U.S. patent application number 12/001143 was filed with the patent office on 2009-06-11 for basketball and soccer training device and associated method.
Invention is credited to Victor Johnson.
Application Number | 20090149281 12/001143 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40722233 |
Filed Date | 2009-06-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090149281 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Johnson; Victor |
June 11, 2009 |
Basketball and soccer training device and associated method
Abstract
A basketball or soccer training device has a base, a body having
a lower body portion and an upper body portion with the lower body
portion overlying the base. The upper body portion has a first pair
of arms projecting generally outwardly in generally-opposite
directions and a second pair of arms projecting generally upwardly
in relative spaced relationship. The lower body portion may have a
pair of legs terminating in weighted feet. The base may be hollow
and be dimensioned and structured to receive an inflatable,
basketball training device when in deflated condition. A
corresponding method is provided.
Inventors: |
Johnson; Victor;
(Pittsburgh, PA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ECKERT SEAMANS CHERIN & MELLOTT
600 GRANT STREET, 44TH FLOOR
PITTSBURGH
PA
15219
US
|
Family ID: |
40722233 |
Appl. No.: |
12/001143 |
Filed: |
December 10, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
473/447 ;
473/446 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 69/34 20130101;
A63B 69/0071 20130101; A63B 2225/62 20130101; A63B 69/002
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/447 ;
473/446 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/00 20060101
A63B069/00 |
Claims
1. A training device comprising: a base, a body having a lower body
portion and an upper body portion, an upper body portion having a
first pair of arms projecting generally outwardly in
generally-opposite directions, a second pair of arms extending
generally upwardly in relative spaced relationship with respect to
each other, a first pair of spaces defined between said first pair
of arms and said lower body portion, a second pair of spaces
defined between said first pair of arms and said second pair of
arms, and a third space defined between said second pair of
arms.
2. The training device of claim 1 including: said lower body
portion having a pair of legs.
3. The training device of claim 2 including: said lower body
portion secured to said base.
4. The training device of claim 1 including: said first, second,
and third spaces being of such size as to permit a basketball to
pass therethrough.
5. The training device of claim 1 including: said upper body
portion and said lower body portion being inflated.
6. The training device of claim 1 including: said base being hollow
and being structured to receive said body in uninflated
condition.
7. The training device of claim 2 including: said lower body
portion having a pair of feet, and said feet being weighted to
resist undesired movement of said body.
8. The training device of claim 7 including: said base being
tapered generally upwardly.
9. The training device of claim 7 including: said base and said
weighted feet structured to resist undesired upsetting of said
device when contacted by a basketball.
10. The training device of claim 6 including: said base having a
movable wall to facilitate opening said base to permit access to
the interior thereof.
11. The training device of claim 1 including: said body
approximating in the size of a human being.
12. The training device of claim 1 including: said upper body
portion having an upwardly-projecting head disposed generally in
the space between said second arms.
13. The training device of claim 1 including: said third space
having a dimension of at least about 18 to 22 inches.
14. The training device of claim 1 including: said first pair of
spaces each having a dimension of at least about 18 to 22
inches.
15. The training device of claim 1, including: said second pair of
spaces each having a dimension of at least about 18 to 22
inches.
16. The training device of claim 12 including: said head having the
general shape of a basketball.
17. The training device of claim 11 including: said body being a
crouched, defensive basketball player.
18. The training device of claim 1 including: said body composed of
a material selected from the group consisting of rubber and
plastic.
19. The training device of claim 1 including: said body being
secured to said base.
20. The training device of claim 1 including: said base having a
lower wall with an opening therein to permit entry of the upper
portion of a second base for stacking during storage.
21. The training device of claim 1 including: said base having a
partition wall for cooperating with exterior walls of said base to
define a recess for receipt of a portion of said body during
storage.
22. The training device of claim 1 including: a bladder having a
suitable valve secured to a portion of said body and to said base
to facilitate inflation of said body and deflation of said
body.
23. A method of practicing basketball skills comprising: providing
a base, a body having a lower body portion and an upper body
portion, an upper body portion having a first pair of arms
projecting generally outwardly in generally-opposite directions, a
second pair of arms extending generally upwardly in relative spaced
relationship with respect to each other and spaced from each other,
a first pair of spaces defined between said first pair of arms and
said lower body portion, a second pair of spaced defined between
said first pair of arms and said second pair of arms, a third space
defined between said second pair of arms, periodically shooting a
basketball over said body or through said third space, periodically
passing a basketball through said first pair of spaces or said
second pair of spaces, and periodically dribbling a basketball
around said body.
24. The basketball-practicing method of claim 23 including: said
third space having a dimension of at least about 18 to 22
inches.
25. The basketball-practicing method of claim 23 including: said
first pair of spaces each having a dimension of at least about 18
to 22 inches.
26. The basketball-practicing method of claim 23 including: said
second pair of spaces each having a dimension of at least about 18
to 22 inches.
27. The basketball-practicing method of claim 23 including: said
body is inflated.
28. The basketball-practicing method of claim 23 including: said
body being a crouched, defensive basketball player.
29. The basketball-practicing method of claim 23 including: said
body being secured to said base.
30. A method of practicing soccer skills comprising: providing a
base, a body having a lower body portion and an upper body portion,
an upper body portion having a first pair of arms projecting
generally outwardly in generally-opposite directions, a second pair
of arms extending generally upwardly in relative spaced
relationship with respect to each other and spaced from each other,
a first pair of spaces defined between said first pair of arms and
said lower body portion, a second pair of spaced defined between
said first pair of arms and said second pair of arms, a third space
defined between said second pair of arms, periodically kicking a
soccer ball over said body or through said third space, and
periodically kicking a soccer ball through said first pair of
spaces or said second pair of spaces.
31. The soccer-practicing method of claim 30 including:
periodically passing a soccer ball through at least one space from
said first pair of spaces, at least one space of said second pair
of spaces, and said third space.
Description
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to the field of athletic
training aids, and more particularly, it relates to a comprehensive
practice aid for use in the training of offensive and defensive
skills of basketball and soccer players and a related method.
[0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0004] Since its inception in about 1891, the sport of basketball
has primarily consisted of two basic and fundamental components:
offense, i.e., having the basketball and attempting to score, and
defense, i.e., not having the basketball and attempting the
prevention of scoring. The concept of offense incorporates the
possession of the basketball. Having the basketball in one's
possession, a player has essentially three options with respect to
the basketball. He or she can either attempt to shoot the ball at
the basket, attempt to pass the ball to another player, or attempt
to dribble or drive the basketball with the intention of performing
one of the two prior options. Having the basketball in one's
possession, prior to initiating any of these three options, is
commonly known in the art of basketball as the triple threat. The
concept of defense in basketball consists of preventing a player
with the basketball in his or her possession from scoring, passing
to another player, or dribbling with the intention of scoring or
passing.
[0005] The offensive and defensive skill levels needed to
successfully play the game of basketball require dedication, hard
work, and many hours of practice with a basketball on a basketball
court, or other suitable location, providing adequate surface and
space. In particular, the development of a basketball player's
shooting, passing, and dribbling skills requires a player to be
able to practice the ability to shoot, pass, or dribble drive a
basketball under the pressure of a defensive distraction. Often,
the availability of another player to provide a defensive
distraction to practice one's offensive skills is not an option, as
many players must practice alone. Furthermore, most basketball
practicing environments involving multiple or individual players,
in an effort to improve the fundamentals of offensive basketball
skills, have primarily utilized the basic traffic safety cone as a
defensive distraction.
[0006] An example of such a defensive distraction is disclosed in
U.S. Pat. No. 2,333,273. Although not originally designed for use
as a basketball training aid, such a cone, due to its shape and
small size, has become the most popular and most utilized aid on a
basketball court. However, beyond distracting an offensive
basketball player's straight forward motion, the cone does very
little to enhance an offensive basketball player's triple threat,
i.e., shooting, passing, and dribble driving skills.
[0007] There has been a plethora of defensive devices, mechanisms,
and contraptions designed to enhance the offensive skills of a
basketball player--none of which have been visible in the general
basketball community or are comprehensive in their approach to
enhancing all three aspects of the offensive triple threat. None of
these have successfully supplanted the popularity of the basic
traffic cone despite its obvious shortcomings.
[0008] Many basketball training aids, which have been designed to
provide an interactive distraction for an individual practicing
basketball, have involved complex and expensive articulating
systems, which limit their practicality, present a potential safety
hazard to players, or pose a potential danger to the surfaces of a
basketball court. Also, many involve complex,
electronically-energized, mechanical systems. Players coming into
contact with certain equipment can be injured.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 3,552,749 discloses a basketball practicing
device with rotatable spokes driven by an electric-mounted motor
and a gear train. In addition to being a safety hazard, the device
is not capable of providing an adequate or realistic defensive
posture as a distraction for an offensive triple threat. It also
contributes little to a players' defensive knowledge. The need for
electrical power makes the device both cumbersome and impractical
for use in certain locations.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 3,675,921 discloses a motor-driven device, as
well. It discloses a player with a pair of upwardly-projecting
arms, which may be moved up and down. This device is also not
capable of providing a simulated triple threat defensive
position.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 4,989,862 discloses a basketball device, which
features a telescoping system involving a moveable mechanism of
springs and coils to adjust torso height and rotate arms. In
addition to inadequately providing a defensive posture for the
offensive triple threat, this device also presents a potential
safety concern.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 5,160,138 discloses a basketball training
device featuring a carriage with at least one wheel and a
shot-blocking projection extending from the carriage. The user is
tethered to the moving device. This device is unsafe for young,
developing basketball players and does not offer any assistance
toward executing the triple threat offense.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 5,485,993 discloses a basketball training
device having a pair of movable arms. A paramount problem with this
design is safety. This device contains materials, such as springs,
coils, and steel, which are unsuitable for a basketball court;
especially a basketball court with young, developing basketball
players. The device presents an inadequate simulation and an
unrealistic defensive challenge.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 5,816,951 discloses a sport training device
having a fluid-motive operating system for moving limbs. A
fluid-containing actuating system presents a potential hazard for
anyone playing basketball on a court. Although the patent indicates
that the device may be configured to utilize a gas, such as air,
the system employs a complex plumbing and activation system, which
renders it cumbersome and impractical. The device also fails to
provide a comprehensive defensive distraction for the offensive
triple threat.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 5,527,185 discloses an athletic training
device comprising a base, an upright supported by the base, and a
planar training shape simulating a human athlete mounted on the
upright. The height of the figure can be adjusted, and the arms can
be articulated. This device presents obvious safety concerns for a
young, developing basketball player on a basketball court because
of the use of metal sheets and brackets. This device fails to
provide a comprehensive challenge for the offensive triple threat,
especially for the dribble drive penetration option. It does not
simulate a realistic defensive posture for an offensive triple
threat. It narrowly focuses on the blocking of an offensive
shot.
[0016] U.S. Pat. No. 5,890,985 discloses a basketball training aid
to improve a basketball player's shooting accuracy. It has a pair
of hands secured to flexible supports. It is not a realistic game
condition distraction. The device is severely limited in its
ability to challenge the triple threat of an offensive basketball
player. Such a device requires the aid of a second participant,
which renders it useless to the individual attempting to practice
alone. See also United States Patent Publication No.
2006/0199676.
[0017] United States Patent Publication No. 2006/0003856 discloses
a basketball training device, wherein a wrist support is secured to
a longitudinal, rod-like member, which may be reciprocated, so as
to adjust the manner in which a player shoots the basketball.
[0018] United States Patent Publication No. 2003/0211906 discloses
a device, which has a representation of a head and two upreaching
arms, attached to a post and secured to a human being, so as to
provide an adjustable means of defending against a second player
who is shooting the basketball.
[0019] United States Design Pat. No. Des. 321,370 discloses a
simulated basketball player. The design does not simulate the
correct defensive posture to defend the triple threat of an
offensive player, as it fails to provide an adequate challenge for
the dribble drive option of the triple threat.
[0020] United States Design Pat. No. Des. 351,632 discloses a
practice dummy for sports. This design has no apparent
stabilization, is in an upright position, and does not represent
the required position to adequately distract the triple threat of
an offensive player.
[0021] United States Design Pat. No. Des. 516,629 discloses a
sports mannequin. This design is in an upright position and does
not represent the required position to adequately distract or
simulate a defense against the triple threat of offensive
player.
[0022] United States Design Pat. No. Des. 539,373 discloses a
basketball training device having rotatable arms. This design also
fails to address the comprehensive defensive position required to
adequately challenge the three options of a triple threat offensive
player.
[0023] A basketball training device called the "Ben Wallace
Inflatable Defender" has been marketed. It fails to provide a
comprehensive defense for the triple threat offensive player. It
stands in an upright position and is designed primarily as a
distraction for shooting. At the height of seven feet, the device
is impractical for the small, young, developmental basketball
player.
[0024] In spite of the foregoing prior art, there remains
fundamental disadvantages of these approaches in their failure to
simultaneously account for all three offensive options utilized by
a triple threat offensive basketball player. The devices go to
great lengths to simulate an opponent blocking a basketball shot or
blocking a basketball pass. However, very little attention has been
given to the third of the triple threat option, namely, the need
for an offensive player to dribble drive the basketball around an
accurately-positioned defensive basketball player.
[0025] The defensive positioning of a defensive basketball player
takes on a substantially unique posture when attempting to distract
or stop the dribbling penetration of an offensive basketball
player. Those skilled in the art would acknowledge that the optimum
defensive posture needed to successfully distract or stop an
offensive basketball player from completing a dribble drive
penetration around a defender is to execute a simulated, seated
posture with the feet spread at least shoulder width apart. Such
posture, in conjunction with outstretched arms, forces the
offensive basketball player to utilize a wider approach to the
basket. Mastering the trajectory necessary to successfully initiate
the dribble drive penetration requires an accurate and realistic
defensive distraction.
[0026] There remains, therefore, a need for a comprehensive and
multi-dimensional, yet simple, practical, and safe, basketball
training aid that will enable a basketball player to improve his or
her shooting, passing, and dribble driving skills under the most
realistic basketball game conditions.
[0027] There is also a need for a basketball training aid, which
enhances the defensive skills of developmental basketball players
by providing a visually-accurate and real defensive posture, while
simultaneously providing a defensive distraction enabling an
offensive player to practice and improve his or her ability to
execute the triple threat option of shooting the basketball,
passing the basketball, or dribble driving the basketball with the
intention of either shooting or passing. The training aid should be
capable of simulating a defensive basketball opponent in a real and
accurate defensive posture, such that the offensive basketball
handler can practice shooting, passing, and dribble penetration
under realistic conditions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0028] The present invention provides a basketball or soccer
training device, which includes a base, a body having a lower body
portion and an upper body portion with the lower body portion
overlying the base. The upper body portion has a first pair of arms
projecting generally outwardly in generally-opposite directions and
a second pair of arms projecting generally upwardly and spaced with
respect to each other and with respect to the first pair of arms. A
first pair of spaces is defined between the first pair of arms and
the base. A second pair of spaces is defined between the first pair
of arms and the second pair of arms. A third space is defined
between the second pair of arms. The lower body portion preferably
has a pair of legs, which may be weighted in a lower portion, as in
the feet, for example. The lower body portion may be secured to the
base.
[0029] The openings in the fives spaces are preferably of such size
so as to permit a basketball or soccer ball to pass
therethrough.
[0030] In one embodiment of the invention, the body is
inflated.
[0031] The base is preferably tapered upwardly and is hollow so as
to be structured to receive the deflated body. The base has a
movable wall to permit access to the interior thereof. The body may
have an upwardly-projecting head disposed in the space between the
second pair of arms.
[0032] A method of basketball or soccer training corresponding to
the structure is also provided.
[0033] It is an object of the present invention to provide a
simulated, defensive basketball opponent, which reflects accurate
defensive posture and positioning, known to those skilled in the
art, which can provide an offensive basketball handler a realistic
distraction for improving shooting, passing, and dribble
penetration skills and a related method.
[0034] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
comprehensive and multidimensional basketball or soccer training
aid and related method simulating a defensive basketball or soccer
player capable of enabling an offensive basketball player to
realistically practice and improve the triple threat options of
shooting the basketball, passing the basketball, and dribble
driving penetration with the intention of either shooting or
passing the basketball.
[0035] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
comprehensive and multidimensional basketball training aid
simulating a defensive basketball player that is simple and safe
for young and developing basketball players, and operates without
complex and expensive articulating systems.
[0036] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
comprehensive and multidimensional basketball training aid that
accurately simulates the correct posture required by a defensive
basketball player to adequately distract or stop an offensive
basketball players' use of the triple threat, i.e., shooting the
basketball, passing the basketball or dribble driving the
basketball with the intention of shooting or passing.
[0037] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
comprehensive and multidimensional basketball training aid that
accurately simulates the correct posture required by a defensive
basketball player such that young, developing basketball players
have an accurate visualization of the correct defensive posture to
utilize when confronted with a triple threat offensive basketball
player.
[0038] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
comprehensive basketball training aid capable of simulating a
defensive opponent which will enable an offensive basketball player
to practice an approach to the triple threat offensive options of
passing, shooting, or dribble driving around a well-positioned
defender effectively.
[0039] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
inexpensive, simple, safe, and practical aid for basketball
training, which provides a comprehensive and multidimensional
distraction, without requiring complex, electrically-energized,
mechanical systems, to assist young, developmental basketball
players to acclimate to such distractions, and therefore, improve
their real game skills.
[0040] It is another object in one embodiment of the present
invention to provide an inflatable, basketball or soccer training
aid, which includes a life-sized, simulated human figure including
a head, four arms, and two legs in a defensive position.
[0041] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
comprehensive and multidimensional basketball training aid that is
durable, requires no assembly, and is operational indoors or
outdoors.
[0042] It is another object of the present invention to provide
such an aid and method, which can be employed beneficially by an
individual practicing basketball or soccer alone or a group of
individuals practicing together.
[0043] These and other objects of the present invention will be
more fully understood in the following detailed description of the
invention on reference to the illustrations appended hereto.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0044] FIG. 1 is a front, elevational view showing an embodiment of
the basketball training device of the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 2 is a rear, elevational view of the basketball
training device of FIG. 1 shown with the base open.
[0046] FIG. 3 is a right-side, elevational view of the basketball
training device of FIG. 1.
[0047] FIG. 4 is a left-side, elevational view of the basketball
training device of FIG 1.
[0048] FIG. 5 is a top, plan view of the basketball training device
of FIG. 1.
[0049] FIG. 6 is a bottom, plan view of the basketball training
device of FIG. 1. FIG. 6a shows bottom view of a detail of a
bladder with an appropriate valve secured to a portion of a
base.
[0050] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a base of one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0051] FIG. 8 is a top, plan view of the base of FIG. 7 shown with
a bladder in place.
[0052] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the base of FIG. 7 in a
partially-open position.
[0053] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the base of FIG. 7 in the
open position.
[0054] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the base of FIG. 7 in an
open position with an inflatable embodiment of the present
invention extending out of the base.
[0055] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an illustration of a
removable panel of the base of FIG. 7.
[0056] FIG. 13 is a reverse-angle, expanded view of the base with
the body in the stored position and the removable wall of FIG.
12.
[0057] FIG. 14 is a partially broken-away, top plan view of another
embodiment of the present invention, wherein a partition wall
creates a compartment structured to receive a portion of the stored
figure.
[0058] FIG. 15 is a partially-schematic view of a base of the form
of FIG. 14 showing two such bases vertically nested for
storage.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0059] FIG. 1 illustrates a particular embodiment of the present
invention as an inflatable basketball or soccer training aid having
a simulated human figure attached to a generally frusto-conical
shaped, storage housing or base 2. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 7, the
generally frusto-conical shaped, storage base 2 has a hollow
interior and consists of a bottom wall 4, side panels 8, 10, 12,
and one removable closure quarter panel 14. The generally
frusto-conical shaped base 2 tapers upwardly-toward opening 20
(FIG. 6), which culminates at a flushing ridge. The frusto-conical
shaped base 2 is hollow. A bladder 22 preferably overlies and is
preferably secured to the base 2 adjacent opening 20 (FIGS. 7 and
8) and is in communication with and secured to the body in a manner
to be described herein. The frusto-conical shaped base 2 can be
formed from a relatively strong and durable, yet lightweight,
material, such as plastic, which among other options, can be
blow-molded or compression-molded. If desired, one or more
outwardly-projecting handles may be formed on or secured to side
panels 8, 10, 12, 14, such as handles 9, 11 (FIGS. 1 and 8, for
example), to facilitate handling the basketball training
device.
[0060] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 5, further details of an
embodiment of the invention will be considered. In this embodiment,
the training device has a body 30, which includes an upper body
portion 32 and a lower body portion 34. The upper body portion 32
has a pair of first arms 40, 42 extending generally outwardly in
opposite directions and terminating, respectively, in hands 44, 46.
The upper body portion 32 also has a second pair of arms 48, 50,
which extend generally upwardly and terminate, respectively, in
hands 52, 54. The training device body 30 also has a head 56, which
in the form illustrated, is in the shape of a basketball.
[0061] The lower body portion 34 has a pair of legs 60, 62, which
terminate, respectively, in feet 64, 66. The lower body portion 34
overlies to the upper part of base 2. it is secured to and in
connection with bladder 22.
[0062] As indicated hereinbefore, it is an objective to provide a
basketball training device, which, as a result of its
configuration, permits an individual to practice the three needed
skills, i.e., shooting, passing, and driving while dribbling. The
present invention provides a configuration, which facilitates
effective practicing in this manner.
[0063] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a first pair of spaces 70, 72 is
defined between the first pair of arms 40, 42 and legs 60, 62,
respectively. A second pair of spaces 74,76 is defined between the
first pair of arms 40, 42 and the second pair of arms 48, 50,
respectively. A third space 80 is defined between the second pair
of arms 48, 50. It will be appreciated that, in this manner, the
semi-squatting configuration of the basketball training device body
2 provides obstructions to all three of the basketball options for
the player in possession of the ball.
[0064] Referring to FIG. 1, in a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, the first pair of spaces 70, 72 will each have a
dimension D of at least about 18 to 22 inches measuring thigh to
bicep, the second spaces 74, 76 will each have a dimension D2 of at
least about 18 to 22 inches measured from inner elbow to outer
elbow, and the third space 80 will have a minimum dimension D3
above the head of at least about 18 to 22 inches.
[0065] In order to enhance stability of the training device, it is
preferred that feet 64, 66 be weighted in order to enhance
stability of the basketball training device. This may readily be
accomplished by providing metal weights or sand, for example,
within the feet. Further stability is provided by having the body
secured to the upper portion of the base 2.
[0066] It will be appreciated that, as shown in FIGS. 1 through 5,
the defensive player presented by the basketball training device of
the present invention has the body and limbs proportioned and
shaped generally as that of a human being with the exception, of
course, of the additional pair of arms and the head, which may be
provided in the form of a representation of a human being's head,
as contrasted with the illustrated basketball.
[0067] Referring to FIG. 6, there is shown a bottom plan view of a
basketball training device of the present invention. The
generally-flat bladder 22 is in communication with the interior of
the body 30. A suitable valve 70 provides a means for introducing
air into the body 30 to inflate it and also serves as a means for
deflating the body 30 for storage within base 2. The bladder 22 is
preferably secured to base 2 as by thermal welding or adhesive, for
example, adjacent opening to the upper edge 90 (FIG. 7).
[0068] Referring to FIG. 6A, it will be seen that the bladder 22
has an appropriate valve 70 for permitting the introduction of air
into the body 30 and withdrawal therefrom. The bladder is shown
being circular to the inner surface 61 of wall 10 by attaching
portion 63 thereto. Securement may be effected by any suitable
means, such as formal welding or adhesive, for example.
[0069] It will be appreciated that in the shooting mode, the
practicing basketball or soccer player will be shooting over hands
52, 54 and may pass through the space 80 depending upon the height
of the player and the position of the player on the court. Spaces
70, 72, 74, 76 are regions through which passes may be made either
in the air or bounce passes to another player. Finally, the
dribbling resistance is provided by the entire structure with the
extension of arms 40, 42 enhancing the obstacle, which must be
circumvented by the dribbling basketball player.
[0070] Referring to FIGS. 7 through 10, a preferred embodiment of
the base 2 will be described. The base 2 has a bottom wall 4 and
four surrounding walls 8, 10, 12, 14, which cooperate to define a
frusto-conical shape terminating in opening 20. Referring now, more
specifically, to FIGS. 7, 9, and 10, it will be appreciated that
wall 14 is removably secured to adjacent walls 12, 8 and that the
uppermost portion of the base 2 has an opening 20. The wall 14 has
an upper flange 92, which is received within notch 94 of wall 12
and a corresponding notch 95 at the top of wall 8. The wall 14 may
be secured to walls 8, 12 by a friction fit with engagement between
flange 92 and notches 94, 95, serving to provide for intimate
securement. If desired, however, other means may be employed, such
as a tie or elastomeric band going around the walls 8, 10, 12 and
removable wall 14 with such retention being enhanced by the use of
a groove (not shown) in wall 14 and corresponding ribs in portions
of the other walls. In the alternative, as shown in FIGS. 10
through 13, grooves may be provided in the interior of walls 8, 12,
and ribs projecting from the lateral edges 96, 97 of wall 14 may be
designed to slide therewithin. It is preferred that the bottom wall
4 of the base 2 has an area, which is about 200 to 400 percent of
the area of opening 20 at the upper portion of the frusto-conical
shaped base 2.
[0071] It will be appreciated that the base 2 provides not only a
convenient way of storing the body 30, but also when the body 30 is
in the usable form, as shown in FIGS. 1 through 6, it serves to
stabilize the assembly and resist undesired tipping over.
[0072] Referring now in greater detail to FIGS. 11 through 13, it
will be seen that the wall 14, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, has
been removed, thereby permitting access to the hollow interior of
the base 2. The hollow interior provides a space 98 within which
the body 30 is stored. In the view shown in FIG. 11, the body 30
has been removed from the hollow space 98 with access to the
inflation valve 70 being provided, so as to facilitate inflation of
this embodiment of the present invention. Once the body has been
inflated, the wall 14 may be restored to its position as part of
the base 2. It will be appreciated that the preferred construction
of the basketball training device of the present invention does
not, apart from having a pump to inflate the body, require motors,
drives, or a source of electrical energy input. Also, as the
device, once established, does not have moving parts, apart from
that reflected in the inherent resiliency of the material or
assembly, there is very little to wear out or break down. In
addition, as a result of the absence of such needs, the device is
much lighter. Further, the materials can be very durable and
relatively inexpensive.
[0073] FIG. 13 is a rear view of the frusto-conical shaped base 2
illustrating the removal of the slidable closure panel 14
displaying the uninflated, simulated human figure as it is stored
within the interior hollow 98 and securing fasteners 110, 112.
Referring to FIG. 13, in a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the inner portion of base 2 may be provided with
structured elements that facilitate efficient storage. The deflated
body 30 may be folded and suspended from bladder 22. Stops 110,
112, which may have Velcro-type fasteners, may be employed to
support the arms 40, 42. Upwardly-open storage boxes 120, 122 are
secured respectively to walls 8, 12 and secured respectively to
feet 64, 66, head 56, and arms 48, 50 are suspended downwardly.
[0074] The basketball training aid includes an air valve 70 on
bladder 22 joined to the backside of the simulated human FIG. 30
and the top inside of the front quarter panel 10. The bladder 22 is
made of a rubber material, which is permanently attached to the
conical housing at the top inside of the front quarter panel 10 and
the simulated human FIG. 30 so as to allow for the transfer of air
from an air pump (not shown) connected to the air receptacle 70
through the bladder 22 into the simulated human FIG. 30.
[0075] FIG. 14 shows an embodiment of the invention, wherein a
partition 140 defines a space 141 within which a portion of the
deflated figure is positioned. Compartments 121, 123 receive the
weighted feet, and an opening 142 is provided in the base bottom
wall 144.
[0076] In the form shown in FIG. 15, a lower base 150 of a first
unit is cooperating with a base 152 of another unit. The upper
portion 154 of the lower base 150 extends through opening 142,
thereby permitting vertical stacking of the units for storage. The
degree of penetration of the upper portion 154 into upper unit 152
will depend upon the slope of the outer walls of base 150 and the
size of the opening 142.
[0077] While the body of the inflatable, simulated human figure can
be constructed from a high-impact, durable, yet lightweight,
plastic material, or rubber, the feet and shoes 64 and 66 will be
made of a material, which allows for the containment of
weight-bearing substances, such as sand, to facilitate the
stabilization of the upper body. An example of such material would
be strong and durable nylon or rubber.
[0078] In operation and use, the inflatable basketball training
aid, having an attached frusto-conical shaped base 2, is removed
from the base 2. It is fully inflated with the use of an air pump
(not shown) attached to the air valve 70 and placed on a basketball
court in the vicinity of an elevated basketball hoop. With the four
arms 40, 42, 48, 50 and two legs 60, 62 fully extended and the feet
64, 66 spread shoulder width or more apart, the inflatable
basketball training aid provides a substantive defensive
distraction. The feet and shoe area, having enclosed a weighted
substance, such as sand, in conjunction with the frusto-conical
base, provide an anchoring stabilization for the inflated defensive
aid. A practicing basketball player is able to practice and execute
all three options of the triple threat. The second arms 48, 50, in
conjunction with the upper hands 52, 54, provide a defensive
distraction for the shooting or passing aspects of the triple
threat by compelling the offensive player to shoot over or pass
over or through the outstretched upper arms 48, 50. The first arms
40, 42, in conjunction with the second arms 48, 50 and their
respective hands 44, 46. 52, 54, provide a substantive defensive
distraction for the passing component of the triple threat. A
practicing basketball player is able to practice and execute five
separate and distinct passing motions. Spaces 70, 72, 74, 76, 80
provide a target for precision passing execution.
[0079] The collaboration of first arms 40, 42 and hands 44, 46,
second arms 48, 50 and hands 52, 54, and legs 60, 62, as well as
feet 64, 66, provide a substantive defensive distraction for the
dribble driving component of the triple threat. The width of the
lower arms 40, 42 compels the offensive ball handler, in his or her
attempt to dribble drive around the defender, to practice a much
wider trajectory, which will closely imitate real game
trajectories. Thus the inflatable basketball training aid having a
frusto-conical shaped storage housing allows a practicing
basketball player to obtain a higher level of shooting, passing,
and dribble driving confidence when in a real game situation.
[0080] Just as the extraction and inflation of the inflatable from
the frusto-conical shaped housing is quick and easy, upon
completing a practice session, the deflation and storage is equally
as simple and quick. Once the slidable quarter side panel 14 is
removed and the defender is deflated, one simply places the
fully-deflated defender in the designated interior hollow
compartments located within the inner walls of three sides 8, 10,
12 of the conical storage housing, not including the slidable
quarter side panel 14. The front panel 10, which is located
directly behind the inflated defender when it is extracted, houses
the upper torso 30, the upper left arm 50, the upper left hand 54,
the upper right arm 48, the upper right hand 52, and the
basketball-shaped head 56.
[0081] While the preferred embodiment involving an inflatable body
has been the focal point of the present invention, it will be
appreciated that the basketball or soccer training device need not
be inflatable. For example, it can be made of a suitable rubber,
resinous plastic, or other material with the desired resiliency and
flexibility with or without hollow portions within the body. It
also can be made of composite materials, wherein the reinforcing
elements, such as, for example, elongated resilient rods, which
could hold the body in the desired condition when in the in-use
position and yet would permit the desired flexibility so as to
allow the basketball training device to be folded for storage.
[0082] For convenience of reference and simplicity of disclosure
herein, focus has been placed upon basketball and use of the device
and method of the present invention as a basketball training
device. It will be appreciated that the device may be employed as a
soccer training device, as well. The device may be employed, for
example, as a soccer goalie or a soccer defensive player.
[0083] For simplicity of disclosure herein, reference has been made
to the use of individual figures, it will be appreciated that a
plurality of them may be used simultaneously to provide enhanced
training.
[0084] Whereas particular embodiments of the invention have been
described herein for purpose of illustration, it will be evident to
those skilled in the art that numerous variations of the details
may be made without departing from the invention as set forth in
the appended claims
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