ES2836737T3 - Three-dimensional sports pads and related methods for adorning a sports uniform - Google Patents

Abstract

A three-dimensional pad (10) to be worn under the sportswear (22) to produce a desired image (30) through said sportswear (22), comprising: a removable pad (10) including a body (12) having a front face (14) and a rear face (16); a three-dimensional imaging element (18) attached to said front face (14) of said body (12) whereby when said pad (10) is placed under an area of exposed fabric (28) of said sportswear (22 ) an outline of the image (30) is produced, characterized in that said three-dimensional image element (18) has the form of a player number, a word or a name.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Three-dimensional sports pads and related methods for adorning a sports uniform

Technical field

This document relates generally to the field of sports equipment and more particularly to cheek pads, football pads and sports uniforms that include a three-dimensional image element to stand out and adorn the sports uniform.

Background of the invention

US Patent 4,591,521 to Freno et al. Describes a three-dimensional fabric design wherein novel or decorative fabrics with printed images include foam plastic pads to provide a three-dimensional effect. More particularly, the foam pads are shaped around the outline of the printed image and are permanently stitched into position. Reissued US Patent RE37,533 to Beige et al. Discloses apparel with semi-rigid fabric components, as well as a method of making them. The prior art includes US 2011/277226 A1, which discloses a three-dimensional pad according to the preamble of claim 1.

Significantly, the underlying pads in the Brake et al. Reference are permanently affixed to the back of the fabric and aligned with a printed design on the face of the fabric. Similarly, in the Beige et al. Reference, the semi-rigid components are a permanent part of the wardrobe. While such a construction is suitable for adding three-dimensional features to novel or decorative fabrics and apparel, there is no disclosure in these references of adorning sports uniforms such as soccer pants, soccer jerseys, or other sports equipment with three-dimensional ornamentation or trims. Furthermore, the permanent attachment of the pads to the fabric explicitly taught in these references is not suitable for this purpose.

This document refers to a three-dimensional pad for use under sportswear to produce a desired image through that sportswear. The pad includes a three-dimensional imaging element that attaches to the front face of the pad so that when the pad is placed under an area of tight, exposed fabric of the sportswear, an outline of the image is produced on the exposed fabric area. The three-dimensional picture element is in the form of a player number, a word or a name, or an unclaimed logo, wherein said logo is not part of the present invention. For the purposes of this document, the term logo refers to letters, numbers, trademarks, mascots, images, stripes, designs, and other three-dimensional shapes that can be commonly identified or used by sports teams, athletes, and individuals. For the purposes of this document, "pad" includes soccer thigh pads, soccer shoulder pads, soccer kidney pads, soccer coccyx pads, all other soccer pads, shin pads, knee pads, elbow pads, and all other pads. associated with sports in general.

Summary

The present invention is set forth in the appended claims. Embodiments, aspects and examples of the present disclosure that do not fall within the scope of said claims are provided for illustrative purposes only and do not form part of the present invention.

A three-dimensional pad for use under sportswear to produce a desired image through that sportswear comprises a removable pad that includes a body having a front face and a back face, and a three-dimensional imaging element that attaches to the front face of the body so when the pad is placed under an area of the exposed fabric of the sportswear an image outline is produced. According to the invention, the three-dimensional picture element is in the form of a player number, a word or a name. In another possible embodiment, the three-dimensional imaging element tapers outward from a central area toward an outer edge so that the central area protrudes a greater distance from the front face of the pad body than the outer edge. In yet another possible embodiment, the three-dimensional imaging element may include a background sheet. The background sheet may include a back face having a central area without adhesive and an edge area covered with adhesive.

According to a further unclaimed aspect, soccer pants are provided. These soccer pants comprise a pant body that includes a pocket to receive a soccer pad and a removable soccer pad. The removable soccer pad includes a pad body having a front face, a back face, and a three-dimensional imaging element secured to the front face. When the pad is placed in the pocket under an area of the exposed fabric of those soccer pants, an image outline is produced in the area of the exposed fabric. That three-dimensional picture element can be provided in the form of a logo, such as a team logo or a player number. Also, the image element Three-dimensional can taper outward from a central area toward an outer edge so that the central area protrudes a greater distance from the front face of the pad body than the outer edge. In addition, the three-dimensional picture element may include a background sheet.

In a non-claimed embodiment, the pocket is open at one end to allow the soccer pad to be inserted and removed from the pocket as desired. In yet another non-claimed embodiment, the exposed fabric area is a first color and the pixel is a different second color that is darker than the first color and shows through the exposed fabric area. In another non-claimed embodiment, the front face of the pad is also the first color. In a non-claimed embodiment, the first color is white. In another non-claimed embodiment, the exposed area of the fabric and the backsheet are of a first color and the pixel is a different second color that is darker than the first color and shows through the exposed area of the cloth.

According to a further unclaimed aspect, a method for promoting a sports team is provided. That method comprises the steps of wearing a pad with a three-dimensional image element under the sportswear of the sports equipment, producing a three-dimensional image or adornment that protrudes through an area of the exposed fabric of the sportswear covering the pad, and provides that image in the form of a logo. Also, that method includes using the exposed fabric area of the sportswear that has a first color and the 3D imaging element that has a second color that is darker than the first color and shows through the area of the fabric. exposed.

According to the invention, there is provided a method of adorning the uniform of a sports team. That method is defined in claim 5.

According to one aspect of the invention there is provided a kit for adorning a sports uniform. The kit is defined in claim 6. The kit further includes instructions.

In one embodiment, the kit includes an adhesive fastener. In one embodiment, the kit includes a hook and loop fastener. The adhesive, hook and loop fastener or any other means can be used to attach the 3D image element to the sports uniform or a pad that is worn under a sports uniform. In another non-claimed embodiment, the kit further includes a prior art sheet.

Finally, an unclaimed method of adorning a team uniform is provided. That method comprises purchasing a kit that includes a three-dimensional image element having a shape selected from a group consisting of a player number, a logo, and combinations thereof, and securing the three-dimensional element under an area of the exposed fabric of the team uniform. Furthermore, the method includes securing the three-dimensional element to a front face of a sports pad. In addition, the method includes inserting the pad into a pad pocket on a team uniform so that the three-dimensional imaging element projects an image through the area of exposed fabric covering the pad.

These and other embodiments will be set forth in the description that follows, and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the art with reference to the following description and referenced drawings.

Brief description of the drawings

The accompanying drawings incorporated herein and forming part of the specification illustrate various aspects of the three-dimensional pad, unclaimed soccer pants, and methods disclosed herein and together with the description serve to explain certain principles thereof. In the drawings:

Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of the sports pad including the three-dimensional imaging element.

Figure 2 is a side elevational view of the entire pad with the three-dimensional imaging element secured to the front face of the pad.

Figure 3 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a soccer shorts that includes a pocket that holds a pad with a three-dimensional image element.

Figure 4 is a perspective view of a sportswear or sports uniform decorating kit that includes a three-dimensional image element, a bra, and instructions.

Figure 5 is a perspective view illustrating how a three-dimensional element can taper from an inner area to an outer edge to enhance the outline of the three-dimensional image that it produces in the overlying exposed fabric area of a sports uniform.

Figures 6a-6d illustrate various three-dimensional elements for producing different image outlines.

Figure 7 is a side elevational view illustrating an imaging element incorporating a prior art sheet that covers roughnesses or other surface variations on a front face of a soccer pad and effectively prevents them from interfering or distorting the surface. desired image that protrudes through the area of the exposed fabric covering the image element.

Figure 8 is a rear elevational view of a background sheet illustrating the adhesive covered edge area.

Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiments, the examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

Detailed description

Reference is now made to Figures 1-3 which generally illustrate a three-dimensional pad 10 for use under athletic apparel 22 to produce a desired image outline 30 through that athletic apparel. As illustrated, the pad 10 includes a body 12 having a front face 14 and a rear face 16. In addition, the pad includes a three-dimensional imaging element 18 that is connected to the front face 14 by means of a fastener 20 such as a layer of adhesive or a hook and loop fastener system as sold under the VELCRO trademark. The imaging element 18 may include a three-dimensional logo 19 alone or a combination of the logo 19 and the backsheet 50, as illustrated, which is mounted directly to the front face 14 of the pad 10.

Reference is now made to Figure 3 which generally shows sportswear 22 such as soccer pants. The soccer pants 22 include a pocket 24 adapted to receive a pad 10 that is inserted into the pocket through an open end 26. When the pad 10 is properly inserted into the pocket 24, the three-dimensional imaging element 18 is directly located under an area of the exposed fabric 28 of tight fitting pants. As a result, an outline of the three-dimensional image 30 is produced across the exposed fabric area to adorn the sportswear 22 in a unique and exciting way.

Reference is now made to Figure 4 which illustrates a kit for adorning sportswear or a sports uniform 22. The kit 40 includes at least one three-dimensional image element 18 and a fastener 20 which is used to secure the three-dimensional image element directly to the sports uniform or a pad 10 worn under the sports uniform to be adorned. As illustrated, kit 40 includes a sheet of pre-cut number logos 19 and an optional background sheet 50 that can be cut into any desired shape and positioned between the three-dimensional logo 19 and the front face 14 of pad 10. Background 50 may be made of a contrasting color to pixel 18 to highlight and enhance the pixel. The background sheet 50 can also be used to cover the roughness and / or other surface features of the pad 10 to prevent them from interfering with the outline of the image 30 formed on the sports uniform by the logo 19 of the image element 18. In addition , kit 40 includes a set of instructions 42 detailing how to use the kit and adorn a sports uniform or other clothing.

In accordance with the invention, the three-dimensional picture element 18 is provided in the form of a player number, a word, or a name. In one possible embodiment, the imaging element 18 tapers outward from a central or inline area 44 toward an outer edge or contour 46 so that the central or inline area protrudes a greater distance from the front face 14 of the pad. 10 than the outer edge or contour (see Figure 5).

In one embodiment, the exposed fabric area 28 of the sportswear 22 is a first color, while the three-dimensional pixel 18 is a different second color. Image element 18 can be darker than the first color seen through the exposed fabric area, highlight the outline of image 30, and provide a hologram-like appearance. In one possible embodiment, the front face 14 of the pad 10 is also provided in the first color, matching the color of the exposed fabric area 28. In yet another embodiment, that first color is white.

The three-dimensional imaging element 18 can be solid, hollow, and contoured or a combination. For example, to form a "clover" logo, the clover shape can be cut from a 3mm thick piece of foam. The trimmed clover could be pulled out of the foam and attached to the thigh pad of the soccer pants. The resulting image outline 30 would appear as a solid clover. Also, the outline of the clover left in the foam can be used to show the image of a clover, but instead of being filled, it is an outline of a clover or a hollow three-dimensional image. Obviously, different widths and colors of foam can be used to create different images, shades, and appearances, including complex images, such as an American flag.

For some images, the logo 19 of the three-dimensional image element 18 has the same thickness throughout. However, as described above, the depth of the logo 19 can be manipulated to give the outline of the image 30 more or less detail and definition when it protrudes through the area of the exposed fabric. 28 from sportswear 22. For example, while a three-dimensional picture element 18 of an "O" may look like an "O" if the entire "O" is 3 mm thick, the inner line L-ide forming the "O" slightly higher than outer line L ² to create slanted face F allows inner circle of "O" to show differently and this can give different detail when viewed through clothing or cover (again see Figure 5). Also, there are a number of ways to manipulate an "O" to make it look different while ensuring that it is an "O". For example, you can make a perfect circle or an oval. This can be made flat instead of wavy. This can be done using only the outlines of the inner and outer circles. For some but not all images, the interior lines should be made slightly higher than the exterior ones so that the details show through. Also the use of rounded edges can help to give definition. For example, an American flag can be made by rounding the red stripes on the flag, omitting the white stripes, making the blue a rectangle with square edges, and adding slightly raised dots for the stars. This is an example of how different processes and shaping can be used to form a three-dimensional image element 18 that provides the desired image outline 30 that protrudes through the exposed fabric area 28 of the sportswear.

The three-dimensional imaging element 18 can be made of a number of different materials including, but not limited to, foams, high-density synthetics, foam rubbers, and plastics. Particularly useful foam materials include polyethylene foam, polypropylene foam, and PVC foam. Regardless of the chemical composition, it is preferred that the foam be a "closed cell" foam. In many cases, the three-dimensional imaging element 18 is made of the same material as the pad 10 to which it is attached, so that it can be used at sporting events without increasing any risk of injury.

As should be appreciated, the three-dimensional imaging element 18 can be perforated or cut from a foam sheet as described above. Alternatively, the three-dimensional imaging element 18 may be molded in a mold. The production operation used depends on the material being formed into an image and the intended use of the image. Logos 19, such as college logos, mascots, or trademarks, can be perforated or cut from the foam. Logos 19, such as single or interlocking letters such as "S", "OU", "NC", "ND", "UK", "3C", etc. (see Figures 6a and 6b) show and produce the desired image 30 whether they are solid letters, outlined letters, or a combination of both. Images of logos 19 can also be easily produced, such as an eagle and a cat's paw (see Figures 6c and 6d). At least five "O" images can be made from a punched / cut letter "O". The first image that could be cut would be a solid perforated "O". The remaining foam from which the perforated letter was produced could be used to show the outline and produce a "hollow" O image. The two "O" shapes left from the perforated foam (the one on the outside and the small one on the inside) could each be fully traced and cut into two different sized thin O's that could be used together in the separation. appropriate on the pad to result in a three-dimensional "O" outline.

The images or logos 19 formed in molds can receive additional detail in certain areas that is not possible with a simple punching operation. For example, molds can help by forming rounded parts, edges, and indentations. This allows the three-dimensional image element 18 to produce an outline of the image 30 that often has a significantly more detailed appearance from a simple perforated image. Imaging in a mold can help to give different depths within the same image to make it appear more realistic and provide the desired hologram effect to the outline of the image 30. It should also be appreciated that the three-dimensional imaging element 18 can be Manufactured in various sizes to fit different sized items. For example, an 18 three-dimensional picture element of an eagle could be 6 inches wide to fit a thigh pad, 4 inches wide to fit a hip protector, or 3 inches wide to fit a bone pad of tail. Obviously, they can also be manufactured in different colors depending on the desired effect. Only a portion of the entire three-dimensional imaging element 18 may include one or more colors to enhance the image as it protrudes or appears through the area of exposed fabric 28 that covers the imaging element 18.

In the embodiments discussed above, the three-dimensional imaging element 18 can be attached or attached directly to a front face of a pad 10. In one possible embodiment, the three-dimensional element 18 includes a backsheet 50 (see Figure 7). Such an embodiment can be placed in a pocket of pad 24 between pad 10 and the area of overlapping exposed fabric. When the exposed area of the fabric is stretched taut, friction is provided to secure the three-dimensional element 18 and the backsheet 50 in position on the face 14 of the pad 10. In such a situation, the provision of an additional fastener such as a Adhesive coating or hook and loop fasteners may not be necessary.

Many times, the pads 10 include an uneven front face that includes R ridges, I notches, or other features. In these situations, the backsheet 50 "smooths" the appearance of the front face 14 thus allowing the three-dimensional logo 19 on the image element 18 to produce a clearer and sharper outline of the image 30 across the area of the exposed fabric. 28 than would be possible if the background sheet was not used. In this situation, it is often helpful if the background sheet 50 is cut to the size and shape necessary to cover the roughness or other features of the pad surface to provide a smooth background that does not interfere with the three-dimensional image 30 that is desired to be produced by the logo 19. In addition, when color is used as a feature of element 18, the background sheet 50 it may, for example, be made the same color as the overlapping exposed fabric area 28 while the logo 19 includes one or more contrasting colors. In a particularly useful embodiment, the backsheet 50 is white to match soccer shorts while the logo in image 19 is a relatively dark contrast color that will show through the exposed fabric area 28 superimposed to enhance the produced image. The contrast color can be a traditional school or sports franchise color if desired. In another possible embodiment, the logo 19 on the imaging element 18 can be made of a color (eg, white) that matches the overlapping uniform, while the background sheet 50 is made of a darker contrasting color to outline the resulting image 30.

A possible embodiment of the backsheet 50 is illustrated in Figure 8. As shown, the back face 60 of the backsheet 50 includes an edge area 62 covered with adhesive and a central area 64 within the margin that does not include adhesive. Advantageously, the adhesive margin 62 allows the backsheet 50 to be adequately attached to the front face 14 of the underlying pad 10 while the adhesive-free central area 64 extends over any roughness R of the pad, bonding the ridges and providing a smooth surface for viewing the pixel 18.

This can be accomplished in two ways. In the first, the adhesive is only applied to the edge area 62 and not to the central area 64. In the second, the adhesive is applied to the entire back face 60 of the backsheet 50 and the adhesive-free central area 64 comprises a piece of foam of the desired shape that covers the adhesive in the central area. Such a piece of foam 64 helps to smoothly cover the roughnesses R and to further protrude and highlight the imaging element 18 provided on the front or opposite side of the background sheet 50.

According to additional aspects not claimed, a method for promoting a sports team is provided. That method can be broadly described as comprising the steps of wearing a pad 10 with a three-dimensional image element 18 under the sportswear 22 of the sports equipment, producing a three-dimensional image 30 that protrudes through an area of the exposed fabric 28 of the sportswear covering the pad and providing that image in the form of a logo, such as a team logo or player number. In another possible embodiment, the method includes using the area of the exposed fabric of the sportswear 22 that has a first color and the three-dimensional element 18 has a second color that is darker than the first color and is seen through the area of exposed tissue.

According to the invention there is provided a method of adorning or embellishing a sports team uniform. That method comprises wearing a pad 10 with a three-dimensional image element 18 according to any of claims 1 to 4 under the sports team uniform 22 and producing a three-dimensional image 30 that protrudes through an area of exposed fabric 28 of the sports team uniform covering the pad. The method includes providing the pixel 18 in the form of a player number, a word, or a name.

In addition, an unclaimed method of adorning a team uniform is provided. That method comprises acquiring a kit 40 that includes a three-dimensional image element 18 that has a shape selected from a group consisting of a player number, a logo, and a combination thereof, and then securing that three-dimensional element under the area of the image. exposed fabric 28 of the team uniform 22. This may include securing the three-dimensional element 18 to a front face 14 of a sports pad 10 and inserting that pad into a pad pocket 24 on the team uniform so that the three-dimensional element protrudes an image through the area of the exposed fabric 28 covering the pad. In one possible embodiment, kit 40 may include a sheet of material from which a user can cut an image element including one of their own creation if desired. Such equipment can also include a cutting instrument if desired.

In summary, numerous benefits are resolved by employing the three-dimensional pad and the methods described in this document. Specifically, a 3D imaging element 18 can be attached to any soccer pad, be it a knee pad, a thigh pad, a hip pad, a tailbone pad, a forearm pad, a shin pad. , a shoulder pad, a hand pad, or any other pad used in soccer or other sport. Once the three-dimensional image element 18 is attached and covered by an area of the exposed fabric 28 of the tight-fitting sportswear 22, an outline of the image 30 is shown through the area of the exposed fabric giving almost the appearance of a hologram. In this way it is possible to adorn the sportswear creating a very interesting and exciting effect that promotes the team and inspires players and fans alike. Significantly, the imaging element 18 is provided behind an area of overlapping exposed fabric 28 of a single color. This is not provided behind an area of the exposed fabric 28 including a complex pattern or image as any misalignment between the image element 18 and the complex pattern or image on the fabric 28 can distort the viewer's final image leading to a unwanted and unattractive result. In addition, the most useful embodiments include an image element 18 that can be removed from the pad 10 to allow the image to be changed.

Additionally, pad 10, which includes imaging element 18, can be removed from a pad pocket on the uniform to allow for better uniform cleaning and image changes.

The three-dimensional picture element takes the form of a player number, word or name, or other suitable non-claimed forms including, but not limited to, a non-claimed team logo. By changing the three-dimensional picture element from one set to another, it is possible to provide 30 picture outlines to celebrate different occasions. For example, for a game honoring our service men and women, the 3D imaging element may take the unclaimed form of an American flag. For a game the following week, the 3D imaging element may take the form of the unclaimed team logo. For a game the following week, the three-dimensional picture element may take the form of a player number. This number could be the actual number of the player using pixel 18. Alternatively, this could be the number of a current or former player who is being honored in some way, such as a celebration to honor a star player whose number is currently retiring. In fact, by changing the element of the three-dimensional image from game to game and week to week, it is possible to adorn the sports team uniform in a practically infinite number of different and exciting ways that will be anticipated and expected by fans and players alike.

The foregoing has been presented for the purpose of illustration and description. This is not intended to be exhaustive or limit the embodiments to the precise form disclosed. Obvious modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. For example, although this document has focused primarily on the improvement and ornamentation of soccer pads and soccer sports uniforms, other sports uniforms can be improved in the same way. Volleyball players can use the three-dimensional picture elements 18 to decorate knee and elbow pads. Similarly, soccer players can use 3D imaging elements to adorn their shin guards. The term "pads" should also be broad in scope to include sports sleeves, elastic knee supports, and other such devices used in virtually any sport. Indeed, any sports team in any sport can use three-dimensional imaging elements to enhance and adorn the team uniform. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the appended claims when construed to the full extent to which they are intended in a fair, legal and equitable manner.

Claims (9)

1. A three-dimensional pad (10) for use under sportswear (22) to produce a desired image (30) through said sportswear (22), comprising: a removable pad (10) including a body (12) having a front face (14) and a rear face (16); a three-dimensional imaging element (18) attached to said front face (14) of said body (12) whereby when said pad (10) is placed under an area of exposed fabric (28) of said sportswear (22 ) an outline of the image (30) is produced, characterized in that said three-dimensional picture element (18) is in the form of a player number, a word or a name. The pad (10) of claim 1, wherein said three-dimensional imaging element (18) tapers outward from a central area (44) toward an outer edge (46) such that said central area (44) protrudes a greater distance from said front face (14) of said body (12) than from said outer edge (46). The pad (10) of claim 1, wherein said three-dimensional imaging element (18) includes a background sheet (50). The pad (10) of claim 3, wherein said backsheet (50) includes a back face (60) having an adhesive-free central area (64) and an adhesive-covered edge area (62) . 5. A method of adorning a sports team uniform (22), comprising: wearing a three-dimensional pad (10) with a three-dimensional imaging element (18) according to any preceding claim under said sports team uniform (22); Y producing a three-dimensional image (30) protruding through an area of exposed fabric (28) of said sports team uniform (22) covering said pad (10). 6. A kit (40) to decorate a sports uniform, comprising: the three-dimensional pad (10) of any of claims 1 to 4; Y a bra that attaches said image element to said sports uniform or to a pad that is worn under said sports uniform. The kit (40) of claim 6, further including instructions (42). 8. The kit (40) of claim 6 or 7, including an adhesive fastener. The kit (40) of claim 6 or 7, including a hook and loop fastener.