Interactive teaching and entertaining system for a spectator

Abstract

An interactive entertainment system for use during a sporting event to educate a spectator and keep score of the sporting event comprising a substantially planar member having first and second surfaces. Each surface includes indicia. The first surface has a playing portion including indicia having a general shape that resembles the playing surface of a venue where the sporting event is being played, and a second portion including a scorekeeping area having indicia used when scoring is conducted during the sporting event. The second surface can be used to keep various statistics, lineups, notes, autographs, logos, etc. and the scoring and positioning members that are not being used. The system also has a plurality of scoring members for being removably secured to the scorekeeping area of the first surface of the planar member. The scoring members have indicia resembling an object used during the sporting event. Further, the system includes a plurality of position members for being removably secured to the first surface. The position members include a likeness of participants in the sporting event and are moveable along the playing portion of the first surface so that the likeness of the participant can be positioned on the playing surface indicia in a location that corresponds to a position the participant is occupying on the playing surface.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an interactive learning and entertainment system that allows spectators to enhance their enjoyment and knowledge of a competition. More specifically, the present invention relates to a reusable, interactive learning and entertainment system that allows a person to learn about participants, strategies and fundamentals of a sport while recording statistics, such as scoring, and other happenings that occur during a sporting contest.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Many spectators purchase scorecards when entering a facility in which a sporting contest or the like will be played. Spectators purchase these scorecards as a vehicle for enhancing their enjoyment while watching the contest. For example, these scorecards permit the spectators to keep score of the contest being played, record infractions, such as penalties, record other happenings that occur and track the timing of the contest. The timing of a contest can include the half, inning, period, etc., in which action/play is taking place. While scorecards are used as a recording article, they do not teach the spectator about the positioning of the players during different parts of the game, strategies employed during the game or any other aspect of the game. Additionally, conventional paper or paperboard scorecards purchased at a sporting facility are not designed to be used for recording the events that occur during multiple games.

[0003] Reusable scoring sheets are known. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,308,989 to La Porta discloses such a scoring sheet for use by a spectator during baseball games. The scoring sheet includes a planar sheet member having a front surface and a rear surface. Each surface includes sections having rows and columns arranged for keeping score during baseball games. The surfaces are selectively markable with a marker to correspond to play results. In one embodiment, the planar sheet member is laminated to permit wiping away of markings in the sections on each surface. This scorecard does not permit a spectator to position offensive and defensive players on indicia representative of the playing field according to happenings in a game and strategies employed by a coach. As used herein, the term “coach” includes a manager or anyone who controls the participants of a competition. Additionally, a conventional scorecard does not allow the fan to associate the player's face with their full name or nickname when they are involved in the play of the game. As a result, the spectator does not learn the intricacies of the sport they are watching, the strategies of player placement and certain details about the players themselves that would make them feel closer to the player or the game itself.

[0004] There exists a need for an interactive entertainment system that can be used to score a contest, teach aspects, strategies and fundamentals of the contest, teach aspects of the participants and act as a novelty device that can be saved by the spectator and repeatedly used over the course of part of a playing season, a full playing season or longer.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] An aspect of the present invention relates to a reusable device for keeping records of the happenings that occur during a competition, such as a sporting competition. Known sporting competitions with which the present invention can be used include baseball (which also includes softball), soccer, basketball, hockey, golf, vehicle racing, football (including Irish Football, Australian Rules Football and rugby), cricket, hurling, lacrosse and the like.

[0006] Spectators, especially children, enjoy watching a sporting competition and feeling as if they are part of the excitement taking place on the field of play. The present invention provides them with such an opportunity. For example, the present invention permits the spectator to place members including representations of the players on the field at the start of the contest. It also allows spectators to move these members as the contest dictates. For example, the spectators can move the members to mirror the happenings on the playing surface during the contest and/or the offensive and defensive strategic moves made by the coaches during a game. This teaches the spectators about the actions employed by coaches and different strategies that unfold during the playing of the game. As evident from the discussions below, these members are formed of a material that can be repeatedly and easily secured and removed from a planar member. Static cling vinyl can be used to provide the members with the ability to be repeatedly separated from and secured to a surface during a contest, as well as over an entire season or more.

[0007] The present invention also presents the spectator with the chance to learn the names of the team members, their positions, uniform numbers and their faces. As a result, when the spectator hears the name of a team member, he will be able to put a face with the name and recall other information, including the team member's playing position, uniform number, strengths and weaknesses. This can heighten the personal connection felt by spectators about their favorite players.

[0008] The present invention generally comprises a planar sheet member having a front surface and a rear surface. One or both surfaces include sections having indicia arranged on it for a particular, predetermined purpose. For example, one section of the front surface includes indicia generally similar in shape and appearance to the scoring devices used in sporting venues. As used herein the term “venue(s)” include any location where a sport can be contested including rinks, arenas, stadiums, parks, fields and racetracks. The rear surface may be blank or include rows and/or columns in which the spectator can record lineups and scoring after each portion of a contest has ended. This rear surface also can be used to record autographs. An erasable marker can be used to record the results of the happenings in the contest on the rear surface and/or the front surface. In an embodiment, the planar sheet member is laminated to permit wiping away of markings in the sections on each surface. Alternatively, the planar sheet member is formed of a sheet of static cling vinyl.

[0009] An aspect of the present invention relates to an interactive entertainment system for use during a sporting event to educate a spectator and keep score of the sport event. The system comprises a substantially planar member having first and second surfaces. Each surface includes indicia. The first surface has a playing portion including indicia having a general shape that resembles the playing surface of a venue where the sporting event is being played, and a second portion including a scorekeeping area having indicia representative of facilities used when scoring is conducted during the sporting event. The system also has a plurality of scoring members for being removably secured to the scorekeeping area of the first surface of the planar member. The scoring members have indicia resembling an object used during the sporting event. Further, the system includes a plurality of position members for being removably secured to the first surface. The position members include indicia having a likeness of participants in the sporting event and are moveable along the playing portion of the first surface so that the likeness of the participant can be positioned on the playing surface indicia in a location that corresponds to a position the participant is occupying on the playing surface. The likeness of the participant can include photographic (both digital and film), non-photographic and drawn or computer graphic images of the participant.

[0010] Another aspect of the present invention relates to an interactive entertainment system that permits a user to follow along with a competition and record statistics from the competition. The system comprises a scoring and teaching device having first and second surfaces. The first surface has a first portion including indicia having the general shape and resembling an area on which the competition is contested and a second portion including a scorekeeping region having indicia representative of articles, such as scoreboards, used when recording statistics and scores during the competition. The system also includes a plurality of scoring members for being removably secured to the scorekeeping region of the first surface of the scoring and teaching device. The scoring members have indicia resembling an object used during the competition. Further, the system includes a plurality of position members for being removably secured to the first surface of the scoring and teaching device. The position members include a likeness of participants in the competition and are moveable along the first portion of the first surface so that the likeness of the participant can be secured on the first portion in a location that corresponds to the position the participant is occupying in the venue where the competition is being contested.

[0011] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a method for scoring and playing along with a competition as it is being contested. The method comprises the step of providing a scoring and teaching device comprising a first surface having a first section with indicia having a general shape of and resembling a venue where the competition is contested and a second section having indicia resembling a scoring system for the competition. The method also includes the steps of securely locating a plurality of scoring members at predetermined positions along the second section in response to occurrences in the competition. Each scoring member includes indicia resembling an item used during the competition. The method further includes the step of securely locating at least one position member having indicia with the likeness or non-photographic representation of a contestant participating in the competition in the first section when the contestant moves within the area where the competition is contested.

[0012] The present invention also includes an interactive entertainment system that permits a user to follow along with a competition. The system comprises a first member having first and second surfaces. The first surface comprises at least a first portion including indicia resembling a surface on which the followed competition is being contested. The system further comprises a plurality of members for being removably secured to the first member. The plurality of members each including static cling vinyl and having indicia associated with the competition.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1 is a front view of an interactive amusement and teaching system according to the present invention;

[0014] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the present invention;

[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates a sheet member including position and scoring members according to the present invention;

[0016] FIG. 4 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] FIG. 4A illustrates a sheet member including position and scoring members according to the present invention;

[0018] FIG. 5 is a rear view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4;

[0019] FIG. 6 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] FIG. 7 is a rear view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6;

[0021] FIG. 8 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] FIG. 9 is a rear view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8;

[0023] FIG. 10 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] FIG. 11 is a rear view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 10;

[0025] FIG. 12 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] FIG. 13 is a rear view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 12;

[0027] FIG. 14 is a rear view, opposite that of FIG. 1, of an alternative embodiment of the present invention including a conventional scoring sheet; and

[0028] FIGS. 15A-15F illustrate scoring members for use with the above-mentioned alternative embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] The present invention can be used while watching or following contests that have participants and employ strategies, such as sporting contests. For example, the present invention can be used while watching or following baseball, cricket, soccer, football (all types), rugby, basketball, hockey, tennis, golf, vehicle racing, lacrosse, track and field, and hurling. This list of sports is not exhaustive of the contests that the present invention can be used with, but merely representative. Also, the terms “watching” and “following” include when a spectator is present at the venue where the sport is being contested or is seeing the game using some form of media including television, radio and/or internet. For ease of explanation, the present invention will be described as it relates to baseball. However, this explanation is equally applicable to other sports and contests including those listed above.

[0030] An aspect of the present invention relates to an interactive entertainment system 10 that enhances a spectator's enjoyment and appreciation of a sport or other activity that is being watched. The system 10 provides a spectator with a combined novelty item, educational device and scorecard that can be reused over an extended period of time, such as one or more sporting seasons, or any part of the season. The system 10 allows a person to follow along with the sporting event, keep score of the event and educate themselves with regard to the players and the strategies being employed. Additionally, the system 10 is not limited to being used at a sporting facility. Instead, it can be used while a fan is watching an event on a television or the internet, or listening to the event on the radio or the internet.

[0031] With reference to the drawings, and in particular to FIGS. 1 and 2 thereof, the interactive entertainment system 10 according to the present invention is shown. The system 10 includes a planar sheet member 12 having a first surface 14 and a second surface 16. In one embodiment, the first surface 14 is a front surface of the sheet member 12 and the second surface 16 is a rear surface of the sheet member 12. Both surfaces 14, 16 include indicia relating to the sporting event. For example, the first surface 14 can include a representation of the playing field 20 for the sport. As used herein, the phrase “playing field” is not limited to a sporting venue with natural or artificial turf. Instead, this phrase relates to any locality where the competition being watched is taking place. For example, as discussed below, it includes racetracks, ice rinks, basketball courts, tennis courts, etc. The first surface 14 can also include indicia that represent a scoreboard/scoring device 30 for the competition being watched. The terms “scoreboard” and “scoring device” include the instruments commonly found at the locality where the competition is being played that show the numerical totals of players and/or teams participating in the event. These terms also include devices that indicate the relative positioning of competitors (order of the competitors) and how much/far each competitor is ahead/behind other competitors. For example, as discussed below, in auto racing, the scoring device 30 could include a lap counter/indicator, an indication of the racers occupying the top fifty (or more) positions in the race and what lap the lead racer is on at a given time. It is also contemplated that the scoreboard could be positioned on the second surface 16.

[0032] The second surface 16 of the substantially planar sheet member 12 can be fully blank or partially blank and include indicia that aids in recording the scoring from different portions of the competition and/or other related statistics. The specifics of the first surface 14 and second surface 16 will be explained below. In one embodiment, the planar sheet member 12 is formed of a material such as paper, paperboard, static cling vinyl or another substantially planar material that is well known in the art. In an alternative embodiment, the planar sheet member 12 can be formed of wood, hard plastics or other similar materials. Carrying cases (not shown) can also be provided for the members 12. In any of these embodiments, protective materials can be applied over the surfaces 14 and 16 to preserve them against wear. Additionally, the materials discussed below that cover the outer surfaces 14, 16 of the member 12 provide a surface on which the user can write or receive signatures, etc. before, during or after the competition. Also, with any of the above embodiments, the member 12 can have hinged sections (1 or more hinges 80) along which the member 12 is conveniently folded for storage and safekeeping, such as in the carrying case. The folding and easy stowage of the member 12 makes it convenient to carry. Additionally, the member 12 can be manipulated to mimic the playing surface at the event stadium. For example, as discussed below, one section 85 of member 12 can be folded at an angle to the rest of member 12 to mimic a perimeter wall of a stadium.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 1, the first surface 14 includes indicia 20 that have a general likeness of a baseball playing field. This includes a baseball diamond (infield) and at least part of an outfield. This field indicia 20 can cover any portion of the surface 14. In one embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 1, the field indicia 20 covers more than two-thirds of the surface 14. FIG. 1 illustrates the representation of the field indicia 20 that includes a baseball infield 21 and an outfield 22. The infield indicia 21 include first base 23, second base 24, third base 25, home plate 26 and batter's boxes 88. The indicia 21 also include a pitcher's mound 27, coaching boxes 28 and on-deck circles 29. The outfield indicia 22 include at least foul lines and a grass/turf appearing surface. Indicia identifying the dugouts/benches, bullpens and any applicable mascot(s) and the name of the home team can also be included. Further, indicia identifying the league or organization to which the competing teams or players belong can be included.

[0034] The remaining portion of the surface 14, for example the remaining one-third, can include indicia 40 representing the scoreboard 30. The indicia 40 are generally similar in shape and form to the scoreboard used at the venue where the baseball game is being played or a generic scoreboard that is well known. The scoreboard 30 can occupy more or less than one-third of surface 14. As shown in FIG. 1, the indicia in the scoreboard 30 of the surface 14 look similar to a scoreboard at a baseball stadium/park. The scoreboard 30 includes individual scoring spaces 41 for the visiting team's score and scoring spaces 42 for the home team's score. These scoring spaces 41, 42 include numerical indicia. When the score of the contest is not identified by the numerical indicia in the scoring spaces 41, 42, multiple scoring spaces 41, 42 can be used to indicate the score for the team(s) having such a score. For example, the score for the team(s) will be cumulative of the numerical indicia in the spaces 41, 42 that include scoring members (discussed below). This use of multiple scoring members in multiple spaces 41, 42 can be used as a fun way to teach a spectator, especially a young spectator, how to perform simple arithmetic including counting, addition, subtraction, etc.

[0035] The scoreboard indicia 40 also include scoring spaces 43 for the inning that the game is in, spaces 44 for the strike count, spaces 45 for the balls count and spaces 46 for the number of outs. Each space 41-46 includes indicium in the form of a number. Some spaces 41-46 can include two numbers. As seen in FIG. 1, the numbers increase from left to right. The term “spaces” does not suggest a particular shape. Even though the spaces 41-46 are shown as having a rectangular shape, these spaces 41-46 can have any shape. The section containing the scoreboard 30 can be folded up and positioned substantially perpendicular to the playing field 20 so that it can appear as an outfield wall.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 2, the second surface 16 can include indicia related to the game being played. The second surface 16 includes a lineup area 50 that has at least two columns 51. Each column 51 includes nine or more lineup slots/rows 52. Each slot 52 is intended to receive a player's name. As is well understood, the player names will be entered into the slots in the order that the players appear in the batting order/lineup. Also, each slot 52 will indicate the number that the batter is in the lineup and the name of the pitcher. For the American League, the lineup columns 51 may have ten slots 52, one for each batter including the designated hitter and one for the pitcher. For the National League, the lineup area may include nine slots 52.

[0037] In an alternative embodiment, all or part of the second surface 16 could be left blank. In this embodiment, the second surface 16 could be used, for example, to collect autographs, place unused scoring and positioning members and/or keep statistics of interest to the spectator. A coating may or may not cover the portion of the second surface 16 used to collect autographs so that the autograph will become a permanent part of the device. In another alternative embodiment, the second surface 16 could include indicia that represents a conventional score sheet 400 as shown in FIG. 14. This score sheet indicia could be covered with any known covering that can be temporarily written upon by using a grease pen, an erasable marker or dry erase type marker 90. Suitable coatings for the second surface 16 are discussed herein with respect to the first surface 14. In another embodiment, a coating does not cover the conventional score sheet.

[0038] At least one area 60 on the second surface 16 can also be used to keep the individual number of runs that occur in each inning. Alternatively, the area 60 could include rows and columns for keeping individual statistics for each batter. For example, how many hits, walks, strikeouts and runs that each batter scores. An area can also be provided for keeping the statistics of the pitchers including a pitch count, number of balls thrown, strikes thrown and earned runs given up. Moreover, this or any other portion of the second surface 16 could include preprinted autographs and/or messages to the spectators, such as advertisements. Additionally, an area can include rows and columns that permit the user to record the league standings for a given division and/or conference, among other statistics of interest.

[0039] The sheet member 12, formed of a paper material, for example, includes the indicia discussed herein. The indicia on surface(s) 14, 16 of the sheet member 12 can be applied by known printing processes such as conventional offset printing with colored inks. In one embodiment, the indicia can be applied by conventional flexography techniques in which a flexible material is used to transfer ink to the sheet member 12. Alternatively, known digital image printing techniques can also be used.

[0040] All or only a portion of the sheet member 12 is covered with a material that protects the indicia on the surfaces 14, 16 and permits the sheet member 12 to be written on and then wiped off. The covering materials, which include coatings, also permit items to be removably positioned on the surfaces 14, 16. The covering materials include UV coatings, vinyl laminates or any other known coatings that can cooperate with the scoring and positioning members 102, 103. For example, in one embodiment, the coating that covers the sheet member 12 is a polyester based UV curable coating available from PPG Industries under the reference number P30204802. In other embodiments, the coating could be a Resin Based gloss overprint varnish available under the reference number RB-5720. In yet another embodiment, a laminate such as a polyester/ethylene vinyl acetate laminate can cover the sheet member 12.

[0041] The sheet member 12 has a smooth surface for facilitating marking on its covered surfaces 14, 16 with a grease pen, an erasable marker or dry erase type marker 90 when the spectator needs to write. For example, the marker 90 can be used to record a lineup on the second surface 16 in the columns 51 and rows 52. One respective player's name is written in each lineup/batting order row 52. Alternatively, the marker 90 can be used to write the other statistics, etc., discussed above, on any portion of the second surface 16. The marker 90 can also be used on the first surface 14. Additionally, the pitch count and individual inning scores can be recorded in section 60. These markers are well known. Alternatively, removable, static cling vinyl members, such as those discussed herein, could be used in place of the marker on either side of the surface 12.

[0042] The system 10 of the embodiments according to the present invention also include a second sheet 100 carrying a plurality of removable members 101 that can be securely positioned on the sheet 12. In a preferred embodiment, these members 101 are formed of a conventional clear static cling vinyl material such as Flexmark CV600 available from Flexcon. The indicia discussed herein that are carried by the removable members 101 can be applied by conventional flexography or other printing processes as discussed above. For example, the indicia can be applied using rollers and printing plates that are used in known flexography processes. Alternatively, the indicia can be applied with digital techniques such as clear static cling ink jet printing that uses HEWLETT PACKARD® Indigo digital presses in which an Electroink liquid toner is applied to the clear polyester vinyl static cling film.

[0043] In one embodiment, the members 101 are cut or punched from a single sheet of static cling vinyl. In an alternative embodiment, the members 101 are formed by laminating multiple pieces of static cling vinyl together in a known process. Additionally, a front surface and/or rear surface of each member 101 can be coated with a UV coating or a vinyl. In one embodiment, the UV coating used to cover the printed indicia on the members 101 includes a UV varnish available from Craig Adhesives under the reference number 1091 X.

[0044] Static cling vinyl allows the members 101 to be repeatedly, removably secured to a predetermined place on the member 12 and the second sheet 100 over an extended period of time such as a season or more. For example, the members 101 can be positioned on the first surface 14 at the start of the contest. After the contest begins, the members 101 can be constantly moved in response to scoring changes, player position changes and time clock changes. The UV coating used to cover the surfaces 14, 16 and the members 101 permits numerous movements of the members 101 without compromising the security of the connection between the members 101 and the sheet 100 or the member 12 over time. The use of static cling vinyl also eliminates any sticky residue on the surface of the member 12. In an embodiment, the static cling vinyl can be laminated over substrates that form the members 101.

[0045] Though not as preferred, other well-known ways of holding the members 101 to the member 12 can also be used. However, these alternative ways are limited in their number of uses. For example, they cannot be used repeatedly over the course of a season and/or they are too bulky and not as attractive. These other ways include magnets, cooperating hook and loop fasteners, removable adhesives, cohesives and pressure sensitive adhesives.

[0046] In the illustrated embodiment, the removable members 101 have a generally round shape. However, any shape can be used. The removable members 101 include scoring members 102 that have the shape and carry indicia giving them the appearance of a baseball. The removable members 101 also include player position members 103 that carry the names and a photographs or images of players on the team. Each position member 103 includes one name and one photograph/image. A third set 104 of members 101 can includes the names and pictures/images of the mascots and symbol of the team that can also be used as scoring members. Additionally, some of the members 101 can have indicia related to coupons, promotions or sponsor information, etc. Blank members 105 can be included for future use by the spectator. For example, the blank members 105 can be written upon using a permanent and/or erasable writing implement, such as marker 90, to include indicia relating to a new player added to the team lineup. Also, additional sets of the members 101 could be sold or otherwise provided to the members when changes happen to the team roster. In other sports, the members 101 may have a round, oval or elliptical shape. Alternatively, the members 101 can come in the shape of an item associated with the contest such as a basketball, soccer ball, racecar, etc (See FIGS. 15A-15F).

[0047] A method of using the system 10 should be apparent from the above description. However, a further explanation follows. A spectator obtains the system 10 in a similar manner to the way he would obtain a scorecard. The spectator will then begin to follow along with the competition. The spectator puts the names of the starting lineups in the lineup area 50 using the marker 90 or members 103. The spectator will also place at least one scoring member 102 in a box in each of the spaces 41-46. Position members 103 carrying the picture and/or name of each player are secured to the area that corresponds to the position the player is playing during the game. The scoring members 102 and position members 103 stay in place as a result of the static friction created when the static cling vinyl of each member 102, 103 engages with the coating covering the surfaces of the substantially planar member 12. When the team comes off the field and begins to bat, the position members 103 including indicia representing the players can be left on the indicia 20 representing the field or taken off and placed to the side as if they were in the dugout. Then, as the players go out to bat, their respective position members are put onto the field indicia 20. For example, each position member 103 is first placed in the on-deck circle 29, then a batter's box 88 and then on the base that the batter reaches. As the batter rounds the bases, his position member 103 is moved accordingly.

[0048] As the batter is at the plate, the spectator can move the scoring members 102 in the boxes of the strike spaces 44 and the ball spaces 45. Also, the scoring members 102 can be moved in spaces 41, 42, 43 and 46 as the score, inning and outs change, respectively. This allows the spectator to follow along with the game and learn what constitutes a change in the scoring.

[0049] During the game, the coach may move players in the playing field and/or substitute players. As this occurs, the spectator will change the location of the position members 103 that correspond to the players that are shifting in the field or are part of the substitution. Following along with the happenings in the game will allow the spectator to follow the strategies being employed by the coach. This will teach the spectator the strategies of the game and make him/her feel more involved in the game. The movement of the players will also teach the spectator the player's names and positions, as well as their strengths and weakness that will be evident from the coaches moves.

[0050] As discussed above and shown in FIGS. 4-7, the present invention can be applied to sports other than baseball. The elements discussed below that are in common with those discussed above will use the same reference numerals. In FIG. 4, the first surface 14 of the sheet member 12 includes indicia 150 that have the same general shape and look as a hockey rink. The first surface 14 also has indicia 152 that have the same shape and appearance as penalty boxes. The first surface 14 also includes a scorekeeping area 140 having scoring spaces 141 for the visiting team score, spaces 142 for the home team score and spaces 143 for the period. Also, spaces 145 have been included so that the spectator can write in the number of shots on goal. Scoring members 102 (FIG. 4A), in the shape of hockey pucks or, alternatively, round and carrying indicia showing hockey pucks, and positioning members 103 can be used as discussed above with respect to baseball to keep score during the game. The scoring members 102 can include indicia having a likeness of a hockey puck. Also, members 104 can have the team name, team logo, team mascot or a symbol of the league in which the team plays. Other indicia, such as the word “goal”, can also be applied to the scoring members 102. Each positioning member 103 includes indicia having a likeness of a player. The indicia can include a screened digital or other type of photograph or picture, or a non-photographic representation of the player. The indicia can also include a name, number and/or position for the player.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 5, the second surface 16 of the sheet member 12 can include a lineup area 50 having columns 51 and rows 52 in which the players name can be inserted next to a designation for their position. In place of a player's name, a removably secured positioning member 103 including indicia that represents an image of a player and/or the name of the player can be placed next to the indicia relating to the players position. In a preferred embodiment, the member is held on the second surface 16 using static cling vinyl as discussed above.

[0052] In another embodiment, the lineup area 50 is sized so that scoring members 102 can be positioned next to each players or member 103 after the player has recorded a goal or an assist. These scoring members 102 can include indicia that are similar to the words “goal” and “assist”. Alternatively, the indicia on scoring members 102 could include just a “G” or an “A”. As a result, the user can position scoring members 102 next to the name/positioning member 103 of each player so he/she will have a record of how many goals and total points each player recorded during a given game.

[0053] In an alternative embodiment, all or part of the second surface 16 could be left blank. In this embodiment, the second surface 16 could be used, for example, to collect autographs, place unused scoring and positioning members and/or keep statistics of interest to the spectator. A coating or laminate may or may not cover the portion of the second surface 16 used to collect autographs so that the autograph will become a permanent part of the device.

[0054] Another embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 6. In this embodiment, the first surface 14 of the sheet member 12 includes indicia 250 that have the same general shape and look as a soccer field including a midfield area 253 and two goal areas 254. The first surface 14 also has indicia 252 that have the same general shape and appearance as soccer nets within the indicia 254 having the likeness of the goal area. The first surface 14 also includes a scorekeeping area 240 having scoring spaces 241 for keeping the visiting team score, spaces 242 for keeping the home team score and spaces 243 for indicating which half is being played. Also, spaces 245 have been included so that the spectator can record when a player has received a red card or a yellow card. Scoring members 102, in the shape of soccer balls or that carry indicia showing a soccer ball, and positioning members 103 (FIG. 3) can be used as discussed above with respect to baseball and hockey.

[0055] FIG. 7 illustrates the second surface 16 of the sheet member 12. The second surface 16 can include a lineup area. Also, as with all of the other embodiments, the second surface 16 could include columns 51 and rows 52 in which the standings of a league to which the team being watched belongs can be recorded. This can be done using the erasable marker 90 or removable members 105 that include indicia representing the teams in the league. For example, the indicia can include the team name, logo, mascot or other related symbol. The second surface 16 can also include a roster area and a scorekeeping area as discussed above with respect to hockey. Alternatively, all or part of the second surface 16 could be left blank so that spectators could write or apply the above-discussed members to it as they choose.

[0056] FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of the present invention as it relates to football. In this embodiment, the member 12 includes a first surface 14 having indicia 270 in the likeness of a football field. Indicia 270 include yardage markers 275 and hash marks 276 as illustrated. The first surface 14 can also include scoring area indicia 280 that permits a spectator to keep score of the contest being played. The scoring area indicia 280 includes two sets 282 of individual scoring spaces 284 that have indicia 286 representing numbers. The indicia 286 in the spaces 284 allow the spectator to record any score that can be achieved in a football game for both teams. Placing one or more scoring members 102 in the appropriate spaces 284 will indicate the score of the game. The first surface 14 can also include spaces 285 for the down, the quarter of the game being played and the number of yards needed for a first down or a touchdown. Each of these spaces 285 includes indicia representing numbers. The scoring members 102 can be positioned in down spaces 285 to show the quarter, the down and the number of yards to go for a first down or a touchdown.

[0057] Even though the spaces 284 and 285 are shown as being square, as with the other embodiments, they can have any shape including circular, oval or elliptical. In one embodiment, the spaces 284 and 285 have a shape substantially similar to that of a football.

[0058] In this embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, the scoring members 102 have the general shape of a football. The scoring members 102 can also include indicia found on a football such as a league or team logo, name or the like. Alternatively, the scoring members 102 can be round and have indicia associated with a football.

[0059] Positioning members 103 (FIG. 3) can be securely located on the first surface 14 to show the lineup of one or more of the teams playing. The positioning members 103 can also be moved from place to place on the first surface 14 as the play during the game moves up and down the field. These positioning members 103 include indicia that represent the name of the player, the position of the player and/or an image or other likeness of the player, as discussed above. In another embodiment, the members 105 are included and have indicia relating to the team such as its name, symbol and/or mascot. As with the other members 101, some members 105 may be left intentionally blank so that the user can write in the names of new players. In an embodiment, the positioning members 103 are circular, oval or elliptical. Alternatively, they are in the shape of a football, a helmet or other item associated with the game.

[0060] The second surface 16, as shown in FIG. 9, can include indicia 260 representing the positions associated with football. For example, it can include indicia representing a quarterback, a punter, a right guard, a tackle, etc. The rear surface 16 can also include columns 51 and rows 52 for recording who scored a touchdown, an extra point and a safety using the marker 90 or the positioning members 103 in a manner similar to that discussed above. The marker 90 or positioning members 103 can also be used in combination with the columns 51 and rows 52 to record how many interceptions were thrown by a quarterback, who recorded an interception and who fumbled a ball. Other statistics including timeouts used and remaining can also be recorded.

[0061] In an alternative embodiment, all or part of the second surface 16 could be left blank. In this embodiment, the second surface 16 could be used, for example, to collect autographs, place unused scoring and positioning members and/or keep statistics of interest to the spectator. A coating may not cover the portion of the second surface 16 used to collect autographs so that the autograph will become a permanent part of the device.

[0062] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, an embodiment of the present invention can also be used when following basketball games. In this embodiment, the first surface 14 can include indicia 310 that are similar to a basketball court. The indicia 310 include likenesses of center court 312, the keys 314 and the baskets 316. As with the other embodiment, the boundaries of the playing surface are also shown. The first surface 14 further includes spaces 350 having indicia 351 in the form of numbers. These spaces 350 include scoring spaces 352 that permit any score to be kept for both teams. This is accomplished by placing scoring members 102 in one or more of the scoring boxes 352 until the current score is indicated. The spaces 350 also include team foul boxes 354 and period boxes 356 that include numerical indicia. The number of team fouls can be displayed by placing a scoring member 102 in the proper box 354. The scoring members 102 can also be used with the boxes 356 to keep track of the period. Similarly, the number of timeouts remaining for each team can be tracked using scoring members 102 and respective time out boxes (not shown). The boxes 352, 354 and 356 do not need to be square. Instead, they can include any of the above-discussed shapes.

[0063] Positioning members 103 (FIG. 3) can include indicia that represent the players on the team. For example, the positioning members can include the name and a likeness of each player. The indicia can also identify the position of each player. Further, the positioning members 103 can be placed on the court in the location where the player will be positioned when on offense (trying to score) and/or defense (defending a basket). The positioning members 103 can also be easily moved to other places on the court, including the bench when the player leaves the game.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 11, the second surface 16 includes columns 51 and rows 52 for keeping individual player scores. This can be done using marker 90 or positioning members 103. An area for tracking each player's fouls can also be provided. In an alternative embodiment, all or part of the second surface 16 could be left blank. In this embodiment, as with the embodiments discussed above, the second surface 16 could be used, for example, to collect autographs, place unused scoring and positioning members and/or keep statistics of interest to the spectator. A coating may not cover the portion of the second surface 16 used to collect autographs so that the autograph will become a permanent part of the device.

[0065] The scoring members 102 and positioning members 103 have the shape of a basketball (circular), a net or other articles related to basketball.

[0066] In an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, the first surface 14 can include indicia 410 providing a representation having the likeness of a racetrack (including race, road and off-road courses) for vehicle racing. Vehicle racing can include car, cart, truck, motorcycle, etc. racing. While the racetrack indicia 410 are shown as being oval with a pit row, it can have any shape including that of a famous raceway, Formula-1 course or other racetracks. The indicia 410 could include a photograph or custom artwork of a particular racetrack or facility. The first surface 14 also includes a plurality of position boxes 420 and lap boxes 430. The position boxes 420 and the lap boxes 430 include numerical indicia 425. The position boxes 420 are sequentially numbered from 1 to any number. For example, the boxes 420 can be numbered from 1 to 42. In alternative embodiments, the boxes are numbered higher than 42 and lower than 42. During a race that the user is watching, a positioning member 103 (FIG. 3) related to the person occupying a position in the race order is placed in the appropriate position box 420. These positioning members 103 include indicia relating to the driver such as his/her name, number and/or car make. When the drivers move up or down in the racing positions, their positioning members 103 are moved accordingly within the position boxes 420. Also, as a lap is completed by the leader, one or more scoring members 102 is moved so that the completed number of laps is displayed on the first surface 14 by the indicia in the lap boxes 430 in which the scoring members 102 are positioned.

[0067] The positioning members 103 and the scoring members 102 can both have the shape of a steering wheel (circular), a racecar, a race flag or another item associated with racing. Members 105 can also include indicia that represent the racing circuit or other similar organization being watched.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 13, the second surface 16 can include columns 51 and rows 52 in which the circuit standings (for example, in NASCAR®, the WINSTON CUP® Standings) can be recorded. Each driver can be identified by a name written in using marker 90 or a positioning member 103. Also, the number of races and laps completed by each driver can be recorded on the second surface 16. Furthermore, a member having indicia relating to a symbol of an automobile manufacturer can be used to indicate the type of vehicle driven by each driver. In an alternative embodiment, all or part of the second face 16 may be left blank and free of a coating or laminate as discussed above.

[0069] The present invention can have a low manufacturing cost with regard to both materials and labor, thereby making it economically available to the spectator to purchase and keep as a novelty item. Also, new position members 103 reflecting updates and other changes to the team lineup can be easily and quickly produced. They can also be easily distributed to spectators so that spectators that bring their system to the stadium can stay current with lineup changes.

[0070] It is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the above description or illustrated in the drawings. Numerous modifications and changes will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, all of the above-discussed indicia representing a playing venue could be provided by a photograph or custom artwork of a known venue such as Fenway Park or the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. For example, the terms front and back are relative terms used for orientation purposes and are not restrictive.

[0071] Additionally, while the foregoing description of the present invention relates to sporting activities, the present invention is applicable to other types of activities that have participants and utilize strategy. For example, the present invention could be used with known video game systems such as those currently available form Nintendo®, Sony® and Microsoft®. These games are typically played using a television monitor or computer monitor.

Claims

1. An interactive entertainment system for use during a sporting event to educate a spectator and keep score of the sporting event, said system comprising:

a substantially planar member having first and second surfaces, said first surface having a playing portion including indicia having a general resemblance of the playing surface of a venue where the sporting event is being played and a second portion including a scorekeeping area having indicia generally resembling an article used when scoring is conducted during the sporting event;

a plurality of scoring members for being removably secured to said scorekeeping area of said first surface of said planar member, said scoring members having indicia resembling an object used during the sporting event or an image relating to a team playing in the event; and

a plurality of position members for being removably secured to said planar member, a plurality of said position members each including a likeness of a respective participant in the sporting event and being moveable along the first surface.

2. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 1 where in said scoring members and said position members are removably secured to said planar member by static.

3. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 2 wherein said planar member, said scoring members and said position members are covered by a laminated vinyl.

4. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 1 wherein said venue comprises a baseball stadium, and said indicia on said playing portion forms a portion of a baseball playing field including an infield diamond.

5. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 4 wherein said indicia on said playing portion includes indicia representing home plate, first base, second base and third base.

6. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 4 wherein the indicia of said scorekeeping area represents a baseball stadium scoreboard.

7. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 4 wherein said scoring members have indicia representing a baseball.

8. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 1 wherein said position members are removably secured to the first surface in positions corresponding to their positions in the field of play when the game begins.

9. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 1 wherein individual statistics for each participant can be kept on the second surface.

10. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 1 wherein each position member includes indicia having for a likeness or non-photographic representation of a participant.

11. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 1 wherein said venue comprises a hockey arena, and said indicia on said playing portion is in the shape of a hockey rink.

12. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 11 wherein said scoring members have indicia representing a hockey puck.

13. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 1 wherein said venue comprises a racing stadium, and said indicia on said playing portion is in the shape of a car racing track.

14. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 13 wherein said scoring members have indicia representing members associated with vehicle racing.

15. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 14 wherein the indicia representing members associated with vehicle racing include steering wheels.

16. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 14 wherein the indicia representing members associated with vehicle racing include contest flags.

17. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 1 further including a marker for recording on the first and second surfaces.

18. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 1 wherein the second side includes a plurality of rows and columns for recording and displaying information related to the contest.

19. An interactive entertainment system that permits a user to follow along with a competition, said system comprising:

a scoring and teaching device having first and second surfaces, said first surface having a first portion including indicia having the general resemblance of an area on which the competition is contested and a second portion including a scorekeeping region having indicia for recording scoring during the competition;

a plurality of scoring members for being removably secured to said scorekeeping region of said first surface of said scoring and teaching device, said scoring members having indicia resembling an object used during the competition or an image relating to at least one competitor;

a plurality of position members for being removably secured to said first surface of said scoring and teaching device, a plurality of said position members each including a likeness of a respective participant in the competition and being moveable along the first portion of the first surface so that the likeness of the participant can be positioned in the first portion in a location that corresponds to the location the respective participant is occupying in the area where the competition is being contested.

20. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 19 where in said scoring members and said position members are removably secured to said planar member by static.

21. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 20 wherein scoring members and said position members include a static cling vinyl.

22. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 19 wherein said venue comprises a facility for playing baseball, and said indicia on said first portion forms a portion of a baseball playing field including an infield diamond.

23. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 22 wherein the indicia of said scorekeeping region represents a baseball stadium scoreboard.

24. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 23 wherein said scoring members have indicia representing a baseball.

25. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 22 wherein said position members are removably secured to the first surface in positions corresponding to their positions in the field of play when a baseball game begins.

26. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 19 wherein each position member includes a likeness or non-photographic representation of a participant.

27. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 19 wherein said venue comprises a hockey arena, and said indicia on said playing portion is in the shape of a hockey rink.

28. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 27 wherein said scoring members have indicia representing a hockey puck.

29. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 19 wherein said venue comprises a racing stadium, and said indicia on said playing portion is in the shape of a vehicular racing track.

30. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 29 wherein said scoring members have indicia representing members associated with vehicle racing.

31. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 30 wherein the indicia representing members associated with vehicle racing include steering wheels.

32. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 30 wherein the indicia representing members associated with vehicle racing include contest flags.

33. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 19 further including a marker for recording on the first and second surfaces.

34. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 19 wherein the second side includes a plurality of rows and columns for recording and displaying information.

35. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 33 wherein said information includes the name, number or make of a vehicle of the participant.

36. Method for scoring and playing along with a competition as it is being contested, said method comprising the steps of:

providing a scoring and teaching device comprising a first surface having a first section with indicia having a general shape of and resembling a venue where the competition is contested and a second section having indicia resembling a scoring system for the competition;

securely locating a plurality of scoring members at predetermined positions along said second section in response to occurrences in the competition, each said scoring member including indicia that resembles an item used during the competition or an image relating to a team in the competition;

securely locating at least one position member having indicia with the likeness of a contestant participating in the competition in said first section when the contestant moves within the area where the competition is contested.

37. The method according to claim 36 including the step of moving at least one position member as the position of a contestant changes in the venue where the competition is being contested.

38. The method of claim 36 including the step of moving at least one scoring member as the score of the competition changes or a happening occurs in the competition that is recorded by an official scorer for the competition.

39. The method of claim 36 wherein the scoring members and the position members are secured to the first surface using static cling vinyl.

40. The method of claim 36 including the step of writing the contestants names on a second surface of the device.

41. An interactive entertainment system that permits a user to follow along with a competition, said system comprising:

a first member having first and second surfaces, said first surface comprising at least a first portion including indicia resembling a surface on which the followed competition is being contested; and

a plurality of members for being removably secured to said first member, said plurality of members each including static cling vinyl and having indicia associated with the competition.

42. The interactive entertainment system of claim 41 wherein said first surface includes a second portion comprising a scorekeeping region that has indicia representing equipment used when recording statistics and scores during the competition.

43. The interactive entertainment system of claim 42 wherein said first surface includes a protective covering extending over said indicia of said first portion and said indicia of said second portion.

44. The interactive entertainment system of claim 41 wherein at least a plurality of said plurality of members include indicia resembling an object used during the competition or an image relating to at least one competitor.

45. The interactive entertainment system of claim 41 wherein said plurality of members include scoring members that are positioned in a second portion of said first surface, and wherein the indicia on said scoring members resemble an article used to perform said competition.

46. The interactive entertainment system of claim 45 further comprising a plurality of position members for being removably secured to said first surface, at least a plurality of said position members each including a likeness of a participant in the competition and being moveable along the first portion of the first surface so that the likeness of the participant can be positioned in the first portion in a location that corresponds to the position the participant is occupying on the surface where the competition is being contested.

47. The interactive entertainment system of claim 41 wherein said plurality of members are each formed of at least one layer of static cling vinyl material.

48. The interactive entertainment system of claim 47 wherein said indicia associated with the competition is carried on said at least one layer of static cling vinyl material.

49. The interactive entertainment system of claim 41wherein said competition is selected from the group consisting of baseball, football, soccer, hockey, vehicle racing and basketball.

50. The interactive entertainment system of claim 41 wherein at least a plurality of said plurality of members has a shape of an article used during the competition.

51. The interactive entertainment system of claim 50 wherein said shape includes a shape of a football.

52. The interactive entertainment system of claim 50 wherein said shape includes a shape of a hockey puck.

53. The interactive entertainment system of claim 50 wherein said shape includes a shape of a ball or a steering wheel.

54. The interactive entertainment system of claim 41 wherein said first surface includes a protective covering extending over said indicia of said first portion.

55. The interactive entertainment system of claim 54 wherein said protective covering includes a vinyl material.

56. The interactive entertainment system of claim 55 wherein said vinyl material includes a static cling vinyl.

57. The interactive entertainment system of claim 48 wherein said static cling vinyl layer and said indicia associated with the competition are covered by a protective coating.

58. The interactive entertainment system of claim 57 wherein said coating includes a UV coating.

59. An interactive entertainment system for use during a sporting event to educate a spectator and keep score of the sporting event, said system comprising:

a substantially planar member having first and second surfaces, said first surface having a playing portion including indicia having a general resemblance of the playing surface of a venue where the sporting event is being played; and

a plurality of members for being removably secured to said first surface of said planar member, said members each having indicia resembling either an object used during the sporting event, an image relating to a team playing in the event or a likeness of a respective participant in the sporting event.

60. The interactive entertainment system according to claim 59 wherein said first surface further comprises a second portion including a scorekeeping area having indicia generally resembling an article used when scoring is conducted during the sporting event.