Racket for sports competition

Abstract

An athletic game racket according to the present disclosure includes a head having a head thickness and including a front panel and a rear panel, each of the front panel and the rear panel having a concave striking surface defined by a continuous curvature. A handle is connected to the head. The frame defines a periphery of the sports competition racket. The frame includes a head section extending around the head, a handle section extending along the handle, and a transition section joining the head section and the handle section. The head section and the handle section have a first frame thickness, and the transition section includes ribs having a second frame thickness. The second frame thickness is greater than each of the first frame thickness and the head thickness. The ribs are operable to resist bending and twisting of the head relative to the handle.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application is a non-provisional patent application claiming priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 592,925, filed on October 25, 2023, entitled “Pickleball Paddle with Geometric Features that Improve Acoustics and Performance,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0002] This disclosure relates to rackets for use in sports such as pickleball and paddle tennis, which provide a uniquely designed concave faceplate and an improved structural transition section in the "throat" transition area connecting the head and handle of the racket. Description of related technologies

[0003] Pickleball is a versatile and rapidly growing sport played on a court the size of a badminton court with a 34-inch net. Using plastic balls and rackets made from a variety of different materials, pickleball is suitable for both indoor and outdoor play. The game is beginner-friendly, but can also be highly competitive. Its social and intergenerational appeal has earned it an enthusiastic following. Pickleball can be played in singles or doubles, has simple and easy-to-learn rules, very low dress requirements, and affordable portable equipment. Popular in schools and the adult community, pickleball is governed by the USA Pickleball Association (USAPickleball.org).

[0004] Players of pickleball and other racket sports typically seek racket designs that improve the sound, feel, performance, forgiveness of mishit, and durability, allowing for customization to suit their preferences. Racquets are generally manufactured using a variety of materials, layers, and components, which may include wood, metal, fiberglass, carbon fiber composites, foam, plastics, rubber, and resins. Manufacturing methods may include layering, thermoforming, injection molding, CNC machining, compression molding, grinding, polishing, painting, finishing, assembly, and combinations thereof.

[0005] After being struck with a peak ball racket, the behavior of the peak ball is typically determined by the racket's speed, orientation, and path, as well as the racket's structure, mass, and surface characteristics.

[0006] In recent years, peakball has drawn attention due to noise issues, primarily stemming from the sound produced when the racket strikes the ball. Disputes have arisen between peakball players and residents near peakball courts in many communities. In some neighborhoods, peakball courts have been closed due to noise complaints.

[0007] Furthermore, compared to tennis rackets and balls of similar size, the "hit" (contact between the racket and the peakeer) of a peakeer is often off-center due to skill level, match speed, and the relative size of the racket head. The "center" can be defined by the racket's center of gravity or impact center, or a combination thereof. The racket's center of gravity is the center of its mass distribution, while the racket's impact center is determined by the racket's geometry and vibrational response. Head rotation during an off-center hit is generally related to the racket's center of gravity, mass characteristics, distance from the impact to the racket's center of gravity, and the torsional and deflecting resistance that the athlete can provide at ball-racket contact.

[0008] Figure 1 A typical example of a complete pickle racket 10 is illustrated. The pickle racket 10 typically includes a handle section 20 and a head section 12. The handle 20 typically includes a flared section located at the end 22 of the handle. In this case, the handle molding 22 is attached to the handle 20 section of the racket 10. The head 12 typically includes an inner core 18 and a panel surface 16 on the opposite side of the head 12. The core 18 may be formed of a polymer honeycomb material; however, the core may also be made of other alternative materials. A transition region or throat 14 exists between the substantially parallel side 24 of the head 12 and the handle 20. The transition region or throat 14 may or may not include protective edge guards mounted around the perimeter. The perimeter of the racket is defined by the outer edge of the panel and the sidewalls, and does not include edge guards that may or may not be present on the racket 10. The throat 14 is considered the weakest structural area of ​​a typical pickle racket 10.

[0009] Simmons' U.S. Patent No. 11,597,169 B2 describes a pickle racket and a method for manufacturing the same. As part of the method for manufacturing the racket, Simmons discloses a plastic or composite molding material that is wrapped around a tubular capsule or center and placed in a mold to form the racket frame. In some embodiments, additional composite material is wrapped around specific locations on the frame to adjust the balance point and rebound characteristics of the finished racket. Although Simmons discloses a method for manufacturing a racket with an internal frame, this design and manufacturing method is disadvantageous for several reasons. First, both manufacturing methods require removing the frame or racket from the mold before attaching the front and rear shells. This adds several steps to the manufacturing process and reduces the structural integrity of the unibody racket design.

[0010] Secondly, Simmons discussed adding additional composite materials to specific locations on the frame to adjust the balance point and rebound characteristics of the finished racket.

[0011] Holmes' U.S. Patent No. 5,150,896 describes a match racket 20 having a rigid, curved contact surface 29 with an open grid 26 for air passage instead of a conventional wire mesh, and oval stripes 27 arranged in a cross-sectional pattern. This match racket 20 is a tennis racket, wherein multiple open grids 26 are provided to reduce the weight of the racket 20. However, this Holmes design is disadvantageous for racket design because, compared to the racket of the present invention, the surface contains openings that weaken the structural integrity of the racket, reduce the contact surface area upon impact with the ball, produce inconsistent impact response, and result in a racket with excessive total weight, turbulent airflow / whistle, and an unpleasant impact sound and feel. Furthermore, Holmes' design may not comply with the rules of several racket sports. In fact, according to the U.S. Pickleball Rules, the impact surface is required to be rigid, smooth, and free of holes or openings, notches, or excessively rough textures. Summary of the Invention

[0012] This disclosure provides a sports competition racket that significantly improves upon existing designs. The sports competition racket of this disclosure is characterized by a head having a concave striking surface defined by a continuous curvature and a frame defining the periphery of the sports competition racket; the head and frame cooperate to improve the racket's acoustic and performance characteristics.

[0013] In one respect, the sports racket disclosed herein improves acoustic performance by producing a sound that is less damaging to both the athlete and the local community when the ball is struck.

[0014] On the other hand, the sports racket disclosed herein provides excellent control, energy return, impact feel, and eccentricity, while allowing athletes to impart desired speed, direction, spin rate, and axis of rotation to different types of shots. In this respect, the sports racket disclosed herein helps to minimize the inaccuracies associated with eccentric impact between the racket and the ball and / or improve the ball's trajectory when the ball is mishit.

[0015] In another aspect of the sports racket disclosed herein, the racket's structure is reinforced, particularly at the transition between the racket head and the handle.

[0016] Additional features and benefits of this disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows and will become apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practice of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0017] These and / or other features and benefits of this disclosure will become apparent and more readily understood from the following description of embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0018] Figure 1 The illustration shows a standard pickball racket according to existing technology;

[0019] Figure 2A The illustration shows a perspective view of a sports racket according to this disclosure;

[0020] Figure 2B The illustration shows the following according to the present disclosure. Figure 2A A front view of a sports competition racket;

[0021] Figure 2C The illustration shows the following according to the present disclosure. Figure 2A A side view of a sports competition racket;

[0022] Figure 2D The illustration shows a perspective view of the internal frame of a sports racket according to this disclosure;

[0023] Figure 2E The illustration shows a top view of a sports racket according to this disclosure;

[0024] Figure 2F The illustration shows a cross-sectional view of a sports competition racket from top to bottom (AA) and from one side to the other (BB) according to this disclosure;

[0025] Figure 3A The illustration shows the following according to the present disclosure. Figure 2A A 3D diagram of the internal frame of a sports competition racket;

[0026] Figure 3B The illustration shows the following according to the present disclosure. Figure 2A A 3D diagram of the internal foam gasket of a sports competition racket;

[0027] Figure 3C illustrates the following according to the present disclosure. Figure 2A A front view of an exemplary concave inner core of a sports competition racket;

[0028] Figure 3D The figure shows a side view of the concave inner core of a sports racket according to Figure C of this disclosure;

[0029] Figure 3E The illustration shows the following according to the present disclosure. Figure 2A A 3D diagram of the composite shell of a sports competition racket;

[0030] Figure 4 A perspective view of a sports competition racket according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0031] Figure 5A The illustration shows a front view of a sports competition racket according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 5B The illustration shows the following according to the present disclosure. Figure 5A A side-view cross-sectional view of a sports competition racket;

[0033] Figure 5C The illustration shows the following according to the present disclosure. Figure 5A A top-view cross-sectional view of a sports competition racket;

[0034] Figure 6A A sports competition racket depicting contact with the ball using existing technology;

[0035] Figure 6B A sports racket depicting contact with a ball, according to this disclosure;

[0036] Figure 6C Depicting from Figure 6A Sports competition rackets and Figure 6B In sports competitions, a ball is hit by a racket and travels towards the net of a peak ball;

[0037] Figure 7 A graphical representation depicting the acoustic response caused by a ball contacting the sports racket disclosed herein;

[0038] Figure 8A The illustration shows a perspective view of a sports competition racket with a concave inner core but without a peripheral frame, according to the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 8B Based on this disclosure Figure 8A A side view of a sports competition racket;

[0040] Figure 8C The illustration shows the following according to the present disclosure. Figure 8A A top view of a sports competition racket; and

[0041] Figure 8D The illustration shows a cross-sectional view of a sports competition racket from top to bottom (AA) and from one side to the other (BB) according to the present disclosure.

[0042] The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of this disclosure and should not be construed as limiting its scope, as the entire disclosure may allow for other equally effective embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals always refer to the same elements. The embodiments are described below to explain this disclosure while referring to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in describing this disclosure, detailed descriptions of related well-known functions or configurations that may reduce the clarity of the essential points of this disclosure have been omitted.

[0044] It will be understood that although the terms “first” and “second” are used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. Thus, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element without departing from the teachings of this disclosure.

[0045] When placed before a list of elements, expressions such as "at least one of..." modify the entire list of elements rather than individual elements in the list.

[0046] All terms used herein, including descriptive or technical terms, should be interpreted as having meanings obvious to those skilled in the art. However, these terms may have different meanings depending on the intent of the lexicographer, precedent, or the emergence of new technologies. Furthermore, some terms may be arbitrarily chosen by the inventor, and in such cases, the meaning of the chosen term will be described in detail in the specific embodiments herein. Therefore, the terms used herein should be defined based on their generally defined meanings in conjunction with the description throughout this specification.

[0047] In the following, one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure relate to a sports racket that can be used in pickleball (or paddle tennis). The racket has a concave striking surface defined by a continuous curvature and a frame defining the periphery of the sports racket. The concave striking surface and the frame cooperate to improve the racket's acoustic and performance characteristics. For example, the racket includes a uniquely designed concave facet and an improved structural section in the "throat" or transition region connecting the head and handle of the racket. More specifically, the sports racket of this disclosure provides a striking surface that compensates for or corrects for the rotation experienced during an eccentric impact with the ball and includes a specially designed structural transition section between the head and handle of the sports racket to provide reinforcement between the head and handle.

[0049] According to one example of this disclosure, a sports competition racket can be used for playing pickle and is designed to conform to the rules of American pickle because the racket is rigid, incompressible, and smooth. The impact surface of the sports competition racket does not contain holes or openings, notches, or excessively rough textures. As described in detail below, the designs of this disclosure are also applicable to paddle tennis rackets and table tennis rackets.

[0050] Figure 2A A perspective view of a sports racket 100, shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, is illustrated. Figure 2B The diagram illustrates the following: Figure 2A A front view of a pickle racket in an example implementation. (Refer to...) Figure 2A and Figure 2B According to this exemplary embodiment, a sports racket 100 may include a head 102, a handle 104, and a transition or throat 106. The head 102 includes a concave outer impact panel 108 on both its front surface 108a and rear surface 108b. The term "concave" should be understood to describe a surface that curves inward and / or forms an arch or bowl shape. It should be noted that the impact panels 108 on both the front surface 108a and rear surface 108b define the outer boundary or head thickness of the head 102 of the sports racket 100, and according to this exemplary embodiment, the impact panels 108 on both the front surface 108a and rear surface 108b are preferably identical in design. However, it should be noted that the impact panels 108 on the front and rear surfaces of the head 102 are not limited to being identical in design and may alternatively include a concave design on one of the front and rear surfaces and a flat surface design (or another shape) on the other. For simplicity and to provide brevity for the detailed description herein, both the front and rear faces of the head 102 will be considered to include the external impact panel 108 with a concave surface.

[0051] As illustrated by the circle and crosshairs depicting the center or geometric center of the panel 108 of the head 102, the front panel 108 may include a concave design such that the panel 108 slopes inward from the top to the middle of the head 102 and from the bottom to the middle of the head 102, or in other words, the directional vector has an increasing inward angle from the center to the periphery (see reference numeral 108a), and the panel 108 slopes inward from both the left and right sides of the head 102 to the middle of the head 102 (see reference numeral 108c). With this concave configuration, the head thickness of the head 102 becomes increasingly thinner as the head 102 transitions from its outer periphery towards its middle segment (from front to back). In this example embodiment, the head 102 of the racket 100 has equally sloped panels 108, wherein the geometric center of the head 102 is the thinnest. Although Figures 2A to 2B The illustration shows a case where the curvature of panel 108 slopes equally from its outer periphery to its center. However, it should be noted that in alternative exemplary embodiments, the center of curvature of panel 108 may be moved upward or downward along a longitudinal axis extending through handle 104, or it may be moved along a lateral axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. That is, the center of curvature of panel 108 may be moved to the left or right of the longitudinal axis to suit each user's preference, or the concave radius may vary from the center to the periphery in the lateral or longitudinal direction, which may include a large radius that is nearly flat or almost flat in a local area. In exemplary embodiments, the radius of curvature in both the longitudinal and lateral directions may be between 500 mm and 10,000 mm, and more preferably between 1,000 mm and 5,000 mm. In another exemplary embodiment, the concave radius is not constant in the longitudinal or lateral direction. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the center of curvature may be longitudinally displaced upward or downward relative to the geometric center of impact panel 108. Providing a concave panel 108 can be achieved by making the inner core (see Figures 3C to 3D) Figure 3D (Described in more detail) The concave core is formed to have its offset or variable concavity. In an example embodiment of this disclosure, the concave core may be formed of a polymer honeycomb or other lightweight structure core, wherein the walls are thin and the entire inner core is lightweight. In another example embodiment, the panel 108 may have a constant or variable thickness ranging from 0.2 mm to 3.0 mm.

[0052] Figure 2C The diagram illustrates the following: Figure 2A The following is a side view of a sports competition racket 100 according to an example embodiment. Using this side view, the concavity of the panel 108 from the top and bottom of the head 102 to the center of the head 102 can be easily observed. When viewing the racket from top to bottom, it should be understood that the panel 108 has the same or similar concavity (not shown for the sake of simplicity in this application and the accompanying drawings).

[0053] Utilize Figure 1 The conventional pickle racket 10 illustrated herein, in contact with a flat panel 16 that is eccentrically positioned relative to the racket's center of gravity projection, will cause the racket to rotate horizontally to one side, longitudinally to one side, or a combination of both to one side, thereby causing the pickle to leave the panel 16 at an angle different from the intended target direction. However, using a method such as Figures 2A to 2CThe concave panel 108 of this exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in the figure, causes the normal vector direction of the panel 108 to gradually change from the center to the outer periphery along each point of the panel 108, thereby providing correction for eccentric impacts on the pickle. Utilizing the unique design configuration of the concave panel 108 for a sports competition racket 100, users can experience better control over the direction of the shot (launch angle and azimuth), better impact energy feedback, a more stable impact feel, and better control over the ball speed, spin rate, and axis of rotation for different types of shots. It should be noted that, as in... Figures 2A to 2C The present disclosure, which provides a pickball racket with a concave faceplate as illustrated in the figure, is also applicable to paddle tennis rackets, and therefore paddle tennis rackets with the inventive design as described herein are included as part of this disclosure.

[0054] The following will refer to Figure 3C to... Figure 3D Describes the details of the formation of the concave-shaped panel 108.

[0055] Figure 2D The illustration shows a perspective view of a frame 120 extending around the periphery (not separately labeled) of a sports match racket 100, which is uniquely formed, for example, using a composite material compression molding or similar process according to another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure to form the racket. The frame 120 includes a head segment 120a extending around a head 102, a handle segment 120b extending along a handle 104, and a transition segment 120c connecting the head segment 120a and the handle segment 120b. According to… Figure 2D In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in the figure, frame 120 may have a first frame thickness in the head section 120a and the handle section 120b, and a second frame thickness along a portion of the transition section 120c, as will be described in more detail herein. In a non-limiting embodiment, the first frame thickness may define the head section 120a, while the handle section 120b has a third frame thickness. In this design, the second frame thickness is greater than both the first and third frame thicknesses. Furthermore, each of the first, second, and third frame thicknesses (if provided) may be variable along the respective frame sections 120a, 120b, and 120c.

[0056] In competitive tennis rackets typically experience two low-frequency vibration modes. One low-frequency vibration mode is due to the handle 20 bending upwards / downwards in one mode, and the second low-frequency vibration mode is due to the handle 20 bending approximately relative to the head 12 in a second mode. This weakened area causes vibrations, audible sounds, and can reduce racket durability, sound and feel perception, and energy transfer upon impact. To enhance structural stability, the second frame thickness is defined by thicker / protruding ribs 109 extending along the periphery of the transition / throat section 120c of the frame 120, which extends between the head 102 and the handle 104. These thicker / protruding ribs 109 are preferably arranged along the frame 120 in a "wedge-shaped design" 110 (i.e., extending from the upper end of the handle 104 toward two opposite sides of the head 102). The wedge-shaped ribs 110 provide Y-shaped structural reinforcement to high-stress areas on the two sides of the racket (transition / throat section) during use.

[0057] The forked rib 110 can be formed by providing an increased cross-sectional height geometry (relative to the impact face and peripheral protrusions) along the length of the transition segment 120c (also known as the throat segment) of the frame 120 and the mold forming the outer surface of the racket. More specifically, the transition segment 120c of the frame 120 extends between the lower region of the head segment 120a of the frame 120 and the upper end of the handle segment 120b of the frame 120. The segments of the frame 120 extending into the handle 104 can also be configured to form the full profile of the handle with or without the additional foam 130 or handle molding 104a or (flared) handle end molding 104b. The segments of the frame 120 may vary in height, width, and cross-section from the handle to the periphery of the racket as defined in each design. The surface profile of the main outer mold defines the final profile of the frame as the frame is formed to support the outer profile of the plate periphery, throat, and handle of the racket.

[0058] Preferably, the forked bone structure design 110 can be provided on both the front and rear sides of the racket frame 120. As described herein and Figure 2D The protruding forked design 110 shown in the figure is configured to increase the cross-sectional height of the transition section 120c (locally focused on the transition section 120c) and increase the stiffness of the periphery of the sports racket passing through the transition section 120c. Furthermore, by utilizing this one-piece internal frame 120 (a single piece) with variable cross-sectional dimensions as provided in this exemplary embodiment, the transition section 120c of the sports racket 100, the overall structural integrity of the sports racket 100, energy transfer, and the perceived impact sound of the sports racket 100 can be improved compared to a conventional pickle racket.

[0059] Through finite element analysis, including modal analysis and physical acoustic testing, vibrational modes with progressively higher frequencies were measured and observed on a standard picket racket, in addition to simple translational, rotational, and handle vibrational modes. Many of these vibrational modes are audible and contribute to the racket's signature sound, and particularly the sound of the picket striking the ball. The inventors have also determined, using acoustic and modal analysis, that the racket experiences audible torsional vibrational modes in addition to the more traditional impact modes upon contact with the picket ball, which may negatively impact the racket's feel and acoustics. Therefore, Figure 2D The internal frame 120 shown in the figure has been designed for use with the sports competition racket 100 (see Figure 120). Figures 2A to 2C Additional peripheral support (enhanced cross-sectional area) is provided between the handle 104 and the head 102. The internal frame 120 of this unique structure is preferably made of composite material, carbon fiber or glass fiber material, or can be made of polymer material by additive manufacturing.

[0060] Figure 2E The illustration shows a top view of a sports racket 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. (Refer to...) Figure 2E It can be clearly seen how the forked bone design 110 of the sports racket 100 protrudes / thickens at the transition section of the frame 120 compared to the head section 120a of the frame 120. The forked bone design 110 is formed in both the left and right regions of the transition section 106 of the sports racket 100 to have an increased cross-sectional area throughout the transition section 106.

[0061] Figure 2F It shows Figures 2A to 2F The sports racket 100 described herein is shown in cross-sectional views from top to bottom (AA) and from side to side (BB) through an approximate center line of the racket. From these views, it is evident that both the face and the core are concave, wherein the thickness of the sports racket 100 is thinner at the center than at the top, bottom, left, or right of the periphery of the head 102 of the sports racket 100.

[0062] See below for reference. Figures 3A to 3EIn a more detailed description of this manufacturing process, the inner frame 120 is preferably provided in the form of a partially cured "prepreg" encased around an uninflated polymer bladder, allowing the (flexible) inner frame 120 to be easily handled when used to form the entire sports racket 100. In other words, the inner frame 120 can be easily manipulated after being placed in a mold for proper positioning with other sports racket components, which are simultaneously inflated, compressed, and molded together to form the final sports racket 100. The "prepreg" is a composite material made of pre-impregnated fibers and a partially cured polymer matrix such as epoxy or phenolic resin, or even a thermoplastic mixed with liquid rubber or resin.

[0063] The following reference Figures 3A to 3E The process of manufacturing a sports racket 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure is described. The final sports racket 100 manufactured by the process described below is similar to... Figures 2A to 2F The sports racket 100 illustrated herein is identical. This process can be performed as a single-step molding process. However, the process of manufacturing the sports racket 100 is not limited to using a single-step molding process and can alternatively be performed in two or more molding or manufacturing steps.

[0064] Reference Figures 3A to 3B A preferred manufacturing process for a pickle racket according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure utilizes a molding process that simultaneously fuses several individual components together in a single compression molding step. This single compression molding process can utilize a bladder compression molding process, a composite material manufacturing technique involving wrapping sheets of a "prepreg" composite material within an uninflated polymer disposable bladder (not shown). These impregnated fiber sheets can be wrapped around an inflatable disposable bladder placed inside a mold cavity and subsequently inflated during the molding process. The bladder compression molding process uses positive pressure applied to the bladder disposed within a prepreg tubular carbon fiber frame 120 to force the bladder and the prepreg tubular frame 120 against the inner surface of the mold cavity and against other carbon fiber, foam, or polymer components, as described in more detail below.

[0065] The carbon fiber prepreg tubular frame 120 preferably first wraps around an uninflated (disposable or reusable) inflatable bladder and is configured to include a raised cross-sectional area forming a forked design 110 during the molding process before inflation, as referenced above. Figure 2DAs described. In forming the entire sports racket 100, firstly, a sheet material (preferably made of carbon fiber) for the rear side (not shown) of the head 102 is placed in a mold cavity. Then, a prepreg tubular frame 120 is wrapped around the uninflated bladder to form an inflatable carbon fiber frame 120, which is placed in a mold cavity above the rear composite shell or panel material. An expandable foam material 130 (described below) formed as the inner contour shape of the frame 120 and the outer contour of the core 140 can be placed between the carbon fiber frame 120 and the core 140. The foam material 130 is configured to maintain the desired final shape of the frame 120 and to securely receive the inner core 140 within the foam material 130, as shown below with reference to Figures 3C to 3D. Figure 3D As described, the foam material 130 may include a head section 130a and a handle section 130b. The foam material 130 may expand to support the inner surface of the outer concave panel.

[0066] Refer to Figure 3C to Figure 3D The core 140 is manufactured with concave shapes on its two opposite surfaces and is positioned above the rear side sheet or panel material and within the head region 130a of the foam material 130 (also within the head region of the mold cavity). The core 140 is preferably formed of a polymer honeycomb material or other lightweight structural core, thereby providing a thin-walled, lightweight internal body for the head. The front side sheet (not shown) or panel material (preferably made of carbon fiber or composite material) of the head 102 for the sports racket 100 can then be positioned above the core 140 and outside the head region 130a of the foam material 130 and the periphery of the frame 120 (also within the head region of the mold cavity). A handle wrapping material can wrap around the handle segment 120b of the frame 120, which is formed of carbon fiber prepreg material. The rear side sheet or panel material, the front side sheet or panel material, and the handle wrapping material can be gathered around the respective outer periphery regions of the frame 120, which is formed of carbon fiber prepreg material, to provide a smooth outer periphery for the sports racket 100.

[0067] The mold cavity can then be placed in a high-heat chamber (not shown for the sake of simplicity), while air is used to inflate the inflatable carbon fiber frame 120 to enhance the desired final shape of the finished frame of the sports racket 100. After properly arranging and properly gathering all the components within the mold cavity, heating them under compression pressure for a predetermined period of time, and simultaneously inflating the carbon fiber frame 120, the final sports racket 100 is completely manufactured in a single step to form a one-piece composite shell for the sports racket 100.

[0068] Although the frame 120, the rear panel or panel material, the front panel or panel material, and the outer handle wrapping material are described as being formed of carbon fiber material, each of these components may alternatively be formed of other materials, including foam, plastic, polymer, natural materials, metal, adhesive, fabric, or other combinations, without departing from the spirit and scope of the entire disclosure.

[0069] According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the carbon fiber (or prepreg) material of the frame 120, the back panel sheet material, the front panel sheet material, and the handle wrapping material are each only partially cured as "prepreg" before being placed into the mold cavity, in order to allow for flexibility and ease of handling. This allows the components to be manipulated within the mold and wrapped around the outer periphery of the frame 120, thereby achieving the desired placement of each component before applying heat and pressure to form a one-piece pickle in a single-step or multi-step molding process.

[0070] Figure 3E The illustration shows the geometry of the composite shell of a fully manufactured sports racket 100 after it has been pressurized, heated, and removed from the mold cavity. At this point, a handle molded part 104a can be applied to the handle 104, and a flared handle cap 104b (see [reference]). Figure 2A This can be applied to the end of the frame handle 104a. Alternatively, the handle profile can be formed during the molding process by expanding the handle portion of the frame 102b to produce the desired handle profile.

[0071] Figure 4 A sports racket 200 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. In this exemplary embodiment, the entire sports racket 200 can be compared with a reference, except for the use of a concave core. Figures 3A to 3D The manufacturing process is exactly the same or similar as described. In this example embodiment, the core is not concave, but instead may have a flat outer surface, as is typically used in conventional rackets. Figure 4 As shown in the diagram, a forked bone-like design 210 is provided at the transition section 206 of the head 202, along with a flat panel 208. The handle section 204 and the transition section 206 are configured to match the reference... Figures 2A to 2D The described sports competition racket is the same as 100.

[0072] Figure 5AThe illustration shows a front view of a tennis racket 500 in the form of a paddle tennis racket according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The paddle tennis racket 500 includes a conventionally shaped head section 502, a conventionally shaped handle section 504, and a conventionally shaped transition section 506 extending between the lower region of the head section 502 and the upper end of the handle section 504. The front panel 508 may include a concave design such that the panel 508 slopes inward from the top of the head section 502 to the middle of the head section 502 and from the bottom of the head section 502 to the middle of the head section 502 (see reference numeral 508a), and the panel 508 slopes inward from both the left and right sides of the head section 502 to the middle of the head section 502 (see reference numeral 508b). Utilizing this concave shape configuration, the thickness of the head section 502 becomes increasingly thinner as the head section 502 transitions from its outer periphery toward its middle section (from front to back). In this example embodiment, the head segment 502 of the racket 500 has equally inclined faceplates 508, wherein the absolute center of the head segment 502 is the thinnest. Although Figure 5A The illustration shows a panel 508 with its curvature sloping evenly from its outer periphery to its center. However, it should be noted that in alternative example embodiments, the center of curvature of panel 508 can be moved longitudinally upward or downward, or horizontally to the left or right, to suit each user's preference. This can be achieved by forming the internal polymer honeycomb core with its offset concavity. Furthermore, the concave panel and supporting concave core can also have variable horizontal or longitudinal radii from the center to the periphery of the racket. Variable radii can include substantially flat local areas.

[0073] Figure 5B The diagram illustrates the following: Figure 5A A side cross-sectional view of a plate tennis racket 500 according to an example embodiment. As illustrated and referenced by cross-sectional view AA, both the front panel and the rear panel 508 are recessed inward from their top and bottom peripheries toward their center.

[0074] Figure 5C The diagram illustrates the following: Figure 5A A top cross-sectional view of a plate tennis racket according to an example embodiment. As illustrated and referenced by cross-sectional view BB, both the front panel and the rear panel 108 are recessed inward from their left and right peripheries toward their center.

[0075] As discussed in this article, the shape of panel 108 will gradually change the direction of the normal vector of the striking ball. For example, as in Figure 6A As shown, a ball struck approximately 40 mm below the center of a standard racket can have a launch angle of about -3.4°. Conversely, as in... Figure 6BAs shown, a ball struck approximately 40 mm below the center of the sports racket 100 according to this disclosure can have a launch angle of approximately -2.0°. This 1.4° reduction in launch angle can be achieved as follows: Figure 6C The difference between hitting the net and successfully clearing it is shown. Additionally, the addition of the forked ribs 110, which cooperate with other racket features, gives the sport racket 110 stiffness, which produces a selected audible sound upon receiving a moderate impact from the ball. The term "moderate impact" should be understood as describing an impact produced when the ball travels at a speed between 10 MPH (16.9 KPH) and approximately 15 MPH (24.14 KPH). Figure 7 The statement indicates that, in response to Figure 2A The selected audible sounds from multiple impacts of a typical pickle and a sports racket as described in this disclosure can be represented by an audible signal with a maximum amplitude, an audible frequency of approximately 1,499 Hz, an average power level of approximately 78.0 dBa, and a peak power level of approximately 92.6 dBa, perceived within approximately 2 feet (0.609 meters) of the impact. These frequency and sound measurements may vary for each sports racket, impact location, and impact conditions of this disclosure. Figure 2A The main frequency of the racket depicted in the text is usually higher than that of a regular sports racket.

[0076] In addition to the sports competition rackets discussed earlier, we also envisioned, for example, in... Figure 8A , Figure 8B , Figure 8C and Figure 8D The frameless sports racket 100 is shown in the figure. The frameless sports racket 100 is illustrated in perspective view as a sports racket including a head 102 and a handle 104. The head 102 includes concave outer impact panels 108 on both its front surface 108a and its rear surface 108b. It should be noted that the impact panels 108 on both the front surface 108a and the rear surface 108b define the outer boundary or head thickness of the head 102 of the frameless sports racket 100. According to this exemplary embodiment, the impact panels 108 on both the front surface 108a and the rear surface 108b are preferably identical in design. In this non-limiting example, the frameless sports racket 100 includes all the benefits of the concave surface without the additional weight of a frame.

[0077] The sports racket design according to this disclosure features a unique concave faceplate configuration, which allows users to experience better control over the pickle's direction (launch angle and azimuth), better impact energy feedback, a more stable impact feel, and better control over ball speed, spin rate, and axis of rotation for different types of shots. Furthermore, the sports racket design according to this disclosure produces a higher frequency sound (indicating higher dominant modal stiffness) than that produced by conventional rackets. This higher frequency sound results in a lower amplitude sound with rapid decay, which is perceived more as a "click" than the "thump" sound produced by conventional rackets.

[0078] The terms “a” and “an” do not indicate a limitation of quantity, but rather the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the term “or” means “and / or”. Throughout the specification, a reference to “an aspect” means that a particular element described in connection with that aspect (e.g., a feature, structure, step, or characteristic) is included in at least one aspect described herein and may or may not be present in the other aspects. Furthermore, it should be understood that the described elements may be combined in any suitable manner in the aspects.

[0079] The term "about" is intended to include the degree of error associated with a measurement of a particular quantity based on equipment available at the time of application. For example, "about" may include a given value The range.

[0080] Although some embodiments of this disclosure have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that changes can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of this disclosure, the scope of which is defined in the appended claims and their equivalents. Claims (as amended under Article 19 of the Treaty) 1. A sports competition racket, comprising: A head having a head thickness and including a front panel and a rear panel, each of the front panel and the rear panel having a concave striking surface defined by a continuous curvature; Handle, the handle being connected to the head; and A frame defining the periphery of the sports racket, the frame including a head section extending around the head, a handle section extending along the handle, and a transition section connecting the head section and the handle section, the head section and the handle section having a first frame thickness, and the transition section including a rib having a second frame thickness greater than each of the first frame thickness and the head thickness, wherein the rib is operable to resist bending and twisting of the head relative to the handle. 2. A sports competition racket, comprising: A head having a head thickness and including a front panel and a rear panel, each of the front panel and the rear panel having a concave striking surface including a continuous curvature, the head including a longitudinal axis and a lateral axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and a structural core disposed between the front panel and the rear panel, the structural core having a core thickness that decreases in size from the outer periphery of the head toward the geometric center of the head along at least one of the longitudinal axis and the lateral axis. 3. The sports competition racket according to claim 2, wherein the core thickness includes either a constant radius or an asymptotic parabolic radius. 4. The sports competition racket according to claim 2, wherein the head thickness at the periphery of the head is greater than the head thickness at the geometric center. 5. The sports competition racket according to claim 1, wherein the sports competition racket is a peak racket. 6. The sports racket of claim 1, wherein the front panel and the rear panel together partially define a one-piece composite shell formed of carbon composite material. 7. The sports racket according to any one of claims 2 to 4, 6, 15 and 16, further comprising: Handle, the handle being connected to the head; and A frame defining the periphery of the sports racket, the frame including a head section extending around the head, a handle section extending along the handle, and a transition section connecting the head section and the handle section, the head section and the handle section having a first frame thickness, and the transition section including a rib having a second frame thickness, wherein the rib is operable to resist bending and twisting of the head relative to the handle. 8. The sports racket of claim 7, wherein the transition section includes a first rib and a second rib on the front side of the frame and a third rib and a fourth rib on the rear side of the frame, the first rib, the second rib, the third rib and the fourth rib being operable together to provide reinforced support against bending and twisting of the head section relative to the handle section. 9. The sports competition racket according to claim 8, wherein the first rib and the second rib form a forked bone design. 10. The sports racket of claim 9, wherein the forked design contributes to the rigidity of the sports racket, such that when the sports racket is subjected to moderate impact from a ball, the sports racket produces a selected audible sound. 11. The sports racket of claim 10, wherein the selected audible sound includes at least one of the following: A frequency of approximately 1,499 Hz; An average power level of approximately 78.0 dBa was perceived within approximately 2 feet (0.609 meters) of the moderate impact; and The peak power level of approximately 92.6 dBa was perceived within approximately 2 feet (0.609 meters) of the moderate impact. 12. The sports racket according to claim 2 or 7, wherein the racket is a paddle tennis racket. 13. The sports competition racket according to claim 2 or 7, wherein the sports competition racket is a peak racket. 14. The sports racket according to claim 2 or 7, wherein the front panel and the rear panel together partially define an integral composite housing. 15. The sports racket of claim 2, wherein the continuous curvature of the concave striking surface of each of the front panel and the rear panel includes a center of curvature offset relative to the geometric center of the head. 16. The sports racket of claim 2, wherein the continuous curvature of the concave striking surface of each of the front panel and the rear panel includes a center of curvature offset relative to the geometric center of the head along at least one of the longitudinal axis and the lateral axis. 17. The sports racket of claim 2, wherein the continuous curvature of the concave striking surface of each of the front panel and the rear panel includes a center of curvature offset relative to the geometric center of the head along both the longitudinal axis and the lateral axis. 18. The sports racket according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the continuous curvature of the concave striking surface of each of the front panel and the rear panel includes a constant radius. 19. The sports racket according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the continuous curvature of the concave striking surface of each of the front panel and the rear panel includes a variable radius. 20. The sports racket of claim 19, wherein the continuous curvature of the concave striking surface of each of the front panel and the rear panel varies along one of the longitudinal axis and the lateral axis.

Claims

1. A sports competition racket, comprising: A head having a head thickness and including a front panel and a rear panel, each of the front panel and the rear panel having a concave striking surface defined by a continuous curvature; Handle, the handle being connected to the head; and A frame defining the periphery of the sports racket, the frame including a head section extending around the head, a handle section extending along the handle, and a transition section connecting the head section and the handle section, the head section and the handle section having a first frame thickness, and the transition section including a rib having a second frame thickness greater than each of the first frame thickness and the head thickness, wherein the rib is operable to resist bending and twisting of the head relative to the handle.

2. A sports competition racket, comprising: A head having a head thickness and including a front panel and a rear panel, each of the front panel and the rear panel having a concave striking surface including a continuous curvature, the head including a longitudinal axis and a lateral axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.

3. The sports competition racket according to claim 2, further comprising a structural core disposed between the front panel and the rear panel, the structural core having a core thickness decreasing in size from the outer periphery of the head toward the center of the head along at least one of the longitudinal axis and the lateral axis.

4. The sports competition racket according to claim 2, further comprising a structural core disposed between the front panel and the rear panel, the structural core having a core thickness decreasing in size from the outer periphery of the head toward the center of the head, the core thickness having one of a constant radius and an asymptotic parabolic radius.

5. The sports competition racket according to claim 2, wherein, The head includes a geometric center, and the continuous curvature includes a curvature center offset relative to the geometric center of the head.

6. The sports competition racket according to claim 2, wherein, The center of curvature is offset relative to the geometric center of the head along the longitudinal axis.

7. The sports competition racket according to claim 2, wherein, The head segment includes a geometric center, and the head thickness at the periphery of the head is greater than the head thickness at the geometric center.

8. The sports competition racket according to claim 2, wherein, The continuous curvature includes a variable concave radius on at least one of the longitudinal axis and the lateral axis.

9. The sports competition racket according to claim 1, wherein, The sports competition racket is limited to Peak racket.

10. The sports competition racket according to claim 1, wherein, The front panel and the rear panel together partially define a one-piece composite shell formed of carbon composite material.

11. A sports competition racket, comprising: A head, the head having a head thickness and including a front panel and a rear panel; A handle, which is connected to the head; as well as A frame defining the periphery of the sports racket, the frame including a head section extending around the head, a handle section extending along the handle, and a transition section connecting the head section and the handle section, the head section and the handle section having a first frame thickness, and the transition section including a rib having a second frame thickness, wherein the rib is operable to resist bending and twisting of the head relative to the handle.

12. The sports competition racket according to claim 11, wherein, The sports racket includes a front section and a rear section opposite to the front section. The transition section includes a first rib and a second rib on the front section and a third rib and a fourth rib on the rear section. The first rib, the second rib, the third rib, and the fourth rib can work together to provide reinforced support to resist bending and twisting of the head section relative to the handle section.

13. The sports competition racket according to claim 12, wherein, The first rib and the second rib form a forked bone design.

14. The sports competition racket according to claim 13, wherein, The forked bone design establishes the rigidity of the frame, which produces a selected audio output when subjected to a moderate impact from a ball.

15. The sports competition racket according to claim 14, wherein, The selected audio output has a frequency of approximately 1,499 Hz.

16. The sports competition racket according to claim 14, wherein, The selected audio output has an average power level of approximately 78.0 dBa and a peak power level of approximately 92.6 dBa, perceived within approximately 2 feet (0.609 meters) of the moderate impact.

17. The sports competition racket according to claim 14, wherein, The moderate impact is generated by a ball traveling at a speed between 10 MPH (16.9 KPH) and about 15 MPH (24.14 KPH) contacting one of the front panel and the rear panel.

18. The sports racket according to claim 11, wherein, The racket is constructed as a paddle tennis racket.

19. The sports competition racket according to claim 11, wherein, The racket is constructed as a peak racket.

20. The sports competition racket according to claim 11, wherein, The front panel and the rear panel together partially define an integral composite housing.

Images