Apparatus for simulating running games
AssigneeWorld Inventions
InventorsMelvin F. Smack, Sr., Garland J. Semien, Jr.
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An apparatus for simulating running games wherein figurines are propelled about a track to simulate races and field events. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the figurines are guided along slots in the track and have electric motors that are powered by control signals supplied from conductive strips paralleling the track. The control signals are preferrably supplied by a foot control unit that is operated by alternating foot motions of the user. With such an arrangement running games can be simulated which permit the physical dexterity and strategy of the user to affect the outcome of the contest.
Claims17
An apparatus for simulating a running contest comprising:
- a track about which running contest is conducted;
- movement indicator means positioned for movement on the track for indicating distance travelled by a contestant;
- and
- means coupled to the movement indicator means for controlling the movement indicator means, including means operated by depressive foot movements in the form of running that are supplied by a user for generating control signals, wherein the amount of distance travelled indicated by the movement indicator means is a function of the control signals supplied from the controlling means, wherein the controlling means includes:
- first activating means operated by the depressive foot movement of one foot of the user for providing a first signal;
- second activating means operated by the depressive foot movement of the other foot of the user for providing a second signal;
- and
- means coupled to the first and second activating means for transmitting control signals to the movement indicator means wherein the control signals are transmitted when either the first or the second, but not both activating means are being operated.
The apparatus of 2 wherein the propelling means includes:
- an electric motor which is responsive to the control signals for supplying rotational motion;
- and
- means for transferring the rotational motion from the electric motor to the track so that the figurine is propelled along the track, wherein the transferring means includes means for selecting a ratio by which the rotational motion of the electric motor is transformed to displacement of the figurine along the track.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.