FLAG FOOTBALL SYSTEM

Abstract

A flag system includes a flag carrier and a flag unit. The flag unit includes a flag, and a flag coupler connected to the flag and configured to be releasably connected to the flag carrier. The flag unit is user reconfigurable between a first flag unit separation difficulty state and a second flag unit separation difficulty state.

Claims

1. A flag system comprising: a flag carrier; a flag unit comprising: a flag; and a flag coupler connected to the flag and configured to be releasably connected to the flag carrier, wherein the flag comprises a band having a hanging length extending from and projecting beyond the flag coupler to a terminal end, and a nonuniform width along the length, wherein a proximal 50 percent of the length has a first surface area and wherein a distal 50 percent of the length has a second surface area at least 20% less than the first surface area.

2. The flag system of claim 1, wherein the second surface area is at least 30% less than the first surface area.

3. The flag system of claim 1, wherein the second surface area is at least 40% less than the first surface area.

4. The flag system of claim 1, wherein the second surface area is at least 50% less than the first surface area.

5. The flag system of claim 1, wherein the flag tapers along at least 50% of the hanging length.

6. The flag system of claim 1, wherein the flag comprises a first tapered portion of the length tapering at a first angle and a second tapered portion of the hanging length tapering at a second angle different than the first angle.

7. The flag system of claim 1 further comprising a flag connector carried by the flag carrier, wherein the flag carrier comprises a belt and wherein the flag connector is slidable along the belt.

8. The flag system of claim 7, wherein the flag connector comprises a pair of parallel slots through which the belt passes.

9. The flag system of claim 7, wherein the flag connector comprises one of a hollow tube and a plug, wherein the flag coupler comprise the other of the hollow tube and the plug, wherein the plug is slidably received within the hollow tube and wherein the plug comprises at least one stop surface configured to abut an axial rim the hollow tube when the plug is fully received within the hollow tube.

10. The flag system of claim 9, wherein the plug comprises a second hollow tube having internal ribs.

11. The flag system of claim 9, wherein an exterior of the hollow tube has a first visual appearance and wherein an exterior of the plug has a second visual appearance different than the first visual appearance.

12. The flag system of claim 11, wherein the first visual appearance comprises a first color and wherein the second visual appearance comprises a second color different than the first color.

13. The flag system of claim 12, wherein the second color is selected from a group of colors consisting of a neon color, orange, yellow, white and red.

14. The flag system of claim 9, wherein the hollow tube has a first internal axial length and wherein the plug has a second axial length less than the first internal axial length.

15. The flag system of claim 14 further comprising a second flag unit identical to the flag unit except that the plug has a third axial length different than the first axial length.

16. The flag system of claim 9, wherein an exterior surface of the plug comprises spaced indicia along its axial length indicating different extents to which the plug is inserted into the hollow tube.

17. The flag system of claim 9, wherein the plug comprises a tube insertion portion and wherein the at least one stop surface projects outwardly beyond the tube insertion portion to engage a rim of the hollow tube in response to the tube insertion portion being fully received within the hollow tube.

18. The flag system of claim 17, wherein the at least one stop surface comprises a ring encircling a longitudinal axis of the tube insertion portion on an axial end of the tube insertion portion.

19. The flag system of claim 7, wherein the flag connector comprises a first portion having a pair of slots through which the belt extends, and a second portion angled away from the first portion, the second portion configured to releasably connect to the flag coupler.

20. The flag system of claim 1 further comprising a flag connector carried by the flag carrier, wherein the flag carrier comprises a belt and wherein the flag connector comprises one of a hollow tube and a plug, wherein the flag coupler comprise the other of the hollow tube and the plug, wherein the plug is slidably received within the hollow tube and wherein the plug comprises at least one stop surface configured to abut an axial rim the hollow tube when the plug is fully received within the hollow tube.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example flag unit in a first flag unit separation difficulty state.

[0004] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating the example flag unit of FIG. 1 in a second flag unit separation difficulty state.

[0005] FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example flag unit in a first flag unit separation difficulty state.

[0006] FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating schematically illustrating the example flag unit of FIG. 3 in a second flag unit separation difficulty state.

[0007] FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example flag unit in a first flag unit separation difficulty state.

[0008] FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically illustrating schematically illustrating the example flag unit of FIG. 5 in a second flag unit separation difficulty state.

[0009] FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example flag unit in a first flag unit separation difficulty state.

[0010] FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically illustrating schematically illustrating the example flag unit of FIG. 7 in a second flag unit separation difficulty state.

[0011] FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example flag unit in a first flag unit separation difficulty state.

[0012] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating schematically illustrating the example flag unit of FIG. 9 in a second flag unit separation difficulty state.

[0013] FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example flag unit in a first flag unit separation difficulty state.

[0014] FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically illustrating schematically illustrating the example flag unit of FIG. 11 in a second flag unit separation difficulty state.

[0015] FIG. 13 is a top view illustrating an example flag for an example flag unit for an example flag system.

[0016] FIG. 14 is a top view illustrating an example flag for an example flag unit for an example flag system.

[0017] FIG. 15 is a top view illustrating an example flag for an example flag unit for an example flag system.

[0018] FIG. 16 is a top view illustrating an example flag for an example flag unit for an example flag system.

[0019] FIG. 17 is a top view illustrating an example flag for an example flag unit for an example flag system.

[0020] FIG. 18 is a top view illustrating an example flag for an example flag unit for an example flag system.

[0021] FIG. 19 is a fragmentary perspective view illustrating portions of an example flag carrier supporting an example flag connector for an example flag system.

[0022] FIG. 20 is a rear perspective view of the example flag connector of FIG. 19.

[0023] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an example flag coupler for use with the example flag connector of FIG. 20.

[0024] FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating the example flag connector of FIG. 20 and the example flag coupler of FIG. 21.

[0025] FIG. 23 is a perspective view illustrating an assembly of the example flag connector of FIG. 20 and the example flag coupler of FIG. 21.

[0026] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 23.

[0027] FIG. 25 is a sectional view of the assembly of FIG. 24 taken along line 25-25.

[0028] FIG. 26 is a sectional view of an assembly of the example flag coupler of FIG. 21 and an example flag connector.

[0029] FIG. 27 is a perspective view illustrating portions of an example flag carrier and an example flag connector.

[0030] FIG. 28 is a sectional view illustrating an example flag coupler connected to a first portion of the example flag connector of FIG. 27.

[0031] FIG. 29 is a section example flag coupler of FIG. 28 connected to a second portion of the example flag connector of FIG. 27.

[0032] Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements. The figures are not necessarily to scale and the size of some parts may be exaggerated to more clearly illustrate the example shown. Moreover, the drawings provide examples and/or implementations consistent with the description; however, the description is not limited to the examples and/or implementations provided in the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES

[0033] Disclosed are example flag systems that offer selectable or customized play difficulty, user selectable levels of difficulty for separating/pulling a flag from its carrier or belt. Because such flag systems offer user selectable levels of flag separation difficulty, different players on a team or different players participating in a sport may be provided with different degrees of flag separation difficulty to accommodate player characteristics, such as different player ages, heights or skill levels. As result, different players with different characteristics, such as different ages or skill levels, may more easily compete with one another on the same team or on different competing teams. The example flag systems further offer configurations that increase the level of skill necessary to pull a flag or separate the flag from its belt or carrier. Increasing the likelihood of missed flag pulls that may create more interesting play and viewing.

[0034] The example flag systems comprise a flag carrier and a flag unit. The flag carrier carries the flag unit which generally hangs or is suspended from the flag carrier from regions proximate a waist of the player. In some implementations, the flag carrier comprises a belt secured about the waste of the player. In other implementations, the flag carrier may be provided as part of a pair of shorts or other garments. In some implementations, the flag carrier is directly connected to the flag unit. In other implementations, the flag carrier supports a flag connector which connects to the flag unit. In some implementations, the flag connector is connected directly to the flag, without intervening flag coupler. In implementations where the flag carrier comprises a belt, the flag connector may slide along the belt to facilitate repositioning of the flag unit along the belt and about the waist of the player.

[0035] The flag unit may comprise a flag and a flag coupler. The flag comprises a strap or band of flexible material configured to be grasped and pulled by another player. The flag coupler is connected to the flag and couples the flag to the flag connector. The flag unit is user reconfigurable between a first flag unit separation difficulty state and a second flag unit separation difficulty state.

[0036] In some implementations, the flag comprises a band having a hanging length extending from and projecting beyond the flag coupler to a terminal end, and a nonuniform width along the length, wherein a proximal 50 percent of the length has a first surface area and wherein a distal 50 percent of the length has a second surface area at least 20% less than the first surface area. In some implementations, the second surface area is at least 30% less than the first surface area. In some implementations, the second surface area is at least 40% less than the first surface area. In some implementations, the second surface area is at least 50% less than the first surface area. In some implementations, the flag tapers along at least 50% of the hanging length. In some implementations, the flag comprises a first tapered portion of the length tapering at a first angle and a second tapered portion of the hanging length tapering at a second angle different than the first angle.

[0037] In some implementations, the flag is separable or removable from flag coupler. In some implementations, the flag is configured to be releasably or removably coupled to the flag coupler such that either of its two ends may hang from the flag coupler and from the flag carrier. As a result, a person may select which end of the flag is to hang from the flag carrier. The different ends of the flag may offer different degrees flag pulling difficulty. For example, a first end of the flag may offer a first total surface area for being grabbed by an opposing player while a second end of the flag may offer a second total surface area, less than the first total surface area, for being grabbed by an opposing player. As described above, in some implementations, the flag may be tapered or otherwise shaped such that the first end portion of the flag offers a first total surface area for being grasped while the second end portion of flag offers a second smaller surface area for being grabbed. The flag is permanently attached to the flag coupler, meaning that the flag cannot be separated from the flag coupler without damage to one or both of the flag coupler and the flag.

[0038] In some implementations, the flag is adjustably connected to the flag coupler or the flag carrier to permit the length of the flag hung or suspended from the flag carrier to be customized for a selected degree of flag separation or pulling difficulty. To increase the difficulty level, the length of the flag suspended or hanging from the flag carrier may be shortened. In some implementations such length adjustment is achieved by varying the extent to which the flag overlaps itself, if at all. In some implementations, the flag may be shortened. In other implementations, the flag hanging length may be shortened by being rolled or folded. In some implementations, the belt coupler is configured to enable both flags to be flipped or reversed to hang either the first and/or the second of the flag as well as having an adjustable hanging length.

[0039] Disclosed are example flag systems, wherein the flag connector and the flag coupler are configured to provide multiple user selectable degrees of flag separation/pulling difficulty. In some implementations, the flag carrier carries multiple differently configured flag connectors are a flag connector having multiple available points of connection with a flag coupler, wherein each of the flag connectors or points of connection, when secured to a flag coupler of the flag unit provide a different degree of resistance with respect to separation of the flag coupler (and flag) from the particular chosen flag connector.

[0040] In one example implementation, the flag connector comprises a first hollow tube having a first interior having a first length and a second hollow tube having a second interior having a second length greater than the first length. The flag coupler, secured to a flag, comprises a plug that is slidably received within the first interior or within the second interior. The longer second length permits the plug to be inserted a greater distance into the hollow interior of the second flag coupler, providing greater resistance or a greater degree of difficulty for separation of the flag unit from the flag carrier.

[0041] In one example implementation, the flag connectors comprise first and second plugs that are configured to be slidably received within a hollow tube of a flag coupler. The first plug has a first axial length the second plug has a second axial length greater than the first axial length. The longer second axial length of the second plug permits a longer plug to be inserted a greater distance into the hollow interior of the flag coupler, providing greater resistance or greater degree of difficulty for separation of flag unit from the flag carrier. In each of the examples, the user may select one of the flag connectors for connection to the particular flag coupler of a flag unit. Younger players or less experienced players may choose to use the particular first flag connector providing the least amount of resistance for flag pulling, whereas adult players or more experienced players may choose to use the particular second flag connector providing a greater amount of resistance or flag pulling.

[0042] Disclosed are example flag systems that assist in ensuring consistent intended flag unit separation or flag pulling difficulty. In example flag systems, the flag connector comprises one of a hollow tube and a plug, wherein the flag coupler comprises the other of the hollow tube and the plug. The plug may have a plug insertion portion having an axial length less than an internal axial length of the hollow tube. The plug is shaped and configured to tightly fit into the hollow tube in frictional engagement with the interior of the hollow tube. Pulling of the plug out of the tube requires a pulling force which may be dependent upon an extent to which the plug is received within the hollow tube.

[0043] To ensure a consistent pulling force amongst different flag units and players, the plug comprises at least one stop surface configured to abut an axial rim of the hollow tube when the plug is fully received within the hollow tube. As a result, the players are provided with a tactile and visual indication (the stop surface abutting the rim) of when the plug is fully inserted to its maximum extent. In some implementations, the plug comprises a tube insertion portion and wherein the at least one stop surface projects outwardly beyond the tube insertion portion to engage a rim of the hollow tube in response to the tube insertion portion being fully received within the hollow tube. In some implementations, the at least one stop surface comprises a ring encircling a longitudinal axis of the tube insertion portion on an axial end of the tube insertion portion.

[0044] In some implementations, an exterior surface of the plug comprises spaced indicia along its axial length indicating different extents to which the plug is inserted into the hollow tube. In some implementations, an exterior of the hollow tube has a first visual appearance and wherein an exterior of the plug has a second visual appearance different than the first visual appearance. In some implementations, the first visual appearance comprises a first color and wherein the second visual appearance comprises a second color different than the first color. In some implementations, the second color is selected from a group of colors consisting of a neon color, orange, yellow, white and red. As a result, in circumstances where the plug is not fully inserted into the hollow tube, the second visual appearance (such as a different color) will be visibly exposed, permitting the player or a coach to address the air by more fully inserting the plug into the hollow tube. This may be especially beneficial with younger participants who may not always recognize that the plugs of their flags are fully inserted.

[0045] In some implementations, the flag coupler comprises the plug. In such implementations, the plug may have a hollow interior (reducing weight) with internal ribs. The internal ribs prevents the outer shape of the plug (shaped and configured to tightly fit into the hollow tube in frictional engagement with an interior the hollow tube) from being damaged or deformed in circumstances where the plug may be axially stepped on once a flag is pulled and dropped to the ground.

[0046] Disclosed are example flag systems that inhibit unintended movement of a flag connector and that assist in ensuring that the flag units are consistently coupled to the flag carrier at particular locations along the flag carrier. Said another way, the example flag systems assist in ensuring that the flags are properly positioned along the sides of the player (and potentially at the rear of the player) despite repeated flag pulls. During repeated flag pulls during a game or competition, the flag connector may sometimes slip, twist, slide or bunch when competitors are pulling the flag prior to separation of the flag from the flag carrier. This may result in the flag connector being improperly positioned and may require that the player reposition the flag connector between plays, slowing gameplay. The example flag systems reduce this likelihood by having flag connectors that have a pair of parallel spaced slots through which the flag carrier/belt extends. In other words, the belt passes through a first slot, extends across portions of the flag connector and passes through a second slot. The portion of the flag connector between the pair of parallel slots frictionally resists inadvertent sliding of the carrier along the belt. In some implementations, the surface of the flag connector between the pair of parallel slots may include teeth or a roughened surface to further inhibit inadvertent sliding of the flag connector along the belt during a flag pull.

[0047] For purposes of this disclosure, the term coupled shall mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two members, or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate member being attached to one another. Such a joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature.

[0048] For purposes of this disclosure, the phrase configured to denotes an actual state of configuration that fundamentally ties the stated function/use to the physical characteristics of the feature proceeding the phrase configured to.

[0049] For purposes of this disclosure, the term releasably or removably with respect to an attachment or coupling of two structures means that the two structures may be repeatedly connected and disconnected to and from one another without material damage to either of the two structures or their functioning.

[0050] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate an example flag system 20. Flag system 20 offers selectable or customized play difficultly, user selectable levels of difficulty for separating/pulling a flag from its carrier or belt. Because system 20 offers user selectable levels of flag separation difficulty, different players on a team or different players participating in a sport may be provided with different degrees of flag separation difficulty to accommodate player characteristics, such as different player ages, heights or skill levels. As result, different players with different characteristics, such as different ages or skill levels, may more easily compete with one another on the same team or on different competing teams. The example flag systems further offer configurations that increase the level of skill necessary to pull a flag or separate the flag from its belt or carrier. Increasing the like good of missed flagpoles may create more interesting play and viewing.

[0051] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate an example how the flag pulling difficulty may be adjusted by selecting which end of a flag is connected to our attached to carrier 24 while the other end forms a terminal end of the hanging flag. Flag system 20 comprises a flag carrier 24 and flag units 26-1, 26-2 (and an additional flag unit directly opposite to flag unit 26-1) (the three flag units collectively referred to as flag units 26). The three flag units are suspended along the opposite sides and rear of carrier 24 (flag unit 26-2 hanging along the rear of the belt forming carrier 24, along the back of the player wearing carrier 24). Each of flag units 26 may be identical. In other implementations, particular flag units suspended from carrier 24 may have different characteristics, such as different flag shapes or lengths.

[0052] Flag carrier 24 carries the flag units 26 which generally hang or are suspended from the flag carrier 24 from regions proximate a waist of the player. In some implementations, the flag carrier 24 comprises a belt secured about the waist of the player. In other implementations, the flag carrier 24 may be provided as part of a pair of shorts, pants, shirt or another garment. In some implementations, the flag carrier 24 is directly connected to the flag units. In the illustrated example, the flag carrier 24 supports flag connectors 28-1, 28-2 and a third flag connector directly opposite to flag connector 28-1 (the flag connectors being collectively referred to as flag connectors 28). In the illustrated example, flag carrier 24 comprises a belt, wherein the flag connectors 26 may slide along the belt to facilitate independent repositioning of the flag units 26 along the belt and about the waist of the player.

[0053] Flag units 26 each comprise a flag 30 in the form of a flexible band, strap or flap of one or more materials. FIG. 1 illustrates flag 30-1 having a first hanging shape (an upside down trapezoid) providing the flag unit 26-1 with a first flag unit separation difficulty. FIG. 2 illustrates flag 30-1 illustrates flag 30-1 flipped with respect to flag carrier 24 such that flag 30-1 at a second hanging shape (an upright trapezoid) providing the flag unit 26-1 with a second easier flag unit separation difficulty. Flag 30-1 tapers along at least 50% of its length L which extends from where flag 30-1 is flexibly hanging to a terminal end, the portion of flag 30 most distant from flag carrier 24.

[0054] In FIG. 1, flag 30-1 has a first end portion 32 connected to carrier 24 and extending from and most adjacent to flag carrier 24 to a second end portion 34 providing the distal terminal end of flag 30-1 in the first flag unit separation difficulty state. In FIG. 2, flag 30-1 is reversed, connected to carrier 24 at its end portion 34 such that end portion 32 forms the most distal terminal end of flag 30-1 while end portion 34 extends from and in close proximity to flag carrier 24. Because flag 30-1 tapers to end portion 34, in the state shown FIG. 1, flag 30-1 provides a first surface area for a person to grasp. Because end portion 32 of flag 30-1 serves as a terminal end of flag 30-1 in the state shown in FIG. 2, flag 30-1 provides a second larger surface area for person to grasp, making flag pulling easier as compared to the state shown in FIG. 1. Thus, a user may adjust the flag pulling difficulty of system 20 depending upon his or her preference, skill level, age or the like. For a more difficult flag pull, flag 30-1 may be suspended from carrier 24 in the state shown in FIG. 1. For easier flag pull, flag 30-1 may be flipped and may be suspended or hung from carrier (belt) 24 in the state shown in FIG. 2.

[0055] FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate flag system 120. FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate an example of how the flag pulling difficulty or flag separation difficulty may be adjusted by adjusting the length of the flag hanging from a flag carrier such as a belt. Flag system 120 comprises flag carrier 124 and flag units 126-1, 126-2 (and an additional flag unit directly opposite to flag unit 126-1) (the three flag units collectively referred to as flag units 126). Each of flag units 126 may be identical. In other implementations, particular flag units suspended from carrier 124 may have different characteristics, such as different flag shapes or lengths.

[0056] Flag carrier 124 carries the flag units 126 which generally hang or are suspended from the flag carrier 24 from regions proximate a waist of the player. Flag carrier 12 except that flag carrier 124 comprises flag connectors 128-1, 128-2 (a third flag connector 128 directly opposite to and behind flag carrier 128-1). Flag connectors 128 are specifically configured to permit the respective flags 30 to have different user selectable lengths extending from below carrier 24. In the example illustrated, each of flag connectors 28 is configured to permit their respective flag 130 to be folded over and overlap itself either on an inside, towards the waist of the player wearing carrier 124, or the outside away from the waist of the player wearing carrier 24. In some implementations, flag carrier 128 comprise loops through which an end portion of a belt may pass and overlap itself.

[0057] Flags 130 are each in the form of a flexible band strap or flap of one or more materials. FIG. 3 illustrates flag 30-1 overlapping itself or folded with an overlapping portion 133 such that flag 130-1 has a first hanging length L1 providing the flag unit 126-1 with a first flag unit separation difficulty. FIG. 4 illustrates flag 30-1 without any overlapping or folded portion, extending fully from carrier 124 such that flag 130-1 has a second longer hanging length L2 providing the flag unit 126-1 with a second easier flag unit separation difficulty. In some implementations, flag connectors 128 have loops through which flags 130 may be passed to overlap themselves. Flags 130 may have connectors, such as hook and loop connectors or slots and buttons to secure flags 130 in different overlapping extents or states. Thus, a user may adjust the flag pulling difficulty of system 120 depending upon his or her preference, skill level, age or the like. For a more difficult flag pull, flag 30-1 may be folded over or in an overlapping state as shown in FIG. 1. For easier flag pull, flight 30-1 may be folded over to overlap to a lesser extent or no extent at all so as to have a greater hanging length as shown in FIG. 2.

[0058] FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate flag system 220. FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate an example of how a flag system may be configured to permit a player or user to adjust the flag pulling his or her flag separation difficulty in multiple ways. Flag system 220 comprises flag carrier 224 and flag units 26 (described above). Flag carrier 224 is similar to both of flag carriers 24 and 124 except that flag carrier 224 comprises flag connectors 228-1, 228-2 (and a third flag connector, directly behind flag connector 228-1). Each of flag connectors 228 is similar to flag connectors 28 in that flag connectors 228 permit opposite end portions of a flag, the flag 30-1 to be selectively connected adjacent to carrier 224. Each of flag connectors 228 is similar to flag connectors 128 in that each of flag carriers 228 is configured to permit the length of the flag hanging from the connector 228 or the distance separating the terminal end of the flag from the connector 228 and carrier 224 to be adjusted.

[0059] FIG. 5 illustrates flag system 220 in a more difficult flag pulling or flag separation state, wherein flag 30-1 is in the state similar to that shown in FIG. 1 and wherein flag 30-1 is folded over itself or overlaps itself so as to additionally have a shorter length. FIG. 6 illustrates system 220 in a less difficult flag pulling or flag separation state, wherein flag 30-1 is suspended by connector 228-1 so as to have the shape shown in FIG. 2 and is further suspended from connector 228-1 in an unfolded, fully extended state so as to have the greater length similar to that shown in FIG. 4. As should be appreciated, the extent of overlap shown (as well as FIG. 3) may have a continuum of different extents. As should be appreciated, system 220 offers additional flag pulling difficulty states. For example, flag 30-1 may have the shape shown in FIG. 6 while being folded over or overlapping itself in a fashion similar to that shown in FIG. 5. Conversely, flag 30-1 may have the shape shown in FIG. 1 while being fully extended as shown in FIG. 6.

[0060] FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate example flag system 320. System 320 comprises flag carrier 324 supporting flag connectors 328, and flag units 326-1, 326-2 (and a third flag unit behind unit 326-1). Flag carrier 324 may be similar to leg carriers 24, 124 and 224 that flag carrier 324 may comprise a belt or other garments for supporting flag connector 328.

[0061] Flag connectors 328 are positioned along the belt forming carrier 324. Flag connector 328 are each configured to be releasably connected to a flag unit 326. In some implementations, each of flag connectors 328 is slidably positioned along the length of the belt forming carrier 324. As described hereafter, in some implementations, each of flag connectors 328 may comprise a hollow tube that receives the plug associated with a respective flag unit 326 or may comprise a plug that is received by a hollow tube associated with a respective flag unit 326.

[0062] Flag units 326 are similar to flag units 26 described above except that each of flag units 326 additionally comprise a flag coupler 350. Flag coupler 350 is configured to releasably attach to any one of the flag connectors 328. As described above, in some implementations, flag connector 328 may comprise a hollow tube configured to slidably receive a plug of a flag coupler 350. In some implementations, flag connector 328 may comprise plug that is slidably received than a hollow tube of flag coupler 350. In other implementations, flag connector 328 and flag coupler 350 may have other configurations that provide releasable connection therebetween.

[0063] FIG. 7 illustrates flag 30-1 having a first hanging shape (an upside down trapezoid) providing the flag unit 326-1 with a first flag unit separation difficulty. FIG. 8 illustrates flag 30-1 flipped with respect to flag coupler 350 such that flag 30-1 has a second hanging shape (an upright trapezoid) providing the flag unit 326-1 with a second easier flag unit separation difficulty. Flag 30-1 tapers along at least 50% of its length L which extends from where flag 30-1 is flexibly hanging to a terminal end, the portion of flag 30-1 most distant from flag coupler 350.

[0064] In FIG. 7, flag 30-1 has a first end portion 32 connected to flag coupler 350-1 and extending from and most adjacent to flag coupler 350-1 to a second end portion 34 providing the distal or terminal end of flag 30-1 in the first flag unit separation difficulty state. In FIG. 8, flag 30-1 is reversed, connected to flag coupler 350-1 at its end portion 34 such that end portion 32 forms the most distal terminal end of flag 30-1 while end portion 34 extends from and in close proximity to flag coupler 350-1. Because flag 30-1 tapers to end portion 34, in the state shown FIG. 7, flag 30-1 provides a first surface area for a person to grasp. Because end portion 32 of flag 30-1 forms a terminal end of the flag in the state shown in FIG. 8, flag 30-1 provides a second larger surface area for person to grasp, making flag pulling easier as compared to the state shown in FIG. 1. Thus, a user may adjust the flag pulling difficulty of system 320 depending upon his or her preference, skill level, age or the like. For a more difficult flag pull, flag 30-1 may be suspended from flag coupler 350-1 in the state shown in FIG. 7. For easier flag pull, flag 30-1 may be flipped and may be suspended or hung from flag coupler 350-1 in the state shown in FIG. 8.

[0065] FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate flag system 420. FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate an example of how the flag pulling difficulty or flag separation difficulty may be adjusted by adjusting the length of the flag hanging from a flag coupler. Flag system 420 comprises flag carrier 324 supporting flag connector 328 (both of which are described above) and flag units 426-1, 426-2 (and an additional flag unit directly opposite to flag unit 426-1) (the three flag units collectively referred to as flag units 426). Each of flag units 426 may be identical. In other implementations, particular flag units may have flags with different characteristics, such as different flag shapes or lengths.

[0066] Flags 130 are each in the form of a flexible band strap or flap of one or more materials and are described above. FIG. 9 illustrates flag 130-1 overlapping itself or folded with an overlapping portion 133 such that flag 130-1 has a first hanging length L1 providing the flag unit 126-1 with a first flag unit separation difficulty. FIG. 10 illustrates flag 130-1 illustrates flag 30-1 without any overlapping or folded portion, extending fully from flag coupler 450-1 such that flag 130-1 has a second longer hanging length L2 providing the flag unit 126-1 with a second easier flag unit separation difficulty. In some implementations, flag couplers 450 have loops through which flags 130 may be passed to overlap themselves. Flags 130 may have connectors, such as hook and loop connectors or slots and buttons to secure flags 130 in different overlapping extents or states. Thus, a user may adjust the flag pulling difficulty of system 420 depending upon his or her preference, skill level, age or the like. For a more difficult flag pull, flag 130-1 may be folded over or in an overlapping state as shown in FIG. 9. For easier flag pull, flag 130-1 may fold over to overlap to a lesser extent or not at all so as to have a greater hanging length L2 as shown in FIG. 10.

[0067] FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate flag system 520. FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate an example of how a flag system may be configured to permit a player or user to adjust the flag pulling his or her flag separation difficulty in multiple ways. Flag system 520 comprises flag carrier 324 supporting flag connector 328 (both of which are described above) and flag units 526-1, 526-2 (and an additional flag unit directly opposite to flag unit 526-1) (the three flag units collectively referred to as flag units 526). Each of flag units 526 may be identical. In other implementations, particular flag units may have flags with different characteristics, such as different flag shapes or lengths.

[0068] Flag coupler 550-1 is similar to both of flag couplers 350 and 550 except that flag coupler 550-1 permits opposite end portions of a flag, flag 30-1 to be selectively connected adjacent to flag coupler 550-1. Each of flag couplers 550 is similar to flag couplers 450 in that each of flag couplers 550 is configured to permit the length of the flag hanging from the flag coupler 550 or the distance separating the terminal end of the flag from the plague coupler 550 and carrier 224 to be adjusted.

[0069] FIG. 11 illustrates system 520 in a more difficult flag pulling or flag separation state, wherein flag 30-1 is in the state similar to that shown in FIG. 1 and wherein flag 30-1 is folded over itself or overlaps itself so as to additionally have a shorter length. FIG. 12 illustrates system 5220 in a less difficult flag pulling or flag separation state, wherein flag 30-1 is suspended by flag coupler 350-1 so as to have the shape shown in FIG. 8 and is further suspended from flag coupler 350-1 in an unfolded, fully extended state so as to have the greater length similar to that shown in FIG. 10. As should be appreciated, the extent of overlap shown (as well as FIG. 9) may have a continuum of different extents. As should be appreciated, system 520 offers additional flag pulling difficulty states. For example, flag 30-1 may have the shape shown in FIG. 12 while being folded over or overlapping itself in a fashion similar to that shown in FIG. 11. Conversely, flag 30-1 may have the shape shown in FIG. 7 while being fully extended as shown in FIG. 12.

[0070] FIGS. 13-18 illustrate various example flags for flag systems. FIG. 13 illustrates an example flag 630 which may be employed as one of flags 30, or 130 in the above-described flag systems or may be employed in the flag systems described hereafter. Each of flags 630 is configured to have a hanging length that extend from and beyond a flag coupler to a terminal end, wherein flag 630 has a nonuniform width along the length such that a proximal 50% of the hanging length has a first surface area and the distal 50% of the hanging length has a second surface area at least 20% less than the first surface area. In some implementations, the second surface is at least 30% less than the first surface area. In some implementations, the second surface area of at least 40% less than the first surface area. In some implementations, the second surface area of at least 50% less than the first surface area. In some implementations, flag papers along at least 50% of the hanging length.

[0071] As illustrated in FIGS. 1-12, for purposes of this disclosure, the hanging length refers to the linear distance from the highest point on the hanging flag most distant the terminal end that is free to bend or flex to the terminal end most distant the carrier. In the examples shown in FIG. 1-6 where the flag is directly connected to a flag connector without a flag coupler, the hanging length begins where the flag begins to hang from the flag connector and ends at the lowermost terminal end. The hanging length does not include any portion of the flag that overlaps the flag connector, which wraps about the flag connector, or that is received within the flag connector. The hanging length does not include any portion of flag that overlaps itself but terminates prior to the other even lower end portion of the flag that forms the terminal end. In the examples shown in FIG. 7-12 where the flag is directly connected to and from its flag coupler, the hanging length begins where the flag begins to hang from the flag coupler and ends at the lowermost terminal end. Hanging length does not include any part of the flag that overlaps the flag coupler, which wraps about the flag coupler or that is received within the flag coupler. The hanging length does not include any portion of flag that overlaps itself but terminates prior to the other even lower end portion of the flag that forms the terminal end.

[0072] Flag 630 comprises an elongate flexible band of one or more materials having end portions 632 and 634. As indicated above, flag 630 is configured to have a hanging length that extends from and beyond a flag coupler to a terminal end, wherein flag 630 has a nonuniform width along the length such that a proximal 50% of the hanging length has a first surface area and the distal 50% of the hanging length has a second surface area at least 20% less than the first surface area. In the example illustrated, flag 630 is opposite side edges that taper towards one another in a direction extending from end portion 632 to end portion 634. In the example illustrated, tapering uniform along a majority if not two thirds of the length of flag 630.

[0073] To facilitate its connection to a flag carrier, such as a belt, flag 630 further comprises connection openings 670-1, 670-2 (collectively referred to as connection opening 670) and attachment points 672-1, 72-2, 72-3 (collectively referred to as attachment. 672). Connection opening 670-1 and 670-2 extend through end portions 632 and 634, respectively. Each of connection opening 670 comprises an elongate slit or slot 674 terminating at an enlarged aperture 676. Attachment points 672 comprise buttons or enlarged head projecting from a face of flag 630. Each of the attachment points 672 is configured to pass through either of openings 670 and is further configured to be captured within slit 674 of the particular one of openings 670. In other implementations, faces of end portions 632, 634 may include one of a hook or loop fastener, wherein attachment points 672 are provided by multiple individual patches of the other of the hook or loop fastener or are provided by an elongate continuous patch of the other of the hooker loop fastener.

[0074] In implementations where the flag connector or the flag coupler comprises an elongate oval-shaped loop, end portion 632 may be passed through the opening of the loop and connected to itself at a selected one of attachment points 672 to establish the hanging length of flag 630 and the extent of overlap of end portion 632 with a remainder of the flag 630. In some implementations, opening 670 receive portions of the flag connector or flag coupler to connect flag 62 the flag connector or flag coupler. In some implementations, the flag connector or flag coupler may comprise a loop and an extension extending upwards from the loop, wherein flag 630 is passed through the loop and wherein the opening 670-1, 672-2 receives the extension to securely connect flag 630 to the flag connector or flag coupler. Because flag 630 comprises opening 670 on both of its ends, flag 630 may be connected to the flag connector or flag coupler at a selected one of the ends, similar to the connection shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 or FIGS. 11 and 12. In yet other implementations, flag 630 may omit opening 670-2 and attachment points 672.

[0075] FIG. 14 illustrates an example flag 730. FIG. 14 illustrates a different taper angle for the flag. Flag 730 omits opening 670-2 at its end portion 634 which forms a terminal end of flag 630. Although not illustrated, in some implementations, flag 730 may additionally comprise attachment points 672.

[0076] FIG. 15 illustrates flag 830. FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a flag having a first tapered portion of the hanging length tapering at a first angle and a second tapered portion of the hanging length configured to taper at a second angle different than the first angle. Flag 813 comprises a first portion 874 tapering at a first angle and a second portion 876 tapering at a second different angle. Those remaining components or features of flag 830 which correspond to components or features of flag 730 are numbered similarly.

[0077] FIG. 16 illustrates an example flag 930. Flag 930 has a first portion 974 that tapers and a second portion 976 having a uniform width along its length, narrower than that of portion 974. FIG. 17 illustrates an example flag 1030. Flag 1030 has a first portion 1074 that tapers and a second portion 1076 that has two opposite concave edges, providing flag 1030 with a wider terminal end 634. FIG. 18 illustrates an example flag 1130 having a first portion 1174 that tapers a second portion 1176 having opposing edges a curve inwardly to form narrower terminal end 634.

[0078] FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrate an example flag connector 1228 that may be utilized for any of the flag connectors 328 described above with respect to FIGS. 7-12 or that may be utilized with other flag systems. Flag connector 328 is configured to slidably positioned along a flag carrier, such as a belt 1224 and to maintain its position along the belt 1224 despite experiencing forces during a flag pull. Flag connector 328 is configured to removably connect to a flag coupler, such as the flag coupler 1250 shown in FIG. 21. Flag connector 328 comprises a hollow tube 1300 and belt extension 1302. Hollow tube 1300 has a hollow interior 1306 configured to slidably receive a portion of belt coupler 1250.

[0079] Belt extension 1302 extends upward at an angle oblique to the centerline of interior 1306. Belt extension 1302 comprises a pair of parallel slots 1310-1, 1310-2 (collectively referred to as slots 1310) which are spaced by an intermediate panel or surface 1312. Belt 1224 passes through slot 1310-1, extends across surface 1312 (shown in FIG. 20) and passes through slot 1310-2. As result, belt 1224 is pinched across surface 1312 to inhibit inadvertent sliding of flag connector 1228 along belt 1224 during a flag pull. Said another way, slots 310 assist in ensuring that the flags are properly positioned along the sides of the player (and potentially at the rear of the player) despite repeated flagpoles.

[0080] During repeated flagpoles during a game or competition, the flag connector may sometimes slip, twist, slider bunch when competitors are pulling the flag prior to separation of the flag from the flag carrier. This may result in the flag connector being improperly positioned and may require that the player reposition the flag connector between plays, slowing gameplay. Flag connector 1220 reduces this likelihood. The portion of the flag connector between the pair of parallel slots, surface 1312, frictionally resists inadvertent sliding of the flag connector 1228 along the belt 1224. In some implementations, the surface 1312 of the flag connector 1228 may include teeth 1313 or a roughened surface to further inhibit inadvertent sliding of the flag connector 1228 along the belt 1224 during a flag pull.

[0081] FIG. 21 illustrates an example flag coupler 1250. Flag coupler 1250 connects to a flag, such as any of the flags shown in FIGS. 13-18, and releasably mates or releasably connects to flag connector 1228 to secure the flag to the belt 1224. Flag coupler 1250 comprises flag attachment 1350, plug 1352 and stop surface 1354.

[0082] Flag attachment 1350 comprises a structure configured to be secured to a flag that is to hang from flag attachment 1350. In the example illustrated, flag attachment 1350 comprises a wide elongate loop forming a slot 1356 through which the flag may pass. When used with any of the flags shown in FIG. 13-18, the end portion 632 may be passed through slot 1356, wherein plug 1352 and stop surface 1354 are then passed through slot 670-1. With respect to flag 630, end portion 634 may be passed through slot 1356, wherein plug 1352 and stop surface 1354 are then passed through slot 670-2. In other circumstances, end portion 632 may be passed through slot 1356 with opening 670-1 attached to one of attachment points 672 to establish the length of the flag. In yet other implementations, the flag may be secured to flag coupler 1250 in a permanent fashion or in a releasable fashion by other mechanisms such as clamps, ties, hooks and the like.

[0083] Plug 1352 comprise a tubular body configured to be slidably received within interior 1306 of the hollow tube 1300 of flag connector 1228 as shown in FIGS. 23 and 25. In the example illustrated, plug 1352 has an axial length extending from stop surface 1354 to a terminal end, wherein the axial length is less than the internal axial length of interior 1306 of hollow tube 1300. Plug 1352 has an outer tubular surface 1360 which is dimensioned so as to closely conform with a correspondingly shaped internal surface of interior 1306, providing a tight fit to provide a predetermined resistance to pulling of plug 1352 out of the exterior 1367 of hollow tube 1300. The extent of resistance may be established by the tightness of the fit and the frictional properties of the interior surface of interior 1306 and the exterior surface 1360. The extent of resistance may further be established based upon the length of plug 1352. Although interior 1306 and exterior surface 1360 of plug 1352 are illustrated as having circular cross-sectional shapes (a cylindrical opening and a cylindrical plug), in other implementations, interior 1306 and the exterior surface 1360 of plug 1352 may have other cross-sectional shapes, such as polygon cross-sectional shapes.

[0084] In the example illustrated, plug 1352 has a hollow interior 1362, reducing the cost and weight of coupler 1250. In the example illustrated, the hollow interior contains a plurality of internal ribs 1364 which extend across the hollow interior to brace the one or more walls forming the hollow interior 1362. The ribs 1364 prevent the outer shape of the plug (shaped and configured to tightly fit into the hollow tube in frictional engagement with an interior the hollow tube) from being damaged or deformed in circumstances where the plug 1352 may be accidentally stepped on by the player or another competitor once the flag coupler 1250 (along with the attached flag) is pulled and dropped to the ground. Although ribs 1364 are illustrated as having an X configuration, in other implementations, ribs 1364 may have other configurations. In some implementations, the interior 1362 may alternatively be filled with a foam material or a lattice/cell structure to inhibit accidental deformation of plug 1352.

[0085] Stop surface 1354 comprises at least one surface supported on axial end of plug 1352 and configured to abut an axial rim 1370 (shown in FIG. 19) of the hollow tube 1300 when the plug is fully received within the interior 1306 as shown in FIG. 23. In the example illustrated, stop surface 1354 comprises a continuous ring extending about and outwardly beyond on an axial end of plug 1352 closest to attachment 1350. As shown by FIG. 24, in other implementations, coupler 1250 may alternatively comprise a stop surface 1354 comprising multiple stop surfaces that each partially extend about the exterior 1360. Stop surface 1354 provides tactile indication of when plug 1352 is fully inserted into interior 1306. Stop surface 1354 controls or limits an extent to which plug 1352 may be inserted into interior 1306 of tube 1300.

[0086] As shown by FIG. 22, in some implementations, the exterior surface 1360 of plug 1352 comprises one or more indices or markings 1380 along its outer surface indicating different axial extents to which plug 1352 may be inserted into interior 1306 of tube 1300. As a result, in leagues or competitions, the players or particular players may be instructed to only partially insert their respective plugs 1352 into tubes 1300 to provide a lesser flag pull resistance. For example, a player may insert plug 1352 into interior 1306 until marking 1380 is aligned with the actual end or rim 1370 of tube 1300 for less pulling resistance. In other implementations, such markings 1380 may be omitted.

[0087] In some implementations, the exterior surface 1360 may be provided with a highly visible color or visual appearance that is distinct from the exterior visual appearance of tube 1300. For example, the exterior surface 1367 of tube 1300 may have a first color, black, brown, gray or the like, while the exterior 1360 of plug 1352 has a bright color such as a neon color, orange, yellow, white or red color. The stark contrast is highly visible. As result, a coach or other player may readily visibility identify, from a distance, when the plug 1352 is not fully inserted into tube 1300 and a portion of exterior 1360 is exposed. In such circumstances a coach or other player may notify the player's whose plug is not fully inserted to further insert the plug 1352 into the tube 1300. This may be especially beneficial for younger competitors who may not realize that their flag couplers are not fully inserted, their plugs are not fully inserted, reducing flag pulling resistance and placing them at a competitive disadvantage.

[0088] FIG. 26 illustrates an alternative flag connector 1428 and an alternative cooperating flag coupler 1450. Connector 1428 is identical to connector 1220 except that connector 1420 comprises an axially extending plug 1452 in place of tube 1300. Flag coupler 1450 is identical to flag coupler 1350 except that flag coupler 1450 comprises a hollow tube 1500 in place of plug 1352. As shown by FIG. 26, the flag examples of which are shown in FIG. 13-18) and the connected flag coupler 1450 are releasably connected to flag connector 1428 by positioning plug 1452 into the interior of tube 1500. Separation of the flag from the belt 1224 may be achieved by pulling the flag so as to withdraw tube 1500 from about plug 1452.

[0089] FIGS. 27-29 illustrate an example flag connector 1628 for use with an example flag coupler 1650 (shown in FIGS. 28 and 29). Flag connector 1628 is similar to flag connector 1228 except that flag connector 1628 comprises hollow tubes 1700-1 and 1700-2 (collectively referred to as tubes 1700) in place of hollow tube 1300. Those remaining components of connector 1628 which correspond to components of connector 1228 are numbered similarly.

[0090] Tubes 1700 project from belt extension 1302 and have different characteristics with respect to gripping flag coupler 1350 when flag coupler 1350 is connected to a selected one of tubes 1700. Tubes 1700 provide different flag coupler interfaces that require different flag pull forces and/or different flag pull durations to separate the flag unit (flag coupler and flag) from the flag connector or flag carrier. In the example illustrated, tubes 1700 have different axial lengths. Tube 1700-2 has a greater axial length than tube 1700-1, permitting the plug 1352 of flag coupler 1650 to be received to a greater extent as compared to tube 1700-1.

[0091] Flag coupler 1650 is identical to flag coupler 1250 except that flag coupler 1650 may omit stop surface 1354, permitting plug 1352 to be inserted into the interiors of tubes 1700 to a greater extent, depending upon the axial length of the particular tube 1700. As shown by FIG. 28, plug 1352 of flag coupler 1650 may be fully inserted into interior 1306-1 of tube 1700-1 until the axial end 1380 of plug 1352 abuts the interior axial end 1381-1 of interior 1306-1. As shown by FIG. 29, plug 1352 of flag coupler 1650 may be fully inserted into interior 1306-2 of tube 1700-2 until the axial end 1380 of plug 1352 of flag coupler 1650 abuts the interior axial land 1381-2 of interior 1306-2. Because interior 1306-2 is axially longer than the interior 1306-1, a greater extent of plug 1352 may be received within tube 1700-2 as compared to tube 1700-1. As a result, insertion of plug 1352 into tube 1700-2 provides a greater flag pull resistance as compared to insertion of plug 1352 into tube 1700-1. A player may select to use either of tubes 1700-1 or 1700-2 depending upon the desired degree of flag pull resistance.

[0092] In other implementations, both of tubes 1700 may be concurrently used during play, wherein a first flag with the plug of its flag coupler is received within tube 1700-1 and a second flag with the plug of its flag coupler is concurrently received within tube 1700-2. Various game rules may be established such as downing of a player requires both flags to be pulled or requires at least one of the two flags to be pulled. In some implementations, one of two flags connected to flag connector 1628 may have a different width and/or different length as compared to the other of the two flags connected to the flag connector 1628.

[0093] Although the claims of the present disclosure are generally directed to various systems for waist suspended flags, the present disclosure is additionally directed to the features set forth in the following definitions. [0094] 1. A flag system comprising: [0095] a flag carrier; [0096] a flag unit comprising: [0097] a flag; and [0098] a flag coupler connected to the flag and configured to be releasably connected to the flag carrier, [0099] wherein the flag unit is user reconfigurable between a first flag unit separation difficulty state and a second flag unit separation difficulty state. [0100] 2. The flag system of Definition 1, wherein the flag has a first hanging shape in the first flag unit separation difficulty state and a second hanging shape in the second flag unit separation difficulty state. [0101] 3. The flag system of Definition 2, wherein the flag tapers along at least 50% of its length to its terminal end in the first flag unit separation difficulty state and wherein the flag does not taper along at least 50% of its length to its terminal end in the second flag unit separation difficulty state. [0102] 4. The flag system of Definition 2, wherein the flag has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end hangs distant the flag coupler when the flag unit flag unit is in the first flag unit separation difficulty state and wherein the second end hangs distant the flag coupler when the flag unit is in the second flag unit separation difficulty state. [0103] 5. The flag system of Definition 4, wherein the flag comprises a first opening proximate first end and a second opening proximate the second end. [0104] 6. The flag system of Definition 1, wherein the flag has a first hanging length in the first flag unit separation difficulty state and a second hanging length in the second flag unit separation difficulty state. [0105] 7. The flag system of Definition 6, wherein an upper portion of the flag proximate the flag carrier overlaps itself to a first extent in the first flag unit separation difficulty state and to a second extent, different than the first extent, and the second flag unit separation difficulty state. [0106] 8. The flag system of Definition 7, wherein the flag comprises a plurality of connectors along its length for adjusting an overlap extent of the flag. [0107] 9. The flag system of Definition 1 further comprising a flag connector connected to the flag carrier and configured to releasably connect to the flag coupler. [0108] 10. The flag system of Definition 9, wherein the flag connector is repositionable relative to the flag carrier. [0109] 11. The flag system of Definition 10, wherein the flag carrier comprises a belt and when the flag connector is slidable along the belt. [0110] 12. The flag system of Definition 11, wherein the flag connector comprises a pair of parallel slots through which the belt passes. [0111] 13. The flag system of Definition 11, wherein the flag connector comprises one of a hollow tube and a plug, wherein the flag coupler comprise the other of the hollow tube and the plug, wherein the plug is slidably received within the hollow tube and wherein the plug comprises at least one stop surface configured to abut an axial rim the hollow tube when the plug is fully received within the hollow tube. [0112] 14. The flag system of Definition 13, wherein the plug comprises a second hollow tube having internal ribs. [0113] 15. The flag system of Definition 13, wherein an exterior of the hollow tube has a first visual appearance and wherein an exterior of the plug has a second visual appearance different than the first visual appearance. [0114] 16. The flag system of Definition 15, wherein the first visual appearance comprises a first color and wherein the second visual appearance comprises a second color different than the first color. [0115] 17. The flag system of Definition 16, wherein the second color is selected from a group of colors consisting of a neon color, orange, yellow, white and red. [0116] 18. The flag system of Definition 13, wherein the hollow tube has a first internal axial length and wherein the plug has a second axial length less than the first internal axial length. [0117] 19. The flag system of Definition 18 further comprising a second flag unit identical to the flag unit except that the plug has a third axial length different than the first axial length. [0118] 20. The flag system of Definition 18, wherein an exterior surface of the plug comprises spaced indicia along its axial length indicating different extents to which the plug is inserted into the hollow tube. [0119] 21. The flag system of Definition 13, wherein the plug comprises a tube insertion portion and wherein the at least one stop surface projects outwardly beyond the tube insertion portion to engage a rim of the hollow tube in response to the tube insertion portion being fully received within the hollow tube. [0120] 22. The flag system of Definition 21, wherein the at least one stop surface comprises a ring encircling a longitudinal axis of the tube insertion portion on an axial end of the tube insertion portion. [0121] 23. The flag system of Definition 22, wherein the flag coupler comprises a slot through which the flag passes. [0122] 24. The flag system of Definition 23, wherein the flag connector comprises a first portion having a pair of slots through which the belt extends, and a second portion angled away from the first portion, the second portion configured to releasably connect to the flag coupler. [0123] 25. The flag system of any of Definitions 13-24, wherein the flag connector comprises the hollow tube and wherein the flag coupler comprises the plug. [0124] 26. The flag system of Definition 11, wherein the flag connector comprises a first flag coupler interface and a second flag coupler interface, the first flag coupler interface providing the first flag unit separation difficulty state when connected to the flag coupler and the second flag coupler interface providing the second flag unit separation difficulty state and connected to the flag coupler, the first flag coupler interface and the second flag coupler interface comprising one of a hollow tube and a plug, wherein the flag coupler comprise the other of the hollow tube and the plug. [0125] 27. A flag system comprising: [0126] a flag carrier; [0127] a flag unit comprising: [0128] a flag; and [0129] a flag coupler connected to the flag and configured to be releasably connected to the flag carrier, [0130] wherein the flag comprises a band having a hanging length extending from and projecting beyond the flag coupler to a terminal end, and a nonuniform width along the length, wherein a proximal 50 percent of the length has a first surface area and wherein a distal 50 percent of the length has a second surface area at least 20% less than the first surface area. [0131] 28. The flag system of Definition 27, wherein the second surface area is at least 30% less than the first surface area. [0132] 29. The flag system of Definition 27, wherein the second surface area is at least 40% less than the first surface area. [0133] 30. The flag system of Definition 27, wherein the second surface area is at least 50% less than the first surface area. [0134] 31. The flag system of Definition 27, wherein the flag tapers along at least 50% of the hanging length. [0135] 32. The flag system of Definition 27, wherein the flag comprises a first tapered portion of the length tapering at a first angle and a second tapered portion of the hanging length tapering at a second angle different than the first angle. [0136] 33. The flag system of Definition 27 further comprising a flag connector carried by the flag carrier, wherein the flag carrier comprises a belt and when the flag connector is slidable along the belt. [0137] 34. The flag system of Definition 33, wherein the flag connector comprises a pair of parallel slots through which the belt passes. [0138] 35. The flag system of Definition 33, wherein the flag connector comprises one of a hollow tube and a plug, wherein the flag coupler comprise the other of the hollow tube and the plug, wherein the plug is slidably received within the hollow tube and wherein the plug comprises at least one stop surface configured to abut an axial rim the hollow tube when the plug is fully received within the hollow tube. [0139] 36. The flag system of Definition 35, wherein the plug comprises a second hollow tube having internal ribs. [0140] 37. The flag system of Definition 35, wherein an exterior of the hollow tube has a first visual appearance and wherein an exterior of the plug has a second visual appearance different than the first visual appearance. [0141] 38. The flag system of Definition 37, wherein the first visual appearance comprises a first color and wherein the second visual appearance comprises a second color different than the first color. [0142] 39. The flag system of Definition 38, wherein the second color is selected from a group of colors consisting of a neon color, orange, yellow, white and red. [0143] 40. The flag system of Definition 35, wherein the hollow tube has a first internal axial length and wherein the plug has a second axial length less than the first internal axial length. [0144] 41. The flag system of Definition 40 further comprising a second flag unit identical to the flag unit except that the plug has a third axial length different than the first axial length. [0145] 42. The flag system of Definition 35, wherein an exterior surface of the plug comprises spaced indicia along its axial length indicating different extents to which the plug is inserted into the hollow tube. [0146] 43. The flag system of Definition 35, wherein the plug comprises a tube insertion portion and wherein the at least one stop surface projects outwardly beyond the tube insertion portion to engage a rim of the hollow tube in response to the tube insertion portion being fully received within the hollow tube. [0147] 44. The flag system of Definition 43, wherein the at least one stop surface comprises a ring encircling a longitudinal axis of the tube insertion portion on an axial end of the tube insertion portion. [0148] 45. The flag system of Definition 44, wherein the flag coupler comprises a slot through which the flag passes. [0149] 46. The flag system of Definition 45, wherein the flag connector comprises a first portion having a pair of slots through which the belt extends, and a second portion angled away from the first portion, the second portion configured to releasably connect to the flag coupler. [0150] 47. The flag system of any of Definitions 35-46, wherein the flag connector comprises the hollow tube and wherein the flag coupler comprises the plug. [0151] 48. The flag system of Definition 33, wherein the flag connector comprises a first flag coupler interface and a second flag coupler interface, the first flag coupler interface providing the first flag unit separation difficulty state when connected to the flag coupler and the second flag coupler interface providing the second flag unit separation difficulty state when connected to the flag coupler, the first flag coupler interface and the second flag coupler interface comprising one of a hollow tube and a plug, wherein the flag coupler comprise the other of the hollow tube and the plug. [0152] 49. A flag system comprising: [0153] a flag carrier comprising a belt; and [0154] a flag connector comprising a pair of parallel slots through which the belt passes, the flag connector configured to be releasably connected to a flag. [0155] 50. The flag system of Definition 49 further comprising a flag coupler for connecting a flag to the flag connector, wherein the flag connector comprises one of a hollow tube and a plug, wherein the flag coupler comprise the other of the hollow tube and the plug, wherein the plug is slidably received within the hollow tube and wherein the plug comprises at least one stop surface configured to abut an axial rim the hollow tube when the plug is fully received within the hollow tube. [0156] 51. The flag system of Definition 50, wherein the plug comprises a second hollow tube having internal ribs. [0157] 52. The flag system of Definition 50, wherein an exterior of the hollow tube has a first visual appearance and wherein an exterior of the plug has a second visual appearance different than the first visual appearance. [0158] 53. The flag system of Definition 52, wherein the first visual appearance comprises a first color and wherein the second visual appearance comprises a second color different than the first color. [0159] 54. The flag system of Definition 53, wherein the second color is selected from a group of colors consisting of a neon color, orange, yellow, white and red. [0160] 55. The flag system of Definition 50, wherein the hollow tube has a first internal axial length and wherein the plug has a second axial length less than the first internal axial length. [0161] 56. The flag system of Definition 55 further comprising a second flag unit identical to the flag unit except that the plug has a third axial length different than the first axial length. [0162] 57. The flag system of Definition 55, wherein an exterior surface of the plug comprises spaced indicia along its axial length indicating different extents to which the plug is inserted into the hollow tube. [0163] 58. The flag system of Definition 50, wherein the plug comprises a tube insertion portion and wherein the at least one stop surface projects outwardly beyond the tube insertion portion to engage a rim of the hollow tube in response to the tube insertion portion being fully received within the hollow tube. [0164] 59. The flag system of Definition 58, wherein the at least one stop surface comprises a ring encircling a longitudinal axis of the tube insertion portion on an axial end of the tube insertion portion. [0165] 60. A flag system comprising: [0166] a flag carrier; [0167] a flag unit comprising: [0168] a flag; and [0169] a flag coupler connected to the flag and configured to be releasably connected to the flag carrier, [0170] wherein the flag connector comprises one of a hollow tube and a plug, wherein the flag coupler comprise the other of the hollow tube and the plug, wherein the plug is slidably received within the hollow tube and wherein the plug comprises at least one stop surface configured to abut an axial rim the hollow tube when the plug is fully received within the hollow tube. [0171] 61. The flag system of Definition 60, wherein the plug comprises a second hollow tube having internal ribs. [0172] 62. The flag system of Definition 60, wherein an exterior of the hollow tube has a first visual appearance and wherein an exterior of the plug has a second visual appearance different than the first visual appearance. [0173] 63. The flag system of Definition 62, wherein the first visual appearance comprises a first color and wherein the second visual appearance comprises a second color different than the first color. [0174] 64. The flag system of Definition 63, wherein the second color is selected from a group of colors consisting of a neon color, orange, yellow, white and red. [0175] 65. The flag system of Definition 60, wherein the hollow tube has a first internal axial length and wherein the plug has a second axial length less than the first internal axial length. [0176] 66. The flag system of Definition 65 further comprising a second flag unit identical to the flag unit except that the plug has a third axial length different than the first axial length. [0177] 67. The flag system of Definition 65, wherein an exterior surface of the plug comprises spaced indicia along its axial length indicating different extents to which the plug is inserted into the hollow tube. [0178] 68. The flag system of Definition 60, wherein the plug comprises a tube insertion portion and wherein the at least one stop surface projects outwardly beyond the tube insertion portion to engage a rim of the hollow tube in response to the tube insertion portion being fully received within the hollow tube. [0179] 69. The flag system of Definition 68, wherein the at least one stop surface comprises a ring encircling a longitudinal axis of the tube insertion portion on an axial end of the tube insertion portion.

[0180] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to example implementations, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the claimed subject matter. For example, although different example implementations may have been described as including features providing benefits, it is contemplated that the described features may be interchanged with one another or alternatively be combined with one another in the described example implementations or in other alternative implementations. Because the technology of the present disclosure is relatively complex, not all changes in the technology are foreseeable. The present disclosure described with reference to the example implementations and set forth in the following claims is manifestly intended to be as broad as possible. For example, unless specifically otherwise noted, the claims reciting a single particular element also encompass a plurality of such particular elements. The terms first, second, third and so on in the claims merely distinguish different elements and, unless otherwise stated, are not to be specifically associated with a particular order or particular numbering of elements in the disclosure.