CA2634572A1 - Vented shaft for a lacrosse stick - Google Patents
Vented shaft for a lacrosse stick Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2634572A1 CA2634572A1 CA002634572A CA2634572A CA2634572A1 CA 2634572 A1 CA2634572 A1 CA 2634572A1 CA 002634572 A CA002634572 A CA 002634572A CA 2634572 A CA2634572 A CA 2634572A CA 2634572 A1 CA2634572 A1 CA 2634572A1
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- tube
- elongate tube
- shaft according
- wall
- elongate
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B59/00—Bats, rackets, or the like, not covered by groups A63B49/00 - A63B57/00
- A63B59/20—Bats, rackets, or the like, not covered by groups A63B49/00 - A63B57/00 having means, e.g. pockets, netting or adhesive type surfaces, for catching or holding a ball, e.g. for lacrosse or pelota
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/06—Handles
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/06—Handles
- A63B60/08—Handles characterised by the material
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/06—Handles
- A63B60/10—Handles with means for indicating correct holding positions
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
- A63B2102/14—Lacrosse
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2209/00—Characteristics of used materials
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/50—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like with through-holes
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/52—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like with slits
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
- Y10T428/13—Hollow or container type article [e.g., tube, vase, etc.]
- Y10T428/1352—Polymer or resin containing [i.e., natural or synthetic]
- Y10T428/139—Open-ended, self-supporting conduit, cylinder, or tube-type article
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Aiming, Guidance, Guns With A Light Source, Armor, Camouflage, And Targets (AREA)
Abstract
A vented shaft for a lacrosse stick is disclosed herein. The shaft includes an elongate tube having a wall, an external surface, an internal surface, and an inner hollow defined therein. The wall of the tube has a plurality of holes defined therethrough for permitting fluid communication between the inner hollow and the outside of the tube. The elongate tube also has a designated top end for retaining a closed-loop frame with a net suspended in the frame. Configured as such, the vented shaft is lightweight and thus easy for a lacrosse player to wield during a match.
Description
A VENTED SHAFT FOR A LACROSSE STICK
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
"I,he present invention generally relates to lacrosse sticks. The present invention more particularly relates to the elongate sliafts that are incorporated within such lacrosse sticks and manually wielded by participants in the sport of lacrosse.
According to convention, a lacrosse stick basically includes both an elongate handle and a liead. 'The elongate handle, of:ten simply called the "shaft,"
has both a designated top end and a designated bottom end. The head, in turn, is mounted on the designated top end of the elongate handle and includes both a closed-loop franie and a net suspended substantially within the confines of the frame. Together, the closed-loop frarne and the net fon-n an open pocket suited for receiving, holding, and releasing a lacrosse ball.
During play in a lacrosse game or match, a participant generally wields a lacrosse stick- by gripping the lower portion of the elongate handle with one or both hands. In doing so, a participant playing in, for exarnple, an "attack" or "attaclunan"
position is able to scoop up, catch, carry, pass, and make shots on goal with a ball by using the head mounted on the top end of the elongate handle. An opposing participant playing in, for exainple, a "defense" or "defenseman" position commonly engages and closely guards an attackman who has the ball. In doing so, the defenseman vigorously attempts to both intercept the ball and prevent the attackman froni acivancing; the ball upficld and scoring a goal. During such engagement, sharp direct blows and also indirect glancing blows arc frequently inflicted at various points along the leneths of both participants' lacrosse stick handles as the defenseman, for example, stick checks the attackman.
To better enable lacrosse players to be deft in their stick-wielding and ball-lhandling skills, manufacturers of lacrosse sticks conventionally fabricate the elongate handle or shaft of each lacrosse stick from lightweight materials. To even further reduce the weight of lacrosse sticks, manufacturers also typically fabricate each lacrosse stick so that the shaft is generally trollow. In fabricating the shafts of lacrosse sticks in this manner, however, manufacturers niust be careful not to unduly reduce the overall strength and robustness of the shafts. In this way, the sticks are not prematurely bent or broken during lacrosse games wherein sharp direct blows and/or indirect glancittg blows are frequently inflicted along the lengths ol' participants' lacrosse sticks.
Though manufacturers to date have been somewhat successful in iniproving the wieldability of lacrosse sticks, there is still room for improvemerit. In particular, it is desirable to ntake the shafts of lacrosse sticks even ligltter while still largely rriaintaining the overall stretagth and robustness of the sticks. At the same time, it is also desirable to manufacture the shafls so that their overall fortn and surface contours f3cilitate easy gripping and thereby minimize slippage in a player's hands.
In view of the above, there is a present need in the art for an improved lacrosse stick shaft that is lightweight, robust, and easy to grip.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a vented shail for a lacrosse stick. In one embodiment, the shaft includes an elongate tube having a wall, an external surface, an internal surFace, and an inner hollow defined therein. The wall of the elongate tube has a plurality of holes defined therethrough for permitting fluid communication between the inner hollow and the outside of the tube.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
"I,he present invention generally relates to lacrosse sticks. The present invention more particularly relates to the elongate sliafts that are incorporated within such lacrosse sticks and manually wielded by participants in the sport of lacrosse.
According to convention, a lacrosse stick basically includes both an elongate handle and a liead. 'The elongate handle, of:ten simply called the "shaft,"
has both a designated top end and a designated bottom end. The head, in turn, is mounted on the designated top end of the elongate handle and includes both a closed-loop franie and a net suspended substantially within the confines of the frame. Together, the closed-loop frarne and the net fon-n an open pocket suited for receiving, holding, and releasing a lacrosse ball.
During play in a lacrosse game or match, a participant generally wields a lacrosse stick- by gripping the lower portion of the elongate handle with one or both hands. In doing so, a participant playing in, for exarnple, an "attack" or "attaclunan"
position is able to scoop up, catch, carry, pass, and make shots on goal with a ball by using the head mounted on the top end of the elongate handle. An opposing participant playing in, for exainple, a "defense" or "defenseman" position commonly engages and closely guards an attackman who has the ball. In doing so, the defenseman vigorously attempts to both intercept the ball and prevent the attackman froni acivancing; the ball upficld and scoring a goal. During such engagement, sharp direct blows and also indirect glancing blows arc frequently inflicted at various points along the leneths of both participants' lacrosse stick handles as the defenseman, for example, stick checks the attackman.
To better enable lacrosse players to be deft in their stick-wielding and ball-lhandling skills, manufacturers of lacrosse sticks conventionally fabricate the elongate handle or shaft of each lacrosse stick from lightweight materials. To even further reduce the weight of lacrosse sticks, manufacturers also typically fabricate each lacrosse stick so that the shaft is generally trollow. In fabricating the shafts of lacrosse sticks in this manner, however, manufacturers niust be careful not to unduly reduce the overall strength and robustness of the shafts. In this way, the sticks are not prematurely bent or broken during lacrosse games wherein sharp direct blows and/or indirect glancittg blows are frequently inflicted along the lengths ol' participants' lacrosse sticks.
Though manufacturers to date have been somewhat successful in iniproving the wieldability of lacrosse sticks, there is still room for improvemerit. In particular, it is desirable to ntake the shafts of lacrosse sticks even ligltter while still largely rriaintaining the overall stretagth and robustness of the sticks. At the same time, it is also desirable to manufacture the shafls so that their overall fortn and surface contours f3cilitate easy gripping and thereby minimize slippage in a player's hands.
In view of the above, there is a present need in the art for an improved lacrosse stick shaft that is lightweight, robust, and easy to grip.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a vented shail for a lacrosse stick. In one embodiment, the shaft includes an elongate tube having a wall, an external surface, an internal surFace, and an inner hollow defined therein. The wall of the elongate tube has a plurality of holes defined therethrough for permitting fluid communication between the inner hollow and the outside of the tube.
2 In addition, the present invention also provides a lacrosse stick. In one embodiment, the lacrosse stick includes an elongate tubc, a closed-loop framc, and a net. The elongate tube has a wall, an external surface, an intemal surface, and an inner hollow defined therein. The closed-loop frame is retained on a designatcd top end of the elongate tube, and the net is suspended in the frame. The wall of the elongate tube has a plurality of holes defined therethrough for pemiitting fluid communication between the inner hollow and the outside of the tube.
Furthermore, it is believed that various alternative enibodiments of'the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art wlien the detailed clescription of the best niode contemplated for practicing the invention, as set fortli hereinbelow, is reviewed in conjunction with the appended claims and the accompanying drawing figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRANNTNGS
The present invention is described hereinl.)elow, by way of example, with rcf'erence to the following drawing figures.
Figure 1 illustrates a frontal view of a lacrosse stick. In this view, the lacrosse stick is shown to include a vented shaft, a closed-loop frame mounted on the top end of the shaft, and a net suspended within the frame;
Figure 2 illustrates a frontal view of the shaft depicted in Figure 1;
Figure 3 illustrates a side view of'the shaft depicted in Figure 2;
Figure 4 illustrates an offset side view of one section of the shaft depicted in Figure 3. In this view, niultiple holes defined through the wall of the shaft are highlif;hted:
Figure 5 illustrates a sectional view of one of the lioles defined through the wall of the shaft depicted in Figure 4; and
Furthermore, it is believed that various alternative enibodiments of'the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art wlien the detailed clescription of the best niode contemplated for practicing the invention, as set fortli hereinbelow, is reviewed in conjunction with the appended claims and the accompanying drawing figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRANNTNGS
The present invention is described hereinl.)elow, by way of example, with rcf'erence to the following drawing figures.
Figure 1 illustrates a frontal view of a lacrosse stick. In this view, the lacrosse stick is shown to include a vented shaft, a closed-loop frame mounted on the top end of the shaft, and a net suspended within the frame;
Figure 2 illustrates a frontal view of the shaft depicted in Figure 1;
Figure 3 illustrates a side view of'the shaft depicted in Figure 2;
Figure 4 illustrates an offset side view of one section of the shaft depicted in Figure 3. In this view, niultiple holes defined through the wall of the shaft are highlif;hted:
Figure 5 illustrates a sectional view of one of the lioles defined through the wall of the shaft depicted in Figure 4; and
3 Figure 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the shaft depicted in Figure 3.
LIST OF PARTS AND FEATURES
To facilitate an understanding of the present invention, a list of parts and features highlighted with nurneric designations in Figures 1 through 6 is set forth hereiribelow, lacrosse stick 12 shaft (of lacrosse stick) 14 head (of lacrosse stick) 16 closed-loop frame (of head) 18 net (of head) end cap 22 elongate tube (of sha#t) 24 wall (of tube) 26 external surface (of ttibe) 28 internal surface (of tube) inner hollow (of tube) 32 hole(s) (in wall) 34 outside (oftubs;) 36 designated top end (of tube) 38 designated bottom end (of tube) mounting bore (in frame) 42 mounting bore (in tubi) 44 cross section (of tube) 46 periphery (of cross section) 48 peripheral side(s) (of cross section) peripheral edge(s) (of cross section) 52 elongate lateral surface(s) (of tube) 54 recess(es) (in external surface) 56 botto7n(s) (of recess(es)) 58 periphery (of tube) central axis (of tube)
LIST OF PARTS AND FEATURES
To facilitate an understanding of the present invention, a list of parts and features highlighted with nurneric designations in Figures 1 through 6 is set forth hereiribelow, lacrosse stick 12 shaft (of lacrosse stick) 14 head (of lacrosse stick) 16 closed-loop frame (of head) 18 net (of head) end cap 22 elongate tube (of sha#t) 24 wall (of tube) 26 external surface (of ttibe) 28 internal surface (of tube) inner hollow (of tube) 32 hole(s) (in wall) 34 outside (oftubs;) 36 designated top end (of tube) 38 designated bottom end (of tube) mounting bore (in frame) 42 mounting bore (in tubi) 44 cross section (of tube) 46 periphery (of cross section) 48 peripheral side(s) (of cross section) peripheral edge(s) (of cross section) 52 elongate lateral surface(s) (of tube) 54 recess(es) (in external surface) 56 botto7n(s) (of recess(es)) 58 periphery (of tube) central axis (of tube)
4 DETAILED nFSCRIPT'ION OF THE INVENTION
Figure I illustrates a frontal view of a lacrosse stick 10. As shown in this view, the lacrosse stick 10 includes a shaft 12, a head 14, and a end cap or end cap 20. The shaft 12 comprises an elongate tube 22 that has a designated top end 36 and a designated bottom end 38. The designated top end 36 of the tube 22 is structurally adapted for retaining the head 14, and the designated bottoin end 38 is structurally adapted for ret.aining the end cap 20. It will be understood that the top and the bottom cnd preferably have the same configuration. 1'he head 14 itself includes both a closed-loop frame 16 and a net 18. 'fhe frame 16 is mounted and fastened on the top end 36 of the tube 22 via bores 40 and 42, which are respectively defined in the franie 16 and the tube 22. The net 18 is suspended substantially within the confines of the frame 16. The end cap 20 itself is niade of a resilient material, such as rubber or plastic. Coinposed of such, the end cap 20 is tightly fitted over the bottom end 38 of the elongate tube 22 and thereby retained on the tube 22.
Figures 2 through 6 illustrate various views of the shaft 12 depicted in Figure l. As shown in these views, the elongate tube 22 of the shaft 12 is substantially hollc~Nv and open-ended and thus has a wall 24, an external surface 26, an internal surface 28, and an inner hollow 30 defined therein. The wall 24 of the tube 22 has a plurality of holes 32 (i.e. vents) defined therethrough for permitting the communication of fluid (for exainple, air, water, or moisture) between the inner hollow 30 and the outside 34 of the tube 22.
In the embodiinent shown in Figures 2 through 6, the elongate tube 22 has a cross section 44 with a periphery 46 that is substantially octagonal.
Configured as such, the cross section 44 of the tube 22 thus llas eight peripheral sides 48 and a matching ntinaber of eight peripheral edges 50. In other possible embodiments, however, such an elongate tube niay alternatively liave a cross section with a periphery that is shaped as another type of polygon instead of an octagon. In such ot.her embodinients, the polygonal cross section may have an alternative number of peripheral sides and a matching number of peripheral edges with the alternative numbc:r being at least three. In still other possible embodiments, an elongate tube nnay alternatively have a cross section with a periphery that is circular, oval, or elliptical. In general, however, an elongate tube having a cross section with a periphery that is at least partially polygonal is somewhat preferred, for such provides cnultiple lateral surfaces and edges along the lengtli of the tube that facilitatc easy gripping and thereby minimize slippage in a player's hands.
As best shown in Figure 6, the peripheral sides 48 of the cross section 44 of the elongate tube 22 an; somewhat concave. Configured as such, the tube's cross sGction 44 thereby facilitates easy gripping with a player's ftngcrs while also minimizing slippage in a player's hands. As also shown in Figure 6, the peripheral edges 50 of the tube's cross section 44 are somcwhat rounded. Configured as such, the tube's cross section 44 also thereby reduces the possibility of a player's hands becoming blistered while gripping the periphery 58 of the tube 22 during play.
In this way, therefore, the periphery 46 of the tube's cross section 44 is generally rendered as being substantially curvilinear.
As further shown in Figures 2 througli 6, the wall 24 of the elongate tube 22, in addition to having holes 32, also has a plurality of recesses 54 defined in the e,xternal surface 26. In general, having such holes 32 and recesses 54 defined in the wall 24 of the tube 22 serves to reduce the overall weight of the tubt; 22. In addition therctoi, such holes 32 and recesses 54 also faeilitate easy gripping of the tube's periphery 58 with a player's fingers. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2 through 6, the holes 32 are respectively defined through the wall 24 of the tube 22 at the bottoms 56 of the recesses 54. In other possible embodiments, however, the wall of such ari clongate tube may instead have only holes or only recesses defined therein.
In still other possible embodiments, the wall of a tube may have both holes and recesses defined therein that may or may not coincide with each other in terms of location in the tube's wall and/or on the tube's outer periphery. In general, holes andlor recesses niay be selectively defined in the wall of an elongate tube according to desired desigTi goals andfor intended use of a given lacrosse stick.
In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, both the holes 32 and the recesses 54 are generally shaped and oriented so as to be elongated along the central axis 60 (i.e.
length) of the elongate tube 22. Shaped and oricntcd as such, the holes 32 and the recesses 54 help niinimize the total weight of the elongate tube 22 while at the same time not unduly reducing the overall strength and robustness of the tube 22.
In particular, by shaping and orienting the holes 32 and recesses 54 so that they are generally elongated along the tube's axis 60 instead of perpendicular thereto, the likelihood of the tube 22 being easily bent or broken at a point along its axis 60 when struck by another player's stick is thereby ininirnized. In other possible embodiments, however, the holes and/or recesses defined in an elongate tube may altematively be shaped in other forms, depending on desired design goals and/or intended use of the tiube. 5ucli other shapes or fomis may include, for example, circles, ovals, ellipses, polygons, or various combinations thereof.
As shown in Figures 2 through 6, the holes 32 and recesses 54 arc both defined in the wall 24 of the elongate tube 22 so as to generally be spaced apart in a substantially even fashion about the peripltery 58 of the tube 22. In this way, the unintended creation of any inherent weak spots in the elongate tube's structure is largely prevented. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2 though 6, the elongate tubc 22 has a cross section 44 with a polygonal periphery 46 that includes an even number of peripheral sides 48. As a result, the external surface 26 of the tube 22 correspondingly includes an even nuniber of elongate lateral surfaces 52. As best sliown in Figures 2 through 4, the holes 32 and recesses 54 in this embodiment are defined in the wall 24 of the tube 22 so that the holes 32 and recesses 54 are located only in every other elongate lateral surface 52 of the tube 22. By locating the holes 32 and recesses 54 in the lateral surfaces 52 of the tube 22 in this alternating manner, the holes 32 and recesses 54 are thereby spaced apart in a substantially even fashion in the tube's outer peripliery 58, with hole-riddled lateral surfaces 52 interspaced with uniform latct=al surfaces 52. In this configuration, the structurally weaker hole-riddled lateral surfaces 52 are thereby strongly reinforced and structurally sustained by the urtiforni lateral surfaces 52. As a result, the likelihood of the tube 22 being easily bent or broken at a point along its axis 60 when struck is thereby further minimized. In view ol'such, since a tube's elongate lateral surface that is particularly situated on the front of a lacrosse stick typically receives the most blows and "punishment"
during a lacrosse game, it is generally preferable that such an elongate lateral surface be substantially unifotm (i.e., without large holes and recesses). For example, the lacrosse stick 10 shown in Figure 1 is purposely constructed so that the elongate lateral surface 52 on the front of the stick 10 is substantially uniform in structure and is without large holes and recesses.
Moreover, as shown in the embodiment depicted in Figures 2 through 6, the holes 32 and recesses 54 are delined through the wall 24 of the elongate tube 22 so as to generally be spaced apart in a substantially even fashion along the tength of the tube 22. In this embodiment, no more than two of the holes 32 are defined ttirough the wall 24 of the elongate tube 22 at any cross section selected along the Icngth of the tube 22. Such a configuration is generally preferable, for it further helps prevent the unintended creation of any excessively weak spots in the elongate tube's structure.
Furthermore, depending on desired design goals and performance requirenients, it may even be preferable in other embodinients for no more than one hole to be defined through an elongate tube's wall at any cross section selected along the length of the tube.
In the embodiment depicted in Figures 2 through 6, the elongate tube 22 is preferably made of a lightweight material such as, for example, aluminum or an aiuminum alloy. To fabricate the tube 22, an opcn-c.nded elongate tube with an inner hollow and a cross-sectional periphery that is substantially octagonal is initially c;reatec) from an aluminum alloy via, in large part, an extrusion process.
After extrusion, one or more colored paints may optionally be selected and anodized onto the extenial surface of the tube for visual aesthetic purposes. Thereaf3er, the tube may be clamped and held in one or more various positions upon an immobilizing fixture so that hcales and recesses may then be defined into the wall of the tube with a CNC
milling machine. Once niilling is coinpleted, various colored paints and graphics niay be optionally applied to the tube's external surface via one or more conventional processes to further enhance visual aesthetics. Once fabricated in this manner, the tube 22 is then ready to receive both the head 14 and the end cap 20 to thereby complete the lacrosse stick 10.
Furthermore, though the elongate tube 22 in the above-described embodiment is preferably made of lightweight aluminum or an aluminum alloy, such a tube may instead be fabricated from one or more other materials in alternative enibodiments.
Sueh other tnaterials may include, for example, titanium, ma~mesiuni, compositcs, nano-materials or various other suitable materials. Depending on the particular rnaterial(s) utilized to fabricate a particular tube, various alternative andl'or additional manufacturing processes may be necessary. For example, in one or more of such other processes, the holes and recesses defined in the wall of a tube niay instead be pre-formed via one or more molding steps.
In summary, the present invention provides an improved lacrosse stick shaft that is lightweight, robust, and easy to grip.
While the present invention has been described in what is presently considered to be its rnost practical and preferred embodiment or implementation, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed hereinabove. On the contrary, the present mventton is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and sl7:ope of the claims appended hereinbelow, which scope is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures as are permitted under the law.
Figure I illustrates a frontal view of a lacrosse stick 10. As shown in this view, the lacrosse stick 10 includes a shaft 12, a head 14, and a end cap or end cap 20. The shaft 12 comprises an elongate tube 22 that has a designated top end 36 and a designated bottom end 38. The designated top end 36 of the tube 22 is structurally adapted for retaining the head 14, and the designated bottoin end 38 is structurally adapted for ret.aining the end cap 20. It will be understood that the top and the bottom cnd preferably have the same configuration. 1'he head 14 itself includes both a closed-loop frame 16 and a net 18. 'fhe frame 16 is mounted and fastened on the top end 36 of the tube 22 via bores 40 and 42, which are respectively defined in the franie 16 and the tube 22. The net 18 is suspended substantially within the confines of the frame 16. The end cap 20 itself is niade of a resilient material, such as rubber or plastic. Coinposed of such, the end cap 20 is tightly fitted over the bottom end 38 of the elongate tube 22 and thereby retained on the tube 22.
Figures 2 through 6 illustrate various views of the shaft 12 depicted in Figure l. As shown in these views, the elongate tube 22 of the shaft 12 is substantially hollc~Nv and open-ended and thus has a wall 24, an external surface 26, an internal surface 28, and an inner hollow 30 defined therein. The wall 24 of the tube 22 has a plurality of holes 32 (i.e. vents) defined therethrough for permitting the communication of fluid (for exainple, air, water, or moisture) between the inner hollow 30 and the outside 34 of the tube 22.
In the embodiinent shown in Figures 2 through 6, the elongate tube 22 has a cross section 44 with a periphery 46 that is substantially octagonal.
Configured as such, the cross section 44 of the tube 22 thus llas eight peripheral sides 48 and a matching ntinaber of eight peripheral edges 50. In other possible embodiments, however, such an elongate tube niay alternatively liave a cross section with a periphery that is shaped as another type of polygon instead of an octagon. In such ot.her embodinients, the polygonal cross section may have an alternative number of peripheral sides and a matching number of peripheral edges with the alternative numbc:r being at least three. In still other possible embodiments, an elongate tube nnay alternatively have a cross section with a periphery that is circular, oval, or elliptical. In general, however, an elongate tube having a cross section with a periphery that is at least partially polygonal is somewhat preferred, for such provides cnultiple lateral surfaces and edges along the lengtli of the tube that facilitatc easy gripping and thereby minimize slippage in a player's hands.
As best shown in Figure 6, the peripheral sides 48 of the cross section 44 of the elongate tube 22 an; somewhat concave. Configured as such, the tube's cross sGction 44 thereby facilitates easy gripping with a player's ftngcrs while also minimizing slippage in a player's hands. As also shown in Figure 6, the peripheral edges 50 of the tube's cross section 44 are somcwhat rounded. Configured as such, the tube's cross section 44 also thereby reduces the possibility of a player's hands becoming blistered while gripping the periphery 58 of the tube 22 during play.
In this way, therefore, the periphery 46 of the tube's cross section 44 is generally rendered as being substantially curvilinear.
As further shown in Figures 2 througli 6, the wall 24 of the elongate tube 22, in addition to having holes 32, also has a plurality of recesses 54 defined in the e,xternal surface 26. In general, having such holes 32 and recesses 54 defined in the wall 24 of the tube 22 serves to reduce the overall weight of the tubt; 22. In addition therctoi, such holes 32 and recesses 54 also faeilitate easy gripping of the tube's periphery 58 with a player's fingers. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2 through 6, the holes 32 are respectively defined through the wall 24 of the tube 22 at the bottoms 56 of the recesses 54. In other possible embodiments, however, the wall of such ari clongate tube may instead have only holes or only recesses defined therein.
In still other possible embodiments, the wall of a tube may have both holes and recesses defined therein that may or may not coincide with each other in terms of location in the tube's wall and/or on the tube's outer periphery. In general, holes andlor recesses niay be selectively defined in the wall of an elongate tube according to desired desigTi goals andfor intended use of a given lacrosse stick.
In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, both the holes 32 and the recesses 54 are generally shaped and oriented so as to be elongated along the central axis 60 (i.e.
length) of the elongate tube 22. Shaped and oricntcd as such, the holes 32 and the recesses 54 help niinimize the total weight of the elongate tube 22 while at the same time not unduly reducing the overall strength and robustness of the tube 22.
In particular, by shaping and orienting the holes 32 and recesses 54 so that they are generally elongated along the tube's axis 60 instead of perpendicular thereto, the likelihood of the tube 22 being easily bent or broken at a point along its axis 60 when struck by another player's stick is thereby ininirnized. In other possible embodiments, however, the holes and/or recesses defined in an elongate tube may altematively be shaped in other forms, depending on desired design goals and/or intended use of the tiube. 5ucli other shapes or fomis may include, for example, circles, ovals, ellipses, polygons, or various combinations thereof.
As shown in Figures 2 through 6, the holes 32 and recesses 54 arc both defined in the wall 24 of the elongate tube 22 so as to generally be spaced apart in a substantially even fashion about the peripltery 58 of the tube 22. In this way, the unintended creation of any inherent weak spots in the elongate tube's structure is largely prevented. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2 though 6, the elongate tubc 22 has a cross section 44 with a polygonal periphery 46 that includes an even number of peripheral sides 48. As a result, the external surface 26 of the tube 22 correspondingly includes an even nuniber of elongate lateral surfaces 52. As best sliown in Figures 2 through 4, the holes 32 and recesses 54 in this embodiment are defined in the wall 24 of the tube 22 so that the holes 32 and recesses 54 are located only in every other elongate lateral surface 52 of the tube 22. By locating the holes 32 and recesses 54 in the lateral surfaces 52 of the tube 22 in this alternating manner, the holes 32 and recesses 54 are thereby spaced apart in a substantially even fashion in the tube's outer peripliery 58, with hole-riddled lateral surfaces 52 interspaced with uniform latct=al surfaces 52. In this configuration, the structurally weaker hole-riddled lateral surfaces 52 are thereby strongly reinforced and structurally sustained by the urtiforni lateral surfaces 52. As a result, the likelihood of the tube 22 being easily bent or broken at a point along its axis 60 when struck is thereby further minimized. In view ol'such, since a tube's elongate lateral surface that is particularly situated on the front of a lacrosse stick typically receives the most blows and "punishment"
during a lacrosse game, it is generally preferable that such an elongate lateral surface be substantially unifotm (i.e., without large holes and recesses). For example, the lacrosse stick 10 shown in Figure 1 is purposely constructed so that the elongate lateral surface 52 on the front of the stick 10 is substantially uniform in structure and is without large holes and recesses.
Moreover, as shown in the embodiment depicted in Figures 2 through 6, the holes 32 and recesses 54 are delined through the wall 24 of the elongate tube 22 so as to generally be spaced apart in a substantially even fashion along the tength of the tube 22. In this embodiment, no more than two of the holes 32 are defined ttirough the wall 24 of the elongate tube 22 at any cross section selected along the Icngth of the tube 22. Such a configuration is generally preferable, for it further helps prevent the unintended creation of any excessively weak spots in the elongate tube's structure.
Furthermore, depending on desired design goals and performance requirenients, it may even be preferable in other embodinients for no more than one hole to be defined through an elongate tube's wall at any cross section selected along the length of the tube.
In the embodiment depicted in Figures 2 through 6, the elongate tube 22 is preferably made of a lightweight material such as, for example, aluminum or an aiuminum alloy. To fabricate the tube 22, an opcn-c.nded elongate tube with an inner hollow and a cross-sectional periphery that is substantially octagonal is initially c;reatec) from an aluminum alloy via, in large part, an extrusion process.
After extrusion, one or more colored paints may optionally be selected and anodized onto the extenial surface of the tube for visual aesthetic purposes. Thereaf3er, the tube may be clamped and held in one or more various positions upon an immobilizing fixture so that hcales and recesses may then be defined into the wall of the tube with a CNC
milling machine. Once niilling is coinpleted, various colored paints and graphics niay be optionally applied to the tube's external surface via one or more conventional processes to further enhance visual aesthetics. Once fabricated in this manner, the tube 22 is then ready to receive both the head 14 and the end cap 20 to thereby complete the lacrosse stick 10.
Furthermore, though the elongate tube 22 in the above-described embodiment is preferably made of lightweight aluminum or an aluminum alloy, such a tube may instead be fabricated from one or more other materials in alternative enibodiments.
Sueh other tnaterials may include, for example, titanium, ma~mesiuni, compositcs, nano-materials or various other suitable materials. Depending on the particular rnaterial(s) utilized to fabricate a particular tube, various alternative andl'or additional manufacturing processes may be necessary. For example, in one or more of such other processes, the holes and recesses defined in the wall of a tube niay instead be pre-formed via one or more molding steps.
In summary, the present invention provides an improved lacrosse stick shaft that is lightweight, robust, and easy to grip.
While the present invention has been described in what is presently considered to be its rnost practical and preferred embodiment or implementation, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed hereinabove. On the contrary, the present mventton is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and sl7:ope of the claims appended hereinbelow, which scope is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures as are permitted under the law.
Claims (20)
1. A shaft for a lacrosse stick, said shaft comprising:
an elongate tube having a wall, an external surface, an internal surface, and an inner hollow defined therein;
wherein said wall has a plurality of holes defined therethrough for permitting fluid communication between said inner hollow and the outside of said tube.
an elongate tube having a wall, an external surface, an internal surface, and an inner hollow defined therein;
wherein said wall has a plurality of holes defined therethrough for permitting fluid communication between said inner hollow and the outside of said tube.
2. A shaft according to claim 1, wherein said elongate tube comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of aluminum, magnesium, and titanium.
3. A shaft according to claim 1, wherein said elongate tube has open ends,
4. A shaft according to claim 1, wherein said elongate tube has a designated top end that is structurally adapted for retaining a closed-loop frame and a net suspended in said frame.
5. A shaft according to claim 1, wherein said elongate tube has a designated bottom end that is structurally adapted for retaining a end cap.
6. A shaft according to claim 1, wherein said elongate tube has a cross section with a periphery that is substantially polygonal such that said cross section has a number of peripheral sides and a matching number of peripheral edges with said number being at least three.
7. A shaft according to claim 6, wherein at least some of said peripheral sides are concave.
8. A shaft according to claim 6, wherein at least some of said peripheral edges are rounded.
9. A shaft according to claim 6, wherein said number is numerically even.
10. A shaft according to claim 9, wherein said number is numerically equal to eight.
11. A shaft according to claim 9, wherein said external surface of said elongate tube includes a number of elongate lateral surfaces corresponding to said number of peripheral sides of said cross section, and said holes are defined only through every other elongate lateral surface of said number of elongate lateral surfaces.
12. A shaft according to claim 1, wherein no more than two of said holes are defined through said wall at any cross section along the length of said elongate tube.
13. A shaft according to claim 1, wherein said wall of said elongate tube has a plurality of recesses defined in said external surface.
14. A shaft according to claim 13, wherein at least some of said recesses arc spaced apart in a substantially even fashion about the periphery of said elongate tube.
15. A shaft according to claim 13, wherein at least some of said recesses are elongated along the length of said elongate tube.
16. A shaft according to claim 13, wherein at least some of said holes are defined through said wall of said elongate tube at the bottoms of at least some of said recesses.
17. A shaft according to claim 1, wherein at least some of said holes are spaced apart in a substantially even fashion about the periphery of said elongate tube.
18. A shaft according to claim 1, wherein at least some of said holes are elongated along the length of said elongate tube.
19. A lacrosse stick comprising:
an elongate tube having a wall, an external surface, an internal surface, and an inner hollow defined therein;
a closed-loop frame retained on a designated top end of said elongate tube;
and a net suspended in said frame;
wherein said wall has a plurality of holes defined therethrough for permitting fluid communication between said inner hollow and the outside of said tube.
an elongate tube having a wall, an external surface, an internal surface, and an inner hollow defined therein;
a closed-loop frame retained on a designated top end of said elongate tube;
and a net suspended in said frame;
wherein said wall has a plurality of holes defined therethrough for permitting fluid communication between said inner hollow and the outside of said tube.
20. A lacrosse stick according to claim 19, wherein said wall of said elongate tube has a plurality of recesses defined in said external surface, and at least some of said holes are defined through said wall of said tube at the bottoms of at least some of said recesses.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/761,151 US20080305898A1 (en) | 2007-06-11 | 2007-06-11 | Vented shaft for a lacrosse stick |
US11/761,151 | 2007-06-11 |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA2634572A1 true CA2634572A1 (en) | 2008-12-11 |
Family
ID=40096403
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA002634572A Abandoned CA2634572A1 (en) | 2007-06-11 | 2008-06-10 | Vented shaft for a lacrosse stick |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20080305898A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2634572A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8267813B2 (en) * | 2010-03-05 | 2012-09-18 | Reebok International Limited | Lacrosse head and stick |
WO2012024654A1 (en) * | 2010-08-19 | 2012-02-23 | Rotanz Thomas H | Universal weighted lacrosse training handle |
US11969636B1 (en) * | 2023-07-07 | 2024-04-30 | Nicolas Norris | Training device for stick and racket sports |
Family Cites Families (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2120280A (en) * | 1936-06-22 | 1938-06-14 | William B F Hall | Tennis racket and the like |
US2205578A (en) * | 1940-02-07 | 1940-06-25 | Becker & Company P | Bat |
US5397123A (en) * | 1991-01-14 | 1995-03-14 | Huang; Ben | Racquet and grip |
US6752730B1 (en) * | 1999-09-14 | 2004-06-22 | Brine, Inc. | Handle for a lacrosse stick |
US8182375B2 (en) * | 2004-01-08 | 2012-05-22 | Michael Rigoli | Sports equipment stick with truss construction |
US7244200B2 (en) * | 2004-06-23 | 2007-07-17 | Goldberg Harrison G | Lacrosse stick pocket creator |
US7485054B2 (en) * | 2006-06-13 | 2009-02-03 | Michael Rigoli | Two piece sports equipment stick with internal truss construction and vented handle |
-
2007
- 2007-06-11 US US11/761,151 patent/US20080305898A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2008
- 2008-06-10 CA CA002634572A patent/CA2634572A1/en not_active Abandoned
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US20080305898A1 (en) | 2008-12-11 |
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