US20140021681A1 - Dice structure with elevating legs disposed atop a playing surface - Google Patents
Dice structure with elevating legs disposed atop a playing surface Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20140021681A1 US20140021681A1 US13/552,465 US201213552465A US2014021681A1 US 20140021681 A1 US20140021681 A1 US 20140021681A1 US 201213552465 A US201213552465 A US 201213552465A US 2014021681 A1 US2014021681 A1 US 2014021681A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- rigid receptacle
- legs
- leg
- dice
- receptacle
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- A63F9/00—Games not otherwise provided for
- A63F9/04—Dice; Dice-boxes; Mechanical dice-throwing devices
- A63F9/0402—Rolling boards
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- A63F2250/00—Miscellaneous game characteristics
- A63F2250/16—Use of textiles
Definitions
- the disclosure relates to the field of amusement devices having a playing surface and dice and more particularly to techniques for managing dice using a dice structure with elevating leg members.
- FIG. 1 is a front elevation of a dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments.
- FIG. 2 is a front elevation showing a removable lid atop a dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments.
- FIG. 3A is a top view of a hexagonal dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments.
- FIG. 3B is a side view of a hexagonal dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments.
- FIG. 4A is a top view of a hexagonal inner barrier-type dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments.
- FIG. 4B is a side view of a hexagonal inner barrier-type dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments.
- FIG. 5A is a side view of a curvilinear dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments.
- FIG. 5B is a top view of a curvilinear dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments.
- FIG. 5C is a top view of an oblong dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments.
- FIG. 6 presents an array of cross sections of legs having ornamental designs for use with a dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments.
- FIG. 7A is a side view of a leg with a flange, according to some embodiments.
- FIG. 7B is a top view of a leg with a flange, according to some embodiments.
- FIG. 8 is a front elevation of a dice structure with buttressed elevating leg members, according to some embodiments.
- FIG. 9A is a cross section of a dice structure with an inner lining, according to some embodiments.
- FIG. 9B is a cross section of a dice structure with a recessed inner lining, according to some embodiments.
- Leg or “legs” refers to a structural member serving to elevate the dice structure above a surface.
- Die or “dice” refers to a three dimensional shape having at least three faces, having at least two symbols impressed thereupon.
- the symbols can comprise numerals, or counting divots, or any other symbols at least two of which are visibly distinguishable one from another.
- compositions of matter referred to in the present disclosure comprise various materials.
- any rigid or semi-rigid structure may take on various shapes, and the following exemplary materials may be used without limitation unless as may be specified in the claims: acrylic, polycarbonate, paper, cardboard, plastic, wood, metal, laminates, glass, ceramics, clay, paper-mache, curable plastic, epoxies and resins, etc.
- One approach is to provide a dice structure with legs to elevate the dice structure above the playing surface such that the dice structure is to receive the “throw” and contain the die or dice to the volume of the dice structure, thus minimizing the risk that a throw will disturb the tokens or other play elements atop the playing surface.
- Applicable structures are disclosed herein.
- FIG. 1 is a front elevation 100 of a dice structure with elevating leg members.
- the present front elevation 100 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein.
- the front elevation 100 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment.
- Shown is an assembly comprising a rigid receptacle (e.g., dice structure 102 ) sitting atop legs (e.g., leg 106 1 , leg 106 2 , etc.), which assembly in turn sits atop a playing surface 114 .
- a portion of the border 112 of the playing surface is depicted as dashed lines, and the dice structure apparatus is elevating by the leg members so that there is space below the dice structure for game pieces (e.g., game piece 108 1 , game piece 108 2 ).
- Game pieces can be of differing sizes (as shown) and yet there is space below the dice structure for game pieces to be placed on a portion of the playing surface in certain positions, in accordance with game play.
- the rigid receptacle serves to receive at least one die, and the walls of the rigid receptacle serve to contain the dice when thrown into the concavity of the rigid receptacle.
- the appearance of the rigid receptacle in terms of an ornamental design can be aesthetically considered as to conform to a theme, possibly a theme related to a particular game.
- the appearance of the rigid receptacle can be altered by varying the thickness of a sidewall 104 of the rigid receptacle.
- the rigid receptacle can be formed by sidewalls having a thickness of about 0.1875 inches to about 0.25 inches.
- the sidewalls can have a thickness that is thinner than about 0.1875, or a thickness that is thicker than about 0.25 inches.
- the rigid receptacle can be comprised of an acrylic material, or another material.
- the rigid receptacle has a mass of about 1 kg or another mass so that the effect of the throw does not move the dice structure.
- FIG. 2 is a front elevation 200 showing a removable lid 202 atop a dice structure with elevating leg members.
- the present front elevation 200 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein.
- the front elevation 200 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment.
- the rigid receptacle shown has three legs, however this is merely one example, and a rigid receptacle can be affixed to more (or fewer) than three legs (or other leg-like supporting structures).
- the legs can be variously sized so as to elevate the rigid receptacle to a desired height.
- the legs can have a height H 2 of about 28 mm, or for example, the legs can have a height H 2 of more than about 28 mm.
- the legs 106 are comprised of an acrylic material, and in some cases the legs are shaped so as to be detachable from the rigid receptacle.
- height of the legs is adjustable.
- a leg can be formed of two or more slidably-mated segments such that the height can be adjusted.
- a leg can be formed so as to mate (e.g., with an adhesive) to the soles of the legs (e.g., sole 216 1 , sole 216 2 , sole 216 3 , etc.).
- the soles of the legs comprise a fabric sole.
- a sidewall 104 can be tall or short, or decorated or undecorated.
- a sidewall serves to contain the dice when the height H 1 of the sidewall is at least 3.25 inches.
- the dice structure 102 can have substantially rounded edges. Aesthetically consistent with such rounded edges, the dice structure 102 can be substantially curvilinear in shape, or the dice structure 102 can be substantially formed of polygon shapes.
- FIG. 3A is a top view 300 of a hexagonal dice structure with elevating leg members.
- the present top view 300 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein.
- the top view 300 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment.
- the hexagonal dice structure with elevating leg members has a receptacle 302 for a leg member.
- a receptacle can be positioned at a vertex of the sidewall concavity (as shown).
- a sidewall can be thicker than the embodiment of FIG. 3A and the receptacle can be positioned between a sidewall inner wall 304 and a sidewall outer wall 306 .
- FIG. 3B is a side view 350 of a hexagonal dice structure with elevating leg members.
- the present side view 350 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein.
- the side view 350 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment.
- the aforementioned receptacle 302 for a leg member may be keyed so as to mate positively with a keyed leg 303 .
- the key can be formed so as to allow only one keyed leg or another (which may be differently-keyed) to mate positively into a particular receptacle 302 .
- Such embodiments include configurations with different length legs (e.g., one leg being shorter than another), thus, in such an assembly the dice structure may be positioned at an angle relative to the plane of a portion of the playing surface.
- FIG. 4A is a top view 400 of a hexagonal inner barrier-type dice structure with elevating leg members.
- the present top view 400 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein.
- the top view 400 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment.
- the inner barrier 404 forms an opening 402 , yet leaving a concavity within the rigid receptacle.
- the concavity within the rigid receptacle serves to receive at least one die, and the walls of inner barrier 404 , together with the sidewall of the rigid receptacle, serve to contain the dice when thrown into the concavity of the rigid receptacle.
- FIG. 4B is a side view 450 of a hexagonal inner barrier-type dice structure with elevating leg members.
- the present side view 450 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein.
- the side view 450 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment.
- the dice structure 102 can accept legs of various shapes, sizes, and functions. Shown in the embodiment of FIG. 4B are extensible legs (e.g., extensible leg 406 1 , extensible leg 406 2 ) with an additional leg extension 408 .
- FIG. 5A is a side view 5 A 00 of a curvilinear dice structure with elevating leg members.
- the present side view 5 A 00 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein.
- the side view 5 A 00 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment.
- FIG. 5B is a top view 5 B 00 of a curvilinear dice structure with elevating leg members.
- the present top view 5 B 00 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein.
- the top view 5 B 00 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment.
- the curvilinear dice structure may comprise a circular shape.
- FIG. 5C is a top view 5 C 00 of an oblong dice structure with elevating leg members.
- the present top view 5 C 00 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein.
- the top view 5 C 00 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment.
- the curvilinear dice structure may comprise an oblong shape.
- FIG. 6 presents an array of cross sections 600 of legs having ornamental designs for use with a dice structure with elevating leg members.
- the present cross sections 600 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein.
- the cross sections 600 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment.
- legs can be formed into any ornamental design or shape. Strictly as examples, legs can assume the shape of a square leg shape 602 , a triangular leg shape 604 , a pentagonal leg shape 606 , a hexagonal leg shape 608 , a heptagonal leg shape 610 , an octagonal leg shape 612 , a five-point star leg shape 614 , a six-point star leg shape 616 , a seven-point star leg shape 618 , etc. In fact legs can be formed into any shape, and can bear any ornamental design.
- FIG. 7A is a side view of a leg with a flange, according to some embodiments.
- Such embodiments exemplify a dice structure apparatus with multiple elevating leg members. It is possible to configure a dice structure apparatus with just one elevating leg member.
- Such embodiments can comprise a rigid receptacle to receive at least one die; and a single leg, the leg affixed to the rigid receptacle wherein the single leg serves to elevate the rigid receptacle above a substantially flat playing surface.
- a rigid receptacle supported by a single leg 106 will topple; yet, the single leg embodiments include a playing surface configured with a throughhole to accept the shape of the leg.
- the depth of penetration of the leg into the throughhole can be arranged by positioning an annular flange 702 about the single leg at a point between a first end of the single leg and a midpoint of the single leg.
- FIG. 7B is a top view of a leg with a flange, according to some embodiments.
- the depth of penetration of the leg into the throughhole can be arranged by positioning an annular flange about the single leg at a point between a first end of the single leg and a midpoint of the single leg.
- the annular flange need not take on the same shape as the leg.
- a flange may take on a shape and ornamental design that suits the theme of the game.
- FIG. 8 is a front elevation 800 of a dice structure with buttressed elevating leg members, according to some embodiments.
- the present front elevation 800 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein.
- the front elevation 800 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment.
- the dice structure apparatus 102 has buttressed elevating legs 106 , where each leg is reinforced with buttresses (e.g., buttress 109 1 , 109 2 ).
- the transparent dice structure apparatus 102 is formed of an acrylic receptacle to receive the dice, the receptacle having a sidewall 104 .
- This embodiment has three legs; the legs are inserted into the rigid receptacle up to the buttresses. Once assembled legs serve to elevate the rigid receptacle above a substantially flat playing surface.
- the legs can be installed and/or removed by a consumer, and furthermore once removed from being inserted into the rigid receptacle the legs can be stored in the volume of the acrylic receptacle.
- FIG. 9A is a cross-section 900 of a dice structure with a lining.
- the following example describes the use of a soft material to reduce the volume of sound and the height of bounces when dice impact the bottom surface of an acrylic receptacle.
- One such suitable material is a clear vinyl sheet of 1/16′′ thickness which covers the lower surface of the receptacle 903 .
- FIG. 9B is a cross-section of a dice structure with a lining.
- a suitable material covers a portion of the lower surface of the receptacle and rests in a recessed area 905 , as shown.
Abstract
Disclosed are articles of manufacture, and techniques for making and using dice structure with elevating leg members. In an exemplary embodiment, a dice structure apparatus is configured with elevating leg members. The apparatus comprises a rigid receptacle to receive at least one die; and legs are affixed to the rigid receptacle such that the legs serve to elevate the rigid receptacle above a playing surface.
Description
- The disclosure relates to the field of amusement devices having a playing surface and dice and more particularly to techniques for managing dice using a dice structure with elevating leg members.
- Many games known as “board games” or “table top games” are played with tokens moved about the playing surface according to the rules of the game. Many games involve some element of chance, and further, some games introduce the element of chance using one or more die. In such cases having the combination of a playing surface, one or more tokens, and one or more die, it frequently occurs that the “throw of the dice” has the unintended effect of disturbing the tokens on the playing surface. Worse, in some cases the rules of the game define a “good throw” of the dice as a throw where the one or more die come to rest fully upon the game board or within bounds of the playing surface. A throw where a die is ruled “out of bounds” must be taken again, which rule further exacerbates the problem in that a player is compelled repeatedly to throw the die onto the playing surface where the tokens are arranged to indicate the state of play.
- Earlier attempts to address this problem have included replacing the die with a different device to introduce the element of chance into the game, for example a spinner affixed to the game board. This alternative has limited utility, and as time has shown such spinning devices often have a much shorter lifespan than the game board and tokens comprising the board game. Further, earlier attempts to solve this problem include use of a “dice tray”. However, such dice trays have suffered deficiencies at least in that the dice tray often does not have sufficient height to contain the throw of the dice, and furthermore a dice tray occludes the playing surface. Even when a dice tray is formed of a transparent material (e.g., so as not to optically occlude the game) the dice tray nevertheless consumes some of the playing area, and such area may be needed during normal progression of game play.
- Therefore, there is a need for improved approaches.
- Those skilled in the art will understand that the drawings, described herein, are for illustration purposes only. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
-
FIG. 1 is a front elevation of a dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 2 is a front elevation showing a removable lid atop a dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 3A is a top view of a hexagonal dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 3B is a side view of a hexagonal dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 4A is a top view of a hexagonal inner barrier-type dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 4B is a side view of a hexagonal inner barrier-type dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 5A is a side view of a curvilinear dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 5B is a top view of a curvilinear dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 5C is a top view of an oblong dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 6 presents an array of cross sections of legs having ornamental designs for use with a dice structure with elevating leg members, according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 7A is a side view of a leg with a flange, according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 7B is a top view of a leg with a flange, according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 8 is a front elevation of a dice structure with buttressed elevating leg members, according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 9A is a cross section of a dice structure with an inner lining, according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 9B is a cross section of a dice structure with a recessed inner lining, according to some embodiments. - “Leg” or “legs” refers to a structural member serving to elevate the dice structure above a surface.
- “Die” or “dice” refers to a three dimensional shape having at least three faces, having at least two symbols impressed thereupon. The symbols can comprise numerals, or counting divots, or any other symbols at least two of which are visibly distinguishable one from another.
- Reference is now made in detail to certain embodiments. The disclosed embodiments are not intended to be limiting of the claims.
- The compositions of matter referred to in the present disclosure comprise various materials. For example, any rigid or semi-rigid structure may take on various shapes, and the following exemplary materials may be used without limitation unless as may be specified in the claims: acrylic, polycarbonate, paper, cardboard, plastic, wood, metal, laminates, glass, ceramics, clay, paper-mache, curable plastic, epoxies and resins, etc.
- The list above is representative and should not be taken to include all the materials that may be used within embodiments described herein.
- One approach is to provide a dice structure with legs to elevate the dice structure above the playing surface such that the dice structure is to receive the “throw” and contain the die or dice to the volume of the dice structure, thus minimizing the risk that a throw will disturb the tokens or other play elements atop the playing surface. Applicable structures are disclosed herein.
-
FIG. 1 is afront elevation 100 of a dice structure with elevating leg members. As an option, the presentfront elevation 100 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein. Thefront elevation 100 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment. - Shown is an assembly comprising a rigid receptacle (e.g., dice structure 102) sitting atop legs (e.g.,
leg 106 1,leg 106 2, etc.), which assembly in turn sits atop aplaying surface 114. A portion of theborder 112 of the playing surface is depicted as dashed lines, and the dice structure apparatus is elevating by the leg members so that there is space below the dice structure for game pieces (e.g., game piece 108 1, game piece 108 2). Game pieces can be of differing sizes (as shown) and yet there is space below the dice structure for game pieces to be placed on a portion of the playing surface in certain positions, in accordance with game play. - During the progression of game play, some games introduce the element of chance using dice (e.g., die 110 1, or die 110 2). The rigid receptacle serves to receive at least one die, and the walls of the rigid receptacle serve to contain the dice when thrown into the concavity of the rigid receptacle.
- The appearance of the rigid receptacle in terms of an ornamental design can be aesthetically considered as to conform to a theme, possibly a theme related to a particular game. Furthermore, the appearance of the rigid receptacle can be altered by varying the thickness of a
sidewall 104 of the rigid receptacle. For example, the rigid receptacle can be formed by sidewalls having a thickness of about 0.1875 inches to about 0.25 inches. Alternatively, the sidewalls can have a thickness that is thinner than about 0.1875, or a thickness that is thicker than about 0.25 inches. The rigid receptacle can be comprised of an acrylic material, or another material. In exemplary embodiments, the rigid receptacle has a mass of about 1 kg or another mass so that the effect of the throw does not move the dice structure. -
FIG. 2 is afront elevation 200 showing aremovable lid 202 atop a dice structure with elevating leg members. As an option, the presentfront elevation 200 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein. Thefront elevation 200 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment. - The rigid receptacle shown has three legs, however this is merely one example, and a rigid receptacle can be affixed to more (or fewer) than three legs (or other leg-like supporting structures). The legs can be variously sized so as to elevate the rigid receptacle to a desired height. For example, the legs can have a height H2 of about 28 mm, or for example, the legs can have a height H2 of more than about 28 mm.
- In some cases, the
legs 106 are comprised of an acrylic material, and in some cases the legs are shaped so as to be detachable from the rigid receptacle. In still other embodiments, height of the legs is adjustable. For example, a leg can be formed of two or more slidably-mated segments such that the height can be adjusted. Further, a leg can be formed so as to mate (e.g., with an adhesive) to the soles of the legs (e.g., sole 216 1, sole 216 2, sole 216 3, etc.). In some embodiments, the soles of the legs comprise a fabric sole. - A
sidewall 104 can be tall or short, or decorated or undecorated. In some embodiments, a sidewall serves to contain the dice when the height H1 of the sidewall is at least 3.25 inches. In accordance with some decorated embodiments, thedice structure 102 can have substantially rounded edges. Aesthetically consistent with such rounded edges, thedice structure 102 can be substantially curvilinear in shape, or thedice structure 102 can be substantially formed of polygon shapes. -
FIG. 3A is atop view 300 of a hexagonal dice structure with elevating leg members. As an option, the presenttop view 300 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein. Thetop view 300 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment. - As shown, the hexagonal dice structure with elevating leg members has a
receptacle 302 for a leg member. Such a receptacle can be positioned at a vertex of the sidewall concavity (as shown). Alternatively, in some cases a sidewall can be thicker than the embodiment ofFIG. 3A and the receptacle can be positioned between a sidewallinner wall 304 and a sidewallouter wall 306. -
FIG. 3B is aside view 350 of a hexagonal dice structure with elevating leg members. As an option, thepresent side view 350 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein. Theside view 350 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment. - The
aforementioned receptacle 302 for a leg member may be keyed so as to mate positively with akeyed leg 303. The key can be formed so as to allow only one keyed leg or another (which may be differently-keyed) to mate positively into aparticular receptacle 302. Such embodiments include configurations with different length legs (e.g., one leg being shorter than another), thus, in such an assembly the dice structure may be positioned at an angle relative to the plane of a portion of the playing surface. -
FIG. 4A is atop view 400 of a hexagonal inner barrier-type dice structure with elevating leg members. As an option, the presenttop view 400 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein. Thetop view 400 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment. - As shown, the
inner barrier 404 forms anopening 402, yet leaving a concavity within the rigid receptacle. Despite the presence of theopening 402, the concavity within the rigid receptacle serves to receive at least one die, and the walls ofinner barrier 404, together with the sidewall of the rigid receptacle, serve to contain the dice when thrown into the concavity of the rigid receptacle. -
FIG. 4B is aside view 450 of a hexagonal inner barrier-type dice structure with elevating leg members. As an option, thepresent side view 450 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein. Theside view 450 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment. - As earlier indicated, the
dice structure 102 can accept legs of various shapes, sizes, and functions. Shown in the embodiment ofFIG. 4B are extensible legs (e.g.,extensible leg 406 1, extensible leg 406 2) with anadditional leg extension 408. -
FIG. 5A is a side view 5A00 of a curvilinear dice structure with elevating leg members. As an option, the present side view 5A00 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein. The side view 5A00 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment. -
FIG. 5B is a top view 5B00 of a curvilinear dice structure with elevating leg members. As an option, the present top view 5B00 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein. The top view 5B00 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment. - As shown, the curvilinear dice structure may comprise a circular shape.
-
FIG. 5C is a top view 5C00 of an oblong dice structure with elevating leg members. As an option, the present top view 5C00 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein. The top view 5C00 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment. - As shown, the curvilinear dice structure may comprise an oblong shape.
-
FIG. 6 presents an array ofcross sections 600 of legs having ornamental designs for use with a dice structure with elevating leg members. As an option, thepresent cross sections 600 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein. Thecross sections 600 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment. - As shown legs can be formed into any ornamental design or shape. Strictly as examples, legs can assume the shape of a
square leg shape 602, atriangular leg shape 604, apentagonal leg shape 606, ahexagonal leg shape 608, aheptagonal leg shape 610, anoctagonal leg shape 612, a five-pointstar leg shape 614, a six-pointstar leg shape 616, a seven-pointstar leg shape 618, etc. In fact legs can be formed into any shape, and can bear any ornamental design. -
FIG. 7A is a side view of a leg with a flange, according to some embodiments. - The foregoing embodiments exemplify a dice structure apparatus with multiple elevating leg members. It is possible to configure a dice structure apparatus with just one elevating leg member. Such embodiments can comprise a rigid receptacle to receive at least one die; and a single leg, the leg affixed to the rigid receptacle wherein the single leg serves to elevate the rigid receptacle above a substantially flat playing surface.
- Generally, a rigid receptacle supported by a
single leg 106 will topple; yet, the single leg embodiments include a playing surface configured with a throughhole to accept the shape of the leg. The depth of penetration of the leg into the throughhole can be arranged by positioning anannular flange 702 about the single leg at a point between a first end of the single leg and a midpoint of the single leg. -
FIG. 7B is a top view of a leg with a flange, according to some embodiments. - As aforementioned, the depth of penetration of the leg into the throughhole can be arranged by positioning an annular flange about the single leg at a point between a first end of the single leg and a midpoint of the single leg. However, the annular flange need not take on the same shape as the leg. In fact, a flange may take on a shape and ornamental design that suits the theme of the game.
- The following examples describe in detail examples of constituent elements of the herein-disclosed embodiments. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications, both to materials and methods, may be practiced without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
-
FIG. 8 is afront elevation 800 of a dice structure with buttressed elevating leg members, according to some embodiments. As an option, the presentfront elevation 800 may be implemented in the context of the structure and functionality of the embodiments described herein. Thefront elevation 800 or any aspect therein may be implemented in any desired environment. - As shown, the
dice structure apparatus 102 has buttressed elevatinglegs 106, where each leg is reinforced with buttresses (e.g., buttress 109 1, 109 2). The transparentdice structure apparatus 102 is formed of an acrylic receptacle to receive the dice, the receptacle having asidewall 104. This embodiment has three legs; the legs are inserted into the rigid receptacle up to the buttresses. Once assembled legs serve to elevate the rigid receptacle above a substantially flat playing surface. - In this embodiment, the legs can be installed and/or removed by a consumer, and furthermore once removed from being inserted into the rigid receptacle the legs can be stored in the volume of the acrylic receptacle.
-
FIG. 9A is across-section 900 of a dice structure with a lining. The following example describes the use of a soft material to reduce the volume of sound and the height of bounces when dice impact the bottom surface of an acrylic receptacle. One such suitable material is a clear vinyl sheet of 1/16″ thickness which covers the lower surface of thereceptacle 903. -
FIG. 9B is a cross-section of a dice structure with a lining. In this embodiment, a suitable material covers a portion of the lower surface of the receptacle and rests in a recessedarea 905, as shown. - Finally, it should be noted that there are alternative ways of implementing the embodiments disclosed herein. Accordingly, the present embodiments are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive, and the claims are not to be limited to the details given herein, but may be modified within the scope and equivalents thereof.
Claims (20)
1. A dice structure apparatus with elevating leg members, comprising:
a rigid receptacle to receive at least one die; and
at least three legs, the legs affixed to the rigid receptacle;
wherein the legs serve to elevate the rigid receptacle above a playing surface.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the rigid receptacle comprises a sidewall having a height H1 of at least 3.25 inches.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the rigid receptacle comprises a sidewall having a thickness of about 0.1875 inches to about 0.25 inches.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the legs have a height H2 of at least 28 mm.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the rigid receptacle is comprised of an acrylic material.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the rigid receptacle is lined with a sheeting material that is softer that the a rigid receptacle.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the rigid receptacle has a mass of greater than 1 pound.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the legs is comprised of an acrylic material.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the rigid receptacle has rounded edges.
10. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the legs are detachable from the rigid receptacle.
11. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the height of the legs is adjustable.
12. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the legs further comprise one or more buttresses.
13. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the legs further comprise a fabric sole.
14. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the rigid receptacle is formed of polygon shapes.
15. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the rigid receptacle is substantially curvilinear in shape.
16. A dice structure apparatus with an elevating leg member, comprising:
a rigid receptacle to receive at least one die; and
a single leg, the leg affixed to the rigid receptacle;
wherein the single leg serves to elevate the rigid receptacle above a playing surface.
17. The apparatus of claim 16 , further comprising an annular flange positioned about the single leg at a point between a first end of the single leg and a midpoint of the single leg.
18. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein the playing surface is configured with a throughhole to accept the shape of the single leg at least up to the flange.
19. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein the rigid receptacle is lined with a sheeting material that is softer that the a rigid receptacle.
20. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein the rigid receptacle is substantially curvilinear in shape.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/552,465 US20140021681A1 (en) | 2012-07-18 | 2012-07-18 | Dice structure with elevating legs disposed atop a playing surface |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/552,465 US20140021681A1 (en) | 2012-07-18 | 2012-07-18 | Dice structure with elevating legs disposed atop a playing surface |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20140021681A1 true US20140021681A1 (en) | 2014-01-23 |
Family
ID=49945915
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/552,465 Abandoned US20140021681A1 (en) | 2012-07-18 | 2012-07-18 | Dice structure with elevating legs disposed atop a playing surface |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20140021681A1 (en) |
Citations (29)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US434613A (en) * | 1890-08-19 | Dice-shaker | ||
US455390A (en) * | 1891-07-07 | Apparatus for shaking dice | ||
US484115A (en) * | 1892-10-11 | Harry j | ||
US1054694A (en) * | 1912-08-02 | 1913-03-04 | Arthur M Langworthy | Dice-throwing device. |
US1968885A (en) * | 1932-11-30 | 1934-08-07 | Ginsberg Jacob | Dice throwing apparatus |
US2103009A (en) * | 1937-02-11 | 1937-12-21 | Charles F Klein | Agitator for game elements |
US2109736A (en) * | 1935-08-19 | 1938-03-01 | Joseph M Roth | Game device |
US2378722A (en) * | 1943-03-24 | 1945-06-19 | James S Nicholas | Amusement device |
US2639153A (en) * | 1950-12-11 | 1953-05-19 | Richard P Murray | Dice shaking device |
US2708581A (en) * | 1952-10-11 | 1955-05-17 | Alvin G Barnes | Dice agitator |
US2724595A (en) * | 1954-10-18 | 1955-11-22 | Ralph W Amann | Dice box with pivoted cover |
US2911273A (en) * | 1958-11-06 | 1959-11-03 | Inpyn Anthony | Folding leg support for furniture |
US3061313A (en) * | 1960-01-20 | 1962-10-30 | Greene Sanford | Game apparatus |
US3175826A (en) * | 1963-01-18 | 1965-03-30 | Garlin R Davis | Dice machine table |
US3183030A (en) * | 1963-05-24 | 1965-05-11 | Schlueter Ernest | Fastening clip |
US3327889A (en) * | 1965-03-08 | 1967-06-27 | Pentwater Wire Products Inc | Folding container |
US3360267A (en) * | 1965-05-13 | 1967-12-26 | Ernest M Johnson | Dice agitation and casting apparatus |
US3468543A (en) * | 1967-08-18 | 1969-09-23 | Williams Ind Inc | Dice shaker |
US3684291A (en) * | 1970-06-08 | 1972-08-15 | Frank T Johmann | Dice throwing doll |
US3831948A (en) * | 1972-04-24 | 1974-08-27 | Yoshi Ito | Automatic dice shaking device |
US4095796A (en) * | 1976-11-02 | 1978-06-20 | Marvin Monson | Dice shaker |
US4383689A (en) * | 1981-06-10 | 1983-05-17 | Michael Kohner Corporation | Symbol game method |
US4424912A (en) * | 1977-07-19 | 1984-01-10 | Rudolf Bieri | Container with extendable legs |
US4437665A (en) * | 1982-02-09 | 1984-03-20 | Ora Coster | Dice box |
US4489946A (en) * | 1982-09-30 | 1984-12-25 | Ortiz Burgos Angel A | Board game having consistent shape relationship among its parts |
US4645209A (en) * | 1985-05-03 | 1987-02-24 | Goulter Victor H | Pattern-formation strategy board game |
US5839960A (en) * | 1995-05-15 | 1998-11-24 | Parra; Anthony C. | Table for playing a game of chance |
US20030222397A1 (en) * | 2002-06-03 | 2003-12-04 | Winsor Corporation | Portable self-contained game |
US8191910B2 (en) * | 2008-04-15 | 2012-06-05 | The Stanley Works Israel Ltd. | Containers and container system |
-
2012
- 2012-07-18 US US13/552,465 patent/US20140021681A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (29)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US434613A (en) * | 1890-08-19 | Dice-shaker | ||
US455390A (en) * | 1891-07-07 | Apparatus for shaking dice | ||
US484115A (en) * | 1892-10-11 | Harry j | ||
US1054694A (en) * | 1912-08-02 | 1913-03-04 | Arthur M Langworthy | Dice-throwing device. |
US1968885A (en) * | 1932-11-30 | 1934-08-07 | Ginsberg Jacob | Dice throwing apparatus |
US2109736A (en) * | 1935-08-19 | 1938-03-01 | Joseph M Roth | Game device |
US2103009A (en) * | 1937-02-11 | 1937-12-21 | Charles F Klein | Agitator for game elements |
US2378722A (en) * | 1943-03-24 | 1945-06-19 | James S Nicholas | Amusement device |
US2639153A (en) * | 1950-12-11 | 1953-05-19 | Richard P Murray | Dice shaking device |
US2708581A (en) * | 1952-10-11 | 1955-05-17 | Alvin G Barnes | Dice agitator |
US2724595A (en) * | 1954-10-18 | 1955-11-22 | Ralph W Amann | Dice box with pivoted cover |
US2911273A (en) * | 1958-11-06 | 1959-11-03 | Inpyn Anthony | Folding leg support for furniture |
US3061313A (en) * | 1960-01-20 | 1962-10-30 | Greene Sanford | Game apparatus |
US3175826A (en) * | 1963-01-18 | 1965-03-30 | Garlin R Davis | Dice machine table |
US3183030A (en) * | 1963-05-24 | 1965-05-11 | Schlueter Ernest | Fastening clip |
US3327889A (en) * | 1965-03-08 | 1967-06-27 | Pentwater Wire Products Inc | Folding container |
US3360267A (en) * | 1965-05-13 | 1967-12-26 | Ernest M Johnson | Dice agitation and casting apparatus |
US3468543A (en) * | 1967-08-18 | 1969-09-23 | Williams Ind Inc | Dice shaker |
US3684291A (en) * | 1970-06-08 | 1972-08-15 | Frank T Johmann | Dice throwing doll |
US3831948A (en) * | 1972-04-24 | 1974-08-27 | Yoshi Ito | Automatic dice shaking device |
US4095796A (en) * | 1976-11-02 | 1978-06-20 | Marvin Monson | Dice shaker |
US4424912A (en) * | 1977-07-19 | 1984-01-10 | Rudolf Bieri | Container with extendable legs |
US4383689A (en) * | 1981-06-10 | 1983-05-17 | Michael Kohner Corporation | Symbol game method |
US4437665A (en) * | 1982-02-09 | 1984-03-20 | Ora Coster | Dice box |
US4489946A (en) * | 1982-09-30 | 1984-12-25 | Ortiz Burgos Angel A | Board game having consistent shape relationship among its parts |
US4645209A (en) * | 1985-05-03 | 1987-02-24 | Goulter Victor H | Pattern-formation strategy board game |
US5839960A (en) * | 1995-05-15 | 1998-11-24 | Parra; Anthony C. | Table for playing a game of chance |
US20030222397A1 (en) * | 2002-06-03 | 2003-12-04 | Winsor Corporation | Portable self-contained game |
US8191910B2 (en) * | 2008-04-15 | 2012-06-05 | The Stanley Works Israel Ltd. | Containers and container system |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
USD590025S1 (en) | Gaming console for primary and secondary games | |
US9248357B2 (en) | Bean bag tossing game | |
US7516960B1 (en) | Inflatable table | |
US7766337B2 (en) | Game apparatus | |
US20160038809A1 (en) | Multi-Tiered Toss Target Game | |
WO2008094314A3 (en) | Target game | |
US8757623B2 (en) | Board games | |
US20160296816A1 (en) | Toss game and methods thereof | |
US20140027983A1 (en) | Tiered beer pong device | |
USD696358S1 (en) | Playing surface for dice games | |
CN108201694A (en) | Table for game | |
US20160082333A1 (en) | Tabletop game and game piece therefor | |
USD524872S1 (en) | Board game | |
USD898829S1 (en) | Board for a board game | |
US8434762B1 (en) | Air table game assembly | |
US20140021681A1 (en) | Dice structure with elevating legs disposed atop a playing surface | |
USD623239S1 (en) | Three dimensional tic-tac-toe game | |
USD594511S1 (en) | Arrayed-peg game board | |
USD570418S1 (en) | Football game play table | |
US20160158637A1 (en) | Game assemblies with launching game pieces | |
USD795964S1 (en) | Reversible game board | |
USD895016S1 (en) | Game playing surface for poker | |
US20140361487A1 (en) | Mahjong game set | |
USD940245S1 (en) | Combination game board and dice set | |
JP5097003B2 (en) | Ring throwing game assisting tool and ball game board having the same |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |