U.S. patent application number 09/788818 was filed with the patent office on 2001-06-28 for athlete practice shooting aid device.
This patent application is currently assigned to Sports Scoring Aids Ltd.. Invention is credited to Barry, Richard E..
Application Number | 20010005701 09/788818 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25169009 |
Filed Date | 2001-06-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010005701 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Barry, Richard E. |
June 28, 2001 |
Athlete practice shooting aid device
Abstract
An athletic shooting aid adapted to be detachably mounted
directly on the goal of a sporting event to provide a target at
which the player aims and strikes with the game piece in order to
improve the form and accuracy of the player's shooting. The device
comprises a clamp which is removably attachable to the goal having
a substantially straight elongated member extending from the clamp
with a ball or target of material attached to the elongated member
to serve as the target at which the player aims when shooting the
game piece. The elongated member is adapted and configured to allow
the ball to move when struck by the game piece in such a manner
that the game piece deflects the ball without substantially
affecting the trajectory of the game piece and to allow the ball to
be repositioned after the game piece has passed through the
goal.
Inventors: |
Barry, Richard E.;
(Stanhope, NJ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PENNIE AND EDMONDS
1155 AVENUE OF THE AMERICAS
NEW YORK
NY
100362711
|
Assignee: |
Sports Scoring Aids Ltd.
|
Family ID: |
25169009 |
Appl. No.: |
09/788818 |
Filed: |
February 20, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09788818 |
Feb 20, 2001 |
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09141470 |
Aug 28, 1998 |
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6190270 |
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09141470 |
Aug 28, 1998 |
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08796768 |
Feb 6, 1997 |
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5800290 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
473/438 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 63/00 20130101;
A63B 69/0071 20130101; A63B 2243/007 20130101; A63B 69/0028
20130101; A63B 69/002 20130101; A63B 2209/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/438 |
International
Class: |
A63B 069/00 |
Claims
I claim:
1. A device attachable to a sporting event goal for improving the
shooting of a player by providing a visual target to aim at and
strike with the sporting event's game piece comprising: a clamp
having a surface which contacts the sporting event's goal and an
oppositely facing exterior surface, the clamp configured and
adapted to attach to the sporting event's goal; a substantially
straight elongated member having first and second ends, the
elongated member extending from the clamp such that its second end
is located at a point distal from the clamp; and a target member
adjacent or at the second end of the elongated member to form a
target for the player to aim and attempt to strike with the game
piece, wherein the elongated member is configured and adapted such
that it (a) deflects when the target member is struck by the game
piece so that the target member moves without substantially
altering the trajectory of the game piece and (b) returns the
target member to its original position after it has been deflected
by the game piece.
2. The device of claim 1 wherein the elongated member at least
partially is made of a resiliently flexible material such that it
will (a) bend in order to displace the target member when the
target member is struck by the game piece in a manner which allows
the game piece to pass by the target member without substantially
altering the trajectory of the game piece and (b) unbend to its
substantially straight configuration to return the target member to
its original position.
3. The device of claim 2 wherein at least a portion of the
elongated member is made of rubber.
4. The device of claim 2 wherein the elongated member at least
partially is formed of a coil spring.
5. The device of claim 1 wherein the elongated member is fixedly
connected to the clamp in a non-adjustable manner.
6. The device of claim 1 wherein the target member is attached at
the distal end of the elongated member.
7. The device of claim 1 configured and dimensioned to attach to a
lacrosse goal.
8. The device of claim 7 wherein the elongated member is fixedly
connected to the clamp in a non-adjustable manner.
9. The device of claim 1 wherein the clamp is removably attached to
the sporting event's goal.
10. A basketball shooting aid device attachable to a basketball rim
for improving the shooting of a player, the basketball shooting aid
comprising: a clamp configured and adapted to attach to a
basketball rim, the clamp having a surface which contacts the
basketball rim and an exterior surface; a substantially straight
elongated member having first and second ends, the elongated member
extending from the clamp such that its second end is located at a
point distal from the clamp; and a target member adjacent or at the
second end of the elongated member to form a target for the player
to aim and attempt to strike with the basketball, wherein the
elongated member is configured and adapted such that it (a)
deflects when the target member is struck by the basketball so that
the target member moves without substantially altering the
trajectory of the basketball and (b) returns the target member to
its original position after it has been deflected by the game
piece.
11. The device of claim 10 wherein the device is adapted and
configured to place the target member in the range of approximately
two to approximately four inches above the rim.
12. The device according to claim 10 wherein at least a portion of
the elongated member is resiliently flexible such that it will (a)
bend when the target member is struck in a manner which allows the
basketball to pass through the basketball hoop without
substantially altering the basketball's trajectory and (b) unbend
to its substantially straight configuration to return the target
member to its original position after the target has been struck by
the basketball.
13. The device of claim 10 wherein at least a portion of the
elongated member is made of rubber.
14. The device of claim 10 wherein the elongated member is fixedly
connected to the clamp in a non-adjustable manner.
15. The device of claim 10 wherein the clamp is removably attached
to the basketball rim.
16. The device of claim 10 wherein the target member comprises a
three-dimensional bulk-member.
17. The device according to claim 10 wherein the elongated member
is integral with the target member.
18. A basketball shooting aid attachable to a basketball hoop which
includes a rim for improving the shooting of a basketball player,
the basketball shooting aid comprising: (a) a clamp configured and
adapted to attach directly to a basketball rim; (b) an elongated
member having first and second ends, the elongated member extending
from the clamp such that its second end is located at a point
distal from the clamp; and (c) a target member adjacent or at the
second end of the elongated member to form a target for the player
to aim and attempt to strike with the basketball, wherein the
clamp, elongated member and target member are configured and
adapted to locate the target in the range of approximately two to
approximately four inches over the rim when the clamp is attached
to the rim.
19. The device of claim 18 wherein the elongated member is
configured and adapted such that it (a) deflects when the target
member is struck by the basketball so that the target member moves
without substantially altering the trajectory of the basketball and
(b) returns the target member to its original position after it has
been deflected by the basketball.
20. The device of claim 18 wherein the elongated member consists of
a single unitary piece fixedly connected to the clamp and extending
substantially perpendicular therefrom.
21. A method of teaching a basketball player to shoot a basketball
comprising the steps of: (a) providing at least one basketball
shooting aid device comprising a clamp for mounting the device onto
the basketball rim, a substantially straight elongated member
having first and second ends, the elongated member extending from
the clamp so that its second end is located at a point distal from
the clamp, a target member attached adjacent or at the second end
of the elongated member, the target member forming an aiming point
at which the basketball player shoots, the target member in the
range of approximately one to approximately four inches away from
the clamp; (b) mounting at least one of said basketball shooting
devices on a portion of the rim and in a manner which places the
target member approximately two to approximately four inches above
the rim; and (c) instructing the shooter to aim at the target
member.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE
[0001] This application is a Continuation of application Ser. No.
09/141,470 filed Aug. 28, 1998, which is a Continuation-in-Part of
application Ser. No. 08/796,768 filed Feb. 6, 1997.
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to a shooting aid device connected to
a goal, such as a basketball hoop, soccer goal, hockey goal,
football goalposts, etc., having a target at which a player aims to
improve his/her shooting form and accuracy.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Various training devices have been designed in an attempt to
improve the shooting accuracy of athletes in sporting events such
as basketball, soccer, hockey, lacrosse, football, tennis, etc. At
least two types of shooting aids have been proposed. The first type
of shooting aid causes the game piece, i.e., the basketball, soccer
ball, hockey puck, lacrosse ball, tennis ball, etc., to miss or
deflect away from the goal when it is improperly shot thus allowing
only highly accurate and desirable shots to score. The second type
of shooting aid provides a visual target for the player to aim and
shoot at when shooting at the goal.
[0004] One area in which many shooting aid devices have been
attempted is basketball. One example of a basketball practice
device which operates by deflecting shots with undesirable
trajectories is U.S. Pat. No. 4,206,915 to Woodcock. This patent
has as its principal object a device which will deflect shots
having a flat trajectory and encourage shooters to place a higher
arc or trajectory on a shot. The Woodcock device has a C-ring
adapted to attach to the basketball hoop with a plurality of
radially, laterally extending legs which extend outwardly from the
hoop about four to six inches. A free-standing member is mounted on
each leg which projects at least about two to four inches over the
rim. The free-standing member is positioned to deflect basketball
shots having undesirable trajectories. The object and purpose of
the free-standing members are for the shooter to aim and shoot over
the free-standing members so that the shooter develops a high
arcing shot. The disadvantage of this device is that it does not
provide a visual target or focus point for the player to aim at
when shooting the basketball. A further disadvantage is that a
shooter may improperly focus on and subconsciously aim at the
free-standing member which will have the undesirable effect of
teaching poor shooting. In addition, this device does not provide
positive reenforcement when the player makes a proper shot, but
rather it only indicates when the player has made an improper shot
having a low, flat trajectory.
[0005] An example of the second type of shooting aid which provides
a target is U.S. Pat. No. 4,244,569 to Wong which discloses a
target in the form of a brightly colored ball which extends from
the backboard at a position substantially immediately below and at
the center of the basketball hoop. This apparatus has disadvantages
in that the target is not easily visible in its position
immediately below the rim and in the center of the hoop.
[0006] A differing example of the second type of practice shooting
aid is U.S. Pat. No. 4,506,886 to Lamb, Sr. which discloses a
basketball practice apparatus which extends from the backboard at a
position above the rim and at the center of the hoop area. This
basketball shooting apparatus has disadvantages inasmuch as the
structure of the holding apparatus for the target impedes upon the
utilization of the backboard and prevents utilizing the apparatus
in a scrimmage or game situation.
[0007] Another example of the second type of shooting aid is U.S.
Pat. No. 5,603,495 to Novek. In one embodiment, Noveck discloses
two collars which fit together to form a torodial enclosure which
is attached to the rim of a basketball hoop. A rod (pivot shaft)
traverses an aperture formed in the side wall of one of the collars
and two support arms connect adjacent to and extend substantially
perpendicular from the ends of the rod (pivot shaft), a
two-dimensional planar target attaches to and spans the distance
between the two support arms and a spring positioned around the
support arms (and retained by the collar) allows the target face to
move and be repositioned. A second embodiment of Noveck discloses a
similar rod (pivot shaft), support arm and target construction with
a fastening device which attaches to the basketball rim and has a
flange which extends from the structure in contact with the rim and
forms an opening to receive and attach to the mid-section of the
rod (pivot shaft). Noveck discloses that the target can be placed
at an angle relative to the ground which can accommodate relatively
flat or high-arched shots.
[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide a
practice device which can be attached to a basketball hoop and
other sporting event goals and aids in teaching players proper aim
and shooting/kicking techniques. It is a further object of the
invention to present a visual target which displays a clearly
visible aiming or focus point. It is a further object of the
invention to provide positive feedback to the player so that the
player can perceive when he/she has taken a proper shot. It is a
further object of the invention that the target deflect upon impact
with the basketball or other game piece in a manner which does not
substantially deflect or alter the path or trajectory of the
basketball or other game piece.
[0009] It is a further object of the invention that the device be
configured and attachable to a basketball hoop or sporting event
goal in a manner which does not interfere with play such that a
scrimmage or game can be played with the target device attached to
the hoop or goal. It is a further object of the invention to attach
the device as unobtrusively as possible to limit the possibility of
interrupting the trajectory of the basketball or game piece or the
possibility of unexpected ricochet or bouncing. It is a further
object of the invention to configure and adapt the device so that
"dunking" of the basketball can still occur so that game-play can
be as normal and realistic as possible. It is a further object of
the invention to adapt and configure the device such that the
possibility of hand injury during dunks or rebound tip-ins is
minimized. It is a further object of the invention to configure the
device so that it can attach to standard as well as non-standard or
reinforced basketball hoops, common in public basketball
courts.
[0010] It is a further object of the invention to provide positive
feedback in the form of flashing or blinking lights, alone or in
combination with a pleasing sound generated from an audio
means.
[0011] It is a further object of the invention to attach the device
to the hoop such that it does not damage the hoop or goal over time
by marking or deforming the rim/goal or chipping the paint. It is
also an object of the invention to provide a basketball practice
shooting device for improving shooting accuracy which utilizes a
target positioned above the front of the rim to present an
unobscured aiming or focus point for the shooter. It is an object
of the basketball shooting aid device to teach the shooter to place
his/her shots just above the front of the basketball rim. It is a
still further object that, while the device may be attached to the
goal during scrimmage or game play, after consistent usage an image
or illusion of the target should or may appear to the player
without the target practice apparatus actually in place.
[0012] Other objects and advantages of this invention will become
apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with
the accompanying drawings wherein different embodiments are set
forth by way of illustration.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] This invention involves a practice device which can be
mounted on a goal, for example the rim of a basketball hoop, a
hockey goal, a soccer goal, football goalposts, a tennis net, etc.,
and used to improve the sighting, placing, shooting and ideally the
scoring skills of a player. The device comprises a base or clamp
adapted to mount to the aforementioned goal which has extending
linearly therefrom an elongated member which has attached thereto
at the end distal from the base a bulk or ball of material acting
as a target. The bulk or ball of material acts as the target for
the shooter to aim at when shooting. The elongated member is
designed so that when the player hits the target, the bulk or ball
of material will deflect away without substantially affecting or
altering the trajectory of the game piece. By hitting the target,
the player receives positive feedback and a sense of an accurate,
proper shot. In addition, the device does not substantially affect
or interfere with the play of the game by deflecting the shot
off-course or intruding upon the play of the game.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of the device
according to the present invention mounted on the rim of a
basketball hoop;
[0015] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a different
embodiment of the device of FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a different embodiment of
the invention mounted on a football goalpost;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a different embodiment of
the invention mounted on a soccer goal;
[0018] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 2 with a
cross-section of the target member.
[0019] FIG. 6 is a cross-section of a device according to the
present invention;
[0020] FIG. 7 is a cross-section of an elongated member of a
different embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 8 is the elongated member of FIG. 7 in a break-away
position;
[0022] FIG. 9 is a cross-section of a different embodiment of an
elongated member according to the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 10 is a cross-section of a clamp according to the
present invention;
[0024] FIG. 11 is a cross-section of a different clamp according to
the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 12 is a cross-section of the clamp of FIG. 11 in its
locked position;
[0026] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a different clamp according
to the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a further different clamp
according to the present invention; and
[0028] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a different clamp according
to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0029] The device of the present invention will be explained
primarily by reference to basketball. However the device has
application in many sports and should not be limited to the
specific device as adapted for basketball. Referring to FIG. 1, a
standard basketball goal or hoop 10 is mounted on a backboard (not
shown) by means of a conventional bracketing arrangement (also not
shown). Mounted on the rim 5 of the basketball goal or hoop 10 is
one embodiment of the device 20 of the present invention. The term
"goal" as used herein depends upon the sporting event referenced
and is used in a broad general sense to refer to a basketball hoop,
a soccer goal, football goalposts, a hockey goal and/or a tennis
net as well as the supporting structure such as goalposts,
crossbars, uprights, etc. In a similar manner, "game piece" is used
in a general sense to refer to the object which is being shot,
aimed, thrown or hit. For example, in hockey, the game piece would
be the hockey puck (or ball); in basketball, the basketball; in
tennis, the tennis ball; etc.
[0030] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the device 20 is attached to the
basketball hoop 10 by means of a base or clamp 30. The elongated
member 50 is attached at its first end substantially perpendicular
to the clamp 30. Bulk member 60, is attached to the elongated
member 50 at its second end opposite to the clamp 30 and provides a
highly visible target for the shooter.
[0031] The bulk member 60 can be of any suitable size or shape, but
preferably the bulk member 60 is spherical and has a diameter such
that it is small enough not to interfere with game-play, but is
large enough to be visible at a distance. Approximately one and
one-half inches, for example, has been found to be one size that is
suitable for basketball.
[0032] The bulk member 60 should be made of any material which has
the requisite strength and durability characteristics such that it
will not fail, break, crack or be damaged when repeatedly impacted
by the basketball and, preferably, should not mar the basketball. A
soft, deformable resiliently elastic material is preferred for the
bulk member 60 and rubber has been found to be a suitable
material.
[0033] The bulk member 60 preferably is brightly colored so as to
be seen at a distance and should preferably be a different color
than the elongated member 50 so that the bulk member stands out for
the shooter and the elongated member fades into the background or
is unnoticeable. The ball 60 may be configured into any suitable
shape, and it is preferred that the ball 60 be sized, configured
and colored to be highly visible. A spherical ball such as
illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 made of rubber and sized to be larger
than the elongated member 50 and colored differently than the
elongated member 50 and, preferably, a bright color has been
successful for basketball.
[0034] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 5, the bulk member 60 may
comprise a translucent shell which encases a light source 65. The
light source 65 may be constant, or may flash or may be colored so
as to be highly visible at a great distance.
[0035] The bulk or ball of material 60 is attached to the end 52 of
the elongated member 50. The bulk member 60 may be attached to the
elongated member 50 by any suitable means such as drilling a hole
in the bulk member 60 and securing it onto the elongated member 50
by a force-fit, friction fit or, alternatively, using a screw,
rivet, pin fastener or any like fastening device. Alternatively,
the bulk member 60 may be connected to the elongated member 50 by
bonding or gluing, and also may be formed integrally with the
elongated member 50.
[0036] An elongated member 50 extends substantially straight from
the clamp 30 without any major bends or curved portions. The
elongated member 50 is made of resilient flexible material such
that it will withstand the shock of flying game pieces and will
deflect, flex or deform when the ball 60 is struck or impacted by a
game piece in a manner which will allow the ball 60 to move or
deflect out of the path of the game piece without substantially
altering the game piece's trajectory. The elongated member 50
returns to its initial position after the game piece has passed so
that the target returns to its original position after being struck
by the game piece to reset for the next shot. The elongated member
50 is formed of a material and sized and configured to withstand
the force and impact of the game piece of the sporting event for
which the device 20 is designed. Examples of materials suitable for
elongated member 50 include rubber, plastics, urethanes, coiled
metal springs or a combination of these materials.
[0037] The clamp 30, when used to attach the device to a basketball
rim, preferably has a modified C-shape which includes an opening 31
to allow the clamp to slide over the basketball rim 5 with an inner
surface which has an arcuately-shaped upper portion 34 which rests
on top of the rim 5, a straight back portion 36 and a flat straight
bottom base portion 38. The opening 32 is approximately
seven-eighths of an inch, the bottom base portion 38 approximately
five-eighths of an inch, and the back portion 36 approximately
five-eighths of an inch. The clamp 30 has a longitudinal axis which
extends along the direction of the opening 32 shown in FIG. 2. The
arcuately-shaped upper portion 34 has a radius of curvature which
approximates the radius of curvature of the basketball hoop and is
approximately five-sixteenths of an inch (five-eighths inch
diameter). The arcuately-shaped upper portion 34 contributes to the
formation of a flange or lip 37 which extends downwardly along the
side of the basketball rim 5. The lip or flange 37 helps the clamp
30 grasp and remain on the basketball rim 5.
[0038] The bottom base portion 38 of the clamp 30 has a threaded
hole 40 therethrough for receiving a set screw 42. The set screw 42
has machine threads which mate and interact with the machine
threads formed in hole 40 to allow the screw 42 to be turned in
order to press and hold the clamp 30 on the goal; in FIG. 1, the
rim 5 of the basketball hoop 10. It can be appreciated that the
threaded hole 40 can be formed in different location(s) on clamp 30
or holes in addition to threaded hole 40 can be formed in the clamp
30 to interact with the set screw(s) 42. The end 44 of the set
screw 42 may have a plate (FIG. 1), circular knob (FIG. 2), or any
other configuration which allows the set screw 42 to be turned.
Preferably, the end 44 of the screw 42 is configured to allow the
set screw 42 to be hand-tightened onto the goal 10. Alternatively,
other fastening devices such as a spring-loaded pin can be utilized
to retain clamp 30 on the rim 5 of the basketball hoop 10.
[0039] It is preferred that the clamp 30 be adapted and configured
to be removably attached to all basketball rims including the older
style and the new style which has a rounded edging of material
underneath the rim and which is used to attach the net to the rim.
In the newer style rim with the extra piece of rounded edging on
the underside of the rim, it is advantageous to have a threaded
hole 40 formed diagonally in the corner where the bottom base
portion 38 and back portion 36 meet. The set screw or fastening
device 42 then protrudes through the hole 40 and presses diagonally
into both the rim and the rounded bottom edging. In this
circumstance, lip 37 is advantageous because it retains the clamp
30 on the rim 5.
[0040] The clamp 30 may be made of any material which has the
requisite strength and durability characteristics such that when it
is hit by a game piece, it will not break, crack, fail or be
damaged. An example of a suitable material is three-eighths inch
steel, aluminum or plastic machined or molded to have an opening 31
as described above or any other configuration which will allow its
attachment onto the goal. In the case of FIGS. 1 and 2, basketball
hoop 10.
[0041] The elongated member 50 may be attached to clamp 30 by any
appropriate means such as for example a pin fastener, rivet or
screw. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, a hole 54 (not shown) is formed
through elongated member 50 which mates and communicates with a
hole 35 in clamp 30 and a pin 41 is inserted which extends through
holes 35 and 54 to hold elongated member 50 to clamp 30. The
elongated member 50 also may be bonded or glued to the clamp
30.
[0042] When device 20 is configured for use with a basketball hoop
10, the elongated member 50 and ball 60 are configured so that
distance "L" shown in FIG. 2 is approximately two to approximately
four inches so that when the device 20 is placed on the rim 5, the
ball 60 forming the target is approximately two to approximately
four inches directly above the rim. In the embodiments shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2, elongated member 50 is approximately one and
one-half inches long, cylindrical in shape with a half-inch
diameter and made of black neoprene rubber having a durometer of
70A. The ball 60 is spherical in shape with a one and one-half inch
diameter and is made of bright yellow rubber having a softer
durometer than the elongated member 50.
[0043] When using the device 20 for basketball, it should be placed
on the front of the rim 5 so that the shooter aims at the target
member 60 which is positioned directly above the front of the rim
5. When shooting a basketball, a player aims for and shoots at the
ball 60 forming the target member. The ball 60, which is
approximately two to four inches and, more preferably,
approximately three inches higher and directly above the front of
the rim 5 not only will give the shooter a highly visible target
but will teach the art of shooting over the front of the rim, not
at it. The shooter using the device 20 over time will develop a
sense of where and how to shoot the basketball and greatly improve
his/her shooting skills. In fact, in time and with enough use, the
shooter will be able to mentally visualize the target even when the
device 20 is not actually attached to the hoop.
[0044] Referring to FIG. 3, device 20 has been dimensioned,
configured and adapted for a football player kicking field goals.
The clamp 30 and its openings 31 and 32 are dimensioned and
configured to attach to a football field goalpost. An opening 32 of
four to five inches should be suitable. In this embodiment, the
dimension "L" shown in FIG. 2 will be adapted specifically for
kicking field goals and may be from about one to about twelve feet
and preferably from about six to about nine feet in order to place
the bulk of material or target member 60 in a location above the
horizontal bottom goalpost 7 which is suitable for kicking field
goals. The elongated member 50 preferably may be adjustable in
length so that the bulk of material 60 can be properly adjusted for
kicking field goals and also easily collapsible for transport. The
size of the bulk of material 60 may be increased as compared to the
embodiment used for basketball, for example to a sphere having a
one-foot diameter, and its shape changed to provide a more visible
target for the field goal kicker. The diameter (width) of elongated
member 50 is also sized in this embodiment to account for the added
length and increased size of the bulk material 60.
[0045] The elongated member 50 of the embodiment used for football
may be resiliently flexible such that it bends when it or the
target 60 is struck or alternatively the connection of the
elongated member 50 to the clamp 30 may be such that elongated
member 50 moves in a manner which does not materially alter the
trajectory of the football when the elongated member 50 or target
member 60 is struck by the football. Elongated member 50 may be
formed of rigid tubular sections which may be connected to a spring
or resilient flexible materials connected together. Alternatively,
or in addition to, telescoping concentric cylinders of material may
be used for elongated member 50.
[0046] The device 20 of FIG. 3 provides a target or focus for the
field goal kicker to aim at as opposed to an empty area between the
two uprights of a goalpost. In this manner, the field goal kicker
will obtain a sense of where to aim when kicking and will improve
his/her kicking accuracy and skills. After obtaining the sense of
where to aim, the kicker will be able to kick more accurately even
when the device 20 is not in place because of the mental image
retained by the kicker.
[0047] Referring to FIG. 4, the device 20 has been configured and
adapted for attachment to a soccer goalpost. In this embodiment,
clamp 30 is configured and adapted to attach to a goalpost or
crossbar of soccer goal 10. The shape of the opening 31 in clamp 30
may be configured specifically to fit a crossbar or goalpost having
a square cross-section as is sometimes provided with soccer goals.
The elongated member 50 and ball 60 are configured and adapted to
place the ball 60 within the plane formed by the goalposts and the
crossbar and at a location approximately one foot from the end
surface 34 of the clamp 30. The materials of elongated member 50
and bulk of material 60 are chosen so that they can withstand the
shock of flying soccer balls. In use, the device 20 may be placed
in the lower corners or any other desirable location of the soccer
goal to provide a target for the shooter.
[0048] Again, by providing a target for the player to aim at
instead of an empty space between goalposts and crossbars, the
player develops a feel and a sense of where to aim when shooting at
the goal and improves his/her shooting ability. After using the
device 20 for a period of time, the player should be left with a
metal impression of the target and, thus, be able to improve
his/her accuracy even when the device is not actually connected to
the goal.
[0049] It can be appreciated how device 20 can be adapted for a
hockey goal, lacrosse goal and other sports where shooting accuracy
comes into play. The device 20 likewise can be adapted for use in
tennis, for instance by attaching it to the net or supporting
structure of the net and placing the bulk of material or target
member 60 several inches above the net thus providing the tennis
player with a target to aim at when hitting (serving or returning)
the tennis ball.
[0050] A further embodiment of device 20 includes using a light
and, preferably, a flashing light as the target member 60 or
incorporating a light 65 and, preferably, a flashing light 65, as
shown in FIG. 5, into the bulk member 60 so that the target is
highly visible. This feature is particularly advantageous for those
sports where the goal is at a distance from the player.
[0051] An advantage of device 20 is that it can be used during
practice drills, scrimmages or games without substantially
interfering with the game. Because of its simple construction and
direct attachment to the goal, the game will be substantially
unaffected by its use. In addition, because it readily can be
attached and detached to the goal, the device 20 can be removed
easily or set up depending upon the player's desire.
[0052] FIG. 6 shows a different embodiment of the clamp. The clamp
130 is a modified vise-clamp with an upper jaw 133 and a lower jaw
134. Upper jaw 133 can be attached to elongated member 50 as
described above. Upper jaw 133 has an arcuate section 139, with a
radius configured to rest on the basketball hoop 10 and provide a
tight grip when the lower jaw 134 is engaged. A bore 135 is formed
in upper jaw 133 that has a threaded portion 136. The lower jaw 134
has a arcuate section 132 with a radius that creates a tight fit
with the basketball hoop 10 when the lower jaw 134 is engaged with
the upper jaw 133. An arcuate section 138 is configured to
accommodate netting or a netting clip, in the event that the
device's desired location along the circumference of the hoop 10
contains such an obstacle, without reducing the tightness of the
fit and without marring the device or the hoop 10. Set screw 137 is
preferably rotatably attached to lower jaw 134 and is threaded to
cooperate with the threads 136 in bore 135. A knob 142 is attached
to the end of the set screw 137 to allow for hand tightening and
loosening of the device. In the alternative, the knob 142 may be
replaced with a tab or wing-nut configuration, or may be replaced
with a screw head.
[0053] Once the desired position of the device is determined, the
device rests on hoop 10 by means of arcuate section 139 on upper
jaw 133. Lower jaw 134 is engaged by inserting the set screw 137
into bore 135 and turning knob 142 until clamp 130 forms a tight
grip on hoop 10.
[0054] The clamp 130 should be made of a material that is durable
enough to withstand the repeated impact of a basketball, but should
not damage or mar the basketball. Examples of suitable materials
are steel, aluminum or plastic. The upper jaw 133 and the lower jaw
134 must separate, in the open position, at least approximately
five-eighths of an inch wide so as to allow the hoop 11 and any
possible netting or netting clip to pass between. Preferably, this
distance is wider so as to accommodate the non-standard hoops and
reinforced hoops common to most public basketball courts.
[0055] In a different embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8,
the elongated member 50 may be attached to the clamp 30 in a manner
which allows it to move, pivot or deflect when the ball 60 is
struck by the game piece so that the ball allows the game piece to
pass without substantially affecting the trajectory of the game
piece. After the game piece has deflected the ball 60 and passed
through the hoop, the elongated member 50 returns to its original
position to reset the target (ball 60) for the next shot.
[0056] In FIG. 7, elongated member 50 comprises shell 230 which is
attached to the bulk member (not shown) at one end and has a hollow
cavity 235. Inside cavity 235, a cross-piece 221 with hole 226
supports one end of a tube or strip 222. The strip 222 may be
resilient such as, for example, what is referred to as a "bungee
cord" or a spring or rubber insert.
[0057] The resilient strip 222 is prevented from passing through
hole 226 by way of a knot 223. Alternative fasteners such as a pin,
tab or washer may be utilized in lieu of the knot 223. The opposite
end of strip 222 passes through hole 227 in dome 224. Dome 224,
which in this example is hemispherical, can be formed integral with
clamp 225 (shown, in part) or may be affixed to clamp 225 by any
suitable means. Shell 230 has contours 228 configured and adapted
to cooperate with dome 224. The strip 222 is also prevented from
passing through hole 227 by way of a knot 223, or alternatively, as
above with a pin, tab, washer or other suitable fastener.
[0058] It is preferable that when utilizing this embodiment of the
elongated member 50, that bulk member 60 (not shown) be attachable
to the elongated member 250 such that the strip 222 can be easily
replaced by the user in the event that it breaks. Likewise, dome
224 is preferably attachable to the clamp 225.
[0059] The elongated member of this embodiment can be made from
metal, plastic or rubber or combinations thereof providing it can
withstand repeated impact by a basketball. One example of the
elongated member of this embodiment is one and one-half inches in
length and has a diameter of approximately one-half inch.
[0060] In its initial or home position (as shown in FIG. 7) the
shell 230 is seated upon the dome 224. The resilient strip 222 is
under slight tension. When the bulk member (not shown) is struck by
the basketball, the shell 230 is deflected and/or displaced from
the home position to a break-away position (shown in FIG. 8).
[0061] In a break-away position. The shell 230 is no longer seated
on the dome 224, but may be (depending upon the force of the impact
and the resiliency of the strip 222) still in contact with the dome
224. When displaced to a break-away position, the strip 222 is
under a greater tension than its tension in the home position. When
the basketball ceases to act on or make contact with the bulk
member (not shown) this increased tension will pull the shell 230
and the bulk member (not shown) back toward the home position as
shown in FIG. 7. The dome 224 is configured and adapted to
cooperate with contours 228 and ensures that the shell 230 and bulk
member (not shown) will realign automatically for the next shot.
The resiliency of the strip 222 is such that the elongated member
will deflect without altering the trajectory of the basketball.
[0062] A different embodiment of the elongated member is
illustrated by FIG. 9. The elongated member 50, in this embodiment,
comprises a shell 80 and an insert 81. Both shell 80 and insert 81
may be resiliently flexible or the insert alone or shell alone may
be resiliently flexible. The resiliency of the shell 80 and the
insert 81 are such that the combination deflects when the bulk
member (not shown) is struck by the basketball such that the
basketball's trajectory is not substantially altered and returns
the bulk member (not shown) to its original position. The shell 80
may be made of the same materials as the bulk member (not shown)
and the shell and the bulk member may be formed integrally. The
shell 80 and insert 81 can be formed of rubber, plastic, a coiled
metal spring, or any other suitable material.
[0063] In one embodiment of FIG. 9 which has shown promise, the
insert 81 is wire and the shell 80 is a rubber or plastic coating
applied directly onto and over the wire, such as, for example,
plastic covered cable wire. The wire may be in the form of multiple
wires which may be stranded together. The wire may be formed of
steel or other metals, such as, for example, copper or aluminum,
while the coating may be rubber, urethanes, polyethylenes,
polyamides, etc. One exemplary shell and insert combination which
shows promise for basketball has numerous bundles of 20-gauge steel
wire bundled and stranded together to form a core insert of
approximately one-eighth of an inch coated with clear polyethylene
for a total diameter of approximately one-quarter of an inch. These
dimensions and materials are exemplary only and the thickness,
dimensions, and configuration of the shell and insert depends upon
the material selected and the sporting event for which the device
is intended.
[0064] The shell 80 can be attached to the clamp (not shown) by
means of a force-fit, friction fit, screw, pin, rivet or any other
suitable fastening means. The insert may be attached to the shell
80 or may be attached to the clamp (not shown) or attached to bulk
member or any combination thereof. In the alternative, the insert
81 may float freely inside the shell 80. In the alternative, the
insert 81 may be omitted.
[0065] Referring to FIG. 10, a different embodiment of the clamp of
the device is shown. Clamp 230 is formed by two legs 252 and 254
which append from a body portion 258 each having an arcuate portion
260, 261 and 259 respectively. Arcuate portions 259, 260 and 261
are configured and adapted to cooperate and communicate so as to
form a tight grip on the basketball hoop 10. Leg 252 is immobile.
Leg 254 is mobile such that it can be swung in the direction of
arrow 280 to an open position 255 (shown by the dotted lines 285)
and be swung to a closed position (as shown). Leg 254 is attached
to body 258 by means of a pin hinge assembly 263 or, alternatively,
by means of a living hinge. In an alternative embodiment, both legs
252 and 254 may be attached to body 258 by means of a hinge. Both
legs have threads 253 which are designed to cooperate and
communicate with a tightening nut 257. The base portion 258, the
right leg 252 and the left leg 254 can be formed from metal,
rubber, or plastic.
[0066] To attach the device, leg 254 is swung into the open
position 255 and the clamp 230 is passed over the hoop 10 such that
arcuate portions 259 and 260 of this clamp 230 contact the hoop
256. Leg 254 is then swung into the closed position (as shown).
Tightening nut 257 which is threaded to cooperate and communicate
with threads 253 is rotated onto legs 252 and 254 to keep them from
separating and to form a tight grip on hoop 10.
[0067] Referring to FIG. 11, a different embodiment of the clamp is
shown. Clamp 330 is connected to elongated member 350 (shown in
part). Clamp 330 has a base portion 395 having an arcuate section
396 configured and adapted to receive and grip the basketball hoop
10. Appended to the base 395 is a fabric strap 393. A locking cam
394 is attached to the side of the base 395 opposite to the
location where the fabric strap 393 is connected to the base 395.
The locking cam 394 is shown in its open position.
[0068] Referring to FIG. 12, the embodiment of FIG. 11 is shown
attached to basketball hoop 10. The fabric strip 393 has been
looped around the basketball hoop 10 below the base 395 through cam
394. Cam 394 then depresses into its locked position as shown to
hold the strap 393 tightly in place against the basketball hoop 10
so that the clamp 330 does not rotate or displace relative to the
basketball hoop 10 when the bulk member (not shown) is struck
repeatedly by the basketball.
[0069] Referring to FIG. 13, the clamp is formed from a flexible
tubular member 430 which may be curved or straight. The tubular
member 430 has an inner surface 435 adapted to receive and grip the
hoop (not shown). The tubular member 430 has a longitudinal slit
440. Elongated member 450 is attached to the outside surface 436 of
the tubular member 430 and extends perpendicularly from the outside
surface. The bulk member 460 is attached to the opposite end of
elongated member 450. The slit 440 is spread apart and depressed
upon the upper surface of a basketball hoop as tubular member 430
is simultaneously bent into place. The length of the tubular member
430 is less than the circumference of the basketball hoop and
preferably 3-10 inches. The outer surface 436 of the tubular member
430 is preferably colored a similar red orange as standard
basketball hoops. The inner surface may be tacky, or roughed with
grooves or bumps to enhance the grip or friction fit of the tubular
member 430. Velcro straps 445 may be attached to the tubular member
430 to assist and enhance the gripping force of the tubular member
430 on the rim to prevent the device from rotating. In a further
embodiment, a plurality of elongated members with attached bulk
members may spaced along the length of the clamp, approximately one
hand width apart or greater to allow for "dunking."
[0070] The tubular member 430 may be formed of rubber or plastic
and may be reinforced with metal, plastic or rubber. The tubular
member 430 may be formed from a plurality of layers or plies. The
tubular member 430 must be flexible to depress onto and grip a
basketball hoop but retain enough torsional stability so that the
elongated member 450 and the bulk member 460 do not rotate or
displace relative to the basketball hoop.
[0071] FIG. 14 shows yet a different embodiment of the clamp, Clamp
530 comprises a resilient clip having two legs 532, 534 connected
by a flexible connecting member 536. Flexible connecting member 536
biases the legs 532, 534 together to exert a force on the rim when
it is held between the legs. Flanges or protruding bumps 538 may be
provided on the end of legs 532, 534 to help prevent the clamp 530
from slipping off of the hoop or rim. Handles or leg extensions
542, 544 may be provided on each of legs 532, 534 respectively. The
handles 542, 544 are squeezed together by the user in order to flex
flexible connecting member 536 to spread open legs 532, 534 to slip
the clamp 530 over the basketball rim. Releasing handles 542, 544
closes clamp 530 down on the basketball hoop. Legs 532, 534 may be
provided with arcuate sections 535 to assist in holding legs 532,
534 on the basketball hoop. The inner surface of the legs and
particularly the arcuate sections may be tacky or roughened with
grooves or projections to further enhance the grip or friction-fit
of clamp 530. Handles 542, 544 may be hinged to fold away and be
unobtrusive after the clamp 530 has been attached to the basketball
rim. The handles 542, 544 can be squeezed together to remove the
shooting aid from the basketball hoop. The elongated member 50 may
be attached to the upper leg 532 of clamp 530 by any of the methods
described earlier. The clamp 530 may be made of any number of
materials including aluminum, steel or plastic so long as the
connecting member 536 is stiff enough to provide enough force to
legs 532, 534 to retain the clamp in place. Legs 532, 534 should be
formed of, sized and configured such that they do not substantially
deform under the force applied by the flexible connecting member
536.
[0072] FIG. 15 shows a clamp resembling a conventional clothes pin
which is similar to clamp 530 of FIG. 14. Clamp 630 in FIG. 15 has
two legs 632, 634 which have arcuate sections 535 which are
configured to grip and attach to the basketball rim 5. Legs 632,
634 are connected by a spring 636 so that end 633 of leg 632 is
biased into contact with end 637 of leg 634. Legs 632, 634 have
handles or leg extensions 642, 644 which a user squeezes together
to overcome the force applied by the spring 636 to open the ends
633, 637 to slip the clamp over the basketball rim 5. Handles 642,
644 are released so that clamp 630 engages and holds the clamp 630
on rim 5. Spring 636 is designed to provide enough force so that
legs 632, 634 engage the rim 5 so that it does not rotate or move
when the target 60 is hit with the basketball. Arcuate section 635
may be provided with grooves or projections to enhance the clamp's
grip on the hoop. Legs 632, 634 can be made of metal, plastics or
other materials so long that they have the requisite strength so as
not to deform substantially over time so that the gripping force is
not diminished and so it can withstand the impact of flying
basketballs. Legs 632, 634 may be provided with hinges or other
means to allow handles 642, 644 to be moved out of the way after
the clamp is attached to the rim.
[0073] Although particular embodiments of the invention have been
described and illustrated herein, it is recognized that
modifications and variations readily may occur to those skilled in
the art and, consequently, it is intended that the claims be
interpreted to cover such modifications and equivalents.
* * * * *