U.S. patent application number 13/951179 was filed with the patent office on 2014-01-30 for electronic component enclosure for an inflated object.
This patent application is currently assigned to InfoMotion Sports Technologies, Inc.. Invention is credited to Michael J. Crowley, Kevin King, Michael Maziarz.
Application Number | 20140031151 13/951179 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45771121 |
Filed Date | 2014-01-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140031151 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Crowley; Michael J. ; et
al. |
January 30, 2014 |
ELECTRONIC COMPONENT ENCLOSURE FOR AN INFLATED OBJECT
Abstract
This document provides methods and materials for securely
retaining electronic components within an inflatable object. For
example, basketballs having a boot structure for securely retaining
one or more electronic components (e.g., a sensor and/or a battery)
within the basketball are provided.
Inventors: |
Crowley; Michael J.;
(Attleboro, MA) ; Maziarz; Michael; (Wilbraham,
MA) ; King; Kevin; (Columbus, OH) |
Assignee: |
InfoMotion Sports Technologies,
Inc.
Attleboro
MA
|
Family ID: |
45771121 |
Appl. No.: |
13/951179 |
Filed: |
July 25, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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12876790 |
Sep 7, 2010 |
8517870 |
|
|
13951179 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
473/570 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 41/00 20130101;
A63B 2243/0025 20130101; A63B 2243/007 20130101; A63B 2220/833
20130101; A63B 41/04 20130101; A63B 2220/803 20130101; A63B 45/00
20130101; A63B 41/02 20130101; A63B 2243/0037 20130101; A63B 41/085
20130101; A63B 41/10 20130101; A63B 2243/0095 20130101; A63B 43/00
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/570 |
International
Class: |
A63B 43/00 20060101
A63B043/00 |
Claims
1-29. (canceled)
30. A standard full-size or mid-size basketball comprising: (a) an
inner compartment to be inflated with air, (b) an inflation valve
for allowing inflation of said inner compartment with air, (c) a
pocket compartment comprising an extending lip portion and a main
body portion and defining an inner cavity configured to house a
battery and motion sensors selected from the group consisting of
accelerometers, angular rate gyros, and magnetometers, wherein said
pocket compartment is positioned within said basketball off-set
from the center of said basketball, wherein an inner surface of
said pocket compartment comprises a groove located beneath said
extending lip portion and configured to receive a flared structure
of a removable capping component, wherein air inflated into said
inner compartment is isolated from said inner cavity of said pocket
compartment, (d) said battery located within said inner cavity, (e)
said motion sensors located within said inner cavity, and (f) said
removable capping structure located within said inner cavity with
said flared structure mated with said groove.
31. The basketball of claim 30, wherein said basketball is a
standard full-size basketball.
32. The basketball of claim 30, wherein said basketball is a
standard mid-size basketball.
33. The basketball of claim 30, wherein said battery is
removable.
34. The basketball of claim 30, wherein said motion sensors are
removable.
35. The basketball of claim 30, wherein said battery and said
motion sensors are removable.
36. The basketball of claim 30, wherein a top surface of said
removable capping component is flush with an outer surface of said
basketball when said flared structure is mated with said
groove.
37. The basketball of claim 30, wherein said basketball comprises a
circuit board comprising said motion sensors.
38. The basketball of claim 30, wherein said inner cavity is open
to external air pressure without compromising the pressure of the
inner compartment when said removable capping component is removed
from said basketball.
39. The basketball of claim 30, wherein said pocket compartment is
located within said basketball opposite from said inflation
valve.
40. The basketball of claim 30, wherein said pocket compartment is
located within said basketball essentially or exactly 180 degrees
from said inflation valve.
41. The basketball of claim 30, wherein the height of said pocket
compartment is from 25 mm to 60 mm in length.
42. The basketball of claim 30, wherein said removable capping
component has a height of 5 mm to 20 mm.
43. The basketball of claim 30, wherein said extending lip portion
has a diameter between 30 mm and 200 mm.
44. The basketball of claim 30, wherein an outer surface of said
pocket compartment is cylindrical.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This document relates to an enclosure for securely retaining
electronic components.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The sport of basketball has increased in popularity
immensely since its inception in the late 1800s. Basketball is
played the world over by players at varying degrees of skill level,
from professionals, to college and high school athletes, to
recreational players of all ages. Basketball incorporates various
maneuvers and skills that require varying degrees of muscle control
and hand-eye coordination. A variety of techniques are used by
coaches and trainers in order to improve muscle control and
hand-eye coordination of players in order to improve the ball
handling and shooting skills of the players.
SUMMARY
[0003] This document provides methods and materials for securely
retaining electronic components within an inflatable object. For
example, this document provides basketballs having a boot structure
for securely retaining one or more electronic components (e.g., a
sensor and/or battery) within the basketball.
[0004] In general, one aspect of this document features an
inflatable object comprising, or consisting essentially of, (a) an
inner compartment to be inflated with air, and (b) a pocket
compartment defining an inner cavity configured to house an
electronic component, wherein air inflated into the inner
compartment is isolated from the inner cavity of the pocket
compartment. The inner cavity can be open to external air. At least
a portion of the pocket compartment can be flexible such that
inflation of the inner compartment with air causes the portion of
the pocket compartment to flex. At least a portion of the pocket
compartment can be flexible such that inflation of the inner
compartment with air causes the portion of the pocket compartment
to flex, and wherein, when the inner cavity contains the electronic
component, the flexed portion of the pocket compartment can
increase a compression force against the electronic component,
thereby reducing the possibility that the electronic component
moves within the inner cavity relative to the pocket compartment.
The pocket compartment can be flexible. Inflation of the inner
compartment with air can cause the flexible pocket compartment to
compress against the electronic component when the inner cavity
contains the electronic component. Inflation of the inner
compartment with air can cause the flexible pocket compartment to
stiffen, thereby reducing vibrational noise. The inflatable object
can be a basketball, soccer ball, volleyball, or football. The
pocket compartment can comprise a body portion having flexible
walls configured to exert an inward pressure directly on the
electrical component, when the inner compartment is inflated and
when the electrical component is present within the inner cavity.
The pocket compartment can comprise a body portion having flexible
walls configured to exert an inward pressure indirectly on the
electrical component, when the inner compartment is inflated and
when the electrical component is present within the inner cavity.
The pocket compartment can comprise a removable cap. The removable
cap can define a hole. The removable cap can define a hole to
provide the inner cavity with an opening to external air. The
electronic component can be a circuit board comprising at least one
motion sensor. The inflatable object can comprise a battery and a
motion sensor located within the inner cavity. The inner cavity can
be open to external air pressure without compromising the pressure
of the inner compartment.
[0005] In another aspect, this document features an inflatable
basketball comprising, or consisting essentially of, (a) an inner
compartment to be inflated with air, and (b) a pocket compartment
defining an inner cavity configured to house an electronic
component, wherein air inflated into the inner compartment is
isolated from the inner cavity of the pocket compartment, and
wherein at least a portion of the pocket compartment is flexible
such that inflation of the inner compartment with air causes the
portion of the pocket compartment to flex. Inflation of the inner
compartment with air can cause the portion of the pocket
compartment to compress against the electronic component when the
inner cavity contains the electronic component. Inflation of the
inner compartment with air can cause the portion of the pocket
compartment to stiffen, thereby reducing vibrational noise.
[0006] In another aspect, this document features an inflatable
object comprising, or consisting essentially of, (a) an inner
bladder configured to be inflated with air, (b) an outer layer
configured to form at least a portion of the outer surface of the
inflatable object, and (c) a housing comprising an inner
compartment configured to house an electronic component, wherein
air inflated into the inner bladder is isolated from the inner
compartment of the housing. The housing can comprise an outer wall,
wherein the outer wall can be integral with at least a portion of
the inner bladder. Inflation of the inner bladder with air can
cause the housing to compress against the electronic component when
the inner compartment contains the electronic component. Inflation
of the inner compartment with air can cause the housing to stiffen,
thereby reducing vibrational noise. At least a portion of the
housing can be flexible, wherein inflation of the inner bladder
with the air can increase the pressure applied by the inner bladder
against the housing, and wherein the increased pressure applied
against the housing can increase the pressure applied against the
electronic component when the electronic component is present
within the inner compartment.
[0007] In another aspect, this document features an inflatable
basketball comprising, or consisting essentially of, (a) an inner
bladder configured to be inflated with air, (b) an outer layer
configured to form at least a portion of the outer surface of the
basketball, (c) a housing comprising an inner compartment
configured to house a removable motion sensor and a removable
battery, wherein air inflated into the inner bladder is isolated
from the inner compartment of the housing, and (d) a removable cap
configured to engage the housing, wherein the removable cap defines
an opening such that air is capable of flowing from the inner
compartment to the external environment outside of the inflatable
basketball, and wherein the opening is configured to provide access
of a battery charging input to the removable battery without
removing the cap. The outer wall can be integral with at least a
portion of the inner bladder. Inflation of the inner bladder with
air can cause the housing to compress against the electronic
component when the inner compartment contains the electronic
component. Inflation of the inner compartment with air can cause
the housing to stiffen, thereby reducing vibrational noise. At
least a portion of the housing can be flexible, wherein inflation
of the inner bladder with the air can increase the pressure applied
by the inner bladder against the housing, and wherein the increased
pressure applied against the housing can increase the pressure
applied against the removable motion sensor when the removable
motion sensor is present within the inner compartment.
[0008] These and other embodiments described herein may provide one
or more of the following benefits. Electronic components can be
securely retained within an inflated object. The accuracy of motion
data recorded by sensors retained within an enclosure can be
improved by reducing vibrational noise detected by the sensors. A
sensor enclosure can be securely affixed to an inflated object.
Pressure from an inner bladder of an inflated object can be
imparted upon an enclosure to more securely retain electronic
components retained within the enclosure.
[0009] In some cases, a compressible enclosure provided herein can
be configured to maximize the ratio of stiffness to weight, thereby
allowing the enclosure to be light weight while providing a
required level of stiffness to secure one or more sensors and
attenuate possible vibrations generated during typical use (e.g.,
typical basketball use). The electronics can be easily installed
into the enclosure when the inflatable object (e.g., basketball) is
deflated, and then the addition of air pressure can secure the
electronics in place. In some cases, the installation of the
electronics does not impact the integrity of the inflatable's seal.
The compressibility of the enclosure can be designed so that the
enclosure stiffness increases with the addition of air pressure. In
some cases, the methods and materials provided herein can provide
for quick sensor insertion, increased sensor stability inside the
inflatable object, reduced extraneous vibrational noise that can
impact measurements, and the ability to remove the sensor in the
future.
[0010] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains.
Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those
described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the
present invention, suitable methods and materials are described
below. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other
references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their
entirety. In case of conflict, the present specification, including
definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and
examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.
[0011] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are
set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below.
Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be
apparent from the description and drawings, and from the
claims.
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is a cross sectional view of an enclosure or a boot
structure for securely retaining electronic components with respect
to an inflated object.
[0013] FIG. 2 is a side view of the enclosure of FIG. 1.
[0014] FIG. 3 is a top view of the enclosure of FIG. 1 with a cap
portion removed.
[0015] FIG. 4 is a semi-transparent perspective view of the
enclosure of FIG. 1.
[0016] FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of an inflatable object
having an enclosure or a boot structure for securely retaining
electronic components.
[0017] FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of an enclosure or a boot
structure for securely retaining electronic components with respect
to an inflated object.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of an inflatable object
having an enclosure or a boot structure for securely retaining
electronic components.
[0019] FIG. 8 is a flow chart of an example method of use for an
enclosure for securely retaining electronic components.
[0020] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like
elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] This document provides methods and materials for securely
retaining electronic components within an inflatable object. For
example, this document provides inflatable objects (e.g.,
inflatable balls such as basketballs, soccer balls, volleyballs,
and footballs) having a boot structure or enclosure for securely
retaining one or more electronic components (e.g., a sensor and/or
battery) within the inflatable object. As described herein, the
boot structure or enclosure can be configured such that an
electronic component positioned within the boot structure or
enclosure is not within the inner bladder of the inflatable object.
For example, an inflatable object such as a basketball can be
designed to have a boot structure or enclosure that is configured
such that an electronic component positioned within the boot
structure or enclosure is within the interior of the basketball,
but not within the inner bladder of the basketball. In such cases,
the inner bladder is the compartment that is inflated with air. For
example, the inner bladder of an inflatable object such as a
basketball can receive from about 7 pounds per square inch (psi) to
about 9 psi of air pressure. Since the air pressure within the
inner bladder of the inflatable object can be between about 7 and
about 9 psi and the electronic components positioned within the
boot structure or enclosure can be located outside of the inner
bladder of a basketball, the air pressure to which the electronic
components are exposed can be essentially atmospheric air pressure.
In some cases, the electronic components can be open to or in
contact with outside air, as opposed to the pressurized air within
an inner bladder of an inflatable object.
[0022] As an inner bladder of an inflatable object is inflated with
increasing air pressure, one or more wall components of the boot
structure or enclosure can be deformed or compressed such that
those one or more wall components directly press against one or
more electronic components within the boot structure or enclosure,
thereby securely retaining or positioning the electronic
components. In some cases, the one or more wall components can
press against one or more other structures (e.g., a foam insert)
that directly presses against the one or more electronic components
within the boot structure or enclosure, thereby securely retaining
or positioning the electronic components. In some cases, deformable
wall components can compress leading to an increased stiffness of
the overall system (e.g., boot, electronics, and inner
bladder).
[0023] Referring to FIG. 1, a sensor enclosure 100 can be used to
retain or position various electronic components. In some cases,
sensor enclosure 100 can be integral with an inner bladder of an
inflatable object, integral with the outer skin of an inflatable
object, or can be configured to securely affix to an inflatable
object. Examples of inflatable objects that can be used in
conjunction with sensor enclosure 100 include, without limitation,
basketballs, volleyballs, footballs, soccer balls, and inflatable
punching bags. For example, sensor enclosure 100 can be integrated
into or attached to a standard full-size basketball having an
inflated circumference of about 29.5 inches. As another example,
sensor enclosure 100 can be integrated into or attached to a
standard mid-size basketball having an inflated circumference of
28.5 inches. The electronic components retained or secured in
position by sensor enclosure 100 can include one or more motion
sensors for recording motion data and detecting motions of an
inflated object to which sensor enclosure 100 is a part of. The
motion data collected by the sensors can be used to evaluate
various athletic skills and abilities, such as basketball handling
skills, dribbling skills, and shooting skills, that can be used to
assess the skill level of a player and help to improve that
player's skills and abilities.
[0024] Sensor enclosure 100 can include an extending lip portion
102 attached to a main body portion 104. As can be more clearly
seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, extending lip portion 102 extends around
main body portion 104 to form a circle (e.g., a complete circle).
In some cases, extending lip portion 102 is molded or vulcanized
during manufacture such that it becomes integral with a layer
(e.g., an inner bladder layer, or an outer skin layer) of the
inflatable object. In some implementations, extending lip portion
102 can extend further in some directions than others (e.g., to
form an oval shape). In the example shown in FIGS. 1-4, extending
lip portion 102 and main body portion 104 are constructed together
from a single piece of materiel. In some implementations, extending
lip portion 102 and main body portion 104 are constructed from
separate pieces and affixed to one another. Extending lip portion
102 and main body portion 104 can, for example, be constructed from
rubber, flexible or semi-flexible plastic, leather, or composite
leather (e.g., synthetic leather).
[0025] As will be explained in greater detail below, sensor
enclosure 100 can affix to or be made integral with a basketball or
other inflated object. For example, sensor enclosure 100 can be
designed such that all or a portion of extending lip portion 102
becomes integral with the inner bladder. In some cases, the
thickness of the inner bladder at the region that includes lip
portion 102 can be thicker than the inner bladder at other regions.
For example, extending lip portion 102, when integrated into the
inner bladder, can increase the thickness of the material of the
inner bladder in the region around the sensor enclosure. In some
cases, the inner bladder material can form a flush interface with
the top surface of the sensor enclosure 100 at, e.g., upper
portions 106. When being manufactured, the upper portions 106 can
be placed within an opening in an inner bladder. Once inserted, at
extending lip portion 102 and upper portions 106 can be treated
(e.g., vulcanized) such that the material of extending lip portion
102 and upper portions 106 become integral with the material of the
inner bladder.
[0026] In some implementations, sensor enclosure 100 can affix to
or be made integral with an inflatable object with (or without) the
upper portion 106 of sensor enclosure 100 extending above a surface
of the inflated object and/or extending lip portion 102, which can
form a portion of the outer surface of the inflatable object.
[0027] In some cases, upper portion 106 of sensor enclosure 100
and/or the upper surface of cap 120 can be textured to match the
texture of the outer surface layer of the inflatable object when
upper portion 106 of sensor enclosure 100 and/or the upper surface
of a cap 120 of sensor enclosure 100 are configured to be exposed
to an outer surface. In some cases, a separate layer of textured
material can be placed or affixed to upper portion 106 and/or the
upper surface of cap 120 such that the separate layer of textured
material matches the texture of the outer surface layer of the
inflatable object. Such a separate layer can be designed to have an
opening that can be aligned with the opening of cap 120.
[0028] Sensor enclosure 100 can define an internal cavity 108
disposed within main body portion 104. Internal cavity 108 can
house one or more electronic components, including a battery 110
and one or more circuit boards 112. Battery 110 can supply power to
circuit board 112 and other electronic components housed within
sensor enclosure 100. Battery 110 can, for example, be a primary
battery (e.g., non-rechargable) alkaline, or a rechargeable battery
such as a nickel-metal hydride, lithium ion, lithium polymer, or
zinc oxide battery. Circuit board 112 can include various
electronic components including sensors such as motion sensors
(e.g., accelerometers, angular rate gyros, and magnetometers),
temperature sensors, and pressure sensors. The sensors can be
configured to, for example, record data relating to motions of an
inflated object to which sensor enclosure 100 is attached or a part
of. For example, the sensors can measure angular velocity,
acceleration, linear velocity, and/or deceleration for an inflated
object. As another example, the sensors can measure the number of
times that a basketball is bounced or contacted within a set time
period. As yet another example, the sensors can measure an angle at
which an inflated object contacts a surface (e.g., the floor). As
yet another example, the sensors can measure a spin rate of a
basketball to which sensor enclosure 100 is attached or a part of.
As another example, the sensors can measure the frequency and force
with which a punching bag is punched or otherwise contacted. As
still another example, the sensors can measure the number of times
a soccer ball is contacted over a set time period. The sensors can
also, for example, measure the spin rate of a spiraling football,
the arc of a basketball shot, the spin axis and spin rate of a
basketball shot, or the velocity with which a soccer ball is
kicked.
[0029] Sensor enclosure 100 can include a divider 114 for
separating battery 110 from circuit board 112 and for more securely
holding battery 110 and circuit board 112 in place. Divider 114 can
be made from, for example, rubber, plastic, foam, or another
suitable material. In some implementations, the material selected
for divider 114 can be suitably shock absorbent so as to retain
battery 110 and circuit board 112 in place while absorbing at least
part of the force of an impact when an inflated object to which
sensor enclosure 100 is attached contacts a surface or other
object.
[0030] Referring to FIG. 2, sensor enclosure 100 can include
securing members 115. In some implementations, securing members 115
can be foam, rubber, or another material that is inserted into
internal cavity 108 in order to secure battery 110 and circuit
board 112 in place. In some implementations, securing members 115
can be constructed in one piece as part of main body portion 104.
Like divider 114, the material used to manufacture securing members
115 can be selected so as to be suitably shock absorbent in order
to retain battery 110 and circuit board 112 in place while
absorbing at least part of the force of an impact when an inflated
object to which sensor enclosure 100 is attached contacts a surface
or other object. In some implementations, one or more of the
securing members, in combination with divider 114, can form
compartments within internal cavity 108 for receiving battery 110
and circuit board 112.
[0031] Referring again to FIG. 1, internal cavity 108 can include
additional space 116 for housing additional wiring, electronic
components, or foam packing. For example, additional space 116 can
house wires connecting battery 110 to circuit board 112 as well as
foam packing for securing battery 110 and circuit board 112 in
place within internal cavity 108. In some implementations, the
dimensions of internal cavity 108 are customized to provide a snug
fit for battery 110 and circuit board 112.
[0032] Sensor enclosure 100 further includes an aperture 118
passing through upper portion 106 to internal cavity 108. Aperture
118 can be configured to receive a cap 120. In some cases, cap 120
can be configured to provide a flush or nearly flush surface along
an outer surface of the inflatable object. In some cases, cap 120
can assist in ensuring that the components stored within internal
cavity 108 remain secured in place while separating internal cavity
108 from an external environment of sensor enclosure 100. Cap 120
can be manufactured, for example, from rubber, plastic, foam,
leather, or composite leather. In some cases, cap 120 and internal
cavity 108 can be configured to have mating surfaces such that cap
120 is held in place within at least a portion of internal cavity
108. For example, as shown in the examples, cap 120 can have a
flared bottom portion in order to more securely retain cap 120
within aperture 118. Sensor enclosure 100 can include a groove 121
for receiving the flared bottom portion of cap 120. Groove 121 can
extend in a circle around internal cavity 108. In some cases, the
mating surfaces can be switched such that cap 120 contains a groove
or other appropriate structure and internal cavity 108 contains a
flare or other appropriate structure.
[0033] As can be seen in FIGS. 6 and 7, cap 120 can be configured
to extend above an upper surface of enclosure 100 (e.g., above
upper portion 106). In such cases, cap 120 can provide a flush or
nearly flush surface along an outer surface of the inflatable
object.
[0034] As can be seen in FIGS. 2 and 4, in some implementations,
cap 120 can include an aperture 122 extending there through.
Aperture 122 can allow internal cavity 108 to be open to the
external environment. In such cases, the air pressure within
internal cavity 108 can be essentially the same air pressure as the
external environment. In some implementations, cap 120 can be solid
and not contain an aperture in order to allow for a pressure
differential between internal cavity 108 and the external
environment to be created.
[0035] Referring to FIG. 3, a top view of sensor enclosure 100 is
shown with cap 120 removed to show the arrangement of battery 110,
circuit board 112, divider 114, and securing members 115 within
internal cavity 108. As can be seen, theses components are arranged
within internal cavity 108 to minimize lateral movement of battery
110 and circuit board 112 within sensor enclosure 100.
[0036] Referring again to FIG. 1, sensor enclosure 100 can include
a groove 124 located beneath extending lip portion 102. In some
cases, a sensor enclosure provided herein can lack groove 124. As
can be seen in FIG. 4, groove 124 can extend around main body
portion 104 of extending lip portion 102 to form a circular groove.
Groove 124 can be configured to vibrationally isolate the enclosure
from the outer skin of the inflatable object. When the skin of the
inflatable object vibrates due to an impact event (e.g., a bounce
of a ball against the ground), the skin may resonate. Groove 124
can reduce the transfer of these vibrations to the enclosure,
thereby limiting the sensor from sensing these vibrations which are
not a signature of the bulk motion of the ball and thereby limiting
the ability of the sensor enclosure from absorbing bounce energy
from the ball which may decrease the bounce performance of the
ball.
[0037] In some implementations, sensor enclosure 100 is made
integral with an inner bladder of an inflatable object such that
extending lip portion 102 is made integral with the inner bladder.
In some implementations, an upper surface of extending lip portion
102 can contact an inner surface of an inner bladder of the
inflatable object such that upper portion 106 protrudes through an
opening in the inner bladder. In some implementations, sensor
enclosure 100 is positioned such that the top surfaces of upper
portion 106 and cap 120 are flush or nearly flush with an outer
surface of the inner bladder. In some implementations, sensor
enclosure 100 is positioned such that the top surfaces of upper
portion 106 and cap 120 are flush or nearly flush with an outer
surface of an outer layer of the inflatable object. In some cases,
the material of the inner bladder and the material of extending lip
portion 102 can be treated (e.g., vulcanized) to form an integral
unit. In some cases, when vulcanized, it is the bottom surface of
extending lip portion 102, rather than the top surface of extending
lip portion 102, that can mate with the inner bladder and is
affixed together.
[0038] In some implementations, an upper surface of extending lip
portion 102 can contact an inner surface of an outer layer of the
inflatable object such that upper portion 106 protrudes through an
opening in the outer layer and the top surfaces of upper portion
106 and cap 120 are flush or nearly flush with an outer surface of
the outer layer. In some cases, the material of the inner bladder
and the material of extending lip portion 102 can be treated (e.g.,
vulcanized) to form an integral unit. In some cases, the material
of the outer layer and the material of extending lip portion 102
can be treated (e.g., vulcanized) to form an integral unit.
[0039] In some cases, the bottom of extending lip portion 102 can
contact the outer surface of the inner bladder. In some
implementations, sensor enclosure 100 is secured to the inflatable
object (e.g., basketball) by applying an adhesive to the bottom
side of extending lip portion 102 in order to form a seal between
extending lip portion 102 and the inner bladder. Examples of
adhesives that can be used include, without limitation, rubber
cement and two part epoxy. In some cases, the top of extending lip
portion 102 contacts an inner surface of the inner bladder.
Extending lip portion 102 can be affixed to the inner surface of
the inner bladder using an adhesive to form a seal between
extending lip portion 102 and the inner bladder.
[0040] In some alternative implementations, groove 124 can be
configured to accept the edges of an opening in the surface of an
inflated object when sensor enclosure 100 is affixed to the
inflated object. For example, sensor enclosure 100 can be attached
to a basketball by inserting main body portion 104 through an
opening in the surface of the basketball. The bottom of extending
lip portion 102 can contact the outer portion of the surface of the
basketball while the internal surfaces of groove 124 contact the
edges of the opening in the surface of the basketball. In some
cases, the material of the inflatable object (e.g., basketball) and
the material of extending lip portion 102 can be treated (e.g.,
vulcanized) to form an integral unit. In some cases, when
vulcanized, it is the bottom surface of 102 that can mate with the
inner bladder and is affixed together.
[0041] In some implementations, sensor enclosure 100 is secured to
the inflatable object (e.g., basketball) by applying an adhesive to
the bottom side of extending lip portion 102 in order to form a
seal between extending lip portion 102 and the outer surface of the
inflatable object. Examples of adhesives that can be used include,
without limitation, rubber cement and two part epoxy.
[0042] In some cases, extending lip portion 102 can include a
tapered edge 126. Tapered edge 126 can allow the enclosure to
better conform to the inside of a spherical surface to which it is
attached.
[0043] As described above, in some implementations, sensor
enclosure 100 can be made integral with an inner bladder of an
inflated object. For example, many inflatable objects, such as
basketballs, footballs, soccer balls, volley balls, and certain
types of punching bags, are manufactured with an outer layer (e.g.,
leather, rubber, or a synthetic composite) that surrounds an inner
bladder (e.g., a rubber bladder). An inflated object is inflated by
inserting a needle through a valve disposed through both the outer
layer and the inner bladder and pumping air into the inner bladder
in order to pressurize the inside environment of the inflated
object. For example, basketballs can generally be inflated such
that the internal pressure is between 7 and 9 psi. In some
implementations, the valve is located in a different position on
the inflated object than sensor enclosure 100. In some
implementations, the valve can be located on an opposite end of an
inflated object from sensor enclosure 100. For example, sensor
enclosure 100 can be attached to the "top" of a basketball, while
the valve is located essentially or exactly 180 degrees from sensor
enclosure 100 at the "bottom" of the basketball. When the valve is
exactly 180 degrees from the sensor, enclosure material can be
added to and around the value during the manufacturing process to
weight balance the constructs (e.g., to offset the added mass of
the enclosure, the electronics, and the cap).
[0044] In some implementations, sensor enclosure 100 is made
integral with an inner bladder of an inflatable object such that
main body portion 104 extends into an internal area of the inner
bladder. Sensor enclosure 100 can be positioned such that the
internal cavity 108 is separated from an internal environment of
the inner bladder. This allows a pressure differential between the
internal environment of the inner bladder and the internal cavity
108 to be created when the internal cavity 108 is inflated (e.g.,
to between 7 and 9 psi). The walls of main body portion 104 can be
made from a flexible material such that the pressure differential
between the internal environment of the inner bladder and the
internal cavity 108 can allow the walls of main body portion 104 to
flex inward and exert pressure upon battery 110 and circuit board
112.
[0045] By allowing pressure from the pressurized internal bladder
to be imparted upon main body portion 104, sensor enclosure 100 can
allow the internal components, including battery 110 and circuit
board 112, to be more securely retained in position within internal
cavity 108. Fixing the position of circuit board 112 within sensor
enclosure 100 can reduce vibrational noise, or interference that
could be detected by the motion sensors included in the circuit
board 112. This allows the motion sensors to produce cleaner, more
accurate measurements of the motions of the inflated object
containing sensor enclosure 100 where the measurements are
relatively free of vibrational noise caused by secondary vibrations
of the sensor enclosure itself.
[0046] In some cases, cap 120 includes aperture 122 that allows the
internal cavity 108 to be open to an external environment of an
inflatable object to which sensor enclosure 100 is attached or made
integral with. This allows the pressure within the internal cavity
108 to equalize with a pressure of the external environment of the
inflatable object. When the inner bladder of the inflatable object
is pressurized, the pressure difference between the internal
pressure of the inner bladder and the pressure of the external
environment (which is also the pressure within the internal cavity
108) causes the walls of main body portion 104 to flex inward and
impart pressure upon the internal components of sensor enclosure
100 to securely retain them.
[0047] In some implementations, sensor enclosure 100 can be
attached to or integrated into an inflated object so as not to be
located within or so as not to pierce an inner bladder of an
inflated object. Sensor enclosure 100 can be attached to an
inflated object having an inner bladder such that main body portion
104 extends through an opening in the outer layer of the inflated
object but remains external to the inner bladder. This
configuration can allow sensor enclosure 100 to remain external to
the pressurized environment within the inner bladder when the inner
bladder is inflated. As the inner bladder is pressurized, the outer
surfaces of the inner bladder can contact the outer surfaces of the
main body portion 104 and apply pressure to main body portion 104.
In some implementations, main body portion 104 can be made from a
flexible or semi-flexible material to allow at least a portion of
the pressure imparted by the inner bladder to be applied to the
internal components housed within internal cavity 108.
[0048] For example, as the internal bladder is inflated, the outer
surface of the bladder can press against the outer surfaces of main
body portion 104 and apply pressure on the outer surfaces of main
body portion 104. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, when the pressure
applied to the outer surfaces of main body portion 104 increases,
one or more walls of main body portion 104 can be pressed inward,
causing internal cavity 108 to contract and further causing
securing members 115 to apply pressure to battery 110 and circuit
board 112 in order to more securely retain battery 110 and circuit
board 112 in place than if main body portion 104 were not exposed
to external pressure. The compression of the enclosure may
intentionally result in a stiffer overall system than when the
inflatable is deflated. In some implementations, aperture 122
extending through cap 120 can allow the pressure of internal cavity
108 to be maintained at the same pressure as the external
environment, therefore making the pressure imparted by the inner
bladder more effective than if the pressure of internal cavity 108
were greater than the pressure of the external environment.
[0049] By allowing the inner bladder of an inflated item to impart
pressure upon main body portion 104, sensor enclosure 100 can allow
the internal components, including battery 110 and circuit board
112, to be more securely retained in position within internal
cavity 108. Fixing the position of circuit board 112 within sensor
enclosure 100 can reduce vibrational noise, or interference that
could be detected by the motion sensors included in the circuit
board 112. This allows the motion sensors to produce cleaner, more
accurate measurements of the motions of the inflated object
containing sensor enclosure 100 where the measurements are
relatively free of vibrational noise caused by secondary vibrations
of the sensor enclosure itself.
[0050] Referring now to FIG. 2, the upper portion of aperture 118
has a diameter 202. Diameter 202 can be within the range of 15 mm
and 30 mm (e.g., 15, 16, 18, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26,
27, 28, 29, or 30 mm). In some implementations, diameter 202 can be
about 20 mm. In some implementations, diameter 202 can be about
21.675 mm. In some implementations, a diameter of the upper portion
of cap 120 corresponds to diameter 202. A middle portion of
aperture 118 can have a diameter 203. Diameter 203 can be within
the range of 15 mm and 30 mm (e.g., 15, 16, 18, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22,
23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 mm). In some implementations,
diameter 203 can be about 20.611 mm. In some implementations, a
diameter of the middle portion of cap 120 corresponds to diameter
203.
[0051] The bottom portion of internal cavity 108 can have a
diameter 204. Diameter 204 can be within the range of 15 mm and 30
mm (e.g., 15, 16, 18, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28,
29, or 30 mm). In some implementations, diameter 204 can be about
23.25 mm. The bottom of sensor enclosure 100 can have a diameter
206. Diameter 206 can be within the range of 15 mm and 30 mm (e.g.,
15, 16, 18, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30
mm). In some implementations, diameter 206 can be about 28 mm. The
sensor enclosure can have a height 208. Height 208 can be within
the range of 25 mm and 60 mm (e.g., 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32,
33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49,
50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, or 60 mm). In some
implementations, height 208 can be about 46 mm.
[0052] Cap 120 can have a height 210. Height 210 can be within the
range of 5 mm and 20 mm (e.g., 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,
15, 16, 18, 18, 19, or 20 mm). In some implementations, height 210
can be about 15 mm. The top portion of cap 120 can have a height
212. Height 212 can be within the range of 0 mm and 10 (e.g., 0, 1,
2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 mm). In some implementations, height
212 can be about 2 mm. The flared bottom portion of cap 120 can
have a height 214. Height 214 can be within the range of 0 mm and 6
mm (e.g., 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 mm). In some implementations,
height 214 can be about 3 mm. In some implementations, the height
of groove 121 can correspond to height 214.
[0053] Extending lip portion 102 can have a height 216. Height 216
can be within the range of 1 mm and 5 mm (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5
mm). In some implementations, height 216 can be about 2 mm.
Referring to FIG. 1, extending lip portion 102 can have a diameter
218. Diameter 218 can be within the range of 30 mm and 200 mm
(e.g., 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150,
160, 170, 180, 190, or 200 mm). In some implementations, diameter
218 can be about 70 mm.
[0054] In some implementations, sensor enclosure 100 can include a
charging port to allow a battery charger to be attached to battery
110 to recharge battery 110. For example, cap 120 can be removed to
expose the charging port. As another example, a portion of a
battery charger can be inserted through aperture 122 in order to
contact the charging port. In some implementations, the charging
port can connect to a charger that plugs into a standard wall
outlet and receives 125 volt AC power. In other implementations,
the charging port can connect to a standard USB computer port to
deliver, e.g., 5 volt DC power.
[0055] In some cases, a sensor enclosure provided herein can
include a valve partially disposed within a bottom surface of a
main body portion. For example, an aperture can extend through the
bottom of a main body portion of a sensor enclosure. A valve (e.g.,
a rubber valve for accepting a pumping needle) can be located in or
inserted into the aperture and attached to the sensor enclosure.
The valve can provide a sealable path from the internal cavity of
the sensor enclosure through to an inner bladder of the inflatable
object. In some cases, the cap and/or electronic components can be
removed such that a standard inflation needle can be used to
inflate the inflatable object via the valve located in the internal
cavity of the sensor enclosure. In some cases, the valve can be
located in alignment with an aperture of a cap (e.g., the aperture
122) such that a needle (e.g., long needle) can be used to inflate
the inflatable object without removing the cap and/or electronic
components.
[0056] Configuring an inflation valve in conjunction with a sensor
enclosure provided herein can allow the sensor enclosure to
function as both a secure enclosure for retaining electronic
components (such as battery 110 and circuit board 112) as well as
an air pumping valve for an inflated object. This configuration can
alleviate the need for separate openings to be made in the surface
of an inflated object.
[0057] Referring now to FIG. 5, an inflatable object 300 (e.g., a
basketball) can include an outer layer 302 and an inner bladder
304. In some cases, a winding layer (e.g., a winding layer of
nylon) can be located between outer layer 302 and inner bladder
304. A sensor enclosure 306 can be affixed to the inflatable object
300. In some implementations, the configuration of sensor enclosure
306 can be substantially similar to the configuration of sensor
enclosure 100 shown in FIGS. 1-4. In some implementations, sensor
enclosure 306 can have a configuration that is different than the
configuration of sensor enclosure 100. Sensor enclosure 306 can
securely retain electronic components such as one or more
batteries, one or more circuit boards, one or more motion sensors
(either included in, or separate from the circuit board), a
charging port for receiving a battery charger, and/or wiring for
electrically connecting the electronic components retained within
sensor enclosure 306.
[0058] As described above with respect to sensor enclosure 100,
sensor enclosure 306 includes an extending lip portion 308 for
engaging inner bladder 304. In the example shown in FIG. 5, an
upper surface of extending lip portion 308 engages an inner surface
of inflatable object 300. In some cases, the material of the inner
bladder and the material of all or a portion of extending lip
portion 308 can be treated (e.g., vulcanized) to form an integral
unit. In some cases, extending lip portion 308 can be affixed to
inner bladder 304 using an adhesive such as rubber cement or
two-part epoxy.
[0059] In some implementations, sensor enclosure 306 is attached to
inner bladder 304 such that a portion of sensor enclosure 306
extends through an aperture 310 in inner bladder 304 and an upper
surface of sensor enclosure 306 is flush or nearly flush with an
outer surface of the inner bladder 304. In some such
implementations, inflatable object 300 can include a cap 312 (e.g.,
separate from a cap of sensor enclosure 306) that fits into an
aperture 314 in outer layer 302. Cap 312 can be inserted into
aperture 314 to form a smooth, continuous surface with outer layer
302, while allowing access to sensor enclosure 306. For example,
cap 312 can be removed to allow access to a charging port of sensor
enclosure 306. Sensor enclosure 306 can include, for example, a cap
(separate from cap 312, having an aperture that extends through the
cap. In some cases, cap 312 can define an opening that can be
positioned to align with an opening present in a cap that fits
within sensor enclosure 306. The alignment of such openings can
allow a user to insert a wire connection for charging a battery
located within sensor enclosure 306. In some cases, cap 312 can be
removed from inflatable object 300 in order to expose the aperture
and allow a battery charger to be inserted into the aperture to
engage with a charging port of sensor enclosure 306.
[0060] In some implementations, cap 312 can be constructed from
rubber, flexible or semi-flexible plastic, leather, or composite
leather (e.g., synthetic leather). In some implementations, cap 312
is constructed from the same material as outer layer 302. In some
implementations, cap 312 is held in place within aperture 314 by a
friction fit. In some implementations, cap 312 and aperture 314 can
be threaded to allow cap 312 to be screwed onto inflatable object
300.
[0061] In some implementations, a portion of sensor enclosure 306
can extend through aperture 310 and aperture 314 such that an upper
surface of sensor enclosure 306 is flush or nearly flush with the
outer surface of outer layer 302. In some implementations,
extending lip portion 308 can be affixed to an outer surface of
inner bladder 304. In some implementations, extending lip portion
308 can be affixed to an inner or outer surface of outer layer
302.
[0062] Referring now to FIG. 8, a method of use 800 for an
enclosure for securely retaining electronic components includes,
without limitation, a step 802 of obtaining an enclosure. Such an
enclosure can be obtained by molding the enclosure as a separate
item. At step 804, the enclosure can be affixed to an inner
bladder. For example, the enclosure can be made integral with the
inner bladder of the inflatable object during a molding process
used to produce the inner bladder. In some cases, the material of
the inner bladder and the material of all or a portion of the
enclosure can be treated (e.g., vulcanized) to form an integral
unit.
[0063] In some cases, the enclosure can include a flared portion
that extends radially outward from a main body of the enclosure. In
some implementations, the flared portion can engage an inner
surface of the inner bladder with a main body of the enclosure
extending into the inner bladder, and a top portion of the
enclosure extending through an aperture in the inner bladder. In
some implementations, the flared portion can fit over an outer
surface of the inner bladder while a main body of the enclosure
extends into an inner portion of the internal bladder. In some
cases, the material of the inflatable object around the opening and
the material of the flared portion of the enclosure can be treated
(e.g., vulcanized) such that a continuous flow of material is
created and the enclosure becomes integral with the inflatable
object.
[0064] In some cases, the interior of the inner bladder can be
separated from an external environment of the inflatable object to
allow the inner bladder to have an internal pressure that is
different from a pressure of the external environment. The
enclosure can be positioned with respect to the inner bladder such
that an internal cavity of the enclosure is separated from an
internal environment of the inner bladder when the enclosure
affixed to the internal bladder. The inflatable object can be, for
example, a basketball, volleyball, football, soccer ball, or
inflatable punching bag.
[0065] In some implementations, a seal is formed between an
extending lip portion of the enclosure and the outer surface of the
inner bladder. For example, the extending lip portion can be
affixed to the inner bladder using an adhesive, such as, for
example, an epoxy resin. As another example, a vacuum seal can be
formed between the extending lip portion and the inner bladder. As
yet another example, a friction seal can be formed between the
extending lip and the inner bladder.
[0066] In some implementations, the enclosure is positioned such
that a top portion of the enclosure extends through an opening in
an outer layer of the inflatable object. For example, the outer
layer of the inflatable object can include an opening there
through. An upper portion of the enclosure can be positioned within
the opening such that a top surface of the enclosure is exposed to
an external environment of the inflatable object. In some
implementations, a top surface of the enclosure is flush or nearly
flush with an outer surface of the outer layer. In some
implementations, the enclosure includes a cap inserted in the top
portion and a top surface of the cap is flush or nearly flush with
the outer surface of the outer layer. In some implementations, the
cap can be removed to allow external access to components
positioned within an internal cavity of the enclosure.
[0067] At step 806, a winding layer can be added over the inner
bladder. Application of the winding layer can be performed such
that the windings do not cover the opening of the enclosure. At
step 808, an outer skin layer can be added over the winding layer.
Application of the outer skin layer can be performed such that the
outer skin layer does not cover the opening of the enclosure. At
step 810, electronic components can be positioned within the
enclosure in a secure manner. For example, an internal cavity of
the enclosure can include one or more receiving slots for receiving
various electronic components. The components can be inserted into
the receiving slots. In some implementations, foam or other
materials can be used as securing members for separating various
electronic components and securing the electronic components in
place. In some implementations, the securing members can have shock
absorbing characteristics for absorbing movements imparted upon the
enclosure. The electronic components can include one or more
batteries, one or more circuit boards, or one or more sensors. The
sensors can, for example, be motion sensors (e.g., accelerometers,
angular rate gyros, and magnetometers) for detecting motions of an
inflatable object having the enclosure. As another example, the
sensors can be temperature or pressure sensors. In some
implementations, the sensors can be included as part of a circuit
board.
[0068] At step 812, a cap can be inserted into a top portion of the
enclosure. For example, a rubber stopper type cap can be inserted
into an aperture disposed within the top of the enclosure. The cap
can be secured via a friction fit, or a pop-in type fit. In some
cases, the cap can be secured via an adhesive such as rubber cement
or two-part epoxy. The cap can be designed to provide a smooth
surface to the inflatable object in the area of the sensor
enclosure. In some implementations, the cap can include an opening
to allow air to flow between an internal cavity of the enclosure
(e.g., a cavity that retains the electronic components) and an
external environment of the enclosure. The opening can allow the
air pressure within the enclosure to equalize with an external air
pressure.
[0069] At step 814, the inner bladder of the inflatable object can
be inflated such that pressure is imparted upon at least one outer
surface of the enclosure. For example, the inner bladder can be
inflated until the internal pressure of the inner bladder exceeds a
pressure of an internal cavity of the enclosure. The pressure
imparted by the internal environment of the inner bladder onto the
enclosure can cause the internal cavity to contract, thereby
retaining the electronic components more securely within the
enclosure. The additional pressure imparted by the inner bladder
upon the enclosure can stiffen the enclosure which can lead to
reduced vibrational noise, or interference that could be detected
by motion sensors retained within the enclosure. This allows the
motion sensors to produce cleaner, more accurate measurements of
the motions of the inflatable object where the measurements are
relatively free of vibrational noise caused by secondary vibrations
of the enclosure.
[0070] In some embodiments of the method of use 800, more or fewer
steps can be performed, or steps can be performed in a different
order. For example, the step of inserting a cap into a top portion
of the enclosure can be performed after the step of affixing the
enclosure to an inner bladder of an inflatable object. As another
example, the method of use 800 can additionally include a step of
recording motion data related to movements of the inflatable object
using sensors retained within the enclosure.
[0071] A number of embodiments of the invention have been
described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various
modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention. Accordingly, other embodiments are within
the scope of the following claims.
* * * * *