Having Pocket With Laterally Facing Opening (e.g., Lacrosse Stick, Jai Alai Cesta, Etc.) Patents (Class 473/513)
  • Patent number: 11547090
    Abstract: A combined adjustable pet ball-throwing rod includes a rod body. A front ball socket is fixed to a first end of the rod body. The front ball socket has a hollow connecting tube. A rear ball socket is detachable and slidably sleeved on the connecting tube. The front ball socket and the rear ball socket form an elastic ball socket. The connecting tube is provided with a retaining portion, the first end of the rod body is provided with a buckling portion, and the buckling portion is buckled in the retaining portion. The quantity of the retaining portions is two, and the two retaining portions are respectively located on two opposite side walls of the connecting tube. The quantity of the buckling portions is two, and one buckling portion is buckled in one retaining portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2023
    Assignee: ZHUHAI HENGQIN SUPER TECHNOLOGY LTD.
    Inventors: Tianle Yang, Yibao Zeng
  • Patent number: 11040258
    Abstract: A lacrosse head configured to form a pocket channel, the lacrosse head having a stop member, first and second sidewalls extending from the stop member in a forward direction, and a scoop connecting the first sidewall and the second sidewall opposite to the stop member, with the scoop having a forward edge and a rearward edge, with the rearward edge of the scoop defining generally an arc shape except for a recessed portion disposed at a longitudinal centerline of the lacrosse head, and with the scoop defining at least one stringing hole disposed forward of the recessed portion. Alternatively, a lacrosse head may have a scoop that defines a plurality of lateral stringing holes disposed generally along an arc, and that defines a forwardly offset stringing hole disposed along a longitudinal centerline of the lacrosse head and forward of the arc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Assignee: Wm. T. Burnett IP, LLC
    Inventors: John William Coe, Austin Scott Brown
  • Patent number: 10806973
    Abstract: A frame of a lacrosse head includes a ball stop, a scoop, a left sidewall, and a right sidewall. Each of the left and right sidewalls includes a top rail, a bottom rail, a first cross-strut extending between the top and bottom rails thereof, and a second cross-strut extending between the top and bottom rails thereof. The second cross-struts are disposed closer to the ball stop than the first cross-struts. The second cross-strut of the left sidewall is longer than the first cross-strut of the left sidewall and extends from the top rail to the bottom rail in the direction of the scoop to the ball stop. The second cross-strut of the right sidewall is longer than the first cross-strut of the right sidewall and extends from the bottom rail to the top rail in the direction of the scoop to the ball stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: EAST COAST DYES, INC.
    Inventors: Hamilton Sean Michael Whitney, Gregory Kenneally, Brian Schaaf
  • Patent number: 10765924
    Abstract: Embodiments provide a lacrosse head with a pinched ball containment area. The head includes a juncture, a stop member adjoining the juncture, first and second sidewalls extending from the stop member in a forward direction, and a transverse wall connecting the first and second sidewalls opposite to the stop member. The adjoining transverse wall and first sidewall may form a first shoulder portion and the adjoining transverse wall and second sidewall may form a second shoulder portion, with the first and second shoulder portions defining an inside widest point perpendicularly across the bisecting line. Within a certain distance from the widest point in a rearward direction, the first sidewall and the second sidewall define a ball containment width that places the frame of the lacrosse head closer to a ball than an opposing lacrosse head during a draw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: Wm. T. Burnett IP, LLC
    Inventors: Austin Scott Brown, Betsy Barnhart
  • Patent number: 10751589
    Abstract: A lacrosse head having a front scoop geometry optimized to promote smooth ground ball play such as scooping of a ball by ground contact. The lacrosse head has a distal scoop with a mid-section cross-section shaped like a chef's-knife with a foremost point, a rear edge (lower edge of tang), a rearmost corner point (tower distal end of tang), a low continuous curve point (where heel joins choil), and rear-innermost point (choil), with a continuous perimeter bounding all of said points, the perimeter bounding said rear edge, lowest continuous curve point, and rear-innermost point defining a cavity extending toward said foremost point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: WM. T. BURNETT IP, LLC
    Inventor: Austin Brown
  • Patent number: 10716983
    Abstract: Aspects disclosed herein relate to lacrosse heads and sidewalls thereof. The sidewalls include struts which reduce weight and/or reduces stresses which can lead to fatigue failure. In some embodiments, two struts are arranged on the sidewall such that they abut each other and have a similar angle in the ball stop end to scoop end direction of the sidewall, but the two struts cross over each other in a side-to-side direction. When force is applied in a certain direction, one of the struts may be primarily in compression, while its companion strut may be primarily in tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: Cascade Maverik Lacrosse, LLC
    Inventors: Steven Kennedy, Nicholas Colville, Jesse Newman, Jefferey Colburn, David Williams
  • Patent number: 10625131
    Abstract: A game machine makes it possible to make an accurate determination of not only success but also failure with regard to a predetermined play action, and can handle various play rules. The game machine includes at least one game machine main body, and at least one game machine sub unit configured to enable a play by being arranged in a predetermined position on the game machine main body, and is characterized in that, to provide an evaluation of successful play when the game machine sub unit is positioned in the predetermined position on the game machine main body, the game machine main unit and/or the game machine sub unit is provided with a position grasping unit for grasping a positional relationship of the main body and the sub unit. The position grasping unit includes a sensing device utilizing an electric change.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: AXELL Inc.
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Ohtani, Ryo Watanabe, Masahiro Okawara
  • Patent number: 10610752
    Abstract: A lacrosse head pocket and a related method of manufacture are provided to facilitate consistent, repeatable and/or custom manufacture of lacrosse equipment. The pocket can be constructed from multiple different sections joined with one another, or can be knitted, weaved or otherwise assembled on an automated assembly machine from strands, and/or can be formed as a unitary textile material having regions/sections with different physical and/or mechanical properties. The pocket can be integrally molded within portions of a lacrosse head to eliminate manually constructed connections between the pocket and lacrosse head. The lacrosse head can be integrally molded with a lacrosse handle to provide a one-piece unitary lacrosse stick. Related methods of manufacturing also are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Assignee: WARRIOR SPORTS, INC.
    Inventors: David K. Morrow, Bruce Huffa, Thomas H. Burns, Richard J. Janisse, Sean J. Slater, Dale W. Kohler, Craig M. Herman
  • Patent number: 10561912
    Abstract: An apparatus for stringing a traditional lacrosse pocket, comprising a substantially rectangular and concave shaped pocket form sized to fit inside a lacrosse head, a series of notches running along the longitudinal edges of the pocket form, a series of cutouts running along the longitudinal center of the pocket form, outside runner guides positioned in-between the notches along the longitudinal edges of the pocket form and a pair of middle runner guides positioned in-between each of the cutouts running along the longitudinal center of the pocket form, each of the pair of the pair of middle runner guides positioned on opposite sides of the longitudinal center.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Inventor: Paul Gait
  • Patent number: 10471318
    Abstract: A lacrosse head configured to form a pocket channel, the lacrosse head having a stop member, first and second sidewalls extending from the stop member in a forward direction, and a scoop connecting the first sidewall and the second sidewall opposite to the stop member, with the scoop having a forward edge and a rearward edge, with the rearward edge of the scoop defining generally an arc shape except for a recessed portion disposed at a longitudinal centerline of the lacrosse head, and with the scoop defining at least one stringing hole disposed forward of the recessed portion. Alternatively, a lacrosse head may have a scoop that defines a plurality of lateral stringing holes disposed generally along an arc, and that defines a forwardly offset stringing hole disposed along a longitudinal centerline of the lacrosse head and forward of the arc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Assignee: Wm. T. Burnett IP, LLC
    Inventors: John William Coe, Austin Scott Brown
  • Patent number: 10406965
    Abstract: A strap holding and placement system that propels a rolled up strap over a load such as a truck bed. A handle attaches to a strap part that holds a rolled up strap. The strap part has multiple surfaces for holding the rolled strap. The multiple surfaces include a first rounded portion, which holds only a portion of the rolled strap, and a second curved portion above the rounded portion, which enables the strap to be propelled from the strap part from an area near a distal end of the strap part, when the handle is moved to propel the strap. The strap is held below the level of the front surface, in a rounded surface that is recessed below the front.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Inventor: David Johnson
  • Patent number: 10378850
    Abstract: A fluid throwing apparatus with a base that is made from substantially fluid-tight flexible material. A handle is attached to the base, which is preferably flexible (or has some flexibility), which when attached to the base causes the base to form into a cup or scoop shape when it is at least partially filled with a fluid and held above the ground. When thrown, the fluid is carried by the base and then released. Depending upon the use of the fluid throwing apparatus, the fluid release could be due to direct impact, or due to unstable flight of the system, such as deformation of the base or the momentum of the mass of fluid. In some embodiments the unstable flight may be induced by optionally attached drag components. In another embodiment the edge/rim of the base could be attached to a player and, when thrown, the attachment would pull back on an edge/rim of the base to release the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Inventors: Troy Matthew Young, Brooke Therese Young
  • Patent number: 10357692
    Abstract: A frame of a lacrosse head includes a ball stop, a scoop, a left sidewall, and a right sidewall. Each of the left and right sidewalls includes a top rail, a bottom rail, a first cross-strut extending between the top and bottom rails thereof, and a second cross-strut extending between the top and bottom rails thereof. The second cross-struts are disposed closer to the ball stop than the first cross-struts. The second cross-strut of the left sidewall is longer than the first cross-strut of the left sidewall and extends from the top rail to the bottom rail in the direction of the scoop to the ball stop. The second cross-strut of the right sidewall is longer than the first cross-strut of the right sidewall and extends from the bottom rail to the top rail in the direction of the scoop to the ball stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2019
    Assignee: EAST COAST DYES, INC.
    Inventors: Hamilton Sean Michael Whitney, Gregory Kenneally, Brian Schaaf
  • Patent number: 10286271
    Abstract: Lacrosse head sidewalls are arranged to apply additional tension to a pocket in an upper section of the head. A sidewall bottom rail includes an outward shift of an inwardly-facing surface and/or a downwardly-facing surface such that one or both of these features is spaced further from a longitudinal centerline plane of the head as compared to a head with no such outward shift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: Cascade Maverik Lacrosse, LLC
    Inventors: David Williams, Nicholas Colville, Michael Chmelik, David Winthrop Fream
  • Patent number: 10252126
    Abstract: A lacrosse head having string holes and/or sidewall openings that are offset at an angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the lacrosse head, and a related method of manufacture, are provided. The lacrosse head includes a pair of sidewalls extending from the base and joined with one another distal from the base at the scoop. A longitudinal axis can extend from the base toward the scoop. The sidewalls can define string holes, each having a string hole axis disposed at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis, optionally 5° to 75°, further optionally 25° to 35°, and even further optionally 30°. The sidewalls can define one or more sidewall openings each having a sidewall opening axis disposed at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis, such as those noted above. A related method of manufacture also is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2019
    Assignee: Warrior Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: Adam D. Paquette, Richard J. Janisse
  • Patent number: 10232240
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a game system that includes a receiving mechanism and a ball. The receiving mechanism frictionally retains the ball therein. The friction is caused by pressure that is applied on opposing points of a secant line about a surface of the ball. The frictional retention is effected by pressure applied by the receiving mechanism on at least two opposing points on the surface of the ball and the contact points of the receiving mechanism are distributed along a common secant around the ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Inventor: Rami Zein
  • Patent number: 10093049
    Abstract: A lacrosse head pocket and a related method of manufacture are provided. The pocket can be a molded pocket including individual molded strings, combined strings, shooting strings and support rails extending around a perimeter of the pocket. Certain pocket elements can include transition parts to smoothly transition components having different cross sections. The pocket can include a pre-formed ball channel and hole units having broadsides for connection to a head or other component. The pocket can be attached to a pocket frame, and optionally constructed from a mesh or other synthetic material that is tensioned with the pocket frame. A mold and related molding method are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: Warrior Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas H. Burns, Richard J. Janisse, Sean J. Slater, Dale W. Kohler, Craig M. Herman
  • Patent number: 10080939
    Abstract: A preformed lacrosse pocket, including a pocket material is disclosed. The pocket material includes a throat fastener zone, including a plurality of throat fastener apertures configured to accept a plurality of throat fasteners operable to couple the throat fastener zone to a throat region of a lacrosse head, and a channel zone adjacent to the throat fastener zone extending distally from the throat fastener zone. The pocket material is further formed to include a pair of sidewall zones adjacent to the channel zone, the sidewalls zones configured to define voids between the lacrosse head and the pocket material, when installed in the lacrosse head, scoop zone adjacent to the channel zone and the pair of sidewall zones, including a plurality of scoop fastener apertures configured to accept a plurality of scoop fasteners operable to couple the scoop fastener zone to a scoop region of the lacrosse head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: PHANTOM LACROSSE, INC.
    Inventor: Michael William Hazy
  • Patent number: 10047240
    Abstract: A composition for treating textile materials includes water, polyethylene, surfactant, preservative, and a mixture comprising sugar alcohol, hydrolyzed animal protein, and sarcosine compound. The composition can further include a fragrance. A textile material treated with the compositions described above can be a material selected from leather, nylon, or a mixture thereof. A method of preparing a composition for treating a textile material is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Assignee: JEAN ALEXANDER COSMETICS, INC.
    Inventors: Joseph Scioscia, Raymond R. Riso
  • Patent number: 9892214
    Abstract: Methods for the individualized design and manufacture of lacrosse heads using point of sale additive fabrication. In one aspect, a subscription-based method includes digitizing a plurality of lacrosse heads having different three-dimensional attributes, storing the resulting digital object data into a digital lacrosse head library, transmitting the digital lacrosse head library to a subscriber, recording the number of lacrosse heads formed by the subscriber using additive fabrication, and generating an invoice based on the number of formed lacrosse heads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: Warrior Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: David K. Morrow, Dale W. Kohler, Richard J. Janisse
  • Patent number: 9791269
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a surface to maximize the viewing of an impression in a vehicle body. This may comprise a fabric which has at least one dark colored stripe parallel to at least one light colored stripe; a compressible frame across which the said fabric is affixed, where when the frame is uncompressed the fabric is stretched taut across the frame and where the frame is compressed the fabric is slack across the frame; and a handle on the frame where a user can hold the frame and not interfere with the fabric affixed to said frame. When a user is holding the handle of the frame at an angle between 0° and 180°, the user can reflect radiant energy through said fabric onto the vehicle body and create a whorl reflection pattern on the impression to maximize viewing of said impression by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Inventors: Jutta Krebber, Kattkus Klaus
  • Patent number: 9370700
    Abstract: A lacrosse stick head with a quickly adjustable pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: Cool Stick, LLC
    Inventor: Robert K Regan
  • Patent number: 9259883
    Abstract: A lacrosse head pocket and a related method of manufacture are provided to facilitate consistent, repeatable and/or custom manufacture of lacrosse equipment. The pocket can be constructed from multiple different sections joined with one another, or can be knitted, weaved or otherwise assembled on an automated assembly machine from strands, and/or can be formed as a unitary textile material having regions/sections with different physical and/or mechanical properties. The pocket can be integrally molded within portions of a lacrosse head to eliminate manually constructed connections between the pocket and lacrosse head. The lacrosse head can be integrally molded with a lacrosse handle to provide a one-piece unitary lacrosse stick. Related methods of manufacturing also are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Warrior Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: David K. Morrow, Bruce Huffa, Thomas H. Burns, Richard J. Janisse, Sean J. Slater, Dale W. Kohler, Craig M. Herman
  • Patent number: 9186829
    Abstract: A lacrosse head pocket and a related method of manufacture are provided. The pocket can be a molded pocket including individual molded strings, combined strings, shooting strings and support rails extending around a perimeter of the pocket. Certain pocket elements can include transition parts to smoothly transition components having different cross sections. The pocket can include a pre-formed ball channel and hole units having broadsides for connection to a head or other component. The pocket can be attached to a pocket frame, and optionally constructed from a mesh or other synthetic material that is tensioned with the pocket frame. A mold and related molding method are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: Warrior Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas H. Burns, Richard J. Janisse, Sean J. Slater, Dale W. Kohler, Craig M. Herman
  • Patent number: 9174106
    Abstract: Methods of attaching a tape to a head of a lacrosse stick. The tape includes a first side that is attached to the head, and an opposing second side with a number of different sections each with different frictional coefficient values. A first section may include a low friction coefficient value and is configured to be positioned along an outer edge of the head to facilitate sliding the head along the ground. A second section includes a higher coefficient value and is configured to be positioned along an inner side of the head to contact against the lacrosse ball to facilitate ball control. The tape is configured to be used with a lacrosse stick, but may also be used in various other contexts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Inventor: Britton Paige Spivey
  • Patent number: 9162126
    Abstract: A lacrosse head pocket includes an elongated single layer runner with multiple cross pieces. The single layer runner can be constructed from a material, such as a polymeric material, molded over the cross pieces. The cross pieces and/or runner can include speed lace loops with which a net lace can be joined. A related method includes providing cross pieces, overmolding a polymeric material over the cross pieces to form a single layer runner, where the overmolded material is the only structure extending between and connecting the cross pieces, and where the cross pieces are transverse to the runners. Another method includes providing a pocket base overmolding the base with a polymeric material to cover portions of it, and forming connection elements between different portions independently of any other components of the pocket base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Assignee: Warrior Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew M. Winningham, Adam D. Paquette, Jessica L. Hanson, Richard J. Janisse
  • Patent number: 9149696
    Abstract: A lacrosse head pocket includes an elongated single layer runner with multiple cross pieces. The single layer runner can be constructed from a material, such as a polymeric material, molded over the cross pieces. The cross pieces and/or runner can include speed lace loops with which a net lace can be joined. A related method includes providing cross pieces, overmolding a polymeric material over the cross pieces to form a single layer runner, where the overmolded material is the only structure extending between and connecting the cross pieces, and where the cross pieces are transverse to the runners. Another method includes providing a pocket base overmolding the base with a polymeric material to cover portions of it, and forming connection elements between different portions independently of any other components of the pocket base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: Warrior Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew M. Winningham, Adam D. Paquette, Jessica L. Hanson, Richard J. Janisse
  • Publication number: 20150119173
    Abstract: Disclosed is a ball stop pad for use in a lacrosse head having improved ball retention characteristics, and which is impervious to repeated impacts and exposure to the elements, in a construction that complies with the rule-setting authorities' dimensional requirements. The ball stop pad is comprised of a fabric sleeve shaped for fitting within the ball stop region of a lacrosse stick head, and has a dry viscoelastic polymer on the interior of the sleeve that serves to absorb and dissipate the impact of a lacrosse ball as it first hits and then moves within and against the ball stop pad during play. The top surface of the ball stop pad is provided a series of tightly packed, circular, raised dimples that provide multiple points of contact with a ball as it impacts the ball stop, and thus constantly cushions the ball regardless of ball movement within the head of the lacrosse stick.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Louis J. Yachimowicz
  • Patent number: 8984736
    Abstract: A prosthetic device which couples to the remaining portion of a limb of an amputee which provides a ball handling structure including a ball handling surface which defines an opening through which a ball passes into and out of a ball receiving cavity allowing the ball to be handled by the amputee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Therapeutic Recreation Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Radocy
  • Publication number: 20150031480
    Abstract: A game for at least 2 players wherein one of the players attempts to score points by hurling a plastic ball with the aid of a scoop racket into one of three scoring areas of their opponents “goal”. Opposing players stand at opposite ends of a playing field with said goal(s) positioned in front of each player. Goals are situated a certain distance apart from each other, the three scoring areas are mounted at adjustable heights above the playing surface and can be positioned in a common plane (or not). Said scoring areas are of various diameters and point values. Said scoring areas are distinctly apart from each other (not abutted) and are attached to a fixed post (standard). Points are awarded to players for hurling the ball into one of their opponent's scoring areas with point values inversely proportional to the diameter of the scoring area scored upon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventors: William F. Kidd, III, Andrew E. Matthews
  • Publication number: 20150018135
    Abstract: A lacrosse mesh configuration is provided. The mesh configuration can be coupled within a head of a lacrosse stick that is coupled to a handle. The mesh configuration includes a mesh in a folded condition, the mesh comprising a first portion and a second portion. The mesh configuration also includes a notch formed in the first portion. The notch provides access to the mesh of the second portion. The second portion accessible through the notch forms a pocket in response to stretching more than the remaining portion of the mesh that is in a doubled up configuration due to the folded condition. The mesh configuration provided also includes the use of at least two colors of thread or a plurality of colors of thread to form a repeatable mesh configuration, wherein the color configuration of the mesh is repeatable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: James Van Loon, III
  • Publication number: 20150018136
    Abstract: A method of making a lacrosse head is provided. The method includes providing a lacrosse head design to a 3D printer, providing a first printing material to the 3D printer, the first printing material including carbon fiber or fiberglass, and printing the lacrosse head with the 3-D printer using the lacrosse head design and the printing material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: James A. GOLDSTEIN, Jonathan BOND, Michael Kenneth HIGGINS
  • Publication number: 20150011341
    Abstract: A lacrosse head including a sidewall having upper and lower rails and an optional cross member. At least one of the upper and lower rails and cross member are cored out to define a recess. The recess can be partitioned by multiple trusses into multiple individual voids. The voids can be of increasing depth, progressing from shallower to deeper depths from the bottom rail to the upper rail. The lower rail can be reinforced with additional trusses near the base or ball stop of the head to add strength and rigidity there. The density of the trusses and/or cross sectional area of material can be altered in the upper rail, lower rail and cross member to selectively alter stiffness in those components. The stiffness of these components can also vary to provide different position heads, for example, attack, midfield and defense heads, with selectively different stiffness and strength characteristics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2014
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Inventors: Richard J. Janisse, Thomas H. Burns, Matthew W. McPhail
  • Publication number: 20150005113
    Abstract: A lacrosse pocket protector is provided. The lacrosse pocket protector includes a body portion formed of semi flexible material. Further, the lacrosse pocket protector includes a first connector for coupling around a throat of a head of a lacrosse stick; a second connector for coupling to a top portion of the head of the lacrosse stick; and a third connector for coupling around side walls of the head of the lacrosse stick. The body portion is placed in a curved position in response to coupling the first connector and the second connector to the head of the lacrosse stick. Additionally, the lacrosse pocket protector is moveable between an engaged and a disengaged position. In the disengaged position, the lacrosse pocket protector may be coupled to the head of the lacrosse stick. In the engaged position, the lacrosse pocket protector may be secured around the head of the lacrosse stick.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventor: Kevin Day
  • Publication number: 20140357432
    Abstract: A sheath for an article of athletic equipment having a shaft, which includes a cap and a rolled sheath. The cap is mounted on the free end of the athletic equipment and the sheath is unrolled onto the shaft to the desired length or the entire length of the shaft. The cap and sheath are preferably made from injection molded rubber, neoprene of other polymers that permit production in various thickness, colors and lengths. The elasticity of the material preferably gives it memory and durability. The diameter of the sheath is preferably smaller than the diameter of the shaft of the athletic equipment so that it stretches to a tight fit. After the sheath is unrolled to the desired length, excess material may be cut off, if desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Inventor: Vincent Pfeifer
  • Publication number: 20140349789
    Abstract: An aspect of the present invention relates to a lacrosse pocket comprising a preformed composite material including an outer edge for attaching to a lacrosse head and an interior channel within the outer edge having a desired concave shape and depth, wherein the interior channel, for receiving and releasing a lacrosse ball, permanently maintains the desired concave shape and depth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2014
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Inventors: ANDREW SZURLEY, VAN HILES, JIM STALLMAN
  • Publication number: 20140349788
    Abstract: A ladder-like shooting/catching section for a lacrosse stick pocket defined by at least two elongate runners (flat strips) extending from proximate the scoop of the head toward the throat, and a plurality of generally V-shaped chevrons straddling the runners and overmolded thereto. Alternately, the chevrons and runners are formed from a single material. The chevrons have a three-dimensional profile and each is slightly concave along its length, such that the chevrons collectively define a passing/catching chute. The chute increases surface contact with the ball and improves feel. This in combination with the shock-absorbing living hinge function provided by the chevrons makes throwing and catching smoother as well as more consistent, generally improving playability of the lacrosse stick.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2014
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Inventor: John Vajda
  • Patent number: 8876636
    Abstract: A lacrosse practice ball having a tether extending from the ball and attaching to a lacrosse stick to enable practicing of cradling or other short-range maneuvers is disclosed. In some embodiments, the tether extends from the ball by between 12-24 inches. The ball can have two channels passing through the middle of the ball and offset from one another by an angle, and the tether can pass through the channels. The tether forms a loop that can be knotted to secure the tether to the ball with the knot positioned within one of the channels. The practice ball can secure to any portion of the lacrosse stick using the tether.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventors: Trevor Rubel, Kiva Hartfield
  • Publication number: 20140323249
    Abstract: A head includes front surfaces and rear surfaces. The front surfaces are uncurved. A proximal portion of the front surfaces slopes gradually downwardly and a distal end of the front surfaces slope more dramatically toward the axis of elongation of the socket. The rear surfaces of the head slope downwardly until at approximately 60% of the distance in the proximal to distal direction, a deep pocket is provided, the rear surfaces curving back upwardly to converge toward the front surfaces and then curve back downwardly to meet at the arcuate distal scooping end of the head. A series of spaced holes are provided to facilitate stringing of a webbing about the rear surfaces of the head to provide a mid/high pocket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2013
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventors: James Miceli, Philip Naumburg
  • Patent number: 8864608
    Abstract: A weighted apparatus, such as a bat, bar, stick, racket, or club, includes added weight in one end of the apparatus to create an obviously heavy end, and thereby an unbalanced apparatus. The unbalanced apparatus gives the user the ability to create a heavy load to build strength by holding the light end of the device and a light load to build speed, endurance, and flexibility by holding the heavy end of the device. When swung holding the heavy end, such an unbalanced apparatus is uniquely effective for various sports practice regimens, certain game play, general exercise, physical rehabilitation, etc., to improve the user's strength and overall conditioning levels, to build hand speed and to promote a proper swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: HeavySwing, LLC.
    Inventor: Gerald Keith Rockhill
  • Publication number: 20140302951
    Abstract: Embodiments of a stringing arrangement that renders a pocket that combines features of both traditional-style and mesh-style. These embodiments offer a hybrid design that improves the “feel” and “hold” of a ball over current mesh-style pockets with a smoother release of the ball over traditional-style pockets. In one embodiment, the combination utilizes mesh material at the top of the pocket and traditional-style stringing at the bottom of the pocket. Unlike conventional technology, however, the embodiments combine the mesh-style and the traditional-style without disrupting the transition of the ball from the pocket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2014
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Inventors: David Philip White, Kevin John Youngs
  • Patent number: 8852035
    Abstract: A lacrosse head is disclosed, comprising: a frame having a base, a pair of sidewalls extending from the base, and a scoop connecting the pair of sidewalls opposite the base, the scoop defining an aperture for receiving a portion of a net, wherein the aperture has an upper edge and a lower edge, the lower edge having a first notch, a second notch, and a center portion intermediate to the first notch and the second notch. Also disclosed is a lacrosse stick comprising: an elongated shaft having a butt end and a head end, and a port formed through the head end; and a head attachable to the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Reebok International Limited
    Inventors: Ricardo Vestuti, Chad Wittman
  • Publication number: 20140274491
    Abstract: A sporting-good implement, such as a ball bat or a lacrosse stick, includes a first handle section rotatably connected to a second handle section. The second handle section may be attached to or integral with a tapered region or barrel region of a ball bat, or with a shaft section or head of a lacrosse stick, or with another sporting-good feature. This rotatable engagement allows the relative position of the user's hands to change during the course of a swing, shot, or pass, ideally placing the user's hands in a position to generate improved power or control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Keenan Long, Dewey Chauvin, Michael Lloyd Snow, Ian Montgomery, Steve J. Davis
  • Patent number: 8834305
    Abstract: Bamboo lacrosse shafts and methods for manufacturing bamboo lacrosse shafts are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Bamshaft, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Cain
  • Patent number: 8827849
    Abstract: The inventive lacrosse stick has a head with a distal end which features a pivotable distal plate. The distal edge of the distal plate is recessed proximally of the distal end of the head so that movements of the plate do not in any way change the fixed length of the stick defined by portions of the head distal of the distal edge of the plate. The distal plate may be made in one of two ways. First, the plate may be made of a separate piece coupled to the lacrosse head and pivotable with respect thereto. In this embodiment, a spring is provided that acts to pivot the distal plate downwardly and to be restored to that orientation whenever it is pivoted upwardly. In a second embodiment, the plate is integrally molded with the head to include a living hinge pivoted upwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Inventor: H. Jay Spiegel
  • Publication number: 20140243120
    Abstract: A multi-piece shaft for a lacrosse stick includes a first section connected to a second section at a joint. The joint may be located at various shaft regions to provide a desired kick point within the shaft. In one embodiment, an outer surface of the first shaft section is separated from an inner surface of the second shaft section via an elastomeric isolator. The elastomeric isolator may be an adhesive material that bonds or secures the outer surface of the first shaft section to the inner surface of the second shaft section. Two or more of these joints optionally may be included in the lacrosse shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Inventors: Dewey Chauvin, Robert T. Pearson, Ian Montgomery
  • Patent number: 8814730
    Abstract: A sheath for an article of athletic equipment having a shaft, which includes a cap and a rolled sheath. The cap is mounted on the free end of the athletic equipment and the sheath is unrolled onto the shaft to the desired length or the entire length of the shaft. The cap and sheath are preferably made from injection molded rubber, neoprene of other polymers that permit production in various thickness, colors and lengths. The elasticity of the material preferably gives it memory and durability. The diameter of the sheath is preferably smaller than the diameter of the shaft of the athletic equipment so that it stretches to a tight fit. After the sheath is unrolled to the desired length, excess material may be cut off, if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Inventor: Vincent Pfeifer
  • Publication number: 20140235376
    Abstract: A reinforced object of the invention comprises: at least one structural layer; and at least one reinforcing rod positioned on or within the at least one structural layer, wherein the object is an elongated object, with the at least one reinforcing rod longitudinally positioned essentially parallel to a central axis thereof. A method of manufacturing the reinforced object comprises steps of: providing a mold; and positioning the at least one reinforcing rod such that it is positioned on or within the at least one structural layer in the reinforced object formed in the mold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: ENTROTECH COMPOSITES, LLC
    Inventors: James E. McGuire, JR., Andrew C. Strange
  • Publication number: 20140235377
    Abstract: A shaft lock for interconnection of an elongate tubular lacrosse handle and a plastic lacrosse head. The shaft lock comprises an elastomeric insert compression-fitted inside the handle. The insert has a compressible body portion which, in an uncompressed form generally conforms to the interior walls of the handle and is defined by a plurality of co-planar ribs that span the interior walls of the handle. A hard screw-anchor is embedded within the elastomer insert, and the insert is anchored inside the handle by at least one screw threaded through the handle into the screw-anchor from top-to-bottom, the screw(s) engaging the screw anchor and compressing it against the elastomeric insert. The threaded engagement of the screw(s) through the wall of the handle and into the screw-anchor compresses the elastomeric insert, maintaining a constant tension against the screw(s) and against the interior walls of the handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Inventors: Anthony Abdelmalek, Michael Schmittdiel, John Vajda
  • Patent number: 8808120
    Abstract: Bamboo lacrosse shafts and methods of manufacturing bamboo lacrosse shafts are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Bamshaft, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Cain