of the automated apparatus is managed and controlled by an Arduino processor 127, housed in the apparatus in a space below the board and beside the catchment structure 125 for the playing pieces. An example of a location for the processor is illustrated inf Figures 11 and 12. The location is not crucial to the invention, as any suitable space may be utilised. The processor may even be housed in a suitable protective structure located outside the main housing of the apparatus.

[092] The processor receives and transmits external communications by means of operatively connected Bluetooth 129 and Wi-Fi 130 modules. Through these communications modules, the processor connects with a software application (“app”) being run on a mobile device, for example a smart mobile telephone handset, associated with an authorised player. The app enables the player’s device to connect with devices that are similarly connected to remote units of the present apparatus and associated with other players, so that location data on the board positions of playing pieces are exchanged between the players, along with scores and play sequence instructions. A game can hereby be played by players at geographically remote locations. Play can be suspended, positions of playing pieces stored in computer memory, and retrieved for resumption of play later. For example, a player in a first time zone may complete a play late in the evening and have the location data stored and communicated to their adversary located in a different time zone on another continent, for the adversary to make their play at a time convenient to them.

[093] As has been mentioned previously, the locations for placement of the playing pieces are determined using programmed computer processor 127. The placement locations correspond to locations determined from location data held in the computer memory, or to location data captured from piece positions on a remotely located board, the spatial co-ordinates of which have been communicated from a remote computer processor, associated with the remote board, to the local computer processor associated with the local apparatus shown in the relevant figures.

[094] The apparatus has a base assembly 101 made up of connected components encountered previously in Figures 1 and 2, where they are labelled 20 (base) and 14, 14’ (lateral side walls) and 16 and 18 (end walls). The base assembly supports the board that bears playing surface 102 and is mounted on height-adjustable feet 120, one at each of the four corners.

[095] Mounted to the base assembly is a gantry 140 for travelling relative to and in a lengthwise direction above the playing area 102 of the board. The gantry supports components for waxing the board surface as well as a system for playing piece placement. Hingedly connected to the gantry is a placement system 150 which supports components for placement of playing pieces, such as marbles, at predetermined locations on the board. Hinged connection 121 enables the end of the system that is remote from the hinged connection to be pivotally moved to be raised when not in use or lowered when in use by operation of a linear actuator system 118.

[096] Gantry 140 has a cross member 142 supported by and spanning the gap between upright side brackets 104, 104’, each associated with the respective side walls 14, 14’. The side brackets are slidingly located on horizontal rails 112. In the drawings, for convenience, to avoid repetition and to simplify illustration, only the near side components will be labelled. These will have the letter ‘b’ after the labelling numeral. The letter ‘a’, when used, denotes a component on the far side of apparatus of the illustration, that is in relation to side wall 14’. [097] As shown in partially exploded view in Figure 13, two near side parallel slide rails 112b are provided. The slide rails pass through a linear bearing housing 114b. The housing houses a pair of linear bearings 115b which are located to slide along rails 112b and fixed to bracket 104. Between and running parallel to them is a rotatable screw- threaded rod 111b. To drive travel of gantry 140 horizontally above the board, a pair of stepper motors is used. For convenience, only the near side motor 110b, is illustrated. The motor is mounted within the base assembly to the inner surface of side wall 14 of base assembly 101.

[098] Rod 111b is coupled at one end to a stepper motor 110b so that the motor, when powered, causes rotation of the rod. The motor is in communication with computer processor 127. The direction of rotation is determined by instructions from the processor. The remote opposite end of the rod passes into and through a ball screw 113b which is fixed to bracket 104 via an adapter plate 135b and spacer 126. The spacer fits into a horizontally disposed communication slot 117 to be fixed to the sliding lateral brackets 104, 104’ along the outer side walls 14, 14’ of the assembly. When motor 110b turns screw rod 111b, depending on its direction of rotation, it draws or pushes ball screw 113b and connected bracket 104 towards or away from stepper motor 110b, so that gantry 140 accordingly travels in relation to playing surface 102. Figure 9 shows the gantry parked at the end 18 of the apparatus that is distal from the service line 26 and end wall 16. Figure 10 shows the gantry in a position partly advanced toward service line 26 and between opposite ends 16 and 18 of the apparatus.

[099] Gantry 140 has mounted to it an applicator for applying a surface treatment to playing surface 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the applicator is a waxing roller 105 that is rotatably mounted on stub axles below cross arm 142. Built into cross arm 142 is a reservoir 106 that is charged with a treatment composition, for example a suitable wax. The composition used is selected according to the materials of construction of the playing surface. Instead of a wax, the composition may be an oil, by way of non-limiting example. When the gantry is caused to travel along slots 117, the roller comes into contact with the playing surface and is caused to roll as a result of friction with the playing surface. The applicator applies treatment composition to the roller using a mechanism chosen from available systems well known in the art of surface treatment applicators and need not be elaborated on here.

[0100] Mounted to gantry 140 is a pair of linear actuators 118, 118’. These act on placement system 150, causing it to pivot on hinge 121 , as demonstrated in Figure 14 by means of directional arrow R, either lowering piece-placement chambers 107 toward playing surface 102 for placement of a marble or other playing piece, or lifting them away to allow players to engage in the next game play. It will be appreciated that in Figure 14, the gantry is in its extreme rearward position adjacent to end 18. Even at this gantry location, placement system, which is shown in fully retracted or raised mode, is able to be pivoted as arrow R indicates for placement of a marble at the extreme rearward end of the playing surface adjacent end 18.

[0101] Placement system 150 has at its core a reset frame 103, which connects to brackets 104, 104’ via hinge 121, allowing it to pivot from a plane parallel to the plane of the playing surface to a plane substantially orthogonal to the playing surface and parallel to the plane of end 18 or end 16. Attached to the frame is a clearing guard 109 for clearing playing pieces off the board. When the placement system has been pivoted forward towards the playing surface, the clearing guard is located in advance of roller 105, so as to clear any playing pieces remaining on the surface before scheduled waxing or other surface treatment. Cleared playing pieces are pushed into lateral collection gutters 136, one of which is shown in Figure 10, from where the pieces are drawn by gravity to a collection space 124 adjacent retrieval slot 116 in end 16. Of course, other retrieval slots may be included in addition to or as replacements for the slot shown in end wall 16.

[0102] The placement system has two tubular placement chambers 107 for use in placing playing pieces back on to the playing surface when gantry 140 has reached a location identified and directed by means of processor 127, such as the intermediate location shown in Figure 10. A local player will be instructed by way of the app generating an instruction on their mobile handset to load one or both of the chambers with a playing piece, depending on the situation of the game and the participation of another player. This may be directed before the gantry is moved into position or after it has reached the programmed position directed by the processor. The piece will be released when the chamber is at the programmed position, by opening of a release gate 108 (when installed) at the end of the chamber and lifting the chamber from the board, leaving the piece stationary at the correct location, from where play may then continue with the next local player playing his next piece. The gates 108 are operated by servo motors 133, shown in Figure 13. Additional chambers 107 may be installed to cater for additional players.

[0103] Lateral positioning of the tubular chamber 107 is achieved by causing sideways movement along frame 103, using a bipolar stepper motor 110a of known design operatively managed by a driver executed by a stepper motor controller 131 of the kind made available by Allegro Microsystems LLC, of Worcester, Mass. USA (see <www.allegromicro.com>). The controllers are located in proximity to central processor 127 - see Figure 11. An example of a suitable model is the Allegro A3967, which is a complete micro-stepping motor driver with built-in translator. Receiving inputs from central processor 127, the driver causes the stepper motor to position the relevant chamber 107 on the gantry at the lateral location between side walls 14,14’ at which the playing piece is to be placed and released. Meanwhile, the gantry will have been moved lengthwise along board 102 to the longitudinal location of placement, by stepper motor 110b also acting on inputs from processor 127. The relevant servo 133 is then actuated to open respective gate 108 to place the relevant playing piece. After placement, the process is reversed with the gantry returning to remote end 18 of the board where it takes up an inactive position out of the field of play.

[0104] The position of the pieces played is recorded using a system of twin LIDARS 119, mounted above the side walls 14,14’ on rotatable servos 133b. The servos are housed below the board in cavities 123. After each play in a game, the LIDARS scan the board and determine the position of each playing piece landed by the players. The LIDARS also identify playing pieces by means of colour or other indicia, for association with the relevant player. Spatial information is sent to the processor for conversion to computer numerical values and placement coordinates for the piece or pieces in play. Using the data, a processor at a remote apparatus may then generate output for the stepper motor controllers 131 that are coupled with remote placement system 103 and gantry 140 to position the chamber 107 containing (or that will contain) the relevant piece (in this case a marble) above the coordinate-defined point for the release of the relevant piece by opening of the relevant gate 108.

[0105] An inertial measurement unit (IMU module) 128 is employed for detecting the orientation of board 102, sending level-related data to processor 127. An example of a unit that may be utilised in the apparatus of the invention is the BNO08X model available from CEVA, Inc. of Mountain View, CA, USA (www.ceva-dsp.com). Should the board not be within a stipulated level tolerance, the processor signals the relevant stepper motor controllers 131, which control foot height adjustment stepper motors 110c. Each foot 120 has a motor associated with it. By means of a PID control algorithm, processor 127 signals the motor controllers, which operate the motors, to return the board to a level condition.

[0106] Each aperture 40 in playing board 102 has associated with it an all infrared optical detector 132. Each detector is placed operatively below the aperture with which it is associated. The optical capability of the sensor enables it to sense objects in close proximity to each other and to differentiate between different colour shades. Further detectors 132 are located in marble recovery gutters 136 to assist in detecting playing pieces falling into the channels and to identify them to processor 27 as being associated with an authorised player. The data collected is sent to the processor and game app to calculate the game score and determine playing sequence according to programmed rules of play.

[0107] Power for the components automating the board is supplied from an on-board power pack and recharger with a rechargeable battery set of known design. This is rechargeable from a mains supply via a wall adapter or via USB cable feed. The system may be housed in below-board cavities 122, illustrated in Figure 11. Alternative power sources may be utilised within the scope of the invention. An example of a suitable standalone battery charger for single cell Li-ion batteries is the model TP4056, supplied by the Nanjing Top Power ASIC Corp., of the Baixia District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.

[0108] In a further embodiment of the automated apparatus, a stereoscopic camera is employed for tracking all playing pieces using mapping software. In this embodiment, the use of other sensor means is redundant, for example the infrared optical detector sensors 132.

[0109] The capacity to play a physical and interactive game online, where screen- based games otherwise constitute the entire competitive field, is a revolutionary concept that could be applied in other physical games, such as billiards. Tables may be retrofitted with automatic ball setting apparatus, also enabling remote competition.

[0110] An advantage of the apparatus in its automated form is particularly pertinent in times of pandemics or other circumstances in which engagement in face-to-face games is not feasible, and in which restrictions make it difficult for players to interact with peers. The apparatus presents opportunities for participants to engage with one another in a more interactive manner and at a deeper level than an ordinary daily conversation. It can assist also in developing and maintaining relationships over long distance.

[0111] Theories about curved time and space draw on the principle of spin, which has been held responsible for the core nature of the universe. Dark and light, Yin and Yang, matter and non-matter all pay into the structure of the present game and apparatus, having the same relationship as a wave or vibration, a 1 and a 0, even a person’s fingerprints, the shape of ears and the formation of shells and flowers.

[0112] The present invention takes a simple concept, that of rolling a marble towards a target, and transforms it into an exciting and engaging social interaction that includes a game of skill, filled with learning experiences ranging from Newtonian physics to adopting a winning strategy according to game theory and the mathematics of scoring.

[0113] Throughout this specification, plural instances may implement components, operations, or structures described as a single instance. Structures and functionality presented as separate components in example configurations may be implemented as a combined structure or component. Similarly, structures and functionality presented as a single component may be implemented as separate components. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements fall within the scope of the subject matter herein.

[0114] As used herein any reference to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular element, feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[0115] Some embodiments may be described using the expression “coupled” and “connected” along with their derivatives. For example, some embodiments may be described using the term “coupled” to indicate that two or more elements are in direct physical or mechanical contact. The term “coupled,” however, may also mean that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other, but yet still co-operate or interact with each other. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0116] Upon reading this disclosure, those of skill in the art will appreciate still additional alternative structural and functional designs for game playing apparatus through the disclosed principles herein. Thus, while particular embodiments and applications have been illustrated and described, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are not limited to the precise construction and components disclosed herein. Various modifications, changes and variations, which will be apparent to those skilled in the art, may be made in the arrangement, operation and details of the method and apparatus disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope defined in the appended claims. end

Claims (33)

1. Game playing apparatus comprising: a. a playing surface in substantially a single plane, the surface having: i. a periphery defined by a peripheral edge adapted for allowing a spherical playing piece used with the apparatus reaching the edge in play to roll over the edge; and ii. a plurality of apertures within the periphery, the apertures sized to allow passage of a spherical playing piece therethrough; and b. a support structure operatively supporting the surface above a collecting structure adapted for collecting playing pieces that, in the course of players using the apparatus, fall from the board either through the apertures or over said peripheral edge.

2. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the peripheral edge is adapted to include a raised skirting extending along the peripheral edge, for allowing a rolling playing piece having sufficient kinetic energy to overcome gravity to mount said skirting and fall over said edge.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the skirting slopes up from the planar playing surface.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein only a portion of the peripheral edge is adapted to slope.

5. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the playing surface is marked to define at least two zones.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein a first zone includes the apertures.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the first zone has a waxed surface.

8. Apparatus according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein a second zone is adapted for a spherical playing piece to be launched therefrom towards the first zone.

9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein the second zone is adapted by being bounded in part by a concave portion of the periphery.

10. The apparatus of claim 8 or 9 wherein the first zone is rectangular, having a generally straight distal edge remotely located in relation to the second zone.

11. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein the apertures are arranged in the playing surface so that there is no straight, aperture-free path exceeding the diameter of a playing piece between the second zone and the distal edge of the first zone.

12. The apparatus of claim 11 wherein the apertures are arranged so that their centres are located on a generally spiral path.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the apertures are located on first and second intersecting Fibonacci spirals.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the spirals intersect at a plurality of points.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein apertures are located at said intersection points.

16. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the apertures are of two or more different sizes.

17. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the playing surface is applied to a rigid board.

18. Apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the support structure comprises a housing having first and second opposite ends, a base and, connected thereto, an upstanding support element on which the board is locatable to rest.

19. Apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the base defines a floor for the housing that comprises formations operatively adapted for biasing a spherical playing piece that falls thereon to roll to an end of the housing.

20. Apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the housing comprises outer walls connected to the base and spaced from the board, whereby a playing piece falling from the board may be gathered within the outer walls and roll, under bias, to said housing end.

21. Apparatus according to claims 19 or 20, wherein the housing defines a chamber between board and base, wherein spherical playing pieces that fall through the apertures in play are gathered and returned under bias to a collection zone at said end.

22. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a levelling mechanism operable to adjust inclination the playing surface.

23. Apparatus according to claim 22, wherein the levelling mechanism comprises height- adjustable supporting feet, each foot being independently connected to the structure by an associated screw-threaded connector, operable to adjust the level of the playing surface relative to the foot.

24. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, including at least one spherical playing piece.

25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the or each piece is a glass marble.

26. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the apertures are colour coded, each colour representing a score associated with sinking of a playing piece through the aperture concerned.

27. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, further including a storage space for one or more playing pieces.

28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the storage space comprises a tray that is withdrawable at least partially from the housing.

29. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims including a computer- managed system configured to capture data pertaining to a game being played by a player using the apparatus.

30. The apparatus of claim 29 wherein the data includes data for mapping the outcome of each play in the game.

31. The apparatus of claim 30 including a spatial location mapping system for recording the location on the playing surface of a playing piece after a play.

32. Apparatus according to any one of claims 29 to 31, configured to be operatively connectable over a distributed computer communications network with remote compatible apparatus, whereby said player may compete with a player using the remote apparatus.

33. The apparatus of claim 32, including a computer managed placement device configured for placing a playing piece assigned to represent the piece of a remotely located player on the playing surface of present apparatus at a location corresponding to a location of said playing piece on the playing surface of the remote apparatus.

Kevin P Ashby, Patent Attorney