Abstract:
A foldable, portable sports goal structure includes a hollow frame that contains an elastic cord or cable that uses compressive forces from the cord tension to hold the frame together. The sports goal includes ground support bars, sidebars and a crossbar. Rear support bars may also be used. The elastic cord or cable that is under tensions is used to hold the frame together when the goal is set up. The elastic cord or cable also holds the frame together when the goal is folded up so the goal can be quickly set up or folded up. The net can remain attached to the frame, which allows the goal to be used or stored as a single unit.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/301,153, filed on Feb. 29, 2016. The entire disclosure of the above application is hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     FIELD 
       [0002]    The present disclosure relates to a collapsible sports goal and, more specifically, a goal support system reinforced using elastic cords. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has reported that sports participation records in the United States have reached record levels in recent years. Sports can positively impact both children and adults, providing opportunities to exercise and spend time with peers in a healthy environment. 
         [0004]    Proficiency in a sport requires patience and, more importantly, practice. Practice allows a person to hone their skills and improve as a player. To increase the benefits of practice, simulations around the goal area are often desired. Practicing around a goal area sharpens goal-tending skills and goal-scoring ability, 
         [0005]    A known issue with practicing is the lack of available goals on school campuses and in parks. Thus, there is a need for a transportable goal that allows players to simulate a goal area during practice. 
         [0006]    In U.S. Pat. No. 6,209,878 to Munro, a collapsible, portable sporting goal frame is provided, having a pair of side support frames connected by a pair of flexible cables. Each of the side frames is constructed of a sequence of individual tubular frame members that connect to one another on an end-to-end basis. An elastic cord runs through each of the tubular members, and is placed in a stretched configuration when the tubular members are slideably connected together, end-to-end. The elastic cord thereby applies a compressive force against the connected frame members, resisting the unintentional disassembly thereof. When storage or transport is required, the individual members slide apart, with the elastic cord maintaining sequential order of the frame members. The net is attached to the flexible cables and the tubular frame members collapse in a manner forming a take-up spindle for the netting. 
         [0007]    There is a continuing need for a portable framework structure that may be used in combination with a net to construct a sports goal for use in various sporting events. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0008]    In concordance with the instant disclosure, a portable framework structure that may be used in combination with a net to construct a sports goal for use in various sporting events, has been surprisingly discovered. 
         [0009]    The present disclosure relates to portable framework structures and, more particularly, to such structures as are used in combination with a net to construct a sports goal for use in various sporting events. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a portable goal that will easily fold and is constructed of interconnecting components held together by the compressive forces of stretched elastic cord or cable. 
         [0010]    It is an object of the disclosure to provide a totally collapsible sports goal which can be folded down into one compact unit that is not more than four feet long which allows it to be easily carried around, easily transported in a car trunk, easily shipped from place to place and easily stored. 
         [0011]    It is a further object of the disclosure to provide an improved collapsible and portable spots goal which is lightweight in construction, but yet strong, stable and easy to erect. 
         [0012]    The sports goal can be fabricated from various materials, such as wood, plastic or metal. 
         [0013]    In one embodiment, a sports goal includes a goal frame having a plurality of hollow separable support segments configured to be assembled to form the frame. The separable support segments including a first separable support segment and a second separable support segment. The first separable support segment is disposed adjacent to the second separable support segment. An end of the first separable support segment is configured to selectively connect with second separable support segment. An elongated elastic cord is under tension where the goal frame assembled, and facilitates a securing of separable supports segments to one another where the separable supports are assembled to form the frame. 
         [0014]    In another embodiment, the sports goal includes a plurality of hollow separable segments, connected by friction fit joints or couplers, which connect to form a structure including a ground support bar connected to two sidebars, which together support a top crossbar. The two sidebars along with the top crossbar represent the goal face or goal opening. The size of the sidebars and the crossbar determine the dimensions of the goal opening. The ground support bar connects to the sidebars and lies on the ground to hold up the goal face, thereby keeping the goal face in a vertical position. The ground support bar can be a number of shapes, including a U- or V-shape, depending on the sport that is desired to be played or practiced. 
         [0015]    It should be appreciated that the sports goal may be provided as a kit, for example, disposed in a bag in a disassembled form for transport and later reassembly at a desired location for end use as the sports goal. 
         [0016]    In a further embodiment, the elastic cord runs throughout the structure continuously. The ends of the cord are connected together to create a continuous cord/cable loop, which reinforces one continuous sports goal frame. It should be appreciated that the continuous loop may be doubled or more in particular segments of the goal frame, depending on the configuration. The compressive force of the elastic cord/cable then acts to hold the sports goal together when erected, and to keep the various segments loosely connected when the sports goal is diassembled. The elastic cord thereby applies a compressive force against the connected frame members, resisting the unintentional disassembly thereof when assembled. 
         [0017]    In yet another embodiment, the elastic cord is not continuous, but is provided in sections with each section internally attached to two separable support segments. The cord traverses the junction between the two separable support segments, resulting in multiple stretched cords/cables that are then used to maintain one continuous sports goal frame. The compressive force of the elastic cord/cable then acts to hold the sports goal together when erected or when folded. The elastic cord thereby applies a compressive force against the connected frame members, resisting the unintentional disassembly thereof. 
         [0018]    In an additional embodiment, the net can be permanently connected to the goal support structure. The net is of a dimension to adequately cover the supporting structure. The bottom of the net attaches to the ground support bar, the top of the net attaches to the top crossbar and the sides of the net attach to the sidebars. The net can remain attached to the frame, which allows the goal to be used or stored as a single unit. 
         [0019]    In exemplary embodiments, a foldable, portable sports goal structure where the goal frame is hollow and contains elastic cord or cable whose compressive forces hold the frame together, is provided. The sports goal is made up of ground support bars, sidebars and a crossbar and where support bars may or may not be present. An elastic cord or cable that is under tensions is used to hold the frame together when the goal is set up. The elastic cord or cable also holds the frame together when the goal is folded up so the goal can be quickly set up or folded up. The net can remain attached to the frame, which allows the goal to be used or stored as a single unit. 
         [0020]    This sports goal structure is used with a net to construct a sports goal for use in various sporting events. The goal would be comprised of two sidebars of specified length which support a top crossbar of specified length. The two sidebars along with the top crossbar represent the goal face or goal opening. The size of the sidebars and the crossbar determine the dimensions of the goal opening. A U-shaped frame in the case of a soccer goal or hockey goal or a V-shaped frame in the case of a lacrosse goal that connects to the sidebars and lies on the ground would be used to support the goal face (keeping the goal face is in a vertical position). The U-shaped or V-shaped ground frame is also used to support the bottom of the net. The top of the net would be connected to the top crossbar and the sides of the net would be connected on each side of the goal face to the sidebars. The sports goal is ready for use when the frame is erected and a net is connected. 
         [0021]    The frame of the sports goal would be comprised of wood, plastic or metal with a hollow core. An elastic cord or cable would be stretched and threaded throughout the entire structure of the sports goal or the elastic cord or cable (would be stretched across every junction and connected on either side of the junction. In the case where the cord/cable is threaded throughout the entire frame, the ends are connected together to create continuous cord/cable loops which creates one continuous sports goal frame. Alternatively, the elastic cords/cables could be stretched and connected to the frame on each side of each junction so as to make up multiple stretched cords/cables that are then used to maintain one continuous sports goal frame. The compressive force of the elastic cord/cable then acts to hold the sports goal together when erected or when folded. With either construction, the compressive force of the elastic cord/cable would hold the frame together during use. The frame with a hollow core along with the elastic cord/cable comprise the sports goal of this invention. 
         [0022]    Another advantage of this construction is that the net can be permanently connected to the goal creating one unit. As a single unit (frame and net), the sports goal can be folded or unfolded quickly and easily. The net could be connected to the frame and stay in place when in storage, transport or during use. Having the entire sports goal and net connected allows for quick and easy fold up or unfold. Once erected, the sports goal can be easily moved into position and is ready for use. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0023]    The above, as well as other advantages of the present invention, will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment when considered in the light of the accompanying drawings in which: 
           [0024]      FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of a fully assembled goal with side support bars, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, with an interior elastic cord identified by dashed lines; 
           [0025]      FIG. 2  is a front perspective view of a fully assembled goal without side support bars, according to another embodiment of the disclosure, with an interior elastic cord identified by dashed lines; 
           [0026]      FIG. 3  is an exploded front perspective view of the goal shown in  FIG. 2 , illustrating that the goal can be broken down for storage and transport, and further depicted without a net attached thereto for purpose of clarity; 
           [0027]      FIG. 4  is a fragmentary, cross-sectional side elevational view of two support segments of the goal taken along section line  4 , 5 - 4 , 5  in  FIG. 1 , according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the support segments connected via a coupler, and a continuous elastic cord running through both supports and providing a tension to hold the supports in the coupler; and 
           [0028]      FIG. 5  is a fragmentary, cross-sectional side elevational view of two support segments of the goal taken along section line  4 , 5 - 4 , 5  in  FIG. 1 , according to another embodiment of the disclosure, the support segments connected via a coupler, and an individual elastic cord segment attached to each support. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0029]    The following detailed description and appended drawings describe and illustrate various embodiments of the collapsible sports goal. The description and drawings serve to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the collapsible sports goal, and are not intended to limit the scope of the collapsible sports goal in any manner. In respect of the methods disclosed, the steps presented are exemplary in nature, and thus, the order of the steps is not necessary or critical unless otherwise disclosed. 
         [0030]      FIGS. 1-2  show a collapsible sports goal  100  that is easily assembled using a series of hollow support bars  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  connected by an elastic cord  105 . These support bars  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  can be made of wood, metal, plastic or any other suitable material, as desired. 
         [0031]    The support bars  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  are formed from a plurality of individual segments that are selectively connected to one another using friction fit couplers  110 ,  112 ,  114 . For example, the couplers  110 ,  112 ,  114  may have an inner diameter substantially the same as an outer diameter of the support bars  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  with which they connect. These couplers  110 ,  112 ,  114  can be straight line couplers  110 , elbow couplers  112 , and T-shaped couplers  114 , as non-limiting examples. Other shapes for the couplers  110 ,  112 ,  114  may also be employed to impart a desired shape to the collapsible sports goal  100  upon assembly, within the scope of the present disclosure. 
         [0032]    Although the couplers  110 ,  112 ,  114  are shown herein as being formed separately from each of the support segments  102 ,  104 ,  106   108 , it should be appreciated that in other embodiments each of the couplers  110 ,  112 ,  114  may be formed integrally with one of the support segments  102 ,  104 ,  106   108 . In such an embodiment, the coupler  110 ,  112 ,  114  may be an end of one of the support segments  102 ,  104 ,  106   108  that has a diameter greater than or less than an adjacent one of the support segments  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  in the series. The end would be configured to either receive or be inserted into the adjacent hollow support segments  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108 , and to have a friction fit with the same. In this manner, the end of one of the support segments  102 ,  104 ,  106   108  will function as the coupler  110 ,  112 ,  114 , even though it is integrally formed as a one-piece unitary structure with the corresponding support segment  102 ,  104 ,  106   108 . 
         [0033]    The support bars  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  are arranged to form a ground support bar  102 , which stabilizes spaced apart sidebars  104  that support a crossbar  106 . The ground support bar  102  of the goal  100  is illustrated in the drawings as being substantially U-shaped, but can be one of a multitude of shapes, including V-shaped, as desired. 
         [0034]    In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , the goal  100  may also have rear supports  108 . The rear supports  108  may connect a rear-ward portion of the ground support bar  102  to the crossbar  106 .  FIG. 2  illustrates another embodiment, having the goal  100  without the rear supports  108 . A skilled artisan may also select other suitable configurations for the goal  100  within the scope of the present disclosure. 
         [0035]    More specifically,  FIG. 1  illustrates the fully assembled goal  100  with side support bars segments  104  connected to the ground support bar segments  102  with the elbow couplers  112 , and the ground support segments  102  connected to the crossbar segments  106  via the rear supports  108 , using the T-shaped couplers  116 . In particular, the ground support bar  102  may be composed of six segments, with certain segments connected using the straight coupler  110 , and other segments connected with the elbow  112  in order to form the substantially U-shaped ground support bar  102 . 
         [0036]      FIG. 1  further illustrates that the ground support bar segments  102  are connected to the sidebar segments  104  by the elbow couplers  112 . The crossbar segments  106  are connected to each other using the straight coupler  110 , and are connected to the sidebar segments  104  also using elbow coupler  112 . The sidebars  104  may also have segments connected with the straight coupler  110 . 
         [0037]    With reference to  FIG. 2 , the goal  100  according to another embodiment is shown. The goal  100  of  FIG. 2  only uses the ground support bar  102  to stabilize the goal opening. The ground support bar  102  is composed of six segments that are connected using the straight couplers  110  and the elbow couplers  112 . The ground support bar segments  102  are connected to the sidebar segments  104  by the elbow couplers  112 . The crossbar segments  106  are connected to each other using the straight coupler  110 , and are connected to the sidebar segments  104  using the elbow couplers  112 . 
         [0038]    As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the support bars  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  also have a net  116  connected thereto. The net  116  may be removably or irremovably affixed to the support bars  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108 , as desired. For example, the net  116  may be connected with hooks, clips, or the like. A particular advantage of the collapsible goal  100  is that the net  116  can be permanently attached to the goal  100  creating one unit. As a single unit (i.e., frame and net), the sports goal  100  can be disassembled and folded quickly and easily for storage and transport, while militating against a loss of individual pieces due to the use of the elastic cord  105 . 
         [0039]    In particular, it should be understood that the elastic cord  105  connects the individual segments of the support bars  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108 . The elastic cord  105  can either run throughout the structure continuously ( FIG. 4 ), or be internally attached to individual segments ( FIG. 5 ). Where the elastic cord  105  is continuous, it should be appreciated that it may run through individual segments more than once, depending on the overall construction of the goal  100 . In either embodiment, the cord  105  traverses the junction between the couplers  110 ,  112 ,  114  and support bars  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108 , keeping them connected at all times. 
         [0040]    The elastic cord  105  has a pretension imparted thereto, and is configured to retain a tension even when the goal  100  is fully assembled. The elastic cord  105  not only keeps all of the couplers  110 ,  112 ,  114  and support bars  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  together in proper orientation for assembly, but also applies a compressive force against the connected support bars  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and the couplers  110 ,  112 ,  114  when assembled, thereby providing a desired rigidity to the goal  100  and militating against an unintentional disassembly. 
         [0041]      FIG. 3  is a representation of the dissembled support bars  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108 , showing that the cord  105  may be exposed upon disassembly of the goal  100 . Where the cord  105  is exposed, it should be appreciated that this represents a location where the goal  100  will fold upon disassembly. In this manner, the support bars  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  are held together with the elastic cord/cable  105 , even when not rigidly coupled with the couplers  110 ,  112 ,  114 . This allows the goal to be easily disassembled for transport or storage. 
         [0042]      FIG. 4  is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a coupling connection in the frame of the goal  100 , in which the continuous elastic cord  105  is employed. The elastic cord/cable  105  extends continuously from one segment  104  through the straight coupler  110  into the other segment  104  of the sidebar  104 , and likewise throughout the other segments and couplers of the entire frame. The compressive force of the stretched elastic cord/cable  105  facilitates the holding together of the frame upon assembly. 
         [0043]      FIG. 5  is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a coupling connection in the frame of the goal  100 , according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the elastic cord/cable  105  extends through the coupler  110 , but is not continuous throughout the entire frame. Instead, individual sections of the elastic cord/cable  105  span the gap between the ends of the segments  104 , and are affixed to the ends of the segments  104  by fasteners  118  on each side of the joint. 
         [0044]    The fasteners  118  may be, in particular embodiments, one of a bolt, a screw, a pin, and a rod disposed through the segments  104  in an orientation transverse that of the cord  105 . The cord  105  may be tied or knotted around the fasteners  118 , for example. Alternatively, the ends of the cord  105  may have stop features that abut an eyelet formed in the fastener  118 . In any case, the compressive force of the stretched elastic cord/cable  105  holds the joint together when the frame is assembled. 
         [0045]    With renewed reference to  FIGS. 1-2 , and where the net  116  is not permanently affixed to the segments of the frame, the net  116  having specific dimensions to match the frame may be attached once the frame has been assembled. The net  116  can be attached to the frame using a variety of methods, such as straps or hook-and-loop fasteners. The ground support bar  102  would attach to the bottom of the net  116 . The top of the net  116  would be connected to the crossbar  106  and the sides of the net  116  would be connected to each sidebar  104 . 
         [0046]    As a single unit frame and net  116 , the sports goal  100  can be folded or unfolded quickly and easily. The net  116  could be connected to the frame and stay in place when in storage, transport or during use. Having the entire support frame and net  116  connected allows for quick and easy assembly and disassembly. The goal  100  is thereby made ready for use in a variety of sports such as, soccer, hockey, lacrosse, or as a practice net for kicking a football or for hitting golf balls, as non-limiting examples. 
         [0047]    Advantageously, a portable framework structure in the form of the sports goal  100  described hereinabove may be used in combination with a net for use in various sporting events. In operation, the sports goal  100  is easily disassembled or broken down for storage and transport, for example, in a bag to move to the desired location, and also easily reassembled for use. 
         [0048]    Other variations and embodiments of the present collapsible sports goal are contemplated. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate such variations upon carefully reviewing the above disclosure. Therefore, the present collapsible sports goal is not to be limited by the above description, but is to be determined in the scope of the claims, which follow.