US20250332495A1

US20250332495A1 - Hexagonal obstacle for enhancing table tennis gameplay with unpredictable ball deflection

Info

Publication number: US20250332495A1
Application number: US19/232,951
Authority: US
Inventors: Peter FW Beeney; Mark J. Novak
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2024-04-24
Filing date: 2025-06-10
Publication date: 2025-10-30

Abstract

An obstacle for table tennis introduces unpredictability to gameplay by deflecting balls in random directions. The obstacle features a hexagonal upper frame with a soft rubber insert, a lower frame, a hexagonal core for structural support, and rubber feet for stability. It is customizable, compatible with standard equipment, and may include optional features such as sensors, lights, autonomous movement, and wireless connectivity. The obstacle enhances engagement and strategy and can be adapted for virtual or digital gameplay.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. provisional application No. 63/637,983, filed Apr. 24, 2024, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Table tennis, also known as ping pong, is a widely popular sport enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels. The game is traditionally played on a rectangular table divided by a net, with players using paddles to hit a lightweight ball back and forth. Over the years, the sport has evolved with advancements in equipment, such as improved paddle materials and table surfaces, which have enhanced gameplay and player performance. Despite these developments, the fundamental structure and rules of the game have remained largely unchanged, offering a consistent and predictable experience for players.
However, the predictability of traditional table tennis can lead to a lack of variety and excitement, particularly for casual players or those seeking a more dynamic and engaging experience. Skilled players often develop the ability to anticipate ball trajectories with precision, which can result in repetitive gameplay and reduced challenges. This predictability may diminish the appeal of the game for some players, as it limits opportunities for unexpected outcomes or creative strategies. Additionally, the standard format of table tennis may not fully cater to players of varying skill levels, potentially creating a gap in accessibility and inclusivity.
The limitations of traditional table tennis are further compounded by the absence of elements that introduce randomness or variability into the game. While the sport demands a high degree of skill and strategy, it lacks features that could add an element of chance or unpredictability, which are often key components of other recreational games. This absence of variability may deter players who are looking for a fresh and innovative twist to the classic game, as well as those who wish to engage in a more balanced competition where skill and luck are intertwined.
Therefore, the need exists for improved systems and methods to address these and other challenges with conventional products and methods.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to an obstacle for use in connection with a table tennis game, which introduces an element of unpredictability and variability to enhance the gameplay experience. The invention comprises a hexagonally shaped obstacle that can be placed on the surface of a table tennis table. The obstacle is designed to deflect a table tennis ball in unpredictable directions when struck, thereby disrupting the ball's trajectory and requiring players to adapt their strategies and reactions. This feature adds a dynamic and engaging element to the game, combining skill, strategy, and chance to create a more exciting and challenging experience for players of all skill levels.
In one embodiment, the obstacle includes a hexagonal soft rubber insert mounted within an upper frame. The soft rubber insert provides a surface with unique bounce characteristics, further accentuating the unpredictability of the ball's deflection. The upper frame is supported by a lower frame, which may include rubber feet to stabilize the obstacle on the table surface and prevent movement during gameplay. The obstacle may also include additional features, such as a hexagonal core positioned between the upper and lower frames, to enhance its structural integrity and performance.
The invention is versatile and customizable, allowing players to position the obstacle in various configurations on the table tennis surface. This flexibility enables players to adjust the level of difficulty and randomness in the game, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience with each match. The obstacle can be used in conjunction with standard table tennis equipment, such as paddles and balls, and does not require any permanent modifications to the table, making it easy to integrate into traditional gameplay. One or more obstacles can be used at the same time to add additional uncertainty.
In some embodiments, the obstacle may include optional enhancements, such as pressure sensors, lights, sound effects, or autonomous movement capabilities, to further enrich the gameplay experience. The invention may also be adapted for use in virtual reality or video game formats, providing additional opportunities for players to enjoy this innovative variation of table tennis. The present invention addresses the limitations of traditional table tennis by introducing a novel and engaging feature that enhances the game's accessibility, inclusivity, and entertainment value.
These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an obstacle for use in connection with a table tennis game in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, shown with two obstacles positioned on either side of a table tennis table;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the obstacle, illustrating the upper frame, hexagonal soft rubber insert, and obstacle legs;

FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of the obstacle, showing the lower frame and rubber feet;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the obstacle, detailing the hexagonal soft rubber insert, upper frame, hexagonal core, lower frame, and rubber feet; and

FIG. 5 is a side view of an obstacle in use, showing a table tennis ball striking the hexagonal soft rubber insert and being deflected in an unpredictable direction.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.
Referring now to FIGS. 1-5 , wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views, the present invention is directed to an obstacle for use in connection with a table tennis game. The obstacle, generally designated as 10, is configured to introduce an element of unpredictability and variability to the game by deflecting a table tennis ball in unexpected directions when struck.
As shown in FIG. 1 , one or more obstacles 10 are positioned on the surface 24 of a table tennis table 22. The obstacle 10 is designed to remain stable during gameplay while interacting with a table tennis ball to alter its trajectory.
FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the obstacle 10, which includes an upper frame 12, a hexagonal soft rubber insert 16, and a plurality of obstacle legs 28. The upper frame 12 provides structural support and houses the hexagonal soft rubber insert 16, which serves as the primary surface for deflecting the ball. The obstacle legs 28 extend outwardly from the frame 12 to provide stability and prevent the obstacle 10 from moving during gameplay.
FIG. 3 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the obstacle 10, highlighting the structural components that provide stability during gameplay. The lower frame 14 is shown as the base of the obstacle, supporting the overall structure. Attached to the lower frame 14 are a plurality of rubber feet 20, which are configured to inhibit the obstacle 10 from sliding or shifting on the surface 24 of a table tennis table during use. The rubber feet 20 are constructed from a non-slip material to ensure secure placement, even during high-impact gameplay. This view emphasizes the importance of the lower frame 14 and rubber feet 20 in maintaining the obstacle's stability and functionality.
FIG. 4 provides an exploded view of the obstacle 10, detailing its core structural components. The hexagonal soft rubber insert 16 is mounted within the upper frame 12 and is supported by a hexagonal core 18. The hexagonal core 18 is positioned between the upper frame 12 and a lower frame 14, which collectively form the main body of the obstacle 10. The lower frame 14 is equipped with rubber feet 20, which enhance stability and help prevent the obstacle 10 from sliding on the table surface 24 during use. The combination of the soft rubber insert 16 and the rigid structural components ensures that the obstacle 10 is both durable and effective in altering the ball's trajectory.
The functionality of the obstacle 10 is further illustrated in FIG. 5 , which depicts a table tennis ball 26 striking the hexagonal soft rubber insert 16. Upon impact, the unique bounce characteristics of the soft rubber insert 16 cause the ball 26 to deflect in an unpredictable direction. This deflection disrupts the ball's trajectory, requiring players to adapt their strategies and reactions, thereby enhancing the dynamic nature of the game.
In some embodiments, the obstacle 10 may include additional features to further enrich the gameplay experience. For example, pressure sensors may be embedded beneath the soft rubber insert 16 to detect ball impacts and activate lights or sound effects. Autonomous movement capabilities, such as motorized wheels and spatial sensors, may also be incorporated to allow the obstacle 10 to reposition itself during gameplay, adding an additional layer of unpredictability. Furthermore, wireless connectivity may enable players to remotely control the obstacle 10 or integrate it with a companion application for tracking scores, analyzing gameplay, or customizing obstacle configurations.
The obstacle 10 is designed to be versatile and customizable. Players can position the obstacle 10 in various configurations on the table surface 24 to adjust the level of difficulty and randomness in the game. This flexibility ensures that each match offers a fresh and engaging experience. The obstacle 10 is compatible with standard table tennis equipment, such as paddles and balls, and does not require any permanent modifications to the table 22, making it easy to integrate into traditional gameplay.
The invention may also be adapted for use in virtual reality or video game formats, providing additional opportunities for players to enjoy this innovative variation of table tennis. For example, virtual representations of the obstacle 10 may be incorporated into digital gameplay environments, allowing players to experience the same dynamic and unpredictable gameplay in a virtual setting.
It should be understood, of course, that the foregoing relates to exemplary embodiments of the invention and that modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An obstacle for use in connection with a table tennis game, comprising:

an upper frame having a hexagonal shape;

a hexagonal soft rubber insert mounted within the upper frame, the soft rubber insert configured to deflect a table tennis ball in an unpredictable direction upon impact;

a lower frame positioned beneath the upper frame;

a hexagonal core disposed between the upper frame and the lower frame, the hexagonal core providing structural support to the obstacle; and

a plurality of rubber feet attached to the lower frame, the rubber feet configured to stabilize the obstacle on a table tennis table surface and prevent movement during gameplay.

2. The obstacle of claim 1, wherein the upper frame, the lower frame, and the hexagonal core are constructed from a rigid material to provide durability and structural integrity.

3. The obstacle of claim 1, wherein the soft rubber insert is configured to provide unique bounce characteristics that enhance the unpredictability of the ball's deflection.

4. The obstacle of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of obstacle legs extending outwardly from the upper frame, the obstacle legs configured to provide additional stability to the obstacle during gameplay.

5. The obstacle of claim 1, wherein the obstacle is configured to be placed on a table tennis table surface without requiring permanent modifications to the table.

6. The obstacle of claim 1, further comprising pressure sensors embedded beneath the soft rubber insert, the pressure sensors configured to detect ball impacts and activate at least one of lights or sound effects.

7. The obstacle of claim 1, further comprising autonomous movement capabilities, including:

motorized wheels attached to the lower frame; and

spatial sensors configured to detect the position of the obstacle and enable repositioning during gameplay.

8. The obstacle of claim 1, further comprising wireless connectivity configured to allow remote control of the obstacle or integration with a companion application for tracking scores, analyzing gameplay, or customizing obstacle configurations.

9. The obstacle of claim 1, wherein the obstacle is configured to be positioned in various locations on the table tennis table surface to adjust the level of difficulty and randomness in gameplay.

10. The obstacle of claim 1, wherein the hexagonal soft rubber insert and the upper frame are removably attached to allow for replacement or customization of the soft rubber insert.

11. The obstacle of claim 1, wherein the obstacle is adapted for use in virtual reality or video game formats, wherein a virtual representation of the obstacle is incorporated into a digital gameplay environment.

12. The obstacle of claim 1, wherein the hexagonal core includes a plurality of internal support structures configured to enhance the rigidity and durability of the obstacle.

13. The obstacle of claim 1, wherein the rubber feet are constructed from a non-slip material to help prevent sliding of the obstacle on the table tennis table surface.

14. The obstacle of claim 1, wherein the upper frame, the lower frame, and the hexagonal core are assembled using releasable fasteners to allow for disassembly and reassembly of the obstacle.

15. The obstacle of claim 1, wherein the obstacle is scalable in size to accommodate different levels of player skill or to provide varying levels of gameplay difficulty.

16. The obstacle of claim 1, wherein the soft rubber insert is adhered to the upper frame to ensure secure placement during gameplay.

17. The obstacle of claim 1, wherein the obstacle is configured to be used in conjunction with standard table tennis equipment, including paddles and balls.

18. The obstacle of claim 1, wherein the hexagonal shape of the soft rubber insert is configured to create varied and unpredictable angles of deflection when struck by a table tennis ball.

19. The obstacle of claim 1, wherein the obstacle is configured to be used in a competitive table tennis game format, wherein players strategically position the obstacle on the table tennis table surface to influence gameplay.

20. The obstacle of claim 1, wherein the obstacle is configured to enhance player reflexes, hand-eye coordination, and strategic decision-making by introducing an element of unpredictability to the game.