ATTACHMENT SYSTEM, APPARATUS, AND METHOD FOR A BALL

An attachment device configured to be attached to a ball is disclosed. The attachment device has a base member, and a protrusion extending from the base member, the protrusion decreasing in thickness in a direction extending away from the base member. An elongated apex is formed at an end portion of the protrusion, which is distal from the base member, based on the protrusion decreasing in thickness. The base member includes an attachment surface formed at an opposite side of the base member from the protrusion, the attachment surface being curved.

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Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application No. 63/752,727 filed Feb. 1, 2025, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to an attachment system, apparatus, and method, and more particularly to an attachment system, apparatus, and method for a ball.

BACKGROUND

In sports involving a ball such as softball or baseball, players often struggle with perceiving and controlling spin of the game ball. For example, pitchers often have difficulty perceiving how the spin of the ball differs between different types of pitches, which negatively affects their gameplay. Also for example, pitchers often have difficulty learning how to properly grip a ball, including for example how to grip the ball differently for different types of pitches.

Patent publication number US 2014/0228157 to Johnston (the '157 reference) provides one attempt to indicate ball rotation. The '157 reference discloses a ball into which an elongated member is inserted, which as best understood provides a non-regulation ball including the insert to be used by players. See the '157 reference at paragraph [0059] and FIG. 4.

Athletic training tools such as the one disclosed in the '157 reference or similar tools do not provide balls that feel like actual game balls to players, which decrease their effectiveness. Players struggle with feeling how to spin balls such as softballs and baseballs, even after using devices such as those disclosed in the '157 reference that are not regulation balls. Similarly, other conventional training tools that are not regulation balls do not feel like an actual game ball (e.g., do not feel like a softball or baseball that is made of leather and stitches).

Accordingly, a need in the art exists for a tool or aid that helps players perceive ball spin and grip a sports ball, while also feeling like a regulation sports ball that is actually used in regulation games.

The exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method of the present disclosure are directed to overcoming one or more of the shortcomings set forth above and/or other deficiencies in existing technology.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

In one exemplary aspect, the present disclosure is directed to an attachment device configured to be attached to a ball. The attachment device includes a base member, and a protrusion extending from the base member, the protrusion decreasing in thickness in a direction extending away from the base member. An elongated apex is formed at an end portion of the protrusion, which is distal from the base member, based on the protrusion decreasing in thickness. The base member includes an attachment surface formed at an opposite side of the base member from the protrusion, the attachment surface being curved.

In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a method. The method includes providing an attachment device including a base member and a protrusion extending away from the base member, wherein the base member includes a curved attachment surface formed at an opposite side of the base member from the protrusion, and attaching the attachment device to a sports ball based on attaching the curved attachment surface to a spherical surface of the sports ball, a radius of curvature of the curved attachment surface corresponding to a radius of curvature of the sports ball. The protrusion is a fin-shaped protrusion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is another perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2A is another perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4A is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4B is a side view of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C is a perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4D is a front view of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 5A is a top view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5B is a side view of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6C is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6D is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6E is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6F is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6G is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6H is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6I is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7B is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7C is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7D is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7E is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7F is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7G is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7H is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8A is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8B is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8C is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8D is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8E is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8F is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C are perspective views of a use of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D are perspective views of a use of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary process of using at least some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

 DETAILED DESCRIPTION AND INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may provide an attachment that may be a visual and/or tactile aid (e.g., tool) for a ball. The exemplary disclosed attachment may provide a visual aid for seeing ball spin and a tactile aid for gripping the ball. For example, the exemplary disclosed attachment may attach to a ball such as a sports ball to assist the user as a visual aid for seeing a spin direction of the ball while also providing a tactile tool (e.g., physical touch) to assist the user in gripping and creating spin on the ball. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed attachment may be a fin-shaped protuberance for use as a visual and tactile aid for ball rotation. Also for example, the exemplary disclosed attachment may be used as a tool for gripping and throwing a sports ball (e.g., softball or baseball pitching grips and throws).

FIGS. 1 to 3 illustrate an exemplary disclosed attachment system such as a system 100 that may include an attachment device 105. Attachment device 105 may be configured to attach to a ball 110.

Ball 110 may be any suitable spherical body to which attachment device 105 may be attached. Ball 110 may be a sports ball for a sports game. Ball 110 may be a sports ball for a sports game in which the ball is gripped directly for throwing. For example, ball 110 may be a softball or a baseball. Ball 110 may be a regulation softball such as an 11″ softball or a 12″ softball, or may be a regulation baseball. Ball 110 may be a volleyball (e.g., regulation volleyball such as a size 4 or size 5 volleyball), a basketball (e.g., a regulation basketball such as a size 7, size 6, size 5, or size 4 basketball), a handball (e.g., a regulation handball), a water polo ball (e.g., a regulation water polo ball), or any other suitable type of ball (e.g., football, dodgeball, or any other suitable sports ball). Ball 110 may be any spherical member that may be thrown with a spin by a user. Ball 110 may be a sphere having a diameter D. Diameter D may be between about 2.5″ and about 10″. For example when ball 110 is a regulation softball, diameter D may be 3.5″ or 3.82″. In at least some exemplary embodiments, ball 110 may be a softball formed from a core (e.g., a core formed from cork, rubber, polyurethane, and/or any other suitable materials for a softball core) covered by an outer covering (e.g., formed from synthetic, leather, and/or any other suitable materials for a softball covering), with the outer covering being connected or stitched using thread (e.g., linen thread, cotton thread, or any other suitable connectors) and/or any other suitable material. For example, ball 110 may be a leather and lace-stitched softball or baseball.

Attachment device 105 may include a base member 115 and a protrusion 120. Base member 115 and protrusion 120 may be attached together or integrally formed as portions of a single member. Base member 115 and protrusion 120 may be attached together via snap-fit attachment, press-fit attachment, welding (e.g., plastic welding such as ultrasonic welding or hot air welding), adhesive, and/or any other suitable attachment technique. Base member 115 and protrusion 120 may be formed from substantially similar materials (e.g., the same material) or from different materials. Base member 115 and protrusion 120 may be formed from plastic, rubber, elastomer, silicone, wood, composite material, and/or any other suitable rigid or flexible material. Base member 115 and protrusion 120 may be formed from PLA (polylactic acid), ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), HDPE (high density polyethylene), nylon, LDPE (low density polyethylene), TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), and/or other suitable materials (e.g., plastic or thermoplastic materials). Base member 115 and protrusion 120 may be 3D printed or injection molded.

Base member 115 may include an attachment surface 125 that may be curved to correspond to a spherical surface 110a of ball 110. For example, attachment surface 125 may have a radius of curvature (e.g., in a length and/or a width direction) corresponding to a radius of curvature of spherical surface 110a. Attachment surface 125 and spherical surface 110a may thereby have a substantially same radius of curvature (e.g., in a single direction or in multiple directions, such as in a length and a width direction). An exemplary radius of curvature R of both attachment surface 125 and ball 110 is illustrated in FIG. 3. Attachment surface 125 may be formed on an opposite side of base member 115 from protrusion 120, with attachment surface 125 having a radius of curvature that may be a softball-shaped (e.g., or baseball-shaped or any other suitable sports ball shape) radius of curvature. For example, a radius of curvature (e.g., R) of attachment surface 125 (e.g., and of ball 110) may be between about 1.5″ and about 2″ (e.g., about 1.75″ or about 1.91″), or may be smaller or larger (e.g., between up to about 1″ and about 10″). A substantially entire surface of attachment surface 125 may thereby contact a portion of spherical surface 110a when attachment device 105 is attached to ball 110 for example as described below. Attachment surface 125 may thereby provide a curved base to attachment device 105 that may correspond to (e.g., match) a curve (e.g., radius of curvature of spherical surface 110a) of ball 110. Base member 115 may taper down in thickness from a center portion 115a to peripheral portions 115b. For example, a thickness of center portion 115a (e.g., extending along a length direction of base member 115 that supports protrusion 120) may be greater than thicknesses of peripheral portions 115b.

Protrusion 120 may taper down in thickness in a direction extending away from base member 115 (e.g., a direction Y as illustrated in FIG. 4B, and/or a direction parallel to direction Y). Protrusion 120 may taper down in thickness from an attachment portion 120a (e.g., that may be attached to or integrally formed with center portion 115a of base member 115) to an apex (e.g., an elongated apex such as an apex portion 120b). For example, a thickness of attachment portion 120a (e.g., extending along a length direction of protrusion 120 adjacent to center portion 115a of base member 115) may be greater than a thickness of apex portion 120b (e.g., that may terminate in an apex such as a rounded apex). Protrusion 120 may also decrease in length as it approaches apex portion 120b, thereby forming curved faces 130 and a crown 120c (e.g., of apex portion 120b). Crown 120c may thereby have a thickness that is smaller (e.g., significantly smaller) than a thickness of attachment portion 120a, as well as a length that is less than a length of center portion 115a (of base member 115) and attachment portion 120a. Protrusion 120 may thereby be formed to be a fin-shaped protrusion (e.g., have a fin shape). For example as described above, protrusion 120 may include a vertical protuberance or fin that extends from a length of base member 115 and tapers down toward a top portion (e.g., crown 120c) of protrusion 120 (e.g., forming curved faces 130). For example, in addition to decreasing in thickness in the direction extending away from base member 115, protrusion 120 may decrease in length in the direction extending away from base member 115 so as to form curved faces 130 that narrow in width in the direction extending away from base member 115. For example, protrusion 120 may extend from base member 115, protrusion 120 decreasing in thickness in a direction (e.g., direction Y) extending away from base member 115. For example, an apex (e.g., apex portion 120b) may be formed at an end portion of protrusion 120 that may be distal from base member 115 based on protrusion 120 decreasing in thickness. For example, apex portion 120b (e.g., crown 120c) may have a length that is less than a length of base member 115. Also for example, base member 115 may include attachment surface 125 formed on an opposite side of base member 115 from protrusion 120, attachment surface 125 being curved (e.g., with radius of curvature R) for example as described herein. For example, in addition to decreasing in thickness in the direction extending away from base member 115, protrusion 120 may decrease in length in the direction (e.g., direction Y) extending away from base member 115 so that protrusion 120 may be formed as a fin shape.

In at least some exemplary embodiments, attachment device 105 may be a fin-shaped device (e.g., a fin) that may serve as a tactile aid and a visual aid to users. As a tactile aid, attachment device 105 may be attached at a surface of ball 110 in any suitable location (e.g., place) or orientation to provide a guide to a user for gripping ball 110. For example, attachment device 105 may be used as a tactile guide for placing a user's fingers on ball 110 when gripping ball 110 for throwing. As a visual aid, attachment device 105 may allow the user throwing ball 110 to see how ball 110 spins after being released during throwing. For example, attachment device 105 may be used as a visual guide for a user for seeing a spin of ball 110 when ball 110 is thrown.

As illustrated in FIGS. 3, 4A, and 4B, attachment device 105 may have a length L extending in a length direction (e.g., in a direction in which or parallel to which center portion 115a, attachment portion 120a, and crown 120c extend as described above), a width W extending in a width direction (e.g., horizontally perpendicular to the length direction), and a height H extending in a height direction (e.g. vertically perpendicular to the length direction), as well as the exemplary disclosed curvature of attachment surface 125 as described above (e.g., radius of curvature R). Length L may be between about 0.5″ and about 5″, between about 1″ and about 3″, between about 1″ and about 2″ (e.g., between about 0.9″ and about 1.5″), or any other suitable length. Width W may be between about 0.25″ and about 4″, between about 0.5″ and about 2″, between about 0.5″ and about 1″ (e.g., about 0.7″), or any other suitable width (e.g., a width of protrusion 120 may be between about 1/3 and about 3/4 of a length of base member 115, for example about 1/2 or about 2/3 of the length or any other suitable proportion). Height H may be between about 0.5″ and about 4″, between about 0.5″ and about 3″, between about 0.5″ and about 1.5″ (e.g., about 0.7″ or about 0.9″, or between about ½ and about ⅔ or ¾ of length L), or any other suitable height. In at least some exemplary embodiments when ball 110 may be a 12″ softball, attachment device 105 may have length L of about 1.5″, 1.4″, or about 1″, width W of about 0.7″, and height H of about 0.7″ or 0.9″. Dimensions L, W, and H and the exemplary disclosed radius of curvature (e.g., radius of curvature R) of attachment device 105 may be decreased or increased based on a type of ball (e.g., of ball 110) and/or different experience and age levels of users for tactile and visual feedback.

Dimensions L, W, and H and the exemplary disclosed radius of curvature (e.g., radius of curvature R) of a given attachment device 105 may vary based on diameter D of ball 110 to which the given attachment device 105 is configured to be attached. For example, dimensions L, W, and H and the exemplary disclosed radius of curvature may be increased or decreased proportionally to an increase or decrease of diameter D of a given ball 110 to be used. Dimensions L, W, and H and the exemplary disclosed radius of curvature of attachment device 105 may be based on diameter D of ball 110 to which attachment device 105 is to be attached. Length L may be between about 15% and about 50%, between about 20% and about 45%, or between about 24% and about 42% (e.g., about 25% and about 41%) of diameter D. Width W may be between about 10% and about 40%, between about 10% and about 30%, or between about 15% and about 25% (e.g., between about 18% and about 20%) of diameter D. Height H may be between about 5% and about 40%, between about 10% and about 30%, or between about 15% and about 30% (e.g., about 18% and about 26%) of diameter D.

Attachment device 105 may be attached to ball 110 using any suitable technique. Attachment device 105 may be either removably attached to ball 110 or substantially permanently attached to ball 110. For example, an adhesive may attach attachment surface 125 to a desired portion of spherical surface 110a. The adhesive may be a polyurethane adhesive, a silicone adhesive, a polyimide adhesive, a rubber adhesive, an epoxy adhesive, an acrylic adhesive, and/or any other suitable adhesive material. Also for example, a double-sided tape (e.g., including acrylic, rubber, silicone, and/or any other desired type of adhesive) may attach attachment surface 125 to a desired portion of spherical surface 110a. The exemplary disclosed adhesives described above may be selected and used for removable attachment or substantially permanent attachment. Also for example, attachment device 105 may be attached to ball 110 via magnetic attachment (e.g., via magnetic components disposed in attachment device 105 and ball 110). Further for example and as illustrated in FIG. 2A, attachment device 105 (e.g., base member 115) may be attached to a band 135 (e.g., similarly to the exemplary attachment techniques described above), which may be wrapped around a perimeter or circumference of ball 110. Band 135 may be a flexible band formed from any suitable flexible or elastic material such as, for example, rubber, synthetic rubber, elastomeric material (e.g., rubber, neoprene, polyurethane, polybutadiene, and/or silicone), and/or any other suitable flexible or elastic material. Band 135 may be connected to both ends of base member 115 to form a loop configured to removably receive ball 110 for example as illustrated in FIG. 2A.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, and FIGS. 6A through 6I illustrate various further exemplary embodiments of the exemplary disclosed attachment device. For example as illustrated in the various exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 5A, 5B, and FIGS. 6A through 6I (e.g., illustrating attachment devices 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d, 105e, 105f, 105g, 105h, 105i, and 105j), the exemplary disclosed attachment device may have varying dimensions (e.g., varying exemplary disclosed length, width, height, and/or radius of curvature) based on a type of ball 110 to which the attachment device may be attached, diameter D, experience level (e.g., and/or age and/or any other attributes) of a user of system 100, a desired visualization for spin of ball 110, and/or any other suitable criteria.

The exemplary disclosed attachment device may be formed from the exemplary disclosed material having any desired color or multiple colors (e.g., or coated to have one or more colors). For example, a first side of protrusion 120 may have a first color, and a second side of protrusion 120 may have a second color. The exemplary disclosed color schemes may provide a desired visualization to a user who may be watching a spin of ball 110. For example, the color and/or color changes presented to a user as ball 110 spins may change depending on a specific spin of ball 110.

The exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may be used in any suitable application involving a sports ball. The exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may be used in any suitable application for any spherical object where controlling or visualizing a spin is desired. The exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may be used in any suitable application for providing a training aid or tool for a sports ball. For example, the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may be used in any suitable application involving a sports ball such as a softball or a baseball.

The exemplary disclosed attachment device (e.g., attachment device 105, 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d, 105e, 105f, 105g, 105h, 105i, and/or 105j) may be positioned relative to and attached to ball 110 in any suitable position for providing a visual and/or tactile tool for manipulating (e.g., gripping and throwing) ball 110. Although illustrative examples are provided for softball pitching, the exemplary disclosed attachment device can also be placed on another type of ball 110 in any suitable way for using that ball for example in a way that spins the ball (e.g., baseball, volleyball, basketball, handball, water polo ball, football, dodgeball, or any other suitable type of ball).

For softball pitching as one illustrative example, there are several ways to grip a ball for different types of pitches such as, for example, fastball two-seam grip, fastball four-seam grip, multiple changeup pitches, rise ball, drop ball, curveball, and screwball. The exemplary disclosed attachment device (e.g., attachment device 105, 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d, 105e, 105f, 105g, 105h, 105i, and/or 105j) may be attached at a suitable location (e.g., preferred placement) for a given user's preference and/or hand and finger size and/or any other desired criteria for example as described herein. For example after use of the exemplary disclosed system, a user may develop personal preferences for placement of the exemplary disclosed device (e.g., for certain uses, visualization, and/or comfort for gripping the ball for a given use such as a given type of pitch or throw). The exemplary disclosed attachment device may be attached at a suitable location to assist a user in feeling which of the user's fingers (e.g., one or more fingers) may create pressure to help produce a desired spin of ball 110. For example, finger placement for a desired pitch or throw may be aided by the tactile feedback of feeling the exemplary disclosed attachment device placed at a given location (e.g., at a given location for a given pitch). The exemplary disclosed attachment device may thereby aid with finger placement on ball 110.

For softball pitching as one illustrative example, FIGS. 7A through 7H illustrate exemplary locations of attachment of the exemplary disclosed attachment device (e.g., attachment device 105, 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d, 105e, 105f, 105g, 105h, 105i, or 105j) at spherical surface 110a relative to a seam 112 of ball 110. For example, attaching the attachment device to sports ball 110 may include positioning and/or orienting the attachment device relative to seam 112 of ball 110. For example, FIG. 7A illustrates an attachment of the exemplary attachment device perpendicular to an end portion of seam 112 for use in throwing a four-seam fastball or a four-seam rise ball. Also for example, FIG. 7B illustrates an attachment of the exemplary attachment device parallel to and closer to one end portion of seam 112 for use in throwing a drop curve or a changeup pitch. Also for example, FIG. 7C illustrates an attachment of the exemplary attachment device perpendicular to a middle portion of seam 112 for use in throwing a changeup pitch. Also for example, FIG. 7D illustrates an attachment of the exemplary attachment device parallel to and slightly angled and closer to one end portion of seam 112 for use in throwing a four-seam drop curve or a changeup pitch. Also for example, FIG. 7E illustrates an attachment of the exemplary attachment device perpendicular to and slightly closer to one end portion of seam 112 for use in throwing a four-seam drop ball. Also for example, FIG. 7F illustrates an attachment of the exemplary attachment device parallel to a middle portion of seam 112 for use in throwing a rise or changeup or two-seam fastball. Also for example, FIGS. 7G and 7H illustrate attachment of the exemplary attachment device parallel to an end portion of seam 112 for use in throwing a rise ball.

Further using softball pitching as one illustrative example, FIGS. 8A through 8F illustrate exemplary user grips of ball 110 to which the exemplary disclosed attachment device (e.g., attachment device 105, 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d, 105e, 105f, 105g, 105h, 105i, or 105j) is attached (e.g., how the exemplary disclosed attachment device may be used as a tactile aid). For example, FIG. 8A illustrates a user grip of ball 110 to which the exemplary disclosed attachment device is attached for a rise ball. Also for example, FIG. 8B illustrates a user grip of ball 110 to which the exemplary disclosed attachment device is attached for a drop curve or a changeup pitch. Also for example, FIG. 8C illustrates a user grip of ball 110 to which the exemplary disclosed attachment device is attached for a curveball or a screwball pitch. Also for example, FIG. 8D illustrates a user grip of ball 110 to which the exemplary disclosed attachment device is attached for a left hand pitcher's drop curve or changeup pitch. Also for example, FIG. 8E illustrates a user grip of ball 110 to which the exemplary disclosed attachment device is attached for a two-seam fastball or changeup pitch. Also for example, FIG. 8F illustrates a user grip of ball 110 to which the exemplary disclosed attachment device is attached for a curveball or drop ball pitch.

Further using softball pitching as one illustrative example, FIGS. 9A through 9C and FIGS. 10A through 10D illustrate how the exemplary disclosed attachment device (e.g., attachment device 105, 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d, 105e, 105f, 105g, 105h, 105i, or 105j) may be used as a visual aid including, for example, the visualization of ball spin. The exemplary disclosed attachment device may aid in visualizing the spin of ball 110 based on providing an attached object (e.g., shape) that provides a technique (e.g., an easy way) for a user (e.g., a person throwing the ball) to see the effect of that person's hand and/or pitching motion on the spin of ball 110. The shape of the exemplary disclosed attachment device (e.g., the unique shape of the fin) may make it easier for the user to perceive and see spin because the direction of spin may change an apparent size of the attachment device and a direction of the attachment device as it rotates around the ball. Also, because the attachment device (e.g., fin) may be attached to a single location (e.g., at one side) of ball 110, the attachment device may appear and disappear from view as ball 110 spins to provide additional feedback to the user on the direction and orientation of the spin. FIGS. 9A through 9C provide a first series of exemplary sequential snapshots (e.g., frames) showing a motion of ball 110 being thrown with a spin (e.g., in a pitch of a rise ball as an illustrative example), with the exemplary disclosed attachment device (e.g., attachment device 105, 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d, 105e, 105f, 105g, 105h, 105i, or 105j) rotating to provide a visual indication of the spin of ball 110. FIGS. 10A through 10D provide a second series of exemplary sequential snapshots (e.g., frames) showing the motion of ball 110 being thrown with a spin (e.g., in another pitch of a rise ball as an illustrative example).

FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary process of using the exemplary disclosed system and apparatus. Process 200 begins at step 205. At step 210, a user may prepare the exemplary disclosed attachment device (e.g., attachment device 105, 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d, 105e, 105f, 105g, 105h, 105i, or 105j) and ball 110 for attachment and use. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the user may prepare (e.g., clean) a portion of spherical surface 110a to which the attachment device is to be attached. For example, a user may clean the portion of spherical surface 110a and/or attachment surface 125 of the attachment device using alcohol wipes (e.g., or any other suitable cleaning product). At step 215, the user may attach the exemplary disclosed attachment device (e.g., attachment surface 125) to the prepared (e.g., clean) portion of spherical surface 110a. The user may use any suitable attachment technique such as, for example, the exemplary disclosed attachment techniques described above (e.g., adhesive, tape such as double-sided tape, magnetic attachment, and/or any other suitable attachment technique). The exemplary disclosed attachment device may be attached at any desired location of ball 110 such as, for example, as illustrated in FIGS. 7A through 7H. The exemplary disclosed attachment device may also be attached to ball 110 using band 135 as described above regarding FIG. 2A.

At step 220, one or more users may utilize system 100 including the exemplary disclosed attachment device (e.g., attachment device 105, 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d, 105e, 105f, 105g, 105h, 105i, or 105j) attached to ball 110. The exemplary disclosed attachment device may be used as a tactile aid to help a user grip (e.g., suitably or properly grip) ball 110 for example as described above regarding FIGS. 8A through 8F. The exemplary disclosed attachment device may also be used as a visual aid to help a user to visualize a spin of ball 110 for example as described above regarding FIGS. 9A through 9C and 10A through 10D.

At step 225, a user may determine whether or not a location (e.g., position) of the exemplary disclosed attachment device (e.g., attachment device 105, 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d, 105e, 105f, 105g, 105h, 105i, or 105j) should be changed (e.g., moved) relative to ball 110. If the position is to be changed, process 200 may return to step 215, and the user may detach the attachment device and reattach it to another location of spherical surface 110a similar to as described above at step 215. For example, attaching the attachment device to ball 110 may include attaching the attachment device at a first location of ball 110, throwing ball 110, detaching the attachment device from the first location of ball 110, and reattaching the attachment device at a second location of ball 110 that is different from the first location. Alternatively for example, the user may adjust the position of the attachment device via adjustment of band 135. In at least some exemplary embodiments in which the exemplary disclosed attachment device is permanently attached as described above (e.g., if attached by permanently adhesive glue), the attachment device may not be changed. As many iterations as desired of steps 215 through 225 may be repeated, with the attachment device being iteratively removably attached, detached, and reattached at desired locations.

If the position of the exemplary disclosed attachment device (e.g., attachment device 105, 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d, 105e, 105f, 105g, 105h, 105i, or 105j) is not to be changed, process 200 may proceed to step 230. At step 230, the user may determine whether use of system 100 is to be continued. If use of system 200 is to be continued, process 200 returns to step 220. As many iterations as desired of steps 220 through 230 may be repeated. If use of system 200 is not to be continued, process 200 ends at step 235.

The invention includes other illustrative embodiments (“Embodiments”) as follows.

    • Embodiment 1: An attachment device configured to be attached to a ball, comprising: a base member; and a protrusion extending from the base member, the protrusion decreasing in thickness in a direction extending away from the base member; wherein an elongated apex is formed at an end portion of the protrusion, which is distal from the base member, based on the protrusion decreasing in thickness; and wherein the base member includes an attachment surface formed at an opposite side of the base member from the protrusion, the attachment surface being curved.
    • Embodiment 2: The attachment device of Embodiment 1, wherein the attachment surface has a curvature that is the same as a curvature of the ball.
    • Embodiment 3: The attachment device of Embodiment 1, wherein in addition to decreasing in thickness in the direction extending away from the base member, the protrusion decreases in length in the direction extending away from the base member so as to form the protrusion as a fin shape.
    • Embodiment 4: The attachment device of Embodiment 1, wherein in addition to decreasing in thickness in the direction extending away from the base member, the protrusion decreases in length in the direction extending away from the base member so as to form curved faces that narrow in width in the direction extending away from the base member.
    • Embodiment 5: The attachment device of Embodiment 1, wherein the elongated apex has a length that is less than a length of the base member.
    • Embodiment 6: The attachment device of Embodiment 1, wherein the attachment surface is curved in both a length direction and a width direction of the base member, the length direction of the base member being parallel to the elongated apex.
    • Embodiment 7: The attachment device of Embodiment 1, further comprising adhesive or double-sided tape configured to be attached to the attachment surface.
    • Embodiment 8: The attachment device of Embodiment 1, further comprising a flexible band connected to both ends of the base member and forming a loop configured to removably receive the ball.
    • Embodiment 9: A method, comprising: providing an attachment device including a base member and a protrusion extending away from the base member, wherein the base member includes a curved attachment surface formed at an opposite side of the base member from the protrusion; and attaching the attachment device to a sports ball based on attaching the curved attachment surface to a spherical surface of the sports ball, a radius of curvature of the curved attachment surface corresponding to a radius of curvature of the sports ball; wherein the protrusion is a fin-shaped protrusion.
    • Embodiment 10: The method of Embodiment 9, further comprising using the attachment device as a tactile guide for placing a user's fingers on the sports ball when gripping the sports ball for throwing.
    • Embodiment 11: The method of Embodiment 9, further comprising using the attachment device as a visual guide for a user for seeing a spin of the sports ball when the sports ball is thrown.
    • Embodiment 12: The method of Embodiment 9, wherein attaching the attachment device to the sports ball includes positioning and orienting the attachment device relative to a seam of the sports ball that is a softball or a baseball.
    • Embodiment 13: The method of Embodiment 9, wherein attaching the attachment device to the sports ball includes attaching the attachment device at a first location of the sports ball, throwing the sports ball, detaching the attachment device from the first location of the sports ball, and reattaching the attachment device at a second location of the sports ball that is different from the first location.
    • Embodiment 14: A softball attachment system, comprising: an attachment device including a base member; and a protrusion extending from the base member, the protrusion decreasing in thickness in a direction extending away from the base member; wherein an elongated apex is formed at an end portion of the protrusion, which is distal from the base member, based on the protrusion decreasing in thickness; and wherein the base member includes a curved attachment surface formed at an opposite side of the base member from the protrusion, the curved attachment surface having a radius of curvature that is a softball-shaped radius of curvature.
    • Embodiment 15: The softball attachment system of Embodiment 14, wherein the radius of curvature of the curved attachment surface is between 1.5″ and 2″.
    • Embodiment 16: The softball attachment system of Embodiment 14, further comprising a softball.
    • Embodiment 17: The softball attachment system of Embodiment 14, wherein the softball has a diameter of 3.5″ or 3.82″.
    • Embodiment 18: The softball attachment system of Embodiment 16, wherein a length of the attachment device is between 20% and 45% of a diameter of the softball.
    • Embodiment 19: The softball attachment system of Embodiment 16, wherein a width of the attachment device is between 10% and 30% of a diameter of the softball.
    • Embodiment 20: The softball attachment system of Embodiment 16, wherein a height of the attachment device is between 15% and 30% of a diameter of the softball.

In at least some exemplary embodiments, the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may provide an efficient and effective system for helping users visualize a spin of a ball such as a sports ball. The exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may also provide an efficient and effective system for learning how to properly grip a ball, including for example how to grip the ball differently for different types of pitches in games such as softball and baseball (e.g., of for a sports ball for other sports games for example as described herein). The exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method may provide a training tool or aid that feels like a regulation ball actually used in regulation sports game play.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the exemplary disclosed system, apparatus, and method. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the exemplary disclosed apparatus, system, and method. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary, with a true scope being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. An attachment device configured to be attached to a ball, comprising:

a base member; and
a protrusion extending from the base member, the protrusion decreasing in thickness in a direction extending away from the base member;
wherein an elongated apex is formed at an end portion of the protrusion, which is distal from the base member, based on the protrusion decreasing in thickness; and
wherein the base member includes an attachment surface formed at an opposite side of the base member from the protrusion, the attachment surface being curved.

2. The attachment device of claim 1, wherein the attachment surface has a curvature that is the same as a curvature of the ball.

3. The attachment device of claim 1, wherein in addition to decreasing in thickness in the direction extending away from the base member, the protrusion decreases in length in the direction extending away from the base member so as to form the protrusion as a fin shape.

4. The attachment device of claim 1, wherein in addition to decreasing in thickness in the direction extending away from the base member, the protrusion decreases in length in the direction extending away from the base member so as to form curved faces that narrow in width in the direction extending away from the base member.

5. The attachment device of claim 1, wherein the elongated apex has a length that is less than a length of the base member.

6. The attachment device of claim 1, wherein the attachment surface is curved in both a length direction and a width direction of the base member, the length direction of the base member being parallel to the elongated apex.

7. The attachment device of claim 1, further comprising adhesive or double-sided tape configured to be attached to the attachment surface.

8. The attachment device of claim 1, further comprising a flexible band connected to both ends of the base member and forming a loop configured to removably receive the ball.

9. A method, comprising:

providing an attachment device including a base member and a protrusion extending away from the base member, wherein the base member includes a curved attachment surface formed at an opposite side of the base member from the protrusion; and
attaching the attachment device to a sports ball based on attaching the curved attachment surface to a spherical surface of the sports ball, a radius of curvature of the curved attachment surface corresponding to a radius of curvature of the sports ball;
wherein the protrusion is a fin-shaped protrusion.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising using the attachment device as a tactile guide for placing a user's fingers on the sports ball when gripping the sports ball for throwing.

11. The method of claim 9, further comprising using the attachment device as a visual guide for a user for seeing a spin of the sports ball when the sports ball is thrown.

12. The method of claim 9, wherein attaching the attachment device to the sports ball includes positioning and orienting the attachment device relative to a seam of the sports ball that is a softball or a baseball.

13. The method of claim 9, wherein attaching the attachment device to the sports ball includes attaching the attachment device at a first location of the sports ball, throwing the sports ball, detaching the attachment device from the first location of the sports ball, and reattaching the attachment device at a second location of the sports ball that is different from the first location.

14. A softball attachment system, comprising:

an attachment device including a base member; and a protrusion extending from the base member, the protrusion decreasing in thickness in a direction extending away from the base member;
wherein an elongated apex is formed at an end portion of the protrusion, which is distal from the base member, based on the protrusion decreasing in thickness; and
wherein the base member includes a curved attachment surface formed at an opposite side of the base member from the protrusion, the curved attachment surface having a radius of curvature that is a softball-shaped radius of curvature.

15. The softball attachment system of claim 14, wherein the radius of curvature of the curved attachment surface is between 1.5″ and 2″.

16. The softball attachment system of claim 14, further comprising a softball.

17. The softball attachment system of claim 16, wherein the softball has a diameter of 3.5″ or 3.82″.

18. The softball attachment system of claim 16, wherein a length of the attachment device is between 20% and 45% of a diameter of the softball.

19. The softball attachment system of claim 16, wherein a width of the attachment device is between 10% and 30% of a diameter of the softball.

20. The softball attachment system of claim 16, wherein a height of the attachment device is between 15% and 30% of a diameter of the softball.

Patent History
Publication number: 20260224958
Type: Application
Filed: May 14, 2025
Publication Date: Aug 6, 2026
Inventor: John Thomas Judkins, III (Suffolk, VA)
Application Number: 19/207,742
Classifications
International Classification: A63B 69/00 (20060101); A63B 102/18 (20150101);