Michael Bernard Maynard

US Patent:

43570127, Nov 2, 1982

Filed:

Apr 30, 1981

Appl. No.:

6/259246

Inventors:

Michael B. Maynard - Canby OR

International Classification:

A63B 5100

US Classification:

273 73L

Abstract:

A sports racket such as a tennis racket has a head comprising a pair of concentric frames wherein an inner frame equipped with tensioned strings is supported resiliently within an outer frame by an inflated tube lying within opposing parallel channels extending respectively about the periphery of the inner frame and along the interior of the outer frame. Variation of the pressure of inflation of the tube controls the elasticity of the support of the inner frame, and deflation of the tube permits rapid removal and replacement of the inner frame.

US Patent:

47720212, Sep 20, 1988

Filed:

Jun 27, 1986

Appl. No.:

6/879819

Inventors:

Michael B. Maynard - Portland OR

International Classification:

A63B 5112

US Classification:

273 73C

Abstract:

An inflatable generally toroidal suspension tube for resiliently suspending and retaining a stringed inner frame insert within an outer frame of a racket head. Different parts of the tube are able to expand at different rates in response to increased inflation pressure, so as to control distortion of the outer frame of the racket head. The tube may be of a thermoplastic material and tubular restrictors surround the portions of the suspension tube which are intended in use to be located where the radius of curvature of the frame is greatest, in order to prevent distortion of those parts of the racket head frame.