US20170252631A1 - Flying disc target and method of playing therefor - Google Patents
Flying disc target and method of playing therefor Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20170252631A1 US20170252631A1 US15/061,114 US201615061114A US2017252631A1 US 20170252631 A1 US20170252631 A1 US 20170252631A1 US 201615061114 A US201615061114 A US 201615061114A US 2017252631 A1 US2017252631 A1 US 2017252631A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- goal
- coupled
- support beam
- flying disc
- hinge mechanism
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- Abandoned
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/06—Indicating or scoring devices for games or players, or for other sports activities
- A63B71/0619—Displays, user interfaces and indicating devices, specially adapted for sport equipment, e.g. display mounted on treadmills
- A63B71/0622—Visual, audio or audio-visual systems for entertaining, instructing or motivating the user
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/06—Indicating or scoring devices for games or players, or for other sports activities
- A63B71/0605—Decision makers and devices using detection means facilitating arbitration
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B63/00—Targets or goals for ball games
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B67/00—Sporting games or accessories therefor, not provided for in groups A63B1/00 - A63B65/00
- A63B67/06—Ring or disc tossing games, e.g. quoits; Throwing or tossing games, e.g. using balls; Games for manually rolling balls, e.g. marbles
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
- A63B24/0021—Tracking a path or terminating locations
- A63B2024/0028—Tracking the path of an object, e.g. a ball inside a soccer pitch
- A63B2024/0034—Tracking the path of an object, e.g. a ball inside a soccer pitch during flight
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/02—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00 for large-room or outdoor sporting games
- A63B71/023—Supports, e.g. poles
- A63B2071/024—Supports, e.g. poles with screws or pins in the earth
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2210/00—Space saving
- A63B2210/50—Size reducing arrangements for stowing or transport
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
- A63B2220/10—Positions
- A63B2220/13—Relative positions
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
- A63B2220/80—Special sensors, transducers or devices therefor
- A63B2220/802—Ultra-sound sensors
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
- A63B2220/80—Special sensors, transducers or devices therefor
- A63B2220/803—Motion sensors
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
- A63B2220/80—Special sensors, transducers or devices therefor
- A63B2220/805—Optical or opto-electronic sensors
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
- A63B2220/80—Special sensors, transducers or devices therefor
- A63B2220/89—Field sensors, e.g. radar systems
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2225/00—Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
- A63B2225/74—Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment with powered illuminating means, e.g. lights
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/06—Indicating or scoring devices for games or players, or for other sports activities
- A63B71/0619—Displays, user interfaces and indicating devices, specially adapted for sport equipment, e.g. display mounted on treadmills
- A63B71/0669—Score-keepers or score display devices
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to a flying disc target and method of playing the same and, more particularly, to a flying disc target having sensors for detecting whether the flying disc has traveled through a predefined target area and a scoring mechanism for indicating the number of times the flying disc has traveled through a predefined target area and method of playing the same.
- Flying discs may be defined as disc-shaped gliding toys or sporting items. Flying discs are generally made of plastic and range from around 8 to 10 inches in diameter. Some flying disc may be formed with a lip extending downward along a perimeter of the flying disc. In general, flying disc may be used recreationally and competitively for throwing and catching.
- Flying disc games have become a popular form of entertainment.
- disc golf is a sporting activity rapidly gaining in popularity.
- Disc golf is similar to that of conventional golf but instead of hitting a golf ball with a club to direct the golf ball towards a given hole, a disc golf participant throws a flying disc at a target that catches or entraps the disc.
- a plurality of targets are arranged in an open playing area for a disc golf game.
- the playing area for a disc golf game may include a predetermined number of disc golf targets arranged numerically within the playing area, with each target assigned a level of difficulty or par.
- a typical disc golf target is an assembly that preferably includes a stand having an upper end supporting a basket, and a plurality of loosely hanging chains disposed above the basket.
- the chains are functionally arranged to effectively catch a flying disc by absorbing the disc's kinetic energy, with the disc thereafter dropping into the basket.
- Disc golf target assemblies are typically stationary, with a lower end of the stand typically terminating in a base, such as a concrete pad. Thus, most disc golf target cannot be moved.
- disc golf targets There are portable disc golf targets. However, these disc golf targets are heavy and bulky. Having to manually carry or transport the disc golf target assembly from one location to another can be cumbersome or physically demanding due to their size and weight.
- a flying disc target has a base.
- a sensor goal defining a designated area is removably coupled to the base.
- a sensing circuit is coupled to the sensor goal. The sensing circuit monitors and records when a flying disc flies through the designated area defined by the sensor goal.
- a flying disc target has a base plate.
- a collar extends up from a central area of the base plate.
- a sensor goal defining a designated area is removably coupled to the base.
- the sensor goal has a support beam that is removably positioned within the collar.
- a sensing circuit is coupled to the sensor goal to monitor and record when a flying disc flies through the designated area defined by the sensor goal.
- a flying disc target has a base plate.
- a plurality of leg members extend out and away from the base plate and are in a same horizontal plane as the base plate.
- a collar extends up from a central area of the base plate.
- the collar comprises a block and a channel formed within the block.
- a sensor goal defining a designated area is removably positioned within the collar.
- the sensor goal has a support beam having a geometrical configuration to be removably secure within the channel.
- An upper goal post is coupled to a top area of the support beam.
- a lower goal post is coupled to a bottom area of the support beam.
- a support beam hinge mechanism, an upper hinge mechanism coupled to a top area of the support beam and a lower hinge mechanism coupled to a bottom area of the support beam are provided.
- the support beam comprises a first support beam member coupled to a first side of the support beam hinge mechanism and a second support beam member coupled to a second side of the support beam hinge mechanism.
- the upper goal post comprises a first upper goal post member coupled to a first side of the upper hinge mechanism and a second upper goal post member coupled to a second side of the upper hinge mechanism.
- the lower goal post comprises a first lower goal post member coupled to a first side of the lower hinge mechanism and a second lower goal post member coupled to a second side of the lower hinge mechanism.
- a sensing circuit is coupled to the sensor goal to monitor and record when a flying disc flies through the designated area defined by the sensor goal.
- the sensing circuit has a plurality of sensing devices coupled to the sensing goal and defining the designated area.
- a processor is coupled to the plurality of sensing devices to monitor the sensing devices and record when at least one of the plurality of sensing devices indicates that the flying disc flies through a designated area defined by the plurality of sensing devices.
- a scoring device is coupled to the processor.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a flying disc target, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a front view of the flying disc target of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 3 is a magnified perspective view of a lower section of the flying disc target of FIG. 1 showing a hinge mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 4 is a magnified perspective view of an upper section of the flying disc target of FIG. 1 showing a hinge mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the flying disc target of FIG. 1 folded disassembled, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a sensing circuit used in the flying disc target of FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 7 is a front view of the flying disc target in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- target 10 an embodiment of a flying disc target 10 (hereinafter target 10 ) may be shown.
- the target 10 may be easily and quickly assembled for use and disassembled for transportation and storage.
- the target 10 may be made of suitable materials which provide desirable characteristics to allow the apparatus to be repeatedly used with minimal damage, and allow for ease of storage and/or transportation.
- the target 10 may have a base 12 .
- the base 12 may be formed at a bottom section of the target 10 and may be used to support the target 10 in an upright position.
- the base 12 may be formed of a plate member 14 .
- the plate member 14 may be approximately planer in nature. While the plate 14 is shown as being circular in shape, the plate 14 may be configured in other shapes and/or sizes than that shown in FIGS. 1-5 .
- One or more leg member 16 may extend out and away from the plate member 14 .
- the leg members 16 may extend approximately in the same horizontal plane of the plate 14 .
- the leg members 16 may be used to provide additional stability for the base 12 to support the target 10 in an upright position.
- the base 12 may have one or more spikes 18 .
- the spikes 18 may extend downward from the base 12 .
- the spikes 18 may extend down from the plate 14 , the leg member 16 or both the plate 14 and leg members 16 .
- the spikes 18 may be used to secure the base 12 and thus the target 10 into the ground.
- a collar 20 maybe positioned in a middle area of the base 12 . As shown in FIGS. 1-5 , the collar 20 may be positioned in a middle area of the plate 14 . The collar 20 may extend upward from the plate 14 . The collar 20 may be used to removably secure a sensor goal 22 to the base 12 .
- the collar 20 may be formed of a block 24 .
- a channel 26 may be formed in a top area of the block 24 . The channel 26 may be designed to have the same geometrical configuration as the sensor goal 22 . This may allow the sensor goal 22 to be inserted into and held within the channel 26 .
- the block 24 may have one or more support members 28 .
- the support members 28 may be used to secure the block 24 to the plate 14 and to prevent movement of the block 24 .
- a locking device 30 may be formed on the block 24 .
- the locking device 30 may be used to secure the sensor goal 22 in the channel 26 and then release the sensor goal 22 when the target 10 is ready to be disassembled and moved.
- the locking device 30 maybe a locking screw or similar device.
- the sensor goal 22 may be used to monitor if a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by the sensor goal 22 . If a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by the sensor goal 22 , the sensor goal 22 indicates the event.
- the sensor goal 22 may have an “I” shape configuration.
- the sensor goal 22 may be made out of a sturdy and lightweight material such as aluminum, plastic or like materials. In accordance with one embodiment, the sensor goal 22 may be made out of a clear acrylic material.
- the sensor goal 22 may have a support beam 32 .
- the support beam 32 may be used to holding the sensor goal 22 in an upright position in the channel 26 .
- the support beam 32 may be oval in shape wherein the ends of the major axis may form a point instead of being rounded.
- the ends of the major axis may be the front and rear areas of the sensor goal 22 .
- the support beam 32 may have a hinge mechanism 33 .
- the hinge mechanism 33 may allow the support beam 32 to be disassembled into multiple sections.
- the hinge mechanism 33 may allow the support beam 32 to be disassembled into an upper section 32 A and a lower section 32 B.
- hinge mechanism 33 may allow the upper section 32 A to be folded downward onto the lower section 32 B.
- the upper section 32 A may be folded downward onto the lower section 32 B so that the upper section 32 A may be parallel to the lower section 32 B as shown in FIG. 5 .
- the sensor goal 22 may have an upper goal post 34 .
- the upper goal post 34 may be coupled to a top area of the support beam 32 .
- the upper goal post 34 may be coupled to a top area of the support beam 32 to form the upper bar of the “I” shape configuration of the sensor goal 22 .
- An upper hinge mechanism 36 may be coupled to the top area of the support beam 32 .
- the upper hinge mechanism 36 may allow the upper goal post 32 to be disassembled into a first upper goal post member 34 A and a second upper goal post member 34 B.
- the first upper goal post member 34 A may be coupled to a first side of the upper hinge mechanism 36 .
- the second upper goal post member 34 B may be coupled to a second side of the upper hinge mechanism 36 .
- the upper hinge mechanism 36 may allow the first upper goal post member 34 A and the second upper goal post member 34 B to be folded downward onto the support beam 32 .
- the upper hinge mechanism 36 may allow the first upper goal post member 34 A and the second upper goal post member 34 B to be folded downward onto the upper section 32 A of the support beam 32 so that the first upper goal post member 34 A and the second upper goal post member 34 B may be parallel to the upper section 32 A as may be shown in FIG. 5 .
- the sensor goal 22 may have a lower goal post 38 .
- the lower goal post 38 may be coupled to a bottom area of the support beam 32 .
- the lower goal post 38 may be coupled to the bottom area of the support beam 32 to form the lower bar of the “I” shape configuration of the sensor goal 22 .
- a lower hinge mechanism 40 may be coupled to the bottom area of the support beam 32 .
- the lower hinge mechanism 40 may allow the lower goal post 38 to be disassembled into a first lower goal post member 38 A and a second lower goal post member 38 B.
- the first lower goal post member 38 A may be coupled to a first side of the lower hinge mechanism 40 .
- the second lower goal post member 38 B may be coupled to a second side of the lower hinge mechanism 40 .
- the lower hinge mechanism 40 may allow the first lower goal post member 38 A and the second lower goal post member 38 B to be folded upward onto the support beam 32 .
- the lower hinge mechanism 40 may allow the first lower goal post member 38 A and the second lower goal post member 38 B to be folded upward onto the lower section 32 B of the support beam 32 so that the first lower goal post member 38 A and the second lower goal post member 38 B may be parallel to the lower section 32 B as may be shown in FIG. 5 .
- the lower hinge mechanism 40 may be moveable along the support beam 32 .
- the lower hinge mechanism 40 may allow the lower goal post 38 to move up and down along a length of the support beam 32 . This may allow the user to increase and/or decrease the distance between the upper goal post 34 and the lower goal post 38 .
- a locking mechanism 40 A may be formed on the lower hinge mechanism 40 . The locking mechanism 40 A may allow the user to secure the lower hinge mechanism 40 at a desired height on the support beam 32 .
- the sensor goal 22 may have a sensing circuit 42 .
- the sensing circuit 42 may be used to allow the sensor goal 22 to monitor if a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by the sensor goal 22 and indicates if a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by the sensor goal 22 .
- the designated area defined by the sensor goal 22 may be the area between the upper goal post 32 and the lower goal post 38 .
- the sensing circuit 42 may have a plurality of sensing devices 44 .
- the sensing devices 44 may be used to monitor if the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 .
- the sensing devices 44 may be motion detectors such as light beam sensors, passive infrared sensors, microwave sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and the like. The above is given as examples and should not be seen in a limiting manner. Other types of sensors may be used to detect if the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 .
- the sensing devices 44 may be positioned on the upper goal post 34 and/or the lower goal post 38 .
- the sensing devices 44 may be positioned to monitor a first side 10 A and/or a second side 10 B of the goal 10 .
- the sensing devices may be positioned on the first upper goal post member 34 A and the second upper goal post member 34 B and/or the first lower goal post member 38 A and the second lower goal post member 38 B.
- the sensing devices 44 may be positioned on the support beam 32 , the upper goal post 34 and/or the lower goal post 38 .
- the sensing devices 44 may be coupled to a processor 46 .
- the processor 46 may store a computer program or other programming instructions associated with a memory device 46 A to control the operation of sensing circuit 42 .
- the data structures and code within the software in which the present disclosure may be implemented, may be stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage.
- the non-transitory computer-readable storage may be any device or medium that may store code and/or data for use by a computer system.
- the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may include, but is not limited to, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, magnetic and optical storage devices such as disk drives, magnetic tape, CDs (compact discs), DVDs (digital versatile discs or digital video discs), or other media capable of storing code and/or data now known or later developed.
- the processor 46 may comprise various computing elements, such as integrated circuits, microcontrollers, microprocessors, programmable logic devices, etc, alone or in combination to perform the operations described herein.
- the processor 46 may be used to monitor the sensing devices 44 and may record when at least one of the sensing devices 44 indicates that the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 .
- the processor 46 may send a signal to a scoring device 48 .
- the scoring device 48 may indicated the number of times the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 .
- the scoring device 48 may have a first section 48 A and a second section 48 B.
- the first section 48 A may indicate the number of times the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 on a first side 10 A of the sensor goal 22 .
- the second section 48 B may indicate the number of times the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 on a second side 10 B of the sensor goal 22 .
- the scoring device 48 may be a numeric scoreboard, a plurality of light indicators, or like devices. In accordance with one embodiment, scoring device 48 may be dual sided. Thus, the users may see the number of times the flying disc has flown through the designated area from a front or back side of the target 10 .
- the sensing circuit 42 may have a power supply 50 .
- the power supply 50 may be coupled to the sensing devices 44 , the processor 46 , memory 46 A, and the scoring device 48 .
- the power supply 50 may be a battery, AC power supply, solar device, or similar power devices.
- the power supply 50 may be used to power the sensing circuit 42 .
- An activation/deactivation device 54 may be used to activate and deactivate the sensing circuit 42 .
- the sensing circuit 42 may have a plurality of lighting elements 52 .
- the lighting elements 52 may be coupled to the processor 46 and the power supply 50
- the lighting elements 52 may be Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), incandescent bulb, or similar lighting elements.
- the lighting elements 52 may be positioned on and/or in the support beam 32 , the upper goal post 34 and/or the lower goal post 38 .
- the lighting elements 52 may be illuminated so that the target 10 may be used at night or dim lighting conditions.
- the support beam 32 , the upper goal post 34 and/or the lower goal post 38 are made of a translucent material such as plastic
- the lighting elements 52 may be placed in the interior of the support beam 32 , the upper goal post 34 and/or the lower goal post 38 .
- the support beam 32 , the upper goal post 34 and/or the lower goal post 38 are made of an opaque material such as aluminum, the lighting elements 52 may be placed on the exterior of the support beam 32 , the upper goal post 34 and/or the lower goal post 38 .
- the lighting elements 52 may be used to indicate when the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 .
- the lighting elements 52 may flash/blink to indicate when the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 .
- the lighting elements 52 may illuminate at a first intensity level when the sensing circuit 42 is activated and at a second intensity level when the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 wherein the second intensity level may be brighter than the first intensity level.
- the target 10 may need to be assembled.
- the base 10 may be placed on the ground.
- a user may step on the plate member 14 and/or the leg members 16 to push the spikes 18 into the ground.
- the support beam 32 may be inserted into the collar 20 . If the support beam 32 has a hinge mechanism 33 hinge mechanism 33 , the lower section 32 B may be inserted into the collar 20 and the upper section 32 A may be moved upward and locked into position so that the support beam 32 is approximately vertical in nature.
- the first upper goal post member 34 A and the second upper goal post member 34 B may be raised upward via the upper hinge mechanism 36 .
- the first lower goal post member 38 A and the second lower goal post member 38 B may be moved downward via the lower hinge mechanism 40 .
- the user may adjust the lower hinge mechanism 40 to a desired position along the support beam 32 . By adjusting the height of the lower hinge mechanism 40 along a length of the support beam 32 , the user may increase and/or decrease the distance between the upper goal post 34 and the lower goal post 38 .
- the locking mechanism 40 A may be used to secure the lower hinge mechanism 40 at the desired height on the support beam 32 .
- the sensing circuit 42 may then be activated.
- the target 10 may be used with any number of individuals. For example, if two people are playing, each user may pick a side, a first individual may pick to throw a flying disc through the first side 10 A of the goal 10 , while a second individual may pick to throw a flying disc through the second side 10 B of the goal 10 . The first of the two individuals to throw their flying disc through their designated side of the goal 10 a predetermined number of times wins.
- the scoring device 48 may be used to indicate if the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 .
- the target 10 ′ may have a base 12 .
- the base 12 may be formed at a bottom section of the target 10 ′ and may be used to support the target 10 ′ in an upright position.
- the base 12 may be formed of a plate member 14 .
- the plate member 14 may be approximately planer in nature. While the plate 14 is shown as being circular in shape, the plate 14 may be configured in other shapes and/or sizes than that shown in FIG. 7 .
- One or more leg member 16 may extend out and away from the plate member 14 .
- the leg members 16 may extend in approximately the same horizontal plane of the plate 14 .
- the leg members 16 may be used to provide additional stability for the base 12 to support the target 10 ′ in an upright position.
- the base 12 may have one or more spikes 18 .
- the spikes 18 may extend downward from the base 12 .
- the spikes 18 may extend down from the plate 14 , the leg member 16 or both the plate 14 and leg members 16 .
- the spikes 18 may be used to secure the base 12 into the ground.
- a collar 20 maybe positioned in a middle area of the base 12 .
- the collar 20 may be positioned in a middle area of the plate 14 .
- the collar 20 may extend upward from the plate 14 .
- the collar 20 may be used to removably secure a sensor goal 22 to the base 12 .
- the collar 20 may be formed of a block 24 .
- a channel 26 may be formed in a top area of the block 24 .
- the channel 26 may be designed to have the same geometrical configuration as the sensor goal 22 . This may allow the sensor goal 22 to be inserted into and held within the channel 26 .
- the block 24 may have one or more support members 28 .
- the support members 28 may be used to secure the block 24 to the plate 14 and to prevent movement of the block 24 .
- a locking device 30 may be formed on the block 24 .
- the locking device 30 may be used to secure the sensor goal 22 in the channel 26 and then release the sensor goal 22 when the target 10 is ready to be disassembled and moved.
- the locking device 30 maybe a locking screw or similar device.
- the sensor goal 22 may be used to monitor if a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by the sensor goal 22 . If a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by the sensor goal 22 , the sensor goal 22 indicates the event.
- the sensor goal 22 may have a support beam 32 .
- the support bean 32 may be used to holding the sensor goal 22 in an upright position in the channel 26 .
- the support beam 32 may be oval in shape wherein the ends of the major axis may form a point instead of being rounded. The ends of the major axis may be the front and rear areas of the sensor goal 22 .
- the support beam 32 may have a hinge mechanism 33 hinge mechanism 33 .
- the hinge mechanism 33 may allow the support beam 32 to be disassembled into multiple sections.
- the hinge mechanism 33 may allow the support beam 32 to be disassembled into an upper section 32 A and a lower section 32 B.
- the hinge mechanism 33 may allow the upper section 32 A to be folded downward onto the lower section 32 B.
- the upper section 32 A may be folded downward onto the lower section 32 B so that the upper section 32 A may be parallel to the lower section 32 B as shown in FIG. 7 .
- the sensor goal 22 may have a sensing circuit 42 .
- the sensing circuit 42 may be used to allow the sensor goal 22 to monitor if a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by the sensor goal 22 and indicates if a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by the sensor goal 22 .
- the designated area defined by the sensor goal 22 may be the area to a first side 10 A of the support beam 32 and to a second side 10 B of the support bean 32 .
- the sensing circuit 42 may have a plurality of sensing devices 44 .
- the sensing devices 44 may be used to monitor if the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 .
- the sensing devices 44 may be motion detectors such as light beam sensors, passive infrared sensors, microwave sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and the like. The above is given as examples and should not be seen in a limiting manner. Other types of sensors may be used to detect if the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 .
- the sensing devices 44 may be positioned on the support beam 32 .
- the sensing devices 44 may be positioned on the upper section 32 A and the lower section 32 B of the support beam.
- the sensing devices 44 may be positioned of both the first side 33 A of the support beam 32 and the second side 33 B of the support bean 32 .
- the sensing devices 44 may be coupled to a processor 46 .
- the processor 46 may store a computer program or other programming instructions associated with a memory device 46 A to control the operation of sensing circuit 42 .
- the data structures and code within the software in which the present disclosure may be implemented, may be stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage.
- the non-transitory computer-readable storage may be any device or medium that may store code and/or data for use by a computer system.
- the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may include, but is not limited to, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, magnetic and optical storage devices such as disk drives, magnetic tape, CDs (compact discs), DVDs (digital versatile discs or digital video discs), or other media capable of storing code and/or data now known or later developed.
- the processor 46 may comprise various computing elements, such as integrated circuits, microcontrollers, microprocessors, programmable logic devices, etc, alone or in combination to perform the operations described herein.
- the processor 46 may be used to monitor the sensing devices 44 and may record when at least one of the sensing devices 44 indicates that the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 .
- the processor 46 may send a signal to a scoring device 48 .
- the scoring device 48 may indicated the number of times the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 .
- the scoring device 48 may have a first section 48 A and a second section 48 B.
- the first section 48 A may indicate the number of times the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 on a first side of the sensor goal 22 .
- the second section 48 B may indicate the number of times the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 on a second side of the sensor goal 22 .
- the scoring device 48 may be a numeric scoreboard, a plurality of light indicators, or like devices. In accordance with one embodiment, scoring device 48 may be dual sided. Thus, the users may see the number of times the flying disc has flown through the designated area from a front or back side of the target 10 .
- the sensing circuit 42 may have a power supply 50 .
- the power supply 50 may be coupled to the sensing devices 44 , the processor 46 , memory 46 A, and the scoring device 48 .
- the power supply 50 may be a battery, AC power supply, solar device, or similar power devices.
- the power supply 50 may be used to power the sensing circuit 42 .
- An activation/deactivation device 52 may be used to activate and deactivate the sensing circuit 42 .
- the target 10 ′ may be with any number of individuals. If two people are playing, each user may pick a side. For example, a first individual may pick to throw a flying disc through the first side 10 A′ of the goal 10 , while a second individual may pick to throw a flying disc through the second side 10 B′ of the goal 10 . The first of the two individuals to throw their flying disc through their designated side of the goal 10 a predetermined number of times wins.
- the scoring device 48 may be used to indicate if the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the sensing devices 44 .
Abstract
A flying disc target has a base. A sensor goal defining a designated area. A sensing circuit coupled to the sensor goal. The sensing circuit monitoring and recording when a flying disc flies through the designated area defined by the sensor goal.
Description
- This invention relates generally to a flying disc target and method of playing the same and, more particularly, to a flying disc target having sensors for detecting whether the flying disc has traveled through a predefined target area and a scoring mechanism for indicating the number of times the flying disc has traveled through a predefined target area and method of playing the same.
- Flying discs, commonly referred to as Frisbees®, may be defined as disc-shaped gliding toys or sporting items. Flying discs are generally made of plastic and range from around 8 to 10 inches in diameter. Some flying disc may be formed with a lip extending downward along a perimeter of the flying disc. In general, flying disc may be used recreationally and competitively for throwing and catching.
- Flying disc games have become a popular form of entertainment. For example, disc golf is a sporting activity rapidly gaining in popularity. Disc golf is similar to that of conventional golf but instead of hitting a golf ball with a club to direct the golf ball towards a given hole, a disc golf participant throws a flying disc at a target that catches or entraps the disc. Similar to having a number of holes arranged in an open playing area as in a traditional golf game, a plurality of targets are arranged in an open playing area for a disc golf game. The playing area for a disc golf game may include a predetermined number of disc golf targets arranged numerically within the playing area, with each target assigned a level of difficulty or par.
- A typical disc golf target is an assembly that preferably includes a stand having an upper end supporting a basket, and a plurality of loosely hanging chains disposed above the basket. The chains are functionally arranged to effectively catch a flying disc by absorbing the disc's kinetic energy, with the disc thereafter dropping into the basket. Disc golf target assemblies are typically stationary, with a lower end of the stand typically terminating in a base, such as a concrete pad. Thus, most disc golf target cannot be moved.
- There are portable disc golf targets. However, these disc golf targets are heavy and bulky. Having to manually carry or transport the disc golf target assembly from one location to another can be cumbersome or physically demanding due to their size and weight.
- Therefore, it would be desirable to provide a system and method that overcome the above identified concerns, as well as additional challenges which will become apparent from the disclosure set forth below
- In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a flying disc target is disclosed. The flying disc target has a base. A sensor goal defining a designated area is removably coupled to the base. A sensing circuit is coupled to the sensor goal. The sensing circuit monitors and records when a flying disc flies through the designated area defined by the sensor goal.
- In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a flying disc target is disclosed. The flying disc target has a base plate. A collar extends up from a central area of the base plate. A sensor goal defining a designated area is removably coupled to the base. The sensor goal has a support beam that is removably positioned within the collar. A sensing circuit is coupled to the sensor goal to monitor and record when a flying disc flies through the designated area defined by the sensor goal.
- In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a flying disc target is disclosed. The flying disc target has a base plate. A plurality of leg members extend out and away from the base plate and are in a same horizontal plane as the base plate. A collar extends up from a central area of the base plate. The collar comprises a block and a channel formed within the block. A sensor goal defining a designated area is removably positioned within the collar. The sensor goal has a support beam having a geometrical configuration to be removably secure within the channel. An upper goal post is coupled to a top area of the support beam. A lower goal post is coupled to a bottom area of the support beam. A support beam hinge mechanism, an upper hinge mechanism coupled to a top area of the support beam and a lower hinge mechanism coupled to a bottom area of the support beam are provided. The support beam comprises a first support beam member coupled to a first side of the support beam hinge mechanism and a second support beam member coupled to a second side of the support beam hinge mechanism. The upper goal post comprises a first upper goal post member coupled to a first side of the upper hinge mechanism and a second upper goal post member coupled to a second side of the upper hinge mechanism. The lower goal post comprises a first lower goal post member coupled to a first side of the lower hinge mechanism and a second lower goal post member coupled to a second side of the lower hinge mechanism. A sensing circuit is coupled to the sensor goal to monitor and record when a flying disc flies through the designated area defined by the sensor goal. The sensing circuit has a plurality of sensing devices coupled to the sensing goal and defining the designated area. A processor is coupled to the plurality of sensing devices to monitor the sensing devices and record when at least one of the plurality of sensing devices indicates that the flying disc flies through a designated area defined by the plurality of sensing devices. A scoring device is coupled to the processor.
- Embodiments of the disclosure will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a flying disc target, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a front view of the flying disc target ofFIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 3 is a magnified perspective view of a lower section of the flying disc target ofFIG. 1 showing a hinge mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 4 is a magnified perspective view of an upper section of the flying disc target ofFIG. 1 showing a hinge mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the flying disc target ofFIG. 1 folded disassembled, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a sensing circuit used in the flying disc target ofFIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and -
FIG. 7 is a front view of the flying disc target in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. - Common reference numerals are used throughout the drawings and detailed description to indicate like elements.
- Referring to
FIGS. 1-5 , an embodiment of a flying disc target 10 (hereinafter target 10) may be shown. Thetarget 10 may be easily and quickly assembled for use and disassembled for transportation and storage. Thetarget 10 may be made of suitable materials which provide desirable characteristics to allow the apparatus to be repeatedly used with minimal damage, and allow for ease of storage and/or transportation. - The
target 10 may have abase 12. Thebase 12 may be formed at a bottom section of thetarget 10 and may be used to support thetarget 10 in an upright position. In the present embodiment shows the base 12 may be formed of aplate member 14. Theplate member 14 may be approximately planer in nature. While theplate 14 is shown as being circular in shape, theplate 14 may be configured in other shapes and/or sizes than that shown inFIGS. 1-5 . One ormore leg member 16 may extend out and away from theplate member 14. Theleg members 16 may extend approximately in the same horizontal plane of theplate 14. Theleg members 16 may be used to provide additional stability for the base 12 to support thetarget 10 in an upright position. - The base 12 may have one or more spikes 18. The
spikes 18 may extend downward from thebase 12. Thespikes 18 may extend down from theplate 14, theleg member 16 or both theplate 14 andleg members 16. Thespikes 18 may be used to secure thebase 12 and thus thetarget 10 into the ground. - A
collar 20 maybe positioned in a middle area of thebase 12. As shown inFIGS. 1-5 , thecollar 20 may be positioned in a middle area of theplate 14. Thecollar 20 may extend upward from theplate 14. Thecollar 20 may be used to removably secure asensor goal 22 to thebase 12. In accordance with one embodiment, thecollar 20 may be formed of ablock 24. Achannel 26 may be formed in a top area of theblock 24. Thechannel 26 may be designed to have the same geometrical configuration as thesensor goal 22. This may allow thesensor goal 22 to be inserted into and held within thechannel 26. - The
block 24 may have one ormore support members 28. Thesupport members 28 may be used to secure theblock 24 to theplate 14 and to prevent movement of theblock 24. A lockingdevice 30 may be formed on theblock 24. The lockingdevice 30 may be used to secure thesensor goal 22 in thechannel 26 and then release thesensor goal 22 when thetarget 10 is ready to be disassembled and moved. The lockingdevice 30 maybe a locking screw or similar device. - The
sensor goal 22 may be used to monitor if a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by thesensor goal 22. If a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by thesensor goal 22, thesensor goal 22 indicates the event. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 1-5 , thesensor goal 22 may have an “I” shape configuration. Thesensor goal 22 may be made out of a sturdy and lightweight material such as aluminum, plastic or like materials. In accordance with one embodiment, thesensor goal 22 may be made out of a clear acrylic material. - The
sensor goal 22 may have asupport beam 32. Thesupport beam 32 may be used to holding thesensor goal 22 in an upright position in thechannel 26. In accordance with one embodiment, thesupport beam 32 may be oval in shape wherein the ends of the major axis may form a point instead of being rounded. The ends of the major axis may be the front and rear areas of thesensor goal 22. - The
support beam 32 may have ahinge mechanism 33. Thehinge mechanism 33 may allow thesupport beam 32 to be disassembled into multiple sections. In the present embodiment, thehinge mechanism 33 may allow thesupport beam 32 to be disassembled into anupper section 32A and alower section 32B. When disassembled,hinge mechanism 33 may allow theupper section 32A to be folded downward onto thelower section 32B. Thus, theupper section 32A may be folded downward onto thelower section 32B so that theupper section 32A may be parallel to thelower section 32B as shown inFIG. 5 . - The
sensor goal 22 may have anupper goal post 34. Theupper goal post 34 may be coupled to a top area of thesupport beam 32. Theupper goal post 34 may be coupled to a top area of thesupport beam 32 to form the upper bar of the “I” shape configuration of thesensor goal 22. Anupper hinge mechanism 36 may be coupled to the top area of thesupport beam 32. Theupper hinge mechanism 36 may allow theupper goal post 32 to be disassembled into a first uppergoal post member 34A and a second uppergoal post member 34B. The first uppergoal post member 34A may be coupled to a first side of theupper hinge mechanism 36. The second uppergoal post member 34B may be coupled to a second side of theupper hinge mechanism 36. Theupper hinge mechanism 36 may allow the first uppergoal post member 34A and the second uppergoal post member 34B to be folded downward onto thesupport beam 32. Thus, theupper hinge mechanism 36 may allow the first uppergoal post member 34A and the second uppergoal post member 34B to be folded downward onto theupper section 32A of thesupport beam 32 so that the first uppergoal post member 34A and the second uppergoal post member 34B may be parallel to theupper section 32A as may be shown inFIG. 5 . - The
sensor goal 22 may have alower goal post 38. Thelower goal post 38 may be coupled to a bottom area of thesupport beam 32. Thelower goal post 38 may be coupled to the bottom area of thesupport beam 32 to form the lower bar of the “I” shape configuration of thesensor goal 22. Alower hinge mechanism 40 may be coupled to the bottom area of thesupport beam 32. Thelower hinge mechanism 40 may allow thelower goal post 38 to be disassembled into a first lowergoal post member 38A and a second lowergoal post member 38B. The first lowergoal post member 38A may be coupled to a first side of thelower hinge mechanism 40. The second lowergoal post member 38B may be coupled to a second side of thelower hinge mechanism 40. Thelower hinge mechanism 40 may allow the first lowergoal post member 38A and the second lowergoal post member 38B to be folded upward onto thesupport beam 32. Thus, thelower hinge mechanism 40 may allow the first lowergoal post member 38A and the second lowergoal post member 38B to be folded upward onto thelower section 32B of thesupport beam 32 so that the first lowergoal post member 38A and the second lowergoal post member 38B may be parallel to thelower section 32B as may be shown inFIG. 5 . - In accordance with one embodiment, the
lower hinge mechanism 40 may be moveable along thesupport beam 32. Thus, thelower hinge mechanism 40 may allow thelower goal post 38 to move up and down along a length of thesupport beam 32. This may allow the user to increase and/or decrease the distance between theupper goal post 34 and thelower goal post 38. Alocking mechanism 40A may be formed on thelower hinge mechanism 40. Thelocking mechanism 40A may allow the user to secure thelower hinge mechanism 40 at a desired height on thesupport beam 32. - Referring to
FIGS. 1-6 , thesensor goal 22 may have asensing circuit 42. Thesensing circuit 42 may be used to allow thesensor goal 22 to monitor if a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by thesensor goal 22 and indicates if a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by thesensor goal 22. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 1-5 , the designated area defined by thesensor goal 22 may be the area between theupper goal post 32 and thelower goal post 38. - The
sensing circuit 42 may have a plurality ofsensing devices 44. Thesensing devices 44 may be used to monitor if the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44. Thesensing devices 44 may be motion detectors such as light beam sensors, passive infrared sensors, microwave sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and the like. The above is given as examples and should not be seen in a limiting manner. Other types of sensors may be used to detect if the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44. In the present embodiment, thesensing devices 44 may be positioned on theupper goal post 34 and/or thelower goal post 38. Thesensing devices 44 may be positioned to monitor a first side 10A and/or asecond side 10B of thegoal 10. Thus, the sensing devices may be positioned on the first uppergoal post member 34A and the second uppergoal post member 34B and/or the first lowergoal post member 38A and the second lowergoal post member 38B. In accordance with one embodiment, thesensing devices 44 may be positioned on thesupport beam 32, theupper goal post 34 and/or thelower goal post 38. Thesensing devices 44 may be coupled to aprocessor 46. Theprocessor 46 may store a computer program or other programming instructions associated with a memory device 46A to control the operation ofsensing circuit 42. The data structures and code within the software in which the present disclosure may be implemented, may be stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage. The non-transitory computer-readable storage may be any device or medium that may store code and/or data for use by a computer system. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may include, but is not limited to, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, magnetic and optical storage devices such as disk drives, magnetic tape, CDs (compact discs), DVDs (digital versatile discs or digital video discs), or other media capable of storing code and/or data now known or later developed. Theprocessor 46 may comprise various computing elements, such as integrated circuits, microcontrollers, microprocessors, programmable logic devices, etc, alone or in combination to perform the operations described herein. - The
processor 46 may be used to monitor thesensing devices 44 and may record when at least one of thesensing devices 44 indicates that the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44. When theprocessor 46 records that at least one of thesensing devices 44 indicates that the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44, theprocessor 46 may send a signal to ascoring device 48. The scoringdevice 48 may indicated the number of times the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44. In accordance with one embodiment, the scoringdevice 48 may have afirst section 48A and asecond section 48B. Thefirst section 48A may indicate the number of times the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44 on a first side 10A of thesensor goal 22. Thesecond section 48B may indicate the number of times the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44 on asecond side 10B of thesensor goal 22. The scoringdevice 48 may be a numeric scoreboard, a plurality of light indicators, or like devices. In accordance with one embodiment, scoringdevice 48 may be dual sided. Thus, the users may see the number of times the flying disc has flown through the designated area from a front or back side of thetarget 10. - The
sensing circuit 42 may have apower supply 50. Thepower supply 50 may be coupled to thesensing devices 44, theprocessor 46, memory 46A, and the scoringdevice 48. Thepower supply 50 may be a battery, AC power supply, solar device, or similar power devices. Thepower supply 50 may be used to power thesensing circuit 42. An activation/deactivation device 54 may be used to activate and deactivate thesensing circuit 42. - In accordance with one embodiment, the
sensing circuit 42 may have a plurality of lighting elements 52. The lighting elements 52 may be coupled to theprocessor 46 and thepower supply 50 The lighting elements 52 may be Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), incandescent bulb, or similar lighting elements. The lighting elements 52 may be positioned on and/or in thesupport beam 32, theupper goal post 34 and/or thelower goal post 38. The lighting elements 52 may be illuminated so that thetarget 10 may be used at night or dim lighting conditions. For example, if thesupport beam 32, theupper goal post 34 and/or thelower goal post 38 are made of a translucent material such as plastic, the lighting elements 52 may be placed in the interior of thesupport beam 32, theupper goal post 34 and/or thelower goal post 38. If thesupport beam 32, theupper goal post 34 and/or thelower goal post 38 are made of an opaque material such as aluminum, the lighting elements 52 may be placed on the exterior of thesupport beam 32, theupper goal post 34 and/or thelower goal post 38. - In accordance with one embodiment, the lighting elements 52 may be used to indicate when the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by the
sensing devices 44. For example, the lighting elements 52 may flash/blink to indicate when the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44. Alternatively, the lighting elements 52 may illuminate at a first intensity level when thesensing circuit 42 is activated and at a second intensity level when the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44 wherein the second intensity level may be brighter than the first intensity level. The above is given as examples and should not be seen in a limiting manner. - To use the
target 10, thetarget 10 may need to be assembled. The base 10 may be placed on the ground. A user may step on theplate member 14 and/or theleg members 16 to push thespikes 18 into the ground. Thesupport beam 32 may be inserted into thecollar 20. If thesupport beam 32 has ahinge mechanism 33hinge mechanism 33, thelower section 32B may be inserted into thecollar 20 and theupper section 32A may be moved upward and locked into position so that thesupport beam 32 is approximately vertical in nature. - The first upper
goal post member 34A and the second uppergoal post member 34B may be raised upward via theupper hinge mechanism 36. Similarly, the first lowergoal post member 38A and the second lowergoal post member 38B may be moved downward via thelower hinge mechanism 40. The user may adjust thelower hinge mechanism 40 to a desired position along thesupport beam 32. By adjusting the height of thelower hinge mechanism 40 along a length of thesupport beam 32, the user may increase and/or decrease the distance between theupper goal post 34 and thelower goal post 38. This may allow more skilled users to decrease the distance between theupper goal post 34 and thelower goal post 38 to make it more challenging to throw the flying disc between theupper goal post 34 and thelower goal post 38, while novice users may want to increase the distance between theupper goal post 34 and thelower goal post 38. Once the user has placed thelower hinge mechanism 40 at the desired position along thesupport beam 32, thelocking mechanism 40A may be used to secure thelower hinge mechanism 40 at the desired height on thesupport beam 32. Thesensing circuit 42 may then be activated. - The
target 10 may be used with any number of individuals. For example, if two people are playing, each user may pick a side, a first individual may pick to throw a flying disc through the first side 10A of thegoal 10, while a second individual may pick to throw a flying disc through thesecond side 10B of thegoal 10. The first of the two individuals to throw their flying disc through their designated side of the goal 10 a predetermined number of times wins. The scoringdevice 48 may be used to indicate if the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44. - Referring to
FIG. 7 , another embodiment of thetarget 10′ may be seen. Thetarget 10′ may have abase 12. The base 12 may be formed at a bottom section of thetarget 10′ and may be used to support thetarget 10′ in an upright position. In the present embodiment shows the base 12 may be formed of aplate member 14. Theplate member 14 may be approximately planer in nature. While theplate 14 is shown as being circular in shape, theplate 14 may be configured in other shapes and/or sizes than that shown inFIG. 7 . One ormore leg member 16 may extend out and away from theplate member 14. Theleg members 16 may extend in approximately the same horizontal plane of theplate 14. Theleg members 16 may be used to provide additional stability for the base 12 to support thetarget 10′ in an upright position. - The base 12 may have one or more spikes 18. The
spikes 18 may extend downward from thebase 12. Thespikes 18 may extend down from theplate 14, theleg member 16 or both theplate 14 andleg members 16. Thespikes 18 may be used to secure the base 12 into the ground. - A
collar 20 maybe positioned in a middle area of thebase 12. Thecollar 20 may be positioned in a middle area of theplate 14. Thecollar 20 may extend upward from theplate 14. Thecollar 20 may be used to removably secure asensor goal 22 to thebase 12. In accordance with one embodiment, thecollar 20 may be formed of ablock 24. Achannel 26 may be formed in a top area of theblock 24. Thechannel 26 may be designed to have the same geometrical configuration as thesensor goal 22. This may allow thesensor goal 22 to be inserted into and held within thechannel 26. - The
block 24 may have one ormore support members 28. Thesupport members 28 may be used to secure theblock 24 to theplate 14 and to prevent movement of theblock 24. A lockingdevice 30 may be formed on theblock 24. The lockingdevice 30 may be used to secure thesensor goal 22 in thechannel 26 and then release thesensor goal 22 when thetarget 10 is ready to be disassembled and moved. The lockingdevice 30 maybe a locking screw or similar device. - The
sensor goal 22 may be used to monitor if a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by thesensor goal 22. If a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by thesensor goal 22, thesensor goal 22 indicates the event. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 7 , thesensor goal 22 may have asupport beam 32. Thesupport bean 32 may be used to holding thesensor goal 22 in an upright position in thechannel 26. In accordance with one embodiment, thesupport beam 32 may be oval in shape wherein the ends of the major axis may form a point instead of being rounded. The ends of the major axis may be the front and rear areas of thesensor goal 22. - The
support beam 32 may have ahinge mechanism 33hinge mechanism 33. Thehinge mechanism 33 may allow thesupport beam 32 to be disassembled into multiple sections. In the present embodiment, thehinge mechanism 33 may allow thesupport beam 32 to be disassembled into anupper section 32A and alower section 32B. When disassembled, thehinge mechanism 33 may allow theupper section 32A to be folded downward onto thelower section 32B. Thus, theupper section 32A may be folded downward onto thelower section 32B so that theupper section 32A may be parallel to thelower section 32B as shown inFIG. 7 . - The
sensor goal 22 may have asensing circuit 42. Thesensing circuit 42 may be used to allow thesensor goal 22 to monitor if a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by thesensor goal 22 and indicates if a flying disc has flown through a designated area defined by thesensor goal 22. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 7 , the designated area defined by thesensor goal 22 may be the area to a first side 10A of thesupport beam 32 and to asecond side 10B of thesupport bean 32. - The
sensing circuit 42 may have a plurality ofsensing devices 44. Thesensing devices 44 may be used to monitor if the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44. Thesensing devices 44 may be motion detectors such as light beam sensors, passive infrared sensors, microwave sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and the like. The above is given as examples and should not be seen in a limiting manner. Other types of sensors may be used to detect if the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44. In the present embodiment, thesensing devices 44 may be positioned on thesupport beam 32. In the present embodiment, thesensing devices 44 may be positioned on theupper section 32A and thelower section 32B of the support beam. Thesensing devices 44 may be positioned of both the first side 33A of thesupport beam 32 and the second side 33B of thesupport bean 32. - The
sensing devices 44 may be coupled to aprocessor 46. Theprocessor 46 may store a computer program or other programming instructions associated with a memory device 46A to control the operation ofsensing circuit 42. The data structures and code within the software in which the present disclosure may be implemented, may be stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage. The non-transitory computer-readable storage may be any device or medium that may store code and/or data for use by a computer system. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may include, but is not limited to, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, magnetic and optical storage devices such as disk drives, magnetic tape, CDs (compact discs), DVDs (digital versatile discs or digital video discs), or other media capable of storing code and/or data now known or later developed. Theprocessor 46 may comprise various computing elements, such as integrated circuits, microcontrollers, microprocessors, programmable logic devices, etc, alone or in combination to perform the operations described herein. - The
processor 46 may be used to monitor thesensing devices 44 and may record when at least one of thesensing devices 44 indicates that the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44. When theprocessor 46 records that at least one of thesensing devices 44 indicates that the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44, theprocessor 46 may send a signal to ascoring device 48. The scoringdevice 48 may indicated the number of times the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44. In accordance with one embodiment, the scoringdevice 48 may have afirst section 48A and asecond section 48B. Thefirst section 48A may indicate the number of times the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44 on a first side of thesensor goal 22. Thesecond section 48B may indicate the number of times the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44 on a second side of thesensor goal 22. The scoringdevice 48 may be a numeric scoreboard, a plurality of light indicators, or like devices. In accordance with one embodiment, scoringdevice 48 may be dual sided. Thus, the users may see the number of times the flying disc has flown through the designated area from a front or back side of thetarget 10. - The
sensing circuit 42 may have apower supply 50. Thepower supply 50 may be coupled to thesensing devices 44, theprocessor 46, memory 46A, and the scoringdevice 48. Thepower supply 50 may be a battery, AC power supply, solar device, or similar power devices. Thepower supply 50 may be used to power thesensing circuit 42. An activation/deactivation device 52 may be used to activate and deactivate thesensing circuit 42. - The
target 10′ may be with any number of individuals. If two people are playing, each user may pick a side. For example, a first individual may pick to throw a flying disc through the first side 10A′ of thegoal 10, while a second individual may pick to throw a flying disc through thesecond side 10B′ of thegoal 10. The first of the two individuals to throw their flying disc through their designated side of the goal 10 a predetermined number of times wins. The scoringdevice 48 may be used to indicate if the flying disc has flown through a designated area monitored by thesensing devices 44. - While embodiments of the disclosure have been described in terms of various specific embodiments, it will be recognized and understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments of the disclosure may be practiced with modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims (20)
1. A flying disc target comprising:
a base;
a sensor goal defining a designated area removably coupled to the base; and
a sensing circuit coupled to the sensor goal monitoring and recording when a flying disc flies through the designated area defined by the sensor goal.
2. The flying disc target of claim 1 , wherein the base comprises:
a plate member; and
a collar extending up from a central area of the plate member removably securing the sensor goal to the base.
3. The flying disc target of claim 1 , wherein the collar comprises:
a block; and
a channel formed within the block and having a geometrical configuration to removably secure the sensor goal within the channel.
4. The flying disc target of claim 3 , wherein the collar comprises locking mechanism to removably secure the sensor goal within the channel.
5. The flying disc target of claim 1 , wherein the base comprises a plurality of leg members extending out and away from the plate member and in a same horizontal plane as the plate member.
6. The flying disc target of claim 5 , wherein the base comprises a plurality of spikes extending down from the plate member and at least one of the plurality of leg members.
7. The flying disc target of claim 1 , wherein the sensor goal comprises a support beam.
8. The flying disc target of claim 7 , wherein the sensor goal comprises a support beam hinge.
9. The flying disc target of claim 7 , wherein the sensor goal comprises:
an upper goal post coupled to a top area of the support beam; and
a lower goal post coupled to a bottom area of the support beam.
10. The flying disc target of claim 9 , wherein the sensor goal comprises:
an upper hinge mechanism coupled to a top area of the support beam; and
a lower hinge mechanism coupled to a bottom area of the support beam;
wherein the upper goal post comprises a first upper goal post member coupled to a first side of the upper hinge mechanism and a second upper goal post member coupled to a second side of the upper hinge mechanism;
wherein the lower goal post comprises a first lower goal post member coupled to a first side of the lower hinge mechanism and a second lower goal post member coupled to a second side of the lower hinge mechanism.
11. The flying disc target of claim 9 , wherein the sensing circuit comprises:
a plurality of sensing devices coupled to the sensing goal and defining the designated area;
a processor coupled to the plurality of sensing devices monitoring the sensing devices and recording when at least one of the plurality of sensing devices indicates that the flying disc flies through a designated area defined by the plurality of sensing devices.
12. The flying disc target of claim 9 , wherein the sensing circuit comprises a scoring device.
13. A flying disc target comprising:
a base plate;
a collar extending up from a central area of the base plate;
a sensor goal defining a designated area removably coupled to the base, the sensor goal having a support beam removably positioned within the collar; and
a sensing circuit coupled to the sensor goal monitoring and recording when a flying disc flies through the designated area defined by the sensor goal.
14. The flying disc target of claim 13 , wherein the collar comprises:
a block; and
a channel formed within the block and having a geometrical configuration to removably secure the support beam within the channel.
15. The flying disc target of claim 13 , comprising a plurality of leg members extending out and away from the base plate and in a same horizontal plane as the base plate.
16. The flying disc target of claim 15 , wherein the base comprises a plurality of spikes extending down from the base plate and at least one of the plurality of leg members.
17. The flying disc target of claim 12 , wherein the sensor goal comprises:
an upper goal post coupled to a top area of the support beam; and
a lower goal post coupled to a bottom area of the support beam.
18. The flying disc target of claim 12 , wherein the sensor goal comprises:
a support beam hinge mechanism;
an upper hinge mechanism coupled to a top area of the support beam; and
a lower hinge mechanism coupled to a bottom area of the support beam;
wherein the support beam comprises a first support beam member coupled to a first side of the support beam hinge mechanism and a second support beam member coupled to a second side of the support beam hinge mechanism;
wherein the upper goal post comprises a first upper goal post member coupled to a first side of the upper hinge mechanism and a second upper goal post member coupled to a second side of the upper hinge mechanism;
wherein the lower goal post comprises a first lower goal post member coupled to a first side of the lower hinge mechanism and a second lower goal post member coupled to a second side of the lower hinge mechanism.
19. The flying disc target of claim 12 , wherein the sensing circuit comprises:
a plurality of sensing devices coupled to the sensing goal and defining the designated area;
a processor coupled to the plurality of sensing devices monitoring the sensing devices and recording when at least one of the plurality of sensing devices indicates that the flying disc flies through a designated area defined by the plurality of sensing devices;
a scoring device coupled to the processor; and
a plurality of lighting elements coupled to the processor, wherein the plurality of lighting elements signal when at least one of the plurality of sensing devices indicates that the flying disc flies through a designated area defined by the plurality of sensing devices.
20. A flying disc target comprising:
a base plate;
a plurality of leg members extending out and away from the base plate and in a same horizontal plane as the base plate;
a collar extending up from a central area of the base plate, wherein the collar comprises:
a block; and
a channel formed within the block;
a sensor goal defining a designated area removably positioned within the collar, wherein the sensor goal comprises:
a support beam having a geometrical configuration to be removably secure within the channel;
an upper goal post coupled to a top area of the support beam;
a lower goal post coupled to a bottom area of the support beam;
a support beam hinge mechanism;
an upper hinge mechanism coupled to a top area of the support beam; and
a lower hinge mechanism coupled to a bottom area of the support beam;
wherein the support beam comprises a first support beam member coupled to a first side of the support beam hinge mechanism and a second support beam member coupled to a second side of the support beam hinge mechanism;
wherein the upper goal post comprises a first upper goal post member coupled to a first side of the upper hinge mechanism and a second upper goal post member coupled to a second side of the upper hinge mechanism;
wherein the lower goal post comprises a first lower goal post member coupled to a first side of the lower hinge mechanism and a second lower goal post member coupled to a second side of the lower hinge mechanism; and
a sensing circuit coupled to the sensor goal monitoring and recording when a flying disc flies through the designated area defined by the sensor goal, wherein the sensing circuit comprises:
a plurality of sensing devices coupled to the sensing goal and defining the designated area;
a processor coupled to the plurality of sensing devices monitoring the sensing devices and recording when at least one of the plurality of sensing devices indicates that the flying disc flies through a designated area defined by the plurality of sensing devices; and
a scoring device coupled to the processor.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/061,114 US20170252631A1 (en) | 2016-03-04 | 2016-03-04 | Flying disc target and method of playing therefor |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/061,114 US20170252631A1 (en) | 2016-03-04 | 2016-03-04 | Flying disc target and method of playing therefor |
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US20170252631A1 true US20170252631A1 (en) | 2017-09-07 |
Family
ID=59723158
Family Applications (1)
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US15/061,114 Abandoned US20170252631A1 (en) | 2016-03-04 | 2016-03-04 | Flying disc target and method of playing therefor |
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US (1) | US20170252631A1 (en) |
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US20220023731A1 (en) * | 2020-07-21 | 2022-01-27 | Mark Brown | Adaptable Disc Golf Basket |
US11500079B2 (en) * | 2019-02-01 | 2022-11-15 | Autel Intelligent Technology Corp., Ltd. | Calibration system and calibration bracket |
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US2103428A (en) * | 1936-07-16 | 1937-12-28 | Cecil C Lutes | Game apparatus |
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US20050137035A1 (en) * | 2003-12-19 | 2005-06-23 | Wen-Chih Huang | Pitching practice apparatus |
US20090143175A1 (en) * | 2001-09-04 | 2009-06-04 | Min Ming Tarng | Golfring, golfrisbee, golf disc and golf basket: Swiveling club to launch flying ring and disk or ball to play golf |
US20110042901A1 (en) * | 2009-07-24 | 2011-02-24 | Raymond Timothy J | Pole assembly for flying disk game |
US20140265137A1 (en) * | 2013-03-16 | 2014-09-18 | Jeffrey S. Gradinger | Portable Indoor and Outdoor Disc Golf Target for Daytime and Nighttime Use |
US20150069709A1 (en) * | 2013-09-11 | 2015-03-12 | Trilogy Targets Creations, Ltd. | Stationary target shooting system |
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US2103428A (en) * | 1936-07-16 | 1937-12-28 | Cecil C Lutes | Game apparatus |
US6159111A (en) * | 1999-05-14 | 2000-12-12 | Purcell; Boyd C. | Basketball shooting guide and defensive partner |
US20090143175A1 (en) * | 2001-09-04 | 2009-06-04 | Min Ming Tarng | Golfring, golfrisbee, golf disc and golf basket: Swiveling club to launch flying ring and disk or ball to play golf |
US20050137035A1 (en) * | 2003-12-19 | 2005-06-23 | Wen-Chih Huang | Pitching practice apparatus |
US20110042901A1 (en) * | 2009-07-24 | 2011-02-24 | Raymond Timothy J | Pole assembly for flying disk game |
US20140265137A1 (en) * | 2013-03-16 | 2014-09-18 | Jeffrey S. Gradinger | Portable Indoor and Outdoor Disc Golf Target for Daytime and Nighttime Use |
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US11500079B2 (en) * | 2019-02-01 | 2022-11-15 | Autel Intelligent Technology Corp., Ltd. | Calibration system and calibration bracket |
US20220023731A1 (en) * | 2020-07-21 | 2022-01-27 | Mark Brown | Adaptable Disc Golf Basket |
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