Sport ball with sensor

Abstract

A sports ball having: a housing forming at least a portion of an exterior surface of the sports ball; a bladder within the housing, the bladder having a radially outward facing surface oriented away from the center of the sport ball and a radially inward facing surface facing the center of the sport ball; a plurality of weight regions disposed on a radially inwardly facing surface of the bladder, where one or more of the plurality of weight regions includes a feature; and a component on the bladder.

Description

Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 592,723, filed October 24, 2023, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to sports balls, and more particularly to sports balls incorporating sensors. BACKGROUND

[0003] This section provides background information relating to the present disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] Various inflatable sports balls (e.g., soccer balls, footballs, basketballs, and more) generally incorporate a layered structure including an outer shell, a restriction structure, and a bladder. The outer shell forms an outer layer of the sports ball and is typically formed from a durable, wear-resistant material. For example, in soccer and footballs, panels can be joined together along adjoining edges (e.g., by stitching or adhesive). For example, in basketballs, the panels can be secured to an outer surface of a rubber cover for the restriction structure and bladder. The restriction structure forms an intermediate layer of the sports ball and is positioned between the bladder and the outer shell to restrict inflation of the bladder. The bladder, which is typically in an inflatable configuration, is located within the restriction structure to provide an inner layer of the sports ball. To facilitate inflation (i.e., with air, gas, fluid, etc.), the bladder typically includes a valve opening that extends through each of the restriction structure and the outer shell, such that it is accessible from the exterior of the sports ball. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0005] Figure 1 is a front view of a sports ball; Figure 2 is a schematic view of the sports ball of Figure 1 Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the sports ball of Figure 1 Figure 4 is a schematic view of the sports ball of Figure 1 Figure 5 illustrates a plane extending through a polyhedral weight-balancing structure for the sports ball of Figure 4 Figure 6 illustrates a polyhedral weight-balancing structure for the sports ball of Figure 1 Figure 7 illustrates a polyhedral weight-balancing structure for the sports ball of Figure 1 Figure 8 illustrates a polyhedral weight-balancing structure for the sports ball of​​​​​​Figure 1 polyhedral weight balancing structure of a sports ball; and Figure 9 polyhedral weight balancing structure of a sports ball is shown. Figure 1 polyhedral weight balancing structure of a sports ball.

[0006] Corresponding reference numerals in the several figures of the drawings indicate corresponding parts throughout. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0007] The above-mentioned features and advantages of the present teachings, as well as other features and advantages of the present teachings, will be more clearly understood and apparent from the following detailed description of modes for carrying out the present teachings, when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings.

[0008] “A,” “an,” “the,” “at least one,” and “one or more” are used interchangeably to indicate that there is at least one of the item present. Multiple instances of such items can be present unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. All numerical values of parameters (e.g., of quantities or conditions) in this specification, unless otherwise indicated, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about,” irrespective of whether the term “about” is expressly used in conjunction with a numerical value. “About” indicates that a slight deviation from the exact value is acceptable, up to a reasonable amount that would not affect the result to be achieved. If the “about” provided variation is not understood in the art to mean the ordinary meaning of the term “about,” then “about” as used in connection with a numerical value, at least means that the value can vary from the recited value by as much as can be expected in the measurement and use of such parameter. Additionally, disclosure of a range is understood to disclose all values and sub-ranges within the range. All references cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0009] The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, or components. The order of steps, processes, and operations can be altered when possible, and additional or alternative steps can be employed. The term “or” as used in this description means any one and all combinations of the associated listed items. The term “any of” should be understood to include any possible combination of the referenced items, including “any of” the referenced items. The term “any of” should be understood to include any possible combination of the referenced claims, including “any of” the referenced claims.

[0010] One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that terms such as "above," "below," "up," "down," "top," "bottom," and the like are used descriptively and not by way of limitation, relative to the illustrations, as the application defined by the appended claims is not limited to the orientation of the figures.

[0011] In the following discussion, the terms "about," "approximately," "substantially" and the like mean + / - 10% of the value, unless otherwise indicated.

[0012] The following discussion and drawings disclose various bladder configurations for a sport ball. Although the sport ball is primarily discussed and depicted with respect to a soccer ball, the concepts associated with the sport ball can be applied to various other types of inflatable sport balls. Thus, in addition to soccer balls, the concepts discussed herein can be incorporated into, for example, basketballs, footballs (either for American football or rugby football), and volleyballs.

[0013] Inflatable balls can be equipped with valves that have some mass, or sometimes sensors that are inlaid with some mass. This additional mass can affect the performance of the ball. In sport ball designs where a good center of gravity is important for the relevant sport, weighted balance pieces are common. Some sport balls will have a circular rubber patch of additional rubber material inside the sport ball, opposite the seam.

[0014] Some sport balls need to maintain stability performance when struck in random orientations, and thus having a single weighted balance piece can help maintain the center of gravity (CG) near the center of the sport ball. However, such a design creates a high moment of inertia (MOI) for the valve and patch plane of the sport ball relative to the equatorial plane, which can change the flight characteristics of the ball in these respective orientations.

[0015] A sport ball 10 having a soccer ball configuration is depicted in Figure 1 . The sport ball 10 has a layered structure that includes an outer shell 20, a restriction structure 30, and a bladder 40 (see Figure 2 ). In addition, the sport ball 10 can include a component 50, which can be an electronic device, a weighted piece, or both, as described in more detail below.

[0016] The outer shell 20 forms the exterior of the sports ball 10 and includes a plurality of panels 21 that are stitched, adhered, bonded, welded, or otherwise joined together along adjoining sides or edges to form a plurality of seams 22. The panels 21 are depicted as having an equilateral pentagonal or hexagonal shape. However, in other configurations of the sports ball 10, the panels 21 can have non-equilateral shapes, irregular or non-geometric shapes, or various other shapes (e.g., triangular, square, rectangular, trapezoidal, circular, elliptical, and more) that are combined in a tessellation-like arrangement to form the outer shell 20. Each of the panels 21 can also be shaped to have a hexagonal shape. Although the sides of the panels 21 can be linear, the panels 21 can also have concave, convex, or other non-linear sides and / or edges. Selected panels 21 can be integral with adjacent panels 21 to form bridging panels that reduce the number of seams 22. In further configurations, the outer shell 20 can have a seamless structure (i.e., where all of the seams 22 are absent). Thus, the construction of the outer shell 20 can vary significantly to include various configurations for the panels 21 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0017] The material selected for the outer shell 20 or individual panels 21 can be leather, synthetic leather, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, rubber, or other generally durable and abrasion-resistant materials. In some configurations, each of the panels 21 can have a layered configuration that incorporates two or more materials. For example, each panel 21 can include a non-foamed polymer layer and a polymer foam layer. As another example, an outer portion of each panel 21 can be a polyvinyl chloride layer, a middle portion of each panel 21 can be a polymer foam layer, and an inner portion of each panel 21 can be a fabric layer.

[0018] Reference is made to Figure 2The restriction structure 30 forms a mid-layer of the sport ball 10 and is positioned between the cover 20 and the bladder 40. Generally, the restriction structure 30 is formed of a material that has limited stretch in order to restrict the inflation of the bladder 40, but can have various configurations or purposes. As examples, the restriction structure 30 can be formed of: (a) a thread, yarn, or filament that is repeatedly wrapped around the bladder 40 in various directions to form a web that substantially covers all of the bladder 40; (b) a plurality of generally flat or planar fabric elements that are stitched, woven, or knit together to form a structure that extends around the bladder 40; (c) a plurality of generally flat or planar fabric strips that are latex impregnated and placed in an overlapping configuration around the bladder 40; or (d) a substantially seamless, spherical fabric. In some configurations of the sport ball 10, the restriction structure 30 can also be bonded, joined, or otherwise incorporated into either of the cover 20 and the bladder 40, or the restriction structure 30 can be entirely absent from the sport ball 10. Thus, the construction of the restriction structure 30 can vary significantly to include various configurations and materials without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0019] The bladder 40 has an inflatable configuration and is located within the restriction structure 30 to provide an interior portion of the sport ball 10. When inflated, the bladder 40 assumes a circular or generally spherical shape. The bladder 40 includes a radially outward-facing surface that is oriented away from the center of the sport ball 10 and a radially inward-facing surface that faces toward the center of the sport ball 10. To facilitate inflation and / or deflation, the bladder 40 includes a valve 41 that extends through the restriction structure 30 and the cover 20 so as to be accessible from the exterior of the sport ball 10. In other configurations, the bladder 40 can have a valveless structure that is semi-permanently inflated. The bladder 40 can be formed of a rubber or carbon latex material that substantially prevents the diffusion of air or other fluids within the bladder 40 to the exterior of the sport ball 10. In addition to rubber and carbon latex, various other polymeric or elastomeric (i.e., stretchable) materials can be used for the bladder 40.

[0020] Still referring to FIG. 1, the sport ball 10 includes a cover 20 that is positioned around the restriction structure 30 and the bladder 40. The cover 20 is formed of a material that is substantially inelastic, i.e., the cover 20 does not substantially stretch when the bladder 40 is inflated. In some configurations, the cover 20 can be formed of a material that has limited stretch in order to restrict the inflation of the bladder 40. As examples, the cover 20 can be formed of: (a) a leather or synthetic leather material; (b) a polymeric or elastomeric material; (c) a fabric material; or (d) a combination of the above materials. In some configurations, the cover 20 can also be bonded, joined, or otherwise incorporated into the restriction structure 30 and / or the bladder 40. Thus, the construction of the cover 20 can vary significantly to include various configurations and materials without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Figure 2The component 50 is positioned within a pocket 42 formed in the bladder 40 and can be an electronic device, a weight, or both an electronic device and a weight. As an electronic device, the component 50 can include a combination of one or more of a microprocessor, a transmitter, a receiver, a memory, a battery, and / or other combinations of elements configured and operable to process, send, receive, and / or collect data. More specifically, examples of electronic devices suitable for the component 50 include one or more of: (a) a sensor for determining an indicator (e.g., pressure, temperature, or force) within the bladder 40; (b) a global positioning system (i.e., GPS) unit or accelerometer that measures various factors related to the position or movement of the sports ball 10, including acceleration, rotation, speed, altitude, and direction; (c) a line sensor that determines whether the sports ball 10 has crossed a goal line or a boundary line; (d) a radio frequency identification (i.e., RFID) chip that stores data related to the sports ball 10 or assists in identifying the sports ball 10; and (e) a camera or imaging device that detects and collects image data. As a weight, the component 50 can enhance the balance, weight distribution, center of mass, or other physical characteristics of the sports ball 10. More specifically, the component 50 can be any object that functions as a weight. However, in many configurations, the component 50 can be an electronic device that also has the advantage of being a weight.

[0021] Pressurizing the bladder 40 with air or another fluid causes the sports ball 10 to assume a generally spherical shape. More specifically, the fluid pressure within the bladder 40 causes the bladder 40 to exert an outward force on the restraining structure 30. In turn, the restraining structure 30 exerts the outward force on the outer shell 20. To limit the expansion of the bladder 40 and also to limit the tension in the outer shell 20, the restraining structure 30 is typically formed from a material that has a limited degree of stretch. In other words, the bladder 40 exerts an outward force on the restraining structure 30, but the stretch characteristics of the restraining structure 30 effectively prevent the outward force from causing significant tension in the outer shell 20. Thus, the restraining structure 30 can serve to contain the pressure from the bladder 40 while allowing the outward force from the bladder 40 to cause a generally spherical shape in the outer shell 20, thereby imparting a generally spherical shape to the sports ball 10.

[0022] The pocket 42 is sized, shaped, and / or otherwise configured to provide a cavity, recess, void, or other space that receives the component 50. When the bladder 40 is incorporated into the sports ball 10, the pocket 42 projects inwardly and toward the center of the sports ball 10, as depicted in Figure 2 and Figure 3 so as to position the component 50 within an interior region of the sports ball 10. In this position, the component 50 is shielded from external impacts by feet, surfaces, or other objects when the sports ball 10 is in use.

[0023] The shape and size of the recess 42 accommodate the component 50. That is, the configuration of the recess 42 can be selected to form a cavity that receives the component 50 and securely holds the component 50 within the moving ball 10. Therefore, it should be understood that although the recess 42 is shown and described herein as having a generally rectangular cross-sectional profile corresponding to the generally rectangular configuration of the component 50, the recess 42 may have various other suitable shapes, sizes, and / or configurations according to the profile of the component 50 without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0024] As described above, component 50 can be a counterweight that enhances the balance, weight distribution, center of mass, or other properties of the moving ball 10. (See also...) Figure 2 For example, valve 41 is located opposite recess 42. That is, valve 41 and recess 42 are located on opposite sides of bladder 40 and positioned along an axis extending through the center of bladder 40. Valve 41 increases the mass of one side of the moving ball 10, and the combination of recess 42 and component 50 increases the mass of the opposite side of the moving ball 10. By balancing these masses, the moving ball 10 achieves a better balance than if recess 42 and component 50 were not present. However, in practice, these masses may not be equal. However, the balance and other properties of the moving ball 10 can be enhanced when the combined mass of recess 42 and component 50 is in the range of about 75% to about 125% of the mass of valve 41. Therefore, when valve 41 and component 50 are located on opposite sides of the moving ball 10 and positioned along a common axis (i.e., axis 45), the mass of the moving ball 10 can be more evenly distributed, and the center of gravity of the moving ball 10 can be positioned more centrally.

[0025] like Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, a plurality of counterweight regions 300 are disposed on the radially innermost surface of the motion ball 10. These plurality of counterweight regions 300 can be formed in any suitable size, shape, and / or configuration, including but not limited to points or other shapes. In one example, these counterweight regions 300 may include one or more features configured to space the bladder 40 from the restraining structure 30. These one or more features may be arranged in clusters within the motion ball 10. In one example, the bladder 40 includes a first (inner) surface 40a and a second (outer) surface 40b. The first surface 40a is configured to face the interior of the motion ball 10. The second surface 40b is configured to contact the surface of the restraining structure 30. The counterweight regions 300 may be disposed at multiple locations along the first surface 40a, such as at periodic intervals that are uniformly or non-uniformly spaced relative to each other.

[0026] The weight areas 300 can include a plurality of dots, spots, or formations. In some embodiments, the weight areas 300 can be printed, laminated, deposited, or formed on the first surface 40a by any other suitable manner of adhering the weight areas 300 to portions of the sports ball 10. For example, when printed, the weight areas 300 are formed directly on the first surface 40a. As described above, the weight areas 300 are disposed on the radially inward facing first surface 40a of the sports ball 10. The plurality of weight areas 300 are not limited in size to the configurations shown and described herein, and can vary from relatively small sized areas to relatively large sized areas. It is contemplated that when forming smaller sized weight areas 300, a greater number of discrete weight areas 300 can be included along the first surface 40a in order to achieve a desired weight balance of the total weight and weight distribution of the sports ball 10. The weight areas 300 can have a total weight that is directly proportional to the weight of the component 50. In some instances, the weight areas 300 can have a total weight that is less than the weight of the component 50. In some instances, the weight areas 300 can have a total weight that is greater than the weight of the component 50.

[0027] In an example, the weight areas 300 include a number of dots that are composed of a material that adds overall weight to the sports ball 10. The material can be, for example, rubber, silicone, or the like. The number of dots included in a given weight area 300 can range from about 1 dot to about 1000 dots. The number of dots included in a given weight area 300 can range from about 50 dots to about 750 dots. The number of dots included in a given weight area 300 can range from about 100 dots to about 500 dots. In an example, a greater number of dots can be included when including a weight area 300 having a relatively large size. The number of dots included in the weight areas 300 can be selectively scaled up or down in order to achieve a desired weight balance of the total weight and weight distribution of the sports ball 10.

[0028] Additionally, the size of any individual dot can be selectively scaled up or down in order to achieve a desired number of dots in a given weight area 300, thereby achieving a desired weight balance of the total weight and weight distribution of the sports ball 10. For example, a given dot can have a diameter ranging from about 0.05 mm to about 100 mm. As another example, the dots can have a size that occupies a certain percentage of the surface area of the weight area 300. For example, the dots of the weight area 300 can cover from about 0.001% to about 99.999% of the surface area of the weight area 300.

[0029] The weight regions 300 can be evenly spaced along the bladder 40 or can be spaced at uneven and / or clustered intervals relative to the bladder 40. In other embodiments, the weight regions 300 can be randomly spaced along the bladder 40. While only shown as being disposed on a portion of the first surface 40a of the bladder 40, the weight regions 300 can be disposed circumferentially along the entire first surface 40a. In other instances, the weight regions 300 can be positioned and / or clustered along the first surface 40a opposite the location of the component 50. The weight regions 300 can be disposed circumferentially along the first surface 40a as needed to counterbalance the weight of the component 50 of the sports ball 10. For example, a single cluster or group of weight regions 300 can be positioned opposite the component 50. As another example, the weight regions 300 can be positioned individually or in an ordered cluster along the first surface 40a to achieve a desired level of counterbalancing the weight of the component 50 of the sports ball 10. For example, a cluster of weight regions 300 can be positioned opposite the component 50. In another example, a cluster or multiple clusters of weight regions 300 can be positioned in a first (lower) hemisphere of the sports ball 10 while the component is positioned in a second (upper) hemisphere of the sports ball 10 opposite the first hemisphere. In some other instances, the cluster or multiple clusters of weight regions 300 can be positioned along the first surface 40a as needed to counterbalance the weight of the component 50 and / or the valve 41. The placement of the cluster or multiple clusters of weight regions 300 allows the sports ball 10 to maintain a desired level of sphericity, as well as a desired level of movement profile (e.g., flight) of the sports ball 10.

[0030] Still referring to Figure 3 The plurality of weight regions 300 can have a substantially flat and / or planar surface 300a. In other instances, the surface 300a can be generally circular and / or curved. It is contemplated that the surface 300a can be triangular, pyramidal, or any other suitable shape to optimize the counterbalancing properties of the weight in the weight region 300 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0031] The sports ball 10 including the pattern having an increased number of weight regions 300 allows the bladder 40 to inflate into a sphere. In other words, as the number of weight regions 300 in the sports ball 10 increases, the sphericity of the bladder 40 and the sports ball 10 is improved as compared to a counterbalanced sports ball having other counterbalancing designs. This is because as the bladder 40 is reinforced, the location of the weight regions 300 affects the stretching of the bladder 40 during the manufacturing process. The sports ball 10 including the pattern described above provides space between adjacent weight regions 300, thereby allowing the sports ball 10 to stretch consistently. The number, density, positioning, or volume of each weight region 300 can be selectively adjusted based on the desired CG and / or the desired MOI while allowing the bladder 40 to be spherical.

[0032] In some embodiments, the counterweight region 300 may be positioned on top of the restraining structure 30. In such embodiments, the height of the counterweight region 300 may be less than about 15 mm. The height of the counterweight region 300 may be selectively adjusted based on the desired sphericity and / or the weight of the sports ball 10. To accommodate the thin structure of the counterweight region 300 on top of the restraining structure 30, a material denser than polyurethane (PU) foam may be included in the sports ball 10. For example, the material may be memory foam, high-elasticity foam, latex foam, etc. In other embodiments, the plurality of counterweight regions 300 may be disposed on the housing 20.

[0033] These counterweight zones 300 are positioned relative to component 50 to optimally balance the moving ball 10. For example, these counterweight zones 300 may be positioned directly opposite component 50. (See reference) Figures 4 to 9 To balance the weights of the bladder 40 and component 50, the counterweight area 300 can be arranged in a polyhedral counterweight balance design to help ensure that the moment of inertia is closer in any orientation.

[0034] exist Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the moving ball 10 is shown using points A, B, C, and D. Points A, B, C, and D correspond to points on the moving ball 10, where dashed lines extend between multiple counterweight regions 300 and / or components 50, forming the polyhedral counterweight balance design. In one example, a first plane BCD extends between points B, C, and D. The first plane BCD forms an equilateral triangle between points B, C, and D, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving ball 10. A second plane ABC extends between points A, B, and C. The second plane ABC forms an equilateral triangle between points A, B, and C, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving ball 10. A third plane ACD extends between points A, C, and D. The third plane ACD forms an equilateral triangle between points A, C, and D, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving ball 10. A fourth plane ABD extends between points A, B, and D. The fourth plane ABD forms an equilateral triangle between points A, B, and D, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving ball 10. In this example, point A corresponds to the position of component 50. Points B, C, and D correspond to the positions of counterweight region 300. In other examples, any one of points A, B, C, and D can represent either component 50 or counterweight region 300. Point O represents the moment of inertia of the moving ball 10.

[0035] exist Figures 5 to 9Various exemplary embodiments of using a polyhedral counterweight balancing design to ensure that the moment of inertia is closer in any orientation are illustrated. For example, different regular shapes (i.e., hexagons, tetrahedrons, octagons, dodecahedrons, etc.) can be implemented within the moving sphere 10. In other instances, any polyhedral counterweight balancing design (where any plane extending through the polyhedral shape does not contact each anchor point or corner of the polyhedral shape) may be suitable. Figure 5 The third plane ACD, which extends through points A, C, and D, is shown.

[0036] Figure 6 Another example of a polyhedral counterweight balance design for a moving sphere 10 is shown. Points A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H correspond to points on the moving sphere 10, where dashed lines extend between multiple counterweight regions 300 and / or components 50, forming a polyhedral counterweight balance design. In one example, a first plane ABCD extends between points A, B, C, and D. The first plane ABCD forms a square between points A, B, C, and D, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving sphere 10. A second plane CDGH extends between points C, D, G, and H. The second plane CDGH forms a square between points C, D, G, and H, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving sphere 10. A third plane EFGH extends between points E, F, G, and H. The third plane EFGH forms a square between points E, F, G, and H, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving sphere 10. A fourth plane ABEF extends between points A, B, E, and F. The fourth plane ABEF forms a square between points A, B, E, and F, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving ball 10. The fifth plane BCFG extends between points B, C, F, and G. The sixth plane ADEH extends between points A, D, E, and H. In this example, any one of points A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H can represent component 50 or counterweight region 300.

[0037] Figure 7Another example of a polyhedral counterweight balance design for a moving ball 10 is shown. Points A, B, C, D, E, and F correspond to points on the moving ball 10, where dashed lines extend between multiple counterweight regions 300 and / or components 50, forming a polyhedral counterweight balance design. In one example, a first plane ABC extends between points A, B, and C. The first plane ABC forms an equilateral triangle between points A, B, and C, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving ball 10. A second plane ABE extends between points A, B, and E. The second plane ABE forms an equilateral triangle between points A, B, and E, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving ball 10. A third plane ACD extends between points A, C, and D. The third plane ACD forms an equilateral triangle between points A, C, and D, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving ball 10. A fourth plane ADE extends between points A, D, and E. The fourth plane ADE forms an equilateral triangle between points A, D, and E, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving ball 10. The fifth plane BCDE extends between points B, C, D, and E. It forms a square between these points, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving ball 10. The sixth plane BCF extends between points B, C, and F. It forms an equilateral triangle between these points, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving ball 10. The seventh plane CDF extends between points C, D, and F. It forms an equilateral triangle between these points, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving ball 10. The eighth plane DEF extends between points D, E, and F. It forms an equilateral triangle between these points, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving ball 10. The ninth plane BEF extends between points B, E, and F. It forms an equilateral triangle between these points, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving ball 10. In the example, any one of points A, B, C, D, E, and F can represent component 50 or counterweight area 300.

[0038] Figure 8Another example of a polyhedral counterweight balance design for a moving sphere 10 is shown. Points A to T correspond to points on the moving sphere 10, with dashed lines extending between multiple counterweight regions 300 and / or components 50, forming a polyhedral counterweight balance design. In one example, a first plane ABCDE extends between points A, B, C, D, and E. The first plane ABCDE forms a pentagon between points A, B, C, D, and E, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving sphere 10. A second plane ABLMN extends between points A, B, L, M, and N. The second plane ABLMN forms a pentagon between points A, B, L, M, and N, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving sphere 10. A third plane AEFON extends between points A, E, F, O, and N. The third plane AEFON forms a pentagon between points A, E, F, O, and N, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving sphere 10. A fourth plane DEFGH extends between points D, E, F, G, and H. The fourth plane, DEFGH, forms a pentagon between points D, E, F, G, and H, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving sphere 10. The fifth plane, DCJIH, extends between points D, C, J, I, and H. The sixth plane, CBLKJ, extends between points C, B, L, K, and J, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving sphere 10. The seventh plane, PQRST, extends between points P, Q, R, S, and T, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving sphere 10. The eighth plane, FGTPO, extends between points F, G, T, P, and O. The eighth plane, FGTPO, forms an equilateral triangle between points F, G, T, P, and O, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving sphere 10. The ninth plane, GHIST, extends between points G, H, I, S, and T. The tenth plane, IJKRS, extends between points I, J, K, R, and S, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving sphere 10. The eleventh plane, KLMQR, extends between points K, L, M, Q, and R, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving sphere 10. The twelfth plane, MNOPQ, extends between points M, N, O, P, and Q. The twelfth plane MNOPQ forms an equilateral triangle between points M, N, O, P, and Q, representing the balance of rotational inertia in the moving ball 10. In this example, any point from A to T can represent component 50 or counterweight region 300.

[0039] like Figure 9 As shown, the placement of the counterweight regions 300 and components 50 allows for the drawing of dashed lines between the respective counterweight regions 300 and / or components 50. Such lines form contact points between the various counterweight regions 300 and / or components 50 to form the different regular shapes (i.e., hexagons, tetrahedrons, octagons, dodecahedrons, etc.).

[0040] Additional methods for counterweight balancing of component 50 are contemplated as part of the scope of this disclosure. The bladder 40 can be counterweighted by adding a rubber sheet to the bladder itself. However, this can cause problems when constructing a constrained bladder 40, as the inflated, counterweight-balanced bladder will stretch inconsistently during the application of the constraining layer and will not expand into a sphere.

[0041] Therefore, various aspects of the sports ball 10 and the recess 42 can vary, depending on, for example, the sports in which the sports ball 10 is intended to be used during its use, as well as the configuration and purpose of the component 50.

[0042] While several models for implementing many aspects of this teaching have been described in detail, those skilled in the art to which this teaching relates will recognize various alternative aspects for practicing this teaching within the scope of the appended claims. It is intended that everything contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings be construed as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0043] The following terms provide an exemplary configuration of a moving ball that includes the sensor described above.

[0044] Clause 1. A sports ball, comprising: a shell forming at least a portion of an outer surface of the sports ball; a bladder located within the shell, the bladder having a radially outward-facing surface and a radially inward-facing surface, the radially outward-facing surface being oriented away from a center of the sports ball, and the radially inward-facing surface facing the center of the sports ball; a plurality of counterweight regions disposed on the radially inward-facing surface of the bladder, wherein one or more of the plurality of counterweight regions includes features; and a component located on the bladder.

[0045] Clause 2. The ball of claim 1, wherein the bladder includes a recess defining a cavity for receiving the component, and wherein the component includes a valve.

[0046] Clause 3. The ball of motion according to Clause 1, wherein the plurality of counterweight regions and components are uniformly spaced around the radially inward surface of the bladder.

[0047] Clause 4. The sports ball according to Clause 1, wherein the plurality of weight zones comprise a plurality of weight points, wherein the number of the plurality of weight points in each weight zone is between 5 and 100.

[0048] Clause 5. The sports ball according to Clause 4, wherein the plurality of weight zones include a first weight, the first weight being greater than a second weight of the component.

[0049] Clause 6. The sports ball according to Clause 1, wherein the plurality of counterweight areas are arranged in clusters opposite the component.

[0050] Clause 7. The ball according to Clause 1, wherein the plurality of weight regions and the component are arranged along the radially inward surface such that a polyhedral pattern is formed between the respective weight regions of the plurality of weight regions.

[0051] Clause 8. The sports ball according to Clause 1, wherein one or more of the plurality of counterweight regions are disposed on the limiting structure of the sports ball.

[0052] Clause 9. The sports ball according to Clause 1, wherein one or more of the plurality of counterweight areas are disposed on the housing.

[0053] Clause 10. The sports ball according to Clause 4, wherein the plurality of weight points comprise a first material, the bladder comprises a second material, and the shell comprises a third material, and wherein the first material is different from each of the second and third materials.

[0054] Clause 11. The ball of motion according to Clause 1, wherein the ball of motion comprises a first hemisphere and a second hemisphere, wherein the component is disposed in the first hemisphere, and wherein one or more of the plurality of counterweight regions are disposed in the second hemisphere.

[0055] Clause 12. A sports ball comprising: a shell forming at least a portion of an outer surface of the sports ball; a bladder located within the shell, the bladder having a radially outward-facing surface and a radially inward-facing surface, the radially outward-facing surface being oriented away from the center of the sports ball, and the radially inward-facing surface being oriented towards the center of the sports ball; a component located within the bladder having a first weight; and a plurality of counterweight regions arranged in a cluster along the radially inward-facing surface of the bladder such that the plurality of counterweight regions form a counterweight balance with the component, wherein the plurality of counterweight regions have a second weight.

[0056] Clause 13. The sports ball according to Clause 12, wherein the second weight of the plurality of counterweight regions is greater than the first weight of the component.

[0057] Clause 14. The ball according to Clause 12, wherein the plurality of counterweight regions are disposed in a first hemisphere of the ball, and wherein the component is disposed in a second hemisphere of the ball, the first hemisphere forming an upper portion of the ball, and the second hemisphere forming a lower portion of the ball.

[0058] Clause 15. The sports ball according to Clause 14, wherein the plurality of weight zones are arranged on the bladder in a manner directly opposite to the component.

[0059] Clause 16. The ball according to Clause 12, wherein the plurality of weight areas includes one or more weight points covering at least a portion of the surface area of ​​the plurality of weight areas.

[0060] Clause 17. The sports ball as described in Clause 16, wherein one or more of the weight points comprise a rubber material.

[0061] Clause 18. The sports ball according to Clause 16, wherein the one or more weight points comprise a first material, the bladder comprises a second material, and the shell comprises a third material, and wherein the first material is different from each of the second and third materials.

[0062] Clause 19. The ball according to Clause 16, wherein one or more of the weight points have a height between 1 mm and 10 mm.

[0063] Clause 20. The ball of motion according to Clause 12, wherein the ball of motion comprises a first hemisphere and a second hemisphere, wherein the component is disposed in the first hemisphere, and wherein one or more of the plurality of counterweight regions are disposed in the second hemisphere.

Claims

1. A sports ball, comprising: A housing that forms at least a portion of the outer surface of the moving ball; A bladder located within the outer shell, the bladder having a radially outward-facing surface and a radially inward-facing surface, the radially outward-facing surface being oriented away from the center of the moving ball, and the radially inward-facing surface facing the center of the moving ball; Multiple counterweight regions are disposed on the radially inward surface of the bladder, wherein one or more of the multiple counterweight regions include features; as well as Components located on the bladder.

2. The ball of claim 1, wherein the bladder includes a recess defining a cavity for receiving the component, and wherein the component includes a valve.

3. The ball of claim 1, wherein the plurality of counterweight regions and components are uniformly spaced around the radially inward surface of the bladder.

4. The ball according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of weight regions comprise a plurality of weight points, wherein the number of the plurality of weight points in each weight region is between 5 and 100.

5. The ball according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of weight regions include a first weight, the first weight being greater than a second weight of the component.

6. The ball of claim 1, wherein the plurality of counterweight regions are arranged in a cluster opposite the component.

7. The ball of claim 1, wherein the plurality of weight regions and the component are arranged along the radially inward surface such that a polyhedral pattern is formed between the respective weight regions of the plurality of weight regions.

8. The ball of claim 1, wherein one or more of the plurality of counterweight regions are disposed on the limiting structure of the ball.

9. The ball of claim 1, wherein one or more of the plurality of counterweight regions are disposed on the outer casing.

10. The ball of claim 4, wherein the plurality of weight points comprise a first material, the bladder comprises a second material, and the outer shell comprises a third material, and wherein the first material is different from each of the second material and the third material.

11. The sports ball according to claim 1, wherein the sports ball comprises a first hemisphere and a second hemisphere, wherein the component is disposed in the first hemisphere, and wherein one or more of the plurality of counterweight regions are disposed in the second hemisphere.

12. A sports ball, comprising: A housing that forms at least a portion of the outer surface of the moving ball; A bladder located within the outer shell, the bladder having a radially outward-facing surface and a radially inward-facing surface, the radially outward-facing surface being oriented away from the center of the moving ball, and the radially inward-facing surface being oriented towards the center of the moving ball; A component located within the bladder, the component having a first weight; as well as Multiple counterweight regions are arranged in clusters along the radially inward surface of the bladder, such that the multiple counterweight regions form a counterweight balance with the component, wherein the multiple counterweight regions have a second weight.

13. The ball of claim 12, wherein the second weight of the plurality of weight regions is greater than the first weight of the component.

14. The ball of claim 12, wherein the plurality of counterweight regions are disposed in a first hemisphere of the ball, and wherein the component is disposed in a second hemisphere of the ball, the first hemisphere forming an upper portion of the ball, and the second hemisphere forming a lower portion of the ball.

15. The sports ball of claim 14, wherein the plurality of counterweight regions are arranged on the bladder in a manner directly opposite to the component.

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