US20170239545A1 - Portable practice targets for practicing hitting a target attached to a goal post or crossbar - Google Patents
Portable practice targets for practicing hitting a target attached to a goal post or crossbar Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20170239545A1 US20170239545A1 US15/050,234 US201615050234A US2017239545A1 US 20170239545 A1 US20170239545 A1 US 20170239545A1 US 201615050234 A US201615050234 A US 201615050234A US 2017239545 A1 US2017239545 A1 US 2017239545A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- target assembly
- portable target
- portable
- goal
- crossbar
- 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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Classifications
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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
- A63B63/003—Targets or goals for ball games non-electronic means for locating the point of impact on a target or the point of entry in the goal
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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
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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
- A63B63/004—Goals of the type used for football, handball, hockey or the like
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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
- A63B69/002—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for football
-
- 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
- A63B69/0024—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for hockey
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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
- A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
- A63B24/0021—Tracking a path or terminating locations
- A63B2024/0037—Tracking a path or terminating locations on a target surface or at impact on the ground
- A63B2024/0046—Mechanical means for locating the point of impact or entry
- A63B2024/005—Keeping track of the point of impact or entry
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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
- A63B2209/08—Characteristics of used materials magnetic
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2214/00—Training methods
Definitions
- the present invention relates to an apparatus for practicing hitting a portable target assembly attached to a goal post or crossbar to improve a person's accuracy.
- the perimeter of the goal opening is defined by two vertical goal posts separated by an upper crossbar and the playing surface.
- Practice targets are attached to the goal posts or crossbar for a player to aim at during a practice session.
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,842,283 by LeBel and Melendez discloses a contact member springily associated with a support arm which is used to mount a portable target assembly to a support which preferably includes the crossbar or posts of a standard hockey goal.
- the support arm is attached to the post or crossbar using a bolt making it difficult to quickly remove the portable target assembly. Also, the size reduces the portability of the target by a player.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,509,650 by MacDonald discloses a target support sized to approximate the goal and at least two targets positioned thereon.
- the practice apparatus is preferably a freestanding apparatus supported by support legs. Due to the size of this practice assembly it is not easily portable by a player.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,888,153 by Masin discloses a target which includes a band of steel with a pocket connected to the band of steel for catching an object.
- a spring is, at one end, connected to the target and, at the opposite end connected to a clamping device such that the entire assembly can be connected to a goal post or crossbar.
- the clamping device increased the size and amount of time to remove the target from the post or crossbar thus reducing the portability of the target.
- U.S. Pat. No. 7,252,604 by Birss discloses a target apparatus that includes a bracket for attachment to a goal frame member.
- the target apparatus being physically clamped to the post or crossbar increases the difficulty of removing the target and reduces its portability by a player.
- the present invention has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved by currently available target assemblies.
- a portable target assembly for use in a sport wherein a projectile is shot at a goal the portable target assembly comprises a front face and rear face separated by a solid material, and at least one magnet secured to the portable target assembly allowing the portable target assembly to be magnetically attached to a goal post or crossbar.
- the magnet may be comprised of at least one permanent magnet or of a flexible magnetic strip.
- the magnet may be securely attached to a straight edge formed perpendicular to the front face and the rear face along the circumference of the portable target assembly, the width of the straight edge being the distance between the front face and the rear face.
- the magnetic material is secured to the rear face of the portable target assembly.
- a strip of magnetic receptive material may be secured to the goal post or crossbar thus allowing the portable target assembly to magnetically attach to the post or crossbar.
- a method of sport training comprising the steps of: providing a portable target assembly having a front face and a rear face separated by a solid material with a magnet secured thereto; securing the portable target assembly to a goal post or a cross bar of a goal such that the portable target assembly protrudes into a goal region of the goal; propelling a projectile at the portable target assembly.
- the method further comprising coupling a magnetically receptive material to a goal that is not magnetically receptive such that the magnet of the portable target assembly may be magnetically coupled thereto.
- the method wherein the portable target assembly includes a straight edge and the magnet is disposed on the portable target assembly near the straight edge thereof.
- FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a portable target assembly wherein permanent magnets are embedded in the portable target assembly.
- FIG. 2 illustrates yet another embodiment of a portable target assembly wherein a strip of magnetic material is secured to the portable target assembly.
- FIG. 3 illustrates yet another embodiment of a portable target assembly wherein permanent magnets are embedded in the rear face adjacent to the straight edge of the portable target assembly.
- FIG. 4 illustrates yet another embodiment of a portable target assembly wherein a strip of magnetic material is secured to the portable target assembly.
- FIG. 5 illustrates yet another embodiment of a portable target assembly wherein two permanent magnets are embedded in the portable target assembly.
- FIG. 6 illustrates different arrangements of the front face and rear face that may be used for the portable target assembly according to three embodiments of the invention.
- FIG. 7 illustrates additional configurations possible for the portable target assembly including a circle, rectangle, hexagon, or any other polygonal shape.
- FIG. 8 illustrates a portable target assembly attached to a goal post according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 9 illustrates a portable target assembly attached to a goal post made from a non-magnetic material according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 10 illustrates yet another embodiment of a target assembly 1000 wherein a receptive body 1012 is magnetically attached to a goal post or crossbar 1010 , a removable target body 1002 being secured to the receptive body 1012 .
- FIG. 11 illustrates the placement of target assemblies along a goal post or crossbar.
- references throughout this specification to an “embodiment,” an “example” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, or combinations thereof described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention.
- appearances of the phrases an “embodiment,” an “example,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment, to different embodiments, or to one or more of the figures.
- reference to the wording “embodiment,” “example” or the like, for two or more features, elements, etc. does not mean that the features are necessarily related, dissimilar, the same, etc.
- the embodiments of this invention comprise securing a magnet to a portable target assembly such that the portable target assembly is easily attached to a magnetic goal post or crossbar.
- the magnets comprise permanent magnets and flexible magnetic materials.
- These portable target assemblies may be used in sports having a goal such as hockey, lacrosse, ringette, broomball, and soccer.
- a magnetically receptive material may be secured to the goal post or crossbar in at least one area allowing the portable target assembly to be attached.
- the target assemblies of the present invention are easily removed from the goal post or crossbar and stored in player's gym bag or other carrying device.
- the portable target assembly comprises a front face, a rear face, and a solid material between the front and rear face forming the body of the portable target assembly.
- An edge is formed around the circumference of the portable target assembly allowing at least one magnet to be secured on the surface of the edge, or partially or wholly within the body of the target wherein the portable target assembly attaches to a goal post or crossbar along the edge of the portable target assembly.
- An alternative is to secure at least one magnet to the surface of the rear face, or partially or wholly within the body of the assembly so that the portable target assembly attaches to the goal post or crossbar at the rear face of the portable target assembly.
- FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a portable target assembly 100 wherein permanent magnets 106 are embedded in the portable target assembly 100 .
- the portable target assembly 100 is shown to be circular in shape with a portion of the circle missing along a chord of the circle to form a straight edge 103 .
- the portable target assembly 100 shown has a front face 102 and a rear face 104 separated by a solid material. Two holes are depicted that have been created by removing material perpendicular to the straight edge 103 , the holes being sized to securely receive two magnets 106 .
- the magnets 106 are shown to be flush to the straight edge 103 , but this is not a requirement as long as they are secured so they can't be pulled out of the portable target assembly 100 .
- FIG. 2 illustrates yet another embodiment of a portable target assembly 200 wherein a strip of magnetic material 206 is secured to the portable target assembly 200 .
- the portable target assembly 200 is shown to be circular in shape with a straight edge 203 .
- the portable target assembly 200 shown has a front face 102 and a rear face 104 separated by a solid material.
- a magnetic strip 206 is secured to the straight edge 203 of the portable target assembly.
- FIG. 3 illustrates yet another embodiment of a portable target assembly 300 wherein discreet magnets 306 are embedded in the rear face 304 adjacent to the straight edge of the portable target assembly 300 .
- Two holes are depicted that have been created by removing material parallel to the rear face 304 , the holes being sized to securely receive two magnets 306 .
- the magnets 306 are shown to be flush to the rear face 304 , but this is not a requirement as long as they are secured so they can't be pulled out of the portable target assembly.
- FIG. 4 illustrates yet another embodiment of a portable target assembly 400 wherein a strip of magnetic material 406 is secured to the portable target assembly 200 .
- the portable target assembly 400 is shown to be circular in shape with a straight edge 403 .
- the portable target assembly 200 has a front face 102 and a rear face 104 separated by a solid material.
- a magnetic strip 206 is secured to the rear face 404 adjacent to the straight edge 403 of the portable target assembly 400 .
- FIG. 5 illustrates yet another embodiment of a portable target assembly 500 wherein two permanent magnets 506 are embedded in the portable target assembly 500 .
- the portable target assembly 500 is shown to be circular in shape with a straight edge 503 .
- the portable target assembly 500 has a front face 502 and a rear face 504 separated by a solid material.
- Two holes are depicted that have been created by removing material perpendicular to the face of the straight edge 103 and centered in the raised areas 505 , the holes being sized to securely receive two magnets 506 .
- the magnets 506 are shown to be flush to the straight edge 103 , but this is not a requirement as long as they are secured so they can't be pulled out of the portable target assembly.
- FIG. 6 illustrates different arrangements of the front face and rear face that may be used for the portable target assembly according to three embodiments of the invention.
- Target assemble 602 is formed from two separate pieces of material being securely connected at a right angle to each other.
- At least one magnet 606 is embedded in a short piece 601 attached to the target area, the target area having a front face 608 and a rear face 610 that are parallel and separated by a solid material.
- a second portable target assembly 603 has a front face 608 and a rear face 610 that are not parallel to each other. At least one magnet 606 is embedded in a straight edge of the portable target assembly.
- a third portable target assembly 605 the shape is the same as portable target assembly 603 except the straight edge has been formed into a concave shape 612 to match the curvature of a goal post and crossbar.
- FIG. 7 illustrates different shapes that may be used for the portable target assembly. These shapes include but are not limited to a circle 702 , a rectangle/square 704 , and a hexagon 706 . At least one magnet may be secured to the edge forming the circumference of the portable target assembly or on the rear face adjacent to a straight edge of the rectangle/square 704 or hexagon 706 . In the case of a full circle 702 at least one magnet may be secured to the rear face along a chord of the circle.
- FIG. 8 illustrates a portable target assembly attached to a goal post according to one embodiment of the invention.
- a circular portable target assembly 800 has two magnets 806 embedded it the solid material separating the front face 802 from the rear face 804 .
- the magnets 806 securely hold the portable target assembly 800 to the goal post 810 .
- the goal post 810 in this embodiment is made from a magnetic material such as steel.
- FIG. 9 illustrates a portable target assembly 900 attached to a goal post 910 made from a non-magnetic material according to one embodiment of the invention.
- a magnetic receptive material must be attached to the goal post or crossbar in at least one position to allowing the attachment of a portable target assembly.
- a strip of magnetic receptive material 912 is attached to the post 910 .
- the magnets 906 of the portable target assembly 900 can then attach to the magnetic receptive strip 912 .
- Magnetic receptive strips may be located at strategic points along the goal post and crossbar or a continuous magnetic receptive strip may be applied along the entire length of the goal posts and crossbar.
- the magnetic receptive strip may comprise flexible magnetic receptive materials as well as flexible magnetic materials.
- FIG. 10 illustrates yet another embodiment of a target assembly wherein a receptive body 1012 is magnetically attached to a goal post or crossbar 1010 , a removable target body 1002 being secured to the receptive body 1012 .
- Receptive body 1012 is magnetically attached to a goal post or crossbar 1010 by magnets 1006 secured to the receptive body 1012 .
- a slot may be formed in the receptive body 1012 to accept a removable target body 1002 .
- the removable target body 1002 is held in the slot by a compression fit.
- Other embodiments may include attaching the removable target body 1002 to the receptive body 1012 using screws 1014 or other means.
- removable target bodies may be secured to the receptive body 1012 .
- a player may start with a large removable target body and as they improve may change out the large removable target body for a smaller target body.
- the removable target bodies may be purchased or the player may use discarded materials such as compact discs, records, or other items.
- FIG. 11 illustrates the placement of target assemblies along a goal post 1102 or crossbar 1104 wherein the target assembly protrudes into the goal region 1100 of the goal.
- the goal region 1100 defined as area between two goal posts, the playing surface, and the crossbar attached to the upper ends of the two goal posts and the playing surface.
- the portable target assembly positions are illustrative only and not necessarily the optimal positions for the placement of the target assemblies.
- Small targets 1106 and large targets 1108 may be placed along the goal posts 1102 and the crossbar 1104 .
- an advanced player may use small target assemblies 1106
- a beginning player may want to use a large portable target assembly 1108 . All skill levels can be easily accommodated since the target assemblies can be easily and quickly placed anywhere along the perimeter of the goal opening. Once a play is finished the portable target assemblies can be quickly removed and stored in a gym bag or other carrying case.
- a method of sports training comprises providing a portable target assembly having a front face and a rear face separated by a solid material with a magnet secured thereto, securing the portable target to a goal post or a crossbar of a goal such that the portable target assembly protrudes into the goal region of the goal, and launching a projectile at the portable target assembly.
- the method further comprises coupling a magnetically receptive material to a goal that is not magnetically receptive such that the magnet of the portable target assembly may be magnetically coupled thereto.
- the portable target assembly may include a straight edge and the magnet is disposed on the portable target assembly near the straight edge thereof.
- the illustrative embodiments disclosed herein have been shown having two magnets or a single piece of magnetic material. It is not a requirement that two magnets or a single strip of magnetic material be used since any number of magnets or strips of magnetic material may be used as long as the portable target assembly can be easily attached to a goal post or crossbar and quickly and easily removed by a player.
- the magnet shape need not be round, but may be any shape or thickness as long as the portable target assembly can attach to a goal post or crossbar.
- the magnets are shown to be flush to a straight edge or in contact with the surface of the portable target assembly, but this is not a requirement as long as they are secured so they can't be pulled out of the portable target assembly. Magnets may be embedded in the portable target assembly but extend partially above the surface, or completely embedded within the body of the portable target assembly. As long as the result allows the portable target assembly to be magnetically attaches to a goal post or crossbar.
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- Aiming, Guidance, Guns With A Light Source, Armor, Camouflage, And Targets (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates to an apparatus for practicing hitting a portable target assembly attached to a goal post or crossbar to improve a person's accuracy.
- Description of the Related Art
- In sports having a goal protected by a goalie there are areas around the perimeter of the goal that are more likely to result in a propelled object getting by the goalie. The perimeter of the goal opening is defined by two vertical goal posts separated by an upper crossbar and the playing surface. Practice targets are attached to the goal posts or crossbar for a player to aim at during a practice session.
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,842,283 by LeBel and Melendez discloses a contact member springily associated with a support arm which is used to mount a portable target assembly to a support which preferably includes the crossbar or posts of a standard hockey goal. The support arm is attached to the post or crossbar using a bolt making it difficult to quickly remove the portable target assembly. Also, the size reduces the portability of the target by a player.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,509,650 by MacDonald discloses a target support sized to approximate the goal and at least two targets positioned thereon. The practice apparatus is preferably a freestanding apparatus supported by support legs. Due to the size of this practice assembly it is not easily portable by a player.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,888,153 by Masin discloses a target which includes a band of steel with a pocket connected to the band of steel for catching an object. A spring is, at one end, connected to the target and, at the opposite end connected to a clamping device such that the entire assembly can be connected to a goal post or crossbar. The clamping device increased the size and amount of time to remove the target from the post or crossbar thus reducing the portability of the target.
- U.S. Pat. No. 7,252,604 by Birss discloses a target apparatus that includes a bracket for attachment to a goal frame member. The target apparatus being physically clamped to the post or crossbar increases the difficulty of removing the target and reduces its portability by a player.
- The present invention has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved by currently available target assemblies.
- A portable target assembly for use in a sport wherein a projectile is shot at a goal, the portable target assembly comprises a front face and rear face separated by a solid material, and at least one magnet secured to the portable target assembly allowing the portable target assembly to be magnetically attached to a goal post or crossbar. The magnet may be comprised of at least one permanent magnet or of a flexible magnetic strip. In one embodiment the magnet may be securely attached to a straight edge formed perpendicular to the front face and the rear face along the circumference of the portable target assembly, the width of the straight edge being the distance between the front face and the rear face. In yet another embodiment the magnetic material is secured to the rear face of the portable target assembly. In cases where the goal post and crossbar are not made from a magnetic material, a strip of magnetic receptive material may be secured to the goal post or crossbar thus allowing the portable target assembly to magnetically attach to the post or crossbar.
- A method of sport training, comprising the steps of: providing a portable target assembly having a front face and a rear face separated by a solid material with a magnet secured thereto; securing the portable target assembly to a goal post or a cross bar of a goal such that the portable target assembly protrudes into a goal region of the goal; propelling a projectile at the portable target assembly. The method further comprising coupling a magnetically receptive material to a goal that is not magnetically receptive such that the magnet of the portable target assembly may be magnetically coupled thereto. The method wherein the portable target assembly includes a straight edge and the magnet is disposed on the portable target assembly near the straight edge thereof.
- Reference throughout this specification to features, advantages, or similar language does not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized with the present invention should be or are in any single embodiment of the invention. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, discussion of the features and advantages, and similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.
- Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments of the invention.
- These features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.
- In order for the advantages of the invention to be readily understood, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawing(s). It is noted that the drawings of the invention are not to scale. The drawings are mere schematics representations, not intended to portray specific parameters of the invention. Understanding that these drawing(s) depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not, therefore, to be considered to be limiting its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawing(s), in which:
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FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a portable target assembly wherein permanent magnets are embedded in the portable target assembly. -
FIG. 2 illustrates yet another embodiment of a portable target assembly wherein a strip of magnetic material is secured to the portable target assembly. -
FIG. 3 illustrates yet another embodiment of a portable target assembly wherein permanent magnets are embedded in the rear face adjacent to the straight edge of the portable target assembly. -
FIG. 4 illustrates yet another embodiment of a portable target assembly wherein a strip of magnetic material is secured to the portable target assembly. -
FIG. 5 illustrates yet another embodiment of a portable target assembly wherein two permanent magnets are embedded in the portable target assembly. -
FIG. 6 illustrates different arrangements of the front face and rear face that may be used for the portable target assembly according to three embodiments of the invention. -
FIG. 7 illustrates additional configurations possible for the portable target assembly including a circle, rectangle, hexagon, or any other polygonal shape. -
FIG. 8 illustrates a portable target assembly attached to a goal post according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 9 illustrates a portable target assembly attached to a goal post made from a non-magnetic material according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 10 illustrates yet another embodiment of a target assembly 1000 wherein areceptive body 1012 is magnetically attached to a goal post orcrossbar 1010, aremovable target body 1002 being secured to thereceptive body 1012. -
FIG. 11 illustrates the placement of target assemblies along a goal post or crossbar. - For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawing(s), and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and any additional applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the invention.
- Reference throughout this specification to an “embodiment,” an “example” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, or combinations thereof described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases an “embodiment,” an “example,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment, to different embodiments, or to one or more of the figures. Additionally, reference to the wording “embodiment,” “example” or the like, for two or more features, elements, etc. does not mean that the features are necessarily related, dissimilar, the same, etc.
- Each statement of an embodiment, or example, is to be considered independent of any other statement of an embodiment despite any use of similar or identical language characterizing each embodiment. Therefore, where one embodiment is identified as “another embodiment,” the identified embodiment is independent of any other embodiments characterized by the language “another embodiment.” The features, functions, and the like described herein are considered to be able to be combined in whole or in part one with another as the claims and/or art may direct, either directly or indirectly, implicitly or explicitly.
- As used herein, “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” “is,” “are,” “characterized by,” and grammatical equivalents thereof are inclusive or open-ended terms that do not exclude additional unrecited elements or method steps. “Comprising” is to be interpreted as including the more restrictive terms “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of.”
- In general, the embodiments of this invention comprise securing a magnet to a portable target assembly such that the portable target assembly is easily attached to a magnetic goal post or crossbar. The magnets comprise permanent magnets and flexible magnetic materials. These portable target assemblies may be used in sports having a goal such as hockey, lacrosse, ringette, broomball, and soccer. When the goal post or crossbar is not made from a magnetic material a magnetically receptive material may be secured to the goal post or crossbar in at least one area allowing the portable target assembly to be attached. The target assemblies of the present invention are easily removed from the goal post or crossbar and stored in player's gym bag or other carrying device. The portable target assembly comprises a front face, a rear face, and a solid material between the front and rear face forming the body of the portable target assembly. An edge is formed around the circumference of the portable target assembly allowing at least one magnet to be secured on the surface of the edge, or partially or wholly within the body of the target wherein the portable target assembly attaches to a goal post or crossbar along the edge of the portable target assembly. An alternative is to secure at least one magnet to the surface of the rear face, or partially or wholly within the body of the assembly so that the portable target assembly attaches to the goal post or crossbar at the rear face of the portable target assembly.
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FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of aportable target assembly 100 whereinpermanent magnets 106 are embedded in theportable target assembly 100. In this embodiment theportable target assembly 100 is shown to be circular in shape with a portion of the circle missing along a chord of the circle to form astraight edge 103. Theportable target assembly 100 shown has afront face 102 and arear face 104 separated by a solid material. Two holes are depicted that have been created by removing material perpendicular to thestraight edge 103, the holes being sized to securely receive twomagnets 106. Themagnets 106 are shown to be flush to thestraight edge 103, but this is not a requirement as long as they are secured so they can't be pulled out of theportable target assembly 100. -
FIG. 2 illustrates yet another embodiment of aportable target assembly 200 wherein a strip ofmagnetic material 206 is secured to theportable target assembly 200. In this embodiment theportable target assembly 200 is shown to be circular in shape with astraight edge 203. Theportable target assembly 200 shown has afront face 102 and arear face 104 separated by a solid material. Amagnetic strip 206 is secured to thestraight edge 203 of the portable target assembly. -
FIG. 3 illustrates yet another embodiment of aportable target assembly 300 whereindiscreet magnets 306 are embedded in therear face 304 adjacent to the straight edge of theportable target assembly 300. Two holes are depicted that have been created by removing material parallel to therear face 304, the holes being sized to securely receive twomagnets 306. Themagnets 306 are shown to be flush to therear face 304, but this is not a requirement as long as they are secured so they can't be pulled out of the portable target assembly. -
FIG. 4 illustrates yet another embodiment of aportable target assembly 400 wherein a strip ofmagnetic material 406 is secured to theportable target assembly 200. In this embodiment theportable target assembly 400 is shown to be circular in shape with astraight edge 403. Theportable target assembly 200 has afront face 102 and arear face 104 separated by a solid material. Amagnetic strip 206 is secured to therear face 404 adjacent to thestraight edge 403 of theportable target assembly 400. -
FIG. 5 illustrates yet another embodiment of aportable target assembly 500 wherein twopermanent magnets 506 are embedded in theportable target assembly 500. In this embodiment theportable target assembly 500 is shown to be circular in shape with astraight edge 503. Theportable target assembly 500 has afront face 502 and arear face 504 separated by a solid material. There are two raisedareas 505 on thefront face 502 and therear face 504 providing additional material in the area where the magnets are attached. Two holes are depicted that have been created by removing material perpendicular to the face of thestraight edge 103 and centered in the raisedareas 505, the holes being sized to securely receive twomagnets 506. Themagnets 506 are shown to be flush to thestraight edge 103, but this is not a requirement as long as they are secured so they can't be pulled out of the portable target assembly. -
FIG. 6 illustrates different arrangements of the front face and rear face that may be used for the portable target assembly according to three embodiments of the invention. Target assemble 602 is formed from two separate pieces of material being securely connected at a right angle to each other. At least onemagnet 606 is embedded in ashort piece 601 attached to the target area, the target area having afront face 608 and arear face 610 that are parallel and separated by a solid material. - A second
portable target assembly 603 has afront face 608 and arear face 610 that are not parallel to each other. At least onemagnet 606 is embedded in a straight edge of the portable target assembly. - In a third
portable target assembly 605 the shape is the same asportable target assembly 603 except the straight edge has been formed into aconcave shape 612 to match the curvature of a goal post and crossbar. -
FIG. 7 illustrates different shapes that may be used for the portable target assembly. These shapes include but are not limited to acircle 702, a rectangle/square 704, and ahexagon 706. At least one magnet may be secured to the edge forming the circumference of the portable target assembly or on the rear face adjacent to a straight edge of the rectangle/square 704 orhexagon 706. In the case of afull circle 702 at least one magnet may be secured to the rear face along a chord of the circle. -
FIG. 8 illustrates a portable target assembly attached to a goal post according to one embodiment of the invention. A circularportable target assembly 800 has twomagnets 806 embedded it the solid material separating thefront face 802 from therear face 804. Themagnets 806 securely hold theportable target assembly 800 to thegoal post 810. Thegoal post 810 in this embodiment is made from a magnetic material such as steel. -
FIG. 9 illustrates aportable target assembly 900 attached to agoal post 910 made from a non-magnetic material according to one embodiment of the invention. In this case where the goal post and/or crossbar are not made from a magnetic material a magnetic receptive material must be attached to the goal post or crossbar in at least one position to allowing the attachment of a portable target assembly. In the illustration a strip of magneticreceptive material 912 is attached to thepost 910. Themagnets 906 of theportable target assembly 900 can then attach to the magneticreceptive strip 912. Magnetic receptive strips may be located at strategic points along the goal post and crossbar or a continuous magnetic receptive strip may be applied along the entire length of the goal posts and crossbar. The magnetic receptive strip may comprise flexible magnetic receptive materials as well as flexible magnetic materials. -
FIG. 10 illustrates yet another embodiment of a target assembly wherein areceptive body 1012 is magnetically attached to a goal post orcrossbar 1010, aremovable target body 1002 being secured to thereceptive body 1012.Receptive body 1012 is magnetically attached to a goal post orcrossbar 1010 bymagnets 1006 secured to thereceptive body 1012. In this embodiment a slot may be formed in thereceptive body 1012 to accept aremovable target body 1002. In one embodiment theremovable target body 1002 is held in the slot by a compression fit. Other embodiments may include attaching theremovable target body 1002 to thereceptive body 1012 usingscrews 1014 or other means. In this manner different shapes and sizes of removable target bodies may be secured to thereceptive body 1012. A player may start with a large removable target body and as they improve may change out the large removable target body for a smaller target body. The removable target bodies may be purchased or the player may use discarded materials such as compact discs, records, or other items. -
FIG. 11 illustrates the placement of target assemblies along agoal post 1102 orcrossbar 1104 wherein the target assembly protrudes into thegoal region 1100 of the goal. Thegoal region 1100 defined as area between two goal posts, the playing surface, and the crossbar attached to the upper ends of the two goal posts and the playing surface. The portable target assembly positions are illustrative only and not necessarily the optimal positions for the placement of the target assemblies.Small targets 1106 andlarge targets 1108 may be placed along thegoal posts 1102 and thecrossbar 1104. Depending on the skill level of a player, an advanced player may usesmall target assemblies 1106, whereas a beginning player may want to use a largeportable target assembly 1108. All skill levels can be easily accommodated since the target assemblies can be easily and quickly placed anywhere along the perimeter of the goal opening. Once a play is finished the portable target assemblies can be quickly removed and stored in a gym bag or other carrying case. - A method of sports training comprises providing a portable target assembly having a front face and a rear face separated by a solid material with a magnet secured thereto, securing the portable target to a goal post or a crossbar of a goal such that the portable target assembly protrudes into the goal region of the goal, and launching a projectile at the portable target assembly. The method further comprises coupling a magnetically receptive material to a goal that is not magnetically receptive such that the magnet of the portable target assembly may be magnetically coupled thereto. The portable target assembly may include a straight edge and the magnet is disposed on the portable target assembly near the straight edge thereof.
- The illustrative embodiments disclosed herein have been shown having two magnets or a single piece of magnetic material. It is not a requirement that two magnets or a single strip of magnetic material be used since any number of magnets or strips of magnetic material may be used as long as the portable target assembly can be easily attached to a goal post or crossbar and quickly and easily removed by a player. The magnet shape need not be round, but may be any shape or thickness as long as the portable target assembly can attach to a goal post or crossbar. The magnets are shown to be flush to a straight edge or in contact with the surface of the portable target assembly, but this is not a requirement as long as they are secured so they can't be pulled out of the portable target assembly. Magnets may be embedded in the portable target assembly but extend partially above the surface, or completely embedded within the body of the portable target assembly. As long as the result allows the portable target assembly to be magnetically attaches to a goal post or crossbar.
- It is understood that the above-described preferred embodiments are only illustrative of the application of the principles of the present invention. The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiment is to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claim rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
- Thus, while the present invention has been fully described above with particularity and detail in connection with what is presently deemed to be the most practical and preferred embodiment of the invention, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications, including, but not limited to, variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use may be made, without departing from the principles and concepts of the invention as set forth in the claims. Further, it is contemplated that an embodiment may be limited to consist of or to consist essentially of one or more of the functions, features, structures, and/or methods described herein.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/050,234 US20170239545A1 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2016-02-22 | Portable practice targets for practicing hitting a target attached to a goal post or crossbar |
EP17157158.1A EP3207963A1 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2017-02-21 | Portable practice targets for practicing hitting a target attached to a goal post or crossbar |
CA2958527A CA2958527A1 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2017-02-21 | Portable practice targets for practicing hitting a target attached to a goal post or crossbar |
US16/292,128 US11717735B1 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2019-03-04 | Magnetic practice targets |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/050,234 US20170239545A1 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2016-02-22 | Portable practice targets for practicing hitting a target attached to a goal post or crossbar |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US16/292,128 Continuation-In-Part US11717735B1 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2019-03-04 | Magnetic practice targets |
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US20170239545A1 true US20170239545A1 (en) | 2017-08-24 |
Family
ID=58185268
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US15/050,234 Abandoned US20170239545A1 (en) | 2016-02-22 | 2016-02-22 | Portable practice targets for practicing hitting a target attached to a goal post or crossbar |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20170239545A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3207963A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2958527A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11266891B2 (en) | 2019-10-16 | 2022-03-08 | EpicSportsLLC | Target for sport goal |
US20220339510A1 (en) * | 2021-04-27 | 2022-10-27 | Bryan Patterson | Hockey Net and Rebound Screen |
Citations (6)
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US4842283A (en) * | 1987-05-05 | 1989-06-27 | Lebel Kenneth | Target assembly |
US5470057A (en) * | 1995-02-02 | 1995-11-28 | Paddle Games Unlimited, Inc. | Paddle game |
US20030141661A1 (en) * | 2002-01-28 | 2003-07-31 | Maceachern John | Magnetic based game |
US20080214331A1 (en) * | 2007-02-02 | 2008-09-04 | Total Hockey Products And Services, Llc | Method and Apparatus for Hockey Training |
US20090017932A1 (en) * | 2007-07-12 | 2009-01-15 | Clinton Wilcox | Golf club alignment device |
US20110006266A1 (en) * | 2009-07-07 | 2011-01-13 | Korea Kumho Petrochemical Co., Ltd. | Catalyst for preparing carbon nanotubes by controlling its apparent density |
Family Cites Families (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5509650A (en) | 1994-10-14 | 1996-04-23 | Macdonald; Lee | Automated practice target for goal-oriented sports and a method of training using the practice target |
CA2152727C (en) | 1995-06-27 | 1999-09-21 | James Steven Masin | Portable shot target assembly |
US20070045964A1 (en) * | 2003-11-03 | 2007-03-01 | Abc Party Games, Inc. | Portable party system and method |
CA2477818C (en) | 2004-08-13 | 2014-05-06 | Arthur Birss | Target apparatus for a sport goal |
-
2016
- 2016-02-22 US US15/050,234 patent/US20170239545A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2017
- 2017-02-21 CA CA2958527A patent/CA2958527A1/en active Pending
- 2017-02-21 EP EP17157158.1A patent/EP3207963A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Patent Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4842283A (en) * | 1987-05-05 | 1989-06-27 | Lebel Kenneth | Target assembly |
US5470057A (en) * | 1995-02-02 | 1995-11-28 | Paddle Games Unlimited, Inc. | Paddle game |
US20030141661A1 (en) * | 2002-01-28 | 2003-07-31 | Maceachern John | Magnetic based game |
US20080214331A1 (en) * | 2007-02-02 | 2008-09-04 | Total Hockey Products And Services, Llc | Method and Apparatus for Hockey Training |
US20090017932A1 (en) * | 2007-07-12 | 2009-01-15 | Clinton Wilcox | Golf club alignment device |
US20110006266A1 (en) * | 2009-07-07 | 2011-01-13 | Korea Kumho Petrochemical Co., Ltd. | Catalyst for preparing carbon nanotubes by controlling its apparent density |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11266891B2 (en) | 2019-10-16 | 2022-03-08 | EpicSportsLLC | Target for sport goal |
US20220339510A1 (en) * | 2021-04-27 | 2022-10-27 | Bryan Patterson | Hockey Net and Rebound Screen |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CA2958527A1 (en) | 2017-08-22 |
EP3207963A1 (en) | 2017-08-23 |
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