Abstract: Innovative apparatuses and methods for a novel training device is provided that includes a base, a frame, a material attached to the frame, wherein the material comprises a non-solid material; and an image affixed to a first side of the non-solid material, wherein the image is viewable on the first side of the non-solid material and viewable on a second side of the non-solid material.

Abstract: An apparatus for teaching baseball pitching includes a substantially flat panel having a substantially rectangular shape with adjustable height and width dimensions. The apparatus further includes at least two support members for supporting the flat panel in an upright position. The length of the support members can be adjusted to obtain a desired distance between a bottom edge of the flat panel and the ground.

Abstract: A pitching target assembly for training baseball or softball pitchers. A target defines a plurality of zones, each being backed by a pocket or pouch for catching the baseball or softball. The height of the target can be adjusted to match that of a batter. The zones of the target may be adjusted as well, to tailor the targeting within the zone for specific purposes. The target may also be configured at an acute angle relative to a base plane of the pitching target assembly for practicing drop pitches.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to the field of material for physical education, gymnastics, swimming, climbing or fencing, ball games, training material and specifically to training apparatus or apparatus intended for particular sports, consisting of a basketball trainer device composed of a body in the form of a silhouette with a cavity for traversing a ball within a frame and training aim or with said cavity covered with a lining to train reception by the bounce of the ball on the lining; a conical base filled with a weight ballast to keep basketball trainer device upright; removable swivel wheels for movement; riatas of connection with the player, connection with several players or connection with another device and the player simultaneously; where the basketball trainer device has the ability to remain static or moving, rotate 360° and flex up to between zero degrees and fifty degrees measured from the vertical axis.

Abstract: Systems and methods for improving an individual's response are disclosed. A system for improving an individual's response comprises an item of headwear having a microphone; a speaker; a recording device secured to a front of the item of headwear; an electroencephalogram cap for measuring and recording electrical activity in the individual's brain; and a computing device. The computing device includes machine readable media; an input device; an output device; a communication device for communicating over a network; a processor in data communication with the machine readable media, the input device, and the output device; and electronic instructions that, when executed by the processor, perform steps for causing the speakers to project noise to the individual and actuating the recording device to record the individual's field of view. The microphone allows the individual to communicate, over the network, with a third party.

Abstract: A pitching target assembly for training baseball or softball pitchers. A target defines a plurality of zones, each being backed by a pocket or pouch for catching the baseball or softball. The height of the target can be adjusted to match that of a batter. The zones of the target may be adjusted as well, to tailor the targeting within the zone for specific purposes. The target may also be configured at an acute angle relative to a base plane of the pitching target assembly for practicing drop pitches.

Abstract: A sports training apparatus including a flexible bistable spring band, wherein the flexible bistable spring band may have two stable mechanical states. The sports training apparatus may further include an elastic band including a first end and a second end, wherein a first end of the elastic band may be configured to be removeably attached to the flexible bistable spring band. The flexible bistable spring band may transition from a first stable mechanical state to a second stable mechanical state by wrapping around a cylindrical object.

Abstract: A programmable electronic sports target system. The system includes one or more target devices mounted to a goal with a net. Each of the one or more target devices has a programmable module disposed therein for controlling and operating the one or more target devices. A remote control system containing a computer and a database is connected to each programmable module to receive target sensor data from the programmable module of each of the one or more target devices for analyzing the data and for transmitting operational control data to the programmable module for operational control of the target devices having the programmable module disposed therein. Target application software within mobile communications devices receives target sensor data from the remote control device and to transmit operational control data to the remote control device.

Abstract: A basketball shooting apparatus having adjustable rim members varying the opening through the basketball rim. The basketball shooting apparatus may include one or more portions of a rim portion and/or one or more portions of a floor portion of the apparatus for developing a basketball shooter's form. The rim portion may include the adjustable rim members attached to the basketball rim. The rim members of the rim portion may be combined with one or more other portions of the rim portion to connect to the basketball rim such as at least one of one or more portions of funnel, a lower ring, or a body. The rim portion may also have attachments for a basketball return chute to the floor portion. The floor portion may include a pair of uprights. The floor portion may include one or more alignment guide panels, an abutment member, ball ramp, and/or ball rack.

Abstract: A system for training a pitcher to throw a softball or hardball. The system includes providing a plate the shape and size of a regulation home plate, the plate having a horizontal tubular rail member located along the front edge thereof. A plurality of elongated ball position indicator members are provided, each of the indicator members having an enlarged outer portion. Support means are provided that communicate with the rail member for supporting each of the ball position indicator members at its inner end. Each of the ball position indicator members are provided with a spring member located adjacent the support means and adapted to allow the ball position indicator member to be pushed inwardly by a pitched ball and return to its original configuration. The enlarged outer portions of the indicator members are vertically or horizontally arranged into a strike zone selected by the pitcher to be targeted during training.

Abstract: The present invention provides for the first time a barrier support structure comprising at least one removable closed-loop resilient coilable frame having a perimeter. The removable closed-loop coilable frame comprises at least one connection member. A support base comprises at least one attachment member. The attachment member removably attaches to the connection member of the removable coilable frame. The attachment member maintains a predetermined angle between the removable coilable frame and the support base.

Abstract: BASEBALL'S 3-IN-1 ZONE TRAINER is a device for training and conditioning three player positions in order to master the art and science of the pitching, hind-catching and hitting of a baseball; all of which are dependent upon the strike zone. This training device is comprised of four primary connecting sections for ease of assembling and disassembling: Section 1—the horizontal Base Plate, color-coded red, provides for the connecting of Section 2—the vertical Telescopic Height Base and Adjustable Posts designed for a true individualized strike zone, color-coded red and provides two locations for the connecting of Section 3—the Upper and Lower Strike Zone Arms comprised of a combination of flexible materials for defining the horizontal and vertical yellow and green color-coded strike zone; and finally, Section 4—the Rubber-molded Coverings that are pre-assembled to Sections 2 and 3.

Abstract: Systems and methods for training and improving overhand throwing. A first embodiment of a system includes at least one upper arm that extends from a central body. A pathway marked by indicia extends down the upper arm curving to indicate the correct motion for a desired overhand throw. A flexible slap card may be located along the pathway for use in a first training exercise. The body may include a hole for positioned and sized for use as a target for a second training exercise. Support structures for maintaining the system in a desired position may be included. Methods for training with overhand throwing exercises using the systems are also included.

Abstract: A sports training target is provided. In exemplary embodiments, a sports training target may comprise a return net for substantially covering an opening defined by a frame, the return net adapted to withstand the impact of a sports projectile propelled from an originating location and allow the sports projectile to pass downward along the return net, exit a bottom portion of the return net, and return in the direction of the originating location; a target for substantially covering the return net, the target having an opening formed therein, the opening adapted to allow the sports projectile to pass behind the target to the return net, the target adapted to withstand the impact of a sports projectile; and an attachment means adapted to attach the sports training target to the frame.

Abstract: A device for Baseball pitcher training, employing a heavy, rigid, frame, heavy anterior target or impact drape, and heavy posterior target or impact drape.

Abstract: A batting tee system includes a batting tee assembly that may be used with conventional balls or with the ball described as an embodiment of the present invention. Optionally, the batting tee assembly may be used with a netting system that provides feedback to a batter based on a trajectory of the ball after it has been struck by a bat and leaves the batting tee assembly. In one embodiment, the batting tee assembly includes a support base coupled to a swing arm, which in turn is coupled to an adjustable-height batting tee. The batting tee system may be configured for both left and right handed batters and also placed in a portable or storable configuration.

Abstract: A portable baseball practice device for training hitting and pitching which comprises a pair of opposing upright posts that support a centrally located strike zone that is formed by interconnecting horizontal and vertical cords. The cords create a strike zone for the pitcher to target to and the hitter to practice hitting.

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: Systems and methods for training and improving overhand throwing. A first embodiment of a system includes at least one upper arm that extends from a central body. A pathway marked by indicia extends down the upper arm curving to indicate the correct motion for a desired overhand throw. A flexible slap card may be located along the pathway for use in a first training exercise. The body may include a hole for positioned and sized for use as a target for a second training exercise. Support structures for maintaining the system in a desired position may be included. Methods for training with overhand throwing exercises using the systems are also included.

Abstract: A baseball pitching training apparatus is for practicing accuracy and consistency in throwing a baseball or softball. The apparatus has a durable target with a plurality of target zone openings and a plurality of mesh pockets, with one pocket attached to a rear side of the target behind a target zone opening. In use, the user aims a baseball at a selected target zone in order to train pitching situation accuracy and consistency. The target also includes a plurality of apertures along top and bottom edges to facilitate suspension from a structure. The bottom edge of the target can alternately have a sleeve for supporting a weighted insert to maintain the position and shape of the target in a substantially vertical plane when suspended from support structure.

Abstract: A fabric tunnel for baseball pitching practice with a simple “auto-catcher” is made of netting in one embodiment. At the target end a flap with indicia of accuracy of aim also constitutes a flap that provides an audible feedback when hit and also allows the thrown balls to be captured. Straps are used to hold the tunnel in position by attachment to poles supported by guy wires or the straps could be attached to fixed objects such as a chain-link fence.

Abstract: A sports training device includes a base and at least one net frame assembly. The net frame assembly includes a frame mounted detachably to the base, and a net attached to and surrounded by the frame. The net includes a non-elastic mesh area, and an elastic mesh area connecting the non-elastic mesh area to the frame.

Abstract: A pitching screen which provides a support structure having an arcuate support element which defines the boundary of the pitching screen and about which a ball can be pitched toward a pitching target.

Abstract: A training device for ball sports includes a frame member which supports both an elastic surface for rebounding a ball, along with an inelastic surface which absorbs the kinetic energy of the ball and allows it to drop to the ground, which is designed as a combination apparatus that includes both a ball rebounding surface and a ball stopping surface, in order to provide a variety of training activities and which may be transported easily by a coach or an individual using it for practice.

Abstract: A training cage for throwing practice, comprises a frame having a height, width and depth. The training cage also comprises a strike zone indicator that defines the boundaries of a strike zone and a pitch locator. The pitch locator is configured such that when the pitch locator is in cooperation with the strike zone indicator, the strike zone is defined by at least one strike area pass through that defines an area that allows a ball thrown within the strike zone to pass through the strike zone indicator and at least one strike area barricade that defines an area that obstructs the ball thrown within the strike zone from passing through the strike zone indicator. Moreover, the pitching cage comprises a target having a target surface that is suspended in a second designated position located behind the strike zone indicator.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for facilitating baseball strike zone detection. In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, a method includes transmitting radar pulses by a phased-array of transmitting antennas in a radar beam pattern, detecting reflected radar pulses of the transmitted radar pulses at multiple receiving antennas, calculating multiple positions of a projectile based on detecting the reflected radar pulses, determining whether an incursion through a three-dimensional strike zone characterized by batter-specific settings has occurred based on the multiple positions, and providing an indication of the incursion determination for presentation to a user.

Abstract: A batting tee system includes a batting tee assembly that may be used with conventional balls or with the ball described as an embodiment of the present invention. Optionally, the batting tee assembly may be used with a netting system that provides feedback to a batter based on a trajectory of the ball after it has been struck by a bat and leaves the batting tee assembly. In one embodiment, the batting tee assembly includes a support base coupled to a swing arm, which in turn is coupled to an adjustable-height batting tee. The batting tee system may be configured for both left and right handed batters and also placed in a portable or storable configuration.

Abstract: A ball target assembly includes a support that includes a front wall having a front side, a back side and a perimeter edge extending between the front and back sides. The front wall has an opening therein extending into the front side and outwardly of the back side. A rear wall is hingedly coupled to the front wall along an upper edge of the front wall and an upper edge of the rear wall. A ball catch is mounted to the back side and covers the opening. The ball catch is formed of a loose material configured to catch and retain a ball thrown through the opening.

Abstract: The baseball training device provides a framed net for capturing thrown balls, especially baseballs. The frame is sturdily supported by stanchions that include upwardly extended sections for additional support. The fasteners are fastened to the frame sides. The device includes a substantially centrally disposed target box. The target box is supported by spaced apart uprights. The uprights feature orifices and the target box, ears, whereby keepers may be passed from the ears into a given set of upright orifices to thereby adjust the vertical positioning of the target box. The device provides padded horizontal members that are fitted as desired, one atop another, in order to effectively shorten the box height and thereby establish a smaller target for a thrower.

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 baseball pitching simulator includes first and second vertical support members. A first adjustment assembly includes a first carriage coupled to a first vertical support member and is movable by a pulley system and first motor. A second adjustment assembly is coupled to the first carriage and movable vertically when the first carriage is moved along the vertical support member. The second adjustment assembly includes pulleys extending laterally between the vertical support members and is coupled to a pitching target. The first and second adjustment assemblies regulate vertical and horizontal positions thereof, respectively. First and second motors actuate movement of the adjustment assemblies. The pitching target includes a pressure sensor to detect impact. The simulator includes a backstop having a vibration sensor to determine when the backstop is impacted. A processor and programming cause the adjustment assemblies to move the pitching target.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a softball/baseball pitcher's pitching practice device, and to a method for using the device. It is a simple and inexpensive pitching practice device useful for indicating the boundaries of a typical strike zone to softball and baseball pitchers. More particularly, this invention relates to a pitching practice device having a strike zone indicator that can be conveniently adjusted to simulate the strike zones of batters of various heights.

Abstract: A baseball pitching simulator includes first and second vertical support members. A first adjustment assembly includes a first carriage coupled to a first vertical support member and is movable by a pulley system and first motor. A second adjustment assembly is coupled to the first carriage and movable vertically when the first carriage is moved along the vertical support member. The second adjustment assembly includes pulleys extending laterally between the vertical support members and is coupled to a pitching target. The first and second adjustment assemblies regulate vertical and horizontal positions thereof, respectively. First and second motors actuate movement of the adjustment assemblies. The pitching target includes a pressure sensor to detect impact. The simulator includes a backstop having a vibration sensor to determine when the backstop is impacted. A processor and programming cause the adjustment assemblies to move the pitching target.

Abstract: A pitching screen which provides a first pitching lane and a second pitching lane in a single pitching screen configuration to allow both left-handed pitchers and right-handed pitchers to pitch without repositioning the pitching screen.

Abstract: The present invention is a system for pitching of baseball or softball to enjoy virtual game, the system includes a pitching room having a mound from which a player will throw a ball and a home plate by which the thrown ball will be determined depending upon its trajectory; a video camera for photographing the pitching room along the longitudinal direction thereof from the back of the mound by using a two-dimensional image sensor included therein; a stripe pattern arranged at a predetermined area including the home plate on the floor, wherein the stripe pattern indicates different positions in the longitudinal direction of the area; a mirror obliquely mounted on the ceiling right above the home plate for reflecting the optical image of the home plate and stripe pattern toward the video camera; and a computer for detecting three-dimensional position of the thrown ball based on the image signal output from the video camera photographing both of the thrown ball and the optical image of the stripe pattern above w

Abstract: Described herein is a combination pitching aid and batting tee apparatus. The apparatus includes a base having a front and a rear, a stand extending upwardly from the base, a support rod extending upwardly from the stand, and an arm extending outwardly from the support rod. The arm includes a target associated therewith that can be adjusted vertically and horizontally. The apparatus includes a screen having a top end and a bottom end and a support assembly having a top end and a bottom end that extends upwardly from the base. The bottom end of the screen is attached near the front of the base and the top end of the screen is attached to the support assembly. The support rod can be replaced with a batting tee.

Abstract: Disclosed is a half moon type net for catching balls or flexibly stopping the flight of balls, comprising a half-moon-shaped or arch-shaped loop and a fabric retainer to better support the net structure, maintain a bigger net in shape, and reduce the chance of missing balls. More specifically, the net comprises: a main member forming a substantially half-moon-shaped closed loop; a base member forming a closed loop, wherein the straight front section of the base member is connected to the straight bottom section of the main member; a fabric retainer comprising two bottom sections formed adjacent to each of the two corners of the main member and an arch section along the top section of the main member so as to maintain the main member in shape; a fabric member covering the loop of the main member to flexibly stop the flight of projectiles; and a supporting member to sustain the main member against the base member while maintaining a substantial angle between the main and base members.

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

Abstract: A single loop net includes a loop member, triangular holders, side straight edge portions, two propping poles, two holding straps, a first opening, a catching net, net deploying straps, and a second opening. The triangular holders are for holding two neighboring straight portions. The side straight edge portions are fixed to one of the side straight portions. Each of the propping poles extends from two side straight portions of the loop member. Each of the holding straps extends from a lower portion of the loop member. The first opening is enclosed and defined by the triangular holders and the side straight edge portions. The catching net covers the first opening and configured to catch balls flying into the first opening from a frontal direction. The second opening is disposed in a bottom one of the side straight edge portions. The second opening is disposed so as to return balls.

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

Abstract: The present invention relates to a softball/baseball pitcher's pitching practice device, and to a method for using the device. It is a simple and inexpensive pitching practice device useful for indicating the boundaries of a typical strike zone to softball and baseball pitchers. More particularly, this invention relates to a pitching practice device having a strike zone indicator that can be conveniently adjusted to simulate the strike zones of batters of various heights.

Abstract: An aspect of the present invention provides a ball net with a basket. The ball net comprises a target opening portion, a decelerating catcher, and a collecting pocket. The target opening portion is configured for hulling a ball therein. The decelerating catcher is provided inside the target opening for reducing speed of, stopping, and dropping the ball. The collecting pocket is disposed below the decelerating catcher for receiving the ball dropped from the decelerating catcher and keeping inside. The target opening portion comprises a coilable loop and an edge portion extending from the coilable loop and defining a flying-in opening.

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

Abstract: A weighted ball rebounder and method for increasing power on an athletic performance provide a trampoline member including a resilient sheet affixed to a peripheral frame pivotally coupled to a base and disposed on a substantially horizontal surface. Stabilizing members prevent the rebounder from moving along the surface when a weighted ball such as a 2–20 pound medicine ball, is rebounded therefrom. The trampoline member is angularly adjustable up to 180° in fixed positions. The method provides a user drawing a weighted ball in a direction away from the rebounder, then abruptly swinging the weighted ball toward the rebounder and releasing. The rebounder returns the weighted ball in flight, to the user.

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: The present embodiments provide a system for improving ability level in an activity. The system comprises a first target comprising a first dimension and a first color, and a second target comprising a second dimension and a second color. The second dimension is greater than the first dimension, and the second color is different than the first color. In one embodiment, the first target is a first home plate, and the second target is a second home plate. The first home plate may comprise a first width and the second home plate may comprise a second width, wherein the second width is greater than the first width. Additionally, user instructions are provided that specify a sequence of distances for positions of the first and second targets over activity intervals. The user instructions may be selected based on various user characteristics.

Abstract: A training cage for throwing practice, comprises a frame having a height, width and depth. The training cage also comprises a strike zone indicator that defines the boundaries of a strike zone and a pitch locator. The pitch locator is configured such that when the pitch locator is in cooperation with the strike zone indicator, the strike zone is defined by at least one strike area pass through that defines an area that allows a ball thrown within the strike zone to pass through the strike zone indicator and at least one strike area barricade that defines an area that obstructs the ball thrown within the strike zone from passing through the strike zone indicator. Moreover, the pitching cage comprises a target having a target surface that is suspended in a second designated position located behind the strike zone indicator.

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

Abstract: A fabric tunnel for baseball pitching practice with a simple “auto-catcher” is made of netting in one embodiment. At the target end a flap with indicia of accuracy of aim also constitutes a flap that provides an audible feedback when hit and also allows the thrown balls to be captured. Straps are used to hold the tunnel in position by attachment to poles supported by guy wires or the straps could be attached to fixed objects such as a chain-link fence.

Abstract: Described herein is a combination pitching aid and batting tee apparatus. The apparatus includes a base having a front and a rear, a stand extending upwardly from the base, a support rod extending upwardly from the stand, and an arm extending outwardly from the support rod. The arm includes a target associated therewith that can be adjusted vertically and horizontally. The apparatus includes a screen having a top end and a bottom end and a support assembly having a top end and a bottom end that extends upwardly from the base. The bottom end of the screen is attached near the front of the base and the top end of the screen is attached to the support assembly. The support rod can be replaced with a batting tee.