U.S. patent application number 12/861245 was filed with the patent office on 2011-12-15 for sports training apparatus for launching sports balls.
This patent application is currently assigned to Phoenix Soccer Inc.. Invention is credited to Alan Andrews, Joe Shober.
Application Number | 20110303207 12/861245 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43618899 |
Filed Date | 2011-12-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110303207 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Shober; Joe ; et
al. |
December 15, 2011 |
SPORTS TRAINING APPARATUS FOR LAUNCHING SPORTS BALLS
Abstract
A sports training apparatus for launching sports balls. The
sports training apparatus has the ability to launch a sports ball,
such as, for example, a soccer ball or a volleyball, at various
power levels, at many different angles, with many different types
of spin, and can be remotely controlled or programmed with a
pre-determined launching pattern. The ball projecting mechanism
launches a sports ball by way of a striking leg member which is
powered by a compressible spring and detent rod assembly.
Inventors: |
Shober; Joe; (Phillipsburn,
NJ) ; Andrews; Alan; (Charlottetown, CA) |
Assignee: |
Phoenix Soccer Inc.
Winsloe
CA
|
Family ID: |
43618899 |
Appl. No.: |
12/861245 |
Filed: |
August 23, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
124/54 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2069/402 20130101;
A63B 2047/004 20130101; A63B 69/408 20130101; A63B 69/002 20130101;
A63B 2225/50 20130101; A63B 69/407 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
124/54 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/40 20060101
A63B069/40 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 21, 2009 |
CA |
2,676,348 |
Claims
1. A sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
comprising: a horizontal base-frame; a main-frame pivotally mounted
on said base-frame; a rotating linear actuator with built-in linear
resistor affixed to said base-frame and to said main-frame for
rotating said main-frame with respect to said base-frame within a
horizontal plane above said base-frame upon extension or retraction
of said rotating linear actuator with built-in linear resistor; a
means for projecting a sports ball mounted on said main-frame; a
means for supporting a sports ball mounted on said main-frame in
operational association with said means for projecting a sports
ball; a function controlling means; a plurality of electronic
control and electronic drive systems; a sports training apparatus
controlling means; and a power supply means; said means for
projecting a sports ball comprises: an arcuate structure having a
first end pivotally connected to a pair of support members having a
common axis of rotation and said support members being rigidly
affixed to said main-frame; a lobbing linear actuator with built-in
linear resistor connected to said arcuate structure and to said
main-frame for adjusting a radial orientation of said arcuate
structure about said common axis of rotation for optionally
changing an impact point on a sports ball by said ball striking
means when said sports ball is supported by said means for
supporting a sports ball; a ball striking means comprising a
striking leg member having a first end pivotally connected to said
arcuate structure for pendulous movement along a striking path
along a plane; a compressing linear actuator with built-in linear
resistor connected to said arcuate structure and having a linear
motion along said plane of said striking leg member; and a
compressible spring and detent rod assembly connected between a
second end of said arcuate structure and said striking leg member
for moving said striking leg member along said striking path
between a cocked position and a striking position and vice-versa
upon extension of said compressing linear actuator with built-in
linear resistor; said compressible spring and detent rod assembly
comprises a means to store potential energy, at least one detent
rod, and a latching mechanism for engaging said at least one detent
rod at one of a plurality of detents on said at least one detent
rod for retaining said striking leg member in said cocked position;
said means for supporting a sports ball comprises a sports ball
support cup, a horizontal axis, a vertical axis, a vertical motion
linear actuator with built-in linear resistor, and a horizontal
motion linear actuator with built-in linear resistor for varying a
point of impact against said sports ball to impart a spin and a
curving trajectory to said sports ball; wherein said sports
training apparatus controlling means relays input signals from said
sports training apparatus controlling means and translates them
into output signals causing said plurality of electronic control
and electronic drive systems to perform a desired function; wherein
said sports training apparatus controlling means, said plurality of
electronic control and electronic drive systems are powered by said
power supply means.
2. A sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
comprising: a horizontal base-frame; a main-frame pivotally mounted
on said base-frame; a rotating linear actuator with built-in linear
resistor affixed to said base-frame and to said main-frame for
rotating said main-frame with respect to said base-frame within a
horizontal plane above said base-frame upon extension or retraction
of said rotating linear actuator with built-in linear resistor; a
means for projecting a sports ball mounted on said main-frame; a
means for supporting a sports ball mounted on said main-frame in
operational association with said means for projecting a sports
ball; a function controlling means; a plurality of electronic
control and electronic drive systems; a sports training apparatus
controlling means; and a power supply means; said means for
projecting a sports ball comprises: an arcuate structure having a
first end pivotally connected to a pair of support members having a
common axis of rotation and said support members being rigidly
affixed to said main-frame; a lobbing linear actuator with built-in
linear resistor connected to said arcuate structure and to said
main-frame for adjusting a radial orientation of said arcuate
structure about said common axis of rotation for optionally
changing an impact point on a sports ball by said ball striking
means when said sports ball is supported by said means for
supporting a sports ball; a ball striking means comprising a
striking leg member having a first end pivotally connected to said
arcuate structure for pendulous movement along a striking path
along a plane; a compressing linear actuator with built-in linear
resistor connected to said arcuate structure and having a linear
motion along said plane of said striking leg member; and a
compressible spring and detent assembly connected between a second
end of said arcuate structure and said striking leg member for
moving said striking leg member along said striking path between a
cocked position and a striking position and vice-versa upon
extension of said compressing linear actuator with built-in linear
resistor; said compressible spring and detent assembly comprises a
means to store potential energy, at least one rod, a telescoping
tube extending parallel to the rod, the telescoping tube being
connected to the rod for simultaneous movement with the rod, and a
latching mechanism for engaging a plurality of detents disposed on
the telescoping tube for retaining said striking leg member in said
cocked position; said means for supporting a sports ball comprises
a sports ball support cup, a horizontal axis, a vertical axis, a
vertical motion linear actuator with built-in linear resistor, and
a horizontal motion linear actuator with built-in linear resistor
for varying a point of impact against said sports ball to impart a
spin and a curving trajectory to said sports ball; wherein said
sports training apparatus controlling means relays input signals
from said sports training apparatus controlling means and
translates them into output signals causing said plurality of
electronic control and electronic drive systems to perform a
desired function; wherein said sports training apparatus
controlling means, said plurality of electronic control and
electronic drive systems are powered by said power supply
means.
3. The sports training apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the
telescoping tube includes an outer tube member and an inner tube
member, the inner tube member being slidably movable inside the
outer tube member, and the inner tube member being connected to the
rod.
4. The sports training apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the
latching mechanism comprises one or more pulleys and a cable, the
cable being connected to a trigger release bracket which is
activated by the rearward motion of the linear actuator for urging
upwardly a sliding latch of the latching mechanism from the detents
on the telescoping tube.
5. The sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
according to claim 1, further comprises a sports ball storage ramp
and a control gate for automatically loading said sports ball onto
said means for supporting a sports ball, said sports ball storage
ramp is mounted above said means for projecting a sports ball and
said control gate is positioned above a low end of said sports ball
storage ramp and is operated by a solenoid actuator to let said
sports ball fall one at a time onto said means for supporting a
sports ball.
6. The sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
according to claim 1, further comprising an enclosure for
protecting the interior components of said sports training
apparatus for launching sports balls from environmental
hazards.
7. The sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
according to claim 3, wherein said enclosure further comprises an
opening in a top surface thereof communicating with an inlet
portion of said sports ball storage ramp for loading said sports
ball storage ramp with a plurality of sports balls.
8. The sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
according to claim 1, wherein said means to store potential energy
comprises of at least one compressible spring.
9. The sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
according to claim 1, wherein said means to store potential energy
comprises of at least one compressible bushing.
10. The sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
according to claim 1, wherein said function controlling means is a
control panel located on said sports training apparatus for
launching sports balls containing thereon a plurality of buttons
and control knobs.
11. The sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
according to claim 7, further comprising an external remote control
wherein said external remote control can perform the same functions
as said control panel.
12. The sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
according to claim 8, wherein said external remote control has
wireless connectivity with said sports training apparatus
controlling means.
13. The sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
according to claim 1, wherein said sports training apparatus
controlling means comprises of a microcontroller.
14. The sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
according to claim 1, wherein said sports training apparatus
controlling means comprises a field-programmable gate array.
15. The sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
according to claim 1, wherein said power supply means comprises of
at least one rechargeable battery.
16. The sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
according to claim 12, further comprising at least one solar panel
for charging said at least one rechargeable battery.
17. The sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
according to claim 1, further comprising front support wheels and
rear support wheels affixed to said base-frame for movement of the
sports training apparatus for launching sports balls for easy
movement of said sports training apparatus for launching sports
balls.
18. The sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
according to claim 14, further comprising a towing handle, whereby
when said towing handle is in a substantially vertical position a
brake system on said rear support wheels are engaged and when said
towing handle is lowered for towing said brake system on said rear
support wheels are disengaged.
19. The sports training apparatus for launching sports balls
according to claim 1, further comprising a safety release
mechanism, wherein when said striking leg member is in said cocked
position a manual release trigger will release said latching
mechanism from one of said plurality of detents on said at least
one detent rod which then triggers said means for projecting a
sports ball and move said striking leg member into said striking
position.
20. A method of launching a sports ball according to the sports
training apparatus for launching sports balls as defined in claim
comprising the steps of: loading said sports ball onto said sports
ball support cup; positioning said sports ball support cup using
said vertical motion linear actuator with built-in linear resistor
and said horizontal motion linear actuator with built-in linear
resistor to impart a desired spin on said sports ball; radially
positioning said means for projecting a sports ball to effect a
desired arcing path of said sports ball; extending said compressing
linear actuator with built-in linear resistor to compress and store
a potential energy in said means to store potential energy to
strike said sports ball with a desired force; retracting said
compressing linear actuator with built-in linear resistor while
said striking leg member is kept in said cocked position by said
latching mechanism on one of said plurality of detents on said at
least one detent rod; and releasing said potential energy stored in
said means to store potential energy causing said striking leg
member to strike said sports ball.
21. An apparatus for casting a sports ball for training purposes,
the apparatus comprising: a) a platform; b) a frame rotatably
mounted on the platform; c) a ball projecting means mounted on the
frame for casting a sports ball in a manner suitable for various
training exercises; and d) a remote control and programming means
for actuating the ball projecting means for casting the sports ball
according to the desired training exercise.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to sports training apparatuses
for launching a sports ball, and more specifically to improvements
in traditional sports ball launching apparatuses. In particular,
the invention relates to a sports training apparatus with the
ability to launch a ball, such as, for example, a soccer ball or a
volleyball, at a plurality of power levels, at a plurality of
different angles, with a plurality of different types of spin, and
can be remotely controlled or programmed with a pre-determined
launching pattern. Additionally, the sports training apparatus can
be powered by batteries allowing for use in remote locations.
[0002] The present invention is an improvement over U.S. Pat. No.
5,911,214 issued Jun. 15, 1999 wherein a soccer ball projecting
apparatus is disclosed. Further developments have been revealed
that outline the need for the production of an upgraded ball
projecting apparatus. For a ready understanding of the current
state of the soccer ball projecting apparatus, the reader is
directed to U.S. Pat. No. 5,911,214.
[0003] To become proficient at any sport, it is necessary to
practice for countless amounts of hours to be able to develop the
skills to perform difficult fast paced moves with split second
timing and accuracy. Not only is there a need to repeatedly
practice a single manoeuvre a multitude of times to become
proficient, but there is also a need to practice a series of
different maneuvers in succession to simulate real in-game
situations. Generally, in traditional sports ball launching
devices, the apparatus is only capable of providing a single
repetitive launch type unless the specific settings are manually
changed between launches, which does not accurately represent true
in game situations. Different launch type settings may include
projecting the sports ball at different power levels, at different
angles (i.e., different directions) and with different spins on the
ball (i.e. ability to curve the sports ball).
[0004] United States Patent Application No. 2008/0032828 published
Feb. 7, 2008 (Alger) discloses a system for delivering objects,
such as soccer balls for training purposes. The delivery device
includes an accelerator that accepts, accelerates and launches the
ball with motion characteristics, such as linear acceleration,
angular acceleration, or a combination of both. The balls are
accelerated using a fly wheel system similar to most baseball
pitching machines. The assembly adjusts the position of the
accelerator to adjust the exit trajectory of the object including
adjustment about the yaw axis, elevation axis and a spin axis of
the ball. The device can be remotely controlled wirelessly through
a radio frequency receiver and transmitter. The delivery device
also includes an electronic control system having stored training
programs for selective use and executed in either pre-programmed or
real-time-selected sequences. Additionally, the power source is
portable utilizing one or more rechargeable batteries.
[0005] U.S. Pat. No. 6,488,020 issued Dec. 3, 2002 (Rosas-Magallan)
discloses a training machine which projects soccer balls by means
of propelling wheels. The machine propels balls with a maximum
degree of freedom in selecting ball trajectories at various angles,
distances and velocities. An electrical control regulates the speed
of each of the propelling wheels, providing a variety of spin
control to the ball.
[0006] United States Patent Application No. 2005/0103318 published
May 19, 2005 (Leal et al.) discloses a sports ball throwing
apparatus utilizing compressed air to project the sports ball. The
apparatus is adjustable in both the azimuth and elevation for
launching in various directions and also has a means for adding a
spin to the sports ball.
[0007] United States Patent Application No. 2002/0185120 published
Dec. 12, 2002 (Scott) discloses a baseball pitching system for
allowing an individual to operate a baseball pitching machine
similar to an actual human pitcher. The system includes a central
processing unit which manipulates the velocity of the pitching
wheels to create the desired pitch. Pre-programmed pitching
sequences and random pitching sequences may be entered into the
system central processing unit.
[0008] The present invention was conceived and developed having
regard to the known prior art and with the purpose of providing an
improved sports training apparatus with the ability to project a
ball, and more specifically, a soccer ball or a volleyball, at a
plurality of power levels, at a plurality of different angles, with
a plurality of different types of spin, and can be remotely
controlled or programmed with a pre-determined launching
pattern.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] It is therefore an object of the present invention to
provide a sports training apparatus for launching sports balls.
[0010] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention,
there is provided an apparatus for casting a sports ball for
training purposes, the apparatus including a platform; a frame
rotatably mounted on the platform; a ball projecting means mounted
on the frame for casting a sports ball in a manner suitable for
various training exercises; and a remote control and programming
means for actuating the ball projecting means for casting the
sports ball according to the desired training exercise.
[0011] According to a further aspect of the present invention,
there is provided a sports training apparatus for launching sports
balls comprising a horizontal base-frame, a main-frame pivotally
mounted on the base-frame, a rotating linear actuator with built-in
linear resistor affixed to the base-frame and to the main-frame for
rotating the main-frame with respect to the base-frame within a
horizontal plane above the base-frame upon extension or retraction
of the rotating linear actuator with built-in linear resistor, a
means for projecting a sports ball mounted on the main-frame, a
means for supporting a sports ball mounted on the main-frame in
operational association with the means for projecting a sports
ball, a function controlling means, a plurality of electronic
control and electronic drive systems, a sports training apparatus
controlling means, and a power supply means. The means for
projecting a sports ball comprises an arcuate structure having a
first end pivotally connected to a pair of support members having a
common axis of rotation and the support members being rigidly
affixed to the main-frame, a lobbing linear actuator with built-in
linear resistor connected to the arcuate structure and to the
main-frame for adjusting a radial orientation of the arcuate
structure about the common axis of rotation for optionally changing
an impact point on a sports ball by the ball striking means when
the sports ball is supported by the means for supporting a sports
ball, a ball striking means comprising a striking leg member having
a first end pivotally connected to the arcuate structure for
pendulous movement along a striking path along a plane, a
compressing linear actuator with built-in linear resistor connected
to the arcuate structure and having a linear motion along the plane
of the striking leg member, and a compressible spring and detent
rod assembly connected between a second end of the arcuate
structure and the striking leg member for moving the striking leg
member along the striking path between a cocked position and a
striking position and vice-versa upon extension of the compressing
linear actuator with built-in linear resistor. The compressible
spring and detent rod assembly comprises a means to store potential
energy, at least one detent rod, and a latching mechanism for
engaging the at least one detent rod at one of a plurality of
detents on the at least one detent rod for retaining the striking
leg member in the cocked position. The means for supporting a
sports ball comprises a sports ball support cup, a horizontal axis,
a vertical axis, a vertical motion linear actuator with built-in
linear resistor, and a horizontal motion linear actuator with
built-in linear resistor for varying a point of impact against the
sports ball to impart a spin and a curving trajectory to the sports
ball. The sports training apparatus controlling means relays input
signals from the sports training apparatus controlling means and
translates them into output signals causing the plurality of
electronic control and electronic drive systems to perform a
desired function. The sports training apparatus controlling means,
the plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems
are powered by the power supply means.
[0012] In accordance with still another embodiment of the present
invention, there is provided a sports training apparatus for
launching sports balls comprising: a horizontal base-frame; a
main-frame pivotally mounted on said base-frame; a rotating linear
actuator with built-in linear resistor affixed to said base-frame
and to said main-frame for rotating said main-frame with respect to
said base-frame within a horizontal plane above said base-frame
upon extension or retraction of said rotating linear actuator with
built-in linear resistor; a means for projecting a sports ball
mounted on said main-frame; a means for supporting a sports ball
mounted on said main-frame in operational association with said
means for projecting a sports ball; a function controlling means; a
plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems; a
sports training apparatus controlling means; and a power supply
means; said means for projecting a sports ball comprises: an
arcuate structure having a first end pivotally connected to a pair
of support members having a common axis of rotation and said
support members being rigidly affixed to said main-frame; a lobbing
linear actuator with built-in linear resistor connected to said
arcuate structure and to said main-frame for adjusting a radial
orientation of said arcuate structure about said common axis of
rotation for optionally changing an impact point on a sports ball
by said ball striking means when said sports ball is supported by
said means for supporting a sports ball; a ball striking means
comprising a striking leg member having a first end pivotally
connected to said arcuate structure for pendulous movement along a
striking path along a plane; a compressing linear actuator with
built-in linear resistor connected to said arcuate structure and
having a linear motion along said plane of said striking leg
member; and a compressible spring and detent assembly connected
between a second end of said arcuate structure and said striking
leg member for moving said striking leg member along said striking
path between a cocked position and a striking position and
vice-versa upon extension of said compressing linear actuator with
built-in linear resistor; said compressible spring and detent
assembly comprises a means to store potential energy, at least one
rod, a telescoping tube extending parallel to the rod, the
telescoping tube being connected to the rod for simultaneous
movement with the rod, and a latching mechanism for engaging a
plurality of detents disposed on the telescoping tube for retaining
said striking leg member in said cocked position; said means for
supporting a sports ball comprises a sports ball support cup, a
horizontal axis, a vertical axis, a vertical motion linear actuator
with built-in linear resistor, and a horizontal motion linear
actuator with built-in linear resistor for varying a point of
impact against said sports ball to impart a spin and a curving
trajectory to said sports ball; wherein said sports training
apparatus controlling means relays input signals from said sports
training apparatus controlling means and translates them into
output signals causing said plurality of electronic control and
electronic drive systems to perform a desired function; wherein
said sports training apparatus controlling means, said plurality of
electronic control and electronic drive systems are powered by said
power supply means.
[0013] Preferably, the telescoping tube includes an outer tube
member and an inner tube member, the inner tube member being
slidably movable inside the outer tube member, and the inner tube
member being connected to the rod.
[0014] Preferably, the latching mechanism comprises one or more
pulleys and a cable, the cable being connected to a trigger release
bracket which is activated by the rearward motion of the linear
actuator for urging upwardly a sliding latch of the latching
mechanism from the detents on the telescoping tube.
[0015] In accordance to a first aspect of the present invention the
sports training apparatus of the present invention comprises
broadly, a horizontal base-frame having wheels affixed thereto for
movement of the apparatus and a main-frame which is movably mounted
on the base-frame. The main-frame supports a mechanism for
projecting a sports ball, and a sports ball support cup assembly
for supporting a sports ball in operational association with the
mechanism for projecting a sports ball.
[0016] Preferably, the mechanism for projecting a sports ball
comprises an arcuate structure which is adjustable about a pair of
horizontal pivots affixed to a pair of ball projecting mechanism
support members. The mechanism also comprises a lobbing linear
actuator connected to the arcuate structure for adjusting a radial
orientation of the arcuate structure about a common axis of the
horizontal pivots, for changing the orientation of the arcuate
structure for optionally lobbing a sports ball.
[0017] The mechanism for projecting a sports ball further
preferably comprises a striking leg member having a striking path
oriented toward the common axis of both horizontal pivots, and the
common axis is oriented through a sports ball when the sports ball
is being supported by the support cup assembly, such that the
radial orientation of the striking leg member, and the striking
path thereof are adjustable to aim toward a centre of the sports
ball, from various positions of the arcuate structure about the
common axis.
[0018] In accordance to another aspect of the present invention,
the apparatus further preferably comprises a rotating linear
actuator for rotating the main-frame within a horizontal plane
above the base-frame. The ball projecting mechanism is thereby able
to rotate left and right from center approximately 80.degree.
allowing the sports training apparatus to project balls to players
in a wide horizontal area without displacing the sports training
apparatus on the playing surface.
[0019] In accordance to a further aspect of the present invention,
the striking leg member has a first end pivotally connected to the
arcuate structure for pendulous movement of the striking leg member
along a striking path. The ball projecting mechanism further
comprises a compressing linear actuator mounted on the top side at
the rear of the arcuate structure and having a linear motion in the
same plane as the striking leg member. The ball projecting
mechanism further comprises a compressible spring and detent rod
assembly pivotally connected to both the striking leg member and
the bottom side at the rear of the arcuate structure for moving the
leg member along the striking path between a striking position and
a cocked position, upon extension of the compressing linear
actuator. Optionally, the ball projecting mechanism may comprise a
plurality of compressing linear actuators. The compressible spring
and detent rod assembly preferably comprises two springs, two
detent rods and a latching mechanism that engages the detent rods
at a plurality of fixed points ensuring that the springs remain
compressed until the sports ball is launched, each of the fixed
points on the detent rods represent a different power level setting
as a result of the potential energy stored in the springs.
Optionally, the compressible spring and detent rod assembly may
comprise at least one spring and at least one detent rod.
[0020] In the ball projecting mechanism of the present the
invention, it is preferable that the compressible springs of the
compressible spring and detent rod assembly are compressible
bushings. The use of compressible bushings have an advantage in
that they are stackable allowing for the ability to further modify
the force levels of the striking leg member and would eliminate the
need to acquire custom made springs.
[0021] Preferably, the plurality of linear actuators in the present
invention each has a built-in linear resistor. The linear resistors
allow a sports training apparatus controlling means, such as, for
example a microcontroller, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA),
or the like, to monitor and control the movement of the plurality
of linear actuators to within an accuracy of approximately 1/1000
of an inch (25.4 .mu.m).
[0022] In the projecting mechanism of the present invention, the
striking leg member is movable from a striking position to a cocked
position upon extension of the compressing linear actuator and
compression of the spring and detent rod assembly. The leg member
is adapted to be retained in the cocked position by the detent rods
and the latching mechanism.
[0023] In accordance to yet another aspect of the present
invention, preferably there is provided in the apparatus, a
plurality of electronic controls and electric drive systems for
operating the operational functions of the sports training
apparatus. There is also provided a pair of rechargeable batteries
mounted on the main-frame for supplying electrical power to the
plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems. There
is also provided a readout display indicating the level of charge
remaining on the pair of rechargeable batteries.
[0024] In accordance to yet another aspect of the present
invention, preferably there is provided a solar charging system for
charging the rechargeable batteries prolonging the use of the
apparatus in a given practice session. The solar charging system
comprises at least one solar panel and is electrically connected to
the rechargeable batteries allowing for a constant trickle charge
when exposed to external sources of light.
[0025] In the sports training apparatus of the present invention,
preferably there is provided a sports training apparatus
controlling means for controlling the plurality of electronic
control and electronic drive systems and is powered by the
rechargeable batteries.
[0026] In the sports training apparatus of the present invention,
preferably there is provided an external remote control, with
secondary controls on the apparatus, for providing input signals to
the sports training apparatus controlling means to control the
apparatus. The sports training apparatus controlling means relays
input signals from a user via the external remote control or the
secondary controls and translates them into output signals causing
the plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems to
perform the desired function. The external remote control comprises
a joystick for changing the trajectory (direction) of the sports
ball, and a plurality of buttons or control knobs for modifying
various settings or for carrying out various functions, such as,
for example:
[0027] an on/off button for turning the sports training apparatus
on or off;
[0028] an emergency stop button to power down the sports training
apparatus;
[0029] a reset button to cause all the components of the sports
training apparatus to move to an arbitrary rest position;
[0030] a load button for loading a ball on the support cup;\
[0031] a pre-load control function for pre-loading the projecting
mechanism;
[0032] a lob function to add more or less lob to the trajectory of
the ball;
[0033] a spin function to move the support cup laterally to
increase or decrease the spin of a ball;
[0034] a save ball trajectory function;
[0035] a program function to load a saved program;
[0036] a ball launch button to cause the sports training apparatus
to launch a sports ball; and
[0037] a mode of operation function, to operate the sports training
apparatus in for example, a Manual, Automatic or pre-Program
mode.
[0038] The external remote control of the present invention is
preferably a touch-screen remote, wherein the joystick and the
plurality of buttons or control knobs are replaced, for example, by
up/down/left/right touch-screen buttons for changing the trajectory
and touch-screen buttons for modifying the various settings
representing the same as those exemplified above, respectively.
Optionally, the external remote control is wireless.
[0039] The secondary controls located on the sports training
apparatus preferably comprise the same functions as the external
remote control as well as additional functions, such as, for
example:
[0040] an on/off switch for turning the sports training apparatus
on or off; and
[0041] a plurality of emergency stop switches to halt a program in
progress.
[0042] Preferably, in the sports training apparatus controlling
means of the present invention there is stored thereon a plurality
of programs. The programs include, for example, a save ball
trajectory program, a manual mode program, a pre-programmed mode
program, an automatic mode program and a plurality of safety
feature programs.
[0043] In accordance to yet another aspect of the present
invention, preferably there is provided a safety braking system.
The safety braking system is connected to a towing handle, whereby
when the towing handle is in a substantially vertical position
brakes on the rear wheels are engaged, and when the towing handle
is lowered for towing brakes on the rear wheels are disengaged.
[0044] In accordance to yet another aspect of the present
invention, preferably there is provided a spring release safety
mechanism. The spring release safety mechanism is used if the
apparatus fails and the spring loaded arm is in a cocked position,
thus leaving a compressive force on the springs and making it
hazardous to repair. To release the potential energy in the springs
a manual release trigger is provided at the back of the
compressible spring and detent rod assembly that will release the
latch from the detents on the detent rods or on the telescoping
tube, which will then trigger the firing mechanism and release the
potential energy stored in the springs.
[0045] According to another aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a method of launching a sports ball according to the
sports training apparatus for launching sports balls as defined
herein comprising the steps of:
[0046] a) loading the sports ball onto the sports ball support
cup;
[0047] b) positioning the sports ball support cup using the
vertical motion linear actuator with built-in linear resistor and
the horizontal motion linear actuator with built-in linear resistor
to impart a desired spin on the sports ball;
[0048] c) radially positioning the means for projecting a sports
ball to effect a desired arcing path of the sports ball;
[0049] d) extending the compressing linear actuator with built-in
linear resistor to compress and store a potential energy in the
means to store potential energy to strike the sports ball with a
desired force;
[0050] e) retracting the compressing linear actuator with built-in
linear resistor while the striking leg member is kept in the cocked
position by the latching mechanism on one of the plurality of
detents on the at least one detent rod; and
[0051] f) releasing the potential energy stored in the means to
store potential energy causing the striking leg member to strike
the sports ball.
[0052] Various aspects of this invention will become apparent to
those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of
the preferred embodiment, when read in light of the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0053] Embodiments of the present invention will be further
described, by way of example only, with reference to the
accompanying drawings, in which:
[0054] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional perspective view of the sports
training apparatus for launching sports balls of an embodiment of
the present invention;
[0055] FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of the sports training
apparatus for launching sports balls of an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0056] FIGS. 3a and 3b are perspective views of the compressible
spring and detent rod assembly of an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0057] FIG. 4 is a side view of the sports training apparatus for
launching sports ball showing the movement of the members of the
ball projecting mechanism moving into a cocked position;
[0058] FIG. 5a-5c are side views of the ball support cup assembly
of an embodiment of the present invention;
[0059] FIGS. 6a and 6b are perspective views of sports ball storage
ramp of an embodiment of the present invention;
[0060] FIG. 7 is a side view of the control gate for automatically
loading a sports ball on the support cup;
[0061] FIGS. 8a and 8b are a perspective view and a top plan view
respectively of a compressible spring and detent assembly according
to another embodiment of the present invention;
[0062] FIG. 9a is a cross sectional view of the spring and detent
assembly shown in FIG. 8b along line A-A; and
[0063] FIG. 9b is en exploded view of region F shown in FIG.
9a.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0064] A better understanding of the present invention and its
objects and advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the
art from the following detailed description, wherein there is
described only the preferred embodiment of the invention, simply by
way of illustration of the best mode contemplated for carrying out
the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of
modifications in various obvious respects, all without departing
from the scope and spirit of the invention. Accordingly, the
description should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as
restrictive.
[0065] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2. The sports training apparatus 20
comprises a horizontal rectangular base-frame 40 supported by
wheels 30, 32 and a main-frame 42 movably mounted on the base-frame
40 about a vertical axis 44. The main-frame 42 has a pair of
spaced-apart upright front members 60 and a pair spaced-apart
upright rear members 62. The main-frame 42 is supported by a pivot
member 46, such as, for example, a pivoting flange, affixed to the
base-frame 40, and is movable about the vertical axis 44 by means
of a rotating linear actuator 48. The sports training apparatus has
an enclosure 26 for protecting the interior components of the
sports training apparatus 20 from precipitations, dust and the
like, and for safely covering the mechanism when in use.
[0066] The main-frame 42 supports a sports ball storage ramp 64
above the ball projecting mechanism 28, the main-frame 42 also
provides support for the enclosure 26. The enclosure 26 has an
opening 66 in the top surface thereof communicating with an inlet
portion 68 of the storage ramp 64 for loading the storage ramp 64
with a plurality of sports balls.
[0067] A pair of ball projecting mechanism support members 45
supports a ball support cup assembly 70. The ball projecting
mechanism 28 is pivotally mounted between the pair of ball
projecting mechanism support members 45 and is movable about a
transversal horizontal axis 36. The ball projecting mechanism 28
comprises an arcuate structure 80 having its front end connected to
the axis 36 and its rear end connected to a lobbing linear actuator
82. A striking leg member 84 is pivotally connected to the arcuate
structure 80, at pivot 86. The striking leg member 84 is operable
back and forth by way of a compressible spring and detent rod
assembly 88 and a compressing linear actuator 90. The striking leg
member 84 has a boot 98 on its lower end for contacting a sports
ball 38. The boot 98 has concentric grooves on its striking surface
for providing a better grip on the ball. The boot is preferably
made of aluminum, and covered with a coating of urethane.
[0068] FIGS. 3a and 3b show an embodiment of the compressible
spring and detent rod assembly 88. The compressible spring and
detent rod assembly 88 comprises a pair of springs 150, a pair of
detent rods 152 and a latching mechanism 154. The latching of the
striking leg member 84 into the cocked position is effected by
extending the compressing linear actuator 90 such that the
compressing linear actuator 90 pushes the upper portion of the
striking leg member 84 causing the striking leg member to rotate
around axis 86 to compress the compressible spring and detent rod
assembly 88 causing the latching mechanism 154 to progressively
latch onto the detents of detent rods 152 according to the desired
compression of the springs 150. The arrows in FIG. 4 depict the
movement of the members of the ball projecting mechanism 28 moving
into a cocked position.
[0069] Referring now to FIGS. 8a and 8b, shown is another preferred
embodiment of the compressible spring and detent assembly 88,
including a pair of springs 150 and a pair of rods 152. A front
bearing 171 and a rear 172 bearing support the rod 152. The spring
member 150 has a front end 173 adapted to receive a bolt and nut
system 170 for connecting the two front end portions 173 of the
springs 150. A telescoping tube assembly can be disposed in between
the two rods 152, the telescope tube including a fixed outer tube
member 176 and a slidable inner tube member 175, the inner tube
member 175 extending forwardly parallel to the springs 150. The
inner tube member 175 has a front end 174 which is adapted to
receive the bolt 170 for connection to the springs 152 for
simultaneously movement of the inner tube member 175 with the
parallel springs 152.
[0070] FIG. 9a is a cross-sectional view of the compressible spring
and detent assembly 88 shown in FIG. 8b along line A-A. The inner
tube member 175 is illustrated in a retracted or latched position
inside the outer tube member 176 of the telescoping tube
assembly.
[0071] The latching of the striking leg member 84 into a cocked
position is effected by extending the compressing linear actuator
90 such that a front end 178 of the compressing linear actuator 90
pushes the upper portion of the striking leg member 84 causing the
striking leg member to rotate around axis 86 to compress the
compressible spring and detent assembly 88. During the compression
of the spring and detent assembly 88 the rods 150 and the inner
tube member 175 move rearward with the inner tube member 175 being
retracted inside the outer tube member 176 of the telescoping tube
assembly for compressing the springs 152. A latching mechanism
includes a series of recesses or detents disposed, preferably, on
the upper face of the inner tube member 175, which are used in
connection with a sliding latch 177 to progressively retain the
inner tube member 175 and the springs 152 at a desired compressed
position according to the level of elastic energy to be released.
The energy release can be actuated by urging the sliding latch
upwardly from the locking position inside the recess or detent
through a pulley and cable system including a set of pulleys 179
and a cable 180.
[0072] FIG. 9b shows an exploded region F of FIG. 9a further
illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the locking portion of the
sliding latch 177, which includes a bolt 181, a locking sleeve 182,
and a locking sleeve spacer 183. The cable 180 is illustrated
attached to a flange projecting of the sliding latch 177. As the
linear actuator 90 moves rearward it will get to appoint when the
end of the cylinder bracket engages the trigger release bracket
that holds one end of the cable. Continuing to move rearward, the
linear actuator 90 pulls the cable which in turn urges the sliding
latch 177 upwardly in order to disengage the locking portion
thereof from the recess or detent disposed on the inner telescoping
tube 175, and, thus, releasing the elastic energy in the spring 152
and propelling the kicking arm forward to engage the ball for
projection as desired.
[0073] The plurality of linear actuators in the present invention
each has a built-in linear resistor. The linear resistors allow a
microcontroller 106 to monitor and control the movement of the
plurality of linear actuators to within an accuracy of
approximately 1/1000 of an inch (25.4 .mu.m). It will be
appreciated that the length that the compressing linear actuator 90
is extended is directly related to the degree of compression on the
springs of the compressible spring and detent rod assembly 88, and
is directly related to the force with which the ball will be
stricken by the striking leg member 84.
[0074] The microcontroller 106 is preferably mounted on the upright
rear members 62 and above a pair of 12V rechargeable batteries 108
supported on the rear end of the main-frame 42. The rechargeable
batteries 108 supply electrical power to the plurality of
electronic control and electronic drive systems of the sports
training apparatus. The rechargeable batteries 108 are connected in
series to provide a total potential of 24V and in a preferred
embodiment can be re-charged via an external source, such as, for
example, a golf cart charging system.
[0075] The sports training apparatus 20 of a preferred embodiment
further comprises a solar charging system for charging the
rechargeable batteries 108 prolonging the use of the apparatus in a
given practice session. The solar charging system comprises at
least one solar panel affixed to the outside of the enclosure 26
and is electrically connected to the rechargeable batteries 108
allowing for a constant trickle charge when exposed to external
sources of light.
[0076] The lobbing linear actuator 82 is mounted between the
rechargeable batteries 108 and is connected to the rear end of the
arcuate structure 80 for raising and lowering the arcuate structure
80 and for correspondingly lobbing the sports ball 38 with more or
less height.
[0077] Referring now to FIGS. 5a to 5c, there is illustrated
therein the ball support cup 130 for supporting a sports ball 38
within the striking path of the striking leg member 84. The sports
ball 38 is preferably supported on a concave rubber cup 130 which
is affixed to a movable vertical bar 132. The vertical bar is in
turn mounted in a drive block 134 which is movably mounted on a
horizontal bar 136. The horizontal bar 136 is affixed to the
upright front members 60 of the main-frame 42. There are also
provided on the slide block 134, a fourth and fifth linear actuator
(not shown) for engaging with the horizontal bar 136 and the
vertical bar 132 respectively, for moving the slide block 134 and
the support cup 130 relative to the main-frame 42.
[0078] The adjustment of the sports ball 38 in lateral directions
relative to the main-frame 42 is useful for varying the point of
impact of the boot 98 against the sports ball 38, to impart a spin
and a curving trajectory to the ball. The action of the fourth and
fifth linear actuators causes the cup 130 to raise or lower or move
to left or right, to optionally impart a combination of a lob
trajectory and vertical or horizontal spinning motion to the sports
ball being launched by the sports training apparatus 20.
[0079] A sports ball storage ramp 64 and control gate 146 are also
provided for automatically loading a sports ball on the support cup
130. The storage ramp and control gate are separately illustrated
in FIGS. 6a, 6b and 7, respectively. The storage ramp 64 has a
rectangular helix shape and covers a full turn inside the enclosure
26 of the sports training apparatus 20. The control gate 146 is
positioned above the low end of the ramp and is operated by a
solenoid actuator 148 to let one ball at a time fall onto the
support cup 130.
[0080] The operation of the sports training apparatus 20 of a
preferred embodiment is primarily controlled by an external remote
control (not shown), with secondary controls on the apparatus
itself. The external remote control of the apparatus communicates
with the microcontroller 106 by means of an electrical cable having
a substantial length such that the apparatus is controllable from a
distance, in a preferred embodiment the external remote control
communicates with the microcontroller 106 via wireless
connectivity, such as, for example, Bluetooth.TM. or Wi-Fi. The
external remote control comprises a joystick for changing the
trajectory (direction) of the ball, and a plurality of buttons
and/or control knobs for modifying various settings having the
following, but not limited to, designated functions:
[0081] an on/off button for turning the sports training apparatus
20 on or off;
[0082] an emergency stop button to power down the sports training
apparatus 20;
[0083] a reset button to cause all the components of the sports
training apparatus 20 to move to an arbitrary rest position;
[0084] a load button for loading a ball on the support cup 130;
[0085] a pre-load control function for pre-loading the projecting
mechanism 28 to any gradient of a maximum force;
[0086] a lob function to add more or less lob to the trajectory of
the ball;
[0087] a spin function to move the support cup 130 laterally and
increase or decrease the spin of a ball;
[0088] a save ball trajectory function;
[0089] a program button to load a saved program; and
[0090] a ball launch button to cause the sports training apparatus
20 to launch a sports ball 38; and
[0091] a mode of operation function, to operate the sports training
apparatus 20 in for example, a Manual, Automatic or pre-Program
mode.
[0092] The secondary controls located on the sports training
apparatus 20 preferably comprise the same functions as the external
remote control as well as additional functions, such as, for
example:
[0093] an on/off switch for turning the sports training apparatus
20 on or off; and
[0094] a plurality of emergency stop switches to halt a program in
progress.
[0095] The secondary controls of a preferred embodiment include a
readout display indicating the level of charge remaining on the
pair of rechargeable batteries 108.
[0096] The microcontroller 106 is electrically connected to the
plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems used
for controlling the operational functions of the sports training
apparatus 20. The microcontroller 106 relays input signals from a
user via the external remote control or the secondary controls and
translates them into output signals causing the electronic control
and electronic drive systems to perform the desired function.
[0097] The microcontroller 106 of a preferred embodiment has a save
ball trajectory program stored thereon. The save ball trajectory
program causes the microcontroller 106 to store the specific
settings (i.e. power level, direction and spin) of the last sports
ball launch for use at a future time, or to create a pre-programmed
sequence of launches.
[0098] The microcontroller 106 of a preferred embodiment has a
plurality of mode operation programs stored thereon. The plurality
of mode of operation programs include, but are not limited to, a
manual mode, a pre-programmed mode and an automatic mode. The
manual mode program causes the sports training apparatus to perform
the user's inputs in real-time. The pre-programmed mode program
causes the sports training apparatus to perform a sequence of
previously saved ball trajectory launches. The automatic mode
program causes the sports training apparatus to perform a random
sequence of ball trajectory launches.
[0099] The sports training apparatus 20 of a preferred embodiment
has a plurality of safety features causing the system to stop
running as long as at least one of the safety features has been
triggered. The safety features include, but are not limited to:
[0100] emergency stop buttons located on the external remote
control and on the sports training apparatus 20;
[0101] no ball present on the ball support cup 130;
[0102] object present in front the sports training apparatus
20;
[0103] enclosure panel missing switches; and
[0104] low charge detection.
[0105] A first proximity sensor may be provided on a guide bar 144
near the sports ball support cup 130 for determining if a sports
ball is present on the cup 130.
[0106] A second proximity sensor may be provided on the front of
the sports training apparatus enclosure 26 for determining if an
object is present within a pre-determined distance in front of the
apparatus.
[0107] Activation switches may be provided on the base-frame 40 and
main-frame 42 for determining if the enclosure panels of the
enclosure 26 are properly installed.
[0108] The sports training apparatus 20 of a preferred embodiment
further comprises a towing handle; it will allow the user to either
pull the apparatus by hand or tow the apparatus with a vehicle,
such as, a golf cart or an all-terrain-vehicle (ATV). When in a
stationary position a spring mechanism will ensure that the towing
handle is in a substantially vertical position and when in the
substantially vertical position the towing handle will engage a
braking system on the rear wheels 32. When the towing handle is
lowered for towing the apparatus the braking system will disengage;
thus allowing the apparatus to move freely.
[0109] The sports training apparatus 20 of a preferred embodiment
further comprises a compressible spring and detent rod assembly
safety release mechanism. During operation the apparatus is able to
launch a sports balls via the ball projecting mechanism 28, if the
apparatus fails, for example, due to a low charge detection or
jamming of the ball projecting mechanism 28, the spring loaded
striking leg member 84 is in a cocked position, thus leaving a
compressive force on the springs and making it hazardous to repair.
To release the potential energy in the springs a manual release
trigger 156 is provided at the back of the compressible spring and
detent rod assembly that will release the latch from the detents on
the detent rods or on the telescoping tube, which will then trigger
the ball projecting mechanism 28 and release the potential energy
stored in the springs.
[0110] Microcontrollers and FPGAs are commonly known in the art,
and are not specific to the present invention. Thus, it will be
known to one skilled in the art how to integrate and operate such a
device together with the sports training apparatus described 20
herein.
[0111] Proximity sensors and activation switches are commonly known
in the art, and are not specific to the present invention. Thus, it
will be known to one skilled in the art how to integrate and
operate such devices together with the microcontroller 106 and the
sports training apparatus 20 described herein.
[0112] Wireless connectivity is commonly known in the art, and is
not specific to the present invention. Thus, it will be known to
one skilled in the art how to integrate and operate such a device
together with the microcontroller 106 and external remote control
described herein.
[0113] While the above description provides a full and complete
disclosure of a preferred embodiment of this invention, various
modifications, alternate constructions and equivalents may be
employed without departing from the true spirit and scope of the
invention. Such changes might involve alternate materials,
components, structural arrangements, sizes, operational features or
the like. Therefore, the above description and accompanying
illustrations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the
invention which is defined in the appended claims.
* * * * *