Sporting good items including pre-printed graphics
US7364520B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 29, 2006 |
| Grant date | Apr 29, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 29, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA63B2209/10
- WIPO fieldFurniture, games
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A sporting good item or other product includes a “shrink-label” formed from a shrink-sleeve, shrink-wrap, or a stretch-sleeve adhered to or otherwise affixed to an outer surface of the item. The shrink-label includes pre-printed graphics and closely conforms to the item's outer surface, including any contours or tapered regions, so that the graphics may be displayed anywhere on the item. The shrink-label may optionally be applied to the item via an automated device. A clear coat or other protective layer may optionally be applied to an outer surface of the shrink-label to increase its durability and resistance to abrasion, which is particularly beneficial when the shrink-label is applied to an item intended for impact applications, such as a ball bat.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.