Patent Description:
An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a sports racquet and removable wrist strap system. The system comprises a head and a handle coupled to the head. A flexible tether is provided which extends from an end of the handle. The system comprises a wrist strap and a wrist strap connector releasably connecting the wrist strap to the flexible tether.

<CIT> discloses a racquet safety tether assembly including a wrist-encircling portion and racquet handle-connecting portion, the wrist-encircling portion comprising a flexible band member, fastening means associated with each end of the band member, and cord-holding means disposed along the length of the band member intermediate the ends thereof.

The insert may be non-spherically shaped so as to be insertable through the side opening while at a predefined orientation.

The collar may extend along a longitudinal axis. The side opening may have a first maximum width transverse to the longitudinal axis. The side slot may have a second maximum width transverse to the longitudinal axis and less than the first maximum width.

The collar may be connected to the wrist strap, wherein portions of the wrist strap adjacent the collar may comprise a pair of side-by-side cords. The second maximum width of the side slot may be less than a combined width of the pair of side-by-side cords.

The collar may be at least in part formed from and/or comprise a resiliently flexible polymer.

The handle may comprise a cavity extending from the end of the handle towards the head. The flexible tether may be secured to the handle within the cavity.

The handle may comprise an end cap covering the cavity. The flexible tether may extend through the end cap.

The insert may be connected to the flexible tether. The collar may be connected to the wrist strap.

The side slot may extend along a slot axis. The insert may have a first longitudinal dimension and a second transverse dimension less than the longitudinal dimension. The side opening may have a maximum dimension less than the first longitudinal dimension and greater than the second transverse dimension. The interior of the collar may be sized to receive the insert through the side opening and to permit the insert to be pivoted within the interior from a first position in which a longitudinal axis of insert extends perpendicular to the slot axis to a second position in which the longitudinal axis of the insert extends parallel to the slot axis.

The flexible tether may have an effective length no greater than <NUM>.

An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a removable wrist strap assembly for a sports racquet having a flexible tether extending from an end of a handle of the sports racquet, the flexible tether being connected to one of a collar and an insert, the removable wrist strap assembly comprising:.

The collar may extend along a longitudinal axis. The side opening may have a first maximum width transverse to the longitudinal axis. The side slot may have a second maximum width transverse to the longitudinal axis and less than the first maximum width. The collar may be connected to the wrist strap. Portions of the wrist strap adjacent the collar may comprise a pair of side-by-side cords. The second maximum width of the side slot may be less than a combined with of the pair of side-by-side cords.

An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a sports racquet for use with a wrist strap, the sports racquet comprising:.

The wrist strap may comprise one of a collar and an insert. The wrist strap connector may comprise the other of the collar and the insert connected to the flexible tether. The collar may have an interior having a side opening and a side slot extending from the side opening. The insert may be insertable into the interior through the side opening while portions of the wrist strap or the flexible tether are insertable into the interior through the side slot.

The insert may be non-spherically shaped so as to be insertable through the side opening while at a predefined orientation. The collar may extend along a longitudinal axis. The side opening may have a first maximum width transverse to the longitudinal axis. The side slot may have a second maximum width transverse to the longitudinal axis and less than the first maximum width.

Disclosed are example sports racquet and removable wrist strap systems, sports racquets, and removable wrist strap assemblies that facilitate quick and easy connection and disconnection of a wrist strap from a sports racquet. By facilitating quick and easy connection and disconnection of the wrist strap from a sports racquet, the systems, racquets, and wrist strap assemblies permit a player to disconnect the wrist strap when the player no longer wishes to use the wrist strap. The disclosed systems, racquets, and wrist strap assemblies further permit the player to replace or exchange the wrist strap in circumstances such as when the wrist strap has become sweaty during play, such as when the wrist strap has been damaged and needs replacement, and/or such as when the player desires a different wrist strap having a different size or formed from a different material.

The example systems, racquets and wrist strap assemblies utilize a collar and an insert to releasably connect the wrist strap to the sports racquet. A flexible tether extending from an end of a handle of the racquet secures one of the collar and the insert to the racquet. The other of the collar and the insert is connected to the wrist strap. The collar has an interior side opening and a side slot extending from the side opening. The insert is insertable into the interior through the side opening while portions of the wrist strap or flexible tether are insertable into the interior through the side slot. In a reverse fashion, the insert is removable from the interior through the side opening while portions of the wrist strap or flexible tether are removable from the interior through the side slot.

In some implementations, the insert is non-spherically shaped so as to be insertable through the side opening while at a predefined orientation. As a result, the chance of accidental dislodgment of the insert from the collar is reduced. In some implementations, the collar has major dimension along a longitudinal axis and a minor dimension less than the major dimension, wherein the side opening has a first maximum width transverse to the longitudinal axis of the collar and a second maximum width along the longitudinal axis of the collar. The insert has a major dimension along a longitudinal axis and a minor dimension, less than the major dimension, and transverse to the longitudinal axis of the insert. The major dimension of the insert is greater than the second maximum width of the side opening. The minor dimension of the insert is sized for insertion through the side opening when the longitudinal axis of the insert is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the collar. In some implementations, the minor dimension of the insert is less than or equal to the first maximum dimension of the side opening. In such implementations, the insert may be inserted into the collar and then rotated within the collar to an orientation in which the insert is locked into or captured within the collar.

In some implementations, the side slot has a maximum width transverse to the longitudinal axis of the collar. In some implementations, the collar is connected to the wrist strap, wherein portions of the flexible tether, connected to the sports racquet, comprise a pair of side-by-side cords and wherein the maximum width of the slot is less than a combined width of the pair of side-by-side cords.

In some implementations, at least portions of the collar are formed from a resiliently flexible polymer, facilitating resilient flexing of those portions of the collar about the side opening during pivoting or rotation of the insert within the collar. Such action provides the player with a tactile and/or audible indication of when the insert has been fully pivoted within the collar to complete the connection or to ready the insert for withdrawal from the collar. Moreover, the resilient flexibility of the collar about the side opening may facilitate a smaller size of the side opening to assist in preventing accidental dislodgment of the insert through the opening.

In some implementations, the handle of the racquet comprises a cavity extending from an end of the handle towards the head of the racquet. The flexible tether is secured to the handle within the cavity, concealing the connection of the flexible tether to the handle. Because the connection of the flexible tether to the handle is concealed, a more robust connection between the flexible tether and the handle may be provided. In some implementations, the handle further comprises an end cap, or butt cap, covering the cavity, wherein the flexible tether extends through the end cap.

In some implementations, the end of the handle comprises at least a partial ring. The flexible tether may comprise a continuous cord having a fold or loop between opposite ends that are secured to one of the collar and the insert. The fold or loop is passed through the ring. Said one of the collar and insert is passed through the loop between the loop and the ring.

In some implementations, the flexible tether has an effective length of no greater than <NUM> extending from an end of the handle. For purposes of disclosure, the term "effective length" of the tether refers to the length of the tether from the axial end of the handle, and in some implementations, the end cap, to a proximal end of the insert or the collar, said one of which is directly connected to the flexible tether while the other of which is directly connected to the wrist strap. In some implementations, the flexible tether has an effective length of <NUM> beyond the surface of the end cap. As a result, the collar or insert directly connected to the flexible tether provides flexibility yet is sufficiently close to the axial end of the handle to reduce a likelihood of the insert and collar contacting or hitting the player's hand or wrist during play or contacting the butt end of the handle or the end cap during use. Such contact between the insert and collar and the player's hand, wrist or racquet handle might otherwise produce noise or might otherwise be annoying to the player. Moreover, in circumstances where the racquet is used without the wrist strap assembly, the short length of the tether may reduce the degree of possibly annoying dangling of the insert/collar connected directly to the tether.

In some implementations, the insert is directly connected to the flexible tether while the collar is directly connected to the wrist strap. In such implementations, the insert, sometimes referred to as a "pill", is sized smaller than the collar, having a lesser volume. When the wrist strap is not being used, the insert hangs from an axial end of the handle. In implementations where the insert is directly connected to the flexible tether rather than the collar, the smaller sized insert may be less conspicuous than the collar, may add a lesser amount of weight to the racquet as compared to the collar, and may be less likely to contact and/or catch upon the player during play.

Disclosed is an example sports racquet and removable system. The system may comprise a head, a handle coupled to the head, a flexible tether extending from an end of the handle, a wrist strap, and a wrist strap connector releasably connecting the wrist strap to the flexible tether. The wrist strap connector includes a collar and an insert. The collar is connected to one of the wrist strap and the flexible tether and has an interior having a side opening and a side slot extending from the side opening. The insert is connected to the other of the wrist strap and the flexible tether. The insert is insertable into the interior through the side opening while portions of the wrist strap or the flexible tether are insertable into the interior through the side slot.

Disclosed is a removable wrist strap assembly for a sports racquet having a flexible tether extending from an end of a handle of the sports racquet, the flexible tether being connected to one of a collar and an insert. The wrist strap assembly may comprise a wrist strap forming a loop to receive a person's hand and wrist, and the other of the collar and the insert connected to the loop. The collar has an interior having a side opening and a side slot extending from the side opening and wherein the insert is insertable into the interior through the side opening while portions of the wrist strap or the flexible tether are insertable into the interior through the side slot.

Disclosed is an example sports racquet for use with a wrist strap. The example sports racquet may comprise a head, a handle coupled to the head, a wrist strap connector for releasably connecting to the wrist strap, and a flexible tether having an effective length extending from an end of the handle to the wrist strap connector. Because the effective length is no greater than <NUM>, the wrist strap connector is less likely to bang or rattle about, or constitute a nuisance to the player wearing the wrist strap.

Disclosed is an example sports racquet for use with a wrist strap connected to one of a collar and an insert. The sports racquet may comprise a head, a handle coupled to the head, a flexible tether extending from an end of the handle, and the other of the collar and the insert connected to the flexible tether. The collar has an interior having a side opening and a side slot extending from the side opening and wherein the insert is insertable into the interior through the side opening while portions of the wrist strap or the flexible tether are insertable into the interior through the side slot.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" shall mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate member being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature. The term "operably coupled" shall mean that two members are directly or indirectly joined such that motion may be transmitted from one member to the other member directly or via intermediate members. For purposes of this disclosure, the phrase "configured to" denotes an actual state of configuration that fundamentally ties the stated function/use to the physical characteristics of the feature proceeding the phrase "configured to". For purposes of this disclosure, the term "releasably" or "removably" with respect to an attachment or coupling of two structures means that the two structures may be repeatedly connected and disconnected to and from one another without material damage to either of the two structures or their functioning.

<FIG> illustrates an example sports racquet and removable wrist strap system <NUM>. System <NUM> comprises sports racquet <NUM>, wrist strap assembly <NUM>-<NUM> and wrist strap assembly <NUM>-<NUM> (collectively referred to as wrist strap assemblies <NUM>). Sports racquet <NUM> comprises head <NUM>, handle <NUM>, flexible tether <NUM> and a wrist strap connector, in the form of an insert <NUM>, for releasably connecting to either of wrist strap assemblies <NUM>. Wrist strap assemblies <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> comprise collars <NUM> and wrist straps <NUM>.

Head <NUM> comprises that portion of racquet <NUM> configured to strike a projectile used in a sporting activity. Examples of such projectiles include, but are not limited to, balls (e.g., padel balls, platform tennis balls, racquetball balls, tennis balls, pickle balls and the like) and shuttlecocks. In the example illustrated, head <NUM> has a stringed projectile striking region <NUM> for striking the projectile. In the example illustrated, head <NUM> is illustrated as being in the form of a racquetball racquet. In other implementations, the shape and stringing pattern of head <NUM> may have other configurations such as where racquet <NUM> is in the form of a tennis racquet or other stringed racquet. In some implementations, head <NUM> may alternatively have a non-strung projectile striking region <NUM>. In such implementations, racquet <NUM> may be in the form of a padel paddle (<FIG>), a platform tennis paddle, a pickleball paddle, a squash racquet, a badminton racquet, a table tennis racquet or other forms of racquet/paddles having solid or non-strung projectile striking regions <NUM>. As should be appreciated, the size and shape of head <NUM> may vary depending upon the particular sport in which racquet <NUM> is to be utilized.

Handle <NUM> is directly or indirectly coupled to head <NUM> and provides a cylindrical or polygonal shaft about which a player's hand may grasp and hold racquet <NUM>. Handle <NUM> extends in a direction away from head <NUM>, terminating at an axial end <NUM>, or a butt end. In some implementations, handle <NUM> may have an outer wrap of a leather, synthetic leather, rubber, fabric or other material to facilitate gripping of handle <NUM>. In some implementations, handle <NUM> may omit such an outer wrap. In some implementations, handle <NUM> may have an outer texture to facilitate gripping of handle <NUM>. In some implementations, handle <NUM> is indirectly coupled to head <NUM> by throat or neck region.

Handle <NUM> may have a variety of different sizes and lengths depending upon the sport for which racquet <NUM> is configured to be used.

Flexible tether <NUM> comprises an elongate flexible or bendable cord, band, string or other flexible line extending from axial end <NUM> of handle <NUM>. In some implementations, flexible tether <NUM> may be formed from a leather or synthetic leather material. In some implementations, flexible tether <NUM> may be formed from a rubber, synthetic rubber or polymer material. In some implementations, flexible tether <NUM> may be formed from a natural or synthetic fiber material. Flexible tether <NUM> has a first portion <NUM> proximate to the axial end <NUM> of the handle <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> coupled to insert <NUM>. In some implementations, flexible tether <NUM> may be directly affixed to the axial end <NUM> at the axial end <NUM> of handle <NUM>. Such affixation may be by adhesive(s), weld(s), fastener(s), catch(es), a loop, a rod, a bar and/or hook through or about which tether <NUM> is tied or looped, and/or the like. In some implementations, first portion <NUM> may extend beyond axial end <NUM> towards head <NUM>. For example, in some implementations, first portion <NUM> may be secured to handle <NUM> at a location within a recess or cavity extending from and into axial end <NUM> towards head <NUM>.

In the example illustrated, the flexible tether <NUM> has an effective length of no greater than <NUM> extending from end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. In some implementations, flexible tether <NUM> has an effective length of at least <NUM> and no greater than <NUM>, and nominally <NUM>. As a result, flexible tether <NUM> has sufficient length to facilitate manual positioning and control over the orientation of insert for facilitating the insertion and withdrawal of insert <NUM> with respect to a collar <NUM> of removable wrist strap assembly <NUM>-<NUM> or <NUM>-<NUM>, yet sufficiently limited in length to reduce a likelihood of the insert <NUM> and collar <NUM> contacting or hitting the player's hand or wrist during play or contacting the butt end or axial end <NUM> of the handle <NUM> during use. Such contact between the insert <NUM> and collar <NUM> and the player's hand, wrist or racquet handle might otherwise produce noise or might otherwise be annoying to the player. In some implementations, the flexible tether <NUM> has an effective length of <NUM> beyond axial end <NUM>. In other implementations, the tether <NUM> can have an effective length that is greater than <NUM>.

As shown by <FIG>, insert <NUM>, sometimes referred to as a pill, is connected to portion <NUM> of flexible tether <NUM>. In the example illustrated, insert <NUM> is non-spherical for one-way insertion/withdrawal with respect to an interior of a collar <NUM> associated with wrist strap assemblies <NUM>. In the example illustrated, insert <NUM> has an oval bulbous shape having a length L1 and a width or diameter D1 (shown in <FIG>). In other implementations, insert <NUM> may have other non-spherical shapes. The non-spherical shape one-way insertion/withdrawal configuration of insert <NUM> assists in reducing accidental dislodgment of insert <NUM> from the interior of the collar <NUM>. In other implementations, insert <NUM> may have a spherical shape for insertion/withdrawal with respect to an interior of a collar <NUM> associated with wrist strap assemblies <NUM>.

Removal wrist strap assemblies <NUM> are configured to be releasably and interchangeably connected to racquet <NUM> through the interaction of insert <NUM> and collar <NUM> which cooperate to form a connector. Wrist straps <NUM> comprise loops sized or configured to extend about the wrist and/or hand that is grasping handle <NUM>. Wrist straps <NUM> may be formed from a sweat absorbent material or a non-sweat absorbent material. Wrist straps <NUM> may be formed from a fabric material, a rubber material, a synthetic rubber material, a leather material, a synthetic leather material, a polymer and/or the like. Wrist straps <NUM> may comprise ropes and/or cords and/or may comprise bands.

Wrist strap <NUM> of the wrist strap assembly <NUM>-<NUM> has a different construction than the construction of wrist strap <NUM> of wrist strap assembly <NUM>-<NUM>. In the example illustrated, wrist strap <NUM> of wrist strap assemblies <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> are differently sized. In the example illustrated, wrist strap <NUM> of wrist strap assembly <NUM>-<NUM> has a smaller diameter loop as compared to the diameter of the loop formed by wrist strap <NUM> of wrist strap assembly <NUM>-<NUM>. In some implementations, the width or thickness of the different wrist straps <NUM> of the different wrist strap assemblies <NUM>-<NUM>-<NUM> may be different. For example, in implementations where wrist straps <NUM> comprise a band, one of wrist straps <NUM> may have a greater band width as compared to the other of wrist straps <NUM>. In some implementations, wrist straps <NUM> of assemblies <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> are formed from different materials having different properties, such as different elasticity properties or different moisture absorbing properties. In other implementations, the wrist strap <NUM> may have a slip knot or looped structure that readily adjusts to the size of the user's wrist when worn.

Collar <NUM> and insert <NUM> form a wrist strap connector. Collars <NUM> of wrist strap assemblies <NUM> are similar to one another. <FIG> is a sectional view of an example collar <NUM>. As shown by <FIG>, collar <NUM> comprises a body <NUM> connected to wrist strap <NUM> and including an interior <NUM> configured to receive at least insert <NUM> with flexible tether <NUM> extending from insert <NUM> to an exterior of body <NUM>. In the example illustrated, interior <NUM> comprises an insert receiving portion <NUM> and a tether passage <NUM> which are sized to concurrently receive insert <NUM> and portion <NUM> of flexible tether <NUM>. In the example illustrated, portion <NUM> of interior <NUM> has a length L2 and a width or diameter D2. Length L2 is greater or equal to length L1 while diameter/width D2 is greater than or equal to diameter/width D1. Portion <NUM> of interior <NUM> has a width W3 greater than the thickness or width of portion <NUM> of flexible tether <NUM>.

In other implementations where insert <NUM> is to have other shapes, portion <NUM> of interior <NUM> may also have a different shape configured to receive insert <NUM>. In the example illustrated, portion <NUM> has a shape corresponding to the shape of insert <NUM>. In other implementations, portion <NUM> of interior <NUM> may have shapes that do not necessarily correspond to the shape of insert <NUM>, but which are sized to receive insert <NUM>. Tether passage <NUM> of interior <NUM> extends from portion <NUM> to and through an axial end <NUM> of body <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates collar <NUM> receiving insert <NUM> and portion <NUM> of flexible tether <NUM>. As shown by <FIG>, collar <NUM> comprises a side opening <NUM> and a side slot <NUM>. Side opening <NUM> is in communication with or opens into portion <NUM> of interior <NUM>. Side opening <NUM> is configured to receive insert <NUM> when insert is in a particular orientation during such insertion. In the example illustrated, side opening <NUM> is configured to receive insert <NUM> when the nose <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) is first inserted into side opening <NUM>, such that the longitudinal axis <NUM> of insert <NUM> extends perpendicular to side opening <NUM>, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis <NUM> along which tether passage <NUM> of interior <NUM> extends. In some implementations, side opening <NUM> has a width W4 greater than or equal to the width or diameter D1 of insert <NUM> and has a length L3 less than the length L1 of insert <NUM>. In some implementations, the width W4 is less than the diameter D2 and the length L3 is less than the length L2 of interior <NUM> such that portion <NUM> of interior <NUM> forms an interior cavity dimensioned larger than the dimensions of side opening <NUM>.

Side slot <NUM> is in communication with or opens into portion <NUM> of interior <NUM>. Side slot <NUM> extends from side opening <NUM> to and through the axial end <NUM> of collar <NUM>. Side slot <NUM> is configured to receive flexible tether <NUM> such that flexible tether <NUM> may extend from insert <NUM> (received within portion <NUM> of interior) out an axial end <NUM> of collar <NUM>. In some implementations, side slot <NUM> has a width W5 smaller than a corresponding width of flexible tether <NUM>. In implementations, side slot <NUM> has a width W5 less than the width W3 and less than the width of flexible tether <NUM>, wherein edge portions of side slot resiliently flex during insertion of tether <NUM> and/or wherein the diameter or thickness of tether <NUM> may be temporarily reduced during insertion such as by placing tether <NUM> in tension or pushing tether <NUM> through side slot <NUM>.

In such implementations, portions of body <NUM> along side slot <NUM> may be resiliently flexible to accommodate the sideways insertion of flexible tether <NUM> through side slot <NUM> or the sideways withdrawal of flexible tether <NUM> through side slot <NUM>. In some implementations, body <NUM> may be formed from an inflexible mass of material, but wherein regions of body <NUM> adjacent to side slot <NUM> are sufficiently thin or otherwise dimensioned so as to be resiliently flexible. In other implementations, the outer perimeter of side slot <NUM> may be formed from a material different than remaining portions of body <NUM>. In some implementations, the outer edge of side slot <NUM> may have a resiliently flexible lip formed from a resiliently flexible material that is over molded or otherwise affixed to the remainder of body <NUM>. For example, the outer edge of side slot <NUM> may be formed from a rubber, a synthetic rubber or other material that may be more resiliently flexible or elastic as compared to remaining portions of body <NUM>.

In some implementations, the width W3 or the width W5 can be sized to receive only one portion of the tether <NUM>. In other words, the tether <NUM> is typically a looped cord which has two portion extending from the insert or pill <NUM>. In such implementations, the only way for the tether <NUM> to extend through the side slot <NUM> is if the tether portions enter the side slot <NUM> one at a time (one before the other) because the width W3 or W5 is too small to allow both portions of the tether <NUM> to enter the side slot <NUM> side by side. Such a configuration further inhibits the inadvertent disconnection or release of the strap assembly <NUM> from the handle <NUM>.

<FIG>, <FIG> illustrate one example method for connecting insert <NUM> to collar <NUM> so as to connect racquet <NUM> to removable wrist strap assembly <NUM>-<NUM> or <NUM>-<NUM>. <FIG> and <FIG> are taken along the longitudinal centerline of collar <NUM> during connection with insert <NUM>. <FIG> and <FIG> are taken through collar <NUM> along line 5B-5B of <FIG> during the connection of insert <NUM> to collar <NUM>.

As shown by <FIG>, connection of insert <NUM> to collar <NUM> may be initiated by centering the longitudinal axis <NUM> of insert <NUM> with respect to side opening <NUM>, wherein axis <NUM> is perpendicular to the slot axis <NUM> along which slot <NUM> extends from side opening <NUM> to the end <NUM> of collar <NUM>. Although the nose <NUM> is illustrated as being inserted until contacting the floor of interior portion <NUM>, in other implementations, the insertion of insert <NUM> may be terminated prior to nose <NUM> reaching the floor of interior portion <NUM>.

As shown by <FIG>, once insert <NUM> has been sufficiently inserted into interior portion <NUM> of collar <NUM> through side opening <NUM>, insert <NUM> is pivoted about its transverse axis <NUM> in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM>, moving flexible tether <NUM> into and through side slot <NUM>. Such pivoting may be achieved by pulling collar <NUM> in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM> while pulling flexible tether <NUM> in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM>.

As shown by <FIG>, pivoting of insert <NUM> about axis <NUM> may be continued until flexible tether <NUM> has been fully pulled through side slot <NUM> into the tether passage <NUM> and such that flexible tether <NUM> extends through and beyond end <NUM> of collar <NUM>. In the position shown in <FIG>, during use of wrist strap <NUM>, forces upon flexible tether <NUM> occur in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM>, wherein collar <NUM> inhibits the withdrawal of insert <NUM>. In addition, because length L1 of insert <NUM> is greater than the length L3 of side opening, insert <NUM> cannot be withdrawn in a sideways fashion through side opening <NUM>.

When the currently connected wrist strap assembly <NUM>-<NUM> is to be disconnected from racquet <NUM>, the reverse process may be carried out. In particular, insert <NUM> is first rotated about axis <NUM> in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM> in <FIG>. During such pivoting, flexible tether <NUM> is pulled through side slot <NUM> and withdrawn from tether passage <NUM>. Such pivoting is continued until axis <NUM> of insert <NUM> is once again perpendicular to the slot axis <NUM>. Once in the position shown in <FIG>, flexible tether <NUM> and insert <NUM> may be pulled in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM> in <FIG> to withdraw insert <NUM> through side opening <NUM> and from interior portion <NUM>, disconnecting racquet <NUM> from the removable wrist strap assembly <NUM>-<NUM>.

<FIG> are sectional views illustrating racquet and removable wrist strap system <NUM> comprising an alternative collar <NUM> in place of collar <NUM> described above. <FIG> is a sectional view taken along a longitudinal centerline of collar <NUM> while <FIG> is a sectional view taken along line 5B-5B of <FIG>. <FIG> illustrate an example of how side opening <NUM> may be made smaller to more securely retain insert <NUM> within collar <NUM> and to more securely retain system <NUM> in a connected state.

Collar <NUM> is similar to collar <NUM> except that side opening <NUM> is smaller and that portions of collar <NUM> adjacent to or about side opening <NUM> are resiliently flexible. In the example illustrated, those portions of body <NUM> adjacent to side opening <NUM> are resiliently flexible to flex during insertion of insert <NUM> into and withdrawal of insert <NUM> from portion <NUM> of interior <NUM>. In the example illustrated, body <NUM>, or at least portions of body <NUM> about side opening <NUM> are formed from a resiliently flexible material configured to resiliently flex in response to pivoting of insert <NUM> within interior portion <NUM>. As shown by <FIG>, during pivoting of insert <NUM>, portion <NUM> of collar <NUM> may flex downwardly (pivoting about a living hinge <NUM> in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM>) as insert <NUM> is pivoted to the orientation shown in <FIG>. Once it is pivoted past this point, portion <NUM> may result only returned to the position or state shown <FIG>. Conversely, during withdrawal of insert <NUM> and disconnection of removable wrist strap assembly <NUM>-<NUM> portion <NUM> may pivot about the living hinge <NUM> in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM> until insert <NUM> has attained the orientation shown in <FIG>, ready for withdrawal from interior portion <NUM>. Such resilient flexing permits insert <NUM> to be snapped or popped into interior <NUM>, creating a tactile and/or audible sensation confirming full receipt of insert <NUM> into the interior of collar <NUM>. Upon resiliently returning to their initial states, portion <NUM> assists in retaining insert <NUM> and flexible tether <NUM> within the interior <NUM> of collar <NUM>.

In some implementations, body <NUM> may be formed from an inflexible mass of material, but wherein regions of body <NUM> adjacent to side opening <NUM> are sufficiently thin or otherwise dimensioned so as to be resiliently flexible. In other implementations, portion <NUM> adjacent to side opening <NUM> may be formed from a material different than remaining portions of body <NUM>. In some implementations, portion <NUM> may comprise a resiliently flexible lip formed from a resiliently flexible material that is over molded or otherwise affixed to the remainder of body <NUM>. For example, portion <NUM> may be formed from a rubber, a synthetic rubber or other material that may be more resiliently flexible or elastic as compared to remaining portions of body <NUM>.

Insert <NUM> and collar <NUM> facilitate quick and easy disconnection of wrist strap assembly <NUM>-<NUM> from racquet <NUM>. As a result, a player may disconnect the wrist strap assembly <NUM>-<NUM> when the player no longer wishes to use the wrist strap <NUM>-<NUM>. The player may also easily and quickly replace or exchange the wrist strap <NUM>-<NUM> in circumstances such as when the wrist strap has become sweaty during play, such as when the wrist strap has been damaged and needs replacement, or such as when the player desires a different wrist strap, such as wrist strap assembly <NUM>-<NUM>, having a different size or formed from a different material.

<FIG> illustrates portions of an example sports racquet and removable wrist strap system <NUM>. System <NUM> is similar to system <NUM> described above except that insert <NUM> is coupled to wrist strap <NUM> of wrist strap assembly <NUM> and that collar <NUM> is connected to flexible tether <NUM>. The remaining components of system <NUM> which correspond to components of system <NUM> are numbered similarly.

As shown by <FIG>, insert <NUM> and collar <NUM> are similar to insert <NUM> and collar <NUM> of system <NUM> except for the alternative connections and orientations of such components. Side slot <NUM> extends from side opening <NUM> in a direction away from location at which flexible tether <NUM> connects to body <NUM> of collar <NUM>. Side slot <NUM> extends from side opening <NUM> in a direction towards wrist strap <NUM> of wrist strap assembly <NUM>. Instead of receiving flexible tether <NUM>, side slot <NUM> receives a strap, cord, band or other flexible line <NUM> which is connected to insert <NUM> at one and which is connected to or is formed as part of wrist strap <NUM> at the other end. As with tether <NUM> of system <NUM>, side slot <NUM> of system <NUM> facilitates sideways insertion and passage of a portion of wrist strap <NUM> (flexible line <NUM>) through a side of body <NUM> into tether passage <NUM> of interior <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). Similar to system <NUM>, system <NUM> facilitates quick and easy disconnection of wrist strap assembly <NUM>-<NUM> from racquet <NUM>. As a result, a player may disconnect the wrist strap assembly <NUM> when the player no longer wishes to use the wrist strap assembly <NUM>. The player may also easily and quickly replace or exchange the wrist strap assembly <NUM> in circumstances such as when the wrist strap has become sweaty during play, such as when the wrist strap assembly <NUM> has been damaged and needs replacement, or such as when the player desires a different wrist strap assembly having a different wrist strap size or a wrist strap formed from a different material.

<FIG> illustrates an example sports racquet <NUM> or sports paddle, which is part of a larger sports racquet and removable wrist strap system <NUM>. Sports racquet <NUM> comprises head <NUM>, handle <NUM>, flexible tether <NUM> and insert <NUM>. Sports racquet <NUM> is for use with the example removable wrist strap assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG> and comprising wrist strap <NUM> and collar <NUM>.

Head <NUM> is similar to head <NUM> described above in that head <NUM> comprise a widened and enlarged portion of racquet <NUM> configured for striking a projectile. In contrast to head <NUM>, head <NUM> comprises a non-strung projectile striking region <NUM>. In some implementations, region <NUM> is imperforate. In some implementations, region <NUM> may include perforations or openings. In some implementations, head <NUM> may be configured as part of a padel paddle, a pickle ball paddle, a platform tennis paddle or other forms of paddles which utilize solid, hollow, celled, or non-strung projectile striking regions. As should be appreciated, the size, shape and exact nature of head <NUM> may vary depending upon the projectile to be struck and the sport in which racquet or paddle <NUM> is to be used.

Handle <NUM> is similar to handle <NUM> in that handle <NUM> provides a cylindrical or polygonal shaft about which a player's hand may grasp and hold racquet <NUM>. Handle <NUM> extends in a direction away from head <NUM>, terminating at an axial end <NUM>, or butt end. In some implementations, handle <NUM> may have an outer wrap of a leather, synthetic leather, rubber, fabric or other material to facilitate gripping of handle <NUM>. In some implementations, handle <NUM> may omit such an outer wrap. In some implementations, handle <NUM> may have an outer texture to facilitate gripping of handle <NUM>. In some implementations, handle <NUM> is indirectly coupled to head <NUM> by throat or neck region. Handle <NUM> may variety of different sizes and lengths depending upon the sport for which racquet <NUM> is configured to be used.

As shown by <FIG>, handle <NUM> comprises a cavity <NUM> projecting from the axial end <NUM> of handle <NUM> towards head <NUM>. Handle <NUM> further comprises a rod <NUM> located within cavity <NUM> and about which flexible tether <NUM> may be tied or are otherwise secured. In other implementations, handle <NUM> may comprise a panel or other structure within cavity <NUM> that comprises an opening through which flexible tether <NUM> may be tied or otherwise secured.

Flexible tether <NUM> comprises an elongate flexible or bendable cord, band, string or other flexible line having a first portion <NUM> secured to rod <NUM> within cavity <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> secured to insert <NUM>. In the example illustrated, flexible tether <NUM> comprises a single line, the opposite ends of which are both affixed to insert <NUM>. In some implementations, those portions of flexible tether <NUM> between the ends secured to insert <NUM>, form a loop which wraps about rod <NUM>. In some implementations, an entirety of the loop is wrapped about rod <NUM>, wherein insert <NUM> is then passed through the loop, between rod <NUM> and the loop to secure flexible tether <NUM> to rod <NUM>. In yet other implementations, flexible tether <NUM> may be secured to rod <NUM> or other structures within cavity <NUM> in other fashions.

In some implementations, flexible tether <NUM> may be formed from a leather or synthetic leather material. In some implementations, flexible leather <NUM> may be formed from a rubber, synthetic rubber or polymer material. In some implementations, flexible tether <NUM> may be formed from a natural or synthetic fiber material.

In the example illustrated, the flexible tether <NUM> has an effective length of no greater than <NUM> extending from an end <NUM> of the handle <NUM>. In some implementations, flexible tether has an effective length of at least <NUM> and no greater than <NUM>, and nominally <NUM>. As a result, flexible tether <NUM> has sufficient length to facilitate manual positioning and control over the orientation of insert <NUM> for facilitating the insertion and withdrawal of insert <NUM> with respect to a collar <NUM> of removal wrist strap assembly <NUM>, yet sufficiently limited in length to reduce a likelihood of the insert <NUM> and collar <NUM> contacting or hitting the player's hand or wrist during play or contacting the butt end or axial end <NUM> of the handle <NUM> during use. Such contact between the insert <NUM> and collar <NUM> and the player's hand, wrist or racquet handle might otherwise produce noise or might otherwise be annoying to the player. In some implementations, the flexible tether <NUM> has an effective length of <NUM> beyond axial end <NUM>. In other implementations, the tether <NUM> can have a length greater than <NUM>.

As shown by <FIG>, insert <NUM>, sometimes referred to as a pill, is non-spherical for one-way insertion/withdrawal with respect to an interior of a collar <NUM> associated with wrist strap assembly <NUM>. In the example illustrated, insert <NUM> has an oval bulbous shape having a length L1 and a diameter D1. In other implementations, insert <NUM> may have other non-spherical shapes. The non-spherical shape, one-way insertion/withdrawal configuration of insert <NUM> assists in reducing accidental dislodgment of insert <NUM> from the interior of the collar <NUM>. In other implementations, insert <NUM> may have a spherical shape for insertion/withdrawal with respect to an interior of a collar <NUM> associated with wrist strap assembly <NUM>.

As shown by <FIG>, handle <NUM> further comprises an end cap <NUM>, or a butt cap, covering cavity <NUM>. End cap <NUM> further comprises opening <NUM> through which flexible tether <NUM> extends. In some implementations, opening <NUM> is sized smaller than the smallest dimension of insert <NUM> to inhibit insert <NUM> from being pulled or otherwise moved into cavity <NUM>. In some implementations, end cap <NUM> may be omitted.

As shown by <FIG>, wrist strap <NUM> comprises strap <NUM> and padding <NUM>. Strap <NUM> comprises an elongate fabric strap having a first end <NUM> tied to collar <NUM> and a second end stitched or otherwise fastened to itself to form a loop <NUM> about an intermediate portion of strap <NUM>. Padding <NUM> comprises a layer of compressible material affixed to strap <NUM> between end <NUM> and loop <NUM>. The overall size of the wrist receiving portion of wrist strap <NUM> may be adjusted by sliding portions of strap <NUM> through the loop <NUM>. In other implementations, wrist strap <NUM> may omit padding <NUM>, be formed from other materials, or may have other configurations.

Collar <NUM> is connected to end <NUM> of strap <NUM>. <FIG> illustrate collar <NUM>. Collar <NUM> comprises a body <NUM> having an interior <NUM>, a first axial end <NUM> and a second axial end <NUM>. Interior <NUM> is sized to receive insert <NUM> when the longitudinal axis <NUM> of insert <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis <NUM> of collar <NUM> and when the longitudinal axis <NUM> of insert <NUM> is parallel to the longitudinal axis <NUM> of collar <NUM>. Interior <NUM> is further sized to facilitate pivoting of insert <NUM> between a first position where the longitudinal axis <NUM> of insert <NUM> is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis <NUM> and a second position in which the longitudinal axis <NUM> is parallel to the longitudinal axis <NUM>. As shown by <FIG>, interior <NUM> forms a tether passage <NUM> that opens through the axial end <NUM> of collar <NUM>.

Collar <NUM> further comprises side opening <NUM> and side slot <NUM>. Side opening <NUM> extends through a side of body <NUM> and opens into interior <NUM>. In the example illustrated, side opening <NUM> comprises a circular opening having a diameter equal to or slightly larger than diameter D1 of insert <NUM> but less than the length L1 of insert <NUM>. Although illustrated as being circular, in other implementations, side opening <NUM> may have other shapes while limiting the insertion of insert <NUM> into interior <NUM> to a predefined orientation or set of orientations.

Side slot <NUM> extends from side opening <NUM> to the end <NUM> of collar <NUM>. Side slot <NUM> opens into the interior <NUM>. In the example illustrated, side slot <NUM> is sized to allow flexible tether <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) to pass therethrough into interior <NUM>. In the example illustrated, side slot <NUM> has a width W sized to receive a single one of the two lines forming flexible tether <NUM>, while inhibiting the concurrent side-by-side passage of both of the lines <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> (shown in <FIG>) therethrough. In contrast, side slot <NUM> is sized to allow consecutive movement or passage of lines <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> through side slot <NUM> into interior <NUM> and through the axial opening <NUM> of collar <NUM>. As a result, the width of side slot <NUM> inhibits accidental withdrawal of flexible tether <NUM> through side slot <NUM>.

In other implementations, side slot <NUM> may have other widths. For example, side slot <NUM> may have a width which may necessitate constriction of each of lines <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> during consecutive passage of the lines of flexible tether <NUM> through side slot <NUM> (requiring one by one passage of the lines <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> through the side slot <NUM>). In some implementations, side slot <NUM> may have a greater width to allow concurrent side-by-side passage of lines <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> through side slot <NUM>. In some implementations, flexible tether <NUM> may be formed from a single line rather than a pair of lines.

In some implementations, portions of collar <NUM> adjacent to or about side opening <NUM>, such as portions <NUM> shown in <FIG>, may be dimensioned or formed from materials so as to resiliently flex during pivoting of the example insert <NUM> within interior <NUM>. In such implementations, a relative size difference between the size of side opening <NUM> and the length L1 of insert <NUM> may be greater, potentially more reliably retaining the insert <NUM> within interior <NUM>. In addition, the flexing of portions <NUM> during the pivoting of the insert <NUM> within interior <NUM>, following insertion of insert <NUM> or prior to withdrawal of insert <NUM>, may provide an audible or tactile sensation to indicate the completion of such pivoting. In yet other implementations, opening <NUM> and interior <NUM> may be sized relative to insert <NUM> to permit pivoting of insert <NUM> without flexing or deformation of portions of collar <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate an example method for connecting racquet <NUM> to removable wrist strap assembly <NUM>. Although <FIG> illustrate racquet <NUM> without end cap <NUM>, it should be appreciated that in some implementations, racquet <NUM> may be additionally provided with end cap <NUM>. The connection of racquet <NUM> to removable wrist strap assembly <NUM> may be carried out with end cap <NUM> in place.

As shown by <FIG>, insert <NUM> is aligned with side opening <NUM> such that the longitudinal axis <NUM> is centered with respect side opening <NUM> such that longitudinal axis <NUM> is perpendicular to longitudinal axis along which side slot <NUM> extends. As indicated by arrow <NUM>, insert <NUM> is inserted into side opening <NUM> until insert <NUM> is received within the interior <NUM> of collar <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

As further shown by <FIG>, once insert <NUM> has passed through side opening <NUM>, flexible tether <NUM> is pulled through side slot <NUM> as indicated by arrow <NUM>. During such action, lines <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> of flexible tether <NUM> are stacked upon one another and are consecutively moved through side slot <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates flexible tether <NUM> after flexible tether <NUM> has been passed through side slot <NUM>. As shown by <FIG>, both lines of flexible tether <NUM> extend through the tether passage <NUM> and through the end <NUM> of collar <NUM>. As shown by <FIG>, collar <NUM> retains insert <NUM> within interior <NUM> despite forces in the direction indicated by arrows <NUM>.

To disconnect racquet <NUM> from removable wrist strap assembly <NUM>, insert <NUM> is removed from the interior <NUM> of collar <NUM>. When the currently connected wrist strap assembly <NUM> is to be disconnected from racquet <NUM>, the reverse process may be carried out. In particular, insert <NUM> is first rotated so as to pull flexible tether <NUM> through side slot <NUM>. During such pulling, lines <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> of tether <NUM> are stacked so as to consecutively pass through side slot <NUM>. Pulling of flexible tether <NUM> through side slot <NUM> pivots insert <NUM> from the position shown in <FIG> in which the longitudinal axis <NUM> of insert <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) extends parallel to the longitudinal axis <NUM> of collar <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) to the orientation shown in <FIG> in which the longitudinal axis <NUM> of insert <NUM> extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis <NUM> of collar <NUM>. Once in the perpendicular orientation shown <FIG>, within collar <NUM>, insert <NUM> may be pulled and withdrawn from collar <NUM>, through side opening <NUM>, disconnecting racquet <NUM> from removable wrist strap assembly <NUM>. Thereafter, racquet <NUM> may be used without a removable wrist strap assembly or a different wrist strap assembly may be connected to racquet <NUM> in the same fashion described above with respect to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrate an example sports racquet and removable wrist strap system <NUM>. <FIG> illustrate another example collar <NUM> for releasably retaining insert <NUM> and connecting racquet <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) to a removable wrist strap assembly, such as assembly <NUM>-<NUM>. Those components of system <NUM> which correspond to components of system <NUM> are numbered similarly and/or are shown in <FIG>.

Collar <NUM> is similar to collar <NUM> described above except that collar <NUM> comprises side opening <NUM> and side slot <NUM>. Side opening <NUM> is sized smaller than insert <NUM>, but is bordered by resiliently flexible rim <NUM>. Rim <NUM> extends about side opening <NUM> and is sufficiently large and sufficiently flexible so as to bend or flex during the insertion of insert <NUM> into the interior <NUM> of collar <NUM> as indicated by arrow <NUM>. Likewise, rim <NUM> is sufficiently large and sufficiently flexible so as to bend or flex during the withdrawal of insert <NUM> from the interior <NUM> of collar <NUM>. As a result, insert <NUM> may be inserted into interior <NUM> in a sideways orientation, wherein axis <NUM> of insert <NUM> is parallel to axis <NUM> of collar <NUM>. Upon full insertion of insert <NUM> into interior <NUM>, rim <NUM> resiliently returns to its initial shape (shown in <FIG>), to inhibit inadvertent withdrawal of insert <NUM> through side opening <NUM>. In the example illustrated, rim <NUM> is sufficiently flexible to allow insert <NUM> to be manually pushed through side opening <NUM> while flexing rim <NUM>, yet sufficiently rigid to inhibit insert <NUM> from accidentally falling through rim <NUM>. In some implementations, the resilient flexible nature of rim <NUM> may be achieved by providing rim <NUM> with a reduced thickness to facilitate such flexing. In other implementations, rim <NUM> may be formed from a material different than the remaining material of body <NUM>, wherein rim <NUM> is otherwise affixed to or over molded with respect to the remainder of body <NUM>.

Side slot <NUM> has a width less than a corresponding with of flexible tether <NUM>. In the example illustrated, side slot <NUM> is likewise bordered by resiliently flexible edges <NUM>. Edges <NUM> are resiliently flexible so as to bend during manual insertion of flexible tether <NUM> through side slot <NUM> or doing withdrawal of flexible tether <NUM> through side slot <NUM>. In some implementations, the resilient flexible nature of edges <NUM> may be achieved by providing edges <NUM> with a reduced thickness to facilitate such flexing. In other implementations, edges <NUM> may be formed from a material different than the remaining material of body <NUM>, wherein edges <NUM> or otherwise affixed to or over molded with respect to the remainder of body <NUM>. Edges <NUM> facilitate passage of flexible tether <NUM> into tether passage <NUM> of interior <NUM> while assisting in retaining flexible tether <NUM> within tether passage <NUM> once inserted.

<FIG> illustrate an example sports racquet and removable wrist strap system <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates another example collar <NUM> for releasably retaining insert <NUM> and connecting racquet <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) to a removable wrist strap assembly, such as assembly <NUM>-<NUM>. Those components of system <NUM> which correspond to components of system <NUM> are numbered similarly and/or are shown in <FIG>.

Collar <NUM> is similar collar <NUM> described above except that collar <NUM> comprises side opening <NUM> and side slot <NUM>. Side opening <NUM> and side slot <NUM> are each sufficiently large for the passage of insert <NUM> and flexible tether <NUM>, respectively, in a sideways fashion into the interior <NUM> of collar <NUM>. Each of side opening <NUM> and side slot <NUM> have inflexible rims or edges.

As shown by <FIG> and <FIG>, collar <NUM> additionally comprises an outer sleeve <NUM> which at least partially extends about body <NUM> and has a side opening <NUM> overlying or aligned with side opening <NUM> and a side slot <NUM> aligned with and overlying side slot <NUM>, wherein side opening <NUM> and side slot <NUM> are dimensioned smaller than the corresponding dimensions of insert <NUM> and tether <NUM>. In some implementations, outer sleeve <NUM> may be over molded about body <NUM>. In other implementations, outer sleeve <NUM> may be slid onto or otherwise affixed to body <NUM>.

Outer sleeve <NUM> comprises overhanging portions <NUM> that project over side opening <NUM> and which are sufficiently large and sufficiently flexible so as to bend to allow insert <NUM> to be inserted in a sideways fashion through side opening <NUM> as indicated by arrow <NUM>. Likewise, flexible tether <NUM> may also be moved in a sideways fashion through side slot <NUM>. As a result, insert <NUM> may be inserted into interior <NUM> in a sideways orientation, wherein axis <NUM> of insert <NUM> is parallel to axis <NUM> of collar <NUM>. Upon full insertion of insert <NUM> into interior <NUM>, overhanging portions <NUM> resiliently return to their initial shape to inhibit inadvertent withdrawal of insert <NUM> through side opening <NUM>. In the example illustrated, overhanging portions <NUM> are sufficiently flexible to allow insert <NUM> to be manually pushed through side opening <NUM> while flexing overhanging portions <NUM>, yet sufficiently rigid to inhibit insert <NUM> from accidentally falling through overhanging portions <NUM>.

Collar <NUM> similar collar <NUM> described above except that collar <NUM> omits outer sleeve <NUM>. In addition, collar <NUM> has an extended interior <NUM>, having a length extending from side opening <NUM> to the axial end <NUM> which is sufficiently long for receiving at least a majority, and in some implementations, the entirety of the axial length of insert <NUM>. As a result, insert <NUM> may be inserted through side opening <NUM> in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM>. Thereafter, insert <NUM> may be pulled in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM> until insert <NUM> has been moved into an insert holding region <NUM> below side slot <NUM>. Because forces experienced by system <NUM> are largely in the direction indicated by arrows <NUM>, insert <NUM> is unlikely to accidentally move in both a direction opposite to arrow <NUM> and in a direction opposite to arrow <NUM>.

In the example illustrated, system <NUM> additionally comprises an extension post <NUM> coupled between insert <NUM> and flexible tether <NUM>. Extension post <NUM> has a lower degree of flexibility as compared to flexible tether <NUM>. Extension post <NUM> assists in facilitating the withdrawal of insert <NUM> from the interior <NUM> of collar <NUM>. In particular, extension post <NUM> may be manually grassed pushed in a direction opposite arrow <NUM> until insert <NUM> is aligned below side opening <NUM>. Thereafter, insert <NUM> may be lifted through side opening <NUM> in a direction opposite to that of arrow <NUM>. In some implementations, extension post <NUM> has a length equal to or greater than the extended length of interior <NUM> which forms insert holding region <NUM>. This extended length facilitates manual gripping of post <NUM> to lift insert <NUM> through side opening <NUM> and to likewise move extension post <NUM> through side slot <NUM>. In some implementations, extension post <NUM> may be omitted, wherein flexible tether <NUM> is directly connected to insert <NUM>.

As shown by stippling, in some implementations, collar <NUM> may additionally comprise a resiliently flexible rubber-like lip <NUM> about the axial opening <NUM> through which extension post <NUM> (or tether <NUM>) extends). Lip <NUM> assist in gripping post <NUM> to inhibit accidental sliding movement of post <NUM> and of insert <NUM> in a direction opposite arrow <NUM>. Lip <NUM> assists in retaining insert <NUM> in the insert holding region <NUM>, inhibiting insert <NUM> from accidentally sliding to the left so as to underlie side opening <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating portions of an example sports racquet and removable wrist strap system <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates an example of how a wrist strap may be releasably connected to a wrist strap connector that is tethered from an end of a racquet. System <NUM> comprises sports racquet <NUM> and wrist strap assembly <NUM>. Sports racquet <NUM> comprises head <NUM> or <NUM>, shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, respectively, handle <NUM> (described above with respect to <FIG>), flexible tether <NUM> (described above with respect to <FIG>) and a wrist strap connector <NUM> for releasably connecting to either of wrist strap assemblies <NUM>. Flexible tether <NUM> has an effective length extending from an end of the handle <NUM> to the wrist strap connector <NUM>, the effective length being at least <NUM> and no greater than <NUM>. The wrist strap connector <NUM> may be more easily manipulated for releasable connection to the wrist strap assembly <NUM>. Because the effective length is no greater than <NUM>, the wrist strap connector <NUM> is less likely to bang or rattle about or constitute a nuisance to the player wearing the wrist strap assembly <NUM>.

Wrist strap connector <NUM> comprise a member secured to the end of tether <NUM> and having a passage <NUM> (shown in broken lines) therethrough. Passage <NUM> is sufficiently dimensioned or sized such that portions of wrist strap assembly <NUM> may be threaded or passed through passage <NUM> to facilitate releasable securement of wrist strap assembly <NUM> to strap connector <NUM> and sports racquet <NUM>.

Wrist strap assembly <NUM> is similar to wrist strap assembly <NUM> described above except that strap <NUM> has an end portion secured to or forming part of a flexible loop <NUM> rather than collar <NUM>. Flexible loop <NUM> is sufficiently sized and compressible so as to be threadable through passage <NUM> of wrist strap connector <NUM>. Flexible loop <NUM> is sufficiently sized such that strap <NUM> and padding <NUM> may be passed through loop <NUM>. In some implementations, padding <NUM> may be omitted, wherein strap <NUM> itself forms a loop for receiving the hand and wrist of a person or player using system <NUM>. As shown by <FIG>, wrist strap assembly <NUM> is releasably connected to sports racquet <NUM> by passing loop <NUM> through passage <NUM> and subsequently passing strap <NUM> and padding <NUM> through loop <NUM>. Removal or separation of wrist strap assembly <NUM> from sports racquet <NUM> may be achieved by passing strap <NUM> and padding <NUM> through loop <NUM> and then passing loop <NUM> through passage <NUM> of the strap connector <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating portions of an example sports racquet and removable wrist strap system <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates an example of how a wrist strap may be releasably connected to a wrist strap connector that is tethered from an end of a racquet. <FIG> further illustrates an example of how the length of the wrist strap assembly may be adjustable to suit a player's preferences. System <NUM> comprises sports racquet <NUM> (described above) and wrist strap assembly <NUM>.

Wrist strap assembly <NUM> is similar to wrist strap assembly <NUM> described above except that strap <NUM> omits padding <NUM> while forming a wrist receiving loop <NUM> and has an end portion secured to buckle <NUM> (portions of which are shown in section). Strap <NUM> and wrist receiving loop <NUM> are sufficiently thin or small and compressible so as to be capable of being threaded through passage buckle <NUM>. As shown by <FIG>, wrist strap assembly <NUM> is releasably connected to sports racquet <NUM> by passing loop <NUM> through passage <NUM> and subsequently passing strap <NUM> and loop <NUM> through buckle <NUM>. Buckle <NUM> has a crossbar <NUM> in opposite openings <NUM>, <NUM> which releasably grip strap <NUM> when strap <NUM> is under tension. Conversely, releasing such tension may buckle <NUM> to be repositioned along strap <NUM>, facilitating securement of buckle <NUM> at various positions along the length of strap <NUM> to adjust the overall distance separating wrist receiving loop <NUM> from wrist strap connector <NUM>. Removal or separation of wrist strap assembly <NUM> from sports racquet <NUM> may be achieved by passing strap <NUM> and loop <NUM> through buckle <NUM> and then passing loop <NUM> through passage <NUM> of the strap connector <NUM>.

Wrist strap assembly <NUM> is similar to wrist strap assembly <NUM> described above except that wrist strap assembly <NUM> comprises snap or lock connector <NUM> in place of buckle <NUM>. Those remaining components of system <NUM> which correspond to components of system <NUM> are numbered similarly.

Connector <NUM> is secured to an end <NUM> of cord or strap <NUM> while releasably gripping an intermediate portion of strap <NUM> which passes through connector <NUM>. Connector <NUM> may grip strap <NUM> at any of a multitude of different locations along the length of strap <NUM>, allowing the distance between the wrist receiving loop <NUM> and wrist strap connector <NUM> to be adjustable to suit the player's preferences. In the example illustrated, connector <NUM> comprises a single hole spring-loaded cord lock. <FIG> illustrate connector <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates connector <NUM> prior to the reception of cable <NUM>. As shown by <FIG>, connector <NUM> comprises a main body <NUM> having a first opening <NUM> therethrough and a second opening <NUM> and through which piston <NUM> is slidably received. Piston <NUM> includes an opening <NUM> and is resiliently biased by a compression spring <NUM> captured between piston <NUM> and an interior of body <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the depression of piston <NUM>, against compression spring <NUM>, to more fully align opening <NUM> with opening <NUM>. While openings <NUM> and <NUM> are held this aligned state, wrist receiving loop <NUM> and strap <NUM> may be passed through opening <NUM> and through opening <NUM>. Figure 31B illustrates the release of piston <NUM>. As a result, spring <NUM> resiliently urges piston <NUM> in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM> such that portions of piston <NUM> about opening <NUM> pinch strap <NUM> against portions of bodies <NUM> about opening <NUM>, gripping strap <NUM> and reducing the likelihood of strap <NUM> being further pulled through connector <NUM>. Manual depression of piston <NUM> allows strap <NUM> to be released, strap be slid or moved in either direction through openings <NUM> and <NUM>. By selectively locating connector <NUM> along the length of strap <NUM>, the spacing of wrist receiving loop <NUM> from wrist strap connector <NUM> and from handle <NUM> of sports racquet <NUM> may be adjusted to a player's preference.

To disconnect wrist strap assembly <NUM> from sports racquet <NUM>, piston <NUM> may be manually depressed to align openings <NUM> and <NUM> such that loop <NUM> may be passed through such openings. Thereafter, loop <NUM> may be passed through passage <NUM> to disconnect wrist strap assembly <NUM> from sports racquet <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating portions of an example sports racquet and removable wrist strap system <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates an example of how a wrist strap may be releasably connected to a wrist strap connector that is tethered from an end of a racquet. System <NUM> comprises sports racquet <NUM> and wrist strap assembly <NUM>.

Sports racquet <NUM> comprises head <NUM> or <NUM>, shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, respectively, handle <NUM> (described above with respect to <FIG>), flexible tether <NUM> (described above with respect to <FIG>) and a wrist strap connector <NUM>. Flexible tether <NUM> has an effective length extending from an end of the handle <NUM> to the wrist strap connector <NUM>, the effective length being at least <NUM> and no greater than <NUM>. Because the effective length is no greater than <NUM>, the wrist strap connector <NUM> is less likely to bang or rattle about or constitute a nuisance to the player wearing the wrist strap assembly <NUM>.

Wrist strap connector <NUM> comprise a first member or portion of a plastic quick side release connector, such as plastic side release buckle. Connector <NUM> is secured to tether <NUM>.

Wrist strap assembly <NUM> is similar to wrist strap assembly <NUM> described above except that strap <NUM> has an end portion secured to a second member or second portion of a plastic quick side release connector <NUM>, such as a plastic side release buckle. Connectors <NUM> and <NUM>, schematically shown, may comprise a "male" connector or buckle member, the hook end, and a "female" buckle or connector member, the insertion end. Pressing in on the sides of the connector buckle, pressing the two resilient plastic side prongs of the male connector, into the side openings of the female connector of the female connector member causes the side release connector or buckle to release, allowing the wrist strap assembly <NUM> to be disconnected from and separated from sports racquet <NUM>.

In some implementations connector <NUM> may comprise a buckle that grips cord <NUM> and that allows cord 3102B slid through the buckle, adjusting a distance between loop <NUM> and connector <NUM> and sports racquet <NUM>. In some limitations, connectors <NUM> comprises the male connector of the side release buckle or connector. In some implementations, connector <NUM> comprises the female or insert portion of the side release buckle or connector.

Claim 1:
A sports racquet and removable wrist strap system (<NUM>) comprising:
a head (<NUM>);
a handle (<NUM>) coupled to the head (<NUM>);
a flexible tether (<NUM>) extending from an end of the handle (<NUM>);
a wrist strap (<NUM>); and
a wrist strap connector releasably connecting the wrist strap (<NUM>) to the flexible tether (<NUM>), the wrist strap connector comprising:
a collar (<NUM>) connected to one of the wrist strap (<NUM>) and the flexible tether (<NUM>), the collar (<NUM>) having an interior (<NUM>) having a side opening (<NUM>) and a side slot (<NUM>) extending from the side opening (<NUM>); and
an insert (<NUM>) connected to the other of the wrist strap (<NUM>) and the flexible tether (<NUM>),
wherein the insert (<NUM>) is insertable into the interior (<NUM>) through the side opening (<NUM>) while portions of the wrist strap (<NUM>) or the flexible tether (<NUM>) are insertable into the interior (<NUM>) through the side slot (<NUM>).