AU2020201389A1

AU2020201389A1 - Sporting or amusement apparatus

Info

Publication number: AU2020201389A1
Application number: AU2020201389A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Clare Heasly
Original assignee: V O T Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Vot Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2008-05-19
Filing date: 2020-02-26
Publication date: 2020-03-12
Also published as: AU2016204874A1; GB2471636A; GB201019347D0; AU2018202421A1; WO2009140717A1; AU2022201361A1; NZ589146A; AU2009250323A1

Abstract

SPORTING OR AMUSEMENT APPARATUS According to the present invention, there is provided a goal assembly including: a frame (11) defining the border or mouth of the goal; a controller (13); at least one scoring sensor (17) for detecting passage of a ball past the frame and into the goal, the sensor then providing a signal to the controller (13); and a visual display system Including one or more light source (14 or 14'); the visual display system being activated by the controller (13) so as to provide a visual display. Preferably, the visual display incorporates a changing or non-static light pattern on part or all of the frame (11) or a post (12) or surface on which the frame is disposed, As well as the visual display system, the goal assembly may incorporate an audio transmitter (20) which is activated by the controller (13) so as to provide an audio transmission. The frame (11) may, for example. be a hoop such as the ring of a netball goal or the hoop section of the basket of a basketball goal or the frame forming the mouth of a soccer goal.

Description

SPORTING OR AMUSEMENT APPARATUS

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to sporting or amusement apparatus, and in particular a netball, basketball or soccer goal assembly with interactive features.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

There are many examples of sporting equipment (such as the equipment used on netball or basketball courts) which incorporate coaching features, or features to enhance player or spectator interest.

United States Patent No. 5,684,453 entitled Basketball Training Apparatus discloses electronic basketball training apparatus which incorporates a switch sensor in the net to sense when a goal is made, and laser beam sensors on the floor to locate the player's position. The apparatus computes statistics and results from the information provided by the sensors, so as to evaluate the player's performance. It can instruct the player by means of automated commands, and display or print off results and statistics. For example, the apparatus's display unit can provide an automatically varying display of visual representations in accordance with the player's results and statistics and, at the end of a training session, the player's statistics can be printed off so as to provide the player with feedback and encourage better play.

United States Patent No. 6,280,352 entitled Apparatus and Method for Performing Timed Basketball Drills discloses apparatus incorporating a basketball goal assembly and one or more goal return unit(s). A transmitter provides an encoded signal from the basketball goal assembly or the ball return unit(s) to a timer/counter. The timer/counter senses, processes, stores and displays a number of results or statistics, including the number of goals scored.

United States Patent No. 6,389,368 entitled Basketball Goal Sensor for Detecting Shots Attempted and Made discloses basketball score-keeping apparatus incorporating sensors or other detection devices for detecting and tracking a player's shooting characteristics. For example, the apparatus can track the trajectory of a basketball being shot at a goal, and can also track a player's shooting statistics. The apparatus may incorporate a display.

United States Patent Application No. 2005/0130772 entitled Automated Ball Game Training and Playing System discloses a ball game system for training and/or play comprising one or

2020201389 26 Feb 2020 more playing area(s) suitably large to accommodate running and jumping players. The system includes a basketball hoop, an automatic ball feeder and sensors for monitoring the positions and trajectories of one or more players and/or balls on the playing area(s). The sensors provide to a computer system position and trajectory information relating to the player(s) and ball(s) on the playing area(s). In particular, a scoring sensor provides information as to whether a ball has passed through the hoop. From that information, the computer creates a visual display and/or audio output reflective of player performance. Visual display options include a visual display of the player's statistics, and audio output options include simulated crowd noise and training instruction in response to the player's measured performance. A camera may be incorporated for recording the player's performance.

International (PCT) Patent Application No. W02004/009188 entitled Apparatus for a Competitive Game involving a Basketball and Basketball Basket discloses apparatus for measuring the performance of a basketball player aiming balls at a basket hoop alternately from different throwing zones. Photoelectric barriers measure the player's running performance and his/her height of jump during the throw. The baskets scored are also measured by sensors positioned on the basket hoop. A computer system evaluates the player's performance, and provides feedback to the player.

The present invention provides sporting or amusement apparatus with interactive features to add to its value as a coaching aid, and to enhance player or spectator interest. In particular, the present invention provides sporting or amusement apparatus which utilises audio and/or visual aids to stimulate and enhance play, instruction or training.

It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect, the present invention provides a goal assembly including:

(a) a frame defining the border or mouth of the goal;

(b) a controller;

(c) at least one scoring sensor for detecting passage of a ball past the frame and into the goal, said sensor then providing a signal to the controller; and

2020201389 26 Feb 2020 (d) a visual display system including one or more light source; the visual display system being activated by the controller so as to provide a visual display, and the visual display incorporating a changing or non-static light pattern on part or all of the frame or a post or surface on which the frame is disposed.

The frame may, for example, be a hoop (such as the ring of a netball goal or the hoop section of the basket of a basketball goal) or the frame forming the mouth of a soccer goal.

In a second aspect, the present invention provides a goal assembly including:

(a) a substantially vertical post;

(b) a hoop disposed on the post;

(c) a controller;

(d) at least one scoring sensor for detecting passage of a ball through the hoop, and then providing a signal to the controller; and (e) a visual display system including one or more light source; the visual display system being activated by the controller so as to provide a visual display, and the visual display incorporating a changing or non-static light pattern on part or all of the post and/or hoop.

In a third aspect, the present invention provides a goal assembly including:

(a) a frame defining the border or mouth of the goal;

(b) a controller;

(c) at least one scoring sensor for detecting passage of a ball past the frame and into the goal, said sensor then providing a signal to the controller;

(d) a visual display system including one or more light source, and being activated by the controller so as to provide a visual display; and (e) an audio transmitter activated by the controller so as to provide an audio transmission.

In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a goal assembly including:

(a) a substantially vertical post;

(b) a hoop disposed on the post;

(c) a controller;

2020201389 26 Feb 2020 (d) at least one scoring sensor for detecting passage of a ball through the hoop, and then providing a signal to the controller;

(e) a visual display system including one or more light source, and being activated by the controller so as to provide a visual display; and (f) an audio transmitter activated by the controller so as to provide an audio transmission.

In a preferred embodiment, the goal assembly incorporates a hoop defining a substantially circular opening through which a ball passes in order to score a goal. The hoop can, for example, be the ring of a netball goal or the hoop section of the basket of a basketball goal.

The hoop is preferably disposed on a substantially vertical goal post or on a generally flat surface such as a wall or board.

Alternatively, in the first and third aspects of the invention, the goal assembly can incorporate a soccer goal.

The scoring sensor(s) are disposed at any convenient location so as to enable the sensor(s) to detect when a goal is scored. In a preferred embodiment, they are located on the frame itself.

Alternatively, where a net is associated with the goal (e.g. in the case of basketball or soccer), the sensor(s) may be attached to the net.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, a preferred embodiment / preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a pictorial diagram illustrating a goal assembly according to the present invention, as used in the game of netball;

Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the interaction of the various components of the goal assembly of Figure 1;

2020201389 26 Feb 2020

Figure 3A is a side view of a pictorial representation of a complete sporting system in use, the sporting system being according to the present invention and incorporating illuminated features; and

Figure 3B is a view from above of a pictorial representation of the complete sporting system of Figure 3A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.

The goal assembly will now be described in terms of preferred embodiments, which are illustrative, but not restrictive, of the present invention.

This goal assembly 10, depicted diagrammatically in Figures 1 and 2, is an entertainment and training tool which uses electronic audio and visual aids to stimulate and enhance both entertainment and training or instruction in the game of netball. Its design is based on a standard netball goal post.

A hoop 11 of standard dimensions is mounted at a regulation height from ground level on a substantially vertical post 12. The terms standard dimensions and regulation height relate to any requirements specified in the rules of the relevant game (in this case, netball).

The goal assembly incorporates a controller, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU) 13, to control its many features. These features may include, for example: .

• An array of light sources 14 on post 12;

• A message/scoring display 15;

• A beacon 16;

• Scoring sensor(s) 17, which are conveniently located on or proximal to hoop 11;

• Audio detector(s) 18 (not shown in Figure 1);

• Image recorder(s) such as a video camera 19; and • Audio transmitter(s) 20.

Preferably, the apparatus will incorporate an automated electronic scoring system, in which the CPU 13 controls the message/scoring display 15, being an electronic scoreboard (e.g. an LED numerical or alpha-numeric display), such that the score changes automatically in response to information/data received from scoring sensor(s) 17.

2020201389 26 Feb 2020

In a version of the apparatus which is adapted for two-team play, two goal post units are linked together. When a team scores, light sources 14 on one or both of the goal posts are activated to turn the goal post(s) the team colour(s) of the scoring team. In particular, when one team scores, the light sources 14 on the other goal post can be activated to turn that goal post the team colour(s) of the scoring team.

The sporting or amusement apparatus of this version may, for example, be a portable netball court, shaped similarly to a traditional netball court.

As shown in Figure 2, the apparatus of the present invention may also include one or more external CPU's 21. These external CPU's allow for additional external scoreboards 15', and for audio transmissions and video displays to be provided and controlled based on the information/data received and processed from one or two goal post units (for example, in the case of a goal assembly to be used for two-team play). These external message/scoring displays 15', external audio transmitters 20' and external video displays 22 can, for example, be provided at any desired remote location (for example, in the vicinity of spectator seating, for the convenience of spectators).

The apparatus of the present invention may further include one or more external hard drive (not shown), which may be used to store images recorded by an image recorder such as video camera 19. In a particularly preferred embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, at least the front surface (i.e. the side facing play) of post 12 is provided with an array of segmented light emitting diodes (LED's) 14 or other light sources. These LED's can, for example, be lit up in the team colour(s) of a team in play. The LED's can be set to flash on and off, and can be activated sequentially, to form a light sequence moving or chasing up and down the post. The rate at which the LED's flash or chase up and down the post can be controlled by the CPU 13, in response to audience or player input (as detected by one or more audio detector 18) or in response to a goal (as detected by one or more scoring sensor 17).

The hoop 11 may also be illuminated, for example by LED lighting 14'. This lighting may be static except for when a player scores a goal, at which time lights can be activated to flash intermittently or in a sequence so as, for example, to chase around the hoop.

The message/scoring displays 15,15' may conveniently be LED panels, which can function as scoreboards providing numerical or alpha-numeric displays on the post 12, and also at any desired remote location (for example, in the vicinity of spectator seating, for the

2020201389 26 Feb 2020 convenience of spectators). Scoring sensor(s) 17, such as a micro-switch inside the hoop 11, will provide a signal to CPU 13 to automatically change the score displayed on the scoreboards 15,15'.

An image recorder, such as a video camera 19, can be placed at any convenient location. For example, video camera 19 can be mounted at or proximal to the top of the post 12. This video camera can be used to take video footage of the players. Footage can be stored on the hard drive of an external CPU 21, and played back as an aid to coaches, or to assist in instructing players/coaches. The footage can also be transmitted directly to external video displays 22, for the convenience of coaches and/or for the convenience and entertainment of spectators. An audio transmitter 20, for example an audio board, can be placed at any convenient location. For example, it can be incorporated in the base of post 12. The audio transmitter can play (and repeatedly replay) pre-recorded music programs or themes, or music programs or themes transmitted from an external source. Vocal messages, for example messages of encouragement such as great shot, try again etc., can be periodically transmitted through the audio transmitter 20, or may be transmitted in response to the scoring of a goal. These vocal messages may be pre-recorded or transmitted directly (e.g. by a coach or commentator) to audio transmitter 20 for re-transmission to players or spectators. For the convenience and entertainment of spectators, external audio transmitter(s) 20' can provide similar audio transmissions at any desired remote location (for example, in the vicinity of spectator seating).

An additional feature which may be incorporated is an audio detector 18, such as a sound sensitive meter, which communicates with the CPU 13 so as to (for example) increase the intensity level of lighting on a post 12, or the rate at which lights flash or chase up and down the post, in response to audio input such as the cheering of spectators.

CPU 13 and external CPU's 21 (if present) allow multiple goal assemblies to be linked to electronic scoreboards 15, 15' and to each other. For example, for two-team play, two goal posts 12 at opposite ends of a playing arena (such as a netball court) may be linked in this way, allowing appropriate visual displays and/or audio transmissions to be provided individually on each post.

Similarly, the lighting levels of two goal posts 12 at either end of the playing arena can be individually controlled, depending upon such factors as sound levels (e.g. spectator cheering), state of play or the score.

2020201389 26 Feb 2020

The following is a description of how a goal assembly according to the present invention may be used as a training aid, and to encourage player participation and enjoyment. It should be noted that this description is merely an example of one of the many possible ways in which the sporting or amusement apparatus of the present invention can be utilised.

At the start of play, light sources 14 (preferably, a segmented array of LED's) illuminate the goal post 12 in a single colour indicative of one of the teams at play. Light sources 14' (preferably LED's) similarly illuminate the hoop 11 in a single colour. Video camera 19 relays images (e.g. images of players) to be shown on video screens 22 and/or stored on an external hard drive. Beacon 16 is switched off, the audio transmitter 20 is silent, and the LED scoreboards 15, 15' indicate a zero score.

During play, and before any goals have been scored, the LED's 14 will illuminate goal post 12 with flashing lights or a changing pattern of colours flashing in sequence or chasing up and down the length of the post. Video camera 19 continues to relay images (e.g. images of players) to be shown on video screens 22 and/or stored on the external hard drive. Beacon 16 is switched off, and the LED scoreboards 15, 15' indicate a zero score. The audio transmitter provides sound effects such as the sound of cheering or words of encouragement (have a shot etc.). Hoop 11 is illuminated in a single colour by LED's 14'.

During play, when a goal is scored, this is detected by scoring sensor(s) 17, such as a micro switch inside the hoop 11. The LED's 14 illuminate goal post 12 with flashing lights in the team colour(s) of the team which scored the goal. These lights flash in sequence or chase up and down the length of the post. Video camera 19 relays images to be shown on video screens 22 and/or stored on the external hard drive, and can be set to provide action replays (i.e. to repeat images of, for example, the 5 seconds prior and after the goal was scored) on screens 22. Beacon 16 is switched on and flashing. The LED scoreboards 15, 15' display the updated score. The audio transmitter 20 provides sound effects such as the sound of cheering or words of encouragement (great shot etc.). Hoop 11 is illuminated in flashing lights by LED's 14'.

The sporting or amusement apparatus of the present invention may form part of a complete concept sporting system. For example, as illustrated in Figures 3A and 3B, the apparatus may be combined with such additional features as the use of a glowing/fluorescent ball 23, illuminated/fluorescent lines 24 on the playing arena, the wearing of illuminated/fluorescent uniforms 25 by the players etc. In a particularly preferred embodiment, these various features of illumination are combined to provide an illuminated court or rink 26 (e.g. an

2020201389 26 Feb 2020 illuminated netball or basketball court or rink) forming part of a complete illuminated sporting system.

In a further preferred embodiment, the playing arena may incorporate video walls on the perimeter.

In order to facilitate better understanding of the invention, the present invention has been described in terms of preferred embodiments, and with regard to the particular elements and/or features described or depicted therein. It should however be appreciated that various modifications can be made without departing from the principles of the invention. Therefore, the invention should be understood to include all such modifications within its scope.

Interpretation

Embodiments:

Reference throughout this specification to one embodiment or an embodiment means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases in one embodiment or in an embodiment in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

Similarly it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features

2020201389 26 Feb 2020 included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

Different Instances of Objects

As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives first, second, third, etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.

Specific Details

In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

Terminology

In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as forward, rearward, radially, peripherally, upwardly, downwardly, and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

Comprising and Including

In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word comprise or variations such as comprises or comprising are used in an inclusive sense,

i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an

2020201389 26 Feb 2020 open term that also means including at least the elements/features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.

Scope of Invention

Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

Industrial Applicability

It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to sporting apparatuses for play of sport such as netball for example in low light conditions.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A goal assembly, for playing or training of a sport such as netball, the goal assembly including:

a frame defining the border or mouth of the goal;

a post, the frame being mountable to one end of the post at a predetermined distance from the ground;

a base member for supporting the post;

a controller and power source for powering the controller;

at least one scoring sensor mounted proximal the frame for detecting passage of a ball past the frame and into the goal, the sensor then providing a signal to the controller;

an electronic scoreboard located on the post, wherein the score shown on the electronic scoreboard changes automatically in response to information or data transmitted from the at least one scoring sensor to the controller and processable by the controller;

a visual display system including one or more light sources, including light emitting diodes (LED's), for providing a changing, flashing or non-static light pattern on part or all of the goal assembly including the frame or the post, wherein the visual display system is activated by the controller; and an image recorder mounted on the frame at or proximal to the top of the post of the goal assembly for taking video footage of the players and providing for playing back as an aid to coaches, or to assist in instructing players or for video display for the coaches and/or entertainment of spectators;

an audio transmitter activated by the controller so as to provide an audio transmission of pre-recorded music programs or themes, or music programs or themes transmitted from an external source to stimulate and enhance entertainment, play, and instruction and training;

wherein the light source(s) of the visual display system are operable to illuminate the goal post(s) and frame and thereby allow playing of netball or the like game, and with the electronic scoreboard is set to zero at the start of play; and wherein when an object such as a netball enters the mouth of the goal a goal is scored, whereby the sensors detect such scoring, and the light source(s) are activated by the controller to flash a predetermined light display, and the electronic scoreboard displays an updated score.

2020201389 26 Feb 2020
2. A goal assembly, for playing or training of a sport such as netball according to claim 1, wherein the light source(s) of the goal assembly include light emitting diodes (LED's) on a play facing side of the post, and whereby the LED's can be illuminated in team colors of a team in play or can be activated sequentially to form a light sequence moving up and down the post and/or across the frame.
3. A goal assembly, for playing or training of a sport such as netball according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the at least one image recorder such as a video camera mounted at or proximal to the top of the post provides for taking of video footage of a player making an attempt of a goal by attempting passage of a ball past the frame and into the goal for use in playback for entertainment, play, and instruction and training.
4. A goal assembly, for playing or training of a sport such as netball according to claim 3, wherein scoring sensors detect scoring of a goal and initiates the video camera to relay images to be shown on video screens and/or stored on external hard drive to provide action replays of, for example, the 5 seconds prior and after the goal was scored.
5. A goal assembly, for playing or training of a sport such as netball according to claim 3, wherein the goal assembly further includes video display screens for displaying material recorded by the image recorder(s).
6. A goal assembly, for playing or training of a sport such as netball according to claim 1, wherein the visual display system of the goal assembly includes an array of light sources which is activated by the controller to provide a light sequence moving along part or all of the frame, hoop or post of the goal assembly.
7. A system for playing a sport such as netball, providing:

a first and second goal assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6-forming a combination of two goal assemblies adapted for two-team play, wherein each goal assembly is illuminated with a changing, flashing or non-static light pattern on part or all of each goal assembly by the one or more light sources, including light emitting diodes (LED's), illuminated or fluorescent lines or circumferentially locatable walls defining a playing arena or court or rink, a glowing/fluorescent ball, and illuminated/fluorescent uniforms for the players,

2020201389 26 Feb 2020 wherein the system with the features of illumination are combined to provide an illuminated court or rink forming a complete illuminated sporting system which aids play, entertainment and training.
8. A system for playing a sport such as netball according claim 7, wherein the two goal assemblies are electronically or wirelessly linked together to allow interactive operation.
9. system for playing a sport such as netball according claim 8, wherein the interactive operation includes when one team scores a goal the light sources on one or both of the goal assemblies are activated to turn the goal assembly/assemblies into team color(s) of the scoring team.
10. A game apparatus for substantially following the rules of netball, including

a. a court having illuminated/fluorescent lines;

b. a goal assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9;

c. a ball for playing being illuminated or fluorescent;

whereby the game apparatus and players are illuminated or fluoresce by light source to provide a focused illuminated/fluorescent effect.
11. The game apparatus according to claim 10 including circumferentially locatable video walls.
12. A training system using a goal assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein the scoring sensors and a video camera are mounted at or proximal to the top of post of the goal assembly; and wherein the audio transmitter is located at, on, or near the base of the goal assembly and including pre-recorded material from a coach or the like whereby the training system can provide a training method or routine to a player.