Abstract: A computer controlled toy car racing game that can be played by a plurality of players. If less than a maximum number of players is present at the beginning of a race, a computer controller operates the remaining race cars such that each race includes all of the race cars. The racing game includes numerous sensors positioned above the racing course that relay control commands to each of the race cars. If a race car is computer controlled or computer assisted, the control commands are created by the computer controller. If the race car is controlled by a player, the control commands include information from a throttle and steering wheel used by the player. Upon completion of a race, the computer controller controls each of the race cars to bring the race cars back to a point on the race course near the start/finish line.

Abstract: A game apparatus comprising at least two receptacles, at least two pumps for pumping fluid into the at least two receptacles and a weight-activated mechanism to deliver the receptacle contents to a location of the pumps after a receptacle is filled with a predetermined amount of fluid. Connections between the pumps and receptacle may be made such that a receptacle does not deliver its contents to the location of a pump filling it. However, the connections can also be made such that the receptacle delivers its contents to the location of the pump filling it.

Abstract: A diving game assembly and method includes a non-buoyant housing. A digital timer is mounted in the housing and is configured to count down from a selected number of minutes and seconds down to zero seconds. A power supply is electrically coupled to the timer. The timer includes a digital display for displaying the number of minutes and seconds remaining on the timer. To use the assembly, the timer is set, started, and then the housing is thrown into a pool of water. Players then attempt to bring the housing to the surface of the water before the timer reaches zero seconds.

Abstract: A method of conducting a racing series for competitors and team owners is disclosed. The racing series has a plurality of races divided into a first and second set of races with competitors racing in both sets of races. The competitors and team owners are awarded points after each race, with those points being adjusted between the two sets of races. The points of only a predetermined number of competitors and/or team owners are adjusted between the sets of races. Awards, including a championship, is awarded based on the points accumulated during the racing series.

Abstract: An arcade type amusement device is disclosed including a skill portion wherein a projectile such as a token is aimed at a target via a guidance mechanism such as an elongate chute. A deflector may be used to alter the path of the projectile, where the deflector is intermittently present along the trajectory of the projectile so as to require timing to engage the deflector. Upon a successful strike of the target, a ball is released down a helical track toward a rotating playing field interspersed with holes assigned various values. When a ball reaches the rotating playing field, it will rebound and roll until it falls within one of said holes, whereupon a point value is awarded based on the particular value of the hole. The player may receiver redemption tickets or points based on the point value awarded.

Abstract: A method for scoring a sporting event that offers all participants an opportunity to receive an award is described. A number of categories and a number of places to be awarded within those categories is determined. These numbers are multiplied and the sum is compared to the number of participants in the event that are eligible to receive an award. If the sum is greater than or equal to the number of eligible participants. Eligible participants are divided into categories and each place within those categories is given an award. The method eliminates the need for handicaps or classes and offers an objective method of scoring.

Abstract: A catching game is played by pendently supporting a plurality of playing cards from a device. The device is operated by one of the players to release at least one card. The released card falls under the influence of gravity and the air and falls in an unpredictable trajectory. A player must catch the card before it falls to an underlying surface.

Abstract: The present invention describes an apparatus and method for timing manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination competitions. Specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for timing cup stacking competitions. The apparatus of the present invention includes a mat which may incorporate a timer and the cups which are to be stacked on the mat. One embodiment of the present invention includes a multi-pieced timing mechanism which may be selectively interconnected to a mat. Further, a plurality of these timing mechanisms may be used remotely from the mat or with the mat such that a plurality of players may be used in individual mats.

Abstract: The present invention describes an apparatus and method for timing manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination competitions. Specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for timing cup stacking competitions. The apparatus of the present invention includes a mat which may incorporate a timer and the cups which are to be stacked on the mat.

Abstract: An amusement game that includes a horizontally-oriented rotating wheel, a coin chute to introduce a coin to a central region of said rotating wheel wherein the coin slides on its lateral side, a stationary guide to direct the coin in a radial direction from the central region of the wheel toward the periphery of the wheel, and a plurality of payoff positions located at angular positions on the wheel. A detector is provided to determine if a coin introduced to the wheel intersects with a payoff position.

Abstract: A system and method for maintaining audience interest in productions is disclosed. The invention includes provisions by which the interest of the audience is retained throughout the entire event. In one aspect, the invention includes a sporting event with anonymous contestants. In another aspect, the invention includes a limited performance-enhancing feature. The invention also includes provisions to expand audience participation and interaction. The invention also includes prizes that are awarded to the audience, based on several factors, including association with contestants.

Abstract: A western heritage ranch sports event includes elements which test horsemanship and other skills of the participants. The present event requires that one or more preselected herd animals (e.g., cows or calves) be cut or culled from a herd located at one end of an arena, and then driven or herded by the contestant(s) for the length of the arena, perhaps along a predetermined route, to a goal gate or enclosure. The object is to achieve this in the lowest total elapsed time. When more than a single competitor is participating, the competitors act as a team. More than one herd animal may be used as desired, with time credit given for successfully cutting and herding more than one animal. While roping the animals is not required, successful roping of the animals provides an additional time credit for the contestants, with unsuccessful roping attempts resulting in a time penalty.

Abstract: A tennis training simulation system is disclosed that improves both reaction time and ground stroke techniques within a limited physical training environment. This training system combines simulated service of a tennis ball from a service line over a virtual net, and delivery of real tennis ball to an awaiting tennis student. In the system of this invention, the tennis ball delivery system includes an automatic tennis ball machine equipped with an array of lights or LED's that simulate the service of a tennis ball from a service line, a simulated trajectory of the tennis ball over a virtual net, and a simulated first bounce of a tennis ball coupled immediately thereafter with real in-flight delivery of an actual tennis ball to an awaiting tennis student.

Abstract: A board game includes a game board with four food groups represented on four sides by individual spaces for particular food items in the food group. The object is to complete the preparation of a food item from each group. Each space assigns a preparation time for the food item, and further time adjustments can be made through “Simmer” and “Boil” cards having time adjustments and other instructions, and by landing on a “Stew” space that adds time. Rolling numbered dice and landing on a food item starts the preparation or process. The player must then land on a “Get Cooking” space and roll a pair of dice with time amounts displayed, with the displayed time amounts being subtracted from the accumulated preparation time. The first to complete this process for four food items wins.

Abstract: A western heritage ranch sports event includes elements which test horsemanship and other skills of the participants. The present event requires that one or more preselected herd animals (e.g., cows or calves) be cut or culled from a herd located at one end of an arena, and then driven or herded by the contestant(s) for the length of the arena, perhaps along a predetermined route, to a goal gate or enclosure. The object is to achieve this in the lowest total elapsed time. When more than a single competitor is participating, the competitors act as a team. More than one herd animal may be used as desired, with time credit given for successfully cutting and herding more than one animal. While roping the animals is not required, successful roping of the animals provides an additional time credit for the contestants, with unsuccessful roping attempts resulting in a time penalty.

Abstract: An arcade race game having interchangeable components allowing for the formation of various games. The object of the game is to hit a target causing actuation of the race progression indication device. The first player to reach a predetermined point activates a detection device which stops the game and signals the winner of the game. The game structure is preferably pre-wired to accommodate various games. The processor may also be programmed to accommodate various game formats.

Abstract: Disclosed is a laser gun for an arcade game. The laser gun may additionally provide a method of illumination of the laser path. Illumination may be accomplished by water mist in the path of the laser. The illuminated laser path provides a visible path for the contestants and provides an aesthetically pleasing effect.

Abstract: A game set that includes first and second guns that can be activated. The second gun is not activated if the first gun is activated before the second gun.

Abstract: A dispensing game system includes a prize capsule storage hopper above two automatic hopper loaders that replenish the game below with prize capsules as needed. Two Ferris wheels carry free swinging gondolas that receive and hold the prize capsules from the loaders. Two or more player-activated actuator arms located next to the outer edge of the Ferris wheels are used to hit targets attached to the moving gondolas, in turn causing the gondolas to tip forward and release the prize capsule, which then falls down and rolls into the prize opening for the player to collect.

Abstract: A game in which a player shoots water, air, light, a missile, or any other suitable projectile at a target. The target is activated when it is hit by the projectile. Activation of the target causes a plurality of lights to emit light in a predetermined order. The player wins the game by causing all of the lights to emit light.

Abstract: An electronic game apparatus constituting a body 101, comprising legs 103, and being capable of placement on an arbitrary surface. Further, a portion of the switches 102 of an operating portion are arranged in a location that differs from the surface on which a display panel 100 is provided, making operation easy.

Abstract: An arcade race game having interchangeable components allowing for the formation of various games. The object of the game is to hit a target causing actuation of the race progression indication device. The first player to reach a predetermined point activates a detection device which stops the game and signals the winner of the game. The game structure is preferably pre-wired to accommodate various games. The processor may also be programmed to accommodate various game formats.

Abstract: A race for street cars driven by non professional drivers on circuit-type race courses begins with an average car driver wishing to race other like drivers requesting an application for registration. The entrants, with now pre safety inspected cars, arrive at the track on the day and time set out in the application. Entrants are assigned to groups based on the performance potential of their cars, generally whether the car is a large or small sports or touring type car. After being briefed on race procedures and rules, the entrants undertake a practice driving session on the track course. Next, the entrants drive 10-15 qualifying laps with the time of each lap recorded. Based on the fastest qualifying lap time, a Performance Parity Time (PPT) is calculated for each entrant. Now ready to race and again by group, the entrants are released from the track pit in reverse order based on their respective differences in PPT. Each race, typically 50 laps, may require at least one pit stop.

Abstract: A game machine and information storage medium which can change at least one of game termination numbers specified for items including a lap number, life, time limit, player's vehicles, game points and game stages, for player's benefit, in comparison with the normal game termination number to be set by reception of a game charge for a normal one play of the game. This game machine comprises: an additional charge processing section for receiving an additional charge before game termination; a game termination number setting section for setting the game termination number for player's benefit in comparison with the normal game termination number set by reception of a game charge for a normal one play of the game; and a game termination processing section for processing for terminating the game when a specific number of laps or a time limit reaches the changed game termination number.

Abstract: A laser gun for an arcade game that provides a water mist in the path of the laser to allow an illumination of the laser path. The illuminated laser path provides a visible path for the contestants and provides an aesthetically pleasing effect.

Abstract: A game set that allows a plurality of players to play a game of draw with water guns. The water guns are drawn from holsters that can be worn by the players of the game. The water gun that is drawn last is deactivated so that only the player who draws the water gun first can spray water.

Abstract: The present invention is a method for training a player of a game in which an object is projected towards the player at a normal velocity range. Depending on the application of the training method, the normal range of velocity for the projected object in the game is determined. An apparatus is provided for projecting the object at a velocity greater than the normal velocity range. The object is projected towards the player at the velocity greater than the normal velocity range. This routine is repeated to improve ocular conditioning and physical objects of the game.

Abstract: A game set that allows a plurality of players to play a game of draw with water guns. The water guns are drawn from holsters that can be worn by the players of the game. The water gun that is drawn last is deactivated so that only the player who draws the water gun first can spray water.

Abstract: A management training game is played with vehicles that are moved around a playing area. The playing area is a large rectangle having a plurality of labeled blocks. Each team includes a leader, who rides on the vehicle, and rope controllers, who manipulate ropes connected to the vehicle, from outside of the playing area. Each team leader receives an assigned route, namely a list of blocks to which the vehicle must travel. Each team then attempts to move its vehicle along its assigned route, in a limited time, and without encountering paralysis due to interference with other vehicles or ropes. The game provides the players with an object lesson in the value of communication, creative thinking, leadership, teamwork, and cooperation, in solving difficult problems.

Abstract: A response measuring system for measuring the time required for a user or patient to respond to a prompting event includes a controller or computer connected to a plurality of annunciator driving outputs and a plurality of sensor input receivers. The controller also includes a timer responsive to both annunciator driving outputs and sensor input receivers; a controller memory stores response times. The annunciators can be lights or tactile vibrating stimulators for cuing or prompting the user into responding. The sensors, in general terms, sense the user's response and the timer is used to measure the interval required for the user to respond. The system includes a support member or housing for carrying and positioning the sensors and annunciators for a given experiment.

Abstract: An electronic game apparatus requiring skill in which one or more players individually attempt to outmaneuver the game apparatus on a time limit and motion or presence sensing detecting basis. Each player starts a play cycle of an electronic circuit within the game apparatus by manually pressing a start button on the housing. The player then has a preselected first period of time, e.g. five seconds, during which the presence sensor is deactivated to distance himself sufficiently from the game apparatus so that his presence would not be sensed by the motion detector of the apparatus at the end of the first time period. At the end of the first time period, the presence sensor is activated and the player has a certain second time period, e.g. ten seconds, to stealthfully reapproach the game apparatus without his or her presence being detected and to disarm the game apparatus by pressing a stop button or area of the housing.

Abstract: A method of conducting a racing competition among a plurality of racers comprising the steps of conducting qualifying races among the plurality of racers; awarding qualifying (Q) credits based on a predetermined formula and the results of each of the plurality of racers' qualifying races; arranging the racers in a reverse-qualifying order arrangement for the start of the race and assigning passing (P) credit values to the plurality of racers based on a predetermined formula and the racer's position in the reverse-qualifying starting order arrangement. The race is then started with the plurality of racers arranged in the reverse-qualifying order arrangement, the plurality of the racers are then awarded P credits during the course of the race based on a predetermined formula and the other racers each of the plurality of racers passes. At the finish of the race, the finish time and position of each of the plurality of racers is determined.

Abstract: A coin operated amusement device that includes a coin acceptor that directs coins down a coin chute and delivers the coins to a playing surface. A series of moveable pushers are oriented on the playing surface and push coins on the surface toward a ledge. The distance the pusher will travel toward the ledge is dependent on the timing of the insertion of the coin into the acceptor with respect to a moving indicator that constantly sweeps back and forth across a gauge. The pushers may be advanced independently or in unison. The object of the game is to time the insertion of coins so that the pusher will travel a maximum distance and push coins off the ledge.

Abstract: A hand-held game that includes a plurality of input devices, an audible output device, and a controller coupled to each of the input devices and to the audible output device. Preferably, each of the input devices require a different mechanical action for action, such as a pressure switch, a pull switch or a rotational switch. The controller outputs a first command signal to the audible output device that relates to a first selected input device. The controller then outputs a second command signal to the audible output device relating to a second selected input device when the first selected input device is actuated within a predetermined period of time. When the first selected input device is not actuated within the predetermined period of time, or when an input device other than the selected input device is actuated in response to the first command signal, the controller outputs an error command signal to the audible output device.

Abstract: A self-contained game is provided wherein a player attempts to win one of a plurality of premiums displayed within the game. The game includes a premium-display space surrounded by a first plurality and second plurality of indicators. The indicators may be incandescent lamps. A controller is provided which is configured to sequentially distinguish and extinguish individual indicators comprising said first and second pluralities in a manner to give the appearance of a single indication traveling amongst said first and second plurality of indicators. A player may arrest the apparent motion of said traveling indication by actuating an interface device in an attempt to stop the indication at a selected position corresponding to one of the indicators comprising the second plurality of indicators. The controller is configured to determine which indicator was last distinguished at the time the interface was actuated, and whether the last distinguished indicator is a member of the second plurality.

Abstract: A money counting game or contest in which one or more players attempt to manually count large amounts of currency within a predetermined, relatively long period of time to win a prize. Audio and video monitoring apparatus are provided to record the players.

Abstract: A columnar race game having columns that move in a vertical direction. The object of the game is to hit a target causing actuation of the column in the vertical direction. The first column to reach a uppermost point activates a detection device which stops the game and signals the winner of the game.

Abstract: A game for grabbing a playing marker before an opponent does to score a point. The game includes a playing mat with a pair of end edges and a pair of side edges. The playing mat also has a center point and a pair of base lines extending between the side edges of the playing mat. The center point is interposed between the base lines. Each of the base lines defines a base region extending from the respective base line and an adjacent associated end edge of the playing mat resting the playing mat. A marker piece is positioned on the center point of the playing mat. A first player places a hand on the playing mat in a first of the base regions and a second player places a hand on the playing mat in a second of the base regions. After a start command is issued the first and second players grab for the marker piece with the player grabbing the marker piece scoring a point.

Abstract: A hand-held game that includes a plurality of input devices, an audible output device, and a controller coupled to each of the input devices and to the audible output device. Preferably, each of the input devices require a different mechanical action for action, such as a pressure switch, a pull switch or a rotational switch. The controller outputs a first command signal to the audible output device that relates to a first selected input device. The controller then outputs a second command signal to the audible output device relating to a second selected input device when the first selected input device is actuated within a predetermined period of time. When the first selected input device is not actuated within the predetermined period of time, or when an input device other than the selected input device is actuated in response to the first command signal, the controller outputs an error command signal to the audible output device.

Abstract: A response measuring system for measuring the time required for a user or patient to respond to a prompting event includes a controller or computer connected to a plurality of annunciator driving outputs and a plurality of sensor input receivers. The controller also includes a timer responsive to both annunciator driving outputs and sensor input receivers; a controller memory stores response times. The annunciators can be lights or tactile vibrating stimulators for cuing or prompting the user into responding. The sensors, in general terms, sense the user's response and the timer is used to measure the interval required for the user to respond. The system includes a support member or housing for carrying and positioning the sensors and annunciators for a given experiment.

Abstract: A game with a time-estimating element wherein the time-estimating element is accomplished by starting and stopping a stopwatch. The game includes a game board having token spaces laid out thereon and wherein each player can elect to travel in any direction between adjacent token spaces during his/her given turn. The game includes a number of time-estimating challenges. The game can be won by outlasting the other players, i.e. having time remaining on his/her time-keeping timeline, or by being the first to collect a preset number of time-saver cards.

Abstract: In one form of game the player observes and must quickly respond to the rapidly changing conditions of one or more visually observed displays such as lights to avoid being sprayed by a liquid discharge. The games is so constructed that to effectively play the game the player must generally continuously observe the condition of the lights; to do so the player must maintain her face in position to be sprayed. In another preferred embodiment, the visually observed display is a screen such as a LCD on which changing action images appear. The player interacts by controlling a portion of the images in response to the action of other of the images and in accordance with the predetermined manner of play of the game. When she is not successful, she receives a spray.

Abstract: A water column game that includes a plurality of vertically oriented water columns, each having a housing disposed at the upper end thereof coaxial with and in open communication with the column. A float is freely disposed and captured within each housing. A target and valves are responsive to a game player for directing water into a lower end of each water column, such that water rises within the column and the housing in sequence so as to raise the float buoyantly within the housing. A switch is disposed at the upper end of each housing, and is responsive to contact by the float for indicating that the float has reached the upper end of the column. After each play, all water columns and housings are drained to a common sump. The water-fill volume of each column and housing is adjustable and all columns are fed from a common pump for equalizing the opportunity of each player to win.

Abstract: A system and particular components are disclosed to measure the reaction time of a user from a signal to start an athletic activity to the start of that activity and the completion time from the start to the finish of that activity. A remote control device responsive to manual input initiates a start signal and a signal to direct that activity toward one or more sensor pads to a user and to a data processor. One or more floor pads sense the presence of the user and signal the user's non-presence to the data processor. One or more sensor pads positioned spacedly distant from the floor pads sense manual contact by the user and signal that event to the data processor. The data processor determines the reaction time and the completion time of an activity from the times of the received signals, annunciates these times in visually cognizable form and stores the data.

Abstract: An action board game in which each player tries to be first to respond correctly to command indicators activated in a random sequence and at indeterminate times. Players try to be first to use the correct hand to operate a control matching the command indicator. Various levels of play can be selected ranging from matching colors to the equivalent of simultaneously playing multiple games of ping-pong. Players can participate as individuals or as teams.

Abstract: A method for playing a targeting game including launching aimed objects toward targeted receptacles until aimed objects are deposited in all targeted receptacles except a home receptacle. The player who deposits aimed objects into all of his targeted receptacles and further deposits and aimed object in the home receptacle wins the game or round depending on the format of play. Targeting game apparatus includes a target base containing holes which are the targeted receptacles and a target line panel spaced vertically above the base from which the aimed objects are aimed and dropped.

Abstract: In one form of game the player observes and must quickly respond to the rapidly changing conditions of one or more visually observed displays such as lights to avoid being sprayed by a liquid discharge. The games is so constructed that to effectively play the game the player must generally continuously observe the condition of the lights; to do so the player must maintain her face in position to be sprayed. Alternatively, the timing of the discharge may be tied to the player's game playing activity or may even occur on a random or apparently random basis.

Abstract: A game timer is constructed in a form resembling an eye with a movable eye lid. The lid is positionable to cover the eye and to uncover the eye in accordance with an objective of the game in the timing of events in the game. Because the eye is an icon of knowledge and power, the psychological connection of such an icon with a game of information, the answering of questions and the evaluation of intellect, composure and other competitive aspects of human nature is important to the success of the game. A numerical processor and associated elements of the device provide programmability for controlling various aspects of the game and for keeping score.

Abstract: A toy for projecting water or other fluid matter employs a generally unpredictable discharge actuating mechanism to provide a surprise discharge from a rotatable nozzle. The toy further employs a manually operable discharge stopping mechanism to allow users to strike or press on the toy to stop a discharge once it has begun. A variety of propulsion mechanisms may be employed for rotating the nozzle to allow discharge toward players in multiple directions.

Abstract: A collection game apparatus includes a random selection assembly which includes a base portion, a distributor pipe assembly supported by the base portion, and a funnel-shaped perimeter wall supported by a top portion of the distributor pipe assembly. A plurality of objects are provided to be collected, and the objects are grouped into color coded sets. The objects to be collected are randomly distributed by the distributor pipe assembly of the random selection assembly. A plurality of containers are provided for storing and carrying objects that are collected. Preferably, the random selection assembly and the objects to be collected, which are balls, float in water. The base portion of the random selection assembly is inflatable. The distributor pipe assembly includes a pipe-support body supported by the base portion. The pipe-support body includes a riser portion supported by the base portion and a baffle plate supported by a top part of the riser portion.