Patent Publication Number: US-8109518-B2

Title: Game apparatus and method of using the same

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/812,154, entitled “Game Apparatus and Method of Using the Same,” filed Jun. 9, 2006, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. This application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/888,735, entitled “Game Apparatus and Method of Using the Same,” filed Feb. 7, 2007, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Games involving launching objects into the air at a target are popular with children. Children enjoy toys that spin, bounce, vibrate, or otherwise move. In some conventional games involving launching objects at a target, the target typically has been stationary. Often, the game was over when all the objects had been thrown at the target. Further, those games did not differentiate between various objects caught in the target, and if an object was caught, and unless another object knocked it down, it stayed in the target. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure is directed to a game in which players launch, shoot, or propel objects at a target, and more specifically, to a game in which players launch, shoot, or propel objects in an attempt to attach the objects to a target that may be in motion, or to dislodge objects that are hanging from the target. 
     In one implementation of a game according to the invention, each player is given an equal amount of projectile objects and a launcher or launching mechanism. The players simultaneously begin launching their objects at a target or target assembly. Depending on the particular game being played, the players attempt to hook or catch their objects on the target and/or knock already hanging objects of other players off the target. While players are launching their objects at the target, the target may be rotating, spinning, bouncing, swaying, or in some similar form of motion, making it more difficult to hit the target. The motion of the target may be constant or in intermittent intervals. The target may be provided with a delay mechanism, such as a suction device and/or a spring or biasing mechanism, such that when the delay mechanism operates, the target may make a sudden movement, which may dislodge some objects from the target. 
     The games of the present disclosure will be understood more readily after a consideration of the drawings and Detailed Description. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a game according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is an exploded perspective view of some of the components of the game illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of some of the components of the game illustrated in  FIG. 1  in different configurations. 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded perspective view of the some of the components of the support of the game illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is an internal view of some of the components of the game illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 6  is a partial internal view of some of the components illustrated in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is a side view of an embodiment of a coupler according to the present invention. 
         FIGS. 8 and 9  are a perspective view and a top view, respectively, of some of the components of the drive mechanism and the base of the game illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 10  is a top view of some of the components of the drive mechanism of the game illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIGS. 11 and 12  are a top view and a side view, respectively, of an embodiment of a latch according to the present invention. 
         FIGS. 13 and 14  are a top view and a side view, respectively, of an embodiment of a disk according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 15  is an exploded side view of some of the components of the game illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 16  is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of an upper coupler according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 17  is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a lower coupler according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 18  is a partial perspective view of some of the components of the game illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 19  is a bottom view of an embodiment of a target portion of the game illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 20  is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a launching mechanism according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 21  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a target in the form of a palm tree, showing projectile objects in the form of monkeys having long, hooked arms hanging from target areas which are shown as palm tree leaves. 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view of the base and shaft portions of the palm tree-like target shown in  FIG. 21 . 
         FIG. 23  is a bottom view of a base of the palm tree-like target shown in  FIGS. 21-22 , showing electrical and mechanical components including batteries, and electric motor, a gear train, and an eccentric weight housed within the base of the target. 
         FIG. 24  is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a target formed like a palm tree, showing projectile objects in the form of monkeys hanging from palm tree leaf target areas and resting on launcher. 
         FIG. 25  is an in-the-air perspective view of the palm tree-like target shown in  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view of the palm tree-like target shown in  FIGS. 24-25 , showing the apparatus being rolled to a side by a user to start the target rocking. 
         FIG. 27  is a view of another embodiment, featuring a palm-tree like target with a base which includes a suction cup timing mechanism. 
         FIG. 28  shows a close-up view of the suction cup timing mechanism seen in  FIG. 27 . 
         FIG. 29  is a top perspective view of a target in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the top of the target areas which are formed as palm tree leaves defining a plurality of apertures. 
         FIG. 30  is a top perspective view of the target shown in  FIG. 29 , showing the palm tree leaf-like target areas removed from the base and shaft portions of the target. 
         FIG. 31  is a perspective view of the target shown in  FIGS. 29-30 , showing projectile objects hanging from the target areas and resting on the launching devices. 
         FIG. 32  is a perspective view of projectile objects in the form of bananas in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing opposing sides of the projectile objects resembling bananas. 
         FIG. 33  is a perspective view of a launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing a spring disposed between a base and a launching board. 
         FIG. 34  is a top view of the launcher shown in  FIG. 33 , showing a user engaging the spring of the launcher by pressing on the launching board. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     A toy game comprises a target or target assembly and at least one object that can be launched or propelled toward the target. The target can be mounted for movement in several directions, thereby changing the level of difficulty of game play using the target. For example, the target can rotate, sway back and forth, be raised up, and be lowered down. The target can move during game play. The toy game can include a timing element which causes the target to move after a certain period of time has elapsed. For example, the target can pop upwardly after the period of time has elapsed, thereby causing some of the objects on the target to disengage from the target. 
     The terms “target” and “target assembly” are used interchangeably to refer to a structure at which an object can be launched or propelled. The terms “launcher” and “launching mechanism” are used interchangeably to refer to a device that can be actuated by a user to launch or propel an object in a particular direction. The term “object” may be used interchangeably with “launching object” and “projecting object” and is intended to refer to an item that can be launched, propelled, or shot into the air in a particular direction. The terms “shaft,” “support,” and “support member” are used interchangeably herein. The terms “movable element” and “movable member” are used to refer to an element that can move in one or more directions. Several examples of movable elements or members are described herein. 
     A toy game  10  according to an embodiment of the invention is illustrated in  FIG. 1 . In this embodiment, the game  10  includes a base  100  and a target or target assembly  300 . The game  10  also includes several sets of playing objects that can be used with the base  100  and the target assembly  300 . 
     In this embodiment, the game  10  includes several launchers or launching mechanisms  900 ,  920 ,  930 , and  940  that can be launched. Each of the launching mechanisms is in the shape of a lily pad and is made of a plastic material and can be of a different color than the other launching mechanisms, thereby facilitating the distinctions between them. The game  10  also includes several groups of objects  950 ,  960 ,  970 , and  980 . Each object in a particular group matches the other objects in that group. For example, each object is made of a plastic material can be color-coded to match a color of a particular launching mechanism. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , one of the objects  950  is described in greater detail. Object  952  includes a body  954  with arms  956  and legs  958 . Arms  956  and legs  958  extend from the body  954  and form catches or hook-like structures can engage a portion of the target assembly  300  so that the object  952  is supported on the target assembly  300 . In this embodiment, the objects are formed to resemble frogs. In other embodiments, the shape and/or configuration of the objects can vary. For example, the objects can be formed to resemble other animals, such as monkeys. In alternative embodiments, the launching mechanisms and the projectile objects can be formed of different materials and may include distinguishing characteristics other than color. Also, the quantity of objects that are in a group associated with a particular launching mechanism can vary. 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the target assembly  300  is formed to resemble a tree-like structure that includes branches. As shown, the target assembly  300  includes a support  310  that resembles a tree trunk with a top or upper portion  430  and several target areas of branches  350 ,  370 ,  390 , and  410 . Each of the upper portion  430  and the branches  350 ,  370 ,  390 , and  410  forms a target or target area at which the objects  950 ,  960 ,  970 , and  980  can be launched or projected. 
     During operation of the game  10 , a player places an object, such as object  952 , on launching mechanism  900  and actuates the launching mechanism  900  to propel the object  952  toward the upper portion  430  or one of the branches  350 ,  370 ,  390 , and  410 . As will be described in greater detail below, each player can attempt to get as many of that player&#39;s objects onto the upper portion  430  and the branches  350 ,  370 ,  390 , and  410  before the game ends. The player with the most objects remaining on the target  300  at the end of the game is the winner. Each player may also attempt to launch objects at the target  300  to knock the objects of the other players off the target  300 . Each of these components as well as different modes of operation will be described in greater detail below. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , an exploded perspective view of target assembly  300  is illustrated. In this embodiment, the target assembly  300  includes a base  100  and a shaft or support  310  that can be coupled to the base  100 . In one embodiment, support  310  is elongate and can be referred to as an elongate support or a support member. 
     Base  100  includes a housing  102  with an upper portion  104  and a lower portion  106  that are coupled together. A projection  108  extends upwardly from the upper surface of the upper portion  104 . The projection  108  has an upper end  110  with an opening  112  formed therein. The opening  112  is in communication with the interior of the housing  102  where a drive mechanism (discussed in detail below) is located. While the projection  108  resembles a bottom portion of a tree trunk, in alternative embodiments, the projection  108  can have any size or configuration. 
     Support  310  includes a first end  312  and an opposite, second end  316 . In the orientation illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the first end  312  can be referred to as an upper end and the second end  316  can be referred to as a lower end. The support  310  includes a coupling element or coupler  314  proximate the first end  312 . The support  310  also includes a coupling element or coupler  318  proximate the second end  316 . End  316  of the support  310  is configured to be inserted into the opening  112  in the projection  108 . When end  316  is inserted into the projection  108 , the support  310  is supported on the base  100 . 
     The target assembly  300  includes several targets or target areas coupled to the support  310 . In particular, target areas  350 ,  370 ,  390 , and  410  are coupled to the support  310 . As described below, support  310  and target areas  350 ,  370 ,  390 , and  410  move and each can be referred to as a movable member or element. 
     Target area  350  includes a body portion  352  that extends from a proximal or mounting end  354  to a distal end  356 . A perimeter member  358  extends between ends  354  and  356  and on both sides of the body portion  352 . Several ribs or bars  360  extend between the body portion  352  and the perimeter member  358  and define openings  362  therebetween. Similarly, target areas  370 ,  390 , and  410  respectively include body portions  372 ,  392 , and  412  with ends  374 ,  376 ,  394 ,  396 ,  414 , and  416 , perimeter members  378 ,  398 , and  418 , bars  380 ,  400 , and  420 , that define openings  382 ,  402 , and  422 . Each of the target areas  350 ,  370 ,  390 , and  410  is coupled to the support  310  proximate its respective mounting end  354 ,  374 ,  394 , and  414 . 
     The target assembly  300  includes a target area  430  disposed proximate to end  312  of the support  310 . The coupling element  314  of the support  310  is configured to cooperate with a portion of the target area  430  to couple the target area  430  to the support  310 . The target area  430  includes a solid center portion  432  with a surrounding body portion  434  that includes several ribs  435  that define openings  436  therebetween. Referring to  FIG. 19 , a bottom view of an embodiment of the target area  430  is illustrated. Target area  430  includes a wall  438  that defines a receptacle  439 . The wall  438  is configured to be inserted in the receptacles located at the upper ends of the support portions  500  and  530  when they are coupled together. 
     The target areas  350 ,  370 ,  390 ,  410 , and  430  are formed of plastic and other than target area  430  are substantially the same size and configuration. In alternative embodiments, the target areas may be of any material other than plastic that provides sufficient strength and support to be a target. Moreover, the target areas can have different sizes and/or configurations. 
     In this embodiment, the target assembly  300  also includes several couplers that are used to mount or couple the target areas  350 ,  370 ,  390 , and  410  to the support  310 . The couplers allow the target areas to move relative to the support. Each of the couplers is coupled at one end to a target area and is movably coupled to the support  310 . As each coupler moves relative to the support  310 , the target area connected to the coupler also moves. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , target area  350  is mounted to coupler  440 , target area  370  is mounted to coupler  460 , target area  390  is mounted to coupler  470 , and target area  410  is mounted to coupler  480 . The couplers will be discussed in greater detail below. 
     Referring to  FIG. 3 , the different configurations in which the target assembly  300  can be disposed are illustrated. A rest or non-operating configuration  302  of the target assembly  300  is illustrated in solid lines. A deployed or operating configuration  304  of the target assembly  300  is illustrated in dashed lines. The target areas  350 ,  370 ,  390 , and  410  can extend in directions that are substantially perpendicular to the support  310 . In other embodiments, the directions in which those components extend can vary. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the support  310  and the target areas  350 ,  370 ,  390 ,  410 , and  430  are in different positions depending on the configuration of the target assembly  300 . The target assembly  300  and in particular, the support  310 , is moved from its position in its first configuration  302  along the direction of arrow “A” to a position in its second configuration  304 . Such movement of the support  310  moves the support  310  toward the base  100  in a substantially linear manner. In this embodiment, the support  310  has a longitudinal axis  311 . During operation of the game, the support  310  rotates about its longitudinal axis  311  along the direction of arrow “B.” In another embodiment, the support may rotate about an axis offset from its longitudinal axis. 
     During operation of the game, the support  310  moves from its position in its second configuration  304  along the direction of arrow “C” to its position in its first configuration  302 . In that direction, the support  310  and the components coupled to it move away from the base  100 . 
     When the support  310  and target assembly  300  is in the first configuration  302 , target areas  350 ,  370 ,  390 ,  410 , and  430  are in their respective first positions  366 ,  386 ,  406 ,  426 , and  431 . As the support  310  moves along the direction of arrow “A,” target area  350  moves along the direction of arrow “D” from its first position  366  to its second position  368 . Similarly, target area  370  moves along the direction of arrow “E” from its first position  386  to its second position  388 , target area  390  moves along the direction of arrow “F” from its first position  406  to its second position  408 , target area  410  moves along the direction of arrow “G” from its first position  426  to its second position  428 , and target area  430  moves along the direction of arrow “H” from its first position  431  to its second position  433 . When the support  310  moves upwardly along the direction of arrow “C,” each of the target areas  350 ,  370 ,  390 ,  410 , and  430  moves away from the base  100  from its respective second position to its respective first position. In this embodiment, each of the target areas  350 ,  370 ,  390 ,  410 , and  430  moves substantially simultaneously with the movement of the support  310 . The movements of these components is described in greater detail below. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 4-6 , some of the components of the support that cause relative movement of some of the components of the game are illustrated. In this embodiment, the support  310  includes two support portions  500  and  530  that can be coupled together. Support portions  500  and  530  are curved along their lengths and when coupled together, they form a channel  311  therebetween that extends through the support  310  (see  FIG. 2 ). 
     Support portion  500  is an elongate member that has ends  502  and  504 . The support portion  500  includes multiple mounting elements at which target areas can be coupled. In  FIG. 4 , support portion  500  is illustrated as having mounting elements  508  and  510 . While only two mounting elements  508  and  510  are illustrated, the support portion may include any number of mounting elements. Mounting elements  508  and  510  are extensions that extend outwardly from the outer surface  516  of the support portion  500 . In this embodiment, the mounting elements resemble bottom portions of three branches. The mounting elements  508  and  510  include holes  512  and  514 , respectively, through which a connector, such as connector  570 , can be inserted. 
     Support portion  530  is also an elongate member that has ends  532  and  534 . Support portion  530  includes several mounting holes  558  located around the support portion  530  through which a connector, such as a screw, can be inserted to couple support portions  500  and  530  together. 
     Located proximate to end  532  is a wall  536  that forms a receptacle  538 . The wall  536  and receptacle  538  collectively form a coupling element that is configured to receive a corresponding coupling element or portion of target area  430  so that target area  430  is coupled to support  310 . Support portion  530  includes mounting elements  540  and  542  that have holes  544  and  546 , respectively. A connector, such as connector  572 , can be inserted through hole  546  as illustrated. When housing portions are aligned together, connector  570  can be inserted through holes  512  and  544 . Similarly, connector  572  can be inserted through holes  514  and  546 . 
     When support portions  500  and  530  are coupled together, mounting elements  508  and  540  are disposed proximate to each other and form a region or space therebetween that can be referred to as a mounting area  548 . Similarly, mounting elements  510  and  542  are disposed proximate to each other and form another region therebetween that can be referred to as a mounting area  550 . In particular, referring to  FIG. 4 , the mounting area  550  is defined by mounting elements  510  and  542  and by ends  552  and  554  of the side wall of support portion  530 . Similarly, the mounting area  548  is defined by mounting elements  508  and  540  and by ends  553  and  555  of the side wall of support portion  530 . The function of the mounting areas  548  and  550  is illustrated in  FIG. 5  and described below. Support portion  530  includes an opening  560  formed along its lower end or surface. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , support  310  is illustrated with support portion  500  removed, thereby illustrating some of the internal components of the support  310 . As shown, support portion  530  includes mounting elements  540  and  542  as described with respect to  FIG. 4 . A coupler  440  is mounted proximate to mounting element  542  in mounting area  550 . Similarly, a coupler  480  is mounted proximate to mounting element  540  in mounting area  548 . 
     In this embodiment, coupler  440  includes a body  442  with an engaging end  444  having an engaging portion  446  and a coupling end  448  opposite the engaging end  444 . The body  442  includes a hole through which connector  572  can be inserted. Once the connector  572  is inserted, the coupler  440  can pivot about the connector  572 . Movement of the coupler  440  about the connector  572  can be limited by the ends  552  and  554  of the side wall of the support portion  530  (see  FIG. 4 ). Similarly, coupler  480  includes a body  482  with an engaging end  484  having an engaging portion  486  and a coupling end  488  opposite the engaging end  484 . The body  482  includes a hole through which connector  570  can be inserted. Once the connector  570  is inserted, the coupler  480  can pivot about the connector  570 . Movement of the coupler  480  about the connector  570  can be limited by the ends  553  and  555  of the side wall of the support portion  500 . A biasing mechanism such as a spring can be mounted on the connectors  570  and  572  to bias the couplers  440  and  480  in the desired direction, whether upwardly or downwardly. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , a target area  350  is illustrated as being coupled to coupler  440 . As the support  310 , including support portion  530 , moves along the direction of arrow “I,” the coupler  440  and target area  350  move along the direction of arrow “K” as described below. As the support  310  moves along the direction of arrow “J,” the coupler  440  and target area  350  move along the direction of arrow “L.” 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 5 , the support  310  includes a slide member  600 , an elongate member  650 , and a locking lever  680 . Referring to  FIGS. 5 and 6 , the slide member  600  includes a body  602  with ends  604  and  606  and a surface  608 . The body  602  includes two slots  610  and  612  extending therethrough. Conventional connectors  630  and  632  can be inserted into slots  610  and  612 , respectively, and into mounting structures  562  and  564  formed on the inner surface  556  of support portion  530  (see  FIG. 4 ). The connectors  630  and  632  couple the slide member  600  to the support portion  530  for movement relative thereto. 
     Slide member or elongate member  600  also includes several abutments or projections  614 ,  616 , and  618  spaced apart on the body  602 . The slide member  600  may include one or more projections on the other side of the body  602 . The projections  614 ,  616 , and  618  are configured to extend outwardly from the body  602  and to engage one of the couplers  440 ,  460 ,  470 , and  480 . As illustrated in  FIG. 5 , projection  614  is configured to contact the engaging end  444  of coupler  440  as support portion  530  moves along the direction of arrow “I” and the slide member  600  moves along the direction of arrow “J.” Similarly, projection  616  is configured to contact the engaging end  484  of coupler  480  as support portion  530  moves along the direction of arrow “I” and the slide member  600  moves along the direction of arrow “J.” Projection  618  is configured to engage another coupler (not shown) in a similar manner. The movements of the various components are discussed in greater detail below. 
     Elongate member  650  includes a body  652  with opposite ends  654  and  656 . The body  652  includes an extension  658  that extends outwardly from one side. Proximate to end  656  an engaging portion  660  that includes a pair of plates  662  and  664  that have lower ends  666  and  668 . End  656  of the elongate member  650  engages an upper connector  700  that is mounted at the lower end  534  of support portion  530 . 
     The support  310  also includes a lever  680  that is pivotally mounted to an inner surface of support portion  530 . Lever  680  includes a body  682  with opposite ends  684  and  686  and a mounting hole  690 . A connector  694  can be inserted into the mounting hole  690  to couple the lever  680  to the support portion  530 . The body  682  may also include a protrusion  692  that extends from a surface. A biasing mechanism  640 , such as a spring, may be provided between the lever  680  and an inner surface of the support portion  530  to bias the lever  680  in a particular direction. The lever  680  is used to lock the slide member  600  in its upper position when the support  310  is moved along the direction of arrow “I.” 
     When the support  310  and support portion  530  is moved along the direction of arrow “I,” the lower end  606  of the slide member  600  contacts the upper end  654  of elongate member  650 . As the support portion  530  continues to move in that direction, the slide member  600  moves along the direction of arrow “J” relative to the support portion  530 . The movement of the slide member  600  in that direction is limited by the length of the slots  610  and  612 . As the slide member  600  moves along the direction of arrow “J,” projection  614  contacts engaging portion  446  of coupler  440  and causes coupler  440  and target area  350  to pivot about connector  572  along the direction of arrow “K.” At the same time, projection  616  contacts engaging portion  486  of coupler  480  and causes coupler  480  to pivot about connector  570  along the direction of arrow “N.” Accordingly, the target areas connected to couplers  440  and  480  move from their respective first positions to their respective second positions, as previously described. As previously mentioned, the lever  680  is used to lock and retain the slide member  600  in its upper position. Additional couplers and projections on the slide member can be used to cause movement of additional target areas relative to the support. 
     During operation of a game, the support  310  rotates or spins about its longitudinal axis. After a certain period of time has elapsed, the support  310  and support portion  530  are moved along the direction of arrow “J.” These movements will be described in greater detail below. As the support portion  530  moves along the direction of arrow “J,” the elongate member  650  releases the lever  680  which in turn disengages from and releases the slide member  600  from its upper position. Free to move, the slide member  600  moves along the direction of arrow “I” relative to the support portion  530  and the couplers  440  and  480 . As a result, the projections  614  and  616  disengage from couplers  440  and  480 , respectively. 
     A spring is mounted on each of the connectors  570  and  572 . When coupler  440  disengages from projection  614 , coupler  440  and target area  350  pivot about connector  572  along the direction of arrow “L” to their upper positions. The spring mounted on connector  572  causes the coupler  440  to rotate in that particular direction. Similarly, when coupler  480  disengages from projection  616 , coupler  480  and its associated target area pivot about connector  570  along the direction of arrow “M” to their upper positions. The spring mounted on connector  570  causes the coupler  480  to rotate in that particular direction. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6 , the support portions  500  and  530  are illustrated. In this embodiment, features with similar structures and functionality to features already described have the same reference numbers. A different embodiment of a slide member  600  is illustrated. In this implementation, slide member  600  includes projections  640  and  642  that are disposed on opposite side of the slide member  600 . As slide member moves along the direction of arrow “O,” the projections  640  and  642  contact the engaging portions of different couplers to move the couplers and the target areas as previously described. 
     Also illustrated in  FIG. 6  is another coupler  460  which is mounted on connector  462  for pivoting or rotating movement about the connector  462 . A spring  495  is mounted on the connector  462  and is configured to bias the coupler  460  in a desired direction. An opening  493  is formed in support portion  500 . Support portion  500  includes a wall  506  defining a receptacle  507 . Collectively, the wall  506  and the receptacle  507  define a coupling element. 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , an embodiment of a coupler according to the invention is illustrated. In this embodiment, coupler  440  includes a body  442 , an engaging end  444  with an engaging portion  446  and a mounting end  448 . The body  442  includes a hole  450  and proximate to end  448  there is an opening  452  in communication with an internal cavity  454 . The cavity  454  is configured to receive a portion of a target area as illustrated in  FIG. 5 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 8-10 , some of the components of an embodiment of a drive mechanism of the game are illustrated. Referring to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , the lower portion  106  of the base  100  is illustrated with the upper portion  104  of the base  100  removed. The base  100  includes a compartment  116  that can receive a power source such as batteries. The base  100  also includes a receptacle  118  for an audible output device, such as a speaker, with several holes  120  formed through the lower surface of the base  100 . 
     The game  10  includes a drive mechanism  130  that imparts movement to the target assembly  300  so that components of the target assembly  300  move relative to the base  100 . The drive mechanism  130  includes a drive housing  132 . Referring to  FIG. 10 , the internal components of the drive mechanism  130  are illustrated. As shown, the drive housing  132  includes two portions  134  and  136  that can be coupled together with several couplers  138  and  140  located on each portion. Housing portion  134  includes several mounting structures  142  to facilitate the mounting of the drive housing  132  on the base  100 . 
     The drive mechanism  130  includes a motor  144  that has a drive shaft  146 . Mounted on the drive shaft  146  is a worm gear  148  that has a thread  149  along its length. Engaged with the worm gear  148  is a gear  150  with teeth  152  that engage the thread  149 . Gear  150  is rotatably mounted on axle  154  which is supported at one end in a support  141  formed in housing portion  134 . Gear  150  includes a pinion (not shown) that rotates with the gear  150 . Proximate to gear  150  is a gear  160  with teeth  162  that engage the teeth of the pinion of gear  150 . Gear  160  is rotatably mounted on axle  164  and includes a pinion  166  with teeth  168 . Axle  164  is supported at one end in support  143  formed in housing portion  134 . Proximate to gear  160  is a gear  170  with teeth  172  that engage the teeth  168  of pinion  166 . Gear  170  is rotatably mounted on axle  174  and includes a pinion  176  with teeth  178 . 
     Coupled to housing portion  134  is gear  180  that has teeth  182  that engage teeth  178  of pinion  176 . Gear  180  includes a pinion  184  with teeth  186 . Also coupled to housing portion  134  is gear  190  that has teeth  192  and that is mounted on axle  194 . The teeth  192  of gear  190  engage the teeth  186  of pinion  184 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 8 ,  9 , and  15 , gear  180  includes an output shaft  188  on an opposite side from pinion  184 . The output shaft extends out of the drive housing  132 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 8 , the drive mechanism  130  includes a disk  200  disposed proximate to the drive housing  132 . The disk  200  is mounted on axle  194  and rotates with gear  190 . Referring to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , an embodiment of a disk is illustrated. Disk  200  includes a body  202  with a perimeter  204  along which a protrusion or tag  206  is located. The body  202  includes a centrally located shaft  208  with an opening  210  therethrough that is configured to receive axle  194 . 
     When power is supplied to the motor  144 , the drive shaft  146  rotates and motion is imparted to gears  150 ,  160 ,  170 ,  180 , and  190 . At the same time, the output shaft  188  rotates and the disk  200  rotates. When the power is turned off or otherwise disconnected, the drive shaft  146  and the gears stop rotating. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , the drive mechanism  130  includes a latch  220  that is movably mounted on the drive housing  132 . The latch  220  is mounted for lateral movement along the directions of arrows “P” and “Q.” A biasing mechanism  240 , such as a spring, applies a force on latch  220  to move along the direction of arrow “Q.” The disk  200  is mounted proximate to the latch  220  so that only the protrusion  206  contacts the latch  220  as the disk  200  rotates. The protrusion  206  contacts the latch  220  with sufficient force to cause the latch  220  to move along the direction of arrow “P.” The period of rotation of the disk  200  can vary depending on the speed at which the motor is driven. In one embodiment, the disk  200  makes one revolution in approximately 45 seconds. In that example, the protrusion  206  engages a portion of the latch  220  approximately 45 seconds after the disk  200  starts to rotate. The base  100  includes a support  250  having a wall  252  defining a receptacle  254  in which spring  240  is disposed. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 11 and 12 , an embodiment of a latch according to the invention is illustrated. In this embodiment, latch  220  includes a body  222  with a post  228  extending therefrom that is configured to receive spring  240 . The body  222  also includes slots  230  and  232  through which connectors  242  and  244 , such as screws, can be inserted. The range of motion of the latch  220  is determined by the length of the slots  230  and  232 . The latch  220  also includes an extension  234  with a lip  236 . The extension  234  extends outwardly and upwardly from the body  222 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 15 , some of the components of the game are illustrated. In this embodiment, the game includes an upper coupler  700  that is coupleable to the lower end of the support  310 . A lower coupler  800  is configured to receive the upper coupler  700 . The lower coupler  800  is mounted in the base  100  and in particular, in communication with opening  112  in the projection  108  of the base  100 . The lower coupler  800  is mounted on the output shaft  188  of gear  180  so that as gear  180  rotates, lower coupler  800  rotates and the upper coupler  700  and support  310  also rotate. A spring  260  is disposed between gear  180  and the lower coupler  800  to bias the lower coupler  800  along the direction of arrow “R.” 
     In this embodiment, the upper coupler  700  has a body  702  with an upper end  704  and a lower end  706 . A ridge  708  is formed on the body  702  proximate to upper end  704  and is configured to be captured between the support portions  500  and  530 . The body  702  includes several plate-like portions  710 ,  712 ,  714 , and  716  that are defined by slits  718 . The plate-like portions  710 ,  712 ,  714 , and  716  include tabs  720 ,  722 ,  724 , and  726 , respectively, that are used to connect the upper coupler  700  to the lower coupler  800 . The body is formed with a substantially circular configuration and an opening  730  that extends through the body  702  (see  FIG. 16 ). 
     In this embodiment, the lower coupler  800  has a body  802  with an upper end  804  and a lower end  806 . The body  802  includes an internal cavity that is configured to receive the plate-like portions  710 ,  712 ,  714 , and  716  and the tabs  720 ,  722 ,  724 , and  726  of the upper coupler  700 . The upper coupler  700  can be snapped into the lower coupler  800 . Proximate to its lower end  806 , the lower coupler  800  includes a ridge or rim  808  that defines an annular groove or opening  820 . An extension  810  extends from end  806  of the lower coupler  800 . As illustrated in  FIG. 17 , the extension  810  includes an opening or channel  812  that is configured to receive the output shaft  188  of gear  180 . The cross-section of opening  812  is configured to mate with the cross-section of shaft  188  so that the lower coupler  800  rotates with gear  180 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 15 , an exemplary interaction between the latch  220  and the lower coupler  800  is illustrated. When the target assembly  300  is pressed downwardly, the lower coupler  800  is moved downwardly sufficiently so that extension  234  engages the annular groove  820 . When lower coupler  800  is in this position, a switch is closed and power is supplied to motor  134 , thereby activating the drive mechanism  130 . 
     As previously discussed, spring  240  biases the latch  220  along the direction of arrow “S.” When the latch  220  extends in that direction, extension  234  engages groove  820  of the lower coupler  800  and prevents lower coupler  800  from moving along the direction of arrow “R.” When the drive mechanism  130  operates, gear  180  rotates and causes lower coupler  800  and upper coupler  700  to rotate as well. When the disk  200  rotates so its protrusion  206  engages a portion of the latch  220 , the latch  220  moves along the direction of arrow “T” and extension  234  disengages from groove  820 . At this point, the spring  260  biases the lower coupler  800  upwardly and the lower coupler  800  moves along the direction of arrow “R.” The extent of movement of the lower coupler  800  is limited by the space within the base  100  in which the lower coupler  800  is located. At the same time, the switch is disengaged and the motor is turned off. As a result, the upper coupler  700  and the lower coupler  800  stop rotating. As the couplers  700  and  800  move upwardly along the direction of arrow “R,” the support  310  and the remainder of the target assembly  300  move along a direction away from the base  100  as previously described. 
     Referring to  FIG. 18 , the connection of the upper coupler  700  to the lower coupler  800  located within the base  100  is illustrated. The plate-like structures and tabs of the upper coupler  700  engage the lower coupler  800  that is located in the base  100 . The output shaft  188  is illustrated as extending into the interior of the lower coupler  800 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 20 , an exemplary embodiment of a launcher or launching mechanism  900  is illustrated. In this embodiment, the launching mechanism  900  includes a base  902  with an opening  904  and a stop  906  located proximate to the opening  904 . A launching portion  908  with a body  910  and a support  912  is coupled to the base  902  via an engaging end  914  that is inserted into the opening  904 . A biasing member  916 , such as a spring, is disposed between the base  902  and the launching portion  908  to bias the launching portion  908  upwardly. In an alternative embodiment, the launching mechanism can have any type of configuration provided that it can be actuated by a user to launch an object. 
     Additional embodiments of components of games according to the present invention are described below. In the different embodiments, various game components and features can be used and combined with components and features of other embodiments. 
     Now an exemplary method of playing a game using the game  10  described above is briefly discussed. In this implementation, the launchers are formed in the configuration of a lily pad and the objects are formed in the configuration of a frog. When the game is turned on and at various points during game play, audible output, such as frog sounds, is generated by the electronic components of the device. In one example, the object of the game is to be the player who gets the most frogs in the target, which in one case resembles a tree, after several rounds of play. The goal is to launch as many objects onto the target before the target pops up because some of the objects will fall off of the target. 
     One of the players presses on the top of the tree or target assembly  300  and pushes downwardly. That motion closes the switch and activates the drive mechanism  130 , thereby causing the target assembly  300  to rotate and in some instances, audible outputs to be generated as well. As the target assembly  300  moves downwardly, the tree branches or target areas also move downwardly. In an alternative embodiment, a suction cup and spring assembly can be used to control the length of play in lieu of the drive mechanism with the upper and lower couplers and latch as discussed above. After a certain period of time, the target assembly pops up and the round is over. An object can be retained on a target or target area in a variety of ways. Some examples include: the object can rest on the target area, a portion of the object can extend into one or more openings of a target area, and a portion of the object can hook or grab onto a portion of a target area. 
       FIG. 21  shows a target  1010  in the form of a palm tree-like structure with a base  1012 , a shaft  1014 , and a plurality of target areas  1016  in the general shape of palm tree leaves. A plurality of projectile objects  1018 , preferably in the form of monkeys have long, hooked arms extending from a body, are shot at or hung on the palm tree leaves. The arms and/or tails of the monkeys may include small cuffs at the ends. A launcher  1020  may be used to shoot the monkeys at the palm tree leaves, or the monkeys may simply be thrown at the leaves. 
     Base  1012  is shown at the bottom of target  1010 . Base  1012  may serve as a support structure for the remaining elements of the target  1010  and may be manufactured using plastic and may be generally cylindrical in shape. 
     Shaft  1014  is shown as an elongate cylinder extending vertically from base  1012 . Shaft  1014  provides both the necessary support and height for target areas  1016  and may be formed of plastic or other material rigid enough to support the remaining elements. Further, shaft  1014  may be formed in the shape of, or otherwise resemble a tree trunk when, as in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 21 , target  1010  is implemented as a tree-like structure. 
     Target areas  1016  are disposed at the top of shaft  1014 . Target areas  1016  define a plurality of apertures which provide an area for a user to shoot, toss, fling, launch or otherwise project objects which may be caught or snagged in the apertures. In the embodiment of  FIG. 21 , target areas  1016  are formed of plastic and are shaped like palm leaves. 
     Turning to  FIG. 22 , base  1012  and shaft  1014  of target  1010  shown in  FIG. 21  are shown without target areas  1016  attached. In this embodiment, a spring  1022  is disposed at the top of shaft  1014 . When target areas  1016  are attached to shaft  1014 , spring  1022  provides a mechanism which allows target areas  1016  to rock or bounce when contact is made with them. 
       FIG. 23  shows a bottom view of base  1012 . As shown, electrical and mechanical structures housed in base include a plurality of batteries, an electric motor, a gear train, and an eccentric weight  1024 . Turning on the motor spins eccentric weight  1024 , causing base  1012  to vibrate or shake. As a result, the remaining elements of the target  1010  are also placed in motion. The motion imparted on target  1010  may remain constant or may occur at timed or random intervals, driven by a mechanical or electronic timer selectively interconnecting the batteries to the electric motor. 
     A speaker may also be housed within base  1012 , connected to an electronic audio device containing one or more pre-selected noises, songs, or tunes. The electronic audio device may be always on, intermittently on in tandem with or opposite the vibrating motor, or on only when triggered by certain events or devices, such as motion sensors or switches. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 24-26 , another embodiment of a target  1010  having a base  1012 , a shaft  1014 , and target areas  1016  is shown. In this embodiment, base  1012  is shaped as an inverted hemisphere, and a weight, not shown, is fixed near the bottom pole of the hemisphere causing it to be inherently stable. The weight in the base also increases the moment of inertia of the base, causing the target  1010  to remain in motion for longer periods of time when a user spins, rocks, sways, or otherwise forces the target  1010  into motion. Additionally, whenever target  1010  is struck by launched objects, the structure may cause it to sway or otherwise move due to the force of the contact. 
     Although in the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 24-26  is hemispherical, the base  1012  may still serve as housing for electrical or mechanical components as shown in  FIG. 23  above. Similar to the embodiments discussed above, electrical and mechanical components may provide for vibrating, spinning, or shaking similar to the embodiment discussed above. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 27-28 , another embodiment of a target  1010  having a base  1012  with a hollow interior  1026 , a shaft  1014 , a suction device  1028 , a biasing mechanism  1032  contained wholly or partially within the shaft  1014 , an underlying surface  1030 , and target areas  1016  is shown. In this embodiment, base  1012  is shaped as a hemisphere with a hollow interior  1026 , and a suction device  1028  is fixed along the center axis of the hemisphere and contained within the hollow interior  1026 . The suction device  1028  is capable of being affixed to the underlying surface  1030 , and will remain affixed to the underlying surface  1030  for a amount of time related to various parameters, including (1) the strength and shape of the suction device  1028 , (2) the strength of a spring or biasing mechanism  1032  contained wholly or partially in the shaft  1014 , and (3) the texture of the underlying surface  1030  to which the suction device  1028  is attached. 
     In one possible embodiment, the shaft  1014  could be provided with a biasing mechanism  1032  as shown by the dotted line structure in  FIG. 28 . The biasing mechanism  1032  could be a spring attached at one end to the suction device  1028  and at the other end to a structure higher in the shaft. When the suction device  1028  is disengaged from the underlying surface  1030 , the biasing mechanism exerts relatively little force. However, when the suction device  1028  is affixed to the underlying surface  1030 , the biasing mechanism  1032  stretches. The stretching of the biasing mechanism builds potential energy and therefore provides a relatively strong force, in the direction of the force arrows in  FIG. 28 , in opposition to the suction device&#39;s  1028  hold on the underlying surface  1030 . Upon release of the suction device  1028  from the underlying surface  1030 , the stored potential energy in the biasing mechanism changes to kinetic energy, and the biasing mechanism abruptly moves the suction device  1028  up away from the underlying surface in the direction of the force arrows. When the suction device  1028  reaches its apex, the remaining kinetic energy is transferred into the shaft  1014 , thereby abruptly moving the target  1010  and target areas  1016 . Such abrupt movement could potentially dislodge some of the projectile objects  1018  from the target areas  1016 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 29-31 , there is shown another embodiment of a target  1010 . In this embodiment, base  1012  is shaped as an irregular, weighted mass. Base  1012  is formed of colored plastic and provides support for the remaining elements of the target  1010 . The base  1012  in this embodiment does not contain any electrical or mechanical mechanisms, but in alternative embodiments may be conformed to do so. 
     Shaft  1014  is formed as an elongated rod extending from base  1012 , and is flexible such that when target  1010  is struck by launched projectiles  1018 , both shaft  1014  and target areas  1016  may sway or otherwise move. Shaft  1014  may be formed of a material which provides support for target areas  1016 , but also is flexible such that it sways or rocks when force is applied against it, thereby providing swaying or rocking motion to target areas  1016 . The palm tree leaf target areas  1016  are shown defining an alternative pattern of apertures. 
     Target areas  1016  may also be removably attached to shaft  1014  as is shown in  FIG. 30 . Target areas  1016  here is attached to shaft  1014  by disposing a suction device  1034  at the apex of shaft  1014  and providing an area suitable for suction  1036  on the underside of the target areas  1016 . Such an embodiment provides another connection between target areas  1016  and shaft  1014  such that target areas  1016  may bounce, shake, or sway when contact is made with target  1010 . 
       FIGS. 21 ,  24 - 26 , and  29 - 31  all show a plurality of projectiles  1018  having hook-like arms projecting from a body. Projectiles  1018  are formed of colored plastic and generally resemble monkeys. The arm structures on the projectiles  1018  may be of any general shape suitable to hook or latch onto an aperture. The arm structures may also include cuffs on the ends. 
       FIG. 32  shows an alternative embodiment of a projectile  1018  in the form of a banana. The banana projectiles  1018  are not designed to catch or snag on the tree. Rather, they are designed to hit other projectiles  1018  hanging on target areas  1016  to cause them fall off. 
     A launcher  1020  is shown in  FIGS. 33-34 . Launcher  1020  may have a base and a spring-loaded launching board. As shown in  FIG. 34 , to operate launcher  1020 , force may be applied to launching board in a direction which compresses a spring, and when the force is released any object resting on launching board propelled from the apparatus. Launcher  1020  may be formed of plastic or other rigid material. 
     Target  1010 , projectiles  1018 , and launcher  1020  may be used in conjunction with one another to play games. Generally, the game requires a player to launch projectiles  1018  from a launcher  1020  at a target  1010  and specifically target areas  1016 . Depending upon the goal of the particular game being played, player attempts to either snag or catch projectiles  1018  on target areas  1016  or knock off objects that are hanging from target areas  1016 . The following is a non-exhaustive list of methods of using the above-described in games. 
     In each of the following examples, the target  1010  is in the form of a coconut palm tree; projectiles  1018  are in the form of monkeys having lengthy, hooked appendages extending from a body; and launching device  1020  resembles a pair of banana leaves. Additionally, when a second set of projectiles  1018  are implemented, they are in the shape of small bananas. 
     EXAMPLE ONE 
     Before the game begins the following must be completed: (1) set the coconut palm tree in the middle of the table; (2) divide the monkeys by color into even numbered piles; (3) each player takes a launcher  1020  and one pile of monkeys; and then (4) turn on the tree. 
     Gameplay then proceeds as follows: (1) all players begin launching their color of monkeys into the tree; (2) when the players have launched all of their monkeys, the game is over. The winner is the player with the most monkeys of his/her color in the tree after all players have finished shooting. 
     Throughout the game the coconut palm tree suddenly vibrates and makes monkey sounds while players try to launch their color of monkeys into the tree. Players will never know when the tree is going to try and shake their projectiles  1018  out of the target  1010 . The game set comes with a plurality of different colors of projectiles  1018  and launching devices. 
     EXAMPLE TWO 
     Before the game begins the following must be completed: (1) set the coconut palm tree in the middle of the table; (2) divide the monkeys by color into even numbered piles; (3) each player takes a launcher  1020  and one pile of monkeys; (4) one player turns on the sounds; and (5) one player reaches in to start the tree spinning. 
     Once the game is ready, gameplay proceeds as follows: (1) all players begin launching their color of monkeys into the tree; (2) when the tree stops spinning, players count the number of their color of monkeys in the tree. The player with the most monkeys of his/her color wins the round. 
     The coconut palm tree has a hemispherical base  1012  and can spin. Throughout the game that tree sways and makes monkey sounds while players try to launch their color of monkeys into the tree. 
     EXAMPLE THREE 
     Before the game begins the following must be completed: (1) set the coconut palm tree in the middle of the table; (2) divide the monkeys by color into even numbered piles; (3) divide the bananas equally among the players; and (4) each player takes a launcher  1020 , one pile of monkeys, and one pile of bananas. 
     Once the game is ready, gameplay proceeds as follows: (1) each player hangs their monkeys in the tree; (2) all players start launching bananas at their opponents&#39; monkeys in the tree; and (3) the last player with a monkey in the tree wins. 
     In this implementation of the game, the coconut palm tree has a tree top that functions like the balancing top. When bananas land on the top if the tree they may stay on top. Additionally, the tree “trunk” is somewhat flimsy and sways or rocks side to side when hit with bananas, making some monkeys fall off the tree. 
     Another example of gameplay could include determining the winner via a point scale. Each leaf of the palm tree (or equivalent thereof in different embodiments) could be given a separate point value. At the completion of the game each player would add their point value to determine the winner. 
     A variation of any of the above examples could include a delay mechanism, such as that provided by the suction cup device in the embodiments pictured in  FIGS. 27-28 . For example, instead of waiting for all players to run out of monkeys to launch, the suction device could be affixed to the underlying surface immediately before play commences, and the game or round would end as soon as the suction device dislodges from the underlying surface. The player with the most monkeys on the tree at this point would win. Additionally, the delay mechanism could operate to shake or suddenly move the target upon dislodging from the underlying surface. This could be done using, among other things, a suction device and biasing mechanism wherein the biasing mechanism will abruptly jerk the tree upon release of the suction device from the underlying surface. The jerking or shaking of the tree would further operate to dislodge some of the monkeys from the tree, adding an element of chance to the game. 
     These examples are given as a non-exhaustive list of different methods of playing games with the structure described. Distinct aspects and features of the above-described methods of playing the game may be combined to formulate a different method. 
     It is believed that the disclosure set forth above encompasses multiple distinct inventions with independent utility. While each of these inventions has been disclosed in a preferred form, the specific embodiments thereof as disclosed and illustrated herein are not to be considered in a limiting sense as numerous variations are possible. The subject matter of the inventions includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions and/or properties disclosed herein. Similarly, where any description recites “a” or “a first” element or the equivalent thereof, such disclosure should be understood to include incorporation of one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements. 
     While the invention has been described in detail and with references to specific embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. For example, the majority of the elements can be formed of molded plastic. However, in alternative embodiments, the elements can be formed of a material other than plastic provided that the material has sufficient strength for the component&#39;s intended function.