Universal stringing machine for sports racquets

Abstract

A universal stringing machine has a pair of risers, having oppositely facing, V-shape bearing members for engaging opposed inside surfaces of a racquet frame. Preferably, each riser has a pair, and most preferably three, laterally spaced bearing members, in which each member can pivot between a first, e.g., up, position, for engaging the racquet, and a second, e.g., down, position, in which such member will be out of the way. Also, the two outside V-shaped bearing members are laterally adjustable toward and away from one another. In this manner, either the center bearing member, or the outside members, can be chosen to mount the racquet, depending upon racquet type, and also the distance between the outside bearing members can be adjusted so that the bearing members do not interfere with the strings. Preferably, the V-shaped engagement surface of the bearing members is covered with a plastic or elastomeric sleeve or cover, and can swivel about an axis perpendicular to the strings. Alternatively, retaining pads are swivel-mounted on the two 'V' surfaces of the bearing member, to act as the contacts with the racquet frame. The V-configuration of the bearing surface acts to self-level non-constant height racquet frames, and also contacts the frame near the top and bottom, rather than in the middle of the span, to impart less stress.