U.S. patent application number 10/935886 was filed with the patent office on 2005-04-28 for poolside goal system.
Invention is credited to Nye, S. Curtis, Phillips, Gary.
Application Number | 20050090336 10/935886 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34527881 |
Filed Date | 2005-04-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050090336 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Nye, S. Curtis ; et
al. |
April 28, 2005 |
Poolside goal system
Abstract
A poolside goal system may allow various games or sports, such
as basketball or volleyball, to be played in a swimming pool. For
example, the poolside goal system may include a base, a goal
support, a basketball goal assembly and volleyball net assembly.
The basketball goal assembly is preferably movable between a first
position in which basketball can be played and a second position
which allows volleyball to be played. Advantageously, the
basketball goal assembly may be configured to counterbalance forces
applied to the volleyball net assembly. The poolside goal system
may also include a wheel assembly to allow the system to be readily
moved, or the goal system may be permanently secured in a fixed
position. The poolside goal system, however, does not have to be
used in connection with a swimming pool and it could be used in
other environments or situations.
Inventors: |
Nye, S. Curtis; (Clinton,
UT) ; Phillips, Gary; (Ogden, UT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WORKMAN NYDEGGER
(F/K/A WORKMAN NYDEGGER & SEELEY)
60 EAST SOUTH TEMPLE
1000 EAGLE GATE TOWER
SALT LAKE CITY
UT
84111
US
|
Family ID: |
34527881 |
Appl. No.: |
10/935886 |
Filed: |
September 8, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60501510 |
Sep 9, 2003 |
|
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|
60515764 |
Oct 30, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
473/446 ;
473/479; 473/485 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2071/025 20130101;
A63B 2071/026 20130101; A63B 63/083 20130101; A63B 2225/093
20130101; A63B 61/02 20130101; A63B 2210/50 20130101; A63B 71/023
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/446 ;
473/479; 473/485 |
International
Class: |
A63B 069/00; A63B
063/00; A63B 063/08 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A poolside goal system comprising: a goal support including at
least one elongated support member; and a basketball goal assembly
including a backboard and a rim, the basketball goal assembly being
pivotally connected to an upper portion of the goal support, the
basketball goal assembly being movable between a first position in
which the basketball goal assembly can be used for playing
basketball and a second position in which the basketball goal
assembly is pivoted about the upper portion of the goal support in
an at least partially downward direction from the first position to
the second position.
2. The poolside goal system as in claim 1, wherein the backboard
and the rim face a first direction in the first position, and the
backboard and the rim face a generally opposite direction in the
second position.
3. The poolside goal system as in claim 1, further comprising a net
assembly at least partially connected to the basketball goal
assembly, the basketball goal assembly being sized and configured
to counterbalance a force applied to the net assembly.
4. The poolside goal system as in claim 1, further comprising a net
assembly at least partially connected to the basketball goal
assembly, the basketball goal assembly being sized and configured
to move from the second position toward the first position when a
force is applied to the net assembly.
5. The poolside goal system as in claim 1, further comprising a net
assembly at least partially connected to the basketball goal
assembly; and means for counterbalancing a force applied to the net
assembly.
6. A poolside goal system comprising: a base; a basketball goal
assembly including a backboard and a rim disposed near a front face
of the backboard; and a support structure including a first support
member connected to the base and a second support member connected
to the basketball goal assembly, the first support member and the
second support member including a first position in which the front
face of the backboard and rim are generally disposed away from the
base and a second position in which the rim is disposed towards the
base.
7. The poolside goal system as in claim 6, further comprising an
alignment mechanism that facilitates connection of the first
support member and the second support member in the first position,
and facilitates connection of the first support member and the
second support member in the second position.
8. The poolside goal systems as in claim 6, further comprising a
bushing positioned between at least a portion of the first support
member and at least a portion of the second support member.
9. The poolside goal system as in claim 6, further comprising a
bushing constructed of a compressible material adapted to secure
the second support member in a position relative to the first
support member.
10. The poolside goal system as in claim 9, wherein the bushing is
sized and configured to guide the second support member to a
position relative to the first support member.
11. The poolside goal system as in claim 9, wherein second support
member includes one or more flared portions adapted to compress at
least a portion of the bushing.
12. A poolside goal system comprising: a base; a basketball goal
assembly including a backboard and a rim; a goal support including
a first support member connected to the base and a second support
member connected to the basketball goal assembly; and one or more
engaging members integrally formed in the goal support, the
engaging members being sized and configured to releasably connect
the first support member and the second support member.
13. The poolside goal system as in claim 12, wherein the one or
more engaging members include one or more notches.
14. The poolside goal system as in claim 12, wherein the one or
more engaging members are sized and configured to releasably secure
the second support member in a plurality of positions relative to
the first support member.
15. The poolside goal system as in claim 12, wherein the one or
more engaging members are sized and configured to secure the second
support member in a first rotational position relative to the first
support member and to secure the second support member in a second
rotational position relative to the first support member.
16. A goal system comprising: a first support structure including a
base, a support structure and a basketball goal assembly, the
support structure including a first support member connected to the
base and a second support member connected to the basketball goal
assembly, the basketball goal assembly being movable between a
first position in which basketball is capable of being played and a
second position; a second support structure including a base, a
support structure and a basketball goal assembly, the support
structure including a first support member connected to the base
and a second support member connected to the basketball goal
assembly, the basketball goal assembly being movable between a
first position in which basketball is capable of being played and a
second position; and a net assembly connected to the first support
structure and connected to the second support structure, the net
assembly including a net and at least one line connecting the net
to at least one of the support structures.
17. The poolside goal system as in claim 16, wherein the basketball
goal assembly including a backboard and a rim; and wherein the
backboard and the rim face a first direction when the basketball
goal assembly is in the first position, and the backboard and the
rim face a generally opposite direction when the basketball goal
assembly is in the second position.
18. The poolside goal system as in claim 16, wherein the net
assembly is at least partially connected to the basketball goal
assembly of the first support structure and the second support
structure, the basketball goal assembly of the first support
structure and the basketball goal assembly of the second support
structure being sized and configured to counterbalance a force
applied to the net assembly.
19. The poolside goal system as in claim 16, wherein the net
assembly is at least partially connected to the basketball goal
assembly of the first support structure and the second support
structure, the basketball goal assembly of the first support
structure and the second support structure being sized and
configured to move from the second position toward the first
position when a force is applied to the net assembly.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/501,510, entitled
POOLSIDE GOAL SUPPORT, which was filed on Sep. 9, 2003, and this
application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. provisional
patent application Ser. No. 60/515,764, entitled POOLSIDE GOAL
SUPPORT, which was filed on Oct. 30, 2003, both of which are hereby
incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention generally relates to a goal system
and, in particular, to a poolside goal system.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the United
States and throughout the world. The popularity of basketball is so
widespread that it is even played in swimming pools. The popularity
of playing basketball in a swimming pool has given rise to the
development of poolside basketball systems. Disadvantageously,
conventional poolside basketball systems may require installation
of obstructive, permanent facilities or structures, and
conventional poolside basketball systems may require substantial
modifications to existing facilities or structures.
[0006] Volleyball is also a very popular sport, which has given
rise to the development of poolside volleyball systems.
Disadvantageously, conventional poolside volleyball systems may
require installation of obstructive, permanent facilities or
structures, and conventional poolside volleyball systems may
require substantial modifications to existing facilities or
structures. Known poolside volleyball systems may also be temporary
structures that are only used when volleyball is being played in a
swimming pool. Unfortunately, many conventional poolside volleyball
systems do not securely support the volleyball net and if an
excessive force is applied to the net, the net may collapsed and/or
portions of the volleyball system may be pulled into the pool. In
addition, many conventional poolside volleyball systems may allow
the net to break or otherwise be damaged if excessive force is
applied to the net.
SUMMARY
[0007] A need therefore exists for a poolside goal system that
eliminates the above-described disadvantages and problems.
[0008] One aspect of an exemplary embodiment is a poolside goal
system that may be used to play basketball in a swimming pool. For
example, the poolside goal system may include a basketball rim, net
and backboard to facilitate shooting a basketball and playing
basketball in a swimming pool. Of course, because the game is being
played in a swimming pool, a conventional basketball may not be
used and other suitable type of balls may be used. In addition,
because the game is being played in a swimming pool, the poolside
goal system may have different sizes, characteristics and the like
than a conventional basketball system. In particular, the poolside
goal system may have different heights and dimensions to allow, for
example, a ball to be more easily shot at the basketball while in a
swimming pool.
[0009] Another aspect is a poolside goal system that may be used to
play volleyball or other games that use a net. For example, the
poolside goal system may be used to support a net or other type of
structure to allow volleyball or other games to be played in a
swimming pool. In particular, the poolside goal system may include
two support structures that are placed on opposing sides or ends of
a pool to support the net. On the other hand, the poolside goal
system may include only a single support structure and the other
end of the net may be connected to another structure such as a wall
or pole.
[0010] A further aspect is a poolside goal system that may allow
one or more games to be played. For example, the poolside goal
system may include a basketball rim, net and/or backboard to allow
basketball to be played. The poolside goal system may also allow a
net or other structure to be supported so that games such as
volleyball may be played. Thus, the poolside goal system may allow
two or more different games or sports to be played.
[0011] Another aspect is a poolside goal system that may include a
base, a goal support, and a basketball goal assembly. The
basketball goal assembly may include, for example, a backboard and
rim. Advantageously, the height of the basketball goal assembly may
be varied, if desired. This may allow, for example, persons of
different skills, ages and abilities to play basketball. In
addition, the basketball goal assembly may include a pivotal or
movable type rim, such as a break-away rim, to allow forces applied
to the rim to be absorbed. Further, the position of the basketball
goal assembly may be adjusted or moved to suit the desires of the
user. For instance, the basketball goal assembly may have a first
position to facilitate playing basketball and a second position
when basketball is not being played. This second position may allow
the goal system to be more easily moved and/or stored. This second
position may also allow other sports to be played, such as
volleyball or other activities.
[0012] Still another aspect is a poolside goal system that may
include a structure that allows a net to be attached to the goal
system. For example, the goal system may include a net assembly
that allows a net to be readily attached. This may allow games such
as volleyball to be played. Preferably, the poolside goal system
includes both the structure that allows a net to be readily
attached and a basketball goal assembly so that the goal system may
be used to play multiple games or sports, such as basketball and
volleyball. Advantageously, the poolside goal system could also be
used in connection with other sports that utilize a net and/or
backboard.
[0013] Yet another aspect is a poolside goal system may include a
base, a support structure, and a basketball goal assembly connected
to the support structure. The support structure may include a
plurality of support members that are interconnected. For example,
the support structure may include a first support member that is
connected to the base and a second support member that is connected
to the basketball goal assembly. Desirably, the first and second
support members can be connected in various positions to allow the
basketball goal assembly to be connected in various positions
relative to the base. This may facilitate positioning the
basketball goal assembly in a variety of positions to suit a user's
particular purpose. A bushing, or other suitable structure, may be
used to connect the support members. In addition, one or more of
the support members may include engaging members, which may be
sized and configured to selectively secure the support members in a
desired position,
[0014] A further aspect is a poolside goal system may include a
base, a support structure and a basketball goal assembly. The
basketball goal assembly may be movably connected to the support
structure, which may facilitate positioning the basketball goal
assembly in a variety of positions to suit a user's purposes. For
example, the basketball goal assembly may be pivotally attached to
the support structure.
[0015] A still further aspect is a poolside goal system that may
include a base, a support structure and a net assembly that is
sized and configured to be attached to a net. Advantageously, the
net assembly may be directly or indirectly connected to a
basketball goal assembly. Significantly, the basketball goal
assembly may be used to counterbalance forces applied to the net
assembly. This may create, for example, a relatively stable
poolside goal system and it may help prevent damage to the net
and/or net assembly.
[0016] Another aspect is a volleyball system that may include a
first support structure, a second support structure, and a
volleyball net that is connected to the first and second support
structures. The volleyball net may be connected to the support
structures by one or more straps and buckles. Advantageously, the
volleyball system may be used in connection with a swimming pool to
allow volleyball to be played in a swimming pool. The volleyball
system may also be used outdoors and in other environments to allow
volleyball to be played on surfaces such as sand, grass, cement,
pavement and hardwood courts.
[0017] Still another aspect is a poolside goal system that may be
used in connection with an anchor assembly. The anchor assembly may
include one or more anchors and one or more anchor lines.
Advantageously, the anchor assembly may help secure the poolside
goal system in a desired position and/or location.
[0018] Yet another aspect is a poolside goal system that may
include a base with a hollow interior portion that provides for a
relatively lightweight assembly. The base may include a removable
fill/drain plug that allows the hollow interior portion to be
filled with ballast such as water. When the hollow portion of the
base is filled with ballast, the stability of the goal system may
be enhanced.
[0019] A further aspect is a poolside goal assembly that may
include a basketball goal assembly with a backboard. The backboard
is preferably constructed from blow-molded plastic, but other
materials with suitable characteristics could be used to construct
the backboard. The blow-molded plastic backboard may advantageously
be formed as an integral, one-piece structure. The blow-molded
plastic backboard may also include one or more depressions formed
in the backboard and the depressions may be sized and configured to
increase the strength and rigidity of the backboard.
[0020] A still further aspect is a poolside goal system that may
include a wheel assembly to facilitate movement of the goal system.
The wheel assembly may include one or more wheels, rollers,
casters, sliders or the like that are sized and configured to allow
the goal system to be moved from one location to another location.
The goal system may also include two or more wheel assemblies to
facilitate movement of the system.
[0021] Advantageously, the poolside goal system may be constructed
with relative few components and it may be quickly and easily
assembled. In addition, the poolside goal system may provide a
relatively stationary and secure structure. Desirably, the goal
system may provide stable support for a basketball goal and/or a
volleyball net. Further, the goal system may be quickly and easily
moved from one location or another location.
[0022] These and other aspects, features and advantages of the
invention will become more fully apparent from the following
detailed description of preferred embodiments and appended
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] The appended drawings contain figures of preferred
embodiments to further clarify the above and other aspects,
advantages and features of the present invention. It will be
appreciated that these drawings depict only preferred embodiments
of the invention and are not intended to limits its scope. The
invention will be described and explained with additional
specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings
in which:
[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a
poolside goal system, illustrating the poolside goal system
configured to play basketball;
[0025] FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the poolside goal
system shown in FIG. 1, illustrating the poolside goal system
configured to support a structure such as a volleyball net;
[0026] FIG. 3 is a perspective, exploded view of the poolside goal
system shown in FIG. 1;
[0027] FIG. 4 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a
volleyball net assembly, the volleyball net assembly preferably
being sized and configured to be attached to a poolside goal
system;
[0028] FIG. 5 is an enlarged front view of a portion of the
volleyball net assembly shown in FIG. 4, illustrating a line and a
portion of the net;
[0029] FIG. 6 is an enlarged front view of a portion of the
volleyball net assembly shown in FIG. 4, illustrating a line and a
portion of the net;
[0030] FIG. 7 is an enlarged, perspective view of a portion of an
exemplary embodiment of a volleyball net assembly;
[0031] FIG. 8A is an enlarged, perspective view of an exemplary
embodiment of a portion of a frame assembly that may be used in
connection with a poolside goal system;
[0032] FIG. 8B is an enlarged, perspective view of the portion of
the frame assembly shown in FIG. 8A, illustrating a pin removed
from frame assembly;
[0033] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a poolside goal system, illustrating a basketball goal assembly
pivoting from a first position to a second position;
[0034] FIG. 9B is another perspective view of the poolside goal
system shown in FIG. 9A, illustrating the basketball goal assembly
in the second position;
[0035] FIG. 9C is still another perspective view of the poolside
goal system shown in FIG. 9A, including a net assembly attached to
the goal system;
[0036] FIG. 9D is yet another perspective view of the poolside goal
system shown in FIG. 9C, illustrating a force being applied to the
net assembly and the basketball goal assembly pivoting upwardly;
and
[0037] FIG. 10 is a cross sectional side view of a portion of an
exemplary embodiment of a support member of a poolside goal
system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0038] The present invention is generally directed towards a
poolside goal system. The principles of the present invention,
however, are not limited to a poolside goal system. It will be
understood that, in light of the present disclosure, the poolside
goal system could be used in connection with other suitable
environments and situations. For example, the goal system does not
have to be used with a swimming pool. In addition, the goal system
could be used in connection with other types of sports, sporting
equipment, and the like.
[0039] Additionally, to assist in the description of the poolside
goal system, words such as top, bottom, front, rear, right and left
are used to describe the accompanying figures. It will be
appreciated, however, that the poolside goal system can be located
in a variety of desired positions. It will also be appreciated that
while the drawings are diagrammatic and schematic representations
of exemplary embodiments of the poolside goal system, the drawings
should not be considered as limiting the scope of the poolside goal
system and the drawings are not necessarily to scale.
[0040] As shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, an exemplary embodiment of the
poolside goal system 10 may include a base 12, a goal support 14,
and a basketball goal assembly 16. Thus, this exemplary embodiment
of the poolside goal system may be used to play basketball. One of
ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the poolside goal
system 10 may be sized and configured for other uses and to play
other sports, such as volleyball.
[0041] Preferably, the base 12 includes a body with a top, a
bottom, a first end, and a second end, but the base may other
suitable configurations. The base 12 may also include a hollow
interior portion and the base may include one or more fill/drain
openings in communication with the generally hollow interior
portion of the base. The fill/drain openings may allow the base 12
to be filled with suitable ballast materials, such as water or
sand, which may help secure the poolside goal system 10 in a
desired position. As shown in FIG. 3, one or more plugs 13a, 13b
may be used to seal the one or more fill/drain openings in the base
12.
[0042] The base 12 is preferably constructed from plastic, such as
polyethylene, and the base is preferably constructed from
blow-molded plastic. The base 12 could also be constructed from
other suitable type of plastic and other materials, and the base
could also be formed using other suitable methods such as injection
molding, compression molding, rotary molding, and the like. One of
ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the base 12 can have
various sizes and configurations depending, for example, upon the
intended use of the goal system 10.
[0043] The poolside goal system 10 may include one or more braces
that help connect the goal support 14 to the base 12. For example,
as shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, braces 18a, 18b may be connected to
the base 12 using fasteners 20a, 20b, respectively. The braces 18a,
18b may be connected to the goal support 14 by a fastener 22. In
particular, in order to secure the braces 18a and 18b to the goal
support 14, the fastener 22 may be inserted through generally
aligned holes formed in the braces 18a, 18b and the goal support
14. In greater detail, as shown in FIG. 3, the braces 18a, 18b may
include holes or openings 24a, 24b respectively that are aligned
with a pair of holes or openings 26 in the goal support 14. One of
ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the goal support 14
could be connected to the base 12 in any suitable manner and using
any suitable components. Accordingly, while braces 18a, 18b may be
used to secure the goal support 14 to the base 12, the braces are
not required.
[0044] The poolside goal system 10 may include one or more anchor
assemblies 28 to help stabilize and/or restrict the movement of the
poolside goal system 10. As shown in FIG. 3, an anchor assembly 28
may be located on opposing sides of the base and each anchor
assembly may include an anchor 30a, 30b, respectively. The anchors
30a, 30b are preferably sized and configured to be attached to a
support surface such as the ground, swimming pool deck, or the
like. Preferably, the anchor assemblies 28 are selectively attached
to the support surface to allow the poolside goal system 10 to be
moved, if desired. The anchor assemblies 28, however, may be sized
and configured to permanently attach the poolside goal system 10 in
a fixed position.
[0045] In greater detail, the anchor assembles 28 may include
anchors 30a, 30b that are preferably sized and configured to be
attached to a structure such as a cement floor. The anchor
assemblies 28 may also include one or more lines 32a, 32b (such as,
chains, rope, cables, cords, and the like) that are sized and
configured to be attached to the anchors 30a and 30b. As shown in
FIG. 3, one or more fasteners, such as bolts 34a, 34b, may be used
to connect the lines 32a, 32b to the anchors 30a, 30b,
respectively. Advantageously, the fasteners 20a, 20b, which are
used to connect the braces 18a, 18b to the base 12, may also be
used to connect the lines 32a, 32b to the base. One of ordinary
skill in the art will appreciate that the anchor assemblies 28 may
have other suitable arrangements and configurations. In addition,
although the accompanying figures illustrate the poolside goal
system 10 as including two anchor assemblies 28, the goal system
could have any suitable number of anchor systems and the goal
system does not require the use of the anchor system. Other
exemplary embodiments of anchors and anchor systems that may be
used in connection with the poolside goal system 10 are shown in
Assignee's U.S. Pat. No. 6,776,734, entitled Ground-Anchored Base
for a Portable Basketball Goal Assembly, which issued on Aug. 17,
2004, and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0046] The poolside goal system 10 may include one or more wheel
assemblies 36 to allow the poolside goal system to be conveniently
moved from one desired location to another desired location, which
may make the poolside goal system readily portable. As best seen in
FIG. 3, the poolside goal system 10 may include a wheel assembly 36
disposed near the front of the base 12 and proximate the goal
support 14. The wheel assembly 36 may include two wheels 38a, 38b
attached to an axle 40, but the wheel assembly could include any
suitable number or type of wheels, rollers, casters, sliders, and
the like. The axle 40 may be inserted into one or more holes or
openings 42 formed in goal support 14 and the ends of the axle may
be disposed within one or more openings or slots in the base 12.
One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the wheel
assembly 36 may be connected to the base 12 and/or goal support 14
in accordance with other suitable configurations and arrangements.
Further, the wheel assembly 36 may be movable or pivotal relative
to the base to allow, for example, the goal system 10 to be more
easily turned while being moved. Other exemplary embodiments of
wheel assemblies that may be used in connection with the goal
system 10 are disclosed in Assignee's U.S. Pat. No. 6,432,003,
entitled Adjustable Wheel Engagement Assembly for Basketball Goal
Systems, which issued on Aug. 13, 2002; U.S. Pat. No. 6,656,065,
entitled Wheel Mounted Adjustable Roller Support Assembly for a
Basketball Goal System, which issued on Dec. 2, 2003; pending
application Ser. No. 10/212,443, entitled Adjustable Wheel
Engagement Assembly for Basketball Goal Systems, which was filed on
Aug. 5, 2002; and pending application Ser. No. 10/648,174, entitled
Wheel Mounted Adjustable Roller Support Assembly for a Basketball
Goal System, which was filed on Aug. 26, 2003. Each of these
patents and applications are hereby incorporated by reference in
their entireties. While these wheel assemblies 36 may help
facilitate movement of the poolside goal system 10, the poolside
goal system does not require any wheels or wheel assembly.
[0047] As discussed above, the poolside goal system 10 is
preferably used in connection with the basketball goal assembly 16,
which may include a backboard or rebound member 44 and a basketball
rim or goal 46. The basketball rim 46 may have a break-away or
movable configuration, but could have a fixed configuration.
[0048] The backboard 44 is preferably constructed from plastic and
is preferably formed by blow-molding. The backboard 44 may include
a hollow interior portion that is formed during the blow-molding
process. Advantageously, the generally hollow, blow-molded plastic
backboard 44 may be relatively lightweight, which may help reduce
shipping costs and may make it easier to assemble the goal system
10. The interior portions of the backboard 44 may optionally be
filled with materials, such as foam, if desired. Of course, the
backboard 44 need not be hollow and it could be constructed from a
variety of other materials having any desired characteristic. In
addition, the backboard 44 could be constructed from other suitable
materials and processes.
[0049] As shown in the accompanying figures, the backboard 44 may
include one or more depressions 48 that are formed on the rear
surface of the backboard. The depressions 48 are preferably sized
and configured to increase the strength and/or rigidity of the
backboard 44. Advantageously, the depressions 48 may help create a
backboard 44 with more uniform characteristics, which may create a
backboard that provides a more consistent rebound. The depressions
48 may extend from the rear surface of the backboard 44 toward the
front surface of the backboard. The depressions 48 may contact or
engage the front surface of the backboard 44, but the depressions
may also be spaced from the front surface of the backboard. It will
be appreciated that the backboard 44 does not require any
depressions.
[0050] The backboard 44 may include one or more bosses. For
example, as shown in FIG. 3, the backboard may include bosses 50a,
50b, 50c, 50d that are preferably sized and configured to receive
one or more screws, bolts, or other suitable fasteners. The bosses
50a, 50b, 50c, 50d are preferably sized and located to facilitate
attachment of the backboard 44 to the goal system 10. Of course,
the backboard 44 could include any suitable number of bosses 50a,
50b, 50c, 50d, including zero, and the bosses could be in any
desired locations.
[0051] The goal support 14 of the poolside goal system 10 may
include one or more posts or elongated support members. For
example, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, the goal support 14 may
include a first elongated support member 52 and a second elongated
support member 54. The first support member 52 may be connected to
the base 12 using any suitable means and in any suitable fashion,
and the second support member 54 may be connected to the basketball
goal assembly 16 using any suitable means and in any suitable
fashion. The first and second support members 52, 54 preferably
comprise generally hollow tubes with a generally circular
cross-section, but the support members need not be hollow and could
have an oval, square, or other suitable configurations depending,
for example, upon the intended use or purpose of the goal support
14.
[0052] The first support member 52 is preferably movably coupled to
the second support member 54. For example, a portion of the second
support member 54 may be inserted into the first support member 52,
and the second support member may be rotated relative to the first
support member. This may allow the second support member 54 to be
positioned at any number of suitable locations relative to the
first support member 52. In addition, this may allow the basketball
goal assembly 16, which is connected to the second support member
54, to be positioned at any number of suitable locations relative
to the first support member 52. For example, the support member 54
may be rotated or otherwise moved from a first, use position (such
as the position shown in FIG. 1) in which the basketball goal
assembly positioned for use and a second position (such as the
position shown in FIG. 2) in which the basketball goal assembly is
positioned away from the first position. Similarly, when desired,
the support member 54 may be rotated or otherwise moved from the
second position to the first position. Of course, the support
member 54 and/or the basketball goal assembly 16 may be positioned
in any other desired position depending, for example, upon the
intended purpose of the poolside goal system 10.
[0053] Because the support member 54 and/or the basketball goal
assembly 16 may be positioned in a variety of positions, a user may
position the basketball goal assembly 16 for playing basketball
and, when finished playing basketball, may reposition the
basketball goal assembly 16 in a less obstructive position. This
may also allow the goal system 10 to be used for purposes other
than basketball. For example, as discussed in more detail below,
the poolside goal system 10 may also be configured for playing
volleyball. It may be advantageous to move the basketball goal
assembly 16 to a position (such as, the position shown in FIG. 2)
that will less likely interfere with the volleyball play or other
activities.
[0054] The support members 52, 54 are preferably selectively locked
in a fixed position so that the support members do not
inadvertently move relative to each other. For example, the support
member 52, 54 may include one or more engaging members that are
sized and configured to prevent, hinder, obstruct, lock or
otherwise restrict the relative movement of the support members 52,
54. In particular, as best shown in FIG. 3, the engaging members
may include a pair or grooves or notches 56 formed in the lower
portion of the second support member 54. The notches 56 are
preferably sized and configured to engage the fastener 22 such that
the fastener is disposed within the notch. Thus, when the second
support member 54 is inserted into the end of the first support
member 52, the fastener 22 is preferably disposed within the
notches 56 and that prevents the second support member from
rotating relative to the first support member. To move the second
support member 54 relative to the first support member 52, a user
may lift the second support member such that the fastener 22 is no
longer disposed within the notch 56. The user may then rotate the
second support member 54 relative to the first support member 52
into a second position. The user can then insert the end of the
second support member 54 into the first support member 52 such that
the fastener 22 is disposed within the notches 56 in a different
orientation.
[0055] The first and second support members 52, 54 are preferably
movable between a first position in which the basketball goal
assembly 16 is in a first, use position and a second position in
which the basketball goal assembly is positioned away from the
first position. As shown in FIG. 1, the first, use position of the
basketball goal assembly 16 may include the basketball rim 46
disposed away from the base 12 to allow basketball to be played.
The second position, as shown in FIG. 2, may include the basketball
rim 46 disposed towards the base 12 and the second position may be
generally opposite the first position. One of ordinary skill in the
art will appreciate that the first and second support members 52,
54 may have other suitable positions. One of ordinary skill in the
art will also appreciate that a variety of different types of
engaging members (such as, protrusions, bumps, grooves, channels,
edges, surfaces, and the like) may be formed in the first support
member 52 and/or second support member 54, and the engaging members
may be used to restrict the movement of the support members 52, 54
in any suitable fashion. It will also be appreciated that the
engaging members may be integrally formed as part of a support
member or could be connected to a support member.
[0056] Advantageously, the engaging members may help avoid
misalignment of the support members 52, 54. The engaging members
may also facilitate assembly and/or use of the goal system 10.
Additionally, the engaging members may facilitate use of the goal
system 10. For example, a basketball player might inadvertently
contact or intentionally hang on the basketball rim 46 and that
could twist the support member 54 and the basketball goal assembly
16 to a position unsuitable for play. If this occurs, play must be
halted while the basketball goal assembly 16 is being located in
the proper position. Thus, the engaging members may restrict the
movement of the basketball goal assembly 16 and may help avoid
unintentional misalignment of the basketball goal assembly. It will
be appreciated, however, that engaging members are not required and
the support members 52, 54 could be connected in any suitable
fashion. Further, the goal support 14 could include a unitary,
one-piece support structure, if desired.
[0057] A bushing 58 may be positioned between the first and second
support members 52, 54. In particular, as shown in FIG. 3, at least
a portion of the bushing 58 may contact the upper end of the first
support member 52 and at least a portion of the bushing may contact
the second support member 54. The bushing 58 may be sized and
configured to facilitate connection of the first and second support
members 52, 54, and the bushing may help position the first and
second support members in the desired locations. The bushing 58 may
be constructed of a compressible material, which may be used, for
example, to provide a compression fit between the first and second
support members 52, 54. Thus, for example, the second support
member 54 may compress at least a portion of the bushing 58 into
the inner wall of the first support member 52. The second support
member 54 may also have one, two or more portions that are sized
and configured to compress at least a portion of bushing 58. The
compression fit may advantageously help restrict the relative
movement of the first and second support members 52, 54, which may
help prevent unintentional movement of the basketball goal assembly
16. In addition, the bushing 58 may provide a bearing surface
between the first and second support members 52, 54. For instance,
if the bushing 58 is not used, the first and second support members
52, 54 could rub against each other as they are rotated, which
could wear down or damage the support members. Thus, the bushing 58
may advantageously reduce the wear and deterioration that could
occur when the first and second support members are in contact. One
of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other suitable
types of bushing 58 and other similar structures could be
positioned between the first and second support members 52, 54, but
the poolside goal system 10 does not require any bushings.
[0058] A frame assembly 60 is preferably used to connect the goal
support 14 and the basketball goal assembly 16. As shown in FIGS. 2
and 3, the frame assembly 60 may include a frame 62 with one or
more support arms, such as, support arms 64a, 64b. The frame 62 is
preferably connected to the goal support 14 by fasteners such as
bolts 66a, 66b. In particular, the support arms 64a, 64b may
include holes or openings 68a, 68b, respectively, and these
openings may be generally aligned with corresponding holes or
openings 70 in the second support member 54 of the goal support 14.
Accordingly, the fastener 66a may be inserted through the openings
68a, 68b and 70 to attach the support arms 64a, 64b to the second
support member 54. Similarly, the support arms 64a, 64b may include
holes or openings 72a, 72b, respectively, and these openings may be
generally aligned with corresponding holes or openings 74 in the
second support member 54. Accordingly, the fastener 66b may be
inserted through the openings 72a, 72b and 74 to attach the support
arms 64a, 64b to the second support member. Thus, the fasteners 66a
and 66b may be used to connect the support member 54 and the frame
62. It will be appreciated, however, that the frame 62 may have
other suitable configurations depending, for example, upon the size
and configuration of the backboard 44 and/or the support member 14;
and the frame can be attached to the be connected to the goal
support 14 in other suitable manners and using other suitable
devices or means.
[0059] The frame 62 is also connected to the basketball goal
assembly 16. For example, the support arms 64a and 64b of the frame
62 may have one or more openings that are sized, positioned and
configured to align with one or more bosses formed in the backboard
44, such as the bosses 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d. One or more
fasteners, such as screws, bolts or the like, may be inserted into
the openings in the support arms 64a and 64b and engage the bosses
50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d to attach the frame 62 to the backboard 44.
It will be appreciated that the frame 62 may be connected to the
basketball goal assembly 16 in other suitable manners and using
other suitable devices or means.
[0060] As shown in FIGS. 4-6, the poolside goal system 10 may
include a net assembly 76 that allows a net, such as a volleyball
net 78, to be attached to the goal system. The volleyball net 78
may be about thirty-nine (39) inches wide and about thirty-two (32)
feet long and may be constructed of square mesh; however, the
volleyball net 78 could have any other suitable dimensions and/or
construction depending, for example, upon the intended use of the
goal system 10. The volleyball net 78 may include one or more
sleeve members 80 that extend along all or a portion of length of
the volleyball net 78. The sleeve member 80 is preferably disposed
proximate the top and/or bottom portions of the volleyball net, but
the sleeve member may also be located in other suitable locations.
In greater detail, a first sleeve member may be disposed proximate
to the top of the volleyball net 78 and a second sleeve member may
be disposed proximate to the bottom of the volleyball net 78. One
of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that any suitable type
and/or configuration of net may be used with the goal system
10.
[0061] The net assembly 76 may include one or more strap members
that are sized and configured to suspend the volleyball net 78 at a
desired height and/or to provide a desired tension in the
volleyball net 78. For example, at least a portion of a strap
member 82 may be inserted through at least a portion of the sleeve
member 80 and may be used to suspend the volleyball net 78 at any
desired height. It will be appreciated that one or both ends of the
strap member 82 may each be connected to a portion of a poolside
goal system 10, such as the goal support 14, or other suitable
support structure.
[0062] In greater detail, a first poolside goal system may be
positioned proximate a first side of the pool and a second poolside
goal system may be positioned proximate a second side of the pool.
One end of the strap member 82 may be connected to the first
poolside goal system and the other end of the strap member may be
connected to the second poolside goal system. One or both ends of
the strap member 82 could also be connected to other suitable
structures. In addition, a single poolside goal system may be
positioned on one side of the pool and one end of the strap may be
connected to the goal system while the other end of the strap may
be connected to another suitable structure.
[0063] The volleyball net 78 may be slidably or otherwise movably
coupled to the strap member 82. For example, with the strap member
82 inserted into the sleeve member 80 and the ends of the strap
member connected to one or more support structures, such as the
poolside goal system 10, the volleyball net 78 may be slid into a
desired position. The volleyball net 78, however, does not have to
be slidably or otherwise movably coupled to the strap member
82.
[0064] The strap member 82 may be constructed from a nylon webbing
and may have a width of at least about one (1) inch; however, the
strap member could be constructed of other suitable materials and
could have other suitable dimensions. Of course, the volleyball net
assembly 76 does not require the strap members 82 and other
suitable devices could be used to position the volleyball net
78.
[0065] The net assembly 76 may include one or more lines that are
sized and configured to suspend the volleyball net 78 at a desired
height and/or to provide a desired tension in the volleyball net
78. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the lower portions of
the volleyball net 78 may include rings 84a, 84b through which
lines 86a, 86b may be connected. Of course, the lines 86a, 86b
could be connected to the volleyball net 78 in any suitable
manner.
[0066] It will be appreciated that the net assembly 76 may be
connected to a poolside goal system 10 or other suitable support
structure in a variety of fashions. For example, as discussed
above, the net assembly 76 may include one or more strap members 82
and the strap members may be connected to the support member 14. In
particular, as shown in FIG. 7, a clip or bracket 88a may be
connected to the second support member 54 by a fastener 90 and the
strap member 82 may be inserted through the clip. The clip 88a is
preferably pivotally or otherwise movably connected to the fastener
90 so that the clip may pivot or move about a joint 92. The net
assembly 76 may also include a buckle 94 that is attached to the
strap member 82 and the buckle may be used to adjust the length
and/or tension of the strap member 82. Advantageously, the strap
member 82, buckle 94 and the clip 88a may allow the net to be
quickly and easily attached to the goal system 10. Additionally, as
best seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the lines 86a, 86b may be connected to
a clip 88b that is connected to the goal system 10. The clip 88b,
for example, may be connected to the wheel assembly 36. In
particular, the clip 88b may be connected to the axle 40 of the
wheel assembly by a fastener. Of course, the net assembly 76 could
have other suitable arrangements and configurations depending, for
example, upon the size and configuration of the goal system 10
and/or net 78. Further, while the straps 82, lines 86a, 86b, clips
88a, 88b, buckles 94 may be used to connected the net 78 to the
poolside goal system 10, the goal system does not require the use
of any or all of these various components.
[0067] It will be appreciated that these and other aspects of the
net assembly 76 are not limited to poolside goal systems or
volleyball systems. For example, the net assembly 76 may be used to
construct a volleyball system to play outdoors (such as on grass,
concrete, asphalt, or sand courts) or indoors (such as on hardwood
or sport courts). Also, as an example, the net assembly 76 may be
used to construct a badminton system or other sporting systems that
may use a net. Indeed, it will be appreciated that these and other
aspects of the net assembly 76 may be used in a variety of contexts
other than poolside systems and used for a variety of sports other
than volleyball.
[0068] FIGS. 8A and 8B are perspectives view of an exemplary
embodiment of a portion of a frame 162 that be used to connect a
goal support to a basketball goal assembly. The frame 162 may
include one or more support arms, such as support arms 164a and
164b, and the frame 162 may be connected to an elongated support
member 154 of a goal support 114 as shown in FIG. 9A. The frame 162
may be connected to the goal support 114 by one or more fasteners
166a, 166b, such bolts, nuts, pins, screws and the like.
[0069] As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the support arms 164a, 164b may
include a first set of one or more holes or openings, which may be
generally aligned with one or more corresponding holes or openings
in the support member 154 of the goal support 114. The fastener
166a may be inserted through the opening in the support arm 164b,
through the corresponding openings in the support member 154 and
through the opening the support arm 164a.
[0070] As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the support arms 164a, 164b may
include a second set of one or more holes or openings, which may be
generally aligned with one or more corresponding holes or openings
in the support member 154 of the goal support 114. The fastener
166b may be inserted through the opening in the support arm 164b,
through the corresponding openings in the support member 154, and
through the opening the support arm 164a.
[0071] Thus, the fasteners 166a and 166b may be used to connect the
support member 154 and the frame 162. However, it will be
appreciated that the frame 162 may be connected to the goal support
114 in any suitable manner and using other suitable devices or
means.
[0072] As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the frame 162 may be connected
to the basketball goal assembly 116 and the basketball goal
assembly may include a basketball backboard 144 and a rim 146.
Preferably, the support arms 164a, 164b of the frame 162 includes
one or more openings that are sized, positioned and configured to
be aligned with one or more bosses formed in the backboard 144.
This may allow one or more fasteners, such screws or bolts, to be
inserted through the openings in the support arms 164a, 164b and
the fasteners may engage the bosses to secure the frame 162 to the
backboard 144. It will be appreciated that the frame 162 may be
connected to the basketball goal assembly 116 in any suitable
manner.
[0073] The frame 162 may be pivotally or otherwise movable relative
to the support member 154 to allow the basketball goal assembly 116
to be moved into different positions. For example, the basketball
goal assembly 116 and/or the frame 162 may be pivoted or otherwise
moved between a first position (such as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B)
in which the basketball goal assembly is positioned for use and a
second position (such as the position shown in FIG. 9B) in which
the basketball goal assembly is positioned away from the first
position. Desirably, the basketball goal assembly 116 is positioned
such that the backboard is generally perpendicular to the ground,
the rim is generally parallel to the ground, and the rim is
positioned away from the base in the first position. This first
position allows basketball to be played. In order to move the
basketball goal assembly 116 into the second position, the
basketball goal assembly may be pivoted about the top portion of
the second support member 154 so that the front face of the
backboard and rim are now generally disposed towards the base.
Thus, the basketball goal assembly 116 and/or the frame 162 may be
positioned in a pair of generally opposing positions (such as
facing about 180 degrees from the other). Of course, the basketball
goal assembly 116 and/or the frame 162 may be positioned in other
desired positions depending, for example, upon the intended purpose
of the poolside goal system.
[0074] Advantageously, because the basketball goal assembly 116
and/or the frame 162 may be positioned in a variety of positions, a
user may position the basketball goal assembly 116 for playing
basketball and may reposition the basketball goal assembly 116 in a
less obstructive position when finished playing basketball. In
addition, the user may position the basketball goal assembly 116 in
a different position so that the goal system 110 may be used for
different purposes. For example, the goal system 110 may be
configured for playing different games or sports such as
volleyball. Thus, the basketball goal assembly 116 may be moved so
that it is less likely to interfere with playing volleyball such as
shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C.
[0075] In greater detail, as shown in FIG. 9A, the poolside goal
system 110 may include a basketball goal assembly 116 and the rim
146 and front face of the backboard 144 may be disposed away from
the base 112 to allow basketball to be played. The basketball goal
assembly 116 may be pivoted from this first, use position to the
second position shown in FIGS. 9B. As shown in FIG. 9B, the rim 146
and the front face of the backboard 144 are now disposed towards
the base 112 in the second position. When the basketball goal
assembly 116 is in the second position, the goal system 110 may be
used for other purposes, such as supporting a net. As shown in FIG.
9C, a net assembly 176 may be attached to allow games such as
volleyball to be played.
[0076] Advantageously, the net assembly 176 and the basketball goal
assembly 116 may be configured to interact or work together. For
example, the basketball goal assembly 116 may be configured to
counterbalance forces applied to the net assembly 176. For example,
as shown in FIG. 9C, the net assembly 176 may include a volleyball
net 178 and a strap member 182, and the strap member may be
directly or indirectly connected to the basketball goal assembly
116. In particular, the strap member 182 may be connected to a
portion of the frame assembly, such as the frame 162 or the
fastener 166b, which is connected to the basketball goal assembly
116. When a force is applied to the net 178, as shown in FIG. 9D,
the force may be transmitted to the strap member 182. The force on
the strap member 182 may be used to move the basketball goal
assembly 116 from the second position towards the first position.
Accordingly, as shown in the accompanying figures, the basketball
goal assembly 116 may pivot upwardly and forwardly, as shown in
FIG. 9D, to counterbalance the force applied to the net assembly
176. It will be appreciated that springs and other devices could be
used to counterbalance forces applied to the net assembly 176.
[0077] Accordingly, the basketball goal assembly 116 may be
configured to absorb forces applied to the net assembly 176. This
may help avoid damage or breaking of the net assembly 176, net 178
and/or the strap member 182. Further, this may help to avoid
portions of the poolside goal system 110 from being misaligned or
toppled. For example, a volleyball player might inadvertently
contact or intentionally strike the net 178, which could move the
goal system 110 to be moved from its desired location. However,
because the basketball goal assembly 116 may be used to
counterbalance and/or absorb forces applied to the net 178, that
may prevent the goal system 110 from being unintentionally
moved.
[0078] As discussed above, the poolside goal system 10, 110 may
include a support structure 14 that include one or more support
members, such as a first support member 52, 154 and a second
support member 54. The support members 52, 54, 154 may be
constructed from metal tubes that have a generally circular cross
section. The support members 52, 54, 154 may also have other
suitable shapes and configuration depending, for example, upon the
intended use of the goal system 10, 110.
[0079] In addition, as discussed above, a bushing 58 may be
positioned between and may be used to connect the support members,
such as the first and second support members 52, 54. The bushing
may be constructed of a compressible material to provide a
compression fit between the support members. For example, when the
support members 52, 54 are connected, the bushing 58 may be
compressed between the first and second support members. In
particular, as shown in FIG. 10, the support member 54 may have one
or more flared portions 198a, 198b that are sized and configured to
compress at least a portion of bushing 56. Of course, the second
support member 54 may compress at least a portion of the bushing 58
with structures other than the flared portions 198a, 198b, and the
support member 54 does not require any flared portions. Further,
the support member 54 does not have to compress the bushing 58 and
any suitable type of bushing may be used to connect or may be
positioned between the support members. It will be appreciated,
however, that the bushing 58 is not required.
[0080] One skilled in the art will also appreciate that although
the exemplary embodiments discussed above have been described with
respect to poolside goal systems, these aspects and features may
also be used in connection with other types of sporting equipment
and for sports other than basketball and volleyball.
[0081] Although this invention has been described in terms of
certain preferred embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those
of ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of this
invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is intended to
be defined only by the claims which follow.
* * * * *