U.S. patent application number 12/214382 was filed with the patent office on 2009-12-17 for batting grip and training systems.
This patent application is currently assigned to Jay & Piney Technologies, LLC. Invention is credited to Jay Kearns.
Application Number | 20090312125 12/214382 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41415318 |
Filed Date | 2009-12-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090312125 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kearns; Jay |
December 17, 2009 |
Batting grip and training systems
Abstract
Bat grip devices and methods are disclosed that are provided for
developing swing technique for batting in sports such as baseball
and softball. The invention in some embodiments may comprise a bat
grip device having a plurality of grip retention elements. The
plurality of grip retention elements may be integral with a handle
conforming surface and positioned longitudinally along the axis of
the handle conforming surface. The longitudinal axis of the handle
conforming surface may coincide with and be the longitudinal axis
of a handle of a bat. A fulcrum element may be configured between
the upper and lower plurality of grip retention elements. In some
embodiments the fulcrum element comprises a hand positioning
fulcrum element designed to assist in achieving the objectives of
the present invention. In still further embodiments, the fulcrum
element may comprise a bat acceleration element corresponding to
the center of gravity of the bat. The invention in some embodiments
comprises methods of batting and batting instruction as well as
swing technique, and alternatively may be incorporated into
traditional batting instruction.
Inventors: |
Kearns; Jay; (Loveland,
CO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LAW OFFICE OF CHAD C. SOLIZ , LLC
407 N. Lincoln Ave. Ste. 105
LOVELAND
CO
80537
US
|
Assignee: |
Jay & Piney Technologies,
LLC
Loveland
CO
|
Family ID: |
41415318 |
Appl. No.: |
12/214382 |
Filed: |
June 17, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
473/451 ;
473/568 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 69/0002 20130101;
A63B 60/08 20151001; A63B 2069/0008 20130101; A63B 60/12 20151001;
A63B 60/52 20151001; A63B 60/20 20151001; A63B 60/06 20151001; A63B
2209/10 20130101; A63B 60/10 20151001; A63B 2210/50 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/451 ;
473/568 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/00 20060101
A63B069/00; A63B 59/06 20060101 A63B059/06 |
Claims
1. A bat grip device, comprising: a handle conforming surface; and
a plurality of grip retention elements integral with said handle
conforming surface and longitudinally positioned along the axis of
said handle conforming surface; wherein said longitudinal axis of
said handle conforming surface comprises a longitudinal axis of a
handle of a bat.
2. A bat grip device as described in claim 1 wherein said plurality
of grip retention elements comprise finger retention elements.
3. A bat grip device as described in claim 1 wherein said plurality
of grip retention elements comprise an upper plurality of grip
retention elements and a lower plurality of grip retention
elements.
4. A bat grip device as described in claim 3 wherein said plurality
of grip retention elements comprise finger retention elements.
5. A bat grip device as described in claim 1 further comprising a
fulcrum element longitudinally positioned along the axis of said
handle conforming surface.
6. A bat grip device as described in claim 5 wherein said fulcrum
element comprises a hand positioning fulcrum element.
7. A bat grip device as described in claim 5 wherein said fulcrum
element comprises a bat acceleration element.
8. A bat grip device as described in claim 5 wherein said plurality
of grip retention elements comprise an upper plurality of grip
retention elements and a lower plurality of grip retention
elements, and wherein said fulcrum element is configured between
said upper plurality of grip retention elements and said lower
plurality of grip retention elements.
9. A bat grip device as described in claim 1 wherein said bat grip
device is retainably positioned about a handle of a bat.
10. A bat grip device as described in claim 1 wherein said bat grip
device is removably positioned about a handle of a bat.
11. A bat grip device as described in claim 1 wherein said bat grip
device is fixed about a handle of a bat.
12. A bat grip device as described in claim I wherein said
plurality of grip retention elements are oriented in a plane
perpendicular to and positioned radially about a longitudinal axis
of said bat grip device.
13. A bat grip device as described in claim 1 further comprising a
plurality of recessed retention elements positioned along a
longitudinal axis of said bat grip device.
14. A method of swinging a bat, comprising the steps of: providing
a plurality of grip retention elements about the handle of a bat;
gripping an upper plurality of said grip retention elements with a
first hand; gripping a lower plurality of said grip retention
elements with a second hand; and accelerating said bat by
application of force to the bat; whereby application of force is
directed to said bat through said grip retention elements.
15. A method of swinging a bat, comprising the steps of: providing
a fulcrum element configured between an upper and a lower plurality
of grip retention elements about a handle of a bat; gripping an
upper plurality of said grip retention elements with a first hand;
gripping a lower plurality of said grip retention elements with a
second hand; and accelerating said bat about said fulcrum element;
whereby accelerating said bat is provided by application of force
directed to said bat through said grip retention elements and
through the fulcrum element.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] Techniques for the instruction of participants in batting
for baseball and softball sports are well known and are
particularly applied in the implementation of swing practice and
the corresponding body mechanics to achieve a preferred swing.
Techniques applied in training have been developed over the years
in order to increase the proficiency of the beginning participant
in simply hitting a pitched ball. More advanced techniques are
taught to more advanced participants to further develop power in
the participant's swing, as well as achieving accuracy in directing
a hit ball.
[0002] There presently exist some preferred techniques in batting
instruction that have been developed that reflect Newton's laws of
motion and that incorporate complex body mechanics in order to
train the participant to implement a preferred swing. Many
techniques incorporate one or more positions of the body or body
motions, such positions and motions directed to the arms,
generally, the elbows, shoulders, wrists, hands, head, torso,
waist, hips, legs and feet, all in order to achieve increased
hitting proficiency, power and accuracy.
[0003] In many preferred approaches the participant is taught and
trained to bring the barrel of the bat and hands into an initial
motion that may be in the direction of the thrown ball, followed at
some stage by a movement or rotation of the bat so as to bring
preferred portions of the bat hitting surface, such as may be known
as the sweet spot or other portion of the barrel, into alignment
with the expected trajectory of the thrown ball. As may be
appreciated by those experienced in the art and science of batting,
this is an over simplification of the batting swing; however, apart
from the tremendous amount of body mechanics and motion
incorporated into the swing, the basic objective is to bring the
barrel of the bat into contact with the thrown ball.
[0004] Part of many techniques in training the participant in a
preferred swing is the positioning of the hands in order to handle
the baseball bat in a preferred manner. The initial impression to
the casual observer, and beginning participant, may be that the
techniques associated in developing proper hand grip are simply to
ensure the participant retains hold of the bat during the swing.
However, advanced techniques go well beyond the simple concern of
retaining hold of the bat and further consider how the force and
direction of the swung bat may be transferred to the ball in order
to achieve a preferred hit.
[0005] In some techniques the participant is taught to bring the
bat center of gravity about in the direction of the thrown ball by
way of providing some form of forward force by the rear hand and
arm while swinging the bat and then in either the same or a later
motion providing some form of reward force by the front hand and
arm during the swing. In order to achieve these motions, some
techniques focus upon rotating the bat about the hands. This motion
is intended to create a swing of the bat about a center of gravity.
In some traditional training, the participant may be taught to
separate their hands on the handle of the bat in order to
accentuate a feel for this motion.
[0006] In still further techniques, the motions of the rearward and
forward hands and arms are accentuated in order to establish what
some have described as `force-coupling`. In order to achieve the
hand positioning and motion, the participants are taught to drive
the rear hand straight forward, such as in a punching motion, and
to extend the rear elbow while accentuating motions of the rearward
arm, wrist, hand and fingers. At some point in this swing, the
participant is then directed in some techniques to pull back on the
end of the bat with the front hand. Other motions of the body are
required and the result is a very complex motion when taught to
beginning participants and particularly when described in the
constituent steps of the swing.
[0007] Again, this brief explanation of some techniques in batting
may be an oversimplification of those techniques and of describing
the mechanics of batting generally. This leads to the realization
that for many beginning participants, proper batting technique is a
skilled that is learned over many sessions of batting instruction
to learn proper swing technique. The difficulty in teaching proper
batting and swing technique is often accentuated by participants
being taught different styles and after being exposed to various
forms of instruction.
[0008] The recognized need for achieving the forward and rearward
motions necessary to achieve the proper swing in some techniques
have created an unmet need for properly assisting the participants
in understanding what it means to rotate the bat about its center
of gravity, to create a push-pull force in the swing, and to
achieve what some would describe as a `force coupling` of
participant with the bat during the swing. Again, past attempts
have been to simply instruct the participant to practice the swing
by separating their hands on the handle of the bat. However, this
instruction may unnecessarily direct too much attention of the
participant upon the new hand positioning and may actually detract
from other aspects of the swing. Furthermore, the separation of the
hands may in some cases create a looser grip for some participants,
creating loss of grip, an unwanted change in the swing of the bat
or other negative swing characteristic.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention disclosed herein may address one or
more of the inadequacies and unmet needs identified in traditional
batting techniques. Accordingly, the present invention is embodied
as apparatus and device and further embodied as methods, processes
and products by process, such embodiments directed to overcome the
inadequacies and provide for the unmet needs in batting
instruction.
[0010] Bat grip devices and methods are disclosed that are provided
in some embodiments for developing swing technique for batting in
sports such as baseball and softball. The invention may be provided
alone, such as an accessory or tool that is implemented as part of
batting instruction and that is a separate component to the bat. In
still further embodiments, the invention may be provided in
combination with a bat, such as a feature of the bat and integral
to the bat and bat handle in manufacture. The invention in some
embodiments comprises methods of batting and batting instruction as
well as swing technique, and alternatively may be incorporated into
traditional batting instruction. The invention in some embodiments
may be utilized in batting instruction while still further
embodiments may be incorporated into actual baseball and softball
play should league rules allow.
[0011] The invention in some embodiments may comprise a bat grip
device having a plurality of grip retention elements. The plurality
of grip retention elements may be integral with a handle conforming
surface and positioned longitudinally along the axis of the handle
conforming surface. The longitudinal axis of the handle conforming
surface may coincide with and be the longitudinal axis of a handle
of a bat. In some embodiments, the grip retention elements may
comprise finger retention elements. In some preferred embodiments,
an upper plurality of finger retention elements and a lower
plurality of finger retention elements are provided.
[0012] A fulcrum element may be configured between the upper and
lower plurality of grip retention elements. In some embodiments the
fulcrum element comprises a hand positioning fulcrum element
designed to assist in achieving the objectives of the present
invention. In still further embodiments, the fulcrum element may
comprise a bat acceleration element corresponding to the center of
gravity of the bat.
[0013] In some preferred embodiments of the invention, a bat grip
device may comprise a handle conforming surface having a first and
second extent, the first extent capable of being connected with the
second extent so as to allow the handle conforming surface to be
retainably positioned about a handle of a bat, such as about the
circumference of the handle of the bat. In some embodiments, a
fastening element provides for the retained positioning of the bat
grip device about the handle of a bat. In other embodiments, the
invention may comprise a bat having the features disclosed herein.
The bat grip device may have a position fixed about the handle of
the bat, and in some embodiments be integral with the bat, while
other alternative embodiments provide a bat grip device that is
removably positioned about the handle of the bat.
[0014] The plurality of grip retention elements may be positioned
along the longitudinal axis of the bat grip device, an axis that
may coincide with or be the longitudinal axis of a handle of a bat
or the handle conforming surface. The plurality of grip retention
elements may be oriented in a plane perpendicular to and positioned
radially about the longitudinal axis of the bat grip device, an
axis that may coincide with or be the longitudinal axis of a handle
of a bat or the handle conforming surface. In alternative
embodiments, the grip retention elements may be oriented in a plane
oblique to the perpendicular position to the longitudinal axis. One
objective in the orientation of the grip retention elements is to
accommodate preferred grip positions of the fingers and hands of
the participant. In still further embodiments, the upper plurality
of grip retention elements, in some embodiments comprising finger
retention elements, may be oriented independently of the
orientation of the lower plurality of finger retention elements. In
still further embodiments of the invention, recessed retention
elements are positioned along the longitudinal axis of the bat grip
device as a further aid in assisting the participant with the
proper grip.
[0015] The invention may comprise technology that facilitates
batting instruction and the teaching of swing technique, and in
some preferred embodiments particularly directed to the instruction
of play in baseball and softball sports, while addressing issues
surrounding grip and hand placement during batting instruction as
described above and as may be known by coaches and players alike.
The invention may facilitate a more structural and anatomically
stable grip while allowing the participant to focus on other
aspects of the swing technique and batting instruction generally.
The invention, furthermore, is directed to particular aspects of
batting instruction that may focus upon recognized needs for,
achieving the forward and rearward motions necessary to achieve the
proper swing. In some aspects of batting, the instructed motions
manifest to achieve assisting the participants in understanding
what it means to rotate the bat about its center of gravity, to
create a push-pull force in the swing, and to achieve what some
would describe as a `force coupling` of participant with the bat
during the swing. Other features are disclosed as embodiments of
the invention.
[0016] Methods of swinging a bat are further disclosed. In some
embodiments, a method batting instruction is also disclosed. In one
embodiment, a method of swinging a bat is disclosed having the
steps of providing a plurality of grip retention elements about the
handle of a bat, in some embodiments finger retention elements,
gripping an upper plurality of the grip retention elements with a
first hand, gripping a lower plurality of the grip retention
elements with a second hand, and accelerating the bat by
application of force to the bat whereby application of force is
directed to the bat through the grip retention elements.
[0017] In some embodiments, a method of swinging a bat is disclosed
having the steps of providing a fulcrum element, and in some
embodiments a hand positioning fulcrum element, configured between
upper and lower plurality of grip retention elements about the
handle of a bat, gripping an upper plurality of the grip retention
elements with a first hand, gripping a lower plurality of the grip
retention elements with a second hand, and accelerating the bat
about the fulcrum element, whereby accelerating the bat is provided
by application of force directed to the bat through the grip
retention elements and through the fulcrum element.
[0018] Still other methods such as those corresponding to each
apparatus, device and assembly are also disclosed, as well as
methods of doing business and instruction.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0020] FIG. 2 is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0021] FIG. 3 is a side view of the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and
2.
[0022] FIG. 4 is an end view of the embodiment of FIGS. 1, 2 and
3.
[0023] FIG. 5 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the
present invention.
[0024] FIG. 6 is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 5.
[0025] FIG. 7 is a side view of the embodiment of FIGS. 5 and
6.
[0026] FIG. 8 is an end view of the embodiment of FIGS. 5, 6 and
7.
[0027] FIG. 9 is a diagram of one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0028] FIG. 10 is a diagram of a second embodiment of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0029] The present invention is described in preferred embodiments
that address one or more inadequacies of the prior art, such as the
inadequacies and unmet needs previously described regarding
traditional batting techniques. Each embodiment of the invention is
shown and described in the Figures, written description, and claims
and throughout the disclosure of this application. Accordingly, the
present invention is embodied as apparatus and device and further
embodied as methods, processes and products by process, such
embodiments directed to overcome the inadequacies and provide for
the unmet needs in batting instruction. Still other methods such as
those corresponding to each apparatus, device and assembly are also
disclosed, as well as methods of doing business and
instruction.
[0030] Bat grip devices and methods are disclosed that are provided
in some embodiments for developing swing technique for batting in
sports such as baseball and softball. The invention may be provided
alone, such as an accessory or tool that is implemented as part of
batting instruction and that is a separate component to the bat. In
still further embodiments, the invention may be provided in
combination with a bat, such as a feature of the bat and integral
to the bat and bat handle in manufacture. The invention in some
embodiments comprises methods of batting and batting instruction as
well as swing technique, and alternatively may be incorporated into
traditional batting instruction. The invention in some embodiments
may be utilized in batting instruction while still further
embodiments may be incorporated into actual baseball and softball
play should league rules allow.
[0031] Accordingly, the invention in some preferred embodiments is
described and disclosed as methods of swinging a bat. Encompassed
within this disclosure and reference to swinging a bat are methods
of batting instruction and methods of swing technique. Each of
these methods incorporate and have inherent the actual swinging of
a bat and the steps thereof, whereas the teaching of batting
instruction and methods of swing technique simply provide a mode of
swinging the bat, i.e. under instructional method for the
participant or with a focus upon how the swing is initiated and
carried out. Each of these methods is expressly disclosed herein.
Furthermore, with reference to bat grip, the disclosure is intended
to fully encompass the swinging of the bat, and the mechanics of
the bat motion, as it relates generally to baseball and softball,
as well as the effects and applications of applying not only the
grip but the body motions and mechanics described herein. Therefore
the invention should not be construed as limited only to hand
positioning and grip as it relates to swinging a bat.
[0032] As previously described, the invention may comprise
technology that facilitates batting instruction and the teaching of
swing technique, generally referred to as swinging a bat, and in
some preferred embodiments particularly directed to the instruction
of play in baseball and softball sports, while addressing issues
surrounding grip and hand placement during batting instruction as
described above and as may be known by coaches and players alike.
The invention may facilitate a more structural and anatomically
stable grip while allowing the participant to focus on other
aspects of the swing technique and batting instruction generally.
The invention, furthermore, is directed to particular aspects of
batting instruction that may focus upon recognized needs for
achieving the forward and rearward motions necessary to achieve the
proper swing. In some aspects of batting, the instructed motions
manifest to achieve assisting the participants in understanding
what it means to rotate the bat about its center of gravity, to
create a push-pull force in the swing, and to achieve what some
would describe as a `force coupling` of participant with the bat
during the swing. Other features are disclosed as embodiments of
the invention. One objective in the orientation of the grip
retention elements is to accommodate preferred grip positions of
the fingers and hands of the participant.
[0033] Accordingly, FIGS. 1 and 5 describe two preferred
embodiments of the present invention. Bat grip device 10, 100 may
each be configured to a bat handle or grip portion having a
generally cylindrical shape as shown and may have an inner profile
12, 102 in some embodiments that accommodates the outer surface of
a baseball or softball bat. The portions of the bat used in the
typical swing for gripping the bat are herein referred to as the
handle of the bat, and may comprise the bat handle, bat grip, or
other portion of the bat.
[0034] Some embodiments may even accommodate a tapering bat handle
or grip that tapers in a reduced diameter toward the end of the bat
opposite the barrel of the bat. In some embodiments, the thickness
of the bat grip device may be increased at one end to accommodate
for the tapering of the handle or grip portion of the bat. Other
embodiments may be configured in a constant thickness, wherein the
flexible and conformable material of some embodiments of the bat
grip device 10, 100 simply accommodate any bat handle or grip
simply given its circumferential extent of its inner profile, its
flexible and conformable characteristics, and comprise a retention
element such that the bat grip device 10, 100 may be removably
positioned about the handle of the bat.
[0035] The material of the present invention comprising bat grip
device 10, 100 may be of any flexible and conformable material that
allows for the device to be removably positioned about the handle
of the bat while allowing the participant to comfortably grip the
bat while keeping a reliable grip and hold, as well as a material
that may withstand repeated use. Accordingly, the material may
consist of rubber, form rubber, or other similar material having
these characteristics. Alternatively, and if a more resilient and
permanent solution is considered, the device could be produced from
a hard rubber or plastic, particularly for embodiments that will be
fixedly positioned on the bat or that are integral with the
bat.
[0036] As previously mentioned, embodiments of the invention
comprise features having a removably positioned characteristic
allowing for the present invention to be applied and removed from
one or more bats, and for the ability of the invention to be
manufactured and sold as an accessory to a baseball bat.
Alternatively, the invention may comprise embodiments wherein the
device is fixedly positioned and retained to a single bat. In some
embodiments, the invention may be permanently fastened to a bat,
such as by way of adhesive or a mechanical fastener. However, in
light of current baseball league regulations, and in reference to
certain training techniques, a removably positioned device may be
preferred, to allow for a single bat to be used for practice,
instruction and play, as well as to provide for a removable and
transportable characteristic of the present invention.
[0037] Again in reference to FIGS. 1 and 5, a bat grip device 10
and a bat grip device 100 is described. Bat grip devices 10, 100
may comprise in some preferred embodiments a handle conforming
surface 14, 104 having a first and second extent, the first extent
16, 106 capable of being connected with the second extent 18, 108
so as to allow the handle conforming surface 14, 104 to be
retainably positioned about a handle of a bat, such as about the
circumference of the handle of the bat. In some applications, the
first extent may not contact the second extent when retainably
positioned about a handle of a bat, such as when the circumference
of the handle exceeds the dimensions of the inner profile, for
example if the diameter of the handle exceeds the diameter of the
inner profile.
[0038] However, non-contact of the first and second extent does not
detract from the features and advantages of the present invention.
The provision of the retainably positioned first and second extents
and further in some embodiments with reference to a fastening
element, further described below, provides for the retained
positioning of the bat grip device about the handle of a bat and so
as to accommodate varying handle dimensions while keeping a
preferred position on the handle of the bat. For example, if a bat
handle is too wide, having a large diameter that would not allow
the first and second extents to contact one another, the present
invention can accommodate the larger handle wherein the fastening
element will keep the first and second extents retainably
positioned about the handle, and wherein a separation 20, 120
between the first and second extents accommodates the larger
handle.
[0039] In some embodiments, a fastening element provides for the
retained positioning of the bat grip device about the handle of a
bat. In other embodiments, the invention may comprise a bat and
having the features disclosed herein. Generally, however, the bat
grip device is positioned about or is configured to the handle of a
bat. It may have a position fixed about the handle of the bat, and
in some embodiments be integral with the bat, while other
alternative embodiments provide a bat grip device that is removably
positioned about the handle of the bat.
[0040] In some embodiments, a fastening element provides for the
retained positioning of the bat grip device about the handle of a
bat. In one embodiment, an adjustable fastening element such as one
or more straps, elastic materials, or Velcro fasteners may be
provided that removably position the grip device about the handle
of the bat. The fastening element may further retainably position
the first and second extents as described above in order to further
accomplish positioning the grip device. In one embodiment, a strap
or Velcro fastener may be provided at one or more fastening points
22, 122 that in some embodiments connect the first and second
extents of the device. In some preferred embodiments straps or
fasteners wrap around the outer circumference of the device at the
fastening points 22, 122.
[0041] In still alternative embodiments, straps or fasteners attach
to the device at the fastening points. Embodiments of the invention
also may preferably allow for the participant to determine where
the one or more fastening elements will be positioned on the device
in removably positioning the grip device about the handle of the
bat, making the fastening points 22, 122 a flexible and changeable
feature.
[0042] Now in reference to FIGS. 2, 3 and 4, one embodiment of the
present invention of FIG. 1 is described in top, side and end
views. Separation 20 and first and second extents 16 and 18 may be
more easily viewed in these figures. Furthermore, and in reference
to FIGS. 6, 7 and 8, a second embodiment of the present invention
of FIG. 5 is also described in top, side and end views. Separation
120 and first and second extents 106 and 108 may be more easily
viewed in these figures. These figures describe and disclose two
embodiments that may comprise features accommodating various sizes
of bats, or may each accommodate varying sizes of participants'
hands and grip, as further described below. These figures also
further describe other features and aspects of the present
invention as further described herein.
[0043] The invention in some embodiments may comprise a bat grip
device 10 and bat grip device 100 having a plurality of grip
retention elements. The plurality of grip retention elements,
described in reference to FIGS. 1 through 4 as elements 24 and as
elements 124 in reference to FIGS. 5 through 8, may be integral
with a handle conforming surface 14, 104 and positioned
longitudinally along the axis of the handle conforming surface as
shown in the Figures. The longitudinal axis of the handle
conforming surface 14, 104 may coincide with and be the
longitudinal axis of a handle of a bat. Correspondingly, the
plurality of grip retention elements 24, 124 may be positioned
longitudinally along the axis of the handle of a bat.
[0044] In some embodiments, the grip retention elements 24, 124 may
comprise finger retention elements. The finger retention elements
are configured so that a participant may place a hand and fingers
about the finger retention elements so that each finger is
interposed between finger retention elements. In some embodiments,
the grip retention elements 24, 124 may extend less than the
circumference of the bat grip device, and in some embodiments,
extend less than the circumference of the handle conforming
surface. The grip retention elements 24, 124 in some preferred
embodiments extend only a distance to interpose between fingers of
the hands of a participant as a grip, while the hand of the
participant may contact other portions of the bat grip device 10,
100, such as those portions of the bat grip device extending the
remaining circumference.
[0045] In alternative embodiments, the grip retention elements 24,
124 may extend the circumference of the handle conforming surface,
and accordingly other portions of the participants hands may
contact or interact with the grip retention elements 24, 124 in
accordance with the features and objectives of the present
invention. The use of the device may be adapted to any particular
swing technique or batting instruction or style.
[0046] In some preferred embodiments, an upper plurality of grip
retention elements 26, 126 and a lower plurality of grip retention
elements 28, 128 are provided. In some embodiments these upper and
lower pluralities are each referred to as upper plurality of finger
retention elements and lower plurality of finger retention
elements, respectively. Each upper and lower portion are configured
corresponding to one hand and fingers of a participant and may
accommodate a left or right handed participant.
[0047] A fulcrum element 30, 130 may be configured between the
upper and lower plurality of grip retention elements. In some
embodiments the fulcrum element 30, 130 comprises a hand
positioning fulcrum element. The fulcrum element 30, 130 is
designed to assist in achieving the objectives of the present
invention. In still further embodiments, the fulcrum element may
comprise a bat acceleration element corresponding to the center of
gravity of the bat. Each of these features is further described
below.
[0048] The plurality of grip retention elements 24, 124 may be
positioned along the longitudinal axis of the bat grip device, an
axis that may coincide with or be the longitudinal axis of a handle
of a bat or the handle conforming surface. The plurality of grip
retention elements 24, 124 may be oriented in a plane perpendicular
to and positioned radially about the longitudinal axis of the bat
grip device, an axis that may coincide with or be the longitudinal
axis of a handle of a bat or the handle conforming surface.
[0049] In alternative embodiments, the grip retention elements 24,
124 may be oriented in a plane oblique to the perpendicular
position to the longitudinal axis of the bat grip device, an axis
that may coincide with or be the longitudinal axis of a handle of a
bat or the handle conforming surface. The grip retention elements
oriented in a plane oblique to the perpendicular position to the
longitudinal axis would simply be configured at an angle respective
of the grip retention elements 24, 124 described in the
figures.
[0050] One objective in the orientation of the grip retention
elements is to accommodate preferred grip positions of the fingers
and hands of the participant. Orientations of the grip retention
elements oriented in a plane oblique to the perpendicular position
to the longitudinal axis might allow a participant to modify their
swing such that, for example, the motions of the upper and lower
hands and arms can be modified in initiating and during the swing.
In still further embodiments, the upper plurality of grip retention
elements, in some embodiments comprising finger retention elements,
may be oriented independently of the orientation of the lower
plurality of finger retention elements. Many other objectives in
swinging the bat may be obtained with such orientations as may be
appreciated by one skilled in the art.
[0051] In still further embodiments of the invention, recessed
retention elements 32, 132 are positioned along the longitudinal
axis of the bat grip device as a further aid in assisting the
participant with the proper grip. The recessed retention elements
32, 132 may provide a feature by which the participant's hands, and
in some embodiments fingers, may contact the handle of the bat. In
still further embodiments, the combination of the recessed
retention elements 32, 132 and the grip retention elements 24, 124
provide enhanced grip characteristics, swing features, and other
features and objectives of the present invention.
[0052] As previously described, a fulcrum element 30, 130 may be
configured between the upper and lower plurality of grip retention
elements. The fulcrum element 30, 130 serves to provide a moment or
pivot about which the participant may focus the movement and forces
of the upper and lower hands and arms. In some embodiments, the
fulcrum element allows for particular aspects of batting
instruction that may focus upon recognized needs for achieving the
forward and rearward motions necessary to achieve the proper swing.
In some aspects of batting, the instructed motions manifest to
achieve assisting the participants in understanding what it means
to rotate the bat about its center of gravity, to create a
push-pull force in the swing, and to achieve what some would
describe as a `force coupling` of participant with the bat during
the swing. In one example, as the participant initiates their
swing, the participant may be taught at a point in the swing to
pull or adjust the swing so as to feel a pull of the lower hand,
and the participant may be taught at a point in the swing to push
or adjust the swing so as to feel a push of the lower hand.
Accordingly the coupling of the forces for each hand aid in
creating a swing of the bat that may considered to rotate about the
center of gravity of the bat, and such as may be determined in
combination with the grip and connection of the participant to the
bat. In still further embodiments, the fulcrum element may comprise
a bat acceleration element, affecting and creating movement of the
bat as described above. In still additional embodiments, the bat
acceleration element may correspond to the center of gravity of the
bat as would be understood from the physics and mechanics of the
swing in relation to the participant and the swung bat.
[0053] In still further embodiments, the combination of the fulcrum
element 30, 130 with other aspects of the invention, such as the
recessed retention elements 32, 132 or the grip retention elements
24, 124, or both, or further features of the invention in
combination, provide enhanced grip characteristics, swing features,
and other features and objectives of the present invention.
[0054] Now in reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, methods of swinging a
bat are further disclosed. As previously described, these methods
further comprise and disclose methods of batting instruction and
methods of swing technique, as would be understood by those skilled
in the art. In one embodiment, a method of swinging a bat is
disclosed beginning with the step 100 of providing a plurality of
grip retention elements about the handle of a bat, in some
embodiments finger retention elements. The following step of
swinging would provide for the participant 102 gripping an upper
plurality of the grip retention elements with a first hand, and
then step 104 gripping a lower plurality of the grip retention
elements with a second hand, followed by step 106 accelerating the
bat by application of force to the bat whereby application of force
is directed to the bat through the grip retention elements. Further
steps are disclosed throughout this application and in view of the
functionality described with regard to the bat grip device.
[0055] Now in reference to FIG. 10, in some embodiments, a method
of swinging a bat is disclosed initiated by the step of 200
providing a fulcrum element, and in some embodiments a hand
positioning fulcrum element, configured between upper and lower
plurality of grip retention elements about the handle of a bat.
This step is followed by the step 202 of gripping an upper
plurality of the grip retention elements with a first hand, and
step 204 gripping a lower plurality of the grip retention elements
with a second hand, followed by step 206 accelerating the bat about
the fulcrum element, whereby accelerating the bat is provided by
application of force directed to the bat through the grip retention
elements and through the fulcrum element.
[0056] Manufacturing methods and products by process are clearly
defined as features of the present invention, and may further be
disclosed as methods of manufacturing bat grip devices, consistent
with the present invention as previously described. As previously
mentioned, the methods of swinging a bat equally apply to methods
of batting instruction and swing technique, and as such methods of
doing business are further disclosed.
[0057] As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic
concepts of the present invention may be embodied in a variety of
ways. It involves techniques as well as one or more apparatus,
device and assembly, as well as devices, assemblages and several
apparatus that may provide for the appropriate techniques. In this
application, the techniques of the present invention in some
embodiments are disclosed as part of the results shown to be
achieved by the various devices, assemblages and several apparatus
described and as steps that are inherent to utilization. They are
simply the natural result of utilizing the devices, assemblages or
several apparatus as intended and described. In addition, while
some devices and apparatus are disclosed, it should be understood
that these not only accomplish certain methods but also can be
varied in a number of ways. Importantly, as to all of the
foregoing, all of these embodiments are encompassed by this
disclosure.
[0058] Further, each of the various elements or steps of the
invention may also be achieved in a variety of manners. This
disclosure should be understood to encompass each such variation,
be it a variation of an apparatus embodiment, a method or process
embodiment, or even merely a variation of any element of these.
Particularly, it should be understood that as the disclosure
relates to specific features of the invention, the words for each
feature may be expressed by equivalent apparatus, device, assembly
or method terms--even if only the function or result is the same.
Such equivalent, broader, or even more generic terms should be
considered to be disclosed for each element, step, or action. Such
terms can be substituted where desired to make explicit the
implicitly broad coverage to which this invention is entitled. As
but one example, it should be understood that all actions or
functions may be expressed as a means for taking that action or
achieving that function, or as an element which causes that action
or has that function. Similarly, each physical element disclosed
should be understood to encompass a disclosure of the action or
function which is facilitated by that physical element.
[0059] Any acts of law, statutes, regulations, or rules mentioned
in this application for patent; or any patents, publications, or
other references mentioned in this application for patent are
hereby incorporated by reference. In addition, as to each term used
it should be understood that unless its utilization in this
application is inconsistent with such interpretation as would be
understood by one of ordinary skill in the art from this
disclosure, common dictionary definitions should be understood as
incorporated for each term and all definitions, alternative terms,
and synonyms such as contained in the Random House Webster's
Unabridged Dictionary, second edition are hereby incorporated by
reference. However, as to each of the above, to the extent that
such references, information or statements incorporated by
reference might be considered inconsistent with the patenting of
the invention, such as contradicting disclosed features ascertained
by a reading of these patent documents, such information and
statements are expressly not to be considered incorporated by
reference and more particularly as not made by the Applicant.
Furthermore, as to any dictionary definition or other extrinsic
evidence utilized to construe this disclosure, if more than one
definition is consistent with the use of the words in the intrinsic
record, the claim terms should be construed to encompass all such
consistent meanings.
[0060] Furthermore, if or when used, the use of the transitional
phrase "comprising" is used to maintain "open-end" disclosure
herein, according to traditional disclosure and claim
interpretation. Thus, unless the context requires otherwise, it
should be understood that the term "comprise" or variations such as
"comprises" or "comprising", are intended to imply the inclusion of
a stated element or step or group of elements or steps but not the
exclusion of any other element or step or group of elements or
steps. Such terms should be interpreted in their most expansive
form so as to afford the applicant the broadest coverage legally
permissible.
* * * * *