Pole vaulting device and method

Abstract

A pole vaulting device and method. The device includes a mat having a top side and an underside, a plurality of support poles positioned about the mat, with the plurality of support poles having a first end having a curved portion oriented in the direction of the mat, and a net having an outer periphery, and wherein the net's outer periphery is attached to the curved portion of the plurality of support poles. The pole vaulting device may further include a plurality of straps having a distal end attached to the underside of the mat and a proximal end attached to the net so that the net forms a bowl section.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] This invention relates to a pole vaulting device. More specifically, but not by way of limitation, this invention relates to a pole vaulting net device and method. [0002] Pole vaulting is an exciting, challenging sport. In the early days of the sport, the poles utilized were made of bamboo and the pit contained saw dust. Now, the poles are made of high tech synthetic plastics and the pits contain mats. The poles are longer and stronger, and the athletes are jumping ever higher distances. As those active in the sport will recognize, greater heights entail greater risk. [0003] One of the most common injuries are those associated with the pole vaulter landing improperly onto the mat. In other words, after the pole vaulter utilizes the pole to vault him (or her) into the air, the pole vaulter may land in such a way that causes serious injure to him (or her). For instance, the pole vaulter may land face forward in the vaulter's planting box, or the pole...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0012] An advantage of the present invention is that the device can be used to help prevent injuries from pole vaulting. Another advantage is that the device can be used to safely catch the vaulter. Another advantage is that the device can be used as a safety net. Another advantage is that the device can be used in areas of limited space. Yet another advantage is that the device is easily disassembled and moved. Another advantage is that the invention can be used with existing safety equipment i.e. prior art mats. Still yet another advantage is that the device is economical to manufacture.

[0013] A feature of the present invention is the curved support poles which attach to the net. Another feature is that the net, once installed, forms a bowl section. Yet another feature is that the net is attached to the underside of mat so that the weight of the mat acts as an anchor. Another feature is the variable width and length of the base frame. Still yet another feature is the selectively attachable stands for the support poles.

Problems solved by technology

As those active in the sport will recognize, greater heights entail greater risk.

In other words, after the pole vaulter utilizes the pole to vault him (or her) into the air, the pole vaulter may land in such a way that causes serious injure to him (or her).

For instance, the pole vaulter may land face forward in the vaulter's planting box, or the pole vaulter may completely miss the mat, or the pole vaulter may bounce off the mat and onto the ground.

However, this safety technique requires the horizontal application of mats, which may be cost prohibitive.

Additionally, many track and field areas have limited space thereby limiting the usefulness of large horizontal mats.

However, these designs still require the application of horizontal mat placement to solve the problem.

Further, these prior art designs are awkward and expensive.

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