Collapsible Board (e.g., Folding) Patents (Class 273/285)
  • Patent number: 11878209
    Abstract: An exercise mat is fashioned as a tripartite mat assembly having a padded upper surface secured to a stiff lower surface. The mat has a handle disposed on a one (1) of the mat assembly sections and also includes a securing fastener capable of securing the exercise mat in a closed configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Inventor: Peter Cassels
  • Patent number: 11825939
    Abstract: A folding table includes a tabletop, a left folding mechanism, a left table leg, a right folding mechanism and a right table leg. The folding table is foldable by coordination of the tabletop, the left folding mechanism, the left table leg, the right folding mechanism and the right table leg. Once folded, the tabletop envelops the left folding mechanism, the left table leg, the right folding mechanism and the right table leg, such that the folding table appears as a long stripe shape and has a rectangular cross section, providing effects of a minimal occupied space and ease of portability when folded, and better stability and a bearing ability when unfolded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2023
    Assignee: SPORT DIVERSIONS INC.
    Inventor: Yi-Ting Tsai
  • Patent number: 11766603
    Abstract: A foldable chessboard box is provided in the present application, including a first body and a second body which are hinged through a connecting portion so that the first body can be opened or buckled relative to the second body. The first body is provided with a first surface and a second surface, and the second body is provided with a third surface and a fourth surface. Both the first surface and the third surface are provided with a receiving slot for accommodating chess pieces. Both the first surface and the third surface are provided with a chessboard pattern. The second surface is provided with at least one first installation slot, and the fourth surface is provided with at least one second installation slot, wherein each first installation slot is fixedly provided with a first supporting portion, and each second installation slot is fixedly provided with a second supporting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2023
    Assignee: MAILI LIFE TECHNOLOGY (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Bin Xu
  • Patent number: 10682568
    Abstract: The disclosure herein is directed to a gaming system that comprises a game board, a field position indicator, a line of scrimmage stick, projectiles, and a method of play involving these components. The game board can be configured to hinge at a location that is conducive for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Inventor: Dion Hanson
  • Patent number: 9908022
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the disclosure combine an insulated cooler and toss game kit, such as a washer toss game. Two insulated halves form a pair of target portions when separated or can be combined to form a case. Game playing pieces, such as washers, and target cylinders are stored within the case. The two halves are configured to allow contents, such as beverages, food and/or temperature control materials to be stored in the interior volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: Indian Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Graham R. Bowe
  • Patent number: 9573046
    Abstract: A card game and method of play is provided. It includes a plurality of game cards and a multifaceted die having a plurality of characters on the faces of said die. A rule set is also provided. It includes a plurality of rules, one of the rules of being that a player identify an adjective that corresponds with one of the plurality of characters on an upturned face of said multifaceted die.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian M. Yu
  • Patent number: 9043231
    Abstract: An assembly includes a transaction product and an auxiliary vehicle. The transaction product includes a folded sheet configured to be repeatedly folded and unfolded between a collapsed position and an extended position. The folded sheet defines a substantially planar surface defining a printed track. The transaction product comprises an account identifier statically connected thereto. The account identifier links the transaction product to at least one of an account and a record and is machine readable by a point-of-sale terminal. The auxiliary vehicle includes a microcontroller, one or more sensors, a motor, and at least one movable component. The microcontroller actuates the motor to induce movement of the at least one movable component propelling the auxiliary vehicle along and following the printed track based on detection of a location of the printed track as determined by the one or more sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Jesse Gadola, Brian Robert Bennett, Kelly M. Gray, Brian R. Holt, Megan B. Engeseth, Timothy P. Clegg
  • Patent number: 8833769
    Abstract: A portable gaming top which can serve as a vehicle sunshade, with multiple accessory attachments, which may be folded onto itself to facilitate portability, enabling the playing of multiple card and board games anywhere there is a flat surface. The game table top is designed to be used as a smooth table covering or play surface for various games, including card games where a smooth surface is ideal being able to deal cards; board games where convenience of storage and ability to move game pieces on a smooth surface is ideal. The game table top is designed to be twisted and folded upon itself into a smaller form factor to enable convenient storage and transport. The game table top also includes fasteners such as hook-and-loop fasteners or straps to be used to attach additional features. The game table includes a carrying case with pockets to hold additional accessories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Inventor: Brent Hilvitz
  • Publication number: 20140175744
    Abstract: A game board assembly is disclosed herein. The game board assembly includes a foldable game board and a plurality of mounts. The foldable game board has a main portion and a plurality of peripheral edge portions that surround the main portion. The game board has a planar configuration where the main portion and the plurality of peripheral edge portions are positioned to be substantially co-planar with one another. The peripheral edge portions are selectively foldable to be non-planar with respect to the main portion. The mounts are each configured to engage the game board in the planar configuration. The mounts are configured to releaseably mount to a surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Inventors: Brian Yu, Damon Saddler, Paul James
  • Patent number: 8550463
    Abstract: A transaction product includes a first cover panel, a second cover panel, and an intermediate sheet, and an account identifier. The intermediate sheet transitions between a collapsed and an extended position and defines fold lines dividing the intermediate sheet into sections. When the intermediate sheet is in the collapsed position, the sections form a stack. The first cover panel is coupled with one of the sections that forms a top of the stack, and the second cover panel is coupled with another of the sections that forms a bottom of the stack. The account identifier is coupled with at least one of the first and second cover panels and the intermediate sheet and links the transaction product to an account or record configured to track a value available for use toward a purchase of one or more of goods and services. Other products, combinations, and associated methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Alicia Pompei, Jonathan Erickson
  • Publication number: 20130119606
    Abstract: A sudoku-style game for use by a human player includes a game board surface presented to the player which has a plurality of P×Q sub-matrices of cells, each of the cells being divided into a first section and a second section, each section of each cell having sufficient space to contain a visually perceivable indicator, wherein P represents the number of rows in each sub-matrix, and Q represents the number of columns in each sub-matrix, a master matrix having the plurality of P×Q sub-matrices coupled one P×Q sub-matrix to another P×Q sub-matrix to form a desired game board shape, a solution to the game being the completion of the master matrix by the player so that no indicator is repeated more than a respective instructed number of times in each row and column.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Inventor: Glenn Frederick Mackay
  • Patent number: 8419018
    Abstract: A golf putter configured to assist a player in marking the location of a golf ball on the golf course green and further provide retrieval capabilities of the golf ball subsequent completion of play. The golf putter further includes a shaft having a head secured to one end. The head includes a bottom surface having a recess that is generally annular in shape. Disposed within the recess is an annular shaped ball marking disc. The head further includes a magnet that is slidably mounted within an internal cavity that functions to releasably secure the ball marking disc to the bottom surface of the head of the putter. The golf putter further includes a ball retrieval apparatus that is disposed within the shaft opposite the head. The ball retrieval apparatus includes a plurality of arms manufactured of a resilient metal that are operable to be extended outward from the shaft in order to assist in the retrieval of a golf ball without the user having to bend over to retrieve the golf ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: Raul Cisneros
  • Patent number: 8353516
    Abstract: A toy play set for containing at least one predetermined board game includes a generally elongated body having a hollow interior, first and second opposing longitudinal ends, and a generally curved side wall extending around the hollow interior between the first and second ends. The first and second ends and side wall generally surround the hollow interior in a closed configuration of the body. The body has an open configuration in which the hollow interior is at least partially accessible. A playing surface is operably engaged with the body and is configured to play the predetermined board game. The playing surface is shaped and sized to enable the playing surface to be completely stored within the hollow interior of the body with the body in the closed configuration. The playing surface is accessible at least with the body in the open configuration for playing of the predetermined board game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Collins, Stephen Lau
  • Publication number: 20120274024
    Abstract: A transaction product includes a first cover panel, a second cover panel, and an intermediate sheet, and an account identifier. The intermediate sheet transitions between a collapsed and an extended position and defines fold lines dividing the intermediate sheet into sections. When the intermediate sheet is in the collapsed position, the sections form a stack. The first cover panel is coupled with one of the sections that forms a top of the stack, and the second cover panel is coupled with another of the sections that forms a bottom of the stack. The account identifier is coupled with at least one of the first and second cover panels and the intermediate sheet and links the transaction product to an account or record configured to track a value available for use toward a purchase of one or more of goods and services. Other products, combinations, and associated methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: TARGET BRANDS, INC.
    Inventors: Alicia POMPEI, Jonathan ERICKSON
  • Patent number: 8292298
    Abstract: A folding game board is provided for use with game pieces. The system includes a flat game board which comprises four panels. Each panel comprises a playing surface and a compartment opposite the playing surface. Certain panels are hinged together to permit each of two pairs of compartments to fold and close independently to form two storage areas within which playing pieces may be stored. Other panels are hinged together to permit the two storage areas to be folded together, thereby stacking the four panels of the game board. The depth of the storage areas is based on the size necessary to accommodate playing pieces and accessories to be stored within the game board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventor: Gary Strum
  • Publication number: 20120200035
    Abstract: My child educational board game, “Word Battle Generation 2”, embodies a simplified game configuration that requires players to approach word learning, sequencing, and construction from a naval/military strategist point of view in that instead of targeting objectives in a mere hit-or-miss situation, where the goal in and of itself is to reach and eliminate occupied coordinates, he/she must locate and actually identify the quality of opponents' pieces (these being letters) before the other competitors capture or eliminate out of play all his/her own word patterns.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Inventor: Milner Benedict, III
  • Patent number: 8226451
    Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided with enhancements and other features that impart additional utility or amusement value to the basic underlying structure. The collapsible structure has at least one foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, and with a fabric material covering portions of the frame member to form a panel when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation. An electrical component can attached to the fabric material, and an electrical coupling connected to the electrical component. Alternatively, a two-dimensional or three-dimensional object can be attached to the fabric material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 8220799
    Abstract: A transaction product includes a first cover panel, a second cover panel, and an intermediate sheet, and an account identifier. The intermediate sheet transitions between a collapsed and an extended position and defines fold lines dividing the intermediate sheet into sections. When the intermediate sheet is in the collapsed position, the sections form a stack. The first cover panel is coupled with one of the sections that forms a top of the stack, and the second cover panel is coupled with another of the sections that forms a bottom of the stack. The account identifier is coupled with at least one of the first and second cover panels and the intermediate sheet and links the transaction product to an account or record configured to track a value available for use toward a purchase of one or more of goods and services. Other products, combinations, and associated methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Alicia Pompei, Jonathan Erickson
  • Publication number: 20110291359
    Abstract: Removal of game pieces or tiles from the recesses of a game board surface having a raised grid to prevent sliding of the game pieces on the board is facilitated by providing, in one embodiment, a flexible game board which can be bent into a generally U-shaped structure to form a funnel to deposit the game pieces into a receptacle by funneling action. An alternative embodiment provides for pivotably mounted full boards or portions of boards which are rotated on their pivots to deposit the game pieces in a receptacle forming the frame for the structure. Another embodiment provides a grid with a slot under it for receiving a smooth-surfaced marked game board surface under the grid. The game board can be pulled out from under the grid to let game pieces fall down into a receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Vivian B. Goldblatt
  • Publication number: 20110198808
    Abstract: A collapsible game is disclosed. In one embodiment, the game includes a divider and multiple outlets to obtain random distribution of objects in the game. The game also includes a movably coupled lid that can be moved relative to the opening of the game. The lid includes a finger recess that facilitates movement of the lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicant: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremy R. Fischer, Tyler Kenney, Sammy Wai Nang Lam
  • Publication number: 20110101611
    Abstract: A transaction product includes a first cover panel, a second cover panel, and an intermediate sheet, and an account identifier. The intermediate sheet transitions between a collapsed and an extended position and defines fold lines dividing the intermediate sheet into sections. When the intermediate sheet is in the collapsed position, the sections form a stack. The first cover panel is coupled with one of the sections that forms a top of the stack, and the second cover panel is coupled with another of the sections that forms a bottom of the stack. The account identifier is coupled with at least one of the first and second cover panels and the intermediate sheet and links the transaction product to an account or record configured to track a value available for use toward a purchase of one or more of goods and services. Other products, combinations, and associated methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: TARGET BRANDS, INC.
    Inventors: Alicia Pompei, Jonathan Erickson
  • Patent number: 7862043
    Abstract: A game assembly for housing a foldable game board which is quickly and conveniently secured to an open configuration for game play through the use of a spring loaded flexible hinge. The game assembly includes a first base portion, a second base portion capable of cooperating with the first base portion between an open and a closed configuration, and at least one hinge assembly mounted at a first end to the first base portion and at a second end to the second base portion. The hinge assembly includes a flexible strap and biasing element capable of tensioning the flexible strap to maintain the first and second base portions with respect to each other in an open configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Hasbro, Inc.
    Inventor: Joel Kramer
  • Patent number: 7813116
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a heart shaped structure with altering appearance comprising: a right base with an accommodating cavity; a left base flippable and pivot-jointed to the accommodating cavity of right base; a right upper cover pivot-jointed to the side of right base, with a fingerprint recognition device and a locking mechanism; and a left upper cover flippable and pivot-jointed to the side of left base. The interior of the right base selectively includes a processing unit, a decoder, a digital to analog converter (DAC), a rechargeable battery, a storage unit, and a display monitor located within the cavity. In addition, an internal speaker, an audio output port, a data transmission port, a recharge port, a power switch and a control panel is selectively located on the outer casing of the right base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Weistech Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wei Hsu
  • Publication number: 20100102510
    Abstract: A method, system, and apparatus of a foldable game board with an interior storage compartment are disclosed. A game system comprising a game-board element is disclosed. The game-board element comprises a first foldable surface with a first game-board pattern, a second foldable surface with a second game-board pattern, wherein the second foldable surface is affixed to the foldable first surface, and a storage cavity bounded by the first foldable surface and the foldable second surface. In addition, certain portions of the storage cavity may be used to store game pieces or game playing instructions. A wrap-around element may secure the game-board element in a folded position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventor: Amanda Leigh Stapleford
  • Patent number: 7654531
    Abstract: A toy play set for containing at least one predetermined board game includes a generally elongated body having a hollow interior, first and second opposing longitudinal ends, and a generally curved side wall extending around the hollow interior between the first and second ends. The first and second ends and side wall generally surround the hollow interior in a closed configuration of the body. The body has an open configuration in which the hollow interior is at least partially accessible. A playing surface is operably engaged with the body and is configured to play the predetermined board game. The playing surface is shaped and sized to enable the playing surface to be completely stored within the hollow interior of the body with the body in the closed configuration. The playing surface is accessible at least with the body in the open configuration for playing of the predetermined board game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Collins, Stephen Lau
  • Patent number: 7637505
    Abstract: A game device that uses an inclined playing surface to achieve the goal of making the game more convenient by allowing the player easier accessibility to game pieces. The game assembly includes a base, an upright module and a pair of support assemblies. The inclined playing surface is achieved through combination of a locking hinge and an interlocking set of bars. The locking hinge is achieved through the connection of a set of plastic fasteners on the pair of support assemblies to a set of notches on the base. The locking hinge allows the support assemblies to be able to pivot upwards towards the upright assembly. The interlocking set of bars is achieved through the even spacing of bars along the bottom edge of the base and the edge of the pair of support assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Hasbro, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce Foster
  • Patent number: 7607664
    Abstract: A marriage and divorce game and game board. The game board is divided into four quadrants and includes a plurality of defined spaces that extend around the periphery of the game board. A church and a courthouse are disposed in a central area of the game board. There is provided an array of consequence cards that include marriage, divorce, pastor and judge cards. The marriage and divorce cards include events that relate to marriage or divorce. The pastor and judge cards also include events such as penalties and benefits. Through the course of the game, points are accumulated by the individual players and individual players whose tokens land on spaces corresponding to the marriage, divorce, pastor and judge cards are required to draw an appropriate card from a deck and deal with the consequences of the card or gain the benefit conferred by the card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventor: James F. Ward
  • Patent number: 7568702
    Abstract: Chess set comprising a housing that closes and creates a space to store game pieces. Shelves are rotatably attached to the side of the board to move from a close position inside the housing to an open position adjacent to the playing board. Game pieces are adhered to the shelves and to the board via a mechanical connection that is releasable such as a magnet, button, adhesive, or other suitable mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventors: William Holden, Charlie Holden
  • Publication number: 20090174144
    Abstract: A gameboard including a top surface configured to accommodate the playing of a game thereon and a bottom surface configured to be disposed on a gameboard support surface and to include means for smooth movement thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventors: Philip E. Orbanes, Philip C. Orbanes
  • Patent number: 7387299
    Abstract: A folding game table having a collapsible construction is disclosed. The folding game table has a plurality of table top portions connected with at least one hinge and movable between an extended position and a folded position. At least one retention coupler is configured to be removably secured to the plurality of table top portions and configured to removably attach at least one table inlay to the plurality of table top portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Inventor: Justin L. Voden
  • Patent number: 7341252
    Abstract: A game board comprising: an upper surface member, preferably composed of a transparent material; a peripheral edge connected to the upper surface member; and at least one aperture in the peripheral edge for receiving a game piece, the game piece preferably an elongate tile provided with indicia relevant to game play. A method of playing a game using the game board is also taught, the method comprising the steps of: a. placing player tokens at a selected location on surface indicia on the upper surface member; b. allowing the players to alternate rolling a die to determine an amount of movement for each of the player tokens across the upper surface member, c. moving each of the player tokens by thusly determined amounts of movement; d. when moving one of the player tokens to a space above an aperture, observing indica within the aperture through the transparent upper surface member, the aperture indicia providing game instruction; e. responding to the game instruction provided by the aperture indicia; and f.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Inventors: Shawn Jacklin, Brent Froh
  • Publication number: 20080012220
    Abstract: A configurable board game where playing pieces are played on a game board's playing surface and a circumstantial change is played on peripheral ledges. A position of one or more playing pieces on the peripheral ledges determines game play within the game board. Game boards can be attached together in a variety of ways to form updated playing surfaces of different shapes and sizes, thereby allowing for a variance in the play of the game. The playing pieces on the playing surface can move across multiple game boards. Thus, the rules of the game board in which the game piece moves dictates how the game piece thereon is played. Alternatively, each game piece retains its original functionality regardless of which game board it is currently positioned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Publication date: January 17, 2008
    Inventor: John Edward O'Neill
  • Patent number: 7237776
    Abstract: Apparatus 10 discloses a mathematically-based game comprising a game board 12 having four parallel rows of eight depressions 14 for retaining game pieces 24 such as marbles. Game pieces 24 are arranged by each player 26 in the depressions 14 which are disposed within their area of play. The players 26 then sequentially manipulate the game pieces 24 around the game board 12 according to mathematical calculations with the objective of eliminating all of the opponent's game pieces. The apparatus 10 requires the user 26 to apply addition, subtraction, thinking and reasoning thereby promoting the concentration, creativity and problem-solving abilities of the players.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Yeme Ngoto
  • Patent number: 7229073
    Abstract: A game board for playing a game thereon using a magnet sensitive game piece. The game board includes a substantially flexible and substantially non-magnetic first sheet of material defining a first sheet first surface and a substantially opposed first sheet second surface. The substantially flexible and substantially permanently magnetized second sheet of material defines a second sheet first surface and a substantially opposed second sheet second surface. The first sheet second surface is secured to the second sheet first surface so as to substantially prevent a relative displacement therebetween. The game board is selectively rollable and unrollable respectively between the substantially cylindrical rolled configuration that is substantially flat unrolled configuration. When the game board is in the unrolled configuration, the first sheet first surface is usable as a playing surface for receiving the game piece thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Inventor: Yvan David
  • Patent number: 7156396
    Abstract: A folding game table having a collapsible construction is disclosed. The folding game table has a plurality of table top portions interconnected with at least one hinge and movable between an extended position and a folded position. At least one rail is configured to be removably mounted to the plurality of table top portions and configured to removably secure at least one game template to the plurality of table top portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Inventor: Justin L. Voden
  • Patent number: 6991232
    Abstract: This invention provides the portable (pocket size) board multi-game set for playing chess, checker or backgammon games. An improved portable board multi-game set includes the set of chess and checker/backgammon pieces each including the piece opening, inclosure and director, a game board comprising two foldable half-boards coupled to each other by the hinges, chess/checker field layer, a backgammon field layer, and the apertures located on the side of the board intended for chess/checker games and providing the prevention of the piece's misplacement off the center of the squares on the chess/checker game field by passage of the piece's director into aperture. The portable board game set also comprises a compartment for storage of the pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Inventor: Ann Rachel Yufa
  • Publication number: 20040222586
    Abstract: The inventions herein relate to novel games of chance and apparatus and methods for their play. In one embodiment, a multi-level game of chance is played by presenting the player with multiple options, where there is at least one positive option and at least one negative option. By way of example, at each level the player selects one of four boxes, where two have a monetary amount, and one has a strike. Optionally, the fourth box may comprise a ‘mystery box’, which requires a decision within a decision. When presented with the mystery box, the player may elect to open it or not. If they do not open it, game play resumes at the existing game level. If they open it, one of multiple options is presented, including a positive option and a negative option. In the preferred embodiment, the positive option could include: a multiplier of the winnings of the player, e.g., a double of the money in the player's account, or the updating of the safe level for the player.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Inventors: Randall Mark Katz, Gary Dawson
  • Patent number: 6749198
    Abstract: The inventions herein relate to novel games of chance and apparatus and methods for their play. In one embodiment, a multi-level game of chance is played by presenting the player with multiple options, where there is at least one positive option and at least one negative option. By way of example, at each level the player selects one of four boxes, where two have a monetary amount, and one has a strike. Optionally, the fourth box may comprise a ‘mystery box’, which requires a decision within a decision. When presented with the mystery box, the player may elect to open it or not. If they do not open it, game play resumes at the existing game level. If they open it, one of multiple options is presented, including a positive option and a negative option. In the preferred embodiment, the positive option could include: a multiplier of the winnings of the player, e.g., a double of the money in the player's account, or the updating of the safe level for the player.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Milestone Entertainment LLC
    Inventors: Randall Mark Katz, Gary Dawson
  • Patent number: 6736398
    Abstract: A modular board game apparatus has a segmental playing surface comprising pairs of segments which are variously configured to provides a surface whose shape and playing area may be changed according to the requirements of a particular game. The segments facilitate versions of games normally only played between two players (such as chess and draughts) to be played by two, three or four people (Configurations II, III and IV). The board shapes described are each proportional in area to the number of players, are symmetrical, and may be variously patterned (6,7). A preferred embodiment comprising eight quadrilateral segments (3) that may be arranged in differing orientations, assembled and secured about a central point by means of a restraining ring (2) is illustrated. Segment sets comprising variously shaped segments of differing thickness can be assembled to simulate undulating terrain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Inventor: Jaan Peter Charles Stanton
  • Publication number: 20040080109
    Abstract: A game board including a substantially rigid pair of panels each adapted for play, each of the panels defined by an outer surface, a top edge and a bottom edge, the top edges hinged together for pivoting, wherein the bottom edges are adapted to form a self-supporting means to allow the pair of panels to stand upright during play, a plurality of pegs adapted to be placed on the outer surface of the pair of panels, and a plurality of game pieces having a front surface with printed indicia, wherein the game pieces form apertures therethrough for receiving the pegs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventor: Julie Dudar
  • Publication number: 20040051248
    Abstract: A game board for providing both long and short play is disclosed. To convert the game board from long play to short play, the endmost sections of the game board are lifted up and placed next to each other on top of the intermediate sections of the game board. A path circumnavigates the game board and appears to be continuous in both long and short play modes. The begin and end regions reside at least partially on an endmost section and appear as unbroken shapes when configured for both long and short play.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Applicant: Screenlife, LLC.
    Inventors: Mathew J. Griesse, Michael J. Ausich
  • Patent number: 6695309
    Abstract: A modular hidden maze game for multiple players is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the game includes a playing board having a playing surface on which can be defined a plurality of playing spaces. Each of the playing spaces can include at least one recessed portion. A plurality of partition pieces can be removably attached to the playing surface at a substantially normal angle, thereby forming a plurality of mutable paths across the playing surface. A plurality of covering pieces are provided. Each of the covering pieces can be dimensioned to removably engage the recessed portion of one of the plurality of playing spaces while at least partially covering any partition pieces that abut the playing space occupied by the covering piece. The playing board can be formed of discrete modules which allow players to separate sections of the board to facilitate set up and concealment of a maze before rejoining the sections to reform the board having at least two concealed mazes thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Martin Pepper
  • Publication number: 20040026857
    Abstract: A board game facilitates the transfer of knowledge concerning a family playing the game. The board game includes a game board upon which a plurality of game pieces are moved as the game is played. The game board includes a plurality of game spaces upon which the game pieces are moved so as to determine the action a player is required to take wherein a portion of the game spaces designate a plurality of different categories concerning various aspects of family knowledge. The game further includes a plurality a category question cards, each category question card corresponding to a specific category designated upon the various game spaces included in the game board, and a plurality of family photographs players are asked to identify during the playing of the game. In use, players move game pieces about the game board landing upon various game spaces and answering questions or acting in the manner required by the game space upon which the player lands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Susan G. O'Connell
  • Publication number: 20040007814
    Abstract: Game equipment, such as a board game, hingedly constructed so that when shipped for sale or display, it can be folded into a three-dimensional box, with separate lid. The box can contain game pieces, instructions, and other game-playing materials and equipment. The box can be shrink-wrapped or similarly packaged to effect attractive display, and save on shipping and storage cost, as well as paper usage. When unfolded for playing of the game, the game board can be refolded into a box-shape for storage, or preferable, folded compactly, and relatively, in a see through bag with closure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: Joseph C. Senart
  • Patent number: 6634646
    Abstract: A portable game table having a protective outer surface when in the closed position. The portable game table includes a game table having an outer surface and a case configured to attach to the game table. A portion of the outer surface of the game table includes a portion of the protective outer surface. The game table may be configured to have a game played thereon, such as football, billiards and air hockey.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventors: Richard Wolpert, Raymond Wolpert
  • Patent number: 6585265
    Abstract: A board game in which a game can be developed in an unexpected way can be provided. Plural dice selected from among plural dice which can be unfolded two-dimensionally are rolled. According to the results of the rolling of the dice, a die is unfolded and placed on the play field. On the unfolded dice a player places his/her piece. Also according to the results of the rolling of the dice, a player saves costs necessary for pursuing a game on an Addition/Deduction Unit. On the cards respectively corresponding to pieces, the Group, Level, Ability etc. of the pieces are indicated. A player makes his/her piece advance or attack the opponent's piece by paying the saved costs, and at the same time makes his/her piece defend itself by paying the saved costs as well. A player who succeeds in giving pre determined damage to a specific piece of the opponent wins a game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Konami Corporation
    Inventors: Shoji Dewa, Akihiro Takatoku
  • Patent number: 6581933
    Abstract: The invention is a three-dimensional, pyramid-shaped, word forming game having a plurality of levels independently rotatable around a vertical support column secured to a base. The game is played with cards of four different colors, which correspond to the same colors of the pyramids' sides. Players take turns inserting playing cards into card holding slots located on the outer edges of the levels in an attempt to spell words. The levels freely rotate in either direction. Each letter-bearing card has a point value associated with it and players earn points for words spelled on the pyramid shaped game. The game is won by the player with the most points for words spelled out on the game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: George Zivan
  • Publication number: 20030094757
    Abstract: The present invention provides method and apparatus for acting out a themed story using a set of play set style games, wherein each play set/game allows the user to act out a portion of the story. Accordingly, the game set may incorporate elements from a particular theme or popular cultural phenomenon, such as a book or movie. For example, each play set/game may be based on a chapter of a children's book or novel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventor: Jonathan Bedford
  • Publication number: 20030090062
    Abstract: A game wherein players move their game pieces around a pathway through multiple chambers is described. Moreover, the game may be portable. In some cases, the game apparatus may be carried in a plastic case that resembles a hard-backed book. The game components may be based on an individual chapter from a published children's book or novel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventor: Jonathan Bedford
  • Publication number: 20030090060
    Abstract: A game wherein players move their game pieces across two pathways and try to move their player mover onto a movable target mover while avoiding the aim of a rotating pointer. Moreover, the game may be portable. In some cases, the game apparatus may be carried in a plastic case that resembles a hard-backed book. The game components may be based on an individual chapter from a published children's book or novel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventor: Jonathan Bedford