Patent Publication Number: US-2016220877-A1

Title: Retractable basketball goal

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 13/969,461, filed Aug. 16, 2013. 
     The present application claims priority to and incorporates by reference U.S. provisional Patent Application No. 61/768,461, filed Feb. 23, 2013, having the same inventor and title as the present application. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Basketball goals installed or positioned proximate driveways are popular pieces of recreational equipment that enable playing basketball on driveways. Driveway basketball goals can be permanently installed or portable. However, some residential covenants and rules prohibit leaving a basketball goal visible proximate a driveway for multi-day intervals. Proscriptions against leaving the goals out over just one night are known. 
     Such covenants and rules often strictly prohibit permanently installed outdoor basketball goals proximate driveways. Conversely, portable units can be used on or proximate a residential driveway during the day and brought into a garage or otherwise moved to an inconspicuous location at night. However, portable goals tend to be large, heavy, or unwieldy, and are thus typically difficult to move. Some portable goals are prone to tipping over. Finding adequate space in the garage for storing the goals can also be difficult. A sturdy basketball goal that is alternately readily deployed for use and inconspicuously stored with ease is thus needed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view from inside a garage, of a retractable basketball goal in a retracted configuration according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view from outside a garage, of a partially deployed retractable basketball goal according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view from outside a garage, of a partially deployed retractable basketball goal according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view from outside a garage, of a retractable basketball goal in an operational configuration according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view from inside a garage, of a retractable basketball goal in an operational configuration according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of a height adjustment mechanism with its cover removed, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a partially deployed retractable basketball goal in a low position and a high position, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of a goal assembly in its thinnest configuration, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a goal assembly according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a goal assembly according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a goal assembly according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 12  is a top, plan view showing a retractable basketball goal in a fully retracted, a partially deployed, and a fully deployed (operational) configuration, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a pivoting connection between a support boom and tower, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of a base and tower, installed inside a garage, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a tower, telescopic tower section, and upper brace, installed inside a garage, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a support boom and adjustable strut according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 17  is a perspective view of a support boom distal end and backboard lift mechanism, according to an embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Embodiments of the present invention include a retractable basketball goal, also referred to as a retractable goal. Embodiments of the retractable goal are designed and configured to alternately retract into a garage for storage and extend out of the garage through a garage door opening for use. 
     Embodiments typically comprise an anchor assembly, a goal assembly including a backboard and rim familiar to persons skilled in the art, and a support boom coupling the anchor assembly to the goal assembly. The anchor assembly is typically designed and configured to anchor the retractable goal in a garage, where the anchor assembly resides just inside a garage door opening proximate a garage parking space. The anchor assembly typically, but not necessarily, resides immediately adjacent to or beside the garage parking space. Embodiments include stand-alone retractable basketball goals that are unattached to or unaffiliated with a garage. 
     The retractable goal generally includes a retracted configuration wherein the retractable goal resides entirely within a garage, with the backboard disposed substantially horizontally. The rim is typically disposed substantially horizontally as well. The term substantially horizontal or horizontally means within 22.5° of horizontal. The term precisely horizontal or horizontally means within 5.5° of horizontal 
     The retractable goal also typically includes an operational configuration, wherein the goal assembly resides outside the garage, with the backboard oriented precisely vertically and the rim oriented precisely horizontally. Precisely vertical or vertically means within 5.5° of vertical, and substantially vertical or vertically means within 22.5° of vertical. The operational configuration furthermore typically includes the rim residing at a rim height of about 10 feet. Rim height refers to a distance from a playing surface residing directly beneath the rim to a top of a circular portion of the rim, with 10 feet being an industry standard. Embodiments include operational configurations wherein the rim height is adjustable in a range from 6.5 feet to 10 feet. In the operational configuration, the support boom typically extends from the anchor assembly, through the garage door opening, to the goal assembly. In the operational configuration, the retractable basketball goal is available for shooting a basketball through the rim. 
     Embodiments include retractable goals installed, or designed and adapted to be installed, in a garage, and reconfigured from a retracted configuration to an operational configuration. Reconfiguration from a retracted configuration to an operational configuration can be referred to as deployment, deploying, or being deployed. Reconfiguring the retractable goal from the operational configuration to the retracted position can be referred to as retraction, retracting, or being retracted. 
     The retractable goal is typically reoriented from a retracted configuration to an operational configuration (deployment), or vice versa (retraction), with the goal assembly maintaining a clearance height during the deployment or retraction of preferably at least 5.25 feet, more preferably between 6.0 feet and 7.0 feet, still more preferably 6.25 feet and 7.0 feet, and most preferably about 6.5 feet. The retractable goal is thus capable of deployment and retraction without encroaching on the garage parking space, while still fitting beneath an open garage door, which typically resides at a height of about 7.0 feet. During deployment or retraction, the goal assembly typically traverses partially around the anchor assembly, above the parking space, until the goal assembly resides outside the garage. Accordingly, the retractable goal can typically deploy or retract with a car or other vehicle residing in the garage parking space. For exceptionally tall vehicles, such as some trucks, sport utility vehicles, or vehicles with structures mounted to the vehicle roof, deployment or retraction of the retractable basketball goal may not be possible, except where the vehicle has backed into the garage parking space such that the goal assembly passes over the vehicle hood. The goal assembly typically remains linked to the anchor assembly by the support boom while in retracted configuration, while in the operational configuration, and during deployment and retraction. 
     In some embodiments, the retractable goal assembly includes a safety switch that prevents the garage door from closing on the goal assembly when any part of the assembly extends through the garage door opening. 
     TERMINOLOGY 
     The terms and phrases as indicated in quotation marks (“ ”) in this section are intended to have the meaning ascribed to them in this Terminology section applied to them throughout this document, including in the claims, unless clearly indicated otherwise in context. Further, as applicable, the stated definitions are to apply, regardless of the word or phrase&#39;s case, to the singular and plural variations of the defined word or phrase. 
     The term “or” as used in this specification and the appended claims is not meant to be exclusive; rather the term is inclusive, meaning either or both. 
     References in the specification to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “another embodiment, “a preferred embodiment”, “an alternative embodiment”, “one variation”, “a variation” and similar phrases mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment or variation, is included in at least an embodiment or variation of the invention. The phrase “in one embodiment”, “in one variation” or similar phrases, as used in various places in the specification, are not necessarily meant to refer to the same embodiment or the same variation. 
     The term “couple” or “coupled” as used in this specification and appended claims refers to an indirect or direct physical connection between the identified elements, components, or objects. Often the manner of the coupling will be related specifically to the manner in which the two coupled elements interact. 
     The term “directly coupled” or “coupled directly,” as used in this specification and appended claims, refers to a physical connection between identified elements, components, or objects, in which no other element, component, or object resides between those identified as being directly coupled. 
     The term “approximately,” as used in this specification and appended claims, refers to plus or minus 10% of the numeric value provided. 
     The term “about,” as used in this specification and appended claims, refers to plus or minus 20% of the value given. 
     The term “generally” as used in this specification and appended claims, mean mostly, or for the most part. 
     The terms “removable”, “removably coupled”, “removably installed,” “readily removable”, “readily detachable”, “detachably coupled”, “separable,” “separably coupled,” and similar terms, as used in this specification and appended claims, refer to structures that can be uncoupled, detached, uninstalled, or removed from an adjoining structure with relative ease (i.e., non-destructively, and without a complicated or time-consuming process), and that can also be readily reinstalled, reattached, or coupled to the previously adjoining structure. 
     Directional or relational terms such as “top,” bottom,” “front,” “back,” “above,” “beneath,” and “below,” as used in this specification and appended claims, refer to relative positions of identified elements, components, or objects, where the components or objects are oriented in an upright position as normally installed or used. 
     The term “garage parking space,” as used in this specification and appended claims, refers to a three dimensional space projecting at least 15 feet into a garage from an associated garage door opening. The garage parking space typically projects into the garage perpendicular to the associated garage door opening. The garage parking space is typically the same width as the garage door opening, and in any event is at least 7 feet wide. The garage parking space typically extends from garage floor height to 5.0 feet above the garage floor. 
     A First Embodiment Retractable Basketball Goal 
     A first embodiment retractable basketball goal  100  is illustrated in  FIGS. 1-12 . The first embodiment retractable goal comprises a goal assembly  110 , an anchor assembly  130 , and a support boom  160 . The goal assembly  110  includes a backboard  111  and a rim  112 , and the anchor assembly  130  includes a base  132 , a tower  134 , and an upper brace  136 . The support boom  160 , which links the goal assembly  110  to the anchor assembly  130 , includes a first boom arm  162 , a second boom arm  163  disposed precisely parallel to the first boom arm  162 , a height adjustment mechanism  165 , and a bent portion  180 . Precisely parallel means within 5.5° of parallel. Substantially parallel means within 22.5° of parallel. The second boom arm  163  resides directly above the first boom arm  162 . 
     The support boom  160  is pivotably coupled to the tower  134  at a pivoting connection  150 . The pivoting connection  150  comprises an outer sleeve  151  and a portion of the tower  134  surrounded by the outer sleeve  151 . Both the tower  134  and the outer sleeve  151  of the first embodiment are typically cylindrical, which facilitates the outer sleeve rotating on the portion of the tower contained within. The outer sleeve  151  is supported on the tower  134  by a support sleeve  153 . The support sleeve  153  is secured in place on the tower  134  by one or more set screws  154  (best shown in  FIG. 4 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the retractable basketball goal  100  resides in a retracted configuration, with the goal assembly  110  residing inside a garage and the backboard  111  in a substantially horizontal orientation. The goal assembly  110  in  FIG. 1  resides at a clearance height  113  of about 7.0 feet. Retracted configuration clearance heights reside in a range of preferably 5.5 feet to 9.0 feet, more preferably 6.0 feet to 7.5 feet, and most preferably 6.25 feet to 7.0 feet. Clearance height  113  refers to a distance from the garage floor surface  187  directly beneath the goal assembly  110  to a bottom-most portion of the goal assembly. Clearance height does not include a basketball net. The net can project below the clearance height without detriment because the net will yield when contacting an object such as a car residing in the garage or driveway beneath the goal assembly  110 . In some embodiments, the net can be retracted so it does not extend below the rim  112 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the retractable basketball goal  100  is partially deployed, with the goal assembly  110  residing partially within the garage, and extending out through a garage door opening. The garage door opening is identified by reference character  185  in  FIGS. 1 and 12 . The clearance height  113  of the goal assembly is about 6.25 feet, the goal assembly having been lowered slightly from the configuration shown in  FIG. 1  in order to fit through the garage door opening  185 . With a clearance height  113  of about 6.25 feet, the goal assembly remains high enough to pass over a typical motor vehicle residing in the garage parking space  188 . The garage parking space  188  is best shown in  FIGS. 3 and 12 . Embodiments include a protective net that can be deployed across the garage door opening to prevent an errant basketball from striking a motor vehicle residing in the garage parking space. 
     The retractable basketball goal  100  is shown partially deployed in  FIG. 3 , with the entire goal assembly  110  residing outside the garage  184 , but with the backboard  111  remaining disposed substantially horizontally. In order for the support boom  160  and goal assembly  110  to move from the retracted configuration illustrated in  FIG. 1 , to the partially deployed configuration illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the support boom  160  revolves around the tower  134 , with the outer sleeve  151  rotating around a portion of the tower  134  residing within the outer sleeve. 
       FIGS. 4 and 5  show the retractable goal  100  in an operational configuration with the backboard  111  in a precisely vertical orientation. The goal assembly  110  is shown raised in  FIG. 4 . Raising the goal assembly  110  is performed by pressing down on an adjustment handle  167 . As best shown in  FIG. 6 , which is a view of the height adjustment mechanism  165  with a cover removed to expose internal components, the adjustment handle  167  is coupled directly to a proximal end  169  of the first boom arm  162 . 
     As best seen in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , lowering the adjustment handle  167  causes the first boom arm  162  to rotate on a first boom arm proximal pivot member  168 -A, such that a distal end  170  of the first boom arm  162  rises as the handle  167  and proximal end  169  lower. A bolt typically serves as the first boom arm proximal pivot member  168 -A, which acts as a fulcrum for the first boom arm  162  as it raises and lowers the goal assembly  110 . At its distal end  170 , the first boom arm  162  is pivotably attached to the goal assembly  110  by a first boom arm distal pivot member  168 -B. The second boom arm  163  remains precisely parallel to the first boom arm  162  as the goal assembly  110  rises and lowers. The second boom arm  163  rotates around a second boom arm proximal pivot member  172 -A and a second boom arm distal pivot member  172 -B as it rises and lowers. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 6 , the first boom arm proximate pivot member  168 -A and second boom arm proximate pivot member  172 -A typically reside on a straight line referred to as a boom arm proximal pivot pair line  173 -A. The boom arm proximal pivot pair line  173 -A is typically oriented in a range that is preferably 17° to 60° from vertical, more preferably 25° to 53° from vertical, still more preferably 30° to 43° from vertical, and most preferably approximately 34° from vertical. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 7 , the first boom arm distal pivot member  168 -B and second boom arm distal pivot member  172 -B typically reside on a straight line referred to as a boom arm distal pivot pair line  173 -B. The boom arm distal pivot pair line  173 -B is preferably substantially parallel to, and more preferably precisely parallel to, the boom arm proximal pivot pair line  173 -A. Horizontal/vertical orientation of the boom arm distal pivot pair line and boom arm proximal pivot pair line typically remains unchanged as the boom arms raise and lower. 
     As best seen in  FIG. 7 , the goal assembly  110  rises with the distal end  170  as the adjustment handle  167  lowers, an action aided by the lift assist members  171 , which are attached to the first boom arm  162  and the second boom arm  163 , and extend therebetween. The lift assist members of the first embodiment are typically tension springs. Other lift assist members include pneumatic cartridges and hydraulic cylinders. The lift assist members typically apply tensile force between the first boom arm  162  and the second boom arm  163 . The first and second boom arms change positions, relative to each other, moving in opposite directions along their respective longitudinal axes, as the goal assembly  110  raises or lowers. This causes the lift assist members  171  to compress as the goal assembly  110  raises, which relieves some tension on the springs. The lift assist members thus help lift the goal assembly. Conversely, as the goal assembly lowers, the lift assist members  171  stretch, and resistance of the springs to stretching helps prevent the goal assembly from lowering too quickly or forcefully.  FIG. 7  shows that the lift assist members  171  are relatively compressed with the goal assembly  110  raised, and are relatively stretched with the goal assembly  110  lowered. 
     As best seen in  FIG. 6 , the height adjustment mechanism  165  includes a locking pin  174  configured to reversibly engage a curved threaded rod  175  in order to lock the height adjustment mechanism at a given height. Secure engagement of the threaded rod  175  by the locking pin  174  is encouraged by a locking spring  176 , which pulls the locking pen fast against the threaded rod. The locking pin  174 , curved threaded rod  175 , and locking spring  176  collectively form a height locking assembly  177 . 
     The goal assembly  110  further includes a backboard lift mechanism  116  configured to adjust the backboard  111  from a substantially horizontal configuration to a precisely vertical orientation, from a precisely vertical orientation to a substantially horizontal configuration, and multiple orientations between horizontal and vertical. 
     As best seen in  FIGS. 8-11 , the backboard lift mechanism  116  comprises a swingarm  119  and a lift bracket  122 . Backboard struts  124  project from the lift bracket  122  to the backboard, and are pivotably coupled directly to an upper portion of the backboard on a first end  124 A, and pivotably coupled directly to the lift bracket  122  at a second end  124 B. The lift bracket  122  is pivotably coupled to the swingarm  119 . 
       FIGS. 8-11  illustrate the backboard  111  adjusting from a substantially horizontal orientation ( FIG. 8 ) to a precisely vertical orientation ( FIG. 11 ). In  FIG. 8 , the swingarm  119  resides relatively flat against the backboard  111 , with both the swingarm and the backboard being oriented substantially horizontally. So oriented, the backboard lift mechanism typically projects upwardly less than 2.5 inches from a back surface  114  of the backboard  111 . In some embodiments, the backboard lift mechanism preferably projects upwardly less than 6.0 inches, and most preferably less than 4.0 inches, from a back surface  114  of the backboard  111  when the backboard is oriented substantially horizontally and the swingarm  119  resides relatively flat against the backboard back surface  114 , as shown in  FIG. 8 . Accordingly, as illustrated in  FIG. 8  with the backboard oriented substantially horizontally and the backboard lift mechanism  116  laying relatively flat against the backboard back surface  114  (referred to as the goal assembly&#39;s thinnest configuration), the goal assembly of the first embodiment is approximately 6.0 inches thick not including the net. 
     Thus, when the first embodiment retractable basketball goal  100  is fully or partially retracted, with the goal assembly  110  in its thinnest configuration and residing at a clearance height  113  of 6.4 feet, the goal assembly  110  will typically fit beneath a garage door residing at 7.0 feet above the garage floor. An embodiment of a goal assembly  110  in its thinnest configuration is preferably less than 18.0 inches tall, more preferably less than 12.0 inches tall, and most preferably between 8.0 inches and 5.0 inches tall. 
       FIG. 9  shows an initial phase of backboard adjustment, initiated by tension being applied to the backboard lift line  125 , which is coupled directly to the swingarm  119 . Tension on the lift line  125  lifts a free end of the swingarm  119 , which rotates around a swingarm pivot  120 , by which the swingarm is pivotably coupled to the backboard  111 . Lifting and rotating of the swingarm  119  causes a lift bracket pivot  123  to move away from the backboard strut first end  124 A, which generates tension on the struts  124 , which results in the lift bracket  122  rotating around the lift bracket pivot  123 . 
     As best seen in  FIGS. 10 and 11 , as the swingarm  119  further rotates around the swingarm pivot  120 , the lift bracket  122  continues to rotate around the lift bracket pivot  123  until further rotation of the lift bracket  122  is obstructed by the swingarm  119 , whereupon further rotation of the swingarm causes the backboard struts  124  to pull upwardly on the upper portion of the backboard. Consequently, the backboard begins to adjust from a substantially horizontal orientation as it rotates around a backboard pivot axis. The backboard pivot axis  226  is best viewed in  FIG. 17 . 
     In order to adjust the backboard  111  to a precisely vertical orientation, tension is applied to the backboard lift line  125  by lowering a backboard lift lever  127 . As best seen in  FIG. 6 , the backboard lift lever  127  resides proximate or within the height adjustment mechanism  165 . The backboard lift line  125  is coupled directly to the backboard lift lever  127 , and lowering the lift lever  127  applies tension to the lift line, which in turn adjusts the backboard horizontal/vertical orientation as described above. The backboard lift line  125  of the first embodiment retractable basketball goal  100  typically comprises nylon, polyolefin, or polyester rope. Other lift line embodiments include, but are not limited to, rope, cable, wire, braided line, monofilament line, and other materials. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates movement of the goal assembly  110  from a fully retracted configuration  104  to an operational configuration  106 . The movement typically includes the goal assembly  110  revolving along an arc around the pivoting connection  150  and the support boom  160  rotating around the pivoting connection  150 . In the fully retracted configuration the goal assembly resides within the garage  184  and in the operational configuration the goal assembly resides outside the garage  184 . The pivoting connection  150  is a means by which the support boom  160  rotates precisely horizontally around the tower  134 , and is best shown in  FIGS. 1 and 5 . An alternative embodiment of a pivoting connection  250  is illustrated in  FIG. 13 . As best seen in  FIG. 12 , the bent portion  180  enables the support boom to reach around a garage door opening boundary  186 . 
     The bent portion  180  of the first embodiment retractable basketball goal  100  includes a first section and a second section, which meet at a horizontal bent arm angle  185  of approximately 90°. The horizontal bent arm angle is preferably less than 180°, more preferably between 45° and 180°, still more preferably between 60° and 120°, and most preferably about 90°. In some embodiments, the bent portion includes a curved arm section instead of or in addition to first and second sections meeting at a bent arm angle &lt;180°. Bent portions are horizontally curved or have a horizontal bent arm angle that is less than 180°, such that the support boom of which the bent portion is a part projects along a bent or curved horizontal path. 
     As best seen in  FIG. 1 , the anchor assembly  130  of the first embodiment retractable basketball goal  100  is typically secured in place on the garage floor  187  by being wedged between the floor  187  and the garage ceiling  189 , with the base  132  resting on the floor and the upper brace  136  pressed against the ceiling  189 . The base includes a first base leg  137  with a second base leg  138  projecting substantially perpendicular therefrom, and the tower  134  coupled to the base at a position offset from the ends of both the first and second base legs. Accordingly, were the anchor assembly to begin to tilt in any direction, the first or second base leg would leverage the tower  134  upwardly, which motion would be impeded by the upper brace  136  pushing against the garage ceiling  189 . Substantially perpendicular means within 22.5° of perpendicular. Precisely perpendicular means within 5.5° of perpendicular. As shown in  FIG. 1 , the base effectively occupies less than 2 square feet of garage floor area. 
     Similarly, the upper brace includes a first brace arm  139  with a second brace arm  140  projecting substantially perpendicular therefrom, and the tower  134  coupled to the upper brace at a position offset from the ends of both the first and second brace arms. Accordingly, were the anchor assembly to begin to tilt in any direction, the first or second brace arm would leverage the tower  134  downwardly, which motion would be impeded by the base pushing against the garage floor  187 . Actions of the base  132  and upper brace  136  against the garage floor  187  and ceiling  189 , respectively, therefore prevent the tower  134  from tilting appreciably, and the anchor assembly  130  is thus anchored in place, wedged securely between the garage floor  187  and ceiling  189 . The second brace arm  140  is typically at least 36 inches long in order to span at least 2 trusses or joists in the garage ceiling where the trusses or joists run perpendicular to the second brace arm. Height of the anchor assembly  130  is typically adjustable to facilitate placing the upper brace  136  firmly against the garage ceiling  189 . 
     A Second Embodiment Retractable Basketball Goal 
     A second embodiment retractable basket ball goal  200  is shown in  FIGS. 13-17 . The second embodiment retractable basketball goal  200  typically includes a tower  234  with a rectangular transverse cross-section, as opposed to the cylindrical tower  134  (best seen in  FIGS. 1-5 ) of the first embodiment. Other embodiments have towers with transverse cross-sections that are polygons or other simple closed figures. The second embodiment basketball goal  200  further comprises a pivoting connection  250  including a support boom pivot pin  255  coupled to and offset from the tower  234 , as best shown in  FIG. 13 . The support boom pivot pin  255  resides on an axis of rotation for the support boom  260 . The support boom pivot pin  255  is typically oriented precisely vertically, and is offset from the tower by preferably between 12.0 inches and 0.25 inch, more preferably between 6.0 inches and 0.50 inch, and most preferably between 1.0 and 2.0 inches. The pivoting connection  250  acts as a hinge, and enables the support boom  260  to rotate precisely horizontally about the support boom pivot pin  255  as the goal assembly revolves around the pin  255 . 
     The second embodiment retractable basketball goal further includes a support boom locking assembly  256  that locks the support boom  260  in place when deployed, thereby preventing horizontal rotation of the support arm. The support boom locking assembly  256  includes a hook  257  that engages the support boom  260  to prevent horizontal rotation in a first direction (in this case, preventing clockwise rotation). The locking assembly  256  further comprises an adjustable member  258  coupled to a tower flange  236 . The adjustable member  258  includes a threaded fitting configured to enable adjusting the length of the member  258 . Altering the length of the adjustable member  258  changes the angle between the support boom  260  and the tower  234 . The angle at which the support boom  260  projects through the garage door opening  285  when the support boom is locked in place by the support boom locking assembly  256  is thus adjustable. The support boom locking assembly  256  disengages from the support boom  260  by lifting a free end of the hook  257 . Lifting a free end of the hook can be performed by moving a release handle  261 A in a first handle direction  261 B, which in turn rotates a hook pivot pin  259 . 
       FIG. 14  shows a base  232  of the second embodiment retractable basketball goal, which comprises a first base leg  237  and a second base leg  238 . The tower  234  is coupled directly to the second base leg  238  through an adjustable base coupling  233  that enables attaching the tower  234  to the second base leg at various locations along the length of the second base leg  238 . The first base leg  237  can adjustably intersect and extend through the second base leg  238  such that a first base leg projecting portion  237 -A projects way from the second base leg  238  toward the garage door opening  285 . 
     The first base leg  237  further includes a leg extension  237 -B that extends from the first base leg  237  by an adjustable length. By adjusting how much of the leg extension  237 -B extends from within the first base leg  237 , the base  232  can be configured to fit garages having varied dimensions. In some embodiments, the first base leg  237  or the first base leg extension  237 -B extends to and butts against a garage wall or baseboard. Adjustment of where the first base leg  237  intersects the second base leg  238 , and thus how much of the first base leg projecting portion  237 -A extends through the second base leg  238 , can be utilized to adjust the location of the tower  234  in the garage. Thus by use of the adjustable base coupling  233  and adjustable first and second base leg intersection, position of the tower  234  can be varied or optimized. 
     As best seen in  FIG. 15 , the anchor assembly of second embodiment retractable basketball goal  200  is height adjustable, with a telescopic tower section  234 -A that extends from the tower  234  to the upper brace  236  in order to press the upper brace against the garage ceiling  289 . Height adjustability of the second embodiment enables the anchor assembly to wedge in place beneath garage ceilings that fall in a range preferably between 7.0 feet and 14.0 feet, more preferably between 7.0 feet and 10.0 feet, and most preferably approximately 8.0 feet. For exceptionally tall garage ceilings, embodiments included anchor assemblies that are 16.0 feet tall or taller. 
     The tower  234  includes compression spring couplers  235  configured to press the telescopic tower section  234 -A upwardly. An upper brace second arm  240  is affixed directly to the telescopic tower section  234 -A with an adjustable brace coupling  242  that enables attaching the telescopic tower section  234 -A to the second brace arm  240  at various locations along the length of the arm  240 . The upper brace  236  further comprises a first brace arm  239  and a third brace arm  241 , both of which are adjustably coupled directly to the second brace arm  240 . The adjustable brace coupling  242 , along with adjustable coupling of the first and third brace arms  239 ,  241  to the second brace arm  240 , enable positioning the tower  234  at various locations, and complements adjustability of the base  232 . 
     In some embodiments, the anchor assembly does not wedge in place between a garage floor and ceiling. Embodiments include anchor assemblies wherein the tower is received into a receptacle residing in the garage floor. Such floor receptacles can be formed in the garage floor when concrete is poured for the floor, or bored into the concrete later. Embodiments include anchor assemblies that are affixed to floors, walls, or ceilings. Embodiments include anchor assemblies affixed to adjacent structures by fasteners, including but not limited to threaded fasteners. Some embodiments include anchor assemblies anchored in place by use of heavy weights. 
     A second embodiment height adjustment mechanism  265  is illustrated in  FIG. 16 . The height adjustment mechanism  265  resides below and coupled to the support boom  260 , and includes a winch  227  operated by use of a winch crank  228  for adjusting the backboard between vertical and horizontal orientations. The winch  227  is configured to reel in a backboard lift line  225 , which is coupled to and acts upon a backboard lift mechanism  216  (see  FIG. 17 ) as previously described for the first embodiment, to raise the backboard to a precisely vertical orientation. The winch  227  is also configured to release the lift line  225 , which acts upon the backboard lift mechanism  216  as previously described for the first embodiment, to lower the backboard to a substantially horizontal orientation. The winch  227  further includes a brake to prevent the backboard from inadvertently falling to its horizontal orientation. 
     The height adjustment mechanism  265  further comprises an adjustable strut  266 . The adjustable strut  266  is coupled directly to the first boom arm  262  at one end, and to the support boom  260  at another end. The strut  266  includes a cleat rod section  272  and a receptacle section  273  configured to receive the cleat rod section  272  therewithin. The adjustable strut  266  is thus length adjustable and therefore configured to secure the first boom arm  262  at various positions, which in turn secures the goal assembly at various heights. Shortening the adjustable strut  266  by inserting the cleat rod section  272  farther into the receptacle section  273  allows a proximal end  269  of the first boom arm  262  to rise, which lowers the goal assembly as previously described. Conversely, lengthening the strut  266  by withdrawing the cleat rod section  272  from within the receptacle section  273  allows the proximal end of  269  the first boom arm  262  to lower, which raises the goal assembly as previously described. 
     The adjustable strut  266  further includes a locking mechanism  290  configured to lock the strut  266  at various lengths. The locking mechanism  290  is installed on the receptacle section  273  and includes a spring actuated wedge mechanism  291  configured to releasably engage the cleated rod  272 . Releasing the wedge mechanism  291  from the rod  272  is accomplished by moving a release lever  292 , which pulls a release line  293 , which in turn pulls an angled lever  294 , which in turn presses a lever portion  294  of the wedge mechanism  291  to disengage the wedge mechanism from the cleated rod  272 . 
     As best seen in  FIG. 17 , the second embodiment retractable basketball goal includes a support boom end member  282  residing at the support boom distal end  283  and coupled directly thereto. A backboard pivot member  226 -A resides along the backboard pivot axis  226 , and provides a pivotable coupling between the backboard and the support boom end member  282 . The support boom end member  282  is coupled directly to the first boom arm  262  at the first boom arm distal pivot member  268 -B, and to the second boom arm  263  at the second boom arm distal pivot member  272 -B. The boom arm distal pivot pair line  273 -B, which the first and second boom arm distal pivot members  268 -B,  272 -B reside on and are precisely perpendicular to, is shown in  FIG. 17  oriented approximately 45° from vertical. 
     The backboard lift mechanism  216  is shown partially lifted in  FIG. 17 , with the lift bracket  222  projecting away from the swingarm  219  at approximately 90°. The backboard itself is not shown in  FIG. 17 . The backboard lift line  225  is shown affixed to and partially lifting the swingarm  222 . The second embodiment lift line  225  typically engages idler pulleys  299  to direct the lift line  225  down through an internal hollow of the first boom arm  262  to the winch  227  (see  FIGS. 17 and 16 ). In some embodiments, a backboard lift line runs along and outside of first or second boom arms. 
     A Method of Using a Retractable Basketball Goal 
     A method of using a retractable basketball goal according to the present invention typically includes deploying the retractable goal from a retracted configuration to an operational configuration, and subsequently retracting the device from an operational configuration to a retracted configuration. 
     In a first operation of the method of using a retractable basketball goal, the retractable goal starts in a retracted configuration, in which the entire device resides inside a garage. The retracted configuration typically further includes the goal assembly residing at a clearance height of at least 5.5 feet above the garage floor, with the backboard disposed substantially horizontally. The anchor assembly, to which the goal assembly is coupled by a support boom, typically resides just inside the garage immediately adjacent to a parking space. The parking space is a space of appropriate size and location to receive and house a motor vehicle such as a passenger car or pickup truck inside the garage. Accordingly, the parking space is immediately adjacent to the garage door opening and typically extends at least 15 feet into the garage perpendicular to the garage door opening, and is also typically at least 5.0 feet tall and 7.0 feet wide. The parking space and garage door opening are usually approximately the same width. While in the retracted configuration, a portion of the goal assembly can reside directly above the parking space. 
     The first operation includes swinging the goal assembly along an arc with the goal assembly passing over the parking space as it revolves around a pivotable coupling by which the support boom is coupled to the anchor assembly. The first operation concludes with the goal assembly residing outside the garage, the anchor assembly remaining in place inside the garage, and the support boom projecting from the anchor assembly, through the garage door opening, to the goal assembly. 
     In some variations of the first operation, a user may lower the goal assembly slightly before swinging the goal assembly in order to adjust the clearance height from approximately 6.5 feet to approximately 6.0 feet. The goal assembly typically resides in its thinnest configuration (approximately 6.0 inches thick) as it passes over the parking space and through the garage door opening. With the clearance height being approximately 6.0 feet and the thickness of the goal assembly in its thinnest configuration being approximately 6.0 inches, the retractable basketball goal is well suited to passing over a typical passenger car and also passing beneath a typical garage door having a 7.0 feet clearance when open. In some embodiments, the goal assembly is less than 6.0 inches thick in its thinnest configuration, and can thus pass beneath an open garage door with 7.0 feet clearance, even where the goal assembly resides at a clearance height of 6.5 feet. As it revolves around the pivotable coupling, the goal assembly preferably travels along an arc 90°-270°, more preferably 110°-250°, still more preferably 130°-230°, and most preferably about 180°. 
     A second operation includes raising the goal assembly to a rim height of approximately 10 feet, with the anchor assembly remaining in place inside the garage. 
     A third operation includes raising the backboard from a substantially horizontal orientation to a precisely vertical orientation. The second and third operations are temporally interchangeable; either operation can be performed before the other. The retractable basketball goal typically resides in an operational configuration at the conclusion of the third operation. 
     A fourth operation includes lowering the backboard from the precisely vertical orientation to the substantially horizontal orientation. 
     A fifth operation includes lowering the goal assembly from a rim height of approximately 10 feet to a clearance height of approximately 6.0 feet. The fourth and fifth operations are temporally interchangeable; either operation can be performed before the other. 
     A sixth operation includes swinging the goal assembly along an arc with the goal assembly passing over the parking space as it revolves around the pivotable coupling, concluding with the goal assembly and the support boom residing entirely inside the garage. The goal assembly typically maintains a clearance height of at least 5.5 feet during the sixth operation, and also passes beneath an open garage door with a clearance of not less than approximately 7.0 feet. In some embodiments, a clearance height of at least 6.5 feet is maintained during the sixth operation. Some garage doors have a clearance of about 8.0 feet when open. The retractable goal assembly typically resides in a retracted configuration when the sixth operation concludes. 
     Alternative Embodiments and Variations 
     The various embodiments and variations thereof, illustrated in the accompanying Figures and/or described above, are merely exemplary and are not meant to limit the scope of the invention. It is to be appreciated that numerous other variations of the invention have been contemplated, as would be obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure. All variations of the invention that read upon appended claims are intended and contemplated to be within the scope of the invention. 
     Alternative embodiments include motorized, power actuated, or otherwise automated variations, wherein deployment or retraction of the retractable basketball goal is powered, and thus does not depend on manual operation. In some embodiments, revolution of a support boom around the tower is powered by an electric motor. Similarly, raising or lowering the goal assembly can be powered by an electric motor, as can changing position of the backboard between horizontal and vertical orientations. Variations include pneumatically and hydraulically actuated retractable basketball goals. It is well within the knowledge and ability of a person of ordinary skill in the art to automate or power the retractable basketball device of the present invention, and such automation or powering would require only routine experimentation.