Device for absorbing impact in sports rackets

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for absorbing impact in sports rackets, formed by a body (1) in the form of a ring designed to be placed on a user's fingers, which comprises at least one matrix (2) of semirigid, flexible and elastic material that surrounds at least one layer (3) of material having high elasticity, high viscoelasticity and high shock absorbance, designed to absorb and disperse energy from impact and vibrations, the matrix (2) being covered by a covering (4) of elastomer material, wherein the layer (3) comprises a plurality of fibres (3.1), at least one sheet (3.2) or a combination of a plurality of fibres (3.1) and at least one sheet (3.2), and at least one chamber (6) filled with air or with any proportion of a shock-absorbing substance (7).

Description

Object of the Invention

[0001] The object of the present invention, as set forth in the title thereof, is an impact-absorbing device that allows the vibrations of sports rackets to be absorbed. The invention constitutes an innovation which, within current techniques, provides advantages previously unknown.

[0002] The present invention is characterised by the specific functional and structural features of the elements that form part of the device, in such a way that all of them contribute to achieving an impact-absorbing device for sports rackets.Technical Field

[0003] Accordingly, the present invention falls within the field of sports equipment and, more specifically, within the sector of accessories for sports rackets.Background of the Invention

[0004] Vibration is the rapid, small-amplitude oscillatory movement of a body. A tennis racket may vibrate between 100 and 200 Hz when struck by a ball. At the moment the ball is hit with a racket, two types of vibration are produced.

[0005] The vibration of the string bed is due to its elasticity; it is the string bed that loses the least amount of energy at the moment of impact. This elasticity assists in returning the ball while applying the least possible deformation. That is, the less the ball deforms during this exchange, the greater the power with which it will rebound, since it will have lost less energy and will leave at a higher speed.

[0006] The vibration of the frame results from the change in kinetic energy upon impact. This is the vibration that most affects the sensations felt in the player's arm, as the vibration in the frame is transmitted toward the handle, the point of contact with the user's body. It is necessary for the racket to have a certain degree of flexibility so that the frame bends, thereby reducing the vibration transmitted to the arm as a result of the impact.

[0007] The device for which protection is sought aims to reduce the vibrations transmitted to users through the handle of the racket.

[0008] With reference to the current state of the art, it should be noted that, although different designs of impact-absorbing devices are known, the existence of any other device that presents structural and constitutive technical features identical or similar to those of the invention claimed herein is unknown.Explanation of the Invention

[0009] The object of the invention is an impact-absorbing device for sports rackets that reduces the vibrations transmitted to users when a sports racket is used.

[0010] Specifically, as previously mentioned, the invention proposes a ring-shaped body worn by the user on the fingers, which comprises a section configured to be in contact with the handle of the racket, the body being made of a semi-rigid, flexible, vibration-absorbing material. In this way, the vibrations of the racket are absorbed by the body.

[0011] Likewise, the ring is made of an elastic and breathable material that provides the user with greater comfort and prevents perspiration from interfering with the use of the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets.

[0012] The body comprises, in its interior, at least one matrix of a semi-rigid, flexible, and elastic material that surrounds at least one layer made of a highly elastic, viscoelastic, and damping material configured to absorb and disperse the energy of impacts and vibrations. This layer, depending on the embodiment, may be composed of a plurality of transversely oriented fibres, sheets, or a combination thereof, extending along the interior of the body.

[0013] Said matrix is coated with a covering of an elastomeric material capable of absorbing vibrations and soft to the touch.

[0014] Furthermore, the section comprises at least one chamber that, depending on the embodiment, is filled with air or is filled, in any proportion, with a damping substance. The substance may also comprise a plurality of high-density elements, such as pellets or balls, functioning as weight-like components.

[0015] It is important to note that the damping substance contained in the aforementioned chamber may be a fluid, such as oil or similar, intended to act as a medium for attenuating the vibration resulting from the impact received by the racket.

[0016] Additionally, the body, on its inner portion, comprises a lining made of a semi-rigid, flexible, elastic, and breathable material that provides the user with greater comfort and prevents perspiration from interfering with the use of the device.

[0017] It should also be noted that this ring-shaped damping device is functional in the practice of any sport involving the use of a striking implement held by the user's hand, which is therefore susceptible to receiving corresponding impacts and vibrations. Advantageously, by attenuating and reducing such effects, the new device allows the sport to be practised for a longer period of time and with reduced muscular and joint fatigue in the arm.

[0018] Unless otherwise indicated, all technical and scientific terms used in the present specification have the meaning commonly understood by a person skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. In carrying out the present invention, procedures and materials similar or equivalent to those described in this specification may be used.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019] To complement the description being made and promote a better understanding of the features of the invention, the present specification is accompanied, as an integral part thereof, by a set of drawings in which the following is represented for illustrative and non-limiting purposes: Figure 1 is a perspective view of the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets in an embodiment with a first exterior design of the ring. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets in an embodiment with an exterior ring design with improved definition for accommodating the user's finger. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets showing, inside the body (1), the layer (3) composed of a plurality of fibres (3.1) and a sheet (3.2). Figure 4 is a sectional view of the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets. Figure 5 is a detailed view of the section of the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets. Preferred Embodiment of the Invention

[0020] In view of the figures, a preferred but non-limiting embodiment of the proposed invention is described below, the invention consisting of an impact-absorbing device for sports rackets.

[0021] As shown in the figures, the impact-absorbing device comprises a body (1) in the form of a ring configured to be worn on the user's fingers, which comprises at least one matrix (2) made of a semi-rigid, flexible, and elastic material that surrounds at least one layer (3) made of a highly elastic, viscoelastic, and damping material configured to absorb and disperse the energy of impacts and vibrations.

[0022] The matrix (2) is coated with a covering (4) made of an elastomeric material capable of absorbing vibrations. The ring (1) is made of an elastic and breathable material.

[0023] The layer (3), depending on the embodiment, may be composed of a plurality of fibres (3.1), sheets (3.2), or a combination thereof.

[0024] Furthermore, the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets includes a section (5) configured to be in contact with a sports racket and comprising at least one chamber (6) that, depending on the embodiment, is filled with air or is filled, in any proportion, with a damping substance (7). The substance (7) may also comprise a plurality of high-density elements (8), which in Figure 4 are shown as balls, without limitation as to size or material.

[0025] Additionally, the body (1), in its inner portion, comprises a lining (9) made of a semi-rigid, flexible, elastic, and breathable material.

[0026] Having sufficiently described the nature of the present invention, as well as the manner of putting it into practice, it is not considered necessary to extend its explanation for any expert in the field to understand its scope and the advantages derived therefrom. Moreover, it should be noted that, within its essential nature, the invention may be put into practice in other embodiments that differ in detail from the example indicated, and such embodiments shall likewise fall within the protection sought, provided that its fundamental principle is not altered, changed, or modified.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0020]In view of the figures, a preferred but non-limiting embodiment of the proposed invention is described below, the invention consisting of an impact-absorbing device for sports rackets.

[0021]As shown in the figures, the impact-absorbing device comprises a body (1) in the form of a ring configured to be worn on the user's fingers, which comprises at least one matrix (2) made of a semi-rigid, flexible, and elastic material that surrounds at least one layer (3) made of a highly elastic, viscoelastic, and damping material configured to absorb and disperse the energy of impacts and vibrations.

[0022]The matrix (2) is coated with a covering (4) made of an elastomeric material capable of absorbing vibrations. The ring (1) is made of an elastic and breathable material.

[0023]The layer (3), depending on the embodiment, may be composed of a plurality of fibres (3.1), sheets (3.2), or a combination thereof.

[0024]Furthermore, the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets includes a section ...

Object of the Invention

[0001] The object of the present invention, as set forth in the title thereof, is an impact-absorbing device that allows the vibrations of sports rackets to be absorbed. The invention constitutes an innovation which, within current techniques, provides advantages previously unknown.

[0002] The present invention is characterised by the specific functional and structural features of the elements that form part of the device, in such a way that all of them contribute to achieving an impact-absorbing device for sports rackets.Technical Field

[0003] Accordingly, the present invention falls within the field of sports equipment and, more specifically, within the sector of accessories for sports rackets.Background of the Invention

[0004] Vibration is the rapid, small-amplitude oscillatory movement of a body. A tennis racket may vibrate between 100 and 200 Hz when struck by a ball. At the moment the ball is hit with a racket, two types of vibration are produced.

[0005] The vibration of the string bed is due to its elasticity; it is the string bed that loses the least amount of energy at the moment of impact. This elasticity assists in returning the ball while applying the least possible deformation. That is, the less the ball deforms during this exchange, the greater the power with which it will rebound, since it will have lost less energy and will leave at a higher speed.

[0006] The vibration of the frame results from the change in kinetic energy upon impact. This is the vibration that most affects the sensations felt in the player's arm, as the vibration in the frame is transmitted toward the handle, the point of contact with the user's body. It is necessary for the racket to have a certain degree of flexibility so that the frame bends, thereby reducing the vibration transmitted to the arm as a result of the impact.

[0007] The device for which protection is sought aims to reduce the vibrations transmitted to users through the handle of the racket.

[0008] With reference to the current state of the art, it should be noted that, although different designs of impact-absorbing devices are known, the existence of any other device that presents structural and constitutive technical features identical or similar to those of the invention claimed herein is unknown.Explanation of the Invention

[0009] The object of the invention is an impact-absorbing device for sports rackets that reduces the vibrations transmitted to users when a sports racket is used.

[0010] Specifically, as previously mentioned, the invention proposes a ring-shaped body worn by the user on the fingers, which comprises a section configured to be in contact with the handle of the racket, the body being made of a semi-rigid, flexible, vibration-absorbing material. In this way, the vibrations of the racket are absorbed by the body.

[0011] Likewise, the ring is made of an elastic and breathable material that provides the user with greater comfort and prevents perspiration from interfering with the use of the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets.

[0012] The body comprises, in its interior, at least one matrix of a semi-rigid, flexible, and elastic material that surrounds at least one layer made of a highly elastic, viscoelastic, and damping material configured to absorb and disperse the energy of impacts and vibrations. This layer, depending on the embodiment, may be composed of a plurality of transversely oriented fibres, sheets, or a combination thereof, extending along the interior of the body.

[0013] Said matrix is coated with a covering of an elastomeric material capable of absorbing vibrations and soft to the touch.

[0014] Furthermore, the section comprises at least one chamber that, depending on the embodiment, is filled with air or is filled, in any proportion, with a damping substance. The substance may also comprise a plurality of high-density elements, such as pellets or balls, functioning as weight-like components.

[0015] It is important to note that the damping substance contained in the aforementioned chamber may be a fluid, such as oil or similar, intended to act as a medium for attenuating the vibration resulting from the impact received by the racket.

[0016] Additionally, the body, on its inner portion, comprises a lining made of a semi-rigid, flexible, elastic, and breathable material that provides the user with greater comfort and prevents perspiration from interfering with the use of the device.

[0017] It should also be noted that this ring-shaped damping device is functional in the practice of any sport involving the use of a striking implement held by the user's hand, which is therefore susceptible to receiving corresponding impacts and vibrations. Advantageously, by attenuating and reducing such effects, the new device allows the sport to be practised for a longer period of time and with reduced muscular and joint fatigue in the arm.

[0018] Unless otherwise indicated, all technical and scientific terms used in the present specification have the meaning commonly understood by a person skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. In carrying out the present invention, procedures and materials similar or equivalent to those described in this specification may be used.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019] To complement the description being made and promote a better understanding of the features of the invention, the present specification is accompanied, as an integral part thereof, by a set of drawings in which the following is represented for illustrative and non-limiting purposes: Figure 1 is a perspective view of the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets in an embodiment with a first exterior design of the ring. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets in an embodiment with an exterior ring design with improved definition for accommodating the user's finger. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets showing, inside the body (1), the layer (3) composed of a plurality of fibres (3.1) and a sheet (3.2). Figure 4 is a sectional view of the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets. Figure 5 is a detailed view of the section of the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets. Preferred Embodiment of the Invention

[0020] In view of the figures, a preferred but non-limiting embodiment of the proposed invention is described below, the invention consisting of an impact-absorbing device for sports rackets.

[0021] As shown in the figures, the impact-absorbing device comprises a body (1) in the form of a ring configured to be worn on the user's fingers, which comprises at least one matrix (2) made of a semi-rigid, flexible, and elastic material that surrounds at least one layer (3) made of a highly elastic, viscoelastic, and damping material configured to absorb and disperse the energy of impacts and vibrations.

[0022] The matrix (2) is coated with a covering (4) made of an elastomeric material capable of absorbing vibrations. The ring (1) is made of an elastic and breathable material.

[0023] The layer (3), depending on the embodiment, may be composed of a plurality of fibres (3.1), sheets (3.2), or a combination thereof.

[0024] Furthermore, the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets includes a section (5) configured to be in contact with a sports racket and comprising at least one chamber (6) that, depending on the embodiment, is filled with air or is filled, in any proportion, with a damping substance (7). The substance (7) may also comprise a plurality of high-density elements (8), which in Figure 4 are shown as balls, without limitation as to size or material.

[0025] Additionally, the body (1), in its inner portion, comprises a lining (9) made of a semi-rigid, flexible, elastic, and breathable material.

[0026] Having sufficiently described the nature of the present invention, as well as the manner of putting it into practice, it is not considered necessary to extend its explanation for any expert in the field to understand its scope and the advantages derived therefrom. Moreover, it should be noted that, within its essential nature, the invention may be put into practice in other embodiments that differ in detail from the example indicated, and such embodiments shall likewise fall within the protection sought, provided that its fundamental principle is not altered, changed, or modified.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0020]In view of the figures, a preferred but non-limiting embodiment of the proposed invention is described below, the invention consisting of an impact-absorbing device for sports rackets.

[0021]As shown in the figures, the impact-absorbing device comprises a body (1) in the form of a ring configured to be worn on the user's fingers, which comprises at least one matrix (2) made of a semi-rigid, flexible, and elastic material that surrounds at least one layer (3) made of a highly elastic, viscoelastic, and damping material configured to absorb and disperse the energy of impacts and vibrations.

[0022]The matrix (2) is coated with a covering (4) made of an elastomeric material capable of absorbing vibrations. The ring (1) is made of an elastic and breathable material.

[0023]The layer (3), depending on the embodiment, may be composed of a plurality of fibres (3.1), sheets (3.2), or a combination thereof.

[0024]Furthermore, the impact-absorbing device for sports rackets includes a section ...

Claims

1. Impact-absorbing device for sports rackets, comprising a body (1) in the form of a ring configured to be worn on the user's fingers, characterised in that it comprises at least one matrix (2) made of a semi-rigid, flexible, and elastic material that surrounds at least one layer (3) made of a material with high elasticity, high viscoelasticity, and high damping capacity, configured to absorb and disperse the energy of impacts and vibrations, the matrix (2) being coated with a covering (4) made of an elastomeric material.

2. Impact-absorbing device for sports rackets according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the layer (3) comprises a plurality of fibres (3.1).

3. Impact-absorbing device for sports rackets according to claim 1, characterised in that the layer (3) comprises at least one sheet (3.2).

4. Impact-absorbing device for sports rackets according to claim 1, characterised in that the layer (3) comprises a combination of a plurality of fibres (3.1) and at least one sheet (3.2).

5. Impact-absorbing device for sports rackets according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that it includes a section (5) configured to be in contact with a sports racket and comprising at least one chamber (6).

6. Impact-absorbing device for sports rackets according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the chamber (6) is filled with air or is filled, in any proportion, with a damping substance (7).

7. Impact-absorbing device for sports rackets according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the damping substance (7) comprises a plurality of high-density elements (8).

8. Impact-absorbing device for sports rackets according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the body (1) comprises, on its inner portion, a lining (9) made of a semi-rigid, flexible, elastic, and breathable material.

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