U.S. patent application number 13/745002 was filed with the patent office on 2013-08-01 for systems and methods for controlling baseball bat swing.
The applicant listed for this patent is Kristopher A. Johnson. Invention is credited to Kristopher A. Johnson.
Application Number | 20130196796 13/745002 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48870702 |
Filed Date | 2013-08-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130196796 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Johnson; Kristopher A. |
August 1, 2013 |
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING BASEBALL BAT SWING
Abstract
Systems and methods for controlling a baseball bat swing are
disclosed. A system in accordance with a particular embodiment
includes an upper arm portion, a lower arm portion, a light source,
and a pinch gear. The upper arm portion can be pivotably connected
to the lower arm portion and a pinch gear can adjust an angle
between the upper arm portion and the lower arm portion. A mounting
device can releasably secure the upper arm portion to a user's arm.
The system can be employed to train the user to achieve a
consistent baseball bat swing.
Inventors: |
Johnson; Kristopher A.;
(Seattle, WA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Johnson; Kristopher A. |
Seattle |
WA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
48870702 |
Appl. No.: |
13/745002 |
Filed: |
January 18, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61589208 |
Jan 20, 2012 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
473/458 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2071/0625 20130101;
A63B 69/0002 20130101; A63B 2225/74 20200801; G09B 19/0038
20130101; A63B 69/0059 20130101; A63B 24/0003 20130101; A63B
2069/0008 20130101; A63B 71/0622 20130101; A63B 2225/09
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/458 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/00 20060101
A63B069/00 |
Claims
1. A system for controlling a user's baseball bat swing,
comprising: an arm-mounted device having an upper arm portion, a
lower arm portion, a light source, and a pinch gear, the upper arm
portion pivotably connected to the lower arm portion, the pinch
gear positioned to adjust an angle between the upper arm portion
and the lower arm portion, and the light source positioned to emit
a light beam; and a mounting device having a sleeve, a patch and a
strap, the patch and the strap positioned to secure the arm mounted
device to the user's arm.
2. An arm-mounted device for controlling a user's baseball bat
swing, the device comprising: an upper arm portion; and a lower arm
portion pivotably connected to the upper arm portion; an adjustable
element operatively coupled to the upper arm portion and the lower
arm portion, the adjustable element having a pinch gear to control
an angle between the upper arm portion and the lower arm portion;
and a light source carried by the arm-mounted device, the light
source having a rotatable cover and an aperture, the rotatable
cover and the aperture adjustable relative to the arm-mounted
device.
3. A system for controlling a user's baseball bat swing, the system
comprising: an arm-mounted device having an upper arm portion, a
lower arm portion, and a light source, the upper arm portion and
the lower arm portion pivotally connected by a hinge having a pinch
gear; and a stowable pad positionable relative to the arm-mounted
device to receive light from the light source, the stowable pad
having: a home plate indicator; a foot location indicator that is
movable relative to the home plate indicator; a swing line
indicator; a set indicator that is movable along the swing line
indicator; a load indicator that is movable along the swing line
indicator; a throw indicator that is movable along the swing line
indicator; a plurality of array elements positioned to receive
light from the light source; and an audio device positioned to emit
sound in response to the receipt of light by at least one
individual array element.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Application 61/589,208 filed Jan. 20, 2012, and incorporated herein
by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure is directed generally to systems and
methods for controlling the bat swing of a baseball player.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Baseball players, professional and amateur, wish to execute
a strong bat swing in a consistent manner. Several aspects of the
embodiments disclosed herein can facilitate these aspects of the
player's performance.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a device worn by a
batter in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0005] FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate further embodiments of devices
having different widths in accordance with additional embodiments
of the disclosure.
[0006] FIG. 3 is a partially schematic, isometric illustration of a
device configured in accordance with still a further embodiment of
the disclosure.
[0007] FIG. 4 is a partially schematic, isometric illustration of a
device having a stop engaged by the batter's arm in accordance with
an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0008] FIG. 5 is a partially schematic, isometric illustration of a
device that may be attached to a batter's forearm and upper arm in
accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure.
[0009] FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of a device configured to
restrain a batter's arm motion relative to the batter's body in
accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure.
[0010] FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration illustrating further
aspects of an embodiment of the device shown in FIG. 6.
[0011] FIG. 8 is a partially schematic, isometric illustration of a
system that includes an arm-mounted device and a light source
configured in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 9 is a schematic, isometric illustration of a portion
of the system shown in FIG. 8, further illustrating a pad
configured in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 10A is a partially schematic, isometric illustration of
an embodiment of the pad shown in FIG. 9.
[0014] FIG. 10B is a partially schematic illustration of an array
element suitable for use with an embodiment of the pad shown in
FIG. 10A.
[0015] FIG. 10C is a schematic illustration of an array element and
an audio device configured in accordance with an embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 11 illustrates representative light paths that may be
indicated during use of a pad in accordance with an embodiment of
the disclosure.
[0017] FIG. 12 is an isometric illustration of an arm-mounted
device configured in accordance with an embodiment of the
disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 13 is a partially exploded isometric view of the
arm-mounted device of FIG. 12.
[0019] FIGS. 14A and 14B are isometric illustrations of a mounting
device configured in accordance with an embodiment of the
disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 15 is an isometric illustration of an arm-mounted
device secured with a mounting device configured in accordance with
yet another embodiment of the disclosure.
[0021] FIGS. 16A and 16B are front and rear isometric
illustrations, respectively, of an arm-mounted device configured in
accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure.
[0022] FIGS. 17A and 17B are side views of an arm-mounted device
configured in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0023] FIGS. 18A and 18B are photographs of an arm-mounted device,
a light source and a mounting strap configured in accordance with
another embodiment of the disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 19 is an isometric illustration of an arm-mounted
device configured in accordance with another embodiment of the
disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to fixed or
adjustable, proprioceptive training devices that can facilitate a
player's development of a repeatable, accurate and/or quick
baseball bat swing.
[0026] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a device 100 (e.g., an
arm-mounted device) configured in accordance with an embodiment of
the disclosure. The device 100 is viewed from above and is worn by
a user whose arm (in FIG. 1) is bent in a generally horizontal
plane. In one aspect of this embodiment, the device 100 includes an
upper arm portion 101 that is attached to the user's upper arm 150
with an attachment device 121 which, in a particular embodiment,
includes one or more releasable straps 109. The device 100 can
further include a lower arm portion 102 that is not attached to the
user's forearm 151, but which acts as a proprioceptive surface
against which the user can rest the forearm 151 when preparing to
take a swing with a baseball bat. Accordingly, during the course of
the swing, the user's forearm 151 can open and move away from the
lower arm portion 102.
[0027] The device 100 can further include an intermediate portion
103 positioned between the upper arm portion 101 and the lower arm
portion 102. In a particular embodiment, the intermediate portion
103 can set the included angle A between the upper arm portion 101
and the lower arm portion 102. In an embodiment shown in FIG. 1,
the intermediate portion 103 can be adjustable, allowing the user
to selectively adjust the included angle A to a desired value.
Accordingly, the intermediate portion 103 can include an adjustment
element 130 that the user can manipulate to select a desired
included angle A. In one embodiment, the adjustment element 130
includes a first element 104 attached to the lower arm portion 102,
and a second element 105 attached to the upper arm portion 101. The
first and second elements 104, 105 can be movable relative to each
other about a pivot axis or hinge 110, allowing the user to change
the included angle A. In a particular embodiment, the first element
104 can include a post 107 that slides in a circumferential slot
106 carried by the second element 105. The adjustment element 130
can further include a locking knob 108 that allows the user to lock
the motion of the first element 104 relative to the second element
105 at a selected angle. The adjustment element 130 can include a
scale 111 that identifies angular values. In this manner, the user
can try several different values of the included angle A, track
batting performance at each angle, and when a desirable or optimal
angle is obtained, consistently configure the device 100 at that
angle. In one embodiment, the device 100 can accommodate included
angles A having a value of from about 70.degree. to about
150.degree.. In a further particular embodiment, included angle A
can be varied over a range of from about 90.degree. to about
135.degree., and in a further particular embodiment, the range for
the included angle A can be from about 90.degree. to about
110.degree.. In still further embodiments described later, the
device 100 can have a fixed included angle A, set at a particular
value in the foregoing ranges.
[0028] In a representative method of use, a right-handed batter
attaches the device 100 to the left bicep or upper arm 150.
Left-handed batters attach the device 100 to the right arm. The
batter chooses a desired included angle A, e.g., in the range of
about 90.degree.-135.degree.. The batter moves to a load position,
maintaining contact between the forearm 151 and the lower arm
portion 102 of the device 100. The load in a baseball swing is the
movement (generally away from the pitcher) which puts the batter
into the correct or ideal launch position, e.g., the point from
which to start the forward swing. The load involves a stretching or
tensing of muscles, preparing them to move the bat forward quickly.
The device 100 can train the batter to develop a reproducible load
so that they swing from the same point for each swing. In many
cases, a reproducible load position is important in order to
deliver the bat to the hitting zone in a direct line (as opposed
to, e.g., dropping the bat and delivering a "roundhouse" or "drag"
swing). In addition, the timing with which the batter delivers the
bat improves when the batter starts from the same point on
successive swings.
[0029] When the forearm 151 is in contact with the lower arm
portion 102, the backward movement of the forearm 151 stops because
of light tension in the left tricep. The left elbow is kept in
close proximity to the torso. This can improve the batter's ability
to obtain the correct bat angle. As seen from the pitcher's view of
the batter, the correct bat angle is generally obtained when the
plane containing the barrel of bat passes through the batter's
ear.
[0030] The device 100 can help create an improved or optimal "slot"
in which to start the swing in a manner that keeps the batter's
hands inside the baseball. In addition, embodiments of the device
100 can make this move simple to teach, as all the batter has to do
is to move his or her left elbow back toward the pitcher.
[0031] The ability to stop the load in the desired (e.g., optimal)
position, as well as start the swing in the slot or with an inside
move is often very difficult to teach. Embodiments of the device
100 can develop this move in a matter of minutes. This can greatly
improve the performance of batters who otherwise never develop this
move and for whom the game becomes too fast and difficult.
[0032] Bat swing timing is typically very important, as the bat
needs to be delivered to the hitting zone at the precise time that
the ball is in the zone. A common mistake is that the unaided
batter sets the angle between the upper arm and the forearm to be
too obtuse. The batter then develops a swing in which the bat is
dragged in an indirect path through the hitting zone. This results
in a slow, less efficient swing. Embodiments of the device 100 can
improve the batter's swing. For example, most baseball players
start their swing with a move of their arms and hands generally
away from the pitcher into their "load" position. This move
produces a tensing or stretching of the muscles which start the
swing via the left bicep/core muscles, legs, etc. With the aid of
the device 100, the player can be trained to consistently place his
or her body in the same position and at the same launch point for
each swing, a feature that embodiments of the present disclosure
can facilitate.
[0033] From this position the player can move the bat in a direct
line to the hitting zone. The device 100 can accordingly create a
reproducible point in space from which to start the swing. The
correct launch point is often difficult to develop and reproduce,
particularly in the young player, but also in accomplished players.
Embodiments of the device 100 described above can train the player
to consistently start the swing at the same launch point. Other
embodiments that can obtain the same and/or further benefits are
described below.
[0034] FIG. 2A is a schematic, isometric illustration of a device
200a configured in accordance with another embodiment of the
disclosure. The device 200a can include an upper arm portion 201a
attached to the batter's arm with straps 209 or another attachment
device, a lower arm portion 202a, and an intermediate portion 203a.
In an embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, the portions 201a, 202a, 203a
can be fixed relative to each other. In another embodiment, the
device 200a can include a hinge 210 that allows the upper arm
portion 201a to move relative to the lower arm portion 202a.
Accordingly, in such an embodiment, the intermediate portion 203a
can have features (e.g., similar to those described above with
reference to FIG. 1) that facilitate movement of the upper arm
portion 201 and the lower arm portion 202a relative to each other.
In one aspect of an embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, the overall width
W of the device 200a can be relatively broad, to provide a
significant amount of surface contact between the device 200a and
the batter's arms. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 2B, a device
200b can include narrower upper arm portion 201b, a narrower lower
arm portion 202b, and a narrower intermediate portion 203b.
Accordingly, the overall width W of the device 200b shown in
[0035] FIG. 2B can be relatively small. The particular width of a
device selected by a batter can depend upon the batter's size and
physiology. For example, in some cases, female batters may prefer
the narrower device 200b shown in FIG. 2B to avoid contact between
the device and the batter's breast. This feature may also be
associated with embodiments described later with reference to FIGS.
4 and 5.
[0036] FIG. 3 is a partially schematic, isometric illustration of a
device 300 that has an upper arm portion 301 with straps 309, a
lower arm portion 302, and no intermediate portion. Instead, the
device 300 can include a hinge 310 that has a sufficient internal
resistance to remain in a selected position, once the batter
selects a desired included angle A. In a particular embodiment, the
hinge 310 can include an arrangement of detents that allow the
batter to move the upper arm portion 301 and the lower arm portion
302 relative to each other, but that also restrict accidental
movement once the batter has selected a desired position. In a
particular embodiment, the detents can be closely spaced and can
allow the batter to select the included angle A in increments of
about 2.degree.. In other embodiments, this increment can have
other values. In any of these embodiments, the resistance provided
by the hinge 310 is great enough to prevent the batter from
inadvertently changing the included angle A when positioning his or
her arms in the load position. At the same time, the hinge 310 can
allow the user to deliberately change the included angle when
desired.
[0037] As shown in FIG. 3, the upper arm portion 301 and the lower
arm portion 302 can each have a thickness or thickness extent T and
a width or lateral extent W that is larger than the thickness
extent T. The hinge 310 can allow the upper and lower arm portions
301, 302 to pivot relative to each other about a pivot axis 322
that is generally parallel with the lateral extent or width W of
the upper arm portion 301 and/or the lower arm portion 302. In
other embodiments, the pivot axis can have the opposite
orientation, as will be described further with reference to FIG.
4.
[0038] In several of the embodiments described above, the device is
placed in the crook of the batter's arm, directly opposite the
elbow. In other embodiments, the device can be placed on top of the
batter's arm and/or below the batter's arm. For example, in an
embodiment shown in FIG. 4, a device 400 can include an upper arm
portion 401 that is attached to the upper surface of the batter's
upper arm 150 with straps 409. The device 400 can further include a
lower arm portion 402 that rests on the upper surface of the
batter's forearm 151. The batter can selectively adjust the
included angle A using a hinge 410 that operates in a manner
generally similar to that described above with reference to FIG. 3.
The lower arm portion 402 can include a stop 412 against which the
batter presses the forearm 151 when in the load position. As the
batter swings, the forearm 151 can swing outwardly away from the
stop 412.
[0039] As shown in FIG. 4, the upper arm portion 401 and the lower
arm portion 402 can each have a lateral extent or width W that is
greater than a corresponding thickness extent T. The hinge 410 can
allow the upper arm portion 401 and the lower arm portion 402 to
pivot relative to each other about a pivot axis 422 that is
generally parallel to the thickness extent T, rather than the
lateral extent W. This arrangement differs from the arrangement
described above with reference to FIG. 3 and results from the
placement of the device on top of the batter's arm or below the
batter's arm, rather than in the crook of the batter's arm.
[0040] FIG. 5 is a partially schematic, isometric illustration of a
device 500 having an upper arm portion 501 that is releasably
attached to the batter's upper arm 150 with straps 509, and a lower
arm portion 502 that is releasably attached to the batter's forearm
151 with additional straps 509. The device 500 can further include
a hinge 510 that allows the user to selectively adjust the included
angle A. In addition, the hinge 510 can include an adjustable
internal stop that prevents the included angle A from being less
than a selected value (e.g., a value in the range of from about
70.degree. to about 150.degree.). However, the hinge 510 can allow
the lower arm portion 502 to move freely relative to the upper arm
portion 501 in the opposite, outward direction, as indicated by
arrow B. Accordingly, the batter can select a desired included
angle A, move the forearm 151 toward the upper arm 150 until the
hinge 510 prevents further inward movement, and then freely move
the forearm 151 as the batter swings the bat.
[0041] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the components of the
device can be selected to provide sufficient rigidity, while still
facilitating for the batter's comfort. For example, the device can
be made from suitable plastics, metals, woods, and/or other
materials. These materials can be selected to be strong enough so
as not to be crushed during normal use. In particular embodiments,
portions of the device (e.g., the upper arm portion and/or the
lower arm portion) can include padding to provide for the batter's
comfort. The padding can be compliant enough to feel comfortable
against the batter's skin, but not so compliant as to interfere
with the batter's ability to consistently place his or her arm at
the proper included angle A.
[0042] Devices in accordance with other embodiments of the present
disclosure can control other aspects of the batter's swing, in
addition to or in lieu of the aspects described above. For example,
a device 600 shown in FIG. 6 can be configured to train the batter
to have a "tight" or "closed" swing, in which the batter's elbow
remains close to the batter's torso through much of the swing. In a
particular aspect of this embodiment, the device 600 can include a
belt 613 worn around the batter's torso, a strap 609 worn on the
batter's forearm 151, and a motion restrictor 616 connected between
the strap 609 and the belt 613. In a particular embodiment, the
belt 613 can include a slot 606 that receives a portion of the
motion restrictor 616 to both guide and constrain the motion of the
batter's arm relative to the batter's torso. In a particular
embodiment, the slot 606 can include a constraining portion 614
that restricts the motion of the batter's arm during an initial
part of the swing, and a release portion 615 that allows the
batter's arm to move further away from the torso toward the end of
the swing.
[0043] In a particular example shown in FIG. 7, the motion
restrictor 616 can include an inelastic portion (e.g., an inelastic
line 617) and an elastic portion (e.g., an elastic line 619). A
ball 618 or other captured device is located between the inelastic
line 617 and the elastic line 619. The position of the ball 618 can
be adjusted along the inelastic line 617, as indicated by arrow L.
The inelastic line 617 can be attached to the strap 609, also in an
adjustable manner, as indicated by arrow L. The opposite end of the
motion restrictor 616 includes an attachment device 620 that is
attached to the interior of the slot 606 shown in FIG. 6.
[0044] During use, the batter stows the elastic line 619 in the
slot 606, and slides the ball 618 into the slot 606 at the release
portion 615. When the batter assumes the load position, the ball
618 travels upwardly and to the left in the slot 606. As the batter
swings, the ball 618 rides in the slot 606, and the inelastic line
617 keeps the batter from moving his or her elbow by more than a
preset distance away from the torso. In a particular embodiment,
the present distance (established by the position of the ball 618
along the line 617) can be about four inches, but this value can be
adjusted depending on the size and/or other characteristics of the
batter. As the batter completes the swing, the ball 618 reaches the
release portion 615 of the slot 606, and exits the slot 606,
allowing the batter to open up and move his or her arm away from
the torso. At the same time, the presence of the elastic line 619
attached to the interior of the slot 606 can prevent the ball 618
from swinging about in an uncontrolled manner and interfering with
the batter. In a particular embodiment, the ball 618 and the slot
606 can be constructed from metal or metalized components to reduce
sliding friction as these components move relative to each other.
In other embodiments, these components can be manufactured from
other materials.
[0045] FIGS. 8-19 illustrate systems in accordance with several
embodiments of the disclosure that include both an arm-mounted
device to control the player's load position, and a tracking device
to track the player's swing. FIG. 8 is a partially schematic,
isometric illustration of a system 890 that includes an arm-mounted
device 800 and a light source 840. The arm-mounted device 800 can
include features generally similar to those of any of the foregoing
embodiments described above with reference to FIGS. 1-5. In a
particular embodiment, the arm-mounted device 800 includes an upper
arm portion 801 attached to the user's upper arm 150 with an
attachment device 821. In a particular embodiment, the attachment
device 821 includes multiple straps 809. In other embodiments, the
attachment device 821 can include other arrangements. The upper arm
portion 801 can be pivotably connected to a lower arm portion 802
at a hinge 810. The arm-mounted device 800 can further include an
adjustment element 830 operatively coupled to the upper arm portion
801 and the lower arm portion 802 to allow the user to change or
adjust the included angle A between the upper arm portion 801 and
the lower arm portion 802. In a particular embodiment, the
adjustment element 830 can include a post 807 depending from a
first element 804 and received in a slot 806 positioned in a
overlapping second element 805. The adjustment element 830 can
further include a knob 808 that is threadably or otherwise engaged
with the post 807 to secure the first and second elements 804, 805
relative to each other in a selected position corresponding to a
desired included angle A.
[0046] The system 890 can further include a light source 840 that
is carried by the arm-mounted device 800. In a particular
embodiment, the light source 840 can include a laser or other
focused light source that emits a light beam 841 along a light
emission axis 842. The light source 840 can be attached to the
arm-mounted device 800 at a joint 843. In one embodiment, the joint
843 can be fixed and in another embodiment, the joint 843 can be
adjustable. For example, the joint 843 can include a ball and
socket arrangement that allows the light source 840 to be pivoted
about two perpendicular axes (as indicated by arrows R1 and R2)
relative to the arm-mounted device 800, thus allowing the user to
select a particular orientation of the light emission axis 842
relative to the arm-mounted device. The light source 840 can be
positioned at the outside of the user's arm, as shown in FIG. 8, or
at other locations (e.g., the inside of the user's arm) in other
embodiments. The light source 840 can include a battery or other
suitable power supply.
[0047] FIG. 9 illustrates a further embodiment of the system 890 in
which a user 853 holding a bat 860 stands on or adjacent to a pad
870 while using the arm-mounted device 800 and the light source
840. The pad 870 can include a home plate indicator 874, a set
indicator 879, a load indicator 872 and a throw indicator 873. The
pad 870 can further include a swing line indicator 871 extending
away from the home plate indicator 874 (e.g., toward a virtual
pitcher's mound). The set indicator 879 corresponds to the position
of the user's arms when in a set position prior to moving to the
load position. The load indicator 872 corresponds to the position
of the user's arms when in the load position, and the throw
indicator 873 corresponds to the position of the user's arms when
the user has completed the majority of the rotation of his body and
begins to push the arms away from the body.
[0048] In a particular embodiment, the pad 870 can be very simple
and can include an unrolled sheet of paper upon which the user 853
or an assistant marks the home plate indicator 874, the set
indicator 879, the load indicator 872, the throw indicator 873, and
the swing line indicator 871. In another embodiment, the pad 870
can have a more sophisticated arrangement and can include a mat
that may be repeatedly rolled and unrolled between a stowed
configuration and a deployed configuration. For example, the pad
870 can include a pliable plastic material that can be rolled and
unrolled over and over again. In other embodiments, the pad 870 can
include other materials. In any of these embodiments, the pad 870
can include a permanent home plate indicator 874 and swing line
indicator 871. The pad 870 can further include a set indicator 879,
a load indicator 872 and a throw indicator 873 that (in at least
some embodiments) are adjustable to facilitate use with players of
different sizes, as will be discussed in greater detail below with
reference to FIG. 10A.
[0049] In use, the player or other user 853 can position the arms
in the set position, with the user's upper arm 150 and lower or
forearm 151 both contacting the arm-mounted device 800 in the
manner described above with reference to FIG. 1. The user 853 or an
assistant can adjust the orientation of the light source 840 and/or
the set indicator 879 so that the light emission axis 842
intersects the set indicator 879 when the user's arms are in the
set position. The location of the load indicator 872 and the throw
indicator 873 can also be adjusted to coincide with the light
emission axis 842 at the desired point. The user 853 then moves his
arms from the set position to the load position which shifts the
light emission axis 842 from the set indicator 879 to the load
indicator 872. The user 853 then rotates his body to swing the bat
860 from the load position to the throw position and the light
emission axis 842 tracks along the pad 870 from the load indicator
872 to the throw indicator 873. The user 853 or an assistant can
simultaneously watch the impingement of the light beam 841 as it
tracks along the pad 870 and observe any deviations from the swing
line indicator 871 and/or from the load indicator 872 and the throw
indicator 873. The user 853 can then adjust the swing so that the
path of the light beam 841 aligns with (e.g., overlays) the swing
line indicator 871 and/or the load indicator 872 and the throw
indicator 873. In a particular embodiment, the user 853 can conduct
this exercise slowly at first to obtain the proper alignment, and
then more quickly to emulate an actual bat swing. The user 853 can
repeat this motion over and over again until it becomes more
natural (e.g., second nature). For example, the user 853 can swing
the bat 860 in this manner for a minimum of 20 times in a row,
without adjusting either the arm-mounted device 800 or the light
source 840, once the proper orientation of these devices has been
selected. In another embodiment, the user 853 can swing the bat 860
up to or over 100 times in a row during a given session without
adjusting the arm-mounted device 800 or the light source 840 to
facilitate the proper swing becoming second nature (e.g., to
facilitate developing the proper muscle memory).
[0050] FIG. 10A is partially schematic, plan view of the pad 870,
illustrating further features associated with particular
embodiments of the overall system 890. For example, in one
embodiment, the swing line indicator 871 can include a slot, and
the set indicator 879, the load indicator 872 and the throw
indicator 873 can each be movable along the slot relative to the
home plate indicator 874, as indicated by arrows I. The pad 870 can
also include two foot location indicators 875, illustrated as a
first foot location indicator 875a and a second foot location
indicator 875b. The foot location indicators 875 can be adjusted to
accommodate players of different statures. For example, each of the
foot location indicators 875 can include a pin 876 that is movable
in an axial adjustment slot 877a along a longitudinal axis A1. Each
of the foot location indicators 875 can further include a lateral
adjustment slot 877b that allows the foot location indicators 875
to move laterally back and forth along a corresponding lateral axis
A2. In other embodiments, the foot location indicators 875 can be
adjustable in other manners. In still further embodiments, the
system 890 can include an additional foot location indicator 875,
e.g., a foot location indicator forward of the two shown in FIG.
10A to aid the player in placing the forward foot during the stride
portion of a swing. In any of these embodiments, the user can
position the foot location indicators 875 relative to the home
plate indicator 874 prior to engaging in a bat swing exercise.
[0051] The foot location indicators 875, the set indicator 879, the
load indicator 872 and the throw indicator 873 can each be adjusted
to a position that is determined to be correct for a particular
user. For example, a coach or instructor can observe a user and
ensure that each indicator is adjusted to the correct position for
the user. The user can subsequently practice his swing, and the
previously adjusted indicators can verify correct positioning at
each point of the swing for the particular user. Repetitive
practice with the adjusted indicators can improve the repeatability
of a swing for the user and develop a consistent and fundamentally
correct swing.
[0052] In a particular embodiment, it may be desirable to obtain a
semi-permanent or permanent record of the user's swing. For
example, the user may wish to use the system 890 without looking
downwardly at the pad 870 to track the path of the light beam 841
(FIG. 9) on the pad 870. In another embodiment, the user's swing
may be so quick that it is difficult to compare the path of the
light beam 841 to the swing line indicator 871. Accordingly, in a
particular embodiment, the pad 870 can include a detector/indicator
array 880 or other device that detects the passage of the light
beam 841 during the user's bat swing, and indicates the passage of
the light beam 841 in a semi-permanent or permanent manner that
allows the user to review the path of the swing after the swing has
been completed. In a particular embodiment, the detector/indicator
array 880 can include an array of array elements 884 that are
coupled to a power source 886 (e.g., a battery or wall power) to
provide a detection and indication function. A particular array
element 884 is shown schematically in FIG. 10B, and can include a
light detector 881 and a light indicator 883. In a particular
embodiment, the light detector 881 and the light indicator 883 are
discrete elements that are coupled to each other, and in another
embodiment, the light detector 881 and the light indicator 883 form
part of a unitary device. In either embodiment, the light detector
881 receives the incoming light beam 841, and in response to
receiving the light beam 841, switches from an off state to an on
state. For example, the light detector 881 can include a suitable
photo detector diode, or other suitable device. In response to
achieving the on state, the light detector 881 can transmit a
signal along a signal path 882 to the light indicator 883. In
response, the light indicator 883 can change from a first state to
a second state and in the second state, can present an indication
to the user. In a particular embodiment, the indication can include
a visual indication. For example, the light indicator 883 can
include an LED that illuminates when activated by the corresponding
light detector 881. In other embodiments, the light indicator 883
can include other devices. In any of the these embodiments, the
detector/indicator array 880 can provide more than an ephemeral
indication of the path of the user's swing, and the user can
observe this track after completing the swing and adjust his or her
swing accordingly. Once the user has completed the swing and
observed the corresponding indication the user can activate a reset
device 885 (FIG. 10A) to reset the light indicators 883 before
taking another swing.
[0053] In one embodiment, aural indications can alert the user to
receipt of the light beam 841 by one or more of the array elements
884. FIG. 10C is a schematic illustration of a particular array
element 884 electrically connected to an audio device 887 by a
signal path 889. The audio device 887 can include a sound producing
device or speaker 892. Upon receiving the light beam 841, the light
detector 881 can switch from an off state to an on state and
transmit a signal along the signal path 889 to the audio device
887. The audio device 887 can emit an audible indication or tone to
alert the user that the array element 884 has received the light
beam 841. In some embodiments, only one array element is
electrically connected to the audio device 887. For example, a
particular array element 884 that is electrically connected to the
audio device 887 can be positioned at the load indicator 872 (FIG.
10A). In other embodiments, multiple array elements 884 can be
electrically connected to the audio device 887. For example, array
elements 884 at the set indicator 879, the load indicator 872, the
throw indicator 873, and/or other locations on the pad 870 can be
electrically connected to the audio device 887.
[0054] The audio device 887 can provide unique tones or sounds for
individual array elements 884. For example, in one embodiment, the
audio device 887 can provide a first tone for an array element 884
at the set indicator 879, a second tone for an array element 884 at
the load indicator 872 and a third tone for an array element 884 at
the throw indicator 873. In other embodiments, array elements along
a preferred swing path can be electrically connected to the audio
device 887 and audible signals can indicate the path of the user's
swing. In another embodiment, all of the array elements 884 can be
electrically connected to the audio device 887, and a preferred
swing path can be indicated by particular sounds or tones.
Accordingly, the system 890 can provide various indications about a
user's swing without requiring the user to observe the pad 870.
[0055] FIG. 11 is a partially schematic, plan view illustrating a
portion of the pad 870 along with representative light paths 845
(shown as a first light path 845a, a second light path 845b, and a
third light path 845c). For purposes of simplicity, certain details
of the pad 870 shown in FIG. 10A (e.g., the array 880) are not
shown in FIG. 11. When the user activates the system 890 and steps
to the home plate indicator 874 with the light source 840 (FIG. 9)
activated, the light source 840 can form a first light impingement
point 844a on the pad 870. The user can adjust the orientation of
the light source 840 to align the light impingement point with the
load indicator 872, as indicated by arrow L and a second light
impingement point 844b. The user can then swing the bat, as
described above with reference to FIG. 9. In a particular
embodiment, the swing produces a first light path 845a that does
not track the swing line indicator 871. Accordingly, the user can
adjust his or her swing until the light path follows the swing line
indicator 871, as indicated by the second light path 845b. The user
can then execute multiple swings, resetting the device between each
swing, at least until the user can consistently follow the swing
line indicator 871.
[0056] In other embodiments, the user may use the system 890 to
improve or perfect swings that may not necessarily follow the swing
line indicator 871. For example, if the user wishes to specifically
train on inside pitches, the user can deliberately produce the
third light path 845c corresponding to a swing line that will
connect with an inside pitch. The user can employ a similar
technique to perfect swings for outside pitches or other types of
pitches. In still further embodiments, the user can position the
light source 840 to form a light path that does not lie directly on
the swing line indicator 871. For example, the user can position
the light source 840 so that the light path lies parallel to the
swing line indicator 871 rather than overlying the swing line
indicator 871. In still further embodiments, the user's optimum
swing (or other desired swing) may not be along or parallel to the
swing line indicator 871. In such instances, the user may establish
his or her own swing line indicator to suit the idiosyncrasies of
the user's swing. The user can also use embodiments of the system
890 to document and save a particular (e.g., a particularly
effective) swing. For example, if a batter has just completed a
number of successful at-bats, and is "in the groove," he or she can
use the same swing while tracking the swing with the system 890 to
light up the associated light path. The system 890 can include a
memory that permanently records the light track, and the user can
later call up the light track on demand. The user can then match
the desired swing by taking a few practice swings with the desired
light track illuminated or otherwise indicated, while the system
displays a new light track with each swing so the player can tailor
his/her swing to the selected swing. In a particular embodiment,
the player can follow this routine before every at-bat until the
desired swing comes naturally.
[0057] FIG. 12 is an isometric illustration of an arm-mounted
device 1200 configured in accordance with an embodiment of the
present technology. The arm-mounted device 1200 can include
features generally similar to those of any of the foregoing
embodiments described above. In the illustrated embodiment, the
arm-mounted device 1200 includes an upper arm portion 1201 having a
light source 1240. A hinge 1210 can pivotably connect the upper arm
portion 1201 to a lower arm portion 1202. The hinge 1210 can
include an adjustable element 1230 to allow the user to change or
adjust an angle A between the upper arm portion 1201 and the lower
arm portion 1202, as will be described further below. The
arm-mounted device 1200 can include angle markers 1232 to indicate
a numerical value of the angle A. Although the angle markers 1232
of the illustrated embodiment include a series of numerical values
indicating the measurement of the angle A (in degrees), other
embodiments can include other annotations, e.g., symbols or other
alphanumeric characters that represent the angle A.
[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the light source 1240
includes a rotatable cover 1242 having an aperture 1244. A laser, a
light-emitting diode (LED) or other light producing devices or
combination of devices can be positioned, at least partially,
within the light source 1240. The light source 1240 can emit a
light beam through the aperture 1244 and a user can rotate the
cover 1242 to adjust the position of the aperture 1244 and the
direction of the light beam. Although the illustrated embodiment
includes a generally round light source 1240 and a single aperture
1244, in other embodiments, the light source 1240 can be shaped in
different manners and/or can include additional apertures. For
example, the light source 1240 can include three apertures to
provide varying light beams, e.g., varying positions, intensity
and/or beam width. In some embodiments, the light source 1240 can
produce fan beams and/or light emissions having other
characteristics. In a manner generally similar to that described
above with reference to the arm-mounted device 800 of FIGS. 8 and
9, the arm-mounted device 1200 and the light source 1240 can be
adjusted to assist a player with a bat swinging exercise.
[0059] FIG. 13 is a partially exploded isometric view of the
arm-mounted device 1200 of FIG. 12. In the illustrated embodiment,
the upper arm portion 1201 includes a first cylindrical portion
1302a, and the lower arm portion 1202 includes a complementary
second cylindrical portion 1302b. The first cylindrical portion
1302a and the second cylindrical portion 1302b include first and
second openings 1304a and 1304b, respectively. The first opening
1304a can include internal pinch-teeth 1305 and the second opening
1304b can include internal set-teeth (not shown). The adjustable
element 1230 can include a pinch-gear 1306 having a first cylinder
1308a and a second cylinder 1308b (collectively the cylinders
1308). The first cylinder 1308a can include a first button 1310a
and a first pinch-gear half 1312a. The second cylinder 1308b can
include a second button 1310b, a second pinch-gear half 1312b and a
set-gear 1314. A spring 1316 can be positioned within the cylinders
1308.
[0060] In operation, the first cylinder 1308a partially envelops
the second cylinder 1308b to form the pinch-gear 1306. The spring
1316 is contained within the pinch-gear 1306 and biases the first
cylinder 1308a away from the second cylinder 1308b. The set-gear
1314 engages the set-teeth in the second opening 1304b and prevents
the second pinch-gear half 1308b from rotating within the second
cylindrical portion 1302b. The first pinch-gear half 1312a aligns
with the second pinch-gear half 1312b so that corresponding
external pinch-teeth sets 1313a, 1313b engage with the internal
pinch-teeth 1305. The pinch-gear halves 1312 prevent the upper arm
portion 1201 from rotating and changing the angle A (FIG. 12)
between the upper arm portion 1201 and the lower arm portion 1202.
To change the angle A, a user can push the buttons 1310 to move the
pinch-gear halves 1312 axially so that the external pinch-teeth
sets 1313a, 1313b are out of alignment with the pinch-teeth 1305.
The user rotates the upper arm portion 1201 to form the desired
angle A and releases the buttons 1310. The spring 1316 pushes the
cylinders 1308 apart, to re-engage the external pinch-teeth sets
1313a, 1313b (carried by the pinch-gear halves 1312) with the
pinch-teeth 1305 and locking the arm-mounted device 1200 at the
desired angle A.
[0061] The arm-mounted device 1200 can be attached to a user's
upper arm in any of a variety of suitable manners. FIGS. 14A and
14B are isometric illustrations of a mounting device 1400
configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present
technology. The mounting device 1400 can include a sleeve 1402
having a patch 1404 and a strap 1406. The sleeve 1402 can be
configured to be positioned around an arm of a user 1401. The patch
1404 and the strap 1406 can include hook and loop fasteners for
attaching the arm-mounted device 1200 of FIGS. 12 and 13. In the
illustrated embodiment, the patch 1402 includes loop fasteners 1408
and the strap 1406 includes a tab 1410 having hook fasteners 1412.
The tab 1410 can include the hook fasteners 1412 on a first side
1414 and a second side (not shown) to enable a user to wrap the
strap 1406 around the sleeve 1402 clockwise or
counter-clockwise.
[0062] FIG. 15 is an isometric illustration of the arm-mounted
device 1200 releasably secured to a user's arm with the mounting
device 1400 in accordance with the present technology. Referring to
FIGS. 14A-15 together, the arm-mounted device 1200 can include an
adhesive patch (not visible) having hook fasteners attached to a
back side of the upper-arm portion 1201. The user 1401 can slide
the sleeve 1402 onto an arm and position the hook fasteners of the
adhesive patch against the patch 1404 (FIG. 14A) to partially
secure the arm-mounted device 1200 to the mounting device 1400. The
strap 1406 can be extended across the upper-arm portion 1201 and
the tab 1410 can be attached to the patch 1404, further securing
the arm-mounted device 1200 to the mounting device 1400.
[0063] The mounting device 1400 can be configured in a variety of
suitable sizes and colors. For example, in one embodiment, the
mounting device 1400 can be constructed in different sizes for a
variety of different sized users. In other embodiments, the
mounting device 1400 can be constructed in only one size and can be
made of suitably flexible material(s) to fit users varying in size
from small children to large adults. The mounting device 1400 can
be constructed of material(s) of varying colors and/or patterns to
provide a user with multiple choices to match their particular
preferences and/or match the design and/or color of other athletic
attire or uniforms.
[0064] FIGS. 16A is an isometric front view illustration of an-arm
mounted device 1600 configured in accordance with an embodiment of
the present technology. Several features of the arm-mounted device
1600 of FIG. 16A are similar in structure and function to the
arm-mounted device 1200 of FIGS. 12-15. The arm-mounted device 1600
includes a hinge 1610, a lower arm portion 1602 and an upper arm
portion 1601 having a light source 1640. The tear drop shaped light
source 1640 can be mounted in a slot 1650 and can include an on-off
button 1641 and a rotatable cover 1642 having an aperture 1644. An
angle marker 1632 can include a cutout 1633 and annotations to
indicate a numerical value of an angle A. The arm-mounted device
1600 can function in a manner generally similar to that described
above with reference to the arm-mounted devices 800, 1200.
[0065] FIG. 16B is an isometric rear view illustration of the
arm-mounted device 1600 having an adjustment knob 1652. The
arm-mounted device 1600 can include padded material 1654 that can
be positioned against a user's arm. The padded material 1654 can
include a cutout 1656. The light source 1640 can move along the
slot 1650 and can be secured into a position by tightening the
adjustment knob 1652. The light source 1640 can be positioned
within the slot and rotated appropriately for users who swing a bat
either right or left handed. By way of example, the light source
1640 can be positioned as shown in FIG. 16A for a user who swings
left handed. The aperture 1644 points toward the ground when the
left handed user assumes a batting stance with the arm-mounted
device 1600 positioned on the left arm and the aperture 1644
positioned as shown in FIG. 16A.
[0066] FIGS. 17A and 17B are side views of an arm-mounted device
1700 configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present
technology. The arm-mounted device 1700 includes an upper-arm
portion 1701, a lower arm portion 1702, an adjustable element 1730
and a light source 1740. The light source 1740 can be activated in
a number of manners. In the illustrated embodiment, a lever 1731 is
coupled to the lower arm portion 1702. The lever 1731 is operable
from a first position (A, FIG. 17A) to a second position (B, FIG.
17B). The lever 1731 can prevent the light source 1740 from
activating until a user has achieved the proper position to
initiate a swing. A user's forearm can be brought into contact with
the lever 1731 to pivot the lever 1731 from the first position (A)
to the second position (B), to effect the operation of the light
source 1740.
[0067] In one embodiment, a mode switch (not shown) can be combined
with the lever 1731. The mode switch can include an "on" position,
an "off" position and an "automatic" position. In the off position,
the light source 1740 cannot be activated. In the on position, the
light source 1740 can be active, regardless of the position of the
lever 1731. In the automatic position, the lever 1731 can control
the activation of the light source 1740. Moving the lever from the
first position (A) to the second position (B) can operate a switch
(not shown) and activate the light source 1740. Although the
illustrated embodiment includes a lever 1731, other embodiments can
include additional and/or alternative activation features. For
example, a push button, a toggle and/or other activation devices
can be included in this and/or other embodiments.
[0068] Although several of the arm-mounted devices described above
include hinges or other devices to adjust an angle between an upper
arm portion and a lower arm portion, embodiments in accordance with
the present technology can include fixed angle arm-mounted devices.
For example, in one embodiment, an arm-mounted device similar to
that shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B can be provided without a hinge. In
such an embodiment, the arm-mounted device can be produced having
any of several appropriate fixed angles. In a particular
embodiment, a plurality of arm-mounted devices can be provided with
each having a different fixed angle. A user can select from amongst
the multiple devices the particular fixed angle that is appropriate
for their particular swing or practice goals.
[0069] As described above, devices configured in accordance with
embodiments described herein can be worn during swing practice to
train a user proper swing technique. Devices in accordance with the
present technology can also be used in a game setting. Several
embodiments configured for use in a game setting can include
components or parts designed to withstand an impact from a fastball
and/or other high impact or forces. High impact plastics or other
impact resistant materials can be included in arm-mounted devices
to prevent damage and or injury. In some embodiments, rubber or
other materials that are not susceptible to impact breakage can be
used. For example, a relatively stiff rubber compound can be used
to form the lower and/or upper arm portion of an arm-mounted
device. In one embodiment, a light source can be detached from an
arm-mounted device to prevent any damage that may occur in a game
setting. In other embodiments, a light source is not included with
the arm-mounted device and tactile indication alone is used to
indicate a correct position.
[0070] A player can wear an arm-mounted device to enhance his or
her game performance in a manner similar to that described above
for swing practice. For example, the arm-mounted device can assist
the player by providing an indication that the player has
positioned her forearm against a lower arm portion of the device.
The player's lower arm motion is limited as her arm is brought into
contact with the lower arm portion of the arm-mounted device, and
the tactile sensation indicates that she has achieved the correct
position.
[0071] FIGS. 18A and 18B are photographs of an arm-mounted device
1800, a light source 1840 and a mounting strap 1805 configured in
accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. The
arm-mounted device 1800 can be similar in structure and function to
the arm-mounted devices described above. The light source 1840 can
be secured to the mounting strap 1805 in a variety of suitable
arrangements and can function in a manner similar to the light
sources described above. For example, similar to the embodiment
described above with respect to FIG. 8, the light source 1840 can
be positioned on the outside of a user's arm. In the illustrated
embodiment, the light source 1840 is secured to the mounting strap
1805 with a fabric loop 1807. The fabric loop 1807 can include a
flexible or stretchable material to secure the light source 1840.
In other embodiments, other securing means can be used, including
snaps, webbing and/or other fasteners.
[0072] In a manner generally similar to the mounting device 1400
described above with respect to FIG. 14, the mounting strap 1805
can secure the arm-mounted device 1800 to a user's arm (FIG. 18B).
The mounting strap 1805 can be positioned to hold the light source
1840 at a chosen location with respect to the user's arm. In the
illustrated embodiment, the mounting strap 1805 is positioned to
hold the light source 1840 along a posterior region of a user's
upper arm and generally parallel to the user's upper arm. In other
embodiments, the light source 1840 can be secured in other
positions and/or at an angle to a user's arm. For example, the
mounting strap 1805 can include a plurality of fabric loops 1807 to
provide multiple positions and/or angles for the light source 1840.
In another embodiment, the light source can be attached to an
adjustable mounting device that can be rotated or adjusted. The
mounting device can be adjusted to direct a light beam in a desired
direction, e.g., parallel to a user's arm, or at any other
preferred angle.
[0073] FIG. 19 is an isometric illustration of an arm-mounted
device 1900 configured in accordance with another embodiment of the
present technology. The arm-mounted device 1900 includes an upper
arm portion 1901 having an extension 1970. In the illustrated
embodiment, the extension 1970 can wrap around the outside of a
user's left arm or the inside of a user's right arm. The
arm-mounted device 1900 can include a slot (not shown) similar to
the slot 1650 of FIGS. 16A and 16B. The slot can extend along the
upper arm portion 1901 and the extension 1970. A light source (not
shown) can be moved within the slot in a manner similar to that
described above with respect to FIGS. 16A and 16B. Although the
illustrated embodiment includes an extension 1970 that is integral
with the upper arm portion 1901, extensions to the arm-mounted
devices described above can be configured in any of a variety of
suitable manners. For example, in one embodiment, an extension to
the upper arm portion of an arm-mounted device can be detachable. A
light source can be mounted to the detachable extension and the
detachable extension can be mounted to an upper arm portion. The
detachable extension can be configured to be mounted to extend to
the outside and/or the inside of a user's upper arm.
[0074] One feature of several of the devices configured in
accordance with embodiments described above is that they can train
the batter to position the forearm more tightly or closely relative
to the upper arm, and thus counteract the tendency for some batters
to open the forearm relative to the upper arm prior to the proper
time to do so. This is unlike some existing devices and associated
methods used in other sports (e.g., golf) which are constructed and
used in a manner that prevents, rather than encourages, closure of
the forearm relative to the upper arm. As discussed above, training
with devices in accordance with the present disclosure can improve
the consistency and speed of the batter's swing. In particular, a
less obtuse angle between the batter's forearm and upper arm allows
the batter to deliver the bat to the hitting zone faster. In
addition, devices in accordance with further embodiments of the
disclosure (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 6-19) can monitor and/or
control the motion of the batter's arm relative to the batter's
torso, again to improve the batter's swing.
[0075] Another feature of several of the devices configured in
accordance with embodiments described above is that they can aid
the user in developing a consistent swing by providing indications
that the player is consistently achieving the correct position for
each portion of his or her swing. For example, the foot position
indicators 875 (FIG. 10A) and the set indicator 872 can aid the
player in achieving a proper set position. Additionally, the
embodiments described above can aid a user in developing a
consistent swing from the set position to the load position and
from the load position to the throw position, by providing
feedback, e.g. direct feedback, to the user. The user can see the
set position and the track of a swing in real time or with lit
indicators (as described above with respect to FIGS. 9-10B), and
compare the set position and the track to a desired set position
and track, and make appropriate adjustments. Additionally, audible
indicators (as described above with respect to FIGS. 9-10C) can be
used to assist the user. The user can practice the swing over and
over again, developing the muscle memory to reproduce a
fundamentally sound swing.
[0076] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that specific
embodiments of the disclosure have been described herein for
purposes of illustration, but that various modifications may be
made without deviating from the disclosure. For example, the hinges
and other components can have other configurations in other
embodiments. The device can be attached to the batter's lower arm
rather than the upper arm, provided it does not slide toward the
wrist during a swing. The light source can be augmented or replaced
by an energy source that emits energy other than light. Certain
aspects of the disclosure described in the context of particular
embodiments may be combined or eliminated in other embodiments. For
example, in some embodiments, the elastic line 619 and attachment
620 described above can be eliminated. In other embodiments,
certain aspects of any of the devices shown in FIGS. 1-5 can be
combined with aspects of the devices shown in FIGS. 6-19 to provide
an integrated motion control function. In still further
embodiments, the system can include an arm-mounted device alone, or
a tracking device that does not include an arm-mounted device
specifically configured to control the user's load position.
Further, while advantages associated with certain embodiments have
been described in the context of those embodiments, other
embodiments may also exhibit such advantages and not all
embodiments need necessarily exhibit such advantages, to fall
within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the
disclosure can include other embodiments not expressly shown or
described above.
* * * * *