U.S. patent application number 14/995485 was filed with the patent office on 2016-05-12 for sliding handle training bat.
The applicant listed for this patent is Juan Rodriguez. Invention is credited to Juan Rodriguez.
Application Number | 20160129330 14/995485 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53774059 |
Filed Date | 2016-05-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160129330 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Rodriguez; Juan |
May 12, 2016 |
SLIDING HANDLE TRAINING BAT
Abstract
A training bat has a central rod extending through the
longitudinal length of the bat. A knob may be located at a proximal
end of the bat. A handle located immediately distal to the knob may
slide along the length of the rod. A cone section may be located
distal to the handle. The knob and cone section may limit the
longitudinal sliding of the handle. A barrel section may be located
distal to the cone section. If the barrel section includes an
interior chamber, the distal end of the barrel section may include
a removable cap. Weights, springs, pins and other objects may be
located inside the barrel section. Electrical components or other
devices may also be included in the cone section, barrel section or
cap. The handle may include an acoustic chamber and an amplifying
chamber to provide for emission of a sound when the bat is swung.
The acoustic chamber and amplifying chamber may also incorporate
safety features.
Inventors: |
Rodriguez; Juan;
(Wellington, FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Rodriguez; Juan |
Wellington |
FL |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
53774059 |
Appl. No.: |
14/995485 |
Filed: |
January 14, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14622703 |
Feb 13, 2015 |
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14995485 |
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61939707 |
Feb 13, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
473/564 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2071/0694 20130101;
A63B 2208/0204 20130101; A63B 71/0622 20130101; A63B 60/46
20151001; A63B 2220/40 20130101; A63B 2210/50 20130101; A63B
2220/30 20130101; A63B 60/002 20200801; A63B 60/16 20151001; A63B
15/005 20130101; A63B 69/0002 20130101; A63B 2071/0625 20130101;
A63B 59/50 20151001; A63B 2220/20 20130101; A63B 15/02 20130101;
A63B 59/58 20151001; A63B 2225/74 20200801; A63B 59/59 20151001;
A63B 2225/50 20130101; A63B 60/50 20151001; A63B 2069/0008
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/00 20060101
A63B069/00 |
Claims
1. A training bat for improving a baseball player's swing
comprising: a rod having a proximal end and a distal end; a knob at
the proximal end of the rod; a barrel region at the distal end of
the rod; a handle around and slidably engaged with the rod.
2. The training bat of claim 1 wherein the handle comprises an
acoustic chamber, a body and an amplifying chamber.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 61/939,707 filed on Feb. 13, 2014, the
contents of which are hereby incorporated in their entirety.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable.
NAMES OF PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT
[0003] Not Applicable
REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM
LISTING APPENDIX SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC AND
INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF THE MATERIAL
[0004] Not Applicable.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
[0005] Not Applicable
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0006] 1. Field of the Invention
[0007] The present invention relates to devices and methods for
training athletes. More particularly, the invention relates to
devices, systems and methods to improving an athlete's swing of a
baseball bat or other device.
[0008] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0009] Many devices and techniques have been developed to improve
athletic performance of baseball players. Bat swing practice means
of various kinds have been conventionally proposed and used. For
example, there is known a bat swing practice means in which a
weight having a predetermined weight value is slidably placed on a
bat-shape shaft body to be swung.
[0010] In the past, a variety of exercise or warm-up devices have
been provided for use by baseball players. Persons who play
baseball, softball, and similar sports, often use various devices
and methods to improve their batting skills. For example, players
may utilize a plurality of bats, a single bat with weighted collars
or clamps and the like attached thereto, permanently weighted bats
(e.g. hollowed out bats with solid or flowable weight materials
included therewithin), or a bat with attached vanes or the like to
effect aerodynamic drag. Such devices and methods are employed to
facilitate general warming-up, stretching muscles, and developing
the muscles used for batting, as well as to improve a player's bat
speed, reaction skill, bat control, and the like. Swinging a
plurality of bats can be awkward, and there is a limit as to how
many bats a person can swing safely and/or comfortably.
[0011] Unlike power hitting, in which a bat is swung at a ball with
immediate acceleration for high speed so as to gain maximum
momentum and great impact upon contact with a pitched ball, contact
hitting requires a more controlled swing in which the bat is drawn
more slowly toward contact with the ball, with minimal
acceleration, and the wrists of the batter are turned just prior to
making contact with the ball so as quickly to accelerate, or
"snap", the bat for accurate placement of the hit ball. While many
training devices have been proposed for increasing proficiency in
power hitting, these devices are not suited to learning the
controlled swing necessary in contact hitting, and especially in
connection with hitting in soft ball play.
[0012] Further, none of these existing devices assist an athlete
and/or trainer in identifying problems with an athletes bat swing
such as, for example, the amount of twisting done to the bat during
a swing, or whether a wrist is actuated at the proper time and to
the proper extent to optimize performance.
[0013] Further, none of the existing devices assist an athlete in
learning to naturally assume proper stance and posture, or to
maintain proper stance and posture while simultaneously minimizing
negative twisting, or rolling of the bat during a swing.
[0014] In view of the foregoing, there is a need to provide means
by which and athlete and trainer may isolate and identify many
distinct aspects of an athlete's posture, stance and kinetics as
they relate to baseball performance.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] Disclosed is a training bat having a central rod extending
through the longitudinal length of the bat. A knob may be located
at a proximal end of the bat. A handle may be located immediately
distal to the knob and capable of sliding along a portion of the
length of the rod. A cone section may be placed distal to the
handle and may limit the distance to which the handle may distally
slide along the rod. A barrel section may be located distal to the
cone section. If the barrel section includes an interior chamber,
the distal end of the barrel section may include a removable cap.
Weight, Springs, pins and other objects may be located inside the
barrel section. Electrical components or other devices may also be
included in the cone section, barrel section or cap.
[0016] In one embodiment, the cone section and barrel section are
individual components. Weights may be placed inside an interior
chamber of the barrel section. Weight placed inside the barrel
section may have a toroidal shape and may be placed around a Rod
that extends through the interior chamber. A cap may seal the
interior chamber.
[0017] In some embodiments, the handle may include a proximal
acoustic chamber optimized for producing sound when the handle
impacts the knob during a swing. The acoustic chamber may be
designed to maximize the volume and minimized the duration of a
sound generated by the knob impacting the handle. The distal end of
the handle may include an amplifying chamber having cylindrical
walls that may impart a bell or bullhorn shape to the amplifying
chamber. The walls of the acoustic and amplifying chambers also
function as a safety feature to minimize the likelihood of an
operator pinching a hands or other body part.
[0018] It is therefore an object of the present invention to
provide a training bat for assisting baseball players in improving
their swing. It is also an object of the present invention to
provide a training bat capable of producing a sounds when its
handle slides down to the proximal end of the bat.
[0019] These and other objects and advantages of the present
invention will become apparent from a reading of the attached
specification and appended claims. There has thus been outlined,
rather broadly, the more important features of the invention in
order that the detailed description thereof that follows may be
better understood, and in order that the present contribution to
the art may be better appreciated. There are features of the
invention that will be described hereinafter and which will form
the subject matter of the claims appended hereto.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] A more complete understanding of the present invention, and
the attendant advantages and features thereof, will be more readily
understood by reference to the following detailed description when
considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings
wherein:
[0021] FIG. 1 is a perspective exploded view of a training bat in
accordance with the principles of the invention;
[0022] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a cone section and
barrel section of a training bat in accordance with the principles
of the invention;
[0023] FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of a handle and knob
of a training bat in accordance with the principles of the
invention;
[0024] FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of a handle and knob
of a training bat in accordance with the principles of the
invention;
[0025] FIG. 5 is a side cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of a handle and knob of a training bat in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0026] FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of a cone section and barrel section of a training bat
in accordance with the principles of the invention;
[0027] FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of a cone section and barrel section of a training bat
in accordance with the principles of the invention;
[0028] FIG. 8 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of a
training bat and its components in accordance with the principles
of the invention;
[0029] FIG. 9 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of a
training bat in accordance with the principles of the
invention;
[0030] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional side view of an alternative
embodiment of a knob of a training bat in accordance with the
principles of the invention;
[0031] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional side view of an alternative
embodiment of a cap of a training bat in accordance with the
principles of the invention;
[0032] FIG. 12 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of a
sliding handle for a baseball bat in accordance with the principles
of the invention;
[0033] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of a sliding handle for a baseball bat in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0034] FIG. 14 is a top plan view of a cuff of an alternative
embodiment of a sliding handle for a baseball bat in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0035] FIG. 15 is a side view of another alternative embodiment of
a sliding handle for a baseball bat in accordance with the
principles of the invention;
[0036] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative
embodiment of a sliding handle for a baseball bat in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0037] FIG. 17 is a partially exploded view of another alternative
embodiment of a sliding handle for a baseball bat in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0038] FIG. 18 is a top plan view of two sections of an alternative
embodiment for a sliding handle for a baseball bat in accordance
with the principles of the invention;
[0039] FIG. 19 is a top cross-sectional view of the cuffs and rails
of another alternative embodiment of a sliding handle for a
baseball bat in accordance with the principles of the
invention;
[0040] FIG. 20 is a top cross-sectional view of the cuffs, rails
and two sections of an alternative embodiment of a sliding handle
for a baseball bat in accordance with the principles of the
invention;
[0041] FIG. 21 is a side cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of a sliding handle for a baseball bat in accordance
with the principles of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0042] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention
in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited
in its application to the details of construction and to the
arrangements of the components set forth in the following
description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is
capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out
in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology
and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description
and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0043] FIG. 1 shows a training bat 10 in accordance with principles
of the invention. The training bat 10 may have a length defined by
a proximal end 17 and a distal end 19. In this exploded view, many
salient features of training bat 10 are apparent. A rod 12 may
extend longitudinally along substantially the entire length of the
training bat 10. The rod 12 may be, as shown here, a cylindrical
rod having a substantially circular cross-section. However, it may
be desirable to use a Rod having one or more flat faces and having
a cross-section that is not completely circular or having a
polygonal shape. It may also be desirable to include one or more
slots extending longitudinally or radially about the exterior of
the Rod. Slots, grooves, and protrusion on the rod 12 may be used
to engage other components of the training bat 10.
[0044] For clarity, references may be made throughout this
disclosure to a longitudinal axis 11, along which rod 12 runs
parallel, and references may be made to various objects or
components as being distal or proximal to one another along
longitudinal axis 11. In addition, there may be a substantial
amount of radial symmetry in the components centered about
longitudinal axis 11.
[0045] A cone section 16 may be substantially conical or
frustoconical, and may be positioned about the rod 12. The cone
section 16 may impart to training bat 10 and appearance more
similar to a classic that they may would have without the cone
section 16. The cone section 16 may optionally be removable and may
optionally be weighted and may optionally have an adjustable
weight. The cone section 16 may be hollow, solid, or may contain a
frame, storage compartment, or other internal structure.
[0046] The proximal end 17 of the training bat 10 may include a
knob 15 that may have a greater diameter or width, than the rod 12.
A handle 14 may be positioned about the rod 12 between the cone
section 16 and the knob 15. The handle 14 may be configured to
freely slide up and down the longitudinal length of the rod 12
between the knob 15 and the cone section 16. The handle 14 may have
a general shape, configuration and structure comparable to the
handle portion of a regular bat. The handle 14 may optionally be
configured to rotate freely about the rod 12 or optionally
configured such that it may not rotate in relation to the rod
12.
[0047] A barrel section 18, may be located distally to the knob 15,
handle 14 and cone section 16. The proximal end of barrel section
18, may abut the wider, distal end of the cone section 16. The cone
section 16 may optionally be attached either removably or
permanently to the barrel section 18. The barrel section 18, may be
substantially hollow having an internal chamber. The rod 12 may
extends distally through the entire length of the barrel section 18
and may all or a portion of the rod 12 may be threaded or
smooth.
[0048] A weight 23 may have a relatively toroidal shape such that
it may be placed with in the barrel section 18 and around the rod
12. Weight 23 may include threading through its central hole, or
may otherwise be designed to engage one or more devices for proper
positioning of the weight 23 within the barrel section 18. The most
distal component of the training bat 10 may be a removable 22 that
may be removed. In order to access the interior of the barrel
section 18.
[0049] FIG. 2 provides a cross-sectional view of the cone section
16 and the barrel section 18. Cone section 16 may include a distal
end 25 having a diameter approximately equal to the diameter of the
barrel region 18. The cone section 16 may taper in the proximal
direction along axis 11 such that its proximal end 24 has a
diameter only slightly larger than the diameter of the rod 12. In
this embodiment, distal end 25 of the cone section 16 is flush with
and abuts against the proximal end 27 of the barrel section 18. It
may be desirable for the cone section 16 and the barrel section 18
to be formed from a single unitary body, or be otherwise integrated
by for example, removable or permanent affixation to one another.
It may be desirable for the cone section 16 and the barrel section
18 to be capable of rotating in relation to one another.
[0050] In this embodiment, cone section 16 has a frustoconical
shape. Optionally, cone section 16 may have a diameter that
decreases in a stepwise rather than gradual manner from the distal
to the proximal end. It may also be desirable for the cone section
16 to be completely removed. In embodiments that do not include a
cone section, the barrel section may be longer. It may also be
desirable for cone section 16 to include various ornamental or
other features, such as blinking lights, devices for producing
sound and other circuitry or may optionally include team or brand
logos.
[0051] Barrel section 18, may be substantially cylindrical and may
have substantially the same diameter at both proximal end 27 and
distal end 31. In this embodiment, rod 12 extends through the
entire length of the barrel section 18. Rod 12 may be smooth, or
may include threading and may include other surface textures or
features. In this embodiment, rod 12 includes a distal threaded
region 35.
[0052] A pin 30 extends through rod 12, thereby limiting the extent
to which weights 32 may travel into the interior chamber 28 defined
by cylindrical outer wall 26. Other devices, such as a washer,
spring or other device may be used to limit the extent to which a
weight or other object may travel into the interior chamber 28. In
this embodiment, two weights 32 and have been placed into the
interior chamber 28. A cap 22 covers and seals the distal end 31 of
the barrel section 18. Cap 22 may screw on to the threaded region
35 of the rod 12. Cap 22 may include an O-ring 36 that may
facilitate hermetic sealing between the cap 22 and the distal end
31 of the barrel section 10, and may also prevent the cap 22 from
unscrewing during use. A spring 34 may be placed with in the
interior chamber 28 distal to the weight 32, thereby imparting a
bias in the proximal direction against weight 32. As a result, the
weight 32 may be held securely in place such that they do not slide
back and forth, longitudinally while the training bat 10 is in use.
Optionally, a spring 34 may not be included, thereby permitting
weight 32 to slide longitudinally along Rod 12. By optionally
removing 1030, weight 32 may be free to move longitudinally along
the entire length of the barrel section 18, from the proximal and
seven to the distal end 31.
[0053] FIG. 3 shows the handle 14 in more detail. Handle 14 may be
substantially radially symmetric, surrounding a Rod 12, which may
traverse door 44 positioned down the middle of the body 40 of the
handle 14. The distal and 50 of the handle 14 may include a
cylindrical wall 54, which along with floor 61 defines an
amplifying chamber 56. As will be explained in more detail, the
amplifying chamber 56 may be an important feature of the training
bat 10, by increasing safety and increasing an audio signal
generated during operation of the training bat 10.
[0054] Body 40 may have a concave exterior surface 42. It may be
desirable for the exterior surface 42 of the body 42. Have a size,
shape, appearance and feel of a standard baseball bat. Therefore,
it may be desirable for the exterior surface 42 to be knurled,
ribbed or otherwise textured. Optionally, tape may be wrapped about
the handle 14 substantially covering exterior surface 42 to further
emulate a standard baseball bat.
[0055] The proximal end 52 of the handle 14 may also include a
cylindrical wall 57, which along with the tympanic panel 45 defines
a proximal acoustic chamber 58. The interior sides of walls 57 may
include one or more niches 60 into which a locking pin 64 may be
inserted when an operator desires to lock the handle 14 into a
stationary position.
[0056] The knob 23 located at the proximal end of the rod 12. It
may include on its exterior, proximal surface 63 a locking lever
62. When the locking lever 62 is rotated, locking pins 64 extend
outwardly from the knob 23 such that they may engage niches 60 and
thereby secure the handle 14 at the proximal end of the training
bat 10. Knob 23 may optionally incorporate any other suitable
mechanism for locking a handle 14 to the proximal end of a training
bat 10. Optionally, a training bat may not provide a means for
locking into place, the handle 14.
[0057] Knob 23 may include a percussion panel 47 located on its
distal side. Percussion panel 47 and tympanic panel 45 may be
designed to emit a loud cracking or popping sound when they come in
contact with each other. During operation of the bat, an operator
may practice stance and form by listening for the sound emitted.
During a swing, centripetal force may pull the barrel section
outward and away from the handle. As the handle 14 slides along rod
12 and a proximal direction, it's sliding may be stopped when the
percussion panel 47 impacts tympanic panel 45, thereby stopping
handle 14's sliding motion relative to the rod 12 and emitting a
sound. When an operator swings the training bat 10 properly, the
sound will be emitted when the bat attains a particular
predetermined position relative to the operator. Therefore, it may
be desirable to provide a tympanic panel 45 and a percussion panel
47 that may be optimized to produce a sound having maximized
volume, but minimized duration. A short loud sound may assist in
operator in determining more precisely the correctness of his or
her form.
[0058] The body 40 of the handle 14 may be preferably constructed
of a material capable of transmitting sound waves very efficiently
and quickly from the acoustic chamber 58 to the amplifying chamber
56. Without being bound by theory, the inventor believes that the
cylindrical wall 54 about amplifying chamber 56 may result in the
sound created in the acoustic chamber 58 being amplified when it
reverberates through the chamber floor 61 and walls 54 of the
amplifying chamber 56. That is, the shape of the amplifying chamber
may operate under the same acoustic principles as a bullhorn or
similar device. It may also be desirable for the body to be
constructed of a material that may be sturdy enough to withstand
repeated impingement so substantial force by percussion panel 47 on
tympanic panel 45. It may also be desirable for body 40 to be
constructed of a material that may be both durable and capable of
transmitting the emitted sound while retaining its maximized volume
and minimized duration. This may be desirable in order to maximize
the amplifying nature of the amplifying chamber 56. Again without
being bound by theory, the inventor believes that the acoustic
chamber 58 of the handle 14 may also amplify the sound emitted by
the impinging of percussion panel 47 on tympanic panel 48 by virtue
of its side walls 57.
[0059] FIG. 4 shows the handle 14 and knob 23 locked together by
the insertion of pins 64 into niches 60. The training bat 10 may be
used in practice more like a regular bat when handle 14 is locked
onto the knob 23. This configuration may also be advantageous when
an operator desires to store the training bat 10. As mentioned
above, other means of securing the handle 14 to the knob 23 may be
any suitable mechanism known in the art, for example. Threading on
the interior walls 57 may be used to screw the knob 23 into the
acoustic chamber 58. Latches, straps, pins, screws or any other
suitable mechanism. Optionally, it may be desirable for the handle
to be designed to be secured to the code section in place of or in
addition to the securement at the proximal region of the bat.
[0060] Both acoustic chamber 58 and amplifying chamber 56 may serve
an additional purpose in serving as safety features as well as
devices for generating an effective sound. When a bat is swung
rapidly, substantial centripetal force may be imparted at the
distal end of the training bat 10, causing the handle 14 to slide
proximally very rapidly. Were the location of the stopping impact,
located at tympanic panel 45 and percussion panel 47 exposed, an
operator may inadvertently pinch a finger or other region of the
palm. This may result in substantial pain and even serious injury.
By providing a cylindrical wall 57 that substantially conceals the
point of impact, the training bat 10 may be very safe to handle
even by children of a young age. The locations on the training bat
10 that may pose a pinching danger may be removed to a distant
safely away from the exterior surface 42 of the handle 14 where an
operator's hands would be placed.
[0061] FIG. 5 shows an alternative embodiment of a handle 100 and a
knob 108 at the proximal end 103 of the rod 102. Handle 100 may
include an amplifying chamber 117 defined by the cylindrical
sidewall 113 and the chamber floor 115. The acoustic chamber 119
may be defined by the tympanic panel 109 and the cylindrical wall
111. Handle 100 may also include one or more breaks 106. The breaks
106 may be adjusted radially, being moved closer or further from
the rod 102. By positioning the breaks 106, such that they impinge
upon rod 102, an operator may adjust the speed at which the handle
100 traverses the rod 102.
[0062] The knob 108 includes a percussion panel 107 that has not
been formed as an integral part of the knob 108. Instead,
percussion panel 107 may be comprised of a particular material
and/or configuration in order to maximize the volume of or shorten
the duration of a sound created in the acoustic chamber 119 when
percussion panel 107 impinges upon tympanic panel 109. Optionally,
percussion panel 107 may be designed to reduce the amount of noise
created. This may be desirable when an operator desires to minimize
the noise of training. There is no locking mechanism on the knob
108. Instead, application of the breaks 106 may lock the handle 100
at any location along the rod 102.
[0063] FIG. 6 shows an alternative embodiment of a barrel section
70 and a cone section 74. In this embodiment, the cone section 74
has a more fresh to conical shape because the proximal end 77 of
the cone section 74, has been slightly truncated. The proximal end
77, forming a small planar surface perpendicular to the rod 72 and
the longitudinal axis of the bat. As a result, proximal end 77 may
abut the floor of the acoustic chamber of a handle positioned
proximal to the cone section. This may prevent the proximal end 77
of the cone section 74, from entering the bore of a handle which
the rod 72 traverses.
[0064] The distal end 79 of the cone section 74 may be
substantially flush with and abut the proximal end 80, one of the
barrel section 70. Cone section 74 may be secured in place and in
the proper orientation by any suitable means. Cone section 74 may
be secured to the rod 72 and/or the barrel section 70. The cone
section 74 may optionally be formed as an integral part of or as a
unitary body with either the rod will will 72 or the barrel section
70. The cone section 74 may perform a variety of functions
including creating an appearance similar to a standard baseball
bat. The cone section 74 may have one or more concave, convex or
angular sections or surfaces. It may be formed from rigid or
flexible material.
[0065] The barrel section 70 may be comprised of a proximal end 81
and a cylindrical wall 76 that may define an interior chamber 78.
The interior chamber 78 may be substantially cylindrical. However,
like other components in accordance with the principles of the
invention, the interior chamber may be preferably radially
symmetric, and may have a variety of three-dimensional shapes, such
as for example, an ellipsoid or a polygonal prism. In this
embodiments, a spring 84 may be placed in the proximal end 81 of
the barrel section 70, around the rod 72, which traverses the
barrel section 70 along its axis of symmetry. A cap 73 may be
removably attached to the distal end 83 of the barrel section 70.
In this embodiment, the cap 73 may be removably attached by
engaging the threading of the threaded region 84 of the rod 72 and
screwed into place. The cap 73 may optionally be attached by
engaging threading on the interior side of the cylindrical wall 76,
may snap into place more be removably affixed by other means.
[0066] The cap 73, like The cone section 74, may be comprised of a
rigid or flexible material. It may be solid, or it may include
internal cavities. Either the cone section 74 or the cap 73 may
include electronics for emitting lights and/or sound. It may be
desirable to incorporate a device into either the cap 73 or the
cone section 74 that emits a light or noise when a predetermined
amount of centrifugal or centripetal force is detected, when a
predetermined amount of torque force is detected or upon detection
of other forces.
[0067] A weight 82 may be inserted into the internal chamber 78
through the distal end 83 of the barrel section 70. The spring 80
may impart to the weight 82 a bias toward the distal end 83 of the
barrel section 70. This may prevent the weight from sliding
longitudinally and traversing the interior cavity 78. Such movement
may be undesirable. Optionally, a spring may be placed both
distally and proximally to weight 82. Optionally, the weight 82 may
be Incorporated into the cap 73. This may eliminate the need to
incorporate a spring 80 into the interior chamber 78.
[0068] In this embodiment, the interior chamber is relatively large
and the cylindrical wall 76 is relatively thin. The bat may
optionally utilize a solid barrel section 70 having no internal
chamber. Where the barrel section 70 has no interior chamber, the
cap 73 may be an unnecessary component. Optionally, the interior
chamber 78 may be accessed from locations other than the distal end
83. For example, one or more openings may be located in either the
cylindrical wall 76 or the proximal end 81.
[0069] FIG. 7 shows another alternative embodiment of a barrel
section 110 having a cone section 114 integrated such that the to
form a single unitary body. The cone section 114 tapers and a
proximal direction along longitudinal axis 124, which may also
serve as an axis of symmetry. A cylindrical wall 116 along with the
cone section 114 defines an interior chamber 118. A weight 122. In
this embodiment may move freely within the interior chamber 118. A
cap 120 may cover a distal opening at the distal end 111 of the
barrel section 110. The cap 120 may be removably engaged with a
threaded section 113 of the Rod 112.
[0070] FIG. 8 shows an alternative embodiment of a training bat 90.
The training bat 90 may be of a simpler design. It may include a
rod 92 having a flange 97 at its proximal end. A handle 96 may be
slid over the distal end 93 of the rod 92. A cone section 94 may
then be attached to the distal end 93 of the rod 92. A weight 98
may optionally be affixed to the cone section 94. Those skilled in
the art will appreciate that annular weights 98 are known for use
with baseball bats to improve a baseball players swing. The handle
96 may slide along the length of the rod 92 between the cone 94 and
the flange 97. This embodiment does not include features such as an
acoustic chamber and an amplifying chamber.
[0071] FIG. 9 shows another alternative embodiment of a training
bat 130 in accordance with principles of the invention. Training
bat 130 includes a rod 132, about which a handle 138 may be placed.
As a flanged proximal end 140 prevents the handle 138 from sliding
off the Rod 132. A cone section 134 may be affixed to rod 132, and
may prevent the handle 138 from sliding off the distal end 140 of
the rod 132. The distal end 140 of the Rod 132 may be threaded and
may be configured to engage threaded bore 142 of a barrel section
136. The barrel section 136 in this embodiment is solid and may
have a predetermined weight. The barrel section 136 may be removed
and replaced with alternative barrel sections having different
weights.
[0072] FIG. 10 shows an alternative embodiment of a knob 150 at the
proximal end of a Rod 154 and handle 152. The knob 150 includes a
small laser 156 that may emanate a laser beam 158 and a proximal
direction. The laser 156 may be comparable to a laser pointer as is
commonly used with a laser pointer pen, or a keychain. When an
operator uses a baseball T stand, he or she may adjust the position
of the baseball bat such that the laser beam 158 points that and
lands upon a ball atop a T stand prior to initiating a swing. Once
the laser beam 158 is aligned such that it hits a baseball, an
operator may initiate a swing. This may further improve the
operator swing.
[0073] FIG. 11 shows an alternative embodiment of a cap 160 for use
on the distal end of a baseball bat. The 160 may engage the
threaded region of a Rod 162 and the sidewall 164 of the barrel of
a training bat. The cap 160 may house, a sensor package 166. The
sensor package 166 may include an accelerometer, a motion sensor
and other components. When a training bat is swung, it may detect
and record the velocity, acceleration, torque force and other
physical data. The 160 may include a screen 168 on the exterior of
the cap 160 and/or a transmitter. A screen 168 may provide the
information recorded by the sensor package 166. Optionally, the
sensor package 166 may transmit the recorded data to an electronic
device, for example, a cell phone. The sensor package 166 may
include Bluetooth.RTM., or other signal transmission technology and
may also interact with a smart phone application or other software.
This may allow an operator practicing with a bat and/or his or her
coach to analyze and manipulate the data recorded by the sensor
package and use that data to further improve and operators
swing.
[0074] FIGS. 12 to 14 show an alternative embodiment 200 of a
sliding handle training bat in accordance with the principles of
the invention. The alternative embodiment 200 includes an annular
cuff 202, the sleeve 215 and a sliding handle 204 configured to fit
around a typical baseball bat 206. The baseball bat 206 is of the
type commonly used in the game of baseball. It includes a distal
barrel 208 designed to contact a baseball, a proximal knob 210 and
a substantially cylindrical handle 212 positioned between and
connecting the proximal knob 210 to the distal barrel 208.
[0075] In this embodiment, a sleeve 215 is placed over the handle
212 and the distal side of the knob 210. The sleeve 215 extends
from the knob 210 to the cuff 202. Optionally, the sleeve 215 may
be formed integrally with the cuff 202 or maybe a separate
component. The sliding handle 204 may translate along the
longitudinal axis 201 of the bat 206 along the length of the bat
handle 204, the distance traversed being limited by the knob 210 at
its proximal end and the annular cuff 202 at its distal end. If a
sleeve 215 is used, the sliding handle 204 only has physical
contact with the cuff 202 and the sleeve 215. The sleeve 215, cuff
202 and sliding handle 204 are all removably attached in this
embodiment. Optionally, one or more of these components may be
affixed permanently about the handle 212.
[0076] Long-term continued use of the sliding handle 204 may wear
down or otherwise damage the baseball bats handle 212. Use of the
sleeve 215 may prevent such damage and may provide a smoother
surface allowing the handle 204 to slide more smoothly.
Additionally, baseball bats often have tape or other material
wrapped around or coating the handle 212. These materials are
designed to provide a better grip for an operator of the baseball
bats and may impede smooth sliding of the sliding handle 204. The
sleeve 215 may cover such material such that it does not need to be
removed. An operator may thus affix the sleeve 215 and the cuff 202
to a typical baseball bat 206 and then snap the removable sliding
handle 204 overs the sleeve 215 between the knob 210 and the cuff
202. An operator may then practice and hone his or her swing. The
sliding handle 204, cuff 202 and sleeve 212 may then be removed
from the baseball bat 206 so that the bat may then be used in
playing baseball.
[0077] In this embodiment, the cuff 202 is formed from two
semicircular sections 214 that may be removably connected by a lock
216 and the two sections 214 may be pivotally attached at a hinge
218. The lock 216 may be any mechanism commonly used to removably
connect two objects. For example, the connection may use a nut and
bolt, a latch, a snap fit device or other similar removable
attachment mechanism. In this embodiment, the lock 216 includes an
external button 217 that releases a latch 209 the lock when
depressed. Optionally, the button 217 may be configured to only
release the lock 216 when the button 217 is slid or pushed in a
given direction. Optionally, the lock 217 may be replaced with
other engaging mechanisms, for example, complementary magnets,
snap-fit or friction-fit mortise and tenon mechanisms,
complementary holes with a removable linchpin, or other devices
known in the art. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that
there are a number of suitable locking mechanisms suitable for
removably affixing the two sections 214 to each other to form a
ring about the bat.
[0078] The cuff 202 may optionally be configured to form a friction
fit with a distal region of the handle 212 of the bat 206, or may
use other engaging mechanisms as explained above in relation to the
sliding handle. Optionally, the cuff may be comprised of a single
section made of any elastic material allowing it to be wrapped
around the handle. For example, the cuff 202 may be comprised of a
thick rubber ring such as an O-ring. The cuff 202 may preferably be
configured to frictionally engage the bat 206 at or near the
intersection of the bat handle 206 and the bat distal barrel
208.
[0079] The sleeve 215 may be integral with the cuff 202 or may be a
separate component. Optionally, the sleeve 215 may be semirigid or
rigid and secure the cuff 202 between itself and the outwardly
tapering barrel 208 of the bat. In this embodiment, the sleeve 215
includes an annular flange 227 configured to abut against and cover
the distal end 213 of the knob 210.
[0080] As may be seen and FIG. 13, the sleeve 215 of this
embodiment has a cylindrical outer surface 219 having an
approximately equal circumference extending from the annular flange
217 to the cuff 202. The inner surface may be configured to life
flush against the slightly convex surface 229 of the handle 212.
Optionally, the inner surface 219 of the sleeve 215 may also be
cylindrical and have a constant circumference along the length of
the sleeve 215.
[0081] The sliding handle 204 of this embodiment has a body 205
comprised of two handle half sections 220 connected by hinges 221
and removably affixed to each other at by locks 222. As with the
lock 216 of the cuff 202, the locks 222 may consist of any suitable
mechanism for removable engagements. In this embodiment, buttons
223 release the locks 222 when depressed. The two half sections 220
when joined completely surround the sleeve 215. The body 205 is
configured to fit loosely over the sleeve 215 such that it may
easily slide up and down the length of the sleeve 215.
[0082] As with other embodiments, the sliding handle 204 of this
embodiment includes an annular proximal lip 228 that extends in a
proximal direction, overlapping and covering the knob 210 when the
handle 204 is in its most proximal position. A tympanic panel 230
in this embodiment is substantially planar and perpendicular to the
bat handle 212.
[0083] As with other embodiments, when the training bat 200 is
swung, the sliding handle 204 will slide toward the proximal end of
the bat 206 until the sliding motion is halted when the tympanic
panel 330 impinges on the distal side 332 of the knob 210, which
may or may not be covered by a sleeve 212. The contact of the
tympanic panel 330 with the distal side 332 of the knob 210 creates
a sound that may be amplified by the lip 228 and an athlete using
the bat may adjust his or her swing according to the time at which
the sound is generated. As with other sliding handles disclosed
herein, the sliding handle 204 may include a distal annular lip
forming a distal acoustic chamber 242. When a snapping or cracking
sound is generated by the tympanic panel 230 impinging upon the
knob 210, the distal acoustic chamber may amplify the sound
reverberating throughout the handle 204.
[0084] One advantage of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 12 to 14 is
that it may be attached to any standard bat and so an athlete may
more easily utilize the invention without buying a specially
modified training bat. Another advantage may be that an athlete may
use the sliding handle training device in accordance with the
invention using a bat he or she is already familiar with.
[0085] FIGS. 15 and 16 show an alternative embodiment 250 of a
sliding handle training bat in accordance with the principles of
the invention. This embodiment uses a typical baseball bat 252 and
a sliding handle 254 similar to that shown in FIGS. 12 to 14. The
sliding handle 254 is configured to wrap around an existing typical
baseball bat 252. However, this embodiment includes a sleeve 256
configured to be wrapped around the handle 258 of the baseball bat
252 and extend from a position at or near the proximal knob 260 of
the bat to the barrel 262. The sleeve 256 in this embodiment
includes a distal cuff 264 and a proximal cuff 266. Optionally, the
proximal end of the sleeve 256 may extend to and abut the distal
end 268 of the knob 260. The handle 254 may include a cylindrical
inner wall 270 forming a central bore. The sleeve 256 is configured
to be substantially flush with the cylindrical inner wall 272. The
inclusion of a sleeve 256 provides a smoother, more fluid sliding
of the handle 254 up and down the longitudinal axis 274 of the bat.
The cuffs 264 and 266 limit the extent to which the handle 254 may
traverse the longitudinal length of the bat 252. The sleeve 256 may
be comprised of two separate sections removably attachable around
the handle 258. The sliding handle 254 may similarly be comprised
of two separate halves hinged on one side and removably attachable
on another in a manner similar to that shown in FIGS. 12-14.
[0086] As with previous embodiments, the sliding handle 254
includes a tympanic panel 272 configured to be substantially
parallel to the distal side 276 of the cuff 266. During a practice
swing, the handle 254 slides in a proximal direction until the
tympanic panel 272 impinges upon the distal side 276 of the cuff
266. The resulting snapping or cracking sound may be amplified by
the proximal annular lip 274. When the tympanic panel 272 impinges
upon the cuff 266, the impact may reverberate throughout the
sliding handle 254 such that the sound is further amplified by the
distal annular lip 278 that forms a distal acoustic chamber
280.
[0087] FIGS. 17 to 21 show another alternative embodiment 300 of a
sliding handle baseball bat in accordance with the principles of
the invention. In this embodiment, two semicircular rails 302
extend between two annular cuffs 304, where each of the cuffs 304
are comprised of two semicircular have this 306. The sliding handle
308 is comprised of two semicircular halves 310 connected by hinges
312 on one side and by a removable locking mechanism 314 on another
side. The handle includes ridges 316 aligned between the rails 302
extending between the cuffs 304. By incorporating ridges 316
sliding longitudinally between rails 302, this embodiment ensures
that the sliding handle 308 may easily move longitudinally in both
directions without any rotational movement. When the distal ends of
the ridges 316 impinge upon the cuffs 304, a sharp sound is
produced and is naturally amplified by the cylindrical inner wall
of the handle 308.
[0088] FIG. 17 shows two sections 310 of the sliding handle 300 in
the open position prior to being wrapped around a baseball bat
handle 330. When the hens 312 is pivoted such that the sections 310
form a circle, the ridges 316 form pairs that fit between the rails
302 extending between the cuffs 304. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional
view showing the positions of the rails 302 between the cuffs 304.
FIG. 20 shows the rails 302 surrounded by the sections 310 of the
sliding handle and the orientation of the rails 302 relative to the
ridges 316.
[0089] FIG. 21 shows a side cross-sectional view of the sliding
handle 300. When the sliding handle 300 and the cuffs 304 have been
wrapped around a baseball bat handle 330, the ridges 316 slide
between the rails 302 along the longitudinal axis 315 of the bat.
When the bat is swung, the proximal ends 336 of the ridges 316
impinge upon the distal sides 338 of the cuffs 304 between the
rails 302. The proximal ends 336 of the ridges 316 and the distal
sides 338 of the cuffs 304 may be preferably configured to be flat
and substantially parallel to one another such that when the ridges
316 impinge upon the cuffs 304 a snapping or cracking sound is
generated. In this embodiment, the space 312 between the handle
sections 310 and the bat handle 330 may act as an acoustic chamber
and amplify the sound.
[0090] Whereas, the present invention has been described in
relation to the drawings attached hereto, it should be understood
that other and further modifications, apart from those shown or
suggested herein, may be made within the spirit and scope of this
invention. Descriptions of the embodiments shown in the drawings
should not be construed as limiting or defining the ordinary and
plain meanings of the terms of the claims unless such is explicitly
indicated.
[0091] As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the
conception, upon which this disclosure is based, may readily be
utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods
and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present
invention. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded
as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not
depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
* * * * *