Clamshell basketball system

Abstract

The invention relates to a clamshell basketball system. An example of a basketball system includes: a basket; a backboard to which the basket can be attached; the supporting structure can be connected to the backboard; a leg, the leg being attachable to the support structure; and a base to which the legs are attachable, and which is dimensioned and configured to fully receive the basket, the backboard, the support structure, and the legs. The backboard is configured to be folded when not in use.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One or more example embodiments relate to sporting equipment. One particular example embodiment includes a portable basketball system configured to be disassembled and placed in a container, such as a shipping container, that can be easily and efficiently transported by a delivery driver and user. Background Art

[0002] A typical portable basketball system consists of numerous components, such as a base, one or more wheels, a backboard, a basket, support posts, and various supporting elements. While portable basketball systems are designed to be portable, their inherent bulkiness makes them difficult to transport once assembled. This problem also extends to unassembled portable basketball systems, which often include various oddly shaped, long, or bulky components. Furthermore, with increasing shipping costs, there is economic pressure to reduce packaging size and improve packaging efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates generally to sporting equipment. One example embodiment includes a portable basketball system configured to be disassembled and placed in a container, such as a shipping container, that can be easily and efficiently transported by a delivery driver and user.

[0004] In one embodiment, a portable basketball system includes a base that may have a clamshell configuration including a removable cover. The base may be sized and configured to accommodate all of the components of the portable basketball system, such as, but not limited to, a backboard, a basket, stanchions, brackets and other support structures, wheels, and axles. The base may include various locating features, which may be integral to the base, to help hold the various components in place during transport after they have been placed in the base. Likewise, the base and / or cover may include handles to enable a user to transport the base. In another embodiment, most of the components remain within the base, with a few components being located outside the base, such as in embodiments where the backboard is the same size as or larger than the base, where the backboard may be located above or below the base.

[0005] In one embodiment, a backboard for a basketball system may include a blow-molded plastic structure including a living hinge that allows the backboard to fold, thereby reducing its size in at least one dimension. In one embodiment, the foldable backboard may be assembled into a base having a clamshell configuration. Support elements may be included that are removably attached to the backboard to increase the rigidity of the backboard and ensure that the backboard does not fold around the living hinge during use. In another embodiment, the backboard may fold and be positioned above or below the base. In another embodiment, the backboard may wrap around multiple sides of the base, such that a portion of the backboard is positioned above or below the base, with the folding portion located on the side of the base, or it may be positioned at the top or bottom of the base, with the folding portion on both sides of the base, or completely around all four sides of the base. In another embodiment, the backboard may include two or more backboards that may be rigidly connected together during assembly.

[0006] Embodiments, such as the examples disclosed herein, can be beneficial in many ways. For example, it will be apparent from the present invention that one or more embodiments can produce one or more advantageous and unexpected effects in any combination, some examples of which are listed below. It should be noted that these effects are neither intended nor should be interpreted as limiting the scope of the claims or the present invention in any way. It should also be noted that nothing herein should be interpreted as constituting a necessary or indispensable element of any embodiment. On the contrary, the various aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined in various ways to define further embodiments. For example, any (one or more) elements of any embodiment can be combined with any (one or more) elements of any other embodiment to define further embodiments. Such further embodiments are considered to be within the scope of the present invention. Similarly, any embodiment included within the scope of the present invention should not be interpreted as solving or being limited to solving any (one or more) specific problems. Any such embodiment should also not be interpreted as achieving or being limited to achieving any (one or more) specific technical effects or solutions. Finally, it is not required that any embodiment achieve any advantageous and unexpected effects disclosed herein.

[0007] In particular, one advantageous aspect of one embodiment is that most or all of the components of the portable basketball system can be stored in a container that is easily transportable by the user. The size and shape of the container are economical in terms of transportation costs for transport vehicles such as railroads and ships. One embodiment can be reconfigured so that the size of the embodiment can be reduced in one configuration relative to another. One embodiment can reduce the amount of packaging required to pack and transport the portable basketball system. Various other advantages of one or more embodiments will be apparent from this disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The accompanying drawings include diagrams of example embodiments to further illustrate and clarify various aspects of one or more example embodiments. It should be understood that these drawings depict only example embodiments and are not intended to limit their scope. Aspects of the various embodiments will be described and explained in greater detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0009] Figure 1 is an overall view of a portable basketball system having a clamshell configuration according to one embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 is a front view of a backboard according to one embodiment.

[0011] Figure 3 is a rear view of a backboard according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4 is a detailed view of a backboard including a living hinge, according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 5 is a view of a backboard in a folded position according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 6 is an illustration of a backboard folded along a living hinge, according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 7 is a rear view of a backboard and a pair of attachment brackets indirectly attached to a support structure according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 8 is a side cross-sectional view of a backboard according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 9 is a top perspective view of a base according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 10 is a partially exploded view of a base with a backboard positioned within the base according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 11 is an exploded view of a base according to one embodiment, illustrating an example arrangement of some basketball system components within the base.

[0020] Figure 12 An example arrangement of basketball system components within a chassis is shown according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 12a is a front perspective view of a base according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 13is a top perspective view of the interior of a base, according to one embodiment, disclosing various features configured to couple with basketball system components.

[0023] Figure 14 is a bottom view of a base according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 15 is a bottom view of a portion of a basketball system according to one embodiment, indicating how various components of the basketball system couple to the base.

[0025] Figure 16 is a top view of a portion of a basketball system according to one embodiment, indicating how various components of the basketball system may be coupled to a base.

[0026] Figure 17 is a rear view of a portion of a basketball system according to one embodiment, indicating how various components of the basketball system may be coupled to the base

[0027] Figure 18 is a partial perspective view of a backboard comprising two parts, according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 19 is a perspective view of a backboard with two sections of the backboard connected together, according to one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 20 is a side view of a backboard indicating how the two parts of the backboard are connected together, according to one embodiment.

[0030] Figure 21 is a detailed view showing the connection of two parts of a backboard, according to one embodiment.

[0031] Figure 22 is a top perspective view of a backboard according to one embodiment.

[0032] Figure 23 is a side perspective view showing the connection of two parts of a backboard, according to one embodiment.

[0033] Figure 24 is a detailed side perspective view showing the connection of two parts of a backboard, according to one embodiment.

[0034] Figure 25 is a perspective view of a base and backboard together defining a storage area for basketball system components according to one embodiment.

[0035] Figure 26 is a side perspective view of a base and backboard together defining a storage area for basketball system components according to one embodiment.

[0036] Figure 27 is a top perspective view of a base and backboard together defining a storage area for basketball system components according to one embodiment.

[0037] Figure 28 is a rear perspective view of a backboard and reinforcement members according to one embodiment.

[0038] Figure 29 yes Figure 28 A partial side sectional view of a backboard.

[0039] Figure 30 is a detailed view of the channel and living hinges of a backboard, according to one embodiment.

[0040] Figure 31 is a detailed view of the channels and living hinges of a backboard, indicating the movement of the various parts of the backboard, according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] One or more example embodiments relate to sports equipment. One particular example embodiment includes a portable basketball system that is configured to be disassembled and placed in a container, such as a shipping container, that can be easily and efficiently transported by a delivery driver and user. One embodiment may include a foldable backboard.

[0042] A. General Aspects of Some Example Implementations

[0043] In general, the basketball systems and related components disclosed herein, including support structures, bases, wheels, axles, support structures, connecting structures, baskets, backboards, height adjustment mechanisms, and other components, can be constructed using a variety of components and materials, including but not limited to plastics including polycarbonate (including injection molded, blow molded, rotationally molded, and two-piece plastic structures and components), plastics such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), composite materials, fiberglass, wood, rubber, metal, and combinations of any of the foregoing. One or more components of a basketball system (e.g., a portable basketball system) can be formed using a blow molding process or other molding process. Such components can include, but are not limited to, a backboard and a clamshell container.

[0044] However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to blow molding processes or blow molded components. Thus, other example processes that can be used to manufacture part or all of any of the above-described components include rotational molding, injection molding, vacuum forming, overmolding, and what is sometimes referred to as a two-piece process (including two-piece molding). Any of these processes can produce a partially or completely hollow component. Likewise, it will be understood that the components of the disclosed embodiments need not be made of plastic, but can be made using other materials having other suitable properties.

[0045] As described above, any component of an embodiment that is at least partially made of blow molded plastic can have a partially or completely hollow interior. Such an embodiment can also include one or more recesses, sometimes referred to as "recesses," disposed within the interior. In such an embodiment, these recesses can be integrally molded as part of an integral, one-piece structure during the blow molding process. The recess can extend from a first surface of the component (e.g., a first interior surface) toward a second surface of the component (e.g., a second interior surface). The ends of one or more recesses can contact or engage the second surface, or the ends of one or more recesses can be spaced a distance from the second surface. Both types of recesses can be present in a single embodiment.

[0046] In some cases, one or more recesses on the first inner surface can be substantially aligned with corresponding recesses on the second inner surface, and one or more recesses on the first inner surface can contact one or more corresponding recesses on the second inner surface, or alternatively, one or more recesses on the first inner surface can be spaced apart from corresponding recesses on the second inner surface. In other cases, both recesses that contact one another and recesses that are spaced apart can exist in the components of one or more disclosed embodiments. Recesses can be sized and configured to strengthen and / or reinforce the component(s) in which they are located.

[0047] Some, all, or none of one or more basketball systems and their components may be coated with paint or other materials. At least some of these materials may help prevent or reduce rust and corrosion. Surface treatments and textures may also be applied to various parts of the basketball system. For example, a component such as a base may include a texture or pattern, which may be formed through a blow molding process or other process.

[0048] Finally, one feature of blow molded plastic structures, such as the disclosed example backboard, is that they take the form of integral, one-piece structures formed by a single blow molding process. These structures are fully formed after the blow molding process is completed. In contrast, thermoformed and vacuum formed parts are typically constructed from multiple separate components that must be attached together in some manner to form the final structure after they are formed. Therefore, using a blow molding process to form an integral, one-piece structure can eliminate the need for post-molding assembly and attachment processes required in other processes. In at least some cases, blow molded structures, such as the disclosed example embodiments of the base and backboard, can include one or more parting lines, which are small ridges or protrusions of plastic formed where the mold halves come together. Portions of the parting lines can be trimmed off after production, but even after trimming, a visible remnant may remain in the final structure to indicate where the mold halves were joined during the molding process.

[0049] Continuing with reference to some example materials for one or more embodiments, suitable metals for support posts, support structures, and reinforcements may include steel, aluminum, and aluminum alloys, but those skilled in the art will appreciate that various other metals may be employed, and the scope of the present disclosure and claims is not limited to the aforementioned examples. Where metal is employed in the construction of a basketball system or basketball system component, the metal elements may take one or more forms, including but not limited to square tubing, rectangular tubing, oval tubing, round tubing, pipe, angle iron, flat iron, I-shaped, T-shaped, L-shaped, and combinations and portions of any of the foregoing.

[0050] Depending on the material(s) used in the construction of the basketball system, various methods and components may be used to releasably or permanently connect the various elements of the basketball system. For example, the various elements of a basketball system within the scope of the present invention may be mechanically attached to one another by any one or more processes such as welding or brazing and / or by fasteners such as bolts, screws, pins, and rivets.

[0051] B. General Aspects of the Example Basketball System

[0052] First reference Figure 1 , discloses an example basketball system 10. In one embodiment, as discussed in further detail below, the basketball system 10 can be a portable basketball system and can be configured to be disassembled and reassembled.

[0053] Basketball system 10 may include a support structure 12, such as a support pole, sized and configured to support a basketball hoop 14 above a playing surface. Support structure 12 may include one or more segments 12a, which may be hollow and interconnected / interconnectable to facilitate shipping and transport of basketball system 10. Segments 12a may be movable relative to one another, or may be immovable relative to one another. One embodiment of support structure 12 includes a pole having multiple telescoping segments 12a. Alternatively, support structure 12 may take the form of a single pole.

[0054] In addition to the basketball hoop, the basketball system 10 may also include a backboard 16 to which the hoop 14 is attached directly or indirectly via one or more fasteners and / or support elements. In one embodiment, the backboard 16 may include a blow molded structure including a living hinge.

[0055] The basketball system 10 may be a portable basketball system, such as Figure 1As shown in the example of and discussed in more detail elsewhere herein, the support structure 12 can be moved from one location to another. For example, the support structure 12 can be directly or indirectly connected to the base 18 to form part of a portable basketball system. The base 18 can include multiple sections and can be a hollow structure that can be injection molded, blow molded, or otherwise formed and can be filled with ballast, such as sand or water, to help stabilize the basketball system 10 when in use. For example, one or more sections of the base 18 can include a unitary, single-piece structure made of plastic and formed by a blow molding process or an injection molding process. The attachment of the support structure 12 to the base 18 can be achieved by one or more legs 20, which can be supported by corresponding struts 21 that connect the legs 20 to the support structure 12.

[0056] In one embodiment, legs 20 may be omitted and support structure 12 may be removably received within a recess defined in the base. In one embodiment, support structure 12 may be removably attached to the base without the use of a recess, such as by attaching support structure 12 to the base via a connecting structure. In these alternative embodiments, all components of the basketball system may fit within the base.

[0057] In one embodiment, the base of the basketball system can be formed as a single, integrated structure, rather than comprising two separate and distinct components, as in the exemplary base 18. In such an embodiment, the base portion and the cover can be connected and integrally formed with each other via a living hinge, which can extend along part or all of the length or width of the base. In such an embodiment, the structure including the living hinge can be formed by processes including, but not limited to, blow molding and injection molding. The living hinge can enable the base portion and the cover to be selectively joined together to at least partially define an enclosed space in which basketball system components can be stored. In one embodiment, the base portion and / or the cover can be configured to accommodate at least a portion of one or more basketball system components.

[0058] In one embodiment, a blow molding process can be used to construct a base having a unitary, one-piece structure. The formed hollow base can then be cut to form two sections, such as a base section and a cover. The upper and lower sections can be joined together, such as by one or more hinges or other components, to at least partially define an enclosed space within which basketball system components can be stored. In one embodiment, the base section and / or the cover can be configured to accommodate at least a portion of one or more basketball system components.

[0059] Furthermore, basketball system 10 may include one or more wheels 22 attached to the axle (see FIG. Figure 12), which extends through or is otherwise connected to support structure 12. With wheels 22 arranged in this manner, a user can tilt basketball system 10 until base 18 is off the ground and then roll basketball system 10 to a desired location. In one embodiment, any number of wheels 22 may be used, such as only a single wheel, two wheels, four wheels, six wheels, or eight wheels. No particular number of wheels is required for any embodiment.

[0060] C. Aspects of the Example Backboard

[0061] refer to Figure 2 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4 , provide additional details regarding an example backboard 16. As shown in these figures, backboard 16 can include a living hinge 16a that extends along the width of backboard 16. In the example shown in the figures, living hinge 16a is located approximately one-third of the total height of backboard 16 from the bottom of backboard 16. However, this location is presented as an example only, and living hinge 16a can be located elsewhere. In one embodiment, living hinge 16a can extend vertically from the top of backboard 16 to the bottom of backboard 16, rather than extending horizontally across the width of backboard 16. By its nature, living hinge 16a can be integral with backboard 16, such that backboard 16 comprises a single piece of material containing living hinge 16a, which can be formed during the same blow molding process or other process used to manufacture other portions of backboard 16.

[0062] In one embodiment, a backboard may include multiple living hinges, such as two or more living hinges. The living hinges may be parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to one another and may extend longitudinally or transversely along the backboard. The living hinges may or may not divide the backboard into backboard sections having equal length and width. The living hinges may be parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to one or more edges of the backboard.

[0063] Now refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , and continue to refer to Figures 2 to 4 , the example backboard 16 is shown in a folded configuration, wherein the backboard 16 is folded about a living hinge 16a such that a first portion 16b of the backboard 16 is positioned on top of a second portion 16c. In one embodiment, the living hinge 16a can be constructed and arranged to enable either portion 16b or 16c to rotate approximately or exactly 180 degrees relative to the other portion 16b or 16c such that the two portions 16a and 16b can be rotated as shown. Figure 516b and 16c can be stacked flat on top of each other. In one embodiment, the rotation range can be less than 180 degrees, such as approximately 90 degrees, or any angle or combination of angles, such as between 0 and 200 degrees or between 0 and -200 degrees. In one embodiment, portions 16b and 16c can have different dimensions, at least in terms of their respective heights, and portions 16b and 16c can have the same width. In one embodiment, portions 16b and 16c can each have the same height and width.

[0064] like Figure 5 As further shown, the backboard 16 may include one or more recessed portions 16d. The recessed portions 16d may be the product of a blow molding process. In one embodiment, the recessed portions 16d may have a circular shape, but this is not required. Furthermore, the recessed portions 16d may have a generally conical shape, or may have a cylindrical shape, or other shapes. Figure 6 Further indicated are two faces 16e that are visible when the backboard 16 is folded about the living hinge 16a. When the backboard 16 is unfolded and ready for use, the two faces 16e can be in direct contact with each other.

[0065] Now refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 , also refer to Figure 3 , backboard 16 may be constructed such that portions 16b and 16c collectively define a recess 16f that extends downwardly along both sides of backboard 16. Figure 7 As best shown, each vertical side of the backboard 16 can be provided with a reinforcement member 24. The reinforcement member 24 can be metal, can have a generally U-shaped configuration, and can be removably mounted in the recess 16f such that, when positioned in the recess 16f, the reinforcement member 24 is flush with the surface of the backboard 16. Thus, when so positioned, the reinforcement member 24 can prevent the backboard 16 from bending or folding about the living hinge 16a when the backboard 16 is in use. The reinforcement member 24 can snap fit into the recess 16f or otherwise removably engage the recess 16f so that the user can easily install and remove the reinforcement member 24 as needed. In one embodiment, the reinforcement member 24 can additionally or alternatively be connected to the backboard 16 by fasteners, such as screws or bolts.

[0066] Backboard 16 may also be supported by brackets 26 that enable backboard 16 to be attached to support structure 12. Support structure 12 may be attached to brackets 26 with bolts or other fasteners, and brackets 26 may likewise be removably attached to backboard 16 with bolts, screws, or other fasteners. Brackets 26 and the associated hardware and fasteners required to connect backboard 16 to support structure 12 may be completely assembled within base 18 along with all other basketball system components disclosed herein.

[0067] Figure 8 Disclosed is a portion of the hollow interior 28 of the example backboard 16. Due to the presence of one or more living hinges 16a, the respective hollow interiors of portions 16b and 16c can be isolated from one another, ie, the hollow interior of portion 16b does not communicate with the hollow interior of portion 16c.

[0068] In one embodiment, the backboard need not take the form of backboard 16, but can take a variety of other forms, such as a metal or plastic sheet. Another embodiment can include a two-piece backboard that omits a movable hinge. In this example, each of the two pieces can include corresponding structures that enable the two pieces to be removably attached to each other. In one embodiment, these corresponding structures can collectively define a hinge so that one piece of the backboard can snap into the other piece of the backboard and can rotate relative to the other piece. Thus, one piece of the backboard can include an integral pin element extending along one edge, and the other piece of the backboard can include one or more integral opening elements having a generally cylindrical configuration and including longitudinal openings, each of the longitudinal openings being configured to accommodate a pin element or a portion of a pin element. In one embodiment, a single pin can be provided to connect the two pieces.

[0069] D. Aspects of the Example Base

[0070] Now refer to Figure 9 、 Figure 10 and Figure 11 , provides details regarding an example base 18. As shown, the base 18 can include a cover 30 that mates with a bottom portion 32. In one embodiment, a rim 30a of the cover 30 can extend downwardly a distance and outwardly of a wall 32a of the bottom portion 32 to help prevent foreign matter from entering the bottom portion 32 and to prevent materials such as ballast from being discharged from the base 18 into the environment. In one embodiment, the cover 30 fits over and around the backboard 16 when the backboard 16 is as shown. Figure 10 When folded as shown, the backboard 16 may be at least partially contained within the bottom portion 32 .

[0071] like Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the bottom portion 32 of the base 18 can be configured to house one, some, or all of the components of the basketball system 10. Components of the basketball system 10 that can be completely housed within the base 18 can include, but are not limited to, the legs 20, the struts 21, the wheels 22, the basket 14, the backboard 16, and the support structure 12 including one or more segments 12a, and the axles 34 that support the wheels 22. In one embodiment, some components housed within the base 18 can be nested within other components. For example, Figure 12As best shown, one or more of the legs 20 and / or struts 21 may fit within one of the segments 12a.

[0072] Next go to Figure 13 and Figure 14 , and continue to refer to Figure 12 , an embodiment of the base 18 may include various other elements, any or all of which may be integrally formed as part of the base. For example, the base 18 may include one or more, possibly integral, locating elements that may be sized, configured, and positioned within the base 18 to help maintain one or more components in a desired orientation and position within or outside the base 18. Figure 12 and Figure 13 , locating elements 36 are shown that are located in the corners of the interior of the bottom portion 32 and that can help hold the wheels 22 in place within the bottom portion 32. In this example, the curved geometry of the locating elements 36 is similar to the shape of the wheels 22. Other locating elements that are sized, configured, and positioned within the base 18 can be provided to help hold other components.

[0073] like Figure 12 and Figure 12a As shown, in particular, another example of an element that can be housed in the base 18 is a handle and / or grip. In particular, the bottom portion 32 can also include an integral handle 38 that can include a recess formed in the wall 32a of the bottom portion.

[0074] Now special reference Figure 13 (inside the bottom portion 32) and Figure 14 (outside the bottom portion 32), the example base 18 may include other elements. Specifically, the recess 40 may be provided on the outside of the bottom portion 32. Figure 15 As shown, the recess 40 can be sized and configured to partially accommodate a corresponding portion of the leg 20, which can be attached to a corresponding end of the shaft 34. In one embodiment, with particular reference now to Figure 15 The depth of the recess 40 may be such that the leg 20 is flush with the bottom surface of the bottom portion 32 , ie, does not extend below the bottom surface of the bottom portion 32 .

[0075] like Figure 15 As shown, and also concerned Figure 16, one embodiment may include a cross-member 42 that can be stored in the base 18 along with the other components described herein when not in use. When the basketball system 10 is in use, the cross-member 42 can be located inside the bottom portion 32 and removably connected to the legs 20 via fasteners (not shown) that extend through the structure of the cross-member 42 and bottom portion 32 and into or through the legs 20. Among other things, the cross-member 42 can provide lateral stiffness to the basketball system 10 while also holding the legs 20 in place within the recesses 40. The cross-member 42 can also help secure the base 18 from moving relative to the legs 20 and support posts 21. Figure 17 Base 18 is shown fully assembled to legs 20 and various other elements of basketball system 10 .

[0076] E. Alternative Embodiments of Backboards and Bases

[0077] E.1 Figures 18-27 Implementation

[0078] Follow now Figure 18 、 Figure 19 、 Figure 20 、 Figure 21 、 Figure 22 、 Figure 23 、 Figure 24 、 Figure 25 、 Figure 26 and Figure 27 , which provides details about additional embodiments of the backboard and base. Figures 18-21 , discloses an embodiment of a backboard 50. In one embodiment, backboard 50 can include two separable portions 52 and 54 that can be configured, for example, to form a lap joint 55 when joined to one another, and lap joint 55 can define one or more seams 57 extending along the width of backboard 50. In one embodiment, portions 52 and 54 can include respective blow-molded elements, or can be formed using any other molding or manufacturing process. In one embodiment, portions 52 and / or 54 can alternatively each include glass, fiberglass, wood, or composite material(s).

[0079] Fasteners 56 may be used to connect portions 52 and 54. Such fasteners 56 may include removable fasteners, such as screws or bolts. Fasteners 56 may be located on the backside of backboard 50, i.e., on the side of backboard 50 opposite the side to which a basketball hoop (not shown) is attached or attachable. In one embodiment, a tongue-and-groove joint may be used in place of lap joint 55. In one embodiment, lap joint 55, or other joint between portions 52 and 54, may extend along the width of backboard 50. In another embodiment, lap joint 55 or other joint may extend along the height of backboard 50. In one embodiment, backboard 50 may be disassembled, and portions 52 and 54 may be partially or fully assembled within a base, such as base 18.

[0080] Now refer to Figure 22-24 One embodiment of a backboard is generally designated 60. In one embodiment, backboard 60 may include two separable portions 62 and 64 that, when positioned as shown, may be configured to define a recess 66. In the disclosed example, portion 62 defines a generally U-shaped channel extending across the width of portion 62. Accordingly, portion 64 defines an extension 65 configured to extend over and cover a portion or all of the U-shaped channel defined by portion 62. Thus, the U-shaped channel and extension 65 may cooperate to define recess 66. When portions 62 and 64 are connected, two widthwise or lengthwise seams 67 may be defined in backboard 60. That is, seams 67 may extend from one side edge of backboard 60 to the other side edge of backboard 60, or alternatively, may extend from the top edge of backboard 60 to the bottom edge of backboard 60.

[0081] In one embodiment, parts 62 and 64 may comprise respective blow molded elements, or may be formed using any other molding or manufacturing process. In one embodiment, parts 62 and / or 64 may alternatively comprise glass, fiberglass, wood, or composite material(s), respectively.

[0082] In one embodiment, the recess 66 may have a square or rectangular cross-section, but there is no particular requirement for the cross-sectional shape of the recess 66. A reinforcement 68 may be provided, and in one embodiment, the reinforcement 68 may include a square tube made of metal and / or other materials disclosed herein, which is constructed to be removably accommodated within the recess 66. The cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement 68 may mimic the cross-sectional shape of the recess 66. Thus, in the example shown, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement 68 is generally square or rectangular. In one embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcement 68 and the cross-sectional shape of the recess 66 may be circular, triangular, or polygonal. In one embodiment, the reinforcement 68 may include one or more metal flat bars that are located within the recess 66 having a shape and size corresponding to the size and configuration of the (one or more) flat bars. When not in use, the reinforcement 68 may be partially or completely disposed within the interior of the base.

[0083] In one embodiment, one or more fasteners 70 can be used to connect portions 62 and 64, possibly removably. For example, fasteners 70 can pass through extension 65 and reinforcement 68 and into the interior of reinforcement 68. Such fasteners 70 can include removable fasteners, such as screws or bolts. Fasteners 70 can be located on the backside of backboard 60, i.e., on the side of backboard 60 opposite the side to which a basketball hoop (not shown) is attached or attachable. In one embodiment, backboard 60 can be disassembled, such as by removing fasteners 70, and portions 62 and 64, and reinforcement 68 can be partially or fully assembled within a base (e.g., base 18).

[0084] Now go to Figure 25 、 Figure 26 and Figure 27 , discloses an example apparatus 71 that includes a base 72 and a backboard 73 that includes portions 74 and 76 that can be removably attached to each other and to the base 72. In one embodiment, the backboard 73 can be similar or identical to the backboard 50.

[0085] In one embodiment, both sides of the base 72 may be open so that a housing may be defined by attaching portions 74 and 76 to respective sides of the base 72, as shown. Figure 25-27 In one embodiment, the housing thus defined may be sized and configured to fully house the basketball system components, including but not limited to the support structure, basket, wheels, axles, nets, legs, reinforcements, and struts. The base 72 and the corresponding back portions of portions 74 and 76 may also include one or more locating structures, which may be similar to Figure 12 The positioning structure mentioned in 36. Although Figure 25-27Although not specifically indicated in the drawings, the base 72 may also include a handle, examples of which are disclosed herein. One or more handles may be integrally formed with the portion 74 and / or portion 76.

[0086] As with other embodiments disclosed herein, portions 74 and 76, and base 72 may comprise corresponding blow-molded elements, or may be formed using any other molding or manufacturing process. In one embodiment, portions 74 and / or 76, and base 72 may alternatively each comprise glass, fiberglass, wood, or composite material(s).

[0087] Portions 74 and 76 can be removably connected to base 72 in a variety of ways. For example, in one embodiment, portions 74 / 76 and base 72 can each include complementary structures that are configured to removably engage with one another, such as by a snap fit or other mechanism. For example, portions 74 / 76 can include pins that are configured to be removably received in corresponding holes defined by base 72, or the reverse configuration can be employed, with base 72 defining the pins and the holes defined by portions 74 / 76. In one embodiment, portions 74 / 76 can be connected to base 72 only along a portion or all of their respective perimeters. In one embodiment, one or the other of portions 74 / 76 and base 72 can define one or more recesses that are configured to removably receive a protrusion that can include, for example, a barbed cross-section of the other of portions 74 / 76 and base 72. In one embodiment, one or more complementary structures can include a plurality of discrete elements arranged along a portion or all of the circumference of the element that includes them. In one embodiment, the one or more complementary structures can take the form of a single element arranged along part or all of the circumference of the element in which it is included. No particular number or configuration of complementary structures is required in any embodiment. In one embodiment, one or both of the portions 74 / 76, or the base 72, can define a slot or track, such as a T-shaped slot, that slidingly accommodates a protruding element of the other of the portion 74 / 76 or the base 72 (which protruding element can have a corresponding T-shaped configuration) so that the portion 74 / 76 can be slid onto or off the base 72. Where a slot is provided, the slot can include a stop at one end to limit the range of motion of the portion 74 / 76 relative to the base 72.

[0088] Complementary structure or other elements that enable portions 74 / 76 to releasably engage base 72 may be located on the backside of backboard 73 so as not to interfere with the basket (not shown) when attached to backboard 73. In one embodiment, one or more fasteners, such as screws or bolts, may be used in addition to or in lieu of the complementary structure to enable portions 74 / 76 to releasably connect to base 72.

[0089] E.2 Figures 28-31 Implementation

[0090] Follow now Figure 28 、 Figure 29 、 Figure 30 and Figure 31 , these figures provide details of another embodiment of a backboard, generally designated 80. Unless otherwise noted in the following discussion, backboard 80 can be similar or identical to any other backboard disclosed herein.

[0091] like Figures 29-31 As shown, the backboard 80 may include a living hinge 82 that is integrally formed with and connects a first portion 84 and a second portion 86 of the backboard 80. Figure 30 and Figure 31 As shown, when the first portion 84 and the second portion 86 of the backboard 80 are laid flat, i.e., arranged at an angle of approximately 180 degrees relative to each other, the living hinge 82 can be constructed and arranged to define a generally V-shaped channel 88, i.e., a channel 88 having a generally V-shaped cross-section. In other embodiments, the channel 88 can have, for example, a generally rectangular shape, a polygonal shape, or a circular shape.

[0092] The channel 88 may be generally parallel to the upper edge 90 and the lower edge 92 of the backboard 80. Figure 28 and Figure 29 As best shown, the channel 88 can be sized and configured to fully or partially accommodate the reinforcement member 94. The depth of the channel 88 can be such that when the reinforcement member 94 is disposed in the channel 88, the reinforcement member 94 is partially or completely located under the back of the backboard 80.

[0093] The reinforcement 94 may include a tube or a solid block of material made of metal, plastic, and / or other materials. The reinforcement 94 may have any suitable cross-sectional shape. In one embodiment, the cross-sectional shape may be similar to the cross-sectional shape of the channel 88, but this is not required. Figure 29 Some example cross-sectional shapes of the reinforcement member 94 include rectangular, polygonal, or circular. The length of the reinforcement member 94 can be equal to or less than the width of the backboard 80.

[0094] Continue to refer Figures 28-31As with various other embodiments herein, backboard 80 may include additional reinforcements 96 and 98 disposed on the sides of backboard 80. However, reinforcements 96 and 98 may be omitted, and backboard 80 may include only reinforcement 94.

[0095] In operation, reinforcement member 94 can help improve the resiliency of backboard 80. For example, due to the certain elasticity of the plastic material used in the construction of portion 84, a force applied by a player and / or a ball on portion 84 can cause portion 84 to rotate backward about reinforcement member 94 toward portion 86. After the force is removed, portion 84 supported by reinforcement member 94 can return to its original position and orientation, for example by rotating. In this way, the impact generated by the applied force can be absorbed and attenuated to a certain extent by backboard 80. This feature can help improve the durability of backboard 80 and its related components.

[0096] Finally, reference Figure 31 For example, backboard 80 can be configured so that each portion can rotate into contact with another portion, as indicated by the arc representing the range of motion 100 of portions 84 and / or 86. That is, channel 88 and living hinge 82 enable this movement of portions 84 and / or 86. In one embodiment, range of motion 100 can enable one portion to rotate into contact with another portion in a stacked arrangement. When portions 84 and 86 are so arranged, backboard 80 can be partially or completely assembled within a base, examples of which are disclosed herein. As further disclosed herein, such a base can also fully or partially house various other components of a basketball system.

[0097] The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive, and all changes coming within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are intended to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

1. A basketball system comprising: basket; a backboard to which the basket is attachable; a support structure capable of being directly or indirectly connected to the backboard; a leg attachable to the support structure; and A base is provided to which the legs are attachable and which is sized and configured to fully house the basket, the support structure, and the legs.

2. The basketball system of claim 1, wherein: The backboard is foldable and fits within the base when folded.

3. The basketball system of claim 1, wherein: The backboard includes a living hinge extending along the length or width of the backboard.

4. The basketball system of claim 1 , further comprising struts connectable to respective legs and the base, the struts being receivable within the base along with the basket, the backboard, the support structure, and the legs.

5. The basketball system of claim 1 , further comprising an axle and two wheels configured to be positioned on the axle, the wheels and axle being receivable in the base along with the basket, the backboard, the support structure, the legs, and the struts.

6. The basketball system of claim 1 , further comprising a reinforcement member configured to removably engage a recess defined by the backboard and receivable in the base along with the basket, the backboard, the support structure, and the legs.

7. The basketball system of claim 1 , further comprising wheels that enable the basketball system to be rolled from one location to another when the basketball system is in an assembled state.

8. The basketball system of claim 1, wherein: The base includes a bottom portion and a cover removably engaged with the bottom portion.

9. The basketball system of claim 1, wherein: The backboard includes two pieces.

10. A basketball system comprising: A base that houses basketball system components, including: basket; A backboard, the backboard comprising two parts; Support structure; outriggers; one or more wheels; Axis; and pillar.

11. The basketball system of claim 10, wherein: The base includes a bottom portion and a cover removably engaged with the bottom portion.

12. The basketball system of claim 10, wherein: The base defines a locating element integral with the base.

13. The basketball system of claim 10, wherein: The base defines a recess integral therewith, and the recess is configured to receive a corresponding portion of the leg.

14. The basketball system of claim 10, wherein: The base also houses a crossbar and one or more reinforcement members that are removably connected to the backboard.

15. The basketball system of claim 10, wherein: The backboard is foldable.

16. The basketball system of claim 10, wherein: The base defines an integral handle.

17. The basketball system of claim 10, wherein: The base is made of plastic.

18. A backboard, comprising: Part I; Part II; and A living hinge is integral with the first portion and the second portion and connects the first portion and the second portion.

19. The backboard of claim 18, wherein: The backboard is foldable.

20. The backboard of claim 19, wherein: When the backboard is fully collapsed, the first portion and the second portion are stacked on top of each other.

21. The backboard of claim 18, wherein: The living hinge enables one of the first portion and the second portion to rotate approximately 180 degrees or more relative to the other of the first portion and the second portion.

22. The backboard of claim 19, wherein: When the backboard is fully folded, corresponding surfaces of the first portion and the second portion contact each other.

23. The backboard of claim 18, wherein: The backboard includes one or more recessed portions.

24. The backboard of claim 18, wherein: The backboard is hollow.

25. The backboard of claim 18, wherein: The backboard includes a parting line.

26. The backboard of claim 18, wherein: The first portion and the second portion are configured to be positioned relative to each other so as to collectively define a recess extending along a length or width of the backboard.

27. The backboard of claim 26, further comprising a reinforcement member configured to be removably received within the recess.

28. The backboard of claim 18, further comprising a third portion and a second living hinge connecting the third portion to one or both of the first portion and the second portion.

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