Apertured Or Pocketed Goal Or Target (e.g., For Hockey, Soccer, Polo, Lacrosse, Etc.) Patents (Class 473/478)
  • Publication number: 20030181264
    Abstract: A modular sports net assembly of the type forming an enclosure and used for receiving and retaining a sports item, such as a ball or the like. The assembly is assembled for deployment as a prism of varying shapes and sizes on any relatively flat ground surface and disassembled for storage. The assembly includes a tubular interfitting frame and a plurality of planar net panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventor: Young W. Yoon
  • Publication number: 20030166424
    Abstract: A collapsible goal frame for ball games has a frame composed by a vertical n-shaped frame, an upper horizontal n-shaped frame, a lower horizontal n-shaped frame and two vertical supporting poles; in particular, connecting tubes are contraposed between the upper horizontal n-shaped frame and the lower horizontal n-shaped frame; the present invention is characterized that two sides of the vertical n-shaped frame are respectively disposed with a 180° bendable joint; on two sides of the upper horizontal n-shaped frame and the lower horizontal n-shaped frame are respectively disposed with a 90° bendable joint; after the supporting pole is detached, the bendable joints of the upper horizontal n-shaped frame and the lower horizontal n-shaped frame are folded toward each other; then the bendable joints on two sides at the center of the vertical n-shaped frame are bent forwardly and downwardly to form a collapsed structure slightly in a W-shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventor: Jen-Chieh Wu
  • Patent number: 6607455
    Abstract: A structure consisting of five main versatile tubular components, each serving a structural purpose for soccer skill training. Two of the components contiguous, have an identical trapezoid shape, with specific six-inch radius curved angles (ninety, ninety-five, one hundred thirteen and sixty two degree inside curved angles). They are considered the base of this structure called Side Frame (10), which include Side Frame Wide-hole Nylon Netting (60). Two additional contiguous components are different sized rectangular rebounding planes, Large Frame (40) containing a tightly wound Large Frame Vinyl Coated Mesh (64) rebound netting and Small Frame (30) containing a tightly wound Small Frame Vinyl Coated Mesh (62) rebound netting. The last contiguous component is a Stabilizing Bar (50), which stabilizes this apparatus and converts into a Back Passer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Inventor: Kenneth A. Petras
  • Publication number: 20030153412
    Abstract: An apparatus, a system and a method are provided for a net having rods interconnected by joints. The apparatus has two types of joints. The first type of joint arranges rods linearly. The second type of joint arranges rods perpendicularly. The apparatus and/or system may be assembled and disassembled without separation and/or removal of any of its components. In addition, the apparatus and/or system may have netting which attaches to covers placed around the rods. A method for assembling the apparatus and/or system is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Roger E. Duba, Douglas R. Duba
  • Publication number: 20030144092
    Abstract: In one aspect, the invention is directed to a hockey net protector including an outer layer and an inner layer. Tho outer layer includes an elongate band of tear resistant and puncture resistant material. The outer layer has an inside face, an upper edge and a lower edge. The inner layer has a plurality of grommets mounted thereon for connecting the protector to a hockey net.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventors: David Loverock, Deborah Wilcock
  • Patent number: 6579196
    Abstract: An all sports net assembly is disclosed for providing an enclosure for receiving and retaining a sports item such as a ball or the like. The net assembly may be readily assembled for deployment on any relatively flat ground surface and disassembled for storage. The assembly includes a tubular frame structure formed into the shape of a prism. A plurality of intermediate pole segments interconnect a plurality of corner units. Each of the corner units comprises projecting pole receiving portions extending along at least three independent axis, where each pole receiving portion receives an end of said intermediate pole segments to define at least four planes. A plurality of netting panels are removably attached to the tubular frame structure so as to enclose the frame assembly except for one plane of the tubular frame structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventor: Young W. Yoon
  • Patent number: 6558279
    Abstract: A collapsible sports goal assembly movable between an open position and a closed position has a base frame, a front frame, and a top frame, and one or more connecting leg assemblies to provide support for the goal assembly. The base frame, the front frame, and the top frame respectively include a first leg, a second leg laterally spaced relative to the first leg and oriented approximately parallel thereto, and a third leg extending between the first and second legs. The first leg of the front frame is pivotally connected to the first leg of the base frame, and the second leg of the front frame is pivotally connected to the second leg of the base frame thereby pivotally connecting the front frame to the base frame. The first and second legs of the top frame are pivotally connected to the third leg of the front frame to thereby pivotally connect the top frame to the front frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Inventor: Brian L. Goldwitz
  • Patent number: 6530844
    Abstract: A ball barrier assembly includes a looped barrier frame, an upright rear leg rod, a support rod unit, and a barrier fabric net. The looped barrier frame has a lower base portion and an upper frame portion. The upright rear leg rod has an upper end connected to the upper frame portion of the barrier frame, and a lower end that cooperates with the lower base portion to the assembly on a ground surface. The support rod unit interconnects the rear leg rod and the barrier frame. The barrier fabric net has a peripheral portion connected to the barrier frame, and collects a ball that passes through the barrier frame and that impinges upon the net.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Inventor: Heng-Che Lin
  • Patent number: 6511390
    Abstract: A net assembly which allows a user to easily and conveniently practice the launching, throwing or kicking of sports balls (such as baseballs, soccer balls and footballs) in a limited and/or indoor area, and is easily carried, kept or installed. In the net assembly, the net is appropriately tensioned, thus effectively stopping flying balls without failure. The net assembly has a U-shaped base pipe unit laid on a support surface. A main support pipe is mounted to an end of each side arm of the base pipe unit. The support pipe extends upwardly and is inclined outwardly relative to the side arm at an angle of 45°±10°. First and second tension pipes are coupled to each other using a joint, thus forming a tension pipe unit with a holding pin being provided at an outside end of the tension pipe unit for holding a net. The tension pipe unit is mounted to the support pipe at the lower end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Inventor: Bae-Kyun Kim
  • Patent number: 6508729
    Abstract: A goal shot training system for dividing the plane of goal into a plurality of zones for targeting shots on the goal. The goal shot training system provides a system for training shots on a goal of the type having a pair of laterally-spaced, substantially vertically oriented upright members and a substantially horizontally oriented cross member extending between the upright members, with the upright members and the cross member defining a goal plane. The system comprises a first strap for suspending from the cross member of the goal for dividing the goal plane into horizontally-separated zones and a second strap for extending between the upright members for dividing the goal plane into vertically-separated zones. In one preferred embodiment of the invention, a pair of the first straps and a pair of the second straps are included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Inventors: Warren V. Coltrane, Michael D. Sink
  • Publication number: 20020193189
    Abstract: A collapsible sports goal assembly movable between an open position and a closed position has a base frame, a front frame, and a top frame, and one or more connecting leg assemblies to provide support for the goal assembly. The base frame, the front frame, and the top frame respectively include a first leg, a second leg laterally spaced relative to the first leg and oriented approximately parallel thereto, and a third leg extending between the first and second legs. The first leg of the front frame is pivotally connected to the first leg of the base frame, and the second leg of the front frame is pivotally connected to the second leg of the base frame thereby pivotally connecting the front frame to the base frame. The first and second legs of the top frame are pivotally connected to the third leg of the front frame to thereby pivotally connect the top frame to the front frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: Brian L. Goldwitz
  • Publication number: 20020115508
    Abstract: A multi-filamentous net or mesh comprising an image visible on only one side is provided. The image is visible only from the primary viewing position without the paint or ink composition absorbing through the fibers to be visible from the back of the net or mesh. This permits the use of multi-filamentous nets or mesh for images or logos without disrupting the spectators' view and/or the use of both sides of the net or mesh for unidirectional images or logos.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 1999
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Inventor: RICHARD BOURDAGES
  • Patent number: 6432002
    Abstract: A collapsible soccer goal, comprising vertical side frame supports, each having a pair of adjacently disposed vertical section. An elongated top beam having a plurality of adjacently disposed horizontal sections including opposite end sections resting atop the pair of vertical sections; and the vertical and horizontal sections are formed as hollow tubular elements with joints, including corner joints formed by the elongated top beam with the pair of vertical sections, and the adjacently disposed sections are all joined together by a plurality of bar means. Each vertical side frame support further includes at least a plurality of adjustable/extendible or telescoping struts; and the plurality of adjustable/extendible or telescoping struts forms a truss-like structure connectable to a vertical section for supporting the vertical and horizontal sections as a unitary soccer goal in a vertical upright position orthogonal to ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Inventor: Onofrio F. Pavonetti
  • Patent number: 6425834
    Abstract: A flying ball stopping net device having a plurality of legs arranged side by side one ht ground. The legs extend in one direction substantially horizontal with a frame extending upward away from the legs. The frame has supports that support lower portions of the frame body at longitudinally intermediate portions of the legs. A net surrounds the outer edge of the frame body to which it is attached. Each support includes a first support pipe projecting upward from the longitudinal intermediate portion of the leg. A second support pipe projects downwardly from the lower portion of the frame body and is removably fitted to the first support pipe for relative turning movement around the axis thereof. An elastic locking body having one end fitted in one of the first and second support pipes and is locked therein. The other end of the elastic body is removably fitted in the other one of the first and second support pipes to be pressed against the inner peripheral surface thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Assignee: Toa Sports Machine Incorporated
    Inventor: Kazu Nozato
  • Patent number: 6402641
    Abstract: A target device is positionable in an infinite number of positions within a sports goal having left and right upright members and a crossbar connecting the upright members. The device includes a main body generally comprised of a sheet material. A pair of spaced apart adjustable straps engaging an upper portion of the main body and are used for suspending the main body from the crossbar of the goal. An elastic cord extends through a lower portion of the main body and has first and second ends for attaching to the left and right upright members, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: William J. Lee
  • Patent number: 6402643
    Abstract: A folding soccer goal, consisting of a goalpost, backstay bars, and a net, wherein the goalpost has a horizontal crossbar and two vertical posts foldably attached to the crossbar; the backstay bars foldably attach to the goalpost and extend outward and downward therefrom; a hinged foot assembly is connected to the bottom of each vertical post wherein the foot is adapted for attachment to a playing surface; also disclosed is a method for erecting a soccer goal including the steps of laying the goal on the playing surface, positioning the feet against the playing surface, attaching the feet to the playing surface, raising the posts about the hinges to a substantially vertical position over the feet, and securing the posts in a substantially vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Sukhinder Paul Timothy Singh Gill
  • Patent number: 6371873
    Abstract: A goal assembly includes two lengthwise assemblies and two L-shaped assemblies which are pivotally connected between the two lengthwise assemblies which are parallel with each other on different horizontal planes. Each lengthwise assembly has two sections pivotally connected by a connection member. Each L-shaped assembly includes a post and a widthwise bar pivotally connected with each other. A net is connected to the two lengthwise assemblies and the two L-shaped assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventor: Cheng-Liang Wang
  • Publication number: 20020022540
    Abstract: A folding and portable training device for soccer and physical education includes a plurality of meshed, interlocked planks arranged to form a closed geometric figure to be utilized as a rebounding surface. The number of planks used determines the type of geometric figure formed. The device may be employed indoors or outdoors. Easily assembled and disassembled, the device is lightweight and waterproof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventors: Piotr Slomski, Grazyna A. Slomski
  • Patent number: 6345820
    Abstract: A scoring hood for a gaming table, such as an air hockey table, is provided comprising a top, and two sides defining a goal opening which extends into the playing area of the table wherein the sides curve concavedly outwardly from the goal opening to the edge of the playing area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Assignee: Indian Industries
    Inventors: Jeffrey R. Zucchi, James R. Allshouse
  • Patent number: 6312348
    Abstract: A playing field for playing where the field includes marked sidelines, goal lines and cross-lines at a distance from the goal lines. The playing field includes a total of four goal structures, rather than the conventional two goal structures and thus there are two goal structures located along each goal line spaced from each other along that goal line. The overall soccer field complies with the international regulations governing the dimensions of the field and of the goal structures, however, a new and different game with enhanced excitement is possible with the use of the additional goal structure located along each goal line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventor: Timo Aulis Sandell
  • Patent number: 6209878
    Abstract: A collapsible, portable sporting goal frame is provided, having a pair of side support frames connected by a pair of flexible cables. Each of the side frames is constructed of a sequence of individual tubular frame members that connect to one another on an end-to-end basis. An elastic cord runs through each of the tubular members, and is placed in a stretched configuration when the tubular members are slidably connected together, end-to-end. The elastic cord thereby applies a compressive force against the connected frame members, resisting the unintentional disassembly thereof. When storage or transport is required, the individual members slide apart, with the elastic cord maintaining sequential order of the frame members. The net is attached to the flexible cables and the tubular frame members collapse in a manner forming a take-up spindle for the netting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventor: Alick R. Munro
  • Patent number: 6200235
    Abstract: A net set for a swing set and method for attaching the net set which enables the swing set to be used as a soccer goal, comprising: a back net piece with at least two substantially vertical side edges and one substantially horizontal top edge; two side net pieces each attached to the back piece along at least one of the side edges; a net top piece attached to the back piece along the top edge; and one or more ties or straps for removably attaching one or more of the net pieces to the swing set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Mary Jane Gembarowicz
  • Patent number: 6190272
    Abstract: A method for playing a sport that includes the following steps: (1) a fee is paid by a player, (2) the player places a ball on the ground at the beginning of a course (the course contains a plurality of goals), (3) the player kicks the ball towards the first of the goals, (4) the player scores a goal by kicking his ball into the first goal, (5) the player tabulates the number of kicks required to score the goal, (6) the player records the results of his tabulation and assigns one point for each kick required, (7) the player moves to the next goal and repeats steps 3-6 for each successive goal until the course is complete, and (8) the player determines his final score by adding the number of points required to complete the course. The player with the lowest point total is the winner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Inventor: Glenn R. Bernard
  • Patent number: 6165085
    Abstract: An improved soccer goal of the type including a net and a frame for supporting the net. The frame includes a first vertical front post, a second vertical front post, a front bottom cross bar, a front top cross bar, a first horizontal side bar, a second horizontal side bar, a rear bottom cross bar, a first diagonal strut, and a second diagonal strut. The improvement includes an intermediate cross bar having a first end for attachment to the first diagonal strut and a second end for attachment to the second diagonal strut with the net attached to the intermediate cross bar to create a first back stop portion extending between the intermediate cross bar and the front top cross bar and a second back stop portion extending diagonally between the intermediate cross bar and the front bottom cross bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Inventor: Ronnie L. Lubin
  • Patent number: 6113507
    Abstract: A sports net adapted to be quickly attached to and detached from a sports goal frame such as a portable frame for soccer goal or a street hockey goal, the frame having tubular members and including a first U-shaped upright portion for forming a goal mouth with a crossbar and side posts, and a second U-shaped portion connected to the upright frame portion and adapted to lie on a horizontal surface, and oblique portions interconnecting the upright and horizontal frame portions. An elastic cord element is incorporated in the outer perimeter of the generally rectangular net and the cord constricts the perimeter and forms an expandable opening. The net can be draped over the goal frame and properly aligned with the frame with the aid of colored indicia attached to the net, and the perimeter tucked around the frame such that it resiliently embraces the insides of the frame members of the first and second portions so that the net is releasably secured to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Ronald G. Padilla
  • Patent number: 6059673
    Abstract: A goalie training system for providing a realistic training system that accommodates a goalie and a plurality of shooters at different angles. The inventive device includes a goalie zone and a plurality of shooting lanes extending from the goalie zone at various angles. The goalie zone is comprised of a center member, a pair of side members adjacent the center member, a center surface above the center member, and a pair of side surfaces above the side members. The center surface, the side surfaces and the lane surface are comprised of a synthetic ice material that allows conventional ice skates to be utilized. The plurality of shooting lanes are comprised of at least one lane member and at least one lane surface positioned above the lane member. A goal is positioned behind the goalie zone for simulating a realistic hockey rink. At least one shooter is able to utilize the shooting lane for shooting pucks at the goal which the goalie attempts to deflect within the goalie zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventor: Donald D. Mason
  • Patent number: 6012994
    Abstract: The present invention consists of an ice hockey training dummy adapted to be installed onto a playing field to simulate the presence of either a teammate or an adverse party player and comprising in combination a generally flat body having a general outline of a player and attached at its lower part to a support via cylindrical spring clips, the support maintaining the dummy support to maintain the dummy in upright position. One hand of the dummy is built in the body while the second lower hand extends out from said body. The upper part of a hockey stick is built in the body and extends between both hands. The lower freely protruding part of the hockey stick is attached to the dummy via a spring link allowing enough flexibility for the stick lower part to be slightly deflected about the spring link when hit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Inventor: Serge Beluse
  • Patent number: 5954600
    Abstract: A folding soccer goal, consisting of a goalpost, backstay bars, and a net, wherein the goalpost has a horizontal crossbar and two vertical posts foldably attached to the crossbar; the backstay bars foldably attach to the goalpost and extend outward and downward therefrom; a hinged foot assembly is connected to the bottom of each vertical post wherein the foot is adapted for attachment to a playing surface; also disclosed is a method for erecting a soccer goal including the steps of laying the goal on the playing surface, positioning the feet against the playing surface, attaching the feet to the playing surface, raising the posts about the hinges to a substantially vertical position over the feet, and securing the posts in a substantially vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: NIC Capital Corporation
    Inventor: Sukhinder Paul Timothy Singh Gill
  • Patent number: 5951415
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a portable sports goal which is readily assembled and disassembled for use on a playing field. The sports goal is provided with a pair of pole stakes having respective support collars. The sports goal is further provided with a pair of goal poles which have respective first and second ends. The first ends of the goal poles have respective hollow inner portions which are sized and configured to receive a respective support collar of the poles stakes. The sports goal is further provided with a pair of line stakes and a pair of pole lines which are connectable between the respective line stakes and the second ends of the goal poles, for supporting the goal poles. The sports goal is further provided with an elastic cross-bar member which is attachable to the second ends of the goal poles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventors: James R. Gates, David W. Buckett
  • Patent number: 5947846
    Abstract: A score-indicating hockey goal assembly provides a television-viewable visual signal when a score is indicated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventor: Duncan R. Craig
  • Patent number: 5902196
    Abstract: A foldable goal net support includes a first side section, a second side section, a front section, and a rear section. The front section includes a first front member, a second front member, and a front spacer member disposed between the first front member and the second front member. The rear section includes a first rear member, a second rear member, and a rear spacer member disposed between the first rear member and the second rear member. The front section and the rear section are hinged for pivotal movement about a substantially vertical axis to the first side section and the second side section. A brace member extends between the front section and the rear section to rigidly support the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: Jiffy Net Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Roy Chorneyko
  • Patent number: 5902194
    Abstract: A particularly flexible soccer goal target can be formed by using a plurality of fasteners or clips to attach together a plurality of strips of netting into a target assembly. The plurality of strips of netting are fastened or clipped together, edge to edge, to form a net assembly having sufficient width and height to extend across a substantial portion of the entrance of the soccer goal. The strips of netting, which are fastened or clipped together to form the target assembly, may be easily disconnected by unclipping them at different locations of the goal entrance to provide openings in the target assembly at different positions in the goal that will serve as targets for practice. Further, both the soccer net and flexible soccer goal may be provided at their peripheries with a plurality of spaced permanently attached cord-formed attachment means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Inventor: Joseph B. Wade
  • Patent number: 5902195
    Abstract: A collapsible soccer goal for an athletic field having a matched pair of vertical side supporting frame sections, and a crossbar beam having a plurality of horizontal sections. All of the vertical and some of the horizontal sections comprising a locking hinge enabling some of the sections to be folded in half. The plurality of horizontal sections are detachably connected together by either locking and/or clamping means to form the overall 24 foot standard crossbar beam; and the vertical frame sections each having an overhead hinge removably connectable to a horizontal section for clamping and pulling together all sections of the horizontal crossbar beam to the two vertical goal posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Inventor: Onofrio F. Pavonetti
  • Patent number: 5895330
    Abstract: A modified sports goal is adapted for training a sports player to direct objects into preferred target areas. A modified goalpost frame is formed in the shape of a preferred target area of a standard sports goal. A net is coupled to the goalpost frame. The goalpost and net capture objects, such as hockey pucks, directed into the preferred target area, and allow misdirected objects which otherwise would have been captured by the standard sports goal to pass thereby. In this manner, a participant is rewarded with the feeling of achieving a goal only if the object enters the target areas. Otherwise, the object passes by the goal. This goal reduces the need for goaltenders during practice sessions, mitigating the possibility of goaltender injury and improving the shooter's ability to develop skills.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Inventor: Francis J. Reilly, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5865693
    Abstract: A new inflatable soccer goal for allowing for easy transportation and set up. The inventive device includes a contiguous peripheral frame comprised of inflatable tubing. A nylon net extends within the contiguous peripheral frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventor: Dean A. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5865691
    Abstract: A combination of sports game apparatus including a plurality of U-blocks, a plurality of triangle blocks, a plurality of elongated tubes, a plurality of L-bars, a plurality of angle connectors, and a plurality of coupling tubes, and adapted to be alternatively arranged into a framework for a net assembly for badminton or tennis, a framework for a goal for soccer or hockey, or a framework for a back stop for basketball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventor: Charlene Chen
  • Patent number: 5863266
    Abstract: A soccer type goal in which upon scoring a goal, the scoring player pulls on a release strap to allow a cover to uncoil across the goal. An athletic ball game includes a number of these goals at each end of a playing field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Assignee: USA Collegiate, L.P.
    Inventor: Todd A. Starnes
  • Patent number: 5857928
    Abstract: A sports goal comprises a goal frame, including substantially vertically oriented first and second goal posts each having a top end and a bottom end and a cross-bar interconnecting the first and second goal posts at their respective top ends. The bottom ends of the first and second goal posts define a goal line spanning therebetween. A ground contacting base is connected to the first and second goal posts at respective first and second fixed points adjacent the bottom ends of the first and second goal posts, so as to securely interconnect the first and second goal posts. The ground contacting base extends rearwardly behind the goal line to provide upright stability for the sports goal. The first and second goal posts are tiltably movable between a upright position and an impacted position disposed angularly rearwardly of the upright position. A net is secured to the goal frame and the ground contacting base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Inventor: Thomas Edward Stewart
  • Patent number: 5842940
    Abstract: A multi-use net includes a frame formed from a single wire. The frame is arranged to have an upper frame portion and a lower frame portion. The lower frame portion forms a base that supports the upper frame portion in a generally upright orientation on a generally horizontal surface with the base extending in a forward direction relative to the upper frame portion. A fabric section is connected to the frame and arranged for a projectile to be incident thereon. A pair of rear support members is connected to the frame and arranged to extend therefrom in a direction opposite to that of the lower frame portion. A pair of straps extend between the upper and lower frame sections to retain the upper and lower frame sections at a selected orientation with respect to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Inventor: Anthony G. Macaluso
  • Patent number: 5842939
    Abstract: A portable sporting goal is provided comprising a net that is removably attached by hook and loop connectors to strategic locations on a framework. The framework has a plurality of substantially hollow tubular frame members, each comprising a pair of ends comprising an inner surface. Each inner surface comprises a substantially cylindrical inner surface portion and a substantially non-cylindrical inner surface portion. The frame members are joined by a plurality of mating connectors, each comprising a pair of ends comprising an outer surface. Each outer surface comprises a substantially cylindrical outer surface portion and a substantially non-cylindrical outer surface portion. The outer surface is configured to slidingly engage within the inner surface when in substantial alignment with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Assignee: ACT Labs Ltd.
    Inventors: Alex Pui, Ed Person
  • Patent number: 5839980
    Abstract: A soccer goal assembly and apparatus includes a goal frame (20), a pivotable net frame (28), a pair of support bars (31), and a net (50). The goal frame (20) is located at the front of the goal and includes a pair of vertical posts (22) and a horizontal cross bar (23) connecting the upper ends of the vertical posts (22). A ground-level housing (26) is connected rearwardly and orthogonally to the lower ends of the vertical posts (22). The housing (26) includes a lockable compartment for storing the net (50). The net (50) is attached to the housing (26) and net frame (28). The support bars (31) are attached to the housing (26) and goal frame (20) in a manner to support the net (50) while in use during game play. When the net frame (28) pivots from a horizontal position to a vertical position abutting the goal frame (20), it pulls the net (50) over the support bars (31) to form a soccer goal enclosure. The arms (76) of the net frame are extensible to allow for the difference in the height and depth of the goal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventor: Hossein Kendy
  • Patent number: 5839733
    Abstract: A goal and method of assembly and transport for accommodating a playing field to a variety of sports includes a segmented horizontal bar (A) supported in elevated position upon upright legs (B) which are carried in hinged relation and provided with rearwardly extending lower support members (C) Which may be folded upwardly from locked position. The members (B) and (C) may then be folded into side by side alignment with the segmented bar (A) which is then in fully folded position with the rearwardly extending net. Support members may also be folded inwardly for completing the package for towing on the dolly (H). Suitable locking mechanism is provided for securing all of the structural components when fully deployed as a fixed goal upon the playing field. These fixed members may then be released for folding into positioning upon the dolly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventors: T. Wayne Meeks, Dixie M. Meeks
  • Patent number: 5830089
    Abstract: A collapsible sport goal includes a collapsible frame assembly, and a net extended around the collapsible frame assembly. The frame assembly includes a base frame, an inverted U-shaped goal frame, an inverted U-shaped rear frame, and pivoting connector rods connected laterally between center portions of the goal frame and the rear frame. The goal frame includes a center portion and two leg portions which are pivotally attached to a front portion of the base frame such that the goal frame is pivotally movable relative to the base frame. The rear frame includes a center portion and two leg portions which are pivotally attached to a rear portion of the base frame wherein the rear frame is pivotally movable relative to the base frame. The connector rods are pivotally connected at each end thereof between the respective center portions of the goal frame and the rear frame such that the connector rods are pivotally rotatable relative to the goal frame and the rear frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Hasbro, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey T. Halter, Brian S. Dengler
  • Patent number: 5827139
    Abstract: A device for attaching a roller hockey net to a desired location. The device includes a body structure having a concave shoe member on one end and a concave shoe member on the other end which the quick ties are installed through and a plate member there between, the plate member having on its bottom surface male VELCRO thereon which engages with the female VELCRO which is attached to the roller surface. The body structure may be made of a metalic material, the VELCRO is of the industrial type and the quick ties are the plastic type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Assignee: Paul J. DeCanio
    Inventors: Paul Joseph DeCanio, Gary Eddie DeCanio
  • Patent number: 5823895
    Abstract: An athletic training apparatus includes a support frame with a plurality of detachable frame segments. The support frame is supported by removable anchor pins affixing side members of the support frame to set the position of the side members on a surface and supported by taut lines connected to an upper portion of the side members and connected to anchors. The athletic training apparatus is easy to assemble and transport has a sturdy frame that connects quickly and securely. The apparatus includes a suspended ball, such as a regulation soccer ball, which is easily adjusted in height to support desired training techniques. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a support frame having a plurality of detachable firm frame segments including a first side segment, a second side segment, and a top segment. The apparatus also includes a first anchor pin affixing the position of the first side segment on a surface and a second anchor pin affixing the position of the second side segment on the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Inventor: Rale Rasic
  • Patent number: 5816947
    Abstract: A signaling apparatus which can be readily attached to any hockey goal proximate the hockey net in a manner so as to positively indicate by means of the energization of a light siren when a playing piece passes through the goal opening and impacts the net. The apparatus is useable either with an ice hockey goal or alternatively, is useable with a goal of the character found in the game of street hockey, or in a smaller form for indoor use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Daniel Kavitch
  • Patent number: 5776019
    Abstract: A combination including a frame defining at least one of a hockey and a soccer goal, a blocking element, and first structure for moving the blocking element in front of the frame so as to expose and block different parts of the goal as the blocking element is moved. The first structure moves the blocking element in two different manners in front of, and relative to, the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Inventor: Ronald Kronenberger
  • Patent number: 5695195
    Abstract: A goalpost comprises a frame 10 on which is located a net 38.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Assignees: Michel John, Peter Clive Mulroney
    Inventors: Michel John, Anthony Robin Clausen, Edward Joseph Khoury
  • Patent number: 5690339
    Abstract: Collapsible sports goal apparatus includes a goal base member and a goal net attached to the goal base member. Two flexible, resilient poles extend between the goal base member and the top of the goal net. The poles are bent and exert continuous opposed forces on the goal base member and the goal net top to continuously bias the goal net top away from the goal base member and maintain the goal net in stretched condition and disposed upwardly from the goal base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Inventor: David E. Chen
  • Patent number: 5685789
    Abstract: A new Speed Measuring Sports Goal System for measuring the speed of a shot into a sports goal. The inventive device includes a pair of motion sensors positioned in-line and perpendicular to the entrance of a sports goal for sensing an object shot into the sports goal, a control unit connected to the motion sensors for calculating the speed of the object, and a display unit for providing a visible readout of the speed. The motion detection beams generated by the pair of motion sensors are parallel to one another and substantially perpendicular to the path of the object shot into the sports goal. The control unit detects when the object traverses the motion detection beams and calculates the speed of the object based on the time of travel between the motion detection beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Inventor: Michael T. Murphy