US20180326296A1

US20180326296A1 - Game piece

Info

Publication number: US20180326296A1
Application number: US15/975,514
Authority: US
Inventors: Anthony Hanses; Hanley W. Hallen
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2017-05-09
Filing date: 2018-05-09
Publication date: 2018-11-15
Also published as: WO2018208996A1

Abstract

This invention relates generally to a game-piece article. In one embodiment, a game-piece article includes, but is not limited to, a base structure comprised of a base and at least one pylon structure coupled to the base structure and projecting therefrom.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application claims priority to and/or the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62/503,862 filed May 9, 2017. The foregoing application is incorporated by reference in its entirety as if fully set forth herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to a game-piece article for use in entertainment.

SUMMARY

This invention relates general to a game-piece article. Specific details of certain embodiments of the invention are set forth in the following description and in the figures to provide a thorough understanding of such embodiments. The present invention may have additional embodiments, may be practiced without one or more of the details described for any particular described embodiment, or may have any detail described for one particular embodiment practiced with any other detail described for another embodiment.
In one embodiment, a game-piece article comprises, but is not limited to, a base structure comprised of a base and at least one pylon structure coupled to the base structure and projecting therefrom.
In one embodiment, a game-piece article comprises, but is not limited to, a metallic, pentagonal base structure with at least one pylon structure extending upward from its surface, and at least one or more cubic tokens with channels bored between two faces, removably couplable to the base structure by insertion of the at least one pylon structure of the base structure through the channel.
In certain embodiments, the game-piece article is used for the tracking of information as used in a board game or other physical entertainment medium, wherein the at least one pylon structure is used to track information about player or automated characters, or any other information related to a game-piece article.
In certain embodiments, the base structure can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, or prismatic, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The base structure may be shaped from the list including, but not limited to, square, circle, hexagon, arrow or triangle. The base structure can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The base structure may have at least one or more pylon structures extending out from itself to which the one or more tokens may be coupled. The at least one pylon structures may be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, crescent, or prismatic. The pylons may be in various configurations such as, but not limited to, the shape of a hook, or have bends in their structure to allow attached one or more tokens to seat in the bend. The base structure can be from one centimeter to three inches wide and long, and one centimeter to three inches tall. The at least one pylon structures may be one centimeter to three inches tall, and one-half millimeter to two centimeters in radius.
In certain embodiments, the base structure may be further comprised of an object that is coupled to the base to represent entities in a game session including, but not limited to, a player's character piece, a non-player character piece, an item, an objective, or any other representation needed as part of the game session.
In certain embodiments, the base structure is further comprised of an aperture into which the at least one pylon structure may be inserted. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structure is configured to removably couple to the base. The removable coupling may be enabled through a mechanism such as a clip, or through friction and/or gravity as the at least one pylon structure is inserted into the aperture. In some embodiments the one or more tokens are configured to removably couple with the at least one pylon structure.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures are arranged in a symmetrical or asymmetrical pattern around the base structure, depending on the size and number of the pylons and base structure. The pylons may be arranged in a square pattern with a pylon at the corresponding corners of a cubic base structure. The pylons may be arranged in a pentagon pattern equally spaced around the center of a cylindrical base structure. The pylons may be arranged all or some on a specified side of the base structure. In some embodiments, the at least one pylon structures are arranged to allow an object such as a sculpture or model to seat on the base structure. The at least one pylon structures may be placed on any location on the base including the perimeter or in the center, depending on the needs of the user. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structures are inserted into a channel into the base, while in others they are attached to surface of the base by an adhesive, peg, or other fastening mechanism.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures extend upward from the base structure, perpendicular to its largest plane. The pylons may also extend upward at an angle so as to create a star shape or extend outward from the base structure at a ninety-degree angle. The pylons need not all be oriented in the exact same direction.
In certain embodiments, the base structure can include reference indicia that indicate which, if any, of the at least one pylon structures should couple to the base structure and how they should do so. These indicia may be, but are not limited to, written symbols or physical demarcations.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylinders, disks, cuboids, cones, pyramid, prisms, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The one or more tokens can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The one or more tokens may have dimensions of one millimeter to two inches in width and height and length, and the channels may have a diameter of one millimeter to two inches. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens is in the form of a cuboid with a hole bored through it and is removably couplable to the at least one pylon structure, which is in the shape of a polygon with a cylindrical pylon emerging from the base, by inserting the at least one pylon structure through the one or more tokens such that the one or more tokens is held down against the base of the base structure by gravity and/or friction.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens can come in different varieties or configurations with different shapes, sizes, colors, symbols, or attachment means to the base structure or other pylon structures. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens may have a token configuration whereby the channel does not fully penetrate the token, creating a cap token. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens are further comprised of a flange that corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens are further comprised of a channel that corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens may couple to the at least on pylon structure through a variety of means including, but not limited to: by complimentary inputs with integrated clasps, by magnetic attachment, by a latch mechanism on either the base structure or the at least one pylon structure, by temporary adhesive, by inserting the at least one pylon structure into an alcove or slot on the base structure, by inserting the at least one pylon structure or other extension from the base structure into a hole or channel in the at least one pylon structure as a peg-and-hole mechanism, by sliding a flange on the at least one pylon structure into a flange on the base structure, by including a threading on the one or more tokens and a corresponding threading on the at least one pylon structure or vice versa. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens includes multiple connection points which allow for the connection of multiple tokens to each other, to the at least one pylon structure, or to the base structure. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens includes multiple attachment methods or points such that the one or more tokens can removably couple to the base structure and/or the at least one pylon structures.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens further comprise symbols including, but not limited to, letters or numbers to further facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens can be of differing colors to facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens may be further comprised of integrated lights or speakers which activate or deactivate based on coupling to the at least one pylon structure or to the base structure.
In certain embodiments, the base structure further comprises a computer processing component, one or more sensors, and one or more devices from the list including but not limited to, speakers or lights. In some embodiments, the computer processing component is configured to receive data from a sensor which provides information on what if anything is coupled to the at least one pylon structure. The computer processing component then interprets the data and can instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn or change color; instruct a display to display information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure on a screen; instruct a communication device to send information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure to another device; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a sound or tone. In some embodiments, the game-piece article further comprises an electronic communication interface that may be connected to the computer processor wherein the latter is configured to transmit information regarding a number and a type of the one or more tokens coupled to at least one of the at least one pylon structures.
In certain embodiments the game-piece article is further comprised of one or more tokens which may take on a variety of polygonal shapes including but not limited to cubes, tori, pyramids, cylinders or hexagons. In some embodiments the one or more tokens include a channel through which the at least one pylon structure may be configured to be inserted. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens may be further comprised of a computer processor and sensor which is configured to communicate with other of the one or more tokens wirelessly or through a direct connection. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens may further comprise of one or more lights configured to activate or deactivate based on input from a computer processor located in the game-piece article or the game board. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens further comprise a sensor or other activator that detects when it is connected with a at least one pylon structure or one or more tokens and activate a light or instruct a speaker to play a sound. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens may further comprise a clip complementary to a clip located on the at least one pylon structure, the clip may be in a variety of configurations allowing for the token to secure to the at least one pylon structure. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens further comprise a channel which may or may not be threaded which corresponds to a threading on the at least one pylon structure. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens further comprise a flange which corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure, enabling the token to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens comprise a channel which corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure, enabling the one or more tokens to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens have additional clips or clip-points configured to allow two of the one or more tokens to removably couple to each other. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens are in the shape of a torus and are comprised of a channel through which at least one pylon structure may be inserted. The tokens can be opaque, translucent, or partially thereof. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens further comprise additional configurations or varieties of token to symbolize different information in the game session. In certain embodiments one variety of token may be a toroid while another may be cuboid, or one may be cylindrical while another is pyramid shaped.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structure further comprises a computer processing component which is configured to interpret data from attached sensors and communicate with other devices. In some embodiments, the computer processing component receives information from a detector which informs the computer processing component whether the one or more tokens is attached to the base structure or one of the at least one pylon structures, and is able to provide the computer processing component with data from the at least one pylon structures or the base structure, and the computer processing component is able to interpret that data and can instruct an attached screen to turn on or off and/or display information based on that data; instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn off or change color; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a tone or sound.
In certain embodiments, the invention comprises a game-board system which comprises, at least one game-piece article comprising; a base structure comprised of a base at least one pylon structure coupled to the base structure and projecting therefrom; and one or more tokens configured to removably couple to the at least one pylon structure; a game-board article comprising; at least one substantially flat game board marked with at least one polygonal zone large enough to contain at least one game-piece article for a player to place a player-controlled game piece and at least one polygonal zone large enough to contain at least one game-piece article for a player to place a non-player-controlled game piece; and a storage area for the at least one game-piece article.
In certain embodiments, the game board ranges in size from two inches to three feet in width and/or length, and anywhere from 0.002 to six inches in height. In certain embodiments the at least one polygonal zone ranges in size from one centimeter to three inches in width and length with a height corresponding to the height of the game board. In some embodiments the game board may vary in height at different points, with some areas being taller or shorter than others. In some embodiments, the at least one polygonal zones may vary in height with some being taller or shorter than others. The variation in height may be uniform across the at least one polygonal zones or it may not be and instead be characterized by a gradient, division, or irregular shape.
In certain embodiments the storage area for the at least one game-piece article is further comprised of a container with at least one opening. In certain embodiments the container is comprised of a polygonal shape with an internal cavity configured to receive and store at least one of the at least one game-piece articles and/or tokens 108.
In certain embodiments the game-board article is comprised of one or more sections. These sections may take on a variety of two or three-dimensional shapes, including, but not limited to, squares, rectangles, pyramids, circles, and/or hexagons, or a combination thereof. These sections may be made up of smaller polygons such as a section that is made up of connected hexagons or squares, which may be removably coupled with other sections to form a modular game board or may form a larger board when placed adjacent to each other. In some embodiments these sections may be connected in various configurations to generate a variety of shapes. In certain embodiments, these sections may removably couple through a variety of means including, but not limited to, clips, interlocking flanges, friction, magnetically, and/or through pegs and slots.
In certain embodiments the game-board article further comprises electronic components including, but not limited to, one or more computer processors, electronic communication interfaces, and/or one or more sensors. The computer processor may be configured to detect the position of the at least one game-piece article and/or when the one or more tokens are coupled to at least one or more of the at least one pylon structures using the one or more sensors. In some embodiments there may be an associated display or electronic communication interface with the game board which the computer processor may instruct to display information about the state of the game session including but not limited to information regarding the position of the one or more game-piece articles, what and how many of the one or more tokens are coupled to the at least one pylon structures, allow for user input and navigation of information, or other information relevant to the game session. In certain embodiments the game-board article further comprises one or more speakers which may be instructed by the computer processor to make one or more sounds to convey information about the game or in response to events occurring related to the game. The sounds may include, but are not limited to, information about the game session, the position of the one or more game-piece articles, what and how many of the one or more tokens are coupled to the one or more pylon structures. In certain embodiments the game-board article further comprises one or more lights that the computer processor may instruct to activate or deactivate based on information from the sensors or another input. The lights may be configured to activate based on certain game states, indicating things including but not limited to, the position of the one or more game-piece articles, the addition or removal of the one or more tokens from the one or more pylon structures, or in response to other events related to the game session. The one or more lights may be of different, or changing colors, opacities or shapes to indicate different information or states in the game session.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the following drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a game-piece article, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a top down view of a game-piece article, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a bottom up view of a game-piece article, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a front view of a game-piece article, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a side view of a game-piece article, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 is a top down view of a game-piece article, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a game-piece article, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a top down view of a game-piece article, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a game-piece article, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a game-board system, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a game-board system, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 12 is a top down view of a game-board system, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This invention relates generally to a method for making a deck for use in construction. Specific details of certain embodiments of the invention are set forth in the following description and in FIGS. 1-12 to provide a thorough understanding of such embodiments. The present invention may have additional embodiments, may be practiced without one or more of the details described for any particular described embodiment, or may have any detail described for one particular embodiment practiced with any other detail described for another embodiment.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a game-piece article 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a base structure 102 comprised of a base 104 and at least one pylon structure 106 coupled to the base structure 102 and projecting therefrom.
In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a metallic, pentagonal base structure 102 with at least one pylon structure 106 extending upward from its surface, and at least one or more cubic tokens 108 with channels 109 bored between two faces, removably couplable to the base structure 102 by insertion of the at least one pylon structure 106 of the base structure 102 through the channel 109.
In certain embodiments, the game-piece article 100 is used for the tracking of information as used in a board game or other physical entertainment medium, wherein the at least one pylon structure 106 is used to track information about player or automated characters, or any other information related to a game-piece article 100.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, or prismatic, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The base structure 102 may be shaped from the list including, but not limited to, square, circle, hexagon, arrow or triangle. The base structure 102 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The base structure 102 may have at least one or more pylon structures 106 extending out from itself to which the one or more tokens 108 may be coupled. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, crescent, or prismatic. The pylons may be in various configurations such as, but not limited to, the shape of a hook, or have bends in their structure to allow attached one or more tokens 108 to seat in the bend. The base structure 102 can be from one centimeter to three inches wide and long, and one centimeter to three inches tall. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be one centimeter to three inches tall, and one-half millimeter to two centimeters in radius.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 may be further comprised of an object 110 that is coupled to the base 104 to represent entities in a game session including, but not limited to, a player's character piece, a non-player character piece, an item, an objective, or any other representation needed as part of the game session
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 is further comprised of an aperture into which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structure 106 are configured to removably couple to the base 104. The removable coupling may be enabled through a mechanism such as a clip, or through friction and/or gravity as the at least one pylon structure 106 is inserted into the aperture 600. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are configured to removably couple with the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged in a symmetrical or asymmetrical pattern around the base structure 102, depending on the size and number of the pylons and base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a square pattern with a pylon at the corresponding corners of a cubic base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a pentagon pattern equally spaced around the center of a cylindrical base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged all or some on a specified side of the base structure 102. In some embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged to allow an object 110 such as a sculpture or model to seat on the base structure 102. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be placed on any location on the base 104 including the perimeter or in the center, depending on the needs of the user. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structures 106 are inserted into a channel 109 into the base 104, while in others they are attached to surface of the base 104 by an adhesive, peg, or other fastening mechanism.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures extend upward from the base structure 102, perpendicular to its largest plane. The pylons 106 may also extend upward at an angle so as to create a star shape or extend outward from the base structure 102 at a ninety-degree angle. The pylons 106 need not all be oriented in the exact same direction.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can include reference indicia that indicate which, if any, of the at least one pylon structures 106 should couple to the base structure 102 and how they should do so. These indicia may be, but are not limited to, written symbols or physical demarcations.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylinders, disks, cuboids, cones, pyramid, prisms, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The one or more tokens 108 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The one or more tokens 108 may have dimensions of one millimeter to two inches in width and height and length, and the channels 109 may have a diameter of one millimeter to two inches. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 is in the form of a cuboid with a hole bored through it and is removably couplable to the at least one pylon structure 106, which is in the shape of a polygon with a cylindrical pylon emerging from the base 104, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 through the one or more tokens 108 such that the one or more tokens 108 is held down against the base 104 of the base structure 102 by gravity and/or friction.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can come in different varieties or configurations with different shapes, sizes, colors, symbols, or attachment means to the base structure 102 or other pylon structures 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may have a token configuration whereby the channel 109 does not fully penetrate the token, creating a cap token. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a flange that corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a channel that corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may couple to the at least on pylon structure 106 through a variety of means including, but not limited to: by complimentary inputs with integrated clasps, by magnetic attachment, by a latch mechanism on either the base structure 102 or the at least one pylon structure 106, by temporary adhesive, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 into an alcove or slot on the base structure 102, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 or other extension from the base structure 102 into a hole or channel in the at least one pylon structure 106 as a peg-and-hole mechanism, by sliding a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106 into a flange on the base structure 102, by including a threading on the one or more tokens 108 and a corresponding threading on the at least one pylon structure 106 or vice versa. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple connection points which allow for the connection of multiple tokens 108 to each other, to the at least one pylon structure 106, or to the base structure 102. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple attachment methods or points such that the one or more tokens 108 can removably couple to the base structure 102 and/or the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise symbols including, but not limited to, letters or numbers to further facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of differing colors to facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of integrated lights or speakers which activate or deactivate based on coupling to the at least one pylon structure 106 or to the base structure 102.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 further comprises a computer processing component, one or more sensors, and one or more devices from the list including but not limited to, speakers or lights. In some embodiments, the computer processing component is configured to receive data from a sensor which provides information on what if anything is coupled to the at least one pylon structure 106. The computer processing component then interprets the data and can instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn of or change color; instruct a display to display information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 on a screen; instruct a communication device to send information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 to another device; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a sound or tone. In some embodiments, the game-piece article 100 further comprises an electronic communication interface that may be connected to the computer processor wherein the latter is configured to transmit information regarding a number and a type of the one or more tokens 108 coupled to at least one of the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments the game-piece article is further comprised of one or more tokens 108 which may take on a variety of polygonal shapes including but not limited to cubes, tori, pyramids, cylinders or hexagons. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 include a channel 109 through which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be configured to be inserted. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of a computer processor and sensor which is configured to communicate with other of the one or more tokens 108 wirelessly or through a direct connection. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise of one or more lights configured to activate or deactivate based on input from a computer processor located in the game-piece article or the game board. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a sensor or other activator that detects when it is connected with a at least one pylon structure 106 or one or more tokens 108 and activate a light or instruct a speaker to play a sound. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise a clip complementary to a clip located on the at least one pylon structure 106, the clip may be in a variety of configurations allowing for the token 108 to secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a channel 109 which may or may not be threaded which corresponds to a threading on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a flange which corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the token 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 comprise a channel 109 which corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the one or more tokens 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 have additional clips or clip-points configured to allow two of the one or more tokens to removably couple to each other. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are in the shape of a toms and are comprised of a channel 109 through which at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. The tokens 108 can be opaque, translucent, or partially thereof. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise additional configurations or varieties of token 108 to symbolize different information in the game session. In certain embodiments one variety of token 108 may be a toroid while another may be cuboid, or one may be cylindrical while another is pyramid shaped.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structure 106 further comprises a computer processing component which is configured to interpret data from attached sensors and communicate with other devices. In some embodiments, the computer processing component receives information from a detector which informs the computer processing component whether the at least one pylon structure 106 is attached to the base structure 102 or another pylon structure 106, and is able to provide the computer processing component with data from other pylon structures 106 or the base structure 102, and the computer processing component is able to interpret that data and can instruct an attached screen to turn on or off and/or display information based on that data; instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn off or change color; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a tone or sound.
FIG. 2 is a top down view of a game-piece article 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a base structure 102 comprised of a base 104 and at least one pylon structure 106 coupled to the base structure 102 and projecting therefrom.
In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a metallic, pentagonal base structure 102 with at least one pylon structure 106 extending upward from its surface, and at least one or more cubic tokens 108 with channels 109 bored between two faces, removably couplable to the base structure 102 by insertion of the at least one pylon structure 106 of the base structure 102 through the channel 109.
In certain embodiments, the game-piece article 100 is used for the tracking of information as used in a board game or other physical entertainment medium, wherein the at least one pylon structure 106 is used to track information about player or automated characters, or any other information related to a game-piece article 100.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, or prismatic, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The base structure 102 may be shaped from the list including, but not limited to, square, circle, hexagon, arrow or triangle. The base structure 102 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The base structure 102 may have at least one or more pylon structures 106 extending out from itself to which the one or more tokens 108 may be coupled. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, crescent, or prismatic. The pylons may be in various configurations such as, but not limited to, the shape of a hook, or have bends in their structure to allow attached one or more tokens 108 to seat in the bend. The base structure 102 can be from one centimeter to three inches wide and long, and one centimeter to three inches tall. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be one centimeter to three inches tall, and one-half millimeter to two centimeters in radius.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 may be further comprised of an object 110 that is coupled to the base 104 to represent entities in a game session including, but not limited to, a player's character piece, a non-player character piece, an item, an objective, or any other representation needed as part of the game session.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 is further comprised of an aperture into which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structure 106 are configured to removably couple to the base 104. The removable coupling may be enabled through a mechanism such as a clip, or through friction and/or gravity as the at least one pylon structure 106 is inserted into the aperture 600. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are configured to removably couple with the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged in a symmetrical or asymmetrical pattern around the base structure 102, depending on the size and number of the pylons and base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a square pattern with a pylon at the corresponding corners of a cubic base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a pentagon pattern equally spaced around the center of a cylindrical base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged all or some on a specified side of the base structure 102. In some embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged to allow an object 110 such as a sculpture or model to seat on the base structure 102. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be placed on any location on the base 104 including the perimeter or in the center, depending on the needs of the user. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structures 106 are inserted into a channel 109 into the base 104, while in others they are attached to surface of the base 104 by an adhesive, peg, or other fastening mechanism.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures extend upward from the base structure 102, perpendicular to its largest plane. The pylons 106 may also extend upward at an angle so as to create a star shape or extend outward from the base structure 102 at a ninety-degree angle. The pylons 106 need not all be oriented in the exact same direction.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can include reference indicia that indicate which, if any, of the at least one pylon structures 106 should couple to the base structure 102 and how they should do so. These indicia may be, but are not limited to, written symbols or physical demarcations.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylinders, disks, cuboids, cones, pyramid, prisms, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The one or more tokens 108 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The one or more tokens 108 may have dimensions of one millimeter to two inches in width and height and length, and the channels 109 may have a diameter of one millimeter to two inches. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 is in the form of a cuboid with a hole bored through it and is removably couplable to the at least one pylon structure 106, which is in the shape of a polygon with a cylindrical pylon emerging from the base 104, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 through the one or more tokens 108 such that the one or more tokens 108 is held down against the base 104 of the base structure 102 by gravity and/or friction.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can come in different varieties or configurations with different shapes, sizes, colors, symbols, or attachment means to the base structure 102 or other pylon structures 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may have a token configuration whereby the channel 109 does not fully penetrate the token, creating a cap token. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a flange that corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a channel that corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may couple to the at least on pylon structure 106 through a variety of means including, but not limited to: by complimentary inputs with integrated clasps, by magnetic attachment, by a latch mechanism on either the base structure 102 or the at least one pylon structure 106, by temporary adhesive, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 into an alcove or slot on the base structure 102, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 or other extension from the base structure 102 into a hole or channel in the at least one pylon structure 106 as a peg-and-hole mechanism, by sliding a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106 into a flange on the base structure 102, by including a threading on the one or more tokens 108 and a corresponding threading on the at least one pylon structure 106 or vice versa. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple connection points which allow for the connection of multiple tokens 108 to each other, to the at least one pylon structure 106, or to the base structure 102. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple attachment methods or points such that the one or more tokens 108 can removably couple to the base structure 102 and/or the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise symbols including, but not limited to, letters or numbers to further facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of differing colors to facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of integrated lights or speakers which activate or deactivate based on coupling to the at least one pylon structure 106 or to the base structure 102.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 further comprises a computer processing component, one or more sensors, and one or more devices from the list including but not limited to, speakers or lights. In some embodiments, the computer processing component is configured to receive data from a sensor which provides information on what if anything is coupled to the at least one pylon structure 106. The computer processing component then interprets the data and can instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn of or change color; instruct a display to display information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 on a screen; instruct a communication device to send information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 to another device; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a sound or tone. In some embodiments, the game-piece article 100 further comprises an electronic communication interface that may be connected to the computer processor wherein the latter is configured to transmit information regarding a number and a type of the one or more tokens 108 coupled to at least one of the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments the game-piece article is further comprised of one or more tokens 108 which may take on a variety of polygonal shapes including but not limited to cubes, tori, pyramids, cylinders or hexagons. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 include a channel 109 through which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be configured to be inserted. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of a computer processor and sensor which is configured to communicate with other of the one or more tokens 108 wirelessly or through a direct connection. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise of one or more lights configured to activate or deactivate based on input from a computer processor located in the game-piece article or the game board. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a sensor or other activator that detects when it is connected with a at least one pylon structure 106 or one or more tokens 108 and activate a light or instruct a speaker to play a sound. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise a clip complementary to a clip located on the at least one pylon structure 106, the clip may be in a variety of configurations allowing for the token 108 to secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a channel 109 which may or may not be threaded which corresponds to a threading on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a flange which corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the token 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 comprise a channel 109 which corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the one or more tokens 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 have additional clips or clip-points configured to allow two of the one or more tokens to removably couple to each other. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are in the shape of a toms and are comprised of a channel 109 through which at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. The tokens 108 can be opaque, translucent, or partially thereof. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise additional configurations or varieties of token 108 to symbolize different information in the game session. In certain embodiments one variety of token 108 may be a toroid while another may be cuboid, or one may be cylindrical while another is pyramid shaped.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structure 106 further comprises a computer processing component which is configured to interpret data from attached sensors and communicate with other devices. In some embodiments, the computer processing component receives information from a detector which informs the computer processing component whether the at least one pylon structure 106 is attached to the base structure 102 or another pylon structure 106, and is able to provide the computer processing component with data from other pylon structures 106 or the base structure 102, and the computer processing component is able to interpret that data and can instruct an attached screen to turn on or off and/or display information based on that data; instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn off or change color; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a tone or sound.
FIG. 3 is a bottom up view of a game-piece article 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a base structure 102 comprised of a base 104 and at least one pylon structure 106 coupled to the base structure 102 and projecting therefrom.
In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a metallic, pentagonal base structure 102 with at least one pylon structure 106 extending upward from its surface, and at least one or more cubic tokens 108 with channels 109 bored between two faces, removably couplable to the base structure 102 by insertion of the at least one pylon structure 106 of the base structure 102 through the channel 109.
In certain embodiments, the game-piece article 100 is used for the tracking of information as used in a board game or other physical entertainment medium, wherein the at least one pylon structure 106 is used to track information about player or automated characters, or any other information related to a game-piece article 100.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, or prismatic, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The base structure 102 may be shaped from the list including, but not limited to, square, circle, hexagon, arrow or triangle. The base structure 102 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The base structure 102 may have at least one or more pylon structures 106 extending out from itself to which the one or more tokens 108 may be coupled. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, crescent, or prismatic. The pylons may be in various configurations such as, but not limited to, the shape of a hook, or have bends in their structure to allow attached one or more tokens 108 to seat in the bend. The base structure 102 can be from one centimeter to three inches wide and long, and one centimeter to three inches tall. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be one centimeter to three inches tall, and one-half millimeter to two centimeters in radius.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 may be further comprised of an object 110 that is coupled to the base 104 to represent entities in a game session including, but not limited to, a player's character piece, a non-player character piece, an item, an objective, or any other representation needed as part of the game session.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 is further comprised of an aperture into which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structure 106 are configured to removably couple to the base 104. The removable coupling may be enabled through a mechanism such as a clip, or through friction and/or gravity as the at least one pylon structure 106 is inserted into the aperture 600. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are configured to removably couple with the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged in a symmetrical or asymmetrical pattern around the base structure 102, depending on the size and number of the pylons and base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a square pattern with a pylon at the corresponding corners of a cubic base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a pentagon pattern equally spaced around the center of a cylindrical base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged all or some on a specified side of the base structure 102. In some embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged to allow an object 110 such as a sculpture or model to seat on the base structure 102. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be placed on any location on the base 104 including the perimeter or in the center, depending on the needs of the user. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structures 106 are inserted into a channel 109 into the base 104, while in others they are attached to surface of the base 104 by an adhesive, peg, or other fastening mechanism.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures extend upward from the base structure 102, perpendicular to its largest plane. The pylons 106 may also extend upward at an angle so as to create a star shape or extend outward from the base structure 102 at a ninety-degree angle. The pylons 106 need not all be oriented in the exact same direction.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can include reference indicia that indicate which, if any, of the at least one pylon structures 106 should couple to the base structure 102 and how they should do so. These indicia may be, but are not limited to, written symbols or physical demarcations.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylinders, disks, cuboids, cones, pyramid, prisms, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The one or more tokens 108 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The one or more tokens 108 may have dimensions of one millimeter to two inches in width and height and length, and the channels 109 may have a diameter of one millimeter to two inches. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 is in the form of a cuboid with a hole bored through it and is removably couplable to the at least one pylon structure 106, which is in the shape of a polygon with a cylindrical pylon emerging from the base 104, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 through the one or more tokens 108 such that the one or more tokens 108 is held down against the base 104 of the base structure 102 by gravity and/or friction.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can come in different varieties or configurations with different shapes, sizes, colors, symbols, or attachment means to the base structure 102 or other pylon structures 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may have a token configuration whereby the channel 109 does not fully penetrate the token, creating a cap token. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a flange that corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a channel that corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may couple to the at least on pylon structure 106 through a variety of means including, but not limited to: by complimentary inputs with integrated clasps, by magnetic attachment, by a latch mechanism on either the base structure 102 or the at least one pylon structure 106, by temporary adhesive, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 into an alcove or slot on the base structure 102, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 or other extension from the base structure 102 into a hole or channel in the at least one pylon structure 106 as a peg-and-hole mechanism, by sliding a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106 into a flange on the base structure 102, by including a threading on the one or more tokens 108 and a corresponding threading on the at least one pylon structure 106 or vice versa. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple connection points which allow for the connection of multiple tokens 108 to each other, to the at least one pylon structure 106, or to the base structure 102. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple attachment methods or points such that the one or more tokens 108 can removably couple to the base structure 102 and/or the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise symbols including, but not limited to, letters or numbers to further facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of differing colors to facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of integrated lights or speakers which activate or deactivate based on coupling to the at least one pylon structure 106 or to the base structure 102.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 further comprises a computer processing component, one or more sensors, and one or more devices from the list including but not limited to, speakers or lights. In some embodiments, the computer processing component is configured to receive data from a sensor which provides information on what if anything is coupled to the at least one pylon structure 106. The computer processing component then interprets the data and can instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn of or change color; instruct a display to display information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 on a screen; instruct a communication device to send information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 to another device; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a sound or tone. In some embodiments, the game-piece article 100 further comprises an electronic communication interface that may be connected to the computer processor wherein the latter is configured to transmit information regarding a number and a type of the one or more tokens 108 coupled to at least one of the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments the game-piece article is further comprised of one or more tokens 108 which may take on a variety of polygonal shapes including but not limited to cubes, tori, pyramids, cylinders or hexagons. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 include a channel 109 through which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be configured to be inserted. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of a computer processor and sensor which is configured to communicate with other of the one or more tokens 108 wirelessly or through a direct connection. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise of one or more lights configured to activate or deactivate based on input from a computer processor located in the game-piece article or the game board. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a sensor or other activator that detects when it is connected with a at least one pylon structure 106 or one or more tokens 108 and activate a light or instruct a speaker to play a sound. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise a clip complementary to a clip located on the at least one pylon structure 106, the clip may be in a variety of configurations allowing for the token 108 to secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a channel 109 which may or may not be threaded which corresponds to a threading on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a flange which corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the token 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 comprise a channel 109 which corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the one or more tokens 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 have additional clips or clip-points configured to allow two of the one or more tokens to removably couple to each other. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are in the shape of a torus and are comprised of a channel 109 through which at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. The tokens 108 can be opaque, translucent, or partially thereof. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise additional configurations or varieties of token 108 to symbolize different information in the game session. In certain embodiments one variety of token 108 may be a toroid while another may be cuboid, or one may be cylindrical while another is pyramid shaped.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structure 106 further comprises a computer processing component which is configured to interpret data from attached sensors and communicate with other devices. In some embodiments, the computer processing component receives information from a detector which informs the computer processing component whether the at least one pylon structure 106 is attached to the base structure 102 or another pylon structure 106, and is able to provide the computer processing component with data from other pylon structures 106 or the base structure 102, and the computer processing component is able to interpret that data and can instruct an attached screen to turn on or off and/or display information based on that data; instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn off or change color; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a tone or sound.
FIG. 4 is a front view of a game-piece article 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a base structure 102 comprised of a base 104 and at least one pylon structure 106 coupled to the base structure 102 and projecting therefrom.
In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a metallic, pentagonal base structure 102 with at least one pylon structure 106 extending upward from its surface, and at least one or more cubic tokens 108 with channels 109 bored between two faces, removably couplable to the base structure 102 by insertion of the at least one pylon structure 106 of the base structure 102 through the channel 109.
In certain embodiments, the game-piece article 100 is used for the tracking of information as used in a board game or other physical entertainment medium, wherein the at least one pylon structure 106 is used to track information about player or automated characters, or any other information related to a game-piece article 100.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, or prismatic, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The base structure 102 may be shaped from the list including, but not limited to, square, circle, hexagon, arrow or triangle. The base structure 102 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The base structure 102 may have at least one or more pylon structures 106 extending out from itself to which the one or more tokens 108 may be coupled. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, crescent, or prismatic. The pylons may be in various configurations such as, but not limited to, the shape of a hook, or have bends in their structure to allow attached one or more tokens 108 to seat in the bend. The base structure 102 can be from one centimeter to three inches wide and long, and one centimeter to three inches tall. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be one centimeter to three inches tall, and one-half millimeter to two centimeters in radius.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 may be further comprised of an object 110 that is coupled to the base 104 to represent entities in a game session including, but not limited to, a player's character piece, a non-player character piece, an item, an objective, or any other representation needed as part of the game session.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 is further comprised of an aperture into which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structure 106 are configured to removably couple to the base 104. The removable coupling may be enabled through a mechanism such as a clip, or through friction and/or gravity as the at least one pylon structure 106 is inserted into the aperture 600. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are configured to removably couple with the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged in a symmetrical or asymmetrical pattern around the base structure 102, depending on the size and number of the pylons and base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a square pattern with a pylon at the corresponding corners of a cubic base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a pentagon pattern equally spaced around the center of a cylindrical base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged all or some on a specified side of the base structure 102. In some embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged to allow an object 110 such as a sculpture or model to seat on the base structure 102. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be placed on any location on the base 104 including the perimeter or in the center, depending on the needs of the user. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structures 106 are inserted into a channel 109 into the base 104, while in others they are attached to surface of the base 104 by an adhesive, peg, or other fastening mechanism.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures extend upward from the base structure 102, perpendicular to its largest plane. The pylons 106 may also extend upward at an angle so as to create a star shape or extend outward from the base structure 102 at a ninety-degree angle. The pylons 106 need not all be oriented in the exact same direction.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can include reference indicia that indicate which, if any, of the at least one pylon structures 106 should couple to the base structure 102 and how they should do so. These indicia may be, but are not limited to, written symbols or physical demarcations.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylinders, disks, cuboids, cones, pyramid, prisms, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The one or more tokens 108 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The one or more tokens 108 may have dimensions of one millimeter to two inches in width and height and length, and the channels 109 may have a diameter of one millimeter to two inches. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 is in the form of a cuboid with a hole bored through it and is removably couplable to the at least one pylon structure 106, which is in the shape of a polygon with a cylindrical pylon emerging from the base 104, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 through the one or more tokens 108 such that the one or more tokens 108 is held down against the base 104 of the base structure 102 by gravity and/or friction.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can come in different varieties or configurations with different shapes, sizes, colors, symbols, or attachment means to the base structure 102 or other pylon structures 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may have a token configuration whereby the channel 109 does not fully penetrate the token, creating a cap token. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a flange that corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a channel that corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may couple to the at least on pylon structure 106 through a variety of means including, but not limited to: by complimentary inputs with integrated clasps, by magnetic attachment, by a latch mechanism on either the base structure 102 or the at least one pylon structure 106, by temporary adhesive, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 into an alcove or slot on the base structure 102, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 or other extension from the base structure 102 into a hole or channel in the at least one pylon structure 106 as a peg-and-hole mechanism, by sliding a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106 into a flange on the base structure 102, by including a threading on the one or more tokens 108 and a corresponding threading on the at least one pylon structure 106 or vice versa. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple connection points which allow for the connection of multiple tokens 108 to each other, to the at least one pylon structure 106, or to the base structure 102. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple attachment methods or points such that the one or more tokens 108 can removably couple to the base structure 102 and/or the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise symbols including, but not limited to, letters or numbers to further facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of differing colors to facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of integrated lights or speakers which activate or deactivate based on coupling to the at least one pylon structure 106 or to the base structure 102.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 further comprises a computer processing component, one or more sensors, and one or more devices from the list including but not limited to, speakers or lights. In some embodiments, the computer processing component is configured to receive data from a sensor which provides information on what if anything is coupled to the at least one pylon structure 106. The computer processing component then interprets the data and can instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn of or change color; instruct a display to display information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 on a screen; instruct a communication device to send information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 to another device; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a sound or tone. In some embodiments, the game-piece article 100 further comprises an electronic communication interface that may be connected to the computer processor wherein the latter is configured to transmit information regarding a number and a type of the one or more tokens 108 coupled to at least one of the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments the game-piece article is further comprised of one or more tokens 108 which may take on a variety of polygonal shapes including but not limited to cubes, tori, pyramids, cylinders or hexagons. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 include a channel 109 through which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be configured to be inserted. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of a computer processor and sensor which is configured to communicate with other of the one or more tokens 108 wirelessly or through a direct connection. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise of one or more lights configured to activate or deactivate based on input from a computer processor located in the game-piece article or the game board. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a sensor or other activator that detects when it is connected with a at least one pylon structure 106 or one or more tokens 108 and activate a light or instruct a speaker to play a sound. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise a clip complementary to a clip located on the at least one pylon structure 106, the clip may be in a variety of configurations allowing for the token 108 to secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a channel 109 which may or may not be threaded which corresponds to a threading on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a flange which corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the token 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 comprise a channel 109 which corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the one or more tokens 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 have additional clips or clip-points configured to allow two of the one or more tokens to removably couple to each other. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are in the shape of a toms and are comprised of a channel 109 through which at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. The tokens 108 can be opaque, translucent, or partially thereof. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise additional configurations or varieties of token 108 to symbolize different information in the game session. In certain embodiments one variety of token 108 may be a toroid while another may be cuboid, or one may be cylindrical while another is pyramid shaped.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structure 106 further comprises a computer processing component which is configured to interpret data from attached sensors and communicate with other devices. In some embodiments, the computer processing component receives information from a detector which informs the computer processing component whether the at least one pylon structure 106 is attached to the base structure 102 or another pylon structure 106, and is able to provide the computer processing component with data from other pylon structures 106 or the base structure 102, and the computer processing component is able to interpret that data and can instruct an attached screen to turn on or off and/or display information based on that data; instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn of or change color; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a tone or sound.
FIG. 5 is a side view of a game-piece article 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a base structure 102 comprised of a base 104 and at least one pylon structure 106 coupled to the base structure 102 and projecting therefrom.
In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a metallic, pentagonal base structure 102 with at least one pylon structure 106 extending upward from its surface, and at least one or more cubic tokens 108 with channels 109 bored between two faces, removably couplable to the base structure 102 by insertion of the at least one pylon structure 106 of the base structure 102 through the channel 109.
In certain embodiments, the game-piece article 100 is used for the tracking of information as used in a board game or other physical entertainment medium, wherein the at least one pylon structure 106 is used to track information about player or automated characters, or any other information related to a game-piece article 100.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, or prismatic, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The base structure 102 may be shaped from the list including, but not limited to, square, circle, hexagon, arrow or triangle. The base structure 102 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The base structure 102 may have at least one or more pylon structures 106 extending out from itself to which the one or more tokens 108 may be coupled. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, crescent, or prismatic. The pylons may be in various configurations such as, but not limited to, the shape of a hook, or have bends in their structure to allow attached one or more tokens 108 to seat in the bend. The base structure 102 can be from one centimeter to three inches wide and long, and one centimeter to three inches tall. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be one centimeter to three inches tall, and one-half millimeter to two centimeters in radius.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 may be further comprised of an object 110 that is coupled to the base 104 to represent entities in a game session including, but not limited to, a player's character piece, a non-player character piece, an item, an objective, or any other representation needed as part of the game session.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 is further comprised of an aperture into which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structure 106 are configured to removably couple to the base 104. The removable coupling may be enabled through a mechanism such as a clip, or through friction and/or gravity as the at least one pylon structure 106 is inserted into the aperture 600. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are configured to removably couple with the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged in a symmetrical or asymmetrical pattern around the base structure 102, depending on the size and number of the pylons and base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a square pattern with a pylon at the corresponding corners of a cubic base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a pentagon pattern equally spaced around the center of a cylindrical base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged all or some on a specified side of the base structure 102. In some embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged to allow an object 110 such as a sculpture or model to seat on the base structure 102. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be placed on any location on the base 104 including the perimeter or in the center, depending on the needs of the user. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structures 106 are inserted into a channel 109 into the base 104, while in others they are attached to surface of the base 104 by an adhesive, peg, or other fastening mechanism.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures extend upward from the base structure 102, perpendicular to its largest plane. The pylons 106 may also extend upward at an angle so as to create a star shape or extend outward from the base structure 102 at a ninety-degree angle. The pylons 106 need not all be oriented in the exact same direction.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can include reference indicia that indicate which, if any, of the at least one pylon structures 106 should couple to the base structure 102 and how they should do so. These indicia may be, but are not limited to, written symbols or physical demarcations.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylinders, disks, cuboids, cones, pyramid, prisms, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The one or more tokens 108 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The one or more tokens 108 may have dimensions of one millimeter to two inches in width and height and length, and the channels 109 may have a diameter of one millimeter to two inches. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 is in the form of a cuboid with a hole bored through it and is removably couplable to the at least one pylon structure 106, which is in the shape of a polygon with a cylindrical pylon emerging from the base 104, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 through the one or more tokens 108 such that the one or more tokens 108 is held down against the base 104 of the base structure 102 by gravity and/or friction.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can come in different varieties or configurations with different shapes, sizes, colors, symbols, or attachment means to the base structure 102 or other pylon structures 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may have a token configuration whereby the channel 109 does not fully penetrate the token, creating a cap token. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a flange that corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a channel that corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may couple to the at least on pylon structure 106 through a variety of means including, but not limited to: by complimentary inputs with integrated clasps, by magnetic attachment, by a latch mechanism on either the base structure 102 or the at least one pylon structure 106, by temporary adhesive, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 into an alcove or slot on the base structure 102, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 or other extension from the base structure 102 into a hole or channel in the at least one pylon structure 106 as a peg-and-hole mechanism, by sliding a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106 into a flange on the base structure 102, by including a threading on the one or more tokens 108 and a corresponding threading on the at least one pylon structure 106 or vice versa. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple connection points which allow for the connection of multiple tokens 108 to each other, to the at least one pylon structure 106, or to the base structure 102. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple attachment methods or points such that the one or more tokens 108 can removably couple to the base structure 102 and/or the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise symbols including, but not limited to, letters or numbers to further facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of differing colors to facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of integrated lights or speakers which activate or deactivate based on coupling to the at least one pylon structure 106 or to the base structure 102.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 further comprises a computer processing component, one or more sensors, and one or more devices from the list including but not limited to, speakers or lights. In some embodiments, the computer processing component is configured to receive data from a sensor which provides information on what if anything is coupled to the at least one pylon structure 106. The computer processing component then interprets the data and can instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn of or change color; instruct a display to display information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 on a screen; instruct a communication device to send information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 to another device; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a sound or tone. In some embodiments, the game-piece article 100 further comprises an electronic communication interface that may be connected to the computer processor wherein the latter is configured to transmit information regarding a number and a type of the one or more tokens 108 coupled to at least one of the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments the game-piece article is further comprised of one or more tokens 108 which may take on a variety of polygonal shapes including but not limited to cubes, tori, pyramids, cylinders or hexagons. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 include a channel 109 through which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be configured to be inserted. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of a computer processor and sensor which is configured to communicate with other of the one or more tokens 108 wirelessly or through a direct connection. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise of one or more lights configured to activate or deactivate based on input from a computer processor located in the game-piece article or the game board. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a sensor or other activator that detects when it is connected with a at least one pylon structure 106 or one or more tokens 108 and activate a light or instruct a speaker to play a sound. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise a clip complementary to a clip located on the at least one pylon structure 106, the clip may be in a variety of configurations allowing for the token 108 to secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a channel 109 which may or may not be threaded which corresponds to a threading on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a flange which corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the token 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 comprise a channel 109 which corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the one or more tokens 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 have additional clips or clip-points configured to allow two of the one or more tokens to removably couple to each other. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are in the shape of a toms and are comprised of a channel 109 through which at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. The tokens 108 can be opaque, translucent, or partially thereof. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise additional configurations or varieties of token 108 to symbolize different information in the game session. In certain embodiments one variety of token 108 may be a toroid while another may be cuboid, or one may be cylindrical while another is pyramid shaped.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structure 106 further comprises a computer processing component which is configured to interpret data from attached sensors and communicate with other devices. In some embodiments, the computer processing component receives information from a detector which informs the computer processing component whether the at least one pylon structure 106 is attached to the base structure 102 or another pylon structure 106, and is able to provide the computer processing component with data from other pylon structures 106 or the base structure 102, and the computer processing component is able to interpret that data and can instruct an attached screen to turn on or off and/or display information based on that data; instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn of or change color; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a tone or sound.
FIG. 6 is a top down view of a game-piece article 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a base structure 102 comprised of a base 104 and at least one pylon structure 106 coupled to the base structure 102 and projecting therefrom.
In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a metallic, pentagonal base structure 102 with at least one pylon structure 106 extending upward from its surface, and at least one or more cubic tokens 108 with channels 109 bored between two faces, removably couplable to the base structure 102 by insertion of the at least one pylon structure 106 of the base structure 102 through the channel 109.
In certain embodiments, the game-piece article 100 is used for the tracking of information as used in a board game or other physical entertainment medium, wherein the at least one pylon structure 106 is used to track information about player or automated characters, or any other information related to a game-piece article 100.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, or prismatic, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The base structure 102 may be shaped from the list including, but not limited to, square, circle, hexagon, arrow or triangle. The base structure 102 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The base structure 102 may have at least one or more pylon structures 106 extending out from itself to which the one or more tokens 108 may be coupled. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, crescent, or prismatic. The pylons may be in various configurations such as, but not limited to, the shape of a hook, or have bends in their structure to allow attached one or more tokens 108 to seat in the bend. The base structure 102 can be from one centimeter to three inches wide and long, and one centimeter to three inches tall. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be one centimeter to three inches tall, and one-half millimeter to two centimeters in radius.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 may be further comprised of an object 110 that is coupled to the base 104 to represent entities in a game session including, but not limited to, a player's character piece, a non-player character piece, an item, an objective, or any other representation needed as part of the game session
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 is further comprised of an aperture 600 into which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structure 106 are configured to removably couple to the base 104. The removable coupling may be enabled through a mechanism such as a clip, or through friction and/or gravity as the at least one pylon structure 106 is inserted into the aperture 600. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are configured to removably couple with the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged in a symmetrical or asymmetrical pattern around the base structure 102, depending on the size and number of the pylons and base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a square pattern with a pylon at the corresponding corners of a cubic base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a pentagon pattern equally spaced around the center of a cylindrical base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged all or some on a specified side of the base structure 102. In some embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged to allow an object 110 such as a sculpture or model to seat on the base structure 102. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be placed on any location on the base 104 including the perimeter or in the center, depending on the needs of the user. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structures 106 are inserted into a channel 109 into the base 104, while in others they are attached to surface of the base 104 by an adhesive, peg, or other fastening mechanism.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures extend upward from the base structure 102, perpendicular to its largest plane. The pylons 106 may also extend upward at an angle so as to create a star shape or extend outward from the base structure 102 at a ninety-degree angle. The pylons 106 need not all be oriented in the exact same direction.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can include reference indicia that indicate which, if any, of the at least one pylon structures 106 should couple to the base structure 102 and how they should do so. These indicia may be, but are not limited to, written symbols or physical demarcations.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylinders, disks, cuboids, cones, pyramid, prisms, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The one or more tokens 108 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The one or more tokens 108 may have dimensions of one millimeter to two inches in width and height and length, and the channels 109 may have a diameter of one millimeter to two inches. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 is in the form of a cuboid with a hole bored through it and is removably couplable to the at least one pylon structure 106, which is in the shape of a polygon with a cylindrical pylon emerging from the base 104, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 through the one or more tokens 108 such that the one or more tokens 108 is held down against the base 104 of the base structure 102 by gravity and/or friction.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can come in different varieties or configurations with different shapes, sizes, colors, symbols, or attachment means to the base structure 102 or other pylon structures 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may have a token configuration whereby the channel 109 does not fully penetrate the token, creating a cap token. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a flange that corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a channel that corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may couple to the at least on pylon structure 106 through a variety of means including, but not limited to: by complimentary inputs with integrated clasps, by magnetic attachment, by a latch mechanism on either the base structure 102 or the at least one pylon structure 106, by temporary adhesive, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 into an alcove or slot on the base structure 102, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 or other extension from the base structure 102 into a hole or channel in the at least one pylon structure 106 as a peg-and-hole mechanism, by sliding a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106 into a flange on the base structure 102, by including a threading on the one or more tokens 108 and a corresponding threading on the at least one pylon structure 106 or vice versa. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple connection points which allow for the connection of multiple tokens 108 to each other, to the at least one pylon structure 106, or to the base structure 102. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple attachment methods or points such that the one or more tokens 108 can removably couple to the base structure 102 and/or the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise symbols including, but not limited to, letters or numbers to further facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of differing colors to facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of integrated lights or speakers which activate or deactivate based on coupling to the at least one pylon structure 106 or to the base structure 102.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 further comprises a computer processing component, one or more sensors, and one or more devices from the list including but not limited to, speakers or lights. In some embodiments, the computer processing component is configured to receive data from a sensor which provides information on what if anything is coupled to the at least one pylon structure 106. The computer processing component then interprets the data and can instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn of or change color; instruct a display to display information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 on a screen; instruct a communication device to send information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 to another device; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a sound or tone. In some embodiments, the game-piece article 100 further comprises an electronic communication interface that may be connected to the computer processor wherein the latter is configured to transmit information regarding a number and a type of the one or more tokens 108 coupled to at least one of the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments the game-piece article is further comprised of one or more tokens 108 which may take on a variety of polygonal shapes including but not limited to cubes, tori, pyramids, cylinders or hexagons. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 include a channel 109 through which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be configured to be inserted. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of a computer processor and sensor which is configured to communicate with other of the one or more tokens 108 wirelessly or through a direct connection. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise of one or more lights configured to activate or deactivate based on input from a computer processor located in the game-piece article or the game board. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a sensor or other activator that detects when it is connected with a at least one pylon structure 106 or one or more tokens 108 and activate a light or instruct a speaker to play a sound. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise a clip complementary to a clip located on the at least one pylon structure 106, the clip may be in a variety of configurations allowing for the token 108 to secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a channel 109 which may or may not be threaded which corresponds to a threading on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a flange which corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the token 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 comprise a channel 109 which corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the one or more tokens 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 have additional clips or clip-points configured to allow two of the one or more tokens to removably couple to each other. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are in the shape of a toms and are comprised of a channel 109 through which at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. The tokens 108 can be opaque, translucent, or partially thereof. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise additional configurations or varieties of token 108 to symbolize different information in the game session. In certain embodiments one variety of token 108 may be a toroid while another may be cuboid, or one may be cylindrical while another is pyramid shaped.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structure 106 further comprises a computer processing component which is configured to interpret data from attached sensors and communicate with other devices. In some embodiments, the computer processing component receives information from a detector which informs the computer processing component whether the at least one pylon structure 106 is attached to the base structure 102 or another pylon structure 106, and is able to provide the computer processing component with data from other pylon structures 106 or the base structure 102, and the computer processing component is able to interpret that data and can instruct an attached screen to turn on or off and/or display information based on that data; instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn off or change color; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a tone or sound.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a game-piece article 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a base structure 102 comprised of a base 104 and at least one pylon structure 106 coupled to the base structure 102 and projecting therefrom.
In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a metallic, pentagonal base structure 102 with at least one pylon structure 106 extending upward from its surface, and at least one or more cubic tokens 108 with channels 109 bored between two faces, removably couplable to the base structure 102 by insertion of the at least one pylon structure 106 of the base structure 102 through the channel 109.
In certain embodiments, the game-piece article 100 is used for the tracking of information as used in a board game or other physical entertainment medium, wherein the at least one pylon structure 106 is used to track information about player or automated characters, or any other information related to a game-piece article 100.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, or prismatic, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The base structure 102 may be shaped from the list including, but not limited to, square, circle, hexagon, arrow or triangle. The base structure 102 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The base structure 102 may have at least one or more pylon structures 106 extending out from itself to which the one or more tokens 108 may be coupled. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, crescent, or prismatic. The pylons may be in various configurations such as, but not limited to, the shape of a hook, or have bends in their structure to allow attached one or more tokens 108 to seat in the bend. The base structure 102 can be from one centimeter to three inches wide and long, and one centimeter to three inches tall. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be one centimeter to three inches tall, and one-half millimeter to two centimeters in radius.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 may be further comprised of an object 110 that is coupled to the base 104 to represent entities in a game session including, but not limited to, a player's character piece, a non-player character piece, an item, an objective, or any other representation needed as part of the game session.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 is further comprised of an aperture 600 into which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structure 106 are configured to removably couple to the base 104. The removable coupling may be enabled through a mechanism such as a clip, or through friction and/or gravity as the at least one pylon structure 106 is inserted into the aperture 600. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are configured to removably couple with the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged in a symmetrical or asymmetrical pattern around the base structure 102, depending on the size and number of the pylons and base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a square pattern with a pylon at the corresponding corners of a cubic base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a pentagon pattern equally spaced around the center of a cylindrical base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged all or some on a specified side of the base structure 102. In some embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged to allow an object 110 such as a sculpture or model to seat on the base structure 102. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be placed on any location on the base 104 including the perimeter or in the center, depending on the needs of the user. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structures 106 are inserted into a channel 109 into the base 104, while in others they are attached to surface of the base 104 by an adhesive, peg, or other fastening mechanism.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures extend upward from the base structure 102, perpendicular to its largest plane. The pylons 106 may also extend upward at an angle so as to create a star shape or extend outward from the base structure 102 at a ninety-degree angle. The pylons 106 need not all be oriented in the exact same direction.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can include reference indicia that indicate which, if any, of the at least one pylon structures 106 should couple to the base structure 102 and how they should do so. These indicia may be, but are not limited to, written symbols or physical demarcations.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylinders, disks, cuboids, cones, pyramid, prisms, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The one or more tokens 108 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The one or more tokens 108 may have dimensions of one millimeter to two inches in width and height and length, and the channels 109 may have a diameter of one millimeter to two inches. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 is in the form of a cuboid with a hole bored through it and is removably couplable to the at least one pylon structure 106, which is in the shape of a polygon with a cylindrical pylon emerging from the base 104, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 through the one or more tokens 108 such that the one or more tokens 108 is held down against the base 104 of the base structure 102 by gravity and/or friction.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can come in different varieties or configurations with different shapes, sizes, colors, symbols, or attachment means to the base structure 102 or other pylon structures 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may have a token configuration whereby the channel 109 does not fully penetrate the token, creating a cap token. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a flange that corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a channel that corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may couple to the at least on pylon structure 106 through a variety of means including, but not limited to: by complimentary inputs with integrated clasps, by magnetic attachment, by a latch mechanism on either the base structure 102 or the at least one pylon structure 106, by temporary adhesive, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 into an alcove or slot on the base structure 102, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 or other extension from the base structure 102 into a hole or channel in the at least one pylon structure 106 as a peg-and-hole mechanism, by sliding a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106 into a flange on the base structure 102, by including a threading on the one or more tokens 108 and a corresponding threading on the at least one pylon structure 106 or vice versa. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple connection points which allow for the connection of multiple tokens 108 to each other, to the at least one pylon structure 106, or to the base structure 102. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple attachment methods or points such that the one or more tokens 108 can removably couple to the base structure 102 and/or the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise symbols including, but not limited to, letters or numbers to further facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of differing colors to facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of integrated lights or speakers which activate or deactivate based on coupling to the at least one pylon structure 106 or to the base structure 102.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 further comprises a computer processing component, one or more sensors, and one or more devices from the list including but not limited to, speakers or lights. In some embodiments, the computer processing component is configured to receive data from a sensor which provides information on what if anything is coupled to the at least one pylon structure 106. The computer processing component then interprets the data and can instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn of or change color; instruct a display to display information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 on a screen; instruct a communication device to send information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 to another device; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a sound or tone. In some embodiments, the game-piece article 100 further comprises an electronic communication interface that may be connected to the computer processor wherein the latter is configured to transmit information regarding a number and a type of the one or more tokens 108 coupled to at least one of the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments the game-piece article is further comprised of one or more tokens 108 which may take on a variety of polygonal shapes including but not limited to cubes, tori, pyramids, cylinders or hexagons. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 include a channel 109 through which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be configured to be inserted. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of a computer processor and sensor which is configured to communicate with other of the one or more tokens 108 wirelessly or through a direct connection. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise of one or more lights configured to activate or deactivate based on input from a computer processor located in the game-piece article or the game board. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a sensor or other activator that detects when it is connected with a at least one pylon structure 106 or one or more tokens 108 and activate a light or instruct a speaker to play a sound. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise a clip complementary to a clip located on the at least one pylon structure 106, the clip may be in a variety of configurations allowing for the token 108 to secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a channel 109 which may or may not be threaded which corresponds to a threading on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a flange which corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the token 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 comprise a channel 109 which corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the one or more tokens 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 have additional clips or clip-points configured to allow two of the one or more tokens to removably couple to each other. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are in the shape of a torus and are comprised of a channel 109 through which at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. The tokens 108 can be opaque, translucent, or partially thereof. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise additional configurations or varieties of token 108 to symbolize different information in the game session. In certain embodiments one variety of token 108 may be a toroid while another may be cuboid, or one may be cylindrical while another is pyramid shaped.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structure 106 further comprises a computer processing component which is configured to interpret data from attached sensors and communicate with other devices. In some embodiments, the computer processing component receives information from a detector which informs the computer processing component whether the at least one pylon structure 106 is attached to the base structure 102 or another pylon structure 106, and is able to provide the computer processing component with data from other pylon structures 106 or the base structure 102, and the computer processing component is able to interpret that data and can instruct an attached screen to turn on or off and/or display information based on that data; instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn off or change color; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a tone or sound.
FIG. 8 is a top down view of a game-piece article 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a base structure 102 comprised of a base 104 and at least one pylon structure 106 coupled to the base structure 102 and projecting therefrom.
In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a metallic, pentagonal base structure 102 with at least one pylon structure 106 extending upward from its surface, and at least one or more cubic tokens 108 with channels 109 bored between two faces, removably couplable to the base structure 102 by insertion of the at least one pylon structure 106 of the base structure 102 through the channel 109.
In certain embodiments, the game-piece article 100 is used for the tracking of information as used in a board game or other physical entertainment medium, wherein the at least one pylon structure 106 is used to track information about player or automated characters, or any other information related to a game-piece article 100.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, or prismatic, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The base structure 102 may be shaped from the list including, but not limited to, square, circle, hexagon, arrow or triangle. The base structure 102 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The base structure 102 may have at least one or more pylon structures 106 extending out from itself to which the one or more tokens 108 may be coupled. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, crescent, or prismatic. The pylons may be in various configurations such as, but not limited to, the shape of a hook, or have bends in their structure to allow attached one or more tokens 108 to seat in the bend. The base structure 102 can be from one centimeter to three inches wide and long, and one centimeter to three inches tall. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be one centimeter to three inches tall, and one-half millimeter to two centimeters in radius.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 may be further comprised of an object that is coupled to the base 104 to represent entities in a game session including, but not limited to, a player's character piece, a non-player character piece, an item, an objective, or any other representation needed as part of the game session.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 is further comprised of an aperture 600 into which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structure 106 are configured to removably couple to the base 104. The removable coupling may be enabled through a mechanism such as a clip, or through friction and/or gravity as the at least one pylon structure 106 is inserted into the aperture 600. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are configured to removably couple with the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged in a symmetrical or asymmetrical pattern around the base structure 102, depending on the size and number of the pylons and base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a square pattern with a pylon at the corresponding corners of a cubic base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a pentagon pattern equally spaced around the center of a cylindrical base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged all or some on a specified side of the base structure 102. In some embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged to allow an object 110 such as a sculpture or model to seat on the base structure 102. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be placed on any location on the base 104 including the perimeter or in the center, depending on the needs of the user. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structures 106 are inserted into a channel 109 into the base 104, while in others they are attached to surface of the base 104 by an adhesive, peg, or other fastening mechanism.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures extend upward from the base structure 102, perpendicular to its largest plane. The pylons 106 may also extend upward at an angle so as to create a star shape or extend outward from the base structure 102 at a ninety-degree angle. The pylons 106 need not all be oriented in the exact same direction.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can include reference indicia that indicate which, if any, of the at least one pylon structures 106 should couple to the base structure 102 and how they should do so. These indicia may be, but are not limited to, written symbols or physical demarcations.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylinders, disks, cuboids, cones, pyramid, prisms, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The one or more tokens 108 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The one or more tokens 108 may have dimensions of one millimeter to two inches in width and height and length, and the channels 109 may have a diameter of one millimeter to two inches. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 is in the form of a cuboid with a hole bored through it and is removably couplable to the at least one pylon structure 106, which is in the shape of a polygon with a cylindrical pylon emerging from the base 104, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 through the one or more tokens 108 such that the one or more tokens 108 is held down against the base 104 of the base structure 102 by gravity and/or friction.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can come in different varieties or configurations with different shapes, sizes, colors, symbols, or attachment means to the base structure 102 or other pylon structures 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may have a token configuration whereby the channel 109 does not fully penetrate the token, creating a cap token. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a flange that corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a channel that corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may couple to the at least on pylon structure 106 through a variety of means including, but not limited to: by complimentary inputs with integrated clasps, by magnetic attachment, by a latch mechanism on either the base structure 102 or the at least one pylon structure 106, by temporary adhesive, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 into an alcove or slot on the base structure 102, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 or other extension from the base structure 102 into a hole or channel in the at least one pylon structure 106 as a peg-and-hole mechanism, by sliding a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106 into a flange on the base structure 102, by including a threading on the one or more tokens 108 and a corresponding threading on the at least one pylon structure 106 or vice versa. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple connection points which allow for the connection of multiple tokens 108 to each other, to the at least one pylon structure 106, or to the base structure 102. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple attachment methods or points such that the one or more tokens 108 can removably couple to the base structure 102 and/or the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise symbols including, but not limited to, letters or numbers to further facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of differing colors to facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of integrated lights or speakers which activate or deactivate based on coupling to the at least one pylon structure 106 or to the base structure 102.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 further comprises a computer processing component, one or more sensors, and one or more devices from the list including but not limited to, speakers or lights. In some embodiments, the computer processing component is configured to receive data from a sensor which provides information on what if anything is coupled to the at least one pylon structure 106. The computer processing component then interprets the data and can instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn of or change color; instruct a display to display information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 on a screen; instruct a communication device to send information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 to another device; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a sound or tone. In some embodiments, the game-piece article 100 further comprises an electronic communication interface that may be connected to the computer processor wherein the latter is configured to transmit information regarding a number and a type of the one or more tokens 108 coupled to at least one of the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments the game-piece article is further comprised of one or more tokens 108 which may take on a variety of polygonal shapes including but not limited to cubes, tori, pyramids, cylinders or hexagons. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 include a channel 109 through which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be configured to be inserted. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of a computer processor and sensor which is configured to communicate with other of the one or more tokens 108 wirelessly or through a direct connection. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise of one or more lights configured to activate or deactivate based on input from a computer processor located in the game-piece article or the game board. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a sensor or other activator that detects when it is connected with a at least one pylon structure 106 or one or more tokens 108 and activate a light or instruct a speaker to play a sound. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise a clip complementary to a clip located on the at least one pylon structure 106, the clip may be in a variety of configurations allowing for the token 108 to secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a channel 109 which may or may not be threaded which corresponds to a threading on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a flange which corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the token 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 comprise a channel 109 which corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the one or more tokens 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 have additional clips or clip-points configured to allow two of the one or more tokens to removably couple to each other. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are in the shape of a toms and are comprised of a channel 109 through which at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. The tokens 108 can be opaque, translucent, or partially thereof. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise additional configurations or varieties of token 108 to symbolize different information in the game session. In certain embodiments one variety of token 108 may be a toroid while another may be cuboid, or one may be cylindrical while another is pyramid shaped.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structure 106 further comprises a computer processing component which is configured to interpret data from attached sensors and communicate with other devices. In some embodiments, the computer processing component receives information from a detector which informs the computer processing component whether the at least one pylon structure 106 is attached to the base structure 102 or another pylon structure 106, and is able to provide the computer processing component with data from other pylon structures 106 or the base structure 102, and the computer processing component is able to interpret that data and can instruct an attached screen to turn on or off and/or display information based on that data; instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn off, or change color; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a tone or sound.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a game-piece article 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a base structure 102 comprised of a base 104 and at least one pylon structure 106 coupled to the base structure 102 and projecting therefrom.
In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a metallic, pentagonal base structure 102 with at least one pylon structure 106 extending upward from its surface, and at least one or more cubic tokens 108 with channels 109 bored between two faces, removably couplable to the base structure 102 by insertion of the at least one pylon structure 106 of the base structure 102 through the channel 109.
In certain embodiments, the game-piece article 100 is used for the tracking of information as used in a board game or other physical entertainment medium, wherein the at least one pylon structure 106 is used to track information about player or automated characters, or any other information related to a game-piece article 100.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, or prismatic, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The base structure 102 may be shaped from the list including, but not limited to, square, circle, hexagon, arrow or triangle. The base structure 102 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The base structure 102 may have at least one or more pylon structures 106 extending out from itself to which the one or more tokens 108 may be coupled. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylindrical, semi-spherical, spherical dome, pyramidal, polygonal, cuboid, conical, crescent, or prismatic. The pylons may be in various configurations such as, but not limited to, the shape of a hook, or have bends in their structure to allow attached one or more tokens 108 to seat in the bend. The base structure 102 can be from one centimeter to three inches wide and long, and one centimeter to three inches tall. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be one centimeter to three inches tall, and one-half millimeter to two centimeters in radius.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 may be further comprised of an object that is coupled to the base 104 to represent entities in a game session including, but not limited to, a player's character piece, a non-player character piece, an item, an objective, or any other representation needed as part of the game session.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 is further comprised of an aperture 600 into which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structure 106 are configured to removably couple to the base 104. The removable coupling may be enabled through a mechanism such as a clip, or through friction and/or gravity as the at least one pylon structure 106 is inserted into the aperture 600. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are configured to removably couple with the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged in a symmetrical or asymmetrical pattern around the base structure 102, depending on the size and number of the pylons and base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a square pattern with a pylon at the corresponding corners of a cubic base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged in a pentagon pattern equally spaced around the center of a cylindrical base structure 102. The pylons may be arranged all or some on a specified side of the base structure 102. In some embodiments, the at least one pylon structures 106 are arranged to allow an object 110 such as a sculpture or model to seat on the base structure 102. The at least one pylon structures 106 may be placed on any location on the base 104 including the perimeter or in the center, depending on the needs of the user. In some embodiments the at least one pylon structures 106 are inserted into a channel 109 into the base 104, while in others they are attached to surface of the base 104 by an adhesive, peg, or other fastening mechanism.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structures extend upward from the base structure 102, perpendicular to its largest plane. The pylons 106 may also extend upward at an angle so as to create a star shape or extend outward from the base structure 102 at a ninety-degree angle. The pylons 106 need not all be oriented in the exact same direction.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 can include reference indicia that indicate which, if any, of the at least one pylon structures 106 should couple to the base structure 102 and how they should do so. These indicia may be, but are not limited to, written symbols or physical demarcations.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of various polygonal shapes including but not limited to: cylinders, disks, cuboids, cones, pyramid, prisms, or any other contiguous or non-contiguous polygon. The one or more tokens 108 can be made of any solid material, including but not limited to: metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or stone. The one or more tokens 108 may have dimensions of one millimeter to two inches in width and height and length, and the channels 109 may have a diameter of one millimeter to two inches. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 is in the form of a cuboid with a hole bored through it and is removably couplable to the at least one pylon structure 106, which is in the shape of a polygon with a cylindrical pylon emerging from the base 104, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 through the one or more tokens 108 such that the one or more tokens 108 is held down against the base 104 of the base structure 102 by gravity and/or friction.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can come in different varieties or configurations with different shapes, sizes, colors, symbols, or attachment means to the base structure 102 or other pylon structures 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may have a token configuration whereby the channel 109 does not fully penetrate the token, creating a cap token. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a flange that corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 are further comprised of a channel that corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may couple to the at least on pylon structure 106 through a variety of means including, but not limited to: by complimentary inputs with integrated clasps, by magnetic attachment, by a latch mechanism on either the base structure 102 or the at least one pylon structure 106, by temporary adhesive, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 into an alcove or slot on the base structure 102, by inserting the at least one pylon structure 106 or other extension from the base structure 102 into a hole or channel in the at least one pylon structure 106 as a peg-and-hole mechanism, by sliding a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106 into a flange on the base structure 102, by including a threading on the one or more tokens 108 and a corresponding threading on the at least one pylon structure 106 or vice versa. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple connection points which allow for the connection of multiple tokens 108 to each other, to the at least one pylon structure 106, or to the base structure 102. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 includes multiple attachment methods or points such that the one or more tokens 108 can removably couple to the base structure 102 and/or the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise symbols including, but not limited to, letters or numbers to further facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 can be of differing colors to facilitate the tracking of data. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of integrated lights or speakers which activate or deactivate based on coupling to the at least one pylon structure 106 or to the base structure 102.
In certain embodiments, the base structure 102 further comprises a computer processing component, one or more sensors, and one or more devices from the list including but not limited to, speakers or lights. In some embodiments, the computer processing component is configured to receive data from a sensor which provides information on what if anything is coupled to the at least one pylon structure 106. The computer processing component then interprets the data and can instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn of or change color; instruct a display to display information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 on a screen; instruct a communication device to send information regarding the attached at least one pylon structure 106 to another device; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a sound or tone. In some embodiments, the game-piece article 100 further comprises an electronic communication interface that may be connected to the computer processor wherein the latter is configured to transmit information regarding a number and a type of the one or more tokens 108 coupled to at least one of the at least one pylon structures 106.
In certain embodiments the game-piece article is further comprised of one or more tokens 108 which may take on a variety of polygonal shapes including but not limited to cubes, tori, pyramids, cylinders or hexagons. In some embodiments the one or more tokens 108 include a channel 109 through which the at least one pylon structure 106 may be configured to be inserted. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may be further comprised of a computer processor and sensor which is configured to communicate with other of the one or more tokens 108 wirelessly or through a direct connection. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise of one or more lights configured to activate or deactivate based on input from a computer processor located in the game-piece article or the game board. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a sensor or other activator that detects when it is connected with a at least one pylon structure 106 or one or more tokens 108 and activate a light or instruct a speaker to play a sound. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 may further comprise a clip complementary to a clip located on the at least one pylon structure 106, the clip may be in a variety of configurations allowing for the token 108 to secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In some embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a channel 109 which may or may not be threaded which corresponds to a threading on the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 further comprise a flange which corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the token 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 comprise a channel 109 which corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure 106, enabling the one or more tokens 108 to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure 106. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 have additional clips or clip-points configured to allow two of the one or more tokens to removably couple to each other. In certain embodiments the one or more tokens 108 are in the shape of a toms and are comprised of a channel 109 through which at least one pylon structure 106 may be inserted. The tokens 108 can be opaque, translucent, or partially thereof. In certain embodiments, the one or more tokens 108 further comprise additional configurations or varieties of token 108 to symbolize different information in the game session. In certain embodiments one variety of token 108 may be a toroid while another may be cuboid, or one may be cylindrical while another is pyramid shaped.
In certain embodiments, the at least one pylon structure 106 further comprises a computer processing component which is configured to interpret data from attached sensors and communicate with other devices. In some embodiments, the computer processing component receives information from a detector which informs the computer processing component whether the at least one pylon structure 106 is attached to the base structure 102 or another pylon structure 106, and is able to provide the computer processing component with data from other pylon structures 106 or the base structure 102, and the computer processing component is able to interpret that data and can instruct an attached screen to turn on or off and/or display information based on that data; instruct one or more attached lights to turn on, turn off or change color; and/or instruct one or more attached speakers to play a tone or sound.
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a game-board system 1000, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, a game-piece article 100 comprises, but is not limited to, a base structure comprised of a base and at least one pylon structure coupled to the base structure and projecting therefrom.
In certain embodiments, the invention comprises a game-board system 1000 which comprises, at least one game-piece article 100 comprising; a base structure 102 comprised of a base 104 at least one pylon structure 106 coupled to the base structure 102 and projecting therefrom; and one or more tokens 108 configured to removably couple to the at least one pylon structure 106; a game-board article 1002 comprising; at least one substantially flat game board 1004 marked with at least one polygonal zone 1006 large enough to contain at least one game-piece article 100 for a player to place a player-controlled game piece and at least one polygonal zone 1006 large enough to contain at least one game-piece article 100 for a player to place a non-player-controlled game piece; and a storage area for the at least one game-piece article 100.
In certain embodiments, the game board 1004 ranges in size from two inches to three feet in width and/or length, and anywhere from 0.002 to six inches in height.
In certain embodiments the at least one polygonal zone 1006 ranges in size from one centimeter to three inches in width and length with a height corresponding to the height of the game board 1004. In some embodiments the game board 1004 may vary in height at different points, with some areas being taller or shorter than others. In some embodiments, the at least one polygonal zones 1006 may vary in height with some being taller or shorter than others. The variation in height may be uniform across the at least one polygonal zones 1006 or it may not be and instead be characterized by a gradient, division, or irregular shape.
In certain embodiments the storage area for the at least one game-piece article 100 is further comprised of a container with at least one opening. In certain embodiments the container is comprised of a polygonal shape with an internal cavity configured to receive and store at least one of the at least one game-piece articles 100 and/or tokens 108.
In certain embodiments the game-board article 1002 is comprised of one or more sections 1100. These sections 1100 may take on a variety of two or three-dimensional shapes, including, but not limited to, squares, rectangles, pyramids, circles, and/or hexagons, or a combination thereof. These sections 1100 may be made up of smaller polygons such as a section 1100 that is made up of connected hexagons or squares, which may be removably coupled with other sections 1100 to form a modular game board 1004 or may form a larger board when placed adjacent to each other. In some embodiments these sections 1100 may be connected in various configurations to generate a variety of shapes. In certain embodiments, these sections 1100 may removably couple through a variety of means including, but not limited to, clips, interlocking flanges, friction, magnetically, and/or through pegs and slots.
In certain embodiments the game-board article 1002 further comprises electronic components including, but not limited to, one or more computer processors, electronic communication interfaces, and/or one or more sensors. The computer processor may be configured to detect the position of the at least one game-piece article 100 and/or when the one or more tokens 108 are coupled to at least one or more of the at least one pylon structures 106 using the one or more sensors. In some embodiments there may be an associated display or electronic communication interface with the game board 1004 which the computer processor may instruct to display information about the state of the game session including but not limited to information regarding the position of the one or more game-piece articles 100, what and how many of the one or more tokens 108 are coupled to the one or more pylon structures 106, allow for user input and navigation of information, or other information relevant to the game session. In certain embodiments the game-board article 1002 further comprises one or more speakers which may be instructed by the computer processor to make one or more sounds to convey information about the game or in response to events occurring related to the game. The sounds may include, but are not limited to, information about the game session, the position of the one or more game-piece articles 100, what and how many of the one or more tokens 108 are coupled to the one or more pylon structures 106. In certain embodiments the game-board article 1002 further comprises one or more lights that the computer processor may instruct to activate or deactivate based on information from the sensors or another input. The lights may be configured to activate based on certain game states, indicating things including but not limited to, the position of the one or more game-piece articles 100, the addition or removal of the one or more tokens 108 from the one or more pylon structures 106, or in response to other events related to the game session. The one or more lights may be of different, or changing, colors, opacities or shapes to indicate different information or states in the game session.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a game-board system 1000, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In certain embodiments, the invention comprises a game-board system 1000 which comprises, at least one game-piece article 100 comprising; a base structure 102 comprised of a base 104 at least one pylon structure 106 coupled to the base structure 102 and projecting therefrom; and one or more tokens 108 configured to removably couple to the at least one pylon structure 106; a game-board article 1002 comprising; at least one substantially flat game board 1004 marked with at least one polygonal zone 1006 large enough to contain at least one game-piece article 100 for a player to place a player-controlled game piece and at least one polygonal zone 1006 large enough to contain at least one game-piece article 100 for a player to place a non-player-controlled game piece; and a storage area for the at least one game-piece article 100.
In certain embodiments, the game board 1004 ranges in size from two inches to three feet in width and/or length, and anywhere from 0.002 to six inches in height. In certain embodiments the at least one polygonal zone 1006 ranges in size from one centimeter to three inches in width and length with a height corresponding to the height of the game board 1004. In some embodiments the game board 1004 may vary in height at different points, with some areas being taller or shorter than others. In some embodiments, the at least one polygonal zones 1006 may vary in height with some being taller or shorter than others. The variation in height may be uniform across the at least one polygonal zones 1006 or it may not be and instead be characterized by a gradient, division, or irregular shape.
In certain embodiments the storage area for the at least one game-piece article 100 is further comprised of a container with at least one opening. In certain embodiments the container is comprised of a polygonal shape with an internal cavity configured to receive and store at least one of the at least one game-piece articles 100 and/or tokens 108.
In certain embodiments the game-board article 1002 is comprised of one or more sections 1100. These sections 1100 may take on a variety of two or three-dimensional shapes, including, but not limited to, squares, rectangles, pyramids, circles, and/or hexagons, or a combination thereof. These sections 1100 may be made up of smaller polygons such as a section 1100 that is made up of connected hexagons or squares, which may be removably coupled with other sections 1100 to form a modular game board 1004 or may form a larger board when placed adjacent to each other. In some embodiments these sections 1100 may be connected in various configurations to generate a variety of shapes. In certain embodiments, these sections 1100 may removably couple through a variety of means including, but not limited to, clips, interlocking flanges, friction, magnetically, and/or through pegs and slots.
In certain embodiments the game-board article 1002 further comprises electronic components including, but not limited to, one or more computer processors, electronic communication interfaces, and/or one or more sensors. The computer processor may be configured to detect the position of the at least one game-piece article 100 and/or when the one or more tokens 108 are coupled to at least one or more of the at least one pylon structures 106 using the one or more sensors. In some embodiments there may be an associated display or electronic communication interface with the game board 1004 which the computer processor may instruct to display information about the state of the game session including but not limited to information regarding the position of the one or more game-piece articles 100, what and how many of the one or more tokens 108 are coupled to the one or more pylon structures 106, allow for user input and navigation of information, or other information relevant to the game session. In certain embodiments the game-board article 1002 further comprises one or more speakers which may be instructed by the computer processor to make one or more sounds to convey information about the game or in response to events occurring related to the game. The sounds may include, but are not limited to, information about the game session, the position of the one or more game-piece articles 100, what and how many of the one or more tokens 108 are coupled to the one or more pylon structures 106. In certain embodiments the game-board article 1002 further comprises one or more lights that the computer processor may instruct to activate or deactivate based on information from the sensors or another input. The lights may be configured to activate based on certain game states, indicating things including but not limited to, the position of the one or more game-piece articles 100, the addition or removal of the one or more tokens 108 from the one or more pylon structures 106, or in response to other events related to the game session. The one or more lights may be of different, or changing, colors, opacities or shapes to indicate different information or states in the game session.
FIG. 12 is a top down view of a game-board system 1000, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In certain embodiments, the invention comprises a game-board system 1000 which comprises, at least one game-piece article 100 comprising; a base structure 102 comprised of a base 104 at least one pylon structure 106 coupled to the base structure 102 and projecting therefrom; and one or more tokens 108 configured to removably couple to the at least one pylon structure 106; a game-board article 1002 comprising; at least one substantially flat game board 1004 marked with at least one polygonal zone 1006 large enough to contain at least one game-piece article 100 for a player to place a player-controlled game piece and at least one polygonal zone 1006 large enough to contain at least one game-piece article 100 for a player to place a non-player-controlled game piece; and a storage area for the at least one game-piece article 100.
In certain embodiments, the game board 1004 ranges in size from two inches to three feet in width and/or length, and anywhere from 0.002 to six inches in height. In certain embodiments the at least one polygonal zone 1006 ranges in size from one centimeter to three inches in width and length with a height corresponding to the height of the game board 1004. In some embodiments the game board 1004 may vary in height at different points, with some areas being taller or shorter than others. In some embodiments, the at least one polygonal zones 1006 may vary in height with some being taller or shorter than others. The variation in height may be uniform across the at least one polygonal zones or it may not be and instead be characterized by a gradient, division, or irregular shape.
In certain embodiments the storage area for the at least one game-piece article 100 is further comprised of a container with at least one opening. In certain embodiments the container is comprised of a polygonal shape with an internal cavity configured to receive and store at least one of the at least one game-piece articles 100 and/or tokens 108.
In certain embodiments the game-board article 1002 is comprised of one or more sections 1100. These sections 1100 may take on a variety of two or three-dimensional shapes, including, but not limited to, squares, rectangles, pyramids, circles, and/or hexagons, or a combination thereof. These sections 1100 may be made up of smaller polygons such as a section 1100 that is made up of connected hexagons or squares, which may be removably coupled with other sections 1100 to form a modular game board 1004 or may form a larger board when placed adjacent to each other. In some embodiments these sections 1100 may be connected in various configurations to generate a variety of shapes. In certain embodiments, these sections 1100 may removably couple through a variety of means including, but not limited to, clips, interlocking flanges, friction, magnetically, and/or through pegs and slots.
In certain embodiments the game-board article 1002 further comprises electronic components including, but not limited to, one or more computer processors, electronic communication interfaces, and/or one or more sensors. The computer processor may be configured to detect the position of the at least one game-piece article 100 and/or when the one or more tokens 108 are coupled to at least one or more of the at least one pylon structures 106 using the one or more sensors. In some embodiments there may be an associated display or electronic communication interface with the game board 1004 which the computer processor may instruct to display information about the state of the game session including but not limited to information regarding the position of the one or more game-piece articles 100, what and how many of the one or more tokens 108 are coupled to the one or more pylon structures 106, allow for user input and navigation of information, or other information relevant to the game session. In certain embodiments the game-board article 1002 further comprises one or more speakers which may be instructed by the computer processor to make one or more sounds to convey information about the game or in response to events occurring related to the game. The sounds may include, but are not limited to, information about the game session, the position of the one or more game-piece articles 100, what and how many of the one or more tokens 108 are coupled to the one or more pylon structures 106. In certain embodiments the game-board article 1002 further comprises one or more lights that the computer processor may instruct to activate or deactivate based on information from the sensors or another input. The lights may be configured to activate based on certain game states, indicating things including but not limited to, the position of the one or more game-piece articles 100, the addition or removal of the one or more tokens 108 from the one or more pylon structures 106, or in response to other events related to the game session. The one or more lights may be of different, or changing, colors, opacities or shapes to indicate different information or states in the game session.
While preferred and alternate embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, as noted above, many changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is not limited by the disclosure of these preferred and alternate embodiments. Instead, the invention should be determined by reference to the claims that follow.

Claims

1. A game-piece article, the game-piece article comprising:

a base structure comprised of a base; and

at least one pylon structure coupled to the base structure and projecting therefrom.

2. The game-piece article of claim 1, wherein the base structure is substantially shaped like a polygon from the list: square, circle, hexagon, arrow, or triangle.

3. The game-piece article of claim 1, the article further comprising:

one or more tokens configured to removably couple to the at least one pylon structure.

4. The game-piece article of claim 3, wherein the one or more tokens are tori with a channel through them into which one of the at least one pylon structure is configured to be inserted.

5. The game-piece article of claim 3, wherein the one or more tokens further comprise a clip component complementary to a clip located on the at least one pylon structure.

6. The game-piece article of claim 5, wherein the one or more tokens further comprise a second clip point which allows two of the one or more tokens to removably couple to each other.

7. The game-piece article of claim 3, wherein the one or more tokens further comprise a channel which corresponds to a threading on the at least one pylon structure.

8. The game-piece article of claim 3, wherein the one or more tokens further comprise a flange which corresponds to a channel on the at least one pylon structure, enabling the one or more tokens to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure.

9. The game-piece article of claim 3, wherein the one or more tokens further comprise a channel which corresponds to a flange on the at least one pylon structure, enabling the one or more tokens to slidably secure to the at least one pylon structure.

10. The game-piece article of claim 3, further comprising:

one or more lights that are configured to activate or deactivate based on coupling of the one or more tokens to at least one of the at least one pylon structure.

11. The game-piece article of claim 3, further comprising:

one or more speakers that are configured to produce one or more sounds based on coupling of the one or more tokens to at least one of the at least one pylon structure.

12. The game-piece article of claim 3, further comprising:

a computer processor; and

one or more sensors,

wherein the computer processor is configured to detect when the one or more tokens are coupled to at least one of the at least one pylon structure using the sensor.

13. The game-piece article of claim 12 further comprising:

one or more speakers,

wherein the computer processor is configured to determine when the one or more tokens are coupled to at least one of the at least one pylon structure using the one or more sensors and is configured to instruct the speaker to play one or more sound recordings associated with the one or more tokens.

14. The game-piece article of claim 12, further comprising:

an electronic communication interface,

wherein the computer processor is configured to transmit information regarding a number and a type of the one or more tokens coupled to at least one of the at least one pylon structure.

15. The game-piece article of claim 3, further comprising:

at least one other token of a different configuration than the one or more tokens.

16. A game-piece article, the game-piece article comprising:

a base structure comprised of:

a base having dimensions of one centimeter to ten centimeters in width and one quarter millimeter to two centimeters in height, at least a top face and a bottom face and at least one side face; and

at least one pylon structure having dimensions of one centimeter to ten centimeters in height and coupled perpendicular to the base structure; and

one or more tokens having a token aperture that is substantially the same width as the at least one pylon structure and configured to removably couple to the at least one pylon structure by insertion of the at least one pylon structure into the token aperture.

17. A game-board system, the game-board system comprising:

at least one game-piece article comprising;

a base structure comprised of a base;

at least one pylon structure coupled to the base structure and projecting therefrom; and

one or more tokens configured to removably couple to the at least one pylon structure;

a game-board article comprising;

at least one substantially flat game board marked with at least one polygonal zone large enough to contain at least one game-piece article for a player to place a player-controlled game piece and at least one polygonal zone large enough to contain at least one game-piece article for a player to place a non-player-controlled game piece.

18. The game-board system of claim 17, wherein the at least one substantially flat game board is comprised of one or more pieces configured to removably couple in one or more configurations and a storage area for the at least one game-piece article.

19. The game-board system of claim 17, wherein the game-board article further comprises:

a computer processor; and

a sensor,

wherein the computer processor is configured to detect the position of the at least one game-piece article and/or when the one or more tokens are coupled to at least one or more of the at least one pylon structure using the sensor.

20. The game-board system of claim 19, wherein the game-board article further comprises:

one or more lights,

wherein the computer processor is configured to determine the position of the at least one game-piece article and/or when the one or more tokens are coupled to at least one of the at least one pylon structure using the sensor and is configured to instruct the one or more lights associated with the at least one game-piece article and/or one or more tokens to activate or deactivate; and

one or more speakers,

wherein the computer processor is configured to determine the position of the at least one game-piece article and/or when the one or more tokens are coupled to at least one of the at least one pylon structure using the sensor and is configured to instruct the one or more speakers to play one or more sound recordings associated with the at least one game-piece article and/or one or more tokens.