GB2536890A - Ball training apparatus and facilitating devices - Google Patents

Abstract

Ball training apparatus suitable for modification and adjustment, comprising in use a plurality of horizontal boards 1, which may comprise elongate flat boards configured to define perimeters of a substantially horizontal training zone, a plurality of members 2, which may be tubular members upstanding therefrom configured to define substantially vertical perimeters to the zone, and at least one side configured to provide a boundary to said zone. Also claimed are a corner device 3 for attachment of two orthogonally extending substantially horizontal elongate boards, and a socket 36 for an upstanding member. There may also be an impact sensor, or a perforated side, comprising either targets or netting.

Description

BALL TRAINING APPARATUS AND FACILITATING DEVICES

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to ball training apparatus, in particular a ball training apparatus for spatial reconfiguration; more particularly but not exclusively a training apparatus suitable for reconfiguration to allow multiple forms of training with balls such as footballs.

Background

Increasing numbers of people or users across the world enjoy and recognise the importance of physical exercise.

However exercise can be daunting or difficult to maintain. It is known that ball sports tend to be more engaging and ultimately easier to practise, whilst maintaining a level of exercise at the same time.

In addition some ball sports combine the pleasures and impetus of team sports with 20 the exercise and practice opportunities of individual sports. Practising ball sports such as soccer may only require a ball and a wall. However even with soccer, it can be difficult to practise all moves or vary the practice sufficient to make it engaging.

Prior Art

Accordingly a number of patent applications have been filed in an attempt to resolve the problem or similar, including the following: Granted United States patent US 8 496 546 (BULLOCH) comprises a springless rebounding apparatus for rebounding a projectile, said rebounding apparatus comprising: a plurality of elongate frame members secured together to form a structural frame defining a central opening, each of said frame members having a cross section that includes a first section and a flange projecting outwardly from said first section, said flange defining a distal edge, said frame members being secured together wherein said flanges project axially from said first sections wherein a first axial length of said central opening circumscribed by said flanges and axially disposed between said distal edges of said flanges and said first sections forms a larger opening than a second axial length of said central opening circumscribed by said first sections of said frame members; a springless bounceback assembly supported by said structural frame within said first axial length of said central opening 5 and adapted to rebound the projectile, said bounceback assembly including a flexible sheet of material defining a rebounding surface and having an outer edge, a plurality of elastic loops secured to said flexible sheet proximate said outer edge, and a plurality of elongate mounting members, each of said mounting members being inserted through at least one of said elastic loops and being secured to one of said 10 frame members.

United States patent application US 2007 021 241 (GELLER et al) discloses an apparatus for playing a ball game comprising a playing area comprising a playing surface; said playing surface having a generally planar surface and two short sides and two long sides, said playing surface and said two short sides and two long sides forming a generally rectangular shape, said playing surface having two short walls and two long walls wherein each of said short walls corresponds to and extends upward a certain height from each of said two short sides, and each of said long walls corresponds to and extends upward a certain height from each of said two long sides, wherein a plurality of support portions attach to and support said two short side walls and said two long walls, wherein said two short walls, said two long walls, said two short sides, said two long sides, said plurality of support portions and said playing surface join together to form a playing area, wherein each short wall having an elevated goal area located a certain distance from the generally planar surface of said playing surface and located another certain distance from the intersection of one of said two short walls and one of said two long walls, and said a certain distance and said another certain distance is the same for each elevated goal area.

Granted United States patent US 6 422 956 (KUSMISS) discloses an apparatus to enable a player of a sport involving the propulsion of a ball or the like to practice said sport, comprising: a ball-returning device for returning balls hit against it, and an imaging device separate and spaced apart from said ball-returning device and disposed in relation to said ball-returning device so as to allow said player to observe his or her form while hitting said balls, wherein said ball-returning device includes a transparent backboard and said imaging device includes a mirror disposed in back of said backboard.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a ball training apparatus suitable for spatial reconfiguration, comprising in use a plurality of horizontal boards configured to define perimeters of a substantially horizontal training zone, a plurality of members upstanding therefrom configured to define substantially vertical perimeters to the zone, and at least one side configured to provide a boundary to said zone.

Such side may comprise a perforated net, so as to provide a vertical boundary to the zone. This net may be a substantially open mesh or may comprise a substantially closed material with perforations provided as targets for balls.

Such side may comprise a roof, to comprise a substantially horizontal boundary to the zone. The roof may be netting, perforated, solid, transparent, translucent or opaque. The roof may be temporary and easily detached, and may be used for inclement conditions and/or prevention of loss of balls and/or means to maintain the sides rigid.

Sides and/or roof may be combined to provide a zone that is bounded vertically and horizontally.

In this way the apparatus provides a portable and at ground level at least horizontally 25 self-contained zone for practising soccer, or hockey or other ball sports. Ideally the zone is multifunctional and multisided with a least one side having a vertical boundary.

In this way a user is advantageously enabled to practise a plurality of moves, including passing, hitting or kicking at lower levels, and shooting.

In an embodiment the apparatus includes corners, or corner devices, for use between boards. Such devices may be detachable or displaceable from the boards and the devices may comprise means to configure and interconnect the boards and 35 members.

The boards may comprise elongate largely planar pieces of plastic such as polyethylene or wood, with the devices providing a means to hold the board ends vertically. The boards may be rearranged to a different angle with respect to vertical, for example so as to obtusely angle the board away from the zone. The devices preferably enable the boards to be fixed and rearranged at variable angles.

The boards are arranged in use along or adjacent the ground and define a footprint for the training zone. In this footprint a user is able to train and a ball is prevented from exiting the footprint at ground level and the zone provides an area in which 10 training apparatus may be configured for use.

Typically the members extend vertically from the devices so as to define the vertical boundaries of the zone. In some embodiments the angle the members upstand from the devices may be amended in use this may provide variation in vertical boundaries, 15 for example allowing angled netting such as to contain balls or shots.

In some embodiments the members may upstand from the boards, for example wherein the boards include male or female parts and the members include corresponding female or male parts.

Preferably the members may be arranged to support the net wherein the members and boards provide a frame for netting to reach between so as to create a net. Such frame in use advantageously may comprise a top support stretching between members.

Such top support may comprise an elongate pole reaching between members to form a fourth side in use with two side members and a lowermost board. In some embodiments devices may be in use between the members and support, which devices may allow the support to be arranged at a variety of heights on the members.

Such frame may also be configured for support of other parts. For example top bars may be installed to reach horizontally from one support to another, traversing the zone. Such bars may subdivide the zone for use for training purposes or configurations.

25 30 35 In some embodiments the frame may include longitudinal slots or lateral lacunae as a means of attaching panels or equipment.

The frame may allow for subdivision in particular with respect to larger embodiments wherein boards and/or members may be daisychained. Accordingly connector devices may be provided for sequential connection of boards, members or frames. Such devices may be used intermediate boards or members in addition or the alternative. Such devices may allow rearrangement and fixing of the boards and/or members.

Advantageously the frame may supply support for a hanging bag or hanging bags, for example wherein the bag is hung intermediately from such a bar in use. Such bag may be of use as a punch, kick or other training manoeuvre practice aid. Other hanging items may comprise targets or the like. Resistance bands or other bodyweight training devices may be supportable by the frame in use.

The frame may also allow for a basketball or netball hoop, such as can be attached to the supports. Such hoop is ideally attached to the top support but may be arranged on a member, for example where a member is arranged to upstand 20 intermediate the corners. Such member may upstand from a connector device.

The frame allows for attachment of a plurality of items wherein the frame is constructed in use to allow variation in configuration, to accommodate a plurality of items.

It may be envisaged that many variations of the apparatus can be created for different training activities in use or with further parts. For example a training scenario may be envisaged such as the side netting reducing to half height, allowing multiple players to practice short range aerial passing from in to outside the zone. In this way users can play foot or head tennis over the half net or bar.

Setups for solo or group activities may be configured as required, for example wherein a number of zones may be configured with adjacent zones.

In some embodiments the devices may include bracket clips for location over the boards to form 'H' shape or connect orthogonal boards intermediate a length of board. Adapting the boards into an 'H' shape allows two goals or two open ended zones backing onto each other.

In some embodiments the boards include perforations to at least one side edge 5 wherein in use for example support arms may be located into perforations or holes along the top edge of the boards.

In some embodiments electronics inside the boards may be envisaged to register impacts. In preferred embodiments however sensor pads can be clipped onto the 10 passing boards creating areas where the user can aim for. Each pad is connected to a display unit to keep score of the number of passes made.

A display screen on the unit shows the time and score. The unit may be able to be clipped over the cross bar of the goal, a top pole or a upstanding member. Assuming 15 other electronic components are being used such as the passing sensors, the display unit can be wired up or configured wirelessly to keep score.

In some embodiments electronics or electrics may be incorporated into other parts of the apparatus, for example sensors or lights on rebound surfaces, the frame or net.

In such manner the apparatus may be enabled to provide a networked training apparatus. For example lighting and display may be configured to allow the user to keep track of rebounds, impacts or scores. In some such embodiments the user can put a sequence of lights out, wherein a central unit controls the sequence. For example in some embodiments the central unit gives audio and visual cues to aid in training.

In some embodiments the apparatus contains hard wiring for example batteries, plugs and sockets, and other embodiments the apparatus comprises wireless connectivity and independent battery power. Further embodiments may include 30 energy harvesting means such as photovoltaic cells.

In some embodiments adjustable tensioning may be possible at the nets and in some embodiments the panels may be flexible and/or adjustable for rebound surface effectiveness. In some embodiments nets can be used to contain balls.

A chalk or white board is able to be clipped to the goal post / cross bar.

In some further embodiments the apparatus may comprise foldable parts, for transport or storage. The parts of the apparatus may also include slots, longitudinal or sequential, so as to allow attachment of further parts.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a corner device for forming an apparatus as described, said device in use holding two orthogonal and substantially horizontal boards and one substantially vertical member; and wherein the member's angle to vertical is variable and the boards' plane to horizontal is variable.

Brief Description of Figures

Figures 1 show isometric views of different configurations of the embodied invention; Figures 2 shows side views of a first configuration of the embodied invention; Figure 3 shows an isometric exploded view of a second configuration of the embodied invention; Figures 4 show plan views of a third configuration of the embodied invention; Figure 5 shows a side view of the second configuration as shown in Figures 3; Figures 6 show isometric views of additional elements for use in variant configurations of the invention; Figures 7 show isometric detail views of devices in use in a configuration of the embodied invention as shown in Figures 1; and Figure 8 shows an isometric view of an additional element for use in a configuration of the invention.

Detailed Description of Figures

With reference to the figures there is shown a multipurpose football training apparatus with adjustable rebound surfaces 1, that improves the user's skill / control / reaction speed. In use the approximate size of 3x3m provides a multifunctional training aid with varying configurations and accessories to cater for different sports, exercise and fitness use for individual or group practice. Other embodiments are provided in other sizes, or embodiments are reconfigurable.

The apparatus provides a semi-permanent multifunctional football training aid for solo 10 or group use and is able to be used to improve a wide range of user skills.

The corner connector devices 3 are to support the structure of apparatus both vertically and laterally and netting 10 on the sides enclose users and creates unpredictable ball returns. The devices furthermore provide weighting for the apparatus wherein the apparatus may also include holes for pegs (not shown) to pin to ground if necessary, preferably being in the devices as pictured, or boards. The devices in some embodiments may support the netting.

A variety of materials and manufacturing processes could be applied for the devices; bearing in mind the intended application and use case a body 30 of glass reinforced concrete may provide required weight, impact resistance and can be finished with a variety of 'skins' for aesthetics. Other embodiments may include other weighting or ballast means, for example a cavity for filling by the user in use. Furthermore the shape is easily moulded to accommodate any required features such as peg holes, adjuster points and the vertical member locators or sockets 36.

The devices in the pictured embodiment allow the user to adjust the side boards up to a 45 degree angle in either direction allowing passing practice in and outside the zone.

The boards are adjusted to differing angles to improve the users' passing skills and reactions. Adjusting the board angle is achieved by pulling an index plunger handle 31, allowing rotation of the board in the device. The user should angle the board as required and release the plunger subsequently at an appropriate hole 33 in the device. Plates 35 hold against the board ends 101.

The netting is stretched and clipped onto the frame, creating a goal as required wherein ideally nets vary in angle, tension and height.

A detachable canopy 9 is attached to the frame when needed to help shelter the user 5 from rain and overly sunny conditions. The canopy has a vented top 15 and can be attached to the top of the apparatus to provide shelter from rain and overly sunny days.

A small stand or clip accommodates a speed gun 13 to allow appropriate mounting 10 and positioning on or about the apparatus.

Corner devices as pictured include the following: Spring loaded index plungers 31 out to change the angle of the kick boards. 15 Incremental holes 33 provide 15 degrees of change at a time.

Inbuilt retractable wheels 32, having a lever 34 to retract the wheel and lock the apparatus in place.

The members 2 upstand in use from the devices and comprise a pivot 20, adjustable dial 21 and stopper 22; which allow variation in vertical angle.

Impact sensor pads 40 connected wirelessly to the scoreboard to keep count of how many passes have been made. The sensor pads are included in corner parts 17, which comprise a angled brace 41 and end clips 42 which fit over the boards. In some embodiments the impact sensor may be included in a board or device, for example wherein the board relays the impact to the device and/or the device relays the impact to a display unit.

The pictured embodiment of the apparatus includes the following: Target wall 6 may be netting or solid, so that users can practice aim with an attachable net with holes.

Tactics board 19 for coach or player to write a list of drills or skills to practice with aipeable surface 56 and hook and loop attachment 50.

Top support bar 4 to makes the frame sturdier.

Score board 14,18 that attaches to the frame and has a hook and loop attachment 5 50, display screen 55, timer 53 for timed practices, and score counter 52 that connects to sensor pads with speakers 51 to sound when time is up. A lanyard attachment point 54 is further provided for attachment to other items.

Vertical support members 2 to suspend netting can be angled to create varying 10 rebound surfaces.

Vertical extending support members 16.

Target points printed on the kick boards to allow user to practice their aim (not 15 shown).

Intermediate connector devices 8 to allow angled net 7 to create different rebounds improving the users' ball handling skills. In some embodiments diagonal braces may form or augment the angled net, or the intermediate connector devices. Such braces 20 may be comprised by the top support bars or vertical members.

With extra corner devices and additional parts the apparatus may be transformed into a panna cage.

There is a variety of add-ons and accessories for the apparatus such as monkey bars 5, punch bag 12, netball or basketball hoop 11, rugby, Gaelic football posts (not shown), cricket nets (not shown), and speed radar 13.

With reference to Figure 2c a central exit or access is provided having a hook and 30 loop closure such as Velcro (RTM). With reference to Figure 5 the central lacuna comprises a means of access or retrieval of balls.

The apparatus is able to be transformed into a goal to allow players to practice together. The goal size is configured to be able to cater for hockey, futsal and 35 handball.

The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the scope of invention. Firstly it will be understood that any features described in relation to any particular embodiment may be featured in combinations with other embodiments.

With respect to the specification therefore, it is to be realised that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention, with variation and implementation obvious and clear on the basis of either common general knowledge or of expert knowledge in the field concerned. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention as set out in the accompanying claims.

Claims (22)

1. Claims 1. Ball training apparatus suitable for spatial reconfiguration, comprising in use a plurality of horizontal boards configured to define perimeters of a substantially horizontal training zone, a plurality of members upstanding therefrom configured to define substantially vertical perimeters to the zone, and at least one side configured to provide a boundary to said zone.
2. 2. Apparatus according to claim 1 comprising elongate planar boards, elongate tubular members, and perforated material; and having corner devices configured to grip ends of two boards, and provide a socket for a member.
3. 3. Apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the devices allow variation in the boards' plane with respect to the members.
4. 4. Apparatus according to claim 3 wherein members are configured to allow variation in angle with respect to the boards.
5. 5. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims wherein the side is configured to provide a perforated boundary.
6. 6. Apparatus according to claim 5 wherein the boundary comprises perforations for targets.
7. 7. Apparatus according to claim 5 wherein the boundary comprises perforated netting.
8. 8. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims wherein a top bar joins the members in use.
9. 9. Apparatus according to claim 8 wherein a canopy joins top bars and covers the zone vertically in use.
10. 10. Apparatus according to claim 8 or 9 wherein the canopy is displaceable.
11. 11. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims including a displaceable display unit.
12. 12. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims including an impact sensor.
13. 13. Apparatus substantially as described herein with reference to the figures.
14. 14. A corner device for forming an apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, said device in use holding two orthogonal and substantially horizontal boards and one substantially vertical member; and wherein the boards' plane to horizontal is variable.
15. 15. A corner device according to claim 14 comprising a weighted body.
16. 16. A corner device according to claim 15 wherein the weighting is provided by a user in use.
17. 17. A corner device according to claim 14 to 16 including at least one retractable wheel for movement of the device.
18. 18. A device according to any of claims 14 to 17 comprising parallel board holders for holding a board's end.
19. 19. A device according to claim 18 comprising sprung pin and hole adjustment of the attitude of the holders.
20. 20. A corner device substantially as described herein with reference to figures 7.
21. 21. Apparatus substantially as described herein comprising a corner device according to any of claims 14 to 20.
22. 22. An impact sensor substantially as described herein for use with the apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 13 or 21, with reference to figure 8.