WO2001089347A1

WO2001089347A1 - Cloth for game table, game table having cloth, and method for installing cloth on game table

Info

Publication number: WO2001089347A1
Application number: PCT/KR2000/000518
Authority: WO
Inventors: Tanaka Hajime; Tanaka Keniji
Original assignee: Hong, Sang-Wook; Tanaka International Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 2000-05-23
Filing date: 2000-05-23
Publication date: 2001-11-29
Also published as: AU4622300A

Abstract

Disclosed is a cloth installed on a game surface of a game table. The cloth has at least one engaging end which is used for applying tensioning force to the cloth. The engaging end possesses an engaging structure. The engaging structure receives a rod-shaped member in a direction which is substantially perpendicular to a direction where tensioning force is applied to the cloth upon installation of the cloth. The rod-shaped member has a predetermined length.

Description

CLOTH FOR GAME TABLE, GAME TABLE HAVING CLOTH, AND METHOD FOR INSTALLING CLOTH ON GAME TABLE

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a cloth which is installed on a surface of a game table such as a billiard table, a mah-jongg table or the like, and more particularly, the present invention relates to a cloth which can be simply changed with new one without requiring skilled workmanship.

Background Art

Conventionally, a billiard game incorporates standardized rules pertaining to the general play of any game of billiards, and, to this end, predetermined friction must be maintained between balls which are utilized and a cloth which is laid on a billiard table. As a consequence, when assembling a billiard table, maintaining adequate tensioning force for a cloth upon installation of the cloth on a billiard table is considered as an important factor. In this sense, cloth installation must be performed by a craftsperson who precisely and continuously adjusts tensioning force applied to a portion of the cloth by pulling the portion of the cloth and then fastens the corresponding portion of the cloth to the billiard table.

In the case that the cloth is worn out, a cloth changing operation should also be implemented by a craftsperson.

In the conventional cloth, a problem is induced in that, since it is necessary to send for a craftsperson each time the cloth of the billiard table is worn out, loss is caused in terms of both time and cost. Also, due to the fact that the number of craftspersons is limited to a certain few, because it is difficult to frequently send for a craftsperson, a billiard game cannot but be played on a worn-out cloth until the craftsperson arrives, or otherwise, in an establishment with a number of tables, a number of cloths have to be changed at one time even though some of them are not so degraded that they must be changed with new ones. On the contrary, in the case of a billiard table having a cloth which is changed by an inexperienced person, as tensioning force of the cloth is not precisely established, a wrinkle can be formed on a surface of the cloth or adequate frictional force cannot be applied to balls.

Disclosure of the Invention

Accordingly, the present invention has been made in an effort to solve the problems occurring in the related art, thereby for providing a cloth for a game table which cloth can be simply changed with new one even by an inexperienced person and a construction of the game table for the cloth. That is to say, a first object of the present invention is to provide a cloth for a game table which cloth can be simply changed with new one even by an inexperienced person due to the fact that application of uniform and adequate tensioning force to the entire cloth is ensured.

A second object of the present invention is to provide a game table having a cloth, in which game table, the cloth can be simply tensioned even by an inexperienced person due to the fact that application of uniform and adequate tensioning force to the entire cloth is ensured. A third object of the present invention is to provide a method for installing a cloth on a game table by which method the cloth can be simply installed on the game table even by an inexperienced person due to the fact that application of uniform and adequate tensioning force to the entire cloth is ensured.

In order to achieve the first object, according to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cloth installed on a game surface of a game table, the cloth having at least one engaging end which is used for applying tensioning force to the cloth, the engaging end possessing an engaging structure, the engaging structure receiving a rod-shaped member in a direction which is substantially perpendicular to a direction where tensioning force is applied to the cloth upon installation of the cloth, the rod-shaped member having a predetermined length. In a state wherein the cloth is installed on the game table, if tensioning force is applied to a portion of the rod-shaped member, the rod- shaped member uniformly pulls and thereby tensions the entire cloth. By adequately adjusting the tensioning force, it is possible to conduct a cloth installing operation at the same level of workmanship as a ^'skilled worker .

Here, the game table refers to a table having a surface on which a cloth is uniformly installed, such as a billiard table, a mah-jongg table, a trump table, a roulette table or the like, provided that the surface must be necessarily covered by a cloth. For example, in the case of a billiard table, in order to allow a ball to be rebounded from a cushioning edge component, the cushioning edge component has to be properly held in position by a cloth which is installed thereon. It is contemplated that an object, only a portion of which is to be brought into contact with a ball, of course, belongs to a table having the game surface. Also, the game table is not limited to personal use, but can be widely extended to include household articles, office supplies and the like. Moreover, the game surface does not designate a surface on which a game should be inevitably played, and, rather, denotes a surface on which it is necessary to install a cloth for other purposes such as maintaining aesthetic appeal of the game surface. The cloth means, in its general term, a textile which includes woolen fabric, and so forth, and the material thereof is not limited to a specific one. It is sufficient that the cloth be a thin film which has a predetermined flexibility to be tensioned by certain tensioning force. It is deemed that the cloth includes in its widest form a thin film made of resin or metal other than textiles. The engaging end designates a part of the cloth which part does not cover the game surface when the cloth is installed on the game table. A first cloth material constituting the engaging end and a second cloth material which is installed on the game surface, are integrated with each other and distinguished from each other in terms of their contours in that portions are cut out from the first cloth material . The engaging end needs not to be limitedly formed only at one place, and, instead, may be formed at a multitude of places on the same cloth. The direction where tensioning force is applied to the cloth, means a direction where tensioning force of the engaging end acts to tension the cloth upon installation of the cloth on the game table. For example, in the case that the game surface is to be defined above the engaging end, by pulling downward the engaging end which projects from an edge of the game table, at a side of the game table, the cloth on the game surface is tensioned. In this case, the direction where tensioning force is applied to the cloth, is a downward direction. The rod-shaped member represents an object which has a predetermined rigidity and thereby, when force is applied to a portion thereof in a state that it is received in the engaging structure of the engaging end, generates stress, as a whole. The rod- shaped member is not restricted to a specific material. In this sense, a rod which is made of metal, resin, wood, etc., can be used as the rod-shaped member. There is not imposed any limitation on the engaging structure. The engaging structure can comprise an envelope structure for surrounding the rod-shaped member or a plurality of separate pieces for adequately protecting and holding the rod-shaped member. It is preferred that the engaging structure have at least one opening which exposes a portion of the rod- shaped member to the outside in a state in which the rod-shaped member is received in the engaging structure. If tensioning force is applied to the exposed portion of the rod-shaped member, the entire rod-shaped member uniformly pulls the engaging end. Here, the opening is not limited to a specific figure. For example, the opening may be a window defined in a portion of the engaging structure or may be an end of an elongated rod- shaped member which end projects out of the engaging structure.

For instance, the engaging structure comprises an envelope structure for receiving the rod-shaped member, and the envelope structure has at least one opening which exposes a portion of the rod-shaped member to the outside in a state in which the rod-shaped member is received in the envelope structure. Also, according to the present invention, the cloth may be provided in a state in which the rod-shaped member is received in the engaging structure of the cloth. This state includes a case in which the rod- shaped member is integrally secured to the engaging structure, or a case in which the rod-shaped member and the cloth are marketed as a set in a manner such that the rod-shaped member can be inserted into the engaging structure upon installation of the cloth on the game table.

Moreover, in the present invention, the cloth can include tensioning means, the tensioning means being configured in a manner such that it is engaged to the portion of the rod-shaped member, which portion is exposed to the outside through the opening defined in the engaging structure, for pulling the exposed portion of the rod-shaped member with predetermined tensioning force. Due to the fact that it is possible to apply predetermined tensioning force to the exposed portion of the rod-shaped member through the tensioning means, the entire cloth can be pulled by uniform and adequate tensioning force. Here, for example, the tensioning means can comprise an elastic member which elastically connects the exposed portion of the rod-shaped member to the game table, or a plumb bob having a predetermined weight and means for transferring the weight of the plumb bob to the exposed portion of the rod-shaped member as tensioning force. In other words, it is preferred that the tensioning means comprise a connection structure capable of transferring predetermined tensioning force to the rod-shaped member.

Further, the present invention refers to the cloth wherein a portion of the cloth, which portion corresponds to a pocket curved portion of the game table, is divided into a plurality of separate pieces by cut lines each extending from an edge or a corner of the cloth to a point on the cloth which point is to be positioned on an upper end of the pocket curved portion of the game table when the cloth is installed on the game table, in a manner such that each separate piece has a length which is sufficient to cover an entire thickness of the pocket curved portion of the game table.

By dividing the portion of the cloth which portion corresponds to the pocket curved portion of the game table, into the plurality of separate pieces, it is possible to uniformly tension the cloth on the game surface without causing a wrinkle. The portion of the cloth which portion corresponds to the pocket curved portion of the game table, can have a profile which is depressed inward or protruded outward. In addition, it is preferred that each of a plurality of engaging members be held by a portion of the separate piece for tensioning the corresponding separate piece in a direction where tensioning force is applied to the cloth when the cloth is installed on the game table. A method in which tensioning force is applied to the engaging member by elastic force or a weight of a plumb bob, can be adopted in accordance with the present invention.

In order to achieve the second object, according to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a game table on which the cloth of the present invention can be installed, the game table comprising: an engaging section for engaging one end of the elastic member to the game table at a location where the elastic member can apply predetermined tensioning force to the cloth by virtue of its elasticity when the cloth is installed on the game table. By the fact that the one end of the elastic member is engaged to the engaging section, predetermined tensioning force is applied to the exposed portion of the rod-shaped member. Upon installation of the cloth on the game table, a distance between the engaging structure of the cloth and the engaging section is determined in a manner such that adequate tensioning force can be applied to the exposed portion of the rod-shaped member by virtue of elasticity of the elastic member. A positional relationship between the engaging structure and the engaging section is established in such a way that, as tensioning force is applied to the exposed portion of the rod-shaped member, the rod-shaped member is pulled in a direction where tensioning force is uniformly applied to the cloth on the game surface. A construction of the engaging section is not restricted to a specific one, provided that it can fasten a portion of the elastic member to the game table . Also, the present invention refers to a game table on which the cloth of the present invention can be installed, the game table comprising: a plumb bob position determining member for movably holding the plumb bob of the tensioning means at a predetermined position when the cloth is installed on the game table. The plumb bob position determining member indicates a member such as a guide which slidably holds at a predetermined position a band which connects the rod- shaped member and the plumb bob with each other. In order to achieve the third object, according to still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for installing the cloth according to claim 1 on a game surface of a game table, the method comprising the steps of: covering the game surface with the cloth; and connecting the portion of the rod- shaped member, which portion is exposed to the outside through the engaging structure, with an engaging section provided on the game table, by means of a tensioning member having predetermined elasticity. In addition, the present invention refers to a method for installing the cloth according to claim 1 on a game surface of a game table, the method comprising the steps of: covering the game surface with the cloth; and engaging the other end of a tensioning member having engaged to one end thereof a plumb bob, to the portion of the rod-shaped member, which portion is exposed to the outside through the engaging structure.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The above objects, and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent after a reading of the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is of views illustrating a structure for installing a straight portion of a cloth on a game table, in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention, wherein FIG. la is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A of FIG. lb and FIG. lb is a bottom view of the game table at a place where the straight portion of the cloth is installed; FIG. 2 is of views illustrating a structure for installing a side pocket curved portion of the cloth on the game table, in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention, wherein FIG. 2a is a cross- sectional view taken along the line B-B of FIG. 2b and FIG. 2b is a bottom view of the game table at a place where the side pocket curved portion of the cloth is installed;

FIG. 3 is a bottom view illustrating a structure for installing a corner pocket curved portion of the cloth on the game table, in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating an outer appearance of a billiard table used in the present invention; FIG. 5 is of views illustrating the billiard table of FIG. 4, wherein FIG. 5a is a plan view, FIG. 5b is a side view and FIG. 5c is a front view;

FIG. 6 is a development view of the cloth used in the first embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 7 is of views illustrating a procedure for preparing an engaging end of the straight portion of the cloth;

FIG. 8 is of views illustrating a procedure for preparing an engaging end of the side pocket curved portion of the cloth;

FIG. 9 is of views illustrating a procedure for preparing an engaging end of the corner pocket curved portion of the cloth;

FIG. 10 is of views for explaining a method of installing the straight portion of the cloth on the game table;

FIG. 11 is a view for explaining a method of installing the side pocket curved portion of the cloth on the game table; FIG. 12 is a view for explaining a method of installing the corner pocket curved portion of the cloth on the game table; FIG. 13 is a view for explaining a method of installing a cloth on a game table using a tensioning member in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 14 is a view for explaining a method of installing a cloth on a game table using a tensioning member in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a view for explaining a method of installing a cloth on a game table using a tensioning member in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a view for explaining a method of installing a straight portion of a cloth on a game table in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a view for explaining a method of installing a straight portion of a cloth on a game table in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a development view of a cloth in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a partial perspective view illustrating a structure for installing a corner pocket curved portion of the cloth shown in FIG. 18 on a game table;

FIG. 20 is a partial perspective view illustrating a structure for installing a side pocket curved portion of the cloth shown in FIG. 18 on the game table; FIG. 21 is a partial perspective view illustrating a method of installing the side pocket curved portion of the cloth shown in FIG. 18 on the game table; and

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state wherein the cloth shown in FIG. 18 is installed on the game table.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

Reference will now be made in greater detail to a preferred embodiment of the invention, an example of which is illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts.

EMBODIMENT 1

A first embodiment of the present invention is applied to a billiard table which belongs to a game table, more specifically, to a pocket billiard table (an American style pocket billiard table) which is provided with pockets. Also, the same applies to a Snooker billiard table (a British style pocket billiard table) even though the Snooker billiard table has a different size. Further, except that pockets are not provided, the same also applies to a Carom billiard table.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating an outer appearance of a billiard table, and FIG. 5 is of views illustrating the billiard table of FIG. 4, wherein FIG. 5a is a plan view, FIG. 5b is a side view and FIG. 5c is a front view. The billiard table 100 is constructed in such a manner that an outer framework 120 is mounted to a base support 110 which is covered by a cloth 200.

The base support 110 includes a slate 111, a table plate 115, skirt parts 114 and 119, leg plates 117, leg rests 118 and an engaging plate 116. The slate 111 defines at an upper surface thereof a game surface 101 on which the cloth 200 is installed. The slate 111 is a plate-shaped member for flatly maintaining the game surface 101 in a horizontal direction and is made of marble or gypsum. The table plate 115 is made of wood and serves as a support onto which the slate 111 is seated. The skirt parts 114 and 119 and the leg plates 117 are also made „of wood and constitute a skeleton of the billiard table 100. The engaging plate 116 serves as a plate on which a plurality of engaging sections 130 are disposed. The plurality of engaging sections 130 are arranged at locations where they are opposed to a plurality of openings 212, respectively, which are defined in the cloth 200, when the cloth 200 is installed on the game surface 101.

The outer framework 120 includes an upper frame part 121, an apron part 122, and a guide 125. The outer framework 120 is made of hard wood such as an overcup oak, a bristletooth oak, and so on, or resin. A surface of the outer framework 120 is treated to render aesthetic appeal. The upper frame part 121 is a combination of a plurality of segments. In a lengthwise direction of the upper frame part 121 which direction includes a side pocket 102, two segments are jointed with each other at a place where the side pocket 102 is positioned, and in a widthwise direction of the upper frame part 121, one segment extends between two corner pockets 103. A cushioning edge 126 which is made of rubber, is attached to an inner end of the upper frame part 121 to allow a ball to be rebounded therefrom. The apron part 122 is coupled to the upper frame part 121 and functions to veil peripheral portions of the game surface 101 and side walls of the base support 110. Accordingly, an entire engaging mechanism according to the present invention is not viewed from a top or a side .

Two side pockets 102 are defined at both sides, respectively, of the game surface 101, and four corner pockets 103 are defined at four corners, respectively, of the game surface 101. Each side pocket 102 is located at a place where a first curved edge portion 112 of the base support 110 and a second curved edge portion 123 of the upper frame part 121 are combined with each other to define a hole. An ornamental frame 104 is fitted to a portion of the upper frame part 121 which portion defines the side pocket 102 in a manner such that the ornamental frame 104 joints the two segments with each other which cooperatively constitute the upper frame part 121 in the lengthwise direction. FIG. 6 is a development view of the cloth 200 used in the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 6, the cloth 200 has a plurality of engaging ends 210 in addition to a game surface area 201 which is overlapped on the game surface 101 of the base support 110.

Each engaging end 210 has a side flap part 211 and a folding part 213. As can be readily seen from FIG. 7, the engaging end 210 is formed with an engaging structure in that the folding part 213 is folded (see FIG. 7a) and an outer free end of the folding part 213 is stitched to an inner end thereof along a stitching line 214 (see FIG. 7b) . Each folding part 213 is defined with the plurality of openings 212 each serving as a window. The number of the openings 212 is determined in a manner such that required tensioning force can be uniformly applied to a rod-shaped member 215 which is received in the engaging structure. In this connection, it is preferred that at least two openings 212 be defined in each folding part 213. The engaging structure is configured in a manner such that the rod- shaped member 215 can be inserted therein as shown in FIG. 10a, and portions of the inserted rod-shaped member 215 are exposed to the outside through the plurality of openings 212, respectively. A material of the rod- shaped member 215 is not limited to a specific one, provided that it has a predetermined rigidity. A rod which is made of metal, resin, wood, etc., can be used as the rod-shaped member 215. The cloth 200 can be provided in a state in which the rod-shaped member 215 is inserted into the engaging structure, or the rod- shaped member 215 and the cloth 200 can be marketed together in a state of being included in a pack in a manner such that the rod-shaped member 215 can be inserted into the engaging structure upon installation of the cloth 200 on the game surface 101. Further, due to the fact that the rod-shaped member 215 is considerably durable, it is generally difficult to be broken allowing it to be reused repeatedly, and the cloth 200 can be marketed by itself without forcing the consumer to unnecessarily purchase another rod-shaped member 215. The cloth 200 has a side pocket engaging end 220 at a location corresponding to each side pocket 102. The side pocket engaging end 220 is divided into a plurality of separate pieces 221 by a plurality of cut lines each of which extends inward from the edge of the cloth 200 in a diametric direction of the side pocket 102. As can be readily seen from FIG. 8, by the fact that a rubber ring 223 serving as an engaging member is inserted into a folding part 222 which is formed in each separate piece 221 (see FIG. 8a) and an outer free end of the folding part 222 is stitched to an inner end thereof along a stitching line 224 (see FIG. 8b) , the side pocket engaging end 220 is formed with an engaging structure which can be engaged to the base support 110.

The cloth 200 has a corner pocket engaging end 230 at a location corresponding to each corner pocket 103. The corner pocket engaging end 230 is divided into a plurality of separate pieces 231 by a plurality of cut lines each of which extends inward from the corner of the cloth 200 in a diametric direction of the corner pocket 103. As can be readily seen from FIG. 9, by the fact that a rubber ring 233 serving as an engaging member is inserted into a folding part 232 which is formed in each separate piece 231 (see FIG. 9a) and an outer free end of the folding part 232 is stitched to an inner end thereof along a stitching line 234 (see FIG. 9b) , the corner pocket engaging end 230 is formed with an engaging structure which can be engaged to the base support 110.

The side and corner pockets 102 and 103 may not have tensioning force applying structures which are shown in FIGs . 2 and 3, respectively. This is because pocket curved portions which are formed along edges of the game surface 101, are outstandingly small when compared to straight portions and therefore, even in the case of not providing the tensioning force applying structures to the pocket curved portions, an influence which is exerted by this to the entire cloth 200, is limsy.

Referring to FIG. 1, there is illustrated a structure for installing a straight portion of the cloth 200 on the game surface 101 using the engaging end 210. FIG. lb is a bottom view illustrating engaging portions of the engaging end 210 upon installation of the cloth 200 on the game surface 101, and FIG. la is a cross- sectional view taken along the line A-A of FIG. lb. As shown in FIG. 1, positions of the openings 212 of the engaging structure which is provided to the engaging end 210 of the cloth 200, are established in a manner such that they are opposed to the engaging plate 116 of the base support 110. As described above, the plurality of engaging sections 130 are disposed on the engaging plate 116. Each engaging section 130 is constructed in such a manner that a first hook element 131 is fastened to the engaging plate 116 by a screw 132. The cloth 200 and the base support 110 are connected with each other through a first tensioning member 240. The first tensioning member 240 is constructed by the fact that a second hook element 242 is secured to an end of a rubber ring element 241 having a predetermined configuration. The rubber ring element 241 of the first tensioning member 240 is engaged to the portion of the rod-shaped member 125 which portion is exposed to the outside through the opening 212. The first hook element 131 of the engaging section 130 and the second hook element 242 of the first tensioning member 240 are hooked to each

- other. By these arrangements, at a side of the base support 110, the cloth 200 is tensioned downward. At this time, elasticity of the rubber ring element 241 constituting the first tensioning member 240 and a distance between the opening 212 and the engaging section 130 are established in such a manner that tensioning force which is substantially the same as that created by a craftsperson who pulls by hand a cloth in the conventional art, is applied to the cloth 200.

Referring to FIG. 2, there is illustrated a structure for installing the side pocket curved portion of the cloth 200 on the game surface 101 using the side pocket engaging end 220. FIG. 2b is a bottom view illustrating engaging portions of the installed cloth 200, and FIG. 2a is a cross-sectional view taken along the line B-B of FIG. 2b. As shown in FIG. 2, in each side pocket 102, as described above, the rubber ring 223 serving as the engaging member is inserted into the folding part 222 of each separate piece 221. The rubber ring 223 is pulled and hooked to the engaging section 130 which is disposed on a lower surface of the engaging plate 116 of the base support 110. At this time, a position of each engaging section 130 is established in such a manner that it can tension downward the separate piece 221 along the side wall of the base support 110, that is, the cloth 200 is pulled and tensioned in a direction toward a center of a semi-circle of the side pocket 102. Referring to FIG. 3, there is illustrated a structure for installing the corner pocket curved portion of the cloth 200 on the game surface 101 using the corner pocket engaging end 230. FIG. 3 is a bottom view illustrating engaging portions of the installed cloth 200. As shown in FIG. 3, in each corner pocket 103, as described above, the rubber ring 233 serving as the engaging member is inserted into the folding part 232 of each separate piece 231. The rubber ring 233 is pulled and hooked to the engaging section 130 which is disposed on the lower surface of the engaging plate 116 of the base support 110. At this time, a position of each engaging section 130 is established in such a manner that it can tension downward the separate piece 231 along the side wall of the base support 110, that is, the cloth 200 is pulled and tensioned in a direction toward a center of a quarter circle of the corner pocket 103.

Hereinafter, a cloth installation method according to the present invention will be described in detail. FIG. 10 is of views for explaining a method of installing the straight portion of the cloth on the game surface; FIG. 11 is a view for explaining a method of installing the side pocket curved portion of the cloth on the game surface; and FIG. 12 is a view for explaining a method of installing the corner pocket curved portion of the cloth on the game surface. If the performance of a cloth is deteriorated due to the fact that the cloth is used for a lengthy period of time, a ball cannot be rotated as a player hopes. In this case, a cloth changing operation is implemented as stated below. First, in order to strip off a worn-out cloth, the outer framework 120 is disassembled from the base support 110. Then, the worn-out cloth is removed. Thereafter, the game surface 101 is covered by a new cloth 200 which is deployed, so that upper and lower surfaces thereof are not inverted. Thereupon, as can be readily seen from FIG. 10a, the rod-shaped member 125 is inserted into the engaging structure of the engaging end 210 from a side. Also, in the case of the cloth 200 which is not provided as a set with the rod-shaped member 125, the rod-shaped member 125 which is pulled out from the worn-out cloth, is reused. Of course, in the case of the cloth 200 in which the rod-shaped member 125 is secured in advance to the engaging end 210 by stitching, this procedure is unnecessary.

Next, the first tensioning member 240 which is provided along with the cloth 200, is engaged to the portion of the rod-shaped member 215 which portion is exposed to the outside through the opening 212 of the engaging structure (see FIG. 10b) . At this time, the rubber ring element 241 is tied to the rod-shaped member 215 after being passed around the portion of the rod- shaped member 215 which portion is exposed to the outside through the opening 212, as shown in the drawing. In the case that the plurality of engaging ends 210 are provided, a plurality of first tensioning members 240 are tied to all the rod-shaped members 215 which are arranged for the plurality of engaging ends 210, respectively. Also, in the case of the cloth 200 which is marketed in a state wherein the first tensioning members 240 are tied to the rod-shaped member 215, this procedure is unnecessary. Finally, after confirming whether the cloth 200 is accurately located with respect to the base support 110, the second hook element 242 of the first tensioning member 240 is engaged to the first hook element 131 of the engaging section 130 (see FIG. 10c) . For example, in order to ensure the fact that the engaging end 210 is not misaligned with the engaging section 130, after one first tensioning member 240 is tied to one engaging end 210 on one side of the game surface 101, another engaging end 210 on the other side of the game surface 101 is engaged to another first tensioning member 240 by being pulled.

If the installation of the straight portion of the cloth 200 on the game surface 101 by using the engaging end 210 is completed, the pocket curved portions of the cloth 200 are subsequently installed on the game surface 101. In the case of the side pocket curved portion for the side pocket 102, the separate piece 221 of the side pocket engaging end 220 is hung down inside the side pocket 102. Then, the rubber ring 223 which is secured by the folding part 222, is pulled and hooked to the first hook element 131 of the engaging section 130 on the lower surface of the engaging plate 116 (see FIG. 11) . Also, in the case of the corner pocket curved portion for the corner pocket 103, the separate piece 231 of the corner pocket engaging end 230 is hung down inside the corner pocket 103. Then, the rubber ring 233 which is secured by the folding part 232, is pulled and hooked to the first hook element 131 of the engaging section 130 on the lower surface of the engaging plate 116 (see FIG. 12) .

If the installation of the pocket curved portions of the cloth 200 on the game surface 101 by using the pocket engaging ends 220 and 230, respectively, is completed, the disassembled outer framework 120 is carefully re-assembled to the base support 110.

In the above-described procedures, elasticity of the first tensioning member 240 and the rubber rings 223 and 233 starts to act as soon as they are engaged to the engaging sections 130, respectively. In the case of the engaging end 210, depending upon the distance between the opening 212 and the engaging section 130, the rubber ring element 241 pulls the rod-shaped member 215 toward the engaging section 130 by means of predetermined force which is determined by the elasticity thereof while being elastically elongated. If the rod-shaped member 215 is pulled by the first tensioning members 240 at the portions which are exposed to the outside through the openings 212, due to the fact that remaining portions of the rod-shaped member 215 are integrally secured to the engaging end 210 by the engaging structure, the rod- shaped member 215 uniformly tensions downward the cloth 200 along the entire engaging end 210. This tensioning force is transferred to the game surface area 201 through the side flap part 211 of the engaging end 210 of the cloth 200. Consequently, as two engaging ends 210 which are oppositely positioned to each other while sandwiching the game surface 101 between them, pull the cloth 200 toward themselves, the cloth 200 as a whole is uniformly tensioned on the game surface 101. Moreover, because the cloth 200 is also tensioned by uniform tensioning force in the side and corner pocket curved portions, it is possible to tension the cloth 200 around the side pockets 102 and the corner pockets 103 without causing a wrinkle on the cloth 200, thereby rendering aesthetic appeal of the cloth 200.

Further, in the case of the Carom billiard table, since a pocket is not provided, a width of the engaging end 210 can be enlarged, and installation of the pocket curved portions is not needed. However, if the width of the engaging end 210 is too large, since inconvenience is caused in that a length of the rod-shaped member 215 is also enlarged, the cloth 200 can be formed to have several engaging ends 210 each having a proper width. By the. first embodiment, tensioning force which is applied to the entire cloth 200, is established in a manner such that it is substantially the same as that created in the case that a craftsperson installs a cloth on a game surface as aforementioned above. Since the cloth is configured in such a manner that tensioning force is uniformly applied thereto upon installation thereof, even an inexperienced person can install, through a simple procedure, the cloth 200 with proper and uniform tensioning force which is substantially the same as that created in the case that a craftsperson installs a cloth on a game surface as aforementioned above, thereby rendering aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, because the installation work is simply performed, a cloth installation time is remarkably shortened, and it is possible to change a multitude of cloths in a short time .

Also, by the first embodiment, due to the fact that the engaging end 210 is positioned on the lower surface of the engaging plate 116 in a manner such that it is veiled by the outer framework 120, a problem is not induced in rendering aesthetic appeal .

In addition, by the first embodiment, because the cloth 200 is tensioned using the rubber rings which are well known in the art, economy is achieved.

EMBODIMENT 2

A second embodiment of the present invention provides another type of tensioning member. FIG. 13 is a view for explaining a method of installing a cloth on a game surface using a tensioning member in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention. That is to say, FIG. 13 is a bottom view illustrating the engaging structure of the engaging end 210.

As shown in FIG. 13, a second tensioning member 250 of the present embodiment is constructed in a manner such that a pair of hooks 252 are fastened to both ends, respectively, of a rubber band 251. The rubber band 251 has predetermined elasticity. Due to this, the rubber band 251 can pull the pair of hooks 252 to apply tensioning force to the rod-shaped member 215. Elasticity of the rubber band 251 constituting the second tensioning member 250 and a distance between the opening 212 and the engaging section 130 are established in such a manner that tensioning force which is substantially the same as that created by a craftsperson who pulls by hand a cloth in the conventional art, is applied to the cloth 200. The second tensioning member 250 can be used in the same manner as the first tensioning member 240 of the first embodiment. However, because it is sufficient that the pair of hooks 252 which are fastened to both ends, respectively, of the rubber band 251, are pulled and then engaged and hooked to the rod-shaped member 215 and the engaging section 130, respectively, the tying operation as shown in FIG. 10b is unnecessary.

By the second embodiment, in addition to accomplishing the same effects as those of the first embodiment, because it is sufficient that the second tensioning member 250 is pulled and then engaged and hooked to the rod-shaped member 215 and the engaging section 130, respectively, the cloth 200 can be installed on the game surface 101 with less effort.

EMBODIMENT 3

A third embodiment of the present invention provides still another type of tensioning member. FIG.

14 is a view for explaining a method of installing a cloth on a game surface using a tensioning member in accordance with the third embodiment of the present invention. In other words, FIG. 14 is a bottom view illustrating the engaging structure of the engaging end

210. As shown in FIG. 14, a third tensioning member 260 of the present embodiment comprises a spring 261 which has both hook-shaped ends 262. The spring 261 has predetermined elasticity. Due to this, the spring 261 can pull the both hook-shaped ends 262 to apply tensioning force to the rod-shaped member 215. A spring constant of the spring 261 ^' constituting the third tensioning member 260 and a distance between the opening 212 and the engaging section 130 are established in such a manner that tensioning force which is substantially the same as that created by a craftsperson who pulls by hand a cloth in the conventional art, is applied to the cloth 200. The third tensioning member 260 can be used in the same manner as the first tensioning member 240 of the first embodiment. However, because it is sufficient that the both hook-shaped ends 262 of the spring 261, are pulled and then engaged and hooked to the rod-shaped member 215 and the engaging section 130, respectively, the tying operation as shown in FIG. 10b is unnecessary.

By the third embodiment, in addition to accomplishing the same effects as those of the first embodiment, because it is sufficient that the third tensioning member 260 is pulled and then engaged and hooked to the rod-shaped member 215 and the engaging section 130, respectively, the cloth 200 can be installed on the game surface 101 with less effort. Also, because the spring 261 has a predetermined rigidity, it can tension the cloth 200 with uniform tensioning force over a lengthy period of time in a sufficient manner.

EMBODIMENT 4 A fourth embodiment of the present invention provides yet still another type of tensioning member.

FIG. 15 is a view for explaining a method of installing a cloth on a game surface using a tensioning member in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Namely, FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the engaging structure of the engaging end

210.

As shown in FIG. 15, a fourth tensioning member

270 of the present embodiment is constructed in a manner such that a hook 272 is connected to one end of a band

271 and a plumb bob 273 is connected to the other end of the band 271. The fourth tensioning member 270 can apply tensioning force to the rod-shaped member 215 due to the fact that the hook 272 is pulled and engaged to the exposed portion of the rod-shaped member 215. The plumb bob 273 has a predetermined weight. A weight of the plumb bob 273 constituting the fourth tensioning member 270 is established in such a manner that tensioning force which is substantially the same as that created by a craftsperson who pulls by hand a cloth in the conventional art, is applied to the cloth 200. Both ends of a guide rod 142 are secured to the engaging plate 116 of the base support 110 by pins 141.

In the above-described construction, upon installation of the cloth 200 on the game surface 101, the band 271 passes through a space which is defined between the guide rod 142 and the engaging plate 116, and then, the hook 272 is engaged to the portion of the rod-shaped member 215 which portion is exposed to the outside through the opening 212. By doing these, as the rod-shaped member 215 is pulled in a direction toward the guide rod 142 by tensioning force which is determined by the weight of the plumb bob 273, the rod- shaped member 215 functions in the same manner as in the above-described embodiments. By the fourth embodiment, in addition to accomplishing the same effects as those of the first embodiment, the cloth 200 is not degraded in its performance because it does not include any elastic member which can be varied in its elasticity with the elapse of a lengthy period of time. Also, since it is possible to finely adjust the tensioning force by weight establishment of the plumb bob 273, this embodiment is suitable for the case in which the tensioning force must be precisely established.

EMBODIMENT 5

A fifth embodiment of the present invention provides another type of engaging end which is different from the engaging end of the first embodiment. FIG. 16

^• is a view for explaining a method of installing a straight portion of a cloth on a game surface in accordance with the fifth embodiment of the present invention. That is to say, FIG. 16 is a bottom view illustrating the engaging structure of the engaging end 310.

As shown in FIG. 16, in the engaging end 310 of this embodiment, by the fact that portions of the cloth 200 are folded, a plurality of envelope structures 313 are formed. Instead of folding the portions of the cloth 200, fine pieces made of a cloth material can be stitched to the engaging end 310 to define the plurality of envelope structures 313. A space between two adjoining envelope structures 313 serves as an opening 312 of the rod-shaped member 215. In this embodiment, as portions of the rod-shaped member 215 are engaged by the tensioning members, respectively, the engaging structure which functions in the same manner as in the above-described embodiments, can be realized.

EMBODIMENT 6

A sixth embodiment of the present invention provides yet another type of engaging end which is different from the engaging end of the first embodiment.^' FIG. 17 is a view for explaining a method of installing a straight portion of a cloth on a game surface in accordance with the sixth embodiment of the present invention. In other words, FIG. 17 is a bottom view illustrating the engaging structure of the engaging end 320.

As shown in FIG. 17, unlike the case of the first embodiment, in the engaging end 320 of this embodiment, the engaging structure 323 is not provided with an opening. Instead, the rod-shaped member 215 is formed in a manner such that it is longer than the engaging end 320 by a predetermined length. For this reason, if the rod-shaped member 215 is inserted into the engaging structure 323 of the engaging end 320, both ends of the rod- shaped member 215 project out of both ends of the engaging end 320, respectively. These projected portions of the rod-shaped member 215 serve as exposed portions 322. A length of the rod-shaped member 215 is adjusted in a manner such that a length of each exposed portion 322 is sufficient to be engaged by the tensioning member 240. The engaging section 130 which is disposed on the lower surface of the engaging plate 116 of the base support 110, is located in such a manner that it is opposed to the exposed portion 322 upon installation of the cloth 200 on the game surface 101. As can be readily seen from this embodiment, an opening is not necessarily needed in the engaging structure, and, instead, by pulling both ends of the rod-shaped member 215 using the tensioning members, the cloth 200 can be properly tensioned.

EMBODIMENT 7

A seventh embodiment of the present invention is related to a cloth 400 which is applied to the cushioning edge 126 of the outer framework 120 in the first embodiment. FIG. 18 is a development view of the cloth 400 which is applied to the cushioning edge in accordance with the seventh embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, an example in which the cloth 400 of this embodiment is provided as one of the structural components of the outer framework 120 in the lengthwise direction, is illustrated. As shown in FIG. 18, in the cloth 400 according to this embodiment, one of two longer edge portions (a lower edge portion in FIG. 18) is wedgedly secured into the upper frame part 121. The cloth 400 is tailored in a manner such that it covers the cushioning edge 126 while centering on the one of two longer edge portions. Edge portions of the cloth 400 which edge portions adjoin pockets, respectively, are tailored in a manner such that, as in the case of packing a box, by folding the corresponding edge portions of the cloth 400, the upper frame part 121 is covered while rendering aesthetic appeal. In the cloth 400, the other of the two longer edge portions (an upper edge portion in FIG. 18 which forms the engaging end) is provided with an engaging structure 410, one of two shorter edge portions (a left edge portion in FIG. 18) is provided with engaging structures 420 and 430, and the other of two shorter edge portions (a right edge portion in FIG. 18) is provided with engaging structures 440 and 450. Also, in the case of another cloth 400 which is provided to cover the upper frame part 121 in the widthwise direction, two shorter edge portions are tailored to each have a roof-shaped configuration as shown for the other of two shorter edge portions in FIG. 18, in a manner such that they can cover two corner pockets, respectively. At this time, each of two sides of each of two shorter edge portions, which sides define the roof-shaped configuration, is provided with the engaging structure. The cloth 400 is formed to have a contour which is larger than that of the upper frame part 121, and is tailored in a manner such that its peripheral portions can define the engaging ends.

Referring to FIGs . 19 and 20, there are shown perspective views illustrating the engaging structures 410, 420, 430, 440 and 450 and installation methods thereof. While the tensioning member 240 and the engaging section 130 as aforementioned above are illustrated in this embodiment for the sake of clarity in explanations, other tensioning means and/or engaging means can also be employed. The respective engaging structures 410, 420, 430, 440 and 450 comprise their respective envelope structures 413, 423, 433, 443 and 453. The envelope structures 413, 423, 433, 443 and 453 are formed with openings 412, 422, 432, 442 and 452, respectively. Each envelope structure has at least one opening. Rod-shaped members 415, 425, 435, 445 and 455 each of which has a length suitable for that of the corresponding envelope structure, are secured to the envelope structures 413, 423, 433, 443 and 453, respectively, by stitching. Upon installation of the cloth 400, to the portions of the rod-shaped members 415, 425, 435, 445 and 455 which portions are exposed to the outside through the openings 412, 422, 432, 442 and 452, respectively, there are engaged tensioning members 240, respectively, as described in the first embodiment of the present invention. Elasticity of the respective tensioning members 240 is adjusted in a manner such that tensioning force which is substantially the same as that created by a craftsperson who pulls by hand a cloth in the conventional art, is applied to the cloth 400.

The upper frame part 121 is defined with a plurality of recesses 127 for receiving the tensioning members 240, respectively, upon installation of the cloth 400 on the game surface 101. The plurality of recesses 127 are defined by the fact that portions of the upper frame part 121 are cut out. The plurality of recesses 127 are defined in a manner such that they correspond to the openings, respectively, of the cloth 400. For example, the engaging sections 130 as described above in the first embodiment are fastened to the plurality of recesses 127, respectively, in a manner such that the tensioning members 240 are engaged to the engaging sections 130, respectively. In order to reduce the number of required components, it is preferred that the same tensioning member component be commonly used for all the engaging structures. To this end, positions of the respective recesses 127 are adjusted in a manner such that substantially uniform tensioning force is applied to the respective tensioning members.

Upon installation of the cloth 400, the one of two longer edge portions, which is not provided with any engaging structure, is first wedgedly secured to the upper frame part 121. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state wherein the cloth 400 shown in FIG. 18 is installed on the game surface 101. An upper surface of the upper frame part 121 is formed with a groove 128 for securing the cloth 400. The groove 128 extends in the lengthwise direction. After winding the one of the two longer edge portions of the cloth 400 which is not provided with any engaging structure, around a wedge member 129, the wedge member 129 is fitted into the groove 128 to secure the cloth 400. It is preferred that installation of the one of the two longer edge portions of the cloth 400 be performed in the same manner as implemented in the conventional art.

Then, as shown in FIGs. 19 through 21, the tensioning members 240 are engaged to the engaging sections 130 disposed in the recesses 127, in order of circled numbers, while surrounding the cushioning edge 126 with the cloth 400. In other words, initially, the tensioning member 240 of the engaging structure 440 for one corner edge portion is engaged to the engaging section 130, and then, by covering the cushioning edge 126 with the cloth 400, the tensioning member 240 of the engaging structure 410 is hooked to the engaging section 130. Thereupon, another tensioning member 240 of the engaging structure 450 for the other corner edge portion is hooked to the engaging section 130.

After that, installation of the cloth 400 for the side pocket 102 is conducted. After the tensioning member 240 of the engaging structure 410 is hooked to the engaging section 130, the tensioning member 240 of the engaging structure 420 and the tensioning member 240 of the engaging structure 430 are sequentially hooked or fastened to the engaging sections 130, respectively. The fastening order is not limited to that illustrated in the drawings, provided that a portion of the cloth 400 which portion is folded in the pocket edge portion, is not protruded to the outside and aesthetic appeal of the cloth is rendered. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state wherein the cloth 400 shown in FIG. 18 is installed on the game surface 101.

By the seventh embodiment, tensioning force which is applied to the entire cloth 400, is established in a manner such that it is substantially the same as that created in the case that a craftsperson installs a cloth on a game surface as aforementioned above. Since the cloth is configured in such a manner that tensioning force is uniformly applied thereto upon installation thereof, even an inexperienced person can install, through a simple procedure, the cloth 400 with proper and uniform tensioning force which is substantially the same as that created in the case that a craftsperson installs a cloth on a game surface as aforementioned above, thereby rendering aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, because the installation work is simply performed, a cloth installation time is remarkably shortened, and it is possible to change a multitude of cloths in a short time.

Also, by the seventh embodiment, due to the fact that the engaging ends are positioned on the lower surface of the engaging plate in a manner such that it is veiled by the outer framework, a problem is not induced in rendering aesthetic appeal .

In addition, by the seventh embodiment, because the cloth 400 is tensioned using the rubber rings which are well known in the art, economy is achieved.

In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed typical preferred embodiments of the invention and, although specific terms are employed, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation, the scope of the invention being set forth in the following claims. An object to which the cloth of the present invention is applied, is not limited to a billiard table. For example, the cloth according to the present invention can be widely applied to a game table such as a mah-jongg table, a trump table, a roulette table or the like, which game table is generally covered with a cloth (woolen fabric) , household articles, office supplies, etc.

Industrial Applicability

As a result, by the present invention, since the cloth is constructed in a manner such that a rod-shaped member is engaged to an end of the cloth and a portion of the rod-shaped member can be tensioned by predetermined tensioning force, due to the fact that application of uniform and adequate tensioning force to the entire cloth is ensured, a cloth for a game table, which cloth can be simply changed with a new one even by an inexperienced person, is provided.

Moreover, because an engaging section for engaging an elastic member to the game table is disposed in a location where the elastic member can apply predetermined tensioning force to the portion of the rod-shaped member, due to the fact that application of uniform and adequate tensioning force to the entire cloth is ensured, the game table having the cloth, in which game table, the cloth can be simply tensioned to be installed on the game table even by an inexperienced person, is provided.

Furthermore, as the rod-shaped member which is arranged at the end of the cloth can be tensioned by predetermined tensioning force after the cloth is installed on the game table, due to the fact that application of uniform and adequate tensioning force to the entire cloth is ensured, a method for installing the cloth on the game table by which method the cloth can be simply installed on the game table even by an inexperienced person, is provided.

Claims

1. A cloth installed on a game surface of a game table, the cloth having at least one engaging end which is used for applying tensioning force to the cloth, the engaging end possessing an engaging structure, the engaging structure receiving a rod-shaped member in a direction which is substantially perpendicular to a direction where tensioning force is applied to the cloth upon installation of the cloth, the rod-shaped member having a predetermined length.

2. The cloth as claimed in claim 1, wherein the engaging structure has at least one opening which exposes a portion of the rod-shaped member to the outside in a state in which the rod-shaped member is received in the engaging structure.

3. The cloth as claimed in claim 1, wherein the engaging structure comprises an envelope structure for receiving the rod-shaped member, and the envelope structure has at least one opening which exposes a portion of the rod-shaped member to the outside in a state in which the rod-shaped member is received in the envelope structure .

4. The cloth as claimed in any one of the claims 1 to 3 , wherein the cloth is provided in a state in which the rod-shaped member is received in the engaging structure of the cloth.

5. The cloth as claimed in any one of the claims 1 to 3 , wherein the cloth includes tensioning means, the tensioning means being configured in a manner such that it is engaged to the portion of the rod-shaped member, which portion is exposed to the outside through the opening defined in the engaging structure, for pulling the exposed portion of the rod-shaped member with predetermined tensioning force.

6. The cloth as claimed in claim 5, wherein the tensioning means comprises an elastic member which elastically connects the exposed portion of the rod- shaped member to the game table .

7. The cloth as claimed in claim 5, wherein the tensioning means comprises a plumb bob having a predetermined weight and means for transferring the weight of the plumb bob to the exposed portion of the rod-shaped member as tensioning force.

8. The cloth as claimed in any one of the claims 1 to 3 , wherein a portion of the cloth, which portion corresponds to a pocket curved portion of the game table, is divided into a plurality of separate pieces by cut lines each extending from an edge or a corner of the cloth to a point on the cloth which point is to be positioned on an upper end of the pocket curved portion of the game table when the cloth is installed on the game table, in a manner such that each separate piece has a length which is sufficient to cover an entire thickness of the pocket curved portion of the game table.

9. The cloth as claimed in claim 8, wherein each of a plurality of engaging members is held by a portion of the separate piece for tensioning the corresponding separate piece in a direction where tensioning force is applied to the cloth when the cloth is installed on the game table.

10. A game table on which the cloth according to claim 6 can be installed, the game table comprising: an engaging section for engaging one end of the elastic member to the game table at a location where the elastic member can apply predetermined tensioning force to the cloth by virtue of its elasticity when the cloth is installed on the game table.

11. A game table on which the cloth according to claim 7 can be installed, the game table comprising: a plumb bob position determining member for movably holding the plumb bob of the tensioning means at a predetermined position when the cloth is installed on the game table.

12. A method for installing the cloth according to claim 1 on a game surface of a game table, the method comprising the steps of: covering the game surface with the cloth; and connecting the portion of the rod-shaped member, which portion is exposed to the outside through the engaging structure, with an engaging section provided on the game table, by means of a tensioning member having predetermined elasticity.

13. A method for installing the cloth according to claim 1 on a game surface of a game table, the method comprising the steps of: covering the game surface with the cloth; and engaging the other end of a tensioning member having engaged to one end thereof a plumb bob, to the portion of the rod-shaped member, which portion is exposed to the outside through the engaging structure.