Folding Basketball Goal

Info

Publication number: 20120184401
Type: Application
Filed: Jan 19, 2011
Publication Date: Jul 19, 2012
Inventors: Lawrence Shepherd (Upper Sandusky, OH), Lillian Jean Shepherd (Upper Sandusky, OH)
Application Number: 13/009,139

Abstract

The invention disclosed is a foldable basketball goal apparatus that when in the unfolded, active position, is usable as a basketball goal for playing the game of basketball. When in the folded, home position, the apparatus is usable as a sports table on which games may be played, picnics may be held, or other activities requiring a table can be carried out. The apparatus is made of a base, a frame assembly, and a basketball goal assembly. The basketball goal assembly is rotatably attached to one end of the frame assembly. The opposite end of the frame assembly is pivotally attached to the base. In the home position, the basketball goal assembly is rotated so that the back surface of the backboard acts as a table surface, creating a complete table surface when positioned next a partial table surface held by the frame assembly. The rim is protected between the frame assembly and base when in the home position. The frame assembly is pivoted between a generally horizontal orientation for use as a table, to a generally vertical position for use as a basketball goal.

Description

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

None.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

None.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the design and configuration of mechanical devices, and more specifically to a foldable, two-mode basketball goal and sports table apparatus.

Many basketball systems are available to consumers who have a need for a basketball goal system that is mobile, or one that has the ability to be stored when not being used. Some consumers may require a basketball goal that is adjustable in height. Currently, systems range from the relatively inexpensive to elaborate and robust high quality systems. Often, high quality basketball hoops need to be stored indoors to protect them from the elements and prolong their useful life. Some consumers may also wish to have a basketball goal system available when needed, but do not wish to install such systems permanently. Some situations may not allow for the installation of permanent hoops, such as those wishing to use them at a gym, where multiple basketball goals are needed during team practices, but are removed for intersquad games. Locale zoning ordinances or temporary residence circumstances can also contribute to a desire for the temporary installation of a basketball goal system.

Simple prior art systems provide for portable basketball goals, such as U.S. Pat. No. 3,025,058 to Brumfield and U.S. Pat. No. 3,722,886 to Sinner. The Brumfield patent is a basic design having a basketball goal supported by a support pole that is in turn connected to a base. The base is configured such that the entire system can be tilted backwards onto wheels affixed to the base. Thus, by holding onto the support pole, a user can push or pull the system, to move it to another desired location. Similarly, Sinner's '886 patent discloses a set of wheels for the base of the system, with the support pole extending backwards from the goal to the ground, where it can be fixed to the floor. By detaching the support pole from the floor, the Sinner system can be moved to other desired locations.

The portable systems described above are not optimized for storage, however. Largely devoid of the ability to collapse into a smaller volume, the space taken up by these and similar systems cannot be substantially reduced. Users may wish for a basketball goal system to be portable, not because they wish to deploy the system in multiple locations, but so that it can be stored while not in use. Because storage spaces are often small and basketball goal systems are large and bulky, it is desirable that said systems be collapsible as well as portable. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,841,631 to Dolan discloses a simple portable basketball goal system that can be assembled and disassembled. The ability to disassemble a basketball goal into smaller components is useful for mobility and for storing the device. The Dolan patent discloses a portable basketball backstop construction that utilizes a liquid-filled base member, detachable support post sections, and a backboard and hoop component to allow users to erect a freestanding basketball goal system. Disassembling the components of the Dolan system allows for compact storage and increases the portability of the device. When disassembled, however, the separate component pieces provide no individual functionality when in this state.

In lieu of a system that may be easily disassembled into component parts, others have developed basketball goal systems that remain assembled, but fold into more compact positions for transporting or storing. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,628,508 and 5,772,167 to Koole disclose a foldable basketball goal stand. Incorporating a basic four-bar structure between a basketball goal support and a base stand, springs allow the support to be raised to regulation height or lowered to near ground level for transportation or storage. The Koole system decreases the height of the mechanism when in the folded position, but does not decrease the footprint, or floor space taken up by the system. Other systems, such as the system disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,390,914 to Schroeder, utilize a folding mechanism to ease transportation, also without significantly affecting storage size. Furthermore, much like the Dolan patent, these systems serve no functional purpose when in the folded/stored position.

Many consumers desire a basketball goal that is adjustable. While the normal height of a basketball rim is ten feet from ground level, some prefer to lower the rim for younger players, or for a change of pace. Many systems provide for an adjustable rim height, although the range of adjustable sizes varies greatly.

Basketball goals similar to the Dolan system can be reduced to a relatively compact size, but are more difficult to transport. Transporting and storing several individual components is much more difficult than storing a single system that has been reconfigured into a more compact form. Many foldable basketball systems, however, do not significantly decrease the size of the folded system, such that a large area is needed for storage.

No devices are available that exhibit functionality when in a stored or folded position. Many consumers do not desire to have a permanent basketball goal installed, or do not have the requisite storage space for a storable unit. If a basketball goal had a secondary use when in its storage mode, the overall system would be more useful to consumers, and would provide year-round usefulness. Thus, there is presently an unmet and growing need for an improved basketball goal system that will fold for storage, and one that will provide for alternative uses of the system when in such a stored position.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is embodied in an apparatus that provides a foldable basketball hoop structure that—when in the folded or home position—becomes a sports table having a tabletop and base. The system can operate using an automatic motorized actuator to transition from the home position to the upright, basketball hoop, or active position, and to return to the home position as well. Likewise, the apparatus may be configured to require a human force input to traverse the positions, with force assistance provided or force multiplication utilized.

While many foldable, portable systems are available on the market, these have limited useful function when in the folded position. It is desirable to have multiple functions available in a foldable system so that the device is useful at all times, and not just when the basketball goal is in the active, unfolded, position. The basketball hoop and backboard make up the basketball goal assembly, which is rotatably attached to one end of a frame assembly, which is in turn connected to a base. The frame assembly portion of the apparatus is pivotally connected to the base at a pivot point at the end of the frame assembly opposite to the connection point of the basketball goal assembly. The height of the backboard and rim may be adjustable by providing for a telescopically extendable frame assembly. The fully extended position results in the hoop being positioned at the standard regulation height of ten feet off the ground.

The basketball goal assembly connected to the frame assembly rotates to fold into the frame assembly, tucking the hoop between the frame assembly and base. The result turns the back surface of the backboard and the safety shield/partial table surface covering the frame assembly into a complete tabletop when in the home position. The frame assembly rests on the base when in the home position, with the base configurable to have two benches with storage compartments affixed to either side of the base.

A preferred embodiment is a basketball goal apparatus foldable, i.e. transitionable between two modes, an active position as a basketball goal and a home position as a table with benches. The apparatus preferably comprises a frame assembly, with a partial table surface, an upper end and a lower end, a fixed frame portion to which the partial table surface is attached and a telescoping portion for extending the length of the frame assembly, thereby adjusting the goal height; a basketball goal assembly, with a backboard having a front playing surface and a back table surface and a rim attached to the front playing surface of the backboard, said basketball goal assembly rotatably connected to the telescoping portion of the frame assembly so that the basketball goal assembly is rotatable between a closed position, wherein the front playing surface of the backboard is disposed against the frame assembly such that the back table surface and partial table surface are mated to form a complete table surface, and an open position, wherein the rim is accessible for playing basketball; a base pivotally connected to the lower end of the frame assembly at a pivot connection; a lifting mechanism, with a tension spring assembly provided at the pivot connection between the base and the frame assembly providing assistive force in the direction traveled by the frame assembly when traversing from the home position to active position; and a gas spring having an upper extendable end connected to the frame assembly at an upper connection point, and a lower end connected to the base at a lower connection point, said gas spring providing assistive force in the direction traveled by the frame assembly when traversing from the active position to home position; and an extending mechanism connected to the fixed portion and the telescoping portion of the frame assembly for reversibly extending the length of the frame assembly. The two modes of the apparatus include the home position wherein the basketball goal assembly oriented in the closed position and the frame assembly pivoted so that the partial table surface is generally horizontally disposed, with the base providing support to the frame assembly, and an active position wherein the basketball goal assembly is oriented in the open position and the frame assembly pivoted so that the partial table surface is generally vertically oriented, with the base acting as a counterweight to the frame assembly. The system may be made portable by the implementation of wheels.

Other features of the system may include removable wheels that, when attached, allow the user to move the table-goal system to different locations, or to store the apparatus. To raise and lower the frame assembly, extend the frame assembly, or open the basketball goal assembly, linear actuators or other lifting/extending mechanisms may be used. When in the active mode, the cylinders or other foldable support systems may be used to create a supporting triangle between a portion of the frame assembly and the base. Also, when in the home position, the basketball hoop and net are hidden and protected between two table legs, removing them from harm's way and from obstructing the legs of table users.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a fuller understanding of the nature and advantages of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows a side schematic view showing the elements of the invention in the home position;

FIG. 2 shows a side schematic view showing the elements of the invention in the active position;

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus in the home position;

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus in the active position;

FIG. 5 shows a back view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus in which the frame assembly is in an upright position, with lifting mechanisms configured to lift and extend the frame assembly provided as electro-mechanical linear actuators and electro-mechanical scissor jacks, respectively;

FIG. 6 shows a back view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus in which the frame assembly is in an upright position, with lifting mechanisms configured to lift and extend the frame assembly provided as hydraulic linear actuators;

FIG. 7 shows a side view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus in the home position;

FIG. 8 shows a back view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus in the home position;

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus in the home position, with a lifting mechanism configured to lift the frame assembly provided as a block and tackle with mast system;

FIG. 10 shows a side view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus in the home position, with a lifting mechanism configured to lift the frame assembly provided as an under-the-table block and tackle system;

FIG. 11 shows a side view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus with a lifting mechanism configured to provide an assisting force by way of a tension spring assembly;

FIG. 12 shows a sectional view of the tension spring assembly taken through line 12-12 of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 shows a side view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus in the home position with the basketball goal assembly in an open position;

FIG. 14 shows a side view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus in a transition state between home position and the active position;

FIG. 15 shows a side view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus in the active position, with the extendable frame assembly in a retracted position;

FIG. 16 shows a side view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus in the active position, with the extendable frame assembly in an extendable position;

FIG. 17 shows a side view of the basketball goal assembly and a portion of the frame assembly in a scissor overhang configuration;

FIG. 18 shows a schematic of the electrical components necessary to utilize electrically driven lifting mechanisms in a preferred embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 19 shows a schematic of the components necessary to utilize hydraulically driven lifting mechanisms in a preferred embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 20 shows a schematic of the components necessary to utilize pneumatically driven lifting mechanisms in a preferred embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 21 shows a schematic of the components necessary to utilize pneumatically driven lifting mechanisms in a preferred embodiment of the apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Disclosed herein is a basketball goal apparatus, foldable between an active position and a home position. The main object of the invention is to provide a basketball goal system that is safe, portable, storable, foldable, compact, and useful when in a home, or folded, position (when the device is not being used as a basketball goal). The apparatus includes a basketball goal assembly pivotally connected to the upper end of a pivotable frame assembly. The basketball goal assembly includes a backboard and basketball rim, and may include other related items which may be useful to basketball players during the course of a basketball game, such as a score indicator, lights, or time display. The frame assembly is in turn pivotally connected to a base at the frame assembly's lower end. When the base is at rest, the pivot connection between the lower end of the frame assembly and the base does not experience translational motion. The upper end of the frame assembly experiences rotational motion about the lower pivot point when traversing the positions of the apparatus.

The apparatus has two main modes of operation, the home and active positions, in which the moveable elements are adjustable to certain positions needed for the mode of use desired. In the home position, the basketball goal assembly is folded into the frame assembly, so that the front surface of the backboard is disposed against the frame assembly, and the back surface of the backboard mates with a partial table surface carried by the frame assembly to form a complete table surface. The frame assembly is pivoted about the pivot point with the base to bring the frame assembly to rest on the base, such that the table surface is disposed in a generally horizontal orientation. In this position, the apparatus may be utilized as a sports table, or for any of the general purposes for which a table may be used. Users of the apparatus may, for instance, play sports games or board games on the table surface, or they may choose to use it as a picnic table. The table surface might be used as a work surface in a garage while the device is stored during the winter months in colder climates, when outdoor basketball participation ebbs, or if the apparatus is used as an indoor basketball goal, during periods of inactivity.

In the active position, the apparatus is configured for use as a basketball goal to be used by participants playing a game of basketball. This position requires the frame assembly to be lifted from its resting position on the base and pivoted about the lower pivot point, such that the table surface becomes generally vertically disposed. In this position, the table surface functions as a protective shield, shielding the apparatus from errant passes and shot attempts, and shielding players' bodies from injury should they leave the bounds of the basketball court while playing. The basketball goal assembly is pivoted about its connection point with the frame assembly so that the rim and backboard are oriented in a manner conducive to being used as a basketball goal during a basketball game. For example, the basketball goal assembly is oriented in such a manner when the rim becomes level, or parallel to the basketball court, and the front surface of the backboard is disposed in a generally vertical orientation.

Various element dimensions—such as frame assembly distance between the lower and upper ends (i.e. table length)—may be used to fit the needs of those making and using the invention, as those skilled in the art will recognize. In the preferred embodiment, the basketball assembly should come to rest in the active position so that the rim is positioned at a height of ten feet from the basketball court floor, per usual basketball competition standards. The best mode of the invention currently employs an overall table length of approximately seven feet when the apparatus is in the home position. This table length is comparable to average table sizes, while simultaneously providing a frame assembly length that is ideal with respect to the force required to lift it to an upright position. Longer table lengths increase the required input forces for a given lifting mechanism mounting point by increasing the distance between the frame assembly center of gravity and the pivot point between the frame assembly and the base member, thus increasing the reactive moment at the pivot. Seven feet is a preferred table length that is well within the lifting forces commercially available in linear actuators, given current availability and selection.

To illustrate the two basic modes of operation, FIGS. 1 and 2 are provided, showing the apparatus in the home position 100 and active position 200, respectively. Base 110 rests on surface 105. The frame assembly 120 is pivotally connected to the base 110 at lower pivot point 140, and carries a partial table surface 121. When moving between the home 100 and active 200 apparatus positions, the pivot point 140 remains fixed with respect to the base 110. The basketball goal assembly is shown having a backboard 130 and rim 135. The backboard 130 has a front surface 131 and a back surface 132, and connects to the frame assembly 120 at an upper pivot point 150.

When the apparatus is in the home position 100, the basketball goal assembly is pivoted about the upper pivot point 150 so that the partial table surface 121 and the back surface 132 of the backboard are mated to form a table surface effectively spanning the table area. The frame assembly 120 is in a lowered position, such that the partial table surface 121 is generally horizontal. The partial table surface 121 may be any material with a substantially flat surface attached to the frame assembly 120, or may alternatively be an actual surface of the frame assembly 120. The particular manufacturing method used to form or assemble the frame assembly 120 is not the object of the present invention; any method that will yield a frame assembly 120 carrying a partial table surface 121 with a sufficient area on which the backboard 130 may rest, mating back surface 132 with the partial table surface 121, is sufficient. For example, the frame assembly 120 may be created using a metal frame with an attached partial table surface made of metal, wood, plastic or even a power source, such as an array of solar cells. It could also be created by extruding one seamless unit, welding multiple metals together, or by casting a mold.

To transition to the active position 200 for playing a game of basketball, the frame assembly 120 is lifted from its generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position around lower pivot point 140. The basketball goal assembly is rotated around upper pivot point 150 so that the front surface 131 of the backboard 130 and the rim 135 are disposed in an orientation conducive to being used as a basketball goal during a basketball game. While in the active position 200, rotational movement is restricted about the upper 150 and lower 140 pivot points during use for added safety and rigidity, by varying methods depending on the particular embodiment used, as will be described in more detail below.

The weight and positioning of the base 110 relative to the frame assembly 120 provides a counterweight, or opposite moment, to moments resulting from forces applied to the frame assembly 120 when in the active position 200. For example, players dunking the basketball may apply an impulse force to the rim 135, directed generally toward the ground 105, from time to time during the use of the invention. Such a force may result in a positive moment applied at the tipping edge 206, causing the apparatus to tend to tilt toward the basketball court. The base 110 provides a countering moment to these and other tilt-causing moments to stabilize the device at all times. The base may also conveniently provide an attachment point for various add-on features, such as a scorer's table, power systems, seats, and secondary table surfaces.

The basketball goal assembly may be configured to be rotated in either the clockwise or counterclockwise directions, or to use a multiple-point swing and slide configuration to traverse the open and closed positions. However, it is preferred that the assembly rotates clockwise from closed to open, and counterclockwise from open to closed. This method ensures that the basketball goal assembly can be moved between the open and closed positions regardless of the position of the frame assembly 120, and allows the front surface 131 of the backboard to be disposed on the frame assembly 120 when in the closed position, eliminating the need for additional support or attachment means.

Various configurations of the basic elements of the invention can improve the safety, utility, and convenience of the apparatus. For example, in a preferred embodiment, depicted in FIG. 3, the apparatus 300, shown in the home position, comprises not only a base 110, a frame assembly 120, a partial table surface 121, and a basketball goal assembly comprised of a backboard 130 having a back 132 and front (not shown) surface and a rim 135. Hollow bench seats 311, a lifting mechanism 360, 362, and a power supply unit 365 are included as well.

Turning first to the composition of the frame assembly 120, in this particular embodiment it is manufactured by welding hollow square metal frame elements to one another and affixing the partial table surface 121 to the resulting frame assembly. Specifically, the elements include a tabletop frame 325, a left 326 and right 327 foot portion, and an axle portion 328. The tabletop frame 325 is composed of four additional frame elements forming a rectangle generally defining the perimeter of the tabletop. The left 326 and right 327 foot portions attach each at one end to the tabletop frame 325 and at the other end to the axle portion 328, elevating the table surface with respect to the ground. Thus, the length of the left 326 and right 327 foot portions determines the height of the table surface 121, 132 when the apparatus is in the home position. The axle portion 328 is connected to the base 110 at each end at pivot points within the bench seats (for instance). When the frame assembly 120 is lifted from the home position, the axle portion 328 thus rotates about axis 3-3.

When in the home position as shown in FIG. 3, the apparatus 300 is configured to protect the basketball rim 135 from damage and from interfering with those persons using the apparatus 300 as a table. To accomplish this result, the basketball goal assembly, frame assembly 120, and base 110 are configured so that the rim 135 comes to rest between a left frame support post 111 and a right frame support post 112. That is, the basketball goal assembly is attached to the upper end of the frame assembly at the upper pivot point along axis 7-7 and the left 111 and right 112 frame support posts are positioned on the base 110 so that, when the backboard 130 is pivoted about this upper pivot point to the closed position, the rim 135 is positioned as shown in FIG. 3. The basketball goal assembly can be moved from open to closed position by, for example, using the handle 133 provided for gripping and applying physical force to the basketball goal assembly to rotate it about the pivot. The handle 133 may be provided separately from a slidable locking mechanism (such as depicted in FIG. 7 at 1338) as provided for in FIG. 3, or may be integrated with the mechanism as a single unit, as shown in the disclosure that follows, specifically in FIGS. 7, 8, 11, and 13-16.

Benches 311 are preferably formed to create a weather resistant container. In FIG. 3 benches 311 are shown comprised of hollow bench base 316, with removeable bench lid 314. The benches can be provided with ventilation ports, or be weather tight, and provide space for housing power supply, charging systems, system controls, or transport components, such as wheels, as well as providing storage space for sports equipment. The bench lids may be press fit and freely removeable, or configured with hinges, such as shown at 318. Bumpers 142 are positioned so that they provide a bearing surface for the goal system to rest upon when in the active position. Typically such bumpers are comprised of weather resistant resilient material. The apparatus in FIG. 3 can readily be provided with removeable or retractable wheels. For instance, wheels can be attached to frame 110 at the axle end, and a lift wheel with tongue attached to frame member 114. Such wheel system is further disclosed in relation to FIGS. 7 and 8. Wheels can also be hidden inside benches 311, and when needed, pivoted into place by a lever or ratchet.

FIG. 4 depicts the same apparatus shown in FIG. 3 (therein in the home position 300), in the active position 400. Transitioning the apparatus to the active position 400 entails rotating the frame assembly 120 by lifting it from its resting position, where it was supported by the left 111 and right 112 frame support posts. The frame assembly 120 is rotated about the axis 3-3 of axle portion 328, until the partial table surface 121 is positioned in a generally vertical orientation, and the basketball goal assembly is moved to the open position, where the front backboard surface 131 is generally vertically oriented and faces the field of play, and the basketball rim 135 is generally parallel with the playing field. In the preferred embodiment depicted in FIGS. 3 and 4, left 326 and right 327 foot portions define the height of the table surface when the apparatus is in the home position 300, and are part of the frame assembly 120. Thus, when rotated to the active position 400, the left (not shown) and right 327 foot portions come to rest on the ground, bearing on bumpers 142.

In the particular embodiment shown, the length between the frame assembly axle portion 328 and the base cross member 114 (and thus the general overall tabletop frame 325 length) is insufficient to position the basketball rim 135 at a regulation height (i.e., ten feet from the ground) when the frame assembly 120 is rotated to the active position and the basketball goal assembly is opened. While one skilled in the art of constructing mechanical devices could readily construct an apparatus with dimensions sufficient to meet the regulation height, the overall length of the apparatus would be unwieldy and undesirable. Therefore, to achieve the proper rim 135 height, a means for extending the frame assembly length is employed. A simple way to provide for the additional height needed, without lengthening the base 110, is to manufacture the tabletop frame 325 to be longer than the base 110, such that the tabletop frame 325 extends past the left 111 and right 112 frame support posts when the apparatus is in the home position. Such a configuration is undesirable, however, where the floor space, or area, taken up by the apparatus when in the home position is a design consideration to be minimized.

A preferred method for achieving the correct playing height for the basketball rim 135 is to provide the tabletop frame 325 as comprised of a fixed frame portion 322 and telescoping extendable frame portion 323. The basketball goal assembly is then pivotally connected to the extendable frame portion 323, which is in turn connected with the fixed frame portion 322 in a manner that allows the extendable frame portion to be telescopically extended, for instance, increasing the overall tabletop frame 325 length. Extending the basketball goal assembly in this manner can be accomplished when the frame assembly 120 is in its lowered position, raised position, or in transition between the two. Simple mechanical locking pins (not shown) or other such methods may be used to lock the extendable frame portion 323 into position when fully extended. Alternatively, as discussed in greater detail below, extensible height struts may be used to support the extendable frame portion when the frame assembly has been extended (as shown in FIGS. 4 and 16). As discussed above, the use of an extendable frame assembly is considered the best method of the invention, as it allows the apparatus to achieve a playing height of ten feet when in the active position, and a table length of seven feet when in the home position.

In all of the embodiments of the current invention, the various moveable elements may be positioned through unassisted user-applied force. For example, a user simply gripping the handle 133 and physically lifting the basketball goal assembly from its resting point and rotating it about its pivotable connection with the frame assembly 120 may be used to move the basketball goal assembly from a closed position to an open position. One or more users physically lifting the frame assembly 120 into an upright position can likewise provide the motive force to lift it into the active position. The apparatus may also be constructed so as to utilize various sources of mechanical force assistance to aid in the transitions between the home and active positions. The descriptions that follow are intended to illustrate the application of several known force providers, including electric motors, torque tube assemblies, coil springs, and scissor jacks, as examples of the various ways to make and construct the invention.

A preferred embodiment, as depicted in FIGS. 3 and 4, takes advantage of a pair of linear actuators 360 to move the frame assembly 120 between the active 400 and home 300 positions. It is recommended that at least two linear actuators be used in cases employing such forces, as redundancy is desired for safety purposes. Should one linear actuator fail, the remaining one or more actuators can prevent a catastrophic failure of the device. In the embodiment depicted, leads 362 connect the linear actuators 360 to a power source 365 stored in the hollow benches 311. The linear actuators 360 can be electro-mechanical screws, pneumatic and hydraulic cylinders, mechanical, hand-operated screws, or other such devices. Electro-mechanical screws are considered a preferred system of providing motive force to the movable portions of the apparatus due to the low cost involved with these components. However, other design needs, such as weight or size, may indicate to those skilled in the art that other methods of providing a lifting mechanism may be more suitable in those circumstances.

As shown in FIG. 5, one embodiment of a lift mechanism employs linear actuators 360, affixed to both a cross member component 113 of the base 110 and to a cross member component 529 of the frame assembly 120 (shown also in 7). When activated, the linear actuators 360 extend to rotate the frame assembly 120 to the active position, or are reversed to contract and lower the frame assembly 120 back to home position. Various mounting positions may be employed by those skilled in the art, while a preferred configuration is depicted in FIGS. 3 and 4, wherein the cross member 113 is positioned closer to the pivot end of the base 110 than the support end. This configuration allows a shorter linear actuator to be utilized with respect to a given mounting point on the frame assembly 120, and also results in a moment about the pivot point that is smaller in magnitude, due to the decreased distance of the axial force of the liner actuators to the pivot point.

For embodiments of the invention utilizing a telescopically extendable frame assembly, such as depicted in FIGS. 4-6, various lifting mechanisms may also be employed to assist the user in the transitions between the active and home positions. FIG. 4 illustrates generally the apparatus configured to reach a desired playing height when in the active position by employing such an extendable frame assembly 120 having a fixed frame portion 322 and an extendable frame portion 323. As shown in FIG. 4 extendable frame portion 323 is in the extended configuration, with a sufficient portion of frame 323 extending telescopically into fixed frame portion 322. Extensible height struts or pushrods 324 are configured to provide the motive force for extending the frame vertically.

Extension and retraction of the extendable frame assembly 120 could be accomplished with, for instance, scissor jacks 524 and push rods 324, as depicted in FIG. 5. FIG. 5 shows the apparatus with an extendable frame assembly 120 lifted to an upright position, wherein the extendable portion 323 of the frame assembly 120 is fully retracted. The dotted lines contained within the fixed portion 322 of the frame assembly 120 in the drawing indicate the telescoping portion of the extendable portion 323 housed within the fixed portion 322. The scissor jacks 524 are connected in series, and are fixed to a push rod base 525. The pushrods 324 are connected to the push rod base 525 and the extendable portion 323 of the frame assembly 120 so that, when the scissor jacks 524 are extended, the push rods lift the extendable portion 323 to the desired height.

In a preferred embodiment, shown in FIG. 6, the apparatus is configured with extendable hydraulic cylinders 624. The cylinders 624 are housed within the fixed portion 322 of the frame assembly 120. Extending the cylinders 624, which are connected to the bottom of the extendable portion 323, therefore extends the frame assembly 120 to the desired playing height. A preferred system utilizes hydraulic cylinders having a 1½″ bore and 32″ stroke. This is allows for mounting the lift mechanism inside of the apparatus frame. The extendable frame assembly can remain in a retracted state until fully upright, decreasing the load demanded of the lifting mechanism. The load demanded of the lifting mechanism (or the manual input force required) is reduced because the frame assembly center of gravity is closer to its pivot point with the base, in turn reducing the counter moment required to lift the frame assembly. The hydraulic cylinders chosen for this application are best able to keep the table length at approximately seven feet, the preferred table length, when the frame assembly is in the retracted position.

Use of hydraulic cylinders as depicted in FIGS. 6 at 360 and 624 for providing the lift and height adjustment force allows use of a small, lever operated hydraulic pump, as found in a variety of common hydraulic jacks, to provide the force necessary to lift the system to the active mode, and to adjust the goal height. Manual hydraulic pumps are desirable because a relatively short pump lever with associated pump can be housed within a hollow bench as at 318, and the lift mechanism can be operated by almost any user, without the requirement for electric power. Similarly, an electric hydraulic pump with lever backup could be provided.

FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of a preferred embodiment of the invention in which the apparatus rests in its home position configuration 700. As shown in FIG. 7, when in the home position 700, the basketball goal assembly is in a closed position, the backboard 130 resting on the frame assembly 120 so that the rim 135 is situated beneath the table surface formed by the partial table surface 121 and the back surface 132 of the backboard 130. The frame assembly 120 is pivotally connected at the terminal ends of the axle portion 328 to the base 110, and is pivoted so that the frame assembly 120 rests on the left (not shown) and right 112 frame support posts of the base 110. The goal 135 is preferably situated to laterally align with the frame support posts. The lifting mechanism 360, connected to the base 110 and frame assembly 120 at cross members 113 and 529, respectively, is contracted. Additional illustration of the home to active position transition is shown in FIGS. 13-16 and in connection with the description of those figures. These figures illustrate various stages of a preferred embodiment in which the apparatus is transitioned from a home position configuration as at 700 (FIG. 7) to an active position configuration as at 1600 (FIG. 16).

FIG. 8 also depicts the apparatus in the home position, as viewed from the back of the apparatus. The basketball rim 135 is again shown resting between the left 111 and right 112 frame support posts when in this position. The upper pivot point, where the basketball goal assembly is pivotally attached to the frame assembly 120, is shown as the left 836 and right 837 upper pivot hinges. Other comparable methods of pivotally attaching the basketball goal assembly to the frame assembly 120 may be used, such as strap hinges, sliding rotation assemblies, or the like.

The apparatus 120 can readily be provided with removeable or retractable wheels. As shown in FIG. 7 caster 117 can be attached to frame 110 at the axle end at two locations on axle 328. Caster 117 is shown with a bracket and a wheel, with the bracket being removeably attacheable to frame 110 by sliding into caster socket 117′ of frame 110. As shown in FIG. 8, caster socket 117′ faces the end of the frame 110 on member 114. In order to effectively utilize casters 117, the apparatus is lifted from the surface using wheeled dolly 119, dolly 119 mating with or latching on the frame member on the opposite end of frame 110 from casters 117. Dolly 119, is shown with a lift wheel and attached tongue bewaring on frame member 114. Preferably the system, with wheels installed, can be moved by one person across a hard surface, or towed by a small garden tractor across turf. Wheels can also be hidden inside benches 311, and when needed, pivoted into place by a lever or ratchet. When the wheels are embodied as removeable casters, the casters can be stored in benches 311.

The frame assembly 120 is also configured to rest on, and be supported by, the left 111 and right 112 frame support posts when in the home position. These frame supports form a portion of the base 110, which includes cross members 113, 114, and benches 311. The frame support posts are preferably configured with post gussets 116 and top plate 118, with an optional bumper on top plate 118, together providing a durable rest for the goal system when in the home position. The exact configuration and make up of the base 110 is not meant to be limited by the disclosure herein, as the object of the invention is to provide shelter for the basketball rim 135, a mounting location for any desired lifting mechanism 360, 362, and pivoting attachment point for the frame assembly 120, while simultaneously acting as a counterweight for the frame assembly 120 when in the active position.

In addition to the systems disclosed in FIG. 5-7, other lifting mechanisms besides linear actuators or hydraulic cylinders may be used to move the elements of the goal system as well. For example, a simple block and tackle mechanism, such as depicted in FIGS. 9 and 10, can be employed to raise and lower the frame assembly 120 and basketball goal assembly. In FIG. 9, block and tackle support masts 960 are provided to pull the frame assembly 120 into position when the hand winch 965 is operated. The hand winch 965 can be connected with an additional gathering wheel 967 to contract the line with a common axle 966. The line 964 utilized in the block and tackle setup can be slackened and stored when the apparatus is in the home position, such as looped onto storage hooks 968 so that its presence does not interfere with the use of the apparatus as a table.

FIG. 10 depicts another mechanical configuration, in which the pulley system is contained generally inside of the table base, being less intrusive and requiring less vertical space when in the home position. The base 110 is comprised further of a foot portion 1068 upon which the fixed sheave 1061 is mounted. The movable sheave 1062 is attached to the frame assembly 120, and is pulled into the upright position when the hand winch 1065 is turned, retracting the line 1064.

Alternatively, the apparatus may be configured to include a tension spring assembly to provide assistive force to a user lifting the frame assembly into the upright position. A combination of this assistive force with a frame assembly made of lighter material, such as aluminum, can provide convenient force assistance without requiring a power source to operate the apparatus. For example, FIG. 12, a planar view taken through line 12-12 in FIG. 11, depicts the axle portion 328 of the frame assembly 120, in which tensioned springs 1261 are housed. The springs 1261 are wound about and connected to a fixed axle 1260, which is constrained in all degrees of motion with respect to the base 110. The springs 1261 are also connected to the axle portion 328 of the frame assembly 120, such that they exert an unwinding force in the direction of rotation required for lifting the frame assembly 120 into the upright position. One or more users may thus accomplish the transition from home to active position manually with less required input force. One or more lockable telescoping support rods 1111 may be locked into position after lifting the frame assembly 120 into the active position to gain more rigidity in the structure, as shown in FIG. 11. The telescoping support rods may further be designed as gas springs to limit the speed at which the frame assembly is raised, in order to counter the pulling force experienced by the frame assembly when its center of gravity crosses a vertical line passing through the base/frame assembly pivot point. Such devices may be used as needed to improve the safety and stability of the apparatus.

In an alternative embodiment, the support rods 1111 shown in FIG. 11 can be configured as slidable support rods. Such a configuration could, for instance, involve the connection point between the rods 1111 and the base 110 to be a pivotable tracked connection (not shown), allowing the rods to pivot at both ends during unfolding and folding, while also experiencing translational motion in the left to right direction at its lower connection point. The support rods could be lockable telescoping rods that slide, or rigid rods that lock into place at each end of the sliding tracks. Conversely, the slidable pivot connection could be positioned at the end of the support rods 1111 that connects to the frame assembly 120, with the opposite end being a fixed pivot.

The system is preferred to have a lifting mechanism that provides automatic or assisted traversal between the positions of the apparatus. The lifting mechanism can provide automatic traversal between the apparatus positions by using, for instance, electrically controlled linear actuators, assistive force to the user via, for example, a tension spring assembly or block and tackle system, or a combination of the methods disclosed herein. Supporting features, such as the telescoping support rods 1111 depicted in FIG. 11 or the pivotable tracked rods described above, may be used to provide stability and safety regardless of whether a lifting mechanism is employed, or the particular mechanism chosen.

While various configurations achieving these features may be employed according to the current disclosure, several considerations are noteworthy. First, the position of the lifting mechanism or support rods should be such that they are disposed in a manner that is least obstructive to use of the invention as a table when in the home position. Short lifting or support means mounted nearer to the frame assembly axle portion 328 than the support posts 111, 112 will achieve this goal. The mounting points of each end of the lifting or support means and the length will affect the table height and unobstructed under-the-table area, where users' legs will likely be positioned when using the apparatus in its home position. Telescoping lifting or support means are thus considered the best mode for lifting the frame assembly to, or supporting the frame assembly when in, the active position, as they provide a more compact profile when retracted.

Secondly, the use of a telescoping means will require the consideration of several factors. The cylinder or rod choice will be restricted in that it must be long enough for its fully extended position to reach the desired upright position for the frame assembly. Also, the position of the mounting points should be such that the direction of the force exerted by the linear actuator on the frame assembly is within an acceptable deviation from normal (with respect to the frame assembly plane) during a complete traversal between home and active positions, so that the power being used to lift the frame assembly is used efficiently. Mounting a linear actuator closer to the pivot point will, however, require relatively more force to lift the frame assembly, so these mounting must be chosen with the actuator attributes in mind.

Turning to FIG. 13, the apparatus depicted in FIG. 7 is shown with the basketball goal assembly placed in the open position. In FIG. 7, the goal assembly was shown in the stowed position, with the back surface of the backboard forming the upper table surface. In FIG. 13, the backboard 130 has been rotated about its pivot point with the frame assembly 120 so that the front surface 131 of the backboard 130 is oriented in the same direction as the partial table surface 121. Locking slide pins 1338, shown by dotted line, are slid into a locking position inside the frame assembly 120 such that the backboard 130 cannot be rotated. Such locking slide pins 1338 may be integrated in form as a handle for additionally moving the basketball goal assembly between open and closed positions. See also the depiction of the locking slide pins 1338 in connection with FIG. 8. The lifting mechanism 360 remains contracted. After situating the basketball goal assembly into the open position depicted in FIG. 13, the lifting mechanism 360 begins to extend, as in FIG. 14, causing the frame assembly 120 to lift off the left (not shown) and right 112 support posts on the base 110 and rotate about the pivotable connection between the frame assembly 120 and the base 110.

FIG. 15 illustrates the end result of the frame assembly 120 transition to an upright posture, suitable for the active position. The lifting mechanism 360 has been fully extended, so that the backboard 130 and partial table surface 121 are disposed in a generally vertical orientation. The rim 135 is disposed in a generally horizontal orientation. However, in this state, the rim 135 is not positioned at a regulation height from the ground, as the extendable portion 323 of the frame assembly 120 remains in a retracted position, being contained mostly inside (represented by the dotted lines) the fixed portion 322. The frame assembly 120 is shown fully extended in FIG. 16, wherein the apparatus is depicted in the active position, ready for play. The lifting mechanism 360 remains fully extended, or alternatively, the telescoping or slidable support rods remain locked into position.

An additional step may be included in the transition from home to active position, if the basketball goal assembly incorporates an extendable backboard 1730, permitting the backboard to be positioned horizontally away from the frame assembly 120. Providing for this additional degree of freedom would permit basketball players to have more space between the baseline indicating the basketball court lower boundary, and the partial table surface. This additional space can help prevent injuries to out of control players that cannot stop before colliding with the apparatus due to their body's momentum. The extension of the backboard 1730 could be accomplished by using, for instance, a scissor-screw mechanical assembly 1737, or other comparable methods known in the art.

FIGS. 18-21 depict configuration schematics for implementing the various lifting mechanisms discussed above. For example, FIG. 18 contains schematics for the apparatus configured with two electro-mechanical screw-type linear actuators and three electrically driven scissor jacks 524, as depicted in FIG. 5. The two linear actuators (360 in FIG. 5) are provided as the lifting mechanism for the frame assembly, and the three scissor jacks 524 in series are provided as the lifting mechanism for the extendable portion of the frame assembly. The schematics shown in FIG. 18 show the corresponding electric motors 1860 and 1824, respectively. The three-way switches 1860′ and 1824′ operate to connect the circuit to drive the motors or reverse polarity, or to break the circuit. In this manner, the switches 518 may control the lifting mechanisms depicted in FIG. 5 to raise or lower the extendable portion of the frame assembly, and the frame assembly itself.

FIG. 19 illustrates a schematic for the apparatus configured with the lifting mechanisms employed in FIG. 6. In that embodiment, the lifting mechanism utilized to lift the frame assembly comprised two hydraulic cylinders 360, and the lifting mechanism utilized to extend the extendable portion of the frame assembly comprised two further hydraulic cylinders 624 housed within the fixed portion of the frame assembly. These hydraulic cylinders are represented in the schematics shown in FIG. 19 as hydraulic cylinders 1960 and 1924, respectively. The fluid flowing into and out of the hydraulic cylinders is controlled by valves 1960″ and 1924″, respectively. The valves are such that the cylinder positions may be fixed, retracted, or extended. The motor 1965 drives the pump 1966, which in turn provides the necessary pressure to move the cylinders, before returning to the hydraulic reservoir 1968, completing the cycle.

FIGS. 20 and 21 further illustrate the use of pneumatically driven motors and cylinders, respectively, as the mechanical means for providing a lifting mechanism to the apparatus. FIG. 20 shows air compressor 2065 and pressure regulator 2066, configured to supply a constant pressure to the system. Pneumatic rotary motors 2060 and 2024 provide force to linear actuators utilized as lifting means. Air valves 2060″ and 2024″ control the airflow to the motors 2060 and 2024, respectively, allowing a user to raise, lower, and hold the position of the linear actuators during the operation of the system. FIG. 21 depicts a similar configuration utilizing pneumatic cylinders 2160 and 2124 in lieu of pneumatic motors 2060 and 2024, respectively. Other configurations utilizing various mechanical lifting mechanisms may be substituted as known by those skilled in the art, but the configurations described herein are considered to be the preferred methods for making and using the invention.

The object disclosed provides for a basketball goal that is foldable from a home position to an active position, wherein the apparatus may be utilized both as a basketball goal and as a sports table. Various lifting and extending mechanisms are applied to the structure to further assist in the transition between these positions, and to provide convenience, stability, and safety to the apparatus. The descriptions of these mechanisms are not meant to be limiting, but to allow those skilled in the art to make and use the invention. Analogous mechanisms known in the art are considered enabled by the above disclosure of the design considerations and possibilities.

Further additions to the invention may also be made without departing from the object of the disclosure. For instance, basketball games are often played with time limits, or to a predetermined score. To make the use of the invention more convenient for those playing basketball, elements may be added to assist in time keeping or score keeping. Lighted scoring or time keeping systems known in the art may be mounted on the apparatus and powered by the apparatus power source. Such systems could be mounted on the basketball goal assembly, the frame assembly, or the base. The rim could be provided with an optical or mechanical indicator to determine when a basketball goal is scored. Scores may be indicated with a light, audible signal, or may be automatically recorded on a score-keeping device.

At parks, homes, and other outdoor areas, tables are often placed in the vicinity of basketball goals for spectators or players' drinks and belongings. A secondary table surface may be provided beneath the frame assembly so that, when the apparatus is in the active position, the secondary table surface remains in a position to serve as a table for those not playing, those operating a scoring display, or for other such uses. Such a surface could be attached, for instance, to the left 111 and right 112 support arms of the embodiment shown in FIG. 3.

Depending on the power source used, a lighting system may also be provided so as to facilitate basketball games in low lighting circumstances. For example, floodlights could be mounted at the pinnacle of the basketball goal assembly to illuminate the basketball court at night. The power source may be electric, hydraulic, or other such sources, as previously indicated. Electric storage systems now known or later developed could be used to store solar energy in the form of electrical energy, to be used with the additional convenience components, the lifting mechanisms, or both.

Additionally, other games commonly played on a flat table-like surface may be provided with the apparatus and stored in the benches. For example, board games or card games could be stored in the hollow benches provided as part of the apparatus base. Other sports games, such as table tennis, may be played on the table surface when the apparatus is in the home position. Paddles, balls, and a net may be stored in a like manner. Those skilled in the art could easily modify the tabletop frame portion of the apparatus to be mounted with the table tennis net. These and other such uses of and additions to the apparatus are envisioned as being alternate embodiments of the invention as described herein.

While the invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Since certain changes may be made in the above compositions and methods without departing from the scope of the invention herein involved, it is intended that all matter contained in the above descriptions and examples or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. In this application all units are in the metric system and all amounts and percentages are by weight, unless otherwise expressly indicated. Also, all citations referred herein are expressly incorporated herein by reference. All terms not specifically defined herein are considered to be defined according to Webster's New Twentieth Century Dictionary Unabridged, Second Edition. The disclosures of all of the citations provided are being expressly incorporated herein by reference. The disclosed invention advances the state of the art and its many advantages include those described and claimed.

Claims

1. A basketball goal apparatus transitionable between an active position and a home position, comprising:

a. a frame assembly supporting a partial table surface and having an upper end and a lower end;

b. a basketball goal assembly, comprising a backboard having a front playing surface and a back table surface; and a rim attached to the front playing surface of the backboard, said basketball goal assembly rotatably connected to the upper end of the frame assembly so that the basketball goal assembly is rotatable between a closed position, wherein the front playing surface of the backboard is disposed against the frame assembly such that the back table surface and partial table surface are mated to form a complete table surface, and an open position, wherein the rim is accessible for playing basketball; and

c. a base pivotally connected to the lower end of the frame assembly,

said apparatus home position comprising the basketball goal assembly oriented in the closed position and the frame assembly pivoted so that the partial table surface is generally horizontally disposed, with the base providing support to the frame assembly, and

said apparatus active position comprising the basketball goal assembly oriented in the open position and the frame assembly pivoted so that the partial table surface is generally vertically oriented, with the base acting as a counterweight to the frame assembly.

2. The basketball goal apparatus of claim 1, the frame assembly further comprising a fixed portion to which the partial table surface is attached; and a telescoping portion to which the basketball goal assembly is rotatably connected for extending the length of the frame assembly relative to the rim and lower end.

3. The basketball goal apparatus of claim 2, the frame assembly further comprising a foot portion comprising the lower end of the frame assembly and attached to the fixed portion, wherein the frame assembly is an L-shape, with the length of the foot portion determining the height of the complete table surface when the apparatus is in the home position.

4. The basketball goal apparatus of claim 1, the base further comprising two benches attached to the base such that the frame assembly rests between them when in the home position.

5. The basketball goal apparatus of claim 4 further comprising a hollow bench attached to the base with a removeable lid and providing storage space inside the hollow bench.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein wheels are provided allowing the apparatus to be moved across a hard surface to a desired location.

7. The basketball goal apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a lifting mechanism connected to both the base and the frame assembly for reversibly lifting the frame assembly from the home position to the active position.

8. A basketball goal system foldable between an active position and a home position, comprising: said apparatus home position comprising the basketball goal assembly oriented in the closed position and the frame assembly pivoted so that the partial table surface is generally horizontally disposed, with the base providing support to the frame assembly, and said apparatus active position comprising the basketball goal assembly oriented in the open position and the frame assembly pivoted so that the partial table surface is generally vertically oriented, with the base acting as a counterweight to the frame assembly.

a. a frame assembly, comprising: a partial table surface; an upper end and a lower end; a fixed portion to which the partial table surface is attached; and a telescoping portion for extending the length of the frame assembly, thereby determining goal height;

b. a basketball goal assembly, comprising: a backboard having a front playing surface and a back table surface; a rim attached to the front playing surface of the backboard, said basketball goal assembly rotatably connected to the telescoping portion of the frame assembly so that the basketball goal assembly is rotatable between a closed position, wherein the front playing surface of the backboard is disposed against the frame assembly such that the back table surface and partial table surface are mated to form a complete table surface, and an open position, wherein the rim is accessible for playing basketball.

c. a base pivotally connected to the lower end of the frame assembly at a pivot connection; and

d. a lifting mechanism connected to both the base and the frame assembly for reversibly lifting the frame assembly from the home position to the active position,

9. The basketball goal system of claim 8, the lifting mechanism comprising:

a. a linear actuator having an upper extendable end connected to the frame assembly at an upper connection point, and a lower end connected to the base at a lower connection point;

b. a motor; and

c. a power source.

10. The basketball goal system of claim 9, wherein the upper connection point and lower connection point are positioned on the frame assembly and base, respectively, so that the linear actuator passes through a completely vertical position when traversing between the home and active positions to improve apparatus compactness when in the home position.

11. The basketball goal system of claim 8 wherein the height of the goal above the playing surface can be adjusted by extending telescoping an extendable frame portion from within a fixed frame portion.

12. The basketball goal system of claim 11, further comprising an extending mechanism connected to the fixed portion and the telescoping portion of the frame assembly for reversibly extending the length of the frame assembly.

13. The basketball goal system of claim 8 wherein at least a portion of the motive force necessary to transition the system between modes or to extend the frame is provided by one or more of an electric motor, an hydraulic cylinder, a winch and a spring.

14. The basketball goal system of claim 8, the lifting mechanism comprising:

a. a tension spring assembly provided at the pivot connection between the base and the frame assembly providing assistive force in the direction traveled by the frame assembly when traversing from the home position to active position; and

b. a gas spring having an upper extendable end connected to the frame assembly at an upper connection point, and a lower end connected to the base at a lower connection point, said gas spring providing assistive force in the direction traveled by the frame assembly when traversing from the active position to home position.

15. A basketball goal and table system foldable between modes of an active position and a home position, comprising:

a. a frame assembly, comprising a rotatable goal assembly support frame, a base, frame support posts and a partial table surface;

b. a basketball goal assembly, comprising a backboard having a front playing surface and a back table surface with a rim attached to the front playing surface of the backboard, said basketball goal assembly further rotatably connected to goal assembly support frame so that the basketball goal assembly is rotatable between a closed position, wherein the front playing surface of the backboard is disposed against the frame assembly such that the back table surface and partial table surface are mated to form a complete table surface, and an open position, wherein the rim is accessible;

c. a base pivotally connected to the lower end of the goal assembly support frame at a pivot connection; wherein the rotatable goal assembly support frame can be rotated from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position,

said system home position comprising the basketball goal assembly oriented in the closed position and the frame assembly pivoted so that the partial table surface is generally horizontally disposed, with the base providing support to the frame assembly, and

said system active position comprising the basketball goal assembly oriented in the open position and the frame assembly pivoted so that the partial table surface is generally vertically oriented, with the base acting as a counterweight to the frame assembly, and the rim being positioned for playing basketball.

16. The basketball goal and table system of claim 15 wherein when the system is positioned in the apparatus home position, the rim is located approximately between the frame support posts.

17. The basketball goal and table system of claim 15 further comprising a lifting mechanism, comprising

a. a tension spring assembly provided at the pivot connection between the base and the frame assembly providing assistive force in the direction traveled by the frame assembly when traversing from the home position to active position; and

b. a gas spring having an upper extendable end connected to the frame assembly at an upper connection point, and a lower end connected to the base at a lower connection point, said gas spring providing assistive force in the direction traveled by the frame assembly when traversing from the active position to home position; and

c. a fixed portion and a telescoping portion of the frame assembly, and an extending mechanism connected to the fixed portion and the telescoping portion of the frame assembly for reversibly extending the length of the frame assembly,

18. The basketball goal and table system of claim 17, the extending mechanism further comprising a hydraulic linear actuator connected to the fixed portion and the telescoping portion of the frame assembly for reversibly extending the length of the frame assembly, wherein the hydraulic linear actuator is contained within the fixed portion of the frame so that it is not visible from the exterior.

19. The basketball goal and table system of claim 17 wherein at least a portion of the motive force necessary to transition the system between modes or to extend the frame assembly is provided by one or more of an electric motor, an hydraulic cylinder, a winch and a spring.

20. The basketball goal and table system of claim 15, the base further comprising two benches attached to the base such that the basketball goal assembly rests between them when in the home position.

21. The basketball goal apparatus of claim 2, further comprising an extending mechanism comprised of at least one electro-mechanical screw connected to the fixed portion and the telescoping portion of the frame assembly for reversibly extending the length of the frame assembly.

22. The basketball goal system of claim 12, the extending mechanism further comprising at least one electro-mechanical screw.

23. The basketball goal and table system of claim 17, the extending mechanism further comprising at least one electro-mechanical screw connected to the fixed portion and the telescoping portion of the frame assembly for reversibly extending the length of the frame assembly, wherein the at least one electro-mechanical screw is contained within the fixed portion of the frame so that it is not visible from the exterior.