Abstract: A training apparatus for assisting a person shooting a basketball includes a first wearable member for being equipped on a person's arm, a loop for slidably fitting on the person's other arm, and a bridge for connecting the first wearable member and the loop. The bridge provides feedback to the person while a shooting motion is being executed, thereby promoting consistency in the person's shooting form.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for a baseball and softball swing trainer that includes being an adjustable swing trainer which can be adjusted for height, for angular relationship with ground and batter, and to the angular relationship for different heights of strike zones for batters of different height by providing adjustable means disposed on an upright standing elongated rod mounted on a base stand. The device includes adjustments for changing the height of the device relative to the ball height, and also to the bat angle, and also to the batter's strike zone without actually using a ball as part of the trainer. The fork member is made out of plastic or other non-breakable, flexible material to allow it to be durable and not to break when hit by the bat. An adjustable fork and various sizes of fixed forks are also provided so that the distance between the forks vary according to the batting skill of the batter.

Abstract: An intelligent ball passing system is provided, including: a ball passing robot configured for carrying out a ball passing action according to human body postures, including: a video capture device configured for acquiring human body posture data, a movement mechanism configured for driving the ball passing robot to move according to a ball passing instruction, and a central processing module connected to the movement mechanism and the video capture device respectively; and a software system configured for controlling the ball passing robot to carry out the ball passing action, the central processing module recognizing and classifying the human body postures by using the software system that uses a BP neural network.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to a system, program product, and method for use and an artificial intelligence (AI) platform to identify and analyze physical forces related to sensory input. A sensor operatively coupled to an inertial measurement unit (IMU) is activated. An initial position of the IMU responsive to the sensor activation is captured and movement of the IMU from the initial position is recognized. A comparison is preformed, where the captured initial position is compared to a second position which is correlated with the recognized movement. A score based on the performed comparison is determined and a diagnostic assessment based on the performed comparison and determined score is created. The diagnostic assessment is converted to feedback, where the conversion utilizes real-time communication of an instruction of a second movement position of the IMU. Receipt of the feedback physically conveys a manifestation of the feedback to the apparatus.

Abstract: A method for ball game training, the method comprising steps executed by at least one computer, the steps comprising: receiving image data of a player and a ball, the image data being captured using at least two cameras, using the received image data, tracking motion of the player and motion of the ball in three dimensions, based on the tracked motions, predicting a position of the player and a trajectory of the ball, and based on the predicted position and trajectory, generating a control command for at least one ball throwing machine.

Abstract: Hitting training devices having a structural base, a vertical member extending upward from the structural base, a horizontal carriage having a horizontal carriage weight, a ball attached to the horizontal carriage, and a force balancing member arranged and configured to counteract the horizontal carriage weight are disclosed. The hitting training devices may be configured such that the horizontal carriage is attached to the vertical member, the horizontal carriage is configured to move horizontally with respect to the vertical member, the horizontal carriage is configured to move vertically with respect to the vertical member, the circumference of the ball is less than 13 inches, the horizontal carriage has a horizontal carriage range of horizontal motion of at least fourteen inches; and the horizontal carriage has a horizontal carriage range of vertical motion of at least sixteen inches.

Abstract: Embodiments provide a ball throwing machine including a motor coupled to a rotary wheel and configured to rotate the rotary wheel at a rotational speed to throw a ball forward toward an athlete. A speed control module may be coupled to the motor and configured to rotate the rotary wheel, via the motor, at a first rotational speed during a fastball setting and a second rotational speed during a changeup setting. The speed control module may determine the second rotational speed based on the first rotational speed so that a ball thrown by the ball throwing machine will arrive in a target zone when the ball throwing machine is in the fastball setting and the changeup setting.

Abstract: A secure repair kiosk system is provided for receiving items/devices for repair. The secure repair kiosk system includes a kiosk that receives items for repair. The kiosk includes multiple holding slots that each contains a transfer box used as a secure and traceable means for transferring devices to and from a remote repair site. A customer interacts with a user interface of the Kiosk to generate repair drop-off request and gain access to an empty transfer box. An empty particular transfer box is presented to a user during drop-off of the device that will typically accompany the device during transfer to the repair site, during repair of the device, during transfer back to the Kiosk, and delivery to the user. The customer interacts with the user interface of the Kiosk to generate repair pick-off request and gain access to a transfer box that contains that customers repaired device.

Abstract: A baseball training device for batting with a level swing called a Swing Plane. It relates to a product that is developed as a training device for a large number of swing repetitions in order to create muscle memory. The device is built with a frame having a spreader base, vertical telescoping members and a top structure for hanging flexible cords and a baseball.

Abstract: The evaluation method includes a first step, by using measurement means M1 which can measure force F acting between a swing subject and the sport hitting tool or a specific directional component F1 thereof, obtaining measured value Vf of the force F or the force F1 at time after the impact, and a second step of determining the hit feeling on the basis of the measured value Vf at least at the one time. Preferably, the force F or the force F1 is force Fs containing a component in a shear direction. Preferably, in the first step, the measured values Vf in a specific interval Z 12 from time T1 to T2 after the impact are obtained chronologically. Preferably, the evaluation is made based on a difference between a maximum value and a minimum value of the measured values Vf.

Abstract: A batting practice device for developing and enhancing a baseball player's batting skills. The device provides a computer program, control module, batting target with a display module and a target mounted display. The bat may have a weighted end or a weight within the body of the bat, which will develop batter's upper body strength.

Abstract: A swing training device and system that includes a sequence of LED lights that are used to simulate the movement of a pitched ball along a horizontal line and act as a cue for initiating a swing. The swing training device will help develop visual skills by using the eyes to track a light source along a path to the ball such that a bat or striking object hits the ball at the same time the moving light intersects or passes over the ball. The light carrying cable is of a durable design so that the user may practice with the game used bat.

Abstract: A baseball training device for batting with a level swing called a Swing Plane. It relates to a product that is developed as a training device for a large number of swing repetitions in order to create muscle memory. The device is built with a frame having a spreader base, vertical telescoping members and a top structure for hanging flexible cords and a baseball.

Abstract: One embodiment of a terminal device according to the present invention comprises a moving image acquiring means for acquiring the moving image of a measured subject on which a sensor is installed, a sensor data acquisition means for acquiring sensor data from the sensor about said measured subject and a display control means for overlaying and displaying said moving image and additional images that are generated from said sensor data. The embodiment provides a terminal device capable of effectively checking a player's motion.

Abstract: Systems and methods of motion tracking are disclosed that can be used in connection with sports motion. Such a method can include placing one or more inertial measurement units (IMUs) on at least one of a person or one or more pieces of equipment, recording motion data associated with the at least one of the person or the one or more pieces of equipment, and synchronizing the recorded motion data. The method can also include analyzing the synchronized motion data in connection with a motion standard, and generating feedback based at least in part on the analyzed motion data.

Abstract: Batting Sleeve Sensor is a device that slides over or couples to a bat in order to record the statistics of each hit made. The invention may allow a user to analyze his or her hitting and make adjustments faster. The device takes only a few seconds to slip over (or otherwise couple to) an existing bat before a user can swing away as per usual. The hits are recorded via sensing means and are displayable in real-time. Athletes who play in competitive sports may find use in the device to train themselves to hit reliably and accurately over extended periods.

Abstract: A bat swing training machine for improving a user's bat swing technique and developing muscular strength includes a frame carried by an adjustable post for height adjustment and two mounting brackets for installation in various locations. The machine also includes a torsion spring, a swing arm with swivel linkage and a bat handle. The machine provides torsional resistance with precise positional control throughout the swing motion and does so equally for right and left handed swings. Backswing is relatively un-resisted thereby allowing the athlete or trainee to stay in position and continuously repeat the swing motion.

Abstract: A training aid (10) provides real-time biometric feedback for swung or linearly accelerated implements where the feedback is provided above a user adjustable threshold. The training aid (10) includes a two-part housing (12) and mounting means for releasably mounting the housing to an implement. A battery (16) is located in the housing (12) with a buzzer (22) connected to the battery (16) through an electrical circuit. A force activated switch (14) in the electrical circuit is activated to energize the buzzer (22) to sound in response to displacement of the training aid. The force activated switch (14) has a force threshold at which the force activated switch (14) is activated to energize the buzzer (22) to sound. The force activated switch (14) is configured so that the force threshold is user adjustable.

Abstract: A modular bat selecting simulator system according to various embodiments can include a handle weighted modular baseball bat configured to receive interchangeable weights in a handle portion of the handle weighted modular baseball bat. At least one tracking system configured to track movement of the handle weighted modular baseball bat and movement of a user while swinging the baseball bat. A computer configured for receiving data from the tracking system to determine an optimum bat weight based upon swing dynamics monitored while the user swings the baseball bat and outputting the data to a display. The display displays a virtual background including a virtual image of the baseball bat and a pitched ball, virtual movement of the baseball bat and the user swinging to hit the virtual image of the pitched ball.

Abstract: A batting training device includes: a base having opposed front and rear portions and opposed left and right portions, each portion including at least one mounting point; a back pole extending upward from a mounting point in the back portion; a side pole extending upward from a mounting point in either the left or right side portions; and a tee extending upward from one a mounting point in the front portion.

Abstract: A baseball hitting aid is a device that includes a base plate and a rear pole that can be moved progressively forward to aid a batter in learning to shorten his swing and become a better hitter. The device can include a tee portion for practice or it can be used when the ball is pitched to the batter.

Abstract: A device, system, and method for training a user to hit a ball with a ball bat. The device and system including a main section having a light source for emitting a light energy, and an upper portion extending from the main section and configured to be received on at least a portion of a knob of the ball bat. The device may be received onto the knob, such that the light energy is generally emitted collinear with or parallel to a longitudinal axis of the ball bat. As such, a user can obtain an indication of the user's body and ball bat position. For instance, the user can hold the ball bat in a first position, projecting the light energy at a position behind the user. Further, the user can transition the ball bat to a second position, projecting of light energy in front of the user.

Abstract: A golf swing training apparatus and method of enhancing muscle tone and improving swing form includes a swing device that guides a user's swing along a predetermined path in a selected swing plane to improve form and enhance muscle memory for a preferred swing. A tensioning device enables the user to adjust the resistance to his or her swing, increasing resistance to strengthen muscles used while executing the preferred swing. The apparatus is adjustable for individuals of varying height, size, strength and ability.

Abstract: An inertia-based baseball bat swing indicator, whether built into a baseball bat or retrofitted onto an existing bat, which visually indicates by inertia-propelled beads in separate grooves along the apparatus whether the alignment and body mechanics of the batter are proper during the bat swing.

Abstract: An apparatus for training a batter the proper swing of a bat at a pitched ball. The apparatus has an elongate stem and an arm connected to the stem. The arm has a first, longer run connected to the stem and a second, shorter run interconnected to the first run, the first and second runs forming a swing window in at least one position for use.

Abstract: Disclosed is a new and improved baseball and softball bat swinging trainer, comprising a flexible or rigid pole that is anchored to a horizontal surface, and a plurality of colored target flaps extending therefrom. The target flaps are pivotably mounted to the pole and are independently movable between a first and second position. The device can be adjusted so that the flaps are positioned in the strike zone of the batter. The colored target flap rotates as it is struck, indicating that the target was properly hit. A player can be instructed to swing at a particular colored flap, which helps him or her to learn hand-eye coordination and proper bat control when swinging a baseball or softball bat.

Abstract: A sports swing trainer is provided and includes a continuous resilient cable which is attachable by means of spaced straps to a bat or other sports racquet with the straps respectively attached to a pair of pulleys by a rotatable attachment combination and with the opposite end of the resilient cable attachable to a post, fence and the like by means of a combination third pulley and strap arrangement. An athletic workout belt is also attachable to the third pulley by means of a second continuous resilient cable.

Abstract: Analysis of pitches to determine both their velocity and the location at which they arrive at the batter. The speed of the pitch is adjusted according to an adjustment value whose magnitude is a function of the location of the pitch relative to the batter. For example, high outside pitches would have a different adjustment value than low inside pitches. These adjustment values are calculated to take into account the fact that hitters must swing at different pitches at different times. That is, they must swing at some pitches earlier than others, depending on the location of the pitch. The adjusted speed, or “effective velocity,” of the pitch is thus a function of both the pitch's velocity and its location relative to the batter, making it a more useful metric than velocity or location alone.

Abstract: In response to detecting a user hitting a pitched ball, a batting simulator system is configured to provide data such as batting average, slugging percentage, and exit ball velocity and distance in real-time. Furthermore, the batting simulator system can both display a trajectory of the hit ball in a virtual stadium and provide the results of the ball hit (e.g., groundout, double, home run, etc.) in real-time. The batting simulator system can store and later output these results to the player to allow the player or a coach to identify hitting tendencies and optimize swing mechanics over the course of one hitting session or over an entire season.

Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling a baseball bat swing are disclosed. A system in accordance with a particular embodiment includes an upper arm portion, a lower arm portion pivotably connected to the upper arm portion, and at least one releaseable attachment device carried by the upper arm portion and positioned to releasably attach to the user's arm. The system can further include an adjustment element operatively coupled to the upper arm portion and the lower arm portion, with the adjustment being manipulatable to control an angle between the upper arm portion and the lower arm portion. The system can be employed to train the user to achieve a consistent baseball bat swing.

Abstract: A muscular energy state analysis system and method for a swing motion and a computer program product thereof are provided. The system includes: a swing implement, for a user to perform the swing motion, and including an acceleration sensor for sensing acceleration of the swing implement when the swing implement is swung, so as to generate a swing speed data; a plurality of signal detection modules, for detecting electromyographic (EMG) signals generated by a muscles of the user; a database, for storing a muscular energy sample value,; a muscular energy analysis module, for analyzing the EMG signals and the swing speed data so as to obtain a plurality of muscular performance values; and a comparison module, for comparing the swing speed data and the muscular performance values with the at least one muscular energy sample value in the database, so as to generate a comparison result data.

Abstract: An athletic training device and a method for using same are shown, the device including an elastic cord; a grip, having a proximal end and a distal end, and having an axial bore therethrough; a connection member, disposed within the axial bore of the grip, said connection member protruding from the axial bore at the distal end of the grip and being adapted to connect the distal end of the grip to an end of the elastic cord, wherein said connection member further comprises a padded wrist strap, protruding from the axial bore at the proximate end of the grip and wherein the elastic cord is connected at its first end to the connection member of the grip, and the elastic cord is connected at its second end to an anchor, and wherein the elastic cord provides a resistance to force applied by a user in an athletic training exercise.

Abstract: A baseball training system to teach proper swing technique comprising a first tee adapted to support a baseball and a second tee adapted to support a baseball, a tee support configured to hold the first tee and a second tee vertically and separated from each other by a horizontal distance, d, a rod, and a belt configured to be worn around a user's stomach and to hold the rod in an approximate horizontal position across the front of the user's stomach.

Abstract: An apparatus for training a batter the proper swing of a bat at a pitched ball. The apparatus has an elongate stem and an arm connected to the stem. The arm has a first, longer run connected to the stem and a second, shorter run interconnected to the first run, the first and second runs forming a swing window in at least one position for use.

Abstract: An inertia-based baseball bat swing indicator, whether built into a baseball bat or retrofitted onto an existing bat, which visually indicates by inertia-propelled beads in separate grooves along the apparatus whether the alignment and body mechanics of the batter are proper during the bat swing.

Abstract: Analysis of pitches to determine both their velocity and the location at which they arrive at the batter. The speed of the pitch is adjusted according to an adjustment value whose magnitude is a function of the location of the pitch relative to the batter. For example, high outside pitches would have a different adjustment value than low inside pitches. These adjustment values are calculated to take into account the fact that hitters must swing at different pitches at different times. That is, they must swing at some pitches earlier than others, depending on the location of the pitch. The adjusted speed, or “effective velocity,” of the pitch is thus a function of both the pitch's velocity and its location relative to the batter, making it a more useful metric than velocity or location alone.

Abstract: A swing training device comprises a swing guide, a mount adapted to position the swing guide at a height above the ground selected by a user and a swing implement comprising a handle portion for gripping by a user. The first channel has a rearward end cooperating with a rearward end of the second channel, the second channel positioned angularly with respect to the first channel. The first and second channels also have a lateral opening extending generally along their length. The swing implement includes a connector portion mounted to the swing implement generally adjacent to the handle portion and has a distal end thereon.

Abstract: A training baseball bat has an internal movable magnet that accelerates to the end of the bat when swung at a fast enough speed. As the magnet moves it passes through a coil that is connected to one or more LEDs so that the LEDs momentarily flash as the magnet moves through the coil. An axially positionable stationary magnet can be used to hold the movable magnet until sufficient centrifugal force is imparted by the swing to overcome the magnetic holding force.

Abstract: It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.27(b).

Abstract: A device to teach the proper mechanics of a baseball swing is described. The device consists of a platform that the batter stands on. Set in the platform is a wheel that the batter puts his back foot on. The wheel turns 90 degrees when the batter takes his stride showing the batter the proper way to turn his back foot so that his hips and torso rotate. The batters' front foot is guided by marks to indicate the starting and the ending position of his front foot during the swing. Attached to the platform is a guide that guides the swinging bat along the proper path to make optimal contact with the ball. The guide and platform are reversible for left hand batters, adjustable for batters of different heights and adjustable for high or low and inside or outside pitched balls.

Abstract: Methods and training devices for training a user to improve the swing speed of a piece of sporting equipment are disclosed. A training device is provided, which includes a tensionable member secured to a piece of sporting equipment or similar elongate member, and to a fixed object remote therefrom. A user holding the member can move a selected distance from the fixed object, thereby extending the tensionable member such that a tension is provided, then orient the sporting equipment or elongate member in a position that enables executing a swing in the direction of the tension. The user can then attempt to execute the swing, imparting a velocity to the piece of sporting equipment or other elongate member. Whether the velocity imparted by the user exceeds or fails to exceed that provided by the tension, immediate feedback can be obtained through the effect of the tensionable member on the swing.

Abstract: TBD. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.27(b).

Abstract: A baseball batting strength-training aid includes a vertically oriented resilient cylindrical body defining a central core. A mount is affixed to a rear of the resilient body for attaching the training aid to an external support. A sensor pod is received within the central core of the resilient body, which includes at least one sensor thereto for sensing the striking of a bat against the resilient cylindrical body.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for teaching a batter to swing a bat in a premeditated plane to and through an invisible target that simulates the point of contact where a round bat will meet and greet a round ball squarely. A batter's training tool that facilitates a batter to swing a bat with finesse, confidence, accuracy, speed and strength. Through repeated practice, the batter becomes physically and psychologically habituated to maintain the correct swing form for improved contact.

Abstract: A device to teach the proper mechanics of a baseball swing is described. The device consists of a platform that the batter stands on. Set in the platform is a wheel that the batter puts his back foot on. The wheel turns 90 degrees when the batter takes his stride showing the batter the proper way to turn his back foot so that his hips and torso rotate. The batters' front foot is guided by marks to indicate the starting and the ending position of his front foot during the swing. Attached to the platform is a guide that guides the swinging bat along the proper path to make optimal contact with the ball. The guide and platform are reversible for left hand batters, adjustable for batters of different heights and adjustable for high or low and inside or outside pitched balls.

Abstract: In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a batting training device which includes a base plate, an adjustable ball and spring unit having one end secured to the base plate and having another end with a ball secured thereto, an adjustable height guard support unit having one end secured to the base plate, a stride guard laterally movable with respect to an upper portion of the adjustable height guard support unit, and a pivotal and rotational swing path guard unit movably with respect to the upper portion of the adjustable height guard support unit.

Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling a baseball bat swing are disclosed. A system in accordance with a particular embodiment includes an upper arm portion, a lower arm portion pivotably connected to the upper arm portion, and at least one releaseable attachment device carried by the upper arm portion and positioned to releasably attach to the user's arm. The system can further include an adjustment element operatively coupled to the upper arm portion and the lower arm portion, with the adjustment being manipulatable to control an angle between the upper arm portion and the lower arm portion. The system can be employed to train the user to achieve a consistent baseball bat swing.

Abstract: A system and a method is provided for improving a baseball player's batting swing. Preferably, the system can be utilized to teach a player to swing with power and with a slight upstroke to increase the chances of getting a powerful line drive hit. The system includes a post upwardly extending from a support base. Preferably, the post is adjustable to increase or decreased in height to match the size of the player utilizing the system. A channel is attached at upper portion of the post and includes a means for providing resistance, such as bristles, that protrude generally upwardly from the channel base. A second similar channel with a resistance means is mounted above and facing the first channel such that there is a gap between the two resistance means.

Abstract: A method of training in swinging and hitting a baseball or softball in which a mechanical training aid is provided and attached to a batter's trailing back forearm and trailing back calf with a stretchable band attached between the back forearm and back calf. The band is stretched as a batter swings with proper extension and rotation of his body. The stretched band may further cause a visual, audible, or tactilely perceived indicator to the batter or observer that a batter has properly extended during a swing.

Abstract: A training system is disclosed which indicates to a baseball/softball hitter that he/she does not have the proper bat lag and will indicate to the hitter that the bat was properly extended after hitting the ball. The system may also be used for the training of golfers or other sports enthusiasts.