A transportable wheel assembly for a goal for a ball sport

Abstract

A transportable wheel assembly (100) for a goal for a ball sport, the transportable wheel assembly comprising: • a bracket (102) configured for attachment of the transportable wheel assembly to a base component of a goal (104); • a wheel mounting (106) coupled to a wheel (108); wherein the wheel mounting (106) is rotatably coupled to the bracket (102) such that in use, rotation of the wheel mounting (106) relative to the bracket (102) enables actuation of the wheel position between a lowered position, in which the wheel (108) in use is positioned lower than the base component of a goal (104) such that the goal is supported by the wheel (108) and may be transported; and a raised position in which the wheel (108) in use is positioned at least level with the base component (104) such that the goal is supported by the base component (104).

Description

Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a transportable wheel assembly for a goal for a ball sport, a kit comprising the transportable wheel assembly, and a goal comprising the transportable wheel assembly.Background

[0002] Goals for ball sports, such as football goals commonly comprise a crossbar, posts, base, and net. Commonly, the crossbar, posts, and base are tubular, the shape of which may vary depending on the goal type.

[0003] The base components of a goal usually comprises two base arms, each independently coupled at a goal-line end to the base of the posts, and a crosspiece extending between a distal end of the two base arms.

[0004] These goals often need to be moved around, for example to alter sports pitch length and moved for storage. One such method of allowing goals to be moved around utilises wheels attached to the base of the goal.

[0005] It is recognised that it is beneficial for these wheels to lie below the base of the goal such that the goal can be moved around, and for these wheels to be held level with or above the base of the goal such that the goal can be supported by the base whilst the goal is in use.Summary

[0006] Existing wheel assemblies have certain limitations in that they are designed in such a manner that they may only be used with a certain shapes of goal bases, such as a single width of goal base. As such, one type of wheel assembly may only be used with a specific type of goal, thus necessitating the use of multiple wheel assemblies for different types of goals.

[0007] It has been recognised by the present inventors that there is a requirement for a transportable wheel system that enables goals to be moved around with the wheel in a lowered position, and safely stored with the wheel in a raised position wherein the base components of the goal support the goal frame.

[0008] In a first aspect, there is provided a transportable wheel assembly for a goal for a ball sport, the transportable wheel assembly comprising: a bracket configured for attachment of the transportable wheel assembly to a base component of a goal; a wheel mounting coupled to a wheel; wherein the wheel mounting is rotatably coupled to the bracket such that in use, rotation of the wheel mounting relative to the bracket enables actuation of the wheel position between a lowered position, in which the wheel in use is positioned lower than the base component of a goal such that the goal is supported by the wheel and may be transported; and a raised position in which the wheel in use is positioned at least level with the base component such that the goal is supported by the base component.

[0009] In use, when the bracket is attached to a goal base component, the user can easily move the goal around whilst the wheel is in the lowered position. Where the user wishes to set the goal onto the ground, this is possible upon actuation of the wheel to the raised position. The wheel assembly therefore provides an effective means of transporting a goal for a ball sport.

[0010] In a second aspect, there is provided a transportable wheel assembly for a goal for a ball sport, the transportable wheel assembly comprising: a bracket configured for attachment of the transportable wheel assembly to a base component of a goal, the bracket comprising a first handle; a wheel mounting coupled to a wheel, the wheel mounting comprising a second handle; wherein the wheel mounting is rotatably coupled to the bracket such that in use, the first handle is configured to be gripped by the user to lift the wheel assembly and the second handle is configured to be gripped and rotated such that the wheel mounting is rotated relative to the bracket to enable actuation of the wheel position between a lowered position, in which the wheel in use is positioned lower than the base component of a goal such that the goal is supported by the wheel and may be transported; and a raised position in which the wheel in use is positioned at least level with the base component such that the goal is supported by the base component.

[0011] In use, when the bracket is attached to a goal base component, the user can simply lift a portion of the goal base component using the first handle and use the second handle to rotate the wheel mounting to actuate the wheel position between the raised and the lowered position. Relatively little rotational stress may be placed on the components of the transportable wheel assembly. Therefore, for example, the wheel assembly may be particularly durable.

[0012] In implementations, the first handle and the second handle enable the wheel to be actuatable between the lowered position enabling transportation of the goal, and a raised position in which the wheel is safely stored such that the goal may be used.

[0013] In particular, the present inventors have identified the need for such a transportable wheel system wherein the wheel system may be adaptable, enabling use with a variety of different goals.

[0014] In a third aspect, there is provided a transportable wheel assembly for a goal for a ball sport, the transportable wheel assembly comprising: a bracket configured for attachment of the transportable wheel assembly to a base component of a goal, the bracket comprising an upper jaw spaced apart from a lower jaw, wherein the perpendicular distance between the jaws is adjustable such that in use, the base component is clamped therebetween; a wheel mounting coupled to a wheel; wherein the wheel mounting is rotatably coupled to the bracket such that in use, rotation of the wheel mounting relative to the bracket enables actuation of the wheel position between a lowered position, in which the wheel in use is positioned lower than the base component of a goal such that the goal is supported by the wheel and may be transported; and a raised position in which the wheel in use is positioned at least level with the base component such that the goal is supported by the base component.

[0015] The adjustable nature of the coupling of the bracket to the goal base enables the bracket to be used with a variety of different goal bases. Therefore, for example, the transportable wheel assembly may be versatile.

[0016] In one example, the perpendicular distance between the jaws is adjustable using a fastener coupled to and extending between the upper and lower jaws. The fastener may be a threaded fastener coupled to and extending between the upper and lower jaws. The threaded nature of the fastener enables rotation of the fastener in a first direction, such as a clockwise direction to reduce the perpendicular distance between the upper and lower jaws. The fastener may remain in place once rotated such that the perpendicular distance between the upper and lower jaws remains the same. The threaded fastener enables rotation of the fastener in a second direction, such as an anticlockwise direction, to increase the perpendicular distance between the upper and lower jaws. Alternatively, the fastener may be a non-threaded fastener coupled to and extending between the upper and lower jaws. Where a non-threaded fastener is used, there may be a fixing means provided, such as a clip or a pin. The clip or pin may be fixable to the non-threaded fastener at different points along the length of the non-threaded fastener to prevent the perpendicular upper and lower jaws from being adjusted. The clip or pin may be detachable to the non-threaded fastener to allow the perpendicular distance between the upper and lower jaws to be altered. The adjustable nature of the upper and lower jaws enables the wheel assembly to be clamped to a variety of different goal bases.

[0017] When in use, the perpendicular distance between the upper and lower jaws may be from 20mm to 150mm, such as from 40mm to 150mm, or 60mm to 150mm.

[0018] When in use, the perpendicular distance between the upper and lower jaws may be from 20mm to 150mm, such as from 20mm to 130mm, 20mm to 110mm, or 20mm to 90mm.

[0019] When in use, the perpendicular distance between the upper and lower jaws may be from 20mm to 150mm, such as from 40mm to 130mm, or 60mm to 110mm.

[0020] The skilled person would understand that the perpendicular distance between the upper and lower jaws may be selected such that the upper and lower jaws clamp the goal base component therebetween.

[0021] In one example, the transportable wheel assembly comprises a first fastener coupled to and extending between an inner end of the upper and lower jaws and a second fastener coupled to and extending between an outer end of the upper and lower jaws such that in use, the base component of the goal is clamped between the upper and lower jaws and fasteners. This arrangement ensures that the goal base component is securely clamped between the upper and lower jaws.

[0022] The threaded fastener may be complimentary to a threaded receiver such that the fastener is movable with respect to the threaded receiver. Movement of the fastener with respect to the threaded receiver may adjust the perpendicular distance between the upper and lower jaw.

[0023] The threaded receiver may be an aperture in the upper and / or lower jaw. The threaded fastener may pass through an aperture in the upper and lower jaws and into an external threaded receiver.

[0024] The threaded receiver may be a threaded recess in the upper and / or lower jaw. The threaded fastener may pass through an aperture in the upper jaw and into a threaded recess in the lower jaw. The threaded fastener may pass through an aperture in the lower jaw and into the threaded recess in the upper jaw.

[0025] The threaded fastener may be a bolt, screw, and the like. The external threaded receiver may be a nut, such as a wing nut.

[0026] In one example, the transportable wheel assembly comprises a plurality of first fasteners coupled to and extending between an inner end of the upper and lower jaws and a plurality of second fasteners coupled to and extending between an outer end of the upper and lower jaws. Use of a plurality of fasteners provides additional securement to the clamping of the goal base between the upper and lower jaws.

[0027] Where there are a plurality of first and / or second fasteners, it will be understood that a plurality of apertures, recesses and / or external threaded receivers may be required. Each fastener of the plurality of fasteners may interact with a single aperture, recess and / or external threaded receiver of the plurality of apertures, recesses and / or external threaded receivers.

[0028] The bracket may be formed of upper and lower jaws that independently extend from the bracket at first ends and terminate at second ends. The first end may be the inner end of the jaw. The second end may be the outer end of the jaw.

[0029] The bracket may comprise a sidepiece. The upper and lower jaws may independently extend from the sidepiece. The upper and lower jaws may be coupled to the sidepiece at first ends and terminate at seconds ends. At least one of the jaws may be slidably coupled to the sidepiece, and as such may be movable along the length of the sidepiece relative to the other jaw. The slidable coupling of at least one of the jaws to the sidepiece may enable the perpendicular distance between the upper and lower jaws to be altered.

[0030] The skilled person would understand the shape of each jaw may be complementary to the outer profile of the goal base component. For example, where the goal base component is cylindrical, the upper and / or lower jaw may be curved, such as semicircular, to be complementary to the cylindrical outer profile of the goal base component. Where the goal base component is cuboidal, the upper and / or lower jaw may be U-shaped to be complementary to the cuboidal outer profile of the goal base component. The upper and lower jaws together in use may engage a portion, such as up to half of, half of, more than half of, or the majority of, of the circumference or perimeter of the goal base component. The upper and lower jaws may abut at their second ends to entirely enclose the circumference of the goal base component.

[0031] In implementations, the bracket is a collar comprising the upper and lower jaw. The diameter of the collar may be adjustable. The diameter of the collar may be adjustable such that the perpendicular distance between the jaws is adjustable.

[0032] The first ends of the upper and lower jaw may be releasably securable. The second ends of the upper and lower jaw may be releasably securable. One end of the upper and lower jaws may be releasably securable, and the other end may be hinged together. The goal base component, such as the crosspiece or arm, is thereby clamped by the upper and lower jaws, for example in the form of a collar, to provide additional securement of the wheel assembly to the goal base.

[0033] In implementations, the perpendicular distance between the upper and lower jaw is releasably securable, in use enabling the bracket to be coupled to the base of a goal. The releasable securable nature enables the bracket to be coupled to the base of a goal in use, but enables the bracket to be removable from the base of goal when not in use, for example when removing the assembly to be attached to another goal.

[0034] The transportable wheel assembly of the first or third aspects may additionally comprise a first and / or second handle. The handle may assist the user in actuating the wheel between the raised and lowered positions. The handle may be the first handle where the wheel assembly comprises a first handle and a second handle. The handle may be the first handle where the wheel assembly comprises a lever.

[0035] In one example, the first handle comprises a first end and a second end, each independently coupled to the bracket; and / or the second handle comprises a first end and a second end, each independently coupled to the wheel mounting.

[0036] In one example, the first handle extends from an upwardly facing surface of the bracket; and / or the second handle extends from an upwardly facing surface of the wheel mounting.

[0037] The first handle and / or the second handle may include one or more suitable materials, including one or more metals and / or metallic alloys, such as steel, and / or one or more polymeric materials such as nylon, rubbers, silicones, and polyurethanes.

[0038] The second handle may be configured such that in use, rotation of the second handle with respect to the bracket enables actuation of the wheel position between the lowered and raised positions. The second handle may be configured such that in use, rotation of the second handle with respect to the bracket through 45° or more, such as 90, 100, 120, 140, or 180° or more in a clockwise or anticlockwise direction enables actuation of the wheel position between the lowered and raised positions. For example, in use, rotation of the second handle with respect to the bracket through 90° in a clockwise or anticlockwise direction enables actuation of the wheel position between the lowered and raised positions. The second handle may be rotatable whilst the first handle remains stationary.

[0039] In use, the user may grasp the first handle with the goal base component clamped within the bracket and raise the goal from the ground. With their free hand, the user may then rotate the second handle, for example through 90° in a clockwise or anticlockwise direction, to enable actuation of the wheel position between a lowered and raised position.

[0040] The first handle and the second handle may each be configured to enable a user to grip said handle. In implementations, the first and second handles may be independently selected from configurations that are substantially C, D, or U shaped. As such, the shape of the one or more of the handles may enable the user to grip one handle with one hand.

[0041] The first handle may be coupled to the bracket such that the second handle extends from, optionally perpendicularly from, one or more surfaces of the bracket. The first handle may be coupled to the upper jaw of the bracket such that the first handle extends from, optionally perpendicularly from, the upper jaw of the bracket. The first handle may be coupled to an upwardly facing surface of the upper jaw such that the first handle extends from, optionally perpendicularly from, the upwardly facing surface of the upper jaw. The first handle may be coupled to a lateral face of the upper jaw such that the first handle extends from, optionally perpendicularly from, the lateral face of the upper jaw.

[0042] The first handle may comprise a first end and a second end, both of which are coupled to the bracket, for example such that the first handle has no free ends. The first handle may comprise a first end and a second end, both of which are coupled to the upper jaw of the bracket. The first handle may comprise a first end and a second end, both of which are coupled to a surface of the or a upper jaw, e.g., the upper surface of the upper jaw. The first handle may comprise a first end and a second end, both of which are coupled to a surface of the upper jaw, e.g. the or a lateral surface of the upper jaw. The first and second ends of the first handle may be coupled to different surfaces of the bracket or a part thereof, e.g. the upper jaw. The first end may be coupled to an upper surface of the upper jaw and the second end may be coupled to a lateral surface of the upper jaw.

[0043] The second handle may be coupled to the wheel mounting such that the second handle extends from, optionally perpendicularly from, one or more surfaces of the wheel mounting. The second handle may extend from, optionally perpendicularly from, an upwardly facing surface of the wheel mounting. The second handle may extend from, optionally perpendicularly from, a lateral face of the wheel mounting.

[0044] The second handle may comprise a first end and a second end, both of which are coupled to the wheel mounting, for example such that the second handle has no free ends. Both the first and second ends of the second handle may be coupled to a surface of the wheel mounting, e.g., the or an upwardly facing surface of the wheel mounting. Both the first and second ends of the second handle may be coupled to the or a lateral surface of the wheel mounting. The first and second ends of the second handle may be coupled to different surfaces of the wheel mounting, e.g., the first end may be coupled to an upwardly facing surface of the wheel mounting and the second end may be coupled to a lateral surface of the wheel mounting.

[0045] In one example, in the transportable wheel assembly of the first and / or third aspect the wheel mounting comprises a lever, such that in use the lever is gripped and rotated to rotate the wheel mounting relative to the bracket to enable actuation between the lowered and raised positions.

[0046] In one example, the bracket comprises a handle. The handle may be the first handle where the wheel assembly comprises a lever.

[0047] The lever enables the wheel to be actuatable between the lowered position enabling transportation of the goal, and a raised position in which the wheel is safely stored such that the goal may be used.

[0048] In implementations, the lever and cross section of the wheel lie in the same plane. As the lever and cross section of the wheel lie in the same plane, the user may easily actuate the wheel position between the raised and lowered positions.

[0049] In implementations, the lever is releasably securable in either the raised position or lowered position. This ensures that the lever does not move around whilst in use such that the wheel remains in the raised position or lowered position.

[0050] The lever may be detachable from the wheel mounting. This enables the lever to be stored elsewhere, thus reducing risk of injury to users. The lever may therefore comprise a detachable coupling for the lever to the wheel mounting. Such detachable coupling may include male and female components, magnetic couplings, and the like.

[0051] In one example, the bracket comprises a receptacle for the lever, such that the lever may be stored when the wheel assembly is in the raised or lowered position. The receptacle may be a recess suitable for receiving the lever, clip, magnetic coupling and the like. The receptacle safely stores the lever, thus reducing risk of injury to users.

[0052] In one example, the bracket and wheel mounting comprise a releasably securable locking mechanism, to in use prevent rotational movement of the wheel mounting relative to the bracket. The locking mechanism prevents movement of the wheel mounting relative to the bracket. This is particularly useful when the wheel is in either the raised or lowered positions.

[0053] In one example, the locking mechanism comprises a male and female component resiliently biased to matingly engage. The resilient bias provided ensures that the male and female components remain locked together when in use. The male and female components may be disengaged by the user to unlock the components.

[0054] In implementations, the wheel mounting may be releasably securable using the locking mechanism in either the raised position and / or lowered position. This ensures that the wheel mounting does not move around whilst in use such that the wheel remains in the raised position or lowered position.

[0055] The wheel mounting may be releasably securable in either the raised position or lowered position, for example using an aperture and protrusion as the male and female components. The wheel mounting may be secured in either the raised or lowered position when the protrusion is received within the aperture and prevents rotational movement of the wheel mounting relative to the bracket. The wheel mounting may enable actuation between the raised and lowered positions when the protrusion is not within the aperture and is rotationally coupled relative to the bracket.

[0056] The protrusion may be resiliently biased, for example using a spring, towards the protrusion being received within the aperture. In this example, the user may actuate the protrusion out of the aperture against the resilient bias such that rotational movement of the wheel mounting relative to the bracket is enabled.

[0057] The protrusion may be defined by the wheel mounting and the aperture defined by the bracket. In this example, there may be a single protrusion defined by the wheel mounting and a first and a second aperture defined by the bracket. The first aperture and second aperture may be positioned in the bracket along an arc of rotation of the wheel mounting with respect to the bracket. The positioning of the first aperture may be such that when the protrusion is received in the first aperture, the wheel may be secured in the raised position. The positioning of the second aperture may be such that when the protrusion is received in the second aperture, the wheel may be secured in the lowered position.

[0058] Alternatively, the protrusion may be defined by the bracket and the aperture defined by the wheel mounting. In this example, there may be a single aperture defined by the wheel mounting and a first protrusion and a second protrusion defined by the bracket. The first protrusion and second protrusion may be positioned on the bracket along an arc of rotation of the wheel mounting with respect to the bracket. The positioning of the first protrusion may be such that when the first protrusion is received in the aperture, the wheel may be secured in the raised position. The positioning of the second protrusion may be such that when the second protrusion is received in the aperture, the wheel may be secured in the lowered position.

[0059] In one example, the transportable wheel assembly further comprises a padding layer on the external exposed section of the wheel and / or bracket. The padding layer protects both the assembly from repeated impact from the ball of the ball sport. Furthermore, when the ball is prone to punctures, the padding layer reduces the likelihood of punctures occurring.

[0060] In a fourth aspect, there is provided a kit of parts comprising at least one transportable wheel assembly of the first, second, or third aspects, and a goal for a ball sport. The benefits associated with the wheel assembly disclosed herein may be achieved when the wheel it utilised alongside the goal for a ball sport.

[0061] The kit may comprise a plurality of transportable wheel assemblies. The transportable wheel assemblies enable a plurality of wheels to be coupled to the base components of a goal such that the goal may be movable. For example, the kit may comprise two or more wheel assemblies, such as three or more wheel assemblies, or four or more wheel assemblies. These may be attached to the base arm and / or the base crosspiece to support and / or enable stable transportation of the goal.

[0062] In a fifth aspect, there is provided a goal for a ball sport comprising two base arms, each independently coupled at a goal-line end to the base of two posts; a crosspiece extending between a distal end of the two base arms; and at least one transportable wheel assembly of the first, second, or third aspects coupled to a base arm or crosspiece. The benefits associated with the wheel assembly disclosed herein may be achieved in the goal for a ball sport.

[0063] The goal may comprise a transportable wheel assembly on each base arm. The goal may comprise a transportable wheel assembly on each base arm and a transportable wheel assembly on the crosspiece. The goal may comprise a plurality of transportable wheel assemblies on each base arm. The goal may comprise a transportable wheel assembly on each base arm and a plurality of transportable wheel assemblies on the crosspiece. The goal may comprise a plurality of transportable wheel assemblies on each base arm and a plurality of transportable wheel assemblies on the crosspiece.

[0064] Where the goal comprises a plurality of transportable wheel assemblies on the base component of the goal, the skilled person would understand that these may be spaced out in intervals along the base component of the goal.

[0065] In implementations, the bracket further comprises an anti-rotation mechanism, in use preventing rotational movement of the upper and lower jaws with respect to the base of the goal. This may prevent lateral movement of the upper and lower jaws and ensures securement of the wheel assembly to the goal base.

[0066] In implementations, the anti-rotation mechanism comprises a base engaging formation that in use, is complementary to a jaw engaging formation on the base component of the goal and engages with the jaw engaging formation to thereby prevent movement of the upper and lower jaw with respect to the base of the goal. The jaw engaging formation and base engaging formation interlock to prevent lateral movement of the upper and lower jaws and ensure securement of the wheel assembly to the goal base component.

[0067] The base engaging formation may be a protrusion, such as a protrusion on an internal face of the jaw. The protrusion may be along a width of a jaw. The protrusion may be along a length of the jaw. The protrusion may be a ridge along the width of a jaw. The protrusion may be a ridge along the length of a jaw.

[0068] The jaw engaging formation may be a recess, or an aperture in the external surface of the base component. The recess or aperture may be along the width of the base component. The recess of aperture may be along a length of the base component. The recess may be a groove along the length of the base component, such as a groove along the length of a base arm or a groove along the length of a base crosspiece. The recess may be a groove along width of a base arm or a groove along the width of a base crosspiece.

[0069] The protrusion, such as a ridge, along the width of a jaw may be complimentary to the recess or aperture, such as a groove, along the length of the base. In use, these components may interlock to prevent rotational movement of the jaw with respect to the base of the goal.

[0070] The wheel mounting may comprise a fork comprising two free ends, the fork extending from a centrepiece and an axle coupled to and extending between the free ends of the fork. The wheel may be rotationally coupled to the axle to enable rotational movement of the wheel relative to the fork. The centrepiece may define the coupling between the bracket and wheel mounting.

[0071] The bracket enables the wheel assembly to be securely clamped to the base of the goal. For example, in implementations where the bracket comprises jaws, the jaws may straddle a portion of the goal base component and clamp the wheel assembly to the goal base.

[0072] In implementations where the bracket is bracket comprises jaws, the perpendicular distance between the upper and lower jaws is adjustable, such that the wheel assembly may be clamped to a variety of different goal bases. The bracket may enable the wheel assembly to be clamped to an arm of the base. The bracket may enable the wheel assembly to be clamped to the crosspiece of the base. The bracket may be configured to enable the wheel assembly to be clamped to a cylindrical goal base component. The bracket may be configured to enable the wheel assembly to be clamped to a cuboidal goal base component.

[0073] As the base of a goal comprises two base arms and crosspiece, the lowered position may be considered where the wheel is lower than the plane comprising the two base arms and crosspiece; and the raised position may be considered where the wheel is at least level with the plane comprising the two base arms and crosspiece.

[0074] In implementations, the wheel is a swivel castor wheel coupled to the wheel mounting, in use enabling 360° rotation of the wheel about a vertical axis. The swivel castor wheel enables the goal to be movable in any direction.

[0075] A swivel castor wheel may be considered a wheel carrier pivotally mounted on an associated holder for pivoting movement around a horizontal axis perpendicular to the plane defined by the base components of the goal.

[0076] The wheel assembly may be clamped to the base component such that the wheel lies outside of the area enclosed by the base arms and crosspiece. The wheel assembly may be clamped to the base component such that the wheel lies inside the area enclosed by the base arms and crosspiece. In either case, the 360° rotation of the wheel about a vertical axis may be such that the wheel partially lies within the area enclosed by the base arms and crosspiece and partially lies outside the area enclosed by the base arms and crosspiece.

[0077] In one example, the transportable wheel assembly comprises a padding layer, such as a dense foam layer, on at least a portion of the external exposed section of the wheel and / or bracket. The padding layer may be provided as a single piece. Alternatively, the padding layer may comprise a plurality of different sections, each covering a portion of the external exposed section of the wheel and / or bracket. Exemplary foam padding may include rigid polyethylene, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer, and the like.

[0078] The thickness of the padding layer may be 2 inches (5.08 cm) or less, such as 1 inch (2.54 cm) or less, or ½ inch (1.27 cm) or less. The thickness of the padding layer may be ½ inch (1.27cm) or more, such as 1 inch (2.54cm) or more, or 2 inches (5.08 cm) or more. The thickness of the padding layer may be from 0.01 inches to 2 inches (0.025cm to 5.08cm), ½ inch to 2 inches (1.27cm to 5.08cm), or 1 to 2 inches (2.54cm to 5.08cm).

[0079] Existing wheel assemblies are often exposed whilst the goal is in use. Repeated impact of the ball from the ball sport on the wheel assembly has several disadvantages. For example, repeated impact of the ball on the wheel assembly may cause damage to the wheel assembly, necessitating replacement of the whole, or part of the wheel assembly when such damage is irreparable. Depending on the ball used, this may also damage the ball, for example by increasing the likelihood of punctures. Through use of a padding layer, such as a foam layer, on the external part of the wheel assembly, the likelihood of such damage is significantly reduced, thereby increasing longevity of the wheel assembly and / or ball used with the goal.

[0080] In implementations, the goal for a ball sport comprises a base component comprising jaw engaging formations that in use engage with the base engaging formation on the bracket of the transportable wheel assembly to thereby prevent rotational movement of the upper and lower jaw with respect to the base of the goal. The jaw engaging formation and base engaging formation may interlock to prevent lateral movement of the upper and lower jaws and ensure securement of the wheel assembly to the goal base.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] The bracket may comprise metals and / or metallic alloys, such as steel. This material may be resilient enough to enable clamping of the wheel assembly to the base component of a goal.

[0084] The tyre or outer part of the wheel may comprise rubber, such as natural rubber, synthetic rubber, latex rubber and the like. These materials may provide slip resistance and elasticity to the wheel.

[0085] An aspect provides a transportable wheel assembly for a goal for a ball sport, the transportable wheel assembly comprising: a wheel; a bracket coupled to the wheel and defining: ∘ a clamping arrangement configured for attachment of the bracket to a base component of a goal, the clamping arrangement comprising an upper jaw substantially parallel to a lower jaw, wherein the perpendicular distance between the jaws is adjustable such that in use, the base component is clamped therebetween; and ∘ a lever mechanism enabling actuation of the wheel position relative to the clamping arrangement between a lowered position, in which the wheel in use is positioned lower than the goal base component such that the goal is supported by the wheel and may be transported; and a raised position, in which the wheel in use is positioned at least level with the goal base component such that the goal is supported by the base.

[0086] The perpendicular distance between the jaws may be adjustable using a threaded fastener coupled to and extending between the upper and lower jaws.

[0087] The transportable wheel assembly may comprise a first fastener coupled to and extending between an inner end of the upper and lower jaws and a second fastener coupled to and extending between an outer end of the upper and lower jaws such that in use, the base component of the goal is clamped between the upper and lower jaws and fasteners; optionally wherein the transportable wheel assembly comprises a plurality of first fasteners coupled to and extending between an inner end of the upper and lower jaws and a plurality of second fasteners coupled to and extending between an outer end of the upper and lower jaws.

[0088] The clamping arrangement may be a collar comprising the upper and lower jaw, optionally wherein the diameter of the collar is adjustable.

[0089] The perpendicular distance between the upper and lower jaw may be releasably securable, in use enabling the bracket to be coupled to the base of a goal.

[0090] The clamping arrangement may further comprise a locking mechanism, in use preventing rotational movement of the upper and lower jaws with respect to the base of the goal.

[0091] The locking mechanism may comprise a base engaging formation that in use, is complementary to a jaw engaging formation on the base of the goal and engages with the jaw engaging formation to thereby prevent movement of the upper and lower jaw with respect to the base of the goal.

[0092] The lever mechanism may comprise a lever and wheel mounting, the wheel mounting defining the coupling of the bracket to the wheel such that the lever and cross section of the wheel lie in the same plane.

[0093] The wheel mounting may be rotatably coupled to the clamping arrangement such that urging of the lever enables actuation of the wheel position between the lowered position and the raised position.

[0094] The lever mechanism may be releasably securable in either the raised or lowered position. The lever may be detachable from the lever mechanism.

[0095] The bracket may comprise a receptacle for the lever, such that the lever may be stored when the wheel assembly is in the raised position.

[0096] The wheel may be a swivel castor wheel coupled to the wheel mounting, in use enabling 360° rotation of the wheel about a vertical axis.

[0097] The transportable wheel assembly may further comprise a padding layer on the external exposed section of the wheel and / or bracket.

[0098] A kit of parts may comprise: at least one, e.g. at least two, transportable wheel assemblies according to the present disclosure; and a goal for a ball sport.

[0099] The goal for a ball sport may comprise a base component comprising jaw engaging formations that in use engage with the base engaging formation on the clamping arrangement of the transportable wheel assembly to thereby prevent rotational movement of the upper and lower jaw with respect to the base of the goal.

[0100] The person skilled in the art will appreciate that except where mutually exclusive, a feature described in relation to any one of the above aspects may be applied mutatis mutandis to any other aspect. Furthermore, except where mutually exclusive and feature described herein may be applied to any aspect and / or combined with any other feature described herein.Detailed Description List of Figures

[0101] Figure 1 is a cross sectional view of the wheel assembly in a lowered position; Figure 2 is a side view of the wheel assembly of Figure 1 in a raised position; Figure 3 is a side view of the wheel assembly of Figures 1 and 2 in a raised position with the lever stored in a receptacle on the bracket; Figure 4 is a side view of the wheel assembly of Figures 1, 2, and 3 in a lowered position; Figure 5 is a side view of an example of an alternative wheel assembly in the lowered position; Figure 6 shows the kit comprising the wheel assembly and a goal; and Figure 7 shows a goal comprising the wheel assembly

[0102] One or more examples of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings. The below description is indicative of illustrated components only. Unless explicitly mentioned as an alternative, any combination of illustrated components is envisaged.

[0103] Fig 1 of the accompanying drawings illustrates a cross-sectional view of the wheel assembly 100 in a lowered position. The wheel assembly 100 depicts bracket 102. The bracket 102 enables the wheel assembly 100 to be attached to a base component of a goal 104, which may be a base arm and / or a crosspiece.

[0104] The wheel assembly 100 has a wheel mounting 106, coupled to a wheel 108. The depicted wheel mounting in Fig 1 is a fork, allowing for rotation of the wheel 108. In the lowered position, it can be seen that the wheel mounting 106 is perpendicular to the base component of a goal 104.

[0105] The wheel mounting 106 is coupled to the bracket 102. This coupling is a rotatable coupling, and enables the wheel mounting 106 and wheel 108 to rotate relative to the bracket 102. The rotatable coupling of the wheel mounting 106 and bracket 102 enables the wheel 108 to be actuated between the lowered position and the raised position.

[0106] The bracket 102 depicts an upper jaw 118 and a lower jaw 120. The upper jaw 118 and lower jaw 120 extend from sidepiece 140. The upper jaw 118 and lower jaw 120 have inner ends 124 and outer ends 126. In Fig 1, the lower jaw 120 is integral with the sidepiece 140, and the upper jaw 118 is slidably coupled to the sidepiece 140.

[0107] The perpendicular distance between the upper jaw 118 and lower jaw 120 is adjustable. This adjustability of this perpendicular distance is provided through threaded fastener 122, which is coupled to and extends between the upper jaw 118 and lower jaw 120. The depicted threaded fastener 122 is provided with an external nut 142, or alternatively the lower jaw may be threaded and receive the threaded fastener 122.

[0108] Locking mechanism 130 is shown coupled to the wheel mounting 106 and bracket 102. In Fig 1, the locking mechanism 130 is depicted as a sprung loaded pin coupled to the wheel mounting 106, which is received within an aperture in the bracket 102 (aperture not shown). The sprung loaded pin demonstrates a resilient bias towards being received within the aperture, which locks the wheel mounting 106 and bracket 102 to prevent rotational movement. The user may manually pull the sprung loaded pin from the aperture to actuate movement between the lowered and raised positions.

[0109] The locking mechanism 130 would comprise two apertures in the bracket 102 along an arc of rotation of the wheel mounting 106 relative to the bracket 102. The first aperture would enable the wheel assembly 100 to be locked in a lowered position. The second aperture would enable the wheel assembly 100 to be locked in a raised position.

[0110] The wheel assembly 100 also depicts a lever 128 extending from upwardly facing surface 116 of wheel mounting 106. The lever enables the user to actuate the wheel position between the raised and lowered positions. The lever 128 is detachable from the upwardly facing surface 116 of wheel mounting 106 and can be attached to receptacle (not shown) on the bracket 102. Chain 132 couples the lever 128 to wheel mounting 106 to prevent lever 128 being lost.

[0111] The wheel assembly 100 also depicts a first handle 110 extending from an upwardly facing surface 114 of bracket 102. The first handle 110 enables the user to grasp and lift the assembly whilst rotating the lever 128. This increases the ease at which the user can actuate the wheel 108 between the lowered and raised position.

[0112] Fig 2 of the accompanying drawings illustrates the wheel assembly 100 as shown in Fig 1 in a raised position. In the raised position, it can be seen that the wheel mounting 106 is parallel to the base component of a goal 104.

[0113] The labelling used in Fig 1 similarly applies to Fig 2.

[0114] In addition, Fig 2 depicts the first end 110a of the first handle 110 and the second end 110b of the first handle 110. Both ends are coupled to the upwardly facing surface 114 of the bracket 102.

[0115] Fig 2 also depicts that the base component of the goal 104 has several grooves 136. The bracket 102 comprises interlocking screws 138 that are received by the grooves 136. The interlocking of each screw 138 and groove 136 prevents rotational movement of the goal base component 104 when clamped within the bracket 102.

[0116] Fig 3 of the accompanying drawings illustrates the wheel assembly 100 of Figures 1 and 2 in a raised position with the lever stored in a receptacle on the bracket 102. In the raised position, it can be seen that the wheel mounting 106 is parallel to the base component of a goal 104.

[0117] The labelling used in Fig 1 and Fig 2 similarly applies to Fig 3.

[0118] Fig 4 of the accompanying drawings illustrates the wheel assembly 100 of Figures 1, 2, and 3 in a lowered position. In the lowered position, it can be seen that the wheel mounting 106 is perpendicular to the base component of a goal 104.

[0119] Fig 5 of the accompanying drawings illustrates an alternative example of a wheel assembly 200 in the lowered position.

[0120] The wheel assembly 200 depicts a wheel mounting 206, coupled to a wheel 208. The depicted wheel mounting in Fig 5 is a fork, allowing for rotation of the wheel 208. In the lowered position, the wheel mounting 206 would be perpendicular to the base component of a goal.

[0121] The wheel mounting 206 is coupled to the bracket 202. This coupling is a rotatable coupling and enables the wheel mounting 206 and wheel 208 to rotate relative to the bracket 202. The rotatable coupling of the wheel mounting 206 and bracket 202 enables the wheel 208 to be actuated between the lowered position and the raised position.

[0122] The bracket 202 an upper jaw 218 and a lower jaw 220. The upper jaw 218 and lower jaw 220 extend from sidepiece 240. The upper jaw 218 and lower jaw 220 have inner ends 224 and outer ends 226. In Fig 1, the lower jaw 220 is integral with the sidepiece 240, and the upper jaw 218 is slidably coupled to the sidepiece 240.

[0123] The perpendicular distance between the upper jaw 218 and lower jaw 220 is adjustable. This adjustability of this perpendicular distance is provided through the first threaded fastener 222a and second threaded fastener 222b which are coupled to and extends between the upper jaw 218 and lower jaw 220. The depicted threaded fasteners 222a, b may be provided with an external nut 242, or alternatively the lower jaw may be threaded and receive the threaded fasteners 222a, b.

[0124] Locking mechanism 230 is shown coupled to the wheel mounting 206 and bracket 202. In Fig 5, the locking mechanism 230 is depicted as a sprung loaded pin coupled to the wheel mounting 206, which is received within an aperture in the bracket 202 (aperture not shown). The sprung loaded pin demonstrates a resilient bias towards being received within the aperture, which locks the wheel mounting 206 and bracket 202 to prevent rotational movement. The user may manually pull the sprung loaded pin from the aperture to actuate movement between the lowered and raised positions.

[0125] The locking mechanism 230 would comprise two apertures in the bracket 202 along an arc of rotation of the wheel mounting 206 relative to the bracket 202. The first aperture would enable the wheel assembly 200 to be locked in a lowered position. The second aperture would enable the wheel assembly 200 to be locked in a raised position.

[0126] The wheel assembly 100 also depicts a first handle 210 extending from an upwardly facing surface 214 of bracket 202. The first handle 210 is coupled to the upwardly facing surface 214 of bracket 202 through the first end 210a and second end 210b of the first handle 210. The first handle 210 enables the user to grasp and lift the assembly.

[0127] Instead of lever 128, the wheel assembly 200 depicts a second handle 212 extending from an upwardly facing surface 216 of the wheel mounting 206. The second handle 212 is coupled to the upwardly facing surface 214 of bracket 202 through first end 212a and second end 212b of the second handle 212.

[0128] In this configuration, the user can grasp and lift the assembly 200 using the first handle 210, and rotate the wheel mounting 206 using the second handle 212 using their free hand. Rotation of the wheel mounting 206 with respect to the bracket 202 would be centred around axis 146. This increases the ease at which the user can actuate the wheel 208 between the lowered and raised position.

[0129] Fig 6 of the accompanying drawings illustrates a kit of parts 148. The kit of parts 148 comprises at least one transportable wheel assembly 100 or 200, and a goal for a ball sport 144.

[0130] Fig 7 of the accompanying drawings illustrates a side view of a goal for a ball sport 144. Transportable wheel assembly 100 / 200 is shown coupled to base component 104 which is an arm 104a. Optional placings of further transportable wheel assemblies 100a / 200a are shown also coupled to base component 104. This further transportable wheel assembly 100a / 200a may be coupled to the same base arm 104a, a second base arm 104a on the other side of the goal, or the crosspiece of the base 104b. The goal 144 may comprise some or all of the placings of the wheel assemblies 100 / 200, 100a / 200a.

[0131] 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 illustrated clamping arrangement comprises a collar. However, any example of a clamping arrangement envisaged by the present invention 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 sub-combinations of one or more features described herein.

Claims

1. A transportable wheel assembly (100) for a goal for a ball sport, the transportable wheel assembly comprising: • a bracket (102) configured for attachment of the transportable wheel assembly to a base component of a goal (104); • a wheel mounting (106) coupled to a wheel (108); wherein the wheel mounting (106) is rotatably coupled to the bracket (102) such that in use, rotation of the wheel mounting (106) relative to the bracket (102) enables actuation of the wheel position between a lowered position, in which the wheel (108) in use is positioned lower than the base component of a goal (104) such that the goal is supported by the wheel (108) and may be transported; and a raised position in which the wheel (108) in use is positioned at least level with the base component (104) such that the goal is supported by the base component (104).

2. A transportable wheel assembly (200) for a goal for a ball sport, the transportable wheel assembly comprising: • a bracket (202) configured for attachment of the transportable wheel assembly to a base component of a goal, the bracket (202) comprising a first handle (210); • a wheel mounting (206) coupled to a wheel (208), the wheel mounting (206) comprising a second handle (212); wherein the wheel mounting (206) is rotatably coupled to the bracket (202) such that in use, the first handle (210) is configured to be gripped by the user to lift the wheel assembly and the second handle (212) is configured to be gripped and rotated such that the wheel mounting (206) is rotated relative to the bracket (202) to enable actuation of the wheel position between a lowered position, in which the wheel (208) in use is positioned lower than the base component of a goal such that the goal is supported by the wheel (208) and may be transported; and a raised position in which the wheel (208) in use is positioned at least level with the base component such that the goal is supported by the base component.

3. The transportable wheel assembly of claim 2, wherein: • the first handle (110) comprises a first end (110a) and a second end (110b), each independently coupled to the bracket (102); and / or • the second handle (112) comprises a first end (112a) and a second end (112b), each independently coupled to the wheel mounting (106).

4. The transportable wheel assembly of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein: • the first handle (110) extends from an upwardly facing surface (114) of the bracket (102); and / or • the second handle (112) extends from an upwardly facing surface (116) of the wheel mounting (106).

5. The transportable wheel assembly of any one of claims 2-4, wherein the bracket (102) comprises an upper jaw (118) spaced apart from a lower jaw (120), wherein the perpendicular distance between the jaws is adjustable such that in use, the base component (104) is clamped therebetween.

6. A transportable wheel assembly (100) for a goal for a ball sport, the transportable wheel assembly comprising: • a bracket (102) configured for attachment of the transportable wheel assembly to a base component of a goal (104), the bracket (102) comprising an upper jaw (118) spaced apart from a lower jaw (120), wherein the perpendicular distance between the jaws is adjustable such that in use, the base component (104) is clamped therebetween; • a wheel mounting (106) coupled to a wheel (108); wherein the wheel mounting (106) is rotatably coupled to the bracket (102) such that in use, rotation of the wheel mounting (106) relative to the bracket (102) enables actuation of the wheel position between a lowered position, in which the wheel (108) in use is positioned lower than the base component of a goal (104) such that the goal is supported by the wheel (108) and may be transported; and a raised position in which the wheel (108) in use is positioned at least level with the base component (104) such that the goal is supported by the base component (104).

7. The transportable wheel assembly of claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the perpendicular distance between the jaws (118, 120) is adjustable using a fastener, such as a threaded fastener (122) or non-threaded fastener, coupled to and extending between the upper and lower jaws.

8. The transportable wheel assembly of claim 7, comprising a first fastener (122a) coupled to and extending between an inner end (124) of the upper and lower jaws and a second fastener (122b) coupled to and extending between an outer end (126) of the upper and lower jaws (118, 120) such that in use, the base component of the goal (104) is clamped between the upper and lower jaws (118, 120) and fasteners (122a, 122b); optionally wherein the transportable wheel assembly comprises a plurality of first fasteners coupled to and extending between an inner end of the upper and lower jaws and a plurality of second fasteners coupled to and extending between an outer end of the upper and lower jaws.

9. The transportable wheel assembly of any one of claims 1 or 6-8, wherein the wheel mounting comprises a lever (128), such that in use the lever is gripped and rotated such that the wheel mounting (106) is rotated relative to the bracket (102) to enable actuation between the lowered and raised positions.

10. The transportable wheel assembly of any one of claims 1 or 6-9, wherein the bracket (102) comprises a handle (110).

11. The transportable wheel assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bracket (102) and wheel mounting (106) comprise a releasably securable locking mechanism (130), to in use prevent rotational movement of the wheel mounting (106) relative to the bracket (102).

12. The transportable wheel assembly of claim 11, wherein the locking mechanism (130) comprises a male and female component resiliently biased to matingly engage.

13. The transportable wheel assembly of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a padding layer on the external exposed section of the wheel and / or bracket.

14. A kit of parts comprising at least one transportable wheel assembly according to any one of claims 1-13; and a goal for a ball sport.

15. A goal for a ball sport comprising: • two base arms, each independently coupled at a goal-line end to the base of two posts; • a crosspiece extending between a distal end of the two base arms; and • at least one transportable wheel assembly according to any one of claims 1-13 coupled to a base arm or crosspiece.

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