Billiards Shot Training Device and Method

Abstract

The shot training device is used as a training aid for learning to play pocket billiards. The device aids the student in learning the three major components of a shot for pocket billiards: pocketing the object ball, cue ball direction, and cue ball speed control. The device includes an object ball circle for placement of an object ball. The device also includes an imaginary cue ball circle for aiming the cue ball. The device further includes cut angle lines and cue ball path lines for determining a cut angle to the object ball and plotting a path of the cue ball after impact with the object ball. A kit and a method of training a user to play billiards are also disclosed.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention pertains to the field of billiards. More particularly, the invention pertains to training devices and methods for improving billiards play.

2. Description of Related Art

Playing pool well requires sound knowledge combined with solid execution. Knowledge is the understanding of the interactions between the cue ball and the balls being pocketed, as well as the interactions between the balls and the table. Execution is effectively applying one's knowledge using solid fundamentals to arrive at the desired result.

To become an accomplished billiards player, one must not only be able to pocket a target ball but also to be able to set up the subsequent shot by placement of the cue ball after the current shot to an advantageous position. Therefore, a total shot in pool has three parts: making the ball, plotting the position route, and speed control. Making the ball includes aiming the cue ball on the correct line to pocket the object ball. Plotting the position route includes planning the path the cue ball travels after contacting the object ball. Speed control includes hitting the cue ball with the correct force such that it comes to rest at a specific spot along the position route. Cue ball direction and speed control are collectively referred to as “position play”. Playing position means to maneuver the cue ball to a place on the pool table that is favorable to making the next shot.

Devices for training a billiards player on aiming a cue shot are known in the art. Devices currently on the market include the Billiards Aim Trainer by Billiards Training Company, the Porper Ghost Ball Aimer, the EZ Shot Ghost Ball, the Ghostball Aim Trainer by Elephant Balls, the Elephant EZ Shot Cue Ball by Elephant Balls, the Jim Rempe Training Pool Ball by Aramith, the Aiming By The Numbers Method, the Elephant Practice Pool Ball Kit by Elephant Balls, and the AcCueShot Aim Trainer by Sterling Gaming. All of the above-mentioned training devices address the aiming aspect of a billiards shot but do not help the user to learn cue ball speed and cue ball direction after collision with a target ball.

Current devices and method provide a variety of ways to learn aiming. A laser device has been used for aiming. Cardboard and plastic “ghost ball” aiming devices have been used. Also, markings on a target ball have been used to aid in aiming. Most devices currently on the market can not be left in place during the shot. Having to remove the device before the actual execution of the shot severely hampers the student's learning development, because the shot is harder to execute with the device removed, and there is no point of reference to determine why the shot was missed. For example, the student sets up the device, tries to memorize the angle to the target ball, removes the device, and performs the shot. Also, repetition is extremely valuable in learning how to play billiards, and moving the device before actually performing the shot does not allow the student to reproduce the exact same shot.

Many inexperienced players learn by trial and error or by trying to apply instructions from a book or video. Some books discuss cue ball direction and speed control (see for example, The Science of Pocket Billiards by Jack Koehler), but the present inventor is not aware of any hands-on device that brings all three components, aim, direction, and speed control, together in one device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The shot training device is used as a training aid for learning to play pocket billiards. The device aids the student in learning the three major components of a shot for pocket billiards: pocketing the object ball, cue ball direction, and cue ball speed control. The device includes an object ball circle for placement of an object ball. The device also includes an imaginary cue ball circle for aiming the cue ball. The device further includes cut angle lines and cue ball path lines for determining a cut angle to the object ball and plotting a path of the cue ball after impact with the object ball. A kit and a method of training a user to play billiards are also disclosed.

In a first embodiment of the present invention, the alignment device includes a top layer, a bottom layer, and a middle layer. The top layer is transparent to light and has a top surface texture mimicking the playing surface of a billiards table such that the alignment device does not alter a billiards shot occurring on the alignment device. The bottom layer has a smooth bottom surface with a reusable adhesive on the bottom surface. A plurality of artwork is printed on at least one surface of at least one layer of the alignment device. The artwork includes an object ball circle, an imaginary cue ball circle tangent to the object ball circle, a target line, a plurality of cut angle lines, and a plurality of cue ball path lines. The target line extends from the object ball circle and is collinear with a line from the center of the object ball circle to the center of the imaginary cue ball circle. The cut angle lines extend toward the center of the imaginary cue ball circle on the side opposite the object ball circle with each cut angle line denoting a cut angle of a cue ball with respect to an object ball. The cue ball path lines extend toward the center of the imaginary cue ball circle on the side of the object ball circle and correspond to the cut angle lines.

In a second embodiment of the present invention, the kit includes at least one alignment device, at least one landing pad disk, at least one ball marker disk, and a user's manual. The alignment device includes an object ball circle for placement of an object ball and an imaginary cue ball circle tangent to the object ball circle. The alignment device also includes a target line extending from the object ball circle and collinear with a line from the center of the object ball circle to the center of the imaginary cue ball circle. The alignment device further includes a plurality of cut angle lines extending toward the center of the imaginary cue ball circle on the side opposite the object ball circle with each cut angle line denoting a cut angle of a cue ball with respect to an object ball. The alignment device also includes a plurality of cue ball path lines extending toward the center of the imaginary cue ball circle on the side of the object ball circle and corresponding to the cut angle lines.

In a third embodiment of the present invention, the method includes placing an alignment device on a surface of a billiards table such that a target line of the alignment device points toward a pocket of the billiards table and placing an object ball in an object ball hole on the alignment device. The method also includes placing a cue ball on a cue ball spot on the billiards table behind a 90-degree reference line on the alignment device and determining a cut angle of the cue ball to the object ball using a plurality of cut angle lines on the alignment device. The method further includes determining a post-impact cue ball path of the cue ball using a plurality of cue ball path lines on the alignment device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows an alignment device in an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows artwork and text for an alignment device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 shows a set-up billiards shot using an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 shows the shot of FIG. 3 with perfect aim of the cue ball to the imaginary cue ball circle.

FIG. 5 shows a completed shot of the set-up of FIG. 3 and execution of FIG. 4 at a medium speed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A shot training device of the present invention teaches a student or user aiming, cue ball control, and speed control in a billiards shot. A shot training device of the present invention is preferably left on the table throughout the execution of the shot. This provides a solid visual aid, a reference for correcting missed shots, and an opportunity to repeat the exact same shot conditions.

The student completes the steps to playing a total pocket billiard shot when using the present invention. The student makes the object ball into the desired pocket using the “imaginary cue ball” aiming method. The student also learns to predict the cue ball direction after contact with the object ball by using the cut angle and cue ball path lines drawn on the alignment device. Finally, the student learns proper speed control by using landing zone pads.

An alignment device of the present invention is preferably an 11.5-inch circle with a top surface of a textured vinyl material and a bottom surface of a smooth material, preferably vinyl, coated at least around the edges with a reusable adhesive. The reusable adhesive is preferably a pressure-sensitive removable adhesive such as those available from 3M (St. Paul, Minn.). Preferably, a sheet of paper with artwork on the top surface is sealed between the top and bottom layers, although the artwork may be placed on any surface of the alignment device visible from the top of the alignment device within the spirit of the present invention. The artwork shows where to place the alignment device on the table, where to place the object ball (the ball to be pocketed), exactly where to shoot the cue ball to make the object ball go into the desired pocket, and where the cue ball will go after contact with the object ball. All artwork is underneath the vinyl material so it will not wear out. The texture of the vinyl material used to make the alignment device closely mimics the friction of normal pool table cloth so that the actions of the object ball and cue ball closely match the actions of the balls during normal play.

The alignment device preferably has a tacky strip of non-permanent adhesive on the back that extends completely around the outside edge so that the alignment device does not move during use. The adhesive may be any non-permanent adhesive within the spirit of the present invention. In one embodiment, the adhesive covers the entire back of the alignment device. In another embodiment, the adhesive covers only an annulus around the outer part of the back of the alignment device. It is crucial that the alignment device be stable when the balls collide, or a missed shot may result, which can confuse and frustrate the student. The alignment device is reusable, but lint and chalk dust from the table may stick to the tacky strip after repeated use. The tackiness is rejuvenated by a light wiping with a damp cloth or sponge. The vinyl material used to make the alignment device is thin enough that there is no deflection of the cue ball when rolled over the edge of the alignment device. The alignment device preferably has a maximum thickness less than 1/16 of an inch. The alignment device more preferably has a maximum thickness less than 1/32 of an inch. Therefore, the alignment device itself does not contribute error to the shot making process as would be the case with other devices that are too thick or do not have adhesive or other means to keep them stable.

The alignment device is preferably designed such that it does not alter a shot taking place, in part, on the alignment device in any way. In other words, the shot using the alignment device would have produced substantially the identical result if performed in the identical way on the billiards table without the alignment device. The device thickness, the adhesiveness of the bottom surface, and the material and texture of the top surface all contribute to the alignment device mimicking the surface of the billiards table which it is covering. The alignment device ideally interacts with the cue ball and the object ball substantially in the identical way that the playing surface of the table does.

FIG. 1 shows an alignment device 10 in an embodiment of the present invention. The alignment device preferably employs the “imaginary cue ball” aiming method, or “ghost ball” aiming method, to aid in learning to pocket the object ball. The alignment device is placed on the pool table with the target line 12 pointing to the desired pocket. There are two circles 14, 16 of the same diameter as a billiard ball (2.25 inches) and tangent to each other on the alignment device. The object ball circle (solid outline) 14 is for placement of the object ball. The object ball circle 14 also has a small hole 18, preferably ¼″ in diameter, in the center that is preferably a through-hole through the alignment device, so that the object ball is always placed in the correct spot. The imaginary cue ball circle (dashed outline) 16 denotes the imaginary cue ball position at the instant of impact with the object ball. Pointing the target line 12 toward a desired pocket, placing an object ball on the object ball circle 14, and shooting the cue ball so that it exactly occupies the imaginary cue ball circle 16 results in pocketing the object ball into the desired pocket. Repetitive practice teaches the student to see the correct aim line for all shots.

There are preferably two sets of lines drawn on the alignment device. The cut angle lines 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34 show the angle at which the real cue ball approaches the object ball (cut angle), and the cue ball path lines 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54 show the cue ball path after contact with the object ball for a given cut angle at a “medium” speed. A medium speed is herein defined as an initial cue ball speed to send a cue ball unimpeded by other balls about one and a half times the length of a standard billiards table. In another embodiment, the cue ball path lines are located for a cue ball at low speed. In yet another embodiment, the cue ball path lines are located for a cue ball at high speed. The purpose of these lines is to train the student to see the exact cue ball direction after contact with the object ball so as to play position for the next shot. Each cut angle line preferably has a corresponding cue ball path line. In FIG. 1, a 60-degree left cut angle line 20, a 30-degree left cut angle line 22, a 20-degree left cut angle line 24, a 10-degree left cut angle line 26, a 10-degree right cut angle line 28, a 20-degree right cut angle line 30, a 30-degree right cut angle line 32, and a 60-degree right cut angle line 34 are shown. The corresponding cue ball path line 40 for a 60-degree left cut angle, cue ball path line 42 for a 30-degree left cut angle, cue ball path line 44 for a 20-degree left cut angle, cue ball path line 46 for a 10-degree left cut angle, cue ball path line 48 for a 10-degree right cut angle, cue ball path line 50 for a 20-degree right cut angle, cue ball path line 52 for a 30-degree right cut angle, and cue ball path line 54 for a 60-degree right cut angle are also shown. A 90-degree reference angle line 60 is also shown.

The cut angle lines and corresponding cue ball path lines are preferably color-coded for instant and easy identification from any angle or distance on the pool table. In a preferred embodiment, the lines 20, 34, 40, 54 for a 60-degree cut are a first color, preferably blue, the lines 22, 32, 42, 52 for a 30-degree cut are a second color, preferably red, the lines 24, 30, 44, and 50 for a 20-degree cut are a third color, preferably purple, and the lines 26, 28, 46, and 48 for a 10-degree cut are a fourth color, preferably green. Since cut angle lines in the lower left quadrant 62 correspond to cue ball path lines in the upper right quadrant 62, the lower left quadrant 62 and upper right quadrant 64 of the alignment device preferably have a different shading or color than the lower right quadrant 66 and upper left quadrant 68.

Although the cut angle lines and cue ball path lines are shown with directional arrowheads, lines without arrowheads may be used within the spirit of the present invention. Also, other, or alternative, cut angles may be displayed on the alignment device within the spirit of the present invention. For example, cut angle lines and cue ball path lines for 5-degree and 15-degree cut angles may be included.

The alignment device 10 is shown mounted with its adhesive back on a piece of 12″×12″ release liner 72 which is a preferred state for storage of the alignment device 10 when not in use. The release liner 72 is preferably a release paper coated with a material to which the adhesive does not stick, preferably a silicone or wax-based product. The textured top surface 74 of the alignment device 10 preferably has a diameter of 11.5 inches. The paper layer 76 with the artwork preferably has a diameter of 10 inches. Although the top surface 74 and paper layer 76 are preferably circular, as shown in FIG. 1, alternate shapes such as ovals, ellipses, other curved shapes, rectangles, or other polygons may be used within the spirit of the present invention.

Although the artwork on the alignment device 10 of FIG. 1 is described above as being printed on a paper layer sandwiched between two plastic layers, the artwork may be printed on any paper-thin substrate within the spirit of the present invention. Although the artwork is preferably all printed on the same surface of the alignment device, different elements of the artwork may be printed on more than one surface and more than one layer of the alignment device within the spirit of the present invention. The artwork may be printed on any layer of the alignment device as long as the artwork is visible to the user when the alignment device is placed on a billiards table for use. The artwork may be printed on a top surface of the substrate or as a reversible print from the back side of the substrate so that the printing does not wear off. The artwork may be printed using any printing materials including, but not limited to, solvent inks by any method including, but not limited to, silk screening, printing press, copy machine, die sublimation, laser printing, or ink jet printing.

FIG. 2 shows a preferred layout 78 of artwork and text for an alignment device of the present invention. The individual cut angle lines cue ball path lines are labeled with their respective cut angles in degrees. The quadrants are labeled appropriately as “left cut angles”, “right cut angles”, “cue ball path for left cut angles”, and “cue ball path for right cut angles”. The 90-degree reference line is also labeled.

The present invention provides a hands-on training device to teach the user to aim correctly, to see the cue ball path, and to feel the correct cue ball speed. To maximize the effectiveness of the alignment device, it is recommended that the three parts of the total shot be done in sequence. The student preferably starts with aim, then cue ball path, and finally speed control. The student preferably does each section until a consistent result is achieved (at least 70% of the time), then move on to the next section.

A kit of the present invention preferably includes an alignment device, at least one landing pad disk for position training, at least one ball marker disk to set up repeat shots, and a user's manual. The ball marker disks may be blank having no printed material. In one embodiment of the present invention, the ball marker disks are sold or given away as promotional items with information printed on the ball markers. The information printed on the ball markers may include, but is not limited to, a web site address, a company or other entity logo, a company or other entity name, a product name or logo, a photographic image, an event logo such as for a billiards tournament event, or any other advertising information. The ball marker disks may be used to promote the entity making the ball marker disks or another product of the entity making the ball marker disks. The ball marker disks may also be distributed or sold, either separately or with a kit of the present invention, with information relating to a second entity different from the first entity making the ball marker disks, where the second entity compensates the first entity, for example on the basis of the number of ball marker disks sold or distributed.

A kit of the present invention preferably includes two circular pads called landing pad disks or landing zone pads. In a preferred embodiment, the kit includes a 10-inch landing pad disk for position training, a 5-inch landing pad disk for advanced position training, and six ball marker disks. The pads are preferably made of very thin paper. The paper is preferably coated on one side with a silicone or wax-based product to keep it from sliding on the billiards table. The object of the landing zone pads is to teach the student proper cue ball speed control by making the cue ball come to rest on a landing zone pad after pocketing an object ball. The 10-inch landing zone pad is for use by beginners, and the user may move to the smaller 5-inch pad as their skills improve.

Small circles (each preferably having a 1.25-inch diameter) are also preferably provided in a kit of the present invention. These circles, called ball markers or ball marker disks, are used for setting up a shot to be repeated over and over again. It is important for the student to reinforce their learning by going back and forth between using the alignment device to perfect a basic skill and using the ball markers in freelance practice sessions to apply the skill to a variety of shots without the visual aid of the alignment device. The ball markers are preferably made of the same textured vinyl material as the alignment device with a tacky, temporary adhesive on the back so that they do not move during use. The tacky, temporary adhesive is preferably a pressure-sensitive removable adhesive. This assures that the exact same shot may be repeated. The ball markers each have a small hole in the center, preferably 3/16″ in diameter, to assure the exact placement of the object ball and cue ball. The vinyl material is thin enough to not interfere with accuracy. The ball markers are reusable and the tackiness can be rejuvenated with a light wiping with a damp cloth.

FIG. 3 through FIG. 5 show the set-up, execution, and result of a perfect billiards shot using devices of the present invention. The alignment device 10 is placed on the playing surface 80 of the billiards table 82 with the adhesive back in contact with the playing surface and the target line pointing toward a targeted pocket 84. The target ball 86 is placed in the small hole of the object ball circle of the alignment device. The cue ball 88 is placed either directly on the playing surface 80 or on a ball marker disk 90 (see FIG. 4 and FIG. 5) behind the 90-degree reference line of the alignment device 10. In FIG. 3 through FIG. 5, the cue ball 88 is located at a 20-degree left cut angle with respect to the target ball 86, as determined by use of the alignment device 10. The 10-inch landing pad disk 92 or the 5-inch landing pad disk 94 may be used as targets for the cue ball 88 by plotting a path for the cue ball using the cue ball path line on the alignment device for a 20-degree left cut angle.

If the student strikes the cue ball perfectly, the cue ball 88 follows the path 96, rolls across the 20-degree left cut angle line of the alignment device and perfectly occupies the imaginary cue ball circle at the instant of contact with the target ball 86, as shown in FIG. 4. The target ball then rolls along the path 98 across the playing surface and into the targeted pocket 84. Meanwhile, the cue ball rolls across the cue ball path line for a 20-degree left cut angle, across the playing surface along the path 100, bounces off the top rail 102 of the billiards table, and rolls along the path 104 before coming to rest at the center of the landing pad disk 92, 94. The alignment device 10 and the ball marker disk 92 maintain the initial positions for the target ball and the cue ball for the student to re-try the shot.

The alignment device is constructed with a special top facing to simulate the texture of the pool table cloth so as to mimic as closely as possible the action of the balls in normal play. The alignment device and the ball marker disks have a tacky back, which keeps them from slipping or creeping when in use. The device and disks are designed to be reused over and over again. The device and disks are preferably stored on a paper backing, which easily peels off the device and disks for use of the device and disks. The device and disks adhere to the table by lightly pressing them onto the table.

Making the Ball

Making the ball is preferably done by performing the following steps in sequence. First, place the alignment device on the table with the heavy black arrow pointed to the pocket, and place the object ball on the hole in the center of the solid circle. Next, place the cue ball on the table, preferably approximately 18 inches from the alignment device. Align the center of the cue ball with one of the cut angles lines or aim lines. Start with a smaller angle such as 10 degrees. A cue stick can be held over the line to help with the alignment. This is done by placing the tip of the cue stick on the center of the imaginary cue ball circle, moving the butt end until it is in line over the cut angle, and placing the cue ball under the stick. Then, shoot the center of the real cue ball to the center of the imaginary cue ball circle (dotted line) using a medium speed stroke and cuing. The cue ball makes contact with the object ball and drives it into the pocket. Finally, repeat from various cut angles. Use both left and right cut angles, which may require moving the alignment device to the other side of the table. Once the user is making the object ball consistently, the user is ready for the next step, plotting the position route.

The center of the cue ball only contacts the object ball on straight-in shots, where the cut angle is zero degrees. The larger the cut angle, the smaller the portion of the cue ball that makes contact with the object ball. A 10-degree cut angle results in about ⅞ of the cue ball making contact with the object ball. A cut angle of about 30 degrees results in about half of the cue ball making contact with the object ball.

If the object ball does not go into the pocket, one of the following is likely the cause. First, the cue ball was not shot to the center of the imaginary cue ball circle. It was shot to one side or the other of center. Second, english (sidespin) was applied to the cue ball. The cue ball must be struck squarely. Striking the cue ball to the right of vertical center imparts right english on the cue ball, which in turn will cause the object ball to be “thrown” to the left off its normal path. Imparting left english on the cue ball throws the object ball to the right. Third, the alignment device was not aligned correctly to the pocket. The target line arrow must be pointing to the pocket opening in such a way as to allow the object ball to pass into the pocket without contacting the rail points, where the rail ends and the rubber is cut at an angle into the pocket, which creates a sharp point.

Plotting the Position Route

Cue ball path angles, also called cue ball deflection angles, are dependent on the speed with which the cue ball is struck and the cuing position. The cue ball path angles used for the cue ball path lines on the alignment devices of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are based on a medium speed stroke with no side spin applied to the cue ball. Alternate alignment devices or alternate lines may be provided with cue ball path lines for low speed or high speed strokes within the spirit of the present invention.

When the student sets up a shot with the alignment device, the cue ball path line that matches the cut angle line for the shot indicates the direction the cue ball will go after striking the target ball. The lines are preferably color-coded such that the cut angle lines are different colors and each cut angle line is the same color as its corresponding cue ball path line. The cue ball path lines are on the opposite side from where the user places the cue ball. For example, if the cue ball is placed for a 20-degree left cut angle, where the object ball will move to the player's left, then the corresponding cue ball path line is the one coming off of the right side of the alignment device. A piece of chalk placed on the rail at the point where the cue ball should contact the cushion after contacting the object ball (called “first cushion” contact) is preferably used to determine whether the cue ball has followed the desired path. The user can use a cue stick to help find the contact. If the cue ball does not follow the intended path, one of the following is likely the cause. First, the cue ball was not shot to the center of the imaginary cue ball circle. The object ball may have been pocketed to one side of the pocket or the other, causing the cue ball to take a slightly different path. Second, the cue ball was struck harder or softer than a medium speed range. A softer stroke most likely will not have much effect on shots at short distance (less than half a table length), but shooting harder causes the cue ball to take a wider path.

Once the student consistently contacts the first cushion with the cue ball at the intended point, the 10-inch landing pad disk may be placed on the table along the cue ball path between the first cushion and where the user think the second cushion would be contacted if the cue ball traveled that far. The cue ball should contact the first cushion at the intended spot and continue on to roll over the 10-inch landing pad disk. Once the cue ball is consistently rolling over the 10-inch landing pad disk, the student may repeat the shots using the 5-inch circle. The student then preferably repeats this process for various cut angles, including both left and right cut angles. Once the cue ball is consistently following the intended path and rolling over the 5-inch landing pad disk, the user is ready for the next step, speed control.

Speed Control

After learning the first two steps, the student is ready to learn speed control. The student repeats the procedures for plotting the position route, but now the goal is to have the cue ball come to a stop in the landing pad disk, rather than rolling over it. At first, the student should place the circle about half a table away from the first cushion. The student should first use the 10-inch landing pad disk and move to the 5-inch disk with improving skills. In order to simulate a range of shots to be made during an actual billiards game, the student preferably repeats practicing speed control from various cut angles and distances to the landing pad disk, including both left and right cut angles. English can also be used to alter the cue ball path to create multiple routes for playing position to a wide variety of landing zones from the same shot. Outside english (opposite of direction of cut angle) widens the angle, while inside english shortens the angle. The user must be careful with english, however, so that it does not cause the user to miss the shot. Once the cue ball is consistently coming to rest on the 5-inch landing pad disk, the user has mastered the total shot.

Practice Routines

Ball markers (1.25-inch disks) are preferably included in a kit of the present invention to make the shots repeatable so that they can be practiced over and over. One marker may be used for the cue ball and one for the object ball, when practicing without the alignment device.

The student may go back and forth between the alignment device and a ball marker for the target ball to reinforce their learning.

Hit the Zone Game

In one embodiment of the present invention, a student may practice or multiple students may compete against each other in a game referred to herein as the Hit the Zone game. The objective of this game is to shoot an object ball into a called pocket and have the cue ball roll over, or land on, a landing zone pad. A beginner uses a 10-inch landing zone pad, while a more advanced player uses the 5-inch landing zone pad.

Any number of players may play. The game preferably proceeds in the following manner. Players take turns setting up a shot using two ball markers, one for the object ball and one for the cue ball. Alternatively, the alignment device may be used for the object ball. The player who sets up the shot also places a landing zone pad anywhere they like on the table. Each player takes a turn to try to pocket the object ball in the correct pocket and cause the cue ball to roll over, or stop on, the landing zone pad. The player who sets up the shot shoots first. The order of shooting for the other players may be determined by the players by coin toss or other method agreed upon by the players.

Players agree upon a winning score prior to starting the game. The following scoring system is preferably used for the Hit the Zone game. One point is scored for pocketing the object ball in the called pocket and causing the cue ball to roll over the landing zone pad. It is possible for the edge of the cue ball to be over the pad without the base of the cue ball touching the pad, but the cue ball must actually touch the pad to earn the point. Three points are scored for pocketing the object ball in the called pocket and causing the cue ball to stop with the base of the cue ball on the landing zone pad. No points are scored if the object ball is not pocketed in the called pocket, regardless of whether or not the cue ball rolled over or stopped on the landing zone pad. One point is deducted for a scratch.

Play is finished when a player achieves the number of points agreed upon by all players before the start of the game.

Steps to Consistency in Billiards

In a method of the present invention, the student preferably performs the following steps for every billiards shot. First, survey the table for problems including, but not limited to, balls tied up, balls on the rail, and balls that only go into one pocket. Next, plan the shot including shot selection, cue ball path, cuing (follow, draw, etc.), cue ball speed, and exact cue ball landing spot. Then, line up the shot and land, but if it does not feel right, get up and repeat lining up the shot and landing. Next, aim and warm up the stroke, taking as many strokes necessary to feel that the cue ball is going to stay on the aim line and make accurate contact with the object ball. Then, stop and focus on the object ball and see/feel the path of both the object ball to the pocket, the cue ball path after contact with the object ball, and the speed required to get the cue ball to the final landing spot.

Take a nice even, slow backswing keeping the cue stick on the correct line, and make a very slight, almost imperceptible, pause at the end of the backswing before starting the forward motion. Then, execute the forward stroke, accelerating through the cue ball. Next, stay down and see the contact with the object ball, then get up. Finally, quickly analyze what happened during the shot. Did I stay on the aim line accurately? If I missed, why did I miss? How is the table playing (fast, slow, etc.)? Are the balls skidding a lot (probably a dirty table)? How am I feeling (relaxed, nervous, tight, etc.)?

The top surface of the alignment device and the ball marker disks are preferably vinyl. The landing pad disks are preferably very thin, coated paper. Alternative materials may be used with the present invention, but they may have limitations. Billiards balls may deflect (jump or move sideways) on thicker material or slide (instead of a true roll) on smoother material. Any device that does not use a tacky backing or some other stabilizing method introduces error into the shooting process.

It is not absolutely necessary to make the parts out of a specific substance, but degradation in function and accuracy may result if unsuitable materials are used. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, any material that mimics the texture of the pool table cloth and results in normal ball interactions, any material that does not move during the execution of a shot, and any material that does not interfere with the direction or roll of the cue ball or object ball (i.e. too thick, too slippery, or wrong texture).

Adhesion Testing of Alignment Device

An early version of an alignment device of the present invention was changed to correct curling and lack of adhesion. This version had textured vinyl glued over artwork that was printed on paper. A ¾-inch strip of vinyl protruded past the paper. A temporary adhesive was applied on the textured vinyl only. The alignment device would only stick to the pool table cloth a few times before it lost its ability to adhere adequately due to lint and chalk dust accumulating on the ¾-inch tacky strip. Cleaning the tacky strip was not possible. The lint and chalk dust could not be cleaned off the textured vinyl, most likely due to the texture. Also, the paper with the artwork was exposed on the underside of the alignment device. The paper absorbed water which caused the alignment device to curl and buckle, making it impossible for the cue ball and object ball to roll accurately across the surface.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a layer of thin, smooth vinyl is adhered to the underside of the alignment device. The smooth vinyl completely covers the underside of the alignment device and totally encapsulates the paper with the artwork on it. A temporary adhesive is applied to the entire smooth vinyl underside of the alignment device instead of just a ¾-inch strip. The same textured vinyl as used in the previous version of the alignment device is used for the upper surface. The textured vinyl has no adhesive on it and does not have to be cleaned. The smooth vinyl on the underside has excellent adhesion and can be cleaned and reused many, many times.

The following tests were done to determine the effectiveness of applying the adhesive to the smooth vinyl as opposed to the textured vinyl, the adhesiveness of the alignment device after cleaning, and the number of times the alignment device can be cleaned and reused before losing adequate adhesion.

A new alignment device with a pressure-sensitive removable adhesive was applied and removed 50 times to a pool table which had been used for several hours and was not cleaned prior to the test. Each time the alignment device was applied to a different place on the pool table so as to not skew the results by applying to the same spot, which would become clean after repeated removals. Some lint and chalk dust was picked up each time, but the alignment device retained very good adhesive properties. The alignment device was cleaned with a sponge dampened with warm water. Approximately 75% of the lint and chalk dust was removed. The alignment device was allowed to air dry for 5 minutes. Application and removal 100 times followed by cleaning and drying was repeated six times with the same alignment device for a total of 650 applications and removals.

The alignment device and ball markers were found to have excellent adhesion during use, are cleanable, and can be reused many times. An alignment device was applied and removed 650 times. It was cleaned with a damp sponge between tests (6 cleanings in all). The alignment device still had adequate adhesion and could continue to be used.

In another test, an alignment device and ball markers were applied to a pool table and left in place for 12 hours. After the 12 hours, the alignment device and ball markers were removed with absolutely no interaction with the Simonis 860 cloth installed on the table.

The improved manufacturing process and materials used to make the alignment device and ball markers produces the desired results which yield a high quality product. The adhesion is excellent, the materials are durable and reusable and there is no interaction of the adhesive with the pool table cloth. The alignment device and ball markers can be cleaned and there is no curling or buckling after cleaning, insuring that accuracy is maintained during actual use.

Accordingly, it is to be understood that the embodiments of the invention herein described are merely illustrative of the application of the principles of the invention. Reference herein to details of the illustrated embodiments is not intended to limit the scope of the claims, which themselves recite those features regarded as essential to the invention.

Claims

1. A method of training a user to play billiards comprising the steps of:

a) placing an alignment device on a surface of a billiards table such that a target line of the alignment device points toward a pocket of the billiards table;

b) placing an object ball in an object ball hole on the alignment device;

c) placing a cue ball on a cue ball spot on the billiards table behind a 90-degree reference line on the alignment device;

d) determining a cut angle of the cue ball to the object ball using a plurality of cut angle lines on the alignment device; and

e) determining a post-impact cue ball path of the cue ball using a plurality of cue ball path lines on the alignment device.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising marking the cue ball spot with a ball marker disk.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising marking a finishing spot for the cue ball to come to a stop along the post-impact cue ball path with a landing pad disk.

4. A billiards shot training kit comprising:

a) at least one alignment device comprising: an object ball circle for placement of an object ball; an imaginary cue ball circle tangent to the object ball circle; a target line extending from the object ball circle and collinear with a line from the center of the object ball circle to the center of the imaginary cue ball circle; a plurality of cut angle lines extending toward the center of the imaginary cue ball circle on the side opposite the object ball circle, each cut angle line denoting a cut angle of a cue ball with respect to an object ball; and a plurality of cue ball path lines extending toward the center of the imaginary cue ball circle on the side of the object ball circle and corresponding to the cut angle lines;

b) at least one landing pad disk;

c) at least one ball marker disk; and

d) a user's manual.

5. The kit of claim 4, wherein the at least one landing pad disk comprises a beginner's landing pad disk having a diameter of 10 inches and an expert's landing pad disk having a diameter of 5 inches.

6. The kit of claim 4, wherein the at least one ball marker disk comprises six ball marker disks, each ball marker disk having a diameter of 1.25 inches.

7. The kit of claim 6, each ball marker disk having a center hole having a diameter of 3/16 inch for placement of a billiards ball.

8. The kit of claim 4, the cut angle lines comprising a 10-degree cut angle line, a 20-degree cut angle line, a 30-degree cut angle line, and a 60-degree cut angle line.

9. The kit of claim 4, wherein each cut angle line is color-coded to its corresponding cue ball path line.

10. The kit of claim 4, wherein the alignment device has a through-hole in the center of object ball circle for placement of the object ball.

11. The kit of claim 4, wherein the alignment device has a thickness less than 1/32 of an inch.

12. The kit of claim 4, wherein a top surface of the alignment device has a texture mimicking a playing surface of a billiards table such that the alignment device does not alter a billiards shot occurring on the alignment device.

13. The kit of claim 12, wherein the top surface of the alignment device comprises a textured vinyl material.

14. The kit of claim 4, wherein a bottom surface of the alignment device comprises a smooth vinyl material coated with a reusable adhesive.

15. An alignment device comprising:

a) a top layer transparent to light and having a top surface texture mimicking a playing surface of a billiards table such that the alignment device does not alter a billiards shot occurring on the alignment device;

b) a bottom layer having a smooth bottom surface and a reusable adhesive on the bottom surface; and

c) a plurality of artwork printed on at least one surface of at least one layer of the alignment device, the artwork comprising: an object ball circle for placement of an object ball; an imaginary cue ball circle tangent to the object ball circle; a target line extending from the object ball circle and collinear with a line from the center of the object ball circle to the center of the imaginary cue ball circle; a plurality of cut angle lines extending toward the center of the imaginary cue ball circle on the side opposite the object ball circle, each cut angle line denoting a cut angle of a cue ball with respect to an object ball; and a plurality of cue ball path lines extending toward the center of the imaginary cue ball circle on the side of the object ball circle and corresponding to the cut angle lines.

16. The alignment device of claim 15, wherein the artwork is printed on a middle layer sealed between the top layer and the bottom layer.

17. The alignment device of claim 15, wherein the middle layer is paper.

18. The alignment device of claim 15, wherein each cut angle line is color-coded to its corresponding cue ball path line.

19. The alignment device of claim 15, wherein the alignment device has a through-hole in the center of object ball circle for placement of the object ball.

20. The alignment device of claim 15, wherein the alignment device has a thickness less than 1/32 of an inch.