U.S. patent application number 12/175044 was filed with the patent office on 2009-03-12 for rebound sports training apparatus.
Invention is credited to Luke Leonard Martin Porter.
Application Number | 20090069125 12/175044 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38476401 |
Filed Date | 2009-03-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090069125 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Porter; Luke Leonard
Martin |
March 12, 2009 |
Rebound Sports Training Apparatus
Abstract
A portable rebound (or deflecting) sports training device having
at least a first rebound panel or surface adapted to rebound a ball
away from the device, and a support structure adapted to hold the
panel in a first, operational condition in which the panel is held
generally upright; the panel and the support structure having a
second, transport or storage, configuration relative to each other
such that the panel and support structure lie flatter (or generally
flat) relative to each other in the direction transverse to the
rebound panel such that the device occupies less space.
Inventors: |
Porter; Luke Leonard Martin;
(Birmingham, GB) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MCDONNELL BOEHNEN HULBERT & BERGHOFF LLP
300 S. WACKER DRIVE, 32ND FLOOR
CHICAGO
IL
60606
US
|
Family ID: |
38476401 |
Appl. No.: |
12/175044 |
Filed: |
July 17, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
473/435 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2071/024 20130101;
A63B 2210/50 20130101; A63B 2243/0037 20130101; A63B 69/0053
20130101; A63B 2071/026 20130101; A63B 2102/20 20151001; A63B
2102/22 20151001; A63B 2243/0025 20130101; A63B 69/0097
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/435 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/40 20060101
A63B069/40 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 17, 2007 |
GB |
0713825.8 |
Nov 13, 2007 |
GB |
0722194.8 |
Mar 31, 2008 |
GB |
0805788.7 |
Claims
1. A portable rebound soccer football training device having a
rebound panel comprising a plurality of projections against which
in use a football is to be directed for rebounding or deflecting
from the panel, the projections comprising spaced apart projections
having tips adapted to flex the surface of a football inwards into
the football, in use, and the tips being spaced between 1/2 inch
and 31/2 inches apart.
2. A portable rebound soccer football training device according to
claim 1 wherein the tips are spaced apart by a distance from the
group: (i) between 1 and 2 inches (ii) between 1 and 11/2 inches
(iii) about 11/2 inches (iv) about 13/4 inches.
3. A portable rebound soccer football training device according to
claim 1 in which the projections have pointed tips, and wherein the
panel extends generally upright.
4. A portable rebound soccer football training device according to
claim 3, wherein the projections comprise elongate ribs or
ridges.
5. A portable rebound soccer football training device according to
claim 4 wherein the ribs or ridges are provided with a pointed tip
and wherein the ribs or ridges extend generally parallel to each
other, and are evenly spaced apart.
6. A portable rebound soccer football training device according to
claim 1 wherein the projections are formed from a zig-zag
corrugated sheet.
7. A portable rebound soccer football training device according to
claim 1 comprising at least one support or foot adapted to hold the
panel generally upright in use.
8. A portable rebound soccer football training device according to
claim 1 wherein the support comprises at least one side frame or
panel extending in use generally transversely to the rebound
panel.
9. A portable rebound soccer football training device according to
claim 8 wherein the or each side panel or frame has a triangular
shape such that force from a ball that hits the rebound panel is
directed at least in part into the ground, via the or each side
panel or frame.
10. A portable rebound soccer football training device according to
claim 9 wherein there are two side panels or frames, and a bracing
member connects them at a region of the side panels or frames
disposed away from the region of the panels or frames connected to
the rebound panel.
11. A portable rebound soccer football training device according to
claim 1 wherein in use the device comprises a triangle or
quadrilateral, or other closed shape, bounded on at least three, or
four, sides by structural members, at least one of the structural
members comprising the rebound panel, and having open sides above
and below the plane of the triangle, quadrilateral, or other closed
shape, defined by the structural members, and wherein the open
sides are disposed one against the ground in use and another,
opposed to the one open side, at the top of the device.
12. A portable rebound soccer football training device according to
claim 1 wherein the device can be rolled, turned, or otherwise
moved to a different orientation relative to the ground so that the
same rebound panel can have two different angles of inclination
relative to the ground, with the device in two different
orientations relative to the ground.
13. A portable rebound soccer football training device according to
claim 1 further comprising one or more feet adapted to engage the
ground or floor, and wherein the feet are removable from first
feet-location positions on the device and reattachable at second
feet-location devices, so as to enable the same feet to be used
with the device in different orientations relative to the
ground.
14. A kit for assembly into a portable rebound sports training
device, the kit comprising: a first rebound panel adapted to
rebound or deflect a ball away from the device; a support structure
adapted to hold the panel in a first operational condition in which
the panel is held generally upright; the first rebound panel and
support structure being flat packed to occupy less space compared
to when the device is in its operational condition; and wherein the
rebound panel comprises a zig-zag formed sheet having a plurality
of ridges having pointed tips adapted to project into the surface
of a ball that hits the panel, the tips of the ridges being between
1/2 inch and 31/2 inches apart.
15. A portable training device comprising at least one
substantially upright corrugated rebound panel defining a flat or
curved substantially horizontally-orientated series of tipped
ridges, and at least a first substantially perpendicular support
panel in connection with said rebound box.
16. The device of claim 15, further comprising a second
substantially perpendicular support panel in connection with said
rebound panel and being spaced apart from said first support
panel.
17. The device of claim 16, further comprising at least one cross
member connected between said first and said second support
panels.
18. The device of claim 16, wherein said first and second support
panels further comprising top and bottom standing ends, said top
and bottom standing ends comprising apertures for receiving
removable members positioned between said support panels and a
horizontal surface.
19. The device of claim 15, wherein said tipped ridges are spaced
apart by a distance of 1 inch; 11/4 inches, 11/2 inches, 13/4
inches, or two inches.
20. A training device comprising: (a) a substantially upright
corrugated panel having panel top and bottom standing ends, said
panel defining a horizontal series of ridged tips, wherein the tips
are spaced approximately 13/4 inches apart, said corrugated panel
being in connection with: (b) two substantially orthogonally
orientated side panels having side panel top and bottom standing
ends, said side member top and bottom standing ends comprising one
or more apertures for receiving removable foot members; (c) a
bracing member connected between said side panels, said side panels
being adapted to receive said bracing member, and said bracing
member comprising a spring mechanism for connection and
disconnection between said side panels.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] Many people will have played a game where a football is
kicked against a brick wall and the rebound is then played (e.g.
kicking it again against the brick wall with one or two touches).
This game can be played by a single player or by more than one
player, for example taking it in turns to kick the ball. The game
helps to develop ball control skills and the skills in estimating
the timing of running to meet a ball.
[0002] Unfortunately, there is not always a brick wall to hand.
Some walls have windows. Some are next to roads. Some are simply
not present (eg in the middle of a field).
[0003] An aim of one embodiment of the invention is to provide a
sports training rebound apparatus that is portable and can be
conveniently moved and positioned in whatever desired location.
[0004] The invention is not restricted to football training
apparatus, for example, cricket and hockey are also specifically
envisaged as applications.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0005] The scope of the protection for this invention(s) is defined
in the claims.
[0006] As mentioned, it is a typical pastime and training drill for
people (children, young adults and old adults) who play ball sports
(such as football/soccer) to project a ball toward a surface such
as a wall and for the ball to rebound back to them for them then to
repeat the exercise. This invention gives people the opportunity to
practice this type of drill in a number of different situations
with one or a number of wall type surfaces available. Some
embodiments of the invention are designed to be able to be
assembled from flat pack and dissembled such that the rebound boxes
can be used anywhere. For example one typical constraint of a child
using a walled area in say a garden is that the wall is normally
fixed. This can result in a grassed area getting repeated use which
causes excessive wear in some areas eg muddy areas. The mobility of
the rebound box means that it can be moved to different locations
thereby reducing the excessive wear in certain areas. Of additional
benefit is the ability to use one or a number of rebound boxes in
training drills with one or a number of people participating. The
design of rebound box is such that the surfaces of the box may be
flat or any number of different surface shapes. This variety of
shapes gives the participants increased enjoyment and challenge in
accommodating the path of the ball having rebounded from the
rebound box or been deflected by a surface of the rebound box. The
mobility of the rebound box means that it can be used on say
football training grounds in a way that a fixed wall would not have
the convenience to provide. The invention gives participants
unlimited imagination in the way to use one or a number of rebound
boxes for training drills or for fun. The rebound box is not
limited to its use in football, but can be used in anyway where a
surface would be fun and/or useful in rebounding or deflecting a
ball. For example, it could be deployed in one form as a cricket
training drill device.
[0007] According to one aspect, the invention comprises a portable
rebound or deflecting football training device having a rebound
panel comprising a plurality of projections against which in use a
football is to be directed for rebounding or deflecting from the
panel, the projections comprising spaced apart projections having
tips adapted to flex the surface of a football inwards into the
football, in use, and the tips being spaced between 1 and 8 cm
apart, preferably between about 3 and about 5 cm apart, and most
preferably about 4 cm apart.
[0008] The rebound panel may be disposed in a generally upright
position.
[0009] The projections may comprise elongate ribs or ridges. The
projections, ribs or ridges may be provided with a pointed tip. The
ribs or ridges may extend generally parallel to each other, and may
be evenly spaced part. The ribs or ridges may not be all the same
distance from the next adjacent ridge.
[0010] The ribs or ridges may be formed in sheet material. The
sheet material may comprise a ziz-zag corrugated sheet. The sheet
material may comprise steel or iron or other ferrous metal.
[0011] The ribs or ridges comprise rods or bars or slats, possibly
provided with a pointed edge. The rods or bars or slats may
comprise steel or iron or other ferrous metal.
[0012] The portable rebound or deflecting football training device
may have at least one support or foot adapted to hold the panel
generally upright in use. The support may comprise at least one
side frame or panel extending in use generally transversely to the
rebound panel.
[0013] Side frames or panels may be provided. The, or each, side
panel or frame may have a triangular or wedge shape such that force
from a ball that hits the rebound panel is directed at least in
part into the ground, via the or each side panel or frame.
[0014] The or each side panel or frame may be movable between a
position of use in which it extends transversely away from the
rebound panel and props it up, to a storage position in which it
extends generally parallel to the rebound panel. The, or each, side
panel may be movable by being detachable from the rebound panel,
e.g. by being bolted onto it.
[0015] At least one of the side frame(s) or panel(s) is, preferably
or optionally,
(i) angularly movable relative to the rebound panel so as to be
able to move between their operative and storage positions; or (ii)
removable from the rebound panel so as to be able to be placed
alongside it in the storage position. There may be two side panels
or frames and wherein: both of the side panels may be (i) above, or
both may be (ii) above, or one may be (i) and one may be (ii)
above.
[0016] There may be two side panels or frames, and a bracing
member, optionally a strut or bar, connecting them at a region of
the side panels or frames disposed away from the region of the
panels or frames connected to the rebound panel. The strut or bar
may be movable relative to the side panels or frames so as to be
movable from a position of use in which it braces the side panels
of frames, and a storage position in which it extends generally
parallel to the side panel or frames.
[0017] In the storage position, the side panel(s) or frame(s), and
if provided the bracing member, may be capable of being positioned
to lie disposed generally parallel, for example stacked on top of
each other.
[0018] The device may comprise a triangle or quadrilateral (e.g.
square in cross section, or trapezium-shaped in cross section), or
other closed shape, bounded on at least three, or four, sides by
structural members, at least one of the structural members
comprising the rebound panel, and having open sides above and below
the plane of the triangle, quadrilateral, or other closed shape
defined by the structural members. The open sides may be disposed
one against the ground in use and another, opposed to the one open
side, at the top of the device.
[0019] In use the open sides may be disposed generally vertically,
at the ends of a box formed by the structural members.
[0020] The portable rebound or deflecting football training device
may comprise at least two rebound panels separated from each other
and inclined to each other at an angle, so that they present
rebound panels inclined relative to the ground at different
angles.
[0021] The device may be rolled, turned, or otherwise moved to a
different orientation relative to the ground so that the same
rebound panel can have two different angles of inclination relative
to the ground, with the device in two different orientations
relative to the ground.
[0022] The portable rebound or deflecting football training device
may have one or more feet adapted to engage the ground or floor.
The feet may be removable from first feet-location positions on the
device and reattachable at second feet-location devices, so as to
enable the same feet to be used with the device in different
orientations relative to the ground.
[0023] The device may have one or more side panels attached to the
(or each) rebound panel, the side panels having a flange at their
lower edge, or at both their upper and lower edges, and the feet
may be provided on the flanges, or the flange(s) may comprise the
feet.
[0024] According to another aspect of the invention, there is
provided a portable rebound (or deflecting) sports training device
having at least a first rebound panel or surface adapted to rebound
a ball away from the device, and a support structure adapted to
hold the panel in a first, operational condition in which the panel
is held generally upright; the panel and the support structure
having a second, transport or storage, configuration relative to
each other such that the panel and support structure lie flatter
(or generally flat) relative to each other in the direction
transverse to the rebound panel such that the device occupies less
space.
[0025] The support structure may comprise at least two support
walls or frames that extend transverse to the rebound panel in the
operational condition and extend generally parallel to the panel in
the transport or storage condition.
[0026] The support structure may have a rear bracing member spaced
from the rebound panel in the operational condition of the
device.
[0027] The support structure may have a top member, a bottom
member, and the bracing member bracing the top and bottom members
in the operational condition, and the top, bottom and bracing
members all being capable of being aligned generally parallel with
the plane of the rebound panel in the transport or storage
condition of the device. The bracing member may comprise a second
rebound panel. The top or bottom member may comprise a further,
third rebound panel. Both the top and bottom members may comprise
rebound panels.
[0028] The portable rebound (or deflecting) sports training device
may comprise a box-section device having first, second, third and
fourth rebound panels each having a longitudinal extent and each
forming a side of a four sided box when the device is in the
operational condition, and each being capable of flat-packing to
lie generally parallel to each other when the device is in the
transport or storage condition. At least two of the first, second,
third and fourth rebound panels that extend at a common edge of the
box in the operational condition may be hingedly connected to each
other and fold relative to each other to the flat pack transport or
storage condition.
[0029] At least two of the first, second, third and fourth rebound
panels that extend at a common edge of the box may be separable so
as to enable at least two panels to lie flat relative to each other
when the box is put in its flat-packing transport or storage
condition. All 4 or at least 3 of the panels may be detachable in
the transport configuration from the panel that is adjacent them
when the box is in the operational condition, so as to enable the
box to be flat packed.
[0030] The bracing member (or second rebound panel) may extend
generally parallel to the first rebound panel when the device is in
the operational condition.
[0031] The rebound panel, or a rebound panel, may have a flat
rebound surface (or one where there is a panel extending in, or
about, a general flat plane).
[0032] The, or a, rebound panel may have a curved rebound surface,
preferably curved about a longitudinal axis (or may be disposed
about a curved shape). The, or a, rebound panel may have a convex
rebound surface, preferably convex about a longitudinal axis (or be
disposed about a convex shape). The, or a, rebound panel may have a
concave rebound surface, preferably concave about a longitudinal
axis (or may be disposed about a concave shape).
[0033] The, or a, rebound panel may have a rippled or ridged
rebound surface (or have other projections), preferably the ripples
having an elongate axis of extent, or generally transverse axis of
extent.
[0034] The rebound surface may be generally vertical, in use, in
the operational condition. The rebound surface may be inclined, in
use, to the vertical in the operational condition, either towards
or away from the ground.
[0035] There may be two elongate rebound panels extending in a
longitudinal direction, and at an angle relative to each other when
the device is in the operational condition, the device being
capable of being turned over about its longitudinal axis to change
which one of the two rebound panels is generally vertical and which
one is transverse to the vertical.
[0036] According to another aspect, the invention comprises a
portable rebound (or deflecting) sports training device comprising
a box having 4 rebound panels and capable of being turned about its
longitudinal axis to bring each of the panels to the front face of
the box, the box being capable of being flat packed.
[0037] At least two of the rebound panels may have different
external faces from the group: (1) flat face, (2) convex face, (3)
concave face, (4) rippled (or ridged/tined) face.
[0038] The, each, or at least one or two of the panels may have
hand holds extending through them.
[0039] The portable rebound (or deflecting) sports training device
may, when in operational condition, have a weight introduced inside
it. The weight may comprise sand, gravel, water or sand, gravel or
water bags or containers. The device may have spikes, or apertures
adapted to receive spikes, to hold it to the ground.
[0040] The portable rebound (or deflecting) sports training device
may further comprise at least one, or a pair of opposed, section
walls extending across the cross section of the device. The section
wall or walls may comprise end walls of a box-like device. The
edges of the two adjoining panels may be joined together by joints
(e.g. interlocking fingers) provided along the elongate edges of
the panels.
[0041] The portable rebound (or deflecting) sports training device
may have a frame, and one or more rebound panels mounted on the
frame, optionally releasably mounted on the frame. The frame and
panel may each be provided with inter-engaging sliding formations
which enable the panels to be slid onto and off of the frame. The
panels may have male projecting sliding formations and the frame
female slots in which the male projecting sliding formations are
received (or vice-versa).
[0042] The portable rebound (or deflecting) sports training device
may comprise two sub-devices, each in accordance with any aspect of
the invention, one stacked on top of the other. The sub devices may
have inter-engaging keying or fastening formations which fasten the
two sub devices together in use.
[0043] According to another aspect, the invention comprises a kit
for assembly into a portable rebound sports training device, the
kit comprising: [0044] a first rebound panel adapted to rebound or
deflect a ball away from the device; [0045] a support structure
adapted to hold the panel in a first operational condition in which
the panel is held generally upright; [0046] the first rebound panel
and support structure being flat packed to occupy less space
compared to when the device is in its operational condition; [0047]
and, optionally, instructions on how to assemble the device to its
operational condition.
[0048] At least two, three, four, or five rebound panels, flat
packed relative to each other, may be provided. At least eight
rebound panels (for example two boxes), flat packed relative to
each other, may be provided. This may enable two, or four, or
eight, rebound boxes to be provided (or n, n/2, or n/4 boxes, where
n is the number of rebound panels in the kit).
[0049] At least twelve rebound panels (for example three boxes),
flat packed relative to each other, may be provided.
[0050] The kit may have instructions on different training drills
that can be performed with boxes/devices of the kit and/or
instructions on how to assemble the rebound device (devices).
[0051] According to another aspect the invention comprises a method
of sports training comprising transporting a portable rebound
sports training device in accordance with any preceding aspect of
the invention to a training location; assembling the device to its
operational condition in situ at the training location; bouncing or
deflecting a ball off the rebound panel and dealing with the
rebound or deflection.
[0052] The method may comprise using at least two of the portable
rebound sports training devices in a sports training drill.
[0053] The method may comprise performing a football training
exercise with the, or each, portable rebound sports training
device, or performing a cricket training exercise with the, or
each, portable rebound sports training device.
[0054] According to another aspect of the invention, a football
rebound box is provided having at least three panels (or at least
one panel) adapted to rebound a football, the panel or panels (or
at least one of the panels) comprising at least one projecting
point or ridge adapted in use to project into a ball that
encounters it to deflect the surface of the ball inwards locally to
influence the spring of the ball away from the panel.
[0055] A kit or a panel, may have the panel (or at least one of the
panels) comprise at least one projecting point or ridge adapted in
use to project into a ball that encounters it to deflect the
surface of the ball inwards locally to influence the spring of the
ball away from the panel.
[0056] The ridge(s)(or points) may extend generally in the
horizontal and/or vertical plane, when the box is in use.
[0057] According to another aspect of the invention there is
provided a football rebound box, in which there are a plurality of
points spaced apart by a distance such that no more than two points
(or three points) can poke into the ball at any one time.
[0058] There may be three or four panels each extending parallel to
each other. The panels may have an elongate extent in direction of
a central axis of the box/a box.
[0059] It will be appreciated that any feature of an aspect or
embodiment of the invention could be used with any other feature
(in any number and in any combination). Also, any feature, or
features, from one aspect or embodiment of the invention can be
used in any number and in any combination with other aspects or
embodiments of the invention, and with other features of other
aspects or embodiments of the invention.
LIST OF FIGURES/DIAGRAMS
[0060] FIG. 1 An example use for an embodiment of the invention
[0061] FIG. 2 An example construction of the rebound box
[0062] FIG. 2A An example of the contents of the rebound box when
packaged
[0063] FIG. 3 A further example construction of the rebound box
[0064] FIG. 4 Example surfaces of the rebound box
[0065] FIG. 5 Further example surfaces of the rebound box
[0066] FIG. 6 Example joining method for the panels comprising the
rebound box
[0067] FIG. 7 Further example of the construction of the rebound
box
[0068] FIG. 8 Cross section view of one example of the rebound
box
[0069] FIG. 8A Cross section of a method of affixing panels of the
rebound box FIG. 8B Cross section of a method of affixing panels of
the rebound box
[0070] FIG. 9 Further example of cross section view of the rebound
box
[0071] FIG. 10 Example operational use of two rebound boxes
[0072] FIG. 11 Example operational use of three rebound boxes
[0073] FIG. 12 Further example operational use of three rebound
boxes
[0074] FIG. 13 Further example operational use of three rebound
boxes with four players
[0075] FIG. 14 Example operational use of two rebound boxes and two
players training on a football pitch area
[0076] FIG. 15 Example operational use of four rebound boxes and
one player training on a football pitch area
[0077] FIG. 16 Example operational use of two pairs of rebound
boxes in a stacked formation
[0078] FIG. 17 Further example of the construction of the rebound
box
[0079] FIG. 18 Example corner block fixing mechanism for two panels
of the rebound box
[0080] FIG. 19 Example operational effect of the rebound box where
two panels are not parallel
[0081] FIG. 20 Example operational use of the rebound box with four
players in a cricket training drill
[0082] FIG. 21 Example construction of the rebound box
[0083] FIG. 22 Example locations of holes in panel through which
bolts can be inserted
[0084] FIG. 23 Cross sectional end views of 3 example rebound
boxes
[0085] FIG. 24 Cross sectional end views of a further 3 example
rebound boxes
[0086] FIG. 25 Cross sectional end view of an example rebound box
with example impact points of balls projected towards the rebound
box
[0087] FIG. 26 Cross sectional end view of an example triangular
rebound box with example impact points of balls projected towards
the rebound box
[0088] FIG. 27 Cross sectional end views of a further 3 example
rebound boxes showing boxes can be rotated to sit on different
panel sides
[0089] FIG. 28 Overhead angled view of example rebound box
[0090] FIG. 29 Cross sectional view of example rebound box
[0091] FIG. 30 Figure depicting deployment of connection rods
[0092] FIG. 31 Example of rebound box
[0093] FIG. 32 Example of rebound box with feet
[0094] FIG. 33 Example of differing sitting positions of rebound
box
[0095] FIG. 34 Example construction of rebound box
[0096] FIG. 35 Example construction of rebound box
[0097] FIG. 36 Example construction of rebound box
[0098] FIG. 37 Example construction of rebound box
[0099] FIG. 38 Example construction of rebound box
[0100] FIG. 39 Indicative diagram of one moment of impact of a ball
with rebound box panel
[0101] FIG. 40 Indicative diagram of one moment of impact of a ball
with rebound box panel
[0102] FIG. 41 shows another embodiment of the rebound box; and
[0103] FIG. 42 shows a still further embodiment of the rebound
box.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0104] FIG. 1 shows the rebound box 101 where a ball 102 is
projected towards the rebound box and the ball rebounds off one of
the sides of the rebound box. This is a typical effect for which
the rebound box is used.
[0105] A rebound box is shown in FIG. 2. It has an elongate square
section hollow tunnel shape having an elongate length of between
100 and 200 cms long by 40 cms to 80 cms tall. It is made from four
metal (eg steel) panels 206, 208, 210, 212, each of which is
substantially vertical. Screws or bolts 214, in this case pairs of
screws or bolts, releasably fasten an edge region 216 of one panel
to an edge region 218 of the adjacent panel, when the rebound box
is assembled as shown in FIG. 2. The screws or bolts 214 may screw
into bores in the regions 218 themselves, or into mounting blocks
(not shown) provided at the regions 218, or into some other
fixture.
[0106] The rebound box 200 is first supplied to a user disassembled
in a flat pack kit having the four identical panels 206, 208, 210,
212, and screws or bolts 214. Instructions, e.g. a sheet of
instructions 213, showing how to assemble the rebound box 200, may
be included. The panels 206, 208, 210, 212 are provided, typically,
one above the other, in registration, and may be strapped or bound
or otherwise held together. The instructions may include further
instructions 215 giving details of training exercises that can be
performed using the rebound box. The instructions 213 and 215 may
be on paper (e.g. the same or different pamphlet) or on computer
readable media.
[0107] FIG. 2A shows the rebound box in transportation state, in a
kit 220. The kit 220 can be transported flat packed easily and
assembled later, e.g. in situ at its position of use. It can also
be disassembled and flat packed again for transportation or
storage.
[0108] In FIG. 2 the rebound box 201 may have holes in the sides
depicted by 202 which act as hand holds allowing the rebound box to
be more easily moved or picked up. In addition the rebound box may
have additional weights inserted inside the box such as bags filled
with sand or plastic containers filled with water which give the
rebound box additional stability and solidity from which a
projected ball will rebound. The kit 220 may include empty
containers, e.g. bags, for filling with sand or water or the like.
Alternatively, the weight of the box may, on its own, be enough to
enable the box to be used effectively (for example if the box is
made of metal, e.g. steel).
[0109] In FIG. 3 the rebound box 301 may be open ended or have a
further end piece 302 in one or both ends of the rebound box,
possibly closing the end and/or providing additional rigidity.
[0110] In some embodiments, the panels (when mounted together/when
the box is assembled) have a degree of resilience such that they
have a springboard effect when a ball hits the middle region of a
panel, augmenting the pace of the rebound/deflection from the
panel. They can flex when struck by the ball and flex back, adding
power to the returning ball.
[0111] In FIG. 4 the four sides of the rebound box may have outward
(and inward) facing surfaces which are differing. FIG. 4 depicts
some examples of the differing outward facing surfaces that the
rebound box may have. 401 depicts a flat surface. 402 depicts a
variable shaped surface (or rippled surface). 403 depicts a concave
surface. 404 depicts a convex surface. 405 depicts a further
variable shaped surface. There are an unlimited number of surface
shapes that the rebound box may support. Where the rebound box has
end faces these also may have varying shaped surfaces to either one
or both ends. End panels may or may not be provided in the kit
220.
[0112] Although FIG. 4 shows the inner face of the panels as flat,
the inner face of the panels could be profiled or shaped to import
rebound/deflection characteristics. For example, one or more inner
surfaces may be profiled, for example with any of the panels of
FIG. 4, or "cobbled effect" to give an unpredictable bounce/rebound
in the vertical and horizontal directions, or vertical ribs to give
variation in angle of rebound in the horizontal plane. The panels
may be reversible (whether profiled on both sides or not), so as to
be able to be assembled into the box with either of their panel
surfaces facing outwards.
[0113] FIG. 5 shows the overhead view of example surfaces of the
sides of the rebound box. 501 depicts a concave surface. 502
depicts a convex surface. 503 depicts a flat surface. 504 and 505
depict variable shaped surfaces. There are an unlimited number of
surface shapes that the rebound box may support. The point of FIG.
4 and FIG. 5 is to demonstrate that the surface shapes of the sides
of the rebound box may vary in both the end view and plan view
perspectives. Where the rebound box has end faces these also may
have varying shaped surfaces in both the cross sectional and plan
perspectives.
[0114] The assembly of the rebound box may be in a number of ways.
For convenience it is intended that the rebound box can be readily
assembled and disassembled into a flat pack state which allows it
to be readily stored and transported. FIG. 6 depicts one example of
how the sides may be assembled through a jointing mechanism.
[0115] A first panel 602 has an array of teeth 604 at one
longitudinal edge 606 which interlock in an interleaved manner,
with complementary array of teeth 608 at edge 610 of another panel
612 in the manner of tennon joints. The other edges of its panels
602 and 612 may also have tennon joints, or may be joined to other
panels 614 and 616, shown schematically, in some other way (eg
screws, or hinges). Screws/bolts/other fasteners may be used in
conjunction with the tennon joints.
[0116] The dimensions of the rebound box are unlimited. The rebound
box can be both a rectangular box shape or a square box shape or
part rectangular shape or part box shape. The sides and other parts
used in the rebound box may be of differing materials. The rebound
box may be of metal, wood or plastic construction or a combination
of a number of material types. Typically, the materials used would
be inherently weather resistant (for example a tough plastic
material) or the materials would be treated with a weather
protecting finish (for example a paint with weather resistant
properties). Typically, a rebound box would have a length range of
between 50 cm and 200 cm with a height of around 40 cm to 100 cm
(possibly the range height=30 cm or 50 cm to 150 cm, say 50 cm, 70
cm, 90 cm, 100 cm, 110 cm, 120 cm, or 140 cm; and length=100 cm or
90 cm or 200 cm or 125 cm, or 150 cm, or 175 cm, or thereabouts.
These dimensions can vary. An overall weight of approximately 30 kg
would be typical (perhaps in range between about 10 kg and about 50
kg, with 20 kg, 25 kg, 30 kg, 35 kg being more typical). In many
embodiments a single average man should be able to transport the
box and it should be able to fit into the back of a car, for
example with the rear seats folded down.
[0117] FIG. 7 shows one example of the design of rebound box where
there is a frame structure to which the sides of rebound box can be
fixed. The sides may be held to the frame structure with screws or
other types of fixing facilities such as clips or bolts. The frame
structure comprises a peripheral box frame. This may be supplied as
two rectangular/polygon side frames and a number of connecting
struts (eg 4 struts) to connect the pre-assembled side frames. This
can help to flat pack it. There is space inside the frame
structure/box which may be used to hold things (eg corner flags,
training bibs, balls--things that may be used in soccer
training).
[0118] FIG. 8 depicts a cross section of one example of the
construction of the rebound box where the sides of the rebound box
801, 802, 803 & 804 are fixed/held to the frame 805, 806, 807
& 808.
[0119] The frame 805, 806, 807, 808 comprises an extended metal
(e.g. steel, aluminum) profile provided with recessed channels 810,
best seen in FIG. 8A. The channels 810 have a parallel, a piped
truncated arrow cross section, with rebate portions 812 and an
entrance portion 814.
[0120] FIG. 8B shows a connector piece 820 having a complementary
truncated arrow shaped cross-section with projecting portions 822
which are received in rebates 812, in use. The connector piece 820
also has a boss portion 824 which extends through entrance portion
814 in use, and which is internally screw threaded, referenced 826,
to receive a screw 828. Screw 828 fastens a panel 801, 802, 803,
804 to the connector piece 820 and hence to the frame.
[0121] The frames 805, 806, 807, 808 may have a profiled cross
section shown in FIG. 8A for their entire length, or just at their
ends only, or at spaced positions along their length. Similarly,
the entire edge of the panels could have a complementary
inter-engaging cross section as shown in FIG. 8B, or only at spaced
regions along their length which in use engage with complementary
formations in the frame, for example at their ends/at the
longitudinal ends of their edges and/or in between. It will be
appreciated that the male formations (e.g. connector pieces 820)
are slid into the profiled channels 810.
[0122] FIG. 9 depicts a cross section of a further example of the
construction of the rebound box where the sides of the rebound box
901, 902, 903 & 904 are fixed/held to the frame 905, 906, 907
& 908.
[0123] FIG. 10 depicts how two rebound boxes may be used. The
arrows pointing towards the rebound boxes depict an example of the
path taken by a ball when projected toward the rebound box. The
arrows pointing away from the rebound box depict an example of the
path taken as the ball rebounds from the rebound boxes. The
projection of the ball towards the rebound box is typically
achieved by a person kicking the ball. The path taken by the ball
rebounding from the rebound boxes will be affected by the surface
of the rebound box to which the ball is being projected.
[0124] For example the curved or irregular face on the rebound box
will cause the ball to rebound differently to the flat face on the
rebound box.
[0125] FIG. 11 depicts one example of how three rebound boxes may
be used. The dual pointed arrows overlayed with a ball pointing
towards the rebound boxes depict an example of the path taken by a
ball when projected towards each of the rebound boxes. In this
example the Player 1101 is projecting the ball (typically as a kick
at the ball) towards the rebound boxes in turn or possible in a
random sequence. On the ball rebounding back the Player 1101 then
projects the ball at the same or one of the other rebound
boxes.
[0126] FIG. 12 depicts a further example of how three rebound boxes
may be used. The dual pointed arrows overlayed with a ball pointing
towards the rebound boxes depict an example of the path taken by a
ball when projected towards each of the rebound boxes. In this
example the Player 1201 is projecting the ball (typically as a kick
at the ball) towards the rebound boxes in turn or possible in a
random sequence. On the ball rebounding back the Player 1201 then
projects the ball at the same or one of the other rebound
boxes.
[0127] FIG. 13 depicts a further example of how three rebound boxes
may be used. The dual pointed arrows overlayed with a ball pointing
towards the rebound boxes depict an example of the path taken by a
ball when projected towards each of the rebound boxes. In this
example there are 4 players labelled P1, P2, P3 and P4. In this
example in addition to players P1, P2 and P3 having the option to
project the ball towards the rebound boxes there is also the option
to project the ball towards player P4. Typically, the drill in FIG.
13 would be conducted with 3 footballs in play.
[0128] FIG. 14 is an overview of a football pitch area where the
rebound boxes are used in a drill where Player P1 and Player P2
project the ball toward the rebound box and then attempt to project
the ball towards the goal after it has rebounded from the rebound
box. The single pointed arrows depict an example of the path taken
by the ball during this drill.
[0129] FIG. 15 is an overview of a football pitch area where the
rebound boxes are used in a drill where Player P1 projects the ball
toward the rebound box and then attempts to project the ball toward
a further rebound box. In this example drill there are 4 rebound
boxes where Player P1 having projected the ball toward the rebound
box closest to the goal then attempts to project the ball toward
the goal. The arrows indicate a typical path that the ball may
follow during this drill.
[0130] FIG. 16 depicts how the rebound boxes may be fastened to
position on top of each other or fastened to each other so that one
(or more) sits on top of each other thereby increasing the size and
height of the rebound area. The arrows depict a typical path that
the ball may follow when projected toward the rebound boxes.
Although FIG. 16 has two boxes shown, one could stack 2, 3, or 4 or
more. Also envisaged is placing them end to end, possibly fastened,
to form a wall.
[0131] FIG. 17 depicts one example of the construction of the
rebound box. Side panels of the rebound box 1705 and 1706 have
holes in each corner of the panels. The panels are then held in a
firm position in relation to each other by the use of bolts screwed
into corner blocks 1701, 1702, 1703 and 1704. The two other panels
not shown in FIG. 17 would be held in position using the same type
of corner block fixing. Additionally, end panels could be fixed by
the same means.
[0132] FIG. 18 shows one corner of the example rebound box
construction depicted in FIG. 17. Side panels 2001 and 2002 are
held in position by bolts 2003 and 2004 which are screwed into
tenon nuts 2005 and 2006. Tenon nuts are slid into position along
channels within the corner block 2007.
[0133] FIG. 19 depicts an overhead view of the path of a ball where
the ball is projected towards one example construction of the
rebound box 1901 and the ball is deflected off one of the surfaces
of the rebound box. An example of how this particular example of a
rebound box may be used is where a person practising their bowling
at cricket bowls the ball towards the rebound box and the deflected
ball is caught by a person who is practising their catching
situated behind and to the side of the rebound box. As with the
general design principle of the rebound box the surface of the
rebound box in this particular example could be flat or one of a
number of surface shapes which produce slightly different
variations in the path taken by the ball on being deflected by the
rebound box surface. In this particular example in the use of the
rebound box it is standing on end.
[0134] It will be seen that the ball, or projectile, can rebound
back in the general direction from which it came, or can be
deflected, but still travel forwards. "Rebound" is not meant
necessarily to limit things to the ball returning to towards the
player, but it can often mean that.
[0135] FIG. 20 depicts an example use of the rebound box 2003 in
the context of cricket. FIG. 20 is an overhead view of a cricket
playing area. Players P1, P2 and P3 are positioned behind and to
the side of the cricket stumps 2001. Player P4 bowls the ball
towards the stumps 2001 in front of which the rebound box 2003 is
positioned. The position of the rebound box 2003 is in the area
where a batsmen would typically attempt to strike a ball bowled
towards wickets 2001. The bowled ball is deflected by the rebound
box towards players P1, P2 and P3 who practice catching and
fielding the ball. The height and width of the rebound box is
variable but typically would be of a height and width which would
present an area consistent with the area within which a batsman
would typically strike a bowled cricket ball. The benefit afforded
by the rebound box in this particular example is that bowlers can
practice bowling the ball at particular areas in the direction of
the wicket. Additionally, fielders can practice the catching of the
ball where a batsman may intentionally or not intentionally hit the
ball. The lines with arrows and a ball shaped overlayed depict an
example path taken by the ball when projected towards and deflected
by the rebound box 2003.
[0136] In some embodiments the weight of the rebound box itself
will be enough (i.e. no internal ballast required), for example, if
the panels and/or the frame is made of metal.
[0137] Basketball is another sport where a portable rebound sports
training device find a use.
[0138] Throw-ins can be practiced in football using the rebound box
to bounce the ball back/deflect it on to another player.
[0139] FIG. 21 depicts one example of the construction of the
rebound box showing alternative/additional features. Side panels of
the rebound box 2105 and 2106 have holes in each corner of the
panels and/or at one or multiple points along the length of the
panels. The panels are then held in a firm position in relation to
each other by the use of bolts inserted through the holes in the
panels and screwed into blocks 2101, 2102, 2103, 2104 and 2107. The
two other panels not shown in FIG. 21 would be held in position
using the same type of block fixing at points along the panel
length. Each block assists in securing two adjacent panels
typically and approximately at right angles to each other.
Additionally, end panels could be fixed by the same means.
[0140] FIG. 22 depicts a plan view of a panel with 2206 indicating
example locations where holes can be made in the panel through
which bolts can be inserted and screwed to blocks.
[0141] FIG. 23 depicts the cross sectional end view of 3 rebound
boxes 2301, 2302 and 2303. FIG. 23 shows how the rebound boxes can
be rotated to sit on different panel sides thereby allowing
differing side panels to be offered in the vertical and horizontal
planes. The purpose of this is to demonstrate how a single rebound
box can support a number of differing panel sides which would
provide differing rebound or deflection effects to a ball projected
towards each of the panel sides.
[0142] FIG. 24 depicts the cross sectional end view of 3 rebound
boxes 2401, 2402 and 2403 where each of the rebound boxes comprise
3 panels with the panels of each rebound box being joined by
triangular jointing blocks. FIG. 24 shows how the rebound boxes can
be rotated to sit on different panel sides thereby allowing
differing side panels to be offered in the upright planes. The
purpose of this is to demonstrate how a single rebound box can
support a number of differing panel sides which would provide
differing rebound or deflection effects to a ball projected towards
each of the panel sides.
[0143] FIG. 25 shows some examples of the impact points a ball may
have when balls are projected towards the panels of a 4 paneled
rebound box.
[0144] It will be seen that the panels referenced 2501 in FIG. 25
have a number of points or ridges 2502 separated by troughs 2503.
The panels are, in this example, made of sheet steel, but they
could be made of plastic, or suitable material. The points 2502 are
spread apart by a distance 2504 that is generally the same between
adjacent points. The spacing 2504 is such that a normal adult sized
football engages/contacts one, or at most two, points (in this
example) when it bounces off (impacts with) the panel. The points
act as rigid fingers which poke into the ball, deflecting the
surface of the ball materials. This helps the ball to spring away
from the "fingers" (ridges) of the points 2502--assisting the
bounce/rebound characteristics of the panel box.
[0145] It will be appreciated that if there are too many
fingers/points 2502 too close together, the effect will get closer
and closer to using a flat rebound surface.
[0146] In other embodiments the points 2502 may be so far apart
that the ball can only encounter one at a time. In another
embodiment three points can be encountered at a time--but two
points is what is preferred. This means a spacing of about 3 cm, or
4 cm, or 5 cm, or 6 cm, or 7 cm, or 8 cm, in some embodiments.
[0147] Also of note is the arrangement shown in FIGS. 24 and
26--three sided boxes. A triangular box is envisaged. It still has
a space inside and can still be rolled over to present different
surfaces. Equilateral triangles, isosceles triangles, scalene,
obtuse or acute angled triangles are envisaged--any sort of
triangle.
[0148] The panels may, of course, be removable and replaceable.
[0149] The points may be elongated ridges or corrugations. They may
be discrete islands of point/projections, not elongate ridges
necessarily. For example they may be like the surface of a
pineapple, or a regular pattern, preferably pointed, bosses, for
example cone-shaped or pyramid-shaped.
[0150] The points may be formed at the apex of generally V-shaped
ridges, with generally flat sides to the "V".
[0151] It will be appreciated that the "points" idea, and the
three-sided box idea, can be used in conjunction with any other
features, or combination of features, described herein.
[0152] FIG. 26 shows some examples of the impact points a ball may
have when balls are projected towards the panels of a 3 paneled
rebound box. FIG. 27 depicts the cross sectional overhead view of 3
rebound boxes 2701, 2702 and 2703 standing vertically on end. FIG.
27 shows how the rebound boxes can be stood on end thereby allowing
differing side panels surfaces to be offered in the vertical
planes.
[0153] FIG. 28 is an angled overhead view of one example of
construction of a rebound box where two panels 2801 and 2802 are
joined by three connector pieces 2803 where the edges of the panels
are in closest proximity. The panels are held firm with connection
rods 2804 fixed between fixed connector pieces 2805. The connection
rods may for example be made of metal or toughened plastic and be
held to the connector pieces 2805 with screw nuts.
[0154] FIG. 29 is a cross sectional view of the two panel rebound
box depicted in FIG. 28 with panels 2903 and 2904. FIG. 29 shows
how the connection rod 2902 is held by connection pieces 2905.
Connector rod 2902 has ends which are bent at right angles which
allows them to be inserted through central bore holes in connector
pieces 2905. Connector piece 2901 is the same design as connector
pieces 2905. 2901 shows the central bore hole through which the
connection rod ends 2902 are inserted. The ends of the connection
rod 2902 have screw threads, which allow a bolt to be screwed onto
the connection rod end thereby holding the connection rod firmly
place with the connection pieces 2905 at each end.
[0155] FIG. 30 shows how the connection rods in FIG. 28 and FIG. 29
are connected to the connector pieces. A connection rod before
being deployed may look like 3001. Each end is at right angles to
the main body of the rod and typically would have screw thread on
each end. In deploying the connection rod each end of connection
rod 3004 is inserted through central bore holes in connector pieces
3007 and 3008. To firmly hold the connection rod 3004 in place,
nuts 3009 are screwed onto the ends of the connection rods.
[0156] FIG. 31 depicts one example of the construction of the
rebound box. Two panels of the rebound box 3105 and 3106 have holes
in each corner of the panels and/or at one or multiple points along
the length of the panels. The panels are then held in a firm
position in relation to each other by the use of bolts inserted
through the holes in the panels and screwed into blocks 3101, 3102,
3103, 3104 and 3107. A connection rod 3105 is secured between
connector pieces 3101 3103.
[0157] FIG. 32 depicts one example of the construction of the
rebound box. Two panels of the rebound box 3205 and 3206 have holes
in each corner of the panels and/or at one or multiple points along
the length of the panels. The panels are then held in a firm
position in relation to each other by the use of bolts inserted
through the holes in the panels and screwed into blocks 3201, 3202,
3203, 3204 and 3207. 3208 is a connection rod between connector
pieces 3201 and 3203. FIG. 32 additionally depicts how feet may be
affixed to the panels of the rebound box. The feet may be affixed
to one or all of the panels. There may be one or a number of feet.
The positioning and height of the feet may vary thereby changing
the angle of how the rebound box sits. This therefore affects the
way a ball may rebound or deflect from the surfaces of the rebound
box. The feet may be made of wood, metal, plastic or rubber. The
feet may be affixed by glue or bolted or screwed or clipped on to
the panels.
[0158] FIG. 33 depicts the cross sectional end view of three
example rebound boxes 3301, 3302 and 3303. FIG. 33 shows how the
rebound boxes can be rotated to sit on different sides thereby
allowing different panels to be offered in the vertical and
horizontal and other planes. The purpose of this is to demonstrate
how a single rebound box can support a number of differing panel
sides which would provide differing rebound or deflection effects
to a ball projected towards each of the panel sides.
[0159] FIG. 34 depicts one example of a construction where the
rebound panel 3401 is held in place by two side panels 3402 and
3403 and a further cross panel 3404 between side panels 3402 and
3403. All panels being attached by jointing blocks or through the
use of nuts and bolts 3404.
[0160] Front panel (the rebound panel) 3401 has a zig-zag
corrugated face, which provides projections 3405 having pointed
tips 3406. The tips are spaced apart by about 4 cm so that when a
normal full-size Association football hits the panel at least one,
but usually no more than two, tips dig into the ball and "spring"
it away from the panel by deflecting the surface of the ball
locally inwards. This punches the ball back. The tips 3406 are
pointed and sharp compared to a part-circular surface, such as a
dome or cylinder so as to be spiky in nature.
[0161] Side panels 3402 and 3405 are alike and each has an upper
flange 3407 and a lower flange 3408. They are made from steel, as
is the front panel. The flanges 3407 and 3408 are bolted via bolts
3404 to upper and lower flanges 3409, 3410 on the front panel.
[0162] The flanges 3407 and 3408 have through holes 3411 provided
to receive, removably, rubber/plastic/resilient material feet 3412
which are shown in the Figure in the lower flange 3408, with just
the holes 3411 in the upper flange 3407. When the device is to be
turned over (see the discussion of FIG. 35 below) the feet 3412 can
be taken off the flange 3408 and fitted to the other flange 3407,
so that they are still serving as feet. No tools may be needed to
do this. Or two sets of feet may be provided--one being
redundant--at any particular orientation of the device. Or no feet
may be provided, and the holes 3411 may be used to stake the
rebound box down. (e.g. when it is used on grass).
[0163] The flanges serve as carrying handles to enable a man to
lift and carry/at least slide and move the device.
[0164] A bracing bar 3413 is provided extending between the side
panels, the bar being removable.
[0165] The device can be disassembled and the two sides and the
front panel (and optionally the bar) laid flat, for example in a
packaging box for original retail or for transport. Or they could
be put in the back of a car.
[0166] The sides 3402 and 3403 are trapezium-shaped to present the
rebound panel 3401 at different angles to the ground when the
device is turned upside down (see the discussion of FIG. 35
below).
[0167] FIG. 35 depicts one example of a construction where the
rebound unit shown in FIG. 34 has been turned through 180 degrees.
By doing this the angle of rebound panel 3501 is presented at a
different angle therefore causing a ball to rebound off at a
different angle from the face compared with the rebound from the
panel face in FIG. 34. Panel 3501 is held in place by two side
panels 3502 and 3503 and a further cross panel 3504 between side
panels 3502 and 3503. All panels being attached by jointing blocks
or through the use of nuts and bolts.
[0168] FIG. 36 depicts one example construction where rebound
panels 3601 and 3602 are held in place by two side panels. FIG. 36
is a cross sectional "side on" view showing one side panel 3603 of
the two side panels. This example of construction allows two
rebound panels to be used simultaneously. The side panels can be
constructed with different angled edges thereby allowing the
rebound panels to be held at different angles.
[0169] FIG. 37 depicts one example construction where rebound
panels comprise a number of rods. Two side panels 3703 and 3704 are
held in place by a number of rods 3701 and 3702 fixed between the
two side panels 3703 and 3704. In this example of the construction
of the rebound box the rods act as rebound panels for both the
front and back of the rebound box. This example of construction
allows both the front and back of the rebound box to be used
simultaneously. The rods can be made of metal, wood or a plastic
based material or alternatively of any material of sufficient
robustness.
[0170] FIG. 38 depicts the cross sectional view of one example
construction of the rebound box where the side panels of the
rebound box have a number of rods attached between both side/end
panels. The side/end panel 3801 shows one example of how the rods
may be arranged when fixed to the side/end panels. The rods being
fixed to the side/end panels by bolts/screws screwed into a
threaded channel in the ends of the rods. This example of
construction allows two sides of the rebound box to be used
simultaneously. In this example the rods are arranged in a straight
line for one side of the rebound box and in a non linear
arrangement for the other side of the rebound box.
[0171] FIG. 39 is an indicative, cross sectional representation of
one snapshot moment of impact of a ball 3901 striking a rebound
panel where the rebound panel 3902 comprises a number of ridges.
The ridges of the rebound panel act as fingers poking into the ball
causing the ball to be "toe poked" or "punched" away in the rebound
from the surface. This arrangement of ridges causes forces to be
applied in a concentrated manner on the ball thereby causing the
ball to rebound with greater speed. The spacing of the ridges is
important in that if the ridge cusps are too far apart the ball can
become squeezed between adjacent ridges (and does not rebound with
a "punched" effect) and obviously if the ridges are too close they
are indistinguishable from a flat surface. For a size 5 soccer ball
used against a rebound panel an appropriate spacing between the
ridge cusps is about 4 cm. The distance between the ridge cusps can
vary from 1 cm to 8 cm.
[0172] FIG. 40 is an indicative, cross sectional representation of
one snapshot moment of impact of a ball 4001 striking a rebound
panel where the rebound panel 4002 comprises a number of rods. The
rods of the rebound panel act as rounded fingers poking into the
ball causing the ball to be "toe poked" or "punched" away in the
rebound from the surface. This arrangement of rods causes forces to
be applied in a concentrated manner on the ball thereby causing the
ball to rebound with greater speed. The spacing of the rods is
important in that if the rods are too far apart the ball can become
squeezed between adjacent rods (and does not rebound with a
"punched" effect) and obviously if the ridges are too close they
are indistinguishable from a flat surface. For a size 5 soccer ball
used against a rebound panel an appropriate spacing between the
ridge cusps is about 4 cm. The distance between the ridge cusps can
vary from 1 cm to 8 cm.
[0173] FIG. 41 shows a rebound box where rebound packs 4101 and
4104 are held in place by two side panels. FIG. 41 is a
cross-sectional side view showing one side panel 4104 for the pair
of side panels. In this embodiment, there is a "finger", or
projection, 4103 cut into the profile of the sheet steel (n this
embodiment) of the side panels. The finger 4103 is a locating and
supporting formation for a spring, 4201 (shown in FIG. 42). The
spring 4201 helps increase the spring rebound force applied to a
football by the rebound panels. The springs 4201 are disposed
generally in the middle of the panels 4101, 4104. The compression
springs shown in FIG. 42 are placed over the fingers 4103 prior to
the assembly of the rebound panels 4101 and 4104 to the side panels
4104. The rebound panels and side panels are connected together by
releasable fastenings, such as nuts and bolts, shown as reference
number 4102.
[0174] In many embodiments the sheet material (e.g. steel sheet) of
the rebound panels has relatively sharp projections (for example
ridges/points, extending in the same general direction. They are
spaced apart by a distance such that a normal adults size 4 or 5
Association football always hits at least one projection, but not
at the same time more than two projections, or at most more than
three projections (for some embodiments). This maintains a high
degree of "poke" into the ball.
[0175] The projections are sharp, compared with domes, or
hemispherical shapes or part-circular projections.
[0176] The rebound panel/at least one rebound panel, extends
generally upright/upwards in use (usually). Many embodiments of
rebound boxes are such that they can be carried/moved by an average
man whilst still assembled. They might be about 20 kg, or 30 kg or
so (.+-.5 or 10 kg), and might be about 1.5 m long and about 0.5 m
high (.+-.20-50%).
* * * * *