Abstract: A method for training a user to swing a member at a moving target. The method comprises receiving in an area proximate the member a target object projected along a free space path toward the area. The method also comprises striking, by the user, the target object with the member. In the method, the target object comprises a target member having a majority of its length along the free space path.

Abstract: A sports videogame such as a baseball videogame allows a user to control the release time of a pitch in order to control the timing of a break on the pitched ball. Other implementations of a baseball videogame allow a user to put extra spin on a pitched ball to thereby create a greater break on the pitch or allow the user to play in a hero mode which enables the user to control a videogame character in a series of specific game play scenarios designed to allow the user to immediately control the videogame character to perform unique skills. Game play may also be customized by allowing the user to incorporate user-created images into screens of game play and/or allow the user to incorporate recorded audio messages into game play.

Abstract: A ball launching apparatus for batting practice having a ramp allowing an operator to propel a baseball or softball along the ramp such that it becomes airborne and may be batted by a batter. A plurality of the ramps may be connected together in a staggered fashion or used individually. Each of the ramps has two grooves, one within the other to accommodate a baseball or softball respectively.

Abstract: Embodiments constructed in accordance with the principles herein relate to an apparatus and method for teaching and practicing sliding techniques. The sliding apparatus includes a sliding element have a sliding surface and opposing surface, the sliding element opposing surface adapted to movably contact a substantially flat surface; and a target element having a first surface and second surface, the target element second surface coupled to the sliding element sliding surface and providing a target for teaching and practicing sliding techniques.

Abstract: A pitching screen which provides a support structure having an arcuate support element which defines the boundary of the pitching screen and about which a ball can be pitched toward a pitching target.

Abstract: This present invention is a baseball training device for practicing hitting, comprising a swing member supporting either a static and dynamic balanced arm member having a ball at one end or a ball holder member freely supporting a ball. The swing member is supported by a base member and is restored to its equilibrium position in hitting practice mode by gravity. The rotation of the static and dynamic balanced arm member and oscillation of the swing member aid in the dissipation of force imparted to the device in hitting practice mode, making the device stable and stationary, portable and lightweight.

Abstract: Disclosed is a training apparatus for underhand pitching, the apparatus including a support frame including at least one leg portion configured to support at least one bar portion, and at least one flap suspended from the at least one bar portion.

Abstract: A batting or ball practice cage has one or more frame members with a net attached over the frame. Frame members may be assembled having springs or elbows at the comer. A pitching machine may be aligned with the cage at one end.

Abstract: A rotating foot anchor comprises a base, a pivot pin, and a spring strap. The foot of a user is placed on the base and beneath the spring strap. The foot anchor provides smooth rotation of the user's foot during a follow-through of a golf swing. The pivot pin comprises a downward pointed protrusion which penetrates a ground surface to further secure the device. As the user swings a golf club, the pivot pin enables the foot anchor along with the user's foot to rotate and therefore relive stress applied to the player's knees and back.

Abstract: A training device to enhance hand-eye coordination includes an illumination device for determining the proper time for an individual to strike a ball and to collect practice information for later evaluation. The device allows an individual to practice hitting a ball with a racket or bat, providing an immediate indication whether the ball has been properly struck. Also, an individual is provided with a record of his/her performance reviewable by a professional. The device includes a ball affixed to a flexible support assembly, the support and the ball reciprocating or pivoting when the ball has been struck. The location of the ball is constantly monitored each time the ball is struck. The amount of force applied to the ball when struck by an individual or implement can also be determined. Information relating to the manner in which the ball has been struck is recorded and is analyzed in real time.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for increasing the visual performance of athletes. For example, a baseball hitter is taught to recognize the spin of a thrown baseball and thus become a better hitter. A hitter wears eye glasses having lenses which are tinted in a color which is complementary to the a baseball being all or partially tinted in a complementary color. For example, the hitter may wear green tinted lenses to make the red seams of the thrown baseball become much more apparent. Various complementary color schemes are disclosed. Several examples of specific practice for use of the method and apparatus are disclosed. Examples of sporting activities in which color recognition is useful include baseball, shooting, soccer, racquetball, handball, volleyball, tennis and others.

Abstract: A batting tee system includes a batting tee assembly that may be used with conventional balls or with the ball described as an embodiment of the present invention. Optionally, the batting tee assembly may be used with a netting system or target that provides feedback to a batter based on a trajectory of the ball after it has been struck by a bat and leaves the batting tee assembly. In one embodiment, the batting tee assembly includes a support base coupled to a swing arm, which in turn is coupled to an adjustable-height batting tee. A flexible cup may be coupled to the batting tee to eliminate or substantially reduce the bounce back or recoil felt by a batter when hitting off a batting tee. The batting tee system may be configured for both left and right handed batters and also placed in a portable or storable configuration.

Abstract: Balls are provided to train someone to throw with proper rotation. A marking is positioned on the ball to enhance viewing of rotation. The marking is in a contrasting color than the rest of the cover and covers at least a quarter of the outer surface of the ball. The stitches are colored to avoid interfering with the visual effect of the marking, such as having stitches with similar coloration to the non-marking portion of the ball. Balls with different amounts or designs of marking may be used to train in stages. For example, a kit of balls for different stages is provided. The balls of different stages require different rates of rotation to appear visually similar to each other when thrown properly.

Abstract: A batter training apparatus and method for training batters to attain optimal biomechanics for most effectively hitting a ball, with a proper rotation of a batter's hips and proper follow through with a batter's arms, wrists and shoulders. The training apparatus includes a belt worn over the hips that has a cable extending behind and between the hips. A tether connects the belt to a support post, preventing forward motion of the batter's body, but allowing and conditioning the hips to rotate. The support post sits at the rear of a platform that is about the size of a batter's box. An elastic cord connected to a forward arm and attached to the front of the platform, pulls a batter's wrists, arms and shoulders forward during proper follow through, conditioning the batter to swing the bat efficiently.

Abstract: A method of training a baseball pitcher includes instructing the pitcher to perform a group of throws in a kneeling position, instructing the pitcher to repeat the group of throws in a rocker position, and instructing the pitcher to repeat the group of throws in a run-and-gun position. Performing a group of throws includes performing a set of throws for each of a plurality of balls with different weights, wherein performing a set of throws includes throwing a first throw modality and throwing a second throw modality, and wherein the first throw modality includes holding the ball during the throw and the second throwing modality includes releasing the ball throughout the throw.

Abstract: A sports training device is worn by the trainee for developing skill and minimizing risk of injury in pitching, passing, swinging, kicking, and other such sports-related body movements. An illustrative embodiment includes an anchor member adapted for wear on the torso of a trainee, and elongate member coupled between the anchor member and a forearm or thigh of the trainee, the elongate member being resiliently bendable along its length, inelastic relative to its longitudinal axis, and freely movable relative to the anchor member upon movement of the trainee's arm or leg.

Abstract: A batting or ball practice cage has one or more frame members with a net attached over the frame. Frame members may be assembled having springs or elbows at the corner. A pitching machine may be aligned with the cage at one end.

Abstract: A pitching training device comprises a typical baseball with raised pitching training structure on top of the stitches on the seam. The pitching training structure is able to be an additional layer of stitches on top of the typical stitches of a baseball. The pitching training structure provides a finger rest area allowing a user to spin the baseball more easily at a breaking ball pitching release.

Abstract: A softball training device includes a plate assembly pivotally connected to a support member. The plate assembly includes a flat, circular balance plate and a downwardly protruding kick stand formed on its rear end. The support member includes an enlarged base and rectangular mounting bracket transversely disposed on the base, the balance plate directly teetering on the mounting bracket. In use, the training device can be used to train a hitter to maximize lower power drive. Specifically, the hitter centers her rear foot on the balance plate and positions her other foot in front of the device. The hitter then loads her weight rearward, the kick stand keeping the balance plate horizontal. The hitter finally transfers her weight forward through accelerated hip and torso rotation so that the balance plate pivots forward and strikes the base to create an audible signal. With hips and torso initiating the forward movement, the arms are similarly pulled forward so the bat travels through the hitting zone.

Abstract: Disclosed is a portable apparatus for batting practice which aids in the development and/or improvement of a batter's ability to strike a baseball/softball with a baseball/softball bat. The apparatus consists of ball-targets, affixed to a hub, that rotate about a horizontal axle. Suitably, the hub is defined by a strap and clamp assembly. The apparatus may be affixed to any vertical assembly, but will typically be affixed to a standard vertical assembly, commonly known as a batting tee. Once so affixed, the apparatus may be adjusted up or down along with the tee, to allow for batters of varying heights to use the apparatus. The batter strikes the target, with the selected implement, in this case a baseball/softball bat, causing the target to rotate around the horizontal axle, eventually returning a target once again to the upright and proper position, allowing for further training using said apparatus.

Abstract: A bunt training device includes a shield with opposite ends which is mounted to a baseball or softball bat using one or more straps. The device is mounted on the bat in a position which allows a batter to slide his or her top hand to the end of the device adjacent the barrel of the bat for bunting practice. The shield protects the batter's top hand from a pitched ball and thereby eliminates or reduces the fear a batter may have when bunting. The device may be formed as a separate shield to be mounted on a conventional bat, or the shield and bat can be formed as a single unit for bunting practice.

Abstract: A pitching movement training device includes a ball, a plurality of pegs selectively secured at predetermined locations about the surface of the ball, and at least one band secured between adjacent pegs. The ball has a seam and at least one of the pegs being positioned adjacent the seam. The ball allows one to teach athletes proper hand positioning upon a ball while throwing specific pitches. The method includes providing the plurality of pegs and the ball, securing the pegs to the ball at predetermined locations about the outer surface of the ball, positioning a user's fingers relative to the pegs; and instructing the user to throw a pitch with a specific hand motion.

Abstract: A fabric tunnel for baseball pitching practice with a simple “auto-catcher” is made of netting in one embodiment. At the target end a flap with indicia of accuracy of aim also constitutes a flap that provides an audible feedback when hit and also allows the thrown balls to be captured. Straps are used to hold the tunnel in position by attachment to poles supported by guy wires or the straps could be attached to fixed objects such as a chain-link fence.

Abstract: An embodiment herein includes a baseball having a cover and a core. The cover encapsulates the core and there at least four images on an exterior surface of the cover. At least four of the images do not substantially extend from one of the panels to another one of the panels. The ball may have a profile substantially similar to a conventional ball. A second embodiment of the ball is where the core is weighted in an asymmetric manner. A method of using an embodiment of the ball includes a player calling out a description of the image as the player fields the ball.

Abstract: A hitting training aid is provided, such as a mechanical tee for batting practice. The mechanical tee may present a ball to a batter at various heights, positions, speeds, and angles to simulate real game conditions. The mechanical tee may include a vertical stand with a variable position, retractable post that supports flexible tubing with a suction cup at the end to hold a ball in a suspended manner for striking. The mechanical tee may have a motor and vacuum pump configuration to provide suction, and may automatically feed balls to a batter. The vertical stand may additionally have an air compressor and an attachment for pneumatically tossing or propelling a ball upward for striking. The mechanical tee may move, or toss, a ball to variable and/or random placements within a three dimensional strike zone. A portable stand may have several telescopic pistons for lifting a ball at various placements.

Abstract: An adjustable position batting tee comprising a base, where the base rests upon the ground; a central tube rising vertically from the base; a rotatable collar that wraps around the central tube, where the rotatable collar twists around the central tube; a central tee extending vertically from the central tube, where the central tee enables a ball to rest upon a top portion; a side bar fastened to the rotatable collar, where the side bar extends horizontally from a side portion of the rotatable collar; and a lateral tee extending vertically from the side bar, wherein the lateral tee enables a ball to rest upon a top portion of the lateral tee.

Abstract: A pitching screen which provides a first pitching lane and a second pitching lane in a single pitching screen configuration to allow both left-handed pitchers and right-handed pitchers to pitch without repositioning the pitching screen.

Abstract: A pitching machine for pitching a ball to a batter positioned in a first batting location. The pitching machine including a frame, a drive assembly coupled to the frame, a pitching arm and a lead timing arm. The pitching arm is coupled to drive assembly and rotatable in a first direction about a first axis. The pitching arm includes a forward side configured to contact and project the ball during a portion of the rotation of the pitching arm about the first axis. The pitching arm is configured to project the ball at least a first ball release position with respect to the first axis. The lead timing arm includes a marker. The lead timing arm is coupled to the pitching arm such that the marker is visible to the batter positioned in the first batting location prior to the pitching arm reaching the first ball release position.

Abstract: A pitching movement training device includes a ball, a plurality of pegs selectively secured at predetermined locations about the surface of the ball, and at least one band secured between adjacent pegs. The ball has a seam and at least one of the pegs being positioned adjacent the seam. The ball allows one to teach athletes proper hand positioning upon a ball while throwing specific pitches. The method includes providing the plurality of pegs and the ball, securing the pegs to the ball at predetermined locations about the outer surface of the ball, positioning a user's fingers relative to the pegs; and instructing the user to throw a pitch with a specific hand motion.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus are described for determining parameters of a contact between bodies occurring within an activity. A digital camera directed towards a target area during the activity captures image frames including infra red image data. Structure for comparing image data for multiple temporally spaced frames with image data of a reference datum records any localized infra red emission appearing in at least one incident frame. The image data for at least one of the incident frames is analyzed to determine at least one parameter of the contact, and the image data for the incident frame is recorded. Visual display means displays the incident frames including the image data in the IR spectrum to enable visual inspection of the activity in the target area at the time of the incident frame and that gave rise to the contact producing the infra red emission.

Abstract: The present invention provides for the first time a hitting device having a plural ended pedestal. The plural ended pedestal includes at least one end having a pedestal for supporting objects and at least one end having a smaller pedestal for supporting smaller objects.

Abstract: The present invention is a system for pitching of baseball or softball to enjoy virtual game, the system includes a pitching room having a mound from which a player will throw a ball and a home plate by which the thrown ball will be determined depending upon its trajectory; a video camera for photographing the pitching room along the longitudinal direction thereof from the back of the mound by using a two-dimensional image sensor included therein; a stripe pattern arranged at a predetermined area including the home plate on the floor, wherein the stripe pattern indicates different positions in the longitudinal direction of the area; a mirror obliquely mounted on the ceiling right above the home plate for reflecting the optical image of the home plate and stripe pattern toward the video camera; and a computer for detecting three-dimensional position of the thrown ball based on the image signal output from the video camera photographing both of the thrown ball and the optical image of the stripe pattern above w

Abstract: A reciprocating ball sports trainer for improving an individual's ability to properly strike a ball. A ball is affixed to the top of flexible supports, allowing the ball to move in an arc once it is struck. A timing light is provided for illuminating a lens to indicate the proper time for the user to strike the ball. Various sensors are included for determining whether the ball was correctly struck. A number of parameters relating to the manner in which the ball was struck are sensed and recorded.

Abstract: The present invention provides for the first time a barrier support structure comprising at least one removable closed-loop resilient coilable frame having a perimeter. The removable closed-loop coilable frame comprises at least one connection member. A support base comprises at least one attachment member. The attachment member removably attaches to the connection member of the removable coilable frame. The attachment member maintains a predetermined angle between the removable coilable frame and the support base.

Abstract: A system for training a player of a sport that utilizes a playing ball includes at least two training balls of substantially equal size but unequal mass. Optionally the training balls are lighter and smaller than a playing ball. The method of the present invention includes providing a system of at least two training balls as described. The training balls are thrown to a player using the same arm speed with each throw to train the player with pitches of different flight characteristics arising from the same throwing motion and arm speed.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a baseball pitcher training apparatus for training a pitcher in controlling his lower and upper body portions in the movement sequence of the human body associated with throwing a baseball during the pitch preparation phase as well as the delivery and follow-through phase to conserve stress or strain in the arm and leg muscles. The apparatus has a frame comprising two vertical post assemblies connected at the top by a horizontal cross beam assembly. Light bag weights are suspended from the cross beam assembly and wires tensioned by circular pulley wheels are attached to the vertical post members. The pitcher learns his body mechanics from pitching with the said wires attached to his body and following a pitching line indicated by the light bag weights and gauging his position by calibration marks on the pitching mound.

Abstract: A training device guides the throwing arm of a person in a ball throwing movement in a forward throwing direction. The training device comprises a base arranged to be supported on the ground, an upright support member extending upwardly from the base and a guide member on the upright support member which has a generally concave inner surface extending upwardly and forwardly from a generally vertical starting end to a generally horizontal releasing end. The user grasps a ball in the hand of their throwing arm and displaces the ball alongside the guide member from the starting end to the releasing end in a ball throwing movement to throw the ball in the forward throwing direction of the training device.

Abstract: There is described an apparatus for a sports game involving movement of a projectile, the apparatus comprising impact sensors for detecting impacts by a player of the sport game or the projectile, the impact sensors being coupled to a processor operable to derive characteristic data for a projectile movement from impacts detected by two or more of the player impact sensors. By monitoring impacts, rather than the movement of the projectile through the air, the apparatus may be both inexpensive and easy to install.

Abstract: The Batting Machine is a device used during baseball practice to help players develop a level and more powerful swing. It is composed of a batting post with an attached target pad which is attached to a base frame by a pivot rod and a pneumatic retracting mechanism. The frame works to keep balance and control of the moving parts. The batting post operates as you swing and hit the pad connected to it. Once the batting post is hit it will move back and downward between the frames legs where a rubber band strap restrains it from going any further. Then the pneumatic retracting mechanism connecting the frame and the batting post returns the batting post to the starting position where it is ready to be struck again.

Abstract: The present invention includes programs, devices and methods for a programmable ball throwing machine that is able to eject balls to preset, programmed or manually-selected positions with programmable projection and travel characteristics. The present invention includes a computer implemented method for controlling the parameters of a ball flight and trajectory in three dimensions including one or more parameters to identify a flight and trajectory of a ball in three dimensions for one or more player positions and a processor to control one or more motors in response to the one or more parameters.

Abstract: Balls are provided to train someone to throw with proper rotation. A marking is positioned on the ball to enhance viewing of rotation. The marking is in a contrasting color than the rest of the cover and covers at least a quarter of the outer surface of the ball. The stitches are colored to avoid interfering with the visual effect of the marking, such as having stitches with similar coloration to the non-marking portion of the ball. Balls with different amounts or designs of marking may be used to train in stages. For example, a kit of balls for different stages is provided. The balls of different stages require different rates of rotation to appear visually similar to each other when thrown properly.

Abstract: A batting swing improvement device is provided which includes a line, a bat, and the bat having at least one slot spanning the line. In addition, balls may be strung on the line and thrust along the line by a rod to replicate a pitch. A person may then swing the bat, and if properly swung, the line will enter the slot in the bat and the bat will hit the ball. Furthermore, the line may be manipulated and/or positioned to replicate different pitches.

Abstract: A sensor based tennis serve training apparatus includes a stand, a ball tosser coupled to said stand, an optical marker coupled to said stand and in electronic communications with said ball tosser, the optical marker to mark a ball strike zone, an ultrasonic tennis arm movement detector attached to said stand and in electronic communication with said ball tosser to detect arm movement, and a selectively timed ball discharging magazine attached to said stand and in electronic communication with said ball tosser. Said apparatus can further include an electronic communication control box coupled to said stand and mediating electronic communication between said magazine, ball tosser, ultrasonic tennis arm movement detector, and optical marker.

Abstract: The present invention provides for the first time a swing trainer having a sheath with a core end and a protective end, the core end of the sheath has a cover attached.

Abstract: A training device includes a plate assembly pivotally connected to a support member. The plate assembly includes an angled top plate that is removably mounted onto a flat balance plate. The support member includes a rectangular mounting bracket that is transversely disposed across an enlarged base, the balance plate directly teetering on the mounting bracket. In use, the training device can be used to train a hitter to maximize lower body power using sensory and auditory feedback. Specifically, the hitter centers his rear foot on the angled top plate which promotes weight loading on the inner portion of the rear leg. The hitter then initiates the hitting process by driving the lower body forward until the balance plate pivots forward and strikes the base, thereby providing the user with audible and tactile response. This lower body drive creates significant momentum that powers rotation of the bat through the hitting zone.

Abstract: A batting or ball practice cage has one or more frame members with a net attached over the frame. Frame members may be assembled having springs or elbows at the corner. A pitching machine may be aligned with the cage at one end.

Abstract: A throwing object that includes a multi-sided member that includes a top and a peripheral sidewall integral with the top. The top and peripheral sidewall together form a cap-shaped member that is hollow with the peripheral sidewall having an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer surface is formed as a concave surface shaped for receiving the finger or fingers of the user with the inner surface including a reinforcing rib that is integral with the sidewall.

Abstract: A bat conditioning device for breaking in or seasoning softball or baseball bats. A preferred conditioning device includes a handle having a first end and a second end, a grip attached to the first end of the handle, and a head attached to the second end of the handle having an impact response that mimics that of a regulation softball. In the preferred form, the head is a regulation softball. The bat conditioning device is of a length that allows softball bats to be broken-in by striking a bat held in one hand of a user, with the conditioning device being held in the other hand.

Abstract: A batting practice apparatus able to be installed on any flat surface includes a base, a batting unit, an air-pump unit and at least one suction unit. The batting unit is mounted on the topside of the base while the air-pump unit is installed in the interior of the base and connected with the batting unit, and the suction unit is also positioned in the base and communicates with the air-pump unit. When receiving external force to swing, the batting unit will actuate the air-pump unit to pump air out of the suction unit and form a vacuum chamber between the suction unit and the flat surface, able to increase the suction strength of the suction unit and lighten the batting practice apparatus.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are various inventive methods and apparatus related to an apparatus and method for teaching bunting techniques to baseball or softball players. A bunting mat may be provided that contains a plurality of lines that aide a player in better understanding bunting techniques, including aiding a player with appropriately positioning their feet for a bunt.