Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080234074 | Basketball backboard target - A static aiming target for perfecting basketball bank shots appears to move horizontally and vertically along a backboard as a player moves back and forth across the court and towards and away from the backboard. This apparent movement of the aiming target is produced by visual aiming regions which allow for predetermined viewing of portions of the aiming target as a function of a player's position on the court. In each case, a player shoots for the aiming target in order to complete a proper bank shot. | 09-25-2008 |
20080242452 | DEVICE FOR TEACHING A BASEBALL PITCHER - A device for teaching a baseball or softball pitcher includes a storage unit for holding a pre-marked tape measure, a pitching rubber, and a home plate along with fastening devices for securing the pitching rubber and home plate in their desired position. | 10-02-2008 |
20080305893 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPROVING A BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL REACTION TIMING - A method and an apparatus for improving the reaction timing of an individual to the action of an individual or machine. When used in sports and specifically for baseball hitting reaction timing, the Opposing Pitcher's ball speed and release point distance is measured. The batting practice pitcher's or pitching machine's ball speed is measured. By use of the TIME RIGHT™ CONVERSION CHARTS, the batting practice pitcher or pitching machine is positioned at a pitcher's mat and the hitter is positioned at a hitter's mat. The hitter's mat is positioned proximal at least one batter's box. A movable home plate is positioned on the hitter's mat. The hitter and the pitcher are positioned on the respective hitter's mat and pitcher's mat by determination, via the conversion charts, of the respective distances which will replicate the ball speed and the release point distance of an opposing pitcher. | 12-11-2008 |
20080305894 | ROTATING PLATFORM ASSEMBLY FOR PITCHING MACHINES - A pivoting frame assembly for use with a pitching machine. The pitching machine for pitching balls. The pivoting frame assembly for supporting the pitching machine above a ground surface. The pivoting frame assembly having a first portion for supporting the pitching machine and a second portion configured for contacting a ground surface, these first and second portions pivotally connected to one another. | 12-11-2008 |
20090011870 | BASEBALL TOY WITH TAIL - An apparatus, system, and method for a creative solution that helps teach younger adults/children about baseball and permits them to better participate in hitting fundamentals. The apparatus includes a spheroid having a diameter in a range of about two to five inches and constructed using foam\blow-molded material; and a tail, coupled to the spheroid, constructed using foam\blow-molded material, the tail providing both enhancement of aerodynamic flight properties of the spheroid and inhibition of end-over-end rotation of the spheroid after being thrown, hit, or launched. | 01-08-2009 |
20090069127 | BAT CONDITIONING DEVICE AND METHOD - A bat conditioning device for breaking in or seasoning softball or baseball bats. A preferred conditioning device includes a handle having a first end and a second end, a grip attached to the first end of the handle, and a head attached to the second end of the handle having an impact response that mimics that of a regulation softball. In the preferred form, the head is a regulation softball. The bat conditioning device is of a length that allows softball bats to be broken-in by striking a bat held in one hand of a user, with the conditioning device being held in the other hand. | 03-12-2009 |
20090088277 | BALL SPORTS TRAINING AID - A ball sports training aid includes a shaft and a slidably engaged replica sports ball assembly with an integral damper that is actuated when a player swings the shaft. Integral swing diagnostics means indicate correct batting, pitching and throwing techniques. | 04-02-2009 |
20090098956 | Ambidextrous pitching screen - A pitching screen which provides a first pitching lane and a second pitching lane in a single pitching screen configuration to allow both left-handed pitchers and right-handed pitchers to pitch without repositioning the pitching screen. | 04-16-2009 |
20090137350 | Game Ball with Enhanced in Flight Movement - A game ball with a generally spherical inner ball and a cover substantially covering the inner ball. The inner ball has first and second halves divided by an imaginary equatorial plane. There are circumferentially spaced openings in the first half of the inner ball and openings in the cover aligned with the openings in the inner ball. The game ball curves away from the openings when thrown and thus may be used for learning how to throw and hit breaking pitches. | 05-28-2009 |
20090312125 | Batting grip and training systems - Bat grip devices and methods are disclosed that are provided for developing swing technique for batting in sports such as baseball and softball. The invention in some embodiments may comprise a bat grip device having a plurality of grip retention elements. The plurality of grip retention elements may be integral with a handle conforming surface and positioned longitudinally along the axis of the handle conforming surface. The longitudinal axis of the handle conforming surface may coincide with and be the longitudinal axis of a handle of a bat. A fulcrum element may be configured between the upper and lower plurality of grip retention elements. In some embodiments the fulcrum element comprises a hand positioning fulcrum element designed to assist in achieving the objectives of the present invention. In still further embodiments, the fulcrum element may comprise a bat acceleration element corresponding to the center of gravity of the bat. The invention in some embodiments comprises methods of batting and batting instruction as well as swing technique, and alternatively may be incorporated into traditional batting instruction. | 12-17-2009 |
20100041498 | Method And System For Training A Baseball Player - A method of training a baseball pitcher comprising the steps of providing a data processor, providing data capture devices which function to capture pitching data relating to the pitcher's pitching motion at a first location and which function to capture ball arrival data relating to the arrival of the pitched ball at a second location. The method further comprises providing a database storage device for storing predetermined pitching data and inputting personal data into said data processor. The method also includes capturing pitching data by said data capture devices relating to said pitcher's pitching motion at the first location, capturing ball arrival data by said data capture devices as the ball arrives at the second location, and inputting said pitching data, ball arrival data and predetermined pitching data into said data processor. The pitching data, ball arrival data and predetermined pitching data are processed in the data processor to generate output data. | 02-18-2010 |
20100048331 | INSTRUCTIONAL BALL - An instructional ball having a football-shaped body shaped as an ellipsoid having a longitudinal axis and a generally circular transverse cross section and a core. | 02-25-2010 |
20100081524 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ANALYZING A PITCHED BALL - Analysis of pitches to determine both their velocity and the location at which they arrive at the batter. The speed of the pitch is adjusted according to an adjustment value whose magnitude is a function of the location of the pitch relative to the batter. For example, high outside pitches would have a different adjustment value than low inside pitches. These adjustment values are calculated to take into account the fact that hitters must swing at different pitches at different times. That is, they must swing at some pitches earlier than others, depending on the location of the pitch. The adjusted speed, or “effective velocity,” of the pitch is thus a function of both the pitch's velocity and its location relative to the batter, making it a more useful metric than velocity or location alone. | 04-01-2010 |
20100125011 | ROTATIONAL SWING STABILITY TRAINING - An apparatus includes a harness attachable circumferentially around a waist area of an athlete. A mechanical resistance attachment guide is coupled to the harness and oriented circumferentially relative to the waist area of the athlete when the harness is worn by the athlete. The mechanical resistance attachment guide provides a circumferentially moveable approximately constant radius attachment location relative to an axis of rotation of the athlete throughout a rotational athletic swing. A vertical anchor plane is defined between the axis of rotation of the athlete and an anchor point located perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the athlete. At least a portion of the mechanical resistance attachment guide remains within the vertical anchor plane throughout the rotational athletic swing. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract. | 05-20-2010 |
20100190587 | METHOD FOR PIVOTALLY SWINGING AND HITTING AN OBJECT - A process for more accurately delivering a hitting device to a ball, including positioning a stiff and straight leading or front leg at the start of and during the process (with no step forward of the front foot or leg) until after contact with the ball, pointing and planting the leading or front foot at least partially in the direction from which the ball is traveling, positioning the hands and the hitting device such that the distal end of the hitting device is below the shoulders and the hitting device is held substantially parallel to the ground at the start of the process, delivering the hitting device directly forward in the same plane as the ball is traveling, and utilizing pivoting of the torso and hips about an axis to deliver the hitting device to a ball with little or no forward or lateral movement of the body. | 07-29-2010 |
20100234143 | Rocket toss - Baseball and softball hitters who use conventional or stationary batting tees during practice sessions hit a ball that is sitting still and not rotating like a ball thrown by a human, another problem is that hitters who try to learn how to hit from stationary or conventional batting tees, either knowingly or unknowingly change their balance and sometimes their stance between swings when the stationary tee is moved to a new location, they do this in order to make it easier to hit balls of different locations to opposite fields but doing it this way is detrimental to proper mechanics. | 09-16-2010 |
20100267497 | Swing Assist and Training Device - A rubber or synthetic texture sleeve that fits loosely over the existing grip. It is made from typical grip material for the application with the exception of having a smooth or textured interior and being oversized for the handle. The sleeve may be used with an interior liner between the handle and the grip for additional cushioning. The length of the sleeve will vary, but can be cut to fit the specific application. The sleeve fits loosely around the bat grip and does not replace or modify the existing grip or bat handle. The degree of twist is determined by the give in the material used allowing for a stronger grip because the friction normally generated from rotating hands around a stationary grip is reduced dramatically. The sleeve reduces vibration because of the increased padding and ability to have a stronger grip. | 10-21-2010 |
20100331124 | Variable mode batting practice assembly - A batting practice assembly includes a controller-power system, and preferably two ball chutes on a slide bar assembly of a ball release apparatus, which is mounted on a height adjustable frame assembly. Four modes of operation are initiated by a foot-activated mechanism of the practice assembly: I-Ball drops from one ball chute; II-Ball drops randomly from either chute; III-Ball drops randomly from either or neither chute; and IV-Random ball drop from either or neither chute, or ball drops with a slight delay from either chute. Difficulty can be increased by adjusting the height of the ball chutes, increasing the distance between the chutes, or changing the angle of the chutes in relation to the hitter. Along with hitting mechanics, the decision-making aspects of hitting and in swing adjustments are developed using the practice assembly. This simplified abstract is not intended to limit, and should not be interpreted as limiting, the scope of the claims. | 12-30-2010 |
20110105252 | Pitching and Hitting Training Aid - A training device for detecting improper or proper form for batting and pitching. The present invention makes use of two sensors that will detect the positioning of the user during the pitching or batting motion. The invention helps detect whether the user is “lunging” or “rushing” and encourages users to keep their upper body back during the motion of pitching or batting. The present invention can also be used for other sports that require users to perform similar body mechanics. | 05-05-2011 |
20110190081 | Eyes On The Ball - An embodiment herein includes a baseball having a cover and a core. The cover encapsulates the core and there at least four images on an exterior surface of the cover. At least four of the images do not substantially extend from one of the panels to another one of the panels. The ball may have a profile substantially similar to a conventional ball. A second embodiment of the ball is where the core is weighted in an asymmetric manner. A method of using an embodiment of the ball includes a player calling out a description of the image as the player fields the ball. | 08-04-2011 |
20110195804 | L-SCREEN FOR PROTECTING A PITCHER - An L-screen for protecting a pitcher during batting practice is disclosed. The L-screen may include a plurality of panel frames configured to be interrelated with one another so as to form an L-shape. A solid protection panel may be mounted within each of the panel frames. The protection panel may be transparent so as to provide an unobstructed view through the protection panel and may have adequate strength to withstand the impact of a baseball hit by a batter. Additionally, the L-screen may include support structure mounted to and configured to support the L-screen. | 08-11-2011 |
20110212797 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SWING TRAINING - An apparatus and method for training an individual to employ proper swing technique in baseball, softball, and other similar sports involving a swinging instrument, a ball, and contact between the swinging instrument and ball. | 09-01-2011 |
20110224027 | Baseball/softball batter training device - A pitched device for training baseball players, softball players, and umpires. The device trains batters to help the batter identify when to swing or not swing at a pitch based on a combination of what the ball and strike count is on the batter and where the pitched ball will pass in relation to the strike zone for that batter. | 09-15-2011 |
20110306445 | Protective screen - A pitching screen which provides a support structure having an arcuate support element which defines the boundary of the pitching screen and about which a ball can be pitched toward a pitching target. | 12-15-2011 |
20120021854 | Softball training device and method of using the same - A softball training device includes a plate assembly pivotally connected to a support member. The plate assembly includes a flat, circular balance plate and a downwardly protruding kick stand formed on its rear end. The support member includes an enlarged base and rectangular mounting bracket transversely disposed on the base, the balance plate directly teetering on the mounting bracket. In use, the training device can be used to train a hitter to maximize lower power drive. Specifically, the hitter centers her rear foot on the balance plate and positions her other foot in front of the device. The hitter then loads her weight rearward, the kick stand keeping the balance plate horizontal. The hitter finally transfers her weight forward through accelerated hip and torso rotation so that the balance plate pivots forward and strikes the base to create an audible signal. With hips and torso initiating the forward movement, the arms are similarly pulled forward so the bat travels through the hitting zone. | 01-26-2012 |
20120071279 | SPORTS TRAINING SYSTEM AND METHOD - The disclosure provides a modular sports training system that can be assembled, placed on a supporting surface, and stood upon by a person during sports training activities. The system is adapted to be assembled with one module being disposed at a non-parallel angle to another module. The non-parallel angle allows a person standing on the system to place one foot on one module and another foot on another module at the non-parallel angle, such as in a batter's stance, and allows the person to stand in a stable manner while encouraging certain positioning of the feet during the sports training activities. The modules can be coupled by an interlocking protrusion and receiver arrangement. The modules can be coupled together by inserting a protrusion of one module into a receiver of another module when the modules are unaligned relative to each other; and then twisting the modules into alignment. | 03-22-2012 |
20120142455 | Pitching Training Apparatus - A method and apparatus are described for training the pitching motion to aid pitchers with target line awareness, head movement, balance, mechanics, and a repeatable delivery using a light weight and portable component pieces which may be assembled to define a pitching rubber assembly for controlling selected pitch delivery motions, a home plate assembly for defining a target area, and stride length adjusters that may be slidably engaged with the pitching rubber assembly to provide an adjustable stride length. | 06-07-2012 |
20120149501 | BALL FOR USE IN TEACHING PITCHING SKILLS - A ball for use in teaching proper throwing or pitching techniques in baseball or softball is disclosed. The ball provides an internal mechanism by way of a snap device or a channel having a shiftable weighted material to provide both an audible and visible indication of when a proper wrist snap release of the ball has occurred. The internal mechanisms disclosed can be incorporated into newly manufactured baseballs or softballs or placed into preexisting balls. | 06-14-2012 |
20120165138 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TRAINING A BASEBALL PLAYER - A strike training device having a rectangular front face, on which are positioned a plurality of graphic striking targets and an visibly defined strike zone. The batter is able to train to mentally envision the strike zone with the help of the visual aids on the front surface. The batter increases in strength and stamina by hitting into the shock absorbing striking surface. The batters judgment and accuracy are improved by quickly identifying a designated striking target, determining if the target is inside the strike zone, and if so, hitting the target. | 06-28-2012 |
20120214621 | Training device and method of using the same - A training device includes a plate assembly pivotally connected to a support member. The plate assembly includes an angled top plate that is removably mounted onto a flat balance plate. The support member includes a rectangular mounting bracket that is transversely disposed across an enlarged base, the balance plate directly teetering on the mounting bracket. In use, the training device can be used to train a hitter to maximize lower body power using sensory and auditory feedback. Specifically, the hitter centers his rear foot on the angled top plate which promotes weight loading on the inner portion of the rear leg. The hitter then initiates the hitting process by driving the lower body forward until the balance plate pivots forward and strikes the base, thereby providing the user with audible and tactile response. This lower body drive creates significant momentum that powers rotation of the bat through the hitting zone. | 08-23-2012 |
20120220395 | Swing Trainer - The present invention provides for the first time a swing trainer having a sheath with a core end and a protective end, the core end of the sheath has a cover attached. | 08-30-2012 |
20120244962 | Ball Markings For Rotation Training - Balls are provided to train someone to throw with proper rotation. A marking is positioned on the ball to enhance viewing of rotation. The marking is in a contrasting color than the rest of the cover and covers at least a quarter of the outer surface of the ball. The stitches are colored to avoid interfering with the visual effect of the marking, such as having stitches with similar coloration to the non-marking portion of the ball. Balls with different amounts or designs of marking may be used to train in stages. For example, a kit of balls for different stages is provided. The balls of different stages require different rates of rotation to appear visually similar to each other when thrown properly. | 09-27-2012 |
20120270686 | Apparatus and Method for Training a Baseball Pitcher - The disclosure relates to a baseball pitcher training apparatus for training a pitcher in controlling his lower and upper body portions in the movement sequence of the human body associated with throwing a baseball during the pitch preparation phase as well as the delivery and follow-through phase to conserve stress or strain in the arm and leg muscles. The apparatus has a frame comprising two vertical post assemblies connected at the top by a horizontal cross beam assembly. Light bag weights are suspended from the cross beam assembly and wires tensioned by circular pulley wheels are attached to the vertical post members. The pitcher learns his body mechanics from pitching with the said wires attached to his body and following a pitching line indicated by the light bag weights and gauging his position by calibration marks on the pitching mound. | 10-25-2012 |
20120283050 | System and Method for Sport Training - A system for training a player of a sport that utilizes a playing ball includes at least two training balls of substantially equal size but unequal mass. Optionally the training balls are lighter and smaller than a playing ball. The method of the present invention includes providing a system of at least two training balls as described. The training balls are thrown to a player using the same arm speed with each throw to train the player with pitches of different flight characteristics arising from the same throwing motion and arm speed. | 11-08-2012 |
20120302381 | Barrier Support Structure - The present invention provides for the first time a barrier support structure comprising at least one removable closed-loop resilient coilable frame having a perimeter. The removable closed-loop coilable frame comprises at least one connection member. A support base comprises at least one attachment member. The attachment member removably attaches to the connection member of the removable coilable frame. The attachment member maintains a predetermined angle between the removable coilable frame and the support base. | 11-29-2012 |
20130040766 | PITCHING MOVEMENT TRAINING DEVICE - A pitching movement training device includes a ball, a plurality of pegs selectively secured at predetermined locations about the surface of the ball, and at least one band secured between adjacent pegs. The ball has a seam and at least one of the pegs being positioned adjacent the seam. The ball allows one to teach athletes proper hand positioning upon a ball while throwing specific pitches. The method includes providing the plurality of pegs and the ball, securing the pegs to the ball at predetermined locations about the outer surface of the ball, positioning a user's fingers relative to the pegs; and instructing the user to throw a pitch with a specific hand motion. | 02-14-2013 |
20130102422 | Eyes On The Ball - An embodiment herein includes a baseball having a cover and a core. The cover encapsulates the core and there at least four images on an exterior surface of the cover. At least four of the images do not substantially extend from one of the panels to another one of the panels. The ball may have a profile substantially similar to a conventional ball. A second embodiment of the ball is where the core is weighted in an asymmetric manner. A method of using an embodiment of the ball includes a player calling out a description of the image as the player fields the ball. | 04-25-2013 |
20130102423 | LIGHTWEIGHT TUNNEL FOR BASEBALL PITCHING PRACTICE - A fabric tunnel for baseball pitching practice with a simple “auto-catcher” is made of netting in one embodiment. At the target end a flap with indicia of accuracy of aim also constitutes a flap that provides an audible feedback when hit and also allows the thrown balls to be captured. Straps are used to hold the tunnel in position by attachment to poles supported by guy wires or the straps could be attached to fixed objects such as a chain-link fence. | 04-25-2013 |
20130137540 | Baseball Batting-Practice Apparatus and Related Methods of Use - Disclosed is a portable apparatus for batting practice which aids in the development and/or improvement of a batter's ability to strike a baseball/softball with a baseball/softball bat. The apparatus consists of ball-targets, affixed to a hub, that rotate about a horizontal axle. Suitably, the hub is defined by a strap and clamp assembly. | 05-30-2013 |
20130150189 | BASEBALL PITCHING TRAINING DEVICE - A pitching training device comprises a typical baseball with raised pitching training structure on top of the stitches on the seam. The pitching training structure is able to be an additional layer of stitches on top of the typical stitches of a baseball. The pitching training structure provides a finger rest area allowing a user to spin the baseball more easily at a breaking ball pitching release. | 06-13-2013 |
20130210558 | ATHLETIC TRAINING PROGRAM - A method of training a baseball pitcher includes instructing the pitcher to perform a group of throws in a kneeling position, instructing the pitcher to repeat the group of throws in a rocker position, and instructing the pitcher to repeat the group of throws in a run-and-gun position. Performing a group of throws includes performing a set of throws for each of a plurality of balls with different weights, wherein performing a set of throws includes throwing a first throw modality and throwing a second throw modality, and wherein the first throw modality includes holding the ball during the throw and the second throwing modality includes releasing the ball throughout the throw. | 08-15-2013 |
20130324329 | Baseball Training Device for Practicing Hitting - This present invention is a baseball training device for practicing hitting, comprising a swing member supporting either a static and dynamic balanced arm member having a ball at one end or a ball holder member freely supporting a ball. The swing member is supported by a base member and is restored to its equilibrium position in hitting practice mode by gravity. The rotation of the static and dynamic balanced arm member and oscillation of the swing member aid in the dissipation of force imparted to the device in hitting practice mode, making the device stable and stationary, portable and lightweight. | 12-05-2013 |
20130324330 | TRAINING APPARATUS FOR A PITCHER - Disclosed is a training apparatus for underhand pitching, the apparatus including a support frame including at least one leg portion configured to support at least one bar portion, and at least one flap suspended from the at least one bar portion. | 12-05-2013 |
20140051531 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TEACHING SLIDING TECHNIQUES - Embodiments constructed in accordance with the principles herein relate to an apparatus and method for teaching and practicing sliding techniques. The sliding apparatus includes a sliding element have a sliding surface and opposing surface, the sliding element opposing surface adapted to movably contact a substantially flat surface; and a target element having a first surface and second surface, the target element second surface coupled to the sliding element sliding surface and providing a target for teaching and practicing sliding techniques. | 02-20-2014 |
20140094328 | Training Baseball for Hitting Practice - A training baseball provides at least one flat surface for use as a visual indicator during hitting practice using a batting tee. Multiple flat surfaces may be incorporated for accommodating multiple skill levels. | 04-03-2014 |
20140106907 | BASEBALL THROWING AID - A baseball or softball (B) throwing aid ( | 04-17-2014 |
20140135151 | BASEBALL PITCHING TRAINING DEVICE - A baseball pitching training deice providing student of pitching with a tool which allows them to visually assists in the development of the proper grip and release of a baseball during pitching. The device consists of a circular soft or hard object having simulated or actual stitching incorporated upon the external surface area such that the circular object is a standard baseball or simulates a standard baseball. A dowel is incorporated within the circular object and the dowel assists in the development of the proper grip and release of a baseball. | 05-15-2014 |
20140155198 | BALL FOR USE IN TEACHING PITCHING AND THROWING SKILLS - A ball for use in teaching proper throwing or pitching techniques in baseball or softball is disclosed. The ball provides an internal mechanism by way of a snap device or a channel having a shiftable weighted material to provide both an audible and visible indication of when a proper wrist snap release of the ball has occurred. The internal mechanisms disclosed can be incorporated into newly manufactured baseballs or softballs or placed into preexisting balls. | 06-05-2014 |
20140187358 | Baseball Training Device For Practicing Hitting - This present invention is a baseball training device for practicing hitting, comprising a swing member supporting either a ball member or a weighted ball member comprising a ball member attached to a weighted member by an elastic member. The swing member, supported by a base member, is restored to its equilibrium position in hitting practice mode by gravity. As the weighted member is always suspended in air in hitting practice mode, its tension restores its ball member to its equilibrium position. The oscillation of the swing member aids in the dissipation of force imparted to the device in hitting practice mode, making the device stable and stationary, portable and lightweight. | 07-03-2014 |
20140194228 | Instruction Pitch Baseball - An instructional device for the teaching of gripping a baseball for a predetermined throwing action of a delivered pitch includes a sphere of two identical figure-eight shaped cover pieces with a continuous seam stitching along with a plurality of locations imprinted on the cover pieces adapted to receive the placement of a user's index finger, middle finger and thumb in grasping the ball to subsequently hurl it with the characteristics of a Four-seam Fastball, Two-seamed Fastball, Slider, Split-finger Fastball or other thrown pitches. | 07-10-2014 |
20140221132 | Adjustable Batting Apparatus - An adjustable batting apparatus contains a spring, at least one batting pad, a screw rod, and a nut. The spring is cylindrical and includes a plurality of coils, a first segment, a second segment, and the first segment or the second segment is fixed on a fixing face. The at least one batting pad is connected with the second segment or the first segment. The screw rod is axially inserted into the spring and having a first end coupled with the first segment of the spring and a second end extending out of the second segment of the spring so as to form an adjusting section. The nut screws with the adjusting section so that the nut is rotated to control a length of the adjusting section of the screw rod, hence the spring is pressed or released, thus adjusting a bending flexibility of the spring. | 08-07-2014 |
20140274485 | BUCKET FEEDER FOR A BALL PROJECTING MACHINE - A ball feeder assembly for a ball projecting machine includes a stand, an upper frame, a ball delivery element coupled to the frame, and a ball feeder member coupled to the ball delivery element. The assembly is configured for supporting a cylindrical ball bucket. The frame is movably coupled to the stand between at least a first position in which the frame is configured to support the bucket in a position with a top end at a higher elevation than a bottom end such that the longitudinal axis of the bucket is at angle within 0 and 80 degrees from a vertical plane, and a second position in which the frame is configured to support the bucket in a downward position with the bottom end at a higher elevation than the upper end such that the axis is within 5 to 90 degrees with respect to a horizontal plane. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274486 | BALL SENSING - An apparatus configured for selectable use with an external electronic device. The apparatus comprises a ball including a core, a cover assembly comprising panels joined by stitching and surrounding the core, a sensor to sense motion of the ball, and a data output device. The data output device is carried by the ball and in communication with the sensor, the data output device to transmit data signals to the external electronic device. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274487 | BALL SENSING - A ball including a core, at least one layer of yarn surrounding the core, a cover assembly comprising panels joined by stitching and surrounding the at least one layer of yarn, a sensor to sense motion of the ball, a data output device carried by the ball and in communication with the sensor, and a light emitter coupled to the sensor. | 09-18-2014 |
20140302950 | Base Pad Having Touch Sensing Capabilities - An advanced baseball training base pad for repetitive teaching of proper base running is disclosed. Generally, the optimum pace to contact a base while rounding bases is the inside corner; therefore, sensors configured to the base pad provide indication/feedback to a user as to the part of the base pad being contacted. Alternative embodiments are provided showing different configurations of sensor arrays and multiple base pad portions that can be contacted by a base runner. | 10-09-2014 |
20140335977 | Baseball/Softball Training Aid - A collapsible seating device is provided for support of a catcher in a crouched position while catching balls from a pitcher. The seating device is collapsible from an as-used supporting configuration to a planar collapsed configuration for transport. Wheels on one end of the frame allow for rolling of the frame for transport. | 11-13-2014 |
20140378249 | BALL TOSSING APPARATUS AND METHOD - A ball tossing apparatus includes a support frame and a plurality of launch devices fixed to the support frame and arranged in a two-dimensional array. The launch devices include cylinders having a spring fixed therein, with a ball carrier fixed to the spring. The balls are retained in a loaded position (springs compressed) and then upon activation of the launch devices are launched vertically into the air to the sports player. In another embodiment, the launch devices include a rotating lever which is acted on by a biasing member to launch the ball vertically from the cylinder. A method for launching the balls includes the steps of loading the balls into a two dimensional array, and then launching the balls according to a launch sequence. An electronic control system for use with the ball tossing apparatus includes a launch module for launching the loaded balls in the plurality of launch devices according to a launch sequence. The launch sequences can be randomly generated, programmed by the sports player, or retrieved from memory. The launch of the balls can also be controlled remotely. | 12-25-2014 |
20150031479 | Leg Drive Measuring and Training Apparatus for Baseball and Softball Pitchers - An apparatus for measuring a baseball and softball pitcher's “leg drive” for training and coaching purposes and for developing a strong leg drive. The apparatus includes a lower ground engaging plate and an upper pitcher's foot supporting plate. The plates are slidingly secured to one another such that the upper plate is linearly moveable relative to the lower plate. A force measuring element is provided between the upper and lower plates. A pitchers rubber is secured to the upper plate. A pitcher uses the apparatus by stepping on the upper plate and pushing against the rubber while pitching, thereby linearly moving the upper plate against the element. The element thereby provides an output indicative of the pitcher's leg drive. The element can be a load cell or a spring mechanism. An audible sound is generated when the spring force is overcome. | 01-29-2015 |
20150297965 | Pitching Screen Assembly - A pitching screen assembly adapted to be readily converted between a non-deployed configuration and a deployed configuration including: first and second ground-engaging support members each having first ends, second ends, and midpoints, wherein the first and second ends define lengths therebetween; a frame sub-assembly associated with the first and second ground-engaging support members, wherein the frame sub-assembly includes an internal aperture contained therein; a protective screen, wherein the protective screen is displaceable within the frame sub-assembly between a non-deployed position and a deployed position along a first axis (X); and wherein when in the non-deployed position the internal aperture of the frame sub-assembly remains substantially open to allow a pitcher to pitch a ball with a normal throwing motion, and wherein when in the deployed position the internal aperture of the frame sub-assembly is closed to protect a pitcher from a batted ball. | 10-22-2015 |
20150314182 | Stripe Marked Baseball and Softball - Softballs and baseballs are provided as training devices to train an athlete to throw a ball with control of rotation. The training device consists of a spherical object covered by two smooth coverings stitched together and an ink or dye stripe or marking of any color around the circumference of the sphere. The training device is manufactured with a stripe which is between 0.75 inches in width and 2.00 inches in width. The stripe on the training device runs perpendicular or oblique to the stitching. When thrown, the stripe allows the athlete to visually identify the rotation which he or she has caused. Once acquired, the ability to control the rotation of a ball minimizes the ability or opportunity for an opponent batter to make efficient and efficacious contact with the ball. | 11-05-2015 |
20150328517 | ANTI-BOUNCE BACK PROTECTIVE SAFETY SCREEN APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - A protective screen system having a protective screen made up of a protective screen frame and a primary net, and including a protective screen safety apparatus coupled to the protective screen. The protective screen safety apparatus includes one or more spacing connectors adapted to couple a structure such as a protective screen frame, and support and suspend a safety net in front of and spaced from the protective screen frame to minimize bounce back of a ball from the protective screen frame. Methods of protecting a batter with the protective screen safety apparatus are provided. Retrofitting and adjustable protective screen safety apparatus are described, including embodiments adapted to minimize damage to chain-link fences, as are other aspects. | 11-19-2015 |
20160023079 | Base Running Training Device - A base running training device facilitates the teaching of proper base running techniques in the game of baseball. The device includes a plurality of bases configured for positioning on a baseball diamond. Each base comprises an incoming edge transverse to an outgoing edge. Base indicia is positioned on each of the bases demarcating a section of an associated one of the bases defining a desired area to be contacted by a player when playing baseball on the baseball diamond. | 01-28-2016 |
20160038813 | BATTING AID APPARATUS - A batting aid apparatus and methods for using same with a bat (e.g., baseball or softball bat) to increase batting power, bat speed, and swing path is provided. The batting aid apparatus can include an annular body adapted to surround a bat and having a bore formed therethrough, a plurality of annular ribs disposed on a surface of an inner diameter of the annular body and located within the bore of the annular body, and an annular sleeve adjacent and extending from one or more outer surfaces of the annular body, such that the annular sleeve can be concentric with the bore of the annular body. | 02-11-2016 |
20160051878 | TRAINING DEVICE FOR BALL THROWING - A training device is provided for teaching a desired overhand ball throwing technique. The device includes a guide track, a ball, and a ball mount that attaches the ball to the guide track. The guide track has opposite ends and is configured to be mounted in an elevated or overhead location, with the ball and ball mount traversing between the opposite ends during use. The ball mount may provide multiple degrees of freedom when throwing the ball, while guiding the ball along a desired path as the ball is held in a user's hand and propelled in a throwing manner. | 02-25-2016 |
20160067574 | Apparatus, Assembly Kit, And Methods For Training Overhead Throwing Motions And Balance - An apparatus, kit and method for guiding overhead throwing motions. The apparatus may comprise a base member for supporting a rising member, which may be connected to an elongated member. The rising member may pivot in relation to the elongated member. A mechanical fastener may lock the pivoting motion. The elongated member may guide a path for the foot of the user. The user standing on a throwing surface may: lift his or her leading foot to a contact point on the guiding surface of the apparatus; direct the leading foot downward along the guiding surface; and, lift the leading foot from the guiding surface to a landing spot on the throwing surface. When unassembled, the component parts of the apparatus may be fit into a standard sized baseball batting bag. | 03-10-2016 |
20160067575 | BALL-HITTING TRAINING DEVICE - Various embodiments include a ball-hitting training device for a ball player. The ball-hitting training device may include a base, a height member, a width member, a first arm and a second arm. The height member may extend vertically from the base. The width member may extend horizontally in opposed directions from the height member. The first arm may extend at a first angle from a first end of the width member. In addition, the second arm may extend at a second angle from a second end of the width member. A player space may be formed between the first and second arms and configured to allow the ball player to stand therein. | 03-10-2016 |
20160121190 | Sports Training Target - A sports training target includes a strike plate constructed of a metal sheet that is selected so that the target produces a crisp pop sound when hit to provide an audible indicator that the target was hit. The metal sheet is further selected so that the strike plate will dent when hit with a sufficient force to provide a visual indication of where the strike plate was struck. | 05-05-2016 |
20160136494 | Ball Rotation Indicator and Method - The present application is directed to an athletic training tool. The athletic training tool includes a ball and an elongated member attached thereto, the elongated member is attached to the ball in a manner effective to maintain the center of gravity of the ball. The elongated member may be visually observable during use of the athletic training tool. | 05-19-2016 |
20160151694 | PITCHING MAT DEVICE | 06-02-2016 |