Ball game with a face mask paddle

Abstract

A ball game apparatus includes a face mask assembly configured to be worn on a player's face and a paddle integrated with and projecting outwardly from a front surface of the face mask assembly. The face mask assembly includes elastic loops for securing it to the player's head and an adjusting element for improved fit. The paddle comprises a base integrated with the face mask assembly, a blade extending outwardly from the base, and a rubber layer attached to an upper surface of the blade. The game includes a goal having a body with a front opening configured to receive balls, which players push along a ground surface using the face mask paddle assembly. The face mask assembly is constructed from durable, lightweight materials to support the integrated paddle while maintaining comfort during play. The game provides a novel recreational activity combining elements of face masks and paddle-based ball games in an innovative way.

Description

II. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to ball game equipment and accessories, and more particularly to a novel ball game apparatus incorporating a face mask with an integrated paddle assembly. Specifically, the invention pertains to a recreational game system wherein players wear protective face masks equipped with forward-projecting paddles designed to push balls along a ground surface toward a designated goal. The invention combines elements of personal protective equipment with sporting equipment in a unique configuration that enables a new form of competitive play while maintaining player safety and comfort. This innovative combination creates an entirely new category of recreational activity that bridges the gap between traditional paddle-based games and face mask applications.2. Description of the Related Art

[0002] Several designs for games for fitness have been designed in the past. None of them, however, include a facemask with an integrated paddle.

[0003] Applicant believes that a related reference corresponds to U.S. Pat. No. 3,814,430, which discloses a ball game where the players strike the balls with handheld mallets. Applicant believes that another related reference corresponds to U.S. Pat. No. 5,027,992, which discloses a headband device with an upright stem that is used to support a lightweight. None of these references, however, teach of a ball game with a face mask paddle that is comprised of a ball game where the player pushes balls on a ground surface into a goal using a face mask assembly with an integrated paddle that projects outwardly from the front of the face mask.

[0004] Other documents describing the closest subject matter provide for a number of more or less complicated features that fail to solve the problem in an efficient and economical way. None of these patents suggest the novel features of the present invention.III. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] It is one of the objects of the present invention to provide a ball game with a face mask paddle, wherein the integration of the paddle with the face mask assembly allows players to control and push the ball without using their hands, promoting unique gameplay mechanics and enhancing coordination skills It is another object of this invention to provide a ball game with a face mask paddle. This innovative device introduces a novel recreational activity that combines elements of ball games and paddle-based interaction, fostering creativity, teamwork, and physical exercise in an entertaining and engaging way.

[0006] It is still another object of the present invention to provide a ball game with a face mask paddle that explores new techniques for a fun game that encourages fitness.

[0007] It is yet another object of this invention to provide such a device that is inexpensive to implement and maintain while retaining its effectiveness.

[0008] Further objects of the invention will be brought out in the following part of the specification, wherein detailed description is for the purpose of fully disclosing the invention without placing limitations thereon.IV. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] With the above and other related objects in view, the invention consists in the details of construction and combination of parts as will be more fully understood from the following description, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0010] FIG. 1 represents an operational view of the present invention;

[0011] FIG. 2 shows a perspective operational view of the present invention;

[0012] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the present invention according to an exemplary embodiment thereof;

[0013] FIG. 4 is a representation of a front perspective view of the present invention according to an embodiment thereof.

[0014] FIG. 5 illustrates a rear perspective view of the present invention according to an embodiment thereof.

[0015] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the goal.V. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Referring now to the drawings, where the present invention is generally referred to with numeral 10, it can be observed that it basically includes a facemask 20 with an integral paddle 40. It should be understood there are modifications and variations of the invention that are too numerous to be listed but that all fit within the scope of the invention. Also, singular words should be read as plural and vice versa and masculine as feminine and vice versa, where appropriate, and alternative embodiments do not necessarily imply that the two are mutually exclusive.

[0017] The facemask 20 comprises a mask 24 with elastic loops. In a preferred embodiment, the facemask 20 may include a first elastic loop 22a and a second elastic loop 22b as shown throughout the FIGS; however, the number of loops may vary situationally to accommodate the user's needs. In one embodiment, the mask 24 may feature an adjusting element 26 for a better adjustment on the user's face. For instance, in one embodiment, the adjusting element 26 may be materialized as a nose bridge. In one embodiment, the elastic loops may be attached to lateral sides of the mask 24. The elastic loops may be secured around the user's head, one at the top and one at the bottom, from ear to ear (lateral sides). In a preferred embodiment, the elastic loops may be large enough to be secured around the user's head to distribute the pressure more evenly across the user's head and neck, reducing strain on the ears, which can be uncomfortable during prolonged use. In one embodiment, the first elastic loop 22a may be placed above the second elastic loop 22b, whereas the second elastic loop 22b may be proximal to the bottom edge of the mask 24. Masks are typically made from a variety of materials, each chosen for its specific properties such as comfort, breathability, filtration, and durability. In the case of the present invention, since the paddle 40 is integral to the facemask 20, the mask 24 may be made of hard plastic with holes 27 all over the body of the mask for ventilation and a soft plastic / cushion inside 28 (to protect the nose), said material may not be compromised by the weight of the paddle 40.

[0018] The mask 24 may be made from strong, durable, and lightweight materials. As shown throughout the FIGS. The paddle 40 may be integrated onto a front surface of the facemask 20 located under the mouth.

[0019] The paddle 40 may comprise a blade 42 with a base 41, wherein the blade 42 may receive the rubber 44. The base 41 may define the interface between the paddle 40 and the facemask 20. In a preferred embodiment, the blade 42 may measure 11 inches in length, 8 inches in width, and 5 inches in height. The blade 42 may be made of wood or similar materials as known in the art. It is customary to glue the rubber 44 onto both sides of the blade 42, but given the nature of the present invention, it may be suitable for the rubber 44 to be solely attached to the upper surface of the blade 42 to create the configuration shown in the FIGS. In a suitable embodiment, the rubber 44 may be customized to contour to the blade 42.

[0020] The present invention 10, may further include a goal 50, also termed as target. The goal 50 may comprise a body 52 with a front opening 54. The body 52 may feature a regular or irregular geometry. For instance, in FIG. 1, the body 52 is shown having a trapezoidal shape, however, in alternative embodiments, the body 52 may have different shapes. In a preferred embodiment, the goal will measure 11 inches in length, 8 inches in width, and 5 inches in height. The goal 50 may be dimensioned to receive multiple balls 56 therein, wherein the balls 56 may be no-bounce balls (such as golf balls). The balls 56 may be of different sizes and weights. In al alternative embodiment, the balls 56 may feature LED lights. The balls 56 may be thrown inside the goal 50 through the front opening 54. Wherein the entrance to the goal may have an inclination or slope 55, that seves as a stopper in order to prevent the ball from exiting the goal once it goes through.

[0021] The foregoing description conveys the best understanding of the objectives and advantages of the present invention. Different embodiments may be made of the inventive concept of this invention. It is to be understood that all matter disclosed herein is to be interpreted merely as illustrative, and not in a limiting sense.

Claims

1. A ball game apparatus comprising:a face mask assembly configured to be worn on a player's face;a paddle integrated with and projecting outwardly from a front surface of said face mask assembly;a plurality of balls configured to be pushed along a ground surface; anda goal configured to receive said balls;wherein said paddle is positioned to enable a player wearing said face mask assembly to push said balls along said ground surface toward said goal.

2. The ball game apparatus of claim 1, wherein said face mask assembly comprises:a mask body; andtwo elastic loops attached to said mask body for securing said face mask assembly to the player's head.

3. The ball game apparatus of claim 2, wherein said face mask assembly comprises:a first elastic loop attached to upper lateral sides of said mask body; anda second elastic loop attached to lower lateral sides of said mask body.

4. The ball game apparatus of claim 2, wherein said mask body comprises an adjusting element configured to conform to the player's face.

5. The ball game apparatus of claim 4, wherein said adjusting element comprises a nose bridge.

6. The ball game apparatus of claim 1, wherein said face mask comprises a cushion layer inside.

7. The ball game apparatus of claim 1, wherein said paddle comprises:a base integrated with said front surface of said face mask assembly;a blade extending outwardly from said base; anda rubber layer attached to an upper surface of said blade.

8. The ball game apparatus of claim 7, wherein said blade has a flat, circular shape.

9. The ball game apparatus of claim 1, wherein said goal comprises:a body defining an interior space; anda front opening with a stopper configured to receive and retain said balls into said interior space.

10. The ball game apparatus of claim 9, wherein said body has a trapezoidal shape.

11. The ball game apparatus of claim 1, wherein said balls comprise golf balls.

12. The ball game apparatus of claim 1, wherein said face mask assembly is constructed from a hard plastic.

13. The ball game apparatus of claim 1, wherein said face mask assembly is dimensioned to distribute pressure evenly across the player's head when worn.

14. A ball game apparatus consisting of:a face mask assembly configured to be worn on a player's face;a paddle integrated with and projecting outwardly from a front surface of said face mask assembly;a plurality of balls configured to be pushed along a ground surface; anda goal configured to receive said balls;wherein said paddle is positioned to enable a player wearing said face mask assembly to push said balls along said ground surface toward said goal.

Images