PLAY APPARATUS

The present invention relates to tetherball games, for example the well-known tether tennis game Swingball®. In particular, the present invention relates to tetherball apparatus, e.g. stands for tetherball apparatus.

Tetherball apparatuses are popular, as they allow users to play a ball game in a restricted space without the risk of losing the ball. As well as recreational play, tetherball games can also be used as a training apparatus to develop a user' s hand-eye co-ordination and reflexes. Conveniently, tetherball games can be used by a single player, for individual practice, or two players, optionally in a competitive game.

There are many different types and sizes of tetherball game available, including tether tennis and tether football games.

It is known to provide smaller, less hazardous tetherball apparatuses which are suitable for use by young children, for example children aged three to four years . It is also known to provide larger tetherball apparatuses to be used by older children and/or adults. However, the gameplay of known tetherball apparatuses often may not be sufficiently challenging for advanced players.

Over the years there have been many developments in the field of tetherball games. Much of this innovation has been directed towards improving the stability of the tetherball stand and/or making the apparatus easier to use. For example, it is known to attach the stand to a flat base, which can be placed on any surface, including hard surfaces. It is also known to attach a tail assembly to the ball which stabilises the ball in flight, thereby making the ball easier to hit.

Typically, a tetherball apparatus comprises a ball (e.g. a tennis ball) attached to an end of a cord. The opposite end of the cord is connected to a stand, typically by means of a loop placed around a head of the stand. The cord can become wrapped around the stand during play and may then have to be untangled by the user. This is undesirable, as it interrupts play and prevents the build-up of rallies between players. Typically, the head comprises a helix-shaped channel extending from the top of the head to the bottom of the head, along which the cord moves when the ball is struck. This feature allows competitive game play, as one player can attempt to move the cord to the top of the head, whilst the other player attempts to move the cord to the bottom of the head, by striking the ball in opposite directions. In practice, the cord can often get stuck during use, or it can become disengaged from the helix channel, which can make scoring the game difficult or unfair.

There is a need for an improved tetherball apparatus which addresses some or all of the above problems.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a base for a play apparatus, e.g. a tetherball apparatus, the base comprising a first ground-contacting surface, at least a portion of which contacts the ground at least temporarily during use of the game apparatus, e.g. the tetherball apparatus, wherein at least a portion of the first ground-contacting surface is convexly curved.

By providing a base, in which at least a portion of the first ground-contacting surface is convexly curved, the base may wobble when it is placed on a surface and then disturbed or displaced. The base may be part of a tetherball apparatus, typically comprising the base, a stand and a cord attached at one end to a head of the stand and at its opposite end to a ball. Such an apparatus may wobble, pivot or tilt when the ball is hit in certain directions, and/or when the force with which the user hits the ball exceeds a predetermined threshold, because of at least a portion of the first ground- contacting surface being convexly curved. This should make gameplay harder, as it may be more difficult to judge the trajectory of the ball than with a standard flat-based tetherball stand. Thus, a stand comprising a base of the present invention may be suitable for use by more advanced and/or older players. The base may be suitable for use with game apparatuses other than tetherball apparatuses. For instance, the base may be used with any game apparatus, where providing a base that can wobble could add to a user's enjoyment or increase the difficulty of the game. The base may be adapted to float on water. Hence, for example, a tetherball apparatus may be used to play a tetherball game in the sea, a swimming pool or a paddling pool.

In some embodiments, a portion of the first ground-contacting surface may be substantially flat. Optionally, a central portion of the first ground-contacting surface may be substantially flat. By providing a portion of the first ground-contacting surface that is substantially flat, the stability of the base may be improved. For instance, only relatively strong or advanced users may be able to make the base wobble during play of a tetherball game. Providing a portion of the first ground- contacting surface that is substantially flat may make a tetherball apparatus comprising the base suitable for use by younger or smaller children who may be incapable of reaching the ball if the tetherball apparatus tilts or pivots too far, or those of less advanced abilities (e.g. beginners to the game). The first ground-contacting surface may comprise one or more further convexly curved portions having different degrees of curvature . For example, one section (e.g. a half, a third or a quarter) of the base may be more or less curved than another section or sections of the base. This may for instance allow persons of different abilities to play a tetherball game together. It may also make the tetherball game less predictable and more entertaining.

Optionally, substantially all of the first ground-contacting surface may have a convex curvature. The radius of curvature of the first ground-contacting surface may not be the same across the entire first ground-contacting surface.

The base may be configured to have attached thereto, or may have attached thereto, one or more ground-contacting feet. The ground-contacting feet may be removably attachable to the base . The ground-contacting feet may stabilise the base on a range of surfaces. The ground-contacting feet may be adjustable . The base may comprise one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten ground-contacting feet.

The base may comprise a handle adapted for a user to hold to carry the base . The handle may extend across at least a portion of a recess disposed in the base, e.g. in the first ground-contacting surface. The handle may be curved to match substantially the curvature of the first ground-contacting surface. The base may define an at-least-partially enclosed internal volume comprising one or more internal cavities. The internal cavities may be adapted to store items of equipment for a game such as bats and/or balls . Additionally or alternatively, the internal cavities may be adapted to receive, in use, some ballast to add weight and/or stability to the base. The ballast may comprise a liquid such as water, and/or a solid such as sand and/or stones.

The base may comprise at least one opening to provide access to the internal volume . The opening(s) may be provided with closures. The closures may be opened and securely closed by a user.

The base may comprise a first part and a second part, the first part and the second part being interengagable with each other to close and open the base. The first part and the second part may be configured such that they are rotatable or twistable relative to each other to securely close and/or lock the base and, conversely, to open and/or unlock the base . The first part may comprise the first ground-contacting surface.

The base may comprise one or more side walls and/or a top surface.

The base may be reversible, or invertible, such that the base may be used with the top surface in contact with the ground. Thus, the top surface may provide an alternative ground-contacting surface. The top surface may be flat and/or have a different curvature from the first ground-contacting surface. Accordingly, the difficulty and characteristics of the game, e.g. tetherball game, may be varied depending on which of the first ground-contacting surface and the top surface is in contact with the ground.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the top surface of the base may be substantially flat and/or the top surface may have a lower convex curvature than the bottom surface . This may allow the top surface to be placed in contact with the ground when the stand is to be used by younger or smaller users, or those of less advanced abilities. Optionally, at least a portion of the top surface of the base may be connected to the base by a hinge and/or one or more fasteners. The top surface or portion(s) thereof may then be removed, or pivoted, to allow access to the inside of the base. A second aspect of the invention provides a stand for a tetherball apparatus comprising: a base according to the first aspect of the invention; a pole extending in an upwards direction from the base; and a head located on the pole a distance from the base, the head being adapted to be connected, in use, to a cord with an object, toy or plaything such as a ball attached thereto.

The stand of the present invention may be used in various different tetherball-type games, such as tether tennis, tether football, tether badminton, and/or tether boxing games. In this patent application, the terms tetherball, tetherball game, tetherball apparatus and the like are not intended to be limited to ball games. A ball (of any kind) is just an example of an object, toy or plaything that could be tethered to the apparatus by being attached to a cord. The terms tetherball, tetherball game, tetherball apparatus and the like are convenient for describing the general concept, but should not be construed as limiting the invention to games or apparatuses including, in use, balls.

Optionally, the pole may be removably connected to the base. This may be more convenient for storing and transporting the stand. For instance, the base may comprise a receiving formation for receiving an end of the pole . The end of the pole may be provided with a screw thread to engage with a threaded portion of the receiving formation.

In some embodiments, the pole may be formed of two or more sections which, in use, may be connected together. For example, the pole may comprise two, or three, or more rods which may be screwed, slotted or otherwise joined together to form the pole . Conveniently, the two or more sections may be threaded such that they may be screwed together without the use of any tools or fasteners. Optionally, an end of the pole may comprise a spike . The pole may then be removed from the base and inserted directly into the ground. The spike may be a discrete component that is detachable from the pole . In embodiments, an end of the pole may be in contact with, and/or connected to the bottom surface of the base (i.e. typically the upper side of the first ground-contacting surface). This may make the stand more stable.

Optionally, the pole may be inserted into the base through an aperture.

Optionally, the length of the pole may be adjustable . This may allow the stand to be optimised to the height of the users, and/or the type of game being played. For example, the stand may be at least partially telescopic, and/or one or more portions of the pole may be removable.

The head may be connected to the pole at or near the end distal from the base. Optionally, the head may be removably connected to the pole.

Optionally, the head may comprise a helical channel extending around an outer surface of the head. The helical channel may extend from the top of the head to the bottom of the head. In use, a cord may be looped around the head, such that the loop is able to move along the helical channel when a force is applied to the ball.

In some embodiments, the head may comprise two parallel helical channels. The two channels may be arranged in a double helix. The two helical channels may be spaced apart and in phase (e .g. a double helix channel). The loops or turns of the helices may be disposed alternately around the head (e.g. adjacent turns belong to different helices). In use, a single loop of the cord may be disposed in both helical channels, such that the cord is operable to move along both channels simultaneously when a force is applied to a ball or other object attached to the cord. Advantageously, the provision of two helical channels rather than one has been found to allow the cord to move more smoothly and/or evenly around the head when the ball is hit, as the loop in the cord is more tightly stretched and less prone to slipping from the channels. The number of turns of each helix per unit length of the head may be less than the number of turns per unit length of a head which has only a single helical channel. This may allow the cord to move along the helical channels even more smoothly, as the turns in the helices are more spaced out, thereby further improving game play.

The or each helical channel may comprise at least five turns and/or up to 20 turns. The or each helical channel may comprise up to or at least 10 turns. The or each helical channel may have a pitch (i.e. height of one complete turn of the helix) of at least 1 cm and/or up to 5 cm.

Alternatively, the head may not comprise a helical channel. In some embodiments, the head may be rotatable relative to the pole (i.e. a rotary head). The head may be rotatable in a clockwise and/or an anticlockwise direction. Preferably, the head may be rotatable in both directions (clockwise and anticlockwise) relative to the pole.

In use, the cord to which the ball is attached may be fixed relative to the head. Thus, when the ball is struck, the cord and head may rotate relative to the pole, rather than the cord rotating around the head.

Optionally, a projection or elongate member may be connected to, and extend outwardly from, e.g. substantially radially from, the head. Preferably, the projection may extend radially outwards from the head. In use, the cord may be connected to the projection. For example, the projection may comprise a hole through which the cord may be secured, optionally in a loop or by a knot etc. The projection may advantageously extend the anchor point of the cord away from the pole, which may reduce the risk of the cord becoming wrapped around the pole during use. For example, the rotary head may comprise a bearing mechanism operable to allow the head to rotate relative to the pole. Optionally, the rotary head may include a cover mounted on a carousel. The carousel may be fixed on the pole and may comprise one or more bearings such as ball bearings and/or anti-friction pins. The bearings may allow the cover to smoothly rotate relative to the carousel. Alternatively, the rotary head may comprise two split discs, preferably made of plastic.

The stand may comprise at least one mounting apparatus. The at least one mounting apparatus may be operable to hold or support one or more bats, racquets, other implements for hitting a ball, and/or balls. This may prevent equipment from getting lost when not in use.

The base may be configured to have attached thereto, or may have attached thereto, one or more ground-contacting feet. The ground-contacting feet may be removably attachable to the base . The ground-contacting feet may stabilise the base on a range of surfaces. The ground-contacting feet may be adjustable . The base may comprise one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten ground-contacting feet. The stand may comprise at least one resilient member such as a spring coupled to the pole . The resilient member(s) may be disposed in line with the pole. The or a resilient member may be disposed between the pole and the head mounted thereon. The or a resilient member may be disposed between the pole and the base. The or a resilient member may be disposed at an intermediate point along the pole . The resilient member(s) may be configured to permit at least a portion of the stand to tilt or wobble relative to the base, thereby providing more challenging gameplay.

The stand may comprise a means for recording the score of the game. The means may be disposed on the base, or on the pole, or on the head.

For example, the stand may comprise a dial having two hands, each hand corresponding to one of the players. The dial may have a series of numbers. The users may move the corresponding dial to indicate the number of 'wins' of each player. A 'win' may be defined as moving the cord to which the ball is attached to the top or bottom of the head of the pole . Alternatively, in the case of the rotary head, a 'win' may be defined as a complete (e.g. 360 degree) rotation of the head either clockwise or anticlockwise. Thus, in embodiments comprising the rotary head, a competitive game may still be played. Alternatively, an electronic score keeper may be provided on the stand. For example, a digital display may be disposed on the stand, e.g. on the base, the pole or the head. The users may be able to press a button each time they 'win', which may adjust the score displayed on the device.

Optionally, the digital display may be in communication with one or more sensors. The one or more sensors may be able to detect when a 'win' condition has been reached and may forward this information to the display which automatically adjusts the score . The sensor may be wirelessly connected to the display.

For example, the head of the pole may comprise a first sensor at the top of the head, and a second sensor at the bottom of the head. Optionally, the first and second sensors may be position and/or optical sensors. The first and second sensors may be operable to detect when the cord reaches the top and bottom of the head respectively.

Alternatively, the head of the pole may comprise one or more rotation counters. The rotation counters may be operable to measure the number of complete rotations of the head in the clockwise and/or anticlockwise direction. This information may then be displayed on a score keeper (e.g. digital display device).

In a third aspect of the invention there is provided a stand for a tetherball apparatus, the stand comprising:

a pole; and

a head connected to the pole, the head being adapted to be connected, in use, to a cord with an object, toy or plaything such as a ball attached thereto, wherein the head is rotatable relative to the pole.

The provision of a head (a rotary head) that is rotatable relative to the pole (i.e . rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the pole) may overcome many of the problems associated with known heads comprising a helical channel. In particular, game play may be much smoother, as there is no risk of the cord getting stuck or disengaging from a helical channel. The rotation of the head relative to the pole may be generally much smoother than the rotation of the cord around the head in a conventional tetherball apparatus. The head may be located at or near an end of the pole .

An end of the pole (e.g. the end of the pole furthest from the head) may comprise a spike which is insertable into the ground. The stand may therefore be suitable for use on 'soft' ground, such as grass, soil, sand, bark or gravel, etc. The spike may be detachable from the pole.

In some embodiments, the stand may comprise a base from which the pole extends in an upwards direction.

Optionally, the base may be flat. Alternatively, the base may be at least partially curved in accordance with any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention.

Preferably, the head may be operable to rotate in a clockwise and anticlockwise direction relative to the pole.

In use, a cord with a ball attached thereto, e.g. suspended therefrom, may be connected to the head in a fixed position relative to the head. Thus, when a force is applied to the ball, the cord and head may rotate relative to the pole, rather than the cord rotating around the head.

Optionally, a projection or elongate member may be connected to, and extend outwardly from, the head. Preferably, the projection may extend radially outwards from the head.

In use, the cord may be connected to the projection. For example, the projection may comprise a hole through which the cord may be looped. The projection may advantageously extend the anchor point of the cord away from the pole, which may reduce the risk of the cord becoming wrapped around the pole during use.

In some embodiments, the rotary head may comprise a bearing mechanism operable to allow the head to rotate relative to the pole. Optionally, the rotary head may include a cover mounted on a carousel. The carousel may be fixed on the pole and may comprise one or more bearings such as ball bearings and/or anti-friction pins. The bearings may allow the cover to smoothly rotate relative to the carousel. Alternatively, the rotary head may comprise two split rings, preferably made of plastic. Any features of the second aspect of the invention, except those related to the helical head or double-helix head, may apply equally to the third aspect of the invention.

In a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a stand for a tetherball apparatus, the stand comprising:

a pole; and

a head connected to the pole, the head being adapted to be connected, in use, to a cord with an object, toy or plaything such as a ball attached thereto, wherein the head comprises two parallel helical channels arranged in a double helix extending around an outer surface of the head.

The two helical channels may be spaced apart and in phase. The loops or turns of the helices may be disposed alternately around the head (e.g. adjacent turns belong to different helices). The helical channels may extend from the top of the head to the bottom of the head.

In use, a cord with a ball attached thereto, e.g. suspended, therefrom may be secured or looped around the head. A single loop of the cord may be disposed in both helical channels, such that the cord can move, in use, along both channels simultaneously when a force is applied to the ball.

Providing a double helix (i.e. two helical channels rather than one) may allow the cord to move more smoothly and/or evenly around the head when the ball is hit. This may be because the loop in the cord is more tightly stretched and less prone to slipping from the channels.

The number of turns of each helix per unit length of the head may be less than the number of turns per unit length of a head that has only a single helical channel. This may allow the cord to move along the helical channels even more smoothly, as the turns in the helices are more spaced out, thereby further improving gameplay.

The helical channels may each comprise at least five turns and/or up to 20 turns . The helical channels may each comprise up to or at least 10 turns.

The helical channels may each have a pitch (i.e . height of one complete turn of the helix) of at least 1 cm and/or up to 5 cm. The head may be located at or near an end of the pole .

An end of the pole (e.g. the end of the pole furthest from the head) may comprise a spike which is insertable into the ground. The stand may therefore be suitable for use on ' soft' ground, such as grass, soil, sand, bark or gravel, etc. The spike may be detachable from the pole.

In some embodiments, the stand may comprise a base from which the pole extends in an upwards direction. Optionally, the base may be flat. Alternatively, the base may be at least partially curved in accordance with any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention.

Any features of the second aspect of the invention, except those related to the rotary head, may apply equally to the fourth aspect of the invention.

In a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tetherball apparatus comprising: a stand according to any embodiment of the second, third or fourth aspects of the invention; and a cord having an object, e.g. a toy or plaything such as a ball, attached thereto, the cord being attached to the head such that the cord can rotate or move relative to the pole when a force is applied to the object.

The object may comprise, or consist essentially of, a ball. The ball may be one or more of: a tennis ball; a ping-pong ball; a sponge ball; a rubber ball; a squash ball; a football (e.g. leather or plastic); a rugby ball; a basketball; a netball; a volleyball; a softball; a baseball; a golf ball; a wind ball; an air flow ball; or a cricket ball. The object may comprise a shuttlecock.

The object may comprise a tail assembly.

Optionally, the object may be removable from the cord.

The cord may be secured around or to the head. The head may comprise one or two helical channels. Alternatively, the head may be a rotary head. Optionally, the head may be removable from the pole such that, for example, a different type of head can be used for different types of games or users. This may improve the versatility of the stand.

The length of the cord may be adjustable . Optionally, the cord may comprise a rope . The cord may be made of one or more natural and/or synthetic materials including, for example: natural materials such as hemp, cotton, jute; and/or synthetic materials such as polypropylene, Nylon®, polyesters, polyethylene, aramids and acrylics.

In some embodiments, the apparatus may comprise one or more stabilising members. The stabilising member(s) may be coupled to and/or at least partially surround at least a portion of the cord. The stabilising member(s) may act to reduce the risk of, or prevent, the cord wrapping around the pole during use of the apparatus, by locally increasing the effective rigidity of the cord. The stabilising member(s) may be more rigid than the cord. Optionally, a single stabilising member may extend along substantially the entire length of the cord.

In some embodiments, the stabilising member may be too rigid to be wrapped around the pole during normal use of the apparatus.

The stabilising member may comprise an arm or splint connected to at least a portion of the cord. For example, the cord may be threaded through the stabilising member.

Optionally, the stabilising member(s) may comprise a sleeve or cover surrounding, or partially surrounding, at least a portion of the cord. In some embodiments, the stabilising member(s) may comprise one or more coils of material which are fitted over at least a portion of the cord. The one or more coils may for example form a double helix around at least a portion of the cord.

The stabilising member(s) may have some flexibility which allows the cord to bend to some degree . In some embodiments, the stabilising member(s) may be made of a plastic material. Optionally, wherein the head is a rotary head, the stabilising member may be connected to the head, or to a projection extending from the head.

The head may comprise a lateral projection extending in a direction away from the longitudinal axis of the pole . The cord may be connected or connectable directly or indirectly (e.g. via a mechanical linkage) to the lateral projection. The cord may be releasably connected or connectable to the lateral projection.

Optionally, when the apparatus is not in use (i.e . the ball is at rest), the apparatus may be configured such that the cord does not extend, at least initially, at an angle of more than 45 degrees to the pole. The position of the cord when at rest will depend at least in part on the rigidity, length and position on the cord of the stabilising member(s).

Optionally, the apparatus may include at least one bat, racquet, or other implement for hitting the object, e.g. ball. In some embodiments, the at least one bat, racquet, or other implement may be designed to fit inside the base, and/or to a mounting apparatus disposed on the stand.

In a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tetherball apparatus comprising:

a stand comprising a pole and a head located on the pole;

a cord having an object, e .g. a toy or plaything such as a ball, attached thereto, the cord being attached to the head such that the cord can rotate or move relative to the pole when a force is applied to the object; and at least one stabilising member coupled to, e.g. at least partially surrounding, at least a portion of the cord, wherein the stabilising member(s) reduce the risk of, or prevent, the cord wrapping around the pole during use of the apparatus. The stand may be a known tetherball stand. Optionally, the stand may be as described in any embodiment of the second, third or fourth aspects of the invention.

The head may be located at or near an end of the pole . An end of the pole (e.g. the end of the pole furthest from the head) may comprise a spike which is insertable into the ground. The stand may therefore be suitable for use on 'soft' ground, such as grass, soil, sand, bark or gravel, etc. The spike may be detachable from the pole. The stabilising member may be in accordance with any example given in the fifth aspect of the invention.

In a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tetherball apparatus comprising:

a stand comprising a pole and a head located on the pole, the head comprising a lateral projection extending in a direction away from the longitudinal axis of the pole; and

a cord having an object, e .g. a toy or plaything such as a ball, attached thereto, the cord being connected or connectable, directly or indirectly, to the lateral projection such that the cord can rotate or move relative to the pole when a force is applied to the object with a reduced or minimised risk of the cord wrapping around the pole during use of the apparatus.

The cord may be connected or connectable to the lateral projection via a mechanical linkage. The cord may be releasably connected or connectable to the lateral projection.

The stand may be a known tetherball stand. Optionally, the stand may be as described in any embodiment of the second, third or fourth aspects of the invention. The head may be located at or near an end of the pole . An end of the pole (e.g. the end of the pole furthest from the head) may comprise a spike which is insertable into the ground. The stand may therefore be suitable for use on 'soft' ground, such as grass, soil, sand, bark or gravel, etc. The spike may be detachable from the pole.

The base of the first aspect of the invention, the stand of the second aspect of the invention, the stand of the third aspect of the invention, the stand of the fourth aspect of the invention, the tetherball apparatus of the fifth aspect of the invention, the tetherball apparatus of the sixth aspect of the invention and/or the tetherball apparatus of the seventh aspect of the invention may be provided as a kit of parts.

The kit of parts may include instructions for assembly. Optionally, the kit of parts may comprise more than one head configured to be removably attached to the first end of the pole. In some embodiments, the kit may comprise more than one type of head. For example, the kit of parts may comprise any two or more of: a rotary head; a head with one helical channel; and a head with two helical channels arranged as a double helix.

Optionally, the kit of parts may include at least one bat, racquet, or other implement for hitting the ball. In some embodiments, the at least one bat, racquet, or other implement may be designed to fit inside the base . In some embodiments, the base may be formed of more than one part which must be assembled prior to use.

In some embodiments, the kit of parts may comprise a set of cricket wickets which may be connected to the base when the pole is removed. The kit of parts may comprise a netball goal and/or a basketball goal which may be connected to the pole, e.g. when the head of the pole is removed.

In some embodiments, the kit of parts may comprise two or more poles which may be received in the base. The two or more poles may be of different lengths. At least one of the poles may be attached to a netball goal and/or a basketball goal. Optionally, the kit of parts may comprise more than one cord. The two or more cords may be of different lengths, and/or made of different materials, and/or may have different objects, e .g. types of balls, attached thereto.

In some embodiments, the kit of parts may comprise a plurality of objects, toys or playthings, e.g. balls. Optionally, at least two of the balls may be suspended from the at least one cord. One or more of the objects may not be configured to be attached to a cord.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure la shows a tetherball apparatus according to the invention;

Figure lb shows another embodiment of a head of a tetherball apparatus according to the invention;

Figure 2a shows a back view of a base of a tetherball stand according to the invention;

Figure 2b shows a cross-section through the base of Figure 2a;

Figure 3a shows a perspective view of a rotary head according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 3b shows an exploded view of Figure 3a, allowing the rotary mechanism to be seen; Figure 4a shows an example of a tetherball apparatus of the present invention, with the base in a first position;

Figure 4b shows the apparatus of Figure 4a with the base inverted or reversed into a second position; Figure 5 shows another example of a tetherball apparatus according to the present invention;

Figure 6 shows another example of a tetherball apparatus according to the invention;

Figure 7 shows the tetherball apparatus of Figure 7 with feet attached to the base; Figure 8 shows the underside of the base of the tetherball apparatus shown in

Figure 7; and

Figure 9 shows the lid and the bottom portion of the base of the tetherball apparatus shown in Figure 7.

Figure 1 shows a tetherball apparatus 100, specifically a tether tennis game. The apparatus 100 includes a stand comprising a pole 10 and a base 12. The pole 10 comprises a first end and a second end. A head 16 is coupled to the first end of the pole 10. The second end of the pole 10 is received in the base 12.

The pole 10 is formed of four sections 10a, 10b, 10c, l Od which are interlocked at portions 1 1. The ends of each section 10a, 10b, 10c and l Od may be threaded such that the sections can be screwed together at portions 1 1 without the use of any tools. The height of the pole 10 may be adjusted by removing one or more of the sections 10a, 10b, 10c, l Od.

In other embodiments, the pole 10 may comprise more, or fewer, than four sections. For example, the pole 10 may be a single continuous structure. The base 12 comprises a bottom surface 13 and a top surface 14. In this example, the base 12 is hollow. In some examples, the base may comprise at least one internal cavity. In other examples, the base may be solid. The bottom surface 13 has a convex curvature and is intended to be placed in contact with the ground. The top surface 14 comprises a hole through which the second end of the pole 10 is inserted. The top surface 14 may be permanently or removably attached to the bottom surface 13. As shown in Figure la, the top surface comprises a removable or pivotable cap 15 which covers a hole in the top surface 14. The hole may be used to fill or partially fill the base 12 with a fluid, such as water, and/or a solid, such as sand or stones. The fluid and/or the solid may act as a ballast and may make the apparatus 100 more stable.

In this example, the head 16 is a rotary head which is configured to rotate clockwise and anticlockwise relative to the pole 10. A projection 18 is connected to the head 16. A cord 20 is attached to the projection 18 and/or the head 16. For instance, the cord 20 may pass along, e.g. within, the length of the projection to the head 16. A tennis ball 30 is attached to the other end of the cord 20. In other embodiments, a different object, in particular at least one toy or plaything such as a ball of a type other than a tennis ball may be attached to the cord 20.

Preferably, the projection 18 is substantially rigid and substantially inflexible. The projection 18 extends the anchor point of the cord 20 away from the pole 10, thereby reducing or preventing the risk of the cord 20 wrapping around the pole 10 during use of the apparatus 100.

Figure lb shows another example of a head of a tetherball apparatus according to the invention. Like features are indicated using the same numerals as in Figure la, but with a prime. As shown, a cord 20' is inserted through a hole in a projection 18 ' and a loop 22 of the cord is secured with a fastener 24. Preferably, the fastener 24 may be adjustable, so that the length of the cord 20' can be adjusted.

In Figure lb, there is a gap between the first end of a pole 10' and the top of the rotary head 16'. A cap 17 connected to the first end of the pole 10'. The cap 17 prevents the end of the pole 10' from being exposed, in use. The cap 17 may be removable . Figures 2a and 2b show an example of a base 12" of the tetherball stand in more detail. A ground-contacting surface of the base 12" has a central flat portion 19 and a convexly curved portion 13 ".

The central flat portion 19 may make a tetherball apparatus comprising the base 12" easier to use for younger children, or those of less advanced abilities. This is because the base 12" will pivot or tip less readily than, for example, the base shown in Figure 1 , in which the bottom surface 13 is convexly curved across substantially its full extent. Thus, the base in Figures 2a and 2b would require a ball attached to a tetherball apparatus to be hit with more force, in order to tip or pivot the base 12" than the base 12 in Figure la.

In Figure 2a, the top surface 14" of the base 12" is attached to the ground-contacting surface by a hinge 32. When the base 12" is not in use, the top surface 14" can be pivoted open to gain access to the interior of the base 12". For example, the base 12" can be used to store bats or other equipment for a tetherball game.

As shown in Figure 2b, a receiving formation 34b is disposed on the inner surface of the flat portion 19, into which receiving formation 34b the pole 10" is inserted. A second receiving formation 34a is disposed in a hole in the top surface 14 through which the pole 10" is inserted. Accordingly, the pole 10" may be secured in the base 12". Figure 3a shows a rotary head 16". The rotary head 16" comprises a connecting tube 36 which is sized to be inserted in or mounted on a pole for a tetherball apparatus.

A cover 35 is configured to rotate relative to the connecting tube 36 about a longitudinal axis of the connecting tube 36. A substantially rigid projection 18" is fixedly attached to the cover 35. The projection 18" extends radially outwards from the cover 35. For example, the projection 18" may be attached to the cover by a snap fit arrangement.

The free end of the projection 18" has a through hole 3 1. The through hole 3 1 is vertically oriented and facilitates connection, in use, of a cord to the projection 18 ". For example, the cord may be looped through the through hole 3 1. It will be appreciated that the through hole need not be vertically oriented; it may have any orientation. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that a through hole is merely an example of a suitable feature for connecting, in use, the cord to the projection 18 ".

A cap 37 is attached to the top of the cover 35. The cap 37 may be purely decorative. In other embodiments, no cap is provided.

Figure 3b shows the mechanism which allows the cover 35 to rotate relative to the connecting tube 36. A carousel 38 is fixedly attached to the tube 36. The cover 35 is mounted on the carousel 38, such that, in use, the cover 35 surrounds the carousel 38.

The carousel 38 has an outward-facing, substantially vertical bearing surface 39. At intervals around the bearing surface 39 there are located a plurality of recesses 41b. An anti-friction pin 41a is received into each recess 41b.

The cover 35 is placed over the carousel 38 and surrounds the bearing surface 39. An inward-facing surface of the cover 38 contacts the anti-friction pins 41a, which are free to roll in the recesses 41b, thereby allowing the cover 35 to rotate in a clockwise and anticlockwise direction relative to the carousel 38.

A connecting pin 40 attaches the cap 37 to the carousel 38.

In Figure 3b there are eight recesses 41b and eight anti-friction pins 41 a. In other embodiments, ball-bearings or other forms of bearings may be employed instead of anti-friction pins. In other embodiments, the carousel may comprise more or fewer than eight recesses for receiving bearings.

Figures 4a and 4b show another example of a tetherball apparatus 100' of the present invention. The apparatus 100' may be substantially the same as the apparatus 100 shown in Figure la, except that a base 42 is reversible (or invertible) such that either surface 43, 44 may be placed, in use, in contact with the ground. In Figure 4a, a curved surface 43 of the base 42 is in contact with the ground and a pole 10"' is inserted through an aperture in a flat surface 44 of the base 42. In use, the apparatus will therefore pivot and tip when a force is applied to the ball 30"'. In Figure 4b, the pole 10"' has been removed from the base 42 and the base 42 has been flipped upside down (compared with the set-up in Figure 4a). Thus, the flat surface 44 is now in contact with the ground and the pole 10"' is inserted through an aperture in the curved surface 43 of the base 42. In some embodiments, both surfaces 43 and 44 of the base 42 may be curved. For example, the surfaces 43, 44 may have different degrees of curvature. One or both of surfaces 43, 44 may have a flat portion, e .g. a central flat portion as in Figures 2a, 2b.

Connected to the top of the pole 10"' is a rotary head 16". The rotary head 16" is operable to rotate in a clockwise direction and an anticlockwise direction about a longitudinal axis of the pole 10"'. A projection 18"' extends radially outwards from the rotary head 16". A cord 20"' is attached to the projection 18 "'. A ball, e.g. a tennis ball, 30"' is attached to the distal end of the cord 20"' from the projection 18 "'. In Figures 4a and 4b a portion of the cord 20"' passes through, and is attached to, an elongate stabilising member 45. The elongate stabilising member 45 effectively increases the local rigidity of the cord 20"', which helps to prevent, or reduce the risk of, the cord 20"' becoming wrapped around the pole 10"' when a force is applied to the ball 30"'.

In this example, the elongate stabilising member 45 has the form of a sleeve, but in other examples it may have another form, e.g. it may comprise an arm (e.g. splint) or one or more coils. It will be appreciated that a range of forms of stabilising member may be employed, which achieve the technical functionality of effectively increasing the local rigidity of the cord 20"'.

The stabilising member 45 may extend along the entire length of the cord 20"' (e.g. from the ball 30"' to the projection 18"' or the head 16"), or just along a portion of the cord 20"'. The stabilising member 45 may be formed of plastic, or any other material which is substantially rigid and inflexible relative to the cord. Ideally, the stabilising member 45 is not too heavy relative to the cord 20"', or else gameplay and enjoyment could be impaired.

Figure 5 shows another tetherball apparatus 200 according to the present invention. The apparatus includes a stand comprising a pole 110 and a base 112. The pole 110 comprises a first end and a second end. The second end of the pole 110 is received in the base 112.

As in Figure la, the pole 110 is formed of four sections 110a, 110b, 110c, HOd screwed together at portions 111.

The base 112 of the stand comprises a bottom surface 113 and a top surface 114. The second end of the pole is inserted through an aperture in the top surface 114.

A top portion of the base 112 is connected to a bottom portion of the base 112 by at least one hinge (not shown). Two clip fasteners 133 secure the top portion to the bottom portion. When the apparatus is not in use, the pole 110 may be removed from the base 112 and the base 112 may be transported using the carry handle 136. The base 112 may provide storage for one or more of the other parts of the apparatus (e.g. the pole 110, head 116, cord 120 and/or ball 130) and/or at least one bat or other piece of equipment equipment for use with the apparatus. A head 116 is attached to the first end of the pole 110, the head 116 comprising a top cap 117 and a bottom cap 115. In this embodiment, between the top cap 117 and the bottom cap 115, the head 116 comprises two helical channels 118, 119 extending longitudinally around the outer surface of the head 116. The helical channels 118, 119 are parallel and interwoven to form a double helix. Adjacent turns around the head 116 belong to different helical channels 118, 119.

A loop 122 in a cord 120 is passed around the head 116 and disposed in both of the channels 118, 119. The loop 122 is secured by a fastener 124, preferably an adjustable fastener. A ball 130 is attached to the free end of the cord 120. Optionally, the ball 130 may be a sponge, rubber or plastic ball, or a tennis ball. A stabilising sleeve 145 surounds a portion of the cord 120 adjacent to the ball 130.

When a force is applied to the ball 130, the cord 120 and the ball 130 swing or rotate around the pole 110. The loop 122 is displaced along both of the channels 118, 119 as the cord moves around the pole 110. The apparatus 200 may be used for competitive game play. A first player may attempt to hit the ball 130 in a first direction to move the loop 122 towards the bottom cap 115. A second player may attempt to hit the ball 130 in a second direction opposite to the first direction to move the loop 122 towards to top cap 117. A player may 'win' when the loop 122 comes into contact with the bottom cap 115 or top cap 117 respectively.

Figure 6 shows a tetherball apparatus 300, specifically a tether tennis game The apparatus 300 includes a stand compising a pole 310 and a base 312. The pole 310 comprises a first end and a second end. A head 316 is coupled to the first end of the pole 310. The second end of the pole 310 is received in the base 312.

The pole 310 is formed of four sections 310a, 310b, 310c, 310d which are interlocked at portions 311. The ends of each section 310a, 310b, 310c and 31 Od may be threaded such that the sections can be screwed together at portions 311 without the use of any tools. The height of the pole 310 may be adjusted by removing one or more of the sections 310a, 310b, 310c, 310d.

In other embodiments, the pole 310 may comprise more, or fewer, than four sections. For example, the pole 310 may be a single continuous structure.

The base 312 is generally dome-shaped. The base 312 comprises a first part 317 comprising a bottom surface 313, which has a convex curvature and is intended to be placed in contact with the ground. The base 312 is hollow. The base 312 further comprises a second part 314. The second part 314 is generally flat in form and is releasably connectable to the first part 317. Thus, the second part 314 provides a lid that can be removed to allow access to the internal volume of the first part 3 17 of the base 3 12. Accordingly, the base 3 12 may be filled or partially filled with a fluid, e.g. water, and/or a solid, e.g. sand or stones. The fluid and/or the solid may act as a ballast and may make the apparatus 300 more stable. Alternatively or additionally, the base 3 12 may be used to store the parts of the apparatus 300 when it is disassembled. Thus, the apparatus 300 may be readily stored and transported.

The second part 3 14 acts as a lid for the base 3 12. The second part comprises an annular portion 3 15 disposed around an outer region of its upper surface. The annular portion 3 15 may be provided with a textured surface, e.g. a roughened surface, protrusions or indentations, to assist a user in gripping the second part 3 14 when fitting it to the first part 3 17 or removing it from the first part 3 17. Additionally or alternatively, the annular portion 3 15 may be provided with indicia, which may assist the user in fitting the second part 3 14 to the first part 3 17 or removing the second part 3 14 from the first part 3 17. In embodiments, the second part 3 14 may interengage with the first part 3 17 by a twist and lock mechanism.

In this example, the head 3 16 is a rotary head, which is configured to rotate clockwise and anticlockwise relative to the longitudinal axis of the pole 3 10. The head 3 16 may comprise a self-lubricating plastic such as polypropylene to minimise friction as the head 3 16 rotates relative to the pole 3 10.

The head 3 16 comprises a generally disc-shaped body and a lateral projection 3 18, which extends radially outwards from the generally disc-shaped body. A mechanical linkage 326, which may comprise a split ring, is releasably connected to the lateral projection 3 18.

A cord 320 is attached to the mechanical linkage 326. A ball 330 is attached to the other end of the cord 320. The cord 320 comprises a loop 322, which passes through the mechanical linkage 326. A fastener 324 completes the loop 322. The fastener 324 may be operable to open and close the loop 322, thereby facilitating attachment to the mechanical linkage 326. The fastener 324 may be adjustable to vary the size of the loop 322 and hence the length of the cord 320 from the mechanical linkage 326 to the ball 330. A sleeve 332 is disposed around a length of the cord 320 at a location towards the end of the cord 320 to which the ball 330 is attached. The sleeve 332 may comprise a plastic material. The sleeve 332 acts to increase locally the stiffness of the cord 320. Other means of achieving the same effect may be employed, e.g. using a spiral or helical length of a relatively stiff material or a straight length of a relatively stiff material disposed alongside a portion of the cord 320.

The lateral projection 3 18 extends the anchor point of the cord 320 away from the pole 3 10, thereby reducing or preventing the risk of the cord 320 wrapping around the pole 3 10 during use of the apparatus 300.

The ball 330 may be a tennis ball. In embodiments, a different object, in particular at least one toy or plaything such as a ball of a type other than a tennis ball may be attached to the cord 320.

Figure 7 shows the same apparatus 300 as in Figure 6. The apparatus 300 has all of the features described above in relation to Figure 6.

In Figure 7, three feet 334 (only two are shown, because of the perspective of the drawing) are attached to the bottom surface 3 13. The feet 334 are configured to contact the ground and thereby stabilise the apparatus 300. The feet 334 are equally spaced from each other.

The feet 334 act to stabilise the apparatus 300 and prevent it from tilting or wobbling . It has been found that the base 3 12 with the three ground-contacting feet 334 provides better stability than a flat-bottomed base on a wide range of surfaces.

Conveniently, the feet 334 may be removably attachable to the bottom surface 3 13 of the base 3 12. Consequently, the apparatus 300 may be suitable for playing a game, in which the apparatus tilts or wobbles when a force is applied to the ball 330 (i.e. when the feet 334 are not attached to the bottom surface 3 13 of the base 3 12) or for playing a game, in which the apparatus does not tilt or wobble when a force is applied to the ball 330 (i.e. when the feet 334 are attached to the bottom surface 3 13 of the base 3 12). In embodiments, the base may be provided with any number of ground-contacting feet. For instance, the base may be provided with one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten ground-contacting feet. Figure 8 shows the underside of the base 3 12 described above. The three ground- contacting feet 334 can be clearly seen, equally spaced from each other and extending from the bottom surface 3 13.

A handle 338 is attached to the bottom surface 3 13 and extends over a recess 336 in the bottom surface 338. The handle 338 is adapted to match the convex curvature of the bottom surface 3 13. Hence, the handle 338 does not significantly affect the performance of the apparatus when it is used without the ground-contacting feet. The recess 336 is configured to allow a user to grip the handle 338. Conveniently, the base 3 12 may be readily portable .

Figure 9 shows the first part 3 17 and the second part 3 14 of the base 3 12.

At the circumference of the bottom surface 3 13 is a lip. Extending upwards from the lip is a cylindrical wall 350. The cylindrical wall 350 has on its outer side formations for engaging with a portion of the second part 3 14 of the base 3 12.

The first part 3 17 is typically sized and dimensioned such that the parts of the apparatus 300 and other associated equipment, e.g. bats, can be stored therein. At a central point on the inner surface of the bottom surface 3 13 there is a receiving formation 346 adapted for receiving an end of the pole 3 10. The bottom surface 3 13 further comprises three foot receiving formations 342 for attaching the ground- contacting feet 334 to the base 3 12. The ground-contacting feet 334 may be attached to the base 3 12 and removed from the base 3 12. The base may be used with or without the ground-contacting feet 334, depending upon the type of game that a user wants to play.

In Figure 9, rear of the recess 336 can be seen. Either side of the recess 336 are two handle connection regions 344a, 344b, to which the ends of the handle 338 (Figure 8) are attached. The second part 3 14 has all of the features described above . A hole 340 passes through the centre of the second part 3 14. With the second part 3 14 attached to the first part 3 17 the hole 340 aligns with the receiving formation 346. Consequently, the pole 3 10 passes through the hole 340 and an end of the pole 3 10 is received in the receiving formation 346.

Around the circumference of the second part 3 14 is a downwardly extending cylindrical wall 348. The cylindrical wall 348 of the second part 3 14 has on its inner surface formations configured to engage with the formations on the outer surface of the cylindrical wall 350 of the first part 3 17.

To attach the second part 3 14 to the first part 3 17, the second part 3 14 is placed on the first part 3 17 and twisted such that the formations on the inner surface of the cylindrical wall 348 of the second part 3 14 engage with the formations on the outer surface of the cylindrical wall 350 of the first part 3 17. In this way, the second part 3 14 and the first part 3 17 may be locked together when the apparatus is in use or when transporting or storing the base 3 12 with the parts of the apparatus 300 inside. Conversely, the second part 3 14 and the first part 3 17 may be disengaged from each other to allow access to the inside of the base 3 12, e.g. to remove parts of the apparatus stored inside the base 3 12, to fill the base 3 12 at least partially with a liquid and/or solid ballast, to remove any such liquid and/or solid ballast or to place parts of the apparatus inside the base 3 12 after use .

In embodiments, substantially all of the bottom surface may have a convex curvature. The radius of curvature of the bottom surface may not be the same across the entire bottom surface.

For instance, a central portion of the bottom surface (or first ground-contacting surface) may have a first radius of curvature and a portion of the bottom surface surrounding the central portion, e.g. a peripheral portion of the bottom surface, may have a second radius of curvature. The second radius of curvature may be less than or greater than the first radius of curvature .

In embodiments, the apparatus may comprise at least one resilient member such as a spring in line with the pole. The or a resilient member may be disposed between the pole and the head mounted thereon. The or a resilient member may be disposed between the pole and the base. The or a resilient member may be disposed at an intermediate point along the pole . The resilient member(s) may be configured to permit at least a portion of the apparatus to tilt or wobble relative to the base, thereby providing more challenging gameplay. An apparatus comprising at least one resilient member such as a spring may be used in combination with a base having a curved ground-contacting surface or a base having a flat ground-contacting surface or a base having a curved ground-contacting surface with ground-contacting feet.

While the present invention has been disclosed with reference to certain exemplary embodiments, many modifications may be apparent to the person skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.