Pickleball Paddle with Flex Throat

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/679,613 filed Aug. 5, 2024, the entire content of which is herein incorporated by reference.

FIELD

This disclosure relates to pickleball, and more particularly to pickleball paddles.

BACKGROUND

Pickleball, being a rapidly growing sport, is played by players who span a wide range of skill levels, ages, and physical capacities. The vibration generated in the paddle upon the striking blade hitting a ball may be substantial, and may affect the shots. Over time and continued use of the paddle, such vibrations can also impact players hands. Therefore, paddle manufacturers attempt to dampen vibrations in the paddle. Paddle cores comprising a honeycomb structure is relied on by many pickleball paddle manufacturers, and honeycomb structured cores provide a good balance of paddle strength and lower vibration generation (depending on the material of construction). However, in some pickleball paddles and/or for the playing styles of some players, the vibration damping provided by existing techniques is often found to be inadequate.

Therefore, there is a need to reduce the vibrations generated in pickleball paddles while not reducing the quality of performance of the paddle.

SUMMARY OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

According to some embodiments, a pickleball paddle, comprises a handle comprising one or more first structural materials, a striking blade comprising one or more second structural materials, and a transition section continuous with and located between the striking blade and the handle to form the pickleball paddle. The transition section comprises a throat that is covered by a structural material that connects the handle to the striking blade and comprises vibration absorbing component.

According to some embodiments, a pickleball paddle, comprises a handle, a striking blade, and a transition section, formed with one or more vibration dampening materials, indirectly connecting the striking blade to the handle, wherein a cross-section of at least a part of the transition section in the vertical direction is devoid of the handle and the striking blade.

In an example implementation, at least one of the one or more vibration dampening materials is different from any structural material in the handle and any structural material in the striking blade, the one or more vibration dampening materials comprises two different structural materials each forming a respective portion of the transition section, the striking blade and the handle are not present together in any cross section of the transition section in the vertical direction, the striking blade and the handle are not directly connected, at least a part of the transition section is thinner than the handle, the transition section is separately screwed with a part of the handle and a part of the striking blade, or the transition section comprises a connection mechanism at each end of the transition section and the connection mechanism at each end is attached to an a connection mechanism of the striking blade and an connection mechanism of the handle.

In an example implementation, the transition section comprises an embedded striking blade attachment part and an embedded handle attachment part, wherein an extension of the striking blade is inserted into the embedded striking blade attachment and an extension of the handle is inserted into the embedded handle attachment part. In some examples, orthogonally inserted bolts hold the extension of the striking blade inserted into the embedded striking blade attachment and/or the extension of the handle inserted into the embedded handle attachment part.

In an example implementation, the transition section is separately attached to the striking blade and the handle with one or more of permanent or semi-permanent connection using inserts, glue, heat molding, screws, or locking mechanisms.

According to some embodiments, a pickleball paddle, comprises a striking blade, a handle comprising an upper portion thinner than a bottom portion, and a transition section surrounding the upper portion and connected to the striking blade and the bottom portion of the handle. The upper portion is connected to the striking blade.

In an example implementation, the upper portion and the bottom portion are a unitary structure of the handle. The upper portion and the bottom portion have a same material composition, or the upper portion and the bottom portion have different material compositions.

In an example implementation, the upper portion is surrounded with a padding material.

According to some embodiments, a pickleball paddle comprises a striking blade, and a handle formed with a vibration dampening material, and an extension of the striking blade inserted into the handle.

In an example implementation, the handle is formed with a softer material than the striking blade, an upper portion of the handle comprises a second material for dampening vibrations. In some examples, the second material is not included in any other part of the handle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some features are shown by way of example, and not by limitation, in the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like numerals may reference similar elements.

FIG. 1A shows an example pickleball court, in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied.

FIG. 1B shows another view of a pickleball court.

FIGS. 2A and 2B show examples of conventional pickleball paddles.

FIG. 3 shows example pickleball paddle specifications according to the United States Pickleball Association.

FIG. 4A shows a pickleball paddle that includes a transition area between the striking blade and the handle of the pickleball paddle, with the transition area being configured to provide increased dwell time and reduced vibration, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4B shows a pickleball paddle that includes a transition area configured for dwell time enhancing and/or vibration reduction, and that includes two sub areas each constructed with different materials, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 shows a pickleball paddle that comprises a direct connection between the striking blade and the handle, and a transition area configured for dwell time enhancing and/or vibration reducing surrounding the direct connection, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 6 shows a pickleball paddle in which an extension of the striking blade extends a predetermined distance into the handle made of dwell time enhancing and/or vibration reducing materials, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 7 shows a pickleball paddle in which an extension of the striking blade extends through a transition area made of dwell time enhancing and/or vibration reducing materials and into a predetermined distance into the handle, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 8 shows an example assembly mechanism to assemble a pickleball paddle striking blade and handle to a transition area, according to some embodiments.

FIGS. 9A and 9B each show an example assembly mechanism to assemble a pickleball paddle striking blade and handle to a transition area, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 10 shows another example assembly mechanism to assemble a pickleball paddle striking blade and handle to a transition area, according to some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. The description and representation herein are the common means used by those experienced or skilled in the art to most effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the disclosure.

References in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

This disclosure relates to “Pickleball,” a game that has in recent years seen a massive increase in popularity among all age groups of players, including among senior citizens. Pickleball is a game that can be described as combining aspects of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It is played on a badminton-sized court, with paddles and a ball similar to a wiffle ball, but slightly smaller in size. The net used in pickleball is similar to a tennis net in some ways, but is lowered at the center.

Pickleball has recently become very popular and is played both indoors and outdoors, as either doubles or singles. The rules are relatively simple and the game is easy for beginners to learn. However, among skilled players, pickleball can develop into a quick, fast-paced, and competitive game.

FIG. 1A shows an example pickleball court 100 that includes a pickleball playing surface 130 and a pickleball net 132. The playing surface 130 comprises two left serve areas 102 and 108, two right serve areas 104 and 106, and two non-volley areas 110 and 112, with one of the left serve areas, one of the right serve areas, and one of the non-volley areas being on each side of the pickleball net 132. The net is 36 inches tall at the edges, and lowered to 34 inches in the middle. The areas 102-112 are defined by baselines 118 and 120 each 20 feet, sidelines 114 and 116 each 44 feet, center lines 122 and 124 each 15 feet, and non-volley lines 126 and 128 each the same size as a baseline. Each of the lines may be 2 inches wide. The term “court line” is used in this disclosure to refer to any sideline, baseline, centerline or non-volley line on the pickleball court. Non-volley areas 110 and 112, each extending 7 feet from the net, are also referred to as the “kitchen”.

The game of pickleball is played with a pickleball paddle 134 and pickleball ball 136. The ball 136 is typically made of plastic and has a 3-inch diameter. Similar to a wiffleball, the ball 136 has through holes throughout the surface. Different types (e.g., with different levels of hardness and different sizes of the through holes) may be used for playing the game on the various types of pickleball courts (e.g., indoor, outdoor, hard surface, soft surface etc.).

Pickleball can be played as singles or doubles, and is most commonly played as doubles. Each point begins with an underarm serve. The serve is performed diagonally beginning at the right-hand service square. A valid serve sends the ball from one left serve area to the other left serve area or from one right serve area to the other right serve area. The serve must clear the non-volley-zone. The serve must bounce before being hit by the receiver. The return of serve must also bounce before being hit (this is known as the 2 bounce rule). After the serve and the return of the serve, the ball can land anywhere on the opposite side of the playing surface 130. Volleys can only be performed outside of the non-volley zone. Volleys, that is, hitting the ball in the air without first letting it bounce, can only be made after the 2 bounce rule has been followed. However, if the ball is hit from within the kitchen, then it cannot land in the kitchen on the other side of the net.

A fault is any action that stops play due to a rule violation. A fault by the receiving team results in the servers earning a point. A fault by the serving team results in the server's loss of service and/or side out. A fault is committed when the serve touches any part of the non-volley zone (including the line) or the ball is hit out of bounds.

Pickleball games are typically played without a referee and are self-judged. Each player makes the line calls as to whether the ball is in or out when the ball contacts the playing surface on that player's side. The game continues to at least 11 points and requires a 2-point difference for a win. FIG. 1B shows another view of a pickleball court.

A conventional pickleball paddle is shown in FIG. 2A. In some example embodiments, as shown for example in FIG. 2A, a pickleball paddle 200 may comprise a striking blade 202 and a handle 204 connected to the striking blade. A grip 206 may wrap around a portion of the handle 204 and may comprise of a material that is more comfortable and/or provides better control of the paddle. The grip 206 is the portion of the handle that is intended to be held by the player during play (e.g., to strike and return a ball during play). The striking blade 202 comprises two striking surfaces 203, a core sandwiched between the striking surfaces, and, optionally, a frame (also referred to as an edge) 208 surrounding the striking surfaces 203. A striking surface 203 may also be referred to as a face of the striking blade 202 and is intended to be the portion of the striking blade 202 with which to strike the pickleball ball. During a pickleball game, based on the ball position and/or player position on the pickleball court, the player may use either the front face or the back face of the striking blade (e.g., corresponding to the front and back of the pickleball paddle, respectively) for any shot. The core of the striking blade may be constructed from materials such as, for example, hardened rubber, plastic, rubber/plastic compound, polymer, aluminum, honeycomb composite, etc., The striking surface 203 may comprise one or more layers of materials such as, for example, hardened rubber, plastic, rubber/plastic compound, fiberglass, carbon fiber, graphite, etc., that are conducive to striking/returning the pickleball ball and/or controlling the behavior of the ball. The striking surface 203 may be configured with a particular hardness (e.g., using the same or different material or material combination as in the rest of the striking surface) in an area referred to as “sweet spot” intended to provide the primary area of contact with the pickleball. The frame 208 may be constructed with a wood, plastic and/or hard rubber or compound thereof to encompass and provide support to the striking surface. The frame 208 may be integrated with or connected to the handle 204 at a connection area (also referred to as a connection part or connection point). The handle 204 may be the lower portion of a part/member (e.g., constructed of the same or different material(s) as the handle 204) that extends to the top of the striking blade (e.g., to the frame 208 at the top of the striking blade) or part way through the middle/core of the striking blade, and may be integrated/connected with the frame 208 in the connecting area (connecting part).

In a conventional pickleball paddle such as that shown in FIG. 2A, the entire paddle has the same center axis. That is, a center axis of the striking blade 202 and the center axis 212 of the handle 204 are parallel and are aligned with each other. Some pickleball paddles may include a butt cap 205 affixed to the bottom of the handle 204.

FIG. 2B shows two examples of commonly available pickleball paddles. The example pickleball paddle on the left side has a more elongated striking blade than the example paddle on the right side, providing a larger striking surface. Each example pickleball paddle in FIG. 2B, similar to that in FIG. 2A, has an edge that is of a concave shape on either side (left and right) of the handle and then curves upward before extending up in a straight line. In each example paddle shown in FIG. 2B the center axes (not shown in FIG. 2B) of the striking blade and the handle are the same.

FIG. 3 shows example pickleball paddle specifications and standards according to USA Pickleball—the United States Pickleball Association. The current USA Pickleball specifications require that the combined length and width of a pickleball paddle cannot exceed 24 inches. The illustrated example paddle specification shows a paddle shape that can provide for a total length (handle and striking blade) of 15.5″-17″ inches and a width of 7″-8.25″. The paddle length may not exceed 17 inches (43.18 cm). Not mandated by USA Pickleball, but illustrated in FIG. 3 for an example pickleball paddle, are a thickness of 0.5″-0.625″ of the striking blade, a thickness of 1.25″ at the bottom of the handle, and a length of 4″-5.5″ of the handle. The side profile view at the bottom of the figure illustrates the profile view from the long side of the example paddle, and the side profile view shown on the right illustrates the profile view from the top-side of the paddle.

In the specification, the handle is an extension of the paddle face and may not exceed 5 inches (12.7 cm) in length, and the handle must be an integral part of the paddle face. It should not have any separate components or extensions beyond the permitted length. The handle should have a smooth surface without any protrusions, attachments, or features that could cause injury to players or interfere with gameplay. The handle, like the rest of the paddle, must be constructed of approved materials. Common materials include wood, composite materials, or graphite.

Paddle construction plays a significant role in overall performance of a pickleball paddle and/or a player's experience on the court. As noted above, various materials are used to craft pickleball paddles. There are at least three main components to a pickleball paddle construction: the face, the core, and the handle. The face (also referred to as striking surface or face sheet) of a pickleball paddle is the hitting surface that comes into direct contact with the ball. Paddle faces may be made from a variety of materials, each offering different properties. The core (core layer) is the inner structure of the pickleball paddle that lies sandwiched between the two faces of the paddle. It provides the paddle with its structural integrity. In many examples, the core is the primary determinant of the paddle's structural integrity as other parts of the paddle such as face sheets, edge guard, and the handle are connected to the core. The core can be made from any of several construction materials, and each construction material may affect the paddle's weight, control, and/or power, etc., differently. The structure (structural design) of the core can also, in addition to the paddle's structural integrity, affect the paddle's characteristic such as, for example, weight, balance, control and/or power. An example core structure is the honeycomb pattern. The handle is the grip portion of the paddle, and it is where players hold the paddle during play. Handle construction may influence a player's grip comfort, maneuverability, and/or overall control. Paddles may be constructed with a grip size and handle length. A paddle may include an edge guard. An edge guard is a strip that may surround the perimeter of the paddle face. An edge guard may help protect the paddle from damage during rallies and/or scrapes on the court. A paddle may be edgeless. An edgeless paddle may provide a player with a bigger paddle face, and/or a larger sweet spot.

A honeycomb structure in the core may create a lightweight, sturdy base for the paddle. Paddle cores may vary by material and thickness. Thinner paddles (e.g., around 13 mm) may be designed for power and thicker paddles (e.g. around 16 mm) may be designed for control. U.S. Patent Publication No. 2021/0252356A1 illustrates several example paddle core designs and construction materials. For example, various materials could be used to create a honeycomb structure for a paddle core, which may affect the paddle's performance. Some example paddle core materials include wood, foam, Nomex®, aluminum, carbon fiber, polymer, polypropylene, and/or the like. In an example, wood core paddles may offer a solid, lively feel. Wood may be a relatively heavy material compared with other alternatives. Wooden designs may be limited to shorter and thinner paddles which may produce relatively high speed and power. There are many different types of foam cores, for example, ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), expanded polystyrene (EPS), or expanded polypropylene (EPP). Different types of foam may have different characteristics. Paddles with foam cores may offer a quicter playing experience. The foam may dampen impact by absorbing vibrations. Nomex® cores may be more durable compared with foam or honeycomb plastic. They may offer higher ball return power. Some players may lose some degree of control due to higher return speed of the ball off the paddle with Nomex and/or foam. Aluminum cores may be relatively lightweight and/or may offer good control. Carbon fiber may be used as a paddle core material. A carbon fiber core may offer good strength and stiffness. Polymer and/or polypropylene cores may offer a broad range of playing characteristics, from soft touch and control to power and spin. Other core structures (core construction technologies) including a combination of one or more of honeycomb plastic, carbon fiber, and/or foam, and other materials may be designed. In some examples, a paddle core may comprise of multiple layers.

In a pickleball paddle, the core may be sandwiched between two paddle face sheets. The face sheets may be constructed with composite materials that are built to withstand the repetitive striking of the ball on the paddle. There are varying materials used to create the face sheets. Carbon fiber faces may be lightweight and have a relatively high strength-to-weight ratio. Carbon fiber is a relatively durable material. Paddle faces (face sheets) may be built of fiberglass. Paddle faces may be built of graphite. Paddle faces may be built of Kevlar®. Kevlar is a relatively high-strength, lightweight material that is durable and resistant to abrasion. Alternatively, other materials may be used to build a paddle face sheet.

Carbon fiber is a relatively stiff, durable material that may offer a refined touch and feel due to the material absorbing a pickleball's energy at impact and more evenly distributing it across the face of the paddle. The result may be less deformation on contact, meaning greater control and/or shot precision. Carbon fiber face may be made of multiple layers to improve texture, strength, durability, vibration dampening, and/or other performance metrics. Fiberglass is a composite material that typically has less stiffness than carbon fiber, which may imply that paddles made with fiberglass may be more flexible on contact compared with paddles made with carbon fiber. Fiberglass may offer more rebound speed as the ball hits the paddle surface. The result may be a greater energy return to the ball resulting in a more powerful response. Fiberglass and/or carbon fiber face may be made of multiple layers to improve texture, strength, durability, vibration dampening, and/or other performance metrics.

Example carbon fiber surfaces include Carbon Friction Surface (CFS), Carbon Grip Surface (CGS), Carbon Touch Surface (CTS), and Carbon Abrasion Surface (CAS). Carbon Friction Surface (CFS) may be a textured surface that uses a longer-lasting, durable Carbon Flex 5 material. It may provide a performance with access to high levels of spin, optimal feel, and raw power. Carbon Grip Surface (CGS) may be a surface constructed from a durable, long-lasting Carbon Flex3 material for a textured surface that offers ball grip, feel and spin production. Carbon Touch Surface (CTS) may be a relatively smooth surface that reduces the amount of friction coming off the paddle allowing for enhanced feel and maximum control and touch.

Example fiber glass surface include Fiberglass Abrasion Surface and Carbon Abrasion Surface (CAS). An example Fiberglass Abrasion Surface may use a sand-blasted process that may create a fiberglass textured surface for enhanced spin. In an example, Carbon Abrasion Surface (CAS) may use a multi-step, abrasion sand-blasted process that creates a unique, textured surface offering increased spin. CAS paddles may feature a bottom layer (back layer) of fiberglass with a layer of carbon as or on the top layer (front layer).

Example pickleball paddle performance metrics (performance characteristics) include, dwell time, deflection, coefficient of restitution (COR), stiffness, and/or the like. These performance metrics may affect how balls deflect from the paddle, and may impact ball control, power, and pop. Other performance metrics may be considered. Some performance metrics may impact how fast the ball spins in response to paddle movement.

In an example, power refers to the court penetration a shot has, e.g. a steady speed that the ball travels over time. In an example, pop refers to a speed at which a ball comes off the paddle face. For example, pop is how much the ball naturally rebounds off the paddle face. For example, a paddle with low pop may have high power or court penetration if it were weighted enough and used with proper technique. The extra mass in the paddle may make hitting the ball harder and farther easier, as a player is moving a heavier object through the air when striking the ball.

In an example, dwell time refers to how long the ball stays on the paddle face after making contact. The longer a ball stays on the surface of a paddle, the greater the potential for generating spin. A trampoline type face may result in a longer dwell time and so might a textured surface. In an example, deflection may be how quickly the ball leaves the paddle face. Deflection refers to how far the face of a paddle moves (or deflects) when downward pressure is applied to the face surface. Thus, the degree of flex (e.g., the degree to which a portion of the paddle that is impacted by a ball bends) is a key aspect in controlling the dwell time.

In an example, the coefficient of restitution (COR) is a measurement of the ratio of the ball's final velocity to its initial velocity after being struck by the paddle. It is a measure of how bouncy the paddle is, or how efficiently energy is transferred between the ball and paddle during a collision. In an example, a stiffness may be a measure of the paddle resistance to deformation, and/or may be determined by a flow of impact energy. The average non-EVA paddle face may have a bending stiffness of about 900 lbs/in. A paddle may have a face and throat stiffness of 900-1100 lbs/in for high power.

The vibration generated in the paddle upon the striking blade hitting a ball may be substantial, and may affect shots. Over time and continued use of the paddle, such vibrations can also impact players hands. Therefore, paddle manufacturers attempt to dampen vibrations in the paddle. Paddle cores comprising a honeycomb structure are relied on by many pickleball paddle manufacturers, and honeycomb structured cores provide a good balance of paddle strength and lower vibration generation (depending on the material of construction). In some instances, various forms of edge guards or frames that include soft materials, and/or insertion of one or more layers of soft material (e.g., injected foam) between the striking zone of the paddle and the frame are employed to dampen (reduce) vibrations. Vibration dampening grips are used by some players. However, in some pickleball paddles and/or for the playing styles of some players, the vibration dampening provided by existing techniques is often found to be inadequate.

Some example embodiments of the present disclosure provide pickleball paddles that have a flexible throat region that is configured to improve dwell times of the paddle and to also improve vibration dampening. Example embodiments provide pickleball paddles with a transition section that connects that striking blade to the handle, where the transition section is configured for enhancing the degree of flex and to also improve vibration dampening,

FIG. 4A shows a pickleball paddle 400 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Paddle 400 includes a striking blade 402, a handle 404, and a transition section 406 located between the striking blade 402 and the handle 404. One end of the transition section 406 is attached (connected) to the striking blade 402, and the other end of the transition section 406 is attached to the handle 404. The transition section 406 is configured to provide a predetermined degree of flex to the paddle, so that upon being struck with a ball, paddles having a transition section according to embodiments will bend more (in the range of many micro-meters to many milli-meters) when compared to a paddle without a transition section. Such flex may be provided for ball strikes on the top (front) surface and for ball strikes on the bottom (back) surface of the striking blade 402. The transition section 406 is also configured to provide vibration dampening so that vibrations generated on the striking blade 402 due to ball strikes are either eliminated or reduced before they affect the player gripping the handle 404. The transition section 406 may comprise either the entire throat area of the pickleball paddle 400 or only a part of the throat area. The throat area may be considered as the area of the striking blade below the hardened core and the handle.

In example embodiments, the handle 404 may be constructed with any material used for handles and using any manner of handle construction described above. Similarly, the striking blade 402 may be constructed with any material used for striking blades and using any manner of striking blade construction described above. The transition area 406 is constructed using a material that provides flex and vibration dampening.

The transition area 406 may be constructed with somewhat flexible materials (e.g. rubber, plastic) to provide more power and control. The transition area 406 is configured to reduce paddle vibration and increase dwell time. The degree of flex and/or the degree of vibration dampening provided by the transition section may be controlled in different paddles by using different materials and/or material combinations. Alternatively, or additionally, the degree of flex and/or the degree of vibration dampening may also be controlled based on the length and/or width of the transition section 406.

In some embodiments, the transition section 406 is a single solid block of the transition block structural material, for example, of cylindrical shape. The width of the transition section 406 may be identical to the width of the top of the handle where the handle connects to the transition section. The transition section 406 may be of uniform width. In some embodiments, the transition section 406 may have an increasing width from the bottom to the top—this may provide a stronger connection to the striking blade and promote stability of the striking blade.

In some embodiments, the entire cylindrical block that constitutes the transition section 406, that is the entire volume of the transition section 406 is of the same structural material and of the same density. In some embodiments, the density may be varied in the vertical (e.g., axial) direction. For example, a part of the transition section that is closest to the top of the handle may be denser than the part that is closest to the bottom of the striking blade thereby providing more flex at the top of the transition section than at the bottom.

In some embodiments, the entire cylindrical block (e.g., the entire volume of the block) may not be of the same structural material.

In some embodiments, for example, extensions from the striking blade and/or the handle may extend into the volume of the transition section 406. In some embodiments, the transition section 406 may comprise two or more subsections separated in the vertical direction. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, however, the cross-section of at least a part of the transition area 406 in the vertical direction is a solid block of the transition section structural material. That is, for at least a predetermined length in the vertical direction of the transition section 406 its entire cross-section is constituted entirely by the one or more structural materials of the transition section 406. The predetermined length of exclusively transition section structural material may be referred to as the “solely transition” length of the transition section 406.

The solely transition length in the transition area cross-section separates the striking blade, or its extension, and the handle, or its extension, so that there is at least one length of area in the vertical direction of the paddle in which the handle or its extension and the striking blade or its extension do not overlap. Having a solely transition length of some magnitude greater than 0 ensures that the transition section can provide the full flex capability and/or vibration dampening capability provided by that length of the transition section structural material.

The dashed line shown horizontally across the transition section 406 in FIG. 4A indicates one example location for the solely transition length of transition section structural material.

FIG. 4B shows a pickleball paddle 410 with a transition section 416 that includes two subsections: a top transition sub-section 418 constructed from a first material and a bottom transition sub-section 420 constructed from a second material. The striking blade 412 and its connection to transition section 416 may be identical or similar to the striking blade 402 and its connection to transition section 406. The handle 414 and its connection to transition section 416 may be identical or similar to the handle 404 and its connection to transition section 406.

The first material and the width of the first sub-section at the connection to the striking blade 412 may be selected in accordance with a degree of flex that is desired of the first subsection and/or a degree of vibration dampening that is desired of the first sub-section 418. The relative properties of the first material and the second material, and the length of the sub-sections may be determinative of the degree of flex provided by each of the sub-sections.

Compared to pickleball paddle 400 that has a simpler three section design, pickleball paddle 410 has a more complex four section design because the transition area 416 is divided to two sub-areas each made with a different material than the other. Although more complex, the paddle 410 provides more flexibility to paddle designers to accommodate playing styles that require a range of paddle flex capabilities and vibration dampening capabilities.

In example embodiments, the throat area, or more particularly the transition section 406 in the throat area, is constructed using different materials (e.g., different materials or material compositions) than the handle and/or the striking blade because the throat area is configured to have more flexibility than the handle and striking blade. The transition section 406, or sub-sections thereof, may be constructed from one or a combination of threaded fiber throat or other vibration dampening materials, such as, for example, rubber, gel, foam, softer fibers/angled fibers. Fibers can be angled specific ways to increase/decrease flexibility. The dampening material(s) can be structured according to one of many shapes and sizes (e.g., same as handle, V shape, thicker or smaller depending on the preferences or requirements for weight, vibration and dwell time).

In some embodiments, the transition section 416 is attached to the striking blade and to the handle and frame with any one of a locking mechanism, glued, welded, screwed in, etc.

FIG. 5 shows a pickleball paddle 500 that comprises a striking blade 502, a handle 504, and a transition section 506, according to some embodiments of this disclosure. In contrast to the pickleball paddles 400 and 410, pickleball paddle 500 includes an extension 508 of the striking blade 502 or the handle 504 that goes through the transition section 506 and connects the handle 504 to the striking blade 502. Thus, in the pickleball paddle 500, the handle 504 and the striking blade 502 are directly connected by the thin extension 508, in addition to being also indirectly connected by the structural material of the transition section 506 that surrounds the extension 508. In an example, the extension 508 is an extension of the handle and the extension and the remainer of the handle are a unitary structure. In another example, the extension 508 is an extension of the striking blade and the extension and the remainer of the striking blade core are a unitary structure. In an example, the section 508 may comprise lattice structure (e.g. honeycomb) and/or may be an extension of the lattice structure of the striking blade. In an example, the lattice structure may be included in the striking blade 502, transition section 506, and handle 504. In an example, transition section 508 may be an extension of the striking blade, and/or the handle. The transition section 508 and/or material 510 may connect the handle to the striking blade.

In an example, the extension 508 may be constructed from the same material or materials as either one or both the handle 504 and the striking blade 502. In an example, the extension 508 may be more rigid and less flexible than the surrounding transition section 506 that may be made of a flex and/or vibration dampening material. In an example, the extension 508 may be less rigid and more flexible than the surrounding transition section 506 that may be made to control a flex and/or vibration of the striking blade. The transition section 506 may be constructed from a material (e.g. rubber, plastic, foam,) for support and/or dampening vibration. In an example embodiment, the extension that is a part of the handle and/or core, has dampening material fully encasing the extension. In some embodiments, the transition section 506 surrounding the extension 508 is formed with a material (e.g., a material for vibration dampening and/or enhanced flex) that is not used in the striking blade and the handle. The transition section 506, or more particularly the thickness and/or the length of the transition section, can be configured in accordance with a desired level of flex enhancement and/or vibration dampening. For example, in some embodiments, the transition section 506 may be thinner than the handle. For example, in some embodiments, the transition section 506 may be thinner than the handle. The thickness of the transition section 506 may depend on the type and structure of materials used in transition section 506.

FIG. 6 shows a pickleball paddle 600 that comprises a striking blade 602 and a handle 604, and an extension 608 of the striking blade 602 that is inserted substantially in the center of the handle 604, according to some embodiments. The extension 608 extends a predetermined distance into the handle and may not extend the entire way to the bottom of the handle 604.

The handle 604 may be made of a material (e.g. rubber or plastic) that reduces vibration, provides more dwell time, and/or provides more power. The extension is then 608 is inserted into the handle. The striking blade takes impact, and the handle absorbs vibration as it may be made of a relatively softer material with a higher deflection. The handle may slightly bend to increase power when the paddle hits the ball.

FIG. 7 shows a pickleball paddle 700 that comprises a striking blade 702, a handle 704, a transition section 706, and an extension 708 of the striking blade 702 that is inserted in the center of the transition section 706 and handle 704. The extension 708 extends a predetermined distance into the handle and may not extend the entire way to the bottom of the handle 704.

Different from the pickleball paddle 600, in the paddle 700, a transition section 706 is included in the throat area. The paddle extension 708 is inserted into the handle 704. Some of the vibrations originated on the striking blade 702 are transmitted down the extension 708 and may be absorbed by a soft/flexible mechanism in the handle. The construction material of the transition section 706 may be more flexible and/or may be softer than the construction material of the handle 704, and may enhance the dwell time in addition to dampening vibrations. The construction material of the transition section 706 may be different from any material used in the striking blade and the handle. The transition section 706, or more particularly the thickness and/or the length of the transition section, can be configured in accordance with a desired level of flex enhancement and/or vibration dampening. For example, in some embodiments, the transition section 706 may be thinner or thicker than the handle.

In the pickleball paddles shown in FIGS. 4-7, the connections between the transition section and the handle and between the transition section and the striking blade, may utilize a connection mechanism such as, permanent or semi-permanent connection using inserts, gluc, heat molding, screws, or other locking mechanisms.

FIG. 8 shows a pickleball paddle 800 comprising a striking blade 802, handle 804, a transition section 806, and an extension 808 of the handle 804, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The transition section 806 comprises an opening through the center (shown to the left of the transition section 806 in the figure). A screw 808′ or other extension connection mechanism attached to the striking blade 802, and/or the extension 808 from the top of the handle 804, is inserted through the opening of the transition section 806 so that the handle 804 and the striking blade 802 are directly connected with each other and additionally connected with the transition section 806 surrounding the extensions 808 and 808′. The direct connection is made by the 808 extension and the 808′ extension being in contact with each other. The indirect connection is via the transition section 806 that is sandwiched between the striking blade and the handle. For example, a screw extension 808′ can fit securely to the grooves on the internal wall of extension 808 and the transition section 806 material can be connected to the handle 804 and the striking blade 802 using glue or heat molding. In some embodiments, 808 would be screwed into 806 and/or could also be glued in. 806 may be glued to 808 and/or could be put on with a pressurized process to ensure tightness. The same process of glue and/or pressure could be used to connect 808 and 804. The materials for any of the pieces 808, 808′ could be rubber, metal, etc. thicknesses and diameters could vary to ensure the best fit and best results

In the pickleball paddle 800, the connection of extensions 808 and 808′ and the connections of the transition section 806 material to the striking blade and the handle, in combination provide a desired degree of flex and a desired degree of vibration dampening, while simultaneously provide the strength and rigidity to function as a part of the handle and/or throat of the paddle. In some embodiments, the transition section 806 is formed with a material (e.g., a material for vibration dampening and/or enhanced flex) that is not used in the striking blade and the handle.

FIG. 9A shows a pickleball paddle 900 that comprises a striking blade 902, a handle 904, and a transition section 906 configured to indirectly connect the striking blade 902 and the handle 904. The transition section 906 includes connection mechanisms 910 and 912, at the top end and the bottom end, respectively. Connection mechanism 910 is configured to securely connect to a corresponding connection mechanism 908 attached to the striking blade 902. Connection mechanism 912 is configured to securely connect to a corresponding connection mechanism 914 attached to the top of the handle 904. For example, connection mechanisms 908 and 912 may comprise knobs and connection/locking mechanisms 910 and 914 may comprise latches/incision so that the transition section can be attached to, or detached from, the striking blade and the handle with a turning/twisting motion.

The connectors 910, 912 and the corresponding connectors 908 and 914 on the striking blade and handle, respectively, may be formed with metal, plastic or other rigid material. The area of the transition section 906 that is between connectors 910 and 912 may be entirely a material that provides a desired degree of flex and a desired degree of vibration dampening, while simultaneously having the strength and rigidity to function as a part of the handle and/or throat of the paddle. In paddle 900, cross-sections of the transition section 906, except at the connectors, in the vertical direction are devoid of structural parts of the handle and the striking blade. In some embodiments, the transition section 906 is formed with a material (e.g., a material for vibration dampening and/or enhanced flex) that is not used in the striking blade and the handle.

FIG. 9B shows a pickleball paddle 920 that comprises a striking blade 922, a handle 924, and a transition section 926 configured to indirectly connect the striking blade 922 and the handle 924. The transition section 926 includes connection mechanisms 928 and 930, embedded at the top end and the bottom end, respectively. Connection mechanism 928 is configured so that a screw 936 or other connection mechanism attached to the striking blade 922 can be securely inserted into the connection mechanism 928. Connection mechanism 930 is configured so that a screw 934 or other connection mechanism attached to the handle 924 can be securely inserted into the connection mechanism 930.

Additionally, one or more screws 932 may be inserted horizontally into each of the connection mechanisms 928 and 930 to further secure the connections between 928 and 936, and 930 and 934. In some embodiments, a bottom portion of each screw 936 and 934 is threaded to be securely fit into grooves of the inner wall of each of 928 and 930. The upper portion of each of 928 and 930 may have horizontally oriented grooves to securely fit one or more screws 932 inserted orthogonally to 936 and 934.

The connectors 928, 930 and the corresponding connectors on the striking blade and handle may be formed with metal, plastic or other rigid material. The connectors 928 and 930 are configured so that they are separated by a predetermined distance within the transition section 926. The area of the transition section 926 that is between connectors 928 and 930 may be entirely a material that provides a desired degree of flex and a desired degree of vibration dampening, while simultaneously having the strength and rigidity to function as a part of the handle and/or throat of the paddle. In paddle 920, a cross-section of at least a part of the transition section 926 in the vertical direction is devoid of the handle and the striking blade. In some embodiments, the transition section 926 is formed with a material (e.g., a material for vibration dampening and/or enhanced flex) that is not used in the striking blade and the handle.

FIG. 10 shows a pickleball paddle 1000 comprising a striking blade 1002, a handle 1004, and a transition section 1006, according to some embodiments. The transition section includes connection mechanisms 1008 at the top, which is configured to be attached to a corresponding connector of the striking blade 1002. The transition section also includes a connection mechanism 1010 at the bottom, which is configured to be attached to a corresponding connector at the top of the handle 1004. According to an embodiment, the connectors on the striking blade and at the top of the handle are threaded so that the connectors 1008 and 1010, with grooved inner walls can be securely fitted to them. For example, the transition section 1006 and connectors 1008 and 1010 can be turned in a twist motion to tighten or loosen its connections to the striking blade and the handle. The transition section 1006 and/or connectors 1008 and 1010 may have a locking mechanism to lock them into place.

The connectors 1008, 1010 and the corresponding connectors on the striking blade and handle may be formed with metal, plastic or other rigid material. The area of the transition section 1006 that is between connectors 1008 and 1010 may be entirely a material that provides a desired degree of flex and a desired degree of vibration dampening, while simultaneously having the strength and rigidity to function as a part of the handle and/or throat of the paddle. In paddle 1000, cross-sections of the transition section 1006, except at the connectors, in the vertical direction are devoid of structural parts of the handle and the striking blade. In some embodiments, the transition section 1006 is formed with a material (e.g., a material for vibration dampening and/or enhanced flex) that is not used in the striking blade and the handle.

In some embodiments, the transition sections of paddles such as, for example, paddles 400, 410, 500, 600, 800, 900, 920 and 1000 that are configured for vibration dampening and/or enhanced flex includes at least one of a viscoelastic and/or an elastomeric material such as, for example, rubber, silicone, polyurethane, plastic polymers, synthetic fiber, etc. In some embodiments, the transition sections of respective paddles are configured to provide the predominant portion (e.g., more than half of) of the paddles' vibration dampening capability and/or flex capability. The flex capability of the transition sections of the respective paddles may be obtained by configuring the construction material, the width and the length of the transition sections to have a predetermined threshold (e.g., 70-95%) of the axial stiffness of the neighboring regions of the striking blade and the handle. The flex or bending upon contact with the ball may be a few micro-meters to a few milli-meters and may or may not be visible with naked eyes.

It should be noted that embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to particular shapes of pickleball paddles or particular construction materials of the frame, core and/or face sheets. Although various embodiments have been shown and described in detail, the claims are not limited to any particular embodiment or example.