EP2332108A2

EP2332108A2 - Apparatus and method for spectator amusement and direct marketing of goods and/or services

Info

Publication number: EP2332108A2
Application number: EP09805296A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Attila Balazs DRAVICZKI; Gyula Zsolt Bertok
Original assignee: GHD Inc
Current assignee: GHD Inc
Priority date: 2008-08-08
Filing date: 2009-08-09
Publication date: 2011-06-15
Also published as: WO2010016945A3; WO2010016945A2; DE102009036168B4; US20110133403A1; EP2332108A4; DE102009036168A1

Abstract

An apparatus for spectator amusement and direct marketing of goods and/or services. The apparatus comprises a support; a plurality of first generally cylinder-like structures of a first size, each structure being open at one end and closed at another and opposite end, being arranged side-by-side in a selected series along the support, and in a first generally uniform plane relative to one another; and a plurality of second generally cylinder-like structures of a second size, each structure being open at one end and closed at another and opposite end, and being arranged side-by-side in a selected series, each structure bridging and balancing between adjacent cooperating edges of one of the first structures at the open end thereof, the second structures being in a second generally uniform plane relative to one another, and the first and second planes being in relatively parallel relation to one another. At least one of the first structures contains a predetermined volume of a first selected liquid composition, and at least one of the second structures contains a predetermined volume of a second selected liquid composition. Upon application of a selected force in proximity to an inbound portion of the upper half of the second structure's closed end, the first of the second structures slides along adjacent cooperating edges of the first structure until it no longer bridges and balances between such edges, and drops into the second of the adjacent first structures, the second structure being contained by the first structure and being immersed in the first liquid composition housed therein. Upon sliding and dropping of the second structure into the first structure, an outbound edge of the second structure's closed end strikes an inbound portion of the upper half of the adjacent second structure bridging and balancing between adjacent cooperating edges of the second of the first structures at the open end thereof. The magnitude of the force applied when the second structure closed end strikes the inbound portion of the upper half of the adjacent second structure is sufficient to cause the second of the second structures to slide along adjacent cooperating edges of the successive first structures until it no longer bridges and balances between such edges, and drops into the third of the adjacent first structures. The second of the second structures is contained by the third of the first structures and is immersed in the first liquid composition housed therein, such that the successive sliding, striking and falling movements create a spectacle for a user's amusement and fun, and encourages the user to purchase more of the beverage contained therein.

Description

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SPECTATOR AMUSEMENT AND DIRECT MARKETING OF GOODS AND/OR SERVICES

By: Attila B. Draviczki and Gyula Z.Bertok This Application is based on U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 61/188,459, filed August 8, 2008, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to entertainment and, more particularly, to games and other devices for spectator amusement.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Games span perhaps the broadest range of technologies, ranging from those of the strictly mechanical type that are performed manually, e.g., games played using a deck of cards, to high-tech games, for example, computer and virtual reality type games. While the objectives of games range from averting boredom to intellectual development, their common thread has been to produce a positive emotional response in the participant(s) and/or the spectator(s).

Complex motion games, particularly those that involve practical demonstrations of the laws of physics, have been found especially successful in their capacity to entertain and intrigue the mind of the observer. Such games include, but are not limited to, popular, albeit classic, games of the strictly mechanical type such as MOUSE TRAP, DOMINOS and NEWTON'S CRADLE. Other games of this sort are electronically based, e.g., conventional video games, and a combination of the two, namely, electro-mechanical arrangements as with PEN BALL machines and the like. Still other games involve continuous controlled motion such as complex machines built using ERECTOR and K' NEX sets. These sets have been used to create spectacles and/or games for amusement, such as miniature ferris wheels, roller coasters, and other continuous, ball drop, chain reaction type devices. Overall, utilization of complex motion games has addressed a broad spectrum of functions, ranging from mere entertainment, amusement, mind development and/or education to marketing of goods and services.

While traditional complex motion arrangements have been found relatively useful for entertainment, amusement and mental development of spectators and participants alike, the necessity of custom designed and fit parts or pieces, rather than conventional every-day items, has often made them less economical and desirable for widespread use.

In addition, although use and demonstration of such games can encourage purchase and/or consumption of goods, their ability to influence the consumer to make purchases has been mixed. More specifically, while some entertainment devices have been found somewhat effective, in this regard, though for limited periods of product life, others have been found unsuitable for direct marketing of goods and services simply because they fail to excite or inspire the consumer. Collectively, however, none have been found to have the versatility or appeal to consistently achieve the goal of spectator amusement while providing direct marketing of goods and services.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for spectator amusement. The apparatus comprises (i) a support; (ii) a plurality of first generally cylinder-like structures of a first size, each structure being open at one end and closed at another and opposite end, being arranged side-by-side in a selected series along the support, and in a first generally uniform plane relative to one another; and (iii) a plurality of second generally cylinder-like structures of a second size, each structure being open at one end and closed at another and opposite end, and being arranged side-by-side in a selected series, each structure bridging and balancing between adjacent cooperating edges of one of the first structures at the open end thereof, the second structures being in a second generally uniform plane relative to one another, and the first and second planes being in relatively parallel relation to one another. At least one of the first structures contains a predetermined volume of a first selected liquid composition, and at least one of the second structures contains a predetermined volume of a second selected liquid composition, such that, upon application of a selected force in proximity to an inbound portion of the upper half of the second structure's closed end, the first of the second structures slides along adjacent cooperating edges of the first structure until it no longer bridges and balances between such edges, and drops into the second of the adjacent first structures, the second structure being contained by the first structure and being immersed in the first liquid composition housed therein. Upon sliding and dropping of the second structure into the first structure, an outbound edge of the second structure's closed end strikes an inbound portion of the upper half of an adjacent second structure bridging and balancing between adjacent cooperating edges of the second of the first structures at the open end thereof. The magnitude of the force applied when the second structure closed end strikes the inbound portion of the upper half of the adjacent second structure is sufficient to cause the second of the second structures to slide along adjacent cooperating edges of the successive first structures until it no longer bridges and balances between such edges, and drops into the third of the adjacent first structures, the second of the second structures being contained by the third of the first structures and being immersed in the first liquid composition housed therein, such that the successive sliding, striking and falling movements create a spectacle for a user's amusement and fun.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method of amusing spectators is provided. Initially, a game support is provided with a plurality of first generally cylinder-like structures of a first size, each structure being open at one end and closed at another and opposite end. The first structures are arranged side-by-side in a selected series along the support, and in a first generally uniform plane relative to one another. Next, a plurality of second generally cylinder-like structures of a second size are provided, each structure being open at one end and closed at another and opposite end. The second structures are arranged side-by-side in a selected series such that each structure bridges, and balances between, adjacent cooperating edges of one of the first structures at the open end thereof. The second structures are in a second generally uniform plane relative to one another, the first and second planes being in relatively parallel relation to one another. At least one of the first structures is then filled with a predetermined volume of a first selected liquid composition, and at least one of the second structures with a predetermined volume of a second selected liquid composition. A selected force is applied in proximity to an inbound portion of the upper half of the second structure's closed end, e.g., toward an upper edge thereof, so as to cause the first of the second structures to slide along adjacent cooperating edges of the first structure until it no longer bridges and balances between such edges, and drops into the second of the adjacent first structures, the second structure being contained by the first structure and being immersed in the first liquid composition housed therein. Upon sliding and dropping of the second structure into the first structure, an outbound edge of the second structure's closed end strikes an inbound portion of the upper half of an adjacent second structure bridging and balancing between adjacent cooperating edges of the second of the first structures at the open end thereof. The magnitude of the force applied when the second structure closed end strikes the inbound portion of the upper half of the adjacent second structure is sufficient to cause the second of the second structures to slide along adjacent cooperating edges of the successive first structures until it no longer bridges and balances between such edges, and drops into the third of the adjacent first structures, the second of the second structures being contained by the third of the first structures and being immersed in the first liquid composition housed therein. The successive sliding, striking and falling movements create a spectacle for a user's amusement and fun. It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus and method, the function of which not only provides for entertainment, amusement and/or educational development of the user and/or spectator, but also achieves direct marketing of goods and/or services used.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and method for spectator amusement that is fast and economical to construct and use.

A further object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that not only provides a game-like experience for the user and/or spectator but also serves to market goods and services to both.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and method for spectator amusement that encourages consumption of consumer beverages and the like.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and method for amusement children so as to encourage, for instance, their consumption of liquid cold or flu medications, liquid vitamins and other often ill-tasking pharmaceutical compositions in prescribed doses that may be necessary for their health, well-being and/or treatment of disease or ailments.

The present invention will now be further described by reference to the following drawings which are not intended to limit the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION QF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of an apparatus for spectator amusement and direct marketing in a starting position, according to one aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 2 shows a first step of operation of the apparatus set forth in FIG. 1, upon application of a selected force to a first of the second structures and its striking a second of the second structures;

FIG. 3 shows a second step of operation of the apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1, namely, the corresponding next sequential step of operation according to the apparatus of FIG. 2, the first of the second structures being immersed in a second first structure and the second of the second structures striking a third of the second structures;

FIG. 4 shows a third step of operation of the apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1, and the corresponding next sequential step of operation according to the apparatus of FIG. 3, the first and second of the second structures being immersed in the second and third first structures, respectively, and the third of the second structures striking a fourth of the second structures;

FIG. 5 shows a fourth step of operation of the apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1, and the corresponding further sequential step of operation according to the apparatus of FIG. 4, the first, second and third of the second structures being immersed in the second, third and fourth first structures, respectively, and the fourth of the second structures striking a fifth of the second structures;

FIG. 6 shows a fifth step of operation of the apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 , and the corresponding next sequential step of operation according to the apparatus of FIG. 5, the first, second, third and fourth of the second structures being immersed in the second, third, fourth and fifth first structures, respectively, and the fifth of the second structures tipping into a sixth of the first structures but not striking a subsequent second structure;

FIG. 7 shows a sixth step of operation of the apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 , and the corresponding final sequential step of operation according to the apparatus of FIG. 6, the first, second, third, fourth and fifth of the second structures being immersed in the second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth first structures, respectively, according to a selected number of first and second structures used in the present embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing operation of the present invention as an action sequence photo according to steps set forth generally in FIGS. 2-7 above;

FIG. 9 is a side view of an apparatus for spectator amusement and direct marketing, according to a further aspect of the present invention; and

FIG. 10 is a side view of an apparatus for spectator amusement and direct marketing, in accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention. The same numerals are used throughout the figure drawings to designate similar elements. Still other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings and more particularly to FIGS. 1 -10, there is shown generally a specific, illustrative apparatus 1 and method for spectator amusement, according to various aspects of the present invention. In one embodiment, shown generally in FIG. 1 , the apparatus comprises a support 10, a plurality of first generally cylinder-like structures 20 of a first size, and a plurality of second generally cylinder-like structures 30 of a second size. Each first and second structure is preferably open at one respective end 21, 31 and closed at another and opposite end 22, 32, respectively.

The plurality of first structures is preferably arranged side-by-side in a selected series, e.g., linearly or curvilinearly, along the support, and in a first generally uniform plane 23 relative to one another, and the plurality of second structures is desirably arranged also side- by-side in a selected series, e.g., in a linear or curvilinear fashion correspondingly to the arrangement of the plurality of first structures, each second structure bridging and balancing between adjacent cooperating edges 24, 25 of one of the first structures at, or in proximity to, open end 21 thereof. The second structures are desirably in a second generally uniform plane 33 relative to one another, the first and second planes being in relatively parallel relation. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, horizontal, inclining, declining or other plane orientations may be utilized, given the purpose for which the present invention is intended.

At least one of the first structures contains a predetermined volume of a first selected liquid composition 40, e.g., an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage, an energy drink or liquid pharmaceutical composition, and at least one of the second structures contains a predetermined volume of a second selected liquid composition 41, e.g., also an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage, energy drink or liquid pharmaceutical composition.

According to one aspect of the present invention, suitable alcoholic beverages include, but are not limited to, conventional drinks such as beer, wine, whiskey, vodka and liquors such as ZWACK, and acceptable non-alcoholic beverages include colas such as PEPSI or COCA COLA, orange soda, cream soda, root beer, club soda, tonic soda, and the like. Energy drinks, within the scope and spirit of the present invention, include, but are not limited to, RED BULL, GATORADE, POWERAID and the like. Suitable liquid pharmaceuticals similarly include, but are not limited to, conventional flavored or unflavored cough medicine, analgesics, liquid vitamins and minerals, and the like. As those skilled in the art will also appreciate, the present invention is not intended to be used for combining or mixing liquid compositions that could pose a health risk or safety hazard to the consumer, e.g., mixing of selected liquid pharmaceutical compositions with alcoholic beverages or certain energy drinks. Upon application of a selected force 50, as best seen in FIG. 2, in proximity to an inbound portion 34 of upper half 35 of the second structure's closed end 32, the first 36 of the second structures slides along adjacent cooperating edges 24, 25 of the first structure until it no longer bridges and balances between such edges, and drops into a second 27 of the adjacent first structures, the second structure being contained by the first structure and being immersed in the first liquid composition housed therein. According to one arrangement, the second structure "tips" over and into the adjacent successive first structure. Upon sliding and dropping of the second structure into the first structure, an outbound edge 37 of the second structure's closed end strikes an inbound portion 38 of upper half 39 of the adjacent second structure bridging and balancing between adjacent cooperating edges 24, 25 of second 27 of the first structures at the open end thereof. It is noted that immersion of the second structure in the liquid of the other may be in whole or in part, depending upon the volume of liquid in both structures, the velocity of impact and, in turn, volume of spillage, of the second structure against the liquid in the first structure.

The magnitude of the force applied when second structure closed end 32 strikes the inbound portion 34 of the upper half of an adjacent second structure 42 is sufficient to cause the second of the second structures to slide along adjacent cooperating edges 24, 25 of the successive first structures until it no longer bridges and balances between such edges, and drops into a third 28 of the adjacent first structures, the second 42 of the second structures being contained by the third of the first structures and being immersed in first liquid composition 40 housed therein, such that the successive sliding, striking and falling movements create a spectacle for a user's amusement and fun.

Desirably, force 40 applied to the first of the second structures is suitable for commencing operation, according to the present invention, using, for instance, a conventional hammer mechanism, trip switch, lever, hand assisted, or the like, mounted to one end of support 10 in proximity to first 36 of the second structures.

Upon completion of the foregoing sliding, striking and falling sequence of operation, a user and/or spectator(s) grasp one of the second structures, now housing both the first structure its liquid contents, raises the structure to his/her mouth and consumes the liquid contents of both the first and second structure, simultaneously.

Although the first and second structures, according to the present invention, have been shown and described as having particular larger and smaller relative sizes, respectively, and a generally cylinder-like shape, other shapes, sizes and relative sizes of the respective structures may be utilized, giving consideration to the purpose for which the present invention is intended. For instance, the first structure, the second structure or both may take the form of a hexagon, a rounded square or the like, depending on the performance and visual effect desired, within the spirit and scope of the present invention. In addition, the second structure may be relatively larger in proportion to the first, and/or the first structure relatively smaller as compared to the second, in accordance with the present invention.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the first and second cylinder-like structures preferably have side surfaces 43, 44 sloping generally upwardly so as to minimize splashing of the liquid contents, and are constructed of a selected transparent or translucent, shatterproof material such as conventional protective glass or a selected polymeric material. In accordance with one arrangement, the first structure is a traditionally sized and shaped drinking glass and the second structure is a conventional "shot" glass, medicine cup, or the like. Alternatively or concurrently, the first and second structures are solid in color and/or have reflective outer surfaces, e.g., foil like, such as for added effect and appeal.

Generally speaking, the volume of liquid contents of first and second structures 20, 30 may vary considerably, depending upon the use and spectacle desired. It is preferred that one or more of the first structures contain first selected liquid composition 40 in the amount of a first predetermined volume 45, and that one or more of the second structures contain second selected liquid composition 41 in the amount of a second predetermined volume 46. In one embodiment, the first and second predetermined volumes are such that the first and second structures are partially filled with the first and second liquid composition, respectively. Alternatively, the first and second predetermined volumes are such that the first and second structures are substantially filled with the first and second liquid compositions, respectively. Further in the alternative, the first and second predetermined volumes are such that the first and second structures are either partially or substantially filled with the first and second liquid compositions, respectively, or in any combination or mixture of the two. According to yet another embodiment, the first and second selected liquid compositions are the same, or substantially the same. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a relative balance may be achieved as to the respective predetermined volumes between the desire for spectacle and, in turn, splashing, on the one hand, and practicality such as concern with waste and the effect of weight, particularly of the second structures in a filled or substantially filled capacity, on the other hand.

Turning now to another aspect of the present invention, as illustrated in FIG. 9, there is provided an apparatus for spectator amusement and direct marketing of goods and/or services that includes a selected, high intensity light source 60, for instance, a conventional LED or Laser 61, mounted to or suspended over the support such as by an adjustable arm 62, the light source being arranged so as to direct the light emitted along, and preferably through, the series of first and second structures when filled, partially and/or substantially, with the first and second liquid compositions, respectively.

Also alternatively or concurrently, the first liquid composition selected has a first color, e.g., yellow, and the second liquid composition selected has a second color, e.g., red, the first and second colors being different from but complementary with one another. In this case, upon completion of the sliding, striking and falling sequence of operation, and engagement of the first and second liquid compositions with one another, a resultant liquid composition 47, through partial or complete mixing of the contents of the first and second structures, has a third color, e.g., amber or orange, such that the concurrent, successive sliding, striking and falling movements of the first and second structures creates and further enhances the spectacle of the apparatus for a user's amusement and fun.

Yet a further aspect of the present invention concerns the use of a first liquid composition that is selected so as to be chemically reactive with the second liquid composition selected to produce a desired effect. In one arrangement, a selected quantity of vinegar is combined with the first liquid composition, and a relatively small quantity of baking powder is mixed with the second liquid composition such that, upon successive sliding, striking and falling movements of the first and second structures, there is at least partial mixing of the first and second liquid compositions and, hence, a "fizzing" effect, in the resultant mixture. Further in the alternative, or concurrently therewith, the chemical reaction and reagents chosen may be such as to cause clear reagents in the first and second structures to turn a particular color upon contact, such as purple or blue, similarly enhancing the user's amusement and fun.

In operation according to various aspects of the present invention, there is also provided a method for amusing spectators and direct marketing of goods and/or services. Initially, game support 10, e.g., a relatively flat surface 11 adapted for holding a plurality of horizontally disposed cylinder-like structures, is provided, and a plurality of first generally cylinder-like structures 20 of a first selected size are arranged side-by-side in a selected series along the support, and in a first generally uniform plane relative to one another, each structure being open at one end and closed at another and opposite end. Alternatively or concurrently, as set forth in FIG. 10, the support takes the form of a suitably shaped rack 12 (or truck), e.g., a simple conventional glass or bottle holding rack, having a plurality of slots 13 sized and shaped for receiving the first structures in a predetermined arrangement. Optionally, the rack has a mounting member 63 adjacent one end 14 for holding and directing high-intensity light source 60, preferably in an adjustable fashion. While the support is shown and described herein with the first and second structures arranged generally linearly, the support may be configured and the structures may be so arranged that the series of structures is formed into other shapes, e.g., a curve or S-shape, within the spirit of the present invention.

Next, a plurality of second generally cylinder-like structures 30 of a second selected size are provided, each structure being open at one end and closed at another and opposite end. The second structures are arranged side-by-side in a selected series such that each structure bridges, and balances between, adjacent cooperating edges 24, 25 of one of the first structures at the open end thereof. The second structures are in a second generally uniform plane relative to one another, the first and second planes being in relatively parallel relation to one another.

At least one of the first structures is then filled with a predetermined volume of first selected liquid composition 40, and at least one of the second structures with a predetermined volume of second selected liquid composition 41. A selected force 50 is then applied in proximity to inbound portion 38 of the upper half of the second structure's closed end so as to cause the first of the second structures to slide along the adjacent cooperating edges of the first structure until it no longer bridges and balances between such edges, and drops into the second of the adjacent first structures, the second structure being contained by the first structure and being immersed in the first liquid composition housed therein.

Upon sliding and dropping of the second structure into the first structure, outbound edge 37 of the second structure's closed end strikes inbound portion 38 of the upper half of the adjacent second structure bridging and balancing between adjacent cooperating edges of the second of the first structures at the open end thereof. The magnitude of the force applied when the second structure closed end strikes the inbound portion of the upper half of the adjacent second structure is sufficient to cause the second of the second structures to slide along adjacent cooperating edges of the successive first structures until it no longer bridges and balances between such edges, and drops into the third of the adjacent first structures, the second of the second structures being contained by the third of the first structures and being immersed in the first liquid composition housed therein. The successive sliding, striking and falling movements create a spectacle for a user's amusement and fun. It is noted that the motion as the second structure "tips" over and into the adjacent successive first structure may be such that the former drops, falls or tumbles, depending upon the size, shape, arrangement and general physical characteristics of the structures.

Referring now to FIGS. 2-8 generally, there is shown a specific, illustrative operation of the present invention using a selected number of first structures, i.e., six drinking glasses, and a corresponding selected number of second structures, i.e., five shot glasses, and their associated sliding, striking and falling (or tipping) actions. Upon a first step of operation, as illustrated generally in FIG. 2, the apparatus set forth in FIG. 1 is shown upon application of a selected force to a first 36 of the second structures and its striking a second 42 of the second structures. During a second step of operation of the apparatus in FIG. 1, namely, the corresponding next sequential step of operation according to the apparatus of FIG. 2, the first of the second structures is immersed in a second first structure 27 and the second of the second structures strikes a third 48 of the second structures. This step is best seen in FIG. 3.

Subsequently, upon a third step of operation according to FIG. 4, of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 , and the corresponding next sequential step of operation according to the apparatus of FIG. 3, the first and second of the second structures are immersed in second 27 and third 28 first structures, respectively, the third of the second structures striking a fourth 49 of the second structures. FIG. 5 shows a fourth step of operation of the apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1, and the corresponding further sequential step of operation according to the apparatus of FIG. 4. hi particular, the first, second and third of the second structures are immersed in second 27, third 28 and fourth 29 first structures, respectively, and the fourth of the second structures strikes a fifth 51 of the second structures.

Thereafter, as set forth in FIG. 6, a fifth step of operation of the apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 , and the corresponding next sequential step of operation according to the apparatus of FIG. 5, occurs. The first, second, third and fourth of the second structures are immersed in second 27, third 28, fourth 29 and fifth 52 first structures, respectively, and the fifth of the second structures tips into a sixth 53 of the first structures but does not strike a subsequent second structure as none is provided in this embodiment.

Last, a sixth step of the operation, corresponding to a final sequential step of operation according to the apparatus of FIG. 6, is provided. As shown in FIG. 7, the first, second, third, fourth and fifth of the second structures are immersed in the second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth first structures, respectively, according to a selected number of first and second structures used in the present embodiment of the invention. The foregoing operation as an action sequence photograph, according to FIGS. 2-7 set forth above, is best seen in FIG. 8. Overall, the apparatus and method of the present invention not only provides for the entertainment, amusement and/or educational development to the user and/or spectator, but also provides direct marketing of goods and/or services used. More specifically, by providing the arrangement according to the present invention, one user may challenge another user, and so forth, to a contest. One objective of the contest or game is to see who is willing the pay the most money to purchase and fill the most first and second structures, thereby create the longest chain action sequence, and, in turn, impress and amuse the most spectators. In this manner, the apparatus and method, according to the present invention, serves as a direct marketing arrangement for the sale of goods, in general, and beverages, in particular. Moreover, the present invention is advantageous in causing or facilitating spectator amusement and increased sale of goods and/or services are achieved not only through use of conventional structures that make the apparatus easy and economical to construct and use, but also without the necessity for investment in marketing or advertising by the user or business establishment. Hence, the present invention provides a game-like experience for the user and/or spectator while marketing goods and services to both, such as encouraging consumption of consumer beverages and increasing the frequency of table waiting services required pursuant to increased beverage purchases.

Various modifications and alterations to the present invention may be appreciated based on a review of this disclosure. These changes and additions are intended to be within the scope and spirit of this invention as defined by the following claims

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An apparatus for spectator amusement and direct marketing of goods and/or services, which comprises: a support; a plurality of first generally cylinder-like structures of a first size, each structure being open at one end and closed at another and opposite end, being arranged side-by-side in a selected series along the support, and in a first generally uniform plane relative to one another; a plurality of second generally cylinder-like structures of a second size, each structure being open at one end and closed at another and opposite end, and being arranged side-by- side in a selected series, each structure bridging and balancing between adjacent cooperating edges of one of the first structures at the open end thereof, the second structures being in a second generally uniform plane relative to one another, and the first and second planes being in relatively parallel relation to one another; at least one of the first structures containing a predetermined volume of a first selected liquid composition, and at least one of the second structures containing a predetermined volume of a second selected liquid composition, such that, upon application of a selected force in proximity to an inbound portion of the upper half of the second structure's closed end, the first of the second structures slides along adjacent cooperating edges of the first structure until it no longer bridges and balances between such edges, and drops into the second of the adjacent first structures, the second structure being contained by the first structure and being immersed in the first liquid composition housed therein; whereupon sliding and dropping of the second structure into the first structure, an outbound edge of the second structure's closed end strikes an inbound portion of the upper half of the adjacent second structure bridging and balancing between adjacent cooperating edges of the second of the first structures at the open end thereof, the magnitude of the force applied when the second structure closed end strikes the inbound portion of the upper half of the adjacent second structure being sufficient to cause the second of the second structures to slide along adjacent cooperating edges of the successive first structures until it no longer bridges and balances between such edges, and drops into the third of the adjacent first structures, the second of the second structures being contained by the third of the first structures and being immersed in the first liquid composition housed therein, such that the successive sliding, striking and falling movements create a spectacle for a user's amusement and fun.

2. The apparatus set forth in Claim 1, wherein each of the first cylinder-like structures is transparent or translucent and has side surfaces sloping generally upwardly so as to minimize splashing.

3. The apparatus set forth in Claim 1, wherein each of the second cylinder-like structures is transparent or translucent and has side surfaces sloping generally upwardly so as to minimize splashing.

4. The apparatus set forth in Claim 1, wherein the first liquid composition is a selected alcoholic beverage, energy drink or liquid pharmaceutical composition.

5. The apparatus set forth in Claim 1, wherein the second liquid composition is a selected alcoholic beverage, energy drink or liquid pharmaceutical composition.

6. The apparatus set forth in Claim 1, wherein each of the first structures contains the first selected liquid composition in the amount of the predetermined volume.

7. The apparatus set forth in Claim 1, wherein each of the second structures contains a second selected liquid composition in the amount of the predetermined volume.

8. The apparatus set forth in Claim 1, wherein each of the first cylinder-like structures is a drinking glass.

9. The apparatus set forth in Claim 1, further comprising a selected, high intensity light source mounted to the support, the light source being arranged so as to direct the light emitted along the series of first and second structures.

10. The apparatus set forth in Claim 1, wherein each of the second cylinder-like structures is a shot glass or medicine cup.

11. The apparatus set forth in Claim 1, wherein the first liquid composition selected has a first color and the second liquid composition selected has a second color, the first and second colors being different from but complementary with one another.

12. The apparatus set forth in Claim 1, wherein the first liquid composition selected is chemically reactive with the second liquid composition selected so as to produce a desired effect.

13. The apparatus set forth in Claim 1, wherein the first and second structures are constructed of a shatterproof material, e.g., a conventional shatterproof glass or polymeric material.

14. A method of amusing spectators and for direct marketing of goods and/or services, which comprises the steps of: i. providing a game support; ii. providing a plurality of first generally cylinder-like structures of a first size, each structure being open at one end and closed at another and opposite end; iii. arranging the first structures side-by-side in a selected series along the support, and in a first generally uniform plane relative to one another; iv. providing a plurality of second generally cylinder-like structures of a second size, each structure being open at one end and closed at another and opposite end; v. arranging the second structures side-by-side in a selected series such that each structure bridges, and balances between, adjacent cooperating edges of one of the first structures at the open end thereof, the second structures being in a second generally uniform plane relative to one another, and the first and second planes being in relatively parallel relation to one another; vi. filling at least one of the first structures with a predetermined volume of a first selected liquid composition, and at least one of the second structures with a predetermined volume of a second selected liquid composition; vii. applying a selected force in proximity to an inbound portion of the upper half of the second structure's closed end so as to cause the first of the second structures to slide along adjacent cooperating edges of the first structure until it no longer bridges and balances between such edges, and drops into the second of the adjacent first structures, the second structure being contained by the first structure and being immersed in the first liquid composition housed therein; whereupon sliding and dropping of the second structure into the first structure, an outbound edge of the second structure's closed end strikes an inbound portion of the upper half of the adjacent second structure bridging and balancing between adjacent cooperating edges of the second of the first structures at the open end thereof, the magnitude of the force applied when the second structure closed end strikes the inbound portion of the upper half of the adjacent second structure being sufficient to cause the second of the second structures to slide along adjacent cooperating edges of the successive first structures until it no longer bridges and balances between such edges, and drops into the third of the adjacent first structures, the second of the second structures being contained by the third of the first structures and being immersed in the first liquid composition housed therein, such that the successive sliding, striking and falling movements create a spectacle for a user's amusement and fun.

15. The method set forth in Claim 14, further comprising the step of mounting a selected, high intensity light source to the support, and arranging the source so as to direct light emitted along the series of first and second structures.

16. The method set forth in Claim 14, wherein each of the first cylinder-like structures is transparent or translucent and has side surfaces sloping generally upwardly so as to minimize splashing.

17. The method set forth in Claim 14, wherein each of the second cylinder-like structures is transparent or translucent and has side surfaces sloping generally upwardly so as to minimize splashing.

18. The apparatus set forth in Claim 14, wherein the first liquid composition selected has a first color and the second liquid composition selected has a second color, the first and second colors being different from but complementary with one another.

19. The apparatus set forth in Claim 14, wherein the first liquid composition selected is chemically reactive with the second liquid composition selected so as to produce a desired effect.