EP1635917B1 - Shuttlecock - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a shuttlecock comprising a conical crown ( 2 ) and a base ( 3 ) for hitting. In order to modify the flying characteristics, a preferably toroidal ring ( 4 ) which is made of an elastic material is mounted on the shuttlecock ( 1 ) in a biased state so as to surround the crown ( 2 ). Said ring is preferably retained in a fixed position by means of the rear limit of the base ( 3 ) and the forward zone ( 21 ) of the crown ( 2 ), rear and forward being in relation to the flying direction. The forward zone ( 21 ) of the crown ( 2 ) can be formed by stems ( 21 ), for example. Alternatively, several rings can be provided. The invention allows the flying characteristics of the birdie to be modified in a particularly simple and fast manner. The birdie can be made to fly in a more stable fashion by means of the weight of the ring, for example, resulting in greater speeds and ranges.

Description

The invention relates to a shuttlecock ball with a substantially conically shaped basket, wherein the basket has a molded fixing element in a region of the narrow basket end and with a striking cap which is substantially dome-shaped in at least one - viewed in the direction of flight - front portion and in the Fixing element is anchored.

In the context of the present specification, "missile ball" refers to a missile that can be used as a game or game device or as part of a game. The shuttlecock can be designed in particular in the manner of a shuttlecock, wherein the basket of the shuttlecock ball corresponds to the apron of a shuttlecock.

The terminology regarding the various components of the missiles of interest here is not uniform in the literature, so that a corresponding clarification appears necessary in the context of the present document. In this case, because of the close relationship of the competitive badminton, badminton, to the English language also in places for further clarification referred to the corresponding English expressions. It is finally pointed out in this context that sometimes several different types of names for one and the same part or component are in use and that in this document no claim is made to an exhaustive description of all common names in this regard.

In the context of the present document, the usual direction of flight is referred to as "forward", so that in the shuttlecock ball the striking cap "front" and the basket "rear" are arranged. The conically shaped basket thus has its "front" narrow and "backward" its wide range.

In the following, comparable elements between "shuttlecock" on the one hand and "shuttlecock" on the other hand will be discussed first, followed by a reference to differences or possible differences between the two. The presentation of these differences should also make it clear why in the present case instead of the term "badminton" the term "shuttlecock" has been selected.

With regard to common notations for badminton, first of all the following English terms should be noted: The apron of a badminton is usually called "skirt". The corresponding impact cap of a shuttlecock is commonly referred to in English as "striking cap". For the competitive badminton game, badminton, rules have been established in which the corresponding shuttlecock as a whole is referred to as a "shuttle" having a "skirt" and a "base", the latter in this context designating a corresponding striking cap ,

The basket of the shuttlecock ball and the apron of the shuttlecock can be made of feathers or of an artificial material. When using natural material, especially feathers, such as goose feathers, they can be stuck with their (free shaved) quills in the percussion cap. The striking cap can be made of cork, for example. For the basket or apron results in this way a subdivision into a front portion which is formed by the front portions of the quills and a back to this subsequent further portion which is formed by the spring vanes. This feather flag area is commonly referred to in English as "vane area".

When using artificial material, such as plastic, the basket or apron is often designed so that it or her in a manner analogous to a basket / apron of springs can be divided into sections, the front part of stems (English: " Stems ") may be formed, which correspond as it were the front portion of the quills and which are - viewed in accordance with the conical shape of the basket or the skirt - seen from the striking cap obliquely rearwardly diverging. The basket or apron section formed by the stems is referred to in English as "upper skirt". To the front basket or Apron section may be followed by another section that corresponds to the flag area in a basket or apron made of feathers. The flag area, for example, in addition to the rear portions of the stems, for example, have ribs that connect the individual stems transversely and intermediate webs that are substantially parallel to the stems, so that in this way an approximately reticulated structure is formed by the approximately conical Basic shape is formed in this section.

In the front region of the basket or apron, ie in the front end region of the stems, an end ring (English: "end ring") may be provided, which may be designed, for example disc-shaped or annular disk-shaped and connects the stem ends together. Such an end ring generally has a diameter which is slightly smaller than that of the striking cap. The or a fixing element, which serves for the connection or anchoring with the striking cap, may be formed as a forward shaping on the end ring. For example, for this purpose, an approximately cylindrically shaped fixing pin (English: "stem extension collar") may be provided, the diameter of which may be, for example, about half as large as the diameter of the impact cap.

The striking cap may have a forward portion in the form of a forwardly facing dome, and a rearward portion approximately cylindrically shaped, wherein the diameter of the cross-sectional area of the cylindrical portion may substantially correspond to the base diameter of the dome.

The impact cap may further comprise a rear recess, which is for example formed approximately hollow cylindrical and which is provided for receiving a correspondingly shaped fixing element. In this way, in particular an approximately annular rear boundary wall of the impact cap can be formed, which - in the assembled state - connects to the region of the front stem ends or to the end ring.

With regard to the features outlined above, reference is made by way of example to the following documents as state of the art: GB 887,172 . GB 908,684 . GB 1,046,708 . DE 2 321 861 ,

In the following, attention is now drawn to differences or possible differences between a shuttlecock and a shuttlecock.

According to the badminton rules, a shuttlecock can either have springs or a corresponding replica of feathers made of synthetic material. When using springs, there must be 16 springs having a uniform length in the range of 62 to 70 mm, and further, the spring tips must lie on a circle with a diameter between 58 and 68 mm. The diameter of the base must be between 25 and 28 mm and the shuttlecock must weigh between 4.74 and 5.50 grams.

In the case of a shuttlecock made of appropriately synthetic material, the information given in the badminton rules applies analogously, but with the restriction that deviations of up to ten percent are accepted.

In particular, this information from the badminton rules in the context of the present document does not apply to a shuttlecock according to the invention.

For example, a shuttlecock according to the invention may have a higher weight than the above, for example it may have a weight of between 6 and 50 grams, for example about 9 grams. Furthermore, a shuttlecock can differ in its dimensions from a badminton ball according to the rules. For example, the shell length of the basket in the shuttlecock between 30 and 50 mm, for example, be about 38 mm. Furthermore, for example, a circle formed by the rearward boundary of the basket may have a diameter which is approximately between 40 and 60 mm, for example about 50 mm. Furthermore, the diameter of the impact cap, for example, less than 25 mm, for example, between about 20 and 25 mm.

Due to the aforementioned deviations can be achieved that the shuttlecock has flight characteristics that differ from those of a shuttlecock. In particular, can be achieved by a correspondingly higher weight and a "shortened" basket, that the trajectory receives greater overall stability and that a higher airspeed and a greater flight range can be achieved. For example, greater stability can be considered advantageous because it reduces lateral drift drift. The mentioned qualitative changes in flight characteristics can be regarded as advantageous in particular with regard to the use of the shuttlecock ball under atmospheric conditions, ie under "outdoor conditions" - in contrast to the "indoor conditions" in badminton.

In the FIGS. 2a, 2b and 3a is schematically illustrated a generic shuttlecock, as it is known from the prior art. In Fig. 2a a striking cap 3 can be seen, to which a basket 2 connects behind, which adjoins the striking cap 3 with a front basket portion 20. The front basket portion 20 is formed by front portions of stems 21. Reverse to the front basket portion 20 is followed by a rear basket portion 22, which is formed from the rear portions of the stems 21, of transverse ribs 25 and of intermediate webs 24. (For reasons of clarity, not all of the illustrated stems 21, ribs 25 and intermediate webs 24 are provided with reference numerals in the figures, and the illustrated numbers of stems 21, ribs 25 and intermediate webs 24 in the figures are purely schematic.)

It can be provided a different number of stems 21, for example, 16 stems. Furthermore, for example, five ribs and in the area between each two stems 21 each six intermediate webs 24 may be provided.

Fig. 2b shows in the manner of an exploded view the shuttlecock with removed striker cap 3. At an end ring 27, the front stem ends are held together. At its front region, the end ring 27 has an integrally formed, substantially cylindrically shaped fixing pin 26.

The striking cap 3 can be divided into a front dome-shaped portion 31 and an adjoining rear portion 32 which is substantially cylindrically shaped. The striking cap 3 has a rear recess 33, which is provided for receiving the fixing pin 26. The recess 33 has a circular edge, so that from the striking cap 3, a rear, annular wall 34 is formed.

To improve the connection between the basket 2 and the striking cap 3, for example, two pressing rings, a front 35 and a rear 36, may be provided. It can also be provided only a press ring.

Fig. 3a shows a schematic perspective view of the shuttlecock ball of FIGS. 2a and 2b under uniform use of the reference numerals. In particular, while the annular rear wall 34 of the striking cap 3 can be seen, at the inner boundary or edge - in the assembled state - the end ring 27 connects, to which in turn the front ends of the stems 21 are attached.

The striking cap can be made for example of thermoplastic polyolefins, polyethylene or polypropylene, in particular of TBE-EPDM. Also, the basket can be made of plastic material.

With regard to the state of the art presented above, international standards will continue to apply PCT applications WO 92/05843 A1 and WO 01/17620 A1 directed.

In the WO 92/05843 A1 is described a shuttlecock having a light source. The light source emits light in the direction of flight in a particularly effective manner.

The one from the international PCT application WO 01/17620 A1 known shuttlecock has the particularly strong connection between the impact cap and basket at the front end of a cylindrical fixing pin a radially projecting flange edge on. Furthermore, from this document pressing rings are known, which are made of rigid plastic material and which are mounted in a rearward cylindrical portion of the striking cap under elastic compression deformation of the Kappmaterials.

From German Utility Model G 93 09 431 Ul an aerodynamic impact cap is known, which has trough-like depressions on its pointing in the direction of flight surface for improving the aerodynamics. In this case, instead of a central trough a hole may be provided. Furthermore, it is known from this document that a rearward to the striking cap adjacent Schlagkappenhals may have a superficial, annular trough in a signal color.

From the German utility model DE 91 10 804 U1 is a shuttlecock with replaceable, cylindrically shaped core known. The core piece serves as a flight stabilizer.

From the German patent application DE 33 29 205 A1 is a shuttlecock known which has a ballast made of plastic. The weighting element can be mounted inside the basket on a dish-shaped anchor plate. With this weighting element, it is possible to change the playing characteristics of the shuttlecock.

From the German patent application DE 196 46 508 A1 a ball game is known in which the ball is designed in the manner of a spring or badminton ball and having a head piece with a spherical surface. The head piece forms a contact surface for acting through a striking surface of a racket. Furthermore, the ball has a spring part with a plurality of flight-stabilizing surface elements. The flight characteristics such as flight distance, flight curve, speed and / or flight stability of the ball can be changed by different interchangeable head pieces and / or intermediate pieces mountable between the head piece and the spring piece.

The CH 672 430 A5 describes a shuttlecock to which a ring is attached. The ring consists of an envelope made of elastic, unbreakable plastic, which is filled with two liquid components of a two-phase phosphor.

The wrapper may be glued to the shuttlecock or attached thereto by a rubber ring or band. Thanks to the described phosphor, the shuttlecock is still clearly visible even when the badminton game is continued in the dark.

The US 2,116,304 describes a shuttlecock which has a ring in different positions on the striking cap to change the flight characteristics.

The invention has for its object to improve a shuttlecock ball of the type shown above. In particular, the possibilities for

Influence on the flight characteristics of the Flugkorbballs be improved. It is a solution to be specified, which is overall economical and with the influence on the flight characteristics is possible in a simple manner.

This object is achieved by the features of the independent claim. The dependent claims further form the central idea of the invention in a particularly advantageous manner.

According to the invention, a shuttlecock ball is provided, which has an approximately conically shaped basket, wherein the basket has an integrally formed in a region of the narrow basket end fixing. Furthermore, the shuttlecock has a striking cap, which is essentially dome-shaped at least in a front region seen in the direction of flight and which is anchored in the fixing element. The shuttlecock further includes at least one ring releasably attached to the basket.

• einen konisch geformten Korb,
• eine Schlagkappe, die wenigstens in einem in Flugrichtung gesehen vorderen Bereich kalottenförmig ausgebildet ist,
• wenigstens einen den Flugkorbball umgebend in einer ringnutartig geformten Mulde anordenbaren Ring
  aufweist, wobei

die ringnutartig geformte Mulde durch eine rückwärtige Begrenzungswand der Schlagkappe und eine konische Mantelfläche des Korbes gebildet wird.The shuttlecock, is designed to be

• a conically shaped basket,
• a striking cap which is dome-shaped at least in a front region seen in the direction of flight,
• at least one surrounding the shuttlecock in a ringnutartig shaped trough ring can be arranged
  having,

the annular groove-shaped recess is formed by a rear boundary wall of the striking cap and a conical lateral surface of the basket.

The conically shaped basket may, for example, have substantially the shape of a straight truncated cone, in which case the fixing element may be formed in the region of the smallest lateral cross-sectional area. Furthermore, the basket may have a structural subdivision, wherein in a front region, the lateral surface may be formed by a plurality of stems, for example 16 stems. In a rear portion, the lateral surface may have a materially dense structure, which may represent, for example, a network structure formed by ribs and intermediate webs.

The fixing element may be, for example, an approximately cylindrically shaped fixing pin, which is connected, for example, by an end ring to the front end of the handle. The cylindrical fixing pin may be arranged symmetrically to a main axis of symmetry of the basket.

The striking cap may have a split structure, wherein a front part may be configured substantially in the shape of a forwardly facing dome and a rearward part may be substantially cylindrical. The back part can have a cylinder diameter corresponding to the diameter of the dome base. The cylindrical part may have in the region of its rear boundary a recess or opening which may be provided for connection to the fixing element. The recess may have a substantially hollow cylindrical shape. In this way, the striking cap may have a rear boundary wall which is substantially annular and which extends between the rearward outer edge of the cylindrical cap portion and the edge of the recess.

By attaching the (at least one) ring can be easily achieved a change in the flight characteristics of the Flugkorbballs. In particular, by attaching the ring, an increase in weight of the missile is effected, which affects a total of flight stabilizing. Furthermore, the weight increase causes the shuttlecock to achieve a higher airspeed and a longer flight range. The symmetrical shape of the ring also makes it possible for the additional weight to be arranged symmetrically with respect to a main axis of the shuttlecock ball, that is to say axially symmetrical. This may be considered advantageous in terms of the variations in flight characteristics caused, otherwise a corresponding asymmetry would make it more difficult for a player to assess flight behavior.

By appropriate choice of the weight of the ring can be taken in an individual way influence on the flight characteristics of the Flugkorbballs, because the flight behavior can be customized in this way a player's ability. For example, can be mounted by particularly experienced or good players a comparatively heavy ring, for example, with a weight of about 1 to 20 g, to allow in this way, particularly high airspeeds. Higher flight speeds generally result in more effective training of reaction speed and physical speed. Accordingly, less experienced players can use a lighter weight ring.

Preferably, the at least one ring is held fixed in position in the attached state on the one hand by the conical lateral surface of the basket and on the other hand by a rear boundary wall of the impact cap and is thereby in the prestressed state.

As a result, a stable attachment of the ring on the shuttlecock is made possible in an advantageous manner. In particular, a stability on the one hand in the direction of flight and on the other hand contrary to the direction of flight can be effected. In this way, it can further be ensured that the ring is held in its position relative to the rest of the shuttlecock, in particular even when the shuttlecock ball is hit, for example, with a racket or the like, and thereby deflected in its trajectory. The ring may be referred to as an "intermediate ring" in view of this attachment. The so "charged" mass is advantageously embedded symmetrically behind the approximately hemispherical impact cap.

The shape of the shuttlecock in the region of the transition from the striking cap to the basket can be such that, in flight, vortices form which, for example, have a braking effect on the flight behavior. This may for example be the case when the striking cap has a rearward outer edge with a diameter greater than the diameter of the portion of the basket adjacent the impact cap. By attaching the ring in this transition region of said vortex formation can be advantageously counteracted. As a result, in particular, a braking effect caused by the vortex formation can be reduced.

The rearward outer edge of the striking cap described may also be detrimental when it is hit with a racket, in particular with a frame of a racket or the like, because thereby the Flugkorbballs is directed in a virtually unforeseeable direction of flight. Such a disadvantageous property can be at least partially remedied by an attached ring or at least mitigated in its effect.

For example, the part of the basket, of which the ring is held on the one hand, by a front portion of the stems, so be formed by the front stem ends. The rear boundary wall of the striking cap can be formed, for example, by a substantially annular wall which extends between a rearward outer edge of the striking cap and the edge of a recess in the striking cap, which serves to receive the fixing element.

Preferably, the at least one ring is made of elastic material.

By using an elastic material advantageously a particularly simple production of the connection between the ring and the remaining shuttlecock is possible. For example, the material can be chosen so that an attachment of the ring by hand, ie in particular without tools or the like is possible. For a decrease or release of the ring from the rest of the shuttlecock, the same applies analogously.

Preferably, the inner diameter of the at least one ring is smaller than the outer diameter of the striking cap or optionally the cylindrically shaped rear part of the striking cap. With suitable dimensioning can be achieved in this way that the at least one ring particularly easy to move manually from the front over the striking cap and can be brought into its intended position.

Preferably, the outer diameter of the at least one ring is greater than the outer diameter of the striking cap. As a result, the visual appearance of the Flugkorbballs be made clearer. For example, it can be achieved that under otherwise identical conditions an approaching shuttlecock can be detected earlier.

Preferably, the at least one ring is made of thermoplastic polyolefins, polyethylene, polypropylene, EPDM, TBE-EPDM or rubber. These materials have proven themselves in practice.

Preferably, the at least one ring has a substantially toroidal surface. In this way it can be achieved that attachment and removal of the ring can be accomplished particularly easily, because the torus shape of the ring can be particularly easily moved by a rolling motion over the striking cap and mounted and removed in this way.

Preferably, the at least one ring has a weight that is approximately between 10 and 30 percent of the weight of the shuttlecock ball without a ring attached. This range of values has proven itself in practice.

Preferably, the at least one ring has a weight of between about 1 and 3 grams. The shuttlecock without attached ring in this case may have a weight of, for example, 5 to 15 grams, especially about 9 grams.

Preferably, the material of the at least one ring has a Shore (Shore) hardness in the range of about 40 to 90, preferably of about 70.

Preferably, the at least one ring has an outer diameter of about 25 to 65 mm and an inner diameter of about 15 to 25 mm.

Preferably, the length of the lateral surface of the basket is approximately between 33 and 43 millimeters and the diameter of the impact cap is approximately between 20 and 30 millimeters. Furthermore, the basket has approximately the shape of a straight truncated cone, wherein the base surface spanned by the truncated cone has a diameter of about 45 to 55 millimeters. The spanned base area corresponds in this case so the spanned by the rear edge of the basket circular area.

Preferably, a plurality of rings, for example about two or three or four rings can be attached, which are made of the same material and each having the same dimensions. As a result, a particularly large variety of influencing possibilities of the flight characteristics of the shuttlecock can be achieved with particularly simple handling.

Preferably, a plurality of rings can be attached, which have different dimensions and / or their materials have different densities.

When using multiple rings, the flight characteristics can be changed in a particularly diverse manner. For example, the flight characteristics can be set particularly finely on the gaming experience of a player.

Preferably, the at least one ring is luminous; For example, its surface may have a luminous color. As a result, the visibility of the shuttlecock ball, for example, when viewing an approaching shuttlecock ball in the air, increased. An early ball detection is thus improved. This is particularly important in connection with relatively high airspeeds of importance.

Furthermore, preferably, the impact cap on a hole, which is provided such that can form acoustic resonances when it flows with air. For example, the impact cap may be formed substantially rotationally symmetrical and the hole may be provided along the axis of rotation or symmetry. For example, with a cap diameter of about between 20 and 50 millimeters, the diameter of the hole may be between about 3 and 10 millimeters.

• Fig. 1 einen erfindungsgemäßen Flugkorbball in schematischer Seitenansicht,
• Figuren 2a und 2b einen Flugkorbball nach dem Stand der Technik,
• Fig. 2c einen Querschnitt durch eine Schlagkappe,
• Fig. 3a eine schematische perspektivische Darstellung eines Flugkorbballs nach dem Stand der Technik,
• Fig. 3b eine Frontalansicht eines Flugkorbballs,
• Fig. 4a einen erfindungsgemäßen Flugkorbball mit zwei gleichförmigen angebrachten Ringen,
• Fig. 4b einen erfindungsgemäßen Flugkorbball mit zwei unterschiedlichen Ringen,
• Fig. 5a eine schematische, perspektivische, teilweise transparente Darstellung einer Schlagkappe mit Loch und Mulden,
• Fig. 5b eine Frontalansicht einer Schlagkappe mit Loch und Mulden,
• Fig. 6 einen Ring mit Löchern,
• Fig. 7a eine Schlagkappe mit Ring, und
• Fig. 7b eine Schlagkappe mit mehreren Ringen.

Further features, advantages and features will now be explained with reference to a detailed description of an embodiment and with reference to the figures of the accompanying drawings. Show it:

• Fig. 1 a shuttlecock ball according to the invention in a schematic side view,
• FIGS. 2a and 2b a shuttlecock according to the prior art,
• Fig. 2c a cross section through a striking cap,
• Fig. 3a a schematic perspective view of a shuttlecock ball according to the prior art,
• Fig. 3b a frontal view of a shuttlecock ball,
• Fig. 4a a shuttlecock ball according to the invention with two uniform rings attached,
• Fig. 4b a shuttlecock ball according to the invention with two different rings,
• Fig. 5a a schematic, perspective, partially transparent representation of a striking cap with hole and hollows,
• Fig. 5b a frontal view of a striking cap with hole and hollows,
• Fig. 6 a ring with holes,
• Fig. 7a a striking cap with ring, and
• Fig. 7b a striking cap with several rings.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of a shuttlecock ball according to the invention 1. The shuttlecock 1 is suitable for use as a game ball, which can be played for example with rackets. The shuttlecock can be used for example as an outdoor game device.

The shuttlecock 1 according to this embodiment consists of a basket 2, which is shaped substantially like a straight truncated cone, a striking cap 3 and a ring 4th

The shuttlecock ball 1 according to the invention has - unless otherwise stated below - according to this embodiment with respect to the basket 2 and impact cap 3, the features described in the above description of the prior art with reference to FIG FIGS. 2a, 2b and 3 are indicated. In that regard, therefore, reference is expressly made to the corresponding parts of the description above.

The basket 2 is divided into a front portion 20 and a rear portion 22, wherein the front portion 20 is formed by front portions of a plurality, for example, sixteen stems 21 and the rear portion 22 has a net-like structure of rear portions of the stems 21st , Intermediate webs 24 and ribs 25 is formed. The number of stems 21, intermediate webs 24 and ribs 25 is indicated only schematically in the figure. For example, six intermediate webs 24 may be formed between two stems 21 in the rear basket section 22 and a total of five respective annular ribs 25 may be provided. In its foremost section, the basket 2 has a fixing pin 26, which is connected via an end ring 27 with the front end of the handle.

The striking cap 3 has a substantially hollow cylindrical recess 33. Furthermore, the impact cap 3 pressing rings 35 and 36, which serve to reinforce or secure the connection of striking cap 3 and 2 basket. Such press rings 35, 36 are known per se from the prior art.

The shuttlecock ball 1 according to the invention has, in particular, a toroidal ring 4, which is mounted surrounding the basket 2. In Fig.1 the ring 4 is indicated only by a schematic representation of its cross section to better recognize the entire structure. The ring 4 is thus mounted according to this embodiment in the region of the impact cap recess 33.

According to the present Ansführungsbeispiel is formed by the rear wall 34 of the striking cap on the one hand and the stems 21 on the other hand, a substantially annular groove-like shaped trough, in which the ring 4 mounted under bias is. In this case, the ring 4 is made of an elastic and relatively soft material, such as thermoplastic polyolefins, polyethylene, polypropylene, TBE-EPDM, rubber or a similar material, and has a Shore value of about 70 or even more than 70. Furthermore, the ring 4 can be made of a transparent or foamed material as needed.

The inner diameter of the ring 4 is as out Fig. 1 seen, slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the striking cap 3 or optionally a pressing ring 35 or 36. In this way it is possible to move the ring 4 manually and in particular without the use of tools coming from the front by means of a rolling motion over the striking cap 3 until he is fixed in position in its intended position, and is snapped in this position, so to speak. Due to its bias, the ring 4 is held securely in position on the shuttlecock ball 1, and this also applies to heavy punches, for example with a squash racket-type racket or the like (squash class (140 to 220 g); heavier balls also with racquets of the tennis class, 250 up to 350 g).

Furthermore, the outer diameter of the ring 4 according to this embodiment is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the striking cap 3. In this way, the shuttlecock ball is more visible and early in particular recognizable in the approach.

For example, the inner diameter of the ring 4 may be about 21 mm, the outer diameter about 30 mm or even up to 70 mm, and the circle describing the torus shape have a diameter between about 1 and 15 mm, for example about 5 mm. These dimensions are suitable for a striking cap 3 or optionally for a pressing ring 35, 36 with a diameter of about 26 mm. The end ring 27 may in this case, for example, have a diameter of about 19 mm. The diameter of the rear opening of the basket 2, that is, the diameter of the base of the right circular cylinder, which describes the coarse shape of the basket, in this case may be about 50 mm, the basket length, measured along the major axis of the rear boundary of the end plate 27th to the rear circular opening of the basket 2, for example about 35 mm.

According to the embodiment, it is also possible, in particular two or three similar rings 4a, 4b to be mounted on the shuttlecock 1, as shown in Fig. 4a in one too Fig. 1 analog representation is indicated schematically. In this way, it is particularly easy and advantageous possible to influence the flight behavior of the shuttlecock ball 1 in a particularly varied manner and yet particularly easy to use by using different weights.

Alternatively, it is possible to provide two or more rings 4c, 4d that differ, for example, in their diameters and torus thicknesses, but not in the material, as exemplified in FIG Fig. 4b for two rings 4c, 4d is indicated schematically. Thus, for example, a front ring 4c may have a greater torus thickness than a rear ring 4d adjacent thereto; This is aerodynamically advantageous. Furthermore, while the diameter of the front ring 4c may be about smaller than that of the rear ring 4d; In this way, the cone shape of the basket can be taken into account and, in particular, an excessive pressure of the rear ring 4d on the basket 2 can be avoided. Of course, for the expert in this regard countless other variations. For example, it can be provided that the rings differ in their material properties, for example in their elasticity properties, so that a ring with greater elasticity can be used in the rear connection to a ring with less elasticity and in this way the cone shape of the basket Account is taken.

By gaining weight, in particular, a higher inertia of the shuttlecock ball 1 and, associated therewith, greater stability, ie in particular a smaller drift from the trajectory in the case of side winds, can be obtained. Furthermore, a higher maximum speed of the shuttlecock ball 1 can be achieved by the increase in weight or increase in the inertial mass of the shuttlecock ball. This is associated with a higher flight range.

For example, the ring 4 can weigh about 2 grams or more, and the shuttlecock 1 without the attached ring weighs about 9 grams.

According to the Ausßführungsbeispiel described here is achieved by the inventive positioning of the ring 4 with respect to the main axis of symmetry of the shuttlecock 1 symmetrical distribution of the ring weight, which is particularly advantageous in terms of a uniform influence on the flight characteristics. The "mass charge" in this case is therefore symmetrical and balanced.

According to the above-mentioned dimensions, it can be provided that the (outer) diameter of the ring 4 (30 mm) is larger than that of the striking cap 3 (26 mm). This can serve, in particular in the case of a colored or luminous-colored ring 4, to improve the visibility of the shuttlecock ball 1. For example, it can be achieved that a shuttlecock can be detected earlier and / or better in the approach than a comparable shuttlecock ball without a ring.

With regard to the features of the ring or of the rings can - as partially already shown above - also be provided to provide rings of different densities and with different diameters, for example, such that a ring with a slightly larger diameter in the rear connection to a ring with something smaller diameter, so that in this way the conical basket shape is taken into account and excessive deformation or compression of the stems 21 in this area, caused by the tension of a ring, is avoided.

When using a shuttlecock according to the prior art, it comes in flight in the region of the rear outer edge 37 (see. Fig. 2a ) to turbulence that can interfere with disturbing, especially braking effect on the flight behavior. When using the ring 4, this turbulence can be counteracted, in the sense that the disturbing vortex force is at least partially turned off.

As FIGS. 5a, b show in a schematic, partially transparent representation can also be provided to provide a central hole 40 in the striking cap 3, for example symmetrically to the axis of symmetry of the shuttlecock ball 1, for example, with a diameter of about 4 mm. (In Fig. 5a is the sake of clarity, a recess 33 not shown.) This is also in the Figures 2c and 3b to recognize. A corresponding rearward continuation of the hole 40 may in this case be provided in the end plate 27 (not shown). By forming such a hole 40 acoustic resonances can be generated in flight by the air flow, for example in the form of a whistle noise. Such acoustic stimuli can continue to increase the use possibilities of the shuttlecock ball as a game device.
Furthermore, trough-like recesses 41 can be provided on the upper side of the dome-shaped front side 31 of the striking cap 3, by means of which the aerodynamics can be further improved, as is known per se from the prior art. In Fig. 5a are purely exemplified six such wells sketched. For example, a total of about 16 wells or even more can be provided.

Alternatively or in addition to the central hole 40 in the striking cap 3 can be provided that the ring 4 has a plurality of corresponding holes 42, as in Fig. 6 the example of eight holes 42 is shown. In this way, corresponding acoustic resonances can be generated, so that it is possible to speak of a "sonar ring". The holes 42 in the ring 4 may be formed, for example, with longitudinal axes, which are aligned - at least substantially - parallel to the direction of flight. Further, such holes 42 may serve to apply small additional weights, "weight sticks", which further enhances the ability to influence the weighting of the shuttlecock ball. It is also possible, for further improvement of the visibility of the shuttlecock ball self-luminous plug-in elements to attach "glow sticks" by plugging into the holes 42 on the shuttlecock.

Finally, in Fig. 7a sketched the possibility of providing an annular groove-like depression on the striking cap 3 for receiving and positioning the ring 4. This is analogous also possible for several rings, as in Fig. 7b shown by the example of three rings 4.

• ● Die Flugeigenschaften des Flugkorbballs lassen sich einfach, schnell und dennoch auf mannigfaltige Weise verändern.
• ● Zur Veränderung der Flugeigenschaften ist kein Werkzeug erforderlich.
• ● Insgesamt wird die Aerodynamik des Flugkorbballes, insbesondere hinsichtlich eines Einsatzes unter "Outdoor-Bedingungen" wesentlich verbessert. Ein Spiel wird dadurch bis etwa Windstärke 5 möglich.
• ● Die Flugeigenschaften lassen sich individuell an den Trainingsgrad der Spieler anpassen ("Anfänger" bis "Profi").
• ● Die optische Früh-Erkennbarkeit des Flugkorbballes wird enorm vergrößert.
• ● Es lassen sich akustische Reize erzeugen, die die Möglichkeiten des Einsatzes des Flugkorbballs beim Spiel weiterhin vergrößern.

The advantages of the invention can be summarized as follows.

• ● The flight characteristics of the shuttlecock ball can be changed easily, quickly and in a variety of ways.
• ● No tools are needed to change flight characteristics.
• ● Overall, the aerodynamics of the shuttlecock ball, in particular with regard to use under "outdoor conditions" significantly improved. A game is possible up to about 5 wind speed.
• ● The flight characteristics can be individually adapted to the training level of the players ("beginner" to "professional").
• ● The optical early recognition of the shuttlecock ball is enormously increased.
• ● Acoustic stimuli can be generated that further increase the possibilities of using the shuttlecock ball while playing.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Shuttlecock

2

basket

3

striking cap

4

toroidal ring

4a, b, c, d

several rings, partly different dimensions / materials

20

front basket section

21

stalks

22

rearward basket section

24

interbars

25

ribs

26

cylindrical fixing pin

27

end ring

31

dome-shaped front beater section

32

cylindrical rear bumper section

33

Striking cap recess

34

Rear wall of the striking cap

35

front press ring

36

rearward pressing ring

37

rearward outer edge of the striking cap

40

Dolly-hole

41

Hopper

42

Holes in the ring, "sonar ring"

Claims (16)

1. Shuttlecock, comprising
   a conical shaped crown (2),
   a striking cap (3), which is dome-shaped at least in a front section, when viewed in the flight direction, and
   at least one ring which surrounds the shuttlecock and can be arranged in an annular groove shaped hollow
   characterized in that
   the annular groove shaped hollow is formed by a rear boundary wall (34) of the striking cap (3) and a conical exterior surface (21) of the crown (2).
2. Shuttlecock according to claim 1,
   characterized in that
   when the at least one ring (4) is installed, its position is fixed by an applied pretension produced, on one hand, by the conical exterior surface (21) of the crown (2) and, on the other hand, by a rear boundary wall (34) of the striking cap (3).
3. Shuttlecock according to one of the preceding claims,
   characterized in that
   the at least one ring (4) is made of an elastic material and/ or transparently formed.
4. Shuttlecock according to one of the preceding claims,
   characterized in that
   the inside diameter of the at least one ring (4) is smaller than the outside diameter of the striking cap (3).
5. Shuttlecock according to one of the preceding claims,
   characterized in that
   the outside diameter of the at least one ring (4) is greater than the outside diameter of the striking cap (3).
6. Shuttlecock according to one of the preceding claims,
   characterized in that
   the at least one ring (4) is made of thermoplastic polyolefins, polyethylene, polypropylene, EPDM, TBE-EPDM, or rubber.
7. Shuttlecock according to one of the preceding claims,
   characterized in that
   the at least one ring (4) has a substantially toroidal surface.
8. Shuttlecock according to one of the preceding claims,
   characterized in that
   the at least one ring (4) has a weight of approximately between 10 and 70 percent of the weight of the shuttlecock without the at least one ring being installed.
9. Shuttlecock according to one of the preceding claims,
   characterized in that
   the at least one ring (4) has a weight of approximately between 1 and 25 grams.
10. Shuttlecock according to one of the preceding claims,
    characterized in that
    the material of the at least one ring (4) has a Shore value in the range of approximately 40 to 90, preferably approximately 70.
11. Shuttlecock according to one of the preceding claims,
    characterized in that
    the at least one ring (4) has an outside diameter of approximately 25 to 70 mm and an inside diameter of approximately 15 to 40 mm.
12. Shuttlecock according to one of the preceding claims,
    characterized in that
    the exterior surface of the crown (2) has a length of approximately between 33 and 43 mm and the striking cap (3) has a diameter of approximately between 20 and 30 mm, and that in addition the crown (2) has approximately the shape of a straight truncated cone and the surface of the base covered by the cone has a diameter of approximately 45 to 55 mm.
13. Shuttlecock according to one of the preceding claims,
    characterized in that
    several rings (4a, 4b), preferably approximately two to four rings are applied, which are made of the same material and have the same dimensions.
14. Shuttlecock according to one of claims 1 to 13,
    characterized in that
    several rings are applied, which have different dimensions and/or are made of materials having different densities.
15. Shuttlecock according to one of the preceding claims,
    characterized in that
    the at least one ring (4) emits light and/or is equipped with ornamental light sticks.
16. Shuttlecock according to one of the preceding claims,
    characterized in that
    a hole (40) is arranged in the striking cap (3) along the rotation/ symmetry axis and/or the striking cap (3) includes a hollow-like depression (41).

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