U.S. patent application number 10/973024 was filed with the patent office on 2005-06-02 for basketball backboard.
Invention is credited to Branz, Cody, Earley, Del, Waite, Donald.
Application Number | 20050119074 10/973024 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34527964 |
Filed Date | 2005-06-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050119074 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Waite, Donald ; et
al. |
June 2, 2005 |
Basketball backboard
Abstract
A basketball goal system includes a basketball backboard and
support frame. The backboard is preferably constructed from
polycarbonate to create a generally unbreakable backboard. The
backboard desirably includes one or more protective layers that
prevents or reduces degradation of the polycarbonate when exposed
to environmental conditions such as ultraviolet (UV) light,
temperature fluctuations and moisture. The backboard may be
attached to the frame by an adhesive and the frame may be
constructed from blow-molded plastic to create a lightweight and
durable frame.
Inventors: |
Waite, Donald; (North Ogden,
UT) ; Earley, Del; (Harrisville, UT) ; Branz,
Cody; (Roy, 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: |
34527964 |
Appl. No.: |
10/973024 |
Filed: |
October 25, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60514719 |
Oct 27, 2003 |
|
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|
60539258 |
Jan 26, 2004 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
473/481 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 63/083
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/481 |
International
Class: |
A63B 063/08 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A basketball goal system comprising: a basketball backboard
frame; a basketball backboard attached to the basketball backboard
frame, the basketball backboard comprising: a polycarbonate sheet
including a front surface and a rear surface; and at least one
protective layer covering at least a portion of the polycarbonate
sheet, the protective layer providing protection to the
polycarbonate sheet from environmental conditions such as
ultraviolet light.
2. The basketball goal system as in claim 1, further comprising at
least one protective layer on the front surface of the
polycarbonate sheet and at least one protective layer on the rear
surface of the polycarbonate sheet.
3. The basketball goal system as in claim 1, wherein the at least
one protective layer covers substantially all of the exposed
portions of the polycarbonate sheet.
4. The basketball goal system as in claim 1, wherein the at least
one protective layer substantially prevents degradation of the
polycarbonate when exposed to environmental conditions.
5. The basketball goal system as in claim 1, wherein the at least
one protective layer substantially prevents the polycarbonate sheet
from becoming brittle over a period of at least five years.
6. The basketball goal system as in claim 1, wherein the at least
one protective layer substantially prevents the polycarbonate sheet
from discoloring over a period of at least five years.
7. The basketball goal system as in claim 1, wherein the basketball
backboard has a thickness of between about 2 millimeters and about
4 millimeters.
8. The basketball goal system as in claim 1, wherein the basketball
backboard frame comprises a one-piece, unitary backboard frame
constructed of blow-molded plastic.
9. The basketball goal system as in claim 1, wherein the basketball
backboard frame is constructed from blow-molded plastic and
includes a front surface that is spaced apart from a rear surface;
and wherein the basketball backboard is attached to the front
surface of the basketball backboard frame by an adhesive.
10. The basketball goal system as in claim 1, wherein the
basketball backboard includes a protective layer that covers the
front surface of the polycarbonate sheet and a protective layer
that cover the rear surface of the polycarbonate sheet.
11. A basketball goal system comprising: a basketball backboard
frame; and a polycarbonate basketball backboard attached to the
basketball backboard frame, the polycarbonate basketball backboard
including one or more protective layers on a front portion of the
backboard and one or more protective layers on a rear portion of
the backboard, the protective layers on the front portion and the
rear portion of the backboard providing protection to the
polycarbonate from ultraviolet light, temperature and moisture.
12. The basketball goal system as in claim 11, wherein the one or
more protective layers cover substantially all the front portion of
the backboard and the one or more protective layers cover
substantially all of the rear portion of the backboard.
13. The basketball goal system as in claim 11, wherein the one or
more protective layers cover substantially all of the exposed
surfaces of the front portion of the backboard and the one or more
protective layers cover substantially all of the exposed surfaces
of the rear portion of the backboard.
14. The basketball goal system as in claim 11, wherein the one or
more protective layers on the front portion of the backboard and
the one or more protective layers on the rear portion of the
backboard substantially prevent degradation of the polycarbonate
when exposed to environmental conditions.
15. The basketball goal system as in claim 11, wherein the one or
more protective layers on the front portion of the backboard and
the one or more protective layers on the rear portion of the
backboard substantially prevent the polycarbonate sheet from
becoming brittle over a period of at least five years.
16. The basketball goal system as in claim 11, wherein the one or
more protective layers on the front portion of the backboard and
the one or more protective layers on the rear portion of the
backboard substantially prevent the polycarbonate sheet from
discoloring over a period of at least five years.
17. The basketball goal system as in claim 11, wherein the
basketball backboard has a thickness of between about 2 millimeters
and about 4 millimeters.
18. The basketball goal system as in claim 11, wherein the
basketball backboard frame comprises a one-piece, unitary backboard
frame constructed of blow-molded plastic.
19. The basketball goal system as in claim 11, wherein the
basketball backboard frame is constructed from blow-molded plastic
and includes a front surface that is spaced apart from a rear
surface; and wherein the basketball backboard is attached to the
front surface of the basketball backboard frame by an adhesive.
20. The basketball goal system as in claim 11, wherein the
polycarbonate basketball backboard is substantially unbreakable and
does not substantially degrade when continually exposed to outdoor
environmental conditions over a period of at least five years.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/514,719, entitled
BASKETBALL BACKBOARD, which was filed on Oct. 27, 2003; and claims
priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application
Ser. No. 60/539,258, entitled BASKETBALL BACKBOARD, which was filed
on Jan. 26, 2004. The disclosures of each of the foregoing
applications are incorporated by reference in their entireties.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention generally relates to basketball goal
systems and, in particular, to basketball backboards for basketball
goal systems.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] As the game of basketball continues to increase in
popularity, a large number of people have purchased basketball
systems for use at their homes. Such basketball systems typically
include a support pole, which is held in a fixed position while
playing the game of basketball, and goal assembly that is attached
to the upper portion of the support pole. The goal assembly, which
is suspended a given distance above a playing surface, typically
includes a basketball backboard frame, a basketball backboard, and
goal or rim.
[0006] Conventional basketball systems designed for use at home
often include basketball backboard frames that are constructed from
metal or steel and include a number of individual sections that are
joined together. The metal frame is typically attached to the
support pole by a support structure that includes two or more
elongated arms. The basketball backboard, which may also be
referred to as a rebound member or basketball backboard panel, is
often attached to the metal support frame by one or more screws or
bolts.
[0007] Basketball backboards for use with home basketball systems
have previously been constructed from solid materials such as wood.
Disadvantageously, wooden basketball backboards deteriorate over
time, especially when used in outdoor environments because the
backboards are constantly exposed to harsh weather environments
such as rain and snow. Basketball backboards for home basketball
systems have also be constructed from injection molded plastic.
Injection molded plastic backboards, however, are relatively
flexible and that often causes poor rebounding characteristics. In
particular, when basketballs strike injection molded plastic
backboards, the backboards typically flex and that causes
basketballs to bounce off of or rebound in inconsistent and
unpredictable manners. In addition, different portions of injection
molded plastic backboards may flex or bend different amounts. For
example, portions of injection molded plastic backboards that are
supported by a frame may flex or bend significantly less than
portions of the backboard that are not supported by the frame.
Accordingly, basketballs may rebound differently depending upon
which portion of the backboard it strikes.
[0008] Conventional injection molded plastic backboards typically
require strengthening ribs and other complex structures in an
attempt to strengthen the backboards. These strengthening ribs and
other structures, however, disadvantageously increase the weight
and cost of the backboard. Additionally, known basketball
backboards may be constructed using a structural foam material with
an internal cellular structure and a hard external shell.
Undesirably, this type of backboard typically requires a multiple
step manufacturing process that increases the time and cost to
manufacture the backboard.
[0009] One feature of home basketball systems that is becoming more
popular is the use of transparent or clear backboards so that the
backboards resemble those used in professional and collegiate
games. In particular, most professional leagues and major colleges
use tempered glass backboards to allow spectators to view the game
through the backboard. Tempered glass backboards are generally
one-half (1/2) to three-eights (3/8) of an inch thick and the
tempered glass is very heavy. Thus, a large support frame, support
structure and support pole are required to position the glass
backboard above the playing surface. In addition, tempered glass
backboards are also very expensive and the glass can be undesirably
scratched, damaged and/or broken.
[0010] In order to create a look similar to the tempered glass
backboards used in professional and college games, transparent or
clear backboards are now being used in connection with home
basketball systems. For example, known home basketball systems may
use a metal basketball backboard frame and backboard consisting of
a planar acrylic sheet that is attached to the front surface of the
metal frame. Disadvantageously, the outer edges of the acrylic
backboard are often exposed and not supported by the metal frame.
This may allow the edges of the backboard to be broken or damaged
when struck by a basketball or other objects. Acrylic basketball
backboards that are damaged or broken are often very difficult and
expensive for the consumer to fix or replace.
[0011] Conventional acrylic basketball backboards are often
attached to the backboard frame by one or more fasteners such as
screws or bolts. Disadvantageously, the openings in the acrylic
sheet for the screws or bolts may create stress points or
concentrations that reduce the strength and/or structural integrity
of the backboard. The acrylic basketball backboards may also be
attached to a frame by double-sided adhesive tape. The double-sided
adhesive tape must securely bond the backboard to the frame. The
double-sided tape must also allow impact energy from the basketball
striking the backboard to be transferred to the frame, and the tape
must have sufficient flexibility to dissipate the impact energy
from the backboard to the frame. If the attachment of the
basketball backboard to the frame is too rigid, then the backboard
can fracture. On the other hand, if the attachment of the
basketball backboard to the frame is too loose, then the backboard
may dislodge or separate from the frame and it may fall to the
playing surface.
[0012] It is also known to use acrylic basketball backboards in
connection with basket ball backboard frames constructed from
injection molded plastic. Conventional injection molded plastic
frames may include separately molded front and rear sections that
are connected together to form the frame. In particular, the front
and rear sections of the frame may include alignment features that
allow the sections to be attached in the desired manner and a slot
or opening is disposed between the front and rear sections. The
acrylic basketball backboard is inserted into the slot to form the
basketball goal assembly. The injection molded plastic frame
typically requires structural foam or fiberglass-reinforced plastic
to provide the required strength to support the acrylic basketball
backboard and provide the proper rebound performance.
[0013] Disadvantageously, conventional acrylic basketball
backboards may crack, break, fracture and/or shatter if subjected
to very large impacts or forces. In order to help prevent the
acrylic basketball backboards from undesirably breaking, various
types of modifiers have been added to the acrylic. In addition, the
inks used to apply graphics to the acrylic backboard and the lights
used to cure the backboard have been changed in various attempts to
prevent the backboards from breaking. The acrylic backboards,
however, may still break if subjected to very large impacts or
forces. The processes used to attach the acrylic backboard to the
frame have also been modified in order to help prevent the
backboards from breaking. For example, different types of adhesives
and bonding processes have been used to attach the acrylic
backboard to the frame. Conventional acrylic backboards, however,
may still undesirably break if excessive forces are applied to the
backboard.
[0014] In order to increase the strength of conventional acrylic
basketball backboards, the thickness of the acrylic may be
increased. Undesirably, this increases the costs and weight of the
backboards. In addition, a larger and more complex backboard frame
and support structure may be required to support the heavier
basketball backboard, which may further increase the cost of the
basketball goal system.
[0015] Additionally, known basketball backboards constructed from
acrylic or other types of plastic often deteriorate over time. In
particular, conventional plastic backboards may deteriorate over
time because of exposure to sunlight. The sunlight may cause the
plastic backboards to discolor or become brittle over a period of
time such as four to five years, and these effects may be even more
pronounced after five to six years. In addition, environmental
conditions such as temperature and moisture may degrade the acrylic
and other types of plastics conventionally used to construct
basketball backboards. Disadvantageously, the brittle plastic
backboards are more likely to break or fracture. In addition, the
discoloration of the backboard may change the appearance of the
basketball system and may be aesthetically unpleasing.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0016] A need therefore exists for a basketball backboard that
eliminates or reduces some or all of the above-described
disadvantages and problems.
[0017] One aspect is a basketball backboard that may include a
generally planar front surface. The basketball backboard may also
include a generally planar rear surface and the backboard is
preferably sized and configured to be attached to a frame and/or
support structure.
[0018] Another aspect is a basketball backboard that may be
constructed from polycarbonate, which is a family of thermoplastics
characterized by high-impact strength and lightweight. Preferably,
the backboard is constructed from a transparent polycarbonate sheet
with a protective layer on both sides of the sheet. The protective
layers may advantageously prevent and/or reduce degradation of the
polycarbonate from environmental conditions such as ultraviolet
(UV) light, temperature and moisture. Significantly, this creates a
basketball backboard with excellent impact resistance and
weathering properties. While both sides of the polycarbonate sheet
desirably include a protective layer, only one side of the
basketball backboard may include a protective layer if desired.
[0019] Yet another aspect is a basketball backboard that may be
constructed from polycarbonate with a protective layer on both
sides of the polycarbonate. For example, the basketball backboard
may be constructed from Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D, which is
available from the General Electric Co. In particular, Lexan.RTM.
Excell.RTM. D is registered trademarks of the General Electric Co.
and it is available from GE Plastics of Pittsfield, Mass.
Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D is a transparent polycarbonate sheet with
proprietary UV protection on both sides of the sheet. Because the
UV protection is provided on both sides of the Lexan.RTM.
Excell.RTM. D sheet, it provides excellent durability to outdoor
weathering. Additionally, the Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D is resistant
to discoloration and yellowing over time. Further, in contrast to
conventional polycarbonate, it does not become brittle or more
easily broken over time. Thus, Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D may be used
to create basketball backboards that are long-lasting and do not
deteriorate over time when exposed to the environment.
[0020] Still another aspect is a basketball backboard that may be
constructed from polycarbonate with a protective layer on both
sides of the polycarbonate, such as Makrolon.RTM. SL2, which is
available from Sheffield Plastics of Sheffield, Mass. Desirably
Makrolon.RTM. SL2 includes UV protection that provides excellent
durability when used outdoors.
[0021] Of course, other polycarbonate sheets having the same,
similar or different properties than Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D or
Makrolon.RTM. SL2 may be used, and the sheets may have a protective
layer on a single side or both sides of the sheets, if desired.
Desirably, the protective layers provide weather and/or UV
protection to the polycarbonate, which may prevent or reduce
degradation of the polycarbonate from environmental conditions.
Significantly, the protective layers may prevent the polycarbonate
from be coming brittle, discolored or otherwise changed from its
original configuration and characteristics.
[0022] A further aspect is a basketball backboard that may be
generally unbreakable. Preferably, the basketball backboard is
constructed from polycarbonate materials such as Lexan.RTM.
Excell.RTM. D or Makrolon.RTM. SL2. Significantly, the generally
unbreakable backboard provides for long use of the basketball goal
system and virtually eliminates the need for repair or replacement
of the backboard. Advantageously, the polycarbonate backboard is
approximately thirty (30) times stronger than conventional
backboards constructed from acrylic.
[0023] Yet another aspect is a basketball backboard that may be
lightweight. For example, because the backboard may be constructed
from polycarbonate with a protective layer on each side and the
polycarbonate backboard is much stronger than a conventional
acrylic backboard, the polycarbonate backboard may be thinner than
the acrylic backboard. For example, the polycarbonate backboard may
have a thickness of 2 mm, 3 mm or 4 mm. Thus, the polycarbonate
backboard may weigh less than the acrylic backboard that has a
larger thickness. The lightweight backboard may be easily
transported and it may allow the overall weight of the basketball
goal assembly to be decreased, which may decrease shipping costs.
Additionally, the lightweight basketball backboard may allow the
basketball goal system to be easily constructed and assembled.
Further, because the basketball backboard may be lightweight, it
does not require a large support structure to position the
backboard above the playing surface.
[0024] Advantageously, basketball backboards constructed from
polycarbonate materials such as Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D or
Makrolon.RTM. SL2 may be very strong, rigid, lightweight and
durable. This may allow the basketball backboards to withstand
repeated impacts with the basketball or other similar objects. The
strong and rigid backboards may also allow a basketball system with
good rebounding characteristics to be constructed. In addition,
because the backboard may be constructed from generally unbreakable
polycarbonate, that may prevent the backboard from being cracked,
damaged or broken. Thus, repairs and/or replacements of the
backboard may be reduced or eliminated. Further, the generally
unbreakable backboards are unlikely to be damaged or broken during
shipping. Thus, the generally unbreakable backboards may save the
manufacturer costs.
[0025] Yet another aspect is a basketball backboard that may be
constructed in a wide variety of desired configurations, shapes,
sizes and designs. Significantly, the basketball backboard may be
durable, weather resistant and generally temperature insensitive.
In addition, the outer periphery or exterior of the basketball
backboard may have a wide variety of desired shapes and sizes. For
example, the outer periphery may have a generally rectangular
configuration with generally parallel disposed upper and lower
surfaces. The outer periphery of the backboard may also be curved
or have other desired shapes and configurations such as a curved or
fan-shaped upper portion and a generally straight or planar lower
portion.
[0026] Another aspect is a basketball backboard that may include a
polycarbonate sheet with a generally flat, planar front surface.
The backboard is preferably constructed from a generally clear or
transparent material to allow light to be transmitted through the
backboard. The backboard may also contain designs, graphics, or
other printed materials on either or both sides of the backboard.
Also, if desired, the backboard may be constructed from
polycarbonate materials that are generally translucent, colored,
tinted, or opaque.
[0027] A further aspect is a basketball goal system that may
include a basketball backboard frame and a basketball backboard
attached to the basketball backboard frame. The basketball
backboard may include a polycarbonate sheet including a front
surface and a rear surface; and at least one protective layer
covering at least a portion of the polycarbonate sheet, the
protective layer providing protection to the polycarbonate sheet
from environmental conditions such as ultraviolet light. Desirably,
the at least one protective layer may substantially prevent
degradation of the polycarbonate when exposed to environmental
conditions and the at least one protective layer may substantially
prevent the polycarbonate sheet from becoming brittle over a period
of at least five years. In addition, the at least one protective
layer may substantially prevent the polycarbonate sheet from
discoloring over a period of at least five years. Further, the
basketball backboard frame may be constructed from blow-molded
plastic with a front surface that is spaced apart from a rear
surface and the basketball backboard may be attached to the front
surface of the basketball backboard frame by an adhesive.
[0028] These and other aspects, features and advantages of the
present invention will become more fully apparent from the
following detailed description of preferred embodiments and
appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] 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:
[0030] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a
portion of a basketball goal system, illustrating a rim or hoop, a
backboard, a backboard support frame and a support structure;
[0031] FIG. 2 is a front view of the exemplary basketball goal
system shown in FIG. 1; and
[0032] FIG. 3 is a rear view of the exemplary basketball goal
system shown in FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0033] The present invention is generally directed towards a
basketball backboard. In order to assist in the description of the
basketball backboard, words such as top, bottom, front, rear, right
and left are used to describe the accompanying figures. It will be
appreciated, however, that the basketball backboard can be located
in a variety of desired positions and have a variety of sizes and
configurations. In addition, the basketball backboard may be used
in connection with a wide variety of basketball goals and
basketball systems. A detailed description of the basketball
backboard now follows.
[0034] As shown in FIG. 1, an exemplary embodiment of a portion of
a basketball goal system 10 includes a backboard 12 and a support
frame 14. The basketball goal system 10 may also include a
basketball goal or rim 16 and a support structure, such as a
support pole, to support the rim above a playing surface. The
basketball goal system 10 may be part of a portable basketball
system that is sized and configured to be relatively easily moved
or a permanent basketball system that is intended to remain in a
fixed position.
[0035] As seen in FIG. 1, the backboard 12 preferably has a
generally smooth, planar outer surface so that a basketball bounces
or rebounds off the backboard in a consistent manner. The backboard
12 is preferably constructed from plastic, such as a polycarbonate
sheet, that has sufficient thickness so that it will not break
during an ordinary game of basketball. The backboard 12 is
preferably constructed from a polycarbonate sheet because it is
lightweight, easy to manufacture and allows the basketball goal
system 10 to be easily assembled. In addition, the backboard 12 is
preferably constructed from a clear, transparent or generally
translucent polycarbonate material so that light can pass through
the backboard. This creates a basketball goal system 10 that is
similar in appearance and characteristics to that used in
professional and major college basketball games. One skilled in the
art, however, will realize that the backboard 12 can be constructed
from polycarbonate materials that are colored, tinted, or opaque.
One skilled in the art will also realize that the backboard 12 can
be constructed from other materials, including other types of
polycarbonate materials, with suitable characteristics.
[0036] The backboard 12 is preferably constructed from a
polycarbonate sheet with a protective layer or coating on at least
one side that protects the polycarbonate from damage. For example,
the protective layer may prevent or reduce degradation of the
polycarbonate from environmental conditions such as ultraviolet
(UV) light, temperature and moisture. Advantageously, this creates
a basketball backboard 12 with excellent impact resistance and
weathering properties. Desirably, the backboard 12 includes one or
more protective layers that cover both sides of the polycarbonate
material. It will be appreciated, however, that the backboard 12
may include one or more protective layers or coatings on one or
both sides of the polycarbonate and the layers or coating may cover
all or a portion of the polycarbonate. It will also be appreciated
that one or more protective layers could be disposed on the
polycarbonate sheet and other types of layers, such as intermediate
layers, may also be disposed on the polycarbonate sheet. Further,
it will be appreciated that the protective layers may be directly
or indirectly disposed on the polycarbonate sheet.
[0037] Desirably, the basketball backboard 12 is constructed from
Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D (which are registered trademarks of the
General Electric Co.), which is available from the General Electric
Co., and in particular, from GE Plastics of Pittsfield, Mass. The
backboard 12 can also be constructed from polycarbonate materials
such as Makrolon.RTM. SL2, which is available from Sheffield
Plastics of Sheffield, Mass.
[0038] In greater detail, Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D is a
polycarbonate sheet with proprietary UV protection on both sides of
the sheet. Because UV protection is provided on both sides of the
Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D sheet, it provides excellent durability to
outdoor weathering. Additionally, Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D is
resistant to discoloration and yellowing over time. Advantageously,
because Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D is available in transparent,
colored, tinted and configurations, the backboard 12 can be clear,
tinted or colored, as desired. The backboard 12 may also contain
designs, graphics or other materials that are printed or
silk-screened on either or both sides of the backboard.
Significantly, the designs, graphics and other materials may be
directly printed or silk-screened onto the Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D
polycarbonate sheet. Preferably, the designs, graphics and other
materials are printed on the Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D using Nazdar
3400 series ink, but other suitable types of inks may also be used.
Significantly, this ink tends to adhere better to the polycarbonate
backboard than a conventional acrylic backboard. It will be
appreciated that the backboard 12 may also include one or more
stickers, labels, decals, and the like, and the backboard may be
treated or cured as desired.
[0039] In addition, the protective layer or coating on both sides
of the Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D polycarbonate sheet desirably helps
prevent degradation of the polycarbonate from exposure to
environmental conditions such as light, temperature and moisture.
In contrast, conventional polycarbonate materials, when exposed to
UV light, temperature variations and moisture, significantly and
rapidly degrade. In particular, conventional polycarbonate
materials often discolor and become brittle over a period of time
such as four to five years. This may allow the polycarbonate
material to fracture or break. Accordingly, conventional
polycarbonate materials are unsuitable to be used as basketball
backboards because the polycarbonate will degrade, discolor and
become brittle. The Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D polycarbonate sheet
with a protective layer on both sides, however, does not discolor
or become brittle. Therefore, the backboard 12 is preferably
constructed from Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D because it does not
discolor and it retains its strength and structural integrity.
[0040] Makrolon.RTM. SL2 is also a polycarbonate material and it
may have properties similar to Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D. For
example, the Makrolon.RTM. SL2 is a polycarbonate sheet that may
include a protective layer on both sides of the polycarbonate
sheet. In addition, a backboard constructed from Makrolon.RTM. SL2
may be tinted, colored, transparent, etc., and designs, graphic,
printed material, labels, stickers, decals, etc. may be positioned
on one or both sides of the backboard. A backboard constructed from
Makrolon.RTM. SL2 also does not degrade when exposed to
environmental conditions such as UV light, temperature fluctuations
and moisture.
[0041] The basketball backboard 12 is generally unbreakable because
it is preferably constructed from polycarbonate materials, such as
Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D or Makrolon.RTM. SL2. The generally
unbreakable backboard 12 provides for long use of the basketball
goal system and virtually eliminates the need for repair or
replacement of the backboard. The generally unbreakable backboard
12 is also very unlikely to be damaged during shipping and/or
assembly. Advantageously, the polycarbonate basketball backboard 12
is very strong and durable. In addition, the backboard 12 is
high-strength, rigid and lightweight. Significantly, the strong and
sturdy basketball backboard 12 can withstand repeated impacts with
a basketball or other similar objects. Further, the strong and
rigid backboard 12 allows a basketball goal system 10 with good
rebounding characteristics to be constructed.
[0042] Because the basketball backboard 12 is constructed from a
strong; durable, and high-strength material, the backboard can be
constructed from a relatively thin sheet of polycarbonate material
such as Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D or Makrolon.RTM.b SL2. For
example, the backboard 12 may have a thickness of about 0.060
inches, 0.079 inches (2 mm), 0.090 inches, 0.093 inches, 0.118
inches (3 mm), 0.150 inches, 0.156 inches (4 mm), or 0.1875 inches.
It will be appreciated that the thickness of the backboard 12 may
be larger or smaller depending, for example, upon the size and/or
intended use of the backboard. Advantageously, the relatively thin
sheet of material allows the weight of the backboard 12 to be
reduced, which may allow manufacturing costs to be decreased and it
may allow the backboard to be more quickly and easily assembled.
The lightweight basketball backboard 12 may also allow the overall
weight of the basketball goal system 10 to be decreased, which may
lessen shipping costs. Further, because the basketball backboard 12
is lightweight, it does not require a large support structure to
position the backboard above the playing surface.
[0043] Additionally, the basketball backboard 12 can be constructed
in a wide variety of desired configurations, shapes, sizes and
designs. Thus, for example, the backboard 12 can have generally
rectangular, square, fan-shaped, curved, rounded or other suitable
shapes. Significantly, the basketball backboard 12 is durable,
weather resistant and generally temperature insensitive.
[0044] Significantly, basketball backboards 12 constructed from
polycarbonate sheets such as Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D or
Makrolon.RTM. SL2 are approximately thirty (30) times stronger than
standard acrylic sheets used to constructed conventional basketball
backboards. In particular, basketball backboards 12 constructed
from Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D were tested with a Gardiner Impact
Machine, but the backboards were unable to be cracked or broken. In
addition, other types of testing were unable to crack or break the
backboard 12. In contrast, backboards constructed from conventional
acrylic may be cracked or broken under similar testing situations
and configurations.
[0045] The basketball backboard 12, however, does not have to be
constructed from Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D or Makrolon.RTM. SL2. It
will be appreciated that the backboard 12 may be constructed with
other polycarbonate sheets having the same, similar, or different
properties than Lexan.RTM. Excell.RTM. D or Makrolon.RTM. SL2.
Desirably, however, the backboard 12 includes one or more
protective layers that reduces or prevents degradation of the
polycarbonate when exposed to the environment.
[0046] As shown in FIG. 1, the basketball goal system 10 may
include a support frame 14 that is sized and configured to support
the backboard 12. The support frame 14 is preferably constructed
from a lightweight material, such as plastic. Desirably, the
support frame 14 is constructed from blow-molded plastic to create
a strong, lightweight and durable frame. In greater detail, the
support frame 14 is preferably constructed using a blow-molded
plastic process, and the frame includes two opposing walls or
surfaces that are separated by a given distance in order to create
a strong and sturdy structure. In addition, the interior portion of
the support frame 14 is preferably generally hollow.
Advantageously, this creates a support frame 14 that is
lightweight, strong, rigid, and it can withstand repeated impacts
with a basketball or other similar objects. It will be understood
that the support frame 14 could also be constructed using other
processes, such as injection or rotary molding, and the frame could
be constructed using any suitable materials with suitable
characteristics.
[0047] The support frame 14 is also preferably constructed from
blow-molded plastic because it can easily be formed into any
desired size and configuration. In addition, the support frame 14
is preferably constructed from blow-molded plastic because it is
durable, weather resistant and generally temperature insensitive.
Advantageously, if the support frame 14 is constructed from
blow-molded plastic, it generally will not corrode, rust or
otherwise deteriorate over time.
[0048] The support frame 14 is preferably constructed from
lightweight, blow-molded plastic because weight reduction of the
basketball goal system 10 is highly desirable. For example, many
home basketball systems are marketed directly to consumers in
retail stores. Thus, the purchaser may be required to bring the
basketball system to a register to be purchased, load the system in
a vehicle, and assemble the system at home. If the basketball
backboard 12 and the support frame 14 are heavy, that increases the
weight of the basketball goal system 10 and the overall weight of
the entire basketball system. The heavy basketball goal system 10
may require a heavier and more complex support system, which
further increases the overall weight of the basketball system. A
consumer may be reluctant to purchase and assemble a basketball
system that is too heavy.
[0049] Advantageously, constructing the support frame 14 from
lightweight, blow-molded plastic also decreases shipping costs,
whether shipping the system from the manufacturer to a retailer or
consumer. Conventional basketball backboard frames constructed from
pieces of metal that are welded together, in contrast, are heavy
and the extra weight increases shipping costs. The blow-molded
basketball frame 14, however, is lightweight and it allows for the
overall weight of the basketball goal system 10 to be decreased.
The lightweight backboard support frame 14 also simplifies the
attachment of the basketball goal system 10 to the support pole or
other support structure because the lighter weight goal system is
easier to manipulate and control during the assembly process.
Advantageously, because the support frame 14 is lightweight, the
pole and/or other support structure do not have to support a heavy
basketball goal system 10. This allows the pole and/or other
support structure to be constructed from lighter weight
materials.
[0050] The backboard 12 is preferably attached to the frame 14 by
an adhesive, such as disclosed in assignee's co-pending U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/228,325, entitled System and Method for
Bonding an Acrylic Surface to a Frame, which is incorporated by
reference in its entirety. It will be appreciated that the
backboard 12 may also be connected to the frame 14 using a snap
fit, an interference fit, a friction fit, and the like. It will
also be appreciated that the backboard 12 may be connected to the
frame 14 using one or more fasteners, connectors or other suitable
devices or means.
[0051] As known to those skilled in the art, the height of the
basketball goal system 10 may be adjustable and a counterbalance or
counterweight may be used to support the goal system at the desired
height. Significantly, because the backboard 12 may be constructed
from a thin sheet of polycarbonate with one or more protective
layers and the support frame 14 may be constructed from lightweight
blow-molded plastic, a smaller counterbalance or counterweight may
be used to support the basketball goal system 10. Additionally, as
known to those skilled in the art, the counterbalance may consist
of a spring or piston that may be attached to various portions of
the basketball goal system 10. The lightweight backboard 12 and the
support frame 14 may allow a smaller spring or piston to be used.
The smaller spring, counterbalance or counter weight may further
decrease the overall weight of the basketball system.
[0052] The support frame 14 is also preferably constructed from
blow-molded plastic because it allows multiple features to be
formed in the frame. For example, various support and mounting
structures may be created in the frame 14 during the blow-molding
process. In particular, one or more holes used to mount a
basketball goal 16 to the support frame 14 may be created during
the blow-molding process. Thus, a drilling step can be eliminated
from the manufacturing process. Also, the support frame 14 may
include one or more depressions 18 that are sized and configured
strengthen and/or to increase the rigidity of the frame. These and
other features formed during the blow-molding process save time and
manufacturing costs. In addition, these features are preferably
integrally formed in the support frame 14 and the features may be
simultaneously created during the blow-molding process. Because
these features may be simultaneously formed during the blow-molding
process, this may save costs because the overall manufacturing cost
of a product generally increases with each additional manufacturing
step.
[0053] The support frame 14 is also preferably constructed as a
unitary, one-piece structure. Advantageously, this further
decreases manufacturing costs and time because one or more
components do not have to be assembled or fastened together. In
addition, the one-piece structure allows a strong and sturdy
support frame 14 to be manufactured. It will be appreciated that
the support frame 14, however, may be constructed by one or more
components that are fastened together by any suitable means.
[0054] The support frame 14 may also be constructed using other
suitable materials, such as metal or wood, and could be constructed
using other suitable processes. Further, the support frame 14 may
have a variety of other sizes, configurations and designs
depending, for example, upon the size and configuration of the
backboard 12 and/or support system.
[0055] 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.
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