Patent Publication Number: US-2023133642-A1

Title: Sports field marking assembly and method of marking a surface

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to a sports field marking assembly and method of marking a ground surface, and, more particularly, relates to a marking assembly that forms a desired boundary reference point, pattern, boundary, and/or field line in a variety of configurations as desired by the user. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Typically, sporting events are played on a field or gymnasium that has markings to delineate boundaries, distances, and goals. These markings must have accurate field measurements to ensure fair game play. The integrity of the game requires that the field lines are drawn in accurate geometry and dimensions. Usually, a field maintenance crew installs the lines and boundary markers with pegs or posts and paint markings on the field. This can require a portable marking mechanism that is easily visible across a large field, and is accurate in measurements. Secondly, sports coaches use various sizes of plastic cones, flags, stakes, poles, low-profile hurdles, and other practice equipment to set visual cues, obstacles, and training aids for athletes to complete a particular exercise or drill. 
     The prior art teaches various systems for marking playing fields. However, such prior art lacks the ability to anchor multiple field markers into the ground with a spring-loaded injection body, and form a pattern, such as demarcation boundaries and field lines, with an attached measuring tape that is guided through one or more aligners positioned across the surface of the field in an effective or efficient manner. Similarly, prior art allows coaches to place cones as obstacles or as a training aid for athletes; however, these are not anchored to the turf, so they are easily disrupted, and are often an impediment to the exercise or drill because they constantly have to be reset, and often deflect balls (e.g. in a soccer passing or dribbling drill, in a baseball fielding drill, or in a field hockey exercise). 
     Therefore, a need exists to overcome the problems with the prior art as discussed above. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention provides a sports field marking assembly and method of marking a surface that is configured for efficiently and accurately creating a boundary reference point and field lines of the type commonly appearing on a sports field and for creating layouts that coaches use for sports drills and activities. The sports field marking assembly provides a marker anchoring device that is loaded with a plurality of field markers. The marker anchoring device comprises a translatable handle coupled to a spring-loaded piston that work together to forcibly discharge the field markers into the surface of the sports field. In this manner, the field markers are adapted to discharge from the marker anchoring device, and securely anchor into the sports field in an efficient manner. The field markers anchor in a desired pattern on the sports field, creating a boundary reference point and field lines, of the type commonly appearing on sports field or obstacles, visual cues, aids, or reference points for a particular coaching activity. 
     The field markers comprise a marker body defining a bullet-shape or similar design shape intended to easily penetrate grass field surfaces. The configuration of the insertion tip facilitates penetration through the surface of the sports field. A plurality of flexible bristles (or a solid but flexible flange) is coupled to a rear end of the marker body for visibility above the surface of the field. The bristles are visible above the surface of the sports field, when the field marker is anchored therein and are intended to return to their vertical position if stepped on, or if disturbed in any other way (e.g. by a ball, hockey stick, lacrosse stick, etc.). 
     The sports field marking assembly may also include a tape canister that couples to a specialized anchoring device (tab). The tape canister is configured to dispense a measuring tape, similar to those commonly used to mark sports fields. The measuring tape is configured to delineate the desired boundaries and lines on the sports field. The measuring tape is configured to couple to the tab directly or indirectly. The tab is intended to act as an anchor for the tape. In this manner, the tab, tape, and canister assembly allow field markers to be anchored into the surface of the playing field at desired distances from the tab as indicated on the tape which can extend between each field marker as these are inserted. 
     The sports field marking assembly may also include one or more aligners that are operably configured to anchor into the sports field in a desired arrangement, so as to allow a user to retain the measuring tape in various standard field-marking patterns, typical for sports fields or in a variety of configurations created by a sports coach or groundskeeping team. The bottom face of the aligners has collapsible spiked feet that penetrate into the surface of the sports field. The spiked feet are operably configured to hold and anchor the aligner at a desired position on the sports field. The top face of the aligners has a plurality of collapsible and moveable guide posts that can be selectively raised. The guide posts are configured to guide the measuring tape though the chosen guide posts. 
     In operation, a user anchors the aligner(s) as required on the sports field in a desired arrangement. The user then chooses which of the collapsible and moveable guide posts to raise, according to the field design that the user is attempting to accomplish. Once the user has raised at least one of the guide posts in an upright position, the tab (which is connected to the tape) is inserted in the center of the first aligner (as determined by the user) allowing the tape to then be extended towards the aligners. The rotating head of the tab allows the user to align tape with the center of the tab, aligner and any activated guide post in a straight line. If multiple aligners are used, angles can be created with the tape entering the aligner along one guide post, and exiting the aligner along another. In this manner, the user can efficiently and accurately create a boundary reference point and field lines, of the type commonly appearing on a sports field. 
     In one aspect, a sports field marking assembly, comprises a marker anchoring device comprising an injection body having a proximal end and a distal end defining a marker insertion aperture and a marker discharge opening thereon, the proximal end including a translatable handle defining a handle translation channel spanning from a portion of the injection body to the marker discharge opening, the handle having a piston disposed and operably configured to slidably translate within the handle translation channel. 
     The sports field marking assembly further comprises a plurality of field markers, each having a marker body defining an insertion tip and having a plurality of bristles coupled to the marker body, the marker body and the plurality of bristles operably configured to be inserted within the marker insertion aperture, the marker body and the plurality of bristles further being operably configured to be discharged through the marker discharge opening, whereby the field markers are operable to anchor into a surface, whereby the field markers form a pattern across the surface. 
     The sports field marking assembly further comprises a tape canister coupled to the injection body, the tape canister operable to dispense a measuring tape, the measuring tape being detachably coupled to the tab, whereby the measuring tape extends along a line where field markers can be inserted to form a desired pattern. 
     In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the assembly further comprises one or more aligners operable with the, tab, tape, anchoring device, and field markers. 
     In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the aligners define a bottom face having multiple collapsible spiked feet operably configured to hold and anchor the aligner at a desired position on the surface. 
     In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the aligners define a top face having a plurality of collapsible and moveable guide posts operatively configured to be selectively lowered and raised, whereby the guide posts in the raised position guide the measuring tape in a desired direction. In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the guide posts have a flexible top section and a rigid bottom section. The rigid bottom section is designed to allow the tape to be held in position until the user decides to move the tape to another guide post on that aligner. The flexible top section allows the tape to be moved across it, returning to its original vertical position if the tape passes across it. 
     In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the assembly further comprises a magazine mount operably configured to guide the field markers into the marker insertion aperture. In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the magazine mount detachably couples to the injection body. 
     In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the magazine mount comprises a marker housing operably configured to hold the field markers, the marker housing having an upper end and a bottom end opposing the upper end, the upper end being removably coupled to the distal end of the injection body, and in alignment with the marker insertion aperture. 
     In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the inner surface of the injection body comprises a plurality of retractable stabilizers. 
     In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the surface comprises a sports field. 
     In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the pattern comprises a boundary or reference point on a field for visual cue to users using the field. In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the field markers comprise a retractable insertion body or may otherwise be removed by a user, having a bottom end and an upper end opposing the bottom end, the retractable insertion body further having a length, extending from the bottom end to the upper end. 
     In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the bristles couple to the retractable insertion tip on the upper end. In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the retractable insertion body comprises a fuselage, the fuselage encasing a pin having a length. In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the pin comprises a dart having an upper end and a bottom pointed end, the dart being coupled to an end cap on the upper end. 
     In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the end cap couples to a plurality of spring members operably configured to generate a spring force that forces the end cap up to the top of the upper end of the retractable insertion body, whereby the pin is retracted within the fuselage. In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the measuring tape comprises an eye coupled to one of the ends, the eye being operably configured to attach to the tab. 
     In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the tape canister defines an interior cavity sized to fit the measuring tape, the tape canister further defining an opening in fluid communication with the interior cavity. In some embodiments, an exemplary method of marking a field with a sports field marking assembly comprises an initial Step of inserting a one or more aligners into the surface. The method may also include a Step of inserting, with the marker anchoring device, the tab into the middle of the first aligner and into the surface. 
     Another Step comprises dispensing a measuring tape from a tape canister, the measuring tape is not coupled to the field markers. A Step includes inserting, with the marker anchoring device, one or more subsequent field markers into the surface, whereby the measuring tape extending between multiple aligners and field markers forms a pattern. 
     The method may further comprise a Step of selectively raising at least one guide posts on the aligners to an upright position. 
     In some embodiments, a Step comprises guiding the extended measuring tape through the raised guide posts, whereby the measuring tape extends along the pattern formed by the field markers. 
     A Step includes dispensing the measuring tape in alignment with the tab, and the alignment posts for one or more subsequently anchored field markers. 
     A final Step includes anchoring additional aligners and field markers until a desired boundary reference point and field line form or a desired pattern is established. 
     Although a specific order of marking a field with the sports field marking assembly has been described, the order of executing the steps may be changed relative to the order shown in certain embodiments. Also, two or more steps may be executed concurrently or with partial concurrence in some embodiments. Certain steps may also be omitted for the sake of brevity. In some embodiments, some or all of the process steps may be combined into a single process. 
     Although the invention is illustrated and described herein as embodied in a sports field marking assembly, it is, nevertheless, not intended to be limited to the details shown because various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims. Additionally, well-known elements of exemplary embodiments of the invention will not be described in detail or will be omitted so as not to obscure the relevant details of the invention. 
     Other features that are considered as characteristic for the invention are set forth in the appended claims. As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one of ordinary skill in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting; but rather, to provide an understandable description of the invention. 
     Before the present invention is disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The terms “a” or “an,” as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term “plurality,” as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term “another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “coupled,” as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The term “providing” is defined herein in its broadest sense, e.g., bringing/coming into physical existence, making available, and/or supplying to someone or something, in whole or in multiple parts at once or over a period of time. 
     As used herein, the terms “about” or “approximately” apply to all numeric values, whether or not explicitly indicated. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited values (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances these terms may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views and which together with the detailed description below are incorporated in and form part of the specification, serve to further illustrate various embodiments and explain various principles and advantages all in accordance with the present invention. 
         FIG.  1    is a perspective view of an exemplary playing field marking assembly, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG.  2    is an exploded view of the playing field marking assembly shown in  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIGS.  3 A- 3 C  are views of an exemplary piston, where  FIG.  3 A  shows a perspective view,  FIG.  3 B  shows an elevated side view, and  FIG.  3 C  shows an end view, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG.  4    is perspective view of an exemplary magazine mount, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS.  5 A- 5 D  are view of an exemplary end cap for a magazine mount, where  FIG.  5 A  shows a perspective view,  FIG.  5 B  shows a frontal view,  FIG.  5 C  shows a side view, and  FIG.  5 D  shows an end view, in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG.  6    is perspective view of an exemplary field marker anchored into the surface of a playing field; 
         FIG.  7    is perspective view of an alignment marker with a tab rotatably coupled thereto in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS.  8 A- 8 C  are views of a field marker and pin with springs, where  FIG.  8 A  shows a pin in a retracted position,  FIG.  8 B  shows the pin in an extended position and  FIG.  8 C  is side view of an exemplary pin with springs operational inside the fuselage of the field marker, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS.  9 A- 9 C  depict views of an injection body used with the playing field marking assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG.  10    is top view of an exemplary aligner with one alignment post raised upright, in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIGS.  11 A- 11 B  are views of the aligner shown in  FIG.  10   , where  FIG.  11 A  is a left-side view, and  FIG.  11 B  is a right-side view, in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG.  12    is a perspective view of an alignment field marker or tool with a tab that centrally aligned with the center hub or center aperture of the aligner for penetration therethrough, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG.  13    is perspective view of the assembly in operation, showing the injection body anchoring the field markers into the surface, and the attached measuring tape forming a pattern, in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG.  14    is diagram view of an exemplary diamond shaped pattern created by inserting a field marker at each corner of the diamond, at the distances desired by the user as indicated on the measuring tape; each marker is inserted once the tab is aligned with the appropriate alignment post, in accordance with the present invention; and 
         FIG.  15    is flowchart of an exemplary method for marking a field with a playing field marking assembly, in accordance with the present invention. 
     
    
    
     Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views of the drawings. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     While the specification concludes with claims defining the features of the invention that are regarded as novel, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward. It is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. 
     The invention described herein provides a sports field marking assembly and method of marking a field that overcomes known disadvantages of those known devices and methods of this general type and that facilitates the delineation and line marking across the surface of a sports field. Known embodiments of the present invention lack the ability to efficiently anchor field markers for coaching activities across the sports field, so as to form a boundary reference point, a field line thereon, or a visual cue, obstacle, or other desired coaching aid that does not detract from the activity, as is the case with sports cones. 
     The present invention overcomes these known disadvantages by anchoring the aligners across the surface of the sports field in a pattern, and then guiding the measuring tape that couples to the tab through the aligners to form a pattern. The user then selectively guides the measuring tape in the desired pattern to form a boundary reference point and a field line, as commonly delineated across a sports field or in a coaching activity. 
     Although the invention is illustrated and described herein as embodied as a sports field marking assembly, it is, nevertheless, not intended to be limited to the details shown because various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention. Additionally, well-known elements of exemplary embodiments of the invention will not be described in detail or will be omitted so as not to obscure the relevant details of the invention. 
     It is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments herein are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for future claims and as a representative basis for teaching one of ordinary skill in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting; but rather, to provide an understandable description of the invention. It is believed that the invention will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward. The figures of the drawings are not drawn to scale. 
     The attached figures are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate various embodiments and explain various principles and advantages all in accordance with the present invention. Moreover, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward. 
     The figures show several advantageous features of the present invention, but, as will be described below, the invention can be provided in several steps, sizes, combinations of features and components, and varying numbers and functions of the components. The invention consists of a sports field marking assembly and method  1500  of marking a field that achieves the goal of forming a boundary reference point and a field line across a sports field. This is accomplished through a portable marker anchoring device that anchors field markers in a desired pattern, and multiple aligners that are strategically positioned across the sports field, used to guide the measuring tape  148  and/or provide guidance on where the markers are to be anchored to form a desired pattern or reference point(s). Referring to  FIG.  1    and  FIG.  13   , there may be multiple ways in which the tape attaches to an alignment marker  700  and/or tool  158 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  1   , one embodiment of the present invention is shown in a perspective view.  FIG.  1    and other figures show several advantageous features of the present invention, but, as will be described below, the invention can be provided in several shapes, sizes, combinations of features and components, and varying numbers and functions of the components. 
     The first example of a field marking assembly  100 , hereafter “assembly  100 ” comprises a marker anchoring device  102  that serves as portable and handheld tool for anchoring a plurality of field markers  134   a - n  (wherein “n” represents any number greater than one) in a pattern, e.g., the pattern  1300  depicted in  FIG.  13   , that delineates or otherwise defines one or more boundary reference points and field lines across a surface  600 , such as a sports field. The marker anchoring device  102  includes an injection body  104  that forms the housing for the components of the assembly  100 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  2   , the injection body  104  may be barrel or cylindrical shaped or another shape conducive, which as discussed below, facilitates translation of the handle  106 . The injection body  104  of marker anchoring device  102  has a length, and in preferred embodiments, measures approximately 2-4 feet. The injection body  104  defines a distal end  108   a  and an opposing proximal end  108   b.  The distal end  108   a  is preferably oriented towards the surface  600 , while the proximal end  108   b  orients towards the user. 
     In one embodiment, the distal end  108   a  is defined by a marker insertion aperture  110 , that may be enclosed and sized and dimensioned to receive a plurality of field markers  134   a - n  (manually or through a mechanically biased slide system through a magazine  116 . The distal end  108   a  defines a marker discharge opening  112  that is sized and dimensioned to enable discharge of the field markers  134   a - n  and/or the alignment field marker in a generally perpendicular relationship with the surface  600  when desired by the user. In some embodiments, the distal end  108   a  flares out to enable standing the injection body  104  in an upright position on the surface  600 . However, in other embodiments, the distal end  108   a  has one or more outriggers operably configured to retract and extend to stabilize the injection body  104  when placed adjacent to the surface  600  for anchoring the field markers  134   a - n.    
     In some embodiments, the proximal end  108   b  of the marker anchoring device  102  includes a translatable handle  106  that couples to the injection body  104 . In one non-limiting embodiment, the handle  106  extends substantially perpendicular from the proximal end  108   b  of the injection body  104 . The handle  106  is operably configured to actuate discharge of field markers  134   a - n  at selected points across the surface  600  by depressing a piston  126  (using the weight or force generated by a user) to contact a head on the field markers  134  or alignment field marker  700 . As shown in  FIG.  1   ,  FIG.  2    and  FIG.  9   , the handle  106  defines a handle translation channel  900  that spans from a portion of the injection body  104  to the marker discharge opening  112 . In one non-limiting embodiment, the handle translation channel  900  may extend approximately three-quarters of the way to the terminus of the proximal, until the marker discharge opening  112  or preferably extends the entire length of the injection body  104 . 
       FIG.  3 A  illustrates a piston  126  that is in mechanical communication with the handle  106 . The piston  126  is disposed axially within the handle translation channel  900 . From this axial position, the piston  126  is operable to slidably translate within the handle translation channel  900 . In preferred embodiments, the translation of the piston  126  is linear, but may follow another path. As  FIG.  3 B  shows, that the piston  126  has a handle end  300   a,  and an opposing marker end  300   b.  The handle end  300   a  may be in an articulating communication with the handle  106 , such that translation of the handle  106  drives the piston  126 . Multiple prongs  302   a,    302   b,    302   n  may be utilized help fasten or grip the piston  126  to the plurality of field markers  134   a - n.    
     In another embodiment, best shown in  FIG.  4   , the assembly  100  may beneficially include a removably coupled magazine mount  116  that is operable to guide the field markers  134   a - n  into the marker insertion aperture  110 . In alternative embodiments, the magazine mount  116  may be permanently coupled to the injection body  104  and may be utilized to solely retain the field markers  134   a - n  before manual utilization by the user (e.g., for uploading on the injection body  104  before discharge through use of the piston  126 ). The magazine mount  116  may include a marker housing  118 , operably configured to hold a plurality of markers or markers (not shown) (in a serial configuration) for injection into the surface  600 . The marker housing  118  includes an upper end  120   a  and a bottom end  120   b  opposing the upper end  120   a.  The upper end  120   a  is removably coupled to the piston  126  through the magazine mount  116 . Moreover, the magazine mount  116  includes a cap, coupled to the bottom end of the marker housing  118 . 
     The magazine mount  116  may also include a spring member, disposed on the bottom end  120   b  of the marker housing  118  and proximal to a magazine end cap  122 , discussed below. The spring member may be operably configured to generate a spring force which pushes the plurality of field markers  134   a - n  from the bottom end of the marker housing  118  to the piston  126 . Said another way, once one of the field markers are expelled from the piston  126 , the spring member forces another marker into the chamber created by the piston  126  to take its place. When a field marker  134  is placed in an insertion position along the translation path (as best shown in  FIG.  1   ), the one or more flexible bristles  136  may extend through the insertion aperture  110  defined on the injection body  104 . In an exemplary embodiment, a loaded magazine mount  116 , filled with a plurality of field markers  134   a -n, may be utilized. A spring member may be utilized and in a compact position to force field markers  134   a - n  toward a loading position with respect to the injection body  104 . The flexible bristles  136   a - n  may be formed as a cylinder or other oblong shape that may be resilient material (e.g., silicon or natural rubber) and otherwise spring-back to a vertical position relatively to the head in order to serve as a perceivable visual cue for users on the field. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS.  5 A- 5 D , the magazine mount  116  comprises a magazine end cap  122 , which serves to restrict the field markers  134   a - n  from disengaging from the magazine housing, until the field markers  134   a - n  enter the marker insertion aperture  110 . In one non-limiting embodiment, the magazine end cap  122  has a flat shape with a tapered disposition that matches the profile of the magazine mount  116 . This tapered configuration defines a wide end  124   a  and a narrow end  124   b.  As illustrated,  FIG.  5 A  illustrates a perspective view of the magazine end cap  122 ;  FIG.  5 B  illustrates a frontal view of the magazine end cap  122 ;  FIG.  5 C  illustrates a side view of the magazine end cap  122 ; and  FIG.  5 D  illustrates an end view of the magazine end cap  122 . However, it is significant to note that the magazine end cap  122  can be shaped to accommodate differently sized and dimensioned magazine mounts. 
     The assembly  100  also beneficially includes a plurality of field markers  134   a - n.  With reference briefly to  FIG.  6   , one of the plurality of field markers  134   a - n  is shown anchored into the ground surface  600 . A portion of a measuring tape  148  (as shown in  FIG.  13   ) may be disposed adjacent to the plurality of field markers  134   a - n  after installation. The measuring tape  148  may be extend to a desired length or pattern to ascertain where the plurality of field markers  134   a - n  are to be discharged from the injection body  104  and anchored to the ground surface. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  6 - 7   , the field markers  134   a - n  or alignment field marker  700  comprise a marker body  138  that defines an insertion tip  140  that is preferably in a tapered configuration. The field markers  134   a - n  also carry one or more bristles  136   a - n  thereon. The marker body  138  and/or one of the plurality of bristles  136   a,    136   b,    136   n  are operably configured to be inserted (at least partially or fully) within the marker insertion aperture  110  for injection into the surface  600  (as discussed herein). Although field markers  136   a,    136   n  may be inserted into the ground manually, in the preferred embodiment, a user beneficially utilizes the marker anchoring device in order to insert markers into the ground surface  600  and ground. 
     Taking field marker  134   a  as an example, the marker anchoring device is operably configured so that the field marker  134   a  is forced out from the marker discharge opening  112  at the distal end of the injection body  104 . In one exemplary method of use, a user will begin by inserting at least one of the plurality of markers into the opening and/or opening. In other embodiments, a user may insert at least one of the plurality of markers in through the magazine mount  116 . 
     When inserting a marker, the handle  106  is in a cocked position along a handle translation path, preferably biased by a spring  114 . Still taking one of field markers as an example, upon insertion of field marker, a user grasps the handle  106 , using one or more gripping portions disposed thereon, and face the distal end of the injection body  104  towards the surface  600 . Then a user may apply a downward force (e.g., 2-10 lbf) toward the surface  600  on the handle  106 . In alternative embodiments, the assembly  100  utilizes a spring-loaded configuration, whereby the user will activate a lever or switch to place the spring  114  and piston  126  (operably coupled thereto) in a dynamic position to force the marker into the surface  600 , thereby placing the piston  126  into an un-cocked position along the handle translation path. 
     Continuing further, the marker anchoring device  102  urges the field marker out from the marker discharge opening  112  of the injection body  104 . The marker anchoring device  102  is operably configured to insert the field markers  134   a - n  into the surface  600 . In some embodiments, a user may manually reset the installer arm back to its original starting position by pulling the handle  106  in the direction of first side end. However, in other embodiments, the piston  126  may include a spring-loaded arm (not shown). 
     The spring-loaded arm would recoil automatically to its original starting position once a user stops exerting a downward force on the handle  106 . In another embodiment, the marker anchoring device  102  may instead include a trigger system (not shown) operably configured to generate a spring force when a user pulls the trigger. The spring force would push one of the plurality of markers out from the piston  126 . In another embodiment, the handle  106  may be collapsible, allowing for ease of transportation. 
     The field marker  134   a,    700  may include the body  138  and a tip that are beneficially of a substantially rigid material (e.g., wood), a metallic material (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum), a polymeric material (e.g., PVC, acrylic), or other substantially rigid material that is operable to be inserted into a ground surface  600 , e.g., dirt. The marker body  138  of the alignment field marker  700  comprises a tab  154  that defines a tab opening  606 . The tab opening  606  is sized to retain a measuring tape  148  for extending along a desired playing field pattern  1300 . In some embodiments, there are no bristles when tab  154  is utilized, but in other embodiments bristles may be utilized. 
     Moreover, the marker body includes a bottom end and an upper end opposing the bottom end. The body is operably configured to maintain the field marker in a firm and stable position in the ground which is uneasily dislodged. Said another way, the body anchors field marker in its position in the ground, wherein the tip is tapered to enable effective penetration of the ground surface  600 . 
     The bottom end of the insertion tip may be inserted in the ground to a certain depth, depending on the height of the body of field marker. The field marker  134   a  also beneficially includes a plurality of bristles, where “n” represents any number greater than one, coupled to the upper end of the marker body. Notably, the plurality of bristles is disposed on only a portion of the upper end of the body, leaving a space separating the location or joint where the bristles are attached to the body and the upper end thereon. 
     As seen best in  FIG.  7    and  FIG.  13   , an alignment field marker  700  may be utilized to set up the field marking system and/or begin the field marking installation method. In one exemplary method of use of the assembly the alignment field marker  700  or the field markers  134   a - n  may be disposed within the translation channel  900  (shown best in  FIG.  9   ) for contact with the piston  126 . Alternatively, the alignment field marker  700  or the field markers  134   a - n  may be manually inserted into the ground surface  600  (depicted in  FIG.  6   ). The length  800  of the alignment field marker  700  or the field markers  134   a - n  may be approximately 1-3 inches but may be outside of said range based on design constrains or applications. The length  800  of the marker body  138  for the alignment field marker  700  or the field markers  134   a - n  may be long enough resist approximately 1-4 ft.-lb. of torque. Notably, the one or more bristles  136  on each of the field markers  134   a - n  would be located on the side or underneath of the piston  126  and/or within the handle translation channel  900  when the field marker  134   a  is loaded into the injection body  104 . Said another way, the field markers  134   a - n  are operably configured to be placed in an insertion position (shown best in  FIG.  1   ) along a marker translation path with the insertion tip  140  disposed proximal to the distal end  108   a  of the injection body and the head disposed in the translation channel and configured for contact by the piston of the handle 
     Thus, when field marker  134   a  is inserted into the surface  600 , the bristles  136   a - n  are the only visible component sticking out of, or, perpendicular to the ground. The bristles  136   a - n  may be of a semi-rigid material (e.g., acrylic, rubber, nylon, polypropylene with a Shore D hardness of approximately 20-60) beneficially operably configured to rotate or flex at acute angle rotations, as exhibited by angle a, when an external force is exerted on the bristles  136   a - n  of the field marker, such as a sports ball or a player&#39;s foot. Said another way, the bristles  136   a - n  each individually have the capacity to bend over and rotate back into an upright position when, for example, a user steps on or a sports ball rolls over the bristles  136   a - n.  Moreover, the bristles  136   a - n  are designed not to disturb the trajectory of the sports ball when it comes into contact with the field marker. 
     In some embodiments, the bristles  136   a - n  of the field markers  134   a - n  are each individually beneficially capable of rotation along the bristle rotation path (represented in an exemplary path with lines). In one embodiment, the bristle rotation path is circular. However, the bristle rotation path may also be of another shape or follow another path. As such, the bristles  136   a - n  may rest in a static position, wherein the bristles  136   a - n  are substantially perpendicular to the ground surface  600 . Additionally, when an external force is exerted on the bristles  136   a - n  of the field marker, such as a sports ball or a player&#39;s foot, the bristles  136   a - n  are operably configured to rotate along the bristle rotation path to a dynamic position wherein the bristles  136   a - n  lay parallel to the surface  600 . 
     The bristles  136   a - n  are useful for visually indicating the distance between field markers  134   a - n,  and the pattern  1300  formed by the field markers. In an alternative embodiment, a laser device  150  couples to the injection body  104 . The laser device  150  is operable to emit a laser beam towards the plurality of field markers  134   a -n. In this manner, the distance between field markers  134   a - n  anchored into the surface  600  can be accurately determined. However, it is significant to note that laser device  150  may be operably coupled to any section of assembly  100  in order to effectively emit the laser beam. In another alternative embodiment, the plurality of field markers  134   a - n  include a light emitting diode  604  (LED) that is operably configured to illuminate. This illumination helps visually identify the location of the field markers  134   a - n,  and also gives an ornamental effect to the path between field markers  134   a,    134   n.  In further embodiments of the present invention, as depicted in  FIG.  6   , the plurality of field markers  134   a - n  may also each include a motion sensor  604  and a transducer (e.g., an LED  604 , a speaker, etc.) coupled thereto. The transducer  604  may be operably configured to emit at least one of an audio and visual cue (e.g., a flash of light or sound) upon detection of a motion within a radius thereof (e.g., within 2-3 feet). In one embodiment, the transducer  604  and motion sensor  602  may be coupled directly to the head of the body  138 . In another embodiment, the transducer  604  and motion sensor  602  may be coupled to the flexible bristles  136 . In another embodiment, the plurality of field markers  134   a - n  may include a controller and network card operably configured to communicate wirelessly with other electronic devices (e.g., multiple field markers  134   a - n ). The plurality of field markers  134   a - n  may be programmed to individually or jointly communicate and emit the cue when a motion is detected within a programmable or set radius. In one embodiment, the plurality of field markers  134   a - n  may be programmed with a software application resident on a user&#39;s electronic device, e.g., cellphone. 
     The assembly  100  comprises a plurality of field markers  134   a - n  (only field marker  134   a  is shown), where “n” represents any number greater than one. The single bristle functions substantially the same as the bristles  136   a - n  of markers. As shown in  FIG.  8 A , the alignment marker  700  may include a measuring tape  822  coupled to the tab thereto, wherein the tab can rotate 360° thereon. In other embodiments, each of the plurality of markers includes a retractable insertion body  804 , including a bottom end  806   a  and an upper end  806   b  opposing the bottom end. The retractable insertion body  804  has a length  802 , extending from the bottom end  806   a  to the upper end  806   b.  A tab  818  at the upper end  806   b  forms a tab opening  820  that retains the measuring tape  822 , thereby enabling movement wherever the injection body  104  goes. 
     Moreover, the retractable insertion body  804  includes a fuselage  810 . The fuselage  810  operates as a housing cavity which encases a pin  812 , as best seen in  FIGS.  8 A- 8 B . The pin  812  also has a length, able to fit inside and be enclosed by the housing cavity created by the fuselage  810 . As  FIG.  8 C  illustrates, the pin  812 , having an upper end  814   b  and a bottom pointed end  814   a.  The pin  812  couples to an end cap  816  on the upper end. Coupled to the end cap  816  are a plurality of spring members that are operable to generate a spring force which forces the end cap  816  up to the top of the upper end  806   b  of the retractable insertion body  804 , therefore, the pin  812  is retracted within the fuselage  810 . In one exemplary method of use, a user will push the piston  126  downwards, which would in turn push the end cap  816  downwards and force the pin  812  into the surface  600 . When the field marker  800  is removed from the surface  600 , the pin  812  automatically retracts due to the upward pressure of the springs. Therefore, in one embodiment, the retractable insertion body  804  is operably configured to automatically retract the pin  812  when the field marker  800  is removed from the surface  600 .  FIG.  8 A  displays the alignment field marker  800  in a deactivated position, wherein the bottom pointed end  814   a  of pin  812  is retracted.  FIG.  8 B  displays the field marker  800  in an activated position, wherein the bottom pointed end  814   a  of the pin  812  is emerging from the fuselage  810  of the retractable insertion tip  808 . 
       FIG.  10    shows an aligner  142   a  which may be used in combination with the present invention. The assembly  100  may include a plurality of aligners  142   a - n  (not shown), where “n” represents any number greater than one. Aligner  142   a  is operably configured to allow a user to lay out the plurality of field markers  134   a - n  in various standard pattern  1300   s  which are typical for training field sports. In preferred embodiments, the aligner measures approximately 4-10 inches in diameter. As illustrated,  FIG.  11 A  shows a left side view of aligner; and  FIG.  11 B  shows a right-side view of aligner. In one embodiment, one or more aligners each having a bottom face, a top face, a center aperture, a plurality of guide post pairs or posts  146   a - n  operably configured to be disposed within the center aperture and selectively movable to a vertical position with respect to the top face. The guide post pairs define and flank a post channel for guiding the measuring tape therethrough. In one embodiment, each of the guide posts  146   a - n  may move/rotate vertically, individually or jointly as pair, to a desired angle (and lock into place) or may move/rotate horizontally/radially around the aligner to be placed at directed angular increments (e.g., 1° increments). 
     The aligner comprises an outer disc  156  and a center hub  152 , forming a generally flat, circular shape. Additionally, a notch  1200  forms in the aligner is a notch. The notch  1200  is configured to enable the tape to be kept aligned with the tab, the guide posts, and the insertion point of the marker. The aligner also has a top face  144   a  and an opposing bottom face  144   b.  The top face  144   a  includes a plurality of collapsible and moveable guide posts  146   a - n,  where “n” represents any number greater than one. 
     In one exemplary method of use, a user will choose which of the plurality of collapsible and movable guide posts  146   a - n  he/she wants to use according to the field design that the user is attempting to accomplish. Once the user has chosen, the user will face at least one of the guide posts  146   n  in an upright position.  FIG.  12    is perspective view of the field marker aligned with the center hub  152  of the aligner for penetration therethrough. Also illustrated is one goal post  146   n  raised to an upright position in preparation for guiding the measuring tape  148 . 
     It is significant to note that the guide posts can have both, fixed, and adjustable positions. In this manner, the guide posts can be raised for guiding the measuring tape anywhere along an imaginary “clockface”. In one possible embodiment, the alignment posts are placed at fixed locations from  1 - 12  on the “clockface” (30-degree increments); ideally, it would be flexible enough to be adjusted to other increments, (45 degrees, 15 degrees, 10 degrees, etc. to facilitate other layouts desired by the user). As shown below in  FIG.  14   , a diamond pattern requires the guide posts to be raised at 12 O&#39;clock ( 1410   a ), 3 O&#39;clock ( 1410   b ), 6 O&#39;clock ( 1410   c ), and 9 O&#39;clock ( 1410   d ) on the aligner  1412 . 
     In some embodiments, the plurality of collapsible and moveable guide posts  146   a - n  has a flexible top section  1202   a  and a rigid bottom section  1202   b.  The upper flexibility allows the measuring tape to urge the guide post away when moving the measuring tape from one guide post to another. In one non-limiting embodiment, the flexible top section  1202   a  is fabricated from silicone or similar material to allow the tape “to go through it” after which the guide post returns to its full vertical position. The measuring tape positions inside the notch  1200 , adjacent to the rigid bottom section  1202   b,  in order to facilitate alignment of the measuring tape with the tab and the marker. When the user wishes to move the measuring tape to another guide post, the measuring tape is unhooked from the notch, and moved to an adjacent or opposite guide post, through the flexible top section  1202   a,  for reconfiguring the pattern. 
     Along the bottom face  144   b  of aligner  142   a,  are a plurality of collapsible spiked feet  1100   a - n.    
     Collapsible spiked feet are operably configured to hold and anchor the aligner into the ground. The spiked feet  1100   a - n  are hingedly connected to bottom face  144   b  for pivotal extension to anchor into the surface  600 , and easy stowage to a retracted position when not in use. Multiple spiked feet  1100   a - n  may be used. And as shown in  FIG.  11 A , four feet  1100   a,    1100   b,    1100   c,    1100   n  are utilized, where “n” represents any number greater than one. However, more or a smaller number of spiked feet  1100   a - n  may also be used. 
     In a further embodiment,  FIG.  13    illustrates the assembly  100  in operation, showing the injection body  104  anchoring a plurality of field markers  1302   a - f  into the surface. The injection body  104  receives additional field markers, from magazine mount  116  attached thereto. The attached measuring tape  148  dispenses from tape canister  128 , and is extended by the attached field markers  1302   a - f.  As shown, the path followed by measuring tape  148  is guided by the guide posts for two spaced-apart aligners  1310   a,    1310   b  to form a pattern  1300 . As shown, the measuring tape  148  attaches to the tab  1304   a ,  1304   b  of field markers  1302   a,    1302   f  at the aligners  1310   a - b.  The measuring tape  148  also attaches to the field markers  1302   b,    1302   c,    1302   d,    1302   e  between the aligners  1310   a - b.  The measuring tape  148  may utilize different colors to indicate to a user different standard distance measurement, such as, for example, 1 yard, 5 yards, etc. However, in some embodiments, one or more bristles  1306   a - n  extend from field markers to provide additional visual aid. 
     In other embodiments, the measuring tape  148  could include measurement marks or other indicia (not shown) delineated in feet or centimeters. In a preferred embodiment, the measuring tape  148  would be approximately  100  feet; however, those of skill in the art will appreciate any appropriate length may be employed. The measuring tape  148  also beneficially includes an eye, coupled to one of its ends and shaped as a circle, which enables the measuring tape  148  to loop over at least one of the plurality of field markers  134   a - n.  In other embodiments, the measuring tape  148  could instead include a pressure clasp (not shown) designed to give way when tugged on by a user. 
     In a further embodiment, as shown back in  FIG.  1   , the assembly  100  may also include a tape canister  128 . The tape canister  128  contains an interior cavity  132 , sized to fit the measuring tape  148  (not shown). In some embodiments, the tape canister  128  also includes retractable wheels. Moreover, the tape canister  128  includes an opening  130  which is connected to the interior cavity  132 . The tape canister  128  is operably configured to disperse the measuring tape  148  from the interior cavity  132  through the opening  130  and retract the measuring tape  148  back into the interior cavity  132  by utilizing the retractable wheels. 
     As discussed above, the measuring tape  148  follows the path of the field markers form, and receives guidance from the positioning of the guide post on the aligners. This allows assembly  100  to form a desired pattern that marks boundaries and lines across the surface  600  of the playing field. One such exemplary pattern, illustrated in diagram of  FIG.  14   , is a diamond pattern  1400 . Those skilled in the art will recognize that a diamond shaped pattern  1400  may be useful for a baseball field. However, other shapes and dimensions may also be constructed in similar fashion. 
     To construct the diamond pattern  1400 , initially an aligner  1412  is centrally placed inside a diamond shaped outline. The field marker, including a tab for guiding the measuring tape  1406  is positioned in the center of the aligner  1412 . The injection body  1402  dispenses a measuring tape  1406  through a tape canister  1404 . The measuring tape  1406  attaches to a tab  1408  on the field marker  1414 . The aligner  1412 , having multiple guide posts, rests centrally in relation thereto. Four guide posts are raised to an upright position for guiding the measuring tape  1406 . The guide posts are raised at 12 O&#39;clock ( 1410   a ), 3 O&#39;clock ( 1410   b ), 6 O&#39;clock ( 1410   c ), and 9 O&#39;clock ( 1410   d ) on the aligner  1412 . This forms the desired diamond shape markings. 
     It is significant to note that for the user to install the third marker at the third guide post  1410   c,  the measuring tape  1406  would have to be able to be moved out of the notch in the second guide post  1410   b  before the user could go to the left, or towards the third guide post  1410   c.  This is why the top part, e.g., portion  1418 , of the guide post  1410   a - d  has to be flexible, so that the tape can be moved across it to other alignment posts. The notch, e.g., notch  1420 , in the aligner is there to keep the measuring tape stable and to align it with the tab at the center of the aligner. 
       FIG.  15    references a flowchart for a method  1500  of marking a field with a sports field marking assembly. The method  1500  is configured to operate the marker anchoring device while coupled to both the magazine mount and the tape canister  128 , along with the measuring tape and the plurality of aligners, so as to insert the plurality of field markers into the surface in a desired pattern. A user will use the assembly  100  while it is removably coupled to both the magazine and the tape canister, along with the measuring tape and the plurality of aligners, in order to insert the plurality of markers into the ground in a desired pattern. 
     The method  1500  comprises an initial Step  1502  of inserting a one or more aligners into the surface. First, the user will insert the first aligner into the ground, then the user will use assembly  100  to insert field marker into the middle of the first aligner and into the ground. The method  1500  may also include a Step  1504  of inserting, with the marker anchoring device, a first field marker into the middle of the first aligner and into the surface. Another Step  1506  comprises dispensing a measuring tape from a tape canister, the measuring tape coupled to a tab on the field markers. A Step  1508  includes inserting, with the marker anchoring device, one or more subsequent field markers into the surface, whereby the measuring tape extending between multiple field markers forms a pattern. The method  1500  may further comprise a Step  1510  of selectively raising at least one guide posts on the aligners to an upright position. 
     In some embodiments, a Step  1512  comprises guiding the extended measuring tape through the raised guide posts, whereby the measuring tape extends along the pattern formed by the field markers. A Step  1514  includes coupling the measuring tape around subsequently anchored field markers while continuing to install the field markers across the surface. A final Step  1516  includes anchoring additional aligners and field markers until a desired boundary reference point and field line form. 
     In another exemplary method of marking, a user will use the assembly  100  while it is removably coupled to both the magazine and the tape canister, along with the measuring tape and the plurality of aligners, in order to insert the plurality of markers into the ground in a desired pattern. First, the user will insert the first aligner into the ground, then the user will use assembly  100  to insert field marker into the middle of the first aligner and into the ground. Then the user will decide which of the plurality of collapsible and movable guide posts he/she wants to use according to the field design that the user is attempting to accomplish. Once the user has chosen, the user will face at least two of the guide posts on the first aligner in an upright position in order to guide the measuring tape though the chosen guide posts. Said another way, the measuring tape will be guided through the guide posts on aligners. The user will loop the eye of measuring tape around the field marker and continue to install the plurality of markers throughout the field. Thereafter, the user may repeat the foregoing steps until the desired field design is accomplished. In another embodiment of the present invention, one or more of the plurality of aligners may include a housing for a retractable and extendable tape. This would have several advantages, including giving the user an easier path to more complex layouts. To effectuate or embody said feature, the assembly  100  would be modified to allow the aligner&#39;s tape to be attached to the housing of said installer. Additionally, one or more of the aligners would also be modified to accommodate the tape and allow the user to position the tape to be released in any direction desired by the user. 
     Although a specific order of utilizing the sports field marking assembly and method of marking a field has been described, the order of executing the steps may be changed relative to the order shown in certain embodiments. Also, two or more steps may be executed concurrently or with partial concurrence in some embodiments. Certain steps may also be omitted for the sake of brevity. In some embodiments, some or all of the process steps may be combined into a single process. 
     Although the process-flow diagrams show a specific order of executing the process steps, the order of executing the steps may be changed relative to the order shown in certain embodiments. Also, two or more blocks shown in succession may be executed concurrently or with partial concurrence in some embodiments. Certain steps may also be omitted from the process-flow diagrams for the sake of brevity. In some embodiments, some or all the process steps shown in the process-flow diagrams can be combined into a single process.