You can freely build on How the Classic Operation Board Game Works
This patent expired in 1985. Every claim — 1 independent, 0 dependent — is now unenforceable. Anyone can use, reproduce, manufacture, sell, or offer for sale this technology without a license.
Original assignee
Glass Marvin and Associates
Patent granted
1967
Expired
1985
Forward citations
5
What this patent covers
The patent describes a game board featuring two parallel, electrically conductive plates separated by a gap. A path for the player is created by a series of openings in the top plate. The player uses a specialized probe—an elongated member with a spring-loaded conductive rod—to navigate these openings. If the rod touches both the top and bottom plates simultaneously, it completes an electrical circuit, which triggers an indicating signal device, such as a light or buzzer.
What is now free to use
All 1 claims of US 3333846 are in the public domain. Specifically:
Claim 1: A GAME — 1 specific element
The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.
What is NOT covered
Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.
Does not cover non-electrical games that rely purely on mechanical dexterity.
Does not cover games that use wireless sensors or cameras to track movement.
Does not cover games where the signal is triggered by something other than a direct electrical short between two plates.
Does not cover games that do not use a spring-loaded probe mechanism.
Who is building on this today
Hasbro currently owns the rights to the Operation brand and continues to iterate on the original design. Various toy manufacturers have since built upon this concept of 'steady hand' electronic games, often incorporating more complex sensors and sound effects.
Products built on expired version of this technology
The Operation board game
How to cite this patent in your documentation
Glass Marvin and Associates. US Patent 3333846. Game utilizing electric probe. Granted 1967, expired 1985. Now in the public domain.
Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.
PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.