COLLAPSIBLE AND PORTABLE LACROSSE LAYOUT APPARATUS

Abstract

A lacrosse layout apparatus arranged to provide a lacrosse layout that can be used to perform lacrosse-related activities. The lacrosse layout apparatus comprises a goal line, a crease removably coupled to said goal line, an arc removably coupled to said goal line, and at least one diagonal extending between said crease and said arc, wherein said at least one diagonal is removably coupled to said crease and removably coupled to said arc. The goal line, crease, arc and at least one extension are configured to form a reusable lacrosse layout that is easy to assemble/disassemble on any surface, portable, and arranged such that the dimensions of the lacrosse layout are consistent and easily reproducible

Description

RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/545,893, filed on Oct. 12, 2011. The U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/545,893, including the drawings, schematics, diagrams and written description, are hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to a lacrosse layout apparatus adapted to be used in sports-related activities. More specifically, the invention is directed to a lacrosse layout apparatus that is configured to be collapsible to allow for ease of portability, transport and assembly.

2. Description of the Related Art

Lacrosse is a full contact sport played on a lacrosse field using a small solid rubber ball and long handled racket called a crosse or lacrosse stick. The head of the crosse has a loose net strung into it that allows the player to hold the ball. The object of lacrosse is to score a goal by throwing, scooping or kicking the solid rubber ball into the opposing team's goal.

A typical men's lacrosse field is 110 yards in length from each endline, and 60 yards in width from each sidelines. Lacrosse goals are centered between each sideline, positioned 15 yards from each endline and 80 yards apart from one another. Positioning the goals well within the endlines allows play to occur behind them. The goal is 6 feet wide by 6 feet tall, with nets attached in a pyramid shape. Surrounding each goal is a circular area known as the “crease,” measuring 18 feet in diameter. A pair of lines, 20 yards from both the midfield line and each goal line, divides the field into three sections. From each team's point of view, the one nearest its own goal is its defensive area, then the midfield area, followed by the attack or offensive area. These trisecting lines are called “restraining lines.” The dimensions of a women's lacrosse field can be similar to that of the men's lacrosse field, but there is some flexibility in the dimensions of a women's lacrosse field layout.

A lacrosse team is comprised of attackmen, midfielders, defensemen and a goalkeeper. The attackmen are the offensive players that attempt to score goals in the opposing team's goal and generally remain on the offensive half of the field. The defensemen assist the goalkeeper in preventing the opposing team from scoring and generally remain on the defensive half of the field. The midfielders contribute offensively and defensively and may roam the entire playing area. The goalkeeper's main responsibility is to prevent the opposing team from scoring by directly defending the goal. A goalkeeper needs to stop shots that are capable of reaching over 100 miles per hour, and is also responsible for directing the team's defense. Goalkeepers have special privileges when they are in the crease. For example, offensive players of the opposing team may not play the ball or make contact with the opposing team goalkeeper who is in the crease. If a player enters the crease while shooting the ball toward the opposing team's goal, a foul will be called and the ball is turned over to the other team.

Lacrosse fields are typically outdoor grassy fields with the layout of the lacrosse field either painted on or laid out by applying chalk onto the grassy field. Playing lacrosse on an outdoor field is also known as field lacrosse. Lacrosse can also be played indoors on a synthetic surface, sometimes known as box lacrosse. The dimensions of the layout for box lacrosse field are much smaller than that of field lacrosse.

Playing a lacrosse game and/or practicing lacrosse related skills is dependent upon the availability of the lacrosse field. Without the availability of a lacrosse field, players are not able to play or practice on a field that has the lacrosse layout. Players could practice lacrosse skills, such as passing the ball, on any surface indoor or outdoor without the lacrosse layout marked out. However, practicing lacrosse goal scoring techniques or skills requires the use of a lacrosse goal on a grassy field or other outdoor/indoor surface.

Players could practice shooting skills or play a game with a portable lacrosse goal, but the players would either have to mark out the lacrosse layout around the goal, such as the crease, goal line and arc, or opt to practice or play without the layout. Marking or laying out a makeshift layout is not always done to the proper layout dimensions, which could result in improper training due to the incorrect dimensions of the makeshift layout. Painting the makeshift layout, for every practice session or game, may not always be painted to the same dimensions as a previous or future practice session or game, or consistent with regulatory dimensions, thereby making it difficult to reproduce a consistent layout. A properly sized layout could be painted on a field, but doing so would require additional equipment, such as a field marker, which can be time-consuming and adds an additional expense. Additionally, painting a lacrosse layout around the goal is not always feasible because the field in which the players are using could be public/private land which would not allow a layout to be painted on. A disadvantage of using paint is that after the practice session or game is complete, the painted layout remains on the playing surface and is not removable, preventing the painted layout from being stored and reused on another day and/or on a different surface in order to provide a painted layout with consistent dimensions. Painting a layout on a non-grass surface, such as concrete, asphalt, wood or other outdoor or indoor playing surface, is also not feasible because the paint would continue to remain on the surface and possibly cause permanent damage to the surface.

As an alternative to paint, chalk could be used on a grass field or other outdoor/indoor surface to mark the layout. Using chalk on a grass field would not likely cause damage to the grass. Chalk could be washed away or if left on would fade over time, but chalk lines are not durable and are easily deformed. Using chalk on non-grass surface would not likely cause damage to the non-grass surface, but would likely need to be removed by sweeping, vacuuming, washing, etc. which could be cumbersome. Using chalk to mark the layout also has the disadvantage similar to using paint, in that the chalk layout remains on the surface and is not removable, which prevents the chalk layout from being stored and reused on another day and/or another surface in order to provide a chalk layout with consistent dimensions. Yet another alternative is to use tape to mark the layout. The tape can be reusable, but the tape can be flimsy and not sturdy such that it cannot maintain its shape while the layout is in use. The tape could be held down using stakes, but the stakes would have to pierce the tape which could permanently damage the tape. Over time the tape would have to be discarded and replaced due to its lack of durability. Yet another disadvantage in using paint, chalk and/or tape is that paint, chalk and/or would need to be repeatedly purchased in order to form the makeshift layout, which over time could be expensive.

SUMMARY

The invention disclosed herein provides various embodiments of a lacrosse layout apparatus that are cost effective, easy to assemble/disassemble, easily transportable and provide the required structural support to maintain the layout shape on an indoor and/or outdoor surface. The different embodiments comprise elements to allow for the lacrosse layout apparatus to be collapsible, easy to transport between locations and yet provide a reproducible consistently sized lacrosse layout to allow for sports practice or training, such as but not limited to lacrosse. The invention is also configured such that the lacrosse layout apparatus can be easily assembled or disassembled by a single individual.

In one embodiment, as broadly described herein, a lacrosse layout apparatus comprises a goal line comprising a first end and a second end, a crease removably coupled to said goal line, an arc removably coupled to said goal line at said first end and said second end, and at least one diagonal extending between said crease and said arc, wherein said at least one diagonal is removably coupled to said goal line and said crease and removably coupled to said arc. The goal line, crease, arc and at least one extension are configured to form a reusable lacrosse layout that is easy to assemble/disassemble, such that the dimensions of the lacrosse layout are consistent and easily reproducible.

In another embodiment, the lacrosse layout comprises at least one weight plate including at least one slot and at least one support portion, a goal line comprising a first end and a second end, wherein said first end of said goal line is removably coupled to a first weight plate and said second end of said goal line removably coupled to a second weight plate. The lacrosse layout further comprises a crease removably coupled to said goal line, wherein said crease is configured such that the shape of said crease can be reduced, an arc removably coupled to said first weight plate and said second weight plate, such that said arc is in the form of a semicircle proximate said crease, and at least one diagonal removably coupled to said arc and said crease.

These and other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings which illustrate by way of example the features of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an overhead view of one embodiment of a lacrosse layout apparatus according to the invention;

FIG. 1a is a partial view of an embodiment of a first connection point of the lacrosse layout apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 1b is a partial view of another embodiment of a first connection point of the lacrosse layout apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 1c is an overhead view of one embodiment of a weight plate of the first connection point of FIG. 1b;

FIG. 1d is a side view of the weight plate of FIG. 1c;

FIG. 2 is a partial view of an embodiment of a second connection point of the lacrosse layout apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a partial view of an embodiment of a third connection point of the lacrosse layout apparatus of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The invention described herein is directed to different embodiments of lacrosse layout apparatuses that in some embodiments provide a lacrosse crease and arc layout that is easy to setup and is collapsible such that the lacrosse layout apparatus is easy to assemble by a single individual, store and is portable. The lacrosse layout apparatus can comprise many different materials and can be used in many different applications such as, but not limited to, practicing lacrosse skills, throwing, catching and/or blocking lacrosse balls. The lacrosse layout apparatus can be arranged in many different ways with many different components, and is generally arranged to provide a lacrosse crease and arc layout to be used with a lacrosse goal. In one embodiment, a lacrosse layout apparatus comprises a goal line comprising a first end and a second end, a crease removably coupled to said goal line, an arc removably coupled to said goal line and at least one diagonal extending between said crease and said arc. The goal line, crease, arc and at least one diagonal are adapted to easily form a lacrosse crease and arc layout, of regulation size, that is reusable and easily transportable. In other embodiments, the lacrosse layout apparatus comprises at least one weight plate, a goal line comprising a first end and a second end, wherein said first end is removably coupled to a first weight plate and said second end is removably coupled to a second weight plate. The lacrosse layout apparatus further comprises a crease removably coupled to said goal line, wherein said crease is made of flexible material such that said crease is adapted to be folded and stored. The apparatus further comprises an arc removably coupled to said first and second ends of said goal line forming a semicircle proximate said crease and first and second diagonals arranged to be removably coupled to said goal line and said crease and said arc. The layout further comprises support points arranged to receive a weight and or a stake to maintain the layout configuration of the apparatus. An advantage of the invention is that the lacrosse layout apparatus can be assembled on any surface, either indoor or outdoor, thereby allowing users to setup a lacrosse goal area in any setting. The invention eliminates the need of having to mark an area using paint, chalk or tape.

The lacrosse layout apparatus of the present invention can provide a number of additional advantages beyond those mentioned above. For example, the crease and arc allow for ease of assembly/disassembly and storage of the lacrosse layout apparatus because the crease and arc are formed of strong yet flexible materials that allow the crease and arc to be coiled up and placed in a small bag or container. Typical lacrosse layouts are painted on or marked using chalk, and remain on the surface on which the layout was painted or marked with chalk. These typical layouts are not portable and could fade away over time, which would require the layout to be repainted or re-marked with chalk. Furthermore, using paint or chalk to mark a lacrosse layout requires the use of additional equipment which adds additional costs beyond the costs of the paint/chalk.

The invention is described herein with reference to certain embodiments, but it is understood that the invention can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. In particular, the present invention is described below in regards to a lacrosse layout apparatus to practice or perform sports-related activities in an outdoor and/or indoor setting, but it is understood that the invention can be used for many other applications in many different settings. The components of the lacrosse apparatus can have different shapes and sizes beyond those shown in the figures or discussed herein.

It is to be understood that when an element or component is referred to as being “on” another element or component, it can be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also be present. Furthermore, relative terms such as “between”, “within”, “below”, and similar terms, may be used herein to describe a relationship of one element or component to another. It is understood that these terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures.

Embodiments of the invention are described herein with reference to illustrations that are schematic illustrations. As such, the actual thickness of elements can be different, and variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances are expected. Thus, the elements illustrated in the figures are schematic in nature and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the precise shape of a region of a device and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a lacrosse layout apparatus 10 according to an embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 is configured such that the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 can be deployed in an outdoor setting such as, but not limited to, a natural grass, synthetic field, dirt, concrete or the like. In other embodiments, the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 can be deployed in an indoor setting such as but not limited to an indoor training facility, residential or commercial setting having a synthetic or natural surface, concrete, wood, asphalt or the like. The lacrosse layout apparatus 10 can be used in lacrosse-related activities, such as but not limited to defensive skills and goaltending. The lacrosse layout apparatus 10 can also be used to allow users to practice offensive plays related to passing the ball to teammates proximate an arc and/or crease, as well as goal scoring strategies and practice scoring a goal by throwing a lacrosse ball to a goal used along with the lacrosse layout apparatus 10. The lacrosse layout apparatus 10 comprises a goal line 20 comprising a first end 21 and a second end 22, a crease 24 removably coupled to said goal line, an arc removably coupled to said goal line 20 at said first and second ends 21, 22. The lacrosse layout apparatus 10 further comprises at least one diagonal 28 extending between said arc 26 and an intersection of the goal line 20 and crease 24. The crease 24 and arc 26 can be formed of strong, yet flexible material that can withstand the force of a ball or of a user such that the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 maintains the positioning of at least the crease 24 and arc 26 while in use.

For the same or similar elements or features, the reference numbers from FIG. 1 will be used throughout the application herein. In one embodiment of the invention, the goal line 20 comprises a first end 21 and a second end 22 with the goal line 20 extending therebetween. The goal line 20 can be formed of flexible material that can be rolled up when not in use. The goal line 20 is further formed of material that is resilient, tough, durable and able withstand the wear and tear of users using the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 and weather conditions. The goal line 20 is arranged to mark a goal line portion of a lacrosse layout upon which a lacrosse goal can be placed. The goal line 20 is further arranged to maintain its positioning. The goal line 20 comprises a plurality of support points 30 which assist in maintaining the positioning of the goal line 20. The plurality of support points 30 are positioned along the length of the goal line 20 such that the support points 30 maintain the goal line 20 in a substantially straight line.

In one embodiment, the plurality of support points 30 are grommets attached to the goal line 20 which provide an opening configured to receive a stake, peg or similar device that can be driven into the ground to hold the goal line 20 to the ground. The stake and grommets provide support to firmly hold the goal line 20 and prevent the goal line 20 from being misshapen due to external forces, such as but not limited to users of the layout, equipment used by users, or forces of nature. Removal of the stake from the grommet allows for the goal line 20 to be picked up and stored for later use. The stake and grommets can be used on as a grass field or other natural or synthetic surface configured to receive a stake, peg or similar device. In other embodiments, the plurality of support points 30 are comprised of pockets or openings within the goal line 20, wherein a weight can be placed in the pockets or openings. Placing the weights in the pocket of the goal line 20 provide sufficient support so that the goal line 20 remains in place. Removal of the weights allows the goal line 20 to be removed from the surface and stored for later use. The weights and pockets configuration of the goal line 20 can be used on a surface when driving a stake into the surface would not provide the requisite support to hold the goal line 20 in place, such as but not limited to sand, snow, wet soil, loose soil or the like, or when driving a stake would cause damage to the stake and/or the surface upon which the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 is laid on, such as but not limited to concrete, asphalt, wood, or the like. In yet other embodiments, the plurality of support points can be comprised of both the grommets and the pockets to receive the weights.

The crease 24 is the circular area of a lacrosse layout wherein a lacrosse goal is placed. The crease 24 is comprised of a support frame member 34 housed within a crease cover 25. The support frame member 34 is adapted to be flexible such that the crease 24 can be bent or folded into a coil so that the crease 24 can be stored in a small container, such as but not limited to a bag. The crease 24, when coiled, can be stored many different ways and is not intended to be limited to being stored in a bag. For example, the crease 24 can also be stored in a coil by wrapping a band, bracket, clamp or the like, around part of the coiled crease 24. The crease 24 is arranged to maintain its positioning in a manner similar to the goal line discussed above. The crease cover 25 can comprise a plurality of support points 30 which assist in maintaining the positioning of the crease 24. The plurality of support points 30 are positioned along the circumference of the crease 24 such that the support points 30 maintain the crease 24 in a substantially circular arrangement.

In one embodiment, the support frame member 34 of the crease 24 comprises a plurality of rods 37 and a plurality of couplers (not shown), wherein each of said plurality of rods 37 are received by a respective coupler to form the support frame member 34. Each of said plurality of rods 37 are configured to have a curved shaped, such that when all of said plurality of rods 37 are attached to the respective couplers, the resultant support frame member 34 forms the circular shape of the crease 24. In another embodiment, the support frame member 34 is comprised of one rod 37 and one coupler. In this embodiment, the support frame member 34 could be formed of a single rod 37 that is shaped to form the circular shape of the crease 24. The single rod 37 is also flexible and strong similar to the plurality of rods 37 discussed above. The rods 37 can be formed of many different materials. In one embodiment, the rods 37 are formed of a composite material that is strong and flexible, such as but not limited to, plastic, fiberglass, carbon fiber or the like, such that the support frame member 34 can withstand the force exerted on it while yet being easily adapted to be coiled and stored in a storage container. However, in other embodiments the support frame member 34 can be formed of many other materials and is not intended to be limited to be formed of a composite material.

An advantage of the invention is that the crease 24 can reduce its overall shape so that the crease 24 can be easily stored and transported. A regulation crease can have a diameter of approximately 16 feet, and in one embodiment of the invention, the crease 24 can be fabricated to be regulation sized, while yet possessing the ability to be coiled into a smaller circular shape having a diameter much less than 16 feet. The flexibility of the support frame member 34 allows the crease to be easily stored and portable, while yet being able to form the circular shape after being uncoiled. The support frame member 34 is configured such that arranging the support frame member 34 in a coiled arrangement does not permanently bend and/or distort the support frame member 34. The crease 24 can be formed to have a diameter of many different sizes, less than or greater than 16 feet, and is not intended to be limited to having a diameter of approximately 16 feet. Lacrosse creases are known in the art to be of different dimensions based on different rules and regulations. For example, the size of a crease can vary from between different age groups, skill level, and/or gender.

The goal line 20 and crease 24 are arranged to be removably coupled to each other. In some embodiments, the goal line 20 is arranged to intersect the crease 24 at two points along the crease 24, such that the goal line and crease 24 are removably coupled to each other at each of the two crease intersections 14. As shown in FIG. 1, the crease 24 is arranged between the first end 21 and the second end 22 of the goal line 20, such that the goal line 20 bisects the crease 24 at two points, which are the crease intersections 14. The crease intersections 14 are arranged such that the crease 24 and goal line 20 are securely coupled to each other in such a manner so that the crease 24 and the goal line 20 do not become detached. The goal line 20 and the crease 24 are adapted to be detachable when the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 is being dissembled. In one embodiment, each of the goal line 20 and crease 24 comprise a support point 30 in an aligned arrangement which assists in maintaining the coupling of the goal line 20 and the crease 24 at the crease intersection 14.

As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 2, the support point 30 is configured to be a grommet which provides an opening to receive a stake, peg or the like. The grommet 30 of both the crease 24 and the goal line 20 are intended to be aligned so that the same stake can be driven through the grommet 30 of both the crease 24 and the goal line 20. Aligning the grommets 30 of both the crease 24 and the goal line 20 allows the crease 24 and goal line 20 to be properly aligned so that the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 can be properly assembled.

In some embodiments, the goal line 20 and crease 24 can also comprise a coupling pad 36. The coupling pad 36, of the crease 24 and the goal line 20, is proximate the respective support point 30 and are adapted to assist in maintaining the coupling of the goal line 20 and the crease 24 at the crease intersection 14. The coupling pads 36 of the goal line 20 and the crease 24 are configured to be coupled to each other so as to ensure that the goal line 20 and crease 24 remain coupled to each other. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the coupling pad 36 of the goal line 20 and the crease 24 are each in the form of a hook-and-loop fastener. The coupling pad 36 can be arranged many different ways and is not intended to be limited to be a hook-and-loop fastener. In some embodiments, the coupling pad 36 can be a snap fastener, buttons, laces, zipper, buckles or the like.

An advantage of the invention is that the crease intersection 14 can ease the assembly of the lacrosse layout apparatus 10. The support point 30 of the crease 24 and the goal line 20 are intended to be aligned, and since the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 only has two crease intersections 14, the support point 30 of the crease 24 and the goal line 20 that are to be aligned at the crease intersection 14 can be easily identified and aligned during assembly. A further advantage is that the goal line 20 and the crease 24 can each have a coupling pad 36 proximate their respective support point 30, which is also easily identifiable, thereby further ensuring that the goal line 20 and crease 24 will be properly aligned.

The arc 26, as shown in FIG. 1, is a semi-circular portion of a lacrosse layout that is in front of the goal. The arc 26 is configured in a manner similar to the crease 24. For example, the arc 26 comprises a support frame member 34 that is also adapted to be flexible such that the arc 26 can be bent or folded into a coil so that the arc 26 can be stored in a manner similar to the crease 24, as discussed above. The support frame member 34 can be comprised of one rod or a plurality of rods, similar to the crease 24. The arc 26 further comprises an arc cover 27, wherein the support frame member 34 is housed in the arc cover 27. Additionally, the arc 26 is arranged to maintain its positioning in a manner similar to the crease 24 and the goal line 20 discussed above, such that the arc cover 27 comprises a plurality of support points 30 which assist in maintaining the positioning of the arc 26. The plurality of support points 30 are positioned along the arc 26 such that the support points 30 maintain the arc 26 in a substantially semi-circular arrangement. The support points 30 of the arc 26 can also be in the form of grommets comprising an opening configured to receive a stake, peg or similar device that can be driven into the ground to hold the arc 26 to the ground. The support points 30 of the arc 26 can be arranged in many different ways and are not intended to be limited be in the form of a grommet.

The arc 26 further comprises a plurality of arc pockets 32 that are also arranged to assist in maintaining the position of the arc 26. The arc pockets 32 are configured to receive a weight such that the weight holds down the arc 26 and provides sufficient support so that the arc 26 remains in place. Removal of the weights from the arc pockets 32 allows the arc to be disassembled and stored for later use. The arc pockets 32 are arranged on the arc 26 such that the spacing between each arc pocket 32 is the same for all the arc pockets 32. For example, the arc pockets 32 of FIG. 1 can be arranged to be spaced apart by 4 meters. However, the arc pockets 32 can be spaced apart at different distances, and is not intended to be limited to 4 meter spacing. Each arc pocket 32 further comprises a hash mark, such that the arc 26 provides the hash markings of a conventional arc of conventional lacrosse layout.

In one embodiment of the invention, the arc 26 and goal line 20 are arranged to be removably coupled to each other. The arc 26 and the goal line 20 are coupled to each other at the first and second ends 21, 22 of the goal line 20 such that the arc 26 is in a substantially semi-circular form. The arc 26 comprises a first arc end 18 and a second arc end 19, wherein the first arc end 18 is coupled to the first end 21 of the goal line 20, and the second arc end 19 is coupled to the second end 22 of the goal line 20. The first and second ends 21, 22 of the goal line 20 and the first and second arc ends 18, 19 of the arc each comprise a support point 30 which assists in maintaining the coupling of the goal line 20 and the arc 26 at the respective ends. In the embodiment of FIG. 1a, the support point 30 of the goal line 20 and the arc 26 are grommets having an opening to receive a stake, peg or the like, wherein the stake is driven into the ground and couples the respective ends of the goal line 20 and arc 26. Removal of the stake from the grommets allows the arc 26 and goal line 20 to be disassembled and stored for later use. The support point 30 of the first and second ends 21, 22 of the goal line 20 are arranged to be aligned with the support point of the first and second arc ends 18, 19 of the arc 26, respectively, such that the goal line 20 and the arc 26 are removably coupled at the support points 30 of the respective ends. An advantage of aligning the support points 30 is that the same stake can be driven through both support points 30 of the respective ends of the goal line 20 and arc 26, thereby securely coupling the respective ends of the arc 26 and the goal line 20. The support point 30 is arranged to provide support to assist in maintaining the shape of the intersection region of the goal line 20 and the arc 26. The support point 30 at the ends of the goal line 20 and arc 26 can be arranged many different ways and are not intended to be limited to a grommet that receives a stake. In other embodiments, the support points 30 can be comprised of weights that attach to and hold down the respective ends of the goal line 20 and arc 26. Removal of the weights allows the arc 26 and the goal line 20 to be disassembled and stored for later use.

In another embodiment of the invention, the respective ends of the arc 26 and goal line 20 are removably coupled to a respective weight plate 40. The weight plate 40 comprises a plurality of coupling pads 36 on a top surface 41 and a plurality of extensions 44 extending from a bottom surface 43 of the weight plate 40. The plurality of coupling pads 36 on the top surface 41 are arranged to receive the ends of the arc 26 and the goal line 20. Each of the ends of the arc 26 and the goal line 20 can further comprise a coupling pad 26 proximate the support point 30, such that the first ends of the goal line 20 and the arc 26 are removably coupled to one weight plate 40 at a respective coupling pad 36, and the second ends of the goal line 20 and the arc 26 are removably coupled to another weight plate 40 at other respective coupling pads 36. The extensions of the weight plate 40 contact the surface upon which the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 is on and are arranged to prevent or limit the movement of the weight plate 40 on the surface so as to assist in maintaining the shape of the arc 26 and goal line 20. The extensions 44 can be formed of many different materials, such as but not limited to rubber, plastic, polymers or a combination thereof. The extensions 44 can be mounted to the weight plate 40 using a variety of different methods. In one embodiment, the weight plate 40 can comprise a threaded hole to receive a threaded screw from the extension 44. While in other embodiments, the extension 44 can be riveted onto the weight plate 40, attached using a nut and bolt, glued on, integral to the weight plate 40 or the like. In other embodiments, the weight plate 40 can further comprise at least one slot 42 configured to receive a stake, pin, peg or the like, in order to secure the weight plate 40 to the surface on which the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 is on. The at least one slot allows a stake to be driven into the ground to hold the weight plate 40 to the ground, and provide support to assist in maintaining the shape of the lacrosse layout apparatus 10. Removal of the stake from the at least one slot allows the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 to be disassembled and stored for later use. The at least one slot 42 of the weight plate 40 is similarly configured to the grommets disclosed herein. The embodiment of FIGS. 1b and 1c disclose that the weight plate 40 comprises a plurality of slots 42 wherein each slot is proximate an extension 44. The at least one slot 42 can be arranged in many different configurations and is not intended to be limited to the embodiments disclosed herein.

As shown in FIG. 1b, the second end 22 of the goal line 20 and the second arc end 19 of the arc 26 each comprise a coupling pad 36 that is arranged to couple the second end 22 and the second arc end 19 to the weight plate 40. The first end 21 of the goal line 20 and the first arc end 18 of the arc 26 are configured similarly to the second end 22 and the second arc end 19. The weight plates 40 that receive the ends of the arc 26 and the goal line 20 are both similarly configured, such that either weight plate 40 can be used to receive either the first ends or the second ends of the arc 26 and the goal line 20.

The plurality of coupling pads 36 on the top surface of the weight plate 40 are arranged such that a pair of coupling pads is linearly aligned and at least one coupling pad is arranged perpendicularly to the linearly aligned coupling pads. The embodiment of FIG. 1b discloses that the weight plate comprises three coupling pads 36, wherein two are linearly aligned and the other is arranged perpendicularly to the linearly aligned coupling pads. The coupling pads 36 on the top surface 41 can be arranged in many different ways and is not intended to be limited to the embodiments disclosed herein. For example, in other embodiments, the coupling pads 36 on the top surface 41 could be comprised of two coupling pads 36, wherein one coupling pad 36 runs along the length of the top surface 41, instead of being arranged as a pair of linearly aligned coupling pads, while the other coupling pad 36 is arranged perpendicularly to the coupling pad 36 that runs along the length of the top surface 41. In yet other embodiments, the weight plate 40 can comprise a coupling pad 36 arranged to substantially cover the top surface 41 of the weight plate 40, such that the ends of the arc 26 and goal line 20 can be coupled to the weight plate 40 at any point of the coupling pad 36 on the top surface 41. This configuration allows the weight plate 40 to be placed on the surface in any arrangement, so long as the weight plate can receive the ends of the goal line 20 and the arc 26, due to the coupling pad 26 substantially covering the top surface 41.

The coupling pads 36 of the arc 26, goal line 20 and weight plate 40 are adapted to assist in maintaining the positioning of the goal line 20 and the arc 26. The coupling pads 36 of the goal line 20 and the arc 26 are configured to be coupled to a respective coupling pad 36 of the weight plate 40 so as to ensure that the goal line 20 and arc 26 remain coupled to the weight plate 40, while allowing the goal line 20 and the arc 26 to be removed upon disassembly of the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 and stored for later use. In the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the coupling pad 36 of the goal line 20, arc 26 and weigh plate 40 are each in the form of a hook-and-loop fastener. The coupling pads 36 can be arranged many different ways and are not intended to be limited to be a hook-and-loop fastener. In other embodiments, the coupling pads 36 can be a snap fastener, buttons, laces, zipper, buckles or the like. As further shown in FIG. 1b, the linearly aligned coupling pads 36 are arranged to receive the ends of the goal line 20, while the coupling pad arranged perpendicularly to the linearly aligned coupling pads 36 is arranged to receive the ends of the arc 26. The weight plate 40 shown in FIG. 1b is to be placed on the surface so that the coupling pads 36 are properly aligned so as to properly receive the goal line 20 and the arc 26.

An advantage of the invention is that the weight plates 40 can be used on a surface or field that does not allow the respective ends of the goal line 20 and arc 26 to be coupled together using a stake, peg or the like. For example, using a stake on a field surface such as but not limited to concrete or wood is not feasible because the stake could not likely penetrate a concrete surface, and if the stake did penetrate the concrete surface, such concrete surface would be damaged; a wood surface would also likely be damaged by driving a stake through the wood surface. Another advantage of the invention is that the weight plate 40 can also be used on a surface when driving a stake into the surface would not provide the requisite support to hold the goal line 20 and arc 26 in place, such as but not limited to sand, snow, wet soil, loose soil or the like.

The diagonals 28 are arranged to be removably coupled to the arc 26 and to the crease 24 and goal line 20 at the crease intersection 14, such that the diagonals extend between the arc 26 and the crease intersection 14. As shown in FIG. 1, the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 is comprised of two diagonals 28, wherein each diagonal 28 is removably coupled to a respective crease intersection 14 and to a respective arc intersection 16. The arc intersection 16 is the area wherein the respective diagonals 28 and arc 26 are coupled. The crease intersections 14 are further arranged such that the crease 24, goal line 20 and each diagonal 28 are securely coupled to each other in such a manner so that the goal line 20, crease 24 and diagonals 28 do not become detached. The goal line 20, crease and diagonals 28 are adapted to be detachable when the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 is being dissembled. In one embodiment, each of the goal line 20, crease 24 and diagonal 28 comprise a support point 30 which assists in maintaining the coupling of the goal line 20, crease 24 and diagonal 28 at the crease intersection 14.

With reference to FIG. 2, the support point 30 of the diagonal 28 is configured to be a grommet which provides an opening to receive a stake, pin, peg or the like, similar to the support points 30 of the goal line 20 and crease 24 discussed above. The grommets of the goal line 20, crease 24 and diagonals 28 are arranged to be aligned so that the same stake can be driven through the grommet of the goal line 20, crease 24 and diagonals 28. Aligning the grommet of the goal line 20, crease 24 and diagonals 28 allows the goal line 20, crease 24 and diagonals 28 to be properly aligned so that the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 can be properly assembled.

In some embodiments, the diagonals 28 can further comprise a coupling pad 36, similar to the coupling pad 36 of the goal line 20 and crease 24 at crease intersection 14 discussed above. The coupling pad 36 of the diagonals 28 is proximate the support point 30 and is adapted to assist in maintaining the coupling of the goal line 20, crease 24 and diagonals 28 at the crease intersection 14. The coupling pad 36 of the diagonals 28 are configured to be removably coupled to either the crease 24 or the goal line 20. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 is arranged such that the goal line 20 is disposed on the crease 24, and the diagonal 28 is on and coupled to the goal line 20. The coupling pad 36 of the goal line 20 that receives the coupling pad 36 of the diagonal 28 is specifically arranged such that coupling the diagonal 28 to the goal line 20 aligns the diagonal 28 at an angle required to properly assemble the lacrosse layout apparatus 10. The goal line 20, of FIG. 2, comprises a plurality of coupling pads 36 on opposite surfaces of the goal line 20, wherein one coupling pad is coupled to the coupling pad of the crease 24, and the coupling pad on the opposite surface is coupled to the coupling pad 36 of the diagonal 28. An advantage of the invention is that the specifically arranged coupling pad 36 of the goal line 20 is set at a specific angle which eases the assembly of the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 such that the diagonals 28 will be properly aligned when coupled to the goal line 20.

The embodiment of FIG. 2 discloses that the goal line is interposed between the crease 24 and the diagonal 28. However, in other embodiments, the crease 24 can be interposed between the goal line 20 and the diagonal 28. In such embodiment, the crease 24 would comprise a plurality of coupling pads 36 on opposite surfaces of the crease 24, in a manner similar to the goal line 20.

The diagonal 28 can be removably coupled to the arc 26 similarly as the diagonal 28 is removably coupled to the crease 24 and goal line 20. FIG. 3 discloses an embodiment wherein the diagonal is coupled to the arc 26. The arc 26 and diagonals 28 can comprise a support point 30 and/ or coupling pads 36, such that the diagonal 28 and the arc 26 are coupled to each other, in a manner similar to the diagonal 28 being coupled to the goal line 20 and crease 24 discussed above. The embodiment of FIG. 3 discloses that the arc 26 is on the diagonal 28. However, in other embodiments, the arc 26 and diagonals 28 can be configured such that the diagonals 28 are on the arc 26.

In one embodiment, the diagonals 28 can be formed of a flexible material that can be rolled up and stored. While in other embodiments, the diagonals 28 comprise a frame 31 housed within a diagonal cover 29. The frame 31 is adapted to be flexible such that the diagonals 28 can be bent or folded into a coil so that the diagonals 28 can be stored in a manner similar to the crease 24 and arc 26, discussed above. The frame 31 can be comprised of one rod or a plurality of rods, wherein the rods assist in maintaining the diagonals 28 in a substantially straight shape. Additionally, the diagonals 28 are further arranged to maintain its positioning in a manner similar to the crease 24 and the goal line 20 discussed above, such that the diagonal covers 29 each comprise a plurality of support points 30 which assist in maintaining the positioning of the respective diagonals 28. The plurality of support points 30 are positioned along the diagonals 28 such that the support points 30 ensure that the diagonals 28 maintain an arrangement of extending between the crease intersection 14 and the arc intersection 16. The support points 30 of the diagonals 28 can be in the form of grommets comprising an opening configured to receive a stake, peg or similar device that can be driven into the surface to hold the diagonals 28 to the surface. The support points 30 of the diagonals 28 can be arranged in many different ways and are not intended to be limited be in the form of a grommet. In yet other embodiments, the support points 30 can be comprised of pockets or openings within the diagonals 28, wherein a weight can be placed in the pockets or openings. Placing the weights in the pocket of the diagonals 38 provide sufficient support so that the diagonals 28 remains in place.

The arc 26 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, is arranged such that the arc cover 27 is modified for different portions of the arc 26. For example, the portion of the arc cover 27 between the arc intersection 16 and the first and second arc ends 18, 19 of the arc 26 is configured to be a different color than the color of the arc cover 27 between the arc intersections 16 and in front of the crease 24. This allows the portion of the arc cover 27 between the arc intersection 16 and the first and second arc ends 18, 19 to be camouflaged, blend into and/or distinct from the surface that the lacrosse layout apparatus 10 is on. The portion of the arc cover 27 between the arc intersections 16, the diagonals 28, and the crease 24 can be arranged to be the same color, but different than the color of the arc cover 27 between the arc intersections 16 and the first and second arc ends 18, 19. An advantage of using the same color for the arc cover 27 between the arc intersections 16, the diagonals 28, and the crease 24 is that the lacrosse apparatus layout 10 can be easily visible when fully assembled and/or when in use.

Although the invention has been described in considerable detail with reference to certain configurations thereof, other versions are possible. Lacrosse layout apparatuses according to the invention can be many different sizes and can be used for many different applications, other than for lacrosse-related activities. The crease 24 and arc 26 can be arranged such that the support frame member 34 can be disassembled and stored as a collection of individual parts, instead of being coiled up. In other embodiments, the goal line 20, crease 24, arc 26 and/or the diagonals 28 can be adjustable to alter the dimensions of the lacrosse layout apparatus 10. The invention allows for the components of the lacrosse layout apparatus to be securely coupled to other components, while yet being allowed to be disassembled so that the lacrosse layout apparatus can be stored for later use. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the invention should not be limited to the versions described above.

Claims

1. A lacrosse layout apparatus, comprising:

a goal line comprising a first end, a second end and a plurality of support points, wherein each of said first end and said second end comprise a support point;

a crease adapted to be removably coupled to said goal line;

an arc comprising a first arc end and a second arc end, wherein said arc is adapted to be removably coupled to said goal line at said first end and at said second end; and

at least one diagonal arranged to extend between said crease and said arc, wherein said at least one diagonal is adapted to be removably coupled to said arc and at least said goal line.

2. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 1, said crease comprising a plurality of support points, wherein at least one support point of said crease is adapted to be aligned with at least one support point of said goal line, such that said crease and said goal line are removably coupled about the respectively aligned at least one support points.

3. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 1, said arc comprising a plurality of support points, wherein each of said first arc end and said second arc end comprise a support point.

4. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 3, wherein said support point of said first and second ends of said goal line arranged to be aligned with said support point of said first and second arc ends, respectively, such that said goal line and said arc are removably coupled at said support points of the respective first and second ends.

5. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 1, said crease further comprising:

a crease cover; and

a support frame member comprised of at least one rod and housed within said crease cover, wherein said crease is adapted to be coiled so as to reduce the shape of said crease.

6. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 1, said arc further comprising:

an arc cover; and

a support frame member comprised of at least one road and housed within said arc cover, wherein said arc is adapted to be coiled so as to reduce the shape of said arc.

7. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 1, said at least one diagonal comprising a plurality of support points, wherein one of said plurality of support points of said diagonal is aligned with a support point on said arc, such that said diagonal is removably coupled at said support point on said arc.

8. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 7, wherein another of said plurality of support points of said diagonal is aligned with one of said plurality of support points of said goal line and further aligned with a support point on said crease, such that said diagonal, goal line, and said crease are removably coupled about the respectively aligned support points.

9. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 8, wherein said diagonal and said arc further comprise a coupling pad proximate the aligned support points where said diagonal is removably coupled to said arc, wherein said diagonal, said goal line and said crease further comprise a coupling pad proximate the respectively aligned support points.

10. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 8, wherein each of said support points is a grommet adapted to receive a stake, and each of said coupling pads are a hook and loop fastener.

11. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 8, wherein at least one of said goal line or said crease receives said at least one diagonal and configured to properly align said at least one diagonal.

12. A lacrosse layout apparatus, comprising:

a plurality of weight plates;

a goal line comprising a first end and a second end, wherein said first end is removably coupled to a first weight plate and said second end is removably coupled to a second weight plate;

a crease adapted to be removably coupled to at least said goal line, wherein said crease is arranged between said first end and said second end such that said goal line intersects said crease at two points along said crease;

an arc comprising a first arc end and a second arc end, wherein said first arc end is removably coupled to said first weight plate and said second arc end is removably coupled to said second weight plate; and

at least one diagonal adapted to be removably coupled to said arc and at least said goal line.

13. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 12, wherein each of said first and second weight plates further comprising:

at least one coupling pad on a top surface; and

at least one extension extending from a bottom surface;

wherein said at least one coupling pad of said first and second weight plates arranged to receive a respective end of said goal line and a respective arc end of said arc.

14. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 13, wherein each of said first and second end of said goal line comprise a coupling pad, such that said coupling pad of said first and second end of said goal line are removably coupled to a corresponding coupling pad on each of said first and second weight plate.

15. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 13, wherein each of said first and second arc ends of said arc comprise a coupling pad, such that said coupling pad of said first and second arc end of said arc are removably coupled to a corresponding coupling pad on each of said first and second weight plate.

16. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 12, wherein said crease and said goal line each comprise a support point and a coupling pad at said two points, such that said crease and said goal line are removably coupled at said two points.

17. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 12, said crease further comprising:

a crease cover; and

a support frame member comprised of at least one rod and housed within said crease cover, wherein said crease is adapted to be coiled so as to reduce the shape of said crease.

18. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 12, said arc further comprising:

an arc cover;

a support frame member comprised of at least one road and housed within said arc cover, wherein said arc is adapted to be coiled so as to reduce the shape of said arc; and

a plurality of arc pockets configured to receive a weight to maintain the positioning of said arc, each of said arc pockets arranged such that that the spacing between each of said arc pockets is the same, each of said arc pockets further comprising a hash mark.

19. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 12, wherein said at least one diagonal comprises a plurality of support points, wherein one of said plurality of support points of said diagonal is aligned with a support point on said arc, such that said diagonal is removably coupled at said support point on said arc.

20. The lacrosse layout apparatus of claim 12, wherein said at least one diagonal is removably coupled to said goal line at one of said two points where said goal line intersects said crease, such that said diagonal is also removably coupled to said crease.