BATTER TRAINING DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS

Abstract

A device for training a batter includes a top net structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contact the top net, a bottom net structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the bottom net, and a mechanical couple structurally configured to place the device in front of a batter such that the top net is positioned over the bottom net with a void defined between the top net and the bottom net. When the device is placed in front of a batter, the top net may impede movement of balls hit by the batter above a first predetermined launch angle, the bottom net may impede movement of balls hit by the batter below a second predetermined launch angle, and the void may allow for passage of balls hit by the batter below the first predetermined launch angle and above the second predetermined launch angle.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 62/467,732 filed on Mar. 6, 2017, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to devices, systems, and methods for training a batter to contact a ball at preferred launch angles or within a range of certain launch angles.

BACKGROUND

In sports such as baseball and softball, a factor that may be highly pertinent to success of a batter (e.g., in getting a base hit) may be the launch angle of a ball coming off of the bat—the vertical direction of the ball coming off of the bat—when the batter makes contact with the ball. For example, a launch angle of zero degrees could indicate a flat line, with positive launch angles indicating an upward ball flight and negative launch angles indicating a ball driven into the ground. Hitters with higher launch angles tend to produce a lot of fly balls (e.g., pop-ups), while hitters with lower launch angles tend to produce a lot of ground balls (e.g., groundouts). Thus, the launch angle of the ball coming off of the bat can be a factor of the outcome a batter will achieve when making contact with the ball—e.g., whether the batter gets a base hit, whether the batter hits a pop-up or ground ball, the run expectancy or run estimate, whether the batter hits a home run or otherwise hits for power, and so on. For example, it has been found that batters that contact a ball at launch angles between about 11 degrees and about 33 degrees (e.g., about 25 degrees) have a higher chance of producing base hits than batters that contact the ball at other launch angles. This is because balls hit with sharper, extreme launch angles (both positive or negative) may have a greater chance of finding their way into fielders' gloves as either pop-ups or groundouts. While many batting training techniques exist, few techniques train batters to contact a ball at specific launch angles, or between a certain range of launch angles, and thus, there remains a need for improved devices, systems, and methods for training a batter to contact a ball at preferred launch angles or within a range of preferred launch angles.

SUMMARY

The present teachings include a device for training a batter, the device including a top net structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contact the top net, a bottom net structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the bottom net, and a mechanical couple structurally configured to place the device in front of a batter such that the top net is positioned over the bottom net with a void defined between the top net and the bottom net. When the device is placed in front of a batter, the top net may impede movement of balls hit by the batter above a first predetermined launch angle, the bottom net may impede movement of balls hit by the batter below a second predetermined launch angle, and the void may allow for passage of balls hit by the batter below the first predetermined launch angle and above the second predetermined launch angle.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present teachings will become better understood with reference to the following description, examples, and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the devices, systems, and methods described herein will be apparent from the following description of particular embodiments thereof, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the devices, systems, and methods described herein. In the drawings, like reference numerals generally identify corresponding elements.

FIG. 1 shows a front view of a device for training a batter, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

FIG. 2 shows a system for training a batter in use in a batting cage, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

FIG. 3 shows a device for training a batter in use in a playing field, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

FIG. 4 shows a device for training a batter, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a method for training a batter, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

FIG. 6 shows a front view of a device for training a batter, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

FIG. 7 shows a view through Section A-A of FIG. 6, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

FIG. 8 shows a rear view of a device for training a batter, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying figures, in which preferred embodiments are shown. The foregoing may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the illustrated embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these illustrated embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will convey the scope to those skilled in the art.

All documents mentioned herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. References to items in the singular should be understood to include items in the plural, and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise or clear from the text. Grammatical conjunctions are intended to express any and all disjunctive and conjunctive combinations of conjoined clauses, sentences, words, and the like, unless otherwise stated or clear from the context. Thus, the term “or” should generally be understood to mean “and/or” and so forth.

Recitation of ranges of values herein are not intended to be limiting, referring instead individually to any and all values falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value within such a range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. The words “about,” “approximately” or the like, when accompanying a numerical value, are to be construed as indicating a deviation as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art to operate satisfactorily for an intended purpose. Similarly, words of approximation such as “about,” “approximately,” or “substantially” when used in reference to physical characteristics, should be understood to contemplate a range of deviations that would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art to operate satisfactorily for a corresponding use, function, purpose, or the like. Ranges of values and/or numeric values are provided herein as examples only, and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of the described embodiments. Where ranges of values are provided, they are also intended to include each value within the range as if set forth individually, unless expressly stated to the contrary. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (“e.g.,” “such as,” or the like) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the embodiments and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the embodiments. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any unclaimed element as essential to the practice of the embodiments.

In the following description, it is understood that terms such as “first,” “second,” “top,” “bottom,” “up,” “down,” and the like, are words of convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms unless specifically stated to the contrary.

Described herein are devices, systems, and methods for training a batter, and more specifically for training a batter to contact a ball at specific launch angles. As discussed above, in sports like baseball and softball, a relevant factor to the success of a batter (e.g., in getting a base hit) is the launch angle of the ball coming off of the batter's bat. Batters with higher launch angles tend to produce a lot of fly balls (e.g., pop-ups), while batters with lower launch angles tend to produce a lot of ground balls (e.g., groundouts). In this manner, the launch angle of the ball coming off of a batter's bat may be an indication of the type of contact the batter will make, and can be instructive in determining what outcome the batter will achieve when making contact with the ball—e.g., whether the batter gets a base hit, whether the batter hits a pop-up or ground ball, the run expectancy or run estimate of the batter's contact, whether the batter hits a home run, and so on. For example, it has been found that batters that contact a ball at launch angles between about 11 degrees and about 33 degrees (e.g., about 25 degrees) have a higher chance of producing desirous results (e.g., base hits) than batters that contact the ball at other launch angles. This may be because balls hit with sharper, extreme launch angles (both positive or negative) have a higher percentage of finding their way into fielders' gloves as either pop-ups or groundouts. Therefore, the devices, systems, and methods described herein may be used to train a batter to contact a ball at preferred launch angles or within a range of certain launch angles.

It will be understood that “launch angles” as described herein may refer to the angle that a ball (or the like) comes off of a batter's bat (or the like). Thus, a launch angle may be measured relative to a bat of a batter, or relative to a plane or axis substantially parallel with level ground, and may include the vertical direction of the ball coming off of the bat when the batter makes contact with the ball relative to this axis. For example, a launch angle of zero degrees may indicate a flat line (e.g., along an x-y plane), with positive launch angles (relative to a z-axis) indicating an upward ball flight and negative launch angles (relative to a z-axis) indicating a ball driven into the ground. It will be further understood that the launch angle may be measured relative to another point of reference, or using different coordinate systems or measurements.

It will be understood that, although this disclosure may primarily refer to “batting,” “bats,” “batters,” “hitters,” “balls,” and the like, as those terms are used in baseball or softball, for example, the devices, systems, and methods described herein may be adapted for, or used in, other sports and other uses. For example, the launch angle may refer to the angle of a ball or other item leaving another surface when being struck, such as a club (e.g., a golf club hitting a golf ball), a cricket bat, a stick, a fungo bat, a racket (e.g., a tennis racket hitting a tennis ball), a paddle, a tool, and the like. In this manner, the devices, systems, and methods described herein may be used for any of the aforementioned sports, related applications, and otherwise. Similarly, the devices, systems, and methods described herein may be adapted for sports uses as well as non-sports uses.

In addition to launch angles, other analytics may also or instead be used in conjunction with the devices, systems, and methods described herein. For example, exit velocity may be measured, which, when used in conjunction with launch angles and launch angle training, can be used to estimate the success a batter may have, and can be used to improve a batter's skill level. For example, sensors may be disposed on or near the devices, systems, and methods described herein, which can provide useful information for training—e.g., force sensors for determining exit velocity or speed sensors for determining a batter's bat speed.

FIG. 1 is a front view of a device for training a batter, in accordance with a representative embodiment. The device 100 may be used to train a batter to contact a ball at or between specific launch angles, e.g., launch angles at or between about 11 degrees and about 33 degrees. In certain aspects, the device 100 generally includes a top net 110, a bottom net 120, and a void 130 defined therebetween. In this manner, when the device 100 is placed in front of a batter, balls hit by the batter having certain trajectories corresponding to certain launch angles will either: (i) be impeded by the top net 110, e.g., when hit at launch angles above a predetermined top threshold; (ii) be impeded by the bottom net 120, e.g., when hit at launch angles below a predetermined bottom threshold; or (iii) pass through the void 130, e.g., when hit at launch angles between the top and bottom thresholds.

Thus, in general, the device 100 may include a top net 110 structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the top net 110, and a bottom net 120 structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the bottom net 120. The device 100 may also include one or more mechanical couples 102 structurally configured to place the device 100 in front of a batter such that the top net 110 is positioned over the bottom net 120 with a void 130 defined between the top net 110 and the bottom net 120. When the device 100 is placed in front of a batter, the top net 110 may impede movement of balls hit by the batter above a first predetermined launch angle, the bottom net 120 may impede movement of balls hit by the batter below a second predetermined launch angle, and the void 130 may allow for passage of balls hit by the batter below the first predetermined launch angle and above the second predetermined launch angle.

In certain implementations, the first predetermined launch angle is about 33 degrees and the second predetermined launch angle is about 11 degrees. However, it will be understood that these launch angles are provided by way of example only, and not of limitation. Thus, other launch angles are possible for one or more of the first predetermined launch angle and the second predetermined launch angle. For example, a batter may desire to train to hit more ground balls, and thus, one or more of the first predetermined launch angle and the second predetermined launch angle may be set accordingly (e.g., decreased). Similarly, a batter may desire to train to hit more balls in the air, and thus, one or more of the first predetermined launch angle and the second predetermined launch angle may be set accordingly (e.g., increased). A batter may also or instead desire to hit a ball within a larger range, or a smaller range, of launch angles than those specified herein, which again are provided by way of example. All of these implementations are contemplated herein and shall be understood to be included in this disclosure.

The device 100 may further include one or more connectors (e.g., a first connector 140 and a second connector 141) coupling the top net 110 with the bottom net 120. As shown in the figure, this may include a first connector 140 coupling the top net 110 with the bottom net 120, where the first connector 140 extends between a bottom edge 117 of the top net 110 and a top edge 125 of the bottom net 120, and where the first connector 140 is substantially disposed along a left edge 111 of the top net 110 and a left edge 121 of the bottom net 120. This may also include a second connector 141 coupling the top net 110 with the bottom net 120, where the second connector 141 extends between the bottom edge 117 of the top net 110 and the top edge 125 of the bottom net 120, and where the second connector 141 is substantially disposed along a right edge 113 of the top net 110 and a right edge 123 of the bottom net 120.

As discussed above, the device 100 may include one or more mechanical couples 102. The mechanical couples 102 may be structurally configured for hanging the device 100 in front of the batter. When the device 100 is hung, the weight of one or more of the top net 110 and the bottom net 120 may maintain a predetermined shape of the device 100, e.g., the shape shown in FIG. 1 or another shape. The mechanical couples 102 may include at least one of an aperture (e.g., a grommet as shown in the figure), a sleeve, a tether, a tie, a strap, a clip, a clamp, a hook, a latch, a screw, a pin, a snap, and the like. The mechanical couples 102 may be structurally configured to couple the device 100 to at least a portion of a batting cage. For example, one or more of the mechanical couples 102 may engage with a rope, a wire, or a netting disposed on or within the batting cage. For example, a batting cage may include a wire or rope strung between two or more turnbuckles or the like, and netting or the like draped around the wire or rope. The mechanical couples 102 may engage with one or more of the wire, the rope, or the netting of such a batting cage arrangement.

In certain implementations, in addition to or instead of providing a hanging structure for the device 100, the mechanical couples 102 and/or the connectors may form at least a part of a structural frame for holding the top net 110 and the bottom net 120 in front of the batter. In this manner, the device 100 may be a standalone structure that can be placed in front of a batter, e.g., in front of home plate on a baseball diamond. Additionally, or alternatively, the device 100 may further include a structural frame for engaging with other mechanical couples 102 such as those described above (i.e., an aperture, a sleeve, and so on), e.g., where the structural frame is configured for holding the top net 110 and the bottom net 120 in front of a batter. Thus, an exterior border of the device 100, or another portion of the device 100, may include a sleeve, a strap, a clip, or similar feature, where the structural frame engages with one or more of these features for holding the device 100 in a predetermined configuration in front of a user. In some implementations, the predetermined configuration for the device 100 is adjustable, and thus, the mechanical couples 102 may provide for such adjustability. Also, or instead, such a structural frame may hold one or more of the top net 110 and the bottom net 120 in front of a batter independent of one another, e.g., where there is no first connector 140 or second connector 141, or the connectors are removable.

In general, one or more mechanical couples 102 may be disposed on the top net 110 as shown in the figure, where the mechanical couples 102 are structurally configured for placing or hanging the device 100 in front of a batter such that: (i) the front surface 112 of the top net 110 impedes movement of balls hit by the batter above a first predetermined launch angle, (ii) the front surface 122 of the bottom net 120 impedes movement of balls hit by the batter below a second predetermined launch angle, and (iii) a void 130 defined between the top net 110 and the bottom net 120 allows for the passage of balls hit by the batter below the first predetermined launch angle and above the second predetermined launch angle.

The top net 110 may include a front surface 112 having a substantially rectangular shape. Other shapes are also or instead possible for the top net 110. The top net 110 may include a left edge 111, a right edge 113, a top edge 115, and a bottom edge 117. The left edge 111 and the right edge 113 may define a height H1 of the top net 110, which is bounded by the top edge 115 and the bottom edge 117. The top edge 115 and the bottom edge 117 may define a width W1 of the top net 110, which is bounded by the left edge 111 and the right edge 113. The front surface 112 of the top net 110 may be made from a material selected to impede movement of a ball that contacts the front surface 112 of the top net 110.

The bottom net 120 may include a front surface 122 having a substantially rectangular shape. Other shapes are also or instead possible for the bottom net 120. The bottom net 120 may include a left edge 121, a right edge 123, a top edge 125, and a bottom edge 127. The left edge 121 and the right edge 123 may define a height H2 of the bottom net 120, which is bounded by the top edge 125 and the bottom edge 127. The top edge 125 and the bottom edge 127 may define a width W2 of the bottom net 120, which is bounded by the left edge 121 and the right edge 123. The front surface 122 of the bottom net 120 may be made from a material selected to impede movement of a ball that contacts the front surface 122 of the bottom net 120.

The material of one or more of the front surface 112 of the top net 110 and the front surface 122 of the bottom net 120 may include a mesh material or the like, e.g., a netting. One or more of the front surface 112 of the top net 110 and the front surface 122 of the bottom net 120 may also or instead be substantially opaque. In this manner, the front surface 112 of the top net 110 and the front surface 122 of the bottom net 120 may establish a contrasting appearance relative to a void 130 defined therebetween. In some implementations, the top net 110 and the bottom net 120 may be made from the same or similar materials, while in other implementations, the top net 110 and the bottom net 120 may be made from different materials, or may otherwise include different aesthetic characteristics, e.g., textures, colors, patterns, and so on.

The void 130 may include a negative space as shown in the figure, which can allow a ball to pass straight through without impeding its path of travel. In another aspect, the void 130 may include a positive space in addition to, or instead of, the positive surfaces of the top net 110 and the bottom net 120. For example, the void 130 may be made from a different material than the top net 110 and the bottom net 120, or the void 130 may be made from the same or similar material, but have a different color or other aesthetic look such that a batter can recognize a difference between a ball striking the void 130 as opposed to the top net 110 or the bottom net 120. For instance, the void 130 may include a target or the like disposed thereon, or one or more of the top net 110 and the bottom net 120 may include such a target. In certain aspects, the void 130 impedes movement of a ball, but the top net 110 and the bottom net 120 allow a ball to pass through, e.g., so a batter knows that a preferred launch angle was achieved if the struck ball is impeded by the void 130, which, as stated above, can include a target or the like.

One or more of the left edge 111, 121, the right edge 113, 123, the top edge 115, 125, and the bottom edge 117, 127, of one or more of the top net 110 and the bottom net 120, may include a brightly colored band of material. The connectors (e.g., the first connector 140 and the second connector 141) may also or instead include a brightly colored band of material. Such a brightly colored band of material may include a substantially neon color (e.g., yellow or green), and/or reflective surfaces.

A height of the entire device 100 may be between 3880 millimeters and 3940 millimeters (e.g., 3910 millimeters). The height H1 of the top net 110 may be between 470 millimeters and 500 millimeters (e.g., 485 millimeters). The height H2 of the bottom net 120 may be between 1325 millimeters and 1365 millimeters (e.g., 1345 millimeters). Thus, the void 130 may include a height of about 2080 millimeters. One or more of the width W1 of the top net 110 and the width W2 of the bottom net 120 may be between 4045 millimeters and 4140 millimeters (e.g., 4060 millimeters). Other dimensions are also or instead possible, and it will be understood that the aforementioned dimensions are provided by way of example, and not of limitation.

The device 100 may further include one or more adjustment mechanisms for positioning the entire device 100, or for positioning one or more elements, components, or portions of the device 100. For example, the device 100 may include a first adjustment mechanism 150 structurally configured to adjust a position of one or more of the top net 110 and the bottom net 120. The first adjustment mechanism 150 may be structurally configured to adjust one or more of the height H1 of the top net 110 and the height H2 of the bottom net 120, e.g., their position relative to one another or their actual dimensional measurement. For example, the first adjustment mechanism 150 may be structurally configured to adjust a position along a z-axis 104 of one or more of the entire top net 110 or the entire bottom net 120, e.g., while maintaining the dimensions of their height H1, H2. Additionally, or alternatively, the dimensions of the height H1, H2 of the top net 110 or the bottom net 120 may be adjusted by the first adjustment mechanism 150. It will be understood that adjusting the height H1 of the top net 110, or adjusting a position along the z-axis 104 of the entire top net 110, may change the first predetermined launch angle; similarly, adjusting the height H2 of the bottom net 120, or adjusting a position along the z-axis 104 of the entire bottom net 120, may change the second predetermined launch angle.

The device 100 may also or instead include a second adjustment mechanism 151, which may be structurally configured to adjust a distance of the device 100 from the batter. The device 100 may also or instead include a third adjustment mechanism 152, which may be structurally configured to adjust a position of the entire device 100 along the z-axis 104. In certain aspects, two or more of the first adjustment mechanism 150, the second adjustment mechanism 151, and third adjustment mechanism 152 are part of a single adjustment system.

One or more of the adjustment mechanisms described herein may include a ratcheting system. Other adjustment mechanisms are also or instead possible including without limitation one or more of a pulley, a winch, a gear, a hoist, a belt, and the like. For example, an adjustment mechanism may be used to adjust a distance of the device 100 from a batter.

In certain aspects, the device 100 is sized and shaped such that, when the device 100 is placed between about 12 feet and about 18 feet from the batter, the first predetermined launch angle is greater than or equal to about 33 degrees and the second predetermined launch angle is less than or equal to about 11 degrees.

FIG. 2 shows a system for training a batter in use in a batting cage, in accordance with a representative embodiment. The system 200 may include a device 100 such as that described above with reference to FIG. 1, or the system 200 may include another device for training a batter 201 as described herein. Thus, in certain implementations, the system 200 may include a device 100 having a top net 110 structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the top net 110, a bottom net 120 structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the bottom net 120, and a void 130 defined between the top net 110 and the bottom net 120. As described herein, the device 100 may be structurally configured such that, when the device is placed in front of a batter 201, such as in a batting cage 260 as shown in the figure, the top net 110 impedes movement of balls hit by the batter 201 above a first predetermined launch angle, the bottom net 120 impedes movement of balls hit by the batter 201 below a second predetermined launch angle, and the void 130 allows for passage of balls hit by the batter 201 below the first predetermined launch angle and above the second predetermined launch angle.

As shown in the figure, the device 100 may be placed for use within the batting cage 260. The batting cage 260 may include a housing 262, which may be at least partially made from netting or the like that defines one or more walls or surfaces of the housing 262. The batting cage 260 may include a pitching machine 264 or the like (e.g., a designated area for a human pitcher to throw balls toward the batter 201, which may include a protected area) for directing balls toward the batter 201 for training and use of the batting cage 260. It will be understood that the batting cage 260 shown in the figure is provided by way of example, and many batting cages 260 in the art can be adapted for use with the device 100 as described herein. Similarly, the batting cage 260 shown in the figure is provided by way of representation, e.g., where some walls of the housing 262 are shown without netting or other protection so that the contents of the batting cage 260 are clearly visible.

In certain aspects, the device 100 may be placed between 12 feet and 18 feet from the batter 201 within the batting cage 200. The device 100 may also or instead be placed within the batting cage 200 such that certain launch angles of balls hit by the batter 201 will engage with certain portions of the device 100—e.g., balls having certain, predetermined launch angles will either hit the top net 110, hit the bottom net 120, or pass through the void 130. In certain implementations, the device 100 may be placed such that the first predetermined launch angle of balls hit by the batter 201 that will contact the top net 110 is greater than or equal to a desired launch angle (e.g., about 33 degrees), the second predetermined launch angle of balls hit by the batter 201 that will contact the bottom net 120 is less than or equal to another, different desired launch angle (e.g., about 11 degrees), and balls hit by the batter 201 between these launch angles will pass through the void 130. The void 130 may also be positioned such that balls directed toward the batter 201 (e.g., pitched to the batter 201 manually or automatically) will pass through the void 130, and where the balls pass through in a manner in which the batter 201 has a relatively unobstructed view of the balls as they travel toward the batter 201.

Three examples of balls struck by the batter 201 are shown in the figure. Specifically, the first ball 202 is shown having a trajectory in which it will contact the top net 110. Thus, the first ball 202 may have been struck by the batter 201 at a launch angle that is above a predetermined upper threshold, where balls hit at launch angles greater than this predetermined upper threshold will contact the top net 110 (or the top surface of the housing 262 of the batting cage 260). In certain aspects, the predetermined upper threshold is about 33 degrees, but other values for the predetermined upper threshold are possible. The second ball 204 is shown having a trajectory in which it will contact the bottom net 110. Thus, the second ball 204 may have been struck by the batter 201 at a launch angle that is below a predetermined lower threshold, where balls hit at launch angles less than this predetermined lower threshold will contact the bottom net 120 (or the ground 203 or floor of the batting cage 260). In certain aspects, the predetermined lower threshold is about 11 degrees, but other values for the predetermined lower threshold are possible. The third ball 206 is shown having a trajectory in which it will pass through the void 130. Thus, the third ball 206 may have been struck by the batter 201 at a launch angle that is between the predetermined lower threshold and the predetermined upper threshold, e.g., between about 11 degrees and about 33 degrees.

The device 100 may be engaged with the batting cage 260 or a portion thereof in certain implementations. For example, the device 100 may include one or more mechanical couples 102 structurally configured to couple the device 100 to at least a portion of the batting cage 260. In certain aspects, the mechanical couples 102 include one or more of an aperture, a sleeve, a tether, a tie, a grommet, and the like—e.g., a strap as shown in the figure. Other mechanical couples 102 are also or instead possible, e.g., as described elsewhere herein. In certain implementations, the mechanical couples 102 may engage with a wire 266 (e.g., a cable, a rope, and the like) of the batting cage 260. For instance, certain batting cages 260 have housings 262 that are at least partially made of a net or netting that is supported by one or more wires 266 or the like, and the device 100 may be supported at least partially by such wires 266. The device 100 may also or instead be supported by other portions of the batting cage 260 such as the housing 262, a net or netting, a support structure, a frame, and the like. Thus, in some aspects, the device 100 is hung from a portion of the batting cage 260.

In other implementations, the device 100 is a standalone device that can be placed within the batting cage 260 without external support from the batting cage 260, e.g., where the device 100 is otherwise not engaged with the batting cage 260 or a portion thereof. For example, the device 100 may be supported by a frame or the like as shown by way of example in FIG. 3 described herein.

The device 100 may be movable and adjustable within the batting cage 260, e.g., for adjusting its interaction with different launch angles hit by a batter 201, or for set up, storage, or the like. To this end, and as discussed with reference to FIG. 1 above, the device 100 may include one or more adjustment mechanisms 250. Such adjustment mechanisms 250 may be structurally configured to adjust a position of one or more of the top net 110, the bottom net 120, or the entire device 100 within the batting cage 260. For example, an adjustment mechanism 250 may adjust one or more of the height of the top net 110 and the height of the bottom net 120, e.g., where adjusting the height of the top net 110 changes a predetermined upper threshold of launch angle and adjusting the height of the bottom net 120 changes a predetermined lower threshold of launch angle. The adjustment mechanisms 250 may also or instead adjust one or more of a distance of the device 100 from the batter 201, a z-axis position of the entire device 100 (e.g., moving the entire device 100 up or down, or rolling up or otherwise gathering the device 100 for storage or the like), and so on. To this end, an adjustment mechanism 250 may include a plurality of independent or cooperating movement mechanisms and components.

The adjustment mechanisms 250 may be manually actuatable, mechanically actuatable, electrically actuatable, and combinations thereof. In certain implementations, the adjustment mechanisms 250 may be in communication with a controller 270 or the like. The controller 270 may include, or otherwise be in communication with, a processor 272 and a memory 274. The controller 270 may be electronically coupled (e.g., wired or wirelessly) in a communicating relationship with one or more of the components of the system 200. Thus, in an implementation, the controller 270 may include a processor 272 and a memory 274, where the processor 272 is configured to control one or more of the device 100 (e.g., the adjustment mechanisms 250 of the device 100) and the batting cage 260 itself (e.g., the pitching machine 264 or the like).

As discussed above, the controller 270 may be operable to control the components of the system 200, where the controller 270 may include any combination of software and/or processing circuitry suitable for controlling the various components of the system 200 described herein including without limitation processors, microprocessors, microcontrollers, application-specific integrated circuits, programmable gate arrays, and any other digital and/or analog components, as well as combinations of the foregoing, along with inputs and outputs for transceiving control signals, drive signals, power signals, sensor signals, and the like. In certain implementations, the controller 270 may include the processor 272 or other processing circuitry with sufficient computational power to provide related functions such as executing an operating system, providing a graphical user interface (e.g., to a display coupled to the controller 270, the device 100, the batting cage 260, or another component of the system 200), set and provide rules and instructions for operation of a component of the system 200, convert sensed information into instructions, and operate a web server or otherwise host remote operators and/or activity through the communications interface 276 such as that described below. In certain implementations, the controller 270 may include a printed circuit board, an Arduino controller or similar, a Raspberry Pi controller or the like, a prototyping board, or other computer-related components.

The controller 270 may be a local controller disposed on or within the device 100, or a remote controller 270 otherwise in communication with components of the system 200. For example, one or more of the controller 270 and a user interface in communication with the controller 270 may be disposed on an external component (e.g., a computing device 278) in communication with one or more components of the system 200 over a data network 280.

The processor 272 may be any as described herein or otherwise known in the art. The processor 272 may be included on the controller 270, or it may be separate from the controller 270, e.g., it may be included on a computing device 278 in communication with the controller 270 or another component of the system 200. In an implementation, the processor 272 is included on or in communication with a server that hosts an application for operating and controlling the system 200.

The memory 274 may be any as described herein or otherwise known in the art. The memory 274 may contain computer code and may store data such as sequences of actuation for the device 100. The memory 274 may contain computer executable code stored thereon that provides instructions for the processor 272 for implementation. The memory 274 may include a non-transitory computer readable medium.

The system 200 may include a computing device 278 in communication with one or more of the components of the system 200 including without limitation the controller 270. The computing device 278 may include any devices within the system 200 operated by operators or otherwise to manage, monitor, communicate with, or otherwise interact with other participants in the system 200. This may include desktop computers, laptop computers, network computers, tablets, smartphones, smart watches, PDAs, or any other device that can participate in the system 200 as contemplated herein. In an implementation, the computing device 278 (and a user interface thereof) is integral with another participant in the system 200.

The data network 280 may be any network(s) or internetwork(s) suitable for communicating data and control information among participants in the system 200. This may include public networks such as the Internet, private networks, telecommunications networks such as the Public Switched Telephone Network or cellular networks using third generation (e.g., 3G or IMT-2000), fourth generation (e.g., LTE (E-UTRA) or WiMAX-Advanced (IEEE 802.16m) and/or other technologies, as well as any of a variety of corporate area or local area networks and other switches, routers, hubs, gateways, and the like that might be used to carry data among participants in the system 200. The data network 280 may include wired or wireless networks, or any combination thereof. One skilled in the art will also recognize that the participants shown the system 200 need not be connected by a data network 280, and thus can be configured to work in conjunction with other participants independent of the data network 280.

Communication over the data network 280, or other communication between components of the system 200 described herein, may be provided via one or more communications interfaces 276. The communications interface 276 may include, e.g., a Wi-Fi receiver and transmitter to allow logic calculations to be performed on a separate computing device 278. This may include connections to smartphone applications and the like. More generally, the communications interface 276 may be suited such that any of the components of the system 200 can communicate with one another. Thus, the communications interface 276 may be present on one or more of the components of the system 200. The communications interface 276 may include, or be connected in a communicating relationship with, a network interface or the like. The communications interface 276 may include any combination of hardware and software suitable for coupling the components of the system 200 to a remote device (e.g., a computing device 278 such as a remote computer or the like) in a communicating relationship through a data network 280. By way of example and not limitation, this may include electronics for a wired or wireless Ethernet connection operating according to the IEEE 802.11 standard (or any variation thereof), or any other short or long-range wireless networking components or the like. This may include hardware for short-range data communications such as Bluetooth or an infrared transceiver, which may be used to couple into a local area network or the like that is in turn coupled to a data network such as the internet. This may also or instead include hardware/software for a WiMAX connection or a cellular network connection (using, e.g., CDMA, GSM, LTE, or any other suitable protocol or combination of protocols). Additionally, the controller 270 may be configured to control participation by the components of the system 200 in any network to which the communications interface 276 is connected, such as by autonomously connecting to the data network 280 to retrieve status updates and the like.

The system 200 may include other hardware 282. In certain implementations, the other hardware 282 may include a power source. The power source may be any known in the art or that will become known in the art. The other hardware 282 may also or instead include input devices such as a keyboard, a touchpad, a computer mouse, a switch, a dial, a button, and the like, as well as output devices such as a display, a speaker or other audio transducer, light emitting diodes or other lighting or display components, and the like. Other hardware 282 of system 200 may also or instead include a variety of cable connections and/or hardware adapters for connecting to, e.g., external computers, external hardware, external instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and the like.

The system 200 may further include one or more sensors 284, such as an optical sensor or a camera, a pressure sensor, a force sensor, a position sensor, a speed sensor, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and the like. The sensor 284 may be in communication with any of the components in the system 200 as described herein. In certain implementations, sensors 284 are embedded within or included on the device 100 or the batting cage 261 for sensing information related to balls hit by the batter 201.

The sensors 284 may also or instead be used for developing statistics and analytics that are used for evaluating a batter 201, a training session or regimen, a team, and the like. For example, the sensors 284 may be used to measure exit velocity, which, when used in conjunction with launch angles and launch angle training, can be used to estimate the success a batter 201 may have, and can be used to improve skill level. Other information may also or instead be measured with a sensor 284, including without limitation, one or more of bat speed, bat angle, position, trajectory, pitch speed, pitch count, and the like.

FIG. 3 shows a device for training a batter in use in a playing field, in accordance with a representative embodiment. The device 300 may be the same or similar to devices described elsewhere herein, but may further include mechanical couples for placing the device 300 in front of a batter 301 where those mechanical couples form a structural frame 302. Also, or instead, the structural frame 302 may engage with one or more mechanical couples such as rivets or the like included on netting or other material that form the device 300, where the structural frame 302 is configured for holding the top net 310 and the bottom net 320 in front of the batter 301 in a predetermined configuration. Such a structural frame 302 may be used to place the device 300 in front of a batter 301 on a field of play 303 (e.g., a baseball diamond or the like) as shown in the figure, or in a batting cage or the like.

The structural frame 302 may be made from similar materials as L-shaped frames typically used for pitchers in batting practice for protection. For example, metal or plastic tubing may be used for the structural frame 302, which may include a padding or the like. The structural frame 302 may form a substantially rectangular shape as shown in the figure. The structural frame 302 may be engaged with a stand 304 or the like, such as legs or other supports. For mobility, the device 300 may include wheels or the like.

FIG. 4 shows a device for training a batter, in accordance with a representative embodiment. The device 400 may be the same or similar to other devices described elsewhere herein, but, instead of the void as described herein, the device 400 may include a middle portion 430 structurally configured to impede balls hit by a batter between certain predetermined launch angles. In this manner, the middle portion 430 may include a netting-like material or similar. The middle portion 430 may also include a hole 432 such that balls can be pitched to a batter through the middle portion 430, e.g., manually or automatically.

The device 400 may further include a top portion 410 and a bottom portion 420, above and below the middle portion 430, respectively. One or more of the top portion 410 and the bottom portion 420 may be defined by a void, e.g., where balls hit by a batter above a first predetermined launch angle will pass through the top portion 410, balls hit by a batter below a second predetermined launch angle will pass through the bottom portion 420, and the middle portion 430 substantially impedes balls hit by a batter below the first predetermined launch angle and above the second predetermined launch angle. One or more of the top portion 410 and the bottom portion 420 may instead include surfaces that substantially impede balls hit by a batter, e.g., where one or more of the top portion 410 and the bottom portion 420 include a netting. In such instances, a material of the top portion 410 and the bottom portion 420 may be distinguished from the middle portion 430 by the inclusion of a border, by having a different material characteristic (e.g., a different color, a different texture, a different opacity, and so on), by having a different shape, and the like.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a method for training a batter, in accordance with a representative embodiment. The method 500 may utilize any of the devices and systems described herein, e.g., a device including a top net structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the top net and a bottom net structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the bottom net, where, when the device is placed in front of a batter, the top net impedes movement of balls hit by the batter above a first predetermined launch angle, the bottom net impedes movement of balls hit by the batter below a second predetermined launch angle, and a void formed therebetween allows for passage of balls hit by the batter below the first predetermined launch angle and above the second predetermined launch angle.

As shown in step 502, the method 500 may include positioning a top net in front of a batter, where the top net is structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the top net.

As shown in step 504, the method 500 may include positioning a bottom net in front of a batter, where the bottom net is structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the bottom net.

As shown in step 506, the method 500 may include aligning the top net and the bottom net to define a void between the top net and the bottom net. As discussed herein, the top net may be positioned to impede movement of balls hit by the batter above a first predetermined launch angle, the bottom net may be positioned to impede movement of balls hit by the batter below a second predetermined launch angle, and the void may be positioned to allow for passage of balls hit by the batter below the first predetermined launch angle and above the second predetermined launch angle.

As shown in step 508, the method 500 may include impeding balls that are hit by a batter at predetermined launch angles, e.g., within a range of desirable or undesirable launch angles.

FIG. 6 shows a front view of a device for training a batter, in accordance with a representative embodiment. The device 600 may be the same or similar to other devices described herein for training a batter. Thus, in certain implementations, the device 600 may include a top net 610 structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the top net 610, a bottom net 620 structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the bottom net 620, and a void 630 defined between the top net 610 and the bottom net 620. As described herein, the device 600 may be structurally configured such that, when the device 600 is placed in front of a batter, the top net 610 impedes movement of balls hit by the batter above a first predetermined launch angle, the bottom net 620 impedes movement of balls hit by the batter below a second predetermined launch angle, and the void 630 allows for passage of balls hit by the batter below the first predetermined launch angle and above the second predetermined launch angle.

As discussed herein, the device 600 may include one or more mechanical couples 602, which may take the form of straps or similar, as shown in the figure. The mechanical couples 602 (e.g., straps) may be structurally configured to place the device 600 in front of a batter, such as by hanging the device 600 from a portion of a batting cage, a structural frame, or similar. In certain implementations, straps that form the mechanical couples 602 may be made of a nylon webbing material, e.g., formed in a loop. The mechanical couples 602 may be adjustable, e.g., for loosening or tightening a connection of the device 600 to an external structure. In this manner, the mechanical couples 602 may include a cam buckle or the like, e.g., a spring-loaded cam buckle for adjustment of the mechanical couples 602.

One or more of the top net 610 and the bottom net 620 may be made from a netting-like material as described herein, e.g., a polyester mesh material. One or more of the top net 610 and the bottom net 620 may include a logo, banner, sign, marking, or other display, decoration, or the like.

As discussed herein, the device 600 may include connectors 640 that join the top net 610 and the bottom net 620. The connectors 640 may be made from a fabric material, such that the device 600 is foldable or rollable, e.g., for storage, for adjustment (e.g., height adjustment or leveling), and the like. For example, the connectors 640 may be made from a polyester material or the like (e.g., 600D polyester) that is backed or coated with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or the like for added strength and durability. The borders of the top net 610 and the bottom net 620 (e.g., the left edge, right edge, top edge, and bottom edge of the top net 610 and the bottom net 620) may be made from the same material as the connectors 640, a similar material, or a different material.

In certain implementations, the connectors 640 may include one or more connector straps 644. The connector straps 644 may allow for height adjustment of each side of the device 600 (e.g., the left and right sides in the figure), independent of one another or in a coordinated manner. The connector straps 644 may be threaded or woven through each of the connectors 640. In this manner, adjustment of the connectors 640 via the connector straps 644 may be possible—e.g., the connector straps 644 may act as a drawstring through the connectors 640, where tightening the connector straps 644 may cinch-up the connectors 640 thereby reducing the overall height of the device 100 and loosening the connector straps 644 may expand the connectors 640 thereby increasing the overall height of the device 100.

As stated above, each of the connectors 640 may be adjusted independently using the connector straps 644. This may be advantageous, e.g., for batting cages having a floor or ground surface that is not level, where one or more of the top net 610 and the bottom net 620 can be leveled through the adjustment of one or more of the connectors 640 of the device 600, using the connector straps 644. Also, or instead, adjustment of the connectors 640 using the connector straps 644 can allow for height adjustment, e.g., for use of the device 600 in batting cages having different heights. By way of example, through height adjustment, the same device 600 can be used in a 14-foot high batting cage and a 12-foot high batting cage.

The connector straps 644 may be formed from a nylon webbing material or the like, which can be stitched, riveted, threaded through, or otherwise affixed to the connectors 640. Further to height adjustment and leveling, the connector straps 644 may also or instead aid in one or more of the assembly, disassembly, setup, takedown, and transport of the device 600. The connector straps 644 may also or instead otherwise aid in an adjustability or maneuverability of the device 600. For example, the connector straps 644 may be secured through, or disposed adjacent to, one or more holes 646 (e.g., grommeted holes) that allow for adjustment of the device 600, e.g., by loosening or tightening the connector straps 644 using a cam buckle or the like (see, e.g., FIG. 8). Thus, as discussed herein, the connector straps 644 may be threaded through the holes 646 over a length of the connectors 640 as discussed herein. In this manner, the connector straps 644 may include a cam buckle or the like, e.g., a spring-loaded cam buckle for adjustment of the connector straps 644 (see, e.g., FIG. 8) in a drawstring-like manner or similar. Adjustment of the connector straps 644 may also or instead be mechanically or electrically actuated.

The device 600 may further include a stabilizer 690. The stabilizer 690 may assist in straightening, aligning, configuring, or otherwise providing a desired shape for one or more of the device 600 as a whole, the top net 610, the bottom net 620, and the connectors 640. For example, in the figure, the stabilizer 690 is shown disposed within a border of the bottom net 620. However, the stabilizer 690 may also or instead be disposed on or within other portions of the device 600. In certain implementations, the stabilizer 690 may include a rod or a series of rods that cooperate with one another (e.g., couple with one another)—e.g., interconnecting rods made of fiberglass reinforced plastic or the like. In this manner, in certain implementations, the stabilizer 690 may be set up (e.g., rods may be connected with one another to achieve a desired length) and slid within a pocket 692 or the like on the device 600, which may be disposed within a border of one or more of the top net 610 and the bottom net 620. To this end, the device 600 may further include a cover 694 that can substantially close or seal the pocket 692. The cover 694 may be securable or closable using a fastener 696, such as hook and loop, a snap, a button, a latch, an adhesive, or the like.

Because the stabilizer 690 may include a substantially hard or rigid material, when disposed within a pocket 692 or the like of the device 600, if the device 600 is struck by a ball being hit by a batter, the device 100 may be prone to deterioration near the location of the stabilizer 690. Thus, a protector 698 (e.g., a protective cover or a material used for reinforcement) may be disposed on one or more of the front or back side of the device 600 in the general location of the stabilizer 690 (e.g., the pocket 692). The protector 698 may simply include a nylon webbing material or other reinforcing material.

FIG. 7 shows a view through Section A-A of FIG. 6, in accordance with a representative embodiment. The stabilizer 690 in the form of a rod can be clearly shown in this figure, e.g., disposed within a pocket 692 or the like that is reinforced on at least one side with a protector 698.

FIG. 8 shows a rear view of a device for training a batter, in accordance with a representative embodiment. The device 600 shown in FIG. 8 may be the same as that shown in FIG. 6 described above. The device 600 may thus include connectors 640 having one or more connector straps 644 disposed thereon or therethrough. As discussed above, the connector straps 644 may be threaded through one or more holes 646 (e.g., grommeted holes) that allow for adjustment of the device 600, e.g., by loosening or tightening the connector straps 644 using a connector strap adjuster 848, such as a cam buckle (e.g., a spring-loaded cam buckle) or the like. In this manner, in an aspect where the connector strap adjuster 848 includes a cam buckle, the connectors 640 may be adjusted by moving an end 849 of a connector strap 644 relative to the cam buckle, e.g., for loosening or tightening the connector strap 644 relative to the connector 640 through which it is disposed.

The above systems, devices, methods, processes, and the like may be realized in hardware, software, or any combination of these suitable for a particular application. The hardware may include a general-purpose computer and/or dedicated computing device. This includes realization in one or more microprocessors, microcontrollers, embedded microcontrollers, programmable digital signal processors or other programmable devices or processing circuitry, along with internal and/or external memory. This may also, or instead, include one or more application specific integrated circuits, programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic components, or any other device or devices that may be configured to process electronic signals. It will further be appreciated that a realization of the processes or devices described above may include computer-executable code created using a structured programming language such as C, an object oriented programming language such as C++, or any other high-level or low-level programming language (including assembly languages, hardware description languages, and database programming languages and technologies) that may be stored, compiled or interpreted to run on one of the above devices, as well as heterogeneous combinations of processors, processor architectures, or combinations of different hardware and software. In another aspect, the methods may be embodied in systems that perform the steps thereof, and may be distributed across devices in a number of ways. At the same time, processing may be distributed across devices such as the various systems described above, or all of the functionality may be integrated into a dedicated, standalone device or other hardware. In another aspect, means for performing the steps associated with the processes described above may include any of the hardware and/or software described above. All such permutations and combinations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

Embodiments disclosed herein may include computer program products comprising computer-executable code or computer-usable code that, when executing on one or more computing devices, performs any and/or all of the steps thereof. The code may be stored in a non-transitory fashion in a computer memory, which may be a memory from which the program executes (such as random-access memory associated with a processor), or a storage device such as a disk drive, flash memory or any other optical, electromagnetic, magnetic, infrared or other device or combination of devices. In another aspect, any of the systems and methods described above may be embodied in any suitable transmission or propagation medium carrying computer-executable code and/or any inputs or outputs from same.

The foregoing description, for purpose of explanation, has been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, the illustrative discussions above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” “include,” “including,” “has,” “having,” and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in a sense of “including, but not limited to.” For example, an element preceded by “comprises . . . a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element. Additionally, the words “herein,” “hereunder,” “above,” “below,” and words of similar import refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of this application.

Reference throughout this document to “one embodiment,” “certain embodiments,” “an embodiment,” “implementation(s),” “aspect(s),” or similar terms means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosed devices, systems, and methods. Thus, the appearances of such phrases or in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments without limitation.

It will be appreciated that the devices, systems, and methods described above are set forth by way of example and not of limitation. Absent an explicit indication to the contrary, the disclosed steps may be modified, supplemented, omitted, and/or re-ordered without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Numerous variations, additions, omissions, and other modifications will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. In addition, the order or presentation of method steps in the description and drawings above is not intended to require this order of performing the recited steps unless a particular order is expressly required or otherwise clear from the context.

The method steps of the implementations described herein are intended to include any suitable method of causing such method steps to be performed, consistent with the patentability of the following claims, unless a different meaning is expressly provided or otherwise clear from the context. So, for example performing the step of X includes any suitable method for causing another party such as a remote user, a remote processing resource (e.g., a server or cloud computer) or a machine to perform the step of X. Similarly, performing steps X, Y and Z may include any method of directing or controlling any combination of such other individuals or resources to perform steps X, Y and Z to obtain the benefit of such steps. Thus, method steps of the implementations described herein are intended to include any suitable method of causing one or more other parties or entities to perform the steps, consistent with the patentability of the following claims, unless a different meaning is expressly provided or otherwise clear from the context. Such parties or entities need not be under the direction or control of any other party or entity, and need not be located within a particular jurisdiction.

It should further be appreciated that the methods above are provided by way of example. Absent an explicit indication to the contrary, the disclosed steps may be modified, supplemented, omitted, and/or re-ordered without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

It will be appreciated that the methods and systems described above are set forth by way of example and not of limitation. Numerous variations, additions, omissions, and other modifications will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. In addition, the order or presentation of method steps in the description and drawings above is not intended to require this order of performing the recited steps unless a particular order is expressly required or otherwise clear from the context. Thus, while particular embodiments have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure and are intended to form a part of the invention as defined by the following claims, which are to be interpreted in the broadest sense allowable by law.

Claims

1. A device for training a batter, comprising:

a top net structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the top net;

a bottom net structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the bottom net; and

one or more mechanical couples structurally configured to place the device in front of a batter such that the top net is positioned over the bottom net with a void defined between the top net and the bottom net, wherein, when the device is placed in front of a batter, the top net impedes movement of balls hit by the batter above a first predetermined launch angle, the bottom net impedes movement of balls hit by the batter below a second predetermined launch angle, and the void allows for passage of balls hit by the batter below the first predetermined launch angle and above the second predetermined launch angle.

2. The device of claim 1, further comprising one or more connectors coupling the top net with the bottom net.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the one or more mechanical couples are structurally configured for hanging the device in front of the batter.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein a weight of the bottom net maintains a predetermined shape of the device when the device is hung in front of the batter.

5. The device of claim 3, wherein the one or more mechanical couples include at least one of an aperture, a sleeve, a tether, a tie, and a strap.

6. The device of claim 3, wherein the one or more mechanical couples are structurally configured to couple the device to at least a portion of a batting cage.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the one or more mechanical couples engage with a wire or netting of the batting cage.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the one or more mechanical couples form a structural frame for holding the top net and the bottom net in front of the batter.

9. The device of claim 1, further comprising a structural frame for engaging with the one or more mechanical couples, the structural frame configured for holding the top net and the bottom net in front of the batter.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the first predetermined launch angle is about 33 degrees.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the second predetermined launch angle is about 11 degrees.

12. A device for training a batter, comprising:

a top net including a front surface having a substantially rectangular shape including a left edge, a right edge, a top edge, and a bottom edge, wherein the left edge and the right edge define a height of the top net, wherein the top edge and the bottom edge define a width of the top net, and wherein the front surface of the top net is made from a material selected to impede movement of a ball that contacts the front surface of the top net;

a bottom net including a front surface having a substantially rectangular shape including a left edge, a right edge, a top edge, and a bottom edge, wherein the left edge and the right edge define a height of the bottom net, wherein the top edge and the bottom edge define a width of the bottom net, and wherein the front surface of the bottom net is made from a material selected to impede movement of a ball that contacts the front surface of the bottom net;

a first connector coupling the top net with the bottom net, the first connector extending between the bottom edge of the top net and the top edge of the bottom net, and the first connector substantially disposed along the left edge of the top net and the left edge of the bottom net;

a second connector coupling the top net with the bottom net, the second connector extending between the bottom edge of the top net and the top edge of the bottom net, and the second connector substantially disposed along the right edge of the top net and the right edge of the bottom net; and

one or more mechanical couples disposed on the top net, the one or more mechanical couples structurally configured for placing the device in front of a batter such that the front surface of the top net impedes movement of balls hit by the batter above a first predetermined launch angle, the front surface of the bottom net impedes movement of balls hit by the batter below a second predetermined launch angle, and a void defined between the top net and the bottom net allows passage of balls hit by the batter below the first predetermined launch angle and above the second predetermined launch angle.

13. The device of claim 12, further comprising a first adjustment mechanism structurally configured to adjust a position of one or more of the top net and the bottom net.

14. The device of claim 13, wherein the first adjustment mechanism is structurally configured to adjust one or more of the height of the top net and the height of the bottom net, wherein adjusting the height of the top net changes the first predetermined launch angle and adjusting the height of the bottom net changes the second predetermined launch angle.

15. The device of claim 12, further comprising a second adjustment mechanism structurally configured to adjust a distance of the device from the batter.

16. The device of claim 12, further comprising a third adjustment mechanism structurally configured to adjust a z-axis position of the entire device.

17. The device of claim 12, wherein a weight of the bottom net maintains a predetermined shape of the device.

18. The device of claim 12, wherein the device is sized and shaped such that, when the device is placed between 12 feet and 18 feet from the batter, the first predetermined launch angle is greater than or equal to about 33 degrees and the second predetermined launch angle is less than or equal to about 11 degrees.

19. The device of claim 12, wherein one or more of the material of the front surface of the top net and the material of the front surface of the bottom net includes a mesh, and wherein one or more of the left edge, the right edge, the top edge, and the bottom edge, of one or more of the top net and the bottom net, includes a brightly colored band of material.

20. A method for training a batter, comprising:

positioning a top net in front of a batter, the top net structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the top net;

positioning a bottom net in front of a batter, the bottom net structurally configured to impede movement of a ball that contacts the bottom net; and

aligning the top net and the bottom net to define a void between the top net and the bottom net, the top net positioned to impede movement of balls hit by the batter above a first predetermined launch angle, the bottom net positioned to impede movement of balls hit by the batter below a second predetermined launch angle, and the void positioned to allow for passage of balls hit by the batter below the first predetermined launch angle and above the second predetermined launch angle.