US20130296080A1

US20130296080A1 - Baseball and Softball Bat Swinging Trainer

Info

Publication number: US20130296080A1
Application number: US13/868,211
Authority: US
Inventors: Deborah Sofka
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2012-05-01
Filing date: 2013-04-23
Publication date: 2013-11-07

Abstract

Disclosed is a new and improved baseball and softball bat swinging trainer, comprising a flexible or rigid pole that is anchored to a horizontal surface, and a plurality of colored target flaps extending therefrom. The target flaps are pivotably mounted to the pole and are independently movable between a first and second position. The device can be adjusted so that the flaps are positioned in the strike zone of the batter. The colored target flap rotates as it is struck, indicating that the target was properly hit. A player can be instructed to swing at a particular colored flap, which helps him or her to learn hand-eye coordination and proper bat control when swinging a baseball or softball bat.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/641,000 filed on May 1, 2012, entitled “Hit Level”. The above identified patent application is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety to provide continuity of disclosure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an athletic training device. More particularly, it pertains to a baseball and softball bat swinging trainer for improving hand-eye coordination and proper bat control.
Perfecting the baseball swing is the goal of millions of people throughout the world. From little league players up to major league baseball and professional softball players, countless hours have been spent developing swing technique. As can be appreciated, most coaches break a baseball swing down into three components: (1) stance, (2) weight shift, and (3) forward swing. While each of these phases require years of practice, the actual movement of the bat is one of the most difficult components to master.
While there are many styles and techniques that can be used when batting, certain fundamentals must be learned in order to make proper contact with the baseball. One of the most important fundamentals is for a batter to be able to swing with accuracy. It is generally accepted that an ideal pitch for a batter is one that is within the strike zone, which is generally denoted as being in the chest high to waist high area. A pitch that is thrown in this area allows a batter to obtain a bat swing angle that is between 90-35 degrees, which is characterized as a level swing. A batter who is able to achieve a level swing in the strike zone has a much higher chance of making solid contact with the ball.
Many baseball and softball players, particularly those who are new to the sport, believe that a pitch that is not “right down the middle,” and does not allow for a 90 degree swing angle, is not an ideal pitch. Because of this, when a novice gets a pitch that requires between a 45-35 degree swing angle, he or she may be uncomfortable swinging, believing that these pitches require various bat angles that he or she believes are too difficult to hit. As such, the batter will not swing at a ball that is thrown at the top or bottom of the strike zone.
To properly hit a ball that is thrown in the strike zone, particularly in the top or bottom, a batter must learn proper bat control. This helps to develop a swing that enables a batter to swing the bat through the hitting zone at various angles in order to make contact with different types of pitches, regardless of where it is thrown within the strike zone. The present invention provides a training tool that teaches a batter the fundamentals of swinging at different heights within the strike zone. The device provides colored target flaps that can be struck with the bat for improving hand-eye coordination and proper bat control.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Devices have been disclosed in the prior art that relate to athletic training devices. These include devices that have been patented and published in patent application publications. These devices generally relate to batting practice aids for teaching proper swing mechanics. The following is a list of devices deemed most relevant to the present disclosure, which are herein described for the purposes of highlighting and differentiating the unique aspects of the present invention, and further highlighting the drawbacks existing in the prior art.
Specifically, U.S. Pat. No. 4,516,771 to Nau discloses a batting practice device for aiding a batsman to perfect a level swing, comprising a pair of elongated, vertically spaced, inclined tubular arms that are mounted at their inner ends on a mounting plate. The arms provide an unobstructed, substantially horizontal target area for passage of a bat therebetween during a practice swing. An adjustment assembly is also provided for raising and lowering the mounting plate to vary the height of the arms relative to the strike zone. The Nau device teaches a batter to swing through a stationary horizontal target. This device does not utilize multiple rotating targets that enable a batter to swing at targets of differing height within a strike zone.
Similar to the '771 patent, Bradley, U.S. Pat. No. 6,435,990 discloses a training device for improving the batting skills, comprising of two parallel bars that are held apart by a pair of U-shaped arms, such that an open space is created between the parallel bars. The arms space the parallel bars apart sufficiently to create an open space between the arms through which a swung baseball bat can slide. The interior facing surfaces of the bars each have a series of rubber or plastic teeth that protrude therefrom, which function to prevent damage to the bat when it is swung, and to cushion the impact on the student's hands if the swing is not level. This device, similar to the Nau patent, does not provide for learning to swing at targets of differing height within a strike zone. Instead, the Bradley patent teaches a batter to swing only at one location. The present invention teaches a batter to swing at the top, bottom, and middle of the strike zone.
Taylor, U.S. Pat. No. 7,300,365, discloses 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. The assembly further comprises a fastening member for connecting to a support; and an extension member connected to the fastening member. The extension member comprises at least two arms defining a training zone, wherein the angle of at least one arm relative to said support is adjustable. As with the Nau and Bradley patents, the Taylor device provides a pair of parallel bars for a batter to swing therethrough. The '365 patent focuses on swinging the bat through a fixed plane, whereas the present invention utilizes multiple targets set at different heights for varying the swing angle through the hitting zone in order to make contact with different types of pitches.
Constant, U.S. Pat. No. 7,955,196 discloses an apparatus and method for teaching a batter to swing a bat in a premeditated plane to and through an invisible target that simulates the point of contact where a round bat will meet and greet a round ball squarely. The device comprises a batter's training tool that teaches a batter to swing a bat with finesse, confidence, accuracy, speed and strength. Through repeated practice, the batter becomes physically and psychologically habituated to maintain the correct swing form for improved contact. The '196 patent provides a pair of targets that are mounted one in front of the other for teaching a level swing. The present invention, however, discloses a flexible pole that is anchored in the ground, and includes several colored rotating target flaps extending therefrom.
In addition to devices specifically designed for teaching bat control, other devices exist in the prior art that include rotating flaps that extend from a vertical pole. These devices, however, are designed for measuring vertical jumping ability, and are not adapted for use with a baseball bat to teach proper swing angle. Specifically, U.S. Pat. No. 5,031,903 to Clarke discloses a vertical jump testing device comprising a plurality of vertically arranged measuring elements each pivotally mounted on a vertically disposed mounting member and independently movable between a first and second position to measure the vertical leaping ability of an athlete as the athlete strikes and angularly displaces one or more of the plurality of vertically arranged elements from the first position to the second position, and a reset mechanism to reset the angularly displaced, vertically arranged elements from the second position to the first position. The Clarke device, however, is designed to be placed at a height off of the ground for measuring vertical leaping ability, and includes colored targets that are not properly sized or designed to be struck by a baseball bat.
Similar to the Clarke device, U.S. Pat. No. 7,530,925 to Underwood discloses a portable jump training apparatus that permits an athlete to safely measure their vertical leap. The portable jump training apparatus includes a jump measurement device, a height adjustment post, and an external surface mount. The height adjustment post may be joined to the jump measurement device such that they are positionally fixed with respect to one another. Also, the external surface mount may include a translation guide configured for translational cooperation with the height adjustment post such that the position of the jump measurement device may be adjusted with respect to the stationary external surface mount. The Underwood device, while disclosing a device that includes rotating vertical members, does not disclose the structure and intent of the present invention. The present invention provides a number of flaps that are of a suitable size to be struck independently with a baseball or softball bat, and are placed generally in the chest to waist high area of a batter.
In light of the prior art and the disclosed elements of the present invention, it is submitted that the present invention substantially diverges in design elements from the prior art. Consequently, it is clear that that present invention is not described by the art, and that a need exists for an improved baseball and softball bat swinging trainer. In this regard, the instant invention substantially fulfills these needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types of baseball and softball swinging trainers now present in the prior art, the present invention provides a new baseball and softball swinging trainer wherein the same can be utilized for providing convenience for the user when improving hand eye coordination and proper bat control.
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a new and improved baseball and softball swinging trainer device that has all of the advantages of the prior art and none of the disadvantages.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a new and improved baseball and softball swinging trainer device that includes a flexible pole that is anchored in the ground, along with a plurality colored target flaps extending therefrom.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved baseball and softball swinging trainer device that can be adjusted for placement generally in the chest to waist high area of a batter.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved baseball and softball swinging trainer device, wherein the colored flap rotates as it is struck, indicating that the target was properly hit, thereby facilitating the development of hand eye coordination and proper bat control.
A final object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved baseball and softball swinging trainer device that may be readily fabricated from materials that permit relative economy and are commensurate with durability.
Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

Although the characteristic features of this invention will be particularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself and manner in which it may be made and used may be better understood after a review of the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein like numeral annotations are provided throughout.

FIG. 1 shows a view of the present invention, with freely rotating target flaps.

FIG. 2 shows a view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention, wherein the target flaps are attached to the pole and prevented from rotating.

FIG. 3 a shows a close-up view of an embodiment of the target flap, wherein the attachment means completely encircles the pole.

FIG. 3 b shows a close-up view of an embodiment of the target flap, wherein the attachment means comprises a C-clip that is removably attached to the pole.

FIG. 3 c shows a close-up view of an embodiment of the target flap, wherein the attachment means completely encircles the pole and includes an aperture for accepting a fastener.

FIG. 4 shows a view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention, wherein the target flap contains an aperture to allow a tab attached to the pole to pass therethrough.

FIG. 5 shows an overhead view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention, wherein the target flap attaches to the pole with a spring.

FIG. 6 shows a view of the present invention in use with a player swinging at a middle target flap.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference is made herein to the attached drawings. Like reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to depict like or similar elements of the new and improved baseball and softball swinging trainer device. For the purposes of presenting a brief and clear description of the present invention, the preferred embodiment will be discussed as used for improving hand eye coordination, and proper bat control. The figures are intended for representative purposes only and should not be considered to be limiting in any respect.
Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown a view of the present invention, wherein the device comprises a flexible pole 11 that is anchored in the ground, and a plurality of colored target flaps 12, 13, 14, 15 extending therefrom. The target flaps 12, 13, 14, 15 are pivotably mounted to the pole 11, and are independently movable between a first and second position when struck by a bat. The flaps 12, 13, 14, rotate when struck, thereby indicating that the target was properly hit. The flaps 12, 13, 14, 15 are held in position with a plurality of retainers 16 that are positioned at the top and bottom thereof.
The flexible pole 11 is designed to be mounted into the ground to provide stability thereto when in use. The pole 11 is constructed from a flexible material that prevents damage thereto from repeated bat strikes. Preferably, the pole is constructed from a flexible plastic, or another suitable material. The terminal end of the pole 11 is pointed 17, allowing it to be used as a ground stake. Alternately, the terminal end of the pole 11 can include a variety of means for attachment to the ground. A multi-prong stake, and a weighted base that rests on a ground surface are also contemplated. This securely holds the device in place when being hit with a baseball or softball bat, which prevents the device from being removed from its position.
The pole 11 is designed for placement whereby the flaps 12, 13, 14, 15 are positioned between the waist and chest height of the batter. As can be appreciated, this enables the device to be utilized in the area that is generally referred to as the strike zone. This is accomplished with the use of a height adjustable pole. In the preferred embodiment, the base of the pole 11 can telescope. Alternately, a one-piece pole can be utilized, wherein the height of the flaps 12, 13, 14, 15 can be adjusted by placing the pointed end 17 further into the ground. The height adjustability enables users of differing heights to raise and lower the device in order to practice swinging within the strike zone. The pole 11 further includes a joint 18 in the middle thereof that enables the pole 11 to be broken down into two sections for transport. This allows the device to be conveniently stored and transported. At the base of the pole 11 is a weighted ground support 19 that provides additional support thereto. The ground support 19 slidably attaches to the pole, and can be raised and lowered as desired for altering the height of the device. Once properly positioned, the ground support prevents the pole 11 from sinking into soft or loose ground, thereby ensuring that the flaps 12, 13, 14, 15 are at the proper height.
The flaps 12, 13, 14, 15 are positioned one on top of another, and are independently movable between a first and second position when struck by a bat. A retainer 16 is positioned at the top and bottom of each flap 12, 13, 14, 15, which provides a sufficient amount of separation between each flap 12, 13, 14, 15 for independent movement thereof. The retainer 16 is preferably a molded extension of the pole 11 that mates with the top and bottom of each flap 12, 13, 14, 15. The retainer 16 provides a sufficient amount of space between each flap 12, 13, 14, 15 so that a bat making contact therewith can pass through without striking any of the other flaps 12, 13, 14, 15.
The flap 12, 13, 14, 15 is designed to be struck by a baseball bat, thereby providing a target for practicing swing mechanics. It is formed in a substantially rectangular configuration, and has a width that allows for striking with a baseball or softball bat. Preferably, the width of the flap 12, 13, 14, 15 is equal to the diameter of a conventional baseball, which is 73.0-76.0 mm in diameter. Alternatively, the flap 12, 13, 14, 15 can be equal to the diameter of a conventional softball, which is 88.9-96.5 mm in diameter. This provides a device that enables a player to practice swinging at a realistic sized target. The target flap 12, 13, 14, 15 further includes a length that enables a player to swing at the device without making contact with the pole. Preferably, a player stands at a distance away from the flap 12, 13, 14, 15 whereby the distal end of the bat will make contact therewith. This helps to prevent the bat from making contact with the pole, which would otherwise prevent proper rotation of the flap 12.
Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown a view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention, wherein the target flaps are attached to the pole and prevented from rotating. In this embodiment, the flaps 12, 13, 14, 15 are formed as a part of the pole 11, which prevents rotation thereof. Instead of freely rotating around the pole 11, the flaps 12, 13, 14, 15 are constructed of a material that enables flexing thereof when struck with a bat. As a player makes contact with the flap 12, 13, 14, 15, the bat causes the flap to flex away from the bat, so that the bat can continue on its path of rotation. Once the flap 12, 13, 14, 15 absorbs the kinetic energy from the bat and ceases to flex away therefrom, it will return to its original position. This prevents the player from having to reset the flaps 12, 13, 14, 15 after each strike, thereby enabling repeated hitting.
In order to prevent the pole 11 from rotating, the pole 11 preferably includes a multi-prong stake 20 attached to the bottom thereof. The stake 20 causes the pole 11 to remain in the same position after the flap 12, 13, 14, 15 has been struck with the bat, which prevents the entire apparatus from rotating out of position.
The flap 12 additionally includes an attachment means for securing the device to the pole. As shown in FIG. 3 a, the attachment means can comprise an annular ring 22 with an aperture 21 in the middle thereof that completely encircles the pole. In this embodiment, the annular ring 22 forms a sleeve that allows the flap 12 to be slidably positioned on the pole, and enables the flap 12 to freely rotate around the pole. The retainer is positioned between each flap 12, which holds it in position on the pole.
In a first alternate embodiment, the attachment means enables the flap 12 to be removably attached to the pole. As shown in FIG. 3 b, the attachment means can comprise a C-clip 23 that is removably attached to the pole. The C-clip 23 is a fastener consisting of a semi-flexible ring with an open end that can be snapped into place around the pole. The C-clip 23 is constructed of a size that allows it to mate with the pole, creating a secure connection therebetween. Preferably, the C-clip 23 fits snugly against the pole, which helps to prevent inadvertent rotation thereof. This is particularly beneficial when practicing in high wind conditions, whereby the wind would otherwise cause the flap 12 to rotate before being struck. This also helps to slow the rotation of the flap 12 after being struck with the bat.
In a second alternate embodiment, the attachment means enables the flap 12 to attach to the pole with a fastener. As shown in FIG. 3 c, the attachment means can comprise an annular ring 22 with an aperture 21 in the middle thereof that completely encircles the pole. Additionally, the flap 12 can include at least one horizontally positioned aperture 24. This enables the flap 12 to accept a fastener for attachment of the flap 12 to the pole. This prevents rotation of the flap 12 around the pole, thereby causing the flap 12 to flex and return to its original position as it is struck.
Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown a view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention, wherein the target flap contains an aperture to allow a tab attached to the pole to pass therethrough. In this embodiment, the pole 11 contains a flexible tab 25 extending therefrom at a 90 degree angle, which acts as a stop for the flap 12. Here, the attachment means for the flap 12 secures above and below the tab 25, and includes an aperture 26 in the middle there of that creates a bifurcated sleeve 27. The aperture 26 enables the flap 12 to rotate around the pole 11 and tab 25. The tab 25 extends beyond the aperture 26 so that the flap 12 makes contact therewith. This prevents the flap 12 from freely rotating around the pole 11. The flap 11 can be positioned so that a first side rests on the tab 25. If the flap 12 is struck with a bat, it will rotate around the pole 11 until the second side of the flap 12 makes contact with the tab 25. This has the added benefit of preventing the flap 12 from freely rotating and stopping at a position that would require the player to reset the device for hitting. Once the flap 12 rotates around the pole 11 and makes contact with the tab 25, it can be struck again. Because the tab 25 is constructed of a flexible material, the flap 12 can rotate past the tab 25 if the flap 12 is struck with a sufficient amount of force. This enables the first side of the flap 12 to pass over the tab 25, rotate around the pole 11, and come to rest with the first side of the flap 12 making contact with the tab 25 once again.
Referring now to FIG. 5, there is shown an overhead view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention, wherein the target flap 12 attaches to the pole 11 with a spring 28. The attachment means for the flap 12 can include a means of returning the flap 12 to its original position after being struck with a bat. Preferably, this is accomplished with a helical torsion spring 28 that works by twisting. The spring 28 stores mechanical energy from the flap 12 when it is twisted about the axis of the pole 11, which occurs when the flap 12 is struck by a bat. When the spring 28 is twisted, it tightens the coil by sideways forces. Once the coil has been tightened to the point where it has stored the energy from the hit, the spring 28 then uncoils in the opposite direction, and eventually rests at its original position. This enables the player to repeatedly strike the flap 12 and have it automatically return to its original position.
Referring now to FIG. 6, there is shown a view of the present invention in use with a player swinging at a middle target flap 13. The flaps 12, 13, 14, 15 are preferably created in a variety of colors, such as red, blue, green, and yellow. This enables a coach to call out a particular color for a player to aim at when swinging. In operation, a user can place the pole 11 into the ground, and adjust the device so that the flaps 12, 13, 14, 15 are at an appropriate height. The player can then stand at an appropriate distance from the flaps 12, 13, 14, 15 so that the distal end of the bat 31 makes contact with the distal end of the flaps 12, 13, 14, 15.
A player can be instructed to swing at a particular colored flap, which helps him or her to learn hand-eye coordination when swinging a baseball bat. A coach can call out a color that corresponds to a flap 12, 13, 14, 15. This requires the player to quickly react to the instructions, and swing at the appropriate flap 12, 13, 14, 15. The colored flap 13 flexes as it is struck, indicating that the target was properly hit. If the player swings properly and only makes contact with the desired flap 13, the remaining flaps 12, 14, 15 will not move, thereby indicating that the proper technique was used. If more than one flap 12, 13, 14, 15 flexes, this will alert the player and coach that the swing missed the target.
The present invention can also be used to increase speed when swinging in the strike zone. A coach can rapidly shout out which color players should hit to practice targeting different flaps. As an example, a coach can call out blue, thereby instructing the player to swing only at the blue flap. Once the player makes contact with the blue flap, he or she can return to the batting position and await another instruction from his or her coach. The coach can then call out red, and the player will then swing at the red flap. The process can be repeated as many times as desired.
Overall, the present invention provides a device that develops proper baseball and softball swing mechanics. The device can be quickly set up in a desired location for practice. The colored flap rotates as it is struck, indicating that the target was properly hit. This provides baseball players and softball players of all ages with a way to practice level swings and to improve their eye-hand coordination. The device can also be used to teach softball players and baseball players to keep their eyes on the ball, to follow through, and to place balls in certain areas of the field when hitting. Players can also work on keeping their head still, and bringing the bat to where their eyes are looking.
It is therefore submitted that the instant invention has been shown and described in what is considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made within the scope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized 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. 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.

Claims

I claim:

1) A batting device, comprising:

A flexible pole that is anchored to a horizontal surface;

at least one target flap being pivotably mounted to said pole and being independently movable between a first and second position;

and an attachment means for attaching said target flap to said pole.

2) The device of claim 1, wherein said flexible pole being adapted for mounting into the ground to provide stability thereto when in use.

3) The device of claim 2, wherein said flexible pole having a pointed terminal end that is adapted for use as a ground stake.

4) The device of claim 2, wherein said flexible pole having a multi-prong terminal end that is adapted for use as a ground stake.

5) The device of claim 2, wherein said flexible pole having a weighted ground support that slidably attaches to said pole and rests on a horizontal surface.

6) The device of claim 1, wherein said flexible pole having a telescoping means that enables said flaps to be height adjustable based on the height of a user.

7) The device of claim 1, wherein said flexible pole having a joint in the middle thereof that enables said pole to be broken down into two sections.

8) The device of claim 1, wherein said plurality of target flaps are positioned one on top of another.

9) The device of claim 1, wherein said pole further comprising a plurality of retainers being positioned at the top and bottom of said target flap, said retainers providing a sufficient amount of separation between each of said flaps for independent movement thereof.

10) The device of claim 9, wherein said retainers being molded extensions of said pole.

11) A batting device, comprising:

A flexible pole that is anchored to a horizontal surface;

and at least one flexible target flap extending from said pole and being permanently attached thereto.

12) The device of claim 1, wherein said target flaps being formed in a substantially rectangular configuration, and having a width that allows for striking with a conventional baseball or softball bat.

13) The device of claim 1, wherein said target flaps are secured to the pole with an attachment means.

14) The device of claim 13, wherein said attachment means comprises an annular ring with an aperture in the middle thereof that completely encircles said pole.

15) The device of claim 13, wherein said attachment means comprises a C-clip that secures around said flexible pole

16) The device of claim 13, wherein said attachment means comprises an annular ring with an aperture in the middle thereof that completely encircles said pole, and at least one horizontally positioned aperture that enables said flap to accept a fastener for attachment of said flap to said pole.

17) A batting device, comprising:

A flexible pole that is anchored to a horizontal surface, said pole having a flexible tab extending therefrom;

at least one target flap being pivotably mounted to said pole and being independently movable between a first and second position, said flap having an aperture to allow said tab attached to said pole to pass therethrough;

said tab extending beyond said aperture such that said flap makes contact with said tab.

18) The device of claim, 13 wherein said attachment means comprises a helical torsion spring that attaches said flap to said pole, and being adapted to automatically return said flap to its original position.