Closed-back Or Closed-bottom Pocket Patents (Class 273/400)
  • Patent number: 11801431
    Abstract: An athletic skill training apparatus includes a generally horizontal upper ring that defines an upper opening, preferably circular and the same diameter as a traditional basketball hoop, made from a strong, lightweight material. Three lower rings are attached to the upper ring and extend downwardly and inwardly to attach to a base plate. A shock absorbing base member is elastically suspended from the lower rings and absorbs a portion of the force from a ball shot through the upper ring. The base member includes vertically spaced concentric rings of different diameters to redirect the ball out of the lower rings. The rings, the shock absorbing base member and the base plate form a goal assembly that can be positioned on a support above a playing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2023
    Inventor: Lenard E. Walker, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11684837
    Abstract: A game goal includes a net and a support frame by which the net is supported. The support frame is articulated to collapse into a storage-ready state and expand into a play-ready state. The support frame is further selectively retained in the game-ready state by a snap fit on each of opposing sides thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2023
    Inventor: Francis J Reeves
  • Patent number: 11446558
    Abstract: A apparatus and method for operating the apparatus of the present invention provide for a game apparatus incorporating malleable tossing objects and a container wherein the container provides for the ability to have an insert wherein the insert may provide for at least one rigid geometric object on which the malleable tossing object will deflect if the throw of the malleable tossing object lacks precision, further the apparatus provides for an adult beverage theme, and a method for operating the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Inventor: M. Randall Pasternak
  • Patent number: 11077352
    Abstract: A tennis ball projecting machine including a support member, a rotatable wheel mounted on one side of the support member, a wheel motor on the other side of the support member, a curved rail below the wheel, a tennis ball hopper above the support member, a surface between the hopper and the machine having a feed opening where at least a portion of the feed opening is on the other side of the support member, and a rotatable body with one or more ball openings that periodically aligns with the feed opening to permit a tennis ball to pass through the feed opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2021
    Assignee: Sports Tutor, Inc.
    Inventor: William James Greene, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10994181
    Abstract: A batting ball is slidably mounted on a line having a low friction surface to provide proper swing technique and muscle memory. The line has an impact absorbing member having an impact end configured to contact a ball and a receiving chamber configured to receive a resilient member adapted to connect with a portion of a washer. A bushing having a helical portion with a central opening is inserted and affixed into a ball opening. An anchoring structure has a first end located opposite a second end. The anchoring structure has a central bore receiving a threaded portion of the first distal end of the line. The first opening and the second opening of the first end of the anchoring structure receives at least a portion of a tensioning element. A portion of the tensioning element is connected to a second attaching element being a swivel snap hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Inventor: Charles Steven Palardis
  • Patent number: 10918922
    Abstract: A basketball hoop arrangement includes three basketball backboards and hoops commonly connected to the upper end of a support structure. The backboards are arranged such that respective top and bottom edges thereof form triangles with respective front surfaces of the three basketball backboards facing outwards and respective rear surfaces of the three basketball backboards facing inwards. Each hoop is connected to a different one of the respective front surfaces and extends outwardly therefrom. A lower end of the support structure is configured to support the support structure and the three basketball backboards on an underlying surface. A basketball game is played by moving a basketball in a playing area extending around all of the at least three backboards, and scoring points by putting the basketball through any one of the at least three hoops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: Brego 360 Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Shane Brey, Anthony Gomez
  • Patent number: 10639530
    Abstract: A goal configured to both float and be used on water is disclosed. The goal comprises a base, a support structure, and a planar element. The base includes a top surface defining a base plane. The support structure has a pair of opposing arm portions coupled to the base. The planar element is coupled to and extends between the pair of opposing arms of the support structure, is disposed generally perpendicular to the base plane, and defines at least one generally circular main aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Assignee: Flambeau, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Zavracky
  • Patent number: 10197265
    Abstract: A light device for use on a flying disc entrapment device is described including a substantially ring-shaped structure and a first array including a plurality of light sources attached to the substantially ring-shaped structure. The light sources are directed toward a first side of the ring-shaped structure. The light device also includes a battery power source configured to provide power to the first array and a switch configured to control the illumination provided by the first array. In one embodiment, the light device includes a pump circuit electrically connected to the battery power source and the first array, wherein the pump circuit is configured to supply a pulsed current to the first array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Inventor: Stephen Willis Bien
  • Patent number: 9724579
    Abstract: A method of playing a soft toss game utilizes a collapsible target structure. The method includes transporting the structure, which includes a plurality of bucket components, to a desired location. Each bucket component includes an outer wall, a bottom surface, and an open area at the top of the outer wall that is large enough to receive any of a plurality of tossable objects when tossed by a player. During transport, the bucket components are nested within one another. At the desired location, the bucket components are assembled in a stack. A first player tosses a first of the plurality of tossable objects in the general direction of the stack. A score is determined a score for the first player based on where the object lands relative to the stack. These steps are repeated until the game is completed. Then the bucket components are disassembled and re-nested within one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Inventor: Christopher Allen
  • Patent number: 9643067
    Abstract: A trainer is disclosed which is useful for developing skill in sports of coordination including for instance beer-pong.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Inventor: Scott Snyder
  • Patent number: 9597568
    Abstract: A target device for registering a hit by a thrown object such as a flying disc is provided and includes a pylon assembly, an interceptor, and a receipt component. The pylon assembly, the interceptor, and the receipt component are operatively associated with one another such that a movement of the pylon assembly from its operating disposition to its stowage disposition operates to move the interceptor and the receipt component axially closer to the base axial end of the pylon assembly and, when the pylon assembly is in its stowage disposition, the interceptor has been moved from its intercepting position into its non-intercepting position, and the receipt component has been moved from its flared position into its pack position, the interceptor and the receipt component at least partially axially overlap one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Inventor: Michael S. Holgate
  • Patent number: 9364732
    Abstract: A tossing game is disclosed. The game can comprise two stations, and each station can comprise a plurality of targets. The targets can comprise an opening, and players can attempt to toss tossing articles into the openings of the targets. Scoring for the game can be implemented in a number of ways. In one method, for example, points can be awarded for each target based on whether a first player or second player was the most recent player to toss a tossing article into that target. The number of points awarded can be a function of a given point value assigned to that target. The game can be played in a variety of ways, and can provide seemingly endless hours of fun and entertainment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventor: Mark Endreszl
  • Patent number: 9341208
    Abstract: A lower corner connector for a modular sports goal comprises a first tube having a generally circular inner surface and a second tube extending substantially perpendicularly to the first tube. The first tube has an open end for receiving an upright and a base opposite the open end for resting on a surface. A retainer projects inwardly from the inner surface of the first tube for engaging and retaining the upright and permitting the upright to rock toward and away from the second tube within the first tube to assist in absorbing impact forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Thomas Edward Stewart
  • Patent number: 9339708
    Abstract: A throwing disc, goal apparatus, and game are provided. A disc includes a central hub with blades projecting equiangularly from the hub. The blades are circumscribed by and joined to an outer perimeter ring that aids in throwing. The blades of the disc act as airfoils and impart unique flight characteristics to the disc. A goalpost is comprised of two vertical sections, joined by a horizontal cross-bar located above the midline of the vertical sections, and supported by a rectangular frame oriented perpendicularly to the vertical sections. A scoring pad is included. The game is played by tossing the disc and attempting to pass the disc while in flight between the vertical posts and above the horizontal cross-bar of the goalpost, and landing the disc on the scoring pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Robert J. Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 9227122
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a game, and more specifically to an outdoor game designed for two or more players that requires navigating a large playing field containing a variety of objects and obstacles. The players navigate the course by hitting a ball with a bat over, through or around the objects while avoiding the obstacles. The starting line, the end line, the game course, the rules for the game and the point system to decide the winner are determined and communicated to the players prior to the game. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the player reaching the end line with the fewest strokes is awarded the win. The preferred playing field is a golf course.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Jakubowski
  • Patent number: 9162128
    Abstract: A method of operating a disc golf course having a receptacle for each hole, each receptacle including a substantially vertically extending sidewall presenting an upper edge, lower edge, inner surface, and outer surface having an upper portion that extends to the upper edge; and a floor connected to the sidewall at an outer edge of the floor, the floor and the inner surface defining an open-topped interior chamber; installing the receptacles in the playing surfaces such that a player attempts a first throw of the disc into the interior chamber by throwing, skipping, or bouncing the disc higher than the upper edge or rolling the disc over the upper edge and attempts a second throw of the disc into the interior chamber by throwing, skipping, or bouncing the disc higher than the upper edge or rolling the disc over the upper edge if the first throw was unsuccessful.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Inventor: Thomas L. Ingle
  • Publication number: 20150115532
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a bag toss game, a bag toss game system, and method including, in an example, a game board including six cavities of substantially equal volume. The game board including a support member configured to elevate a back end of the game board. The system can further include a plurality of bags, each of the plurality of bags including a filler material and a case configured to retain at least a portion of the plurality of bags. The case can include a reusable scorecard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventors: Chris Martinson, Tommi Pringle
  • Patent number: 9010759
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to drinking games and apparatuses for the use therewith. Specifically, this invention relates to an improved drinking game component and cup alignment apparatus for use with various drinking games. The drinking game cup or attachment and cup alignment apparatus may be designed in such a manner as to allow for simplified, accurate and reliable positioning of one or more drinking cups on a playing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventor: Sean Michael McDonnell
  • Publication number: 20150091253
    Abstract: A trainer is disclosed which is useful for developing skill in sports of coordination including for instance beer-pong.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventor: Scott Snyder
  • Publication number: 20150069708
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method of playing a new toss game. The apparatus is compact and portable. The apparatus comprises two identical stand-alone units and is intended for use by players of all ages and is designed to be played competitively requiring the players use their skills and abilities to toss a projectile into a receiving member. The present invention provides a number of benefits including a source of entertainment, recreation, social interaction, and improving eye-hand coordination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: Todd Mashburn
  • Publication number: 20150061225
    Abstract: The invention comprises a target for a disc throwing game having at least one receptacle having a wall, the wall having an inner surface and an outer surface, and at least one aperture therein, an illumination means secured to the inner surface of the wall, and, a first reflective member secured to the inner surface of the wall, operatively arranged to reflect light from the illumination means through the at least one aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: Kan Jam, LLC
    Inventor: Charles C. Sciandra
  • Patent number: 8967624
    Abstract: A receptacle for receiving a disc thrown in a disc game includes a vertically extending cylindrical sidewall presenting upper and lower portions, an upper edge, a lower edge, an inner surface, an outer surface, and a floor. The inner surface and the floor cooperatively define an open-topped interior chamber configured for receiving and retaining the disc. When the receptacle is installed in the ground surface or an elevated playing surface, the lower portion of the cylindrical sidewall extends approximately 3 to approximately 10 inches below the ground surface or playing surface and the upper portion of the cylindrical sidewall extends approximately 0.125 to approximately 5 inches above the ground surface or playing surface to block and reject discs sliding along the ground surface or playing surface or travelling lower than the upper edge of the cylindrical sidewall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventor: Thomas L. Ingle
  • Patent number: 8925926
    Abstract: A game table system adapted used with a plurality of cups and at least one ball, comprising a table structure defining a game surface and a plurality of cup areas, a sensor associated with each of the cup areas; and at least one cup light associated with each of the cup areas. The at least cup light is energized to indicate locations of the cup areas. Each sensor is configured to detect when a cup is supported by the game surface on the cup area associated with that sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Phipps Custom Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Mark Alway
  • Patent number: 8905872
    Abstract: A sport goal movement system that includes drive and control systems. The drive system preferably includes a motor that selectively drives one of a wheel or a track. The drive system can be integrated with and/or permanently or removably secured to the sport goal assembly. Operation of the drive system effectuates single user unassisted and possibly remote translation of the sport goal assembly relative to a ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Nelson Ennis
  • Patent number: 8905406
    Abstract: This invention will provide a portable point/beer pong game for individual or team use. The invention is portable where it can be broken down, carried or stored in a bag, or other suitable container. The invention can be used as a ‘Beer Pong’ game as is common or it can be used as a game where points are scored. The invention top can also be used as a floating game in a swimming pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Kevin J. Brown
  • Patent number: 8900076
    Abstract: The quarterback training apparatus is comprised of an array of tracks that extend laterally, diagonally, or longitudinally, and which accommodates at least one movable target thereon. Each movable target includes a track-engaging member from which a pivoting member extends vertically therefrom, and atop of which is a basket. Each basket includes a flexible net that extends from a back opening in order to collect a football that is thrown therein. The baskets may have varying diameters, and may be tilted to a multitude of orientations via the pivoting member. The track-engaging member enables the basket to be moved along the respective track while the pivoting member enables the basket to be adjusted at varying orientations. When fully constructed, an end user is able to throw a plurality of footballs at the various targets in order to practice different types of football throws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Inventor: Darian Shropshire
  • Patent number: 8894511
    Abstract: A portable and easily foldable sport net 50 includes a ball return system wherein balls 930 or other projectiles are stopped and gently rolled back to the user. A frame system 200 may include spring steel or fiberglass and may further includes front frame members 210, rear frame members 220 and lower lateral frame members 230. An inside net 100 is attached or integrated into the front frame members 210 and the inside net 100 has little contact or attachment to the rear frame members 220. The judicious use of netting material and other components result in a lightweight and easy to assemble sport net. Embodiments feature two lateral voids 250 and a rear void 240 which provide an economy of construction and efficiency of use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventors: Renan Lore, Huaimian Zhang
  • Publication number: 20140265137
    Abstract: This application describes the use and construction of a light weight portable target for use in the game of Disc Golf. The purpose of the invention is to provide lightweight, compact, durable Disc Golf Target exhibiting features that improve over those already in existence and which also meets the requirements for officially sanctioned targets as published by the PDGA (Professional Disc Golf Association). The target is suitable for use anywhere and anytime a disc golfer may wish to play the game of disc golf; it can easily be used inside or outside a house or other structure. The target is just as suitable for play in completely dark nighttime conditions as it is during the day.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Jeffrey S. Gradinger
  • Publication number: 20140265138
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to a toss game.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: ANTHONY ESPOSITO
  • Patent number: 8827845
    Abstract: The Frisbee disc golf practice tower includes a plurality of vertically stacked baskets that collect Frisbee discs that are thrown into a front opening of each basket, and which are used as a means of practicing Frisbee golf putting or in connection with a game. The baskets are formed from a plurality of tubular components that connect, and from which netting spans along each basket at a rear surface, side surfaces, and a bottom surface. A top basket includes a backboard that enables a bank shot to be made therein. The tubular construction of the practice tower can collapse between uses, and arise from base members that secure the practice tower upon different ground surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Inventor: Mark F. Griffin
  • Publication number: 20140243118
    Abstract: A catching apparatus has a bent steel frame and a mesh work mounted to the frame. The catching apparatus has an upper portion that defines the target or gathering zone, and a lower portion that defines a pouch or sling into which objects caught in the upper portion collect. The apparatus has side openings permitting objects caught therein to be retrieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Inventor: Timothy Myles Weston
  • Patent number: 8794629
    Abstract: A game board is provided having a playing surface and a support structure so that the board is angled at approximately 75 degrees to the ground. The board has a bottom wall and a plurality of side walls extending therefrom defining one or more scoring areas. In a preferred embodiment the scoring areas correspond to playing card values, a ledge is provided as a wild card, and players toss five bags per round to build poker hands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Inventor: Richard R Humphreys, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8764017
    Abstract: A recreational amusement takes the form a cooler having a toss-type game board integrated with the cooler's lid. The toss-type game board includes one or more cavities in the top of the lid. Provision is made for orienting the top of the lid in a sloping position for play of the game enabled by the game board. The cooler retains all conventional features of a beverage type cooler and, in particular, the characteristic of the interior space of the cooler being substantially sealed off from the environment about the cooler by placement atop the body of the cooler of the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: The Tailgate Crew LLC
    Inventors: Kevin Edward Manner, Brooks Christopher Bennett
  • Patent number: 8734275
    Abstract: A goal assembly includes a base frame and a main frame. The base frame includes a first side rail, a second side rail and a cross-member that is engaged to the first and second side rails. The main frame includes a first side leg engaged to the first side rail, a second side leg engaged to the second side rail, and a cross-bar engaged to the first and second side legs. A first wheel assembly is engaged to the first side rail. The first wheel assembly includes a wheel that rotates about a rotation axis of the first wheel assembly. A second wheel assembly is engaged to the first side rail. The second wheel assembly includes a wheel that rotates about a rotation axis of the second wheel assembly. The rotation axes of the first and second wheel assemblies are generally parallel to the first side rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: The Prophet Corporation
    Inventor: Amber Orenstein
  • Patent number: 8662501
    Abstract: A portable beer pong table including a table having a plurality of coextensively shaped apertures formed therein, a plurality of flexible rings removably attached to the table and positioned about the apertures respectively, a plurality of rigid first support members attached to the table and spaced from the apertures, a plurality of rigid second support members attached to the first support members and extending downwardly from the table, a plurality of rigid third support members adjustably coupled to the second support members and disposed opposite to the first support members, and a plurality of anchoring sleeves positioned along a portion of the third support members and remaining spaced from the second support members respectively. In this manner, the second support members cooperate with the third support members to maintain the table at a substantially stable position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Perales
  • Patent number: 8657293
    Abstract: A projectile tossing game that combines elements of traditional washers and bean bag games with baseball. The game includes a receiving box that resembles a baseball field having an infield and outfield. The floor of the box can be covered with a material such as outdoor carpeting or turf to minimize the impact of projectiles landing in the box. Players score points (or runs) by landing projectiles in the infield or in one of the cylindrical outfield targets. The game is played for nine turns rather than a predetermined score. In the event of a tie, extra turns are taken until a player or team is declared the winner. The game can be played with multiple players and one receiving box or teams of players with two receiving boxes. A carrying case, handle, or lid may be provided to assist with transport of the game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Edison Nation, LLC
    Inventor: Chad Sindaco
  • Patent number: 8579737
    Abstract: Goal apparatus comprising a frame, a first pliable goalpost member, a second pliable goalpost member and a pliable crossbar member. The frame presents net connection points and is configured to support each of the pliable goal members in tension between two net connection points such that the goal apparatus presents a substantially rectangular goal mouth. A frame for use in the goal apparatus. A net for use in the goal apparatus comprising first, second and third edges, and a first pliable goalpost member, a second pliable goalpost member and a pliable crossbar member extending along the first, second and third edge respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Quick Play Sport Limited
    Inventors: Allen Holland, William Parsons
  • Patent number: 8579736
    Abstract: In a soccer goal consisting of a framework supporting a net arranged to trap a soccer ball passing through the mouth of the frame upon scoring a goal, a safety device for preventing the shifting of the framework from a playing field position or from tipping over from misuse or player impact consisting of a weighted roller attachable or attached to the rear of the framework and resting on the playing field opposite the mouth which roller is either permanently weighted by construction of a heavy material or is constructed of a sealed shell fillable with a liquid such as water or a flowable particulate substance such as sand. In addition to providing the necessary weight to stabilize the goal, the rollers facilitate the repositioning of the goal for storage or to clear a playing field for other purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Inventor: James H. Gravel
  • Patent number: 8528910
    Abstract: A game device having a top panel, a bottom panel, a left panel, a right panel, and a back panel. The top panel is disposed laterally between the left panel and the right panel, with the top panel oriented substantially perpendicular to the left and right panels. The back panel is disposed transversely between the left and right panels. The bottom panel is disposed laterally between the left and right panels. The front edge of the bottom panel terminates at the front edge of the top panel, and the back edge of the bottom panel terminates at the bottom edge of the back panel. The top panel has one or more apertures adapted to removably retain one or more cups. A cup support panel may be located below and oriented parallel with the top panel. The game device is adapted to be secured to a rigid structure, such as a wall, by hooks, hangers, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Inventor: Adam Escobar
  • Patent number: 8485822
    Abstract: A simulation system for a machine is disclosed. The simulation system has a user interface configured to display a simulated environment, and a controller in communication with the user interface. The controller is configured to receive historical information related to performance of a machine, and recreate a past operation of the machine from the received historical information. The controller is also configured to provide to the user interface the recreated past operation for display in the simulated environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Lind
  • Patent number: 8444150
    Abstract: A rotatable target for use in a projectile toss game using a projectile such as a bean bag. The rotatable target has a semi-circular main body portion having a base, a rim, and a substantially flat outer surface. A hub is located substantially at the axis of the main body portion. A plurality of shelves project outwardly from the outer surface of the main body portion, preferably at an angle of about 90 degrees. Preferably the shelves extend radially from the hub to the rim. A pendulum extends vertically downwardly below the hub. The pendulum has a vertically adjustable weight associated therewith. A target stand having a pivot pin that extends outwardly therefrom and through the hub of the main body portion in a manner adapted to allow the main body portion to rotate about the pivot pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Inventor: Ronald H. Stirtz
  • Publication number: 20130109513
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a weighted flag for use as an aerodynamic projectile directed to a target, an apparatus for receiving and storing a tossable object, and a toss game set that includes at least one weighted flag and at least one target apparatus according to the present invention. The present invention also relates to methods of making and using the weighted flag and target apparatus according to the present invention. The present invention further relates to a method of play that involves using the weighted flag and the target apparatus according to the present invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: LEE HOUSE, LLC
    Inventor: LEE HOUSE, LLC
  • Patent number: 8403330
    Abstract: A ball net of box type comprises a front loop, a rear loop, and first and second side loops. The enclosing net portion are for covering a top hole formed by top portions of the loops, two side holes formed by the side loops, and a rear hole formed by the rear loop, so as to enclose the box-type space from four sides. The vertical side straight portions of neighboring loops are hold together by fabric holder portions. The top curved portion of the front loop protrudes above the top straight portions of the other loops, such that a front opening defined by the front loop provides a receiving area larger than the other holes defined by the other loops especially in a upper portion of the receiving area. The front loop has a larger area than the other loops in a lower portion of the receiving area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: Kwang Han Cho
  • Patent number: 8388471
    Abstract: A pitching screen which provides a first pitching lane and a second pitching lane in a single pitching screen configuration to allow both left-handed pitchers and right-handed pitchers to pitch without repositioning the pitching screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Morrow Sports, LLC
    Inventor: William David Morrow
  • Patent number: 8376852
    Abstract: An electronic sensing device includes a blanket, at least a sensor unit, and a display unit. The blanket has a circuit unit thereon and a plurality of couplers electrically connected to the circuit unit. The sensor unit is detachably fastened to the blanket and electrically connected to the couplers. The sensor unit has an impact surface. The display unit is electrically connected to the circuit unit of the blanket to show a message when the impact surface of the sensor unit receives an external force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Sport-Ace International Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Eddie Kao
  • Patent number: 8333384
    Abstract: A self-deploying game device, which is intended to receive an object. It includes a bowed structure with a basic loop that includes a front part in a horizontal plane and a rear part, and a goal loop, with a rear part in a horizontal plane, and a front part in a plane forming a non-zero angle with the horizontal plane. It also includes a flexible structure with a first part stretched inside the goal loop, and a second part stretched inside the rear part of the goal loop. In the deployed position, the front part of the basic loop rests on the ground, and the tension of the flexible structure is such that the basic loop, the goal loop, the flexible structure, and the ground, form a capture volume for the object, the entrance of which is bounded by the front part of the goal loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Decathlon
    Inventor: Yoann Simon
  • Patent number: 8322725
    Abstract: Disclosed is a half moon type net for catching balls or flexibly stopping the flight of balls, comprising a half-moon-shaped or arch-shaped loop and a fabric retainer to better support the net structure, maintain a bigger net in shape, and reduce the chance of missing balls. More specifically, the net comprises: a main member forming a substantially half-moon-shaped closed loop; a base member forming a closed loop, wherein the straight front section of the base member is connected to the straight bottom section of the main member; a fabric retainer comprising two bottom sections formed adjacent to each of the two corners of the main member and an arch section along the top section of the main member so as to maintain the main member in shape; a fabric member covering the loop of the main member to flexibly stop the flight of projectiles; and a supporting member to sustain the main member against the base member while maintaining a substantial angle between the main and base members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: Kwang Han Cho
  • Patent number: 8323128
    Abstract: A lightweight sports net frame assembly and anti-rebound system allowing straightforward assembly, enhanced rigidity, expedited replacement of the net and ease in retrieval of objects from the net frame assembly during usage of said assembly. The net frame assembly comprises substantially cylindrical cavities that allow for cables, rods or other tethering means to pass through said cavities and in turn securely fasten within the side frame members. The joints of the frame are comprised of various interlocking pieces, which provide a smooth outer surface at the joints, reinforce the rigidity of the frame and diminish rotational moments on individual segments. A frame stability system is incorporated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Rigoli
  • Patent number: 8292300
    Abstract: An upper bar and a lower bar are parallel with respect to each other and are separated by a distance. A slanted bar, vertical bar, and side bar form a triangular frame with one end of the slanted bar and one end of the vertical bar connected to one end of the upper bar. The opposing end of the vertical bar is releasably connected to one end of the side bar while the opposing end of the side bar is connected to the lower bar. Another slanted bar, vertical bar, and side bar are similarly connected at the other end of the upper and lower bars. The upper bar, lower bar, and two slanted bars include releasably connected tubular members. And both ends of the slanted bars are connected with rotatable joints. Netting may be woven onto the upper bar, the lower bar, the vertical bars, and the side bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventor: J. Brantley Moore, III
  • Patent number: 8282509
    Abstract: A foldable device for use in supporting sports nets or the like, the foldable device including: a) a selectively foldable support ring including pivotally secured substantially arcuate sections; and b) a foldable support stand for engaging the ring and having a first open position and a second closed position; and c) at least a part of the ring forming at least one handle when said support stand is in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Golf, Gifts and Gallery, Inc.
    Inventors: H. Ward Michaelson, John Cummings