CA3139426A1 - Magnetically operated table game - Google Patents
Magnetically operated table gameInfo
- Publication number
- CA3139426A1 CA3139426A1 CA3139426A CA3139426A CA3139426A1 CA 3139426 A1 CA3139426 A1 CA 3139426A1 CA 3139426 A CA3139426 A CA 3139426A CA 3139426 A CA3139426 A CA 3139426A CA 3139426 A1 CA3139426 A1 CA 3139426A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- gaming
- table game
- membrane
- controller
- magnet
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 47
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 32
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 claims abstract description 8
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 8
- 229910001172 neodymium magnet Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 15
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 7
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 5
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 4
- VVQNEPGJFQJSBK-UHFFFAOYSA-N Methyl methacrylate Chemical compound COC(=O)C(C)=C VVQNEPGJFQJSBK-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 229920005372 Plexiglas® Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000010137 moulding (plastic) Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000003205 muscle Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000002560 therapeutic procedure Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- A63F7/00—Indoor games using small moving playing bodies, e.g. balls, discs or blocks
- A63F7/06—Games simulating outdoor ball games, e.g. hockey or football
- A63F7/068—Games simulating outdoor ball games, e.g. hockey or football using magnetic power
Abstract
A magnetically operated table game is provided. The magnetically operated table game comprises a support frame having a gaming membrane mounted thereto. At least a gaming piece is adapted for being placed on a gaming surface of the gaming membrane. A base of the at least a gaming piece comprises means for magnetic interaction. At least a controller comprises a body adapted for being gripped by a player's hand and means for magnetic interaction disposed in a top portion of the body. The controller is adapted for being moved with respect to a controlling surface of the gaming membrane in touching contact therewith and for moving the at least a gaming piece through the magnetic interaction. The means for magnetic interaction comprise one of: the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a magnet and the at least a controller comprising a magnet; the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a non-magnetized metal and the at least a controller comprising a magnet; or, the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a magnet and the at least a controller comprising a non-magnetized metal.
Description
MAGNETICALLY OPERATED TABLE GAME
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to table games, and more particularly to magnetically operated table games that enable a player to directly manipulate gaming pieces.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Table games such as, for example, table hockey games, have been known for some time. Table games generally comprise a gaming board which is shaped to resemble a playing field such as, for example, a hockey arena, and several gaming pieces which are movable with respect to the gaming board. The gaming pieces are, for example, movable mounted to the gaming board and controlled via long lever arms which are coupled to the gaming pieces via a gear mechanism placed beneath the gaming board. A player may move the gaming pieces by pulling or pushing the respective lever arm as well as rotate the gaming piece by twisting the lever arm. Rotating the gaming piece is an important aspect in a number of games since it permits the player to manipulate the gaming piece for shooting a ball, puck or similar object.
However, movement of the gaming pieces is limited along respective slots disposed in the gaming board, substantially detracting from the realism of the game play.
Therefore, attempts have been made to provide gaming boards having magnetically controlled gaming pieces. Existing magnetic table games utilize magnetic control systems comprising magnetic gaming pieces which are manipulated by magnetic lever arms.
Unfortunately, the movement of the magnetic gaming pieces of the existing magnetic table games is difficult to accurately control and rotating the magnetic gaming pieces is unreliable or impossible.
Furthermore, the magnetic lever arms are still complex and inhibit realistic game play.
A further drawback of existing table games is that they realize only a limited number of games, mainly hockey and soccer.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 It is desirable to provide a magnetically operated table game that is simple and enables a substantially realistic game play.
It is also desirable to provide a magnetically operated table game that enables reliable rotating of the gaming pieces.
It is also desirable to provide a magnetically operated table game that enables movement of a gaming piece along a given curved track.
It is also desirable to provide a magnetically operated table game that enables movement of a gaming piece along a given curved track that resembles a race track.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide a magnetically operated table game that is simple and enables a substantially realistic game play.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a magnetically operated table game that enables reliable rotating of the gaming pieces.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a magnetically operated table game that enables movement of a gaming piece along a given curved track.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a magnetically operated table game that enables movement of a gaming piece along a given curved track that resembles a race track.
According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a magnetically operated table game. The magnetically operated table game comprises a support frame having a gaming membrane mounted thereto. At least a gaming piece is adapted for being placed on a gaming surface of the gaming membrane. A base of the at least a gaming piece comprises means for magnetic interaction. At least a controller comprises a body adapted for being gripped by a player's hand and means for magnetic interaction disposed in a top portion of the body. The Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 controller is adapted for being moved with respect to a controlling surface of the gaming membrane in touching contact therewith and for moving the at least a gaming piece through the magnetic interaction. The means for magnetic interaction comprise one of: the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a magnet and the at least a controller comprising a magnet; the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a non-magnetized metal and the at least a controller comprising a magnet; or, the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a magnet and the at least a controller comprising a non-magnetized metal.
According to the aspect of the present invention, there is provided a magnetically operated table game. The magnetically operated table game comprises a support frame having a gaming membrane mounted thereto. At least a gaming piece is adapted for being placed on a gaming surface of the gaming membrane. A base of the at least a gaming piece comprises means for magnetic interaction. At least a controller comprises a body adapted for being gripped by a player's hand and means for magnetic interaction disposed in a top portion of the body. The controller is adapted for being moved with respect to a controlling surface of the gaming membrane in touching contact therewith and for moving the at least a gaming piece through the magnetic interaction. The means for magnetic interaction comprise the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a diametrically magnetized magnet and the at least a controller comprising a diametrically magnetized magnet.
According to the aspect of the present invention, there is provided a magnetically operated table game. The magnetically operated table game comprises a support frame having a gaming membrane mounted thereto. At least a gaming piece is adapted for being placed on a gaming surface of the gaming membrane. A base of the at least a gaming piece comprises means for magnetic interaction. At least a controller comprises a body adapted for being gripped by a player's hand and means for magnetic interaction disposed in a top portion of the body. The controller is adapted for being moved with respect to a controlling surface of the gaming membrane in touching contact therewith and for moving the at least a gaming piece through the magnetic interaction. The means for magnetic interaction comprise the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a diametrically magnetized magnet and the at least a controller comprising a diametrically magnetized magnet. The at least a gaming piece comprises an arm adapted for propelling an object when the gaming piece is rotated.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 According to the aspect of the present invention, there is provided a magnetically operated table game. The magnetically operated table game comprises a support frame having a gaming membrane mounted thereto. At least a gaming piece is adapted for being placed on a gaming surface of the gaming membrane. A base of the at least a gaming piece comprises means for magnetic interaction. At least a controller comprises a body adapted for being gripped by a player's hand and means for magnetic interaction disposed in a top portion of the body. The controller is adapted for being moved with respect to a controlling surface of the gaming membrane in touching contact therewith and for moving the at least a gaming piece through the magnetic interaction. The means for magnetic interaction comprise the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a magnet and the at least a controller comprising a magnet. The gaming membrane comprises a curved track adapted for moving the gaming piece therealong.
According to the aspect of the present invention, there is provided a magnetically operated table game. The magnetically operated table game comprises a support frame having a gaming membrane mounted thereto. At least a gaming piece is adapted for being placed on a gaming surface of the gaming membrane. A base of the at least a gaming piece comprises means for magnetic interaction. At least a controller comprises a body adapted for being gripped by a player's hand and means for magnetic interaction disposed in a top portion of the body. The controller is adapted for being moved with respect to a controlling surface of the gaming membrane in touching contact therewith and for moving the at least a gaming piece through the magnetic interaction. The means for magnetic interaction comprise the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a magnet and the at least a controller comprising a magnet. The gaming membrane comprises a curved track adapted for moving the gaming piece therealong.
The advantage of the present invention is that it provides a magnetically operated table game that is simple and enables a substantially realistic game play.
A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a magnetically operated table game that enables reliable rotating of the gaming pieces.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a magnetically operated table game that enables movement of a gaming piece along a given curved track.
A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a magnetically operated table game that enables movement of a gaming piece along a given curved track that resembles a race track.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a simplified block diagram illustrating in a top perspective view a magnetically operated table game according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figures 2 to 4 are simplified block diagrams illustrating in detailed views a gaming piece and a controller of the magnetically operated table game according to the preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 5 is a simplified block diagram illustrating in a top perspective view a magnetically operated table game according to another preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figures 6 to 8 are simplified block diagrams illustrating in top perspective views details of the magnetically operated table game according to the other preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 9 is a simplified block diagram illustrating in a bottom perspective view a gaming piece of the magnetically operated table game according to the other preferred embodiment of the invention;
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 Figure 10 is a simplified block diagram illustrating in a top perspective view a magnetically operated table game according to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention; and, Figure 11 is s simplified block diagram illustrating in a side view a tilted orientation of the gaming membrane of a magnetically operated table game according to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs.
Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, the preferred methods and materials are now described.
Referring to Figures 1 to 11 a magnetically operated table game 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention is provided. The magnetically operated table game 100 comprises support frame 102 having gaming membrane 104 mounted thereto. Gaming pieces resembling, for example, players of two opposing hockey teams, are placed on gaming surface 104A of the gaming membrane 104, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2. Each gaming piece 106 comprises means for magnetic interaction disposed in base 106A thereof. For example, the hockey game illustrated in Figure 1 is played by two players manipulating the gaming pieces 106 of two opposing teams. Each player is provided with two controllers 112 enabling the player to manipulate two gaming pieces 106 at a time. Each controller 112 comprises body 112A which is, preferably, shaped to facilitate proper gripping by the players hands. Means for providing magnetic interaction are disposed in a top portion of the body 112A. The body 112A comprises a substantially flat top surface enabling the player to move the controller 112 parallel to controlling surface 104B of the gaming membrane 104 while pressing the same against it such that the top surface of the body 112A is touching contact with the controlling surface 104B of the gaming membrane 104. Through the magnetic interaction the respective gaming piece 106 follows the movement of the controller 112.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 The means for magnetic interaction may be provided in different implementations. For example, the base 106A of each gaming piece 106 comprises magnet 110 and each controller 112 comprises a respective magnet 114 with the magnets 110 and 114 being polarized such that there is magnetic attraction between the magnets 110 and 114, as illustrated in Figure 2. The magnets 110 and 114 may be axially magnetized magnets, radially magnetized magnets, or diametrically magnetized magnets having axial, radial, or diametrical magnetic field directions, respectively.
Alternatively, the base 106A of each gaming piece 106 comprises a non-magnetized metal and each controller 112 comprising a magnet, or, the base 106A of each gaming piece comprises a magnet and each controller comprises a non-magnetized metal.
Preferably, respective diametrically magnetized Neodymium magnets 110 and 114 are employed, enabling reliable lateral movement of the gaming piece 106 following the respective controller 112, as indicated by the block arrows in Figure 3, as well as, reliable rotational movement of the gaming piece 106 following rotation of the respective controller 112 about axis 116, as indicated by the block arrows in Figure 4.
Further preferably, each gaming piece 106 comprises figurine 106B, resembling, for example, a hockey player, extending from the base 106A, as well as arm 106C, resembling, for example, a hockey stick, enabling propelling an object such as, for example, a hockey puck, when the gaming piece 106 is rotated.
In an example implementation of the magnetically operated table game 100, the gaming membrane 104 is made of commercially available foamboard having a length of 90 cm, a width of 40 cm, and a thickness of 0.5 cm. The controller magnet 114 is a D48DIA
cylindrical magnet having a diameter of 0.64 cm and a length of 1.27 cm. The gaming piece magnet 110 is a D42DIA-N52 disc magnet having a diameter of 0.64 cm and a thickness of 0.32 cm. The membrane 104 material has been chosen to have uniform thickness and sufficiently low permeance, while the magnets 110 and 114 have sufficient strength to enable reliable movement but are not too strong to enable fast movement of the gaming pieces 106. The base 106A, the figurine 106B, the arm 106C, and the controller body 112A are made of, for example, a conventional plastic material using conventional plastic moulding techniques.
The magnets 110 Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 and 114 are disposed in respective cavities of the gaming piece body 106A and the controller body 112A and secured using, for example, a snug fit or an adhesive. The magnetically operated table game 100 further comprises border 108 surrounding the playing area and goals 107 made of, for example, a conventional plastic material. The puck is a plastic disc having 0.5 cm diameter and 0.25 cm thickness. Preferably, the border 108, the gaming surface 104A, the gaming pieces 106, and the goals 107 are provided such that they resemble a hockey arena in a substantially realistic fashion. The support frame 102 is made of, for example, commercially available wood profiles having a 2.5 cm X 2.5 cm square cross section and assembled using conventional fasteners such as screw fasteners and/or adhesive.
As is evident to one skilled in the art, the implementation of the magnetically operated table game 100 is not limited to the materials and dimensions described hereinabove, but may be adapted to various other dimensions and choices of materials such as, for example, plexiglass sheet material for manufacturing the gaming membrane 104, magnets 110 and 114 having different sizes and strengths, depending on design preferences.
The employment of the handheld controllers 112 in combination with diametrically magnetized magnets 110 and 114 enable provision of a simple, light weight magnetically operated table game, while also enabling a substantially realistic game play.
It is noted that the magnetically operated table game 100, while described hereinabove for implementing a hockey game, is easily adapted for implementing other team games such as, for example, football or soccer.
In another preferred embodiment of the magnetically operated table game 100, a curved track 122 is adapted for moving the gaming piece 106 therealong, as illustrated in Figure 5. For example, the track 122 is adapted to resemble a racetrack having banked curves 122A and bridges 122B. The track 122 is disposed onto gaming membrane 104 and adhered thereto with supports 124 and 126 for forming the banked curves 122A and bridges 122B, respectively, as illustrated in Figures 6 to 8. Again, the gaming piece 106, here resembling, for example, a race car, is moved along the track 122, as indicated by the block arrows in Figures 7 and 8, using a controller 112 as described hereinabove.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 In an example implementation of the other preferred embodiment of the magnetically operated table game 100, the gaming membrane 104 is made of commercially available foamboard having a length of 90 cm, a width of 40 cm, and a thickness of 0.5 cm. The track 122 is made of strips of black foam having a thickness of 0.05 cm and a width of 2 cm. The supports 124 and 126 are made of foamboard 0.5 cm to 1.0 cm high. The membrane 104 material and the track 122 material have been chosen to have sufficiently low permeance, while the magnets 110 and 114 have sufficient strength to enable reliable movement but not being too strong to enable fast movement of the gaming piece 106. The gaming piece 106 comprises base 106A, figurine 106B, wheels 106D, as illustrated in Figure 9. The base 106A, the figurine 106B, the wheels 106D are made of, for example, a conventional plastic material using conventional plastic moulding techniques. The magnet 110 is disposed in a respective cavity of the gaming piece body 106A
and secured using, for example, a snug fit or an adhesive.
As is evident to one skilled in the art, the implementation of the other preferred embodiment of the magnetically operated table game 100 is not limited to the materials and dimensions described hereinabove, but may be adapted to various other dimensions and choices of materials such as, for example, plexiglass sheet material for manufacturing the gaming membrane 104, a single unit made of conventional plastic material moulded in a conventional manner for providing the track 122 which is then placed upon the gaming membrane 104 and adhered thereto.
In yet another preferred embodiment of the magnetically operated table game 100, a curved track 128 is adapted for moving the gaming piece 106 therealong between a starting point 128A and an finish point 128B, as illustrated in Figure 10. Here, the track 128 is provided as a cut-out disposed in board 130, made of, for example, foam board, and placed onto the gaming surface 104A, thus forming walls 130A extending from the gaming surface 104A and enclosing the track 128. The track 128 comprises, for example, straight sections, curves, and sharp turns. Using a controller 112, as described hereinabove, a gaming piece 106 is moved from the start point 128A
to the finish point 128B following the track 128. The gaming membrane 104 is made of, for example, plexiglass having a thickness of 0.05 cm. The gaming piece 106 is provided having the shape of a disc. Therefore, the gaming piece 106 does not need to change its orientation to navigate the track 128 enabling use of axially magnetized magnets 110 and 114.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 The track 128 is easily adapted to provide various levels of complexity to navigate the same from the start point 128A to the finish point 128B and may be employed for rehabilitation and/or therapy of arm and shoulder muscles.
Optionally, the gaming membrane 104 is removable mounted to the support frame 102 via, for example, ends 118 of the support frame 102 accommodated in respective openings 120 disposed in the gaming membrane 104, as illustrated in Figure 5, thus enabling simple exchange of gaming membranes 104, for example, for playing different games or a same game at different levels of complexity.
Further optionally, the support structure 102 may be adapted in a conventional manner for providing the magnetically operated table game 100 as a free standing table game, a tabletop game, or for being placed on a user's lap.
Further optionally, the support structure 102 is adapted such that the gaming membrane 104 is oriented at a predetermined angle - to a horizontal, as illustrated in Figure 11.
The present invention has been described herein with regard to preferred embodiments.
However, it will be obvious to persons skilled in the art that a number of variations and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as described herein.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to table games, and more particularly to magnetically operated table games that enable a player to directly manipulate gaming pieces.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Table games such as, for example, table hockey games, have been known for some time. Table games generally comprise a gaming board which is shaped to resemble a playing field such as, for example, a hockey arena, and several gaming pieces which are movable with respect to the gaming board. The gaming pieces are, for example, movable mounted to the gaming board and controlled via long lever arms which are coupled to the gaming pieces via a gear mechanism placed beneath the gaming board. A player may move the gaming pieces by pulling or pushing the respective lever arm as well as rotate the gaming piece by twisting the lever arm. Rotating the gaming piece is an important aspect in a number of games since it permits the player to manipulate the gaming piece for shooting a ball, puck or similar object.
However, movement of the gaming pieces is limited along respective slots disposed in the gaming board, substantially detracting from the realism of the game play.
Therefore, attempts have been made to provide gaming boards having magnetically controlled gaming pieces. Existing magnetic table games utilize magnetic control systems comprising magnetic gaming pieces which are manipulated by magnetic lever arms.
Unfortunately, the movement of the magnetic gaming pieces of the existing magnetic table games is difficult to accurately control and rotating the magnetic gaming pieces is unreliable or impossible.
Furthermore, the magnetic lever arms are still complex and inhibit realistic game play.
A further drawback of existing table games is that they realize only a limited number of games, mainly hockey and soccer.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 It is desirable to provide a magnetically operated table game that is simple and enables a substantially realistic game play.
It is also desirable to provide a magnetically operated table game that enables reliable rotating of the gaming pieces.
It is also desirable to provide a magnetically operated table game that enables movement of a gaming piece along a given curved track.
It is also desirable to provide a magnetically operated table game that enables movement of a gaming piece along a given curved track that resembles a race track.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide a magnetically operated table game that is simple and enables a substantially realistic game play.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a magnetically operated table game that enables reliable rotating of the gaming pieces.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a magnetically operated table game that enables movement of a gaming piece along a given curved track.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a magnetically operated table game that enables movement of a gaming piece along a given curved track that resembles a race track.
According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a magnetically operated table game. The magnetically operated table game comprises a support frame having a gaming membrane mounted thereto. At least a gaming piece is adapted for being placed on a gaming surface of the gaming membrane. A base of the at least a gaming piece comprises means for magnetic interaction. At least a controller comprises a body adapted for being gripped by a player's hand and means for magnetic interaction disposed in a top portion of the body. The Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 controller is adapted for being moved with respect to a controlling surface of the gaming membrane in touching contact therewith and for moving the at least a gaming piece through the magnetic interaction. The means for magnetic interaction comprise one of: the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a magnet and the at least a controller comprising a magnet; the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a non-magnetized metal and the at least a controller comprising a magnet; or, the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a magnet and the at least a controller comprising a non-magnetized metal.
According to the aspect of the present invention, there is provided a magnetically operated table game. The magnetically operated table game comprises a support frame having a gaming membrane mounted thereto. At least a gaming piece is adapted for being placed on a gaming surface of the gaming membrane. A base of the at least a gaming piece comprises means for magnetic interaction. At least a controller comprises a body adapted for being gripped by a player's hand and means for magnetic interaction disposed in a top portion of the body. The controller is adapted for being moved with respect to a controlling surface of the gaming membrane in touching contact therewith and for moving the at least a gaming piece through the magnetic interaction. The means for magnetic interaction comprise the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a diametrically magnetized magnet and the at least a controller comprising a diametrically magnetized magnet.
According to the aspect of the present invention, there is provided a magnetically operated table game. The magnetically operated table game comprises a support frame having a gaming membrane mounted thereto. At least a gaming piece is adapted for being placed on a gaming surface of the gaming membrane. A base of the at least a gaming piece comprises means for magnetic interaction. At least a controller comprises a body adapted for being gripped by a player's hand and means for magnetic interaction disposed in a top portion of the body. The controller is adapted for being moved with respect to a controlling surface of the gaming membrane in touching contact therewith and for moving the at least a gaming piece through the magnetic interaction. The means for magnetic interaction comprise the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a diametrically magnetized magnet and the at least a controller comprising a diametrically magnetized magnet. The at least a gaming piece comprises an arm adapted for propelling an object when the gaming piece is rotated.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 According to the aspect of the present invention, there is provided a magnetically operated table game. The magnetically operated table game comprises a support frame having a gaming membrane mounted thereto. At least a gaming piece is adapted for being placed on a gaming surface of the gaming membrane. A base of the at least a gaming piece comprises means for magnetic interaction. At least a controller comprises a body adapted for being gripped by a player's hand and means for magnetic interaction disposed in a top portion of the body. The controller is adapted for being moved with respect to a controlling surface of the gaming membrane in touching contact therewith and for moving the at least a gaming piece through the magnetic interaction. The means for magnetic interaction comprise the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a magnet and the at least a controller comprising a magnet. The gaming membrane comprises a curved track adapted for moving the gaming piece therealong.
According to the aspect of the present invention, there is provided a magnetically operated table game. The magnetically operated table game comprises a support frame having a gaming membrane mounted thereto. At least a gaming piece is adapted for being placed on a gaming surface of the gaming membrane. A base of the at least a gaming piece comprises means for magnetic interaction. At least a controller comprises a body adapted for being gripped by a player's hand and means for magnetic interaction disposed in a top portion of the body. The controller is adapted for being moved with respect to a controlling surface of the gaming membrane in touching contact therewith and for moving the at least a gaming piece through the magnetic interaction. The means for magnetic interaction comprise the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a magnet and the at least a controller comprising a magnet. The gaming membrane comprises a curved track adapted for moving the gaming piece therealong.
The advantage of the present invention is that it provides a magnetically operated table game that is simple and enables a substantially realistic game play.
A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a magnetically operated table game that enables reliable rotating of the gaming pieces.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a magnetically operated table game that enables movement of a gaming piece along a given curved track.
A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a magnetically operated table game that enables movement of a gaming piece along a given curved track that resembles a race track.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a simplified block diagram illustrating in a top perspective view a magnetically operated table game according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figures 2 to 4 are simplified block diagrams illustrating in detailed views a gaming piece and a controller of the magnetically operated table game according to the preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 5 is a simplified block diagram illustrating in a top perspective view a magnetically operated table game according to another preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figures 6 to 8 are simplified block diagrams illustrating in top perspective views details of the magnetically operated table game according to the other preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 9 is a simplified block diagram illustrating in a bottom perspective view a gaming piece of the magnetically operated table game according to the other preferred embodiment of the invention;
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 Figure 10 is a simplified block diagram illustrating in a top perspective view a magnetically operated table game according to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention; and, Figure 11 is s simplified block diagram illustrating in a side view a tilted orientation of the gaming membrane of a magnetically operated table game according to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs.
Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, the preferred methods and materials are now described.
Referring to Figures 1 to 11 a magnetically operated table game 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention is provided. The magnetically operated table game 100 comprises support frame 102 having gaming membrane 104 mounted thereto. Gaming pieces resembling, for example, players of two opposing hockey teams, are placed on gaming surface 104A of the gaming membrane 104, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2. Each gaming piece 106 comprises means for magnetic interaction disposed in base 106A thereof. For example, the hockey game illustrated in Figure 1 is played by two players manipulating the gaming pieces 106 of two opposing teams. Each player is provided with two controllers 112 enabling the player to manipulate two gaming pieces 106 at a time. Each controller 112 comprises body 112A which is, preferably, shaped to facilitate proper gripping by the players hands. Means for providing magnetic interaction are disposed in a top portion of the body 112A. The body 112A comprises a substantially flat top surface enabling the player to move the controller 112 parallel to controlling surface 104B of the gaming membrane 104 while pressing the same against it such that the top surface of the body 112A is touching contact with the controlling surface 104B of the gaming membrane 104. Through the magnetic interaction the respective gaming piece 106 follows the movement of the controller 112.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 The means for magnetic interaction may be provided in different implementations. For example, the base 106A of each gaming piece 106 comprises magnet 110 and each controller 112 comprises a respective magnet 114 with the magnets 110 and 114 being polarized such that there is magnetic attraction between the magnets 110 and 114, as illustrated in Figure 2. The magnets 110 and 114 may be axially magnetized magnets, radially magnetized magnets, or diametrically magnetized magnets having axial, radial, or diametrical magnetic field directions, respectively.
Alternatively, the base 106A of each gaming piece 106 comprises a non-magnetized metal and each controller 112 comprising a magnet, or, the base 106A of each gaming piece comprises a magnet and each controller comprises a non-magnetized metal.
Preferably, respective diametrically magnetized Neodymium magnets 110 and 114 are employed, enabling reliable lateral movement of the gaming piece 106 following the respective controller 112, as indicated by the block arrows in Figure 3, as well as, reliable rotational movement of the gaming piece 106 following rotation of the respective controller 112 about axis 116, as indicated by the block arrows in Figure 4.
Further preferably, each gaming piece 106 comprises figurine 106B, resembling, for example, a hockey player, extending from the base 106A, as well as arm 106C, resembling, for example, a hockey stick, enabling propelling an object such as, for example, a hockey puck, when the gaming piece 106 is rotated.
In an example implementation of the magnetically operated table game 100, the gaming membrane 104 is made of commercially available foamboard having a length of 90 cm, a width of 40 cm, and a thickness of 0.5 cm. The controller magnet 114 is a D48DIA
cylindrical magnet having a diameter of 0.64 cm and a length of 1.27 cm. The gaming piece magnet 110 is a D42DIA-N52 disc magnet having a diameter of 0.64 cm and a thickness of 0.32 cm. The membrane 104 material has been chosen to have uniform thickness and sufficiently low permeance, while the magnets 110 and 114 have sufficient strength to enable reliable movement but are not too strong to enable fast movement of the gaming pieces 106. The base 106A, the figurine 106B, the arm 106C, and the controller body 112A are made of, for example, a conventional plastic material using conventional plastic moulding techniques.
The magnets 110 Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 and 114 are disposed in respective cavities of the gaming piece body 106A and the controller body 112A and secured using, for example, a snug fit or an adhesive. The magnetically operated table game 100 further comprises border 108 surrounding the playing area and goals 107 made of, for example, a conventional plastic material. The puck is a plastic disc having 0.5 cm diameter and 0.25 cm thickness. Preferably, the border 108, the gaming surface 104A, the gaming pieces 106, and the goals 107 are provided such that they resemble a hockey arena in a substantially realistic fashion. The support frame 102 is made of, for example, commercially available wood profiles having a 2.5 cm X 2.5 cm square cross section and assembled using conventional fasteners such as screw fasteners and/or adhesive.
As is evident to one skilled in the art, the implementation of the magnetically operated table game 100 is not limited to the materials and dimensions described hereinabove, but may be adapted to various other dimensions and choices of materials such as, for example, plexiglass sheet material for manufacturing the gaming membrane 104, magnets 110 and 114 having different sizes and strengths, depending on design preferences.
The employment of the handheld controllers 112 in combination with diametrically magnetized magnets 110 and 114 enable provision of a simple, light weight magnetically operated table game, while also enabling a substantially realistic game play.
It is noted that the magnetically operated table game 100, while described hereinabove for implementing a hockey game, is easily adapted for implementing other team games such as, for example, football or soccer.
In another preferred embodiment of the magnetically operated table game 100, a curved track 122 is adapted for moving the gaming piece 106 therealong, as illustrated in Figure 5. For example, the track 122 is adapted to resemble a racetrack having banked curves 122A and bridges 122B. The track 122 is disposed onto gaming membrane 104 and adhered thereto with supports 124 and 126 for forming the banked curves 122A and bridges 122B, respectively, as illustrated in Figures 6 to 8. Again, the gaming piece 106, here resembling, for example, a race car, is moved along the track 122, as indicated by the block arrows in Figures 7 and 8, using a controller 112 as described hereinabove.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 In an example implementation of the other preferred embodiment of the magnetically operated table game 100, the gaming membrane 104 is made of commercially available foamboard having a length of 90 cm, a width of 40 cm, and a thickness of 0.5 cm. The track 122 is made of strips of black foam having a thickness of 0.05 cm and a width of 2 cm. The supports 124 and 126 are made of foamboard 0.5 cm to 1.0 cm high. The membrane 104 material and the track 122 material have been chosen to have sufficiently low permeance, while the magnets 110 and 114 have sufficient strength to enable reliable movement but not being too strong to enable fast movement of the gaming piece 106. The gaming piece 106 comprises base 106A, figurine 106B, wheels 106D, as illustrated in Figure 9. The base 106A, the figurine 106B, the wheels 106D are made of, for example, a conventional plastic material using conventional plastic moulding techniques. The magnet 110 is disposed in a respective cavity of the gaming piece body 106A
and secured using, for example, a snug fit or an adhesive.
As is evident to one skilled in the art, the implementation of the other preferred embodiment of the magnetically operated table game 100 is not limited to the materials and dimensions described hereinabove, but may be adapted to various other dimensions and choices of materials such as, for example, plexiglass sheet material for manufacturing the gaming membrane 104, a single unit made of conventional plastic material moulded in a conventional manner for providing the track 122 which is then placed upon the gaming membrane 104 and adhered thereto.
In yet another preferred embodiment of the magnetically operated table game 100, a curved track 128 is adapted for moving the gaming piece 106 therealong between a starting point 128A and an finish point 128B, as illustrated in Figure 10. Here, the track 128 is provided as a cut-out disposed in board 130, made of, for example, foam board, and placed onto the gaming surface 104A, thus forming walls 130A extending from the gaming surface 104A and enclosing the track 128. The track 128 comprises, for example, straight sections, curves, and sharp turns. Using a controller 112, as described hereinabove, a gaming piece 106 is moved from the start point 128A
to the finish point 128B following the track 128. The gaming membrane 104 is made of, for example, plexiglass having a thickness of 0.05 cm. The gaming piece 106 is provided having the shape of a disc. Therefore, the gaming piece 106 does not need to change its orientation to navigate the track 128 enabling use of axially magnetized magnets 110 and 114.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18 The track 128 is easily adapted to provide various levels of complexity to navigate the same from the start point 128A to the finish point 128B and may be employed for rehabilitation and/or therapy of arm and shoulder muscles.
Optionally, the gaming membrane 104 is removable mounted to the support frame 102 via, for example, ends 118 of the support frame 102 accommodated in respective openings 120 disposed in the gaming membrane 104, as illustrated in Figure 5, thus enabling simple exchange of gaming membranes 104, for example, for playing different games or a same game at different levels of complexity.
Further optionally, the support structure 102 may be adapted in a conventional manner for providing the magnetically operated table game 100 as a free standing table game, a tabletop game, or for being placed on a user's lap.
Further optionally, the support structure 102 is adapted such that the gaming membrane 104 is oriented at a predetermined angle - to a horizontal, as illustrated in Figure 11.
The present invention has been described herein with regard to preferred embodiments.
However, it will be obvious to persons skilled in the art that a number of variations and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as described herein.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-11-18
Claims (15)
OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. A magnetically operated table game comprising:
a support frame;
a gaming membrane mounted to the support frame;
at least a gaming piece adapted for being placed on a gaming surface of the gaming membrane, a base of the at least a gaming piece comprising means for magnetic interaction;
and, at least a controller, the at least a controller comprising a body adapted for being gripped by a player's hand and means for magnetic interaction disposed in a top portion of the body, wherein the controller is adapted for being moved with respect to a controlling surface of the gaming membrane in touching contact therewith, and wherein the controller is adapted for moving the at least a gaming piece through the magnetic interaction; and, wherein the means for magnetic interaction comprise one of:
the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a magnet and the at least a controller comprising a magnet;
the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a non-magnetized metal and the at least a controller comprising a magnet; or, the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a magnet and the at least a controller comprising a non-magnetized metal.
a support frame;
a gaming membrane mounted to the support frame;
at least a gaming piece adapted for being placed on a gaming surface of the gaming membrane, a base of the at least a gaming piece comprising means for magnetic interaction;
and, at least a controller, the at least a controller comprising a body adapted for being gripped by a player's hand and means for magnetic interaction disposed in a top portion of the body, wherein the controller is adapted for being moved with respect to a controlling surface of the gaming membrane in touching contact therewith, and wherein the controller is adapted for moving the at least a gaming piece through the magnetic interaction; and, wherein the means for magnetic interaction comprise one of:
the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a magnet and the at least a controller comprising a magnet;
the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a non-magnetized metal and the at least a controller comprising a magnet; or, the base of the at least a gaming piece comprising a magnet and the at least a controller comprising a non-magnetized metal.
2. The table game according to claim 1 wherein the base of the at least a gaming piece comprises one of an axially magnetized magnet and a diametrically magnetized magnet.
3. The table game according to claim 2 wherein the at least a controller comprises one of an axially magnetized magnet, a radially magnetized magnet, and a diametrically magnetized magnet.
4. The table game according to claim 3 wherein the axially magnetized magnet, the radially magnetized magnet, and the diametrically magnetized magnet is a Neodymium magnet.
5. The table game according to claim 1 wherein the gaming membrane is substantially flat.
6. The table game according to claim 1 wherein the gaming membrane comprises a curved track adapted for moving the gaming piece therealong.
7. The table game according to claim 6 wherein the track comprises sharp turns.
8. The table game according to claim 6 wherein the track comprises at least a banked curve.
9. The table game according to claim 6 wherein the track comprises at least a bridge.
10. The table game according to claim 6 wherein the gaming membrane is substantially flat having the track disposed thereon.
11. The table game according to claim 6 wherein the gaming membrane is substantially flat having walls bordering the track disposed thereon.
12. The table game according to claim 1 wherein the gaming membrane is removable mounted to the support frame.
13. The table game according to claim 1 wherein the gaming membrane is oriented at a predetermined angle to a horizontal.
14. The table game according to claim 1 wherein the at least a gaming piece comprises a figurine extending from the base.
15. The table game according to claim 1 wherein the at least a gaming piece comprises an arm adapted for propelling an object when the gaming piece is rotated.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA3139426A CA3139426A1 (en) | 2021-11-18 | 2021-11-18 | Magnetically operated table game |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA3139426A CA3139426A1 (en) | 2021-11-18 | 2021-11-18 | Magnetically operated table game |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA3139426A1 true CA3139426A1 (en) | 2023-05-18 |
Family
ID=86337401
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA3139426A Pending CA3139426A1 (en) | 2021-11-18 | 2021-11-18 | Magnetically operated table game |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA3139426A1 (en) |
-
2021
- 2021-11-18 CA CA3139426A patent/CA3139426A1/en active Pending
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