GB2520180B - A removable grip for a sporting implement - Google Patents

Description

“A removable grip for a sporting implement”

The present invention concerns grips for sporting implements such as clubs, sticks or racquets for sports such as tennis, badminton, squash, golf or hockey, and particularly relates to a grip to attach to the grip portion or handle of a sporting implement.

The grip portion of a sports implement is conventionally provided with a grip in the form of a grip tape which is wrapped and/or twisted around the implement’s grip portion. These grip tapes are intended to enable a player to hold the implement comfortably and allows the player to grip the implement firmly for control during use. Furthermore, a grip provides an element of shock and vibration absorption reducing the possibility of injury and/or muscle strain upon the implement’s impact with a ball or the like during normal use. However, over the course of time, due to physical stress and sweat absorption, the grip will become worn and will eventually require replacement.

Grip tape replacement is a labour-intensive activity and requires some experience to achieve a satisfactory repair. Furthermore, for some sporting implements, such as a tennis racquet or the like, the relationship between the racquet end cap and the grip tape can prove problematic. This is due to the fact that the grip tape may not adhere sufficiently once twisted from the longitudinal plane of the racquet handle to the racquet end cap. As a result, the tape will become loose with use. A further disadvantage is that the grip tape must be attached tightly. This requires an operator to keep a significant application force on the tape during application so that the tape does not slip or move when the racquet is in use. As a result, the attachment of a new grip can become laborious, time-consuming and often inefficient for a player of any skill level e.g. from amateur to a more experienced player.

It is an object of the present invention to obviate or mitigate the above problems by providing a grip for a sporting implement whereby the grip is readily installed onto a handle of the implement without requiring time or skill.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a grip for a handle of a sporting implement comprising an elongate tubular sleeve formed with a handle receiving channel defined by the tubular sleeve’s internal profile, the tubular sleeve’s internal profile having an interference means extending along all or a substantial part of the elongate sleeve for positively engaging a handle of a sporting implement insertable therein.

Advantageously, an interference means that extends along all or a substantial part of the length of the elongated sleeve provides maximum grip between the sleeve and the handle of the implement providing the user with greater confidence in the grip. It also provides the grip and implement combination with a greater longevity without the need of an adhesive or the like wherein the grip comprises of an elongate tubular sleeve having an open end for receiving a handle and the internal perimeter surface of the tubular sleeve proximal to the open end of the tubular sleeve is chamfered..

Furthermore, it allows the user to confidently alternate hand positions on the handle and vary their grip strength because of the integrity of the interconnection between the grip and handle. This means that users are not inclined to hold the grip sleeve with a consistently intense grasp for maintaining control. This type of application of gripping force could result in loss of power and increased muscular fatigue in the user’s forearm which could ultimately lead to an increased risk of injury.

Further advantageously, when the handle of the sporting implement is offered up to the open end of the tubular sleeve, this open end has a chamfer at the entrance the tubular sleeve. This provides ease of access for the handle of the sporting implement so to avoid any buckling of the grip sleeve structure.

Ideally, the interference means is deformable.

Preferably, the grip sleeve is deformable.

Preferably, the sleeve’s inner profile has internal dimensions equal to or just less than that of the external dimensions of the sporting implement.

Advantageously, the sleeve is a tight fit with the additional interference means providing the additional gripping force.

Further advantageously, the deformable interference means and/or deformable sleeve allows the sleeve to undergo a deformation as the sleeve is pushed onto the handle of the sporting implement. This forms an interference fit extending along and between all or a substantial part of the full length of the sleeve and implement handle combination. This enables the grips position on the racquet to remain constant during normal use, without the requirement of an adhesive or other mechanical fixings or the like.

Furthermore, the deformable sleeve and/or deformable interference means is designed to prevent rotation of the grip on the handle and is also designed to prevent longitudinal slip of the grip along the handle in the longitudinal direction of the handle. It also enhances the control of the sporting implement; when the ball strikes the racquet off-center for example. As a result, it also permits a higher consistency of precision for sports people in accordance with the requirements and possibilities of their game.

Ideally, the internal profile of the deformable sleeve is designed to adapt to the various cross-sectional shapes and sizes of most commercially available sporting implements within a specific sport.

As an example, the internal profile of the tubular sleeve of the grip designed for tennis racquets is designed to accommodate the major cross-sectional shapes including minor dimensional adjustments of commercially available tennis racquets.

Preferably, the cross-sectional internal profile of the sleeve is polygonal.

Ideally, the cross-sectional internal profile of the sleeve is octagonal.

Preferably, the cross-sectional internal profile of the sleeve is circular.

Ideally, the cross-sectional internal profile of the sleeve is quadrilateral.

Preferably, the cross-sectional internal profile of the sleeve is triangular.

Ideally, the grip is adapted to be removably mountable on the elongate grip portion of a sporting implement such as a tennis racquet or the like.

Advantageously, this reduces the laborious and time-consuming process of tape grip replacement to a simple push on and pull off process with the tubular grip.

Preferably, the grip is comprised of a moulded unit.

Advantageously, this moulded unit provides a user with a grip that is easily pressed onto and removed from the sporting implement handle. This simple removal and reattachment enables the user to use a range of grips depending on user’s hand size. Furthermore, the grip is capable of withstanding the pressures exerted upon it by the handle during insertion of the handle via sleeve deformation. The homogeneous nature of the sleeve eliminates any risk of structural deficiencies or weak points along the length of the sleeve which can be a problem with the prior art solutions. A further advantage of a moulded unit that is removably mountable in a quick and simple fashion such as this, is that it is easy to add or remove weight to or from a sporting implement. As an example, to counter-balance the weight of a tennis racquet, an operator is required to unwind and remove the conventional grip tape along with the racquet end cap. Subsequently the conventional method requires that either weighted pellets are inserted into the racquet shaft or lead tape is used to customise a racquet with an increased weight. This weight customisation is of benefit to players who require modifications to the power of a shot depending on match play conditions. The present invention however reduces this complex method to a simple press on and pull off method whereby the weight of sporting implement can be adjusted by selecting the weight of the grip.

Ideally, the grip as described weighs between 60g to 140g.

Preferably, the grip as described weighs between 80g to 120g.

Ideally, the external surface of the moulded unit provides a surface for carrying printed designs, logos or advertising media.

Ideally, the external perimeter surface of the tubular sleeve proximal to the open end of the tubular sleeve is also chamfered.

Advantageously, this allows ease of use with an auxiliary securing means further described below.

Preferably, the external surface of the grip sleeve comprises wear gauge means.

Ideally, the wear gauge means extends along all or a substantial length of the external surface of the grip sleeve.

Preferably, the wear gauge means comprise a plurality of protrusion means.

Ideally, the wear gauge protrusion means protrudes orthogonally from the external surface of the grip sleeve.

Preferably, the wear gauge protrusion means protrude from the external surface of the grip sleeve to be operatory engageable with a player’s hand.

Ideally, the wear gauge protrusion means gradually wear down due to friction with an operator’s hand during use.

Advantageously, this wear gauge means on the external surface of the grip provides an operator with a simple and effective means to determine the life span of the grip i.e. the time in which a replacement grip should be utilised. The conventional means of grip replacement requires that an operator responds to haptic feedback to identify that the grip has become loose on the sporting implement handle hence less effective. The wear gauge means of the present invention provides an operator with a better and earlier indicator of grip performance deterioration, by providing a visual stimuli indicating weakening of the interference fit and overall structural integrity of the grip.

Preferably, the end wall comprises an air hole.

Advantageously, the air hole provides air pressure release during the insertion and removal of the handle of a sporting implement into and out of the receiving channel of the tubular grip.

Ideally, the grip’s tubular sleeve is radially flared on the outer profile proximal to and towards the closed end of the grip.

Preferably, the grip’s tubular sleeve is octagonally radially flared on the outer profile proximal to and towards the closed end of the grip.

Advantageously, this allows for a user to readily adapt to the above grip from traditional grips used in the previous prior art. Conventional sporting racquets for ball games require grip replacement in the form of a grip. Generally, the end cap itself is utilised as a guide for racquet orientation when approaching impact with the ball by providing the user with haptic feedback in relation to the exact location of the racquet relative to their hand. Furthermore, it also provides the user with an extra leverage point which can ultimately aid them in fine-tuning their technique. The grip’s tubular sleeve is radially flared on the outer profile proximal to the end wall to achieve this result with the present invention. Therefore, the main advantages of the conventional prior art end cap are maintained. Furthermore, as the present invention is a moulded unit, this renders the current end cap obsolete and also translates to cheaper manufacturing costs. As a result, this leaves the task of grip replacement a lot simpler.

Ideally, the interference means comprises protrusion means which project into the handle receiving channel.

Preferably the interference means projects into a space occupyable by the external boundary of the grip portion of the handle locatable in the receiving channel in the normal orientation of the protrusion means.

Ideally, the protrusion means is integrally formed with the tubular sleeve.

Preferably, the protrusion means comprises axial protrusion means and/or radial protrusions means.

Ideally, the grip is formed from an elastomeric material.

Preferably, the grip is formed from an elastomeric composite material.

Ideally, the grip is formed from laminated elastomeric materials.

Preferably, the grip internal wall and external wall are formed by at least two laminated elastomeric materials. In a preferred embodiment, the internal wall of the grip is manufactured from a firm and durable elastomeric material and the external wall of the grip is manufactured from a softer elastomeric material providing good tactile grip and comfortable handling.

Preferably, the grip comprises an inner elastomeric tube and an outer elastomeric tube.

Ideally, the inner elastomeric tube is manufactured from a firm and durable elastomeric material and the outer elastomeric tube is manufactured from a softer elastomeric material providing good tactile grip and comfortable handling.

Preferably, the grip comprises an inner tube and an outer covering.

Ideally, the inner tube is manufactured from rubber and the outer covering is manufactured from polyurethane.

Alternatively, the outer covering or outer elastomeric layer is provided by thermoplastic or thermosetting polymeric materials, synthetic rubber type polymeric materials,such as vinyls (e.g., ethylvinylacetates, etc.), nylons, polyethers, polybutylene terephthalates or any similar suitable material.

Ideally, the inner elastomeric layer or inner tube has a durometer value range of 45 to 55 on a shore A scale.

Ideally, the outer elastomeric layer or outer covering has a durometer value range of 25 to 48 on a shore A scale.

Ideally, the outer covering has an adhesive on an internal surface being applied to the outside surface of the inner tube.

Preferably, the outer covering is provided by an elongate strip of material.

Preferably, the strip is evenly wound along the outside surface of the inner tube.

Ideally, the outer covering extends a short distance beyond the inner tube with the extending portion of the outer covering carrying an adhesive covered with a removable tab.

Preferably, the tab is peelable from the adhesive for coupling the adhesive coated extending portion of the outer covering to the handle of the sporting implement.

Advantageously, the elastomeric material allows for the universal application of the grip if the handle grip portion of the implement does not have a uniform cross-section along its length i.e. if the grip portion is slightly conical in shape tapering slightly towards the head of the implement.

Further advantageously, the laminated elastomeric material provides the grip with a durable internal wall capable of withstanding the pressures exerted upon it during the insertion of the sporting implement handle as well as during use. Furthermore, the external grip wall is soft to touch allowing for an operator to firmly and comfortably grasp the sporting implement during their game while maintaining a high level of haptic feedback for the player.

Preferably, the outer elastomeric tube extends across the entire longitudinal and latitudinal lengths of the inner elastomeric tube.

Ideally, the outer elastomeric tube extends a short distance beyond the open end of that of the inner elastomeric tube.

Preferably, a portion of the outer elastomeric tube is contactable with the sporting implement handle.

Ideally, the grip is formed of polyurethane.

Preferably, the grip is formed of silicone.

Ideally, the grip is formed of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

Preferably, the grip is formed of polypropylene.

Ideally, the grip is formed of polyethylene.

Preferably, the grip is formed of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

Most preferably, the grip is formed of rubber.

Preferably, the grip is pre-moulded to shape.

Ideally, the grip is pre-moulded to shape using injection moulding.

Preferably, the injection moulding utilises a compression tool.

In one particularly preferred embodiment, the outer profile of the elongate tubular sleeve is octagonal.

Advantageously, the outer profile mimics and maintains a tennis racquets traditional octagonal cross-sectional shape allowing the user to modify their grip naturally and comfortably on the grip pushed onto the racquet. This is particularly advantageous for the forehand, backhand and service strokes.

Preferably, where the inner profile of the sleeve is cylindrical, the protrusion means comprise a plurality of spaced apart continuous or discontinuous annular ribs or continuous or discontinuous axially extending ribs.

Ideally, the sleeve inner profile comprises of a polygonal cross-section with bevelled corners along all or a substantial part of the length of the tubular sleeve.

Preferably, the bevelled corners comprise the protrusion means on the grip with a polygonal cross-section

Ideally, the sleeve inner profile comprises of a generally octogonal cross-section with bevelled sides along all or a substantial part of the length of the sleeve.

Preferably, the octogonal configuration of the inner sleeve profile is characterised in that the bevelled sides have a flat or curved surface.

Advantageously, the flat or curved nature of the bevelled sides provides a mechanism for the universal fitting of sporting implements which vary from the normal dimensions of conventional factory production.

Ideally, the grip is formed for operable engagement with an auxiliary securing means.

Preferably, the auxiliary securing means is provided by a tapered front end cap.

Preferably, the tapered front end cap comprises an elongated tubular sleeve tapering from a first expanded open end for receiving the open end of the grip to a second diverging open end for engaging the handle of the sporting implement.

Preferably, the first expanded open end is formed for overlapping the chamfered portion of the open end of the grip.

Ideally, the tapered front end cap replaces the conventional tape/end ring.

Advantageously, the tapered front end cap extends over a greater distance, preferably up to three times the length of the traditional tape/end ring. This provides a more stable, sturdy and secure joint between the grip and the tapered front end cap.

Preferably, the overall length of the tapered front end cap is in the range of 20mm to 30mm and most preferably 25mm.

Ideally, the diameter of the expanded open end of the tapered front end cap is in the range of 30mm to 34mm and most ideally 32mm.

Preferably, the diameter of the diverging open end of the tapered front end cap is in the range of 23mm to 27mm and most preferably 25mm.

Ideally, the tapered front end cap is formed from an elastomeric material.

Preferably, the tapered front cap is formed of polyurethane.

Ideally, the tapered front cap is formed of silicone.

Preferably, the tapered front cap is formed of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

Ideally, the tapered front cap is formed of polypropylene.

Preferably, the tapered front cap is formed of polyethylene.

Ideally, the tapered front cap is formed of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

Most preferably, the tapered front cap is formed of rubber.

Alternatively, the grip as defined maintains an auxiliary securing feature which is provided by an elasticated end-ring or adhesive.

Ideally, the elasticated end-ring comprises an elongated tubular sleeve to receive both the handle of the sporting implement and the open end of the grip with internal dimensions equal to or just less than that of the external dimensions of the sporting implement.

Advantageously, the end-ring provides a tight fit with the additional interference means providing the auxiliary securing feature.

Preferably, the end-ring is formable from an elastomeric material.

Ideally, the end-ring is formed of polyurethane.

Preferably, the end-ring is formed of silicone.

Ideally, the end-ring is formed of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

Preferably, the end-ring is formed of polypropylene.

Ideally, the end-ring is formed of polyethylene.

Preferably, the end-ring is formed of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

Most preferably, the end-ring is formed of rubber.

Preferably, the end-ring is located proximal to the open end of the tubular sleeve.

Ideally, the end-ring is moveable over the grip’s tubular sleeve.

Preferably, an adhesive is locatable on the inner profile of the grip elongate tubular sleeve to further secure the grip to the sporting implement handle.

Ideally, the adhesive is locatable proximal to the open end of the grip elongate tubular sleeve.

Preferably, the adhesive is locatable from the open end of the grip elongate tubular sleeve extending approximately 5mm to 15mm towards the closed end of the sleeve.

Most preferably, the adhesive is locatable from the open end of the grip elongate tubular sleeve extending approximately 10mm towards the closed end of the sleeve.

Alternatively, the adhesive is a band locatable on the external profile of the grip at the open end of the elongate tubular sleeve and extends from the open end of the grip to approximately 5mm to 15mm towards the closed end of the sleeve the adhesive band having a portion extending forwardly from the open end of the grip to approximately 5mm to 15mm beyond the open end of the grip.

Ideally, the protruding portion of the band is foldable back on top of the portion of the band encircling the outside profile of the grip in an overlapping configuration.

Preferably, the outwardly facing surface of the overlapping adhesive band has a nonadhesive cover covering an adhesive surface, peelable to allow this adhesive to engage the sporting implement in use.

Ideally, the adhesive that extends beyond the open end of the grip is foldable.

Alternatively, in embodiments where the outer elastomeric tube extends a short distance beyond the open end of that of the inner elastomeric tube, the adhesive is beatable on the inner profile of the extending portion of the outer elastomeric tube.

Preferably, the adhesive is an adhesive strip.

Ideally, an equally dimensioned non-adhesive cover is arranged on the adhesive strip.

It should be appreciated that in the case whereby the adhesive is beatable on the external profile of the grip elongate tubular sleeve the non-adhesive cover is equally dimensioned to the portion of the adhesive which extends beyond the open end of grip.

Preferably, the non-adhesive cover is a pull-tag structure extending slightly beyond the open end of the grip tubular sleeve.

Advantageously, this pull-tag extending beyond the open end of the grip tubular sleeve, provides the operator grip with an auxiliary securing means comprising a quick and easy attachment mechanism which can further secure the grip once the sporting implement handle has been inserted into the receiving channel.

Alternatively, the hand grip as defined maintains an auxiliary securing feature which is provided by the conventional grip tape located proximal to the open end of the tubular sleeve, if required.

In a further alternate embodiment, the hand grip inner profile is provided with at least one receiving member beatable proximal to the open end of the grip tubular sleeve to engage with a correspondingly located protrusion member beatable upon the sporting implement handle, this engagement between the receiving member of the grip tubular sleeve and the protrusion member of the sporting implement handle providing an auxiliary securing means.

In the further alternate embodiment, the receiving member proximal to the open end of the grip is provided by at least one indentation of the grip tubular sleeve’s inner profile to engage with the protrusion member beatable on the sporting implement handle.

Preferably, the interference means extends along 70% or more of the entire length of the inner profile of the elongate tubular sleeve.

Ideally, the interference means extends along 80% or more of the entire length of the inner profile of the elongate tubular sleeve.

Preferably, the interference means extends along 90% or more of the entire length of the inner profile of the elongate tubular sleeve.

Most preferably, the interference means extends along the entire length of the inner profile of the elongate tubular sleeve.

Ideally, a range of tubular wall thickness’s are provided.

Advantageously, this allows a user to utilise grips with different outer profile dimensions to accommodate injury prevention and different hand sizes.

The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings which shows by way of example an embodiment of an apparatus in the form of a tennis racquet tubular grip in accordance with the invention. In the drawings:

Figure 1 is a lateral view of an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 is a cross sectional view of the elongate grip taken along A-A of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a cross sectional view of the grip tubular sleeve at B-B of Figure 1;

Figure 4 is a first end view of the grip of figure 1 illustrating the inner profile of the sleeve and integral grip end wall;

Figure 5 is a second end view of the integral grip end wall;

Figure 6 is a cross sectional view of a second embodiment of laminated grip.

Figure 7 is a perspective view of the grip auxiliary securing feature embodiment incorporating the adhesive upon the grip tubular sleeve inner profile with the associated nonadhesive ring-pull covering attached.

Figure 8 is a perspective view of the grip auxiliary securing feature embodiment incorporating the adhesive upon the grip tubular sleeve outer profile with the associated nonadhesive covering attached.

Figure 9 is a perspective view of the grip auxiliary securing feature embodiment incorporating the adhesive upon the grip tubular sleeve outer profile with the associated nonadhesive covering removed.

Figure 10 is a perspective view of the grip auxiliary securing feature embodiment incorporating the adhesive upon the grip tubular sleeve outer profile and secured to a sporting implement.

Figure 11 is an end view of an alternate embodiment of the grip.

Figure 12 is an elevation view of the alternate embodiment of the grip of Figure 11.

Referring to the drawings generally, there is shown a grip (1) for a handle of a sporting implement in this case a tennis racquet (not shown) having an elongate tubular sleeve (2) formed with a handle receiving channel (3) defined by the tubular sleeve’s internal profile (4). The tubular sleeve’s internal profile (4) has an interference arrangement (5) extending along the entire length of the elongate sleeve (2) for positively engaging a handle of a sporting implement (not shown) insertable into the handle receiving channel (3). Advantageously, an interference arrangement (5) that extends along the entire length of the elongated sleeve (2) provides maximum grip between the sleeve (2) and the handle of the implement providing the user with greater confidence in the grip (1). It also provides the grip (1) and implement combination with a greater longevity without the need of an adhesive or the like. Furthermore, it allows the user to confidently alternate hand positions on the handle and vary their grip strength because of the integrity of the interconnection between the grip (1) and handle.

The grip sleeve (2) and the interference arrangement (5) are deformable. The sleeve’s inner profile (4) has internal dimensions equal to or just less than that of the external dimensions of the sporting racquet.

Advantageously, the deformable interference arrangement (5) and deformable sleeve (2) allows the sleeve (2) to undergo a deformation as the sleeve (2) is pushed onto the handle of the implement. This forms an interference fit extending along and between all or a substantial part of the full length of the sleeve (2) and implement handle combination. This enables the grips position on the racquet to remain constant during normal use, without the requirement of an adhesive or other mechanical fixings or the like. Nonetheless some additional fixing can be achieved with an adhesive tape at the open end.

The deformable sleeve (2) and deformable interference arrangement (5) are designed to prevent rotation of the grip (1) on the handle and they are also designed to prevent longitudinal slip of the grip (1) along the handle in the longitudinal direction of the handle. It also enhances control of the sporting implement when the ball strikes the racquet off-center for example. As a result, it permits a higher consistency of precision for sports people in accordance with the requirements and possibilities of their game. The internal profile (4) of the deformable sleeve (2) is designed to adapt to the various cross-sectional shapes and sizes of most commercially available sporting implements within a specific sport. As an example, the internal profile (4) of the tubular sleeve (2) of the grip (1) designed for tennis racquets is designed to accommodate the major cross-sectional shapes including minor dimensional adjustments of commercially available tennis racquets.

The cross-sectional internal profile (4) of this tennis racquet sleeve (2) shown is octagonal. In alternative arrangements not shown in the drawings, the cross-sectional internal profile of the sleeve can be any one of circular, quadrilateral or triangular or indeed any shape to accommodate the handle of a sporting implement. The grip (1) is adapted to be removably mounted on the elongate grip portion of a sporting implement such as a tennis racquet or the like. Advantageously, this reduces the laborious and time-consuming process of tape grip replacement to a simple push on and pull off process with the tubular grip (1).

The grip (1) is a one piece moulded unit comprised of an elongate tubular sleeve (2) having an open end (6) designed for receiving a handle of a sporting implement and a closed end in the form of the integral grip end wall (7). This one piece moulded unit provides a user with a grip (1) that is easily pressed onto and removed from the implement handle. This simple removal and reattachment enables the user to use a range of grips depending on hand size. Furthermore, the grip (1) is capable of withstanding the pressures exerted upon it by the handle during insertion of the racquet handle via sleeve deformation. This is because the homogeneous nature of the sleeve (2) eliminates any risk of structural deficiencies or weak points along the length of the sleeve (2) which can be a problem with the prior art solutions.

The grip end wall (7) comprises an air hole (8). This air hole (8) provides air pressure release during the insertion and removal of the handle of a sporting implement into and out of the receiving channel (3) of the tubular grip (1).

The grip’s tubular sleeve (2) is radially flared at (11) on the outer profile (9) proximal to and towards the closed end (7) of the grip (1). Advantageously, this allows for a user to readily adapt to the present invention from traditional grips used in the previous prior art. Conventional sporting racquets for ball games require grip replacement in the form of a grip tape. Generally, the end cap itself is utilised as a guide for racquet orientation when approaching impact with the ball by providing the user with haptic feedback in relation to the exact location of the racquet relative to their hand. Furthermore, it also provides the user with an extra leverage point which can ultimately aid them in fine-tuning their technique. The grip tubular sleeve (2) is radially flared on the outer profile (9) proximal to the end wall (7) to achieve this result with the present invention. Therefore, the main advantages of the conventional prior art end cap are maintained. In addition, as the present invention is a single piece moulded unit this renders the flared section/plastic end cap of the prior art obsolete. As a result, this leaves the task of grip replacement a lot simpler.

The grip (1) is formed from an elastomeric material. Advantageously, the elastomeric material allows for the universal application of the grip (1) if the handle grip portion of the implement does not have a uniform cross-section along its length i.e. if the grip portion is slightly conical in shape tapering slightly towards the head of the implement.

The grip (1) is pre-moulded to shape via the process of injection moulding and is formed of polyurethane. In alternative arrangements, the grip (1) can be formed of rubber, silicone, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene or polyethylene or indeed any elastomeric material which could accommodate the handle of a sporting implement and withstand the pressure of the handle’s insertion into the grip (1).

In a particularly preferred embodiment of grip (1) shown in the drawings, the outer profile (9) of the sleeve (2) is octagonal. Advantageously, the outer octagonal profile (9) mimics and maintains a tennis racquets traditional octagonal cross-sectional shape allowing the user to modify their grip naturally and comfortably on the grip pushed onto the racquet. This is particularly advantageous for forehand, backhand and service strokes.

Although not shown in the present embodiment but as an alternative arrangement, where the inner profile of the sleeve is cylindrical, the protrusion arrangement is comprised of a plurality of spaced apart continuous or discontinuous annular ribs or continuous or discontinuous axially extending ribs (not shown). According to the present embodiment as shown in the drawings the sleeve inner profile (4) has an octagonal cross-section with bevelled sides (10) along the entire length of the tubular sleeve (2). These bevelled sides (10) of the octagonal cross-section of the sleeve’s inner profile (4) have a flat or curved surface. This flat or curved nature of the bevelled sides (10) provides a benefit to the grip (1) that enables the fitting of a sporting implement which varies from the normal dimensions of conventional factory production.

The hand grip as defined is formed for operable engagement with an auxiliary securing feature (generally referenced by numeral 41). The internal and external perimeters (31 and 32 respectively) of the surface of the tubular sleeve (2) proximal to the open end (6) are chamfered. Advantageously, this allows ease of use with the auxiliary securing feature (41). This auxiliary securing feature (41) is provided by either a tapered front end cap (not shown), an elasticated end-ring (not shown), an adhesive band (see Figures 7 to 10) or an engagement mechanism incorporating a protrusion member located on the sporting implement handle and a receiving member located on the grip inner profile (not shown).

The tapered front end cap is formed from an elastomeric material and comprises an elongated tubular sleeve tapering from a first expanded open end to receive the open end 6 of the grip tubular sleeve (2) to a second diverging open end for engaging the handle of the sporting implement. Alternatively, the end-ring auxiliary securing feature is formed from the elasticated rubber and is located proximal to the open end (6) of the tubular sleeve (2). This location enables the end-ring to move over the grip (1) tubular sleeve (2), further sealing the grip’s open end (6).

Referring to the drawings and now to Figures 7 to 12 there is shown the three varying embodiments of the grip auxiliary securing feature (41) by means of an adhesive band (42). The adhesive (42) is located at the open end of the grip (6) on either the inner profile (4) or the outer profile (9) of the grip tubular sleeve (2). Alternatively, in embodiments where the outer elastomeric tube (24) extends a short distance beyond the open end of that of the inner elastomeric tube (45), the adhesive (42) is located on the inner profile (46) of the extending portion of the outer elastomeric tube (24). A non-adhesive pull-tag cover (43) is equally dimensioned to cover any exposed portion of the adhesive (42) and the pull-tag (44) provides a quick and easy attachment mechanism to further secure the grip (1) once the sporting implement handle has been inserted into the grip receiving channel (3).

In a further alternate embodiment, the hand grip inner profile is provided with at least one receiving member (not shown) located proximal to the open end (6) of the grip tubular sleeve (2) to engage with a correspondingly located protrusion member (not shown) located upon the sporting implement handle (not shown). This engagement between the receiving member of the grip tubular sleeve (2) and the protrusion member of the sporting implement handle provides the auxiliary securing feature. In this further alternate embodiment, the receiving member proximal to the open end of the grip (6) is provided by at least one indentation of the grip tubular sleeve inner profile (4) to engage with the protrusion member locatable on the sporting implement handle.

The interference arrangement (5) extends along at least 70% of the entire length of the inner profile (4) of the elongate tubular sleeve (2). However, in the preferred embodiment the interference arrangement (5) will extend the entire length of the elongate tubular sleeve (2).

One particularly preferred embodiment of the grip (1) as shown in the drawings relates to a grip for an adult tennis racquet. In this embodiment, the length of the tubular sleeve (2) from the grip’s open end (6) to the grip end wall (7) is 175mm. The outer width and height of the tubular sleeve (2) are 38.50mm and 34.50mm at the main section, flaring at 11 to 48.00mm and 45.00mm at the end wall (7). The thickness of the grip tubular sleeve wall is 3mm at the main section.

Referring to the drawings and now to Figure 6 there is shown a second embodiment of grip indicated generally by the reference numeral (21). All of the features of the grip are similar in function and form as the grip illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 so the same reference numerals have been used to designate the same features. In this embodiment, the grip internal wall (23) and external wall (24) are formed by two laminated elastomeric materials. The internal wall (23) of the grip (21) is manufactured from a firm and durable elastomeric material and the external wall (24) of the grip (21) is manufactured from a softer elastomeric material providing good tactile grip and comfortable handling. The grip (21) comprises an inner elastomeric tube (23) and an outer elastomeric tube (24).

As shown in Figure 6 the outer elastomeric tube (24) extends across the entire longitudinal and latitudinal lengths of the inner elastomeric tube (23). In alternate embodiments the outer elastomeric tube (24) extends a short distance beyond the open end of that of the inner elastomeric tube to be contactable with the sporting implement handle.

In a further alternative embodiment shown in Figures 11 and 12 the grip comprises an inner tube (45) and an outer covering (46). The inner tube (45) manufactured from rubber and the outer covering (46) manufactured from polyurethane. The outer covering (46) has an adhesive on an internal surface being applied to the outside surface of the inner tube. The outer covering (46) is provided by an elongate strip of material (48) evenly wound along the outside surface of the inner tube (45). The outer covering (46) extends a short distance beyond the inner tube (45) with the extending portion of the outer covering carrying an adhesive (47) covered with a removable tab (49). The tab (49) is peelable from the adhesive (47) for coupling the adhesive coated extending portion of the outer covering (50) to the handle of the sporting implement.

The external surface of the grip sleeve (2) has a wear gauge arrangement (27). The wear gauge arrangement comprises a plurality of protrusion (27) extending along part of the length of grip (21). The protrusions (27) protrude from the external surface of the grip sleeve (2) to be in contact with a player’s hand during use of the sporting implement and gradually wear down due to friction with an operator’s hand during use. Advantageously, this wear gauge (27) on the external surface of the grip (21) provides an operator with a simple and effective means to determine the life span of the grip (21) i.e. the time in which a replacement grip (21) should be put on the sporting implement. The wear gauge (27) of the present invention provides an operator with a better and earlier indicator of grip performance deterioration, by providing a visual as well as tactile stimuli indicating weakening of the interference fit and overall structural integrity of the grip (21).

In relation to the detailed description of the different embodiments of the invention, it will be understood that one or more technical features of one embodiment can be used in combination with one or more technical features of any other embodiment where the transferred use of the one or more technical features would be immediately apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art to carry out a similar function in a similar way on the other embodiment.

In the preceding discussion of the invention, unless stated to the contrary, the disclosure of alternative values for the upper or lower limit of the permitted range of a parameter, coupled with an indication that one of the said values is more highly preferred than the other, is to be construed as an implied statement that each intermediate value of said parameter, lying between the more preferred and the less preferred of said alternatives, is itself preferred to said less preferred value and also to each value lying between said less preferred value and said intermediate value.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description or the following drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing a disclosed function, or a method or a process of attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may separately, or in any combination of such features be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof as described in the appended claims.

Claims (36)

Claims

1. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement comprising an elongate tubular sleeve formed with a handle receiving channel defined by the tubular sleeve’s internal profile, the tubular sleeve’s internal profile having an interference means extending along all or a substantial part of the elongate sleeve for positively engaging a handle of a sporting implement insertable therein, wherein the grip comprises of an elongate tubular sleeve having an open end for receiving a handle and the internal perimeter surface of the tubular sleeve proximal to the open end of the tubular sleeve is chamfered.

2. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in claim 1, wherein the interference means is deformable.

3. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in claims 1 or 2, wherein the grip sleeve is deformable.

4. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sleeve’s inner profile has internal dimensions equal to or just less than that of the external dimensions of the sporting implement.

5. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cross-sectional internal profile of the sleeve is polygonal or circular.

6. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the grip is adapted to be removably mountable on the handle of a sporting implement.

7. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the grip is comprised of a moulded unit.

8. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the grip comprises of an elongate tubular sleeve having the open end for receiving a handle and a closed end in the form of an integrally formed grip end wall.

9. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the external perimeter surface of the tubular sleeve proximal to the open end of the tubular sleeve is chamfered.

10. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the external surface of the grip sleeve comprises wear gauge means.

11. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the grip’s tubular sleeve is radially flared on the outer profile proximal to and towards the closed end of the grip.

12. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the interference means comprises protrusion means which project into the handle receiving channel.

13. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed claim 12, wherein the protrusion means is integrally formed with the tubular sleeve.

14. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the protrusion means comprises axial protrusion means and/or radial protrusions means.

15. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the grip is formed from laminated elastomeric materials.

16. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in claim 15, wherein the grip internal wall and external wall are formed by at least two laminated elastomeric materials.

17. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in claim 16, wherein the internal wall of the grip is manufactured from a firm and durable elastomeric material and the external wall of the grip is manufactured from a softer elastomeric material.

18. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the grip comprises an inner elastomeric tube and an outer elastomeric tube.

19. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the grip comprises an inner tube and an outer covering.

20. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in claim 19, wherein the inner tube is manufactured from rubber and the outer covering is manufactured from polyurethane.

21. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in claim 19 or claim 20, wherein the outer covering extends a short distance beyond the inner tube with the extending portion of the outer covering carrying an adhesive covered with a removable tab.

22. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in claim 21, wherein the tab is peelable from the adhesive for coupling the adhesive coated extending portion of the outer covering to a handle of the sporting implement.

23. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer profile of the elongate tubular sleeve is octagonal.

24. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sleeve inner profile comprises of a polygonal cross-section with bevelled corners along all or a substantial part of the length of the tubular sleeve.

25. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in claim 24, wherein the bevelled corners comprise the protrusion means on the grip with a polygonal cross-section

26. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sleeve inner profile comprises of a generally octogonal cross-section with bevelled sides along all or a substantial part of the length of the sleeve.

27. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in claim 26, wherein the octogonal configuration of the inner sleeve profile is characterised in that the bevelled sides have a flat or curved surface.

28. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the grip is formed for operable engagement with an auxiliary securing means.

29. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in claim 28, wherein the auxiliary securing means is provided by a tapered front end cap.

30. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in claim 29, wherein the tapered front end cap comprises an elongated tubular sleeve tapering from a first expanded open end for receiving the open end of the grip to a second diverging open end for engaging the handle of the sporting implement.

31. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in claim 30, wherein the first expanded open end is formed for overlapping the chamfered portion of the open end of the grip.

32. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the interference means extends along 70% or more of the entire length of the inner profile of the elongate tubular sleeve.

33. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the interference means extends along 80% or more of the entire length of the inner profile of the elongate tubular sleeve.

34. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the interference means extends along 90% or more of the entire length of the inner profile of the elongate tubular sleeve.

35. A grip for a handle of a sporting implement as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the interference means extends along the entire length of the inner profile of the elongate tubular sleeve.

36. A sporting implement comprising a grip comprising an elongate tubular sleeve formed with a handle receiving channel defined by the tubular sleeve’s internal profile, the tubular sleeve’s internal profile having an interference means extending along all or a substantial part of the elongate sleeve for positively engaging a handle of the sporting implement insertable therein, wherein the grip comprises of an elongate tubular sleeve having an open end for receiving a handle and the internal perimeter surface of the tubular sleeve proximal to the open end of the tubular sleeve is chamfered