Disc golf goal with adjustability for height and sloping terrain

Abstract

A disc golf goal includes a multi-leg base with a central hub adjustably mounting proximate ends of the legs. A column is mounted on the hub and extends upwardly therefrom. The column adjustably, concentrically mounts a wireframe receptacle. A chain hanger panel is adjustably, concentrically mounted above the receptacle. Multiple chains are fastened to the chain hanger panel and depend downwardly therefrom. The chains are configured to break the flight of a claim disc, which drops into the receptacle.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application is a non-Provisional of and claims priority in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 555,591, filed Feb. 20, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates generally to recreational devices, and in particular to a disc golf goal with adjustability for height and sloping terrain.2. Description of the Related Art

[0003] Disc golf is a rapidly growing sport which combines the appeal of throwing flying discs and golf in a competitive game. Many communities have disc golf courses. Moreover, disc golf tournaments are popular for enabling players to compete.

[0004] A challenge of disc golf relates to throwing the flying discs into baskets, which serve as goals, in various terrain. For example, throws may be level, uphill or downhill. The basket goals can be mounted at different heights.

[0005] Heretofore there has not been available a system or method for disc golf training and play with the advantages and features of the present invention.BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present invention generally provides a recreational device including a goal basket or target with multiple deflection control chains. The basket is mounted on a base with a column or standard, which can be adjustable for height and pitch. Preferably, the column is approximately vertically plumb to accommodate a level, generally horizontal basket.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The attached drawings show an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, including its construction details.

[0008] FIG. 1 is an upper, perspective view of a disc golf goal embodying an aspect of the present invention.

[0009] FIG. 2 is an upper, perspective view of a base and support column assembly thereof.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTSI. Introduction and Environment

[0010] As required, detailed aspects of the present invention are disclosed herein, however, it is to be understood that the disclosed aspects are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art how to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure.

[0011] Certain terminology will be used in the following description for convenience in reference only and will not be limiting. For example, up, down, front, back, right and left refer to the invention as orientated in the view being referred to. The words, “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the aspect being described and designated parts thereof. Said terminology will include the words specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof and words of similar meaning.II. Preferred Embodiment Disc Golf Goal with Adjustability for Height and Sloping Terrain

[0012] As shown in the attached drawings, the present invention comprises a disc golf goal 2 configured for adjustment to accommodate placing a basket assembly 4 on a vertical column or standard 6 at various heights. The column 6 is mounted on a tripod base 8 which is adjustable to accommodate sloping terrain. The goal 2 is easily transportable by detaching the basket assembly 4 and folding the supporting legs 10 of the base 8. In an assembled configuration, e.g. on a disc golf course, the goal 2 can be anchored with suitable ground-penetrating stakes 12. Alternatively, a more permanent mounting can be achieved with a suitable concrete pad or piers, to which the tripod base 8 can be bolted or otherwise securely fastened.

[0013] The goal can easily be taken down for transport or storage. Multiple goals can be positioned along courses to simulate actual gameplay, or to serve in competitive disc golf tournaments.

[0014] The basket assembly 4 includes a basket 20 concentrically, vertically-adjustably mounted on the column 6 and forming an upwardly-open receptacle 22. A generally circular chain hanger panel is vertically, adjustably attached at its center to the column 6. Multiple chains 25 are mounted on the chain hanger panel 24 and functionally break the momentum of flying discs 26a. The chains 25 minimize deflection whereby the discs could bounce away from the goal basket 20. On striking the chains 25, the flying discs 26a drop into the receptacle 22 and are retained therein, as shown at 26b., In lieu of the chains 25, other flexible members, such as cables, ropes and straps can be utilized. Still further, strings of lights can be extended through the chains 25 for improved nighttime target visibility and dramatic, moving light effects when struck by discs 26a.

[0015] It should further be noted that the invention may be made of plastic, silicone, metal, wood, ceramic, or other material. It may be made via 3D printing, milling, sintering, stamping, bending, casting, forging, injection molding, or other means.

[0016] Sloping terrain can be accommodated by pivotally mounting the legs 10 to a lower end 7 of the column with suitable toggle clamp fasteners 28. Vertical adjustability is achieved by slidably mounting the basket 20 in the chain hanger panel 24 on the column 6, e.g., with set screws. Moreover, the column 6 can comprise multiple, individual sections 30 with telescoping end connections, including pins 34 received in slots 32 for retention. Other suitable fasteners can be utilized for joining the column sections 30, such as spring-loaded pins received in receivers, threaded connections and cotter keys.

[0017] In operation, the disc golf goal 2 can be conveniently transported in a disassembled configuration to a desired location for disc golf practice or play. The legs 10 are unfolded and secured in desired angular orientations relative to the column 6, which is preferably approximately plumb vertically. The basket 20 is then placed and secured at a desired height on the column 6 and the chain hanger panel 24 is placed thereover. The chains 25 can be removable, or permanently affixed to the chain hanger panel 24.

[0018] Adjusting the vertical separation between the basket 20 and the chain hanger panel 24 can increase / decrease the target size. For example, smaller targets and greater throw distances require greater accuracy and skill. The disc golf goal can thus be used for training player participants by progressively decreasing target sizes and increasing throw distances.

[0019] It is to be understood that while certain embodiments and / or aspects of the invention have been shown and described, the invention is not limited thereto and encompasses various other embodiments and aspects.

Claims

1. A disc golf goal for capturing flying discs comprising:a base with a center hub and multiple legs;each leg including proximal and distal ends;said hub including multiple toggle clamp assemblies each configured for adjustably, fixedly attaching a leg proximate end to said hub;a column comprising multiple sections configured for interconnection;said column mounted on said base hub and extending upwardly therefrom;a generally circular receptacle concentrically, adjustably mounted on said column;a generally circular chain hanger panel concentrically, adjustably mounted on said column above said receptacle; andmultiple chains connected to said chain hanger panel and depending downwardly therefrom.

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