HK1188171A - Electronic component enclosure for an inflated object - Google Patents

Description

Electronic component enclosure for a gas-filled object

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims the benefit of U.S. application serial No. 12/876,790 filed on 7/9/2010. The disclosure of the prior application is considered part of the disclosure of the present application (and is incorporated by reference).

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a package for securely holding an electronic component.

Technical Field

Basketball's sport has become increasingly popular since the beginning of the late 19 th century. Players of varying skill levels from professionals to universities and high school athletes to amateur players of various ages play basketball worldwide. Basketball involves a variety of movements and skills that require varying degrees of muscle control and hand-eye coordination. Coaches and trainers employ various techniques to improve the muscle control and hand-eye coordination of the athlete, thereby improving the athlete's ball control and shot.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention provides methods and materials for securely retaining electronic components within an inflatable object. For example, the present invention provides a basketball having a protective cover structure for securely holding one or more electronic components (e.g., sensors and/or batteries) within the basketball.

In general, one aspect of the invention features an inflatable object that includes or consists essentially of: (a) an interior compartment to be inflated with air, and (b) a pocket compartment (defining an internal cavity configured to house an electronic component, wherein the air inflated to the interior compartment is separated from the internal cavity of the pocket compartment. The inner cavity may be open to the outside air. At least a portion of the pocket compartment may be flexible, such that inflating the interior compartment with air causes the portion of the pocket compartment to flex. At least a portion of the pocket compartment may be flexible such that inflating the interior compartment with air causes the portion of the pocket compartment to flex and the flexing portion of the pocket compartment increases a compressive force applied to the electronic component when the internal cavity contains the electronic component, thereby reducing a likelihood of movement of the electronic component within the internal cavity relative to the pocket compartment. The pocket compartment may be flexible. When the internal cavity contains an electronic component, inflating the internal compartment with air causes the flexible pocket compartment to press against the electronic component. Inflating the interior compartment with air causes the flexible pocket compartment to stiffen, thereby reducing vibration noise. The inflatable object may be, for example, a basketball, american football, volleyball, or soccer ball. The pocket compartment may include a body portion having a flexible wall configured to: when the internal compartment is inflated and when the electronic component is present within the internal cavity, inward pressure is directly applied to the electronic component. The pocket compartment may include a body portion having a flexible wall configured to: when the internal compartment is inflated and when the electronic component is present within the internal cavity, inward pressure is indirectly applied to the electronic component. The pocket compartment may include a removable cover. The removable cover may define an aperture. The removable cover may define an aperture such that the interior cavity is provided with an opening to the outside air. The electronic component may be a circuit board including at least one motion sensor. The inflatable object may include a battery and a motion sensor located within the internal cavity. The internal cavity can be open to external air pressure without compromising the pressure of the internal compartment.

In another aspect, the invention features an inflatable basketball that includes or consists essentially of: (a) an interior compartment to be inflated with air, and (b) a pocket compartment defining an interior cavity configured to house an electronic component, wherein the air inflated to the interior compartment is separated from the interior cavity of the pocket compartment, and at least a portion of the pocket compartment is flexible, whereby inflating the interior compartment with air causes the portion of the pocket compartment to flex. When the internal cavity contains an electronic component, inflating the internal compartment with air causes the portion of the pocket compartment to press against the electronic component. Inflating the interior compartment with air causes the portion of the pocket compartment to stiffen, thereby reducing vibration noise.

In yet another aspect, the invention features an inflatable object that includes or consists essentially of: (a) an inner bladder configured to be inflated with air, (b) an outer layer configured to form at least a portion of an outer surface of the inflatable object, and (c) a housing including an interior compartment configured to house an interior cavity of an electronic component, wherein the air inflated to the inner bladder is separated from the interior compartment of the housing. The housing can include an outer wall, wherein the outer wall can be integral with at least a portion of the liner. Inflating the bladder with air may cause the housing to press against the electronic component when the interior compartment contains the electronic component. Inflating the interior compartment with air causes the housing to stiffen, thereby reducing vibration noise. At least a portion of the housing may be flexible, wherein inflating the bladder with air increases the pressure applied by the bladder to the housing, and wherein the increased pressure applied to the housing increases the pressure applied to the electronic component when the electronic component is present in the interior compartment.

In another aspect, the invention features an inflatable basketball that includes or consists essentially of: (a) an inner bladder configured to be inflated with air, (b) an outer layer configured to form at least a portion of an exterior surface of the basketball, (c) a housing including an interior compartment configured to house the removable motion sensor and the removable battery, wherein the air charged to the inner bladder is separated from the interior compartment of the housing, and (d) a removable cover configured to mate with the housing, wherein the removable cover defines an opening to enable air to flow from the interior compartment to an external environment outside of the inflatable basketball, and wherein the opening is configured to access the battery charging input to the removable battery without removing the cover. The outer wall may be integral with at least a portion of the liner. Inflating the bladder with air may cause the housing to press against the electronic component when the interior compartment contains the electronic component. Inflating the interior compartment with air causes the housing to stiffen, thereby reducing vibration noise. At least a portion of the housing may be flexible, wherein inflating the bladder with air increases the pressure applied by the bladder to the housing, and wherein the increased pressure applied to the housing increases the pressure applied to the removable motion sensor when the removable motion sensor is present in the interior compartment.

These and other embodiments described herein may provide one or more of the following benefits. The electronic components may be securely held within the inflatable object. The accuracy of the motion data recorded by the sensor held within the enclosure may be improved by reducing the vibration noise detected by the sensor. The sensor capsule may be securely fixed to the inflated object. Pressure from the bladder of the inflated object may be applied to the enclosure to more securely retain the electronic components held within the enclosure.

In some cases, the compressible capsules provided herein may be configured to maximize the ratio of stiffness to gravity, thereby allowing the capsule to be lightweight while providing the level of stiffness needed to secure the sensor or sensors and dampening possible vibrations generated during normal use (e.g., typical basketball). When the inflatable object (e.g., a basketball) is deflated, the electronics can be easily mounted within the enclosure, and then the increase in air pressure can secure the electronics in place. In some cases, the mounting of the electronics does not affect the integrity of the inflatable seal. The compressibility of the capsule may be designed such that the rigidity of the capsule increases with increasing pressure. In some cases, the methods and materials provided herein can quickly insert sensors, increase sensor stability within an inflatable object, reduce external noise that can affect measurements, and enable future removal of sensors.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, suitable methods and materials are described herein. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

Further details of one or more examples are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description and from the claims, and from the drawings.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an enclosure or protective cover structure for securely holding an electronic component relative to a pneumatic object.

Fig. 2 is a side view of the enclosure of fig. 1.

Fig. 3 is a top view of the enclosure of fig. 1 with the cover removed.

Fig. 4 is a translucent perspective view of the enclosure of fig. 1.

Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an inflatable object having an enclosure or protective cover structure for securely holding electronic components.

Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an enclosure or protective cover structure for securely holding an electronic component relative to a gas-filled object.

Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an inflatable object having an enclosure or protective cover structure for securely holding electronic components.

Fig. 8 is a flow chart of an exemplary method of use of a capsule that securely holds electronic components.

Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

Detailed Description

The present invention provides methods and materials for securely retaining electronic components within an inflatable object. For example, the present invention provides inflatable objects (e.g., inflatable balls such as basketballs, soccer balls, volleyballs, and american footballs) having a protective cover structure or enclosure for securely retaining one or more electronic components (e.g., sensors and/or batteries) within the inflatable objects. As described herein, the protective cover structure or enclosure can be configured such that the electronic components positioned within the protective cover structure or enclosure are not within the bladder of the inflatable object. For example, an inflatable object such as a basketball may be designed with a protective cage structure or enclosure configured such that electronic components positioned within the protective cage structure or enclosure are located within the basketball, but not within the basketball's bladder. In this case, the inner container is a compartment inflated with air. For example, the bladder of an inflatable object such as a basketball can withstand air pressures of about 7 pounds per square foot (psi) to about 9 psi. Since the air pressure within the bladder of the inflatable object may be between about 7psi and about 9psi and the electronic components positioned within the protective cover structure or enclosure can be located outside of the bladder of the basketball, the air pressure to which the electronic components are exposed may be substantially atmospheric pressure. In some cases, the electronic components may be open to or in contact with outside air, which is different from the pressurized air within the bladder of the inflatable object.

When the bladder of the inflatable object is inflated with increased air pressure, one or more wall members of the protective cover structure or enclosure may deform or compress such that the one or more wall members directly press against one or more electronic components within the protective cover structure or enclosure, thereby securely holding or positioning the electronic components. In some cases, one or more wall members may press against one or more other structures (e.g., foam inserts) that directly press against one or more electronic components within the protective cover structure or enclosure, thereby securely holding or positioning the electronic components. In some cases, the deformable wall members compress, resulting in increased stiffness of the overall system (e.g., the protective enclosure, electronics, and bladder).

Referring to fig. 1, a sensor capsule 100 may be used to hold or position various electronic components. In some cases, the sensor capsule 100 can be integral with the bladder of the inflatable object, integral with the housing of the inflatable object, or can be configured to be securely attached to the inflatable object. Examples of inflatable objects that can be used in conjunction with sensor capsule 100 include, but are not limited to, basketballs, volleyballs, american football, soccer balls, and inflatable punching bags. For example, sensor capsule 100 can be integrated into or attached to a standard full-size basketball having an inflated perimeter of about 29.5 inches. As another example, sensor capsule 100 can be integrated into or attached to a standard medium-sized basketball having an inflated perimeter of about 28.5 inches. The electronic components held or secured in place by the sensor capsule 100 may include one or more motion sensors for recording motion data of the inflatable object of which the sensor capsule 100 is a part and detecting motion of the inflatable object. The athletic data collected by the sensors may be used to analyze various athletic techniques and abilities, such as ball control techniques, dribbling techniques, and shooting techniques, which may be used to analyze the skill level of the athlete and help improve the athlete's skill and abilities.

Sensor capsule 100 may include an extended lip 102 attached to a body portion 104. As more clearly seen in fig. 3 and 4, the extending lip 102 extends around the body portion 104 to form a circle (e.g., a full circle). In some cases, the extended lip 102 is molded or vulcanized during the manufacturing process, and as a result, the extended lip becomes integral with a layer of the protective cover structure or enclosure (e.g., a bladder layer or an outer shell layer). In some embodiments, the extended lip 102 may extend further in some directions than in others (e.g., to form an oval shape). In the example shown in fig. 1-4, the extended lip portion 102 is made from a single piece of material with the body portion 104. In some embodiments, the extended lip 102 and the body portion 104 are made of different pieces and are secured to each other. The extended lip portion 102 and the body portion 104 can be made of, for example, rubber, flexible or semi-flexible plastic, leather, or composite leather (e.g., synthetic leather).

As will be explained in more detail below, the sensor capsule 100 may be secured to or integral with a basketball or other inflatable object. For example, the sensor enclosure 100 can be designed such that all or a portion of the extended lip 102 becomes integral with the inner bladder. In some cases, the thickness of the liner at the region including the lip 102 is greater than the thickness of the liner at other regions. For example, the extended lip 102, when integrated into the liner, can increase the material thickness of the liner in the area around the sensor enclosure. In some cases, the liner material may form an interface that is flush with a top surface of the sensor enclosure 100 at, for example, the upper portion 106. When manufactured, the upper portion 106 may be placed in an opening in the liner. Once inserted, a treatment (e.g., vulcanization) can be performed at the extended lip 102 and the upper portion 106 to cause the material of the extended lip 102 and the upper portion 106 to become integral with the material of the liner.

In some embodiments, the sensor capsule 100 may be fixed to or made integral with the inflatable object, while an upper portion 106 of the sensor capsule 100 extends above (or not) the surface of the inflatable object and/or the extended lip 102, which upper portion 106 may form a portion of the outer surface of the inflatable object.

In some cases, when the upper portion 106 of the sensor capsule 100 and/or the upper surface of the cover 120 are configured to be exposed to the exterior surface, the upper portion 106 of the sensor capsule 100 and/or the upper surface of the cover 120 may be textured to match the texture of the exterior surface layer of the inflatable object. In some cases, a separate layer of textured material may be placed on or secured to the upper surface of the cover 120 and/or the upper portion 106, such that the separate layer of textured material matches the texture of the outer surface layer of the inflatable object. Such a separate layer may be designed with an opening that can be aligned with the opening of the cover 120.

The sensor capsule 100 may form an internal cavity 108 disposed within the body portion 104. The interior cavity 108 may house one or more electronic components including a battery 110 and one or more circuit boards 112. The battery 110 may provide power to the circuit board 112 and other electronic components housed within the sensor capsule 100. The battery 110 may be, for example, a primary battery (e.g., non-rechargeable), an alkaline battery, or a rechargeable battery, such as a nickel metal hydride, lithium ion, lithium polymer, or zinc oxide battery. The circuit board 112 may include various electronic components including sensors such as motion sensors (e.g., accelerometers, angular rate gyroscopes, and magnetometers), temperature sensors, and pressure sensors. The sensor may be configured, for example, to record data related to the motion of an inflated object to which or a portion of which the sensor capsule 100 is attached. For example, the sensors may measure angular velocity, acceleration, linear velocity, and/or deceleration of the inflatable object. As another example, the sensor may measure the number of times the basketball bounces or is touched within a set period of time. Also for example, the sensor may measure the angle at which the inflated object is in contact with a surface (e.g., a floor). As another example, a sensor may measure the rotational angular velocity of a basketball to which or a portion of which the sensor capsule 100 is attached. Also for example, sensors may measure the frequency and force with which the punching bag is struck or otherwise contacted. As another example, the sensor may measure the number of times a soccer ball is contacted within a set period of time. For example, the sensor may also measure the angular velocity of rotation of a spinning american football, the arc of a shot, the rotational axis and rate of rotation of a shot, or the speed at which the american football is played.

Sensor enclosure 100 may include a spacer 114 for separating battery 110 from circuit board 112 and more securely holding battery 110 and circuit board 112 in place. The divider 114 may be made of, for example, rubber, plastic, foam, or another suitable material. In some embodiments, the material selected for the spacers 114 may suitably absorb the impact to hold the battery 110 and the circuit board 112 in place while absorbing at least a portion of the impact force when the inflatable object to which the sensor enclosure 100 is attached is in contact with a surface or another object.

Referring to fig. 2, the sensor capsule 100 may include a fixation member 115. In some embodiments, the securing member 115 may be foam, rubber, or another material, and the securing member 115 is inserted into the internal cavity 108 to secure the battery 110 and the circuit board 112 in place. In some embodiments, the securing member 115 may be constructed in one piece as part of the body portion 104. Similar to the spacer 114, the material used to make the securing member 115 may be selected to suitably absorb the impact to hold the battery 110 and the circuit board 112 in place while absorbing at least a portion of the impact force when the inflatable object to which the sensor enclosure 100 is attached is in contact with a surface or another object. In some embodiments, one or more of the securing members in combination with the divider 114 may form a compartment within the internal cavity 108 to receive the battery 110 and the circuit board 112.

Referring again to fig. 1, the internal cavity 108 may include additional space 116 to accommodate additional wiring, electronic components, or foam packaging. For example, the additional space 116 may house wires connecting the battery 110 to the circuit board 112 and a foam package for securing the battery 110 and the circuit board 112 in place within the internal cavity 108. In some embodiments, the internal cavity 108 is specifically sized to provide a snug fit for the battery 110 and the circuit board 112.

The sensor capsule 100 also includes a hole 118 through the upper portion 106 to the inner cavity 108. The aperture 118 may be configured to receive a cap 120. In some cases, the cover 120 is configured to provide a flush or near flush surface along the outer surface of the inflatable object. In some cases, the cover 120 may help ensure that components stored within the internal cavity 108 remain fixed in place while the internal cavity 108 is separated from the external environment of the sensor enclosure 100. The cover 120 may be made of, for example, rubber, plastic, foam, leather, or composite leather. In some cases, the cap 120 and the internal cavity 108 may be configured to have mating surfaces such that the cap 120 remains in place within at least a portion of the internal cavity 108. For example, as shown in the example, the cover 120 may have a flared bottom to more securely retain the cover 120 within the aperture 118. The sensor capsule 100 may include a groove 121 for receiving the flared bottom of the lid 120. The groove 121 extends one turn around the inner cavity 108. In some cases, the mating surfaces are interchangeable such that the cover 120 includes a recess or other suitable structure, while the internal cavity 108 includes a flared or other suitable structure.

As can be seen in fig. 6 and 7, the lid 120 may be configured to extend above the upper surface of the enclosure 100 (e.g., above the upper portion 106). In this case, the cover 120 may provide a flush or near flush surface along the outer surface of the inflatable object.

As seen in fig. 2 and 4, in some embodiments, the cover 120 may include an aperture 122 therethrough. The aperture 122 may allow the inner cavity 108 to be open to the external environment. In this case, the cavity pressure within the internal cavity 108 may be substantially equal to the air pressure of the external environment. In some embodiments, the cover 120 may be solid and include no holes to allow a pressure differential between the interior cavity 108 and the external environment.

Referring to fig. 3, a top view of the sensor enclosure 100 is shown with the cover 120 removed to illustrate the structure of the fixation member 115, the battery 110, the circuit board 112, and the separator 114 within the internal cavity 108. As can be seen, these components are disposed within the internal cavity 108 to minimize lateral movement of the battery 110 and the circuit board 112 within the sensor enclosure 100.

Referring again to fig. 1, the sensor enclosure 100 may include a groove 124 below the extended lip 102. In some cases, the sensor capsule may be provided without the groove 124. As can be seen in fig. 4, the groove 124 may extend around the body portion 104 of the extended lip 102 to form a circular groove. The groove 124 may be configured to vibrationally isolate the enclosure from the housing of the inflatable object. When the housing of the inflatable object vibrates due to an impact condition (e.g., the ball rebounds from the ground), the housing resonates. The grooves 124 may reduce the transmission of these vibrations to the enclosure, thereby limiting the sensor from sensing these vibrations, which are not indicative of the overall movement of the ball, and thereby limiting the ability of the sensor enclosure to absorb rebound energy from the ball, which would reduce the rebound performance of the ball.

In some embodiments, the sensor enclosure 100 is integrally formed with the bladder of the inflatable object, and thus, the extended lip 102 is integrally formed with the bladder. In some embodiments, the upper surface of the extended lip 102 is in contact with the inner surface of the bladder of the inflatable object, and thus, the upper portion 106 protrudes through the opening in the bladder. In some embodiments, sensor capsule 100 is positioned such that the top surfaces of upper portion 106 and lid 120 are flush or nearly flush with the outer surface of the inner bladder. In some embodiments, the sensor capsule 100 is positioned such that the top surfaces of the upper portion 106 and the cover 120 are flush or nearly flush with the outer surface of the outer layer of the inflatable object. In some cases, the material of the liner and the material of the extended lip 102 can be treated (e.g., vulcanized) to form an integral unit. In some cases, it is the bottom surface of the extended lip 102 that can mate with and be secured to the liner when curing is performed, rather than the top surface of the extended lip 102.

In some embodiments, the upper surface of the extended lip 102 can be in contact with the inner surface of the outer layer of the inflatable object, such that the upper portion 106 protrudes through the opening in the outer layer, and the top surfaces of the cover 120 and the upper portion 106 are flush or nearly flush with the outer surface of the outer layer. In some cases, the material of the liner and the material of the extended lip 102 can be treated (e.g., vulcanized) to form an integral unit. In some cases, the material of the outer layer and the material of the extended lip 102 may be treated (e.g., vulcanized) to form an integral unit.

In some cases, the bottom of the extended lip 102 may be in contact with the outer surface of the liner. In some embodiments, the sensor capsule 100 is secured to an inflatable object (e.g., a basketball) by applying an adhesive to the bottom surface of the extended lip 102 to form a seal between the extended lip 102 and the bladder. Examples of adhesives that can be used include, but are not limited to, rubber glues and two-part (two part) epoxies. In some cases, the top of the extended lip 102 may be in contact with the inner surface of the liner. The extended lip 102 can be secured to the inner surface of the liner with an adhesive to form a seal between the extended lip 102 and the liner.

In some alternative embodiments, the groove 124 may be configured to receive an edge of an opening in a surface of the inflatable object when the sensor capsule 100 is secured to the inflatable object. For example, the sensor capsule 100 may be attached to a basketball by inserting the body portion 104 through an opening in the surface of the basketball. The bottom of the extended lip 102 may contact the exterior of the surface of the basketball, while the interior surface of the groove 124 contacts the edge of the opening in the surface of the basketball. In some cases, the material of the inflatable object (e.g., a basketball) and the material of the extended lip 102 may be treated (e.g., vulcanized) to form an integral unit. In some cases, the bottom surface of 102 can mate with the liner and be secured together when curing is performed.

In some embodiments, sensor capsule 100 is secured to an inflatable object (e.g., a basketball) by applying an adhesive to the bottom surface of extended lip 102 to form a seal between extended lip 102 and the outer surface of the inflatable object. Examples of adhesives that can be used include, but are not limited to, rubber glues and two-part epoxies.

In some cases, the extended lip 102 can include a tapered edge 126. The tapered edge 126 may allow the enclosure to better conform to the interior of the sphere to which it is attached.

As described above, in some embodiments, the sensor enclosure 100 can be made integral with the inner bladder of the inflatable object. For example, many inflatable objects, such as basketballs, american football, soccer balls, volleyballs, and certain types of punching bags, are manufactured with an outer layer (e.g., leather, rubber, or synthetic composites) surrounding a bladder (e.g., a rubber bladder). The inflated object is inflated by inserting a needle through a valve disposed through the outer layer and the inner bladder and pumping air into the inner bladder to pressurize an internal environment of the inflated object. For example, the basketball may be substantially inflated to an internal pressure of between 7 and 9 psi. In some embodiments, the valve is located on the inflated object at a different location than the sensor capsule 100. In some embodiments, the valve may be located on an end of the gas-filled object opposite the sensor capsule 100. For example, the sensor capsule 100 may be attached to the top of a "basketball," while the valve is substantially or precisely 180 degrees from the sensor capsule 100, at the "bottom" of the basketball. When the valve is exactly 180 degrees from the sensor, capsule material may be added to this value and nearby during the manufacturing process to balance the weight of the construction (e.g., to offset the additional mass of the capsule, electronics, and lid).

In some embodiments, the sensor enclosure 100 is integrally formed with the bladder of the inflatable object such that the body portion 104 extends into an interior region of the bladder. The sensor enclosure 100 can be positioned to separate the inner cavity 108 from the internal environment of the liner. This allows a pressure differential (e.g., between 7 and 9 psi) to develop between the internal environment of the bladder and the lumen 108 when the lumen 108 is inflated. The walls of the body portion 104 may be made of a flexible material, and thus, the pressure differential between the internal environment of the bladder and the internal cavity 108 may allow the walls of the body portion 104 to flex inwardly and apply pressure to the battery 110 and the circuit board 112.

By allowing pressure from the pressurized bladder to be imparted to the body portion 104, the sensor capsule 100 may allow internal components, including the battery 110 and the circuit board 112, to be more securely held in place within the internal cavity 108. Fixing the position of the circuit board 112 within the sensor enclosure 100 may reduce vibration noise or interference that can be detected by motion sensors contained within the circuit board 112. This allows the motion sensor to make clearer and more accurate measurements of the motion of a gas-filled object containing the sensor capsule 100, where the measurements are relatively independent of vibration noise caused by secondary vibrations of the sensor capsule itself.

In some cases, the cover 120 includes an aperture 122, the aperture 122 allowing the internal cavity 108 to be open to an environment external to an inflatable object to which the sensor capsule 100 is attached or integrally formed therewith. This allows the pressure within the internal cavity 108 to equalize with the pressure of the environment external to the inflatable object. When the bladder of the inflatable object is pressurized, the pressure differential between the internal pressure of the bladder and the pressure of the external environment (also the pressure within the interior cavity 108) causes the walls of the body portion 104 to flex inward and apply pressure to the internal components of the sensor capsule 100 to securely retain these components.

In some embodiments, the sensor capsule 100 can be attached to or integrated into an inflated object so as not to be located within or pierce the bladder of the inflated object. The sensor capsule 100 can be attached to an inflatable object having a bladder such that the body portion 104 extends through an opening in an outer layer of the inflatable object, but remains outside the bladder. This configuration may allow the sensor enclosure 100 to remain outside of the pressurized environment within the inner bladder when the inner bladder is inflated. When the inner bladder is pressurized, the outer surface of the inner bladder may contact the outer surface of the main body portion 104 and apply pressure to the main body portion 104. In some embodiments, the body portion 104 can be made of a flexible or semi-flexible material to allow at least a portion of the pressure applied by the bladder to be applied to the internal components housed within the internal cavity 108.

For example, when the bladder is pressurized, an outer surface of the bladder may press against an outer surface of the body portion 104 and apply pressure to the outer surface of the body portion 104. Referring to fig. 2 and 4, as the pressure applied to the outer surface of the body portion 104 increases, one or more walls of the body portion 104 may be pressed inward, thereby contracting the internal cavity 108 and further causing the securing member 115 to apply pressure to the battery 110 and the circuit board 112 to hold the battery 110 and the circuit board 112 more securely in place than if the body portion 104 were not exposed to external pressure. The compression of the enclosure may intentionally result in a more rigid overall system than when the inflatable object is deflated. In some embodiments, the holes 122 through the cover 120 may allow the pressure of the inner chamber 108 to be maintained at the same pressure as the outside environment, and thus, the pressure exerted by the bladder is more effective when the pressure of the inner chamber 108 is greater than the outside ambient pressure.

By allowing the bladder of the inflatable article to impart pressure to the body portion 104, the sensor capsule 100 may more securely hold the internal components, including the battery 110 and the circuit board 112, in place within the internal cavity 108. Fixing the position of the circuit board 112 within the sensor enclosure 100 may reduce vibration noise or interference that may be detected by a motion sensor included within the circuit board 112. This allows the motion sensor to make clearer and more accurate measurements of the motion of a gas-filled object containing the sensor capsule 100, where the measurements are relatively independent of vibration noise caused by secondary vibrations of the sensor capsule itself.

Referring to FIG. 2, the upper portion of the bore 118 has a diameter 202. The diameter 202 may be in a range of 15 millimeters to 30 millimeters (e.g., 15,16,18,18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29, or 30 millimeters). In some embodiments, the diameter 202 may be about 20 millimeters. In some embodiments, the diameter 202 may be about 21.675 millimeters. In some embodiments, the diameter of the upper portion of the cap 120 corresponds to the diameter 202. The middle portion of the bore 118 may have a diameter 203. Diameter 203 may be in the range of 15 millimeters to 30 millimeters (e.g., 15,16,18,18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29, or 30 millimeters) in some embodiments, diameter 203 may be about 20.611 millimeters. In some embodiments, the diameter of the middle portion of the cap 120 corresponds to the diameter 203.

The bottom of the inner cavity 108 may have a diameter 204. The diameter 204 may be in the range of 15 millimeters to 30 millimeters (e.g., 15,16,18,18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29, or 30 millimeters) in some embodiments, the diameter 204 may be about 23.25 millimeters. The bottom of the sensor capsule 100 may have a diameter 206. The diameter 206 may be in the range of 15 millimeters to 30 millimeters (e.g., 15,16,18,18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29, or 30 millimeters) in some embodiments, the diameter 206 may be about 28 millimeters. The sensor capsule may have a height 208. The height 208 may be in a range of 25 millimeters to 60 millimeters (e.g., 25,26,27,28,29,30,31,32,33,34,35,36,37,38,39,40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,48,49,50,51,52,53,54,55,56,57,58,59, or 60 millimeters). In some embodiments, the height 208 may be about 46 millimeters.

The lid 120 may have a height 210. Height 210 may be in the range of 5 millimeters to 20 millimeters (e.g., 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,18,18,19, or 20 millimeters) in some embodiments, height 210 may be about 15 millimeters. The top of the lid 120 may have a height 212. The height 212 may be within 0 millimeters to 10 millimeters (e.g., 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, or 10 millimeters). In some embodiments, the height 212 may be about 2 millimeters. The flared bottom of the cover 120 may have a height 214. The height 214 may be within 0 millimeters to 6 millimeters (e.g., 0,1,2,3,4,5, or 6 millimeters). In some embodiments, the height 214 may be about 3 millimeters. In some embodiments, the height of groove 121 may correspond to height 214.

The extended lip 102 may have a height 216. The height 216 may be within 1 millimeter to 5 millimeters (e.g., 1,2,3,4, or 5 millimeters). In some embodiments, the height 216 may be about 2 millimeters. Referring to fig. 1, the extended lip 102 may have a diameter 218. The diameter 218 may be in the range of 30 millimeters to 200 millimeters (e.g., 30,40,50,60,70,80,90,100,110,120,130,140,150,160,170,180,190, or 200 millimeters). In some embodiments, the diameter 218 may be about 70 millimeters.

In some embodiments, the sensor capsule 100 may include a charging port to allow a battery charger to be attached to the battery 110 to recharge the battery 110. For example, the cover 120 may be removed to expose the charging port. As another example, a portion of a battery charger may be inserted through aperture 122 to contact a charging port. In some embodiments, the charging port may be connected to a charger that plugs into a standard wall outlet and receives 125 volts ac. In other embodiments, the charging port may be connected to a standard USB computer port to transmit, for example, 5 volts dc.

In some cases, a sensor capsule provided herein can include a valve partially disposed within a bottom surface of a body portion. For example, the hole may extend through a bottom of the body portion of the sensor capsule. A valve (e.g., a rubber valve for receiving an inflation needle) may be located within or inserted into the bore and attached to the sensor capsule. The valve can provide a sealable path from the inner cavity of the sensor enclosure to the inner bladder of the inflatable object. In some cases, the cover and/or electronic components may be removed so that a standard inflation needle may inflate the inflatable object via a valve located in the interior cavity of the sensor capsule. In some cases, the valve may be positioned in alignment with an aperture (e.g., aperture 122) of the cap such that a needle (e.g., a long needle) may inflate the inflatable object without removing the cap and/or the electronic components.

A fill valve in combination with a sensor capsule provided herein can allow the sensor capsule to function as a stationary capsule for holding electronic components (such as battery 110 and circuit board 112) as well as a fill valve for inflating an object. This configuration may diminish the need to make separate openings in the surface of the inflatable object.

Referring now to fig. 5, an inflatable object 300 (e.g., a basketball) may include an outer layer 302 and an inner bladder 304. In some cases, a wrap layer (e.g., a nylon wrap layer) may be located between outer layer 302 and inner bladder 304. The sensor capsule 306 may be secured to the inflatable object 300. In some embodiments, the construction of sensor capsule 306 may be substantially similar to the construction of sensor capsule 100 shown in fig. 1-4. In some embodiments, sensor capsule 306 may have a different configuration than that of sensor capsule 100. The sensor enclosure 306 may securely hold electronic components such as one or more batteries, one or more circuit boards, one or more motion sensors (contained within or separate from the circuit boards), a charging port for receiving a battery charger, and/or wiring for electrically connecting the electronic components housed within the sensor enclosure 306.

As described above with reference to sensor enclosure 100, sensor enclosure 306 includes an extended lip 308 for mating with inner bladder 304. In the example shown in fig. 5, the upper surface of the extended lip 308 mates with the inner surface of the inflatable object 300. In some cases, the material of the bladder and all or a portion of the extended lip 308 can be treated (e.g., vulcanized) to form an integral unit. In some cases, the extended lip 308 can be secured to the liner 304 using an adhesive, such as a rubber cement or a two-part epoxy.

In some embodiments, the sensor enclosure 306 is attached to the inner bladder 304 such that a portion of the sensor enclosure 306 extends through the hole 310 in the inner bladder 304 and an upper surface of the sensor enclosure 306 is flush or nearly flush with an outer surface of the inner bladder 304. In some such embodiments, the inflatable object 300 may include a cover 312 (e.g., separate from the cover of the sensor enclosure 306), the cover 312 fitting into a hole 314 in the outer layer 302. Cover 312 may be inserted into aperture 314 to form a smooth continuous surface with outer layer 302 while allowing access to sensor enclosure 306. For example, the cover 312 may be removed to allow access to the charging port of the sensor enclosure 306. The sensor enclosure 306 may, for example, include a cover (separate from the cover 312) having an aperture therethrough. In some cases, the cover 312 may be formed with an opening that may be positioned to align with an opening present in the cover that is enclosed within the sensor enclosure 306. This alignment of the openings may allow a user to insert wire connections to charge the battery located within sensor enclosure 306. In some cases, the cover 312 may be removed from the inflatable object 300 to expose the aperture and allow the battery charger to be inserted into the aperture to mate with the charging port of the sensor enclosure 306.

In some embodiments, the cover 312 may be made of rubber, flexible or semi-flexible plastic, leather, or composite leather (e.g., synthetic leather). In some embodiments, the cover 312 is made of the same material as the outer layer 302. In some embodiments, the cap 312 is held in place within the aperture 314 by a friction fit. In some embodiments, the cap 312 and the aperture 314 may be threaded to allow the cap 312 to be threaded onto the inflatable object 300.

In some embodiments, a portion of the sensor capsule 306 may pass through the hole 310 and the hole 314, such that an upper surface of the sensor capsule 306 is flush or nearly flush with an outer surface of the outer layer 302. In some embodiments, the extended lip 308 can be secured to an outer surface of the inner bladder 304. In some embodiments, the extended lip 308 may be secured to an inner or outer surface of the outer layer 302.

Referring now to fig. 8, a method 800 of using a capsule for securely holding electronic components includes, but is not limited to, the step 802 of obtaining a capsule. Such an enclosure may be obtained by molding the enclosure as a separate article. At step 804, the enclosure may be secured to the inner bladder. For example, the enclosure can be made integral with the bladder of the inflatable object in a molding process used to create the bladder. In some cases, the material of the inner bladder and the material of all or a portion of the enclosure may be processed (e.g., vulcanized) to form an integral unit.

In some cases, the enclosure may include a flared portion extending radially outward from a main body of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the flared portion may engage an inner surface of the liner, with the body of the enclosure extending into the liner and the top of the enclosure passing through the aperture in the liner. In some embodiments, the flared portion can fit onto the outer surface of the liner while the body of the enclosure extends into the interior of the liner. In some cases, the material of the inflatable object around the opening and the material of the expanded portion of the enclosure may be processed (e.g., vulcanized), thus creating a continuous flow of material and the enclosure becomes integral with the inflatable object.

In some cases, the interior of the bladder may be separated from the environment external to the inflatable object to allow the bladder to have a pressure different from the pressure of the external environment. Upon securing the enclosure to the liner, the enclosure is positioned relative to the liner such that an inner cavity of the enclosure is separated from an internal environment of the liner. The inflatable object may be, for example, a basketball, a volleyball, a soccer ball, or an inflatable punching bag.

In some embodiments, a seal is formed between the extended lip of the enclosure and the outer surface of the liner. For example, the extended lip can be secured to the liner using an adhesive such as epoxy. Also for example, a vacuum seal can be formed between the extended lip and the liner. Also for example, a friction seal can be formed between the extended lip and the liner.

In some embodiments, the enclosure is positioned such that a top portion of the enclosure passes through an opening in an outer layer of the inflatable object. For example, the outer layer of the inflatable object may include openings therethrough. An upper portion of the enclosure may be positioned within the opening, thus exposing a top surface of the enclosure to an environment external to the inflatable object. In some embodiments, the top surface of the enclosure is flush or nearly flush with the outer surface of the outer layer. In some embodiments, the enclosure includes a lid inserted into the top, and the top surface of the lid is flush or nearly flush with the outer surface of the outer layer. In some embodiments, the lid may be removed to allow external access to components positioned within the interior cavity of the enclosure.

At step 806, a wrap layer may be added to the liner. The winding layer may be applied such that the winding does not cover the opening of the envelope. At step 808, a shell layer may be added to the winding layer. The envelope layer may be applied such that it does not cover the opening of the enclosure. At step 810, the electronic component may be positioned in a secure manner within the enclosure. For example, the interior cavity of the enclosure may include one or more receiving slots for receiving various electronic components. The component may be inserted into the receiving groove. In some embodiments, foam or other materials may be used as securing members for separating various electronic components and securing the electronic components in place. In some embodiments, the fixation member may have shock absorbing properties to absorb motion imparted to the enclosure. The electronic components may include one or more batteries, one or more circuit boards, or one or more sensors. The sensors may be, for example, motion sensors (e.g., accelerometers, angular rate gyroscopes, and magnetometers) to detect motion of an inflatable object having an enclosure. Also for example, the sensor may be a temperature or pressure sensor. In some embodiments, the included sensor may be part of a circuit board.

At step 812, a lid may be inserted into the top of the enclosure. For example, a rubber stopper type cover may be inserted into a hole provided in the top of the capsule. The cap can be secured by a friction fit or snap-in. In some cases, the cover may be secured by an adhesive such as a rubber cement or a two-component epoxy. The cover may be designed to provide a smooth surface to the inflatable object in the region of the sensor enclosure. In some embodiments, the lid may include an opening to allow air to flow between an inner cavity of the enclosure (e.g., a cavity holding the electronic component) and an environment external to the enclosure. The opening may allow the cavity pressure within the enclosure to equalize with the external air pressure.

At step 814, the bladder of the inflatable object may be inflated to impart pressure on at least one outer surface of the enclosure. For example, the bladder may be inflated until the internal pressure of the bladder exceeds the pressure of the interior cavity of the enclosure. The pressure imparted to the enclosure by the internal environment of the inner bladder may cause the inner cavity to contract, thereby more securely securing the electronic components within the enclosure. The additional pressure imparted to the enclosure by the bladder may stiffen the enclosure, which may result in a reduction in vibration noise or interference that may be detected by a motion sensor held within the enclosure. This allows the motion sensor to produce a clearer, more accurate measurement of the motion of the inflatable object, wherein the measurement is relatively independent of vibration noise caused by secondary vibrations of the sensor enclosure.

In some embodiments using method 800, more or fewer steps may be performed, or the steps may be performed in a different order. For example, the step of inserting the lid into the top of the enclosure can be performed after the step of securing the enclosure within the bladder of the inflatable object. As another example, the method 800 of use may further include the step of recording data regarding the movement of the inflatable object with a sensor contained within the enclosure.

A number of embodiments of the invention have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims (29)

1. An inflatable object, comprising:

(a) an interior compartment to be inflated with air, an

(b) A pocket compartment defining an internal cavity configured to house an electronic component, wherein air charged to the internal compartment is separated from the internal cavity of the pocket compartment.

2. The inflatable object of claim 1, wherein said interior cavity is open to the outside air.

3. The inflatable object of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of said pocket compartment is flexible, whereby inflation of said interior compartment with air causes said portion of said pocket compartment to flex.

4. The inflatable object of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the pocket compartment is flexible, such that inflating the interior compartment with air causes the portion of the pocket compartment to flex, and when the internal cavity contains an electronic component, the flexing portion of the pocket compartment increases a compressive force applied to the electronic component, thereby reducing a likelihood of movement of the electronic component within the internal cavity relative to the pocket compartment.

5. The inflatable object of claim 1, wherein said pocket compartment is flexible.

6. The inflatable object of claim 5, wherein when the interior cavity contains the electronic component, inflating the interior compartment with air causes the flexible pocket compartment to press against the electronic component.

7. The inflatable object of claim 6, wherein inflating said interior compartment with air causes said flexible pocket compartment to stiffen, thereby reducing vibration noise.

8. The inflatable object of claim 1, wherein said inflatable object is a basketball, american football, volleyball, or soccer ball.

9. The inflatable object of claim 1, wherein the pocket compartment comprises a body portion having a flexible wall configured to: when the interior compartment is inflated and when the electronic component is present within the interior cavity, inward pressure is directly applied to the electronic component.

10. The inflatable object of claim 1, wherein the pocket compartment comprises a body portion having a flexible wall configured to: when the interior compartment is inflated and when the electronic component is present within the interior cavity, inward pressure is indirectly applied to the electronic component.

11. The inflatable object of claim 1, wherein said pocket compartment comprises a removable cap.

12. The inflatable object of claim 8, wherein said removable cover defines an aperture.

13. The inflatable object of claim 8, wherein said removable cover defines an aperture to provide said interior cavity with an opening to the outside air.

14. The inflatable object of claim 1, wherein said electronic component is a circuit board comprising at least one motion sensor.

15. The inflatable object of claim 1, wherein said inflatable object comprises a battery and a motion sensor located within said interior cavity.

16. The inflatable object of claim 1, wherein said internal cavity is open to external air pressure without disrupting the pressure of said internal compartment.

17. An inflatable basketball, comprising:

(a) an interior compartment to be inflated with air, an

(b) A pocket compartment defining an internal cavity configured to house an electronic component, wherein air charged to the internal compartment is separated from the internal cavity of the pocket compartment, and at least a portion of the pocket compartment is flexible, whereby charging the internal compartment with air causes the portion of the pocket compartment to flex.

18. The inflatable basketball of claim 17, wherein when the internal cavity contains the electronic component, inflating the internal compartment with air causes the portion of the cavity compartment to press against the electronic component.

19. The inflatable basketball of claim 18, wherein inflating the interior compartment with air causes the portion of the cavity compartment to stiffen, thereby reducing vibration noise.

20. An inflatable object, comprising:

(a) an inner bladder configured to be inflated with air,

(b) an outer layer configured to form at least a portion of the outer surface of the inflatable object, an

(c) A housing including an interior compartment configured to house an interior cavity of an electronic component, wherein air charged to the inner bladder is separated from the interior compartment of the housing.

21. The inflatable object of claim 20, wherein said housing comprises an outer wall that is integral with at least a portion of said bladder.

22. The inflatable object of claim 20, wherein inflating the bladder with air causes the housing to press against the electronic component when the interior compartment contains the electronic component.

23. The inflatable object of claim 22, wherein inflating the interior compartment with air causes the housing to stiffen, thereby reducing vibration noise.

24. The inflatable object of claim 20, wherein at least a portion of the housing is flexible, inflating the bladder with the air increases a pressure applied by the bladder to the housing, and wherein when the electronic component is present in the interior compartment, the increased pressure applied to the housing increases the pressure applied to the electronic component.

25. An inflatable basketball, comprising:

(a) an inner bladder configured to be inflated with air,

(b) an outer layer configured to form at least a portion of the exterior surface of the basketball,

(c) a housing including an interior compartment configured to house a removable motion sensor and a removable battery, wherein air charged to the liner is separated from the interior compartment of the housing, an

(d) A removable cover configured to mate with the housing, wherein the removable cover defines an opening to enable air to flow from the interior compartment to an external environment outside of the inflatable basketball, and wherein the opening is configured to access a battery charging input to the removable battery without removing the cover.

26. The inflatable basketball of claim 25, wherein the shell includes an outer wall that is integral with at least a portion of the bladder.

27. The inflatable basketball of claim 25, wherein when the internal compartment contains the electronic components, inflating the inner bladder with air causes the shell to press against the electronic components.

28. The inflatable basketball of claim 27, wherein inflating the interior compartment with air causes the shell to stiffen, thereby reducing vibration noise.

29. The inflatable basketball of claim 25, wherein at least a portion of the shell is flexible, inflating the bladder with the air increases the pressure applied to the shell by the bladder, and wherein when the removable motion sensor is present in the interior compartment, the increased pressure applied to the shell increases the pressure applied to the removable motion sensor.