Foldable goal
The foldable soccer goal with hinges and gas springs addresses the challenge of large and heavy soccer goals by allowing easy storage and transportation as a single unit, ensuring safety during handling and assembly.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- US · United States
- Patent Type
- Applications(United States)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- KWIK GOAL
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-23
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-23
AI Technical Summary
Soccer goals are large, heavy, and cumbersome to transport and assemble, requiring significant time and effort, posing challenges in storage and transportation.
A foldable soccer goal structure with hinges and gas springs that allows easy folding and unfolding, enabling it to be transported and stored as a single unit, with safety mechanisms to prevent injury during handling.
Facilitates easy storage, transportation, and assembly of soccer goals, ensuring safety during handling and reducing the risk of damage or injury.
Smart Images
Figure US20260208016A1-D00000_ABST
Abstract
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 USC § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 63 / 748,838 filed Jan. 23, 2025.BACKGROUND
[0002] The present invention relates to soccer goals and like goal structures that define a goal mouth along a goal line of a playing field. More particularly, the present invention is directed to a goal that is foldable such that the goal can be readily stored and transported.
[0003] Goals for playing fields can be relatively large, heavy, and cumbersome to transport. For example, a soccer goal may be provided which defines a goal mouth that is approximately 8 feet by 24 feet. The various components forming the framework of the goal are typically made of metal or like rigid material and are therefore relatively heavy and difficult to move when in an assembled condition. In addition, such goal structures are relatively large to store and / or may require significant time for assembly and disassembly on a playing field.SUMMARY
[0004] Accordingly, objectives of embodiments of goals disclosed herein include a goal structure that is able to be folded in a condition enabling relatively easy storage and transportation of the goal. The goal is self-contained and movable in a folded condition as a single unit. Folding and unfolding of the goal are relatively easy to accomplish in a manner that ensures prevention of injury to installers as well as players during use. Preferably, movement of the folded goal may be accomplished by way of being carried manually by two or more people or by way of a wheeled cart or dolly.
[0005] According to a first embodiment, a foldable goal, such as a soccer goal, is provided. The goal includes goal posts and a cross bar connected to upper ends of the goal posts such as to define a goal mouth. A ground post extends rearwardly from a lower end of each of the goal posts. Each of the ground posts comprises a front portion integral with a respective one of the goal posts, a rear portion, and a hinge interconnecting the front portion of the ground post to the rear portion of the ground post. The goal is foldable about the hinges on the ground posts into a folded condition in which the front portions of the ground posts extend transversely relative to the rear portions of the ground posts and each goal post extends laterally above and along the rear portion of a respective one of the ground posts. The goal is also foldable about the hinges on the ground posts into an unfolded condition in which the front and rear portions of each of the ground posts extend co-axially and the goal posts extend in an upright direction relative to the ground posts.
[0006] According to a second embodiment, a foldable goal, such as a soccer goal, is provided. The goal includes first and second goal posts and a cross bar connected to upper ends of said first and second goal posts such as to define a goal mouth, a first ground post extending rearwardly from a lower end of said first goal post and a second ground post extending rearwardly from a lower end of said second goal post, and a rear ground cross bar integrally connected to rear ends of said first and second ground posts. The goal includes a first set of hinges permitting the first and second goal posts and crossbar to be folded in a rearward direction over the first and second ground posts and rear ground cross bar. In addition, the goal includes a second set of hinges permitting the first and second goal posts and first and second ground posts to be folded to a position extending along the cross bar and the rear ground cross bar in side-by-side relation.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the embodiments disclosed herein should become apparent from the following description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
[0008] FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a first embodiment of a goal (i.e., referred to as a soccer goal in the United States and as a football goal in many other countries) in a fully unfolded condition without a net and supported on the ground of a playing field according to an embodiment.
[0009] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the goal of FIG. 1 as shown in a partially folded condition.
[0010] FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the goal of FIG. 1 as shown in a fully folded condition ready for transport or storage.
[0011] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a front lower corner of the goal structure of FIG. 1 in the fully unfolded condition.
[0012] FIG. 5 is a partially cut-away perspective view of the front lower corner of the goal structure of FIG. 1 in the fully unfolded condition.
[0013] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the front lower corner of the goal structure of FIG. 3 in the fully folded condition.
[0014] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the goal structure of FIG. 1 in a fully unfolded condition without a net.
[0015] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the lower rear corner of the goal of FIG. 7.
[0016] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the goal structure of FIG. 3 in the fully folded condition.
[0017] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the lower rear corner of the goal of FIG. 9.
[0018] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the front lower corner of FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of a second embodiment of a goal (i.e., referred to as a soccer goal in the United States and as a football goal in many other countries) in a fully unfolded condition without a net and supported on the ground of a playing field according to an embodiment.
[0020] FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of the goal of FIG. 12 as shown in a partially folded condition.
[0021] FIG. 14 is a side elevational view of the goal of FIG. 12 as shown in a folded condition.
[0022] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a front lower corner of the goal structure of FIG. 12 in the fully unfolded condition.
[0023] FIG. 16 is a partially cut-away perspective view of the front lower corner of the goal structure of FIG. 12 in the fully unfolded condition.
[0024] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the front lower corner of the goal structure of FIG. 12 in the folded condition.
[0025] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the goal structure of FIG. 12 in a fully unfolded condition without a net.
[0026] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the lower rear corner of the goal of FIG. 18.
[0027] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the goal structure in the folded condition of FIG. 14.
[0028] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the lower rear corner of the goal of FIG. 20.
[0029] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the goal structure of the folded condition of FIG. 14.
[0030] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the lower rear corner of the goal of FIG. 22.
[0031] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the goal structure in the folded condition of FIG. 14 and also in a condition in which the goal posts are extending from the cross bar and the ground posts are extended from the ground cross bar.
[0032] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the lower rear corner of the goal of FIG. 24.
[0033] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the goal structure in the folded condition of FIG. 14 and also in a condition in which the goal posts and ground posts are partially folded relative to the cross bar and ground cross bar.
[0034] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the lower rear corner of the goal of FIG. 26.
[0035] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the goal structure in the folded condition of FIG. 14 and also in a condition in which the goal posts and ground posts are fully folded relative to the cross bar and the ground cross bar.
[0036] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the lower rear corner of the goal of FIG. 28.
[0037] FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of the front lower corner of FIG. 12.DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0038] For simplicity and illustrative purposes, the principles of the embodiments are described by referring mainly to examples thereof. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. It will be apparent however, to one of ordinary skill in the art, that the embodiments may be practiced without limitation to these specific details. In some instances, well known devices, apparatus, methods and structures have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the embodiments.
[0039] An example of the framework of a first embodiment of a soccer goal 10 is best shown in FIGS. 1 and 7 with the goal 10 being in a fully unfolded condition on a playing field such as to define a goal mouth 18 adjacent a playing field. The framework includes a pair of upright goal posts, 12 and 14, and a crossbar 16 elevated above the playing field and extending from the tops of the goal posts, 12 and 14. Thus, the goal mouth 18 is defined by the goal posts, 12 and 14, crossbar 16, and ground surface 22 of the playing field which defines a goal line. The showing of soccer netting is excluded for ease of illustration purposes. However, a soccer net would extend rearward from the goal posts, 12 and 14, and crossbar 16 behind the goal mouth 18 as discussed in more detail below.
[0040] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 7, the framework of the soccer goal 10 can include ground posts 26 extending rearward of the goal posts, 12 and 14, relative to the playing field and a rear ground cross post 28 (see FIG. 7) interconnecting the ends of the ground posts 26 opposite the goal mouth. The ground posts 26 and rear ground cross post 28 rest on the ground surface 22 of the playing field. Goal netting would be secured to the ground posts 26 and rear ground cross post 28. In addition, a tension pole or backpole 30 may be mounted in each lower rear corner of the framework for being secured to parts of the netting via cables or the like to uplift or support the netting and enhance the appearance thereof.
[0041] According to embodiments disclosed herein, the goal 10 is foldable such that the goal 10 may be in a fully unfolded condition as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7 (i.e., for use in providing a goal on a playing field) or in a fully folded condition (i.e., compact, knockdown condition) as shown in FIGS. 3 and 9. In the fully unfolded condition, the goal 10 is ready for play and defines a goal mouth. In the fully folded condition, the framework is provided as a single unit that can be readily carried, moved, transported, or stored. By way of example, the framework of FIG. 9 can be manually carried to or from a playing field by two or more individuals or wheeled on a cart or dolly.
[0042] The ground posts 26 provide a pivot point or hinge 20 about which the goal posts, 12 and 14, and the crossbar 16 connected between the goal posts, 12 and 14, can be folded rearwardly from the position shown in FIGS. 1 and 7 to a position as shown in FIGS. 3 and 9 (i.e., in a compact collapsed position adjacent the ground posts 26 and rear ground cross post 28). The assembly of the front corner of the framework of the goal 10 is best illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 11. The front corner including goal post 12 is shown in FIGS. 1-6 and 11 and described in detail below. The opposite front corner including the goal post 14 would be identical to that illustrated for the front corner including goal post 12 and a mirror image thereof.
[0043] The ground post 26 includes a front portion 32 and a rear portion 34. The front portion 32 is of relatively short length relative to the rear portion 34. The front portion 32 is integral with the goal post 12 and extends at about a 90° angle therefrom. The rear portion 34 extends to the rear ground cross bar 28. The rear portion 34 connects to the front portion 32 via the pivot point or hinge 20.
[0044] The pivot point / hinge 20 is formed by a first hinge component 36 that is secured to and extends from a rearward facing end of the front portion 32 of the ground post 26 and a second hinge component 38 that is secured to an adjacent end of the rear portion 34 of the ground post 26. The first and second hinge components, 36 and 38, can be engaged and connected together with a hinge pin or the like such that the hinge pin forms an axis of the pivot point / hinge 20.
[0045] As best shown in FIG. 11, a spring-loaded lock bolt or bar 40 or the like extends within the second hinge component 38 and is resiliently biased toward the front hinge component 36. Of course, this arrangement may be reversed. The first hinge component 36 includes a notch 42 for receiving the lock bolt 40 such that, when the framework is positioned in the fully unfolded condition, the spring-loaded lock bolt 40 is resiliently and automatically biased into and received by the notch 42 which thereby prevents any folding movement of the goal posts relative to the ground posts 26. For this purpose, a spring 44 can be secured to the second hinge component 38 and lock bolt 40 to cause the lock bolt 40 to automatically and resiliently extend into the notch 42 when aligned with the notch 42 in the fully unfolded condition of the goal 10 (see FIG. 5). The above arrangement ensures that the framework remains in the fully unfolded condition, such as during play or other use of the unfolded goal by players or the like.
[0046] For purposes of unlocking the first and second hinge components, 36 and 38, a control lever or knob 46 is connected to the lock bolt 40 such that the knob 46 moves with the lock bolt 40. As shown in FIG. 11, the knob 46 can extend upwardly from the lock bolt 40 to a position above the ground post 26. Accordingly, the knob 46 can be grasped by a user and forced to slide rearward against the force of the spring 44 in a direction to cause the lock bolt 40 to be withdrawn from the notch 42 and thereby permit the goal post 12 to be folded rearwardly relative to the ground post 26 about the pivot point / hinge 20.
[0047] For safety purposes, both lower front corners of the goal 10 separately include the above referenced locking mechanism (i.e., lock bolt 40, notch 42, knob 46, etc.) for permitting both goal posts, 12 and 14, to be locked, unlocked, and folded relative to the rear portions 34 of the ground posts 26. Thus, both hinge mechanisms would need to be unlocked (i.e., the knobs 46 slid rearwardly against the force of the springs 44) to permit the framework of the goal to fold. This ensures that at least two people are required to fold the goal (i.e., one person at each front corner sliding the knob rearward against the force of the spring). In this manner, a folding operation requires a least two individuals to release the locks and support the goal posts, 12 and 14, as they are folded rearward.
[0048] As a further safety measure, a gas spring component 48 has a first end connected to the goal post 12 and a second end connected to the rear portion 34 of the ground post 26 such that the gas spring component 48 attaches to two points of the framework on opposite sides of the hinge / pivot point 20. The gas spring component 48 assists in unfolding and folding of the goal posts, 12 and 14. For instance, the gas spring component 48 adds resistance to folding during a folding operation so that the goal posts, 12 and 14, and integral crossbar 16 cannot fall freely into the fully folded condition which may damage both the goal and the persons performing the folding operation. Thus, the gas spring component 48 softens the folding movement of the framework and prevents potentially injury should the relatively heavy framework slip out of an individual's control during a folding procedure. The gas spring component 48 also aids in unfolding of the goal 10 since less force is required to pivot the goal posts, 12 and 14, and crossbar 16 upward to an unfolded condition despite their relatively large size and heavy weight.
[0049] A support brace 50 is secured to each of the ground posts 26 to support a portion of the gas-spring component 48 when the goal 10 is in the fully unfolded condition. See FIGS. 4 and 5. This prevents potential damage of the gas spring component 48. In the illustrated embodiment, the support brace 50 is secured to the top of the rear portion 34 of the ground post 26 between the knob 46 and the connection point of the end of the gas spring component 48 to the rear portion 34 of the ground post 26.
[0050] A folding operation is best illustrated with reference to FIGS. 1-3. In FIG. 1, the goal 10 is locked in the fully unfolded condition and thereby is in condition to define a goal mouth on a playing field or surface. For instance, see FIG. 7. In this condition, the front and rear potions of each of the ground posts extend co-axially. In addition, the goal posts extend in an upright condition at about a 90° angle from the ground posts.
[0051] In FIG. 2, a first person located at the lower front corner of the goal post 12 and a second person located at the front corner of the goal post 14 are required to unlock the hinge mechanisms (i.e., knob 46, lock bolt 40, notch 42) at each of the front corners and begin to fold the goal posts, 12 and 14, with integral crossbar 16 toward the rear portions 34 of the ground posts 26 against a cushioning force provided by the gas spring components 48 (one located in each of the front corners). In FIG. 3, the goal 10 is shown in the fully folded condition. Also, see FIG. 9. In this condition, the front portions of the ground posts extend transversely in an upright position relative to the rear portions of the ground posts and the goal posts extend laterally above and along the ground posts.
[0052] As best shown in FIGS. 8 and 10, a bumper 52, made of rubber or like resilient material, is secured to the top of the ground post 26 adjacent the rear lower corner of the goal 10. As best shown in FIG. 10, the upper corner of the goal 10 (i.e., at an interconnection of the goal post 12 and crossbar 16) is supported on the bumper 52 so as to space the goal post 12 directly above the ground post 26. A similar bumper is also provided on the other lower rear corner of the goal 10.
[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the backpoles 30 connects to the rear lower corners of the framework of the goal 10. As best illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 10, a socket 54 is provided in each of the lower rear corners of the goal 10 into which the backpoles 30 may be inserted. As illustrated, the socket 54 may include opposed holes 56 through which a resiliently biased double-sided snap button 58 may be extended to lock the backpole 30 to the rear lower corner of the goal. The backpole 30 is removable from this connection by pressing the double-sided snap button 58 inward. The rear ground cross post 28 is provided with clips 60 to enable the disconnected backpoles 30 to be secured thereto in a stowed position.
[0054] Accordingly, in the condition shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the goal is in the fully folded condition, is self-contained, and movable as a single unit. Straps, pins, or the like (not shown) may be used to further secure the goal posts, 12 and 14, to the ground posts 26 and the backpoles 30 to the rear ground cross post 28 to further ensure the goal remains in the folded condition during transport on or off a playing field.
[0055] For purposes of installing the goal on a playing field, the goal 10 is carried as a single unit in a folded condition as shown in FIG. 9 to a desired location. The folded goal would then be unfolded to the fully unfolded condition by lifting the goal posts, 12 and 14, with integral crossbar 16 to the upright position as shown in FIG. 7. In this position, the hinge mechanisms located at the lower front corners of the goal 10 would automatically lock and prevent any folding of the goal during use. The backpoles 30 may be removed from the clips 60 and installed into the sockets 54 to complete the configuration as shown in FIG. 7.
[0056] An example of the framework of a second embodiment of a soccer goal 110 is best shown in FIGS. 12 and 18 with the goal 110 being in a fully unfolded condition on a playing field such as to define a goal mouth 118 adjacent a playing field. The framework includes a pair of upright goal posts, 112 and 114, and a crossbar 116 elevated above the playing field and extending from the tops of the goal posts, 112 and 114. Thus, the goal mouth 118 is defined by the goal posts, 112 and 114, crossbar 116, and ground surface 122 of the playing field which defines a goal line. The showing of soccer netting is excluded for ease of illustration purposes. However, a soccer net would extend rearward from the goal posts, 112 and 114, and crossbar 116 behind the goal mouth 118 as discussed in more detail below.
[0057] As shown in FIGS. 12 and 18, the framework of the soccer goal 110 can include ground posts 126 extending rearward of the goal posts, 112 and 114, relative to the playing field and a rear ground cross post 128 (see FIG. 18) interconnecting the ends of the ground posts 126 opposite the goal mouth. The ground posts 126 and rear ground cross post 128 rest on the ground surface 122 of the playing field. Goal netting would be secured to the ground posts 126 and rear ground cross post 128. In addition, a tension pole or backpole 130 may be mounted in each lower rear corner of the framework for being secured to parts of the netting via cables or the like to uplift or support the netting and enhance the appearance thereof.
[0058] The goal 110 is foldable such that the goal 110 may be in a fully unfolded condition as shown in FIGS. 12 and 18 (i.e., for use in providing a goal on a playing field) or in a fully folded condition (i.e., compact, knockdown condition) as shown in FIG. 28. In the fully unfolded condition, the goal 110 is ready for play and defines a goal mouth. In the fully folded condition, the framework is provided as a single unit that can be readily carried, moved, transported, or stored. By way of example, the framework of FIG. 28 can be manually carried to or from a playing field by two or more individuals or wheeled on a cart or dolly.
[0059] The ground posts 126 provide a pivot point or hinge 120 about which the goal posts, 112 and 114, and the crossbar 116 connected between the goal posts, 112 and 114, can be folded rearwardly from the position shown in FIGS. 12 and 18 to a position as shown in FIGS. 14 and 20 (i.e., in a compact collapsed position adjacent the ground posts 126 and rear ground cross post 128).
[0060] The assembly of the front corner of the framework of the goal 110 is best illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 30. The front corner including goal post 112 is shown in FIGS. 12-17 and 30 and described in detail below. The opposite front corner including the goal post 114 would be identical to that illustrated for the front corner including goal post 112 and a mirror image thereof.
[0061] The ground post 126 includes a front portion 132 and a central portion 134. The front portion 132 is of relatively short length relative to the central portion 134. The front portion 132 is integral with the goal post 112 and extends at about a 90° angle therefrom. The central portion 134 extends toward the rear ground cross bar 128. The central portion 134 connects to the front portion 132 via the pivot point or hinge 120.
[0062] The pivot point / hinge 120 is formed by a first hinge component 136 that is secured to and extends from a rearward facing end of the front portion 132 of the ground post 126 and a second hinge component 138 that is secured to an adjacent end of the central portion 134 of the ground post 126. The first and second hinge components, 136 and 138, can be engaged and connected together with a hinge pin or the like such that the hinge pin forms an axis of the pivot point / hinge 120.
[0063] As best shown in FIG. 30, a spring-loaded lock bolt or bar 140 or the like extends within the second hinge component 138 and is resiliently biased toward the front hinge component 136. Of course, this arrangement may be reversed. The first hinge component 136 includes a notch 142 for receiving the lock bolt 140 such that, when the framework is positioned in the fully unfolded condition, the spring-loaded lock bolt 140 is resiliently and automatically biased into and received by the notch 142 which thereby prevents any folding movement of the goal posts relative to the ground posts 126. For this purpose, a spring 144 can be secured to the second hinge component 138 and lock bolt 140 to cause the lock bolt 140 to automatically and resiliently extend into the notch 142 when aligned with the notch 142 in the fully unfolded condition of the goal 110 (see FIG. 16). The above arrangement ensures that the framework remains in the fully unfolded condition, such as during play or other use of the unfolded goal by players or the like.
[0064] For purposes of unlocking the first and second hinge components, 136 and 138, a control lever or knob 146 is connected to the lock bolt 140 such that the knob 146 moves with the lock bolt 140. As shown in FIG. 30, the knob 146 can extend upwardly from the lock bolt 140 to a position above the ground post 126. Accordingly, the knob 146 can be grasped by a user and forced to slide rearward against the force of the spring 144 in a direction to cause the lock bolt 140 to be withdrawn from the notch 142 and thereby permit the goal post 112 to be folded rearwardly relative to the ground post 126 about the pivot point / hinge 120.
[0065] For safety purposes, both lower front corners of the goal 110 separately include the above referenced locking mechanism (i.e., lock bolt 140, notch 142, knob 146, etc.) for permitting both goal posts, 112 and 114, to be locked, unlocked, and folded relative to the central portions 134 of the ground posts 126. Thus, both hinge mechanisms would need to be unlocked (i.e., the knobs 146 slid rearwardly against the force of the springs 144) to permit the framework of the goal to fold. This ensures that at least two people are required to fold the goal (i.e., one person at each front corner sliding the knob rearward against the force of the spring). In this manner, a folding operation requires at least two individuals to release the locks and support the goal posts, 112 and 114, as they are folded rearward.
[0066] As a further safety measure, a gas spring component 148 has a first end connected to the goal post 112 and a second end connected to the central portion 134 of the ground post 126 such that the gas spring component 148 attaches to two points of the framework on opposite sides of the hinge / pivot point 120. The gas spring component 148 assists in unfolding and folding of the goal posts, 112 and 114. For instance, the gas spring component 148 adds resistance to folding during a folding operation so that the goal posts, 112 and 114, and integral crossbar 116 cannot fall freely into the fully folded condition which may damage both the goal and the persons performing the folding operation. Thus, the gas spring component 148 softens the folding movement of the framework and prevents potentially injury should the relatively heavy framework slip out of an individual's control during a folding procedure. The gas spring component 148 also aids in unfolding of the goal 110 since less force is required to pivot the goal posts, 112 and 114, and crossbar 116 upward to an unfolded condition despite their relatively large size and heavy weight.
[0067] A support brace 150 is secured to each of the ground posts 126 to support a portion of the gas-spring component 148 when the goal 110 is in the fully unfolded condition. See FIGS. 15 and 26. This prevents potential damage of the gas spring component 148. In the illustrated embodiment, the support brace 150 is secured to the top of the central portion 134 of the ground post 126 between the knob 146 and the connection point of the end of the gas spring component 148 to the central portion 134 of the ground post 126.
[0068] According to the second embodiment, a further folding operation is also accomplished adjacent the rear corners of the goal 110. For example, after the goal 110 is folded in the condition as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 (which represents a fully folded condition in the first embodiment of the goal 10), the goal 110 is subject to further operations such that the fully folded condition of the goal 110 is shown in FIGS. 28 and 29. Thus, in the fully folded condition, the framework of the goal 110 substantially forms an “I” shape with the ground posts 126 and goal posts, 112 and 114, folded up against and along the crossbar 116 and rear ground cross bar 128.
[0069] For achieving the position shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, the goal 110 is manipulated and folded as shown in FIGS. 22-27. FIGS. 22 and 23 show the goal 110 when the cross bar 116 and goal posts, 112 and 114, are folded rearwardly as discussed above for the first embodiment.
[0070] FIGS. 24 and 25 show that the ground post 126 includes a rear portion 162 such that the central portion 134 of the ground post 126 can be pulled in a direction away from the rear portion 162. This exposes a hinge 164 that interconnects the central portion 134 to the rear portion 162. Likewise, the goal post 112 can be pulled in a direction away from the crossbar 116. This also exposes a hinge 166. In this condition, the central portion 134 of the ground post 126 and the goal post 112 can be pivoted about the hinges, 164 and 166, such as to fold the goal post 112 and ground post 126 inward as shown in FIGS. 26 and 27. Thus, when fully folded, the goal post 112 and ground post 126 are in the condition shown in FIGS. 28 and 29 in which they extend along the crossbar 116 and ground cross bar 128 in side-to-side relation.
[0071] Accordingly, a folding operation is as follows. In FIG. 12, the goal 110 is locked in the fully unfolded condition and thereby is in condition to define a goal mouth on a playing field or surface. For instance, see FIG. 18. In this condition, the front and central portions of each of the ground posts extend co-axially. In addition, the goal posts extend in an upright condition at about a 90° angle from the ground posts.
[0072] In FIG. 13, a first person located at the lower front corner of the goal post 112 and a second person located at the front corner of the goal post 114 are required to unlock the hinge mechanisms (i.e., knob 146, lock bolt 140, notch 142) at each of the front corners and begin to fold the goal posts, 112 and 114, with integral crossbar 16 toward the central portions 134 of the ground posts 126 against a cushioning force provided by the gas spring components 148 (one located in each of the front corners). In FIG. 14, the goal 110 is shown with this folding operation completed. In this condition, the front portions 132 of the ground posts 126 extend transversely in an upright position relative to the central portions 134 of the ground posts 126 and the goal posts, 112 and 114 extend laterally above and along the ground posts 126.
[0073] A bumper 152, made of rubber or like resilient material, is secured to the top of the ground post 126 adjacent the rear lower corner of the goal 110. As best shown in FIG. 21, the upper corner of the goal 110 (i.e., at an interconnection of the goal post 112 and crossbar 116) may be supported on the bumper 152 so as to space the goal post 112 directly above the ground post 126. A similar bumper is also provided on the other lower rear corner of the goal 110.
[0074] In the illustrated embodiment, the backpoles 130 connect to the rear lower corners of the framework of the goal 110. As best illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 21, a socket 154 is provided in each of the lower rear corners of the goal 110 into which the backpoles 130 may be inserted. As illustrated, the socket 154 may include opposed holes 156 through which a resiliently biased double-sided snap button 158, or the like, may be extended to lock the backpole 130 to the rear lower corner of the goal. The backpole 130 is removable from this connection by pressing the double-sided snap button 158 inward. The rear ground cross post 128 is provided with clips 160 to enable the disconnected backpoles 130 to be secured thereto in a stowed position.
[0075] Thereafter, the goal posts, 112 and 114, and ground post 126 is pulled in a direction away from the cross bar 116 and ground cross bar 128 (see FIGS. 24 and 25). This exposes hinges,164 and 166, and permits the goal posts, 112 and 114, and ground post 126 to be folded to a position adjacent the crossbar 116 and ground crossbar 138. See FIG. 28.
[0076] Accordingly, in the condition shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, the goal 110 is in a fully folded condition, is self-contained, and movable as a single unit. Straps, pins, or the like (not shown) may be used to further secure the goal posts, 112 and 114, to the ground posts 126, crossbar 116, and / or ground cross bar 128 and the backpoles 130 to the rear ground cross post 128 to further ensure the goal remains in the folded condition during transport on or off a playing field. Alternatively, a tarp may be used to contain the folded goal 110. According to an embodiment, the tarp is affixed to the rear ground cross bar.
[0077] For purposes of installing the goal on a playing field, the goal 10 is carried as a single unit in a folded condition as shown in FIG. 28 to a desired location. The folded goal would then be unfolded to the fully unfolded condition by unfolding the goal posts 112 and 114 and ground posts 126 away from the crossbar 116 and ground cross bar 128, and pushing the goal posts 112 and 114 and ground posts 126 toward the crossbar 116 and ground cross bar 128 to cover the hinges, 164 and 166. Thereafter, the goal posts, 112 and 114, with integral crossbar 116 are lifted to the upright position as shown in FIG. 18. In this position, the hinge mechanisms located at the lower front corners of the goal 110 would automatically lock and prevent any folding of the goal during use. The backpoles 130 may be removed from the clips 160 and installed into the sockets 154 to complete the configuration as shown in FIG. 18.
[0078] The foregoing description and specific embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles thereof, and various modifications and additions may be made to the apparatus by those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention.
Claims
1. A goal, comprising:first and second goal posts and a cross bar connected to upper ends of said first and second goal posts such as to define a goal mouth;a first ground post extending rearwardly from a lower end of said first goal post and a second ground post extending rearwardly from a lower end of said second goal post; andeach of the first and second ground posts comprise a front portion integral with a respective one of the goal posts and a hinge interconnecting said front portion to a remaining portion;wherein the goal is foldable about said hinges on said first and second ground posts into a folded condition in which said front portion of said first ground post extends transversely relative to said remaining portion of said first ground post and said first goal post extends laterally above and along said remaining portion of said first ground post, and said front portion of said second ground post extends transversely relative to said remaining portion of said second ground post, and said second goal post extends laterally above and along said remaining portion of said second ground post.
2. A goal according to claim 1, wherein the goal is foldable about said hinges on said first and second ground posts into an unfolded condition in which said front and remaining portions of said first ground post extend co-axially, said front and remaining rear portions of said second ground post extend co-axially, and said first and second goal posts extend in an upright direction relative to said first and second ground posts.
3. The goal according to claim 2, wherein said front portion of each of said first and second ground posts is shorter in length than said remaining portion of each of said first and second ground posts.
4. The goal according to claim 2, wherein each of said first and second ground posts includes a lock which locks said first and second ground posts in said unfolded condition.
5. The goal according to claim 4, wherein said hinge of each of said first and second ground posts includes a first hinge component connected to said front portion of said ground post and a second hinge component connected to said remaining portion of said ground post.
6. The goal according to claim 5, wherein each of said first and second ground posts includes a spring-loaded lock bolt within one of said front and remaining portions of said ground posts that is engageable within a notch on the other of said front and remaining portions of said ground posts such that said front and remaining portions of said ground posts are automatically locked together when said goal is fully unfolded.
7. The goal according to claim 6, wherein each lock bolt includes an integral knob for use in manually sliding the lock bolt out of engagement with said notch for purposes of permitting the goal to be folded from said unfolded condition.
8. The goal according to claim 4, further comprising a first gas spring component having a first end connected to the first goal post and a second end attached to said remaining portion of said first ground post, and a second gas spring component having a first end connected to the second goal post and a second end attached to said remaining portion of said second ground post.
9. The goal according to claim 8, further comprising a first brace connected to the remaining portion of said first ground post for engaging and supporting said first gas spring component when the goal is in said unfolded condition, and a second brace connected to the remaining portion of said second ground post for engaging and supporting said second gas spring component when the goal is in said unfolded condition.
10. The goal according to claim 1, further comprising a first bumper on said first ground post and a second bumper on said second ground post for supporting the first and second goal posts a spaced distance from said first and second ground posts when the goal is in the folded condition.
11. The goal according to claim 2, further comprising a rear ground cross bar integrally connected to rear ends of said first and second ground posts.
12. The goal according to claim 11, wherein the remaining portion of each of said first and second ground posts extends from said goal post to said rear ground cross bar.
13. The goal according to claim 12, further comprising at least one backpole removably connected in an upright position to a rear corner or adjacent a rear corner of the goal.
14. The goal according to claim 13, wherein the rear ground cross bar includes integral clips to which said backpole is stowable in a position extending along and parallel to said rear ground cross bar.
15. The goal according to claim 2, wherein the goal is a soccer goal.
16. The goal according to claim 15, wherein the goal mouth of the soccer goal is approximately 8 feet by 24 feet.
17. A goal, comprising:first and second goal posts and a cross bar connected to upper ends of said first and second goal posts such as to define a goal mouth;a first ground post extending rearwardly from a lower end of said first goal post and a second ground post extending rearwardly from a lower end of said second goal post;a rear ground cross bar integrally connected to rear ends of said first and second ground posts;a first set of hinges permitting the first and second goal posts and crossbar to be folded in a rearward direction over the first and second ground posts and rear ground cross bar; anda second set of hinges permitting the first and second goal posts and first and second ground posts to be folded to a position extending along the cross bar and the rear ground cross bar in side-by-side relation.
18. The goal according to claim 17, wherein the second set of hinges includes a first hinge permitting the first ground post to pivot relative to the rear ground cross bar, a second hinge permitting the first goal post to pivot relative to the crossbar, a third hinge permitting the second ground post to pivot relative to the rear ground cross bar, a fourth hinge permitting the first goal post to pivot relative to the crossbar.
19. The goal according to claim 18, wherein the first hinge is located within the first ground post and is only exposed when the first ground post is pulled in a direction away from the rear ground cross bar, wherein the second hinge is located within the first goal post and is only exposed when the first goal post is pulled in a direction away from the crossbar, wherein the third hinge is located within the second ground post and is only exposed when the second ground post is pulled in a direction away from the rear ground cross bar, and wherein the fourth hinge is located within the second goal post and is exposed when the second goal post is pulled in a direction away from the cross bar.
20. The goal according to claim 19, wherein the second set of hinges only permit the first and second goal posts and first and second ground posts to be folded to a position extending along the cross bar and the rear ground cross bar in side-by-side relation when the first, second, third, and fourth hinges are in an exposed condition.