Player Worn Or Carried Patents (Class 473/450)
  • Patent number: 8162782
    Abstract: A palm pad device, for use as a training device and to be fastened to the palm of a user, includes a segregate pad having a size-adjustable elastic pad and a fastening member for fastening the segregate pad onto the palm. The palm pad device further includes a sensing recorder disposed on the fastening member for sensing and recording movement data of the palm. The elastic pad includes a thickness pad and a width pad for allowing adjustments in the thickness and width of the segregate pad. A basketball training system using the palm pad device includes a basket sensor for recording the status of successful shots, a sensing recorder disposed on the palm pad device, and a central management apparatus for receiving data transmitted from the sensing recorder and the basket sensor for conducting analysis to thereby generate a corresponding feedback event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: National Chiao Tung University
    Inventor: Chung-Chiang Chen
  • Patent number: 8162781
    Abstract: A system and training method adapted to assist an individual in improving his or her basketball shooting skills and accuracy. The system includes an apparatus and glove that can be used independently or together. The apparatus is adapted for mounting to a basketball rim and includes flexible paddles for mounting to the rim so that the paddles project upwardly from the rim. The glove is adapted to be worn on the shooting hand and includes fingers, wrist and backhand portions. The fingers portion has three separate sleeves interconnected by elastic webs therebetween. The backhand portion interconnects the fingers portion to the wrist portion. The glove is configured so that the three middle fingers of the shooting hand are individually inserted into the sleeves and elastically held together by the webs, while allowing the thumb and outer finger of the shooting hand to spread outward and support the basketball during shooting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Ronald L. Heflin, Sr.
  • Patent number: 8152660
    Abstract: A basketball training device that simulates the presence of a defensive player more specifically the hand of a defensive player so as to provide practice shooting a basketball with at least a partially restricted view of the basketball goal. The basketball training device further includes a support pad that is releasably secured proximate the lower torso region of the user utilizing an adjustable strap. Movably connected to the support pad is a first support member and a second support member. The second support member is hingedly attached to the first support member. The basketball training device further includes a visual inhibitor movably attached to the second support member opposite the first support member. Operably coupled to the second support member distal to the first support member is an activation cord. The activation cord is further connected at the opposing end to at least one finger of the user's dominant shooting hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventors: David Jimenez, Jr., James E Terrell
  • Patent number: 8152659
    Abstract: A football holder for holding extra footballs on the side or hips of the quarterback until the quarterback is ready to throw the extra footballs. A pair of holders attach to the quarterback with a waist strap and two leg straps. Each holder has two spring-loaded cupped ends that are biased toward each other for holding the football there between. A football is inserted in the holder by spreading apart the two cupped ends and inserting the ends of the football between the two cupped ends of the holder. The bottom cupped end has a notch cut out of it to facilitate removal of the football from the holder by applying a twisting motion to the football.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: James Edward Wadley
  • Patent number: 8123635
    Abstract: An arm extension apparatus includes a base having an elongate configuration. The apparatus includes a paddle coupled to the base and having proximal and distal portions, the paddle being slidably movable relative to the base between a retracted configuration in which the proximal portion is substantially received adjacent the base and an extended configuration in which the proximal portion is substantially extended from the base. An attachment member is coupled to the base and having a configuration complementary to the person's arm, the attachment member having a strap extending therefrom for removably securing the attachment member to the person's arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventor: Gregory F. Gillis
  • Patent number: 8096901
    Abstract: A basketball training aid designed to teach a user how to correctly grip, set up, and release a basketball. The device includes a material that wraps around the top (prone side) of the hand and bottom half of the underside (supine side) of the hand, without limiting wrist extension and flexion during a basketball shot. The glove includes a splint support material on top of the index, middle, and ring fingers, running from the middle of the digits to the bottom half of the top (prone side) of hand. The splint support material prevents premature finger flexion at the base of the fingers during the release of the shot, ensuring an open hand at follow through. Additionally, the design encourages proper finger separation and proper extension of wrist joint on set up, keeps the ball off the palm of the hand, and promotes proper position for dribbling a basketball effectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Inventor: Jeremy Lyle Russotti
  • Patent number: 8052546
    Abstract: A basketball shooting training aid for releasably limiting to a predetermined maximum length the span distance between a basketball player's shooting or launch hand and guide hand comprises a pair of elastic wristlet bands secureable around opposite wrists of the player. Each wristlet has protruding outwardly therefrom a flexible, longitudinally elongated stalk which has at the outer end thereof a coupler releasably engageable with the other coupler. In a preferred embodiment, each coupler includes a permanent magnet having a longitudinally outwardly extending magnetic field of opposite polarity to that of the opposite coupler, thus enabling the couplers to automatically engage when outer ends of the stalks are brought sufficiently close to each other, e.g., about 2 inches, and to automatically disengage when a tensional parting force of a predetermined value, e.g., about 6 pounds is exerted on the couplers by drawing the wrists apart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventors: Christopher D. Nagel, William Jason Wright
  • Patent number: 8043173
    Abstract: A training system used in sports or other training that where a participant wears a device with a visual indicator such as a device emitting colored light and an optional signaling device like a vibrator or beeper. The device can be worn on the head, elbow, wrist, waist, knee, ankle or foot or be part of an participant's attire. The device can optionally be embedded in or on a shoe. A motion or position sensor can cause the visual indicator to change color or indication when the wearer is not moving correctly. Also, in some embodiments, a vibration can signal can be commanded by a coach or instructor to show that the player is not properly moving. An embedded processor can optionally set up various rhythm patterns used in practice. The device, wherever it is worn or disposed, can optionally be controlled remotely by a coach or instructor using a wireless transmission such as digital or analog radio or light to establish certain rhythms or to signal certain participants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Inventors: Nasrin Menalagha, Srini Nunna, Mir S. Rahim
  • Patent number: 8038549
    Abstract: The present invention provides a shooting aid apparatus for basketball players including a device worn by a basketball player to aid the player's shooting forearm to be kept parallel to the vertical centerline of the body during the shooting motion without any apparatus restraints. The centerline of the body is an imaginary line dividing the player vertically down the middle of his or her body. The shooting aid comprises a sleeve adapted to fit around the forearm or wrist of the shooting arm of the basketball player. The sleeve carries a light that brightly illuminates in response to the forearm of the shooter being in a vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Inventor: Kayode Teddy Vann
  • Publication number: 20110230283
    Abstract: A training aid and method assists players with shooting and ball control. A sleeve is positioned on the players arm and/or wrist. The sleeve includes markings for positioning the arm for shooting. The markings allow the player to see and be aware of the arm position while sighting the basket and shooting the basketball. The markings may include a line, dot or other marking useful in positioning the arm. The training aid may also include a squeaker in the palm. The squeaker will sound if the player fails to properly use the fingers for dribbling, shooting, passing and catching.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventor: Glen Hougen
  • Publication number: 20110130227
    Abstract: A palm pad device, for use as a training device and to be fastened to the palm of a user, includes a segregate pad having a size-adjustable elastic pad and a fastening member for fastening the segregate pad onto the palm. The palm pad device further includes a sensing recorder disposed on the fastening member for sensing and recording movement data of the palm. The elastic pad includes a thickness pad and a width pad for allowing adjustments in the thickness and width of the segregate pad. A basketball training system using the palm pad device includes a basket sensor for recording the status of successful shots, a sensing recorder disposed on the palm pad device, and a central management apparatus for receiving data transmitted from the sensing recorder and the basket sensor for conducting analysis to thereby generate a corresponding feedback event.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: NATIONAL CHIAO TUNG UNIVERSITY
    Inventor: Chung-Chiang Chen
  • Patent number: 7918765
    Abstract: The invention relates to assembly of an accessory and a shoe for providing support to a foot-drop affected foot relative to a lower leg belonging to the foot such that the loot is prevented from dropping downwards relative to the lower leg when the foot is raised by the lower from a supporting surface, the accessory being provided with a first attachment member for attachment of the accessory to the lower leg, a second attachment member for attachment of the accessory to an upper side of the shoe and a connecting body joining together the first attachment member and the second attachment member, wherein the second attachment member is provided with an attachment plate which, in use, is positioned under an upper part of the shoe. The invention also relates to the accessory of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Ossur Europe B.V.
    Inventors: Lambertus Joseph Martinus Kruijsen, Günter Gneiting
  • Publication number: 20110045925
    Abstract: An Electronic Basketball Shooting Coach device is used to recondition the mind helping people maintain the proper elbow angle range when shooting a basketball. The invention is a self-contained device worn on either arm below the elbow. The ergonomically designed device must be contained in the specially designed pocket of the sleeve before it can be attached below the elbow. The sleeve wraps around the upper-arm below the elbow and is held in place by hook and loop materials. The device has no internal movable parts. The device will articulate a phrase when you past the programmed non-adjustable trip point range. The device has a sleep mode to save on the common single cell's power and is reactivated by movement. The non-adjustable knob must be positioned up towards the fingers and aligned with the thumb or little finger. Two single cell sources must be added to energize the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2010
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventor: Rashan Christopher Moye
  • Patent number: 7854668
    Abstract: A signal projecting device wearable on an athlete about to throw a projectile, such as shooting a basketball. The device incorporates a leveling sensor arranged to provide an input signal to the projecting device so that a signal indicative of a body part on which the projecting device is mounted being horizontal with respect to a floor or ground surface. The projecting device may project a generally cruciform light beam of one characteristic, such as color or light pattern, when the horizontal condition is sensed. A second light beam of a different characteristic may be projected when the horizontal condition is not sensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Inventor: Lance Shelton
  • Publication number: 20100273585
    Abstract: The present invention provides a shooting aid apparatus for basketball players including a device worn by a basketball player to aid the player's shooting forearm to be kept parallel to the vertical centerline of the body during the shooting motion without any apparatus restraints. The centerline of the body is an imaginary line dividing the player vertically down the middle of his or her body. The shooting aid comprises a sleeve adapted to fit around the forearm or wrist of the shooting arm of the basketball player. The sleeve carries a light that brightly illuminates in response to the forearm of the shooter being in a vertical position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Inventor: Kayode Teddy Vann
  • Publication number: 20100261558
    Abstract: A system and training method adapted to assist an individual in improving his or her basketball shooting skills and accuracy. The system includes an apparatus and glove that can be used independently or together. The apparatus is adapted for mounting to a basketball rim and includes flexible paddles for mounting to the rim so that the paddles project upwardly from the rim. The glove is adapted to be worn on the shooting hand and includes fingers, wrist and backhand portions. The fingers portion has three separate sleeves interconnected by elastic webs therebetween. The backhand portion interconnects the fingers portion to the wrist portion. The glove is configured so that the three middle fingers of the shooting hand are individually inserted into the sleeves and elastically held together by the webs, while allowing the thumb and outer finger of the shooting hand to spread outward and support the basketball during shooting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventor: Ronald L. Heflin, SR.
  • Patent number: 7771293
    Abstract: The present invention provides a shooting aid for basketball players including a device worn by a basketball player to aid the player's shooting forearm to be kept parallel to the centerline of the body during the shooting motion without any apparatus restraints. The centerline of the body is an imaginary line dividing the player vertically down the middle of his or her body. The shooting aid comprises a sleeve adapted to fit around the forearm or wrist of the shooting arm of the basketball player. The sleeve carries a light that brightly illuminates in response to the forearm of the shooter being in a vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Inventor: Kayode Teddy Vann
  • Patent number: 7749110
    Abstract: The present invention provides a tennis training systems. Methods of practicing and teaching tennis are also provided herein. In one aspect, the training system employs an elongated, elastic cord having a proximal end and a distal end, a vibration dampener configured to be received within a string bed of a racket and operatively connected to the proximal end of the cord, and a connection disc operatively connected to the distal end of the cord. The vibration dampener is connected to the proximal end of the cord by means of an integral loop. Optionally, the connection disc is releasably connected to the distal end of the cord by means of an integral loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Great Southern Corporation
    Inventor: Morris Bozof
  • Patent number: 7722472
    Abstract: This invention relates generally to billiards, and more specifically, to systems and methods for providing a billiards stroke training device. In one embodiment, the invention includes a harness, a sleeve, a guide, the guide being coupled to the sleeve; and a post, the post being coupled to the harness, the post being configurable to limit motion of the guide, wherein the harness is configurable to being worn on an upper torso of a billiards player, wherein the sleeve is configurable to being worn on an arm of the billiards player, and wherein motion of the arm of the billiards player is limited to that provided for by the guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Inventors: Chris Cameron, Anah Cameron
  • Patent number: 7654921
    Abstract: A batting training aid and method of use to improve baseball players' batting stance and swinging motion. The stance is characterized by a high center of gravity, erect posture with one leg forward, and the other backward. The proper swinging motion is around a vertical axis. The batting training aid comprises: a waist belt; an anklet; a stirrup attached to the anklet; a strap connected at one end to the belt and at the other to the anklet. The length of the strap is adjusted to a predetermined length set to the maximum separation between the back ankle and the waist and configured to force players into the proper batting stance and proper swinging motion. The method of use comprises adjusting the length of strap; adopting batting stance; batting at ball; sensing a tug between the waist and the ankle; and correcting the batting stance to eliminate the tug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Inventor: Steven J. Brunst
  • Patent number: 7648430
    Abstract: A sports vision training device is formed from a piece of material having a thickness sufficient to interfere with an individual's ability to look down at a sporting object. The piece of material has an adhesive coating or layer for positioning the material on an individual's cheek, preferably beneath an individual's eye, so that the piece of material interferes with the individual's ability to look down at the sporting object. The sports vision training device has a thickness sufficient to direct the individual's vision toward the field of play and up and toward at least one player on the field of play, and in some cases permitting intermittent and/or momentary glances at the sports object being controlled by the individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Inventor: Paul R. Gagnon
  • Publication number: 20090318248
    Abstract: A basketball training aid designed to teach a user how to correctly grip, set up, and release a basketball. The device includes a material that wraps around the top (prone side) of the hand and bottom half of the underside (supine side) of the hand, without limiting wrist extension and flexion during a basketball shot. The glove includes a splint support material on top of the index, middle, and ring fingers, running from the middle of the digits to the bottom half of the top (prone side) of hand. The splint support material prevents premature finger flexion at the base of the fingers during the release of the shot, ensuring an open hand at follow through. Additionally, the design encourages proper finger separation and proper extension of wrist joint on set up, keeps the ball off the palm of the hand, and promotes proper position for dribbling a basketball effectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2008
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventor: Jeremy Lyle Russotti
  • Publication number: 20090298621
    Abstract: A basketball shooting coach aid device used to help individuals learn how to keep their elbow tucked to the side of their body while keeping the forearm and elbow at a 90 degree angle while shooting a basketball. The basketball shooting coach is a self contained square in shape device that is worn or either the right or left arm depending on the individual wearing the unit. The device consists of a speaker, IC voice chip, batteries, arm straps, and an adjustable sensitivity switch all enclosed in a light weight plastic cover. The basketball shooting aid casing will have a speaker grille to help increase the volume, a sensitivity control cavity to control how sensitive the device is, a Velcro straps that allow the device to fit over an individual's forearm, and an on and off switch. If the alarm sounds when the individual uses the device then the individual is using bad form.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventor: Rashan Christopher Moye
  • Patent number: 7621830
    Abstract: A device and method of use in learning, practicing and perfecting softball pitching motions comprising, a practice glove worn on the pitching hand having multiple finger portions each with an extending indicator element removably positioned thereon. The indicator elements extending as independent elongated flexible bands removably secured and attached on the ends of index finger portion tabs of the adjacent finger portion. By practicing the pitching motion, the relative position of the indicator bands will confirm and teach proper pitching arm and hand position through the multiple underhand pitching sequence of softball pitching action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Strikeout Strippz LLC
    Inventor: Jack Kucek
  • Publication number: 20090253527
    Abstract: The embodiment of this athletic training device is for restricting the flexion of the elbow joint of the arm. A stretchable arm sleeve 16 is designed to encircle the arm 22 to be trained. A segment of loop Velcro 18 is adhered to the sleeve starting at the elbow joint 24 and extending toward the wrist on the dorsal surface of the lower arm 14. A separate 90 degree training block 10 made of polyethylene foam with hook Velcro 20 adhered is fastened to the loop Velcro 18 on the stretchable arm sleeve 16 to provide a physical barrier for flexing the elbow joint 24. The athlete can use the device for training in multiple sports. The most common use for the device is for limiting the elbow joint 24 angle to 90 degrees while training for basketball, golf and sprinting or running. The device does not restrict extension of the arm 22.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Michael Abraham
  • Patent number: 7582030
    Abstract: A muscle memory training glove for basketball having a palm portion for covering the palm of the wearer's hand formed with a first opening for receiving the fingers and hands. A plurality of finger coverings communicate with the palm portion at a first end of the palm portion opposite the first opening. Each finger covering has an opening at a distal end thereof allowing the fingers of a user to extend therebetween. A separating structure maintains a respective one of each finger covering a predetermined spaced distance from an adjacent finger covering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Inventor: Gary LaPergola
  • Patent number: 7563183
    Abstract: A device and method of use in learning, practicing and perfecting a baseball pitching motion comprising, a practice glove worn on the pitching hand having a pair of finger portions and a pair of extending directional indicator elements removably positioned thereon. The indicator elements extending as independent elongated flexible band ribbons attached on the ends of the index finger portion and adjacent finger portion. By practicing the pitching motion, the relative position of the indicator bands will confirm and teach proper pitching arm and hand position through the multiple pitching sequence of the pitching action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Strikeout Strippz LLC
    Inventor: Jack Kucek
  • Patent number: 7544138
    Abstract: An apparatus, that places an object ball in the palm of both hands of an athlete, for training the athlete to catch a thrown sports ball with fingertips and thumb tips rather than palms. The size of the object ball can be increased as the athlete's skill level improves. This apparatus teaches the athlete to control the sports ball with the fingertips and thumb tips. Because this apparatus is small and lightweight it can be used for training as well as performance enhancement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Inventors: Mark A. Weber, Lance Strother
  • Publication number: 20090042674
    Abstract: A signal projecting device wearable on an athlete about to throw a projectile, such as shooting a basketball. The device incorporates a leveling sensor arranged to provide an input signal to the projecting device so that a signal indicative of a body part on which the projecting device is mounted being horizontal with respect to a floor or ground surface. The projecting device may project a generally cruciform light beam of one characteristic, such as color or light pattern, when the horizontal condition is sensed. A second light beam of a different characteristic may be projected when the horizontal condition is not sensed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Inventor: Lance Shelton
  • Patent number: 7465243
    Abstract: An apparatus for practicing baseball and softball hitting skills includes a ball holder on a rod that is suspended by a single degree of freedom support at an interior point of the rod length and the rod is balanced and proportioned relative to the support point and the ball in order to position a ball at any three-dimensional location in the hitting zone of the batter in a stable state by manual movement of the opposite balanced end of the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventor: Bryson Mimms Cramer
  • Publication number: 20080280705
    Abstract: A muscle memory training glove for basketball having a palm portion for covering the palm of the wearer's hand formed with a first opening for receiving the fingers and hands. A plurality of finger coverings communicate with the palm portion at a first end of the palm portion opposite the first opening. Each finger covering has an opening at a distal end thereof allowing the fingers of a user to extend therebetween. A separating structure maintains a respective one of each finger covering a predetermined spaced distance from an adjacent finger covering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Applicant: SHOOTING STAR BASKETBALL
    Inventor: Gary LaPergola
  • Patent number: 7442133
    Abstract: A shooting and training aid for basketball players to prevent interference of the non-shooting hand when shooting a basketball. This interference is caused by the non-shooting hand unnecessarily providing force for the shot as well as the fingers on the non-shooting hand dragging on the side of the ball. The shooting and training aid is provided with several adjustable members which ultimately would wind around the arms of the non-shooting hand, include a loop attached to the base of the thumb of the non-shooting hand as well as a pocket member into which at least the tip of the middle finger of the non-shooting hand is inserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Star Shooter Company, LLC
    Inventor: Jay W. Wolf
  • Patent number: 7399240
    Abstract: The invention is a basketball training device for training players of all ages and skill levels how to shoot a basketball and/or how to play defense. The device comprises at least one elongated piece of substantially flexible material having two opposing ends, the ends secured together to define a substantially circular flexible device, the device being worn around a player's legs, wrists and/or hands. The device provides tension and support to the player's legs, wrists and/or hands, wherein the tension keeps the player's legs, wrists and/or hands in a desired basketball position. In a preferred version, the tension further provides at least some degree of feedback to the player when the player's legs, wrists and/or hands assume an undesired basketball position. The device may be used to train a player in offense (i.e., shooting) as well as defense.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Inventors: Michael S. Paukert, Dorothy A. Paukert
  • Patent number: 7374502
    Abstract: A device for learning pitching technique for ball games and improving muscle strength through resistance training. The device, which consists of an elongated U shaped coiled tubular spring with a curved end and pair of straight parallel shaft portions with solid tips, is aligned with and strapped to the user's pitching forearm. The device adjusts to fit the forearm. A rod or elastic string is fitted through a sleeve in the ball's internal polar tunnel, and the opposing ends of the rod or string are attached to the tips so that the ball can be spun around the rod or bounced on the string, to simulate pitching. A shock absorbent casing on the curved end and strap increases comfort. Opposing ends of an elastic band can be attached to the device and a stable object, such as a pole, to perform resistance training.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Inventor: Carlo J. Comello, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20080102971
    Abstract: A device and method are provided for training a person to swing a bat or club while rotating the person's hips. The device includes a belt for attaching around a person's hips, a restraint device attached to the back side of the belt, and an anchor system slidably attached to the restraint device. The restraint device can be a nylon strap sewn to the back side of the belt. The anchor system comprises a flexible member, such as a rope, with a first ring attached at one end for slidable attachment to the restraint device. The other end of the anchor system can be tethered to a stationary object or held by a coach. A clip can be attached to the restraint device for limiting the extent of movement of the anchor system along the restraint device and for providing a reference point for swing training.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2006
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventor: Sandra L. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20070270247
    Abstract: A shooting and training aid for basketball players to prevent interference of the non-shooting hand when shooting a basketball. This interference is caused by the non-shooting hand unnecessarily providing force for the shot as well as the fingers on the non-shooting hand dragging on the side of the ball. The shooting and training aid is provided with several adjustable members which ultimately would wind around the arms of the non-shooting hand, include a loop attached to the base of the thumb of the non-shooting hand as well as a pocket member into which at least the tip of the middle finger of the non-shooting hand is inserted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Publication date: November 22, 2007
    Inventor: Jay W. Wolf
  • Publication number: 20070270248
    Abstract: A basketball training aid designed to teach and keep the user's hand in the proper position to correctly shoot and release a basketball. The basketball training aid is of a material that adapts to individual fit, receives a user's fingers comfortably and worn at the base of the fingers. The design encourages proper finger separation, spacing of a ball off the palm and continual development of correct habits throughout its wear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Publication date: November 22, 2007
    Inventor: Robert A. Ffrench
  • Patent number: 7172522
    Abstract: A basketball training device and method for teaching the proper technique to shoot a basketball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Inventor: Charles David Harvey
  • Patent number: 7074139
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for training a trainee to achieve or maintain proper throwing technique by attaining proper form, position, and movement of the legs, hips, torso, and shoulders of the trainee and without the use of the throwing arm of the trainee. An apparatus in accordance with the present invention includes a harness to be worn about the torso of the trainee, wherein the harness is configured to releasably support thereon a training projectile which is configured to be launched from is supported position on the harness as a result of a training maneuver which does not involve the throwing arm of trainee. A method in accordance with the present invention includes providing a training projectile, releasably supporting the projectile proximate a throwing shoulder of the trainee, executing a training maneuver and launching the projectile as a result of the execution of the training maneuver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Inventor: Christopher A. Vogel
  • Patent number: 7066847
    Abstract: The invention catches and stores pucks and balls. The frame consists of two U-shaped members. The two U-shaped frame members are joined by a plurality of members. Members attach the top and bottom of the two U-shaped members together. Further members join the two legs of each U-shaped members. The attaching members support a floor for the device. The device is covered with a flexible mesh covering. The device also has a carrying strap attached to the top of the two U-shaped members. The device has a ramp with elevated sides and with slots at one end of the elevated sides. The ramp is attached to one of the U-shaped members by pins through the slots. When opened, the the ramp or lid descends to the surface at an angle. When the ramp or lid is closed, it is parallel to the U-shaped member to which it is attached and is locked in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Dale Power
  • Patent number: 6976272
    Abstract: A universal visual shield apparatus, for use with a hockey helmet, is usable for training hockey players by partially blocking a user's field of vision. The apparatus includes a main shield body formed from an elastically deformable material, and is attachable to the helmet using connectors. The main shield body includes a horizontal floor portion and a vertical edge portion that cooperate to block a user from seeing the puck while it is in the user's possession, while still allowing the user to see forward. When worn, the apparatus forces the user to look forward, beyond the puck and stick. The apparatus may include adjustable apparatus straps, and can be used on any sized helmet without modifying the helmet or the apparatus. Because the apparatus is soft and crushable, the apparatus will not harm the user or another player if they are involved in a collision on the ice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: I2 Innovative Ideas
    Inventors: Edward Krzysik, Jr., John DeMartino
  • Patent number: 6896631
    Abstract: A device and method for training a person to move their arm in the vertical plane as a person throws, tosses or rolls and object. The device includes a flap that attaches either to the body or the clothing of the person being trained. The flap extends out laterally from the side of the body. As a person throws, tosses or rolls an object with an underhand motion, that person's arm will contact the flap if the arm is moving in the vertical plane. This provides a person with a tactile indication as to whether or not they are moving the arm in proper form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Inventor: Michael J. Fairchild
  • Patent number: 6887170
    Abstract: A hockey goalie-training device for teaching a goalie to keep his arms from moving behind or away from his body is provided. A garment has an arm-restricting bar removeably attached to the garment. The device teaches the goalie to keep his hands and arms positioned such that shots cannot be completed by passing a puck between his body and his arms to score a goal. The device also trains the goalie to keep his hands positioned properly on certain movements and saves such that shots cannot pass easily by the goalie, due to proper hand position. The bar is attached to a bar holding block on the garment placed in a desired location on the goalies chest. Belts or straps over the goalies shoulders or around the goalies' waist can aid in holding the bar in place. The garment can be a jersey or a padded protective suit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventors: Robert T. Stauber, Michael M. Stapf
  • Patent number: 6846254
    Abstract: A sports training device with a breakaway feature, includes a first yoke for removable attachment to a first wrist of a user and a second yoke for removable attachment to a second wrist of the user, and a breakaway connecting strap. The first yoke and second yoke are made of flexible material, being elongated, with a middle portion and two opposing ends. The opposing ends have complementary attachment mechanisms for removably attaching them to one another. The second yoke has a temporary attachment breakaway feature to connect to the strap at the middle portion of the second yoke. The connecting strap has a first end permanently attached to the middle portion of the first yoke, and a second end temporary yoke attachment for attachment to the second yoke, creating a predetermined breakaway resistance when connected to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Inventor: Malcolm M. Baxter
  • Patent number: 6755755
    Abstract: A sports skills training arrangement, which is provided to promote muscle memory of a user, includes an arm loop strap adapted for fittingly encircling an upper arm of the user, a tension strap having a first end and a second end attached to the arm loop strap, a body connector affixed to the first end of the tension strap for detachably attaching to a waist portion of the user, a waist adjuster defining a control portion of the tension strap between the second end thereof and the waist adjuster and a waist loop portion of the tension strap for fittingly fastening around the waist portion of the user, and a length adjustment buckle for adjusting a length of the control portion of the tension strap. Therefore, a distance between the arm and the waist portion of the user is limited to promote coordinated arm and body movements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Inventor: James Cheng Wah Loh
  • Publication number: 20040087392
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for training a trainee to achieve or maintain proper throwing technique by attaining proper form, position, and movement of the legs, hips, torso, and shoulders of the trainee and without the use of the throwing arm of the trainee. An apparatus in accordance with the present invention includes a harness to be worn about the torso of the trainee, wherein the harness is configured to releasably support thereon a training projectile which is configured to be launched from is supported position on the harness as a result of a training maneuver which does not involve the throwing arm of trainee. A method in accordance with the present invention includes providing a training projectile, releasably supporting the projectile proximate a throwing shoulder of the trainee, executing a training maneuver and launching the projectile as a result of the execution of the training maneuver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Christopher A. Vogel
  • Patent number: 6729979
    Abstract: A basketball shooting trainer device for teaching a user to correctly shoot and release a basketball. The basketball shooting trainer device includes a piece of material having a top edge and a bottom edge and being adapted to removably cover a back of a user's basketball shooting hand; and also includes tubular finger members extending from the top edge of the piece of material and being adapted to fittingly receive a user's fingers; and further includes a finger wedge being attached to the piece of material for keeping a user's middle two fingers spread apart; and also includes a support member being attached to the piece of material; and also includes a strap assembly being attached along the bottom edge of the piece of material and being adapted to removably fasten about a user's wrist to support the piece of material upon the user's basketball shooting hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Timothy D. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 6712722
    Abstract: A basketball shot training device including a platform having a lower surface and an upper surface. The lower surface is positionable on a flat recipient surface. The upper surface receives a practicing player's feet thereon in a standing orientation. A tether is provided having a first end and a second end. The first end is adjustably secured to the platform. A glove is coupled with the second end of the tether. The glove has an opening therein for receiving a hand of the practicing player therein. The device is capable of detecting the angle and position of the glove following a shot to ascertain whether a shot was properly executed with the requisite “follow-through”.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: Gerald Mosley
  • Publication number: 20030211906
    Abstract: An athletic training device increases the effective height of a defensive player by the use of a blocking device that includes a blocking surface attached to a vertical support which is carried by the defensive player. The vertical support holds the blocking surface elevated above the head of the defensive player. The blocking surface is provided by a substantially planar sheet shaped and/or decorated to be the simulated upper portion of a defensive player with arms extended. The vertical support is held upright by a torso encircling harness carried by the defensive player. The vertical support includes two telescopically coupled tubes having a locking nut for fixing the degree of telescopic engagement of the two tubes to adjust the height of the blocking surface with respect to the defensive player.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventors: Bennie Seltzer, Darryl Woods
  • Patent number: 6645093
    Abstract: A basketball shot trainer for controlling the movement of the user's shooting arm in a predetermined direction and predetermined elbow placement. The shooter's arm is connected to an arm bar such that the shooting arm and elbow pivot in a predetermined manner relative to the user's torso. The shooting arm is held in the desired position on the user by means of a back plate which supports the arm bar for pivotal movement to control movement of the user's shooting arm. The arm bar has a guide portion which is secured to the user's shooting arm by an arm band which controls movement of the shooting arm in a predetermined vertical plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: Mark C. Sheppard