Sports ball with suspension system

Abstract

A sporting ball, such as a soccer ball, includes a hollow shell and a core suspended within the hollow shell by a plurality of cords. In some embodiments, the plurality of cords may include a first end connected to the hollow shell at a first location, a second end connected to the hollow shell at a second location, and a central portion connected to the core. In some embodiments, the core may be suspended within the hollow shell by the plurality of cords, wherein each of the plurality of cords includes a location secured to a loose end of the hollow shell at one of a plurality of spaced-apart locations.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a sport ball, particularly a ball used in American football or soccer. Background Technology

[0002] A sporting ball used in sports activities, such as a soccer ball, may include a hollow shell, including a bladder. The hollow shell may be empty, or it may include one or more electronic devices to provide information about various parameters of the sporting activity. This information may include the ball's position at any time during the sporting activity, the ball's parameters, and / or the performance of individual players. This information may be desirable for individuals watching the game, referees and others monitoring the game to ensure compliance with the rules, or for training or athlete performance and medical monitoring.

[0003] Incorporating electronics within a hollow shell to enable accurate and consistent information collection is challenging, especially in larger spheres with expandable bladders. Solutions to overcome the challenges of providing electronics within a hollow shell may be difficult to implement and can significantly increase manufacturing costs. There is a need for innovative solutions to overcome these challenges. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The first embodiment (1) of this disclosure relates to a sports ball comprising: a hollow shell; and a core suspended within the hollow shell by a plurality of ropes, each of the plurality of ropes comprising a first end connected to the hollow shell at a first position, a second end connected to the hollow shell at a second position, and a central portion connected to the core.

[0005] In the second embodiment (2), the first position according to the first embodiment (1) includes a first liner attached to the outer surface of the hollow shell, and the second position includes a second liner attached to the outer surface of the hollow shell.

[0006] In the third embodiment (3), each of the multiple ropes according to the second embodiment (2) is a fiber rope, the first end of which includes frayed fibers of the rope, and the frayed fibers are bonded to the first pad.

[0007] In the fourth embodiment (4), the first pad according to the third embodiment (3) includes a first pad layer and a second pad layer, and the loose fibers according to the third embodiment (3) are sandwiched between the first pad layer and the second pad layer.

[0008] In the fifth embodiment (5), the first padding layer according to the fourth embodiment (4) includes an opening through which a first end of a rope is received.

[0009] In the sixth embodiment (6), the scattered fibers according to the fifth embodiment (5) extend radially from the opening.

[0010] In the seventh embodiment (7), the first padding layer according to any one of embodiments (4)-(6) includes a first effective diameter, and the second padding layer according to any one of embodiments (4)-(6) includes a second effective diameter greater than the first effective diameter.

[0011] In the eighth embodiment (8), the first liner, the second liner, and the hollow shell of any of embodiments (2)-(7) contain the same material.

[0012] In the ninth embodiment (9), the central portion of each of the multiple ropes in any of embodiments (1)-(8) is passed through the core and encircled.

[0013] In the tenth embodiment (10), the central portion of each of the multiple ropes according to any one of embodiments (1)-(9) includes a knot arranged in one of a plurality of inserts located on the outer surface of the core.

[0014] In the eleventh embodiment (11), the central portion of each of the multiple ropes according to any one of embodiments (1)-(9) passes through one of the multiple grooves located on the outer surface of the core.

[0015] In the twelfth embodiment (12), the central portion of each of the multiple ropes according to the eleventh embodiment (11) includes a knot arranged in one of the multiple grooves.

[0016] In the thirteenth embodiment (13), each of the plurality of grooves according to the twelfth embodiment (12) includes a first bend, a second bend, and a socket connecting the first bend and the second bend.

[0017] In the fourteenth embodiment (14), the knot of each of the multiple ropes according to the thirteenth embodiment (13) is arranged in the insertion of one of the multiple grooves.

[0018] In the fifteenth embodiment (15), each of the multiple ropes according to the thirteenth embodiment (13) or the fourteenth embodiment (14) extends from a first bend in one of the multiple grooves to a corresponding position in the first position, and from a second bend in one of the multiple grooves to a corresponding position in the second position.

[0019] In the sixteenth embodiment (16), the core according to any one of embodiments (1)-(9) includes a plurality of sockets, each socket including a recessed portion surrounded by a wall.

[0020] In the seventeenth embodiment (17), the central portion of each of the multiple ropes according to the sixteenth embodiment (16) is fixed in a recessed portion of one of the insertion holes.

[0021] In the eighteenth embodiment (18), each of the multiple ropes according to any one of embodiments (1)-(16) includes a first rope extending from the outer surface of the core along a first axis and a second rope extending from the outer surface of the core along a second axis.

[0022] In the nineteenth embodiment (19), the angle (α) between the first axis and the second axis according to the eighteenth embodiment (18) is greater than or equal to 10 degrees.

[0023] In the twentieth embodiment (20), the first and second positions according to any one of embodiments (1)-(19) are equidistantly spaced around the surface region of the hollow shell.

[0024] In the twenty-first embodiment (21), each of the multiple ropes according to any one of embodiments (1)-(20) is a continuous rope extending from the first end to the second end.

[0025] In the twenty-second embodiment (22), the hollow shell according to any one of embodiments (1)-(21) includes an expandable bladder.

[0026] In the twenty-third embodiment (23), the core according to any one of embodiments (1)-(22) includes an electronic device.

[0027] In the twenty-fourth embodiment (24), the electronic device according to the eighteenth embodiment (23) includes a battery and a wireless transmitter.

[0028] In the twenty-fifth embodiment (25), the electronic device according to the twenty-third embodiment (23) or the twenty-fourth embodiment (24) includes a sensor selected from the group consisting of: pressure sensor, global positioning system sensor, accelerometer, magnetometer, gyroscope, Hall sensor, temperature sensor, cellular phone module, and combinations thereof.

[0029] In the twenty-sixth embodiment (26), the core according to any one of embodiments (1)-(25) comprises a mass block ranging from 22 grams to 26 grams.

[0030] In the twenty-seventh embodiment (27), the core according to any one of embodiments (1)-(25) comprises a mass block of less than or equal to 50 grams.

[0031] The twenty-eighth embodiment (28) of this disclosure relates to a method of manufacturing a sports ball, the method comprising: connecting a plurality of ropes to a core, such that each rope includes a first end, a second end, and a central portion connected to the core; disposing the core within a hollow shell, the hollow shell including a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings; pulling a first end of each rope through a corresponding one of the plurality of first openings; pulling a second end of each rope through a corresponding one of the plurality of second openings; attaching a plurality of first pads to the first end of each rope pulled through a corresponding one of the plurality of first openings, each first pad being attached to a corresponding one of the first ends; attaching a plurality of second pads to the second end of each rope pulled through a corresponding one of the plurality of second openings, each second pad being attached to a corresponding one of the second ends; bonding each of the first pads to the hollow shell at a corresponding one of the first openings; and bonding each of the second pads to the hollow shell at a corresponding one of the second openings.

[0032] In the twenty-ninth embodiment (29), each of the first gasket and the second gasket is joined to the hollow housing (28) according to the twenty-eighth embodiment to seal a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings.

[0033] In the thirtieth embodiment (30), according to the twenty-eighth embodiment (28) or the twenty-ninth embodiment (29), attaching a plurality of first pads to the first end of each rope includes shredding the first end of each rope and using an adhesive to glue the shredded first end to the first pad.

[0034] In the thirty-first embodiment (31), the first end of each rope being abraded according to the thirty-tenth embodiment (30) includes unscrewing the rope.

[0035] In the thirty-second embodiment (32), attaching a plurality of first pads to the first end of each rope according to the thirty-first embodiment (30) or the thirty-first embodiment (31) also includes a curing adhesive.

[0036] In the thirty-third embodiment (33), the adhesive (32) according to the thirty-second embodiment includes a rubber adhesive, and the curing adhesive includes vulcanized rubber.

[0037] In the thirty-fourth embodiment (34), the central portion of each of the multiple ropes according to any one of embodiments (28)-(33) includes a knot.

[0038] In the thirty-fifth embodiment (35), the method according to any one of embodiments (28)-(34) further includes cutting a first end of each rope pulled through a corresponding one of the plurality of first openings and a second end of each rope pulled through a corresponding one of the plurality of second openings, such that the plurality of ropes include: a first rope line extending from the outer surface of the core and having a first length measured from the outer surface to the first end; and a second rope line extending from the outer surface of the core and having a second length measured from the outer surface to the second end, and the second length being equal to the first length.

[0039] The thirty-sixth embodiment (36) of the present invention relates to a sports ball comprising: a hollow shell; and a core suspended within the hollow shell by a plurality of ropes, each of the plurality of ropes being fixed to a break end of the hollow shell at one of a plurality of spaced-apart locations.

[0040] In the thirty-seventh embodiment (37), each of the spaced-out positions according to the thirty-sixth embodiment (36) includes a liner bonded to the outer surface of the hollow shell.

[0041] In the thirty-eighth embodiment (38), the broken end of each rope according to the thirty-seventh embodiment (37) is attached to the pad at each correspondingly spaced position.

[0042] In the thirty-ninth embodiment (39), the loose end of each rope according to any one of embodiments (36)-(38) includes loose fibers having a length of 10 mm or more. Attached Figure Description

[0043] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure. The drawings, together with the specification, further serve to explain the principles therein and to enable those skilled in the art to make and use the disclosed embodiments.

[0044] Figure 1 A ball according to some embodiments is shown.

[0045] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A perspective view of the inside of the sphere.

[0046] Figure 3 A perspective view of the core according to some embodiments is shown.

[0047] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a core according to some embodiments is shown.

[0048] Figure 5 Illustrations are shown according to some embodiments Figure 1 The hollow shell of the sphere.

[0049] Figure 6 A ball according to some embodiments is shown.

[0050] Figure 7A A perspective view of a liner according to some embodiments is shown.

[0051] Figure 7B It shows Figure 7A Plan view of the padding.

[0052] Figure 8 Illustrations are shown according to some embodiments Figure 1 A perspective view of the ball during the process of manufacturing the ball.

[0053] Figure 9 Manufacturing according to some embodiments is shown. Figure 1 The method of playing with the ball.

[0054] Figure 10 Manufacturing according to some embodiments is shown. Figure 1 The method of playing with the ball. Detailed Implementation

[0055] Embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. References to "one / an embodiment," "example embodiment," etc., indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic; however, each embodiment may not necessarily include that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, these phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Additionally, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is believed that incorporating other embodiments to affect that feature, structure, or characteristic is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art, whether explicitly described or not.

[0056] The system and method described herein provide a sports ball for use in sports activities. The sports ball may have a hollow shell and a suspension system for suspending a core within the hollow shell. The hollow shell may include a bladder. In a particular embodiment, the bladder may be an inflatable bladder. The suspension system of the ball may include one or more cords coupled to the hollow shell. The cords (one or more) may be continuous cords having a first end and a second end coupled to the hollow shell at spaced-apart locations. The cords may be coupled to the core and the hollow shell such that the cords are under tension within the sports ball. The tension in the cords may position, support, and cushion the core within the hollow shell.

[0057] The sports ball according to embodiments described herein provides an improved system and method for supporting a central mass mass within a hollow shell of the sports ball. The suspension system according to embodiments described herein is designed and constructed to concentrate the mass of the suspension system at the center of the ball—at or around the core suspended by the suspension system. The ropes and the locations where the ropes connect to the hollow shell can have a lightweight design that concentrates the mass of the system at the center of the ball. In some embodiments, the design and construction of the suspension system and core described herein optimizes the weight characteristics of the ball to comply with official sports regulations, such as International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) standards.

[0058] Furthermore, the suspension system described herein can be used to suspend one or more electronic devices within a hollow housing to secure the equipment and cushion any mechanical loads generated during use due to the ball's deformation or acceleration. During sporting events, detecting acceleration can be important, for example, to determine when the ball is kicked. Information about when the ball is kicked can be correlated with various player position information, such as determining if a player is in an offside position. Additionally, knowing the ball's exact position can be important, such as determining if the ball has crossed the goal line. Therefore, the electronic devices must perform optimally to provide accurate positional information. The suspension system described herein secures the electronic devices at the center of the ball, such that the devices are consistently positioned at the intersection of the ball's central longitudinal and lateral axes. This securing of the electronic devices as the ball undergoes deformation and spin limits or prevents operational interference and any impact on the accuracy of the information collected by the electronic devices. The suspension system also reliably limits or prevents damage to the electronic devices because they are fixed at the center of the ball.

[0059] A method of manufacturing a sports ball according to embodiments described herein may include: attaching one or more ropes to the core and hollow shell at spaced-apart locations, as described herein. In some embodiments, the spaced-apart locations may be equidistant on a surface area of ​​the hollow shell. In some embodiments, one or more ropes may be attached to the hollow shell by attaching opposite ends of the ropes to the hollow shell at two spaced-apart locations. In some embodiments, one or more ropes may be attached to the hollow shell by attaching opposite ends of the ropes to separate pads attached to the hollow shell at spaced-apart locations. In some embodiments, the suspension system and core may be manufactured without requiring the hollow shell to be flipped from the inside out.

[0060] A rope according to an embodiment described herein may include: a first end connected to a hollow shell at a first location, a central portion connected to the core, and a second end connected to the hollow shell at a second location opposite the first end. Thus, a rope can pass through the hollow shell, through the sphere, to the core, and back to the hollow shell. The two locations where the rope is connected to the hollow shell can be referred to as anchor points for suspending the core.

[0061] The central portion of the rope can be connected to the core using one or more of the following fastening mechanisms that securely link the rope to the core. These fastening mechanisms ensure that the core remains in the desired position within the hollow shell during use of the ball.

[0062] In some embodiments, the central portion may be attached to the core using an adhesive.

[0063] In some embodiments, the central portion can be connected to the core by overmolding a portion of the core onto the central portion of the rope.

[0064] In some embodiments, the central portion of the rope can be attached to the core by passing through a groove in the core. In some embodiments, the rope can be attached to the core by securing the central portion of the rope within a groove in the core. In some embodiments, the central portion of the rope may include a mass block secured within a groove in the core. In some embodiments, the mass block may be a knot in the rope, a separate piece attached to the central portion of the rope, or a combination thereof.

[0065] In some embodiments, a rope can be attached to a core by securing the central portion of the rope within a socket in the core. In some embodiments, the central portion of the rope may include a mass block secured within a socket in the core. In some embodiments, the mass block may be a knot in the rope, a separate piece attached to the central portion of the rope, or a combination of both. In some embodiments, the socket may include a wall for securing the mass block in place.

[0066] In some embodiments, a rope can be attached to the core by wrapping around a groove passing through the core and securing the central portion of the rope within a socket in the groove. In such an embodiment, the groove may include a first end and a second end connected by a socket. A socket disposed between the first and second ends may be formed on the outer surface of the core and configured to receive a mass block at the central portion of the rope. In such an embodiment, the rope may extend from the socket and exit the core at the first and second ends of the groove, respectively.

[0067] In embodiments where a knot is included in the central portion of the rope, the knot can be tightened, for example, by a pneumatic system, before the rope is attached to the core. Tightening the knot before installation ensures that it will not be tightened again during the use of the ball, thus preventing the rope from coming loose.

[0068] The first and second ends of the rope can be connected to the hollow shell using one or more of the following fastening mechanisms, which securely connect the first and second ends to a first position and a second position on the hollow shell, respectively.

[0069] In some embodiments, the first and second ends of the rope can be attached to the hollow shell using an adhesive. In some embodiments, the first and second ends of the rope can be attached to the hollow shell using a gasket bonded to the hollow shell with an adhesive. In some embodiments, the first and second ends of the rope can be directly attached to the hollow shell. For example, the first and second ends of the rope can be directly thermally bonded to the hollow shell.

[0070] In some embodiments, the first and second ends of the rope can be coupled to the hollow shell by clamping each of the first and second ends between two padding layers of the liner. In such embodiments, the liner, including the padding layers, can be bonded to the hollow shell, thereby coupling the first and second ends to the hollow shell. In some embodiments, the liner can be bonded to the outer surface of the hollow shell. In some embodiments, the first and second ends can be glued to the padding layers. In some embodiments, the first and second ends can be flattened on the padding layers such that each of the first and second ends spans all or a portion of the entire effective diameter of the padding layer. In some embodiments, the first and second ends can be frayed to form a flat portion for attachment to the liner. In such embodiments, the frayed end can increase the effective diameter of the rope to increase the surface area for securing the rope to the liner.

[0071] Providing one or more continuous ropes as described herein simplifies nuclear suspension and reduces manufacturing costs. For example, the number of ropes required to suspend the nuclear within the hollow shell can be minimized, thereby minimizing material costs. Furthermore, one or more ropes as described herein can minimize the weight added to the sphere by the suspension system. In some embodiments, the ropes described herein can be paracord, providing high strength and slight elasticity with a low weight, further limiting the weight increase due to the inclusion of the suspension system.

[0072] In some embodiments, the core may be a central mass block without any electronic components. In such embodiments, the core can be used to increase the weight of a moving ball without contributing any electronic features.

[0073] In some embodiments, the core may include one or more electronic devices. In some embodiments, the core may include a sensor housing that includes one or more electronic devices to provide information about various parameters of the sporting activity. The electronic devices may include a battery, a wireless transmitter, one or more sensors, or any combination thereof. In embodiments including one or more sensors, the sensors can provide information about various parameters of the sporting activity. This information may include the position of the ball at any time during the sporting activity, ball parameters such as ball acceleration, velocity, and position, and / or the performance of individual athletes. In embodiments including a wireless transmitter, the transmitter can facilitate the transmission of the sensed information to one or more stakeholders.

[0074] In some embodiments, the core and electronic equipment can be assembled separately from the rope. In some embodiments, the rope and hollow housing can be assembled separately from the core and electronic equipment. In some embodiments, one or more first securing devices can be used to cut the rope to an appropriate length. A first rope and a second rope can extend along the first securing device and be secured to the first securing device to cut the rope. These first securing devices can be removed from the ball after assembly, for example, after cutting the rope. In some embodiments, a second securing device can be used to attach a first end and a second end of the rope to one or more patches. In some embodiments, a thin plate can be arranged at the end of one of the second securing devices, the thin plate supporting the rope end on a patch attached to the outer surface of the hollow housing. In some embodiments, a plate can be attached to the patch. In some embodiments, the plate can form a single patch. In some embodiments, the rope end can pass through an opening in the plate. Thus, the plate can extend around the rope end. In some embodiments, the plate extends partially around the rope end. During assembly, the second securing device can anchor the plate such that the rope end can pass through the plate. The rope end can extend from the opening in the plate onto the plate such that the length of the end is fixed. In this way, the final length of the rope extending from the core can be fixed. In some embodiments, the rope end is abraded. The damaged end can be folded outward and attached to the plate. The plate can be glued to a patch or patch layer to attach the damaged end to the patch or patch layer. The plate can have any suitable shape, such as circular, rectangular, or triangular. Additionally, in some embodiments, the plate may not extend along the entire perimeter of the opening surrounding the plate.

[0075] The patch, hollow shell, and plate may comprise the same or different materials. For example, the patch may be made of the same material as the hollow shell. In some embodiments, the patch and hollow shell may comprise materials of the same material class (e.g., rubber). The patch and plate together may form a liner, such that the plate is a first liner layer and the patch is a second liner layer. Openings may be formed in the hollow shell to allow ropes to extend through, such that ropes can be bonded to the first and / or second liner layers. In such embodiments, the first and / or second liner layers may comprise an effective diameter larger than the opening to allow the inner sides of the first and / or second liner layers to bond to the hollow shell.

[0076] Figure 1 A ball 100 according to some embodiments is shown, which includes a suspension system 110 for suspending a core 140 within a hollow shell 130. The ball 100 can be used in sports activities such as football, basketball, volleyball, rugby, American football, tennis, etc. In some embodiments, the ball 100 includes an outer layer 120 and a hollow shell 130. In some embodiments, the hollow shell 130 may include a bladder. In some embodiments, the hollow shell 130 may include an expandable bladder. In some embodiments, the hollow shell 130 may be disposed within the outer layer 120.

[0077] In the case of a soccer ball, the outer layer 120 may include multiple panels (e.g., pentagonal or hexagonal) that are glued, sewn, or welded together. In some embodiments, a bladder may be disposed between the outer layer 120 and the hollow shell 130 to reinforce the hollow shell 130. In such embodiments, the bladder may help prevent damage to the hollow shell 130 from external impacts, improve the shape stability of the ball 100, or both. In some embodiments, the bladder may include a band or the like wrapped around the bladder. In some embodiments, the bladder may be glued to the hollow shell 130.

[0078] The hollow shell 130 may include an outer surface 132 and an interior 134. In some embodiments, the outer surface 132 may include a suitable coating, such as a transparent film, such that the hollow shell 130 itself can be used as a ball without requiring a separate outer layer, such as outer layer 120. The interior 134 may be a hollow portion or void in the hollow shell 130. Another exemplary structure of a soccer ball is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,306,054, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0079] The suspension system 110 within the hollow shell 130 can be used to position, support, cushion, and restore the position of one or more cores 140 disposed within the hollow shell 130 (i.e., within the interior 134). The cores 140 can be suspended within the hollow shell 130 by one or more ropes 170. In some embodiments, the cores 140 can be suspended within the hollow shell 130 by multiple ropes 170.

[0080] Each of the plurality of ropes 170 may include a first end 172, a central portion 180, and a second end 184. The first end 172 and the second end 184 may be opposite proximal portions of each rope 170. The central portion 180 may include a portion of the rope 170 located at the center of its length, the length of which is measured from the first end 172 to the second end 184. In some embodiments, the central portion 180 of the rope 170 may include a portion of the rope located at the center point of the length of the rope 170.

[0081] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of ropes 170 may be a continuous rope 170 extending from a first end 172 to a second end 184. In such embodiments, a continuous rope 170 may pass from the hollow shell 130 through the ball 100, reach the core 140, and return to the hollow shell 130. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of ropes 170 may include a plurality of rope segments joined together to form a continuous rope 170 extending from the first end 172 to the second end 184. In some embodiments, rope 170 may include one or more paracords. In some embodiments, rope 170 may be paracord. In some embodiments, rope 170 may include nylon. In some embodiments, rope 170 may include polyester. In some embodiments, rope 170 may include both nylon and polyester. In some embodiments, rope 170 may include rubber. In some embodiments, rope 170 may include... (para-aramid). In some embodiments, the rope 170 may include molded rubber and...

[0082] A first end 172 of each respective rope 170 may be attached to the hollow shell 130 at a first position 106. A second end 184 of each respective rope 170 may be attached to the hollow shell 130 at a second position 108 spaced apart from the first position. The first position 106 and the second position 108 of each rope 170 connected to the hollow shell 130 may be referred to as anchor points for suspending the core 140. In some embodiments, the first position 106 and the second position 108 may be positions on the outer surface 132 of the hollow shell 130.

[0083] The central portion 180 of each respective rope 170 may be connected to the core 140. In some embodiments, the central portion 180 of each respective rope 170 may be connected to the outer surface 142 of the core 140. In some embodiments, the central portion 180 of each respective rope 170 may be connected to a fastening mechanism located on the outer surface 142 of the core 140.

[0084] As discussed herein, the hollow shell 130 and ropes 170 can provide a suspension system for the core 140. In some embodiments, the core 140 can be suspended such that it is located at the geometric center of the hollow shell 130. In other words, the core 140 can be located at the intersection of the central longitudinal axis 101 and the central transverse axis 103 of the hollow shell 130. The core 140 can be held in this central position by one or more ropes 170 as described herein.

[0085] In some embodiments, each rope 170 may include a first rope line 176 extending from the outer surface 142 of the core 140 along a first axis 178. In such embodiments, the first rope line 176 may be a linear portion of the rope 170 extending along the first axis 178. The first rope line 176 may extend to a first location 106 to attach a first end 172 of the rope 170 to the hollow housing 130.

[0086] Similarly, each of the plurality of ropes 170 may include a second rope line 188 extending from the outer surface 142 of the core 140 along the second axis 190. In such an embodiment, the second rope line 188 may be a linear portion of the rope 170 extending along the second axis 190. The second rope line 188 may extend to a second location 108 to attach a second end 184 of the rope 170 to the hollow shell 130.

[0087] In some embodiments, the angle (α) between the first axis 178 and the second axis 190 may be between 5 degrees and 90 degrees, between 5 degrees and 60 degrees, or between 5 degrees and 30 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle (α) may be greater than or equal to 10 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle (α) may be greater than or equal to 20 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle (α) may be greater than or equal to 30 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle (α) may be greater than or equal to 60 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle (α) may be between 10 degrees and 90 degrees, between 10 degrees and 80 degrees, between 10 degrees and 60 degrees, between 20 degrees and 90 degrees, between 20 degrees and 80 degrees, between 20 degrees and 60 degrees, between 30 degrees and 90 degrees, or between 30 degrees and 80 degrees.

[0088] In some embodiments, the angle (α) can create a desired distance between a spaced-apart first position 106 and a second position 108 on the hollow housing 130. In some embodiments, the angle (α) between a first axis and a second axis of each rope 170 can be selected such that the first position 106 and the second position 108 are equidistantly spaced around a surface area of ​​the hollow housing 130.

[0089] In some embodiments, the first position 106 and the second position 108 may be equidistantly spaced apart radially by a distance 109 on the hollow housing 130. In such embodiments, the radial distance 109 between specific positions (e.g., the first position 106 or the second position 108) may be spaced apart by the same radial distance 109 from its nearest radially adjacent position (e.g., adjacent first positions 106 and second positions 108). In this way, each first position 106 (where a first end 172 is coupled to the hollow housing 130) and each second position 108 (where a second end 184 is coupled to the hollow housing 130) may be equidistantly spaced apart on the sphere 100. In some embodiments, depending on the diameter of the sphere 100, the distance 109 may be greater than 5 cm or greater than 30 cm.

[0090] In some embodiments, ball 100 may include 2 to 15 cords 170, or 5 to 10 cords 170. In some embodiments, ball 100 may include six cords 170. Typically, ball 100 may include the same number of cords 170, first positions 106, and second positions 108. For example, ball 100 may include six cords 170, six first positions 106, and six second positions 108, with a first end 172 of each corresponding cord 170 at the six first positions connected to a hollow shell 130, and a second end 184 of each corresponding cord 170 at the six second positions connected to a hollow shell 130.

[0091] As discussed herein, rope 170 is used to suspend the core 140 within the hollow shell 130 by being connected to both the hollow shell 130 and the core 140. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of ropes 170 may be connected to the core 140 to suspend the core 140. In some embodiments, the central portion 180 of each of the plurality of ropes 170 may be connected to the core 140.

[0092] The central portion 180 of each of the multiple ropes can be connected to the hollow shell 130 at a corresponding connector 141. Each connector 141 can securely connect the central portion 180 of the rope 170 to the core 140 using one or more of the following fastening mechanisms.

[0093] In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism may include an adhesive. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism may include an opening in the core 140. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism may include a void formed in the core 140 by overmolding a portion of the core 140 onto the central portion 180 of the rope 170. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism may include a groove, such as groove 146. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism may include a socket, such as socket 150. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism may include a combination of a groove and a socket, such as groove 146 including socket 150. That is, in some embodiments, the fastening mechanism may include a groove without a socket, or a socket without a groove. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism may include a clamp or similar friction fastening device. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism may include a hook.

[0094] In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism may include an overmolded portion of the rope 170 that slides into a groove or slot in the core 140. In some embodiments, the rope 170 may include a coiled portion fitted into the core 140 to fasten the rope 170 within the core 140. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism may be attached to the rope 170 and mounted to the core 140. For example, the rope 170 may be attached to a U-shaped bracket, the end of which may be fitted into the core 140. In such embodiments, a lock may be fitted into the core 140 to secure the end of the bracket within the core 140, thereby securing the rope 170 to the core 140.

[0095] In some embodiments, the rope 170 may pass through an opening in the core 140, which serves as a fastening mechanism. In such embodiments, the rope 170 may include one or more intermediately widened mass blocks (e.g., knots) positioned within the core 140 between the openings to prevent the rope 170 from releasing from the core 140. In some embodiments, the outer surface 142 of the core 140 may include one or more cable strain relief mechanisms serving as a fastening mechanism. In such embodiments, the rope 170 may wrap around three or more grooves of the strain relief mechanism in alternating directions.

[0096] In some embodiments, the outer surface 142 of the core 140 may include a fastening mechanism through which the rope 170 may be wrapped. In such embodiments, the fastening mechanism may be a U-shaped bracket having an end secured to the core 140. In some embodiments, a coil (e.g., a metal coil) may be secured around the rope 170 adjacent to the fastening mechanism to position and lock the rope 170 onto the core 140. In some embodiments, an overmolded portion may be formed around the rope 170 adjacent to the fastening mechanism to position and lock the rope 170. In some embodiments, a C-clamp may be secured around the rope 170 adjacent to the fastening mechanism to position and lock the rope 170. In some embodiments, a heat-shrinkable tube may be secured around the rope 170 adjacent to the fastening mechanism to position and lock the rope 170.

[0097] In some embodiments, each rope 170 may be attached to the core 140 in the same manner (i.e., using the same type of fastening mechanism). In some embodiments, different ropes 170 may be attached to the core 140 in different manner (i.e., using different types of fastening mechanisms). For example, one rope 170 may loop around a groove on the outer surface 142, while another rope 170 may loop around a structurally different groove on the outer surface 142. In another example, one rope 170 may be attached to the outer surface 142, while another rope 170 may loop around a groove on the outer surface 142.

[0098] In some embodiments, the central portion 180 of each of the plurality of ropes 170 may pass through the core 140 and be wound around it to securely connect the central portion 180 at a corresponding connector 141. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of ropes 170 may pass through one or more feature point loops on the outer surface 142 of the core 140. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of ropes 170 may pass through one or more feature points on the inner surface 143 of the core 140.

[0099] In some embodiments, one or more feature points on the outer surface 142 may include grooves 146. For example... Figure 3As shown, in some embodiments, the core 140 may include a plurality of grooves 146. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of grooves 146 may include one or more bends. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of grooves 147 may include a series of bends through which the rope 170 is wound. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of grooves 147 may include at least one of a first bend 148, a socket 150, and a second bend 152. In some embodiments, the groove 146 may extend partially from the outer surface 142 to the interior 144 of the core 140. In some embodiments, the groove 146 may extend completely from the outer surface 142 to the interior 144 of the core 140. The interior 144 may be a hollow portion or void in the core 140.

[0100] In some embodiments, the groove 146 may extend at least partially from the inner surface 143 of the core 140 toward the outside of the core 140. In such embodiments, at least one of the plurality of cords 170 may pass through one or more feature points on the inner surface 143 of the core 140. Furthermore, in such embodiments, the cords 170 may pass through openings in the core 140 to pass through one or more feature points on the inner surface 143 of the core 140.

[0101] In some embodiments, the groove 146 may include a socket 150 on the outer surface 142. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of grooves 146 may include a first bend 148, a second bend 152, and a socket 150 connecting the first bend 148 and the second bend 152. In some embodiments, the first bend 148 and the second bend 152 may be openings extending from the outer surface 142 to the interior 144. In some embodiments, the first bend 148, the socket 150, and the second bend 152 may form an S-shaped groove 146. In some embodiments, the first bend 148, the socket 150, and the second bend 152 may form a hook-shaped groove 146. In some embodiments, the core 140 may include one or more S-shaped grooves 146. In some embodiments, the core 140 may include one or more hook-shaped grooves 146. In some embodiments, the core 140 may include one or more S-shaped grooves 146 and one or more hook-shaped grooves 146.

[0102] In some embodiments, a socket 150 disposed between the first bend 148 and the second bend 152 may receive the central portion 180 of the rope 170. In some embodiments, the socket 150 may be a recess on the outer surface 142. In some embodiments, the socket 150 may be a channel connecting the first bend 148 and the second bend 152. In some embodiments, the socket 150 may be a closed channel. For example, the socket 150 may be a closed channel formed by covering the central portion 180 of the rope 170 with a shaped core 140. In some embodiments, a recess 146 may include a socket 150 located on the inner surface 143 of the core 140. In such embodiments, the socket 150 may be a recess on the inner surface 143 of the core 140. Furthermore, in such embodiments, the rope 170 may pass through an opening in the core 140 to surround the socket 150 passing through the inner surface 143 of the core 140.

[0103] In some embodiments, the socket 150 may include a recessed portion 153 and one or more walls 151. In some embodiments, the walls 151 may form sidewalls of the recessed portion 153. In some embodiments, the recessed portion 153 may be surrounded by the walls 151. In some embodiments, the walls 151 may retain the central portion 180 to limit or prevent movement of the central portion 180 of the rope 170 relative to the core 140. In some embodiments, the central portion 180 of each of the plurality of ropes 170 may be secured in the recessed portion 153 of the socket 150. In some embodiments, the central portion 180 of each of the plurality of ropes 170 may include a widened mass block 181 such that the central portion 180 is secured in the socket 150 by an interference fit or friction fit between the mass block 181 and the socket 150.

[0104] In some embodiments, the widened mass block 181 of the central portion 180 of each of the plurality of ropes 170 may include a knot 182. In such embodiments, the knot 182 may be arranged in one of a plurality of recesses 146. In some embodiments, the knot 182 may be arranged in one of a plurality of insertions 150 of one of a plurality of recesses 146 located on the outer surface 142 of the core 140.

[0105] In some embodiments, the widened mass block 181 of the central portion 180 of each of the plurality of ropes 170 may include a separate piece of material attached to the central portion 180. For example, the mass block 181 may be a piece of plastic or metal molded onto the central portion 180 of the rope 170. In such embodiments, the separate piece may be arranged in one of a plurality of recesses 146. In some embodiments, the separate piece may be arranged in one of a plurality of insertion slots 150 of a plurality of recesses 146 located on the outer surface 142 of the core 140.

[0106] In some embodiments, the groove 146 may include one or more feature points to facilitate securing the central portion 180 of the rope 170. For example, in some embodiments, the groove 146 may include barbs. In some embodiments, the first bend 148 and the second bend 152 may include barbs for anchoring the rope 170 in the groove 146. As another example, in some embodiments, the groove 146 may include one or more hooks. In some embodiments, the central portion 180 may be wrapped around a hook in the groove 146 to interlock the central portion 180 to the core 140. As another example, in some embodiments, the groove 146 may include a plurality of bends through which the central portion 180 may be wound to securely connect the central portion 180 to the core 140.

[0107] In some embodiments, the central portion 180 of each of the plurality of ropes 170 may pass through one of a plurality of grooves 146 located on the outer surface 142 of the core 140. In such an embodiment, the ropes 170 may extend from the insertion port 150 into the core 140 and exit the core 140 at a first bend 148 and a second bend 152 of the groove 146, respectively. The opposing portions of the ropes 170 may then extend into the hollow shell 130 (e.g., along...). Figure 1 The axes 178 and 190 shown reach the first position 106 and the second position 108, respectively. In this way, the continuous rope 170 can pass through the hollow shell 130, through the ball 100, to the core 140, and back to the hollow shell 130.

[0108] In some embodiments, multiple continuous ropes 170 may pass from the hollow shell 130 through the sphere 100, reach one of a plurality of grooves 146 on the core 140, and return to the hollow shell 130. In such an embodiment, each of the multiple ropes 170 may extend from a first bend 148 in one of the plurality of grooves 146 to a corresponding first position 106 on the hollow shell 130. A mass block (e.g., rope 182) of the central portion 180 of each of the multiple ropes 170 may be arranged in one of a plurality of inserts 150 in one of the plurality of grooves 146. Finally, each of the multiple ropes 170 may extend from a second bend 152 in one of the plurality of grooves 146 to a corresponding second position 108 on the hollow shell 130.

[0109] In some embodiments, core 140 may provide a central mass block for sphere 100. In some embodiments, core 140 may include a mass block of 50 grams or less. In some embodiments, core 140 may include a mass block of 30 grams or less. In some embodiments, core 140 may include a mass block between 22 grams and 26 grams, such as 24 grams. In some embodiments, sphere 100 may include a mass block between 410 grams and 450 grams.

[0110] In some embodiments, core 140 is merely a central mass block without any other function. In other embodiments, core 140 may include one or more functional components. For example, Figure 4 As shown, core 140 may include one or more electronic devices 154. In some embodiments, electronic device 154 may include a battery 156 and a wireless transmitter 158. In some embodiments, electronic device 154 may include one or more sensors 160. Sensor 160 may be powered by battery 156. Sensor 160 may collect information about various parameters of a sporting activity. In some embodiments, the information may include the position of ball 100 at any time during the sporting activity, parameters of ball 100 such as the speed and position of ball 100, and / or the performance of individual athletes. In some embodiments, sensor 160 may be a pressure sensor, a GPS sensor, an accelerometer, a magnetometer, a gyroscope, a Hall sensor, a temperature sensor, a cellular phone module, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, wireless transmitter 158 may transmit the information collected by sensor 160 to one or more external devices (e.g., a smartphone or computer).

[0111] In some embodiments, the core 140 can protect the electronic device 154 from damage. For example, the core 140 may include a rigid material, such as a lightweight but rigid plastic material, to provide protection for sensitive components of the electronic device 154. Suitable plastic materials include, for example, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS). In some embodiments, including a bladder may additionally or alternatively enhance the protection of the electronic device 154. For example, the bladder may reinforce the bladder of the hollow housing 130, which may increase the stability of the electronic device 154 suspended in the interior 134 of the hollow housing 130. In some embodiments, the interior 134 may be filled with a gas at a particularly high pressure to limit deformation of the sphere 100, thereby increasing the stability of the electronic device 154 suspended in the interior 134. The stability of the electronic device 154 can be achieved by minimizing or preventing movement of the electronic device 154 in the interior 134. In some embodiments, the stability of the electronic device 154 can be achieved by holding the core 140 at the intersection of the central longitudinal axis 101 and the central transverse axis 103 of the hollow housing 130.

[0112] In some embodiments, the core 140 may be sealed around the electronic device 154. In this way, the core 140 may house the electronic device 154. In some embodiments, the core 140 and the electronic device 154 may be assembled together and separate from the hollow housing 130 and the rope 170. In some embodiments, the core 140 and the electronic device 154 may be assembled together with the rope 170.

[0113] refer to Figure 5 and 6 In some embodiments, in order to assemble the core 140 with the hollow shell 130, the hollow shell 130 may include one or more first openings 136. The one or more first openings 136 may be holes cut out in the hollow shell 130 to allow the core 140 to be disposed in the interior 134 of the hollow shell 130.

[0114] As used herein, the term "effective diameter" is a non-limiting term describing the size of a component, but it should not be construed as requiring the component to have a circular diameter or shape. Instead, the component may have a non-circular shape, and in such embodiments, the term "effective diameter" is intended to refer to the maximum cross-sectional dimension of the shape. For example, the "effective diameter" of a component with an elliptical cross-sectional shape would be the length of the major axis of the ellipse. "Effective radius" is defined as half the effective diameter.

[0115] In some embodiments, the hollow housing 130 may include one or more second openings 138. The one or more second openings 138 may be holes cut into the hollow housing 130 to allow a rope 170 to extend from the interior 134 of the hollow housing 130 through the outer surface 132. In some embodiments, the second opening 138 may include an effective diameter 139. In some embodiments, the effective diameter of the one or more second openings 138 may be smaller than the effective diameter of the one or more first openings 136. In some embodiments, the effective diameter of the one or more second openings 138 may be the same as the effective diameter of the rope 170.

[0116] In some embodiments, the two second openings 138 may respectively receive a first end 172 and a second end 184 of a rope 170. In this way, the two second openings 138 may coincide with a first position 106 and a second position 108, where the first and second free ends of each of the plurality of ropes 170 are connected to the hollow shell 130. In such an embodiment, the two second openings 138 may coincide with an anchor point, where the first end 172 is connected to the hollow shell 130 and the second end 184 is connected to the hollow shell 130.

[0117] In some embodiments, the second openings 138 may be equidistantly spaced radially apart by a distance 192 on the hollow housing 130. In such embodiments, the radial distance 192 between specific second openings 138 may be the same radial distance 192 spaced apart from their nearest radially adjacent second opening 138. In this way, each second opening 138 may be equidistantly spaced on the sphere 100. In some embodiments, depending on the diameter of the sphere 100, the distance 192 may be greater than five centimeters or greater than 30 centimeters. In some embodiments, the distance 192 may be equal to the distance 109.

[0118] By connecting the first end 172 of the corresponding rope 170 at the first position 106 and the second end 184 of the corresponding rope 170 at the second position 108, the rope 170 can be connected to the hollow shell 130 at the first position 106 and the second position 108. The first end and the second end 172 / 184 of the rope 170 can be connected to the first position 106 and the second position 108, such that the first end and the second end are respectively fixed at the first position 106 and the second position 108. In other words, the first position 106 and the second position 108 can be anchor points for suspending the core 140.

[0119] The ends 172 and 184 of the rope 170 can be connected to the hollow housing 130 using one or more of the following mechanisms, which secure the first end 172 / 184 to a first position and a second position 106 / 108 on the hollow housing 130, respectively. In some embodiments, the ends 172 and 184 of the rope 170 can be bonded to the hollow housing 130 using an adhesive. In some embodiments, the ends 172 and 184 of the rope 170 can be bonded to the hollow housing 130 by directly attaching the ends 172 / 184 to the hollow housing 130, for example by thermally bonding the ends 172 / 184 to the hollow housing 130. In some embodiments, the ends 172 / 184 of the rope 170 can be bonded to the hollow housing 130 by adhesively bonding (gluing) the first end 172 and the second end 184 to one or more layers of one or more pads 200. In some embodiments, the ends 172 / 184 of the rope 170 can be connected to the hollow shell 130 by sewing the ends 172 / 184 to the hollow shell 130. In some embodiments, the ends 172 / 184 of the rope 170 can be connected to the hollow shell 130 by clamping the ends 172 / 184 to the hollow shell 130. In some embodiments, the first end 172 and the second end 184 can be connected to the hollow shell 130 in the same manner. For example, both the first end 172 and the second end 184 can be adhesively bonded to the hollow shell 130. In other embodiments, the first end 172 and the second end 184 can be connected to the hollow shell 130 in different manner. For example, the first end 172 can be sewn to the hollow shell 130, while the second end 184 is adhesively bonded to the hollow shell 130.

[0120] In some embodiments, the first end and the second end 172 / 184 of the rope 170 may be connected to the inner surface of the hollow shell 130 at a first position and a second position 106 and 108, respectively. In some embodiments, the rope 170 may extend to the outer surface 132 of the hollow shell 130. In such an embodiment, the first end 172 of the rope 170 may be connected to the outer surface 132 of the hollow shell 130 at a first position 106, and the second end 184 of the rope 170 may be connected to the outer surface 132 of the hollow shell 130 at a second position 108.

[0121] In some embodiments, the first end and the second end 172 / 184 of the rope 170 may be connected to a first position 106 and a second position 108, respectively, wherein a separate pad 200 is coupled to the hollow shell at the first position 106 and the second position 108. In such an embodiment, the first position 106 may include the first pad 200, and the second position 108 may include the second pad 200.

[0122] In some embodiments, the liner 200 may be adhesively bonded to the hollow housing 130. In some embodiments, the liner 200 may be directly bonded to the hollow housing 130, for example, by thermal bonding the liner 200 to the hollow housing 130. In some embodiments, the liner 200 may be bonded to the inner surface of the hollow housing 130. In some embodiments, the liner 200 may be bonded to the outer surface 132 of the hollow housing 130. In such an embodiment, the two second openings 138 may respectively receive a first end 172 and a second end 184 of the rope 170. In this way, the two second openings 138 may coincide with a first position 106 and a second position 108, at which each of the plurality of ropes 170 extends into the hollow housing 130.

[0123] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, the first end 172 and the second end 184 may extend through the second opening 138 to engage with the gasket 200. In some embodiments, the gasket 200 may cover and seal the second opening 138 in the hollow housing 130. In such embodiments, the seal may be an airtight seal.

[0124] Reference Figure 6 and 7A In some embodiments, the pad 200 may have an effective diameter 210. In some embodiments, the effective diameter 210 may be between five millimeters and 40 millimeters, between 10 millimeters and 40 millimeters, or between 20 millimeters and 40 millimeters. In some embodiments, the effective diameter 210 may be larger than the effective diameter 139 of the second opening 138.

[0125] In some embodiments, the first end 172 and the second end 184 may extend through the second opening 138 and between two padding layers defining the padding 200. In such an embodiment, the first end 172 and the second end 184 may be secured to the padding 200 by clamping the first end 172 and the second end 184 between the first padding layer and the second padding layer of the padding 200.

[0126] For example, in some embodiments, the pad 200 may include a first pad layer 202 and a second pad layer 208, such as Figure 7A As shown. In some embodiments, the first padding layer 202 and the second padding layer 208 are combined to form the padding 200. In some embodiments, the padding 200 includes only the first padding layer 202. In some embodiments, the padding includes only the second padding layer 208.

[0127] In some embodiments, the first padding layer 202 may include one or more openings 206 to allow a first end 172 or a second end 184 to extend through the first padding layer 202. In other words, the first padding layer 202 may include an opening 206 through which a first end 172 or a second end 184 of a rope 170 can be received.

[0128] In some embodiments, the first padding layer 202 may have an effective diameter 204 between 10 mm and 50 mm, between 15 mm and 35 mm, or between 15 mm and 25 mm. In some embodiments, the effective diameter 204 may be smaller than the effective diameter 210 of the padding layer 200. In some embodiments, the effective diameter 204 may be the same as the effective diameter 210.

[0129] In embodiments including a first padding layer 202 and a second padding layer 208, the effective diameter 210 of the padding layer 200 may be the effective diameter of the second padding layer 208. In some embodiments, the second padding layer 208 may include an effective diameter 210 that is larger than the effective diameter 204 of the first padding layer 202.

[0130] Reference Figure 6 and 7A In some embodiments, the effective diameter 210 of the second liner layer 208 may be larger than the effective diameter 204 of the first liner layer 202 to facilitate the connection between the liner 200 and the hollow shell 130. For example, because the effective diameter 210 is larger than the effective diameter 139 of the second opening 138, the liner 200 may be attached to the hollow shell 130 over the second opening 138. In such embodiments, the second liner layer 208 may be a patch that covers and seals the second opening 138. In some embodiments, the effective diameter 210 may be at least two millimeters larger than the effective diameter 204.

[0131] In some embodiments, the second padding layer 208 and the hollow shell 130 may comprise the same material. In some embodiments, the second padding layer 208 and the hollow shell 130 comprise different materials. In some embodiments, the second padding layer 208 comprises a material that is harder than the hollow shell 130. In some embodiments, the second padding layer 208 comprises the same but thicker material as the hollow shell 130, making it harder than the hollow shell 130. In some embodiments, the first padding layer 202, the second padding layer 208, and the hollow shell 130 may comprise the same material. In some embodiments, the first padding layer 202 and the second padding layer 208 may comprise a material that is different from and / or harder than the hollow shell 130. In some embodiments, the first padding layer 202, the second padding layer 208, and the hollow shell 130 may comprise materials of the same material class (e.g., rubber materials).

[0132] In some embodiments, the padding 200 may receive a rope 170. In some embodiments, the ends 172 and 184 of the rope 170 may be sized to fit through the opening 206. In some embodiments, the ends 172 and 184 of the rope 170 may be attached to the first padding layer 202. In some embodiments, the ends 172 and 184 of the rope 170 may be bent outward and joined to the first padding layer 202 after passing through the opening 206. In some embodiments, the ends 172 and 184 of the rope 170 may lie flat on the first padding layer 202. In such embodiments, the flat ends 172 and 184 may be adhesively or directly joined to the first padding layer 202. In some embodiments, the flat ends 172 and 184 of the rope 170 may be portions of the rope 170 molded into a flat shape.

[0133] In some embodiments, the flat ends 172 and 184 of the rope 170 may be loose portions of the rope 170 lying flat on the first padding 202. In some embodiments, the rope 170 may be a fiber rope, and the flat ends 172 and 184 of the rope 170 may be loose fibrous portions of the rope 170 lying flat on the first padding 202. In some embodiments, to attach the fiber rope 170 to the first padding layer 202, the fiber rope 170 may be twisted outward at the first end 172 and the second end 184. Therefore, the first end 172 may include a first loose end 174. Similarly, the second end 184 may include a second loose end 186 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 8 (As shown). In some embodiments, the first breakage end 174 may be bonded to the first padding layer 202, the second breakage end 186 may be bonded to the first padding layer 202, or both may be bonded together.

[0134] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of ropes 170 includes one or more loose ends. A first end 172 of rope 170 may include a first loose end 174, a second end 184 of rope 170 may include a second loose end 186, or both. The loose end of each rope 170 may be secured to the hollow housing 130 at one of a plurality of spaced-apart locations. For example, the first loose end 174 may be secured to a first location 106. Similarly, the second loose end 186 may be secured to a second location 108. In some embodiments, each spaced-apart location includes a pad 200 coupled to the hollow housing, for example, coupled to the outer surface 132 of the hollow housing 130. In some embodiments, the loose end of each rope 170 may be coupled to the pad 200 at each respective spaced-apart location.

[0135] In some embodiments, at least a first breakage end 174 of the first end 172 may be connected to the first padding layer 202. Similarly, in some embodiments, at least a second breakage end 186 of the second end 184 may be attached to the first padding layer 202.

[0136] In some embodiments, the first breakage end 174 and the second breakage end 186 may be coupled to the first padding layer 202 and the second padding layer 208. In some embodiments, the first breakage end 174 may be sandwiched between the first padding layer 202 and the second padding layer 208. Similarly, the second breakage end 186 may be sandwiched between the first padding layer 202 and the second padding layer 208.

[0137] Reference Figure 7A and 7B In some embodiments, the loose fibers of the first loose end 174 may extend radially on the first padding layer 202. In some embodiments, the loose fibers of the first loose end 174 may extend radially from the opening 206 of the first padding layer 202. In some embodiments, the loose fibers of the second loose end 186 may extend radially on the first padding layer 202. In some embodiments, the loose fibers of the second loose end 186 may extend radially from the opening 206 of the first padding layer 202. In some embodiments, the loose fibers of the first loose end 174 may have a length greater than or equal to 10 mm, greater than or equal to 8 mm, or greater than or equal to 5 mm. In some embodiments, the loose fibers of the second loose end 186 may have a length greater than or equal to 10 mm, greater than or equal to 8 mm, or greater than or equal to 5 mm.

[0138] In some embodiments, the suspension system 110 for the core 140 can be manufactured without flipping the hollow shell 130 from the inside out. In some embodiments, the core 140 and the rope 170 can be assembled together before being arranged inside the hollow shell 130. In some embodiments, the core 140 and the rope 170 can be inserted into the hollow shell 130 via a first opening 136.

[0139] For example, Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, once the core 140 and the rope 170 are inserted into the hollow shell 130, the rope 170 can be cut to a certain length. In some embodiments, each of the first end 172 and the second end 184 can be cut to the same length. Therefore, the first end 172 and the second end 184 can extend the same distance from the core 140.

[0140] In some embodiments, the securing device may be used to define the cut length of the first end 172 and the second end 184. In such embodiments, the rope 170 may be secured to the securing device, for example, by a clamp. In some embodiments, a second securing device 300 may be used to attach the rope 170 to a first padding layer 202. The second securing device 300 may be used to attach the first rope end 172 and the second rope end 184 to the padding 200. In some embodiments, the first padding layer 202 may be disposed at an end of the second securing device 300.

[0141] In some embodiments, the first padding layer 202 may be a plate supporting the first rope end 172 or the second rope end 184. In such embodiments, the support from the first padding layer 202 can facilitate attachment to the second padding layer 208. Thus, the rope 170 can be secured in place by extending onto the first padding layer 202. For example, the rope 170 may be frayed, folded, or a combination thereof at the first rope end 172 and the second rope end 184 on the first padding layer 202, as described herein. In some embodiments, the first rope end 172 and the second rope end 184 may extend through the opening 206 of the first padding layer 202 and onto the first padding layer 202. The first padding layer 202, as a plate, may extend partially or completely around the opening 206, and thus around the first rope end 172 or the second rope end 184. The first padding layer 202 may be incorporated into the second padding layer 208 to form a padding 200. In some embodiments, the first rope end 172 and the second rope end 184 may extend from the opening 206 in the first padding layer 202 to the first padding layer 202, such that the lengths of the first rope end 172 and the second rope end 184 are fixed. In this way, the final length of the rope extending from the core can be fixed, that is, the final extension of the first rope line 176 and the second rope line 188 from the core 140 to the hollow shell 130 can be fixed.

[0142] Figure 9 An exemplary method 900 for manufacturing a ball 100 according to an embodiment is shown. In some embodiments, method 900 may include step 902, during which one or more ropes 170 are connected to a core 140. In some embodiments, multiple ropes 170 may be connected to the core 140. In step 902, each rope 170 may be connected to the core 140 using one or more fastening mechanisms described herein.

[0143] In some embodiments, method 900 may include step 904, during which core 140 is disposed within hollow shell 130 through first opening 136. In some embodiments, hollow shell 130 may include first opening 136 and a plurality of second openings 138 through which first end 172 and second end 184 of rope 170 passes in step 906.

[0144] In some embodiments, method 900 may include step 908, during which a first end 172 and a second end 184 of rope 170 are attached to pad 200. In such an embodiment, in step 910, pad 200 attached to the first end 172 may be attached to hollow housing 130 at the second opening 138. Similarly, in step 910, pad 200 attached to the second end 184 may be attached to hollow housing 130 at the second opening 138. In some embodiments, in step 910, pad 200 may be bonded to hollow housing 130 at the second opening 138. In some embodiments, pad 200 may be bonded to hollow housing 130 such that the second opening 138 is sealed in step 910.

[0145] Figure 10 An exemplary method 1000 is shown, according to some embodiments, of attaching the ends 172 and 184 of ropes to a hollow shell 130 to manufacture a ball 100. First, in step 1002, first ends 172 and second ends 184 of a plurality of ropes 170 may pass through a second opening 138 in the hollow shell 130. In some embodiments, the first ends 172 and second ends 184 may pass through corresponding second openings 138, such that each rope 170 includes a first rope line 176 extending from the outer surface 142 of the core 140 and a second rope line 188 extending from the outer surface 142 of the core 140.

[0146] Next, in step 1004, the first rope 176 is cut to a certain length, and the second rope 188 is cut to a certain length. In some embodiments, the lengths of the first rope 176 and the second rope 188 are the same. In some embodiments, step 1004 may be performed before step 1002.

[0147] Next, in step 1006, the first end 172 of the rope 170 is abraded to form a first abraded end 174, and the second end 184 of the rope 170 is abraded to form a second abraded end 186. In some embodiments, abrading the first end 172 and the second end 184 may include unscrewing the rope 170 at the first end 172 and the second end 184.

[0148] Next, in step 1008, the first end 172 and the second end 184 may be attached to the gasket 200. In some embodiments, attaching the first end 172 and the second end 184 may include using an adhesive to bond the first end 174 and the second end 186 to the gasket 200. In some embodiments, the adhesive may be a rubber adhesive. In some embodiments, step 1008 may include attaching the first end 174 and the second end 186 to the first gasket layer 202. In some embodiments, attaching the first end 174 and the second end 186 to the first gasket layer 202 may include using an adhesive to bond the first end 174 and the second end 186 to the first gasket layer 202. In some embodiments, the adhesive may be a rubber adhesive.

[0149] Next, in step 1010, the first padding layer 202 may be attached to the second padding layer 208 to form a pad 200. In some embodiments, the first padding layer 202 and the second padding layer 208 may be attached with an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive may be a rubber adhesive. In some embodiments, connecting the first padding layer 202 and the second padding layer 208 clamps the break ends 174 and 186 between the respective first padding layer 202 and the second padding layer 208 of each pad 200.

[0150] Next, in step 1012, the gasket 200 is attached to the hollow shell 130. In some embodiments, attaching the gasket 200 to the hollow shell 130 may include bonding the gasket 200 to the hollow shell 130 with an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive may be a rubber adhesive. In some embodiments, attaching the gasket 200 to the hollow shell 130 may include applying heat and pressure to cure the adhesive used in method 1000. In embodiments containing a rubber adhesive, applying heat and pressure may vulcanize the rubber adhesive. In some embodiments, heat and pressure may be applied while the ball 100 is in a mold. In some embodiments, step 1012 may include applying a temperature of about 160 degrees Celsius for about three minutes and a pressure of about six kilograms.

[0151] The breadth and scope of this disclosure should not be limited by any of the exemplary embodiments described above, but should be defined solely by the appended claims and their equivalents. It should be understood that the wording or terminology used herein is for descriptive rather than limiting purposes, and therefore the terminology or terminology in this specification should be interpreted by those skilled in the art based on the teachings and guidance.

Claims

1. A sports ball, comprising: Hollow shell; and The core, which is suspended inside the hollow shell by multiple ropes, Each of the plurality of ropes includes: A first cord extends from the outer surface of the core along a first axis to a first end, the first end being connected to the hollow shell at a first location. A second rope extends from the outer surface of the core along a second axis to a second end, the second end being connected to the hollow shell at a second location. The central portion, which is connected to the core, The angle between the first axis and the second axis is between 5 degrees and 90 degrees.

2. The ball of claim 1, wherein the first position includes a first pad bonded to the outer surface of the hollow shell, and wherein the second position includes a second pad bonded to the outer surface of the hollow shell.

3. The sports ball of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of ropes is a fiber rope, wherein the first end comprises loose fibers of the rope, and wherein the loose fibers are incorporated into the first pad.

4. The ball of claim 3, wherein the first pad comprises a first pad layer and a second pad layer, and wherein the loose fibers are sandwiched between the first pad layer and the second pad layer.

5. The ball of claim 4, wherein the first padding layer includes an opening through which the first end of the rope is received.

6. The ball of claim 4, wherein the first padding layer comprises a first effective diameter, and wherein the second padding layer comprises a second effective diameter greater than the first effective diameter.

7. The sports ball of claim 1, wherein the central portion of each of the plurality of ropes passes through and surrounds the core.

8. The ball of claim 1, wherein the central portion of each of the plurality of cords passes through one of the plurality of grooves located on the outer surface of the core.

9. The ball of claim 8, wherein each of the plurality of grooves comprises a first curved portion, a second curved portion, and a socket connecting the first curved portion and the second curved portion.

10. The ball of claim 9, wherein each of the plurality of cords extends from the first bend of one of the plurality of grooves to a corresponding position in the first position, and wherein each of the plurality of cords extends from the second bend of one of the plurality of grooves to a corresponding position in the second position.

11. The ball of claim 1, wherein the core comprises a plurality of inlets, each of the inlets comprising a recessed portion surrounded by a wall, and wherein the central portion of each of the plurality of cords is fixed in the recessed portion of one of the inlets.

12. The ball of claim 1, wherein the first position and the second position are equidistant from each other around the surface region of the hollow shell.

13. The ball of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of ropes is a continuous rope extending from the first end to the second end.

14. The ball of claim 1, wherein the core comprises an electronic device.

15. The sports ball of claim 14, wherein the electronic device comprises a battery and a wireless transmitter.

16. The ball of claim 14, wherein the electronic device comprises a sensor selected from the group consisting of: pressure sensors, GPS sensors, accelerometers, magnetometers, gyroscopes, Hall effect sensors, temperature sensors, cellular phone modules, and combinations thereof.

17. The ball of claim 1, wherein the core comprises a mass of less than or equal to 50 grams.

18. A method for manufacturing a sports ball, the method comprising: Multiple ropes are connected to the core, such that each rope includes a first end, a second end, and a central portion connected to the core; The core is disposed within a hollow shell, the hollow shell comprising a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings; Pull the first end of each rope through the corresponding one of the plurality of first openings; Pull the second end of each rope through the corresponding one of the plurality of second openings; Multiple first pads are attached to the first end of each rope that is pulled through one of the multiple first openings, with each first pad attached to a corresponding one of the first ends; Multiple second pads are attached to the second end of each rope that is pulled through one of the multiple second openings, with each second pad attached to a corresponding one of the second ends; Each of the first gaskets is engaged to the hollow housing at a corresponding location in the first opening; as well as Each of the second gaskets is engaged to the hollow housing at a corresponding location in the second opening.

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