Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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HOCKEY TYPE GAME BOARD AND SYSTEM
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of hockey type games and
skill
development, more particularly, shooting game boards and systems with
accessories.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Corn hole type game systems have had enduring appeal as recreational
pass
times. While sport themes and different game rules have been applied to
provide
variations of the original corn hole game format, specialized adaptations to
promote
particular types of skill development have been lacking.
[0003] In recent years, the recreational product market has grown to
accommodate the
design of compact and portable hockey net/goal articles and systems. Some of
these,
include a small footprint platform, and suitably sized hockey net with a ramp
leading
up to the opening of the net. Examples of such articles and systems are
disclosed in US
Patent No. 7066847, and products on the market branded under the labels Puck
CatcherTM, Saucer KingTM and Sauce KitTM. Others include a platform with a
hockey
net over a hole for the puck to go into, such as Perfect PassTM. These
articles and
systems are generally designed in single target formats and are not
necessarily designed
to encourage a particular form of skill development, such as a specific type
of hockey
shot technique.
[0004] A variation of a Skee ball or corn hole type game platform, Skee-Pucklm
includes an angled platform with several round holes which can be of varying
sizes.
The platform is covered by an enclosure structure to stop the puck from being
shot past
the platform and a player shoots the puck at the different holes (targets)
from a launch
pad. This system is intended as a semi-permanent installation indoors, such as
at an
arcade or in a basement.
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[0005] It is desirable to provide for alternative, on the go (portable),
hockey-type play
game formats to maintain user engagement and promote different kinds of hockey
shot
skill development.
[0006] To address these and other recreational user needs, a new portable,
game
board and system for hockey-type play is provided for in the present
disclosure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] It is an object of the invention to provide a portable game board and
system
with one or more target holes to promote the development of hockey shot
skills, such as
the saucer pass, by integrating target hole configurations which impact
(limit) the ways
in which a puck-shaped object can pass through the target holes.
[0008] More particularly, the present invention generally comprises an angled
game
board, wherein the dimensions of the target hole(s), such as the shape and
size, are
configured to partially obstruct or impede the passage of a puck-shaped
object,
depending on the orientation of the puck-shaped object in the air just as it
reaches the
target hole(s). The desired shape and size of the target hole(s) can be
obtained by the
way holes are formed in the game board and/or with the addition of other
structures
fitted to generally align with holes formed in the board. Game play is further
enhanced
by selecting configurations and using structures that mimic the appearance and
form of
hockey nets.
[0009] In one aspect there is provided a game board with top and bottom sides,
two
side walls and two end walls, comprising one or more target holes formed
through the
top and bottom sides, through which a puck-shaped object can pass, and wherein
at
least one of the one or more target holes has a substantially prismatic
perimeter.
[0010] In one embodiment of the game board, the at least one of the one or
more
target holes having a substantially prismatic perimeter is further configured
to impact
the puck-shaped object's ability to pass through said target hole when shot at
the game
board positioned for game play, depending on the puck-shaped object's
orientation in
the air just as it reaches the opening of said target hole at the top side of
the board.
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[0011] In another embodiment, the game board is constructed of one or more
materials selected from metal, wood-based material, plastic and fabric.
[0012] In still another embodiment, a set of legs is connected to the game
board to
prop the game board up at an angle off of a surface.
[0013] In yet another embodiment of the game board, all of the one or more
target
holes have a substantially prismatic perimeter.
[0014] In a further embodiment, one or more target holes is partially
obstructed by a
structure attached to the game board.
[0015] In yet another embodiment, the bottom side of the game board is
configured to
receive a framing system.
[0016] In a still another embodiment, the framing system defines part of the
perimeter
of one of the one or more target holes when connected to the game board.
[0017] In one embodiment, netting is positioned beneath the bottom side of the
game
board for receiving the puck-shaped object when it goes through one of the one
or more
target holes.
[0018] In another embodiment, the game board is constructed of plastic using
an
injection or blow molded process.
[0019] In a further embodiment, the game board is constructed of fabric
material
forming all or a portion of the top and bottom sides of the game board and
connected to
a frame structure integrated as part of the game board.
[0020] In still a further embodiment, the frame structure forms the side walls
and end
walls of the game board.
[0021] In another aspect there is provided a game board system comprising:
a) a game board with top and bottom sides, two side walls and two end walls,
comprising one or more target holes formed through the top and bottom sides,
through
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which a puck-shaped object can pass, and wherein at least one of the one or
more target
holes has a substantially prismatic perimeter;
b) a set of legs connected to the game board to prop the game board up at an
angle off
of a surface; and
c) netting positioned beneath the bottom side of the game board for receiving
the puck-
shaped object when it goes through one of the one or more target holes.
[0022] In an embodiment of the system, the at least one of the one or more
target
holes having a substantially prismatic perimeter is further configured to
impact the
puck-shaped object's ability to pass through said target hole when shot at the
game
board positioned for game play, depending on the puck-shaped object's
orientation in
the air just as it reaches the opening of said target hole at the top side of
the game
board.
[0023] In a further embodiment of the system, the game board is constructed of
one
or more materials selected from metal, wood-based material, plastic and
fabric.
[0024] In one embodiment of the system, all of the one or more target holes
have a
substantially prismatic perimeter.
[0025] In another embodiment of the system, the opening of one or more of the
one or
more target holes is partially obstructed by a structure attached to the game
board.
[0026] In a further embodiment of the system, the bottom side of the game
board is
configured to receive a framing system.
[0027] In still another embodiment of the system, the framing system defines
part of
the perimeter of one of the one or more target holes when connected to the
game board.
[0028] In yet another embodiment of the system, the game board is constructed
of
plastic using an injection or blow molded process.
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[0029] In still a further embodiment of the system, the game board is
constructed of
fabric material forming all or a portion of the top and bottom sides of the
game board
and connected to a frame structure integrated as part of the game board.
[0030] In another embodiment of the system, the frame structure forms the side
walls
and end walls of the game board.
[0031] In one embodiment, the game board system further comprises a launch pad
from which to shoot the puck-shaped object at the one or more target holes
[0032] In another aspect there is provided a method of playing a hockey-type
game
comprising the steps of:
a) propping up at an angle off of a surface, a game board with top and bottom
sides,
two side walls and two end walls, comprising one or more target holes formed
through
the top and bottom sides, through which a puck-shaped object can pass, and
wherein at
least one of the one or more target holes has a substantially prismatic
perimeter; and
b) shooting the puck-shaped object at the one or more target holes of the game
board.
[0033] In one embodiment of the method, the at least one of the one or more
target
holes having a substantially prismatic perimeter if further configured to
impact the
puck-shaped object's ability to pass through said target hole, when shot at
the game
board positioned for game play, depending on the puck-shaped object's
orientation in
the air just as it reaches said target hole at the top side of the game board.
[0034] In a further embodiment of the method, the game board is constructed of
one
or more materials selected from metal, particle board, medium density fiber,
plastic and
fabric.
[0035] In another embodiment of the method, a set of legs is connected to the
game
board to prop the game board up at an angle off of a surface.
[0036] In yet another embodiment of the method, all of the one or more target
holes
have a substantially prismatic perimeter.
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[0037] In still another embodiment of the method, the opening of one or more
of the
one or more target holes is partially obstructed by a structure attached to
the game
board.
[0038] In a further embodiment of the method, the bottom side of the game
board is
configured to receive a framing system.
[0039] In yet another embodiment of the method, the framing system defines
part of
the perimeter of one of one or more target holes when connected to the game
board.
[0040] In still a further embodiment of the method, netting is positioned
beneath the
bottom side of the game board for receiving the puck-shaped object when it
goes
through one of the one or more target holes.
[0041] In yet another embodiment of the method, the game board is constructed
of
plastic using an injection or blow molded process.
[0042] In one embodiment of the method, the game board is constructed of
fabric
material forming all or a portion of the top and bottom sides of the game
board and
connected to a frame structure integrated as part of the game board.
[0043] In another embodiment of the method, the frame structure forms the side
walls
and end walls of the game board.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0044] These and other features of the invention will become more apparent in
the
following detailed description in which reference is made to the appended
drawings
(Figures), briefly described as follows:
[0045] Figure 1: Front view of a game board according to the present
disclosure.
[0046] Figure 2: Front side (isometric) view of a game board according to the
present
disclosure.
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[0047] Figure 3: Back side view of a game board according to the present
disclosure
with a pair of foldable legs in an extended state/position.
[0048] Figure 4: Back side view of a game board according to the present
disclosure
with a pair of foldable legs in a collapsed state/position.
[0049] Figure 5: Netting attached to the bottom side of game board according
to the
present disclosure around the perimeter of a target hole.
[0050] Figure 6: A puck-shaped object (soft puck) for use in game play with a
game
board according to the present disclosure.
[0051] Figure 7: A game board system according to the present disclosure
including
metal framing attachable to the bottom side of the board and various
accessories for
game play and portability. Views A and B represent front (top) and back
(bottom) side
views, respectively.
[0052] Figure 8: Components of the game board system shown in Figure 7. View A
represents the top side of the board. View B represents the bottom side of the
board.
View C represents the netting and metal framing. View D represents the legs,
pucks
and puck casing.
[0053] Figure 9: Various game ready and storage states of the game board
system
shown in Figure 7. View A represents a collapsed game board system for storage
and
transport. View B represents a side view of View A. View C represents the
launch pad
(cover) detached from the game board. View D represents the legs of the game
board
system in an extended state. View E represents View D with the launch pad
flipped
open to uncover the top side of the game board.
[0054] Figure 10: Alternative netting attachment means for the game board
shown in
Figures 1-4. View A illustrates a top view of a molded plastic insert
(fitting) which fits
into the board holes and functions as the netting attachment means. View B
illustrates a
side view of the molded plastic insert. View C illustrates netting attached to
the molded
plastic insert fitted into the board hole from the underside (back) of the
board. View D
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illustrates netting attached to the molded plastic insert fitted into the
board hole from
the top side (front) of the board.
[0055] Figure 11: Exemplary illustrations of target hole configurations
according to
the disclosure of the game board herein, including prismatic and non-prismatic
variants.
[0056] Figure 12: A front view of a game board system according to the present
disclosure comprising a fabric canvass and framing structure to construct the
game
board.
[0057] Figure 13: A side view of the game board system of Figure 12 with legs
for
propping up the game board off of a surface.
[0058] Figure 14: A back side view of a game board system of Figure 12
according
to the present disclosure. The view presented does not necessarily correspond
to a leg
angle as shown in Figure 13 and has been drawn for the purpose of being able
to clearly
represent all of the salient features of the game board system.
[0059] Figure 15: The various parts of the framing structure, legs and related
supports for the game board system of Figure 12.
[0060] Figure 16: A net assembly for a game board constructed of fabric
including
the fitting for attaching netting to the underside of the board around the
perimeter of a
target hole.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0061] The present invention relates to hockey-type game boards and systems,
which
provide amusement and encourage hockey shot skill development by the
application of
target hole configurations which impact the manner in which a puck-shaped
object can
pass through a target hole.
[0062] Various features of the invention will become apparent from the
following
detailed description taken together with the illustrations in the Figures. The
design
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factors, construction and use of the game boards and systems disclosed herein
are
described with reference to various examples representing embodiments which
are not
intended to limit the scope of the invention as described and claimed herein.
The skilled
technician in the field to which the invention pertains will appreciate that
there may be
other variations, examples and embodiments of the invention not disclosed
herein that
can be practiced according to the teachings of the present disclosure without
departing
from the scope and spirit of the invention.
Definitions
[0063] Unless defined otherwise, all 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.
[0064] The use of the word "a" or "an" when used herein in conjunction with
the term
"comprising" may mean "one," but it is also consistent with the meaning of
"one or
more," "at least one" and "one or more than one."
[0065] As used herein, the terms "comprising," "having," "including" and
"containing," and grammatical variations thereof, are inclusive or open-ended
and do
not exclude additional, unrecited elements and/or method steps. The term
"consisting
essentially of' when used herein in connection with an apparatus, article, use
or
method, denotes that additional elements and/or method steps may be present,
but that
these additions do not materially affect the manner in which the recited
apparatus,
article, method or use functions. The term "consisting of' when used herein in
connection with an apparatus, article, use or method, excludes the presence of
additional elements and/or method steps. An apparatus, article, use or method
described
herein as comprising certain elements and/or steps may also, in certain
embodiments
consist essentially of those elements and/or steps, and in other embodiments
consist of
those elements and/or steps, whether or not these embodiments are specifically
referred
to.
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[0066] As used herein, the term "about" refers to an approximately +/-10%
variation
from a given value. It is to be understood that such a variation is always
included in any
given value provided herein, whether or not it is specifically referred to.
[0067] The recitation of ranges herein is intended to convey both the ranges
and
individual values falling within the ranges, to the same place value as the
numerals
used to denote the range, unless otherwise indicated herein.
[0068] The use of any examples or exemplary language, e.g. "such as",
"exemplary
embodiment", and "for example" is intended to illustrate or denote aspects,
embodiments, variations, elements or features of the invention and not
intended to limit
the scope of the invention.
[0069] As used herein, the terms "connected" and "attached" and grammatical
variations thereof refer to any direct or indirect physical association
between elements
or features of the apparatus (game board and game board system) of the present
disclosure. Accordingly, these terms may be understood to denote elements or
features
that are partly or completely contained within one another, coupled, disposed
on, joined
together, etc., even if there are other elements or features intervening
between the
elements or features described as being connected or attached. For example,
netting
attached to a game board according to the present disclosure may be attached
directly to
the underside of the game board or to metal framing which is itself attached
to the
underside of the game board.
[0070] As used herein, the terms, "hole" and "target hole" refer to the holes
which are
formed in a game board according to the present disclosure. A hole may or may
not be
a target hole. For example, a hole can be formed in the game board which is
then used
and/or further configured to form one or more target holes for game play, to
receive a
game board accessory, or to receive a component or structure used to set up
the board
for game play. When reference is made to a target hole, the hole is formed
through the
top and bottom sides of the board and is substantially in a game ready state
to function
as a shooting target. A target hole may or may not be configured to impact the
ability of
a puck-shaped object to pass through it. Target holes can have various
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and configurations as provided in the present disclosure. Moreover, a target
hole can be
adapted to provide for alternative configuration of a target hole using the
same game
board.
[0071] As used herein, the term "perimeter" with reference to a hole or target
hole is
used to denote the edge of an opening of a hole or target hole. Where a hole
or target
hole is made through or manufactured into the design of a game board, the
perimeter
may also refer to the inner walls or surface of a game board defining the
space of the
hole irrespective of whether said hole is or is not modified using additional
components
and structures to make the hole ready for game play as a target hole. By
extension the
term "perimeter" may also be used herein to denote the shape of a space not
necessarily
defined in a physical sense by walls and surfaces. In this way, the perimeter
of a hole
can be the perimeter of a hole or space within a hole. For example, a hole
within a hole
can be created by a funnel that extends physically through a hole in the game
board, or
can be understood as a sight line extension of a funnel resting on the top of
a game
board surface over a hole. In the latter case, the perimeter (including the 3D
space) of
the hole will be defined in part by the perimeter of the hole in the board and
perimeter
of the funnel resting over the hole, and will not have a complete set of wall
or physical
surface structures delineating its shape after a puck-shaped object passes
through the
surface entry point of the target hole opening. Accordingly, the term
"perimeter" can be
understood to denote the space through which a puck-shaped object must pass
when
going through a hole of a game board as guided by structural features forming
the hole,
or guiding the path of the puck-shaped object into and through the hole.
[0072] As used herein, the term, "substantially prismatic" with reference to
the
perimeter of a hole is used to denote one of a number of possible shapes for a
hole or
target hole (space), such as a square, rectangle, triangle, hexagon, rhombus
and the like
and can include shapes where one or more of the corners of the prism are
slightly
rounded, or otherwise altered by the insertion or attachment of structures to
the hole of
a game board.
[0073] It is contemplated that any embodiment of the game board and system,
methods and uses disclosed herein can be implemented by one skilled in the
art, as is,
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or by making such variations or equivalents without departing from the scope
and spirit
of the invention.
GAME BOARD AND SYSTEM CONFIGURATIONS
[0074] The game board and system of the present disclosure may be configured
to
comprise various component parts in order to be able to set up the board for
game play
and collapse the board into a more compact (e.g. flattened) format for
portability and
storage.
Game Board
[0075] The game board of the present disclosure comprises a board with one or
more
holes formed through the top and bottom surfaces. To simulate hockey-type play
one or
more of the target holes of the game board will have a substantially prismatic
shape
configuration (perimeter). To promote hockey shot skill development, one or
more of
the target holes of the game board will be configured to impact the ability of
puck-
shaped object to go through it, depending on how the object is shot and
arrives at the
opening of a given target hole. To achieve such configurations for target
holes, the
overall shape and dimensions of a target hole will be factors. Other factors
will be the
presence of impediments or obstructions to the puck-shaped object's path to
and
through the (target) hole, positioned in and/or around the target hole
perimeter. In this
sense, certain physical impediments and/or obstructions can be understood to
create
modified or new target holes within an existing (target) hole by altering the
perimeter
of the hole (shape) through which the puck-shaped object must pass to result
in a
successful on target shot during game play.
[0076] To provide for a game board system according to the present disclosure,
a set
of legs can be attached (connected) to the underside (bottom side surface)
and/or side
walls of the board to provide a means for propping up the board at an angle
when in
use. The legs can be supported by one or more cross bars connecting the legs
to the
game board and/or each other as shown in the Figures 3, 4, and 7 to 9.
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[0077] The board can consist essentially of any shape desirable so long as it
is
amenable to be being propped up at an angle for game play using a suitable
support
means and remain stable when puck-shaped objects hit it.
[0078] In one embodiment, the game board has a generally rectangular shape
with
substantially prismatic holes, wherein each hole has the same dimensions. In a
related
embodiment, the dimensions of the game board can be about 85 cm in length (for
the
side walls), about 55 cm in width (for the end walls), and about 7 cm deep.
The board
could be wider or narrower, or it could be rotated so the length is oriented
horizontally
(parallel), and the width is vertically oriented (perpendicular), to the
surface the game
board is positioned on when in use (for game play). The dimensions can be
varied by
about 20% and still provide for a board sized to maintain engaging game play
and ease
of storage and transport.
Target Hole(s)
[0079] Target holes can have various constructions and configurations which
can be
defined by, but not limited to, the dimensions (i.e. the openings and three
dimensional
(3D) space) of the initial hole(s) made through the top and bottom sides of
the game
board. To create target holes, structural elements can be attached the game
board to
partially obstruct or change the shape or dimensions of the openings
(perimeter) of the
hole on the top side, and/or bottom side of the game board, or at the
perimeter walls of
a hole of the board. Structural elements can also be used to create optimal
and/or sub-
optimal paths for a puck-shaped object to reach the opening of a target hole
(see Figure
1, Figure 8 and Figure 11 for illustrative embodiments).
[0080] In one embodiment, the target holes formed into a game board are
substantially prismatic (e.g. rectangular). In a related embodiment, the
target holes have
the same dimensions. In another related embodiment, the target holes have
different
dimensions. In still another related embodiment, all of the target holes have
the same
prismatic shape (as may be defined by the perimeter). In another related
embodiment,
the target holes have different shapes as may be defined by the perimeter of
the hole in
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the game board, or perimeter created by applying structural elements
(structures) to
modify the perimeter of the hole made through the game board.
[0081] In a further related embodiment, the target holes are formed to look
like
miniature (rectangular) goals and are each 9.3 cm in height, and 20.8 cm in
width. The
rectangular target holes are not only designed to simulate the shape of an
actual hockey
goal, but are also intended to cause the user to perform a proper saucer
pass/shot
making it more challenging to get a puck through a target hole. The user must
start the
release of the shot/pass off the heal of the blade of their stick in order to
have the puck
hover through the air flat, while rotating towards to the goal, otherwise
known as a
saucer pass or shot. This is a skillset that is developed and requires
repetition in order
to master.
[0082] In a further embodiment, one or more holes are formed through the game
board, wherein at least one of the one or more holes is divided into one or
more target
holes. The target holes may be configured using various structures, such as
hole covers,
guides, funnels, deflectors, inserts, as well as framing elements integrated
into the game
board or framing systems attached to the underside of the board (see Figure
7).
[0083] In another embodiment, the target holes can be formed by partially
covering
part of the holes using removable plates, or similar structures. In an
embodiment, a
round hole can be partially covered with a plate structure, which converts or
provides
within the perimeter of a round hole a substantially prismatic (target) hole.
In this way,
a game board with round holes used for a corn hole or golf type shooting game
can be
converted into a game board according to the present disclosure by
reconfiguring the
round holes to target holes which impact a puck-shaped object's ability to
pass through
it (based on the puck-shaped object's orientation in the air just as it
reaches the opening
of said target hole at the top side of the board).
[0084] In still another embodiment structural (hole) inserts, such as dividers
or other
forms of similar impediments and obstructions can be used to change the 3D
configuration of the holes to form one or more target holes.
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[0085] In yet another embodiment, game play can be made more challenging by
incorporating structures extending from the top side of the game board, at or
near the
perimeter of the target holes. Such structures serve as obstacles that impact
the ability
of puck-shaped object to reach a given target hole, depending on how the puck-
shaped
object it is shot at the target hole (i.e. the object's trajectory). The
structural obstacles
can take on different forms, such as plates, fins, posts or other structures,
or a tubular
structure fitted around the perimeter of a target hole. In Figure 11 where
such variations
are illustrated, a hole 8 of a game board can function as a target hole
without
modifications or else be modified to create new target hole configurations
36a, 36b,
36c, 36d using structures 40, 41, 42 and 37, respectively.
[0086] In Figure 11D a round hole like those found on standard corn hole
boards and
variations thereof is fitted with a prismatic plate structure 37 which has a
prismatic
opening in it to convert such a standard corn hole type board game into a game
board
according to the present disclosure.
[0087] In a further embodiment, netting can be attached to the underside
(bottom
side) of the game board around the perimeter of each hole or target hole. The
netting
receives puck-shaped objects which pass through the (target) hole(s) of the
game board.
The netting can be directly or indirectly attached to the underside of the
game board
using pins, hooks, ring nails or screws. A string or fibre can be run through
the netting
and threaded through the ring nails/screws (see Figure 5). Other means for
directly or
indirectly connecting netting to the board can also be applied using
structures to which
the netting is attached and which are then snapped, locked into, or otherwise
fitted onto
the underside of the board, without having to use multiple hooks and
nails/screws. For
example, a mechanism comprising a plastic injection mold that has channels in
it so
that the netting can be looped through it is known in the art.
[0088] Figure 10 illustrates a fitting 29, which can be constructed using a
suitable
plastic form adapted to fit different hole configurations. The fitting 29 has
a groove 30
around its perimeter defined by a wall portion 31 and two flange portions, one
which
rests on the top side of the board 32 and another which is fitted up against
the bottom
side of the board 33 when the insert is fitted into a hole of the board. A
further wall
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portion 34 extends downward (perpendicular) to the flange 33 away from the
bottom
side of the board when the insert is fitted into a hole. This wall portion 34
includes
holes 35 through which the netting can be threaded and thereby secured to the
underside of the board.
[0089] A variation of such a netting attachment means adapted for a canvass
(fabric)
version of the game board according to the present disclosure (Example 3) is
to take a
strip of material with holes in it for receiving netting, and stitch one edge
of it to the
under (bottom) side of the canvass game board structure along the perimeter of
a hole
in the canvass (see Figure 16)
[0090] In another embodiment netting is attached to framing elements or a
framing
system, such as the metal framing (or a portion/segment thereof) as shown in
Figure 7
that substantially aligns with, or forms at least part of the perimeter of a
target hole in
the game board.
Game Board System
[0091] A game board system for hockey-type play and shooting skill development
is
provided including a game board according to the present disclosure, a means
for stably
propping up the game board, such as a set of legs and optionally netting to
capture
puck-shaped objects shot through target holes in the game board.
[0092] In one embodiment, a set of legs is attached to the bottom side, side
walls
and/or one or both of the end walls of the game board. The set of legs can be
a pair of
legs connected proximal to one end of the game board relative to the other end
of the
game board. In a related embodiment, the leg length for a pair of legs
positioned
proximal to end wall 4 as shown in Figure 4 is about 63.5 cm.
[0093] Alternatively, the set of legs can consist of two pairs of legs, each
pair with a
different length, proximal to one end of the game board, in order to prop up
the game
board at an angle off of a surface. In still a further embodiment, a tripod
leg system can
be used to prop up the game board off of a surface. In still another
embodiment, the
legs height or angle relative to the surface the game board is propped on
(when in use)
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can be varied using telescoping legs, or providing for notches in the legs,
which can
receive cross support elements that attach to the board and legs, in order to
lock the legs
in a certain position for game play.
[0094] To accommodate different type of surface topographies (e.g. uneven
ground
terrains), and ensure the game board can be securely and stably set up for
use,
additional features can be integrated in a game board system. In one
embodiment, the
individual leg lengths can be adjusted using a telescoping leg configuration.
In another
embodiment, a variety of fittings can be connected to the free end of each leg
(opposite
to the end connected to the game board) to either secure the legs into a
surface, or have
them rest more stably on a given surface. For example, a spike fitting can be
used to pin
a leg into the ground, or connectors can be used to secure the free ends of
the legs to a
surface structure. For example, a cross bar can be used as shown in Figures 14
and 15,
where connectors 44 link the free ends of legs 10 using a bar/tube 39.
[0095] In a further embodiment, another board or plate structure can be used
instead
of a set of legs to prop up the game board at an angle relative to a surface.
The bottom
side of the game board can be configured with a groove or other like feature
to receive
the end of such a board or plate structure at an angle.
[0096] A base (surface) structure (e.g. a flat surface or a base of a framing
system)
can be optionally provided, onto, or into which an end of the game board
and/or legs, or
other board or plate structure can be received.
[0097] In one embodiment, netting is secured to the underside (bottom side) of
the
game board under one or more of the one or more target holes. Individual nets
can be
secured under each target hole or one large net can be secured under all of
the target
holes. Alternatively, netting can be provided on a separate framing assembly
configured and positioned under the game board so as to capture puck-shaped
objects
successfully shot through a target hole, irrespective of the angle of passage
of the puck-
shaped object through said target hole. For example, the net frame assembly
could be
taller at the end sitting under the higher end wall of the game board when
propped up
off a surface (e.g. the ground) for game play. Similarly, net framing
assembly, can
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provide a cover over the game board can be used to contain puck-shaped
objects, which
do not go through a target hole so as to make the recovery of the puck-shaped
objects
easy for players during game play.
[0098] In still another embodiment, the game board can be expanded modularly
by
connecting game boards (e.g. panels) together to increase the available number
of holes
available for creating target holes for game play. Board panels can be
connected to one
another using hinges, clips, rivets, interconnecting framing elements, or
other means
known in the art.
Framing
[0099] Various framing features made from a similar array of materials as the
game
board can be used to construct the game board and game board system of the
present
disclosure. A framing structure can be used to provide peripheral and internal
frameworks for a game board (as shown in Figures 12-15), or act as finishing
elements
as shown in Figures 1-3 around the edges of the sides of the game board.
Framing
supports and elements can be used to delineate target holes, and
position/secure netting
underneath said holes. See, for example, the plastic inserts used for the
netting in
Figure 10 and frame segments of the framing system shown in Figures 7 and 8.
Framing features can also be used to provide overall support and stability to
a game
board system. As contemplated herein, the legs of a game board system can be
integrated into a framing system or framing structure and thereby provide
support, as
well as facilitate the positioning of a game board for game play.
[00100] In one embodiment the game board system comprises a framing system
(e.g.
made of wood, metal or plastic) attached to the bottom side of the game board.
The
framing system can serve several functions. It can provide various forms of
structural
support for the board, netting and legs. The framing system or segments within
it, can
also be used to define part of, or the entirety of the perimeter of a target
hole within a
hole provided for in the game board. A third function is to provide a partial
obstruction
within a target hole to promote shooting skill development. The portion of the
framing
system used as an obstruction within a target hole can be configured with
netting to
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create a miniature hockey goal. Off target shooting which results in a puck
hitting
framing elements obstructing a target hole (e.g. made of metal) can simulate
hitting a
hockey goal frame/post.
[00101] In one embodiment, the framing system can be formed as a single
structure
with various functional portions or segments as shown in the Figures 7 and 8.
In
another embodiment the framing system can comprise a number of separate
portions or
segments which can be individually or independently fitted and connected to
the
underside of a game board.
Accessories
[00102] The game board system may also be provided with various accessories to
facilitate and enhance game play and the convenience of storing and
transporting the
game board system. Optional accessories include pucks, a puck carrying case, a
game
board cover and a (puck shooting) launch pad.
[00103] In one embodiment, one or more puck-shaped objects are provided for
shooting at the target holes of a game board according to the present
disclosure. The
puck-shaped object(s) can be standard hard rubber pucks, plastic pucks, soft
pucks
similar to bean bag toss articles (see Figure 6), or any combination of the
foregoing.
[00104] In yet another embodiment, distinguishable sets of puck-shaped objects
are
provided to facilitate competitive shooting play between two or more players.
The sets
of puck-shaped objects may be distinguished using different colouring and
markings.
[00105] In a further embodiment, the puck-shaped objects may be provided in a
carrying case. The carrying case may be netting, a flexible textile bag or a
rigid casing.
In a related embodiment, the casing for storing puck-shaped objects can be
attached to
the cross bar(s) of the pair of legs provided with the game board system in
such a
manner so as to maintain a compact footprint for the game board system for
storage and
transport (see Figures 7B and 9B).
[00106] In still another embodiment, a launch pad for shooting the puck is
provided
with the game board system. The launch pad can be provided as a separate
accessory,
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or be detachably connected to the game board. In an embodiment, the launch pad
is
attached by way of a hinge mechanism to one end of the game board. As shown in
Figures 7 to 9, the height and width dimensions of the launch pad can
correspond to
that of the game board. When not in use, the launch pad can function as a cap
or cover
for the top side of the game board to protect this surface from being damaged
during
storage and transport. By making the launch pad detachable, it can be
positioned at a
desired distance from the game board when propped up for use in order to play
and
develop shooting skills.
CONSTRUCTION OF GAME BOARD and SYSTEM
[00107] The game board of the present disclosure can be constructed of
standard
materials used to make corn hole-type and other similar toss and shooting game
boards,
such as, but not limited to, wood based products such as particle board,
medium density
fiber (MDF) board, metals, plastic (e.g. using a blow/injection molding
process) and
fabrics, as well as combinations and composites (e.g. wood-plastic composites)
of said
materials. The plastic used can be polyethylene pellets heated and melted in a
blow-
molding process. The board can also be mounted into a lightweight (e.g.
hollow) plastic
or metal frame (e.g. made from aluminum). When using fabric a number of
different
fabrics may be suitable, for example, provided they are sturdy enough to
withstand
repeated hits from puck-shaped objects at high speeds, such as an Oxford
canvass
woven material.
[00108] In one embodiment, the game board is made of MDF board (e.g. 5 mm) and
finished around the edges with aluminum framing or flashing. In another
embodiment
the side walls of the game board extend beyond the thickness of the game board
between and including the top and bottom sides such that the underside of the
board is
recessed from the one end of each of the side walls as shown in Figures 3 and
4.
[00109] In another embodiment, the game board is a plastic, injected molded
board/casing including indentations for fitting or mounting a relatively light
weight
metal framing (e.g. hollow tubing made of steel). This construction reduces
damage to
the board from shots taken with pucks that miss the target holes. An injection
molded
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construction for the game board also simulates the sound of hitting the metal
that is
often heard when hitting a hockey goal post with a puck.
[00110] In a further embodiment, the game board is made of fabric (e.g.
canvass)
secured to a frame structure (see Figures 12-15). The fabric is secured with
sufficient
tension to create a substantially flat surface and expose the holes therein
according to
the their intended shapes and dimensions. This embodiment can be constructed
as a
lightweight and portable game board and game board system. For example, the
frame
can be made, assembled and disassembled from a set of plastic tubing and
connector
pieces to link the tubing together to form the frame structure.
[00111] In still a further embodiment, the game board may be constructed to
have
different game play regions made of different materials. For example, the
center region
of the game board with the single target hole labelled as 3G shown in Figure
12 can be
made of fabric attached to a framing structure integrated into the rest of the
game board
made from a wood-based or plastic material/product. The fabric portion can be
tensioned as desired using string/elastic elements attached to the framing
structure and
thereby provide an additional level of game play interest for the differential
manner in
which a puck-shaped object might be deflected (bounce) off of the game board
in said
central region, if not on target with the 3G target hole when shot at the game
board.
[00112] Other components of game board system, such as the legs can be made of
light
weight metal such as aluminum, plastic or wood. Various supporting elements
can also
be included, such as cross bars, and other stabilizing features appropriate to
ensure that
the game board can be reliably propped up at a desired angle relative to a
surface when
in use (during game play). Such features will further assist to maintain game
board
positioning after being repeatedly struck by puck-shaped objects. For game
board
system portability, the legs can be constructed so as to be readily removable
(detached)
from the game board or foldable (while remaining attached to the game board)
to be
able to flatten the system for transport.
[00113] In one embodiment, a set of plastic legs is detachably connected to a
game
board frame structure and stabilized with plastic tubing functioning as a
cross bar to
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connect the ends of the legs on a surface base, opposite from the ends
connected to the
game board.
[00114] Netting can be constructed using standard netting fibres made of nylon
and
other suitable materials known in the art.
[00115] Use of different puck-shaped objects can be considered with respect to
the
durability of a given game board construction and in order to obtain a
particular kind of
shot trajectory, orientation through the air towards a target hole and
shooting result
when the puck-shaped object hits the top surface of the board. If, for
example, the
saucer pass/shot is done with a plastic or standard hard rubber puck, and done
properly,
the puck will either go straight in and through a target hole, or deflect away
from the
board. If pucks hit the surface flat they may slide down or up depending on
their
trajectory. When using a bean bag (soft) puck, a missed target hole may be
more likely
to result in the puck landing on the surface (top side) of the board and
sliding down
into, to the edge of or around a target hole to the bottom of the game board.
USE OF GAME BOARD AND SYSTEM
[00116] The game board and system of the present disclosure can be used for
hockey-
type play and hockey shot skill development. The method for using the game
board and
system comprises the steps of setting up the game board of the present
disclosure at an
angle and shooting a puck-shaped object at one or more target holes. To make
game
play more engaging various adjustments can be made to the game board angle
(off of,
or relative to the surface the game board is resting on for game play) and in
the
configuration of the target holes. Additionally, different game rules can be
designed to
associate point scoring schemes with successfully made shots on (target) goal.
[00117] The arrangement of target holes in the game board can be varied
according to
user preferences and game play design, such that the game scoring system is
correlated
to the target holes on the board as part of the game instructions and
directions. In one
embodiment the game board has five target holes. In a related embodiment, each
hole
can have a certain point value listed below it, as shown in Figures 1, 2, and
12. Lighting
features (e.g. light emitting diodes (LED) with sensors) can also be
integrated into the
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game board and set to light according to how well game play is executed by a
player to
simulate goal scoring experiences in hockey-type play on ice
[00118] A game can be designed to challenge players by requiring the winning
player
to get a specified total number of goals/points to win the game. In addition
to the
configuration of target holes (e.g. shape, size), the number of target holes
and point
value amount associated with the target holes could make game play more or
less
engaging. Having too many target holes could make it less challenging, or more
difficult to complete the game depending on the point system applied. Having
fewer
holes requires the player to be accurate, and apply the skillset that can be
developed or
learned with practice.
[00119] In one embodiment the game board is set up at about a 35 degree angle
relative to the ground or surface it is resting on. In another embodiment the
game board
is set up at about a 45 degree angle relative to the ground or surface it is
resting on. In
still other embodiments, the game board is set up an angle ranging between
about 25 to
about 60 degrees relative to the ground or surface it is resting on. The game
board can
be set up at different angles to accommodate different levels of shooting
skill
development and provide variety to the user's experience. For example, by
propping
up the game board at angles ranging between about 25 to about 60 degrees, the
difficulty of the saucer pass/shot will change. If the board is more upright,
this requires
more accuracy, whereas when the board is less upright, the puck-shaped object
is more
able to land on the board and slide into a target hole.
[00120] In another embodiment, the launch pad is placed within a few meters of
the
game board. Making a saucer pass shot from this distance requires keeping the
puck-
shaped object at a lower height off the ground to reach the target holes in an
optimal
orientation and pass through any one of them as the case may be. In another
embodiment, the launch pad is placed more than a few meters from the game
board.
Making a saucer pass shot from this distance requires a higher trajectory to
reach the
target holes in the optimal orientation and pass through.
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[00121] The following examples of a game board and system according to the
present
disclosure are set forth and described with reference to the Figures. It will
be
understood that these examples are intended to describe illustrative
embodiments of the
game board and system and uses thereof and are not intended to limit the scope
of the
invention in any way.
EXAMPLES
Example 1 ¨ Wood Product Game Board and System
[00122] With reference to Figures 1-5 and 10, an embodiment of the game board
provided in the present disclosure includes a board 1 with top 2 and bottom 3
sides, and
four side walls 4, 5, 6 and 7. The board can be set-up at an angle supported
by a pair of
folding legs 10 using the hinge and leg support bar system shown at features
13a to
13d. The legs are thereby supported when extended to prop up the game board
for
game play, and can be readily collapsed to fit up against the bottom side of
the game
board for transport. Five holes 8 having the same dimensions are configured as
target
holes with substantially prismatic perimeters 11. The dimensions of the target
holes are
designed to encourage the use and development of saucer pass skills in order
to get a
puck-shaped object 21, such as the soft puck shown in Figure 6, to pass
through the
holes 8. In other words, the chances of the puck-shaped object 21 getting
through a
target hole are higher if shot using a saucer pass technique where the puck
moves
through the air like a saucer in the orientation shown in Figure 6. Netting 9
(for
receiving pucks, which go through the target holes), is attached around the
perimeters
11 of the holes 8 using a threading string 20 and hooks or ring nails 12
secured directly
to the bottom (under) side 3 of the board 1 (Figure 5).
[00123] Alternatively, the netting can be securely threaded through small
holes 35 and
secured to the board by way of a grooved plastic insert 29 with flange
portions 32, 33,
which sit, respectively, against the top 2 and bottom 3 sides of the board
when the
insert 29 is fitted into a hole of the board (Figure 10). The wall portion 31
defining the
recessed part of the groove 30 of the insert 29 fits along and against the
perimeter wall
11 of a board hole.
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[00124] The board shown in Figures 1 to 4 can be made of various rigid
materials
suitable for constructing a relatively light weight board and include finishes
to protect
the board from damage during game play and transport. For example, a particle
or fiber
type board can be laminated on the top 2 and bottom sides 3 and finished
around the
side walls 4, 5, 6, and 7 using a frame or flashing made of metal or plastic,
as the case
may be.
[00125] The top side 2 of the board can also comprise various markings in line
with
the theme for game play (in this case hockey) and to display a goal/point
scoring
system for successfully shooting a puck-shaped object 21 into each target hole
8.
Example 2¨ Plastic Game Board and System
[00126] In an embodiment of the game board system illustrated in Figures 7 to
9, a
board 1, including holes 8a, 8b and 8c, is provided with netting 9 for each
hole, a pair
of foldable legs 10, metal framing (system) 17 (which can alternatively be
constructed
of plastic) to provide target holes, pucks 21, a puck launching pad 14 and
puck carrying
case 22.
[00127] The board 1 can be blow/injection molded using suitable plastic
materials to
include three holes 8a to 8c and channel indentations 20 on the bottom side 3
with
fittings 19 for receiving and securing the metal framing 17, for example,
using brackets
and/or screws. The metal framing 17 is constructed as one continuous framework
with
distinct portions/segments, which provide different functions once attached to
the
bottom side 3 of the board 1.
[00128] In Figures 7B and 8C the metal framing 17 has five prismatic
formations 23a
to 23e with interconnecting supporting frame segments 24. Formations 23a, 23b,
23d
and 23e serve to partially define or section off target holes within holes 8a
and 8c. The
perimeter of each target hole is defined towards the center of holes 8a and 8c
by one
side of the metal framing formations 23a, 23b, 23d and 23e and on three sides
by the
perimeter 11 of holes 8a and 8c. While the metal framing formations 23a, 23b,
23d and
23e substantially align with the perimeters 11 of holes 8a and 8c, they are
positioned
slightly off-set from the perimeters 11, such that three of the sides of each
of the metal
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framing formations 23a, 23b, 23d and 23e partially obstruct (the openings of)
holes 8a
and 8c.
[00129] Similarly, metal framing formation 23c partially obstructs the target
hole
defined by the perimeter 11 of hole 8b on three sides by being positioned
slightly offset
from said perimeter.
[00130] A puck launch pad 14 is provided with the game board system. The
launch
pad 14 has top 15 and bottom 16 sides and can be attached at end 26 to the end
5 of the
board 1 using a detachable hinged mechanism 18 (see Figure 9C). When the board
1 is
deployed for game play, the pair of folding legs 10, attached to the side
walls of the
board 1 proximal to the bottom side 3, are extended so that the board 1 can
rest on the
ground propped up an angle (see Figure 9D). In this way the launch pad 14 can
be
unfolded (see Figure 9E) and removed to be set up at a suitable distance from
the board
1. Pucks 21 can be shot from the top surface 15 of the launch pad 14 at the
target holes
formed in the board 1 as described above.
[00131] When not in use, the launch pad 14 can be reattached to the end 5 of
the board
1 and articulated using the hinge mechanism 18 to cover the top side 2 of the
board 1,
thereby protecting the game play surface and providing a convenient transport
format
for the game board system (see Figures 9A and 9B). At end 25 of the launch pad
14
there is provided a coupling means 27 for securing the launch pad 14 to a
corresponding coupling means 28 near the other end 4 of the board 1.
[00132] An accessory puck carrying case 22 can be configured to attach to the
cross
bars connecting the pair of legs 10, as shown in Figure 7B, to provide a
compact
storage and transport solution for the game board system.
Example 3¨ Fabric Game Board and System
[00133] In another embodiment, with reference to Figures 12 to 15, the game
board 1
is constructed of a fabric canvass essentially forming the top 2 and bottom 3
sides of
the gaming board and framing structure, with frame tubing components 39, 38, T-
connector 43 and corner connector 44. The canvass is an Oxford canvass and
comprises
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flaps, one on each of the four sides, which can be folded onto themselves and
stitched
to form tunnels through which the frame tubing 39 and 38 can be passed
through.
Alternatively, the flaps can each be wrapped around said tubing and secured
using
other means, such as Velcro strips or snap fittings. Frame tubing 39 forms the
end walls
4 and 5 of the game board and tubing 38 forms the side walls 6 and 7 of the
game
board. Corner fittings (connectors) 44 allow frame tubing 39 and 38 to be
connected to
complete the framing structure for the game board.
[00134] The legs 10 of the game board system can be connected to the framing
structure to the bottom side 3 of the gaming board using T-connectors 43. As
shown in
Figures 13 and 15, the T-connector 43 has a smaller diameter on one end,
opposite
from where the framing structuring tubing 38 is secured into the T-connector
43. This
smaller diameter end mates into the corner connector 44 in order to facilitate
attaching
the legs to the framing structure. If no T-connector 43 is used to assemble
the game
board system with legs, tubing 38 can be inserted directly into a corner
connector 44.
[00135] As shown in Figure 13, the legs are integrated into the frame
structure at a 90
degree angle relative to the game board. As a result, the game board is angled
off of a
resting surface at a 45 degree angle and the legs are resting on said surface
also at a 45
degree angle.
[00136] In this embodiment, the overall dimensions of the game board are 35
inches
long (high) and 21.5 inches wide. The tubing, connectors and legs are made of
polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC, a thermoplastic resin). The legs are 22.5
inches long
and have a 1 inch diameter. The cross tubing 39 is 19.75 inches long by 1 inch
in
diameter. The tubing 38 is longer than tubing 39 and can range from 29.75 to
33.25
inches long, and has a 1 inch diameter.
[00137] Further the dimensions of the corner connectors 44 are 2 inches in
height and
width and have a 1.25 inch diameter. The dimensions of the T-connectors 43 are
3.5
inches long (having the ends which interconnect with the frame tubing 38 and
corner
connectors 44. The end which mates with the frame tubing has a 1.25 inch
diameter and
the end which mates into the corner connector has a 1 inch diameter. The
height of the
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T-connector 43 which includes the opening for receiving the leg is 2 inches
and has a
1.25 inch diameter.
[00138] Netting is attached under each target hole using a nylon material
(fitting) with
metal rivets (or grommets) to delineate holes through which to thread the
netting. As
shown in Figure 26, the fitting 29 has material strips 45 and holes 46. One
side of the
strips 45 is stitched to the bottom side 3 of the game board canvass. Netting
9 is
threaded through the holes 46.
[00139] The disclosures of all patents, patent applications, publications and
database
entries referenced in this specification are hereby specifically incorporated
by reference
in their entirety to the same extent as if each such individual patent, patent
application,
publication and database entry were specifically and individually indicated to
be
incorporated by reference.
[00140] Although the invention has been described with reference to certain
specific
embodiments, various modifications thereof will be apparent to those skilled
in the art
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. All such
modifications as
would be apparent to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within
the scope
of the following claims.
28
