Hitting practice device

A hitting practice device allows a batter to swing the bat, make contact with the device, and then to follow-through with the swing while maintaining contact with the device. In embodiments, the hitting practice device includes a pivoting base, a post connected to the base, a pad attached at the upper portion of the post, and a stopper that prevents the base from pivoting beyond a recovery angle. In other embodiments, the base includes a base plate and stabilization plate connected by a hinge. In embodiments, a pad and dampener absorb most of the initial impact of the hit, pausing the swing for analysis. The pivoting base then allows the batter to continue, follow-through and completing the swing.

BACKGROUND

Many sports such as baseball, softball, cricket, stickball, tennis, etc. involve hitting a ball using a bat, racket or paddle. Players try to hit the ball with a desired speed, angle or force for the best possible results. Numerous devices, such as hitting tees, have been developed over the years to enable players to practice and improve their form. Players also may use a hitting drill known as the “bag drill” to improve their hitting form. This drill involves the baseball or softball player swinging a bat until the bat makes contact with a traditional punching bag. Once the bat makes contact with the bag, the baseball or softball player stops the swing, and the coach corrects the athlete's form. Players and coaches are constantly looking for devices and techniques to improve form, accuracy and strength.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview. It is not intended to either identify key or critical elements or to delineate the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the innovation in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

Embodiments of the described devices allow a batter to swing the bat, make contact with the device, and then to follow-through with the swing while maintaining contact with the device. In embodiments, a hitting practice device includes a pivoting base, a post connected to the base, a pad attached at the upper portion of the post, and a stopper that prevents the base from pivoting beyond a recovery angle. In other embodiments, the base includes a base plate and stabilization plate connected by a hinge, where the base plate rotates relative to the stabilization plate to pivot the base. A pad and dampener can absorb all or most of the initial impact of a hit, pausing the batter's swing for analysis. The pivoting base then allows the batter to continue, following-through and completing the swing.

In embodiments, the base plate and the stabilization plate are connected by the hinge, such that the base plate may pivot with respect to stabilization plate. In embodiments, stabilization plate remains substantially in contact with a surface supporting the device as the base plate pivots in response to a batter making contact with the device. In other embodiments, the stabilization plate is not present, and the base plate is connected directly to the supporting surface by hinge, such that the base plate may pivot with respect to the supporting surface.

In embodiments, the post is covered at least in part by a pad that assists in absorbing the initial contact of a hit. In embodiments, the post comprises a lower portion, an upper portion, and an impact dampener, the impact dampener being capable of storing mechanical energy. When a batter uses the device, the bat makes contact with the pad before the batter follows through with the swing. As the batter follows through, the pad and impact dampener absorb the impact of the hit of a bat, and the base plate pivots with respect to the stabilization plate upon follow-through by the batter.

In some embodiments, the base plate and the stabilization plate lie adjacent to each other when the device is at rest, and the base plate pivots toward the stabilization plate as the batter follows through with the swing and the bat pushes the pad. In other embodiments, the base plate lies on top of the stabilization plate when the device is at rest and the base plate pivots away from the stabilization plate as the batter follows through with the swing and the bat pushes the pad. Weights, a resistance band, or a resistance spring can be used to add resistance to the pivot of the base plate and the follow-through.

In embodiments, the device includes a stopper that prevents the base plate from pivoting beyond a recovery angle, wherein the recovery angle is the maximum angle at which the device will return to the resting state on its own once the batter no longer makes contact with the device. In some embodiments, the stopper comprises a limit in the hinge that prevents the hinge from rotating beyond the recovery angle. In other embodiments, the stopper comprises a leg, wherein the leg is connected to the post and extends outward so as to prevent the base plate from pivoting beyond the recovery angle. In other embodiments, the device includes a mock home plate that can be positioned to assist the player in judging their stance and practice hitting at various angles and for a variety of pitch locations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects of the hitting practice device are described below with reference to illustrative embodiments. The references to illustrative embodiments below are not made to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Instead, illustrative embodiments are used to aid in the description of various aspects of the device. The description, made by way of example and reference to illustrative reference is not meant to be limiting as regards any aspect of the claimed subject matter.

Baseball and softball practice generally includes batting tees or a bag drill, where players hit a weighted bag. The bag drill, when used with a traditional punching bag, is problematic because the weight of the bag prevents the baseball or softball player from following through and completing the swing motion after the player's form is corrected. In addition, a traditional punching bag is firm and heavy, providing little or no “give” when struck with the bat. This can strain the player's shoulder and arm muscles after just a few repetitions. There is a need for a hitting practice device that allows baseball and softball players to follow through with their swing after making contact with the device. In addition, there is a need for a hitting practice device with which baseball and softball players can make contact multiple times without straining the player's muscles.

FIG. 1illustrates a hitting practice device100for improving an individual's batting form and strength, particularly for baseball and softball players, although the benefits of using this device100may extend to other professions and recreational activities as well. The device100allows a batter to swing the bat, make contact with the device100, pause to check or correct stance and form, and then follow-through with the swing. As discussed in detail below, in embodiments the hitting practice device100includes a pad112attached to a post108, where the post108is supported by a pivoting base that enables the pad112and post108to pivot relative to the surface on which the device100is resting to follow-through and complete their swing. When a player practices hitting, they swing a bat and strike the pad112, preferably at the height and angle at which they would make contact with the ball during play. The initial impact of this strike can be absorbed at least in part by the pad112and potentially by an impact dampener114that flexes upon impact of the bat on the device100. If the swing is paused here, a coach can review the form of the player, or a camera can catch the player's form, allowing for evaluation and potentially adjustment of the player's stance or swing. After the pause, the player can continue the motion of the bat forward, causing the post108to pivot and allowing the player to practice their follow-through. Weights, resistance bands, springs or other resistance devices can oppose the pivot motion of the post108, providing strength training. The device100enables the player to practice using a full swing and avoids strain or jarring of the player's shoulders, arms and back.

Turning again toFIG. 1, the hitting practice device100, in one embodiment, includes a pad112and an impact dampener114. The pad112acts both as a target for the player swinging the bat, and absorbs at least part of the impact of the bat. The pad112is attached to a post108, that can include a lower portion107and an upper portion109connected via the impact dampener114, which absorbs at least part of the initial contact of the hit. The post108is connected to a pivoting base, formed here by a base plate102connected to a stabilization plate104via one or more hinges106. Impact of the bat causes the base plate102to rotate on the hinges106, which causes the post108and dampener114to rotate, allowing the batter to continue their follow-through and complete their swing. One or more weights116can be attached to the base plate102to increase the resistance to rotation of the base plate102and post108. This resistance can assist the batter in pausing their swing at or near the point of contact with the device100, allowing for evaluation and correction of form and stance.

FIG. 1depicts an embodiment of the hitting practice device100where the base plate102lies on top of stabilization plate104in the resting state. In this resting state the device100is ready for use and the batter assumes a batting stance relative to the device100. The batter lines up so that the point of contact between the batter's bat and the pad112represents the point of contact between the batter's bat and a ball being pitched during a game-time situation. A batting coach can watch the batter from any angle offering advice and instruction at any point before, during or after the batter's swing. The pad112and impact dampener114absorb some of the impact of force applied by the bat to the device100, which helps the batter avoid injury or strain caused by jarring during repeated hits against the device100. Once the batter makes contact with the pad112, the pad112and dampener114can allow the batter to halt their swing. Optionally with the assistance of a coach or other player, the batter is able to review and correct the position of his or her feet, hips, arms, legs, or whole body while maintaining substantial contact between the bat and the pad112. In an embodiment, the batter practices their swing at half or partial speed. The initial contact with the pad112stops the swing, allowing the batter to use their natural motion in the swing then stopping at the point of contact for evaluation and correction. The batter can then follow-through using the device100to complete the swing, with resistance from the device100providing strength training.

FIG. 2depicts the embodiment of the hitting practice device100ofFIG. 1after the batter begins to follow through with the swing and the device100leaves the resting state. Here, initial contact by the bat was made and the impact absorbed by the pad112and/or the impact dampener114. The hinge106allows the batter to follow-through after the point of contact, causing the base plate102to pivot relative to the stabilization plate104. In the embodiment ofFIG. 2, the base plate102pivots at the hinge, lifting away from stabilization plate104as the batter follows through with the swing. When the base plate102has reached a predetermined angle, a limit in the hinge106prevents further rotation of the hinge106, causing the base plate102to stop rotating relative to the stabilization plate104. At this point, the base plate102has not pivoted beyond a recovery angle, so the base plate102will naturally fall back into the resting position depicted inFIG. 2. The recovery angle is the maximum angle at which the device100will return to the resting state on its own once the batter no longer makes contact with the device100.

In some embodiments, the stabilization plate104is fixed to the ground for stability. If the device100is to be used on a soft surface, such as grass or earth, this can be accomplished by using stakes protruding from or inserted through the stabilization plate104and extending into the supporting surface. If the device is to be used on a hard surface, the stabilization plate104can be fixed to the ground with bolts, adhesives, or other types of fasteners. In other embodiments, the underside of the stabilization plate104is not fixed to the ground, but has a larger surface area or is weighted to provide for more stability. In some embodiments, additional plates may be attached to the bottom of the stabilization plate104to increase the surface area in contact with the supporting surface. In some embodiments, the underside of the stabilization plate104has a high coefficient of friction in order to prevent the device100from sliding when in use.

In another embodiment, the hinges106can be attached to the ground or surface upon which the device100rests, and the device100can be used without the stabilization plate104. In one such embodiment, the hinges106can be attached to the ground via one or more spikes or stakes that can be hammered into the ground.

In embodiments, the base plate102and stabilization plate104are connected by a one or more hinges106, as illustrated inFIG. 1, or any other mechanism that allows the base plate102to pivot about an axis between the base plate102and stabilization plate104while remaining attached to the stabilization plate104. The hinge106allows the stabilization plate104to remain in contact with the supporting surface while the base plate102pivots as the batter follows through with the swing. In embodiments, the hinge106to be configured to limit the angle through which the base plate102can pivot with respect to the stabilization plate104. In such embodiments, the hinge106acts effectively as a stopper that prevents the device from tipping past the recovery angle. In other embodiments, the device may include alternative or additional stoppers, as described below with respect toFIG. 10

As depicted inFIG. 1, in embodiments, the hitting practice device100includes a post108, which is connected to the base plate102by a connector110. The connector110holds the post108in place substantially perpendicular to the base plate102. The connector110can be a neck flange or any comparable connector suitable for holding the post108substantially perpendicular to the base plate102. In some embodiments, the post108comprises a plurality of connected portions, including a lower portion107and an upper portion109. In other embodiments, the post108is a single piece.

In embodiments, a pad112covers at least part of the post108. The pad112can be made of any material capable of softening the impact of a hit including, but not limited to, a cushion, cushioned bag, pad, inflated bag, fabric, sand or grain bag, and foam. In some embodiments, the pad112completely encloses the entire circumference of the post108. In other embodiments, the pad112only covers part of the post108, such as the part that comes in contact with the bat. In some embodiments, the pad112extends along the entire length of the post108, while in other embodiments the pad112extends along only part of the length of the post108. In some embodiments, the pad112is weighted so as to provide resistance to the follow through motion of a swing, while in other embodiments, the pad112is lightweight, so that the pad112can be easily transported.

In embodiments, the post108comprises a lower portion107and an upper portion109connected by an impact dampener114, such as a spring or other elastic material that connects the lower portion107of the post108to the upper portion109. The impact dampener114may be a spring or any other elastic material capable of storing mechanical energy when the pad112is struck by the batter. Examples of other elastic materials include, but are not limited to, elastomers such as natural rubber and synthetic rubber. In some embodiments, a casing encloses the top of the lower portion107of the post108, the impact dampener114, and the bottom of the upper portion109of the post108. In embodiments where the impact dampener114comprises a spring, the casing protects the spring and may also prevent fingers or other items from getting caught and pinched in the spring. The casing can be made of any flexible material, such as rubber. In some embodiments, a casing encloses at least part of one or more of the impact dampener114, the lower portion107of the post108, and the upper portion109of the post108.

In some embodiments, the post108is collapsible or detachable from the base plate102for easier transportation and storage. In embodiments, upper portion109of the post108is collapsible or detachable from one or more of the impact dampener114, the lower portion107of the post108, and the pad112. In some embodiments, the upper portion109of the post108, the lower portion107of the post108, and the impact dampener114, can be detached from one another for easier transportation and storage. In some embodiments, the upper portion109of the post108, the lower portion107of the post108, and the impact dampener114, can be collapsible relative to one another for easier transportation and storage. In some embodiments, the lower portion107of the post108is detachable from the connector110. In some embodiments, the connector110is detachable from the base plate102. The term “detachable,” “detach,” or “detached” should be understood as meaning that the component may perform one or more of detaching, folding closed, unfastening, unlocking, unpinning, disengaging, unscrewing, unhitching, or other means by which the component is either detached from one or more other components or is internally detached into one or more subcomponents or into a more compact or collapsible state.

As illustrated byFIG. 8, in some embodiments, the upper portion109and pad112are detachable and can be removed. Such a configuration allows for the pad112to be replaced with another pad112having different mass, firmness, or other attribute. For example, it may be desirable to use a pad having a greater mass when the device is to be used in a stationary setting, but a pad112having a lesser mass when the device is to be transported. When the upper portion109and pad112are detached, the device may also function as a tee on which a baseball or softball can be placed.

In some embodiments, the post108is height-adjustable. This height adjustment allows the device to be used by a wide variety of batters, including children, teenagers, and adults of varying heights. In addition, height could be adjusted to allow the batters to practice hitting pitches or targets thrown at varying heights. Height adjustment could be accomplished by a number of ways, including, but not limited to, raising or lowering an upper portion109that slides into or out of a lower portion107of the post108, raising or lowering a lower portion107that slides into or out of a second upper portion109of the post108, or using a telescoping upper and lower portions of the post108. In embodiments, the desired height can be secured through an adjustable locking mechanism. The adjustable locking mechanism can operate through one or more of a pin that passes through one or more posts, a clamp that holds the height-adjustable post or posts in place, or by any other tightening or fastening mechanism available to those of skill in the art.

In some embodiments, the base plate102can be fitted with one or more weight holders126for adjustable weight resistance training. The one or more holders126can be in any form suitable for securing weights116to the base plate102during the follow-through motion. In one embodiment, the one or more weight holders126can comprise one or more pegs. Weights116are attached by placing each weight116on a peg via a hole in the weight116. In another embodiment, the one or more weight holders126are compartments, enclosed on one or more sides. In another embodiment, the one or more weight holders126can comprise one or more fasteners, including but not limited to elastic bands or a hook and loop fastener (e.g., Velcro®), that secure the one or more weights116to the base plate102. In another embodiment, one or more weight holders126can comprise a combination of one or more of a peg, a compartment, and a fastener.

Weight resistance training can also be accomplished by using resistance bands or springs to oppose pivoting of the base plate102. In embodiments, the weights, resistance bands or springs can be selected to vary the resistance to the pivoting of the base of the device100during the follow-through, and providing weight training as well as form evaluation and correction.

Referring toFIG. 3, in embodiments, the base plate102and stabilization plate104are side by side, rather than stacked as shown inFIG. 1. When the device100is hit, the stabilization plate104remains in contact with a surface supporting the device100for stability while the base plate102pivots as the batter follows through with the swing. While the base and stabilization plates are shown as generally rectangular and roughly equal in size, they can be any suitable size and shape. Indeed, the pivoting base can be any suitable shape that allows the base to rotate or pivot during the follow-through. As depicted inFIG. 5, in embodiments, the base plate102and stabilization plate104lie adjacent to each other, with each plate resting on the supporting surface when the device is in the resting state, and the base plate102pivots toward the stabilization plate104when the batter follows through with the swing, as shown inFIG. 3.

Turning now toFIGS. 4-7, in embodiments, the hitting practice device100includes an adjustable mock home plate118. The mock home plate118allows the batter to visualize where to stand with respect to the device100as if he or she were standing over an actual home plate. In embodiments, the mock home plate118is substantially the same size and shape as a home plate typically used in baseball or softball. In other embodiments, the mock home plate118may be another shape or size that allows the batter visualize where to stand with respect to the device. In embodiments, the position of the mock home plate118may be adjusted with respect to the hitting practice device100. The mock home plate118is connected to the device by an arm120, which comprises one or more segments. In embodiments, the arm120has one or more adjustable joints122. As depicted inFIG. 4, the adjustable joints122can be located at the point where the arm120and mock home plate118connect, the point where the arm120connects to the device, or at points between different segments of the arm120. The adjustable joints122allow the mock home plate118and arm120to pivot about the axes of the joints122, which are substantially vertical when the hitting practice device100is in the resting state, allowing the mock home plate118to be translated within a substantially horizontal plane. In embodiments, the joints122may comprise a bolt which can be tightened to secure the position of the mock home plate118. In other embodiments, the joints122comprise another mechanism available to those skilled in the art that allow the joints122to be adjusted when the device is not in use and secured when the device is in use. As shown inFIG. 4, in embodiments, the arm120connects to the device near the lower end of the post108, the connector110or the base plate102.

The adjustable mock home plate118assists the batter to practice hitting pitches directly over home plate, or to some degree closer to or farther from the batter. To train to hit pitches in the center of the strike zone, the mock home plate118can be aligned or positioned directly behind the post108with respect to the direction the base plate102pivots to train. To train to hit “outside” pitches, which are on the opposite side of strike zone as the batter, the mock home plate118can be adjusted to be closer to the batter with respect to the device, where the batter stands in the same position with respect to the mock home plate118but the device is farther away from the batter. To train to hit “inside” pitches, which are closer to the batter than the strike zone, the mock home plate118can be adjusted to be farther from the batter with respect to the device100, where the batter stands in the same position with respect to the mock home plate118, but the post108and pad112are closer to the batter.

Additionally, the adjustable mock home plate118assists the batter training to hit the ball in a certain direction. When the mock home plate118is positioned directly behind the post108with respect to the direction the base plate102pivots, as depicted inFIG. 4, the device will pivot straight forward from where the batter stands, simulating the motion of hitting the baseball or softball straight ahead. Alternatively, the mock home plate118may be positioned at an angle offset from the direction the base plate102pivots. In this case, the device will pivot an angle from where the batter stands, simulating the motion of hitting the baseball or softball at an angle, thus allowing the batter to aim the hit the baseball or softball in a certain direction. These aspects allow for the batter to train to hit pitches in different positions with respect to the strike zone in different directions as hitting strategy may suggest.

Referring again toFIGS. 5-7, embodiments of the hitting practice device100are depicted at the various stages or states in which the hitting practice device100is used during a hitting exercise, including, inFIG. 5, the resting state prior to the batter making contact with the device100, inFIG. 6, the intermediate state during the batter's follow-through when the batter is making contact with the pad112, and inFIG. 7, the stopped state at which the stopper prevents base plate102from pivoting further with respect to stabilization plate104.

FIG. 5depicts an embodiment of the hitting practice device100in the resting state, prior to when the bat makes contact with the device100. The mock home plate118is positioned directly behind the post108with respect to the direction of movement of the base plate102, indicating that the device100is to be hit straight forward. In this state, the batter assumes a batting stance relative to the device100, using the mock home plate118as a guide. The batter lines up so that the point of contact between the batter's bat and the pad112represents the point of contact between the batter's bat and a ball being pitched during a game-time situation. A batting coach can watch the batter from any angle offering advice and instruction at any point before, during or after the batter's swing. The pad112and impact dampener114absorb some of the impact of force applied by the bat to the device, which helps the batter avoid injury or strain caused by jarring during repeated hits against the device. In addition, the pad112and impact dampener114also halt the batter's swing. Once the batter makes contact with the pad112, the batter can pause. Optionally with the assistance of a coach or other player, the batter is able to review and correct the position of his or her feet, hips, arms, legs, or whole body while maintaining substantial contact between the bat and the pad112.

FIG. 6depicts an embodiment of the hitting practice device100in the intermediate state, during which the bat makes contact with the device. In this state, initial contact by the bat was made and the impact absorbed by the pad112and/or the impact dampener114. The hinge106allows the batter to push the bat against the pad112to follow-through after the point of contact, causing the base plate102to pivot relative to the stabilization plate104. In the embodiment ofFIG. 6, the base plate102pivots toward the stabilization plate104as the batter follows through with the swing.

FIG. 7depicts an embodiment of the hitting practice device100in the stopped state, where the stopper prevents the device100from pivoting further, after the bat has made contact with the device100. A limit in the hinge106acts as a stopper and prevents further rotation of the hinge106, causing the base plate102to stop pivoting with relative to the stabilization plate104. At this point, the base plate102has not pivoted beyond the recovery angle, so the base plate102will naturally fall back into the resting position depicted inFIG. 5.

FIG. 8depicts an embodiment of the device where the pad112and the upper portion109of the post108are detached and removed from the device. Here, the device100may be used as a tee upon which a baseball or softball can be placed. When using the device100as a tee, a batter places the baseball or softball upon the uppermost portion of the post108that has not been detached. The batter then assumes a stance relative the device and lines up such that the point of contact between the batter's bat and the ball placed on the device represents the point of contact between the batter's bat and a ball being pitched during a game-time situation.

Turning now toFIGS. 9A-9E, an embodiment of the hitting practice device100is depicted in use by a batter. InFIG. 9A, the device100is shown during the resting state prior to the batter making contact. InFIG. 9B, the batter makes initial contact with the pad112.FIG. 9Cshows the intermediate state during the batter's follow-through in which the base plate102pivots relative to the stabilization plate104. InFIG. 9D, the device100is shown in the stopped state at which the leg stopper124makes contact with the floor or ground, and inFIG. 9Ethe device100returns to the resting state after the batter ceases contact with the padding112during the follow-through.

At the resting state depicted inFIG. 9A, the batter assumes a batting stance relative to the device. The batter lines up so that the point of contact between the batter's bat and the pad112represents the point of contact between the batter's bat and a ball being pitched during a game-time situation. A batting coach can watch the batter from any angle offering advice and instruction at any point before, during or after the batter's swing.FIG. 9Bdepicts the state at which the batter makes initial contact with the pad112. The pad112and impact dampener114absorb some of the impact of force applied by the bat to the device, which helps the batter avoid injury or strain caused by jarring during repeated hits against the device. Once the batter makes contact with the pad112, the batter can pause. Optionally with the assistance of a coach or other player, the batter is able to review and correct the position of his or her feet, hips, arms, legs, and/or whole body while maintaining substantial contact between the bat and the pad112. Following review and any correction made, the batter then enters the intermediate state, as depicted inFIG. 9C, in which the batter follows through and completes the swinging motion by pushing against the pad112with the bat. The batter is able to extend past the initial point of contact completing the rotation of their body and movement of the bat, rather than forcing the batter to end their swing at the point of contact. The stopper leg124then prevents the device100from toppling over, as depicted inFIG. 9D, by making contact with the ground or floor once the base plate102reaches its maximum pivoting angle (e.g., the recovery angle). The weight distribution on the device100, aided by gravity, then causes the base plate102to pivot back and return the device100to its resting state, as depicted inFIG. 9E. The batter can then repeat these steps one or more additional times, as needed, without the need to manually readjust or reset the device100in between hits and follow-throughs.

Turning now toFIG. 10, another embodiment of the hitting practice device100a-cis shown, with a stopper leg124. As depicted, the stopper leg124prevents the hitting practice device100a-cfrom rotating beyond the recovery angle. InFIG. 10, the device100ais shown first in the resting state, with a stopper leg124attached to the post108. Next, the device100bis shown in the intermediate state, where the batter has made contact and the post108rotates relative to the surface on which the device100brests. Finally, the device100cis shown in the stopped state, where the stopper leg124has made contact with the ground or surface on which the device100crests. Here, the stopper leg124prevents the base plate102and device100cfrom rotating past the recovery angle. In other embodiments, the stopper leg124can be attached to the base plate itself, and can be implemented in the same manner as a door stop. In another embodiment, the stopper can be a chain, cord or other attachment between the base plate102and the stabilization plate that controls the angle between the base plate102and stabilization plate104and prevents the base plate102from rotating past the recovery angle.