GB2464406A - Rebound training apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

A portable rebound (or deflecting) sports training device having at least a first rebound panel (801-4) or surface adapted to rebound a ball away from the device, and a support structure (805, 806, 807, 808) adapted to hold the panel in a first, operational condition in which the panel is held generally upright; the panel and the support structure having a second, transport or storage, configuration relative to each other such that the panel and support structure lie flatter (or generally flat) relative to each other in the direction transverse to the rebound panel such that the device occupies less space.

Description

Rebound Sports Training Apparatus

Field of the irentioi

Many people will have played a game where a football is kicked against a brick wall andthcrcbnundis two touches). ThIs game can be played by a single player or by more than one pyer, for example taking it in nirnB to kick the ball. The game helps to develop ball control skills and the Skills ir estiinting the timing of running to intht a ball.

Unfortunately, there is not always a brick wall to hand. Some walls have windows.

Some are next to roads. SQTUe are simply not present (eg in the middle of a field).

An aim of one embodiment of tIz invention is to provide a sports training rebound apparatus that is portable and can be conveniently moved auid positioned in whatever desired location.

The invention is not restricted to football training apparatus, for example, cricket and hockey are also specifically envisaged as applications.

Summary of invention

The scope of the protection for this invention(s) is defined in thc claims.

As mentioned, it is a typical pastime and training drill for people (children, young adults and old adults) who play ball sports (such as football/soccer) to project a ball toward a surface such as a wall and fbr the ball to rebound back to them fbr them then to repeat the exercise. This invention gives people the opportunity to practice this type of drill in a number of different itmmpa with one or a number of wall type surfaces avaihbin Some embodiments of the invention are designed to be able to be assembled from fiat pack and dissembled such that the Rebound Boxes can be used anywhere For example one typical constraint of a child using a walled area in say a garden is that the wall is normally fixcd. This can result in a grassed area getting repeated use which causes excessive wear in some areas eg rnnddy areas. The mobility of the Rebound Box means that it can be moved to different locations thereby reducing the excessive wear in certain areas. Of additional benefit is the ability to use one or a number of Rebound Boxes in uninin drills with one or a number of people participating. The design of Rebound Box is such that the surfaces of the box may be tint or any mimber of diffrent surface shapes, This variety of shapes gives the participants increased enjoyment and challenge in accommodating the path of the ball having rebounded from the Rebound Box or been deflected by a surface of the Rebound Box. The mobility of the Rebound Box means that it can be used onsayfoothall traminggrounds inawaythat afixedwaliwoulduothavethe convenience to provide. The invention gives participants unlimited imagination in the way to use one or a number of Rebound Boxes for thilning drills or for fim. The Rebound Box is not limited to its use in fbotball, but can be used in anyway where a surface would be fun and/or usciW in rebounding or deflecting a ball. For example, it could be deployed in one form as a cricket training drill device.

List of FiguzfDiagrems Figure 1 An example use for an embodiment of the invention Figure 2 An example construction of the Rebound Box Figure 2A An example of the contents of the Rebound Box witen packaged Figure 3 A fuither example construction of the Rebound Box Figure 4 Example surfaces of the 1.ebound Box FigureS Further example uthces of the Rebound Box Figure 6 Example joining method for the panels comprising the Rebound Box Figure 7 Further example of the con1ruction of the Rebound Box FigureS Cross section view of one example of the Rebound Box Figure KA Cross section ofa method of a1xing panelsof the Rebound Box Figure 8B Cios& section of a method of affixing panels of the Rcbound Box Figure 9 Finiher example of cross section view of the Rebound Box Figure 10 Example operational use of two Rebound Boxes Figure 11 Example operational use cit three Rebound Boxes Figure 12 Further example operational use of three Rebound Boxes Figure 13 Further example operational use of three Rebound Boxes with foist players Figure 14 Example operational use of two Rebound Boxes and two players training on a football pitch area Figure 15 Example operational use of four Rebound Boxes and onc player training on a football pitch ea Figure 16 Example operational use of two pairs of Rebound Boxes in a stacked formation Figure 17 Further example of the construction of the Rebound Box Figure 18 Example corner block fixing mechanism for Iwo panels of the Rebound Box Figure 19 Example operational effect of the Rebound Box where two panels are not parallel Figure 2() Example operational use of the Rebound Box with four players in a cricket training drill Figure 21 Example construction of the Rebound Box Figure 22 Example locaiirs of holes in panel through whichbolts can be inscrtrxi Figure 23 Cross sectional end views of 3 example Rebound Boxes Figure 24 Cross sectional end views of a further 3 example Rebound Boxes Figure 25 Cross sectional end view of an example Rebound Box with example impact points of balls projected towards the Rebound Box Figure 26 Cross sectional end view of an example triangular Rebound Box with example impact points of balls projected towards the Rebound Box Figure 27 Cross sectinnal end views of a further 3 example Rebound Boxes showing boxes can be rotated to sit on different panel sides Figure 28 Overhead angled view of example Rebound Box Figure 29 Ciuss sectional view of example Rebound Box Figure 30 Figure depicting deployment of connection rods Figure 31 Example of Rebound Box Figure 32 Example of Rebound Box with feet Figure 33 Example of differing sitting positions of Rebound Box Figure 34 F'ample construction of Rebound Box Figure 35 Example constniction cit Rebound Box LI.

Figure 36 Example construction of Rebound Box Figure 37 Examplc construction of Rebound Box Figure 38 Example construction of Rebound BOX Figure 39 Indicative diagrani of one moment of impact of a ball with Rebound Box panel Figure 40 Indicitive diagram of one moment of' impact of a ball with Rebound Box panel

S

Dcscripuon of the invention Figure 1 shows the Rebound Box 101 where a bail 102 is projected tcwads the Rebound Box and the ball rebounds off one of the sides of the Rebound Box. This is a typical effect for which the Rebound Box is used.

A Rebound Box is shown in Figure 2. It has an elongate square section hollow tunnel shapchav ng anelongate]engthof between 100 and 200cms long by 4Ocmsto 80 ems tifl. It is made from four metal (eg steel) panels 206, 208,210, 212, each of which is substantially verticaL Screws Or boLts 214, in this case pairs of screws or bolts, zeleasably fasten an edge region 216 of one panel to an edge region 218 of the adjacent panei, when the Rebound Box is assembkxl as shown in Figure 2. The screws or bolts 214 may screw into bores in the regions 218 themselves, or into mounting blocks (not shown) provided at the regions 218, or into some other fixture.

TheReboundBox2O0isflrstsuppiiedoawe&,1ed inaflatpackkithaving the four identical panels 206, 208, 210,212. and screws or bolts 214. Instructions, eg a sheet of imtructions 213, showing how to assemble the Rebound Box 200, may be included. The panels 206, 208, 210,212 are provided, typically, one above the other, in iegistration and may be strapped or bound or otherwise held together. The instructions may include further instructions 215 giving details offlith'ing excrcises that can be performed using the Rebound Box. The nstructions 213 and 215 may be on paper (eg the same or different pamphlet) or on computer readable media.

Figure 2A shows the Rebound Box in transportation state, in a kit 220. The kit 220 can be transported flat packed easily and assembled later, eg in situ at its position of use. It can also be disassembled and flat packed again for transportation or storage.

In Figure 2 the Rebound Box 201 may have holes in the sides depicted by 202 which act as hand holds allowing the Rebound Box to be more easily moved or picked up. In addition the Rebound Box may have additional weights inserted inside the box such as bags filled with sand or plastic containers filled with water which give the Rebound Box additional stability and solidity from which a projected ball will rebound The kit 220 may include empty containers, eg bags, for fihlin with sand or water or the like.

Alternatively, the weight of the box may, On its own, be enough to enable the box to be used effectively (for example if the box is made of metal, eg steel).

In Figure 3 the Rebound Box 301 may be open ended or have a further end piece 302 in one or both ends of the Rebound Box, possibly closing the end and/or providing additional rigidity.

In Sorrie embodiments, the panels (when mounted together/ when the box is assembled) have a degree ofresilience such that they have a spiingboard effect when a ball hits the middle region cia panel, augmenting the pace of the reboundideflection from the panel. They can flex when smick by the ball and flex back, adding power to the returning balL In Figure 4 the four sides of the Rebound Box may have outward (and inward) facing surfaces whtch arc differing. Figure 4 depicts some examples of the differing outwaxd facing surfaces that the Rebound Box may have. 401 depicts a flat surface. 402 depicts a variable shaped surface (or rippled surface). 403 depicts a concave surface.

404 depicts a convex surface. 405 depicts a further variable shaped surface. Thcre arc an unlimited number of stce shapes that the Itebound Box may suppoit Where the Rebound Box has end faces these also may have varying shaped surfaces to either one orboth ends.Ethpanelsmayormaynotbeprovidedinthe kit22O.

Although Figure 4 shows the inner face of the panels as flax, the inn ce of the panels could be profiled or shaped to import rebound/deflection characteristics. For example, one or more inner surfaces may be profiled, for example with any of the panels of Figure 4, or "cobbled effecr to give an tmpredicmble bounce/rebound in the vertical and hori2onta] �rections or vertical ribs to give variation in angle of rebound Iii the horizontal plane. The panels may be reversible (whether profiled on both sides or not), so as to be able to be assembled into the box with either of their panel surfaces facing outwards.

FigureS shows the overhead view of example surfaces of the sides of the Rebound Box. 501 depicts a concave surface. 502 depicts a convex surface. 503 depicts a flat surface. 504 and 505 depict variable shaped surfaces. There are an unlimited number of surface shapes that the Rebound Box may support. The point of Figure 4 and FigureS is to demonstrate that the surface shapes of the sides of the Rebound Box may vary in both the end view and plan view perspectives. Where the Rebound Box has end faces these also may have varying shaped surfaces in both the eross sectional and plan perspectives.

The assembly of the Rebound Box may be in a nnmber of ways. For convenience it is inrerided tlt the Rebound Box cm be readily assembled and diassexnbIed into a flat pack state which allows it to be readily stored and transported. Figure 6 depicts one example of how the sides may be assembled through ajoinling mechsiiiii.

A first panel 602 has an array of teeth 604 at one longitudinal edge 606 which interlock in an interleaved manner, with complementary array of teeth 608 at edge 610 of another panel 612 in the manner oftermonjoints The other edges of its panels 602 and 612 may also have tennon joints, or may be joined to other panels 614 and 616, shown schematically. in some other way (eg screws, or hinges).

Screws'bolts/other fasteners may be used in conjunction with the tennon joints.

The dimensions of the Rebound Box are urmliinited. The Rebound Box can be both a retangu1ar box shape or a square box shape or part zectangular shape or part box shape. The skies and other parts used in the Rcbound Box may be of differing materials. The Rebound Box may be of metal, wood or plastic construction or a combjnatio of a number of material types. Typically, the materia.Is used would be imtherently weather resistant (for example a tough plastic material) or the materials would be treated with a weather protecting finish (for example a paint with weather resistant properties). Typically, a RcbuucJ Box would have a length range of between 50cm and 200cm with a height of around 40cm to 100cm (possibly the range beight= 30cm or 50cm to 150cm, say 50cm, 70cm, 90cm, 100cm, 110cm, 120cm, or 140cm; and length=lOOcmn or 90cm or 200cm or 125cm, or 150cm, or 175cm, orthereabouls.

These dimensions can vary. An overall weight of approximately 30kg wouLd be typical (perhaps in range between about 10kg and about 50kg, with 20kg, 25kg, 30kg, 35kg being more typical). In many embodiments a single average man should be able to transport the box and it should be able to fit into the back of a ear, fbr earnple with the rear scala folded down.

Figure 7 shows one example of the design of Rebound Box where there is a frame structure to which the sides of Rebound Box can be fixed. The sides may be held to the frame structure with screws or other types of fixing facilities such as clips or bolts.

The flame structure comprises a peripheral box frame. This may be supplied as two rectangularfpolygon side frames and a number of connecthg siruts (eg 4 struts) to connect the pre-asseinbied side frames. This can help to flat pack it. There is space inside the frame structure/box which may be used to hold things (eg corner flags, training bibs, balls -things that may be ed in soccer training).

Figure 8 depicts a cross section of one example of the construction of the Rebound Box where the sides of the Rebound fox 801, 802, 803 & 804 arc fixcd/beld to thy frame 805, 806, 807 & 808.

The frame 805, 806, 807, 808 comprises an extended metal (eg steel, alumiaiwn) profile provided with recessed channels 810, best seen in Figure 8A. The thails 810 have a parallel, a piped truncated arrow cross section, with rebate portions 812 and an entrance portion 814.

Figure 8B shw a connector piece 820 having a complementary truncated arrow shaped cross-section with projecting portions 822 which are received in rebates 812, in use. The connector piece 820 also has a boss portion 824 which extetds through entrance portion 814 in use, and which is internally screw threaded, referenced 826, to receive a screw 828. Screw 828 fastens apanel 801, 802, 803, 804 to the connector piece 820 and hence to the frame.

The frames 805, 806, 807, 808 may have a profiled cross section shown in Figure 8A for thezr entire length, or just at their ends only, or at spaced positions along their length. Similarly, the entire edge of the panels could have a complementary inter-engaging cross section as shown in Figure SB, or only at spaced regions along their lcnglh which in use engage with cornp[enientaiy formations in the frame, for example at their endsdgL the longitudinal ends of their edges and/or in between. It will be appreciated that the male fiimntions (eg connector pieces 820) are slid into the pofUcd channels 810.

Figure 9 depicts a cross section of a further example of the construction of the Rebound Box where the sides of the Rebound Box 901,902,903 & 904 are fixed/held to the frame905, 906, 907& 908.

Figure 10 depicts how two Rebound Boxes may be used. The arrows pointing towards the Rebound Boxes depict an example of the path taken by a ball when projected toward the Rebound Box. The an-ows pointing away from the Rebound Box depint an example of the path taken as the ball rebounds from the Rebound Boxes. The piojection of the baU towards the Rebound Box i5 typically achieved by a person kicking the ball. The path taken by the ball rebounding from the Rebound Boxes wilt be affected by the surface of the Rebound Box to which the hail is being projected.

Fox example the curved or irregular face on the Rebound Box will cause the ball to rebound differently to the flat face on the Rebound Box.

Figure 11 depicts one example of how three Rebound Boxes may be used. The dual pointed arrows overlayeci with a ball pointing towards the Rebound Boxes depict an example of the path taken by a ball when projected towards each of the Rebound Boxes. In this example the Player 1101 is projecting the bait (typically as a kick at the ball) towards the Rebound Boxes in turn or possible in a random sequence. On the ball rebounding backthe Player 1101 then projects the bail atthe same or oneof the other Rebound Boxes.

Figure 12 depicts a further example of how three Rebound Boxes may be used. The dual pointed arrows overlayed with a ball pointing towards the Rebound Boxes depict an cxiwiplc of the path taken by a bail when projected towards eab of the Rebound Boxes. lii this example the Player 1201 is projecting the ball (typically as a kick at the ball) towards the Rebound Boxes intwn or possible in a random sequence. On the balirebounding backthe Player 1201 thenprojects the ball atthe sanie or oncof the oth Rebound Boxes.

Figure 13 depicts a furiber example of how thee Rebound Boxes may be used. The dual pointed arrows overlayerl with a ball pointing towards the Rebound Boxes depict an example of the path taken by a ball when projected towards each of the Rebound Boxes. In this example there are 4 players labelled P1, P2, P3 and P4. In ibis example in addition to players P1,P2 and P3 having the optionto project the ball towards the Rebound Buxes there is also the option to project the ball towards player P4.

Typically, the drill in Figure 13 would be conducted with 3 footballs in play.

Figure 14 is an overview of a football pitch area where the Rebound Boxes are used in a drill 1icre Player P1 and Player P2 projectthe ball toward the Rebound Box and theit attempt to project die ball towards the goal after it has rebounded from the Rebound Box. The single pointed arrows depict an example of the path taken by the bail during this drill.

Figure 15 is an overview of a football pitch area where the Rebound Boxes are used in a drill whcrv Player Pt projects the ball toward the Rebound Box and then attempts to project the ball toward a further Rebound Box. In this example drill there are 4 Rebound Boxes where Player Pt having projected the ball toward the Rebound Box closest to the goal then attempts to project the ball toward the goal. The arrows indicate a typical path that the ball may follow during this drill.

Figure 16 depicts how the Rebound Boxes may be fastened to position on top of each other or fastened to each other so that one (or more) sits on top of each other thereby increasing the size and height of the rebound area. The arrows depict a typical path that the ball may follow when projected toward the Rebound Boxes. Although Figure 16 has two boxes shown, one could stack 2,3, Or4 or more. Also envisaged is placing them end to end, possibly fastened, to fonn a wall.

Figure 17 depicts one example of the construction of the Rebound Box. Side panels of the Rebound Box 1705 and 1706 have holes in each Corner of the panels. The panels are then held in a firm position in relation to each other by the use of bolts screwed q into corner blocks 1701, 1702, 1703 and 1704. The two other panels not shown in Figure 17 would be held in position using the same type of corner block fixing.

Additionally, end panels could be fixed by the same means.

Figure 18 shows one corner of the example Rebound Box construction depicted in Figure 17. Side panels 2001 and 2002 are held in position by bolts 2003 and 2004 which are screwed Into tenon nuts 2005 and 2006. Tenon nuts are slid into position along chfih1tli!I$ within the corncr block 2007.

Figure 19 depicts an overhead view of the path of a ball where tba ball is projected towards one exaniple construction of the Rebound Box 1901 and the ball is deflected off one of the surIhces of the Rebound Box. An example of how this particular example of a Rebound Box amy be used is where a person practtsing their bowling at cricket bowls the ball towards the Rebowul Box and the deflected ball is caught by a person who is practising their mtching situafrd behind and to the side of the Rebound Box, As with the general design principle oftheRebound8oxtlic surface ofihe Rebound Box in this particular example could be flat or one of a nwnber of surface shapes which produce slightly different vanations in the path nken by the ball on being deflected by the Rebound Box surface. In this peiticular example in the use of thelteboundBoxjtis atandingonend.

It will be seen that the ball, or projectile, can rebound back in the genetul direction from which it came, or can be deflected, but still travel forwards "Rebound" is not meant necessarily to limit things to the ball returning to towards the player, but it can often mean that.

Figure 20 depicts an example use of the Rebound Box 2003 in the context of cricket.

Figure 20 is an overhead view ofa cricket playing area. Players P1, P2 and P3 are positioned behind and to the side of the cricket stumps 2001. Player P4 bowls the ball towards the stumps 2001 in front of which the Rebound Box 2003 is positioned. The position of the Rebound Box 2003 is in fate area where a batsxncn would typically attentpt to strike a ball bowled towards wickets 2001. The bowled bail is deflected by the Rebound Box towards players P1, P2 and P3 who practice catching and fielding the ball. The height and width of the Rebound Box is variable but typically would be of a height and width which would present an area consistent with the area within which a baLsman would typically strike a bowled cricket ball. The benefit afforded by the Rebound Box in this particular example is that bowlers can prantice bowling the ball at particular areas in the direction of the wicket. Additionally, fielders can practice the catching of the ball wberea bataman may intentionally or not intentionally hit the ball. The lines witb wrows and a ball shaped overlayed depict an example path taken by the ball when projected towards end deflected by the Rebound Box 2003.

In some embodiments the weight of the Rebound Box itself will be enough (Ic no interl ballast required). for example, if thc panels and/or the frame is made of metal.

Basketball is another sport where a portable rebound sports training device find a use.

Throw-ins can be practiced in football using the Rebound Box to bounce the ball back/deflect it on to another player.

Pigure 21 depicts one example of the construion of the Rebound Box, showing aljjve/jdjLjoij features. Side panels of the Reboundflox 2105 and 2106 have boles in each corner of the panels and/or at one or multiple points along the length of the panels. The panels are then held i a fIrn position in relation to each other by the tc of bolts inserted through the boles in the panels and screwed into blocks 2101, 2102,2103.2104 and 210?. The two other panels not shown in Figure 21 would be Icld in. position using the same type of block fixing at points along the panel length.

Each block assists in 5ecurixtg two adjacent panels typically and approximately at right angles to each other. Additionally end panels could be fixed by the same means.

Figure 22 depicts a plan view of a panel with 2206 indIcating example locations when boles can be made in the panel through which bolts can be inserted and screwed to blocks.

Figure 23 depicts the cross sec1lcnal endview of 3 Rebound Boxes 2301,2302 and 2303. Figure 23 shows how the Rebound Boxes can be rutted to sit on different panel sides thereby allowing differing side panels to be offered in the vertical and horiznntal planes. The purpose of this is to de ionstrat how a single Rebound Box can support a number of differing panel sides whic.h would provide differing rebound or deflection effects to a ball projected towards each of the panel sides.

Figure 24 depicts the cross sectional end view of 3 Rebound Boxes 2401,2402 end 2403 where each of the Rebound Boxes comprise 3 panels with the panels of ascii Rebound Box being joined by triangularjointing blocks. Figure 24 shows how the Rebound Boxes can be rotated to sit on difirent panel sides thereby allowing differing side panels to be offered in the upright planes. The purpose of this is to demonstrate how a single Rebound Box can support a number of differing panel sides which would provide differing rebound or deflection effects to a ball projected towards each of the panel sides.

Figure 25 shows some examples of the impact points a ball may have whet' balls are projected towards the panels of a 4 panelled Rabound B0L It will be seen that the panels referenced 2501 hi Figure 25 have a number of points or ridges 2502 separated by troughs 2503. The panels are, in this example, made of sheet steel,but they could be made of plastic, or suitable material. The points 2502 are SpIend apart by a distance 2504 that is generally the same between adjacent points.

The spacing 2504 is such that a normal adult sized football engages/contacts one or at most two, points (in this example) when it bounces off (impacts with) the panel.

The points act as rigid fingers wiich poke iutO the ball, deflecting the swface of the ball materials. This helps the ball to spring away from the "fingers" (ridges) of the points 2502 -assisting the bounce/rebound characteristics of the panel box.

It will be appreciated that if there axe too many fingers/points 2502 too close together, the effect will get cLoser and closer to using a flat rebound surface.

In other embodiments the points 2502 may be so far apart that the ball can only encounter one at a time. In another embodiment three points can be encountered at a time -but two points is what is preftrred. This mvai a spacing of about 3 cm, or 4cm, 5cm, or 6cm, or 7cm, or 8cm, in some embodiments.

Also of note is the arrangement shown in Figures 24 and 26-three sided boxes. A thangular box is envisaged. It still has a space inside and can still be rolled over to present different surfaces. Equilateral triangles, isosceles triangles, scalene, obtuse or acute angled triangles are envisaged -any sort of tthanglc.

The panels may, of course, be removable and replaceable.

The points may be elongated ridges or cornigatlons. They may be discrete islands of point/projections, not elongate ridges necessarily. For example they may be like the surface of a pineapple or a regular paiiem, preferably pointed, bosses, for example cone-shaped or pyramid-shaped.

The points may be formed at the apex of generally V-shaped ridge; with generally flat sides to the It will be appreciated that the "point.?' idea, and the three-sided box idea, can be used in conjunction with any other features, or combination offeatures, described herein. %2.

Figure 26 shows some examples of the impact points a ball may have when balls are projected towaids the panels of a 3 panelled Rebound Box.

Figure 27 depicts the cross sectional overhead VieW of 3 Rebound Boxes 2701,2702 and 2703 nnding vertically on end. Figure 27 shows how the Rebound Boxes can be stood on end thereby allowing differing side panels surfaces to be offered in the vertical planes.

Figure 28 is an angled overhead view of one example of construction of a Rebound Box whe two panels 2801 and 2802 are joined by three connector pieces 2803 vihere the edges of the panels are in ciosest proximity. The panels are held firm with connection rods 2804 fixed between fixed connector pieces 2805. The connection rods may for example be made of metal or toughened plastic and be held to the connector pieces 2805 with screw nuts.

Figure 29 is a cross sectional view of the two panel Rebound Box depicted in Figure 28 with panels 2903 and 2904. Figure 29 shows how the connection rod 2902 is held by connecli DII pieces 2905. Connector mud 2902 has ends which are bent. at right angles which allows them to be inserted through central bore holes in connector pieces 2905. Connector piece 2901 is the same design a connector pieces 20S. 2901 shows the central bore hole through which the connection rod ends 2902 are inserted.

The ends of the connection rod 2902 have screw thread which UIIQW a bolt to be screwed ooto the connection rod end thereby holding the connection rod firmly place vith the connection pieces 2905 at each end.

Figure 30 shows how the connection rods in Figure 28 and Figure 29 are connected to the connector pieces. A connection rod before being deployed may look like 3001.

Each end is at right angles to the main body of the rod and typically would have screw thread on each end. In deploying the connection rod each end of connection mud 3004 is inserted through central bore boles in connector pieces 3007 and 3008. To 6nely bold the connection rod 3004 in place, nuts 3009 are screwed onto the ends of the connection rods.

Figure 31 depicts one example of the constniction of the Rebound Box. Two panels of the Rebound Box 3105 and 3106 have holes in each, corner of the panels and/or at one or multiple points along the Length of the panels. The panels are then held in a finn position in relation to each other by the use of boll inserted through the holes in the panelsandscrewedintoblocks3l0l, 3102,3103,3104and3107. Aconnectionrod 3105 is secured between connector pieces 3101 3103.

Figure 32 depicts one example of the construction of the Rebound Box. Two panels of the Rebound Box 3205 and 3206 have holes in each corner of' the panels and/or at one or multiple paints along the length of the panels. The panels are then held in a rmn position in relation to each other by the use of bolts inserted through the holes in the panels and screwed into blocks 3201, 3202, 3203, 3204 and 3207.3208 is a connection rod between connector pieces 3201 and 3203. Figure 32 additionally depicts how feet may be affixed to the panels of' the Rebound Box. The feet may be afftxcd to one or all of the panels. There may be one or a number of feet. The positioning and height of the feet may vary thereby changing the angle of how the RebOUnd Box sits. This therefore affects the way a bail may rebound or deflect from the surfaces of the 1&ebound Box. The feet may be made of wood, metaL plastic ar rubber. The feet may be affixed by glue or bolted or screwed or clipped on to the -S.

Figure 33 depicts the cross sectional end view f three example Rebound Boxes 3301 3302 and 3303. Figure 33 shows how the Rebound Boxes can be rotated to sit on different sides thereby allowing different panels to be offered in the vertical and holi2ontal and other planes. The ptnpose of this is to demonstrate how a single Rebound Box can support a number of differing paneL sides which would provide differing rebound or deflection effects to a bell projected towards cach of the panel sides.

Figure 34 depicts one example of a constructirni where the rebound panel 3401 is held in place by two side panels 3402 and 3403 and a further cross panel 3404 between side panels 3402 and 3403. All panels being attached by jointing blocks or through the use of nuts and bolts.

Figure 35 depicts one example ofaconstruction where the rebound unit shown in Figure 34 has been turned through 180 degrees. By doing this the angle of rebound panel 3501 is presented at a different angle therefore causing a ball to rebound off ata different angle from the face compared with the rebound from the panel face in Figure 34. Panel 3501 ishednplacytwosidepanels3502and3503andafurthcrCrUSs panel 3504 between side panels 3502 and 3503. All panels being attached by jointing blocks or through the use of nuts and boLts.

Figure 36 depicts one example conslxuctioa.where rebound panels 3601 and 3602 are held ira place by two side panels. Figure 36 is a cross sectional "side on" view showing one side pancl 3603 of the two side panels. This example of construction allows two rebound panels to be used simultaneously. The side panels can be constructed with different angled edges thereby allowing the rebound panels to be held at different angles.

Figure 37 depicts one example construction where rebound paiels compiise a number of rods. Two side panels 3703 and 3704 are held hi place by a number of rods 3701 and 3702 fixed between the two side panels 3703 and 3704. In this example of the construction of the Rebound Box the rods act as rebound panels for both the front and bank of the Rebound Box. This example of construction allows both the front and beck of the Rebound Box to be used simultaneously. The rods can be mwle of metal, wood or a plastic based material or alternatively of any material of sufficient robustness.

FIgure 38 depicts the cross sectional view of one example construction of the Rebound Box where the side panels of the Rebound Box have a number of rods attached between both side/end panels. The side/end parmi 3801 shows one example of how the rods may be arranged when fixed to the side/end panels. The rods being fixed to the side/end panels by bolts/screws screwed into a threaded channel n the ends of the rods. This example of construction allows two sides of the Rebound Box to be used simultartously. In this example the rods are arranged in a straight line foi one side of the Rebound Box and in a non Linear arrangement for the other side of the Rebound Box.

Figure 39 is an iudicative, cross seclionaJ representation of one snapshot moment of impact of a ball 3901 striking a rebound panel wheee the rebound panel 3902 comprises a number of ridges. The ridges of the rebound panel act as fingers poking into the ball isinp the ball to be utec poked" or "punched" away in the rebound from the surfcc. This arrangement of ridges causes forces to be applied in a concentrated manner on the ball thereby causing the bail to rebound with greater speed. The spacing of the ridges is importantizithat if the ridge cusps are too far apart the ball can become squeezed between adjacent ridges (and does not rebound with a "punched" effect) and obviously if the ridges are too close they are iridisthiguishable from a flat surface. For a size 5 soccer ball used against a rebound panel an appropriate spacing between the ridge cusps is about 4cm. The distance between the ridge cusps can vary from 1cm to Scm.

Figure 40 is an indicative, cross sectional representation of one snapshot momeiit uf impact of a balL 4001 striking a rebound panel where the rebound panel 4002 comprises a number of rods. The rods of the rebound panel act as rounded fingers poking into the ball caiming the ball to be "toe Poked" or pwched" away in the rebound from the surface. This arrangement of rods causes forces to be applied in a concentrated nnnr on the ball thereby causing the ball to rebound with greater speed. The spacing of the rods is important in that if the rods are too r apart the ball can become squeezed between aljacent rods (and does not rebound with a "punched" effect) and obviously if the ridges are too close they are indistinguishable from a flat surface. For a size 5 soccer ball used against a rebound panel an appropriate spacing between the ridge cusps is about 4cm. The distance between the ridge cusps can vary from 1cm to 8cm.

I also hereby incorporate by reference the whole contents of GB 2 450 772, including the claims originally filed with that application. This disclosure is made/incorporated now in order to give maximum disclosure, as filed, for this divisional application.

Claims (36)

1. CLAIMS1. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device having a rebound panel comprising a plurality of projections against which in use a football is to be directed for rebounding or deflecting from the panel, the projections comprising spaced apart projections having tips adapted to flex the surface of a football inwards into the football, in use, and the tips being spaced between 1 and 8 cm apart, preferably between about 3 and about cm apart, and most preferably about 4cm apart, and wherein at least one support or foot, comprising a side panel or frame, is provided adapted to hold the panel generally upright in use, and wherein the or each side panel or frame is movable between a position of use in which it extends transversely away from the rebound panel and props it up, to a storage position in which it extends generally parallel to the rebound panel.
2. 2. A portable rebound or deflection football training device according to claim 1 wherein at least one of the side frame(s) or panel(s) is:- (i) angularly movable relative to the rebound panel so as to be able to move between their operative and storage positions; or (ii) removable from the rebound panel so as to be able to be placed alongside it in the storage position.
3. 3. A portable rebound or deflectin football training device according to claim 2 wherein there are two side panels or frames and wherein:-both of the side panels are (i)above, or both are (ii) above, or one is (i) and one is (ii)above.
4. 4. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to any of claims 1 to 4 wherein there arc two side panels or frames, and a bracing member, optionally a strut or bar, connects them at a region of the side panels or frames disposed away from the region of the panels or frames connected to the rebound panel.
5. 5. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to claim 4 wherein the strut or bar is movable relative to the side panels or frames so as to be movable from a position of use in which it braces the side panels of frames, and a storage position in which it extends generally parallel to the side panel or frames.
6. 6. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to any of claims 1 to 5 wherein in the storage position the side panel(s) or frame(s), and if provided the bracing member, are capable of being positioned to lie disposed generally parallel, for example stacked on top of each other.
7. 7. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to any preceding claim wherein in use the device comprises a triangle or quadrilateral (e.g. square in cross section, or trapezium -shaped in cross section) or other closed shape, bounded on at least three, or four, sides by structural members, at least one of the structural members comprising the rebound panel, and having open sides above and below the plane of the triangle, quadrilateral, or other closed shape defined by the structural members.
8. 8. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to claim 7 wherein the open sides are disposed one against the ground in use and another, opposed to the one open side, at the top of the device.
9. 9. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to claim 7 wherein in use the open sides are disposed generally vertically, at the ends of a box formed by the structural members.
10. 10. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to any preceding claim comprising at least two rebound panels separated from each other and inclined to each other at an angle, so that they present rebound panels inclined relative to the ground at different angles.
11. 11. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to any preceding claim wherein the device can be rolled, turned, or otherwise moved to a different orientation relative to the ground so that the same rebound panel can have two different angles of inclination relative to the ground, with the device in two different orientations relative to the ground.
12. 12. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to any preceding claim further comprising one or more feet adapted to engage the ground or floor.
13. 13. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to claim 12 wherein the feet are removable from first feet-location positions on the device and reattachable at second feet-location devices, so as to enable the same feet to be used with the device in different orientations relative to the ground.
14. 14. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to any preceding claim which has a panel having a hand hold extending through it.
15. 15. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to any preceding claim wherein the projections comprise elongate ribs or ridges.
16. 16. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to claim 15 wherein the ribs or ridges extend generally parallel to each other.
17. 17. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to claim 16 wherein the ribs or ridges are evenly spaced apart.
18. 18. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to claim 16 wherein the ribs or ridges are not all the same distance from the next adjacent ridge.
19. 19. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to any one of claims 1 5 to 18 wherein the ribs or ridges are formed in sheet material.
20. 20. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to claim 19 wherein the sheet material comprises a ziz-zag corrugated sheet.
21. 21. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to claim 20 wherein the sheet material comprises steel or iron or other ferrous metal.
22. 22. A portable rebound ox deflecting football training device according to any of claims 15 to 18 wherein the ribs or ridges comprise rods or bars or slats.
23. 23. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to claim 22 wherein the rods or bars or slats comprise steel or iron or other ferrous metal.
24. 24. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to any preceding claim wherein the support comprises at least one side frame or panel extending in use generally transversely to the rebound panel.
25. 25. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to claim 24 wherein there are side frames or panels at each longitudinally spaced end of the rebound panel.
26. 26. A portable rebound or deflecting football training device according to claim 24 or claim 25 wherein the or each side panel or frame has a triangular shape such that force from a ball that hits the rebound panel is directed at least in part into the ground, via the or each side panel or frame.
27. 27. A kit for assembly into a portable rebound or deflecting football training device, the kit comprising: a first rebound panel adapted to rebound or deflect a football away from the device; a support structure, comprising a support or foot, adapted to hold the rebound panel in a first operational condition in which the rebound panel is held generally upright; the first rebound panel and support structure being flat packed to occupy less space compared to when the device is in its operational condition; and the panel comprising a plurality of projections against which in use a football is to be directed for rebounding or deflecting from the panel, the projections comprising spaced apart projections having tips adapted to flex the surface of a football inwards into the football, in use, and the tips being spaced between 1 and Scm apart, preferably between about 3 and 5cm apart, and preferably about 4 cm apart, and wherein the or each support or foot is movable between a position of use in which it extends transversely away from the rebound panel and props it up, to a storage position in which it extends generally parallel to the rebound panel, and, optionally, instructions on how to assemble the device to its operational condition.
28. 28. A kit according to claim 27 in which at least two rebound panels, flat packed relative to each other, are provided.
29. 29. A kit according to claim 27 in which at least three rebound panels, flat packed relative to each other, are provided.
30. 30. A kit according to claim 27 in which at least four rebound panels, flat packed relative to each other, are provided.
31. 31. A kit according to claim 27 in which at least five rebound panels, flat packed relative to each other, are provided.
32. 32. A kit according to claim 27 in which at least eight rebound panels (for example two boxes), flat packed relative to each other, are provided.
33. 33. A kit according to claim 27 in which at least twelve rebound panels (for example three boxes), flat packed relative to each other, are provided.
34. 34. A kit according to any one of claims 27 to 33 further comprising instructions on different training drills that can be performed with boxes/devices of the kit.
35. 35. A method of football training comprising transporting a portable rebound football training device in accordance with any one of claims I to 26 to a training location; assembling the device to its operational condition in situ at the training location; bouncing or deflecting a football off the rebound panel and dealing with the rebound or deflection.
36. 36. A method according to claim 35 comprising using at least two of the portable rebound football training devices in a football training drill.