EP3573728B1 - Modular ball track system - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a game in the form of a modular ball track system.

Games using ball roller tracks have long been known, e.g. B. from the German patent DE 34 02 726 C2 , the European patent specification EP 1 150 753 B1 , the US patent 4,713,038 and from the published British patent application GB 2 285 755 A . Modular ball track systems are also known, for example from the German utility model DE 20 2004 007 574 U1 .

From the EP 2 384 797 A1 Furthermore, a modular marble runway system with a large number of basic building blocks is known, each of which has a cuboid basic body, on the top and bottom of which there are coupling devices, the design of which is reminiscent of the well-known Lego building blocks and similarly allow Lego building blocks to place the basic building blocks on one another in the vertical direction. Each basic building block has a marble track track designed as a groove-like depression and / or a marble track channel designed as an opening through the basic body. This known marble track system further comprises a base plate with recesses arranged in a grid, into which the basic building blocks can be inserted. For this purpose, each base module is provided on its underside with a plurality of coupling projections which fit into corresponding depressions arranged on the base plate.

The invention has for its object to provide a ball track system that allows a more varied track design compared to known ball track systems, which is also uncomplicated to use, especially with regard to the construction and dismantling of a ball track, and which can also be manufactured inexpensively in large series .

This object is achieved according to the invention by a modular ball track system which has the features of patent claim 1 or of patent claim 2. Common to both main embodiments of the modular ball track system according to the invention is that they comprise a large number of module elements, all of which have the outer shape of one and the same regular hexagon in plan view. Each module element has an upper side, a lower side opposite the upper side and a number of side surfaces corresponding to its number of corners. On his On the upper side, each module element forms at least a section of a ball track that passes through a side surface of the module element. In other words, the at least one section of the ball track formed on the top of each module element begins (or ends) on the one side surface of the module element in such a way that the ball track can be continued by a further ball track section of an adjacent module element. The section of the ball track formed on the top of the module element is preferably a recessed section, ie the ball track section is embedded in the top of the module element. Each module element of the plurality of module elements is preferably disk-shaped, ie a height of each module element is significantly less than an extension of the module element in the two other spatial directions.

In the first main embodiment, a plug-in base protrudes from the bottom of each module element. A base plate belonging to the first main embodiment of the modular ball track system has a large number of regularly arranged recesses for receiving a plug-in base, the large number of recesses on the base plate being arranged in a grid and a grid dimension of the grid corresponding to the inner circle diameter of the regular hexagon forming the outer shape of the module elements . Module elements, which are inserted into recesses of the base plate lying directly next to each other, abut each other flush with one side surface. In the case of appropriately arranged module elements, the ball track sections formed on the upper sides of the module elements thus form a coherent ball track without connecting elements being required between the individual module elements and without the individual module elements having to be fastened to one another.

According to the second main embodiment of the modular ball track system according to the invention, each module element has a recess on its underside for receiving a plug-in base and the base plate belonging to the second main embodiment has a plurality of regularly arranged plug-in bases for interacting with a respective recess, the plurality of plug-in bases on the base plate in turn are arranged in a grid and a grid dimension of the grid corresponds to the incircle diameter of the regular hexagon forming the outer shape of the module elements. Analogous to the first main embodiment, module elements, which are plugged onto the base plate of the base plate lying directly next to one another, each meet flush with one side surface. The advantages resulting from this correspond to those of the first main embodiment. Within the scope of this description, the pitch is the distance between two recesses or plug-in bases lying directly next to one another on the base plate. An advantage of both main embodiments of the modular ball track system according to the invention is that all module elements have the same external shape of a regular hexagon and the same external dimensions. On the one hand, this enables inexpensive manufacture, e.g. B. by a plastic injection molding process, and on the other hand leads to an immense variety of possible combinations of the module elements on the base plate due to the grid dimension, which corresponds to the insect diameter of the selected, regular hexagon forming the outer shape of the module elements. The selected grid size and the same external shape and size of the module elements also have the consequence that, despite the large number of possible combinations, a desired combination of module elements can be carried out in an uncomplicated manner in order to implement a desired ball track. The difference between the first main embodiment and the second main embodiment of the ball track system according to the invention lies only in the interchanging of the functional elements of the plug-in base and the recess for receiving a plug-in base. While in the first main embodiment each module element has a plug-in base which protrudes from the underside of the module element and can be plugged into one of the recesses in the base plate, according to the second main embodiment each module element has a recess on its underside with which it fits onto one of the base plates arranged socket is pluggable. In both main embodiments, the functional elements of the plug-in base and recess are designed in such a way that, when connected to one another, there is a slight clamping effect which holds the respective parts together.

In principle, the shape of each plug-in base can be independent of the external shape of the regular hexagon forming the module elements. For example, the plug-in base can have a circular cylindrical shape, the recess serving to receive a respective plug-in base then also being circular. However, the shape of each plug-in base and the shape of each recess for receiving a respective plug-in base are preferably selected such that it is only possible to insert two module elements arranged next to one another in or onto the base plate in a position in which these module elements each have one Butt the side surface together. In other words, each pole base and each receptacle are designed in such a way that these two functional elements can only interact in one of the positions corresponding to the number of corners of the selected regular polygon, in such a way that module elements arranged next to one another, each with one side surface, abut one another flush. Embodiments of the ball track system according to the invention are particularly preferred, in which the shape of each plug-in base and the shape of each recess for receiving a respective plug-in base has the same shape as the regular hexagon forming the outer shape of the module elements, but with a smaller incircle diameter. If the selected regular polygon is a hexagon, then the plug-in base and the recess serving to receive the plug-in base also have an interlocking shape of a regular hexagon, the outer dimensions of which, however, are smaller than the outer dimension of the hexagon, which forms the outer shape of the module elements, due to the smaller insect diameter . The correspondence between the outer shape of the module elements and the shape of the plug-in base or the recesses serving to receive a respective plug-in base facilitates an intuitive combination of the individual module elements.

In order to further increase the variability of the ball track system according to the invention, preferred configurations include, in addition to the large number of module elements, also connecting rails for bridging a distance between two module elements which are not arranged directly next to one another, each connecting rail forming a section of the ball track. Each connecting rail preferably has two spars which form the ball track section and are arranged parallel to one another, each having a free end on both sides and which are fixed to one another by a plurality of struts which extend transversely to the spars below the ball track. As a result, such connecting rails have a ladder-like appearance. The free ends of the spars are preferably bent downward in the manner of hooks in order to be able to hang the connecting rails into the module elements, as will be explained in more detail below.

The spars preferably have a cylindrical, in particular circular-cylindrical cross section, so that a ball can roll well on the spars of a connecting rail arranged parallel to one another. The struts extending transversely to the spars can be arranged such that they are not touched by a ball rolling on a connecting rail, which reduces the frictional resistance that a ball has to overcome when rolling.

Connection rails having spars and struts are advantageously designed such that a strut is arranged near the free ends of the spars and is extended upwards on both sides of the ball track to form guard rails, which at the ends of the connection rail reduce the risk of a ball jumping off reduce the connecting rail. In addition, at Holme and struts having connecting rails advantageously provide each spar on its upper side near its free end with a ramp-like elevation, so that a ball rolling on the connecting rail is raised slightly in the region of the end of the connecting rail in order to free from the connecting rail in the on the top of a module element trained ball track section to be able to enter. In this way it is prevented that possible level differences when moving from a connecting rail to a module element cause impacts on a rolling ball which could lead to the ball jumping out of the ball track.

For the simple and secure connection of connecting rails and module elements to one another, the module elements are preferably designed such that each module element immediately adjacent to the or each point at which a ball track section formed on its top passes through a side face of the module element, a pair of suspension openings embedded in the ball track on both sides Has connecting rails. For example, the hook-like free ends of the spars of the connecting rails described above can be inserted into these hook-in openings. These suspension openings are preferably designed such that they allow the connecting rails a predetermined amount of movement in the longitudinal direction of the ball track. In this way, connecting rails with a constant length can connect not only module elements that are on one and the same level, but also module elements that are arranged at different heights.

In order to be able to arrange module elements at different heights, preferred embodiments of ball track systems according to the invention comprise column elements with a predetermined height, with each column element either on its underside a socket base corresponding to the socket base of the module elements and on its top side a recess corresponding to the recesses for receiving a socket base in the base plate in order to be compatible with the first main embodiment described at the outset, or on its underside has a recess corresponding to the recess of the module elements and on its upper side has a plug base corresponding to the base of the base plate in order to be compatible with the second main embodiment mentioned at the beginning. A ball track system according to the invention preferably comprises column elements with different predetermined heights, e.g. B. column elements, the height of which corresponds to a height unit and column elements, the height of which corresponds to half a height unit.

Preferred embodiments of ball track systems according to the invention further comprise at least one intermediate plate, the intermediate plate having a plurality of regularly arranged recesses for receiving a plug-in base, the shape and arrangement of which correspond to the recesses in the base plate for receiving a plug-in base, and each recess of the intermediate plate on its underside is provided with a socket corresponding to the socket of the module elements. Such an intermediate plate is compatible with the first main embodiment described above. Alternatively, the intermediate plate has a multiplicity of regularly arranged plug-in bases which correspond in shape and arrangement to the plug-in bases of the base plate for interacting with a respective recess, with each plug-in base of the intermediate plate being provided on its underside with a recess corresponding to the recess of the module elements. Such a configuration of the intermediate plate is compatible with the second main embodiment described at the beginning.

The previously described intermediate plates, in combination with the column elements described above, make it possible to implement intermediate levels arranged above the base plate, on which parts of the ball track are located. The or each intermediate plate is preferably made of transparent material, so that such an intermediate plane allows a view of the sections of the ball track located underneath. Several intermediate plates enable the realization of a larger intermediate level on one and the same level or the implementation of several intermediate levels on different levels. The variability of a ball track system according to the invention is further increased in this way.

The base plate of a ball track system according to the invention is preferably formed from a plurality of base plate segments which can be hooked together in the base plate plane. For example, there may be dovetail-shaped projections and recesses on the edges of the base plate segments, which cooperate with corresponding dovetail-shaped recesses and projections on another base plate segment. A division of the base plate into base plate segments facilitates the packaging and the transport according to the invention Ball track systems and also allows the area of a base plate to be enlarged as required.

Although the plurality of module elements of a ball track system according to the invention all have the outer shape of the selected regular hexagon in plan view, they can also differ from one another in many ways. For example, a ball track system according to the invention can comprise a plurality of module elements, on the upper side of which a first curved ball track section and a second curved ball track section are formed, the first ball track section being more curved than the second ball track section. Such module elements can be combined with one another in many ways in order to implement more or less curved ball tracks or to implement the desired change of direction of a ball track.

Furthermore, a ball track system according to the invention can comprise at least one module element with a central opening which is connected to the at least one ball track section formed on the top of the module element and can accommodate a functional insert which is assigned to the at least a section of the ball track. For example, such a functional insert can receive a ball rolling up on the ball track section and drop it down through a hole onto another plane of the ball track if the central opening is designed as a through opening. Alternatively, such a functional insert can be designed as a starting ramp, from which a ball begins to roll down a built-up ball track. In principle, such a module element with a central opening for receiving a functional insert also enables a more rational production of module elements with different functions, since the module element itself can be of the same design and the different function is only realized by the functional insert inserted into the central opening.

Preferred configurations of a ball track system according to the invention also include module elements in which the at least one ball track section which is formed on the top of the module element contains an action element, such as a switch, a looping, a ball lifting mechanism, a slingshot, a funnel, etc. Such action elements make it possible to realize particularly exciting ball tracks.

Normally, a ball track system according to the invention will comprise several balls of the same size and weight. However, as an alternative or in addition, it is also possible to provide balls of the same size and different weight in order to be able to generate a different course of the game by means of the balls themselves.

Additionally or alternatively, balls with different magnetic properties can also belong to a ball track system according to the invention, whereby the course of the game can also be influenced.

• ∘ Weichen mit elektronischer Umschaltung der Weichenstellung.
• ∘ Modulelemente, bei denen die Kugel auf eine untere Ebene fällt, und Schranken können gezielt bzw. zeitlich gesteuert elektronisch geöffnet werden.
• ∘ Modulelemente, bei denen eine Kugel beschleunigt wird, können gezielt bzw. zeitlich gesteuert ausgelöst werden.
• ∘ Modul-Startstein mit Taster startet eine elektronische Zeitmessung beim Auslösen der Kugeln.
• ∘ Modulelemente erkennen über einen Farbsensor die einlaufenden Kugeln und erfassen die Reihenfolge der eingelaufenen Kugeln.
• ∘ Modulelemente stoppen die Zeitmessung, wenn eine bestimmte Anzahl Kugeln oder Kugeln in bestimmten Farben eingelaufen sind (einstellbar).
• ∘ Modulelemente können RFID-Tags auslesen. Dadurch können sie gezielt einzelne Kugeln bestimmen und unterschiedlich reagieren.
• ∘ Modulelemente, die über einen optischen oder elektrischen Sensor (es wird ein Kontakt geschlossen) erkennen, wenn eine Kugel das Modulelement durchquert oder in das Modulelement hineinrollt.
• ∘ Modulelemente enthalten Lichtschranken zur Geschwindigkeitsmessung.
• ∘ Modulelemente können eine eingebaute Soundausgabe enthalten: Sound wird abgespielt, wenn eine zuvor definierte Bedingung eintritt (z.B. Kugel durchläuft das Modulelement, oder im Ziel trifft eine Kugel ein).
• ∘ Modulelemente können eine eingebaute Leuchtquelle (typischerweise LED) enthalten. Leuchtquelle leuchtet auf, wenn eine zuvor definierte Bedingung eintritt (z.B. Kugel durchläuft das Modulelement, oder im Ziel trifft eine Kugel ein). Die Leuchtquelle kann in verschiedenen Farben leuchten.
  • Modulelemente können eine eigene Stromversorgung besitzen (z.B. über aufladbare oder nicht aufladbare und wechselbare Batterien).
  • Modulelemente können einen integrierten Prozessor besitzen, mit dem sie selbständig eingehende Signale auswerten und Reaktionen auslösen können.
  • Modulelemente können ein Funkmodul besitzen, mit dem sie untereinander und/oder mit einer zentralen Einheit kommunizieren können.
    • ∘ Die zentrale Einheit kann eine eigene Stromversorgung besitzt und kann über Funk mit allen elektronischen Modulelementen mit Funkmodul kommunizieren. Über die zentrale Einheit können die Eigenschaften der elektronischen Modulelemente eingestellt werden. Über die zentrale Einheit kann außerdem eine logische Verknüpfung zwischen elektronischen Modulelementen hergestellt werden. (Beispiel: Weiche stellt sich erst um, wenn im Ziel eine definierte Kugel eingelaufen ist.)
    • ∘ Die zentrale Einheit kann über Eingabeelemente (z.B. Taster, Schalter) gesteuert werden. Als Ausgabeelement kann ein eingebauter Lautsprecher oder ein eingebauter Bildschirm dienen.
    • ∘ Alternativ kann sich die zentrale Einheit über Funk mit einem smart device (Smartphone, Tablet, PC) verbinden. Über das smart device können alle Einstellungen der zentralen Einheit (z.B. Parametrisierung und Programmierung der elektronischen Modulelemente) vorgenommen werden.
  • Elektronische Modulelemente können ein Funkmodul besitzen, mit dem sie direkt mit einem smart device (Smartphone, Tablet, PC) mit geeigneter Software (App) kommunizieren können.
  • Über Funk können in den Modulelementen die typischen Parameter jedes Modulelements eingestellt werden (je nach Modulelement z.B. Auslösebedingung, Wartezeiten, logische Funktionen...).
  • Über Funk melden die elektronischen Modulelemente ihren Status und Statusänderungen an die zentrale Einheit oder an ein smart device oder direkt an andere elektronische Modulelemente.
  • Elektronische Modulelemente können Schalter oder Taster am Modulelement besitzen, über die typische Parameter des Modulelements direkt am Modulelement eingestellt werden können.

Finally, balls of ball track systems according to the invention can also include an integrated RFID chip in order to be able to interact with electrical or electronic components of ball track systems according to the invention in this way. For example, sensors can be present in ball track systems according to the invention which can differentiate the balls on the basis of the RFID chip contained in them, in order to be able to influence the course of the game depending on certain balls by means of actuators which are also present. So a ball held on a module element z. B. only be released when certain balls are detected on other module elements. Such RFID balls can also be used to carry out an electronic time measurement in order to determine which ball reaches a predetermined target the fastest. Module elements with electronic equipment can be used to implement module elements with the following properties:

• ∘ Switches with electronic switchover of the switch position.
• ∘ Module elements where the ball falls on a lower level and barriers can be opened electronically in a targeted or time-controlled manner.
• ∘ Module elements in which a ball is accelerated can be triggered in a targeted or time-controlled manner.
• ∘ Module start stone with button starts an electronic time measurement when the balls are released.
• ∘ Module elements recognize the incoming balls via a color sensor and record the order of the incoming balls.
• ∘ Module elements stop the time measurement when a certain number of balls or balls in certain colors have arrived (adjustable).
• ∘ Module elements can read out RFID tags. This allows you to target individual balls and react differently.
• Elemente Module elements that detect via an optical or electrical sensor (a contact is closed) when a ball crosses the module element or rolls into the module element.
• ∘ Module elements contain light barriers for speed measurement.
• ∘ Module elements can contain a built-in sound output: Sound is played when a previously defined condition occurs (e.g. ball passes through the module element or a ball arrives at the target).
• ∘ Module elements can contain a built-in light source (typically LED). The light source lights up when a previously defined condition occurs (e.g. a ball passes through the module element or a ball arrives at the target). The light source can shine in different colors.
  • Module elements can have their own power supply (e.g. via rechargeable or non-rechargeable and exchangeable batteries).
  • Module elements can have an integrated processor with which they can independently evaluate incoming signals and trigger reactions.
  • Module elements can have a radio module with which they can communicate with one another and / or with a central unit.
    • ∘ The central unit can have its own power supply and can communicate via radio with all electronic module elements with radio module. The properties of the electronic module elements can be set via the central unit. A logical link between electronic module elements can also be established via the central unit. (Example: the switch only changes when a defined ball has entered the target.)
    • ∘ The central unit can be controlled using input elements (e.g. buttons, switches). A built-in loudspeaker or a built-in screen can serve as the output element.
    • ∘ Alternatively, the central unit can connect to a smart device (smartphone, tablet, PC) via radio. All settings of the central unit (e.g. parameterization and programming of the electronic module elements) can be made via the smart device.
  • Electronic module elements can have a radio module with which they can communicate directly with a smart device (smartphone, tablet, PC) with suitable software (app).
  • The typical parameters of each module element can be set via radio in the module elements (depending on the module element, for example, triggering condition, waiting times, logical functions ...).
  • The electronic module elements report their status and status changes via radio to the central unit or to a smart device or directly to other electronic module elements.
  • Electronic module elements can have switches or buttons on the module element, via which typical parameters of the module element can be set directly on the module element.

• Betrachtet man die Kugelbahn über eine spezielle Software (z. B. App) durch die Kamera eines smart device (z. B. Smartphone, Tablet, PC), so wird die Kugelbahn zum Leben erweckt. Bewegliche und unbewegliche Teile der der Bahn werden im Videobild durch virtuelle Grafiken ergänzt und/oder ersetzt. Soundeffekte werden passend zur Position der Kugeln abgespielt.
• Mit Hilfe einer Kamera in einem smart device (z. B. Smartphone, Tablet, PC) werden Aufnahmen der Bahn erstellt. Die Daten werden von einer geeigneten Software auf dem smart device oder auf Servern elektronisch ausgewertet und weiterverarbeitet. Der so entstandene räumliche Datensatz ist die Basis für die Software, um die Anzahl und Art der verwendeten Modulelemente zu berechnen. Die Software erstellt dann eine passende Bauanleitung, die auf dem smart device abgespeichert werden kann.
• Betrachtet man die Bahn über eine spezielle Software (z. B. App) durch die Kamera eines smart device, wird die Position der Kugel in Echtzeit erfasst. Passend dazu steuert das smart device elektronische Modulelemente mit Funkmodul, während die Kugel die Bahn durchläuft.

Finally, it is also possible to extend ball track systems according to the invention in interaction with, for example, a smartphone, tablet or a PC and special software (for example in the form of an app) with a so-called augmented reality or virtual reality.

• If you look at the ball track using special software (e.g. app) through the camera of a smart device (e.g. smartphone, tablet, PC), the ball track is brought to life. Movable and immovable parts of the web are supplemented and / or replaced in the video image by virtual graphics. Sound effects are played to match the position of the balls.
• With the help of a camera in a smart device (e.g. smartphone, tablet, PC), pictures of the train are taken. The data is evaluated and processed electronically by suitable software on the smart device or on servers. The resulting spatial data set is the basis for the software to calculate the number and type of module elements used. The software then creates suitable building instructions that can be saved on the smart device.
• If you look at the track using special software (e.g. app) through the camera of a smart device, the position of the ball is recorded in real time. In keeping with this, the smart device controls electronic module elements with a radio module while the ball passes through the track.

Figur 1

eine räumliche Darstellung eines beispielhaften Modulelements eines erfindungsgemäßen Kugelbahnsystems von schräg oben,

Figur 2

das Modulelement aus Figur 1 in einer Seitenansicht,

Figur 3

das Modulelement aus Figur 1 in einer räumlichen Darstellung von schräg unten,

Figur 4

eine aus mehreren Grundplattensegmenten bestehende Grundplatte eines erfindungsgemäßen Kugelbahnsystems,

Figur 5

ein Grundplattensegment aus Figur 4 in vergrößerter Darstellung,

Figur 6

eine räumliche Darstellung einer Verbindungsschiene eines erfindungsgemäßen Kugelbahnsystems zum Überbrücken eines Abstands zwischen Modulelementen,

Figur 7

das in Figur 6 obere Ende der Verbindungsschiene in vergrößerter Darstellung,

Figur 8a und 8b

das Zusammenwirken der Verbindungsschiene aus Figur 6 mit dem Modulelement aus Figur 1 in zwei verschiedenen Zuständen,

Figur 9

ein Säulenelement einer erfindungsgemäßen Kugelbahn in räumlicher Darstellung von schräg oben,

Figur 10

das Säulenelement aus Figur 9 im Längsschnitt,

Figur 11

eine Zwischenplatte eines erfindungsgemäßen Kugelbahnsystems in räumlicher Darstellung von schräg oben,

Figur 12

ein Modulelement mit einer zentralen Öffnung zur Aufnahme eines Funktionseinsatzes in räumlicher Darstellung von schräg oben,

Figur 13a bis 13d

verschiedene Funktionseinsätze, die in das Modulelement aus Figur 12 einsetzbar sind, in räumlicher Darstellung von schräg oben,

Figur 14

ein anderes Modulelement in räumlicher Darstellung von schräg oben,

Figur 15

ein noch anderes Modulelement in Verbindung mit einer Zieleinlaufschiene in räumlicher Darstellung,

Figur 16

ein Modulelement mit Weichenfunktion in Draufsicht,

Figur 17

ein Modulelement mit Strudelfunktion in räumlicher Darstellung von schräg oben,

Figur 18

ein Modulelement mit Startfunktion in räumlicher Darstellung von schräg oben,

Figur 19

ein Modulelement mit einer Gauss-Kanonenfunktion in räumlicher Darstellung von schräg oben,

Figur 20

ein Modulelement mit einer Kugelhebefunktion in Verbindung mit zwei angrenzenden Modulelementen,

Figur 21

ein Modulelement mit einer stärkeren Kugelhebefunktion in Verbindung mit zwei angrenzenden Modulelementen,

Figur 22

ein Modulelement mit einer Schrankenfunktion in Verbindung mit drei angrenzenden Modulelementen,

Figur 23

ein Modulelement mit einer Schleuder- bzw. Katapultfunktion in Verbindung mit zwei angrenzenden Modulelementen,

Figur 24

ein Modulelement mit einer Beschleunigungsfunktion in Verbindung mit zwei angrenzenden Modulelementen,

Figur 25

ein Modulelement zum Freigeben einer Kugel durch eine andere Kugel,

Figur 26

ein Modulelement mit einer Abschussfunktion in Verbindung mit zwei angrenzenden Modulelementen,

Figur 27

ein Modulelement mit einer Drei-Wege-Aufteilungsfunktion in Verbindung mit vier angrenzenden Modulelementen,

Figur 28

ein Modulelement mit Glockenfunktion,

Figur 29

ein Modulelement mit einer Kreisverkehrs-Funktion in Verbindung mit zwei angrenzenden Modulelementen,

Figur 30

ein Modulelement mit einem Looping,

Figur 31

ein Modulelement mit einer Brückenfunktion,

Figur 32

ein Modulelement mit einer Zielflaggenfunktion,

Figur 33

ein Modulelement mit einer Splash-Funktion,

Figur 34

ein Modulelement mit einer Räuberleiter-Funktion,

Figur 35

ein Modulelement mit einer Lawinenfunktion,

Figur 36

ein Modulelement mit einer Sammel- und Weitergabefunktion,

Figur 37

ein Modulelement mit einer Impulsfunktion, und

Figur 38

das Modulelement aus Figur 37 in anderer Anordnung.

An exemplary embodiment of a modular ball track system according to the invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the attached schematic drawings. It shows:

Figure 1

3 shows a spatial representation of an exemplary module element of a ball track system according to the invention obliquely from above,

Figure 2

the module element Figure 1 in a side view,

Figure 3

the module element Figure 1 in a spatial representation obliquely from below,

Figure 4

a base plate of a ball track system according to the invention consisting of several base plate segments,

Figure 5

a base plate segment Figure 4 in an enlarged view,

Figure 6

3 shows a spatial representation of a connecting rail of a ball track system according to the invention for bridging a distance between module elements,

Figure 7

this in Figure 6 upper end of the connecting rail in an enlarged view,

Figures 8a and 8b

the interaction of the connecting rail Figure 6 with the module element Figure 1 in two different states,

Figure 9

a column element of a ball track according to the invention in a spatial representation obliquely from above,

Figure 10

the column element Figure 9 in longitudinal section,

Figure 11

an intermediate plate of a ball track system according to the invention in a spatial representation obliquely from above,

Figure 12

a module element with a central opening for receiving a functional insert in a spatial representation obliquely from above,

Figure 13a to 13d

various functional inserts that are made in the module element Figure 12 can be used in a spatial representation from obliquely above,

Figure 14

another module element in a spatial representation obliquely from above,

Figure 15

another module element in connection with a finish rail in spatial representation,

Figure 16

a module element with switch function in plan view,

Figure 17

a module element with swirl function in a spatial representation obliquely from above,

Figure 18

a module element with start function in a spatial representation obliquely from above,

Figure 19

a module element with a Gauss cannon function in a spatial representation obliquely from above,

Figure 20

a module element with a ball lifting function in connection with two adjacent module elements,

Figure 21

a module element with a stronger ball lifting function in connection with two adjacent module elements,

Figure 22

a module element with a barrier function in connection with three adjacent module elements,

Figure 23

a module element with a slingshot or catapult function in connection with two adjacent module elements,

Figure 24

a module element with an acceleration function in connection with two adjacent module elements,

Figure 25

a module element for releasing a ball by another ball,

Figure 26

a module element with a launch function in connection with two adjacent module elements,

Figure 27

a module element with a three-way division function in connection with four adjacent module elements,

Figure 28

a module element with bell function,

Figure 29

a module element with a roundabout function in connection with two adjacent module elements,

Figure 30

a module element with a loop,

Figure 31

a module element with a bridge function,

Figure 32

a module element with a checkered flag function,

Figure 33

a module element with a splash function,

Figure 34

a module element with a robber ladder function,

Figure 35

a module element with an avalanche function,

Figure 36

a module element with a collection and transfer function,

Figure 37

a module element with an impulse function, and

Figure 38

the module element Figure 37 in a different arrangement.

In the Figures 1 to 3 In various views, an exemplary module element 12 of a modular ball track system is shown, which comprises a plurality of such module elements, all of which have the illustrated outer shape of a regular hexagon of the same size and each form one or more ball track sections on their upper side, which are formed by the module elements being put together let combine.

That in the Figures 1 to 3 The exemplary module element 12 shown has, like all other module elements of the modular ball track system, an upper side 14, an underside 16 opposite the upper side and six side surfaces 18. On the top 14 there are two ball track sections in the module element 12 shown 20 and 22 are formed, which have a circular segment-shaped cross section and are embedded in the surface 14 of the module element 12. A first ball track section 20 begins in FIG Figure 1 left side surface 18 of the module element 12 and extends in a curved shape to the in Figure 1 directly adjacent top surface 18 of the module element 12, the two side surfaces 18 being penetrated by the first ball track section 20 so that the ball track can be continued by adding further module elements. A second ball track section 22 begins in a left, lower side face 18 of FIG Figure 1 Module element 12 shown and runs in a weaker curvature up to the next but one, in Figure 1 right side surface 18 of the module element 12. It goes without saying that the beginning and the end of the ball track sections 20, 22 only depend on the direction in which a ball passes through the corresponding ball track section. The start of a ball track section can therefore also be the end of the ball track section, depending on the direction in which the ball passes through the ball track section.

As especially from the Figures 1 and 2 The exemplary module element 12 and all other module elements of the modular ball track system are clearly disc-shaped, i.e. the height of the side surfaces 18 which extend at least approximately at right angles to the upper side 14 is significantly less than the dimensions of the module element 12 in the two other spatial directions of a Cartesian coordinate system .

How best from the Figures 2 and 3rd can be seen, protrudes from the underside 16 of the exemplary module element 12 and also from all other module elements of the modular ball track system, which in the illustrated embodiment also has the shape of a regular hexagon, the sides of which parallel to the side faces 18 of the outer shape of the module element 12 hexagons. How out Figure 3 As can be seen, the exemplary module element 12 is a part produced by a plastic injection molding process, which is why the underside 16 is largely open. To increase the stability of such a module element 12, reinforcing ribs 26 extend between the outer walls 28 forming the side surfaces 18 and the inner walls 30 forming the plug-in base 24.

The modular ball track system also includes one in the Figures 4 and 5 shown base plate 32 with a plurality of regularly arranged, here hexagonal Recesses 34, each of which is used to receive a plug base 24. The recesses 34 are arranged on the base plate 32 in a honeycomb-shaped grid here, the grid dimension s of the grid corresponding to the inner circle diameter of the regular hexagon forming the outer shape of the module elements, that is to say the diameter of the largest circle into the hexagon forming the outer shape of the module elements can be registered.

By means of the plug-in base 24, module elements such as the exemplary module element 12 can thus be inserted into recesses 34 of the base plate 32, whereby module elements which are inserted into recesses 34 of the base plate 32 lying directly next to one another, each with one of their side surfaces 18, abut one another in such a manner that a ball track section formed on a module element can transition almost seamlessly into a ball track section formed on an adjacent module element. As if from a synopsis of Figures 3 to 5 readily understandable, the inciral diameter d of each recess 34 is smaller than the incidental diameter corresponding to the grid dimension s of the hexagon forming the outer shape of a module element.

In the Figure 4 The illustrated base plate 32 is composed of a plurality of base plate segments 36, one of which is shown in an enlarged view in Figure 5 is reproduced. For the positive connection of the base plate segments 36 in the base plate plane, each base plate segment 36 is provided at its edges with dovetail-shaped projections 38 and dovetail-shaped recesses 40, by means of which the individual base plate segments 36 can be hooked together. The illustrated embodiment of the projections 38 and the recesses 40 is only an example. In other, not shown embodiments of base plate segments, the projections and recesses can have a different shape and both projections and recesses can be present on one edge of a base plate segment. Furthermore, the base plate segments 36 of the exemplary embodiment shown here consist of stable cardboard, such as is used, for example, for the production of conventional puzzles, but the base plate segments can also consist of another material, for example of plastic, a metal or of wood.

It should be clear from the above description that module elements such as the exemplary module element 12 on the base plate 32 form a ball track can be combined by placing the individual module elements next to one another on the base plate 32 in accordance with a desired course of the ball track. However, the module elements do not necessarily have to be arranged directly next to one another on the base plate 32, because the modular ball track system according to the present invention further comprises connecting rails 42 which are shown in FIGS Figures 6 and 7 are shown. Although in Figure 6 Only one connecting rail 42 with a predetermined length is shown, the modular ball track system can also comprise connecting rails with a different length, for example three different connecting rails of different lengths, the length of which has a ratio of 1: 2: 3 to each other, i.e. the longest connecting rail is three times as long as the shortest connecting rail.

The connecting rail 42 is essentially formed from two spars 44, which are arranged parallel to one another and form a section of the ball track, with a circular-cylindrical cross section here, the spars 44 being joined together by a plurality (here three) of struts 46 extending transversely to the spars 44 below the ball track ladder-like construct are connected. Each spar 44 has two free ends 48 bent downward in a hook-like manner. By means of these hook-like ends 48, the connecting rail 42 can be suspended in a pair of suspension openings 50, which in the exemplary module element 12 (and also in any other module element) at the end or beginning each ball track section formed on a module element (see Figure 1 ). More precisely, the hanging openings 50 on both sides of the ball track are embedded in the ball track immediately adjacent to the point at which a ball track section passes through a side surface 18 of the module element 12.

The interaction of the free ends 48 of a connecting rail 42 bent downward like a hook with the hanging openings 50 of a module element 12 is shown in FIGS Figures 8a and 8b shown in more detail. It shows Figure 8a a configuration in which the connecting rail 42 connects a module element 12 to another module element (not shown) located in the same plane, whereas Figure 8b shows a configuration in which the connecting rail 42 connects a higher lying module element 12 with a lower lying module element (not shown). The two in the Figures 8a and 8b Configurations shown are possible in spite of a constant length of the connecting rail 42, since the hanging openings 50 adhere to the free ends 48 of the connecting rail 42 to a predetermined dimension x Allow freedom of movement in the longitudinal direction of the connecting rail 42 and thus in the longitudinal direction of the ball track.

Connecting rails 42 thus serve to bridge a distance between two module elements which are not arranged directly next to one another and which can be located either on the same level or on different levels. In order to reduce the risk of a ball moving along the ball track falling from the ball track when passing from a module element to a connecting rail or vice versa, each strut 46 arranged near the free ends 48 of the spars 44 is laterally extended and pulled up to place on it Form near the transition from a connecting rail 42 to a module element on both sides of the ball track guardrails 52 on which a ball can be supported if necessary (see Figure 7 ). In order to make the transition between a connecting rail 42 and a module element for a ball rolling on the ball track as smooth as possible, each spar 44 is also provided in a region near each free end on its upper side with a ramp-like elevation 54, which one on the connecting rail 42 rolling ball just before it passes onto a module element. In the embodiment shown, the connecting rails 42 can advantageously be realized as plastic injection molded parts.

It was already said that the modular elements of the modular ball track system do not all have to be on the same level. In order to be able to arrange module elements such as the exemplary module element 12 at different heights, the ball track system comprises column elements, of which one column element 56 in FIG Figures 9 and 10 is shown. In accordance with the module elements, the column elements 56 have the outer shape of a regular hexagon with a slightly smaller incircle diameter than the module elements. So that the column elements 56 can be freely combined with module elements and the base plate 32, each column element 56 has a recess 34 ′ on its upper side, the arrangement and dimensions of which correspond to a recess 34 of the base plate 32. The plug base 24 of a module element 12 thus fits into this recess 34 '. Furthermore, each column element 56 has a plug base 24' on its underside, which corresponds in shape, arrangement and dimension to the plug base 24 of the module element 12. By using one or more stacked column elements 56 and then placing a module element 12 on top column element 56, module elements can thus be arranged at many different heights. For finer heights, this can be done Ball track system contain pillar elements with different heights, for example pillar elements whose height h is only half as large as that in the Figures 9 and 10 Column element 56 shown.

Using the previously described column elements 56, larger areas of the ball track according to the invention can also be arranged at a higher level than the base plate 32. An in Figure 11 Intermediate plate 58 shown which, like the base plate 32, has a multiplicity of regularly arranged hexagonal recesses 34 "for receiving a respective plug base 24, 24 '. The recesses 34" of the intermediate plate 58 are arranged in the same honeycomb grid as the recesses 34 of the base plate 32 and have the same grid dimension s. On the underside of each recess 34 ″ of the intermediate plate 58, a plug base 24 ″ is formed, which fits, for example, into the recess 34 ′ of a column element 56. By supporting an intermediate plate 58 on the base plate 32 by means of a plurality of columns each made up of column elements 56, intermediate planes of the ball track can be realized which make the course of the ball track more interesting and exciting. In order to allow a view of the areas of the ball track located under an intermediate plate 58, the illustrated intermediate plate 58 is advantageously made of transparent plastic.

Various configurations of the module elements of the modular ball track system according to the invention are explained in more detail below. Figure 12 shows a module element 12 ', the peripheral shape and dimensions of which in Figure 1 shown module element 12, but which has a central opening 60, which is designed here as a through opening and is connected to a plurality of ball track sections 20 'formed on the upper side 14 of the module element 12' and serves to accommodate a functional insert which is used for at least one of the ball track sections 20 ' assigned. In the Figures 13a to 13d several exemplary functional inserts are shown.

Figure 13a shows a trough-shaped functional insert 62, which can serve, for example, as a target that all balls should reach. The balls reaching the target then collect in the functional insert 62.

Figure 13b shows a ramp-shaped functional insert 62 ', which can be used, for example, to collect balls from a higher level and through one Forward outlet 64 to one of the ball track sections 20 '. Alternatively, the functional insert 62 'can serve as the starting point of a ball track.

Figure 13c shows a functional insert 62 "which receives a ball rolling over a ball track section 20 'of the module element 12' and guides it into the central through opening 60 of the module element 12 ', so that this ball falls from a higher level into an underlying level.

Figure 13d finally shows a functional insert 62 "'which is connected to each of the three ball track sections 20' of the module element 12 'and has three troughs 66, in each of which a ball (not shown) can be placed. Now another ball falls centrally from above The three balls located in the troughs 66 "spray" onto the functional insert 62 "', for example using the previously described functional insert 62" in a module element 12' arranged on a higher level, in the direction of the three ball track sections 20 'of the module element 12' from that.

The functional inserts 62, 62 ', 62 "and 62'" described above are only examples. Many other functional uses are possible. Also, the central opening 60 of the module element 12 'does not necessarily have to be designed as a through opening, but instead can have a bottom (not shown) if passage of a ball downward is not required.

Figure 14 shows a further module element 12 ", which differs from that in Figure 1 Module element 12 shown only differs in that the two ball track sections 20 'and 22' formed on its top 14 intersect.

Figure 15 shows a module element 12 "', which leads three ball track sections 20", 21 and 22 "to a common exit, on which one of the connecting rails 42 Figure 6 similar finish rail 68 is mounted. This target entry rail 68 is not used to bridge a distance between two module elements, but to accommodate balls that arrive one after the other in the target. The target placement of the balls results from the sequence of the balls received by the target entry rail 68.

Module elements which contain an action element in addition to the at least one ball track section which is formed on its upper side are explained below.

Figure 16 shows a plan view of a module element 70 with a switch function. On the top 14 of the module element 70, two ball track sections 71, 72 are formed, which together have a Y-shaped shape. A switch element 74 is rotatably mounted over the Y-shaped part of the ball track on the upper side 14 of the module element 70 and has a long guide arm 76 directed towards the foot of the Y and two short control arms 78 directed towards the legs of the Y. In the in Figure 16 reproduced position of the switch element 74, a ball arriving at the base of the Y is guided by the guide arm 76 of the switch element 74 into the right ball track section 72 and hits the right of the two control arms 78 there. The impact of the ball on this control arm 78 ensures that the control arm 78 is rotated Switch element 74 counterclockwise, so that the ball can continue to roll and the guide arm 76 now rests on the opposite side of the ball track at the foot of the Y, whereby the next ball rolling into the module element 70 at the foot of the Y is guided into the left ball track section 71 , whereupon the switch element 74 again in the in Figure 16 shown position rotated. The module element 70 accordingly guides balls rolling in at the base of the Y alternately into the ball track section 71 or the ball track section 72. Of course, the switch element 74 can also be rotated by hand, if desired.

Figure 17 shows a module element 80 with a so-called vortex function. For this purpose, the module element 80 is provided with a funnel-shaped area 82 which has a central opening 84 at the bottom. Balls entering the module element 80 via the ball track sections 20 ′ first move in the funnel-shaped area 82 in a swirl-line manner and then fall down through the central opening 84 out of the module element 80.

Figure 18 shows a module element 86 with a start function for three balls. For this purpose, three ball receptacles 88 are formed on the top of the module element 86 in a central area, in each of which a ball (not shown) can be placed. A trigger component 90 which overlaps the balls and is resiliently mounted normally to the upper side of the module element 86 prevents the balls arranged in the ball receptacles 88 from rolling out in an upper position into which it is urged by the spring, in each case by means of a threshold 92 which emerges from the associated one Ball track section 20 'protrudes upwards. By pressing the trigger component 90 centrally against the spring force, the sleepers 92 are lowered to such an extent that balls located in the ball receptacles 88 can roll away simultaneously.

Figure 19 shows a module element 94 with a so-called Gauss cannon function. To implement this function, a ball track section 96 extending transversely across the module element 94 is blocked by a disk-shaped magnet 98 arranged transversely to the ball track section 96, which is received in a bridge-shaped holder 100. One or two balls of magnetic material, which are prevented from rolling away by the magnetic force, can be placed on both sides of the magnet 98. If a further ball now rolls into the ball track section 96 from one side and strikes the balls already located there, a ball on the side of the magnet 98 opposite the impact is released by the impulse of the impacting ball.

Figure 20 shows a module element 102 with a ball lifting function. On the upper side 14 of the module element 102, a ball track section 104 is formed with a ramp 106, the level of which is higher than the start of the ball track section 104. A lever 110 is rotatably mounted on a holder 108 which bridges over the ball track section 104. The lever 110 is at its in Figure 20 End arranged at the bottom is provided with a trigger 112, which has a short arm 113 which projects downwards in the position shown and a long arm 114 which extends at right angles thereto in the direction of a rolling ball. A weight 116 is attached to the opposite end of the lever 110. In the in Figure 20 shown starting position of the lever 110 is in a so-called dead center position, ie the weight 116 is located with its center of gravity somewhat to the right of a plane extending through the holder 108 and normal to the top 14 of the module element 102. A ball rolling into the module element 102 strikes the short arm 113 of the trigger 112, whereby the lever 110 is rotated counterclockwise from its over-center position, so that the weight now located to the left of the plane passing through the holder 108 is the rotation of the Lever 110 continues and accelerates. The ball is gripped by the long arm 114 of the trigger 112 and the ramp 106 is moved up.

Figure 21 shows another module element 118 with a more pronounced ball lifting function. Similar to the previously described module element 102, a lever 110 'is rotatably mounted on a holder 108' and provided with a weight 116 '. At its end opposite the weight 116 ', the lever 110' is provided with a cup 120 for receiving a ball. The free edge of this cup 120 abuts against a resiliently mounted release rail 122 mounted in the ball track section 20 'and is thereby prevented from rotating. A ball rolling into the ball track section 20 'presses down the release rail 122 with its weight when it rolls into the cup 120, so that the lever 110' can rotate freely. The weight 116 'rotates the lever 110' clockwise, whereby the ball in the cup 120 is carried to the elevated level of the ball track section 20 '.

Figure 22 shows a module element 124 with a barrier function. For this purpose, an arcuate barrier element 126 spans a ball track section 125 formed on the upper side 14 of the module element 124. In the position shown, the barrier element 126 of a ball blocks the passage to the part of the ball track section 125 located on the other side of the barrier element spoon-shaped trigger 128, which is assigned to a further ball track section 129 of the module element 124. The barrier formed from the aforementioned two parts is rotatably supported at 130 between the spoon-shaped trigger 128 and the arcuate barrier element 126. If a ball comes into contact with the spoon-shaped trigger 128, it presses it down with its weight and at the same time lifts the barrier element 126, as a result of which a ball which is initially stopped in the ball track section 125 is allowed free passage.

Figure 23 shows a module element 132 with a sling or catapult function. The function of this module element 132 is similar to that with reference to FIG Figure 21 described module element 118, but the module element 132 has only a one-sided lever 110 "with the cup 120. This lever 110" is biased by means of a rubber ring 134 for rotation in the clockwise direction. As soon as a ball rolling into the cup 120 has depressed the release rail 122, the lever 110 ″ rotates in a flash in a clockwise direction due to the elastic prestressing of the rubber ring 134 and catapults the ball located in the cup 120 to the right.

Figure 24 FIG. 12 shows a module element 136, the function of which is similar to that with reference to FIG Figure 20 described module element 102. In contrast to the module element 102, a rolling ball is not raised to a higher level by the trigger 112 'after overcoming the dead center position of the lever 110'", but the hammer-like weight 116" strikes the ball from behind and accelerates it Figure 24 to the right.

Figure 25 shows a module element 138 with a ball release function by another ball. Similar to the module element 102, a lever 140 is rotatably mounted, but this lever 140 has two arms 141, 142 arranged at right angles to one another. A first arm 141 is arranged above a discharge ramp 143 of the module element 138 and has a circular opening, the diameter of which corresponds to the diameter of a ball used. In this way, as shown, a ball can be held by the first arm 141 at the upper end of the down ramp 143. A second, in Figure 25 Arm 142 of lever 140 directed vertically downward carries a trigger 144. A ball rolling into module element 138 hits trigger 144, whereby lever 140 rotates somewhat counterclockwise and thereby releases the ball held by first arm 141.

Figure 26 shows a module element 146 with a launch function for another bullet. A firing device 148 with a resiliently preloaded piston 150 is arranged on the module element 146. On the left and right of the launcher 148 there are two triggers 152 on the module element 146, which can be pressed down by the weight of a rolling ball in order to release the preloaded piston 150. A ball in front of the piston 150 is then shot into the subsequent ball track section.

Figure 27 shows a module element 154 with a three-way splitting function. Similar to that with reference to FIG Figure 16 The described module element 70 also has the module element 154 ball track sections with an overall Y-shaped course. However, the ball track section formed by the foot of the Y also extends over the entire module element 154, so that a ball rolling into the foot of the Y can be passed on in three different directions. This is done by means of two switch elements 156, 157 arranged on the right and left of the central ball track, each having a long guide arm 158, 158 'and a short control arm 159, 159' which, as shown, are angled to one another are arranged. The rotatable switch elements 156, 157 are in Figure 27 reproduced in a position that results when a first ball has already left the module element 154 through the ball track exit at the bottom right. The next succeeding ball is now, as shown, directed into the ball track exit of the module element 154 located at the top left, and then sets the switch element 156 in a position which releases the central passage.

Figure 28 shows a module element 160 with a bell function. For this purpose, a bell 162 is arranged on the module element 160 such that the edge of the bell cap projects into a ball track section 162, which is formed on the upper side 14 of the module element 160. A ball passing the ball track section 162 strikes the bell 162, so that a bell sound is heard.

Figure 29 shows a module element 164 with a roundabout function. For this purpose, a circularly spherical track section 165 is formed on the module element 164 and is connected to two exits 166, 167. A ball entering the circular ball track section 165 through an exit 166 is thus guided in a circle and leaves the module element 164 through the other exit 167.

Figure 30 shows a module element 168 on which a looping ball track section 170 is formed.

Figure 31 shows a module element 172 with a bridge function. For this purpose, the module element 172 is provided on its upper side 14 with a ball track section 173 which extends in a straight line over the entire module element and also has a ball track section 174 which crosses the ball track section 173 like a bridge.

Figure 32 shows a module element 176 with a checkered flag function. For this purpose, a target flag 178 spanning the module element 176 in a bridge-like manner is rotatably mounted on both sides of a target funnel 179, at the lowest point of which there is a trigger 180. If a ball rolls into the target funnel 179, it presses the trigger 180 downward with its weight, as a result of which the rotatably mounted target flag 178 comes out of it Figure 32 shown position is pivoted up to indicate that a ball has reached the target.

Figure 33 shows a module element 182 with a so-called splash function. The function of this module element 182 corresponds to the function of with reference to FIG Figure 13d described functional insert 62 "'.

Figure 34 shows a module element 184 with a so-called robber ladder function. A first ball track section 185 is formed on the module element 184 and ends below a ball track section 186 spanning the ball track section 185 in a bridge-like manner. In the bridge-like ball track section 186, just above the ball track section 185, there is a circular hole 187 in which a ball crossing the bridge-like ball track section 186 normally gets caught. However, if there is a ball at the end of the ball track section 185, it fills the hole 187 to such an extent that a ball crossing the bridge-like ball track section 186 can continue to roll. Alternatively, a ball rolling into the ball track section 185, if a ball is already in the hole 187, means that this ball is "freed" from the ball rolling into the ball section 185 and can continue to roll.

Figure 35 shows a module element 188 with a so-called avalanche function. To implement this function, a funnel 190 is attached to the module element 188 with an outlet 192, which leads to an output of the module element 188. Two inputs of the module element 188 are each provided with a trigger 194, which can be pressed down by the weight of a ball rolling in. A lock (not shown) arranged in the outlet 192 is unlocked by pressing the trigger 194 down, so that all the balls located in the funnel 190 fall down and roll through the outlet 192 into the subsequent ball track.

Figure 36 shows a module element 196 with a collection and forwarding function. For this purpose, the module element 196 is provided with a rotatable cup 198 which is mounted in the center Figure 36 balls from a higher level of the ball track can fall from the left. As soon as a certain number of balls, for example three balls, have fallen into the cup 198, the cup 198 overcomes its dead center position and tilts to the other side, as a result of which the balls collected in it are released into the adjacent ball track section located at a lower level.

Figure 37 shows a module element 200 with an impulse function. For this purpose, a longitudinally extending rod 202 is arranged on the module element 200, which extends beyond the module element 200 in both directions and extends into adjacent ball track sections. If one end of the rod 202 is struck by a ball, its momentum propagates through the rod 202 to its opposite end and can be transmitted to a ball in contact with the opposite end.

Figure 38 shows the module element 200 Figure 37 in a modified configuration. Again, momentum transfer from one ball to another ball takes place through rod 202, but this momentum transfer is in accordance with Figure 38 achieved by rotating rod 202.

Claims (22)

1. A modular ball track system, comprising

   - a plurality of module elements (12; 12'), all of which, in plan view, have the exterior shape of the same regular hexagon and each of which has

   -- an upper face (14),

   -- a lower face (16) opposite the upper face, and

   -- a number of lateral surfaces (18) corresponding to its number of corners, wherein each module element (12; 12') forms on its upper face (14) at least one section (20, 22) of a ball track, which section passes through a lateral surface (18) of the module element,
   and wherein a plug base (24) protrudes from each module element (12; 12') on its lower face (16),

   - a base plate (32) having a plurality of regularly arranged recesses (34) for receiving in each case one plug base (24), wherein the plurality of recesses (34) are arranged on the base plate (32) in a grid and the grid dimension (s) of the grid corresponds to the incircle diameter of the regular hexagon forming the exterior shape of the module elements, and wherein module elements (12; 12') fitted into recesses (34) of the base plate (32) that are located immediately adjacent to one another lie flush against one another with in each case one lateral surface (18).
2. A modular ball track system, comprising

   - a plurality of module elements, all of which, in plan view, have the exterior shape of the same regular hexagon and each of which has

   -- an upper face (14),

   -- a lower face (16) opposite the upper face, and

   -- a number of lateral surfaces (18) corresponding to its number of corners, wherein each module element forms on its upper face (14) at least one section (20, 22) of a ball track, which section passes through a lateral surface (18) of the module element,
   and wherein each module element has on its lower face (16) a recess for receiving a plug base,

   - a base plate having a plurality of regularly arranged plug bases for cooperating with in each case one recess, wherein the plurality of plug bases are arranged on the base plate in a grid and the grid dimension (s) of the grid corresponds to the incircle diameter of the regular hexagon forming the exterior shape of the module elements, and wherein module elements fitted onto plug bases of the base plate that are located immediately adjacent to one another lie flush against one another with in each case one lateral surface (18).
3. The ball track system as claimed in claim 1 or 2,
   wherein the form of each plug base (24) and the form of each recess (34) for receiving in each case one plug base (24) allow two module elements (12; 12') arranged adjacent to one another to be fitted into or onto the base plate only in a position in which the module elements (12; 12') lie flush against one another with in each case one lateral surface (18).
4. The ball track system as claimed in claim 3,
   wherein the form of each plug base (24) and the form of each recess (34) for receiving in each case one plug base (24) has the same shape as the regular hexagon forming the exterior shape of the module elements, but with a smaller incircle diameter (d).
5. The ball track system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4,
   wherein it further comprises connecting rails (42) forming sections of the ball track for bridging a gap between in each case two module elements (12; 12') which are not arranged immediately adjacent to one another.
6. The ball track system as claimed in claim 5,
   wherein each connecting rail (42) has two rods (44) arranged parallel to one another which form the section of the ball track, which rods are fixed to one another by a plurality of cross-members (46) extending beneath the ball track transversely to the rods and have free ends (48).
7. The ball track system as claimed in claim 6,
   wherein the free ends (48) of the rods (44) are bent downwards in the manner of a hook.
8. The ball track system as claimed in claim 6 or 7,
   wherein a cross-member (46) is arranged close to each of the free ends (48) of the rods (44) and is extended upwards on both sides of the ball track to form guards (52).
9. The ball track system as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 8,
   wherein each rod (44) is provided close to its free end on its upper side with a ramp-like elevation (54).
10. The ball track system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims,
    wherein each module element (12; 12'), immediately adjacent to the or each point at which a section (20, 22) of the ball track formed on its upper face passes through a lateral surface (18) of the module element, has a pair of hooking openings (50) for connecting rails (42) let into the ball track on both sides.
11. The ball track system as claimed in claim 10,
    wherein the hooking openings (50) serve to receive connecting rails (42) having rods (44) as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 9.
12. The ball track system as claimed in claim 10 or 11,
    wherein the hooking openings (50) allow the connecting rails (42) a predetermined degree (x) of movement in a longitudinal direction of the ball track.
13. The ball track system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims,
    wherein it further comprises column elements (56) of a predetermined height, wherein each column element either

    - has on its lower face a plug base (24') corresponding to the plug base (24) of the module elements (12; 12') and on its upper face a recess (34') corresponding to the recesses (34) in the base plate (32) for receiving in each case one plug base (24), or

    - has on its lower face a recess corresponding to the recess of the module elements and on its upper face a plug base corresponding to the plug bases of the base plate.
14. The ball track system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims,
    wherein it further comprises at least one intermediate plate (58), wherein the intermediate plate (58) either

    - has a plurality of regularly arranged recesses (34") for receiving in each case one plug base (24, 24'), which recesses correspond in shape and arrangement to the recesses (34) of the base plate (32) for receiving in each case one plug base (24), wherein each recess (34") of the intermediate plate (58) is provided on its lower face with a plug base (24") corresponding to the plug base (24) of the module elements (12; 12'),
    or

    - has a plurality of regularly arranged plug bases which correspond in shape and arrangement to the plug bases of the base plate for cooperating with in each case one recess, wherein each plug base of the intermediate plate is provided on its lower face with a recess corresponding to the recess of the module elements.
15. The ball track system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims,
    wherein the base plate (32) is formed of a plurality of base plate segments (36) which can be hooked together in the base plate plane.
16. The ball track system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims,
    wherein it comprises a plurality of module elements (12) on the upper face (14) of which there are formed a first curved section (20) of a ball track and a second curved section (22) of a ball track, wherein the first section (20) of the ball track has a more pronounced curve than the second section (22) of the ball track.
17. The ball track system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims,
    wherein it comprises at least one module element (12") having a central opening (60) which communicates with the at least one section (20) of the ball track formed on the upper face (14) of the module element and receives a functional insert which is associated with the at least one section (20) of the ball track.
18. The ball track system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims,
    wherein it comprises module elements (70, 80, 86, 94, 102, 118, 124, 132, 136, 138, 146, 154, 160, 164, 168, 172, 176, 182, 184, 188, 196, 200) in which the at least one section of the ball track contains an action element, such as, for example, points, a loop, a ball lifter, a Gauss cannon, a catapult, a funnel.
19. The ball track system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims,
    wherein it comprises balls of the same size and a different weight.
20. The ball track system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims,
    wherein it comprises balls having different magnetic properties.
21. The ball track system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims,
    wherein it comprises balls having an integrated RFID chip.
22. The ball track system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims,
    wherein either

    - the regular arrangement of the plurality of recesses (34) in the base plate (32) for receiving in each case one plug base (24)
    or

    - the plurality of regularly arranged plug bases of the base plate for cooperating with in each case one recess corresponds to a honeycomb structure.

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