Abstract: A ball tossing apparatus includes a support frame and a plurality of launch devices fixed to the support frame and arranged in a two-dimensional array. The launch devices include cylinders having a spring fixed therein, with a ball carrier fixed to the spring. The balls are retained in a loaded position (springs compressed) and then upon activation of the launch devices are launched vertically into the air to the sports player. In another embodiment, the launch devices include a rotating lever which is acted on by a biasing member to launch the ball vertically from the cylinder. A method for launching the balls includes the steps of loading the balls into a two dimensional array, and then launching the balls according to a launch sequence. An electronic control system for use with the ball tossing apparatus includes a launch module for launching the loaded balls in the plurality of launch devices according to a launch sequence.

Abstract: A machine for tossing or set ting a volleyball into the air, to aid in practice of spiking the ball, includes a cylindrical housing with a ball exit opening at one end, with legs to set the housing on the ground with the exit opening facing upward. A ball support cup with attached rod is slidably supported in the housing by a linear bearing. The ball support cup is spring biased toward the exit end; a brake prevents the rod from passing completely through the bearing. The lower end of the rod includes teeth which are engageable with a sprocket wheel of a timer assembly. When a ball is placed on the support cup, and the cup is pushed down, the teeth will engage the sprocket wheel to activate the timer; after a time, the sprocket wheel will disengage from the teeth, allowing the spring to move the support cup upward to launch the ball through the exit opening.

Abstract: A bowstring release apparatus for use with a bowstring affixed to a bow is disclosed. The bowstring release apparatus comprises an activation switch connected to a timing device which in turn is connected to a release mechanism. Actuation of the activation switch initiates a time period whose length is established by the timing device. The release mechanism releases the secured bowstring after expiration of the time period. Additionally, a method for improving the shooting accuracy of an archer by providing a bow, a bowstring affixed to the bow, an arrow and a bowstring release apparatus is disclosed. The method includes the archer drawing the bowstring and activating an activation switch. After completion of a time period, the bowstring will automatically be released. The duration of the time period is determined by a timing device which is responsive to the activating of the activation switch.

Abstract: Controllable response toy systems in which the response is delayed by a suitable interval. A toy is set for action by the manipulation of one of its members, such as an arm. The arm thereafter moves spontaneously from the set position, after a suitable interval, and brings about a desired action, such as the throwing of a ball. When the interval resulting from the setting action is variable, the toy gives the appearance of deciding on its own when to take action.

Abstract: A game apparatus for a number of players. A plurality of pivoting paddles or catapult levers are radially disposed about a mounting base which has a centrally located upright cylinder or chimney. A catapult portion of each paddle extends into one of a plurality of compartments in the lower portion of the chimney. One or more balls are disposed within the chimney and rest upon one of the catapult portions. The location of the balls within the chimney is unknown to the players. The players singularly attempt to blindly hit the ball out of the chimney and catch it. A competitive point reward system is used if a player successfully locates and hits a ball upwardly from the chimney and successfully catches it.