Abstract: A set piece simulation system provides a simulation of a set piece in soccer. The system includes a data transmission/reception unit, an image output unit, a kick information analysis unit, and an image processing unit. The data transmission/reception unit receives ball location information from a sensing device, the image output unit outputs a set piece background screen to an image output device, the sensed ball location and auxiliary information including angle(s) based on the ball location, the data transmission/reception unit receives a user's kick motion image and kick information including speed, spin rate, and/or direction of the ball, the kick information analysis unit analyzes movement path of the ball, and the image processing unit displays trajectory of the ball and the speed and spin information of the ball on the set piece background screen based on the analyzed movement path.

Abstract: A method for adaptive user training and gaming utilizing a media player is disclosed. The method includes operations of receiving, by control logic, data pertaining to selection of a first training program, transmitting, by the control logic, media instructions to cause activation of a media player configured to display visual data corresponding to the first training program, and transmitting, by the control logic, ball-throwing instructions to cause activation of a ball-throwing machine configured to impart motion to one or more balls in accordance with the first training program. The method includes additional operations of recording, by the control logic, an indication of the first training program in a player profile. Additional operations includes recording, by the control logic, training data indicating metrics associated with performance of the first training program.

Abstract: A non-transitory storage medium having stored thereon logic is disclosed. The logic is executable by one or more processors to perform operations including receiving information associated with a selection of a first training drill, responsive to receiving the information associated with the selection of the first training drill and based on the first training drill, causing a first light to be placed in an activated state, wherein the first light is coupled to a first goal apparatus, and responsive to a triggering event, causing the first light to be placed in a deactivated state and causing a second light to be placed in an activated state. The goal apparatus includes posts that form a goal plane, wherein a first sensor pair is coupled to the goal, and wherein the triggering event is a detection of an object passing through the posts and across the goal plane.

Abstract: A football training device for replicating a defensive rush includes a base frame, a plurality of obstacles extending upward from the base frame, and one or more wheels supporting the base frame. A method of training an offensive football player using the device includes positioning an offensive football player being trained on front of the training device, initiating a drill where the offensive football player carries out a conventional football play, and while the offensive football player carries out the conventional football play, moving the training device, relative to the offensive football player, such that the obstacles simulate a defensive rush toward the offensive player, thereby creating a visual and physical barrier to the completion of the conventional football play.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the multi-sport training device disclosed herein comprises a plurality of adjustable panels that easily attach to a frame of a goal and may be adjusted to different configurations desired by the player, or shooter. Each panel in the plurality of panels is configured for independent attachment to the goal, and may be hung vertically from the crossbar of the goal, or “flipped” over the goal to expose a portion of the open goal. Each panel is also configured for independent adjustment in length.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of an American-style football quarterback training device and method. Goals associated with the disclosed system include training a quarterback to not telegraph passes and to look in a direction opposite to where the ball is about to be thrown. The disclosed device comprises a sensor that is mountable on desired headgear, for example a football helmet, and is useful for detecting lateral head position and lateral head movement, a processor for processing data associated with the lateral head position and for processing data associated with lateral head movement, a user interface, a memory storage device, and optionally a timer, each of which are in communication with the processor and sensor. The lateral head position a quarterback can be monitored and data can be captured and processed relative to when the quarterback's head moves outside of an acceptable threshold range of acceptable lateral head positions.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for training a quarterback in skills necessary for the game of American football. The invention comprises a snap deck, targets, and blitz sticks, which all stand freely. The snap deck is a station that allows the user to create or modify play sequences, which are defined by selecting certain targets and blitz sticks to illuminate at certain times. The interface also includes displays showing session statistics. A play is initiated by removing the football from a holder on the snap deck. The targets illuminate according to the programmed play, representing open receivers, to which the user attempts to complete a pass. The blitz sticks illuminate according to the programmed play, signaling a blitz to the user, who reacts accordingly while attempting to complete a pass. If a successful pass is not completed within the time limit, all targets illuminate red and an alarm sounds.

Abstract: The quarterback training apparatus is comprised of an array of tracks that extend laterally, diagonally, or longitudinally, and which accommodates at least one movable target thereon. Each movable target includes a track-engaging member from which a pivoting member extends vertically therefrom, and atop of which is a basket. Each basket includes a flexible net that extends from a back opening in order to collect a football that is thrown therein. The baskets may have varying diameters, and may be tilted to a multitude of orientations via the pivoting member. The track-engaging member enables the basket to be moved along the respective track while the pivoting member enables the basket to be adjusted at varying orientations. When fully constructed, an end user is able to throw a plurality of footballs at the various targets in order to practice different types of football throws.

Abstract: In one embodiment, kicking training is provided to a kicker in real time by collecting data while the kicker kicks a ball toward a display screen, determining the trajectory of the ball from the collected data, and displaying to the kicker on the display screen a simulation of the flight of the ball within a virtual world.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for training a quarterback in skills necessary for the game of American football. The invention comprises a snap deck, targets, and blitz sticks, which all stand freely. The snap deck is a station that allows the user to create or modify play sequences, which are defined by selecting certain targets and blitz sticks to illuminate at certain times. The interface also includes displays showing session statistics. A play is initiated by removing the football from a holder on the snap deck. The targets illuminate according to the programmed play, representing open receivers, to which the user attempts to complete a pass. The blitz sticks illuminate according to the programmed play, signaling a blitz to the user, who reacts accordingly while attempting to complete a pass. If a successful pass is not completed within the time limit, all targets illuminate red and an alarm sounds.

Abstract: A net or barrier has strategically located pocket(s) attached to the net over holes(s) in the net/barrier in order to catch a ball or projectile that passes through the hole(s). A computer-assisted method displays information, more particularly advertisement, onto a net or barrier. The computer-assisted display is viewable by a TV or video audience.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device designed to increase the accuracy of both the throwing, bouncing, propelling by stick and kicking of a baseball, football, lacrosse ball or soccer ball. The apparatus is constructed of a frame, for example of aluminum tubing. A net is attached to or hung over the aluminum tubing to provide a series of pouches aligned horizontally at various heights. These pouches provide target areas for a ball. The pouches may be designed to allow the ball to drop from a pouch it enters into a second pouch or to the bottom of the device for easy removal. The device is held by a base that may have wheels and may be steadied by one or more transverse supports running across the bottom or the back of the base.

Abstract: A screen apparatus for use in sports training or sports skills development, the screen apparatus including a plurality of screen members and a support means for supporting the screen members in a use condition, each of the screen members at least temporarily attached relative to the support means such that in use, the screen members define a screen until struck by an object at which time at least one of the screen members is at least partially dislodged to allow passage of the object in a substantially uninhibited manner.

Abstract: The invention is a kicking net that includes a frame and a net. The kicking net allows a ball to be snapped through a base portion of the frame without touching the frame or the net. This allows the users to snap or hike a ball through the kicking net in order to simulate a complete field goal attempt or punt.

Abstract: A quarterback trainer includes a circular target frame having a plurality of target locations and is mounted on a support for rotation about its axis in either direction. The support may be located on a cart. The cart includes a receptacle area below the target frame that receives and stores footballs thrown toward the target. A motor is coupled to the pivot for the frame to facilitate control of rotations of the circular target frame. A controller for the motor controls activation and deactivation as well as the direction of rotation and the speed of rotation of the motor's driven shaft. The motor is preferably powered by one or more batteries.

Abstract: Rotatable sleeves are disposed adjacent the ends of the crossbar of a goalpost. A stub is integrally formed with each of the sleeves and each stub protrudes through an opening in the crossbar. The opening in the crossbar is dimensioned to permit back to front movement of the stub and corresponding rotation of the sleeve until verticality of the stub and its associated upright is achieved. At that point, the sleeve is locked against further rotation by means of a tapping block previously installed in the sleeve and engaged with a serrated bolt through an appropriately dimensioned opening in the crossbar and corresponding holes in the sleeve. Once the bolts are tightened into the tapping block, the sleeve is drawn tightly against the interior surface of the crossbar, thereby locking the sleeve and the stub and the upright against further rotation.

Abstract: Rotatable sleeves are disposed adjacent the ends of the crossbar of a goalpost. A stub is integrally formed with each of the sleeves and each stub protrudes through an opening in the crossbar. The opening in the crossbar is dimensioned to permit back to front movement of the stub and corresponding rotation of the sleeve until verticality of the stub and its associated upright is achieved. At that point, the sleeve is locked against further rotation by means of a tapping block previously installed in the sleeve and engaged with a serrated bolt through an appropriately dimensioned opening in the crossbar and corresponding holes in the sleeve. Once the bolts are tightened into the tapping block, the sleeve is drawn tightly against the interior surface of the crossbar, thereby locking the sleeve and the stub and the upright against further rotation.

Abstract: A mobile practice target is described, which includes a framework comprising a base support and at least one substantially vertical support extending above the base support and an angled support above the vertical support, together with a pocket comprising a resilient material having at least one front opening parallel to the vertical support capable of receiving a football propelled from the horizontal direction, and a top opening parallel to the angled support for receiving a propelled football from above. A baffle is secured to the top of the front opening which can absorb the momentum of the propelled football and/or deflect the propelled football downward into the pocket. A mobility means associated with the base support is provided to facilitate transport of the mobile practice target. The mobile practice target captures and contains propelled footballs and prevents them from bouncing out of the pocket when traversing the front opening.

Abstract: A device which aids the training of football pass receivers, in the desired ball catching and retaining posture, comprising a belt worn around the midsection of the player, attached cables or straps fastened to the belt, and supporting means attached to the cable or strap. The training device is designed for use by backfield players and ends, to aid in their training to remain inbounds when catching a thrown or kicked football, rather than touching or running beyond the sideline mark. The belt, cable or strap and support provided by the coach or trainer, or by a fixed support, allows the pass receiver to learn and practice leaning beyond the sideline marker while catching a thrown or kicked football, while remaining inbounds.

Abstract: A mobile practice target is described, which includes a framework comprising a base support and at least one substantially vertical support extending above the base support and an angled support above the vertical support, together with a pocket comprising a resilient material having at least one front opening parallel to the vertical support capable of receiving a football propelled from the horizontal direction, and a top opening parallel to the angled support for receiving a propelled football from above. A baffle is secured to the top of the front opening which can absorb the momentum of the propelled football and/or deflect the propelled football downward into the pocket. A mobility means associated with the base support is provided to facilitate transport of the mobile practice target. The mobile practice target captures and contains propelled footballs and prevents them from bouncing out of the pocket when traversing the front opening at speeds greater than about 30 mph.

Abstract: A mobile practice target is described, which includes (a) a framework comprising a base support and at least one substantially vertical support extending above said base support and an angled support associated with said substantially vertical support, wherein said angled support is at an angle of from about 15 degrees to about 90 degrees relative to the substantially vertical support, (b) a means for capturing a football propelled at the mobile practice target comprising resilient material attached to said vertical and angled supports, said means comprising a pocket formed from a resilient material for containing the propelled football and having at least one opening for receiving the propelled football into the pocket, (c) said pocket comprising an unobstructed opening for receiving a propelled football from the horizontal direction and further comprising an opening for receiving a propelled football from above, and (d) a mobility means associated with the base support to facilitate movement of the mobile p

Abstract: A device which is utilized during practice or other informal situation to teach a football player such as a quarterback or kicker to deliver a football around or over one or preferably a group of linemen. In one embodiment, the device includes a mechanism capable of moving at least one figure, simulative of a human athlete, from an inactive position to an active position which is adapted to mimic predetermined characteristics of a defensive line. In yet a further embodiment, the training device has a gate of a predetermined height and width operatively connected to a base which can be utilized, for example, to practice throwing, snapping, or hiking the football, or the like. In another embodiment, the training device includes a backstop, such as a net, which can be utilized to stop a football used with the training device, such as during practice of a snap, a kick, a throw or a punt.

Abstract: A portable football target device for improving the accuracy of a pass and to also teach defensive backs the appropriate decision to make when covering a receiver as to whether to attempt an interception or to tackle the receiver, includes a rounded weighted base attached to an upper padded contact member within which is located an internal support tube array providing a plurality of spacial target rod receptacles within which is placed one or more netted target members, providing at least one target at a location relative to the device to which a pass may be thrown with the football being retained within the netted target member.

Abstract: An automated goalkeeper assembly includes a track having a length; a goalie structure; and a base that supports the goalie structure on top of the track. The base has wheels and a motor cooperating with at least one of the wheels for moving the goalie structure along the length of the track. A player, for example, a hockey player or a soccer player, can practice scoring goals against the goalie structure. The goalie structure is preferably inflatable, and the track is preferably constructed from a plurality of track sections. The track preferably has grooves and the base preferably has flanges that cooperate with the grooves to keep the base secured in the track when the player bumps into the goalie structure. All of the components of the goalkeeper assembly can be provided as a kit that can be assembled and disassembled as desired.

Abstract: A device is disclosed which includes a base and a pair of substantially vertical members supported by the base. A horizontal member extends substantially horizontally between the vertical members. A first mechanism selectively adjusts the vertical position of the horizontal member, while a second mechanism selectively adjusts the horizontal position of the vertical members to define a first projectile target area. A target loop is mounted to the horizontal member within the first projectile target area and defines a second projectile target area. A third mechanism is provided for selectively adjusting the position of the target loop along the horizontal member between the vertical members. Finally, an arm extension attaches the target loop to the horizontal member and includes a fourth mechanism for variably adjusting the distance between the target loop and the horizontal member within the first projectile target area.

Abstract: A football goalpost that can be used at various times by both high school and college teams by adjusting the spacing of the uprights. The goalpost has the ability to adjust the verticality of the uprights by rotation of the uprights about the crossbar axis. The goalpost has the ability to adjust the side-to-side tilt and front-to-back tilt of the gooseneck by adjusting the gooseneck to sleeve connection. The goalpost also has the ability to adjust the horizontality of the crossbar by rotation of the crossbar about the gooseneck horizontal axis. In addition, the goalpost has a vertical gooseneck with incorporated height adjustment to be used for either real turf, or artificial turf.

Abstract: An assembly includes a track having a length; a goalie structure; and a base that supports the goalie structure on top of the track. The base has wheels and a motor cooperating with at least one of the wheels for moving the goalie structure along the length of the track. A player, for example, a hockey player or a soccer player, can practice scoring goals against the goalie structure. The goalie structure is preferably inflatable, and the track is preferably constructed from a plurality of track sections. The track preferably has grooves and the base preferably has flanges that cooperate with the grooves to keep the base secured in the track when the player bumps into the goalie structure. All of the components of the assembly can be provided as a kit that can be assembled and disassembled as desired.

Abstract: A football target practice apparatus for allowing a user to practice one's football throwing skills. The football target practice apparatus includes a base member being adapted to rest upon a ground; and also includes a football catching assembly including an elongate upright tubular member being mounted upon the base member and having a side wall, a cavity disposed inside thereof, and holes being disposed through the side wall and being adapted to allow a football to pass therethrough.

Abstract: A device for estimating the range of a struck ball includes a backstop, at least one velocity measuring device, a data processor having a data structure communicating with the velocity measuring device, and a display communicating with the data processor. The range of a struck ball is estimated by measuring the velocity and departure angle, or alternatively, the horizontal and vertical velocities of a moving ball. The measurements are communicated to the data processor. The data processor calculates the range using formulae stored in the data structure or extrapolates the range from a database stored in the data structure. The range may be further manipulated to take account of environmental factors and factors unique to the player. The range is displayed at the display.

Abstract: A target for an object thrown, struck or otherwise projected by a user. The target includes a number of uprights pivotally mounted to a base. A user projects an object at the uprights in an attempt to knock them down. The target optionally includes a reset mechanism for remotely raising the uprights back into their raised position after they have been knocked down, and a storage bin for storing and transporting equipment.

Abstract: An invention relating to a device and method for training all types of pitchers. The coach observes a pitch, approximating its natural apogee. This point should be at about 12 to 15 feet from the mound/release point. The Pitcher's Box pitcher training system is placed at the approximate point of apogee and adjustments in height and width are made to accommodate the ability of the pitcher, placing the target object as near as possible to the apogee height with the target object being no closer than 12 inches to the top of the enclosed section itself. The coach instructs the pitcher to pitch at and through the target object to the target zone at home plate. The pitcher is able to remove the stigma of distance from the pitch, enabling the subject to work on mechanics, conditioning, strength and repetition. For advanced work by accomplished subjects more than one Pitcher's Box can be used in tandem to establish control and placement, desired movement, and to map movement and reactions.

Abstract: An apparatus for centering a ball is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a base, an upright member supported on the base for pivotal movement with respect to the base, and a pivot arm pivotally supported relative to the upright member for pivotal movement between a first, cocked position and a second, released position. A ball cradle is supported on the pivot arm for releasably supporting a ball to be centered. A bias member urges the pivot arm towards the second, released position and a pivot arm lock is operable, in a first condition, to hold the pivot arm in the first position. The pivot arm lock, in a second condition, releases the pivot arm so that the bias member moves the pivot arm to the released position, thereby centering the ball. The apparatus preferably includes sound actuated means for changing the condition of the pivot arm lock from the first condition to the second condition, to center the ball.

Abstract: A net assembly which allows a user to easily and conveniently practice the launching, throwing or kicking of sports balls (such as baseballs, soccer balls and footballs) in a limited and/or indoor area, and is easily carried, kept or installed. In the net assembly, the net is appropriately tensioned, thus effectively stopping flying balls without failure. The net assembly has a U-shaped base pipe unit laid on a support surface. A main support pipe is mounted to an end of each side arm of the base pipe unit. The support pipe extends upwardly and is inclined outwardly relative to the side arm at an angle of 45°±10°. First and second tension pipes are coupled to each other using a joint, thus forming a tension pipe unit with a holding pin being provided at an outside end of the tension pipe unit for holding a net. The tension pipe unit is mounted to the support pipe at the lower end thereof.

Abstract: A device for estimating the range of a struck ball includes a backstop, at least one velocity measuring device, a data processor having a data structure communicating with the velocity measuring device, and a display communicating with the data processor. The range of a struck ball is estimated by measuring the velocity and departure angle, or alternatively, the horizontal and vertical velocities of a moving ball. The measurements are communicated to the data processor. The data processor calculates the range using formulae stored in the data structure or extrapolates the range from a database stored in the data structure. The range may be further manipulated to take account of environmental factors and factors unique to the player. The range is displayed at the display.

Abstract: This device is a portable training apparatus for the evaluation of the flight trajectory and the horizontal and vertical vectors comprising the flight path of a kicked football at any distance, the device having a portable wheeled base, rigid uprights and movable trajectory indicator which may be set for optimum trajectory angle.

Abstract: A shooting target system comprising a substantially vertical post having a target assembly comprising a double faced target, a stub shaft and a pivot shaft, the target assembly rotatably mounted upon the post wherein the post further releasably captures the target assembly at each one of a plurality of positions spaced vertically upon the post.

Abstract: The football goal post of the present invention includes a cross bar that allows the spacing of the uprights to be selectively adjusted by the user of the goal post. A variety of embodiments are disclosed showing different arrangements for adjusting the spacing of the uprights. In some of the embodiments, the uprights are simultaneously adjusted by a single actuator. In other embodiments, the uprights may be manually adjusted while in other embodiments the uprights may be adjusted from a remote location. The invention also provides an adjustable ground sleeve that allows the goal post to be raised and lowered and rotated about the x, y, and z axes so that it may be precisely aligned with the football field during and after installation.

Abstract: An apparatus for enhancing in simulated real-time environment, the skills of a football place kicker, center and holder, particularly the speed, distance, direction and angle of the kicks, by simulating charging lineman and providing simultaneous and integrally connected, resettable, visually displayed split-time and total elapsed timing feedback comprising uprights, a cross bar supporting a net, actuator switches for cross bar, timing means, and time display and reset means on the time display.

Abstract: A pitcher protection net device in baseball practice having a frame installed on the ground to vertically extend to cover a pitcher from his front. A net closes a space surrounded by the outer edge of the frame and is attached to the frame. The frame includes a main frame forming one lateral portion on one widthwise side. An auxiliary frame projects from the lower portion of the main frame toward the other widthwise side to form the other lateral portion of the frame. The pitcher protection net device in baseball practice includes an extension net that closes a corner space surrounded by this side edge of the upper portion main frame on the other side and the upper edge of the auxiliary frame. The extension net is capable of deflecting downward. The pitcher protection net device also includes an adjusting means for adjusting the amount of deflection of the upper edge to the extension net.

Abstract: A simulated image of a batter facing a pitcher is provided for use in pitching practice. The lower portion of the batter includes one or more stakes which are inserted into the ground and provide a stable support. By positioning the simulated batter in an appropriate place near “home plate”, a pitcher can use the batter as a reference to determine the location of the strike zone. The size of the batter can be adjusted to vary the size of the strike zone. A ball detection apparatus and audio output can be provided to indicate when a pitch is detected and whether the pitch is a ball or a strike.

Abstract: A modified goal post is provided including an upstanding post, a large frame mounted on the post, and a small frame mounted within the frame.

Abstract: An informal baseball game played with a few players on each side, equipment for defining a strike zone and hit zones, and with a set of rules.

Abstract: A portable, remote controlled moving target device for throwing practice which includes a support cable for supporting and carrying a target on an adjustable target support. The adjustable target support includes a hollow upper stem portion and a hollow lower stem portion with a spring within the hollow stem portions that forces the two stem portions together and allows the user to adjust the position the angle or position between the target and the support cable. The adjustable target support is pulled along the support cable by an endless cable loop that is driven by a motor. A remote control transmitter and receiver are used for controlling the motor so that a player or user can interact with the target device and stop and reverse the motion of the target from the field, and thus allows the player to repeat target plays as desired or quickly stop the motion of the target in the event of an emergency.

Abstract: A process for the recovery of metal carbides from ferroalloys and nickel alloys of niobium, tantalum, vanadium, and hydrides thereof is disclosed. The selected ferroalloy or nickel alloy is contacted with a hydrogen containing gas, subdivided, and carbided by contact with a hydrocarbon containing gas at a temperature above 500.degree. C. The carbided reaction product is then leached with an aqueous acid solution for recovery.