Portable Basketball Goal System with Improved Height Adjustment Mechanism

Abstract

A portable basketball goal assembly and the height adjustment mechanism used within that assembly. The portable basketball goal has a base and a pole assembly that extends upwardly from the base. The pole assembly includes a first pole section and a second pole section in a telescopic arrangement. A height adjustment mechanism is positioned inside the pole assembly. The height adjustment mechanism has a threaded shaft, a gearbox for turning said threaded shaft, and a turnbuckle frame that engages said threaded shaft, wherein the turnbuckle frame moves in relation to the gearbox as the threaded shaft turns. The gearbox is affixed to the first pole section inside of the first pole section. The turnbuckle frame is affixed to the second pole section inside of the second pole section. As the gearbox turns the threaded shaft, the second pole section moves relative to the first pole section. As such, the pole assembly can be selectively lengthened and shortened.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field Of The Invention

[0001] In general, the present invention relates to portable basketball goal assemblies that have backboards and hoops that can be adjusted in height. More particularly, the present invention relates to the mechanisms that control the height adjustment of the backboard and hoop.2. Prior Art Description

[0002] Many people own portable basketball goal assemblies. These types of assemblies typically have a pole that is mounted to a portable base. The pole holds a basketball hoop and a backboard above a portable base. The base is typically filled with water, sand, or gel to stabilize the basketball goal assembly and ensure that the assembly does not fall over during play.

[0003] The regulation height for a basketball hoop is ten feet. However, young players often have difficulty shooting a basketball to that height. As such, many portable basketball goal assemblies have height adjustments that enable the hoop to be selectively lowered. Many basketball goal assemblies that are adjustable in height use support arms that attach the basketball backboard to the pole. The backboard is attached to one side of the support arms. The opposite ends of the support arms extend beyond a pivot connection with the pole. Consequently, when the free ends of the support arms are moved up, the basketball backboard and hoop move down and vice versa. Various height adjustment mechanisms are then used to adjust the height of the free ends of the support arms.

[0004] Using an adjustment mechanism with support arms has certain disadvantages. The use of the support arms causes the backboard to be suspended in front of the pole by at least several inches. This makes the overall basketball goal assembly front-heavy by shifting forward the center of gravity. As a result, larger and heavier bases are required in order to prevent the basketball goal assembly from tipping forward.

[0005] In U.S. Pat. No. 8,992,350 to Green, an adjustment system is shown that uses a lever system to raise and lower the backboard and rim. The lever is directly connected to support arms by linkages. As such, a large, heavy base is required to maintain stability. Furthermore, such lever systems present significant pinch hazards to young children. That is, the movement of the lever and linkages can easily catch a child's hand, hair, clothes, or skin. Additionally, lever adjustments are complex structures that are expensive to manufacture.

[0006] In U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2002 / 0094890 to White, an adjustment system is shown that uses a hand crank to raise and lower the backboard and rim. Crank adjustment systems use tightly threaded rods that are exposed to the elements. As such, the threaded rods are highly susceptible to weather and environmental contamination. As a result, after a year or more of being left exposed to the elements, the ability to adjust the height of the basketball goal system is often lost or degrades beyond the strength capabilities of a child to adjust. The crank adjustment system also uses support arms. As such, the overall basketball goal assembly is forward-heavy and requires a large, heavy base for stability.

[0007] A need therefore exists for a height adjustment system for a portable basketball goal assembly that does not require the use of support arms between the backboard and pole. A need also exists for a height adjustment mechanism that is highly weather resistant, presents no pinching hazards, and can be manufactured at an economical price. These needs are met by the present invention as described and claimed below.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The present invention is a device and method for adjusting the height of a portable basketball goal having a base and a pole assembly that extends upwardly from the base. The pole assembly includes a first pole section and a second pole section in a telescopic arrangement. A height adjustment mechanism is positioned inside the pole assembly. The height adjustment mechanism has a threaded shaft, a gearbox for turning the threaded shaft, and a turnbuckle frame that engages the threaded shaft, wherein the turnbuckle frame moves in relation to the gearbox as the threaded shaft turns. The gearbox is affixed to the first pole section inside of the first pole section. The turnbuckle frame is affixed to the second pole section inside of the second pole section. As the gearbox turns the threaded shaft, the second pole section moves relative to the first pole section. As such, the pole assembly can be selectively lengthened and shortened. A hole is provided in the first pole section for accessing the gearbox. A crank handle is provided that is sized to pass into the hole to engage and selectively power the gearbox, therein controlling the height adjustment.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] For a better understanding of the present invention, reference is made to the following description of an exemplary embodiment thereof, considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0010] FIG. 1 is an exemplary embodiment of a portable basketball goal assembly;

[0011] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the exemplary basketball goal assembly highlighting the height adjustment mechanism;

[0012] FIG. 3 is a fragmented view showing a grooved engagement between the high pole section and the central pole section;

[0013] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the height adjustment mechanism;

[0014] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the height adjustment mechanism of FIG. 3; and

[0015] FIG. 6 show successive cross-sectional views of the adjustment mechanism to illustrate changes in height adjustment through a range.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Although the present invention basketball goal assembly can be embodied in many ways, only one exemplary embodiment is illustrated. The exemplary embodiment is being shown for the purposes of explanation and description. The exemplary embodiment is selected in order to set forth one of the best modes contemplated for the invention. The illustrated embodiment, however, is merely exemplary and should not be considered a limitation when interpreting the scope of the appended claims.

[0017] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a portable basketball goal assembly 10 is shown. The portable basketball goal assembly 10 has a base 12. The base 12 can be blow-molded and is capable of holding a significant weight of water, sand, or gel. A pole assembly 14 extends vertically from the base 12. The pole assembly 14 is stabilized by angled brackets 16 that extend from the base 12 to an elevated position on the pole assembly 14. The pole assembly 14 directly supports a backboard 18. The backboard 18 is mounted to a static support bracket 20. The support bracket 20 is bolted directly to the pole assembly 14. This retains the backboard 18 very close to the pole assembly 14, wherein the center of gravity for the backboard 18 is nearly aligned with the center of gravity of the pole assembly 14. This provides very little forward tipping bias to the pole assembly 14. As a result, a modest base 12 can stabilize the overall basketball goal assembly 10.

[0018] The pole assembly 14 has three sections. The low pole section 22 is mounted to the base 12 and extends vertically above the base 12. The low pole section 22 is a static length of metal pole having an outer diameter D1. The low pole section 22 has a first end 24 that faces the base 12 and an opposite second end 26 that faces the backboard 18. The low pole section 22 of the pole assembly 14 engages the base 12 and is engaged by the angled brackets 16 that extend from the base 12.

[0019] A central pole section 28 extends vertically above the low pole section 22. The central pole section 28 has a first end 30 and an opposite second end 32. The first end 30 faces the base 12 while the second end 32 faces the backboard 18. The first end 30 of the central pole section 28 interconnects with the second end 26 of the low pole section 22. The central pole section 28 is also static and has the same outer diameter as the low pole section 22. As such, when the central pole section 28 is attached to the low pole section 22, they create a single pole of height H1.

[0020] A high pole section 34 is provided that extends, in part, above the central pole section 28. The high pole section 34 has a first end 36 that faces the base 12 and a second end 38 proximate the blackboard 18. The support bracket 20 that attaches the backboard 18 to the pole assembly 14 is bolted to the high pole section 34 proximate the second end 38. The diameter D2 of the high pole section 34 is slightly smaller than the diameter D1 of the central pole section 28 and the low pole section 22. This enables the first end 36 of the high pole section 34 to pass into the second end 32 of the central pole section 28 in a telescoping manner. As a result, the length of the high pole section 34 that extends from the central pole section 28 can be selectively adjusted. Since the high pole section 34 supports the backboard 18, any adjustment to the exposed length L1 of the high pole section 34 results in a change of height for the backboard 18.

[0021] The length L1 at which the high pole section 34 extends beyond the second end 32 of the central pole section 28 is determined by a height adjustment mechanism 40. The height adjustment mechanism 40 is positioned inside the central pole section 28 and the high pole section 34. In this manner, the height adjustment mechanism 40 is shielded from the weather. Furthermore, the workings of the height adjustment mechanism 40 cannot be touched. As a consequence, there are no exposed elements that can pinch or otherwise harm an inattentive person. The height adjustment mechanism 40 is operated using a crank handle 42 that extends from the central pole section 28 near its first end 30. The crank handle 42 is preferably plastic and is weather resistant. The crank handle 42 cannot be turned rapidly due to the mechanical advantage provided within the height adjustment mechanism 40. As such, users are unlikely to entangle any clothing or hair in the crank handle 42 as it is turned.

[0022] Referring to FIG. 3 in conjunction with FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, it will be understood that the high pole section 34 passes into the central pole section 28 in a telescoping manner. The high pole section 34 supports the backboard 18. As the game of basketball is played, the backboard 18 will be impacted. This will create forces that act to rotate the backboard and the high pole section 34. To prevent the high pole section 34 from rotating within the central pole section 28, the two pole sections can be slotted or can be formed into noncircular tubes. Alternatively, a guide sleeve can be provided that is slotted. In FIG. 3, a preferred slotted configuration is shown. The configuration is shown a guide sleeve 62. The guide sleeve 62 is anchored to the central pole section 28. The guide sleeve 62 contains a key protrusion 27 that extends inwardly. The high pole section 34 contains a groove 35 that is engaged by the key protrusion 37 on the guide sleeve 62. The key protrusion 37 passes into the groove 35 to prevent rotation. However, the ability of the high pole section 34 to move telescopically is preserved.

[0023] Referring to FIG. 4 in conjunction with FIG. 5, it can be seen that the height adjustment mechanism 40 includes a threaded shaft 44 that is rotated by the crank handle 42 via a right-angle gearbox 46. The threaded shaft 44 engages a turnbuckle frame 48, wherein the turnbuckle frame 48 enables the threaded shaft 44 to thread through the center of the turnbuckle frame 48. The turnbuckle frame 48 engages the threaded shaft 44 and is moved by the threaded shaft 44. In this manner, the distance between the turnbuckle frame 48 and the right-angle gearbox 46 can be selectively adjusted by the turning of the threaded shaft 44.

[0024] The turnbuckle frame 48 has a first end 50 and an opposite second end 52. The first end 50 faces the right-angle gearbox 46. The second end 52 faces in the opposite direction. The entire turnbuckle frame 48 passes inside the high pole section 34. Within the high pole section 34, the second end 52 of the turnbuckle frame 48 engages a stop plate 54 that is welded inside the high pole section 34. As such, the turnbuckle frame 48 becomes attached to the high pole section 34 while inside the high pole section 34. As a consequence, when the turnbuckle frame 48 moves relative to the threaded shaft 44, the high pole section 34 also moves relative to the threaded shaft 44.

[0025] The right-angle gearbox 46 is anchored inside the central pole section 28. A hole 56 is provided in the central pole section 28 to enable the crank handle 42 to engage the right-angle gearbox 46 from outside the central pole section 28. The right-angle gearbox 46 contains bevel gears 58, 60. The first bevel gear 58 is connected to the threaded shaft 44. The second bevel gear 60 is engaged and turned by the crank handle 42.

[0026] The high pole section 34 slides into the second end 32 of the central pole section 28. A guide sleeve 62 is provided for guiding the telescopic movements of the high pole section 34 and preventing water from entering the central pole section 28. The result is an adjustment mechanism 40 that is easy to operate, weather resistant, safe to use, and inexpensive to manufacture.

[0027] Referring to FIG. 6 in conjunction with all prior figures, it will now be understood that the first end 30 of the central pole section 28 connects to the low pole section 22. The high pole section 34 is inserted into the second end 32 of the central pole section 28, therein forming a telescoping construct. The right-angle gearbox 46 of the height adjustment mechanism 40 is anchored inside the central pole section 28. The turnbuckle frame 48 of the height adjustment mechanism 40 is anchored inside the high pole section 34. As the right-angle gearbox 46 is powered with the crank handle 42, the threaded shaft 44 turns. This moves the turnbuckle frame 48 and the high pole section 34 relative to the right-angle gearbox 46 and the central pole section 28. Since the high pole section 34 supports the backboard 18, the height of the backboard 18 can be selectively adjusted. Once the backboard 18 is at a selected height, the crank handle 42 can be removed, therein setting the height of the basketball goal assembly 10.

[0028] It will be understood that the embodiment of the present invention that is illustrated and described is merely exemplary and that a person skilled in the art can make many variations to that embodiment. All such embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention as defined by the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0016]Although the present invention basketball goal assembly can be embodied in many ways, only one exemplary embodiment is illustrated. The exemplary embodiment is being shown for the purposes of explanation and description. The exemplary embodiment is selected in order to set forth one of the best modes contemplated for the invention. The illustrated embodiment, however, is merely exemplary and should not be considered a limitation when interpreting the scope of the appended claims.

[0017]Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a portable basketball goal assembly 10 is shown. The portable basketball goal assembly 10 has a base 12. The base 12 can be blow-molded and is capable of holding a significant weight of water, sand, or gel. A pole assembly 14 extends vertically from the base 12. The pole assembly 14 is stabilized by angled brackets 16 that extend from the base 12 to an elevated position on the pole assembly 14. The pole assembly 14 directly supports a backboard 18. The backboard 18...

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field Of The Invention

[0001] In general, the present invention relates to portable basketball goal assemblies that have backboards and hoops that can be adjusted in height. More particularly, the present invention relates to the mechanisms that control the height adjustment of the backboard and hoop.2. Prior Art Description

[0002] Many people own portable basketball goal assemblies. These types of assemblies typically have a pole that is mounted to a portable base. The pole holds a basketball hoop and a backboard above a portable base. The base is typically filled with water, sand, or gel to stabilize the basketball goal assembly and ensure that the assembly does not fall over during play.

[0003] The regulation height for a basketball hoop is ten feet. However, young players often have difficulty shooting a basketball to that height. As such, many portable basketball goal assemblies have height adjustments that enable the hoop to be selectively lowered. Many basketball goal assemblies that are adjustable in height use support arms that attach the basketball backboard to the pole. The backboard is attached to one side of the support arms. The opposite ends of the support arms extend beyond a pivot connection with the pole. Consequently, when the free ends of the support arms are moved up, the basketball backboard and hoop move down and vice versa. Various height adjustment mechanisms are then used to adjust the height of the free ends of the support arms.

[0004] Using an adjustment mechanism with support arms has certain disadvantages. The use of the support arms causes the backboard to be suspended in front of the pole by at least several inches. This makes the overall basketball goal assembly front-heavy by shifting forward the center of gravity. As a result, larger and heavier bases are required in order to prevent the basketball goal assembly from tipping forward.

[0005] In U.S. Pat. No. 8,992,350 to Green, an adjustment system is shown that uses a lever system to raise and lower the backboard and rim. The lever is directly connected to support arms by linkages. As such, a large, heavy base is required to maintain stability. Furthermore, such lever systems present significant pinch hazards to young children. That is, the movement of the lever and linkages can easily catch a child's hand, hair, clothes, or skin. Additionally, lever adjustments are complex structures that are expensive to manufacture.

[0006] In U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2002 / 0094890 to White, an adjustment system is shown that uses a hand crank to raise and lower the backboard and rim. Crank adjustment systems use tightly threaded rods that are exposed to the elements. As such, the threaded rods are highly susceptible to weather and environmental contamination. As a result, after a year or more of being left exposed to the elements, the ability to adjust the height of the basketball goal system is often lost or degrades beyond the strength capabilities of a child to adjust. The crank adjustment system also uses support arms. As such, the overall basketball goal assembly is forward-heavy and requires a large, heavy base for stability.

[0007] A need therefore exists for a height adjustment system for a portable basketball goal assembly that does not require the use of support arms between the backboard and pole. A need also exists for a height adjustment mechanism that is highly weather resistant, presents no pinching hazards, and can be manufactured at an economical price. These needs are met by the present invention as described and claimed below.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The present invention is a device and method for adjusting the height of a portable basketball goal having a base and a pole assembly that extends upwardly from the base. The pole assembly includes a first pole section and a second pole section in a telescopic arrangement. A height adjustment mechanism is positioned inside the pole assembly. The height adjustment mechanism has a threaded shaft, a gearbox for turning the threaded shaft, and a turnbuckle frame that engages the threaded shaft, wherein the turnbuckle frame moves in relation to the gearbox as the threaded shaft turns. The gearbox is affixed to the first pole section inside of the first pole section. The turnbuckle frame is affixed to the second pole section inside of the second pole section. As the gearbox turns the threaded shaft, the second pole section moves relative to the first pole section. As such, the pole assembly can be selectively lengthened and shortened. A hole is provided in the first pole section for accessing the gearbox. A crank handle is provided that is sized to pass into the hole to engage and selectively power the gearbox, therein controlling the height adjustment.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] For a better understanding of the present invention, reference is made to the following description of an exemplary embodiment thereof, considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0010] FIG. 1 is an exemplary embodiment of a portable basketball goal assembly;

[0011] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the exemplary basketball goal assembly highlighting the height adjustment mechanism;

[0012] FIG. 3 is a fragmented view showing a grooved engagement between the high pole section and the central pole section;

[0013] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the height adjustment mechanism;

[0014] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the height adjustment mechanism of FIG. 3; and

[0015] FIG. 6 show successive cross-sectional views of the adjustment mechanism to illustrate changes in height adjustment through a range.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Although the present invention basketball goal assembly can be embodied in many ways, only one exemplary embodiment is illustrated. The exemplary embodiment is being shown for the purposes of explanation and description. The exemplary embodiment is selected in order to set forth one of the best modes contemplated for the invention. The illustrated embodiment, however, is merely exemplary and should not be considered a limitation when interpreting the scope of the appended claims.

[0017] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a portable basketball goal assembly 10 is shown. The portable basketball goal assembly 10 has a base 12. The base 12 can be blow-molded and is capable of holding a significant weight of water, sand, or gel. A pole assembly 14 extends vertically from the base 12. The pole assembly 14 is stabilized by angled brackets 16 that extend from the base 12 to an elevated position on the pole assembly 14. The pole assembly 14 directly supports a backboard 18. The backboard 18 is mounted to a static support bracket 20. The support bracket 20 is bolted directly to the pole assembly 14. This retains the backboard 18 very close to the pole assembly 14, wherein the center of gravity for the backboard 18 is nearly aligned with the center of gravity of the pole assembly 14. This provides very little forward tipping bias to the pole assembly 14. As a result, a modest base 12 can stabilize the overall basketball goal assembly 10.

[0018] The pole assembly 14 has three sections. The low pole section 22 is mounted to the base 12 and extends vertically above the base 12. The low pole section 22 is a static length of metal pole having an outer diameter D1. The low pole section 22 has a first end 24 that faces the base 12 and an opposite second end 26 that faces the backboard 18. The low pole section 22 of the pole assembly 14 engages the base 12 and is engaged by the angled brackets 16 that extend from the base 12.

[0019] A central pole section 28 extends vertically above the low pole section 22. The central pole section 28 has a first end 30 and an opposite second end 32. The first end 30 faces the base 12 while the second end 32 faces the backboard 18. The first end 30 of the central pole section 28 interconnects with the second end 26 of the low pole section 22. The central pole section 28 is also static and has the same outer diameter as the low pole section 22. As such, when the central pole section 28 is attached to the low pole section 22, they create a single pole of height H1.

[0020] A high pole section 34 is provided that extends, in part, above the central pole section 28. The high pole section 34 has a first end 36 that faces the base 12 and a second end 38 proximate the blackboard 18. The support bracket 20 that attaches the backboard 18 to the pole assembly 14 is bolted to the high pole section 34 proximate the second end 38. The diameter D2 of the high pole section 34 is slightly smaller than the diameter D1 of the central pole section 28 and the low pole section 22. This enables the first end 36 of the high pole section 34 to pass into the second end 32 of the central pole section 28 in a telescoping manner. As a result, the length of the high pole section 34 that extends from the central pole section 28 can be selectively adjusted. Since the high pole section 34 supports the backboard 18, any adjustment to the exposed length L1 of the high pole section 34 results in a change of height for the backboard 18.

[0021] The length L1 at which the high pole section 34 extends beyond the second end 32 of the central pole section 28 is determined by a height adjustment mechanism 40. The height adjustment mechanism 40 is positioned inside the central pole section 28 and the high pole section 34. In this manner, the height adjustment mechanism 40 is shielded from the weather. Furthermore, the workings of the height adjustment mechanism 40 cannot be touched. As a consequence, there are no exposed elements that can pinch or otherwise harm an inattentive person. The height adjustment mechanism 40 is operated using a crank handle 42 that extends from the central pole section 28 near its first end 30. The crank handle 42 is preferably plastic and is weather resistant. The crank handle 42 cannot be turned rapidly due to the mechanical advantage provided within the height adjustment mechanism 40. As such, users are unlikely to entangle any clothing or hair in the crank handle 42 as it is turned.

[0022] Referring to FIG. 3 in conjunction with FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, it will be understood that the high pole section 34 passes into the central pole section 28 in a telescoping manner. The high pole section 34 supports the backboard 18. As the game of basketball is played, the backboard 18 will be impacted. This will create forces that act to rotate the backboard and the high pole section 34. To prevent the high pole section 34 from rotating within the central pole section 28, the two pole sections can be slotted or can be formed into noncircular tubes. Alternatively, a guide sleeve can be provided that is slotted. In FIG. 3, a preferred slotted configuration is shown. The configuration is shown a guide sleeve 62. The guide sleeve 62 is anchored to the central pole section 28. The guide sleeve 62 contains a key protrusion 27 that extends inwardly. The high pole section 34 contains a groove 35 that is engaged by the key protrusion 37 on the guide sleeve 62. The key protrusion 37 passes into the groove 35 to prevent rotation. However, the ability of the high pole section 34 to move telescopically is preserved.

[0023] Referring to FIG. 4 in conjunction with FIG. 5, it can be seen that the height adjustment mechanism 40 includes a threaded shaft 44 that is rotated by the crank handle 42 via a right-angle gearbox 46. The threaded shaft 44 engages a turnbuckle frame 48, wherein the turnbuckle frame 48 enables the threaded shaft 44 to thread through the center of the turnbuckle frame 48. The turnbuckle frame 48 engages the threaded shaft 44 and is moved by the threaded shaft 44. In this manner, the distance between the turnbuckle frame 48 and the right-angle gearbox 46 can be selectively adjusted by the turning of the threaded shaft 44.

[0024] The turnbuckle frame 48 has a first end 50 and an opposite second end 52. The first end 50 faces the right-angle gearbox 46. The second end 52 faces in the opposite direction. The entire turnbuckle frame 48 passes inside the high pole section 34. Within the high pole section 34, the second end 52 of the turnbuckle frame 48 engages a stop plate 54 that is welded inside the high pole section 34. As such, the turnbuckle frame 48 becomes attached to the high pole section 34 while inside the high pole section 34. As a consequence, when the turnbuckle frame 48 moves relative to the threaded shaft 44, the high pole section 34 also moves relative to the threaded shaft 44.

[0025] The right-angle gearbox 46 is anchored inside the central pole section 28. A hole 56 is provided in the central pole section 28 to enable the crank handle 42 to engage the right-angle gearbox 46 from outside the central pole section 28. The right-angle gearbox 46 contains bevel gears 58, 60. The first bevel gear 58 is connected to the threaded shaft 44. The second bevel gear 60 is engaged and turned by the crank handle 42.

[0026] The high pole section 34 slides into the second end 32 of the central pole section 28. A guide sleeve 62 is provided for guiding the telescopic movements of the high pole section 34 and preventing water from entering the central pole section 28. The result is an adjustment mechanism 40 that is easy to operate, weather resistant, safe to use, and inexpensive to manufacture.

[0027] Referring to FIG. 6 in conjunction with all prior figures, it will now be understood that the first end 30 of the central pole section 28 connects to the low pole section 22. The high pole section 34 is inserted into the second end 32 of the central pole section 28, therein forming a telescoping construct. The right-angle gearbox 46 of the height adjustment mechanism 40 is anchored inside the central pole section 28. The turnbuckle frame 48 of the height adjustment mechanism 40 is anchored inside the high pole section 34. As the right-angle gearbox 46 is powered with the crank handle 42, the threaded shaft 44 turns. This moves the turnbuckle frame 48 and the high pole section 34 relative to the right-angle gearbox 46 and the central pole section 28. Since the high pole section 34 supports the backboard 18, the height of the backboard 18 can be selectively adjusted. Once the backboard 18 is at a selected height, the crank handle 42 can be removed, therein setting the height of the basketball goal assembly 10.

[0028] It will be understood that the embodiment of the present invention that is illustrated and described is merely exemplary and that a person skilled in the art can make many variations to that embodiment. All such embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention as defined by the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0016]Although the present invention basketball goal assembly can be embodied in many ways, only one exemplary embodiment is illustrated. The exemplary embodiment is being shown for the purposes of explanation and description. The exemplary embodiment is selected in order to set forth one of the best modes contemplated for the invention. The illustrated embodiment, however, is merely exemplary and should not be considered a limitation when interpreting the scope of the appended claims.

[0017]Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a portable basketball goal assembly 10 is shown. The portable basketball goal assembly 10 has a base 12. The base 12 can be blow-molded and is capable of holding a significant weight of water, sand, or gel. A pole assembly 14 extends vertically from the base 12. The pole assembly 14 is stabilized by angled brackets 16 that extend from the base 12 to an elevated position on the pole assembly 14. The pole assembly 14 directly supports a backboard 18. The backboard 18...

Claims

1. A portable basketball goal assembly, comprising;a base;a pole assembly supported by said base, said pole assembly having a first pole section and a second pole section in a telescopic arrangement;a height adjustment mechanism having a threaded shaft, a gearbox for turning said threaded shaft, and a turnbuckle frame that engages said threaded shaft, wherein said turnbuckle frame moves in relation to said gearbox as said threaded shaft turns,wherein said gearbox is affixed to said first pole section inside of said first pole section, andwherein said turnbuckle frame is affixed to said second pole section inside of said second pole section;a backboard affixed to said second pole section.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, further including a hole in said first pole section for accessing said gearbox and a crank handle sized to pass into said hole to engage and selectively power said gearbox.

3. The assembly according to claim 1, further including a guide sleeve disposed between at least parts of said first pole section and said second pole section to inhibit water from passing between said first pole section and said second pole section.

4. The assembly according to claim 3, wherein said guide sleeve prevents said first pole section from rotating relative to said second pole section.

5. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein said gearbox is a right-angle gearbox6. The assembly according to claim 1, further including a bracket that attaches said backboard to said second pole section of said pole assembly.

7. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein said pole assembly includes a third pole section that is mounted to said base, wherein said third pole section interconnects with said first pole section.

8. A pole assembly with an adjustable length for use in supporting a basketball backboard, said assembly comprising:a first pole section and a second pole section interconnected in a telescopic arrangement so that an adjustable length of said second pole section extends from said first pole section;a height adjustment mechanism having a threaded shaft and a gearbox for turning said threaded shaft, wherein said gearbox is affixed to said first pole section inside of said first pole section, andwherein said threaded shaft engages threads disposed inside of said second pole section, wherein said adjustable length of said pole section is selectively altered when said gearbox turns said threaded shaft.

9. The assembly according to claim 8, further including a hole in said first pole section for accessing said gearbox and a crank handle sized to pass into said hole to engage and selectively turn said gearbox.

10. The assembly according to claim 8, further including a guide sleeve disposed between at least parts of said first pole section and said second pole section to inhibit water from passing between said first pole section and said second pole section.

11. The assembly according to claim 10, wherein said guide sleeve engages both said first pole section and said second pole section and prevents said first pole section from rotating relative to said second pole section.

12. The assembly according to claim 8, wherein said gearbox is a right-angle gearbox13. The assembly according to claim 8, further including a bracket that attaches said basketball backboard to said second pole section of said pole assembly.

14. The assembly according to claim 8, wherein said pole assembly includes a third pole section, wherein said third pole section interconnects with said first pole section.

15. The assembly according to claim 14, further including a base, wherein said third pole section is mounted to said base.

16. A method of adjusting a height for a basketball backboard on a portable basketball goal assembly, said method comprising;providing a pole assembly supported by said base, said pole assembly having a first pole section and a second pole section in a telescopic arrangement;providing a height adjustment mechanism having a threaded shaft, a gearbox for turning said threaded shaft, and a turnbuckle frame that engages said threaded shaft;affixing said gearbox to said first pole section inside of said first pole section;affixing said turnbuckle frame to said second pole section inside of said second pole section, wherein rotation of said threaded shaft by said gearbox causes relative movement between said first pole section and said second pole section.

17. The method according to claim 16, further including providing a crank handle sized to engage and selectively provide rotational power to said gearbox.

18. The method according to claim 16, further including providing a guide sleeve between at least parts of said first pole section and said second pole section to inhibit water from passing between said first pole section and said second pole section.

19. The method according to claim 16, wherein said guide sleeve engages both said first pole section and said second pole section and prevents relative rotation between said first pole section and said second pole section.

20. The method according to claim 16, wherein said gearbox is a right-angle gearbox.

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