PITCHING PRACTICE APPARATUS AND RELATED METHODS

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present application relates generally to a sports training apparatus. More particularly, the application relates to a throwing practice apparatus that is easy to assembly and robust, and that allows a person to practice throwing accuracy without assistance, and methods of using the same.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A key skill in baseball, softball, cricket, football, and relating sports is throwing accuracy. Particularly in the case of baseball and softball pitches, accuracy and consistency of pitches are of critical importance. Pitch location practice is a crucial part of a pitcher's training and development. Training tools for training pitching accuracy are often cumbersome to move and assemble.

Many pitching targets that are presently available also tend to succumb to wear and tear fairly rapidly. The durability of pitching targets is a critical factor for long-term usability. Many current designs lack robust construction and fail to withstand the repetitive impact of high-velocity pitches. Many existing pitching targets use netting as a backing to the target for stopping the ball. The netting commonly breaks down and fails. Such targets do not include features that allow them to withstand the force of repeated impacts from fast-moving baseballs or softballs. As a result, frequent replacements or repairs are necessary, leading to increased costs and inconvenience for users.

Many existing pitching target designs involve intricate assembly procedures, making them time-consuming and labor-intensive to set up. This complexity can discourage frequent usage, reducing the opportunities for consistent training.

Existing pitching target designs also have limitations with regard to stability. Many current pitching targets are prone to tipping over or shifting during intense training sessions, which can disrupt the pitcher's focus and disrupt a session. Furthermore, their instability can lead to safety concerns, such as potential injury from falling equipment.

Portability is a further issue with existing throwing and pitching target designs. The portability of pitching targets is often overlooked in existing designs. Some targets are bulky and challenging to transport, limiting their use to specific locations. This restricts training opportunities for players who require the flexibility to practice in different environments, both indoors and outdoors.

Considering these drawbacks, it is evident that there is a clear need for an improved baseball pitching target that addresses the aforementioned limitations. The present invention seeks to overcome these challenges by introducing a novel design that offers enhanced durability, stability, portability, and ease of setup.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present application is directed to a throwing or pitching target. The proposed baseball pitching target, as detailed in the accompanying patent application, features a stable base (e.g., having a polygonal base, an H-shaped base, or other appropriate base design), removable wheels for portability, an upright frame that holds the pitching target, flexing shock-absorbing springs connecting the upright frame to the stable base, at least one vertical frame member in the upright frame, at least one removable cross member in the upright frame, and a net with vertical and horizontal sleeves operable to be connected to the upright frame. These components work together to provide a stable and portable target, capable of withstanding high-velocity pitches while easily set up and repair.

The foundation of the pitching target is a base structure having a foot print in a range of about 5 square feet to about 8 square feet. The combination of the base shape design and the inclusion of shock-absorbing springs between the base and the upright frame allows the base to have a reduced footprint without the pitching target tipping over or being displaced during use. The design ensures that the target remains steady during practice sessions. The base may have a polygonal shape (e.g., rectangular, square, pentagon, etc.), a polygonal shape with radiating elements (e.g., a square or rectangle with radiating arms, similar to a Maltese cross), an H shape, a cross shape, or other stable base shape. Additionally, the base incorporates at least two removable wheels, allowing for easy transportation and positioning on various playing surfaces. The portability of the target enables flexibility in training scenarios, facilitating use both indoors and outdoors.

To enhance the target's durability and absorb the impact of pitched balls, at least one damping or shock-absorbing spring may be positioned vertically and connect the based to the upright frame. A plurality of vertically oriented shock-absorbing springs or one or more vertically-oriented springs and other pivoting structures (e.g., hinges) may be connect the base to the upright frame. The springs serve as a damping and cushioning mechanism, absorbing the energy of the thrown ball hitting the target, thereby preventing the pitching target from tipping over and reducing the strain on the target when hit by high-velocity pitches. As a result, the target can withstand the repetitive impact, prolonging its lifespan and reducing the need for frequent replacement of the net.

The target may include two cross member between the vertical members of the frame, which form two sides of a rectangular frame for securing a net for the pitching target. At least one of the crossmembers (e.g., the top cross member) may be removable to allow the net to be attached and removed for easy assembly. In some embodiments, both cross members may be removable to allow sleeves in the net to be positioned over both the vertical members and the cross members.

The net used in this pitching target is specially crafted to facilitate easy assembly and replacement when needed. It features two vertical sleeves that pass over the two upright members of the base, ensuring proper alignment and stability. The net also incorporates two horizontal sleeves through which the removable cross members are inserted. The cross members are inserted through horizontal sleeves located on the net, serving as the horizontal boundaries of the target. After placement in the horizontal sleeves, the cross members are connected to the upright members of the base. The upright members may have two sets of assembly holes positioned along their lengths that serve as connection points for both the upper and lower the crossmembers. The assembly holes may be positioned such that the upper and lower crossmembers frame the net and hold it in the proper vertical positions. The crossmembers may have corresponding receiver holes in each end thereof that are alignable with the assembly holes of the upright members. The crossmembers may be connected to the upright members after alignment by a fixation element, such as a nut and bolt combination or locking pin (e.g., a quick release pin, a Clevis pin, a Lynch pin, or other appropriate locking pin design) that is passed through the assembly holes and the receiver holes of the crossmember and holds the crossmember in alignment with the assembly holes of the upright members. The net is properly positioned in the frame when the upright members are positioned in the vertical sleeves of the net, the upper and lower crossmembers are positioned in the horizontal sleeves of the net, and the crossmembers are aligned with the assembly holes and fixed in position by fixation elements inserted through the assembly holes and into the receiver holes at each end of the cross member. The vertical and horizontal sleeves secure the net in place, preventing unwanted movement during use. The net is held secure in the desired position, forming a rectangular shape within the target frame.

In some embodiments, the net may be structured to be taut when installed in the frame. In other embodiments, the net may be structured to have some slack and looseness to add damping and cushioning when a ball strikes the net at high velocity. In further embodiments, the net may have a closed or open-ended tunnel-like structure that allows the balls pitched into the net to be collected at or near a distal end of the tunnel-like structure. In embodiments having an open tunnel-like structure, the balls may be easily retrieved from the open distal end of the tunnel-like structure of the net.

The throwing target described above offers several advantages over prior designs. The base with removable wheels provides stability and portability, allowing for easy setup and repositioning. The shock absorbing springs help minimize the impact on the target, ensuring its longevity and durability. The removable cross member(s) and the net with vertical and horizontal sleeves enable precise positioning and a secure fit that prevents failure and reduces wear and tear on the net. Collectively, these features contribute to a reliable and effective training tool, providing athletes (e.g., pitchers) with a reliable and durable practice tool.

It is an aspect of the present invention to provide a throwing target that can be assembled simply and efficiently.

It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide a throwing target that is durable and requires infrequent repair.

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a throwing target having a target net that is secured to the pitching target reliably and that can be quickly and efficiently replaced.

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a method of assembling a pitching target that is simple and quick to execute, requiring minimal or no tools.

Further aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those having skill in the art from the description and disclosure provided herein.

The above-described objects, advantages, and features of the invention, together with the organization and manner of operation thereof, will become apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like elements have like numerals throughout the several drawings described herein. Further benefits and other advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent from the detailed description of the preferred embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a throwing target, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 provides a back view of a throwing target, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 provides a front view of a throwing target, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 provides a side view of a throwing target, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 provides a side view of a throwing target, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 provides a top view of a throwing target, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 provides a bottom view of a throwing target, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 provides a perspective view of a throwing target, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 provides a back view of a throwing target, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 provides a front view of a throwing target, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 provides a side view of a sear component of an airsoft handgun, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 provides a side view of a throwing target, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 provides a top view of a throwing target, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 provides a back view of a throwing target, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 provides an exploded view of a throwing target, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to certain embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the invention will be described in reference to these embodiments, it will be understood that they are not intended to limit the invention. To the contrary, the invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents that are included within the spirit and scope of the invention. In the following disclosure, specific details are given to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without all of the specific details provided.

The present invention concerns throwing targets that provide several advantages. The throwing targets include a base with removable wheels provides stability and portability, allowing for easy setup and repositioning, shock-absorbing springs help minimize the impact on the target, ensuring its longevity and durability, removable frame elements that allow for quick and efficient installation of a target net, and a target net with vertical and horizontal sleeves enable precise positioning and a secure fit that prevents failure and reduces wear and tear on the net. Collectively, these features contribute to a reliable and effective training tool, providing athletes with a reliable and durable practice tool.

FIGS. 1-15 provides views of the throwing target structure 100. FIGS. 1-7 illustrate the construction of the frame 104, the base 101, and the connecting springs 103a, 103b and frame support bar 109 that form the pitching target structure 100 that enables ease of assembly and durability. The target comprises an H-shaped base 101, with the two arms 101a and 101b connected by central member 101c that together form a stable structure in a relatively small footprint. Arm 101b of the base 101 is equipped with a set of receivers 102a and 102b for receiving removable wheels 110a and 110b (see FIGS. 8-15). The wheels 110a and 110b enable the target to be conveniently moved to various locations. The attachment of wheels 110a and 110b allow for easy transportation and positioning of the target 100.

The base 101 has a shape design that provides stability in a relatively small footprint. The base 101 may have a polygonal shape (e.g., rectangular, square, pentagon, etc.), a polygonal shape with radiating elements (e.g., a square or rectangle with radiating arms, similar to a Maltese cross), an H shape, a cross shape, or other stable base shape. In the examples shown in FIGS. 1-5, the base has an H-shape. The base includes two side members 101a and 101b connected by a cross-member 101c. The base may be comprised of rigid material, such as a light weight metal (e.g., steel, aluminum, or other appropriate material).

Additionally, the base 101 incorporates at least one wheel receiver for connected to at least one removable wheel for transporting the target. The example shown in FIGS. 1-15 includes wheel receivers 102a and 102b, which may be cylindrical sleeves into which axles of the removable wheels can be pressure fitted. The removable wheels 110a and 110b may have bushings (e.g., comprising nylon, urethane, or other relatively smooth, rigid) that surround the axles of the removable wheel, can be pressure fit into the wheel receivers 102a and 102b, and allow the axles to spin with little friction. The removable wheels may have a diameter in a range of about 3 inches to about 6 inches to allow for easy rolling on various playing surfaces.

The damping springs 103a and 103b may be connected to the cross member 101c of base 101 and may oriented vertically and secured to cross-member 101c by bolts that mate with a complementary receiver (e.g., a nut) in the inferior portion of the spring. The damping springs 103a and 103b may be connected to the frame 104 through support member 109 by bolts that mate with a complementary receiver (e.g., a nut) in the superior portion of the spring. The inclusion of damping springs 103a and 103b between the base 101 and the upright frame 104 allows the base 101 to have a reduced footprint without the pitching target tipping over or being displaced during use. The damping springs also serve to absorb the impact force generated by high velocity impacts, minimizing potential damage to the target and enhancing durability.

The frame 104 may include two cross member 106a and 106b between the vertical members 105a and 105b, which together form a rectangular frame for securing a net for the pitching target. At least one of the crossmembers (e.g., the top cross member) may be removable to allow the net to be attached and removed for easy assembly. In the example shown in FIGS. 1-15, both cross members 106a and 106b may be removable to allow sleeves in the net to be positioned over both the vertical members 105a, 105b and the crossmembers 106a, 106b. The vertical members 105a and 105b may have two sets of assembly holes positioned along their lengths that serve as connection points for both the upper and lower the crossmembers. The vertical members include an aligned upper set of assembly holes 117a and 117b and a lower set of assembly holes 118a and 118b. The assembly holes may be positioned such that the upper crossmember 106a and lower crossmember 106b frame the net 120 and hold it in the proper vertical positions. The crossmembers 106a, 106b may have corresponding receiver holes in each end thereof that are alignable with the assembly holes of the upright members.

The upper crossmember 106a may have receivers in each end thereof that are alignable with the upper assembly holes 117a and 117b. The upper crossmember 106a may be connected to the upper assembly holes 117a and 117b by fixation elements 107a and 107b. The fixation elements 107a, 107b may be a nut and bolt combination or locking pin (e.g., a quick release pin, a Clevis pin, a Lynch pin, or other appropriate locking pin design) that is passed through the assembly holes 117a and 117b and the receiver holes of the crossmember 106a and holds the crossmember 106a in alignment with the assembly holes 117a and 117b.

The lower crossmember 106b may have receivers in each end thereof that are alignable with the lower assembly holes 118a and 118b. The lower crossmember 106b may be connected to the lower assembly holes 118a and 118b by fixation elements 108a and 108b. The fixation elements 108a, 108b may be a nut and bolt combination or locking pin (e.g., a quick release pin, a Clevis pin, a Lynch pin, or other appropriate locking pin design) that is passed through the assembly holes 118a and 118b and the receiver holes of the crossmember 106b and holds the crossmember 106b in alignment with the assembly holes 118a and 118b.

The net structure 120 (see FIGS. 9, 11, and 15) may comprise a durable and flexible material, such as nylon, high density polyethylene, and/or other appropriate materials. The net structure 120 features two vertical sleeves 122a and 122b that are passed over the vertical members 105a and 105b, respectively. Additionally, the net structure 120 has an upper horizontal sleeve 121a and a lower horizontal sleeve 121b through which the removable cross members 106a and 106b may be inserted, respectively. The horizontal sleeves 121a and 121b and vertical sleeves 122a and 122b may comprise a durable and flexible material, such as nylon, high density polyethylene, and/or other appropriate materials. Once inserted, the cross members 106a and 106b may be securely attached to the vertical members 105a and 105b, forming a rectangular frame 104 that holds the net 120 in place. This configuration provides a well-defined throwing target (e.g., a practice strike zone) and facilitates easy replacement or adjustment of the net 120 when necessary.

The net 120 features two vertical sleeves 122a and 122b that pass over the two vertical members 105a and 105b, ensuring proper alignment and stability. The net 120 also incorporates two horizontal sleeves 121a and 121b through which the removable cross members are inserted. The cross members 106a and 106b are inserted through horizontal sleeves 121a and 121b located on the net 120, serving as the horizontal boundaries of the target. Theses features allow the net 120 is properly positioned in the frame 104 and secured in place, preventing unwanted movement during use. The net 120 is held secure in the desired position, forming a rectangular shape within the target frame 104.

In some embodiments, the net 120 may be structured to be taut when installed in the frame (see, e.g., FIGS. 9 and 15). In other embodiments, the net 120 may be structured to have some slack and looseness to add damping and cushioning when a ball strikes the net at high velocity (see, e.g., FIG. 11). In further embodiments, the net 120 may have a closed or open-ended tunnel-like structure that allows the balls pitched into the net to be collected at or near a distal end of the tunnel-like structure.

The present invention includes a method of assembling a pitching target structure 100 that incorporates the components described above and shown in FIGS. 1-15. The horizontal crossmembers 106a and 106b may be inserted into the horizontal sleeves 121a and 121b, respectively, to prepare the net 120 for coupling to the vertical members 105a and 105b. The vertical sleeves 122a and 122b may be passed over the vertical members 105a and 105b positioning the net 120 thereon. The net 120 may be positioned such that (1) the crossmember 106a is aligned with the alignment holes 117a and 117b allowing the fixation elements 107a and 107b can be inserted through the alignment holes 117a and 117b and the receivers in the ends of the crossmember 106a, and (2) the crossmember 106b is aligned with the alignment holes 118a and 118b allowing the fixation elements 108a and 108b can be inserted through the alignment holes 118a and 118b and the receivers in the ends of the crossmember 106b. The frame 104 can thereby be constructed with the net 120 reliably and securely attached to the frame 104 without risk that the net 120 being dislodged from the frame, even with repeated high velocity impacts by a ball thrown by an athlete (e.g., a baseball).

After prolonged use of the net 120, the net 120 may sustain wear and tear warranting replacement. The net 120 can be replaced by reversing the steps of the assembly to remove the crossmembers 106a and 106b from the vertical members 105a and 105b, remove the crossmembers 106a and 106b from the worn net 120, inserting the crossmembers 106a and 106b into a new net 120, sliding the vertical sleeves 122a and 122b over the vertical members 105a and 105b, and connecting the crossmembers 106a and 106b to the vertical members 105a and 105b to reform the frame 104 with the new net 120 attached thereto.

It is to be understood that variations, modifications, and permutations of embodiments of the present invention, and uses thereof, may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. It is also to be understood that the present invention is not limited by the specific embodiments, descriptions, or illustrations or combinations of either components or steps disclosed herein. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Although reference has been made to the accompanying figures, it is to be appreciated that these figures are exemplary and are not meant to limit the scope of the invention. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claims appended hereto and their equivalents.