Abstract:
The present invention comprises an entertaining targeting game for all ages that enhances hand-eye coordination and provides target practice and a method of playing such a game. The device consists of an electronic target striking device for removable attachment to a ground-engaging mat. The target striking device has visual and audible strike indicating means and the mat has score display means. Additional embodiments are anticipated.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present invention was first described in U.S. Provisional Patent No. 60/748,308, filed on Dec. 8, 2005. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to a novel targeting game for all ages that enhances hand-eye coordination and provides target practice and, more particularly, to a game system, comprising an electronic target-striking device with visual and audible strike-indicating means and a score display means. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Action games such as basketball, hockey, and the like are popular in arenas and backyards across the country. Such games are fun to watch and even more fun to play. As such, people are constantly modifying such games, changing the rules, and generally looking for the “next great thing” when it comes to such action games. As a result, manufacturers are constantly looking for modifications that allow action games to be quickly set up, allow them to be played anywhere (inside or out), can be played with a minimum of specialty equipment or gear, and are generally easy to understand with a minimum amount of rules. 
     The game system is an action game for two to four players. The invention consists of two goals that are placed at each end of a scoring field. Each goal is equipped with a sensor that detects when it has been struck by a ball and automatically keeps track of the score in addition to sounding an audible “hit.” Each team takes turns trying to strike the opposing team&#39;s goal with a ball that is approximately the size of a basketball. Such play continues until one of the teams scores 10 points and is thus declared the winner. This novel and unique game is unique and easy to learn, while being fun to play for participants ranging from approximately age 8 through adult. 
     Several attempts have been made in the past to develop a gaming apparatus providing a target and an electronic and automatic scoring indication means that is portable and fun to play. U.S. Pat. No. 6,598,882, in the name of Stubberfield, discloses a web-shaped electronic device with a grounding stake, color-coded web-like attachments, and a proximity sensor. The game is played wherein a first set of players attempts to hit a second set of players with a web-like ball. Players are ousted when hit with the ball or crossing a perimeter defined by the proximity sensor. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,382,028, in the name of Sciandra et al., teaches an apparatus and method of play for a disc-tossing game, comprising two tapered containers with a slot in their sides and a dull-edged disc. 
     U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,237,918 and 5,938,202, both issued in the name of Williams, describe a ring-and-ball-tossing game apparatus and method for playing the same, comprising a ring-shaped element, at least two stakes, and a ball. The game is played by opposing players standing behind their respective stakes, tossing the ring-shaped element towards the opposing stake, and then tossing the ball wither towards the stake or towards the ring-shaped element, thereby accruing points based on position of the tossed ball. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,476,269, in the name of Ottley, discloses a target game for outdoor use wherein a ball is tossed or rolled towards a target, comprising a plurality of cups, which are buried within the ground. A backer board and rails are also provided to guide the ball in its tossed or rolled path. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,873,573, in the name of Beatty, Jr., teaches a ring-toss-type game, having a tubular target on a base with an upstanding central post secured with a cord to the ground and comprising a hard, heavy material that creates a sound when struck by a similarly constructed ring. 
     None of the prior art particularly describes a portable target-tossing game apparatus, comprising an electronic and automatic scoring mechanism. Accordingly, there is a constant need for fun action games with the above qualifications. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the prior art, it has been observed that there is need for a portable target apparatus that includes electronic and automatic scoring indications, a method of play, and a ball for tossing at said apparatus. 
     It is an object of the present invention to provide a mat, further comprising a plurality of senior target attachment notches; a plurality of junior target attachment notches; a multi-section light indicator embedded within said mat; and, a scoring display also embedded within said mat. 
     Another object of the present invention provides for said mat to further comprise a circular shape with a center aperture and an outer ring circumscribed about the mat and molded in a different decorative color and defining a distinct outer concentric circle. 
     Still yet another object of the present invention provides for said senior target attachment notches to be arranged in a first broken concentric circle of a first diameter around said central aperture and said junior target attachment notches to be arranged in a second broken concentric circle of a second diameter around said central aperture, wherein said second diameter is larger than said first diameter. 
     Yet another object of the present invention provides for a multi-section light indicator, oriented in a third broken concentric circle of a third diameter larger than said second diameter, further comprising a plurality of illuminating lamps, affixed therewithin a plurality of lamp sockets; light indicator integral wiring, molded integrally within said mat; a first light indicator connector in electrical communication with said light indicator integral wiring; and, an outer transparent cover, covering said lamps, wherein said cover is raised slightly above the surface of the mat. 
     Still yet another object of the present invention provides for a scoring display, attached to an upper surface of the mat in an intermediary position between said outer ring and said multi-section light indicator, further comprising a digital LED display device; score display integral wiring molded integrally within said mat; and, a first scoring display connector in electrical communication with said scoring display integral wiring. 
     Another object of the present invention provides for a removably attachable senior center target and junior center target shaped as a convex upper surface and a flat lower surface, each further comprising a target dome located within said upper surface; an electronic module; a speaker; an on/off switch; a plurality of attachment tabs located about an outer circumference of said lower surface for interlocking insertion therein said senior attachment notches of said mat; a battery compartment; internal center target electrical wiring; and, an electronic cable. 
     Yet still another object of the present invention provides for said senior and junior target attachment notches and said senior and junior attachment tabs comprise a twist-and-lock-type fastening mechanism to ensure said senior or junior center target will remain in position even after repeated strikes by said ball. 
     Still yet another object of the present invention provides for a target dome manufactured out of a resilient material, wherein said target dome is able to withstand repeated strikes with said ball, while also minimizing a rebound distance of said ball after striking said target dome and further comprising a sensor, which is activated when said target dome is struck with said ball, said sensor generating and transmitting a strike signal that is electrically communicated to said electronic module. 
     Still yet another object of the present invention provides for an on/off switch and a battery compartment located on the lower surface of center target, wherein said on/off switch transmits power from batteries within said battery compartment to said electronic control module. 
     Still yet another object of the present invention provides for an electronic module located within said center target that receives said strike signal from said sensor and power from said batteries and generates an audible signal that is electrically communicated to said speaker located within said center target and projecting outwardly through said lower surface, and a score signal and a light indicator signal that are electrically communicated to said electronic cable. 
     Another object of the present invention provides for an electronic cable, connected at a proximal end to said electronic module and comprising a distal end with a second light indicator connector for matingly interfacing with said first light indicator connector and a second scoring display connector for matingly interfacing with said first scoring display connector, wherein said electronic cable transmits said score signal and said light indicator signal from said electronic module to said scoring display to display a score and said multi-section light indicator to activate said illuminating lamps, respectively. 
     To achieve the objectives mentioned above, a method of playing the target game may be achieved by performing the following steps: selecting at least one said mat for arrangement thereon a playing surface; selecting either said senior center target or said junior center target, based upon a skill level; installing a battery into said battery compartment of said senior or junior center target; installing said senior or junior center targets electrically by routing said electronic cable down through said central aperture of said mat and mating said second light indicator connector to said first light indicator connector of said multi-section light indicator and mating said second scoring display connector to said first scoring display connector of said scoring display; switching said on/off switch to an “on” position, thereby activating power to said apparatus; installing said senior or junior center target mechanically by interlocking said attachment tabs thereinto said senior target attachment notches or said junior attachment notches, respectively, and rotating said senior or junior center target in a clockwise direction to lock securely; adjusting said mat for easy viewing of said scoring display by an opposing team during play; and, commencing play. 
     A scoring method based on game play is achieved by performing the following steps: providing a first team and a second team, each comprised of at least one player; arranging two mats at a pre-determined distance apart from each other, based on a skill and preference of said first and second teams; selecting an endgame score based on said skill and preference; tossing said ball towards said selected senior or junior center target; striking said senior or junior center target, wherein said sensor generates a strike signal sent to said electronic module; generating and transmitting said audible signal from said electronic module through said speaker; generating and transmitting said light indicator signal and said scoring signal from said electronic module through said electronic cable and to said multi-section light indicator and said scoring display, respectively; and, declaring a winner based on either said first team or said second team first achieving said selected endgame score. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The advantages and features of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following more detailed description and claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing in which like elements are identified with like symbols and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a targeting game  10 , illustrating the senior center target  21 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention; and, 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a targeting game  10 , illustrating the junior center target  20 , according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention; and, 
         FIG. 3  is a close-up perspective view of the center target  20 ,  21 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention; and, 
         FIG. 4  is a bottom perspective view of a targeting game  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention; and, 
         FIG. 5  is an electrical schematic block diagram of a targeting game  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTIVE KEY 
     
         
         
           
               10  target game 
               11  mat 
               12  outer ring 
               13  light indicator 
               14  junior target attachment notch 
               15  senior target attachment notch 
               16  score display 
               17  ball 
               18  score display connector 
               19  light indicator connector 
               20  junior center target 
               21  senior center target 
               22  attachment tab 
               23  on/off switch 
               24  speaker 
               25  electronic cable 
               26  target dome 
               27  battery compartment 
               28  electronic module 
               30  game player 
           
         
       
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     The best mode for carrying out the invention is presented in terms of its preferred embodiment, herein depicted within  FIGS. 1 through 5 . However, the invention is not limited to the described embodiment, and a person skilled in the art will appreciate that many other embodiments of the invention are possible without deviating from the basic concept of the invention, and that any such work around will also fall under scope of this invention. It is envisioned that other styles and configurations of the present invention can be easily incorporated into the teachings of the present invention, and only one particular configuration shall be shown and described for purposes of clarity and disclosure and not by way of limitation of scope. 
     The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. 
     The present invention describes a method and a targeting game  10  (herein described as the “apparatus”)  10 , comprising a target game system with electronic scoring as well as audible and visual indicators. The apparatus  10  comprises a mat  11 , two (2) interchangeable center targets  20 ,  21 , a contrasting outer ring  12 , a multi-sectioned light indicator  13 , a digital score display  16 , an electronic module  28 , and a ball  17 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1 , a perspective view of the apparatus  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The apparatus  10  comprises a mat  11 , further comprising a plurality of senior target attachment notches  15 ; a light indicator  13 ; a scoring display  16 ; a removably attachable senior center target  21 , further comprising a plurality of attachment tabs  22  and an electronic cable  25 ; and, a ball  17 . The senior center target  21  is envisioned to be removably attachable to the mat  11  via an interlocking system, comprised of attachment tabs  22  and senior target attachment notches  15 . The senior target attachment notches  15  are oriented as a broken concentric ring made of four (4) distinct and equidistantly-spaced attachment notches  15 , which are sized to retain the corresponding attachment tabs  22  of the senior center target  21 . The senior target attachment notches  15  are envisioned to be, but are not limited to, a twist-and-lock type or similar mechanism, which ensures that the senior center target  21  will remain in position even after repeated strikes by the ball  17 . The senior center target  21  comprises an electronic cable  25 , which provides connections and conductors to the light indicator  13  and the score display  16 . The electronic cable  25  comprises a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the electronic cable  25  is permanently attached to the senior center target  21 . The distal end of the electronic cable  25  comprises multiple female connectors  18 ,  19  for interface and connection with the said visual indicators. An outer ring  12  is envisioned to be circumscribed about the mat  11  and molded in a different decorative color, defining a distinct, outer concentric circle. The outer ring  12  is further envisioned to be made of, but is not limited to, the same materials as the mat  11 . The outer ring  12  comprises the same profile as the mat  11 . Contained within the mat  11  is a multi-section light indicator  13 , comprising illuminating lamps, required electrical components, integral wiring, and an outer transparent cover made of resilient material. The said cover is envisioned to be raised slightly above the surface of the mat  11 . The light indicator  13  is envisioned to be a broken circle made of, but not limited to, four (4) distinct and equidistantly-spaced illuminating arcs. The wiring between illuminated sections of the light indicator  13  is envisioned to be molded integrally within the mat  11 . The score display  16  is envisioned to be attached to the front, upper surface of the mat  11  in an intermediary position between the outer ring  12  and the light indicator  13  device. The score display  16  is further envisioned to be, but is not limited to, a digital LED device or similar technology. The provided ball  17  is envisioned to be the approximate size of a standard basketball. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a perspective view of the apparatus  10 , according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The purpose of this figure is to illustrate the attachment of the alternate junior center target  20 . The alternate junior center target  20  comprises a large diameter target, corresponding attachment tabs  22 , and corresponding target attachment notches  14 ,  15 . The junior center target  20  provides a larger target with respect to the senior center target  21  and, therefore, a less challenging skill level to the player(s)  30 . 
     Referring next to  FIG. 3 , a close-up view of the center target  20 ,  21 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The center target  20 ,  21 , comprises a target dome  26 , a plurality of attachment tabs  22 , an electronic module  28  (see  FIG. 5 ), an electronic cable  25 , a speaker  24 , an on/off switch  23 , and a battery compartment  27 . The target dome  26  is comprised of an approximate hemispherically-shaped construction. The target dome  26  is also envisioned to be of a resilient and sturdy construction, made of materials such as, but not limited to, rubber, foam rubber, other polymers, and the like, which are able to withstand repeated strikes with a ball  17  while also minimizing the rebound distance of the ball  17 , after striking the target dome  26 . The target dome  26  comprises a sensor, which is activated when the target dome  26  is struck with the ball  17 . The attachment tabs  22  are envisioned to be located along the outer circumference of the bottom cover of the center target  20 ,  21 . The attachment tabs  22  are also envisioned to stand up perpendicularly from the bottom cover and are shaped and spaced equidistantly from each other in a pattern corresponding to that of the target attachment notches  14 ,  15  on the mat  11 . The number of attachment tabs  22  is illustrated as, but not limited to, a quantity of four (4). The electronic module  28  (see  FIG. 5 ) receives the score signal from the target dome sensor  26  and provides signal and power to all visual and the audible indicators when the target dome  26  is struck. The electronic cable  25  provides connections and conductors to the light indicator  13  and the score display  16 . The electronic cable  25  comprises a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the electronic cable  25  is permanently attached to the senior center target  21 . The distal end of the electronic cable  25  comprises multiple female connectors  18 ,  19  for interface and connection with the said visual indicators. The speaker  24  is envisioned to be formed integrally to the bottom surface of the center target  20 ,  21  and provides an audible indication of a score. The on/off switch  23  is also envisioned to be formed in the bottom cover of the center target  20 ,  21  and controls power from the battery  27 , contained therein, to the said audible and visual devices. 
     Referring next to  FIG. 4 , a bottom perspective view of the apparatus  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The apparatus  10  comprises a mat  11 , a center target  20 ,  21 , an electronic cable  25 , two (2) female connectors, a light indicator  13 , and a score display  16 . The mat  11  comprises an opening, thereby providing a path for routing the electronic cable  25  to the visual devices contained within the mat  11 . The center targets  20 ,  21  comprise an electrical cord  25 , which conducts signal and power to both the light indicator  13  and the score display  16 . The electronic cable  25  comprises a proximal and distal end. The proximal end of the electronic cable  25  is permanently connected to the center target  20 ,  21 . The distal end of the electronic cable  25  comprises two (2) removably attachable female multi-pin connectors  18 ,  19 , which connect electrically and mechanically to the bottom of the light indicator device  13  and the bottom of the score display device  16 . The electronic cable  25  is therefore completely hidden from view and protected from damage. 
     Referring next to  FIG. 5 , an electrical schematic block diagram depicting the electrical components as used in the apparatus  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. Scoring is accomplished upon the striking of the target dome  26  with the ball  17 . Activation of the sensor within the target dome  26  provides a signal to the electronic module  28 , thereby energizing audible and visual indicators. The electronic module  28  is contained internally to the center target  20 ,  21  and comprises conductors to a battery, housed within the battery compartment  27 ; an on/off switch  23  circuit; conductors to a speaker  24 ; and, an electronic cable  25 . The on/off switch  23  controls power from the battery to the audible and visual devices. The speaker  24  provides an audible indication of the scoring event. The electronic cable  25  provides conductors for both signal and power to the light indicator  13  and the score display  16 . The light indicator  13  comprises multiple illuminating devices, which are electrically joined together by conductors, molded integrally within the mat  11 . 
     It is envisioned that other styles and configurations of the present invention can be easily incorporated into the teachings of the present invention, and only one particular configuration will be shown and described for purposes of clarity and disclosure and not by way of limitation of scope. The preferred embodiment of the present invention can be utilized by the common user, who has little or no training, in a simple and effortless manner. After initial purchase or acquisition of the apparatus  10 , it would be installed as indicated in  FIG. 1 . 
     The method of installing the apparatus  10  may be achieved by performing the following steps: selecting (1) or more game mats  11  and arranging them on a flat surface; selecting either junior center targets  20  or senior center targets  21 , based upon the desired skill level of the users; installing a battery into the battery compartment of the center target  20 ,  21 ; installing the center targets  20 ,  21 , electrically by routing the electronic cable  25 , affixed to the center target  20 ,  21 , down through the opening in the mat  11  and attaching the electrical connector  19  to the light indicator  13  and the electrical connector  18  to the score display  16 , located on the bottom side of the mat  11 ; switching the on/off switch  23  to the “on” position, thereby activating power to the apparatus  10 ; installing the center target  20 ,  21  mechanically by inserting the attachment tabs  22  into the target attachment notches  14 ,  15  and rotating in a clockwise direction to lock securely; and, adjusting the orientation of the mat  11  for easy viewing of the score display  16  by the opposing team during play. 
     The method of playing the game and utilizing the apparatus may be achieved by performing the following steps: arranging two (2) mats  11  and two (2) teams, at a pre-determined distance apart from each other, based on the skill and preference of the player(s)  30 ; selecting one (1) or more players  30  per team; scoring takes place as players  30  aim and strike the center target  20 ,  21 , located in front of the opposing player(s)  30  with the ball  17 ; and, observing the accumulative team score appearing on the score display  16  as the game proceeds. 
     An alternate embodiment of the present invention  10  comprises a variety of center targets  20 ,  21 , in differing sizes, thereby meeting the need for various skill levels of play. 
     Another alternate embodiment of the present invention  10  comprises a hoop attachment, which is mounted to the center target  20 ,  21 , requiring an even higher skill level to score. 
     Yet another alternate embodiment of the present invention  10  comprises a children&#39;s version of the game, providing features such as, but not limited to, a larger mat  11  and a smaller ball  17 . 
     Yet another alternate embodiment of the present invention  10  provides for an electrical power cord to provide power to the apparatus  10  from a conventional electrical outlet socket. 
     The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention and method of use to the precise forms disclosed. Obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, and to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions or substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but is intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention.