U.S. patent application number 10/272228 was filed with the patent office on 2004-04-22 for throwing technique trainer.
Invention is credited to Goucher, Steve, Nye, William S..
Application Number | 20040077436 10/272228 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32092581 |
Filed Date | 2004-04-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040077436 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Goucher, Steve ; et
al. |
April 22, 2004 |
Throwing technique trainer
Abstract
This invention relates to a device for training an athlete to
throw a ball. The device includes an elbow guide, ball guide, pole,
and base structure. The pole is coupled with the base structure.
The elbow guide and ball guide are attached to the pole.
Inventors: |
Goucher, Steve; (Mercer
Island, WA) ; Nye, William S.; (Seattle, WA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MILLER NASH LLP
4400 TWO UNION SQUARE
601 UNION STREET
SEATTLE
WA
98101-2352
US
|
Family ID: |
32092581 |
Appl. No.: |
10/272228 |
Filed: |
October 16, 2002 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
473/451 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 47/007 20130101;
A63B 69/0057 20130101; A63B 2208/12 20130101; A63B 2069/0006
20130101; A63B 2210/50 20130101; A63B 2225/093 20130101; A63B
69/0002 20130101; A63B 71/023 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/451 |
International
Class: |
A63B 069/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A device for training an athlete to throw a ball, said device
comprising: (a) an elbow guide; (b) a ball guide; (c) a pole; (d)
said elbow guide and said ball guide attached to said pole; (e) a
base structure; and (f) said pole coupled with said base
structure.
2. The device of claim 1, further comprising said elbow guide is:
(a) adjustably attached to said pole; (b) removably attached to
said pole; or (c) permanently attached to said pole.
3. The device of claim 1, further comprising said ball guide is:
(a) adjustably attached to said pole; (b) removably attached to
said pole; or (c) permanently attached to said pole.
4. The device of claim 1, further comprising said elbow guide, said
ball guide, and said pole being a one-piece unit.
5. The device of claim 1, wherein said elbow guide has an elbow
guide length and said ball guide has a ball guide length, said
elbow guide length being longer than a length of said ball guide
length.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein said ball guide has a ball guide
length and said elbow guide has an elbow guide length, said ball
guide length being longer than a length of said elbow guide
length.
7. The device of claim 1, further comprising said elbow guide is
independently adjustable.
8. The device of claim 1, further comprising said ball guide is
independently adjustable.
9. The device of claim 1, further comprising said base structure
is: (a) a storage structure; (b) a surface structure; or (c) a
attachment structure.
10. The device of claim 1, further comprising said base structure
is: (a) capable of accommodating at least one ball; (b) capable of
being manipulated; or (c) interchangeable with a second base
structure.
11. The device of claim 1, said base structure further comprising a
lid, said lid removably attached to said base structure.
12. The device of claim 1, further comprising said pole is: (a)
telescopically adjustable; (b) a one-piece unit; or (c)
separable.
13. The device of claim 1, further comprising: (a) said pole is
hollow; (b) a tee; (b) said tee coupled with said base structure;
and (c) said pole removably surrounding said tee.
14. The device of claim 1, further comprising a ball having a
visual indicator located on a surface of said ball.
15. The device of claim 1, further comprising a ball having a
audible indicator located on a surface of said ball.
16. A method of training an athlete to throw a ball, said method
comprising the steps of: (a) providing a device, said device
comprising an elbow guide, a ball guide, a pole, said elbow guide
and said ball guide attached to said pole, a base structure, said
pole coupled with said base structure; and (b) said method
comprising the steps of placing a ball on said ball guide, said
athlete placing an elbow on said elbow guide, and said athlete
gripping said ball located on said ball guide.
17. The method of claim 16, further comprising adjusting said elbow
guide and said ball guide to a desired position on said pole.
18. The method of claim 16, further comprising adjusting said elbow
guide and said ball guide to accommodate a left-handed athlete.
19. The method of claim 16, further comprising adjusting said elbow
guide and said ball guide to accommodate a right-handed
athlete.
20. The method of claim 16, further comprising: (a) providing a
tee; (b) coupling said tee to said base structure; (c) providing a
hollow pole removably surrounding said tee; and (d) removing said
hollow pole from said base structure, thereby uncovering said
tee.
21. The method of claim 16, further comprising providing a device
as a one-piece unit.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to a device for training an athlete
to throw a ball.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0002] Proper throwing technique begins with the positioning of the
lower body. For example, in baseball, a pitcher starts with his
back foot perpendicular to home plate. The pitcher's front foot is
pointed directly at home plate. Whether the back foot is the left
or right foot depends on the dominant throwing hand used by the
pitcher.
[0003] After the lower body is positioned, the athlete positions
the upper body. Continuing with the baseball example, a pitcher
backwardly extends the throwing arm elbow, with the elbow
preferably extending at an angle greater than ninety degrees in
relation to the athlete's body. The pitcher's hand rotates so that
the palm of the hand is facing away from the pitcher's body. The
pitcher then rotates his body, commencing the throwing phase. In
the throwing phase, the pitcher's elbow automatically leads the
pitcher's arm, with the elbow being at least as high as the
pitcher's shoulder when it moves by the pitcher's head. The
pitcher's hand follows the elbow forward, and as the hand gets
closer to the release point, it moves further away from the head
toward full extension. By the time the arm is fully extended, the
ball has been released and the hand is out in front of the body.
The hand pronates as a reaction to the pitcher's throwing action.
At the same time, the arm opposite the pitcher's throwing arm is
brought back into the pitcher's body, with the weight on the
pitcher's back foot transferring to the pitcher's front foot.
[0004] As is obvious from the aforementioned, proper throwing
technique is comprised of many specific body positions and
movements. The forces acting on an athlete's upper and lower body
during positioning and movement create a significant amount of
tension on the athlete's body, and more specifically, the athlete's
shoulders, elbows, and arms. Proper throwing technique is
imperative in order to prevent injuries to the athlete. Athletes on
every level, and particularly young athletes, suffer irreparable
injury to their arms, elbows, and shoulders because they do not
throw a ball with proper throwing technique.
[0005] For example, the shoulder joint, also known as the
glenohumeral joint, is held together by surrounding muscles and is
therefore mobile. It is reinforced above by the supraspinatus
muscle, in front by the subscapularis muscle, and behind by the
infraspinatus and teres minor muscles. These muscles originate on
the scapula and insert on the humeral head, forming a
musculotendinous "rotator cuff." When the rotator cuff is
compromised or fatigued from repetitive throwing or improper
throwing techniques, the larger muscles surrounding the shoulder
are subject to potential damage because they do not effectively act
on the joint.
[0006] The ulnar collateral ligament ("UCL"), located on the inside
of the elbow, is another ligament commonly injured due to improper
throwing techniques. When improper throwing techniques are used or
arm muscles become fatigued, the forces acting on the UCL can
significantly increase. These forces can cause small micro-tears in
the UCL. If the athlete continues to micro-tear his UCL without
allowing enough time for the UCL to heal, the micro-tears may
eventually become one large tear in the UCL.
[0007] In addition to the injuries, improper throwing techniques
lead to lesser performance standards by an athlete. Improper
throwing techniques adversely affect both the power and accuracy of
an athlete's throw.
[0008] Frequency of injuries and lesser performance standards
indicates that there is a need for a device that teaches proper
throwing techniques to an athlete. Many devices have been invented
that help teach and train both inexperienced and experienced
athletes various techniques for throwing a ball. These devices,
however, are generally deficient in that they require an apparatus
to be attached to an athlete's body while throwing, only provide
audible indications as to whether a ball has been properly thrown,
or require the use of manipulated or physically adjusted balls or
devices.
[0009] For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,553,846 to Frye et al., U.S.
Pat. No. 475,432 to Blades, U.S. Pat. No. 4,911,728 to Rigel, U.S.
Pat. No. 4,984,789 to Socci, U.S. Pat. No. 5,348,292 to Norman Sr.,
and U.S. Pat. No. 5,403,002 to Brunty disclose devices that provide
methods of teaching proper throwing technique by strapping an
apparatus to an athlete's body. The problem with these devices is
that the athlete's movements may be restricted by the device, the
device may take a significant amount of time to set up, and the
athlete may need assistance strapping the device on and off the
athlete's body.
[0010] U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,830,091 and 6,024,660 to Romanick and U.S.
Pat. No. 5,354,050 to McCarthy disclose throwing devices that
provide audible indications to alert the athlete when the ball was
properly thrown. The problem with these devices is that they are
focused on how the ball rotates when thrown, and do not assist the
athlete with proper body positioning.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 4,846,471 to Haysom and U.S. Pat. No.
5,472,187 to Kempf disclose throwing devices that are physically
adjusted or manipulated balls. These physically adjusted or
manipulated balls allow the athlete to discern when a ball has been
properly thrown. The problem with these devices is that the athlete
may have to adjust his or her hand and fingers around the
adjustments or manipulations located on the ball. Further, the
devices are focused on how the ball rotates when thrown, and do not
assist the athlete with proper body positioning.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] This invention relates to a device for training an athlete
to throw a ball. The device includes an elbow guide, ball guide,
pole, and base structure. The pole is coupled with the base
structure. The elbow guide and ball guide are attached to the
pole.
[0013] The foregoing and other objectives, features, and advantages
of the invention will be more readily understood upon consideration
of the following detailed description of the invention, taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing an exemplary embodiment of a
throwing technique trainer device of the present invention.
[0015] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing, in an enlarged view of a pole,
elbow guide, and ball guide, alternate features of the exemplary
embodiment of the throwing technique trainer device shown in FIG.
1.
[0016] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an enlarged side view of
alternate features of the pole, elbow guide, and ball guide of the
exemplary embodiment of the throwing technique trainer device shown
in FIG. 1, shown with the throwing arm of a subject.
[0017] FIG. 4 illustrates a first alternate embodiment of the
exemplary embodiment of the throwing technique trainer device shown
in FIG. 1.
[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates a second alternate embodiment of the
exemplary embodiment of the throwing technique trainer device shown
in FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0019] This invention relates to a throwing technique trainer
device 10 for training an athlete to throw a ball. Specifically,
the device 10 teaches an athlete the proper arm and body positions
for throwing a ball 60.
[0020] FIGS. 1-5 detail an exemplary embodiment of the throwing
technique trainer device 10 of the present invention including
several variations thereof. Generally, the device 10 includes a
base structure 20, pole 30, elbow guide 40, and ball guide 50.
[0021] I. Base Structure
[0022] The base structure 20, such as the exemplary preferred
embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1, 4, and 5, defines the lower
portion of the device 10 of the present invention. The base
structure 20 provides a method for anchoring or attaching the
throwing technique trainer device 10 to a location.
[0023] For purposes of the throwing technique trainer device 10 of
the present invention, the desired location may be the ground,
paved surface, floor, or other similar structure. The base
structure 20 may be manufactured in any size or shape to fit around
obstacles or to conform to size restrictions or requirements
presented by the athlete or the location where the device 10 is to
be used.
[0024] There are various preferred embodiments of the base
structure 20, including a storage structure embodiment, a surface
structure embodiment, and an attachable embodiment. Further, there
are various optional features that may be used with the various
embodiments of the base structure 20, including a weight feature,
adaptable feature, and a modular feature. Regardless of the base
structure 20 embodiment or optional base structure 20 features, it
is preferred that the base structure 20 be capable of coupling with
the pole. "Coupling" is defined as being removably or permanently
attached.
[0025] In the embodiment of the base structure 20 shown in FIG. 1,
the base structure 20 also functions as a storage structure 22
capable of accommodating at least one ball 60 ("storage structure
embodiment"). The storage structure 22 may be a bucket or pail
capable of accommodating the at least one ball 60. The storage
structure embodiment 20 allows an athlete to transport the device
to various locations without having to separately transport the
balls 60.
[0026] Optionally, and as shown in FIG. 1, the storage structure
embodiment 20 includes a lid 24 capable of removably attaching to
the storage structure 22. The purpose of the lid 24 is to provide
protection to the balls 60 or other supplies accommodated within
the storage structure embodiment 20, and when transported, ensure
that the balls 60 or other supplies remain within the storage
structure 20. The lid 24 may be manufactured to cover the entire
opening of the storage structure 22. Alternately, the lid may be
manufactured with an opening having a diameter greater than the
diameter of the pole 30. The opening allows the pole 30 to
vertically extend from the storage structure 22.
[0027] In the embodiment of the base structure 20 shown in FIG. 4,
the base structure 20 is a surface structure capable of anchoring
the throwing technique trainer device 10 to on the ground or other
flat surface ("surface structure embodiment"). The surface
structure 20 may be manufactured in any shape, including the shape
of a home plate, square, circle, rectangle, or triangle. Further,
the surface structure 20 may be custom-made to conform to size or
obstacle restrictions or requirements.
[0028] In the embodiment of the base structure 20 of the device 10
shown in FIG. 5, the base structure 20 is attachable to a location
("attachable embodiment"). The attachable embodiment 20 contains at
least one attachment structure 28 that may be a clip-on structure,
a pole-attachment structure, or, as shown in FIG. 5, a hook and
loop attachment. The attachable embodiment 20 allows the throwing
technique trainer device 10 to be attached to a location of any
shape, at any height. For example, if an athlete desires to use the
throwing technique trainer device 10 in a playground, the athlete
may attach the at least one attachment structure 28 of the
attachable embodiment 20 to a basketball hoop pole, a fence, or a
tree. If more than one attachment structure is used, it is
preferred that the first attachment structure be the base structure
20. Any additional attachment structures may be located at varying
heights on the pole 30.
[0029] In addition to the storage structure embodiment, surface
structure embodiment, and attachable embodiment, there are various
optional base structure 20 features that may be used with any of
the base structure 20 embodiments. The optional base structure 20
features include a weight feature, adaptable feature, and a modular
feature.
[0030] A first optional feature of the base structure 20 is a
weight feature, wherein a weight is integrally connected with the
base structure 20. The weight feature prevents the throwing
technique trainer device 10 from falling or tipping over during use
or inclement weather conditions. The weight material may be
manufactured from plastic, wood, cement, concrete, glass, sand,
water, or any other material capable of providing weight to the
base structure.
[0031] A second optional feature of the base structure 20 is an
adaptable feature, wherein the base structure 20 is capable of
being manipulated into a desired shape. The adaptable feature
allows the athlete to physically manipulate or adjust the base
structure 20 into various fixed positions. This feature may be
preferred in situations where the base structure 20 is required to
fit around obstacles or conform to size restrictions or
requirements. If the adaptable feature is used, the base structure
20 may be manufactured from plastic, rubber, or any other material
capable of being manipulated or adjusted into a fixed position.
[0032] A third optional feature is a modular feature, wherein the
base structure 20 has interchangeable base structure 20
embodiments. With the modular feature, the athlete may couple any
base structure 20 embodiment to the pole 30. This allows the
throwing technique trainer device 10 to be attached or anchored to
any location, regardless of obstacles or size restrictions or
requirements.
[0033] II. Pole
[0034] Extending vertically from the base structure 20 is a pole
30. The pole 30 may be manufactured from plastic, wood, metal,
concrete, rubber or any other material capable of extending
vertically from the base structure 20.
[0035] There are various embodiments of the pole 30 of the present
invention. The pole 30 may be manufactured as a one-piece unit,
telescopically adjustable, or separable. In addition to the various
pole 30 embodiments, the pole 30 may include optional pole 30
features, such as a hollow feature and a tee feature.
[0036] In the embodiment of the pole 30 shown in FIG. 1 the pole 30
is telescopically adjustable ("telescopically adjustable
embodiment"). In the telescopically adjustable embodiment, the pole
30 is manufactured from at least two segments. Each pole segment
should be of varying diameters. For example, if two pole segments
are used with the telescopically adjustable embodiment, the first
segment, which is coupled with the base structure, should have a
greater or lesser diameter than the second pole segment, which is
fitted within and directly above the first pole segment.
[0037] The purpose of the telescopically adjustable embodiment is
to allow the pole 30 to extend or lower to a desired height. For
example, if the throwing technique trainer device 10 is being used
by an athlete, the at least two pole segments may be extended to a
desired height. After use of the device 10, the athlete may lower
the at least two pole segments and easily transport the throwing
technique trainer device 10.
[0038] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the pole 30 is comprised
of at least two pole segments that are capable of being connected
or separated from each other ("separable embodiment"). The purpose
of the separable embodiment is to allow the device 10 to be easily
transported or stored by providing for the individual connection or
separation of the at least two pole segments. In the separable
embodiment, the at least two pole segments can be connected or
separated to provide a desired height of the throwing technique
trainer device 10. After use, the at least two pole segments may be
separated and transported or stored. The at least two pole segments
may be connected with a variety of connecting structures, which
include but are not limited to, screws, nails, brackets, or hooks
and loops.
[0039] In addition to the one-piece unit, adjustable, or separable
pole embodiments, there are various optional pole 30 features that
may be used with the pole 30 embodiments of the throwing technique
trainer device 10. In a first optional feature, the pole is
manufactured such that it is hollow ("hollow feature").
[0040] In a second optional feature, a tee 32 is removably
surrounded by a hollow pole 30 ("tee feature"). A tee 32 is a
structure commonly known in the sports industry, and is typically
used in the sports of baseball and softball. A tee 32 is a tubular
structure that vertically extends from the ground. In use, a ball
60 is placed on the tee 32 and hit with a bat or other type of
wooden, rubber, or plastic hitting apparatus.
[0041] The tee is removably surrounded by the pole 30. To
manufacture a tee 32 capable of being removably surrounded by the
pole 30, the pole 30 should have a diameter that is greater than
the diameter of the tee 32. If an athlete desires to hit a ball 60,
the pole 30 may be uncoupled with the base structure 20, thereby
uncovering the tee 32. If after hitting a ball 60 or plurality of
balls 60, the athlete desires to use the throwing technique trainer
device 10, the athlete may place the pole 30 over the tee 32.
[0042] The tee 32 may be manufactured as a one-piece unit coupled
with the base structure 20. The tee 32 may be coupled with the base
structure 20 using a coupling structure such as a tapered collet,
at least one screw, at least one nail, adhesive, hook and 10 loop
attachment, or any other coupling structure that couples the tee 32
with the base structure 20.
[0043] As state above, the pole 30 is coupled with the base
structure 20. There are various preferred embodiments for coupling
the pole 30 with the base structure 20 including raised attachment
coupling, holding coupling, and permanent attachment.
[0044] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the pole 30 is oppositely
coupled with the base structure 20 using a raised attachment
structure 34 ("raised attachment coupling embodiment"). The raised
attachment structure 34 is located on and extends vertically from
the base structure 20. Preferably, the raised attachment structure
34 is the same shape as the pole 30. The raised attachment
structure 34 may be of a smaller or 20 larger diameter than the
pole 30. In use, either a hollow portion of the pole 30 is placed
on the raised attachment structure 34 or a hollow coupler engages
the pole's outer diameter 30, thereby oppositely coupling the pole
30 with the base structure 20.
[0045] FIG. 1 also shows an embodiment wherein the pole 30 is
coupled with the base structure 20 using a holding structure 36
("holding coupling embodiment"). In the holding coupling
embodiment, the holding structure 36 includes a piece of wood,
plastic or other material ("base material") capable of coupling
with at least one holding bracket.
[0046] The holding structure 36 also includes at least one holding
bracket, which may be a u-shaped bracket or other apparatus capable
of being screwed, nailed, or otherwise coupled with the base
material.
[0047] The holding structure 36 may be molded or otherwise formed
in the base structure 20. In a permanent attachment embodiment of
coupling the pole 30 to the base structure 20, the base structure
20 may be permanently attached to the pole 30, or the base
structure 20 and the pole 30 may be constructed as a one-piece
unit.
[0048] To otherwise form the holding structure 36, a portion of the
base structure 20 is placed between the base material and the at
least one holding bracket. The at least one holding bracket is
coupled with the base material through the base structure. As shown
in FIG. 1, the holding coupling embodiment provides a mechanism by
which the pole 30 may be inserted or removed from the base
structure 20 by sliding the pole 30 through the holding structure
36.
[0049] III. Elbow Rest and Ball Rest
[0050] As shown in FIGS. 1-5, attached to the pole 30 are two
guides: an elbow guide 40 and a ball guide 50. The purpose of the
elbow guide 40 and the ball guide 50 is to provide guidance to an
athletes arm, hand, and elbow when the athlete is learning and
practicing proper throwing techniques on the throwing technique
trainer device 10.
[0051] Although FIGS. 1-5 show one elbow guide 40 and one ball
guide 50, it should be understood that there may be at least two
elbow guides 40 and at least two ball guides 50 provided with the
throwing technique trainer device 10. If at least two elbow guides
40 are used, a first elbow guide 40 may be adjusted to a position
opposite a second elbow guide 40. Similarly, if at least two ball
guides 50 are used, a first ball guide 50 may be adjusted to a
position opposite a second ball guide 50. The at least two elbow
guides 40 and at least two ball guides 50 allow at least two
athlete's to utilize the throwing technique trainer device 10 at
the same time.
[0052] As shown in FIG. 3, the elbow guide 40 is attached to the
pole 30. Preferably, the elbow guide 40 is comprised of three
parts: an elbow attachment 42, an elbow beam 44, and an elbow rest
46.
[0053] The elbow attachment 42 attaches the elbow guide 40 to the
pole 30. The elbow attachment 42 may be any structure, apparatus,
or device that is capable of permanently, adjustably, or removably
attaching the elbow guide 40 to the pole 30. For example, FIGS. 2-5
show the elbow attachment 42 as a clasp and screw mechanism.
However, the elbow attachment 42 may also be a spring clamp as
shown in FIG. 1, a hook and loop attachment, a nail attachment, or
an attachment wherein the elbow attachment 42 is permanently
affixed or welded to the pole 30.
[0054] If the elbow attachment 42 is adjustably attached to the
pole 30, the elbow guide 40 may be raised or lowered to a desired
height on the pole 30. The adjustable elbow attachment 42 allows
athletes of varying heights to adjust the elbow guide 40 of the
throwing technique trainer device 10 to a height along the pole 30
that is equivalent to the optimum height of each individual
athlete's elbow. For example, if a 6'0" athlete has finished using
the throwing technique trainer device 10, and a 4'11" athlete
decides to use the same device 10, the 4'11" athlete may adjust the
elbow guide 40 to a lower height on the pole 30 so that the elbow
of the 4'11" athlete is comfortably supported by the elbow rest
46.
[0055] The elbow beam 44 is integrally connected to the elbow
attachment 42. The elbow beam 44 allows an athlete to position his
or her body far enough from the base structure 20 so as to allow
the athlete to move his or her feet without interference while
using the throwing technique trainer device 10 of the present
invention.
[0056] As shown in FIGS. 1-5, the elbow beam 44 defines the length
of the elbow guide 40. The elbow beam 44 also connects the elbow
attachment 42 and the elbow rest 46.
[0057] The elbow guide 40 may be independently adjusted using the
elbow beam 44. The length of the elbow guide 40 may be
independently adjusted by providing at least two holes 48 in the
elbow beam 44. The at least two holes 48 allow the elbow attachment
42 to integrally connect with the elbow beam 44 at varying
positions along the elbow beam 44. This allows the length of the
elbow guide 40 to vary depending upon the needs of the athlete.
[0058] Alternatively, the length of the elbow guide 40 may be
independently adjusted by providing an elbow beam 44 manufactured
from at least two segments, with the at least two elbow beam
segments varying in diameter. For example, if two elbow beam
segments are used, the first elbow beam segment, which is
integrally connected to the elbow attachment 42, should have a
greater or lesser diameter than the second elbow beam segment,
which may be fitted within the first elbow beam segment. The elbow
beam 44 will be capable of extending or compacting to a desired
length. For example, if the throwing technique trainer device 10 is
being used by an athlete, the at least two elbow beam segments may
be extended to a desired length. After use of the device 10, the
athlete may reduce the at least two elbow beam segments and easily
transport the throwing technique trainer device 10.
[0059] The shape of the elbow beam 44 may vary. FIGS. 3-5 show the
elbow beam 44 as being convexly shaped, while FIG. 2 shows the
elbow beam 44 as being concavely shaped. The elbow beam 44 may be
straight as shown in FIG. 1, or curved.
[0060] Connected to the elbow beam 44, at an end opposite the elbow
attachment 42, is an elbow rest 46. The elbow rest 46 provides a
location on the throwing technique trainer device 10 where the
athlete may place his or her elbow. The elbow rest 46 is a
positioning device for the athlete's elbow.
[0061] Preferably, the elbow rest 46 is concavely shaped. The
concave shape provides the athlete with a specific location (the
"elbow contact area") on the elbow guide 40 where his or her elbow
should be placed. However, the elbow rest 46 may be padded, and the
elbow contact area may be flat, curved, or convexly shaped.
[0062] In addition to the elbow guide 40, and as shown in FIGS.
1-5, a ball guide 50 is attached to the pole 30. Preferably, the
ball guide 50 is comprised of three parts: the ball attachment 52,
the ball beam 54, and the ball rest 56.
[0063] The ball attachment 52 attaches the ball guide 50 with the
pole 30. The ball attachment 52 may be any structure, apparatus, or
device that is capable of permanently, adjustably, or removably
attaching the ball guide 50 to the pole 30. For example, FIGS. 2-5
shows the ball attachment 52 as being a clasp and screw mechanism.
However, the ball attachment 52 may also be a spring clamp as shown
in FIG. 1, hook and loop attachment, nail attachment, or an
attachment wherein the ball attachment 52 is permanently affixed or
welded to the pole 30.
[0064] If the ball attachment 52 is adjustably attached to the pole
30, the ball guide 50 may be raised or lowered to a desired height
on the pole 30. The adjustable ball attachment 52 allows athletes
of varying heights to adjust the ball guide 50 of the throwing
technique trainer device 10 to a height along the pole 30 that is
equivalent to a height, in relation to the athlete's elbow being
located on the elbow guide 40, where the athlete is capable of
gripping the ball 60 with his or her hand. For example, if a 6'0"
athlete has finished using the throwing technique trainer device
10, and a 4'11" athlete decides to use the same device, the 4'11"
athlete may adjust the ball guide 50 to a lower height on the pole
30 so that the 4'11" athlete is able to grip the ball 60 located on
the ball guide 50.
[0065] The ball beam 54 is integrally connected to the ball
attachment 52. The ball beam 54 allows an athlete to position his
or her body far enough from the base structure 20 so as to allow
the athlete to move his or her feet without interference.
[0066] The ball beam 54 connects the ball attachment 52 and the
ball rest 56. Additionally, and as shown in FIGS. 1-5, the ball
beam 54 defines the length of the ball guide 50.
[0067] The elbow guide 40 may be independently adjusted using the
elbow beam 44. The length of the elbow guide 40 may be
independently adjusted by providing at least two holes 48 in the
elbow beam 44. The at least two holes 48 allow the elbow attachment
42 to integrally connect with the elbow beam 44 at varying
positions along the elbow beam 44. This allows the length of the
elbow guide 40 to vary depending upon the needs of the athlete.
[0068] Alternatively, the length of the ball guide 50 may be
independently adjusted by providing a ball beam 54 manufactured
from at least two segments, with the at least two ball beam
segments varying in diameter. For example, if two ball beam
segments are used, the first ball beam segment, which is integrally
connected to the ball attachment 52, should have a greater or
lesser diameter than the second ball beam segment, which may be
fitted within the first ball beam segment. The ball beam 54 will be
capable of extending or compacting to a desired length. For
example, if the throwing technique trainer device 10 is being used
by an athlete, the at least two ball beam segments may be extended
to a desired length. After use of the device 10, the athlete may
reduce the at least two ball beam segments and easily transport the
throwing technique trainer device 10.
[0069] The shape of the ball beam 54 may vary. FIGS. 3-5 show the
ball beam 54 as being convexly shaped. FIG. 2 shows the ball beam
54 as being concavely shaped. The ball beam 54 may be straight as
shown in FIG. 1, or curved.
[0070] Connected to the ball beam 54, at an end opposite of the
ball attachment 52, is a ball rest 56. The ball rest 56 provides a
location on the throwing technique trainer device 10 where a ball
60 may rest as the athlete prepares to throw the ball 60.
[0071] There are various embodiments of the ball rest 56 of the
throwing technique trainer device 10. In a first embodiment, the
ball rest 56 is manufactured in the shape of the ball 60 that the
athlete is throwing. By having a ball rest 56 capable of holding a
specifically shaped ball 60, the ball 60 will be held in a static
position during the time the athlete is positioning his or her
body.
[0072] In an optional feature of the first embodiment of the ball
rest 56, the throwing technique trainer device 10 is provided with
at least two ball guides 50 having ball rests 56 that are
manufactured in the shape of a number of different types of balls
60. With this optional feature, the athlete would be able to attach
a ball guide 50, having a ball rest 56 that is shaped as the type
of ball 60 being used by the athlete with the throwing technique
trainer device 10, to the pole. For example, if an athlete were
learning proper throwing techniques with a baseball 60, the athlete
would attach a ball guide 50 to the pole 30 that had a ball rest 56
shaped to hold a baseball 60. If the athlete wanted to learn proper
throwing technique with a softball 60 or football 60, the athlete
would remove the ball guide 50 having a ball rest 56 shaped to hold
a baseball 60, and attach a ball guide 50 having a ball rest 56
shaped to hold a softball 60 football 60 to the pole 30.
[0073] In a second embodiment, the ball guide 50 is a clasp
structure that is capable of expanding and constricting. The clasp
structure allows the athlete to place any type of ball 60 within
the clasp. For example, if an athlete is learning proper throwing
technique using a baseball 60, the athlete may constrict the clasp
structure to accommodate the diameter or width of the baseball 60.
Alternately, if the athlete is learning proper throwing technique
using a football 60, the athlete may expand the clasp structure to
accommodate the diameter, width, or length of the football 60.
[0074] IV. Ball
[0075] Optionally, the throwing technique trainer device 10 may
provide a ball 60 or a plurality of balls 60 for use with the
device 10. For purposes of this invention, a ball 60 is defined as
any movable object used in athletic activities or games.
[0076] In a first embodiment, the ball 60 is an object that is
traditionally used by the athlete in a specific sport. For example,
if the athlete plays the sport of football, a football will be
used. If the athlete participates in the sport of dart throwing, a
dart will be used.
[0077] In a second embodiment, the ball 60 contains a visual
indicator. FIG. 4 shows the visual indicator as a line or stripe
with finger positioning dots or other symbols on the ball 60. The
line or stripe may be seams that are customarily stitched on a
ball. A visual indicator on the ball 60 allows the athlete to
determine whether the ball 60 was properly thrown by viewing the
rotation of the visual indicator in relation to the path the ball
60 was thrown. Alternatively or additionally, the visual indicator
may be in the form of finger placement positions that aid an
athlete in properly placing their fingers on the ball 60. The
finger placement positions located on the ball 60 may be altered
for left or right handed athletes and may include specific finger
positions corresponding to proper finger placement positions for
specific types of throws.
[0078] In a third embodiment, the ball 60 contains an audible
indicator. The audible indicator provides sounds that allow an
athlete to determine whether the ball 60 was properly or improperly
thrown. In accordance with a user's preference, the audible
indicator may be manufactured such that sounds are provided only
when the ball is either thrown properly, improperly, or both.
[0079] V. Use
[0080] In use, the elbow guide 40 and ball guide 50 should be
attached to the pole 30 in a desired position. For example, if the
athlete is throwing the ball 60 in an overhand manner, the elbow
guide 40 is placed above the athlete's shoulder, and the ball guide
50 is located above the elbow guide 40. This position is shown in
FIG. 3. Alternatively, if the athlete is throwing a ball 60 in an
underhand manner, the elbow guide 40 will be located below the ball
guide 50. This position is shown in FIG. 5.
[0081] After the elbow guide 40 and ball guide 50 are attached to
the pole, they are adjusted in relation to the athlete. To
determine where the elbow guide 40 and ball guide 50 are to be
positioned on the pole 30 in relation to the athlete, the athlete
should hold his or her elbow at slightly above his or her shoulder
as shown in FIG. 3. The athlete may then adjust the elbow guide 40
so that the elbow guide 40 comfortably supports the athlete's
elbow. After adjusting the elbow guide 40, the athlete raises his
or her hand. The ball guide 50 may then be adjusted so that it is
at the height of the athlete's extended fingers as they are curved
to grip the ball 60, as shown in FIG. 3.
[0082] After positioning and adjusting the elbow guide 40 and ball
guide 50, the athlete positions his or her lower body. The lower
body positioning is done with the throwing technique trainer device
10 located behind the throwing arm of the athlete. Using baseball
as an example, the athlete will position his back foot
perpendicular to the target that he is throwing towards, while the
athlete's front foot is placed parallel or pointed at the target.
Whether the back foot is the left or right foot will depend on the
dominant throwing hand used by the athlete. The athlete turns his
or her upper body and places his or her elbow on the elbow guide 40
and the ball 60 on the ball guide 50.
[0083] From this position, the athlete is provided with a proper
throwing position for throwing a ball. To throw the ball, the
athlete rotates his or her upper body toward the target and
commences his or her throw. If the athlete is throwing a baseball
60, the palm of the athlete's hand faces completely away from the
target. In the throwing phase, the elbow will automatically lead
the athlete's arm, with the elbow being at least as high as the
athlete's shoulder when it moves by the athlete's head. The
athlete's hand will rotate approximately 180.degree., following the
elbow forward, and, as the hand gets closer to the release point,
it will move further away from the head towards full extension. By
the time the arm is fully extended, the ball will have been
released and the hand will be out in front of the athlete's body.
The hand, arm, and shoulder pronate to drive the ball to its
target. At the same time, the arm opposite the athlete's throwing
arm is brought back into the athlete's body for balance and for
conservation of momentum, with the weight on the athlete's back
foot transferring to the athlete's front foot.
[0084] V. Miscellaneous
[0085] The description and drawings generally describe the throwing
technique trainer device 10 in terms of a right-handed athlete.
However, it should be understood that the present invention
encompasses a throwing technique trainer device 10 that can be
adjusted for either left or right-handed athletes.
[0086] Moreover, while the description and drawings generally
describe a throwing technique trainer device 10 used by a male, it
is to be understood that the present invention describes a throwing
technique trainer device 10 that can be used by either male,
female, child, or adult. The terms "he," "his," and "male" as used
in the description of the invention are for descriptive purposes
only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
[0087] Further, although the description and drawings generally
refer to throwing techniques in a baseball context, it should be
understood that the present invention describes a throwing
technique trainer device 10 that can be used in any sport where
throwing or a throwing motion is used. Some exemplary sports for
which this device 10 may be utilized are baseball, softball,
football, basketball, volleyball, rugby, soccer, darts, or water
polo.
[0088] The terms and expressions that have been employed in the
foregoing specification are used as terms of description and not of
limitation, and are not intended to exclude equivalents of the
features shown and described or portions of them. The scope of the
invention is defined and limited only by the claims that
follow.
* * * * *