PORTABLE PADDLEPOST GAME

Abstract

A paddle sport game includes a portable framework structure comprising a base, a vertical support structure connected to the base, and a horizontal crossbar connected to two vertical arms that form a volley area having a defined space. At least one player is positioned on one side of the framework and at least another player is positioned on the opposite side of the framework. The players using paddles volley a ball through the volley area with the objective being not to allow the ball to hit the ground or to hit the ball below the horizontal crossbar.

Claims

1. A method for playing a portable gaming apparatus comprising: placing a framework on a surface, wherein the framework comprises: a base; a vertical support structure connected to the base; a horizontal structure coupled to the vertical structure apart from the base; and a pair of vertical arms detachably attached to the horizontal structure and defining a volley area having a defined shape, wherein the volley area is completely void between the pair of vertical arms; placing a first player on a first side of the framework and proximate with the framework; placing a second player on a second side of the framework, wherein the second side is opposite the first side and proximate with the framework; hitting a ball through the volley area by the first player using a first paddle; in response to the first player hitting the ball, hitting the ball through the volley area by the second player using a second paddle; volleying back and forth the ball through the volley aea by the first player using the first paddle and the second player using the second paddle until the ball hits the surface or is hit below the horizontal structure.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising assessing a score to the first player or the second player not responsible for hitting the ball to the surface or below the horizontal structure.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the base comprises a foldable base including multiple supporting legs.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the vertical support structure comprises an adjustable vertical support structure.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the pair of vertical arms comprises adjustable arms configured to adjust to define differing configurations.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the pair of vertical arms comprises at least one sensor configured to define a detection area and detect when the ball enters the detection area; and a counter in communication with the at least one sensor to assess a score to the first player or the second player based on the at least one sensor data.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the portable gaming apparatus is configured for use indoors and outdoors and the portable gaming apparatus constructed of a light-weight material for easy assembly and disassembly.

8. A portable gaming apparatus comprising: a framework on a surface, wherein the framework comprises: a base; a vertical support structure connected to the base; a horizontal structure coupled to the vertical structure apart from the base; and a pair of vertical arms detachably attached to the horizontal structure and defining a volley area having a defined shape, wherein the volley area is completely void between the pair of vertical arms; a first player positioned on a first side of the framework and proximate with the framework; a second player positioned on a second side of the framework, wherein the second side is opposite the first side and proximate with the framework; and a ball configured to be volleyed back and forth through the volley area by the first player using a first paddle and the second player using a second paddle until the ball hits the surface or is hit below the horizontal structure.

9. The portable gaming apparatus of claim 8, wherein a score is assessed to the first player or the second player not responsible for hitting the ball to the surface or below the horizontal structure.

10. The portable gaming apparatus of claim 8, wherein the base comprises a foldable base including multiple supporting legs.

11. The portable gaming apparatus of claim 8, wherein the horizontal structure is a crossbar.

12. The portable gaming apparatus of claim 8, wherein each of the vertical arms is configured to couple with the horizontal structure by an elbow connector.

13. The portable gaming apparatus of claim 8, wherein the vertical arms couple with the horizontal structure to define a U-shape.

14. The portable gaming apparatus of claim 8, wherein the vertical support structure comprises an adjustable vertical support structure.

15. The portable gaming apparatus of claim 8, wherein the pair of vertical arms comprises adjustable arms configured to adjust to define differing configurations.

16. The portable gaming apparatus of claim 15, wherein each of the vertical arms is configured to couple with the horizontal structure by an adjustable angle connector.

17. The portable gaming apparatus of claim 16, wherein the adjustable arms define a U-shape.

18. The portable gaming apparatus of claim 16, wherein the adjustable arms configured to be repositionable to define a triangular shape and a trapezoidal shape.

19. The portable gaming apparatus of claim 8, wherein the pair of vertical arms comprises at least one sensor configured to define a detection area and detect when the ball enters the detection area; and a counter in communication with the at least one sensor to assess a score to the first player or the second player based on the at least one sensor data.

20. The portable gaming apparatus of claim 8, wherein the portable gaming apparatus is configured for use indoors and outdoors and the portable gaming apparatus constructed of a light-weight material for easy assembly and disassembly.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a PaddlePost game apparatus in accordance with the present teachings.

[0010] FIGS. 2A-2E illustrate components of the PaddlePost game apparatus of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present teachings.

[0011] FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate a method of assembling the components of the PaddlePost game apparatus of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present teachings.

[0012] FIGS. 4A-4B demonstrate players playing the PaddlePost game and the equipment associated with the game in accordance with the present teachings.

[0013] FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate an embodiment wherein the vertical arms are adjustable to various positions in accordance with the present teachings.

[0014] FIG. 6 illustrates an electronic scoring mechanism in accordance with the present teachings.

[0015] The skilled artisan will understand that the drawings described below are for illustrative purposes only. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the present teachings in any way.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT(S)

[0016] Embodiments of this disclosure encompass methods and devices for playing a portable PaddlePost game. For convenience in transporting and assembly, the PaddlePost game can include four pieces of lightweight % inch diameter PVC piping, and a foldable metal base that can be quickly assembled by simply fitting the components together. No tools are required for assembly. The PaddlePost game can be played either outdoors on a sandy beach, lawn, or paved surface. The PaddlePost game can also be played indoors in a gymnasium or wherever there is a hard level surface.

[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the PaddlePost game. The apparatus 100 primarily comprises a framework 105. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the framework 105 forms a goal post structure having a U-shaped cross bar assembly 110 and a vertical support structure 115 detachably connected to a base 120. The U-shaped cross bar assembly 110 forms a volley area 112 having a defined shape shown in FIG. 1. In embodiments, the defined area formed by the volley areal 12 is completely void between the vertical support structures 115. In other embodiments the U-shaped cross bar assembly 110 may have other shapes or appearances. In general, the framework 105 can be constructed of a light-weight material that can be easily assembled and disassembled, making it portable and convenient for carrying and playing in different venues.

[0018] As depicted in the example of FIGS. 2A-2B, the base 120 can be a foldable base to provide a stable platform on which to support the associated vertical and horizontal structures. The base 120 can be used outdoors in sand or soil, or indoors on any flat surface. The components of the base 120 can be made of various materials, such as metal or plastic. In this embodiment, a center mating unit 125 joins four balance legs 130 to a lower vertical support structure 115. Each balance leg 130 is connected to the center mating unit 125 and is configured to extend away from the center mating unit 125 at approximately 90-degree angles from the other balance legs 130. The balance legs and the center mating unit 125 form a+< to provide uniform directional support for the U-shaped cross bar assembly 110. In other embodiments the base can form a square, rectangle, triangle or other shapes that can provide similar stability for the framework 105.

[0019] The base 120 of the framework 105 is intended to reside on the ground or similar flat surface and support the connected vertical and horizontal structures. Accordingly, the lower vertical support structure 135 is connected to the center mating unit 125 to and extend vertically away from the ground.

[0020] In the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1, the lower vertical structure 135 in FIG. 2B and an upper vertical structure 115 in FIG. 2C join to form the vertical structure as shown. For example, the upper vertical structure 115 can be inserted into a hole provided at the top of the lower vertical structure 135 and secured by any attachment mechanism, such as screws. The upper vertical structure 115 for use with a game consistent with the present description can be configured with a variety of variations. In some embodiments, the upper vertical structure 115 can be configured having a fixed length. In one example, the upper vertical structure 115 is a PVC pipe having a diameter of approximately % inch and a length of approximately 40 inches60 inches, preferably 50 inches. In other embodiments, the upper vertical structure 115 can include a height adjustable pole, which can be beneficial for allowing persons of different ages to adjust the length of the pole for their use or detachable interchangeable poles.

[0021] Coupled to the top of the upper vertical structure 115 is a U-shaped assembly 110 as shown in FIG. 1. The U-shaped assembly 110 includes a horizontal crossbar 140 shown in FIG. 2E. In one example, the crossbar 140 is a PVC pipe having a diameter of approximately % inch and a length of approximately 42 inches. The crossbar 140 can include approximately at its midpoint a T-connector 145 configured to connect to the upper vertical structure 115. The crossbar 140 may have at each end a 90 degree elbow connector 150 for insertion of vertical arms 155, shown in FIG. 2D, so that may be easily attached or removed. The vertical arms 155 may be attached to the crossbar 140 in any known acceptable manner. Connecting the vertical arms 155 to the crossbar 140 forms the volley area 112 having a defined shape shown in FIG. 1. In embodiments, the defined area formed by the volley area 112 is completely void between the vertical support structures 115 and the crossbar 140. The vertical arms 155 may have an open end 160 and a closed end topped with cap 165. The open end 160 of each vertical arm can be inserted into the open ends of the elbow connector 150 so that the cap 160 is positioned on top. In one example, each vertical arm 155 is a PVC pipe having a diameter of approximately % inch and a length of approximately 21 inches.

[0022] FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate steps of assembling the PaddlePost apparatus 100. Initially, in FIG. 3A, unfold the base 120 by simply pulling each of the four legs 130 downward, as shown in FIG. 2B, and insert the upper vertical support structure 115 into the hole at the top of the lower vertical support structure 135 of the base 120. Then, in FIG. 3B, attach the crossbar 140 to the upper vertical support structure 115 by inserting the upper vertical support structure 115 into the T-connector 145 on the crossbar 140. Finally, in FIG. 3C, attach both vertical arms 155 to the crossbar 140 by fitting them into the elbow connectors 150 provided on the crossbar 140. After assembly, according to one embodiment, the pair of vertical aims 155 connected with the crossbar 140 should resemble the U-shaped assembly 110. After playing the PaddlePost game, the base 120 can be folded by pulling each of the four legs horizontally outward (separately), and then pushing them upward against the lower vertical support structure 135, as shown in FIG. 2A.

[0023] While embodiments of the PaddlePost apparatus 100 is mainly described herein as consisting of separate components that are assembled together by the user of the game, the PaddlePost apparatus 100 can be manufactured as a single unit, that is completely foldable and adjustable. In a single unit embodiment, the PaddlePost apparatus 100 can be unfolded for use wherein the lower vertical support structure 135 of the base 120 houses the upper vertical support structure 115 such that the upper vertical support structure 115 is adjustable in a telescopic manner and extends from the base 120. The crossbar 140 is rotatably attached by a connection mechanism, such as a joint hinge, to the upper vertical support structure 115. The crossbar 140 can be rotated horizontally relative to the upper vertical support structure 115 at the T-connector 145 and locked into the horizontal position. The joint hinge can be locked in at 90 degrees relative to the upper vertical support structure 115. Both vertical arms 155 are rotatably attached by joint hinges to the crossbar 140. The vertical arms can be rotated relative vertically to the crossbar 140 and locked in a vertical position using the joint hinges. After use when it is desired to return the PaddlePost apparatus 100 to the folded position, the steps can simply be reversed.

[0024] As illustrated in FIG. 4A, the present application relates to methods and devices for playing a game, and more particularly to a portable paddle sport game that uses a framework structure including two vertical arms 155 which form a defined space through which a ball is volleyed therebetween. As shown in FIG. 4B, the paddles and ball used can be similar to those used in other paddle sports, such as beach paddleball. Such conventional paddles are normally constructed of hard plywood, approximately 15-17 inches long, 9 inches wide, and having a ? inch thickness. The hollow ball is typically constructed of rubber and is approximately 2-4 inches in diameter. The PaddlePost game described herein adapts and extends the elements of conventional beach paddleball by providing a physical framework to broaden the physical, spatial and dynamic dimensions of the game, and the manner of play. The use of the physical framework is a central element of the game, thus necessitating a change in the manner in which conventional paddle sport games are played, and consequently differentiating it from other paddle sport games.

[0025] For instance, while playing the PaddlePost game, volleying the ball between the vertical arms 155 provides many benefits to the players, such as physical fitness, agility, and hand-eye coordination. The PaddlePost game can also enhance the player's spatial awareness, which is a complex cognitive skill. Spatial awareness is important for a person's depth perception and relates to their physical understanding of distance and the ability to interact with the environment around the person.

[0026] The game may be played in various ways but a set of rules is now set out below by way of example:

[0027] During a non-competitive play mode, for purposes of simplicity, the PaddlePost game can be enjoyed without adhering to any scoring rules except making sure each player makes every effort to return the ball within the vertical arms 155 of the framework 105. Players must serve the ball under-handed but can return it under-handed or over-handed. If, during play, the ball falls to the ground or is returned below the horizontal crossbar 140, or to the outsides of the two vertical arms 155, then the opposing player will restart play by serving the ball. Returning the ball high over the two vertical arms 155 is acceptable as long as it is judged within the two vertical arms 155. Keeping score is optional since the objective is to have fun, keep the ball in play for as long as possible, and maximize the agility and exercise opportunities for the players.

[0028] The game does not require any boundaries so that the ball can be returned from any distance or position from behind the post, as long as it passes through the two vertical arms 155. This is also meant to keep the game fluid and compensate for the player's abilities.

[0029] During a competitive play mode, players who are interested in playing competitively must still use the rules described above for non-competitive play. However, they can adapt the rules of beach paddleball with regard to keeping score. For the PaddlePost game, they must volley the ball between the two vertical arms 155, and play to a determined score, normally 7, 11 or 21 points, and the winner must win by 2 points. Also, since there are no marked boundaries, points can only be awarded to the opposing player if the ball is not returned between the two vertical arms 155, or if it falls to the ground.

[0030] Players must serve the ball under-handed but can return it under-handed or over-handed. If, during play the ball falls to the ground or is returned below the horizontal crossbar 140, or to the outsides of the two vertical arms 155, then the opposing player is awarded 1 point and the chance to continue play by serving the ball.

[0031] In an additional embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5A-5B, the PaddlePost game further comprises adjustable vertical arms 155 which can be repositioned to form various shapes to challenge the players to volley within an area having a predefined shape. In such an embodiment, the crossbar may have at each end an adjustable elbow connector 170 for insertion of vertical arms 155 so that they may be easily attached, positioned and locked at various angles. In the example of FIG. 5A, the vertical arms 155 can be positioned to form a triangular shape. The vertical arms 155 can be repositioned from the triangular shape in FIG. 5A to form a trapezoidal shape as shown in FIG. 5B or the U-shape shown in FIG. 1. Thus, the vertical arms 155 can be adjusted relative to the crossbar 140.

[0032] In a further embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the PaddlePost game further comprises an electronic scoring mechanism 190 to further challenge the players and enhance the benefits derived from volleying the ball between the vertical arms 155. The scoring mechanism 190 can enhance the accuracy of the players by awarding the players points when the ball is volleyed within the defined space of the vertical arms 155. The scoring mechanism 190 can include one or more sensors 175 included within or positioned along the exterior surface of the vertical arm 155 and a digital counter in communication with the sensors, which is used to keep track of each player's or team's scores. The sensors 175 can be used to detect when the ball passes through a detection area 185 defined by the vertical arms 155 from a particular direction, which is indicative of the ball being volleyed from a particular player or team. The sensor can be configured to detect or sense the approach or presence and direction of nearby objects. For example, the sensor may be a proximity sensor, a directional sensor, or a motion sensor.

[0033] The electronic scoring mechanism 190 can include electrical circuitry and a power source. The power source can, for example, be at least one battery (rechargeable or non-rechargeable) and/or at least one solar cell to provide power to the digital counter 180, sensors 175, electrical circuitry, and possibly other components. Furthermore, the electronic scoring mechanism 190 can include a processor and a storage medium. The processor, which can be a microprocessor or controller, controls the operation of the electronic scoring mechanism 190. The storage device stores the sensor data 175. In one embodiment, the digital counter 180 and the sensors 175 can be included in one or more of the vertical arms 155 as an integral component. In another embodiment, the digital counter 180 and the sensors 175 can be separate components in wireless or wired communication with each other.

[0034] Aspects of the present disclosure have been described in detail with reference to the illustrated embodiments; those skilled in the art will recognize, however, that many modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the precise construction and compositions disclosed herein; any and all modifications, changes, and variations apparent from the foregoing descriptions are within the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the present concepts expressly include any and all combinations and sub-combinations of the preceding elements and features.

[0035] While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features as applied to various embodiments, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the devices or algorithms illustrated can be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. As will be recognized, certain embodiments described herein can be embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features and benefits set forth herein, as some features can be used or practiced separately from others. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.