Three-Dimensional Panels for a Game Ball and Related Methods
First Claim
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1. A method of manufacturing a multi-layer outer panel for a game ball, the method comprising the steps of:
- a. three-dimensionally forming a top layer comprising a first material and having an outer surface and an inner surface, the outer surface of the top layer dimensioned to substantially correspond to a section of a surface of the ball;
b. three-dimensionally forming at least one backing layer comprising a second material and having an outer surface and an inner surface, the inner surface of the at least one backing layer dimensioned to substantially correspond to the section of the surface of the ball; and
c. connecting the inner surface of the top layer and the outer surface of the at least one backing layer, thereby forming the outer panel.
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Abstract
A method of manufacturing a multi-layer outer panel for a game ball includes three-dimensionally forming a top layer of an outer panel, as well as one or more backing materials disposed underneath the top layer, into a shape substantially corresponding to the surface of the ball. Multi-layer outer panels are then attached to or interconnected to surround an inflatable bladder, thereby producing a game ball while minimizing overstretching of the outer material or the backing material and improving resistance of the outer panels to delamination.
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Citations
32 Claims
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1. A method of manufacturing a multi-layer outer panel for a game ball, the method comprising the steps of:
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a. three-dimensionally forming a top layer comprising a first material and having an outer surface and an inner surface, the outer surface of the top layer dimensioned to substantially correspond to a section of a surface of the ball; b. three-dimensionally forming at least one backing layer comprising a second material and having an outer surface and an inner surface, the inner surface of the at least one backing layer dimensioned to substantially correspond to the section of the surface of the ball; and c. connecting the inner surface of the top layer and the outer surface of the at least one backing layer, thereby forming the outer panel. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24)
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25. A method for manufacturing a game ball, the method comprising the steps of:
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providing an air-impermeable bladder having a substantially spherical shape; providing a plurality of panels, each panel comprising; a three-dimensional top layer comprising a first material and having an outer surface and an inner surface, the outer surface of the top layer dimensioned to substantially correspond to a section of a surface of the ball, and at least one three-dimensional backing layer comprising a second material and having an outer surface and an inner surface, the outer surface of the at least one three-dimensional backing layer connected to the inner surface of the top layer; and interconnecting the edges of the panels, thereby forming an outer layer of the ball surrounding the bladder. - View Dependent Claims (26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32)
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Specification