WO2004024243A1

WO2004024243A1 - Freestanding sports accessory

Info

Publication number: WO2004024243A1
Application number: PCT/GB2003/003855
Authority: WO
Inventors: Martin Thackray
Original assignee: Martin Thackray
Priority date: 2002-09-10
Filing date: 2003-09-09
Publication date: 2004-03-25
Also published as: GB2408462A; GB0220946D0; GB0505559D0; AU2003269113A1

Abstract

The, present invention relates to a freestanding sports accessory. The freestanding sports accessory (10) comprises a pliable membrane or bag (12) having a valve (16) configured to regulate fluid flow to and from the bag, which defines a fluid tight enclosure when the valve is sealed. Particulate matter (24, 26) enclosed within the bag is configured to define a rigid body when fluid is removed from the fluid tight enclosure urging the bag around the particulate matter. Furthermore, the freestanding sports accessory is configured such that the bag assumes substantially the same predetermined shape on each occasion when fluid is removed from the bag.

Description

TITLE: FREESTANDING SPORTS ACCESSORY

DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates to a freestanding sports accessory.

Informal markers such as cones or even items of clothing are commonly used to mark out temporary sports grounds, for example on a beach or in a park. Where the temporary sports ground is a football field, the informal markers can be positioned to represent goalposts, and perhaps even corner posts. Clearly such a makeshift approach has limitations; for instance, it is not possible to define a goal properly. Collapsible goals that are suitable for use on temporary football fields have been proposed. Typically, the collapsible goals comprise an aluminium frame, which can be readily disassembled into manageable lengths to provide for portability. For example, the longer frame components, such as the crossbar, may comprise hinged sections; US 5,902,195 describes such a football goal .

The present applicant has realised that such goals tend to be of limited portability, in that although they are suited to transport by car, they often cannot be easily and safely carried by hand or whilst riding a bicycle. The present invention has been devised in the light of this realisation.

Therefore, according to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a freestanding sports accessory, comprising: a pliable membrane or bag having a valve configured to regulate fluid flow to and from the bag, the bag defining a fluid tight enclosure when the valve is sealed, and particulate matter enclosed within the bag, the particulate matter being configured to define a rigid body when fluid is removed from the fluid tight enclosure urging the bag around the particulate matter, characterised in that the freestanding sports accessory is configured such that the bag assumes substantially the same predetermined shape on each occasion when fluid is removed from the bag.

The freestanding sports accessory can be made ready for use by removing fluid from the bag through the valve, whereby the bag and particulate matter tends to assume a predetermined rigid form making the accessory suitable for use. The fluid may be air, which can, for example, be evacuated by means of one or more of a hand pump, a battery operated pump and a domestic vacuum cleaner, which is adapted to fit the valve. The valve can close, perhaps automatically, to prevent ingress of fluid during use of the accessory. The accessory can be packed away after use by opening the valve to allow fluid, such as air, to flow into the bag, whereby the bag can relax its grip on the particulate matter to allow for movement of the particulate matter. The bag and particulate matter may be configured to provide for sufficient movement of the particulate matter to enable the bag to be folded.

The valve may be configured to maintain a pressure within the bag at a level lower than a pressure of a surrounding atmosphere.

The bag may be configured to assume a predetermined shape on each occasion when fluid is evacuated from the bag. For example, the bag may be substantially cylindrical and appropriately dimensioned to automatically assume, with minimal user manipulation, the shape of a crossbar.

The bag having the valve may be one of a plurality of bags enclosing particulate matter, adjacent bags being in fluid communication (e.g. by means of a tube) with each other, the plurality of bags defining a fluid tight enclosure when the valve is sealed.

The freestanding sports accessory may further comprise a sleeve, which is fitted over the bag. The sleeve may be rigid or resilient; either way it helps to shape the bag during fluid removal . The sleeve can be used to help the bag assume a predetermined shape on each occasion when fluid is evacuated from the bag.

The mass of particulate matter may comprise substantially randomly shaped and/or sized particles, e.g. scraps of polystyrene. Such particles may bind well together, thereby enhancing the rigidity of the freestanding sports accessory.

The mass of particulate matter may comprise a plurality of rounded particles. Thus, particles which are in contact with each other can readily move in relation to each other during erection and packing away of the accessory. The particulate matter may comprise granules. The particulate matter may comprise particles of a plastics material, perhaps a polymer based on propylene monomer, such as polypropylene. A plastics material can be light and thus provide for hand portability.

The mass of particulate matter may comprise a first set of particles each of substantially a first size, and a second set of particles each of substantially a second size which is less than the first size.

The particles of the first and second sets may be configured such that particles of the second set can fit in interstices between particles of the first set. One set of particles may be more dense than the other set.

The mass of particulate matter may comprise a first set of particles each of substantially a first weight, and a second set of particles each of substantially a second weight which is greater than the first weight.

The freestanding sports accessory may further comprise a sleeve which is configured to be removably fitted over the bag. The removable sleeve can be used to enhance the rigidity of the bag, protect the bag, e.g. from puncture, or for display of information, such as corporate or sports team endorsements.

The freestanding sports accessory may be embodied as a target, such as a football goal, rugby posts or a basketball hoop.

The freestanding sports accessory may be embodied as a marker, such as a football corner post or a route marker for an assault course. Freestanding sports accessories with which embodiments of the present invention can be used may be selected from the group consisting of: a goal for football, hockey, lacrosse, ice hockey or water polo, a pitch, ground or route marker for exhibitions, concerts or orienteering, net supports for tennis, volleyball, netball or badminton, supports for target nets used in basketball or netball, bases for baseball, softball or rounders, posts for American football or rugby, cricket stumps, a boxing ring, supports for an archery target, boards and supports for use in step aerobics, and athletics equipment, including hurdles, high jump or pole vault uprights and crossbars.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a freestanding sports accessory comprising two or more bags joined together, each according to the first aspect of the present invention. Thus, more complicated structures, such as goals, can be provided.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a frame for a football goal comprising a freestanding sports accessory according to the first or second aspect of the present invention.

The football goal may comprise two uprights and a crossbar. Each upright and the crossbar may comprise a bag having a valve, according to the first aspect of the present invention.

The football goal may further comprise a support member, such as an A-frame. The support member may. be of carbon fibre material. The football goal may further comprise electrical apparatus, which may be operative to generate an audio and/or visual output. The electrical apparatus may be responsive to a user action. For example, the electrical apparatus might generate a cheering sound in response to an impact of a football kicked by a user.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sports accessory, comprising: a pliable membrane or bag having a valve configured to regulate fluid flow to and from the bag, the bag defining a fluid tight enclosure when the valve is sealed, and particulate matter enclosed within the bag, the particulate matter being configured to define a rigid body when fluid is removed from the fluid tight enclosure urging the bag around the particulate matter. The sports accessory may be hand-carried sports equipment, such as a tennis racket or a hockey stick.

The sports accessory may be an accessory for sports equipment, for example a tyre for a bicycle, perhaps a replacement tyre .

A sports accessory according to the further aspect of the invention may comprise any of the features defined above with reference to the first or second aspects of the present invention.

A specific embodiment of the present invention will now be described, by way of example, and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a front view of a football goal according to the present invention;

Figure 2 is a side view of a football goal according to the present invention;

Figure 3 is a top view of a football goal according to the present invention; Figure 4 is representation of a cross-section through the football goal frame of Figures 1 to 3 ;

Figure 5A is a representation of another embodiment of the present invention, which shows a length-wise section through part of a football goal frame having an articulated sleeve, when in a collapsed state;

Figure 5B shows the embodiment of Figure 5A when ready for use; and

Figure 6 shows a further embodiment of the bag of the present invention. With reference to Figure 1, the football goal frame 10 comprises two uprights 12 and a crossbar 14, each of which constitutes a bag or pliable membrane and has a valve 16 for regulating flow in and out of the bag. Each bag has a cylindrical shape. The membrane may be formed of an appropriate material, such as a thin plastics

D RTM material (e.g. PVC) , Dacron or Mylon . As shown m Figures 2 and 3, the football goal frame further comprises a support member 18, 19 of carbon fibre material or the like for maintaining the frame in an upright position. The support member comprises vertical components 18 located behind the two uprights 12, as shown in Figure 2, and a horizontal component 19 that rests on the ground, as shown in Figure 3. Suction pads 19 are provided on the underside of the support member. An electrical apparatus 20 can provide a cheering sound when the football frame 10 or a net attached thereto is subject to impact by a football . The goal frame could also comprise a clock and/or score display.

Each of the uprights 12 and the crossbar 14 can be compartmentalised to comprise two or more bags each having its own valve for regulating the flow of air in and out of a compartment . Figure 4 is representation of a cross-section through the frame of Figures 1 to 3 and comprises the pliable membrane or bag 12, which defines an airtight enclosure

(which constitutes a fluid tight enclosure) when the valve is sealed. Rounded particles 24, 26 are enclosed within the bag. The particles are formed of a light material such as polypropylene. The particles comprise a first set of large polypropylene particles 24 and a second set of small polypropylene particles 26. The second set of small particles 26 is made of more dense material than the first set of particles 24. Thus, each particle of the second set is heavier than each particle of the first set. A removable sleeve 28 is fitted over the bag to enhance its rigidity and for display of corporate or sports team endorsements . Ground anchors (not shown) can be used to provide additional stability.

The football goal frame 10 can be made ready for use by removing air from each of the two uprights 12 and the crossbar 14. Removal of air, e.g. by means of a hand- pump, creates a vacuum which urges the bag against the particles 24, 26 causing the bag and particles to assume a rigid cylindrical form. The bag can assume a cylindrical form automatically, i.e. with the minimum of user manipulation. The valves 16 can close manually or automatically upon completion of the air removal process to form airtight enclosures. The valves can maintain a pressure within each bag at a level lower than atmospheric pressure, while the goal is in use. During removal of air from the bag, the smaller particles 26 can fit in interstices between the larger particles to provide a more tightly packed body. The suction pads 19 may help to anchor the football goal frame by gripping on smooth surfaces. Alternatively or in addition, the underside of the support member may be rubberised to increase friction between the frame and the ground; increasing friction may improve on stability.

The football goal frame 10 can be packed away after use by opening each valve 16 to allow air to flow into the bags, which causes each bag to relax its grip on the particles that it encloses. Each bag is of a sufficient volume in relation to the volume of particles that it encloses to allow the bag to be folded. The folded goal frame might be put in a specially designed carrier such as a rucksack or holdall.

The football goal frame 10 can be packed to a size of less than 300 mm by 450 mm by 750 mm. The football goal frame can have a weight of less than 25 kg.

Figure 5A shows a length-wise section though part of a football goal frame, such as a crossbar 30, when it is in a collapsed state. Figure 5B shows the length-wise section of Figure 5A when it is ready for use. An articulated sleeve 32 is fitted over a bag 14 which defines a fluid tight enclosure and encloses particulate matter 24 26, as described above. The articulated sleeve comprises a plurality of rigid sections 34 positioned end-to-end. One end of each rigid section 34 has a lip 36 configured to receive and engage with a plane end of the neighbouring rigid section. The articulated sleeve 32 is attached to the bag 14, e.g. by a plurality of straps 38 which are attached, e.g. by gluing or stitching, towards their ends to the sleeve and bag. The articulated sleeve 32 may be used for display of corporate or sports team endorsements. Alternatively or in addition, the sleeve may bear a characteristic design or be of a colour other than white (white being the conventional colour of goals), e.g. bright green.

In the collapsed state shown in Figure 5A (i.e. when the bag is in the relaxed state) , adjacent lips 36 and plane ends of the rigid sections 34 are sufficiently disengaged from each other to permit folding of the crossbar 30 for ease of storage and transportation, e.g. in a rucksack.

When the crossbar 30 is being prepared for use by evacuating fluid from the bag, the rigid sections 34 are drawn towards each other so that the adjacent lips 36 and plane ends engage properly. As the rigid sections draw towards each other, the bag 14 may bunch 40, as shown in Figure 5B. The rigid sections 32 may enhance the rigidity of the crossbar 30. In addition, proper engagement of adjacent lips 26 and plane ends may further enhance rigidity. Engagement of adjacent lips and plane ends may be improved, for example, by use of threaded couplings or bayonet joints.

Figure 6 shows a further embodiment 50 of the bag of the present invention. The bag 50 defines a fluid tight enclosure and comprises a first bag section 52 having a valve 16 and further bag sections 54, all of which are positioned end-to-end. Adjacent bag sections 52, 54 are connected by a length of tube 56 (e.g. of rubber) which allows passage of fluid between the bag sections. Each bag section 52, 54 encloses particulate matter, as described above. The embodiment of Figure 6 is made ready for use by evacuating fluid from the first bag section 52 through the valve 16. As fluid is evacuated through the valve, fluid is removed from the other bag sections 54 though the tubes 56. In all other respects the embodiment of Figure 6 is materially the same as the embodiment described above with reference to Figures 1 to 5.

It _ is to be appreciated that the freestanding sports accessory and other features described with reference to the embodiments discussed above can be combined in other embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

CLAIMS :

1. A freestanding sports accessory (10) comprising a pliable membrane or bag (12, 14) having a valve (16) configured to regulate fluid flow to and from the bag, the bag defining a fluid tight enclosure when the valve is sealed, and particulate matter (24, 26) enclosed within the bag, the particulate matter being configured to define a rigid body when fluid is removed from the fluid tight enclosure urging the bag around the particulate matter characterised in that the freestanding sports accessory is configured such that the bag assumes substantially the same predetermined shape on each occasion when fluid is removed from the bag.

2. An accessory as claimed in claim 1, in which the fluid is air.

3. An accessory as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, in which the bag and particulate matter are configured to provide for sufficient movement of the particulate matter to enable the bag to be folded.

4. An accessory as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the valve is configured to maintain a pressure within the bag at a level lower than a pressure of a surrounding atmosphere .

5. An accessory as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the bag is configured to assume a predetermined shape on each occasion when fluid is evacuated from the bag.

6. An accessory as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the particulate matter comprises a plurality of rounded particles.

7. An accessory as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the particulate matter comprises granules.

8. An accessory as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the particulate matter comprises particles of a plastics material.

9. An accessory as claimed in claim 8 , in which the plastics material comprises a polymer based on propylene monomer .

10. An accessory as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the particulate matter comprises a first set of particles each of substantially a first size, and a second set of particles each of substantially a second size which is less than the first size.

11. An accessory as claimed in claim 10, in which particles of the first and second sets are configured such that particles of the second set can fit in interstices between particles of the first set.

12. An accessory as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11, in which one set of particles is more dense than the other set .

13. An accessory as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the particulate matter comprises a first set of particles each of substantially a first weight, and a second set of particles each of substantially a second weight which is greater than the first weight .

14. An accessory as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the accessory further comprises a sleeve which is configured to be removably fitted over the bag.

15. A target comprising a freestanding sports accessory as claimed in any preceding claim.

16. A marker comprising a freestanding sports accessory as claimed in any preceding claim.

17. A freestanding sports accessory as claimed in any preceding claim and selected from the group consisting of: a goal for football, hockey, lacrosse, ice hockey or water polo, a pitch, ground or route marker for exhibitions, concerts or orienteering, net supports for tennis, volleyball, netball or badminton, supports for target nets used in basketball or netball, bases for baseball, softball or rounders, posts for American football or rugby, cricket stumps, a boxing ring, supports for an archery target, boards and supports for use in step aerobics, and athletics 5 equipment, including hurdles and high jump or pole vault uprights, and crossbars.

18. A freestanding sports accessory comprising two or more bags joined together, each as claimed in any preceding

10 claim.

19. A frame for a football goal comprising a freestanding sports accessory as claimed in any preceding claim.

15 20. A frame as claimed in claim 19, in which the football goal comprises two uprights and a crossbar.

21. A frame as claimed in claim 20, in which each upright and the crossbar comprises a bag having a valve, as claimed

20 in any one of claims 1 to 17.

22. A frame as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 21, in which the football goal further comprises a support member.

25 23. A frame as claimed in claim 22, in which the support member is of carbon fibre material .

24. A frame as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 23, in which the football goal further comprises electrical apparatus, which is operative to generate an audio and/or visual output.

25. A frame as claimed in claim 24, in which the electrical apparatus is responsive to a user action.