Patent Application
20170325579
Traditional recreational basketball games (e.g., Pop-A-Shot®) often require a substantial amount of floor space for game play. While the backboard itself has a relatively flat profile (e.g., a flat wall with a rim), the side boundary nets and center return net extend far beyond the backboard. The center return net, specifically, must extend all the way to the user, such that made and missed basketballs are returned to the user. These nets often require structural support, such as poles and bars. Effective storage of the recreational basketball game, including these poles and bars, is an important concern. Ideally, recreational basketball games, and related structural supports, should be designed so that assembly and disassembly is efficient and easy for the user.
Assembly and disassembly of known basketball games may utilize locking mechanisms and, more particularly, quick-locking mechanisms to secure portions of the structure together. Quick-locking mechanisms such as snap clamps and spring-loaded devices allow structural components to be fastened to one another in an efficient manner. For example, snap clamps may employ a flexible fitting, which may be attached (i.e., snapped) and detached (i.e., unsnapped) from a rod or bar. The flexible fitting may be used to fasten multiple rods or bars together or, alternatively, to fasten other components (e.g., a tarp or cloth) to a rod or bar. Likewise, for example, spring-loaded devices may be retractable spring plungers. The body of the spring plunger may be disposed into a hole of a rod or bar, and spring-biased into the hole. By pulling on the spring plunger, the body of the spring plunger may be removed (i.e., retracted) from the hole for the particular rod or bar.
While being effective, quick-locking mechanisms are often not optimized for user interaction. Quick-locking mechanisms may require multiple components (e.g., a snap clamp requiring two individual rods and a flexible fitting). Additionally, many quick-locking mechanisms are designed for high-strength use. Materials selection regarding the quick-lock mechanisms, for example, may be driven by durability concerns; thus, metal-on-metal may be used. Likewise, quick-lock mechanisms may be spring loaded (e.g., retractable spring plungers) and thus have high force requirements for engagement and disengagement. These quick-lock mechanisms may not be ideal for in-home use because of high spring-force operations, pinch points could result in injury, etc. Concerns such as these become all the more relevant with products that will be used by single users and/or children.
The present disclosure relates generally to an easy fold locking mechanism. More particularly, a gaming-table support locking apparatus is configured to enable a user to quickly assemble and disassemble structural components, such as the game apparatus, to/from storage-mode and play-mode. In storage-mode, the basketball game apparatus has a nearly flat profile, enhancing ease of storage.
In an example embodiment, a gaming-table support locking apparatus includes a first hinge bar, a second hinge bar, and a tab connector. The first hinge bar includes a first end configured to connect to a first bar of a gaming-table support and a second end including a tab notch. The second hinge bar includes a first end configured to connect to a second bar of the gaming-table support and a second end rotatably connected to the first hinge bar. The second hinge bar additionally includes a window located between the first end and the second end of the second hinge bar. The tab connector includes a base, a locking section, and a release section. The base is configured to connect to the second hinge bar at the window. The locking section has a first height to extend from the base through the window for engaging the tab notch to form a secure connection. The release section, connected to the locking section, has a second height, greater than the first height, to extend from the base through the window for receiving a force from a user. The release section is configured to be depressed toward the base causing the locking section to disengage from the tab notch.
In another example embodiment, a method of unlocking a gaming-table support locking apparatus includes disengaging a locking section of a tab connector. Disengaging the locking section of the tab connector includes inputting, by a user, a force on a release section of the tab connector. Disengaging the locking section of the tab connector additionally includes, responsive to receiving the force from the user, bending the tab connector about a fulcrum. The fulcrum is a rotatable connection between a first hinge bar and a second hinge bar, and a base of the tab connector is attached to the rotatable connection. Disengaging the locking section of the tab connector additionally includes depressing the release section of the tab connector towards the base of the tab connector, causing the locking section of the tab connector to disengage from a tab notch on the first hinge bar. The method of unlocking the gaming-table support locking apparatus further includes visually ensuring that the locking section of the tab connector has been disengaged from the tab notch on the first hinge bar. The method of unlocking the gaming-table support locking apparatus further includes rotating the second hinge bar, including the window, about the first hinge bar.
In yet another example embodiment, a gaming-table apparatus includes two side support panels and a backboard panel disposed between the two side support panels and including at least one hinged basketball rim. Each of the two side support panels includes a first bar of a gaming-table support, a second bar of a gaming-table support, and a gaming-table support locking apparatus. Each gaming-table support locking apparatus includes a first hinge bar including a first end configured to connect to the first bar of a gaming-table support and a second end including a tab notch. Each gaming-table support locking apparatus additionally includes a second hinge bar. The second hinge bar includes a first end configured to connect to the second bar of the gaming-table support and a second end rotatably connected to the first hinge bar. The second hinge bar additionally includes a window located between the first end and the second end of the second hinge bar. The second hinge bar additionally includes a tab connector having a base, a locking section, and a release section. The base is configured to connect to the second hinge bar at the window. The locking section has a first height extending from the base through the window for engaging the tab notch to form a secure connection. The release section is connected to the locking section and has a second height, greater than the first height, extending from the base through the window for receiving a force from a user. The release section is configured to be depressed toward the base causing the locking section to disengage from the tab notch.
Additional features and advantages of the disclosed method and apparatus are described in, and will be apparent from, the following Detailed Description and the Figures.
As used herein, the terms “a” or “an” shall mean one or more than one. The term “plurality” shall mean two or more than two. The term “another” is defined as a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having” are open ended (e.g., comprising). The term “or” as used herein is to be interpreted as inclusive or meaning any one or any combination. Therefore, “A, B or C” means “any of the following: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; A, B and C”. An exception to this definition will occur only when a combination of elements, functions, steps or acts are in some way inherently mutually exclusive.
Reference throughout this document to “one embodiment,” “certain embodiments,” “an embodiment,” or similar term means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of such phrases in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner on one or more embodiments without limitation.
Referring now to the figures,
Each of the two side panels 101A-B of the basketball game apparatus 100 additionally includes a side boundary net 104A-B. Further, each of the two side panels 101A-B additionally includes a first bar of a gaming-table support 106 and a second bar of a gaming-table support 105. In other example embodiments, each side panel 101A and 101B may include additional bars of the gaming-table support (e.g., a third bar of the gaming-table support 110 and a fourth bar of the gaming-table support 111). Each of the first bar of the gaming-table support 106 and the second bar of the gaming-table support 105 are configured to support a portion of the basketball game apparatus 100 above the floor. For example, the first bar of the gaming-table support 106 and the second bar of the gaming-table support 105 may support a side boundary net (e.g., side boundary net 104A). Support may be enhanced by implementation of the additional bars of the gaming-table support (e.g., the third bar of the gaming-table support 110 and the fourth bar of the gaming-table support 111). Likewise, the second bar of the gaming-table support 105 supports a portion of the backboard panel 102. In an alternate example embodiment, only the second bar of the gaming-table support 105 supports the side boundary net (e.g., side boundary net 104A). In a different alternate example embodiment, both the first bar of the gaming-table support 106 and the second bar of the gaming-table support 105 are configured to support a portion of a center return net 108. Each of the two side panels 101A-B may additionally include at least one gaming-table support locking apparatus (e.g., gaming-table support locking apparatus 107). In other embodiments, each of the two side panels 101A-B may include multiple gaming-table support locking apparatus. In other embodiments, each of the two side panels 101A-B may include additional features such as hinges (e.g., first hinge 120 and second hinge 121).
In an example embodiment, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 may be disposed between the first bar of the gaming-table support 106 and the second bar of the gaming-table support 105. The gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 may be fixed to each of the first bar of the gaming-table support 106 and the second bar of the gaming-table support 105 by respective hinge bars, such as a first hinge bar and a second hinge bar. As used herein, each of the first hinge bar and the second hinge bar are configured to connect to a bar of the gaming-table support (e.g., the first bar of the gaming-table support 106). Likewise, each of the first hinge bar and the second hinge bar are configured to be rotatably connectable to one another, such that one of the hinge bars (e.g., the second hinge bar) may rotate with respect to another hinge bar (e.g., the first hinge bar). The first hinge bar and the second hinge bar are only two features of the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107; there are many other features.
The gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 may additionally include a window, a tab connector, and a tab notch each of which are described in greater detail below. The first hinge bar may include the tab notch. The second hinge bar may include the window, such as a hole, aperture, or geometric void. The tab connector may be connected to the second hinge bar at or near the window. The tab connector may extend through the window, such that it engages with the tab notch. This engagement, as described in greater detail below, especially with reference to
As disclosed herein, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 remedies the deficiencies associated with traditional quick-locking mechanisms. For example, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 is self contained. It does not require a number of different components that could be lost or misplaced (e.g., a snap clamp with a flexible fitting and two rods or bars). Likewise, for example, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 is designed to require an ideal force (e.g., the pushing force from one finger of the user) for unlocking or release. It does not require the high-forces associated with many spring-loaded devices. The mechanical design of the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 provides for secure connections in both locked and unlocked states.
Additionally, for example, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 provides for visual identification of the mechanism's condition (i.e., locked or unlocked). For example, the user may visually identify that the hinge bars on the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 are aligned, and thus assume that the mechanism is in a locked condition; alternatively, if the hinge bars on the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 are not aligned, the user may assume that the mechanism is in an unlocked condition. Likewise, for example, the user may visually identify a portion of the tab connector passing through the tab notch, and thus assume that the mechanism is in a locked condition; alternatively, if the tab connector does not pass through the tab notch, the user may assume that the mechanism is in an unlocked condition. The gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 performs each of these functions while optimizing additional constraints (e.g., materials selection) and minimizing the risk of injury (e.g., pinch point injuries). For example, by having the ability to visually identify when the mechanism is in an unlocked condition, the user is less likely to injure themselves while inadvertently rotating the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 (as disclosed below). Rather, the user can visually identify that the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 is unlocked (or locked) and interact with the apparatus accordingly. This makes the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 ideal for in-home use and particularly ideal for use with basketball game apparatus 100.
The backboard panel 102 may include additional features such as visual graphics, an electronic scoreboard, a manual scoreboard, a whiteboard or chalkboard, video camera technology, audio technology, speakers, etc. In other example embodiments, the backboard panel 102 may be configured for other types of games such as any one of billiards, foosball, bumper billiards, air hockey, table tennis, target toss, pinball soccer, finger football, bowling, chess, checkers, Chinese checkers, backgammon, basketball toss, football toss, bean bag toss, etc. Likewise, an alternate example embodiment, the backboard panel 102 may be configured to multi-game options (e.g., 6-in-1 or 20-in-1 gaming-table configurations). In alternate example embodiments, the first bar of the gaming-table support 106, the second bar of the gaming-table support 105, and the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 may be configured to support these other types of games. In an example embodiment, the backboard panel 102 includes a plurality of basketball rims 103 (e.g., two or more). Likewise, the basketball rim 103 may include additional features such as a net, an electronic scoring sensor, a manual scoring sensor, etc.
The basketball game apparatus 100 may additionally include a center return net 108, disposed between the two side panels 101A-B. The center return net 108 may extend from the backboard panel 102 out toward a user. The center return net 108 may end at a cross bar 109. The center return net 108, in addition to the side boundary net 104A-B on each side panel 101A and 101B, may catch objects (e.g., basketballs) and send them to the user. For this reason, the center return net 108 typically has a downward slope (i.e., extending towards the floor as it extends away from the backboard panel 102). The cross bar 109 serves as a stop-point for any objects caught by the center return net 108. For example, once a basketball is caught by the center return net 108, it rolls downward along the slope of the center return net 108 until it is stopped by the cross bar 109. The cross bar may include additional features that may interact with the backboard panel 102. For example, if the backboard panel 102 includes an electronic scoreboard, the cross bar 109 may include a control panel, from which the user may select game-type, number of players, scoring limit, time limit, etc. Communications with the backboard panel 102 may be wired and/or wireless.
As illustrated, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 is in a locked orientation, such that, the hinge bars associated with the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 are aligned with one another. In the locked orientation, the hinge bars may not rotate with respect to one another (as described in greater detail below with reference to
As compared to
In an example embodiment, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 includes a first hinge bar 410 and a second hinge bar 420. In an example embodiment, the first hinge bar 410 and the second hinge bar 420 have rectangular shapes. In an example embodiment, the first hinge bar 410 and the second hinge bar 420 are comprised of a rigid material. For example, the rigid material may be any one of a rigid plastic, a metal, or any other material with a high modulus of elasticity (i.e., low flexibility). The first hinge bar 410 has a first end that is configured to connect to a first bar of a gaming-table support 106. The first hinge bar 410 also has a second end that has a tab notch 411. In an example embodiment, the tab notch 411 is a geometric void, disposed on an edge of the second end of the first hinge bar 410. In an example embodiment, the tab notch 411 has a rectangular profile. In an alternate example embodiment, the tab notch 411 has a different geometric profile, such as circular, half-circular, elliptical, triangular, hexagonal, octagonal, hooked, J-shaped, U-shaped, or any other geometric profile.
The second hinge bar 420 includes a first end that is configured to connect to a second bar of a gaming-table support 105. The second hinge bar 420 also has a second end that is rotatably connectable to the first hinge bar 410. In an example embodiment, the rotatable connection is made a location on or near the second end of the second hinge bar 420 and at a location on the first hinge bar 410 between the first end of the first hinge bar 410 and the second end of the first hinge bar 410. More particularly, the rotatable connection is made a location on or near the second end of the second hinge bar 420 and at a location on the first hinge bar 410 near the second end of the first hinge bar 410. In an example embodiment, this rotatable connection is a riveted lap joint. In alternate example embodiments, this rotatable connection may be a riveted butt joint, a butt hinge, a t-hinge, a strap hinge, a gate hinge, or any other equivalent type of hinge, joint, or linkage.
The second hinge bar 420 additionally includes a window 421. In an example embodiment, the window 421 is a geometric void, disposed on the second hinge bar 420. In an example embodiment, the window 421 has a rectangular profile. For example, the window 421 may be dimensioned to have a length of one inch, and a width of one-half inch. In alternate examples, the window 421 may have larger or smaller dimensions. In an alternate example embodiment, the window 421 has a different geometric profile, such as circular, half-circular, elliptical, triangular, hexagonal, octagonal, hooked, J-shaped, U-shaped, or any other geometric profile. The window 421 is located between the first end and the second end of the second hinge bar 420. More preferably, the window 421 is located near the second end of the second hinge bar 420. Additionally, the window 421 is disposed entirely within the second hinge bar 420, such that none of the geometric void defining the window 421 intersects an edge of the second hinge bar 420. In an alternate example embodiment, at least a portion of the geometric void defining the window 421 intersects at least one edge of the second hinge bar 420.
The gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 additionally includes a tab connector 422, which is described in greater detail with reference to
In an example embodiment, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 additionally includes an extrusion 430 and an extrusion notch 431. The extrusion 430 and extrusion notch 431 may restrict rotation between the first hinge bar 410 and the second hinge bar 420 in a given direction. Constraining the first hinge bar 410 and the second hinge bar 420 to only rotate in a given direction ensures proper folding of the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 and the basketball game apparatus 100. For example, the extrusion 430 and extrusion notch 431 ensure that individual components of the basketball game apparatus 100 (e.g., the first bar of the gaming-table support 106 and the second bar of the gaming-table support 105) do not fold in the wrong direction.
For example, the first hinge bar 410 has an extrusion 430, disposed on an edge of the first hinge bar 410 (e.g., a top edge of the first hinge bar 410). In an example embodiment, the extrusion 430 is a portion of the first hinge bar 410 extending in the direction perpendicular to the first hinge bar 410 and towards the tab connector 422 (e.g., a portion of the first hinge bar 410 with a thickness that is greater than that of the first hinge bar 410). Because the extrusion 430 has an extrusion thickness that is greater than a thickness of the first hinge bar 410, the extrusion 430 extends beyond the first hinge bar 410. In an example embodiment, the extrusion 430 has a rectangular profile. In an alternate example embodiment, the extrusion 430 has a different geometric profile, such as circular, half-circular, elliptical, triangular, hexagonal, octagonal, hooked, J-shaped, U-shaped, or any other geometric profile.
Likewise, for example, the second hinge bar 420 has an extrusion notch 431. The extrusion notch 431 is a geometric void, disposed on an edge of the second hinge bar 420 (e.g., a top edge of the second hinge bar 420). In an example embodiment, the extrusion notch 431 has a rectangular profile, larger than that of the extrusion 430. In an alternate example embodiment, the extrusion notch 431 has a different geometric profile, such as circular, half-circular, elliptical, triangular, hexagonal, octagonal, hooked, J-shaped, U-shaped, or any other geometric profile. As disclosed above, the extrusion 430 and the extrusion notch 431 are disposed on the same edge (i.e., the top edge) of their respective hinge bars. In a different example embodiment, the extrusion 430 and the extrusion notch 431 are disposed on a different edge (e.g., the bottom edge) of their respective hinge bars.
The extrusion notch 431 is aligned with the extrusion 430, such that the extrusion 430 engages with the extrusion notch 431 as the extrusion 430 extends in the direction perpendicular to the first hinge bar 410 and towards the tab connector 422. For example, the extrusion 430 extends in the direction perpendicular to the first hinge bar 410 and towards the tab connector 422. The extrusion 430 passes through at least a portion of the extrusion notch 431. In this way, the extrusion 430, which is disposed on the first hinge bar 410, intersects at least a portion the extrusion notch 431 on the second hinge bar 420. This intersection, between a component of the first hinge bar 410 (e.g., the extrusion 430) with a component of the second hinge bar 420 (e.g., the extrusion notch 431) may restrict rotation between the first hinge bar 410 and the second hinge bar 420 in a given direction. Restriction of rotation is described in additional detail below with reference to
As previously disclosed, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 includes a tab connector 422. More particularly, the tab connector 422 includes a base 523, a locking section 524 and a release section 525. In an example embodiment, the base 523 is a molded plastic piece that is configured to connect to both the second hinge bar 420 and to other components of the tab connector 422 (e.g., the locking section 524 and release section 525). In a different example embodiment, the base 523 is made up of a different flexible material such as flexible plastic, rubber, etc. The base 523 is configured to connect to the second hinge bar 420 at the window 421. In a different example embodiment, the base 523 is configured to connect to the second hinge bar 420 at a location near the window 421. The base 523 connects to the second hinge bar 420 on the side opposite the first hinge bar 410 (e.g., the second hinge bar 420 is between the base 523 and the first hinge bar 410). The base 523 has a rectangular profile, and is relatively thin (e.g., a thickness comparable to the thickness of the second hinge bar 420). In other example embodiments, the base 523 may be thicker and/or have a different geometric profile, such as circular, half-circular, elliptical, triangular, hexagonal, octagonal, hooked, J-shaped, U-shaped, or any other geometric profile. In an example embodiment, the width of the base 523 is slightly less than that of the window 421. This ensures that the base 523 and additional components of the tab connector 422 (e.g., the locking section 524 and release section 525) may at least partially pass through the window 421 in certain configurations.
The tab connector 422 further includes the locking section 524. In an example embodiment, the locking section 524 is a molded plastic piece that is configured to connect to the base 523. In a different example embodiment, the locking section 524 is made up of a different flexible material such as flexible plastic, rubber, etc. The locking section 524 connects to the base 523 on the side of the base 523 closer to the first hinge bar 410 (e.g., in a direction from the base 523 towards the window 421). The locking section 524 has a rectangular profile, and is relatively thick, compared to the base 523. For example, the locking section 524 has a first height extending from the base 523 through the window 421, such that the entire rectangular profile of the locking section 524 extends through the window 421. In other example embodiments, locking section 524 may have a different geometric profile, such as circular, half-circular, elliptical, triangular, hexagonal, octagonal, hooked, J-shaped, U-shaped, or any other geometric profile. In an example embodiment, the profile of the locking section 524 is slightly less than the width of the window 421. This ensures that the entire profile of the locking section 524 may extend through the window 421.
Additionally, the locking section 524 extends from the base 523, through the window 421, and through the tab notch 411, such that it engages the tab notch 411 to form a secure connection. More particularly, by engagement, the locking section 524 has the first height, extending from the base 523, in the direction perpendicular to the second hinge bar 420 and towards the window 421. The locking section 524 passes through the window 421. Likewise, the locking section 524 passes through at least a portion of the tab notch 411. In this way, the locking section 524, which is disposed on the second hinge bar 420, intersects at least a portion of the tab notch 411 on the first hinge bar 410. This intersection between a component of the second hinge bar 420 (e.g., the locking section 524) with a component of the first hinge bar 410 (e.g., the tab notch 411) forms a secure connection that restricts rotation between the first hinge bar 410 and the second hinge bar 420. For example, the first hinge bar 410 cannot rotate with respect to the second hinge bar 420 (and vice-a-versa) because if the first hinge bar 410 rotates, the tab notch 411 likewise would rotate, but the locking section 524 (which is not attached to the first hinge bar 410) would not rotate. Thus, the presence of the locking section 524 intersecting the tab notch 411 restricts rotation.
The tab connector 422 further includes the release section 525. In an example embodiment, the release section 525 is a molded plastic piece that is configured to connect to the base 523 and the locking section 524. In a related example embodiment, the base 523, the locking section 524, and the release section 525 are one single component (e.g., an injection molded plastic component). In a different example embodiment, the release section 525 is made up of a different flexible material such as flexible plastic, rubber, etc. The release section 525 connects to the base 523 on the side of the base 523 closer to the first hinge bar 410 (e.g., in a direction from the base 523 towards the window 421). Likewise, the release section 525 is connected to the locking section 524. The release section 525 has a rectangular profile, and is relatively thick, compared to the base 523. For example, the release section 525 has a second height, greater than the first height of the locking section 524. The second height of the release section extends from the base 523 through the window 421, such that the entire rectangular profile of the locking section 524 extends through the window 421. In other example embodiments, release section 525 may have a different geometric profile, such as circular, half-circular, elliptical, triangular, hexagonal, octagonal, hooked, J-shaped, U-shaped, or any other geometric profile. In an example embodiment, the profile of the release section 525 is slightly less than the width of the window 421. This ensures that the entire profile of the release section 525 may extend through the window 421.
In an example embodiment, there are some notable differences between the release section 525 and the locking section 524. For example, the release section 525 has a second height greater than the first height of the locking section 524. Though the release section 525 extends from the base 523, through the window 421, the release section 525 does not extend through the tab notch 411. Rather, the release section 525 does not intersect the geometric void defined by the tab notch 411 in any way. Additionally, because the release section 525 has a second height greater than the first height of the locking section 524, the release section 525 is configured to receive force from a user (as explained below with reference to
More specifically, for example, a user may depress the tab connector 422 by pushing on the release section 525 in a direction perpendicular to the second hinge bar 420 and towards the base 523, to release the tab connector 422. More particularly, by release, the user depresses the tab connector 422 (e.g., pushes on the tab connector 422 with a finger), and more particularly depresses the release section 525 of the tab connector 422. In an example embodiment, the release section 525 of the tab connector 422 includes a tactile feature (e.g., bumps, ridges, concave/convex indentation, etc.) configured to receive force (e.g., tactile force) from the user. In alternate example embodiments, the force may be via other mechanical actuation, electro-mechanical actuation, robotics, etc. In an alternate example embodiment, the tab connector 422 may be depressed through other means such as with an external tool. In a different alternate example embodiment, the tab connector 422, and more particularly the base 423 has an external grip, such that the tab connector 422 may be pulled, via the external grip, from the side of the base 423 as opposed to being depressed from the side of the release section 525.
In response to depressing the release section 525, the tab connector 422 is at least partially actuated through the window 421. For example, in an example embodiment, responsive to receiving the physical actuation, the tab connector 422 bends about a fulcrum, the fulcrum being location where the base 523 of the tab connector 422 is connected to the second hinge bar 420 (e.g., the tab connector 422 may act as a Class 2 lever). The release section 525 is configured to be depressed toward the base 523. As previously noted, the release section 525 is connected to both the base 523 and the locking section 524. Alternatively, the base 523, the locking section 524, and the release section 525 are one single component (e.g., an injection molded plastic component). Because the release section 525 and the locking section 524 are both connected to the base 523, as the release section 525 is depressed toward the base 523 the locking section 524, likewise, is depressed toward the base 523. This causes the locking section 524 to disengage from the tab notch 411.
More particularly, by disengagement, the locking section 524 has the first height, extending from the base 523, in the direction perpendicular to the second hinge bar 420 and towards the window 421. The locking section 524 passes through the window 421. However, the locking section 524 no longer passes through at least a portion of the tab notch 411. In other words, the locking section 524, which is disposed on the second hinge bar 420, no longer intersects at least a portion of the tab notch 411, on the first hinge bar 410. The secure connection, which restricted rotation between the first hinge bar 410 and the second hinge bar 420, has been eliminated, such that the locking section 524 no longer restricts rotation of the second hinge bar 420 about the first hinge bar 410. At the same time, though depressed, the release section 525 may still extend at least partially through the window 421. This ensures that the user (e.g., the user's finger) is not contacting the first hinge bar 410 or the second hinge bar 420. For example, the user's finger remains on the release section 525, which is at least partially raised and is thus clear of the tab notch 411 and the window 421. This ensures that the user's finger does not come into contact with pinch points (e.g., the first hinge bar 410, the second hinge bar 420, the tab notch 411, or the window 421) as the first hinge bar 410 and the second hinge 420 bar rotate (as described below and illustrated by
In an example embodiment, the window 421 and a portion of the tab connector 422, including the locking section 524 and the release section 525 have equivalent shapes. For example, the window 421 may have a rectangular shape. Likewise, the locking section 524 and the release section 525 have a rectangular shape. In this sense, the locking section 524 and the release section 525 extend from the base 523 through the window 421, such that a minimal gap exists between the perimeter of the locking section 524 and the release section 525, and the window 421. While the example embodiment above explains a rectangular-shaped configuration, the window 421 and a portion of the tab connector 422, including the locking section 524 and the release section 525 may have other geometric shapes (e.g., circular, half-circular, elliptical, triangular, hexagonal, octagonal, or any other geometric shape). For example, the locking section 524 and the release section 525 may each be a half-circle, such that combined they form a complete circular shape. Likewise, for example, the window 421 may have a circular shape, such that a minimal gap exists between the perimeter of the locking section 524 and the release section 525, and the window 421.
In a different example embodiment, components may be reversed. For example, the tab connector 422, including the base 523, the locking section 524, and the release section 525, and the window 421 may be disposed on the first hinge bar 410. Likewise, the tab notch 411 may be disposed on the second hinge bar 420. In another different example embodiment, there may be a plurality of windows and a plurality of tab connectors disposed on a single bar. For example, the second hinge bar 420 may have a plurality of windows and a plurality of tab connectors. Likewise, for example, the first hinge bar 410 may have a plurality of tab notches.
Prior to the release section 525 being depressed towards the base 523 (and the locking section 524 disengaging from the tab notch 411), the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 is in a locked orientation. For example, and as previously noted the locking section 524 of the tab connector 422 extends from the base 523 through the window 421. The locking section 524 engages the tab notch 411 and forms a secure connection. Thus, the second hinge bar 420 is restricted from rotating about the first hinge bar 410 in either direction. In this sense, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 is locked.
More particularly, and as previously noted, the second hinge bar 420 and the first hinge bar 410 are rotatably connected. In an example embodiment, this rotatable connection is a riveted lap joint. The second hinge 420 bar may rotate about the first hinge bar 410 such that the second hinge bar 420 may be aligned in relation to the first hinge bar 410, as illustrated by
In an example embodiment, the first hinge bar 410 includes a flare 710. For example, the flare 710 is a corner of the first hinge bar 410 that extends away from the second hinge bar 420. The flare 710 may encourage proper alignment between the first hinge bar 410 and the second hinge bar 420 as the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 transitions from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration. Additionally, the flare 710 may facilitate the transition from unlocked configuration to a locked configuration. For example, the gradual slope of the flare 710 will ensure that the tab connector 422 (more particularly the locking section 524) is properly engaged (i.e., not extending through the window 421) as the first hinge bar 410 and the second hinge bar 420 rotate to a locked configuration.
In a related example embodiment, rotation may be restricted in a particular direction, or to a particular degree. For example,
In an example embodiment, with reference to
In an example embodiment, the basketball game apparatus 100 may include additional structural limitations. For example, and with reference to
In an example embodiment, by releasing the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 on side panel 101A, and likewise releasing the gaming-table support locking apparatus on side panel 101B, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 rotates (on each side panel). Likewise, the first bar of the gaming-table support 106 rotates up to the second bar of the gaming-table support 105. The third bar of the gaming-table support 110 and the fourth bar of the gaming-table support 111 rotate with respect to the first hinge 120 and the second hinge 121. In this way, the entire basketball game apparatus 100 may fold into a compact flattened configuration.
For example, in an example embodiment, the process of folding the basketball game apparatus 100 includes unlocking two side panels 101A-B, including releasing the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 on side panel 101A, and likewise releasing the gaming-table support locking apparatus on side panel 101B. Additionally, the user may rotate the fourth bar of the gaming-table support 111 about the second hinge 121, so that the fourth bar of the gaming-table support 111 is underneath and parallel to the third bar of the gaming-table support 110. The user may push the cross bar 109 in a vertical direction towards a floor and in a horizontal direction towards the backboard panel 102, such that the third bar of the gaming-table support 110 and the fourth bar of the gaming-table support 111 rotate about the first hinge 120 to be parallel with the first bar of the gaming-table support 106. These components may then collapse parallel to the second bar of the gaming-table support 105, as long as the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107 is in an unlocked orientation. The user may then raise the hinged basketball rim 103, such that the hinged basketball rim 103 is parallel with the backboard panel 102. The user may then rotate the side boundary net 104A and 104B on each side panel 101A and 101B, such that each side boundary net 104A and 104B is parallel with the backboard panel 102. The user may additionally detach the cross bar 109 from a first end of the fourth bar of the gaming-table support 111 on each of the side panels 101A-B. Once in its compact flattened configuration, the basketball game apparatus 100 may be stored in any storage location (e.g., in a closet, under a bed, behind a door, etc.).
An alternate example basketball game apparatus 900 may include similar structural components while utilizing an alternate gaming-table support locking apparatus 907. In a non-limiting alternate example embodiment, as illustrated by
With reference to
Through implementation of the telescope button 930, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 may be either not engaged (i.e., preventing telescoping) or engaged (i.e., allowing telescoping). For example, when the telescope button 930 is not engaged, it extends through the window of the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907. The first telescoping bar 931 and the second telescoping bar 932 are unable to slide (e.g. telescope) relative to one another because the telescope button 930 extends through the window defined by each of the first telescoping bar 931 and the second telescoping bar 932. However, when the telescope button 930 is engaged by a user, such that it no longer extends through the window of the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907, the first telescoping bar 931 and the second telescoping bar 932 slide (e.g., telescope) relative to one another. For example, the length of the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 may be telescopically adjustable when the telescope button 930 is engaged because the first telescoping bar 931 and the second telescoping bar 932 are able to slide relative to one another.
In an example embodiment, by telescoping, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 may perform a similar function as rotation of the first hinge bar 410 and the second hinge bar 420 by the gaming-table support locking apparatus 107. For example, to close (e.g., collapse) the basketball game apparatus 900, the first bar of the gaming-table support 906 is rotated to be flat and parallel with the second bar of the gaming-table support 905. Because the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 is disposed between the first bar of the gaming-table support 906 and the second bar of the gaming-table support 905, the length of the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 must shorten or reduce as the first bar of the gaming-table support 906 is rotated to be flat and parallel with the second bar of the gaming-table support 905. To create this adjustably shortened length, a telescopically adjustable gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 is used. For example, as the first bar of the gaming-table support 906 is rotated to be flat and parallel with the second bar of the gaming-table support 905, the first telescoping bar 931 slides and is disposed within the second telescoping bar 932, such that the total length of the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 may be shortened or reduced. In this way, a telescopically adjustable gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 may facilitate the collapsing and storage of the basketball game apparatus 900.
Likewise, when the basketball game apparatus 900 is opened (e.g., opened from a collapsed configuration to a playable configuration), the first bar of the gaming-table support 906 is rotated away from the second bar of the gaming-table support 905. Because the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 is disposed between the first bar of the gaming-table support 906 and the second bar of the gaming-table support 905, the length of the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 must extend or increase as the first bar of the gaming-table support 906 is rotated away from the second bar of the gaming-table support 905. To have an extendable length, the first telescoping bar 931 slides away from the second telescoping bar 932, such that the total length of the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 may be extended or increased. In this way, a telescopically adjustable gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 may facilitate the opening of the basketball game apparatus 900.
As disclosed herein, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 is self-contained. It does not require a number of different components that could be lost or misplaced (e.g., a snap clamp with a flexible fitting and two rods or bars). Likewise, for example, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 is configured to require an ideal force (e.g., the pushing force from one finger of the user) for engagement of the telescope button 930. The mechanical design of the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 provides for secure connections in both locked and unlocked states. Additionally, for example, the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 provides for visual identification of the mechanism's condition (i.e., locked or unlocked). For example, the user may visually identify the telescope button 930, and thus assume that the mechanism is in a locked condition; alternatively, if the telescope button 930 on the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 is not visible, the user may assume that the mechanism is in an unlocked condition. The gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 performs each of these functions while optimizing additional constraints (e.g., materials selection) and minimizing the risk of injury (e.g., pinch point injuries). This makes the gaming-table support locking apparatus 907 ideal for in-home use and particularly ideal for use with basketball game apparatus 900.
It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the example embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present subject matter and without diminishing its intended advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be covered by the appended claims.
