Hand Patents (Class 124/5)
  • Patent number: 11938409
    Abstract: A game apparatus includes at least two balls and two balance apparatuses for balancing the balls thereon. Each balance apparatus can be held by a separate player. A method of playing a ball balance game includes equipping at least two players each with a balance apparatus and a ball. Each ball is balanced on each balance apparatus. Players can then be positioned at desired locations relative to each other. A desired game can then be started with the balls and the balance apparatuses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2024
    Assignee: Wild Ideas Designs, LLC
    Inventors: Hayden Goedeker, William Van Orman
  • Patent number: 11229823
    Abstract: A maximum push-up exercise machine for various push-up exercises in the prone position on a platform with added resistance. An embodiment of the device includes a cable-pulley weight stack system housing with a cable-pulley weight stack system that is welded, bolted, or connected in any manner to the platform. The configuration of the cable-pulley weight stack system may be in any manner such that a cable thimble is positioned midpoint of the platform. The cable thimble is configured to connect to receive a snap link hook suspended from a harness or belt worn by a user, connect to a single cable handle attachment, and connect to a push-up bar via a push-up bar cable connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignee: OK Engineering Inc.
    Inventors: Omar Ismail KashKash, Yousef Ismail KashKash
  • Patent number: 10888075
    Abstract: A casting device, such as a fishing rod. The present casting device includes a rod, a spool disposed on the rod, a clamp disposed at the distal end of the rod, and a trigger operably connected to the clamp. The rod is configured to support a primary line having a secondary line extending therefrom. The secondary line further includes a stop configured to be gripped by the clamp. When the stop is gripped by the clamp, the primary line is tethered to the distal end of the rod via the secondary line. In one embodiment, the clamp includes a pair of clamp members connected by an articulated, pivotable connection. The casting device allows a user to precisely control the moment at which the primary line is cast because the primary line remains tethered to the rod until the clamp is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Inventor: Jeff Hoskins
  • Patent number: 10858099
    Abstract: This invention relates to the use of a retracting hand launching and landing pole for drones having small or short landing legs that are difficult to grasp when hand launching and landing in windy conditions and on moving platforms or irregular ground, and will not interfere with normal flat surface landings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Inventor: Helmuth G. Bachmann
  • Patent number: 10845167
    Abstract: A disc launching device includes a long handle and a disc holder at one end of the handle. The handle may include a grip end for holding the handle, an attachment end opposite the grip end, and a shaft extending from the grip end to the attachment end. The disc holder is attached to the attachment end of the handle. It includes a front rail for holding one side of a disc, a back rail for holding an opposite side of the disc, and at least one support member extending between the front rail and the back rail. The front rail and the back rail form an opening on one side of the disc holder, configured to allow the disc to launch out of the disc holder through the opening when sufficient forward momentum is applied to the disc holder via the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: CONSORTIA DEVELOPMENT, INC.
    Inventors: Kenneth D. Johannaber, Michael G. Fisher
  • Patent number: 10646760
    Abstract: A snowball launching and batting apparatus comprising a barrel member, a handle member, and a knob feature, the handle member further comprising a primary cradle structure configured to accept, form, and store snow or snowballs. The apparatus further comprises a secondary cradle structure capable of coupling the primary cradle structure and configured to accept, form, and store snow or snowballs. The knob feature may further comprise a depression configured to form snowballs. The apparatus is further configured to have an extended and retracted state. A user inserts snow into the barrel and cradle structure to form a snowball and inserts it into the apparatus while in an extended state. Launching the snowballs from the apparatus may comprise swinging the apparatus or applying a force to the handle member to quickly move it from an extended state to a retracted state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Inventor: John Hinnen, III
  • Patent number: 10378865
    Abstract: A disc launching device includes a long handle and a disc holder at one end of the handle. The handle may include a grip end for holding the handle, an attachment end opposite the grip end, and a shaft extending from the grip end to the attachment end. The disc holder is attached to the attachment end of the handle. It includes a front rail for holding one side of a disc, a back rail for holding an opposite side of the disc, and at least one support member extending between the front rail and the back rail. The front rail and the back rail form an opening on one side of the disc holder, configured to allow the disc to launch out of the disc holder through the opening when sufficient forward momentum is applied to the disc holder via the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: CONSORTIA DEVELOPMENT, INC.
    Inventors: Kenneth D. Johannaber, Michael G. Fisher
  • Patent number: 10226674
    Abstract: A launching device comprises a shaft having a first end and a second end, a head coupled to the first end of the shaft and a handle coupled to the second end of the shaft. The head comprises a cavity and a launch ramp curved both upwardly and outwardly from the cavity, wherein a distal portion of the launch ramp extends outwardly beyond the cavity in a forward launching direction. An angle is defined by the longitudinal grip axis and the distal portion of the launch ramp to direct a projectile disposed in the cavity in the forward launching direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2019
    Assignee: Imperial Toy LLC
    Inventors: Robert J. Ivanic, Tyler James Russell, Joseph Wong Wai Ching, Lee Ronald Loetz
  • Patent number: 10220282
    Abstract: A ball throwing device includes an arm, a ball holder at a first end thereof, a handle at a second end of the arm, and a mounting member configured for releasably mounting of interchangeable accessories. The mounting member has a first flange protruding away from the arm to a distal end, and a second flange protruding away from the first flange, in proximity to the distal end. The first flange has at least one recess. The interchangeable accessory has a mounting flange with an opening configured for the accessory to releasably couple to the mounting member. A first portion of the opening is shaped to be slidably received upon the first and second flanges; and a second portion of the opening is shaped to engage the at least one recess. The accessory may be: a spare ball holder, a pet waste bag dispenser, a pet treat container, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: GRAMERCY PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: William Steinkraus
  • Patent number: 10207166
    Abstract: A sports and games apparatus consisting of two rods and an aerodynamic projectile with an opening which receives the two rods. The projectile is launched by manipulating the rods in an opposing fashion. The opening of the projectile is of the appropriate size to allow for the rods to slide through, but not large enough that the projectile exhibits unwanted motions that inhibit accuracy during the launching motion. The rods are used to propel the projectile towards a variety of targets which interact with the projectile in various ways. The projectile may comprise a multitude of aerodynamic shapes and a multitude of methods for interacting with targets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventors: Stephen Patrick DeZordo, Scott Shanks
  • Patent number: 10195503
    Abstract: A disk throwing device, comprising a handle and a fork. The fork is coupled to the handle and extending therefrom along a first axis. The fork having a pair of prongs extending therefrom from an end thereof opposite the handle. The pair of prongs meeting at a prong junction and having a common top surface substantially orthogonal to the first axis such that a disk may slide freely across the top surface. The disk throwing device also comprises a clip, extending orthogonally away from the fork in relation to the first axis at a first portion at the prong junction. The clip having a second portion coupled to the first portion that extends substantially parallel to the first axis such that it may trap a disk between the clip and the pair of prongs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Inventor: David Lesh
  • Patent number: 10150022
    Abstract: A kit and method for playing and providing training for a golf-type game comprising at least one ball, at least one throwing apparatus such as a throwing rod, and at least one target unit, wherein golf-type game is played similar to golf, except that instead of golf clubs, a throwing rod advances a ball towards at least one target. Further the target unit is a container that contains a weighted granular substance. The throwing rod is operable to enable a player to grasp the rod by a handle, retain the ball between a pair of elongated, arced rails, and throw the ball with a whip-like motion over a long distance towards the target, much the same way as a driver used in a typical golf game. Further, the throwing rod is also adapted to enable the player to putt the ball towards the target for shorter distances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Inventor: John Barry Robino
  • Patent number: 10010777
    Abstract: A system for swing training with a bat, the system includes a training device, having a bat spacer attached to a sweet spot position on the bat about a barrel portion of the bat, the bat spacer having a body with a top surface and a bottom surface; the bottom surface is contoured to snugly fit against an outer surface of the barrel portion; the bottom surface is secured against the outer surface via an adhesion material; and the bottom surface wraps partially around the outer surface; a flexible energy absorbing cover attached to the top surface of the bat spacer, the flexible energy absorbing cover having an interior cavity; an electronic faceplate secured within the interior cavity to sense data associated with the bat coming into contact with a ball; and an electronic device in wireless communication with the electronic faceplate; the electronic device is to record data sensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Inventor: Jim Schwanke
  • Patent number: 9757632
    Abstract: A device and method for launching a projectile, such as a golf ball, across a range. The device enables a golf ball to be launched across a golf course with greater control than is possible with a traditional golf club. The ease of loading the projectile into the launching device and swinging the launching device forward adds greater distance to the projectile due to an increase in angular momentum and back spin on the projectile. The device includes a C-shaped head defined by a nest, a pair of lateral retention arms, and a base. A distal portion is longer than a proximal portion to create backspin on the projectile. The concavity and lateral arms hold the projectile in place. The distal and proximal portions terminate at concave points that grip dimples on the projectile. The base is fixedly attached to a shaft, which is used for swinging the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Assignee: SYMTAR VENTURES
    Inventors: John Cornelius Fryer, Christopher Paul Zaler
  • Patent number: 9675854
    Abstract: Embodiments of golf clubs having a body, a hosel portion, and an adjustment portion, wherein the adjustment portion is configured to adjust the loft and lie of the club head are described herein. Also described herein are methods of manufacturing golf clubs having a body, a hosel portion, and an adjustment portion, wherein the adjustment portion is configured to adjust the loft and lie of the club head. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: Karsten Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Calvin Wang, Xiaojian Chen, Erik Henrikson
  • Patent number: 9551553
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include a bowfishing slide arrangement for use with an archery bow. In certain embodiments, the arrangement includes a slide having a slide body configured to slide along an arrow shaft. The arrangement further includes a stop used in cooperation with the slide. The stop is arrangeable on the arrow shaft in a manner to prevent the slide from sliding off of the arrow shaft. A dampening material is secured to the rear of the slide and arranged between the slide and the stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Bear Archery, Inc.
    Inventors: Theodore J. Boester, Josh Sidebottom
  • Patent number: 9480895
    Abstract: A launching device comprises a shaft having a first end and a second end, a head coupled to the first end of the shaft and a handle coupled to the second end of the shaft. The head comprises a cavity and a launch ramp curved both upwardly and outwardly from the cavity, wherein a distal portion of the launch ramp extends outwardly beyond the cavity in a forward launching direction. An angle is defined by the longitudinal grip axis and the distal portion of the launch ramp to direct a projectile disposed in the cavity in the forward launching direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Assignee: Imperial Toy, LLC
    Inventors: Robert J. Ivanic, Tyler James Russell, Joseph Wong Wai Ching, Lee Ronald Loetz
  • Patent number: 9463346
    Abstract: An external rotator muscles training device for use with a training ball to strengthen external rotator muscles of a person's shoulder includes a frame assembly having a pair of elongate frame members parallel to one another, each frame member having opposed proximal and distal ends. A receptacle has a closed bottom and a side wall extending upwardly from the closed bottom, the side wall defining an open top allowing access to an interior area defined by the closed bottom and the side wall. The receptacle is coupled to the distal ends of the pair of frame members and positioned in a primary position in which the open top is generally perpendicular to a plane defined by the pair of frame member. A handle member extends between the pair of frame members, the handle member being situated between the receptacle and the proximal ends of the pair of frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Inventor: Derek Farmen
  • Patent number: 9259661
    Abstract: A method or kit for mounting or displaying a collectable flying disc. The kit includes a box clamp frame capable of capturing a segment of an edge lip and web of a disc under gentle pressure, where gentle pressure is sufficient to immobilize the disc in a generally upright position when the box clamp frame is seated on a horizontal surface, or in a generally pendent position when the box clamp frame is hung from a vertical surface. Discs may be displayed with other memorabilia such as photographs on a wall or positioned on a desk or table, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Inventor: Daniel M Vogel
  • Publication number: 20150137454
    Abstract: An apparatus for launching a projectile at a target, the apparatus being an elongate body having a chamber shaped for holding a projectile in a pre-launch position and for directing the projectile when the end of the launching apparatus is flung forward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventor: Vance Burks
  • Publication number: 20150136101
    Abstract: Disclosed is a hand held clay target thrower for throwing one or more targets simultaneously. The associated method is also disclosed. The thrower comprises a handle and a head. The head has two arms which run next to each other and extend laterally from the handle at an angle. The arms are flanged to create inward facing channels wherein clay targets are loaded. The thrower comprises a means for gently holding the targets in place such as a spring positioned in a channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventor: Carl Wayne Jensen
  • Patent number: 8973564
    Abstract: A recreational throwing apparatus comprises, in the exemplary embodiment, a handle portion and an engagement portion engaged with the handle portion and configured for selective frictional engagement with an engagement aperture of an object. Additionally, the engagement portion provides a means for substantially preventing rotation of the object about the engagement portion when engaged therewith. Thus, with the object frictionally engaged with the engagement portion in a desired orientation, the apparatus may be swung in a desired direction, causing the object to disengage and travel in the desired direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Chilkoot Trail Ventures, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Saber, Joseph Buescher
  • Patent number: 8960172
    Abstract: A launching device comprises a shaft having a first end and a second end, a head coupled to the first end of the shaft and a handle coupled to the second end of the shaft. The head comprises a cavity and a launch ramp curved both upwardly and outwardly from the cavity, wherein a distal portion of the launch ramp extends outwardly beyond the cavity in a forward launching direction. An angle is defined by the longitudinal grip axis and the distal portion of the launch ramp to direct a projectile disposed in the cavity in the forward launching direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Imperial Toy, LLC
    Inventors: Robert J. Ivanic, Tyler James Russell, Joseph Wong Wai Ching, Lee Ronald Loetz
  • Publication number: 20150047621
    Abstract: In a certain aspect, some embodiment provides apparatus and methods to facilitate the launching or throwing of streamer rolls, consisting of various paper, plastic and/or other materials, including in particular rolled paper or other material. Various embodiments provide such an apparatus that is safe and easy to use, durable, and/or economical to manufacture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Palladino
  • Patent number: 8939136
    Abstract: A hand-held flinging device includes a launcher that engages the projectile and improves control of the launcher and projectile, during a throwing/flinging motion, until centrifugal force causes disengagement of the projectile from the launcher. The engagement system involves the rearward portions of a launcher shaft and the projectile bore, so that, upon disengagement, frictional engagement and interference of the engagement system with the projectile is prevented or limited as the projectile moves forward to fly off the launcher. The engagement system may include a member that snaps into engagement with a hole or recess to hold the projectile on the launcher even through the wind-up portion of the throw that may include the launcher distal end being pointed downward. The preferred projectile covers the entire or nearly the entire launcher shaft distal of the hand grip and is heavier toward its front end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Inventors: Douglas M. Gaus, Caleb Chung
  • Publication number: 20150018129
    Abstract: A game stick and game are disclosed. The game stick includes a shaft with a head at one end. A channel wide enough for a game ball is defined in the head. The ball is placed in the channel and when the game stick is swung, the ball rides along the channel and is released therefrom to fly through the air. The head may be adjustable to affect the way in which the ball is thrown. The game is similar to golf except that instead of hitting the ball, the ball is thrown toward a target location at the end of a fairway. When the target location is reached, the game stick may be used as a putter to push or putt the ball to sink it into a sunken cup in the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: PLUSONE SPORTS LLC
    Inventors: Alexander S. Van Alen, Douglas G. Sabin
  • Publication number: 20150013653
    Abstract: A thrower includes an elongate arm. A handle is attached to one end of the arm. A retaining device has a base attached to an opposite end of the arm and at least one gripping member extending from the base to define a retention volume together with the base. The, or each, gripping member is resiliently displaceable with respect to the base to permit the retaining device to be urged on to the object to be thrown such that the, or each, gripping member is displaced to permit the object to be received in the retention volume, with the, or each, gripping member subsequently retaining the object in the retention volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: INNOVATIVE PET PRODUCTS PTY LTD
    Inventors: Hazel Clarke, Joseph Clarke
  • Publication number: 20150007803
    Abstract: A game stick and game are disclosed. The game stick includes a shaft with a head at one end. A channel wide enough for a game ball is defined in the head. The ball is placed in the channel and when the game stick is swung, the ball rides along the channel and is released therefrom to fly through the air. The head may be adjustable to affect the way in which the ball is thrown. The game is similar to golf except that instead of hitting the ball, the ball is thrown toward a target location at the end of a fairway. When the target location is reached, the game stick may be used as a putter to push or putt the ball to sink it into a sunken cup in the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2014
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Applicant: PlusOne Sports, LLC
    Inventors: Alex Van Alen, Douglas G. Sabin
  • Patent number: 8887707
    Abstract: A hand held disk thrower consisting of a pivoting extended arm and launching head connected to a gripping handle that allows a wide ratios secondary action. The throwing head and arm section are designed to grip the clay target in a semicircular channeled head that offers some resistance to releasing. The arm is lengthened and arched to create both drag and centrifugal force. The launch head and arm section are attached to the handle by a pivoting joint that allows for free or flopping movement of head arm section. The combination head and launch arm and handle are constructed of a semi-rigid plastic. The thrower is designed to release a spinning disk when swung in an arc by the person grasping the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: MTM Molded Products Company
    Inventors: Allen J. Minneman, Steven W. Minneman
  • Patent number: 8857419
    Abstract: The invention relates to a novel pet ball launcher which uses a friction fit, scoop edges, and tuned tines or “fingers” which control the release of the ball and thus arc and distance thereof. Embodiments include a pivot hinged handle for added launch inertia, and a thumb latch to prevent hinging motion for fixed and controlled distanced ball launching.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Kyle Hansen
  • Publication number: 20140144417
    Abstract: An improved projectile throwing apparatus is described comprising a handle, an elongate shaft, and a throwing head for throwing a projectile, such as a golf ball. The throwing head may be interchangeable with golf shafts of varied lengths, with lacrosse shafts, or other shafts to achieve accurate, long distance golf ball throws. The throwing head may be shaped to achieve throws of different distance, launch angle, and trajectory, optionally imparting spin with a retrograde ramp at the distal end of the throwing head. The throwing apparatus is useful for golf-type game play, including for those with physical disabilities, as well as for a training and instructional aid for golf, lacrosse, and other sports.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Inventor: Curtis Alan EVANS
  • Patent number: 8727407
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for holding a cookie includes a handle and a holder configured to hold a cookie to be dipped in a beverage. The holder includes a pair of retainer panels and a generally C-shaped clip. The C-shaped clip separates the pair of retainer panels and is adapted to hold the cookie between the panels. The handle is gripped and the cookie inserted into the holder such that the C-shaped clip resiliently bends around at least a portion of the cookie. The cookie is held by the holder and may be dipped into a beverage, such as milk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Burton & Parker Enterprises LLC
    Inventor: Herschel Parker
  • Patent number: 8701640
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to specialized flying discs and launching devices having a launching arm that can be held by a user, the arm being coupled to a flying disc via a coupler disposed at the launching end of the arm, and an attachment member disposed on the periphery of the flying disc. When swung by the user with appropriate force, the disc becomes un-coupled from the arm and takes flight. In some examples, the attachment members define distinct attachment nodes disposed within attachment openings. In some other examples the attachment member defines a concentric ring disposed on the periphery of the disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventor: Adriaan Smit
  • Publication number: 20130319386
    Abstract: A hand held disk thrower consisting of a pivoting extended arm and launching head connected to a gripping handle that allows a wide ratios secondary action. The throwing head and arm section are designed to grip the clay target in a semicircular channeled head that offers some resistance to releasing. The arm is lengthened and arched to create both drag and centrifugal force. The launch head and arm section are attached to the handle by a pivoting joint that allows for free or flopping movement of head arm section. The combination head and launch arm and handle are constructed of a semi-ridged plastic. The thrower is designed to release a spinning disk when swung in an arc by the person grasping the handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: MTM MOLDED PRODUCTS COMPANY
    Inventors: Allen J. Minneman, Steven W. Minneman
  • Publication number: 20130284158
    Abstract: The invention relates to a novel pet ball launcher which uses a friction fit, scoop edges, and tuned tines or “fingers” which control the release of the ball and thus arc and distance thereof. Embodiments include a pivot hinged handle for added launch inertia, and a thumb latch to prevent hinging motion for fixed and controlled distanced ball launching.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2012
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: Kyle Hansen
  • Patent number: 8539939
    Abstract: A hand held disk thrower consisting of a pivoting extended arm and launching head connected to a gripping handle that allows a wide ratios secondary action. The throwing head and arm section are designed to grip the clay target in a semicircular channeled head that offers some resistance to releasing. The arm is lengthened and arched to create both drag and centrifugal force. The launch head and arm section are attached to the handle by a pivoting joint that allows for free or flopping movement of head arm section. The combination head and launch arm and handle are constructed of a semi-ridged plastic. The thrower is designed to release a spinning disk when swung in an arc by the person grasping the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: M T M Molded Products Company
    Inventors: Allen J. Minneman, Steven W. Minneman
  • Patent number: 8517003
    Abstract: A ball throwing device includes a shaft having first and second ends and a ball holder formed on the first end of the shaft. The ball holder has first and second U-shaped pieces that define four curved finger elements and are arranged perpendicular to one another. In one embodiment, the shaft and the ball holder are made of bamboo. A cork handle is formed on the second end of the shaft. The ball throwing device can be combined with a hang card to form a display package. The hang card has a mounting aperture formed therein through which the shaft extends so that the ball holder abuts the hang card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Planet Ventures, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexander Fisher
  • Patent number: 8511292
    Abstract: The present invention addresses problems not resolved by conventional hand-held clay target throwers by providing a clay target throwing device comprising two unique main components that, both separately and upon combination, provide for a significantly improved hand-held clay target thrower device. The first main component is a unitary rear-loading flexible wire headend. The second main component is a specially formed handle including a self-cocking block component and an impact backstop structure. Together the combined flexible wire headend and handle provide an easy-to-use, efficient, effective, comfortable, and weather-resistant hand-held self-cocking and controlled release clay target throwing unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: WingOne LLC
    Inventors: Thomas D. Black, Gerald B. Black
  • Publication number: 20130186381
    Abstract: The invention relates to a novel pet ball launcher which uses a friction fit, scoop edges, and tuned tines or “fingers” which control the release of the ball and thus arc and distance thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2012
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Inventor: Kyle Hansen
  • Publication number: 20130174818
    Abstract: A symmetrical, single piece, hand held clay pigeon thrower, made of durable plastic, consisting of a handle at one end which then separates into parallel arms. The internal side of each arm contains a recessed channel along the lengths of the arms whereby a clay pigeon can be loaded into the channel at the end of the arms and slid towards the handle. The swinging of the thrower causes the clay pigeon to rotate along the length of the arms and channels and then launch. The arms are of such a length to accommodate up to two clay pigeons. The device may be used by both right-handed and left-handed individuals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Inventor: Joel Evan Tingey
  • Publication number: 20130167818
    Abstract: A launching device comprises a shaft having a first end and a second end, a head coupled to the first end of the shaft and a handle coupled to the second end of the shaft. The head comprises a cavity and a launch ramp curved both upwardly and outwardly from the cavity, wherein a distal portion of the launch ramp extends outwardly beyond the cavity in a forward launching direction. An angle is defined by the longitudinal grip axis and the distal portion of the launch ramp to direct a projectile disposed in the cavity in the forward launching direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: IMPERIAL TOY, LLC
    Inventors: Robert J. Ivanic, Tyler James Russell, Joseph Wong Wai Ching, Lee Ronald Loetz
  • Publication number: 20130139797
    Abstract: A ball (100) having a foam core (110) with a channel recess (114) formed on its surface is enclosed by a cover assembly including a rubber channel assembly (120) in the shape of a spherical curve, such as a baseball curve, and fabric panels (132) that are fixed to the channel assembly. The channel assembly is configured to be inserted into the channel recess in the core. In an embodiment, a heat-activated adhesive substrate is disposed between the cover assembly and the core. In an embodiment, a launcher engages the channel assembly to aid in throwing the ball. In an embodiment, a removable insert (220) is insertable to be retained in the channel assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2012
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: CANINE HARDWARE INC.
    Inventors: Mark J. Oblack, Kyle D. Burger, Mark D. Thinnes
  • Patent number: 8418681
    Abstract: A ball thrower is described. The ball thrower includes a throwing end and a reserve end. The throwing end provides for a ball to be held and released from the ball thrower during a throwing motion. The reserve end provides a place or a compartment to hold the ball securely when the ball thrower is not in use. Further, a first and a second ball may be maintained at the throwing end and at the reserve end, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Sergeant's Pet Care Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Levin, Gwendolyn Newsome, Ryan P. Davidson
  • Patent number: 8387601
    Abstract: A disk launching apparatus that employs a handle connected to a flexible shaft that is connected to a launching head. The head includes a first arcuate portion and a second arcuate portion arranged in a semi-circular configuration to define a space in which a disk is retained in contact with the first and second arcuate members. At least one securing point is located on the first arcuate member and a plurality of securing points located on the second arcuate member. An elastic band is attached between the first securing point on the first arcuate member and one of the plurality of securing points located on the second arcuate member, thereby crossing a disk held within the launching head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas E. Christensen
  • Patent number: 8327832
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for throwing or launching paper or other material. The apparatus may be configured engage with a roll of paper or other material, and/or to impart a spin on the roll of paper or other material upon release of the roll. This spin can cause the paper or other material to unroll as it is released from the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Lee L. Henry
  • Patent number: 8302585
    Abstract: A combined snowball forming and launching device is described. The device includes a portion for gathering snow, a mechanism for compacting the snow, and a handle to swing the scoop and launch a snowball. In one embodiment the compacting mechanism is a press at one end of an elongated portion. In another embodiment, the elongated portion is a curved channel that may be used for gathering and launching a snowball. A method for forming and launching snowballs is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Wham-O Inc.
    Inventor: David FitzGerald
  • Publication number: 20120227721
    Abstract: The present invention pertains generally to a ball throwing apparatus. More specifically, the present invention pertains to a tennis ball throwing apparatus with an elongated shaft that may be folded in half. The shaft of the throwing apparatus has a claw-like structure with a plurality of elongate members attached or formed at one end for releasing the ball when throwing and picking up a ball without the user making direct contact with the ball and a partial spherical structure attached to or formed at the opposite end of the shaft for storing an extra ball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventor: Tamar Geller
  • Publication number: 20120210989
    Abstract: The present invention addresses problems not resolved by conventional hand-held clay target throwers by providing a clay target throwing device comprising two unique main components that, both separately and upon combination, provide for a significantly improved hand-held clay target thrower device. The first main component is a unitary rear-loading flexible wire headend. The second main component is a specially formed handle including a self-cocking block component and an impact backstop structure. Together the combined flexible wire headend and handle provide an easy-to-use, efficient, effective, comfortable, and weather-resistant hand-held self-cocking and controlled release clay target throwing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: Wing One, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas D. Black, Gerald B. Black
  • Publication number: 20120199105
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to specialized flying discs and launching devices having a launching arm that can be held by a user, the arm being coupled to a flying disc via a coupler disposed at the launching end of the arm, and an attachment member disposed on the periphery of the flying disc. When swung by the user with appropriate force, the disc becomes un-coupled from the arm and takes flight. In some examples, the attachment members define distinct attachment nodes disposed within attachment openings. In some other examples the attachment member defines a concentric ring disposed on the periphery of the disc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Inventor: Adriaan Smit
  • Publication number: 20120048251
    Abstract: A pet toy suitable for indoor use includes an indoor launcher having a rigid handle, a flexible arm, and a C-shaped head attached to a distal end of the arm. The head is narrow at the central portion, and wider at the upper and lower lips. The ball is configured to be releasably retained in the head, and may be, for example, spherical or a center spherical segment. The ball comprises a foam core which may be hollow and vented, and a napped fabric covering. Optionally, the ball may include one or more straps. The ball characteristics provide high drag and rolling resistance to limit the path of the ball, and define a soft and compliant article suitable for indoor use. The optional straps provide greatly improved visibility. Limited travel and good visibility makes the balls particularly suitable for older or impaired pets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: CANINE HARDWARE INC.
    Inventors: Mark J. Oblack, Kyle D. Burger, Mark D. Thinnes