RACQUET AND PADDLE SPORTS EQUIPMENT

Abstract

The present disclosure provides for a sports paddle for use in sports such as platform tennis. The sports paddle comprises a handle, a rim, and a blade, the blade defining a plurality of holes extending through the blade. Each of the plurality of holes are preferably elliptical in shape, thereby increasing an edge length of the holes at each face of the paddle, which enables a player to impart an enhanced spin when striking a ball. The blade preferably comprises at least one core layer, a first outer layer, and a second outer layer. The core layer is preferably comprised of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA foam) and the outer layers are preferably comprised of fiber glass. The first and second outer layers further preferably comprise at least one carbon fiber layer sandwiched the fiberglass layers.

Claims

1. A sports implement for use in racquet or paddle sports, the sports implement comprising: a handle portion; and a blade portion connected to the handle portion, the blade portion defining a plurality of interior walls that define a plurality of complementary holes therethrough and comprising: at least one core layer; a first outer layer; and a second outer layer; a rim portion surrounding the blade portion; wherein the first outer layer and the second outer layer each comprise at least one carbon fiber layer fixed between at least one outer fiberglass layer, and at least one inner fiberglass layer; and wherein the holes extend through the first outer layer, core layer, and second outer layer.

2. The sports implement of claim 1, wherein the plurality of interior walls are elliptical and the plurality of holes are elliptical.

3. The sports implement of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of interior elliptical walls has an elliptical edge circumscribing each member of the plurality of elliptical holes at outermost surfaces of the blade portion.

4. The sports implement of claim 3, wherein each elliptical edge has a circumference greater than approximately 29.84 mm.

5. The sports implement of claim 4, wherein each member of the plurality of elliptical holes define a minor axis of approximately 9.5 mm and a major axis of approximately 23.05, and wherein the elliptical edge circumference is approximately 53.37 mm.

6. The sports implement of claim 1, wherein the at least one core layer is formed of a member of the group consisting of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA foam), polyurethane, polyethylene, polyvinyl, rubber, and any combination thereof.

7. The sports implement of claim 6, wherein the at least one core layer is formed of EVA foam.

8. The sports implement of claim 1, wherein the at least one inner fiberglass layer and the at least one outer fiberglass layer are both comprised of a fiberglass sheet with a density of 200 g/m.sup.2.

9. The sports implement of claim 1, wherein the carbon fiber layer comprises a first carbon fiber sheet and a second carbon fiber sheet, where strands of carbon fiber comprising the first carbon fiber sheet are oriented perpendicularly to strands of carbon fiber comprising the second carbon fiber sheet.

10. The sports implement of claim 9, wherein the first carbon fiber sheet and the second carbon fiber sheet both have a density of 180 g/m.sup.2, a tensile strength of 3000 MPa, a breaking elongation of approximately 1.5%, and a Young's modulus of 230 GPa.

11. A sports implement for use in racquet or paddle sports, the sports implement comprising: a handle portion; and a blade portion connected to the handle portion, the blade portion defining a plurality of elliptical interior walls that define a plurality of complementary elliptical holes therethrough and comprising: at least one core layer; a first outer layer; and a second outer layer; a rim portion surrounding the blade portion; wherein each of the plurality of interior elliptical walls has an elliptical edge circumscribing each member of the plurality of elliptical holes at outermost surfaces of the blade portion; wherein the holes extend through the first outer layer, core layer, and second outer layer; and wherein each elliptical edge has a circumference greater than approximately 29.84 mm.

12. The sports implement of claim 11, wherein the elliptical edge has a circumference between 33.03 mm and 62.44 mm.

13. The sports implement of claim 12, wherein the plurality of elliptical holes define a minor axis of approximately 9.5 mm and a major axis of approximately 23.05 mm, and wherein the elliptical edge circumference is approximately 53.37 mm.

14. The sports implement of claim 11, wherein a major axis of each of the plurality of elliptical holes is parallel to a vertical axis of the blade portion.

15. The sports implement of claim 14, wherein the at least one core layer is formed of a member of the group consisting of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA foam), polyurethane, polyethylene, polyvinyl, rubber, and any combination thereof.

16. The sports implement of claim 15, wherein the at least one core layer is formed of EVA foam.

17. The sports implement of claim 14, wherein the first and second outer layers are formed of a member of the group consisting of fiberglass sheets, carbon fiber, thermoplastic polyurethane (PTU) and any combination thereof.

18. The sports implement of claim 17, wherein the first outer layer and second outer layer both comprise at least one carbon fiber layer fixed between at least one outer fiberglass layer, and at least one inner fiberglass layer.

19. A sports implement comprising: a handle portion; and a blade portion connected to the handle portion, the blade portion comprising: an at least one core layer; a first outer layer; and a second outer layer; a rim portion surrounding the blade portion; and wherein the first outer layer and second outer layer both comprise at least one carbon fiber layer fixed between at least one outer fiberglass layer, and at least one inner fiberglass layer; wherein the blade portion defines a plurality of interior elliptical walls defining a plurality of elliptical holes that transect the blade portion; wherein each of the plurality of internal elliptical walls have an elliptical edge circumscribing each member of the plurality of elliptical holes at outermost surfaces of the blade portion; and wherein each elliptical edge has a circumference greater than 29.84 mm.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0047] The invention will be more fully understood by referring to the following Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments in conjunction with the Drawings, of which:

[0048] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sports paddle with a plurality of elliptical holes, provided in accordance with an embodiment of the current disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustrating a vertical axis and a horizontal axis of one of a plurality of elliptical holes of FIG. 1.

[0050] FIG. 3 is a cross section view of a portion of the blade of the sports paddle shown in FIG. 1, as provided in accordance with an embodiment of the current disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the sports paddle of FIG. 1, illustrating a blade border between the plurality of elliptical holes and a rim of the blade.

[0052] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a sports paddle provided in accordance with an embodiment of the current disclosure, wherein a plurality of elliptical holes are aligned vertically.

[0053] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a sports paddle with circular holes and circular cups, provided in accordance with an embodiment of the current disclosure.

[0054] FIG. 7 is a close-up perspective view of the circular holes and circular cups of the sports paddle of FIG. 6.

[0055] FIG. 8 is a cross section view of a portion of the blade of the sports paddle shown in FIG. 6, as provided in accordance with an embodiment of the current disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 9a is a schematic cross section view of a member of a plurality of holes transecting a blade of a sports paddle, where the plurality of holes comprise square shaped cups, provided in accordance with an embodiment of the current disclosure.

[0057] FIG. 9b is a schematic cross section view of a member of a plurality of holes transecting a blade of a sports paddle, where the plurality of holes comprise stadium shaped cups, provided in accordance with an embodiment of the current disclosure.

[0058] FIG. 9c is a schematic cross section view of a member of a plurality of holes transecting a blade of a sports paddle, where the plurality of holes comprise truncated cone shaped cups, provided in accordance with an embodiment of the current disclosure.

[0059] FIG. 9d is a schematic cross section view of a member of a plurality of holes transecting a blade of a sports paddle, where the plurality of holes comprise bowl shaped cups, provided in accordance with an embodiment of the current disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 10 is a cross section view of the sports paddle of FIG. 6, provided in accordance with an embodiment of the current disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a sports paddle with a plurality of elliptical holes and a plurality of elliptical cups, provided in accordance with an embodiment of the current disclosure.

[0062] FIG. 12 is a close-up perspective view of the plurality of elliptical holes and plurality of elliptical cups of the sports paddle of FIG. 11, provided in accordance with an embodiment of the current disclosure.

[0063] FIG. 13 is a schematic of a member of the plurality of elliptical holes and elliptical cups of the sports paddle of FIG. 11, provided in accordance with an embodiment of the current disclosure.

[0064] FIG. 14 is a cross-section schematic of a portion of a sports paddle blade, illustrating at least one carbon fiber layer, as provided in accordance with embodiments of the current disclosure.

[0065] FIG. 15 is a schematic of the at least one carbon fiber layer of FIG. 14, illustrating a first carbon fiber sheet and a second carbon fiber sheet.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

[0066] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to sporting equipment. In particular, embodiments of the present invention relate to sports paddles for use in racquet or paddle sports such as platform tennis, paddle tennis, or p?del tennis. The present disclosure describes, in detail, specific embodiments with the understanding that the present invention may be susceptible to embodiments in different forms, and that the present disclosure is considered an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to that described herein.

[0067] As used herein, including in the claims, the terms racket, racquet, and paddle may be used interchangeably to reference a piece of sporting equipment with a flat head with which a user, or player, may strike a ball. In accordance with the prior art, racquets and paddles are generally defined by a handle portion and a blade portion.

[0068] Additionally, as used herein, including in the claims, the term ellipse, or elliptical is defined as a regular oval shape where the sum of a distance from two focal points within the shape are constant, such that two sides of the ellipse taper uniformly towards two terminal ends. This is distinct from an oval, which is a curved shape, but without uniformly tapered ends. An ellipse is also distinct from a stadium shape, or a discorectangle, which is defined as a geometric figure consisting of a rectangle capped at two terminal ends by semicircles; where a stadium or discorectangle has straight edges, an ellipse does not. Similarly, an ellipse is distinct from pill shapes, slots, other ovoid shapes with flat or elongated edges, or other ovoid shapes that do not taper uniformly towards two terminal ends.

[0069] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sports paddle 10 provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the current disclosure. The sports paddle 10 preferably comprises a handle portion 12 that is continuous with a blade portion 14, and which is configured for impacting a ball. The blade portion 14 is generally planar, has a thickness 17 (see FIG. 3), and has a rounded or oblong shape with a vertical axis VA and a horizontal axis HA. Other blade 14 shapes are contemplated, including blades 14 that have circular, square, rectangular, teardrop, or other relatively planar and polygonal shapes. The vertical axis VA extends from the handle portion 12 to an apex 15 of the blade portion 14, where the apex 15 is the furthest point of the blade portion 14 from the handle portion 12. In some embodiments, the vertical axis VA is longer than the horizontal axis HA. A rim 13 may preferably frame the blade 14. In preferred embodiments, the blade portion 14 presents a first face 23 on one side of the paddle 10, and a second face 70 (see FIG. 5) complementary to the first face 23, on the other side of the paddle 10. The blade portion 14 also defines a plurality of elliptical holes 16 extending transversely through the blade 14 of the paddle from the first face 23 to the second face 70. A paddle will also typically comprise a grit, such as a granular silica, embedded or adhered to the first face 23 and the second face 70.

[0070] As illustrated in FIG. 2, dimensions of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 include a minor axis 18-19 and a major axis 20-21. The minor axis 18-19 is defined as a shortest distance between one side of the ellipse to the other, where the distance cuts across the ellipse widthwise. The major axis 20-21 is defined as a longest distance between one side of the ellipse to the other, where the measurement cuts across the ellipse lengthwise. It is contemplated that the paddle 10 may comprise holes 16 of uniform dimensions (i.e., each hole 16 has the same major axis 20-21 and minor axis 18-19 dimensions as the other holes 16), of alternating different dimensions, or of various dimensions forming a pattern of different holes 16. In other words, the plurality of holes 16 may all be uniform in size and shape, or they may differ from one another in size and shape. Each member of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 has an elliptical edge 27 defined by a portion of the blade 14 that encircles the respective member of the plurality of holes 16 at outermost surfaces (i.e., the first face 23 and second face 70) of the blade 14. When the ball strikes the paddle and hits the elliptical edge 27 of any of the plurality of holes 16, the elliptical edge 27 can generate a spin on the ball. The larger the elliptical edge 27, the more spin the player can generate on the ball.

[0071] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the blade portion 14 of the sports paddle 10 is preferably formed of at least one core layer 22, sandwiched between a first outer layer 24, and a second outer layer 26, which together define the thickness 17 of the blade 14. The blade 14 has a plurality of internal walls 25, which may be cylindrical or elliptical, that are defined by the first outer layer 24, the at least one core layer 22, and the second outer layer 26. These internal walls 25 in turn define the plurality of elliptical holes 16. Thus, the plurality of elliptical holes 16, as defined by the plurality of internal walls 25, transect the blade portion 14 and pass through the first outer layer 24, the at least one core layer 22, and the second outer layer 26. In some preferred embodiments, the elliptical holes 16 have a uniform profile throughout.

[0072] In addition to reducing wind resistance when swinging the paddle 10, the plurality of elliptical holes 16 illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 augment the ability of the player to produce a spin on the ball when striking it with the paddle 10. When the player strikes the ball with the paddle 10, the ball can be cupped by any one of the plurality of elliptical holes 16, and the elliptical edge 27 of the elliptical hole 16 can then direct the ball or impart a spin when the ball bounces off the blade 14. In other words, the plurality of holes 16 can catch and grab the ball to cause it to spin. The motions used by players to spin the ball are like the motions, for example, of a topspin shot or slice in tennis. In other words, the player is generally brushing or cutting the blade 14 across the ball such that the respective directions of motion of the blade 14 and ball form a narrow acute angle, as compared to a flatter shot wherein the respective directions of the blade 14 and ball might form a right angle. Generally, given two blade/ball strikes of equal force, the greater the elliptical edge 27 of one or more of the plurality of holes 16 that contacts the ball, the greater the spin that a player will be able to impart on the ball.

[0073] The elliptical shape of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 is one way to increase the elliptical edge 27 and thus optimize the ability to impart spin. Because the major axis 20-21 is larger than the minor axis 18-19, the elliptical edge 27 of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 can be optimally increased while maintaining a smaller minor axis 18-19 of the holes 16. Moreover, spin is increased to a greater extent when the elliptical edge 27 contacts the ball in a direction counter to the direction of the ball's flight towards the paddle 10. For example, when a player strikes the ball with the sports paddle 10, the player typically holds the sports paddle 10 horizontally so that the vertical axis VA is relatively parallel to the ground. In the preferred embodiments illustrated in FIG. 1, the plurality of elliptical holes 16 are preferably oriented such that the major axis 20-21 of each of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 is aligned with, or parallel with, the vertical axis VA. Thus, when the player strikes the ball with the sports paddle 10, the major axis 20-21 of each of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 are relatively perpendicular to the direction of the paddle 10 and intended direction of the ball, thus presenting a larger elliptical edge 27 running counter to the direction of the ball's flight, increasing the spin carried by the ball when it leaves the paddle 10. Stated differently, the ball will travel in the direction of the minor axis 18-19 when the ball is hit by the paddle, such that the elliptical edge 27 along the major axis 20-21 cuts across the ball and imparts spin. However, in other embodiments, the orientation of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 may be different, and the elliptical holes 16 may be parallel with the horizontal axis HA or may be on an oblique line.

[0074] To increase the size, or circumference, of the elliptical edge 27, the major axis is preferably greater than 9.5 mm in length. Thus, a circumference for each member of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 is preferably greater than 29.84 mm. In preferred embodiments, the minor axis 18-19 of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 is between 5.5 mm and 12.5 mm and the major axis 20-21 is between 14.5 mm and 26.05 mm. As a result, the elliptical edges 27 of each of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 preferably have a circumference between 33.03 mm and 62.44 mm. In some preferred embodiments, the minor axis 18-19 is 5.5 mm, and the major axis 20-21 is 16.5 mm, with a circumference of 36.75 mm. Alternatively, in other preferred embodiments, the minor axis 18-19 is 9.5 mm and the major axis 20-21 is 23.05 mm. Thus, in preferred embodiment, the elliptical edge 27 has a circumference of 53.37 mm. However, other dimensions for the plurality of elliptical holes 16 are contemplated by this disclosure.

[0075] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the plurality of elliptical holes 16 are preferably positioned within a blade boundary 28 such that the plurality of elliptical holes 16 are situated at least a boundary distance 29 from the rim 13 of the paddle 10. The boundary distance 29 is preferably greater than 9 mm, as placing members of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 closer than 9 mm to the rim 13 may weaken a structural integrity of the blade 14 and/or of the rim 13. Optimally, the boundary distance 29 is between 20 mm and 26 mm. In some preferred embodiments, the boundary distance 29 is 20 mm. In other preferred embodiments, the boundary distance 29 is 26 mm. Thus, in some preferred embodiments, each of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 are positioned such that no part of any member of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 is within 20 mm of the rim 13. In other preferred embodiments, each of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 are positioned such that no part of any member of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 is within 26 mm of the rim 13.

[0076] FIG. 4 also illustrates a vertical spacing 80 and a horizontal spacing 82 between the members of the plurality of holes 16. Both the vertical spacing 80 and horizontal spacing 82 are preferably between 8 mm and 80 mm. Spacing between the plurality of holes 16 that is less than 8 mm may weaken the structural integrity of the blade 14. In preferred embodiments, both the vertical spacing 80 and horizontal spacing 82 are 11 mm. In other preferred embodiments, both the vertical and horizontal spacings 80, 82 are 12 mm. However, other vertical spacings 80 and horizontal spacings 82 are contemplated by this disclosure, including all increments and ranges between 8-80 mm. It is also contemplated that in some embodiments the vertical spacing 80 between the plurality of elliptical holes 16 are variable, that the horizontal spacings 82 are variable, and/or that the vertical spacings 80 have different values than the horizontal spacings 82.

[0077] Moreover, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 4, in some embodiments the plurality of elliptical holes 16 are oriented in horizontal rows. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 5, in some embodiments, the plurality of elliptical holes 16 are oriented into vertical columns. More specifically, FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment wherein the plurality of elliptical holes are oriented in vertical columns and are horizontally staggered. In other embodiments, the plurality of elliptical holes 16 are oriented in a whorled pattern or are oriented in concentric circles. In still other embodiments, the plurality of elliptical holes 16 are randomly staggered. In other embodiments, the holes 16 are provided at acute and obtuse angles relative to each other and/or the long axis of the blade 14. Other positional orientations of the plurality of holes 16 are contemplated by this disclosure.

[0078] While preferred embodiments of the sports paddle 10 preferably comprise elliptical shaped holes 16, other elongated shapes are also contemplated by this disclosure. For instance, oval shaped holes are contemplated, which as noted supra, are curved in shape, but do not have the uniformly tapered ends that define an ellipse. Moreover, it is contemplated that the sports paddle 10 may comprise a plurality of holes that are stadium shaped, with straight, parallel edges that taper at the ends into semicircles. Other contemplated embodiments have rectangular holes, diamond shaped holes, or holes that form other elongated shapes wherein a major axis of the hole is larger than a minor axis of the hole.

[0079] Moreover, it is further contemplated that in some embodiments the plurality of holes are circular. In such embodiments, the edge length is still preferably greater than 29.84 mm. Some embodiments may have both circular and elongated holes. In yet other embodiments, the plurality of holes have beveled edges, resulting in cup shapes in outer layers of the blade.

[0080] For instance, and in accordance with other preferred embodiments of the current disclosure, FIG. 6 illustrates a paddle 30 with handle 32, a blade 34, an apex 35 of the blade 34, a thickness 39 (see FIG. 8), and a plurality of holes 36 defined by the blade 34. A rim 33 may preferably frame the blade 34. In preferred embodiments, the blade portion 34 presents a first face 43 on a first side of the paddle 30, and a second face 71 on a second side of the paddle 30. The plurality of holes 36 preferably extend transversely through the blade 34 of the paddle 30 from the first face 43 to the second face 71. As better shown in FIGS. 7, 8, and 9a-d, the plurality of holes 36 preferably broaden into a plurality of cups 38 at a first terminal end 52 and at a second terminal end 54 of each member of the plurality of holes 36 (terminal ends 52 and 54 are not illustrated in FIG. 6 but are illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9a-d). In preferred embodiments, the plurality of cups 38 comprise the ends of every member of the plurality of holes 36. However, in other embodiments, the plurality of cups 38 comprise the ends of some, but not all, of the plurality of holes 36 such that the remaining holes 36 have a uniform circumference throughout the thickness 39 of the paddle 30. The paddle 30 may also comprise a grit, such as a granular silica, embedded or adhered to the first face 43 and the second face 71.

[0081] FIG. 7 is a close-up of a section of the paddle 30, and more clearly illustrates the plurality of cups 38. Each member of the plurality of cups 38 has an edge surface area 47 defined by a portion of the blade 34 that forms the beveled edges of the cup 38.

[0082] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the blade portion 34 of the sports paddle 30 is preferably formed of an at least one core layer 42, sandwiched between a first outer layer 44, and a second outer layer 46. The first face 43 is an external portion of the first outer layer 44. Likewise, the second face 71 is an external portion of the second outer layer 46. The blade 34 has a plurality of internal walls that are defined by the first outer layer 44, the at least one core layer 42, and the second outer layer 46. These internal walls in turn define the plurality of holes 36 and the plurality of cups 38, where the plurality of cups 38 are defined by peripheral portions of the internal walls. In other words, the plurality of holes 36 transect the blade portion 34 and pass through the first outer layer 44, the at least one core layer 42, and the second outer layer 46, and broaden at the terminal ends 52, 54 into the plurality of cups 38. The first and second terminal ends 52, 54 are defined by the blade portion 34 such that the first terminal end 52 is the portion of the hole 36 that extends through the first outer layer 44 and the second terminal end 54 is the portion of the hole 36 that extends through the second outer layer 46. Where each member of the plurality of cups 38 passes through the first face 43, the first outer layer 44 defines a first terminal circumference 48a. Conversely, where each member of the plurality of cups 38 passes through the second face 71, the second outer layer 46 defines a second terminal circumference 48b. This is in contrast to a core circumference 50 of each of the plurality of holes 36 that is defined by the at least one core layer 42. The edge surface area 47 of each member of the plurality of holes 36 is defined by material of the first outer layer 44 or material of the second outer layer 46 that defines the peripheral portions of the internal walls circumscribing the plurality of cups 38. In other words, the edge surface area 47 is the material of the blade 34 that makes up the cups 38 and is therefore determinably correlated with the dimensions of the first and second terminal circumferences 48a, 48b. To maximize the edge surface area 47 in accordance with the present disclosure, the first and second terminal circumferences 48a, 48b are preferably greater than 29.84 mm.

[0083] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of cups 38 may define a beveled edge such that the plurality of cups 38 have multiple circumferences that continuously get larger as the member of the plurality of holes extends from the core layer 42 to the first face 43, or from the core layer 42 to the second face 71. In these embodiments, the first and second terminal circumferences 48a, 48b, are just one of multiple circumferences for each of the plurality of cups 38. However, in other embodiments, the plurality of cups 38 may extend uniformly through the first outer layer 42 and the second outer layer 44, creating edges that are perpendicular to the first face 43 and second face 71 of the paddle 30.

[0084] In preferred embodiments, a member of the plurality of cups 38 comprise the ends of each member of the plurality of holes 36 such that the plurality of cups 38 mirror each other at the first and second terminal ends 52, 54. In other words, the members of the plurality of cups 38 on one end of a hole 36 match the cups 38 on the other end of the hole 36. In these embodiments, the first terminal circumference 48a is equal to the second terminal circumference 48b. However, it is contemplated that in some embodiments a member of the plurality of cups 38 at one end of the hole 36 is different from the corresponding cup 38 on the other side of the paddle 30.

[0085] As noted above, and as shown in FIGS. 9a, 9b, 9c and 9d, the plurality of cups 38 may have a variable or a uniform circumference, such that the plurality of cups 38 define a depth shape as viewed from a cross section of the plurality of holes 36. As illustrated in FIG. 9a, the plurality of cups 38 may have a uniform circumference extending downwards into the blade 34, such that the plurality of cups 38 have straight edges and the plurality of holes 36 form a capital letter I shape when viewed in cross section. In such instances, the plurality of cups 38 have a square depth shape 60. However, in other embodiments the plurality of cups 38 may broaden gradually before reaching an optimum circumference, creating a half stadium depth shape 62 having a combination of straight edges and rounded beveled edges, as shown in FIG. 9b. Still in further embodiments, the plurality of cups 38 may broaden gradually like a truncated cone 64 having straight beveled edges, as shown in FIG. 9c. In a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9d, the plurality of cups 38 may extend in a bowl depth shape 66 having curved beveled edges. As shown in FIGS. 9b-d, the direction of the beveled edges preferably tapers inwards from the first face 43 and/or second face 71, towards the core layer 42. Other depth shape geometries are contemplated by this disclosure.

[0086] Each member of the plurality of cups 38 may define multiple circumferences depending on the cup's 38 depth shape. However, regardless of the depth shape, the first and second terminal circumferences 48a, 48b are defined by the first and second outer layers 44, 46 at the point where each of the plurality of holes 36 exit the blade 34 of the paddle, i.e., the first face 43 and second face 71. To optimize the edge surface area 47 of each of the plurality of holes 36, the first and second terminal circumferences 48a, 48b of each hole are larger than the core circumference 50 such that the plurality of holes 36 are larger in diameter as they pass through the first and second outer layers 44, 46 than they are in the at least one core layer 42. Thus, the plurality of cups 38 increase the edge surface area 47 of each of the plurality of holes 36, thereby increasing the ability to impart ball spin.

[0087] In some embodiments, the core circumference 50 may define a ridge at the terminal ends 52, 54 of the plurality of holes 36. In other embodiments, a ridge may spiral along the plurality of cups 38. In further embodiments, an inside surface of the plurality of cups 38 may be textured through a knurling process or may be coated in a grit material.

[0088] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 6-10, the plurality of holes 36 are circular with circular cups 38. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the plurality of holes 36 have a core diameter 56 as they pass through the at least one core layer 42, and a cup diameter 58 associated with the first and second terminal circumferences 48a, 48b. In embodiments with circular shaped cups 38, the cup diameter 58 is greater than 9.5 mm in order for the first and second terminal circumferences 48a, 48b to be greater than 29.84 mm. The larger cups 38 facilitate a larger edge surface area 47 while allowing the plurality of holes 36 to have a smaller core circumference 50 when passing through the at least one core layer 42.

[0089] In some embodiments, the core diameter 56 is between 7.0 mm and 14 mm and the cup diameter 58 is between 10 mm and 17 mm. This range of cup diameters 58, in combination with a cup 38 depth between 0.5 mm and 2 mm, facilitates an edge surface area 47 between 13.35 mm.sup.2 and 97.39 mm.sup.2. In more preferable embodiments, the core diameter 56 is between 8 mm and 11 mm and the cup diameter 58 is between 11 mm and 14 mm. This range of cup diameters 58, in combination with a cup 38 depth between 0.5 mm and 2 mm, facilitates an edge surface area 47 between 14.92 mm.sup.2 and 78.54 mm.sup.2. In a preferred embodiment the core diameter 56 is 9.0 mm and the cup diameter 58 is 11.9 mm. Thus, in preferred embodiments, the edge surface area 47 is between 15.66 mm.sup.2 and 65.65 mm.sup.2. In another preferred embodiment, the cup diameter 58 is 12 mm, resulting in an edge surface area 47 between 16.49 mm.sup.2 and 65.96 mm.sup.2. However, other dimensions and both larger and smaller edge surface areas 47 are also contemplated by this disclosure.

[0090] As noted above, in some embodiments the first and second terminal circumferences 48a, 48b, and core circumference 50, are all circular in shape. However, in other embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, the plurality of holes 36 are elliptical with elliptical cups 38 at the terminal ends 52, 54. As shown in FIG. 13, the plurality of elliptical holes 36 have a hole minor axis 72-73 and a hole major axis 74-75, and the plurality of elliptical cups 38 have a cup minor axis 76-77 and a cup major axis 78-79. In some embodiments, the hole minor axis 72-73 is between 3.5 mm and 10.5 mm, and the hole major axis 74-75 is at least 9.5 mm, with an optimal length between 14.5 mm and 21.5 mm. The cup minor axis 76-77 is preferably between 6.5 mm and 13.5 mm, and the cup major axis 78-79 is between 17.5 mm and 24.5 mm. Thus, with a cup 38 depth between 0.5 mm and 2 mm, the edge surface area 47 of the elliptical cups 38 is contemplated to be between 15.31 mm.sup.2 and 112.71 mm.sup.2. In preferred embodiments, the hole minor axis 72-73 is 5.5 mm, the hole major axis 74-75 is 16.5 mm, the cup minor axis 76-77 is 8.5 mm, and the cup major axis 78-79 is 19.5 mm. Thus, for variable cup 38 depths, the edge surface area 47 is optimally between 20.61 mm.sup.2 and 82.45 mm.sup.2. However, larger or smaller edge surface areas 47 are contemplated by this disclosure, pursuant to variable cup and hole dimensions.

[0091] In other embodiments, the plurality of holes 36 are circular as they pass through the at least one core layer 42 but the plurality of cups 38 are elliptical. Moreover, other shapes are also contemplated for the plurality of holes 36 and/or the plurality of cups 38.

[0092] In preferred embodiments, and as described supra, the plurality of cups 38 are defined by the first and second outer layers 44, 46. In some embodiments, the plurality of cups 38 extend through an entire depth of the first and second outer layers 44, 46. In other embodiments, the plurality of cups 38 extend only partially into the first and second outer layers 44, 46. In still other embodiments, the plurality of cups 38 extend through the first and second outer layers 44, 46, and into the at least one core layer 42. A depth of the plurality of cups 38 is preferably between 0.5 mm to 2 mm. More preferably, the depth of the plurality of cups 38 is between 0.5 mm and 1.8 mm deep. In an optimal embodiment, the depth of the plurality of cups 38 is 0.7 mm deep. However, other cup depths are contemplated by this disclosure.

[0093] It is also contemplated by this disclosure that certain embodiments may include a sports paddle with a handle, blade, and plurality of holes, wherein the plurality of holes are circular and without cups. Traditional platform tennis paddles have historically had circular holes that were mandated to have a diameter less than 9.5 mm. However, recent rule changes have removed this limitation. It is thus anticipated that an improved paddle may comprise a blade with a plurality of circular holes with a diameter that is greater than 9.5 mm, to increase a player's ability to impart spin on a ball. Thus, embodiments of the current disclosure are contemplated wherein the diameter of each of the plurality of circular through holes is between 9.5 mm and 16 mm. In other preferred embodiments, the diameter is between 10 mm and 14 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the diameter is 11 mm. In yet another preferred embodiment, the diameter is 12 mm. The paddle in accordance with these embodiments may also comprise a grit, such as a granular silica, embedded or adhered to the first face and the second face 70.

[0094] In preferred embodiments, the sports paddle 10, 30 is eighteen (18) inches in length from a base of the handle portion 12, 32 to the apex 15, 35 of the blade 14, 34. A width of the sports paddle 10, 30 is preferably 10.5 inches at a widest part of the blade 14, 34, and the sports paddle 10, 30 is approximately 1.5 inches at its thickest point. However, other dimensions of the sports paddle 10, 30 are also contemplated by the current disclosure. Moreover, while in preferred embodiments the blade portions 14, 34 of paddles 10, 20 are generally planar and have a rounded or oblong shape, other blade 14, 34 shapes are contemplated, including circular, square, rectangular, triangular, or other relatively planar shapes.

[0095] Traditional platform tennis paddles have eighty-seven (87) holes through the blade, in accordance with the prior art. However, the present disclosure contemplates a reduced number of holes 16, 36 due to an increased circumference and size of the holes 16, 36 over those in the prior art. In other words, because elliptical holes 16 take up more space than the circular holes (where a diameter of the circular holes is equal to the minor axis 18-19 of the elliptical holes 16), paddles 10 with elliptical holes 16 will have fewer holes 16 than paddles of the same size that have circular holes. Thus, in some embodiments, the paddle 10 has between 32 and 75 elliptical holes 16. In some embodiments the paddle 10 has between 40 and 68 elliptical holes 16. In preferred embodiments where the minor axis 18-19 of the plurality of elliptical holes 16 is 5.5 mm, the paddle 10 may comprise 68 elliptical holes 16. Conversely, in preferred embodiments where the minor axis 18-19 is 9.5 mm, the paddle 10 may comprise 40 or 41 elliptical holes 16. However, other numbers of holes 16 are contemplated by this disclosure, and it is contemplated that some embodiments may have fewer or more elliptical holes 16 than enumerated here.

[0096] Similarly, in embodiments with cupped holes 36, the paddle 30 may preferably have 67-107 cupped holes 36. In other preferred embodiments, the paddle 30 has 77-97 cupped holes 36. In another optimal embodiment, the paddle 30 has 87 cupped holes 36. However, it is contemplated that some embodiments may have more or fewer holes 36 than enumerated here.

[0097] The at least one core layer 22, 42 is preferably formed of a lightweight, sturdy, durable, elastomeric material such as a closed cell foam material. In preferred embodiments, the at least one core layer 22, 42 is comprised of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA foam). However, other materials such as polyurethane, polyethylene, polyvinyl products, rubber, and other elastomeric foams, as well as combinations thereof, are contemplated by this disclosure.

[0098] The first outer layer 24, 44, and second outer layer 26, 46, are preferably formed of a strong and durable material. In a preferred embodiment, the first outer layer 24, 44 and second outer layer 26, 46 are each composed of at least one sheet of fiberglass which coat a top and bottom planar surface of the at least one core layer 22, 42. The first and second outer layers 24, 44 and 26, 46 may each be formed of a single sheet of fiberglass, or they may be formed of multiple sheets of fiberglass laminated together. In still other embodiments, the first outer layer 24, 44 and the second outer layer 26, 46 are comprised of carbon fiber or a thermoplastic polyurethane (PTU) polymer. In still other embodiments, the first outer layer 24, 44 and second outer layer 26, 46 are comprised of both carbon fiber and fiberglass layers.

[0099] In a preferred embodiment, exhibited in FIG. 14, the at least one core layer 22, 42 is comprised of EVA foam, and the first outer layer 24, 44 and second outer layer 26, 46 are comprised of at least one carbon fiber layer 102 sandwiched between an at least one outer fiberglass layer 100 and an at least one inner fiberglass layer 104. In preferred embodiments, the at least one outer fiberglass layer 100 and at least one inner fiberglass layer 104 both comprise a single layer, or sheet, of fiberglass with a density of 200 g/m.sup.2. However, it is contemplated that in some embodiments the outer fiberglass layers 100 and 104 may comprise more than one layer of fiberglass and/or that the fiberglass comprising the fiberglass layers 100, 104 has a density greater or less than 200 g/m.sup.2.

[0100] In preferred embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 15, the carbon fiber layer 102 comprises a first carbon fiber sheet 102a, and a second carbon fiber sheet 102b. In some embodiments, strands of carbon fiber comprising the first carbon fiber sheet 102a are preferably perpendicular to strands of carbon fiber comprising the second carbon fiber sheet 102b. In preferred embodiments, each sheet 102a, 102b of carbon fiber has a carbon fiber density of 180 g/m.sup.2, a tensile strength of 3000 MPa, a breaking elongation of approximately 1.5%, and a Young's modulus of 230 GPa. However, it is contemplated that other embodiments may comprise carbon fiber layers 102 with different densities, tensile strengths, breakout elongations, and moduli. For instance, in some embodiments, the carbon fiber density is 175 g/m.sup.2. It is also contemplated that in some embodiments the carbon fiber layer 102 may comprise a single sheet of carbon fiber and that other embodiments may comprise more than two sheets of carbon fiber. Moreover, it is contemplated that in embodiments with more than one sheet of carbon fiber, the sheets may be positioned such that carbon fiber strands comprising the carbon fiber sheets are parallel or in oblique orientation.

[0101] In some embodiments, paddle blades 14, 34 are manufactured using a baking process. In such embodiment, the fiberglass layers 100, 104 are preferably adhered to the carbon fiber layer 102 through heat adhesion during baking of the paddle blade 14, 34. Similarly, the inner fiberglass layer 104 is preferably affixed to the at least one core layer 22/42 through heat adhesion. In other words, component layers of the blade may be melted together. However, it is also contemplated that components of the first outer layer 24, 44 and second outer layer 26, 46 are adhered to each other and/or to the at least one core layer 22/42 through other methods known in the art, such as, but not limited to, use of chemical adhesives or lamination processes. For instance, it is contemplated that one of ordinary skill in the art may utilize adhesives to hold the component layers of the blade together during the baking process, that the component layers of the blade are held together through a combination of adhesives and melting, or that the component layers of the blade are held together solely through the use of adhesives.

[0102] In preferred embodiments, the at least one outer fiberglass layer 100 and the at least one inner fiberglass layer 104 both have a thickness of 0.2 mm. In preferred embodiments the carbon fiber layer 102 has a thickness of 0.18 mm. However, other thicknesses of the fiberglass layers 100, 104 and carbon fiber layer 102 are contemplated by this disclosure.

[0103] Inclusion of the carbon fiber layer 102 within the blade 14, 34 of the paddle 10, 30, provides additional stiffness and rigidity to the blade 14, 34 while keeping the weight of the paddle 10, 30 low. This increased stiffness and rigidity facilitates a solid feel when the player strikes the ball with the paddle 10, 30, which in turn grants the player more control over the ball when striking it. Moreover, the rigidity of the carbon fiber layer 102 minimizes the amount by which the outer layer 24, 26, 44, 46 of the blade 14, 34 is compressed when striking the ball. For instance, in paddles 10 with elliptical holes 16, when the ball strikes one of the plurality of holes 16, the edges 27 of the hole 16 remain rigid while the more malleable ball depresses into the hole 16, increasing the amount by which the hole 16 can catch or grab the ball, and thereby increasing the ability of the hole 16 to impart a spin on the ball.

[0104] While the invention is described through the above-described exemplary embodiments, modifications to, and variations of, the illustrated embodiments may be made without departing from the inventive concepts disclosed herein. For example, although specific parameter values, such as dimensions, materials, additives and coatings, may be recited in relation to disclosed embodiments, within the scope of the invention, the values of all parameters may vary over wide ranges to suit different applications.

[0105] As used herein, including in the claims, the term and/or, used in connection with a list of items, means one or more of the items in the list, i.e., at least one of the items in the list, but not necessarily all the items in the list. As used herein, including in the claims, the term or, used in connection with a list of items, means one or more of the items in the list, i.e., at least one of the items in the list, but not necessarily all the items in the list. Or does not mean exclusive or.

[0106] Although aspects of embodiments may be described with reference to flowcharts and/or block diagrams, functions, operations, decisions, etc. of all or a portion of each block, or a combination of blocks, may be combined, separated into separate operations or performed in other orders.

[0107] Disclosed aspects, or portions thereof, may be combined in ways not listed above and/or not explicitly claimed. In addition, embodiments disclosed herein may be suitably practiced, absent any element that is not specifically disclosed herein. Accordingly, the invention should not be viewed as being limited to the disclosed embodiments.