Apparatus and method for a retractable basketball backboard and hoop assembly

Abstract

A basketball backboard and hoop apparatus including a basketball backboard and hoop assembly, wherein the basketball backboard and hoop assembly, further includes a backboard, and a hoop, a support arm for supporting the basketball backboard and hoop assembly, and a guiding device. The support arm is moveable along the guiding device. At least one of the support arm and the guiding device is curved in shape. The basketball backboard and hoop assembly is moved from a first position inside the structure to a second position outside the structure.

Description

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 504,150, filed Sep. 19, 2003, and entitled “APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR A RETRACTABLE BASKETBALL BACKBOARD AND HOOP ASSEMBLY”, the subject matter of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention pertains to an apparatus and a method for a retractable basketball backboard and hoop assembly and, in particular, to an apparatus for a retractable basketball backboard and hoop assembly which can be deployed from a stored position or non-use position to an in-use position and which can also be retractable from an in-use position to a stored position or non-use position and a method of using same. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] The game of basketball is a very popular game which is traditionally played with a backboard and hoop which can typically be mounted on a rigid structure, a building, and / or a pole, or other structure. Baske...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0013] The apparatus can also include a guiding device which is used to support a support arm which is connected to and supports the basketball backboard and hoop assembly of the apparatus. The support arm is slideably moveable along and / or within the guiding device. The support arm can have longitudinal slots located along and through the sides thereof. The support arm can be slideably situated within the guiding device by using a support arm alignment bolt or other hardware, which can facilitate the slideable movement of the support arm along and / or within the guiding device. The hardware can also serve to secure the support arm to the guiding device.

[0060] It is another object of the present invention to provide an apparatus and a method for providing a retractable basketball backboard and hoop assembly which can also be utilized with a control device which, upon automatically ascertaining or determining a non-use of the basketball backboard and hoop assembly, can automatically return the basketball backboard and hoop assembly and / or any other components of the apparatus to a stored position or a non-use position.

Problems solved by technology

However, during snow, rain, ice, extreme hot and / or humid weather, and / or other inclement weather conditions, basketball playing can be curtailed due to the adverse effects these weather and / or environmental conditions may have on individuals.

Once installed, however, the basketball backboard and hoop assembly or assemblies can interfere with other uses of the court or facility, thereby rendering the court or facility unsuitable for use as a handball court, a racquetball court, or other court or facility which requires freedom from obstructions.

The need for providing a safe structure for deploying the basketball backboard and hoop assembly is yet another problem which can constrain the play of basketball.

These portable units, however, can be awkward to move or transport and / or may not be easily maneuvered by younger individuals.

Portable backboard and hoop assemblies can also present a danger of tipping over, consume limited garage storage space, and / or can be hit by automobiles.

For example, the assembly can only be utilized outdoors, its installation on the garage door can violate most manufacturer use and maintenance guidelines because of weight imbalances caused thereby, the garage door may require a prop or other device to hold it open, the basketball assembly can pose a risk of hitting a car when the garage door is opened or closed, the basketball assembly can take up or reduce available parking space, and / or the basketball assembly can pose a safety risk to individuals during garage door opening and / or closing.

Images