US20170100653A1 - Diving devices configured to make and/or to emit distinct noises and associated methods for the use of the diving devices - Google Patents

Diving devices configured to make and/or to emit distinct noises and associated methods for the use of the diving devices Download PDF

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Publication number
US20170100653A1
US20170100653A1 US14/878,702 US201514878702A US2017100653A1 US 20170100653 A1 US20170100653 A1 US 20170100653A1 US 201514878702 A US201514878702 A US 201514878702A US 2017100653 A1 US2017100653 A1 US 2017100653A1
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diving
devices
water
diving devices
audio
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US14/878,702
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John J. Melman
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Priority to US14/878,702 priority Critical patent/US20170100653A1/en
Publication of US20170100653A1 publication Critical patent/US20170100653A1/en
Priority to US15/838,803 priority patent/US20180099194A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B67/00Sporting games or accessories therefor, not provided for in groups A63B1/00 - A63B65/00
    • A63B67/007Sporting games or accessories therefor, not provided for in groups A63B1/00 - A63B65/00 played in water
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B69/00Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
    • A63B69/12Arrangements in swimming pools for teaching swimming or for training
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B71/00Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
    • A63B71/06Indicating or scoring devices for games or players, or for other sports activities
    • A63B71/0619Displays, user interfaces and indicating devices, specially adapted for sport equipment, e.g. display mounted on treadmills
    • A63B71/0622Visual, audio or audio-visual systems for entertaining, instructing or motivating the user
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B71/00Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
    • A63B71/0009Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00 for handicapped persons
    • A63B2071/0027Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00 for handicapped persons visually handicapped
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B71/00Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
    • A63B71/06Indicating or scoring devices for games or players, or for other sports activities
    • A63B71/0619Displays, user interfaces and indicating devices, specially adapted for sport equipment, e.g. display mounted on treadmills
    • A63B71/0622Visual, audio or audio-visual systems for entertaining, instructing or motivating the user
    • A63B2071/0625Emitting sound, noise or music
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B71/00Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
    • A63B71/06Indicating or scoring devices for games or players, or for other sports activities
    • A63B71/0619Displays, user interfaces and indicating devices, specially adapted for sport equipment, e.g. display mounted on treadmills
    • A63B2071/0658Position or arrangement of display
    • A63B2071/0661Position or arrangement of display arranged on the user
    • A63B2071/0666Position or arrangement of display arranged on the user worn on the head or face, e.g. combined with goggles or glasses
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2225/00Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
    • A63B2225/60Apparatus used in water
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2225/00Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
    • A63B2225/60Apparatus used in water
    • A63B2225/605Floating
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2225/00Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
    • A63B2225/74Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment with powered illuminating means, e.g. lights
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2244/00Sports without balls
    • A63B2244/20Swimming
    • A63B2244/203Diving
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B67/00Sporting games or accessories therefor, not provided for in groups A63B1/00 - A63B65/00
    • A63B67/06Ring or disc tossing games, e.g. quoits; Throwing or tossing games, e.g. using balls; Games for manually rolling balls, e.g. marbles

Definitions

  • Embodiments of the present invention provide improvements over currently available diving games.
  • various embodiments may be configured to allow players to not only practice diving and swimming, but also to practice listening, remembering, coordinating their swimming and diving based on heard noises, arithmetic, and/or the like.
  • various embodiments of the present invention provide diving games and associated devices configured to be engaging.
  • a set of diving devices comprises two or more diving devices, each diving device being configured to be tossed into a body of water and, upon being incident upon the surface of the body of water, cause a water entry noise that is distinct from water entry noises corresponding to each of the other diving devices in the set of diving devices, wherein the distinct water entry noise is due at least in part to at least one of a size of the diving device, a shape of the diving device, a density of the diving device, or a weight of the diving device.
  • a method of using a set of diving devices comprises the steps of: providing a set of diving devices, the set of diving devices comprising two or more diving devices, each diving device being configured to be tossed into a body of water and, upon being incident upon the surface of the body of water, cause a water entry noise that is distinct from water entry noises corresponding to each of the other diving devices in the set of diving devices, wherein the distinct water entry noise is do at least in part to at least one of a size of the diving device, a shape of the diving device, a density of the diving device, or a weight of the diving device; tossing at least two of the diving devices of the set of diving devices into a body of water; attempting to retrieve at least one of the diving devices from the body of water based at least in part on the distinct water entry noise associated with each diving device; and awarding points for retrieval of at least one of the diving devices from the body of water.
  • another method of using a set of diving devices comprises the steps of: providing a set of diving devices, the set of diving devices comprising two or more diving devices, each diving device being configured to be tossed into a body of water and comprising at least one audio emitting component configured to make an audio signal, wherein each diving device emits a distinct audio signal; tossing at least two of the diving devices of the set of diving devices into a body of water; attempting to retrieve at least one of the diving devices from the body of water based at least in part on the distinct audio signal associated with each diving device; and awarding points for retrieval of at least one of the diving devices from the body of water.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates an example use of a set of devices, according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 2A provides a top view of a set of devices, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 2B provides a side view of the set of devices illustrated in FIG. 2A ;
  • FIG. 2C provides a bottom view of the set of devices illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B ;
  • FIG. 3 provides a top of another set of devices, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 4A and 4B each provide a flowchart illustrating a method of use of a set of devices, according to various embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates an example situation in which a set of devices, such as those disclosed herein, may be used.
  • diving devices 100 e.g., 100 a, b, c
  • a player 60 who may be blindfolded (e.g., wearing blacked out goggles, having closed eyes, and/or the like), may attempt to retrieve the diving devices 100 (e.g., 100 a, b, c ).
  • the diving devices 100 a, b, c may be configured to emit an audio signal (e.g., tones 130 a, b, c ) that may help to guide the player 60 to the associated diving device.
  • an audio signal e.g., tones 130 a, b, c
  • each diving device 100 of the set of devices is configured to provide a distinct water entry noise in response to the diving device 100 coming into contact with the surface of the water.
  • each diving device 100 of a set of devices may have a different shape, weight, mass density, and/or the like configured to provide a water entry noise that is distinct from the water entry noise of the other diving devices of the set of devices.
  • one or more diving devices 100 of the set of devices may be equipped with a power source and circuitry.
  • the circuitry may be configured to cause the diving device to emit a tone, emit a light, move, and/or the like.
  • the diving device may be equipped with an on/off switch and/or other control buttons, dials, and/or the like for controlling the emitted tone or light or movement of the diving device.
  • a thrower may toss each diving device 100 (e.g., 100 a, b, c ) or subset of the diving devices of the set of devices into a body of water 50 (e.g., pool, lake, and/or the like).
  • a body of water 50 e.g., pool, lake, and/or the like.
  • the diving devices 100 contact the surface of the water, they each cause a distinct noise to be emitted as they enter the water.
  • a player 60 may listen for the water entry noises to determine the location of the associated diving device 100 .
  • the player 60 may be blindfolded (e.g., wearing blacked-out goggles or closing his/her eyes) and may use the water entry noise of a diving device to determine a location of the diving device.
  • the player 60 may then swim (or otherwise move) through the body of water 50 to an expected location of a diving device 100 and attempt to retrieve the diving device.
  • one or more diving devices 100 of the set of devices may be configured to emit an audio signal 130 (e.g., 130 a, b, c ) or light that may be used by the player in locating that diving device 100 (e.g., 100 a, b, c ).
  • each diving device 100 may be associated with a point amount that may be awarded for retrieval of that diving device.
  • FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C provide a top view, side view, and bottom view, respectively, of one set of devices 1000 .
  • the illustrated diving devices 100 d, e are generally mound-shaped, however, various shapes are possible.
  • the diving devices may be shaped like hockey pucks (e.g., short cylinders with chamfered edges), star fish or other fish, treasure chests, treasure bags, submarines, ships, airplanes missiles, various animals, large casino chips or coins, humans, beverage cans, and/or other shape.
  • each diving device of the set of devices may have a different shape.
  • the set of devices comprises a mound-shaped diving device, a hockey puck-shaped diving device, and a star fish-shaped diving device.
  • each diving device 100 is generally rounded and is free of sharp edges or corners.
  • each diving device 100 may be sized such that an average seven year old can easily grasp the diving device.
  • each diving device 100 may be sized in either a smaller or a larger fashion, however as may be desirable for a particular application or use thereof.
  • each diving device 100 may be weighted such that the diving device sinks to the bottom surface of the body of water 50 (e.g., pool floor, lake bottom, and/or the like).
  • a particular portion of the diving device 100 may be weighted such that that portion of the diving device tends to settle adjacent to the bottom surface of the body of water 50 .
  • a diving device 100 may be weighted such that the diving device has a preferred bottom. The preferred bottom may be rubberized in some embodiments such that the diving device does not easily slide across the bottom surface of the body of water 50 .
  • the diving devices 100 may be constructed with a set weight and density to encourage their rapid decent to the bottom surface of the body of water 50 .
  • one or more diving devices of a set of devices may be weighted such that the diving device(s) 100 float just above the bottom surface of the body of water 50 or at a predetermined depth.
  • Each of the devices 100 within a set may be differently weighted, so as to cause each to behave differently, as may be desirable.
  • each diving device 100 may be weighted such that an average seven year old may lift and/or toss the diving device.
  • each diving device 100 may be sized in either a lighter or a heavier fashion, however as may be desirable for a particular application or use thereof.
  • one or more of the diving devices 100 of the set of diving devices 1000 may comprise a bladder configured to ingest a predetermined and/or variable amount of water to affect the weight, density, and/or buoyancy of the diving device 100 .
  • a bladder may be used to adjust the buoyancy of a diving device 100 such that the diving device floats approximately two feet above the bottom surface of the body of water 50 , and/or the like.
  • the bladder may be selectively inflated and/or deflated by a user, for example, prior to throwing thereof, as described elsewhere herein.
  • the diving devices 100 d, e of a set of devices 1000 may be configured to cause different noises when they are incident upon the surface of the water.
  • the diving devices 100 d, e of a set of devices 1000 may have different shapes, weights, densities, and/or the like such that water entry noise of each diving device is distinct from the water entry noise(s) of the one or more other diving devices in the set of devices.
  • differing shapes may contribute at least in part to the noise caused when incident upon (i.e., when entering) water.
  • differing weights or densities may contribute at least in part to the noise caused.
  • any combination of size, shape, density, and/or weight may contribute to providing distinct and separate noises for each of the diving devices 100 d, e.
  • each diving device 100 may be made of polymer material.
  • the diving device 100 may be made of a plastic material or a rubbery material.
  • each diving device 100 may be firm in the middle and softer about the exterior of the diving device.
  • each diving device may have a portion in the interior of the diving device that is relatively firmer than the exterior surface of the diving device.
  • the diving device 100 may be configured to hold its shape, but may have a little give when pressed.
  • the firmer interior portion of the diving device may house circuitry 110 .
  • the circuitry 120 may comprise a power source (e.g., a battery), a speaker, a light emitting diode (LED), associated switches and/or dials 110 (e.g., 110 d, e ) and/or the like.
  • the circuitry 120 may comprise an electronic audio emitting component, speaker, and/or the like, for emitting an audio signal 130 (e.g., 130 a, b, c ).
  • the audio signal may be a constant audio signal or a repeated pulsed audio signal.
  • the circuitry 120 may comprise associated switches and/or dials 110 .
  • the associated switches and/or dials 110 may comprise one or more of an on/off switch (e.g., a toggle switch, on/off button, or the like), tone selector dial, frequency dial, volume dial, and/or the like.
  • a tone selector dial may allow a player or other user to select the audio signal that will be emitted by the diving device.
  • a frequency dial may allow a player or other user to select the frequency with which the audio signal will be emitted (e.g., constantly, twice a second, once a second, every two seconds, every 5 seconds, and/or the like).
  • the volume dial may allow a player or other user to select the volume with which the audio signal will be emitted.
  • a diving device may emit a constant or blinking light (e.g., via a colored LED) in place of or in addition to emitting an audio signal.
  • the diving device 100 may comprise a sensor which determines when the diving device 100 is underwater and the circuitry 120 may cause the diving device to emit an audio signal and/or light in response to detecting that the diving device 100 is underwater.
  • the diving device 100 may be configured so that the power source (e.g., battery) is replaceable.
  • each diving device 100 of the set of diving devices 1000 may emit a distinct audio signal with respect to the other diving devices of the set of diving devices.
  • the diving device 100 may be configured to emit an audio signal via means or components other than circuitry 120 .
  • the diving device 100 may comprise a mechanical audio emitting component, such as a wind-up audio emitting component.
  • a user may turn a dial or knob causing a spring or other component within the device to store energy that is later used to drive a mechanical audio emitting component.
  • a click-clack sound may be produced via gears
  • a tick-tock sound may also be produced via gears
  • a mechanical buzzer may generate, and/or the like may be used to emit an audio signal.
  • Various forms of mechanical audio emitters that may be driven via a wind up mechanism or the like may be used to emit an audio signal.
  • each diving device 100 of the set of diving devices 1000 may emit a distinct audio signal with respect to the other diving devices of the set of diving devices.
  • the firmer interior portion of the diving device 100 may be configured to store the circuitry 120 and any associated switches and/or dials 110 or a mechanical audio emitting component in a waterproof or water resistant manner.
  • the diving device 100 may be configured to prevent water from reaching the circuitry 120 during the regular use of the diving device.
  • the diving device 100 may be configured to move along the bottom surface of the body of water 50 or otherwise move through the body of water.
  • the diving device 100 may comprise a wheel, propeller, or jet propeller configured to allow the diving device 100 to move along the bottom surface of the body of water 50 or otherwise through the body of water.
  • the circuitry 120 may comprise a portion configured to cause the diving device 100 to move (e.g., through the use a wheel, propeller, jet propeller, and/or the like) if the diving device 100 has been under water for a threshold amount of time (e.g., after one minute, and/or the like).
  • the diving device 100 may have a foam propeller that may cause the diving device to move approximately five feet through the body of water every three minutes.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a set of devices 2000 .
  • Each diving device 200 (e.g., 200 a, b, c ) is similar to diving device 100 (e.g., 100 a, b, c, d, e ) but further comprises a clip 240 (e.g., 240 a, b, c ).
  • clip 240 may be configured to attach a diving ring 80 (e.g. 80 a, b, c ) and/or other object to the diving device 200 .
  • a diving ring 80 may be secured to each diving device 200 (e.g., via the clip 240 ) before the diving device 200 is tossed into the body of water 50 .
  • the diving device 200 may be weighted such that when the diving device 200 lands on the bottom surface of the body of water 50 , the diving device is preferentially oriented with the clip 240 and any associated diving ring 80 are point up.
  • clip 240 lightly secures the diving ring 80 to the diving device 200 such that a player 60 may not be able to retrieve both the diving ring and the diving device simply by grabbing the diving ring.
  • different point values may be assigned to retrieving the diving ring 80 and retrieving both the diving ring 80 and the diving device 200 .
  • the set of devices 2000 may allow a player 60 to use a previously owned set of diving rings to be located based on an emitted audio signal rather than visual identification of the diving ring.
  • a mounting mechanism other than that of a clip 240 may be provided, such that any of the diving devices 200 described herein may be configured to be attached to or to engage or otherwise mate with one or more associated components, which as may be toys such as dive rings, as such are commonly known and understood to involve.
  • the diving devices 200 may be provided in certain embodiments with a flexible recess and/or a recessed/open channel that is sized, shaped, and configured so as to permit passage there-through of at least a portion of the associated component.
  • the flexible recess and/or open channel may be located on an upper surface of one of the diving devices 100 described herein, such that a diving ring (circular) may pass at least in part there-through.
  • a diving ring circular
  • the diving ring could extend therefrom vertically, so as to provide the player 60 an element to easily grasp during use thereof, as described further below.
  • the diving device 200 may be mated with other diving or swimming toys or devices.
  • the diving device 200 may be mated with a larger, “swim-through” diving ring that may be configured to attract player(s) 60 by emitting an audio signal and/or by illuminating the ring (e.g., by using one or more LEDs and/or the like).
  • Points may be awarded (as described elsewhere herein) not only for retrieving the ring, but also for the player swimming through the ring. In some embodiments, as described elsewhere herein, points may be awarded only for swimming through the ring, still further perhaps only for swimming through the ring in a particular direction.
  • the diving device 200 may be mated with a support (e.g., a cylindrical pole) for a net (e.g., a volleyball net, badminton net, or basketball hoop).
  • a support e.g., a cylindrical pole
  • a net e.g., a volleyball net, badminton net, or basketball hoop
  • one end of a rope may be attached to the diving device 200 and the other end of the rope may be attached to an above or below water game such as a horizontal floating surface level “dive-through” ring, a game involving a basket, and/or the like.
  • the diving device 200 may be configured to be mated with a variety of other diving or swimming toys or devices.
  • points may be awarded for successful “dive-through” of the ring, whether by the player(s) or by a separate device (e.g., a ball) operated by the player(s).
  • a set of diving devices may comprise diving devices 100 , 200 of various sizes, shapes, or weights, devices that are configured to float or sink, configured to emit an audio signal or not, and/or the like. Indeed, each set of diving devices may comprise a unique characteristic. In other embodiments, a set of diving devices may only differ in one of size, weight, or shape. In various embodiments, a set of diving devices comprises two or more diving devices. In at least one embodiment, a set of diving devices involves three diving devices.
  • a set of diving devices may be used to play a diving game.
  • a player 60 may be blindfolded (e.g., wear blacked out goggles or close his or her eyes) and while a thrower (e.g., another player or other person) tosses the diving devices into a body of water 50 .
  • the player 60 may already be in the body of water 50 or may be near the edge of the body of water 50 .
  • the player 60 may use the distinct water entry noises of each diving device 100 , 200 of the set of devices 1000 , 2000 to guess an expected location of each tossed diving device 100 , 200 .
  • the player 60 may then attempt to retrieve one or more of the tossed diving devices 100 , 200 .
  • the player 60 may use such emissions to find one or more of the tossed diving devices.
  • the player 60 may be awarded points based on the retrieved diving devices, the time to retrieve the diving devices, the order in which the diving devices are retrieved and/or the like and/or a combination thereof.
  • FIG. 4A provides a flowchart illustrating an example method of using a set of diving devices 1000 , 2000 .
  • one or more players 60 are positioned.
  • the one or more players 60 may be in the body of water 50 or near the body of water 50 but not watching the tossing of the diving devices.
  • the players 60 may have their eyes closed, be wearing blacked out goggles, have their backs turned toward the body of water 50 , and/or the like.
  • water may be added or removed from a bladder of one or more of the diving devices 100 before or as the players are being positioned.
  • a person designated as the thrower e.g., a player or other person tosses two or more diving devices into the body of water 50 .
  • the diving devices may be tossed at the same time, one immediately after another, or with a small pause (1-10 seconds or the like) between the tossing of diving devices.
  • Each diving device may be tossed into an undisclosed location within the body of water 50 .
  • the player(s) 60 listen for the distinct water entry noise of at least one diving device.
  • the player(s) 60 may listen for the distinct water entry noise of a particular diving device 100 , all of the diving devices 100 of the set of diving devices 1000 , and/or the like.
  • the player(s) may be underwater prior to tossing of the devices; thus, no listening for distinct water entry noises would occur; instead, in at least those embodiments, the player(s) would listen for underwater emissions (e.g., audio).
  • the one or more players 60 may further mentally note the location (based upon perceived sound characteristics) of each distinct water entry noise. This serves to aid the players' attempts at recovering the two or more tossed diving devices in step 408 , as described below.
  • the player(s) 60 attempts to recover at least one of the two or more tossed diving devices may be guided by the player(s) interpretation of the distinct water entry noises of the two or more tossed diving devices.
  • the one or more players' 60 efforts to retrieve at least one of the two or more diving devices may be timed or constrained by a predetermined time limit, as may influence points awarded, as described below.
  • points are awarded to the one or more players 60 for the diving device(s) the players retrieved.
  • the points awarded may depend upon the diving device(s) retrieved (e.g., the largest diving device 100 of the set of diving devices 1000 may be assigned a lower or higher point value than a smaller diving device 100 of the set of diving device 1000 , and/or the like), the time to retrieve each diving device, the time to complete retrieval of all the diving devices, the order in which the diving devices were retrieved, and/or the like, and/or any combination thereof.
  • FIG. 4B provides a flowchart illustrating another example method of using a set of diving devices 1000 , 2000 .
  • one or more players 60 are positioned.
  • the one or more players 60 may be in the body of water 50 or near the body of water 50 but not watching the tossing of the diving devices.
  • the players 60 may have their eyes closed, being wearing blacked out goggles, have their backs turned toward the body of water 50 , and/or the like.
  • the one or more players 60 may be underwater.
  • the audio emitting component may be turned on, initiated, wound up, and/or the like.
  • the thrower (or other user) may turn a dial or knob to wind up or otherwise energize a mechanical audio emitting component.
  • the thrower (or other user), may press an on button, rotate a selector dial, and/or the like to turn on an audio emitting component.
  • a person designated as the thrower e.g., a player or other person tosses two or more diving devices into the body of water 50 .
  • the diving devices may be tossed at the same time, one immediately after another, or with a small pause (1-10 seconds or the like) between the tossing of diving devices.
  • Each diving device may be tossed into an undisclosed location within the body of water 50 .
  • the player(s) 60 listen for the distinct audio signal of at least one diving device.
  • the player(s) 60 may listen for the distinct audio signal of a particular diving device 100 , all of the diving devices 100 of the set of diving devices 1000 , and/or the like.
  • the one or more players 60 attempt to recover at least one of the two or more tossed diving devices.
  • the player(s) 60 attempts to retrieve at least one of the two or more tossed devices may be guided by the player's interpretation of the distinct audio signals emitted by one or more of the two or more tossed diving devices.
  • the one or more players' 60 efforts to retrieve at least one of the two or more diving devices may be timed or constrained by a predetermined time limit.
  • points are awarded to the one or more players 60 for the diving device(s) the players retrieved.
  • the points awarded may depend upon the diving device(s) retrieved (e.g., the largest diving device 100 of the set of diving devices 1000 may be assigned a lower or higher point value than a smaller diving device 100 of the set of diving device 1000 , and/or the like), the time to retrieve each diving device, the time to complete retrieval of all the diving devices, the order in which the diving devices were retrieved, and/or the like, and/or any combination thereof.
  • a method of using a set of diving devices 1000 , 2000 may include both listening for one or more distinct water entry noises and listening for one or more distinct audio signals.
  • the player(s) 60 attempts to retrieve at least one of the two or more tossed devices may be based on the player's interpretation of the one or more distinct water entry noises and/or the one or more distinct audio signals.
  • the one or more players 60 may be organized into teams or may play as individuals. In some embodiments, each player 60 may take a turn attempting to retrieve at least one of the two or more tossed diving devices. In some embodiments two or more players 60 may attempt to retrieve at least one of the two or more tossed diving devices at the same time. In some embodiments, if a first player 60 cannot retrieve at least one of the two or more tossed diving devices within a predetermined time limit, a second player 60 (of the same team or on a different team) may attempt to retrieve at least one of the two or more tossed diving devices.
  • the devices may not only make different water entry noises when incident upon the water, such may, when underwater (and/or when above water and being thrown) emit differing sound frequency signals.
  • the players 60 may further differentiate the devices thereupon, such that differing point values may be awarded based upon the level of the frequencies of each of the devices. Frequencies may be higher and lower or alternatively louder and softer relative to one another, and/or any of a variety of alternative configurations, provided distinctions there-between may be perceived by the players at least when pursuing the devices underwater.
  • the frequency emissions may be the only distinction perceivable by the user, for example wherein otherwise the size, shape, weight, and the like of the devices may be the same.
  • a “game” emphasizing audible listening skills for emitted sounds may be provided, as compared to a “game” that emphasizes audible listening skills relative to noises made upon entry into water (i.e., “kerplunk” sounds).

Abstract

A set of diving devices and methods of using the same in, for example, a water-based game, are provided. The devices comprise two or more diving devices, each being configured to be tossed into a body of water and upon entry to cause a water entry noise that is distinct from water entry noises corresponding to each of the other diving devices in the set of diving devices. The distinctness of the water entry noise for each device in the set is due at least in part to at least one of a size of each of the diving devices, a shape of each of the diving devices, a density of each of the diving device, and/or a weight of each of the diving devices. The methods involve users attempting to retrieve devices based upon distinct water entry noises and/or emitted audio signals, with points being awarded thereupon.

Description

    BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • People, especially children, generally benefit from practicing and learning new skills through play. For example, diving games where players retrieve objects from the floor of a pool help players to practice swimming and diving. Players are encouraged to play by the fun and/or competitive nature of such games. Therefore, it may be possible to use such games to encourage players to practice various other skills.
  • Thus, there is a need for improved diving games that may allow players to practice various skills in addition to swimming and diving. Additionally, there is a need for diving games with fun and/or competitive features to help encourage players to participate in the game.
  • SUMMARY
  • Embodiments of the present invention provide improvements over currently available diving games. In particular, various embodiments may be configured to allow players to not only practice diving and swimming, but also to practice listening, remembering, coordinating their swimming and diving based on heard noises, arithmetic, and/or the like. Furthermore, various embodiments of the present invention provide diving games and associated devices configured to be engaging.
  • According to various embodiments, a set of diving devices is provided. The set comprises two or more diving devices, each diving device being configured to be tossed into a body of water and, upon being incident upon the surface of the body of water, cause a water entry noise that is distinct from water entry noises corresponding to each of the other diving devices in the set of diving devices, wherein the distinct water entry noise is due at least in part to at least one of a size of the diving device, a shape of the diving device, a density of the diving device, or a weight of the diving device.
  • According to various embodiments, a method of using a set of diving devices is provided. The method comprises the steps of: providing a set of diving devices, the set of diving devices comprising two or more diving devices, each diving device being configured to be tossed into a body of water and, upon being incident upon the surface of the body of water, cause a water entry noise that is distinct from water entry noises corresponding to each of the other diving devices in the set of diving devices, wherein the distinct water entry noise is do at least in part to at least one of a size of the diving device, a shape of the diving device, a density of the diving device, or a weight of the diving device; tossing at least two of the diving devices of the set of diving devices into a body of water; attempting to retrieve at least one of the diving devices from the body of water based at least in part on the distinct water entry noise associated with each diving device; and awarding points for retrieval of at least one of the diving devices from the body of water.
  • According to various embodiments, another method of using a set of diving devices is provided. The method comprises the steps of: providing a set of diving devices, the set of diving devices comprising two or more diving devices, each diving device being configured to be tossed into a body of water and comprising at least one audio emitting component configured to make an audio signal, wherein each diving device emits a distinct audio signal; tossing at least two of the diving devices of the set of diving devices into a body of water; attempting to retrieve at least one of the diving devices from the body of water based at least in part on the distinct audio signal associated with each diving device; and awarding points for retrieval of at least one of the diving devices from the body of water.
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)
  • Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:
  • FIG. 1 illustrates an example use of a set of devices, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
  • FIG. 2A provides a top view of a set of devices, according to one embodiment of the present invention;
  • FIG. 2B provides a side view of the set of devices illustrated in FIG. 2A;
  • FIG. 2C provides a bottom view of the set of devices illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B;
  • FIG. 3 provides a top of another set of devices, according to one embodiment of the present invention; and
  • FIGS. 4A and 4B each provide a flowchart illustrating a method of use of a set of devices, according to various embodiments of the present invention.
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS
  • The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the inventions are shown. Indeed, these inventions may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates an example situation in which a set of devices, such as those disclosed herein, may be used. For example, in various embodiments, diving devices 100 (e.g., 100 a, b, c) may be tossed into a body of water 50 (e.g., a pool, lake, and/or the like). A player 60, who may be blindfolded (e.g., wearing blacked out goggles, having closed eyes, and/or the like), may attempt to retrieve the diving devices 100 (e.g., 100 a, b, c). In some embodiments, the diving devices 100 a, b, c may be configured to emit an audio signal (e.g., tones 130 a, b, c) that may help to guide the player 60 to the associated diving device.
  • Various embodiments of the present invention provide sets of two or more (e.g., three or four) diving devices and associated methods of use. In various embodiments, the set of devices are configured to be tossed into a body of water 50 (e.g., a pool, lake, and/or the like). In particular, each diving device 100 of the set of devices is configured to provide a distinct water entry noise in response to the diving device 100 coming into contact with the surface of the water. For example, each diving device 100 of a set of devices may have a different shape, weight, mass density, and/or the like configured to provide a water entry noise that is distinct from the water entry noise of the other diving devices of the set of devices.
  • In various embodiments, one or more diving devices 100 of the set of devices may be equipped with a power source and circuitry. The circuitry may be configured to cause the diving device to emit a tone, emit a light, move, and/or the like. The diving device may be equipped with an on/off switch and/or other control buttons, dials, and/or the like for controlling the emitted tone or light or movement of the diving device.
  • In various embodiments, a thrower may toss each diving device 100 (e.g., 100 a, b, c) or subset of the diving devices of the set of devices into a body of water 50 (e.g., pool, lake, and/or the like). As the diving devices 100 contact the surface of the water, they each cause a distinct noise to be emitted as they enter the water. A player 60 may listen for the water entry noises to determine the location of the associated diving device 100. For example, in some embodiments, the player 60 may be blindfolded (e.g., wearing blacked-out goggles or closing his/her eyes) and may use the water entry noise of a diving device to determine a location of the diving device. The player 60 may then swim (or otherwise move) through the body of water 50 to an expected location of a diving device 100 and attempt to retrieve the diving device. In various embodiments, one or more diving devices 100 of the set of devices may be configured to emit an audio signal 130 (e.g., 130 a, b, c) or light that may be used by the player in locating that diving device 100 (e.g., 100 a, b, c). Additionally, each diving device 100 may be associated with a point amount that may be awarded for retrieval of that diving device. Various embodiments of sets of diving devices and corresponding methods of use will now be described.
  • Exemplary Sets of Diving Devices
  • FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C provide a top view, side view, and bottom view, respectively, of one set of devices 1000. The illustrated diving devices 100 d, e are generally mound-shaped, however, various shapes are possible. For example, in various embodiments the diving devices may be shaped like hockey pucks (e.g., short cylinders with chamfered edges), star fish or other fish, treasure chests, treasure bags, submarines, ships, airplanes missiles, various animals, large casino chips or coins, humans, beverage cans, and/or other shape. In various embodiments, each diving device of the set of devices may have a different shape. For example, in one embodiment, the set of devices comprises a mound-shaped diving device, a hockey puck-shaped diving device, and a star fish-shaped diving device. In various embodiments, each diving device 100 is generally rounded and is free of sharp edges or corners. In various embodiments, each diving device 100 may be sized such that an average seven year old can easily grasp the diving device. Of course, each diving device 100 may be sized in either a smaller or a larger fashion, however as may be desirable for a particular application or use thereof.
  • In various embodiments, each diving device 100 (e.g., 100 a, b, c, d, e) may be weighted such that the diving device sinks to the bottom surface of the body of water 50 (e.g., pool floor, lake bottom, and/or the like). In some such embodiments, a particular portion of the diving device 100 may be weighted such that that portion of the diving device tends to settle adjacent to the bottom surface of the body of water 50. For example, a diving device 100 may be weighted such that the diving device has a preferred bottom. The preferred bottom may be rubberized in some embodiments such that the diving device does not easily slide across the bottom surface of the body of water 50. In various embodiments, the diving devices 100 may be constructed with a set weight and density to encourage their rapid decent to the bottom surface of the body of water 50. In some embodiments, one or more diving devices of a set of devices may be weighted such that the diving device(s) 100 float just above the bottom surface of the body of water 50 or at a predetermined depth. Each of the devices 100 within a set may be differently weighted, so as to cause each to behave differently, as may be desirable. In various embodiments, each diving device 100 may be weighted such that an average seven year old may lift and/or toss the diving device. Of course, each diving device 100 may be sized in either a lighter or a heavier fashion, however as may be desirable for a particular application or use thereof. In various embodiments, one or more of the diving devices 100 of the set of diving devices 1000 may comprise a bladder configured to ingest a predetermined and/or variable amount of water to affect the weight, density, and/or buoyancy of the diving device 100. For example, a bladder may be used to adjust the buoyancy of a diving device 100 such that the diving device floats approximately two feet above the bottom surface of the body of water 50, and/or the like. The bladder may be selectively inflated and/or deflated by a user, for example, prior to throwing thereof, as described elsewhere herein.
  • In various embodiments, the diving devices 100 d, e of a set of devices 1000 may be configured to cause different noises when they are incident upon the surface of the water. For example, the diving devices 100 d, e of a set of devices 1000 may have different shapes, weights, densities, and/or the like such that water entry noise of each diving device is distinct from the water entry noise(s) of the one or more other diving devices in the set of devices. In certain embodiments, differing shapes may contribute at least in part to the noise caused when incident upon (i.e., when entering) water. In other embodiments, differing weights or densities may contribute at least in part to the noise caused. In still other embodiments, any combination of size, shape, density, and/or weight may contribute to providing distinct and separate noises for each of the diving devices 100 d, e.
  • In various embodiments, each diving device 100 (e.g., 100 a, b, c, d, e) may be made of polymer material. For example, the diving device 100 may be made of a plastic material or a rubbery material. In various embodiments, each diving device 100 may be firm in the middle and softer about the exterior of the diving device. For example, in some embodiments, each diving device may have a portion in the interior of the diving device that is relatively firmer than the exterior surface of the diving device. For example, the diving device 100 may be configured to hold its shape, but may have a little give when pressed.
  • In various embodiments, the firmer interior portion of the diving device may house circuitry 110. In various embodiments, the circuitry 120 may comprise a power source (e.g., a battery), a speaker, a light emitting diode (LED), associated switches and/or dials 110 (e.g., 110 d, e) and/or the like. For example, the circuitry 120 may comprise an electronic audio emitting component, speaker, and/or the like, for emitting an audio signal 130 (e.g., 130 a, b, c). In various embodiments, the audio signal may be a constant audio signal or a repeated pulsed audio signal.
  • In various embodiments, the circuitry 120 may comprise associated switches and/or dials 110. For example, the associated switches and/or dials 110 may comprise one or more of an on/off switch (e.g., a toggle switch, on/off button, or the like), tone selector dial, frequency dial, volume dial, and/or the like. For example, a tone selector dial may allow a player or other user to select the audio signal that will be emitted by the diving device. A frequency dial may allow a player or other user to select the frequency with which the audio signal will be emitted (e.g., constantly, twice a second, once a second, every two seconds, every 5 seconds, and/or the like). The volume dial may allow a player or other user to select the volume with which the audio signal will be emitted. In one embodiment a diving device may emit a constant or blinking light (e.g., via a colored LED) in place of or in addition to emitting an audio signal. In one embodiment, the diving device 100 may comprise a sensor which determines when the diving device 100 is underwater and the circuitry 120 may cause the diving device to emit an audio signal and/or light in response to detecting that the diving device 100 is underwater. In various embodiments, the diving device 100 may be configured so that the power source (e.g., battery) is replaceable. In various embodiments, each diving device 100 of the set of diving devices 1000 may emit a distinct audio signal with respect to the other diving devices of the set of diving devices.
  • In various embodiments, the diving device 100 may be configured to emit an audio signal via means or components other than circuitry 120. For example, in various embodiments, the diving device 100 may comprise a mechanical audio emitting component, such as a wind-up audio emitting component. For example, a user may turn a dial or knob causing a spring or other component within the device to store energy that is later used to drive a mechanical audio emitting component. For example, a click-clack sound may be produced via gears, a tick-tock sound may also be produced via gears, a mechanical buzzer may generate, and/or the like may be used to emit an audio signal. Various forms of mechanical audio emitters that may be driven via a wind up mechanism or the like may be used to emit an audio signal. In various embodiments, each diving device 100 of the set of diving devices 1000 may emit a distinct audio signal with respect to the other diving devices of the set of diving devices.
  • In various embodiments, the firmer interior portion of the diving device 100 (e.g., 100 a, b, c, d, e) may be configured to store the circuitry 120 and any associated switches and/or dials 110 or a mechanical audio emitting component in a waterproof or water resistant manner. For example, the diving device 100 may be configured to prevent water from reaching the circuitry 120 during the regular use of the diving device.
  • In various embodiments, the diving device 100 (e.g., 100 a, b, c, d, e) may be configured to move along the bottom surface of the body of water 50 or otherwise move through the body of water. For example, the diving device 100 may comprise a wheel, propeller, or jet propeller configured to allow the diving device 100 to move along the bottom surface of the body of water 50 or otherwise through the body of water. In such embodiments, the circuitry 120 may comprise a portion configured to cause the diving device 100 to move (e.g., through the use a wheel, propeller, jet propeller, and/or the like) if the diving device 100 has been under water for a threshold amount of time (e.g., after one minute, and/or the like). For example, the diving device 100 may have a foam propeller that may cause the diving device to move approximately five feet through the body of water every three minutes.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a set of devices 2000. Each diving device 200 (e.g., 200 a, b, c) is similar to diving device 100 (e.g., 100 a, b, c, d, e) but further comprises a clip 240 (e.g., 240 a, b, c). In various embodiments, clip 240 may be configured to attach a diving ring 80 (e.g. 80 a, b, c) and/or other object to the diving device 200. For example, a diving ring 80 may be secured to each diving device 200 (e.g., via the clip 240) before the diving device 200 is tossed into the body of water 50. The diving device 200 may be weighted such that when the diving device 200 lands on the bottom surface of the body of water 50, the diving device is preferentially oriented with the clip 240 and any associated diving ring 80 are point up. In various embodiments, clip 240 lightly secures the diving ring 80 to the diving device 200 such that a player 60 may not be able to retrieve both the diving ring and the diving device simply by grabbing the diving ring. In associated methods, different point values may be assigned to retrieving the diving ring 80 and retrieving both the diving ring 80 and the diving device 200. The set of devices 2000 may allow a player 60 to use a previously owned set of diving rings to be located based on an emitted audio signal rather than visual identification of the diving ring.
  • According to various embodiments, a mounting mechanism other than that of a clip 240 may be provided, such that any of the diving devices 200 described herein may be configured to be attached to or to engage or otherwise mate with one or more associated components, which as may be toys such as dive rings, as such are commonly known and understood to involve. Other components may be envisioned, such that, as a non-limiting example, the diving devices 200 may be provided in certain embodiments with a flexible recess and/or a recessed/open channel that is sized, shaped, and configured so as to permit passage there-through of at least a portion of the associated component. As a non-limiting example, the flexible recess and/or open channel may be located on an upper surface of one of the diving devices 100 described herein, such that a diving ring (circular) may pass at least in part there-through. In this manner, upon sinking of the diving device 200, the diving ring (circular) could extend therefrom vertically, so as to provide the player 60 an element to easily grasp during use thereof, as described further below.
  • In various embodiments, the diving device 200 may be mated with other diving or swimming toys or devices. For example, in one embodiment, the diving device 200 may be mated with a larger, “swim-through” diving ring that may be configured to attract player(s) 60 by emitting an audio signal and/or by illuminating the ring (e.g., by using one or more LEDs and/or the like). Points may be awarded (as described elsewhere herein) not only for retrieving the ring, but also for the player swimming through the ring. In some embodiments, as described elsewhere herein, points may be awarded only for swimming through the ring, still further perhaps only for swimming through the ring in a particular direction.
  • In still further embodiments, the diving device 200 may be mated with a support (e.g., a cylindrical pole) for a net (e.g., a volleyball net, badminton net, or basketball hoop). In another embodiment, one end of a rope may be attached to the diving device 200 and the other end of the rope may be attached to an above or below water game such as a horizontal floating surface level “dive-through” ring, a game involving a basket, and/or the like. As should be understood, the diving device 200 may be configured to be mated with a variety of other diving or swimming toys or devices. As described elsewhere herein, points may be awarded for successful “dive-through” of the ring, whether by the player(s) or by a separate device (e.g., a ball) operated by the player(s).
  • In various embodiments, a set of diving devices may comprise diving devices 100, 200 of various sizes, shapes, or weights, devices that are configured to float or sink, configured to emit an audio signal or not, and/or the like. Indeed, each set of diving devices may comprise a unique characteristic. In other embodiments, a set of diving devices may only differ in one of size, weight, or shape. In various embodiments, a set of diving devices comprises two or more diving devices. In at least one embodiment, a set of diving devices involves three diving devices.
  • Exemplary Methods of Use of a Set of Diving Devices
  • As briefly described above, a set of diving devices may be used to play a diving game. A player 60 may be blindfolded (e.g., wear blacked out goggles or close his or her eyes) and while a thrower (e.g., another player or other person) tosses the diving devices into a body of water 50. In various embodiments, the player 60 may already be in the body of water 50 or may be near the edge of the body of water 50. The player 60 may use the distinct water entry noises of each diving device 100, 200 of the set of devices 1000, 2000 to guess an expected location of each tossed diving device 100, 200. The player 60 may then attempt to retrieve one or more of the tossed diving devices 100, 200. In embodiments in which the diving device 100, 200 emits an audio signal or light, the player 60 may use such emissions to find one or more of the tossed diving devices. The player 60 may be awarded points based on the retrieved diving devices, the time to retrieve the diving devices, the order in which the diving devices are retrieved and/or the like and/or a combination thereof.
  • FIG. 4A provides a flowchart illustrating an example method of using a set of diving devices 1000, 2000. Starting at step 402, one or more players 60 are positioned. For example, the one or more players 60 may be in the body of water 50 or near the body of water 50 but not watching the tossing of the diving devices. As another example, the players 60 may have their eyes closed, be wearing blacked out goggles, have their backs turned toward the body of water 50, and/or the like. In some embodiments, water may be added or removed from a bladder of one or more of the diving devices 100 before or as the players are being positioned.
  • At step 404, a person designated as the thrower (e.g., a player or other person) tosses two or more diving devices into the body of water 50. The diving devices may be tossed at the same time, one immediately after another, or with a small pause (1-10 seconds or the like) between the tossing of diving devices. Each diving device may be tossed into an undisclosed location within the body of water 50.
  • At step 406, the player(s) 60 listen for the distinct water entry noise of at least one diving device. For example, the player(s) 60 may listen for the distinct water entry noise of a particular diving device 100, all of the diving devices 100 of the set of diving devices 1000, and/or the like. In certain embodiments, however the player(s) may be underwater prior to tossing of the devices; thus, no listening for distinct water entry noises would occur; instead, in at least those embodiments, the player(s) would listen for underwater emissions (e.g., audio).
  • At step 406, as each diving device makes a distinct water entry noise when incident upon the water and the players 60 listen therefor, the one or more players 60 may further mentally note the location (based upon perceived sound characteristics) of each distinct water entry noise. This serves to aid the players' attempts at recovering the two or more tossed diving devices in step 408, as described below. In this regard, to reiterate, the player(s) 60 attempts to recover at least one of the two or more tossed diving devices may be guided by the player(s) interpretation of the distinct water entry noises of the two or more tossed diving devices. In various embodiments the one or more players' 60 efforts to retrieve at least one of the two or more diving devices may be timed or constrained by a predetermined time limit, as may influence points awarded, as described below.
  • At step 410, points are awarded to the one or more players 60 for the diving device(s) the players retrieved. In various embodiments, the points awarded may depend upon the diving device(s) retrieved (e.g., the largest diving device 100 of the set of diving devices 1000 may be assigned a lower or higher point value than a smaller diving device 100 of the set of diving device 1000, and/or the like), the time to retrieve each diving device, the time to complete retrieval of all the diving devices, the order in which the diving devices were retrieved, and/or the like, and/or any combination thereof.
  • FIG. 4B provides a flowchart illustrating another example method of using a set of diving devices 1000, 2000. Starting at step 452, one or more players 60 are positioned. For example, the one or more players 60 may be in the body of water 50 or near the body of water 50 but not watching the tossing of the diving devices. For example, the players 60 may have their eyes closed, being wearing blacked out goggles, have their backs turned toward the body of water 50, and/or the like. In one example embodiment, the one or more players 60 may be underwater.
  • At step 454, the audio emitting component may be turned on, initiated, wound up, and/or the like. For example, the thrower (or other user) may turn a dial or knob to wind up or otherwise energize a mechanical audio emitting component. In another example, the thrower (or other user), may press an on button, rotate a selector dial, and/or the like to turn on an audio emitting component.
  • At step 456, a person designated as the thrower (e.g., a player or other person) tosses two or more diving devices into the body of water 50. The diving devices may be tossed at the same time, one immediately after another, or with a small pause (1-10 seconds or the like) between the tossing of diving devices. Each diving device may be tossed into an undisclosed location within the body of water 50.
  • At step 458, the player(s) 60 listen for the distinct audio signal of at least one diving device. For example, the player(s) 60 may listen for the distinct audio signal of a particular diving device 100, all of the diving devices 100 of the set of diving devices 1000, and/or the like. At step 460, the one or more players 60 attempt to recover at least one of the two or more tossed diving devices. In various embodiments, the player(s) 60 attempts to retrieve at least one of the two or more tossed devices may be guided by the player's interpretation of the distinct audio signals emitted by one or more of the two or more tossed diving devices. In various embodiments the one or more players' 60 efforts to retrieve at least one of the two or more diving devices may be timed or constrained by a predetermined time limit.
  • At step 462, points are awarded to the one or more players 60 for the diving device(s) the players retrieved. In various embodiments, the points awarded may depend upon the diving device(s) retrieved (e.g., the largest diving device 100 of the set of diving devices 1000 may be assigned a lower or higher point value than a smaller diving device 100 of the set of diving device 1000, and/or the like), the time to retrieve each diving device, the time to complete retrieval of all the diving devices, the order in which the diving devices were retrieved, and/or the like, and/or any combination thereof.
  • In some embodiments, a method of using a set of diving devices 1000, 2000 may include both listening for one or more distinct water entry noises and listening for one or more distinct audio signals. In such embodiments, the player(s) 60 attempts to retrieve at least one of the two or more tossed devices may be based on the player's interpretation of the one or more distinct water entry noises and/or the one or more distinct audio signals.
  • In various embodiments, the one or more players 60 may be organized into teams or may play as individuals. In some embodiments, each player 60 may take a turn attempting to retrieve at least one of the two or more tossed diving devices. In some embodiments two or more players 60 may attempt to retrieve at least one of the two or more tossed diving devices at the same time. In some embodiments, if a first player 60 cannot retrieve at least one of the two or more tossed diving devices within a predetermined time limit, a second player 60 (of the same team or on a different team) may attempt to retrieve at least one of the two or more tossed diving devices.
  • In various embodiments, as described previously herein, the devices may not only make different water entry noises when incident upon the water, such may, when underwater (and/or when above water and being thrown) emit differing sound frequency signals. The players 60 may further differentiate the devices thereupon, such that differing point values may be awarded based upon the level of the frequencies of each of the devices. Frequencies may be higher and lower or alternatively louder and softer relative to one another, and/or any of a variety of alternative configurations, provided distinctions there-between may be perceived by the players at least when pursuing the devices underwater. In certain embodiments, the frequency emissions may be the only distinction perceivable by the user, for example wherein otherwise the size, shape, weight, and the like of the devices may be the same. In this manner, a “game” emphasizing audible listening skills for emitted sounds may be provided, as compared to a “game” that emphasizes audible listening skills relative to noises made upon entry into water (i.e., “kerplunk” sounds).
  • CONCLUSION
  • Of course, many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims (23)

That which is claimed:
1. A set of diving devices comprising:
two or more diving devices, each diving device being configured to be tossed into a body of water and, upon being incident upon the surface of the body of water, cause a water entry noise that is distinct from water entry noises corresponding to each of the other diving devices in the set of diving devices, wherein the distinct water entry noise is due at least in part to at least one of a size of the diving device, a shape of the diving device, a density of the diving device, or a weight of the diving device.
2. The set of diving devices of claim 1 wherein at least one diving device comprises an audio emitting component.
3. The set of diving devices of claim 2 wherein the audio emitting component is one of a mechanical audio emitting component or an electronic audio emitting component.
4. The set of diving devices of claim 1, wherein each diving device comprises:
at least one power source;
at least one audio emitter; and
at least one circuitry portion configured to be powered by the at least one power source and cause the at least one audio emitter to emit an audio signal.
5. The set of diving devices of claim 4 wherein the emitted audio signal is one of a constant audio signal or a repeating pulsed audio signal.
6. The set of diving devices of claim 4, wherein the at least one circuitry portion comprises at least one switch.
7. The set of diving devices of claim 6, wherein the at least one switch comprises an on/off switch configured to, when in the on position, cause the audio emitter to emit the audio signal, and, when in the off position, cause the audio emitter to not emit the audio signal.
8. The set of diving devices of claim 6, wherein the at least one switch comprises at least one dial, wherein the at least one dial is configured to control at least one of a volume, a frequency, a tone of the audio signal.
9. The set of diving devices of claim 4, wherein the at least one power source, at least one audio emitter, and at least one circuitry portion are housed in a waterproof or water resistant housing within the corresponding diving device.
10. The set of diving devices of claim 1, wherein each diving device is devoid of sharp edges and corners about the exterior of the diving device.
11. The set of diving devices of claim 1, wherein at least one of the diving devices is configured to float at least just above the bottom surface of a body of water.
12. The set of diving devices of claim 1, wherein at least one of the diving devices is configured to sink to the bottom surface of a body of water.
13. The set of diving devices of claim 8, wherein the at least one of the diving devices that is configured to sink to the bottom of the surface of the body of water is weighted such that the diving device has a preferred bottom side, the exterior of the preferred bottom side comprising a non-skid texture or material.
14. The set of diving devices of claim 1, wherein at least one of the diving devices comprises at least one of a clip or a recess configured to at least one of attach or receive an external component upon the diving device.
15. The set of diving devices of claim 1, wherein at least one of the diving devices is at least one of mound-shaped, hockey puck-shaped, or star fish-shaped.
16. The set of diving devices of claim 1, wherein at least one of the diving devices comprises an internal bladder for adjusting at least one of the weight or the buoyancy of the diving device.
17. A method of using a set of diving devices, the method comprising:
providing a set of diving devices, the set of diving devices comprising two or more diving devices, each diving device being configured to be tossed into a body of water and, upon being incident upon the surface of the body of water, cause a water entry noise that is distinct from water entry noises corresponding to each of the other diving devices in the set of diving devices, wherein the distinct water entry noise is do at least in part to at least one of a size of the diving device, a shape of the diving device, a density of the diving device, or a weight of the diving device;
tossing at least two of the diving devices of the set of diving devices into a body of water;
attempting to retrieve at least one of the diving devices from the body of water based at least in part on the distinct water entry noise associated with each diving device; and
awarding points for retrieval of at least one of the diving devices from the body of water.
18. The method of claim 17 wherein the points awarded are based at least in part on at least one of the at least one diving device retrieved, an order of retrieval of the at least one diving device, and a time to retrieve the at least one diving device.
19. The method of claim 17, wherein each diving device comprises
at least one power source;
at least one audio emitter;
at least one circuitry portion configured to be powered by the at least one power source and cause the at least one audio emitter to emit an audio signal
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:
activating the audio emitter of at least one diving device to emit an audio signal;
attempting to retrieve the at least one diving device based at least in part on the emitted audio signal.
21. A method of using a set of diving devices, the method comprising:
providing a set of diving devices, the set of diving devices comprising two or more diving devices, each diving device being configured to be tossed into a body of water and comprising at least one audio emitting component configured to make an audio signal, wherein each diving device emits a distinct audio signal;
tossing at least two of the diving devices of the set of diving devices into a body of water;
attempting to retrieve at least one of the diving devices from the body of water based at least in part on the distinct audio signal associated with each diving device; and
awarding points for retrieval of at least one of the diving devices from the body of water.
22. The method of claim 21 wherein the audio emitting component is one of a mechanical audio emitting component or an electronic audio emitting component.
23. The method of claim 21 wherein the audio signal is one of a click-clack noise, a tick-tock noise, a buzz, a constant tone, or a pulsed tone.
US14/878,702 2015-10-08 2015-10-08 Diving devices configured to make and/or to emit distinct noises and associated methods for the use of the diving devices Abandoned US20170100653A1 (en)

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