U.S. patent application number 16/443504 was filed with the patent office on 2019-12-26 for rolling pool bridge.
The applicant listed for this patent is United States Government as Represented by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Invention is credited to SETH HILLS, NICOLE SHUMAN.
Application Number | 20190388773 16/443504 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 68981377 |
Filed Date | 2019-12-26 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190388773 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
HILLS; SETH ; et
al. |
December 26, 2019 |
ROLLING POOL BRIDGE
Abstract
A rolling bridge is provided that includes a single wheel having
a length greater than its diameter. The rolling bridge includes a
chassis positioned to cover at least a portion of the single wheel
and having at least two forks that extend along opposite ends of
the wheel. An axle secures the wheel to the forks of the chassis
and allows rotation of the wheel with respect to the chassis. The
chassis includes one or more clip extensions that extend upward to
define at least a portion of a substantially cylindrical channel
having two open ends and an axis that is orthogonal to the axis of
rotation of the wheel. The cylindrical channel is configured to
secure the rolling bridge to a pool cue.
Inventors: |
HILLS; SETH; (Washington,
DC) ; SHUMAN; NICOLE; (Washington, DC) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
United States Government as Represented by the Department of
Veterans Affairs |
Washington |
DC |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
68981377 |
Appl. No.: |
16/443504 |
Filed: |
June 17, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62687678 |
Jun 20, 2018 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63D 15/105
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63D 15/10 20060101
A63D015/10 |
Claims
1. A rolling bridge for a pool cue comprising: a single wheel
having a length and a maximum diameter, wherein the length is
greater than the maximum diameter; a chassis positioned to overlie
at least a portion of the single wheel, the chassis comprising at
least two forks that extend along opposite ends of the wheel, each
of the at least two forks having a portion aligned with an axis of
rotation of the wheel, the chassis further comprising one or more
clip extensions that define at least a portion of a channel having
first and second open ends, wherein the channel is configured to
secure the rolling bridge to a pool cue; and an axle securing the
single wheel to the chassis, the axle configured to allow rotation
of the wheel with respect to the chassis.
2. The rolling bridge of claim 1, wherein the single wheel has a
substantially constant diameter.
3. The rolling bridge of claim 1, wherein the channel is
substantially cylindrical.
4. The rolling bridge of claim 1, wherein the channel has a central
axis that is orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the wheel.
5. The rolling bridge of claim 4, wherein the one or more clip
extensions are configured to flex around the central axis of the
channel to secure variable diameter pool cues to the rolling
bridge.
6. The rolling bridge of claim 2, wherein the maximum diameter of
the single wheel is about one inch.
7. The rolling bridge of claim 1, wherein the length of the single
wheel is greater than one inch and smaller than two inches.
8. The rolling bridge of claim 1, wherein the channel is tapered
from the first open end to the second open end.
9. The rolling bridge of claim 3, wherein the substantially
cylindrical channel has a maximum diameter along its length and the
length of the single wheel is at least double the maximum diameter
of the substantially cylindrical channel.
10. The rolling bridge of claim 3, wherein the single wheel has a
substantially constant diameter, and wherein the substantially
cylindrical channel has a diameter that is substantially equal to
the maximum diameter of the single wheel.
11. The rolling bridge of claim 1, wherein the chassis comprises
two clip extensions and each of the two clip extensions is
positioned equidistant from a center point between the two forks of
the chassis.
12. The rolling bridge of claim 1, wherein the axle comprises a
first portion that secures a first end of the wheel to a first fork
and a second portion that secures a second end of the wheel to a
second fork.
13. The rolling bridge of claim 12, wherein the first portion of
the axle is secured to the first fork with a first pin and the
second portion of the axle is secured to the second fork with a
second pin.
14. The rolling bridge of claim 1, wherein the portion of each fork
that is aligned with an axis of rotation of the wheel comprises a
through hole.
15. The rolling bridge of claim 1, wherein the portion of each fork
that is aligned with an axis of rotation of the wheel comprises a
recess.
16. The rolling bridge of claim 1, wherein the single wheel has a
variable diameter.
17. The rolling bridge of claim 16, wherein the single wheel has a
first end portion, a second end portion, and a central portion
positioned between the first end portion and the second end
portion, each of the first end portion, the second end portion, and
the central portion having respective diameters, wherein the
diameter of the first end portion and the diameter of the second
end portion are equal to each other, and wherein the diameter of
the central portion varies to define a recess.
18. The rolling bridge of claim 17, wherein the channel is
substantially cylindrical.
19. The rolling bridge of claim 18, wherein the substantially
cylindrical channel has a maximum diameter along its length and the
length of the single wheel is at least double the maximum diameter
of the substantially cylindrical channel.
20. The rolling bridge of claim 17, wherein the single wheel has a
minimum diameter, and wherein the substantially cylindrical channel
has a diameter that is substantially equal to the minimum diameter
of the single wheel.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of the
filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/687,678,
filed Jun. 20, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in
its entirety.
BACKGROUND
Field
[0002] The present invention generally relates to bridges for pool
cue sticks and more particularly relates to a rolling pool bridge
to be used by players with disabilities.
Related Art
[0003] Many veterans participate in recreational therapy and
adaptive sports. Billiards is a popular activity for this
population, but the physical requirements for holding a pool cue
and executing a pool shot preclude many veterans from participating
in billiards. Therefore, what is needed is a system and method that
overcomes these significant problems found in the conventional
systems as described above.
SUMMARY
[0004] Disclosed herein is a rolling bridge that includes a single
wheel having a length greater than its diameter. The rolling bridge
includes a chassis positioned to cover at least a portion of the
single wheel and having at least two forks that extend along
opposite ends of the wheel. An axle secures the wheel to the forks
of the chassis and allows rotation of the wheel with respect to the
chassis. The chassis includes one or more clip extensions that
extend upward to define at least a portion of a substantially
cylindrical channel having two open ends and an axis that is
orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the wheel. The cylindrical
channel is configured to secure the rolling bridge to a pool
cue.
[0005] Other features and advantages of the present invention will
become more readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art
after reviewing the following detailed description and accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] The structure and operation of the present invention will be
understood from a review of the following detailed description and
the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals refer to
like parts and in which:
[0007] FIG. 1 is a side view illustrating an example rolling pool
bridge chassis according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0008] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the example
rolling pool bridge chassis of FIG. 1;
[0009] FIG. 3 is a side view illustrating an example fork of the
rolling pool bridge chassis of FIG. 1;
[0010] FIG. 4 is a side view illustrating an example wheel of a
rolling pool bridge according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0011] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating the example wheel
of the rolling pool bridge of FIG. 4;
[0012] FIG. 6 is an end view illustrating the example wheel of the
rolling pool bridge of FIG. 4;
[0013] FIG. 7 is a side view illustrating an example rolling pool
bridge according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0014] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating the example
rolling pool bridge of FIG. 7;
[0015] FIG. 9 is an end view illustrating the example rolling pool
bridge of FIG. 7;
[0016] FIG. 10 is a top view illustrating the example rolling pool
bridge of FIG. 7;
[0017] FIG. 11A is a side view illustrating an example rolling pool
bridge with a bolt axle according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0018] FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the pool bridge of
FIG. 11A, taken along section line 11B-11B;
[0019] FIG. 12A is an end view illustrating an example rolling pool
bridge with a bolt axle according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0020] FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the pool bridge of
FIG. 12A, taken along section line 12B-12B;
[0021] FIG. 13A is a side view illustrating an example rolling pool
bridge with a dowel axle according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0022] FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view of the pool bridge of
FIG. 13A, taken along section line 13B-13B;
[0023] FIG. 14A is an end view illustrating an example rolling pool
bridge with a dowel axle according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0024] FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of the pool bridge of
FIG. 14A, taken along section line 14B-14B;
[0025] FIG. 15 is a side view illustrating an alternative example
rolling pool bridge chassis according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0026] FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating an alternative
example rolling pool bridge chassis according to an embodiment of
the invention;
[0027] FIG. 17 is a side view illustrating an alternative example
fork of the rolling pool bridge chassis of FIG. 16;
[0028] FIG. 18 is a side view illustrating an alternative example
wheel of a rolling pool bridge according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0029] FIG. 19 is a perspective view illustrating the alternative
example wheel of the rolling pool bridge of FIG. 18;
[0030] FIG. 20 is an end view illustrating the alternative example
wheel of the rolling pool bridge of FIG. 18;
[0031] FIG. 21 is a side view illustrating an alternative example
rolling pool bridge according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0032] FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating the alternative
example rolling pool bridge of FIG. 21;
[0033] FIG. 23 is an end view illustrating the alternative example
rolling pool bridge of FIG. 21;
[0034] FIG. 24 is a top view illustrating the alternative example
rolling pool bridge of FIG. 21;
[0035] FIG. 25A is a side view illustrating an alternative rolling
pool bridge with a dowel axle according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0036] FIG. 25B is a cross-sectional view of the pool bridge of
FIG. 25A, taken along section line 25B-25B;
[0037] FIG. 26A is a side view illustrating an alternative rolling
pool bridge with a dowel axle according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0038] FIG. 26B is a cross-sectional view of the pool bridge of
FIG. 26A, taken along section line 26B-26B; and
[0039] FIG. 27 is a perspective view illustrating an example
rolling pool bridge in use according to an embodiment of the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0040] The present disclosure can be understood more readily by
reference to the following detailed description of the invention,
the figures and the examples included herein.
[0041] The present invention now will be described more fully
hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which
some, but not all embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed,
this invention may be embodied in many different forms and should
not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein;
rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will
satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like
elements throughout. It is to be understood that this invention is
not limited to the particular methodology and protocols described,
as such may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology
used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments
only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present
invention.
[0042] Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention
set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to
which the invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings
presented in the foregoing description and the associated drawings.
Therefore, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be
limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that
modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included
within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms
are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive
sense only and not for purposes of limitation.
[0043] Moreover, it is to be understood that unless otherwise
expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method set
forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed
in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not
actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is not
otherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that
the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it is in no way
intended that an order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for
any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including
matters of logic with respect to arrangement of steps or
operational flow, plain meaning derived from grammatical
organization or punctuation, and the number or type of aspects
described in the specification.
[0044] All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by
reference to disclose and describe the methods and/or materials in
connection with which the publications are cited. The publications
discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to
the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be
construed as an admission that the present invention is not
entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior invention.
Further, the dates of publication provided herein can be different
from the actual publication dates, which can require independent
confirmation.
[0045] Definitions
[0046] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the
singular forms "a," "an" and "the" include plural referents unless
the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0047] The word "or," as used herein, means any one member of a
particular list and also includes any combination of members of
that list.
[0048] Throughout the description and claims of this specification,
the word "comprise" and variations of the word, such as
"comprising" and "comprises," means "including but not limited to,"
and is not intended to exclude, for example, other additives,
components, integers, or steps. In particular, in methods stated as
comprising one or more steps or operations it is specifically
contemplated that each step comprises what is listed (unless that
step includes a limiting term such as "consisting of"), meaning
that each step is not intended to exclude, for example, other
additives, components, integers, or steps that are not listed in
the step.
[0049] Ranges can be expressed herein as from "about" or
"approximately" one particular value, and/or to "about" or
"approximately" another particular value. When such a range is
expressed, a further aspect includes from the one particular value
and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are
expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about," or
"approximately," it will be understood that the particular value
forms a further aspect. It will be further understood that the
endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to
the other endpoint and independently of the other endpoint. It is
also understood that there are a number of values disclosed herein
and that each value is also herein disclosed as "about" that
particular value in addition to the value itself. For example, if
the value "10" is disclosed, then "about 10" is also disclosed. It
is also understood that each unit between two particular units is
also disclosed. For example, if 10 and 15 are disclosed, then 11,
12, 13, and 14 are also disclosed. Similarly, in some optional
aspects, when values are approximated by use of the term
"generally" or "substantially," it is contemplated that values
within up to 15%, up to 10%, or up to 5% (above or below) of the
particular value can be included within the scope of those
aspects.
[0050] As used herein, the terms "optional" or "optionally" mean
that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may
not occur and that the description includes instances where said
event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.
[0051] Certain embodiments disclosed herein provide for a rolling
pool bridge that bears the weight of a pool cue and allows a player
to control the pool cue and execute pool shots using one hand. For
example, one rolling bridge disclosed herein includes a single
wheel and a chassis secured to the wheel by an axle that allows the
wheel to roll with respect to the chassis. The chassis also
includes two clip extensions that define a cylindrical channel
configured to secure the rolling pool bridge to a pool cue. The
cylindrical channel has a central axis that is orthogonal or
substantially orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the single
wheel. After reading this description it will become apparent to
one skilled in the art how to implement the invention in various
alternative embodiments and alternative applications. However,
although various embodiments of the present invention will be
described herein, it is understood that these embodiments are
presented by way of example only, and not limitation. As such, this
detailed description of various alternative embodiments should not
be construed to limit the scope or breadth of the present invention
as set forth in the appended claims.
[0052] FIGS. 1-3 illustrate an example rolling pool bridge chassis
10 according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 1,
the chassis 10 includes a base 20. Two forks 50 extend downward
from the base 20. Two clip extensions 30 extend upward from the
base 20 and define a cylindrical channel 40 that is configured to
receive a pool cue and secure the chassis 10 to the pool cue. As
shown in FIGS. 2-3, the chassis 10 can include a through hole 60 in
each of the forks 50. The through hole 60 is configured to secure
the chassis 10 to an axle about which a wheel rotates.
[0053] FIGS. 4-6 illustrate an example wheel 70 of a rolling pool
bridge according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in
FIG. 4, the single wheel 70 can have a single (i.e., consistent or
substantially consistent) diameter along its length. Although the
edge of the single wheel 70 may be chamfered or filleted to soften
the perimeter edge, the single wheel 70 has a single (i.e.,
consistent or substantially consistent) diameter along nearly its
entire length (between the opposed end edges). The single wheel 70
also has an axis of rotation 90. As shown in FIG. 5, the wheel 70
can comprise a through hole 80 that extends along the length of the
wheel 70 about the axis of rotation 90 of the wheel 70. As shown in
FIG. 6, the through hole 80 can be centered about the axis of
rotation 90 and extends from a first end of the wheel 70 through
the entire length of the wheel 70 through a second end of the wheel
70.
[0054] FIGS. 7-10 illustrate an example rolling pool bridge 100
according to an embodiment of the invention. The rolling pool
bridge 100 can comprise a chassis 10 having two clip extensions 30
that extend upward from a base 20 and two forks 50 that extend
downward from the base 20. The forks 50 can each have a through
hole 60 that receives an axle 110 that extends through a single
wheel 70 and secures the wheel 70 to the chassis 10 by way of a
head 112 on a first end of the axle 110 and a nut 116 that is
screwed onto an end of the axle 110 comprising threads 114. As
shown in FIG. 7, the single wheel 70 can have a single (i.e.,
consistent or substantially consistent) diameter, notwithstanding
any chamfer or other treatment to soften the edges of the wheel 70
as further described above.
[0055] As shown in FIG. 8, the rolling pool bridge 100 can comprise
a single wheel 70 that is secured to a chassis 10 by way of an axle
110 that extends through the wheel 70 and through the through hole
60 in each of the two forks 50 of the chassis 10. On one end, the
axle 110 can have a portion with threads 114. The threads 114 can
be configured to engage corresponding threads of a nut 116 to
secure the axle to the chassis 10. The nut 116 can have a diameter
that is greater than the diameter of the through hole 60 in the
fork 50 of the chassis 10.
[0056] As shown in FIG. 9, the rolling pool bridge 100 can have a
chassis 10 that is secured to the single wheel 70 by way of an axle
110 that extends through a through hole 80 of the wheel 70 and
through a through hole 60 on each fork 50 of the chassis 10. A
first end of the axle 110 can includes a head 112 that has a
diameter that is larger than the diameter of the through hole 60 on
the fork in order to secure the chassis 10 to the wheel 70.
[0057] As shown in FIG. 10, the wheel 70 can have an axis of
rotation 90, and the axle 110 can extend along the axis of rotation
and through a through hole 80 in the wheel 70. As further described
above, on a first end, the axle 110 can comprise a head 112 that
has a larger diameter than a through hole 60 in the fork 50 of the
chassis 10 in order to secure the chassis 10 to the wheel 70. On a
second end, the axle 110 can comprise a portion with threads 114
configured to receive the threads of a nut 116 to secure the
chassis 10 to the wheel 70. Similarly, the nut 116 can have a
larger diameter than a through hole 60 in the fork 50 of the
chassis 10. In combination, the head 112 and the nut 116 can secure
the forks 50 of the chassis 10 to the wheel 70 and allow the wheel
70 to rotate about its axis of rotation 90.
[0058] FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate an example rolling pool bridge
100 with a bolt axle 110 (i.e., an axle comprising a bolt)
according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 11B,
the rolling pool bridge 100 can comprise a wheel 70 that rotates
about the bolt axle 110 that extends along an axis of rotation 90
of the wheel 70. A chassis 10 can have two forks 50 that extend
down from a base 20 and along each end of the wheel 70. The chassis
10 can further comprise two clip extensions 30 that extend upward
from the base 20 to form a cylindrical (or substantially
cylindrical) channel 40 that is configured to receive a portion of
a pool cue and couple or secure the chassis 10 to the pool cue.
[0059] FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate an example pool bridge with a
bolt axle 110 (i.e., an axle comprising a bolt) according to an
embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 12B, the rolling pool
bridge 100 can comprise a wheel 70 that rotates about the bolt axle
110 that extends along an axis of rotation 90 of the wheel 70. A
chassis 10 can have two forks 50 that extend down from a base 20
and along each end of the wheel 70. The chassis 10 can further
comprise two clip extensions 30 that extend upward from the base 20
to form a cylindrical (or substantially cylindrical) channel 40
that is configured to receive a portion of a pool cue and couple or
secure the chassis 10 to the pool cue. The bolt axle 110 can have a
head 112 at a first end. The head 112 can have a diameter that is
larger than a diameter of a through hole 60 that extends through a
portion of the fork 50. The bolt axle 110 can have a portion on a
second end with threads 114. The threads 114 can be configured to
engage with corresponding threads of a nut 116. The nut 116 can
have a diameter that is larger than a diameter of a through hole 60
that extends through a portion of the fork 50. In combination, the
head 112 and the threads 114 and nut 116 secure the chassis 10 to
the wheel 70 to form the rolling pool bridge 100.
[0060] FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate an example rolling pool bridge
with a dowel axle 115 (i.e., an axle comprising a dowel) according
to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 13B, the
rolling pool bridge 100 can comprise a wheel 70 that rotates about
the dowel axle 115 that extends along an axis of rotation 90 of the
wheel 70. A chassis 10 can have two forks 50 that extend down from
a base 20 and along each end of the wheel 70. The chassis 10 can
also have two clip extensions 30 that extend upward from the base
20 to form a cylindrical (or substantially cylindrical) channel 40
that is configured to receive a portion of a pool cue and couple or
secure the chassis 10 to a pool cue.
[0061] FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate an example rolling pool bridge
with a dowel axle 115 (i.e., an axle comprising a dowel) according
to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 14B, the
rolling pool bridge 100 can comprise a wheel 70 that rotates about
the dowel axle 115 that extends along an axis of rotation 90 of the
wheel 70. A chassis 10 can have two forks 50 that extend down from
a base 20 and along each end of the wheel 70. Each fork 50 can have
a fork recess 65 configured to receive an end of the dowel axle
115. In one embodiment, the forks of the chassis 10 can be slightly
flexible and can be flexed in a direction away from the opposing
fork in order to receive an end of the dowel axle 115 in the fork
recess 65. In an alternative embodiment, the fork recess 65 can be
an end point of a groove in the fork that extends from a perimeter
edge of the fork to the fork recess 65. The chassis 10 can also
have two clip extensions 30 that extend upward from the base 20 to
form a cylindrical (or substantially cylindrical) channel 40 that
is configured to receive a portion of a pool cue and couple or
secure the chassis 10 to a pool cue.
[0062] FIG. 15 depicts an alternative example rolling pool bridge
chassis 15 according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown,
the chassis 15 can comprise a base 20. Two forks 50 can extend
downward from the base 20. Two clip extensions 30 can extend upward
from the base 20 and define a cylindrical (or substantially
cylindrical) channel 40 that is configured to receive a portion of
a pool cue and couple or secure the chassis 15 to the pool cue.
[0063] FIGS. 16-17 depict an alternative example rolling pool
bridge chassis 15 according to an embodiment of the invention. As
shown, the chassis 15 can comprise a fork recess 65 in each of the
forks 50. Each fork recess 65 can be provided on an interior
surface of the fork that faces the other fork 50. Each fork recess
65 can be configured to receive a portion of an axle (about which a
wheel rotates) and couple or secure the chassis 15 to the axle.
[0064] FIGS. 18-20 depict an alternative example wheel 75 of a
rolling pool bridge according to an embodiment of the invention. As
shown in FIG. 18, the single wheel 75 can have a first end section,
a second end section, and a central portion positioned between the
first end portion and the second end portion. The diameter of the
first end portion and the diameter of the second end portion can be
equal or substantially equal to each other. The diameter of the
central portion can vary to define a recess 77 in the single wheel
75. The single wheel 75 can also have an axis of rotation 90. As
shown in FIG. 19, the wheel 75 can comprise a through hole 80 that
extends along the length of the wheel 75 about the axis of rotation
90 of the wheel 75. As shown in FIG. 20, the through hole 80 can be
centered about the axis of rotation 90 and extend from a first end
of the wheel 75 through the entire length of the wheel 75 through a
second end of the wheel 75.
[0065] It should also be noted that in some embodiments, the outer
edge and/or inner edge of the first end portion and the second end
portion of the single wheel 75 may be chamfered or filleted to
soften the edge, however, notwithstanding this softening of the
edges, the first and second end portions of the single wheel 75 may
still be described has having a single diameter without departing
from the spirit of the invention.
[0066] FIGS. 21-24 illustrate an alternative example rolling pool
bridge 105 according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in
FIGS. 21-22, the rolling pool bridge 105 can comprise a chassis 15
having two clip extensions 30 that extend upward from a base 20 and
two forks 50 that extend downward from the base 20. The forks 50
can each have a fork recess 65 that receives an axle 110 that
extends through a single wheel 75 and couples or secures the wheel
75 to the chassis 15. In the illustrated embodiment, the single
wheel 75 has a central section recess 77 (see FIG. 19) and a
portion of the chassis 15 that forms the cylindrical (or
substantially cylindrical) channel 40 is positioned in the recess
77. As shown in FIGS. 21-22, a first end of the axle 110 can rest
in a fork recess 65 of a first fork and a second end of the axle
110 can rest in a fork recess 65 of a second fork. As further
described herein, the wheel 75 can have an axis of rotation 90, and
the axle 110 can extend along the axis of rotation and through a
through hole 80 in the wheel 75.
[0067] FIGS. 25A and 25B depict an alternative example rolling pool
bridge 105 with a dowel axle 115 (i.e., an axle comprising a dowel)
according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown, the rolling
pool bridge 105 can comprise a wheel 75 that rotates about the
dowel axle 115 that extends along an axis of rotation 90 of the
wheel 75. A chassis 15 can have two forks 50 that extend down from
a base 20 and along each end of the wheel 75. Each fork 50 can have
a fork recess 65 that receives an end of the dowel axle 115. The
chassis 15 can also have two clip extensions 30 that extend upward
from the base 20 to form a cylindrical (or substantially
cylindrical) channel 40 that is configured to receive a portion of
a pool cue to couple or secure the chassis 15 to the pool cue.
[0068] FIGS. 26A and 26B depict an alternative example rolling pool
bridge 105 with a dowel axle 115 (i.e., an axle comprising a dowel)
according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown, the rolling
pool bridge 105 can comprise a wheel 75 that rotates about the
dowel axle 115 that extends along an axis of rotation 90 of the
wheel 75. A chassis 15 can have two forks 50 that extend down from
a base 20 and along each end of the wheel 75. Each fork 50 can have
a fork recess 65 configured to receive an end of the dowel axle
115. In one embodiment, the forks of the chassis 15 cam be slightly
flexible and can be flexed in a direction away from the opposing
fork in order to receive an end of the dowel axle 115 in the fork
recess 65. In an alternative embodiment, the fork recess 65 can be
an end point of a groove in the fork that extends from a perimeter
edge of the fork to the fork recess 65. The chassis 15 can also
have two clip extensions 30 that extend upward from the base 20 to
form a cylindrical (or substantially cylindrical) channel 40 that
is configured to secure the chassis 15 to a pool cue.
[0069] FIG. 27 depicts an example rolling pool bridge 100 in use
according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown, the rolling
pool bridge 100 can comprise a single wheel 70 and a chassis 10
having two forks 50 that extend down along each end of the wheel
70. A bolt axle 110 can extend through a through hole on each fork
and through a through hole and extend along an axis of rotation 90
of the wheel 70. The bolt axle 110 couple or secure the wheel 70 to
the chassis 10 to form the rolling pool bridge 100. The chassis 10
can also have two clip extensions 30 extending upward from its base
20 to form a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical channel 40.
The cylindrical channel 40 is configured to receive a pool cue 200
as shown. In operation, the length of the wheel 70 provides a
sturdy base upon which to support the weight of the pool cue 200.
The rotation of the wheel 70 in combination with the clip
extensions 30 that couple or secure the pool cue 200 to the rolling
bridge 100 and position the pool cue 200 above the surface of the
pool table facilitates one handed operation of the pool cue 200
during billiards.
[0070] Although described herein as having a cylindrical (or
substantially cylindrical) channel, it is contemplated that the
channel can have any three-dimensional profile (triangular,
substantially triangular, rectangular, substantially rectangular,
and the like) that is capable of receiving and supporting a portion
of a pool cue as disclosed herein. For example, it is contemplated
that interior surfaces of the channel can define a cylindrical or
substantially cylindrical shape, while exterior surfaces can have
rectangular or substantially rectangular profile.
[0071] In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the wheels of
the disclosed rolling pool bridges can comprise a low-friction
outer (contact) surface that is configured to promote free movement
of the wheel on the playing surface of a billiards table. For
example, in these aspects, it is contemplated that nylon can be
used to form the wheels or define the outer surface of the wheels.
In other exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the wheel of a
rolling pool bridge can comprise an outer (contact) surface (e.g.,
a tacky surface) that is configured to promote adhesive and/or
frictional engagement with the playing surface or side walls of a
billiards table. For example, in these aspects, it is contemplated
that silicon rubber (e.g., silicon rubber Shore A 45-80) can be
used to form the wheels or define the outer surface of the wheels.
In some optional aspects, it is contemplated that a kit can
comprise a chassis 10 as disclosed herein and a plurality of wheels
having different surface engagement materials and/or properties,
with each of the wheels being configured for selective engagement
with the chassis to permit selective adjustment of the type of
wheel used with the chassis.
[0072] Optionally, it is contemplated that a plurality of rolling
pool bridges as disclosed herein can be available for use by a
billiards player. In exemplary aspects, a kit comprising a
plurality of rolling pool bridges having a variety of operative
heights and or wheel surface properties can be provided. For
example, in some aspects, the kit can comprise first and second
rolling pool bridges having respective operative heights measured
vertically from a bottom (contact) surface of the wheel to a base
portion of the channel. In these aspects, it is contemplated that
the operative heights of the first and second rolling pool bridges
can be different. In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that an
operative height ranging from about 0.5 inch to about 1 inch can be
useful for positioning against a side rail of a billiards table
(for example, when the cue ball is near the side edge). In further
exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that an operative height
ranging from about 1 inch to about 2.25 inches can be useful for
normal shots, with the rolling pool bridge spaced away from the
side rails and the arrangement of balls providing for unobstructed
contact between the pool cue and the cue ball. In still further
exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that an operative height of
equal or greater than 2.25 inches (the standard ball diameter) or
ranging from about 2.25 inches to about 3.5 inches can be useful
for shots in which it is necessary to pass the pool cue over
another ball before contacting the cue ball. As can be appreciated,
this increased height can elevate the position of the pool cue and
allow the player to avoid contact between the pool cue and the ball
that is preventing a conventional shot of the cue ball. Thus, it is
contemplated that the disclosed kits can include pool bridges
having operative heights falling within two or more of the
above-identified ranges. For example, in some aspects, the first
rolling pool bridge can have an operative height ranging from about
0.75 inch to about 2.25 inches, and the second rolling pool bridge
can have an operative height ranging from about 0.5 inch to about 1
inch. In other aspects, the first rolling pool bridge can have an
operative height ranging from about 0.75 inch to about 2.25 inches,
and the second rolling pool bridge can have an operative height
ranging from about 2.25 inches to about 3.5 inches. In still other
aspects, the kit can comprise at least three rolling pool bridges,
with the first rolling pool bridge can have an operative height
ranging from about 0.75 inch to about 2.25 inches, the second
rolling pool bridge having an operative height ranging from about
0.5 inch to about 1 inch, and the third rolling pool bridge having
an operative height ranging from about 2.25 inches to about 3.5
inches, thereby providing flexibility in addressing all types of
shots that a player may need to complete during a billiards
game.
[0073] Optionally, in still further aspects, it is contemplated
that the rolling bridge chassis 10 can have an adjustable profile.
For example, in some aspects, it is contemplated that an operative
distance between the interior surfaces of the forks 50, measured
along axis of rotation 90, can be selectively adjustable. In these
aspects, it is contemplated that one or more of the forks can be
coupled to the base such that said one or more forks can
selectively translate (in either direction along axis 90) relative
to base 20 and/or the channel 40. It is further contemplated that
the chassis 10 can comprise a lock or engagement structure that can
be selectively opened/disengaged and closed/engaged to selectively
adjust or secure the position of said one or more forks. In use, it
is contemplated that the adjustable chassis 10 can be used with a
plurality of wheels 70 that have different lengths (measured
relative to axis 90). For example, following removal of an axle or
dowel pin, a first wheel can be disengaged from and then removed
from a chassis. After removal of the first wheel, the operative
distance between the forks can be adjusted (lengthened or
shortened) as described above. With the operative distance properly
adjusted, a second wheel having a different (longer or shorter)
length than the first wheel can be rotationally coupled to the
chassis 10 through an axle or dowel pin as further disclosed
herein.
[0074] Similarly, in additional aspects, it is contemplated that an
operative height of the base 20 and/or the channel 40 can be
selectively adjustable. For example, in some aspects, it is
contemplated that the base 20 (and the clip extensions 30 and
channel 40) can be coupled to the forks 50 such that the base 20
can selectively translate (in either direction along a vertical
axis) relative to the forks. It is further contemplated that the
chassis can comprise a lock or engagement structure that can be
selectively opened/disengaged and closed/engaged to selectively
adjust or secure the position of the base 20. In use, it is
contemplated that the adjustable chassis 10 can be used with a
plurality of wheels 70 that have different heights (measured
relative to a vertical axis). For example, following removal of an
axle or dowel pin, a first wheel can be disengaged from and then
removed from a chassis. After removal of the first wheel, the
operative height of the base of the chassis can be adjusted (higher
or lower) as described above. With the operative height properly
adjusted, a second wheel having a different (taller or shorter)
height than the first wheel can be rotationally coupled to the
chassis 10 through an axle or dowel pin as further disclosed
herein. Alternatively, rather than replacing the wheels and
adjusting the height of the base 20 of the chassis, it is
contemplated that an operative height of the channel 40 relative to
the base 20 can be selectively adjustable. In these aspects, it is
contemplated that the size of the wheel can remain consistent while
the height of the clip extensions 30 relative to the base 20 can be
increased or decreased to provide a desired angle for contacting a
cue ball with a pool cue passing through the channel. It is further
contemplated that the chassis can comprise a lock or engagement
structure that can be selectively opened/disengaged and
closed/engaged to selectively adjust or secure the vertical
position of the clip extensions 30 and/or the channel 40 relative
to the base 20.
[0075] Exemplary Aspects
[0076] In view of the described products, systems, and methods and
variations thereof, herein below are described certain more
particularly described aspects of the invention. These particularly
recited aspects should not however be interpreted to have any
limiting effect on any different claims containing different or
more general teachings described herein, or that the "particular"
aspects are somehow limited in some way other than the inherent
meanings of the language literally used therein.
[0077] Aspect 1: A rolling bridge for a pool cue comprising: a
single wheel having a length and a maximum diameter, wherein the
length is greater than the maximum diameter; a chassis positioned
to overlie at least a portion of the single wheel, the chassis
comprising at least two forks that extend along opposite ends of
the wheel, each of the at least two forks having a portion aligned
with an axis of rotation of the wheel, the chassis further
comprising one or more clip extensions that define at least a
portion of a channel having first and second open ends, wherein the
channel is configured to secure the rolling bridge to a pool cue;
and an axle securing the single wheel to the chassis, the axle
configured to allow rotation of the wheel with respect to the
chassis.
[0078] Aspect 2: The rolling bridge of aspect 1, wherein the single
wheel has a substantially constant diameter.
[0079] Aspect 3: The rolling bridge of aspect 1 or aspect 2,
wherein the channel is substantially cylindrical.
[0080] Aspect 4: The rolling bridge of any one of aspects 1-3,
wherein the channel has a central axis that is orthogonal to the
axis of rotation of the wheel.
[0081] Aspect 5: The rolling bridge of aspect 4, wherein the one or
more clip extensions are configured to flex around the central axis
of the channel to secure variable diameter pool cues to the rolling
bridge.
[0082] Aspect 6: The rolling bridge of any one of aspects 2-5,
wherein the maximum diameter of the single wheel is about one
inch.
[0083] Aspect 7: The rolling bridge of any one of the preceding
aspects, wherein the length of the single wheel is greater than one
inch and smaller than two inches.
[0084] Aspect 8: The rolling bridge of any one of the preceding
aspects, wherein the channel is tapered from the first open end to
the second open end.
[0085] Aspect 9: The rolling bridge of any one of aspects 3-8,
wherein the substantially cylindrical channel has a maximum
diameter along its length and the length of the single wheel is at
least double the maximum diameter of the substantially cylindrical
channel.
[0086] Aspect 10: The rolling bridge of any one of aspects 3-9,
wherein the single wheel has a substantially constant diameter, and
wherein the substantially cylindrical channel has a diameter that
is substantially equal to the maximum diameter of the single
wheel.
[0087] Aspect 11: The rolling bridge of any one of the preceding
aspects, wherein the chassis comprises two clip extensions and each
of the two clip extensions is positioned equidistant from a center
point between the two forks of the chassis.
[0088] Aspect 12: The rolling bridge of any one of the preceding
aspects, wherein the axle comprises a first portion that secures a
first end of the wheel to a first fork and a second portion that
secures a second end of the wheel to a second fork.
[0089] Aspect 13: The rolling bridge of aspect 12, wherein the
first portion of the axle is secured to the first fork with a first
pin and the second portion of the axle is secured to the second
fork with a second pin.
[0090] Aspect 14: The rolling bridge of any one of the preceding
aspects, wherein the portion of each fork that is aligned with an
axis of rotation of the wheel comprises a through hole.
[0091] Aspect 15: The rolling bridge of aspect 1, wherein the
portion of each fork that is aligned with an axis of rotation of
the wheel comprises a recess.
[0092] Aspect 16: The rolling bridge of any one of aspects 1-9 and
11-15, wherein the single wheel has a variable diameter.
[0093] Aspect 17: The rolling bridge of aspect 16, wherein the
single wheel has a first end portion, a second end portion, and a
central portion positioned between the first end portion and the
second end portion, each of the first end portion, the second end
portion, and the central portion having respective diameters,
wherein the diameter of the first end portion and the diameter of
the second end portion are equal to each other, and wherein the
diameter of the central portion varies to define a recess.
[0094] Aspect 18: The rolling bridge of aspect 17, wherein the
channel is substantially cylindrical.
[0095] Aspect 19: The rolling bridge of aspect 18, wherein the
substantially cylindrical channel has a maximum diameter along its
length and the length of the single wheel is at least double the
maximum diameter of the substantially cylindrical channel.
[0096] Aspect 20: The rolling bridge of any one of aspects 17-19,
wherein the single wheel has a minimum diameter, and wherein the
substantially cylindrical channel has a diameter that is
substantially equal to the minimum diameter of the single
wheel.
[0097] In one aspect, a rolling bridge for a pool cue includes a
single wheel having a length and a diameter, wherein the length is
greater than the diameter. The rolling bridge also includes a
chassis positioned to cover at least a portion of the single wheel,
the chassis comprising at least two forks that extend along
opposite ends of the wheel. Each of the at least two forks has a
through hole aligned with an axis of rotation of the wheel. The
chassis further includes one or more clip extensions that define at
least a portion of a substantially cylindrical channel having two
open ends, the cylindrical channel having an axis that is
orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the wheel. The cylindrical
channel is configured to secure the rolling bridge to a pool cue.
The rolling bridge also includes an axle that secures the single
wheel to the chassis, the axle configured to allow rotation of the
wheel with respect to the chassis.
[0098] In one aspect, the one or more clip extensions flex around a
central axis of the cylindrical channel to secure variable diameter
pool cues to the rolling bridge.
[0099] In one aspect, the diameter of the single wheel is
substantially one inch.
[0100] In one aspect, the length of the single wheel is greater
than one inch and smaller than two inches.
[0101] In one aspect, the substantially cylindrical channel is
tapered from a first end to a second end.
[0102] In one aspect, the substantially cylindrical channel has a
maximum diameter along its length and the length of the single
wheel is at least double the maximum diameter of the substantially
cylindrical channel.
[0103] In one aspect, the diameter of the substantially cylindrical
channel is substantially equal to the diameter of the single
wheel.
[0104] In one aspect, the chassis comprises two clip extensions and
each of the two clip extensions is positioned equidistant from a
center point between the two forks of the chassis.
[0105] In one aspect, the axle comprises a first portion that
secures a first end of the wheel to a first fork and a second
portion that secures a second end of the wheel to a second fork. In
this embodiment, the first portion of the axle may be secured to
the first fork with a pin and the second portion of the axle may be
secured to the second fork with a pin.
[0106] In one aspect, portion of each fork that is aligned with an
axis of rotation of the wheel comprises a through hole or a
recess.
[0107] In one aspect, a rolling bridge for a pool cue includes a
single wheel having a length and a variable diameter, wherein the
length is greater than the largest diameter. The single wheel has a
first end portion, a second end portion and a central portion
positioned between the first end portion and the second end
portion. The diameter of the first end portion and the diameter of
the second end portion are equal to each other and the diameter of
the central portion varies to define a recess in the single wheel.
The rolling pool bridge also includes a chassis positioned to cover
at least a portion of the single wheel. The chassis includes at
least two forks that extend along opposite ends of the wheel. Each
of the at least two forks has a portion aligned with an axis of
rotation of the wheel. The chassis also includes one or more clip
extensions that define at least a portion of a substantially
cylindrical channel having two open ends, and at least a portion of
the cylindrical channel is positioned in the recess of the single
wheel. In this embodiment, the cylindrical channel has an axis that
is orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the wheel and the
cylindrical channel is configured to secure the rolling bridge to a
pool cue. The rolling pool bridge also includes an axle that
secures the single wheel to the chassis. The axle is also
configured to allow rotation of the wheel with respect to the
chassis.
[0108] In one aspect, the one or more clip extensions flex around a
central axis of the cylindrical channel to secure variable diameter
pool cues to the rolling bridge.
[0109] In one aspect, the largest diameter of the single wheel is
substantially one inch.
[0110] In one aspect, the length of the single wheel is greater
than one inch and smaller than two inches.
[0111] In one aspect, the substantially cylindrical channel is
tapered from a first end to a second end.
[0112] In one aspect, the substantially cylindrical channel has a
maximum diameter along its length and the length of the single
wheel is at least double the maximum diameter of the substantially
cylindrical channel.
[0113] In one aspect, the diameter of the substantially cylindrical
channel is substantially equal to the smallest diameter of the
single wheel.
[0114] In one aspect, the chassis comprises two clip extensions and
each of the two clip extensions is positioned equidistant from a
center point between the two forks of the chassis.
[0115] In one aspect, the axle comprises a first portion that
secures a first end of the wheel to a first fork and a second
portion that secures a second end of the wheel to a second fork. In
this embodiment, the first portion of the axle may be secured to
the first fork with a pin and the second portion of the axle may be
secured to the second fork with a pin.
[0116] In one aspect, the portion of each fork that is aligned with
an axis of rotation of the wheel comprises a through hole.
[0117] In one aspect, the portion of each fork that is aligned with
an axis of rotation of the wheel comprises a recess.
[0118] The above description of the disclosed embodiments is
provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the
invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be
readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic
principles described herein can be applied to other embodiments
without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus,
it is to be understood that the description and drawings presented
herein represent a presently preferred embodiment of the invention
and are therefore representative of the subject matter which is
broadly contemplated by the present invention. It is further
understood that the scope of the present invention fully
encompasses other embodiments that may become obvious to those
skilled in the art and that the scope of the present invention is
accordingly not limited.
* * * * *