Device Configured To Enable Scorekeeping For Activities Including Bat And/Or Racquet-Based Sports

Abstract

This invention relates to a device configured to enable scorekeeping during a competitive activity. The device includes a scoring unit with a display screen. One or more physical inputs are provided to received input signals indicative of a change to the score. A logic unit configured to modify data displayed on the display screen based on: (i) signals from the one or more physical units; and (ii) predefined scoring logic. A mounting unit having a primary aperture configured to facilitate secure mounting of the mounting member to an object, a secondary aperture configured to receive the scoring unit.

We claim: 
     
         1 . A device configured to enable scorekeeping, the device comprising:
 a scoring unit mounted in a rigid housing, wherein the scoring unit includes:
 a display screen; 
 one or more physical inputs; and 
 a logic unit that is configured to modify data displayed on the display screen based on: (i) signals from the one or more physical units; and (ii) predefined scoring logic; 
   a mounting unit formed of a resilient material, the mounting unit being formed to define:
 a primary aperture, wherein the primary aperture extends longitudinally through the mounting unit thereby to define a passage of substantially circular cross section, the primary aperture being configured to receive an elongate member of substantially circular cross section and a cross-sectional diameter exceeding the diameter of the passage by stretching of the resilient material, thereby to securely mount the mounting member to the elongate member, and 
 a secondary aperture, wherein the secondary aperture is configured to receive the rigid housing by stretching of the resilient material about the secondary aperture, and securely contain the logic unit. 
   
     
     
         2 . A device according to  claim 1 , wherein the mounting unit is formed of silicone. 
     
     
         3 . A device according to  claim 1 , wherein the elongate member is a handle. 
     
     
         4 . A device according to  claim 3 , wherein the handle is a racquet handle. 
     
     
         5 . A device according to  claim 4 , wherein the racquet handle is a tennis racquet handle. 
     
     
         6 . A device according to  claim 1 , wherein the predefined scoring logic configures the logic unit to, in response to score increment messages, increment a score display on the display screen based on defined rules. 
     
     
         7 . A device according to  claim 6 , wherein the score display includes multiple tiered counters. 
     
     
         8 . A device according to  claim 7 , wherein the multiple tiered counters are for sets, games, and points. 
     
     
         9 . A device according to  claim 7 , wherein the defined rules cause incrementing of a higher-tier counter in response to defined conditions at a lower-tier counter. 
     
     
         10 . A device according to  claim 8 , wherein the defined rules are configured for tennis scoring.