Abstract: Disclosed herein is a system and method directed to object tracking and metric generation using a plurality of cameras. The system includes the plurality of cameras disposed around a playing surface in a mirrored configuration, where the plurality of cameras are time-synchronized. The system further includes logic that, when executed by a processor, causes performance of operations including: obtaining a sequence of images from the plurality of cameras, continuously detecting an object in image pairs at successive points in time, wherein each image pair corresponds to a single point in time, continuously determining a location of the object within the playing space through triangulation of the object within each image pair, detecting a player and the object within each image of a subset of image pairs of the sequence of images, identifying a sequence of interactions between the object and the player, and storing the sequence of interactions.

Abstract: A system for creating and viewing indexed video snippets of a series of shots toward a goal comprising at least one sensor directly connected to a microprocessor, the microprocessor configured to trigger responsive to a ball-shooting detection of at least one of the series of shots toward the goal; electronic times that represent the accurate timing of a triggering event related to the ball-shooting detection; one or more video recordings captured by at least one recording source; wherein the electronic times are utilized to associate portions of the one or more video recordings with corresponding shots toward the goal; the associated portions are stored as separate video snippets; and the video snippets are indexed by the corresponding shots toward the goal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a basketball shooting game played using smart glasses, and more specifically, to a real-time basketball shooting game that enables at least two players at basketball courts at remote locations anywhere in the world to play a real basketball shooting game with one another using smart glasses.

Abstract: A system and method for receiving an ordered set of images and analyzing the images to determine at least one position in space and at least one motion vector in space and time for at least one object represented in the images is disclosed. Using these vectors, a four dimensional model of at least a portion of the information represented in the images is formulated. This model generally obeys the laws of physics, though aberrations may be imposed. The model is then exercised with an input parameter, which, for example, may represent a different perspective than the original set of images. The four dimensional model is then used to produce a modified set of ordered images in dependence on the input parameter and optionally the set of images, e.g., if only a portion of the data represented in the images is modeled. The set of images may then be rendered on a display device.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing performance feedback regarding a basketball practice session are provided. A user interface associated with a portable basketball launching machine accepts user input indicating a number of different locations at a basketball playing area for the portable basketball launching machine to provide basketball passes for a player to catch and shoot towards a basketball goal as part of the basketball practice session. A detection device ascertains whether the player succeeded in making a basketball goal for each of the basketball passes. A processor receives data from the detection device and generates a representation of a basketball court overlaid with data indicating where the basketball passes were provided and whether said player was successful in making basketball goals.

Abstract: Networks, systems and displays for providing derived data and predictive information for use in multivariable component systems and activities; and in particular for use in motor racing such as in NASCAR®, Indy Car, Grand-Am (sports car racing), and/or Formula 1® racing. More particularly, there are systems equipment and networks for the monitoring and collecting of raw data regarding races, both real time and historic. This raw data is then analyzed to provide derived data, predictive data, virtual data, and combinations and variations of this data, which depending upon the nature of this data may be packaged, distributed, displayed and used in various setting and applications.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for determining reduced player performance during a sporting event. The system can use one or more sensors to capture information about actions such as shooting, dribbling, kicking and/or passing an object performed by the player and at least one processor to analyze the information in order to evaluate the player's performance. The system can determine and store at least one parameter indicative of the performance of the player in performing an action, and calculate based on the at least one stored parameter at least one value indicative of whether player intentionally underperformed the action and provide an output indicative of the assessment.

Abstract: Methods and systems for displaying a playable interaction in a simulated game are provided. In one aspect, a method includes receiving, from a device of a user, a plurality of player selections for a first team, calculating an overall team rating for the first team, calculating a number of scoring chances for the first team, simulating, based on the number of scoring chances, a first portion of the game until a predetermined type of interaction between the first team and the second team occurs, displaying the predetermined type of interaction, providing control of the first team for predetermined type of interaction, simulating, based on the number of scoring chances, a second portion of the game until a second predetermined type of interaction occurs, displaying the second predetermined type of interaction, providing control of the first team for the second predetermined type of interaction.

Abstract: A method, computer system, and computer program product for sport training on an augmented reality device or a virtual reality device is provided. The embodiment may include capturing a plurality of user movement data using one or more sensors. The embodiment may also include measuring a user body and eye gaze position based on the plurality of captured user movement data. The embodiment may further include calculating a body position difference by comparing the measured user body and eye gaze position with an expert-specified body position sequence. The embodiment may also include determining a body position quality threshold is not satisfied based on the calculated body position difference. The embodiment may further include generating an instruction based on the compared calculated body position difference.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for automated object and activity tracking in a live video feed. The apparatus receives and processes a live video feed to identify a plurality of objects and activities therein. The apparatus also generates natural language text that describes a storyline of the live video feed using the plurality of objects and activities so identified. The live video feed is processed using computer vision, natural language processing and machine learning, and a catalog of identifiable objects and activities. The apparatus then outputs the natural language text audibly or visually with a display of the live video feed.

Abstract: A basketball training apparatus to provide user feedback on shooting form is provided. The basketball training apparatus includes a sleeve disposed around the user's upper arm and forearm, a strut assembly coupled to the sleeve and having an upper strut pivotably mounted to a lower strut, a Hall Effect sensor disposed within the junction of the upper and lower struts, a pair of magnets coupled to the strut assembly's junction, a controller disposed within the strut assembly and electrically coupled to the Hall Effect sensor, and an alert mechanism disposed within the strut assembly and electrically coupled to the controller. Pivotable movement of the upper strut relative to the lower strut to either a first optimal angle or second optimal angle enables the alert mechanism to generate a notification.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products for detecting hand-eye coordination in real time by combining camera eye tracking and wearable sensing are provided herein. A computer-implemented method includes determining an eye gaze path of an individual during a given period of time by measuring (i) any eye movements made by the individual during the given period of time and (ii) any head movements made by the individual during the given period of time; measuring any hand movements made by the individual during the given period of time; performing a spatio-temporal analysis of the determined eye gaze path and the measured hand movements to compute a hand-eye coordination value attributable to the individual; and outputting the computed hand-eye coordination value to at least one user.

Abstract: A made-shot-detecting net system is configured to determine when a basketball passes through the net. The system uses a strand of conductive material that is laced through the net, an electrical property (e.g., resistance) of which changes (e.g., increases) as the net—and hence the strand of conductive material—is stretched. By filtering out steady-state components of a voltage signal obtained from the net, instances where the net is being stretched can be identified. A value obtained by integrating (i.e., summing) the voltage output over the course of a stretch event is compared to various thresholds to identify the nature of the event. In certain embodiments, the fact that a shot has been made is transmitted wirelessly to a basketball-performance tracking application running on a mobile electronic computing device.

Abstract: A basketball shooting instruction device for use on a ground surface is provided with a feet positioning assembly, a support pole fixedly connected to a foundation juncture of the feet positioning assembly, and a shot box positioned on an upper end of the support pole.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for tracking a dribbling and/or passing motion associated with a person engaged in either a training session for a sporting event or the live play of the sporting event. In sporting events, a dribbling motion can be associated with a repetitive movement or a short trajectory sequence between changes of direction of a ball, puck or other object used in the sporting event. A passing motion can be associated with the movement of the ball, puck or other object between two people during the sporting event. The system can use one or more sensors to capture information about a person dribbling and/or passing an object and at least one processor to analyze the information to determine and evaluate one or more characteristics associated with the dribbling, the passing motion, or a transition from dribbling to passing.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for tracking a dribbling motion associated with a person engaged in either a training session for a sporting event or the live play of the sporting event. In sporting events, a dribbling motion can be associated with a repetitive movement or a short trajectory sequence between changes of direction of a ball, puck or other object used in the sporting event. The repetitive movement or short trajectory sequence used for dribbling can involve an up-and-down movement such as in basketball or a back-and-forth movement such as in soccer or hockey. The system can use one or more cameras to capture images of a person dribbling an object and at least one processor to analyze the images to determine and evaluate one or more characteristics associated with the dribbling motion.

Abstract: A sports training apparatus for training athletes to deliver a ball or other object at an appropriate arc. The sports training apparatus includes an adjustable horizontal target that is positioned between the athlete and the target. It gives guidance to the athlete at the time of release. The athlete's height, game being played, desired arc, technique employed and position on the court determine the appropriate configuration, placement, and use of the sports training apparatus described herein. Athletes use the sports training apparatus repeatedly to train, learn, and be able to repeat the desired arc for a particular shot in their sport.

Abstract: An electronics module in a gaming device includes an inertial measurement unit (“IMU”) for detecting acceleration motion, angular movements, and an optics assembly to optimally calculate a moment of impact and to predict a virtual trajectory of a virtual golf ball or other hypothetical object. The virtual trajectory of the target object may be displayed on a display screen either on the gaming device itself, on a computer, or on a television display. A haptics member, such as a vibration or sound element is positioned in the shaft housing and actuated to simulate a ball impact when the shaft housing is indicative of a swing.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a wireless basketball shot tracking system, method and processor-readable medium that allows a basketball player to train shooting from different locations as instructed by a hands-free-portable electronic device, and to track the results by a shot detector placed on the basketball goal. The shot detector is in wireless communication with the hands-free-portable electronic device. The electronic device stores whether basketball shots are made or missed from the various shooting locations, and can provide real-time shooting percentages of basketball players during basketball shooting sessions. The electronic device can provide a program mode, a play mode, a review mode and a random mode to help improve the shooting skills of a basketball player from different shooting locations on a basketball court. The electronic device can interface with external devices via a wired or wireless communications port for uploading or downloading program updates or shooting session data.

Abstract: A method in a video gaming system including a processor, a memory and a sensor system for capturing body motion is described. In one embodiment, the body motion can be associated with a person pretending to hit or launch an object, such as an object used in a sporting activity. In general, body motion can be associated with any activity involving similar body motions that are repeated during the activity. In a video game generated by the video gaming system, a consistency with which the repeated body motions are made over time can be used to determine an outcome for a single instance of the body motion. In a particular embodiment, a probability of a more desirable outcome resulting from the single instance of the body motion can increase as the consistency with which the repeated body motions are made increases.

Abstract: An antenna mounting system comprises a base, a mast extending from the base having a first bore formed through the body of the mast; and a antenna mounting assembly secured to the base having a second bore formed through the body of the antenna mounting assembly. The first and second bored are aligned such that the base and the mast are positionally secured via a pin.

Abstract: A basketball shot-tracking system comprising a wrist tracker, a net tracker, and a shot-tracking mobile application. The wrist tracker is worn on the wrist or arm of a basketball player and the net tracker is attached to the net of the basketball hoop. The wrist tracker and net tracker automatically detect shot-attempt and made-shot events, respectively, and asynchronously transmit messages to the shot-tracking mobile application reporting these events. The shot-tracking mobile application, which runs on a mobile device, such as a smart phone or tablet computer, includes program instructions that, when executed by the CPU of the wireless mobile device, causes the wireless mobile device to automatically receive and process the asynchronous event data sent by the wrist tracker and net tracker, and to automatically tabulate, store and/or display the basketball player's shooting statistics (such as total shots taken, total shots made, shooting percentage, shot locations, and the like).

Abstract: A system (234, 220, 200) for monitoring movements of one or more users and/or one or more projectiles during sports activities performed by the one or more users is provided. The one or more projectiles (200) incorporate sensors (202, 204) for sensing movements of the one or more projectiles (200) during the sports activities. A user interface (220) is used for presenting automated sports training services. A data processing arrangement (234, 232, 220) is used for analysing one or more records of the movements of the one or more projectiles (200) against reference data, for providing the automated sports training services to the one or more users via the user interface (220).

Abstract: A system and method for improving a player's efficiency in shooting by providing a player with various shooting challenge routines at which a player makes either a total number of shots or a total number shots in a row. Statistics regarding the player's performance are stored, printed and/or evaluated and the player can use the information to improve his or her efficiency at one or more of the plurality of different locations where the player shoots the basketball. In another embodiment, a measuring or detection system is used in combination with or separate from a ball launcher. The system is adapted to measure at least one of a distance of a player from the a launcher, height of a shot made by the player after catching a basketball, release angle, release time, or arc of a shot; entry angle of the basketball into a goal; hold or release time; or shot arc.

Abstract: Disclosed is a tension basketball shooting motor skill acquisition apparatus, comprising a horizontal-shaft, a rotating-arm, a sphere and a ball-axle passing through the sphere, wherein the horizontal-shaft and the ball-axle are connected via the rotating-arm, the sphere rotates around the ball-axle, the sphere, and the ball-axle and the rotating-arm rotate around the horizontal-shaft together, there is at least one device or spring between the sphere (or a fixed part of the sphere) and the rotating-arm which limits or releases the rotation of the sphere around the ball-axle; a hinge fixed on the sphere, a fingers-plate with a laser transmitter going though it connected to the hinge, wherein the fingers-plate rotates around the hinge. By means of the fingers-plate, the hinge, the sphere and the ball-axle rotating together around the horizontal-shaft and under extreme tension and guide of laser beam, the whole process of shooting at the basket is simulated orientationally.

Abstract: A device and method pertaining to a basketball shooting aiming aid, which is positioned at a rear side of a transparent basketball goal apparatus and provides a rear target at which a shooter may aim when shooting a bank shot, which target is independent of the shooter's position on the court at the moment of shooting. A minimum impingement height line is also provided so that when a basketball impinges the backboard above this line and along a line toward the rear target, the basketball will reflect downwardly at an angle of at least 32 degrees, increasing the chance of moving through the rim.

Abstract: A free throw training aid including a frame adapted for positioning on a floor below a hoop attached to a backboard. The free throw training aid includes a pair of spaced apart ball guides attached to the frame, extending diagonally from the frame along a plane that lies substantially perpendicular to the backboard. A substantially horizontal standard attaches between the pair of spaced apart ball guides. A shooter is intended to shoot a basketball over the horizontal and between the spaced apart ball guides. Visual feedback is provided to the shooter or an observer by comparing the angle of the based upon a comparison of the pair of spaced apart ball guides to a flight of the ball after it passes over the horizontal standard and upon its decent to the rim and the entry angle as the ball enters the hoop.

Abstract: A basketball training device that is usable trains basketball players to sweep the ball low when dribbling against and opposing player or protect the ball if they are being defended by an opposing player with high hands is disclosed. The training device includes a base with a friction surface to engage the gym floor. Upright fibers are able to bend upon contact with a ball and regain their original position.

Abstract: A basketball throw training device is provided and includes, a device support structure, a ball path indictor, wherein the ball path indictor includes a top indicator surface having a first indicator end separated from a second indicator end via an indicator center portion, wherein the ball path indicator is movably associated with the device support structure such that the ball path indicator is configurable between varying heights, wherein the first indicator end is configurable to a first height and the second indicator end is configurable to a second height.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a device for training proper finger spacing on a basketball ball at the time of releasing the ball. The basketball training devices provided herein maintain two adjacent fingers in comfortably spaced relation to enable the player to support and release the ball from those two fingers, thereby increasing the player's control of the ball and improving the accuracy of the basketball shot. A method for maintaining two adjacent fingers of a basketball player's hand in spaced and angled relation when shooting a basketball is provided. A method for making the training device is also provided.

Abstract: The reconfigurable sports training device includes a main base frame, a plurality of primary attachment components, a plurality of secondary attachment components, and a plurality of accessories so that one or more of the attachment components and accessories can be selectively coupled to the main base frame to form a user-defined sports training device. The main base frame includes a movable rack having a plurality of shelves for storing balls thereon and hollow corner posts. Each corner post has an attachment fixture disposed at the top to enable selective coupling of the attachment components and accessories in various combinations. When assembled, the primary and secondary attachment components form a framework to which the accessories can be mounted.

Abstract: A training system for skill development may include a device that includes a casing having an internal housing and an outside surface. A plurality of number displays may be enclosed within the internal housing of the casing. A circuit board may be enclosed within the internal housing of the casing and connected to the plurality of number displays. A power source may be attached to the casing. At least one upper arm comprising an upper arm joint may be attached to the outside surface of the casing. At least one lower arm comprising a lower arm joint may be attached to the outside surface of the casing. A fastening device may be attached to the at least one lower arm. The training system may be placed on a surface and be used to help develop the skill of a person keeping their eyes up while performing a function.

Abstract: A basketball return apparatus for collecting and returning basketballs includes a ball collector, with a top opening and a bottom opening, and a ball returner. The ball returner is connected to a base for receiving balls from the bottom opening of the ball collector and returning the balls to a user. A rotatable support mechanism connects the ball collector to the base so that the ball collector is rotatable with respect to the base and the ball returner.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a wireless shot tracking system including a programmable electronic unit that is in electrical communication with a shot detector for automatically tracking and displaying real-time shooting percentages of basketball players during basketball shooting sessions, and a telescoping pole for mounting the shot detector to a basketball rim from the ground. The programmable electronic unit provides a program mode, a play mode, a review mode and a random mode to help improve the shooting skills of a basketball player from different shooting locations on a basketball court. The shot detector includes one or more vibration sensors to detect missed shots, and an activator that extends along a horizontal axis in a central region of the basketball hoop to detect made shots. The programmable electronic unit interfaces with a computer via a USB port for uploading or downloading program updates or shooting session data.

Abstract: The present invention is a system useful in returning a basketball to an individual by recognizing the individual's location relative to the basketball hoop. The system may further adjust its position to deliver the basketball to a person's location or the location to which the individual is moving by further recognizing the trajectory and pace of the individual, such as with the use of GPS devices.

Abstract: A device (1) for ball-throwing training has a base (4) and at least two vertical guide posts (30, 31) longitudinally adjusted relative to each other. One end of one of the guide posts (30) is positioned at the base (4) and a distal end of another guide post (31) is positioned at the spacer element (35). A covering surface (2) is fixed to the spacer element (35) so as to at least partially obscure the view of a throwing target, and has an extendible screen (20) and a stretch frame (23). The spacer element (35) is arranged, on the side of the guide post (31) that lies opposite the stand base, in such a manner that the covering surface (2) normally is arranged at right angles to the spacer element (35). In that position, the ground projection areas of covering surface (2) and stand base (4) do not overlap.

Abstract: The invention relates to a ball, particularly for basketball practice, and to the method for manufacturing same. The ball includes an inflatable bladder (1) covered with one or more flexible elongate elements (2) wound around the surface of the bladder. The ball also includes an outer covering comprising at least two outer panels (3) separated by at least one strip (4) of elastomeric material. The outer panels and the strip(s) are placed directly onto the wound flexible elongate element(s). The manufacture method particularly involves covering the inflatable bladder with the flexible elongate element(s) wound on the surface of the bladder, and placing the outer covering, including the outer panels separated by the strip(s) of elastomeric material. The placement of the outer covering is achieved by placing the outer panels and the strip(s) directly onto the wound flexible elongate element(s).

Abstract: A training sled including a pair of nonlinear runners is disclosed arranged in parallel relative to a center axis and a plane. A head crossbar may extend between first ends of the runners and may be joined thereto so as to form a U-shaped member with the runners. A weight bearing member may be affixed to and extend between the pair of nonlinear runners near mid-sections thereof. A rear crossbar may extend between and may be disposed above the plane of the runners proximate second ends thereof and may be joined thereto opposite the head crossbar.

Abstract: A disclosed device provides a trajectory detection and feedback system. The system is capable of detecting one or more moving objects in free flight, analyzing a trajectory of each object and providing immediate feedback information to a human that has launched the object into flight, and/or one or more observers in the area. In a particular embodiment, a non-intrusive machine vision system that remotely detects trajectories of moving objects may be used to evaluate trajectory parameters for a basketball shot at a basketball hoop by a player. The feedback information, such as a trajectory entry angle into the basketball hoop and/or an entry velocity into the hoop for the shot, may be output to the player in an auditory format using a sound projection device. The system may be operable to be set-up and to operate in a substantially autonomous manner.

Abstract: An adjustable basketball training apparatus comprising an upper portion having a horizontal obstruction supported by one or more support members and a lower portion movably attached to said support members such that the height of the horizontal obstruction may be adjusted to force a player to release a basketball with a desirable trajectory toward the intended target, such as a basket or another player, and methods for use thereof. The training apparatus is adjustable and may include vertical obstructions extending from the horizontal obstruction, attachments that simulate all or part of a defender, means for distracting a player, and a ball storage rack.

Abstract: The subject innovation includes a rebound device which is capable of receiving a ball or any object projected by a user in a substantially downward direction and projecting the same ball or object back to the user in a substantially upward direction in order to allow the user to catch through the use of a rebound surface or net. The rebound surface or net is positioned and angled to receive balls or objects projected downwards from any side of the user and to return or propel those projected balls or objects back to the user.

Abstract: A ball shooting training apparatus comprises a support member. An arm receiving strut is coupled to the support member and extends in a rearward direction, and is configured for receiving an upper arm of a user. A guide support configured for receiving a forearm of the user is coupled to the support member and extends upward to a distal end to form a substantially 90 degree angle with the arm receiving strut. A support rod is coupled to the support member and extends upward from the arm receiving strut. A shot completion engagement is disposed at or near the distal end of the support rod, and in front of and above the distal end of the guide support.

Abstract: This invention presents a basketball training device which resembles a mannequin that defends against basketball players with a series of blocking motions. When a proximity sensor detects an approaching player, a control unit initiates waving of forearms, raising/lowering of upper arms, chopping motion of arms and torso raising and lowering. An audio circuit plays music or realistic background noises. When convex bottom of primary base is placed on a floor, weight of ballast and rechargeable batteries allows the device to return to an upright position when tipped. A gyroscopic unit within a control unit can activate when the device tips to ensure return of the device to an upright position. Alternatively, the unit can be placed with the secondary base, which features castors that allow the unit to roll when stuck and facilitates placement on a basketball court.

Abstract: A game apparatus comprising a mount and a goal can be attached to basketball hoops and serve as a target. This allows a basketball court to be used for an entirely new game using said game apparatus and flying sport discs. The method of playing includes two teams of players, each attempting to score on one target while preventing the opposing team from scoring on a separate target. Players may move with, pass, and shoot the flying sport disc. Points are accumulated for goals scored when the flying sport disc is thrown through a target. The basketball court provides ready markings used for shots, throw-ins, and defining out of bounds in the present game method.

Abstract: An intra-digital orthosis for use in shooting a ball such as a basketball comprising: index and ring finger receptacles each having an aperture; a middle finger backstop; and first and second shafts joining the index and ring finger receptacles to the middle finger backstop. The orthosis preferably spaces apart and/or encourages flexion of the distal phalanges of at least a user's index and ring fingers and/or facilitates an arch angle between those fingers and the user's middle finger that approximates the curvature of the ball being thrown so as to facilitate and enhance the user's ability to position the hand when shooting the ball.

Abstract: A sport team game that combines different ball games allowing the athlete to perform at different skill levels, depending on the ball sport team game. The sport team game includes a court having a first end, a second end, a first sideline, a second sideline, a midline passing through a middle point of the court and running from the first sideline to the second sideline and a central circle circumscribed about the center of the midline. Landing strips are located near the end of the court. Trap zones are located near each landing strip. Basket goals are located above each trap zone. Floor goals are located under the basket goals. The three-points line extends around each landing strip. The sport game is played under the rules of at least two different ball games.

Abstract: A basketball training device having at least one elongated and vertically extending post with at least two longitudinally spaced openings. At least one elongated arm has one end insertable into one of the spaced openings on the post so that the arm extends horizontally outwardly from the post. A basketball player practices dribbling by dribbling both under the arm and over the arm as desired.

Abstract: The present application is directed to a pair of treadable foot locators operationally configured for successive step footwork of an individual when attempting a basketball shot.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus related to improving player performance for trajectory-based sports are described. In particular, sporting devices are described that can be utilized to improve player performance in basketball. The sporting devices can include a camera-based system configured to capture and analyze the trajectory of a shot taken by a player. The camera-based system can be configured to provide feedback that allows a player to optimize the trajectory mechanics associated with shooting a basketball. In one embodiment, the camera-based system can be used in conjunction with a training aid that is attached to a basketball rim. The training aid can be configured to improve the trajectory mechanics of individuals utilizing the modified basketball rim to practice their shooting.

Abstract: A direct prize-dispensing game dispenses prizes using a crane assembly under control of the game player. The player participates in an underlying game of the prize-dispensing game that is independent from the prize dispensing function of the crane assembly. When the player successfully achieves an object of the game entitling the player to a prize, the prize-dispensing game switches player control to the crane assembly for dispensing an associated prize selection. The player then controls the crane assembly to select a desired prize. The prize-dispensing game keeps the controls to the crane assembly until a prize is dispensed to the player.