US20120046134A1 - Basketball shooting trainer device - Google Patents
Basketball shooting trainer device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20120046134A1 US20120046134A1 US13/214,655 US201113214655A US2012046134A1 US 20120046134 A1 US20120046134 A1 US 20120046134A1 US 201113214655 A US201113214655 A US 201113214655A US 2012046134 A1 US2012046134 A1 US 2012046134A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- bracket
- basketball
- elongated member
- trainer device
- shooting trainer
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
- A63B69/0071—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for basketball
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2209/00—Characteristics of used materials
- A63B2209/10—Characteristics of used materials with adhesive type surfaces, i.e. hook and loop-type fastener
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B63/00—Targets or goals for ball games
- A63B63/08—Targets or goals for ball games with substantially horizontal opening for ball, e.g. for basketball
- A63B63/083—Targets or goals for ball games with substantially horizontal opening for ball, e.g. for basketball for basketball
Abstract
A basketball shooting trainer device configured to attach to a basketball rim is provided and includes a bracket comprising at least one interior side wall defining a tubular cavity extending longitudinally through the bracket, wherein the tubular cavity has a diameter approximately equal to a diameter of the basketball rim, at least one cylindrically-shaped exterior side wall, wherein the exterior side wall has a diameter greater than the diameter of the tubular cavity. Also included is a flexibly-rigid elongated member attached to the bracket, wherein the elongated member includes an inner surface, an outer surface, and a base wherein the elongated member extends substantially vertically in a substantially perpendicular direction from a horizontal plane defined by the basketball rim. Further included is a base securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the inner surface of the base and the exterior wall of the bracket.
Description
- This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 12/760,885, filed on Apr. 15, 2010, by Alan J. Heystek et al., which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/170,844, filed on Apr. 20, 2009, by Alan J. Heystek et al., the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
- The present invention generally relates to a basketball shooting trainer device, and more particularly, a basketball shooting trainer device that is configured to attach to a basketball rim.
- Generally, training devices in an attempt to improve shooting accuracy of athletes in sporting events can include two types of shooting aids. Typically, the first type of shooting aid can deflect the ball away from the goal when it is improperly shot, so that only highly accurate shots score, and the second type shooting aid can provide additional visual targets for a player to aim and shoot at when shooting at the goal.
- According to one aspect of the present invention, a basketball shooting trainer device configured to attach to a basketball rim is provided and includes a bracket comprising at least one interior side wall defining a tubular cavity extending longitudinally through the bracket, wherein the tubular cavity has a diameter approximately equal to a diameter of the basketball rim, at least one cylindrically-shaped exterior side wall, wherein the exterior side wall has a diameter greater than the diameter of the tubular cavity. Also included is a flexibly-rigid elongated member attached to the bracket, wherein the elongated member includes an inner surface, an outer surface, and a base wherein the elongated member extends substantially vertically in a substantially perpendicular direction from a horizontal plane defined by the basketball rim. Further included is a base securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the inner surface of the base and the exterior wall of the bracket.
- According to another aspect of the present invention, a basketball shooting trainer device configured to attach to a basketball rim is provided and includes a bracket comprising at least one interior side wall defining a tubular cavity extending longitudinally through the bracket, wherein the tubular cavity has a diameter approximately equal to a diameter of the basketball rim, wherein the bracket is configured to removably and adjustably attach to the basketball rim, and at least one cylindrically-shaped exterior side wall, wherein the exterior side wall has a diameter greater than the diameter of the tubular cavity. Also included is a flexibly-rigid elongated member attached to the bracket, wherein the elongated member includes an inner surface, an outer surface, and a base wherein the elongated member extends substantially vertically in a substantially perpendicular direction from a horizontal plane defined by the basketball rim, wherein the elongated member is adapted to be in an original position, bend when at least a predetermined force is applied, and return to substantially the original position when the predetermined force is removed. Further included is a base securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the inner surface of the base and the exterior wall of the bracket. Yet further included is a retaining ring having an inner side and an outer side, wherein the retaining ring surroundingly wraps around the base and the bracket.
- According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a basketball shooting trainer device configured to attach to a basketball rim is provided and includes a bracket comprising at least one interior side wall defining a tubular cavity extending longitudinally through the bracket, wherein the tubular cavity has a diameter approximately equal to a diameter of the basketball rim, wherein the interior side wall includes a bracket securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the interior side wall and the basketball rim for securely attaching the bracket to the basketball rim, and at least one cylindrically-shaped exterior side wall, wherein the exterior side wall has a diameter greater than the diameter of the tubular cavity. Further included is a flexibly-rigid elongated member attached to the bracket, wherein the elongated member includes an inner surface, an outer surface, and a base wherein the elongated member extends substantially vertically in a substantially perpendicular direction from a horizontal plane defined by the basketball rim. Also included is a base securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the inner surface of the base and the exterior wall of the bracket. Yet further included is a plurality of retaining ring having an inner side and an outer side, wherein the retaining ring surroundingly wraps around the base and the bracket. The device also includes a first retaining ring securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the outer surface of the base and the inner side of each retaining ring and a second retaining ring securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the inner side of each retaining ring and the exterior wall of the bracket.
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FIG. 1 is an environmental view of a basketball shooting trainer device attached to a basketball rim, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is an environmental view of a basketball shooting trainer device attached to a basketball rim, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 3B is an environmental perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 3C is a side view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 3D is an exploded view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 4B is an environmental perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 4C is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 4D is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a basketball shooting training device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 5B is an environmental perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 5C is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 5D is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 6B is an environmental perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 6C is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 6D is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 7B is an environmental perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 7C is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 7D is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 8B is an environmental perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 8C is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 9B is an environmental perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 9C is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 9D is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 10B is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 10C is a perspective view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 10D is an elevational front view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 10E is a perspective exploded view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; and -
FIG. 10F is an elevational, side cross-sectional view of a basketball shooting trainer device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. - The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to a basketball shooting trainer device. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements.
- In this document, relational terms, such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like, are used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action, without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by “comprises . . . a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.
- With respect to
FIGS. 1-10F , a basketball shooting trainer device is generally shown atreference identifier 100. The basketballshooting trainer device 100 can be configured to attach to a basketball rim 101 (FIGS. 1 , 2, 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B, 7B, 8B, 9B, and 10F). The basketballshooting trainer device 100 can include a bracket generally indicated atreference identifier 102, and a flexibly-rigidelongated member 104. Thebracket 102 can include at least oneinterior side wall 106 that defines atubular cavity 108 extending longitudinally through thebracket 102, (FIGS. 3A-10F ). Typically, thetubular cavity 108 can have a diameter approximately (or substantially) equal to a diameter of thebasketball rim 101. The flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 attaches to thebracket 102, wherein the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 can extend substantially vertical with respect to the bracket's 102 normal operating position, as described in greater detail herein. - Thus, the basketball shooting
trainer device 100 can be securely attached to thebasketball rim 101, while the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 extends vertically upwards from thebasketball rim 101, according to one embodiment. In such an embodiment, the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 acts as a target for a shooter of a basketball, such that the shooter can shoot the basketball while aiming at the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104. Typically, if the shooter hits the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 with the basketball, the probability of the basketball going through the basketball rim 101 (i.e., making the shot) is substantially greater than the probability of the basketball going through thebasketball rim 101 if the basketball does not contact the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104. Therefore, by providing a target (e.g., the flexibly-rigid elongated member 104) that can be more easily viewed or aimed at by a shooter when the shooter is practicing a substantially similar shot from a basketball court (e.g., continuously shooting free throws), as compared to other portions of thebasketball rim 101, the shooter can mentally and biomechanically train themselves to shoot the basketball with substantially the same mechanics to increase their shooting accuracy and consistency. - By way of explanation and not limitation, in use, the basketball shooting
trainer device 100 can be attached to thebasketball rim 101. Generally, the basketball shootingtrainer device 100 is mounted substantially in a front-center of thebasketball rim 101, such that the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 is a target for the shooter, as described in greater detail herein, when the shooter is practicing a shot substantially in front of the basketball rim 101 (e.g., a free throw shot). It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the basketball shootingtrainer device 100 can be attached to other locations of thebasketball rim 101, such as, but not limited to, the side of thebasketball rim 101, so that the shooter can practice a shot from the side of the basketball rim 101 (e.g., a three point shot from the corner). Thus, the basketball shootingtrainer device 100 can be attached to any suitable portion of thebasketball rim 101 so as to provide a target for the shooter on the front or near side of thebasketball rim 101 with respect to the shooter's position on the basketball court, wherein the shooter is practicing (e.g., taking multiple shots) from substantially the same location on the basketball court. - The flexibly-rigid
elongated member 104 can be adapted to be in an original position (e.g., substantially vertical with respect to the bracket's 102 normal operating position), bent when at least a predetermined force is applied, and return to substantially the original position when the predetermined force is not applied or removed. Thus, the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 is flexible enough to bend when the predetermined force is applied (e.g., a basketball contacting the flexibly-rigid elongated member 104), but rigid so that the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 returns to the original position once the predetermined force is not applied, so that the shooter can use the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 for a target again. According to one embodiment, the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 is at least partially made by a material similar to a tape measure. According to alternate embodiments, the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 is at least partially made of a foam material, a rubber tubing material, a drinking straw material, a plastic composite, the like, or a combination thereof - By way of explanation and not limitation, the basketball shooting
trainer device 100 can be configured to attach to a five-eighths inch (5/8 in)diameter basketball rim 101, a double basketball rim 101 (e.g., a five-eighths inch (5/8 in)diameter basketball rim 101 having a one-half inch (½ in)basketball rim 101 attached to the underside), a SPAULDING™ basketball rim, a LIFETIME™ basketball rim, the like, or a combination thereof. The basketballshooting trainer device 100 can also be configured to attach tobasketball rims 101 having anet hook 109 centered on a front of thebasketball rim 101, anet hook 109 off-centered on a front of thebasketball rim 101, various shapes of net hooks, such as, but not limited to, a box-shaped net hook or a curvy-shaped net hook, the like, or a combination thereof - Additionally, or alternatively, the
interior side wall 106 can be a smooth or continuous surface, or theinterior side wall 106 can have one or more raised surfaces and/or notches or slits, such that theinterior side wall 106 can substantially conform to thebasketball rim 101. When thebasketball rim 101 contains anet hook 109, wherein thebracket 102 is attached to thenet hook 109, thenet hook 109 can enhance the stability of the basketball shootingtrainer device 100. Theinterior side wall 106 can be made of a secondary material that differs from the material used to form thebracket 102, a secondary material can be attached to theinterior side wall 106, the like, or a combination thereof, wherein the different or secondary material can be a rubber material such that theinterior side wall 106 adequately grips thebasketball rim 101. - According to one embodiment, the
bracket 102 is configured to be removably attached to thebasketball rim 101. Additionally or alternatively, thebracket 102 is configured to be adjustably attached to thebasketball rim 101. In an embodiment where thebracket 102 is configured to be removably attached to thebasketball rim 101, thebracket 102 is typically adapted to attach to various types ofbasketball rims 101, such as, but not limited to,basketball rims 101 having differentnet hook 109 locations, various diameters, additional components attached to the basketball rim 101 (e.g., a plurality ofnet hooks 109 formed by a single, continuous material extending circumferentially around the basketball rim 101), the like, or a combination thereof. Typically, thebracket 102 is configured to be attached to abasketball rim 101 having anet hook 109 in substantially a front-center position with respect to the basketball rim's 101 normal operating position, abasketball rim 101 having anet hook 109 that is off-center with respect to the basketball rim's 101 operating position, abasketball rim 101 having anet hook 109 that is off-center with respect to the basketball rim's 101 normal operating position, wherein thenet hook 109 is formed by a single, continuous material that extends circumferentially around thebasketball rim 101 forming a plurality ofnet hooks 109, the like, or a combination thereof. - The
bracket 102 can be removably, adjustably, or a combination thereof connected to thebasketball rim 101, such that the diameter of thecavity 108 is variable, according to one embodiment. Thebracket 102 can include an attachment device, such as, but not limited to, anut 110 andbolt 112, wherein the position of thenut 110 along thebolt 112 is altered to vary the diameter of thecavity 108. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that thebracket 102 can include additional or alternative components to be removably and/or adjustably attached to thebasketball rim 101, and/or vary the diameter of thecavity 108. According to an alternate embodiment, thebracket 102 can be configured to be permanently attached to thebasketball rim 101. - It should further be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the shape of the
tubular cavity 108 extending longitudinally through thebracket 102 is provided for purposes of explanation and not limitation, such that thecavity 108 can be defined to have other suitable shapes, thecavity 108 can extend through the bracket in other suitable directions, the like, or a combination thereof. According to one embodiment, thebracket 102 has a predetermined length, wherein due to the length, thecavity 108 has a curvature shape to conform to a curve along a circumference of thebasketball rim 101. - The attachment device can include a first hook and a
loop fastener strap 114A and a second hook andloop fastener strap 114B (e.g., VELCRO™) configured to extend circumferentially around thebracket 102, wherein the first hook andloop fastener strap 114A can extend circumferentially around thebracket 102 on an opposite side of the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 as the second hook andloop fastener strap 114B, according to one embodiment. Thus, the first and second hook and loop fastener straps 114A, 114B can dynamically alter a diameter of thecavity 108, such that the diameter of thecavity 108 can be approximately equal to the diameter of thebasketball rim 101 and thebracket 102 is adequately attached thereto. - According to one embodiment, the flexibly-rigid
elongated member 104 is removably attached to thebracket 102. In such an embodiment, the first flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 can be removed and replaced with a new or second flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 if the first flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 is damaged from use. Typically, the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 can be mechanically attached to thebracket 102, such as, but not limited to, a snap-fit connection, a nut and bolt connection, a hook and loop fastener (e.g., VELCRO™), a slide-press fit connection, tape, the like, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 can be permanently attached to thebracket 102, such as, but not limited to, the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 being integrated with thebracket 102, the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 being connected to thebracket 102 by one ormore rivet connectors 113, an adhesive connecting the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 to thebracket 102, the like, or a combination thereof - Typically, the flexibly-rigid
elongated member 104 can have a length of approximately three inches (3 in) to ten inches (10 in). According to one embodiment, the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 can have a length of approximately seven inches (7 in). The flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 can have a length that is adequate to provide a target for the shooter, while not being so long as to get caught by the back side of thebasketball rim 101 and/or a net 115 connected to thebasketball rim 101. However, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the basketball shootingtrainer device 100 can further include other devices which alter the position of the net 115 so that the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 does not get obstructed by the net 115. By way of explanation and not limitation, such devices can include ties that reposition the net 115 so that the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 can bend backwards through thebasketball rim 101 when the predetermined force is applied to the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 without contacting or getting caught in the net 115. - According to one alternate embodiment, the flexibly-rigid
elongated member 104 can have an archical shape, rather than extending substantially vertical from thebracket 102, such that the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 arches towards the opposite side of thebasketball rim 101 to extend over the area where the basketball passes through thebasketball rim 101. - According to one embodiment, a length of the
bracket 102 can be greater than a distance between twonet hooks 109 of thebasketball rim 101 when thenet hooks 109 are off-centered to the basketball rim's 101 normal operating position. Thus, thebracket 102 can extend around at least a portion of bothnet hooks 109, which can reduce movement of the basketball shootingtrainer device 100 when it is contacted by an external force (e.g., the basketball at least partially contacting the bracket 102). - With respect to an embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 2-3D , thebracket 102 can be configured to attach to thebasketball rim 101 in a location that includes anet hook 109 or does not include anet hook 109. Thebracket 102 can be formed of a moldable material that can have some flexibility to allow for an altering of the diameter of thecavity 108 based upon the positioning of thenut 110 with respect to thebolt 112. - In regards to an embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 4A-4D , thebracket 102 can have thecavity 108 with a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of thebasketball rim 101 such that thebracket 102 is press-fitted with thebasketball rim 101. Thebracket 102 can include one ormore apertures 116 that can be used with a portion of thebasketball rim 101, an attachment device, or a combination thereof, to adequately secure thebracket 102 to thebasketball rim 101. Thus, the one ormore apertures 116 can be adapted to receive a hook and loop fastener (e.g., VELCRO™) strap. In such an embodiment, thebracket 102 can be made of a moldable material. Typically, thebracket 102 can have a length, such that thebracket 102 forms a curve that corresponds to an arc of thebasketball rim 101. Additionally or alternatively, thebracket 102 can have a length greater than a distance between twonet hooks 109, such that thebracket 102 can be configured to attach to thebasketball rim 101 in a location that includes at least onenet hook 109. - As to an embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 5A-5D , the basketball shootingtrainer device 100 can include abracket 102 that defines thecavity 108 having a diameter that is substantially equal to thebasketball rim 101, such that thebracket 102 press-fits to thebasketball rim 101. In such an embodiment, thebracket 102 can be made of a moldable material. Thebracket 102 can include one ormore flanges 118 that can be used to provide one or more surface areas for assisting a user when attaching or removing thebracket 102 to thebasketball rim 101. Typically, thebracket 102 can have a length, such that thebracket 102 has a curve that corresponds to an arc of thebasketball rim 101. Additionally or alternatively, thebracket 102 can have a length greater than a distance between twonet hooks 109, such that thebracket 102 can be configured to attach to thebasketball rim 101 in a location that includes at least onenet hook 109. - With respect to an embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 6A-6D , the basketball shootingtrainer device 100 can include thebracket 102 that defines thecavity 108 having a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of thebasketball rim 101, such that thebracket 102 is press-fitted to thebasketball rim 101. Thebracket 102 can includeflanges 118′ that can be used to provide surface area for assisting a user when the user is attaching or removing thebracket 102 to thebasketball rim 101. In such an embodiment, thebracket 102 can be made of a moldable material. Typically thebracket 102 can have a length, such that abracket 102 has a curvature that corresponds to an arc of thebasketball rim 101. Additionally or alternatively, thebracket 102 can have a length greater than a distance between twonet hooks 109, such that thebracket 102 can be configured to attach to thebasketball rim 101 in a location that includes at least onenet hook 109. - In regards to an embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 7A-7D , the basketball shootingtrainer device 100 can include thebracket 102 configured to attach to thebasketball rim 101, wherein anet hook 109 is substantially centered on a front portion of thebasketball rim 101 with respect to the basketball rim's 101 normal operating position. In such an embodiment, thecavity 108 has anet hook area 120 configured to receive thenet hook 109 of thebasketball rim 101 during attachment of thebracket 102 to thebasketball rim 101. Further, thebracket 102 can include one ormore flanges 118″, which can be configured to provide surface area, such that a user can utilize theflanges 118″ when attaching or removing thebracket 102 to thebasketball rim 101. Typically, thebracket 102 can have a length, such that thebracket 102 has a curve that corresponds to an arc of thebasketball rim 101. - As to an embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 8A-8C , thebracket 102 can be placed over thebasketball rim 101, and a first hook andloop fastener strap 114A′ can be used to alter a diameter of thecavity 108 of thebracket 102. In such an embodiment, thebracket 102 can be attached to the net 115, thenet hook 109 on thebasketball rim 101, or a combination thereof, to reduce movement of thebracket 102, when an external force is applied to thebracket 102. - In regards to an embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 9A-9D , thebracket 102 can be made of a flexibly tubular material that is configured to extend around thebasketball rim 101 when thebracket 102 is attached to thebasketball rim 101. Thus, thebracket 102 can be made of a moldable material. The first and second hook and loop fastener straps 114A, 114B can be used to dynamically alter a diameter of thecavity 108 to attach thebracket 102 to thebasketball rim 101. Typically, thebracket 102 has alongitudinally extending slit 122 that is adapted to fit thebracket 102 over thebasketball rim 101, and alter a diameter of thecavity 108, such that the diameter of thecavity 108 is substantially equal to the diameter of thebasketball rim 108. - In regards to an embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 10A-10F , thebracket 102 may be made of a flexibly tubular material that is configured to extend around thebasketball rim 101 when thebracket 102 is attached to thebasketball rim 101, as disclosed above with respect to the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 9A-9D . Thebasketball rim 101 and theinterior side wall 106 that defines thetubular cavity 108 may include hook and loop fasteners (e.g., VELCRO™) to strengthen the attachment of thebracket 102 to thebasketball rim 101 and also prevent slipping and/or twisting of thebracket 102. Additionally, the exterior side wall of the bracket may include at one or more locations hook and loop fasteners (e.g., VELCRO™). The flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 includes abase section 150 that extends substantially perpendicular to the portion of the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 that is substantially vertically aligned. Thebase section 150 includes afirst surface 152 and an opposingsecond surface 154 that each include an additional hook and loop fastener (e.g., VELCRO™)surface 160 that engagably secures the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 to thebracket 102. To further ensure a secure attachment of the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 to thebracket 102 and thebasketball rim 101, the first and second hook and loop fastener straps 114A, 114B can be used to loop around thebase section 150 of the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104. - The above-described configuration of the embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 10A-10F provides a user the ability to reverse the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 by simply removing the first and second hook and loop fastener straps 114A, 114B, turning the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 180° about a vertical axis and attaching thesecond surface 154 of thebase section 150 to thebracket 102, then reapplying the first and second hook and loop fastener straps 114A, 114B. Periodically reversing the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 in the manner described above prolongs the life cycle of the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 by preventing gradual bending of the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 due to repeated contact with the basketball during free throw training Optionally, the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 may be attached to thebracket 102 at an inner portion of thebasketball rim 101. The flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 may taper in width and/or depth in order to provide resiliency properties that facilitate longer continued use of the basketball shootingtrainer device 100. Proximate thebase section 150 of the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104, the width of themember 104 may range from approximately one-fourth (¼) an inch to approximately one (1.0) inch, while the depth may range from approximately one-half (½) an inch to approximately two (2.0) inches. The height of the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 may range from approximately three (3.0) inches to approximately ten (10) inches. - Advantageously, the basketball shooting
trainer device 100 attaches to thebasketball rim 101 so that the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 provides a stationary target for a shooter, such that the probability of the basketball going through thebasketball rim 101 is increased when the shooter is able to contact the basketball with the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104 as compared to when the shooter is unable to contact the basketball with the flexibly-rigidelongated member 104. Further, the basketball shootingtrainer device 100 typically attaches to a front portion of thebasketball rim 101 with respect to the shooter, and thus, muscle memory can be developed to shoot a basketball straight (e.g., in-line with the elongated flexible member 104) at a desired distance, as opposed to a device on another portion of the basketball rim 101 (e.g., a rear portion) that may develop muscle memory for shooting the ball at a greater distance than desired (e.g., the ball contacting a rear portion of thebasketball rim 101 or backboard) and missing the shot. Typically, the basketball shootingtrainer device 100 is used by the shooter when practicing free-throws, but it should be appreciated that the basketball shootingtrainer device 100 can be attached to other portions of thebasketball rim 101 so that the shooter can practice other shots, wherein the shooter is substantially shooting from the same place on the basketball court. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the basketball shootingtrainer device 100 may include additional or alternative advantages. It should further be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the components or elements of the basketball shootingtrainer device 100 may be combined in additional or alternative ways not explicitly described herein. - Modifications of the invention will occur to those skilled in the art and to those who make or use the invention. Therefore, it is understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above are merely for illustrative purposes and not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the following claims as interpreted according to the principles of patent law, including the doctrine of equivalents.
Claims (20)
1. A basketball shooting trainer device configured to attach to a basketball rim, the basketball shooting trainer device comprising:
a bracket comprising:
at least one interior side wall defining a tubular cavity extending longitudinally through the bracket, wherein the tubular cavity has a diameter approximately equal to a diameter of the basketball rim; and
at least one cylindrically-shaped exterior side wall, wherein the exterior side wall has a diameter greater than the diameter of the tubular cavity;
a flexibly-rigid elongated member attached to the bracket, wherein the elongated member includes, an inner surface, an outer surface, and a base wherein the elongated member extends substantially vertically in a substantially perpendicular direction from a horizontal plane defined by the basketball rim; and
a base securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the inner surface of the base and the exterior wall of the bracket.
2. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 1 , wherein the interior side wall includes a bracket securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the interior side wall and the basketball rim for securely attaching the bracket to the basketball rim.
3. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 1 , further comprising:
a retaining ring having an inner side and an outer side, wherein the retaining ring surroundingly wraps around the base and the bracket;
a first retaining ring securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the outer surface of the base and the inner side of the retaining ring; and
a second retaining ring securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the inner side of the retaining ring and the exterior wall of the bracket.
4. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 1 , wherein the basketball shooting trainer device comprises a plurality of retaining rings.
5. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 1 , wherein the bracket is approximately three (3) inches to ten (10) inches long.
6. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 1 , wherein the bracket is approximately seven-and-a-half (7.5) inches long.
7. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 1 , wherein the elongated member is approximately five (5) inches to seven (7) inches long, wherein the elongated member is approximately one-fourth (¼) an inch to two (2) inches wide, and wherein the elongated member is approximately one-half (½) an inch to two (2) inches thick.
8. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 7 , wherein the thickness of the elongated member at a top point is less than the thickness of the elongated member at a lower point.
9. The basketball shooting strainer device of claim 1 , wherein the elongated member is adapted to be in an original position, bend when at least a predetermined force is applied, and return to substantially the original position when the predetermined force is removed.
10. A basketball shooting trainer device configured to attach to a basketball rim, the basketball shooting trainer device comprising:
a bracket comprising:
at least one interior side wall defining a tubular cavity extending longitudinally through the bracket, wherein the tubular cavity has a diameter approximately equal to a diameter of the basketball rim, wherein the bracket is configured to removably and adjustably attach to the basketball rim; and
at least one cylindrically-shaped exterior side wall, wherein the exterior side wall has a diameter greater than the diameter of the tubular cavity;
a flexibly-rigid elongated member attached to the bracket, wherein the elongated member includes an inner surface, an outer surface, and a base wherein the elongated member extends substantially vertically in a substantially perpendicular direction from a horizontal plane defined by the basketball rim, wherein the elongated member is adapted to be in an original position, bend when at least a predetermined force is applied, and return to substantially the original position when the predetermined force is removed;
a base securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the inner surface of the base and the exterior wall of the bracket; and
a retaining ring having an inner side and an outer side, wherein the retaining ring surroundingly wraps around the base and the bracket.
11. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 10 , wherein the interior side wall includes a bracket securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the interior side wall and the basketball rim for securely attaching the bracket to the basketball rim.
12. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 10 , further comprising:
a first retaining ring securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the outer surface of the base and the inner side of the retaining ring; and
a second retaining ring securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the inner side of the retaining ring and the exterior wall of the bracket.
13. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 10 , wherein the basketball shooting trainer device comprises a plurality of retaining rings.
14. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 10 , wherein the bracket is approximately three (3) inches to ten (10) inches long.
15. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 10 , wherein the bracket is approximately seven-and-a-half (7.5) inches long.
16. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 10 , wherein the elongated member is approximately five (5) inches to seven (7) inches long, wherein the elongated member is approximately one-fourth (¼) an inch to two (2) inches wide, and wherein the elongated member is approximately one-half (½) an inch to two (2) inches thick.
17. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 16 , wherein the thickness of the elongated member at a top point is less than the thickness of the elongated member at a lower point.
18. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 10 , wherein the elongated member is adapted to be in an original position, bend when at least a predetermined force is applied, and return to substantially the original position when the predetermined force is removed.
19. A basketball shooting trainer device configured to attach to a basketball rim, the basketball shooting trainer device comprising:
a bracket comprising:
at least one interior side wall defining a tubular cavity extending longitudinally through the bracket, wherein the tubular cavity has a diameter approximately equal to a diameter of the basketball rim, wherein the interior side wall includes a bracket securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the interior side wall and the basketball rim for securely attaching the bracket to the basketball rim; and
at least one cylindrically-shaped exterior side wall, wherein the exterior side wall has a diameter greater than the diameter of the tubular cavity;
a flexibly-rigid elongated member attached to the bracket, wherein the elongated member includes an inner surface, an outer surface, and a base wherein the elongated member extends substantially vertically in a substantially perpendicular direction from a horizontal plane defined by the basketball rim;
a base securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the inner surface of the base and the exterior wall of the bracket;
a plurality of retaining rings having an inner side and an outer side, wherein the retaining rings surroundingly wraps around the base and the bracket;
a first retaining ring securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the outer surface of the base and the inner side of each retaining ring; and
a second retaining ring securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the inner side of each retaining ring and the exterior wall of the bracket.
20. The basketball shooting trainer device of claim 19 , wherein the bracket is approximately seven-and-a-half (7.5) inches long, wherein the elongated member is approximately five (5) inches to seven (7) inches long, wherein the elongated member is approximately one-fourth (¼) an inch to two (2) inches wide, and wherein the elongated member is approximately one-half (½) an inch to two (2) inches thick.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/214,655 US20120046134A1 (en) | 2009-04-20 | 2011-08-22 | Basketball shooting trainer device |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US17084409P | 2009-04-20 | 2009-04-20 | |
US12/760,885 US20100267495A1 (en) | 2009-04-20 | 2010-04-15 | Basketball Shooting Trainer Device |
US13/214,655 US20120046134A1 (en) | 2009-04-20 | 2011-08-22 | Basketball shooting trainer device |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/760,885 Continuation-In-Part US20100267495A1 (en) | 2009-04-20 | 2010-04-15 | Basketball Shooting Trainer Device |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20120046134A1 true US20120046134A1 (en) | 2012-02-23 |
Family
ID=45594508
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/214,655 Abandoned US20120046134A1 (en) | 2009-04-20 | 2011-08-22 | Basketball shooting trainer device |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20120046134A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8197362B1 (en) * | 2010-09-21 | 2012-06-12 | Joe Johnson | Basketball free throw practice guide |
Citations (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20040043841A1 (en) * | 2002-08-27 | 2004-03-04 | Williams Jay T. | Basketball training aid |
-
2011
- 2011-08-22 US US13/214,655 patent/US20120046134A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20040043841A1 (en) * | 2002-08-27 | 2004-03-04 | Williams Jay T. | Basketball training aid |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8197362B1 (en) * | 2010-09-21 | 2012-06-12 | Joe Johnson | Basketball free throw practice guide |
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Owner name: HEYSTEK & ATWOOD, LLC, MICHIGAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:HEYSTEK, ALAN J.;ATWOOD, ANDY D.;REEL/FRAME:027209/0610 Effective date: 20111018 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |