Inflation-Independent Ball with Cover

Abstract

In some aspects, the invention relates to a inflation independent sports ball comprising a foam core 15 and an outer covering 10, wherein the sports ball is selected from the group consisting of a football, a basketball, a volleyball and a soccer ball, wherein the sports ball 5 is devoid of an inflatable air bladder. In other aspects, the invention relates to a sports ball having a diameter and comprising a synthetic leather outer covering 10 at least partially covering a polyurethane foam core 15, wherein the foam core further comprises at least one internal compartment and a cylindrical body spanning at least part of the length of the diameter of the sports ball. In other aspects, the invention relates to a sports ball having an outer covering and a foam core, wherein the foam core 15 is not filled with foam entirely throughout its internal volume, but rather includes space for air.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The invention relates generally to sports balls, such as basketballs, footballs, volleyballs and soccer balls.BACKGROUND ART[0002]Sports balls of the type traditionally inflated (e.g., basketballs, footballs, volleyballs and soccer balls) are well known in the art and are sometimes referred to as “inflatables.” For example, basketballs are generally manufactured to include an inflatable air bladder surrounded by an outer covering of cover panels. Other inflatable sports balls such as volleyballs, soccer balls and footballs also feature the well-known inflatable air bladder (often comprising rubber, such as 80% butyl rubber and 20% natural rubber) and various other outer coverings. One limitation of current inflatable technology is that the inflatable air bladder may lose pressure after a period of time due to air loss, which may occur by seepage from valves, or by migration of the filled air across the air bladder membrane, or otherwise. When pressure los...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a new kind of sports ball that does not have an inflatable air bladder. Instead, it has a foam core and an outer covering made of synthetic leather. The foam core has space for air, and the outer covering is designed to meet the standards set by sports organizations for regulation play. This new design of sports ball offers improved performance and durability without the need for an air bladder.

Problems solved by technology

One limitation of current inflatable technology is that the inflatable air bladder may lose pressure after a period of time due to air loss, which may occur by seepage from valves, or by migration of the filled air across the air bladder membrane, or otherwise.

Any physical damage that pierces the bladder, even small holes or tears may result in loss of pressure and even the inability to be re-pressurized.

Foam balls, such as NERF® brand balls, are also known in the art, but foam balls to date have exhibited substantially different playing characteristics and feel that traditional sports balls, and do not comport with or approximate the standards set by sports organizations for regulation play, such as size, rebound response, weight or other characteristics.

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