A goal for a ball sport

Abstract

A kit of parts for a goal for a ball sport, the kit comprising: • two tubular post members 101, each independently comprising a first leg interengaging formation at a lower end 101b of the post member; • a tubular crossbar 102; • a tubular base 103 comprising two arms 105 and a base bar 104, wherein the two arms 105 are configured to in use extend from the base bar 104, each arm 105 independently comprising a second leg interengaging formation at a goal-line end 105a of the arm 105; • · at least two tubular elbow connectors 200, each comprising a first 210 and second 220 leg, the first leg 210 having a different cross-sectional diameter to the cross-sectional diameter of the second leg 220, wherein, in order to allow for a secure coupling of the base 103 to the post members 101: ∘ the first leg 210 comprises a post interengaging formation 230 complimentary to the first leg interengaging formation, the post interengaging formation configured to in use engage with the complementary first leg interengaging formation, and ∘ the second leg 220 comprises an arm interengaging formation 230 complimentary to the second leg interengaging formation, the arm interengaging formation configured to in use engage with the complementary second leg interengaging formation; and • a net; wherein the post members 101 have a different cross-sectional diameter to the arms 105 of the base 103, to enable storage of one within the other.

Description

Field

[0001] The disclosure relates to a kit of parts for a goal for a ball sport, a goal for a ball sport, a tubular elbow connector for coupling a base of a goal to a post member, and a method of assembling a goal for a ball sport.Background

[0002] Portable football goals commonly comprise tubular goal frame components - crossbar, posts, base, and corner brackets - that can be assembled on site to erect the goal, before attaching a net. These portable football goals tend to require the use of fastening means to securely couple the different components together. In use, the fastening means would sit around the join between a corner bracket and a goal frame component. Fastening means are important for ensuring that the components, especially the base and posts, remain securely coupled together in use. The fastening means can be unfastened to disassemble the goal when not in use. One of the most widely used fastening means in this field are clips, supplied separately to the crossbar, posts and base components.

[0003] Furthermore, typical portable football goals comprise tubular components that are of a uniform cross-sectional diameter. As such, the crossbar, posts, and base are all of the same cross-sectional diameter. When these portable football goals are not in use, such as when in a disassembled state, each component must be transported as an isolated component. Such disassembled goals require a large amount of space during both storage and transportation.Summary

[0004] It has been identified that existing fastening means, such as clips, have several disadvantages.

[0005] Firstly, as the clips are supplied as separate parts, they are often lost, necessitating purchase of replacement parts.

[0006] Secondly, as they are exposed in use, repeated impact of the ball on such clips may weaken them or even result in irreparable damage, leading to poorer coupling or inability of coupling of the components. This again may necessitate purchase of replacement parts.

[0007] In addition, it is desirable for goal assemblies to have a high degree of portability.

[0008] As such, it has been recognised that the issues associated with existing fastening means and portability of current goal assemblies need to be addressed.

[0009] If the different tubular components of the goal would be of different diameter, for example a post of one diameter and a base component, such as an arm, of a different diameter, one may be receivable within the other when not in use. This enables one component to be stored within the other, enhancing both portability and storage capacity, as the disassembled goal occupies less space in comparison to the disassembled individual components.

[0010] In a first aspect, there is provided a kit of parts for a ball sport. The kit comprises: two tubular post members, each independently comprising a first leg interengaging formation at a lower end of the post member; a tubular crossbar; a tubular base comprising two arms and a base bar, wherein the two arms are configured to extend from the base bar, each arm independently comprising a second leg interengaging formation at a goal-line end of the arm; at least two tubular elbow connectors, each comprising a first and second leg, the first leg having a different cross-sectional diameter to the cross-sectional diameter of the second leg, wherein, in order to allow for a secure coupling of the base to the post members: ∘ the first leg comprises a post interengaging formation complimentary to the first leg interengaging formation, the post interengaging formation configured to in use engage with the complementary first leg interengaging formation, and ∘ the second leg comprises an arm interengaging formation complimentary to the second leg interengaging formation, the arm interengaging formation configured to in use engage with the complementary second leg interengaging formation; and a net; wherein the post members have a different cross-sectional diameter to the arms of the base, to enable storage of one within the other.

[0011] When the tubular components of the goal are in a disassembled state and provided as a kit, the tubular components may be packed together such that certain components are stored within other. For example, each arm of the base may be stored within each post member. The inventors have discovered that this reduces the packaging space required for the kit by a third, which is particularly advantageous in transportation and storage.

[0012] In a second aspect, there is provided a goal for a ball sport, the goal comprising the assembled kit of parts according to the first aspect, wherein: the two post members independently comprise upper and lower ends; the crossbar is coupled to and extends perpendicularly between the upper ends of the post members; each tubular elbow connector securely couples the goal-line end of an arm to the lower end of the post member, such that the arms extend in a plane perpendicular to that defined by the post members and the crossbar; and the net attached to the post members, crossbar, and base, to provide an opening enclosed between the two post members and the crossbar, such that in use, balls that pass beyond the opening are receivable by the net; wherein the base is securely coupled to the post member by: the complementary first leg and post interengaging formations engaging, and the complementary second leg and arm interengaging formations engaging.

[0013] The goal for a ball sport of the invention bypasses the need for separate clips, thanks to instead utilising tubular elbow connectors comprising interengaging formations. The tubular elbow connectors enable the post members to be securely coupled to the base of the goal as the post interengaging formation and the first leg interengaging formation engage to secure the first leg to the lower end of the post member, and the arm interengaging formation and the second leg interengaging formation engage to secure the second leg to the goal-line end of the arm. These complementary interengaging formations in use engage to securely couple the base to the post member. Such tubular elbow components may therefore be considered as comprising integrated clips, avoiding the requirement for any additional fastening means.

[0014] In a third aspect, there is provided a tubular elbow connector configured for use in the goal according to the second aspect.

[0015] In a fourth aspect, there is provided a method of assembling a goal for a ball sport. The method comprises: providing a kit of parts of the first aspect; coupling the crossbar to the upper ends of the post members; coupling the first leg of the tubular elbow connector to the lower end of the post member; and coupling the second leg of the tubular elbow connector to the goal-line end of the arm, such that the complementary first leg and post interengaging formations engage, and the complementary second leg and arm interengaging formations engage, to securely couple the base to the post member; and attaching the net to the post members, crossbar, and base to enclose an opening between the two post members and the crossbar, such that in use, balls that pass beyond the opening are receivable within the net.

[0016] It will be understood that the tubular elbow connector of the third aspect is used in all aspects of the invention. As such, the kit of parts for a goal for a ball sport of the first aspect comprises tubular elbow connectors of the third aspect; the goal for a ball sport of the second aspect comprises tubular elbow connectors of the third aspect; and the method of assembling a goal for a ball sport of the fourth aspect comprises tubular elbow connectors of the third aspect.

[0017] The tubular elbow connector of the third aspect enables coupling to the different cross-sectional diameters of the arms and post members, as the first leg has a different cross-sectional diameter to the cross-sectional diameter of the second leg.

[0018] In one example, the outer cross-sectional diameter of the arm is smaller than the inner cross-sectional diameter of the post member, to enable storage of the arm within the post member. When the kit is in a disassembled state, this enables the storage of the arm within the post member. This facilitates improved transportability and storage in comparison to existing goal assemblies.

[0019] In one example, the outer cross-sectional diameter of the post member is smaller than the inner cross-sectional diameter of the arm, to enable storage of the post member within the arm. When the kit is in the disassembled state, this enables storage of the post member within the arm. This facilitates improved transportability and storage in comparison to existing goal assemblies.

[0020] Preferably, the cross-sectional diameter of the post member remains constant along the length of the post member. Preferably, the cross-sectional diameter of the arm remains constant along the length of the arm.

[0021] The cross-sectional diameter of the post member may be from 40 to 100mm, such as from 50mm to 90mm, or from 60 to 80mm. In one example, the cross-sectional diameter of the post member is 70mm.

[0022] The cross-sectional diameter of the arm may be from 40 to 100mm, such as from 50mm to 90mm, or from 60 to 80mm.

[0023] The cross-sectional diameter of the post member may be from 30 to 90mm, such as from 40mm to 80mm, or from 50mm to 70mm.

[0024] The cross-sectional diameter of the arm may be from 30 to 90mm, such as from 40mm to 80mm, or from 50mm to 70mm. In one example, the cross-sectional diameter of the arm is 60mm.

[0025] The inner cross-sectional diameter of the post member may be greater than the outer cross-sectional diameter of the arm, such as from 5mm to 25mm greater, 5 to 20mm greater, 5 to 15mm greater, or 5 to 10mm greater than the outer cross-sectional diameter of the arm.

[0026] The inner cross-sectional diameter of the arm may be greater than the outer cross-sectional diameter of the post member, such as from 5mm to 25mm greater, 5 to 20mm greater, 5 to 15mm greater, or 5 to 10mm greater than the outer cross-sectional diameter of the post member.

[0027] In one example, both of the complementary post interengaging formation and the first leg interengaging formation, and the complementary arm interengaging formation and second leg interengaging formation, comprise a protrusion and an aperture. The protrusion may be receivable within the aperture. These complementary interengaging formations provide means for securely fastening the base to the post members via the tubular elbow connector. They additionally avoid the need for any additional components, as the interengaging formations, such as the protrusion and aperture, act as integral clips. However, the complementary interengaging formations may also take other forms than protrusions and apertures, such as for example bayonet couplings or other types of twisting mountings.

[0028] In one example, the post interengaging formation may be a protrusion on the exterior of the first leg, and the arm interengaging formation may be a protrusion on the exterior of the second leg, of the tubular elbow connector. The first leg interengaging formation may be an aperture in the lower end of the post member, and the second leg interengaging formation may be an aperture in the goal-line end of the arm.

[0029] In one example, the post interengaging formation may be an aperture in the first leg, and the arm interengaging formation may be an aperture in the second leg, of the tubular elbow connector. The first leg interengaging formation may be a protrusion on the exterior of the lower end of the post member, and the second leg interengaging formation may be a protrusion on the exterior of the goal-line end of the arm.

[0030] In one example, the post interengaging formation may be a protrusion on the exterior of the first leg, and the arm interengaging formation may be an aperture in the second leg, and the first leg interengaging formation may be an aperture in the lower end of the post member, and the second leg interengaging formation may be a protrusion on the exterior of the goal-line end of the arm.

[0031] In one example, the post interengaging formation may be an aperture in the first leg, and the arm interengaging formation may be a protrusion on the exterior of the second leg, and the first leg interengaging formation may be a protrusion on the exterior of the lower end of a post member, and the second leg interengaging formation may be an aperture in the goal-line end of the arm.

[0032] In one example, the tubular elbow connector may comprise a plurality of protrusions on the exterior of the first leg. The tubular elbow connector may comprise a plurality of protrusions on the exterior of the second leg. The plurality of protrusions are preferably arranged around the exterior circumference of the first and / or second leg. The skilled person would understand that where a plurality of protrusions on either leg of the tubular elbow connector are used, the lower end of the post member or goal-line end of the arm preferably comprises the same number of apertures that, in use, align with the protrusions on the exterior of the first or second leg to securely couple the base to the post members.

[0033] There may be two protrusions on the exterior of the first leg. There may be two protrusions on the exterior of the second leg. These protrusions would be spaced around the circumference of each leg. Preferably, the protrusions would be spaced out opposite each other around the circumference of each leg. Where there are two protrusions on the exterior of the first leg, there would preferably be two apertures in the lower end of the post member. Where there are two protrusions on the exterior of the second leg, there would preferably be two apertures in the goal-line end of the arm. Depression of the two protrusions may be possible using a single hand of the user.

[0034] The protrusion may have a circular cross section. The protrusion may have an oval cross section. The protrusion may have a polygonal cross section. The protrusion may have an n-sided polygonal cross section, wherein n is from 3 to 20, such as from 3 to 15, from 3 to 12, from 3 to 10, from 3 to 8, or from 3 to 5. Preferably, the protrusion has a circular cross section.

[0035] The cross section of the aperture may be complementary to the protrusion cross-section. As such, the cross-sectional shape of the aperture may be the same as the protrusion cross-section. For example, if the cross-sectional shape of the aperture is circular, the protrusion cross-section may be circular.

[0036] The area of the protrusion cross section may be less than the cross-sectional area of the aperture. For example, in use, the protrusions may fit flush within the aperture.

[0037] In one example, the first leg of the tubular elbow connector is configured to be receivable within the lower end of a post member, and the second leg of the tubular elbow connector is configured to be receivable within the goal-line end of the arm, such that the post interengaging formation and the first leg interengaging formation are configured to in use engage to secure the first leg to the lower end of the post member, and the arm interengaging formation and the second leg interengaging formation are configured to in use engage to secure the second leg to the goal-line end of the arm. The complementary interengaging formations provide means for fastening the base to the post members via the tubular elbow connector. As the legs are receivable within the other components, the exterior of the post member and the arm of the base do not comprise any joins, therefore reducing the risk of injury.

[0038] In one example, the first leg of the tubular elbow connector is configured to be receivable around the lower end of a post member, and the second leg of the tubular elbow connector is configured to be receivable around the goal-line end of the arm, such that the post interengaging formation and the first leg interengaging formation are configured to in use engage to secure the first leg to the lower end of the post member, and the arm interengaging formation and the second leg interengaging formation are configured to in use engage to secure the second leg to the goal-line end of the arm.

[0039] In one example, the first leg of the tubular elbow connector is configured to be receivable within the lower end of the post member, and the second leg of the tubular elbow connector is configured to be receivable around the goal-line end of the arm, such that the post interengaging formation and the first leg interengaging formation are configured to in use engage to secure the first leg to the lower end of the post member, and the arm interengaging formation and the second leg interengaging formation are configured to in use engage to secure the second leg to the goal-line end of the arm.

[0040] In one example, the first leg of the tubular elbow connector is configured to be receivable around the lower end of the post member, and the second leg of the tubular elbow connector is configured to be receivable within the goal-line end of the arm, such that the post interengaging formation and the first leg interengaging formation are configured to in use engage to secure the first leg to the lower end of the post member, and the arm interengaging formation and the second leg interengaging formation are configured to in use engage to secure the second leg to the goal-line end of the arm. In one example, the complementary interengaging formations are configured to have a locked configuration wherein the first leg is secured to the lower end of the post member, and the second leg is secured to the goal-line end of the arm and an unlocked configuration, wherein the first leg is decouplable from the lower end of the post member and the second leg is decouplable from the goal-line end of the arm. These two configurations enable the base and posts to remain securely coupled together in use, and enable the base and posts to be decoupled to disassemble the goal when not in use.

[0041] In one example, the locked configuration may be considered when the protrusion is received within the aperture. The unlocked configuration may be considered when the protrusion is not within the aperture.

[0042] In one example, the complementary interengaging formations, such as a protrusion and aperture, in use, are configured to adopt a resilient bias towards the locked configuration. This ensures that the base and posts remain securely coupled together in use, and do not decouple whilst in use.

[0043] In one example, the locked configuration is actuatable to the unlocked configuration upon depression of the protrusion. Therefore, force is necessary to enable depression of the protrusion, enabling the base and posts to remain securely coupled together in use, but allowing the base and posts to be decoupled for disassembly. Force applied by hand should be sufficient to suitably depress the protrusion.

[0044] Depression of the protrusion out of the aperture may be sufficient such that the protrusion no longer protrudes fully into the aperture. As such, the two component parts may be decoupled without the protrusion and aperture locking the two component parts together.

[0045] Decoupling may include depression of the protrusion and detachment of the two components, such as first leg of tubular elbow connector and lower end of the post member, or second leg of the tubular elbow connector and goal-line end of the arm. Detachment of the two components may be provided through a pulling force.

[0046] In one example, the base bar extends between the distal end of each arm. The base bar may extend perpendicularly between the distal ends of the arms of the base. The base bar may be the same diameter as the arms of the base. The base bar adds further stability and rigidity to the base.

[0047] In one example, the kit or goal comprises corner brackets configured for coupling an upper end of a post member to an end of the crossbar, or configured for coupling the distal end of the arm to the base bar. These provide means for assembling and securing the post members to the crossbar and distal end of the arm to the base bar.

[0048] In one example, the distal ends of each arm are coupled to the base bar using corner brackets. The corner brackets envisaged for use in this invention may be equivalent to the tubular elbow connector according to the third aspect, however the two arms would preferably be of the same cross-sectional diameter. The use of corner brackets securely couples each arm to the base bar.

[0049] In one example, the upper end of each post member is coupled to crossbar using a corner bracket. The corner brackets envisaged for use in this invention may be equivalent to the tubular elbow connector according to the third aspect, however the two arms would preferably be of the same cross-sectional diameter.

[0050] The kit or goal may comprise a plurality of corner brackets, such as two or more, three or more, or four or more corner brackets.

[0051] In one example, the goal for a ball sport comprises two supports, such as two support tubes. In use, each support tube is independently coupled to an upper end of the post member, and optionally extends all the way between an upper end of a post member and the distal end of an arm. These provide a support to the net such that it does not hang vertically from the crossbar.

[0052] In one example, the outer cross-sectional diameter of each support is smaller than the inner cross-sectional diameter of the arm, such that the support may be stored within the arm. This facilitates improved transportability and storage in comparison to existing goal assemblies.

[0053] In a first embodiment, in use, each support may be coupled to and extend between the upper end of a post member and the distal end of an arm of the base.

[0054] In the first embodiment, the distal end of each arm may comprise an aperture configured to receive a lower end of a support tube, and the corner bracket may comprise an overlaying aperture configured to permit passage of a lower end of a support tube into the aperture in the arm. This enables attachment of the support tube to the base, such that the support tube extends between the upper end of the post member and the distal end of the arm.

[0055] In the first embodiment, the upper end of each post member may comprise an aperture configured to receive an upper end of a support tube, and the corner bracket may comprise an overlaying aperture configured to permit passage of an upper end of a support tube into the aperture in the post member. This enables attachment of the support tube to the upper end of the post member, such that each support tube extends between the upper end of the post member and distal end of the arm.

[0056] Alternatively in a second embodiment, in use, each support may be coupled only to the upper end of the post member. In one example, a lower end of the support tube may be coupled to the upper end of the post member and an upper end of the support tube may be coupled to the upper end of the post member. This coupling may be described as a D shape, with the upright part of the D being the upper end of the post member.

[0057] In the second embodiment, the upper end of each post member may comprise a first aperture configured to receive an upper end of a support tube, and the corner bracket may comprise a first overlaying aperture configured to permit passage of an upper end of a support tube into the first aperture in the post member. This enables attachment of the upper end of the support tube to the upper end of the post member. The upper end of each post member additionally may comprise a second aperture configured to receive a lower end of a support tube, and the corner bracket may comprise a second overlaying aperture configured to permit passage of a lower end of a support tube into the second aperture in the post member. This enables attachment of the lower end of the support tube to the upper end of the post member. The first and second apertures may be spaced along the length of the upper end of the post member.

[0058] In both embodiments, each support has a smaller outer cross-sectional diameter than the inner cross-sectional diameter of an arm. Each support may comprise a plurality of tubular sections. In use, the plurality of sections may be coupled together to provide the support. When not in use, each support may be stored within an arm. Therefore, in one example of the invention, when not in use, each support is stored within an arm, and each arm is stored within a post member.

[0059] In one example, the first leg of the tubular elbow connector has a greater cross-sectional diameter than the second leg of the tubular elbow connector. As such, this means that the diameter of the arm is less than the diameter of the post member. Therefore, when not in use, it is possible for the arm of the base to be stored within the post member, facilitating improved transportability and storage in comparison to existing goal assemblies.

[0060] In one example, the step of coupling the first leg to the lower end of the post member comprises urging the first leg into the lower end of the post member, such that the complementary interengaging formations engage to secure the first leg to the lower end of the post member. This ensures that the first leg and the post member are securely coupled together.

[0061] In one example, the step of coupling the second leg to the goal-line end of the arm comprises urging the second leg into the goal-line end of the arm, such that the complementary interengaging formations engage to secure the second leg to the goal-line end of the arm. This ensures that the second leg and the arm are securely coupled together.

[0062] The tubular nature of the components means that the components for the goal are hollow. Therefore, each component is lightweight, and defines an internal space which may be utilised when not in use, such as when the goal is in a disassembled state.

[0063] In one example, the first leg may be oriented substantially perpendicular to the second leg. The orientation of each leg enables the goal, in use, to stand upright such that the post members extend perpendicularly to the ground.

[0064] In one example, a lower end of the first leg of the tubular elbow connector is pivotally mounted to a goal line end of the second leg of the tubular elbow connector. In use, the first leg may be pivoted such that it lies perpendicular to the second leg. The first leg may be locked in place perpendicularly to the second leg and secured in position to prevent pivotal rotation. Such securement may be provided using locking means such as a nut and bolt, screw and thread, and the like. When not in use, the locking means may be unlocked to enable pivotal rotation of the first and second legs.

[0065] The goal for a ball sport preferably comprises two tubular elbow connectors.

[0066] When the first leg and the lower end of the post member, and the second leg and the goal-line end of the arm, are securely coupled together, the complementary interengaging formations are in the locked configuration.

[0067] The net is configured for attachment to the post members, crossbar, base, and optionally the tubular supports, to enclose an opening between the two post members and the crossbar, such that in use, balls that pass beyond the opening are receivable by the net. The skilled person would be aware of suitable means for attaching the net to the post members, crossbar, and base. Examples may include hooks, clips, Velcro ®< , pegs and the like.

[0068] There is additionally provided a method of disassembling a goal for a ball sport, the method comprising: providing a goal for a ball sport, preferably according to the second aspect; actuation of the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration; and detaching the first leg of the tubular elbow connector from the lower end of the post member, and detaching the second leg of the tubular elbow connector from the goal-line end of the arm.

[0069] In one example, actuation from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration may comprise depression of the protrusion from the aperture.

[0070] In one example, the method of disassembling a goal further comprises detaching the net from the post members, crossbar, and base. This provides easier access to the post members, crossbar, and base for the user to continue disassembly.

[0071] In one example, the step of detaching the first leg of the tubular elbow connector from the lower end of the post member, and detaching the second leg of the tubular elbow connector from the goal-line end of the arm, comprises detachment by providing a pulling force.

[0072] In one example, the method of disassembling a goal further comprises detaching the crossbar from the post members.

[0073] In one example, the method of disassembling a goal for a ball sport further comprises placing an arm within a post member.

[0074] The goal for a ball sport may be used in sports such as football, futsal, hockey, lacrosse, handball, polo, water polo, shinty, and the like. The skilled person would be aware that the size of the ball used in the sport may be greater in diameter than the reticulations in the net. In a preferred example, the goal is for use in football or futsal.

[0075] A variety of sizes of football goal are available depending on the type of use, such as, recreational five-a-side football goal standards, with goal sizes typically with a width between 3.66 metres and 4.88 metres, and a height of 1.2 metres, or professional football goal standards, with a goal size typically of a width of 7.32 metres and a height of 2.44 metres, or amateur youth football goal standards, with goal sizes typically with a width between 3.66 metres and 6.4 metres, and a height between 1.83 metres and 2.13 metres.

[0076] The tubular components may comprise metals such as aluminium, or alloys such as steel. Alternatively, the tubular components may comprise polymeric materials, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Preferably, the tubular components comprise PVC.

[0077] The skilled person would understand that any reference to in use relates to the feature in the context of the assembled goal for a ball sport of the second aspect. As such, terms such as receivable in relation to the isolated feature are to be understood as received in relation to the assembled goal for a ball sport of the second aspect.Detailed Description List of Figures:

[0078] Fig. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a goal for a ball sport; Figs. 2a-b illustrate an embodiment of a tubular elbow connector for use in the goal; Fig. 3 illustrates a flow chart of a method of assembling the goal. Fig. 4 schematically illustrates a method of assembling the goal.

[0079] One or more examples of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0080] Fig. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a goal 100 for a ball sport. For ease of reference, only the parts on one side of the goal 100 have been labelled, but the references refer correspondingly to the parts on the other side of the goal 100. All the parts are preferably tubular. The various parts of the goal 100 have been illustrated as dividable into two or more sub-parts, but each part may also be in one piece, or divided into any number of sub-parts. Each part may also comprise one or more hinges, and thereby be foldable. However, in this disclosure the various parts of the goal 100 have been described as each being a one piece tubular component.

[0081] The goal 100 has two vertical post members 101, one positioned on either side of the goal 100. Each post member 101 has and upper end 101a and a lower end 101b. Each post member 100 has been illustrated as dividable into two sub-parts, but each post member 100 may in other embodiments be in one piece, or be dividable into any number of sub-parts.

[0082] The goal 100 also has a horizontal crossbar 102, coupled to and extending perpendicularly between the upper ends 101a of the vertical post members 101. The crossbar 102 has been illustrated as dividable into four sub-parts, but the crossbar 102 may in other embodiments be in one piece, or be dividable into any number of sub-parts.

[0083] The goal 100 further has a base 103, configured for being horizontal on the ground. The base 103 comprises two arms 105, extending from a base bar 104. Each arm 105 comprises a goal-line end 105a and a distal end 105b, which in use is connected to the base bar 104. The base bar 104 has been illustrated as dividable into four sub-parts, but the base bar 104 may in other embodiments be in one piece, or be dividable into any number of sub-parts.

[0084] Two tubular elbow connectors 200, each having a first leg 210 and a second leg 220, are used to each couple the goal-line end of an arm 105a to the lower end 101b of a post member, such that the arms 105a extend in a plane perpendicular to that defined by the post members 101 and the crossbar 102. The tubular elbow connectors 200 are illustrated in more detail in Figs. 2a-b.

[0085] Once assembled, the goal 100 will also have a net attached to the post members 101, crossbar 102 and base 103, to enclose an opening between the two post members 101 and the crossbar 102. In use, balls that pass beyond the opening will be receivable by the net.

[0086] The goal 100 may further have two supports 107, each coupled to and extending between the upper end 101a of a post member and the distal end of an arm 105b. The illustrated supports 107 extend all the way from the upper ends 101a of the post members to the distal ends 105b of the arms 105, but the supports 107 could alternatively just extend out from the upper end 101a of a post member, without being connected to the arms 105. The main purpose of the supports 107 is simply to ensure that the net does not hang straight down from the crossbar 102.

[0087] A number of corner brackets 250 are used for connecting the various parts of the goal 100 to each other. These corner brackets 250 may be of a similar type to the tubular elbow connectors 200. However, there may be a further leg extending from all or some of the corner brackets 250, for coupling to a support 107.

[0088] Figs. 2a-b illustrate a tubular elbow connector 200 comprising a first leg 210 and second leg 220, the first leg 210 couplable to the lower end 101b of a post member 101 and the second leg 220 couplable to goal-line end 105a of an arm 105, the first leg 210 and the lower end 101b of the post member 101 comprising complementary interengaging formations, and the second leg 220 and the goal-line end 105a of the arm 105 comprising complementary interengaging formations. The complementary interengaging formations in use securely couple the base 103 to the post members 101. The illustrated complementary interengaging formations are in the form of protrusions 230 on the tubular elbow connector 200, which are configured to be received by apertures in the lower end 101b of the post member 101 and the goal-line end 105a of the arm 105. However, if the first and / or second legs 210, 220 of the tubular elbow connector 200 are configured to receive the lower end 101b of the post member 101 and the goal-line end 105a of the arm 105, instead of being receivable within them, there may instead be apertures in the tubular elbow connector 200, and protrusions on the lower end 101b of the post member 101 and the goal-line end 105a of the arm 105. The complementary interengaging formations may also take other forms than protrusions and apertures, such as for example bayonet couplings or other types of twisting mountings.

[0089] Fig. 3 illustrates a flow chart of the method 300 of assembling the goal. In a first step 310, the crossbar 102 is coupled to the post members 101 using corner brackets 250. Then, in a second step 320, the first leg 210 of each tubular elbow connector 200 is securely coupled to the lower end 101b of a post member 101, and the second leg 220 of each tubular elbow connector 200 is securely coupled to the goal-line end 105a of an arm 105. Finally, in a third step 330, a net is attached to the post members 101, the crossbar 102, and the base 103.

[0090] In order to increase the portability of the goal 100 when disassembled, the different parts of the goal may be of different diameter, so that some parts of the goal are receivable within other parts of the goal during storage. The post may for example have one diameter, and a base component, such as an arm, have a different (for example smaller) diameter, so that one is receivable within the other when not in use. This enables one component to be stored within the other, enhancing both portability and storage capacity, as the disassembled goal occupies less space in comparison to the disassembled individual components.

[0091] As such, in a first particularly preferred example, there is provided a kit of parts for a goal 100, such as a football goal, the kit of parts comprising: two tubular post members 101, each independently comprising a first leg interengaging formation at a lower end 101b of the post member 101; a tubular crossbar 102; a tubular base 103 comprising two arms 105 and a base bar 104, wherein the two arms 105 are configured to extend from the base bar 104, each arm 105 independently comprising a second leg interengaging formation at a goal-line end 105a of the arm 105; two support tubes 107, in use coupled to an upper end 101a of a post member 101; at least two tubular elbow connectors 200, each comprising a first 210 and second 220 leg, the first leg 210 having a different cross-sectional diameter to the cross-sectional diameter of the second leg 220, wherein, in order to allow for a secure coupling of the base 203 to the post members 101: ∘ the first leg 210 comprises a post interengaging formation 230 complimentary to the first leg interengaging formation, the post interengaging formation configured to in use engage with the complementary first leg interengaging formation, and ∘ the second leg 220 comprises an arm interengaging formation 230 complimentary to the second leg interengaging formation, the arm interengaging formation configured to in use engage with the complementary second leg interengaging formation; and a net; wherein the post members 101 have a different cross-sectional diameter to the arms 105 of the base 103, to enable storage of one within the other; and wherein the post interengaging formation and arm interengaging formation are protrusions, and the first leg interengaging formation and second leg interengaging formations are apertures.

[0092] In a second particularly preferred example, there is provided a goal 100 for a ball sport, such as football, the goal 100 comprising the assembled kit of parts of the particularly preferred first example, wherein: the two post members 101 independently comprise upper 101a and lower 101b ends; the crossbar 102 is coupled to and extends perpendicularly between the upper ends 101a of the post members 101; two support tubes 107 are each independently coupled to the upper end 101a of a post member 101; the tubular elbow connectors 200 each securely couples the goal-line end 105a of an arm 105 to the lower end 101b of a post member 101, such that the arms 105 extend in a plane perpendicular to that defined by the post members 101 and the crossbar 102; and the net is attached to the post members 101, the crossbar 102, and the base 104, to enclose an opening between the two post members 101 and the crossbar 102, such that in use, balls that pass beyond the opening are receivable by the net;

[0093] The base 103 may be securely coupled to the post member 101 by: the protrusion on the exterior of the first leg 210 and the aperture in the lower end 101b of the post member 101 engaging, and the protrusion on the exterior of the second leg 220 and the aperture in the goal-line end 105a of the arm 105 engaging.

[0094] In a third particularly preferred example, there is provided a method 400 for assembling a goal for a ball sport, such as football, the method 400 comprising providing a kit of parts of the particularly preferred first example and assembling to provide the goal of the particularly preferred second example.

[0095] The method 400 of the third particularly preferred example may comprise: providing 410 a kit of parts of the first particularly preferred example; coupling 420 the crossbar 102 to the upper ends 101a of the post members 101; coupling 430 each support tube 107 independently to the upper end 101a of a post member 101; coupling 440 the first leg 210 of the tubular elbow connector 200 to the lower end 101b of the post member 100; and coupling 460 the second leg 220 of the tubular elbow connector 200 to the goal-line end 105a of the arm 105, such that the protrusion on the exterior of the first leg 210 and the aperture in the lower end 101b of the post member 101 engage, and the protrusion on the exterior of the second leg 220 and aperture in the goal-line end 105a of the arm 105 engage, to securely couple the base 103 to the post member 101; and attaching 480 a net to the post members 101, crossbar 102, and base 103, to enclose an opening between the two post members 101 and the crossbar 102, such that in use, balls that pass beyond the opening are receivable within the net.

[0096] Fig. 4 schematically illustrates the method 400 of assembling the goal.

[0097] It will be understood that the invention is not limited to the examples above-described and various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the concepts described herein. In the illustrated examples, the complementary interengaging formations comprise a protrusion and an aperture. However, any embodiment of complementary interengaging formations may be used. Except where mutually exclusive, any of the features may be employed separately or in combination with any other features and the disclosure extends to and includes all combinations and subcombinations of one or more features described herein.

Claims

1. A kit of parts for a goal for a ball sport, the kit comprising: • two tubular post members (101), each independently comprising a first leg interengaging formation at a lower end (101b) of the post member; • a tubular crossbar (102); • a tubular base (103) comprising two arms (105) and a base bar (104), wherein the two arms (105) are configured to in use extend from the base bar (104), each arm (105) independently comprising a second leg interengaging formation at a goal-line end (105a) of the arm (105); • at least two tubular elbow connectors (200), each comprising a first (210) and a second (220) leg, the first leg (210) having a different cross-sectional diameter to the cross-sectional diameter of the second leg (220), wherein, in order to allow for a secure coupling of the base (103) to the post members (101): ∘ the first leg (210) comprises a post interengaging formation (230) complimentary to the first leg interengaging formation, the post interengaging formation configured to in use engage with the complementary first leg interengaging formation, and ∘ the second leg (220) comprises an arm interengaging formation (230) complimentary to the second leg interengaging formation, the arm interengaging formation configured to in use engage with the complementary second leg interengaging formation; and • a net; wherein the post members (101) have a different cross-sectional diameter to the arms (105) of the base (103), to enable storage of one within the other.

2. The kit of claim 1, wherein the outer cross-sectional diameter of the arm (105) is smaller than the inner cross-sectional diameter of the post member (101), to enable storage of the arm (105) within the post member (101).

3. The kit of any one of the preceding claims, wherein both of: • the complementary post interengaging formation (230) and the first leg interengaging formation; and • the complementary arm interengaging formation (230) and the second leg interengaging formation; comprise a protrusion and an aperture.

4. The kit of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first leg (210) of the tubular elbow connector (200) is configured to be receivable within the lower end (101b) of a post member (101), and the second leg (220) of the tubular elbow connector (200) is configured to be receivable within the goal-line end (105a) of the arm (105), such that: • the post interengaging formation (230) and the first leg interengaging formation are configured to in use engage to secure the first leg (210) to the lower end (101b) of the post member (101); and • the arm interengaging formation (230) and the second leg interengaging formation are configured to in use engage to secure the second leg (220) to the goal-line end (105a) of the arm (105).

5. The kit of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the complementary interengaging formations are configured to have a locked configuration, wherein the first leg (210) is secured to the lower end (101b) of the post member (101), and the second leg (220) is secured to the goal-line end (105b) of the arm (105), and an unlocked configuration, wherein the first leg (210) is decouplable from the lower end (101b) of the post member (101), and the second leg (220) is decouplable from the goal-line end (105a) of the arm (105).

6. The kit of claim 5, wherein in use, the complementary interengaging formations are configured to adopt a resilient bias towards the locked configuration.

7. The kit of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a plurality of corner brackets (250), each configured for coupling an upper end (101a) of a post member (101) to an end of the crossbar (102), or for coupling a distal end (105b) of an arm (105) to the base bar (104).

8. The kit of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising two support tubes (107), each configured to in use couple to an upper end (101a) of a post member (101), and optionally extending between an upper end (101a) of a post member (101) and a distal end (105b) of an arm (105).

9. The kit of claim 8, wherein the outer cross-sectional diameter of each support (107) is smaller than the inner cross-sectional diameter of the arm (105), such that the support (107) may be stored within the arm (105).

10. The kit of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first leg (210) of the tubular elbow connector (200) has a greater cross-sectional diameter than the second leg (220) of the tubular elbow connector (200).

11. A goal for a ball sport, the goal comprising the assembled kit of parts according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein: - the two post members (101) independently comprise upper (101a) and lower (101b) ends; - the crossbar is coupled to and extends perpendicularly between the upper ends (101a) of the post members (101); - each tubular elbow connector (200) securely couples the goal-line end (105a) of an arm (105) to the lower end (101b) of the post member (101), such that the arms (105) extend in a plane perpendicular to that defined by the post members (101) and the crossbar (102); and - the net is attached to the post members (101), crossbar (102), and base (104), to enclose an opening between the two post members (101) and the crossbar (102), such that in use, balls that pass beyond the opening are receivable by the net; wherein the base (103) is securely coupled to the post member (101) by: - the complementary first leg and post interengaging formations engaging, and - the complementary second leg and arm interengaging formations engaging.

12. A tubular elbow connector (200) configured for use in a goal according to claim 11.

13. A method (400) of assembling a goal for a ball sport according to claim 11, the method comprising: - providing (410) a kit of parts of any one of claims 1-10; - coupling (420) the crossbar (102) to the upper ends (101a) of the post members (101); - coupling (440) the first leg (210) of the tubular elbow connector (200) to the lower end (101b) of the post member (100); and - coupling (460) the second leg (220) of the tubular elbow connector (200) to the goal-line end (105a) of the arm (105), such that the complementary first leg and post interengaging formations engage, and complementary second leg and arm interengaging formations engage, to securely couple the base (103) to the post member (101); and - attaching (480) a net to the post members (101), crossbar (102), and base (103) to enclose an opening between the post members (101) and the crossbar (102), such that in use, balls that pass beyond the opening are receivable within the net.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the step of coupling (440) the first leg (210) to the lower end (101b) of the post member (101) comprises urging (450) the first leg (210) into the lower end (101b) of the post member (101), such that the complementary first leg and post interengaging formations engage to secure the first leg (210) to the lower end (101b) of the post member (101).

15. The method of claim 13 or 14, wherein the step of coupling (460) the second leg (220) to the goal-line end (105a) of the arm (105) comprises urging (470) the second leg (220) into the goal-line end (105a) of the arm (105), such that the complementary second leg and arm interengaging formations engage to secure the second leg (220) to the goal-line end (105a) of the arm (105).

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