U.S. patent application number 11/494411 was filed with the patent office on 2007-02-01 for portable basketball system.
Invention is credited to Robert A. Astle, S. Curtis Nye, David C. Winter.
Application Number | 20070026976 11/494411 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37695100 |
Filed Date | 2007-02-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070026976 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Nye; S. Curtis ; et
al. |
February 1, 2007 |
Portable basketball system
Abstract
A portable basketball system may include a basketball goal and a
support structure that is sized and configured to support the
basketball goal above a support surface. The basketball system may
also include one or more feet that are sized and configured to
engage a support surface. The feet may be movable among a plurality
of positions to facilitate, for example, leveling the basketball
system, adjusting the height of the basketball system and/or
holding the basketball system in a generally fixed location. In
addition, the basketball system may include a support structure and
the support structure may include a rear support member including a
lower end connected to a rear portion of the base, a first front
support member including a lower end connected to a front portion
of the base and a second front support member including a lower end
connected to the front portion of the base. If desired, the rear
support member, the first front support member and the second front
support member of the support structure may be disposed in a
generally tripod-shaped configuration.
Inventors: |
Nye; S. Curtis; (Clinton,
UT) ; Astle; Robert A.; (Farmington, UT) ;
Winter; David C.; (Layton, 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: |
37695100 |
Appl. No.: |
11/494411 |
Filed: |
July 26, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11333912 |
Jan 17, 2006 |
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11494411 |
Jul 26, 2006 |
|
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60702468 |
Jul 26, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
473/481 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 63/083 20130101;
A63B 2071/026 20130101; A63B 2071/025 20130101; A63B 2225/093
20130101; A63B 2210/50 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/481 |
International
Class: |
A63B 63/08 20060101
A63B063/08 |
Claims
1. A portable basketball system comprising: a basketball goal
including a backboard and a rim; a base; a support structure
connected to the base, the support structure being sized and
configured to support the basketball goal above a playing surface,
the support structure comprising: a rear support member including a
lower end connected to a rear portion of the base and an upper end
connected to the basketball goal; a first front support member
including a lower end connected to a front portion of the base and
an upper end connected to the rear support member; and a second
front support member including a lower end connected to the front
portion of the base and an upper end connected to the rear support
member; a height adjustment mechanism connected to the support
structure, the height adjustment mechanism sized and configured to
adjust the height of the basketball goal between a plurality of
generally fixed heights above a support surface; and an adjustment
assembly connected to the basketball goal and the height adjustment
mechanism, the adjustment assembly being sized and configured to
tilt the basketball in a plurality of directions to adjust the
orientation of the basketball goal while the basketball goal is at
any of the plurality of generally fixed heights.
2. The portable basketball system as in claim 1, wherein the
adjustment assembly comprises: a first bracket connected to the
basketball goal; and a second bracket connected to the first
bracket and the support structure, the second bracket being sized
and configured to be connected to the first bracket in a plurality
of relative positions.
3. The portable basketball system as in claim 2, wherein the
adjustment assembly comprises: a third bracket connected to the
basketball goal; and a fourth bracket connected to the third
bracket and the support structure, the fourth bracket being sized
and configured to be connected to the third bracket in a plurality
of relative positions.
4. The portable basketball system as in claim 2, wherein the second
bracket includes an opening sized and configured to receive a
fastener in a plurality of positions to connect the second bracket
to the first bracket in a plurality of relative positions.
5. The portable basketball system as in claim 2, wherein the first
bracket includes an opening sized and configured to receive a
fastener in a plurality of positions to connect the second bracket
to the first bracket in a plurality of relative positions.
6. The portable basketball system as in claim 2, wherein the
backboard comprises a frame portion and a rebound portion connected
to the frame portion; and wherein the first bracket is connected to
the frame portion of the backboard.
7. The portable basketball system as in claim 2, wherein the
backboard comprises a frame portion and a rebound portion connected
to the frame portion; and wherein the first bracket includes a
receiving portion sized and configured to receive at least a part
of the frame portion of the backboard.
8. The portable basketball system as in claim 7, wherein the
receiving portion comprises a notch.
9. The portable basketball system as in claim 1, wherein the rear
support member, the first front support member and the second front
support member of the support structure are disposed in a generally
tripod-shaped configuration.
10. The portable basketball system as in claim 1, wherein the first
front support member and the second front support member have
generally the same length, and the rear support member has a length
that is greater than the length of the first front support member
and the second front support member.
11. The portable basketball system as in claim 1, wherein the first
front support member and the second front support member are
connected to the rear support member at a location above a midpoint
of the rear support member.
12. The portable basketball system as in claim 1, wherein the
adjustment assembly is sized and configured to tilt the basketball
goal forward and backwards while the basketball goal is any of a
plurality of generally fixed heights.
13. The portable basketball system as in claim 1, further
comprising one or more feet movably connected to the support
structure, the feet being sized and configured to be moved between
a first position in which the basketball goal is in a first
orientation and a second position in which the basketball goal is
in a second orientation.
14. A portable basketball system comprising: a basketball goal
including a backboard and a rim; a base; a support structure
connected to the base, the support structure being sized and
configured to support the basketball goal above a playing surface,
the support structure comprising: a rear support member including a
lower end connected to a rear portion of the base and an upper end
connected to the basketball goal; a first front support member
including a lower end connected to a front portion of the base and
an upper end connected to the rear support member; and a second
front support member including a lower end connected to the front
portion of the base and an upper end connected to the rear support
member; a first foot connected to the first front support member,
the first foot being sized and configured to be moved between a
first position in which the basketball goal is in a first
orientation and a second position in which the basketball goal is
in a second orientation; and a second foot connected to the second
front support member, the second foot being sized and configured to
be moved between a first position in which the basketball goal is
in a first orientation and a second position in which the
basketball goal is in a second orientation.
15. The portable basketball system as in claim 14, wherein the rear
support member, the first front support member and the second front
support member of the support structure are disposed in a generally
tripod-shaped configuration.
16. The portable basketball system as in claim 14, further
comprising an adjustment assembly connected to the basketball goal
and the support structure, the adjustment assembly sized and
configured to adjust the orientation of the basketball goal.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/702,468, filed Jul. 26,
2005, entitled PORTABLE BASKETBALL SYSTEM, which is incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
[0002] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/333,912, filed Jan. 17, 2006, entitled
PORTABLE BASKETBALL SYSTEM, which is incorporated by reference in
its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] 1. Field of the Invention
[0004] The present invention relates to a basketball system and, in
particular, to a portable basketball system that is capable of
being selectively moved from one location to another location.
[0005] 2. Description of Related Art
[0006] Basketball is a very popular game and many people desire to
play basketball at their home. Many basketball systems designed for
home use require the basketball system to be permanently fixed in a
particular location. For example, many home basketball systems are
permanently positioned on the edge of the driveway.
Disadvantageously, mounting a basketball goal adjacent to the
driveway of the home may create a risk of damage to cars using the
driveway or cars that are parked nearby. Thus, one or more cars may
have to be moved before the basketball goal may be used. In
addition, the cars and other objects may limit the use of the
basketball system, and the cars and other objects may create a risk
of injury to the players.
[0007] Permanent basketball systems designed for use at home may
also be difficult to install. For example, concrete or asphalt may
be located where it is desired to install the permanent basketball
system. Accordingly, the concrete or asphalt may have to be removed
and/or replaced to allow the basketball system to be installed.
Undesirably, removing and/or replacing the concrete or asphalt may
be difficult, time-consuming and expensive. In addition, this would
most likely prevent use of the driveway during the period of
construction and repair.
[0008] Permanent basketball systems that are installed at home are
usually located outdoors and are exposed to the harsh elements of
the weather throughout the entire year. Disadvantageously, when
conventional permanent basketball systems are constantly exposed to
the elements such as rain, snow, sleet, high temperatures and high
humidity, various components of the basketball system may
prematurely oxidize, corrode or rust. Premature oxidation,
corrosion and rust can be particularly troublesome in basketball
goal assemblies that have any moving parts, such as height
adjustment mechanisms or breakaway rim assemblies. Moreover,
constant exposure to the elements may cause failure of such
mechanisms in some known basketball systems.
[0009] It is also known to use permanent basketball systems
indoors. Indoor basketball systems, however, often require a large
amount of space and the basketball goal must be located at least a
few feet away from other structures to allow basketball to be
played. For example, conventional indoor basketball systems must
generally be spaced away from the walls so that the walls do not
interfere while playing basketball. These permanent basketball
systems may limit or prevent the space from being used for other
purposes. For example, schools typically have a gymnasium and
basketball goals may be located near the ends or sides of the
gymnasium. The basketball goals may undesirably preclude or
interfere with use of the gymnasium for other purposes. In
addition, on formal occasions, objection may be made to the
appearance of the permanently mounted basketball goals.
[0010] Portable basketball systems that are movable from one
location to another location are also known. Conventional portable
basketball systems typically require a large amount of weight so
that the basketball goal remains in a generally rigid, upright
position for use when playing basketball or shooting baskets. In
particular, many conventional portable basketball systems require a
large and heavy base to prevent the basketball system from
undesirably moving. The large and heavy base, however, often makes
the basketball system very difficult to move and may require the
assistance of several people to set up or relocate the basketball
goal. Additionally, these known basketball system may be very
expensive and that may prohibit people from using these systems at
home.
[0011] Conventional portable basketball systems may use removable
weights, such as sand bags or metal weights, which help maintain
the basketball system in a fixed position. Disadvantageously, these
removable weights can be extremely heavy, difficult to lift and
hard to position in the desired location. Accordingly, although
these basketball systems using removable weights may be easier to
move in relation to permanently mounted goal assemblies, the
weights or weighted members are often not easy to move, lift or
position.
[0012] In an attempt to make portable basketball goal assemblies
that are better suited for home use, large support bases with a
large hollow cavity for receiving ballast material, such as sand or
water, have been developed. These conventional portable basketball
systems may be moved into the desired location and then the support
base may be filled with ballast such as sand or water. The ballast
adds weight to the portable basketball system and helps prevent the
basketball system from undesirably moving during use.
Disadvantageously, the sand or water may have to be removed to
allow the portable basketball system to be moved, which may be very
difficult and inconvenient. For example, the portable basketball
system may have to be tilted or placed on its side to allow the
sand or water to be removed. In addition, having to fill and empty
the support base with sand or water each time the goal is to be set
up or moved may require an undesirable amount of time and effort,
which may limit the use and effectiveness of the basketball
system.
[0013] The support bases for conventional portable basketball
systems are quite large because these types of basketball systems
generally require a large amount of weight to maintain the
basketball system in a stationary position while playing
basketball. Undesirably, the large size of the support base may
significantly increase shipping costs because of the size of the
packaging. In addition, the large size of the support base may
increase storage costs because the size of the packaging. Further,
because the support bases for conventional portable basketball
systems are large, a considerable amount of material is required to
construct the base. Accordingly, this may also increase the cost of
the portable basketball system.
[0014] It is known to use portable basketball systems in a wide
variety of areas such as in driveways and cul-de-sacs.
Disadvantageously, many driveways and cul-de-sacs are not level and
may contain uneven or sloped surfaces. Accordingly, the goal of
many conventional portable basketball systems may also be uneven or
sloped. That is, when these portable basketball systems are used on
uneven or sloped surfaces, the basketball goals may not properly
positioned in an upright position and the rim may not be located in
a horizontal position. In addition, these known portable basketball
systems may be more susceptible to undesirable movement when
positioned on uneven or sloped surfaces.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0015] A need therefore exists for a portable basketball system
that eliminates or diminishes the disadvantages and problems
described above.
[0016] One aspect is a basketball system that may be selectively
moved from one location to another location. Desirably, the
basketball system is a portable basketball system that is readily
capable of being moved. Advantageously, the basketball system may
be quickly and easily moved from one location to another, and the
basketball system may be movable by a single person, if
desired.
[0017] Another aspect is a basketball system that may include a
support structure and a basketball goal. The basketball goal may
include a backboard and a rim, and the support structure may
support the basketball goal above a support or playing surface. The
support structure may include one or more interconnected support
members. For example, the support structure may include two front
support members and a rear support member, and the support members
may advantageously help construct a strong, stable and/or rigid
support structure.
[0018] Yet another aspect is a basketball system that may include a
base. The base may be sized and configured to receive ballast (such
as sand, water and the like), which may help prevent the basketball
system from undesirably moving. For example, the base may include a
hollow interior portion that is sized and configured to receive
ballast.
[0019] Still another aspect is a basketball system that may include
one or more wheels, which may facilitate movement of the basketball
system. For example, the wheels may be disposed proximate the front
portion of the basketball system and the system may be pivoted onto
the wheels to facilitate movement.
[0020] Another aspect is a basketball system that may include a
base, a support structure and a basketball goal assembly connected
to the support structure. The basketball goal assembly may include
a backboard, a rim and/or a net; and the support structure may
include one or more support members. The basketball rim, for
example, may have a displaceable (or break away) configuration or a
fixed configuration, and the basketball backboard may have a
variety of suitable configurations and arrangements. The support
structure may be used to support the basketball goal assembly at a
desired height about a playing surface. The support structure may
have various configurations and the support structure may be used
to allow the height of the basketball goal assembly to be varied or
adjusted. The base may be sized and configured to support the
support structure and the basketball goal assembly in a desired
position. The base may also be sized and configured to hold
ballast, such as water or sand, to help maintain the base in the
desired position.
[0021] A further aspect is a basketball system that may include a
support structure, which may include a plurality of members. For
example, the support structure may include three support poles. As
shown in the accompanying figures, two support poles may be
disposed proximate a front portion of the base and the other
support pole may be disposed proximate a rear portion of the base.
It will be appreciated that the support structure could have other
suitable arrangements and configurations.
[0022] Advantageously, the support structure may be sized and
configured to securely support the basketball goal assembly. For
example, the three elongated support members or poles may be
securely connected to the base and the support members may be
securely interconnected. In particular, one end of the support
members may be connected to the base and the other end of the
support members may be connected. In greater detail, as shown in
the accompanying figures, two of the support members may have
generally the same length and the other support member may have a
different length. Thus, the end of the two support members with
generally the same length may be connected to a portion of the
other support member. Therefore, the support members may securely
support the basketball goal assembly.
[0023] Significantly, the support structure may be permanently or
selectively attached to the base and/or the basketball goal
assembly. For example, all or a portion of the support structure
may be connected to the base by mechanical fasteners, a friction
fit, snap fit, interference fit and the like. All or a portion of
the support structure may also be pivotally connected to the base.
In particular, the ends of two support members may be disposed in
receiving portions formed in the base and these support members may
be connected to the base using mechanical fasteners, a friction
fit, snap fit, interference fit and the like. The end of the third
support member may be pivotally connected to the base. For example,
a pivot member may be used to pivotally attach this support member
to the base and a retaining member may be sized and configured to
retain the support member in a fixed position. It will be
understood that the support structure may be connected to the base
in a variety of suitable configurations and arrangements.
[0024] Another aspect is a basketball system that may include a
support structure with supports that are disposed at an angle
relative to the playing surface. For example, the support structure
may include two elongated members that are disposed proximate the
front of the base and these elongated members may be angled away
from the playing surface. These elongated members may include one
or more connecting portions that interconnect the elongated members
and the upper portion of the elongated members may be connected to
another elongated member. The connecting portions and/or the
support members may act as a backstop and these components may help
basketballs and/or basketball players from contacting the base.
These components may also tend to return the basketball towards the
playing surface instead of allowing the basketball to bounce away
from the playing surface. Advantageously, the elongated members may
create a strong and sturdy support structure. In addition, the ends
of the elongated members may be disposed in receiving portions that
are located near the ground or lower portion of the base. This may
minimize any flexing, bending and/or twisting of the base. Further,
these receiving portions may allow the elongated members to be
quickly and easily located in the desired positions. It will be
appreciated that the base may include any suitable number of
receiving portions, but the receiving portions are not
required.
[0025] Advantageously, because the support structure may be quickly
and easily connected to the base, the basketball goal assembly
and/or interconnected, this may facilitate storage and/or shipping
of the basketball system. For example, the support structure may
include three support members and two support members may be
disposed in receiving portions formed in the base. The third
support member may be pivotally connected to the base and when the
support members are aligned in the desired configuration, then the
support members may be interconnected to provide a strong and
sturdy support structure. If desired, one or more small wedges may
be used to position the support members in the desired locations.
For instance, the wedges may be used to position the support member
that is pivotally connected to the base in the desired location.
Significantly, the wedges may allow the support members to be
quickly and easily positioned in the desired location and the
wedges may help prevent the support members from unintentionally
moving.
[0026] A further aspect is a basketball system that may include
engaging members, such as feet, which may be sized and configured
to help retain the basketball system in a generally fixed or
stationary position. The feet, for example, may be sized and
configured to engage a support or playing surface to help retain
the basketball system in a generally fixed or stationary position.
The feet may also assist in leveling and/or adjusting the position
of the basketball system. This may allow, for instance, allow the
basketball system to be used on uneven or sloping surfaces.
[0027] A still further aspect is a basketball system that may
include engaging members, such as feet, which may be sized and
configured to adjust the orientation of the basketball goal. For
example, the feet may be movable between a first position in which
the basketball goal is at a first orientation and a second position
in which the basketball goal is at a second orientation.
Advantageously, this may allow the basketball goal to be disposed
in an upright position and/or the rim to be placed in a horizontal
position even when the basketball system is placed on a non-planar
and/or non-level support surface.
[0028] Yet another aspect is a basketball system that may include
engaging members, such as feet, which may be sized and configured
to adjust the height of the basketball goal. For example, the feet
may be movable between a first position in which the basketball
goal is at a first height and a second position in which the
basketball goal is at a second height.
[0029] Still another aspect is a basketball system that may include
an adjustment assembly that is sized and configured to adjust the
orientation of the basketball goal. For example, the adjustment
assembly may be used to position the basketball goal in a desired
orientation when the basketball goal is at a particular height. In
particular, the adjustment assembly may adjust the orientation of
the basketball goal by tilting or moving the basketball goal
relative to the support structure. For instance, the adjustment
assembly may move the basketball goal forward, backwards and/or
sideways. This may allow the basketball goal to be disposed in an
upright position and/or the rim to be placed in a horizontal
position even when the basketball system is placed on a sloped or
uneven surface.
[0030] Advantageously, the adjustment assembly may be used to
connect the basketball goal to the support structure. For example,
the adjustment assembly may include a first pair of brackets
connected to the basketball goal and a second pair of brackets
connected to the support structure. The first and second pairs of
brackets may be interconnected in various relative positions to
adjust the orientation of the basketball goal.
[0031] Still yet another aspect is a basketball system that may
include a basketball goal that is adjustable in height, which may
allow the basketball system to be used by children and adults.
Preferably, the height and orientation of the basketball goal is
adjustable to facilitate use of the basketball system in a wide
variety of environments, locations and settings.
[0032] A still further aspect is a basketball system may include a
barrier, guard and/or rebound device. For example, the basketball
system may include a support structure and the barrier may be
connected to a front portion of the support structure. The barrier
may help prevent damage and/or contact to the basketball system.
For instance, the barrier may help prevent damage and/or contact
with the support structure and/or the base. In addition, the
barrier may act as a rebound device so that when a basketball
strikes the barrier, the basketball is rebounded towards the
basketball court. Significantly, because the basketball may be
rebounded towards the basketball court and not away from the court,
a player may not have to chase a loose basketball and that may make
playing basketball more enjoyable. Further, the barrier may help to
strengthen and/or reinforce the support structure.
[0033] 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
[0034] The appended drawings contain figures of preferred
embodiments to further illustrate and 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 limit its
scope. The invention will be described and explained with
additional specificity and detail through the use of the
accompanying drawings in which:
[0035] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary portable
basketball system;
[0036] FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the exemplary portable
basketball system;
[0037] FIG. 3 is a front view of the exemplary portable basketball
system;
[0038] FIG. 4 is a right side view of the exemplary portable
basketball system;
[0039] FIG. 5 is a left side view of the exemplary portable
basketball system;
[0040] FIG. 6 is a top view of the exemplary portable basketball
system;
[0041] FIG. 7 is an enlarged right side view of a portion of the
exemplary portable basketball system;
[0042] FIG. 8 is an enlarged left side view of a portion of the
exemplary basketball system shown;
[0043] FIG. 9 is an enlarged upper perspective view of a portion of
the exemplary portable basketball system, illustrating a support
member connected to the base;
[0044] FIG. 10 is an enlarged lower perspective view of a portion
of the exemplary portable basketball system, illustrating a support
member connected to the base;
[0045] FIG. 11 is an enlarged upper perspective view of a portion
of the exemplary portable basketball system, illustrating a portion
of the base; and
[0046] FIG. 12 is an enlarged upper perspective view of a portion
of the exemplary portable basketball system, illustrating a portion
of a support member.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0047] The present invention is generally directed towards a
basketball system. The principles of the present invention,
however, are not limited to a basketball system. It will be
understood that, in light of the present disclosure, the basketball
system disclosed herein can be successfully used in connection with
other types of structures and devices, such as other types of
sporting equipment.
[0048] Additionally, to assist in the description of the basketball
system, words such as top, bottom, front, rear, right and left may
be used to describe the accompanying figures, which are not
necessarily drawn to scale. It will be appreciated, however, that
the basketball system can be located in a variety of desired
positions--including various angles, sideways and even upside down.
A detailed description of the basketball system now follows.
[0049] As shown in FIGS. 1-6, an exemplary basketball system 10 may
include a support structure 12 and a basketball goal 14. The
basketball system 10 shown in the accompanying figures and
described in more detail below is a portable basketball system that
is sized and configured to be selectively moved from one location
to another location. This may allow the basketball system 10 to be
quickly and easily moved, and the basketball system may be capable
of being moved by a single person, if desired. It will be
appreciated, however, that the basketball system 10 does not have
to be a portable basketball system and, for example, the basketball
system may be a permanent basketball system.
[0050] The basketball goal 14 may include a backboard 16 and a rim
18, and the support structure 12 may be sized and configured to
support the basketball goal above a support or playing surface. For
example, the support structure 12 may include one or more elongated
support members and these elongated support members may be
connected, which may form a strong and sturdy support for the
basketball goal. In greater detail, as shown in the accompanying
figures, the support structure 12 may include three elongated
support members. In particular, the support structure 12 may
include two front elongated support members 20, 22 and one rear
elongated support member 24. The front elongated support members
20, 22 preferably have about the same length and are preferably
disposed at an angle relative to each other. For instance, the
lower portions of the front support 20, 22 members are preferably
separated by a larger distance than the upper portions of the front
support members. Thus, the front support members 20, 22 may be
angled inwardly.
[0051] Additionally, as best seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, the front
elongated support members 20, 22 are preferably disposed in a
generally upward configuration and the front elongated support
members are preferably angled slightly rearwardly. For example, the
front elongated support members 20, 22 may be angled rearwardly
between about 5.degree. and about 15.degree.. It will be
appreciated that the front elongated support members 20, 22 may
also be disposed at other angles and in other configurations
depending, for example, upon the configuration of the support
structure 12.
[0052] The rear elongated support member 24 preferably has a length
that is larger than the length of the front elongated support
members 20, 22. The rear elongated support member 24 is also
preferably disposed in a generally upward configuration and the
rear elongated support member is preferably angled forwardly. In
particular, as best seen in FIGS. 1, 4 and 5, the rear elongated
support member 24 is preferably angled forwardly at an angle
between about 15.degree. and about 45.degree.. As shown in the
accompanying figures, the rear support member 24 may be angled
forwardly at a greater angle than the front support members 20, 22
extend rearwardly. Additionally, the ends of the front elongated
support members 20, 22 are preferably spaced apart from the end of
the rear elongated support member 24. It will be appreciated that
the rear elongated support member 24 may also be disposed at other
angles and in other configurations depending, for example, upon the
configuration of the support structure 12.
[0053] The front and rear elongated support members 20, 22, 24 are
preferably interconnected to form a three-legged support structure
12. Advantageously, this configuration may help create a strong and
sturdy support structure 12. In greater detail, the front elongated
support members 20, 22 are preferably connected to the rear
elongated support member 24 to form the three-legged support
structure, which may have a generally tripod-shaped configuration.
In particular, the lower ends of the front elongated support
members 20, 22 are preferably disposed proximate a front portion of
a base 26 and the upper ends of the front elongated support members
are preferably attached to an upper portion of the rear elongated
support member 24. Preferably, the upper ends of the front
elongated support members 20, 22 are attached at approximately
two-thirds of the height or length of the rear elongated support
member 24, but the front support members could be attached to any
suitable portion of the rear elongated support member. Thus, while
the front elongated support members 20, 22 preferably have a length
that is equal to about two-thirds of the length of the rear support
member 24, the front elongated support members could be longer or
shorter. Advantageously, the front and rear support members 20, 22,
24 may be directly connected or indirectly connected, for example
by brackets, to help create the support structure 12. The support
members 20, 22, 24 may also be connected in other suitable
arrangements and configurations depending, for example, upon the
intended use of the basketball system 10.
[0054] As best seen in FIGS. 1, 4 and 5, the upper end of the rear
support member 24 is preferably generally vertically aligned with
the lower ends of the front support members 20, 22. This may help
create a sturdy and stable portable basketball system 10. It will
be appreciated that the support structure 12 may also have other
suitable shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements depending,
for example, upon the intended use of the basketball system 10. For
instance, the support structure 12 may include other suitable
numbers of elongated support members and the elongated support
members may be connected at other appropriate angles, positions and
the like.
[0055] The support structure 12 is preferably constructed from
relatively strong and sturdy materials such as steel. In
particular, the support structure 12 may be constructed from metal
tubing. Advantageously, the metal tubing may be relatively strong
and lightweight. The metal tubing may have a generally circular,
square or rectangular cross-section and the metal tubing may be
interconnected together to create a strong, stable and/or rigid
support structure 12. It will be appreciated that the metal tubing
may be connected using fasteners, welding, adhesives and the like.
It will also be appreciated that the support structure 12 may be
constructed from other materials with suitable characteristics and
these portions of the basketball system 10 may have a variety of
appropriate shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements
depending, for example, upon the intended use of the basketball
system.
[0056] The basketball system 10 may include a base 26 and the base
may be sized and configured to receive ballast (such as sand, water
and the like), which may help prevent the basketball system 10 from
undesirably moving. For example, the base 26 may include the
receiving portion that is sized and configured to receive ballast.
If desired, the base 26 may also sized and configured to receive
and/or store items such as basketballs, nets and the like.
[0057] Advantageously, the base 26 may form part of a structural
member of the basketball system 10. For example, the base 26 may be
sized and configured to receive and retain the support structure 12
in the desired location. In particular, the front elongated support
members 20, 22 may be connected to a front portion of the base 26
and the rear elongated support member 24 may be connected to a rear
portion of the base. Preferably, the support members 20, 22 and 24
are disposed proximate the edges or perimeter of the base 26, but
the support members may be connected to any desired portions of the
base. Significantly, no other components may be required to connect
the ends of the support members 20, 22 and 24. It will be
appreciated, however, that the base 26 does not have to form a
structural member of the basketball system 10 and the support
members 20, 22 and 24 may be connected using other components and
structures.
[0058] The basketball system 10 may include wheels to facilitate
movement of the basketball system. For example, the basketball
system 10 may include two wheels 28, 30 that are connected to the
base 26, but the wheels may be connected to other suitable portions
of the basketball system 10. The wheels 28, 30 are preferably
constructed from injection molded plastic and the wheels preferably
have a wide, thick and relatively large diameter to create strong
and sturdy wheels. The wheels 28, 30 may also include rounded pads
that may facilitate removal of the wheels from a mold. In addition,
the wheels 28, 30 may include one or more overlapping portions and
ribs, which may be used to enhance the appearance of the wheels. It
will be appreciated that the basketball system 10 may have any
number of wheels with various suitable shapes, sizes and
configurations, which may be constructed using any suitable
materials and processes. It will also be appreciated that the
basketball system 10 does not require any wheels.
[0059] The wheels 28, 30 may be disposed such that the wheels
contact a support surface to facilitate movement of the basketball
system 10. The wheels 28, 30 may also be positioned so that the
wheels are spaced apart from the support surface. The basketball
system 10 may be moved, for example, by tilting or pivoting the
system onto the wheels 28, 30. It will be understood that the
wheels 28, 30 may have other suitable configurations and
arrangements, be attached to other portions of the basketball
system 10, and the basketball system may be moved in other
appropriate manners.
[0060] The basketball system 10 may also include one or more
engaging members, such feet, stops, contacts or the like, that are
sized and configured to engage a support surface, such as the
playing surface. The engaging members may also be sized and
configured to help maintain the basketball system in a generally
fixed or stable position. In greater detail, as shown in FIGS. 2-5,
the basketball system 10 may include a first foot 32 and a second
foot 34 and the feet may be connected to the support structure 12.
In particular, the first foot 32 may be connected to the first
elongated support member 20 and the second foot 34 may be connected
to the second elongated support member 22. It will be appreciated
that the basketball system 10 may include any suitable number of
engaging members and the engaging members may be connected to any
appropriate portions of the basketball system. It will also be
appreciated that the engaging members may have various shapes,
sizes configurations and arrangements depending, for example, upon
the intended use of the basketball system 10.
[0061] The base 26 may be sized and configured to allow the feet
32, 34 to engage the support surface. For example, the feet 32, 34
may be connected to the front elongated support members 20, 22 and
the feet and/or support members may extend through openings or
cutouts in the base 26. This may allow the feet 32, 34 to engage
the support surface. Thus, the base 26 and/or feet 32, 34 may
engage the support surface, which may help prevent the basketball
system 10 from undesirably moving. In addition, if the feet 32, 34
contact the support surface, then the feet may support at least a
portion of the weight of the basketball system 10 and that may
apply less weight on the base 26, which may help prevent damage to
the base. Further, the support members 20, 22 and/or feet 32, 34
may be connected to the base 26 and/or disposed within the openings
or cutouts in the base. Preferably, the support members 20, 22
and/or feet 32, 34 are connected to and/or disposed proximate a
lower portion of the base 26, but the support members and/or feet
may be connected to any suitable portions of the base.
[0062] The feet 32, 34 may be movable among a plurality of
positions relative to the basketball system 10. For example, the
feet 32, 34 may include a threaded portion and the support members
20, 22 may include a threaded portion adapted to mate with and
receive the threaded portion of the feet. This may allow the feet
32, 34 to be moved relative to the support members 20, 22 to allow
the support members and the feet to be connected in various
relative positions. Although the threaded portions of the support
members 20, 22 and the feet 32, 34 may be used to position the
support members and feet in a variety of relative positions, it
will be appreciated that the support members and feet do not
require any threaded portions and that the support members and feet
may be positioned in a variety of relative positions using any
other suitable means. As discussed below, moving the feet 32, 34
relative to the support structure 12 may allow the basketball
system 10 to be disposed in a desired location, help level or
adjust the basketball system, and/or allow the height of the
basketball system to be adjusted.
[0063] In greater detail, the feet 32, 34 may be movable between a
position in which the feet engage a support surface and a position
in which the feet are spaced apart from the support surface. The
feet 32, 34 may also be movable between a position in which the
wheels 28, 30 engage the support surface and a position in which
the wheels are spaced apart from the support surface. Thus, for
instance, the feet 32, 34 may be moved so that the wheels 28, 30
are spaced apart from the support surface and the feet securely
engage the support surface so that the basketball system 10 may be
held in a generally fixed or stationary position. On the other
hand, the basketball system 10 may be configured such that when the
feet 32, 34 securely engage the support surface, then the
basketball system 10 is held in a generally fixed or stationary
position even if the wheels 28, 30 engage the support surface. In
addition, the feet 32, 34 may be moved so that the feet are spaced
apart from the support surface, which may facilitate movement of
the basketball system 10. Therefore, when the feet 32, 34 are
spaced apart from the support surface and/or when the wheels 28, 30
engage the support surface, the basketball system 10 may be readily
portable and more easily moved to a desired location. In contrast,
if the feet 32, 34 engage the support surface and/or the wheels 28,
30 are spaced apart from the support surface, then the basketball
system 10 may be held in a generally fixed or stationary
position.
[0064] The feet 32, 34 are preferably moved independently, which
may allow the feet to be separately adjusted. Thus, one foot may
contact the support surface while the other foot is spaced apart
from the support surface. In addition, the feet 32, 34 may be used
to locate the basketball goal 14 in various desired positions or
orientations. The feet 32, 34 may also be used to adjust the
positioning of the basketball goal 14. For example, the feet 32, 34
may be movable between a first position in which the basketball
goal 14 is at a first orientation and a second position in which
the basketball goal 14 is at a second orientation. This may allow
the basketball goal 14 to be disposed in an upright position even
when the basketball system 10 is placed on a non-planar and/or
non-level support surface. Therefore, the basketball system 10 may
be used on uneven or sloped support surface.
[0065] In greater detail, if the basketball goal 14 is not located
in an upright position when resting on a particular support
surface, some or all of the feet 32, 34 may be moved to tilt or
position the basketball goal 14 in the desired. For example, the
first foot 32 may be moved upwardly to tilt the basketball system
10 and the basketball goal 14 in one direction, or the foot may be
moved downwardly to tilt the basketball system and the basketball
goal in the other direction. Similarly, the second foot 34 may be
moved downwardly to tilt the basketball system 10 and the
basketball goal 14 in one direction, or the foot may be moved
upwardly to tilt the basketball system and the basketball goal in
the other direction.
[0066] Additionally, the feet 32, 34 may be sized and configured to
allow the height of the basketball goal 14 to be adjusted. For
example, the feet 32, 34 may be movable between a position in which
the basketball goal 14 is at a first height and a position in which
the basketball goal 14 is at a second height. The basketball system
10 may also include, if desired, a height adjustment mechanism such
as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,120,396; 6,273,834; and 6,699,146,
which are incorporated by reference in their entireties.
[0067] As best shown in FIGS. 1 and 4-8, the basketball system 10
may include an adjustment assembly 36 that may be sized and
configured to adjust the positioning or orientation of the
basketball goal 14. For example, the adjustment assembly 36 may
adjust the positioning or orientation of the basketball goal 14 by,
for example, tilting or moving the basketball goal forward,
backwards and/or sideways. Desirably, the adjustment assembly 36
may be used to move the basketball goal 14 from a first generally
fixed position in which the basketball goal is in one orientation
to a second generally fixed position in which the basketball goal
is in a different orientation. Consequently, the adjustment
assembly 36 may allow a person to properly position the basketball
goal 14 in an upright position, even when the basketball system 10
is placed on a non-planar and/or non-level support surface.
[0068] The adjustment assembly 36 may include a first bracket 38, a
second bracket 40, a third bracket 42 and a fourth bracket 44. The
brackets 38, 40 may be connected to the support structure 12 or a
height adjustment mechanism and the brackets 42, 44 may be
connected to the basketball goal 14. In particular, the brackets
42, 44 may be connected to the backboard 16 or a portion of the
backboard, such as a backboard bracket or frame, but the brackets
could be attached to any suitable portions of the basketball goal
14.
[0069] The brackets 38, 40, 42, 44 preferably include one or more
openings that allow the brackets to be connected. Preferably, the
brackets 38, 40, 42, 44 can be connected in various positions or at
different angles to allow the position or angle of the basketball
goal 14 to be adjusted. For example, the brackets may include
openings that are sized and configured to allow the first bracket
38 to be connected to the third bracket 42 and the second bracket
40 to be connected to the fourth bracket 44 by one or more
fasteners. In greater detail, the first bracket 38 may include
openings 46, 48, 50 and the second bracket 40 may include openings
52, 54, 56. The third and fourth brackets 42, 44 may include
corresponding openings so that a fastener may extend through the
corresponding openings to allow the brackets to be interconnected.
Specifically, a fastener 58 may extend through the opening 46 in
the first bracket and a corresponding opening in the third bracket
42 to connect the first and third brackets. Similarly, fasteners
60, 62 may extend through the openings 48, 50 in the first bracket
and corresponding openings in the third bracket 42 to connect the
first and third brackets. Likewise, fasteners 64, 66, 68 may extend
through the openings 52, 54, 56 in the second bracket 40 and
corresponding openings in the fourth bracket 44 to connect the
second and fourth brackets. It will be appreciated that the
brackets 38, 40, 42, 44 may be connected in other suitable
configurations and arrangements. For instance, a single fastener
may be used to connect all four of the brackets.
[0070] The openings in the brackets 38, 40, 42, 44 are preferably
sized and configured to allow the brackets to be connected in
various positions and at different angles. For example, the
openings 46, 48, 50 in the first bracket 38 may consist of slots
that are disposed at different angles and the slots may have
different lengths. Similarly, the openings 52, 54, 56 in the second
bracket 40 may also consist of slots that are disposed at different
angles and the slots may have different lengths. The slots are
preferably sized and configured to allow the brackets 38, 40, 42,
44 to be connected in a variety of suitable arrangements and
configurations. In addition, the slots 48, 54 may include a
serrated portion with a plurality of projections and recesses. The
recesses are preferably sized and configured to receive and retain
a fastener in a generally fixed location, which may assist in the
positioning of the brackets 38, 40, 42, 44 and the basketball goal
14.
[0071] In order to adjust the positioning of the brackets 38, 40,
42, 44 and/or the basketball goal 14, some or all of the fasteners
58, 60, 62, 64, 66, 68 may be loosened and/or detached. The
brackets 38, 40, 42, 44 and/or the basketball goal 14 may then be
moved into the desired locations and the fasteners 58, 60, 62, 64,
66, 68 may then be tightened and/or attached to secure the
basketball goal in the desired orientation.
[0072] It will be appreciated that the brackets 38, 40, 42, 44 and
openings 46, 48, 50, 52, 54, 56 may have a wide variety of suitable
shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements depending, for
example, upon the intended use of the basketball system 10. For
example, the brackets 38, 40, 42, 44 may include a plurality of
openings and different openings may be used to connect the brackets
in different positions. That is, a first set of openings may be
used to connect the brackets 38, 40, 42, 44 in a first position and
a second set of openings may be used to connect the brackets in a
second position. It will be appreciated that the first and second
sets of openings may include some of the same openings and the
openings may have any suitable sizes and configurations. Further,
it will be appreciate that not all the fasteners may have to be
removed or loosened and other suitable types of devices and
mechanisms may be used to connect the basketball goal 14 to the
support structure 12.
[0073] The adjustment assembly 36 may be connected to the support
structure 12 by one or more connecting members. For example, the
support structure 12 may include connecting members 70, 72, 74, 76
that are connected to the rear elongated support member 24 and the
adjustment assembly 36. In particular, the connecting members 70,
72 may be pivotally connected to the bracket 38 of the adjustment
assembly 36 and the support member 24 of the support structure 12.
The connecting members 74, 76 may be pivotally connected to the
bracket 40 of the adjustment assembly 36 and the support member 24
of the support structure 12. The connecting members 70, 72, 74, 76
may form a generally parallelogram-shaped connection and the
connecting members may allow the basketball goal 14 to be moved
relative to the support structure 14, which may allow the height of
the rim 18 to be adjusted. For instance, the basketball goal 14 may
be positioned so that the rim 18 is ten feet above the playing
surface, which is the conventional height for playing basketball.
The basketball goal 14 may be moved to other positions in which the
rim 18 is disposed at other heights, such as nine feet, eight feet,
seven feet, six feet and the like. Advantageously, this may allow
children and others to play basketball. The rim 18 may also be
disposed at greater heights, if desired.
[0074] A height adjustment mechanism may be to adjust the height of
the basketball goal 14. The height adjustment mechanism may be
connected to the connecting members 70, 72, 74, 76 and the support
structure 12. Additional information regarding other suitable
configurations and aspects of height-adjustable basketball goals
and, in general, basketball systems is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
5,695,417; U.S. Pat. No. 5,879,247; U.S. Pat. No. 6,077,177; U.S.
Pat. No. 6,120,396; U.S. Pat. No. 6,155,938; U.S. Pat. No.
6,135,901; U.S. Pat. No. 6,142,891; U.S. Pat. No. 6,273,834; U.S.
Pat. No. 6,419,597; U.S. Pat. No. 6,419,598; U.S. Pat. No.
6,402,644; U.S. Pat. No. 6,422,957; U.S. Pat. No. 6,645,095; U.S.
Pat. No. 6,699,146; U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
60/706,637, which was filed on Aug. 8, 2005; and U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/333,914, which was filed on Jan. 17, 2006.
Each of these patents and applications are incorporated by
reference in their entireties.
[0075] As shown in the accompanying figures and shown in the
above-listed patents and applications, the support structure 12 and
the basketball goal 14 may have a variety of suitable shapes,
sizes, configurations and arrangements. In addition, the basketball
goal 14 may be connected to the support structure 12 using various
suitable structures and various types of structures may be used to
adjust the height of the basketball goal 14, if desired. Further,
the basketball system 10 may also have a variety of suitable
shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements depending, for
example, upon the intended use of the basketball system.
[0076] As shown in FIGS. 1-6, the basketball system 10 may include
a barrier, guard or rebound portion 78, which may be disposed on or
near a front portion of the support structure 12. The barrier 78
may help to prevent damage to the base 26 and/or the support
structure 12. In addition, the barrier 78 may help prevent players
or a basketball from inadvertently contacting the base 26 and/or
the support structure 12 during play. The barrier 78 may also help
to strengthen and/or reinforce the support structure 12. In
addition, the barrier 78 may be sized and configured as a ball
return. In particular, when basketball contacts the barrier 78, the
barrier may advantageously guide the basketball to a particular
position. To help guide the basketball, the barrier 78 may be
positioned at an angle at least about 70 degrees relative to the
portion of a support surface upon which the basketball system 10
rests. In particular, the barrier 78 is preferably positioned at an
angle between about 75 degrees and 85 degrees relative to the
support surface upon which the basketball system 10 rests, but the
barrier may be positioned at any suitable angle.
[0077] The barrier 78 may be connected to the support members 20,
22 of the support structure 12 using fasteners; adhesives; a snap
fit, a friction fit and/or an interference fit; and/or any other
suitable means. In one exemplary embodiment, the barrier 78 may be
connected to the support members 20, 22 by releasable connectors,
such as clips, to allow the barrier to be detached from the system
if sufficient force is applied.
[0078] The barrier 78 may be constructed from plastic, such as high
density polyethylene. Advantageously, the plastic may allow a
barrier with increased strength and rigidity to be constructed. The
plastic may also allow a strong, sturdy and weather resistant
barrier to be created. The barrier 78 may be constructed from
blow-molded plastic, but other processes such as injection molding,
rotary molding, compression molding and the like may also be used
to construct the barrier. The barrier 78 may also be constructed
from other materials and processes with suitable
characteristics.
[0079] Advantageously, if the barrier 78 is constructed from
blow-molded plastic, the barrier may be rigid, high-strength and
capable of withstanding repeated use and wear. The blow-molded
plastic barrier may also be easily manufactured and formed into the
desired size and shape. In addition, the blow-molded plastic
barrier may be strong and lightweight because the barrier may
include two opposing walls that are spaced apart by a relatively
small and generally constant distance. Further, the blow-molded
plastic barrier may be lightweight because the barrier may include
a hollow interior portion, which may be formed during the
blow-molding process. The blow-molded plastic barrier may also
include one or more depressions or tack-offs that may interconnect
the opposing walls and these depressions may further increase the
strength of the barrier.
[0080] As shown in FIG. 3, the blow-molded plastic barrier may
include one or more openings or cutouts 80, 82 that may
interconnect the opposing walls. These cutouts 80, 82 may be sized
and configured to increase the strength of the barrier by, for
example, interconnecting the opposing walls. The cutouts 80, 82 may
be formed by removing a portion of the opposing walls that contact,
abut and/or engage each other. It will be appreciated, however,
that the cutouts 80, 82 may be formed in any other suitable
manner.
[0081] The barrier 78 could also be constructed from other suitable
materials and processes. For example, the barrier 78 may include a
net, which may include a relatively fine mesh that allows light to
pass through and the net may help to prevent damage to the base
and/or support structure. The barrier 78 could have a variety of
suitable sizes and configurations, but the basketball system 10
does not require the barrier.
[0082] As shown in FIGS. 9-12, the basketball system 10 may include
one or more locking members, which may be sized and configured to
help connect the support structure 12 to the base 26. For example,
the basketball system 10 may include locking members 84, 86 that
are connected to an axle 88 and the support member 24.
Advantageously, the locking members 84, 86 and the support member
24 may be quickly and easily connected to the axle 88. The base 26
may include receiving portions 90, 92 that are sized and configured
to receive and/or retain at least a portion of the locking members
84, 86. In particular, the receiving portions 90, 92 may be sized
and configured to secure the locking members in a generally fixed
position relative to the base. For example, the locking members 84,
86 preferably have a generally wedge-shaped configuration, and the
receiving portions 90, 92 preferably have a complementary shaped
configuration that is sized and configured to contact, abut and/or
engage one or more portions of the locking members to secure the
locking members in a generally fixed position relative to the
base.
[0083] The basketball system 10 may include another locking member
94 that may be quickly and easily connected to the support member
24 by inserting the locking member through one or more openings 96
in the support member. With the receiving portions 90, 92 receiving
and/or retaining at least a portion of the locking members 84, 86,
the support member 24 may be pivoted about the axle 88 to a desired
position. The base 26 may include one or more receiving portions
98, 100 sized and configured to receive and/or retain a portion of
the locking member 94 to secure the support member 24 in the
desired position. For example, the receiving portions 98, 100 may
be sized and configured to receive and/or retain the locking member
94 using a snap fit, a friction fit and/or an interference fit.
[0084] 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.
* * * * *