Slick Stick

Information

  • Patent Application
  • 20250050183
  • Publication Number
    20250050183
  • Date Filed
    August 09, 2024
    8 months ago
  • Date Published
    February 13, 2025
    2 months ago
  • Inventors
    • Baldwin; Michael Wayne (El cajon, CA, US)
Abstract
A competitive gameplay device includes a support member and a stick member. Attached to the support member is a hollow cylindrical member that serves as a guiding conduit for a detachable stick member. This cylindrical member may incorporate one or more openings to enhance visibility of the stick member as it traverses through. The support member features mechanisms for height adjustment, allowing customization based on player preferences or environmental conditions. Securing mechanisms are integrated into the support member to ensure stability and safety during gameplay.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to recreational games. More specifically, the present invention relates to a modular competitive game system that incorporates elements of skill, strategy, and adaptability.


SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form, that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter. Nor is this summary intended to be used to limit the claimed subject matter's scope.


The present invention introduces a novel game referred to as “Slick Stick.” This game comprises a series of modular components that can be assembled in various configurations, allowing for a customizable playing experience.


The Slick Stick can be disassembled into sections measuring 5 feet in length. Players can combine these sections to create a game that ranges from a minimum of 15 feet to a maximum of 215 feet, with the possibility of extending beyond this by adding additional pieces.


BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A modular competitive game system that incorporates elements of skill, strategy, and adaptability is in demand.


Games have long served as a form of play and sport, often driven by competition and governed by specific rules. Traditional games typically have fixed dimensions and limited adaptability. There is a need for a game that allows for variable lengths, enhancing gameplay and accommodating different environments and player preferences.


The present invention is intended to solve the problems associated with conventional devices and methods and provide improvements on these devices.





BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS


FIG. 1 is an illustration of one embodiment of the present invention with two support members assembled together.



FIG. 2 is an illustration showing one embodiment of the support member of the present invention.



FIG. 3 is an illustration showing one embodiment of the support member and the stick member of the present invention.





DETAIL DESCRIPTIONS OF THE INVENTION

All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.


As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art that the present disclosure has broad utility and application. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the disclosure and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the embodiments of the present disclosure. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present disclosure.


Accordingly, while embodiments are described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present disclosure, and are made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded in any claim of a patent issuing here from, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection be defined by reading into any claim limitation found herein and/or issuing here from that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.


Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection is to be defined by the issued claim(s) rather than the description set forth herein.


Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to that which an ordinary artisan would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein—as understood by the ordinary artisan based on the contextual use of such term-differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the ordinary artisan should prevail.


Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, “a” and “an” each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one of the items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Finally, when used herein to join a list of items, “and” denotes “all of the items of the list.”


The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar elements. While many embodiments of the disclosure may be described, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. For example, substitutions, additions, or modifications may be made to the elements illustrated in the drawings, and the methods described herein may be modified by substituting, reordering, or adding stages to the disclosed methods. Accordingly, the following detailed description does not limit the disclosure. Instead, the proper scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims found herein and/or issuing here from. The present disclosure contains headers. It should be understood that these headers are used as references and are not to be construed as limiting upon the subjected matter disclosed under the header.


The present invention, Slick Stick, is designed for competitive play where participants aim to throw one of the game's “sticks” along a configured apparatus.


The objective is to achieve maximum projection distance without exceeding the intended boundaries. Players must employ both skill and strategy to manipulate the throw of the stick effectively, ensuring it neither overshoots nor falls short of the target distance.


The Slick Stick game represents an innovative advancement in the realm of recreational games, offering players a unique and flexible gaming experience. The present invention meets the needs of modern players for adaptation, skill enhancement, and competitive engagement.


As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the present invention comprises a support member 20 and a stick member 10, which together form the core components of the “Slick Stick” game system designed for competitive play.


Support Member

In one embodiment, the support member 20 may serve as the foundational structure for the game apparatus. The support member 20 can be constructed from a robust material, such as metal or reinforced plastic to ensure durability and stability during gameplay.


In one embodiment, the support member 20 includes a hollow cylindrical member 30 that is affixed to the superior extremity of the support member 20.


This hollow cylindrical member 30 may function as a guiding conduit through which the stick member 20 is propelled during gameplay, ensuring a controlled and directed trajectory.


In some embodiments, the hollow cylindrical member 30 can be constructed from a durable, lightweight material, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or an equivalent synthetic polymer. This material selection ensures both structural integrity and ease of handling. The cylindrical member 30 is designed to be hollow, thereby facilitating unobstructed passage of the stick member 20 through its interior.


The diameter of the hollow cylindrical member 30 can be engineered to be marginally larger than that of the stick member 10, thereby providing adequate clearance for the stick to traverse freely while maintaining a precise guiding mechanism.


The length of the cylindrical member 30 is variable, contingent upon the specific design parameters of the game or modularity of the support member; however, it is typically of sufficient length to ensure the stick member 10 remains properly aligned during its projection.


The hollow cylindrical member 30 can be securely affixed to the top of the support member 20 via a system of brackets or clamps. These attachment mechanisms are designed to secure the cylindrical member 30 firmly in place, thus precluding any lateral or vertical movement during gameplay. The alignment of the cylindrical member 30 can be engineered to be horizontal, ensuring a linear path for the stick member 10.


The primary function of the hollow cylindrical member 30 is to facilitate the guidance of the stick member 10 as it is thrown by the player. The stick member 10 is directed through the cylindrical member 30, which minimizes the likelihood of errant throws and enhances the precision and consistency of gameplay. This design variation allows players to concentrate on optimizing their throwing technique, thereby improving performance.


In one embodiment, the hollow cylindrical member 30 may incorporate calibration markings or indicators along its length to assist players in aligning their throws. These visual guides serve to enhance aiming accuracy. The interior surface of the cylindrical member 30 is designed to be smooth, thereby reducing friction and ensuring that the stick member 10 traverses it with minimal resistance. In one embodiment, the cylindrical member 30 includes an elongated bar or pipe.


In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, the hollow cylindrical member 30 may feature sections that are intentionally left uncovered, creating apertures 35 along its length. These open sections 35 provide visibility of the stick member 10 as it passes through the cylindrical member 30, thereby enhancing the visual aesthetic of the gameplay and providing immediate feedback on the projectile's trajectory. The open design can be strategically applied to maintain the guiding integrity of the cylindrical member 30 while allowing for observable motion.


In one embodiment, the support member 20 can be designed as a vertical stand that elevates the stick member 10 above the ground. In such embodiments, the support member 20 may include a plurality of legs.


In some embodiments, the support member 10 may feature adjustable heights, allowing users to modify the elevation based on their preferences or specific playing conditions.


These height adjust mechanisms 36 may allow for customization based on player preferences, gameplay conditions, or specific environments. Several embodiments of height adjustment mechanisms can be implemented.


As shown in FIG. 2, one embodiment of the height adjustment mechanism 36 may comprise a telescoping assembly integrated into the support member 20. This assembly may include one or more nested tubes, each with varying diameters.


Players can raise or lower the support member 20 by extending or retracting the inner tubes. In some embodiments, this height adjust mechanism 36 can include positive locking mechanisms, such as push-button locks or spring-loaded pins, that engage at predetermined height intervals to secure the assembly in place. The telescoping design may allow for quick and easy adjustments without the need for additional tools.


In another embodiment, the height of the support member 20 can be adjusted using an adjustable clamp or bracket system. This system may comprise a series of fixed height settings along the length of the support member 20. A movable clamp with a locking lever can slide along the support member 20 and be secured at the desired height.


By tightening the lever, the clamp holds the support member 20 firmly in position. This mechanism allows for precise height adjustments and can accommodate varying player preferences.


In some other embodiments, the support member 20 of the present invention may include a Rack and Pinion Mechanism, Slotted Height Adjustment, or Spring-Loaded Height Adjustment that are known in the art.


In some embodiments, the support member 20 may include securing mechanisms 37 to attach it firmly to the modular sections (another assembly of support member 20 and hollow cylindrical member 30) and the hollow cylindrical member 30. These mechanisms could include brackets 37 or clamps that engage with the ends of the modular sections, ensuring that the assembly remains stable during play.


In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the support member 20 may also incorporate base supports 40 that provide added stability; these base supports 40 may include a rod or be weighted or staked into the ground for enhanced security, particularly in outdoor settings.


Stick Member

The present invention comprises a stick member 10, which players use to engage in the core gameplay.


In preferred embodiment, each stick member 10 is manufactured from a lightweight, aerodynamic material, such as plastic or composite materials, designed for optimal throwing performance.


In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the stick member 10 is designed with a specific length and weight ratio to facilitate easy handling and precise throws.


In some embodiments, the stick member 10 may also feature ergonomic grips or surface textures to enhance user control and minimize slippage during throws.


In one embodiment, the stick member 10 is color-coded or marked with distinguishing features 15 to facilitate individual player identification, enabling competitive play among multiple participants.


The assembly of the Slick Stick game system may involve connecting the support member 20 to modular sections, which are adjustable and extendable. The modular sections, may comprise several 5-foot segments, are linked using connecting joints to create the desired length of the game apparatus.


Once assembled, the support member 20 is attached securely via the securing mechanisms 37, providing a stable structure for the game.


During gameplay, the stick member 10 is utilized by players who aim to throw it along the length of the assembled apparatus. The objective is to land the stick member 10 as close to the designated end targets as possible. The design of both the support member 20 and stick member 10 is intended to enhance the overall gameplay experience, promoting skill development and competitive spirit.


The present invention addresses the need for an adaptive and engaging competitive game system through its innovative design that incorporates a support member 20 and stick member 10. Each component is engineered to work cohesively, ensuring stability, functionality, and player satisfaction. The outlined embodiments demonstrate the versatility and inventive aspects of the Slick Stick game system, attracting players of varied skill levels.


Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims
  • 1. A device comprising: a support member, anda stick member detachably attached to the support member.
  • 2. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the support member is attached to a hollow cylindrical member.
  • 3. The device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the hollow cylindrical member includes one or more openings.
  • 4. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the support member includes a vertical stand.
  • 5. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the support member includes metal material.
  • 6. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the support member includes plastic material.
  • 7. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the support member includes one or more mechanisms to adjust heights.
  • 8. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the support member includes one or more securing mechanisms.
  • 9. A device comprising: a support member having four legs,a hollow cylindrical member attached to the support member, anda stick member detachably attached to the hollow cylindrical member.
  • 10. The device as claimed in claim 9, wherein the hollow cylindrical member includes one or more openings.
  • 11. The device as claimed in claim 10, wherein the support member includes a vertical stand.
  • 12. The device as claimed in claim 9, wherein the support member includes metal material.
  • 13. The device as claimed in claim 9, wherein the support member includes plastic material.
  • 14. The device as claimed in claim 10, wherein the support member includes one or more mechanisms to adjust heights.
  • 15. The device as claimed in claim 9, wherein the support member includes one or more securing mechanisms.
  • 16. A device comprising: a support member having a plurality of legs,a hollow cylindrical member having one or more openings, anda stick member detachably attached to the hollow cylindrical member.
  • 17. The device as claimed in claim 16, wherein the support member includes a vertical stand.
  • 18. The device as claimed in claim 17, wherein the support member includes metal material.
  • 19. The device as claimed in claim 17, wherein the support member includes plastic material.
  • 20. The device as claimed in claim 16, wherein the support member includes one or more mechanisms to adjust heights.
Provisional Applications (1)
Number Date Country
63518517 Aug 2023 US