US20220296976A1 - Antimicrobial Basketball Net - Google Patents

Abstract

A basketball net includes a multi-layer cord including each of an outer layer formed of a first antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber and an inner layer including a second antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber. The outer layer is woven from a first antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn to form a wall that defines a central opening, and at least one cord is located within the central opening, the at least one cord formed by a second antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn. The at least one cord includes a plurality of cords including a first cord formed by the second antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn and a second cord including a third antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn. The plurality of cords includes: the first cord; the second cord including the third antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn and at least one monofiber yarn; and a third cord formed by a plurality of monofiber yarns.

Description

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION1. Field of Invention
• This invention relates generally to basketball nets. More specifically, at least one embodiment, relates to a basketball net that removes moisture and germs from a basketball as the basketball drops through the net.
2. Discussion of Related Art
• Referring toFIG. 1, atraditional basketball goal100 is illustrated. Thebasketball goal100 includes arim102, abasketball net103 and abackboard104. Thebasketball goal100 can be secured in place such that therim102 is located at the desired elevation, for example, at a regulation height, or perhaps a lower height when used by children. While thebasketball goal100 may be wall mounted, ceiling suspended or secured in place by other means, basketball goals are most often secured to a pole for use in recreational basketball.
• Thebasketball net103 is traditionally constructed to provide an overall conical shape. The materials of construction can include cotton, polyester or metal (chain link). Regardless of the materials of construction, thetypical basketball net103 includes a series of openings having a generally overall triangle or diamond-like shape where the upper part of thenet103 includes larger openings and the lower part of thenet103 includes smaller diamond-shaped openings. The loops that form the uppermost openings in thebasketball net103 are attached to therim102. When a basketball is thrown through thenet103, the descent of the ball is slowed and partially guided as the ball passes through thenet103.
• During a game, the basketball is constantly changing hands. During play some basketball players find the basketball slippery due to moisture and sweat that gets transferred from the players' hands to the ball while handling it. A slippery feeling basketball gives the athlete less control of the ball while dribbling, passing and shooting. To improve the precision of their ball handling, athletes may run to the sidelines and wipe their hands on a towel, or alternatively, wipe their hands on their shorts or jersey to wipe off some of the moisture. These practices are routine at all levels of competition. Further, while the effort may temporarily give the athlete dry hands it does not remove any of the moisture from the basketball. As a result, the fundamental problem caused by sweat on the basketball remains.
• Sometimes, a game or practice is temporarily halted so that the ball can be wiped down with a towel to dry it. However, these interruptions stop the flow or momentum of the game and are frustrating to players, coaches, referees and fans.
• In addition to moisture, germs are also transferred onto the ball from the sweat and contact with the hands of the athletes. This leads to an accumulation of germs as the ball continually changes hands during a game or practice. As the germs accumulate, the basketball continues to change hands leading to an increasingly unhygienic situation. These circumstances create an environment that can easily transmit infections among the participants.
• Further, the towels that are available courtside during a basketball game are unsanitary because they are thrown on the bench or the gym floor and because the same towel is used repeatedly to remove sweat. As a result, wiping the ball down with a towel does not reduce germs. Instead, the towel may actually transmit germs to the surface of the ball.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
• Therefore, there is a need for apparatus, systems and methods that reduce the risk of transmission of an infectious disease via a basketball. There is also a need for apparatus, systems and methods that assist in removing both germs and moisture such as sweat from a basketball. According to various embodiments, a basketball net includes one or a combination of antimicrobial, odor resistant, moisture absorbing and moisture wicking properties. According to these embodiments, the basketball net operates to clean the surface of the basketball as the basketball descends through the net. These embodiments provide an approach that increases the hygiene of gameplay and gives players better control of the basketball without the need to interrupt play or change basketballs.
• During the current Covid-19 pandemic there is a heightened awareness and need to practice additional measures of hygiene to prevent the spread of germs and disease.
• According to one aspect, a basketball net, includes a multi-layer cord including each of an outer layer formed of a first antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber and an inner layer including a second antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber. In some embodiments, the outer layer is woven from a first antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn to form a wall that defines a central opening, and at least one cord is located within the central opening, the at least one cord formed by a second antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn. In one embodiment, the at least one cord includes a plurality of cords including a first cord formed by the second antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn and a second cord including a third antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn. In a further embodiment, the plurality of cords includes: the first cord; the second cord including the third antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn and at least one monofiber yarn; and a third cord formed by a plurality of monofiber yarns.
• According to another aspect, a basketball goal includes a backboard, a rim configured to secure to the backboard and a basketball net configured to hang from the rim, the basketball net includes a multi-layer cord including each of an outer layer formed of a first antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber and an inner layer including a second antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber. In some embodiments, the outer layer is woven from a first antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn to form a wall that defines a central opening, and at least one cord is located within the central opening, the at least one cord formed by a second antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn. In one embodiment, the at least one cord includes a plurality of cords including a first cord formed by the second antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn and a second cord including a third antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn. In a further embodiment, wherein the plurality of cords includes: the first cord; the second cord including the third antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn and at least one monofiber yarn; and a third cord formed by a plurality of monofiber yarns.
• According to still another aspect, a method of fabricating a basketball net is provided. In some embodiments, the method includes acts of: providing a first yarn having both antimicrobial properties and moisture wicking properties; providing a second yarn having both antimicrobial properties and moisture wicking properties; fabricating an outer cord of the basketball net from the first yarn, the outer cord defining a central axial opening within the outer cord; fabricating an inner cord of the basketball net with the second yarn; and fabricating a net-cord material by locating the inner cord longitudinally within the central axial opening.
• In some embodiments, the method includes manufacturing the first yarn from a first synthetic fiber having antimicrobial nanoparticles distributed within the first synthetic fiber, and manufacturing the second yarn from a second synthetic fiber having antimicrobial nanoparticles distributed within the second synthetic fiber. In one embodiment, the inner cord is a first inner cord, and the method includes: manufacturing a third yarn from a plurality of synthetic monofibers; fabricating a second inner cord of the basketball net with the third yarn; and fabricating the net-cord material by locating the second inner cord longitudinally within the central axial opening. In another embodiment, where the synthetic monofiber is a first synthetic monofiber, the method includes: manufacturing a fourth yarn from third synthetic fiber having antimicrobial nanoparticles distributed within the third synthetic fiber; manufacturing a fifth yarn from a plurality of synthetic monofibers; fabricating a third inner cord from a combination of the fourth yarn and the fifth yarn; and fabricating the net-cord material by locating the third inner cord longitudinally within the central axial opening.
• In still another aspect, an antimicrobial, moisture wicking material for sports netting includes a multi-layer cord including each of an outer layer formed of a first antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber and an inner layer including a second antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber. In some embodiments, the outer layer is woven from a first antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn to form a wall that defines a central opening, and at least one cord is located within the central opening, the at least one cord formed by a second antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn.
• According to another aspect, a specialty basketball net is manufactured from high-performance material with moisture wicking, moisture absorbent, anti-odor and/or antimicrobial properties. According to some embodiments, the basketball net is sized and configured to be hung from a basketball rim inside a conventional net. In various embodiments, a color of the specialty net is customizable. For example, the color can be selected to highlight the increased player safety aspect provided by the specialty net. This can include the use of fluorescent, day-glow or other Hi-Viz colors.
• According to yet another aspect, an otherwise conventional basketball net includes added strings secured to the conventional basketball net. According to these embodiments, these added strings are manufactured from high-performance material with moisture wicking, moisture absorbent, anti-odor and/or antimicrobial properties. The strings can be secured on the inside of the central opening of the conventional basketball net.
• According to still another aspect, a basketball net includes large diameter knots. According to these embodiments, large diameter knots include high-performance material with moisture wicking, moisture absorbent, anti-odor and/or antimicrobial properties. In some embodiments, the large diameter knots are located only in a central region of the net.
• As used herein, the term “antimicrobial” when used to refer to a compound, process or product means that the compound, process or product includes the characteristic of destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms including both bacteria and viruses. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize based on the disclosure herein that antimicrobial properties are effective in destroying or inhibiting virus cells such as COVID-19.
• As used herein, the term “basketball goal” refers to a basketball goal system that includes at least a rim and a basketball net. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize based on the disclosure herein that a basketball goal can also include a backboard, an extension arm/boom, pole, weighted base and or other support structure that secures the combination of the rim and the backboard at the desired location and elevation.
• As used herein, the term “string” refers to any material that has a length dimension that is larger than its width dimension such that when used to construct a basketball net, the net includes a series of openings where the openings provide the majority of the surface area of an overall shape defined by the net when hung from a rim. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize based on the disclosure herein that a string can include a single homogenous material, a woven material, extruded or printed material, and further, that a string can include natural material(s), synthetic material(s) or a combination of natural and synthetic materials. Further, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize based on the disclosure herein that a string can include a cord of material with a circular cross section but may also include materials that have an overall square or rectangular cross-sectional shape. That is, a string need not define a cylindrical shape. Accordingly, material can be manufactured in sheets including a series of openings defined by “strings” of material where the openings provide the majority of the surface area of an overall shape defined by the net when hung from a rim. Further, a basketball net can be manufactured in solid sheets that are stamped or die cut to form a series of openings defined by “strings” of material where the openings provide the majority of the surface area of an overall shape defined by the net when hung from a rim. In various approaches, the “sheets” of material can include fabric.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
• The accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component that is illustrated in various figures is represented by a like numeral. For purposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every drawing. In the drawings:
• FIG. 1 illustrates a basketball goal of the prior art;
• FIG. 2 illustrates a basketball goal including a basketball net in accordance with a first embodiment;
• FIG. 3 illustrates a basketball goal including a basketball net in accordance with a second embodiment;
• FIG. 4 illustrates another view of the basketball goal ofFIG. 3;
• FIG. 5 illustrates a basketball net in accordance with one embodiment;
• FIG. 6A illustrates a basketball net in accordance with a further embodiment;
• FIG. 6B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a string included in the basketball net illustrated inFIG. 6A;
• FIGS. 7A-7E illustrate a label in accordance with a first embodiment;
• FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate a label in accordance with a second embodiment;
• FIGS. 9A-9D illustrate a label in accordance with a third embodiment;
• FIGS. 10A-10D illustrate a label in accordance with a fourth embodiment;
• FIGS. 11A-11D illustrate a label in accordance with a fifth embodiment;
• FIGS. 12A-12D illustrate a label in accordance with a sixth embodiment; and
• FIGS. 13A-13C illustrate a label in accordance with a seventh embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• This invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having,” “containing”, “involving”, and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.
• Referring toFIG. 2, abasketball goal200 including a net205 is illustrated in accordance with a first embodiment. Thebasketball goal200 also includes arim202 and abackboard204. Therim202 includes a flange that is used to secure therim202 to thebackboard204. Therim202 also includes a series of hooks evenly spaced at locations around the rim. Various types of support structure (not illustrated) can be employed to secure thebasketball goal200 at the desired location and height.
• According to the illustrated embodiment, the net205 includes a first plurality ofstrings206, a second plurality ofstrings207, a first plurality ofknots208, a second plurality of knots and a plurality ofopenings210. According to the illustrated embodiment, the first plurality ofstrings206 are located in an upper region of the net205. The first plurality ofstrings206 are referred to as loops and the loops are employed to attach the net205 to therim202. According to these embodiments, the second plurality ofstrings207 are located in the region below the first plurality ofstrings206. The second plurality ofstrings207 are referred to as mesh. The loops are attached to the mesh with the first plurality ofknots208. The second plurality ofstrings207 are connected to one another by the second plurality ofknots209 to form theopening210. Theopenings210 generally have an overall triangle or diamond-like shape with theknots208,209 located at some of the attachment points of thestrings206. The loops are employed to attach the top of the net205 to therim202 using the hooks. As used herein, the term “loop region” refers to the portions of the net205 between the attachment to therim202 and the first plurality ofknots208. As used herein, the term “mesh region” refers to the portions of the net205 from the first plurality ofknots208 to the bottom of the net205.
• With the net205 secured to therim202 and hanging in a relaxed state, the net205 has an overall conical shape. That is the diameter of a central opening defined by the top of the net205 is substantially the same as the inside diameter of the opening defined by therim202. In each case, the diameter is slightly larger than the outside diameter of a basketball. However, the upper half of the net205 tapers inward such that the central and lower regions of the net205 (i.e., the mesh region) define a central opening in the net that is smaller in diameter than the opening at the top of the net205. Consequently, the central opening in the bottom half of the net205 is smaller than the outside diameter of the basketball. According to one embodiment, the net205 is from 15″ to 18″ in length and thestring206 is manufactured from a woven material with a thread count of between 30 and 120 threads.
• The construction of the net205 provides it with a dynamic response as a basketball falls through it. In particular, theopenings205 are temporarily deformed as a basketball drops through therim202 and into the net205. The deformation temporarily shortens the overall length of the net205 and temporarily increases the inside diameter of the central opening in the central and lower regions of the net205. As a result, the descent of the basketball is slowed and its direction of travel is affected to reduce the distance that the ball travels from thebasketball goal200 when it exits the net205.
• According to the illustrated embodiment, the net205 has a conventional appearance but has moisture wicking, moisture absorbent, anti-odor and/or antimicrobial properties. According to one embodiment, thestring206 includes aconventional basketball net205 manufactured from woven fibers, for example, cotton, polyester or other materials. According to some embodiments, the material of construction is selected because the material has moisture wicking properties. The net205 can be treated with an antimicrobial chemical or chemical compound. According to some embodiments, the antimicrobial compound is sprayed onto the surface of the net205. According to other embodiments, the net205 is dipped in an antimicrobial solution. According to other embodiments, the net205 is manufactured from a high-performance material with antimicrobial properties inherent in the material. For example, the thread or yarn used to weave thestrings206 can include inherent antimicrobial properties while also promoting moisture movement and/or moisture absorption. According to further embodiments, thestrings206 can include multiple individual woven strings that are woven together or secured within another sheath of fiber or another material, for example, a moisture wicking material. In one embodiment where multiple individual strings are separately woven and then sheathed or otherwise bound together, the individual strings include the same moisture wicking, moisture absorbent, anti-odor and/or antimicrobial properties. According to another embodiment, each of the individual strings provides a subset of properties desired in theoverall net205. For example, a first type of string can include antimicrobial properties. A second type of string can include moisture wicking and/or moisture absorbing properties. In this embodiment, the first type of string and the second type of string are woven, sheathed, bound or otherwise secured together to provide the overall net205 with each of the desired properties.
• Depending on the embodiment, the antimicrobial properties can be achieved using compounds or materials that include silver or copper. According to another embodiments, the antimicrobial properties are provided by soaking the net205 in a solution that has a high ethyl alcohol content. According to one embodiment, the solution includes at least 60% ethyl alcohol. According to one embodiment, the net205 is treated with a gel includes that includes at least 60% ethyl alcohol. The use of ethyl alcohol is suitable where the dampness of the net205 is not a concern. The quick drying nature of ethyl alcohol is also advantageous because the surface of the basketball can be cleaned without leaving moisture on the ball for any length of time.
• According to further embodiments, only strings206 in a limited region of the net205 have the moisture wicking, moisture absorbing and/or antimicrobial properties. For example, strings206 in either or both of the central and lower regions of the net205 include high-performance materials with any one or any combination of moisture wicking, moisture absorbing and/or antimicrobial properties. In one embodiment, conventional materials are employed for the strings in the upper half of the net205 and the high-performance materials form the lower half of the net205. The high-performance strings can be attached to the lower ends of the conventional upper strings using knots, by splicing, looping and/or applying adhesive.
• In yet another embodiment, an added set of strings is added to either or both of the central and the lower regions of the net205. In this embodiment, the added set of strings is manufactured from high-performance materials with any one or any combination of moisture wicking, moisture absorbing and/or antimicrobial properties. The added set of strings can be attached to thestrings206 at one end or both ends of the added string. In the first approach, the added strings dangle downward from their point of attachment with the opposite end free to move about as the ball drops through the net205. In either approach, the added set of strings is located on an inside of the net205 to ensure that the added strings make contact with the ball.
• When in use, the net205 operates to wipe the surface of the basketball each time a shot drops through the net205. In this manner, the antimicrobial and moisture wicking properties are applied to various parts of the exterior surface of the ball to clean and dry the ball in a manner that removes sweat and removes or inhibits the growth of microorganisms.
• Referring now toFIG. 3, abasketball goal300 including anouter basketball net305 and aninner basketball net315 is illustrated in accordance with a second embodiment. Thebasketball goal300 also includes arim312 and abackboard314. Therim312 includes a flange that is used to secure therim312 to thebackboard314. Therim312 also includes a series of hooks evenly spaced at locations around therim312. Various types of support structure (not illustrated) can be employed to secure thebasketball goal300 at the desired location and height.
• According to the illustrated embodiment, theinner net315 includes a plurality ofstrings316, a plurality of attachment points318A,318B,318C and a plurality ofopenings319. Thestrings316 are connected to one another at the attachment points318A,318B,318C to form theopening319. Theopenings319 in the regions between thestrings316 generally have an overall triangle or diamond-like shape. The top of theinner net315 is attached to therim312 using the hooks. According to the illustrated embodiment, theouter net305 and theinner net315 are attached to the rim using the same set of hooks. With the net315 secured to therim312 and hanging in a relaxed state, theopenings319 located in the upper region of the net315 are larger in size than theopenings319 located in the lower half of the net. For example, theopenings319 at the top of the net315 that are secured to therim312 provide thelargest openings319. In addition, theinner net315 has a generally conical overall shape when hanging from therim312 in a relaxed state. That is, the diameter of a central opening defined by the top of theinner net315 is substantially the same as the inside diameter of the opening defined by therim312. In each case, the diameter is slightly larger than the outside diameter of a basketball. However, the upper half of theinner net315 tapers inward such that the central and lower regions of theinner net315 define a central opening in the net that is smaller in diameter than the opening at the top of theinner net315. Consequently, the central opening in the bottom half of theinner net315 is smaller than the outside diameter of the basketball. The construction of theinner net315 provides it with a dynamic response as a basketball passes through it as described above with reference to the net205.
• Theinner net315 can be manufactured from a high-performance material with moisture wicking, moisture absorbent, anti-odor and/or antimicrobial properties. The antimicrobial, moisture wicking, moisture absorbent and/or anti-odor properties can be provided using any of the approaches described above with reference to the net205 illustrated and described with reference toFIG. 2. For example, the antimicrobial properties can be provided by treating the material of theinner net315 with an antimicrobial compound. According to some embodiments, an antimicrobial compound is sprayed onto the surface of theinner net315, that is, sprayed on the surface of thestrings316. According to other embodiments, theinner net315 is dipped in an antimicrobial solution to provide thestrings316 with antimicrobial properties. According to other embodiments, thestrings316 included in theinner net315 are manufactured from a high-performance material with antimicrobial properties inherent in the material of manufacture. According to any of the preceding embodiments, theinner net315 includesstrings316 manufactured from woven synthetic fibers. According to some embodiments, the tightness of the weave is adjusted to improve the moisture wicking and/or antimicrobial properties of theinner net315. For example, a looser weave can provide increased surface area for the application of an antimicrobial compound by increasing the available surface area of thestring316. A looser weave may also increase the moisture wicking capabilities of thestrings316. According to other embodiments, a tighter weave is employed to provide a greater mass of material available to wick and absorb moisture from the surface of the ball.
• The attachment points318A,318B,318C are employed to secure different segments of thestring316 to one another. This maintains the overall shape of theinner net315 through repeated use. For example, the inside diameter of theinner net315 and overall conical shape of the net315 are maintained with the different segments of thestring316 secured to one another at the attachment points318A,318B,318C. Depending on the embodiment, the attachment points318A,318B,318C can include knots, stitching, or combinations of the preceding to secure thedifferent strings316 to one another. Further, as described with reference toFIG. 5, the thickness of the material in the region of the attachments can be increased to increase the contact pressure applied to the basketball as it drops through theinner net315. In various embodiments, this feature aids in removing sweat from the basketball as it passes through theinner net315 while also aiding in the cleaning of the outer surface of the basketball to remove germs.
• According to the illustrated embodiment, theinner net315 has an overall conical shape when hanging from therim312. However, the length and the average diameter of theinner net315 are smaller than the length and the average diameter of theouter net305. This allows theinner net315 to be received within theouter net305.
• In various embodiments, theouter net305 is constructed of a traditional and standard basketball net made of material such as cotton or polyester for indoor and outdoor play, or chain link metal for outdoor play. According to some embodiments, theinner net315 is sewed or otherwise attached to the outer net305 at selected locations. This close integration of theinner net315 with the outer net305 can assist in giving the basketball goal300 a traditional appearance. According to another aspect, the manner that the inner and outer nets are sewed together allows the combined net to look and function like a standard basketball net, while also offering moisture wicking/absorbing and antimicrobial properties.
• According to still further embodiments, theinner net315 can be installed and removed independent of theouter net305. These embodiments provide flexibility that allows an athlete or a group of athletes to arrive at a basketball court (for example, a public basketball court) with a moisture wicking/absorbing and antimicrobialinner net315. Theinner net315 can be temporarily secured to therim312 in a conventional manner to locate theinner net315 within a conventionalouter net305. The athletes can participate in a practice or game with theinner net315 installed to improve their performance and player safety. Specifically, the moisture wicking aspects of theinner net315 delivers a drier ball to the athletes after a successful shot. The antimicrobial aspect of theinner net315 reduces the risk of transmitting infection between athletes via the ball. The owner of theinner net315 can remove theinner net315 following a completion of the practice or game and while leaving the conventional inner net305 in place for continued use by other athletes.
• Regardless of whether or not theinner net315 and theouter net305 are permanently attached to one another, the netting can be removed to allow theinner net315 to be removed for a reapplication of an antimicrobial compound. For example, an application of the antimicrobial compound by spraying the compound onto the surface of theinner net315 or dipping theinner net315 in an antimicrobial solution or gel.
• Referring now toFIG. 4, a front view of abasketball goal300 in accordance with the second embodiment is shown.FIG. 4 illustrates theouter net305, therim312, thebackboard314 and theinner net315.FIG. 4 also illustrates an inside diameter D of therim312. As is apparent inFIG. 4, both the inner diameter of theinner net315 and the inner diameter of theouter net305 are substantially equal to the inner diameter D at the point of attachment of thenets305,315 to therim312.
• Some embodiments include a net that has regions of having an increased thickness to increase the contact pressure applied by the net on the surface of the basketball. Referring now toFIG. 5, an embodiment of a basketball goal includes abasketball net525 includingstrings526, a first set ofknots528 and a second set ofknots530. The net525 is constructed with thestring526 andknots528,530 to define a series ofopenings529 in the manner generally described above with reference toFIGS. 2 and 3. The overall conical shape of the net525 includes anupper region532, acentral region534 and alower region536. The second set ofknots530 include a plurality of knots531 that include high-performance materials with any one or any combination of moisture wicking, moisture absorbing, anti-odor and/or antimicrobial properties.
• In various embodiments, the plurality of knots531 have a larger outside diameter than a conventional knot. The larger diameter can be a result of an addition of material that includes any of moisture wicking, moisture absorbing, anti-odor and/or antimicrobial properties. These properties can be provided in the manner described above regarding thenets205 and315. Further depending on the embodiment, the added diameter can be achieved by “double knotting” the connection points between the strings or adding additional material to wrap on an exterior of an otherwise conventionally sized knot, for example, theknots528. According to one embodiment, the net525 is a conventional net manufactured from woven fibers, for example, cotton, polyester or other materials. In this embodiment, the net525 may only have moisture wicking, moisture absorbing, anti-odor and/or antimicrobial properties at the plurality of knots531. According to another embodiment, the entire net is manufactured from a high-performance material with moisture wicking, moisture absorbing, anti-odor and/or antimicrobial properties. In either embodiment, a high-performance material is be wrapped around the conventional knots as an added layer to create a denser surface area that will allow additional contact and friction with the ball as it passes through the net.
• According to the illustrated embodiment, the plurality ofknots530 includes afirst knot531A, asecond knot531B, athird knot531C and afourth knot531D. While not illustrated, these larger diameter knots can be located for 360 degrees about the net525. In the illustrated embodiment, theupper region532 does not include anylarge diameter knots530. Thelower region536 also does not include anylarge diameter knots530. Instead, the second set ofknots530 are disposed in thecentral region534. Thecentral region534 has the smallest inside diameter. Accordingly, the maximum amount of contact and contact-pressure between the net525 and the basketball is available in thecentral region534. With the second set ofknots530 located in thecenter region534, the basketball is subject to the maximum amount of wiping pressure as the ball drops through the net525.
• Referring now toFIGS. 6A and 6B, details of construction of abasketball net640 is illustrated in accordance with various embodiments. Thebasketball net640 is constructed withstring642 that includes anouter cord644 and aninner cord646. Depending on the embodiment, thestring642 can be employed to construct any of: the net205 illustrated and described with reference toFIG. 2; theouter basketball net305 and/or theinner basketball net315 described with reference toFIG. 3; the net525 illustrated and described with reference toFIG. 5. As will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the disclosure provided herein, thestring642 can be employed to construct other types of basketball nets or other nets for athletic equipment in various alternate embodiments. According to various embodiments, either or both of theouter cord644 and theinner cord646 include antimicrobial and moisture wicking characteristics. In these embodiments, the construction of the strings employed in the basketball net provide a layered construction with an outer layer provided by theouter cord644 and an inner layer provided by theinner cord646. Applicants find that the use of antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber in both the inner layer and the outer layer provides a highly effective approach to reduce the moisture and microorganisms that are otherwise found on the exterior surface of a basketball when in use.
• According to the illustrated embodiment, theinner cord646 includes a plurality of cords including afirst cord647, asecond cord648 and athird cord649. In various embodiments, the materials and construction of thefirst cord646, thesecond cord648 and thethird cord649 are selected together such that theinner cord646 provides antimicrobial and moisture wicking characteristics in combination with the strength and durability required of a basketball net. According to one embodiment, theouter cord644 is manufactured of an antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn that is braided into a cord to form a wall that defines a hollow central region running axially along the longitudinal axis of the cord. For example,FIG. 6B provides a cross-sectional view of thestring642. The cross-sectional view illustrates a hollowcentral region643 formed within theouter cord644. According to the illustrated embodiment, each of thefirst cord647, thesecond cord648 and thethird cord649 are located axially within the hollowcentral region643. In various embodiments, each of theouter cord644 and theinner cord646 are flexible. As a result, the shape of the hollow central region can change dynamically when in use. Similarly, the threeinner cords647,648,649 can flex within the hollowcentral region643 and may contact one another and/or the inside region of the wall formed by theouter cord644. According to one embodiment, an AEROSILVER antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn is employed in fabricating each of theouter cord644 and theinner cord646.
• According to various embodiments, theouter cord644 is manufactured from an antimicrobial moisture wicking synthetic yarn, for example, a polyester yarn. In some embodiments, the yarn includes nanoparticles within the volume of the yarn. In further embodiments, the nanoparticles can include silver, copper, a combination of the preceding or a combination of any of the preceding and nanoparticles including other materials. In some embodiments, the yarn is manufactured such that nanoparticles are distributed substantially uniformly within the yarn. In one embodiment, theouter cord644 is manufactured from silver nanoparticle woven polyester fiber.
• Applicants find that the overall strength, antimicrobial and moisture wicking performance of the net640 is improved when theinner cords647,648,649 provide a combination of these features. Further, the use of a plurality of inner cords can improve both the performance and the manufacturability of the net640. According to some embodiments, thefirst cord647 is fabricated entirely from an antimicrobial moisture wicking yarns. In one embodiment, thefirst cord647 can include a plurality of yarns including antimicrobial moisture wicking properties. According to one embodiment, the antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn employed to fabricate the first cord467 includes a linear density of 300 Denier or greater. According to another embodiment, thefirst cord647 includes four yarns having the same denier and the same antimicrobial and moisture wicking properties.
• According to some embodiments, thesecond cord648 includes both an antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn and a monofiber yarn. For example, thesecond cord648 can include a combination of yarns including antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn and a monofiber yarn braided together.
• According to one embodiment, thethird cord649 is manufactured as a synthetic monofiber, for example, polyethylene that does not include antimicrobial or moisture wicking features. In a further embodiment, a plurality of polyethylene monofibers are included in thethird cord649. According to one embodiment, twenty individual synthetic monofibers are included in thethird cord649.
• Aninner cord646 manufactured with the above-described embodiments of thefirst cord647, thesecond cord648, and thethird cord649 provides a net640 with that is antimicrobial and moisture wicking with the strength and durability for extended use while also delivering a net material that quickly absorbs moisture to allow the net640 to remain dry to the touch during use with a basketball that may be covered in sweat.
• In additional embodiments, the materials of construction of thefirst cord647, thesecond cord648, and thethird cord649, respectively, can be varied to increase selected characteristics of thebasketball net640. For example, the antimicrobial and moisture wicking characteristics can be increased by including antimicrobial and moisture wicking fibers in each of the threecords647,648,649. According to one embodiment, each of thefirst cord647, thesecond cord648, and thethird cord649, respectively, are manufactured using only antimicrobial and moisture wicking yarns. In other examples, the strength and durability of thebasketball net640 are increased by including monofiber in each of the threecords647,648,649. According to one embodiment, each of thefirst cord647, thesecond cord648, and thethird cord649, respectively, are manufactured using only monofiber. In yet another embodiment, each of thefirst cord647, thesecond cord648, and thethird cord649, respectively, include both an antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn and a monofiber yarn. For example, each of the threecords647,648,649 can include a combination of yarns including antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn and a monofiber yarn braided together.
• According to some embodiments, the first plurality ofstrings206 is constructed differently than the second plurality ofstrings207. These embodiments can be employed to increase the strength and durability of the loop region of the net (that is, the upper region of the net that is attached directly to the rim) relative to the mesh (or lower) region of the net. For example, the first plurality ofstrings206 can include an outer cord of antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber, as described above with reference to theouter cord644, and inner cords where antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber is absent. In one embodiment, the first plurality ofstrings206 are constructed using three inner cords located within a hollow central region formed by the outer cord where each of the three inner cords only includes monofiber yarn.
• The antimicrobial and moisture wicking fibers and yarns described herein are silver infused. For example, embodiments of thebasketball net205,305,525 and640 include a silver nanoparticle polyester fiber can be manufactured via a melted blend. In addition to a silver nanoparticle resin, the blend can include one or more of a UV stabilizer, antioxidant, nitrogen oxide gas yellowing inhibitor, adhesion promoter, chlorine remover, a quencher or other elements either alone or in combination with one or more of the preceding. According to some embodiments, these additives can be added to the melted blend along with the antimicrobial silver nanoparticle resin.
• Applicants have found that the available antimicrobial moisture wicking yarns may not be strong enough for use in a basketball net. For example, Applicants find that a 150 denier antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn is on its own unsuitable for constructing a basketball net. According to some embodiments, a conventional antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn (for example, a conventional yarn manufactured from AEROSILVER) is covered with another antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn to increase the linear density and the strength of the yarn. This covered antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn is then employed in manufacture of theouter cord644. The antimicrobial moisture wicking covered yarn can also be employed in the manufacture of thefirst cord647 and thesecond cord648. According to one embodiment, the antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn employed in constructing thebasketball net640 includes a first antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn having a first denier and a first thread count covered by a second antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn having a second denier and a second thread count. In various embodiments, the first antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn and the second antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn have the same denier and the same thread count as one another. According to these embodiments, the antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn constructed by covering a first yarn with a second yarn produces an antimicrobial moisture wicking yarn having twice the denier and twice the thread count of either yarn alone. As used herein, the term “cover,” “covering” or “covered” when referring to the construction of a yarn means wrapping at least one yarn around another.
• While the preceding describes various embodiments including one or more materials employed in combination to construct thebasketball net640, other combinations of manufacturing techniques and materials can be employed in some embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, an antimicrobial solution can be applied to a basketball net. The preceding includes embodiments in which the antimicrobial spray is applied to a net that includes antimicrobial fibers and also embodiments in which the antimicrobial spray is applied to a basketball net having a conventional construction. According to one embodiment, an emulsion is sprayed onto a silver-infused fabric employed to construct a basketball net. Further, the embodiments described with reference to thebasketball net640 can include different variations to provide the desired combination of antimicrobial, moisture wicking durable performance. In one embodiment, theouter cord644 includes anti-microbial moisture wicking fibers but theinner cord646 does not. In this embodiment, theinner cord646 can be manufactured solely of monofiber to maximize the strength and durability of the net640.
• In another embodiment, theinner cord646 includes anti-microbial moisture wicking fibers but theouter cord644 does not. In this embodiment, the net construction may improve the antimicrobial moisture wicking properties of the net when compared with a conventional net while still providing a durable long lasting product.
• In yet another embodiment, a plurality of antimicrobial pegs are located within the hollowcentral region643 of the net640. Depending on the embodiment, the “pegs” can include solid or tubular cylindrical elements with antimicrobial properties. The pegs can be provided in various lengths to allow use throughout different locations in either or both of the loop region and the mesh region of the net.
• When in use, the net640 wipes the surface of the basketball each time a shot drops through the net640. Theouter cord644 provides a first layer to wick up the moisture wiped off the surface of the basketball. In this manner, the antimicrobial and moisture wicking properties are applied to various parts of the exterior surface of the ball to clean and dry the ball in a manner that removes sweat and removes or inhibits the growth of microorganisms. According to some embodiments, theouter cord644 including antimicrobial properties also captures germs, viruses and other microbes carried by the absorbed moisture. In addition, theinner cord646 provides a second layer to wick the moisture from theouter cord644 to an interior region of the cord. This further reduces the likelihood that an athlete will contact moisture that includes microorganisms. Applicant finds that the use of moisture wicking antimicrobial fiber in multiple layers removes moisture from the exterior of the net640 so that it is almost immediately dry to the touch when the outer surface of the net becomes wet.
• Given the size of the sports memorabilia market, there is significant interest in the marketplace for unique tangible items having a direct association with a sporting event or athlete. Historically, these items are created organically, for example, a folding chair that was removed from an arena or other venue prior to the renovation or demolition of the venue, an item of athletic equipment that was used during an event or a photograph that captures a defining moment of a game or other sporting event.
• In today's world, the branding of teams and athletes is a huge part of creating value in any item of sports memorabilia.FIGS. 7-13 illustrate various durable, removable labels that can include custom branding and be secured to a basketball net to create an item of sports memorabilia. According to some embodiments, the removable labels include a brand for marketing purposes. That is, the labels can promote a brand that is displayed for the period that the label is affixed to the net. A basketball net is the focal point for fans whether they are in attendance or viewing the game via television/video. Consequently, marketing indicia included on a label secured to the front of the net will receive repeated views by the fans. Various embodiments allow for durable labels that are easily and securely fastened to a basketball net. Further, any form of indicia can be printed on the front surface of the label. These can include alpha and numeric text as well as art work. According to one embodiment, the logo or other indicia are applied to the front surface of the label using heat transfer technology. These embodiments are also constructed so that the label does not interfere with game play and can quickly be removed by hand without using any tools. The labels are also constructed to securely attach to the net such that the label does not pose a risk of injury to the players while also not interfering with the performance of the net.
• Referring now toFIGS. 7A-7D, alabel750 is illustrated in accordance with a first embodiment.FIG. 7A illustrates a front view of thelabel750. Thelabel750 includes abody752, afront surface753 and a plurality oftabs754A-754D. Each of the plurality oftabs754A,754B,754C and754D extend radially outward from a respective corner of thebody752. Alogo755 is centrally located on thefront surface753. According to some embodiments, thelabel750 is manufactured of a synthetic material including elastane, for example, Lycra or Spandex synthetic fiber.
• FIG. 7B illustrates a rear view of thelabel750. In various embodiments, the rear side of the plurality of tabs745A-754D include an adhesive. The rear side includes arear surface757 and a plurality ofadhesive regions756A-756D each located on the rear surface of one of the plurality of tabs745A-754D, respectively. Thelabel750 also includes a centraladhesive region758 located on therear surface757. An adhesive-free region761 exists between each of theadhesive regions756A-756D, respectively, and the centraladhesive region758. In some embodiments, the surface area of the adhesivefree region761 is controlled by selecting a desired radius of the centraladhesive region758 and a radial length of each of the plurality ofadhesive regions756A-756D. A proper selection of these dimension provides sufficient space to locate astring760 included in a basketball net. In particular, the dimensions are established to allow thestring760 to be securely enclosed when the tabs745A-745D are folded rearward while avoiding contact between thestring760 and either the centraladhesive region758 or any of the plurality ofadhesive regions756A-756D. Applicant finds that this prevents damage to thestring760 that would otherwise occur.
• FIG. 7C illustrates a front view of thelabel750 in a configuration where the plurality oftabs754A-754D are folded rearward to place each of the plurality oftabs754A-754D, respectively, in contact with the rear of thelabel750 as is illustrated and described in greater detail below with reference toFIG. 7E. According to this embodiment, the rearward fold allows each of the plurality ofadhesive regions756A-756D to be placed in contact with the centraladhesive region758. In various embodiments, the bond formed between the each of the respective plurality ofadhesive regions756A-756D and the centraladhesive region758 is secure but temporary. According to various embodiments, VELCRO hook and loop style fastening material is employed for each of the plurality ofadhesive regions756A-756D and the centraladhesive region758. In various embodiments, other forms of adhesive can be employed if they will stay securely attached when subject to typical wear and tear that a basketball net is subject to while also providing a releasable attachment. In various embodiments, the adhesive strength and manner of fastening allow the label to be removed from the net by hand without the use of tools. These alternative fastening means can include snaps, ties, other mechanical fastening means, or glue that provides a releasable bond.
• FIG. 7D illustrates a front view of thelabel750 with the label secured to thestrings760 included in a basketball net. When attached as illustrated thefront surface753 of thebody752 is unobstructed when viewed from the from of the net. This clearly displays thelogo755 when attached to the net. Further, the manner of attachment provides the label with a secure attachment at each of four corners.
• As illustrated inFIG. 7E, when in operation, each of the plurality oftabs754A-754D is folded rearward toward therear surface757 to wrap around thestring760. Each of the plurality oftabs754A-754D is pressed into engagement with thebody752. This presses each of the respective adhesive regions included in the plurality ofadhesive regions756A-756D into engagement with the centraladhesive region758. Thus, securely trapping the string within a corner of thelabel750. Applicant finds that adhesive such as Velcro fasteners can cause fraying or other damage to thestrings760 when they are repeatedly placed in contact with one another. Both the shape and the location of the adhesive allow thelabel750 to be employed to fasten the label securely and temporarily750 to the basketball net without contact between the adhesive regions located on the back of thelabel750 and thestrings760. Applicant finds that a combination of the shape of thelabel750 and size and shape of the plurality ofadhesive regions756A-756D and the centraladhesive region758, respectively, provides the benefits described here.
• Referring now toFIGS. 8A-8D, a label is illustrated in accordance with a second embodiment.FIG. 8A illustrates a front view of thelabel850. Thelabel850 includes abody852, afront surface853 and a plurality oftabs862A-862D. Each of the plurality oftabs862A,862B,862C and862D extend radially outward from a respective corner of thebody852. Alogo855 is centrally located on thefront surface853.FIG. 8B illustrates a rear view of thelabel850 including arear surface867. As viewed from the rear, thelabel850 includes a plurality ofadhesive regions864A-864D each adhesive region located on the rear surface of one of the plurality oftabs862A-862D, respectively. Thelabel850 also includes a centraladhesive region866 located on the rear surface857.
• FIG. 8C illustrates a front view of thelabel850 in a configuration where the plurality oftabs862A-862D are folded backwards to place each of the plurality oftabs862A-862D, respectively, in contact with the rear side of thelabel850. According to this embodiment, the rearward fold allows each of the plurality ofadhesive regions864A-864D to be placed in contact with the centraladhesive region866. In various embodiments, the bond formed between the each of the respective plurality ofadhesive regions864A-864D and the centraladhesive region866 is secure but temporary. According to various embodiments, VELCRO hook and loop style fastening material is employed for each of the plurality ofadhesive regions864A-864D and the centraladhesive region866. In various embodiments, other forms of adhesive or other forms of fastening can be employed.
• FIG. 8D illustrates a front view of thelabel850 with the label secured to thestrings860 included in a basketball net. Here, thestrings860 are trapped within the fold formed when atab862A-862D is folded backward and pressed into engagement with the rear of thebody852. Further, the configuration illustrated inFIGS. 8A-8D allows four separate sections ofstring860 to be secured within the folds of thelabel850. When attached as illustrated thefront surface853 of thebody852 is unobstructed when viewed from the front of the net. Here too, thelogo855 is clearly displayed with the label attached to the net. Further, the manner of attachment provides the label with a secure attachment at each of four corners.
• Referring now toFIGS. 9A-9D, a label is illustrated in accordance with a third embodiment.FIG. 9A illustrates a front view of thelabel950. Thelabel950 includes abody952, afront surface953, afirst end968A and asecond end968B. The two ends968A,968B extend from opposite ends of thebody953. Alogo955 is centrally located on thefront surface953.FIG. 9B illustrates a rear view of thelabel950. The rear side of thefirst end968A and the rear side of thesecond end968B each include an adhesive. As viewed from the rear, thelabel950 includes a firstadhesive region970A located on the rear of thefirst end968A and a secondadhesive region970B located on the rear of thesecond end968B. Thelabel950 also includes a centraladhesive region972 located on the rear side of thelabel950.
• FIG. 9C illustrates a front view of thelabel950 in a configuration where thefirst end968A and thesecond end968B are folded backwards to place each of the firstadhesive region970A and the secondadhesive region970B, respectively, in contact with the centraladhesive region972 located on the rear side of thelabel950. The ends968A,968B are pressed into engagement with the rear side of thebody950 to securely attach theadhesive regions970A,970B and the centraladhesive region972. In various embodiments, the bond that is formed between each of theadhesive regions970A,970B and the centraladhesive region972 is secure but temporary. According to various embodiments, VELCRO hook and loop style fastening material is employed for theadhesive regions970A,970B and972, respectively. In various embodiments, other forms of adhesive or other forms of fastening can be employed.
• FIG. 9D illustrates a front view of thelabel950 with the label secured to thestrings960 included in a basketball net. Here, thestrings960 are trapped within the fold formed when anend968A,968B is folded backward and pressed into engagement with the rear of thebody952. According to this embodiment, two separate sections ofstring960 are secured within the folds of thelabel950. When attached as illustrated thefront surface953 of thebody952 is unobstructed when viewed from the front of the net. Here too, thelogo955 is clearly displayed with the label attached to the net.
• Referring now toFIGS. 10A-10D, a label is illustrated in accordance with a fourth embodiment.FIG. 10A illustrates a front view of thelabel1050. Thelabel1050 includes abody1052, afront surface1053 and a plurality oftabs1074A-1074H. Each of the plurality oftabs1074A-1074H extend outward from thebody1052. Alogo1055 is centrally located on thefront surface1053.FIG. 10B illustrates a rear view of thelabel1050. The rear side of the plurality oftabs1074A-1074H include an adhesive. As viewed from the rear, thelabel1050 includes a plurality ofadhesive regions1076A-1076H each adhesive region located on a rear side of one of the plurality oftabs1074A-1074H, respectively. Acentral adhesive region1078 is located on the rear side of thebody1052.
• FIG. 10C illustrates a front view of thelabel1050 in a configuration where the plurality oftabs1074A-1074H are folded backwards to place each of the plurality oftabs1074A-1074H, respectively, in contact with the rear side of thelabel1050. According to this embodiment, the rearward fold allows each of the plurality ofadhesive regions1074A-1074H to be pressed into contact with the centraladhesive region1078, at different locations. In various embodiments, the bond formed between the each of the respective plurality ofadhesive regions1076A-1076H and the centraladhesive region1078 is secure but temporary. According to various embodiments, VELCRO hook and loop style fastening material is employed for each of the plurality ofadhesive regions1076A-1076H and the centraladhesive region1078. In various embodiments, other forms of adhesive or other forms of fastening can be employed.
• FIG. 10D illustrates a front view of thelabel1050 with the label secured to thestrings1060 included in a basketball net. Here, thestrings1060 are trapped within the fold formed when atab1074A-1074H is folded backward and pressed into engagement with the rear of thebody1052. Further, the configuration illustrated inFIGS. 10A-10D allows eight separate sections ofstring1060 to be secured within the folds of thelabel1050. When attached as illustrated thefront surface1053 of thebody1052 is unobstructed when viewed from the front of the net. Here too, thelogo1055 is clearly displayed with the label attached to the net.
• Referring now toFIGS. 11A-11D, alabel1180 is illustrated in accordance with a fifth embodiment.FIG. 11A illustrates a front view of thelabel1180. Thelabel1180 includes abody1182, afront surface1183, afirst snap1184A located at a first end of thebody1182 and asecond snap1184B located at a second end of thebody1182 opposite the first end.FIG. 11A illustrates thefirst snap1184A and thesecond snap1184B in an open position. Each of thefirst snap1184A and thesecond snap1184B include a respective socket and stud visible inFIG. 11A. Alogo1155 is centrally located on thefront surface1183.FIG. 11B illustrates a front view of thelabel1180 with the both thefirst snap1184A and thesecond snap1184B fastened in the closed position. A respective snap cap included in each of thefirst snap1184A and thesecond snap1184B is visible inFIG. 11B.
• FIG. 11C illustrates thelabel1180 attached tostrings1160 included in a basketball net. According to the illustrated embodiment, thelabel1180 is securely attached to the basketball net by securing the first end of thelabel1180 to one ormore strings1160 using the first snap1184C and securing the second end of thelabel1180 to one ormore strings1160 using thesecond snap1184B. In operation, one or more strings are located between the socket and the stud of thesnaps1184A,1184B, respectively. Each end of the label is folded on itself to engage the two elements of the snap and allow the secure fastening of the snap with a string captured within thelabel1180 at each end. The shape and form factor of thelabel1180 allows it to be employed in various orientations to display the logo. For example,FIG. 11C illustrates a first orientation in which the label is secured in a horizontal orientation.FIG. 11D illustrates a second orientation in which thelabel1180 is secured in an angled orientation across the face of the net.
• Referring now toFIGS. 12A-12D, alabel1285 is illustrated in accordance with a sixth embodiment.FIG. 12A illustrates a front view of thelabel1285. Thelabel1285 includes abody1290, afront surface1283, a first end of thebody1286, a second end of thebody1287, a notchedregion1288 and anopening1289 that is defined in the second end of thebody1287.FIG. 12B illustrates a rear view of thelabel1285 and a rear surface of the label.
• FIG. 12C illustrates thelabel1285 in a fastened position. To fasten the label, thefirst end1286 is folded backwards and inserted in theopening1289. The first end is drawn through theopening1289 wrapping on itself until the notches that define the notchedregion1288 align with the walls that define theopening1289. Here, the engagement between the notches and the walls of the opening provides a catch that fixes thelabel1285 in a loop1291. In various embodiments, a distance separating the notchedregion1288 from a distal portion of the second end of thebody1287 establish an inner diameter of the loop1291 with the label in the “latched” state illustrated inFIG. 12C.
• As illustrated inFIG. 12D, thelabel1285 is attached to astring1260 included in the basketball net. This is accomplished by locating the string adjacent the rear surface of thelabel1285 when thefirst end1286 is folded rearward and drawn through theopening1289. Thelabel1285 is securely attached to thestring1260 when thelabel1285 is placed in the latched position illustrated inFIG. 12C with thestring1260 enclosed within the opening1291.
• Referring now toFIGS. 13A-13C, alabel1392 is illustrated in accordance with a seventh embodiment.FIG. 13A illustrates a front view of thelabel1392. Thelabel1392 includes abody1394, afront surface1395, aslit1393 located at afirst end1396 of the body and asnap1384 located at asecond end1397 of the body.FIG. 13B illustrates a rear view of thelabel1392 and a rear surface of the label. The configuration of thelabel1392 allows the label to be attached to a basketball net in one of two hanging configurations.FIG. 13C illustrates a first configuration in which astring1360 is trapped within a loop formed when thesecond end1397 of the label is inserted within theslit1393 with thestring1360 proximate a rear side of thelabel1392. The resulting attachment is illustrated inFIG. 13C. In an alternative form of attachment, thesnap1384 is employed as described with reference to the fifth embodiment above.
• Having thus described several aspects of at least one embodiment of this invention, it is to be appreciated that various alterations, modifications, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Such alterations, modifications, and improvements are intended to be part of this disclosure, and are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing description and drawings are by way of example only.

Claims (23)

What is claimed is:

1. A basketball net, comprising:

a multi-layer cord including each of an outer layer formed of a first antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber and an inner layer including a second antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber.

2. The basketball net ofclaim 1, wherein the outer layer is woven from a first antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn to form a wall that defines a central opening, and

wherein at least one cord is located within the central opening, the at least one cord formed by a second antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn.

3. The basketball net ofclaim 2, wherein the at least one cord includes a plurality of cords including a first cord formed by the second antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn and a second cord including a third antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn.

4. The basketball net ofclaim 3, wherein the plurality of cords includes: the first cord; the second cord including the third antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn and at least one monofiber yarn; and a third cord formed by a plurality of monofiber yarns.

5. The basketball net ofclaim 2, wherein the first antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn includes a first yarn having antimicrobial, moisture wicking characteristics covered by a second yarn having antimicrobial, moisture wicking characteristics.

6. The basketball net ofclaim 5, wherein the first antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn includes a first linear density and a first thread count,

wherein the second yarn has a second linear density that is the same as the first linear density, and

wherein the second yarn has a second thread count that is the same as the first thread count.

7. The basketball net ofclaim 1, wherein the first antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber includes a first synthetic fiber including a first antimicrobial nanoparticle, and

wherein the second antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber includes a second synthetic fiber including a second antimicrobial nanoparticle.

8. The basketball net ofclaim 7, wherein the first antimicrobial nanoparticle is a first metal nanoparticle including at least one of silver and copper; and

wherein the second antimicrobial nanoparticle is a second metal nanoparticle including at least one of silver and copper.

9. The basketball net ofclaim 7, wherein the first antimicrobial nanoparticle is a distributed substantially uniformly throughout the first antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber; and

wherein the second antimicrobial nanoparticle is a distributed substantially uniformly throughout the second antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber.

10. The basketball net ofclaim 1, wherein at least one of the first antimicrobial fiber and the second antimicrobial fiber is sprayed with an antimicrobial solution.

11. The basketball net ofclaim 1, wherein the basketball net is dipped in an antimicrobial solution.

12. A removable label employed with the basketball net ofclaim 1, wherein the removable label includes a body with a plurality of corners and having a front surface with indicia displayed thereon,

wherein a tab extends radially outward from each of the plurality of corners, respectively,

wherein an adhesive region is provided on a rear surface of each of the respective tabs,

wherein a central adhesive region is provided on a rear surface of the body,

wherein an adhesive free region is located between the central adhesive region and each of the respective tabs, the adhesive free region sized and shaped to locate the multi-layer cord proximate the rear surface and absent contact between the multilayer cord and either the respective adhesive regions provided on the rear surface of the respective tabs or the central adhesive region, with the respective tabs folded around the multilayer cord to securely attach the removable label to the basketball net.

13. A basketball goal, comprising

a backboard;

a rim configured to secure to the backboard; and

a basketball net configured to hang from the rim, the basketball net comprising a multi-layer cord including each of an outer layer formed of a first antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber and an inner layer including a second antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber.

14. The basketball goal ofclaim 13, wherein the outer layer is woven from a first antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn to form a wall that defines a central opening, and

wherein at least one cord is located within the central opening, the at least one cord formed by a second antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn.

15. The basketball net ofclaim 14, wherein the at least one cord includes a plurality of cords including a first cord formed by the second antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn and a second cord including a third antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn.

16. The basketball net ofclaim 15, wherein the plurality of cords includes: the first cord; the second cord including the third antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn and at least one monofiber yarn; and a third cord formed by a plurality of monofiber yarns.

17. A method of fabricating a basketball net, comprising:

providing a first yarn having both antimicrobial properties and moisture wicking properties;

providing a second yarn having both antimicrobial properties and moisture wicking properties;

fabricating an outer cord of the basketball net from the first yarn, the outer cord defining a central axial opening within the outer cord;

fabricating an inner cord of the basketball net with the second yarn; and

fabricating a net-cord material by locating the inner cord longitudinally within the central axial opening.

18. The method ofclaim 17, further comprising:

manufacturing the first yarn from a first synthetic fiber having antimicrobial nanoparticles distributed within the first synthetic fiber; and

manufacturing the second yarn from a second synthetic fiber having antimicrobial nanoparticles distributed within the second synthetic fiber.

19. The method ofclaim 18, wherein the inner cord is a first inner cord, and wherein the method further comprises:

manufacturing a third yarn from a plurality of synthetic monofibers;

fabricating a second inner cord of the basketball net with the third yarn; and

fabricating the net-cord material by locating the second inner cord longitudinally within the central axial opening.

20. The method ofclaim 19, wherein the synthetic monofiber is a first synthetic monofiber, and wherein the method further comprises:

manufacturing a fourth yarn from third synthetic fiber having antimicrobial nanoparticles distributed within the third synthetic fiber;

manufacturing a fifth yarn from a plurality of synthetic monofibers;

fabricating a third inner cord from a combination of the fourth yarn and the fifth yarn; and

fabricating the net-cord material by locating the third inner cord longitudinally within the central axial opening.

21. An antimicrobial, moisture wicking material for sports netting, comprising:

a multi-layer cord including each of an outer layer formed of a first antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber and an inner layer including a second antimicrobial, moisture wicking fiber.

22. The antimicrobial, moisture wicking material for sports netting ofclaim 21,

wherein the outer layer is woven from a first antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn to form a wall that defines a central opening, and

wherein at least one cord is located within the central opening, the at least one cord formed by a second antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn.

23. The antimicrobial, moisture wicking material for sports netting ofclaim 22, wherein the at least one cord includes a plurality of cords including a first cord formed by the second antimicrobial, moisture wicking yarn and a second cord formed by a monofiber yarn.

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