CPC Definition - Subclass A63B

Last Updated Version: 2024.08
APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT (apparatus for passive exercising, massage A61H)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Gymnastic or exercising apparatus or equipment, of which examples are:

  • Horizontal or parallel bars, balance beams, tightropes or similar apparatus;
  • Apparatus for jumping e.g. pole-vaulting poles, spring-boards, trampolines, high-jump apparatus, skipping-ropes;
  • Mats for absorbing the shock of landing, e.g. in pole-vaulting;
  • Freely-suspended apparatus e.g. swinging rings, trapezes, climbing-ropes;
  • Climbing poles, frames or stages, clubs, hoop exercising apparatus;
  • Fitness devices, exercising apparatuses for ACTIVE exercising (A63B 21/00-A63B 24/00);
  • Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening muscles or joints against a counterforce, e.g. in weight training;
  • Apparatus for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, e.g. exercise bikes, treadmills;
  • Apparatus for conditioning particular parts of the body, e.g. particular muscle groups;
  • Electric or electronic controls for such apparatus.

Climbing or mountaineering apparatus, including apparatus for climbing trees or poles; Swimming aids or equipment, e.g. fins, flippers, goggles;

  • Electric or electronic controls for such apparatus.

Balls for ball games including:

  • Solid balls, e.g. golf balls, cricket balls, marbles;
  • Hollow non-inflatable balls, e.g. for squash rackets or tennis;
  • Hollow inflatable balls e.g. for football, rugby, American football;
  • Balls with special arrangements e.g. handles or eccentric centres of gravity (e.g. in bowling balls); and
  • Apparatus or methods for manufacturing balls or for handling or treating them, e.g. cleaning.

Rackets, bats or other striking implements for ball games, e.g. tennis rackets and similar, golf clubs, baseball bats, cricket bats, hockey sticks.

Accessories for golf; accessories for other ball games.

Targets or goals for ball games; tennis and similar nets and accessories therefor.

Implements for throwing, e.g. darts, javelins, spears, throwing-hammers, boomerangs, discus discs, quoits, juggling clubs.

Miscellaneous sporting games, e.g. miniature golf, juggling, curling, badminton, shuttlecock or like games, games using a hockey puck; projectiles for these games which do not fall into the above category of balls for ball games.

Training appliances for particular sports, e.g. for fencing, riding, skiing, rowing, punching-balls for boxing, golf swing trainers, artificial mountain slopes.

Other games or sports accessories, e.g. indicating or scoring devices, body protectors.

Relationships with other classification places
  • Some sporting subject matter is to be found in other subclasses of class A63.
  • Skates, skis and their bindings, roller skates, skate-boards and the design or layout of playing-courts, rinks, bowling-greens or water-skiing areas or the like are classified in A63C.
  • Bowling-alleys, bowling-games and equipment for bowls (but not the balls which are in A63B) and billiards or snooker are classified in A63D.
  • Merry-go-rounds, swings, rocking-horses, toy animals for riding, chutes, switchbacks, water roundabouts, helter-skelters or the like are classified in A63G.
  • Toys are in A63H.
  • Racing, riding sports and equipment and accessories therefore, including race-courses and race-tracks, are in A63K.

In relation to apparatus or methods for manufacturing balls, it should be borne in mind that working of plastics or substances in a plastic state is classified in class B29 and the chemical or compositional aspects of balls is in Section C, e.g. compositions for making golf balls are usually in subclass C08L.

  • Sporting subject matter can be found in other subclasses within CPC
  • Methods to process and manage data is found under subclass G06Q.
  • ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans relating to physical therapies or activities, e.g. physiotherapy, acupressure or exercising G16H 20/30
  • Teaching a sequence of movements in sports is found in G09B 19/0038.
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Apparatus for passive exercising or massage

A61H

Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Non-skid devices or attachments for footwear, e.g. crampons

A43C 15/00

Breathing masks or helmets for use at high altitudes

A62B 18/00

Safety belts for climbers

A62B 35/00

Picks

B25D 7/00

Ladders attached to fixed structures

E06C 9/04

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Protective equipment in the form of clothing or garments for sporting purposes

A41D 13/00

Uses of garments specially adapted for sport activities

A41D 2600/10

Soft caps; hoods with protection against blows

A42B 1/08

Helmets

A42B 3/00

Measuring muscular strength for diagnostic purposes

A61B 5/22

Video games

A63F 13/00

Manufacturing sport articles

B21K 17/00

Connecting valves to inflatable elastic bodies

B60C 29/00

Unicycles

B62K 1/00

Bicycles

B62K 3/00

Vessels or like floating structures for pleasure or sport

B63B 34/00

Life-saving in water

B63C 9/00

Breathing aids for swimming, e.g. snorkels

B63C 11/12

Training of parachutists

B64D 23/00

Devices for producing mechanical power from muscle energy

F03G 5/00

Weapons for projecting missiles

F41B

Sling weapons

F41B 3/00

Archers' finger tabs

F41B 5/1473

Traps for clay-pigeon targets

F41J 9/18

Stop watches

G04F

Controlling member being movable by hand, e.g. joystick

G05G 9/047

PDA - Personal Assistance Device

G06F 1/1626

Time or attendance registers

G07C

Signal device with lights

G08B 5/36

Simulators for training

G09B 9/00

Devices for exercising or strengthening of fingers or arms in teaching music

G09B 15/06

Teaching repetitive work cycles; sequence of movements

G09B 19/003

Displaying; advertising; signs; labels or name-plates; seals

G09F

ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans relating to physical therapies or activities, e.g. physiotherapy, acupressure or exercising

G16H 20/30

Special rules of classification

In A63B, indexing codes are required whenever the additional information is relevant; also, when only an indexing code applies.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Support element

an apparatus element for supporting a body part during exercising, e.g. a handle for the hand, a seat for the buttocks;

Handle

a support element for a single hand or arm (upper limb);

Pedal

a support element for a single foot or leg (lower limb);

Steps

support elements for lower limbs;

Band

a continuous support element for upper or lower limbs, used at undetermined, variable places during exercising;

Platform

a support element of an exercising apparatus, used for any body part, e.g. for both feet

Body planes

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Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "the body-symmetrical plane" and "midsagittal plane or median plane"
Horizontal bars
Definition statement

This place covers:

media1.png

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Bars for chinning, pull-ups

A63B 23/1218

Athletics hurdles

A63K 3/043

Parallel bars or similar apparatus
Definition statement

This place covers:

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WO2007001122

Balance beams
Definition statement

This place covers:

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US2006270523

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Rope dancing

A63B 7/08

Other apparatus for improving balance

A63B 26/003

Apparatus for jumping (mats for jumping A63B 6/00; for racing or riding sports, e.g. hurdles A63K)
Definition statement

This place covers:

media4.jpg

US4323234

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US2004235620

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US2011077133

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Mats for jumping

A63B 6/00

Bungee jumping

A63G 31/00

Planes mounted on springs for playing

A63G 31/14

Devices for racing or riding sports, e.g. hurdles

A63K

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Elastic means are coded under

A63B 21/02

General features for injury prevention in sport apparatuses

A63B 71/0054

Backstops, cages, enclosures or the like

A63B 71/022

Space saving arrangements, e.g. foldable or collapsible

A63B 2210/00

Apparatus for multiple users

A63B 2225/10

Floating apparatus

A63B 2225/605

Inflatable

A63B 2225/62

Mats or carpets for courts

A63C 19/04

Connections of rods or tubes

F16B 7/00

Trampolines
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Resilient force-resisters

A63B 21/02

Games similar to volleyball or basketball and played on trampolines or the like, e.g. "Spaceball" or "Aeroball"

A63B 2067/005

Protective housings covering the working parts of the apparatus

A63B 2071/009

Jumping devices used for lowering persons from buildings or the like

A62B 1/22

Special rules of classification

Elastic means, e.g. springs connecting the mat with the frame of a trampoline are classified both in A63B 5/11 and A63B 21/02 and subgroups.

Foot obstacles for skipping {, e.g. horizontally-rotating obstacles}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Walk exercisers without moving parts

A63B 23/0464

Hurdling

A63B 2244/088

Slalom gate poles, posts or marking sticks for sport fields

A63C 19/062

Athletics hurdles

A63K 3/043

Road signs or traffic signals in the form of a three-dimensional body, e.g. cones

E01F 9/654

Mats or the like for absorbing shocks for jumping, gymnastics or the like
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mats as illustrated.

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References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Small and/or yoga mats

A63B 21/4037

Mats for jogging on the spot

A63B 69/0035

Mats for golf practice

A63B 69/3661

Stuffed or fluid mattresses specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas

A47C 27/00

Pavings for sport grounds

E01C 13/00

Resiliently mounted floors

E04F 15/22

Freely-suspended gymnastic apparatus
Definition statement

This place covers:

media10.jpg

WO2008085058

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DE102009012127

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WO9108800

Climbing poles, frames, or stages {(climbing walls for mountaineering training A63B 69/0048; endless loop ladders A63B 22/04)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • Poles on a flexible support;
  • Rope networks;
  • Grids.

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WO2006079182

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Endless loop ladders

A63B 22/04

Climbing walls for mountaineering training

A63B 69/0048

Playgrounds

A63G 31/00

Playhouses, play-tents, big enough for playing inside

A63H 33/008

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Flat climbing nets

A63B 2009/002

Three-dimensional rope or cable networks

A63B 2009/004

With water spraying means

A63B 2009/008

Games or sport accessories for large room or outdoor sporting games

A63B 71/02

used in water

A63B 2225/60

inflatable

A63B 2225/62

Planes mounted on springs

A63G 31/14

Means for fastening cables

F16G 11/00

{Playground structures}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Amusement arrangements

A63G 31/00

{with water spraying means}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Amusement arrangements involving water

A63G 31/007

Clubs for gymnastics or the like {, e.g. for swinging exercises}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Items as shown in illustrations.

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References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Resistances to the movement of the club

A63B 21/00

Special means for attachment of arms or hands to exercising or sports equipment

A63B 21/4017

Substantially flexible shafts, hinged shafts

A63B 60/0081

Telescopic shaft

A63B 60/0085

Juggling games using sticks or discs

A63B 67/086

Normal golf clubs with directly attached weights for training

A63B 69/3638

{with a weight movable along the longitudinal axis of the club due to centrifugal forces}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Movable ballast means for adjusting the centre of mass of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like

A63B 60/04

with illuminating devices
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Powered illuminating means

A63B 2225/74

Exercising or sporting devices provided with means enabling use in the dark

A63B 2225/76

Exercising apparatus combining several parts such as ladders, rods, beams, slides
Definition statement

This place covers:

media16.jpg

US4278250

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Space saving

A63B 2210/00

Used in water

A63B 2225/60

Hoop exercising apparatus {(A63B 21/0608 takes precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Non-eccentric hoop exercisers (e.g. Hula hoops). The following image show a hoop 10 positioned to engage with a portion of the waist of person 90.

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References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Eccentric weights put into orbital motion by nutating movement of the user

A63B 21/0608

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Space saving

A63B 2210/00

Used in water

A63B 2225/60

Inflatable

A63B 2225/62

Spinning hoops, whirling amusement devices, orbiting toys

A63F 7/382

Rolling drums, turning somersaults with or without rolling seats

A63G 29/00

Hoop movement apparatuses not driven by the user, e.g. motor driven

A63G 31/00

Toy hoops, i.e. rings to be rolled by separate sticks

A63H 33/02

Freely-movable rolling hoops, e.g. gyrowheels {or spheres or cylinders, carrying the user inside (resisting devices overcoming gyroscopic forces of rotating bodies A63B 21/22; standing on it for equilibrium exercises A63B 26/003)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Resisting devices overcoming gyroscopic forces of rotating bodies

A63B 21/22

Standing on it for equilibrium exercises

A63B 26/003

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Spherical hulls or hulls in the shape of a vertical ring for use in water

B63B 1/047

Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices (electric or electronic controls therefor A63B 24/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

This main group covers the construction features of the apparatuses for ACTIVE exercising

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Electric or electronic control

A63B 24/00

Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

These further different aspects should be considered while classifying the apparatuses for active physical exercising (see also the flowchart annexed after A63B 24/00 and the Classification examples for A63B 22/00):

Use for cardio-vascular, agility or coordination

A63B 22/00

Use of the apparatus for strength training

A63B 23/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Means for physically limiting movements of body parts

A63B 69/0057

Position of the user during training

A63B 2208/00

Space saving, e.g. collapsible

A63B 2210/00

Sensors

A63B 2220/00

Multi station exercising machines

A63B 2225/105

Measuring muscular strength

A61B 5/22

Special rules of classification
{Exercising devices moving as a whole during exercise (bar bells or dumb bells A63B 21/072; on wheels A63B 22/20)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Weights moving upon horizontal plane

A63B 21/0618

Weight worn on user's body

A63B 21/065

Free weights, Dumbbells and Barbells

A63B 21/072

Resisting device worn on user's body

A63B 21/4025

Moving as a whole on wheel

A63B 22/20

{Exercising devices consisting of a pair of user interfaces connected by flexible elements, e.g. two handles connected by elastic bands (skipping ropes A63B 5/20; resilient elements A63B 21/02)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Skipping ropes

A63B 5/20

Using resilient force-resistors

A63B 21/02

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Buckles with strap length adjustment

A44B 11/2557

{Exercising devices not moving during use (benches A63B 21/4029; isometric exercising devices A63B 21/0023; step exercisers A63B 23/0458; walk exercisers A63B 23/0464)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media19.jpg US6287244

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Exercising device moving as a whole during use

A63B 21/0004

Isometric exercising devices

A63B 21/0023

Benches

A63B 21/4029

Step exercisers without moving parts

A63B 23/0458

Walk exercisers without moving parts

A63B 23/0464

Support for the head or the back

A47C 7/36

{Mechanical means for varying the resistance (A63B 21/06 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Variation of the resistance for weight resistance

A63B 21/06

Electronic variation of resistance

A63B 24/00

{for active exercising, the apparatus being also usable for passive exercising}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Apparatus for passive exercising

A61H 1/00

{comprising additional means assisting the user to overcome part of the resisting force, i.e. assisted-active exercising}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Isokinetic exercising

A63B 21/002

{using resistance provided by the user, e.g. exercising one body part against a resistance provided by another body part (A63B 21/068 takes precedence; isometric exercise A63B 21/0023)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Using user's body weight

A63B 21/068

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Isometric exercising

A63B 21/0023

{using resistance provided by plastic deformable materials, e.g. lead bars or kneadable masses (resilient force-resistors made of material having high internal friction A63B 21/028)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Elastic materials with internal friction

A63B 21/028

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Resilient force-resistors made of material having high internal friction

A63B 21/028

{using resistance provided by magnetic means (A63B 21/005 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Electromagnetic means

A63B 21/005

{using pulsed counterforce, e.g. vibrating resistance means (A61H 1/005 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Passive vibrating platform

A61H 1/005

isometric or isokinetic, i.e. substantial force variation without substantial muscle motion {or wherein the speed of the motion is independent of the force applied by the user}
Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Isometric exercise

a type of strength training in which the joint angle and muscle length do not change during contraction;

Isokinetic exercise

dynamic muscle activity performed at a constant angular velocity; torque and tension remain constant while muscles shorten or lengthen;

Isotonic exercise

active exercise without appreciable change in the force of muscular contraction, with shortening of the muscle.

using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Details of magnetic circuit

H02K 1/24

{using eddy currents induced in moved elements, e.g. by permanent magnets}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Eddy-current type dynamo-electric brakes

H02K 49/04

{using alternators or dynamos}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Producing mechanical power from muscles

F03G 5/00

Distribution network

H02J 3/008

using hydraulic or pneumatic force-resisters
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Hydraulic transmissions

A63B 21/158

{of the piston-cylinder type (using pneumatic piston-cylinder type force resistors A63B 21/0087)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

using pneumatic piston-cylinder type force resistors

A63B 21/0087

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Shock absorbers in general

F16F 9/00

{of the piston-cylinder type (using hydraulic piston-cylinder type force resistors A63B 21/0083)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

using hydraulic piston-cylinder type force resistors

A63B 21/0083

using frictional force-resisters {(electromagnetically-controlled brakes A63B 21/0056)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Electromagnetic controlled friction brakes

A63B 21/0056

{with surfaces rolling against each other without substantial slip}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media20.png

US2004248700

including rotating or oscillating elements {rubbing against fixed elements}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media21.png

US2011224046

including a rope {or other flexible element} moving relative to the surface of elements
Definition statement

This place covers:

media22.png

US4560160

using resilient force-resisters
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Support for anchoring non-resilient force resistors

A63B 21/16

{made of material having high internal friction, e.g. rubber, steel wool, intended to be compressed (resistance provided by plastic deformable materials A63B 21/00189)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

resistance provided by plastic deformable materials

A63B 21/00189

User-manipulated weights
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Benches for exercising

A63B 21/4029

{Eccentric weights put into orbital motion by nutating movement of the user}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Symmetric devices, e.g. hula hoops, put into orbital motion

A63B 19/00

{Arrangements for force transmissions}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Transmission means between the resistance means and the interface with the user.

Supports for anchoring force-resisters
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Freely suspended gymnastic apparatus

A63B 7/00

Supports for resilient resistors

A63B 21/04

Fastening household utensils to tables, walls or the like

A47G 29/087

{for anchoring on a chair (chairs with exercising means A47C 9/002)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Chairs with exercising means

A47C 9/002

Resisting devices with rotary bodies {(A63B 21/0608 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Eccentric weights put into orbital motion by the user

A63B 21/0608

Devices for two persons operating in opposition {or in cooperation}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Also two persons operating in co-operation

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Resistance force provided by the user himself

A63B 21/00185

{Arrangements for attaching the exercising apparatus to the user's body, e.g. belts, shoes or gloves specially adapted therefor (weights worn on the user's body A63B 21/065; exoskeletons in general B25J 9/0006, for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about A61H 3/00)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Exoskeletons in general

B25J 9/0006

{Exercise mats for personal use, with or without hand-grips or foot-grips, e.g. for Yoga or supine floor exercises (mats for absorbing shocks A63B 6/00)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Mats for absorbing shocks

A63B 6/00

Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements (force-resisting aspects A63B 21/00; {for particular parts of the body, e.g. to strengthen particular limbs or muscles A63B 23/00; } electric or electronic controls therefor A63B 24/00)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Use of the apparatus for strength training

A63B 23/00

Passive stretching or bending

A61H 1/02

Special rules of classification

The use of exercising apparatuses for ACTIVE physical training for cardio vascular, agility or coordination.

Within A63B 22/00 the main different aspects to be classified are:

which limbs (A63B 22/0002);movement-path direction (A63B 2022/0028);

combination of movements (A63B 2022/0033-A63B 2022/0043);Adjustability of path (A63B 22/0015); kind of path (A63B 22/0048-A63B 22/20).

These further different aspects should be considered while classifying the apparatuses for active physical exercising (see also the flowchart annexed after A63B 24/00 and the Classification examples for A63B 22/00):

Construction features of an exercise apparatus

A63B 21/00

Electric or electronic control

A63B 24/00

Means for physically limiting movements of body parts

A63B 69/0057

Sensors

A63B 2220/00

Position of the user during training

A63B 2208/00

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Examples in subject matters classify in this group

media24.pngmedia25.png

A63B 22/001 : arms and legs simultaneously ; A63B 22/0061 :support pivoting in a horizontal plane ; A63B 22/0664 : Elliptical movement ; A63B 2022/067 : crank and handles being on opposite sides

A63B 22/0012 : arms and legs being functionally independent. A63B 22/203 : using rollers in a horizontal plane ; A63B 22/0664 : Elliptical movement ; A63B 2022/0676 : crank and handles being on the same side

media26.png

media27.png

A63B 22/001 : arms and legs simultaneously ; A63B 22/0005 : with particular movement of the arms provided by handles. A63B 22/0664 : Elliptical movement ; A63B 2022/0682 : support elements being cantilevered

A63B 22/001 : arms and legs simultaneously ; A63B 22/0061 : support pivoting in a horizontal plane ; A63B 22/0664 : Elliptical movement ; A63B 2022/0688 : cranks being substantially within the horizontal moving range of the support elements

media28.png

media29.png

A63B 22/0056 : stepper in vertical plane If not in anti-phase: A63B 2022/0033 : simultaneously ; A63B 2022/0038 : independently

A63B 22/0058 : stepper, vertical plane is body-plane ; A63B 2022/0053 : parallelogram If one-way clutches ; A63B 21/157 : ratchet-wheel links ; A63B 2022/0038: foot moving independently

media30.png

media31.png

A63B 22/001 : arms and legs simultaneously ; A63B 22/0069 : pivoting around inclined axis ; A63B 2022/0071 : axis behind ; A63B 69/0022 : for skating ; A63B 69/182: cross-count

A63B 22/0069 : pivoting around inclined axis ; A63B 2022/0074 : axes in front not ; A63B 22/0066 because movement downward-outward

media32.png

media33.png

A63B 22/0076 : Rowing ; A63B 2022/0084 : handlebar with horizontal axis ; A63B 22/0089: a counterforce being provided to the seat

A63B 69/06 : for rowing ; A63B 2022/0082 : pivoting handlebars ; A63B 21/285 : 2 in cooperation ; A63B 2225/107: multi-station, same kind of resistance

media34.png

media35.png

A63B 22/0089 : resistance provided to seat ; A63B 22/001: for arms and legs

A63B 22/0694 : cycling movement, without integral seat, to be placed in front of a chair ; A63B 22/0605 : circular ; A63B 22/0023: inclination adjustable

media36.png

media37.png

A63B 22/20 : using rollers over the floor ; A63B 21/0004 : moving as a whole

A63B 22/203 : translating horizontally ; A63B 2022/0038 : foot supports moving independently ; A63B 22/0023: adjusting inclination

media38.png

media39.png

A63B 22/001 : Arms and legs simultaneously ; A63B 22/205 : translating substantially vertically ; A63B 2022/206: on a curved path

A63B 22/0012 : Arms and legs simultaneously, independently ; A63B 22/203 : translating horizontally ; A63B 2022/206 : on a curved path ; A63B 2022/0038 : feet moving independently ; A63B 2022/0035: hands moving independently

media40.png

{involving an exercising of arms (for strengthening the upper limbs A63B 23/12)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Exercising the strength of the upper limbs

A63B 23/12

Special rules of classification

Exercising of legs is not classified per se, only in combination with arms.

{by simultaneously exercising arms and legs, e.g. diagonally in anti-phase (A63B 22/0076 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Rowing machines

A63B 22/0076

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Diagonally

left arm with right leg

Anti-phase

when the right leg moves forward, the left legs moves rearward

{with an adjustable movement path of the support elements}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Adjusting the resistance

A63B 21/00058

{Particular aspects relating to the orientation of movement paths of the limbs relative to the body; Relative relationship between the movements of the limbs}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

for strength training

A63B 23/03516

{Details of the support elements or their connection to the exercising apparatus, e.g. adjustment of size or orientation (attachments of resisters or weights to the body of the user A63B 21/4001; using rollers, wheels, castors or gliding means to be moved over the floor or guide tracks A63B 22/20)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Attachment of resisters or weights to the user

A63B 21/4001

Using rollers, wheels, castors or gliding means to be moved over the floor or guide tracks

A63B 22/20

{with cantilevered support elements pivoting about an axis (A63B 22/0076 takes precedence)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Rowing machines

A63B 22/0076

{the pivoting movement being in a vertical plane, e.g. steppers with a horizontal axis (platforms for rocking motion about a horizontal axis A63B 22/16)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

The support elements are cantilevered and pivot about an axis, the axis being outside the vertical projection of the support elements.

media41.png

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Platforms for rocking motion about a horizontal axis

A63B 22/16

{the vertical plane being the frontal body-plane}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Movement on the frontal plane of the user,side-to side movement path, not forwards/backwards.

media42.png US2003008750

{the pivoting movement being in a horizontal plane, e.g. skating movement (platforms for reciprocating rotating motion about a vertical axis A63B 22/14)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media43.png

US2009239713

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Platforms for reciprocating rotating motion about a vertical axis

A63B 22/14

{about an axis inclined with respect to the horizontal plane, e.g. steppers with an inclined axis}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media44.png

{Rowing machines for conditioning the cardio-vascular system (seats moving during exercise A63B 22/0087; training appliances for rowing or sculling on boats A63B 69/06)}
Relationships with other classification places

Training appliances for rowing or sculling on boats A63B 69/06

Seats moving during exercise has to be classified in A63B 22/0087

{with a seat or torso support moving during the exercise, e.g. reformers (A63B 22/0076 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Pivoting movement to be classified in

A63B 22/0048

Special rules of classification

Translation movement not classified

{for training agility or co-ordination of movements}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Visualisation or indication relating to symmetrical exercise

A63B 2071/0652

{for active rehabilitation, e.g. slow motion devices}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Passive rehabilitation

A61H 1/00

{for avoiding blood stagnations, e.g. Deep Vein Thrombosis [DVT]}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Passive devices therefore

A61H 2209/00

with movable endless bands {, e.g. treadmills (other training appliances for running on the spot A63B 69/0028)}
Relationships with other classification places

Exercise equipments for training animals. A01K 15/027

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Belts for conveyors

B65G 15/30

Treadmills for producing mechanical power

F03G 5/025

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Shock absorbing means for treadmills

A63B 22/0207

Physical characteristics of the belt of a treadmill

A63B 22/0285

Treadmills with separate belt for each leg, e.g. dual deck

A63B 22/0292

Other training appliances for running on the spot

A63B 69/0028

For wheelchair users

A63B 2071/0018

Space saving

A63B 2210/50

Measuring or simulating ambient conditions (e.g. wind)

A63B 2220/70

Suspension devices for supporting the body

A61H 3/008

{with speed variation}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Controlled by user's position on the belt

A63B 2024/0093, A63B 2220/13

with movable {multiple} steps {, i.e. more than one step per limb, e.g. steps mounted on endless loops, endless ladders (steppers with cantilevered support elements pivoting about an axis A63B 22/0048)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

If not differently coded the steps or platforms reciprocate in anti-phase (when one leg moves forwards, the other leg moves rearwards).

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Steppers with cantilevered support elements pivoting about an axis

A63B 22/0048

with {support elements performing a} rotating cycling movement, {i.e. a closed path movement} (support stands for bicycles A63B 69/16; unicycles B62K 1/00)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Support stands for bicycles

A63B 69/16

Rotating cycling movement for PASSIVE exercising

A61H 1/0214

Unicycles

B62K 1/00

{performing a circular movement, e.g. ergometers}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media45.jpg

US2010248905

Relationships with other classification places

Bicycles

B62K 3/00

{performing an elliptic movement}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media46.jpg

WO2004014494

{without integral seat, e.g. portable mini ergometers being placed in front of a chair, on a table or on a bed}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media47.jpg

WO2005123197

Small portable devices which can be placed in front of a chair, on a table, on a door or on a bed.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Fastening household utensils to tables, walls or the like

A47G 29/087

Special rules of classification

The kind of movement has to be classified in A63B 22/0605 if circular, in A63B 22/0664 if generally elliptical or A63B 22/06 if the cycling movement has any other shape.

Platforms for reciprocating rotating motion about a vertical axis {, e.g. axis through the middle of the platform}
Definition statement

This place covers:

axis passing substantially in the middle of a platform or between the platforms

media48.jpg

US4313603

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

devices with cantilevered platform like the one below

media43.png

US2009239713

these devices do not have the axis passing through their middle portion or between the platforms: these devices have to be classified in A63B 22/0061

Devices with cantilevered platform

A63B 22/0061

Platforms for rocking motion about a horizontal axis {, e.g. axis through the middle of the platform}; Balancing drums; Balancing boards or the like {(exercising apparatus with cantilevered support elements pivoting about an axis A63B 22/0056; other exercising apparatus for improving balance A63B 26/003)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Axis being situated generally in the middle portion of the platforms

media50.jpg

GB2377651

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Other exercising apparatus for improving balance

A63B 26/003

Special rules of classification

Devices with cantilevered platform like the one below

media41.png

These devices with cantilevered platforms have the axis situated far from their middle portion: these devices have to be classified in A63B 22/0056

with elements, {i.e. platforms,} having a circulating, {nutating} or rotating movement, generated by oscillating movement of the user, {e.g. platforms wobbling on a centrally arranged spherical support} (hoop exercising apparatus A63B 19/00; {eccentric weights put into orbital motion by nutating movement of the user A63B 21/0608; pots rotating or rocking by moving the whole body A63G 23/00})
Definition statement

This place covers:

media52.jpg

US2004018924

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Hoop exercising apparatus

A63B 19/00

Eccentric weights put into orbital motion by nutating movement of the user

A63B 21/0608

Pots rotating or rocking by moving the whole body

A63G 23/00

using rollers, wheels, castors or the like, {e.g. gliding means,} to be moved over the floor or other surface, {e.g. guide tracks,} during exercising
Definition statement

This place covers:

media53.jpg

US2004198564

{for moving a support element in reciprocating translation, i.e. for sliding back and forth on a guide track}
Definition statement

This place covers:

All kind of devices for which the reciprocating movement cannot be classified in the subclasses A63B 22/203 or A63B 22/205.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Reciprocating translation on a curved path

A63B 2022/206

{in a horizontal plane}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media54.jpg

US5368533

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Means for supporting or limiting movement of body parts

A63B 69/0057

{in a substantially vertical plane, e.g. for exercising against gravity (exercising for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a user's body weight A63B 21/068; with adjustable inclination A63B 22/0023)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media55.jpg

US2008032869

media56.jpg

US5803880

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Exercising for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a user's body weight

A63B 21/068

With adjustable inclination of the main axis of the movement path

A63B 22/0023

Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body (A63B 22/00 takes precedence; force-resisting aspects A63B 21/00; electric or electronic controls therefor A63B 24/00; devices for exercising or strengthening of fingers, or arms in teaching operation of keyboards G09B 15/06)
Definition statement

This place covers:

The use of the Exercising apparatuses for active strength physical training.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Use of the apparatus for cardio-vascular, agility or coordination

A63B 22/00

Passive stretching or bending

A61H 1/02

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Isometric or Isokinetic exercises

A63B 21/002

Devices for exercising or strengthening of fingers, or arms in teaching operation of keyboards

G09B 15/06

Special rules of classification

These further different aspects should be considered while classifying the apparatuses for active physical exercising (see also the flowchart annexed after A63B 24/00 and the Classification examples for A63B 22/00).

Construction features of an exercising apparatus

A63B 21/00

Electric or electronic control

A63B 24/00

Means for physically limiting movements of body parts

A63B 69/0057

Sensors

A63B 2220/00

Position of the user during training

A63B 2208/00

media57.png

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Concentric exercise

exercise: the muscle shortens as it contracts, a concentric contraction of the biceps would cause the arm to bend at the elbow and hand to move from near to the leg, to close to the shoulder

Eccentric exercise

the muscle elongates while under tension due to an opposing force being greater than the force generated by the muscle. Rather than working to pull a joint in the direction of the muscle contraction, the muscle acts to decelerate the joint at the end of a movement

Isometric exercise

a type of strength training in which the joint angle and muscle length do not change during contraction

Isokinetic exercise

dynamic muscle activity performed at a constant angular velocity; torque and tension remain constant while muscles shorten or lengthen;

Isotonic exercise

active exercise without appreciable change in the force of muscular contraction, with shortening of the muscle.

{by torsion of the body part around its longitudinal axis}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Arm wrestling

A63B 23/129

{for stretching exercises}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Exercise devices for active stretching exercises.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Passive stretching devices

A61H 1/02

for the abdomen, the spinal column or the torso {muscles related to shoulders (e.g. chest muscles)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media58.jpg

US7744510

media59.jpg

US2009239675

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Torsion movements

A63B 2023/003

Position of the user during training

A63B 2208/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Exercising belts without indicating means

A63B 21/00

{Abdomen}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media60.jpg

US7878957

{moving torso with immobilized lower limbs}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media61.png

US2010216615

media62.jpg

US2005009678

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Attachment of lower limbs to exercising apparatus

A63B 21/4011

Leg restraining devices

A63B 69/0062

Drawing-out, the patient hanging upside down

A61H 1/0218

Feet or leg holding means

A61H 2201/1642

{moving lower limbs with immobilized torso}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media63.png

US5273508

media64.png

US5080352

media65.png

US5147267

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Attachment of upper limbs to exercising apparatus

A63B 21/4017

Means for physically limiting movements of body parts

A63B 69/0057

{moving torso and lower limbs}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media66.png

WO2008077117

media67.jpg

US5531658

{moving torso or lower limbs laterally, i.e. substantially in the frontal plane}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media68.png

FR2950537

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Movement perpendicular to the body-symmetrical plane for cardio training

A63B 2022/003

Cantilevered support platforms for cardio training

A63B 22/0048

{Muscles of the back, e.g. by an extension of the body against a resistance, reverse crunch}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media19.jpg

US6287244

media70.png

US2008090709

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Attachment of lower limbs to exercising apparatus

A63B 21/4011

Attachment of upper limbs to exercising apparatus

A63B 21/4017

Means for physically limiting movements of body parts

A63B 69/0057

Drawing-out, the patient hanging upside down

A61H1/02D2

Feet or leg holding means

A61H 2201/1642

{Spinal column (for the neck A63B 23/025)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media71.png

US5324247

media72.png

GB2222085

{with signalling or indicating means, e.g. of incorrect posture, for deep-breathing exercises}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media73.jpg

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Detecting, measuring or recording devices for testing the shape, pattern, size or movement of the body or parts thereof, for diagnostic purposes

A61B 5/103

for the head or the neck
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Passive stretching devices for the neck

A61H 1/0296

for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

for cardio-training

A63B 22/0002

for lower limbs {(training appliances for special sports A63B 69/00; for the purpose of producing mechanical power F03G 5/00)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Training appliances for special sports

A63B 69/00

for the purpose of producing mechanical power

F03G 5/00

for upper limbs {or related muscles, e.g. chest, upper back or shoulder muscles (bench press exercises A63B 21/078; for teaching music G09B 15/06)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Exercise devices for specifically training the strength of the upper limb or upper extremity which comprises the region extending from the deltoid region to the hand, including the arm, axilla and shoulder.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Horizontal bars for pull up exercising

A63B 1/00

Exercising upper limbs for teaching music

G09B 15/06

for improving respiratory function
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Means for creating vibrations in patient's airways

A61M 16/0006

for vaginal muscles {or other sphincter-type muscles}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Massage of the genitals

A61H 19/00

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Vaginal muscles or other sphincter-type muscles

called pubococcygeal muscles

Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; {Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances}
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • Electric or electronic controls within exercising apparatuses for active physical training.
  • Electric or electronic controls for A63B 21/00-A63B 23/00 are specifically classified in A63B 24/0087.
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Passive physical training

A61H 2201/50

Applications relating only to software and not dealing with mechanical features of the exercising apparatuses are classified in section G, for example:

Database structure, Audio information retrieval

G06F 16/60

Database structure, Video information retrieval

G06F 16/70

Data Management

G06Q 50/22

Recognition of body movements, e.g. for sport training

G06V 40/23

Applications for learning a movement

G09B 19/003

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Video games

A63F 13/00

Controlling member being movable by hand, e.g. joystick

G05G 9/047

Digital data processing

G06F

Image analysis

G06T 7/00

Image generation (2D)

G06T 11/00

Recognising movements or behaviour

G06V 40/20

Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins

G07F 7/00

Coin freed apparatus for sports or amusements

G07F 17/32

ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans (e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance) relating to physical therapies or activities (e.g. exercising)

G16H 20/30

Special rules of classification

These further different aspects should be considered while classifying the apparatuses for active physical exercising (see also the flowchart annexed after A63B 24/00 and the Classification examples for A63B 22/00):

Construction features of an exercising apparatus

A63B 21/00

Use of apparatus for cardio-vascular, agility or coordination

A63B 22/00

Use of the apparatus for strength training

A63B 23/00

Means for physically limiting movements of body parts

A63B 69/0057

Sensors

A63B 2220/00

Position of the user

A63B 2208/00

{Analysing the course of a movement or motion sequences during an exercise or trainings sequence, e.g. swing for golf or tennis}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Analysing movement for medical diagnosis

A61B 5/103

Teaching repetitive work cycles; Sequence of movements

G06B19/00E

Recognition of whole body movements, e.g. for sport training

G06V 40/23

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Differential GPS

G01S 5/145

Analysis of motion from image

G06T 7/20

{Tracking a path or terminating locations}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Tracking a path or terminating locations, including: position, e.g. in function of time, speed, acceleration.

{Exercising apparatus with reward systems}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Exercise devices with systems for rewarding the user and provide incentives to train.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Virtual environments for tracking the behaviour,

the purchases or the athletic activity of an user in order to customize services offered to the user:

Marketing, e.g. market research and analysis, surveying, promotions, advertising, buyer profiling, customer management, rewards; Price estimation and determination

G06Q 30/02

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Virtual races

A63B 24/0084

Means for conducting or scheduling competition, league, tournaments, rankings

A63B 71/0616

{Monitoring athletic performances, e.g. for determining the work of a user on an exercise apparatus, the completed jogging or cycling distance}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Monitoring performances for medical diagnosis

A61B 5/103

{Means for generating exercise programs or schemes, e.g. computerized virtual trainer, e.g. using expert databases}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Time management

G06Q 10/109

Task assignment

G06Q 10/1097

{Exercising apparatus with means for competitions, e.g. virtual races}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Exercise devices with means for competitions

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ranking

A63B 71/0616

Maps of tracks or courses

A63B 2071/0691

Wireless

A63B 2225/00 - A63B 2225/50

Interaction between a plurality of game devices

A63F 13/30

Arrangements for interaction with the human body

G06F 3/011

Digital computing special functions

G06F 17/00

Networking; advertising

G09F 23/00

Network security protocols

H04L 63/00

Protocols for real-time services in data packet switching networks

H04L 65/00

Protocols for telewriting; Protocols for networked simulations, virtual reality orgames

H04L 67/131

Hopping-sticks, e.g. pogo sticks {; Hopping apparatus with a single resilient support (devices for balloon jumping A63B 5/166)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices for balloon jumping

A63B 5/166

{for improving balance or equilibrium (balance beams A63B 4/00; apparatus for rope dancing A63B 7/08; balancing drums, balancing boards or the like A63B 22/16)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Apparatus for improving balance or equilibrium

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Balance beams

A63B 4/00

Apparatuses for rope dancing

A63B 7/08

Balancing drums, balancing boards or the like

A63B 22/16

Wobbling platforms

A63B 22/18

Training surfing, i.e. without a sail, skateboarding, snowboarding

A63B 69/0093

Apparatus for climbing poles, trees, or the like ({ropes A63B 29/02;} safety belts for climbers A62B 35/00)
Relationships with other classification places

A pump jack travelling on pole is to be classified here or in subgroups and, when relevant, also in B66F 1/02, B66F 19/00, and/or E04G 1/20.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Ropes

A63B 29/02

Safety belts for climbers

A62B 35/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices preventing persons from falling from ladders

E06C 7/08

Climbing irons permanently attached to fixed structures

E06C 9/04

Apparatus for mountaineering (helmets A42B 3/00; non-skid devices or attachments for footwear, e.g. crampons, A43C 15/00; breathing masks or helmets for use at high altitudes A62B 18/00; picks B25D 7/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mechanical inventive aspects of apparatuses for mountaineering.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Helmets

A42B 3/00

Non-skid devices or attachments for footwear, e.g. mountain climbing irons

A43C 15/00

Breathing masks or helmets for use at high altitudes

A62B 18/00

Picks

B25D 7/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices for lowering persons, including "descendeurs", rope brakes etc

A62B 1/06

Safety belts or body harnesses

A62B 35/00

Arrangements on buildings for connecting safety-lines

E04G 21/3261

Special rules of classification

Devices for lowering persons are classified in A62B 1/06. This includes descendeurs, rope brakes etc.

Mountain guy-ropes or accessories, e.g. avalanche ropes; Means for indicating the location of accidentally buried, e.g. snow-buried, persons
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Rope-lowering devices for mountaineering

A62B 1/06

Rope-lowering devices for mountaineering with brakes sliding on the rope

A62B 1/14

Safety belts for climbers

A62B 35/00

Hooks, e.g. snaphooks, therefor

F16B 45/00

Detecting hidden masses in general

G01V

Special rules of classification

Multiple entry classification in different classes is sometime used in borderline cases, i.e. documents are classified in the applicable groups and/or subgroups of two different sub-classes: A62B 1/00 and A63B 29/00.

For example, the document EP0752255 A1 is classified as follows (multiple entry classification in different classes): A62B 1/14, A62B 35/04, A63B 29/02.

{Means for indicating the location of accidentally buried, e.g. snow-buried, persons}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices allowing a buried person to escape or draw attention, e.g. avalanche airbags

A62B 33/00

Detecting hidden masses in general

G01V

Distress signalling devices

G08B 5/002

Special rules of classification

Mechanical means for helping someone survive an avalanche are also classified here.

{Climbing chocks}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Friction-grip releasable fastenings

F16B 2/00

Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose

F16B 13/00

Means for fastening cables or ropes to one another or to other objects; Caps or sleeves for fixing on cables or ropes

F16G 11/00

{Ropes specially adapted for mountaineering}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Ropes in general

D07B

Hand equipment for climbers
Definition statement

This place covers:

Hand equipment for climbers e.g. ice axes, chalk bags.

Relationships with other classification places

For chalk bags for climbing multiple classification applies: See also:

Sacks or packs carried on the body by means of a single strap around the waist

A45F 3/005

Holders or carriers for use while travelling or camping fastened to the belt

A45F 5/021

Sport bags

A45C 2003/007

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Apparatus for climbing poles, trees, or the like

A63B 27/00

Walking/Climbing sticks

A45B

Ski-sticks

A63C 11/22

Swimming aids (teaching swimming A63B 69/10 - A63B 69/14; life-saving in water {, e.g. life-buoys, life-belts,} B63C 9/00)
Relationships with other classification places

Body flotation supports, e.g. for children, are to be classified in B63C 9/00 and subgroups (see, e.g. B63C 9/08 and B63C 9/13), even if they do not fit the definition "life-saving".

In B63C 9/00 and subgroups, the sole purpose of the device is to provide enough flotation for people - under distress – to stay afloat. It is designed with the capacity to maintain a person afloat.

On the other hand, A63B 31/00 relates to swimming aids, i.e. devices which do not necessarily provide a flotation capacity sufficient to maintain a person afloat and are intended to help swimming. "Swimming" needs to be understood as an active movement by the user and not simply staying afloat.

There are inevitably overlaps, so double classification might be needed.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Apparatus for teaching swimming or training

A63B 69/10, A63B 69/12

Swimming boards and other teaching frames for swimming

A63B 69/14

Body flotation supports, e.g. for children

B63C 9/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Exercise apparatus with counterforce generated by moving the ambient water (hydraulic force resistors for exercising)

A63B 21/0084

Inflatable

A63B 2225/62

Body floating supports for relaxation in water

A61H 37/005

Toy boats; Floating toys; Other aquatic toy devices

A63H 23/00

Body-boards, i.e. surfboards specially adapted for use by users in prone position; Planing members attachable to, or held by body-surfers

B63B 32/20, B63B 32/22

Vessels or like floating structures for pleasure or sport

B63B 34/00

Rafts, i.e. free floating waterborne vessels, of shallow draft, with little or no freeboard, and having a platform or floor for supporting a user

B63B 35/58

Swim fins, flippers or other swimming aids held by, or attachable to, the hands, arms, feet or legs (A63B 31/18 takes precedence; worn as gloves A63B 31/02)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Swimming appliances with propulsive effect for hands and feet simultaneously

A63B 31/18

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Swimming aids worn as gloves

A63B 31/02

Swimming equipment attachable to the head, e.g. swim caps or goggles (diving masks B63C 11/12; breathing aids, e.g. snorkels, B63C 11/18)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Helmets for swimming and/or playing water polo, and any other kind of swimming equipment whose function is intrinsically connected to the practise of any kind of sport in water. It is also used for nose clips for swimming.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Diving masks

B63C 11/12

Air supply equipment for dwelling or working underwater, Breathing aids, e.g. snorkels

B63C 11/18

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Swimming boards and other teaching frames for swimming

A63B 69/14

Other body protectors for the head

A63B 71/10

Head protectors in the form of caps or hats

A42B 1/08

Hats or head coverings, soft caps or hoods, bathing caps not specifically conceived for sporting purposes

A42B 1/12

Helmets

A42B 3/00

Surgical instruments for use in the nose

A61B 17/24

Devices for correcting deformities of the nose and for enlarging the nostrils for breathing improvement

A61F 5/08

Nose clips for preventing snoring

A61F 5/56

Nose clips when part of respiratory or breathing apparatus

A62B 9/06

Nose filters

A62B 23/06

Shaping of plastics, swimming equipment

B29L 2031/5254

Divers' equipment

B63C 11/02

Diving masks ( comprising nose-clips

B63C 2011/125

{Swimming goggles}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Attachment of buckle to strap

A44B 11/006

Buckles with strap length adjustment

A44B 11/2557

Protective goggles

A61F 9/02

Straps; Buckles; Attachment of headbands for goggles

A61F 9/027

Diving masks

B63C 11/12

Straps, or the like for fastening diving masks; Accessories therefor, e.g. buckles

B63C 2011/128

Swimming framework with driving mechanisms operated by the swimmer or by a motor (other vessels or like floating structures for pleasure or sport B63B 32/00, B63B 34/00; divers' sleds or like craft B63C 11/46)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Divers' sleds or like craft

B63C 11/46

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Water sports boards; Accessories therefor

B63B 32/00

Vessels specially adapted for water sports or leisure, e.g. canoes or kayaks; Body-supporting devices specially adapted for water sports or leisure

B63B 34/00

Vessels or similar floating structures specially adapted for specific purposes and not otherwise provided for

B63B 35/00

Special rules of classification

References B63B 32/00 and B63B 34/00 are non-limiting in the main group A63B 35/00. CPC will be corrected once this inconsistency is resolved in IPC.

Solid balls; {Rigid hollow balls; } Marbles (heavy throwing balls A63B 65/06)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Heavy balls for throwing, i.e. medicine balls, shots, weights or stones for putting

A63B 65/06

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Billiards

A63B 2243/002

Shaping of plastics, golf balls

B29L 2031/546

Special rules of classification

Billiard, pool and snooker balls are classified in A63B 37/00 and A63B 2243/002.

{Golf balls}
Relationships with other classification places

The subgroups are arranged in a tree structure, of which the following are the main branches:

  • general subgroup for golf balls (note: to be allocated as "Additional Information" when the golf ball is not the invention but nevertheless is mentioned in the application);
  • dimples and protrusions;
  • non-structural external layer: coatings and markings, exclusively;
  • three structural layers: cover (exclusively), intermediate layer (all the intermediate layers: Inner Cover, Mantel, Outer Core) and core (exclusively), respectively;
  • ball as a whole.

The following "branches" apply independently to each of the different structural layers (cover, intermediate layer, core) and are repeated for each of the structural layers:

  • Materials and Chemistry
  • Coefficient of restitution
  • Hardness
  • Hardness Gradient
  • Thickness / Diameter
  • Deflection or Compression
  • Density / Gravity
  • Melt flow rate
  • Mass, Weight (only common to the core and to the ball as a whole)
  • Initial Velocity (only common to the core and to the ball as a whole)
  • Flexural Modulus

(Note that some properties are not repeated for each structural layer and have therefore not been mentioned here).

It will be often necessary to classify the chemistry aspects outside of the scope of A63B. Thus, multiple classification is commonly used between classes and sections. Some guidance can be derived from the following examples:

  • C08L 23/0876: Neutralised polymers, i.e. ionomers
  • C08L 75/00: Compositions of polyureas or polyurtehanes
  • C08L 77/00: Compositions of polyamides obtained by reactions forming a carboxylic amide link in the main chain
  • C08K 5/00: Use of organic ingredients
  • C08K 5/098: Metal salts of carboxylic acids
  • C08G 18/00: Polymeric products of isocyanates or isothiocyanates
  • C09D 1/00: Coating compositions
  • B29C 35/00: Heating, cooling or curing, e.g. crosslinking, vulcanising
  • B29C 45/14819: Injection moulding by completely encapsulating inserts (typical for golf balls)
  • B29C 59/00: Surface shaping, e.g. embossing

"Practice/training golf balls" are also allocated to subgroups A63B 69/3655 and/or A63B 69/3688.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Golf balls for practising drives

A63B 69/3655

Golf balls for practising putts

A63B 69/3688

Methods for moulding

B29

Chemical aspects

C08

Special rules of classification

The best approach for classifying golf ball documents:

Look through the abstract;

Look at the drawings;

Look through the claims;

Look through the description:

  • Pay attention to the first paragraph, "Summary of the invention";
  • In the "Detailed description of this invention" pay attention wherever it is written "...of this invention" (and similar);
  • Depending on the main invention, some information from the description can be considered significant or not, that is to say, to be classified as "Invention Information" or "Additional Information". For classifying "Additional Information" pay attention to the different embodiments, examples and tables;
  • Sometimes the examples compare the invention with another golf ball, which is usually not to be classified.
  • Common general knowledge present in the Description should not be classified.

The physical properties of subassemblies encompassing simultaneously different layers of a golf ball are to be classified as properties of the golf ball as a whole; e.g. the "compression of a golf ball subassembly consisting of the center and the intermediate layer has a compression of 50 or less" is classified as A63B 37/0087.

"Volume" and/or "surface" of the core or a layer of a golf ball must be classified with the equivalent physical property of diameter or thickness of the corresponding layer.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

The issue of the different layers of the ball:

  • Non-structural: Coating/Marking.
  • Structural: Cover, Intermediate layer, Core.

Golf balls usually have only ONE cover and only ONE core. The rest of the structural layers are simply intermediate layers.

  • Irrespective of the wording and leaving aside the Coating/Markings (if any):
  • Cover - the outermost mechanical layer
  • Core - the innermost part of the ball
  • Intermediate layer - every layer therebetween
  • Therefore:
  • "Inner cover" - intermediate layer (not Cover)
  • "Outer core" - intermediate layer (not Core)
  • "Core thickness": it must necessarily refer to the "outer core" (and, therefore, an Intermediate layer), as a "core" is defined by its diameter or its radius, but not by its thickness: this feature is, therefore, to be classified in A63B 37/0045
  • "Mantel": it can refer to the cover OR the coat OR the intermediate layer: Therefore, it has to be interpreted correctly in order to know where to classify the information relating to such a "mantel"
  • This is graphically exemplified as follows:

media75.png

Other terms:

  • "Thread wound core": only used for thread wound cores with nothing inside. It is, therefore, not to be used when a thread layer is wound around a core that is not thread.
  • In long patent descriptions, it is often mentioned that the invention may be made from one up to three or more layers.

However, unless every single layer explicitly appears in claims, it is not to be classified in A63B 37/0073 - A63B 37/0076 every time.

For example:

  • If the invention is mainly manufactured with 1 layer (core) but it can also be used in golf balls with more layers (but this information does not appear in the claims), we classify as follows:

Invention information: A63B 37/0073;

Additional information: A63B 37/0074, A63B 37/0075, A63B 37/0076.

If the invention describes in the claims every possible case (one, two, three-layer golf balls, etc.), classification is as follows:

Invention information: A63B 37/0073, A63B 37/0074, A63B 37/0075, etc.

  • "Multi-piece balls": Can be used both for three-piece balls and balls having two or more intermediate layers.
  • Solid core ≠ Rigid core (A63B 37/0054) unless they specify that it is made of metal.
  • Translucent cover A63B 37/0024
  • A63B 37/0039: to be allocated when the chemistry of the intermediate layer is neither an Ionomer, nor Polyurethane, nor Polybutadien, or, at least, a very unusual one amongst the previous one (so, mixed-up with other stuff, etc.)
  • Initial Velocity concerning the Cover: allocate A63B 37/0084.
  • "Weight; Mass": Used for, e.g. specific weight, but not for chemical weight ratios.
  • A63B 37/0067 and A63B 37/0083: Weight, just specific weight, not for ratio weight.
  • MFR = Melt Flow Rate = MFI= Melt Flow Index: A63B 37/0036 or A63B 37/0048 (or both, if the layer is not specified).
  • COR = Coefficient of Restitution -> A63B 37/003, A63B 37/0041, A63B 37/0061 or A63B 37/0078.
  • Flexural Modulus [Mpa=factor x psi] is different from Young modulus=Tensile modulus=Elastic modulus, Ionomer modulus, Stiffness modulus, Flexural rigidity.
  • "Hardness Gradient" is most likely to be found with cores. Example: The core has a JIS-C hardness at its surface of at least 70 and a JIS-C hardness at its center that is at least 10 units lower than the hardness at the core surface.
  • "Hardness distribution amongst the different ball layers" (A63B 37/0092) is to be allocated when the hardness gradient does not apply only to a specific single layer amongst several, but to the whole ball.
  • Rather common parameters such as "diameter of dimple", "spin rate", "rebound resilience", "coefficient of drag", etc. are not to be classified unless they are described in the claims, the abstract or the description accurately and in a quantitative manner, or unless they are mentioned throughout the document continuously (even if not quantitatively)... except with the "scuff resistance", which is usually valued with qualitative (not quantitative) terms (i.e. "good", "bad", "better", etc.) and is to be classified even without specific values being given therefor.
  • A63B 45/00: Manufacture of golf balls. It is written in claims or abstract; or it is fully described in description.
  • Material manufacturing process" for cover, internal layer or core: A63B 45/00 and the corresponding A63B 37/0023, A63B 37/0038, A63B 37/005 (or A63B 37/0024, A63B 37/0039, A63B 37/0051).
  • "Moulding/molding compression": we do not have any specific subgroup for this: it is, however, a different concept from "deflection or compression" (A63B 37/0034, A63B 37/0046, A63B 37/0065, A63B 37/0087). These features are, therefore, to be understood as "Method for Manufacturing", for which the correct subgroup is A63B 45/00
  • A63B 45/02: Methods or apparatus for marking golf balls. It usually goes with A63B 37/0022 (either as "Invention" or "Additional" information) if they describe the mark or it appears in the drawings.
  • A circular dimple is something standard -> Do not classify this feature in any of A63B 37/0007 - A63B 37/0011.
  • Interpret A63B 37/002 (i.e. "Specified dimple diameter") as" Specified dimple diameter, or length of their main axis" instead. Sometimes, dimples may have various shapes like polygonal or elliptical: in such cases perimeters, lengths, widths, major and minor axis lengths are given.
  • Patents with specific drawings of one or several dimples (cross section) -> A63B 37/0012.
  • If some parameters (depth, diameter) appear in drawings, accurate figures are likely to be found in the text (see A63B 37/0019, A63B 37/002):
  • Drawings with various dimples with and without sub-dimples -> Classify simultaneously as A63B 37/0012 and A63B 37/0015;
  • When the shape of the dimple is not clear, not important in that document, etc. -> Classify as "Additional Information" A63B 37/0012.

"Volume Ratio": Classified for the time being in A63B 37/0016 and A63B 37/0017.

Dimple coverage (%) = Occupation ratio -> A63B 37/0021.

Compression (A63B 37/0034, A63B 37/0046, A63B 37/0065, A63B 37/0087): it can be "PGA compression", "Atti compression", "Riehle compression" or "Load/Deflection tests.

PGA Compression = Atti Compression: A piston whose travel path is fixed compresses the ball against a spring and the spring deflection is then measured.

Riehle Compression: It measures the deformation of ball under a fixed load of 90.9 kg.

Load/Deflection tests: Same as "Riehle Compression" but with a plurality of possible loads.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used with the meaning indicated:

Outer Cover

used for Cover

Shell

an Intermediate layer

Inner Core, Center, Centre

used for Core

{Protrusions}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media76.jpg

{Arrangement or layout of dimples}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Features on the outer surface as shown in the following drawing:

media77.jpg

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Computer-aided design

G06F 30/00

Finite element generation, e.g. wire-frame surface description, tesselation

G06T 17/20

{Non-circular dimples}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media78.jpg

{Elliptical}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media79.jpg

{Polygonal}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media80.jpg

{Dimple profile, i.e. cross-sectional view}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media81.jpg

{Coatings, e.g. paint films; Markings}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Varnish, paint etc. any thin layer coating the cover. Therefore, this encompasses only the coating and/or markings.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Methods for marking

A63B 45/02

{Covers}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Used only for the Cover.

{Materials other than ionomers or polyurethane}
Definition statement

This place covers:

"Special materials", meaning any materials other than those which are normally used for covers or cores. (Poly)urethanes and ionomers are all normally used in covers, thus not "special", unless it is referred to a very specific unusual type of ionomer or polyurethane.

Any material which makes the cover be translucent is considered "special" and, thus, classified here.

{characterised by the material}
Definition statement

This place covers:

"Special materials" means any materials other than those which are normally used for covers or cores. (Poly)butadiene, (Poly)urethanes, ionomers are all normally used, thus not "special", unless the material is a very specific and unusual type of (poly)butadiene, (poly)urethane or ionomer.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Apparatus or methods for marking balls

A63B 45/02

{Cores}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Used only for the Core.

{Physical properties}
Special rules of classification

Every subgroup of A63B 37/0077 defining a property for which there is no specific subgroup defining the distribution of such property amongst the several layers of a golf ball is also used for classifying such distribution.

The physical properties of subassemblies encompassing simultaneously different layers of a golf ball are to be classified as properties of the golf ball as a whole; e.g. the "compression of a golf ball subassembly consisting of the centre and the intermediate layer has a compression of 50 or less" is classified as A63B 37/0087.

{Layers interlocking by means of protrusions or inserts, lattices or the like}
Definition statement

This place covers:

The following images that show balls with layers that are interlocked by protrusions, inserts or lattices.

media175.png

media176.png

media177.png

Special cores {(balls with finger holes A63B 37/0001, golf ball cores A63B 37/005)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Balls with finger holes, e.g. for bowling

A63B 37/0001

Cores of golf balls

A63B 37/005

with eccentric centre of gravity
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Balls with finger holes, e.g. for bowling

A63B 37/0001

Golf balls

A63B 37/0003

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

(non-solid) balls with an eccentric centre of gravity; with mechanism for changing the centre of gravity

A63B 43/04

Special coverings {, i.e. outer layer material (balls with finger holes A63B 37/0001, golf ball covers A63B 37/0023)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Balls with finger holes, e.g. for bowling

A63B 37/0001

Golf ball covers

A63B 37/0023

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Golf balls

A63B 37/0003

Special surfaces {(A63B 37/0004 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Surface depressions or protrusions on golf balls

A63B 37/0004

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Golf ball covers

A63B 37/0023

Stitchings

A63B 2037/125

Hollow non-inflatable balls {, i.e. having no valves (rigid balls A63B 37/00)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Rigid hollow balls

A63B 37/00

Special rules of classification

Hollow rigid balls are classified in A63B 37/0098

{using containers with pressurising means for balls not in use}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Packages under vacuum or pressure, or special atmospheres

B65D 81/20

Special coverings
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Computer-aided design

G06F 30/00

Finite element generation, e.g. wire-frame surface description, tesselation

G06T 17/20

Hollow inflatable balls
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Inflatable chairs

A47C 4/54

Connecting valves to inflatable elastic bodies

B60C 29/00

Valves, e.g. self-closing valves

F16K

Ball covers; Closures therefor
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Computer-aided design

G06F 30/00

Finite element generation, e.g. wire-frame surface description or tesselation

G06T 17/20

Tools or devices for blowing up or closing balls {(for pricking-balls A63B 39/04)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Tools for blowing up pricking-balls

A63B 39/04

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Air pumps per se for blowing up balls

F04

Muscle-powered pumps

F04B 33/00

Balls with special arrangements
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Feathered missiles with special functions

A63B 67/197

Playing balls or other moving playing bodies, e.g. pinballs or discs used instead of balls

A63F 7/40

Special rules of classification

Heavy throwing balls, medicine balls and the like are classified in A63B 65/06

{with special configuration, e.g. non-spherical (discs for throwing A63B 65/10)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Discs for throwing

A63B 65/10

Special rules of classification

American Footballs are to be classified always in A63B 43/002 and A63B 2243/007. For American Footballs lacing system, classify in A63B 41/085.

{with adhesive type surfaces, e.g. hook-and-loop type fastener}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

(Sports equipment in general) with adhesive type surfaces, e.g. hook-and-loop fasteners

A63B 2209/10

{Arrangements on balls for connecting lines or cords}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Balls tethered to a line or cord

A63B 69/0079

Tethered playing balls or other tethered playing bodies

A63F 2007/4087

{with means for improving visibility, e.g. special markings or colours (illuminating or reflecting means A63B 43/06)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Means for improving visibility. Special markings or colours. Also special markings or indices for training purposes.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Balls with illuminating or reflecting means

A63B 43/06

with a handle
Special rules of classification

Hopping balls for sitting and bouncing on: A63B 25/08

with an eccentric centre of gravity; with mechanism for changing the centre of gravity (solid balls A63B 37/10)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Cores with an eccentric centre of gravity for solid balls

A63B 37/10

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Motorised rolling toys

A63H 33/005

with illuminating devices {; with reflective surfaces}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Other means for approving visibility

A63B 43/008

Exercising or sporting devices provided with means enabling use in the dark

A63B 2225/76, A63B 2225/74

Apparatus or methods for manufacturing balls (working of plastics or substances in a plastic state B29)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Working of plastics or substances in a plastic state

B29

Producing hollow plastic balls

B29D 22/00

Producing plain plastic balls

B29D 99/0042

Marking of balls
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Identification means which can be read by electronic detection means

A63B 2225/15

Printing apparatus

B41F 17/34

Methods of printing

B41M

Devices for handling or treating balls {, e.g. for holding or carrying balls}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Arrangements for maintaining ball pressure

A63B 39/02

Fitted on golf bags

A63B 55/20

Holders for golf balls

A63B 57/20

Ball holders combined with racket presses

A63B 60/44

With racket covers or cases

A63B 60/58

Devices for handling or treating for games with feathered missiles, e.g. badminton

A63B 67/18

Sport bags

A45C 2003/007

Machines or devices designed for grinding spherical surfaces or parts of spherical surfaces on work

B24B 11/00

Special rules of classification

Ball holders combined with racket presses are classified both in A63B 47/00 and in A63B 60/44.

{Devices for dispensing balls, e.g. from a reservoir (automatic teeing devices A63B 57/0006; devices for projecting balls A63B 69/40)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Automatic teeing devices

A63B 57/0006

Devices for projecting balls

A63B 69/40

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Bats or rackets having ball-dispensing means

A63B 60/38

Devices for alarm or indication, e.g. when empty

G07F 9/02

{Devices for measuring or verifying ball characteristics}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Measuring or testing in general

G01

Mechanical measuring of sport

G01B 5/0023

for picking-up {or collecting}
Definition statement

This place covers:

The following image shows a device for picking-up or collecting balls.

media157.png

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Analogous devices for inserting a golf tee with a ball on it

A63B 57/0037

Bats or rackets having ball-dispensing or storing means

A63B 60/38

Targets or goals with ball-returning means

A63B 2063/001

{for picking-up automatically, e.g. by apparatus moving over the playing surface}
Definition statement

This place covers:

The following image shows an apparatus for automatic pick-up by moving over a surface.

media83.jpg

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Apparatus for gathering together crops spread on the soil, e.g. apples, beets, nuts, potatoes

A01D 51/00

{Autonomous machines which find their own way around the playing surface}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Robot-like machines running around collecting balls, able to respond autonomously to obstacles and the like. Not intended to be used for radio-controlled vehicles operated remotely by a person.

{Installations continuously collecting balls from the playing areas, e.g. by gravity, with conveyor belts}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Golf cups with ejector means

A63B 57/405

Targets or goals with ball returning means

A63B 2063/001

for cleaning balls (apparatus for cleaning balls, as accessories for bowling- or table alleys A63D 5/10)
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Apparatus for cleaning balls, as accessories for bowling- or table alleys

A63D 5/10

Stringed rackets, e.g. for tennis (strings therefor A63B 51/00)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Strings for stringed rackets

A63B 51/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Resonance frequency related characteristics

A63B 60/002

Shaping of plastics for rackets

B29L 2031/5245

Special rules of classification

Aspects of inventions which relate to various types of sports bats, of which rackets are just one example, are to be classified in A63B 60/00, A63B 2102/00 and subgroups, e.g. shock damping means equally applicable to rackets, golf clubs and other sports bats are to be classified in A63B 60/54

Details of manufacturing methods are additionally classified according to the relevant manufacturing process

Frames
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Resonance frequency related characteristics

A63B 60/002

String guides on frames, e.g. grommets
Definition statement

This place covers:

e.g. grommets.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Stringing tennis rackets

A63B 51/00

Devices arranged in or on the racket for adjusting the tension of the strings

A63B 51/12

Means on frames for clamping string ends
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Using strings with different characteristics on the same frame

A63B 51/001

Using strings with different cross-sections, e.g. different thickness, on the same frame

A63B 51/002

Using strings with different tension on the same frame

A63B 51/004

With non-circular cross-section

A63B 51/026

Devices arranged in or on the racket for adjusting the tension of the string

A63B 51/12

Means for achieving greater mobility of the string bed
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Devices for adjusting the tension of racket strings

A63B 51/12

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Using strings with different characteristics on the same frame

A63B 51/001

Using strings with different cross-sections, e.g. different thickness, on the same frame

A63B 51/002

Using strings with different tension on the same frame

A63B 51/004

With non-circular cross-section

A63B 51/026

Special rules of classification

A63B 51/12 takes precedence.

characterised by throat sections, i.e. sections or elements between the head and the shaft
Definition statement

This place covers:

Throat sections, i.e. not necessarily a separate piece.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

With variable thickness of the head in a direction perpendicular to the string plane

A63B 2049/0211

With variable thickness of the head in the string plane

A63B 2049/0217

T-shaped connection elements
Definition statement

This place covers:

e.g. typically found in badminton racquets

with head subframes for replacing strings
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Pre-woven string-sets ready for insertion into a frame

A63B 51/01

with special construction of the handle
Relationships with other classification places

See also B25G 1/00 for handle constructions and B25G 3/00 for attaching handles to implements on a shaft.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special means for attachment of arms or hands to exercising or sports equipment

A63B 21/4017

Throat sections with two legs having mutually different constructions

A63B 2049/0325

Handles or grips for bats

A63B 60/06

Special rules of classification

Details are also to be classified in subgroups of A63B 60/06 where appropriate

made of non-metallic materials, other than wood
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Shafts, e.g. non-metallic shafts, for golf clubs

A63B 53/10

Documents relating to methods of manufacturing composite shafts

B29C

Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts

B29C 70/00

Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts

B32B 5/00

Manufacture of articles or shaped materials containing macromolecular substances

C08J 5/00

Special rules of classification

Characteristics of materials are classified in A63B 2209/00 and subgroups, e.g. long, oriented fibres, e.g. wound filaments, woven fabrics, mats A63B 2209/023

Documents relating to methods of manufacturing composite shafts should also be classified in B29C.

made of metal
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Resonance frequency related characteristics

A63B 60/002

Stringing tennis, badminton or like rackets; Strings therefor; Maintenance of racket strings
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

String guides on frames

A63B 49/022

Clamping strings on frames

A63B 49/025

Devices for measuring the tension of strings (for controlling the tension during stringing A63B 51/14)
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices for controlling the tension during stringing

A63B 51/14, A63B 51/16

Measuring force, in general

G01L

Apparatus for or methods of measuring the tension in ropes, cables, wires, threads, belts, bands or like flexible members

G01L 5/04

Pre-woven string-sets ready for insertion into a frame
Special rules of classification

Head subframes for replacing the stringing A63B 49/038.

Strings; String substitutes; Products applied on strings, e.g. for protection against humidity or wear
Definition statement

This place covers:

Strings for sports rackets.

Relationships with other classification places

Methods of making a string for a racquet are usually classified in D02G 3/444

Yarn or threads for use in sports applications are ALSO classified in D02G 3/444

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Mechanical methods or apparatus in the manufacture of artificial filaments, threads, fibres, bristles or ribbons

D01D

Yarns or threads for use in sports applications

D02G 3/444

Ropes or cables in general

D07B

Strings for musical instruments

G10D 3/10

Golf clubs
Definition statement

This place covers:

Golf clubs considered as a whole, e.g. documents disclosing clubs characterised by the form, balance, Swing-weight or frequency of the overall club. In many cases the documents should also be classified in subgroups for individual characteristics (see Technical Relationships).

Relationships with other classification places

For special materials or manufacturing processes, the specific field concerned should be consulted, e.g. forged product B21K; making sport articles B21K 17/00; casting B22D; casting of metals/special casting B22D 19/00, B22D 25/00; soldering/welding B23K; laser welding B23K 26/00; shaping composites B29C 70/00; sport equipment B29L 2031/52; producing articles from plastics B29D; shaping of plastics for clubs B29L 2031/5227; heat treatment C21D; alloys C22C 19/055; metal matrix composite C22C 32/00; casting metallic material C23C.

Also, classify where appropriate in classes relating to specific parts of the club.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Cleaning or maintenance of golf-clubs, putters, shoes or other golf accessories

A63B 57/60

Bats, rackets or the like, not covered by groups A63B 49/00 - A63B 57/00

A63B 59/00

Devices for measuring, verifying or correcting golf club characteristics

A63B 60/42

Clubs or attachments on clubs for golf training

A63B 69/3632

Clubs or attachments on clubs for putting

A63B 69/3685

Metal forging or pressing of sports articles

B21K 17/00

Shaping of plastics for clubs

B29L 2031/5227

Special rules of classification

Details are also to be classified in subgroups of A63B 60/00 and A63B 2102/00, where appropriate.

Details of manufacturing methods are additionally classified according to the relevant manufacturing process.

{Club sets}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Group relating to sets of golf clubs, i.e. golf clubs related by a common characteristic throughout the series, e.g. length, swingweight, resonant frequency; the characteristic may be constant or progressive throughout the set.

Joint structures between the head and the shaft
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

General aspects: of joining tubular articles; of joining long products; of joining single elements to tubular articles; of hollow articles or bars; of joining several hollow-preforms to form hollow or tubular articles

B29C 66/50

{the shaft axis being forwardly offset relative to the striking face of the head}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Handle for bats, in general, whose axis is different from the main axis of the bat

A63B 60/34

{adjustable angular orientation}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Golf clubs in which the angular orientation of the shaft relative to the head can be adjusted (see image below).

media150.jpg

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Substantially flexible or hinged shafts

A63B 60/0081

{lie angle only, i.e. relative angular adjustment between the shaft and the club head about an axis parallel to the intended line of play when the club is in its normal address position}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Golf clubs in which the lie angle of the shaft relative to the head can be adjusted (see image below).

media151.jpg

{loft angle only, i.e. relative angular adjustment between the shaft and the club head about a horizontal axis perpendicular to the intended line of play when the club is in its normal address position}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Golf clubs in which the loft angle of the shaft relative to the head can be adjusted (see image below).

media152.jpg

{about the longitudinal axis of the shaft only}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Golf clubs in which the shaft can be adjusted about its longitudinal axis relative to the head (see image below).

media153.jpg

{with a range of alternative attachment points for the shaft}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Golf clubs in which the shaft can be attached to the head at any of a range of alternative attachment points (see image below).

media154.jpg

Heads
Special rules of classification

Subgroup A63B 53/04 is only to be used in case that none of its dependent lower subgroups is applicable; e.g. a document disclosing a driver but where the technology can also be used in iron clubs and putter should not be classified in A63B 53/04, but rather in A63B 53/0466 as Invention, A63B 53/047 and A63B 53/0487 as Additional.

Multiple entry classification is used, i.e. documents are classified in each subgroup that is applicable.

Club heads with the following features are additionally classified as follows:

Documents relating to woods must be classified in A63B 53/0466.

Documents relating to irons must be classified in A63B 53/047.

Putter heads are classified in A63B 53/0487.

Adjustable heads are classified in A63B 53/06, A63B 60/00, A63B 60/46.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

media158.png

media159.jpg

{Heads having an impact surface provided by a face insert}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Striking surfaces, in general, coated with high-friction abrasive material

A63B 60/004

{with special sole configurations}
Definition statement

This place covers:

A special configuration of the portion of the club head that normally touches the ground; this can be on the external side or on the internal side of this portion, e.g. a difference in thickness, ribs or even a lower portion that usually should contact the ground but which is designed not to touch the ground.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Strengthening ribs

A63B 53/045

{with special crown configurations}
Special rules of classification

In general, only wood clubs are regarded as having a crown. However, if in an iron club or a putter, the invention lies in the top portion of the club head, and this subgroup should be used.

A63B 53/0441 is the relevant group, if the effect is only a visual indication.

{with visual indicators for aligning the golf club}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Heads with special crown configurations

A63B 53/0437

Aiming or aligning devices for training purposes, for woods and irons; for putters

A63B 69/3632, A63B 69/3685

Special rules of classification

Considering that almost all putter heads and many woods have some form of visual indicator for aligning the golf club, this class is only given to those documents which describe details of the visual indicator, or in which the visual indicator differs from a standard marking.

{Details of grooves or the like on the impact surface}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Details of the surface of the striking face, e.g. special groove features, other protrusions or indentations.

Special rules of classification

Note that with the exception of putters, almost all golf clubs have a grooved striking face. This subgroup is only for golf clubs in which the surface is specified in detail.

{Strengthening ribs}
Special rules of classification

If the ribs are realised by creating slits or grooves, then only the subgroup A63B 60/52 should be used, unless on the impact surface, where only A63B 53/0445 should be used (see definition).

Bridge-like structures on putters are generally considered normal and should not be classified here unless special.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Rib

An elongated structure that protrudes and which reinforces another surface.

{Strengthening ribs on the rear surface of the impact face plate}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Heads with an impact surface provided by a face insert

A63B 53/0416

{with non-uniform thickness of the impact face plate}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Heads having an impact face plate where the cross-section along at least one axis discloses a non-uniform thickness. This should apply even if a cross-section in another axis might be uniform.

{characterised by tapering thickness of the impact face plate}
Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Tapering

A gradually diminishing thickness, without any non-diminishing portions or steps there between, either from one side of the face to another side of the face, or from the centre of the face outwards.

{wood-type}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Traditional wooden golf club heads, and also heads made of other materials but similar in shape to traditional wooden heads, e.g. US2009258727 (see image below). The front-to-rear length of the head is normally greater than the height, providing for a centre of gravity positioned far behind the striking face. These heads are for long-distance shots.

media94.jpg

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A wood-type golf club head

has a large, bulbous form usually with a convexly curved strike face and is used for hitting the ball long distances. They were traditionally solid wooden heads, but are nowadays usually in the form of hollow shells using strong, lightweight materials, e.g. titanium, fibre composite.

Synonyms and Keywords

Hybrid club: a hybrid club combines the playing characteristics of both woods and irons.

Hybrid wood: a club which has a convexly curved strike face like a wood but which is usually lower from crown to sole than a wood and does not extend as far back from the strike face to the rear of the head. It may be solid or hollow.

{iron-type}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Golf club heads resembling the type that was traditionally made of solid iron or steel, typically with a large, flat, angled striking face, usually having grooves to increase friction with a golf ball, e.g. GB2451317 (see image below). This group also club heads of similar shape but made of other materials.

media95.png

Special rules of classification

Irons with a cavity back, i.e. perimeter weighting but with the cavity open towards the rear of the club, should be classified here.

Irons with a hollow space which is completely closed on all sides including towards the rear should be classified in A63B 53/0475.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Iron -type golf club head

traditionally has a thin, blade-like body, usually with a planar strike face, and is made of iron or steel (forged or cast). Similar-shaped heads made of other materials, e.g. titanium, fibre composite, also fall into this category.

Cavity backs

Many irons feature peripheral weighting on some or all of the perimeter of the rear surface. Irons with weighting around most or all of the perimeter are known as "cavity backs".

{with one or more enclosed cavities}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Irons with a hollow space which is completely closed on all sides and towards the rear.

Examples:

US2005209023

media96.jpg

US2004266550

media97.jpg

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Hybrid wood

A63B 53/0466

Special rules of classification

Irons with a cavity back, i.e. perimeter weighting but with the cavity open towards the rear of the club, should be classified in A63B 53/047.

Synonyms and Keywords

Hybrid club

a hybrid club combines the playing characteristics of both woods and irons.

Hybrid iron

a club which has a flat strike face like a traditional iron but which usually has an enclosed volume behind the strike face, providing a larger moment of inertia and a centre of gravity which is displaced further behind the strike face compared with a traditional iron.

{for putters (A63B 53/065 takes precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media98.png

e.g. US2007243950

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Adjustable heads for putters

A63B 53/065

{with added weights, e.g. changeable, replaceable}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Normal golf clubs with externally attached weights, e.g. for warming-up

A63B 69/3638

{moving on impact, slidable, spring or otherwise elastically biased}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Added weights that are moving on impact, e.g. sliding or turning.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Weight systems where the position of the weight can be changed, but remains fixed during the stroke

A63B 2053/0491

Special rules of classification

Weights movable in a slit should also be classified in A63B 60/52.

adjustable
Definition statement

This place covers:

Golf club heads with some form of adjustment means for varying the characteristics of the club head, whereby the adjustment does not consist solely of changeable or replaceable added weights, or whereby the adjustment does not take place in the joint structure between the head and the shaft.

The following image shows adjustment means 3 on golf club head 1.

media99.jpg

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

When the adjustment takes place in the joint structure between the head and the shaft

A63B 53/022

Devices for measuring, verifying, correcting or customizing characteristics of golf-clubs, bats or rackets

A63B 60/42

Special rules of classification

Golf club heads with added weights, e.g. changeable, replaceable, but not otherwise adjustable, should be classified in A63B 2053/0491 and one or more of A63B 53/0466, A63B 53/047 and A63B 53/0475.

{for putters}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Putter heads with some form of adjustment means for varying the characteristics of the head, whereby the adjustment does not consist solely of changeable or replaceable added weights, or whereby the adjustment does not take place in the joint structure between the head and the shaft.

Image below shows a golf putter head 3, with head body 4 having a rotatable faceplate 3 that rotates about axis (X).

media160.jpg

Special rules of classification

Putter heads with added weights, e.g. changeable, replaceable, but not otherwise adjustable, should be classified in A63B 2053/0491, A63B 60/02 and A63B 53/0487.

with special arrangements for obtaining a variable impact
Definition statement

This place covers:

Golf clubs with some form of adjustment means for varying the characteristics of the club, e.g. the club's balance or centre of gravity. See for example WO2007111272, which displays a changing head weight (see image below).

media101.jpg

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

User-manipulated weights; fluids, e.g. water

A63B 21/0602

Resisting devices with rotary bodies; flywheels

A63B 21/225

Striking surfaces coated with high-friction abrasive material

A63B 60/004

Non-metallic shafts
Definition statement

This place covers:

Shafts made of composite materials and other non-metallic materials.

Characteristics of a shaft whereby the material is not mentioned and/or is not important for the invention

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Racket frames made of non-metallic materials, other than wood

A63B 49/10

Metallic golf club shafts

A63B 53/12

Resonance frequency related characteristics

A63B 60/002

Substantially flexible shafts, hinged shafts

A63B 60/0081

Telescopic shafts

A63B 60/0085

Weighted handle

A63B 60/24

Means for damping vibration

A63B 60/54

Shaft materials

A63B 2209/00

Size reducing arrangements for stowing or transport

A63B 2210/50

Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts

B29C 70/00

Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts

B32B 5/00

Manufacture of articles or shaped materials containing macromolecular substances

C08J 5/00

Special rules of classification

Considering that all golf clubs have a shaft, classifying in this group is not required for documents mentioning a particular type of shaft, if the shaft itself is not important for the invention disclosed, and is well known per se; in such a case, classifying the invention alone in the relevant groups is considered sufficient.

This group is also not required for documents disclosing a golf club, in which the otherwise well-known shaft is chosen to provide a golf club with specific characteristics. For example, a golf club with a carefully selected resonant frequency based on the length and stiffness of the shaft and the mass of the club head should be classified in A63B 53/00 and A63B 60/002, a set of such clubs should also be classified in A63B 53/005.

Documents relating to methods of manufacturing composite shaft should also be classified in B29C.

Characteristics of materials are classified in A63B 2209/00 and subgroups, e.g. long, oriented fibres, e.g. wound filaments, woven fabrics, and mats A63B 2209/023.

Metallic shafts
Definition statement

This place covers:

This class is for shafts made of metallic materials.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Shafts made of a composite material comprising metallic and non-metallic materials

A63B 53/10, A63B 60/00, A63B 60/46

Special rules of classification

This class is not required for documents mentioning a particular type of metallic shaft if the shaft itself is not important to the invention disclosed and is well known per se; in such a case, classifying the invention alone is considered sufficient.

This class is also not required for documents disclosing a golf club in which an otherwise well known metallic shaft is chosen to provide a golf club with specific characteristics. For example, a golf club with a carefully selected resonant frequency based on the length and stiffness of the shaft and the mass of the club head should be classified in A63B 53/00 and A63B 60/002 ; a set of such clubs should also be classified in A63B 53/005

Handles
Definition statement

This place covers:

This class is for documents relating to the area or areas of the golf club gripped by the golfer when playing golf. It is for grips covering a part or parts of the club shaft. It is also for "gripless" shafts, i.e. shafts intended to be grasped directly by the hands of the golfer without an attached grip member.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the upper limbs of the user

A63B 21/4017

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the hand of the user

A63B 21/4019

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the wrist of the user

A63B 21/4021

Weighted handles for golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like

A63B 60/24

Attaching handles to the implements

B25G 3/00

Special rules of classification

"Gripless" shafts, i.e. shafts intended to be grasped directly by the hands of the golfer without an attached grip member, are to be classified here and also in A63B 53/10, A63B 60/00, A63B 60/46 for non-metallic shafts or A63B 53/12, A63B 60/00, A63B 60/46 for metallic shafts.

Details of the handles are also to be classified in subgroups of A63B 60/06, where appropriate.

Bags for golf clubs; Stands for golf clubs for use on the course; Wheeled carriers specially adapted for golf bags
Definition statement

This place covers:

Golf bags, supports for golf bags while golfing, or caddies with wheels for golf bags.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Stands for golf clubs for use on the course

A63B 55/10

Security means for locking golf clubs in the bag

A63B 2055/403

Devices for protection, storage, or transport (e.g. stands or cases) for golf clubs (e.g. head covers and connector means therefor)

A63B 60/62

Sheaths for golf clubs

A63B 60/64

Apparatus or equipment provided with article holders

A63B 2225/68

Flexible luggage; Handbags

A45C 3/00

Sport bags

A45C 2003/007

Sacks or packs carried on the body (harness for carrying a golf bag)

A45F 3/00

Stands for golf clubs {, e.g.} for use on the course {; Golf club holders, racks or presses}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Means for carrying one or more golf clubs, or for supporting one or more golf clubs fully or partially above the ground.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Golf bags

A63B 55/00, A63B 55/30, A63B 55/40, A63B 60/60, A63B 60/64

Accessories for stowing or putting away equipment for games played with rackets or bats

A63B 60/60, A63B 71/0045

Cabinets or racks for storage

A47B, A47B 81/005

Show stands, hangers or shelves for displaying or storing golf clubs, e.g. in a shop

A47F, A47F 7/0028

with special receptacles for the balls
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices for holding or carrying balls

A63B 47/00

Holders for golf balls when not in bags; stands or carriers for golf clubs

A63B 57/20

{Warning devices for indicating missing golf clubs}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Theft alarms

G08B 13/00

{Security means for locking golf clubs in the bag}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Means for locking the clubs in the bag not necessarily only for theft prevention (it could also be, e.g. for holding the clubs into position).

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Covers or hoods for golf bags

A63B 55/404

{Covers or hoods for golf bags}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Covers for club heads

A63B 60/62

Flexible luggage; Handbags

A45C 3/00

Sport bags

A45C 2003/007

Protective covers

A45C 13/002

{releasably attached}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This class is for covers which are removable from the golf bag. Such covers or hoods can either cover the opening of the bag or enclose the whole bag, e.g. travel bags or cases for golf bags.

{Releasably mounted accessories fitted outside the bag, e.g. straps or holders (A63B 55/20 and A63B 55/50 take precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Golf bags with special or detachable receptacles for the balls

A63B 55/20

Supports for golf bags

A63B 55/50

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Covers or hoods for golf bags

A63B 55/404

Holders of golfing accessories, e.g. of tees, balls, or golf ball position markers

A63B 57/20

Covers for golf club heads

A63B 60/62

Details of carrying straps

A45F 3/00

Supplementary fittings on vehicle exterior for carrying loads, e.g. luggage, sports gear, or the like

B60R 9/00

Supports, e.g. with devices for anchoring to the ground
Definition statement

This place covers:

Support means for golf bags

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Supports (other than bags) for golf clubs on the golf course

A63B 55/10

Wheeled carriers specially adapted for golf bags
Definition statement

This place covers:

Golf bags.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Measuring distance travelled

A63B 2220/20

Running gear or propulsion features for wheeled carriers for golf bags

B60

Supplementary fittings on vehicle exterior for carrying loads, e.g. luggage, sports gear or the like

B60R 9/00

Insofar as the features thereof are generic to hand carts

B62B

Trolley adapted to receive an ordinary/unspecified bag

B62B 1/00

Accessories or details for handcarts

B62B 5/00

Trolleys or handcarts for carrying golf articles, e.g. golf bags

B62B 2202/404

Trolleys or handcarts for carrying golf clubs, i.e. not in a golf bag

B62B 2202/406

Foldable or dismountable when not in use

B62B 2205/00

Cycles; with adaptations to be used as golf carts

B62K 2005/002

Measuring distance traversed for golf carts

G01C 22/004

{Means for mounting weather shields, e.g. umbrellas, on caddies}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Weather shields for a golf buggy

B60J 7/10

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Umbrellas

A45B 11/00

{motorised}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Motor vehicles

B62D

Golfing accessories
Definition statement

This place covers:

This group concerns devices and accessories used in the game of golf.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Golf clubs

A63B 53/00, A63B 60/00, A63B 60/46

Bags for golf clubs

A63B 55/00, A63B 55/30, A63B 55/40, A63B 60/60, A63B 60/64

Training appliances or apparatus for golf

A63B 69/36

Slidably retracted in a housing when not in use

A63B 2210/58

Cigar holders

A24F 13/22

{Automatic teeing devices (devices for automatically dispensing balls in general A63B 47/002)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices for automatically dispensing balls in general

A63B 47/002

Golf tees
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Means for releasably holding a ball in position prior to kicking, striking or the like

A63B 69/0075

Brush-type tees
Definition statement

This place covers:

Tees which are conceived to penetrate the ground and where the ball is contacted only by flexible elements, no matter whether they constitute a "real brush" as such or something similar, as exemplified as follows:

With a "real brush":

media102.png(WO0045905)

Not necessarily being a "real brush":

media103.png(US8167741)

with writing means
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Other kind of sport equipment with a writing point

A63B 2225/08

Holders, e.g. of tees or of balls
Definition statement

This place covers:

Holders for golfing accessories (such as, e.g. divot repair tools) when not in use or play.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices for handling or treating balls, e.g. for holding balls

A63B 47/00

Ball holders attached to the player's body

A63B 47/001

Receptacles for golf balls fitted on golf bags

A63B 55/20

Supports for holding cigars or cigarettes while smoking

A24F 13/22

{Tee holders (to be fitted on golf bags or caddies A63B 55/408)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Holders for tees when not in use.

Special rules of classification

When these devices are adapted to be releasably mounted on a golf bag, they should also be classified in A63B 55/408

{Golf ball position marker holders}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Holders for golf ball position markers when not in use.

Special rules of classification

When these devices are adapted to be releasably mounted on a golf bag, they should also be classified in A63B 55/408.

Markers
Definition statement

This place covers:

Golf ball position markers.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Holders of golf ball position markers

A63B 57/207

with magnets
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Magnetic materials

A63B 2209/08

{Golf ball position markers}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Magnetic materials

A63B 2209/08

Apparatus or equipment provided with article holders, e.g. keys, wallets, books

A63B 2225/687

Golf cups or holes
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Targets or goals for ball games which are variable in size

A63B 2063/002

Means for closing or opening a hole, covering, blocking or uncovering, unblocking a target

A63F 7/3055

Special rules of classification

Additional classifications may be required in A63B 63/00 (targets or goals for ball games) and A63B 69/36 (Training appliances or apparatus for golf) and subclasses.

{Cups with automatic ball ejector means}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Targets or goals with ball returning means

A63B 2063/001.

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Variable in size

A63B 2063/002

specially adapted for course maintenance
Definition statement

This place covers:

Specific tools for repairing or maintaining the turf where the balls rest, e.g. golf divot tools.

Cleaning or maintenance of golf clubs, putters, shoes or other golf accessories ({cleaning balls A63B 47/04;} devices for cleaning handles or grips of golf clubs or putters A63B 60/36)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Cleaning balls

A63B 47/04

Devices for cleaning handles or grips

A63B 60/36

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices specially adapted for course maintenance

A63B 57/50

Brush for cleaning specific unusual places not otherwise covered, e.g. golf clubs

A46B 2200/3073

Cleaning footwear in general

A47L 23/00

Cleaning in general

B08B

Bats, rackets, or the like, not covered by groups A63B 49/00 - A63B 57/00
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Clubs for swinging exercises in general

A63B 15/00

Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like

A63B 60/00

Bats in general (not only rackets) whose frames disclose slits

A63B 60/52

Bats with a ball tethered thereto

A63B 67/20

Shaping of plastics for clubs

B29L 2031/5227

Special rules of classification

Details of manufacturing methods are additionally classified according to the relevant manufacturing process.

Aspects of inventions which relate to specific types of sports bats should be classified in the relevant group, e.g. rackets in A63B 49/00, golf clubs in A63B 53/00, A63B 60/00, A63B 60/46 specific types of bat see A63B 59/20 - A63B 59/80

having means, e.g. pockets, netting or adhesive type surfaces, for catching or holding a ball, e.g. for lacrosse or pelota
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Juggling games with integral catching arrangements

A63B 67/083

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Hand-held mechanical projectors, e.g. for balls

A63B 65/122

Dog ball launchers

A01K 15/025

forming hand-held throwing or catching aids for use with rings, discs, wheels or cylindrical throwing-bodies, or for use with balls having a central bore
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Hand-held mechanical projectors, e.g. for balls

A63B 65/122

Sling weapons

F41B 3/00

with solid surfaces
Definition statement

This place covers:

Typical examples, such as paddles for table tennis, frescobol and pickle ball.

with perforated surfaces
Definition statement

This place covers:

Every kind of paddle with perforated flat striking surfaces for hitting a ball in the air and which is not covered by other groups.

Typical examples are paddles for paddle tennis, pádel tennis and platform tennis.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Stringed rackets, e.g. for tennis

A63B 49/00

Circular bats or paddles not provided for in groups A63B 59/20 - A63B 59/70
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Games using a bat or racket with a body, e.g. a ball tethered thereto

A63B 65/122

Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
Special rules of classification

Aspects of inventions that relate to specific types of sports bats should be classified in the relevant group, e.g. stringed rackets in A63B 49/00, golf clubs in A63B 53/00, specific types of bats in A63B 59/20 - A63B 59/80.

Details are also to be classified in subgroups of A63B 2102/00 where appropriate.

{Resonance frequency related characteristics}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Emitting sound, noise or music

A63B 2071/0625

{Surfaces specially adapted for reducing air resistance}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Details of the surface, e.g. dimpled.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Surfaces reducing air resistance, in general

F15D 1/12

Special rules of classification

Forms, profiles or through holes for reducing air resistance (i.e. special aerodynamic features that are not related to specific details of the surface) are classified in A63B 2225/01.

{Substantially flexible shafts; Hinged shafts}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Flexible shafts (with or without a hinge).

Shafts with a hinge (independent of whether the hinged parts are flexible on their own or not).

Shafts with a certain degree of stiffness, independent of whether the flexibility is explicitly mentioned, as both flexibility and stiffness are relative terms that refer to the same property (i.e. a bigger or smaller degree of bendability).

media155.jpg

media156.png

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Allowing adjustable angular orientation of the head of a golf club with respect to the shaft of the golf club

A63B 53/023

{Telescopic shafts}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Telescopic shafts, handles and grips of rackets, golf clubs and every other kind of sport clubs and bats.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Handles, grips and also shafts (when the shaft is used for gripping the apparatus) adjustable in length and which are not telescopic

A63B 60/28

Walking sticks with shafts of adjustable length, e.g. telescopic shafts

A45B 2009/007

Telescopic ski-sticks varying the length

A63C 11/221

Telescopic or extensible handles for hand implements

B25G 1/04

Telescoping systems

F16B 7/10

Ballast means for adjusting the centre of mass (A63B 60/24, A63B 60/54 take precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Weighted handles

A63B 60/24

Golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like with means for damping vibrations

A63B 60/54

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Golf club heads with added weights

A63B 2053/0491, A63B 2053/0495

Movable ballast means {(A63B 15/005 takes precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

media133.pngmedia134.png

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Clubs with a weight movable along the longitudinal axis due to centrifugal forces

A63B 15/005

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Weights set in movement on impact of the ball for damping vibrations

A63B 60/54

Handles
Definition statement

This place covers:

Handles, grips and also shafts/shanks (when the shaft/shank is used for gripping the apparatus) of rackets, golf clubs and every other kind of sport clubs and bats.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the upper limbs of the user

A63B 21/4017

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the hand of the user

A63B 21/4019

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the wrist of the user

A63B 21/4021

Handles for hand implements

B25G 1/00

Special rules of classification

Handles for rackets should be classified in A63B 49/08 and also in the subgroups of A63B 60/06 where appropriate.

Handles for golf clubs should be classified in A63B 53/14 and also in the subgroups of A63B 60/06 where appropriate.

Example of document for A63B 60/06 and A63B 21/4021:

media162.png

Other types of bat should be classified in the appropriate class according to the type of bat (see A63B 59/00 and subgroups).

contoured according to the anatomy of the user's hand
Definition statement

This place covers:

Handles which are shaped to match the user's hand as shown in the following figures.

media105.pngmedia106.pngmedia107.png

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Tactile feedback

A63B 2071/0655

Special rules of classification

Handles or grips with corrugated cross sections are additionally classified in A63B 60/48.

Coverings specially adapted for handles, e.g. sleeves or ribbons
Definition statement

This place covers:

Coverings for handles. Note examples of coverings, sleeves or ribbons shown in the following images.

media166.png

media109.png

media110.pngmedia111.png

Relationships with other classification places

Layered products in strips: B32B 7/14

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Handle-bar grips

B62K 21/26

Caps; Ferrules
Definition statement

This place covers:

media112.pngmedia113.png

with means for cooling, ventilating or sweat-reduction, e.g. holes or powder dispensers
Definition statement

This place covers:

media114.png

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Bats with through holes

A63B 60/50

Rackets with slits, i.e. elongate holes

A63B 60/52

with two handgrips
Definition statement

This place covers:

media115.pngmedia116.png

with adjustable length
Definition statement

This place covers:

Having handles with changeable length. See example of a handle with changeable length in the following figure.

media117.png

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Telescopic shafts

A63B 60/0085

Walking sticks of adjustable length

A45B 2009/007

Telescopic ski-sticks e.g. for varying the length or damping shocks

A63C 11/221

with adjustable circumference
Definition statement

This place covers:

media118.pngmedia119.png

with means for changing the angular position of the handle about its longitudinal axis
Definition statement

This place covers:

media107.pngmedia121.png

with the handle axis different from the main axis of the implement
Definition statement

This place covers:

media122.png

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

The shaft axis of a golf club being forwardly offset relative to the striking face of the head

A63B 53/021

Bats or rackets with holding means provided inside, on the edge or on the rear face of the striking surface

A63B 60/40

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Throat sections with two legs having mutually different constructions

A63B 2049/0325

Devices for cleaning handles or grips
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Cleaning in general

B08B

having holding means provided inside, on the edge or on the rear face of the striking surface
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Bats or rackets having means, e.g. pockets, netting, or adhesive type surfaces, for catching or holding a ball

A63B 59/20

Rackets or the like with flat striking surfaces for hitting a ball in the air, e.g. for table tennis

A63B 59/40

Devices for measuring, verifying, correcting or customising the inherent characteristics of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like, e.g. measuring the maximum torque a batting shaft can withstand
Definition statement

This place covers:

Measuring characteristics of implements; custom fitting bats, rackets or golf clubs

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Clubs having a weight movable along the longitudinal axis of the club due to centrifugal forces

A63B 15/005

Resonance frequency related characteristics

A63B 60/002

Golf club selection aids informing player of his average or expected shot distance for each club

A63B 69/3605

Testing, calibrating or measuring of equipment

A63B 2225/02

Special rules of classification

Bats or rackets for swinging exercises having a weight movable along the longitudinal axis of the club due to centrifugal forces should also be classified in A63B 15/005

Details relating to measuring of physical parameters relating to a sporting activity should also be classified in A63B 2220/00.

Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances should also be classified in A63B 24/00.

Presses for stringed rackets
Definition statement

This place covers:

Devices for pressing racket frames in order to keep the frame flat. Some presses have ball holders, but this feature is not essential for a press.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ball holders in general

A63B 47/00

Measurement devices associated with golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like for measuring physical parameters relating to sporting activity, e.g. baseball bats with impact indicators or bracelets for measuring the golf swing
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Resonance frequency related characteristics

A63B 60/002

Golf club selection aids informing player of his average or expected shot distance for each club

A63B 69/3605

Testing, calibrating or measuring of equipment

A63B 2225/02

Measuring of sport goods in general

G01B 5/0023

Special rules of classification

Bats or rackets for swinging exercises having a weight movable along the longitudinal axis of the club due to centrifugal forces should also be classified in A63B 15/005.

Details relating to measuring of physical parameters relating to a sporting activity should also be classified in A63B 2220/00.

Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances should also be classified in A63B 24/00.

{Means for indicating or measuring the pressure on the grip}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Measuring force related parameters

A63B 2220/50

Sensors arranged on the exercise apparatus or sports implement

A63B 2220/833

with corrugated cross-section
Definition statement

This place covers:

media123.pngmedia124.pngmedia125.png

Special rules of classification

Handles or grips contoured to the anatomy of the user's hand are additionally classified in A63B 60/12.

with through-holes (A63B 60/18 takes precedence; for stringing purposes A63B 49/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Used for non-elongated holes traversing the solid parts of the bat (can also be the blade, if solid). It is also used for important holes in the bat, even if they do not exactly traverse the bat completely (i.e. "through" has to be understood in a broad way).

Only used for through holes which have not been subsequently filled-in with another material. However, it is used when only a lid or a cap has been placed on the through hole, subsequently covering it but not completely filling it in.

media128.png

Example of through holes completely traversing the shaft.

media129.png

Example of through holes completely traversing a solid blade.

media130.png

Example of important holes (8, 10) in the frame, not exactly traversing it, but still of an special relevance. US patent 5,232,220.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

String guides on frames

A63B 49/022

Tennis rackets comprising a wooden blade with perforations as a substitute for the strings

A63B 51/045

Through holes that conform normal design features of a golf club head, such as the hole for the insertion of the shaft, enclosed cavities, through holes for inserting weights, etc.

A63B 53/00 and subgroups

Iron-type golf club heads with one or more enclosed cavities

A63B 53/0475

Golf club heads with added weights inserted in through holes

A63B 2053/0491

Through holes whose features, effects or function are to be classified according to the specific scheme for golf club heads

A63B 53/14 and subgroups

Handles or grips with grooves or holes for cooling, ventilating or sweat-reduction (including handles or grips for rackets)

A63B 60/18

Bats with slits (i.e. long narrow cuts or openings which might traverse the frame or not)

A63B 60/52

Example of through hole (A63B 60/50) vs. slit (A63B 60/52):

media86.png

Example of through holes for adding weights to a golf club head (A63B 2053/0491) and which through holes, therefore, are not classified in A63B 60/50:

media132.png

with slits
Definition statement

This place covers:

Bat frames with long narrow cuts or openings. They might traverse the frame or not.

It is used for every kind of bat, not only for rackets.

The following image shows an example of a long narrow traversing opening.

media84.png

The following image is an example of a long narrow cut (i.e. non-traversing),

media85.png

Example of through hole (A63B 60/50) vs. slit (A63B 60/52)

media172.png

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Slits for guiding strings

A63B 49/022

Rackets comprising a wooden blade with perforations as a substitute for the strings

A63B 51/045

Slits whose features, effects or function are to be classified according to the specific scheme for golf club heads, or that conform normal design features of a golf club head, such as the grooves on impact surface

A63B 53/14

Bat handles or grips with holes for cooling, ventilating or sweat-reduction

A63B 60/18

Bats with corrugated cross sections (e.g. with a plurality of slits in the longitudinal direction)

A63B 60/48

Bats with through holes (note: holes traversing the solid parts of the bat and which are not slits, i.e. non-elongated)

A63B 60/50

Special rules of classification

Bat handles or grips with holes in the form of slits for cooling, ventilating or sweat-reduction are classified in A63B 60/18

with means for damping vibrations
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Clubs for swinging exercises having a weight movable along the longitudinal axis of the club due to centrifugal forces

A63B 15/005

Means for damping vibration in general

F16F

Devices for protection, storage or transport, e.g. stands or cases
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Bags or stands for golf clubs

A63B 55/00, A63B 55/10

Covers or hoods for golfbags

A63B 55/404

Devices for storing or displaying elongated objects such as fishing rods, guns etc.

A47B 81/005

specially adapted for rackets
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ball holders in general

A63B 47/00

Sport bags

A45C 2003/007

specially adapted for clubs, e.g. head covers {, connector means therefor}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Covers or hoods for golf bags

A63B 55/404

Tennis nets or accessories for tennis or like games {, e.g. volley-ball (devices for holding or carrying balls A63B 47/00; for table tennis A63B 67/04)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Accessories for stowing or putting sports equipment away

A63B 71/0036, A63B 60/56

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices for holding or carrying balls

A63B 47/00, A63B 57/20

Accessories for table tennis

A63B 67/04

{Nets for tennis or like games or accessories therefor (straining or adjusting devices on the posts A63B 61/02)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Straining or adjusting devices on the posts

A63B 61/02

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Supports for table tennis nets

A63B 67/045

Tennis

A63B 2102/02

Badminton

A63B 2102/04

Table tennis

A63B 2102/16

Volleyball

A63B 2243/0095

Warp knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes

D04B 21/00

{Accessories for training purposes mounted on the net}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Other training appliances or apparatus for tennis

A63B 69/38

Posts; Revolvably-mounted posts {; Straining or adjusting devices on the posts, e.g. coin- or time operated}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Supports, e.g. floor sockets for removable posts or poles

A63B 71/023

Straining or adjusting devices for nets {, e.g. centre strainers, single-double adjusters, net height meters (straining or adjusting devices on the posts A63B 61/02)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Straining or adjusting devices on the posts

A63B 61/02

Targets or goals for ball games (golf cups A63B 57/40)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Golf cups

A63B 57/40

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances

A63B 24/00

Ball rebound walls

A63B 69/0097

Indicating or scoring devices for games or players, or for other sports activities

A63B 71/06

Targets for projectiles other than balls

A63F 9/0204

Targets for games

A63F 9/0278

Fixing nets to objects

F16G 11/00

Targets for weapons

F41J

Targets; Target stands; Target holders

F41J 1/00

Dartboards

F41J 3/00

Target indicating systems; Target-hit or score detecting systems

F41J 5/00

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Football (unless American football is specified)

Soccer (Association football)

with {substantially} horizontal opening for ball, e.g. for basketball {(A63B 57/40, A63B 63/06 take precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Golf cups

A63B 57/40

Moving targets, e.g. moving or revolving on impact

A63B 63/06

Implements for throwing  (throwing toys A63H 33/18 ){; Mechanical projectors, e.g. using spring force}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Throwing toys

A63H 33/18

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Golf cups with ball ejector means

A63B 57/405

Stationarily-arranged devices for projecting balls

A63B 69/40

Shooting or hurling games

A63F 9/02

Throwing weapons

F41B

Sling weapons

F41B 3/00

Trap machines for trapshooting and clay-pigeon targets

F41J 9/18

Darts

F42B 6/003

Spears or the like {; Javelins}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Darts

F42B 6/003

Archery arrows

F42B 6/04

Discus discs; Quoits
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Flying disc toys such as frisbees

A63H 33/18

Ball-throwing apparatus with or without catchers {(hand-held throwing or catching aids A63B 59/20); Mechanical projectors, e.g. using spring force}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Sticks for lacrosse, pelota or similar; hand-held throwing or catching aids

A63B 59/20

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Stationary devices for projecting balls or other bodies

A63B 69/40

Toys for animals

A01K 15/025

For propelling or projecting the balls in miniature bowling alleys

A63D 3/02

Apparatus for projecting balls for indoor games

A63F 7/24

{Hand-held mechanical projectors, e.g. for balls}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Sticks for lacrosse, pelota or similar; hand-held throwing or catching aids

A63B 59/20

Sling weapons

F41B 3/00

{Games using balls, not otherwise provided for}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

Amongst other games, Beer Pong games are classified here but also additionally classified in A63F 7/0017 and A63F 2250/024.

{Games similar to volleyball or basketball and played on trampolines or the like, e.g. "Spaceball" or "Aeroball"}
Special rules of classification

Documents with trampolines are additionally classified in A63B 5/11

{played in water}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Apparatus used in water

A63B 2225/60

Special golf games, e.g. miniature golf {or golf putting games played on putting tracks; putting practice apparatus having an elongated platform as a putting track}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Inclined platforms for practising drives from slopes

A63B 69/3652

Mats for golf practice

A63B 69/3661

Golf courses and golf practising terrains having a plurality of driving areas, fairways, greens.

A63B 69/3691

{with incorporated means acting on the track surface for varying its topography, e.g. slope}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Slopes or trails for skiing

A63C 19/10

Table games physically beneficial for the human body, modelled on outdoor sports, e.g. table tennis (other table games A63F)
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Apparatus generating unpredictable signals for reaction time training

A63B 69/0053

Tables for table tennis

A47B 25/003

Other table games

A63F

Special rules of classification

Reference A63F is non-limiting in the A63B 67/04. CPC will be updated once this inconsistency is resolved.

Table games modelled on outdoor sports with ball rebound surfaces other than the horizontal table surface, are to be classified here and also in A63B 69/0097.

{Supports for table tennis nets}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Nets for table tennis, i.e. not the support but only the net itself

A63B 61/003

Ring or disc tossing games {, e.g. quoits; Throwing or tossing games, e.g. using balls; Games for manually rolling balls, e.g. marbles}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Adjusting apparatus; Stands for players for bowling alleys

A63D 1/06

Special rules of classification

This group also covers the game of "Disc golf".

Beer-pong games (also known as "Beirut") are usually classified as follows:

A63B 67/06 – usually when on a table, A63B 67/066 – usually when on the "ground", plus, additionally, A63F 2250/024 and A63F 7/0017.

Other typical symbols that might be used according to the circumstances might be:

Juggling or spinning ball games played as games of skill (A63B 67/16 takes precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Diabolos or similar thrown and caught spinning tops; Throwing and catching devices therefor

A63B 67/16

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Other games using tethered balls

A63B 67/10

Games using a bat or racket with a ball tethered thereto

A63B 67/20

{Juggling games using sticks or discs}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Clubs, e.g. for swinging exercises

A63B 15/00

Special rules of classification

Juggling clubs are classified as follows: A63B 15/00 (invention information) and A63B 67/086 (additional information).

Games with thread-suspended or swingably-mounted bodies, e.g. balls, pointed bodies shaped as birds, animals, or the like, for aiming at and hitting targets (games using a bat with a ball tethered thereto A63B 67/20, pin games with tethered balls A63D 7/00 ){; Games using tethered bodies, e.g. balls, not otherwise provided for}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Games using a bat or racket with a body, e.g. a ball tethered thereto

A63B 67/20

Pin games with tethered balls

A63D 7/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Bats tethered to a line or cord

A63B 69/0079

Indoor games using small tethered balls

A63F 2007/4087

Tethered playing balls or other tethered playing bodies supported on a tethering arm

A63F 2007/4093

Curling stone; Shuffleboard; Similar sliding games
Special rules of classification

This group also covers ice hockey pucks, which are classified both in A63B 67/14 and A63B 69/0026.

Badminton or similar games with feathered missiles
Definition statement

This place covers:

Apparatus or equipment specially adapted for badminton or similar games with feathered missiles. The games other than badminton include hanetsuki, which is a traditional Japanese game, shuttlecock, and battledore.

Example covered by this group but not covered by group A63B 67/183: Portable cases for feathered missiles

media138.png

Example covered by this group but not covered by group A63B 67/183: Cartridges of which feathered missiles can be easily taken out.

media139.png

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices for handling or treating balls

A63B 47/00

Badminton

A63B 2102/04

Darts

F42B 6/003

Special rules of classification

Shuttlecocks for badminton are classified in A63B 67/18 and A63B 2102/04.

with special functions, e.g. light emission or sound generation
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Balls with special arrangements

A63B 43/00

Games using a bat {or racket} with a ball {or other body} tethered thereto
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Bats tethered to a line or cord

A63B 69/0079

Pin games with tethered balls

A63D 7/00

Tethered playing balls or other tethered playing bodies

A63F 2007/4087

Tethered playing balls or other tethered playing bodies supported on a tethering arm

A63F 2007/4093

Training appliances or apparatus for special sports (training of parachutists B64D 23/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mechanical aspects of training appliances or apparatus.

Relationships with other classification places

A63B 69/00 and its subgroups deal with the mechanical features of training appliances or apparatus used when training for sports. Some groups and subgroups in subclass A63B are used for additional information and may cause confusion:

  • A63B 24/00, which relates to electric or electronic controls for apparatuses classified in other groups and subgroups of A63B (not A63B 71/06).
  • A63B 71/06, which relates to different kinds of indicating devices for sports for apparatuses classified in other groups and subgroups of A63B.
  • A63B 2220/00, for measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity.
  • When the invention disclosed in a document does not lie in a mechanical sports device or the electronic controlling thereof with a mechanical effect on the device, it should not be classified in A63B (at least not as "invention information").
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Training of parachutists

B64D 23/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce

A63B 21/00

Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body

A63B 23/00

Measuring movement of entire body or parts thereof

A61B 5/11

Measuring muscular strength for diagnostic purposes

A61B 5/22

Apparatus for passive exercising or massage

A61H

Video games

A63F 13/00

Exercising for producing mechanical power

F03G 5/00

Archers' finger tabs

F41B 5/1473

Measuring of sport goods in general

G01B 5/0023

Measure arrangements characterised by the use of optical means

G01B 11/00

Systems for determining distance or velocity using ultrasonic, sonic, or infrasonic waves

G01S 11/14

Systems using reflection of acoustic waves

G01S 15/00

Systems using reflection of electromagnetic waves, velocity or trajectory

G01S 17/58

GPS – receivers – sporting applications

G01S 19/19

Controlling member being movable by hand, e.g. joystick

G05G 9/047

Input interaction (Gesture, VR, GUI)

G06F 3/01

Data acquisition and logging

G06F 17/40

Performance analysis

G06Q 10/0639

Analysis of motion

G06T 7/20

Recognition of whole body movements, e.g. for sport training

G06V 40/23

Race time recorders

G07C 1/24

Simulators for teaching or training

G09B 9/00

Devices for exercising or strengthening of fingers or arms in teaching music

G09B 15/06

Teaching repetitive work cycles; Sequence of movements; sport

G09B 19/0038

Rhythm (Matching music to exercise)

G10H 1/40

Synchornising audio tracks of files

G10H 2240/325

ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans relating to physical therapies or activities, e.g. physiotherapy, acupressure or exercising

G16H 20/30

Special rules of classification

The control aspect should be classified in A63B 24/00

The interface features (indicating or scoring devices) should be classified in A63B 71/06

The sensors should be classified in A63B 2220/00 or A63B 2230/00

The position of the user should be classified in A63B 2208/00

The specific sport should be classified in A63B 2243/00 or A63B 2244/00, unless covered by the title of the group.

{for baseball}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Baseball, e.g. softball or rounders.

Special rules of classification

Depending on whether it is used for baseball, softball or rounders, this subgroup always needs to be complemented by, respectively, the following codes.

Baseball, softball or rounders

A63B 2102/18

{Baseball bases}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Baseball mounds also.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Apparatus for setting-out or dividing courts, in general

A63C 19/06

{for football (American-football dummies A63B 69/34)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Training appliances or apparatus for:

  • Association football (more commonly known as football or soccer); or
  • American football.
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

American-football dummies

A63B 69/34

Special rules of classification

Depending on whether it is used for Association or American football, this subgroup always needs to be complemented by, respectively with the following codes:

Association football (soccer)

A63B 2243/0025

American football

A63B 2243/007

{for skating}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Skates with multiple blades

A63C 1/36

Ice-skating or roller-skating rinks

A63C 19/10

{for ice-hockey}
Special rules of classification

Ice hockey pucks are classified in both A63B 67/14 and A63B 69/0026.

{for running, jogging or speed-walking (movable endless bands A63B 22/02)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Movable endless bands

A63B 22/02

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

The person using trunk supports resisting forward motion of user

A63B 2208/0261

{for mountaineering, e.g. climbing-walls, grip elements for climbing-walls}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Climbing poles, frames, or stages

A63B 9/00

{Apparatus generating random stimulus signals for reaction-time training involving a substantial physical effort}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices for projecting balls

A63B 69/40

Devices for testing reaction times

A61B 5/162

Reaction-time games

A63F 9/0096

{Means for physically limiting movements of body parts (A63B 23/0211 takes precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Restraining devices that are not worn on the body but are (externally) attached on the body from the outside. When the user moves away from the training spot, he/she will keep on him/her what is worn (A63B 69/0059) but what was attached on him/her (A63B 69/0057) will stay behind on the training spot.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Moving torso with immobilized lower limbs

A63B 23/0211

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Supports for anchoring force-resisters

A63B 21/16

Supports for anchoring force-resisters mounted on or against a wall

A63B 21/169

Attachment of exercising apparatus to the body of the user

A63B 21/4001

Means for physically limiting movements of body parts worn by the user

A63B 69/0059

Attachments on the body for golf, e.g. for measuring, aligning, restraining

A63B 69/3608

Movement of a golf club is limited with the purpose of guiding the swing

A63B 69/3621

Tactile feedback

A63B 2071/0655

{worn by the user}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Also, limiting movement between grip and body parts (apart from the hand).

Relationships with other classification places

When A63B 69/0059 is appropriate and the invention concerns a golf device, A63B 69/36 or any other appropriate subgroup referring to golf has to be allocated too.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Attachments of exercise devices to the body without movement restriction

A63B 21/4001

Attachments between the hand/hands and the golf club, either by directly attaching one or more hands to the club, or by attaching the hands to one another around the golf club (e.g. via a band or a sticking surface fixing the grip to the hand/glove of the user, or even indirectly blocking the relative movement between the hands and the grip)

A63B 69/3608

Tactile feedback

A63B 2071/0655

{Attachments on the trainee preventing falling}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Suspension devices for supporting the body in an upright walking orstanding position, e.g. harnesses

A61H 3/008

{for wind-surfing}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Sailing simulators (for teaching or training purposes)

G09B 9/066

{Means for releasably holding a ball in position prior to kicking, striking or the like (golf tees A63B 57/10)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Golf tees

A63B 57/10

{Suspending a ball on an upright stream of air or water}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Stationarily-arranged devices with pneumatic propelling means for projecting balls

A63B 69/409

Indoor games with playing bodies projected by compressed air

A63F 7/066

Water toys, floating toys or like buoyant toys

A63H 23/10

{Balls tethered to a line or cord (A63B 43/007 takes precedence; other games using tethered balls A63B 67/10; games using a bat or racket with a ball tethered thereto A63B 67/20)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Arrangements on balls for connecting lines or cords

A63B 43/007

Other games using tethered balls

A63B 67/10

Games using a bat or racket with a ball tethered thereto

A63B 67/20

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Tethered playing balls or other tethered playing bodies

A63F 2007/4087

Tethered playing balls or other tethered playing bodies supported on a tethering arm

A63F 2007/4093

Special rules of classification

Hollow rigid balls are classified in A63B 37/0098

Arrangements on balls for connecting lines or cords A63B 43/007 takes precedence.

{the line or cord being attached to the user (A63B 21/0608 takes precedence; punching balls attached to the user A63B 69/26)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Eccentric weights put into orbital motion by nutating movement of the user

A63B 21/0608

Punching balls attached to the user

A63B 69/26

{for surfing, i.e. without a sail; for skate or snow boarding}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Equipment or arrangements for generating waves, particularly adapted for surfing, waterskiing, or the like

B63B 34/70

Devices for producing waves in swimming pools

E04H 4/0006

{Ball rebound walls (with holes or in combination with nets A63B 63/00)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Targets or goals for ball games (walls with holes or in combination with nets)

A63B 63/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances

A63B 24/00

Backstops, cages, enclosures or the like, e.g. for spectator protection, for arresting balls

A63B 71/022

Indicating or scoring devices for games or players, or for other sports activities

A63B 71/06

Targets for projectiles other than balls

A63F 9/0204

Target indicating systems; Target-hit or score detecting systems

F41J 5/00

for fencing {, e.g. means for indicating hits}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Fencing foils, sabres or epees

F41B 13/02

Special rules of classification

Fencing masks are classified in A63B 69/02 and also in A63B 2071/105 and A63B 71/10.

simulating the movement of horses (toy animals for riding A63G 19/00)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Toy animals for riding

A63G 19/00

for rowing or sculling
Definition statement

This place covers:

Training for real rowing or sculling movement, not necessarily on a real boat.

Canoeing and kayaking also.

Relationships with other classification places

Canoes, kayaks or the like B63B 34/20.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Rowing machines for fitness

A63B 22/0076

with water-filled pools
Special rules of classification

This group includes any rowing training which takes place in a real boat.

Arrangements in swimming pools for teaching swimming {or for training}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Any kind of mechanical training equipment for swimming which is used when the user is actually swimming surrounded by water or any other liquid.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Swimming aids

A63B 31/00

Floating seats

A47C 15/006

Fluid mattresses, e.g. pneumatic mattresses, Liquid mattresses or mattresses with fluid-like particles

A47C 27/08

Body floating supports for relaxation

A61H 37/005

Toy boats; Floating toys; Other aquatic toy devices

A63H 23/00

Vessels or like floating structures for pleasure or sport

B63B 34/00

Rafts, i.e. free floating waterborne vessels, of shallow draft, with little or no freeboard, and having a platform or floor for supporting a user

B63B 35/58

Life-buoys, life-belts

B63C 9/08

{Devices for generating a current of water in swimming pools}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Wave-producers or the like in baths

A47K 3/10

Therapeutic baths with agitated or circulated water

A61H 33/0087

Equipment or arrangements for generating waves, particularly adapted for surfing, waterskiing, or the like

B63B 34/70

Producing waves in swimming pools

E04H 4/0006

Teaching frames for swimming {; Swimming boards}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Swimming aids

A63B 31/00

Floating seats

A47C 15/006

Fluid mattresses, e.g. pneumatic mattresses, Liquid mattresses or mattresses with fluid-like particles

A47C 27/08

Body floating supports for relaxation

A61H 37/005

Toy boats; Floating toys; Other aquatic toy devices

A63H 23/00

Body-boards, i.e. surfboards specially adapted for use by users in prone position; Planing members attachable to, or held by body-surfers

B63B 32/20

Other vessels or like floating structures for pleasure or sport

B63B 34/00

Rafts, i.e. free floating waterborne vessels, of shallow draft, with little or no freeboard, and having a platform or floor for supporting a user

B63B 35/58

Life-buoys, life-belts

B63C 9/08

for cycling {, i.e. arrangements on or for real bicycles}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Mechanical means for variation of the resistance

A63B 21/00058

Frictional force-resisters with surfaces rolling against each other without substantial slip

A63B 21/0125

Stationary bicycles, ergometers

A63B 22/0605

Means providing for a stabilised ride

B62H 1/10

Special rules of classification

To be complemented with the relevant subgroups of A63B 21/00, A63B 22/00, A63B 23/00. This group is also used for wheelchair training on rollers - such documents are additionally coded with A63B 2071/0018..

for skiing
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Devices enabling skis to be used whilst held in a particular configuration with respect to each other, e.g. for training purposes

A63C 5/16

Accessories for skiing or snowboarding (fittings on vehicles for carrying skis)

A63C 11/00

Slalom gate poles, posts or marking sticks for sport field

A63C 19/00

{for cross-country-skiing (A63B 23/0417, A63B 69/0022 take precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Exercising apparatus for the legs with guided foot supports moving parallel to the body-symmetrical-plane by translation

A63B 23/0417

Training devices for skating

A63B 69/0022

{for water-skiing}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Waterskis

B63B 32/30

Accessories, e.g. sticks for water skiing

B63B 32/30

Punching balls {, e.g. for boxing; Other devices for striking used during training of combat sports, e.g. bags}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Training devices subjected to strikes or blows by a person training in a combat sport including: punching bags, punching balls, pads held or attached to the human body, and striking dummies.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Golf tees

A63B 57/10

Means for releasably holding a ball in position; Balls constrained to move around a fixed point, e.g. by tethering

A63B 69/0073

Dummies, e.g. for boxing or American football

A63B 69/34

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Punching ball

Devices which move and return fast due to their low inertia when subject to strikes or blows; mainly designed to be hit at resonant frequency

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • Punching ball
  • Speed bag
{Anthropomorphic devices}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Striking devices having an anthropomorphic shape or resemblance.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group:

media184.png

media185.png

mounted on, or suspended from, a fixed support
Definition statement

This place covers:

Punching balls, punching bags or other striking devices mounted on or suspended from a stationary support during the striking activity. The support may be adjusted or repositioned when not in use and the training device, e.g. the ball or bag, may move when struck, but the overall structure remains in place during the exercise.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group:

A punching ball mounted on a fixed support. The height of the ball is adjustable but remains set once the punching exercise begins.

media186.png

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group:

A punching ball suspended from a fixed support. The height of the ball is adjustable but remains set once the punching exercise begins.

media187.png

mounted on, or suspended from, a movable support
Definition statement

This place covers:

Punching balls, punching bags or other striking devices mounted on or suspended from a support set in motion during the striking activity. The motion of the training device should be an added feature to enhance the training experience, with said motion imparted independent from the striking activity.

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group:

A punching target mounted on a movable support. The target is set in motion by a motor and drive shaft during the punching exercise, and a sensor detects movement by the user to alter the motion of the target.

media188.png

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group:

Punching bags mounted on a movable support. The carousel and track system supporting the punching bags are set in motion with a motor and produce unpredictable movements. Alternatively, the carousel and track system are designed to produce unpredictable movements without a motor in response to the punching force from the user.

media189.png

attached to the human body
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Other tethered balls being attached to the user

A63B 69/0086

with indicating devices
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Counting, e.g. counting periodical movements, revolutions or cycles, or including further data processing to determine distances or speed

A63B 2220/17

Force of an impact, e.g. blow or punch

A63B 2220/53

Sensors arranged on the exercise apparatus or sports implement

A63B 2220/833

{Fake or disarmed practise weapons, i.e. for mimicking combat situations in martial arts training}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Toy swords or similar toy weapons; Toy shields

A63H 33/009

{Tackling, blocking or grappling dummies, e.g.} boxing or {wrestling or American-} football dummies
Definition statement

This place covers:

Tackling, blocking or grappling dummies.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Hanging heavy punching bags

A63B 69/305

Manipulators

B25J

Special rules of classification

This subgroup should always be complemented with the appropriate code in A63B 2102/00, A63B 2243/00 or A63B 2244/00 relating to the specific sport or sports for which the dummy is used.

Boxing dummies used for punching or striking training are classified in A63B 69/20 and subgroups, e.g. A63B 69/215.

for golf
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mechanical aspects of training appliances or apparatus used when training golf, i.e. mechanical equipment which is not normally used during the game of golf.

Relationships with other classification places

A63B 69/36 and its subgroups deal with the mechanical features of training appliances or apparatus used when training golf. Some groups and subgroups in subclass A63B are used for additional information and may cause confusion:

  • A63B 24/00, which relates to electric or electronic controls for apparatuses classified in other groups and subgroups of A63B (not A63B 71/06).
  • A63B 71/06, which relates to different kinds of indicating devices for sports for apparatuses classified in other groups and subgroups of A63B.
  • A63B 2220/00, for measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity.

When the invention disclosed in a document does not lie in a mechanical sports device or the electronic controlling thereof with a mechanical effect on the device, it should not be classified in A63B (at least not as "invention information").

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Golf clubs

A63B 53/00

Bags and stands

A63B 55/00

Golf game accessories

A63B 57/00

Scoring devices

A63B 71/06

Measuring movement of entire body or parts thereof

A61B 5/11

Video games

A63F 13/00

Measuring of sport goods in general

G01B 5/0023

Measure arrangements characterised by the use of optical means

G01B 11/00

Systems for determining distance or velocity using ultrasonic, sonic, or infrasonic waves

G01S 11/14

Systems using reflection of acoustic waves

G01S 15/00

Systems using reflection of electromagnetic waves, velocity or trajectory

G01S 17/58

GPS – receivers – sporting applications

G01S 19/19

Input interaction (Gesture, VR, GUI)

G06F 3/01

Data acquisition and logging

G06F 17/40

Performance analysis

G06Q 10/0639

Analysis of motion

G06T 7/20

Recognition of whole body movements, e.g. for sport training

G06V 40/23

Simulators for teaching or training

G09B 9/00

Teaching repetitive work cycles; Sequence of movements; sport

G09B 19/0038

ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans relating to physical therapies or activities, e.g. physiotherapy, acupressure or exercising

G16H 20/30

Special rules of classification

Control must be classified in A63B 24/00.

The interface features must be classified in A63B 71/06.

The sensors must be classified in A63B 2220/00 or A63B 2230/00.

The position of the user must be classified in A63B 2208/00.

{Golf club selection aids informing player of his average or expected shot distance for each club}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices for measuring, verifying, correcting or customizing characteristics of golf-clubs, bats, rackets or the like

A63B 60/42

{Attachments on the body, e.g. for measuring, aligning, restraining (A63B 69/0059, A63B 69/3673 take precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Also attachments used between the hand/hands and the golf club, either by directly attaching one or more hands to the club, or by attaching the hands to one another around the golf club (e.g. via a band or a sticking surface fixing the grip to the hand/glove of the user, or even indirectly blocking the relative movement between the hands and the grip).

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Means for physically limiting movements of body parts worn by the user

A63B 69/0059

Foot inclining aids

A63B 69/3673

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Attachments of exercise devices to the body without movement restriction

A63B 21/4001

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the upper limbs of the user

A63B 21/4017

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the hand of the user

A63B 21/4019

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the wrist of the user

A63B 21/4021

Visual means not attached to the body for positioning the trainee's head or for detecting head movement, e.g. by parallax (for driving)

A63B 69/3629

Golf stance aids, i.e. means for positioning a golfer's feet

A63B 69/3667

Visual means not attached to the body for positioning the trainee's head or for detecting head movement, e.g. by parallax (for putting)

A63B 69/3682

Tactile feedback

A63B 2071/0655

Visual indication, e.g. Indicia (only visual (i.e. non mechanical) alignment devices)

A63B 2071/0694

{using electro-magnetic, magnetic or ultrasonic radiation emitted, reflected or interrupted by the golf club}
Definition statement

This place covers:

All types of training means using electro-magnetic, magnetic or ultrasonic radiation e.g. laser aiming, interruption of beams or lamps attached to golf club.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Optical or opto-electric sensors

A63B 2220/805

Powered illuminating means

A63B 2225/74

{Striking surfaces with impact indicating means, e.g. markers}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Means indicating the actual impact point, i.e. point of contact, with the ball.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Means indicating the preferred impact point for normal golf clubs, i.e. visual indicators for aligning the golf club

A63B 53/0441

Visual indicators for training purposes for indicating the preferred impact point or aligning the golf club

A63B 69/3632

Visual indicators for putting training purposes for indicating the preferred impact point or aligning the putter

A63B 69/3685

Special rules of classification

Note: the means indicate the actual impact point, i.e. point of contact, with the ball; means indicating the preferred impact point for normal golf clubs should be coded in A63B 53/0441, and for training purposes in A63B 69/3632 or A63B 69/3685.

{Contacting or non-contacting mechanical means for guiding the swing}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Contacting and non-contacting mechanical (i.e. not only visual) means for guiding the swing. "Non-contacting mechanical means" means that there would be contact only if the movement is executed wrongly. Thus, it is valid for any type of device that the club contacts during the swing OR would contact if used wrongly (within the normal limits of a swing).

The following figure that shows an example of non-contacting means.

media178.png

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Attachments on the body, e.g. for measuring, aligning, restraining

A63B 69/3608

Visual means not attached to the body for positioning the trainee's head or for detecting head movement, e.g. by parallax (for driving)

A63B 69/3629

Visual means not attached to the body for positioning the trainee's head or for detecting head movement, e.g. by parallax (for putting)

A63B 69/3682

Visual indication (if the means for guiding the swing are only of a visual nature, e.g. line on a mat that the user should try to follow)

A63B 2071/0694

{Mechanical guides guiding the club head end during the complete swing, e.g. rails}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mechanical guides which guide the club head end during the complete (or almost complete) swing; this also can be achieved by guiding any part of the golf club, i.e. not necessarily the club head end.

{with a flexible member fixed on the club and rotating around a fixed supporting point (clubs only for gymnastics or muscular training A63B 15/00)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Clubs for gymnastics or the like, e.g. for swinging exercises

A63B 15/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Resilient force resistors of the extension element type

A63B 21/055

Elastic ropes or bands

A63B 21/0552

User-manipulated weights

A63B 21/06

{with arm or rod fixed on the club and rotating around a fixed supporting point}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Linked arms/rods/bars.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Mechanical guide guiding the club head end during the complete swing with a flexible member fixed on the club and rotating around a fixed supporting point

A63B 69/36212

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Attachments on the body, e.g. for measuring, aligning, restraining

A63B 69/3608

Means associated with the ball for indicating or measuring, e.g. speed, direction

A63B 69/3658

Mats for golf practice, e.g. mats having a simulated turf, a practice tee or a green area

A63B 69/3661

Golf stance aids, e.g. means for positioning a golfer's feet

A63B 69/3667

Golf courses; Golf practising terrains having a plurality of driving areas, fairways, greens

A63B 69/3691

{Visual means not attached to the body for aligning, positioning the trainee's head or for detecting head movement, e.g. by parallax}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Means that help to put the head of the user in a position in space for driving.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Golf club heads with visual indicators for aligning the golf club

A63B 53/0441

Contacting or non-contacting means for guiding the swing

A63B 69/3621

Drivers or attachments on drivers, e.g. for measuring, aligning

A63B 69/3632

Putters or attachments on putters, e.g. for measuring, aligning

A63B 69/3685

Visual indication for aligning the eyes or body with the target line

A63B 2071/0694

{Clubs or attachments on clubs, e.g. for measuring, aligning (A63B 69/3614 takes precedence; clubs for swinging exercises in general A63B 15/00)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Clubs, weighted hand bars for swinging exercises not related to golf technique

A63B 15/00

Golf clubs not used for training with visual indicators for aligning the club

A63B 53/0441

Bats with a ball tethered thereto

A63B 67/20

Golf training apparatus using electro-magnetic, magnetic or ultrasonic radiation emitted, reflected or interrupted by the golf club

A63B 69/3614

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the upper limbs of the user

A63B 21/4017

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the hand of the user

A63B 21/4019

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the wrist of the user

A63B 21/4021

Golf clubs not used for training with visual indicators for aligning the club

A63B 53/0441

Handles or grips for golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like

A63B 60/06

Weighted handles for golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like

A63B 60/24

Bats with a ball tethered thereto

A63B 67/20

{with sound-emitting source}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Means for indicating or measuring the pressure on the grip

A63B 2060/464

{Normal golf clubs with directly attached weights}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Clubs, weighted hand bars for swinging exercises not related to golf technique

A63B 15/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

User-manipulated weights; fluids, e.g. water

A63B 21/0602

Fluid-like particles, e.g. gun shot, sand

A63B 21/0603

{Inclined platforms for practising drives from slopes}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special golf games, e.g. miniature golf, e.g. golf putting games played on putting tracks; putting practice apparatus having an elongated platform as a putting track

A63B 67/02

Mats for golf practice, e.g. mats having a simulated turf, a practice tee or a green area

A63B 69/3661

Golf courses and golf practising terrains having a plurality of driving areas, fairways, greens.

A63B 69/3691

{Balls, ball substitutes, or attachments on balls therefor}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Short-distance or low-velocity balls for training, or for playing on a reduced area

A63B 2043/001

{Mats for golf practice, e.g. mats having a simulated turf, a practice tee or a green area}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special golf games, e.g. miniature golf, e.g. golf putting games played on putting tracks; putting practice apparatus having an elongated platform as a putting track

A63B 67/02

Inclined platforms for practising drives from slopes

A63B 69/3652

Golf courses and golf practising terrains having a plurality of driving areas, fairways, greens.

A63B 69/3691

Surfaces simulating grass

E01C 13/08

{for putting (A63B 69/3608, A63B 69/3661, A63B 69/3667 and A63B 69/3697 take precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Attachments on the body, e.g. for measuring, aligning, restraining

A63B 69/3608

Mats for golf practice, e.g. mats having a simulated turf, a practice tee or a green area

A63B 69/3661

Golf stance aids, e.g. means for positioning a golfer's feet

A63B 69/3667

Golf courses with putting taking place on a green other than the target green

A63B 69/3697

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Putting tracks

A63B 67/02

Golf courses; Golf practising terrains having a plurality of driving areas, fairways, greens

A63B 69/3691

{Visual means not attached to the body for aligning, positioning the trainee's head or for detecting head movement, e.g. by parallax}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Means that help to put the head of the user in a position in space for putting.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Golf club heads with visual indicators for aligning the golf club

A63B 53/0441

Drivers or attachments on drivers, e.g. for measuring, aligning

A63B 69/3632

Putters or attachments on putters e.g. for measuring, aligning

A63B 69/3685

Visual indication for aligning the eyes or body with the target line

A63B 2071/0694

{Putters or attachments on putters, e.g. for measuring, aligning (A63B 69/3614 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Golf training apparatus using electro-magnetic, magnetic or ultrasonic radiation emitted, reflected or interrupted by the golf club

A63B 69/3614

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the upper limbs of the user

A63B 21/4017

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the hand of the user

A63B 21/4019

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the wrist of the user

A63B 21/4021

Handles or grips for golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like

A63B 60/06

Weighted handles for golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like

A63B 60/24

{Golf courses; Golf practising terrains having a plurality of driving areas, fairways, greens (special golf games, e.g. miniature golf, A63B 67/02; mats for simulating golf greens A63B 69/3661)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Special golf games, e.g. miniature golf, golf putting games played on putting tracks; putting practice apparatus having an elongated platform as a putting track

A63B 67/02

Mats for golf practice, e.g. mats having a simulated turf, a practice tee or a green area

A63B 69/3661

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Inclined platforms for practising drives from slopes

A63B 69/3652

Pavings or foundations specially adapted for playgrounds or sports grounds; Drainage, irrigation or heating of sports grounds

E01C 13/00

for tennis {(A63B 61/006, A63B 69/0073 and A63B 69/0097 take precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Accessories for training purposes mounted on the net

A63B 61/006

Means for releasably holding a ball in position; balls constrained to move around a fixed point, e.g. by tethering

A63B 69/0073

Ball rebound walls

A63B 69/0097

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices measuring hand characteristics to determine correct grip size

A63B 2060/462

Means for indicating or measuring the pressure on the grip

A63B 2060/464

Special rules of classification

control must be classified in A63B 24/00.

The interface features must be classified in A63B 71/06.

The sensors must be classified in A63B 2220/00 or A63B 2230/00.

The position of the user must be classified in A63B 2208/00.

Stationarily-arranged devices for projecting balls {or other bodies} ({golf cups with ball ejector means A63B 57/405;} traps for clay-pigeon targets F41J 9/18)
Definition statement

This place covers:

"Stationarily" also includes moving robots which are stationary when projecting balls.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Golf cups with ball ejector means

A63B 57/405

Traps for clay-pigeon targets

F41J 9/18

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Ball dispensers having means preventing bridge formation during dispensing

A63B 2047/004

Targets with means for returning balls by gravity or mechanically

A63B 63/00

Implements for throwing

A63B 65/00

Dog ball launchers

A01K 15/025

Apparatus for projecting balls for indoor games

A63F 7/2409

Sling weapons

F41B 3/00

Magazines for projected targets

F41J 9/30

Means for obviating the anticipation of the flight path for projected targets

F41J 9/32

{with rotating discs, wheels or pulleys gripping and propelling the balls or bodies by friction}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Friction-wheel operated launchers

F41B 4/00

{with spring-loaded propelling means}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Catapults

F41B 3/02

Traps or throwing-apparatus for clay-pigeon or clay-disc targets with spring-operated throwing arm

F41J 9/20

Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B 1/00 - A63B 69/00 (starting appliances A63K 3/02)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B 1/00 - A63B 69/0015.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Race starting appliances

A63K 3/02

{for handicapped persons}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Games and apparatus for handicapped persons.

Special rules of classification

Wheelchair training on rollers is classified in A63B 69/16 and additionally in A63B 2071/0018.

{Accessories for stowing, putting away or transporting exercise apparatus or sports equipment (A63B 47/00, A63B 55/00, A63B 60/56 take precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Accessories for stowing, putting away or transporting exercise apparatus or sports equipment.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Devices for handling, treating or holding balls

A63B 47/00

Bags and stands for golf clubs

A63B 55/00

Devices for protection, storage or transport for golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like

A63B 60/56

Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Devices for handling, treating or holding balls

A63B 57/20

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Space saving in sport equipment

A63B 2210/00

Sport bags

A45C 2003/007

Hand-propelled vehicles for transporting sport articles

B62B 2202/40

{specially adapted for games played with rackets or bats (A63B 60/56 takes precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Accessories for stowing, putting away or transporting exercise apparatus or sports equipment, specially adapted for games played with rackets or bats.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Devices for protection, storage or transport for golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like

A63B 60/56

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Devices for storing or displaying elongated objects such as fishing rods, guns etc.

A47B 81/005

{Features for injury prevention on an apparatus, e.g. shock absorbers (mats or the like for absorbing shocks for jumping A63B 6/00)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Mats or the like for absorbing shocks for jumping

A63B 6/00

{Stopping the operation of the apparatus}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Means preventing unauthorised use, e.g. by lowering a tennis net

A63B 2225/72

{Protective housings covering the working parts of the apparatus}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Protective housings covering the working parts of the apparatus.

for large-room or outdoor sporting games
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Design or layout of playing courts, rinks, bowling greens or areas for water-skiing

A63C 19/00

Pavings or foundations specially adapted for playgrounds or sports grounds; Drainage, irrigation or heating of sports grounds

E01C 13/00

Searchlights, i.e. outdoor lighting device producing powerful beam of parallel rays, e.g. for military or attraction purposes

F21S 8/003

{Stays or guy-ropes}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Stays or guy-ropes for masts

E04H 12/20

Stays or guy-ropes for tents

E04H 15/34

{Backstops, cages, enclosures or the like, e.g. for spectator protection, for arresting balls}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Targets or goals for ball games

A63B 63/00

Training appliances for cricket

A63B 69/0015

Ball rebound walls

A63B 69/0097

Fences; Nets; Barriers

A63C 2019/085

Removable protective covers for courts, rinks, or game pitches or the like

A63C 19/12

Fencing, e.g. fences, enclosures, corrals

E04H 17/00

{Supports, e.g. poles}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Posts for tennis or like games, e.g. volley-ball

A63B 61/02

Forming a target or goal by fixing net or target area to garage doorway or garage parts

A63B 2063/006

Fixation by suction cups

A63B 2225/055

Pavings or foundations specially adapted for playgrounds or sports grounds; Drainage, irrigation or heating of sports grounds

E01C 13/00

{stabilised by weight}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Sockets filled with water, sand or the like

E04H 12/2246

{Floor sockets for removable poles}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Sockets for poles in general

E04H 12/22

for small-room or indoor sporting games
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Design or layout of playing courts, rinks, bowling greens or areas for water-skiing

A63C 19/00

Indicating or scoring devices for games or players {, or for other sports activities}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Scoring devices for sports activities

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For fencing

A63B 69/02

Details of notification to user or patient for diagnostic purposes

A61B 5/74

For card games

A63F 1/18

For arrow or dart games

F41J 3/02

{Decision makers and devices using detection means facilitating arbitration}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Devices used in petanque for measuring distance or difference in distance

A63B 67/066

Line foul detectors for bowling

A63D 1/06

Decision makers for riding sports

A63K 3/00

Target indicating system, score detecting system for guns

F41J 5/00

{Means for conducting or scheduling competition, league, tournaments or rankings}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Competitions, virtual races

A63B 24/0084

{Displays, user interfaces and indicating devices, specially adapted for sport equipment, e.g. display mounted on treadmills}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

PDA

G06F 1/1626

Signal devices with lights

G08B 5/36

{Visual, audio or audio-visual systems for entertaining, instructing or motivating the user}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

MP3-player associated to further apparatuses

G11B 31/00

{Emitting sound, noise or music}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Rhythm indicators for respiratory exercises

A63B 23/185

Golf clubs for training with sound emitting source

A63B 69/3635

{when used improperly, e.g. by giving a warning}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

rhythm indicators

A63B 23/185

for respiratory exercises

A63B 23/185

in golf clubs for training

A63B 69/3635

Visual, audio or audio-visual systems for entertaining, instructing or motivating the user

A63B 71/0622

{with display speed of moving landscape controlled by the user's performance}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

The load of the exercise apparatus being controlled in synchronism with visualising systems, e.g. hill slope

A63B 2024/009

{Tactile feedback}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the upper limbs of the user

A63B 21/4017

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the hand of the user

A63B 21/4019

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the wrist of the user

A63B 21/4021

Means for physically limiting movements of body parts

A63B 69/0057

Means for physically limiting movements of body parts worn by the user

A63B 69/0059

Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about with tactile perception

A61H 2003/063

{arranged on the user}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Head mounted display

G02B 27/017

Wearable computers

G06F 1/163

Transceiver s arranged on the body

H04B 1/385

{worn on the wrist, e.g. wrist bands}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Time pieces combined with an external data detector

G04G 21/02

for measuring physiological data

G04G 21/025

{Score-keepers or score display devices}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Wrist worn watch type

G04G 9/0064

{using non-electronic means}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Computing aids in which the computing members form at least part of the displayed result and manipulated directly by hand, e.g. abacus, pocket adding device

G06C 1/00

{Timers, rhythm indicators or pacing apparatus using electric or electronic means}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

For respiratory exercises

A63B 23/185

Pedometers

G01C 22/006

Sport timing

G07C 1/22

Automatically producing a series of tones

G10H 1/26

Regulating music

G10H 1/40

Synonyms and Keywords

cadence = strokes, strides etc per second.

{Visual indication, e.g. Indicia}
Relationships with other classification places

This code typically is used with multiple classifications, exemplified as follows.

The following image shows an example of a typical document for training a golf swing (thus, classified in A63B 69/3623) and which is further classified in A63B 2071/0694 because of the alignment rods that give the golfer the visual indication of the actual target line.

media181.png

The following image shows an example of use of A63B 2071/0694 for classifying the pose markings of a mat for learning yoga.

media182.jpg

The next image shows use of A63B 2071/0694 for classifying the reference markings (95) on the crown of a golf club head.

media183.png

References
References out of a residual place

Examples of places in relation to which this place is residual:

Golf club heads with visual indicators for aligning the golf club

A63B 53/0441

Golf tees with direction indicators

A63B 57/19

Attachments on the body, e.g. for measuring, aligning, restraining

A63B 69/3608

Visual means not attached to the body for positioning the trainee's head or for detecting head movement, e.g. by parallax (for driving)

A63B 69/3629

Drivers or attachments on drivers, e.g. for measuring, aligning

A63B 69/3632

Visual means not attached to the body for positioning the trainee's head or for detecting head movement, e.g. by parallax (for putting)

A63B 69/3682

Putters or attachments on putters e.g. for measuring, aligning

A63B 69/3685

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Advertising on sports articles, e.g. golf clubs

G09F 23/0066

Body-protectors for players or sportsmen {, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions} (protective clothing or garments for sporting purposes A41D 13/00)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Protective clothing or garments for sporting purposes

A41D 13/00

{fluid-filled, e.g. air-filled}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Inflatable

A63B 2225/62

{using bubble wrap}
Special rules of classification

Location of protection should be classified in A63B 71/08.

{Mouth or teeth protectors (A63B 71/081 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Fluid-filled, e.g. air-filled body protectors

A63B 71/081

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Protective face masks

A41D 13/00

Lip or mouth protectors for dentistry

A61C 5/90

{Mouth inserted protectors with breathing holes}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mouth inserted protectors with breathing holes.

Also for holes (i.e. airway opening) in the front portion of the mouthguard due to the manufacturing and/or customizing process.

{Mouth inserted protectors with tether or strap}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Mouth inserted protectors with tether or strap, e.g. to be fixed to a helmet.

for the head ({A63B 71/081 takes precedence } ; in the form of caps or hats A42B 1/08; helmets A42B 3/00)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Helmets for swimming or water polo

A63B 33/00

Fluid-filled, e.g. air-filled, body-protectors for players or sportsmen

A63B 71/081

Head protectors in the form of caps or hats

A42B 1/08

Helmets

A42B 3/00

Face guards for ice hockey

A42B 3/20

for the ears

A61F 11/06

Special rules of classification

Fencing masks are also classified in A63B 2071/105 and A63B 69/02.

{Fencing mask}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Fencing mask, also for masks used in kendo.

Special rules of classification

These documents should also be classified in A63B 71/10 and A63B 69/02.

for the body or the legs {, e.g. for the shoulders (A63B 71/081 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Fluid-filled, e.g. air-filled, body-protectors for players or sportsmen

A63B 71/081

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

When the protector for sporting purposes is integrated in garment/apparel/clothing

A41D 13/00

{for the genital area}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Crotch reinforcement

A41D 1/088

Suspensory bandages

A61F 5/40

{for the legs, e.g. thighs, knees, ankles, feet}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Hosiery with pockets

A41B 11/006

Reinforcements for hosiery

A41B 11/02

Bandages, e.g. orthesis-like supports or braces

A61F 5/0102

Bandages or dressings for strengthening joints

A61F 13/06

{for the shin, e.g. shin guards}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Hosiery with pockets

A41B 11/006

Reinforcements for hosiery

A41B 11/02

{for the neck}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Protectors for the neck as a part of a helmet

A42B

for the hands, e.g. baseball, boxing or golfing gloves (archer's finger tabs F41B 5/1473)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Archer's finger tabs

F41B 5/1473

{in the form of gloves}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Wrist guards and gloves for weight lifting.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Swimming gloves

A63B 31/02

With adhesive type surfaces, e.g. hook and loop-type fastener

A63B 2209/10

Hand protectors

A41D 13/081

Gloves in general

A41D 19/00

Brush bodies shaped as gloves or finger-stalls

A46B 5/04

Gloves for washing the body

A47K 7/02

Gloves for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings

A47L 13/18

Operating gloves

A61B 42/10

Gloves for glove-boxes

B25J 21/02

Special rules of classification

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the upper limbs of the user

A63B 21/4017

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the hand of the user

A63B 21/4019

Attachments of exercising apparatus to the wrist of the user

A63B 21/4021

User-manipulated weights

A63B 21/06

{Baseball or hockey gloves}
Definition statement

This place covers:

also gloves for CRICKET batsmen, or LACROSSE.

{Gloves for bowling and other ball games}
Definition statement

This place covers:

also gloves for FOOTBALL (SOCCER) goal keepers.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Football (i.e. soccer)

A63B 2243/0025

Hand protectors especially for fingers

A41D 13/087

Protective gloves with protection against crushing

A41D 19/01517

Protective gloves absorbing shocks or vibrations

A41D 19/01523

Protective gloves including rigid elements

A41D 19/01588

Special rules of classification

Multiple entry classification in different classes is often used, i.e. documents are classified in the applicable groups and/or subgroups of two different sub-classes: A41D 19/00 (maybe also A41D 13/08) and A63B 71/148.

For example:

media136.png

This document (WO 2007/103985) is classified as follows (multiple entry classification in different classes):A41D 19/01588 ; A63B 71/148 ; A63B 2243/0025

Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity {; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like}
Special rules of classification

This group and its corresponding subgroups only are used when the relevant sport/s is/are not unambiguously clear from any other of the symbols allocated.

Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Measuring physiological parameters of the user

A63B 2230/00

Measuring physiological parameters in the context of medical care

A61M 2230/00

Squatting
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sitting on the heels.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Squat exercises

A63B 2023/0411

with stretched legs, like on a bed
Definition statement

This place covers:

Recumbent.

Hanging
Definition statement

This place covers:

The person hanging upside-down or in an inverted position.

upright
Definition statement

This place covers:

i.e. in the normal body position for standing, with head at top and feet at bottom.

on hands and feet
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Exercising apparatus for push-ups in horizontal position

A63B 23/1236

with adhesive type surfaces, i.e. hook and loop-type fastener
Definition statement

This place covers:

Any kind of adhesive surface in the sport equipment apparatus, e.g. low-tack pressure sensitive adhesives, not only for hook-and loop type of fastener.

incorporated in chairs
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Chairs with exercising means

A47C 9/002

incorporated in beds, sofas
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Attached to beds e.g. hospital beds during revalidation

A63B 21/1672

Size reducing arrangements for stowing or transport
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Rackets with easily dismountable parts

A63B 49/035

Accessories for stowing

A63B 71/0036

Incorporated in furniture

A63B 2210/00

Inflatable

A63B 2225/62

Foldable camping beds

A47C 17/70

foldable beds

A47C 19/12

Size reducing arrangements for physical therapy

A61H 2201/0161

Foldable elastic frame members automatically resuming their expanded state when released
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Flexible frames for tents

E04H 15/40

with electrotherapy
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Devices using electric currents for producing or ending sleep or stupor

A61M 2021/0072

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Electrotherapy

A61N 1/00

with respiratory gas delivering means, e.g. O2
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Medical treatment rooms

A61G 10/00

under hypoxy conditions, i.e. oxygen supply subnormal
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Medical treatment rooms

A61G 10/00

Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
Definition statement

This place covers:

The purpose of the measurement should take precedence over the measuring method or device.

Relationships with other classification places

Measuring of sport goods G01B 5/0023.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Measuring torque, work, mechanical power, or mechanical efficiency in general

G01L 3/00

Positions
Special rules of classification

Not used and not for distance or speed or acceleration determination.

Angular positions
Definition statement

This place covers:

Also for indicating the direction of e.g. a flight path of a ball, the orientation of a player etc.

Counting, e.g. counting periodical movements, revolutions or cycles, or including further data processing to determine distances or speed
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Frequency

A63B 2220/64

Cycle computers

G01C 22/002

Angular speed
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Cycle computers

G01C 22/002

Acceleration
Special rules of classification

Not for force or torque measurement.

Force related parameters
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Measuring torque, work, mechanical power, or mechanical efficiency in general

G01L 3/00

Special rules of classification

This code not used; use subgroups.

Torque
Definition statement

This place covers:

Also for deformation, flexion, deflection, torsion.

Relationships with other classification places

Measuring torque, mechanical power or mechanical efficiency in general G01L 3/00.

Pressure
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Measuring pressure on grips

A63B 2060/464

Atmospheric pressure

A63B 2220/74

Measurement of force related parameters by electric or magnetic means
Relationships with other classification places

Measuring torque, Mechanical power or mechanical efficiency in general G01L 3/00.

Time or time measurement used for time reference, time stamp, master time or clock signal
Definition statement

This place covers:

Used for time reference, time stamp, master time or clock signal.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Reaction time

A63B 69/0053

Registering, indicating or recording the time of events or elapsed time in connection with sports or games

G07C 1/22

Frequency, e.g. of vibration oscillation
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Resonance frequency related properties of bats or rackets

A63B 60/002

Temperature
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Temperature of the user

A63B 2230/50

Special sensors, transducers or devices therefor
Definition statement

This place covers:

Only special sensors for, or specific aspects related to a sport implement.

Contact switches
Definition statement

This place covers:

Examples: shock sensors, vibration detectors for detecting an event (where the magnitude of shock or vibration is not important).

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Motion sensors
Definition statement

This place covers:

Motion sensors in general where the motion parameter is not specifically indicated, i.e. any movement.

Sensors arranged on the exercise apparatus or sports implement
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Cycle computers

G01C 22/002

Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
Definition statement

This place covers:

Sports OR exercising equipment.

Special aerodynamic features, e.g. airfoil shapes, wings or air passages
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Bats, rackets or the like having special surfaces reducing air resistance; details of the surface of the bats, rackets or the like, e.g. dimpled

A63B 60/006

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Bats with through holes

A63B 60/50

Testing, calibrating or measuring of equipment
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Measuring or verifying ball characteristics

A63B 47/008

Measuring or verifying club, bat or racket characteristics

A63B 60/42

with suction cups
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Suction cups used as force resisting device

A63B 21/0089

with writing point
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Golf tees with writing means

A63B 57/18

Height
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Telescopic systems with locking in discrete positions

F16B 7/105

Multi-station exercising machines
Definition statement

This place covers:

e.g. radially extending from a central linking element.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Compound apparatus for fitness training: A63B 23/03558 takes precedence

with identification means that can be read by electronic means
Definition statement

This place covers:

e.g. a smart card.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Identification of a person

A61B 5/117

Record carriers for use with machines

G06K 19/00

Individual entry or exit registers

G07C 9/00

Cards for payment

G07F 7/00

with means for remote communication, e.g. internet or the like
Definition statement

This place covers:

networking.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

with wireless data transmission

A63B 2225/50

PDA

G06F 1/1626

digital computing special functions

G06F 17/00

advertising

G09F 23/00

Floating
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Exercising apparatus comprising buoyant volumes to be submerged

A63B 21/0606

Inflatable apparatus

A63B 2225/62

Inflatable
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Fluid filled, e.g. air-filled body protectors

A63B 71/081

Means preventing unauthorised use, e.g. by lowering a tennis net
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Stopping the operation of the apparatus

A63B 2071/0081

Measuring physiological parameters of the user
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Measuring correct grip size

A63B 2060/462

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Game controllers involving biosensors worn by the player, e.g. for measuring heart beat, limb activity

A63F 2300/1012

blood pressure (A63B 2230/04 takes precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Heartbeat characteristics, e.g. E.G.C., blood pressure modulations

A63B 2230/04

temperature
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Measuring temperature

A63B 2220/72

calorie expenditure
Definition statement

This place covers:

This code is used even where the calorie consumption is calculated from other measurements, rather than directly measured.

Also indicated as MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task).

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Computing aids in which the computing members form at least part of the displayed result and manipulated directly by hand, e.g. abacus, pocket adding device

G06C 1/00

Specific ball sports not provided for in A63B 2102/00 - A63B 2102/38
Special rules of classification

This group and its corresponding subgroups are only used when the relevant sport/s is/are not unambiguously clear from any other of the symbols allocated.

Football
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

American football

A63B 2243/007

Special rules of classification

This group is intended for the game of soccer

Sports without balls
Special rules of classification

The corresponding subgroups of this subgroup are only used when the relevant sport/s is/are not unambiguously clear from any other of the symbols allocated.

hurdling
Definition statement

This place covers:

Running and jumping over an obstacle at speed.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Hurdles or the like and athletic hurdles

A63K 3/04, A63K 3/043

Road signs or traffic signals in the form of a three-dimensional body

E01F 9/654

Combat sports
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Rugby, American football

A63B 2243/0066

Boxing
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Boxing rings

A63C 19/005

Dancing
Definition statement

This place covers:

All types of dancing, including ballet.

Pole dancing
Definition statement

This place covers:

Rigid poles and also swaying rods.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Climbing poles

A63B 9/00

Supports for anchoring force resistors between horizontal surfaces, e.g. floor and ceiling

A63B 21/1681