Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for a creative solution that helps teach younger adults/children about baseball and permits them to better participate in hitting fundamentals. The apparatus includes a spheroid having a diameter in a range of about two to five inches and constructed using foam\blow-molded material; and a tail, coupled to the spheroid, constructed using foam\blow-molded material, the tail providing both enhancement of aerodynamic flight properties of the spheroid and inhibition of end-over-end rotation of the spheroid after being thrown, hit, or launched.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for improving the reaction timing of an individual to the action of an individual or machine. When used in sports and specifically for baseball hitting reaction timing, the Opposing Pitcher's ball speed and release point distance is measured. The batting practice pitcher's or pitching machine's ball speed is measured. By use of the TIME RIGHT™ CONVERSION CHARTS, the batting practice pitcher or pitching machine is positioned at a pitcher's mat and the hitter is positioned at a hitter's mat. The hitter's mat is positioned proximal at least one batter's box. A movable home plate is positioned on the hitter's mat. The hitter and the pitcher are positioned on the respective hitter's mat and pitcher's mat by determination, via the conversion charts, of the respective distances which will replicate the ball speed and the release point distance of an opposing pitcher.

Abstract: A pivoting frame assembly for use with a pitching machine. The pitching machine for pitching balls. The pivoting frame assembly for supporting the pitching machine above a ground surface. The pivoting frame assembly having a first portion for supporting the pitching machine and a second portion configured for contacting a ground surface, these first and second portions pivotally connected to one another.

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: The present invention discloses a play implement positioning device including an implement support for holding a first play implement in a play position to be struck. The invention also discloses a mechanism for selectively, automatically placing multiple stored play implements onto the implement support after the first implement has been struck and dislodged from the implement support.

Abstract: An artificial pitcher for practicing the hitting skill of baseball includes an artificial pitcher on a support and having a ball holder on top, a main spring biased a stroke which are held by a hook on a hollow interior cylindrical main body, and a control device positioned remote from the pitcher having a rope to control the hook to release the stroke to hit a baseball from the ball holder flying to a batter. In order to pitch a transforming ball, an angular adjustment plate is positioned beside the main body to help the main body to adjust its angle of elevation.

Abstract: A batting instruction system is disclosed. The system includes an indicator assembly having a plurality of indicators disposed thereon. Each of the plurality of indicators corresponds to a motion of a pitcher prior to the pitcher delivering a pitched ball. A method of teaching batting with the system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A device for learning pitching technique for ball games and improving muscle strength through resistance training. The device, which consists of an elongated U shaped coiled tubular spring with a curved end and pair of straight parallel shaft portions with solid tips, is aligned with and strapped to the user's pitching forearm. The device adjusts to fit the forearm. A rod or elastic string is fitted through a sleeve in the ball's internal polar tunnel, and the opposing ends of the rod or string are attached to the tips so that the ball can be spun around the rod or bounced on the string, to simulate pitching. A shock absorbent casing on the curved end and strap increases comfort. Opposing ends of an elastic band can be attached to the device and a stable object, such as a pole, to perform resistance training.

Abstract: A device for teaching a baseball or softball pitcher includes a storage unit for holding a pre-marked tape measure, a pitching rubber, and a home plate along with fastening devices for securing the pitching rubber and home plate in their desired position.

Abstract: A static aiming target for perfecting basketball bank shots appears to move horizontally and vertically along a backboard as a player moves back and forth across the court and towards and away from the backboard. This apparent movement of the aiming target is produced by visual aiming regions which allow for predetermined viewing of portions of the aiming target as a function of a player's position on the court. In each case, a player shoots for the aiming target in order to complete a proper bank shot.

Abstract: A protective screen for use with a pitching machine. The pitching machine for pitching balls. The protective screen having a passageway defined there-through for permitting a ball to be pitched by the pitching machine there-through. The protective screen having a door configured for opening and closing in concert with the pitching of balls so as to open to permit a ball to be pitched there-through but automatically closed right there-behind to protect the operator of the pitching machine from injury due to a batted ball.

Abstract: The Designated Hitter Pitching Training System (DH) is a silhouette figure of a batter that stands in the batter's box during bullpen sessions for baseball and fastpitch softball pitchers of all ages and skill levels. Constructed of durable polyethylene, the DH comes in three sizes: the Pro (6?2?), Varsity (5?8?) and Youth (5?2?). The DH provides a more realistic, game-like way for pitchers to practice and will improve a pitcher's ability to more consistently throw their pitches in the strike zone, as well as pitch more accurately and confidently to the inside part of the plate with the Inside Pitch Target. All of this will combine to improve game performance. The DH can also be used by pitchers and catchers as part of their practice activities such as throwing to bases, bunt defense, pitchouts, and intentional walks.

Abstract: The present invention relates to training aids to promote well balanced swing technique for any sport that requires a swinging motion related but not limited to baseball, softball, golf, tennis, racquetball, squash and cricket, including a rotating foot pad connected to a portable balance platform.

Abstract: An apparatus for underhand tossing of a ball includes a cabinet with a hollow tossing arm pivotally coupled thereto. A mechanism is provided to dispense a single ball at a time from a supply of balls into the hollow tossing arm. A spring is affixed at one end to the hollow tossing arm and affixed at a distal end to the cabinet at a point forward of the hollow tossing arm. A machine is provided for pulling a distal end of the hollow tossing arm toward a back end of the cabinet and releasing the hollow tossing arm such that the distal end of the hollow tossing arm swings forward, releasing the ball at a point at which the hollow tossing arm hits a stop peg.

Abstract: A baseball training aid is provided which includes an audio or visual pitch indicator for simulating a baseball pitcher's pitch. The training aid further includes an impact sensor, preferably in the form of a microphone, for detecting whether a practicing batter's swing is timely, premature or late. The audio signals produced by the microphone are processed by a processor to determine the timeliness of the batter's swing. The results are then communicated to the batter using an audio or visual feedback indicator.

Abstract: A system for training a batter to automatically swing at pitched balls corresponding to strikes and to refrain from swinging at pitched balls not corresponding to strikes, the device including a visual reference member suspended between a pitcher's mound and a home plate where the batter is located, at a location in front of the plate, so that the trajectory of a pitch from a pitcher's release point proximate the pitcher's mound to a point in a strike zone proximate the home plate consistently passes through a portion of the visual reference member.

Abstract: A device for learning pitching technique for ball games and improving muscle strength through resistance training. The device, which consists of an elongated U shaped coiled tubular spring with a curved end and pair of straight parallel shaft portions with solid tips, is aligned with and strapped to the user's pitching forearm. The device adjusts to fit the forearm. A rod or elastic string is fitted through a sleeve in the ball's internal polar tunnel, and the opposing ends of the rod or string are attached to the tips so that the ball can be spun around the rod or bounced on the string, to simulate pitching. A shock absorbent casing on the curved end and strap increases comfort. Opposing ends of an elastic band can be attached to the device and a stable object, such as a pole, to perform resistance training.

Abstract: A pitching practice apparatus includes a frame unit having a rectangular frame member, X-axis and Y-axis sensor units mounted on the frame member, a control unit connected to the sensor units and to a sound generating device, and a net body provided on the frame unit. The sensor units are operable so as to form sampling regions for sensing entry of a ball into the frame member. The control unit determines position of the ball entering into the frame member, and compares the ball position with preset parameters to determine whether the ball is a good ball or a foul ball. Ball information determined by the control unit is shown on a display device. The sound generating device is used to generate a sound output corresponding to status of the ball that was thrown into the frame member as determined by the control unit.

Abstract: A combination of a ball storage rack and a ball feeder track provide an apparatus for basketball storage and consistent position retrieval of sport balls, such as basketballs and volleyballs, by a player. The apparatus comprises a frame configured with an upper portion along the length of the frame capable of holding a plurality of sport balls with a lower rack configured to hold a plurality of sport balls and an extendable feeder track capable of receiving a sport ball and facilitating movement of the sport ball down the track for retrieval of the sport ball by a player. Feeder track may be extended for use in active sports drills or sport games, or folded or retracted for convenient storage of the apparatus when not in use. Apparatus may be configured to hold and display signage such as advertisements.

Abstract: A baseball practicing apparatus includes two opposite upright frames, two opposite longitudinal rods mounted between the upright frames and provided with a plurality of first emitters and a plurality of first receivers respectively, and two opposite transverse rods mounted between the upright frames and provided with a plurality of second emitters and a plurality of second receivers respectively. Thus, the pitching position of the baseball is detected exactly by provision of the emitters and receivers, so that the user can judge and calibrate the pitching position of the baseball, thereby facilitating the user practicing the pitching skill. In addition, the baseball practicing apparatus detects and displays the pitching position and the velocity of the baseball simultaneously, thereby enhancing the amusement effect.

Abstract: An apparatus for practicing baseball and softball hitting skills includes a ball holder on a rod that is suspended by a single degree of freedom support at an interior point of the rod length and the rod is balanced and proportioned relative to the support point and the ball in order to position a ball at any three-dimensional location in the hitting zone of the batter in a stable state by manual movement of the opposite balanced end of the rod.

Abstract: A method of assessing the biomechanical efficiency of a pitching delivery relative to time elapsed through certain motions of the pitching delivery. The method includes a pitching delivery timeline. The pitching delivery timeline has a first time requirement between 0.95 and 1.05 seconds within which a first forward movement until a foot strike range of motion should be completed. The pitching delivery timeline has a second time requirement between 1.25 and 1.35 seconds and corresponds to the time it takes to complete the first forward movement and a ball release range of motion. The pitching delivery timeline has a third time requirement from between 1.925 and 2.025 seconds and corresponds to the time it optimally takes to move from the first forward movement to a follow through range of motion. The method includes comparing at least one of the time requirements with a pitcher's delivery time for the corresponding range of motion.

Abstract: A fielding drill assistive device which may be employed in conjunction with a team's fielding drills to simulate a runner running from home to first base after hitting the ball. The device includes an input means for detecting when a bat makes contact with the ball and a means for showing progress of the runner and when the runner would hypothetically reach first base. An input means is employed to automatically detect without human intervention when contact is made between the bat and the ball. Several variations of input means are described herein. In one embodiment, a vibration sensor is provided. The vibration sensor may be attached to the bat, and the vibration sensor detects contact vibration when the bat strikes a ball. In another embodiment, an input transducer is used to detect the sound of contact between the ball and bat.

Abstract: A hand-held baseball data gathering and manipulating device is used by coaches and scouts to analyze and coach pitchers and players. The device includes functions for tracking and analyzing pitching performance and for tracking and analyzing playing performance of players other than pitchers. Stop watch functions are also included.

Abstract: An air tee apparatus includes a frusto-conical housing forming an air nozzle having an opening along an axis of the frusto-conical housing. An axial fan is located within the frusto-conical housing and along the axis of the frusto-conical housing. The axial fan creates a flow of air within the frusto-conical housing, the flow of air being discharged through the air nozzle to support a ball in midair above the frusto-conical housing.

Abstract: A process for more accurately delivering a hitting device to a ball, including the steps of: positioning straightly the leading or front leg at the start of and during the process until after contact with the ball, pointing and planting the leading or front foot at least partially in the direction from which the ball is traveling, positioning the hands and the hitting device such that the distal end of the hitting device is below the shoulders and the hitting device is held substantially parallel to the ground at the start of the process, delivering the hitting device in the same plane as the ball is traveling, and utilizing rotation of the trunk and hips about an axis to delivering the hitting device to a ball with little or no forward or lateral movement of the body.

Abstract: A ball hitting training device is disclosed for allowing a user to practice swinging a bat at a ball. The ball hitting training device includes a base assembly for resting on a support surface. A ball support assembly supports a ball to be struck by a bat swung by the user to allow the user to practice swinging the bat. The ball support assembly is coupled to the stanchion member of the stanchion assembly.

Abstract: An assembly for training the hand/eye coordination of an individual. The assembly comprises an unobstructed region where an individual maneuvers a training member through the unobstructed region.

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: This device will train an individual to strike a baseball. It is used for beginners as well as some of the advanced players by allowing the ball to be forced into different directions to simulate various pitching maneuvers.

Abstract: An improved height adjustment mechanism for a batting tee uses an adjustment screw that attaches a compressible washer assembly to the bottom of an inner telescoping member to spread a compressible washer, thereby increasing the diameter of the compressible washer assembly and consequently adjusting internal friction between the washer assembly and the inner surface of an outer telescoping member to a desired amount necessary to hold the inner telescoping member stationary within the external telescoping member while the tee is being used while still allowing manual height adjustment of the batting tee as may be desired by the batter.

Abstract: A baseball training device includes a target net from which balls will be fed to a unit that will throw the balls back to a player. The unit can be set to throw the balls in the air or on the ground so a variety of situations can be practiced.

Abstract: A fungo batting assisting machine having a frame; a cradle mounted upon the frame, the cradle having a ball percussion port; a hammer; a first pivot joint interconnecting the hammer and the frame so that the hammer may move between a spring energy position underlying the ball percussion port and a ball driving position overlying the spring energy position; a ball driving spring normally positioning the hammer between its spring energy and ball driving positions; a trip arm extending from the hammer; a pawl arm; a second pivot joint interconnecting the pawl arm and the frame so that the a pawl arm may move between a trip arm carrying position and a trip arm releasing position; and an actuation lever extending from the pawl arm.

Abstract: A novel ball hitting training device configured to hold two bats together in a secure configuration. Also provided is a method of using the device to increase bat speed; strengthen the arm, core, and grip; and improve, and receive feedback on, bat swing technique. The training device allows the user to assess if his hands and grip are optimally positioned to deliver maximum power to the ball upon contact. The device provides two pockets, each having a bat handle end and a bat head end. The pockets are connected to each other between the bat handle ends and the bat head ends. Each bat handle end includes a bat handle opening, such that each pocket can receive a bat through the bat handle opening. A fastener near the bat handle end cinches the device around the bats, which may allow for the twisting of the bats such that the handles are touching and the knob of one bat is closer to the bat handle openings than the knob of the other bat.

Abstract: This invention relates to an integrally weighted baseball cover and system, method and apparatus for quickly delivering the cover and placing it onto an area of a baseball field, such as one or more of the infield areas, such as home base area, first base area, second base area, third base area, pitcher's mound area and/or bullpen areas.

Abstract: A hingedly collapsible batting practice device with a top v-shaped component hingedly connected to two side members and supportable in an approximate horizontal orientation. A rear member attaches to the top of each side member. A bottom v-shaped component hingedly connected to the two side members with a support member for supporting the two side members in an approximate vertical orientation. Each v-shaped component is also hinged at the front to permit each side of the component to pivot toward each other to facilitate collapsing the device. An elastic cord attached to the rear member extends frontward and downward from the top v-shaped component and supports a ball at its terminal end. A non-elastic cord is attached to the ball and each loose end of the non-elastic cord is attached to the bottom v-shaped component.

Abstract: A device for training a pitcher or thrower, the device having a form that simulates the ball for which the pitcher is to be trained, examples being a softball or baseball. The device is constructed to allow one part of it to visibly rotate while one or more additional parts of the device visibly do not. It has a surface similar to the surface of the ball for which the pitcher would train, and a means to emit a distinctive and easily audible sound when it is properly thrown.

Abstract: A batting system wherein the ball hopper is located proximate a batting position and a pitching machine is located at a pitching position with a ball transport system for conveying baseballs from the ball hopper to the pitching machine. The system provides for the continuous operation of the pitching machine without the need of an operator to approach the pitching machine. In addition, the batting system allows multiple batting systems to use continuously the same field as well as use a field also used as part of a golf driving range.

Abstract: The present invention provides a batting tee comprising a hollow tubular vertical stand having a first end through which at least one ball can be loaded inside said tubular vertical stand, and a second end, a means for pushing the ball upwardly just above the first end, the pushing means housed within said hollow tubular stand, and a horizontal base plate affixed to the second end portion.

Abstract: A free standing, portable device for teaching pitching technique for softball or baseball. The device consists of a folding h-shaped base that rests on the ground and supports a removable vertical member. A horizontal track member is removably secured to the vertical member and can be adjusted in height on the vertical member to match the height of the pitcher. A ball attaches to the horizontal track member and can travel along the horizontal track member as the pitcher executes a pitch while grasping the ball. The ball is mounted to the horizontal track in such a way that the ball is free to spin in either direction relative to the horizontal track. In an alternate embodiment, an optional curved track can replace the horizontal track member in order to facilitate teaching additional pitching techniques.

Abstract: A tee-ball server apparatus for conducting batting practice wherein the apparatus supplies a ball to a ball receiving seat member so the batter may swing a bat in order to hit the ball. The tee-ball server apparatus includes a movable rod having the ball receiving seat member thereon, with the movable rod being movable between a retracted position and an extended position within a server housing. The tee-ball server apparatus further includes a worm gear assembly for driving the movable rod between the retracted position and the extended position for receiving a ball on the ball receiving seat member to be hit; and a ball supply chute assembly is disposed adjacent to the server housing for supplying balls to the ball receiving seat member on the movable rod for the batter to hit the ball.

Abstract: A low profile, baseball training aid device to provide a proper target for the pitcher and a positioning aid for the catcher receiving the pitcher's throw. The device, preferably fabricated of a thermoplastic material, comprises a base section mounting a pair of side sections, where the side sections define pitching locations within and outside the ‘strike’ zone to thereby provide a more precise targeting location for the pitcher. In a preferred embodiment, the side sections may be provided with a color distinguishable surface to visually distinguish the respective side sections from the base section.

Abstract: A batter training and protection system and method are shown. A protector for protecting an infield area is provided with a plurality of indicia situated thereon or integrally formed therein to define a plurality of target areas, respectively. The indicia may comprise a plurality of material segments, a plurality of colors, patterns, graphics or the like in order to define the plurality of target areas at which a player may practice bunting a baseball.

Abstract: The instant invention relates to a training device for batting practice. More specifically, the instant invention provides a catch net in combination with an air powered ball return assembly. The ball return assembly delivers a lightweight polymeric ball to a batter in the form of a soft-toss. A hit ball is caught by the net and recycled to the batter. The ball may be hit and recycled back to the batter for a player specified length of time.

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 practice apparatus for indicating if a desired ball speed has been attained or exceeded in a defined strike zone comprising a pivoted ball target assembly for absorbing energy from the ball, a spring for storing the absorbed energy, a ball speed indicator with a signal device and a chassis with cover panels. In operation, a pitched ball impacting the defined strike zone will transfer kinetic energy to the ball target assembly which will convert the energy to rotational kinetic energy. The rotational kinetic energy is then stored as elastic energy of the spring. The ball speed indicator with signal device will sense the deformation of the spring and will indicate if the desired the ball speed has been attained or exceeded by the raising of a flag. The desired ball speed can be set by the user. The apparatus can be made to essentially stop the ball after impact or to allow the ball to rebound.

Abstract: A practice machine for receiving a thrown ball and returning it to a user is generally provided with a backstop for stopping the thrown ball, a pan disposed below the backstop for collecting the ball, a ball return adjacent the backstop for expelling the ball, and a trough disposed between the pan and the ball return for feeding the ball from the pan to the ball return. The ball return can adjust between ball sizes and vary the trajectory of expelled balls. Moreover, the ball return can be equipped with safety features including a proximity sensor, audible alerts, speed adjustment and tamper resistant controls. Further, the ball return can alternate between a MANUAL mode and an AUTOMATIC mode. The backstop of the practice machine can be collapsible to permit convenient storage and ease of transportation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a baseball swing trainer. In a first embodiment, a ball is pivotally attached to a vertical arm which is slidably attached to an oblique arm, the oblique arm is attached to a horizontal arm which is attached to a support structure; the vertical arm is contained within a first and second guide arm; a stopping member is attached to a first end of the oblique arm and a stopping bar is attached to a second end of the oblique arm such that when the ball is struck, the ball pivots on the vertical arm as the vertical arm slides up the oblique arm, striking the stopping bar and thereafter sliding back down the oblique arm to return to its starting position cradled within the stopping member. The travel path of the ball provides instantaneous feedback as to the quality of the swing.

Abstract: A sports training device comprises a substantially vertical standard with a suitable ball at the top for practicing sports such as baseball or tennis or a bent over standard with a ball close to the ground for practicing sports such as golf. The ball is attached to an arm that is, in turn, attached to a pivot and a spring both on the standard. Striking the ball in the normal manner for the particular sport causes the ball to move away from the bat, racket or club until clear. The ball then returns under the influence of the spring and oscillates about the starting location of the ball. Depending on spring tension and damping effects of the arm, spring and standard, the ball will become stationary very quickly or continue to oscillate widely. For some sports, heavy damping is preferred. For other sports, light damping may be preferred.

Abstract: A baseball training system and method for training a player is shown. The baseball system and method includes a collector for collecting thrown balls and directing them to a throwback unit which has multiple adjusters for adjusting various characteristics of a ball being thrown back. The throwback unit can be adjusted to accommodate different ball sizes to change a trajectory of a ball being thrown back by the throwback unit.