Basketball with electronics

A basketball includes a bladder, electronics within the bladder proximate an outer portion of the bladder, windings about the bladder, and a molded elastomeric layer about the bladder and extending over the electronics.

BACKGROUND

During a game of basketball, the basketball is repeatedly bounced, such as when the basketball is being dribbled, or such as when the basketball being bounce-passed. It is essential that the bounce characteristics of the basketball be substantially consistent and uniform, regardless of what portion of the basketball is being bounced against another surface.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES

FIGS. 1-4illustrate an example basketball10that includes electronics. As will be described hereafter, basketball10is formed and is configured such that the inclusion of the electronics and the manner by which the electronics are supported have a reduced impact upon the bounce characteristics of basketball10. As a result, basketball10exhibits more consistent bounce characteristics regardless of what specific portion of the basketball is undergoing impact.

FIGS. 2-4are sectional views of basketball10. As shown by such figures, basketball10is a generally spherical inflatable object. Basketball10includes a carcass29. Carcass29is a combination of ball components that are molded in a carcass-forming mold to produce an inflatable ball structure. In one implementation, carcass29includes a bladder14, a layer of windings26and at least one elastomeric layer28of elastomeric material. In one implementation, as shown inFIGS. 1-4, the elastomeric layer28can be used as the cover layer of the basketball10, such that the outer surface of the elastomeric layer28also forms the outer surface of the basketball10. Basketball10further comprises valve16, receptacle18, electronics insert20, and plug24. Bladder14comprises an inflatable body or an inflatable sphere formed from materials such as butyl rubber, natural rubber, a combination of butyl and natural rubber and other elastic materials. In one implementation, bladder14is made from 80% butyl rubber and 20% natural rubber. In other implementations, the bladder14can be formed of latex, or other combinations of butyl rubber and natural rubber. Bladder14enables the basketball10to retain a predetermined amount of air thereby achieving the desired air pressure within, or firmness to, the basketball10.

Valve16facilitates inflation of bladder14. Valve16is secured to the exterior of bladder14and comprises an inflation tube30that extends through bladder14, windings26, and the elastomeric layer28. Valve16is configured to allow air to enter the bladder14through use of an inflation needle (not shown) and, when removed, retain the air within the bladder14.

FIGS. 3 and 4illustrate receptacle18and electronics insert20in more detail. As shown byFIGS. 3 and 4, receptacle18, sometimes also referred to as an enclosure or housing, extends into bladder14(shown in an at least partially inflated state) and forms a cavity32for receiving electronics insert20. In one implementation, receptacle18comprises a distinct member from bladder14which is treated, such as by being vulcanized, so as to fuse or join to the material of bladder14. In yet other implementations, receptacle18is integrally formed as a single unitary body with the remainder of bladder14. In yet another implementation, receptacle14comprises a separate component welded, fused, stitched, bonded, adhered to or fastened to a remainder of bladder14in other fashions.

In the example illustrated, receptacle18is formed from a flexible and resiliently stretchable material. In one implementation, is formed from the same material as bladder14. In other implementations, receptacle18may be formed from other flexible resiliently flexible materials. As a result, upon being inflated to a recommended pressure for use of basketball10, receptacle18squeezes about electronics insert20and plug24to assist in securing electronics insert20and possibly plug24in place. In yet other implementations, receptacle18may alternatively be formed from a rigid or inflexible material such that receptacle18does not change in shape, dimension or proportion in response to inflation of bladder14. In other implementations, the receptacle18can be formed of compositions of materials that provide varying levels of flexibility, resiliency, or rigidity. The specific composition can be adjusted to match the characteristics of the insert (e.g. the weight, size, and position of the insert20) to provide the most accurate transmission of signals from the electronics40. In one implementation, a lubricant can be used between the receptacle18and the insert20. The lubricant can be used to facilitate independent movement of the insert20and the receptacle18during use, if desired. The lubricant can also be used to facilitate the insertion of the insert20within the receptacle18. In other implementations, the lubricant can be omitted.

In the example illustrated, receptacle18extends partially into the interior of bladder314. In the example illustrated, receptacle18is located directly opposite to the valve16and inflation tube30. As a result, receptacle18offsets the opposite weight of valve16and inflation tube30. In one implementation, receptacle18, electronics insert20and plug24have a weight substantially matching the weight of valve16and inflation tube30to provide balance to ball14. In other implementations, receptacle18as well as the contained electronics insert20and plug24are formed so as to project into the interior of bladder14at other locations relative to valve16and inflation tube30.

Electronics insert20comprises a single body, member or unit inserted through mouth36of receptacle18into cavity32where insert20is retained. As shown byFIG. 4, insert20comprises electronics40, potting compound44and the battery46. Electronics40comprises one or more electronic components to carry out the sensing of one or more characteristics associated with basketball10and to carry out one or more of the transmission, storage and/or analysis of data resulting from the sensed characteristics. In one implementation, electronics40comprises an electronic chip. In the example illustrated, electronics40transmits one or more electronic signals which indicate the location, movement, speed, acceleration, deceleration, rotation, internal pressure, and/or temperature of basketball10. Alternatively, electronics40comprises a passive circuit that allows the detection of the location, movement, speed, acceleration, deceleration, rotation and/or temperature of basketball10to be ascertained when subjected to a magnetic field or other sensing system. In one implementation, electronics comprises a circuit board supporting one or more sensors to sense the location, movement, speed, acceleration, deceleration and/or rotation of basketball10. In one implementation, the circuit board can be a thin flexible member that can be attached to the bladder without the receptacle18or within the receptacle18.

Potting compound44comprises a mass of solid compound at least substantially encapsulating, if not completely encapsulating, electronics40. For purposes of this disclosure, the term “encapsulate” or “encapsulating” refers to a body or mass of material that contacts and closely conforms to the shape of the item being encapsulated which occurs as a result of the mass of material by being applied to the item being encapsulated while in a liquid, amorphous or gelatinous form, where the mass subsequently solidifies while about and against the item being encapsulated. The term “substantially encapsulate” or “substantially encapsulating” refers to the mass of material about and in close conformal contact with at least three sides of the item being encapsulated. The term “completely encapsulate” or “completely encapsulating” refers to the mass of material surrounding and enclosing on all sides the item being encapsulated.

In one implementation, potting compound44comprises a solidified mass of previously amorphous, gelatinous or liquid material. In one implementation, potting compound44comprises a polyurethane, silicone or other solidified polymer. In one implementation, potting compound44comprises a thermosetting plastic or silicone rubber gel. In one implementation, potting compound44comprises a low glass transition temperature potting compound to inhibit breakage of solder bonds during solidification.

Potting compound44, when solidified or hardened, forms an encapsulating body48encapsulating electronics40. Encapsulating body48is sized and shaped to fit within cavity32of receptacle18. In the example illustrated, encapsulating body48has an outer profile or shape that substantially matches the outer profile or shape of cavity32so as to restrict or limit movement of body48within cavity32. In the example illustrated in which cavity32is cylindrical, body48is also cylindrical. In other implementations, encapsulating body48may have other shapes when cavity32also has the same other corresponding shapes. For example, in one implementation, rather than comprising a cylinder having a circular cross-section, cavity32may alternatively comprise a cylinder having an oval cross-section or a polygonal cross-section. In yet another implementation, cavity32can be spherical or oblong. In still other implementations, cavity32may have other shapes. In still other implementations, encapsulating body48has other shapes or configurations, not necessarily matching the internal shape of cavity32. In yet other implementations, an external surface of encapsulating body48may have one of a projection or detent, wherein the internal surface of cavity32has the other of the projection or detent. In such an implementation, at least one of the projection and detent resiliently flex to allow the projection to be snapped into the detent to facilitate securement and retention of body48and insert20within cavity32of receptacle18.

In the example illustrated, potting compound44completely encapsulates electronics40but for one or more electrical conductors50, in the form of electrical filaments, wires or traces extending from electronics40extending within and through potting compound44from within body48out of body48. In the example illustrated, potting compound44solidifies while against and in contact with the electrical conductors50to seal against and about electrical conductors50. In other implementations, a bore or other path is formed through body48for the passage of electrical conductors50. Electrical conductors50facilitate electrical connection of electronics40to battery46. In an alternative implementation, the electronics insert20can be formed without the potting compound44. The electronics40can be coupled to one or more components of the ball such that the receptacle18is not used. In another alternative implementation, the electronics40can be inserted into the receptacle without the use of potting material. The receptacle can be sized to receive the electronics40. The electronics40be inserted into a receptacle in a press-fit arrangement. In another implementation, the receptacle18can be configured to readily receive the electronics, then upon inflation the receptacle can be drawn tightly about the electronics.

Battery46comprises a source of power for electronics40. Battery46extends external to body48at one axial end of body48. In one implementation, battery46has an end portion encapsulated by potting compound44so as to be joined to body48. In another implementation, battery46is welded, fused, bonded, adhered, fastened, retained or otherwise joined to an external surface of body48. As will be described hereafter, in yet other implementations, battery46is completely encapsulated by potting compound44within body48, but for any electrical conductors extending from battery46to locations external of body48. In still other implementations, battery46may be independent of insert20, not fixedly or connected to body48so as to be carried as a single unit with body48. For example, in other implementations, battery46may have an electrical terminal or contact in electrical connection with an external electrical terminal or contact of body48.

In one implementation, battery46is a non-rechargeable battery. In yet another implementation, battery46is rechargeable. In one implementation, battery46is rechargeable via a charging port extending through plug24into contact with a charging contact or terminal of battery46. In yet another implementation, battery46is configured for wireless or inductive charging. In another implementation, battery46may be charged through one or more of bladder14, windings26and the layer of elastomeric material28.

Plug24comprises a member received within cavity32between insert20and an exterior of basketball10. Plug24assists in protecting insert20. In the example illustrated, plug24is formed from a resiliently compressible material, such as a foam or a rubber, absorbing impacts of basketball10. In one implementation, plug24further provides an additional seal inhibiting the intrusion of moisture or other contaminants into the interior of cavity32. In yet other implementations, plug24may other sizes, shapes or configurations and may be formed from incompressible materials. For example, in other implementations, plug24may comprise a flat panel or a three-dimensional panel serving as a cover or flap over cavity32between cavity32and one or more of windings26and/or cover layer28. In another implementation, receptacle18and electronics insert20of basketball10can be formed without a plug.

Windings26comprise a layer of wound reinforcing thread wound about or over bladder14. In one implementation, prior to the application of cover layer28, the reinforcing thread may be further coated or covered with a viscous material, such as a latex or adhesive. In one implementation, the reinforcing thread is passed through a viscous adhesive material prior to being wound about bladder14. In one implementation, the thread forming windings26are formed of a high tensile strength material, such as nylon 66. In other implementations, the thread are material forming windings26may comprise other materials, such as a polyurethane, other elastomeric materials, and nylon/urethane combinations. In one implementation, windings26can be comprised of 2100 meters of 210 denier Nylon thread. In some implementations, selected portions of the layer of windings26are translucent or transparent. The threads form windings26that reinforce bladder14and retain the generally spherical shape of bladder14. In an alternative embodiment, the basketball can be formed without a layer of windings. In another alternative preferred embodiment, the layer of windings can be formed through one or more segments of adhesive tape, or similar material.

Elastomeric layer28comprises a layer of elastic material over and about windings26. In one implementation, the elastomeric layer28comprises a natural rubber, a butyl rubber, a sponge rubber, a styrene-butadiene rubber (sbr), a foamed elastomeric material or a combination thereof as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,681,233. In one implementation, elastomeric layer28is formed by laying panels or sheets of material over windings26and by molding or fusing the panels into a continuous integral unitary homogenous layer over windings26. In another implementation, elastomeric layer28is formed by injection molding or other fabrication techniques. It is common for a portion of the elastomeric material of the elastomeric layer28to impregnate, bond to, or otherwise engage the layer of windings26. In one implementation, the material of the elastomeric layer28is a sponge rubber. As shown byFIGS. 3 and 4, in one implementation, during the formation of elastomeric layer28by molding or melting, the exterior surface of elastomeric layer28is molded or shaped to include valleys54or channels defined by inner edges of elastomeric layer28. In one implementation in which elastomeric layer28also serves as the exterior surface or cover of basketball10, the valleys54forming cover layer28provide grooves on the exterior of basketball10to facilitate gripping. In such an implementation where elastomeric layer28serves as the exterior surface basketball10, the exterior service of cover layer28may additionally have molded thereon outwardly projecting pebbles between valleys54. In some implementations, as we described hereafter, the basketball may include additional outer cover panels, wherein the basketball10shown inFIG. 2may also be referred to as a carcass and wherein the elastomeric layer28is the outer surface of the carcass. In another implementation, elastomeric layer28can be a multi-layered body including one or more layers of fabric or elastomeric material.

As shown byFIGS. 2-4, windings26and elastomeric layer28continuously extends about bladder14and about basketball10, extending completely across mouth36of receptacle18and completely across electronics insert20which lies directly below windings26and cover layer28. In contrast to a distinct cap or cover along the outer surface of the basketball10, windings26and cover layer28provide enhanced consistency and uniformity over mouth36and over electronics insert20. Because windings26and elastomeric layer28continuously extend about basketball10while the same time continuously extending across electronics insert20, basketball10exhibits more consistent and uniform bounce performance or bounce characteristics, and more consistent deflection characteristics, across its entire outer circumferential surface when different portions of the outer circumferential surface are undergoing impact. In particular, the bounce characteristics or rebound characteristics of basketball10, when the exterior circumferential portion56of basketball10is directly impacting another surface, such as a basketball court, a blacktop, a floor, a backboard or a rim, will be closer to the bounce characteristics or rebound characteristics of basketball10when other exterior circumferential portions of basketball10, such as portions proximate valve16, portions adjacent to logo or other exterior circumvention portions, are directly impacting the same surface.

FIG. 5Ais a flow diagram of an example method100for forming a basketball, such as basketball10described above. As indicated by block104, electronics, such as electronics40, are attached to a bladder wall. In one implementation, the bladder wall comprises a generally flat panel which is subsequently joined to other panels to form a generally spherical unmolded bladder, wherein the electronics are attached to the flat bladder wall prior to the panel being joined to the other panels to form the spherical unmolded bladder. In another implementation, the bladder wall comprises a generally flat panel that is folded with respect to itself, wherein overlapping adjacent portions are fused along lines to form seams of an unmolded generally spherical bladder and wherein the electronics are attached to a flat bladder wall prior to the flat panel being folded with respect to itself or prior to the flat panel being fused along seam lines to form the seams. In another implementation, electronics are attached to the panel after the panel has been folded relative to itself and after the flat-panel has been fused along seam lines to form the seams, but prior to inflation of the fused bladder panel. In another implementation, the bladder wall comprises the curved wall of an unmolded, generally spherical, at least partially inflated bladder (such as after the flat-panel described above has been fused along seam lines to form the seams and after the thus formed unmolded bladder has been at least partially inflated to form the unmolded generally spherical bladder), wherein electronics are attached to the bladder wall while the bladder wall is already part of the unmolded generally spherical bladder. In yet another implementation, the bladder wall comprises the curved wall of a molded, generally spherical bladder, wherein electronics are attached to the bladder wall after the spherical unmolded bladder has been molded.

In one implementation, electronics are directly attached to the bladder wall. In yet another implementation, electronics are attached to the bladder wall by being positioned within a receptacle which is itself attached to the bladder wall. In one implementation, electronics are part of an insert which is inserted into the receptacle which is attached to the bladder wall. In such implementations, the electronics may be positioned within the receptacle, attached to the bladder wall, while the bladder wall is a generally flat panel and prior to the bladder wall being joined to other panels to form an unmolded bladder. In other implementations, the electronic media positioned in the receptacle, attached to the bladder wall, while the bladder wall is part of an unmolded spherical bladder (after the panels have been joined to form the unmolded spherical bladder). In yet another implementation, the electronic may be positioned within the receptacle, attached to the bladder wall, while the bladder wall serves as part of the spherical bladder and after the spherical bladder has been molded. In each of the above described examples, the attachment of the electronics40to the bladder wall (at some stage of the formation of bladder14) occurs prior to the formation of the elastomeric layer28, allowing the elastomeric layer28to be subsequently formed so as to continuously extend across and over the electronics40.

As indicated by block106, an elastomeric layer, such as elastomeric layer28, is formed over the bladder14while the electronics40are within the bladder14formed by the bladder wall. In one implementation, the elastomeric layer28directly extends over the electronics40within the bladder14. In one implementation, elastomeric layer28directly extends over and across the mouth36of the receptacle18containing the electronics40. In one implementation, the elastomeric layer28is formed over windings, such as windings26, which also extend over the bladder and over the electronics within the bladder. As will be described hereafter, in other implementations, the elastomeric layer may be formed over and across an opening in the windings, the opening in the windings communicating with the receptacle and the contained electronics. In one implementation, the elastomeric layer can be formed by locating multiple distinct panels or elastomeric layer portions over the bladder, and over windings or over the windings and the receptacle communicating opening in the windings.

As indicated by block108, the elastomeric layer, the bladder and the windings are molded in a carcass-forming mold while the electronics are within the bladder. In one implementation, the bladder and the overlaid portions of the elastomeric layer are inserted into a spherical carcass-forming mold, wherein heat and/or pressure are applied to mold the material or materials of the cover layer. In one implementation, the molding results in the different layer panels or portions being fused into a continuous integral unitary homogenous layer to form a carcass. In another implementation, the overlaid portions of the elastomeric layer are applied to the wound bladder before being placed into the carcass-forming mold. In another implementation, the cover layer is molded by injection molding or other fabrication techniques.

In one implementation, during the molding of elastomeric layer28(the carcass molding), the exterior surface of the elastomeric layer is molded or shaped to include valleys defined by inner edges of the cover layer that form the grooves or channels of the basketball10. In another implementation, during the molding of the elastomeric layer28(the carcass molding), the exterior surface of the elastomeric layer is molded with a plurality of outwardly projecting ribs that define cover panel placement locations. In one implementation in which elastomeric layer also serves as the exterior surface of the basketball, the outer or exterior surface of the elastomeric layer can be formed with a plurality of pebbled projections or pebbling between the valleys to facilitate gripping. In some implementations, the basketball may include additional outer panels, wherein method100results in the formation of what is referred to as a carcass, wherein the molded elastomeric layer is the outer surface of the carcass.

During carcass molding, heat is applied to the layer or layers of material forming the elastomeric layer28. Although the heat applied during the carcass molding process is sufficient to fuse and/or melt at least portions of the panel or portions forming the elastomeric layer, such sheet is insufficient to damage the electronics within the bladder. In one implementation, the elastomeric layer28is formed of sponge rubber that is initially applied as uncured rubber with a foaming agent. During the carcass molding process, the foaming agent is activated to form sponge rubber. Because the elastomeric layer (and the carcass) is molded while the electronics are within the bladder, electronics may be encased and covered by the continuous and uniform elastomeric layer that extends about a majority if not substantially all of the spherical outer surface of the basketball. The continuity and uniformity of the elastomeric layer about a substantially all of the outer surface of the basketball shields the enclosure and electronics within the bladder to reduce any impact that the enclosure and the electronics within the bladder may have upon the bounce characteristics of the basketball when portions of the basketball adjacent the electronics are undergoing impact.

FIGS. 5B-5Dare flow diagrams illustrating specific implementations of the general method100outlined inFIG. 5.FIG. 5Bis a flow diagram of an example method110, wherein electronics are attached to the bladder wall by receptacle and wherein the electronics are inserted into the receptacle prior to inflation of the unmolded bladder. As indicated by block112, electronics, such as electronics40(or insert20) is positioned into receptacle18which is attached to the panel wall for the bladder14. In one implementation, the electronics are inserted or positioned into the receptacle18while receptacle18is attached to a flat single layered panel, prior to the panel being folded relative to itself and being fused to form a spherical uninflated volume. For example, the electronics may be inserted into receptacle18at the stage shown inFIG. 13B, where the insert20is shown in broken lines to illustrate this option. In another implementation, the electronics inserted or positioned into the receptacle18while receptacle18is attached to a panel that has been folded relative to itself, but prior to the folded adjacent panels being fused to form the uninflated generally spherical bladder. For example, the electronics, as part of insert20, may be inserted into receptacle18at the stage shown inFIG. 13C, where the insert20is shown in broken lines to illustrate this option. In yet another implementation, the electronics, as part of insert20, may be inserted into receptacle18after adjacent portions the folded panel have been fused to form the uninflated bladder. For example, the electronics, as part of insert20, may be inserted into receptacle18at this stage shown inFIG. 14B, where the insert20is shown in broken lines illustrate this option.

Block114of method110identifies the step of inflating the unmolded bladder while the electronics are within the receptacle18. Such inflation occurs after spherical bladder has been formed from one or more panels fused or welded to one another. As indicated by block112, electronics are inserted into the receptacle prior to such inflation.

As indicated by block116, the unmolded spherical bladder is molded (seeFIG. 16illustrating positioning of an unmolded spherical bladder or body812positioned within bladder forming mold814). Such molding occurs while the electronics remain received or positioned within the receptacle. Such molding forms a more homogenous spherical body.

As indicated by block118, windings, such as windings26described above, are applied over the molded bladder. In one implementation, the windings are applied over and across a top the receptacle with the electronic contained therein. As indicated by block130, an elastomeric layer, such as elastomeric layer28, is formed over the windings while the electronics are within the receptacle. As indicated by block122, elastomeric layer is then molded while electronics are within the receptacle.

FIG. 5Cis a flow diagram of an example method123, wherein the electronics are attached to the bladder wall by a receptacle and wherein the electronics are inserted into the receptacle while the bladder wall is curved as part of an unmolded at least partially inflated spherical bladder. As indicated by block124, the electronics, such as electronics40, are positioned into a receptacle, such as receptacle18, while the receptacle is attached to the wall of an unmolded spherical bladder. In some implementations, a plug is additionally positioned within the receptacle between the walls of the spherical bladder and the electronics.

In one implementation, the unmolded spherical bladder is formed by a single panel folded panel having adjacent portions sealed or joined to one another. In one implementation, the receptacle18is attached to one of the multiple panels (see bladder panel800inFIG. 12), prior to the multiple panels being folded and sealed to one another to form the spherical unmolded bladder.

As indicated by block126, the unmolded spherical bladder is molded (seeFIG. 16illustrating positioning of an unmolded spherical bladder or body812positioned within bladder forming mold814). Such molding occurs while the electronics remain received are positioned within the receptacle. Such molding forms a more homogenous spherical body.

As indicated by block128, windings, such as windings26described above, are applied over the molded bladder. In one implementation, the windings are applied over and across a top the receptacle with the electronic contained therein. As indicated by block130, an elastomeric layer, such as elastomeric layer28, is formed over the windings while the electronics are within the receptacle. As indicated by block132, elastomeric layer is then molded while electronics are within the receptacle.

FIG. 5Dis a flow diagram of an example method140, another implementation of method100. Method140is similar to method120except that the electronics are positioned within the receptacle after molding of the bladder. Those steps in method140which correspond to steps in method120are numbered similarly. As indicated by block144, the unmolded spherical bladder having a receptacle is molded. Block144is similar to block126except that the molding of block144occurs prior to positioning of electronics into the receptacle. As indicated by block146, electronics are positioned into the receptacle of the molded bladder. Thereafter, the steps of blocks128-132are carried out. Block128includes the step of applying windings over the molded bladder. In another implementation, block146can be performed after block144and block128. The windings26can be wound so as to not fully cover the mouth36of receptacle18to allow for the electronics, such as insert20to be inserted within the receptacle18of the wound bladder.

FIGS. 6-9illustrate basketballs210,310,410and510, respectively, other examples of basketball10described above. Ball210is similar to ball10except that ball210comprises electronics insert220in lieu of electronics insert20. Those remaining components of ball210which correspond to components of basketball10are numbered similarly.

Electronic insert220is similar to electronics insert20except that potting material44completely encapsulates electronics40and battery46. Encapsulating body48completely encloses and surrounds electronics40and battery46, wherein electrical conductor50between electronics40and battery46is also completely encapsulated within body48. As a result, body48offers additional protection for battery46.

FIG. 7is a fragmentary sectional view of basketball310. Basketball310is similar to basketball10except that basketball310comprises electronics receptacle318, electronics insert320and plug324in lieu of receptacle18, electronics insert20and plug24, respectively. Those remaining components of basketball310which correspond to components of ball10are numbered similarly.

Electronics receptacle318is similar to electronics receptacle18except that electronics receptacle318has a different shape. In the example illustrated, electronics receptacle318comprises a spherical cavity332. In yet other implementations, electronics receptacle318may have other sizes and shapes.

Electronics insert320is similar to electronics insert220except that the potting material44is shaped so as to form encapsulating body348which corresponds to the shape of cavity332. Similar to cavity332, body348has a spherical outer shape or profile, limiting movement of insert320within cavity332. In the example illustrated, due to the spherical shape of receptacle318, cavity332as a mouth324which is smaller in size than the maximum internal dimensions of cavity332and which is smaller in size than the maximum outer dimensions of insert320. During insertion of insert320into cavity332, mouth336resiliently flexes or stretches to accommodate insert320. Upon resiliently returning to and unstressed state, mouth336moves about body348and returns to a size smaller than the maximum outer dimension of body348to assist in retaining insert320within cavity332.

Plug324is similar to plug24. Plug324extends between body348and the exterior of ball310. In the example illustrated, plug324is formed from a resiliently compressible or soft material to absorb impacts with ball310such that less forces are transmitted to insert320. In the example illustrated, plug324further seals insert320within cavity332. In the example illustrated, plug324has a reduced thickness as compared to plug24as mouth336assists in retaining insert320within cavity332. In other implementations, plug324may have a larger thickness or may be configured similar to plug24.

In some implementations, plug24or324may be omitted, may be supplemented with or may be replaced with one or more materials filled over body48or348. For example, in one implementation, cavity32or cavity332is filled with a fluid filler material that at least partially immerses, in one implementation completely submerses, insert220or insert320. In one implementation, the fluid filler material is chosen so as to solidify about insert220or insert320through curing or thermosetting. In yet other implementations, the fluid filler material remains in a fluid state, sealed within cavity by an additional plug or by additional outer layers of ball10or310.

FIG. 8is a fragmentary sectional view of sporting or game ball410, shown as an example basketball. Ball410is similar to ball210except that ball410comprises electronics insert420and battery446in lieu of electronics insert220and battery46. Those remaining components of ball410which correspond to components of basketball210are numbered similarly.

Electronics insert420is similar to electronics insert220except that potting material44does not encapsulate a battery, but encapsulates electronics40. In the example illustrated, insert420additionally comprises an external electrical contact pad or terminal449which is electrically connected to electronics40by electrical conductor441. In the example illustrated, potting material44completely encapsulates electronics40and is solidified about electrical conductor450to seal against electrical conductor450. In other implementations, a bore or other passage is formed within body448, wherein electric conductor450extends through and within the bore or other passage to terminal449. Terminal449facilitates electrical power transfer between battery446and electronics40across terminal439and conductor450.

Battery446is similar to battery46except that battery446is distinct and independent, or separable, from insert420. Battery446is inserted into cavity432prior to insertion of insert for20. In another implementation, battery446is inserted into cavity432after insertion of insert for20into cavity432. Battery446comprises electrical contact pad or terminal441which is configured for electrical contact with terminal449of insert420when both are inserted into cavity432. In the example illustrated, terminals441and449rest against and in contact with one another. Electrical power is transmitted across terminals441and449to electrical conductor450and ultimately to electronics40. Because battery446is independent of insert420, battery for46may also be replaced independent of insert420, allowing the use of insert420to be continued with a replacement battery.

Ball510is similar to ball210except that ball510comprises electronics insert520in lieu of electronics insert220and battery246. Those remaining components of ball510which correspond to components of ball210are numbered similarly.

Insert520is similar to insert to20except that insert520additionally comprises inductive coil552. Inductive coil552comprises an electrically conductive line such as an electrically conductive metal wire, trace or the like which serves as a secondary coil to facilitate inductive charging of battery546. In the example illustrated, inductive coil552extends from and is electrically connected to battery546(either directly or through electronics40), wherein inductive coil552forms windings or loops within the mass of potting material44(shown with stippling) proximate to or along a portion of body48which is proximate to or adjacent to plug24and the exterior of ball510. In such an implementation, potting material44completely encapsulates inductive coil552to protect coil552. In another implementation, inductive coil552alternatively extends along an outer surface of encapsulating body48for closer proximity to an exterior basketball510and for enhanced inductive charging.

Battery546comprises a rechargeable battery. In the example illustrated, battery546comprises a battery configured to be inductively recharged utilizing coil552as a secondary inductive charging coil. During such recharging, ball510is positioned adjacent to an inductive charger having a primary inductive charging coil which creates an electromagnetic field that encompasses coil552. In one implementation, the material and configuration of the primary coil and coil552, serving as a secondary coil, have matched or substantially matched resonant frequencies to enhance the rate at which battery546is inductively charged. In another implementation, the primary coil of the inductive charger and coil552may have different resonant frequencies.

FIG. 10is a fragmentary sectional view of basketball610, another example implementation of basketball10. Basketball610is similar to basketball10except that basketball610comprises elastomeric layer628in place of elastomeric layer28and further comprises outer a plurality of cover panels660. Those remaining components or structures of basketball610which correspond to components or structures of basketball10are numbered similarly.

Unlike elastomeric layer28, elastomeric layer628is not the outer surface of the basketball, but is instead the outer surface of a carcass. Elastomeric layer628is similar to elastomeric layer28described above except that elastomeric layer628is alternatively shaped or molded to include outwardly or radially projecting walls, ribs or dividers621in place of valleys54. Dividers621partition the exterior of elastomeric layer628into cover panel recesses, cavities or channels receiving outer cover panels660. In one implementation, dividers621can include an outer curved surface that forms grooves in the outer surface of the dividers621. In another implementation, the outer surface of the dividers621can be formed to include a plurality of pebbled projection or pebbling. In such an implementation where outer cover panels660extend over elastomeric layer628, the formation of pebbles in elastomeric layer628may be omitted. As with elastomeric layer28, portions of elastomeric layer628can be translucent or transparent in some implementations. In one implementation, those portions of elastomeric layer628forming one or more of dividers621are transparent or translucent to allow light to pass through dividers61while other portions of cover layer628are opaque or have different light transmissive properties.

Outer cover panels660comprise panels of material secured within the channels or cavities formed by dividers621along an exterior of basketball610. In one implementation, cover panels660are formed from a wear-resistant, resilient material having a high coefficient of friction value (or a high level of grip-ability), such as leather, synthetic leather, rubber, polyurethane, thermoplastic material, thermoset material, or other synthetic polymeric materials and the like. Cover panels660include at least two cover panels660and less than or equal to sixteen cover panels660. In some implementations, the cover panels can number eight, ten or twelve cover panels660. The cover panels660include peripheral edges that extend to dividers621. The cover panels are configured for impact with one or more playing surfaces and for contact with players. In one implementation, the exterior surface of such cover panels660include a pebbled texture. Each cover panel may additionally comprise the fabric backing coated with an adhesive prior to being secured to elastomeric layer628which may also be alternatively coated with an adhesive. In some implementations, at least portions of one or more of cover panels660are translucent or transparent. In another implementation, cover panel660can be one cover panel surrounding the carcass.

The backing is configured to increase the tensile strength of the cover panels660. The backing is made of a soft material, preferably a felt-like fabric. Alternatively, the backing can be formed of other materials, such as, for example, other woven or unwoven fabrics, plastic, an elastomer, a rubber, and combinations thereof. The backing is preferably configured to contact the outer surface of the carcass29. In an alternative preferred embodiment, the cover panels660can be formed without a backing. In one implementation, peripheral regions of the backing (and/or the outer layer of the cover panels660) can be skived (tapered or thinned out) to produce a recess in the outer surface of the basketball10near the dividers621. In another implementation, the cover assembly14can be connected directly to the bladder12or to the layer of windings14.

FIG. 11Ais a fragmentary sectional view of basketball710, another example implementation of basketball10. Basketball710is similar to basketball10except that basketball710further comprises further comprises outer cover panels660(described above) and strips725. Those remaining components or structures of basketball610which correspond to components or structures of basketball10are numbered similarly.

Strips725comprise elongate bands, tubes, cords or the like secured within valleys54and extending upwardly along adjacent opposite sides of cover panels660. The material of strips725have good grippability and relatively high coefficient of friction. In one implementation, material of the strips625is chosen to match grip and feel of cover panels660so that the grooves723of the basketball710do not include areas of reduced gripability on the surface of basketball710. The color of the material of strips625can contrast the color of the cover panels660provide visible evidence of grooves723. In one implementation, strips625are black. In one implementation, strips625comprise urethane-coated microfiber having a thickness of about 1.5 mm. In one implementation, the bottom of such strips325is coated with adhesive so as to adhere to cover its28(or carcass) during a final molding step. In one implementation, the material strips625is translucent or transparent.

In the example illustrated, basketball710is formed according to method120shown inFIG. 5B, in particular, during the forming of basketball710, electronics20are inserted into receptacle18prior to the molding of bladder14. Prior to the molding of bladder14, a plug24is additionally inserted within receptacle18above electronics20within receptacle18. During molding, sufficient heat is applied to bladder14such that at least outer circumferential portions of plug24melt and fuse to adjacent portions of bladder14such that one continuous layer of material extends about all of basketball710and across the mouth of receptacle18. In one implementation, the material of plug24is compatible with the material of bladder14to facilitate such fusing. In one implementation, the material of plug24is same as the material forming bladder14.

FIG. 11Cis a sectional view illustrating basketball760, another implementation of basketball10. Basketball760is similar to basketball710except that basketball760omits plug24and wherein the bladder14has an overlying cover portion762. Those remaining components of basketball760which correspond to components of basketball710are numbered similarly.

Cover portion762extends across the mouth of receptacle18to contain electronics20within receptacle18. In one implementation, cover portion762comprises a flap which is pivoted to an open position allowing electronics20to be inserted through the mouth of receptacle18, wherein the flap is returned to cover the inserted electronics20. In implementations where electronics20are inserted into receptacle18prior to molding of bladder14, such molding of bladder14may result in the flap forming portion762to become fused or sealed to adjacent portions of bladder14over electronics20within receptacle18. In other implementations, the unmolded bladder14has an opening through which electronics20are inserted into receptacle18, wherein during molding of bladder14, the material of bladder14melts and flows to fill the opening so as to form cover portion762. In yet other implementations, basketball760may omit cover portion762, wherein windings26extend across the mouth of receptacle18to contain electronics20within receptacle18.

FIGS. 12-28illustrate one example method for forming basketball710. In some implementations, some of the steps illustrated inFIGS. 12-28may be slightly modified or omitted to facilitate the creation of other basketballs such as basketballs10(along with its variations-basketballs to10,310,410,510and610).FIGS. 12-15illustrate an example method for forming the bladder. As shown byFIG. 12, bladder14is formed from a panel800of material, such as butyl rubber, latex, natural rubber, other elastic materials, combinations thereof. In one implementation, bladder14is made from 80% butyl rubber and 20% natural rubber. As shown byFIG. 12, two openings are formed or punched through the panel800: a first opening802for valve16; and a second opening804for receptacle18. As shown byFIG. 13, receptacle18is positioned through opening804and is joined to panel800. In one implementation, receptacle18comprises an outer rim that is overlapped with portions of panel800about opening804, wherein the outer rim and the adjacent portions a panel800are fused or melted to one another such that receptacle18forms an airtight enclosure through opening804. In another implementation, panel800can be formed without opening804and the receptacle with electronics40positioned within it are attached (fused, melted or molded) to one side of the panel800at the location of opening804. In a similar manner, valve16is positioned within opening802and is fused or otherwise joined to panel800while extending within and beyond opening802so as to form an airtight juncture with panel800at opening802.

As shown byFIGS. 13A-15, panel800, with the joined or supported valve16and receptacle18, is folded over itself, and heat is applied along lines808to weld, fuse or otherwise joined overlapping portions of panel800to one another to form the collapsed, preliminary body812of bladder14. Seams809may be formed at the location of the lines808. As shown byFIG. 15, the exterior or extraneous portions811of panel800are separated and removed, leaving the collapsed preliminary inflatable body812of bladder14and the supported valve16and enclosure18.

FIGS. 16-19illustrate inflation of and molding of the preliminary inflatable body812of bladder14ofFIG. 15. As shown byFIG. 16, the preliminary inflatable body812of bladder14is inflated. In particular, an inflation needle813is positioned through valve16to inflate the interior of body812. In one example method, the preliminary inflatable body812of bladder14is positioned within a portion of a mold814during inflation, wherein the mold814will be subsequent used to mold body812.

As shown inFIG. 17, in one implementation, electronics insert20(or any of the other electronic inserts described above) is inserted through mouth36into cavity32of receptacle18before the body812is molded in a bladder-forming mold814. As described above, in some implementations, electronics insert20is positioned within cavity32without any cover or top. In some implementations, electronics insert20is adhered or otherwise retained within cavity32. In yet other implementations, plug24(illustrated inFIG. 4) is positioned over the inserted electronics inserts20. In another implementation, the plug24can be formed by a flap of the panel800positioned over the mouth after the electronics insert is inserted within receptacle18. In one implementation, a lubricant can be used with the electronics insert20to allow for independent movement of the insert20and the receptacle18during use. A lubricant can also be used to facilitate the insertion of the electronics insert20within the receptacle.

The two clamshell mold halves (one of which is shown) of the bladder-forming mold814are positioned about the preliminary inflatable body812. The mold halves of the bladder-forming mold814are heated to apply heat to the preliminary inflatable body812. In some implementations, during the application of heat, body812is further inflated through inflation needle813to a greater extent, forcing body812against the interior molding surfaces of mold halves814. In the example illustrated, the molding of preliminary inflatable body812occurs while electronics insert20is being retained within receptacle18. In the example illustrated in which a plug24is additionally inserted into receptacle18above the inserted electronics insert20, the heat applied during molding of body812at least partially melts and fuses adjacent portions of the plug24and body812(the unmolded bladder) to form a unitary, continuous structure over and across receptacle18. As disclosed above with respect toFIG. 11A, in such an implementation, the plug is formed from a material that is the same as or that is compatible with body812such that plug24fuses to body812during molding a body812.

FIGS. 18 and 19illustrate the molded bladder14formed from the preliminary inflatable body812after removal from mold halves of the bladder-forming mold814. AlthoughFIG. 17illustrates the positioning insertion of electronics insert20into receptacle18prior to molding of the preliminary inflatable body812of bladder14, in other implementations, electronics insert20may be inserted into receptacle18after preliminary inflatable body812has been molded to the final configuration of bladder14shown inFIG. 19. In such an implementation, electronic insert20is not subjected to the heat applied to body812during the molding of body812.

FIGS. 20 and 21illustrate the forming of windings26over and about bladder14ofFIG. 19to form the wound bladder820shown inFIG. 20. Such windings26comprise a layer of wound reinforcing thread wound about or over bladder14. The layer of wound reinforcing thread continuously extends over receptacle18and across mouth36(shown inFIG. 17). As a result, winding26forms a continuous and uninterrupted as well substantially uniform layer about the entirety of bladder14.

In one implementation, prior to the application of cover layer28, the reinforcing thread may be further coated or covered with a viscous material, such as a latex or adhesive. In one implementation, the reinforcing thread is passed through a viscous adhesive material prior to being wound about bladder14. In one implementation, the thread forming windings26comprises nylon 66. In other implementations, the thread are material forming windings26may comprise other materials.

FIGS. 22-26illustrate the formation of elastomeric layer28.FIG. 22illustrates a lower portion of a clamshell carcass-forming mold830. As shown byFIGS. 23 and 24, the interior832of each of mold halves of the carcass-forming mold830are lined with the material to form elastomeric layer28. In one implementation, elastomeric layer28comprises a layer of elastic material over and about windings26. In one implementation, elastomeric layer28comprises a natural rubber, a butyl rubber, a sponge rubber or a combination thereof as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,681,233.

As further shown byFIGS. 23 and 24, mold halves of the carcass-forming mold830are lined by laying panels or sheets836of the cover layer material. As shown byFIG. 25, the wound bladder820ofFIG. 21is inserted within interior832of the lower mold half of the carcass-forming mold830on top of the cover layer panels836lining the interior832of the lower mold half of the carcass-forming mold830. The upper mold half830, lined with panels836, is positioned over on top of wound bladder820to completely enclose wound bladder820between the elastomeric material lined mold halves of the carcass-forming mold830. In another implementation, the panels or sheets836of pre-cured elastomeric material can be applied directly to the wound bladder820before placing the assembly into the bladder-forming mold830. Thereafter, the carcass-forming mold830applies heat to the contained panels836and wound bladder820to mold and fuse the panels836into a continuous integral unitary homogenous cover layer28over windings26. When the panels836are formed of pre-formed or pre-cured sponge rubber, the heat also activates the foaming agent to form the sponge rubber. In one implementation, the wound bladder820is further inflated through inflation needle813to urge exterior wound bladder820into contact with panels836which urges panel836against the shapes and configurations of interior832of mold halves of the carcass-forming mold830.

FIG. 26illustrates the resulting carcass840partially within one of mold halves of the carcass-forming mold830. As shown byFIG. 26, the exterior circumferential surface of carcass840includes grooves54formed by the corresponding ribs838along the interior832of mold halves of the carcass-forming mold830. In other implementations, interior832of each of mold halves of the carcass-forming mold830may have other configurations to form other surface configurations, if any, along and over the exterior of carcass840. For example, in other implementations, the interior32alternatively include grooves so as to form the dividers621such as when forming a carcass for basketball610. In implementations where cover layer28serves as the exterior surface of the basketball, the exterior surface of cover layer28may additionally have molded thereon outwardly projecting pebbles between valleys54. In other implementations, cover layer28is formed by injection molding or other fabrication techniques.

FIG. 27illustrates the application of strips725to the carcass840. In particular,FIG. 27illustrates the application of strips725within grooves54molded along the outer surface of carcass840. In the example illustrated, strips725comprise elongate bands, tubes, cords or the like secured within valleys54and extending upwardly along adjacent opposite sides of cover panels620. The material of strips625have good grippability and relatively high coefficient of friction. In one implementation, the material of the strips625is chosen to match grip and feel of cover panels720so that the grooves723of the basketball710do not include areas of reduced gripability on the surface of basketball710. The color of the material of strips625can contrast the color of the cover panels620provide visible evidence of grooves723(shown inFIG. 11). In one implementation, strips625are black. In one implementation, strips625comprise urethane-coated microfiber having a thickness of about 1.5 mm. In one implementation, the bottom of such strips325is coated with adhesive so as to adhere to cover layer28(or carcass) during a final molding step. In one implementation, the material of strips725is translucent or transparent.

FIG. 28illustrates the application of outer cover panels660to the exterior service of carcass840between grooves54and between strips725. Outer cover panels660comprise panels of material secured along an exterior of basketball610. In one implementation, cover panels660are formed from materials such as leather, synthetic leather, rubber and the like. In one implementation, the exterior surface of such cover panels660include a pebbled texture. Each cover panel660may additionally comprise the fabric backing coated with an adhesive prior to being secured to cover layer28which may also be alternatively coated with an adhesive. The basketball710can then be placed into a finishing mold to further secure the cover panels660and the strips725to the carcass840. In some implementations, at least portions of one or more of cover panels660are translucent or transparent.

As shown byFIG. 11A, the basketball710formed by the method shown inFIGS. 12-28has three layers, windings26, the elastomeric layer28and cover panels660, that extend about bladder14and about basketball10, extending completely across mouth36of receptacle18and completely across electronics insert20which lies directly below windings26and elastomeric layer28. In contrast to a distinct cap or cover along the outer surface of the basketball10, windings26, elastomeric layer28and outer cover panels660provide enhanced consistency and uniformity over mouth36and over electronics insert20.

A basketball that incorporate electronics into an already molded carcass or a completed basketball has many drawback. Such constructions typically include a stand-alone plug that is inserted into the mouth of a receptacle on either the completed molded carcass or on the completed basketball. Since such plugs are positioned at or near the outer surface of the ball, the plugs negatively affect the rebound consistency of the basketball. The rebound height of such balls can be lower when bounced on or near the plug than when bounced at other locations about the ball. Further, overtime, the plug can loosen and project outward from the carcass or the cover panel, resulting in a high spot on the basketball. Such high spot or projection can cause premature wear and negatively affect the performance of the ball including bouncing, shooting and passing of the basketball. The loosened and/or outwardly projecting plug can allow any lubricant that may be used within the receptacle or housing to seep out of the receptacle further negatively affecting the playability of the basketball.

Basketballs produced in accordance with the implementation of the present invention avoid overcome these drawbacks, because windings26and elastomeric layer28continuously extend about basketball10while the same time continuously extending across electronics insert20, resulting in more consistent and uniform bounce performance or bounce characteristics across its entire outer circumferential surface when different portions of the outer circumferential surface are undergoing impact. Outer cover panels626further enhances such bounce consistency. In particular, the bounce characteristics or rebound characteristics of basketball10, when the exterior circumferential portion56of basketball10is directly impacting another surface, such as a blacktop, floor, backboard or rim, will be closer to the bounce characteristics or rebound characteristics of basketball10when other exterior circumferential portions of basketball10, such as portions proximate valve16, portions adjacent to logo or other exterior circumferential portions, are directly impacting the same surface.

Rebound Consistency Performance

FIG. 29is a graph illustrating bounce consistency performance of basketball710. Basketball710comprises a valve16which extends along an axis904through a center of basketball710. Basketball710further comprises a receptacle, such as receptacle18(described above), carrying electronics, such as electronics insert20(described above). Basketball710has an outer circumferential surface region906that extends opposite to, proximate to and over receptacle18. In one implementation, receptacle18is generally centered along the same axis along which valve16extends. As shown byFIG. 29, basketball710further comprises a second outer circumferential surface region910which is centered along a plane912that is perpendicular to the axis904and extends through the center of the basketball. In the example illustrated, outer circumferential surface regions906and910are angularly offset about basketball710by 90° along each of the two axes that extend perpendicular to one another through the center of the basketball.

In the example illustrated, outer circumferential surface region910is the outer portion of basketball710that is most representative of a substantial majority of the outer surface of basketball710. Because outer circumferential surface region910, amongst all the other regions of basketball710, is farthest away from the extraneous supported structures of basketball710, valve16and receptacle18(and electronics insert20), surface region910is most likely to have bounce characteristics that differ from the bounce characteristics of region906by the largest extent. As a result, bounce uniformity or consistency may be most suitably measured by comparing bounce characteristics of regions906and910, regions that are most likely to exhibit the greatest disparity amongst the different outer portions of basketball710.

Bounce consistency or uniformity of basketball710may be determined by bouncing each of regions906and910upon a base or basketball surface BS. In one implementation, bounce consistency uniformity is determined based upon rebound characteristics of basketball710pursuant to Rule 1, Section 16, Article 7 of the 2014 & 2015 NCAA Men's Basketball Rules or Rule 1, Section 12, Article 2 of the NFHS Basketball Rules Book. As shown byFIG. 29, basketball710is dropped from a height of 6 feet above the base surface, as measured from a bottom of basketball710. Basketball710is dropped from the six-foot height while in two different orientations: a first orientation920in which region910faces downward and is bounced against the base surface and a second orientation930in which region906faces downward and is bounced against the base surface BS.

As further shown byFIG. 29, the rebound height of basketball710(following the first “bounce”) is measured with the basketball inflated at a pressure within the recommended inflation pressure range of the basketball. As shown byFIG. 29, when basketball710is dropped in the first orientation920such that region910impact the base surface, basketball710rebounds to a first height H1, as measured from a bottom of the basketball710. When basketball710is dropped in the second orientation930such that region906impacts the base surface, basketball710rebounds to a second height at, above or below the first height H1. The magnitude of the difference between the first height and the second height, referred to as the delta between such heights, is measured and recorded. As shown byFIG. 29, basketball710may exhibit a delta21in which basketball710, in orientation930, rebounds to a height higher than when basketball710is dropped in orientation920. Basketball710alternatively exhibits a delta22in which basketball710, in orientation930, rebounds to a height lesser than when basketball710is dropped in orientation920.

To ensure consistency at different inflation levels of basketball710, the above test is carried out at a plurality of different inflation pressures of basketball710within the recommended inflation range for basketball710. In one implementation, the recommended inflation pressure for basketball710is provided in the packaging of basketball710and/or is stamped, embossed and/or printed upon basketball710. In one implementation, basketball710has a recommended inflation pressure range of between 6 pounds per square inch (psi) and 8 psi. In one implementation, the aforementioned test is carried out with basketball710inflated to each of inflation pressures of 6 psi, 7 psi and 8 psi.

As described above, the overlapping of receptacle18with cover layer28and, in the tested example, windings26and outer panels660, disperses or spreads out forces acting upon the point of impact of basketball710such that the bounce characteristics of basketball710when in orientation930more closely resemble the bounce characteristics of basketball710when in orientation920. When basketball710is tested according to the above-described test, at each of a plurality of different inflation pressures, basketball710exhibits a rebound height delta (the absolute value difference between H21or H22and H1) that is no greater than 0.6 inches for a majority of the different inflation pressures.

In one test of example basketball710, basketball710was inflated to each of inflation pressures 6 psi, 7 psi and 8 psi. For a majority of such different inflation pressures, the rebound height delta of basketball710at the respective inflation pressure did not exceed 0.5 inches. The rebound height delta of basketball710at the respective inflation pressures also did not exceed 0.6 psi. Below is Table 1 reflecting bounce uniformity or consistency of an example basketball710. The basketball710used for Table 1 was formed with the electronics insert20inserted within the receptacle18before forming or molding of the bladder814and before the molding of the carcass. Similar testing was also performed upon basketball740, where electronics insert20was inserted into receptacle810after molding of bladder14rather than before the molding of bladder14, but before the molding of the elastomeric layer28to form the carcass. Table 1 compares the results of the testing of basketballs710and740with the results of the same test applied to an official Wilson® NCAA® Game Ball.

By way of contrast, as illustrated by Table 2 below, basketballs similar to basketball710, but not having receptacle18overlapped by elastomeric layer28or windings26, provided with a rubber cap or plug through an opening in the elastomeric layer28, exhibited greater rebound height deltas across a majority of different recommended inflation pressures for the basketball. Such basketball had the electronics inserted into the ball after the molding of the bladder and after molding of the carcass.

Table 3 below illustrates the results of the test measuring a stiffness of the basketball. The stiffness test identifies the amount of force needed to deflect the basketball at the sensor. The test was carried out by positioning the basketball in a universal testing machine, wherein the force is applied by a flat plate in contact with the surface of the basketball directly overlying the sensor and receptacle18.

As illustrated in Table 3 above, each of basketballs710and740, inflated to 7 psi, required 19 lbf or less force to deflect 1 cm, very similar to the 18.1 lbf to deflect the Wilson® NCAA® Game Ball at the sensor when inflated to the same 7 psi. As further illustrated in Table 3 above, each of basketballs710and740, inflated to 8 psi, required 20 lbf or less force to deflect 1 cm, very similar to the 19.1 lbf to deflect the Wilson® NCAA® Game Ball at the sensor when inflated to the same 8 psi.

As further illustrated in Table 3 above, the amount of force required to deflect the basketball is substantially similar regardless of what part of the basketball is undergoing compression or deflection. Each of basketballs710and740, inflated to 7 psi, required a first amount of force to deflect the basketball 1 cm in orientation920and a second amount of force to deflect the basketball 1 cm in orientation930, wherein the first and second amount of force where no greater than 0.4 lbf of one another. Each of basketballs710and740, inflated to 7 psi, required a first amount of force to deflect the basketball 2 cm in orientation920and a second amount of force to deflect the basketball 2 cm in orientation930, wherein the first and second amounts of force were no greater than 1.0 lbf of one another.

Each of basketballs710and740, inflated to 8 psi, required a first amount of force to deflect the basketball 1 cm in orientation920and a second amount of force to deflect the basketball 1 cm in orientation930, wherein the first and second amount of force were no greater than 0.7 lbf of one another. Each of basketballs710and740, inflated to 8 psi, required a first amount of force to deflect the basketball 2 cm in orientation920and a second amount of force to deflect the basketball 1 cm in orientation930, wherein the first and second amounts of force where no greater than 1.5 lbf of one another.

FIGS. 30-32illustrate basketballs1010,1110and1210, alternative implementations of basketballs10,610and710, respectively. Basketballs1010,1110and1210are similar to basketballs10,610and710, respectively, except that in each of basketballs1010,1110and1210, windings26having opening1015opposite to mouth36and in communication with the interior cavity32of receptacle18. Those remaining components or structures of basketballs1010,1110and1210that correspond to components or structures of basketballs10,610and710, respectively, are numbered similarly.

Opening1015facilitates insertion or positioning of electronics insert20and optional plug24into receptacle18after bladder14has been wound with windings26, prior to the forming and molding of elastomeric layer28to form the carcass. In one implementation, during winding of the bladder, the filaments about bladder14are configured to not cover portions of bladder14opposite to mouth36, leaving a gap which serves as opening1015. In another implementation, the programming of the winding machine is configured to provide a much lower density of filaments are windings across mouth36, allowing electronics insert20to be pushed through the lower density of windings or allowing the lower density of windings to be pushed aside or severed for insertion of electronics insert20.

FIG. 33illustrates the winding of bladder14so as to form opening1015through windings26.FIG. 34illustrates the wound bladder1320, similar to wound bladder820inFIG. 21, except that wound bladder1320comprises opening1015. In one implementation, windings26are formed about bladder14while receptacle18is empty, not containing electronics insert20. As shown byFIG. 34, opening1015facilitates insertion of electronics insert20through opening1015into the cavity32of receptacle18after or during the application of windings26to form wound bladder1320. As described above, in some implementations, plug24may be additionally inserted through opening1015on top of electronics insert20. Basketball1010is formed by subtly carrying out the steps illustrated inFIGS. 22-26. As noted above, in some implementations, such steps may additionally include forming or molding dimples on the exterior surface of elastomeric layer28. Basketball1110is formed by subsequently carrying out the steps shown inFIGS. 23-26 and 28, wherein dividers321are formed on the outer surface of carcass840. Basketball1210is formed by subsequently carrying out the steps shown inFIGS. 22-28.

As shown byFIGS. 30-32, in each of basketballs1010,1110and1210, comprise an elastomeric layer28that continuously extends about the wound bladder14, continuously extending over and across mouth36of receptacle18and over opening1015to enhance bounce consistency. Basketballs1110and1210additionally comprise cover panels660that span mouth36over and across opening1015for further shielding of opening1015and mouth36for enhanced bounce consistency.