RACKETS, PADDLES, AND RELATED METHODS

Abstract

A hand-mounted sport equipment having a backing plate having a body with a perimeter and at least one strap secured to at least one anchoring point coupled to a frame having a body defining a head with a hitting surface or a blade having a hitting surface; and wherein a holding space is defined between the backing plate and the at least one strap for receiving a hand of a player. The same player can use a second similar hand-mounted sport equipment with the second hand to then hit a ball or a shuttlecock with either the first hand-mounted sport equipment or the second hand-mounted sport equipment.

Claims

1. A hand-mounted sport equipment comprising: a backing plate having a body with a body wall and a perimeter and a hand restraint structure secured to the body wall; and a frame coupled to the backing plate, the frame comprising a body defining a head with a hitting surface or a blade having a hitting surface; a perimeter securement band or mounting brackets securing the frame to the backing plate; and a holding space defined by the hand restraint structure for receiving a hand.

2. The hand-mounted sport equipment of claim 1, wherein the hand restraint structure is a glove-like retainer.

3. The hand-mounted sport equipment of claim 1, wherein the hand restraint structure has a body a central portion and a plurality of connector extensions extending from the central portion.

4. The hand-mounted sport equipment of claim 3, wherein the hand restraint structure is made from a neoprene material or a mesh material.

5. The hand-mounted sport equipment of claim 4, wherein the hand restraint structure has a strip of hook fastener attached to one of the plurality of connector extensions.

6. The hand-mounted sport equipment of claim 5, wherein the hand restraint structure has a strip of loop fastener attached to one of the plurality of connector extensions without the strip of hook fastener.

7. The hand-mounted sport equipment of claim 1, wherein the head is strung with a string in a string pattern.

8. The hand-mounted sport equipment of claim 1, wherein the frame is a pickleball paddle.

9. The hand-mounted sport equipment of claim 1, wherein the body of the backing plate has a body wall and the perimeter has a perimeter wall that together define a frame receiving space.

10. The hand-mounted sport equipment of claim 9, wherein the frame is located in the frame receiving space and the perimeter wall covering at least part of a perimeter of the frame.

11. The hand-mounted sport equipment of claim 10, further comprising a raised hump on the body wall of the backing plate.

12. A hand retainer for use with a hand-mounted sport equipment comprising: a body with a central portion having a lengthwise axis and defining an A lateral side and a B lateral side; an A connector extension extending from the central portion towards the A lateral side; a B connector extension extending from the central portion towards B lateral side; and a hook and loop fastener system incorporated with the A connector extension and B connector extension.

13. The hand retainer of claim 12, wherein the A connector extension is a first A connector extension and further comprising a second A connector extension and a gap between the first and second A connector extensions and wherein the B connector extension is a first B connector extension and further comprising a second B connector extension and a gap between the first and second B connector extensions.

14. A method of playing a hitting sport comprising: placing a left hand into a holding space of a first hand-mounted sport frame comprising a backing plate and a frame attached to the backing plate; placing a right hand into a holding space of a second hand-mounted sport frame comprising a backing plate and a frame attached to the backing plate; hitting a ball or a shuttlecock with either the first hand-mounted sport frame or the second hand-mounted sport equipment.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising adjusting the holding space of the first hand-mounted sport frame before placing the left hand into the holding space.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising adjusting the holding space of the second hand-mounted sport frame before placing the right hand into the holding space.

17. The method of claim 14, further comprising placing a perimeter securement band around a perimeter of the first hand-mounted sport frame.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] These and other features and advantages of the present devices, systems, and methods will become appreciated as the same becomes better understood with reference to the specification, claims and appended drawings wherein:

[0017] FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic perspective views of a pair of hand-mounted sport frames of a hand-mounted sport equipment provided in accordance with aspects of the invention.

[0018] FIG. 1C is a schematic stick figure of a player having a hand-mounted sport frame in accordance with aspects of the invention on each of the player's two hands.

[0019] FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic perspective views of the hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 1A and 1B, viewed from different perspectives.

[0020] FIGS. 3A-3B and 4A-4B are additional perspective views of hand-mounted sport frames in accordance with still further aspects of the invention.

[0021] FIGS. 5A and 5B are schematic perspective views of alternative hand-mounted sport frames in accordance with still further aspects of the invention, each with mounting brackets for coupling a frame to a backing plate.

[0022] FIGS. 6A and 6B are schematic perspective views of the hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 5A and 5B, showing the backside of the two backing plates.

[0023] FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic perspective views of alternative hand-mounted sport frames in accordance with still further aspects of the invention, wherein mounting brackets are used to couple frames to backing plates and wherein the frames have strings with string patterns.

[0024] FIGS. 8A and 8B are schematic perspective views of the hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 7A and 7B, showing the backside of the two backing plates.

[0025] FIGS. 9A and 9B are schematic perspective views of alternative hand-mounted sport frames in accordance with still further aspects of the invention, wherein mounting brackets are used to couple frames with solid hitting surfaces to backing plates.

[0026] FIGS. 10A and 10B are schematic perspective views of the hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 9A and 9B, showing the backside of the backing plates.

[0027] FIGS. 11A and 11B are schematic perspective views of alternative hand-mounted sport frames in accordance with still further aspects of the invention, with a more secured configuration that deters separation between the respective frame and backing plate.

[0028] FIGS. 12A and 12B are schematic perspective views of the hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 11A and 11B, showing the backside of the backing plates.

[0029] FIGS. 13A and 13B are schematic rear exploded views of two alternative hand-mounted sport frames in accordance with further aspects of the invention, in which a string pattern is strung directly to the each of the two frames.

[0030] FIG. 13C shows a schematic rear assembled perspective views of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 13A and 13B.

[0031] FIG. 13D shows a schematic front assembled perspective view of one of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 13A and 13B.

[0032] FIGS. 14A and 14B are schematic rear exploded views of two alternative hand-mounted sport frames in accordance with further aspects of the invention, in which each sport frame comprises a paddle and a backing plate.

[0033] FIG. 14C shows a schematic rear assembled perspective views of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 14A and 14B.

[0034] FIG. 14D shows a schematic front assembled perspective view of one of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 14A and 14B.

[0035] FIGS. 15A and 15B are schematic rear exploded views of two alternative hand-mounted sport frames in accordance with further aspects of the invention, in which each sport frame comprises a frame with a string pattern and a backing plate with a holding space for a hand.

[0036] FIG. 15C shows a schematic rear assembled perspective views of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 15A and 15B.

[0037] FIG. 15D shows a schematic front assembled perspective view of one of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 15A and 15B.

[0038] FIGS. 16A and 16B are schematic rear exploded views of two alternative hand-mounted sport frames in accordance with further aspects of the invention, in which each sport frame comprises a paddle or blade type frame attachable to a backing plate with a holding space for a hand.

[0039] FIG. 16C shows a schematic rear assembled perspective views of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 16A and 16B.

[0040] FIG. 16D shows a schematic front assembled perspective view of one of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 16A and 16B.

[0041] FIGS. 17A and 17B are schematic rear exploded views of two alternative hand-mounted sport frames in accordance with still further aspects of the invention, in which each sport frame comprises a backing plate attachable to a frame and the backing plate having a hand restraint structure with a holding space for a hand.

[0042] FIG. 17C shows a schematic rear assembled perspective view of one of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 17A and 17B.

[0043] FIG. 17D shows a schematic front assembled perspective view of one of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 17A and 17B.

[0044] FIG. 18 is a plan view of a hand restraint structure in the form of a glove-like retainer having hook and loop fasteners.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of the presently preferred embodiments of hand-mounted ball or shuttlecock hitting frames provided in accordance with aspects of the present devices, systems, and methods and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present devices, systems, and methods may be constructed or utilized. The description sets forth the features and the steps for constructing and using the embodiments of the present devices, systems, and methods in connection with the illustrated embodiments. It is to be understood, however, that the same or equivalent functions and structures may be accomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. As denoted elsewhere herein, like element numbers are intended to indicate like or similar elements or features.

[0046] Descriptions of technical features or aspects of an exemplary configuration of the disclosure should typically be considered as available and applicable to other similar features or aspects in another exemplary configuration of the disclosure. Accordingly, technical features described herein according to one exemplary configuration of the disclosure may be applicable to other exemplary configurations of the disclosure, and thus duplicative descriptions may be omitted herein.

[0047] With reference now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, a hand-mounted sport equipment (HMSE) is shown 90. The hand-mounted sport equipment comprises a first and a second hand-mounted ball or shuttlecock hitting frames, which are generally designated 100 and 110, respectively. Each hand-mounted ball or shuttlecock hitting frame, or generally referred to as hand-mounted sport frame, comprises a backing plate 120 and a frame 122. The backing plate 120 acts as a retainer to retain a variety of frame types for playing hitting games, such as tennis, pickleball, and ping pong. The first and second hand-mounted sport frames (HMSFs) 100, 110 are configured to be worn on a player's two hands, i.e., one on each hand, so that the player can hit a ball or a shuttlecock with either hand or either hand-mounted sport frame, as further discussed below.

[0048] The first and second HMSFs 100, 110 in accordance with aspects of the present invention allow a player to hit a ball or a shuttlecock with both hands during play, albeit one at a time with which hand to hit depending on the ball or the shuttlecock location relative to the player when the player hits it. Of course, a player may choose to play using only one of the hand-mounted sport frames instead of one on each of the two hands, although the HMSEs and HMSFs in accordance with aspects of the invention are conducive to playing with both hands. Thus, as used herein, a hand-mounted sport equipment can have a single hand-mounted sport frame or a pair of hand-mounted sport frames, and each HMSF comprises a backing plate and a frame, which can have a string pattern or a solid hitting blade.

[0049] As the two hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 are generally similar, other than perhaps contours and strap arrangements specific for a specific hand, discussions for a first hand-mounted sport frame are applicable to the second HMSF of the pair of HMSFs, unless the context indicates otherwise. For example, a player may choose to use one HMSF with a string pattern and another HMSF with a solid blade hitting surface.

[0050] In an example, the backing plate 120 has a body 121 with a body wall 123 that, in the present embodiment, is generally planar and has a hand restraint structure 124 for securing a player's hand to the backing plate 120. In the example shown, the hand restraint structure or hand retainer is a strap, which can be adjustable. In other examples, the hand restraint structure can be a glove or a glove-like structure made of a pliable material, such as mesh, synthetic, neoprene, and the like. If the hand restraint structure 124 is a glove or a glove-like structure, it can be stitched to a backing plate, glued or bonded to the backing plate, or fastened to the backing plate, such as by using a hook and loop fastener. In some example, the glove or glove-like structure can include an adjustable strap to adjust the opening size for use by different hand-sized users. For example, a hook and loop fastening system can be included with the hand restraint structure.

[0051] The glove or glove-like structure in accordance with aspects of the invention can have a front and a back glove material or materials in both the palm area and the finger area or have the back glove material only and the front of the palm can rest directly against the body wall 123 of the backing plate 120. The finger parts of the finger area can be full finger parts to cover all of the fingers or can be shortened to expose parts of the fingers, such as to expose the finger tips. In some examples, fewer than five finger parts or finger covers of the glove structure are used such that one or more of the fingers can be completely exposed. Where a strap is used as the hand retainer 124, at least one strap 131 may be used with two or more being more preferred.

[0052] In one example, the backing plate 120 can incorporate raised or arcuate surfaces forming a support contour for the player's palm to rest against when placing the hand inside the hand restrain structure 124 of the hand-mounted sport frame. The backing plate 120 can be made from a polymer, a fibrous material, such as fiberglass or carbon fiber, graphite, a strong or hard plastic, or combinations thereof, preferably with little or no flexing to form a solid mating surface for the hand, as further discussed below. In some examples, the backing plate 120 may be made from a light weight metal material or a combination of metal and non-metal materials.

[0053] In an example, the hand restrain structure 124 is at least one strap for securing a player's hand to the backing plate 120 of the hand-mounted sport frame or HMSF 100. The at least one strap 131 of the present hand restraint structure 124, can be positioned closer to the hand-mounted sport frame bottom or lower end 125 than the top or upper end 127. The strap 131 can embody a hook and loop type fastener. The strap 131 can be anchored to the backing plate 120 via two spaced apart anchoring points 128. The strap can project through the two spaced apart anchoring points 128 and then secured to one another using the hook and loop fastener system incorporated with the strap 131.

[0054] In some examples, the strap can have two strap sections with one strap section secured to a first anchoring point 128 and the second strap section secured to a second anchoring point and then the two strap sections secured to one another via a hook and loop fastener system. Alternatively, the single length strap can snake through the two spaced apart anchoring points and then fastened on itself in a continuous loop, using a hook and loop fastener system. Use of the strap 131 with an appropriately sized length can allow the user to adjust the strap and provide a gap or space, i.e., a holding space 130, for the player's hand to slide into.

[0055] The first and second anchoring points 128 can be buckles secured to the backing plate 120. Alternatively, the first and second anchoring points 128 can be one or more slots at each point formed in the body wall 123 of the backing plate 120 for snaking the strap around to secure the strap or strap sections to the backing plate. The strap 131 is arranged to support, such as to hold in, secure in, or tie in, the player's hand at a location near the back side of the hand proximate the wrist. Said differently, the space between the at least one strap and the backing plate 120 defines a hand holding space 130 (FIG. 1B) for retaining a player's hand. Preferably, two or more straps are used for retaining two or more locations of a player's hand.

[0056] In an example, the backing plate 120 comprises one or more finger anchors or grip points (not shown) so that when the hand is located in the holding space 130 of the hand-mounted sport frame and held by the at least one strap 131, the fingers of the hand can grip the one or more finger anchors or grip points formed on the surface of the body wall 123 to firmly grip the hand-mounted sport frame. The finger anchors or grip points on the body wall 123 can embody gaps, raised pockets, or lever points for the fingers to grip. Alternatively or additionally, a raised dome may be incorporated on the body wall 123 for the palm to cup against while being held by one or more straps. In an alternative example, a second strap 132, similar to the first strap 131, can be provided with the backing plate 120, via a second set of anchoring points 128. The second strap 132 can have the same dimension as the first strap 131 or, as shown, can have a shorter length.

[0057] In an example, the length of the two straps 131, 132 between the anchoring points 128 can be adjusted to fit the user's hand, when sliding the hand into the holding space 130 (FIG. 1B). The user then partially cups the hand and flexes the fingers to wedge the hand within the holding space to secure the hand to the hand-mounted sport frame during play. In some examples, tension can be applied to the hand by incorporating a section or sections of elastic bands with one or both straps 131, 132. This allows the user to adjust the gap of the holding space 130 and then relying on the elastic bands to tension around the hand. In other examples, a raised hump or surface is incorporated with the body wall 123 to allow the palm to rest thereagainst when the palm is located inside the holding space and held by the strap or straps.

[0058] In an example, the backing plate 120 can have an outer perimeter 129 that matches at least part of the outer perimeter 172 of the frame 122, which is a framed perimeter in the present embodiment with a hollow center for stringing a string pattern. In an alternative example, as shown, the outer perimeter 129 of the backing plate 120 can be dissimilar so that open gaps or pockets can be provided between the two perimeters 129, 172. The open gaps or pockets due to the differences in outer perimeters allow less materials to be used to form the backing plate and provide access to the space between the backing plate 120 and the frame 122, such as for assembly and disassembly of the frame and the backing plate. In still other examples, as further discussed below, the backing plate 120 can have a larger perimeter wall than the perimeter of the frame 122. The perimeter can have a perimeter wall, such as a lip, and the perimeter wall and the body wall 123 can define a frame receiving space for receiving the frame.

[0059] FIG. 1C is a schematic stick-figure view of a player 150 having two hands 152, 154 with each hand having a hand-mounted sport frame secured thereto. For example, as shown, the right hand 152 has the first hand-mounted sport frame 100 secured thereto and the left hand 154 has the second hand-mounted sport frame 110 secured thereto, such as by sliding the respective hand into the respective holding space 130. The player can now play a racket sport, such as tennis, racquetball, badminton, or pickleball, and hitting the ball or the shuttlecock with either hand or either hand-mounted sport frame. Less preferably, the player can play using only a single hand-mounted sport frame, such as only on the player's dominant hand, or on the player's offhand in order to improve dexterity of the offhand.

[0060] FIGS. 2A and 2B show a hand-mounted sport equipment or HMSE 90 comprising a pair of first and second hand-mounted sport frames or HMSFs 100, 110. The present hand-mounted sport frames can be similar to the hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 1A and 1B. FIG. 2B shows a front view of the first hand-mounted sport frame 100, showing a front perspective view of the frame 122 mounted to the backing plate 120 via one or more fasteners 132, such as screws, at one or more attachment points 134. Each attachment point 134 can include a spacer 138 to space the frame and the backing plate 120. Each spacer can embody a hollow cylinder for accommodating a threaded screw. As shown, three attachment points 134 are utilized with three fasteners 132. However, fewer, or greater number of attachment points can be incorporated. In other examples, the one or more attachment points for securing the frame to the backing plate can be practiced without the spacer 138. By utilizing fasteners 132, the frame 122 can be removed and be replaced with a different frame, such as for replacing the frame for a different racket or for exchanging the racket to a blade-type frame, such as a paddle, or vice-versa.

[0061] As shown, the frame 122 can have a body defining a head, similar to a tennis racket or a badminton racket. In a preferred embodiment, the frame 122 is utilized without a shaft-type handle and without a grip at an end of the handle. Foreseeably, a handle, or a structure resembling a handle, can extend from the head to add weight but not necessary. Thus, the frame 122 used with the present hand-mounted sport frame can be practiced without a handle. Instead, as discussed above, a user can strap on the hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 directly in the manner discussed above and elsewhere herein, using hand restraints without any shaft-type handles.

[0062] As shown, the frame 122 is a wooden frame, similar to a tennis racquet head, comprising a plurality of grommets for stringing the frame with a string, such as a tennis string or a badminton string, in a string pattern 230. The string pattern 230 can comprise mains or main strings, also known as lengthwise parallel strings, and cross strings, which are parallel strings that are angled to the main strings. Other known prior art string patterns may be used. The string tension, the shape of the frame, the size of the frame, the particular string pattern, and the frame material are not limited and can vary. For example, the string gauge, the main and cross string patterns, and the string tension can vary depending on the sport, such as for tennis, for racquetball, for pickleball, and for badminton. The wound string, in a single string pattern or two separate strings in main and cross patterns, defines a hitting surface for hitting a ball of a shuttlecock. Angled or non-traditional orthogonal mains and crosses as string patterns are contemplated.

[0063] In the example shown, the frame is a wood frame. As such, holes can be drilled through the wooden frame and fasteners are used to secure or couple the frame to the backing plate. In other examples, the frame is a composite or a metal frame. The metal frame can have holes drilled through the frame, or wires used to form attachment points and fasteners used to secure the frame to the backing plate. If the frame is a composite frame, such as a graphite, then mounting brackets or clips may be used to secure or couple the frame to the backing plate, as further discussed below. In still other examples, a perimeter securement band is used to secure a frame to a backing plate without using fasteners or brackets.

[0064] FIGS. 3A and 3B and FIGS. 4A and 4B are additional views of first and second hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110, which can be similar to those discussed elsewhere herein.

[0065] FIGS. 5A and 5B show a hand-mounted sport equipment or HMSE 90 comprising first and second hand-mounted sport frames or HMSFs 100, 110 in accordance with further aspects of the invention. As shown, each hand-mounted sport frame comprises a frame 122 having a body defining a head, similar to a ping pong paddle, a pickleball paddle, or other paddle or blade sport equipment. As such, the frame of the present embodiment has a solid blade, without a framed perimeter with a hollow center for accommodating strings, like that of FIGS. 1A, 1B and 2A-4B. The frame 122 of the present blade configuration can be made from wood, a composite, a metal material, or combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the frame 122 is utilized without a shaft-type handle and without a grip at an end of the handle. Foreseeably, a handle, or a structure resembling a handle, can extend from the head to add weight but not necessary as weight can be added to the backing plate. A user can strap on the hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 of the present embodiment in the manner discussed above, using straps or other hand restraint structures discussed herein.

[0066] In the example shown, a sponge layer 160 is applied to a first side of the frame 122 of the hand-mounted sport frame 100, facing away from the backing plate, and then a rubber mat 162 is applied over the sponge layer 160. Alternatively, both sides of the frame 122 can have a sponge layer, a rubber mat, or both.

[0067] The frame 122 can resemble a ping pong paddle. In some examples, the frame 122 has a generally circular blade. However, the frame can embody other shapes, and preferably has a shape that meets ping pong regulations. Additionally, while only a sponge layer 160 and a rubber mat 162 are shown used with the first side of the frame 122, other layers can be included, or different layers can be included. For example, the sponge layer can be omitted. In another example, instead of a rubber mat, a sand face layer, or sandpaper layer, can be applied to the frame. The rubber mat 162, or the alternative layer, defines a hitting surface for hitting a ball, such as a ping pong ball or a pickleball.

[0068] A plurality of mounting brackets 170 can be seen gripping the perimeter 172 of the frame 122. As further discussed below, the mounting brackets 170 can be located on the backing plate and then parts of each mounting bracket bearing on the frame 122 to secure or couple the frame to the backing plate without drilling the frame. In the example shown, three mounting brackets 170 are utilized that spaced from one another. However, there can be more than or less than three mounting brackets. By utilizing mounting brackets 170, the frame 122 can be removed and be replaced with a different frame, such as for replacing the frame for a different racket or for exchanging the racket to a paddle, or vice-versa.

[0069] FIGS. 6A and 6B show rear views of the two hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 of FIGS. 5A and 5B, showing the backing plates 120 of the two hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110. The backing plates can be similar to backing plates discussed elsewhere herein, and can include hand restraint structures such as straps, glove-like hand retainers, or combinations thereof. As shown, three mounting brackets 170 are provided with each backing plate 120. Each mounting bracket 170 comprises a hook end or clamp end 178 for wrapping around or for gripping the perimeter of the frame 122 to secure or couple the frame to the backing plate 120. Each mounting bracket 170 can also comprise an activator 180. In an example, the activator can be a lock clasp buckle type having a flip-able handle for adjusting the tension or state of the clamp end 178 on the perimeter of the frame 122. In other examples, the activator 180 can have an adjustable screw for adjusting the tension or state of the clamp end 178.

[0070] One mounting bracket can be centrally located at the top and two mounting brackets can be spaced out closer to the bottom of the perimeter. When four mounting brackets are used, two mounting brackets can be spaced out closer to the top of the perimeter, and two mounting brackets can be spaced out closer to the bottom of the perimeter. Other clamping locations are contemplated. The body wall of the backing plate 120 can attach to the respective frame without spacers. As shown, the body wall contacts the blade-type frame. One or more optional cut-out sections 127 can be provided on the body wall 123 to expose the blade from the backing plate 120 perspective. The cut-out sections can be utilized to push or separate the frame from the backing plate during assembly and disassembly.

[0071] FIGS. 7A-7B are front views showing the strings of first and second hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 in accordance with further aspects of the invention and wherein mounting brackets 170 are used to hold the frame 122 to the respective backing plate 120. The mounting brackets 170 can be similar to the mounting brackets of FIGS. 6A and 6B, and the frames 122, which can be rackets having strings, can be similar to the frames of FIGS. 2A and 2B.

[0072] FIGS. 8A-8B are rear or back side views of the first and second hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 of FIGS. 7A and 7B, showing the backing plates 120, the straps 124, 132 and mounting brackets 170. The backing plates 120 can be similar to the backing plates of FIGS. 6A and 6B and described elsewhere.

[0073] FIGS. 9A and 9B are front views showing first and second hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 in accordance with further aspects of the invention and FIGS. 10A and 10B show rear views of the first and second hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 of FIGS. 9A and 9B. The present hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 utilize paddles that are similar to the paddles of FIGS. 5A-6B, with a few exceptions. The backing plates 120 can be similar to other backing plates discussed elsewhere herein. In the present embodiment, the frames 122 can be formed to meet pickleball paddle standards. For example, the surfaces of the frame can be without sponge layers and rubber mat layers and can be made or formed to pickleball paddle specs.

[0074] In the embodiments with mounting brackets or fasteners for holding the frames to the backing plates, the frames can be separated from the backing plates for services, repairs, upgrades, etc. For example, a frame can be removed from the backing plate to re-string the head and then re-mounted to the backing plate. Optionally, a damaged or worn frame can be removed and then a new frame attached to the existing backing plate.

[0075] FIGS. 11A and 11B show a hand-mounted sport equipment 90 comprising first and second hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 in accordance with further aspects of the invention. FIGS. 12A and 12B show rear views of the first and second hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 of FIGS. 11A and 11B. In the present embodiment, the frame 122 and the backing plate 120 of each hand-mounted sport frame or HMSF are configured to be more permanently secured to one another such that separating them is difficult or not possible. The more permanent design can allow for a rigid coupling between the frame 122 and the backing plate 120, which can change the feel and characteristics of the frame when hitting a ball or a shuttlecock. The permanent attachment can be practiced with any number of prior art means, such as screws, fasteners, permanent bonds, and non-reversible screw heads. However, the more permanent design may not be conducive for repair or maintenance of the frames.

[0076] Air vents in an array may optionally be incorporated with any of the backing plates discussed herein. Air vents can be openings formed through the body wall of a backing plate, of any shape and size, within limits, as desired. Air vents help with venting the palm area as well as lightening the weight of the backing plate. Air vents are particularly helpful when the HMSF is used with a frame having a string pattern.

[0077] FIGS. 13A and 13B are schematic rear exploded views a hand-mounted sport equipment 90 in accordance with still further aspects of the invention, which comprises a first hand-mounted sport frame 100 and a second hand-mounted sport frame 102 that may be used for a player's left hand and right hand. In the present embodiment, the backing plate 120 of each hand-mounted sport frame comprises or embodies a housing 190 having a hand restraint assembly 192 comprising a hand restraint structure 124, which in the present embodiment comprises a glove-like hand retainer.

[0078] In the present embodiment, the housing 190 has a body 121 with a back wall or body wall 123 having a projection or hump 196 for the palm to grasp or cup, similar to grasping a mouse for use with a computer. The projection or hump 196 allows the hand to rest against the body wall of the backing plate. Alternatively, the projection can be omitted or can have gripping surfaces. As shown, a plurality of vent holes 198 can optionally be included at the hump 196 to allow air to pass thereacross when using the housing during play. The vent holes can be organized in an array or can be randomly spaced with sufficient number of openings as desired to provide the desired venting.

[0079] The housing 190 can have a body 121 with an overall oblong cup shape or bowl shape with a hollow interior. The body 121 can be molded from a plastic material or formed using graphite or fiber materials and can have a body wall 123 with a base 200, step walls 202 angled to the base 200 to form a cavity with the base, and a flange or landing 204 extending from the step walls 202 to define a perimeter 129 of the housing 190 of the backing plate 120. A perimeter wall 208 is provided with the housing 190 to provide a retaining edge at the perimeter and to form a frame receiving space 250 (FIG. 13D). As further discussed below, a frame or a blade can fit within opening of the housing at the perimeter wall 208 and be somewhat recessed within the cavity or frame receiving space 250 of the housing 190 with the recessed amount depending on the height of the perimeter wall 208 and the location of the landing 204 relative to the base of the perimeter wall. The recessed amount can also depend on the thickness of the frame 122.

[0080] In the present embodiment, a plurality of string holes are provided on the perimeter wall 208 for use to string the housing directly with a string pattern 230. The string pattern can be similar to a badminton, a racquetball racquet, and/or a tennis racquet. By stringing directly to the housing, a separate frame head with a string pattern, like that of FIG. 2B, can be omitted since the housing 190 is strung directly with the string.

[0081] The hand restraint assembly 192 of the present embodiment comprises a base 212 having a perimeter 214 that is sized and shaped to approximate the shape of the base 200 of the housing 190. A hand retainer 124 can attach directly to the base 212 of the hand restraint assembly 192, such as by using fasteners, snap fittings, adhesive, stitching, hook and lop fasteners, or combinations thereof. In the present embodiment, the hand retainer or hand restraint structure 124 is a glove-like retainer 218 comprising glove finger covers or pockets 220 but no thumb cover or pocket. Further, while full glove finger covers can be used, exposed finger covers without tips are preferred as shown.

[0082] A side opening or thumb access opening 224 is provided to accommodate a thumb, without any thumb cover. In some examples, fewer than four glove finger covers 220 may be practiced. For example, glove-like retainer 218 can omit covers for both the index finger and the thumb so that both the index finger and the thumb can be exposed when placing a hand into the holding space 130 of the hand retainer 124. The exposed index finger and thumb allow the player to grasp or grip a ball or a shuttlecock.

[0083] In another example, the glove-like retainer 218 can comprise a finger cover for the index finger but the length of the finger cover for the index finger is shortened to enable movement of the bone joints of the index finger. By leaving the thumb open, or not inserted inside a thumb pocket, and allowing mobility of the index finger, the user can grip a ball or a shuttlecock to start play by squeezing the ball with the free thumb and pressing the ball against the index finger. The glove-like retainer 218 may be formed of a mesh material to allow breathing. An adjustable strap 228, such as a VELCRO strap, can be included to allow adjustment for fit with a player's hand.

[0084] The base 212 of the hand restraint assembly 192 can have an opening for accommodating the projection or hump 196 on the housing 190 when the base 212 is attached to the body wall 123. The opening can on the base 212 can be sized and shaped to receive or couple with the projection or hump 196. The base 212 of the hand restraint assembly 192 can be bonded to the base 200 of the housing 190 for assembly with other means contemplated, such as fasteners, detents, clamps, and combinations thereof.

[0085] FIG. 13C shows a schematic rear assembled perspective views of a HMSE 90 having first and second HMSFs 110, 110 of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 13A and 13B.

[0086] FIG. 13D shows a schematic front assembled perspective view of one of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames of FIGS. 13A and 13B. As shown, a string pattern 230 having main strings and cross strings are strung directly to the perimeter wall 208 of the housing 190. Reinforcement fins and selected placement of different thicknesses may be employed with the housing 190 to provide strength against the string's tension. In other examples, the housing 190 may be made from more rigid graphite or engineered plastic.

[0087] FIGS. 14A and 14B are schematic rear exploded views of a HMSE 90 that includes two hand-mounted sport frames or HMSFs 100, 110 in accordance with further aspects of the invention. Each HMSF comprises a backing plate 120 and a frame 122, similar to other HMSFs described elsewhere herein. In the present embodiment, the backing plate 120 embodies the hand retainer assembly or hand restraint assembly 192 of FIGS. 13A and 13B. However, the perimeter 214 of the base 212 of the present embodiment can be shaped as appropriate to fit with or to fit within the perimeter 172 of the frame 122 instead of for fit to a body wall of a housing.

[0088] The frame 122 of the present embodiment is a paddle or a blade, which can be similar to a ping pong paddle but can exclude or omit a typical ping pong shaft-like handle. The paddle or blade of the frame 122 can be similar to other paddles or blades discussed elsewhere herein, such as a pickleball paddle, and can attach directly to the backing plate 120 through any number of means, such as glue, bonding, fasteners, detents, clamps, and combinations thereof.

[0089] FIG. 14C shows a schematic rear assembled perspective views of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames or HMSFs 100, 110 of FIGS. 14A and 14B. As shown, the perimeter 214 of the backing plate 120 is smaller than the perimeter 172 of the frame 122 and generally fits within the boundary defined by the perimeter 172 of the frame 122.

[0090] FIG. 14D shows a schematic front assembled perspective view of one of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 of FIGS. 14A and 14B.

[0091] FIGS. 15A and 15B are schematic rear exploded views a HMSE 90 having two hand-mounted sport frames or HMSFs 100, 110 provided in accordance with further aspects of the invention. The backing plates 120 of the present HMSFs 100, 110 are similar to the backing plates 120 of FIGS. 13A and 13B with a few exceptions. For example, each backing plate 120 of the present embodiment comprises a housing 190 and a hand restraint assembly or hand retainer assembly 192 like that of FIGS. 13A and 13B. However, the present housing 190 incorporates a plurality of mounting brackets 170 for securing a separately formed frame 122 within the frame receiving space or cavity of the housing 190 (FIG. 15D).

[0092] In the present embodiment, the housing 190 is modified to include attachment points 128, such as four spaced apart attachment points. Each attachment point 128 can include tabs, flanges, channels, and/or ribs for use with a clip 232 and an elastic band 234, which together form the mounting bracket 170 of the present embodiment. The clip 232 is sized to snap over the aligned perimeters of the housing and the frame and hold the two together with a retaining clip force exerted by the U-shaped structure of the clip. The clip has a tail 236 with a channel or a wall that can be retained to the housing by the elastic band 234. The elastic band 234 can loop through a channel formed on the inside of the housing 190 and then part of the elastic band 234 can extend through an opening at the attachment point 128 to retain the tail 236 of the clip 232. The elastic band 234 is used to hold the clip 232 to the housing in the event the clip comes loose during play.

[0093] The frame 122 of the present embodiment is similar to other frames discussed elsewhere herein and comprises a string pattern 230. The frame receiving space 250 (FIG. 15D) of the housing 190 is configured to receive the frame 122 and the clips 232 are configured to secure the frame to the housing. Thus, the present embodiment utilizes a separate frame 122 with the housing rather than using a string pattern directly with the housing as shown in FIG. 13D.

[0094] A perimeter securement band 240 is shown with each of the two HMSFs 100, 110. The perimeter securement band 240 acts like a gasket or a spacer and is preferably made of a stretchable and/or pliable material, such as a rubber material, a stretchable polymer material, a thermoplastic, or a thermoplastic elastomer material, of any number of colors or combinations of colors, such as black, green, pink, yellow, rainbow color, etc. The perimeter securement band 240 is formed as a continuous loop and has a generally U-shaped cross-section comprising a rear wall 242 and two sidewalls 244, 244, including a first sidewall and a second sidewall. The perimeter securement band 240 is configured to fit around the perimeter 172 of the frame 122 prior to placing the frame into the frame receiving space 250 of the housing 190. Use of the perimeter securement band 240 can provide several advantages, including protecting the surface of the frame 122 and allowing the compressive characteristics of the band 240 to function as a wedge to help wedge the frame to the inside perimeter defined by the perimeter wall 208 of the housing to form a tight fit, which eliminates rattling or slack between the frame and the housing. The perimeter securement band 240 can also adjust the thickness of the frame at the housing opening for fitment with the mounting brackets 170.

[0095] FIG. 15C shows a schematic rear assembled perspective views of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 of FIGS. 15A and 15B.

[0096] FIG. 15D shows a schematic front assembled perspective view of one of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 of FIGS. 15A and 15B, which shows the perimeter securement band 240 located around the perimeter of the frame 122 and the combination located in the frame receiving space 250 of the housing 190.

[0097] With further reference to FIGS. 15A and 15D and in an alternative embodiment, the backing plate 120 can comprise the housing 190 with a hand restraint structure 124 mounted directly to the housing 190. The hand restraint structure 124 can embody a glove-like retainer 218 without a base 212 of the hand restraint assembly 192. In other words, in the present alternative embodiment, the glove-like retainer 218 can attach directly to the housing 190. For example, the glove-like retainer 218 can be formed from a neoprene material of any number of colors or combinations of colors, such as black, blue, pink, green, etc. and attaches directly to the housing. The glove-like retainer 218 can have finger pockets for four fingers or less, such as three finger pockets, without a pocket for the thumb. Alternatively, the glove-like retainer 218 has no finger pockets and only side openings for the thumb, as further discussed below.

[0098] The glove-like retainer 218 can have a main layer or central portion to support the back of the hand and the main layer can extend from the finger pockets, if included. Two neoprene extensions can extend to the sides of the main layer and are used to project into two spaced apart slots formed on the base 200 of the housing. The two extensions can have a hook and a loop fastener system for fastening to one another at a location inside the frame receiving space 250. The two extensions can be adjusted by adjusting where the hook and loop fastener attach to adjust the holding space for the hand. Optionally, two extension on each side of the central portion, or four extensions, can be incorporated to produce two hook and loop fastener systems. A user can then slide his or her hand into the holding space and the stretchable neoprene material can firmly hold the hand within the holding space, directly against the surface of the housing.

[0099] Another alternative is the use of a perimeter securement band 240 to retain the frame 122 to the backing plate 120. In the present alternative embodiment, the perimeter securement band 240 of FIGS. 15A, 15B, and 15D can be removed from the frame 122, such as not used with the frame 122, and is instead used externally to secure the frame 122 to the backing plate 120. For example, the frame 122 can be assembled to the frame receiving space 250 of the housing 190 without the perimeter securement band 240 mounted directly to the frame. Then once the frame 122 is assembled to the housing 190, the perimeter securement band 240 is used externally around the outside of the perimeter wall 208 to grip the perimeter, part of the flange or landing 204 of the housing, and part of the frame 122. In other words, the perimeter securement band 240 can be used externally at the housing opening, at the perimeter wall 208, to retain the frame 122 to the frame receiving space 250 at the perimeter wall of the housing. This will allow the hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 to be used without mounting brackets 170. The frame 122 can have a string pattern or can be a blade type paddle, such as a pickleball paddle or a ping pong paddle.

[0100] In yet another alternative embodiment, the assembled frame 122 and backing plate 120 of FIG. 15D can include the perimeter securement band 240 as shown without the plurality of mounting brackets 170. A second perimeter securement band 240 can be used externally to secure the frame 122 of the backing plate 120, which also has a perimeter securement band 240 around the perimeter thereof, to the housing, as discussed immediately above. The frame 122 can have a string pattern or can be a blade type paddle, such as a pickleball paddle or a ping pong paddle.

[0101] FIGS. 16A and 16B are schematic rear exploded views of two alternative hand-mounted sport frames or HMSFs 100, 110 in accordance with further aspects of the invention. The backing plates 120 of the present HMSFs 100, 110 are similar to the backing plates 120 of FIGS. 15A and 15B.

[0102] The frame 122 of the present embodiment is similar to other frames discussed elsewhere herein with a string pattern or can have a blade type hitting surface. The frame 122 can have a perimeter guard 251, such as a plastic guard that protects the perimeter 172 of the blade or racquet from scratches, which can come standard with the frame. Even with the perimeter guard 251 mounted to the frame 122, the thickness of the combination may not allow the combination to properly seat with the frame receiving space 250 of the housing 190. For example, the perimeter guard 251 mounted on the frame 122 may be too thin and the mounting brackets 170 may not properly clamp the frame to the housing. Thus, a perimeter securement band 240 can be used as a spacer to modify the thickness of the frame at the perimeter 172 of the frame. in the present scenario, the perimeter securement band 240 may be placed atop or over the combination frame 122 and perimeter guard 251. When so assembled, the thickness at the perimeter of the frame 122 can include the frame's own thickness, the thickness of the perimeter guard 251, and the thickness of the perimeter securement band 240. The thickness of the perimeter securement band 240, acting has a spacer, can be selected as desired or appropriate for fitment.

[0103] FIG. 16C shows a schematic rear assembled perspective views of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 of FIGS. 16A and 16B.

[0104] FIG. 16D shows a schematic front assembled perspective view of one of the alternative hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 of FIGS. 16A and 16B, which show the perimeter securement band 240 located around the perimeter guard 251 which is then located around the perimeter of the frame 122 and the combination located in the frame receiving space of the housing 190. With the correct thickness, the mounting brackets 170 can clamp onto the housing 190 and the frame 122 to retain the frame within the frame receiving space of the housing.

[0105] In some examples, a third perimeter securement band 240 may be used externally to retain the frame 122 having both the spacer 240 and the perimeter guard 251 within the frame receiving space of the housing without the need for the mounting clamps or brackets. For example, the mounting brackets 170 of FIGS. 16A-16D can be omitted and an external perimeter securement band 240 may be used to retain the frame 122 to the housing 190. Further, while the frame shown is a paddle or blade type, the frame can be a string type, such as a badminton head type.

[0106] FIGS. 17A and 17B are schematic rear exploded views of two alternative hand-mounted sport frames or HMSFs 100, 110 in accordance with still further aspects of the invention. The backing plates 120 of the present HMSFs 100, 110 are similar to the backing plates 120 of FIGS. 15A-15B and 16A-16B with a few exceptions. In the present embodiment, the housing 190 is similar to the housing 190 discussed elsewhere and includes a hump 196, a flange or landing 204, a perimeter wall 208, and a frame receiving space. The housing can include a plurality of vents 198 in the area of the hump 196. Vents 198 are through openings formed through the body wall and can also be incorporated in the area of the landing 204. The vent opening sizes can be the same or different at the different locations on the housing 190 and the number and opening size can be selected as desired. Note that the housing 190 does not incorporate any mounting brackets or clips and uses a perimeter securement band 240 to retain the frame 122 within the frame receiving space of the housing, as further discussed below.

[0107] A discharge opening 254 can be incorporated, such as at the landing 204 of the housing 190. The discharge opening 254 can embody any number of different shapes but should be sized sufficiently large for a pen or a pencil to pass therethrough to push the frame 122 out of the frame receiving space of the housing 190, as further discussed below. Preferably, the discharge opening 254 is sufficiently large to allow a finger to pass therethrough so that the user can push the frame 122 out of the housing without having to resort to an external tool or object, such as a pen or pencil. The same discharge opening 254 may be practiced with other housings having a frame receiving space discussed elsewhere herein to facilitate disassembly of any frame from the frame receiving space of the housing of the backing plate.

[0108] In the example shown, a plurality of spaced apart anchoring points 128 are incorporated on the body wall 123 of the housing 190. The anchoring points can embody slots and can include a first pair of slots 128a, 128a and a second pair of slots 128b, 128b. Each anchoring point incorporates a single slot, although multiple slots can be used for strap adjustment. The location of the slots changes how the hand restraint structure 124, which in the present embodiment is a glove-like retainer 218, attaches to the housing 190. The location of the hand restraint structure 124 relative to the body wall of the housing can affect the swing center of the hand-mounted sport frame relative to the hand. Thus, the slots can be located as appropriate for attaching the glove-like retainer 218 at a desired location relative to the body wall of the housing.

[0109] In the example shown, the first pair of slots 128a, 128a are located in a spaced apart manner at approximately the mid-point of the hump 196 along the lengthwise direction. The second pair of slots 128b, 128b are located in a spaced apart manner at approximately 1 to 3 inches from the lower edge of the perimeter 129 of the housing adjacent the perimeter wall 208. The slots are sized and shaped to receive arm extensions on the glove-like retainer 218 to secure the glove-like retainer 218 to the housing 190 using hook and loop fastener systems as further discussed below.

[0110] The frame 122 of the present embodiment is similar to other frames discussed elsewhere herein and comprises a blade type hitting surface, such as a pickleball paddle or a ping pong paddle. The frame 122 can have a perimeter guard 251, such as a plastic guard that protects the perimeter 172 of the blade from scratches. Optionally, the perimeter guard 251 can be omitted. The frame 122 can be fitted into the opening of the housing, in the frame receiving space of the housing.

[0111] Once the frame 122 is fitted into the opening of the housing 190, preferably with part of frame 122 extending above a plane define by the upper edge of the perimeter wall 208, the perimeter securement band 240 can be used to engage the outside of the housing at the perimeter wall to secure the frame to the housing, which is shown in FIG. 17C. For example, the perimeter securement band 240 can have a U-shaped cross-section with a rear wall 242 and two sidewalls 244, 244, which include a first sidewall and a second sidewall. In the secured position of FIG. 17C, the rear wall 242 can press against the perimeter wall 208 while the two sidewalls 244, 244 press against the landing 204, or near the landing, and against the frame 122, or against the perimeter guard of the frame.

[0112] FIG. 17D is a front assembled view of the HMSF of FIG. 17C.

[0113] While the frame 122 is shown in the present embodiment as a blade type frame, such as a pickleball paddle or a ping pong paddle, the frame can be a string type frame, such as a badminton type, a racquetball type, or a tennis racquet type. In some examples, the backing plate 120 of the hand-mounted sport frame shown is configured for use with both types of frames, in a serial manner. For example, a user can remove the perimeter securement band 240 from the HMSF shown and then pushes the blade-type frame 122 out of the housing via accessing the discharge opening 254 and directly pushing the frame out of the frame receiving space of the housing via a finger or an object, such as the eraser end of a pencil. The user can then place a different frame 122, such as a different blade type frame or a string type frame, into the frame receiving space of the housing and then re-install the perimeter securement band 240. Preferably, the perimeters of the different frames 122 are approximately the same for fitment purposes.

[0114] With reference now to FIG. 18 in addition to FIGS. 17A and 17C, a hand restraint structure 124 in the form a glove-like retainer 218 is shown. The hand restrain structure 124 comprises a body 260 with a central portion 262 and connector extensions 264a, 264b, 266a, 266b extending from the central portion 262. In an example, two of the connector extensions 264a, 266a, call the A extensions, are located to one side of a central axis through the central portion 262 and two of the remaining connector extensions 264b, 266b are located to the opposite side of the central axis, called the B extensions. Two gaps 268, 270 are formed, one between each two pairs of connector extensions. When assembled, the gaps provide openings for the thumbs. The symmetry of the present glove-like retainer 218 with two thumb openings may be used for either the left hand or the right hand. The hand restrain structure 124 has a generally X-shape configuration and can be made from a stretchable fabric material, such as from a neoprene material or a mesh material. The perimeter 272 of the body 260 of the glove-like retainer 218 can optionally be stitched with a liner to protect the edges at the perimeter 272 from fraying.

[0115] The body 260 of the glove-like retainer 218 has a first side 276 and an opposed second side 278. As shown, each of the two connector B extensions 264b, 266b can be provided with a strip of loop fastener 280. The loop fasteners 280 can be stitched to the respective B extensions, on the first side 276 of the body 260. In a like manner, each of the two A extensions 264a, 266a can be provided with a strip of hook fastener 282. The hook fasteners 282 can be stitched to the respective A extensions on the second side 278 of the body 260. Said differently, the hook and loop fastener strips should be arranged on the connector extensions that allow them to mate or engage and be adjustable as hook and loop fastener systems are known to provide.

[0116] The hand restraint structure 124 in the form the glove-like retainer 218 can be assembled as shown in FIG. 17A, shown away from the housing 190 of the backing plate 120 for clarity, and in FIG. 17C. The hand restraint structure 218 can be folded to form a holding space 130 for the hand by folding the four connector extensions so that the hook fasteners 282 on the A extensions 264a, 266a face the loop fasteners 280 on the B extensions 264b, 266b. A compressive force can be applied to ensure proper engagement of the hook fasteners and the loop fasteners. In the folded configuration shown, the two gaps 268, 270 between the connector extensions form openings for the thumb. As there are two openings 268, 270, the same hand restraint structure 218 in the present embodiment may be used for both the first HMSF 100 to accommodate the thumb on the left hand and for the second HMSF 110 to accommodate the thumb on the right hand.

[0117] With reference to FIG. 17C and continued reference to FIG. 17A, when the four connector extensions 264a, 264b, 266a, 266b of the hand restraint structure 218 are routed through the four slots 128a, 128b, 128b, 128b on the backing plate 120 that serve as anchoring points and then forcing the hook and loop fasteners to mate, the hand restraint structure 218 appears as shown in FIG. 17C. In an example, the size of the holding space 130 can be adjusted by changing the amount of overlapping between the hook and loop fasteners on the four connector extensions 264a, 264b, 266a, 266b.

[0118] In use, a user can slide his or her hand into the holding space 130 and then projecting the thumb out the respective side opening 268, 270, which depends on whether the HMSF is used with the left hand or the right hand. Unlike other embodiments described herein, the four fingers of the user left hand or right hand project through the upper opening 284 of the hand restraint structure are exposed, without any finger covers or partial finger covers. This configuration is conducive to finger mobility and allows a user to grip a ball, such as a pickleball ball, a tennis ball, or a shuttlecock with the index finger and the thumb of either hand.

[0119] In another embodiment, different hand restraint structures 124 and glove-like retainer 218 colors may be provided to allow the user to semi-customize HMSEs and HMSFs of the present invention to his or her taste. Different perimeter securement bands 240 of different colors may also be available to allow the user to semi-customize HMSEs and HMSFs of the present invention to his or her taste.

[0120] Methods of making and of using hand-mounted sport frames 100, 110 are within the scope of the present invention.

[0121] Although limited embodiments of the hand-mounted sport frames or sports equipment and their components have been specifically described and illustrated herein, many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the hand-mounted sport frames or sports equipment and their components constructed according to principles of the disclosed device, system, and method may be embodied other than as specifically described herein. The disclosure is also defined in the following claims.

Example Embodiments

[0122] The following are numbered example embodiments of the apparatuses, devices, systems, and methods related to hand-mounted sport equipment and hand-mounted sport frames. Examples 1-70 or any other examples disclosed herein may be combined in whole or in part. Elements of the examples disclosed herein are not limiting.

[0123] Example 1. A hand-mounted sport equipment comprising: a backing plate having a body with a body wall and a perimeter and a hand restraint structure secured to the body wall; and a frame coupled to the backing plate, the frame comprising a body defining a head with a hitting surface or a blade having a hitting surface; a perimeter securement band or mounting brackets securing the frame to the backing plate; and a holding space defined by the hand restraint structure for receiving a hand.

[0124] Example 2. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the hand restraint structure is at least one strap.

[0125] Example 3. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the at least one strap is a first strap and further comprising a second strap spaced from the first strap.

[0126] Example 4. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the hand restraint structure is a glove-like retainer.

[0127] Example 5. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the hand restraint structure has a body a central portion and a plurality of connector extensions extending from the central portion.

[0128] Example 6. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the hand restraint structure is made from a neoprene material or a mesh material.

[0129] Example 7. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the hand restraint structure has a strip of hook fastener attached to one of the plurality of connector extensions.

[0130] Example 8. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the hand restraint structure has a strip of loop fastener attached to one of the plurality of connector extensions without the strip of hook fastener.

[0131] Example 9. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the plurality of connector extensions extending from the central portion project through a plurality of slots on the body wall.

[0132] Example 10. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the backing plate and the frame form a first hand-mounted sport frame, and further comprising a second hand-mounted sport frame comprising a backing plate and a frame.

[0133] Example 11. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the head is strung with a string in a string pattern.

[0134] Example 12. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the string pattern comprises set of main strings and cross strings.

[0135] Example 13. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the frame is a pickleball paddle.

[0136] Example 14. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the mounting brackets are attached to the backing plate in a spaced apart manner.

[0137] Example 15. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the frame is a first frame and further comprising a second frame, wherein the second frame is secured to the backing plate after removing the first frame from the backing plate.

[0138] Example 16. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the body of the backing plate has a body wall and the perimeter has a perimeter wall that together define a frame receiving space.

[0139] Example 17. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the frame is located in the frame receiving space and the perimeter wall covering at least part of a perimeter of the frame.

[0140] Example 18. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the perimeter wall defines a plane, and wherein the frame extends above the plane.

[0141] Example 19. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the perimeter securement band is a first perimeter securement band and further comprising a and perimeter securement band located around a perimeter of the frame.

[0142] Example 20. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the perimeter securement band is made from a pliable elastomeric material.

[0143] Example 21. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the perimeter securement band has a U-shaped cross-section comprising a rear wall and two sidewalls, which include a first sidewall and a second sidewall.

[0144] Example 22. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the rear wall contacts the perimeter wall, the first sidewall contacts the body wall, and the second sidewall contacts the frame.

[0145] Example 23. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the frame is a blade having a hitting surface without strings.

[0146] Example 24. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the frame has a hitting surface comprising a string pattern.

[0147] Example 25. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, further comprising a raised hump on the body wall of the backing plate.

[0148] Example 26. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, further comprising a plurality of vent holes formed through the body wall.

[0149] Example 27. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, further comprising a plurality of vent holes formed through the raised hump.

[0150] Example 28. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the glove-like retainer has a plurality of finger covers.

[0151] Example 29. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the glove-like retainer has a thumb opening and no thumb cover.

[0152] Example 30 The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the thumb opening is a first thumb opening, and further comprising a second thumb opening located on an opposite side of the first thumb opening.

[0153] Example 31. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the hand restraint structure is made from a neoprene material and has a hook and a loop fastener system.

[0154] Example 32. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the backing plate comprises a discharge opening formed through the body wall, the discharge opening having an opening size for accommodating at least one finger.

[0155] Example 33. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the discharge opening is located at a lower end of the backing plate, near an entrance to the holding space of the hand restraint structure.

[0156] Example 34. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the body of the backing plate has a body wall and the perimeter has a perimeter wall that together define a frame receiving space sized and shaped to serially receive the head with the hitting surface and the blade with the hitting surface.

[0157] Example 35. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the body wall comprises a plurality of vent openings located inwardly of the perimeter.

[0158] Example 36. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the body of the backing plate has a body wall comprising an inwardly raised hump for a player's palm.

[0159] Example 37. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, further comprising a plurality of vent openings located at the raised hump.

[0160] Example 38. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, further comprising a hand restraint assembly comprising a base, the hand restraint structure secured to the base, and the base secured to the body wall of the backing plate.

[0161] Example 39. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the hand restraint structure comprises a first clip, and the backing plate comprises a second clip.

[0162] Example 40. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the first clip is engageable and dis-engageable from the second clip.

[0163] Example 41. A hand-mounted sport equipment comprising: a first hand-mounted sport frame comprising a first backing plate having a body with a body wall with a perimeter, a hand restraint structure secured to the body wall, and a first frame secured to the body wall, the first frame comprising a body defining a head with a hitting surface or a blade having a hitting surface; a second hand-mounted sport frame comprising a second backing plate having a body with a body wall with a perimeter, a hand restraint structure secured to the body wall, and a second frame secured to the body wall, the second frame comprising a body defining a head with a hitting surface or a blade having a hitting surface; and wherein a first holding space located on the first backing plate is configured to receive a left hand of a user, and a second holding space on the second backing plate is configured to receive a right hand of the user.

[0164] Example 42. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the first frame is secured to the body wall of the first backing plate with a plurality of mounting brackets or with a perimeter securement band.

[0165] Example 43. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the second frame is secured to the body wall of the second backing plate with a plurality of mounting brackets or with a perimeter securement band.

[0166] Example 44. A hand-mounted sport equipment comprising: a backing plate having a body with a perimeter and a hand retainer comprising a pliable material and two spaced apart securing segments projecting through two spaced apart slots on the body; and a frame coupled to the backing plate, the frame comprising a body defining a head with a hitting surface or a blade having a hitting surface; and wherein a holding space is defined between the backing plate and the hand retainer for receiving a hand.

[0167] Example 45. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the body of the backing plate has a body wall and the perimeter has a perimeter wall that together define a frame receiving space.

[0168] Example 46. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the frame is located in the frame receiving space and the perimeter wall covering at least part of the frame.

[0169] Example 47. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, further comprising a perimeter securement band secured to the perimeter of the body of the backing plate.

[0170] Example 48. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the perimeter securement band is made from a stretchable elastomeric material.

[0171] Example 49. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the perimeter securement band has a U-shaped end cross-section comprising a rear wall and two sidewalls, which include a first sidewall and a second sidewall.

[0172] Example 50. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the rear wall contacts the perimeter wall, the first sidewall contacts the body wall, and the second sidewall contacts the frame.

[0173] Example 51. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the frame is a blade having a hitting surface without strings.

[0174] Example 52. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the frame has a hitting surface comprising a string pattern.

[0175] Example 53. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the hand retainer has an X-shape body.

[0176] Example 54. A hand retainer for use with a hand-mounted sport equipment comprising: a body with a central portion having a lengthwise axis and defining an A lateral side and a B lateral side; an A connector extension extending from the central portion towards the A lateral side; a B connector extension extending from the central portion towards B lateral side; and a hook and loop fastener system incorporated with the A connector extension and B connector extension.

[0177] Example 55. The hand retainer, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the A connector extension is a first A connector extension and further comprising a second A connector extension and a gap between the first and second Aconnector extensions.

[0178] Example 56. The hand retainer, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the B connector extension is a first B connector extension and further comprising a second B connector extension and a gap between the first and second B connector extensions.

[0179] Example 57. The hand retainer, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the body is made from a stretchable material.

[0180] Example 58. The hand retainer, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the stretchable material is a neoprene material or a mesh material.

[0181] Example 60. The hand retainer, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the body has a color or a combination of colors.

[0182] Example 61. A method of playing a hitting sport comprising: placing a left hand into a holding space of a first hand-mounted sport frame comprising a backing plate and a frame attached to the backing plate; placing a right hand into a holding space of a second hand-mounted sport frame comprising a backing plate and a frame attached to the backing plate; hitting a ball or a shuttlecock with either the first hand-mounted sport frame or the second hand-mounted sport equipment.

[0183] Example 62. The method of playing a hitting sport, device, and apparatus of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, further comprising adjusting the holding space of the first hand-mounted sport frame before placing the left hand into the holding space.

[0184] Example 63. The method of playing a hitting sport, device, and apparatus of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, further comprising adjusting the holding space of the second hand-mounted sport frame before placing the right hand into the holding space.

[0185] Example 64. The method of playing a hitting sport, device, and apparatus of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, further comprising placing a perimeter securement band around a perimeter of the first hand-mounted sport frame.

[0186] Example 65. The method of playing a hitting sport, device, and apparatus of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the perimeter securement band is made from a stretchable elastomeric material.

[0187] Example 66. The method of playing a hitting sport, device, and apparatus of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, further comprising placing a perimeter securement band around a perimeter of the second hand-mounted sport frame.

[0188] Example 67. The method of playing a hitting sport, device, and apparatus of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the ball is a ping pong ball, a tennis ball, or a wiffle ball.

[0189] Example 68. A hand-mounted sport equipment comprising: a backing plate having a body with a body wall and a perimeter having a perimeter wall defining a frame receiving space; a hand retainer comprising a pliable material and two spaced apart securing segments projecting through two spaced apart slots on the body wall; a string pattern comprising a plurality of generally parallel lines strung through the perimeter wall.

[0190] Example 69. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, further comprising air vents formed through the body wall of a backing plate.

[0191] Example 70. The hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, and method of any of Examples 1-70 or any other embodiment described herein, wherein the hand restraint member has a mounting clip that can snap on and off of the backing plate.

[0192] A still further method that is usable with any of the hand-mounted sport equipment, device, apparatus, further comprising using the same backing plate to play with either a frame with a string pattern or a frame with a solid hitting blade. The different frames are interchangeable and either frame can fit within the same frame receiving space of the backing plate.