PLAYER PROTECTION DEVICE WITH CHANGEABLE DESIGN PLATES

Abstract

A player protection device for protecting at least a portion of a player. The protection device comprises a protective surface configured to protect at least a portion of a body part of the player. The protection device also comprises a shield insert configured to be removably attached to the protective surface. The protective surface is configured to receive the shield insert and retain the shield insert thereon.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM AND CROSS-REFERENCE

The present application claims priority to prior U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 62/429,318, and 62/456,795, filed on Dec. 2, 2016, and Feb. 9, 2017, correspondingly, and incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

Players in many sports wear protection devices to minimize or prevent injury during game play. Player protection devices take many shapes and forms and protect different parts of a player's anatomy. There are protection devices for the head, back, chest, elbow, shin, wrist, foot, and other parts of the human body.

Players may have a choice of different colors and/or patterns for the protection devices. The color and/or pattern of a particular protection device is determined at the time of production and the player has a limited selection of colors and/or patterns from which to choose.

In many instances, a player purchases a protection device with a particular color and/or pattern in order to match or be similar with other players on a same team. For example, all the players on a particular baseball team agree to purchase the same color shin, foot, and elbow guards in order to project a common team image. If, after purchasing a particular protection device, a player needs to change the particular color or design, e.g., due to a change in team, the player must purchase another protection device having the new particular color or design. This increases expense for the player.

Additionally, in other scenarios, a particular player engages in play for more than one team or in more than one sport and wishes to reuse the same protection device(s) for the different teams or sports. In this case, unless the colors or designs match the different team or sport colors, the player has to purchase one or more additional protection devices. This also increases expense for the player.

Further still, fashion changes over time and colors, patterns, and/or designs fall in and out of favor. Player costs increase by having to purchase new protection devices for each change of fashion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying figures. It is noted that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shin guard and a foot guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a left, rear, perspective view of the shin guard and foot guard of FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the shin guard and foot guard of FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a front plan view of the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 7 is a rear plan view of the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a side plan view of the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a cross-section view of the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 10 is a detail cross-section view of a retainer portion of the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 11 is a detail cross-section view of a shield retainer portion of the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 12 is a plan view of a shield insert for the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 13 is a side plan view of the shield insert for the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a foot guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view of the foot guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 16 is a front plan view of the foot guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 17 is a side plan view of the foot guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 18 is a cross-section view of the foot guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 19 is a detail cross-section view of a shield retainer portion of the foot guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 20 is a plan view of a shield insert for the foot guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 21 is a side plan view of the shield insert for the foot guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 23 is a left, rear perspective view of the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 24 is a front plan view of the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 25 is a rear plan view of the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 26 is a right-side plan view of the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 27 is a cross-section view of the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 28 is a detail cross-section view of a shield retainer portion of the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 29 is a detail cross-section view of a retainer portion of the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 30 is a plan view of a shield insert for the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 31 is a side plan view of the shield insert for the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 32 is a plan view of another shield insert for the foot guard and another shield insert for the shin guard, in accordance with embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following disclosure provides many different embodiments, or examples, for implementing different features of the provided subject matter. Specific examples of components, values, operations, materials, arrangements, or the like, are described below to simplify the present disclosure. These are, of course, merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. Other components, values, operations, materials, arrangements, or the like, are contemplated. For example, the formation of a first feature over or on a second feature in the description that follows may include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact, and may also include embodiments in which additional features may be formed between the first and second features, such that the first and second features may not be in direct contact. In addition, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and/or configurations discussed.

Further, spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. The spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. The apparatus may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein may likewise be interpreted accordingly.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a player protection device 100 comprising a shin guard 102 and a foot guard 104, in accordance with some embodiments. Player protection device 100 is for protecting at least a portion of a player. In at least some embodiments, player protection device protects a shin, foot, elbow, knee, arm, leg, thigh, or other similar body part. In at least some embodiments, player protection device 100 comprises both shin guard 102 and foot guard 104. In at least some embodiments, player protection device 100 comprises one of either shin guard 102 or foot guard 104.

Shin guard 102 comprises a protective surface 106 configured to protect at least a portion of the body part of the player, i.e., the shin. Shin guard 102 also comprises a shield insert 108 configured to be removably attached to the protective surface 106. The protective surface 106 is configured to receive the shield insert 108 and retain the shield insert 108 thereon. Shield insert 108 is configured to be removably attached/detached without the use of tools.

Similarly, foot guard 104 also comprises a protective surface 110 (also referred to as secondary protective surface) and a shield insert 112 (also referred to as a secondary shield insert). In at least the FIG. 1 embodiment, foot guard 104 is removably attached with shin guard 102. Shield insert 112 is also configured to be removably attached/detached without the use of tools.

Returning to shin guard 102, shield insert 108 comprises several tabs along the periphery of the shield insert. In particular, shield insert 108 comprises four tabs arranged in two pairs on opposite sides of the shield insert. Two of the four tabs 114a and 114b (collectively referred to as tabs 114) are indicated in FIG. 1. Tabs 114a and 114b are best seen in FIG. 2. Two additional tabs are located on an opposite edge of the periphery of shield insert 108. In at least some embodiments, shield insert 108 comprises a larger or smaller number of tabs along the periphery. In at least some embodiments, shield insert 108 comprises at least one tab along a periphery of the shield insert.

In at least some embodiments, shield insert 108 comprises four tabs, wherein the four tabs are arranged as two opposing pairs of tabs along opposite peripheral edges of the shield insert. In at least some embodiments, at least two of the four tabs of shield insert 108 are spaced apart in a linear manner along a peripheral edge of the shield insert.

In at least some embodiments, the tabs of shield insert 108 are planar extensions of shield insert 108 which extend parallel to the surface of the shield insert.

Protective surface 106 comprises several receptacles along the periphery of the protective surface. Each of the receptacles is configured to receive a tab from shield insert 108. In at least some embodiments, each receptacle is a slot formed in a portion of protective surface 106. In at least some embodiments, each receptacle is a slot formed in a raised portion of a peripheral edge of protective surface 106. In particular, protective surface 106 comprises two receptacles arranged in two pairs on opposite sides of the protective surface. Two of the four receptacles 116a and 116b (collectively referred to as receptacles 116) are indicated in FIG. 1. Receptacles 116a and 116b are best seen in FIG. 2. Two additional receptacles are located on an opposite edge of the periphery of protective surface 106. In at least some embodiments, protective surface 106 comprises a larger or smaller number of tabs along the periphery. In at least some embodiments, protective surface 106 comprises at least one receptacle along the periphery of the protective surface.

In at least some embodiments, protective surface 106 comprises four receptacles 116, wherein the four receptacles are arranged as two opposing pairs of receptacles along opposite peripheral edges of the protective surface. In at least some embodiments, at least two of the four receptacles of protective surface 106 are spaced apart in a linear manner along the peripheral edge of the protective surface.

In at least some embodiments, the tabs 114 on shield insert 108 have differing sizes and/or shapes. Similarly, corresponding receptacles 116 on protective surface 106 have differing sizes and/or shapes.

Shield insert 108 also comprises at least one resiliently deformable tab 118. In at least one embodiment, shield insert 108 comprises at least two resiliently deformable tabs 118. In an embodiment having two deformable tabs 118, the two deformable tabs are positioned on opposite edges of shield insert 108. In at least some embodiments, shield insert 108 comprises more than two resiliently deformable tabs 118. The resiliently deformable tab 118 is made up of two linearly-spaced, opposing, resiliently deformable tab portions. In at least one embodiment, the resiliently deformable tab 118 is made up of a single resiliently deformable tab portion. Resiliently deformable tab 118 is deformable in a parallel plane to the surface of shield insert 108.

Protective surface 106 comprises at least one opening 120 along the periphery of the protective surface. Opening 120 is configured to receive deformable tab 118 from shield insert 108 and retain the deformable tab 118. In at least some embodiments, opening 120 comprises two openings, each one of which is aligned with one of the resiliently deformable tab portions.

The deformable tab 118 is configured such that, during insertion of the deformable tab 118 into opening 120, the resiliently deformable tab portions are urged toward each other by contact with edges of the opening formed in the protective surface 106. A user installing shield insert 108 onto protective surface 106 need only insert tabs 114a/b into receptacles 116a/b and guide deformable tab 118 into opening 120 in order to install the shield insert. The process is reversed in order to remove shield insert 108, i.e., the portions of deformable tab 118 are pressed toward each other and removed from opening 120 and the tabs 114a/b are removed from receptacles 116a/b.

In accordance with an embodiment that does not have a deformable tab 118, the installation of shield insert 108 onto protective surface 106 only requires the insertion of tabs 114a/b into receptacles 116a/b. In order to remove shield insert 108 from protective surface 106, the process is reversed and tabs 114a/b are removed from receptacles 116a/b. In accordance with an embodiment lacking tabs 114 a/b and receptacles 116a/b, the installation of shield insert 108 onto protective surface 106 only requires the insertion of deformable tab 118 into opening 120.

In at least one embodiment, shin guard 102 comprises shield insert 108 having at least one tab along the periphery of the shield insert and at least one resiliently deformable tab along a periphery of the shield insert, as well. In this embodiment, protective surface 106 has formed therein at least one receptacle configured to receive the at least one tab of the shield insert 108 and also has formed therein at least one opening configured to receive the at least one resiliently deformable tab.

In at least one embodiment, shield insert 108 comprises at least four tabs 114 and at least two resiliently deformable tabs 118.

In one or more embodiments, the protective surface 106 is at least one of a foot guard, a shin guard, knee guard, an elbow guard, or other similar protection for a body part. In at least one embodiment, protective surface 106 is substantially U-shaped in cross-section. In at least another embodiment, protective surface 106 is substantially curved in cross-section. In one or more embodiments, protective surface 106 is curved in order to match the exterior shape of a body part. In at least one embodiment, protective surface 106 comprises a padding material attached to a rear of the protective surface and arranged to contact a player body part. In at least one embodiment, protective surface 106 includes the padding material as an integrated part of the protective surface.

In at least one embodiment, shield insert 108 is generally planar and made of a resiliently, flexible material. In at least one embodiment, shield insert 108 is flexed for insertion of tabs 114 and deformable tabs 118 into corresponding receptacles 116 and openings 120. Because shield insert 108 is resilient, the shield insert flexes to return to a planar condition and applies pressure at tabs 114 and 118 to receptacles 116 and openings 120 in order to further retain the shield insert in position on protective surface.

Returning to foot guard 104, similar to shin guard 102, shield insert 112 comprises a deformable tab 122. Deformable tab 122 is similar to deformable tab 118. Protective surface 110 of foot guard 104 comprises an opening 124 for receiving and retaining the deformable tab 122 therein. Opening 124 is similar to opening 120.

In the FIG. 1 embodiment, protective device 100 comprises a secondary protective surface 110 configured to protect at least another portion of a body part of the player, e.g., the foot. The secondary protective surface 110 is detachably fastened to the protective surface 106. For example, a strap or loop is usable to connect the protective surfaces 106 and 110 to each other. In at least one embodiment, a clip attached to secondary protective surface 110 is used to join the two protective surfaces together. In at least one embodiment, the secondary protective surface 110 is permanently affixed to protective surface 106.

The secondary shield insert 112 is configured to be removably attached to the secondary protective surface 110 in a similar manner as shield insert 108 and protective surface 106. The secondary protective surface 110 is configured to receive the secondary shield insert 112 and retain the secondary shield insert thereon. In at least one embodiment, secondary shield insert 112 comprises only resiliently deformable tab 122 for retention on secondary protective surface 110. In at least one embodiment, secondary shield insert 112 comprises only tabs similar to deformable tab 118 for retention on secondary protective surface 110.

In at least some embodiments, protective surfaces 106 and 110 further comprise padding material on a backside of the protective surfaces opposite the shield inserts 108 and 112. In at least one embodiment, protective surfaces 106 and 110 include the padding material as an integrated part of the protective surfaces.

Installation and removal of shield insert 112 from protective surface 110 is similar to the process for shield insert 108 and protective surface 106.

Shin guard 102 also comprises two or more retainer openings along a periphery of the protective surface. The retainer openings are used to retain shin guard 102 on a body part of a player. In the FIG. 1 embodiment, a pair of retainer openings 126a and 126b (collectively referred to as retainer openings 126) are positioned on one side of protective surface 106 and another pair of retainer openings (not shown) are positioned on an opposite side of the protective surface. Retainer openings 126 are spaced along a peripheral edge of shin guard 102.

In at least one embodiment, a strap connects between two retainer openings on opposite sides of shin guard 102. In at least one embodiment, the strap is an elastic material. In at least one embodiment, one end of the strap is permanently affixed to one side of shin guard 102 and releasably attached with a retainer opening on an opposite side of shin guard 102. In at least one embodiment, each end of the strap is releasably connected to an opposite side of the shin guard 102. In use, the strap connects behind a player body part from one side of the shin guard 102 to the other side. In at least some embodiments, there are at least two straps. In at least some embodiments, there are greater number of straps and retaining openings 126.

FIG. 2 is a left, rear, perspective view of the shin guard and foot guard of FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the shin guard and foot guard of FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a shin guard 402, in accordance with some embodiments. Shin guard 402 is similar to shin guard 102. Shin guard 402 comprises a protective surface 406 similar to protective surface 106. Shin guard 402 differs from shin guard 102 in that shin guard 402 lacks deformable tabs 118. Similar to shin guard 102, shin guard 402 comprises a pair of receptacles 416a and 416b (collectively referred to as receptacles 416) on one side of shin guard 402. Another pair of receptacles 416 are located on an opposite side of shin guard 402 from receptacles 416a and 416b. In at least some embodiments, receptacles 416 are formed in an edge of the periphery of protective surface 406.

Returning to shin guard 402, a shield insert 408 (not shown in FIG. 4; best viewed in FIG. 12) comprises several tabs along the periphery of the shield insert. In particular, shield insert 408 comprises four tabs arranged in two pairs on opposite sides of the shield insert. The location of two of the four tabs 414a and 414b (collectively referred to as tabs 414) are generally indicated in FIG. 1. Tabs 414a and 414b are best seen in FIG. 12. Two additional tabs are located on an opposite edge of the periphery of shield insert 408. In at least some embodiments, shield insert 408 comprises a larger or smaller number of tabs along the periphery. In at least some embodiments, shield insert 408 comprises at least one tab along a periphery of the shield insert.

In at least some embodiments, shield insert 408 comprises four tabs, wherein the four tabs are arranged as two opposing pairs of tabs along opposite peripheral edges of the shield insert. In at least some embodiments, at least two of the four tabs of shield insert 408 are spaced apart in a linear manner along a peripheral edge of the shield insert.

In at least some embodiments, the tabs of shield insert 408 are planar extensions of shield insert 408 which extend parallel to the surface of the shield insert.

Protective surface 406 comprises several receptacles along the periphery of the protective surface. Each of the receptacles is configured to receive a tab from shield insert 408. In at least some embodiments, each receptacle is a slot formed in a portion of protective surface 406. In at least some embodiments, each receptacle is a slot formed in a raised portion of a peripheral edge of protective surface 406. In particular, protective surface 406 comprises two receptacles arranged in two pairs on opposite sides of the protective surface. Two of the four receptacles 416a and 416b (collectively referred to as receptacles 416) are indicated in FIG. 4. Receptacles 416a and 416b are also seen in FIGS. 5-7. Two additional receptacles are located on an opposite edge of the periphery of protective surface 406. In at least some embodiments, protective surface 406 comprises a larger or smaller number of tabs along the periphery. In at least some embodiments, protective surface 406 comprises at least one receptacle along the periphery of the protective surface.

In at least some embodiments, protective surface 406 comprises four receptacles 416, wherein the four receptacles are arranged as two opposing pairs of receptacles along opposite peripheral edges of the protective surface. In at least some embodiments, at least two of the four receptacles of protective surface 406 are spaced apart in a linear manner along the peripheral edge of the protective surface.

In at least some embodiments, the tabs 414 on shield insert 408 have differing sizes and/or shapes. Similarly, corresponding receptacles 416 on protective surface 406 have differing sizes and/or shapes.

Shin guard 402 also comprises two or more retainer openings along a periphery of the protective surface. The retainer openings are used to retain shin guard 402 on a body part of a player. In the FIG. 4 embodiment, a pair of retainer openings 426a and 426b (collectively referred to as retainer openings 426) are positioned on one side of protective surface 406 and another pair of retainer openings (not shown) are positioned on an opposite side of the protective surface. Retainer openings 426 are spaced along a peripheral edge of shin guard 402.

In at least one embodiment, a strap connects between two retainer openings on opposite sides of shin guard 402. In at least one embodiment, the strap is an elastic material. In at least one embodiment, one end of the strap is permanently affixed to one side of shin guard 402 and releasably attached with a retainer opening on an opposite side of shin guard 402. In at least one embodiment, each end of the strap is releasably connected to an opposite side of the shin guard 402. In use, the strap connects behind a player body part from one side of the shin guard 402 to the other side. In at least some embodiments, there are at least two straps. In at least some embodiments, there are greater number of straps and retaining openings 426.

Additionally, shin guard 402 comprises an additional pair of receptacles 430a and 430b (collectively referred to as receptacles 430) on one side of shin guard 402. The pair of receptacles 430 on one side of shin guard 402 are spaced apart from each other in a vertical direction when the shin guard is viewed when attached to a player's shin. Another pair of receptacles 430 are located on an opposite side of shin guard 402 from receptacles 430a and 430b. In at least some embodiments, receptacles 430 are formed in an edge of the periphery of protective surface 406.

Receptacles 430 are similar to receptacles 416 and similar properties are not described herein for clarity. Similar to tabs 414, shield insert 408 (not shown in FIG. 4; best viewed in FIG. 12) comprises several additional tabs along the periphery of the shield insert. In particular, shield insert 408 comprises four additional tabs arranged in two pairs on opposite sides of the shield insert. The location of two of the four tabs, i.e., tabs 432a and 432b (collectively referred to as additional tabs 432) are generally indicated in FIG. 4. Tabs 432a and 432b are also seen in FIG. 12. Two additional tabs are located on an opposite edge of the periphery of shield insert 408. In at least some embodiments, shield insert 408 comprises a larger or smaller number of additional tabs along the periphery. In at least some embodiments, shield insert 408 comprises at least one additional tab along a periphery of the shield insert.

In at least some embodiments, shield insert 408 comprises four additional tabs, wherein the four additional tabs are arranged as two opposing pairs of additional tabs along opposite peripheral edges of the shield insert. In at least some embodiments, at least two of the four additional tabs of shield insert 408 are spaced apart in a linear manner along a peripheral edge of the shield insert.

In at least some embodiments, the additional tabs of shield insert 408 are planar extensions of shield insert 408 which extend parallel to the surface of the shield insert.

Protective surface 406 comprises several receptacles 430a along the periphery of the protective surface. Each of the receptacles is configured to receive an additional tab 432 from shield insert 408. In at least some embodiments, each receptacle 430 is a slot formed in a portion of protective surface 406. In at least some embodiments, each receptacle 430 is a slot formed in a raised portion of a peripheral edge of protective surface 406. In particular, protective surface 406 comprises two receptacles 430 arranged in two pairs on opposite sides of the protective surface. Two of the four receptacles 430a and 430b (collectively referred to as receptacles 430) are indicated in FIG. 4. Receptacles 430a and 430b are also seen in FIGS. 5-7. Two additional receptacles are located on an opposite edge of the periphery of protective surface 406. In at least some embodiments, protective surface 406 comprises a larger or smaller number of additional tabs along the periphery. In at least some embodiments, protective surface 406 comprises at least one receptacle along the periphery of the protective surface.

In at least some embodiments, protective surface 406 comprises four receptacles 430, wherein the four receptacles are arranged as two opposing pairs of receptacles along opposite peripheral edges of the protective surface. In at least some embodiments, at least two of the four receptacles of protective surface 406 are spaced apart in a linear manner along the peripheral edge of the protective surface.

In at least some embodiments, the additional tabs 432 on shield insert 408 have differing sizes and/or shapes. Similarly, corresponding receptacles 430 on protective surface 406 have differing sizes and/or shapes.

FIG. 5 is a left, rear perspective view of the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a front plan view of the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 7 is a rear plan view of the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments. As best seen in FIG. 7, a loop portion 702 of a hook and loop fastener mechanism is provided on an inner surface of protective surface 406. The loop portion 702 is usable to connect a foot guard to shin guard 402. In at least one embodiment, the foot guard has a corresponding hook portion to attached with loop portion 702. In at least some embodiments, another attachment mechanism is usable to releasably connect the foot guard with shin guard 402. In at least some embodiments, a strap and a receiving loop are used to connect the foot guard with shin guard 402. In at least some embodiments, a belt loop having a buckle is used to connect the foot guard with shin guard 402. In at least some embodiments, a snap fastener mechanism is used to connect the foot guard with shin guard 402. In at least some embodiments, the foot guard is permanently affixed with shin guard 402, e.g., by gluing, welding, bonding, or other similar connection mechanism.

FIG. 8 is a right-side plan view of the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a cross-section view of the shin guard through cross-section C-C′ of FIG. 6, in accordance with some embodiments. As viewed in cross-section, shin guard 402 has a generally U-shaped cross-section.

FIG. 10 is a detail cross-section view of a shield retainer portion of the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments. In particular, FIG. 10 depicts the slot corresponding to one of the pair of receptacles 430 for receiving and retaining an additional tab 432 (not shown).

FIG. 11 is a detail cross-section view of a retainer portion of the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments. In particular, FIG. 11 depicts the slot corresponding to one of the pair of retainer openings 426 for receiving a strap or other retention mechanism for retaining shin guard 402 on a player shin.

FIG. 12 is a plan view of a shield insert 408 for the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments. In particular, FIG. 12 depicts the tabs 414a and 414b and additional tabs 432a and 432b located along the periphery of shield insert 408. Shield insert 408 is depicted in a flat state prior to insertion into shin guard 402. As depicted shield insert 408 also comprises two additional tabs 1200 located at an upper and lower portion of shield insert 408 and along the centerline of the shield insert. Additional tabs 1200 aid in retention and positioning of shield insert 408 with respect to shin guard 402. In at least one embodiment, additional tabs 1200 extend away from shield insert 408 sufficiently far to slide under an edge of protective surface 406. In at least one embodiment, shield insert 408 lacks additional tabs 1200.

As depicted, shield insert 408 comprises a body portion that has at least one pair of tabs along a periphery of the body and arranged opposite each other. The body portion also has at least one secondary tab along a periphery of the body and arranged perpendicular to the at least one pair of tabs. In at least some embodiments, shield insert 408 has three pairs of tabs and at least one secondary tab is at least two tabs.

FIG. 13 is a side plan view of the shield insert for the shin guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a foot guard 1404, in accordance with some embodiments. Foot guard 1404 is similar to foot guard 104 (FIG. 1). Foot guard 1404 comprises a protective surface 1406 similar to protective surfaces 106, 110, and 406. Foot guard differs from foot guard 104 in that insert foot guard 1404 lacks deformable tabs 122. Similar to foot guard 104, foot guard 1404 comprises a pair of openings 1424 for receiving and retaining tabs 1420 (location generally indicated in FIG. 14; best shown in FIG. 20). Openings 1424 are located on opposite peripheral edges of foot guard 1404. Openings 1424 are similar to openings 124 of shin guard 104.

Foot guard also comprises an extending portion 1410 of protective surface 1406 which extends inward toward the center of the protective surface 1406 from a top edge thereof. Extending portion 1410 assists with retaining and positioning shield insert 1412 on protective surface 1406. In at least some embodiments, extending portion 1410 provides a location for attachment of a hook fastener to mate with loop fastener of the shin guard 402. In at least some embodiments, another portion of foot guard 1404 is used to attach the foot guard to the shin guard. Foot guard 1404 also comprises an additional opening 1414 at a bottom edge of protective surface 1406 for receiving and retaining an additional tab 1430 (location generally indicated in FIG. 14; best shown in FIG. 20). Additional opening 1414 is located on a bottom peripheral edge of foot guard 1404. Additional opening 1414 is similar to openings 1424.

FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view of the foot guard 1404, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 16 is a front plan view of the foot guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 17 is a side plan view of the foot guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 18 is a cross-section view of the foot guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 19 is a detail cross-section view of a shield retainer portion of the foot guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 20 is a plan view of shield insert 1412 for foot guard 1404, in accordance with some embodiments. As FIG. 20 depicts, a pair of tabs 1420 are located at opposite peripheral edges of shield insert 1412. In at least some embodiments, tabs 1420 are larger or smaller. In at least some embodiments, shield insert 1412 comprises more than one pair of tabs 1420. In at least some embodiments, shield insert 1412 comprises more than one additional tab 1430 along a bottom peripheral edge of the shield insert. In at least some embodiments, shield insert 1412 comprises an additional tab 1430 along a top peripheral edge of the shield insert. In at least some embodiments, additional tab 1430 is located along a vertical centerline of shield insert 1412.

In at least some embodiments, shield insert 1412 lacks extending portion 1428. In at least some embodiments, shield insert 1412 lacks additional tab 1430.

FIG. 21 is a side plan view of the shield insert for the foot guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an elbow guard 2202, in accordance with some embodiments. Elbow guard 2202 is similar to shin guard 102 and 402. Elbow guard 2202 is configured to at least partially surround and protect the elbow of a player. A shield insert 3008 (FIG. 30) is configured to fit onto and cover a face of elbow guard 2202. Shield insert 3008 is similar to shield insert 108, 112, 408, and 1412.

Elbow guard 2202 comprises a protective surface 2206 similar to protective surface 106. Elbow guard 2202 differs from shin guard 102 in that elbow guard 2202 lacks deformable tabs 118.

Similar to shin guard 102, elbow guard 2202 comprises a pair of receptacles 2216a and 2216b (collectively referred to as receptacles 2216) on one side of elbow guard 2202. Another pair of receptacles 2216 are located on an opposite side of elbow guard 2202 from receptacles 2216a and 2216b. In at least some embodiments, receptacles 2216 are formed in an edge of the periphery of protective surface 2206.

Returning to elbow guard 2202, a shield insert 3008 (not shown in FIG. 22; best viewed in FIG. 30) comprises several tabs along the periphery of the shield insert. In particular, shield insert 3008 comprises four tabs arranged in two pairs on opposite sides of the shield insert. The location of two of the four tabs 3014a and 3014b (collectively referred to as tabs 3014) are generally indicated in FIG. 22. Tabs 3014a and 3014b are best seen in FIG. 30. Two additional tabs are located on an opposite edge of the periphery of shield insert 3008. In at least some embodiments, shield insert 3008 comprises a larger or smaller number of tabs along the periphery. In at least some embodiments, shield insert 3008 comprises at least one tab along a periphery of the shield insert.

In at least some embodiments, shield insert 3008 comprises four tabs, wherein the four tabs are arranged as two opposing pairs of tabs along opposite peripheral edges of the shield insert. In at least some embodiments, at least two of the four tabs of shield insert 3008 are spaced apart in a linear manner along a peripheral edge of the shield insert.

In at least some embodiments, the tabs of shield insert 3008 are planar extensions of shield insert 3008 which extend parallel to the surface of the shield insert.

Protective surface 2206 comprises several receptacles along the periphery of the protective surface. Each of the receptacles is configured to receive a tab from shield insert 3008. In at least some embodiments, each receptacle is a slot formed in a portion of protective surface 2206. In at least some embodiments, each receptacle is a slot formed in a raised portion of a peripheral edge of protective surface 2206. In particular, protective surface 2206 comprises two receptacles arranged in two pairs on opposite sides of the protective surface. Two of the four receptacles 2216a and 2216b (collectively referred to as receptacles 2216) are indicated in FIG. 22. Receptacles 2216a and 2216b are also seen in FIGS. 23-25. Two additional receptacles are located on an opposite edge of the periphery of protective surface 2206. In at least some embodiments, protective surface 2206 comprises a larger or smaller number of tabs along the periphery. In at least some embodiments, protective surface 2206 comprises at least one receptacle along the periphery of the protective surface.

In at least some embodiments, protective surface 2206 comprises four receptacles 2216, wherein the four receptacles are arranged as two opposing pairs of receptacles along opposite peripheral edges of the protective surface. In at least some embodiments, at least two of the four receptacles of protective surface 2206 are spaced apart in a linear manner along the peripheral edge of the protective surface.

In at least some embodiments, the tabs 3014 on shield insert 2208 have differing sizes and/or shapes. Similarly, corresponding receptacles 2216 on protective surface 2206 have differing sizes and/or shapes.

Elbow guard 2202 also comprises two or more retainer openings along a periphery of the protective surface. The retainer openings are used to retain elbow guard 2202 on a body part of a player. In the FIG. 22 embodiment, a pair of retainer openings 2226a and 2226b (collectively referred to as retainer openings 2226) are positioned on one side of protective surface 2206 and another pair of retainer openings (not shown) are positioned on an opposite side of the protective surface. Retainer openings 2226 are spaced along a peripheral edge of elbow guard 2202.

In at least one embodiment, a strap connects between two retainer openings on opposite sides of elbow guard 2202. In at least one embodiment, the strap is an elastic material. In at least one embodiment, one end of the strap is permanently affixed to one side of elbow guard 2202 and releasably attached with a retainer opening on an opposite side of elbow guard 2202. In at least one embodiment, each end of the strap is releasably connected to an opposite side of the elbow guard 2202. In use, the strap connects behind a player body part from one side of elbow guard 2202 to the other side. In at least some embodiments, there are at least two straps. In at least some embodiments, there are greater number of straps and retaining openings 2226.

Elbow guard 2202 also comprises an extending portion 2210 of protective surface 2206 which extends inward toward the center of the protective surface 2206 from a top edge thereof. Extending portion 2210 assists with retaining and positioning shield insert 3008 on protective surface 2206. In at least some embodiments, extending portion 2210 comprises an opening configured to receive an additional tab 3002 of shield insert 3008.

Elbow guard 2202 also comprises an additional opening 2214 at a bottom edge of protective surface 2206 for receiving and retaining an additional tab 3002 (location generally indicated in FIG. 22; best shown in FIG. 30). Additional opening 2214 is located on a bottom peripheral edge of elbow guard 2202. Additional opening 2214 is similar to opening 1414.

FIG. 23 is a left, rear perspective view of the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 24 is a front plan view of the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 25 is a rear plan view of the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 26 is a right-side plan view of the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 27 is a cross-section view of the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 28 is a detail cross-section view of a shield retainer portion of the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 29 is a detail cross-section view of a retainer portion of the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 30 is a plan view of a shield insert for the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments. In particular, FIG. 30 depicts the tabs 3014a and 3014b located along the periphery of shield insert 3008. Shield insert 3008 is depicted in a flat state prior to insertion into elbow guard 2202.

As depicted, shield insert 3008 also comprises two additional tabs 3002 located at an upper and lower portion of shield insert 3008 and along the centerline of the shield insert. Additional tabs 3002 aid in retention and positioning of shield insert 3008 with respect to elbow guard 2202. In at least one embodiment, additional tabs 3002 extend away from shield insert 3008 sufficiently far to slide under an edge of protective surface 2206. In at least one embodiment, shield insert 3008 lacks additional tabs 3002.

FIG. 31 is a side plan view of the shield insert for the elbow guard, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 32 is a plan view of another shield insert 408′ for the foot guard and another shield insert 1412′ for the shin guard, in accordance with embodiments. Shield insert 408′ is similar to shield insert 408 (FIG. 12) and for clarity only differences will be discussed herein. In contrast with tabs 414a/b and 432a/b, tabs 414a′/b′ and 432a′/b′ have a different shape in the plan view. In particular, each of the tabs 414a′/b′ and 432a′/b′ have a hook shape with a notch on a lower edge extending away from shield insert 408′. Advantageously, having a notch on an edge of the tab increases an ability of the tab to be retained within the foot guard. The notch interacts with a portion of a retainer 426/430 opening to increase a difficulty of removal and/or increase a likelihood that the tab will catch on the retainer opening. For example, in some embodiments, this configuration decreases the likelihood of a shield insert inadvertently falling off the foot guard.

In some embodiments, the notch extends one third of the distance of the height of the tab. In some embodiments, the notch extends one tenth of the distance of the height of the tab. In some embodiments, the notch extends between 1/20^th and ½ the distance of the height of the tab. In some embodiments, the notch extends between 1/10^th and ¾ the distance of the height of the tab. In some embodiments, the notch is positioned on an upper edge of the tab extending away from shield insert 408′. In some embodiments, tabs 414a′/b′ have a notch on a lower edge and tabs 432a′/b′ have a notch on an upper edge. In some embodiments, tabs 414a′/b′ have a notch on an upper edge and tabs 432a′/b′ have a notch on a lower edge. In some embodiments, half of tabs 414a′/b′ have a notch on an upper edge and half have a notch on a lower edge. In some embodiments, half of tabs 432a′/b′ have a notch on an upper edge and half have a notch on a lower edge.

Shield insert 1412′ is similar to shield insert 1412 (FIG. 20) and for clarity only differences will be discussed herein. In contrast with tabs 1420, tabs 1420′ have a different shape in the plan view. In particular, each of the tabs 1420′ have a hook shape with a notch on a lower edge extending away from shield insert 1412′. Advantageously, having a notch on an edge of the tab increases an ability of the tab to be retained within the foot guard. The notch interacts with a portion of a retainer 1424 opening to increase a difficulty of removal and/or increase a likelihood that the tab will catch on the retainer opening. For example, in some embodiments, this configuration decreases the likelihood of a shield insert inadvertently falling off the shin guard.

In some embodiments, the notch extends one third of the distance of the height of the tab. In some embodiments, the notch extends one tenth of the distance of the height of the tab. In some embodiments, the notch extends between 1/20^th and ½ the distance of the height of the tab. In some embodiments, the notch extends between 1/10^th and ¾ the distance of the height of the tab. In some embodiments, the notch is positioned on an upper edge of the tab extending away from shield insert 1412′. In some embodiments, tabs 1420′ have a notch on a lower edge. In some embodiments, tabs 1420′ have a notch on an upper edge. In some embodiments, half of tabs 1420′ have a notch on an upper edge and half have a notch on a lower edge.

In some embodiments, the tab configuration for tabs 1420′ is usable in for the tabs 3014a/b of the shield insert 3008 for the elbow guard.

The interchangeable design of the present disclosure allows the player to swap out the design plates (inserts) to a color and/or design suiting the preference of the player at a reduced cost in comparison to replacing the entire protective gear. Advantageously, the inserts are swappable without the use of tools.

The shin, foot, and elbow guards of one or more embodiments of this disclosure house interchangeable design plates (also referred to herein as shield inserts) allowing a player/user to remove the design plate of a particular color or design and replace it with another design plate of another color or design.

In an embodiment according to the present disclosure, a player protection device for protecting at least a portion of a player comprises a protective surface configured to protect at least a portion of a body part of the player; and a shield insert configured to be removably attached to the protective surface, wherein the protective surface is configured to receive the shield insert and retain the shield insert thereon.

In an embodiment according to the present disclosure, a shield insert for a player protection device has a body. The body comprises at least one pair of tabs along a periphery of the body and arranged opposite each other; and at least one secondary tab along a periphery of the body and arranged perpendicular to the at least one pair of tabs.

In an embodiment according to the present disclosure, a method of using a player protection device comprises a protective surface configured to protect at least a portion of a body part of the player and a shield insert removably attached to the protective surface. The protective surface is configured to receive the shield insert and retain the shield insert thereon. The method comprises removing the shield insert from the protective surface; and installing another shield insert on the protective surface.

As may be used herein, the terms “substantially” and “approximately” provide an industry-accepted tolerance for its corresponding term and/or relativity between items. Such an industry-accepted tolerance ranges from less than one percent to fifty percent and corresponds to, but is not limited to, component values, process variations, temperature variations, rise and fall times, and/or thermal variations. Such relativity between items ranges from a difference of a few percent to magnitude differences. As may also be used herein, the term(s) “operably coupled to”, “coupled to”, and/or “coupling” includes direct coupling between items and/or indirect coupling between items via an intervening item (e.g., an item includes, but is not limited to, a component, an element, a circuit, and/or a module) where, for indirect coupling, the intervening item does not modify the information of a signal but may adjust its current level, voltage level, and/or power level. As may further be used herein, inferred coupling (i.e., where one element is coupled to another element by inference) includes direct and indirect coupling between two items in the same manner as “coupled to”.

The foregoing outlines features of several embodiments so that those skilled in the art may better understand the aspects of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that they may readily use the present disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures for carrying out the same purposes and/or achieving the same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. Those skilled in the art should also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that they may make various changes, substitutions, and alterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A player protection device for protecting at least a portion of a player, the protection device comprising:

a protective surface configured to protect at least a portion of a body part of the player the protective surface having a mechanism configured to secure the protective surface to the portion of the body part of the player; and

a shield insert configured to be removably attached to the protective surface and having at least one tab,

wherein

the protective surface has at least one receptacle configured to receive the at least one tab of the shield insert and retain the shield insert thereon, and

the shield insert is configured to be removably attached/detached at a state in which the mechanism secures the protective surface to the portion of the body part of the player.

2. The player protection device of claim 1, wherein the shield insert is configured to be removably attached/detached without use of tools.

3. The player protection device of claim 1, wherein the at least one tab of the shield insert is arranged along a periphery of the shield insert.

4. The player protection device of claim 3, wherein the protective surface comprises at least four receptacles.

5. The player protection device of claim 3, wherein the shield insert comprises at least four tabs.

6. The player protection device of claim 1, the shield insert comprising at least one resiliently deformable tab; and

the protective surface having formed therein at least one opening configured to receive the at least one resiliently deformable tab.

7. The player protection device of claim 6, wherein the at least one resiliently deformable tab is two linearly-spaced, opposing, resiliently deformable tabs, and wherein during insertion of the two linearly-spaced, opposing, resiliently deformable tabs into the opening of the protective surface, the resiliently deformable tabs are urged toward each other by contact with edges of the opening formed in the protective surface.

8. The player protection device of claim 1, the shield insert comprising: the protective surface having formed therein:

at least one tab along a periphery of the shield insert; and

at least one resiliently deformable tab along a periphery of the shield insert; and

at least one receptacle configured to receive the at least one tab; and

having formed therein at least one opening configured to receive the at least one resiliently deformable tab.

9. The player protection device of claim 8, wherein the shield insert comprises at least four tabs and at least two resiliently deformable tabs.

10. The player protection device of claim 1, wherein the protective surface is at least one of a foot guard, a shin guard, or an elbow guard.

11. The player protection device of claim 1, further comprising a secondary protective surface configured to protect at least another portion of a body part of the player, the secondary protective surface detachably fastened to the protective surface; and

a secondary shield insert configured to be removably attached to the secondary protective surface, wherein the secondary protective surface is configured to receive the secondary shield insert and retain the secondary shield insert thereon.

12. The player protection device of claim 11, wherein the shield insert comprises at least one tab along a periphery of the shield insert, and

wherein the secondary shield insert comprises at least one resiliently deformable tab along a periphery of the secondary shield insert.

13. The player protection device of claim 12, wherein the number of tabs is different from the number of resiliently deformable tabs.

14. The player protection device of claim 4, wherein the protective surface comprises four receptacles, wherein the four receptacles are arranged as two opposing pairs of receptacles along opposite peripheral edges of the protective surface.

15. The player protection device of claim 5, wherein the shield insert comprises four tabs, wherein the four tabs are arranged as two opposing pairs of tabs along opposite peripheral edges of the shield insert.

16. The player protection device of claim 1, wherein the protective surface is substantially U-shaped in cross-section.

17. The player protection device of claim 1, wherein the protective surface is substantially curved in cross-section.

18. A shield insert for a player protection device, the shield insert having a body, the body comprising:

at least one pair of tabs along a periphery of the body and arranged opposite each other; and

at least one secondary tab along a periphery of the body,

wherein an orientation of the at least one secondary tab is arranged perpendicular to an orientation of one tab of the at least one pair of tabs.

19. The shield insert of claim 18, wherein the at least one pair of tabs is three pairs of tabs; and

wherein the at least one secondary tab is at least two tabs.

20. A method of using a player protection device, the player protection device comprising a protective surface configured to protect at least a portion of a body part of the player and a shield insert removably attached to the protective surface, wherein the protective surface is configured to receive the shield insert and retain the shield insert thereon, the method comprising

removing the shield insert from the protective surface by removing at least a tab of the shield insert from a corresponding receptacle of the protective surface; and

installing another shield insert on the protective surface.