Sports ball with component holder

Abstract

The present invention relates to a sports ball comprising a hollow shell (8) which includes an inner surface (9); and a component holder (1) which projects from the inner surface (9) of the hollow shell (8), wherein the component holder (1) comprises at least one rib-shaped support element (3, 4).

Description

1. Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a sports ball, in particular a soccer ball, American football, basketball, or game ball. The sports ball comprises a component holder for holding a component in relation to the sports ball. The component can be an electronic device for providing information regarding various parameters of the sporting activity. The component holder is improved in such a way that the stability of the ball's rotation and the stability of the ball's trajectory are increased, and the abrasion of the sports ball enclosing the component holder is reduced. 2. Background

[0002] Sports balls, such as soccer balls, American football balls, basketballs or children's play balls of different designs, as well as various methods for their manufacture, are known from the prior art.

[0003] Such sports balls, used in athletic activities, typically consist of a hollow shell that may contain an bladder. The hollow shell may be empty or may contain one or more components, such as one or more electronic devices, housed in casings, covers, or the like. These electronic devices are useful for providing information regarding various parameters of the athletic activity. For example, the position of the sports ball could be its position at any given time or at various customizable specific times during a game, athletic activity, or similar event. Furthermore, the information may include parameters of the sports ball and / or the performance of individual players, athletes, or the like.Furthermore, the information can include the determination of specific events, such as determining when a player touched the ball.

[0004] Such information is particularly useful not only for the players, but especially for people who observe the game, sporting activity or the like, referees and other persons who monitor the game for compliance with the rules, or coaches for performance and medical monitoring.

[0005] Integrating electronic devices into such sports balls to provide the aforementioned information accurately and consistently is a challenging task. This is not only generally difficult to achieve but also increases the cost of manufacturing the sports ball. This is especially true for balls with inflatable bladders. Therefore, there is a need for innovative solutions to overcome these challenges.

[0006] Known solutions are mentioned, for example, in the following documents: US 2022 / 0296968 A1 relates to a ball comprising a bladder, a component holder attached to the inner surface of the bladder, and a component attached to the component holder on a distal section of a sleeve.

[0007] WO 2014 / 151405 A2 concerns a ball comprising a bladder and a pocket formed as a section of the bladder extending around an electronic device.

[0008] Although prior art experiments have already provided solutions and improvements over the known state of the art in some aspects, there is still room for improvement. For example, the presence of components such as electronic devices near the ball's bladder, as well as means for attaching these components to the bladder, increases the risk of reduced stability of the ball's rotation during flight and less predictable flight behavior. Furthermore, the presence of the component holder leads to a more uneven load distribution on the ball's shell, which poses a potential risk of increased abrasion and a reduced service life.

[0009] Typically, the shell or bladder of a sports ball containing an electronic device is weighted to counterbalance the weight of the electronic device and its holder. Such a counterweight might be a valve positioned opposite the electronic device, which usually needs to have additional weight to balance the weight of the electronic device and holder. This measure can improve the balance of such balls. Although this results in a more stable rotation in specific directions with respect to individual axes of rotation, the rotational inertia between these directions still varies significantly.Therefore, the risk of exhibiting lower stability of the ball's rotation during flight and / or rolling, and less predictable flight and / or rolling behavior, is still increased, as such balls exhibit different rotational characteristics when rotating around different axes, as explained.

[0010] Against this background, there is a need to further improve the stability of the spin and the flight characteristics of the ball, which incorporates one or more electronic devices. Furthermore, the ball's durability should be improved and its lifespan extended. A general objective is for the sports ball to be more cost-effective over its entire life cycle. 3. Summary of the invention

[0011] The aforementioned problems are at least partially solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0012] The tasks are solved by a sports ball, wherein the sports ball comprises a hollow shell that includes an inner surface; and a component holder projecting from the inner surface of the hollow shell, the component holder comprising at least one rib-shaped support element. The ball can, in particular, be a soccer ball.

[0013] In this way, the sports ball offers increased rotational stability, improved flight and / or roll characteristics, and enhanced durability. This is because the at least one rib-shaped support element provides sufficient support for a component, such as an electronic device, as well as increased vibration protection, while simultaneously allowing for a reduction in the material used for the component holder, thus reducing its weight. This results in a more uniform moment of inertia, leading to more stable and predictable flight and / or roll characteristics, increased rotational stability, and smoother spin behavior. This is particularly true because less weight is also required for the counterweight, such as a valve, to balance the weight of the component and the component holder.This reduces the difference in rotational inertia between different directions of rotation during flight and / or roll. Therefore, ball control for the player is improved, and the flight and / or roll behavior, which is more stable and predictable, provides enhanced ball handling, for which the precision of the ball's trajectory is crucial. Furthermore, reducing the weight of the component holder results in a more even load distribution on the hollow shell, thus reducing wear and increasing its lifespan. Additionally, the more uniform moment of inertia allows for more efficient energy transfer and therefore better performance when using the ball, such as when kicking it.

[0014] The component holder can be configured to hold any type of object. The component holder can be configured to hold one or more electronic devices, such as a battery and / or a wireless transmitter, a sensor, or the like.

[0015] The term "rib" in the context of the present invention also includes the term "support," e.g., supports forming a cage-like structure. Generally, a "rib" is understood to be an elongated structure. If the component holder includes a side wall, a "rib" will project from the outer and / or inner surface of the side wall, or the "rib" may be distinguished from the side wall by its greater thickness or diameter compared to the thickness of the side wall.

[0016] The sports ball, as described herein, can be useful in any type of sporting activity, in particular in each of the examples in the following non-exhaustive list: soccer, basketball, tennis, volleyball, softball, American football, rugby and handball.

[0017] The hollow shell can provide sufficient space to accommodate the component holder and the component itself. Furthermore, the hollow shell can provide enough space to accommodate additional components or elements. In some cases, the hollow shell can provide a degree of structural integrity to the sports ball. Additionally, the hollow shell can be filled with air, a gas, or a mixture of gases. Alternatively or additionally, a structural component and / or a foamed filler material can be placed within the hollow shell, configured to contribute to the structural integrity of the sports ball.

[0018] The component holder protrudes from the inner surface of the hollow shell. Thus, the component holder projects inwards towards the center of the ball, or extends beyond it, positioning the component within an interior area of ​​the ball. In this position, the component is protected from impacts with a foot, surface, or other object when the ball is in use. It should be noted that the component protrudes from the inner surface but is not necessarily attached to it. For example, the component holder could be attached to an outer surface (i.e., away from the center of the ball) of the hollow shell, protrude through an opening in the hollow shell, and thus extend beyond its inner surface.

[0019] The term "center" of the hollow shell, as used herein, can be understood as an essentially central section of the hollow shell in a geometric sense. However, the center is not to be interpreted as indicating only such an arrangement in a strictly literal sense, but also encompasses a state in which the arrangement is shifted by a certain tolerance, thereby making it possible to achieve the same function.

[0020] The component holder can include a base section that connects the at least one rib-shaped support element to the hollow shell. This allows the component holder to be securely attached to the hollow shell on either its inner or outer surface. If the base section is attached to the outer surface of the hollow shell, it can also act as an air seal, since the hollow shell would have an opening through which the component holder would protrude from the inner surface of the hollow shell. Thus, the component holder and its base section would seal the opening, making it airtight.

[0021] The at least one rib-shaped support element can include a proximal section extending tangentially to the ball. "Proximal" in this context means closer to the center of the ball, while "distal" means farther away from the center, i.e., closer to the hollow shell. The proximal section of the rib-shaped support element secures the component radially to the ball. This keeps the component in place during impacts, such as when the ball is kicked.

[0022] The at least one rib-shaped support element can include a distal section extending radially towards the ball. The proximal section of the rib-shaped support element secures the component tangentially to the ball. This keeps the component in place during impacts, such as those caused by kicking the ball or during rapid changes in the ball's angular momentum.

[0023] The sports ball can include a component held by the component holder. Such a component could be, for example, a sensor that measures useful physical data, such as the ball's acceleration and rotation rate. The sensor can be configured to transmit this data to a receiver located nearby, and the data can be processed and used for refereeing, generating statistics, coaching, or similar purposes.

[0024] The component can include a centrally facing surface oriented towards the center of the hollow shell, with the at least one rib-shaped support element configured to support the component at the centrally facing surface when the component is held by the component holder. Preferably, the proximal portion of the at least one rib-shaped support element, extending in a tangential direction, is configured to support the component at the centrally facing surface. This secures the component to the hollow shell. In other words, the function of the proximal portion is to secure the component against movement along a radial direction by supporting the component at the centrally facing surface.

[0025] The component can include a shell-facing surface oriented to face the hollow shell in a tangential direction to the ball, wherein the at least one rib-shaped support element is configured to support the component on the shell-facing surface when the component is held by the component holder. Thus, the rib-shaped support element secures the component in a tangential direction to the ball and holds the component in place during impacts, e.g., due to kicking the ball or during rapid changes in the ball's angular momentum.

[0026] The component can encompass an edge, and the at least one rib-shaped support element is configured to extend along the edge when the component is held by the component holder, thereby at least partially enclosing the edge. This increases the contact area between the component and the component holder, reducing the pressure on both the component and the component holder during impacts.

[0027] The component can include an electronic device. Electronic devices are generally susceptible to mechanical shocks, and the risk of damaging an electronic device beyond a certain acceleration threshold increases significantly. Therefore, the present invention is particularly suitable for electronic devices that, according to the present invention, can be securely embedded in a ball by means of a lightweight construction. In a preferred embodiment, the electronic device can include an inertial measurement unit (IMU). In a preferred embodiment, the electronic device can include a battery for supplying the electronic device with electrical energy.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the electronic device can include a charging coil for inductively charging the battery.

[0029] The sports ball according to the invention can further include a damping element configured to be positioned between the hollow shell and a component held by the component holder. In this way, impacts on the ball and subsequently on the component can be further dampened by the damping element. Additionally, the damping element can minimize abrasion of both the component and the inner surface of the hollow shell caused by movement of the component relative to the inner surface of the hollow shell.

[0030] The damping element can consist of a foam material. Foam materials are inexpensive to produce, lightweight, and provide effective damping.

[0031] The component can comprise an outermost surface facing away from the center of the sports ball, and the component holder can include a cover element configured to face the outermost surface of the component and to secure the component from the outside of the component holder. In this way, the component can be secured in the component holder from the outside.

[0032] The hollow shell can contain an bladder, and the component holder can be formed integrally with the bladder. A bladder is commonly used in pressurized balls such as soccer, volleyball, and handball balls, and its function is to maintain the air pressure inside the ball, while the outer shell protects the bladder from damage. Forming the component holder integrally with the bladder allows the component to be placed on the innermost layer of the ball, which helps protect the component from heavy impacts and damage.

[0033] The hollow shell can contain a bladder, and the component holder can be attached to the bladder. With this design, the bladder and the component holder can be manufactured separately. Nevertheless, the component can be placed on the innermost layer of the ball, offering the advantages mentioned above.

[0034] The bladder can include a bladder opening, with the component holder protruding through this opening. This allows the component holder to be inserted into the bladder from the outside, which can be advantageous for certain types of bladders or for larger component holders that cannot be inserted into the bladder.

[0035] The sports ball according to the invention can comprise a first rib-shaped support element and a second rib-shaped support element connected to the first rib-shaped support element. In this way, each of the rib-shaped support elements can secure the component in different directions, so that the component is held firmly in place even during impacts in different directions. Additionally, the support is improved because the support elements can support each other.

[0036] The first rib-shaped support element and the second rib-shaped support element can form a cross-like structure at a proximal end of the component holder. In this way, the effect of both support elements combines at the proximal end to secure the component, particularly in a radial direction of the ball.

[0037] The sports ball according to the invention can comprise a plurality of rib-shaped support elements that form a cage-like structure. This secures the component in all directions. Additionally, the component holder is lightweight because continuous side walls can be omitted.

[0038] The sports ball according to the invention can comprise a first rib-shaped support element, a second rib-shaped support element, and a side wall extending between the first and second rib-shaped support elements. Side walls can be advantageous in some situations, for example, to insulate the component from air, gas, dust, or powder inside the ball. In some embodiments, the side wall can extend completely around the component. In such a case, the rib-shaped support elements can be arranged on the outside and / or inside of the side wall.

[0039] The sports ball according to the invention can comprise a first rib-shaped support element, a second rib-shaped support element, and an opening extending between the first and second rib-shaped support elements. Thus, thanks to the rib-shaped support elements, material can be omitted to save weight, while the component is still held firmly in place by the component holder.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the component holder can comprise a rubber material. In particular, the at least one rib-shaped support element can be made of a rubber material. Since rubber is elastic, impacts on the ball are dampened and the risk of damaging a component held by the component holder is reduced.

[0041] The sports ball can be an inflatable ball. Inflatable balls are commonly used for soccer, American football, volleyball, handball, and similar sports, and advantageously allow the ball's pressure to be adjusted as desired or as required by sports regulations.

[0042] The sports ball can include a structural component and / or a foamed filling material configured to contribute to the structural integrity of the sports ball. In such an embodiment, the sports ball can be non-inflatable. The hollow shell can include at least parts of the structural component, preferably the structural component forming the hollow shell and / or extending within the hollow shell. The structural component can be manufactured, for example, by 3D printing. The foamed filling material can be arranged within the hollow shell. Such arrangements can eliminate the need to inflate the ball and the need to provide a valve.

[0043] The sports ball according to the invention can include a valve, the valve being arranged on one side of the hollow shell opposite the component holder. This arrangement reduces imbalances of the ball, as the valve acts as a counterweight to the component.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the sports ball can comprise a plurality of component holders that hold a plurality of components. The plurality of components can include at least one electronic device and / or at least one counterweight. In one embodiment, the at least one electronic device can comprise a first sensor device and a second sensor device. The first sensor device and the second sensor device can be configured to measure the same and / or different parameters, such as acceleration, orientation of the ball, and pressure inside the ball.

[0045] The sports ball according to the invention can comprise a plurality of counterweights distributed over a first hemisphere of the hollow shell, which faces a second hemisphere of the hollow shell where the component holder is located. In this way, the ball can be balanced to avoid any negative influence on the ball's rolling and flight characteristics. 4. Brief description of the characters

[0046] Preferred embodiments of the disclosure are revealed below with reference to the accompanying figures. These figures show: Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B: a first embodiment of a component holder for a sports ball according to the present invention; Fig. 2: a perspective view of a further embodiment of a component holder for a sports ball according to the present invention; Fig. 3: a perspective view of a further embodiment of a component holder for a sports ball according to the present invention; Fig. 4: a perspective view of a further embodiment of a component holder for a sports ball according to the present invention; and Fig. 5: a bladder of an inflatable ball according to the present invention. 5. Detailed description of the figures

[0047] The following sections provide a detailed description of the invention, with reference to the accompanying figures for clarity. The descriptions are examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Identical reference numerals in the figures and in the text denote the same components. The figures may not reflect the actual size or scale; their dimensions, proportions, and representations of elements may have been improved for better understanding and visual convenience.

[0048] Fig. 1A and Fig. Figure 1B illustrates a first embodiment of a component holder 1 of a sports ball according to the present invention. Fig. Figure 1A shows a perspective view of component holder 1, whereas Fig. Figure 1B shows a cross-sectional view of component holder 1. How best to in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1B, the component holder 1 in this exemplary embodiment is shaped like a hut, adapted to be placed on a component 2.

[0049] Component 2 in the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 1A and Fig. Component 1B comprises an electronic device 2a, namely a printed circuit board, a battery or accumulator 2b, and an inductive coil 2c. The electronic device 2a is configured to measure the acceleration and rotation of the ball and to transmit the measured data to a receiver located nearby. It is powered by the battery or accumulator 2b. The battery or accumulator 2b can be charged by means of the inductive coil 2c when the component 2 is placed near a time-varying electromagnetic field, such as that generated by a charging coil. In other embodiments, the component could perform different functions and comprise different elements, and could also be a non-electronic component. The component 2 is also in Fig. Figure 1B shows that the component 2 has a rectangular cuboid base. Similarly, the component holder 1, which is mounted on the component 2, also has a rectangular cuboid base. In general, other component shapes are possible within the context of the present invention, and the component holder 1 would be shaped accordingly to hold the component in place.

[0050] The sports ball (not in Fig. 1A and Fig. Figure 1B shows a ball according to the invention that is specially adapted for a particular type of sport. The ball can be filled with air, gas, or a mixture of different gases. It can also be pressurized or unpressurized. Examples of sports for which the ball can be used include soccer, basketball, tennis, volleyball, softball, American football, rugby, and handball. However, the invention is not limited to these types of sports.

[0051] The ball according to the invention comprises a hollow shell (not in Fig. 1A and Fig. (1B shown) with an inner surface, i.e., facing the center of the ball. "Hollow" in this context does not necessarily mean that the interior of the ball is empty, since, as already mentioned, the ball may be filled with air, a gas, or a mixture of different gases. The shell may also accommodate other components, which may or may not be held in place by a component holder, as described herein. The component holder 1 projects from the inner surface of the hollow shell, i.e., it points toward or is oriented toward the center of the ball.

[0052] The component holder 1 in the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B comprises a first rib-shaped support element 3 and a second rib-shaped support element 4. In other embodiments, the number of rib-shaped support elements could differ, i.e., be more or less than two. The rib-shaped support elements 3 and 4 in the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B are implemented as reinforcing bulges on the side walls 5 of the component holder 1. The first rib-shaped support element 3 comprises a proximal section 3a and distal sections 3b and 3c. In this context, "proximal" means closer to the center of the ball, whereas "distal" means farther from the center, i.e., closer to the hollow shell. Similarly, the second rib-shaped support element 4 comprises a proximal section 4a and distal sections 4b and 4c.

[0053] The distal sections 3b, 3c, 4b, and 4c of the rib-shaped support elements 3, 4 are arranged at the four edges of the rectangular cuboid shape of the component holder 1 and extend along it, essentially in a radial direction around the ball. The proximal sections 3a and 4a of the rib-shaped support elements 3, 4 are arranged at a proximal end or proximal surface of the component holder 1 and extend essentially in a tangential direction around the ball. The proximal sections 3a and 4a intersect at the center of the proximal surface to form a cross-like structure.

[0054] Thus, the distal sections 3b, 3c, 4b, and 4c of the rib-shaped support elements 3, 4 support component 2 on the surfaces of the component facing the shell, which are oriented such that they face the hollow shell in a tangential direction to the ball. In this embodiment, the side walls 5 of the component holder 1, which are arranged between the distal sections 3b, 3c, 4b, and 4c, also contribute to the support of component 2. Similarly, the proximal sections 3a and 4a of the rib-shaped support elements 3, 4 support component 2 on a surface facing the center, which is oriented such that it faces the center of the hollow shell. In this embodiment, the side walls 5 of the component holder 1, which are arranged between the proximal sections 3a and 4a, also contribute to the support of component 2.

[0055] In the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B, side walls 5 are arranged between the rib-shaped support elements 3, 4. Consequently, component 2 is completely sealed against the interior of the hollow shell of the ball.

[0056] The component holder 1 comprises a circular circumferential base section 6, which may be bonded, welded, sewn, or otherwise connected to the inner surface of the hollow shell and which connects the rib-shaped support elements 3, 4 to the hollow shell. Other embodiments may not include such a base section 6. In other embodiments, the component holder 1 may also not be attached to the inner surface of the hollow shell. For example, the component holder 1 may be attached to an outer surface (i.e., away from the center of the sphere) of the hollow shell, projecting through an opening in the hollow shell and thus projecting from its inner surface.

[0057] In the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 1A and Fig. In Figure 1B, the component holder 1 includes a foam disc 7, which is arranged between the component 2 and the interior of the hollow shell. Thus, the foam disc 7 acts as a damping element for the component 2. The foam disc can be made of a foamable plastic material in a known manner.

[0058] Fig. Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of a further embodiment of a component holder 1 of a sports ball according to the present invention, which corresponds to the embodiment of the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B is similar. In particular, the housing of the component holder, i.e., the rib-shaped support elements 3, 4 and the side walls 5, are similar. Therefore, everything that applies with regard to the Fig. 1A and Fig. The same applies here as described in section 1B regarding these elements. The same is true for component 2.

[0059] Unlike in the embodiment of the Fig. 1A and Fig. In 1B, however, the foam disc 7 is arranged between a proximal end of the component and a proximal end of the component holder 1. Thus, in this embodiment, additional damping is provided in the event of radial movement of the component 1 towards the center of the ball and away from the inner surface of the hollow shell. In other embodiments, the component holder 1 can comprise two damping elements, one arranged at a distal end of the component 2 and one arranged at a proximal end of the component 2. This would result in a combination of the embodiments of Fig. 1A / Fig. 1B and Fig. 2 lead.

[0060] Fig. Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a component holder 1 for a sports ball according to the present invention. This embodiment is similar to the previous embodiments. Therefore, everything described here also applies to Fig. 3 applicable. Unlike the previous embodiments, however, the proximal end of the component holder 1 does not include side walls. Thus, in this embodiment, the component 2 is secured in a radial direction towards the center of the hollow shell of the ball only by the proximal sections 3a, 4a of the rib-shaped support elements 3 and 4. The four sides of the component holder 1, however, include side walls 5 as in the previous embodiments. Omitting the side walls at the proximal end helps to further reduce the weight of the component holder 1.

[0061] Fig. Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a component holder 1 for a sports ball according to the present invention. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment of Fig. 3. In this embodiment, however, the side walls on the four sides of the component holder were also omitted. Thus, component 2 is held in place in a tangential direction to the hollow shell of the ball by the distal sections 3b, 3c, 4b, and 4c of the rib-shaped support elements 3, 4, which form a cage-like structure. Omitting the side walls on the sides of the component holder 1 further reduces the weight of the component holder 1.

[0062] Fig. Figure 5 illustrates a bladder 8 of an inflatable ball according to the present invention. The ball comprises an additional outer shell (in Fig.5 (not shown) and optionally a carcass arranged between the outer shell and the bladder 8. Thus, the bladder forms a hollow shell 8 with an inner surface 9. In operation, the bladder is usually filled with air, which may be pressurized (i.e., above ambient pressure) or unpressurized (i.e., at ambient pressure). To fill the bladder 8 with air, the bladder 8 includes a valve 10 through which air (or a gas) can enter the bladder.

[0063] A component holder 1 projects inwards from the inner surface 9 of the bladder 8, i.e., towards the center of the bladder 8. The component holder 1 is positioned opposite the valve 10, thus minimizing any imbalance of the ball. The component holder 1 holds a component 2, which is similar to the components shown in the previous figures. The component holder 1 is attached to the inner surface 9 of the bladder 8 by means of a base section, as described with reference to the previous embodiments.

[0064] While in the embodiments shown in the figures the component holder 1 is manufactured separately from the shell or bladder of the ball and then attached to it, in other embodiments the component holder 1 can be manufactured as an integral part of the shell or bladder. In the figures, the component holder 1 is also attached to the inner surface of the shell or bladder. In other embodiments, the shell or bladder can include an opening through which the component holder can protrude. In this case, the component holder 1 can include a base section similar to the base section 5 shown in the figures, and the base section is attached to an outer surface of the shell or bladder.The component holder may also include a lid element that is attached to the base section and / or the outer surface of the shell or bladder to secure the component within the component holder and ultimately to seal the component holder airtight to the outside.

[0065] While the figures show a single component holder 1, in other embodiments the ball can also comprise a plurality of component holders distributed in such a way as to minimize any imbalance of the ball. Regardless of the number of component holders, counterweights can be attached to the inner surface of the hollow shell, for example, via a first hemisphere of the hollow shell opposite a second hemisphere where one or more component holders are arranged. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 2022 / 0296968 A1

[0006] WO 2014 / 151405 A2

[0007]

Claims

Sports ball comprising: a hollow shell (8) comprising an inner surface (9); and a component holder (1) projecting from the inner surface (9) of the hollow shell (8), the component holder (1) comprising at least one rib-shaped support element (3, 4). Sports ball according to claim 1, wherein the component holder (1) comprises a base section (6) which connects the at least one rib-shaped support element (3, 4) to the hollow shell (8). Sports ball according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one rib-shaped support element (3, 4) comprises a proximal section (3a, 4a) extending in a tangential direction of the ball. Sports ball according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one rib-shaped support element (3, 4) comprises a distal section (3b, 3c, 4b, 4c) extending in a radial direction of the ball. Sports ball according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sports ball comprises a component (2) which is held by the component holder (1). Sports ball according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the component (2) comprises a centrally facing surface oriented such that it faces a center of the hollow shell (8), wherein the at least one rib-shaped support element is configured to support the component (2) on the centrally facing surface when the component (2) is held by the component holder (1). Sports ball according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the component (2) comprises a surface facing the shell which is oriented such that it faces the hollow shell (8) in a tangential direction of the ball, wherein the at least one rib-shaped support element is configured to support the component (2) on the surface facing the shell when the component (2) is held by the component holder (1). Sports ball according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the component (2) comprises an edge and the at least one rib-shaped support element is configured to extend along the edge when the component (2) is held by the component holder (1), and thereby at least partially enclose the edge. Sports ball according to one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the component (2) comprises an electronic device. Sports ball according to the preceding claim, further comprising a damping element (7) configured to be arranged between the hollow shell (8) and a component (2) held by the component holder (1). Sports ball according to the preceding claim, wherein the damping element (7) comprises a foam material. Sports ball according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the component (2) comprises an outermost surface facing away from the center of the sports ball, and wherein the component holder (1) comprises a cover element configured to face the outermost surface of the component (2) and configured to secure the component (2) from an outside of the component holder (1). Sports ball according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the hollow shell (8) comprises a bladder and the component holder (1) is formed integrally with the bladder. Sports ball according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the hollow shell (8) comprises a bladder and the component holder (1) is attached to the bladder. Sports ball according to the preceding claim, wherein the bladder comprises a bladder opening, wherein the component holder (1) protrudes through the bladder opening. Sports ball according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a first rib-shaped support element and a second rib-shaped support element connected to the first rib-shaped support element. Sports ball according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first rib-shaped support element and the second rib-shaped support element form a cross-like structure at a proximal end of the component holder (1). Sports ball according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of rib-shaped support elements forming a cage-like structure. Sports ball according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a first rib-shaped support element, a second rib-shaped support element and a side wall extending between the first rib-shaped support element and the second rib-shaped support element. Sports ball according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a first rib-shaped support element, a second rib-shaped support element and an opening extending between the first rib-shaped support element and the second rib-shaped support element. Sports ball according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sports ball is an inflatable ball. Sports ball according to the preceding claim, comprising a valve, wherein the valve is arranged on one side of the hollow shell (8) opposite the component holder (1). Sports ball according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of counterweights distributed over a first hemisphere of the hollow shell (8) which is opposite a second hemisphere of the hollow shell (8) where the component holder (1) is arranged.

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