Soccer goal that is movable and has improved assembly features

Abstract

A movable soccer goal device and, more particularly, a movable goal assembly of tubular construction that presents an upright and inverted U-shaped opening to serve as the goal when assembled for the playing field. This has much improved net retention, safety anchors and counter-balanced design to reduce tip-overs, and a one piece front face to eliminate fasteners and potential injury. It is comprised of a front tubular face and has features to connect with the other assembly parts; two side tube assemblies; a soccer net with special retention features; anchoring; and a rear weighted bar with features to attach to the side tube assembles and the net. The goal device has unique features to improve the functionality of attaching the net as well as safety features for the tubing systems construction and anti-tipping features.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/431,759 filed Jan. 11, 2011 and entitled "Improved soccer goal that is movable and has improved assembly features".

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0002] This invention is a special soccer goal device. The present device relates generally to movable and collapsible goal assemblies, and, more particularly, to a movable goal assembly of tubular construction that presents an upright and inverted U-shaped opening to serve as the goal when assembled for the playing field.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

[0003] None.

SEQUENCE LISTING OR PROGRAM

[0004] None.

BACKGROUND

Field of Invention and Prior Art

[0005] A. Introduction of the Problems Addressed

[0006] The growing popularity of the sport of soccer, as well as other team sports, such as roller hockey and lacrosse, has spurred considerable interest in creating goals that improve upon the traditional version. In the United States, for instance, such games are considered among the fastest growing sports, particularly in regard to youth participation. However, the practice environment for such sports is not ideal.

[0007] The use of a soccer goal with the improvements described herein is not known in the prior art. More specifically, soccer goals with improved net retention, safer interconnects, safer hold down and good anti-tip-over features and systems are heretofore not known to exist. Notwithstanding the myriad of designs encompassed by the crowded prior art which have been developed for the fulfillment of soccer goals, the improvements shown here are unique and novel. Countless soccer goals, new and old, have make-shift ways to improve net retention of the nets and ways to improve the safety of the inter-connect features and net hold downs to the field. It is appropriate to note that duct tape, bailing wire, gravel bags and various stakes currently attempt to do what the present invention accomplishes with this improved concept and design.

[0008] B. Prior Art

[0009] In prior art, disclosures have been made in the field of the soccer goal and related improvements, but they did not show or anticipate the O'Scanaill device. For example, a U.S. Pat. No. 6,383,096 issued in 2002 to Green showed a System and method for soccer net installation. It taught a strong and durable installation system and method that allow soccer nets to be quickly installed and removed from a soccer goal frame. The system can be easily incorporated into new soccer goal frames during manufacture, or retrofitted to existing frames. The system and method use one or more support cords attached to the top and side edges of the soccer net, in addition to a small number of anchoring devices permanently attached to the soccer goal frame in places that minimize player contact but which are easily accessible to those installing or removing the net. It employs an essential wire or cable through open nut fasteners welded to the front and side tubes. It does not anticipate the O'Scanaill device. Another device is shown in a U.S. Pat. No. 6,113,507 issued in 2000 to Padilla which demonstrated a quick-attach net. It is a sports net with an elastic cord element is incorporated in the outer perimeter of the generally rectangular net and the cord constricts the perimeter and forms an expandable opening. The net can be draped over the goal frame and properly aligned with the frame such that it resiliently embraces the insides of the frame members so that the net is releasably secured to the frame. It fails to secure the net as suredly as the O'Scanaill device with its knots internal to the C-section of the net fastener. A third net securement is shown in a U.S. Pat. No. 6,142,892 issued to Dennis in 2000, where traditional cable ties are shown. It lacks the security and quick adding and removal such as shown in the O'Scanaill device.

[0010] Turning to goal anti-tip features and novelty, a U.S. Pat. No. 4,407,507 was issued in 1983 to Caruso. The goal has a pair of stationary posts, and a pair of leg braces pivoted to the upper ends of the posts, one brace for each post. The upper ends of the posts are connected by removably connected cross pieces defining the upper boundary of the goal. A net is wrapped about the posts and braces and supported on the top of the posts is also provided such that the mouth of the goal is defined between the leg braces. Shoes are provided for the bottom of the posts and braces, each shoe having a spike for insertion into the ground to erect the goal. The spikes are one alternative for the O'Scanaill device. The preferred features for O'Scanaill has the counter-weighted member and no spikes alone. Another U.S. Pat. No. 4,116,446 issued in 1978 to Thompson was a Game net support apparatus. It taught an apparatus for supporting different nets for various sporting purposes including inter-engaging tubular rods which are arranged to interconnect and have ground engaging portions suitable to be useful for the several functions. The frame of the net support structure includes a pair of spaced apart, vertically extending posts; each of the posts is divided into a pair of telescoping sections. An upper horizontally extending multi-section member extends and connects the upper end of the vertical posts. A clip is provided to engage the frame support with resilient holding pressure for supporting a net on the frame.

[0011] Other goal devices shown in prior art are goals, such as the one disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,244,213 (issued to Arnell in 1993), which is lightweight and collapsible, yet has a pup-tent-like form and must be staked into the ground to remain sufficiently stationary when hit by a ball. Such goals are unsuitable for play during summer when the ground may be hard. Other goals in the related art, such as the goal shown in the U.S. Pat. No. 5,431,411 (issued 1995 to Padilla), present drawbacks such as fragility at the side post joints due to lack of support from braces that would give the structure a stable triangular profile. Some goals in the related art are too bulky to carry easily, while others include a multitude of complex, costly-to-produce components, or potentially dangerous metal parts, such as wing nuts and bolts and detent-and-notch formations, features that are not easily manipulated by small children. The O'Scanaill device alleviates these shortcomings with the welded, smooth connections and pivotal support stays.

[0012] As far as is known, there is no other special soccer goal device for fully accomplish the objectives and goals of this present device. It is believed that this device is made with fewer parts and with improved configurations and physical features to provide more functionality, when compared to other currently utilized devices or methods, to a superior soccer goal for sporting events. The particular combinations of materials and features are unique and novel. Theses combinations are not anticipated by prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The device herein is a much improved soccer goal device. Improvements in net retention, safety anchors to reduce tip-overs, and a one piece front faces to eliminate fasteners and potential injury points are all featured. The improved soccer goal device is comprised of a front face with top and side tubes that are fastened in a fixed manner and has features to connect with the other assembly parts; two side tube assemblies; a soccer net with special retention features; front ground anchors; and a rear bar with features to attach to the side tube assembles and the net. The simple, tubular device has various unique features to improve the functionality of attaching the net as well as safety features for the tubing systems and the manner of attaching the device to the soccer field. A simple net retainer along the face and side tubes rigorously yet removably holds the net secure. Welded corners eliminate tips of fasteners and loosening of fasteners that may create a safety hazard if not properly maintained. The front ground anchors screw into the ground and lock the side tubes of the front directly to the ground to help shift and lower the center of gravity and thus reducing the likelihood of tipping the device when a player hangs from or bumps the top tube. All of the improved soccer goal device is made of a durable material and configured with simple assembly extension plugs on the front tubes to interlock with the side tubes. Important to note is that the features shown with the soccer goals e.g. improved net retention, safer interconnects, and safer hold down systems, may be used and sold as independent improvements. Also, the same general design with similar components may be used with a goal device that is 7 Ft. by 21 Ft.; 6 Ft. by 12 Ft.; 8 Ft. By 24 Ft.--all provided as examples and not as a limitation.

OBJECTIVES AND ADVANTAGES

[0014] There are several objectives and advantages of the improved soccer goal device. There are currently no known soccer goal devices that are effective at providing the objectives of this invention in a simple and common sense manner.

[0015] The invention presented is an improved soccer goal device. This invention is a combination of improvement to create a special soccer goal device. The present device relates generally to portable and collapsible goal assemblies, and, more particularly, to a movable goal assembly of tubular construction that presents an upright and inverted U-shaped opening to serve as the goal mouth.

[0016] The following TABLE A summarizes various advantages and objectives of the improved soccer goal device. This list is exemplary and not limiting to the many advantages offered by this new device.

TABLE-US-00001 TABLE A Various Benefits, Advantages and Objectives This device: ITEM BENEFIT 1. Has a totally welded front face with a top bar and side bars 2. Is easy to handle and install for organized and weekend events. 3. Requires simple tools for installation. 4. Is simple to manufacture. 5. Has a front set of safety ground anchors to hold the device and lower the center of gravity to reduce possible tip-over. 6. Has a rear back bar hold down and weighted back stays as anti-tipping features. 7. Has a new method to hold the net rigorously and securely to the front faces with a unique "C" member that are elongated tubes with a slot and net stay securement - integral or a discrete piece fastened to bars

[0017] Noteworthy is that other advantages and additional features of the improved soccer goal device will be more apparent from the accompanying drawings and from the full description of the device. For one skilled in the art of soccer goal devices and their accessories, it is readily understood that the features shown in the examples with this device are readily adapted for improvement to other types of mechanisms and devices for use with goals and bet devices.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figures

[0018] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate preferred and alternative embodiments for the special improved soccer goal device. The drawings, together with the summary description given above and a detailed description given below, serve to explain the principles of the improved soccer goal device. It is understood, however, that the device is not limited to only the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

[0019] FIGS. 1 A through C are the general sketches of prototypes of the improved soccer goal device.

[0020] FIGS. A through C are the general sketches of prototypes of the improved soccer goal device with the various components shown and marked.

[0021] FIG. 3 A through C show sketches of other components of the device 30.

[0022] FIGS. 4 A through 4 B show the general sketches of the improved soccer goal device components where the net is installed.

[0023] FIGS. 5 A through 5 E show additional sketches of the safety ground anchors.

[0024] FIGS. 6 A though 6 C show more sketches of the interconnects and the net receiver on the prototype of the preferred embodiment of the improved soccer goal device.

[0025] FIGS. 7 A and 7 B show more of the sketches of the interconnects and the net receiver on the prototype of the preferred embodiment of the improved soccer goal device.

[0026] FIGS. 8 A through 8 D show the sketches of the prototype with the net being assembled to the improved soccer goal device.

[0027] FIGS. 9 A and 9 B show the sketches of installing the net to the framework.

[0028] FIGS. 10 A through 10 D are examples of drawings for making the improved soccer goal device.

[0029] FIGS. 11 A and 11 B are examples of more drawings for making the improved soccer goal device.

[0030] FIGS. 12 A through 12 C are examples of drawings for making and using the improved soccer goal device.

[0031] FIGS. 13 A through 13 E are sketches of the box goal soccer device demonstrating components and features without the net attached.

[0032] FIGS. 14 A through 14 D are sketches of the box goal soccer device with the net attached.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference Numerals

[0033] The following list refers to the drawings:

TABLE-US-00002 TABLE B Reference numbers. Ref # Description 30 General goal device 30A Preferred Box goal 31 Front face structure - round, rectangular (31A) or square cross-sections 32 Top Bar (Round or rectangular) with net stays 33 Essentially vertical Side Bars (Round or rectangular) with net stays 33A Essentially horizontal side bottom bars 34 Net stays - open "C" construction of a tube with a slot external to tube 34A Net stays - open "C" construction of a tube with a slot internal to tube 35 Net stay securement -discrete pieces fastened to bars or integral 35A 36 Tube stubs 37 Fastened corners - Welded or equal 37A Fastening means (gusset and securement means)Front Vertical Sides 33 to Horizontal bottom sides 33A 38 Safety ground anchors - round for round tubes 38A Safety ground anchors - rectangular for rectangular tubes 40 Side tube assemblies 50 Rear securement bar - back stay attachment bar 51 Securement bar means for fastening - "C" loop or equal 52 Front pivoted top stay net securement bar 53 Means to pivotally secure top stay 52 to front top bay 32 53A Pivot arc top stays 52 and top bar 32 at means 53 54 Bottom back bar with counterweights 55 55 Counter weight - weighted matter such as sand or lead or the like internal to the bar 54 [or as known to the art, sacks of liquid or solid placed on top of the bar 54] 58 Back and side at bottom stay net securement bar 59 Means to pivotally secure bottom stay 58 to sides 33A 59A Pivot arc bottom stay 58 and side bar 33 at means 59 60 Soccer net with special fastening means 61 Integral knot in soccer net as fastening means 70 Device parts and assembly drawings 80 Operator/installer 90 Ground/surface Note: for all tubular structures, they may be round tubing, rectangular tubing, square tubing or another structural member - ovular, "I", "W", "L", "C", and "H" structural shapes that accomplished the same function as described herein the specification and shown in the drawings. Note: the same general design with similar components may be used with a goal device that is 7 Ft. by 21 Ft.; 6 Ft. by 12 Ft.; 8 Ft. By 24 Ft. - all as examples and not as a limitation. Note: the net stay system, the ground safety anchors and the welded front face are distinct and may be provided as separate options to a goal device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0034] The present invention presented is the improved soccer goal device. This device relates to a growing need for better means to secure the net, safely interconnect the tubes and structures, and to provide a means for holding the entire net device in place on the field. Specifically, the present device relates to soccer goals and more particularly pertains to a new or revamped goal for providing a secure net, a safe interconnection of the structure (tubes) and a method or means to hold the goal in place on the field. The preferred embodiment of the improved soccer goal device is comprised of a front face with top and side tubes that are fasted in a fixed manner and has features to connect with the other assembly parts; two side tube assemblies; a soccer net with special retention features; front ground anchors; and a rear bar with features to attach to the side tube assembles and the net. This invention is a special soccer goal device. The present device relates generally to portable, collapsible goal assemblies, and, more particularly, to a portable, foldable goal assembly of tubular construction that presents an upright and inverted U-shaped opening to serve as the goal mouth.

[0035] There is shown in FIGS. 1-14 a complete detailed and operative embodiment of the improved soccer goal device, In the drawings and illustrations, one notes well that the FIGS. 1 through 7, FIGS. 10 and 11, and FIGS. 13 and 14 show details of the special configuration. FIG. 8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 12 helps to describe its use and operation.

[0036] The advantages of the improved soccer goal device are listed above in the introduction. Succinctly the benefits for the device are: [0037] This invention is a special soccer goal device. The present device relates generally to portable, folding, collapsible goal assemblies, and, more particularly, to a portable, foldable goal assembly of tubular construction that presents an upright and inverted U-shaped opening to serve as the goal mouth. Totally welded front face with a top bar and side bars; [0038] Is easy to handle and install for the user and the caretaker; [0039] Requires simple tools for installation; [0040] Is simple to manufacture; [0041] Has alternatively a front set of safety ground anchors to hold the device and lower the center of gravity to reduce possible tip-over; [0042] Has a rear back bar hold down and weighted back stays as anti-tipping features; and [0043] Has a new method to hold the net rigorously and securely to the front faces with a unique "C"

[0044] The preferred embodiment of the improved soccer goal device is comprised of a front face with top and side tubes that are fasted in a fixed manner and has features to connect with the other assembly parts; two side tube assemblies; a soccer net with special retention features; front ground anchors; and a rear bar with features to attach to the side tube assembles and the net. This invention is a special soccer goal device. The present device relates generally to portable, folding, goal assemblies, and, more particularly, to a portable, foldable goal assembly of tubular construction that presents an upright and inverted U-shaped opening to serve as the goal mouth. Alternatives embodiments are an improved and movable soccer box goal device made of durable materials and comprised of: (a) top horizontal front bar with features [like with a net stay along the approximate length of the front bar along the net side and means to pivotally connect to at least one top stay]; (b) two essentially vertical side tubes, including an uppermost and lower most end, with features [like with a net stay along the approximate length of each of the side bars along the net side]; (c) means for fastening the front bar with the side tubes at the uppermost end in a fixed manner with features to connect the front face to other assembly parts; (d) two bottom side tube assemblies each with a front end and a back end and each with features [like with a back and side bottom stay net securement bar and means to pivotally connect bottom stay to bottom side tubes] whereby the two bottom side tubes essentially horizontal and placed along a ground surface; (e) a means for fastening the lowermost end of each side tube with the front end of one of the bottom side bar at the front end in a fixed manner; (f) a bottom back bar with features [like with weighted material placed inside of the back bar]; (g) a means for fastening each of the back ends of the bottom side bars with the opposite ends of the bottom back bar in a fixed manner; (h) a soccer net with special retention features; and (i) an optional auxiliary front ground anchors wherein the goal device includes a simple net retainer along the face and side tubes that rigorously yet removably holds the net secure; welded corners to eliminate the tips of fasteners and loosening of fasteners that may create a safety hazard if not properly maintained; and counter weighted back bar and/or auxiliary front ground anchors that screw into the ground and lock the side tubes of the front face directly to the ground to help shift and lower the center of gravity and thus reducing the likelihood of tipping the device when a player hangs from or bumps the top tube.

[0045] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate a preferred embodiment of the improved soccer goal device. The drawings, together with the summary description given above and a detailed description given below, serve to explain the principles of the improved soccer goal device. It is understood, however, that the device is not limited to only the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

[0046] FIGS. 1 A through C are the general sketches of prototypes of the improved soccer goal device 30. Three different sketches of the device are shown.

[0047] FIGS. 2 A through C are the general sketches of prototypes of the improved soccer goal device 30 with the various components shown and marked. Here is shown the device 30 with the front face structure 31. The structure 31 consists of the top bar or rail 32 and two side bars 33. All three, the top 32 and two side bars 33 have the net stays 34 which are long open "C" channels along the net side (opposite the field face). The Figs. also show the side tube assemblies 40 that connect rigidly to the front face assembly 31 inside the tube stubs 36. The net 60 is shown attached to the whole front face by means of the open net says 34. In FIGS. 2 A and 2 C, the means for fastening 37 is demonstrated. Here the means is illustrates as a full weldment. This is for example and not limitation of the device. The manner of stuffing the net 60 into the stays 34 will be explained later.

[0048] FIGS. 3 A through C show sketches of other components of the device 30. Here in FIG. 3 A the typical round tube side bar 33 is shown. In FIG. 3 B the typical round tube top bar 32 is shown. In FIG. 3 C the typical Flat tube top bar 32 is shown. These flat tubes provide a variance of having a flat front face structure 31 as opposed the round tube sections shown in several of the sketches. The scope and spirit of this invention anticipates various bar cross-sections including, but not limited to the round and rectangular tubes shown in the drawings and sketches. FIG. 3 D shows all the current types of tubes in one figure.

[0049] FIGS. 4 A through 4 B show the general sketches of the improved soccer goal device 30 components where the net 60 is installed. Here the net 60 is shown inserted into the open "C" net stays 34 along the front face 31 tubes 32, 33. One may see the net stay securement 35 that is either integral (preferred) to the tubes or separate and fastened, as an alternative method. This net 60 insertion into the net stays 34 is usable with the new device 30. The same concept may be added on as an addition to existing net faces 31 by connecting and fastening an open "C" net stay 34 along the net side of the existing faces 31 and by other means to fasten.

[0050] The durable materials anticipated for these devices is from a large list. The preferred material for the tubular structure and the safety ground anchors is a metal--preferably a light yet durable material. In addition to steel and other alloys, an aluminum structure is anticipated. These metals may have surface finishes and treatments such as being painted, plated or have another finishing such as powder coat and the like. In addition, various composite materials and plastic reinforced materials may be appropriate and still be anticipated within the spirit of the invention. These are shown as examples and not limitations for the materials used.

[0051] FIGS. 5 A through 5 E show additional sketches of the safety ground anchors 38, 38A. These anchors are place into the ground by auguring or screwing them down. Then the vertical side bars 33 are placed over the ground anchor 38, 38A that extends up from the ground. The round safety ground anchors 38 are placed interior to the circular tubes 33. The auger on a flat plate 38A is augured into the ground. Then the anchor 38A is placed interior to the rectangular tube side bars 33. This is further shown in the drawings, below.

[0052] FIGS. 6 A though 6 C show more sketches of the inter connects and the net receiver 34 on the prototype of the preferred embodiment of the improved soccer goal device 30. The net stays 34 that run along the top bar 32 and sidebars 33 are shown without the net 60. Also one may see the special net stay securement (integral to the face structure 31 or individual piece). The tube stubs 36 are also shown integral to the front face 31.

[0053] FIGS. 7 A and 7 B show more of the sketches of the inter-connects and the net receiver 34 on the prototype of the preferred embodiment of the improved soccer goal device 30. These sketches and the components shown have the same description and discussed in the previous paragraph and with FIG. 6.

[0054] FIGS. 8 A through 8 D and FIGS. 9 A and 9 B show the use and installation and are discussed below.

[0055] FIGS. 10 A through 10 D are examples of drawings for making the improved soccer goal device. Here the Front drawing FIG. 10 B for the device 30 are depicted. The front face structure 31 is shown as well as its components--the side bars 33 and the top bar 32. A Cross Section View A-A is shown in FIG. 10 A. Here the tube with the net stay open "C" is shown. This section is appropriate for the top bar 32 and the side bars 33 to show the unique net stay 34. The other FIGS. 10 C and 10 D are top and side views of the front face structure 31.

[0056] FIGS. 11 A and 11 B are examples of more drawings for making the improved soccer goal device. Here the back stay attachment bar 50 is shown with the "C" interconnects that attach the back stay bar 50 to the side rails 40. One notes that the back car 50 is sometimes worked through the net 60 (not shown) by alternating through the strands of net. This is to keep an active ball from rolling through the rear of the goal 30.

[0057] FIGS. 12 A through 12 C are examples of drawings for making and using the improved soccer goal device. This is described under the operation section, below.

[0058] FIGS. 13 A through 13 E are sketches of the alternative box goal soccer device 30A demonstrating components and features without the net attached. In FIG. 13 A is a generally TOP view of the box goal 30A with the top front bar 32 shown with the features of the front pivoted top stays 52 in essentially 3 places (more or less). Each of these top stays 52 are attached to the front bar 32 with a securement means 53 to pivotally attach the stays 52 along the top 32 in the general arc 53A. The fastening means 37A or gusset like member attaches the vertical side bar 33 (hidden) to the bottom side bar 33A (essentially horizontal) preferably by a smooth securement manner 37 such as welds, ground and surface finished) or round headed rivets, acorn nuts and bolts or the like, to ensure rounded or smooth joints (no pinch points or cutting edges). The bars or tubes 32,33,33A,54 may be powder coated, plated or painted (for metals--steel, aluminum, stainless, etc.) or made of a composite corrosion free material. At the opposite end of the front bar 32 and along the ground 90 is the bottom side bars 33A attached essentially at right angles to the bottom back bar 54 with counter weights 55. The side bar 33A and back bar 54 are secured at the corners by a means 37 such as welding or equal as explained above. Interior yet parallel to the bottom side bar 33A and bottom back bar 54 is a back and side bottom net stay 58 that is pivotally secured by a means 59 to the vertical front side bars 33. When needed or desired the bottom net stay 58 can pivot along arc 59A to clear the stay 58 from the ground 90 for mowing, storage when not in use or security. In either position up--vertical or on the ground--horizontal, the bottom stay 58 may be secured by cordage or lockable cables or chains.

[0059] FIG. 13B is the SIDE view and clearly shows the pivot arc 59A and the gusset means 37A as just described. FIGS. 13 C and 13 D show the view from the BACK and FRONT, respectively. Note well the net stays open "C" 34, 34A. These 34, 34A are depicted up close in FIG. 13 E. As well depicted in this close-up is the back bottom bar 54 and counter weights fill 55--such as sand, lead or steel shot--to be a counter weight. The counter weight 55 or some other means (sand bags, water bags etc.) are very significant additions to the modern soccer goals 30A.

[0060] This is a feature and method to counter the tipping of the goal device 30A to prevent injury, or even tragically death. This is required under the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard F2673-08 for tip-resistant movable soccer goals Section 20. This standard commonly known and legislated as Zach's law and mandates that under this Tip-resistant feature, no commercial dealer, manufacturer, importer, distributor, wholesaler, or retailer may manufacture, re-manufacture, retrofit, distribute, sell at wholesale or retail, contract to sell or resell, lease, or sublet, or otherwise place in the stream of commerce, a movable soccer goal that is not tip-resistant.

[0061] The above description along with the description in FIG. 14 regarding the soccer net 60 results in an improved and movable soccer box goal device 30A made of durable materials and comprised of: (a) top horizontal front bar 32 with features [like with a net stay 52 along the approximate length of the front bar along the net side and means 53 to pivotally connect to at least one top stay]; (b) two essentially vertical side tubes, including an uppermost and lower most end, with features [like with a net stay along the approximate length of each of the side bars along the net side]; (c) means 37 for fastening the front bar 32 with the side tubes 33 at the uppermost end in a fixed manner with features to connect the front face to other assembly parts; (d) two bottom side tube assemblies 33A each with a front end and a back end and each with features [like with a back and side bottom stay net securement bar 58 and means 59 to pivotally connect bottom stay to bottom side tubes] whereby the two bottom side tubes essentially horizontal and placed along a ground surface; (e) a means for fastening the lowermost end of each side tube with the front end of one of the bottom side bar at the front end in a fixed manner; (f) a bottom back bar with features [like with weighted material placed inside of the back bar]; (g) a means for fastening each of the back ends of the bottom side bars with the opposite ends of the bottom back bar in a fixed manner; (h) a soccer net with special retention features; and (i) an optional auxiliary front ground anchors wherein the goal device includes a simple net retainer along the face and side tubes that rigorously yet removably holds the net secure; welded corners to eliminate the tips of fasteners and loosening of fasteners that may create a safety hazard if not properly maintained; and counter weighted back bar and/or auxiliary front ground anchors that screw into the ground and lock the side tubes of the front face directly to the ground to help shift and lower the center of gravity and thus reducing the likelihood of tipping the device when a player hangs from or bumps the top tube.

[0062] FIGS. 14 A through 14 D are sketches--from the TOP, SIDE, FRONT and BACK--of the box goal soccer device 30A with the net 60 attached to the structures shown in FIGS. 13 A through 13 D.

[0063] All of the details mentioned here are exemplary and not limiting. Other components specific to describing the improved soccer goal device may be added, as a person having ordinary skill in the field of soccer goals and other sporting equipment devices in the sporting industry well appreciates. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the goal assembly of the present invention and in construction of the goal assembly without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. As an example, various materials of construction may be used for present invention, as long as the materials are lightweight. As another example, various dimensions may be employed for the goal assembly and its components, depending upon the use of the goal assembly (e.g., goal assembly may be larger if used for soccer than if used for hockey). Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims.

Operation of the Preferred Embodiment

[0064] The preferred embodiment of the improved soccer goal device has been described in detail above. The manner of how the device operates is described below. A person having ordinary skill in the field of soccer goals and other sporting equipment and related devices in the sporting industry, will note that the description above and the operation described here must be taken together to fully illustrate the concept of the special device 30.

[0065] FIGS. 8 A through 8 D show the sketches of the prototype unit 30 with the net 60 being assembled to the improved soccer goal device. Here the manners as to how to feed the net 60 through the net stays 34 are shown. The large knots of the net 60 are individually pushed through the slot of the net stay 34. After the net is located across the top rail 32 of the front face 31, then the net 60 is fed down through the net stays 34 on the side rails 33. The net is balanced lengthwise across the top 32 and side 33 bars. Finally, the net 60 is secured to the net securement 35. This net securement 35A may be integrally part of the top bar 32 as shown in FIGS. 8 C and 8 D or an added feature discrete securement 35 as shown in FIGS. 8 A and 8 B. It is important for one to note is that the entire front face design with the net stays open "C" 34 and net securement 35 may be retrofitted to existing goals to gain the much improved net securing for existing soccer goals. The preferred embodiment has the integral securement 35A as part of the top bar 32.

[0066] FIGS. 9 A and 9 B show the sketches of persons 80 installing the net 60 to the face framework 31. This may be done by one or two operators 80. As shown they feed the net 60 into the front face 31 as described in the paragraph directly above [0043] and the one directly following [0045].

[0067] FIGS. 12 A through 12 C are examples of drawings for making and using the improved soccer goal device 30. In the drawings in FIG. 12, the method and steps to install the net 60 onto the front face 31 is demonstrated. FIG. 12 B is a Top View with the top bar 32 and the net stays 34 shown. FIG. 12 A is a View from the backside of the device 30 of the net 60 installed to the front 31 of the top bar 32 and side bars 33 by means of the net 60 stuffed into the open "C" slot of the net stays 34. This is best described in the following Table.

TABLE-US-00003 STEP Description of Action 1 Operator 80 Stands on the front side (field side) of the soccer goal looking towards the back side (net side) of the goal device 30. 2 Feed corner of the net 60 through the slotted pipe of the open "C" net stay 34 on the top face bar 32 going from left to right. 3 When the net 60 is fed through the stay, then turn downward and feed the net 60 through the net stay 34 of the first (right) side bar 33. 4 With the excess net at the opposite end, feed the net through the net stay 34 of the second (left) side bar 33. 5 Balance the length of the net between the side bars 33. 6 Engage the net 60 into the stay securement 35 lock at each end of the top face bar 32. 7 (Optional) Thread the net 60 through the back stay bar 50 8 Attach back stay bar 50 to the side rails 40 by means of the "C" attachment 51.

[0068] The preferred embodiment of the improved soccer goal device 30 may be made in various ways and still be within the spirit and scope of the invention. One may see that the prototype may be stamped/cut from structural pieces or from a formable material, then bent or formed to the desired shape. One skilled in manufacturing devices and products similar to the device 30 has a full appreciation of the plethora of processes and materials that may be used to manufacture the improved soccer goal device 30. As an example and not as a limitation for producing such a device 30, one skilled in manufacturing appreciates that the device 31 may be stamped from metal or a composite and then formed or molded into the desired configuration. The sides and top may be contiguous in sheet form but some joining or means to secure may require a welding (metals, plastic), adhesive (plastic, composites), or a special securing means such as a friction weld (plastic), heat weld, or other fastening means. Similarly, a composited or plastic material might be molded or a metal may be cast. As a further example and not as a limitation the device may be made from a plastic or composite plastic of various types. The net may be of various material such as (for example and not as a limitation) a polyester, poly carbonate, estralon, co-polyesters and the like may be suitable. Equally an hemp and nylon may be used. Metals (such as stainless steel, aluminum, steel alloys, etc.) may be stamped and formed or cast (metals like aluminum, pot metals, etc.) to make many component parts of the device 30. Any or all may have surface finished such as chrome, powdered materials paint and the like. Another material could be molded plastics or composites. Any durable material used of configuration would have rounded/safe edges.

[0069] With the above description or the product device and method to use, it is to be understood that the improved soccer goal device is not to be limited to only the disclosed embodiment. The described features of the special device 31 are intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the description.

Claims

1. An improved and movable soccer goal device comprised of durable materials and (a) Configured with a front face with a top tube and two side tubes, all of the tubes with features; (b) A means for fastening the tubes in a fixed manner with features to connect the front face to other assembly parts; (c) Two side tube assemblies; (d) a soccer net with special retention features; (e) front ground anchors; and (f) a rear bar with features to attach to the side tube assembles and the net. wherein the goal device includes a simple net retainer along the face and side tubes that rigorously yet removably holds the net secure; welded corners to eliminate the tips of fasteners and loosening of fasteners that may create a safety hazard if not properly maintained; and front ground anchors that screw into the ground and lock the side tubes of the front face directly to the ground to help shift and lower the center of gravity and thus reducing the likelihood of tipping the device when a player hangs from or bumps the top tube.

2. The device in claim 1 wherein the structural cross section of the tubular structures is selected from the group consisting of circular; rectangular; square; ovular; "I", "W", "L", "C", and "H" structural shapes.

3. The device according to claim 1 wherein the durable materials for tubular structures anticipated for these devices is selected from the group consisting of metals, aluminum, steel, steel alloy, metals with powder coated finishes, painted metals, plated metals, composite materials and high strength, reinforced plastic materials.

4. The device according to claim 1 wherein the durable materials for the net anticipated for these devices is selected from the group consisting of The net may be of a polyester, poly carbonate, estralon, co-polyesters, hemp and nylon materials.

5. An improved and movable soccer box goal device made of durable materials and comprised of: (a) A top horizontal front bar with features; (b) Two essentially vertical side tubes, each including an uppermost and lower most end, with features; (c) A means for fastening the front bar with the side tubes at the uppermost end in a fixed manner with features to connect the front face to other assembly parts; (d) Two bottom side tube assemblies each with a front end and a back end and each with features whereby the two bottom side tubes essentially horizontal and placed along a ground surface; (e) A means for fastening the lowermost end of each side tube with the front end of one of the bottom side bar at the front end in a fixed manner; (f) A bottom back bar with features; (g) A means for fastening each of the back ends of the bottom side bars with the opposite ends of the bottom back bar in a fixed manner; and (h) a soccer net with special retention features wherein the goal device includes a simple net retainer along the face and side tubes that rigorously yet removably holds the net secure; welded corners to eliminate the tips of fasteners and loosening of fasteners that may create a safety hazard if not properly maintained; and counter weighted back bar reducing the likelihood of tipping the device when a player hangs from or bumps the top tube.

6. The device according to claim 5 including a pair of front ground anchors Wherein the auxiliary front ground anchors that screw into the ground and lock the side tubes of the front face directly to the ground to help shift and lower the center of gravity and thus resist tipping of the device.

7. The device according to claim 5 wherein the features of the top horizontal front bar with features are a net stay along the approximate length of the front bar along a net side and a means to pivotally connect to at least one top stay

8. The device according to claim 5 wherein the features of the vertical side tubes are a net stay along the approximate length of each of the side bars along the net side.

9. The device according to claim 5 wherein the features of the two bottom side tube assemblies are a back and side bottom stay net securement bar and a means to pivotally connect bottom stay to bottom side tubes.

10. The device according to claim 5 wherein the features of the bottom back bar are weighted material placed inside of the back bar.

11. An improved and movable soccer box goal device made of durable materials and comprised of: (a) A top horizontal front bar with a net stay along the approximate length of both the front bar at a net side and means to pivotally connect to at least one top stay; (b) two essentially vertical side tubes, each including an uppermost and lower most end, with a net stay along the approximate length of each of the side bars along the net side; (c) A means for fastening the front bar with the side tubes at the uppermost end in a fixed manner with features to connect the front face to other assembly parts; (d) Two bottom side tube assemblies each with a front end and a back end and each with a back and side bottom stay net securement bar and means to pivotally connect bottom stay to bottom side tubes whereby the two bottom side tubes essentially horizontal and placed along a ground surface; (e) A means for fastening the lowermost end of each side tube with the front end of one of the bottom side bar at the front end in a fixed manner; (f) A bottom back bar with weighted material placed inside of the back bar; (g) A means for fastening each of the back ends of the bottom side bars with the opposite ends of the bottom back bar in a fixed manner; and (h) a soccer net with special retention features wherein the goal device includes a simple net retainer along the face and side tubes that rigorously yet removably holds the net secure; welded corners to eliminate the tips of fasteners and loosening of fasteners that may create a safety hazard if not properly maintained; and counter weighted back bar reducing the likelihood of tipping the device when a player hangs from or bumps the top tube.

12. The device according to claim 11 including a pair of front ground anchors Wherein the auxiliary front ground anchors that screw into the ground and lock the side tubes of the front face directly to the ground to help shift and lower the center of gravity and thus resist tipping of the device.

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