GB2313322A - Inflatable soccer goal - Google Patents

Abstract

A soccer goal comprises uprights and cross bar made of inflatable PVC attached directly to a base which contains ballast.

Description

INFLATABLE CHILDREN'S SOCCER GOAL This invention relates to an inflatable PVC children's soccer goaL Miniaturised metal-framed goals have been widely used in junior competitive soccer, coaching and training exercises by representing a proportionate version of the appropriate target used within the sport.

This invention seeks to promote greater safety and portability in such activities by providing a simple, flexible device simulating an authentic goal, which removes potential injury caused by collision with the traditional metal framework and permits easy and speedy erection / dismantling.

The invention is comprised of a PVC, inflatable frame, which hosts two parallel, vertical posts affixed at the apeces to a horizontal crossbar. This when erected will form a rectangle; the ground forming the base line parallel to the above crossbar. Moulded to this union of posts and cross bar are two stanchion posts running from the joint in quarter-circular formation to the ground. Between these two outer stanchions, are two inner ones also adjoined to the crossbar, running to the ground in similar form. The stanchions will appear as 'ribs' the purpose being to support the frame of the goal in situ.

At the foot of each post and stanchion moulded at right angles, is a water-filled ballast tube comprising of two shorter members, appended to a horizontal cross-tube. The shape of the ballast tube will emulate that of the goal postsl bar proper and thus also appear rectangular. A painted surface line on the field (or imaginary line between the feet of the posts ) will serve as the fourth line of the rectangle. The whole ballast structure will be moulded to the feet of the goal posts I supporting stanchions.

The aim of the device is to allow the inflated body (goalposts and crossabr) to stand erect, secured by the ballast of the water-filled base The whole unit is ready for appropriate sporting activity. Players or apparatus (footballs) may strike the goal in the course of exercise without fear of harm or damage to the device. The buoyant body will shift and absorb shock, and due to its construction, will redeem its original shape for the exercise to continue.

For realism, a goal-net may be appended.

A specific embodiment of the invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawing in which : Figure 1 shows in perspective the inflated device ready for use (with optional goalnet).

Figure 2 shows the component body parts exploded :- goal posts, crossbar, supporting stanchions (inflatable unit); ballast tube (water-filled unit, (complete with optional net).

Figure 3 shows the device in use as a soccer training aid.

Figure 4 shows an alternative soccer training facility.

Figure 5 shows use of the device in competitive exercise in junior soccer.

Figure 6 shows alternative soccer training exercise for junior participants.

Referring to the drawing, the inflatable children's soccer goal comprising of a PVC frame 1, including two parellel upright posts moulded to horizontal crossbar and supported with four parallel stanchions. There is an inflation port 2 , for blowing up the frame. The inflatable frame is moulded to a ballast base at 3 which is filled and weighted with water via port 4. For optional, additional security on external, soft surface, eyelets 5, are inserted within the extremities of the ballast base to permit insertion of pegs into the ground.

The device is inflated or deflated within minutes using conventional means : footpump, airline.

The device is lightweight and portable It is durable and functional.

It may accommodate activity both indoor and outdoors in all weather and surface conditions.

Claims (3)

1. An inflatable children's soccer goal comprising of rectangular air-filled flexible PVC body, moulded to water-filled ballast frame at base.

2. An inflatable children's soccer goal as claimed in Claim 1 where simulation of the appropriate sport apparatus is provided in the form of a miniaturised version, appropriate to the needs of the participant. For realism, a net may be appended.

3. An inflatable children's soccer goal substantially described herein with referenee to Figure 1-6 of the accompanying drawing.