Field of the Invention

This application relates to a kit consisting of a plurality of interconnectible tubular frame elements which may assembled to form a portable sports goalpost.

Background of the Invention

Conventional sports goalposts are relatively heavy wooden or steel structures anchored in a concrete footing at each end of a playing field. At the end of the playing season the goalpost is ordinarily removed for storage and to enable the playing field to be safely used for other sporting activities. This is a time consuming and expensive task which must be repeated annually.

Various portable goalposts have been developed which are more easily assembled and disassembled than standard wooden or steel structures. For example, United States patent No. 5,048,844, which issued to Haseltine on 17 September, 1991, relates to a portable rebounding soccer training goal which may be assembled for use or disas- sembled for storage or transport. The goal consists of a modular frame having a plurality of releasably inter¬ connectible frame elements. The frame is anchored in position by means of spikes driven into the ground.

United States patent No. 4,786,053, which issued to Barnes on 22 November, 1988, relates to a portable, free-standing apparatus for multiple athletic games. The Barnes device includes multiple sections of plastic pipe which may be assembled for different sporting functions, such as for use as a volleyball standard, football upright, or soccer or field hockey goal. The Barnes device is primarily designed for pool-side games rather than pro¬ fessional or amateur sports. In order to provide enhanced stability, a ballasting medium, such as water, must be

introduced into the interior of the assembled pipe. The Barnes device is not intended to be fully modular as many of the plastic pipe segments are permanently glued together to reduce installation time.

United States patent No. 5,080,375, which issued to Moosavi on 14 January, 1992, and German patent No. 3,722,200, which issued to Karbach on 12 January, 1989, also disclose soccer goals consisting of a plurality of interconnectible components which are primarily designed for practice purposes.

Existing portable goalposts suffer from various shortcomings. Free-standing goalposts are typically staked at the desired position in the playing field or maintained in place with a fluid ballast introduced into the interior of the tubular frame elements. If left unattended, such goalposts are prone to theft or vandalism, especially if the frame elements are readily disassemblable. According- ly, such goalposts are not designed to remain in place for long periods of time, such as an entire soccer or football season.

Some portable goalposts insertable into sockets anchored in a playing field are known in the prior art. However, such goalposts are also not lockable in the erected position to prevent unauthorized diassembly. Further, such goalposts are not readily pivotable relative to the ground anchors between the erected position and an inoperative position resting on the playing field surface to enable quick disassembly of the various frame elements.

Conventional connectors for coupling tubular frame elements of prior art kits together also exhibit serious design shortcomings. Typically the frame elements are either loosely fastened together, which does not provide sufficient torsional rigidity for regulation size

goalposts, or a plurality of threaded fasteners are used which increases installation time and detracts from the appearance of the assembled structure.

Another limitation of most existing portable goalposts is that they are suitable for one sport only, such as soccer. Accordingly, it is not possible to reform the various frame elements to construct a goalpost of a different type or size. This lack of adjustability poses a problem in cases where playing fields are used for multiple sports during the same playing season. For example, schools and universities may have football, rugby, soccer, field hockey and field lacrosse teams sharing the same playing fields. All of the above sports have differ- ent regulation size goals or uprights. Accordingly, a single sport goalpost is not sufficiently versatile to meet the requirements of all users.

The need has therefore arisen for an easily erectable, portable goalpost which overcomes the various limitations apparent in the prior art.

Summary of the Invention

In accordance with the invention, a kit for forming a portable goalpost from a plurality of tubular frame elements is provided. The kit includes a first frame element having an open end and an internal cavity. A first fastening means is associated with the first frame element. The kit also includes a second frame element and coupling means extending axially between the first and second frame elements. The coupling means is insertable through the open end of the first element into the internal cavity. The kit also includes engaging means located on the coup- ling means for releasably engaging the fastening means when the coupling means is inserted into the internal cavity.

SUBSTITUTE I

In one embodiment of the invention, the fastening means is formed on a surface of the first frame element. Alternatively, the fastening means could be formed on an insert positionable within the internal cavity.

Preferably the coupling means is separable from the first and second frame elements. The kit may also include second fastening means associated with the second frame element for releasably engaging the engaging means.

The coupling means may consist of an elongated sleeve having an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the first and second frame elements. The engaging means may be located on an exterior surface of the sleeve. Preferably the sleeve is concealed within the first and second frame elements when they are fully coupled together ..and the exterior surfaces of the frame elements are substantially flush at the point of joinder.

The first fastening means preferably includes a first slot formed in an end portion of the first frame element; and the second fastening means comprises a second slot formed in an end portion of the second frame element. The engaging means is releasably connectible to the first and second frame elements by axially inserting the sleeve into the interior of each of the frame elements and rotat¬ ing each frame element relative to the sleeve until a portion of the engaging means is seated within the first and second slots.

In one embodiment of the invention the engaging means may consist of first and second connectors protru¬ ding from the sleeve which are receivable in the first and second slots respectively. In an alternative embodiment, at least one of the .first and second connectors is rotat- ably coupled to the sleeve. In a further alternative embodiment of the invention, the engaging means may consist

of a longitudinally extending body fixed to a central portion of the sleeve; a first resilient tab connected proximate one end of the body and extending laterally therefrom; and a second resilient tab connected proximate the other end of the body and extending laterally therefrom in a direction opposite the first tab. When the first and second frame elements are releasably coupled together, the first tab is received in the first slot and the second tab is received in the second slot.

The kit may also include a first subgroup of frame elements interconnectible to form a goalpost lower crossbar and a second subgroup of frame elements interconn¬ ectible to form a goalpost upper crossbar. The kit may further include a support frame slidably connectible to the lower crossbar for supporting the upper crossbar and locking means securable to the support frame for releas¬ ably locking the support frame at a selected longitudinal position on the lower crossbar.

Each of the first and second frame elements may include an outer tube which is substantially square in cross-section and an inner tube which is substantially circular in cross section. Advantageously, the inner tube is integrally connected to the outer tube. The first and second slots may be formed on the inner tube of respective first and second frame elements.

The outer tube of each frame element preferably includes a longitudinally extending slot formed on a side surface thereof. Goalpost accessories, such as a net track, are slidable within the longitudinally extending slot. The net track may include a plurality of spaced apart net hooks formed on an outer surface thereof.

Preferably, the kit also includes anchor means for removably securing one of the frame elements forming a

bottom portion of the goalpost to a foundation anchored in a playing field. The anchor means may consist of pivot means for pivotally coupling the frame element to the foundation to enable pivotal adjustment of the goalpost between an inoperative position resting on the playing field and an operative position extending upwardly from the foundation. The anchor means may also include fastening means for releasably coupling the frame element to the foundation in the operative position to restrain pivoting motion of the assembled goalpost.

Advantageously, the kit may also include locking means securable to the frame element and adjustable between a locked position preventing access to the fastening means and an unlocked position allowing access to the fastening means.

Advantageously, the frame elements comprising the kit are connectible in selected combinations and subcomb- inations to form different types and sizes of support goalposts suitable for different sporting activities.

A goalpost ountable on at least one foundation anchored on a playing field is also disclosed which in- eludes pivot means for pivotally coupling a bottom portion of the goalpost to the foundation to enable pivotal adjust¬ ment of the goalpost between an inoperative position resting on the playing field and an operative position extending upwardly from the foundation; and fastening means for releasably coupling the goalpost bottom portion to the foundation in the operative position to restrain pivoting motion of the goalpost.

Preferably, the goalpost further comprises locking means securable to the goalpost bottom portion and adjustable between a locked position preventing access to

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the fastening means and an unlocked position allowing access to the fastening means.

An apparatus for removably anchoring a goalpost on a playing field is also disclosed which includes a foundation positionable at a predetermined location on the playing field, the foundation having an upper surface extending substantially level with the playing field; pivot means for pivotally coupling a bottom portion of the goalpost to the foundation upper surface to enable pivot- able adjustment of the goalpost between an inoperative position resting on the playing field and an operative position extending upwardly from the foundation upper surface; and fastening means for releasably coupling the goalpost bottom portion to the foundation in the operative position to restrain pivoting motion of the goalpost.

Preferably the foundation top surface consists of a plate having at least one aperture extending there- through for receiving the fastening means. The foundation may also include retention means positionable underneath the plate for securely retaining the fastening means in the inoperative position.

Brief Description of the Drawings

In drawings which illustrate embodiments of the invention, but which should not be construed as restricting the scope of the invention in any way,

Figure 1 is a front isometric view of a plurality of frame elements assembled to form a wishbone-style pro¬ fessional football goalpost pivotally connectable to a foundation anchored on a playing field;

Figure 2 is a front isometric view of the goal¬ post of Figure 1 in its fully erected configuration;

Figure 3 is a front elevational view of a plural¬ ity of frame elements assembled to form a rugby goalpost;

Figure 4 is a front elevational view of a plural¬ ity of frame elements assembled to form a H-style high school football goalpost;

Figure 5 is an enlarged, partially fragmented, exploded view showing a system for releasably connecting the frame elements together;

Figure 6 is a sectional view illustrating the hinged base plates for anchoring the goalpost in the ground;

Figure 7 is a top plan view of the base plates of Figure 6;

Figure 8 is a side elevational view of an alter¬ native, free-standing configuration of the frame elements assembled to form a soccer goal;

Figure 9 is a side elevational view of a further alternative free-standing configuration of the frame elements assembled to form a soccer goal;

Figure 10 is a top plan view of the free-standing soccer goal of Figure 9;

Figure 11 is an exploded, isometric view illus¬ trating an alternative connector for releasably coupling two frame elements together;

Figures 12-14 are isometric views illustrating a sequence of steps for releasably coupling the frame el¬ ements of Figure 11 together;

Figure 15 is an isometric view of the frame elements of Figure 11 fully coupled together with the outer wall of each frame element partially broken away to reveal the internal connector sleeve;

Figure 16 is an exploded, isometric view showing a hinge plate subassembly for pivotally coupling a goal¬ post to a foundation anchored on a playing field;

Figure 17 is an isometric view showing the hinge plate subassembly of Figure 16 coupled to the top surface of the foundation and showing the goalpost in an inoperat¬ ive position resting on the playing field surface;

Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the goalpost and foundation of Figure 17 showing the goalpost in an operative, erected position;

Figure 19 is an isometric view of the goalpost of

Figure 18 showing the padlock door open to allow access to screw fasteners releasably coupling the hinge plate subass¬ embly to the foundation of Figure 17;

Figure 20 is an isometric view showing the padlock door of Figure 19 in a closed and locked position to prevent access to the fasteners;

Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view of an alter- native embodiment of a foundation anchored in a playing field consisting of an inverted U-shaped bracket and a removable retention plate;

Figure 22 is an isometric view of a net track accessory slidably insertable within a longitudinally extending slot formed in a side surface of a goalpost frame element;

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Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of the frame element and net track of Figure 22;

Figure 24 is an isometric view of an assembled goalpost having a lower crossbar and a removable upper crossbar supported by a plurality of subassemblies slid¬ ably coupled to the lower crossbar;

Figure 25 is an exploded view of one of the crossbar support subassemblies of Figure 24;

Figure 26 is an isometric view of the subassembly of Figure 25 in an assembled and locked position;

Figure 27 is an exploded, isometric view of a miniature collapsible goalpost constructed from a plurality of interconnectible frame elements;

Figure 28 is an isometric view of a plug-like net hook insertable into an aperture formed in one of the frame elements of Figure 27;

Figure 29 is an exploded, isometric view showing an alternative connector sleeve for releasably coupling selected frame elements of Figure 27 together;

Figure 30 is a partially exploded, isometric view of a further alternative embodiment of the invention constructed from cylindrical frame elements;

Figure 31 is an exploded, isometric view showing an alternative connector sleeve for releasably coupling the frame elements of Figure 30 together;

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Figure 32(a) is an alternative embodiment of the connector sleeve of Figure 31 having a pin rotatably coupled to the sleeve;

Figure 32(b) is an isometric view of the con¬ nector of Figure 32(a) in a locked position;

Figure 33 is an exploded, isometric view of an alternative hinge plate subassembly for pivotally coupling a frame element of Figure 30 to a foundation anchored on a playing field;

Figure 34 is an isometric view of the hinge plate subassembly of Figure 33 showing the goalpost coupled to the foundation and the padlock door in a raised position; and

Figure 35 is an isometric view of the goalpost of Figures 33 and 34 locked in an operative position on the foundation.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

This application relates to a kit for forming a portable goalpost from a plurality of tubular frame el¬ ements. In a first embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figures 1-10, a kit of frame elements 1-36 may be as¬ sembled in different combinations and subcombinations to form goalposts 50 of different types and sizes suitable for different sporting activities. For example, elements 1- 36 may be optionally assembled to form a regulation size football goalpost 50 (Figures 1, 2, and 4), a rugby goal¬ post 50 (Figure 3) , a soccer goal 50 (Figures 8-10) or a field hockey or field lacrosse goal (not shown) . Goalpost 50 may be anchored in-ground (Figures 1-7) or may be free¬ standing (Figures 8-10) .

SUBSTIT T

Most sports have regulations set by official organizations governing the size and lining of playing fields, the dimensions of goalposts and the like. The dimensions of several regulation size sports goals are set forth in the following table:

TABLE 1: REGULATION SIZE SPORTS GOALS

As used in this application, the term "support post" or "crossbar support post" refers to a ground-anchored verti¬ cal post for maintaining the crossbar in a horizontal orientation above the playing field surface. The term "uprights" refers to the vertical members extending upward- ly from the crossbar through which field goals, converts and like are kicked. Uprights are required for football and rugby only.

As indicated in Table 1, regulation size football and rugby crossbars are positioned 10' above the playing field surface, as measured to the top of the crossbar. Soccer, field hockey and field lacrosse crossbars are positioned 8 ¹ , 7' and 6' above the playing field surface respectively, as measured to the bottom of the crossbar.

Not all of goalpost frame elements 1-36 are used in every configuration of the invention. As explained in further detail below, the shape and dimensions of frame elements 1-36 have been carefully selected to minimize the total number of separate elements required while at the same time enabling assembly of a variety of regulation size goals 50 suitable for multiple sports, and ensuring that goalpost 50 is fully portable when disassembled.

Figure 5 illustrates a first embodiment of the

"coupling means" for interconnecting selected frame el¬ ements together. By way of example, the coupling means for interconnecting frame elements 7 and 8 (which form part of the goalpost crossbar) is shown. The same mechanism may be employed for coupling the remaining frame elements 1-36 together.

As shown in Figure 5, frame elements 7 and 8 each consist of a length of hollow tubing having a male shaft 54 formed at one end thereof and a female socket 56 formed at the opposite end thereof. Both male shaft 54 and female socket 56 have a borehole 58 extending diametrically there¬ through perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of frame elements 7, 8. Frame elements 7, 8 are coupled together by inserting the male shaft 54 of frame element 8 into the female socket 56 of frame element 7 until boreholes 58 are aligned. Frame elements 7,8 may then be releasably coupled together by inserting a pin 60 through aligned boreholes 58.

As shown in Figure 5, pin 60 has an enlarged head 62 at one end and an aperture 64 formed near the opposite end thereof which extends perpendicular to the longi¬ tudinal axis of pin 60. After pin 60 is fully inserted through aligned boreholes 58, a resilient clip 66 is in¬ serted through aperture 64 to prevent withdrawal of pin 60 from aligned boreholes 58. Thus, frame elements 7,8 may be

B TITUTE 1 ii

releasably coupled together without any tools or threaded fasteners. As indicated above, the other frame elements 1- 36 may be coupled together in various combinations or subcombinations in the same fashion.

Preferably, the outer diameter of male shaft 54 is machined so that it is only slightly less than the inner diameter of female socket 56. This ensures that the male shaft 54 of one frame element 1-36 will fit snugly into the female socket 56 of an immediately adjacent frame element 1-36. Accordingly, goalpost 50 has a high degree of struc¬ tural rigidity when fully assembled and will not sag or deflect significantly, even when subjected to high winds. This is particularly important to ensure that the crossbar span extends at a consistent height above the playing field surface. Preferably goalpost frame elements 1-36 are con¬ structed from light weight, thin-walled aluminum having sufficient strength to resist the sort of impacts typically encountered in professional sports without significantly deforming.

As should be apparent from the drawings, by interconnecting frame elements 1-36 in the mating fashion described above, goalpost 50 has a smooth, continuous external surface. That is, there are no ridges or projec¬ tions at the junctures between adjacent frame elements unlike prior art goalpost designs.

Optionally, goalpost 50 may also include "locking means" for preventing unauthorized disassembly of frame elements 1-36. The locking means may consist of a hasp 67 formed on each of the frame elements 1-36 (Figure 5) through which a metal chain or chains is threaded (not shown) . Preferably the chain is secured to the base of goalpost 50 with a padlock or the like. Other equivalent means for locking frame elements 1-36 together in a fully assembled configuration may be envisaged.

Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a first configuration of the invention wherein frame elements 1-36 are assembled to form a wishbone-style football goalpost 50 comprising a single, ground-anchored support post, a crossbar and a pair of uprights spaced at either end of the crossbar. In this configuration, frame elements 1-4, which comprise the support post, are preferably constructed from tubing having an outer diameter of approximately 6-7 inches. Frame elements 6-16, which comprise the crossbar and uprights of goalpost 50, are preferably constructed from tubing having a 4" outer diameter. A yoke 5 is provided for coupling the support post to the center portion of the crossbar (Figures 1 and 2) .

The dimensions of frame elements 5-10 have been selected ..to ensure a maximum spacing of 23' 4" between the respective uprights, which corresponds to the regulation size upright spacing for many amateur and high school football leagues (see Table 1) . Goalpost 50 may be readily converted to a regulation size college or pro¬ fessional football goal, having a spacing of 18* 6" between the uprights, by removing frame elements 9 from the cross¬ bar (each element 9 is 29" in length, excluding male shaft 54) . The spacing between the goalpost uprights may also be adjusted to 14' by removing frame elements 8 and 9 from the crossbar, or 10' by removing elements 7, 8 and 9. The smaller upright spacings may be used as a scaled-down target for practice purposes, such as to assist place kickers to improve their kicking accuracy.

Optionally, the height of the crossbar above the playing field may be reduced from 10' to 5' by removing frame element 2 from the support post. The lower crossbar height may be suitable for youth football leagues and the like.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, frame elements 10 and 11 consist of L-shaped elbows for connecting the uprights to the goalpost crossbar. Elements 10 and 11 are identical in size, each having one segment which is 16" long and another segment which is 12" long, excluding male shafts 54. In element 10, male shaft 54 is formed on the shorter, 12" segment and in element 11 male shaft 54 is formed on the longer, 16" segment. In the Figure 1 and 2 configuration, the shorter segment of elements 10 and 11 forms part of the goalpost crossbar and the longer segment forms part of the goalpost upright. Element 10 is posi¬ tioned so that its male shaft 54 extends upwardly for coup¬ ling to the mating female socket 56 of element 15, which forms part of the upright. By contrast, male shaft 54 of frame element 11 extends inwardly for coupling to the female socket of element 9, which forms part of the cross¬ bar (Figures 1 and 2) .

Frame elements 13 and 14, which form the upper- most termination of the respective football uprights, are also identical except that element 13 has a female socket 56 only and element 14 has a male shaft 54 only. The uppermost ends of elements 13 and 14, opposite the respect¬ ive shaft and sockets 54,56, are closed to prevent precipi- tation and insects from entering into the interior of the uprights once goalpost 50 is fully assembled.

The dimensions and number of frame elements 1- 36 required to form the wishbone-style football goalpost 50 illustrated in Figures l and 2 are set forth in the follow¬ ing table. (The length dimensions listed in Table 2 and in all subsequent Tables exclude male shafts 54 which are fully inserted into corresponding female sockets 56 when goalpost 50 is assembled as explained above) .

SUBSTITUTE SHEET.

TABLE 2 : WISH-BONE STYLE FOOTBALL GOALPOST

Frame element # Re 'd Dimensions/Description

16" support post base 60" support post extension support post offset elbow segment 1: 22" segment 2: 18" 36" support post extension yoke support post segment: 18" crossbar segment: 24" 36" crossbar extension 24" crossbar extension 27" crossbar extension

29" crossbar extension L-shaped elbow L-shaped elbow 60" upright extension 52" upright termination - male

52" upright termination - female 52" upright extension 52" upright extension

As best shown in Figures 6 and 7, frame element 1 (i.e the support post base) is constructed so that it may be removably anchored in the ground. In particular, frame element 1 includes a planar bottom plate 70 and a plurality of stiffeners 72 which extend upwardly from base 70 at spaced intervals to provide lateral support for the support post. As shown in Figures 1 and 6, plate 70 may be hinged- ly coupled to a corresponding plate 76 which is securely anchored at a selected position in the playing field in question. For example, field plate 76 may be anchored by means of a length of rebar 78 extending into a concrete footing 80 cast in the playing field in question. When not in use, field plate 76 preferably extends flush with the playing field surface so that it will not pose a safety risk. Optionally, field plate 76 may be covered with a section of natural or artificial turf.

SHEET.

Base plate 70 preferably has a hinge sleeve 82 mounted on one edge thereof (Figure 7) which may be aligned with corresponding hinge sleeves 84 provided on opposite ends of field plate 76 (Figure 1) . Sleeves 82 and 84 are preferably mounted on respective plates 70 and 76 by means of screws 90 or other suitable fasteners. A hinge pin 86 may be inserted through the aperture defined by hinge sleeves 82, 84 to releasably couple base plate 72 to field plate 76. A suitable fastener, such as nut 88, may be secured to one end of hinge pin 86 to maintain pin 86 in position.

Base plate 70 and field plate 76 may include a second hinge mechanism (not shown) positioned directly opposite the first hinge mechanism described above for releasably coupling the opposite edges of plates 70,76 together, thus securely maintaining frame element 1 in a vertical orientation^. In this embodiment, the hinge pin 86 of the second hinge mechanism is inserted within the corresponding hinge sleeves 82,84 after goalpost 50. is fully erected rather while it is resting on the playing field surface.

As shown best in Figure 7, a plurality of upward- ly extending threaded bolts 92 may be provided on field plate 76 which pass through boreholes 94 provided in the corners of base plate 70. Optionally, nuts 96 may be fastened to threaded bolts 92 to permanently or semi¬ permanently couple plates 70 and 76 together.

Alternatively, nuts 96 may be pre-mounted on the undersurface of field plate 76 and bolts 92 may comprise separate threaded fasteners insertable through apertures in plates 70, 76 which are alignable above a corresponding nut 96. This alternative embodiment would ensure that bolts 92 do not project upwardly from the playing field surface to pose a potential safety risk when field plate 76 is not in

use. Further, removable bolts 92 would not interfere with pivoting motion of base plate 70 relative to field plate 76 when goalpost 50 is initially erected.

In operation, goalpost 50 is erected by assembl¬ ing frame elements 1-36 in the desired configuration on the playing field surface and hingedly coupling base plate 70 to field plate 76 as described above (Figures 1 and 2) . A rope or ropes is then fastened to the goalpost support post(s) and the assembled structure is erected by pulling on the ropes to cause goalpost 50 to pivot upwardly about field plate 76 to a vertical orientation. If desired, the second hinge mechanism and/or the bolting mechanism de¬ scribed above may be secured to rigidly maintain goalpost 50 in place.

The light weight construction of frame elements 1-36 facilitates erection of goalpost 50. For example, the total weight of the wishbone-style football goalpost 50 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 is on the order of 160-185 lbs. Accordingly, goalpost 50 may be quickly and easily erected by one or two individuals without any tools or machinery. By contrast, conventional welded steel football goalposts of regulation size weigh on the order of 600 - 1000 pounds.

When goalpost 50 is fully disassembled, frame elements 1-36 may be placed into a duffle bag for storage or transport to another playing field. Hence goalpost 50 is fully portable.

Figure 3 illustrates an alternative, "H-style" configuration of goalpost 50 suitable for rugby. In this embodiment goalpost 50 has two spaced-apart support posts anchored in the ground for supporting opposite ends of the goalpost crossbar rather than a single, central support post as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2. The frame elements

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7, 19, 20 and 21 which form the support posts are prefer¬ ably 4" in outer diameter.

The base of each support post consists of a frame element 20 or 21 which serves essentially the same function as frame element l of the Figure 1 and 2 configuration described above. That is, frame elements 20 and 21 each have a base plate 70 ¹ which may be hingedly coupled to a corresponding plate 76 anchored in the playing field in question in the same manner as illustrated in Figure 6 (in the rugby configuration, field plates 76 are anchored on the goal line rather than behind the goal line as shown in Figure 1) . Frame elements 20 and 21 are identical except that element 20 has a male shaft 54 formed at its upper end opposite base plate 70 ¹ and element 21 has a female socket 56 at its upper end opposite base plate 70 ¹ .

The present invention exhibits an economy of parts since many of the frame elements 1-36 are inter- changeable. For example, frame elements 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, and 16 which form part of the wishbone-style football goalpost (Figures 1 and 2) may also be used as part of the rugby goalpost 50 (Figure 3) . The dimensions and number of frame elements 1-36 required to form the regulation size rugby goalpost 50 illustrated in Figure 3 are listed in the following table:

TABLE 3 : "H-STYLE" RUGBY GOAL CONFIGURATION

Fr e ement # Reg'd Dimensions/Description

36" crossbar extension

24" support post and crossbar extension

27" crossbar extension L-shaped elbow

L-shaped elbow 52" upright termination - male 14 1 52" upright termination - female

15 1 52" upright extension

16 1 52" upright extension

19 2 20" support post extension

20 1 36" support post base - male

21 1 36" support post base - female

22 1 T-joint; Female/Male/Male

23 1 T-joint; Female/Female/Male

In the Figure 3 embodiment, frame elements 10 and 11 are positioned so that the shorter, 12" segment extends downwardly to form part of the goalpost support post whereas the longer, 16" segment extends inwardly to form part of the goalpost crossbar. In particular, element 10 is positioned so that its female socket 56 extends down¬ wardly to receive the mating male shaft 54 of element 19, whereas element 11 is positioned so that its male shaft 54 extends downwardly to receive the female end 56 of element 19.

In order to ensure that the rugby uprights are spaced a regulation distance apart (i.e. 18' 6"), a pair of T-shaped frame elements 22 and 23 are provided. Frame elements 22 and 23 are substantially identical except that frame element 22 has two male shafts 54 and one female. socket 56 whereas frame element 23 has one male shaft 54 and two female sockets 56. Frame element 22 is configured so that one of its male shafts 54 is received in the female socket 56 of element 11; the other male shaft 54 is re¬ ceived by the female socket of element 16, which forms part of the upright; and the female socket 56 receives the male shaft 54 of element 8, which forms part of the crossbar. By contrast, frame element 23 is positioned so that one of its female sockets 56 receives the male shaft 54 of element 10; the other female socket 56 receives the male shaft 54 of element 15, which forms part of the upright; and the male shaft 54 is received by the female socket ^" 56 of element 8, which forms part of the crossbar.

UTE SHEET

As with the football goalpost illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, frame elements 13 and 14 form the upper¬ most sections of the rugby uprights. Regulation size rugby uprights are 10' in length (i.e. one half the length of regulation size football uprights) . The rugby goalpost 50 of Figure 3 may be readily converted to a regulation size "H-style" professional football goalpost by inserting 2 frame elements 12 in each of uprights (as indicated in Table 2, each frame element 12 is 5' in length). Alterna- tively, goalpost 50 as illustrated in Figure 3 may readily be used for football contests with non-regulation size uprights, especially at the high school or amateur level.

Goalpost 50 of Figure 3 may also be easily ad- justed to form a regulation size soccer goal. Since uprights are not required for soccer, frame elements 13,

14, 15, 1§ and 22, 23 may be removed from goalpost 50 and a pair of linear frame elements 9 may be substituted for T- shaped frame elements 22 and 23 to form a continuous crossbar. Additionally, frame elements 19 are removed from either support post to ensure that the bottom of the crossbar extends the regulation 8' above the playing field surface. The goal net may be secured to the support posts and uprights in any suitable manner, such as with spaced hooks or the like (not shown) . Table 4 lists the frame elements required to form a regulation size soccer goal:

TABLE 4: SOCCER GOALPOST

e element Re 'd Dimensions/Description

36" crossbar extension 24" crossbar and support post extension 27" crossbar extension

29" crossbar extension L-shaped elbow L-shaped elbow 36" support post base - male 36" support post base - female

Further adjustments may be made to convert soccer goalpost 50 to a regulation size field hockey goal (not shown) . In particular, frame elements 6 and 7 may be removed from the crossbar to reduce the spacing between the support posts from 24' to 12'. Additionally, a pair of frame elements 7 are removed from either support post and are replaced with a single frame element 6 to ensure that the bottom of the crossbar extends the regulation 7 ' above the playing field surface. Table 5 lists the frame el¬ ements required to form a regulation size field hockey goal: TABLE 5: FIELD HOCKEY GOALPOST

Frame element # Reg'd Dimensions/Description 6 2 36" support post extension

8 2 27" crossbar extension

9 2 29" crossbar extension

10 1 L-shaped elbow

11 1 L-shaped elbow 20 1 36" support post base - male

21 1 36" support post base - female

In order to reduce the size of goalpost 50 further to form a regulation size field lacrosse goal (not shown) , a pair of frame elements 7 may be substituted for frame elements 6, thus reducing the height of the crossbar above the playing field surface from 7' to 6'. The field lacrosse crossbar may consist of two 20" frame elements 19 in addition to the 16" segments of elements 10 and 11 to obtain the requisite 6 ' spacing between the support posts. Table 6 lists the frame elements required to form a regula¬ tion size field lacrosse goal:

TITU i E SHEET

TABLE 6: FIELD LACROSSE GOALPOST

Dimensions/

Frame element # Req'd Description

7 2 24' crossbar extension 19 2 20" crossbar extension 10 1 L-shaped elbow 11 1 L-shaped elbow 20 1 36" support post base - male 21 1 36" support post base - female

Figure 4 illustrates a further alternative configuration of the invention wherein the goalpost 50 of Figure 3 is adjusted to form a goal suitable for high school and amateur football. In this embodiment speciality off-set pieces 17 and 18 are substituted for elbows 10 and 11 and T-shaped elements 22 and 23 to ensure that the distance between the respective uprights is 23' 4" (i.e. the regulation spacing for many high school football leagues) Frame elements 17 and 18 are substantially identical except that element 17 has two male shafts 54 and one female socket 56, whereas element 18 has one male shaft 54 and two female sockets 56. Table 7 lists the frame elements required to form the "H-style" high school foot¬ ball goalpost of Figure 4.

TABLE 7 : "H-STYLE" HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL CONFIGURATION

Dimensions/Description

36" crossbar extension

24" support post and crossbar extension

27" crossbar extension

52" upright termination - male

52" upright termination - female 52" upright extension

BSTITUTE «2 & a ε~ a-

16 1 52" upright extension

17 1 offset tee; Female/Male/Male

18 1 offset tee; Female/Female/

Male

19 2 20" support post extension

20 1 36" support post base - male

21 1 36" support post base female

Figures 8-10 illustrate further alternative configurations of the invention which are free-standing rather than ground-anchored. The free-standing configur¬ ations are primarily designed for use as soccer, field hockey and field lacrosse goals, although football and rugby goalposts could be similarly modified.

In the free-standing configurations, a clevis 34 is mounted on the rear surface of each of frame elements 20 and 21 adjacent to base plate 70 ¹ . Similarly, frame elements 10 and 11, which form the elbow joints connecting the support posts to the crossbar, each have a clevis 34 mounted on their rearward surface (Figures 8 and 9) .

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8, a pair of rear base plates designated 70 ¹¹ are provided which rest freely on the surface of the playing field. Each plate 70 ¹¹ has a clevis 34 mounted thereon. A pair of rear ties 33 are provided for extending between base plates 70 ¹ and 70 ¹¹ at either end of the goalpost 50. Each end of tie 33 is secured to a respective clevis 34 with a suitable fastener, such as a clevis pin.

A series of linear tubular elements 32, 35 and 36 are provided to form rear stays extending between rear base plates 70 ¹¹ and frame elements 10 and 11, which form the ends of the goalpost crossbar. Element 35 is releasably connected to the clevis 34 provided on the rear surface of elements 10 or 11 as described above and element 32 is con- nected in the same fashion to the clevis 34 formed on rear

SUBSTITUTE c U ΠST

base plate 70 . Elements 36 are provided for extending between frame elements 32 and 35 and may be of variable length to suit the height of the goalpost crossbar in question. Frame elements 32, 33, 35 and 36 are all prefer- ably 1 7/8" in outer diameter to enable coupling to a respective clevis 34.

Figures 9 and 10 illustrate a further alternative embodiment of the invention wherein a rear crossbar is provided in addition to a rear tie and stay. In this embodiment, the rear stay includes an articulated upper brace 24 in addition to linear frame elements 30-32 (Figure 9). As shown best in Figure 10, a rear crossbar comprised of linear frame elements 25-28 extends between respective upper braces 24. A soccer and/or field lacrosse net or the like may be draped over the rear crossbar in the usual manner.

The various frame elements which comprise the free-standing configurations illustrated in Figures 8-10 are may be coupled together in the same fashion as illus¬ trated in Figure 5. For example, each upper brace 24 preferably has an inwardly facing socket 56 for receiving mating male shafts 54 formed on crossbar elements 27 and 28. Crossbar element 25 may include two male shafts 54 formed at either end for coupling to mating female sockets 56 formed on an open end of frame elements 26 and 29 (Figure 10) .

The preferred dimensions of the frame elements required to form the free-standing soccer goals illus- trated in Figures 8-10 are listed in the following tables:

TABLE 8: FREE-STANDING SOCCER GOAL

Frame element # Req'd Dimensions/Description

6 2 36" crossbar extension 7 7 24" crossbar and support post extension

L

8 2 27" crossbar extension 9 2 29" crossbar extension 10 1 L-shaped elbow 11 1 L-shaped elbow 20 1 36" support post base - male 21 1 36" support post base - female

32 2 23" rear stay extension 33 2 48" rear tie 34 6 clevis connector 35 2 39 1/4" rear stay extension 36 2 21" rear stay extension

TABLE 9: FREE-STANDING SOCCER GOAL WITH REAR CROSSBAR

Frame element # Reg'd Dimensions/Description

6 2 36" front crossbar extension 7 7 24" front crossbar and support post extension

8 2 27" front crossbar extension 9 2 29" front crossbar extension 10 1 L-shaped elbow 11 1 L-shaped elbow 20 1 36" support post base - male 21 1 36" support post base - female

24 2 upper brace: 2 X 24" segments 25 1 40" rear crossbar extension 26 1 40" rear crossbar extension 27 1 27" rear crossbar extension 28 1 24" rear crossbar extension 29 1 36" rear crossbar extension 30 2 21 3/4" rear stay extension 32 2 23" rear stay extension 33 2 48" rear tie 34 6 clevis connector

In a further alternative embodiment of the invention, the rear crossbar may extend along the playing field surface between the spaced-apart rear base plates 70 ¹¹ . For example, suitable socket couplings may be mounted on each clevis 34 secured to the respective rear base plates 70 ¹¹ rather than on upper braces 24 as described above. In this further alternative embodiment, the rear

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crossbar may include means for supporting a backboard as used for grass hockey and other sports.

Optionally, front and rear base plates 70 ¹ , 70 ¹¹ may be apertured to enable spikes to be driven through the plates into the playing field to removably maintain goal¬ post 50 in the desired position.

Figures 11-15 illustrate an alternative embodi- ment of the invention. In this embodiment, the applicant's modular goalpost kit consists of a plurality of interconne- ctible frame elements 100 which are preferably constructed from extruded aluminium. Each frame element 100 includes an outer tube 102, which is square in cross section, and a cylindrical inner tube 104 integrally connected to outer tube 102 by means of a plurality of rigid ribs 106 (Figure 23) . One side surface of outer tube 102 has a longitudi¬ nally extending slot- 108 formed therein. As discussed in further detail below, various goalpost accessories may be releasably coupled to selected frame elements 100. by slidably inserting a mating track or plate into slot 108.

As shown in Figure 11, two separate frame el¬ ements 100 may be releasably coupled together end to end by means of "coupling means" such as connector sleeve 110. Connector sleeve 110 differs from the first embodiment of the "coupling means" illustrated in Figure 5, since it is separable from frame elements 100 and does not require the use of additional fasteners or clips to releasably couple the frame elements 100 together.

Sleeve 110 has an outer diameter slightly less than the inner diameter of frame element inner tube 104. A bayonet connector 112 is mounted on an external surface of sleeve 110 and is insertable into mating cut-out slots 114 formed at either end of each frame element inner tube 104.

UBS

As shown best in Figures 11 and 12, bayonet connector 112 consists of a longitudinally extending body 116 which is fixed to a central portion of sleeve 112; and a pair of resilient tabs 118 which extend laterally from either end of body 116 in opposite directions. Tabs 118 are capable of flexing to a limited extent relative to body 116 and function essentially as leaf springs. The free end of each tab 118 each has an inwardly protruding tapered surface 120. Connector 112 also includes substantially planar opposed side walls 121 and stops 122 which extend longitudinally at either end of connector 112 a short distance beyond tabs 118.

Slots 114 formed at either end of each frame element inner tube 104 are shaped to receive a respective end portion of connector 112. As best shown in Figure 11, each slot 114 is defined by a planar side wall 124, an end wall 126, and a projection 128 having a camming surface 130. Each slot 114 thus has an entrance portion 131 defined between side wall 124 and projection 128; and a laterally recessed portion 132 defined between projection 128 and end wall 126.

The sequence of steps for coupling two frame elements 100 together end to end using a connector sleeve 110 is illustrated in Figures 12-15. As shown in Figure 12, each end of sleeve 110 is first inserted into a re¬ spective frame element inner tube 104. The frame elements 100 to be joined are then slid toward one another until each end portion of connector 112 is seated in a correspon¬ ding slot 114. In particular, the entrance portion 131 of each slot 114 is wide enough to receive a resilient tab 118 when side wall 121 of connector 112 is engaged against side wall 124 of a respective slot 114. The frame elements 100 to be coupled together are slid toward one another as

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aforesaid until stops 122 projecting at either end of connector 112 engage end wall 126 of a respective slot 114.

As shown in Figure 13, frame elements 100 are then rotated relative to connector sleeve 110 in opposite directions. Preferably a pair of J-shaped custom tools 134 are used to rotate frame elements 100. Each tool 134 is sized to securely engage a respective frame element outer tube 102.

As each frame element 100 is rotated relative to connector sleeve 110 the inwardly protruding tapered surface 120 of each resilient tab 118 engages and slides over a corresponding camming surface 130 of projection 128 until the free end of tab 118 snaps into place within a corresponding recessed portion 132 of slot 114 (Figure 15) . Thus frame elements 100 are coupled together by a combina¬ tion of axial and rotational movements.

As shown in Figures 14 and 15, when two frame elements 100 are fully coupled together as described above, connector sleeve 110 is completely concealed within frame element inner tubes 104. Further, the exterior surfaces of frame element outer tubes 102 are substantially flush and continuous at the point of joinder. This ensures that the assembled goalpost has a sleek, continuous profile with no screws, bolts or other fasteners projecting outwardly.

As shown best in Figure 15, in the fully coupled position relative axial movement of frame elements 100 is restrained since each resilient tab 118 of connector 112 is captured within a corresponding slot recess 132. In order to disassemble the coupled frame elements 100, it would be necessary to reverse the procedure illustrated in Figures 13 and 14, namely rotate each frame element 100 in opposite directions relative to each other and connector sleeve 110. The tolerances of resilient tabs 118 are designed so that

it would not be possible to apply a sufficient degree of rotational force to manually dislodge tabs 118 from corre¬ sponding slots recesses 132 without using tools 134. Accordingly, once frame elements 100 have been coupled together as described above, they cannot be decoupled except by personnel having access to tools 134. Sleeve 110 ensures that the assembled goalpost has a high degree of torsional rigidity to prevent sagging crossbars and the like.

As in the first embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figures 1-10, frame elements 100 may be manufactured in different lengths and configurations to enable the assembly of either free-standing or ground- anchored portable goalposts. For example, the goalpost kit may include linear, L-shaped, T-shaped or other custom frame elements 100 to enable assembly of one or more sports goals of the desired type and size. Specific kits or sub- kits could be manufactured for the assembly of soccer, football, rugby, lacrosse, and grass hockey goals, for example.

The kit for assembling ground-anchored goalposts, from frame elements 100 preferably includes "anchor means", similar to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, for pivotally coupling the base of the assembled goalpost to one or more foundations anchored at fixed positions on the playing field surface. As explained above, and as illustrated schematically in Figure 1, this enables the goalpost to be fully assembled on the playing field surface and then pivoted to an erected position extending upwardly from one or more foundations pre-installed in the playing field in question.

Figures 16-20 illustrate an alternative embodi¬ ment of the "anchor means" specifically designed for use in association with the frame elements 100 shown in Figures

T

11-15. As explained above, each frame element 100 is preferably a length of extruded aluminium consisting of a square outer tube 102 and a cylindrical inner tube 104 integrally connected to outer tube 102. A longitudinal slot 108 is formed on one side surface of outer tube 102 so that a cylindrically convex exterior surface of inner tube 104 is partially exposed (Figure 23) . As will be discussed in further detail below, a net track 136, or some other goalpost accessory, may be inserted into slot 108 to cover, or partially cover, the cylindrical outer surface of tube 104.

Figure 16 illustrates how a bottom end of one frame element 100 may be coupled to a connecting plate subassembly generally designated 138. Subassembly 138 includes a cylindrical alignment sleeve 140 having an outer diameter ..slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the frame element inner tube 104. The bottom edge of sleeve 140 is welded to a pair of outer flaps 142 hingedly coupled at one end of subassembly 138 to a shorter inner flap 144. As shown best in Figure 16, inner flap 144 is hingedly coupled to outer flaps 142 by means of a hinge pin 146. A padlock door 148 is hingedly coupled to outer flaps 142 at the opposite end of subassembly 138 by means of hinge pin 150. Outer flaps 142 each have an aperture 152 extending therethrough at the end of subassembly 138 near padlock door 148. Inner flap 144 also has an aperture 154 passing therethrough as shown in Figure 16.

With reference to Figures 17 and 18, connecting plate subassembly 138 may be used to releasably couple one frame element 100 to a foundation 156 anchored at a fixed location on the playing field surface. Foundation 156 preferably comprises a tube 158 which is positioned within a hole dug in the playing field and surrounded by cement to securely anchor foundation tube 158 in place. Foundation tube 158 has a top plate 160 having a pair of spaced

apertures 162 located near one end thereof and an aperture 164 located in a central portion of plate 160 towards the other end thereof (Figure 17) . As shown best in Figure 18, a pair of internally threaded nuts 166 are welded to the undersurface of plate 160 immediately underneath respect¬ ive apertures 162. A single threaded nut 168 is similarly welded to the undersurface of plate 160 underneath aper¬ ture 164. Apertured spacers 184 and 186 are also welded to the undersurface of outer flaps 142 and inner flap 144 respectively (Figures 17 and 18) .

In operation, one frame element 100 is coupled to connecting plate subassembly 138 by sliding one end of frame inner tube 104 over cylindrical sleeve 140. A small aperture 170 formed on inner tube 104 is alignable with a corresponding aperture 172 formed on sleeve 140 (Figure 16) . Frame element inner tube 104 and sleeve 140 are then releasably fastened together with a threaded fastener 174 which is insertable through apertures 170, 172 and held in position with a removable nut 176 positionable within sleeve 140 (Figure 18) . The outwardly projecting end of fastener 174 consists of a nut portion 178 having an aperture 180 passing therethrough for receiving the hasp of a padlock, as discussed in further detail below.

After frame element 100 and connecting plate subassembly 138 have been coupled together as aforesaid, subassembly 138 is hingedly connected to foundation top plate 160 as shown in Figure 17. In particular, inner flap 144 is releasably coupled to top plate 160 by aligning flap aperture 154, underlying spacer 186, and plate aperture 164. A threaded fastener, such as a cap screw 182, is then passed through aperture 154, spacer 186 and aperture 164 and secured to nut 168 fixed to the undersurface of plate 160 (Figure 18) .

The assembled goalpost, including the bottom frame element 100, may then be pivoted relative to inner flap 144 from a inoperative position shown in Figure 17 resting on the playing field surface to an erected position shown in Figures 18-20. As shown best in Figures 18 and 19, padlock door 148 is initially swung about hinge pin 150 to the fully open position resting on the playing field surface. This enables outer flaps 142 of connecting plate assembly 138 to be releasably coupled to foundation top plate 160 using threaded fasteners 188, such as a pair of cap screws. In particular, each fastener 188 is inserted through a respective outer flap aperture 152, and underly¬ ing spacer 184, and an aligned aperture 162 of foundation top plate 160, and into a corresponding nut 166 formed on the undersurface of plate 160 (Figure 18) . Once fasteners 188 have been tightly secured as aforesaid, the assembled goalpost is rigidly anchored in place on foundation 156.

The final step in the installation procedure is to swing padlock door 148 upwardly relative to hinge pin 150, as shown in Figure 18, to the closed position shown in Figure 20. Spacers 184 and 186 provide sufficient clear¬ ance between outer flaps 142 and foundation top plate 160 to allow door 148 to swing as aforesaid. Padlock door 148 has an aperture 190 formed therein for accommodating the nut portion 178 of fastener 174 when door 148 is swung to the fully closed position. The hasp of a conventional padlock 192 may be inserted through hasp aperture 180 formed on nut portion 178 to lock padlock door 148 in the closed position (Figure 20) .

As shown best in Figures 17 and 18, padlock door 148 preferably has a recessed portion 194 so that padlock 192 extends substantially flush with the external surface of frame- element outer tube 102 in the locked position. Further, in the fully erected position, the outer tube 102 of the bottom frame element 100 extends substantially flush

with foundation top plate 160. This ensures that no portions of the anchor means protrude outwardly to pose a potential safety hazard and further ensures that the erected goalpost has a sleek, continuous profile.

As should be apparent from Figure 20, when padlock door 148 is locked in the fully closed position, it is not possible for unauthorized personnel to gain access to threaded fasteners 188 which releasably couple outer flaps 142 to foundation top plate 160. Accordingly, it is not possible for unauthorized personnel to adjust the assembled goalpost from the fully erected position to a inoperative position resting on the playing field surface. This ensures that the assembled goalpost cannot be disass- embled by thieves or vandals when it is left in the erected position for a long period of time, such as an entire football or soccer season.

As explained above, even when the assembled goalpost is adjusted to the inoperative position, the separate frame elements 100 cannot be decoupled without custom tooling 134, as shown in Figure 13. This provides a further level of security preventing unauthorized disas¬ sembly of the goalpost.

Figure 21 illustrates an alternative foundation 156 for removably anchoring an assembled goalpost to a playing field. In this embodiment of the invention, foundation 156 consists of an inverted U-shaped bracket 195 which is anchored in a hole dug in the playing field so that the planar, top plate 196 of bracket 195 is substan¬ tially level with the playing field surface. Bracket top plate 196 is equivalent to foundation top plate 160 shown best in Figures 17 and 18, except that nuts 166 and 168 are not welded to the undersurface of plate 196 beneath aper¬ tures 162 and 164. Rather, a separate fastener plate 198 is provided having apertures 200 and 202 for threadably

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receiving fastener 182 and fasteners 188 respectively. The advantage of this embodiment of the anchor means is that fastener plate 196 can be removed from foundation 156 when not in use for long periods of time, such as during the winter months. By contrast, nuts 166 and 168 welded to the undersurface of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 18 may corrode over time when left exposed to the elements.

Foundation top plates 160 (Figure 17) and 196 (Figure 21) are preferably covered with a piece of remov¬ able turf when not in use. This ensures that plates 160, 196 will not pose a safety hazard when the playing field is used for other sporting activities.

As indicated above, the square outer tube 102 of each frame element 100 preferably has a longitudinally extending slot 108 formed on one of its side surfaces (Figure 23) . Slot 108 is defined between opposed rails 204 of frame element 100. Various goalpost accessories may be releasably coupled to selected frame elements 100 by inserting a mating track or plate into slot 108.

Figures 22 and 23 illustrate an elongated net track accessory 136 which is slidably insertable within a corresponding slot 108. Net track 136 preferably includes a flat rectangular surface 206 which is recessed relative to the longitudinal edges 208 of track 136. As shown in Figure 23, longitudinal edges 208 have a stepped profile in cross-section and include rims 209 extending co-planar with recessed surface 206. One end of the net track 136 may be mitred to fit into corner portions of the goalpost.

A plurality of net hooks 210 are spaced apart at regular intervals on net track surface 206. Net hooks 210 are provided to enable netting to be easily secured to the assembled goalpost without the need for additional fas¬ teners or hooks. Since surface 206 is recessed within slot ~ t. ij i iSTITUTI , IK! *

108, net hooks 210 extend flush or close to flush with rims 209 (Figure 23) .

The exterior cylindrical surface of frame element inner tube 102 exposed within slot 108 may include a pair of parallel, longitudinally extending ribs 212. Ribs 212 are provided for slidably engaging net track recessed surface 206 thereby causing net track 136 to flex as it is slid within slot 108. This ensures a tight frictional fit between the longitudinal edges 208 of net track 136 and opposed rails 204 on a corresponding frame element 100 (Figure 23) .

Since net track surface 206 is recessed, an additional flanged accessory may be optionally fitted within slot 108 between net track rims 209 and the inner surface of rails 204 after net track 136 has been inserted as described above. For example, a pair of rearwardly extending frame accessories (not shown) could be mounted at either end of the goalpost for draping the net. One flanged end of each accessory would be insertable into a slot 108 of a frame element 100 forming part of the goal¬ post cross bar and another flanged end of the accessory would be insertable in a slot 108 of a separate frame element 100 forming part of the goalpost support post.

Frame elements 100 may also be optionally as¬ sembled to form a free-standing goalpost. In this embodi¬ ment a pair of endfra es may be formed for maintaining respective goalpost support posts in a vertical orienta¬ tion. Preferably each endframe is releasably securable to a corresponding support post using a flanged connector insertable into slot 108 of a frame element 100 as de¬ scribed above.

A plurality of goalpost frame elements 100 may be optionally coupled together in the manner illustrated in

Figures 11-15 to form a regulation size soccer goal (see Table 1 for dimensions) . Figures 24-26 illustrate a further sub-kit of accessories connectible within slot 108 of selected frame elements 100 for converting a regulation size soccer goalpost to a "H-style" football goalpost. With reference to Figure 24, the lower soccer crossbar 214 is formed from a plurality of frame elements 100 each having a slot 108 extending longitudinally on one side surface of square outer tube 102. Slots 108 are aligned when adjacent frame elements 100 are coupled together (Figure 24) .

An upper football crossbar 216 is mountable above lower crossbar 214 as shown in Figure 24. Crossbar 216 may be assembled from a plurality of tubular frame elements 218 releasably connectible in the same fashion as frame el¬ ements 100. Unlike frame elements 100, some or all of frame elements 218 include a plurality of apertures 220 extending therethrough at spaced intervals. As discussed further below, apertures 220 are provided for receiving one of a pair of goalpost uprights 222. Each upright 222 may consist of a length of cylindrical tubing or a plurality of separate tubes securely coupled together. A pair of. circular caps 223 may also be provided to close the open upper ends of respective uprights 222.

The kit of goalpost accessories illustrated in Figure 24 may also include three crossbar supports sub- assemblies generally designated 224 for supporting upper crossbar 216 in a horizontal orientation a proper distance above lower crossbar 214. One support subassembly 224 is releasably coupled to a central portion of lower goalpost 214 and includes a short, upwardly projecting post 215 which is received in a central aperture 220 formed in upper crossbar 216 (Figure 24) . The other two crossbar support subassemblies 224 may be releasably coupled to end portions of lower crossbar 214, but may be slid inwardly as disc-

SUBSTITUTE

ussed further below to adjust the distance between uprights 222.

Figure 25 is a partially exploded representation of one crossbar support subassembly 224 when viewed from the rear of the assembled goalpost. Subassembly 224 includes a spacer tube 226. Spacer tube 226 may consist of one frame element 100 having an inner cylindrical tube 104 for slidably receiving the bottom end of an upright 222. Alternatively, upright 222 could be welded directly to the corresponding spacer tube 226.

A generally H-shaped custom casting 228 is welded to a rear, bottom portion of spacer tube 102 as shown in Figures 25 and 26. An aperture 230 extends through a central portion of casting 228. A padlock door 232 is hingedly coupled to the bottom end of casting 228 with a hinge pin 234. A clevis pin 236 is coupled to the upper end of casting 228. Pin 236 provides a convenient secure- ment point for ropes used to adjust the assembled goalpost between the inoperative position resting on the playing field surface and the fully erect position extending upwardly from a playing field foundation.

Crossbar support subassembly 224 further includes a connector plate 238 which is slidably insertable in slots 108 of assembled frame elements 100 forming the lower crossbar 214 (Figure 25) . Connector plate 238 has a centrally located internally threaded aperture 240. Casting 238, and integral spacer tube 102, is releasably secured to connector plate 238 with a fastener 241. Fastener 241 is inserted through casting aperture 230 and screwed into plate aperture 240. When fastener 241 is tightened, connecting plate 238 securely engages rails 204 of the frame element 100 in question.

TE SHEET

Each connector plate 238 is preferably inserted into slot 108 of a corresponding frame element 100 when the soccer goal is initially assembled. This avoids the need to partially disassemble the soccer goal in order to install the upper football crossbar 216.

Each crossbar support subassembly 224 is thus releasably securable at a selected longitudinal position on lower crossbar 214. Subassembly 224 may be locked at the selected longitudinal position by swinging padlock door 232 upwardly relatively to hinge pin 234 to the closed position shown in Figure 26. A conventional padlock 242 may then be inserted through a hasp aperture 244 formed on a tab 246 extending outwardly from casting 228. Door 232 has an aperture 248 located near its free end for accommo¬ dating tab 246 when door 232 is swung to the closed posi¬ tion (Figure 26) .

Locking door 232 in the closed position as aforesaid prevents access to fastener 241. Accordingly, it would not be possible for an authorized personnel to loosen fastener 241, which is necessary to slidably adjust the position of the corresponding crossbar support subassembly 224. Thus, door 232 and padlock 242 are designed to prevent tampering of the assembled goalpost in much the same manner as door 148 and padlock 192 of the lockable anchor means of Figure 20.

As shown best in Figure 26, casting 228 preferab- ly has a recessed portion for receiving door 232 in the closed position. This ensures that padlock 242 extends substantially flush with the rear exterior surface of casting 228 in the locked position.

With reference to Figure 24, upper crossbar 216 is connected above lower crossbar 214 as follows. First, the assembled soccer goalpost is pivoted to the inoperative

position resting on the playing field surface. A crossbar support subassembly 224 is releasably secured to a rear, central portion of lower goalpost 214. As shown in Figure 24, cylindrical post 215 preferably projects upwardly a short distance from the spacer tube 226 forming part of the centrally mounted subassembly 224.

The next step in the installation procedure is to secure the other two outer crossbar support subassemblies 224 to the two end portions of lower crossbar 214 on opposite sides of the centrally mounted subassembly 224. As indicated above, the upper ends of spacer tubes 226 of the end subassemblies 224 may be open for receiving a respective upright 222. Optionally, such uprights 222 could be welded directly to a corresponding spacer tube 226.

Upper crossbar 216 is then assembled by coupling frame elements 218 together and sliding the assembled crossbar 216 onto uprights 222 so that uprights 222 pass through selected apertures 220 formed in frame elements 218. Upper crossbar 216 is then slid relative to uprights 222 toward lower crossbar 214 until crossbar 216 engages the ends of spacer tubes 226 as shown in Figure 24. In this position, post 215 extends from the centrally mounted subassembly 224 into a central aperture of upper crossbar 216. Fastener 241 of each crossbar support subassembly 224 is then tightened and each door 232 is swung to the closed position and locked as discussed above.

Finally, the fully assembled H-style football goalpost is erected, such as by securing ropes to clevis pins 236 of subassemblies 224 (Figure 25) and pivoting the goalpost upwardly to the fully erected position. As illustrated in Figure 20, the goalpost may be securely locked in the erected position.

SUBS

In order to vary the distance between uprights 222 the assembled goalpost is pivoted to the inoperative position resting on the playing field surface and upper crossbar 216 is slid clear of uprights 222 as shown in dotted outline in Figure 24. The goalpost support sub¬ assemblies 224 secured at either end of lower crossbar 214 are unlocked and fasteners 241 are loosened. This enables sliding movement of subassemblies 224 and attached uprights 222 relative to lower crossbar 214. In particular, con- necting plate 238 of each subassembly 224 is slidable within the longitudinal slot 108 formed on the rear facing surface of the assembled frame elements 100 forming lower crossbar 214.

Subassemblies 224 are secured and locked in the adjusted position on lower crossbar 214 (Figure 26) and upper crossbar 216 is slid into place as described above. Uprights 222 will now extend through different apertures 220 formed in the frame elements 218 comprising upper crossbar 216. The goalpost is then pivoted relative to the foundation 156 anchored in the playing field and locked as shown in Figure 20.

The apertures formed in frame elements 218 of upper crossbar 216 are preferably spaced at appropriate intervals to enable adjustment of the spacing between uprights 222 to regulation distances suitable for pro¬ fessional, college, amateur and youth football (see Table 1) . The spacing between uprights 222 may also be adjusted for practice purposes, such as to improve kicking accuracy.

As should be apparent to someone skilled in the art, frame elements 100 may be connected in different combinations or subcombinations and used in conjunction with different accessories to form portable goalposts suitable for different sporting activities. For example,

custom frame elements 100 could be extruded for holding grasshockey backboards or for forming a lacrosse backstay.

Figure 27 illustrates a further alternative embodiment of the invention which consists of a kit for forming a free-standing goalpost which is readily collaps¬ ible. The Figure 27 kit is particularly designed for quick assembly and disassembly of a miniature sports goal suit¬ able for use by children or for practice purposes, although regulation size goals could be constructed in the same manner.

The support posts 250, upper crossbar 252 and lower cross bar 254 of the miniature goal shown in Figure 27 are each constructed from two or more tubular frame elements 256. As shown in Figure 29, frame elements 256 are releasably connectible in a similar fashion as frame elements 100 of Figures 11-15. In particular, frame elements 256 are interconnected by means of "coupling means" which extend axially between adjacent frame el¬ ements 256 and which is completely or substantially con¬ cealed within the interior of the frame elements 256 when they are fully coupled together.

With reference to Figure 29, the alternative embodiment of the coupling means includes a tubular recep¬ tacle 258 which is insertable into an open end of a corre¬ sponding frame element 256. Receptacle 258 is preferably dimensioned to snap tightly into place within frame element 256 and is not intended to be readily removable. To this end, receptacle 258 may include a tab 260 which is securely seated in a mating aperture 262 formed on frame element 256 when receptacle 258 is intitially installed.

Receptacle. 258 serves essentially the same function as inner tube 104 of frame element 100 illustrated in Figures 11-15. Accordingly, receptacle 258 includes a

slot 264 extending through a wall portion thereof. Slot 264 is designed to receive a bayonet pin 266 projecting a shor distance from a connector sleeve 268 having an oute diameter slightly less than the inner diameter of recep tacle 258.

A pair of frame elements 256 are releasabl coupled together by inserting each end of connector sleev 268 into a corresponding receptacle 258 pre-installed in frame element 256. The frame elements 256 to be joined ar then slid toward one another until each bayonet pin 266 i seated in a corresponding slot 264. Optionally, slot 264 may include a ramped wall 270 to ensure that pin 266 snap securely into an engaged position when a frame element 256 is slid axially relative to connector sleeve 268 as de scribed above and then rotated relative to sleeve 268.

Optionally, a shock cord 272 may be threade through connector sleeve 268 as shown in Figure 29 an secured to the inner ends of two receptacles 258. Recep tacles 258 are then inserted into respective frame element 256. This ensures that such frame elements 256 and con nector sleeve 268 will remain fastened together when th goalpost is collapsed.

As shown in Figure 27, when two frame element 250 are coupled together as described above, their exterio surfaces are substantially flush and continuous and con nector sleeve 268 is concealed within the interior thereof.

Of course, the length and number of frame el ements 256 could vary depending upon the intended use o the assembled goalpost. For example, the frame element 256 forming the lower part of support post 250 could b replaced with a longer frame element 256 if it is desire to raise the height of upper crossbar 252.

^{• •} v-

As should be apparent to someone skilled in the art, bayonet pins 266 could project from a central portion of sleeve 268 and slot 264 could be formed at the open end of receptacle 258 in a manner similar to the coupling means of Figures 11-15. As should also be readily apparent, receptacle insert 258 could be omitted entirely and slot 264 could be formed directly on frame element 256. How¬ ever, this would result in the assembled goalpost having a less sleek, continuous appearance when assembled.

In addition to frame elements 256, the miniature goalpost kit shown in Figure 27 also includes an endfra e subassembly generally designated 274 for supporting support post 256 in a vertical orientation (another subassembly 274 would also be provided at the opposite end of the goal) . Subassembly 274 includes an elongate tubular foot 276 which is releasably connectible to the lower end of support post 250 with a connector 278. Releasable connectors 278 are also used to couple the rear end of foot 276 to lower crossbar 254 and for coupling the upper end of support post 250 to upper crossbar 252. Preferably, each connector 252 includes a spring-loaded push button (not shown) which snaps into a mating aperture 280 formed in an end of the frame element 256 in question. The push button preferably extends substantially flush with the exterior surface of frame element 256 when a connector 278 has been coupled thereto. In order to decouple the components, the push button is depressed and the connector 278 is slid free of the corresponding frame element 256.

End frame subassembly 274 also includes a back¬ stay 282 which consists of two or more tubular frame elements 284 which are connectible end-to-end in a conven¬ tional fashion. An upper end of one frame element 284 may be fitted- over a cylindrical post 286 projecting rearwardly from the upper end of support post 250. A lower end of the other frame element 284 may be secured to a cylindrical

post 286 projecting upwardly from the rear end of foot 276. A shock cord 288 having either end secured to posts 286 may be threaded through frame elements 284 as shown in Figure 27.

Foot 276 may also include apertures 290 for driving a stake therethrough to anchor the assembled goalpost to a playing field. Additional apertures 292 are provided at spaced intervals for receiving plug-like net hooks 294 (Figure 28) . Net hooks 294 preferably snap into apertures 292 and are user installed. Frame elements 256 may also include apertures 292 for receiving net hooks 294 (Figure 29) .

The various kit components of the collapsible miniature goal illustrated in Figures 27-29 are preferab¬ ly constructed from light weight aluminum or plastic for maximal portability.

Figures 30-32 illustrate a further alternative embodiment of the invention which consists of a kit for forming either a free-standing or ground-anchored goalpost. In this embodiment, the goalpost support posts 298, upper crossbar 300 and lower crossbar 302 are preferably con- structed from a plurality of tubular frame elements 304, such as steel cylinders. Backstays 303 for maintaining support post 298 in a vertical orientation in the free¬ standing embodiment may be constructed from frame elements 304 or conventional tubing 305.

As shown in Figure 31, frame elements 304 are releasably connectible in a manner similar to the frame elements 100 of Figures 11-15 and frame elements 256 of Figures 27 and 29. In particular, frame elements 304 are interconnected by means of "coupling means" which may be concealed within the interior of frame elements 304 when they are interconnected.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET

In this embodiment, the coupling means may consist of an insert tube 306, similar to receptacle 258 of Figure 29, which is insertable into an open end of a corresponding frame element 304. Insert tube 306 is preferably dimensioned to snap tightly into place within frame element 304 and is not intended to be readily remov¬ able. To this end, insert tube 306 may include a tab 307 which is securely seated in a mating aperture 309 formed on a corresponding frame element 304 when insert tube 306 is installed at the factory.

Insert tube 306 includes at least one generally L-shaped slot 308 formed at its outer end for receiving one of a pair of bayonet pins 312 mounted on a connector sleeve 310. Sleeve 310 has an outer diameter slightly less than the inner diameter of insert tube 306. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 31, bayonet pins 312 are mounted on a central portion of sleeve 310. As should be apparent from the embodiment illustrated in Figure 29, pins 312 could also be mounted near the ends of sleeve 310 and corresponding mating slots 308 could be formed on an inner portion rather than an outer portion of each insert tube 306.

As shown in Figure 31, each.insert tube 306 could comprise a pair of oppositely disposed slots 308 and connector sleeve 310 could include two corresponding pairs of bayonet pins 312 projecting from opposite external surfaces thereof. Pins 312 could be rigid or resilient in different variations of the invention.

A pair of frame elements 304 are releasably coupled together by inserting each end of connector sleeve 310 into an insert tube 306 pre-installed in a correspon¬ ding frame element 304 and sliding frame elements 304 toward one another until connector pin 312 is seated in an

entrance portion of a corresponding slot 308. Frame elements 304 are then rotated relative to sleeve 310 until each bayonet pin 312 is securely engaged in an end portion of the corresponding slot 308. Thus, as in the Figure 12 and Figure 29 embodiments of the coupling means described above, frame elements 304 are releasably coupled together by a combination of axial and rotational movements.

A tool (not shown) could be used to turn frame elements 304 relative to a corresponding connector sleeve 310. The end of the tool could be insertable, for example, in a mating aperture formed in tab 307 (Figure 31) .

During assembly of the goalpost of Figure 30 the installer will reach the point where he is unable to rotate a selected frame element 304 of one subassembly relative to an adjacent frame element 304 of another subassembly in order to engage the coupling means as described above. That is, the structures of the subassemblies themselves will resist twisting. In order to overcome this diffi¬ culty, a modified connector sleeve 314 may be employed for connecting such frame elements 304 together. As shown in Figure 32, modified sleeve 314 may consist of a ring 316 rotatably coupled to the main cylindrical body 318 of sleeve 314. One of the bayonet pins 312 is mounted on ring 316 so that such pin 312 may be manually rotated relative to sleeve body 318. Ring 316 includes a substantially annular adjustment sleeve 320. Another sleeve 320 is fixed to sleeve body 318 immediately adjacent the rotatable sleeve (Figure 32) . One end of each sleeve 320 has a tab 322 extending therefrom having a hasp aperture 324.

In use, one frame element 304 is slid over connector sleeve main body 318 until one bayonet pin 312 is located in the entrance of a corresponding slot 308 ^" and the end of frame element 304 abuts against adjustment sleeve

320. Sleeve 314 is then rotated until bayonet pin 312 is

securely engaged within slot 308 as discussed above. The other frame element 304 is slid over the opposite end of sleeve main body 318 and the adjustment sleeve 320 is then manually turned as shown in Figure 32a so that ring 316, and attached bayonet pin 312, rotates relative to frame element 304. Ring 316 is rotated until bayonet pin 312 is securely engaged in a mating slot 308 as described above.

When two frame elements 304 have been coupled together as described above, the outer surface of adjust¬ ment sleeves 320 preferably extends flush with the outer surface of frame elements 304 as shown in Figure 32b. In this position tabs 322 are aligned. A padlock 326 may then be inserted through hasp apertures 324 to prevent tampering of the assembled goalpost.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, both bayonet pins 312 could be mounted on a respective rotatable ring 316.

As shown in Figure 30, a free-standing goalpost may be assembled from a plurality of frame elements 304. using a combination of standard connectors (Figure 31) and lockable rotary connectors (Figure 32) , and standard male/female couplings in respect of backstays 303.

The use of padlocks 326 mean the entire goalpost frame shown in Figure 30 cannot be disassembled without corresponding keys. Accordingly, the assembled goalpost is vandal-resistant. As should also be apparent from Figure 30, backstays 303 are also not removable without unlocking padlocks 326. The assembled goalpost shown in Figure 30 is symmetrical and may be pivoted to provide two different sizes of goalposts (if the rearwardly extending tubes at either end of the goalpost are of a different length than support posts 298) .

Cylindrical frame elements 304 may also be assembled as discussed above to form a ground-anchored rather than a free-standing goalpost. In this embodiment, "anchor means" are provided for pivotally coupling a bottom portion of one of the frame elements 304 to a foundation 156 pre-installed in the playing field in question. As discussed above, this enables the assembled goalpost to be pivoted between an inoperative position resting on the playing field surface and an erected position extending upwardly from foundation 156.

Figures 33-35 illustrate a further alternative embodiment of the anchor means specifically designed for use in association with the cylindrical frame elements 304 illustrated in Figures 30-32. In this embodiment, one frame element 304 (or a custom hinge post) is connected to a hinge plate subassembly generally designated 330. Subassembly 330 includes a stiffener tube 332 having a first disc-shaped plate 334 mounted on its lower end. Plate 334 is hingedly connectible to a second disc-shaped mounting plate 336. In particular, a hinge pin 338, extending in a recess formed in plate 334, is insertable through a borehole 340 machined through a block 342 mounted on an upper surface of mounting plate 336.

Mounting plate 336 is releasably fastenable to foundation 156 anchored in the playing field in question. Foundation 156 may consist of an inverted U-shaped bracket 195 having a top plate 196 level with the playing field surface (Figure 21) . In the Figure 33 embodiment, founda¬ tion 156 also includes a removable fastener plate 198 having a threaded aperture 200. Mounting plate 336 is coupled to fastener plate 198 by passing a threaded fas- tener 346 through apertures 348 and 350 formed in plate 336 and bracket 195 respectively.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET

In one embodiment of the invention, stiffener tube 332 and plate 334 are inserted into frame element 304, as shown in Figure 34, and welded in place. Before insert¬ ing tube 332 and plate 334 as aforesaid, a padlock sliding door 352 is inserted within frame element 304. Access to sliding door 352, which is captured within frame element 304, is provided by a cut-out 354 formed in element 304. Slidable door 352 includes apertured plates 356 for lock- ably coupling door 352 to a padlock plate 358 mounted in the interior of frame element 304.

As shown in Figures 34 and 35, when the goalpost is pivoted about hinge pin 338 from the inoperative to the erected position, plate 334 may be releasably fastened to a nut 360 mounted on the upper surface of mounting plate 336 by means of a fastener 362. In order to screw fastener 362 into position, it is necessary to hold slidable door 352 in a raised position as shown in Figure 34. Fastener 362 is passed through an aperture 363 formed in plate 334 and is secured to nut 360. Padlock door 352 is then lowered and secured to mounting plate 358 with a padlock 364 as shown in Figure 35. In the locked position shown in Figure 35 door 352 blocks access to fastener 362 to prevent unauthorized disassembly of the erected goalpost.

In the fully erected configuration shown in Figure 35, the assembled goalpost has a smooth continuous appearance and no portions of hinge plate subassembly 330 extend outwardly of cylindrical frame element 304.

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art in the light of the foregoing disclosure, many alterations and modifications are possible in the practice of this inven¬ tion without departing from the spirit or scope thereof. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is to be construed in accordance with the substance defined by the following claims.

SUBSTITUTE SHEE