Apparatus for and method of refurbishing a lacrosse ball

Abstract

This invention relates to an apparatus and method for refurbishing lacrosse balls by using a fast, convenient, automated, entertaining, energy efficient, portable, and modular machine/method of removing a thin layer of rubber from the surface of a used lacrosse ball, by applying even pressure and random rotation of abrasive, one to four cups or rings, utilizing a combination of gravity and/or force of the cups against the surface of the ball, and the introduction of a solvent at various speeds, volume, and concentration, during and after the removal of a thin layer of rubber, to maximize the restoration of the rubber surface.

We claim:  
     
         1 . A lacrosse ball refurbishing mechanism comprising:
 An enclosure which enables leveraging gravity to accomplish the functions of the mechanism   One or more prongs which enable the application of rotating modular, replaceable, abrasive cups against a lacrosse ball, the attachment of motors on the prongs so that gravity may create force against the lacrosse balls   The attachment of hinges on the prongs to adjust the application of the rotating abrasive cups against the ball at different angles   The attachment of hinges or levers on the prongs to adjust the application of the rotating abrasive cups against the ball on one end and a static concave container on the other end.   The introduction of a solvent or other liquid into the process   The application of liquid to the ball while the abrasive cups rotate to aid in the removal of the thin layer of rubber   Treatment of the resurfaced rubber with preferably an organic solvent or an inorganic chemical   The introduction of liquid from a point above the ball using gravity, varying rates, and varying volumes, to enhance the surface of the rubber.   An automated way to turn the liquid application on while the abrasive cups are rotating and to stop the flow if the machine is turned off   
     
     
         2 . Apparatus according to  claim 1 , further comprising a fully automated method of refurbishing lacrosse balls using a vending machine that eliminates the need for human labor while providing entertainment value to the customer.
 An automated way to receive balls and feed them into a assembly line for refurbishment.   An automated way to insert the old ball in between the rotating abrasive cup on one end and another rotating abrasive cup or a static abrasive container at the other end.   An automated way to release the ball from the refurbishing cups, rinse the outer surface, and return the ball to an accessible location outside of the vending encasement.