SPARRING DUMMY

Abstract

A movable joint for use in a sparring apparatus. The joint includes a first member and a second member. The first member has at least one ball bearing protruding therefrom. The second member has first and second indentations to releasably receive a portion of the at least one ball bearing therein. The at least one ball bearing is received by the first indentation when the joint is manipulated into a first position and the at least one ball bearing is received by the second indentation when the joint is manipulated into a second position.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/806,992, filed Jul. 11, 2006, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to sparring/training dummies used in the practice of martial arts, boxing, self-defense, and/or police related training exercises and more particularly, to such sparring dummies with realistic joints and limbs.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many known sparring dummies and tools have been disclosed that allow a user to practice various forms of martial arts, self-defense, etc. Typically, many of these dummies are vague human forms filled with “stuffing” to absorb a blow by a user initiating contact with such a dummy. Other sparring tools include floor or ceiling mounted punching bags. Some known sparring dummies include limbs, or limb-like components, but often these limbs are molded into a set position. A few known dummies do allow a user to move the limbs, but only allow the user to manipulate the limbs into a few predetermined positions. Additionally, these dummies have a very limited range of motion that is not characteristic of a typically human being. It has also been found that once the limbs have been manipulated into a particular position, the limbs often fall out of position despite any contact from the user. Therefore, users training with known sparring dummies cannot manipulate a sparring dummy into realistic fighting positions, and cannot engage in realistic training.

Thus it can be seen that needs exist for improvements to sparring dummies that allow a user to position the joints and limbs of a sparring dummy into numerous positions as desired by a user. Additionally, it can be seen that needs exist for sparring dummies that can be contorted into various lifelike positions to enable a user to engage in realistic training with a dummy.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one example aspect, the invention relates to a movable joint for use in a sparring apparatus. The joint includes a first member and a second member. The first member has at least one ball bearing protruding therefrom. The second member has first and second indentations to releasably receive a portion of the at least one ball bearing therein. The at least one ball bearing is received by the first indentation when the joint is manipulated into a first position and the at least one ball bearing is received by the second indentation when the joint is manipulated into a second position. The joint of the present invention is advantageous over known joints, because the joint includes a ball bearing for locking the joint into a particular position. In this manner, a user can manipulate the joint into a desired position for training purposes, and the joint will maintain this position until the user moves the joint into another position. Because the joint can be manipulated and secured into numerous positions, the sparring dummy can take on realistic and lifelike forms.

In another example aspect, the invention relates to a sparring apparatus. The sparring apparatus includes a body having at least one movable limb and an internal skeleton. The internal skeleton is housed within the body and further includes at least one movable joint. The joint is capable of being manipulated by a user from a first position into a second position. Optionally, the body can be formed from a clear elastomer, such the internal skeleton is visible through the body. Also, optionally, the body can mimic a full human body or form. The sparring apparatus can also include a stand for holding the body in a substantially upright position.

In still another aspect, the invention relates to a joint for use with a sparring dummy. The joint includes a female member having a slot defined therein and a male member having a flange extending therefrom. The slot of the female member rotatably receives the flange of the male member. The joint also includes a locking mechanism for securing the joint in one of a plurality of positions.

These and other aspects, features and advantages of the invention will be understood with reference to the drawing figures and detailed description herein, and will be realized by means of the various elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following brief description of the drawings and detailed description of the invention are exemplary and explanatory of preferred embodiments of the invention, and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view of a sparring dummy according to an example embodiment of the present invention, showing the internal skeleton.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the sparring dummy according to another example embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an exploded front view of an example joint for use in the sparring dummy according to FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is an exploded side view of the joint depicted in FIG. 3, shown without the ball bearing, spring, set pin, or fastening screw for clarity.

FIG. 5 is an exploded front view of another example joint for use in the sparring dummy according to FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 is a partially exploded side view of the joint depicted in FIG. 5.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of the invention taken in connection with the accompanying drawing figures, which form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parameters described and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed invention. Also, as used in the specification including the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural, and reference to a particular numerical value includes at least that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” or “approximately” one particular value and/or to “about” or “approximately” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.

With reference now to the drawing figures, FIGS. 1-2 show sparring dummies 10 and 10′ according to example embodiments of the present invention. The sparring dummy 10 is intended for use in, but not limited to, the practice of martial arts, boxing, self-defense, and/or police related training exercises. The sparring dummy 10 can be produced in varying sizes, from childlike to full-sized adult, as desired by a user. Additionally, the dummy 10 can be formed to model a specific person. In example embodiments, as best seen in FIG. 2, the dummy 10′ is covered in a tear resistant, flexible, soft, and non-oily covering 12, such as various types of elastomers or polymers, and modeled into a human form to create a body. In preferred embodiments, the covering is clear, so that a user can see the internal skeleton of the dummy 10′. Alternatively, the covering is colored or tinted to give the dummy a realistic appearance.

Generally, the dummy 10 includes an internal skeleton 14 and a mounting stand 16. Preferably, the internal skeleton is visible to the user through the body covering 12. Preferably, the covering 12 is composed of a clear elastomer, or other polymer, and may appear to be, or mimic, a human body and/or internal skeletal structure. In example embodiments, the internal skeleton 14 comprises a skull 20, a neck 22, a two-part shoulder 24, 26, an upper arm 28, a lower arm 30, a wrist 32, a hand 34, a three-part upper spine 36, 38, 40, a lower spine 42, a hip 44, a two-part upper leg 46, 48, a lower leg 50, and a foot 52, as seen in FIG. 1. In commercial embodiments, the dummy 10 preferably includes a pair of shoulders, arms, wrists, hands, hips, legs, and feet. However, in alternate embodiments, numerous other configurations can be utilized as desired. For example, the sparring dummy 10 can include more or less of the components listed above such that the dummy 10 only includes the bust, or legs. Still alternatively, the individual body parts, such as the shoulder, leg, and spine, can comprise fewer or more parts coupled together as appropriate for the desired use.

The mounting stand 16 generally holds the sparring dummy 10 in an upright position. Alternatively, the dummy 10 can be supported in various sloped/angled positions, sitting, upside down, etc. In example embodiments, the stand 16 includes a base 60, a spring/damper 62, a mounting pole 64, and a holding arm 66 as seen in FIG. 2. The holding arm 66 includes a saddle 68 for receiving the sparring dummy 10 therein and is rotatably coupled to a mounting bracket 69, such that the holding arm 66 can be rotated as desired. The bracket 69 is releasably coupled to the mounting pole 64 so that the user can move the bracket vertically along the mounting pole to a height desired by the user. In commercial embodiments, a locking pin 67 is used to secure the mounting bracket 69 to the mounting pole 64 at the desired height. In alternate embodiments, other fastening devices can be used interchangeably, including bolts, clips and/or hooks. Alternatively, the mounting bracket can be rigidly fixed in place. A spring/damper 62 preferably connects the mounting pole 64 to the base 60. In this manner, the mounting pole 64 (along with the sparring dummy 10) can temporarily move in relation to the base, such that training blows by the user are partially absorbed by the spring 62.

The internal skeleton 14 comprises a plurality of joints 70, as shown in FIGS. 3-6, that allow a user to fix a body part of the dummy 10 in substantially any position desired by the user. In example embodiments, each joint 70 generally includes a first female member 71, a second male member 72, at least one ball bearing 73, at least one spring 74, at least one set screw 75, and at least one fastener or sex screw 76. Alternatively, other fasteners can be used in place of the sex screw 76, such as bolts, locking sleeves, or set pins. The first and second members 71,72 of the joint 70 may be formed from a variety of materials including polymers and/or rubber; however, preferably the joint body is formed from ultra high molecular weight polyethylene. It has been found that the joint members 71,72 are easily held together with friction when they are formed from ultra high molecular weight polyethylene, or other similar polymers, such as polyethylene and/or high molecular weight polyethylene. Additionally, at least part of the joint 70 can be lined with a thin layer of polyurethane and/or other polymers to enhance the frictional qualities of the joint.

With particular reference now to FIGS. 3-4, an example back joint 70 is depicted. The joint 70 can also be used with various other body parts of the sparring dummy 10, including a wrist, arm, or leg joint. As seen in the drawing figures, the first member 71 of the joint 70 comprises a slot 80 for receiving a corresponding flange 82 of the second member 72 therein. The first and second members 71, 72 are aligned by receiving the at least one sex screw 76 therethrough, such that the second member 72 is rotatably secured to the first member 71. The first member 71 receives the sex screw 76 through alignment hole 84, and the second member 72 receives the sex screw through alignment hole 86. In preferred embodiments, the screw 76 is substantially tightened, such that the first and second members are frictionally held together. Alternatively, a thin layer of polyurethane or other polymer can be included between the mating ends of the members 71,72 to enhance the frictional coupling between the same. In example embodiments, the non-mating ends of the members 71,72 can comprise additional slots, such as slot 88 depicted in the second member, to receive additional joints 70 and/or body components therein. For example, two or more joints 70 can be connected in series to form the back of the sparring dummy 10. Alternatively, one or more of the members 71,72 can further comprise a connecting rod 90 for securing the joint 70 to other example joint embodiments, such as the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 5-6 (i.e. connects to reference no. 108).

Although example joints 70 are preliminarily held in place with friction, in operation the ball bearing 73 further locks the joint into a particular position, once set by the user. In example embodiments, the ball bearing 73 locks the joint 70 in place by protruding from an access hole 92 in the first member 71 of the joint 70 and engaging a corresponding indentation 77 in the second member 72. Alternatively, the second member 72 can include the ball bearing 73 and the first member 71 can include one or more indentations 77. In other embodiments, two or more ball bearings 73 can be utilized. The ball bearing 73 is biased against the spring 74 and set screw 75, such that the bearing is propelled into an indentation 77 when an indentation and the bearing are aligned. Preferably, the second member 72 includes a plurality of indentations 77, to accommodate a very wide range of motion by the joint, as seen in FIG. 4. In this manner, there are numerous positions that the joint 70 can be “locked” into, and the joint can be frictionally held in a particular position even if there is not a corresponding indentation 77. To disengage the ball bearing 73 and an indentation 77, a user can rotate the ball bearing out of alignment with the indentation. The user can continue to rotate the joint 70 until the ball bearing 73 is aligned with another indentation 77, to fix the joint in another position. Additionally, the joint 70 depicted in FIGS. 3-4 can be rotated more than 180 degrees.

Referring now to another example embodiment according to the present invention, FIGS. 5-6 depict an example leg joint 70′, although the joint can be used for various other body components, including a shoulder or neck joint. In this embodiment, the first member 71′ of the joint 70′ includes a substantially cylindrical bore 100 for receiving a corresponding protrusion 102 of the second member 72′. To secure the members 71′,72′ together, a set pin 104 can be inserted into a bore 106, to prevent the second member from sliding out of engagement with the first member. In this embodiment, the first member 71′ has a plurality of indentations 77′ concentrically arranged around the cylindrical bore 100, such that the ball bearing 73 can engage an indentation in multiple locations. The members 71′,72′ of the joint 70′ can be rotated by a user a full 360 degrees in relation to each other. As previously mentioned, this joint 70′ can be connected to other similar joints, such as the joint 70 depicted in FIGS. 3-4, wherein a sleeve 108 can releasably receive a connecting rod 90 therein.

A user can manipulate one or more joints 70 within the sparring dummy 10, such that the limbs of the dummy can be configured into realistic positions. The joints 70 can be locked into place utilizing friction between the members 71,72 of the joint, and through the use of the ball bearing 73 and indentations 77. In this manner, a user desiring to practice a particular combat maneuver can arrange the limbs of the dummy 10 into a particular configuration as desired.

While the invention has been described with reference to preferred and example embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that a variety of modifications, additions and deletions are within the scope of the invention, as defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A movable joint for use in a sparring apparatus, the joint comprising:

a female member having a slot housing at least one ball bearing protruding therefrom;

a male member coupled to the female member, the male member having a flange with a plurality of indentations to releasably receive a portion of the at least one ball bearing therein;

wherein the at least one ball bearing is received by a first indentation when the joint is secured in a first position and the at least one ball bearing is received by a second indentation when the joint is secured in a second position.

2. The movable joint of claim 1, wherein the first member is frictionally coupled to the second member.

3. The movable joint of claim 1, wherein the first member and second member are formed from a polymer.

4. The movable joint of claim 3, wherein the first member and second member are formed from ultra high molecular weight polyethylene.

5. The movable joint of claim 1, wherein the ball bearing is mechanically biased.

6. The movable joint of claim 5, wherein the first member further comprises a spring for biasing the ball bearing.

7. The movable joint of claim 6, wherein the spring is secured within the first member by a setscrew.

8. The movable joint of claim 1, wherein the joint is coated with a flexible polymer or elastomer.

9. A sparring apparatus comprising:

a body having at least one movable limb; and

an internal skeleton housed within the body, the internal skeleton comprising at least one movable joint that corresponds to the at least one movable limb;

wherein the joint is operable to be secured in a plurality of positions.

10. The sparring apparatus of claim 9, wherein the body comprises a size and shape that mimics a human body.

11. The sparring apparatus of claim 10, wherein the body comprises a flexible polymer.

12. The sparring apparatus of claim 10, wherein the body comprises an elastomer.

13. The sparring apparatus of claim 12, wherein the elastomer is substantially transparent, such that the internal skeleton is visible through the body.

14. The sparring apparatus of claim 9, wherein the at least one joint comprises:

a first member having at least one biased ball bearing protruding therefrom;

a second member coupled to the first member, the second member having first and second indentations to releasably receive a portion of the at least one ball bearing therein;

wherein the at least one ball bearing is received by the first indentation when the joint is manipulated into the first position and the at least one ball bearing is received by the second indentation when the joint is manipulated into the second position.

15. The sparring apparatus of claim 14, wherein the body comprises a plurality of movable limbs and movable joints.

16. The sparring apparatus of claim 14, wherein the first member comprises a spring for biasing the ball bearing.

17. The sparring apparatus of claim 9, wherein the apparatus further comprises

a stand for holding the body in a substantially upright position.

18. The sparring apparatus of claim 17, wherein the stand comprises a damper for absorbing energy transferred between a user and the body.

19. A joint for use with a sparring dummy, comprising:

a female member having a slot defined therein;

a male member having a flange extending therefrom, wherein the slot of the female member rotatably receives the flange of the male member; and

a locking mechanism for securing the joint in one of a plurality of positions.