Padded cover

Abstract

A padded cover 20, for a tennis court net post (6 / 8, figure 1), configured to substantially surrounds the net post when in use. The padded cover comprises a sleeve wall 22 that, in use, extends substa

Description

Technical Field The present invention relates to padded covers for tennis court posts, particularly though not exclusively to padded covers that provide improved safety features. Background Art Tennis is a highly popular sport played around the world. Every year, millions of people enjoy games of tennis recreationally and / or competitively including (but not limited to) casual games amongst friends, sports clubs, grassroots games, local tournaments, national tournaments, and international tournaments including the famous grand slams (the Australian Open, the French Open, the US Open, and Wimbledon). Tennis generally requires players to have a high level of agility, speed, and precision. Players typically make swift lateral movements and abrupt directional changes as they pursue the ball. The game of tennis is typically played on a tennis court which is typically either a grass court, a hard court (generally concrete or asphalt covered with an acrylic resin, or a surface known as macadam which is made of stones mixed with tar), a clay court, or a carpet court. Tennis courts are standardized with specific dimensions, and the net is a critical component, positioned at the centre of the court and attached to two fixed posts located on either side of the court. Typically, the tennis net posts are anchored at each side of the court, slightly outside the sidelines, to provide tension and stability to the net. These net posts are typically made from sturdy materials, such as wood, metal, or hard plastic to ensure the durability and stability of the net. Additionally, while the net posts may be permanently fixed into the ground, typically a pair of sockets may be provided in the ground into which the net posts can be removably mounted. Each socket may be permanently fixed into a suitable sized hole in the ground, e.g. fixed with concrete. The socket typically provides a cavity sized and shaped for conformity with the net post. The socket may be made from a robust material, e.g. a metal such as steel, stainless steel, or aluminium. Typically, such sockets may also have a 'flap' or 'lid' (referred to herein as a 'socket flap') which can be used to cover the socket's cavity when not in use. This flap can be lifted (e.g. via a hinge) to provide access to the cavity so that the net post can be dropped into the socket. The Applicant has appreciated that the position and rigid construction of these net posts can present a significant hazard to players. As the net posts are positioned in close proximity to the play area, they pose a significant risk of physical injury. Players may inadvertently collide with the net posts during play, e.g. when moving quickly, chasing down a wide shot, or tripping near the edge of the court. In addition, the socket flaps can pose an additional risk - these can be tripped over by a player, or a player may fall onto or collide with the flap, which can cause a particularly serious injury due to its shape. Different types of injuries may occur as a result of players accidentally colliding with tennis net posts or socket flaps. These injuries can range from minor bruises, cuts, and grazes through to severe fractures, sprains, broken bones, or traumatic head injuries. The nature and severity of such an injury will depend on the force of impact and specifics of the collision. Despite these risks, few innovations have been made to address the danger posed by traditional tennis net posts. While conventional cushioning or padding could be applied to the posts, this is of limited effectiveness and may interfere with the proper tensioning of the net and / or the aesthetic and professional standards of the court. In addition, conventional padding may require buckles or straps to affix it to the net posts which are undesirable as they require additional elements and may themselves impose injury risks. Furthermore, conventional cushioning or padding would not address the issue posed by the socket flaps. The Applicant has appreciated a need for a solution that minimizes the risk of injury posed by tennis net posts and socket flaps while maintaining the structural integrity and functionality of the net. Such a solution would benefit both professional and recreational tennis players by improving court safety without compromising the quality of play. The Applicant has also appreciated that it would be desirable for such a solution to be hard-wearing against the elements, particularly as it is likely to be used outdoors where it may be exposed to adverse weather conditions (e.g. rain, snow, wind, etc.). Summary of the Invention When viewed from a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a padded cover for a tennis court net post, the padded cover being configured such that, in use, the padded cover substantially surrounds the net post, wherein the padded cover comprises: a sleeve wall that, in use, extends substantially vertically, the sleeve wall defining a cavity that extends substantially vertically from an opening at a bottom face of the padded cover, the cavity being configured to receive the net post; wherein the sleeve wall comprises a substantially vertical elongate slot configured to allow a tennis net to pass through the sleeve to the net post; wherein the sleeve wall further comprises a retaining feature configured to receive a socket flap and to retain the flap within the cavity such that the flap is substantially enclosed within the sleeve wall. Thus it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that embodiments of the present invention provide a particularly advantageous padded cover which can be affixed to a tennis net post to help prevent injuries. The padded cover is specifically configured to retain the socket flap within the cavity of the padded cover so that the injury risks posed by the socket flap poses are also mitigated by the padded cover. As there is a built-in mechanism for housing and retaining the flap within the cover, the cover does not need to 'flare out' or bulge at the base to accommodate the flap, and the flap can be held neatly. This further aids in the prevention of injuries, as the entire cover can extend straight down to the floor. In addition, the padded cover may also help to protect the net posts themselves. In addition to helping to prevent injury, the padded cover also shelters the net post from the elements, which may improve the longevity of the net post. The padded cover of the present invention may, at least in some embodiments, slide onto the net post. Rather than requiring a separate affixing means such as buckles, straps, Velcro, or the like, the padded cover of the present invention can be lifted onto and slid down the net post. This avoids the use of hard elements such as buckles which pose their own injury risk, e.g. if a player runs or trips into the buckle. Furthermore, this advantageously avoids extra elements that would otherwise add complexity and cost to the product. The retaining feature is the part of the padded cover that holds the flap securely within the footprint of the padded cover. This may be achieved by having a suitably shaped portion of the sleeve and internal cavity that can accommodate the flap. In some embodiments, the retaining feature comprises a wedge and a recess arrangement wherein, in use, the flap is retained in a section of the cavity defined by the wedge and the recess arrangement. This wedge provides a surface against which the flap can rest within the cavity of the padded cover, within the recess(es) provided. In some such embodiments, the recess arrangement is tapered such that a width of the recess arrangement increases toward the opening at the bottom face of the padded cover. This results in the recess 'pinching in' toward the top of the product, which holds the flap in place. The recess arrangement may, in some embodiments, comprise a first recess positioned on a first side of the wedge, and a second recess positioned on a second side of the wedge. The wedge may therefore be positioned centrally between the two recesses. The first and second recesses are preferably identical, but mirror images of one another (such that the depth to which each recess extends into the sleeve wall is in opposite directions to one another). The recesses may be shaped and sized to fit the socket flap. However, in some such embodiments, each recess has a respective height of between approximately 70 mm and 110 mm, optionally between approximately 80 mm and 100 mm, further optionally approximately 90 mm, yet further optionally wherein each recess has a respective height of 90 mm. In some potentially overlapping embodiments, each recess has a respective depth of between approximately 5 mm and 15 mm, optionally between approximately 8 mm and 12 mm, further optionally approximately 10 mm, yet further optionally wherein each recess has a respective depth of 10 mm. The wedge may similarly be shaped and sized to fit the socket flap. In some embodiments, the wedge has a height of between approximately 70 mm and 110 mm, optionally between approximately 80 mm and 100 mm, further optionally approximately 90 mm, yet further optionally wherein the wedge has a height of 90 mm. In some potentially overlapping embodiments, the wedge has a depth of between approximately 70 mm and 110 mm, optionally between approximately 80 mm and 100 mm, further optionally approximately 90 mm, yet further optionally wherein the wedge has a depth of 90 mm. In some further potentially overlapping embodiments, the wedge has a width of between approximately 20 mm and 40 mm, optionally between approximately 25 mm and 35 mm, further optionally approximately 30 mm, yet further optionally wherein the wedge has a width of 30 mm. The angle of the wedge may be chosen as appropriate for a given socket flap such that the socket flap can be properly held within the padded cover. In some embodiments, an angle between the wedge and the sleeve wall is between approximately 10° and 40°, optionally between approximately 15° and 25°, further optionally approximately 20°, optionally wherein the angle is 20°. The Applicant has appreciated that this angle is well-suited to conventional flaps on net post sockets, which tend to extend approximately 3 cm out from the net post. Generally, net post sockets are installed such that the flap hinges away from the net post in the direction opposite that of the tennis net. In other words, when the flap is 'open' to allow the net post to be inserted into the socket, it is positioned opposite to and extending away from the tennis net (when in place). As such, in some embodiments, the wedge is positioned opposite the substantially vertical elongate slot. This configuration means that the wedge is positioned correctly for the flap when in use. Of course, with a different socket design (e.g. one where the flap hinges perpendicular to the net), the wedge may be positioned accordingly. The padded cover generally provides a 'cushioning' effect, reducing the impact of collisions with the net post relative to a collision with the net post without the padded cover. The material that the padded cover, and in particular the sleeve wall, is constructed from may be chosen as appropriate to provide this effect. However, in some embodiments, the sleeve wall comprises a resiliently deformable material. In some such embodiments, the resiliently deformable material comprises a foam material. In a particular set of such embodiments, the sleeve wall comprises an integral skin foam material. The use of a resiliently deformable integral skin foam material for a protective tennis post cover is novel and inventive in its own right and thus, when viewed from a second aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a padded cover for a tennis court net post, the padded cover being configured such that, in use, the padded cover substantially surrounds the net post, wherein the padded cover comprises: a sleeve wall that, in use, extends substantially vertically, the sleeve wall defining a cavity that extends substantially vertically from an opening at a bottom face of the padded cover, the cavity being configured to receive the net post; wherein the sleeve wall comprises a substantially vertical elongate slot configured to allow a tennis net to pass through the sleeve to the net post; wherein the sleeve wall comprises an integral skin foam material, wherein the integral skin foam material is resiliently deformable. An integral skin foam (sometimes referred to as a 'self-skinning foam') is a dual-layer structure where the material forms a foam core surrounded by a harder crust-like skin - akin to a loaf of bread. Integral skin foams are particularly advantageous for a number of reasons, as explained below. In some embodiments of either of the foregoing aspects, the integral skin foam material comprises integral skin polyurethane foam. Integral skin foams may provide an enhanced protective effect - the impact-absorbing properties of the foam core combined with the tough, elastic, robust outer skin is an outstanding feature. The skin may have tear-resistant properties, helping to withstand damage to the product. The skin may also exhibit better friction properties compared to the inner foam, such that the skin may provide a reduced coefficient of friction. This reduction in friction leading to a reduction in injury in the event of collision. The skin, which is preferably non-porous, may prevent the ingress of air, dust, and / or liquid into the product, thereby improving the longevity of the product. Integral skin foam materials may also provide environmental benefits. Such foam materials (e.g. integral skin polyurethane foam) may be recyclable. Such integral skin foam materials are also sustainable materials, and their production results in relatively low carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. In addition, any securing parts (if included, e.g. magnets, as outlined below) can be integrated into the foam of the product during its manufacture. Integral skin foams may also provide enhanced aesthetic properties owing to the consistent finish that the skin can provide. The skin may, for example, have a smooth or textured finish. The sleeve wall may be integrally formed, i.e. made as a single continuous unit rather than a composite construction of multiple parts joined together. Where an integral skin foam, such as integral skin polyurethane foam, is used to form the sleeve wall, the entire sleeve wall may be formed as a single piece as part of a casting process. Embodiments of the present invention advantageously may not necessarily require any kind of securing means to secure the padded cover to the net post. However, in some embodiments, the padded cover comprises securing means. In some such embodiments, the securing means comprises a magnetic arrangement configured to magnetically attach the padded cover to the net post. This may be particularly advantageous where the net post comprises a magnetic material, e.g. a metal. The magnetic arrangement may comprise a plurality of magnets, which may be located on or within the sleeve wall. When the padded cover is positioned on the net post, the magnets may be attracted to the net post. The vertical elongate slot provides a hole through which the net can pass, such that the padded cover does not interfere with the net. In some embodiments, the substantially vertical elongate slot extends to the bottom face of the padded cover. Such an arrangement allows the net to drop completely to the floor of the court. Preferably, the depth of the elongate slot is less than the depth of the cavity (i.e. when looked at face on, the elongate slot does not extend completely side-to-side on the face of the protective cover it is cut into) such that the sleeve wall comprises a lipped portion broken by the elongate slot. Such an arrangement advantageously helps to allow the padded cover to 'grip' the net post. A net post may have a 'net winder' provided on it, where the net winder acts as a winch to apply tension to the net. A typical net winder includes a handle (which might be removable) which can be turned to tighten the net between the two posts. Generally, the posts may not be identical, with the net winder only being provided on one (with the other net post being passive in this regard). In some embodiments, the sleeve wall comprises an aperture configured to, in use, provide access to a net winder on the net post. The provision of a cover with an aperture for a net winder is novel and inventive in its own right and thus, when viewed from a third aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a padded cover for a tennis court net post, the padded cover being configured such that, in use, the padded cover substantially surrounds the net post, wherein the padded cover comprises: a sleeve wall that, in use, extends substantially vertically, the sleeve wall defining a cavity that extends substantially vertically from an opening at a bottom face of the padded cover, the cavity being configured to receive the net post; wherein the sleeve wall comprises a substantially vertical elongate slot configured to allow a tennis net to pass through the sleeve to the net post; and wherein the sleeve wall comprises an aperture configured to, in use, provide access to a net winder on the net post. The sleeve wall surrounding this aperture may, in some embodiments, be shaped to allow full rotation of a handle of the net winder. This may, for example, be achieved by providing an indentation around the aperture. Generally, the sleeve wall is shaped to conform to the shape of a conventional net post. Typically, net posts have a rectangular cross section and thus, at least in some embodiments, the sleeve wall is of substantially rectangular cross section. In some potentially overlapping embodiments, the cavity is of substantially rectangular cross section. In some potentially overlapping embodiments, the sleeve wall has one or more rounded corners. In some such embodiments, each rounded corner has a respective radius of between approximately 5 mm and 15 mm, optionally between approximately 8 mm and 12 mm, further optionally approximately 10 mm, yet further optionally wherein each rounded corner has a respective radius of 10 mm. In an alternative set of embodiments, the sleeve wall is of substantially circular cross section. In a potentially overlapping set of embodiments, the cavity is of substantially circular cross section. While net posts with a circular cross section are less common than net posts with a rectangular cross section, the principles of the present invention similarly apply to such circular net posts. In some embodiments, the cavity has a depth of between approximately 50 mm and 90 mm, optionally between approximately 60 mm and 80 mm, further optionally approximately 70 mm, yet further optionally wherein the cavity has a depth of 70 mm. In some potentially overlapping embodiments, the cavity has a width of between approximately 70 mm and 110 mm, optionally between approximately 80 mm and 100 mm, further optionally approximately 90 mm, yet further optionally wherein the cavity has a width of 90 mm. In some embodiments, the padded cover has a depth of between approximately 100 mm and 160 mm, optionally between approximately 120 mm and 140 mm, further optionally approximately 130 mm, yet further optionally wherein the padded cover has a depth of 130 mm. In some potentially overlapping embodiments, the padded cover has a width of between approximately 120 mm and 180 mm, optionally between approximately 140 mm and 160 mm, further optionally approximately 150 mm, yet further optionally wherein the padded cover has a width of 150 mm. In some further potentially overlapping embodiments, the padded cover has a height of between approximately 800 mm and 1400 mm, optionally between approximately 1000 mm and 1200 mm, further optionally approximately 1100 mm, yet further optionally wherein the padded cover has a height of 1100 mm. In some embodiments, the cavity extends partially through the height of the sleeve wall such that the sleeve wall comprises a cap portion that, in use, is positioned atop the net post. In some such embodiments, the cap portion has a thickness of between approximately 10 mm and 30 mm, optionally between approximately 15 mm and 25 mm, further optionally approximately 20 mm, yet further optionally wherein the cap portion has a thickness of 20 mm. In an alternative set of embodiments, however, the cavity extends completely through the height of the sleeve wall. In such embodiments, the padded cover has an 'open' construction akin to a tube (of any appropriate cross-section, not necessarily circular). In some embodiments, the sleeve wall has a thickness of between approximately 10 mm and 40 mm, optionally between approximately 20 mm and 30 mm, further optionally approximately 20 mm or 30 mm, yet further optionally wherein the sleeve wall has a thickness of 20 mm or 30 mm. When viewed from a fourth aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a tennis court safety system, the tennis court safety system comprising first and second padded covers, each configured to be respectively positioned on first and second net posts of a tennis court, wherein each of the first and second padded covers respectively comprises a padded cover of any embodiment of any of the foregoing aspects described hereinabove. When viewed from a fifth aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a tennis net post arrangement comprising: a first net post; a second net post; a first net post socket comprising a first socket flap; a second net post socket comprising a second socket flap; and the tennis court safety system of any embodiment of the fourth aspect of the invention wherein, in use, the retaining features of the first and second padded covers retain the first and second socket flaps respectively. In some embodiments, the tennis net post arrangement further comprises the tennis net. In some embodiments of the fourth or fifth aspect of the invention, the sleeve wall of the first padded cover comprises an aperture configured to, in use, provide access to a net winder on the first net post; and wherein the sleeve wall of the second padded cover does not comprise such an aperture. Within this specification, the terms 'width', 'depth', and 'height' are used to describe the extents of the product in three-dimensional space (3D). Consider a Cartesian coordinate system with three orthogonal axes: the x-axis; y-axis; and z-axis. Mapping this to a tennis court, the x-axis is the direction within the plane of the tennis court that runs perpendicular to the net (i.e. from baseline to baseline) - the term 'depth' as used herein refers to the extent along that x-axis. The y-axis is the direction within the plane of the tennis court that runs parallel to the net - the term 'width' as used herein refers to the extent along that y-axis. The z-axis is the axis normal to the plane of the court surface, i.e. pointing up from the court surface towards the sky - the term 'height' as used herein refers to the extent along that z-axis. In the context of this specification "comprising" is to be interpreted as "including". Approximately as employed herein is defined as ± 10%. Optional features set out in respect of any aspect of the invention are also applicable to the other aspects of the invention as appropriate. Each of the different embodiments, alone and in combination with one another, set out above are applicable to each of the different aspects of the invention, as appropriate. Aspects of the invention comprising certain elements are also intended to extend to alternative embodiments "consisting" or "consisting essentially" of the relevant elements. Where technically appropriate, embodiments of the invention may be combined. Embodiments are described herein as comprising certain features / elements. The disclosure also extends to separate embodiments consisting or consisting essentially of said features / elements. Technical references such as patents and applications are incorporated herein by reference. Any embodiments specifically and explicitly recited herein may form the basis of a disclaimer either alone or in combination with one or more further embodiments. Brief Description of the Drawings Certain embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrative of a conventional tennis court; Figs. 2A-G are respectively schematic diagrams showing perspective, back, front, left, right, bottom, and top views of a padded cover for a tennis net post in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a further view of the padded cover showing the flap retaining feature in more detail; Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a yet further view of the padded cover showing the net winder aperture in more detail; and Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrative of a conventional tennis court fitting with padded covers in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Description Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrative of a conventional tennis court 2. The tennis court 2 may be, for example, any one of: a grass court; a hard court (e.g. concrete or asphalt covered with an acrylic resin, or a macadam court); a clay court; or a carpet court. This tennis court 2 is not drawn to scale but may have the standard dimensions set out by the International Tennis Federation (ITF), or custom dimensions if appropriate. Those familiar with tennis will recognise that the tennis court 2 is divided into two identical ends, and is marked out with the standard markings associated with the game of tennis to delineate the service box, service line, centre service line, deuce court, advantage court, back court, tramlines, centre mark, baselines, etc. A tennis net 4 is positioned at the centre of the court 2 and is attached to two fixed posts 6, 8 which are located on either side of the court 2. These posts 6, 8 are respectively located in respective sockets 10,12 which in turn are permanently fixed into the ground of the court 2. For ease of reference, a Cartesian coordinate system showing the x-, y-, and z-axes is illustrated, the x-axis is the direction within the plane of the tennis court 2 that runs perpendicular to the net 4 (i.e. from baseline to baseline) - the term 'depth' as used herein refers to the extent along that x-axis. The y-axis is the direction within the plane of the tennis court 2 that runs parallel to the net 4 - the term 'width' as used herein refers to the extent along that y-axis. The z-axis is the axis normal to the plane of the surface of the court 2, i.e. pointing upward from the surface of the tennis court 2 towards the sky - the term 'height' as used herein refers to the extent along that z-axis. Conventionally, the net posts 6, 8 are anchored in those sockets 10,12 at each side of the court 2, slightly outside the sidelines, to provide tension and stability to the net 4. These net posts 6, 8 are typically made from sturdy materials, such as wood, metal, or hard plastic to ensure the durability and stability of the tennis net 4. The sockets 10,12 are rectangular in cross section, as are the net posts 6, 8 which fit into them. The sockets 10, 12 are each supplied with a respective hinged flap 14, 16, which can cover the socket 10,12 when the posts 6, 8 are removed. One net post 6 is provided with a net winder 18 which can be used to tension the net 4 by rotating the handle of the winder 18. The other net post 8 does not have a net winder. Generally, the net winder 18 may be removed from the post 6, however some users or tennis clubs choose to leave the net winder 18 attached. Figs. 2A-G are respectively schematic diagrams showing perspective, back, front, left, right, bottom, and top views of a padded cover 20 for a tennis net post 6, 8 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The padded cover 20 shown is, in this particular embodiment, suited to the post 6 with a net winder 18 as explained above, though as outlined below a modified version may be more appropriate for the post 8 without a net winder. The padded cover is arranged to be positioned over a net post 6, 8 to provide a cushioning layer around the net post such that in the event a person collides with the net post, the risk and severity of injury resulting from that collision is significantly reduced. The cover 20 is arranged to substantially surrounds the net post 6, 8, save for portions of the post 6, 8 that are necessarily exposed, e.g. as a result of the cut away portions for the net 4 and the net winder 18. In the view of Fig. 2A, the cover 20 is laid face down such that its general profile can be seen. The other views of Figs. 2B-G provide views of certain features of the cover 20, as explained below. The body of the cover 20 is entirely made of a sleeve wall 22 which is formed as a single piece, i.e. it is of integral construction. The sleeve wall 22 is made of an integral skin polyurethane foam, e.g. using a casting process where it forms within an appropriately shaped mould. As explained previously, this material provides a number of significant benefits when used for a tennis post cover. These include: improved resistance to damage; impermeability to water, dust, air, etc.; recyclability; being a sustainable material; aesthetic properties; and more. This material is resiliently deformable, i.e. it returns to its original shape after being deformed. This is owing to the elastomeric properties of the integral skin polyurethane foam material. This allows the sleeve wall 22 to provide cushioning, absorbing some of the force of impact when a person collides with the net post 6, 8. The sleeve wall 22, when installed on the net post 6, 8, extends substantially vertically. In other words, the sleeve wall 22 points upwards from the surface of the tennis court 2, i.e. in the direction of the z-axis. The sleeve wall 22 defines a cavity 24 that extends substantially vertically from an opening 26 at a bottom face of the padded cover, as can be seen in the bottom view of Fig. 2F. This cavity 24 is where the net post 6, 8 enters and sits within the cover 20. The cavity 24 extends up through most of the height of the padded cover 20, but the sleeve wall 22 is closed at the other end, i.e. at the top, as can be seen in the top view of Fig. 2G. The sleeve wall 22 and the cavity 24 within it are both of rectangular cross-section, with the cavity 24 being designed to closely conform to the shape of the net posts 6, 8. The padded cover 20 is, in this particular embodiment, 150 mm wide (in the x-direction), 130 mm deep (in the y-direction), and 1100 mm tall (in the z-direction). The cavity 24, which does not extend the whole way through to the top of the cover 20, is 90 mm wide, 70 mm deep, and 1080 mm tall, which leaves the cap portion (the top part of the sleeve wall 22 that sits atop the net post 6, 8) 20 mm thick. Generally, the thickness of the sleeve wall 22 is between 20 mm and 30 mm, where the full thickness of the sleeve wall 22 is 30 mm but may be reduced to 20 mm in areas where, for example recesses are cut into the sleeve wall 22. It will be appreciated, however, that alternatively the cavity 24 could extend the whole way through the cavity padded cover 20 such that it is of an open, tubular construction with no such cap portion. The sleeve wall 22 has, running down the height of its front face, a substantially vertical elongate slot 28 -this can be seen clearly in the front view of Fig. 2C. This slot 28 is arranged so as to allow the tennis net 4 to pass through the sleeve wall 22 to the net post 6, 8. When installed on the net post 6, 8, this slot 28 is aligned with the x-axis, i.e. it is aligned parallel to the net 4 and baselines of the tennis court 2. The slot 28 starts toward the top of the sleeve wall 22 and drops the full remaining height of the sleeve wall 22 to the floor, which allows the net 4 to drop fully to the floor of the tennis court 2 without interference. The depth of the slot 28 is less than the depth of the cavity 24 such that the sleeve wall 22 has a lipped portion 23 which helps the padded cover 20 to 'grip' the net post 6, 8. The sleeve wall 22 has a retaining feature 30 for holding the flap 14,16 of the socket 10,12. The retaining feature 30 is designed to retain the flap 14,16 within the cavity 24 such that the flap 14,16 is enclosed within the sleeve wall 22. The retaining feature 30 can be seen more readily with reference to Fig. 3, which is a schematic diagram illustrating a further view of the padded cover 20 showing the flap retaining feature 30 in more detail. The retaining feature 30 comprises a wedge 32 that provides a ramp into the cavity 34, as well as a pair of recesses 34 cut into the sides of the sleeve wall 22 either side of the wedge 32. The effective width (in the x-direction) of the cavity 24 is therefore greater towards the bottom of the sleeve wall 22 and reduces toward the top of the sleeve wall 22 (i.e. when moving in the z-direction). The wedge 32 and recesses 34 are shaped to cooperate with the flap 14,16 such that when the flap 14, 16 is lifted (so as to allow the post 6, 8 to sit in the socket 10,12), there is space within the cavity 24 for the flap 14,16 to fit. The wedge 32 is angled so as to accommodate the flap 14,16 which typically sits at an angle, resting against the post 6, 8. The recesses 34 provide enough depth for the full extent of the flap 14, 16 in the y-direction to sit within the cavity 24. As can be seen in Fig. 2A and Fig. 3, the wedge 32 is positioned on the back surface of the sleeve wall 22, i.e. opposite the elongate slot 28 on the front surface of the sleeve wall 22. The specific shape, dimensions, and angle of the parts of the retaining feature 30 can be selected to accommodate a specific design of flap. However, in this particular embodiment, the wedge 32 has a height of 90 mm, a depth of 90 mm, and a width of 30 mm. The angle between the wedge 32 and the sleeve wall 12 22 (i.e. its front and back surfaces) is 20°. Each recess 34 has a respective height of 90 mm and a respective depth of 10 mm. A further aperture 36 is provided on the front surface of the sleeve wall 22 which allows access to the net winder 18 when the cover 20 is installed on the net post 6 that has the net winder 18. This can be seen more readily with reference to the back view of Fig. 2B and in Fig. 4, which is a schematic diagram illustrating a yet further view of the padded cover 20 showing the net winder aperture 36 in more detail. The sleeve wall 22 is shaped with an indentation 38 surrounding this aperture 36 so as to allow full rotation of the handle of the net winder 18. This advantageously allows the net 4 to be tensioned using the net winder 18 even when the padded cover 20 is in place on the net post 6. It will be appreciated, however, that the aperture 36 and surrounding indentation 38 is not necessary where the padded cover is to be used on a net post without a net winder (or where a net winder is provided but the user does not need to access it while the cover 20 is in use), e.g. the net post 8 described above. As such, the aperture 36 and surrounding indentation may be omitted. A pair of padded covers 20 may be supplied where one cover has the net winder aperture 36 for use with the net post 6 with the net winder 18; and another cover has no such aperture. Where the aperture 36 is not needed, omitting that aperture 36 avoids exposing the net post to users and to the elements unnecessarily. The corners of the sleeve wall 22 are rounded to further reduce injury. In this particular embodiment, the corners have a radius of 10 mm, though it will be appreciated that a different radius could readily be used (or the corners could be right angles, chamfered, etc. instead). Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrative of the tennis court 2 having been fitted with a pair of padded covers 20, 20' in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Reference numerals with dashed lead lines indicate that the relevant element is obscured from view in Fig. 5 but are nevertheless indicative of the position of those obscured elements. As can be seen, the padded cover 20 described above is fitted onto the net post 6 with the net winder 18. A second padded cover 20' without the aperture 36 and surrounding indentation is fitted onto the other net post 8, i.e. the one without the net winder. These padded covers 20, 20' surround the respective net post 6, 8 as well completely enclose the socket flaps 14,16 on the ground. This arrangement not only helps to prevent injury from collision with the net posts 6, 8 but also alleviates the hazards posed by the flaps 14, 16. As can be seen in Fig. 5, the tennis net 4 passes through the elongate slots 28 (not labelled in Fig. 5 for ease of illustration) on the covers 20, 20' uninhibited. While specific embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described in detail are not limiting on the scope of the claimed invention.

Claims

1. A padded cover for a tennis court net post, the padded cover being configured such that, in use, the padded cover substantially surrounds the net post, wherein the padded cover comprises:a sleeve wall that, in use, extends substantially vertically, the sleeve wall defining a cavity that extends substantially vertically from an opening at a bottom face of the padded cover, the cavity being configured to receive the net post;wherein the sleeve wall comprises a substantially vertical elongate slot configured to allow a tennis net to pass through the sleeve to the net post;wherein the sleeve wall further comprises a retaining feature configured to receive a socket flap and to retain the flap within the cavity such that the flap is substantially enclosed within the sleeve wall.

2. The padded cover as claimed in claim 1, wherein the retaining feature comprises a wedge and a recess arrangement wherein, in use, the flap is retained in a section of the cavity defined by the wedge and the recess arrangement.

3. The padded cover as claimed in claim 2, wherein the recess arrangement is tapered such that a width of the recess arrangement increases toward the opening at the bottom face of the padded cover.

4. The padded cover as claimed in claim 2 or 3, wherein the recess arrangement comprises a first recess positioned on a first side of the wedge, and a second recess positioned on a second side of the wedge.

5. The padded cover as claimed in claim 4, wherein:each recess has a respective height of between approximately 70 mm and 110 mm, optionally between approximately 80 mm and 100 mm, further optionally approximately 90 mm, yet further optionally wherein each recess has a respective height of 90 mm; and / oreach recess has a respective depth of between approximately 5 mm and 15 mm, optionally between approximately 8 mm and 12 mm, further optionally approximately 10 mm, yet further optionally wherein each recess has a respective depth of 10 mm.6.The padded cover as claimed in any of claims 2 to 5, wherein:the wedge has a height of between approximately 70 mm and 110 mm, optionally between approximately 80 mm and 100 mm, further optionally approximately 90 mm, yet further optionally wherein the wedge has a height of 90 mm; and / orthe wedge has a depth of between approximately 70 mm and 110 mm, optionally between approximately 80 mm and 100 mm, further optionally approximately 90 mm, yet further optionally wherein the wedge has a depth of 90 mm; and / orthe wedge has a width of between approximately 20 mm and 40 mm, optionally between approximately 25 mm and 35 mm, further optionally approximately 30 mm, yet further optionally wherein the wedge has a width of 30 mm.

7. The padded cover as claimed in any of claims 2 to 6, wherein an angle between the wedge and the sleeve wall is between approximately 10° and 40°, optionally between approximately 15° and 25°, further optionally approximately 20°, optionally wherein the angle is 20°.

8. The padded cover as claimed in any of claims 2 to 7, wherein the wedge is positioned opposite the substantially vertical elongate slot.

9. The padded cover as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve wall comprises a resiliently deformable material, optionally wherein the resiliently deformable material comprises a foam material.

10. The padded cover as claimed in claim 9, wherein the sleeve wall comprises an integral skin foam material.

11. A padded cover for a tennis court net post, the padded cover being configured such that, in use, the padded cover substantially surrounds the net post, wherein the padded cover comprises:a sleeve wall that, in use, extends substantially vertically, the sleeve wall defining a cavity that extends substantially vertically from an opening at a bottom face of the padded cover, the cavity being configured to receive the net post;wherein the sleeve wall comprises a substantially vertical elongate slot configured to allow a tennis net to pass through the sleeve to the net post; andwherein the sleeve wall comprises an integral skin foam material, wherein the integral skin foam material is resiliently deformable.

12. The padded cover as claimed in claim 10 or 11, wherein the integral skin foam material comprises integral skin polyurethane foam.

13. The padded cover as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the substantially vertical elongate slot extends to the bottom face of the padded cover.

14. The padded cover as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve wall comprises an aperture configured to, in use, provide access to a net winder on the net post.

15. A padded cover for a tennis court net post, the padded cover being configured such that, in use, the padded cover substantially surrounds the net post, wherein the padded cover comprises:a sleeve wall that, in use, extends substantially vertically, the sleeve wall defining a cavity that extends substantially vertically from an opening at a bottom face of the padded cover, the cavity being configured to receive the net post;wherein the sleeve wall comprises a substantially vertical elongate slot configured to allow a tennis net to pass through the sleeve to the net post; andwherein the sleeve wall comprises an aperture configured to, in use, provide access to a net winder on the net post.

16. The padded cover as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve wall and / or the cavity is of substantially rectangular cross section.

17. The padded cover as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve wall has one or more rounded corners;optionally wherein each rounded corner has a respective radius of between approximately 5 mm and 15 mm, optionally between approximately 8 mm and 12 mm, further optionally approximately 10 mm, yet further optionally wherein each rounded corner has a respective radius of 10 mm.

18. The padded cover as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein:the cavity has a depth of between approximately 50 mm and 90 mm, optionally between approximately 60 mm and 80 mm, further optionally approximately 70 mm, yet further optionally wherein the cavity has a depth of 70 mm; and / orthe cavity has a width of between approximately 70 mm and 110 mm, optionally between approximately 80 mm and 100 mm, further optionally approximately 90 mm, yet further optionally wherein the cavity has a width of 90 mm.

19. The padded cover as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein:the padded cover has a depth of between approximately 100 mm and 160 mm, optionally between approximately 120 mm and 140 mm, further optionally approximately 130 mm, yet further optionally wherein the padded cover has a depth of 130 mm; and / orthe padded cover has a width of between approximately 120 mm and 180 mm, optionally between approximately 140 mm and 160 mm, further optionally approximately 150 mm, yet further optionally wherein the padded cover has a width of 150 mm; and / orthe padded cover has a height of between approximately 800 mm and 1400 mm, optionally between approximately 1000 mm and 1200 mm, further optionally approximately 1100 mm, yet further optionally wherein the padded cover has a height of 1100 mm.

20. The padded cover as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the cavity extends partially through the height of the sleeve wall such that the sleeve wall comprises a cap portion that, in use, is positioned atop the net post.

21. The padded cover as claimed in claim 20, wherein the cap portion has a thickness of between approximately 10 mm and 30 mm, optionally between approximately 15 mm and 25 mm, further optionally approximately 20 mm, yet further optionally wherein the cap portion has a thickness of 20 mm.

22. The padded cover as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve wall has a thickness of between approximately 10 mm and 40 mm, optionally between approximately 20 mm and 30 mm, further optionally approximately 20 mm or 30 mm, yet further optionally wherein the sleeve wall has a thickness of 20 mm or 30 mm.

23. A tennis court safety system, the tennis court safety system comprising first and second padded covers, each configured to be respectively positioned on first and second net posts of a tennis court, wherein each of the first and second padded covers respectively comprises a padded cover as claimed in any of claims 1 to 22.

24. A tennis net post arrangement comprising:a first net post;a second net post;a first net post socket comprising a first socket flap;a second net post socket comprising a second socket flap; andthe tennis court safety system as claimed in claim 23 when dependent on claim 1 wherein, in use, the retaining features of the first and second padded covers retain the first and second socket flaps respectively;optionally wherein the tennis net post arrangement further comprises the tennis net.

25. The tennis court safety system as claimed in claim 23 or the tennis net post arrangement as claimed in claim 24, wherein the sleeve wall of the first padded cover comprises an aperture configured to, in use, provide access to a net winder on the first net post; and wherein the sleeve wall of the second padded cover does not comprise such an aperture.21

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