Tennis Training Device

Abstract

A device designed to improve the tennis skills of players by ensuring proper wrist alignment during the execution of forehand shots. The device is adaptable to various racket types and sizes, making it a versatile tool for players at all levels seeking to refine their stroke mechanics and accuracy.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to provisional application App. No. 63/577,155 filed Apr. 3, 2023, the contents are incorporated by references herein.

FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to the field of sports equipment and training aids. More specifically, it pertains to a device designed to improve the tennis skills of players by ensuring proper wrist alignment during the execution of forehand shots.

BACKGROUND

Current training aids for tennis players include a range of devices designed to improve specific aspects of their game, such as swing trainers, ball machines, and grip aids. However, many of these devices do not adequately address the critical aspect of wrist positioning during play. Some devices that do focus on wrist alignment often lack versatility, being incompatible with different racket sizes and types, or they may be cumbersome to use, hindering the natural movement and flow of the player's strokes.

Moreover, existing solutions tend to enforce wrist positioning either too rigidly, causing discomfort or even injury to the player, or too loosely, failing to correct improper form effectively. There is, therefore, a need for an innovative solution that not only guides the player's wrist into the correct alignment for both forehand shots but also does so in a manner that is comfortable, non-restrictive, and adaptable to various rackets.

SUMMARY

In light of the foregoing background, the following presents a simplified summary of the present disclosure to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure. It is not intended to identify key or critical elements of the disclosure, or to delineate the scope of the disclosure. The following summary merely presents some concepts of the disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description provided below.

In accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, a tennis training device improves the player's ability to correctly aim and execute forehand shots through ergonomic wrist alignment. This device addresses the limitations of current training aids by offering a solution that is adaptable, comfortable, and effective in promoting correct tennis stroke mechanics.

In accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, two primary components may include a clamp mechanism and a wrist plate portion. The clamp mechanism may be designed for universal attachment to any standard tennis racket, ensuring that the device can be used by a wide range of players regardless of their racket preference. This feature underscores the device versatility and user-friendly nature, making it an invaluable tool for players at various levels of the sport.

The wrist plate portion of the device is another innovative aspect, designed to support the player's wrist and gently place it into a form for anatomical prevention of arthritis and joint injuries. The plate is engineered to guide the wrist into the ergonomic alignment for executing forehand shots. The design of the wrist plate balances the need for correct positioning with the need for comfort, ensuring that the player's movement is not restricted and that the risk of injury is minimized. This balance is achieved through consideration of materials, ergonomics, and adjustability to accommodate different wrist sizes and preferences.

Aspects of the present disclosure promotes the development of muscle memory for correct wrist positioning, thereby enhancing the player's technique over time. By providing immediate tactile feedback on their wrist alignment, players can adjust their strokes in real-time, leading to quicker improvements in their game.

In accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, a tennis training device that offers an effective, comfortable, and adaptable solution for improving tennis skills. Its unique design not only assists players in achieving proper wrist alignment for forehand shots but also fosters a conducive learning environment for the development of superior stroke mechanics and overall performance enhancement.

Another aspect of the present disclosure falls within the category of athletic training devices that are intended to assist individuals in enhancing their technique and performance in the sport of tennis.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is that the device is adaptable to various racket types and sizes, making it a versatile tool for players at all levels seeking to refine their stroke mechanics and accuracy.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is that a clamp mechanism comprises a resilient locking feature that enables secure attachment and easy removal from the tennis racket handle.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is that a wrist plate is made from a flexible material that conforms to the user's wrist shape while maintaining the suitable alignment.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is that the adjustment mechanism is operable to adjust the fit of the wrist plate around the user's wrist, allowing for users of varying wrist sizes to use the device comfortably.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is that a feedback mechanism may be integrated within the wrist plate, designed to provide auditory, visual, or haptic feedback to the user when the correct wrist position is achieved and maintained.

Another aspect of the present disclosure provides that the device is constructed from materials resistant to wear and environmental conditions commonly encountered during tennis play, including but not limited to, sweat, ultraviolent light exposure, and temperature extremes.

In accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, a tennis training device may include a column having a clamp mechanism designed to enable a tennis racket handle to be removably attached thereto. A wrist plate may be hingedly connected to the column containing the clamp mechanism in which the wrist plate may be configured to receive and position a user wrist in a predetermined alignment at about 109.5 to 110.5 degrees angle relative to the column.

In accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, a tennis training device may include a column containing a clamp mechanism configured to be resiliently connected a tennis racket handle. A wrist plate may be pivotally attached to the column into a folded storage position and an ergonomic opened position responsive to a user input. The wrist plate may be adapted to receive and position a user wrist in a predetermined ergonomic alignment at about a 110 degree angle relative to the column when engaged in the ergonomic opened position.

In another aspect, an adjustment mechanism may be incorporated within the plate portion for varying the pressure exerted on the user's wrist by the wrist plate, wherein said pressure is adjustable to a level that is sufficient to maintain the user wrist in the predetermined alignment without causing discomfort or restricting natural movement excessively.

All publications and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of a training aid according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a view of the training aid depicting a clamp portion and a wrist plate portion in an ergonomic position according to certain aspects of the present disclosure

FIG. 3 is a perspective view from the top of the training aid according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a front facing view of the training aid according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a side view of the training aid in its folded position or stowage position forming a nested arrangement according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a side view of the training aid in its folded position according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the wrist plate in isolation according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the wrist plate/sleeve on which the wrist rests when attached to the racket according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is an elevational view of the human tennis player, racket and training aid in one operation according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 shows a schematic plan view of a hand anatomy including the metacarpus, phalanxes, and the distal phalanx of the hand, also including the distal phalanges up to the fingertips and to the bottom region of the thumb according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The features of the disclosure are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present disclosure will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the disclosure are utilized, and the accompanying drawings.

The present specification as well as various commercial and consumer products may provide a tennis training device 100 designed to assist players in improving their tennis forehand shots by ensuring proper wrist alignment. In one construction, the device 100 comprises a clamp mechanism 121 that attaches securely to a variety of tennis rackets handle cross sectional shapes thereby allowing for near universal compatibility. The device 100 includes a wrist plate 130 that the player's wrist fits into, which is engineered to guide the wrist into an ergonomic position for correctly aiming shots without imposing excessive pressure on the wrist.

This innovative approach ensures that the device 100 not only promotes correct form but also accommodates comfort and prevents injury to the player. The adjustability of the clamp 121 and the ergonomic design of the wrist plate 130 make this device 100 versatile and suitable for tennis players of all skill levels seeking to enhance their technique and performance. Through its unique combination of adaptability, user-friendliness, and effective training support, the training aid device offers a significant improvement over existing tennis training aids.

In discussing portions of the training aid device 100 and methods of the present disclosure, reference may be made to bones within the hand and wrist of a human body, such references are not intended to demarcate precise areas. Rather, they are intended to delineate general areas to aid in the following discussion.

Referring to FIG. 10, some elements of training aid device 100, depicted in FIGS. 1-9, pertains to anatomical features of the hand 400 including a phalanx region 410 and a palmar region 420 located between phalanx region 410 and the wrist 430 of a hand of the wearer. The phalanx region 410 includes forward phalanges 1a, 1c, 2a-c, 3a-c, 4a-c, 5a-c interconnected to metacarpal bones 1d, 2d, 3d, 4d, 5d. The phalanges and metacarpals bones are formed in five rows in which the medial side starts the first row across to the fifth row on the lateral side of the hand. The heads of the distal phalanges bones 1a, 2a, 3a, 4a, 5a have a generally bulbous structure including a hyponychial by a nail plate and finger pulp for providing a distal contact surface for gripping, etc. It should be recognized that the thumb structure is the first row, which includes two phalanges 1a, 1c and a first metacarpal bone 1d.

Still referring to FIG. 10, the palmar region 420 generally includes the palm formed by several interconnecting bones metacarpals 1d, 2d, 3d, 4d, and 5d. The wrist region 430 includes the carpals 6 and the joints connecting radius 7 and ulna 8 with carpals 6. One of ordinary skill in the art should recognize that hand anatomy also includes interconnecting muscles and other tissues, which are not shown for clarity. It should be recognized that these regions correspond to the typical anatomy of a human hand, which does not deviate significantly from the norm.

In one construction shown in FIGS. 1-10, the tennis training aid device 100 may comprise two main portions, a wrist plate 130 that supports a wrist position and a column 130 containing a winged clamp system 120 in which a tennis racket handle 300 attaches and is held by the user “A”. The column 120 is pivotally attached to the wrist plate 130 at a lower end by hinge portion 131 (see FIGS. 6 and 7).

As shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 9, a long column portion 120 with a clamp system 121 configured for racket attachment, attaches to the wrist plate portion 130 where the wrist of a human “A” rests in a suitable ergonomic position therein and the user may grab the racket handle 300 and the column 120 simultaneously. The column portion 120, which contains the clamp system 121 attaches to the racket handle 300 and allows the user to grip the racket 300 with as much contact as possible, while the wrist 420 rests in a position “alpha” angle of 110 degrees for a suitable ergonomic form on the plate portion 130 (See FIG. 9). In one construction, the angle of alignment (“alpha”) can be in a range 109.5 degrees to 110.5 degrees relative to the column 120 in the opened position. In a preferably construction, the angle of alignment (“alpha”) can be in 110 degrees relative to the column 120 in the opened position. Still referring to FIG. 9, it can be seen that the hand 400 grips the column 130 and racket handle 300 where in column 120 rests in the palmar region 420 securely gripped by the forward phalanges 1a, 1c, 2a-c, 3a-c, 4a-c, 5a-c and metacarpals 1d in an overlapping configuration.

The device 100 may include a feedback mechanism integrated within the wrist plate 130, designed to provide auditory, visual, or haptic feedback to the user when the suitable ergonomic wrist position is achieved and maintained. In particular, the haptic feedback is provided to the palmar region 420 and the forward phalanges 1a, 1c, 2a-c, 3a-c, 4a-c, 5a-c and metacarpals 1d transferred to the wrist 430 upon impact of the racket 300 with a tennis ball.

Referring to FIG. 9, the column portion 120 also contains a resilient clamp system 121 which attaches to the racket 300. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the plate portion 130 is made up of the plate on which the wrist 430 rests thereon, and a hinge portion 131 which allows the plate 130 to pivotally connect to the column portion 120 with clamp 121 that holds the racket 300. The plate mechanism 130 allows the wrist to be in an ergonomic position while holding the attached racket to create better shooting form and habits of the user.

FIG. 5 displays the training aid in its folded position or stowage position. In accordance with the present disclosure, the concaved shaped wrist plate 130 may be rotated counter-clockwise to fold into the convex curve of column 120 to be abutted together to create a compact option for storage and transport of the device 100 and form a nested arrangement. Referring to FIG. 8, the column 120 includes pegs 125 extending away therefrom which mates with the wrist hinge portion 131 holes on the wrist plate 130 to form a hinge system.

Referring to FIGS. 1-9, training aid device 100 may be constructed from materials resistant to wear and environmental conditions commonly encountered during tennis play, including but not limited to, human sweat, ultraviolent exposure, and temperature extremes. In one configuration, training aid device 100 can be provided in a number of different constructions of plastic materials. In one example, the plastic material may be a polypropylene plastic. The polypropylene plastic is made by combining propylene monomers. The training aid 100 may be of a molded construction, including injection molded or casted.

Referring to FIGS. 1-9, the present disclosure provides for a tennis training device 100 including a column containing a clamp system 121 designed to attach resiliently retain a tennis racket handle thereby ensuring compatibility with a variety of tennis racket cross-sectional sizes and styles. A wrist plate portion 130 is pivotally connected to the column 120 containing the clamp system 121 thereby configured to receive and position the user's wrist in a predetermined ergonomic alignment at about preferably 110 degrees angle relative to the column 120.

Referring FIG. 9, one or more adjustment straps 200 may be incorporated within the plate 130 for varying a pressure exerted on the user's wrist 430 by the wrist plate 130. The pressure may be adjustable to a level that is sufficient to maintain the user's wrist in the predetermined ergonomic alignment without causing discomfort or restricting natural movement excessively. The strap 200 may be adapted to engage wrist of a user “A” to securely hold the wrist 430 against the wrist plate 130. In one implementation, the straps 200 may be of a hook and loop construction, such as a patch of VELCRO that can one of nylon hook and loop system.

In operational use, the present disclosure provides a method for improving tennis skills of a player. The method includes attaching the tennis training device 100 to a tennis racket handle 300. Then a user's wrist is inserted into the wrist plate 130 of the tennis training device 100. Next, steps include adjusting the pressure exerted by the plate portion on the user's wrist via the adjustment straps 200 to achieve a predetermined wrist alignment without causing discomfort. The user may practice tennis strokes with the tennis racket while the tennis training device 100 maintains the user's wrist 430 in an ergonomic alignment for forehand shots. The operational method includes subsequently, removing the tennis training device 100 from the racket handle 300 and the user's wrist upon completion of a practice session.

The present disclosure provides a device that encourages suitable ergonomic wrist alignment without compromising the player's comfort or the versatility of use across different tennis rackets. The tennis training aid of the present disclosure addresses the limitations of existing devices by offering an adaptable, user-friendly solution focused on promoting correct wrist alignment and technique, thereby enhancing the player's overall performance and reducing the risk of injury.

Terms of degree such as “generally”, “substantially”, “about” and “approximately” as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. For example, these terms can be construed as including a deviation of at least +−0.5% of the modified term if this deviation would not negate the meaning of the word it modifies.

It should be noted the terms “including” and “comprising” should be interpreted as meaning “including, but not limited to”.

In this specification, “a” and “an” and similar phrases are to be interpreted as “at least one” and “one or more.” References to “the,” “said,” and similar phrases should be interpreted as “the at least one”, “said at least one”, etc. References to “an” embodiment in this disclosure are not necessarily to the same embodiment.

It is the applicant's intent that only claims that include the express language “means for” or “step for” be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112. Claims that do not expressly include the phrase “means for” or “step for” are not to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112.

Although the present technology has been described in detail for the purpose of illustration based on what is currently considered to be the most practical and preferred implementations, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the technology is not limited to the disclosed implementations, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that are within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it is to be understood that the present technology contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any implementation can be combined with one or more features of any other implementation.

Claims

1. A tennis training device, comprising:

a column being adapted to be gripped by a palmar region and forward phalanges and at least one overlapping metacarpal of a hand of a user, wherein the column includes a clamp mechanism configured to detachably attach to a tennis racket handle;

a wrist plate being pivotally attached to the column; the wrist plate being configured to receive and position a wrist region of the user in a predetermined ergonomic alignment at about 109.5 degrees to 110.5 degrees angle relative to the column; and

an adjustment strap incorporated with the wrist plate for varying a pressure exerted on the wrist region by the wrist plate, wherein said pressure is adjustable to a level that is sufficient to maintain the wrist region in said predetermined ergonomic alignment.

2. The tennis training device of claim 1, wherein the clamp mechanism comprises a resilient locking feature that enables secure attachment and easy removal of the tennis racket handle.

3. The tennis training device of claim 1, wherein the wrist plate is made from a flexible material that conforms to a wrist region shape while maintaining the predetermined ergonomic alignment.

4. The tennis training device of claim 1, wherein the adjustment strap is operable to adjust a fit of the wrist plate around the wrist region of the user.

5. The tennis training device of claim 1, further comprising a feedback mechanism with the wrist plate configured to provide haptic feedback to the user when an ergonomic wrist position is achieved and maintained.

6. The tennis training device of claim 1, wherein the column and the wrist plate are constructed from a thermoplastic material.

7. The tennis training device of claim 1, wherein the clamp mechanism and the column are of an injected molded construction.

8. The tennis training device of claim 1, wherein the adjustment strap further comprises a hook and loop system.

9. A tennis training device, comprising:

a column being adapted to be gripped by a palmar region and forward phalanges and at least one overlapping metacarpal of a hand of a user; the column containing a clamp mechanism configured to attach detachably to a tennis racket handle; and

a wrist plate being pivotally attached to the column in a nested arrangement and an ergonomic opened position responsive to a user input; the wrist plate being configured to receive and position a wrist region of a user in a predetermined ergonomic alignment at 110 degrees angle relative to the column when engaged in the ergonomic opened position.

10. The tennis training device of claim 9, wherein the clamp mechanism comprises a resilient locking feature that enables secure attachment and easy removal of the tennis racket handle.

11. The tennis training device of claim 9, wherein the wrist plate is made from a flexible plastic material that conforms to the wrist region shape while maintaining the predetermined ergonomic alignment.

12. The tennis training device of claim 9, further comprising an adjustment strap adapted to adjust a fit of the wrist plate around the wrist region of the user.

13. The tennis training device of claim 12, further comprising a feedback mechanism integrated with the wrist plate being configured to provide auditory, visual, or haptic feedback to the user when an ergonomic wrist position is achieved and maintained.

14. The tennis training device of claim 12, wherein the column and the wrist plate are constructed from a thermoplastic material.

15. The tennis training device of claim 12, wherein the adjustment strap further comprises a hook and loop system.

16. The tennis training device of claim 15, wherein the clamp mechanism and the column are of an injected molded unitary construction.

17. A method for improving tennis skills, the method comprising:

a. attaching a tennis training device to a tennis racket handle;

b. inserting a user's wrist into a wrist plate of the tennis training device; and

C. adjusting a pressure exerted by the wrist plate on the user's wrist via an adjustment mechanism to achieve a predetermined wrist alignment without causing discomfort.