CRICKET TRAINING KIT DEVICE AND METHOD

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application relates to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. Nos. 63/733,716 and 63/802,897 entitled “CRICKET TRAINING KIT” filed on Dec. 13, 2024, and May 9, 2025, as a non-provisional utility application of the same invention and, to the fullest extent allowable, claims the benefit and priority of the same.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a stationary stand device to aid in training for bat-and-ball games, such as cricket, wherein the user of the device can practice swinging at and striking a ball, such as a cricket ball, with a bat, such as a cricket bat, suspended from a stand. The present invention further relates to improvements upon prior stand training devices, including a base stabilizing unit, training enhancing lighting features, and increased adjustability.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Bat-and-ball games, such as baseball, softball, and cricket, fundamentally involve a player striking a ball with a bat or similar object. Players wishing to succeed in these sports thus aim to develop a high level of accuracy so that they can consistently hit the ball with the necessary force and speed to place it in the desired area in or out of the field.

Obtaining a high level of accuracy when hitting a ball with a bat requires intensive training and practice. Many training devices exist to aid players in their practice. The most basic training aid for new baseball and cricket players is a tee, which allows a ball to be held in a stationary position at the players desired swinging height.

Advanced training devices exist to allow players to move beyond swinging at a stationary ball and begin practicing the skill of hitting a moving ball. Such devices typically involve a ball on a string or tether that allow the player to swing at a ball put into motion at a fixed height.

For example, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2006/0135292 discloses a swing trainer including an overhead horizontal member attached to a vertical shaft which contains a ball permanently affixed to the end. U.S. Pat. No. 6,790,150 describes a device having an overhead horizontally extending pipe from which a removeable ball is suspended on a rope. Such devices are large and typically intended to be permanently fixed in a training facility.

Other prior art exists describing swing training devices that are more portable and adjustable, such as U.S. Pat. No. 8,033,934 (Clancy), wherein the device is collapsible and portable, having a vertical member attached to a horizontal member from which a ball is suspended on a tether. Clancy also describes a device that can be converted into a tee to allow development through different levels of skill.

Further, U.S. Pat. No. 8,784,240 (Buono) discloses a swing training device having a vertical member connected to a horizontal member wherein a ball is magnetically connected to a line suspended from the horizontal member. This device allows the user to practice hitting the ball with enough force and speed to detach it from the line.

While these devices achieve their purpose, none offer users a combination of portability and stability. Further, most must be used outdoors or in a large indoor sport facility during the daytime. None also offer first time users a method of using the device without a personal trainer skilled in the sport by including with the device a training aid in the form of a video, which may also include written materials.

What is needed is a swing training device that is both portable and highly stable, adjustable to a user's height and skill level, able to be used during daytime or nighttime, and able to be used indoors or outdoors.

Further, a method of using the device is needed for unskilled users, beginners, intermediates, and advanced players.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention comprises a cricket swing training device. The cricket training device includes a stand supporting a tethered ball at a height for practicing batting. The device is portable and may be used indoors or outdoors. The device can be used by a user alone or with a coach or other secondary user to aid in the training and increase the level of difficulty.

The device further includes lighting features to allow for use at night. The lighting features may include LED lights along the top portion of the stand, a glow in the dark ball or tether, and LED lights illuminating the base portion of the device.

The base portion of the device may comprise a hallow container capable of holding an adequate amount of water to stabilize the device. The base potion may be otherwise weighted with fillable material, such as sand or fine gravel.

The device may further include a means for adjusting the height of the stand, such as slotted pins. The cricket training device is beneficial to the user by providing an improved portable training device for improving skills and techniques of bat-and-ball games.

The device may additionally be manufactured at a size and weight that is suitable for the age and skill of the user, such as youth, intermediate, and adult sizes.

The device may additionally comprise a back-stopping net, an extendable top arm, a rotating dial for ball height adjustment, rotating feet suitable for either indoor or outdoor use, an integrated handle for easy break down and carry, and attachable should strap.

The device may additionally comprise a flexible shock damping portion in its top arm for reduced vibration and increased stability.

An embodiment of the device may also be tailored to youth users with features available for a secondary user, such as a coach, like a tilting horizontal arm for more complex swing practice. Such embodiment may also be smaller and lighter for easier carry by younger users.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are incorporated herein and constitute a part of this specification. Such drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of certain embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a front angle perspective of an embodiment of the invention in its fully extended state.

FIG. 2 is a bottom-up view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a close of view of an embodiment of an attachment means connecting the upper and lower shaft pieces, which is a tension collar secured by a screw in this embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a close up view of the base portion of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a close up view of the upper shaft and horizontal arm member of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention wherein the upper shaft is collapsed into the lower shaft.

FIG. 7 is an angle view of an embodiment of the invention wherein the upper shaft is collapsed into the lower shaft.

FIG. 8 is a top-down view of an embodiment of the invention wherein the upper shaft is collapsed into the lower shaft.

FIG. 9 is an alternative view of an embodiment of the invention in its fully extended state.

FIG. 10 is an alternative angled view of an embodiment of the invention in its fully extended state.

FIG. 11 is a top-down view of an embodiment of the invention in its fully extended state.

FIG. 12 is a front view of the base of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 is an angled view of the base of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the base of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 is a side view of the shaft connector means and horizontal arm connector means of an embodiment of the invention in its collapsed state.

FIG. 16 is a top view of the shaft connector means and horizontal arm connector means of an embodiment of the invention in its collapsed state.

FIG. 17 is a front view the shaft connector means and horizontal arm connector means of an embodiment of the invention in its collapsed state.

FIG. 18 is an angled view the shaft connector means and horizontal arm connector means of an embodiment of the invention in its collapsed state.

FIG. 19 is a top angled view of the ground attachment means suitable for connection to the legs'feet in an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 20 is a bottom angled view of the ground attachment means suitable for connection to the legs'feet in an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 21 is an alternative front view of an embodiment of the invention in its collapsed state.

FIG. 22 is an alternative top view of an embodiment of the invention in its collapsed state.

FIG. 23 is an alternative angled view of an embodiment of the invention in its collapsed state.

FIG. 24 is an alternative front view of an embodiment of the invention in its extended state.

FIG. 25 is an alternative angled view of an embodiment of the invention in its extended state.

FIG. 26 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention in its extended state.

FIG. 27 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention in its extended state including a backstop net.

FIG. 28 a front view of an embodiment of the invention in its extended state including a backstop net with its horizontal arm fully extended.

FIG. 29 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention with a disclaimed figure of a person rotating the rotating dial.

FIG. 30 is a cut away view of an embodiment of the rotating dial and extended spool.

FIG. 31 is a cut away view of an embodiment of the rotatable feet.

FIG. 32 is a cut away view of an embodiment of the horizontal arm including the shock absorber.

FIG. 33 is a front angle view of an embodiment of the invention in its fully collapsed state including a shoulder strap.

FIG. 34 is a front angle view of an embodiment of the invention in its fully collapsed state including a shoulder strap displayed on a disclaimed figure of a person.

FIG. 35 is an alternative front angle view of an embodiment of the invention in its extended state.

FIG. 36 is an alternative front angle view of an embodiment of the invention in its extended state including a disclaimed figure of a person.

FIG. 37 is a cut away view of an embodiment of the rotatable feet.

FIG. 38 is a front angle view of two embodiments of the invention in their extended states.

FIG. 39 is an alternative front angle view of an embodiment of the invention in its extended state.

FIG. 40 is an alternative front angle view of an embodiment of the invention in its extended state including a disclaimed figure of a person.

FIG. 41 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention in its extended state including a backstop net.

FIG. 42 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention with a disclaimed figure of a person using a slidable ball height adjustment mechanism.

FIG. 43 is a cutaway view of an embodiment of the slidable ball height adjustment mechanism.

FIG. 44 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention with disclaimed figures of persons utilizing the handle tilt joint mechanism.

FIG. 45 is an alternative front view of an embodiment of the invention in its extended state.

FIG. 46 is a cutaway view of an embodiment of the horizontal arm including opposing hooks for winding the tether.

FIG. 47 is an embodiment of the invention in its fully extended, fully collapsed, and hand carry states, with a disclaimed figure of a person.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Before turning to the figures which illustrate the exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the application is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the following description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

The present invention comprises a cricket training device having a base, at least one vertical member connected to the base, at least one horizontal member or arm connected to the vertical member, a tether attached to and hanging from the horizontal member, and a ball attached to the tether.

In at least one embodiment of the invention, the device additionally comprises a backstop net to control heavy hitting and errant ball swinging wherein the net is triangular in shape and attached by loops or other fastener means at its corners to the feet and horizontal bar member on the side of the device facing the user.

In at least one embodiment of the invention, the horizontal arm is extendable for personalized adjustment. Such extension may be telescopic and secured by tension or holes and pins.

In at least one embodiment of the invention, the horizontal arm additional comprises a rotating dial at its distal end for ball height adjustment whereby the dial rotates a spool that either raises or lowers the tether or string attached to the ball, thus raising or lowering the ball. Such rotating dial and spool may be removeable from the horizontal arm and able to recede into and be secured into the horizontal arm.

In at least one embodiment of the invention, the base of the device is comprised of at least two legs extending outward from the vertical member at angles providing overall stability for the fully extended device. The vertical member may also be supported by at least two support arms securely connected to the legs on one end and connected to the vertical member on the other end, whereby the connection point is a collar that wraps around the vertical member and is able to slide as needed to adjust to the correct angle. In some embodiments, said collar may also include a handle for easy carrying when the device is collapsed. In some embodiments, said legs further comprise feet at their distal ends. Said feet may be rotatable wherein one side of the foot provides a high angle grip suitable for indoor or on carpet and the other side of the foot provides a low angle grip suitable for outdoor or on grass. Said feet may also include a hole through the foot to allow for a stake, which can provide extra stability when the device is used on grass or other soft ground.

In at least one embodiment of the invention, the horizontal arms additionally includes a shock damping portion made of plastic, hardened rubber, or other durable but flexible material, in an alternating pinch pattern. Such shock damping portion is preferably placed near the distal end of the horizontal arm and is able to dampen vibration to improve the overall stability of the device.

In at least one embodiment of the invention, the device includes and attachable shoulder strap for easy carrying when collapsed. Said shoulder strap is attached to the device at the base on one end and at the mid-point collar of the vertical member on the other end. Such strap may be made of nylon tether or other suitable material and may include a padded shoulder portion. Such padded shoulder portion may also include an integrated clip or pocket for ball storage.

FIGS. 1 through 11 show one embodiment of the invention comprising a base portion having at least three legs connected to a lower vertical shaft capable of receiving an upper vertical shaft, the vertical shafts connected to each other by an attachment means that is a tension collar secured by a screw, the upper vertical shaft being connected by an attachment means to a horizontal arm portion, the horizontal arm portion capable of securing a tether at its distal end.

FIGS. 12 through 14 show one embodiment of the base portion of the invention having at least three legs connected to a central hallow container via a connector means, which may be a screw with a tightening grip or a pin.

FIGS. 15 through 18 show one embodiment of a connector means of the invention able to secure and attach the lower and upper vertical shafts in the invention's collapsed or extended states, which is a tension collar secured by a screw with a tightening grip or gear. FIGS. 15 through 18 also show a connector means of the invention able to secure and attach the upper vertical shaft to the horizontal arm and also have a vertically aligned tension collar piece allowing adjustment of the distal length of the horizontal arm.

FIGS. 19 and 20 show a means for attaching the feet of one embodiment of the invention to the ground or floor of the user's area to allow for secure, safe and effective use, which may be a hook-and-loop (i.e. “Velcro”) clip for use in a carpeted area, or a lawn staple clip having a plurality of holes capable of receiving a lawn staple or u-clip.

FIGS. 21 through 23 show one embodiment of the invention incorporating the elements of FIGS. 12 through 20 in its collapsed state.

FIGS. 24 through 25 show one embodiment of the invention incorporating the elements of FIGS. 12 through 20 in its extended state.

FIG. 26 shows one embodiment of the invention having two legs 2601 supported by feet 2602 and support members 2612, the support members being attached to a sliding and locking mechanism 2604 attached to the vertical member 2611. Such sliding mechanism 2604 may also include a handle portion. The device may include a shoulder strap 2603 connected at the base and extension point 2605 of the vertical member 2611. At the distal end of the vertical member there is a joint mechanism 2606 connected to the horizontal arm 2607, which may include a shock absorber portion 2608 and a rotating dial 2609 for winding up or extending the tether 2610 connected to the ball 2613.

FIGS. 27 and 28 are alternative views of an embodiment of the invention included a backstop net 2701 connected to the joint mechanism and two of the feet by loops, ties, or other attachment means, including hook-and-loop (i.e. “Velcro”) straps. FIG. 28 specifically shows an embodiment of the horizontal arm in its fully extended state 2801, allowing for more distance for the user to swing at the ball.

FIGS. 29 and 30 show an embodiment of the rotating dial, wherein FIG. 29 a user is using the dial to wind up or extend the tether and ball. FIG. 30 shows the rotating dial 3001 can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise to raise or lower the tether and may be pulled distally outward to reveal an internal spool 3002.

FIG. 31 shows an embodiment of the feet, which have high grip orientation 3101 and lower grip orientation 3102, reversible by pinching locking pins and rotating the foot about the leg. The feet additional include a stake point 3103 for additional stability in outdoor environments.

FIG. 32 shows an embodiment of the horizontal arm having a shock absorber portion 3201 made of rubber, silicon, or other rigid yet flexible material capable of dampening vibration from movement of the tether.

FIGS. 33 and 34 show an embodiment of the invention in its fully collapsed state having an adjustable shoulder strap 2603 with a padded portion and a ball carrier 3301 on said padded portion, which may be a pocket attached to the padded portion of the shoulder strap.

FIGS. 35 and 36 show an embodiment of the invention having alternative legs and feet 3501.

FIG. 37 shows an embodiment of the feet 3701 which have high grip orientation and lower grip orientation, reversible by pinching locking pins and rotating the foot about the leg. The feet additional include a stake point for additional stability in outdoor environments.

FIG. 38 shows alternative embodiments of the invention in both adult and youth sizes.

FIGS. 39 and 40 show an embodiment of the invention tailored for youth users having three legs 3906 arranged to support a central base with additional support members 3905. The central base supports a vertical member 3907 having a central locking and extension point 3904. The vertical member 3901 is connected by a joint and tilt mechanism 3903 to a horizontal arm 3902, wherein the joint and tilt mechanism 3903 may have a handle. A ball and tether extend from the distal end point 3901 of the horizontal arm 3902.

FIG. 41 shows an embodiment of an embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 39-40 including a backstop net 4101.

FIGS. 42 and 43 show a slide mechanism 4301 of the horizontal arm including a hook for attachment of the tether. Sliding the slide mechanism can raise or lower the tether and ball.

FIG. 44 shows use of the joint and tilt mechanism handle 4401, whereby a secondary user can adjust the height and angle of the horizontal arm while the primary user swings at the ball.

FIGS. 45 and 46 show a winding mechanism 4501 for storage of excess tether comprised of two opposing hooks capable of receiving the tether in a continuous looping motion.

FIG. 47 is a comprehensive view of a youth oriented embodiment of the invention in its fully extended state, its fully collapsed state, and its model carry state.

The base can preferably be made to have a hallow container capable of holding water or other fillable material and at least three legs protruding from the container, each having a foot providing friction with the ground or floor. Each leg may be connected to the base with a hinge or other attachment means allowing the legs to fold upward when the device is collapsed for portability or storage. Each leg may consist of at least two hallow shafts, an inner shaft connected to the base and capable of receiving an outer shaft, and an outer shaft capable of fitting inside the inner shaft. The inner and outer shaft are adjustable to allow the legs to be of various lengths necessary to create stability for the device. The inner shaft and outer shaft contain a plurality of holes or slots aligned vertically and capable of receiving pins or pegs. The inner shaft and outer shaft of each leg are fixed together by at least one pin or peg received by the aligned holes or slots of the inner shaft and outer shaft.

The top of the base's hollow container contains a hole capable of receiving a vertical body first having a hallow lower vertical shaft. Said lower vertical shaft contains a plurality of holes or slots aligned vertically and capable of receiving pins or pegs. The top of the vertical shaft has an opening capable of receiving another hallow upper vertical shaft. This upper vertical shaft contains a plurality of holes or slots aligned vertically and capable of receiving pins or pegs. The lower and upper vertical shafts are adjustable to allow the full vertical shaft to reach various heights. The lower and upper shafts are fixed together by at least one pin received by the aligned holes or slots of the lower and upper shaft.

The lower and upper shafts may be fixed together by an attachment means, such as a tension collar secured by a fastener, such as a pin or a screw.

The top of the upper shaft contains an attachment means secured to the upper shaft. The attachment means contains a hole capable of receiving a hallow or solid horizontal arm member. The horizontal arm member is affixed to the attachment means by a temporary fastener, such as a pin, peg, or a screw. In some embodiments, the attachment means of the horizontal arm member contains a tension collar allowing for adjustment of the distal length of the horizontal arm member, which may be secured by a pin or a screw. The horizontal arm member contains at its distal end and end piece permanently fixed to the horizontal arm member. The end piece contains at least one hole or slot protruding from the underside of the horizontal arm member.

The hole or slot of the end piece is capable of receiving a rope, tether, string, line, or other flexible hanging means. The hanging means is attached to the horizontal arm member via the hole or slot and is secured with a knot, nut, stopper, or other means, incapable of fitting through the hole or slot.

The hanging means is attached to a ball at its terminal end. The ball is permanently affixed to the hanging means, or is secured to the hanging means with a fastener, such as a clip, a screw, or a loop and knot.

The legs, including the inner and outer shafts, and the vertical body, including the lower and upper vertical shaft, may be collapsible for increased portability and storage.

In at least one embodiment of the invention, the feet of the legs will include means for attachment to the ground or floor of the user's area to allow for increased stability, safety, and effectiveness. Such ground attachment means may be a hook-and-loop (i.e. “Velcro”) clip for use in a carpeted area, or a lawn staple clip having a plurality of holes capable of receiving a lawn staple or u-clip. Such ground attachment means may be permanently fixed to the feet and legs or be removeable and interchangeable to allow for a wide range of use areas.

In at least one embodiment of the invention, the attachment means of the horizontal arm member contains a hinge at the point of attachment to the upper vertical shaft, which is secured by a pin, peg, or screw. When unsecured, the hinge allows the horizontal arm member to fold downward toward the vertical body, allowing for increased portability and storage.

In another embodiment of the invention, the base contains at least one spout and at least one cap on the upper portion of the hallow container capable of receiving and dispensing a liquid, such as water, or fine material, such as sand or gravel, said liquid or fine material giving the base weight and providing overall stability for the cricket training device.

In another embodiment of the invention, the base contains at least one drain and at least one cap or stopper on the lower potion of the hallow container capable of dispensing the liquid or fine material.

In another embodiment of the invention, the lower vertical shaft and upper vertical shaft are attached via a tension collar, said tension collar having a hole capable of receiving a tightening screw. When the tension collar is tightened with the tightening screw, the lower vertical shaft and upper vertical shaft are stably fixed at a user's desired height.

In at least one embodiment of the invention, the cricket training devices contains multiple lighting features, allowing use of the device outdoors at night or in a darkened interior space. Said lighting fixatures may include LED lights attached to the horizontal arm member, directing the light downward toward the ball. LED lights may also be attached to the base and legs, directing light upward toward the ball and outward onto the ground or floor. LED lights may also be attached to the vertical body, directing light outward toward the ball and swinging area under the horizontal arm. Such LED lights may be battery powered and may be controlled by a remote control and wireless receiver, or a switch on the base or vertical body. Said battery may be contained within the hallow portions of the device or housed externally and affixed to the base or vertical body.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, the hanging means may be made of, contain, or be wrapped in a fabric or fibers dyed with photoluminescent materials capable of glowing in the dark so that the hanging means can be seen by a user outdoors at nighttime or in a darkened room.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, the ball may be made of, contain, or be wrapped in a fabric or fibers dyed with photoluminescent materials capable of glowing in the dark do that the ball can be seen by a user outdoors at nighttime or in a darkened room.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, all components will be made of a lightweight and strong material, such as hardened plastic, aluminum or other metal alloy, or carbon fiber, and any resulting embodiment may contain any combination thereof for various components.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, all components may be manufactured from additive or subtractive manufacturing methods, including without limitation stereolithography and other 3-D printing methods.

Some embodiments of the invention may be customized to meet the specific needs of certain age ranges and skill levels, such as child (i.e. “toy”), youth, intermediate, and adult. Such customization would alter the overall size and weight of the embodiment, allowing for shorter or taller heights and the capacity to withstand various forces of use.

An embodiment customized for children and youth may be comprised of or encased in softer materials for improved safety during use. Such an embodiment would utilize a ball comprised of soft material such as foam for improved safety during use.

While the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures and described herein are presently preferred, it should be understood that these embodiments are offered by way of example only. Accordingly, the present application is not limited to a particular embodiment, but extends to various modifications that nevertheless fall within the scope of the appended claims. The order or sequence of any processes or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments.

It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the cricket training device as shown in the various exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited in the claims. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present application. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. In the claims, any means-plus-function clause is intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present application.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing the particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this written description, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.