US20140374992A1

US20140374992A1 - Target for a projectile tossing game

Info

Publication number: US20140374992A1
Application number: US14/100,267
Authority: US
Inventors: Emily Reile; Sage C. Rider; Julie Roche; Annie Yiling Wang; Dustin Szwed; Daniel Mehling
Original assignee: Target Brands Inc
Current assignee: Target Brands Inc
Priority date: 2013-06-23
Filing date: 2013-12-09
Publication date: 2014-12-25

Abstract

A target for a tossing game includes a first primary wall defining a first aperture therethrough, a second primary wall defining a second aperture therethrough, and two sidewalls each extending between the first primary wall and the second primary wall on opposing longitudinal edges of the first primary wall and the second primary wall. The two sidewalls each define converging longitudinal edges, with at least one of the converging longitudinal edges tapered toward the other of the converging longitudinal edges. A first sidewall of the two sidewalls includes an interior panel and an exterior panel, the interior panel is adjacent to and extends from an outer edge of the first primary wall, the exterior panel is adjacent to and extends from an outer edge of the second primary wall over the interior panel, and the target is formed of a single planar piece of material.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a non-provisional application of and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/838,330, filed Jun. 23, 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Beanbag and other projectile tossing games have been in existence for many years providing amusement for countless individuals. The general object of such games is to pitch or toss a projectile, such as a small fabric bean-filled bag, dart, weighted stick, etc. at a target positioned a distance away from the player tossing the projectile. Generally, the target includes one or more desired areas where persons attempt to land their projectiles to score the most points. For example, in one tossing game, the target includes an inclined planar surface with a hole near a rear or higher end of the inclined planar surface. Players attempt to toss bean-filled bags, e.g., via an underhand throw, through the hole to score a maximum number of points per bean-filled bag. Bean-filled bags landing on the inclined planar surface and not moving through the hole may also be awarded points, but generally fewer points than bean-filled bags landing in the hole. Points are scored accordingly, with players from different teams alternating turns as appropriate, until one of the teams reaches a target number of points previously designated as being a winning number of points within the confines of the particular scoring rules for the game.
In other such games, points may be awarded for landing projectiles on different portions of the target, at different proximities to a particular target or portion thereof, in different ones of a plurality of holes in a target, etc. The different games and/or scoring methods for each of the different games presented by a target provide different overall effects, therefore, providing different amusing aspects to players via a single target.

SUMMARY

A target for a tossing game includes a first primary wall defining a first aperture therethrough, a second primary wall defining a second aperture therethrough, and two sidewalls each extending between the first primary wall and the second primary wall on opposing longitudinal edges of the first primary wall and the second primary wall. The two sidewalls each define converging longitudinal edges, with at least one of the converging longitudinal edges tapered toward the other of the converging longitudinal edges. A first sidewall of the two sidewalls includes an interior panel and an exterior panel, the interior panel is adjacent to and extends from an outer edge of the first primary wall, the exterior panel is adjacent to and extends from an outer edge of the second primary wall over the interior panel, and the target is formed of a single planar piece of material. Other tossing game targets, assemblies, and associated methods are also described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will be described with respect to the figures, in which like reference numerals denote like elements, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a top, front perspective view illustration of a tossing game target, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a bottom, front perspective view illustration of the tossing game target of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a front view illustration of the tossing game target of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a rear view illustration of the tossing game target of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a right side view illustration of the tossing game target of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a left side view illustration of the tossing game target of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a top view illustration of the tossing game target of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a bottom view illustration of the tossing game target of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a top view illustration of the tossing game target of FIG. 1 in an unfolded position, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a top, front perspective view illustration of the tossing game target of FIG. 1 in a partially assembled position, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is an exploded, front perspective view illustration of a game assembly including the tossing game target of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is front view illustration of an unfolded box of the game assembly of FIG. 11, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a front view illustration of a stored-value card of the game assembly of FIG. 11, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a rear view illustration of a stored-value card of the game assembly of FIG. 11, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart illustrating a method of encouraging purchase and facilitating use of the game assembly of FIG. 11, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a flow chart illustrating a method of using the game assembly of FIG. 11, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description of the invention provides example embodiments and is not intended to limit the invention or the application and uses of the invention. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background of the invention or the following detailed description of the invention.
This innovation provides a tossing game target including two opposing planar surfaces that can each be used as a target plane for a different tossing game. More specifically, in a first orientation, a first one of the two opposing planar surfaces is placed on the ground or other supporting surface such that a second one of the two opposing planar surfaces faces upwardly such that it can be used as a target for a tossing game. Subsequently, the tossing game target can be flipped placing the second one of the two opposing planar surfaces on the ground and using the first one of the two opposing planar surfaces to face upwardly for active use as a tossing game target. The two opposing planar surfaces include at least different demarcations or other features such that each of the two opposing planar surfaces presents a different look to the game and/or supports different scoring or playing rules than the other one of the two opposing planar surfaces.
To further support the flexibility of the tossing game target, in one embodiment, the tossing game target is formed of a single piece of paperboard, cardboard, or other foldable planar member such that the tossing game is collapsible for transportation and storage and/or is readily disposable and/or recyclable when one no longer wishes to keep the tossing game target. In one example, the tossing game target is miniature in size, for example, for desktop use rather than the more typical lawn or other larger scale use. In one embodiment, the tossing game target is provided with the associated projectiles such as bean-filled bags, or more specifically, in one example, miniature bean-filled bags.
In one example, the tossing game target is provided as part of a game assembly including two tossing game targets and a number of projectiles. In one instance, the game assembly additionally includes a stored-value product or other transaction product adapted for use as tender or other value toward purchases or use of goods and/or services at, for example, a retail store or website. The game assembly, thereby, provides the consumer and recipient with financial functionality in combination with amusement functionality, which is particularly desirable in choosing a stored-value card for gifting to an end recipient other than the initial consumer.
Turning to the figures, FIGS. 1-8 illustrate various views of one embodiment of a tossing game target 10 including a first primary panel or wall 12, a second primary panel or wall 14 opposite the first primary wall 12, a first sidewall 16, and a second sidewall 18 opposite the first sidewall 16. In one embodiment, each of first primary wall 12 and second primary wall 14 is substantially planar. More particularly, first primary wall 12 and second primary wall 14 are each located in a different one of two converging planes such that first primary wall 12 and second primary wall 14 are positioned nearer each other at a front end of tossing game target 10 than at a rear end thereof. In one example, each of first primary wall 12 and second primary wall 14 includes at least one aperture 24 and 26, respectively, acting as a primary target area on the respective one of first primary wall 12 and second primary wall 14. In one example, one or both of first primary wall 12 and second primary wall 14 includes a plurality of apertures providing a plurality of additional targets for use during game play.
First sidewall 16 extends between first primary wall 12 and second primary wall 14, and second sidewall 18 extends between first primary wall 12 and second primary wall 14 opposite first sidewall 16. Each of first sidewall 16 and second sidewall 18 extend in planes substantially perpendicular to each of first primary wall 12 and second primary wall 14. First sidewall 16 and second sidewall 18 each are substantially triangular in shape increasing in height from a front to a back thereof to provide inclination to first primary wall 12 and/or second primary wall 14 depending upon which surface is placed on the support surface (not shown).
As illustrated, in one embodiment, tossing game target 10 includes a front panel or wall 20 and a rear panel or wall 22 opposite to, and in one example, extending substantially parallel to, each other. Front wall 20 caps a front of tossing game target 10 covering an opening, for instance, a rectangular opening, created by front edges of each of first primary wall 12, second primary wall 14, first sidewall 16, and second sidewall 18. Similarly, rear wall 22 caps a rear of tossing game target 10 covering an opening, for instance, a rectangular opening, created by rear edges of each of first primary wall 12, second primary wall 14, first sidewall 16, and second sidewall 18. Rear wall 22 has a greater height than front wall 20. In one example, indicia 28 is included on at least some if not all of first primary wall 12, second primary wall 14, first sidewall 16, second sidewall 18, front wall 20 and rear wall 22. In one embodiment, indicia 28 on first primary wall 12 and second primary wall 14 includes demarcations further emphasizing the goal of the game to toss projectiles through an aperture 24 or 26, scoring rules, etc. as will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this application.
In one example, each tossing game target 10 is formed from a single planar sheet of material, such as a foldable paperboard, cardboard, or similar material. Such an unfolded tossing game target 10 is illustrated in FIG. 9, according to one embodiment. Other particular layouts are also contemplated. As illustrated in FIG. 9 with reference to FIGS. 1 and 10, in one embodiment, second sidewall 18 is formed of an exterior panel 18A overlapping and an interior panel 18B. Exterior panel 18A is placed to the farthest left when viewing the unfolded exterior surface 30 of tossing game target 10 per FIG. 9 and extends from a free longitudinal edge 40 laterally to a first longitudinal fold line 42. First primary wall 12 extends from an opposite side of first longitudinal fold line 42 as compared to exterior panel 18A to second longitudinal fold line 44. First sidewall 16 extends from an opposite side of second longitudinal fold line 44 compared to first primary wall 12 to third longitudinal fold line 46. Second primary wall 14 extends from an opposite side of third longitudinal fold line 42 as compared to first sidewall 16 to fourth longitudinal fold line 48. Finally, interior panel 18B of second sidewall 18 extends from an opposite side of the fourth longitudinal fold line 48 as compared to second primary wall 14 to a free longitudinal edge 50. In one embodiment, each of free edges 40 and 50 and fold lines 42, 44, 46, and 48 longitudinally extends, for example, with a substantially linear orientation, along an entire depth (i.e., front to back dimension) of each of the respective bordering ones of exterior panel 18A, first primary wall 12, first sidewall 16, second primary wall 14, and interior panel 18B.
In one example, tossing game target 10 includes a sidewall-coupling tab 52 extending from a middle portion of free edge 40 away from exterior panel 18A with a fold line 54 being defined linearly between exterior panel 18A and sidewall-coupling tab 52. A corresponding slit 56 is defined substantially along fourth fold line 48 for selectively receiving sidewall-coupling tab 52 upon assembly of tossing game target 10. In one example, an outwardly extending lip 58 is formed by second primary wall 14 to extend over slit 56 providing protection of slit 56 and generally decreasing tearing of tossing game target 10 adjacent slit 56.
A frontmost edge of first primary wall 12 is defined by a first lateral fold line 60 extending across a substantial entirety of a width of first primary wall 12. Front wall 20 extends outwardly from a side of first lateral fold line 60 opposite first primary wall 12 to second lateral fold line 62. In one example, front wall 20 and second lateral fold line 62 each have substantially identical widths. Tossing game target 10 further includes a front coupling flange 64 extending away from second lateral fold line 62 in a direction opposite front wall 20 and terminating at a free edge 66 opposite second lateral fold line 62. Front wall 20 and front coupling flange 64 collectively define free opposing side edges 68, which, in one example, are substantially linear and curve inwardly slightly as they near free edge 66.
A rearmost edge of first primary wall 12 is defined by a third lateral fold line 80 extending across a substantial entirety of a width of first primary wall 12. Rear wall 22 extends outwardly from a side of third lateral fold line 80 opposite first primary wall 12 to third lateral fold line 82. In one example, rear wall 22 and third lateral fold line 82 each have substantially identical widths. Tossing game target 10 further includes a rear coupling flange 84 extending away from fourth lateral fold line 82 in a direction opposite rear wall 22 and terminating at a free edge 86 opposite fourth lateral fold line 82. Rear wall 22 and rear coupling flange 84 collectively define free opposing side edges 88, which, in one example, are substantially linear curving inwardly slightly as they near free edge 86. In one embodiment, inwardly extending slits 90 are formed from each of opposing side edges 88 along fourth lateral fold line 82 to facilitate folding of tossing game target 10.
In one example, sidewall tabs 100 each extend from lateral fold lines 102, which define the rearmost edges of each of exterior panel 18A of second sidewall 18 and first sidewall 16. For instance, sidewall tabs 100 each extend from a lateral fold line 102 with a width at least initially substantially equal to a width of the respective one of lateral fold lines 102, away from the respective one of exterior panel 18A and first sidewall 16 to free edge 104. Sidewall tabs 100 extend laterally between a free outer facing edge 108 and interior slit 106 defined between sidewall tabs 100 and opposing sides of rear wall 22. Each of sidewall tabs 100 generally is at it largest width nearest a lateral fold line 102 and, in one example, tapers slightly as it nears free end 104. In one example, each of exterior panel 18A and first sidewall 16 defines a free edge 110 opposite a corresponding lateral fold line 102. Each free edge 110 has a width as laid out in FIG. 9 (a height in the finally assembled position of FIGS. 1-8) that less than a width of a corresponding portion of lateral fold line 102 immediately adjacent the respective one of exterior panel 18A and first sidewall 16.
Second primary wall 14 extends from third longitudinal fold line 46 defining a front, free edge 120 and an opposing rear, free edge 122 each being substantially linear in one embodiment. In one example, free edge 120 extends from an end of free edge 110 angled forwardly therefrom. Front, free edge 120 and rear, free edge 122 are substantially parallel, in one embodiment. Interior panel 18B of second sidewall 18 extends between fourth longitudinal fold line 48 and free longitudinal edge 50 defining opposing free lateral edges, that is, a front, free edge 124 and an opposing rear, free edge 126. In one example, front, free edge 124 continues along the substantially linear line begun by front, free edge 120 while rear, free edge 126 is angled from rear, free edge 122 of second primary wall 14 toward front, free edge 124. In other embodiments front, free edge 124 and rear, free edge 126 are substantially parallel.
Tossing game target 10 is assembled, for example, by an end consumer preparing tossing game target 10 for use as part of a game. In one embodiment, tossing game target 10 is folded along fold lines 42, 44, 46, 48, 60, 62, 80, 82, and 102 generally as illustrated in FIG. 10 to transform the flat form of tossing game target 10 into the three dimensional form of FIGS. 1-8. For example, first planar wall 12 is placed facing downwardly, and first sidewall 16 and exterior panel 18A of second sidewall 18 are folded upwardly about fold lines 44, and 42, respectively. Side tabs 100 are each folded inwardly toward one another, for example, to extend substantially perpendicularly relative to the corresponding sidewall 16 or exterior panel 18A each borders. Front wall 20 is folded upwardly about fold line 60 and front coupling flange 64 is folded rearwardly about fold line 62. Rear wall 22 is folded upwardly about fold line 80 to extend immediately adjacent over and substantially parallel to each of side tabs 100, for example, to be substantially parallel to front wall 20. Rear coupling flange 84 is folded forwardly about fold line 84 to extend toward front wall 20.
Interior panel 18B of second sidewall 18 is folded downwardly about fold line 48 to extend away from second planar wall 14, and second planar wall 14 is folded about fold line 46 to be positioned opposite first planar wall 12, spaced from each other via sidewalls 16 and 18. Folding second planar wall 14 also moves interior panel 18B in place just behind exterior panel 18A. In one embodiment, exterior panel 18A and interior panel 18B are substantially identical in size and shape, and exterior panel 18A substantially entirely covers interior panel 18B. Upon this assembly step, front coupling flange 64, rear coupling flange 84, and sidewall tabs 100 are all configured to fit substantially within the chamber of the three dimensional form of tossing game target 10, forming corners or transitions were desired between other planar portions of tossing game target 10 and/or otherwise facilitating positioning various planar portions of tossing game target 10 relative to one another. In one embodiment, rear coupling flange 84 and front coupling flange 64 are each positioned to extend immediately adjacent second planar wall 14 in a frictional manner generally maintaining rear wall 22 and front wall 20 in position covering rear and front ends of the chamber formed within tossing game target 10.
Sidewall-coupling tab 52 is folded relative to exterior panel 18A of second sidewall 18 about fold line 54 and is pushed through slit 56 between first sidewall 16 and second planar wall 14 to lock or otherwise hold tossing game target 10 in the folded position illustrated in FIGS. 1-8. In one embodiment, the locking of sidewall-coupling tab 52 is supplemented or replaced by other coupling techniques such as a piece of adhesive tape, staple, rivet, complimentary fold, etc. The resultant three-dimensional tossing game target 10 is configured to withstand hits via bean-filled bags 144 (FIG. 11) or other projectiles. While assembly of tossing game target 10 is described in one sequence of folding steps, upon reading this application, those of skill in the art will understand that other sequences of the folding steps will produce substantially similar results. In one embodiment, in the folded configuration, each of front coupling flange 64 and rear coupling flange 84 extends substantially in parallel with and/or in direct contact with an interior surface of second planar wall 14. When folded, tossing game target is one example of means for receiving projectiles, first planar wall 12 and second planar wall 14 are examples of means for providing a projectile target, and/or sidewalls 16 and 18 are examples of means for spacing first planar wall 12 from second planar wall 14. Exterior panel 18A and interior panel 18B are examples of first and second side means for spacing first planar wall 12 from second planar wall 14. Sidewall-coupling tab 52 is one example of means for securing exterior panel 18A over interior panel 18B, and slit 56 is one example of means for receiving sidewall-coupling tab 52.
FIG. 11 illustrates one example of a game assembly 140 including one or more tossing game targets 10, for example, two tossing game targets 10, a box or package 142, and bean-filled bags 144 or other suitable projectiles. Package 142 selectively houses tossing game targets 10 and bean-filled bags 144 or other suitable projectiles. In one example, bean-filled bags 144 are first housed in a separate pouch or bag 146, such as a transparent bag, before being placed in package 142. Bean-filled bags 144 are sized and shaped for use with tossing game targets 10 and, in one example, include two or more bean-filled bags of one color or pattern and two of more bean-filled bags of another color or pattern. This visual differentiation of the bags permits for easy identification of which of the bean-filled bags 144 correspond to which of two or more individuals or teams playing the associated game. In one embodiment, both a width and a length of each bean-filled bag 144 is smaller than an inside diameter of each of apertures 24 and 26 formed by one or more targets 10. In one example, a transaction product 148, e.g., as a stored-value card (i.e., debit card, reloadable value card, gift card, etc.) is also supported by package 142 and forms part of game assembly 140.
In one example, package 142 is formed as a three-dimensional box from a single substantially planar blank of a foldable material as illustrated with reference to FIG. 11 in view of FIG. 12 having a first surface 168 and a second surface (generally not shown) opposite first surface 168. In one embodiment, package 142 includes a front panel 160, a first side panel 162, a second side panel 164, and a rear panel 166, where rear panel 166 is collectively defined by a first member 166A of rear panel 166 and a second member 166B at least partially overlapping first member 166A upon assembly. In one example, front panel 160, first side panel 162, and second side panel 164 each have substantially identical lengths or longitudinal dimensions. In one example, one or both of first member 166A and second member 166B of rear panel 166 have a length greater than the length of each of front panel 160, first side panel 162, and second side panel 164.
Front panel 160 is bordered on opposing longitudinal edges by fold lines 170 and 172. First side panel 162 borders and extends laterally away from fold line 170 to a longitudinal fold line 174. First member 166A of rear panel 166 borders and extends laterally away from longitudinal fold line 174 to a free edge 178. Second side panel 164 borders and extends laterally away from fold line 172 to a longitudinal fold line 176. Second member 166B of rear panel 166 borders and extends laterally away from fold longitudinal line 176 to a free edge 180. In one embodiment, each of longitudinal fold lines 170, 172, 174, and 176 and free edges 178 and 180 extend substantially in parallel with one another. Each of front panel 160, first side panel 162, and second side panel 164 longitudinally extends between and borders each of opposing lateral fold lines 182 and 184, which, in one example, are substantially linear, extend substantially parallel to one another, and/or extend substantially perpendicularly to each of fold lines 170 and 172.
A first or top closure flap 186 extends longitudinally away from a portion of fold line 182 extending between fold lines 170 and 172 to a laterally extending fold line 188. A top closure flange 190 extends longitudinally away from laterally extending fold line 188 to a top free edge 192. A free side edge 194 substantially continuously extends along each opposing lateral side of top closure flap 186 and top closure flange 190 from lateral fold line 182 to top free edge 192. In one example, free side edges 194 are substantially linear and/or taper toward each other as they near top free edge 192.
A second or bottom closure flap 196 extends longitudinally away from a portion of fold line 184 extending between fold lines 170 and 172 to a laterally extending fold line 198. A bottom closure flange 200 extends longitudinally away from laterally extending fold line 188 to a bottom free edge 202. A free side edge 204 substantially continuously extends along each opposing lateral side of bottom closure flap 196 and bottom closure flange 200 from lateral fold line 184 to bottom free edge 202. In one example, free side edges 204 are substantially linear and/or taper toward each other as they near bottom free edge 202.
A topside flap 210 extends upwardly, longitudinally away from a portion of lateral fold line 182 extending between fold lines 170 and 174 and to a top free edge 212. In one embodiment, top free edge 212 is positioned a distance away from fold line 182 substantially identical to a distance fold line 188 is positioned relative to fold line 182. Topside flap 210 laterally extends between opposing side edges 214 and 216. In one example, side edge 216 is positioned immediately adjacent to free side edge 194. Another topside flap 210 extends upwardly, longitudinally away from a portion of lateral fold line 182 extending between fold lines 172 and 176 and similarly includes a top free edge 212 and opposing side edges 214 and 216 in a mirror image to topside flap 210 extending between fold lines 170 and 174.
A bottom side flap 220 extends downwardly and longitudinally away from a portion of lateral fold line 184 extending between fold lines 170 and 174 and to a bottom free end 222. In one embodiment, bottom free edge 222 is positioned a distance away from fold line 184 substantially identical to a distance fold line 198 is positioned relative to fold line 184. Bottom side flap 220 laterally extends between opposing side edges 224 and 226. In one example, side edge 226 is positioned immediately adjacent to free side edge 204. Another bottom side flap 210 extends downwardly, longitudinally away from a portion of lateral fold line 184 extending between fold lines 172 and 176 and similarly includes a bottom free end 222 and opposing side edges 224 and 226 in a substantially mirror image to bottom side flap 210 extending between fold lines 170 and 174.
In one embodiment, first and second members 166A and 166B of rear panel 166 are substantially identical in size and shape and substantially mirror one another about a longitudinal center line (not shown) through front panel 160. Each of first and second members 166A and 166B longitudinally extend between a top free edge 230 and a bottom free edge 232. In one example, top free edge 230 extends substantially parallel to lateral fold line 182 and/or above top free edge 186. The portions of each of first and second members 166A and 166B of rear panel 166 extending above lateral fold line 182 defines a top extension or top protruding tab 234. Where package 142 is configured to be hung from a support rod or similar support (not shown), tab 234 includes an aperture 236, for example, centered on tab 234, sized and shaped to selectively receive a suitable support rod during display.
In one example, bottom free edge 232 extends substantially parallel to top lateral fold line 184 and/or below bottom lateral fold line 184. The portions of each of first and second members 166A and 166B of rear panel 166 extending below lateral fold line 184 defines a bottom extension or bottom depending tab 240. In one example, bottom depending tab 240 defines a window or aperture 242 sized and shaped to be at least partially larger than account identifier 284 of transaction card 148, which will be described in additional detail below. In one embodiment, bottom depending tab 240 of one or both of first and second members 166A and 166B of rear panel 166 additionally includes redemption indicia 244 indicating, for example, that transaction product 148 is redeemable for the purchase of goods and/or services and that, upon use, a value of the purchased goods and/or services will be deducted from the financial account or record linked to transaction product 148. In one embodiment, redemption indicia 244 include phrases such as “<NAME OF STORE> GiftCard” and “This GiftCard is redeemable for merchandise or services at any of our stores or at our web site,” and/or provides help or phone line information in case of a lost, stolen or damaged stored-value card, etc.
Package 142, particularly, for example, first surface 168, also includes indicia 260. In one example, indicia 260 are decorative relating to a particular occasion, such as a wedding, new baby, graduation, holiday, season, brand identifier, media format identifier or other visual design to promote purchase of transaction product 148. In one example, indicia 260 visually correspond with indicia 28 of tossing game targets 10 and/or visually depict portions of tossing game targets 10. Indicia 260 may include brand indicia identifying a brand associated with transaction product 148 such as identifying a product brand, a store brand, department, etc. In one example, brand indicia identify a store or location configured to accept transaction product as payment toward a purchase of goods and/or services. Collectively, indicia 260 presents an aesthetically pleasing package 142 including information describing the contents thereof and/or instructions for use in a manner configured to induce consumers to purchase game assembly 140.
Package 142 is assembled primarily, and in some examples, entirely, via folding and use of an adhesive and/or other suitable fastening mechanisms or agents. More particularly, package 142 is folded rearwardly relative to front panel 160 about fold lines 170 and 172, then, first member 166A of rear panel is folded about fold line 174 to extend behind and spaced from front panel 166. Subsequently, second member 166B of rear panel 166 is folded about fold line 176 toward first member 166A of rear panel and is adhered to first surface 168 of first member 166A. In one example, second member 166B substantially covers an entirety of a portion of first surface 168 defined by first member 166A.
In one example, bottom side flaps 220 are each folded rearwardly about fold line 184 to extend substantially perpendicularly relative to front panel 160. Bottom closure flange 200 is folded rearwardly about fold line 198 at or near the same time bottom closure flap 196 is folded rearwardly about fold line 184 until bottom closure flap 196 extends substantially perpendicularly to front panel 160 substantially covering a lower end of a cavity 262, which is formed by package 142 between front panel 160, side panels 162 and 164, and rear panel 166. Bottom closure flange 200 tucks into cavity 262 adjacent rear panel 166 and a rear edge of bottom side flaps 220 in a manner selectively holding bottom closure flap 196 in place over an end opening of cavity 262. In one example, adhesive tape pieces (not shown) are applied to extend partial over a lower portion of one of side panels 162 and 164 and partially over bottom closure flap 196.
Tossing game targets 10 and bean-filled bags 144 are placed in cavity 262 for storage, transport, and display, in one example, as is generally illustrated in FIG. 11. In one example, topside flaps 210 are each folded rearwardly about fold line 182 to extend substantially perpendicularly relative to front panel 160. Top closure flange 190 is folded rearwardly about fold line 188 at or near the same time top closure flap 186 is folded rearwardly about fold line 182 until top closure flap 186 extends substantially perpendicularly to front panel 160 substantially covering an upper end of cavity 262. Top closure flange 190 tucks into cavity 262 adjacent rear panel 166 and rear edges of topside flaps 210 in a manner selectively holding top closure flap 186 in place over the upper opening of cavity 262. In one example, adhesive tape pieces (not shown) are applied to extend partially over an upper portion of one of side panels 162 and 164 and partially over top closure flap 186. Following at least the above-described operations, the bean-filled bags 144 and tossing game targets 10 are secured within package 142. Other sequences of forming package 142 are also contemplated, such as first folding top closure flap 186 and bottom closure flap 196 and subsequently folding bottom closure flange 200 and top closure flap 190 to close cavity 262.
Upon closure of top and bottom openings of cavity 262, in one example, top protruding tabs 234 of first and second members 166A and 166B of rear panel 166 each extend above top opening of cavity and top closure flap 186 to form the topmost portion of package 142. Accordingly, a retail support member (not shown) is able to receive package 142 via aperture 236, such that game assembly 140 hangs substantially below any such retail support member.
In one embodiment, first member 166A of rear panel 166 receives and supports transaction product 148, e.g., via adhesive, such that transaction product 148 extends over aperture 242 collectively formed by first member 166A and second member 166B of rear panel 166. Transaction product 148 is adhered or otherwise coupled with package 142 before or after folding package 142 to define cavity 262 and/or before or after filling cavity 262 with tossing game targets 10 and/or bean-filled bags 144 as determined due to various manufacturing variables and processes. Referring to FIGS. 11, 13, and 14, for example, transaction product 148 is substantially planar including a front, substantially planar surface 280 and a rear, substantially planar surface 282 opposite first substantially planar surface 280 and adhered to rear panel 166, in one example. Other shapes, sizes, and configurations of transaction product 148 are also contemplated.
In one embodiment, transaction product 148 includes at least one account activation area or account identifier 284, such as a bar code, magnetic strip, a smart chip or other electronic device, a radio frequency identification (RFID) device or other suitable identifier readily machine readable by a point-of-sale terminal or other account access station or kiosk. Account identifier 284 indicates an account or record to which transaction product 148 is linked. The account or record of the monetary or other balance on transaction product 148 optionally is maintained on a remote database accessible by corresponding point-of-sale terminals, other electronic or manual record-keeping system or, in the case of “smart” cards for example, on a chip or other electronic device(s) on transaction product 148 itself. Accordingly, by scanning account identifier 284, e.g., through apertures 242, the account or record linked to transaction product 148 is identified and can subsequently be activated, have amounts debited therefrom, and/or have amounts added thereto.
In one embodiment, account identifier 284 includes a character string or code (e.g., a number and/or letter string) configured to provide additional security to the user of transaction product 148 and/or configured to be read by a bearer of transaction product 148 to facilitate use of transaction product 148 for website or other purchases outside of brick-and-mortar type retail establishments. With the above in mind, account identifier 284 is one example of means for linking transaction product 148 with an account or record, and scanning of account identifier 284 is one example of means for activating or loading value on transaction product 148. Transaction product 148 is one example of means for supporting account identifier 284.
In one embodiment, front, substantially planar surface 280 or other portions of transaction product 148 includes additional indicia such as informative and/or decorative indicia 286 and/or brand indicia. In one example, decorative indicia 286 relate to a particular occasion, such as a wedding, new baby, graduation, holiday, season, brand identifier, media format identifier, or other visual design to promote purchase of transaction product 148. In one example, decorative indicia 286 relate to decorative indicia 260 on packages 142. Brand indicia identify a brand associated with transaction product 148 such as identifying a product brand, a store brand, department, etc. In one example, brand indicia identify a store or location configured to accept transaction product 148 as payment toward a purchase of goods and/or services.
In one embodiment, redemption indicia 288 are included on transaction product 148, for example, on rear, substantially planar surface 282 of transaction product 148. Redemption indicia 288 indicate that transaction product 148 is redeemable for the purchase of goods and/or services and that, upon use, a value of the purchased goods and/or services will be deducted from the financial account or record linked to transaction product 148. In one embodiment, redemption indicia 288 include phrases such as “<NAME OF STORE> GiftCard” and “This GiftCard is redeemable for merchandise or services at any of our stores or at our web site,” and/or provides help or phone line information in case of a lost, stolen or damaged stored-value card, etc. In one example, redemption indicia 244 are substantially identical to redemption indicia 288.
Upon assembly, components of game assembly 140 function to both amuse consumers and/or recipients and to entice consumers to purchase game assembly 140. In particular, consumers are encouraged to purchase game assembly 140 due to its entertainment value in addition to its financial or other value based transactional functionality. While described as being packaged as part of game assembly 140 in one embodiment, in other embodiments, components of game assembly 140 are packaged and/or otherwise provided separately from one or more of the other components of game assembly 140.
FIG. 15 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method 330 of encouraging purchase and facilitating use of game assembly 140 by consumers and/or recipients. At 332, game assembly 140 is placed on or hung from a rack, shelf, or other similar device to display game assembly 140, and therefore, transaction product 148, for sale to potential consumers. In one embodiment, a depiction of game assembly 140 and/or game assembly 140 is additionally or alternatively placed on a website for viewing and purchase by potential consumers.
At 334, a consumer who has decided to purchase game assembly 140 presents game assembly 140 to a retail store employee, retail store kiosk, remote terminal, or other person or device to scan account identifier 284 using a point-of-sale terminal or other machine to access an account or record linked to account identifier 284. Notably, as used herein, a “purchase” of game assembly 140 does not require a fee or other dollar amount to be paid for game toss targets 140, bean-filled bags 142, transaction product 148 or associated components, but rather that transaction product 148 is being activated and funds placed in the associated account or record. In one example, purchase of game assembly 140 does require a fee to be paid to the retail store or setting. In particular, account identifier 284 is scanned or otherwise accessed, for example through access opening 190 of package 142 to activate game assembly 140, more particularly, transaction product 148 and the remote, database stored account or record linked thereto. Upon accessing the account or record, then, at 336, value is added to the account or record in the form of monetary value, points, minutes, etc. Thus, transaction product 148 is activated and loaded for future use toward a purchase or use of goods and/or services.
In one example, a predetermined value is associated with transaction product 148 (i.e., associated with the account or record linked to transaction product 148 via account identifier 284) prior to activation and display, but such predetermined value is not initially available for use toward the purchase or use of goods and/or services. In such an embodiment, at 334, transaction product 148 is activated to permit subsequent access to the predetermined value (e.g., subsequent loading on and debiting from the account or record) and no additional value is added during activation such that operation 306 may be eliminated.
Once transaction product 148 is activated and loaded, transaction product 148 can be used by the consumer or any other bearer of transaction product 148 to purchase goods and/or services at the affiliated retail setting (e.g., a retail store or website) or can be used in exchange for calling minutes, etc. In one embodiment, where transaction product 148 is displayed on a website at 332, then, at 334, transaction product 148 may be activated in any suitable method and may not require the physical scanning of account identifier 284 to be activated or to otherwise access the associated account or record such as at 336.
In one example, at 338, the retail store or other affiliated retail setting or website accepts transaction product 148, or more precisely, value in the account or record linked to transaction product 148 via account identifier 284, as payment toward the purchase of goods and/or services made by the current bearer of transaction product 148. In particular, the value currently loaded on transaction product 148 (i.e., stored or recorded in the account or record linked to account identifier 284) is applied toward the purchase of goods and/or services. At 340, additional value is optionally loaded on transaction product 148 at a point-of-sale terminal, kiosk or other area of the retail store or related setting using account identifier 284. Upon accepting transaction product 148 as payment at 338, the retail store or related setting can subsequently perform either operation 338 or operation 340 as requested by a current bearer of transaction product 148. Similarly, upon loading additional value on transaction product 148 at 340, the retail store or related setting can subsequently perform either operation 340 again or operation 338. In one example, the ability to accept transaction product 148 as payment for goods and/or services is limited by whether the account or record associated with transaction product 148 has any value stored or recorded therein at the time of attempted redemption indicia 244.
FIG. 16 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method 350 of using game assembly 140. At 352, a potential consumer of game assembly 140, which is displayed in a retail store or viewed on a website, decides to and does purchase game assembly 140 from the retail store or website. Upon purchasing game assembly 140, a retail store employee, a retail store kiosk or game assembly 140 other person or device scans account identifier 284 (FIG. 14) through opening 190 of package 142 or otherwise reads or accesses account identifier 284. Upon accessing account identifier 284, the account or record linked to account identifier 284 is accessed and activated to load value onto transaction product 148 (i.e., load value to the account or record associated with transaction product 148). In one embodiment, such as where game assembly 140 is purchased at 352 via a website, actual scanning or other mechanical detection of account identifier 284 may be eliminated or supplemented with manual keystroke entry of account identifier 284, etc.
At 354, the consumer optionally gives game assembly 140 to a recipient, such as a graduate, relative, friend, expectant parents, one having a recent or impending birthday, a couple having a recent or impending anniversary, etc. In one embodiment, a plurality of game assembly 140 are purchased and given to partygoers, such as at a birthday party, etc. as party favors or gifts. As an alternative, the consumer can keep game assembly 140 for his or her own use thereby eliminating operation 354.
At 356, the consumer, recipient, or other current bearer of game assembly 140 interacts with the non-transactional features thereof for amusement. More specifically, the bearer of game assembly 140 removes tossing game targets 10 and bean-filled bags 144 from package 142, folds at least one of tossing game targets 10 into a use position, and tosses bean-filled bags 144, preferably removed from bag 146, at tossing game target 10. Additionally or alternatively, folded tossing game targets 10 are flipped over revealing second primary wall 14 for continued, but slightly modified game play. The above-described and similar use, as will be apparent to those of skill in the art after reading this application, amuses the bearer and any other observers of game assembly 140.
At 358, the consumer or recipient redeems transaction product 148 for goods and/or services from the retail store or website. At 360, the consumer or recipient of transaction product 148 optionally adds value to transaction product 148, more particularly, to the account or record associated with account identifier 284 included therewith, at the retail store or over the Internet (i.e., via the website). Upon interacting with the non-transaction features of transaction product 148 at 356, redeeming transaction product 148 at 358 or adding value to transaction product 148 at 360, the consumer or recipient of game assembly 140 subsequently can perform any of operations 356, 358, and 360 as desired. In one embodiment, the ability of the consumer or recipient to repeat redeeming transaction product 148 at 358 is limited by whether the account or record linked with transaction product 148 has any remaining value stored or recorded therein at the time of attempted redemption.
Although described above as occurring at a single retail store or website, in one embodiment, purchasing game assembly 140 at 352, redeeming transaction product 148 at 358, and adding value to transaction product 148 at 360 can each be performed at any one of a number of stores adapted to accept transaction product 148 or over the Internet. In one example, a number of stores are each part of a chain or are similarly branded stores. In one example, a number of stores include at least one website and/or at least one conventional brick and mortar store.
Transaction products come in many forms, according to embodiments of the invention. Stored-value cards, like other transaction products, can be “re-charged” or “re-loaded” at the direction of the original consumer, the gift recipient or a third party. The term “loading on” or “loaded on” herein should be interpreted to include adding to the balance of an account or record associated with a transaction card. The balance associated with the transaction card declines as the card is used, encouraging repeat visits or use. The card remains in the user's purse or wallet, serving as an advertisement or a reminder to revisit the associated merchant. Stored-value cards according to embodiments of the invention provide a number of advantages to both the consumer and the merchant. Other transaction products according to embodiments of the invention include loyalty cards, merchandise return cards, electronic gift certificates, calling cards, employee cards, frequency cards, prepaid cards and other types of cards associated with or representing purchasing power, monetary value, etc.
Although the invention has been described with respect to particular embodiments, such embodiments are meant for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered to limit the invention. Various alternatives and changes will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this application. Other modifications within the scope of the invention and its various embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A target for a tossing game comprising:

a first primary wall defining a first aperture therethrough;

a second primary wall defining a second aperture therethrough;

two sidewalls each extending between the first primary wall and the second primary wall on opposing longitudinal edges of the first primary wall and the second primary wall;

wherein:

the two sidewalls each define converging longitudinal edges, with at least one of the converging longitudinal edges tapered toward the other of the converging longitudinal edges, and

a first sidewall of the two sidewalls includes an interior panel and an exterior panel,

the interior panel is adjacent to and extends from an outer edge of the first primary wall,

the exterior panel is adjacent to and extends from an outer edge of the second primary wall over the interior panel, and

the target is formed of a single planar piece of material.

2. The target of claim 1, wherein:

a slit is defined substantially between the interior panel and the first primary wall,

the exterior panel extends from the outer edge of the second primary wall to an opposite free edge, and

a tab extends from the opposite free edge of the exterior panel and is received by the slit to maintain the exterior panel in place over the interior panel.

3. The target of claim 1, wherein the interior panel and the exterior panel are substantially identical in size and shape.

4. The target of claim 1, wherein:

each of the first primary wall and the second primary wall presents a visually different tossing game than the other of the first primary wall and the second primary wall.

5. The target of claim 1, wherein:

when the first primary wall is set adjacent to and facing a lower support surface, the second primary wall faces upwardly and extends in an inclined plane relative to the lower support surface ready for tossing game play, and

when the second primary wall is set adjacent to and facing the lower support surface, the first primary wall faces upwardly and in an inclined plane relative to the lower support surface ready for tossing game play.

6. The target of claim 1, wherein a cavity is defined between the first primary wall, the second primary wall, and the two sidewalls, and the target further comprises:

a front wall extending from a frontmost edge of the first primary wall toward a frontmost edge of the second primary wall to substantially cover a front end of the cavity, and

a front coupling flange rearwardly extending from the front wall opposite the first primary wall, the front coupling flange being positioned substantially within the cavity immediately adjacent to and extending substantially in parallel to an interior surface of the second primary wall.

7. The target of claim 1, wherein a cavity is defined between the first primary wall, the second primary wall, and the two sidewalls, and the target further comprises:

a rear wall extending from a rearmost edge of the first primary wall toward a rearmost edge of the second primary wall to substantially cover a rear end of the cavity, and

a rear coupling flange forwardly extending from the front wall opposite the first primary wall, the rear coupling flange being positioned substantially within the cavity immediately adjacent an interior surface of the second primary wall.

8. The target of claim 7, further comprising a pair of sidewall tabs each extending from a rearmost edge of a different one of the two sidewalls within the cavity adjacent and interior surface of the rear wall.

9. The target of claim 7, further comprising:

a front wall extending from a frontmost edge of the first primary wall toward a frontmost edge of the second primary wall to substantially cover a front end of the cavity, the front wall extending substantially parallel to the rear wall, and

a front coupling flange rearwardly extending from the front wall opposite the first primary wall, the front coupling flange being positioned substantially within the cavity immediately adjacent an interior surface of the second primary wall.

10. The target of claim 9, further comprising a pair of sidewall tabs each extending from a rearmost edge of a different one of the two sidewalls within the cavity adjacent and interior surface of the rear wall.

11. The target of claim 1, wherein the target is formed entirely from a single piece of a planar material folded to define each of the first primary wall, the second primary wall, and the two sidewalls.

12. The target of claim 11, wherein the planar material is one of paperboard and cardboard.

13. The target of claim 1, wherein the first aperture is positioned differently relative to a remainder of the first panel wall than the second aperture is positioned relative to a remainder of the second panel wall, the first panel wall includes first indicia, and the second panel includes second indicia that is visually different than the first indicia.

14. The target of claim 1, wherein the first aperture and the second aperture are substantially identical in size and shape.

15. The target of claim 1, in combination with two or more projectiles, each of the two or more projectiles being sized to readily pass through each of the first aperture defined by the first primary wall and the second aperture defined by the second primary wall.

16. The combination of claim 15, wherein the two or more projectiles are each bean-filled bags.

17. The combination of claim 15, further comprising:

a package including a box portion, which defines an internal chamber therein, and bottom depending tab extending downwardly from the box portion, wherein the box portion defines a chamber, and the target and the two or more projectiles are enclosed in the chamber.

18. The combination of claim 17, further comprising:

a financial transaction card coupled to the bottom depending flap, wherein the financial transaction card includes an account identifier linking the stored-value card assembly to a financial account or record stored in a remote database.

19. A game assembly comprising:

means for receiving projectiles, the means for receiving being formed from a single piece of a substantially planar material and including:

means for providing a first projectile target, wherein a first hole is defined through a portion of the first projectile target,

means for providing a second projectile target facing in a direction opposite the means for providing the first projectile target, and

means for spacing the means for providing the first projectile target spaced from the means for providing the second projectile target such that the means for providing the first projectile target is closer to the means for providing the second projectile target near a front of the means for receiving projectiles as compared to a back of the means for receiving projectiles, wherein the means for spacing includes:

a first side means for spacing the means for providing the first projectile target spaced from the means for providing the second projectile target, the first side means extending from the means for providing the first projectile target toward the means for providing the second projectile target, and

a second side means for spacing the means for providing the first projectile target spaced from the means for providing the second projectile target, the second side means extending from the means for providing the second projectile target over and directly adjacent to the first side means.

20. The game assembly of claim 19, wherein the means for providing the second projectile target defines a second hole through a portion of the second projectile target.

21. The game assembly of claim 19, further comprising:

means for securing the second side means over the first side means, the means for securing extending from an edge of the second side means opposite the means for providing the second projectile target; and

means for receiving the means for securing, the means for receiving being positioned along a boundary line between the first side means and the means for providing the first projectile target.

22. A method of providing a projectile target, the method comprising:

providing a single piece of a planar material including a plurality of fold lines dividing the single piece into the following portions: a first planar wall, a second planar wall, a first sidewall, and a second sidewall opposite the first sidewall, wherein each of the first planar wall and the second planar wall present a different projectile target, and the different projectile targets each are presented for use in different projectile tossing games;

folding the single piece along the plurality of fold lines such that a cavity is formed between the first planar wall, the second planar wall, the first sidewall, and the second sidewall, the first planar wall and the second planar wall are positioned on opposite sides of the cavity, and the first sidewall and the second sidewall extend between opposite side edges of the first planar wall and the second planar wall as substantially triangular shapes such that the first planar wall and the second planar wall are maintained in converging planes; and

selectively securing the single piece in the folded configuration.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein providing the single piece of a planar material includes providing the single piece of the planar material in an enclosed chamber of a package along with one or more projectiles, the package supports a financial transaction card, and the financial transaction card includes an account identifier linking the stored-value card assembly to a financial account or record stored in a remote database, and the method further comprises: using a point-of-sale terminal to activate the financial account or record identified by reading the account identifier.

24. The method of claim 22, wherein:

the second sidewall is formed of a first panel and a second panel having substantially identical sizes and shapes,

when the single piece of the planar material is provided, the first panel and the second panel are positioned opposite one another, and

folding the single piece positions the first panel directly over the second panel.