US20150105185A1 - Portable physical activity panels - Google Patents
Portable physical activity panels Download PDFInfo
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- US20150105185A1 US20150105185A1 US14/510,943 US201414510943A US2015105185A1 US 20150105185 A1 US20150105185 A1 US 20150105185A1 US 201414510943 A US201414510943 A US 201414510943A US 2015105185 A1 US2015105185 A1 US 2015105185A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- panel
- panels
- boundary
- post
- net
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63C—SKATES; SKIS; ROLLER SKATES; DESIGN OR LAYOUT OF COURTS, RINKS OR THE LIKE
- A63C19/00—Design or layout of playing courts, rinks, bowling greens or areas for water-skiing; Covers therefor
- A63C19/06—Apparatus for setting-out or dividing courts
- A63C19/08—Mechanical means for marking-out
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63C—SKATES; SKIS; ROLLER SKATES; DESIGN OR LAYOUT OF COURTS, RINKS OR THE LIKE
- A63C19/00—Design or layout of playing courts, rinks, bowling greens or areas for water-skiing; Covers therefor
- A63C19/06—Apparatus for setting-out or dividing courts
- A63C19/08—Mechanical means for marking-out
- A63C2019/085—Fences; Nets; Barriers
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
- Y10T29/49947—Assembling or joining by applying separate fastener
- Y10T29/49959—Nonresilient fastener
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Abstract
Features for assembling a physical boundary are disclosed. The boundary may be used in a variety of physical activities, including a pit for Ga-Ga ball. The boundary is made up of panels that can be stowed for transportation and then deployed to form the boundary. The panels are coupled together and secured to the ground using posts. The posts can secure directly to the ground or to supports. The panels may include a variety of features, including windows, ports, pockets, stiffeners, tensioners, and entry ways. An access such as a zipper in the panels may be opened and closed to provide an entry way. The panels and posts can be stored in a portable kit and deployed in a place of interest, such as a park. The assembly can then be broken down, stored as a portable kit, and transported. Associated methods of assembling and use are also disclosed.
Description
- Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57.
- This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/890,099, filed Oct. 11, 2013, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- 1. Technical Field
- The present technology relates to boundaries, specifically, portable boundaries and barriers, in which sports and games can be played. Related systems and methods of assembly are also disclosed.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- In the U.S., many schools are reducing recess and gym activities, and the overall population is growing increasingly sedentary and overweight. Now, more than ever before, it is important to reduce barriers to physical activity. There is a need for games that can be played quickly, easily, and nearly anywhere, which get people of all ages and abilities moving.
- Many games require a demarcation of some kind to identify the boundaries of the playing field, court, pit, or course. In designated sports facilities, the demarcations often include lines, walls, and/or fences. It can be challenging to play many games outside of designated sports facilities, such as in a yard or open field, due to difficulties that exist in trying to define the physical boundaries of the games.
- For example, in Ga-ga, a sport of increasing popularity, a wall is needed to define the boundary of the Ga-ga pit, and ideally, to also allow ricochet of the ball during play. Ga-ga has few rules and is easy to learn; it can be played by children and adults of nearly all ages and athletic abilities, and it is a short, fast-paced game that can be played by many participants at once. For at least these reasons, it is becoming a favorite game at schools and summer camps. The game itself requires no more than a bounceable ball, such as a playground ball; however, the ability to play Ga-ga is limited by the need for the pit-defining wall.
- Current Ga-ga pits are generally permanent or semi-permanent in nature. In Ga-ga, the pit is typically octagonal or hexagonal in shape with each of the eight or six wall panels generally ranging from 2-5 feet in height and 6-9 feet in length. Installation of a pit of such dimensions is generally time- and cost-intensive. Even semi-permanent or “portable” Ga-ga pits on the market generally require assembly of a series of bulky 6-9 foot-long panels made of wood or a relatively rigid plastic or composite material. Summer camps looking for a more portable solution have been known to place a series of picnic tables on their sides to form the octagonal pit. Creating a pit in such a manner can be strenuous and is impractical in many settings. Further, portable Ga-ga pits on the market are not multipurpose and typically are made only for playing Ga-ga and serve no other significant fitness needs. There therefore exists a need for a user-friendly, portable fitness structure, which can be easily set up and taken down by a single person without the need for strenuous effort or large vehicles to transport. Further, there exists a need for such a structure that can serve multiple purposes, for instance as a Ga-ga pit but also as more general purpose exercise walls.
- The systems and methods described herein each have several aspects, no single one of which is solely responsible for its desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of this disclosure as expressed by the claims that follow, the more prominent features will now be discussed briefly. After considering this discussion, and particularly after reading the section entitled “Detailed Description,” one will understand how the sample features described herein provide for improved boundaries and barriers for Ga-ga, fitness obstacle courses, and other physical activities.
- Due to an increasing interest in Ga-ga, a need exists for a Ga-ga pit boundary that allows Ga-ga to be played recreationally by friends and families, for example, in backyards, parks, and other open spaces. A need exists for a Ga-ga pit boundary that is quick to assemble and truly portable. A need also exists for a Ga-ga pit boundary that is affordable for families and individual consumers. The systems, devices, and methods described herein may address one or more of the aforementioned needs. Embodiments described herein relate to portable boundaries in which sports and games, such as Ga-ga, can be played.
- One aspect of the disclosure is directed towards a system for defining the boundaries of a playing field. In some embodiments, the system comprises a plurality of deployable panels. Each panel may have a height of about 2-5 feet and a length of about 3-12 feet. Each panel is configured to collapse and deploy and has a top edge, a bottom edge, two side edges, and at least one sleeve coupled to each side edge. There are also a plurality of rigid support posts, with each post having a top portion and a bottom portion, and wherein each post extends at least the height of each side edge and is configured to mate with at least one sleeve and a plurality of foundations. Each foundation is configured to secure the bottom of each support post wherein the plurality of panels and the plurality of posts are moveable between multiple configurations, and wherein, in one configuration, the walls form a boundary defining a playing field.
- In other embodiments of the first aspect, each sleeve comprises a plurality of loops and/or forms a tube of material along the height of each side edge.
- In other embodiments of the first aspect, each panel is comprised of polyester, canvas, or other flexible polymer, fabric, or composite material.
- In other embodiments of the first aspect, each foundation comprises a spike, an auger, a threaded end, or a pointed tip affixed to a bottom portion of the post and configured to be pierced or screwed into the ground or into a support. The support may further comprise a mount defining a cavity configured to receive a bottom end of the post, and the mount configured to secure the bottom end of the support post in place via friction fit, snap fit, or threading.
- In other embodiments of the first aspect, the system may be in a configuration such that the panels form an enclosed hexagon, or the system may comprise eight panels and eight posts and the panels may form an enclosed octagon. In octagonal or other embodiments, one panel may be an access panel comprised of a long section and a short section, such that, in one configuration, the panels form an octagon comprising an access area along the access panel for entering and exiting the boundary.
- In other embodiments of the first aspect, the system may have at least a portion of at least one panel that is transparent, and/or at least one panel including a port or moveable flap portion. Some embodiments may further comprise at least one anchor coupled to a bottom portion of at least one panel, and the anchor may comprise a pointed tip configured for securement into the ground.
- In other embodiments of the first aspect, some embodiments may have at least one panel that comprises a pocket, and the system may further comprise an insert removably disposed within the pocket.
- In other embodiments of the first aspect, some embodiments may further comprise a flexible flooring sheet positioned between, and substantially enclosed by, the plurality of panels.
- In other embodiments of the first aspect, some embodiments may have at least one panel comprising a zipper.
- In other embodiments of this first aspect, the system may comprise a net. The system may further comprise a plurality of net segments, wherein each net segment is configured to collapse and deploy, and wherein each net segment has a net top edge, a net bottom edge, and two net side edges, and a plurality of rigid net support posts or extensions, wherein each extension has a top post portion and a bottom post portion, and wherein each extension extends at least the height of each net side edge and is configured to mate with at least two net side edges. In some embodiments, the bottom portion of the extension is configured to mate with the top portion of the rigid support posts. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a cross brace configured to couple with the support posts or with the extensions, and the cross brace may be configured to clamp to the net and comprises a length that is adjustable.
- A second aspect of the disclosure is directed towards a portable kit for defining the boundaries of a playing field. In some embodiments, the kit comprises a system for defining the boundaries of a playing field, wherein the deployable panels are configured to be rolled into a compact state, and a carrying case sized to enclose and carry the system.
- In some embodiments of the second aspect, the carrying case is a shoulder bag, the kit is further comprising a post-driving insertion tool, the kit is further comprising a wall angle placement guide, the kit is further comprising a plurality of support bases, and/or the kit is further comprising a removable, flexible flooring sheet.
- A third aspect of the disclosure is directed towards a method of assembling a system for defining the boundaries of a playing field. In some embodiments, the method comprises removing a playing field boundary from a carrying case, the playing field boundary comprising a plurality of panels and a plurality of support posts, unrolling or otherwise deploying the plurality of panels, inserting a first support post through a first sleeve coupled to a first side edge of a first panel, securing a bottom end of the first support post into the ground or into a first support base, extending the first panel, inserting a second support post through a second sleeve coupled to a second side edge of the first panel, securing a bottom end of the second support post into the ground or into a second support base, extending a second panel at an angle relative to the first panel, wherein the second panel is coupled to the second support post, and extending the remaining panels, inserting the remaining posts, and securing them in like manner to form the boundaries of the playing field.
- In other embodiments of the third aspect, the method further comprises driving support anchors connected to one or more of the panels.
- In other embodiments of the third aspect, the method further comprises inserting one or more support beams into one or more pockets of one or more of the panels.
- In other embodiments of the third aspect, the method further comprises attaching net segments above each of the panels by inserting a post attached to two net segment side edges into a top portion of a respective support post.
- In other embodiments of the third aspect, the method further comprises attaching a clamp of a cross brace to the posts and adjusting the cross brace to further extend and tighten the panels.
- In another aspect, a system for defining a boundary is disclosed. The system comprises a plurality of deployable panels, a plurality of posts, and a plurality of foundations. Each panel is configured to collapse and deploy, each post is configured to couple with at least one edge of at least one panel, each foundation is configured to couple a bottom portion of each post with the ground. The plurality of panels and the plurality of posts are moveable between multiple configurations, and, in at least one configuration, the panels define the boundary.
- These are just some of the potential features of the boundary and related systems and methods. The foregoing is a summary and thus contains, by necessity, simplifications, generalizations, and omissions of detail; consequently, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Any particular boundary, system, or method may have some or all of these features or additional or alternative features. Other aspects, features, and advantages described herein will become apparent in the teachings that follow.
- The above-mentioned aspects, as well as other features, aspects, and advantages of the present technology will now be described in connection with various embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings. The illustrated embodiments, however, are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting.
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FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of a boundary for physical activities. -
FIG. 2A is a schematic top view of the boundary ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 2B is a schematic top view of one embodiment of a boundary for physical activities having an opening near a vertex of the boundary. -
FIG. 2C is a schematic top view of another embodiment of a boundary for physical activities having an opening away from a vertex of the boundary. -
FIG. 2D is a schematic top view of an additional embodiment of a boundary for physical activities with a floor cover. -
FIG. 3A is a schematic top view of one embodiment of a boundary for physical activities. In the depicted embodiment, the fitness/playing area is hexagonal. -
FIG. 3B is a schematic top view of another embodiment of a boundary for physical activities. In the depicted embodiment, the fitness/playing area is pentagonal. -
FIG. 3C is a schematic top view of an additional embodiment of a boundary for physical activities. In the depicted embodiment, the fitness/playing area is rectangular. -
FIG. 4A is a schematic view of a wall panel in one embodiment of a boundary for physical activities. -
FIG. 4B is a schematic view of a wall panel in another embodiment of a boundary for physical activities. -
FIG. 4C is a schematic view of a wall panel with tensioning systems in another embodiment of a boundary for physical activities. -
FIG. 5A is a schematic top view of one embodiment of a support post. -
FIG. 5B is a schematic cross-section of one embodiment of a support post, wherein the cross-section is viewed along the cut line shown inFIG. 5A . -
FIG. 6A is a schematic side view of one embodiment of a support post insertion tool. -
FIG. 6B is a schematic top view of one embodiment of a support post insertion tool. -
FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of a support base. -
FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of a boundary for physical activities, wherein the boundary includes a top net. -
FIG. 9A is a schematic representation of one embodiment of mechanisms used to secure a top net to a support post of the boundary embodiment. -
FIG. 9B is a schematic representation of one embodiment of mechanisms used to secure a top net to a support post of the boundary embodiment. -
FIG. 9C is a schematic representation of one embodiment of mechanisms used to tension the top net to the support post of the boundary embodiment. -
FIG. 10 is a schematic top view of one embodiment of a boundary for physical activities, wherein the walls have been moved into an alternate configuration for use as a fitness obstacle course. -
FIGS. 11A-11B are various views of a boundary opening. -
FIG. 12 is a side view of an embodiment of a boundary with triangular end panels. -
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of a method for assembling a boundary. - In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the present disclosure. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented here. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the FIGS., can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and form part of this disclosure. For example, a system or boundary may be implemented or a method may be practiced using any number of the aspects set forth herein. In addition, such a system or boundary may be implemented or such a method may be practiced using other structure, functionality, or structure and functionality in addition to, or other than, one or more of the aspects set forth herein.
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FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of portablephysical activity panels 110 set up to form aboundary 100. In this embodiment, theboundary 100 is defined by a collection of one ormore panels 110. Theboundary 100 may in addition or alternatively be comprised of other wall elements or side surfaces. Thepanels 110 may partially or fully bound aspace 140. As shown, the four-sided panels 110 are arranged to substantially or fully enclose thespace 140 on the inside of theboundary 100. Eightpanels 110 are shown such that theboundary 100 substantially forms an octagon. Thepanels 110 may be of substantially equivalent length. However, many configurations and sizes are possible. Further, thepanels 100 need not all be exactly the same length, and theboundary 100 may still be formed. Theinterior space 140 of the boundary is empty and does not contain anypanels 110. Asurface 142 on which the panels are set up is merely enclosed by the panels. Thesurface 142 may be grass, dirt, mulch, or some other natural material. Thesurface 142 could also be some firmer, man-made material, such as concrete, asphalt, wood, or rubber. Many other possibilities exist for the surface on which the panels are set up, including a combination ofmultiple surfaces 142. The surface (or surfaces) 142 needs to provide enough area for thepanels 110 to be set up. Further, thesurface 142 may also be covered, as is further discussed below. - The boundary in
FIG. 1 may be used for physical activities. For instance, the boundary may serve as a Ga-ga pit or Ga-ga boundary for a game of Ga-ga. The inside of the eightpanels 110 inFIG. 1 provide side surfaces against which a Ga-ga ball may be bounced. Thepanels 110 also provide a perimeter inside which the players of Ga-ga must remain. Further, if spectators are watching the game, thepanels 110 will provide a perimeter to protect them from being struck by the ball or by the players. - The
boundary 100 is shown inFIG. 1 after thepanels 110 have been deployed and theboundary 100 assembled to the configuration shown. Thepanels 110 are joined to one another by means of apost 130 that couples with sleeves (not shown inFIG. 1 , seeFIGS. 4A-4C ) on the left andright sides panel 110. Thesepost 130 and sleeve couplings are located at the vertices of the octagon inFIG. 1 , or the locations where onepanel 110 meets another. Further, the bottom of eachpost 130 is secured to theground 10 using a foundation (not shown inFIG. 1 , seeFIGS. 4A-4C ). The foundation may take a variety of forms, as is discussed further below, depending on thesurface 142 on which theboundary 100 is set up. For disassembly, theposts 130 andindividual panels 110 may be separated and theposts 130 andpanels 110 collapsed. Eachpost 130 andpanel 110 is lightweight, making it easy to transport most or all of them in a single carrying case or bag. Thepanels 110 may collapse in numerous ways, for instance by rolling up. - To deploy the
panels 110, they would then simply be unrolled and then assembled with theposts 130 to form theboundary 100. Theposts 130 may also be collapsible and deployable, for instance in a telescoping structure, or theposts 130 may also be a single, unitary structure of a single length. Further details of these and other structures are provided below. - As further shown in
FIG. 1 , thepanels 110 may have an upper edge 114 and/or alower edge 116. The upper edge 114 may be a section or segment of thepanel 110 along the top of thepanel 110. The upper edge 114 may in addition or alternatively be a separate feature coupled with thepanel 110, such as a thickened section of thepanel 110, an elongated seam along the edge, a reinforcement for thepanel 110, etc. Thelower edge 116 may be similar to the upper edge 114 except it may be located along the bottom of thepanel 110. Thelower edge 116 may therefore be located opposite the upper edge 114. In between the upper andlower edges 114, 116 may be apanel center 112. Thecenter 112 may be the center or middle portion of thepanel 110. Thecenter 112 may also include other features coupled with thepanel 110, such as extra fabric or signs, such as advertising. - A top view of an embodiment of a
boundary 200 is shown inFIG. 2A . As shown, in the depicted top view, theboundary 200 is fully enclosed on all sides by eight panels. Three consecutive panels are labelled aspanels panels panels panels -
FIGS. 2B and 2C depict top views of theboundary 200 with a removable or offsetaccess panel 216, to allow for ingress and egress into thespace 240 defined by theboundary 200. As shown inFIG. 2B , theaccess panel 216 may be a part of one of thepanels 210, such that theaccess panel 216 is shorter than theother panels 210. Theaccess panel 216 is shown at the end of the shorterstationary portion 214 of thepanel 210, where one side of theaccess panel 216 forms a vertex of theboundary 200 and the other side couples with thestationary portion 214. Theaccess panel 216 may also be positioned with adifferent panel 210 and/or in a different location along thepanel 210. For instance,FIG. 2C depicts theaccess panel 216 substantially near the center of thepanel 210 of theboundary 200. In such an embodiment, theaccess panel 216 couples with two shorterstationary portions 214 of thepanel 210 on either side of theaccess panel 216. - Players or other users of the
boundary 200 may enter and exit theboundary 200 in a variety of ways. In embodiments such as those shown inFIG. 2A , players or users of theboundary 200 may simply step or climb over the walls to enter and leave thespace 240 or, as described in more detail below, they may climb through one or more openings, such as port holes, located within the panels. For embodiments such as those shown inFIGS. 2B and 2C , the players or users may enter through anopening 241 defined by theaccess panel 216. Theaccess panel 216 is shown on an eight-sided boundary 200, but it may be included in any embodiment, for instance a six-sided boundary 200, and theaccess panel 216 may be near a vertex, centered on apanel 210, or in any other location along anypanel 210. Theaccess panel 216 could likewise be between twopanels 210 such that another side is introduced to the structure. For example, twopanels 210 of theboundary 200 could be made shorter and theaccess panel 216 could join the two shortenedpanels 210, thereby introducing a new side to the structure. Further,multiple access panels 216 could be included in asingle boundary 200 and/or on asingle panel 210, for example oneaccess panel 216 could be an entrance and theother access panel 216 an exit. - An embodiment of the
boundary 200 with afloor cover 242 is shown inFIG. 2D . With the portable design of various embodiments, theboundary 200 can be assembled for play in a variety of environments and on a variety of playingsurfaces 142, such as, for example, dirt, grass, sand, pea gravel, or asphalt. In some embodiments, a flexible,removable floor cover 242 is provided. Such afloor cover 242 may be laid down within theboundary 200 to provide a relatively smooth and hard surface for use when playing on a soft and uneven surface, such as sand or pea gravel. Thecover 242 may be a plastic fabric or other such suitable material that can be enclosed by thepanels 210. Thecover 242 need not have the exact same shape of the assembledpanels 210. Preferably thecover 242 allows for coverage of all of the interior floor space of aboundary 200, but it may provide coverage that is less than or more than the enclosed or bounded area. Further, thecover 242 may attach to theboundary 200, such as to thepanels 210. In such embodiments, thecover 242 may attach to some or all of thepanels 210, and/or to some or all of theposts 130. Thecover 242 may also merely be laid down inside theboundary 200 and not be attached to any structure. - Some embodiments have eight walls, which form an enclosed boundary having the shape of an octagon, as shown, for example, in
FIGS. 1-2D . However, in other embodiments, the boundary may have any number of walls. In some embodiments, the boundary has between four and eight walls. For example, as shown inFIG. 3A , in some embodiments, theboundary 300 includes six walls formed by sixpanels 310 such that a substantiallyhexagonal boundary 300 may be formed. In other embodiments, the system has fivepanels 310 forming a substantiallypentagonal boundary 300 as depicted inFIG. 3B , or it may have fourpanels 310 forming a substantiallyrectangular boundary 300 as depicted inFIG. 3C . Any features described for any of these or other embodiments may also be part of any other embodiments. For instance, the embodiments inFIGS. 3A-3C may also have access panels and ground covers. It is further understood that theboundary 300 could have more than eight sides or fewer than four, for example it may have three, seven, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, twenty, thirty, fifty, one hundred, or other numbers of sides. -
FIG. 4A illustrates a close up side view of apanel 410 of aboundary 400. Acentral panel 410 is depicted parallel to the viewing plane, withpanels 410 on either side at angles to the viewing plane. A net 460 is shown attached to the top of thepanels 410. Thecentral panel 410 hasposts 430 on either side that couple thepanel 410 to the other flankingpanels 410, andfoundations 434 at the bottom of theposts 430. At the center of thecentral panel 410 is anaccess 440, which may be a zipper, button or other access feature, that allows thepanel 410 to be opened and/or closed. At the bottom portion of thepanel 410 is anbottom tensioning system 450, such as an auger system, that tensions thepanel 410 and further secures it to theground 10. - The
panel 410 is depicted inFIG. 4A with anaccess 440 as a zipper down the center, but thepanel 410 may also be a unitary structure without anyaccess 440. In either case, the overall dimensions of theindividual panel 410 are typically 2-5 feet high and 3-12 feet long. Thepanel 410 has anupper edge 414, alower edge 416, aleft edge 418 and aright edge 420. Theupper edge 414 is shown inFIG. 4A attached to a net 460. The twoside edges other panels 410 byposts 430. Thelower edge 416 is shown withtensioning system 450 attached thereto. The twoside edges panel 410 containsleeves 432, discussed further below, that allow theposts 430 to couple to thepanel 410 and allow thepanels 410 to couple to each other. - The
posts 430 are generally as long as the side edges 418, 420 of thepanels 410 are high, with extra length at the bottom for thefoundations 434 and possible extra length at the top. In some embodiments, theposts 430 are a single, unitary structure with a fixed length. In other embodiments, theposts 430 are adjustable structures of varying height, for instance telescoping structures that shorten for transport and lengthen for installation and assembly. Theposts 430 in some embodiments are made of separate shorter post segments that detach from each other for transport and reattach for installation and assembly, for instance by screwing or snapping together. - The
panel 410 depicted inFIG. 4A is made up of a lightweight, collapsible material, such as polyester, canvas, or other flexible polymer, fabric, or composite. Thepanel 410 may be any material that allows for collapsing and deploying of thepanels 410 for easy transport and setup. Thepanels 410 may therefore be fully opaque or fully transparent, or anywhere in between. While fullyopaque panels 410 would provide for the most privacy for those inside theboundary 400, the fullytransparent panels 410 would provide spectators a better view of the activities inside theboundary 400. Forshorter panels 410, where the view is not very obstructed, the transparency of thepanel 410 may not be critical. But fortaller panels 410, transparency is more important. This is especially so in the context of schools where teachers and staff need to keep an eye on the children as they play inside theboundary 400. -
FIG. 4B depicts an embodiment of apanel 410 with various modifications for viewing and/or access. The left side of thecentral panel 410 depicted contains awindow 441, which may be transparent. Thewindow 441 is an oval shape, but may be any shape, and may allow for full viewing into and out of theboundary 400. Thewindow 441 could provide a spectator a means to watch the activity inside theboundary 400. Thewindow 441 may be of any material that is suitable for thepanel 410 itself, and it may be the same or a different material as thepanel 410 itself, such as plexiglass or some other hard plastic. - Another modification to the
central panel 410 is theport 411 shown inFIG. 4B on the right side of thecentral panel 410. Theport 411 is shown with an optionalremovable segment 442. It may have an oval shape, but it could be any shape, including square, triangular, etc. Theport 411 may likewise be transparent and allow for viewing into and out of theboundary 400, but theport 411 may include aremovable segment 442, such as a flap, that may open and close. Theport 411 thus additionally provides access into or out of theboundary 400 through anopening 443 defined by aninner edge 412 of thepanel 410. - The
port 411 may also be of any shape and may be positioned anywhere on thepanel 410. It is shown as an oval near the middle of the height of thepanel 410, but it could also be near the bottom of thepanel 410 or could have a square shape. Theport 411 may open and close by any means suitable for the material of the panel. For example, theport 411 may use a zipper or Velcro to open and close. Further, any material that is suitable for thepanel 410 may also be used for theport 411. Theport 411 may be the same or a different material as thepanel 410, for example theport 411 may be canvas, or a hard plastic, such as plexiglass. - Besides the
window 441 andport 411 shown inFIG. 4B , other modifications to thepanels 410 are possible. For instance, thewindow 441 may also serve as a pocket on the interior, exterior, or both sides, of thepanel 410. The pocket may be used to hold items used for the physical activity or any other items, including personal effects of those participating in the activity. Thepanels 410 may also include subpanels that make up theentire panel 410, or they may include a combination of subpanels and/orwindows 441 and/orports 411. Other features in thepanels 410 in addition to those described may be included. - The
windows 441,ports 411, or other features of thepanel 410 may, in addition to providing viewing or access, provide a means to tension thepanels 410 and keep them taut. For instance, theaccess 440, such as a zipper, shown in the center of thepanel 410 inFIG. 4B may be used to tighten thepanel 410 by having different settings on it to take in more orless panel 410 material when it tightens. Further, thesleeves 432 on the left and right side edges 418, 420 of thepanels 410 that couple with theposts 430 may provide a mechanism by which thepanel 410 may be tightened or kept taut. Thesleeves 432 may be adjustable such thatloose panels 410 may have their slack taken up by adjustment of thesleeves 432. - The
tightening system 450 may likewise be located at or near thelower edge 416 of thepanel 410 that connects thepanel 410 to theground 10 as shown inFIGS. 4A-4B . Thetensioning system 450 may include apocket 451, one ormore attachments 452, one ormore cords 453, and one ormore spikes 454. Thecords 453 may be tightening ropes and theattachments 452 may be reinforced sections on thepanel 410. Thecords 453 are connected to thespikes 454 that secure into theground 10. Securing thespikes 454 into theground 10 creates tension in thepanels 410 that helps keep them taut. Thecord 453 may be a simple fabric rope or it may be steel wire or composite. Further, thecord 453 may run through allattachments 452, as is shown on the left side of thepanel 410 inFIGS. 4A-4B . This side of thepanel 410 has twospikes 454 that attach the cord 453to theground 10. On the right side of thepanel 410 inFIGS. 4A-4B , another implementation of thetightening system 450 is shown. The right side contains twovertical cords 453 withspikes 454, that emanate from twoattachments 452. - Many variations of the
tightening system 450 are possible, with thecord 453,attachments 452, and spikes 454 allowing for many combinations of such asystem 450. Further, thespikes 454 may be pointed tip objects to facilitate a driving penetration and securement with theground 10, or they may take a variety of other shapes and forms. For instance, thespikes 454 may be threaded for rotational penetration of the ground or hook shaped in order to flare out from the panels and provide stability in a direction that is out of the plane of thepanel 410. Other features related to panel tensioning, stiffening, and securing are discussed below. -
FIG. 4C depicts an embodiment of aboundary 400 showing another means of creating tension in thepanels 410. Atensioning system 450 is depicted near thelower edge 416 of thepanel 410 that includespockets 451 withinserts 455. Thissystem 450 consists of the inserts, which may be rods, slipped into thepockets 451 provided in or on thepanel 410. Thepockets 451 are shown horizontally oriented, but they may also be vertical or diagonal, or a combination of any of these. Thepockets 451 may also be positioned near theupper edge 414 of thepanel 410. Thepockets 451 may be sized to fit just oneinsert 455 ormultiple inserts 455. They may also be combined with other features of thepanel 410, such as thewindows 441 orports 411, or the other pockets for holding items. Theinserts 455 that are inserted into the stiffening system pockets 451 are rigid or stiff such that they provide a rigidity or stiffness to thepanel 410. This rigidity or stiffness may be crucial with some of the physical activities that may be played inside theboundary 400, for instance Ga-ga. Ga-ga requires the ability to bounce a ball off the walls, i.e. thepanels 410. Many times the ball is bounced off the bottom portion of the walls, so having a stiffening system near the bottom portion of thepanels 410 becomes important, especially with balls bounced off thepanels 410 with a lot of force or speed. Theinserts 455 may therefore be metal rods, such as aluminum, or composite rods, such as carbon fiber. Theinserts 455 may be unitary structures or assembled from separate pieces, for instanceshorter inserts 455 that are screwed together. There may also be a combination ofinserts 455 in different orientations that attach to each other once installed in thepanels 410, for instance to form a triangle or rectangle on thepanel 410. - The
tensioning system 450 depicted inFIG. 4C further includes a mini ground auger vertical tensioning system located near the bottom portion of the panel. It consists of twoattachments 452 that connect thecords 453 to thepanels 410 which secure theattachments 452 directly to the ground. Thecords 453 are secured by means ofspikes 454 or other attachment means, such as rotating threads. The panel inFIG. 4C depicts asingle cord 453 and spike 454 on either side of thepanel 410, but more orfewer cords 453 and/orspikes 454 may be implemented. For instance,multiple attachments 452 may be provided on thepanel 410, and only a few or none may be used in for example calm environmental conditions. But for windy or other disrupting conditions, more or all of theattachments 452 that are provided may be used. Thesystem 450, such as a mini ground auger system, may be included on all of thepanels 410 or only some, for instance anaccess panel 216 may not include them so as to facilitate access. -
FIG. 4C further depicts fabric corner postsleeves 432. Thesleeves 432 are tubular structures inside which theposts 430 are received. Thesleeves 432 are shown inFIG. 4A running the entire length of eachside edge sleeves 432 may also run only a portion of the respective side edges 418, 420, or thesleeve 432 may be made up ofmultiple sleeves 432 that each has a length that is shorter than theside edge sleeve 432 may also be made up of a series of loops. The loops on one panel side edge may be offset from the loops on an adjoining panel side edge such that loops do not interfere with each other when coupled together by apost 430. Thesleeves 432 may also be reinforced with fabric or metal or other materials for durability and strength. As mentioned, thesleeves 432 may also serve as a tightening mechanism for thepanels 410, for instance by being adjustable. For example, the sleeves may comprise loops that use Velcro to attach to apost 430. The loops may be of various lengths to allow for looser or tighter attachment to theposts 430, and therefore a looser or tighter fit for thepanels 410. - The
access 440 inFIG. 4C , such as a zipper, also provides a means of tensioning thepanel 410 as well as a means for access into theboundary 400. Theaccess 440 is shown extending along the entire height of thepanel 410 from top to bottom. However, theaccess 440 may also extend for only a portion of the height of thepanel 410. It may begin at theupper edge 414 of thepanel 410 and end in the middle, or begin at thelower edge 416 and end in the middle. Theaccess 440 such as a zipper may also run in the reverse direction. Theaccess 440 may further begin and end on the interior of thepanel 410, such that it does not contact an edge. Theaccess 440 is shown as a linear implementation oriented vertically, but other orientations and implementations may be provided. For instance, theaccess 440 may be a zipper or other feature and may be horizontal or it may also be curved. For instance, theaccess 440 may fully enclose an access panel, such asaccess panel 216, provided in thepanel 410, such that aU-shaped access 440 that begins and ends on the same edge of thepanel 410 allows for removal of the access panel that it surrounds. Theaccess 440 may also be provided on thewindows 441 orports 411 or other throughways previously discussed. - A
brace 466 is also shown inFIG. 4C . Thebrace 466, such as a cross brace, provides stability for theboundary 400 and extends along theupper edges 414 of thepanels 410. Thebrace 466 is further discussed in more detail below. -
FIGS. 5A and 5B depict vertical support posts 500 that form the backbone of the boundary. A top view of thepost 500 is shown inFIG. 5A . Thepost 500 has a circular cross sectional shape and anengagement 520 near the top. Theengagement 520 may be a socket for receiving a post-driving tool. Thus, theengagement 520 may also function as a driving feature. Theengagement 520 is depicted as a square socket, but theengagement 520 may be a number of engagement features and of any suitable shape, such as a star, hexagon, or polygon with rounded corners. A cross-section view of thepost 500 inFIG. 5A is shown inFIG. 5B as taken along the line 5B-5B as shown inFIG. 5A . Thepost 500 is depicted with afoundation 530 having a pointed tip near the bottom of thepost 500. In this embodiment, theposts 500 are driven or screwed into the ground. They may also have an auger orthreads 532 for rotating thepost 500 into the ground. Theengagement 520 is seen as a recess into the top portion of thepost 500. As mentioned, theposts 500 provide a means for coupling the panels to each other and are depicted at the intersections of the panels in various figures, for example inFIGS. 4A-4C . They may also serve as tensioning means for thepanels 410 and attachments for various features of the system, such as a post-driving tool or net. -
FIGS. 6A and 6B depict an embodiment of apost-driving tool 600. A side view of thetool 600 is shown inFIG. 6A and a top view is shown inFIG. 6B . Thetool 600 is used to drive the posts, such as thepost 500, into the ground. It attaches to the top of thepost 500 and is complementary in shape to theengagement 520 of thepost 500. Thetool 600 has anengagement 620 that aligns or mates with thepost 500. In some embodiments, theengagement 620 of thetool 600 is a square extrusion that engages with a complementary-shapedsocket engagement 520 of thepost 500. Acircular base 630 may also be included as shown inFIG. 6B . Once thetool 600 is mated with the post, thetool 600 may provide a surface to drive the post into the ground. Thetool 600 may also provide a means for rotating the post by providing a lever arm. The twoarms 610 of thetool 600 that extend out from theengagement 620 are grasped and rotated to rotate the post and secure it to the ground. Theengagement 620 may be of various shapes depending on the shape of theengagement 520 at the top of thepost 500. - While the system may be secured to the ground by direct penetration of the
posts 500 into the ground, this is not always possible. When playing on hard surfaces, such as asphalt, a gym floor, concrete, or hard-packed dirt or clay, it is often not possible to drive the bottom point of thepost 500 into the ground. Accordingly, in some embodiments, asupport 750 that includes abase 755 and amount 760 is provided as depicted inFIG. 7 to support apost 700. Thesupport 750 includes the base 755 that has a large enough footprint to allow for stability of thepost 700 once attached to thesupport 750.FIG. 7 depicts a side view of thesupport 750, which has acircular mount 760 for receiving and mating to thepost 700, and a larger,flanged base 755 attached to the bottom of themount 760. Themount 760 may define acavity 765 and may contain mating features to which thepost 700 mates. In some embodiments, thepost 600 includes afoundation 730 withthreads 732 that mate with complementary threads inside themount 760. These or other mating features may be located inside thecavity 765. - The
flanged base 755 is depicted with ribs that enhance stability of thesupport 750. The ribs are seen on either side of themount 760 inFIG. 7 . Theflanged base 755 may be circular, square, or any other suitable shape. Thebase 755 provides stability for themount 760 and therefore for theposts 700 when attached to them. The underside of the base 755 that contacts the ground is flat, however, the surface of this underside may be grooved or ridged to provide even more stability. A grooved or ridged underside to the base 755 will provide more friction between the base 755 and ground and make it more difficult to slide on the ground. It may also dig in slightly or grab the surface on which it rests. Other means of providing a rough surface to the underside of thebase 755 for increased friction or grabbing are possible, for instance etching or dotted patterns of recesses or extrusions may be implemented. - Some physical activities may require the need for a taller structure than is offered by the panels alone. In such a case, a net 860 may be implemented along the top of the
panels 810, as depicted inFIG. 8 . In various embodiments, the net 860 is added for additional height, which may for example help catch balls that fly out. The net 860 and associated features of the netting system may also serve additional sporting purposes in other sporting contexts, for example in volleyball or badminton to provide the net and/or adjustable netting features disclosed herein. InFIG. 8 , the net 860 is shown attached to the top of thepanels 810. It extends all around theboundary 800. The net 860 however need not extend all the way around but may be selectively installed or implemented. For instance, if only one side of theboundary 800 is of concern with respect to balls flying out, then that side alone may have the net 860. The net 860 may further be implemented with many embodiments of theboundary 800. For instance, as shown, theboundary 800 may have the net 860 along with awindow 841 and anaccess 840, such as a zipper. - The net 860 may also provide additional support. It may advantageously allow additional support to be added without significantly impairing the view of spectators, due to the mesh pattern or holes of the net 860. Such support may be provided by a net 860 having an adjustable cross brace, discussed in more detail below. The net 860 may include many
net segments 861 corresponding to portions of the net 860 that are over a single panel. For instance, theboundary 800 inFIG. 8 has eightpanels 810 as well as eightnet segments 861, with eachsegment 861 located above acorresponding panel 810. The net 860 is shown withextensions 862, which may be support posts, that separate thenet segments 861 that make up theentire net 860. Thenet segments 861 are joined together by theextensions 862. Theseextensions 862 are shown above eachpost 830 that connects thepanels 810. For instance, theextensions 862 may continue a linear line, such as an axis, of theposts 830 at the vertices of theboundary 800. Theextensions 862 may thus extend the structural feature of thecorresponding post 830 above which theextension 862 is located. - The
net segments 862 may be collapsible and deployable. Thesegments 862 may be rolled or otherwise bunched up to collapse and take up a smaller volume, and then unrolled or otherwise unfurled to take their full, deployed shape. Thenet segments 862 may be removed from thepanels 810 when theboundary 800 is disassembled and transported, or they may remain on thepanels 810 for quicker assembly the next time theboundary 800 is assembled. Further detail of the net 860 and associated features are discussed below. -
FIGS. 9A-9C describe various features for attaching or otherwise coupling an embodiment of anetting system 960 to aboundary 900. Thenetting system 960 may include anet segment 964 coupled with theposts 500 of theboundary 900 and thenetting system 960 may provide tension through abrace 966.FIG. 9A depicts a joint 901 in theboundary 900 structure. At the joint 902, thepost 500 is shown extending up from the bottom of the figure and coupling with anextension 962 for thenet segment 964. Theextension 962 is shown attached to the top of thepost 500 by fitting into thesame engagement 520 that thepost-insertion tool 600 fits into. Theextension 962 has a complementary shape that allows it to fit inside theengagement 520. In some embodiments, theextension 962 has a support plate positioned above theengagement 520 when coupled with thepost 500 that covers the top of thepost 500 and further adds stability. - The
extension 962 has thenet segment 964 attached to it and is shown attached to the left side of theextension 962 inFIG. 9A . While theextension 962 and thenet segment 964 may be a unitary structure, they may also be comprised of separate pieces, whereby theextension 962 is separate from thenet segment 964. There may also be a combination of unitary structures composed of thenet segment 964 and theextension 962 and then also separate net 964 andextension 962 structures, such that one end of thenet segment 964 has anextension 962 attached to it and the other end of thenet segment 964 does not. Theextension 962 would then be installed and the free end of thenet segment 964 would then attach to anextension 962 on anothernet segment 964, installed adjacent to the currentnet segment 964. In this manner, a larger net made up of thenet segments 964 may be installed in a series around or otherwise along theboundary 900, consisting of thenet segments 964 with eachnet segment 964 having an end with theextension 962 and an end without theextension 962. - A
brace 966 is also shown as part of thenet segment 964 depicted inFIG. 9A . Thebrace 966 may be an adjustable cross-brace and is shown extending parallel to thenet segment 964 and perpendicular to thepost 500 andextension 962. Thebrace 966 provides additional horizontal tension and stability by tightening or loosening of thebrace 966. Thebrace 966 connects onepost 500 to anotherpost 500. It is adjusted by means of aclamp 968, such as an adjustable ratchet clamp as depicted at the intersection of thebrace 966 and thepost 500 inFIG. 9A . Theclamp 968 allows for adjustment of thebrace 966 toward either a tighter or looser configuration. Thebrace 966 is a rigid but lightweight material, such as a metal, plastic or composite, that can provide tension but also provide compressive resistance in order to provide lateral stability of theboundary 900. Theclamp 968 is shown located just above the top of thepost 500 and mated with thebrace 966. The clamp 968receives and grabs onto thebrace 966 and by adjustment can pullmore brace 966 in or letmore brace 966 out. In this manner, it provides for more or less tension in theboundary 900. Theclamp 968 is shown coupling with only onebrace 966 but it may provide for connection of anotherbrace 966 on the opposite side of theclamp 968 shown, such that twobraces 966 may be adjusted with a single clam 968 p. Anotherclamp 968 may also be used that installs over or around thisclamp 968, or at another location on thepost 500. Aclamp 968 and/or brace 966 may be useful in the gaga pit context as well as other contexts, for instance if thepanels 910 and/ornetting system 960 ornet segments 964 are used for volleyball, badminton, or other activities. - Another embodiment of the joint 901 formed by the
post 500, theextension 962 and thebrace 966 is shown inFIG. 9B . In this depiction, thenet segment 964 is arranged going the opposite direction as inFIG. 9A . Acorner post 500 is located near the bottom ofFIG. 9B , with acorner post engagement 520 socket that receives aninsert 963, such as a pipe bushing socket insert. Theinsert 963 allows for attachment of thecomplementary extension 962. Theinsert 963 may be a bushing and/or may be circular, square, or any other shape to mate with thepost 500. In the configuration ofFIG. 9B , theadjustable clamp 968 is on the left side of thepost 500 and thebrace 966 extends to the right side of thepost 500 as illustrated. However,FIG. 9B depicts a different embodiment of theclamp 968. Here, theclamp 968 is adjustable as well as the length of a ratchet 967 attached to theremovable brace 966. These or other configurations may be used, based on different needs with respect to, for example, space, weight, materials, etc. - Another embodiment of a
brace 966 is depicted inFIG. 9C . Thebrace 966 shown is a cross brace and has anadjustable tensioner 972, which may be a brace slide tensioner. Thetensioner 972 allows for adjusting the length and tension or compression in thebrace 966 or braces 966. In this implementation, thebrace 966 has a shorter brace segment attached to the post at the right ofFIG. 9C . This shorter segment attaches to thetensioner 972, which in turn attaches to the next segment of thebrace 966. Thetensioner 972 may be adjusted using, for example, thumb screws, to increase or decrease the tension on thebrace segments 966. Thenext segment 966 contains a claw frictionfit clamp 971 that uses a friction fit to mate with thebrace 966. - While the various embodiments can be positioned to form an enclosed boundary, the panels can also be moved and modified to form other shapes and structures. For example,
FIG. 10 depictspanels 1010 arranged to form anopen boundary 1000. Such aboundary 1000 is useful in many contexts, such as for an obstacle course, and/or for use in cross-fit activities or other activities. Thepanels 1010 are portable and flexible such that it is easy to form many different embodiments of such a course.FIG. 10 depicts twowalls 1102 each formed with fourpanels 1010. Thewalls 1102 can have a variety of shapes, including the zig-zag shape as shown. The overall size and layout of thepanels 1010 can be adjusted in various ways, as shown by the arrows. For instance, thepanels 1010 can be moved out or translated sideways to form a wider path in between the walls, as indicated by the arrows at the bottom of the figure. As indicated, thepanels 1010 can likewise be moved closer together to form a narrower path. Thepanels 1010 themselves can also be rotated with respect to one another such that the angles A, B formed by the walls are larger or smaller, as indicated by the directions of the arrows on thepanels 1010 themselves. Finally, thepanels 1010 can be rotated all together as indicated by the directions of the arrows near the center of the figure. Thepanels 1010 may be arranged in any geometric configuration conducive to an obstacle or exercise course. For example, thepanels 1010 may have uses beyond just the exercise context, such as temporary dividers in offices, or as indicators to guide foot traffic, or merely as items of entertainment for kids to build forts. Thepanels 1010 may also be joined in various other configurations or singularly isolated and used in many contexts, such as volleyball, badminton, and other activities. These are just some of the possibilities with the present disclosure, and many different variations and combinations of structures may be formed by the panels, as will be readily apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art. -
FIG. 11A is a side view of aboundary 1100 having anopening 1141.FIG. 11B is a top view of theboundary 1100. Theboundary 1100 has a centrally located opening 1141 formed byend panels 1111. Thepanels 1110 on either side of theopening 1141 are coupled with theend panels 1111 on respective ends of thepanels 1110. As shown, eachpanel 1110 has twoend panels 1111 coupled thereto. Afirst end panel 1111 extends toward theopening 1141 and asecond end panel 1111 extends outward perpendicularly from thepanel 1110 and thefirst end panel 1111. Thepanels 1110 includeposts 1130 on the ends. - The
panels 1110 are further shown withpockets 1115 located near theupper edge 1114. Thepockets 1115 haveinserts 1163, such as a batten. Further, acord 1164 extends along the length of theupper edge 1114 and acord 1153 extends along the lower edge of thepanels 1110. Thecord 1153 may be part of abottom tensioning system 1150. Similarly, the cord 1154 may be part of anupper tensioning system 1160. Theboundary 1100 may include a joint 1162 having across member 1161 coupling with theupper tensioner 1160, and theinsert 1163. -
FIG. 12 is a side view of an embodiment of aboundary 1200 withtriangular end panels 1111. Theboundary 1200 may further includeattachments 1152 along the top and bottom edges of thepanels 1110. In some embodiments, theattachments 1152 are grommets. -
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of amethod 1300 for assembling a boundary, such as theboundary 100. Themethod 1300 may begin withblock 1310 wherein a set of panels, such as thepanels 110, are removed from a case or are otherwise provided. The panels may be part of a boundary, such asboundary 100, and may form a variety of playing fields or obstacles, such as a Ga-Ga pit. - The
method 1300 may continue to block 1320 wherein a first panel is extended, such as unfurling or unrolling thepanel 110. Thepanel 110 may be laid out on the ground. - The
method 1300 may continue to block 1330 wherein a first post is inserted through a first sleeve of the first panel. This may include, for example, inserting thepost 430 into thesleeve 432 on theleft side 418 of thepanel 410. - The
method 1300 may continue to block 1340 wherein a second post is inserted through a second sleeve of the first panel. This may include, for example, inserting another of thepost 430 into thesleeve 432 on theright side 420 of thepanel 410. - The
method 1300 may continue to block 1350 wherein the first and second posts are secured to the ground or other support on the ground. This may include, for example, securing thefoundations 434 of theposts 430 into the ground. It may also include, for example, rotating thethreads 732 of thefoundation 730 on the lower part of thepost 700 into thecavity 765 of themount 760 on thesupport 750. - The
method 1300 may continue to block 1360 wherein a second panel is extended away from the second post. This may include, for example, extending anotherpanel 110 at an angle relative to the plane of thefirst panel 110, such that an angled corner or vertex of a boundary is formed. It may also include coupling the second panel with the second post. For instance, it may include extending thesleeve 432 on theleft side 418 of thesecond panel 410 over thepost 430. - The
method 1300 may continue to block 1370 wherein the remaining panels are assembled in a similar manner. For instance, the remainingpanels 110 may be coupled with the remainingposts boundary - The methods disclosed herein comprise one or more steps or actions for achieving the described method. The method steps and/or actions may be interchanged with one another without departing from the scope of the claims. In other words, unless a specific order of steps or actions is specified, the order and/or use of specific steps and/or actions may be modified without departing from the scope of the claims.
- With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.
- It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes both the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations).
- Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”
- While the above description has pointed out novel features as applied to various embodiments, the skilled person will understand that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the device or process illustrated may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The claims are not limited to the precise configuration and components illustrated above. Therefore, the scope of the invention is defined by the claims that follow rather than by the foregoing description. All variations coming within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are embraced within their scope.
Claims (20)
1. A system for defining the boundaries of a playing field, the system comprising:
a plurality of deployable panels, wherein each panel is configured to collapse and deploy, wherein each panel has a top edge, a bottom edge, two side edges, and at least one sleeve coupled to each side edge;
a plurality of rigid support posts, wherein each post has a top portion and a bottom portion, and wherein each post is configured to couple with at least one sleeve; and
a plurality of foundations, wherein each foundation is configured to secure the bottom of each support post.
wherein the plurality of panels and the plurality of posts are moveable between multiple configurations, and wherein, in at least one configuration, the walls form a boundary defining a playing field.
2. The system of claim 1 , wherein each sleeve comprises a plurality of loops.
3. The system of claim 1 , wherein each sleeve forms a tube of material along the height of each side edge.
4. The system of claim 1 , wherein each panel is comprised of polyester, canvas, or other flexible polymer, fabric, or composite material.
5. The system of claim 1 , wherein each foundation comprises a spike, an auger, a threaded end, or a pointed tip coupled with the bottom portion of the post and is configured to be pierced or screwed into the ground or into a support.
6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the support comprises a mount defining a cavity configured to receive the foundation, the mount configured to secure the foundation in place via friction fit, snap fit, or threading.
7. The system of claim 1 , wherein, in one configuration, the panels form an enclosed hexagon.
8. The system of claim 1 , wherein, in one configuration, the panels form an enclosed octagon.
9. The system of claim 8 , wherein one panel comprises an access panel, such that, in one configuration, the panels form an octagon comprising an access area along the access panel for entering and exiting the boundary.
10. The system of claim 1 , wherein either at least a portion of at least one panel is transparent or at least one panel includes a port.
11. The system of claim 1 , wherein at least one panel comprises a pocket, and the system further comprises an insert configured to be removably disposed within the pocket.
12. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a flexible flooring sheet positioned between, and substantially enclosed by, the plurality of panels.
13. The system of claim 1 , wherein at least one panel comprises a zipper.
14. The system of claim 1 , further comprising:
a plurality of net segments, wherein each net segment is configured to collapse and deploy, and wherein each net segment has a net top edge, a net bottom edge, and two net side edges; and
a plurality of rigid net extensions, wherein each extension has a top portion and a bottom portion, and wherein each extension extends at least the height of each net side edge and is configured to mate with at least two net side edges.
15. The system of claim 14 , wherein the bottom portion of the extension is configured to mate with the top portion of the rigid support posts.
16. The system of claim 14 , further comprising a cross brace configured to couple with the support posts or with the extensions and configured to clamp to the net and comprises a length that is adjustable.
17. A portable kit for defining the boundaries of a playing field, the kit comprising:
the system of claim 1 , wherein the deployable panels are configured to be rolled into a compact state; and
a carrying case sized to enclose and carry the system.
18. The portable kit of claim 17 , further comprising a post-driving insertion tool.
19. A method of assembling a system for defining a boundary of a playing field, the method comprising:
extending a first panel;
inserting a first post through a first sleeve coupled to a first side edge of the first panel;
inserting a second post through a second sleeve coupled to a second side edge of the first panel;
securing a bottom end of the first post into the ground or into a first support;
securing a bottom end of the second post into the ground or into a second support;
extending a second panel at an angle relative to the first panel, wherein the second panel is coupled to the second post;
extending the remaining panels, inserting the remaining posts, and securing them in like manner to form the boundary of the playing field.
20. A system for defining a boundary, the system comprising:
a plurality of deployable panels, wherein each panel is configured to collapse and deploy, a plurality of posts, wherein each post is configured to couple with at least one edge of at least one panel; and
a plurality of foundations, wherein each foundation is configured to couple a bottom portion of each post with the ground,
wherein the plurality of panels and the plurality of posts are moveable between multiple configurations, and wherein, in at least one configuration, the panels define the boundary.
Priority Applications (1)
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US14/510,943 US20150105185A1 (en) | 2013-10-11 | 2014-10-09 | Portable physical activity panels |
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US14/510,943 US20150105185A1 (en) | 2013-10-11 | 2014-10-09 | Portable physical activity panels |
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Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11332948B2 (en) * | 2018-01-23 | 2022-05-17 | KOKO Sports Management, LLC | Arena apparatus and methods of using and constructing same |
USD1024360S1 (en) | 2021-01-26 | 2024-04-23 | Action Play Systems, LLC | Panel for enclosure, wall, or the like |
Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3596701A (en) * | 1969-09-11 | 1971-08-03 | Oravisual Co Inc | Display panel assembly |
US3649011A (en) * | 1970-02-13 | 1972-03-14 | Paul J Barnes | Net sheath |
US4969500A (en) * | 1989-11-20 | 1990-11-13 | Makosa Seweryn S | Wind screen apparatus |
US5364311A (en) * | 1993-05-14 | 1994-11-15 | Chou Hung Tu | Collapsible labyrinth |
US5865355A (en) * | 1997-02-18 | 1999-02-02 | Camara; Kevin M. | Portable environmental barrier apparatus |
US8056572B2 (en) * | 2001-06-04 | 2011-11-15 | Evrio, Inc. | System for rapid concealment and shelter including angular frames and warfighter covers |
-
2014
- 2014-10-09 US US14/510,943 patent/US20150105185A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3596701A (en) * | 1969-09-11 | 1971-08-03 | Oravisual Co Inc | Display panel assembly |
US3649011A (en) * | 1970-02-13 | 1972-03-14 | Paul J Barnes | Net sheath |
US4969500A (en) * | 1989-11-20 | 1990-11-13 | Makosa Seweryn S | Wind screen apparatus |
US5364311A (en) * | 1993-05-14 | 1994-11-15 | Chou Hung Tu | Collapsible labyrinth |
US5865355A (en) * | 1997-02-18 | 1999-02-02 | Camara; Kevin M. | Portable environmental barrier apparatus |
US8056572B2 (en) * | 2001-06-04 | 2011-11-15 | Evrio, Inc. | System for rapid concealment and shelter including angular frames and warfighter covers |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11332948B2 (en) * | 2018-01-23 | 2022-05-17 | KOKO Sports Management, LLC | Arena apparatus and methods of using and constructing same |
USD1024360S1 (en) | 2021-01-26 | 2024-04-23 | Action Play Systems, LLC | Panel for enclosure, wall, or the like |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |