# Patent

## Title
Tethered ball batting practice apparatus

## Abstract

This patent application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending patent application Ser. No. 07/644,929, filed Jan. 23, 1991, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,133,546, entitled Foldable Basketball Game Apparatus and Method, invented by Lonny R. Matherne and Robert W. Adams. That application is incorporated herein by this reference.

## Background
The present invention relates to an arcade-style game apparatus used for entertainment and the development of basketball shooting or tossing skills, and more particularly to a home arcade-style game.

Because of the popularity of various sports, particularly in the United States, many people enjoy sports either as a participant or as a spectator. Unfortunately, most sports are played outdoors on large playing fields or at large indoor facilities. Thus, most people are unable to practice certain sports skills or enjoy participation in certain sports within the home.

Heretofore, the ability to take aspects of many sports games indoors has been impractical and space prohibitive for most families. It is not practical to construct a court or a playing field within a home because of the size of such courts or playing fields. Most homes do not have the unobstructed floor space needed for a court or playing field.

Due to the popularity of sports games and the skill involved to play such games well, games derivative from sports such as basketball, football, baseball and softball have developed. Games to test a player's basketball shooting or ball tossing skills are among the most popular at amusement parks, carnivals, and fairs. Typically, a player is given a certain number of shots or throws to score a predetermined number of baskets or hit a target in order to win a prize. Usually an attendant is present to administer the game and distribute the prizes. Such games are usually outdoors, large, and not intended to be readily mobile.

In more recent years, there has been a trend to scale down the size of such sports games so that the game could move indoors into arcades. Such arcade games are typically coin-operated and permit the player a designated period of time to score as many baskets or hit as many targets as possible. Prizes or additional playing time may be awarded to the particularly skillful player who scores a predetermined number of baskets or points within the time period allowed. Such arcade games have become very popular, finding their way into bars, pizza parlors and other places of amusement and entertainment.

Although arcade games of this type have been used in homes, generally such arcade sports games are not found within a home. This is because, heretofore, such arcade-style game devices were not intended for and do not address the limitations presented by home usage. Most homes have a very limited floor space and relatively low ceilings. The sports arcade games that are known are deployed in a ready-to-play configuration that consumes valuable floor space. If a person wishes to reduce the amount of floor space used by the apparatus of the game, virtual disassembly is required.

One known arcade basketball shooting game apparatus has uprights which are capable of folding to a horizontal position, this reduces the height of the game to floor level, but does not address the amount of floor space used. Once folded down into a horizontal position, the apparatus can be leaned against a wall to reduce the amount of floor space used. However, such deployment for storage when not in use is impractical and unsafe. It is a major project to break down the component parts of the game so that the uprights can be folded horizontal, and the project is no less major to unfold the uprights and reposition the components before the device is ready for play. Furthermore, the device when folded down and leaned against a wall for storage is susceptible to tipping over onto children or pets that may jar the device inadvertently.

Heretofore no known device has been adaptable for indoor home usage while still providing an arcade-type game. Hence, it would be an improvement to provide an arcade-type sports game device that is easily foldable for storage and may be rapidly deployed into its ready-to-play configuration.

Additionally, it would be an improvement to provide a foldable arcade-type sports game device which stores in a substantially vertical disposition resting on a stable base, thereby minimizing the amount of floor space occupied when the game is not in use.

It would be a further improvement to provide a foldable arcade-type sports game device which can be transformed rapidly from its vertical storage disposition to its ready-to-play configuration without disassembly of any of its component parts, particularly if such transformation procedure is simple and safe enough to be performed by a child.

Still another improvement would be to provide an arcade-type sports game device which enables head-to-head competition.

Yet another improvement would be to provide an arcade-type sports game device which electronically registers the score and visually displays a running score while simultaneously visually counting down the period of time during which made shots or tosses are counted. Another improvement would be to provide volume-adjustable audible acknowledgement of each basket or throw scored.

A further improvement would be to provide an arcade-type sports game device with a scoring mechanism which reduces extraneous scoring.

In view of the foregoing desirability of an indoor arcade-type sports game device and the typical space limitations experienced by homeowners, it is a primary object of the present invention to provide an arcade-type sports game device which is easily foldable for storage and may be rapidly deployed into its ready-to-play configuration.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an apparatus which stores in a substantially vertical disposition resting on a stable base, thereby minimizing the amount of floor space occupied when the game is not in use.

A further object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus which is an attractive and compact arcade-type sports game device which is mobile and which can be transformed rapidly from its vertical storage disposition to its ready-to-play configuration without disassembly of any of its component parts, and where the transformation procedure is simple and safe enough to be performed by a child.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an arcade-type sports game device which enables head-to-head competition.

A further object of the present invention is to provide an arcade-type sports game device which electronically registers and visually displays the score while simultaneously visually counting down the period of time during which made shots or throws are counted and audibly acknowledges each basket or throw scored.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide an arcade-type sports game device with a scoring mechanism which reduces extraneous scoring.

The foregoing objects are accomplished by an apparatus of the present invention which may be used in most homes to provide entertainment, amusement, and sports skill development.

The arcade-type sports game apparatus of the present invention utilizes a foldable framework comprising a support portion and an extended portion which is pivotally connected to the support portion. The support portion of the framework is capable of stable upright disposition independent of the position to which the extended portion is placed and comprises a pair of vertical legs and a pair of prop legs which brace the vertical legs. The extended portion of the framework is movable about its pivotal connection with the support portion between a substantially vertical disposition and a recumbent disposition.

A strike board is attached to the vertical legs so that the plane of the strike board is disposed vertically. If the arcade game is adapted for basketball, the strike board can serve as the backboard with a basketball goal attache thereto. If two basketball goals are used, the basketball game apparatus can accommodate two players in head-to-head basketball shooting competition. If the arcade game is adapted for sports involving throwing or tossing such as football, baseball or softball, the strike board can be provided with target openings through which a ball is tossed.

A ball return is attached to the framework to define a chute providing the return of each basketball shot at the basketball goal or goals or each ball thrown at or through the target openings. In a preferred embodiment, the ball return is flexible and is attached to the framework such that one end is secured to the vertical legs at what could be termed the head of the framework and the other end is attached to the extended portion at what could be termed the foot of the framework. The bottom of the ball return subtends the basketball goal or goals or target openings and inclines from the foot to the head of the framework such that a basketball shot towards one of the basketball goals or a ball thrown at a target opening from the foot of the framework will return to the player at the foot of the framework by rolling down the inclined bottom of the ball return.

The movement of the extended portion of the framework is restricted by a catch and detent assembly. In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the catch comprises a plate secured to one of the pivotal connections of the extended portion and the support portion of the framework, and the detent is secured to the extended portion so that it engages the plate as the extended portion is moved between its substantially vertical disposition and its recumbent disposition. On the plate are holes located to receive the detent in releasable engagement. For example, one hole, the ready hole, is located on the plate so that it receives the detent and thereby restricts further movement of the extended portion if the extended portion is in its ready-for-play, recumbent position. Another hole, the storage hole, is located on the plate so that it receives the detent and thereby restricts further movement of the extended portion if the extended portion is in its storage mode, disposed substantially Vertical Movement of the extended portion is permitted between the positions described by depressing the detent so that it disengages from the ready hole or the storage hole.

In another embodiment of the present invention, an additional hole, the safety hole, is provided along the path the detent travels and intermediate of the ready hole and the storage hole. This additional hole serves as a safety feature so that the weight of the extended portion and the ball return does not cause the extended portion to crash down when it is being deployed for play. During the movement of the extended portion from its storage position to its ready-for-play position, the detent engages the safety hole restricting further movement until the person deploying the apparatus releases the detent and further lowers the extended portion. In this manner, the likelihood of an undesired crashing of the extended portion to the floor is significantly reduced. Furthermore, the release of the detent in order to raise or lower the extended portion can be performed easily by most children and adults

Another embodiment of the present invention incorporates a plurality of height adjustable sections to render a basketball game apparatus height adjustable. In this embodiment, the vertical legs of the support portion are configured to receive in seated engagement one or more of the height adjustable sections in a stacked relationship. When tubing is used for the vertical legs, the seated engagement in a stacked relationship can be accomplished by using a single taper swage pole joint as pioneered by Lifetime Products, Inc. of Clearfield, Utah and as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,090,837, incorporated herein by this reference. In order to change the height of the device to accommodate ceiling height tolerances within homes, the user need only add or remove the appropriate size or number of height adjustment sections.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, an electronic scoring mechanism is provided which counts each basket scored or each throw passing through one of the target openings, tabulates a running score, counts the time remaining in the game, and displays the time remaining, the running score, and the final score. In addition, the scoring mechanism can provide an auditory acknowledgement of each basket scored or throw passing through on of the target openings, award additional time for play if a score of a predetermined score is achieved, provide comparative running and final scores, and maintain and display the highest score achieved on the apparatus. The scoring mechanism is constructed with known electronic circuitry which is actuated by the movement of an arm connected to a switch. The arm is movable between a ready position and a reactive position and as the arm moves from the ready position to the reactive position it actuates the switch which thereby communicates with the electronic circuitry that a basket has been scored or that a ball has been thrown through one of the target openings.

For a basketball arcade game, the arm is disposed to subtend the basketball goal so that any ball of at least a minimum diameter that passes through the basketball goal will engage the arm causing it to move from its ready position to the reactive position as the ball drops to the ball return. The arm is biased to the ready position so that as the ball disengages the arm, it returns from its reactive position to its ready position to await the scoring of another basket. In a preferred embodiment of the arm, the arm is configured with a curvature for receiving the ball. This curvature causes the ball to momentarily settle within the curvature which directs the weight of the ball to a position which will score the basket made. Thus, the curvature enables the tension of the biasing of the arm to be increased which reduces extraneous scoring (i.e., scoring that is caused by a ball striking the arm although the ball did not pass through the basketball goal).

For most other sports arcade games, an arm is disposed to subtend each target opening so that any ball of at least a minimum size that passes through a target opening will engage an arm causing it to move from its ready position to the reactive position as the ball drops to the ball return. To facilitate the scoring, a plurality of dividers is provided to separate areas rearward of the strike board, thereby defining a separate scoring channel for each target opening. Each arm is biased to the ready position so that as a ball disengages an arm, it returns from its reactive position to its ready position to await the scoring of another throw. In a preferred embodiment of the arm, the arm is configured with tines for a forked extension for receiving the ball. This forked extension causes any ball passing through one of the scoring channels to engage one of the tines disposed within that scoring channel so that a score is recorded for the successful toss of the ball through a target opening. Since in the preferred embodiment, each arm is disposed in a scoring channel rearward of the strike board, each arm is shielded from ball engagement unless the ball passes through a target opening. This reduces extraneous scoring.

Another preferred embodiment of the present invention for most other sports arcade games utilizes paddles disposed rearward and adjacent to each target opening so that a ball that substantially encroaches or passes through a target opening will engage a paddle causing it to move from its ready position to the reactive position a the ball drops to the ball return. To facilitate the movement of each paddle from the ready position to the reactive position and back, a plurality of dividers is provided to separate areas rearward of the strike board, thereby defining a space within which each paddle can operate. Each paddle is biased to the ready position so that as a ball disengages a paddle, it returns from its reactive position to its ready position to await the scoring of another throw. In a preferred embodiment of the paddle, each paddle has a transverse dimension substantially the same or slightly smaller than the transverse dimension of each corresponding target opening. Since with this preferred embodiment each disposed rearward of the strike board and exposed to engagement with each ball that passes through a target opening, scoring credit can be awarded for each throw that engages the paddle in a manner sufficient to move the paddle to its reactive position, although the ball may not pass completely through the target opening.

These and other objects and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent through the following description and appended claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

In order that the manner in which the above-recited and other advantages and objects of the invention are obtained, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the arcade-type basketball game apparatus of the present invention showing the extended portion of the framework deployed in its ready-to-play position and showing two players engaged in head-to-head competition.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the arcade-type basketball game apparatus of the present invention showing the extended portion of the framework deployed in its storage position whereby the ball return forms a pouch within which basketballs can be stored, and also having a portion of the ball return cut away to show a visual display for the scoring mechanism.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of one of the vertical uprights to which the backboard is attached showing the overhang to which the ball return is connected, a partial cutaway view of a plurality of height adjustment sections, and the height adjustment hook clamp.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the area of the framework identified at arrow 4--4 in FIG. 1 showing the catch plate and detent when the extended portion is deployed in its ready-to-play position.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the area of the framework identified at arrow 5--5 in FIG. 2 showing the catch plate and detent when the extended portion is deployed in its storage position.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the basket counter assembly partially cut away to show the cam and switch.

FIG. 7 is a sectional view of the basket counter assembly along line 7--7 showing the extending arm disposed in its ready position.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the basket counter assembly showing the extending arm disposed in a reactive position.

FIG. 9 is frontal perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the present invention adapted for a sport involving the tossing of a ball showing a strike board with a plurality of target openings.

FIG. 10 is a sectional perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 9 showing a modified counter assembly disposed rearward of the strike board and within a scoring channel, and also showing in phantom lines the disposition of the arm for the counter assembly when actuated by a ball passing through the scoring channel.

FIG. is frontal perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the present invention adapted for a sport involving the tossing of a ball showing a strike board with a plurality of target openings and paddles for actuating a counter assembly.

FIG. 12 is a sectional perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 11 showing a modified counter assembly disposed rearward of the strike board and within a scoring channel, and also showing in phantom lines the disposition of the paddle for the counter assembly when actuated by a ball striking the paddle or passing through the target opening.

Referring now specifically to the drawings, wherein like numerals indicate like parts throughout, the arcade-type game apparatus is generally designated 10. Game apparatus 10 is comprised of a framework 12, a target member 13 and a ball return 14. When the game apparatus 10 is adapted for use as an arcade basketball game, the target member 13 comprises one or more basketball goals 16.

As shown in FIG. 1, the framework 12 comprises a support portion 18 and an extended portion 20. The support portion 18 is disposed upright resting on a four-point stable base and comprises a pair of substantially vertical legs or members 22, a pair of prop members 24, and a U-shaped brace 26 which are interconnected. Vertical members 22 are braced by the prop members 24 for disposition in a substantially vertical plane, and the U-shaped brace 26 secures the relative positions of the prop members 24 and the vertical members 22 so that the support portion 18 stably rests on a floor or other flat surface.

The extended portion 20 comprises a pair of legs 28 and a foot 30 therebetween. Each leg 28 is pivotally connected to one of the prop members 24 so that the extended portion 20 is movable about such pivot between a substantially vertical position for storage (as shown in FIG. 2) and a recumbent position for use (as shown in FIG. 1). When in the recumbent, ready-for-play position, the extended portion 20 rests on the floor or other surface and the foot 30 serves to support the ball return 14.

The ball return 14 is an elongated chute which comprises a bottom 32 and a pair of side walls 34. For an arcade game adapted for basketball one end of the ball return 14 (the proximate end) is attached at the head of the framework 12 to the support portion 18 such that the bottom 32 subtends the basketball goals 16 while the side walls 34 extend upwardly. In a preferred embodiment, each vertical member 22 of the support portion 18 has an overhang 36 from which one of the side walls 34 is suspended as shown in FIGS. 1-3. The other end of the ball return 14 (the distal end) is attached at the foot of the framework 12 to the foot 30 such that the bottom 32 generally inclines from the foot of the framework 12 to the head of the framework 12 (See FIG. 1). With this basketball adapted configuration, basketballs 38 that are shot towards the basketball goals 16 generally drop onto the ball return 14 bottom 32, whether the shot is successful or not, and roll back to the foot area of the framework 12 for retrieval and subsequent shots at the goal 16.

Although the ball return 14 may be constructed of any of a number of materials, it is preferred that the bottom 32 be flexible and that the side walls 34 be constructed of a flexible see-through material or netting, and that the means for attaching the ball return 14 to the framework 12 be straps 40 utilizing velcro fasteners. When the bottom 32 and the side walls 34 are flexible, the ball return 14 can double as a storage pouch for the basketballs 38 if the game apparatus 10 is folded as shown in FIG. 2. Additionally, although over time the ball return 14 may stretch or sag somewhat, the straps 40 can be resecured to the framework 12 to adjust for such stretching or sagging. Although straps 40 are preferred, other means for attaching the ball return 14 to the framework 12 may be used without departing from the spirit of the invention.

The game apparatus 10 of the present invention which is adapted for basketball may have a target member 13 comprising one or two basketball goals 16. The basketball goals 16 are secured to the support portion 18 of the framework 12. In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 1, two basketball goals 16 are disposed in side-by-side, spaced relationship. This disposition enables two players to engage in simultaneous head-to-head basketball shooting competition with each player shooting at one of the basketball goals 16.

Turning specifically now to FIGS. 4 and 5, at one of the pivots for the extended portion 20 with the support portion 18, a catch plate 42 is provided to restrict the pivotal movement of the extended portion 20. In the preferred embodiment shown, the catch plate 42 is secured to the prop member 24 by bolts 44, one of which serves also as a pivot pin 46 and the leg 28 of the extended portion 20 is pivotally secured to the prop member 24 at the pivot pin 46. The catch plate 42 has a plurality of holes, a storage hole 48, a ready hole 50, and an optional safety hole 52. The leg 28 of extended portion 20 has a detent 54 comprised of a biasing member 56 and a button 58 which engages the catch plate 42 and travels a path along the catch plate 42 as the extended portion 20 moves between its storage and recumbent positions.

The ready hole 50 is located in the catch plate 42 such that the button 58 of the detent 54 engages and enters the ready hole 50 if the extended portion 20 is disposed in its recumbent, ready-for-play position (FIGS. 1 and 4). Hence, the extended portion 20 is restricted from further movement until the button 58 of the detent 54 is depressed sufficiently that the button 58 exits the ready hole 50.

The storage hole 48 is located in the catch plate 42 such that the button 58 of the detent 54 engages and enters the storage hole 48 if the extended portion 20 is disposed in its upright, storage position (FIGS. 2 and 5). The extended portion 20 is restricted from further movement until the button 58 of the detent 54 is depressed sufficiently that the button 58 exits the storage hole 48.

In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the safety hole 52 is provided which is located on the path that the detent 54 travels and intermediate of the ready hole 50 and the storage hole 48. The purpose of the safety hole 52 is to interrupt the movement of the extended portion 20 from the storage position to the ready-for-play position, so that the extended portion 20 will not crash inadvertently into its recumbent disposition if the person unfolding the game apparatus 10 should lose a proper grip while raising or lowering the extended portion 20.

It should be understood that other types of catches may be used to control and restrict the pivotal movement of the extended portion 20, but the catch plate 42 and detent 54 as described is preferred because it can be operated rapidly and safely, even by a child.

With the embodiments of the present invention as described above, it should be readily understood that game apparatus 10 can be stored in an upright disposition which minimizes the amount of floor space it occupies. Additionally, the mobility of the game apparatus 10 is enhanced when so disposed thereby permitting easy relocation and easy cleaning beneath the game apparatus 10. Further, the game apparatus 10 can be deployed from its storage disposition to its ready-for-play disposition merely by releasing the extended portion 20 by depressing the button 58 and lowering the extended portion 20 until the button 58 engages the ready hole 50. After play is completed, the game apparatus 10 can easily be folded for storage by merely releasing the extended portion 20 by depressing the button 58 and lifting the extended portion 20 until the button 58 engages the storage hole 48.

For an arcade game adapted for basketball, it is preferred that the target member 13 further comprise a single strike board or backboard 60 which is secured to the head of the framework 12 such that the plane of the backboard 60 is substantially vertical. The basketball goal or goals 16 are secured to the backboard 60. As shown in FIG. 3 for a basketball adaptation, a preferred means for attaching the backboard 60 to the vertical members 22 of the framework 12 utilizes an upper bolt 62 and a hook clamp 64. Other means for attachment may be used, but this means enables the height of the game apparatus to be adjusted without removing the backboard 60 from the framework 12 as will be described more fully below.

Since the ceiling tolerances in homes vary, it is advantageous for the present invention to be height adjustable. FIG. 3 illustrates a plurality of height adjustment sections 66 that can be used to adjust the height of the game apparatus 10. Each height adjustment section 66 has a flared end and a tapered end to facilitate the seating of the height adjustment sections 66 in a stacked engagement. The tapered end of a height adjustment section 66 can be inserted into a flared end of the vertical member 22 to form a single taper swage joint. By so seating or removing one or more of the height adjustment sections 66 from the connection of the vertical member 22 and the overhang 36, the height of the game apparatus 10 may be adjusted. Furthermore, by merely loosening the upper bolt 62 and the hook clamp 64, height adjustment sections 66 may be inserted or removed thereby adjusting the height of the game apparatus 10 without removing the backboard 60.

An attractive feature of a preferred embodiment of the present invention is a scoring mechanism (generally designated 68) which maintains the time and counts the score. The scoring mechanism 68 comprises a visual display 70, an arm 72 and a switch 74. Although it is preferred that the scoring mechanism 68 be electronic and provide certain features, the scoring mechanism could be mechanical or provide different features without departing from the spirit of the invention.

By using electronic circuitry known and readily available, the scoring mechanism 68 can provide a visual display (e.g., an LCD display) which visually counts down time remaining in the game, displays running scores (for one or two players), displays the final scores (for one or two players) at the conclusion of the game, and maintains the highest score achieved for display after each game. Additionally, the scoring mechanism 68 can provide non-visual features such as awarding extra time for play if a predetermined score is achieved, giving volume-adjustable auditory acknowledgement for each basket scored, giving different auditory signals for baskets scored on different basketball goals 16, and providing automatic shut-off features.

In FIGS. 6 through 8, the arm 72 and switch 74 of a preferred embodiment of the scoring mechanism 68 of the present invention are illustrated. The arm 72 is pivotally connected to a bracket housing 76 such that under force it can move between a ready position (FIG. 7) and a reactive position (FIG. 8). At the pivoting end of the arm 72 is a cam 78 which engages and actuates the switch 74 as the arm 72 passes from the ready position to the reactive position. The switch 74 which communicates with the electronic circuitry of the scoring mechanism 68, signals the electronic circuitry that a basket has been scored. The score is then tabulated and displayed on the visual display 70. When the force on the arm 72 is released, a biasing spring 80 returns the arm 72 from the reactive position to the ready position and the switch 74 is reset awaiting another basket to be scored.

The arm 72 is disposed to subtend the basketball goal 16 so that any ball 38 of at least a minimum diameter that passes through the basketball goal 16 will engage the arm 72. The weight of the ball 38 and the force at which it strikes the arm 72 causes the arm 72 to move from its ready position to the reactive position as the ball 38 drops to the ball return 14. This actuates the switch 74 which signals the electronic circuitry which, in turn, displays the new score. Since the arm 72 is biased to the ready position, as the ball 38 disengages the arm 72, the arm 72 returns from its reactive position to its ready position to await the scoring of another basket.

In a preferred embodiment of the arm 72, the arm 72 is configured with a curvature 82 for receiving the ball 38. This curvature 82 urges the ball 38 to momentarily settle within the curvature 82 thereby directing the weight of the ball 38 to a position which will assure that the arm 72 will move to the reactive position, scoring the basket made. The curvature 82 enables the tension of the biasing of the arm 72 to be increased so that a threshold force is required to move the arm 72 sufficiently to score a basket. Balls 38 striking the arm 72 at an improper angle (having not passed through a basketball goal 16) will not usually cause the arm 72 to move sufficiently to actuate the switch 74. Hence, the curvature 82 of the arm 72 serves to reduce extraneous scoring.

Turning now to FIGS. 9 and 10, another preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The game apparatus 10 of FIGS. 9 and 10 is adapted for use as a sports arcade game involving the tossing or throwing of an object or ball. With some modifications, the game apparatus 10 is constructed similar to the basketball adaptation described above. The framework 12 comprises a support portion 18 and an extended portion 20. The support portion 18 is disposed upright resting on a four-point stable base and comprises a pair of substantially vertical legs or members 22, a pair of prop members 24 (not shown in FIGS. 9 or 10), and a U-shaped brace 26 (not shown in FIGS. 9 or 10) which are interconnected. Vertical members 22 are braced by the prop members 24 for disposition in a substantially vertical plane, and the U-shaped brace 26 secures the relative positions of the prop members 24 and the vertical members 22 so that the support portion 18 stably rests on a floor or other flat surface.

The extended portion 20 comprises a pair of legs 28 and a foot 30 therebetween. Each leg 28 is pivotally connected to one of the prop members 24 so that the extended portion 20 is movable about such pivot between a substantially vertical position for storage (as shown in FIG. 2) and a recumbent position for use (as shown in FIG. 9). When in the recumbent, ready-for-play position, the extended portion 20 rests on the floor or other surface and the foot 30 serves to support the ball return 14.

For an arcade game adapted for sports such as football, baseball, or softball, one end of the ball return 14 (the proximate end) is attached at the head of the framework 12 to the support portion 18 such that it extends upwardly rearward of and spaced from the strike board 60 of target member 13. The target member 13 comprises a strike board 60 with one or more target openings 83. The object of the game is to throw or toss a ball or other object through one of the target openings 83. The target openings 83 may be configured in various sizes to introduce various degrees of difficulty in tossing a ball or other object through one of the target openings 83. Rearward of the strike board 60 are a plurality of dividers 84 which separate the space rearward of the strike board 60 into scoring channels 86 associated with each target opening 83. Each scoring channel 86 is defined by the back of the strike board 60, one or more dividers 84, and a portion of the ball return 14 which serves as a back 88. The portion of the ball return 14 characterized as the bottom 32 subtends the target openings 83 in the strike board 60 while the side walls 34 extend upwardly.

In a preferred embodiment, each vertical member 22 of the support portion 18 has an overhang 36 from which one of the side walls 34 is suspended as shown in FIG. 9. The other end of the ball return 14 (the distal end) is attached at the foot of the framework 12 to the foot 30 such that the bottom 32 generally inclines from the foot of the framework 12 to the head of the framework 12.

With this sports adapted configuration, a football, baseball or the like which is thrown or tossed towards one of the target openings 83 in the strike board 60 generally drop onto the ball return 14 bottom 32, whether the throw is successful or not, and roll back to the foot area of the framework 12 for retrieval and subsequent tosses at one of the target openings 83.

In the same manner as described above for the basketball arcade game, this sports adapted configuration may be folded and unfolded for storage and use (see specifically the description relating to FIGS. 4 and 5). Also, the sports adapted configuration may be provided with a scoring mechanism 68 which maintains the time and counts the score. As described above, the scoring mechanism 68 comprises a visual display 70, an arm 72 and a switch 74 (not shown in FIGS. 9 or 10). By using electronic circuitry known and readily available, the scoring mechanism 68 can provide a visual display (e.g., an LCD display) which visually counts down time remaining in the game, displays running scores (for one or more players), displays the final scores (for one or more players) at the conclusion of the game, and maintains the highest score achieved for display after each game. Additionally, the scoring mechanism 68 can provide non-visual features such as awarding extra time for play if a predetermined score is achieved, giving volume-adjustable auditory acknowledgement for each target hit, giving different auditory signals for different target openings 83 hit, and providing automatic shut-off features.

In FIG. 10, the arm 72 for the embodiment used for sports involving throwing or tossing is illustrated with particularity. The arm 72 is pivotally connected to a bracket housing 76 such that under force it can move between a ready position and a reactive position (shown in phantom lines). At the pivoting end of the arm 72 is a cam 78 (not shown in FIG. 10) which engages and actuates the switch 74 as the arm 72 passes from the ready position to the reactive position. The switch 74 which communicates with the electronic circuitry of the scoring mechanism 68, signals the electronic circuitry that a ball has passed through a particular target opening 83. The score is then tabulated and displayed on the visual display 70. When the force on the arm 72 is released, a biasing spring 80 (not shown in FIG. 10) returns the arm 72 from the reactive position to the ready position and the switch 74 is reset awaiting another score.

An arm 72 is disposed below each target opening 83 so that any ball of at least a minimum size that passes through one of the scoring channels 86 will engage an arm 72. The weight of the ball and the force at which it strikes the arm 72 causes the arm 72 to move from its ready position to the reactive position as the ball drops to the ball return 14 bottom 32. This actuates the switch 74 which signals the electronic circuitry which, in turn, displays the new score. Since the arm 72 is biased to the ready position, as the ball disengages the arm 72, the arm 72 returns from its reactive position to its ready position to await another score caused by a ball passing through a target opening 83 and scoring channel 86.

In a preferred embodiment of the arm 72, the arm 72 is configured with a plurality of tines 90 for receiving the ball. These tines 90 extend transverse to the scoring channel 86 so that a ball of predetermined minimum size cannot pass through the scoring channel 86 without engaging one of the tines 90. The weight of the ball moves the arm 72 to the reactive position, scoring a successful toss. Since each arm 72 is disposed rearward of the strike board 60, only balls passing through one of the target openings 83 will engage one of the arms 72 and actuate the switch 74. Hence, the disposition of each arm 72 serves to reduce extraneous scoring.

Also, a curvature 82 may be provided in each tine 90. This curvature 82 urges the ball to momentarily settle within the curvature 82 thereby directing the weight of the ball to a position which will assure that the arm 72 will move to the reactive position, scoring the successful throw or toss. The curvature 82 further facilitates the return of odd shaped balls such as footballs by aiding the positioning of the ball into a rolling disposition rather than an end over end return to the game player.

In FIGS. 11 and 12, another preferred embodiment is illustrated for use with games involving throwing or tossing. A paddle 73 is pivotally connected to a bracket housing 76 such that under force it can move between a ready position and a reactive position (shown in phantom lines). At the pivoting end of the paddle 73 is a cam 78 (not shown in FIGS. 11 or 12) which engages and actuates the switch 74 as the paddle 73 passes from the ready position to the reactive position. The switch 74 which communicates with the electronic circuitry of the scoring mechanism 68, signals the electronic circuitry that a ball has struck the paddle 73 with sufficient force to move the paddle 73 or the a ball has passed through a particular target opening 83. The score is then tabulated and displayed on the visual display 70. When the force applied to the paddle 73 is released, a biasing spring 80 (not shown in FIGS. 11 or 12) returns the paddle 73 from the reactive position to the ready position and the switch 74 is reset awaiting another score.

A paddle 73 is disposed adjacent to and rearward of each target opening 83 s that the paddle 73 is exposed for scoring engagement with a ball. A score is credited if a ball strikes a paddle 73 with sufficient force to cause it to move to its reactive position or if a ball passes through one of the target openings 83. The force at which a ball strikes the paddle 73 causes the paddle 73 to move from its ready position to the reactive position. This actuates the switch 74 which signals the electronic circuitry which, in turn, displays the new score. Since the paddle 73 is biased to the ready position, as the ball disengages the paddle 73, the paddle 73 returns from its reactive position to its ready position to await another successful scoring toss.

In a preferred embodiment of the paddle 73, the paddle 73 is configured to have a transverse dimension substantially equal to or slightly less than the transverse dimension of the target opening 73 to which it corresponds. If the force at which a ball strikes the paddle 73 is sufficient, it moves the paddle 73 to the reactive position, scoring a successful toss. Since each paddle 73 is disposed rearward of the strike board 60, only balls striking one of the paddles 73 or passing through one of the target openings 83 will actuate the switch 74. Hence, the disposition of each paddle 73 serves to reduce extraneous scoring but permits scoring although the ball may not pass through one of the target openings 83.

If desired, a second scoring mechanism (not shown, but similar to scoring mechanism 68 illustrated in FIG. 10) could be disposed rearward of the strike board 60 and subtending the target opening 83 to be used in conjunction with a paddle 73 actuated scoring mechanism 68. By using a second scoring mechanism, there can be a scoring differentiation between balls that merely strike a paddle 73 and those that pass through a target opening 83 and engage the second scoring mechanism.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

## Claims

is:

1. A portable foldable game apparatus upon which games involving tossing may be played, comprising: portion of said framework comprising a substantially vertical member and a prop member connected to and bracing said substantially vertical member so that said support portion is supported in an upright disposition upon a base portion of said substantially vertical member and said prop member, said extended portion being pivotally connected proximate to said base portion of said prop member and being movable between a first position and a second position, and said support portion being configured to maintain its upright disposition independent of whether said extended portion is disposed in the first position or the second position; said extended portion for securing said extended portion in the first position if said extended portion is disposed in the first position and for securing said extended portion in the second position if said extended portion is disposed in the second position; position remote and elevated from said base portion of said substantially vertical member and

2. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein the first position is when said extended portion is disposed in a substantially upright disposition so that the game apparatus is in a nonuse, storage mode.

3. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein the second position is when said extended portion is disposed in a recumbent disposition so that the game apparatus is deployed in a ready-for-play mode.

4. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein said releasable means for securing said extended portion comprises: releasable engagement.

5. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 4, wherein said catch comprises a plate with a plurality of holes each capable of receiving said detent in releasable engagement, said holes disposed at predetermined locations on said plate, one of said holes being disposed such that said detent engages such hole if said extended portion is in the first position, thereby releasably securing said extended portion in the first position.

6. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 4, wherein said catch comprises a plate with a plurality of holes each capable of receiving said detent in releasable engagement, said holes disposed at predetermined locations on said plate, one of said holes being disposed such that said detent engage such hole if said extended portion is in the second position, thereby releasably securing said extended portion in the second position.

7. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 4, wherein said catch comprises a plate with a plurality of holes each capable of receiving said detent in releasable engagement, said holes disposed at predetermined locations on said plate, one of said holes serving as a safety hole being disposed such that said detent engage such safety hole if said extended portion is disposed intermediate of the first position and the second position, thereby releasably securing said extended portion intermediate of the first position and the second position and impeding the movement of said extended portion between the first position and the second position.

8. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein said target member comprises a strike board connected to said substantially vertical member such that the plane of said strike board is disposed substantially vertical, said strike board having a plurality of target openings.

9. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 8, wherein said target openings are configured in a plurality of sizes.

10. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 8, wherein said target member further comprises a plurality of dividers disposed rearward of said strike board and substantially vertically between said target openings to define scoring channels, a scoring channel being provided for each target opening.

11. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein said ball return comprises: support portion and extending rearward of said target member; said ball return having a distal end connected to said extended portion such that if said extended portion is deployed in the second position said bottom portion also subtends said target member and inclines from its distal end to its proximate end; and bottom portion between its proximate end and its distal end, thereby defining a chute for the return of objects thrown at said target member.

12. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 11, wherein said bottom portion and said side walls are flexible such that if said extended portion is disposed in the first position, said ball return folds forming a pouch for storage while the game apparatus is not in use.

13. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 11, wherein said support portion further comprises a pair of overhang members from which at least a portion of one of said side walls is suspended from each overhang member.

14. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 1, further comprising adjustable straps connected to said ball return for securing said ball return to said framework.

15. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 1, further comprising a scoring mechanism for displaying the score of the game during play and at the conclusion of play.

16. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 15, wherein said scoring mechanism comprises: near said target member; and

17. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 16, wherein said scoring mechanism comprises a timer and said means for visual display displays the amount of time remaining in each game as such game is being played.

18. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 16, wherein said means for visual display displays a running score as each game is being played and a final score at the conclusion of each game.

19. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 16, wherein said target member comprises a strike board with at least two target openings being disposed in spaced relationship, and said means for visual display displays comparative running scores as each game is being played and a final comparative score at the conclusion of each game.

20. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 16, wherein said target member comprises a strike board with a plurality of target openings and said counter assembly comprises: arm being in actuating communication with said switch, and said arm extending rearward of said target member such that each ball or other object of predetermined size which passes through one of said target openings engages said arm causing it to move from the ready position to the reactive position thereby actuating said switch to count a score in the game.

21. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 20, wherein said arm is configured with a curvature for receiving a ball or other object of predetermined size in momentary engagement.

22. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 20, wherein said arm is configured with a plurality of tines for receiving a ball or other object of predetermined size in momentary engagement.

23. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 16, wherein said target member comprises a strike board with a plurality of target openings and said counter assembly comprises: play; and ready position and a reactive position, each said paddle being in actuating communication with one of said switches, and each said paddle being disposed rearward of said corresponding target opening such that each ball or other object that strikes said paddle with a predetermined amount of force engages said paddle causing it to move from the ready position to the reactive position thereby actuating said switch to count a score in the game.

24. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 23, wherein each said paddle is configured with a transverse dimension substantially equal to or less than the transverse dimension of the corresponding target opening.

25. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 15, wherein said target member comprises a strike board with a plurality of target openings and said scoring mechanism comprises means for providing an auditory signal each time a ball or other object of predetermined size passes through one of said target openings during the time period for playing the game.

26. A foldable game apparatus as set forth in claim 15, wherein said target member comprises a strike board with at least two target openings being disposed in spaced relationship, and said scoring mechanism comprises means for providing distinct auditory signals corresponding to each target opening each time a ball or other object of predetermined size passes through one of said target openings during the time period for playing the game.

27. A method for folding for nonuse and storage in a substantially upright disposition a portable game apparatus having a framework with a support portion and an extended portion pivotally connected to the support portion, a ball return connected to the framework, and a target connected to said support portion, the extended portion being movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the support portion is configured to maintain an upright disposition independent of whether the extended portion is disposed in the first position or the second position, and further having a releasable means for securing said extended portion in the first position if said extended portion is disposed in the first position and for securing said extended portion in the second position if said extended portion is disposed in the second position, comprising the steps of: movement upwardly from the second position to the first position; first position; and extended portion for disposition in the first position, thereby rendering the game unusable by disposing the ball return to block access to the target.

28. A method as set forth in claim 27, wherein said game apparatus further comprises a safety means communicating with the releasable means for impeding the movement of the extended portion between the second position and the first position, and the method further comprises the step of disengaging the safety means thereby permitting the extended portion to move to the first position.

29. A method for unfolding for use a portable folded game apparatus having a framework with a support portion and an extended portion pivotally connected to the support portion, a ball return connected to the framework, and a target connected to the support portion, the extended portion being movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the support portion is configured to maintain an upright disposition independent of whether the extended portion is disposed in the first position or the second position, and a releasable means for securing said extended portion in the first position if said extended portion is disposed in the first position and for securing said extended portion in the second position if said extended portion is disposed in the second position, comprising the steps of: movement downwardly from the nonuse, first position to the second position where the ball return blocks access to the target; second position such that the ball return is positioned to return balls directed toward the target; and extended portion for disposition in the ready-for-play, second position.

30. A method as set forth in claim 29, wherein said game apparatus further comprises a safety means communicating with the releasable means for impeding the movement of the extended portion between the first position and the second position and the method further comprises the step of disengaging the safety means thereby permitting the extended portion to move to the second position.