Having Game Element Combined With Or Convertible To Game Element Or Practice Or Training Device For Different Type Of Projectile Game Patents (Class 473/416)
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Patent number: 11691060Abstract: Disclosed herein is an adjustable net system that includes a net having a first net end and a second net end, a net mesh portion, a first net end sleeve, a second net end sleeve, an upper net tape extending along a top of the net mesh portion and a lower net tape extending along a bottom of the net mesh portion. The system further including a releasable first net clamp and releasable second net clamp secured to the second net end sleeve, wherein the releasable first net clamp is selectably engageable with the upper net tape and the releasable second net clamp is selectably engageable with the lower net tape, and wherein the net mesh portion is securable with the releasable first net clamp and releasable second net clamp.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2023Date of Patent: July 4, 2023Assignee: EastPoint Sports Ltd., LLCInventor: James P. Burns, III
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Patent number: 11694347Abstract: A plurality of tracking cameras is pointed towards a routine hovering area of an in-the-field sports participant who routinely hovers about that area. Spots within the hovering area are registered relative to a predetermined multi-dimensional coordinates reference frame (e.g., Xw, Yw, Zw, Tw) such that two-dimensional coordinates of 2D images captured by the tracking cameras can be converted to multi-dimensional coordinates of the reference frame. A body part recognizing unit recognizes 2D locations of a specific body part in the 2D captured images and a mapping unit maps them into the multi-dimensional coordinates of the reference frame. A multi-dimensional curve generator then generates a multi-dimensional motion curve describing motion of the body part based on the mapped coordinates (e.g., Xw, Yw, Zw, Tw). The generated multi-dimensional motion curve is used to discover cross correlations between play action motions of the in-the-field sports participant and real-world sports results.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2022Date of Patent: July 4, 2023Assignee: SPORTSMEDIA TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Mark Perry, Joshua Spivak, Ryan A. Zander, Graham Wei-Feng Goldbeck, James G. Painter
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Patent number: 11638854Abstract: Methods and systems for real-time generation of ball shot analytics are disclosed. The methods and systems perform steps for ball and posture detection, ball and posture flow generation, shot event identification and classification, and shot analytics generation based on identified shot events and shooter posture flow. Embodiments of the present invention use computer vision techniques to enable a resource-limited mobile device such as a smartphone to conduct the aforementioned steps. Also disclosed are benefits of the new methods, and alternative embodiments of implementation.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2019Date of Patent: May 2, 2023Assignee: NEX Team, Inc.Inventors: Qi Zhang, Wing Hung Chan, Keng Fai Lee, Wang Fai Ng
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Patent number: 11599011Abstract: A camera mounting system may include first and second self-standing post assemblies. The first post assembly may include a first post including a first tube extending between bottom and top ends of the first post, and a first base attached to the bottom end of the first post. The second post assembly may include a second post including a second tube extending between bottom and top ends of the second post, a second base attached to the bottom end of the second post, a tension device attached to the second post, and a cable configured to extend between the first and second posts and including a first end portion configured to removably attach to the first post assembly and a second end portion attached to the tension device. The tension device may be configured to adjust tension of the cable between the second post and the first post.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2021Date of Patent: March 7, 2023Inventor: Gerardo Antonio Andrade Russian
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Patent number: 11348256Abstract: A plurality of high speed tracking cameras is pointed towards a routine hovering area of an in-the-field sports participant who routinely hovers about that area. Spots within the hovering area are registered relative to a predetermined multi-dimensional coordinates reference frame (e.g., Xw, Yw, Zw, Tw) such that two-dimensional coordinates of 2D images captured by the high speed tracking cameras can be converted to multi-dimensional coordinates of the reference frame. A body part recognizing unit recognizes 2D locations of a specific body part in the 2D captured images and a mapping unit maps them into the multi-dimensional coordinates of the reference frame. A multi-dimensional curve generator then generates a multi-dimensional motion curve describing motion of the body part based on the mapped coordinates (e.g., Xw, Yw, Zw, Tw).Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2020Date of Patent: May 31, 2022Assignee: SPORTSMEDIA TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Mark Perry, Joshua Spivak, Ryan Zander, Graham Wei-Feng Goldbeck, James G. Painter
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Patent number: 11227150Abstract: Techniques where a computer or mobile device performs video analysis of a person performing a physical activity such as a basketball jump shot are described. The computer or mobile device performs video analysis to (1) determine a frame of the video data that depicts a body position of the person in a release phase of the basketball jump shot, (2) process pixels in the determined frame to determine data relating to a release point for the basketball jump shot, (3) process pixels in a plurality of the frames to determine whether the basketball jump shot resulted in the basketball going through a hoop as a made shot, and (4) repeat these operations for a plurality of basketball jump shots by the person to thereby track the made shots and the release point data for the plurality of basketball jump shots by the person.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2020Date of Patent: January 18, 2022Assignee: MO' MOTION VENTURESInventor: Maureen Holohan
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Patent number: 11207580Abstract: A ball game and method of playing a ball game. The ball game includes a spherical, air-filled ball, a first backboard mounted on a first support pole at a predetermined height above a first end of a playing court, the first backboard comprising a pair or first hoops mounted on the first backboard, the pair of first hoops being set apart a predetermined distance from one another, and being angled with respect to a horizontal plane defined by the playing court. The pair of first hoops have a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the spherical, air-filled ball.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2020Date of Patent: December 28, 2021Inventor: Richard Joseph Mynatt
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Patent number: 10981045Abstract: An illustrated view of an exemplary ball pod for holding and transporting balls, such as tennis balls, baseballs, etc. is presented. The ball pod is useful for allowing easy access to the balls and refreshments while playing or practicing a game. The ball pod is easy to transport the balls from one location to another location and is efficient in use and accessibility. Furthermore, the ball pod is useful for securely holding refreshments for the player in order to refresh or hydrate the player during the game or the practice. The ball pod may also hold other items such as various player's garments (warm-up tops, bottoms, etc.), towels, personal items (smart phones, keys, wallet), etc. The ball pod has further uses such as, but not limited to, poolside holding refreshments, personal items, towels, street clothes), bar-b-que (holding utensils, condiments, aprons, towels, items to be grilled etc.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2020Date of Patent: April 20, 2021Inventors: Rahul Anand, Rhiya Anand, Kieran Anand
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Patent number: 10762642Abstract: Methods and apparatus for determining a trajectory of a axisymmetric object in 3-D physical space using a digital camera which records 2-D image data are described. In particular, based upon i) a characteristic length of the axisymmetric object, ii) a physical position of the camera determined from sensors associated with the camera (e.g., accelerometers) and iii) captured 2-D digital images from the camera including a time at which each image is generated relative to one another, a position, a velocity vector and an acceleration vector can be determined in three dimensional physical space for axisymmetric object objects as a function of time. In one embodiment, the method and apparatus can be applied to determine the trajectories of objects in games which utilize axisymmetric object objects, such as basketball, baseball, bowling, golf, soccer, rugby or football.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2020Date of Patent: September 1, 2020Assignee: PILLAR VISION, Inc.Inventors: Alan W. Marty, John Carter
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Patent number: 10706566Abstract: A plurality of high speed tracking cameras is pointed towards a routine hovering area of an in-the-field sports participant who routinely hovers about that area. Spots within the hovering area are registered relative to a predetermined multi-dimensional coordinates reference frame (e.g., Xw, Yw, Zw, Tw) such that two-dimensional coordinates of 2D images captured by the high speed tracking cameras can be converted to multi-dimensional coordinates of the reference frame. A body part recognizing unit recognizes 2D locations of a specific body part in the 2D captured images and a mapping unit maps them into the multi-dimensional coordinates of the reference frame. A multi-dimensional curve generator then generates a multi-dimensional motion curve describing motion of the body part based on the mapped coordinates (e.g., Xw, Yw, Zw, Tw).Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2018Date of Patent: July 7, 2020Assignee: SPORTSMEDIA TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Mark Perry, Joshua Spivak, Ryan A. Zander, Graham Wei-Feng Goldbeck, James G. Painter
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Patent number: 10586454Abstract: System, methods, and other embodiments described herein relate to engaging a driver of a vehicle about driving behaviors. In one embodiment, a method includes computing predicted controls according to at least a defined skill level of the driver. The predicted controls indicate how to control the vehicle to maintain the vehicle along a driving path on a roadway. The method includes, in response to receiving manual control inputs from the driver, generating control feedback to the driver about the manual control inputs based, at least in part, on a difference between the manual control inputs and the predicted controls.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2017Date of Patent: March 10, 2020Assignees: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc., Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Heishiro Toyoda, Hiroto Hamada
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Patent number: 9533210Abstract: A convertible game system configured to be used by a player at home who wishes to practice skills from multiple sports on an apparatus that does not require extensive space requirements. The game system has a frame, with a hopper section and a mounting section, a ball return, and a rotational component. The rotational component is mounted to the frame at the mounting section by a locking bearing system. For use, a player unlocks the locking bearing system, rotates the rotational component to display the desired game face, then re-locks the locking bearing system before beginning game play. The rotational component can have as few as 3 faces, and as many as 8 faces.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2014Date of Patent: January 3, 2017Assignee: Sport Squad, Inc.Inventor: Richard Lee
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Publication number: 20150105186Abstract: Indoor activity games for contests of skill and amusement. A soft, foam ball or cube is suspended by a cord and can be wrapped around a releasable device or temporary pole secured within a doorway. The ball can be struck by the players using their hands or using soft, foam paddles, in order to wrap the cord and the ball around the pole. In one embodiment the game played can be tetherball, and opposing players, on opposite sides of the doorway, attempt to strike the ball and propel it around the pole until the cord is completely wrapped around the pole. In another embodiment tennis or volleyball can be played, and a net is suspended across the open doorway.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2013Publication date: April 16, 2015Inventor: Richard M. BLOCK
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Publication number: 20150057109Abstract: A ball net structure includes: a base; two tilted metallic pipes flanking the base and having front ends receiving two resilient rods, respectively, wherein the tilted metallic pipes are longer than the resilient rods, allowing the resilient rods to bend and achieve optimal curvature and produce the evenest and largest tensile force; a net body stretched by and between the resilient rods to keep being flat and tight; a plastic sheet edge-binder disposed at each of four edges of the net body; clamping elements for clamping first and second edges of the net body; two net-clamping shells for clamping the clamping elements, the plastic sheet edge-binder, and the first and second edges of the net body, wherein at least two nails are disposed on each of the net-clamping shells to fix the net-clamping shells in place, achieving uniform distribution of stress and extending the service life of the net body.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2013Publication date: February 26, 2015Inventor: Benjamin Chen
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Publication number: 20140221127Abstract: A multi-sport apparatus is provided including a handle portion and a head portion. The head portion includes a hingedly attached hinge portion moveable between a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration a longitudinal axis of the hinge portion extends parallel to a longitudinal axis of the head portion. In the second configuration the longitudinal axis of the hinge portion extends at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the head portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2014Publication date: August 7, 2014Applicant: AryaBall, LLCInventor: Babak FORUTANPOUR
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Publication number: 20140155197Abstract: One embodiment provides a foldable throwback device comprising a front frame, a base frame, and telescoping angle members. The front frame is adapted to secure a bounce-back surface and is foldable into at least three sections without removal of the bounce-back surface. The base frame is coupled to the front frame by hinge brackets that allow the base frame to fold substantially flat onto the front frame without significant disassembly. Each telescoping angle member extends from the base frame to the front frame, and is adjustable to allow angling the front frame relative to the base frame. Each telescoping angle member may include a rotation-limiting mechanism and a safety mechanism that prevents unintentional detachment.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2013Publication date: June 5, 2014Inventor: Brian Goldwitz
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Publication number: 20140121038Abstract: A system for delivering objects, such as soccer balls, the system including a delivery device and a methodology for training individuals that can be used with the delivery device, the delivery device including an accelerator that accepts, accelerates, and launches the balls with motion characteristics, and a control system having an electronic controller structured to store and execute a training program that includes ball service specifications and player service variables, ball speed and spin control inputs, and random selection of values within a range of values of the player service variables that include a starting position of the player relative to the device, a direction of motion of the player relative to the device, an identification of at least one location on the player's body to touch the ball, a time interval to wait before delivering the ball, and an action for the user to take with the ball.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2013Publication date: May 1, 2014Applicant: Seattle Sport Sciences, Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey H. Alger
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Patent number: 8702537Abstract: A sport team game that combines different ball games allowing the athlete to perform at different skill levels, depending on the ball sport team game. The sport team game includes a court having a first end, a second end, a first sideline, a second sideline, a midline passing through a middle point of the court and running from the first sideline to the second sideline and a central circle circumscribed about the center of the midline. Landing strips are located near the end of the court. Trap zones are located near each landing strip. Basket goals are located above each trap zone. Floor goals are located under the basket goals. The three-points line extends around each landing strip. The sport game is played under the rules of at least two different ball games.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2011Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Inventor: Anthony Michael Cerbo
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Patent number: 8690715Abstract: A lighting system, for use in combination with a basketball backboard device mounted on a pole, comprises a plurality of lighting devices positioned adjacent the basketball backboard device. The lighting devices comprise a housing, a connector, a first light source, a lens and a light filter, and a secondary light source. The lens focuses lines defined by the light filter. The first light source is positioned to project the lines on to an activity surface to define a foul lane for a basketball court. The connector connects the housing to the pole supporting the basketball backboard device. The secondary light source is positioned to simultaneously illuminate a backboard of the basketball backboard device while the first light source projects the lines through the lens and the light filter. The lines from the first light source combine together on the activity surface to define an area for a basketball game.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2011Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Inventor: Steven D. Vogt
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Patent number: 8475301Abstract: A multi-functional gaming assembly may include a portable free-standing first section capable of being selectively modified into a baseball batting game, a basketball shooting game, and a tether-ball swinging game assembly respectively. A portable free-standing second section may be removably connected to the portable free-standing first section in such a manner that the portable free-standing first and second sections may cooperate to selectively include a tennis playing game, a badminton playing game, and a volleyball playing game. A plurality of anchor stakes may be removably attached to the portable free-standing first and second sections respectively. The portable free-standing first section may include a mobile primary base which may include a wire frame preferably having a handle and a plurality of rings extending out from a perimeter of the wire frame. The portable free-standing second section may include a mobile auxiliary base spaced apart from the mobile primary base.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2010Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Inventor: Patrick B. Lane
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Publication number: 20130165275Abstract: A sport team game that combines different ball games allowing the athlete to perform at different skill levels, depending on the ball sport team game. The sport team game includes a court having a first end, a second end, a first sideline, a second sideline, a midline passing through a middle point of the court and running from the first sideline to the second sideline and a central circle circumscribed about the center of the midline. Landing strips are located near the end of the court. Trap zones are located near each landing strip. Basket goals are located above each trap zone. Floor goals are located under the basket goals. The three-points line extends around each landing strip. The sport game is played under the rules of at least two different ball games.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2011Publication date: June 27, 2013Inventor: Anthony Michael Cerbo
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Patent number: 8409036Abstract: A muscular memory training apparatus and method of the present invention is used for training basketball players to shoot a ball to a ring from fixed distances. The apparatus provides numerous advantages including improved training aid and method that teaches the players in a correct manner of making a shot with a basketball, develops muscular memory of the body joints and muscles for proper execution of a basketball shot and makes higher percentage of hitting the goal.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2012Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Inventors: Vladimir Khananayev, Grigory Khananayev, Roman Borochin, Marina Borochin
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Publication number: 20130023358Abstract: One example embodiment includes a method of playing a game. The method includes a first team obtaining possession of a ball, where the ball is approximately spherical in shape, and the first team attempting to advance the ball to a predetermined goal. The method also includes the first team being awarded points if the first team advances the ball beyond the predetermined goal and a second team obtaining possession of the ball if the first team fails to advance the ball sufficiently.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2011Publication date: January 24, 2013Inventor: Robert L. Abel, JR.
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Publication number: 20120329581Abstract: A basketball hockey game table is convertible between a basketball mode and an air hockey mode and includes an air hockey playing surface having a pair of opposed air hockey goals. The pair of opposed air hockey goals have goal openings. An air hockey base member is included with the basketball hockey game table, and the air hockey playing surface is mounted on the air hockey base member. At least one support leg supports the air hockey base member. A vertical support member is connected to the air hockey base member when the convertible game table is in basketball mode, and the vertical support member supports a top line when the convertible game table is in basketball mode.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2011Publication date: December 27, 2012Inventor: Samuel Chen
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Publication number: 20120231902Abstract: A game apparatus comprising a mount and a goal can be attached to basketball hoops and serve as a target. This allows a basketball court to be used for an entirely new game using said game apparatus and flying sport discs. The method of playing includes two teams of players, each attempting to score on one target while preventing the opposing team from scoring on a separate target. Players may move with, pass, and shoot the flying sport disc. Points are accumulated for goals scored when the flying sport disc is thrown through a target. The basketball court provides ready markings used for shots, throw-ins, and defining out of bounds in the present game method.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2012Publication date: September 13, 2012Inventor: Lawrence B. STOREY, III
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Publication number: 20120225739Abstract: A flying disc toy of a size to be held between a user's bent finger and thumb. Said flying disc toy to be projected through the air when the user rapidly extends the bent finger. The flying disc toy generally has a hollow cavity on the underside between a top wall joined at a joining edge to a descending wall. The flying disc toy may be combined with various accessories such as gloves, targets, and bats to play one or more games.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2012Publication date: September 6, 2012Inventors: Michael Cheshire, Thomas Aiezza
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Patent number: 8221270Abstract: A combination sporting practice assembly includes a stem, a first structure, a second structure, and a basketball hoop. The stem extends between first and second ends. The first and second structures are releasably engaged with the first and second ends of the stem, respectively. The basketball hoop is releasably engaged with at least one of the stem, the first structure, and the second structure. The combination sporting practice assembly is selectively reconfigurable between different configurations.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2010Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: The Step2 Company, LLCInventors: Frank C. Kraska, Jamie L. Nash, Daniel Hladky, Andrew J. Hauptner, Michael Feeney, Michael Carnahan, Shelby J. Buell
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Publication number: 20120157239Abstract: A ball sports practice device is disclosed having a forward facing ball capture enclosure and a rear facing rebound structure. The angle between the ball capture enclosure and the rebound structure may be adjusted to support the device to a plurality of use positions on a support surface. An optional support arm may be included to maintain or limit the angle between the capture enclosure and the rebound structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2010Publication date: June 21, 2012Inventor: Philip Elpers
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Patent number: 8172707Abstract: A net standard for attachment to basketball rims to which nets of games such as volleyball or badminton can be attached.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2010Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Inventor: Paul J. Cox
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Publication number: 20110201457Abstract: Sports stations are provided, a representative version of which includes multiple vertical and horizontal posts interconnected to define multiple sport regions, with the multiple sport regions being configured to permit simultaneous play of different sports. At least first and second of the multiple sport regions are displaced vertically with respect to each other, and at least a third of the multiple sport regions is displaced horizontally with respect to the first and the second of the multiple sport regions.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2011Publication date: August 18, 2011Applicant: 53, INC. D/B/A PLAYGROUND SPORTSInventor: Ken Cosper
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Patent number: 7955082Abstract: A portable basketball training device and method for creating visual distractions adjacent to an elevated transparent basketball backboard in the vicinity of the rim to facilitate increasing a player's concentration, focus, skill and accuracy in goal shooting. The device includes a housing mounted on the backboard that contains a motorized reciprocating member, and a plurality of movable vision distracters disposed on a back side of the backboard suspended from the reciprocating member having body portions extending downwardly from the housing in the vicinity of the rim which swing or bounce from side behind the backboard in the vicinity of the rim. This motion tends to distract the player's attention and cause them to lose their concentration on making the shot. However, over time, a player will learn to increase their concentration and focus to overcome this distraction, and thereby enhance their skill and accuracy in goal shooting.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2008Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Inventor: Andrew Loyall Gause
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Publication number: 20110124441Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus and methods for playing. A apparatus for playing comprises at least one tethered object and at least one free object, said tethered object comprises a tether and an object which securely connects to one end of said tether. A tethered object may have a handle. The apparatus may further include at least one free object supporter for supporting free objects. To play, put a said free object on a playing surface or on a free object supporter on a playing surface, hold the free end of the tether or the handle of a tethered striking device, and swing or vertically orbit the tethered object to strike the free object to make the free object move. The apparatus may further include at least one goal. One may play in the way of playing golf: strike a free object with a tethered object again and again until the free object targets a goal.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2010Publication date: May 26, 2011Inventor: Youjian Fang
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Patent number: 7828678Abstract: A sports goal assembly having a goal frame defining an upright goalmouth on a shared soccer/football playing field is provided. The goal frame includes a spaced-apart, opposed pair of elongate base rails that each extend rearward of the goalmouth and along and parallel to an underlying surface of the playing field to support the goal assembly on the playing field. An elongate base crossbar interconnects the base rails and extends transversely therebetween. Each of the elongate base rails includes a front section adjacent the goalmouth, a rear section remote from the goalmouth, and an intermediate section. The base crossbar is connected to, and extends from, the intermediate sections of the base rails, and the rear sections of the base rails include counterbalancing weights to stabilize the goal assembly.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2007Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: Kwik Goal Ltd.Inventor: Anthony Caruso
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Publication number: 20100099508Abstract: Game apparatus for playing a baseball-like and golf-like game to be played on a golf course or a sports field or yard with rules of play for golf courses and sports fields or yards. The game apparatus includes a unitary bat-putter that resembles a baseball bat but has a flat surface at at least one end of the bat-putter, to be used to putt a ball. The game apparatus for sports field or yard play includes a targets including flagsticks inserted through stackable above ground target bodies set in advance of play on a sports field or yard to create a course of play.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2008Publication date: April 22, 2010Inventor: Thomas Kent Wolf
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Patent number: 7658688Abstract: A unique playing field and method of playing extreme baseball, a game of traditional baseball modified by rules to allow two teams to play at the same time on the same field, is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2007Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Inventor: Phil Weidner
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Publication number: 20090227398Abstract: Methods are provided for at least two teams to play a game with a ball on a playing surface having a plurality of zones and at least two goals. Zones have distinct rules for handling passing, receiving, and shooting of a ball during a game. A goal provides two distinctly defined types of scoring zones through which to score the ball from within a peripheral line of the playing surface. One type of scoring zone is at least one open ring shaped opening, and the other is an arced rectangularly shaped opening. The ball may be scored through either of the scoring zones. Points are awarded differently for scoring in either of the two zones and for throwing or kicking the ball through the two zones. Ball comprises at least two panels having arms attached along a contiguous seam.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2009Publication date: September 10, 2009Applicant: Kronum, LLCInventor: William G. Gibson
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Publication number: 20080153633Abstract: A disc catching device for catching a thrown disc, having a canopy structure, a basket structure, an assembly coupled to the canopy structure and the basket structure, and a pole to which the canopy structure and the basket structure may be attached. The assembly may engage a thrown disc, and for some embodiments, may comprise chains. When the disc catching device is deployed in its upright position for the sport of disc golf, the assembly hangs from the canopy structure, and is coupled to a ring that surrounds the pole. The basket structure comprises a set of basket arms, and when the disc catching device is deployed upright, the ring hangs below the set of basket arms. For some embodiments, the canopy structure and the basket structure may be foldable, like an umbrella. For some embodiments, the basket arms may be basket support arms, where each basket support arm supports a basket arm. Other embodiments are described and claimed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2006Publication date: June 26, 2008Inventors: Joshua S. Orzech, Scott W. Keasey
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Publication number: 20080125253Abstract: A unique playing field and method of playing extreme baseball, a game of traditional baseball modified by rules to allow two teams to play at the same time on the same field, is disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2007Publication date: May 29, 2008Inventor: Phil Weidner
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Patent number: 7094164Abstract: A trajectory detection and feedback system is described. The system is capable of detecting one or more moving objects in free flight, analyzing a trajectory of each object and providing immediate feedback information to a human that has launched tile object into flight, and/or one or more observers in the area The feedback information may include one or more trajectory parameters that the human may use to evaluate their skill at sending the object along a desired trajectory. A non-intrusive machine vision system may be used to evaluate trajectory parameters for a basketball shot at a basketball hoop by a player. After the system has evaluated a plurality of shots by the player, the system may provide 1) a diagnosis of their shot consistency, 2) a prediction for improvement based upon improving their shot consistency and 3) a prescription of actions for improving their consistency.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2002Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Assignee: Pillar Vision CorporationInventors: Alan W. Marty, Ridge McGhee, Tom Edwards
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Publication number: 20040266562Abstract: A ball tossing apparatus includes a support frame and a plurality of launch devices fixed to the support frame and arranged in a two-dimensional array. The launch devices include cylinders having a spring fixed therein, with a ball carrier fixed to the spring. The balls are retained in a loaded position (springs compressed) and then upon activation of the launch devices are launched vertically into the air to the sports player. In another embodiment, the launch devices include a rotating lever which is acted on by a biasing member to launch the ball vertically from the cylinder. A method for launching the balls includes the steps of loading the balls into a two dimensional array, and then launching the balls according to a launch sequence. An electronic control system for use with the ball tossing apparatus includes a launch module for launching the loaded balls in the plurality of launch devices according to a launch sequence.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2004Publication date: December 30, 2004Inventors: Carl W. Gowan, Guillermo A. Garza
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Publication number: 20030220159Abstract: An enclosed play area comprises a front wall, a back wall, side walls, and a ceiling which define an enclosed area. The front, back, and side walls, and the ceiling are formed from intersecting frame members which define an area having a geometric shape. One or more activity stations are mounted to the frame members in the enclosure. Each activity station comprises at least one tub in which one or more hoops are mounted, the hoops being sized to allow a ball to be thrown through the hoops. The tub has a rim defining a mouth, wall surfaces extending rearwardly from the rim, and a back. The rim has a geometric shape corresponding to the geometric shape of the area defined by the frame members. The tub is mounted to the frame members such that the mouth of the tub does not protrude substantially into the play area. Preferably, the front, back, and side walls, and the ceiling are covered by a transparent or see-through material.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2002Publication date: November 27, 2003Inventors: Scott Hamons, Jonathan Brooks, Donald Cattoni, Keith Nagelski
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Publication number: 20030073518Abstract: A disclosed device provides a trajectory detection and feedback system. The system is capable of detecting one or more moving objects in free flight, analyzing a trajectory of each object and providing immediate feedback information to a human that has launched the object into flight, and/or one or more observers in the area. The feedback information may include one or more trajectory parameters that the human may use to evaluate their skill at sending the object along a desired trajectory. In a particular embodiment, a non-intrusive machine vision system that remotely detects trajectories of moving objects may be used to evaluate trajectory parameters for a basketball shot at a basketball hoop by a player. The feedback information, such as a trajectory entry angle into the basketball hoop and/or an entry velocity into the hoop for the shot, may be output to the player in an auditory format using a sound projection device.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2002Publication date: April 17, 2003Applicant: Pillar Vision CorporationInventors: Alan W. Marty, Ridge McGhee, Tom Edwards
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Publication number: 20030069092Abstract: A ball tossing apparatus includes a support frame and a plurality of launch devices fixed to the support frame and arranged in a two-dimensional array. The launch devices include cylinders having a spring fixed therein, with a ball carrier fixed to the spring. The balls are retained in a loaded position (springs compressed) and then upon activation of the launch devices are launched vertically into the air to the sports player. A method for launching the balls includes the steps of loading the balls into a two dimensional array, and then launching the balls according to a launch sequence. An electronic control system for use with the ball tossing apparatus includes a launch module for launching the loaded balls in the plurality of launch devices according to a launch sequence. The launch sequences can be randomly generated, programmed by the sports player, or retrieved from memory. The launch of the balls can also be controlled remotely.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2001Publication date: April 10, 2003Inventors: Carl W. Gowan, Guillermo A. Garza
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Patent number: 6220974Abstract: A ball kicking apparatus for (1) practicing kicking a soccer-type ball; (2) training to be a goal keeper to receive a ball; and (3) obtaining aerobic exercise, where a frame has two upstanding members for supporting a soccer-type ball by a first cord to be kicked and a second cord for controlling the path of the kicked ball. A netted bag for holding the soccer-type ball can be used and arms can connect the frame to a wall for positioning and storing on the wall.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 1999Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Inventor: Richard S. Moore
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Patent number: 6048280Abstract: A projectile having photoluminescent properties is exposed to light within a gun when propelled from the gun to excite the photoluminescent surface and provide a visual display by the propelled projectile. The projectile is illuminated by a flash lamp, such as a xenon flash lamp, having a high level ultraviolet light component and relatively low or non-existent red, orange and infrared components.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1997Date of Patent: April 11, 2000Assignee: Sierra Innotek, Inc.Inventors: Stephen L. Palmer, William R. Palmer
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Patent number: 5908360Abstract: A game is provided including a playing field. A pair of planar vertically oriented backboards are situated at opposite ends of the playing field with a plurality of apertures formed therein and a net mounted within each aperture. A ball is provided having a circular configuration and formed of an elastomeric material. The ball has a pair of flexible resilient wings mounted on diametrically opposed sides thereof. A plurality of game units include a racquet and a lacrosse stick.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 1997Date of Patent: June 1, 1999Inventor: Mario Guillont
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Patent number: 5865691Abstract: A combination of sports game apparatus including a plurality of U-blocks, a plurality of triangle blocks, a plurality of elongated tubes, a plurality of L-bars, a plurality of angle connectors, and a plurality of coupling tubes, and adapted to be alternatively arranged into a framework for a net assembly for badminton or tennis, a framework for a goal for soccer or hockey, or a framework for a back stop for basketball.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1998Date of Patent: February 2, 1999Inventor: Charlene Chen
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Patent number: 5662333Abstract: Electronic detection and location of missiles, such as darts, are disclosed in which either ambient electromagnetic noise or specifically transmitted electromagnetic impressed signals are altered by interference from the missile, and this change is detected to detect the missile and its location. The material of the target area into which the missile is embedded is electrically nonconductive.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 1996Date of Patent: September 2, 1997Assignee: Paramount Technologies, Inc.Inventor: John Allen
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Patent number: 5613922Abstract: A multipurpose athletic training apparatus including a trampoline, two stands for holding the trampoline, two fastening devices for fastening the trampoline to the stands, the fastening devices being adjustable to fix the trampoline between a horizontal position in which the trampoline is used as a table, and a tilted position in which the trampoline is used as a rebound apparatus for rebounding balls thrown against it, a handrail for fastening to the stands at the top, and two net posts for fastening to the stands for stretching a net for the game of badminton.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1995Date of Patent: March 25, 1997Inventor: Hua-Lu Hsiang
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Patent number: 5613676Abstract: A sporting net which can be utilized either as a hockey net or a basketball hoop. The apparatus includes a center post having a basketball hoop and its upper end. Furthermore, two linkages are pivotally secured at opposing locations at the intermediate extent of the center post. A hockey net is secured in between these two linkages. In order to facilitate storage of the sporting net, the linkages are pivotal between a first use orientation, wherein they extend laterally from the post then downwardly to abut a recipient surface and a second storage orientation wherein they are positioned generally next to the post.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 1996Date of Patent: March 25, 1997Inventor: Thomas M. Connolly