Apparatus with replaceable tensioning cords for transporting, carrying, picking up, collecting, and storing balls

Abstract

An apparatus for picking up, holding and transporting one or more balls. The apparatus has two rectangular frame members positioned parallel and opposite each other. Tensioning arrangement connect between corresponding corner segments of the frame members. In an unstretched position of the tensioning arrangement the frame members are distanced a distance that is smaller than a ball diameter. When picking up a ball, the frame members are distanced a distance that is equal to the ball diameter, and, after picking up the ball, the frame members are distanced a distance that is smaller than the ball diameter and larger than the unstretched distance, and, the ball is retained within the apparatus.

Description

[0001] APPARATUS WITH REPLACEABLE TENSIONING CORDS FOR TRANSPORTING, CARRYING, PICKING UP, COLLECTING, AND STORING BALLS

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to an apparatus for use with sports balls, and more particularly to an apparatus for carrying soccer or football balls.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Common techniques of transporting and storing sports balls, especially football (soccer, in the U.S.) balls, are in a bag made of mesh netting whose opening and closing is controlled by a draw string. Loosening the draw string permits the bag to be opened sufficiently to allow the balls to be placed in the bag. The draw string is then drawn or pulled to sufficiently reduce the bag opening and then fastened to prevent the balls from falling or rolling out of the net bag. However, such mesh bags can be difficult to transport when balls are placed in the bag. Furthermore, it is difficult or even impossible to count the number of balls within the bag, a fact that causes frequent loosing of balls.

[0006] Another technique for transporting and storing balls relies on a pair of rectangular frames constructed from plastic (typically polyvinylchloride - PVC) pipe elements. Each frame typically has elongated pipe segments that are connected to each other via elbow connectors that form corners of the frame (i.e., each frame has four elbow connectors). The two frames are connected to each other via bungee cords that are connected at corresponding elbow connectors of the two frames. The bungee cords keep the frames spaced apart at a distance that is less than the diameter of a sports ball, but also have enough elasticity to allow the frames to separate enough to allow one or more sports balls to pass between the frames. However, the connections between the elbow connectors and the elongated pipe segments tend to fail over time, resulting in the frames coming apart. In addition, the bungee cords fray with use, resulting in changes in the elasticity and potential snapping of the bungee cords. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention is an apparatus for transporting, carrying, picking up, collecting, and storing balls.

[0008] According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for picking up, holding and transporting one or more balls, the apparatus comprising: two frame members positioned parallel and opposite each other, each of the two frame members is generally rectangular in shape, made of a single unitary piece, and includes an upper frame segment, a lower frame segment, a left frame segment, and a right frame segment, and, a first, a second, a third, and a fourth corner segments between each of the frame segments, tensioning arrangement connecting between each of the corner segments of the first frame member and corresponding corner segments of the second frame member, wherein in an unstretched position of the tensioning arrangement, the first and second frame members are distanced an unstretched distance that is smaller than a ball diameter, when picking up a ball, the first and second frame members are distanced a distance that is equal to the ball diameter, and after picking up the ball, the first and second frame members are distanced a distance that is smaller than the diameter of the ball and larger than the unstretched distance, and, the ball is retained within the apparatus.

[0009] Practically, the single unitary piece is made of a hollow pipe.

[0010] Typically, the two frame members are identical.

[0011] Typically, the single unitary piece is formed by at least one connection joint.

[0012] If desired, the at least one connection joint is formed by welding or brazing. If desired, the at least one connection joint is formed by a pressed punch connection.

[0013] According to some embodiments, the pressed punch connection is formed by a bushing inserted into an open end of a first pipe end to be punched, the first pipe end to be punched and the bushing are press punched together to form a pressed punch connection therebetween such that they become a unitary piece that cannot be dismantled into two or more pieces, and leaving a free bushing open end, the bushing open end is inserted into a second pipe end to be punched, which is another unpunched end of the pipe or of another pipe, until the open end of the first pipe end to be punched abuts against an open end of the second pipe end to be punched, and the second pipe end to be punched is press punched together with the bushing thus forming a pressed punch connection therebetween such that they become a unitary piece that cannot be dismantled into two or more pieces.

[0014] Practically, the bushing has a bushing external diameter similar to a pipe internal diameter and slightly smaller therefrom to enable insertion of the bushing into the pipe with a tight contact between the bushing and the pipe.

[0015] If desired, the press punch connections of the first pipe end to be punched and the second pipe end to be punched are made along a first punching line that is parallel to an axis of the pipe.

[0016] Further if desired, the press punch connections of the first pipe end to be punched and the second pipe end to be punched are further made along a second punching line that is parallel to the first punching line.

[0017] Advantageously, the single unitary piece cannot fall apart and cannot be dismantled by a user.

[0018] Typically, the apparatus comprises an outer hole having a hole axis and a first diameter, the outer hole being located on a bisector of each of the corner segments, on an extreme portion of a frame member outward side, and an inner hole having a second diameter and coaxial with the hole axis, the inner hole being located on an extreme portion of a frame member inward side and diametrically opposite to the outer hole, and wherein the first diameter is larger than the second diameter.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first diameter is 10 mm and the second diameter is 6.5 mm.

[0020] According to some embodiments, each tensioning arrangement is pre-cut to a required length, a free end of the tensioning arrangement is inserted through the inner hole and out of the outer hole of each frame member, a knot is tied next to the free end of the tensioning arrangement, the tensioning arrangement is pulled from adjacent the inner hole and away from the outer hole such that the knot slides inwardly, through the outer hole, into an inner space of the pipe, and rests on an inner wall of the pipe adjacent the inner hole.

[0021] If desired, each of the outer holes is sealed by a hole plug.

[0022] Practically, the hole plug is self-retained within the outer hole by means of flexible wings that bend when the hole plug is inserted into the outer hole and return to an unpressed position when the hole plug is fully inserted into the outer hole.

[0023] Further practically, a rear shoulder of each flexible wing abuts against the inner wall of the pipe thus preventing the hole plug from being released.

[0024] Advantageously, the tensioning arrangement are replaceable.

[0025] Practically, a replacement of a tensioning arrangement consists of the following stages: removing the hole plug, holding the free end of the tensioning arrangement by means of a dedicated extraction tool that is inserted through the outer hole, cutting the tensioning arrangement from out of the pipe, next to the inner hole, pulling out through the outer hole the free end of the tensioning arrangement and the knot, cutting a new tensioning arrangement to a required length, a free end of the new tensioning arrangement is inserted through the inner hole and out of the outer hole of each frame member, a knot is tied at the free end of the tensioning arrangement, the tensioning arrangement is pulled from adjacent the inner hole and away from the outer hole such that the knot slides inwardly, through the outer hole, into the inner space of the pipe, and rests on the inner wall of the pipe adjacent the inner hole.

[0026] In some embodiments, the apparatus is provided with shoulder straps for carrying the apparatus.

[0027] Practically, an upper portion of each of the shoulder straps is attached to an upper frame segment of a given frame member, and a lower portion of each of the shoulder straps is attached to a lower frame segment of the same given frame member.

[0028] If desired, the shoulder straps are attached fixedly or detachably to the frame segments.

[0029] Practically, each shoulder strap is provided with a length adjustment mechanism.

[0030] If desired, a chest strap connects between two shoulder straps.

[0031] In some embodiments, the apparatus is provided with a cross strap for carrying the apparatus.

[0032] Practically, an upper portion of the cross strap is connected to the upper frame segment and a lower portion of the cross strap is connected to the lower frame segment.

[0033] If desired, the upper portion of the cross strap is connected to a first end of the upper frame segment, and the lower portion of the cross strap is connected to a second end of the lower frame segment, the second end being diagonally opposite with respect to the first end. Practically, the cross strap is attached fixedly or detachably to the frame segments.

[0034] If desired, the cross strap is provided with a length adjustment mechanism.

[0035] Practically, when the cross strap is connected by a detachable connection to the frame segments, the detachable connection may be opened to allow cones, or any other desired item, to be slided onto the cross strap.

[0036] If desired, a water bottle holder is attached to a portion of one of the frame segments.

[0037] If desired, a bag is attached to one of the frame segments.

[0038] Practically, the bag is attached fixedly or detachably to the frame segments.

[0039] Typically, the balls are football or soccer balls.

[0040] According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus is configured for holding at most one ball at a time.

[0041] According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus is configured for holding at most two balls at a time.

[0042] According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for picking up, holding and transporting one or more balls, the apparatus comprising: two frame members positioned parallel and opposite each other, each of the two frame members is generally rectangular in shape and includes an upper frame segment, a lower frame segment, a left frame segment, and a right frame segment, and, a first, a second, a third, and a fourth corner segments between each of the frame segments, tensioning arrangement connecting between each of the corner segments of the first frame member and corresponding corner segments of the second frame member, wherein in an unstretched position of the tensioning arrangement, the first and second frame members are distanced an unstretched distance that is smaller than a ball diameter, when picking up a ball, the first and second frame members are distanced a distance that is equal to the ball diameter, and after picking up the ball, the first and second frame members are distanced a distance that is smaller than the diameter of the ball and larger than the unstretched distance, and, the ball is retained within the apparatus.

[0043] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] Some embodiments of the present invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

[0045] Attention is now directed to the drawings, where like reference numerals or characters indicate corresponding or like components. In the drawings:

[0046] Fig. 1 is an isometric view of an apparatus for transporting, carrying, picking up, collecting and storing sports balls, according to embodiments of the present invention;

[0047] Fig. 2 is a side view of the apparatus of Fig. 1 ;

[0048] Fig. 3 is an isometric view of the apparatus of Fig. 1 showing the apparatus holding five balls;

[0049] Fig. 4 is a front view of a first frame member having a single connection joint at an upper frame segment thereof;

[0050] Fig. 5 is a front view of a first frame member having a connection joint at an upper frame segment thereof and a connection joint as a lower frame segment thereof;

[0051] Fig. 6 is a front view of a first frame member having a single connection joint at a left frame segment thereof; Fig. 7 is a front view of a first frame member having a connection joint at a left frame segment thereof and a connection joint at a right frame segment thereof;

[0052] Fig. 8 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the first frame member showing a first stage of a pressed punch connection;

[0053] Fig. 9 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the first frame member showing a second stage of a pressed punch connection;

[0054] Fig. 10 is a schematical side view of a connection joint according to a first embodiment of pressed punch connections;

[0055] Fig. 11 is a schematical side view of a connection joint according to a second embodiment of pressed punch connections;

[0056] Fig. 12 is a schematical side view of a connection joint according to a third embodiment of pressed punch connections;

[0057] Fig. 13 is a schematical side view of a connection joint according to a fourth embodiment of pressed punch connections;

[0058] Fig. 14 is a schematical plan view of a corner segment;

[0059] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a corner segment taken along line XV- XV in Fig. 14;

[0060] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the pipe taken along line XVI-XVI in Fig. 15 and showing a knot in the bungee cord;

[0061] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of an outer hole with a hole plug attached therein;

[0062] Fig. 18 is a top view of the apparatus shown in Fig. 1, before picking up a ball thereinto;

[0063] Fig. 19 is a partial side view of the apparatus of Fig. 1 in a maximal stretch position of the bungee cords when picking up a ball;

[0064] Fig. 20 is partial side view of the apparatus of Fig. 1 after picking up a ball;

[0065] Fig. 21 is a perspective view of a shoulder strap for carrying the apparatus of Fig. 1 according to embodiments of the present invention; and Fig. 22 is a perspective view of a cross strap for carrying the apparatus of Fig. 1 according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0066] DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0067] The present invention is an apparatus for transporting, carrying, picking up, collecting, and storing balls.

[0068] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

[0069] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings and / or the examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Initially, throughout this document, references are made to directions such as, for example, upper and lower, left and right, and the like. These directional references are exemplary only to illustrate the invention and embodiments thereof.

[0070] Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1-3 illustrate an apparatus, generally designated 10, constructed and operative according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus 10 is configured for performing multiple functions including transporting, carrying, picking up, collecting, storing, and holding balls, in particular sports balls such as soccer balls (in the U.S.) or footballs (out of the U.S.), basketballs, handballs, volleyballs, water polo balls, and the like. The structure and operation of the apparatus 10 enables the apparatus 10 to perform the aforementioned multiple functions in an expedited, efficient and convenient manner.

[0071] Generally speaking, the apparatus 10 includes a pair of frame members; a first frame member 12 and a second frame member 14. The first frame member 12 and the second frame member 14 are typically identical in structure and positioned parallel and opposite each other. Since the first frame member 12 and the second frame member 14 are typically identical in structure, for simplicity of presentation only the structure of the first frame member 12 will be described, however, it should be understood that the description of the first frame member 12 also applies to the second frame member 14 unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0072] The first frame member 12 is generally rectangular in shape, and includes an upper frame segment 16, a lower frame segment 18, a left frame segment 20, and a right frame segment 22. As the first frame member 12 is rectangular, the upper frame segment 16 is parallel and opposite to the lower frame segment 18, and, the left frame segment 20 is parallel and opposite to the right frame segment 22.

[0073] The distance between extreme portions of the upper frame segment 16 and the lower frame segment 18 defines a first dimension LI of the first frame member 12. Typically, the first dimension LI is a length dimension, or, shortly, a length of the first frame member 12.

[0074] The distance between extreme portions of the left frame segment 20 and the right frame segment 22 defines a second dimension L2 of the first frame member 12. Typically, the second dimension L2 is a width dimension, or, shortly, a width of the first frame member 12.

[0075] Preferably, the first dimension LI is larger than the second dimension L2. Typically, the first dimension LI is at least twice than the second dimension L2. Further typically, in some embodiments, the first dimension LI is about four to five times the second dimension L2.

[0076] The first frame member 12 is made of a single unitary piece of a hollow pipe 24 or tube (see Figs. 14-16). This means that the first frame member 12 does not have to be assembled by a user and cannot be dismantled by a user. The first frame member 12 is preferably constructed from a lightweight and weather resistant material that can be easily lifted by a person of average or even below average strength. In preferred embodiments, the first frame member 12 is constructed from a lightweight metal, such as aluminum, carbon fiber, titanium, and the like. According to certain non-limiting embodiments, the first frame member 12 is constructed from aluminum, thereby providing the first frame member 12 with structural integrity when used as part of the apparatus 10. Preferably, the first frame member 12 is constructed from anodized aluminum, but the first frame member 12 can also be powder coated and / or painted. Anodized aluminum and / or powder coating and / or painting enables coloring of the apparatus with a multitude of colors.

[0077] In a non-limiting construction of the first frame member 12, a corner formed between the left frame segment 20 and the upper frame segment 16 constitutes a first corner segment 26. A corner formed between the upper frame segment 16 and the right frame segment 22 constitutes a second corner segment 28. A corner formed between the right frame segment 22 and the lower frame segment 18 constitutes a third corner segment 30. A corner formed between the lower frame segment 18 and the left frame segment 20 constitutes a fourth corner segment 32.

[0078] Each of the first, second, third and fourth corner segments 26, 28, 30, 32 are identical and therefore only one of them will be later described.

[0079] As mentioned, in preferred embodiments, the first frame member 12 is a single unitary piece. The production of the first frame member 12 will now be described.

[0080] According to a first non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the first frame member 12, as shown in Fig. 4, is made from an aluminum pipe 24 that is produced from a single piece of pipe and is bent four times at a 90°- bend to form a rectangle shape. As shown in the figure, the first frame member 12 has a single connection joint 34 at a center of its upper frame segment 16. Although the connection joint 34 is shown in the center of the upper frame segment 16, it is not necessarily produced at this location and other locations may be chosen as well.

[0081] According to a second non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the first frame member 12, as shown in Fig. 5, is made from two pieces of an aluminum pipe 24. Each of the two pieces is bent two times at a 90°-bend to form a U-shape piece, and, the two U-shape pieces are connected together at their ends and form two connection joints 34; a first connection joint at the center of the upper frame segment 16, and, a second connection joint at a center of the lower frame segment 18.

[0082] According to a third non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the first frame member 12, as shown in Fig. 6, is made from an aluminum pipe 24 that is produced from a single piece of pipe and is bent four times at a 90°- bend to form a rectangle shape. As shown in the figure, the first frame member 12 has a single connection joint 34 at a center of its left frame segment 20. Although the connection joint 34 is shown in the center of the left frame segment 20, it is not necessarily produced at this location and other locations may be chosen as well, along the left frame segment 20 or along the right frame segment 22.

[0083] According to a fourth non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the first frame member 12, as shown in Fig. 7, is made from two pieces of an aluminum pipe 24. Each of the two pieces is bent two times at a 90°-bend to form a U-shape piece, and, the two U-shape pieces are connected together at their ends and form two connection joints 34; a first connection joint at the center of the left frame segment 20, and, a second connection joint at a center of the right frame segment 22. Although the connection joints 34 are shown at the center of the left frame segment 20 and at the center of the right frame segment 22, they are not necessarily being produced at these locations and other locations may be chosen as well, along the left frame segment 20 or along the right frame segment 22. The connection joints 34 may be opposite each other, or, at different locations along the left frame segment 20 and along the right frame segment 22. The connection joint 34 may be formed in various manners. According to some embodiments, the connection joint 34 is formed by welding or brazing, using a high-temperature alloy, for example copper and zinc, for forming, fixing, or joining, as known in the art. Then, the connection joint 34 is ground to create an even surface with the pipe 24 before the pipe 24 is being painted.

[0084] According to some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 8-13, the connection joint 34 is formed by pressed punch connection 36. In a first stage of producing the pressed punch connection 36, as shown in Fig. 8, a bushing 38 is inserted into an open end 40 of a first pipe end to be punched 42. According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, the pipe 24 has a pipe external diameter DI of 28 mm, and, a wall-thickness T of 1.5 mm. Thus, the pipe 24 has a pipe internal diameter D2 of 25 mm. The bushing 38 has a bushing external diameter D3 which is similar to the pipe internal diameter D2 and slightly smaller therefrom to enable insertion of the bushing 38 into the pipe 24 with a tight contact therebetween. At this stage, the first pipe end to be punched 42 and the bushing 38 are press punched together to form a pressed punch connection 36 therebetween such that they become a unitary piece that cannot be dismantled into two or more pieces, and leaving a free bushing open end 44.

[0085] Now, at the next stage, as shown in Fig. 9, the bushing open end 44 is inserted into a second pipe end to be punched 46, which is another unpunched end of the pipe 24 or of another pipe 24, depending on the embodiment of the production process. The bushing open end 44 is inserted into the second pipe end to be punched 46 until the open end 40 of the pipe, i.e., of the first pipe end to be punched 42, abuts against an open end 48 of the piece of pipe that is inserted into, i.e., of the second pipe end to be punched 46. At this stage, when both open ends 40, 48 of the pipes abut each other, the second pipe end to be punched 46 is press punched together with the bushing 38, thus forming a connection joint 34 between the first pipe end to be punched 42 and the second pipe end to be punched 46, such that they become a unitary piece and cannot be dismantled.

[0086] Various embodiments of pressed punch connections are shown in Figs. 10-13. Fig. 10 is a schematical side view of a connection joint 34 according to a first embodiment of pressed punch connections. In this embodiment, the first pipe end to be punched 42 has one pressed punch connection 36, and, the second pipe end to be punched 46 has one pressed punch connection 36. Typically, both pressed punch connections 36 are colinear on a first punching line 50 that is parallel to an axis A of the pipe 24.

[0087] Fig. 11 is a schematical side view of a connection joint 34 according to a second embodiment of pressed punch connections. In this embodiment, the first pipe end to be punched 42 has one pressed punch connection 36 on the first punching line 50 and one pressed punch connection 36 on a second punching line 52 that is diametrically opposite to the first punching line 50 and parallel thereto. The second pipe end to be punched 46 has, similar to the first pipe end to be punched 42, one pressed punch connection 36 on the first punching line 50 and one pressed punch connection 36 on the second punching line 52.

[0088] Fig. 12 is a schematical side view of a connection joint 34 according to a third embodiment of pressed punch connections. In this embodiment, the first pipe end to be punched 42 has two, colinear with the first punching line 50, spaced apart pressed punch connections 36, and, the second pipe end to be punched 46 has two, colinear with the first punching line 50, spaced apart pressed punch connections 36.

[0089] Fig. 13 is a schematical side view of a connection joint 34 according to a fourth embodiment of pressed punch connections. In this embodiment, the first pipe end to be punched 42 has two, colinear with the first punching line 50, spaced apart pressed punch connections 36, and two, colinear with the second punching line 52, spaced apart pressed punch connections 36. The second pipe end to be punched 46 has two, colinear with the first punching line 50, spaced apart pressed punch connections 36, and two, colinear with the second punching line 52, spaced apart pressed punch connections 52.

[0090] Thus, according to the described above, a unitary piece, made from a hollow pipe, and rectangle in a front view is obtained, such as shown in Fig. 1. The first frame member 12 and the second frame member 14 are identical, parallel to each other, and opposite each other. A side of the first frame member 12 that faces the second frame member 14 defines a frame member inward side 54 (see Fig. 2), and, a side of the first frame member 12 that is opposite the frame member inward side 54 defines a frame member outward side 56.

[0091] At a next stage, two holes are made in each of the corner segments, i.e., in the first corner segment 26, in the second corner segment 28, in the third corner segment 30 and in the fourth corner segment 32. Since all the corner segments are identical unless otherwise mentioned, only one exemplary corner segment, designated 58 in Fig. 14, will be described.

[0092] As shown in Figs. 14 and 15, the holes are made on a bisector 60 of the corner segment 58. An outer hole 62 having a hole axis Al and a first diameter D4 is made on an extreme portion of the frame member outward side 56, and, an inner hole 64 having a second diameter D5 is made on an extreme portion of the frame member inward side 54 and is located diametrically opposite to the outer hole 62 and coaxial with the hole axis Al. The first diameter D4 is larger than the second diameter D5. According to preferred embodiments of the present invention, the first diameter D4 is 10 mm, and the second diameter D5 is 6.5 mm.

[0093] As shown in Fig. 16, a tensioning cord implemented as a bungee cord 66 (or shock cord), being tensioning arrangement for connecting between the first frame member 12 and the second frame member 14, is pre-cut to a required length. Various kinds of bungee cords have different diameters, typically, a diameter of 4 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm, or 10 mm. According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, the bungee cord 66 has a diameter of 6 mm. A free end 68 of the bungee cord 66 is inserted / threaded through the inner hole 64 and out of the outer hole 62 of the first frame member 12. Then, a knot 70 is tied next to the free end 68 of the bungee cord 66. At this stage, the bungee cord 66 is pulled from adjacent the inner hole 64 and away from the outer hole 62 such that the knot 70 slides inwardly, through the outer hole 62, into an inner space 72 of the pipe 24, and rests on an inner wall 74 of the pipe 24 adjacent the inner hole 64.

[0094] Now, the bungee cord 66 that protrudes out of the inner hole 64 of the first frame member 12 is inserted / threaded through an adjacent inner hole 64 and out of an outer hole 62 of the second frame member 14 that is spaced apart, parallel, and opposite the first frame member 12. Then, the bungee cord 66 is tied and pulled inwardly, into the pipe 24 of the second frame member 14 in a same manner as described with respect to the first frame member 12.

[0095] When all the corner segments, i.e., the first corner segment 26, the second corner segment 28, the third corner segment 30 and the fourth corner segment 32 of both the first frame member 12 and the second frame member 14 are connected to each other by bungee cords 66 as shown in Fig. 1, each of the outer holes is sealed by a common hole plug 76 as used in the art. As shown in Fig. 17, typically the hole plug 76 is self-retained within the outer hole 62 by means of flexible wings 78 that bend when the hole plug 76 is inserted into the outer hole 62 but return to an unpressed position when the hole plug 76 is fully inserted into the outer hole 62. In this position, as shown in Fig. 17, a rear shoulder 80 of each flexible wing 78 abuts against the inner wall 74 of the pipe 24 thus preventing the hole plug 76 from being released.

[0096] At this stage, as shown in Fig. 1, a basic structure of the apparatus 10 is ready, and the apparatus 10 is prepared for use. The bungee cords 66 are stretchable and flexible to enable distancing of the first frame member 12 from the second frame member 14, but they are stiff enough to provide a distance between the first frame member 12 and the second frame member 14.

[0097] In order to use the apparatus 10, an operator (i.e., a coach, a coach assistant, a player, a physical education teacher, a private soccer trainer, etc.) stands with the apparatus 10, holding with one hand the upper frame segment 16 of the first frame member 12, and, holding with another hand the upper frame segment 16 of the second frame member 14.

[0098] Then, the operator approaches a ball 82 that he would like to pick up from a surface 84 (see Fig. 19), such as a grass field, synthetic grass, or a floor, and he places the apparatus 10 on the ball 82 such that the ball is centered (see Fig. 18) between the lower frame segment 18 of the first frame member 12, the lower frame segment 18 of the second frame member 14, the bungee cord 66 connecting between the third corner segment 30 of the first frame member 12 and the third corner segment 30 of the second frame member 14, and, the bungee cord 66 connecting between the fourth corner segment 32 of the first frame member 12 and the fourth corner segment 32 of the second frame member 14.

[0099] The dimensions of the apparatus 10 are designed according to a diameter of a ball that should be picked up by the apparatus 10 and by a number of the balls that could be picked up and stored simultaneously within the apparatus 10. As can be seen in Fig. 18, a ball diameter D6 is slightly larger than an unstretched distance L3 which is a maximal unstretched distance between the first frame member 12 and the second frame member 14, when the bungee cords 66 connecting between the first frame member 12 and the second frame member 14 are pulled but unstretched.

[0100] Now, the operator pushes down the apparatus 10 such that the first frame member 12 and the second frame member 14 are pushed down simultaneously. At this stage, the stretchability and flexibility of the bungee cords 66, that connect between the lower frame segment 18 of the first frame member 12 and the lower frame segment 18 of the second frame member 14, enable them to stretch such that the lower frame segment 18 of the first frame member 12 and the lower frame segment 18 of the second frame member 14 move away from each other until they are spaced apart a distance that is equal to the ball diameter D6 (see Fig. 19). At the same time, the stretching of the bungee cords 66 and their flexibility enable a bungee central portion 86 of each of the bungee cords 66 to move away from each other until they are spaced apart a distance that is equal to the ball diameter D6. In this position, it is a maximal stretching of the bungee cords 66.

[0101] When the operator keeps pushing down the apparatus 10, beyond the ball diameter D6, as shown in Fig. 20, the bungee cords 66 release their maximal stretching, the first frame member 12 and the second frame member 14 are urged toward each other by the tensioning of the bungee cords 66, and the first frame member 12 and second frame member 14 approach each other, thus, the ball 82 remains held within the apparatus 10 without possibility to fall out. Now, if it is desired to pick up more balls 82, the same process is continued with a second ball 82, then, when held by the apparatus 10, it pushes upwardly the ball 82 that was first held by the apparatus 10. Thus, after repeating the process five times, five balls 82 are held by the apparatus 10 as shown in Fig. 3, that show a specific embodiment of an apparatus 10 for picking up and storing five balls 82. According to a specific embodiment of the apparatus 10, the first dimension LI is 1,206 mm and the second dimension L2 is 195 mm.

[0102] According to other embodiments, other number of balls may be picked up and held by an apparatus 10. When the balls 82 are held within the apparatus 10, due to the bungee cords 66 that urge the first frame member 12 towards the second frame member 14, each ball 82 is held by four contact points; first, the left frame segment 20 of the first frame member 12, second, the right frame segment 22 of the first frame member 12, third, the left frame segment 20 of the second frame member 14, and fourth, the right frame segment 22 of the second frame member 14.

[0103] As explained above and shown in the figures, the apparatus 10 is effectively used for transporting, carrying, picking up, collecting, and storing balls. The apparatus 10 is very convenient to use and it enables storing multiple sets of balls in a visible and aerated manner. By using the apparatus 10, a total number of balls 82 that are stored can be easily obtained.

[0104] In a case that the bungee cords 66 become worn, cut, or need to be replaced, their replacement may be easily accomplished. According to some embodiments, upon removing a hole plug 76 (Fig. 17), by any desired method known in the art, a dedicated extraction tool (not specifically shown) is inserted through an outer hole 62 for holding the free end 68 of a bungee cord 66 (see Fig. 16). Next, the bungee cord 66 is cut from out of the pipe 24, next to the inner hole 64, and the remaining free end 68 of the bungee cord 66 and the knot 70 are pulled out through the outer hole 62. At this stage, a new bungee cord 66 may be inserted and tied as explained above.

[0105] According to some embodiments, pulling out of the knot 70 through the outer hole 62 is avoided. Thus, the bungee cord that needs to be replaced is cut from out of the pipe 24, next to the inner hole 64, the knot 70 falls down and remains within the inner space 72 of the pipe 24, and a new bungee cord 66 may be inserted and tied as explained above.

[0106] In order to release one ball 82 from the apparatus 10, for example, the lower ball 82 of the five balls 82 shown in Fig. 3, the lower frame segment 18 of the first frame member 12 and the lower frame segment 18 of the second frame member 14 are slightly moved apart by two hands, such that the lower ball 82 may be released from the apparatus 10.

[0107] In order to release all the balls 82 from the apparatus 10 at the same time, the left frame segment 20, for example, of the first frame member 12 and the left frame segment 20 of the second frame member 14 are moved apart by two hands, such that all the balls 82 fall out of the apparatus 10.

[0108] The apparatus 10 with the balls 82 retained therein can be easily carried by a person of average or even below average strength. According to some embodiments, this may be accomplished by shoulder straps 88 (see Fig. 21). The shoulder straps 88 are attached at an upper portion 90 thereof to an upper frame segment 16 of a given frame member, and, at a lower portion 92 thereof to a lower frame segment 18 of the same given frame member. The attachment of the shoulder straps 88 to the frame segments may be fixed or detachable and done by stitching, hook-and-loop fastener connection (commonly referred to as Velcro™), buttons, snap fasteners, snap buttons, snap hooks, or any other chosen method known in the art.

[0109] Each of the shoulder straps 88 is provided with a length adjustment mechanism 94 for adjusting the length of each shoulder strap 88 according to needs of the user. Thus, the user put on each of his shoulders a shoulder strap 88 and carries the apparatus 10 like a back pack that hangs from his back. If desired, the shoulder straps 88 are provided with a chest strap 96 that connects between the two shoulder straps 88 for providing firm carrying of the apparatus 10. The chest strap 96 is typically made of two parts that are connected by a buckle 98, a hook-and-loop fastener connection, snap fasteners, snap buttons, snap hooks, or the like. The shoulder straps 88 and the chest strap 96 can be made from any suitable material, including, for example, polyester, nylon, polypropylene, and the like.

[0110] According to other embodiments, as shown in Fig. 22, the apparatus 10 is carried by a cross strap 100 that hangs across a user's chest. The cross strap 100 is connected at an upper portion 102 thereof to a first end 104 of the upper frame segment 16, and, at a lower portion 106 thereof to a second end 108 of the lower frame segment 18. Typically, the second end 108 of the lower frame segment 18 being diagonally opposite with respect to the first end 104 of the upper frame segment 16 on the first frame member 12, i.e., the upper portion 102 of the cross strap 100 is connected adjacent a first corner segment 26 of the first frame member 12, and, the lower portion 106 of the cross strap 100 is connected adjacent a third corner segment 30 of the first frame member 12.

[0111] It is not necessarily that the cross strap 100 be connected diagonally with respect to the first frame member 12. According to some embodiments, the upper portion 102 of the cross strap 100 is connected at a center of the upper frame segment 16, and, the lower portion 106 of the cross strap 100 is connected at a center of the lower frame segment 18. According to other embodiments, the upper portion 102 of the cross strap 100 is connected to any desired position along the upper frame segment 16, and, the lower portion 106 of the cross strap 100 is connected to any desired position along the lower frame segment 18.

[0112] The attachment of the cross strap 100 to the frame segments may be fixed or detachable and it may be done by stitching, hook-and-loop fastener connection, buttons, snap fasteners, snap buttons, snap hooks, or any other chosen method known in the art. The cross strap 100 is provided with a length adjustment mechanism 110 for adjusting the length of the cross strap 100 according to needs of the user. The cross strap 100 can be made from any suitable material, including, for example, polyester, nylon, polypropylene, and the like. When the cross strap 100 is attached by a detachable connection, the connection can be opened to allow cones 112, or any other desired item, to be slided onto the cross strap 100. According to certain embodiments, a padding, such as a thermo-plastic pad, or other type of cushioning can be located at some of the frame segments that are in contact with a user's back when the user is carrying the apparatus 10, thus reducing stress on the back and other portions of the user's body. The padding can be made of Neoprene, foam, orthopedic gel, or memory foam to support the mid and / or lower back.

[0113] According to certain embodiments, a water bottle holder 114 can be attached to a portion of one of the frame segments, as shown, for example, in Fig. 21. In addition, if desired, a bag 116 may be attached to one of the frame segments. The bag 116 may be of any desired size and can be sized to fit various items including, but not limited to, shoes, soccer bibs, water bottles, kits, uniforms, referee equipment, first aid kit, and the like. The bag can be attached to the frame segments using any suitable attachment mechanism, including, but not limited to, hook- and- loop fasteners, rivets, nuts / bolts, adhesive bonding, or any other temporary or permanent fastener. The bag can be of any suitable material, including natural or synthetic fabric such as canvas, and can zippered or can use any other suitable open / closing device such as hook-and-loop fasteners.

[0114] The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0115] As used herein, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance or illustration”. Any embodiment described as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments and / or to exclude the incorporation of features from other embodiments.

[0116] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0117] Although the present invention has been described to a certain degree of particularity, it should be understood that various alterations and modifications could be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as hereinafter claimed.

[0118] For example, the first frame member and the second frame member do not have to be formed from aluminum and they may be formed from other adequate materials. According to some embodiments, the first frame member and the second frame member may be formed from plastic, such as PVC, or other similar materials.

[0119] The bungee cord does not have to be held within the pipe by a knot. According to some embodiments, other attachment methods are used. For example, the free end of the bungee cord may be stapled such that the bungee cord together with the staple may slide through the outer hole, but, due to the increased diameter created by the staple, cannot slide through the inner hole. Other attachment methods may be by a ratchet, which provides an advantage when it is required to adjust the distance between the first frame member and the second frame member. The present invention is not limited to use a hole plug as shown, and other types of hole plugs may be used. Furthermore, other techniques to seal the outer hole may be applied.

[0120] The connection joints may be formed adjacent one end of each of the corner segments, in which case each frame member is made of four pieces of pipe and four connection joints. Alternatively, the corner segments may be formed from separate pieces than the rest of the pipe, in which case each frame member is made of eight pieces of pipe and eight connection joints. In these cases, the bungee cords may be attached to the inner holes of the corresponding corner segments, thus avoiding the need of outer holes, and, consequently, the need of hole plugs.

[0121] The first dimension, i.e., the length of the apparatus does not have to be fixed for a given apparatus. According to some embodiments, the length of the apparatus may be varied in order to suit holding different number of balls. The variation of the length of the apparatus may be applied by varying the length of the left and right frame segments of the first and second frame members. The length may be varied, for example, by a telescoping arrangement that enables a first part of a frame segment to slide within a second part of a frame segment, between an initial length and a maximal length that is greater that the initial length. The telescoping arrangement preferably includes a retaining mechanism for locking the first and the second part of the frame segment at an assumed length. In one example, the retaining mechanism can be implemented as a removable and replaceable pin that can be inserted through aligned holes in the overlapping first and second parts of the frame segment. In such an example, each of the first parts of the frame segment has at least one hole, and each of the second parts of the frame segment has a series of space apart holes, thereby allowing a pin to be inserted into a pair of aligned holes. In another example, the retaining mechanism can include a tightening mechanism, for example a threaded screw cap, deployed on the first part of the frame segment that is configured to engage with corresponding threading on the second part of the frame segment. The threaded screw cap can be tightened to lock in place the first and second parts of the frame segment to provide the assume length of each of the frame segments.

[0122] The upper portion and the lower portion of the cross strap do not have to be connected as shown in Fig. 22 and they may be connected to any other convenient locations on the apparatus as chosen by the manufacturer or by the user.

[0123] The apparatus does not have to be provided with four bungee cords. According to some embodiments, two adjacent bungee cords may be replaced by two non-elastic elements, thus providing between the two frame members a constant distance that is less than a diameter of a ball positioned between the two frame members.

[0124] According to some embodiments, each two adjacent bungee cords may be formed from a single cord, in which a central portion of the bungee cord passes within a frame segment. Similarly, the four bungee cords may be formed from a single bungee cord in which it passes within the frame segments.

[0125] The frame segments defining the length of the apparatus may be curved in order to better fit the apparatus of a user's back.

[0126] In some embodiments, a set of wheels may be attached to one or two frame members in order to ease the transportation of the apparatus. In a case that the apparatus comprises wheels, a carrying handle is also provided to enable rolling of the apparatus on a floor, ground, or the like.

[0127] In some embodiments, one or more apparatuses without wheels may be attached, by a fixed or detachable connection, to an apparatus having wheels, thereby enabling carrying both or more apparatuses together at the same time.

[0128] According to certain embodiments, one or more stowing arrangements can be provided at one or both of the frame members 12, 14. The stowing arrangement(s) enables the two frame members 12, 14 to be held securely one against the other when the apparatus is not in use (i.e., when no balls are positioned between the frame members 12, 14. This provides the capability to stow the apparatus in a more compact form when not in use. In certain embodiments, a handle is attached to the stowing arrangement(s), which provides easy carrying of the apparatus by the user. The stowing arrangement(s) can be implemented in various ways, including, for example, hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro™) deployed at the upper and / or lower frame segments of one or both of the frame members 12, 14.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. An apparatus (10) for picking up, holding and transporting one or more balls (82), the apparatus comprising: two frame members (12, 14) positioned parallel and opposite each other, each of the two frame members is generally rectangular in shape, made of a single unitary piece, and includes an upper frame segment (16), a lower frame segment (18), a left frame segment (20), and a right frame segment (22), and, a first (26), a second (28), a third (30), and a fourth (32) corner segments between each of the frame segments, tensioning arrangement (66) connecting between each of the corner segments of the first frame member and corresponding corner segments of the second frame member, wherein in an unstretched position of the tensioning arrangement, the first and second frame members are distanced an unstretched distance (L3) that is smaller than a ball diameter (D6), when picking up a ball, the first and second frame members are distanced a distance that is equal to the ball diameter, and after picking up the ball, the first and second frame members are distanced a distance that is smaller than the diameter of the ball and larger than the unstretched distance, and, the ball is retained within the apparatus.

2. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein the single unitary piece is made of a hollow pipe (24).

3. An apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein the two frame members (12, 14) are identical.

4. An apparatus (10) according to claim 2, wherein the single unitary piece is formed by at least one connection joint (34).

5. An apparatus (10) according to claim 4, whereinthe at least one connection joint is formed by welding or brazing.

6. An apparatus (10) according to claim 4, wherein the at least one connection joint is formed by a pressed punch connection (36).

7. An apparatus (10) according to claim 6, wherein the pressed punch connection (36) is formed by a bushing (38) inserted into an open end (40) of a first pipe end to be punched (42), the first pipe end to be punched and the bushing are press punched together to form a pressed punch connection therebetween such that they become a unitary piece that cannot be dismantled into two or more pieces, and leaving a free bushing open end (44), the bushing open end is inserted into a second pipe end to be punched (46), which is another unpunched end of the pipe or of another pipe (24), until the open end (40) of the first pipe end to be punched (42) abuts against an open end (48) of the second pipe end to be punched (46), and the second pipe end to be punched is press punched together with the bushing thus forming a pressed punch connection therebetween such that they become a unitary piece that cannot be dismantled into two or more pieces.

8. The apparatus (10) according to claim 7, wherein the bushing (38) has a bushing external diameter (D3) similar to a pipe internal diameter (D2) and slightly smaller therefrom to enable insertion of the bushing into the pipe with a tight contact between the bushing and the pipe.

9. The apparatus (10) according to claim 7, wherein the press punch connections of the first pipe end to be punched and the second pipe end to be punched are made along a first punching line (50) that is parallel to an axis (A) of the pipe.

10. The apparatus (10) according to claim 9, wherein the press punch connections of the first pipe end to be punched and the second pipe end to be punched are further made along a second punching line (52) that is parallel to the first punching line (50).

11. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein the single unitary piece cannot fall apart and cannot be dismantled by a user.

12. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises an outer hole (62) having a hole axis (Al) and a first diameter (D4), the outer hole being located on a bisector (60) of each of the corner segments (26, 28, 30, 32), on an extreme portion of a frame member outward side (56), and an inner hole (64) having a second diameter (D5) and coaxial with the hole axis, the inner hole being located on an extreme portion of a frame member inward side (54) and diametrically opposite to the outer hole, and wherein the first diameter (D4) is larger than the second diameter (D5).

13. The apparatus (10) according to claim 12, wherein the first diameter (D4) is 10 mm and the second diameter (D5) is 6.5 mm.

14. The apparatus (10) according to claim 12, wherein each tensioning arrangement (66) is pre-cut to a required length, a free end (68) of the tensioning arrangement is inserted through the inner hole (64) and out of the outer hole (62) of each frame member, a knot (70) is tied next to the free end of the tensioning arrangement, the tensioning arrangement is pulled from adjacent the inner hole and away from the outer hole such that the knot slides inwardly, through the outer hole, into an inner space (72) of the pipe, and rests on an inner wall (74) of the pipe adjacent the inner hole.

15. The apparatus (10) according to claim 14, wherein each of the outer holes is sealed by a hole plug (76).

16. The apparatus (10) according to claim 15, wherein the hole plug (76) is self-retained within the outer hole (62) by means of flexible wings (78) that bend when the hole plug is inserted into the outer hole and return to an unpressed position when the hole plug is fully inserted into the outer hole.

17. The apparatus (10) according to claim 16, wherein a rear shoulder (80) of each flexible wing abuts against the inner wall (74) of the pipe (24) thus preventing the hole plug (76) from being released.

18. An apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein the tensioning arrangement are replaceable.

19. An apparatus (10) according to claim 18, wherein a replacement of a tensioning arrangement consists of the following stages: removing the hole plug, holding the free end (68) of the tensioning arrangement by means of a dedicated extraction tool that is inserted through the outer hole, cutting the tensioning arrangement from out of the pipe, next to the inner hole (64), pulling out through the outer hole (62) the free end (68) of the tensioning arrangement and the knot, cutting a new tensioning arrangement to a required length, a free end (68) of the new tensioning arrangement is inserted through the inner hole (64) and out of the outer hole (62) of each frame member, a knot (70) is tied at the free end of the tensioning arrangement,the tensioning arrangement is pulled from adjacent the inner hole and away from the outer hole such that the knot slides inwardly, through the outer hole, into the inner space (72) of the pipe, and rests on the inner wall (74) of the pipe adjacent the inner hole.

20. The apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus is provided with shoulder straps (88) for carrying the apparatus.

21. The apparatus according to claim 20, wherein an upper portion (90) of each of the shoulder straps is attached to an upper frame segment (16) of a given frame member, and a lower portion (92) of each of the shoulder straps is attached to a lower frame segment (18) of the same given frame member.

22. The apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the shoulder straps are attached fixedly or detachably to the frame segments.

23. The apparatus according to claim 20, wherein each shoulder strap is provided with a length adjustment mechanism (94).

24. The apparatus according to claim 20, wherein a chest strap (96) connects between two shoulder straps.

25. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the apparatus is provided with a cross strap (100) for carrying the apparatus.

26. The apparatus according to claim 25, whereinan upper portion (102) of the cross strap (100) is connected to the upper frame segment (16) and a lower portion (106) of the cross strap is connected to the lower frame segment (18).

27. The apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the upper portion (102) of the cross strap is connected to a first end (104) of the upper frame segment (16), and the lower portion (106) of the cross strap is connected to a second end (108) of the lower frame segment (18), the second end being diagonally opposite with respect to the first end.

28. The apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the cross strap (100) is attached fixedly or detachably to the frame segments.

29. The apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the cross strap (100) is provided with a length adjustment mechanism (HO).

30. The apparatus according to claim 28, wherein when the cross strap (100) is connected by a detachable connection to the frame segments, the detachable connection may be opened to allow cones (112), or any other desired item, to be slided onto the cross strap.

31. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a water bottle holder (114) is attached to a portion of one of the frame segments.

32. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein a bag (116) is attached to one of the frame segments.

33. The apparatus according to claim 32, wherein the bag (116) is attached fixedly or detachably to the frame segments.

34. An apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein the balls are football or soccer balls.

35. An apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus (10) is configured for holding at most one ball (82) at a time.

36. An apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus (10) is configured for holding at most two balls (82) at a time.

37. An apparatus (10) for picking up, holding and transporting one or more balls (82), the apparatus comprising: two frame members (12, 14) positioned parallel and opposite each other, each of the two frame members is generally rectangular in shape and includes an upper frame segment (16), a lower frame segment (18), a left frame segment (20), and a right frame segment (22), and, a first (26), a second (28), a third (30), and a fourth (32) corner segments between each of the frame segments, tensioning arrangement (66) connecting between each of the corner segments of the first frame member and corresponding corner segments of the second frame member, wherein in an unstretched position of the tensioning arrangement, the first and second frame members are distanced an unstretched distance (L3) that is smaller than a ball diameter (D6), when picking up a ball, the first and second frame members are distanced a distance that is equal to the ball diameter, andafter picking up the ball, the first and second frame members are distanced a distance that is smaller than the diameter of the ball and larger than the unstretched distance, and, the ball is retained within the apparatus.

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