Foldable Indoor Ceiling Mounted Mini Basketball Hoop Assembly
20250345682 ยท 2025-11-13
Inventors
Cpc classification
A63B2210/50
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A63B2209/10
HUMAN NECESSITIES
International classification
Abstract
Disclosed herein is a Foldable Indoor Ceiling Mounted Basketball Hoop Assembly. In practice a basketball apparatus comprises a backboard structure and a pair of ceiling mounted brackets, where the ceiling mounted brackets are attached to the back of the backboard structure. Additionally, the ceiling mounted brackets are configured to rotate the backboard structure from a first ceiling mounted bracket position at or near parallel to the ceiling to a second ceiling mounted bracket position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling. Further, a hoop is attached to a front of the backboard structure via a hoop bracket, where the hoop bracket is configured to rotate the hoop from a first hoop bracket position at or near parallel to the backboard to a second hoop bracket position at or near orthogonal to the backboard.
Claims
1. A basketball apparatus, comprising: a backboard structure; a pair of ceiling mounted brackets, wherein the ceiling mounted brackets: are attached to a back of the backboard structure, and are configured to rotate the backboard structure from a first ceiling mounted bracket position at or near parallel to the ceiling to a second ceiling mounted bracket position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling; and a hoop attached to a front of the backboard structure via a hoop bracket, wherein the hoop bracket is configured to rotate the hoop from a first hoop bracket position at or near parallel to the backboard to a second hoop bracket position at or near orthogonal to the backboard.
2. The basketball apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a net, wherein the net is attached to the hoop.
3. The basketball apparatus of claim 2, wherein the net is comprised: of a variety of woven or knitted materials to form the net.
4. The basketball apparatus of claim 2; wherein the net additionally comprises: an elastic element configured to increase a plasticity and durability of the net.
5. The basketball apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the ceiling mounted bracket comprises a magnet within a housing, wherein the magnet is configured to maintain the backboard in a first position allowing it to rest parallel to a ceiling.
6. The basketball apparatus of claim 1, wherein the hoop bracket is further comprised of a two-part stop configured to maintain the hoop bracket to be positioned in a first hoop bracket position and a second hoop bracket position.
7. The basketball apparatus of claim 6, wherein the two-part stop of the hoop bracket maintains the hoop in either; the first hoop bracket position allowing for it to rest securely parallel to the backboard structure, or the second hoop bracket position allowing for it rest securely at a 90 degree to the backboard structure.
8. The basketball apparatus of claim 1, wherein the backboard structure is comprises a frame, wherein the frame is configured to cover any specified edges of the backboard structure for protection.
9. The basketball apparatus of claim 8, wherein the frame is configured to reduce impact forces.
10. The basketball apparatus of claim 1, wherein the backboard structure is comprised of an alternative material with shock-absorbing elements, such that the alternative material is integrated into the backboard structure to lessen impact forces.
11. The basketball apparatus of claim 1, wherein the backboard structure is comprised of a plurality of markers.
12. The basketball apparatus of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the hoop is of a standard basketball hoop of 18 inches and is configured to accommodate a regulation-size basketball.
13. The basketball apparatus of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the hoop is configured to be more than one diameter size.
14. A basketball apparatus, comprising: a backboard structure; a pair of ceiling mounted brackets attached to a back of the backboard structure, the ceiling mounted brackets configured to rotate the backboard structure from a first ceiling mounted bracket position at or near parallel to the ceiling to a second ceiling mounted bracket position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling; a hoop attached to a front of the backboard structure via a hoop bracket, the hoop bracket configured to rotate the hoop from a first hoop bracket position at or near parallel to the backboard to a second hoop bracket position at or near orthogonal to the backboard; and a net attached to the hoop, the net comprising a variety of woven or knitted materials.
15. The basketball apparatus of claim 14, wherein the backboard structure further comprises a frame, the frame configured to cover specified edges of the backboard structure for protection.
16. The basketball apparatus of claim 14, wherein the hoop bracket further comprises a two-part stop, the two-part stop configured to maintain the hoop in either the first hoop bracket position, allowing it to rest securely parallel to the backboard structure, or the second hoop bracket position, allowing it to rest securely at a 90-degree angle to the backboard structure.
17. The basketball apparatus of claim 14, wherein each of the ceiling mounted brackets comprises a magnet within a housing, the magnet configured to maintain the backboard in the first position, allowing it to rest parallel to the ceiling.
18. The basketball apparatus of claim 14, wherein the backboard structure is comprised of a shock-absorbing material integrated into the backboard structure to lessen impact forces.
19. The basketball apparatus of claim 16, wherein the hoop is configured to accommodate a regulation-size basketball.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0038] The following description sets forth standard aspects of the present specification, nevertheless, such description is not intended as a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. Basketball is a popular sport played by individuals of all ages, both recreationally and competitively. Throughout time, there have been numerous approaches for basketball devices, which have classically entailed immovable hoops that are strictly attached to the backboard in one position. These fixed placements of the hoop limit the option of storability, or giving the user space-saving options when it is not in use. Typical basketball devices typically can only be found for use in homes, gyms, and recreational facilities with enough space, as they are typically fixed in place and do not offer flexibility in terms of storage or space utilization.
[0039] In addition to the physical structure of the basketball hoop assembly, the game of basketball also involves specific equipment, such as the basketball itself to address these limitations. Some existing basketball devices have attempted to address this limitation by incorporating breakaway rims. These breakaway rims are designed to flex or release under excessive force, reducing the risk of injury. However, these breakaway rims still do not provide the ability for the hoop to rotate away from the backboard to allow for storability and space-saving when not in use or in play. As a result, the overall flexibility and safety of these basketball devices continues to be restricted.
[0040] Other approaches have utilized adjustable height mechanisms through levers or pully systems to allow players to store the hoop and basketball device when not in use. While these mechanisms enhance the versatility of the basketball device to permit storability, they do not address the need for a hoop that can rotate at or near parallel to the backboard. Therefore, these adjustable height mechanisms do not provide a complete solution to the limitations of fixed hoops.
[0041] Other approaches have utilized designing a basketball device to be more like an individual ball and net type games made of lighter weight materials and a smaller size to allow for storability and space-saving. While these do increase the storage and portability options over traditional basketball devices, are only intended to simulate the basic basketball function of throwing a ball into a net. Therefore, these ball and net type games do not provide a complete solution to the limitations of creating a device designed that is intended for indoor basketball activities.
[0042] Thus, the previous approaches to basketball devices have not provided a comprehensive solution that combines the features described in this disclosure, specifically a hoop that is attached to the backboard via a hoop bracket configured to allow rotation away or towards the backboard. The present disclosure aims to overcome these limitations and provide an improved basketball device that offers enhanced flexibility and safety during gameplay.
[0043] In summary, the techniques described here relate to a basketball apparatus comprising a backboard structure and a pair of ceiling mounted brackets, where the ceiling mounted brackets are attached to the back of the backboard structure. Additionally, the ceiling mounted brackets are configured to rotate the backboard structure from a first ceiling mounted bracket position at or near parallel to the ceiling to a second ceiling mounted bracket position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling. Further, a hoop is attached to a front of the backboard structure via a hoop bracket, where the hoop bracket is configured to rotate the hoop from a first hoop bracket position at or near parallel to the backboard to a second hoop bracket position at or near orthogonal to the backboard.
[0044] In some cases, the present disclosure may relate to the field of indoor sports equipment, and more specifically, to a basketball apparatus that is designed for adjustable positioning and space-efficient storage. In some aspects, the basketball apparatus comprises a backboard structure and a pair of ceiling mounted brackets. The ceiling mounted brackets are attached to the back of the backboard structure and are configured to rotate the backboard structure from a first position at or near parallel to the ceiling to a second position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling.
[0045] In some cases, the basketball apparatus also includes a hoop attached to a front of the backboard structure via a hoop bracket. The hoop bracket is configured to rotate the hoop from a first position at or near parallel to the backboard to a second position at or near orthogonal to the backboard. This configuration allows for the basketball apparatus to be easily stored when not in use, providing a space-efficient solution for indoor spaces where space may be at a premium.
[0046] In some embodiments, the basketball apparatus may further include a net, wherein the net is attached to the hoop. The net may comprise a variety of woven or knitted materials to form the net. In some cases, the net may additionally comprise an elastic element, which is configured to increase the plasticity and durability of the net.
[0047] In other embodiments, each of the ceiling mounted brackets may comprise a magnet within a housing on the ceiling mounted bracket. The magnet may maintain the backboard in a first position allowing it to rest parallel to a ceiling. This magnetic feature provides an additional level of stability and security to the basketball apparatus, ensuring that the backboard remains in the desired position when not in use.
[0048] In yet other embodiments, the hoop bracket may be further comprised of a two-part stop on the hoop bracket allowing for it to be positioned in a first hoop bracket position and a second hoop bracket position. This two-part stop feature provides additional flexibility and adaptability to the basketball apparatus, allowing for the hoop to be securely positioned in either a parallel or orthogonal position relative to the backboard.
[0049] In summary, the basketball apparatus of the present disclosure provides a versatile and space-efficient solution for indoor basketball play. Its adjustable positioning and collapsible design allow for easy storage when not in use, while its robust construction and innovative features ensure a satisfying and enjoyable basketball experience.
Definitions and Use of Figures
[0050] Some of the terms used in this description are defined below for easy reference. The presented terms and their respective definitions are not rigidly restricted to these definitionsa term may be further defined by the term's use within this disclosure. The term exemplary is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as exemplary is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, use of the word exemplary is intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application and the appended claims, the term or is intended to mean an inclusive or rather than an exclusive or. That is, unless specified otherwise, or is clear from the context, X employs A or B is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A, X employs B, or X employs both A and B, then X employs A or B is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. As used herein, at least one of A or B means at least one of A, or at least one of B, or at least one of both A and B. In other words, this phrase is disjunctive. The articles a and an as used in this application and the appended claims should generally be construed to mean one or more unless specified otherwise or is clear from the context to be directed to a singular form.
[0051] Various embodiments are described herein with reference to the figures. It should be noted that the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale, and that elements of similar structures or functions are sometimes represented by like reference characters throughout the figures. It should also be noted that the figures are only intended to facilitate the description of the disclosed embodimentsthey are not representative of an exhaustive treatment of all possible embodiments, and they are not intended to impute any limitation as to the scope of the claims. In addition, an illustrated embodiment need not portray all aspects or advantages of usage in any particular environment.
[0052] An aspect or an advantage described in conjunction with a particular embodiment is not necessarily limited to that embodiment and can be practiced in any other embodiments even if not so illustrated. References throughout this specification to some embodiments or other embodiments refer to a particular feature, structure, material or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments as being included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearance of the phrases in some embodiments or in other embodiments in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment or embodiments. The disclosed embodiments are not intended to be limiting of the claims.
Descriptions of Exemplary Embodiments
[0053]
[0054] As shown, the basketball apparatus itself 100, which is comprised of a backboard structure 102, a pair of ceiling mounted brackets attached to the back of the backboard structure, and a hoop 104 attached to a front of the backboard structure via a hoop bracket 106.
[0055] Additionally, representing backboard structure 102 of the Foldable Indoor Ceiling Mounted Basketball Hoop Assembly. The backboard structure 102 is constructed in a fan-shape. The backboard structure 102 has a current dimension of 18 inches wide and 16.25 inches tall and is constructed out of a polycarbonate material. Polycarbonate is a strong, durable, and impact-resistant material, making it suitable for use in the backboard structure 102, as it may be subjected to the impact of a basketball. In some cases, the polycarbonate material may be transparent or translucent, allowing for visibility through the backboard structurer 102, or allowing it to be colored or decorated with various designs or logos.
[0056] In addition, representing the hoop 104 of the Foldable Indoor Ceiling Mounted Basketball Hoop Assembly. The hoop 104 is formed in a circular shape, wherein the diameter of the hoop 104 is that of a standard basketball hoop of 18 inches, but may be of various sizes. The hoop 104 is currently constructed out of OD steel tubing, and can be further constructed to comprise a net, wherein the net is attached to the hoop. The hoop 104 may include features, such as hooks or clamps, for engaging with the net or other corresponding features.
[0057] Further, representing the hoop bracket 106 of the Foldable Indoor Ceiling Mounted Basketball Hoop Assembly. The hoop bracket 106 is configured to rotate the hoop 104 from a first position point that is at or near parallel to the backboard structure 102 to a second hoop position point at or near orthogonal to the backboard structure 102, which allows for the basketball apparatus to be folded or collapsed when not in use, thereby providing a space-efficient solution for storage. The hoop bracket 106 may be constructed out of various materials, including but not limited to steel, aluminum, or other suitable metals or alloys.
[0058] The device assembly may include various attachment points to be used for securing the device assembly to another structure or surface, such as a ceiling or wall. In some cases, the attachment points may be configured to receive fasteners, such as screws or bolts, for securing the device assembly. In other cases, the attachment points may include features, such as hooks or clamps, for engaging with corresponding features on the structure or surface to which the device assembly is to be attached.
[0059] A hinged section may be positioned at the lower part of the device assembly. The hinged section may facilitate movement or adjustment of the device assembly relative to the surface it is attached to. In some aspects, the hinged section may be capable of pivoting at the point where it connects to the central area, allowing for a change in orientation or position of the device assembly. For example, the hinged section may be configured to pivot from a position where it is aligned with the central area to a position where it is orthogonal to the central area. This pivotable configuration of the hinged section may allow for the device assembly to be folded or collapsed when not in use, thereby providing a space-efficient solution for storage.
[0060] The backboard structure 102 may be constructed out of a polycarbonate material. Polycarbonate is a strong, durable, and impact-resistant material, making it suitable for use in a basketball apparatus where it may be subjected to the impact of a basketball. In some cases, the polycarbonate material may be transparent or translucent, allowing for visibility through the backboard structure 102. In other cases, the polycarbonate material may be opaque or may be colored or decorated with various designs or logos.
[0061] In some aspects, the techniques described here relate to a basketball apparatus comprises a backboard structure and a pair of ceiling mounted brackets, where the ceiling mounted brackets are attached to the back of the backboard structure. Additionally, the ceiling mounted brackets are configured to rotate the backboard structure from a first ceiling mounted bracket position at or near parallel to the ceiling to a second ceiling mounted bracket position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling. Further, a hoop is attached to a front of the backboard structure via a hoop bracket, where the hoop bracket is configured to rotate the hoop from a first hoop bracket position at or near parallel to the backboard to a second hoop bracket position at or near orthogonal to the backboard.
[0062] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, further including a net.
[0063] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, where the net comprises a variety of woven or knitted materials to form the net.
[0064] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, where the net additionally comprises an elastic element where the elastic element is configured increase the plasticity and durability of the net.
[0065] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, where each of the ceiling mounted bracket comprises a magnet within a housing on the ceiling mounted bracket.
[0066] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, where the magnet maintains the backboard in a first position allowing it to rest parallel to a ceiling.
[0067] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, where the hoop bracket is further comprised of a two-part stop on the hoop bracket allowing for it to be positioned in a first hoop bracket position and a second hoop bracket position.
[0068] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, where the two-part stop of the hoop bracket maintains the hoop in either; the first hoop bracket position allowing for it to rest securely parallel to the backboard structure, or the second hoop bracket position allowing for it rest securely at a 90 degree to the backboard structure.
[0069] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, where the backboard structure is comprising a frame, where the frame covers any specified edges of the backboard structure for protection.
[0070] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, where the frame is configured to decrease impact forces
[0071] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, where the backboard structure is comprised of an alternative material with shock-absorbing elements, such that the alternative material is integrated into the backboard structure to lessen impact forces.
[0072] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, where the backboard structure is comprised of a plurality of markers.
[0073] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, where a diameter of the hoop is of a standard basketball hoop of 18 inches.
[0074] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, where a diameter of the hoop includes more than one diameter size.
[0075] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, where the ceiling mounted bracket includes a magnet within a housing of the ceiling mounted bracket.
[0076] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, where the magnet keeps the backboard in a first position resting parallel to a ceiling.
[0077] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a basketball apparatus, where the the hoop is configured to accommodate a regulation-size basketball
[0078] According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the basketball apparatus may include a net, wherein the net is attached to the hoop. The net may comprise a variety of woven or knitted materials. The net may additionally comprise an elastic element wherein the clastic element is configured to increase the plasticity and durability of the net.
[0079] According to further aspects of the present disclosure, each of the ceiling mounted brackets may comprise a magnet within a housing on the ceiling mounted bracket. The magnet may maintain the backboard in a first position allowing it to rest parallel to a ceiling.
[0080] According to yet other aspects of the present disclosure, the hoop bracket may be further comprised of a two-part stop on the hoop bracket allowing for it to be positioned in a first hoop bracket position and a second hoop bracket position. The two-part stop of the hoop bracket may maintain the hoop in either the first hoop bracket position allowing for it to rest securely parallel to the backboard structure, or the second hoop bracket position allowing for it to rest securely at a 90-degree angle to the backboard structure.
[0081] According to additional aspects of the present disclosure, the backboard structure may comprise a frame, wherein the frame covers any specified edges of the backboard structure for protection. The frame may be configured to decrease impact forces. The backboard structure may be comprised of an alternative material with shock-absorbing elements, such that the alternative material is integrated into the backboard structure to lessen impact forces.
[0082] According to other aspects of the present disclosure, a diameter of the hoop may be of a standard basketball hoop of 18 inches. Alternatively, the diameter of the hoop may include more than one diameter size.
[0083] More illustrative information will now be set forth regarding various optional architectures and uses in which the foregoing method may or may not be implemented, per the desires of the user. It should be strongly noted that the following information is set forth for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. Any of the following features may be optionally incorporated with or without the exclusion of other features described.
[0084]
[0085] As shown, the overhead perspective 200 shows the basketball apparatus itself, which is comprised of a backboard structure 102, a pair of ceiling mounted brackets 202 attached to the back of the backboard structure 102, and a hoop 104 attached to a front of the backboard structure via a hoop bracket 106 in Front Face Perspective Foldable Indoor Ceiling Mounted Basketball Hoop Assembly 100. Additionally, the overhead perspective 200 shows a pair of ceiling mounted brackets 202, wherein the ceiling mounted brackets 202 are attached to the back of the backboard structure 102. The ceiling mounted brackets 202 are configured to rotate the backboard structure 102 from a first ceiling mounted bracket 202 position point at or near parallel to the ceiling to a second ceiling mounted bracket 202 position point at or near orthogonal to the ceiling. The ceiling mounted brackets allows for the adjustment of the backboard structure 102 positions, providing maneuverability in the orientation of the basketball apparatus.
[0086]
[0087] As shown, a side perspective 300 of basketball apparatus itself, which is comprised of a backboard structure 102, and a hoop 104 attached to a front of the backboard structure 102 via a hoop bracket 106 mentioned in Front Face Perspective Foldable Indoor Ceiling Mounted Basketball Hoop Assembly 100. Also, the side perspective 300 shows one of the ceiling mounted brackets 202, which is attached to the back of the backboard structure 102 mentioned in Overhead Perspective 200 of the Foldable Indoor Ceiling Mounted Basketball Hoop Assembly.
[0088] Additionally, the side perspective 300 shows the ceiling mounted bracket mechanism 302 which allows the ceiling mounted brackets 202 to be configured to have a mechanism to engage to rotate the backboard structure 102 from a first ceiling mounted bracket 202 position point at or near parallel to the ceiling to a second ceiling mounted bracket 202 position point at or near orthogonal to the ceiling. The ceiling mounted bracket mechanism 302 may be constructed out of various materials, including but not limited to steel, aluminum, or other suitable metals or alloys.
[0089] This pivotable configuration of the hinged section may allow for the basketball apparatus to be folded or collapsed when not in use, thereby providing a space-efficient solution for storage.
[0090] At the end of the hinged section, attachment points may be visible, which likely serve to connect to or support the basketball hoop. The attachment points may be configured to receive fasteners, such as screws or bolts, for securing the basketball hoop to the hinged section. In other cases, the attachment points may include features, such as hooks or clamps, for engaging with corresponding features on the basketball hoop.
[0091] In some embodiments, the ceiling mounted bracket of the basketball apparatus may also include a ceiling mounted bracket support, where it may add stability to the devices when rotating the backboard structure from a first ceiling mounted bracket position point at or near parallel to the ceiling to a second ceiling mounted bracket position point at or near orthogonal to the ceiling. The ceiling mounted bracket support may be constructed out of various materials, including but not limited to steel, aluminum, or other suitable metals or alloys. The ceiling mounted bracket support may be configured to resist bending or flexing, thereby enhancing the stability and rigidity of the basketball apparatus.
[0092]
[0093] As shown, a blown-out perspective 400 includes the basketball apparatus itself, which is comprised of a backboard structure 102, and a hoop 104 attached to a front of the backboard structure 102 via a hoop bracket 106 mentioned in Front Face Perspective Foldable Indoor Ceiling Mounted Basketball Hoop Assembly 100. Also, the blown-out perspective 400 shows one of the ceiling mounted brackets 202, which is attached to the back of the backboard structure 102 mentioned in Overhead Perspective 200 of the Foldable Indoor Ceiling Mounted Basketball Hoop Assembly.
[0094] Additionally, the blown-out perspective 400 representing the hoop bracket back-plate 402 allowing the hoop 104 to be securely attached to the front of the backboard structure 102 via a hoop bracket 106 mentioned in Front Face Perspective Foldable Indoor Ceiling Mounted Basketball Hoop Assembly 100.
[0095] In addition, the ceiling mounted bracket 202 of the Foldable Indoor Ceiling Mounted Basketball Hoop Assembly may also include ceiling mounted bracket support 404, which may add stability to the devices when rotating the backboard structure 102 from a first ceiling mounted bracket 202 position point at or near parallel to the ceiling to a second ceiling mounted bracket 202 position point at or near orthogonal to the ceiling. The ceiling mounted bracket support 404 is configured to help the ceiling mounted bracket 202 resist bending or flexing, thereby overall enhancing the stability and rigidity of the basketball apparatus.
[0096]
[0097] Additionally, representing the ceiling mounted bracket 202, where in the bracket is comprised of housing for a magnet 502, which allows for additional fastening of the back board structure 102 when it is being kept in its second ceiling mounted bracket 202 position point that is at or near orthogonal to the ceiling.
[0098] In addition, representing the ceiling bracket magnet 504 within the magnet housing 502 on the ceiling mounted bracket 202, wherein the magnet aids in maintaining the ceiling mounted bracket 202 in its second ceiling mounted bracket 202 position point that is at or near orthogonal to the ceiling as when the bracket mechanism 302 is engaged, to rotate the backboard structure 102 from its first ceiling mounted bracket 202 position point at or near parallel to the ceiling to a second ceiling mounted bracket position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling.
[0099]
[0100] As shown, the top of the ceiling mounted bracket 202, which is positioned at the uppermost part of the assembly, provides the place for fastening to the ceiling as well as giving protective enclosure for the components beneath it. Directly below the front face perspective 600, the magnet 502 is enclosed, serving as a support clement for the ceiling mounted bracket 202, where the ceiling bracket magnet 504 engages with the top part of engages with the ceiling mounted bracket 202 as it is being kept in its a second ceiling mounted bracket position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling. At the bottom of the ceiling mounted bracket 202 is the Ceiling Mounted Bracket Mechanism 302, which when engage is the mechanisms that permits the ceiling mounted bracket 202 to rotate the backboard structure 102 from a first ceiling mounted bracket position at or near parallel to the ceiling to a second ceiling mounted bracket position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling.
[0101]
[0102] As depicted, the complete hoop assembly 700 includes the prior referenced the hoop 104, and hoop release handle 702. The release handle 702 is designed to be the mechanism that allows for engaging the rotation from a first hoop 104 position point at or near parallel to the backboard 102 to a second hoop 104 position point at or near orthogonal to the backboard 102 when the release handle 702 is engaged. The hoop release handle 702 is situated within the hoop 104, and the hoop bracket 106. The release handle 702 being enclosed between the hoop bracket 106 and the hoop 104, signifying the engagement mechanism between the two structures. The release handle 702 may also be constructed out of various materials, including but not limited to steel, aluminum, or other suitable metals or alloys.
[0103]
[0104] In both views of 800A and 800B, the hoop 104 interacts with the release handle 702, which is designed to secure components to the hoop bracket 106. The detailed view 800B further illustrates a hoop alignment 802B, which functions to aligning the hoop 104 into specified stopping points when rotating from a first hoop 104 position point at or near parallel to the backboard 102 to a second hoop 104 position point at or near orthogonal to the backboard structure 102 when the release handle 702 is engaged. The release handle 702 is shown in both views, indicating its importance in the engaging or actuating the rotating process of the hoop 104, while the hoop bracket 106 provides a structural context for the assembly being attached to the backboard structure 102. The hoop alignment 802B works in conjunction with the release handle 702 to secure or guide the hoop 104 and hoop bracket 106 into their desired positions.
[0105]
[0106] As shown, the additional front face perspective 900 shows the foldable indoor ceiling mounted basketball hoop assembly from a front-on perspective. At this perspective, it can be seen that the basketball hoop 104 is in a folded-up position. The release handle 702, shown visibly in this configuration, may be used to release hoop bracket 106, enabling it to fold up into the position shown in the additional front face perspective 900. This release handle 702 may additionally, in one embodiment, be used to release the basketball hoop bracket 106 such that the hoop 104 can then be folded downward into a position orthogonal to the basketball backboard 102.
[0107]
[0108] As shown, the additional side view perspective 1000 shows the foldable indoor ceiling mounted basketball hoop assembly from a side view perspective. At this perspective, it can be seen that the basketball hoop 104 is in a folded-up position, and the backboard structure 102 is in a transition phase to being in a folded-up position The release handle 702, shown visibly in this configuration, may be used to release hoop bracket 106, enabling it to fold up into the position shown in the additional front face perspective 900. This release handle 702 may additionally, in one embodiment, be used to release the basketball hoop bracket 106 such that the hoop 104 can then be folded downward into a position orthogonal to the basketball backboard 102. The ceiling mounted bracket mechanism 302 located on each of the ceiling mounted brackets 202 may be used to release the ceiling mounted brackets 202, enabling them to release the backboard structure 102 from a second ceiling mounted bracket 202 position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling to then fold up into a first ceiling mounted bracket 202 position that is at or near parallel to the ceiling. This ceiling mounted bracket mechanism 302, may additionally, in one embodiment, be used to release the ceiling mounted brackets 202 such that the backboard structure 102 can then be folded downward from a ceiling mounted brackets 202 position that is at or near parallel to the ceiling into a ceiling mounted bracket 202 position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling.
[0109]
[0110] As shown, the additional view 1100 shows the foldable indoor ceiling mounted basketball hoop assembly from an additional view perspective. At this perspective, it can be seen that the basketball hoop 104 is in a folded-up position, and the backboard structure 102 is also in a folded-up position. The release handle 702, shown visibly in this configuration, may be used to release hoop bracket 106, enabling it to fold up into the position shown in the additional front face perspective 900. This release handle 702 may additionally, in one embodiment, be used to release the basketball hoop bracket 106 such that the hoop 104 can then be folded downward into a position orthogonal to the basketball backboard 102. Further showing the ceiling mounted bracket mechanism 302 located on each of the ceiling mounted brackets 202 may be used to release the ceiling mounted brackets, enabling them to release the backboard structure 202 to then be folded downward from a ceiling mounted bracket 202 position that is at or near parallel to the ceiling into a ceiling mounted bracket 202 position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling, enabling the backboard structure 102 to fold up into the position shown in the perspective shown in the additional view 1100. This ceiling mounted bracket mechanism 302, may additionally, in one embodiment, be used to release the ceiling mounted brackets 202, enabling them to release the backboard structure 102 from a second ceiling mounted bracket 202 position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling to then fold up into a first ceiling mounted bracket 202 position that is at or near parallel to the ceiling.
[0111]
[0112] As depicted, the different stage perspective 1200 includes the first stage perspective 1202 where the foldable indoor ceiling mounted basketball hoop assembly has the hoop 104 in its second hoop bracket 106 position at or near orthogonal to the backboard 102, and the backboard structure 102 in its second ceiling mounted bracket 202 position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling. The second stage perspective 1204 further illustrates the hoop 104 having been rotated to the first hoop bracket 106 position at or near parallel to the backboard 102, and the backboard structure 102 still in its second ceiling mounted bracket 202 position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling. The third stage perspective 1206 additional clarification of the hoop 104 having been rotated to the first hoop bracket 106 position at or near parallel to the backboard 102, and the backboard structure 102 now in transition from the second ceiling mounted bracket 202 position at or near orthogonal to the ceiling to the first ceiling mounted bracket 202 position at or near parallel to the ceiling. The fourth stage perspective 1208 illustrates the hoop 104 in the first hoop bracket 106 position at or near parallel to the backboard 102, and the backboard structure 102 in the first ceiling mounted bracket 202 position at or near parallel to the ceiling.
[0113] In various embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a collapsible indoor basketball apparatus. The apparatus comprises a backboard structure and a pair of ceiling mounted brackets. The brackets are attached to the back of the backboard structure and are configured to rotate the backboard structure from a position parallel to the ceiling to a position orthogonal to the ceiling. The apparatus also includes a hoop attached to the front of the backboard structure via a hoop bracket. The hoop bracket is configured to rotate the hoop from a position parallel to the backboard to a position orthogonal to the backboard. The apparatus may further include a net attached to the hoop. The apparatus provides a space-efficient solution for indoor spaces where space may be at a premium.
[0114] It should be understood that the arrangement of components illustrated in the Figures described are exemplary and that other arrangements are possible. It should also be understood that the various system components (and means) defined by the claims, described below, and illustrated in the various block diagrams represent logical components in some systems configured according to the subject matter disclosed herein.
[0115] For example, one or more of these system components (and means) may be realized, in whole or in part, by at least some of the components illustrated in the arrangements illustrated in the described Figures. In addition, while at least one of these components are implemented at least partially as an electronic hardware component, and therefore constitutes a machine, the other components may be implemented in software that when included in an execution environment constitutes a machine, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.
[0116] More particularly, at least one component defined by the claims is implemented at least partially as an electronic hardware component, such as an instruction execution machine (e.g., a processor-based or processor-containing machine) and/or as specialized circuits or circuitry (e.g., discreet logic gates interconnected to perform a specialized function). Other components may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware. Moreover, some or all of these other components may be combined, some may be omitted altogether, and additional components may be added while still achieving the functionality described herein. Thus, the subject matter described herein may be embodied in many different variations, and all such variations are contemplated to be within the scope of what is claimed.
[0117] To facilitate an understanding of the subject matter described herein, many aspects are described in terms of sequences of actions. At least one of these aspects defined by the claims is performed by an electronic hardware component. For example, it will be recognized that the various actions may be performed by specialized circuits or circuitry, by program instructions being executed by one or more processors, or by a combination of both. The description herein of any sequence of actions is not intended to imply that the specific order described for performing that sequence must be followed. All methods described herein may be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context
[0118] The use of the terms a and an and the and similar referents in the context of describing the subject matter (particularly in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. Furthermore, the foregoing description is for the purpose of illustration only, and not for the purpose of limitation, as the scope of protection sought is defined by the claims as set forth hereinafter together with any equivalents thereof entitled to. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., such as) provided herein, is intended merely to better illustrate the subject matter and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the subject matter unless otherwise claimed. The use of the term based on and other like phrases indicating a condition for bringing about a result, both in the claims and in the written description, is not intended to foreclose any other conditions that bring about that result. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention as claimed.
[0119] The inventor expects skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventor intends for the claimed subject matter to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this claimed subject matter includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. However, while the subject matter is being described in the foregoing context, it is not meant to be limiting as those of skill in the art will appreciate that various of the acts and operations described hereinafter may also be implemented in the claimed subject matter.