Abstract:
A sports training apparatus for launching sports balls. The sports training apparatus has the ability to launch a sports ball, such as, for example, a soccer ball or a volleyball, at various power levels, at many different angles, with many different types of spin, and can be remotely controlled or programmed with a pre-determined launching pattern. The ball projecting mechanism launches a sports ball by way of a striking leg member which is powered by a compressible spring and detent rod assembly.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    The present invention relates to sports training apparatuses for launching a sports ball, and more specifically to improvements in traditional sports ball launching apparatuses. In particular, the invention relates to a sports training apparatus with the ability to launch a ball, such as, for example, a soccer ball or a volleyball, at a plurality of power levels, at a plurality of different angles, with a plurality of different types of spin, and can be remotely controlled or programmed with a pre-determined launching pattern. Additionally, the sports training apparatus can be powered by batteries allowing for use in remote locations. 
         [0002]    The present invention is an improvement over U.S. Pat. No. 5,911,214 issued Jun. 15, 1999 wherein a soccer ball projecting apparatus is disclosed. Further developments have been revealed that outline the need for the production of an upgraded ball projecting apparatus. For a ready understanding of the current state of the soccer ball projecting apparatus, the reader is directed to U.S. Pat. No. 5,911,214. 
         [0003]    To become proficient at any sport, it is necessary to practice for countless amounts of hours to be able to develop the skills to perform difficult fast paced moves with split second timing and accuracy. Not only is there a need to repeatedly practice a single manoeuvre a multitude of times to become proficient, but there is also a need to practice a series of different maneuvers in succession to simulate real in-game situations. Generally, in traditional sports ball launching devices, the apparatus is only capable of providing a single repetitive launch type unless the specific settings are manually changed between launches, which does not accurately represent true in game situations. Different launch type settings may include projecting the sports ball at different power levels, at different angles (i.e., different directions) and with different spins on the ball (i.e. ability to curve the sports ball). 
         [0004]    United States Patent Application No. 2008/0032828 published Feb. 7, 2008 (Alger) discloses a system for delivering objects, such as soccer balls for training purposes. The delivery device includes an accelerator that accepts, accelerates and launches the ball with motion characteristics, such as linear acceleration, angular acceleration, or a combination of both. The balls are accelerated using a fly wheel system similar to most baseball pitching machines. The assembly adjusts the position of the accelerator to adjust the exit trajectory of the object including adjustment about the yaw axis, elevation axis and a spin axis of the ball. The device can be remotely controlled wirelessly through a radio frequency receiver and transmitter. The delivery device also includes an electronic control system having stored training programs for selective use and executed in either pre-programmed or real-time-selected sequences. Additionally, the power source is portable utilizing one or more rechargeable batteries. 
         [0005]    U.S. Pat. No. 6,488,020 issued Dec. 3, 2002 (Rosas-Magallan) discloses a training machine which projects soccer balls by means of propelling wheels. The machine propels balls with a maximum degree of freedom in selecting ball trajectories at various angles, distances and velocities. An electrical control regulates the speed of each of the propelling wheels, providing a variety of spin control to the ball. 
         [0006]    United States Patent Application No. 2005/0103318 published May 19, 2005 (Leal et al.) discloses a sports ball throwing apparatus utilizing compressed air to project the sports ball. The apparatus is adjustable in both the azimuth and elevation for launching in various directions and also has a means for adding a spin to the sports ball. 
         [0007]    United States Patent Application No. 2002/0185120 published Dec. 12, 2002 (Scott) discloses a baseball pitching system for allowing an individual to operate a baseball pitching machine similar to an actual human pitcher. The system includes a central processing unit which manipulates the velocity of the pitching wheels to create the desired pitch. Pre-programmed pitching sequences and random pitching sequences may be entered into the system central processing unit. 
         [0008]    The present invention was conceived and developed having regard to the known prior art and with the purpose of providing an improved sports training apparatus with the ability to project a ball, and more specifically, a soccer ball or a volleyball, at a plurality of power levels, at a plurality of different angles, with a plurality of different types of spin, and can be remotely controlled or programmed with a pre-determined launching pattern. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0009]    It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a sports training apparatus for launching sports balls. 
         [0010]    In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for casting a sports ball for training purposes, the apparatus including a platform; a frame rotatably mounted on the platform; a ball projecting means mounted on the frame for casting a sports ball in a manner suitable for various training exercises; and a remote control and programming means for actuating the ball projecting means for casting the sports ball according to the desired training exercise. 
         [0011]    According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sports training apparatus for launching sports balls comprising a horizontal base-frame, a main-frame pivotally mounted on the base-frame, a rotating linear actuator with built-in linear resistor affixed to the base-frame and to the main-frame for rotating the main-frame with respect to the base-frame within a horizontal plane above the base-frame upon extension or retraction of the rotating linear actuator with built-in linear resistor, a means for projecting a sports ball mounted on the main-frame, a means for supporting a sports ball mounted on the main-frame in operational association with the means for projecting a sports ball, a function controlling means, a plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems, a sports training apparatus controlling means, and a power supply means. The means for projecting a sports ball comprises an arcuate structure having a first end pivotally connected to a pair of support members having a common axis of rotation and the support members being rigidly affixed to the main-frame, a lobbing linear actuator with built-in linear resistor connected to the arcuate structure and to the main-frame for adjusting a radial orientation of the arcuate structure about the common axis of rotation for optionally changing an impact point on a sports ball by the ball striking means when the sports ball is supported by the means for supporting a sports ball, a ball striking means comprising a striking leg member having a first end pivotally connected to the arcuate structure for pendulous movement along a striking path along a plane, a compressing linear actuator with built-in linear resistor connected to the arcuate structure and having a linear motion along the plane of the striking leg member, and a compressible spring and detent rod assembly connected between a second end of the arcuate structure and the striking leg member for moving the striking leg member along the striking path between a cocked position and a striking position and vice-versa upon extension of the compressing linear actuator with built-in linear resistor. The compressible spring and detent rod assembly comprises a means to store potential energy, at least one detent rod, and a latching mechanism for engaging the at least one detent rod at one of a plurality of detents on the at least one detent rod for retaining the striking leg member in the cocked position. The means for supporting a sports ball comprises a sports ball support cup, a horizontal axis, a vertical axis, a vertical motion linear actuator with built-in linear resistor, and a horizontal motion linear actuator with built-in linear resistor for varying a point of impact against the sports ball to impart a spin and a curving trajectory to the sports ball. The sports training apparatus controlling means relays input signals from the sports training apparatus controlling means and translates them into output signals causing the plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems to perform a desired function. The sports training apparatus controlling means, the plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems are powered by the power supply means. 
         [0012]    In accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a sports training apparatus for launching sports balls comprising: a horizontal base-frame; a main-frame pivotally mounted on said base-frame; a rotating linear actuator with built-in linear resistor affixed to said base-frame and to said main-frame for rotating said main-frame with respect to said base-frame within a horizontal plane above said base-frame upon extension or retraction of said rotating linear actuator with built-in linear resistor; a means for projecting a sports ball mounted on said main-frame; a means for supporting a sports ball mounted on said main-frame in operational association with said means for projecting a sports ball; a function controlling means; a plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems; a sports training apparatus controlling means; and a power supply means; said means for projecting a sports ball comprises: an arcuate structure having a first end pivotally connected to a pair of support members having a common axis of rotation and said support members being rigidly affixed to said main-frame; a lobbing linear actuator with built-in linear resistor connected to said arcuate structure and to said main-frame for adjusting a radial orientation of said arcuate structure about said common axis of rotation for optionally changing an impact point on a sports ball by said ball striking means when said sports ball is supported by said means for supporting a sports ball; a ball striking means comprising a striking leg member having a first end pivotally connected to said arcuate structure for pendulous movement along a striking path along a plane; a compressing linear actuator with built-in linear resistor connected to said arcuate structure and having a linear motion along said plane of said striking leg member; and a compressible spring and detent assembly connected between a second end of said arcuate structure and said striking leg member for moving said striking leg member along said striking path between a cocked position and a striking position and vice-versa upon extension of said compressing linear actuator with built-in linear resistor; said compressible spring and detent assembly comprises a means to store potential energy, at least one rod, a telescoping tube extending parallel to the rod, the telescoping tube being connected to the rod for simultaneous movement with the rod, and a latching mechanism for engaging a plurality of detents disposed on the telescoping tube for retaining said striking leg member in said cocked position; said means for supporting a sports ball comprises a sports ball support cup, a horizontal axis, a vertical axis, a vertical motion linear actuator with built-in linear resistor, and a horizontal motion linear actuator with built-in linear resistor for varying a point of impact against said sports ball to impart a spin and a curving trajectory to said sports ball; wherein said sports training apparatus controlling means relays input signals from said sports training apparatus controlling means and translates them into output signals causing said plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems to perform a desired function; wherein said sports training apparatus controlling means, said plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems are powered by said power supply means. 
         [0013]    Preferably, the telescoping tube includes an outer tube member and an inner tube member, the inner tube member being slidably movable inside the outer tube member, and the inner tube member being connected to the rod. 
         [0014]    Preferably, the latching mechanism comprises one or more pulleys and a cable, the cable being connected to a trigger release bracket which is activated by the rearward motion of the linear actuator for urging upwardly a sliding latch of the latching mechanism from the detents on the telescoping tube. 
         [0015]    In accordance to a first aspect of the present invention the sports training apparatus of the present invention comprises broadly, a horizontal base-frame having wheels affixed thereto for movement of the apparatus and a main-frame which is movably mounted on the base-frame. The main-frame supports a mechanism for projecting a sports ball, and a sports ball support cup assembly for supporting a sports ball in operational association with the mechanism for projecting a sports ball. 
         [0016]    Preferably, the mechanism for projecting a sports ball comprises an arcuate structure which is adjustable about a pair of horizontal pivots affixed to a pair of ball projecting mechanism support members. The mechanism also comprises a lobbing linear actuator connected to the arcuate structure for adjusting a radial orientation of the arcuate structure about a common axis of the horizontal pivots, for changing the orientation of the arcuate structure for optionally lobbing a sports ball. 
         [0017]    The mechanism for projecting a sports ball further preferably comprises a striking leg member having a striking path oriented toward the common axis of both horizontal pivots, and the common axis is oriented through a sports ball when the sports ball is being supported by the support cup assembly, such that the radial orientation of the striking leg member, and the striking path thereof are adjustable to aim toward a centre of the sports ball, from various positions of the arcuate structure about the common axis. 
         [0018]    In accordance to another aspect of the present invention, the apparatus further preferably comprises a rotating linear actuator for rotating the main-frame within a horizontal plane above the base-frame. The ball projecting mechanism is thereby able to rotate left and right from center approximately 80° allowing the sports training apparatus to project balls to players in a wide horizontal area without displacing the sports training apparatus on the playing surface. 
         [0019]    In accordance to a further aspect of the present invention, the striking leg member has a first end pivotally connected to the arcuate structure for pendulous movement of the striking leg member along a striking path. The ball projecting mechanism further comprises a compressing linear actuator mounted on the top side at the rear of the arcuate structure and having a linear motion in the same plane as the striking leg member. The ball projecting mechanism further comprises a compressible spring and detent rod assembly pivotally connected to both the striking leg member and the bottom side at the rear of the arcuate structure for moving the leg member along the striking path between a striking position and a cocked position, upon extension of the compressing linear actuator. Optionally, the ball projecting mechanism may comprise a plurality of compressing linear actuators. The compressible spring and detent rod assembly preferably comprises two springs, two detent rods and a latching mechanism that engages the detent rods at a plurality of fixed points ensuring that the springs remain compressed until the sports ball is launched, each of the fixed points on the detent rods represent a different power level setting as a result of the potential energy stored in the springs. Optionally, the compressible spring and detent rod assembly may comprise at least one spring and at least one detent rod. 
         [0020]    In the ball projecting mechanism of the present the invention, it is preferable that the compressible springs of the compressible spring and detent rod assembly are compressible bushings. The use of compressible bushings have an advantage in that they are stackable allowing for the ability to further modify the force levels of the striking leg member and would eliminate the need to acquire custom made springs. 
         [0021]    Preferably, the plurality of linear actuators in the present invention each has a built-in linear resistor. The linear resistors allow a sports training apparatus controlling means, such as, for example a microcontroller, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or the like, to monitor and control the movement of the plurality of linear actuators to within an accuracy of approximately 1/1000 of an inch (25.4 μm). 
         [0022]    In the projecting mechanism of the present invention, the striking leg member is movable from a striking position to a cocked position upon extension of the compressing linear actuator and compression of the spring and detent rod assembly. The leg member is adapted to be retained in the cocked position by the detent rods and the latching mechanism. 
         [0023]    In accordance to yet another aspect of the present invention, preferably there is provided in the apparatus, a plurality of electronic controls and electric drive systems for operating the operational functions of the sports training apparatus. There is also provided a pair of rechargeable batteries mounted on the main-frame for supplying electrical power to the plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems. There is also provided a readout display indicating the level of charge remaining on the pair of rechargeable batteries. 
         [0024]    In accordance to yet another aspect of the present invention, preferably there is provided a solar charging system for charging the rechargeable batteries prolonging the use of the apparatus in a given practice session. The solar charging system comprises at least one solar panel and is electrically connected to the rechargeable batteries allowing for a constant trickle charge when exposed to external sources of light. 
         [0025]    In the sports training apparatus of the present invention, preferably there is provided a sports training apparatus controlling means for controlling the plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems and is powered by the rechargeable batteries. 
         [0026]    In the sports training apparatus of the present invention, preferably there is provided an external remote control, with secondary controls on the apparatus, for providing input signals to the sports training apparatus controlling means to control the apparatus. The sports training apparatus controlling means relays input signals from a user via the external remote control or the secondary controls and translates them into output signals causing the plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems to perform the desired function. The external remote control comprises a joystick for changing the trajectory (direction) of the sports ball, and a plurality of buttons or control knobs for modifying various settings or for carrying out various functions, such as, for example: 
         [0027]    an on/off button for turning the sports training apparatus on or off; 
         [0028]    an emergency stop button to power down the sports training apparatus; 
         [0029]    a reset button to cause all the components of the sports training apparatus to move to an arbitrary rest position; 
         [0030]    a load button for loading a ball on the support cup;\ 
         [0031]    a pre-load control function for pre-loading the projecting mechanism; 
         [0032]    a lob function to add more or less lob to the trajectory of the ball; 
         [0033]    a spin function to move the support cup laterally to increase or decrease the spin of a ball; 
         [0034]    a save ball trajectory function; 
         [0035]    a program function to load a saved program; 
         [0036]    a ball launch button to cause the sports training apparatus to launch a sports ball; and 
         [0037]    a mode of operation function, to operate the sports training apparatus in for example, a Manual, Automatic or pre-Program mode. 
         [0038]    The external remote control of the present invention is preferably a touch-screen remote, wherein the joystick and the plurality of buttons or control knobs are replaced, for example, by up/down/left/right touch-screen buttons for changing the trajectory and touch-screen buttons for modifying the various settings representing the same as those exemplified above, respectively. Optionally, the external remote control is wireless. 
         [0039]    The secondary controls located on the sports training apparatus preferably comprise the same functions as the external remote control as well as additional functions, such as, for example: 
         [0040]    an on/off switch for turning the sports training apparatus on or off; and 
         [0041]    a plurality of emergency stop switches to halt a program in progress. 
         [0042]    Preferably, in the sports training apparatus controlling means of the present invention there is stored thereon a plurality of programs. The programs include, for example, a save ball trajectory program, a manual mode program, a pre-programmed mode program, an automatic mode program and a plurality of safety feature programs. 
         [0043]    In accordance to yet another aspect of the present invention, preferably there is provided a safety braking system. The safety braking system is connected to a towing handle, whereby when the towing handle is in a substantially vertical position brakes on the rear wheels are engaged, and when the towing handle is lowered for towing brakes on the rear wheels are disengaged. 
         [0044]    In accordance to yet another aspect of the present invention, preferably there is provided a spring release safety mechanism. The spring release safety mechanism is used if the apparatus fails and the spring loaded arm is in a cocked position, thus leaving a compressive force on the springs and making it hazardous to repair. To release the potential energy in the springs a manual release trigger is provided at the back of the compressible spring and detent rod assembly that will release the latch from the detents on the detent rods or on the telescoping tube, which will then trigger the firing mechanism and release the potential energy stored in the springs. 
         [0045]    According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of launching a sports ball according to the sports training apparatus for launching sports balls as defined herein comprising the steps of: 
         [0046]    a) loading the sports ball onto the sports ball support cup; 
         [0047]    b) positioning the sports ball support cup using the vertical motion linear actuator with built-in linear resistor and the horizontal motion linear actuator with built-in linear resistor to impart a desired spin on the sports ball; 
         [0048]    c) radially positioning the means for projecting a sports ball to effect a desired arcing path of the sports ball; 
         [0049]    d) extending the compressing linear actuator with built-in linear resistor to compress and store a potential energy in the means to store potential energy to strike the sports ball with a desired force; 
         [0050]    e) retracting the compressing linear actuator with built-in linear resistor while the striking leg member is kept in the cocked position by the latching mechanism on one of the plurality of detents on the at least one detent rod; and 
         [0051]    f) releasing the potential energy stored in the means to store potential energy causing the striking leg member to strike the sports ball. 
         [0052]    Various aspects of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment, when read in light of the accompanying drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0053]    Embodiments of the present invention will be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: 
           [0054]      FIG. 1  is a three-dimensional perspective view of the sports training apparatus for launching sports balls of an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0055]      FIG. 2  is a side perspective view of the sports training apparatus for launching sports balls of an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0056]      FIGS. 3   a  and  3   b  are perspective views of the compressible spring and detent rod assembly of an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0057]      FIG. 4  is a side view of the sports training apparatus for launching sports ball showing the movement of the members of the ball projecting mechanism moving into a cocked position; 
           [0058]      FIG. 5   a - 5   c  are side views of the ball support cup assembly of an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0059]      FIGS. 6   a  and  6   b  are perspective views of sports ball storage ramp of an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0060]      FIG. 7  is a side view of the control gate for automatically loading a sports ball on the support cup; 
           [0061]      FIGS. 8   a  and  8   b  are a perspective view and a top plan view respectively of a compressible spring and detent assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0062]      FIG. 9   a  is a cross sectional view of the spring and detent assembly shown in  FIG. 8   b  along line A-A; and 
           [0063]      FIG. 9   b  is en exploded view of region F shown in  FIG. 9   a.    
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
       [0064]    A better understanding of the present invention and its objects and advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein there is described only the preferred embodiment of the invention, simply by way of illustration of the best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of modifications in various obvious respects, all without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Accordingly, the description should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive. 
         [0065]    Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 2 . The sports training apparatus  20  comprises a horizontal rectangular base-frame  40  supported by wheels  30 ,  32  and a main-frame  42  movably mounted on the base-frame  40  about a vertical axis  44 . The main-frame  42  has a pair of spaced-apart upright front members  60  and a pair spaced-apart upright rear members  62 . The main-frame  42  is supported by a pivot member  46 , such as, for example, a pivoting flange, affixed to the base-frame  40 , and is movable about the vertical axis  44  by means of a rotating linear actuator  48 . The sports training apparatus has an enclosure  26  for protecting the interior components of the sports training apparatus  20  from precipitations, dust and the like, and for safely covering the mechanism when in use. 
         [0066]    The main-frame  42  supports a sports ball storage ramp  64  above the ball projecting mechanism  28 , the main-frame  42  also provides support for the enclosure  26 . The enclosure  26  has an opening  66  in the top surface thereof communicating with an inlet portion  68  of the storage ramp  64  for loading the storage ramp  64  with a plurality of sports balls. 
         [0067]    A pair of ball projecting mechanism support members  45  supports a ball support cup assembly  70 . The ball projecting mechanism  28  is pivotally mounted between the pair of ball projecting mechanism support members  45  and is movable about a transversal horizontal axis  36 . The ball projecting mechanism  28  comprises an arcuate structure  80  having its front end connected to the axis  36  and its rear end connected to a lobbing linear actuator  82 . A striking leg member  84  is pivotally connected to the arcuate structure  80 , at pivot  86 . The striking leg member  84  is operable back and forth by way of a compressible spring and detent rod assembly  88  and a compressing linear actuator  90 . The striking leg member  84  has a boot  98  on its lower end for contacting a sports ball  38 . The boot  98  has concentric grooves on its striking surface for providing a better grip on the ball. The boot is preferably made of aluminum, and covered with a coating of urethane. 
         [0068]      FIGS. 3   a  and  3   b  show an embodiment of the compressible spring and detent rod assembly  88 . The compressible spring and detent rod assembly  88  comprises a pair of springs  150 , a pair of detent rods  152  and a latching mechanism  154 . The latching of the striking leg member  84  into the cocked position is effected by extending the compressing linear actuator  90  such that the compressing linear actuator  90  pushes the upper portion of the striking leg member  84  causing the striking leg member to rotate around axis  86  to compress the compressible spring and detent rod assembly  88  causing the latching mechanism  154  to progressively latch onto the detents of detent rods  152  according to the desired compression of the springs  150 . The arrows in  FIG. 4  depict the movement of the members of the ball projecting mechanism  28  moving into a cocked position. 
         [0069]    Referring now to  FIGS. 8   a  and  8   b , shown is another preferred embodiment of the compressible spring and detent assembly  88 , including a pair of springs  150  and a pair of rods  152 . A front bearing  171  and a rear  172  bearing support the rod  152 . The spring member  150  has a front end  173  adapted to receive a bolt and nut system  170  for connecting the two front end portions  173  of the springs  150 . A telescoping tube assembly can be disposed in between the two rods  152 , the telescope tube including a fixed outer tube member  176  and a slidable inner tube member  175 , the inner tube member  175  extending forwardly parallel to the springs  150 . The inner tube member  175  has a front end  174  which is adapted to receive the bolt  170  for connection to the springs  152  for simultaneously movement of the inner tube member  175  with the parallel springs  152 . 
         [0070]      FIG. 9   a  is a cross-sectional view of the compressible spring and detent assembly  88  shown in  FIG. 8   b  along line A-A. The inner tube member  175  is illustrated in a retracted or latched position inside the outer tube member  176  of the telescoping tube assembly. 
         [0071]    The latching of the striking leg member  84  into a cocked position is effected by extending the compressing linear actuator  90  such that a front end  178  of the compressing linear actuator  90  pushes the upper portion of the striking leg member  84  causing the striking leg member to rotate around axis  86  to compress the compressible spring and detent assembly  88 . During the compression of the spring and detent assembly  88  the rods  150  and the inner tube member  175  move rearward with the inner tube member  175  being retracted inside the outer tube member  176  of the telescoping tube assembly for compressing the springs  152 . A latching mechanism includes a series of recesses or detents disposed, preferably, on the upper face of the inner tube member  175 , which are used in connection with a sliding latch  177  to progressively retain the inner tube member  175  and the springs  152  at a desired compressed position according to the level of elastic energy to be released. The energy release can be actuated by urging the sliding latch upwardly from the locking position inside the recess or detent through a pulley and cable system including a set of pulleys  179  and a cable  180 . 
         [0072]      FIG. 9   b  shows an exploded region F of  FIG. 9   a  further illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the locking portion of the sliding latch  177 , which includes a bolt  181 , a locking sleeve  182 , and a locking sleeve spacer  183 . The cable  180  is illustrated attached to a flange projecting of the sliding latch  177 . As the linear actuator  90  moves rearward it will get to appoint when the end of the cylinder bracket engages the trigger release bracket that holds one end of the cable. Continuing to move rearward, the linear actuator  90  pulls the cable which in turn urges the sliding latch  177  upwardly in order to disengage the locking portion thereof from the recess or detent disposed on the inner telescoping tube  175 , and, thus, releasing the elastic energy in the spring  152  and propelling the kicking arm forward to engage the ball for projection as desired. 
         [0073]    The plurality of linear actuators in the present invention each has a built-in linear resistor. The linear resistors allow a microcontroller  106  to monitor and control the movement of the plurality of linear actuators to within an accuracy of approximately 1/1000 of an inch (25.4 μm). It will be appreciated that the length that the compressing linear actuator  90  is extended is directly related to the degree of compression on the springs of the compressible spring and detent rod assembly  88 , and is directly related to the force with which the ball will be stricken by the striking leg member  84 . 
         [0074]    The microcontroller  106  is preferably mounted on the upright rear members  62  and above a pair of 12V rechargeable batteries  108  supported on the rear end of the main-frame  42 . The rechargeable batteries  108  supply electrical power to the plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems of the sports training apparatus. The rechargeable batteries  108  are connected in series to provide a total potential of 24V and in a preferred embodiment can be re-charged via an external source, such as, for example, a golf cart charging system. 
         [0075]    The sports training apparatus  20  of a preferred embodiment further comprises a solar charging system for charging the rechargeable batteries  108  prolonging the use of the apparatus in a given practice session. The solar charging system comprises at least one solar panel affixed to the outside of the enclosure  26  and is electrically connected to the rechargeable batteries  108  allowing for a constant trickle charge when exposed to external sources of light. 
         [0076]    The lobbing linear actuator  82  is mounted between the rechargeable batteries  108  and is connected to the rear end of the arcuate structure  80  for raising and lowering the arcuate structure  80  and for correspondingly lobbing the sports ball  38  with more or less height. 
         [0077]    Referring now to  FIGS. 5   a  to  5   c , there is illustrated therein the ball support cup  130  for supporting a sports ball  38  within the striking path of the striking leg member  84 . The sports ball  38  is preferably supported on a concave rubber cup  130  which is affixed to a movable vertical bar  132 . The vertical bar is in turn mounted in a drive block  134  which is movably mounted on a horizontal bar  136 . The horizontal bar  136  is affixed to the upright front members  60  of the main-frame  42 . There are also provided on the slide block  134 , a fourth and fifth linear actuator (not shown) for engaging with the horizontal bar  136  and the vertical bar  132  respectively, for moving the slide block  134  and the support cup  130  relative to the main-frame  42 . 
         [0078]    The adjustment of the sports ball  38  in lateral directions relative to the main-frame  42  is useful for varying the point of impact of the boot  98  against the sports ball  38 , to impart a spin and a curving trajectory to the ball. The action of the fourth and fifth linear actuators causes the cup  130  to raise or lower or move to left or right, to optionally impart a combination of a lob trajectory and vertical or horizontal spinning motion to the sports ball being launched by the sports training apparatus  20 . 
         [0079]    A sports ball storage ramp  64  and control gate  146  are also provided for automatically loading a sports ball on the support cup  130 . The storage ramp and control gate are separately illustrated in  FIGS. 6   a ,  6   b  and  7 , respectively. The storage ramp  64  has a rectangular helix shape and covers a full turn inside the enclosure  26  of the sports training apparatus  20 . The control gate  146  is positioned above the low end of the ramp and is operated by a solenoid actuator  148  to let one ball at a time fall onto the support cup  130 . 
         [0080]    The operation of the sports training apparatus  20  of a preferred embodiment is primarily controlled by an external remote control (not shown), with secondary controls on the apparatus itself. The external remote control of the apparatus communicates with the microcontroller  106  by means of an electrical cable having a substantial length such that the apparatus is controllable from a distance, in a preferred embodiment the external remote control communicates with the microcontroller  106  via wireless connectivity, such as, for example, Bluetooth™ or Wi-Fi. The external remote control comprises a joystick for changing the trajectory (direction) of the ball, and a plurality of buttons and/or control knobs for modifying various settings having the following, but not limited to, designated functions: 
         [0081]    an on/off button for turning the sports training apparatus  20  on or off; 
         [0082]    an emergency stop button to power down the sports training apparatus  20 ; 
         [0083]    a reset button to cause all the components of the sports training apparatus  20  to move to an arbitrary rest position; 
         [0084]    a load button for loading a ball on the support cup  130 ; 
         [0085]    a pre-load control function for pre-loading the projecting mechanism  28  to any gradient of a maximum force; 
         [0086]    a lob function to add more or less lob to the trajectory of the ball; 
         [0087]    a spin function to move the support cup  130  laterally and increase or decrease the spin of a ball; 
         [0088]    a save ball trajectory function; 
         [0089]    a program button to load a saved program; and 
         [0090]    a ball launch button to cause the sports training apparatus  20  to launch a sports ball  38 ; and 
         [0091]    a mode of operation function, to operate the sports training apparatus  20  in for example, a Manual, Automatic or pre-Program mode. 
         [0092]    The secondary controls located on the sports training apparatus  20  preferably comprise the same functions as the external remote control as well as additional functions, such as, for example: 
         [0093]    an on/off switch for turning the sports training apparatus  20  on or off; and 
         [0094]    a plurality of emergency stop switches to halt a program in progress. 
         [0095]    The secondary controls of a preferred embodiment include a readout display indicating the level of charge remaining on the pair of rechargeable batteries  108 . 
         [0096]    The microcontroller  106  is electrically connected to the plurality of electronic control and electronic drive systems used for controlling the operational functions of the sports training apparatus  20 . The microcontroller  106  relays input signals from a user via the external remote control or the secondary controls and translates them into output signals causing the electronic control and electronic drive systems to perform the desired function. 
         [0097]    The microcontroller  106  of a preferred embodiment has a save ball trajectory program stored thereon. The save ball trajectory program causes the microcontroller  106  to store the specific settings (i.e. power level, direction and spin) of the last sports ball launch for use at a future time, or to create a pre-programmed sequence of launches. 
         [0098]    The microcontroller  106  of a preferred embodiment has a plurality of mode operation programs stored thereon. The plurality of mode of operation programs include, but are not limited to, a manual mode, a pre-programmed mode and an automatic mode. The manual mode program causes the sports training apparatus to perform the user&#39;s inputs in real-time. The pre-programmed mode program causes the sports training apparatus to perform a sequence of previously saved ball trajectory launches. The automatic mode program causes the sports training apparatus to perform a random sequence of ball trajectory launches. 
         [0099]    The sports training apparatus  20  of a preferred embodiment has a plurality of safety features causing the system to stop running as long as at least one of the safety features has been triggered. The safety features include, but are not limited to: 
         [0100]    emergency stop buttons located on the external remote control and on the sports training apparatus  20 ; 
         [0101]    no ball present on the ball support cup  130 ; 
         [0102]    object present in front the sports training apparatus  20 ; 
         [0103]    enclosure panel missing switches; and 
         [0104]    low charge detection. 
         [0105]    A first proximity sensor may be provided on a guide bar  144  near the sports ball support cup  130  for determining if a sports ball is present on the cup  130 . 
         [0106]    A second proximity sensor may be provided on the front of the sports training apparatus enclosure  26  for determining if an object is present within a pre-determined distance in front of the apparatus. 
         [0107]    Activation switches may be provided on the base-frame  40  and main-frame  42  for determining if the enclosure panels of the enclosure  26  are properly installed. 
         [0108]    The sports training apparatus  20  of a preferred embodiment further comprises a towing handle; it will allow the user to either pull the apparatus by hand or tow the apparatus with a vehicle, such as, a golf cart or an all-terrain-vehicle (ATV). When in a stationary position a spring mechanism will ensure that the towing handle is in a substantially vertical position and when in the substantially vertical position the towing handle will engage a braking system on the rear wheels  32 . When the towing handle is lowered for towing the apparatus the braking system will disengage; thus allowing the apparatus to move freely. 
         [0109]    The sports training apparatus  20  of a preferred embodiment further comprises a compressible spring and detent rod assembly safety release mechanism. During operation the apparatus is able to launch a sports balls via the ball projecting mechanism  28 , if the apparatus fails, for example, due to a low charge detection or jamming of the ball projecting mechanism  28 , the spring loaded striking leg member  84  is in a cocked position, thus leaving a compressive force on the springs and making it hazardous to repair. To release the potential energy in the springs a manual release trigger  156  is provided at the back of the compressible spring and detent rod assembly that will release the latch from the detents on the detent rods or on the telescoping tube, which will then trigger the ball projecting mechanism  28  and release the potential energy stored in the springs. 
         [0110]    Microcontrollers and FPGAs are commonly known in the art, and are not specific to the present invention. Thus, it will be known to one skilled in the art how to integrate and operate such a device together with the sports training apparatus described  20  herein. 
         [0111]    Proximity sensors and activation switches are commonly known in the art, and are not specific to the present invention. Thus, it will be known to one skilled in the art how to integrate and operate such devices together with the microcontroller  106  and the sports training apparatus  20  described herein. 
         [0112]    Wireless connectivity is commonly known in the art, and is not specific to the present invention. Thus, it will be known to one skilled in the art how to integrate and operate such a device together with the microcontroller  106  and external remote control described herein. 
         [0113]    While the above description provides a full and complete disclosure of a preferred embodiment of this invention, various modifications, alternate constructions and equivalents may be employed without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention. Such changes might involve alternate materials, components, structural arrangements, sizes, operational features or the like. Therefore, the above description and accompanying illustrations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention which is defined in the appended claims.