Racket sleeve

Abstract

Title: Racket Sleeve The invention relates to a sleeve for a racket handle (21), particularly for a racket (20), comprising a hollow body 1 whose internal volume opens at a first end and a second end of the hollow body (1), characterized in that the hollow body (1) comprises at least one zone of least mechanical resistance (3a, 3b) extending between the first end and the second end. It also relates to a method comprising the use of a tool for mounting the sleeve. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: Racket sleeve technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of equipment for playing racket sports. This may include tennis, badminton, or squash, without limitation. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Racket handling is an essential aspect of proper racket sport practice. The contact between the hand and the racket handle must be sufficiently effective in terms of comfort, grip, and perspiration absorption.

[0003] It is known to equip the handle of a racket with a removable covering that has the qualities required for good handling performance by the player. This also protects the original covering of the racket handle. Most often, these removable coverings are gripping strips that the player gradually wraps around the racket handle.

[0004] This solution requires a certain amount of dexterity to ensure consistent application and is quite time-consuming. The strip must first be separated from its protective plastic film, and while keeping the strip fully extended (a small plastic section is removed to reveal an adhesive portion for positioning the beginning of the strip), it must be progressively wound onto the handle, and its distal end secured with adhesive tape. The tension applied to the strip during winding must be sufficiently constant to ensure that the properties of the removable coating are uniform along the entire length of the handle.

[0005] An object of the present invention is therefore to propose an alternative to known techniques for forming a removable gripping coating around the handle of a racket.

[0006] The other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from an examination of the following description and accompanying drawings. It is understood that other advantages may be incorporated. SUMMARY

[0007] To achieve this objective, according to one embodiment, a sleeve for the handle of a sports accessory, such as a racket, is provided, comprising a hollow body whose internal volume is open at a first end and a second end of the hollow body.

[0008] Advantageously, the hollow body comprises at least one zone of least mechanical resistance extending from one of the first and second ends end, towards the other between the first end and the second end. Possibly, the zone of least mechanical resistance extends over the entire length between the first end and the second end so as to join them.

[0009] Thus, a grippy coating for a racket or other accessory is provided, which is easily removed from the handle of the racket or other accessory. Beyond the practical aspect of this removal, it also allows for a sleeve that adheres firmly to the handle while maintaining its removability. Indeed, even though the cohesion and adhesion of the sleeve to the handle are high, it remains possible to easily remove the sleeve.

[0010] Whereas one might have thought that the production of a removable cover in the form of a sleeve would be either too difficult to install, or too difficult to remove, or both, a solution is proposed here to at least one of these difficulties.

[0011] According to a separable aspect, a method of using a sleeve comprising is also presented: • a positioning of the hollow body around and in contact with a handle; • subsequently, a withdrawal of the hollow body relative to the handle, including a rupture of at least one area of ​​least mechanical resistance so as to open the hollow body.

[0012] Also presented, in a separable form, is a tool comprising a plurality of arms and an arm-movement device configured to vary their spacing at least between a position where the arms are close together and a position where they are far apart. This tool is configured to receive, by threading it around the arms, a sleeve comprising a hollow body, with or without zone(s) of lesser mechanical resistance, and to vary the radial dimension of the hollow body by varying the arm spacing. Another aspect is a method for mounting a sleeve comprising a hollow body, with or without zone(s) of lesser mechanical resistance, onto the handle of a racket using such a tool.

[0013] Another aspect is a racket equipped with a sleeve, in particular for a tennis, squash or badminton racket, or for any accessory of another racket sport or any sport requiring the use of a hand-grip accessory for which the application of a gripping means is useful. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0014] The aims, objects, features and advantages of the invention will become clearer from the detailed description of an embodiment thereof, which is illustrated by the following accompanying drawings in which:

[0015] [Fig.1] Fig.1 represents a perspective view of an example of a sleeve in the form of a hollow body.

[0016] [Fig.2A] Fig.2A represents an example of a tool whose branches are in a position of approach.

[0017] [Fig.2B] Fig.2B represents this tool when the branches are in the away position.

[0018] [Fig.3A] Fig.3A represents a phase of putting a sleeve on the tool by threading.

[0019] [Fig.3B] Fig.3B represents a phase of setting up the tool carrying the sleeve on a racket handle.

[0020] [Fig.3C] Fig.3C represents the progressive contacting of the sleeve and the handle, with withdrawal of the tool.

[0021] [Fig.3D] The [Fig.3D] reflects a sleeve placed on a racket handle.

[0022] [Fig. 3E] Fig. 3E illustrates the case of a sleeve with a fragile part for to facilitate its removal from the handle.

[0023] The drawings are given by way of example and are not limiting of the invention. They constitute schematic representations of principle intended to facilitate understanding of the invention. They are given in the context of an example of application to a racket, typically a tennis racket, but these illustrations can be interpreted mutatis mutandis for application to any type of sports accessory having a handle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Before proceeding with a detailed review of embodiments of the invention, optional features that may be used in combination or alternatively are listed below: • the zone of least mechanical resistance 3a, 3b includes at least one line of pits in the thickness of the hollow body 1; • the zone of least mechanical resistance 3a, 3b comprises two parallel lines of pitting defining a frangible band 4; • the hollow body 1 includes a pull tab 5 for the frangible strip 4; • the zone of least mechanical resistance 3a, 3b is rectilinear; • the hollow body 1 is a cylinder; • The hollow body 1 is made of polymer material. • The sleeve installation includes: • the use of a tool 10 comprising the plurality of branches 11 and a branch displacement device configured to vary their spacing at least between a position of bringing the branches 11 closer together and a position of moving the branches 11 apart; • in the branch convergence position 11, a setting in place of the hollow body 1 around and in contact with the branches 11; • a passage of the branches 11 into the recoiling position producing a radial expansion of the hollow body 1; • threading the branches 11 around the handle 21 while leaving the hollow body 1 in place on the branches 11; • a reduction in the spacing of the branches 11, then a progressive contacting of the hollow body and the handle during a withdrawal movement of the branches 11 relative to the handle 21. • we use a tool 10 whose branch movement device 11 includes at least two manipulable arms 12 connected to the branches 11 by a motion transmission system 13.

[0025] Figure 1 illustrates an embodiment of a sleeve according to the invention. The sleeve comprises or consists of a body 1 having a long dimension that can be oriented along the long dimension of the handle 21 of a racket 20. The body 1 is hollow, such that it has a hole opening at a first end and a second end, these two ends being opposite along the long dimension of the body 1. The internal volume of the body 1 defines an internal surface 2 intended to be applied to the outer surface of a racket handle. Geometrically, the body has a closed radial cross-section so as to fit all around the handle 21 of the racket 20.

[0026] Advantageously, the length of the hollow body 1 is equivalent to that of the handle 21 of the racket 20 to be fitted. Depending on one possibility, several sleeve sizes are produced, each adapted to a handle size.

[0027] It is understood that the sleeve may include other elements than the hollow body 1, for example a fixing reinforcement ring at one end of the body 1.

[0028] The hollow body 1 advantageously has a cylindrical shape when not under stress. Preferably, it is sufficiently elastic to be able to be radially extended during an assembly phase, then retracted and shaped to the handle 21 of the racket 20 when applied to the racket. Preferably, the internal cross-section of the hollow body 1 at rest is smaller than the external cross-section of the racket handle 21; in this way, the hollow body 1 is subjected to radial extension when in position on the handle 21. Thus, it fits perfectly onto the handle so as to form a coherent unit. In particular, there is advantageously no relative movement between the sleeve and the racket handle 21 in the position of use.

[0029] According to one possibility, the hollow body 1 is made in one piece from a single material. It is preferably made of a polymer material, and in particular it may be made of polyurethane or be polyurethane-based.

[0030] The thickness of the hollow body 1 is preferably greater than or equal to 1.6 mm and / or less than or equal to 2.6 mm.

[0031] The sleeve constitutes a removable component whose outer surface 6 forms the portion in contact with the player's hand. Preferably, the outer surface has gripping properties, for example, through the presence of recessed or raised ridges (which can be formed in the polymer material of the hollow body 1). The outer surface 6 may also be porous, so as to enhance its perspiration-absorbing properties. Furthermore, the invention ensures a perfect fit of the sleeve onto the handle and can conform to its shape. For example, if the handle originally has ridges, typically allowing for a better grip, the sleeve will, through deformation during its application, adopt the same ridges.

[0032] In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 1], the body 1 comprises a zone of lower mechanical resistance. It is possible to form a single zone or more than two zones. Each zone of lower mechanical resistance is the site of a higher stress concentration relative to other areas of the body. This can be achieved alternatively or cumulatively by reducing the thickness of the body at this point, by using a less fracture-resistant material at this point, or by creating perforations in the body material to form a series of holes through its thickness. Thus, for a given mechanical solution, this zone is more prone to failure.

[0033] In the representation of [Fig. 1], a first part of a weak zone 3a is created by a plurality of perforations arranged successively between the first and second ends of the body 1. According to one possibility, as shown in the illustration, the plurality of perforations are arranged along a line, preferably a straight line, between the two ends. Preferably, the direction of the line is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body 1.

[0034] Possibly, a zone of weakness can be formed by a single line of pits.

[0035] According to one possibility, the punctures have a regular pitch with a dimension between 0.5 and twice the width of the punctures.

[0036] An example of forming the stitches consists of obtaining the hollow body 1, for example by extrusion, and bringing it back onto a machine ensuring the stitching.

[0037] Still in the case of the illustration in [Fig. 1], a second part of the zone of least resistance 3b is shown. Advantageously, the second line is parallel to the first. The assembly preferably forms a band 4 delimited laterally by the two zones of weakness 3a, 3b. Following an example, the width of the band 4 is greater than or equal to 3 mm and / or less than or equal to 10 mm.

[0038] This provision is not exhaustive and it is also possible to dispose of parts of areas of weakness further apart from each other.

[0039] It is understood that where the zones of weakness allow, when a certain stress, exceeding the breaking strength of the zones of weakness, is applied by the user, the continuity of the hollow body 1 is broken so that it no longer forms a closed shape. Thus, it can be easily removed from the handle 21 of the racket 20. It should be noted that it may suffice to have a zone of weakness on a limited portion of the sleeve's length, this zone of weakness being sufficient to create a fracture initiation that propagates along the rest of the sleeve. For example, the length of the zone of weakness may be less than or equal to 50% of the sleeve's length.

[0040] To facilitate the application of this stress, the body 1 preferably includes a tab 5. This tab is advantageously located at one end of the body 1. In the case of the formation of a band 4, the tab 5 can be made in line with this band. It is understood that pulling on the tab 5 induces a significant force on the first pits in the weak areas, leading to the initiation of rupture of the band 4, which is thus frangible.

[0041] The term "tongue" refers to any protrusion capable of forming a gripping area for a user, so as to perform a pulling action. In the case shown, the tongue 5 is made of the body material. Of course, the tongue 5 could be attached to the body, for example by gluing.

[0042] As previously stated, the sleeve is intended to be applied to the handle 21 of a racket 20. And its radial dimension is preferably smaller than that of the handle 21. Therefore, it is useful to have a fitting tool that allows radial extension of the sleeve beyond the radial dimension of the handle 21 to achieve insertion around the handle, and subsequently allows retraction of the sleeve to provide application to the handle 21.

[0043] To this end, Figures 2A and 2B illustrate a tool 10. This tool comprises a plurality of arms 11 adapted to receive the sleeve by threading it onto the tool so that the inner surface 2 of the sleeve is applied to each arm. The illustration shows six regularly spaced arms. However, two arms may suffice, for example, diametrically opposed. In this case, the arms 11 advantageously present a larger application surface for the sleeve, particularly with a circular arc cross-section that can be as large as a semicircle.

[0044] Fig. 2A shows a position for bringing the branches 11 together configured to allow the hollow body 1 to be threaded onto the tool 10. Preferably, in this position, the branches 11 form a nose at their distal ends and the branches 11 can be joined there.

[0045] This creates a support that flares out from the nose.

[0046] Figure 2B reflects a position of separation of branches 11. In this example, The ends of the arms 11 are moved radially to open the nose of the tool. In one possibility, the position of the arms 11 is such that they are parallel to each other. As illustrated, however, they can have a non-straight shape, particularly to vary the spreading force of the hollow body 1 along the arms 11.

[0047] Following an example, the branches 11 are metallic.

[0048] To move from the approach position to the distance position, and vice versa, the tool has a mechanism for moving the arms 11. This mechanism is schematically illustrated in Figures 2A and 2B. Actuation can be performed by two arms 12 that can be manipulated by the user. In one configuration, the arms 12 are pivotally mounted. Thus, like a pair of pliers, applying a force to bring the arms 12 together generates, via a motion transmission system 13, a movement of the arms 11. This movement can be directed either in the distance direction or in the approach direction, depending on the motion transmission method. Thus, in the example shown, bringing the arms 12 together causes the arms to move apart. The opposite situation is also possible, like a pair of pliers or scissors.

[0049] Preferably, the motion transmission operates with a gear reduction such that a limited angle of pressure from the user results in a greater displacement of the arms. Furthermore, this also allows the arms to be spread apart by a sufficient amplitude to ensure the application of a sleeve to handles of different diameters. Preferably, the radial expansion of the sleeve produced by the arms is identical along its entire length.

[0050] The transmission of motion can be achieved by any mechanical means. This can include a frame (which is easy to implement, particularly when there are only two arms 11), gear elements, or cooperating inclined surfaces for the radial expansion of the arms 11. Furthermore, the use of arms 12 is not essential; for example, a thrust element along the longitudinal direction can provide a back-and-forth motion, and vice versa, on a radial expansion device for the arms 11, for example, by means of cooperating inclined surfaces.

[0051] An example of how to use the sleeve is now given, for installing it and then removing it.

[0052] In [Fig. 3A], the hollow body 1 is threaded along the direction of the arrow onto the arms 11, from their distal ends, with the tool in the position for bringing the arms 11 together. Preferably, the arms 11 have a low-adherence surface, particularly when they are metallic, so as to offer low resistance during this threading operation. Preferably, this surface is smooth so as to The device can be easily removed during the installation of the sleeve onto the handle. As long as it is held on the branches, the sleeve does not apply pressure to the handle, which facilitates threading.

[0053] Figure 3B shows that the tool was placed in the position of the arms 11 away from the handle, which led to the elastic radial extension of the hollow body 1. This radial extension is such that the sleeve can be slipped onto the handle 21 of the racket 20, following the direction of the arrow in Figure 3B.

[0054] When the relative position of the handle of the appropriate sleeve is reached, the tool 10 is progressively withdrawn, following the direction of the arrow in [Fig. 3C]. Optionally, at the beginning of this movement, the operator applies a retaining force to the distal end of the sleeve, so as to hold it against the handle 21, as schematically indicated by the arrow in this figure. As shown in [Fig. 3C], the progressive withdrawal of the tool 10 results in the progressive application of the inner surface of the hollow body 1 to the outer surface of the handle 21.

[0055] We thus finally reach the configuration of use of the racket 20 represented in [Fig.3D].

[0056] The player can use the racket 20 until they wish to remove the sleeve, for example, to replace it if it is worn. To do this, as shown in [Fig. 3E], they apply pressure to the weak point(s) to break them and open the sleeve, by laterally relaxing the hollow body 1, which then no longer applies pressure, or only partially, to the handle 21. Typically, when the sleeve is equipped with a band 4, pulling on the tab 5 is sufficient to initiate this break and propagate it. When the weak point extends along the entire longitudinal dimension of the sleeve, this tension is exerted on this point all the way to the opposite end of the body 1. If the weak point is shorter than the length of the sleeve, the initial break caused by pulling from one end of the sleeve on the weak point allows the break to propagate to the other end by continuing to exert a tensile force on the body 1.

[0057] If the sleeve is not equipped with areas of lesser mechanical resistance, the operator can, although less easily, exert a longitudinal force leading to the progressive removal of the sleeve, for example by pulling on the end of the hollow body 1 located at the distal end of the handle 21.

[0058] The invention is not limited to the embodiments previously described and extends to all embodiments covered by the invention.

[0059] NUMERICAL REFERENCES 1. Hollow body 2. Internal surface 3a. Part of the zone of least resistance 3b. Part of the zone of least resistance 4. Band 5. Tab 6. External surface 10. Tool 11. Branch 12. Arms 13. Transmission System 20. Snowshoe 21. Round

Claims

Demands

1. A method for using a sleeve for a handle (21) of a sports accessory such as a racket (20), comprising a hollow body (1) whose internal volume opens at a first end and a second end of the hollow body (1), in which the hollow body (1) comprises at least one zone of least mechanical resistance (3a, 3b) extending from one of the first and second ends towards the other of the first and second ends, the method comprising: • a positioning of the hollow body (1) around and in contact with a handle (21); • subsequently, a withdrawal of the hollow body (1) relative to the handle (21), comprising a rupture of at least one zone of least mechanical resistance (3a, 3b) so as to open the hollow body (1); and in which the pose includes: • the use of a tool (10) comprising the plurality of branches (11) and a branch displacement device configured to vary their spacing at least between a position of bringing the branches (11) closer together and a position of moving the branches (11) further apart; • in the position of approaching the branches (11), a placement of the hollow body (1) around and in contact with the branches (il); • a passage of the branches (11) into the recoiling position producing a radial expansion of the hollow body (1); • threading the branches (11) around the handle (21) while leaving the hollow body (1) in place on the branches (11); • a reduction in the spacing of the branches (11), then a progressive contacting of the hollow body and the handle during a movement of withdrawal of the branches (11) relative to the handle (21).

2. A method according to the preceding claim, wherein a tool (10) whose branch movement device (11) includes at least two manipulable arms (12) connected to the branches (11) by a motion transmission system (13).

3. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a sleeve is used in which the zone of least mechanical resistance (3a, 3b) comprises at least one line of pits in the thickness of the hollow body (1).

4. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein a sleeve is used in which the zone of least mechanical resistance (3a, 3b) is formed with two lines of parallel stitches defining a frangible band (4).

5. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein a sleeve is used in which the hollow body (1) includes a pull tab (5) for the frangible strip (4).

6. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a sleeve is used in which the zone of least mechanical resistance (3a, 3b) extends integrally between the first end and the second end.

7. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a sleeve is used in which the zone of least mechanical resistance (3a, 3b) is rectilinear.

8. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a sleeve is used in which the hollow body (1) is a cylinder.

9. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a sleeve is used in which the hollow body (1) is based on polymer material.

10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a retention force is exerted on the distal end of the sleeve at the start of the retraction movement of the branches (11) relative to the handle (21), so as to retain the sleeve on the handle (21).

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