WO2023087047A1

WO2023087047A1 - Ball game apparatus and method therefor

Info

Publication number: WO2023087047A1
Application number: PCT/AU2021/051382
Authority: WO
Inventors: Leslie Nalesnyik; Adrian Hofmann
Original assignee: Puttchamp Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2021-11-19
Filing date: 2021-11-19
Publication date: 2023-05-25

Abstract

The present invention relates to a ballgame apparatus for testing the putting skills of the user. The ball game apparatus includes the target device. The target device includes a housing that defines a mouth for receiving the ball in use, and at least one or more sensors. The mouth delineates a plurality of target zones. The sensors are configured for sensing which of the target zones the ball is received into in use. The ball game apparatus includes a ball return arrangement. The ball game apparatus includes a controller for sharing games online with another player.

Description

BALL GAME APPARATUS AND METHOD THEREFOR

Field of the Invention

[001]The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for carrying out a golf putting game and in particular to an apparatus and method that is playable on line.

[002]The invention has been developed primarily for use in/with golf putters and golf balls and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.

Background of the Invention

[003]Existing golf games that utilise putting techniques include basic imitations of golf greens with a simple hole or some mechanical device that catches and returns the ball.

[004]Such arrangements only provide limited opportunities for a competitive game between multiple players, and require the players to be in close proximity to each other.

[005]0ther systems incorporate points scoring on a physical golf green whereby a player accumulates points depending on how close they put the ball to the hole. Points scoring may defined by zones arranged around the hole.

[006]Also, any currently existing physical putting games using proper golf balls and putters require all players to be in the one location or else they cannot participate or even observe.

[007]Online golf games are available whereby controllers, such as Sony Playstation™ controllers or XBOX™ controllers, or even keyboards and mouse controllers, are used to play a virtual game of golf or putting. However such games do not provide any practice for the physical game.

[008]Any discussion of the background art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such background art is prior art, nor that such background art is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the field in Australia or any other country.

Summary of the Invention

[009]The invention seeks to provide a ball game apparatus and method therefor which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative. [010] According to a first aspect, the invention may be said to consist in a ball game apparatus for testing putting skills of a user putting a ball using a putter, the ball game apparatus comprising: a. a target device including: i. a housing defining a mouth configured for receiving the ball in use, the mouth defining a plurality of target zones; ii. at least one or more sensors configured for sensing which of the target zones the ball is received into in use.

[011]ln one embodiment, the total device includes a plurality of sensors.

[012]ln one embodiment, the at least one or more sensors includes a camera.

[013] In one embodiment, the camera is disposed to view the mouth.

[014] In one embodiment, the target zones are delineated for viewing by the camera.

[015] In one embodiment, the at least one or more sensors includes a proximity sensor.

[016]ln one embodiment, the at least one or more sensors are located regularly along the width of the mouth.

[017]ln one embodiment, the ball game apparatus includes a ball return arrangement configured for returning a received ball.

[018]ln one embodiment, the ball return arrangement includes a percussion device for hitting the received ball.

[019] In one embodiment, the ball return arrangement includes a threshold lip.

[020]ln one embodiment, the threshold lip extends substantially across the width of the mouth.

[021]ln one embodiment, the ball return arrangement includes a catch channel extending across the width of the mouth.

[022]ln one embodiment, the catch channel extends in parallel with the threshold lip.

[023] In one embodiment, the catch channel extends inwardly of the threshold lip.

[024]ln one embodiment, the catch channel is configured to guide received balls to a return channel.

[025]ln one embodiment, the return channel extends through the threshold lip.

[026] In one embodiment, the return channel extends transversely to the catch channel.

[027] In one embodiment, the threshold lip is integrally formed with the housing.

[028] In one embodiment, the catch channel is integrally formed with the housing.

[029]ln one embodiment, the percussion device is configured for hitting the received ball along the return channel.

[030] In one embodiment, the percussion device is a solenoid device. [031 ] In one embodiment, the strength of the percussion device is adjustable.

[032]ln one embodiment, the ball game apparatus includes a camera configured for viewing the mouth.

[033]ln one embodiment, the housing defines a ramp leading to the threshold lip.

[034] In one embodiment, the ramp extends across the width of the mouth.

[035] In one embodiment, the ball game apparatus includes a display screen.

[036]ln one embodiment, the ball game apparatus includes user input controls.

[037] In one embodiment, the user input controls included display screen.

[038]ln one embodiment, the user input controls include buttons.

[039]ln one embodiment, the ball game apparatus includes a controller.

[040]ln one embodiment, the controller includes a processor.

[041 ] In one embodiment, the controller includes digital storage media.

[042] In one embodiment, the ball game apparatus includes a transceiver.

[043]ln one embodiment, the ball game apparatus includes a carpet.

[044]ln one embodiment, the ball game apparatus includes obstacles.

[045] In one embodiment, the obstacles are tapered.

[046]ln one embodiment, the obstacles are elongate.

[047]ln one embodiment, the transceiver includes a network chip.

[048]ln one embodiment, the digital storage media is configured for storing one or more selected from data and software instructions.

[049]ln one embodiment, the ball game apparatus includes between 10 and 20 proximity sensors.

[050]ln one embodiment, the ball game apparatus includes between 15 and 18 proximity sensors.

[051 ] In one embodiment, the mouth defines between 20 and 50 target zones.

[052]ln one embodiment, the mouth defines around 40 target zones.

[053]ln one embodiment, the mouth is between 200 mm and 500 mm wide.

[054]ln one embodiment, the mouth is around 300 mm wide.

[055]ln one embodiment, the ball game apparatus includes a power storage arrangement.

[056] In one embodiment, the power storage arrangement is a battery.

[057] In one embodiment, the battery is rechargeable.

[058]ln one embodiment, the ball game apparatus is connectable to a mains power source.

[059] In one embodiment, the housing is integrally formed. [060]ln one embodiment, the ball game apparatus includes a carpet.

[061 ] In one embodiment, the carpet is 450 mm wide by about 3.5 m long.

[062]ln one embodiment, the ball game apparatus may include a phone holder arrangement.

[063]ln one embodiment, the phone holder arrangement is configured for holding the camera of a mobile phone in position to view the mouth of the housing.

[064]ln one embodiment, the phone holder arrangement includes a body defining a recess for receiving a phone.

[065]ln one embodiment, the recess is defined in the housing.

[066]ln one embodiment, the phone holder arrangement includes an adjustable arm.

[067]ln one embodiment, the phone holder arrangement includes a clamp configured for clamping a mobile phone or similar computing device.

[068]ln one embodiment, the phone holder arrangement includes a magnetic holding arrangement.

Controller

[069]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. actuating a game.

[070]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. instructing the processor to record and adjudicate a game.

[071]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. receiving signals from the proximity sensors.

[072]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. determining a score when a ball is received, based on the signals received from the proximity sensors.

[073]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. receiving at least one or more images of the ball being received from the camera.

[074]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. transmitting images of the ball being received. [075]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. transmitting the determined score from the transceiver.

[076]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. displaying the determined score on the display.

[077]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. recording consecutive scores in a game.

[078]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. keeping track of individual players scores in a game.

[079]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. transmitting data and/or information to a remote server.

[080]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. receiving one or more selected from data and/or an image from a remote server relating to a ball being received in a similar ball game apparatus.

[081]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. keeping track of a game score based on the data and/or image received from the remote server.

[082]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. displaying the game score.

[083]According to a further aspect, the invention may be said to consist in a putting game system for allowing a putting game to be played online, the putting game system including: a. a processor for processing digital software instructions and/or data; b. digital storage media operationally connected to the processor, the digital storage media being configured for storage of data and/or digital software instructions; c. the digital storage media including software instructions configured for instructing the processor to carry out the steps of: i. receiving a sensor signal from at least one or more sensors indicative of the placement of a ball in a mouth of an apparatus; ii. transmitting the received sensor signal to a remote terminal for use in determining a score in an online game.

[084]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. determining a score from the sensor signal.

[085]According to a further aspect, the invention may be said to consist in a putting game system for allowing a putting game to be played online, the putting game system including: a. a processor for processing digital software instructions and/or data; b. digital storage media operationally connected to the processor, the digital storage media being configured for storage of data and/or digital software instructions; c. the digital storage media being configured for instructing the processor to carry out the steps of: i. receiving a sensor signal from at least one or more sensors indicative of the placement of a ball in a mouth of an apparatus; ii. determining the position of the ball in the mouth of an apparatus; and iii. determining a score from the determined position of the ball.

[086]ln one embodiment, the digital storage media is configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. transmitting the determined score to a remote terminal for use in an online game.

[087]ln one embodiment, the at least one or more sensors includes a camera, and the sensor signal includes at least one or more images.

[088]ln one embodiment, the at least one or more sensors includes a proximity sensor, and the sensor signal includes at least one or more proximity signals.

[089]ln one embodiment, the digital storage media is configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. transmitting the at least one or more proximity signals to a remote terminal for use in an online game.

[090]ln one embodiment, the digital storage media is configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. transmitting an image to a remote terminal for use in an online game. [091]ln one embodiment, the digital storage media is configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. detecting the ball position in the mouth from the sensor signal.

[092]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. delineating a plurality of target zones within the mouth of the apparatus. [093]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. retrieving a unique identifier associated with a particular player.

[094]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. allocating a unique identifier in association with a particular player.

[095]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. retrieving a handicap index associated with a particular player.

[096]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. delineating a different plurality of target zones and/or scoring according to the retrieved handicap index.

[097]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. recording ball placement history in association with the unique identifier associated with the player.

[098]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. generating statistical analysis of the recorded ball placement history. [099]ln one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. receiving an input indicative of a missed ball not entering the mouth.

[0100] In one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. allowing a change in game steps to allow players to skip turns.

[0101] In one embodiment, the software instructions are configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. transmitting the scores to a display device.

[0102] According to a further aspect, the invention may be said to consist in a method for playing a ball game carried out on an electronic device, the method including the steps of: a. receiving a sensor signal from at least one or more sensors indicative of the placement of a ball in a mouth of an apparatus; b. transmitting the received sensor signal to a remote terminal for use in determining a score in an online game.

[0103] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. determining a score from the sensor signal.

[0104] According to a further aspect, the invention may be said to consist in a method for playing a ball game carried out on an electronic device, the method including the steps of: a. receiving a sensor signal from at least one or more sensors indicative of the placement of a ball in a mouth of an apparatus; b. determining the position of the ball in the mouth of an apparatus; and c. determining a score from the determined position of the ball.

[0105] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. transmitting the determined score to a remote terminal for use in an online game.

[0106] In one embodiment, the at least one or more sensors includes a camera, and the sensor signal includes at least one or more images.

[0107] In one embodiment, the at least one or more sensors includes a proximity sensor, and the sensor signal includes at least one or more proximity signals.

[0108] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. transmitting the at least one or more proximity signals to a remote terminal for use in an online game.

[0109] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. transmitting an image to a remote terminal for use in an online game.

[0110] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. detecting the ball position in the mouth from the sensor signal.

[0111] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. delineating a plurality of target zones within the mouth of the apparatus.

[0112] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. retrieving a unique identifier associated with a particular player. [0113] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. allocating a unique identifier in association with a particular player.

[0114] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. retrieving a handicap index associated with a particular player.

[0115] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. delineating a different plurality of target zones and/or scoring according to the retrieved handicap index.

[0116] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. recording ball placement history in association with the unique identifier associated with the player.

[0117] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. generating statistical analysis of the recorded ball placement history.

[0118] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. receiving an input indicative of a missed ball not entering the mouth.

[0119] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. allowing a change in game steps to allow players to skip turns.

[0120] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. transmitting the scores to a display device.

[0121] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0122] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, a preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0123] Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a system of computing devices on which the various embodiments described herein may be implemented in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0124] Figure 2 shows a schematic view of a computing device;

[0125] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a ball game apparatus;

[0126] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a carpet from the view of a ball game apparatus;

[0127] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a carpet and obstacles from the view of a ball game apparatus; [0128] Figures 6a-d shows a variety of positions that the ball may be in when detected by proximity sensors;

[0129] Figure 7 shows delineations for scoring across the width of the mouth of a ball game apparatus;

[0130] Figures 8-10 shows a series of flowcharts showing methods for playing a ball game carried out on an electronic device;

[0131] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a ball game apparatus; and

[0132] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a ball game apparatus.

Description of Embodiments

[0133] It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.

System of computing devices

[0134] Figure 1 shows a system 1000 of computing devices adapted for use as a video calling system, and on which the methods described below may be carried out.

[0135] As such, the system 1000 comprises a server 1100 for serving web pages to one or more client computing devices 1200 over the Internet 1300.

[0136] In a preferred embodiment, the server 1100 is a web server having a web server application 1110 for receiving requests, such as Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) and File Transfer Protocol (FTP) requests, and serving hypertext web pages or files in response. The web server application 1110 may be, for example the Apache™ or the Microsoft™ IIS HTTP server.

[0137] The server 1100 is also provided with a hypertext preprocessor 1120 for processing one or more web page templates 1130 and data from one or more databases 1140 to generate hypertext web pages. The hypertext preprocessor may, for example, be the PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP) or Microsoft Asp™ hypertext preprocessor. The web server 1100 is also provided with web page templates 1130, such as one or more PHP or ASP files.

[0138] Upon receiving a request from the web server application 1110, the hypertext preprocessor 1120 is operable to retrieve a web page template from the web page templates 1130, execute any dynamic content therein, including updating or loading information from the one or more databases 1140, to compose a hypertext web page. The composed hypertext web page may comprise client side code, such as Javascript, io for Document Object Model (DOM) manipulating, asynchronous HTTP requests and the like.

[0139] The database 1140 is adapted for storing user account data representing one or more user accounts for users. Such user account data is created by the server 1100 during a user registration process. In this manner, the server 1100 is adapted to update the user account data in relation to the appropriate user account.

[0140] Client computing devices 1200 are preferably provided with a browser application 1210, such as the Google Chrome™, Mozilla Firefox™ or Microsoft Internet Explorer™ browser applications. The browser application 1210 requests hypertext web pages from the web server 1100 and renders the hypertext web pages on a display device for a user to view. Client side code could also be downloaded as applications on the client device 1200, in order to facilitate the operation of the video calling system. Such applications could, for example, be downloaded from the Apple App Store, Google play, or the like.

[0141] Client computing devices 1200 may communicate over the Internet 1300 via fixed line or wireless communication, for example using known wide area networks such as cellular communication towers 1400.

Computing device

[0142] Figure 2 shows a computing device 500. In a preferred embodiment, the computing device 500 takes the form of a server 1100 as described above. In this manner, the computing device 500 is adapted to comprise functionality for communication with the Internet 1300, storage capability (such as the database 1140) for storing user account data and the like.

[0143] However, it should be noted that the computing device 500 may be adapted for use as the client computing devices 1200 as is also shown in Figure 1. In this manner, the computing device 500 may comprise differing technical integers in order to achieve the functionality as set below.

[0144] In other words, the technical integers of the computing device 500 is shown in Figure 2 are exemplary only and variations, adaptations and the like may be made thereto within the purposive scope of the embodiments described herein and having regard for the particular application of the computing device 500.

[0145] The steps of the method of providing a putting game interface, as described in further detail below, can be implemented as computer program code instructions executable by the computing device 500. [0146] The computer program code instructions may be divided into one or more computer program code instruction libraries, such as dynamic link libraries (DLL), wherein each of the libraries performs a one or more steps of the method. Additionally, a subset of the one or more of the libraries may perform graphical user interface tasks relating to the steps of the method.

[0147] The computing device 500 preferably comprises semiconductor memory 505 comprising volatile memory such as random access memory (RAM) or read only memory (ROM). The memory 505 may comprise either RAM or ROM or a combination of RAM and ROM.

[0148] The computing device 500 comprises a computer program code storage medium reader 510 for reading the computer program code instructions from computer program code storage media 520. The storage media 520 may be optical media such as CD-ROM disks, magnetic media such as floppy disks and tape cassettes or flash media such as USB memory sticks. Alternatively, the storage media may be available online as an online download, for example from available resources such as the Apple App Store, or Google’s Play Store, or as a downloadable installation file on a website.

[0149] The device further comprises I/O interface 530 for communicating with one or more peripheral devices. The I/O interface 530 may offer both serial and parallel interface connectivity. For example, the I/O interface 530 may comprise a Small Computer System Interface (SCSI), Universal Serial Bus (USB) or similar I/O interface for interfacing with the storage medium reader 510. The I/O interface 530 may also communicate with one or more human input devices (HID) 540 such as keyboards, pointing devices, touch screen 555, joysticks and the like. The HIDs 540 can include mouse devices, or eye tracking devices that preferably allow for selection of regions and/or buttons on a display, as well as the dragging of selected items. The I/O interface 530 further also is configured for communication with a video camera 545. Video camera 545 may be plugged in via communication ports such as USB ports, or alternately be built into the computing device 500, for example as an integral laptop camera.

[0150] The I/O interface 530 may also comprise a computer to computer interface 550, such as a Recommended Standard 232 (RS-232) interface, for interfacing the device 500 with one or more personal computer (PC) devices, or with other devices such as display casting devices such as Google Chromecast devices. The I/O interface 530 may also comprise an audio interface 560 for communicate audio signals to one or more audio devices (not shown), such as a speaker or a buzzer. Further, the I/O interface 530 may be configured for communicating with one or more sensors 565 as will be described in more detail below.

[0151] The device 500 also comprises a network interface 570 for communicating with one or more computer audio/video networks 580, such as the Internet. The network 580 may be a wired network, such as a wired Ethernet™ network or a wireless network, such as a Bluetooth™ network or IEEE 802.11 network. The network 580 may be a local area network (LAN), such as a home or office computer network, or a wide area network (WAN), such as the Internet or private WAN. The network interface 570 may be provided with a suitable antenna 575 configured for the particular protocol being used.

[0152] The device 500 comprises an arithmetic logic unit or processor 590 for performing the computer program code instructions. The processor 590 may be a reduced instruction set computer (RISC) or complex instruction set computer (CISC) processor or the like. The computing device 500 further comprises a storage devices 600, such as a magnetic disk hard drive or a solid state disk drive.

[0153] Computer program code instructions may be loaded into the storage device 600 from the storage media 520 using the storage medium reader 510 or from the network 580 using network interface 570.

[0154] During the bootstrap phase, an operating system and one or more software applications are loaded from the storage device 600 into the memory 510. During the fetch-decode-execute cycle, the processor 590 fetches computer program code instructions from memory 510, decodes the instructions into machine code, executes the instructions and stores one or more intermediate results in memory 510.

[0155] In this manner, the instructions stored in the memory 510, when retrieved and executed by the processor 590, configures the computing device 500 as a specialpurpose machine that may perform the functions described herein.

[0156] The computing device 500 also comprises an audio/video interface 610 for conveying video signals to a display device 620, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), cathode-ray tube (CRT) or similar display device.

[0157] The device 500 also comprises a communication bus subsystem 630 for interconnecting the various devices described above. The bus subsystem 630 may offer parallel connectivity such as Industry Standard Architecture (ISA), conventional Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) and the like or serial connectivity such as PCI Express (PCIe), Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (Serial ATA) and the like. The computing device 500 can also include a clock device 640 configured for providing accurate time stamps for use by the processor 590. [0158] In addition, the device 500 may be provided with its own power storage device 660, preferably in the form of a rechargeable battery, although it is also envisaged that the device 500 may be powered from a mains power source.

Ball game apparatus

[0159] Now described with reference to figures 3-7, there is provided a ball game apparatus 2000 for testing the putting skills of a user putting a ball 3000, preferably using a putter (not shown). While the apparatus is described below for use with a putter, it will be appreciated that the same apparatus could be used for measuring and contesting the skills of one or more users using other types of sports equipment, such as a snooker stick and ball, a soccer ball, a bowling ball, a soccer ball, or the like. The ball game apparatus 2000 includes a target device 2100. The target device 2100 includes a housing 2110 and at least one or more sensors 2120 as will be described in more detail below. The housing 2110 defines a mouth 2112 configured for receiving a golf ball 3000 in use. The mouth 2112 defines a plurality of target zones 2114. The mouth is preferably between 200 mm and 500 mm wide, and most preferably around 300 mm wide.

[0160] In the embodiment shown in figures 3, 6 and 7, a plurality of sensors 2120 are provided that are proximity sensors 2122. The proximity sensors 2122 are configured for sensing which of the target zones 2114 the ball 3000 is received into in use. The proximity sensors typically generate sensor beams 2123 in use that may be reflected by a reflector strip (not shown) and when the beams are broken this will indicate the proximity of an object.

[0161] Further, a sensor 2120 in the form of a camera 2124 is provided. The camera 2124 is preferably mounted to the housing 2110 in a position to be able to view the mouth 2112. Further, the target zones 2114 are preferably delineated with markings 2118 that may be seen by the camera 2124. In the embodiment shown in figures, the plurality of proximity sensors 2122 are located to be spaced regularly along the width of the mouth 2112.

[0162] Preferably, the ball game apparatus includes between 10 and 20 proximity sensors, and more preferably between 15 and 18 proximity sensors. Further, the mouth preferably defines between 20 and 50 target zones, and more preferably around 40 target zones.

[0163] The ball game apparatus 2000 further includes a ball return arrangement 2200 configured for returning a ball 3000 that has been received into the mouth 2112 of the housing 2110. The ball return arrangement 2200 includes a percussion device in the form of a solenoid 2210. Preferably the solenoid is adjustable to adjust the strength of the solenoid to be able to return the ball 3000 within a range of distances.

[0164] The ball return arrangement further includes a threshold lip 2220 that extend substantially across the width of the mouth 2112. The housing 2110 preferably defines a ramp 2116 that extends upwardly from the floor towards the threshold lip 2220. The ramp 2116 preferably extends across the width of the mouth 2112. The threshold lip 2220 is preferably integrally formed with the housing.

[0165] The threshold lip 2220 defines a catch channel 2230 inwardly between the threshold lip and the rear of the mouth 2112, and which extends in parallel with the threshold lip 2220. The catch channel is also preferably integrally formed with the housing 2110 and configured for guiding received balls 3000 to a return channel 2240, and the catch channel is preferably sloped to be able to return the balls to the return channel 2240 by gravity.

[0166] The return channel 2240 extends transversely at right angles to, and through, the threshold lip 2220. The solenoid 2210 is preferably aligned with the return channel 2240 to be able to hit a ball 3000 along the return channel 2240 and out of the mouth 2112, back to a user.

[0167] In the embodiment shown, the ball game apparatus 2000 further includes a display screen 2300 for displaying the scores of the game, amongst other things.

[0168] The display screen 2300 can be a touch screen to screen that allows for input by a user, or alternatively buttons or other user input controls may be provided. The user input controls may be used by a user for example to start a game, and/or select a competitor, and/or transmit/cast the camera view and/or display screen to a display.

[0169] The ball game apparatus 2000 can further include a computing device 5000 or any part thereof as described above, for use as a controller (not shown). It is envisaged that the controller can include a processor and digital storage media for storing instructions and/or data, and can include a transceiver configured for wired or wireless connection to a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN).

[0170] It is further envisaged that the ball game apparatus 2000 can include additional equipment such as a carpet 2500 and/or obstacles 2600 as shown in figures 4 and 5. The obstacles 2600 can be in the form of tapered, elongate, wedge and/or block shaped obstacles for use on top of, or inserted underneath the carpet 2500. The software instructions may be configured for displaying standard game layouts for the obstacles on the display screen. Preferably the carpet is about 450mm wide by about 3.5m long, although alternative sizes are envisaged.

[0171] Preferably, the ball game apparatus 2000 includes a power storage arrangement, in the form of a rechargeable battery. However, in alternative embodiments, the ball game apparatus 2000 could be configured for receiving power from a mains outlet.

Functionality

[0172] In use, it is envisaged that the ball game apparatus 2000 may operate as a “dumb” terminal that receives input from users and/or sensors and merely relays these to a backend server 1100 or other computing device using the transceiver. The backend server can carry out the steps required for the functionality as will be described below. Alternatively, the ball game apparatus 2000 may operate as a “smart” terminal, being programmed with software instructions for communicating with other similar ball game apparatuses 2000 and carrying out the steps for the functionality as described below.

[0173] In a first embodiment, it is envisaged that initially a process of registration will occur. Preferably, a plurality of user devices, for example in the form of personal computing devices such as phones, computers, laptops or the like, will register 2 with a service provider system on a server 1100. The service provider system will receive 4 and store the registration of each user device on a database 1140. During the registration process, a particular user may be associated with a ball game apparatus 2000 on the database 1140. On registration, the service provider system may allocate a unique identifier to each player that registers. This unique identifier would be retrieved from the database when the player logs on to play a game. All games, scores, statistics, handicaps and any other information may be stored in association with the player’s unique identifier.

[0174] The first user device, or a parting game apparatus 2000 associated with the first user device, will then receive 6 an input from a user starting a game. The first user device will then receive 8 an input from a user that is indicative of the opponent in the game. Such a user input could include a selection from a group of friends, or a selection indicating that a random opponent is to be provided. The first user device will then transmit 10 the input that is indicative of the opponent to be selected. The service provider system will then receive 11 a signal indicative of the selected opponent. On receiving 11 the signal indicative of the selected opponent, the service provider system will interrogate 12 the database 1140 for a suitable opponent. The suitable opponent may be a particular selected opponent, or a random opponent that is available at the time for a game. If the selection indicates that a random opponent is to be provided, then the service provider system may interrogate the database for a user device that in online or which has indicated that it is open to being invited to new games.

[0175] The service provider system will then transmit 13 a game invitation to the opponent. The game invitation may be sent by email, text, or any other suitable communication means, including a message that is transmitted directly to the ball game apparatus 2000 associated with that opponent for display on the display screen of the ball game apparatus 2000.

[0176] On receiving 14 the game invitation, the second user device will display 16 the game invitation to the user associated with the second user device. The second user device will then receive 18 an input accepting the game invitation. The second user device will then transmit 20 a game acceptance signal indicative of the acceptance of the game invitation to the service provider system.

[0177] On receiving 22 the game acceptance signal, the service provider system will store the game except in signal and transmit 24 the game acceptance signal to the first user device. On receiving 26 the game acceptance signal, the first user device will display 27 the game acceptance signal 27 on the display screen, at which time the game will start.

[0178] The ball game apparatus 2000 will then receive 28 a sensor signal indicative of the location of entry of the ball 3000 into the mouth. The sensor signal will then be transmitted 30 to the service provider system. On receiving 32 the sensor signal, the service provider system will determine 34 the position of the ball based on the sensor signals. Once the position of the ball in the mouth has been determine 34, the service provider system will determine 36 a score associated with that position.

[0179] The determined score, and preferably an image of the ball being received into the mouth (taken by the camera) will then be transmitted 38 to the first user device and the second user device, to be received 40, 41 by the first user device and second user device respectively.

[0180] On receiving 40 the score and image, the second user device will display 42 the score and image on the display screen. The second user device will then receive 44 a sensor signal from the ball game apparatus 2000 associated with the second user device. It will be appreciated that information, such as sensor signals and/or images transmitted from the ball game apparatus 2000 may be transmitted directly from the ball game apparatus 2000 or via a personal computing device such as a phone, laptop, or the like.

[0181] The sensor signal will then be transmitted 46 to the service provider system, where it can similarly be received 22 and the position of the ball determined 34, together with the score, and the score and image can in turn be transmitted 38 to the other usr device, back and forth until the game is finished.

[0182] In another embodiment shown in figure 9, the first user device and the second user device will register 2 with the service provider system. The service provider system will receive 4 and store the registration, preferably in association with a unique identifier of a ball game apparatus 2000.

[0183] The first user device will receive 44 an input from a user starting a game. On receiving 40 for the input starting the game, the first user device will further receive 46 an input signal indicative of the opponent. Similarly to the previous embodiment, the opponent may be indicated particularly, or may be chosen randomly. The input signal indicative of the opponent will then be transmitted 48 to the service provider system, where it will be received 49. The service provider system will then interrogate the database for suitable opponents to either retrieve a random opponent that is online and available to play, or will search for a particularly selected opponent.

[0184] The service provider system will then transmit 50 a game invitation to the opponent. On receiving 52 the game invitation by the second user device associated with the chosen opponent, the second user device will display 50 for the game invitation, and receive 56 an input from a user accepting the game invitation. A game acceptance signal will then be transmitted 58 to the service provider system, where it will be received 59 and stored on the database 1140 as an active game. The game acceptance signal will then be transmitted 62 to the first user device, where it will be received 64, thereby commencing the game.

[0185] The first user device will then receive 66 a sensor signal from the sensor or sensors on the ball game apparatus 2000. The first user device will then detect 68 the ball position from the sensor signals, and determine 70 the score based on the position of the ball 3000 as it enters the mouth 2112 of the ball game apparatus 2000.

[0186] The determined score will then be transmitted 72, preferably together with an image of the ball entering the mouth 2112, to the service provider system. On receiving 74 the score and image, the service provider system may record the score on the database 1140. The service provider system will then transmit 76 the score and image to the second user device, where it will be received 78. The received score and image will then be displayed 78 on the display screen.

[0187] The user at the second user device will then play their shot using the ball game apparatus 2000, causing the sensors to output a signal indicative of the location of the ball when it enters the mouth 2112. The sensor signal will then be received 82 and used to detect 80 for the ball position and determine 86 a score from the ball position. The determined score and image of the ball entering the mouth is then in turn transmitted 88 to the service provider system, where it can in turn be recorded and transmitted onto the first user device. The game will progress in this fashion, until a winner is adjudicated by the service provider system according to the rules of the game. [0188] Now explained with reference to figure 7 and figure 11 , it is envisaged that the proximity sensors may be utilised to determine the location of the ball as it enters the mouth 2112 as follows.

[0189] The controller of the ball game apparatus 2000 will preferably receive 140 sensor signals from the proximity sensors, after which it will determine 142 the position of the ball in the mouth from the received sensor signals. Once the position of the ball in the mouth has been determine 142, the controller will allocate 144 a score according to the determined position. The allocated score may then be transmitted 146 to an opponents ball game apparatus, or a user device associated therewith.

[0190] Proximity sensors are preferably spaced 16.667 mm apart and therefore two or three sensors will typically be triggered by a golf ball of 43.5 mm diameter. Preferably the system will detect which proximity sensor has been triggered first. In this way it is possible to determine positions halfway between sensors. For example, two sensors may be triggered simultaneously, or three sensors might be triggered one after the other. Depending which sensors are triggered first, and in which order the ball position can be calculated and can be attributed to a particular “virtual” lane.

[0191] Examples of different ways in which the proximity sensors may be triggered shown in figure 7 numbered as 1 ) to 4). Each of the examples in the sequence show a ball 3000 being moved further towards the right. Typically, either two or three sensors will be triggered in sequence.

[0192] In the example numbered three) the sequence will remain B - A - C. However, if the ball moves a predetermined distance to the right, then it will trigger the sensors in the order B - C - A. The above example is for illustration purposes only, and the exact dimensions may be changeable. [0193] A table that could be used for evaluation of the location and determination of scoring is shown below as Table 1 .

Table 1

[0194] It is further envisaged that the software may be configured for allowing for player handicaps in the scoring system. Handicapping of players could be provided by adjusting the virtual lane widths that are adjudicated by the scoring system. It is further envisaged that the scores achieved by a particular player may be recorded and automatically allocated a handicap by the service provider system. Further, the handicap may be recorded by the service provider system for use the next time the player takes part in a game with other players. Before a game is started, the system may retrieve the place handicap from the database, and delineate a different plurality of target zones and/or scoring according to the retrieved handicap index.

[0195] Further, it is envisaged that the software on the user device and/or service provider system may be configured for allowing inputs for manual scoring of missed balls, where a shot by a player has not entered the mouth of the housing all.

[0196] Further, it is envisaged that the software may be configured for recording and providing statistics on the accuracy of a particular player, including, for example providing and displaying a bell curve, or any other relevant statistical indicators.

[0197] Further, it is envisaged that the software may be configured for allowing players to skip a turn, and then make up their turn afterwards. This would be convenient where, for example, one of the players is called away during a game. [0198] Further, it is envisaged that games not involving online players may be provided for, whereby a plurality of players play on the same ball game apparatus. In such games, the system will merely allocate alternative shots to different players depending on the number of players playing.

[0199] In an alternative embodiment now shown with reference to figure 12 (not shown), a different method of determining the position of the ball is described, wherein proximity sensors may not be required. In this alternative embodiment, a series of images may be received 150 from the camera 2124, which allows for a view of the full width of the mouth 2112. Image recognition software is used to detect 152 which image shows the ball in closest proximity to the threshold lip 2220. This image will then be selected and used to detect 154 the position of the centre of the ball 3000. The detected position of the centre of the ball can then be used to determine 154 the position of the centre of the ball in the mouth 2112. The controller will then allocate 158 a score in accordance with the determined position of the centre of the ball. The allocated score will then be transmitted 160 to an associated personal computing device such as a mobile phone of the user, as well as to an opponents ball game apparatus 2000 and/or personal computing device 500.

[0200] It is further envisaged that a wide variety of alternative means may be used to determine the position of the ball within the mouth using image recognition software. For example, the limits of the ball 3000 may be detected as edges on opposed sides, and the centre of the ball may be calculated by equally dividing the difference.

[0201] The benefit of using image recognition software to determine the position of the ball 3000 has the advantage of not requiring a plurality of potentially expensive proximity sensors. It is further envisaged that the ball game apparatus 2000 may not be provided with a camera.

[0202] In a further embodiment shown in figure 13, the ball game apparatus 2000 is provided with a phone holder arrangement 2800 including a recess 2810 for holding a mobile phone or similar computing device in a correct position for a camera 545 on the mobile phone to view the mouth 2112 through an aperture 2812, and may utilise the camera 545 of a mobile phone or similar computing device. Spacers or an adjustment mechanism may be provided to hold the mobile phone in the correct position. The adjustment mechanism could include it threaded adjustment means. An advantage of this configuration is that the screen of the mobile phone can be used as a display to display the scores, players turns, et cetera. [0203] A downloaded app may be utilised in conjunction with the camera 545 of the mobile phone to carry out the functionality described above in transmitting and receiving data to and from a service provider system and/or determining the position of the ball within the mouth.

[0204] It will be appreciated that a wide variety of holders may be available for holding a mobile phone in the correct position above the mouth 2112 of the housing 2110. For example, as shown in figure 14 a clamp 2820 located on an end of an adjustable arm 2822 is also be provided. The clamp preferably includes a pair of jaws that are biased to a closed position and are openable to clamp onto the mobile phone 500. The phone 500 is inserted into the clamp 2820 and the adjustable arm 2822 allows for adjustment of the position of the phone above the mouth 2112 until the camera is able to view the entire width of the threshold lip 2220.

[0205] In another embodiment (not shown), the phone holder arrangement can include a magnetic attachment.

[0206] Where a phone holding arrangement 2800 is used, it is envisaged that the image recognition software may be configured to calibrate itself according to features and/or delineations on or around the mouth.

Interpretation

[0207] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. For the purposes of the present invention, additional terms are defined below. Furthermore, all definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and/or ordinary meanings of the defined terms unless there is doubt as to the meaning of a particular term, in which case the common dictionary definition and/or common usage of the term will prevail.

[0208] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular articles “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise and thus are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e. to “at least one”) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, the phrase “an element” refers to one element or more than one element.

[0209] The term “about” is used herein to refer to quantities that vary by as much as 30%, preferably by as much as 20%, and more preferably by as much as 10% to a reference quantity. The use of the word ‘about’ to qualify a number is merely an express indication that the number is not to be construed as a precise value.

[0210] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the words “comprise”, “comprises” and “comprising” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated step or element or group of steps or elements but not the exclusion of any other step or element or group of steps or elements.

[0211] The term “real-time” for example “displaying real-time data,” refers to the display of the data without intentional delay, given the processing limitations of the system and the time required to accurately measure the data.

[0212] As used herein, the term “exemplary” is used in the sense of providing examples, as opposed to indicating quality. That is, an “exemplary embodiment” is an embodiment provided as an example, as opposed to necessarily being an embodiment of exemplary quality for example serving as a desirable model or representing the best of its kind.

[0213] The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and/or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and/or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and/or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.

[0214] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and/or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and/or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of” or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of” will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0215] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and/or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

Bus

[0216] In the context of this document, the term “bus” and its derivatives, while being described in a preferred embodiment as being a communication bus subsystem for interconnecting various devices including by way of parallel connectivity such as Industry Standard Architecture (ISA), conventional Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) and the like or serial connectivity such as PCI Express (PCIe), Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (Serial ATA) and the like, should be construed broadly herein as any system for communicating data.

In accordance with:

[0217] As described herein, ‘in accordance with’ may also mean ‘as a function of and is not necessarily limited to the integers specified in relation thereto. Composite items

[0218] As described herein, ‘a computer implemented method’ should not necessarily be inferred as being performed by a single computing device such that the steps of the method may be performed by more than one cooperating computing devices.

[0219] Similarly objects as used herein such as ‘web server’, ‘server’, ‘client computing device’, ‘computer readable medium’ and the like should not necessarily be construed as being a single object, and may be implemented as a two or more objects in cooperation, such as, for example, a web server being construed as two or more web servers in a server farm cooperating to achieve a desired goal or a computer readable medium being distributed in a composite manner, such as program code being provided on a compact disk activatable by a license key downloadable from a computer network.

Database:

[0220] In the context of this document, the term “database” and its derivatives may be used to describe a single database, a set of databases, a system of databases or the like. The system of databases may comprise a set of databases wherein the set of databases may be stored on a single implementation or span across multiple implementations. The term “database” is also not limited to refer to a certain database format rather may refer to any database format. For example, database formats may include MySQL, MySQLi , XML or the like.

Wireless:

[0221] The invention may be embodied using devices conforming to other network standards and for other applications, including, for example other WLAN standards and other wireless standards. Applications that can be accommodated include IEEE 802.11 wireless LANs and links, and wireless Ethernet.

[0222] In the context of this document, the term “wireless” and its derivatives may be used to describe circuits, devices, systems, methods, techniques, communications channels, etc., that may communicate data through the use of modulated electromagnetic radiation through a non-solid medium. The term does not imply that the associated devices do not contain any wires, although in some embodiments they might not. In the context of this document, the term “wired” and its derivatives may be used to describe circuits, devices, systems, methods, techniques, communications channels, etc., that may communicate data through the use of modulated electromagnetic radiation through a solid medium. The term does not imply that the associated devices are coupled by electrically conductive wires. Processes:

[0223] Unless specifically stated otherwise, as apparent from the following discussions, it is appreciated that throughout the specification discussions utilizing terms such as “processing”, “computing”, “calculating”, “determining”, “analysing” or the like, refer to the action and/or processes of a computer or computing system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulate and/or transform data represented as physical, such as electronic, quantities into other data similarly represented as physical quantities.

Processor:

[0224] In a similar manner, the term “processor” may refer to any device or portion of a device that processes electronic data, e.g., from registers and/or memory to transform that electronic data into other electronic data that, e.g., may be stored in registers and/or memory. A “computer” or a “computing device” or a “computing machine” or a “computing platform” may include one or more processors.

[0225] The methodologies described herein are, in one embodiment, performable by one or more processors that accept computer-readable (also called machine-readable) code containing a set of instructions that when executed by one or more of the processors carry out at least one of the methods described herein. Any processor capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken are included. Thus, one example is a typical processing system that includes one or more processors. The processing system further may include a memory subsystem including main RAM and/or a static RAM, and/or ROM.

Computer-Readable Medium:

[0226] Furthermore, a computer-readable carrier medium may form, or be included in a computer program product. A computer program product can be stored on a computer usable carrier medium, the computer program product comprising a computer readable program means for causing a processor to perform a method as described herein.

Networked or Multiple Processors:

[0227] In alternative embodiments, the one or more processors operate as a standalone device or may be connected, e.g., networked to other processor(s), in a networked deployment, the one or more processors may operate in the capacity of a server or a client machine in server-client network environment, or as a peer machine in a peer-to-peer or distributed network environment. The one or more processors may form a web appliance, a network router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine.

[0228] Note that while some diagram(s) only show(s) a single processor and a single memory that carries the computer-readable code, those in the art will understand that many of the components described above are included, but not explicitly shown or described in order not to obscure the inventive aspect. For example, while only a single machine is illustrated, the term “machine” shall also be taken to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein.

Additional Embodiments:

[0229] Thus, one embodiment of each of the methods described herein is in the form of a computer-readable carrier medium carrying a set of instructions, e.g., a computer program that are for execution on one or more processors. Thus, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, embodiments of the present invention may be embodied as a method, an apparatus such as a special purpose apparatus, an apparatus such as a data processing system, or a computer-readable carrier medium. The computer-readable carrier medium carries computer readable code including a set of instructions that when executed on one or more processors cause a processor or processors to implement a method. Accordingly, aspects of the present invention may take the form of a method, an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, the present invention may take the form of carrier medium (e.g., a computer program product on a computer-readable storage medium) carrying computer-readable program code embodied in the medium.

Carrier Medium:

[0230] The software may further be transmitted or received over a network via a network interface device. While the carrier medium is shown in an example embodiment to be a single medium, the term “carrier medium” should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term “carrier medium” shall also be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by one or more of the processors and that cause the one or more processors to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present invention. A carrier medium may take many forms, including but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media.

Implementation:

[0231] It will be understood that the steps of methods discussed are performed in one embodiment by an appropriate processor (or processors) of a processing (i.e., computer) system executing instructions (computer-readable code) stored in storage. It will also be understood that the invention is not limited to any particular implementation or programming technique and that the invention may be implemented using any appropriate techniques for implementing the functionality described herein. The invention is not limited to any particular programming language or operating system.

Means For Carrying out a Method or Function

[0232] Furthermore, some of the embodiments are described herein as a method or combination of elements of a method that can be implemented by a processor of a processor device, computer system, or by other means of carrying out the function. Thus, a processor with the necessary instructions for carrying out such a method or element of a method forms a means for carrying out the method or element of a method. Furthermore, an element described herein of an apparatus embodiment is an example of a means for carrying out the function performed by the element for the purpose of carrying out the invention.

Connected

[0233] Similarly, it is to be noticed that the term connected, when used in the claims, should not be interpreted as being limitative to direct connections only. Thus, the scope of the expression a device A connected to a device B should not be limited to devices or systems wherein an output of device A is directly connected to an input of device B. It means that there exists a path between an output of A and an input of B which may be a path including other devices or means. “Connected” may mean that two or more elements are either in direct physical or electrical contact, or that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other but yet still co-operate or interact with each other.

Embodiments:

[0234] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[0235] Similarly it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[0236] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

Specific Details

[0237] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

Terminology

[0238] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

Different Instances of Objects

[0239] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.

Comprising and Including

[0240] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[0241] Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements/features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.

Scope of Invention

[0242] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[0243] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms. Chronological order

[0244] For the purpose of this specification, where method steps are described in sequence, the sequence does not necessarily mean that the steps are to be carried out in chronological order in that sequence, unless there is no other logical manner of interpreting the sequence.

Markush groups

[0245] In addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognise that the invention is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

Industrial Applicability

[0246] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the games and golfing industries.

Claims

1. A ball game apparatus for testing putting skills of a user putting a ball using a putter, the ball game apparatus comprising: a. a target device including: i. a housing defining a mouth configured for receiving the ball in use, the mouth defining a plurality of target zones; ii. at least one or more sensors configured for sensing which of the target zones the ball is received into in use.

2. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the total device includes a plurality of proximity sensors located regularly along the width of the mouth.

3. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the at least one or more sensors includes a camera disposed to view the mouth and wherein the target zones are delineated for viewing by the camera.

4. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the ball game apparatus includes a ball return arrangement configured for returning a received ball.

5. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the ball return arrangement includes a percussion device for hitting the received ball.

6. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the ball return arrangement includes a catch channel extending across the width of the mouth the catch channel being configured to guide received balls to a return channel.

7. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the percussion device is configured for hitting the received ball along the return channel.

8. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the strength of the percussion device is adjustable.

9. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the ball game apparatus comprises a controller including a processor and digital storage media configured for storing data and/or software instructions.

10. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the ball game apparatus includes one or more selected from a. a display screen; b. user input controls; and c. a power storage arrangement.

11 .The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the ball game apparatus includes a transceiver.

12. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the ball game apparatus includes one or more selected from a. a carpet; and b. obstacles.

13. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the ball game apparatus may include a phone holder arrangement configured for holding the camera of a mobile phone in position to view the mouth of the housing.

14. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the phone holder arrangement includes a body defining a recess for receiving a phone.

15. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the phone holder arrangement includes an adjustable arm.

16. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the phone holder arrangement includes a clamp configured for clamping a computing device.

17. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the phone holder arrangement includes a magnetic holding arrangement.

18. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. receiving signals from the proximity sensors; and b. using the received signals from the proximity sensors to determine a score.

19. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. receiving at least one or more images of the ball being received from the camera; and b. transmitting and/or displaying images of the ball being received into the mouth.

20. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. transmitting the determined score from the transceiver.

21 .The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. receiving one or more selected from data and/or an image from a remote server relating to a ball being received in a similar ball game apparatus.

22. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the software instructions are configured for directing the processor for: a. keeping track of a game score based on the data and/or image received from the remote server.

23.A putting game system for allowing a putting game to be played online, the putting game system including: a. a processor for processing digital software instructions and/or data; b. digital storage media operationally connected to the processor, the digital storage media being configured for storage of data and/or digital software instructions; c. the digital storage media including software instructions configured for instructing the processor to carry out the steps of: i. receiving a sensor signal from at least one or more sensors indicative of the placement of a ball in a mouth of an apparatus; ii. transmitting the received sensor signal to a remote terminal for use in determining a score in an online game.

24. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 23, wherein the software instructions are configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. determining a score from the sensor signal.

25.A putting game system for allowing a putting game to be played online, the putting game system including: a. a processor for processing digital software instructions and/or data; b. digital storage media operationally connected to the processor, the digital storage media being configured for storage of data and/or digital software instructions; c. the digital storage media being configured for instructing the processor to carry out the steps of: i. receiving a sensor signal from at least one or more sensors indicative of the placement of a ball in a mouth of an apparatus; ii. determining the position of the ball in the mouth of an apparatus; and iii. determining a score from the determined position of the ball.

26. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 25, wherein the digital storage media is configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. transmitting the determined score to a remote terminal for use in an online game. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 25, wherein the at least one or more sensors includes a camera, and the sensor signal includes at least one or more images. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 25, wherein the at least one or more sensors includes at least one or more proximity sensors, and the sensor signal includes at least one or more proximity signals. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 25, wherein the digital storage media is configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. transmitting the at least one or more proximity signals to a remote terminal for use in an online game. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 25, wherein the digital storage media is configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. detecting the ball position in the mouth from the sensor signal. The ball game apparatus as claimed in claim 25, wherein the software instructions are configured for instructing the processor to carry out the step of: a. retrieving a handicap index associated with a particular player; and b. delineating a different plurality of target zones and/or scoring according to the retrieved handicap index. A method for playing a ball game carried out on an electronic device, the method including the steps of: a. receiving a sensor signal from at least one or more sensors indicative of the placement of a ball in a mouth of an apparatus; b. transmitting the received sensor signal to a remote terminal for use in determining a score in an online game. The method as claimed in claim 32, wherein the method includes the step of: a. determining a score from the sensor signal. A method for playing a ball game carried out on an electronic device, the method including the steps of: a. receiving a sensor signal from at least one or more sensors indicative of the placement of a ball in a mouth of an apparatus; b. determining the position of the ball in the mouth of an apparatus; and c. determining a score from the determined position of the ball. The method as claimed in claim 34, wherein the at least one or more sensors includes a camera, and the sensor signal includes at least one or more images. The method as claimed in claim 34, wherein the at least one or more sensors includes a proximity sensor, and the sensor signal includes at least one or more proximity signals. The method as claimed in claim 34, wherein the method includes the step of: a. transmitting the at least one or more proximity signals to a remote terminal for use in an online game. The method as claimed in claim 34, wherein the method includes the step of: a. detecting the ball position in the mouth from the sensor signal. The method as claimed in claim 95, wherein the method includes the step of: a. retrieving a handicap index associated with a particular player. The method as claimed in claim 95, wherein the method includes the step of: a. delineating a different plurality of target zones and/or scoring according to the retrieved handicap index.