SPORT TRAINING DEVICE

A sports ball for stroke training is provided which comprises one or more designated energy-absorbing zones and one or more energy-responsive zones adjacent the one or more designated energy-absorbing zones wherein the one or more energy-responsive zones are positioned at one or more sweet spots of the sports ball, such that a stroke that strikes an energy-responsive zone results in the sports ball travelling further than the sports ball will travel from a similar stroke that strikes an energy-absorbing zone.

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Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION

THIS invention relates to sports training devices for sports that utilise a ball. In particular, the invention relates to a sports ball for stroke training which includes an optimal point of impact for a chosen stroke technique.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Repetitive drills are a common learning technique used in teaching sport. Drills help players to develop the muscular motions and hand or foot and eye coordination necessary for proper actions in that sport. Various teaching aids have been developed for assisting a player to develop the necessary skills. However, most such teaching aids don't give instant feedback to the user if not used correctly and with the proper technique.

In particular, kicking is a fundamental and versatile technique used for passing, shooting and scoring in a number of ball sports. Especially in the field of professional sports, the ability to kick a ball with accuracy and efficiency on a reproducible level is vital. Moreover, there is an urgent need for precision training equipment which suits a variety of kicking techniques. However, there is a paucity of available precision training equipment for kicking. Balls for kicking training have conventionally involved balls which are heavier than match balls or incorporated colours or diagrams on the outside skin of the sports ball however these types of training devices are limited in scope and do not assist with precision training for particular kick techniques.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one form, although it need not be the only or indeed the broadest form, the invention resides in a sports ball for stroke training, comprising:

    • one or more designated energy-absorbing zones; and
    • one or more energy-responsive zones adjacent the one or more designated energy-absorbing zones;
    • wherein the one or more energy-responsive zones are positioned at one or more sweet spots of the sports ball, such that a stroke that strikes an energy-responsive zone results in the sports ball travelling further than the sports ball will travel from a similar stroke that strikes an energy-absorbing zone.

In another form, the invention resides in a modified Australian Rules Football ball for kicking training, comprising:

    • one or more designated energy-absorbing zones; and
    • one or more energy-responsive zones adjacent the one or more designated energy-absorbing zones;
    • wherein the one or more energy-responsive zones are positioned at one or more sweet spots of the sports ball, such that a stroke that strikes an energy-responsive zone results in the sports ball travelling further than the sports ball will travel from a similar stroke that strikes an energy-absorbing zone.

In yet another form, the invention resides in a modified American Rules ball for kicking training, comprising:

    • one or more designated energy-absorbing zones; and
    • one or more energy-responsive zones adjacent the one or more designated energy-absorbing zones;
    • wherein the one or more energy-responsive zones are positioned at one or more sweet spots of the sports ball, such that a stroke that strikes an energy-responsive zone results in the sports ball travelling further than the sports ball will travel from a similar stroke that strikes an energy-absorbing zone.

In still yet another form, the invention resides in a modified soccer ball for kicking training, comprising:

    • one or more designated energy-absorbing zones; and
    • one or more energy-responsive zones adjacent the one or more designated energy-absorbing zones;
    • wherein the one or more energy-responsive zones are positioned at one or more sweet spots of the sports ball, such that a stroke that strikes an energy-responsive zone results in the sports ball travelling further than the sports ball will travel from a similar stroke that strikes an energy-absorbing zone.

In another form, the invention resides in a modified Rugby ball for kicking training, comprising:

    • one or more designated energy-absorbing zones; and
    • one or more energy-responsive zones adjacent the one or more designated energy-absorbing zones;
    • wherein the one or more energy-responsive zones are positioned at one or more sweet spots of the sports ball, such that a stroke that strikes an energy-responsive zone results in the sports ball travelling further than the sports ball will travel from a similar stroke that strikes an energy-absorbing zone.

Preferably, the modified Rugby ball is selected from a modified Rugby Union ball and a Rugby League ball.

In a further form, the invention resides in a modified golf ball, comprising:

    • one or more designated energy-absorbing zones; and
    • one or more energy-responsive zones adjacent the one or more designated energy-absorbing zones;
    • wherein the one or more energy-responsive zones are positioned at one or more sweet spots of the sports ball, such that a stroke that strikes an energy-responsive zone results in the sports ball travelling further than the sports ball will travel from a similar stroke that strikes an energy-absorbing zone.

In preferred embodiments of any one of the aforementioned forms, the sports ball of the present invention is an inflatable sports ball and more preferably, an inflatable sports ball for kicking training.

In other preferred embodiments, the sports ball of the present invention is a not inflatable. More preferably, the non inflatable sports ball is a golf ball for golf stroke or shot training.

In preferred embodiments of any one of the aforementioned forms, the invention resides in a modified sports balls for stroke training.

Preferably, the sports ball or modified ball of any one of the aforementioned forms is an elliptical shape or a round shape.

In preferred embodiments relating to an elliptical shaped inflatable ball, the one or more sweet spots are located towards a first narrow end and/or a second narrow end of the elliptical shaped sports ball and more preferably, the one or more sweet spots are about 4 inches above a first narrow end and a second end. In other preferred embodiments that relate to an elliptical shaped inflatable ball, the one or more sweet spots are located about a substantially central point between a first narrow end and a second narrow end.

In other embodiments that relate to a round inflatable ball, the one or more sweet spots are located about a substantially central point between a first narrow end and a second narrow end.

In a further form, the invention resides in use of a sports ball or a modified sports ball according to any one of the aforementioned forms, for stroke and preferably, kicking training or golf stroke training.

Preferably, the kicking training is for a football code selected from the group consisting of soccer, Australian Rules Football, American Football, Rugby Union and Rugby League.

In preferred embodiments, the kicking training is for a kicking technique selected from the group consisting of a drop punt, a torpedo punt a curve kick and a spiral punt.

In another particular form, the invention resides in a method for sports stroke training, which method includes the step of striking one or more energy-responsive zones positioned at one or more sweet sport on a sports ball such that a stroke that strikes an energy-responsive zone results in the sports ball travelling further than the sports ball will travel from a similar stroke that strike one or more designated energy-absorbing zones adjacent the one or more energy-responsive zones on the sports ball.

In preferred embodiments of this form, the sports ball is the sports ball or the modified sports ball of any one of the aforementioned forms.

Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the words “comprise”, “comprises” and “comprising” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

In order that the invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, preferred embodiments will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying:

FIG. 1A is a sectional side view of a sports ball according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 1B is a rear view of a bladder of the sports ball shown in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2 is a rear view of a bladder according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention

FIG. 3 is an top end view of the bladder shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a rear view of a bladder according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a side view of the bladder shown in FIG. 4; and

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a sports ball according to another embodiment of the present invention.

 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to training balls and more particularly precision training sports balls for stroke training, which are constructed to create an optimal point of impact positioned strategically for the specific sport and chosen technique or method within a particular sport. Therefore in one broad aspect, the invention relates to a modified sports training ball. In preferred embodiments, the invention relates to an inflatable sports ball which has particular use for kicking training. In other preferred embodiments that relate to a non-inflatable sports ball that may be used for, for example, stroke or shot training in golf. Therefore it will be appreciated that a stroke is any action of hitting a ball inclusive of a hitting a ball by a body part such as a foot (such as a kick) or a hand, or hitting a ball with a sports apparatus such as a golf club, racquet and the like.

Reference is made to FIG. 1A being a sectional side view of an inflatable sports ball 10 according to a preferred embodiment that may be used as a training device for kicking techniques used in Australian Rules Football, Rugby Union, Rugby League or American Football (otherwise known as ‘NFL’). These sports game balls are of virtually the same elliptical shape but of different measurements. The inflatable sports ball 10 comprises an outer carcass 11 and a bladder 14 disposed within the interior of the outer carcass 11. The outer carcass 11 includes a durable outer cover and exterior lining (not shown). It will be understood that the outer carcass 11 is manufactured from a material that is suited for the particular sports ball. By way of example, an outer carcass 11 of an NFL ball typically includes leather, although without limitation thereto.

As with conventional inflatable balls, the outer carcass 11 further includes a valve 12 for inflation or deflation of an inner core 15 of the bladder 14. The valve 12 is the insertion point of an inflation needle of an air pump apparatus (not shown). The valve 12 comprises a valve nipple 13a which projects out from the outer carcass 11 and acts as a stabilisation point for insertion needle. Extending from the valve nipple 13a and through the outer carcass 11 is the valve stem 13b which is an access guide for the insertion needle to the valve hole 13c located on the inner bladder 14. As with conventional sports ball, the valve 12 includes a soft sealing mechanism that prevents escape of air in the bladder 14 via the valve stem 13b (not shown).

Reference is made to FIG. 1B showing the bladder 14 of an inflatable sports ball 10 designed for training of a drop punt kick. The drop punt or pooch kick is the most accurate kick in Australian Rules Football and NFL. The drop punt is used in Australian Rules Football for goal kicking but is the least used properly and the most difficult to teach correctly by coaches. For a drop punt kick, the ball is held vertically, dropped and kicked before it hits the ground thus resulting in the ball spinning backwards, end over end. This is the preferred technique for goal kicking in Australian Rules Football and is more accurate and easier to mark than the punt kick, which is held flat and when kicked, spins on its horizontal axis.

The bladder 14 is designed for holding pressurized air as is known in the art and should be able to withstand repeated blows from a kick without rupturing or breaking loose. The bladder 14 is manufactured from or composed of a resilient material that allows energy that is introduced to the bladder 14 to be returned. It will be understood that the material from which the bladder 14 is synthesised will have elastic properties.

In association with the outer surface 19 of the bladder 14 are two (2) designated energy-absorbing zones 16 each in the form of a region of material such as foam, rubber, polymer-based materials or any other nominated material that is able to absorb energy as are known in the art. The thickness of the material forming the energy-absorbing zone will be as required to absorb sufficient energy in the present invention. It will be understood that the designated energy-absorbing zones 16 are thus ‘dead spots’ on the bladder 14 which absorb the force of a kick. In alternative embodiments, the dead spots may be designed into the bladder 14, which is applicable to embodiments of the invention generally this applies to the invention generally. If the bladder 14 is at least partially struck in at least one designated energy-absorbing zones 16, the ball will propel incorrectly through the air or not propel at all, which thus results in a sub-optimal outcome. Therefore, the so-called dead spots provide the user with instant feedback that an improper technique or kicking style was employed. In light of the foregoing, it will be understood that the designated energy-absorbing zones 16 may be adhered either directly or indirectly to the outer surface 19 or alternatively, may be in adhered directly or indirectly with the interior surface of the outer carcass 11.

The placement of the designated energy-absorbing zones 16 in association with the bladder 14 creates an optimal impact zone 18 (otherwise known as “sweet spot”) for a desired kicking technique, and in this preferred embodiment a drop punt or pooch punt. Therefore it will be appreciated that the sweet spot is formed from the material of the bladder or in alternative embodiments, may be formed from another material that has energy-responsive properties. With reference to FIG. 1B and in the context of a drop punt or pooch punt, the optimal impact zone is about four inches above each end point of an inflatable sports ball 10. The kicker's foot should follow through and contact the ball the optimal impact zone 18 for optimal impact and accuracy. The optimal impact zone 18 is an energy-responsive zone which allows the energy introduced into the zone to be returned (as opposed to absorbed). This return in energy propels the ball away from the optimal impact zone 18 thus teaching proper technique and muscle memory and providing instant feedback for the user. Typically, although not exclusively, the optimal impact zone 18 is a region on the bladder 14 which is thus energy resilient. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, one or more energy-responsive zones may be created by application of a suitable material (other than the bladder material) that has resilience. Therefore it will be appreciated that the one or more energy-absorbing zones in combination with the one or more energy-responsive zones creates a zone of impact which, if contacted or struck, results in an optimal outcome or performance.

The inflatable bladder 14 thus herein described will create the normal shape of a chosen sports ball ideally without adding any weight or creation of imbalance in the ball.

FIGS. 2 and 3 show a bladder 20 modified according to the present invention for training of a torpedo or spiral punt. The torpedo punt, which is used in American Football, is a kicking technique implemented to enhance the distance the ball is kicked. A similar but not identical technique is also used in AFL, Rugby Union and Rugby League. The ball spins about its long axis instead of end over end (as the drop punt does), making the flight of the ball aerodynamic, but more difficult to catch. With extra distance, this type of kick is also more difficult to accurately kick and judge depth.

The bladder 20 includes two (2) designated energy-absorbing zones 21 in association with one or more energy responsive zones in the form an optimal zone of impact for a torpedo or spiral punt 22. The optimal zone of impact for a torpedo or spiral punt 22 is typically located in the middle of the ball or slightly to the left or right of the middle if the user of the sport ball is left or right footed. When a user kicks or strikes an inflatable sports ball containing the bladder 20 with the proper technique, the user's foot should come into contact with the optimal zone of impact for a torpedo or spiral punt 22 and release with the desired trajectory. If an incorrect kicking technique is used, the user's foot will at least partially contact at least one designated energy-absorbing zones 21 (otherwise known as a ‘dead spot’), the ball will propel incorrectly through the air or not propel at all, which thus results in a sub-optimal outcome and providing the user with instant feedback that an improper technique or kicking style was employed.

Reference is made to FIGS. 4 and 5 which show a preferred embodiment relating to training of a curve kick for use in soccer. The bladder 30 comprises a designated energy-absorbing zone 31 in combination with two energy-responsive zones in the form of an optimal zone of impact 32 (otherwise referred to as a sweet spot) for a curve kick. The optimal zone of impact 32 is located on the bottom right or left on the underside of the ball when facing the direction of the target choice by user. According to this embodiment, when the user kicks the ball with proper technique for kicking a curve kick, the inside or outside foot of user should come into contact with the optimal zone of impact 32. Once the foot has connected, the energy exchange between the user's foot and the optimal zone of impact 32 will result in the ball flying with near perfection from the foot in the air. If an incorrect technique is used for the curve kick, the foot will at partially connect with the energy-absorbing zone 30 on the bladder, the ball will propel incorrectly through the air or not propel at all, which thus results in a sub-optimal outcome and providing the user with instant feedback that an improper technique or kicking style was employed.

Reference is made to FIG. 6 which depicts a preferred embodiment of the present invention relating to a sports ball for stroke training in golf. The golf ball 40 comprises designated energy-absorbing zones 41 in combination with energy-responsive zone 42. The optimal point of impact (otherwise known as a sweet spot) is in the form of the energy-responsive zone 42 which comprises two bands 43 that pass around the circumference of the golf ball 40 at right angles and intersect at two junctions 44. Preferably, the width of each band is between about 5 mm and about 20 mm. In preferred embodiment, the width of each band is about 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, 13 mm, 14 mm, 15 mm, 16 mm, 17 mm, 18 mm, 19 mm and 20 mm. In preferred embodiments, the designated energy-responsive zone 42 is made from normal golf ball cover material. It would be appreciated by a person of skill in the art that the ultimate aim when hitting a golf ball is that once struck, the ball flies straight without going off course. When using the correct technique for chosen shot i.e driving, chipping and putting, the club will come into contact with the energy responsive zone 42 and the ball will fly off the club allowing the user to feel the ball hit the sweet spot if the user uses the wrong technique i.e dropping the shoulder, lifting their head then the club will come into contact with the designated energy-absorbing zone 41 and give the user instant feedback that the proper technique was not used.

It is understood that all conventional methods of manufacturing a standard sports balls to be used in their usual standard is exercised. Some of the advantages of the present invention are as follows:

    • A sports training device that is useful for all ages and gender.
    • Creates muscle memory.
    • Provision of an inflatable training device that assists with precision training in a wide range of ball sports inclusive of soccer, American football, Australian Rules football, Rugby Union and Rugby League.
    • The training device can be tailored for each chosen sport or chosen technique.

Throughout the specification the aim has been to describe the preferred embodiments of the invention without limiting the invention to any one embodiment or specific collection of features. It will therefore be appreciated by those of skill in the art that, in light of the instant disclosure, various modifications and changes can be made in the particular embodiments exemplified without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A sports ball for stroke training, comprising:

one or more designated energy-absorbing zones; and one or more energy-responsive zones adjacent the one or more designated energy-absorbing zones;
wherein the one or more energy-responsive zones are positioned at one or more sweet spots of the sports ball, such that a stroke that strikes an energy-responsive zone results in the sports ball travelling further than the sports ball will travel from a similar stroke that strikes an energy-absorbing zone.

2. The sports ball of claim 1, which is inflatable.

3. The sports ball of claim 2, wherein the shape of the inflatable sports ball is selected from elliptical and round.

4. The sports ball of claim 3, wherein the shape is elliptical.

5. The sports ball of claim 4, wherein the one or more sweet spots are located towards a first narrow end and/or a second narrow end of the elliptical shaped sports ball.

6. The sports ball of claim 5, wherein the one or more sweet spots are about 4 inches above a first narrow end and a second end.

7. The sports ball of claim 4, wherein the one or more sweet spots are located about a substantially central point between a first narrow end and a second narrow end.

8. The sports ball of claim 3, which is round.

9. The sports ball of claim 8, wherein when the sports ball is placed on the ground, the one or more sweet spots are located towards each lateral periphery of the underside of the sports ball.

10. The sports ball according to claim 2, wherein the one or more energy-responsive zones are the surface of a bladder that is disposed in the interior of the inflatable sports ball.

11. The sports ball of claim 1, wherein the one or more energy—

absorbing zones are located on the surface of a bladder that is disposed in the interior of the inflatable sports ball.

12. The sports ball of claim 1, which is not inflatable.

13. The sports ball of claim 12, which is round.

14. The sports ball of claim 13, which is a golf ball.

15. The sports ball of claim 14, wherein the one or more sweet spots are two bands that pass around the circumference of the golf ball and intersect at two junctions.

16. Use of a sports ball according to claim 1 for kicking training.

17. Use of a sports ball according to claim 16, wherein kicking training is for a football code selected from the group consisting of soccer, Australian Rules Football, American Football, Rugby Union and Rugby League.

18. Use of a sports ball according to claim 17, wherein the football code is selected from the group consisting of Australian Rules Football, American Football, Rugby Union and Rugby League.

19. Use of a sports ball according to claim 18, wherein the football code is Australian Rules Football or American Football.

20. Use of a sports ball according to claim 16, wherein the kicking training is for a kicking technique selected from the group consisting of a drop punt, a torpedo punt and a spiral punt.

21. Use of a sports ball according to claim 17, wherein the football code is soccer.

22. Use of a sports ball according to claim 21, wherein the kicking technique for soccer is a curve kick.

23. Use of a sports ball according to claim 12, for golf stroke training.

24. A method for sports stroke training, which method includes the step of striking one or more energy-responsive zones positioned at one or more sweet sport on a sports ball such that a stroke that strikes an energy-responsive zone results in the sports ball travelling further than the sports ball will travel from a similar stroke that strike one or more designated energy-absorbing zones adjacent the one or more energy-responsive zones on the sports ball.

25. The method for sports stroke training, which method includes the step of striking one or more energy-responsive zones positioned at one or more sweet sport on a sports ball such that a stroke that strikes an energy-responsive zone results in the sports ball travelling further than the sports ball will travel from a similar stroke that strike one or more designated energy-absorbing zones adjacent the one or more energy-responsive zones on the sports ball, wherein the sports ball is the sports ball of claim 1.

Patent History
Publication number: 20140038741
Type: Application
Filed: Feb 15, 2011
Publication Date: Feb 6, 2014
Applicant: OPTIMAL POINT OF IMPACT (OPOI) PTY LTD. ATF OPTIMAL POINT OF IMPACT UNIT TRUST (Tugun, Queensland)
Inventor: Kallem Brooks (Tugun)
Application Number: 13/985,295
Classifications
Current U.S. Class: Practice Projectile (473/280); Practice Or Training Device (473/422); For Football Or Rugby (473/438); For Game Using Apertured Or Pocketed Goal Or Target (e.g., For Hockey, Soccer, Polo, Lacrosse, Etc.) (473/446)
International Classification: A63B 43/00 (20060101); A63B 69/00 (20060101); A63B 69/36 (20060101); A63B 41/08 (20060101);