TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates, in general, to the field of training individuals to improve their performance in their field of work or play. More particularly, present embodiments relate to a system and method for projecting an object toward a target and a trainee (or individual) interacting with the object.

SUMMARY

A system of one or more computers can be configured to perform particular operations or actions by virtue of having software, firmware, hardware, or a combination of them installed on the system that in operation causes or cause the system to perform the actions. One or more computer programs can be configured to perform particular operations or actions by virtue of including instructions that, when executed by data processing apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform the actions. One general aspect includes a method for training. The method also includes determining, via a controller, physical characteristics of a trainee; adjusting a target zone based on the physical characteristics; adjusting one or more parameters of a delivery device based on the physical characteristics; projecting, via the delivery device, an object toward the target zone along a trajectory; and scoring a performance score of the trainee to track the object along a portion of the trajectory. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, apparatus, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured to perform the actions of the methods.

One general aspect includes a method for sports training. The method also includes projecting, via a delivery device, an object toward a target zone along a trajectory at a first speed; a trainee attempting to impact the object at an appropriate location with a desired impact location of a sport tool; capturing imagery, via an imaging sensor, that contains the object at the appropriate location and the desired impact location of the sport tool; determining a horizontal distance, and a vertical distance between the desired impact location of the sport tool and the object arriving at the appropriate location; and scoring a performance of the trainee to impact the object at the appropriate location based on the horizontal distance and the vertical distance. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, apparatus, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured to perform the actions of the methods. One general aspect includes a method for training. The method also includes projecting, via a delivery device, a first object toward a first segment of a target zone along a trajectory, where the first segment is selected based on a first color that is received at a controller, and where the controller adjusts one or more parameters of the delivery device to deliver the first object along the trajectory to the first segment; and scoring a performance score of a trainee to impact the first object at an appropriate location at the target zone. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, apparatus, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured to perform the actions of the methods.

One general aspect includes a method for training. The method also includes performing, via a controller, facial recognition or voice recognition of a trainee; verifying, via the controller, that the trainee is approved to receive training from a delivery device; projecting, via the delivery device, an object toward a target zone along a pre-determined trajectory; the trainee interacting with the object at the target zone; scoring a performance of the trainee interacting with the object; and initiating a subsequent action of the delivery device based on a command from the trainee to the delivery device. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, apparatus, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured to perform the actions of the methods.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Features, aspects, and advantages of present embodiments will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

FIGS. 1A-1C are representative functional diagrams of systems and methods for training a trainee to improve coordination, vision training and/or tracking capabilities, and vision training and/or timing capabilities, in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIGS. ID- IE are representative diagrams of an object used with a delivery device for training a trainee to improve coordination, vision training and/or tracking capabilities, and vision training and/or timing capabilities, in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIG. 2A is a representative functional diagram of a system and method for training a trainee to improve coordination, vision training, and/or tracking capabilities, including an impact device, in accordance with certain embodiments; FIG. 2B is a representative functional diagram of a system and method for training a trainee to improve coordination, vision training, and/or tracking capabilities, without an impact device, in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIG. 3A is a representative top view of a training field with an impact device; in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIGS. 3B-3E are representative side views of an impact device showing arrival times of an object and a sport tool; in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIG. 4 includes a representative functional diagram of a system and method for modifying parameters of the delivery device based on detected characteristics, in accordance with certain embodiments; and

FIG. 5 is a representative functional block diagram of an object delivery device that can support the systems and methods of the current disclosure, in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIG. 6 is a representative perspective view of a friction device for the delivery device, in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIG. 7 is a representative partial cross-sectional view along line 7-7 shown in FIG.5, in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIGS. 8A-8D are representative partial cross-sectional views along line 8-8 in FIG. 5 of a barrel or barrel assembly of a delivery device, in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIG. 9 is a representative functional block diagram of an object sorter for a delivery device that can support the systems and methods of the current disclosure, in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIG. 10 is a representative functional block diagram of a control system for a training system, in accordance with certain embodiments; and

FIGS. 11A-11B are representative functional diagrams of systems and methods for training a trainee to improve coordination, vision training, and/or tracking capabilities through segmenting training, in accordance with certain embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)

The following description in combination with the figures is provided to assist in understanding the teachings disclosed herein. The following discussion will focus on specific implementations and embodiments of the teachings. This focus is provided to assist in describing the teachings and should not be interpreted as a limitation on the scope or applicability of the teachings. As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited only to those features but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive-or and not to an exclusive-or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present), and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present), and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

The use of “a” or “an” is employed to describe elements and components described herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. This description should be read to include one or at least one and the singular also includes the plural, or vice versa, unless it is clear that it is meant otherwise.

The use of the word “about”, “approximately”, or “substantially” is intended to mean that a value of a parameter is close to a stated value or position. However, minor differences may prevent the values or positions from being exactly as stated. Thus, differences of up to ten percent (10%) for the value are reasonable differences from the ideal goal of exactly as described. A significant difference can be when the difference is greater than ten percent (10%).

FIGS. 1A-1C are representative functional diagrams of a system 10 for training a trainee 8 to improve coordination, vision training, and/or tracking capabilities. Such a system 10 and method of using the system as disclosed according to the embodiments herein may be particularly suited for sports training. However, it will be appreciated that other uses may be possible. Such sports may include, without limitation, baseball (FIG. 1A), tennis (FIG. IB), or hockey (FIG. 1C). Other sports can also benefit from similar training, such as softball, lacrosse, cricket, soccer, table tennis, American football (referred to as “football”), volleyball, basketball, shooting sports, etc. Other training activities can also benefit from similar training using the systems described in this disclosure such as military training, first responder training, search and rescue training, rehabilitation training (e.g., where the trainee 8 is autistic, recovering from a stroke, recovering from an injury, or has other medical conditions), or other trainees that can benefit from eye-hand coordination training provided by the training systems described in this disclosure.

Military, first responders, and tactical officers often need to make quick but accurate decisions under stress. By improving time to recognize aspects of the field around them, they can more quickly determine risks and identify threats. Search and Rescue personnel can work in difficult, stressful, or poor operating environments. Enhanced visual skills can help reduce the time to recognize dangers, individuals, and risks of the situation. Visual skills that can be improved by the training systems in this disclosure are, but not limited to:

Dynamic Visual Acuity,

Gaze Stabilization,

Initiation speed,

Peripheral Awareness,

Speed of Visual Processing,

Vision in Dim Illumination,

Visual Discrimination,

Concentration, or

Spatial Awareness.

The figures 1A, IB, 1C show a delivery device 20 that can be used to project an object 30 toward a target zone 50 (or a trainee 8). According to an embodiment, the object 30 may be projected along a trajectory (e.g., 40, 42, 44) in a direction 66 toward the target zone 50 or trainee 8. As used herein, a “trajectory” is a representation of a flight path of an object through a three-dimensional (3D) X, Y, Z coordinate system space, where each point along the trajectory can be represented by a point in the 3D space. Each point along the trajectory can include a velocity vector that is representative of a velocity and direction of travel of the object at that point along the trajectory.

In one embodiment, the projection of the object 30 along the trajectory (40, 42, 44) may be controlled by one or more controllers 28, 29 (also referred to as “controller 28, 29”) capable of controlling various aspects of the process of projection of the object 30, such that the projection is conducted along a predetermined trajectory 40, 42, or 44. The one or more controllers 28, 29 can include only one controller (28 or 29) that can control the aspects of the delivery device 20 and communicate with internal and external data sources for setting parameters of the delivery device 20 to desired values. The one or more controllers 28, 29 can include an internal controller(s) 28 and an external controller(s) 29 that can control the aspects of the delivery device 20 and communicate with each of the controllers and with internal and external data sources for setting parameters of the delivery device 20 to desired values.

A predetermined trajectory can include a trajectory that is estimated (or determined) prior to the projection of the object 30. The predetermined trajectory can be selected by the controller 28, 29 which can control one or more components of the delivery device 20 to control the trajectory of the object. The delivery device 20 can include or be communicatively coupled (wired or wirelessly) to the controller 28, 29 that can be configured to control one or more delivery variables associated with delivering the object along a predetermined trajectory 40, 42, or 44. In a non-limiting embodiment, the delivery variables can include, position of the device in 3D-space (i.e., position in space according to X, Y, and Z planes), angle of the device relative to an intended target or trainee, distance from a target or trainee, intended velocity of the object along the intended trajectory between the device and the target or trainee, spin of the object along the intended trajectory between the device and the target or trainee, the weight of the object by selecting an object, surface features of the object by selecting the object, as well as others. Additional delivery variables (or parameters) are defined in the following description at least in regard to FIGS. 5-10. In a non-limiting embodiment, these parameters can be: selection of a barrel through which to propel the object; an air pressure supplied to the object to propel the object through the barrel with a center axis; an air volume supplied to the object; an inclination of the barrel; an azimuthal orientation of the barrel; a length of the barrel; an inclination of the friction device which comprises a ramp and a surface material on the ramp; an azimuthal orientation of the friction device around the center axis of the barrel; an azimuthal orientation of the friction device about a longitudinal axis of the friction device; a distance of the friction device from the barrel; the surface material of the friction device; an object launch position from the delivery device, the object launch position being a 3D position in X-Y-Z coordinate space relative to the target or the trainee; an object selection; a distance to the target or the trainee; and a height of the target or the trainee.

The delivery device 20 can be moved horizontally shown by arrows 60, 62, or vertically shown by arrows 64. The height LI of the object exiting the delivery device 20 can be adjusted by moving the chassis 22 of the delivery device 20 up or down (arrows 64) a desired distance. This 3D movement of the delivery device 20 can allow users (e.g., coach 4, trainer 4, individual 8, trainee 8, or others) to adjust the position that an object 30 exits the delivery device 20. This can allow the exiting object 30 to be positioned so as to emulate a human or other real-life source for delivery of a regulation object (e.g., a regulation baseball, a regulation softball, a regulation hockey puck, a regulation tennis ball, a regulation table tennis ball, a regulation lacrosse ball, a regulation cricket ball, a regulation football, and a regulation soccer ball) such as by a pitcher for baseball or softball, a quarterback for football, a skeet delivery device for shooting sports, a soccer player making shots on goal, a hockey player making shots on goal, etc. As used herein, a “real-life” event refers to a game, practice session, or tactical situation for which the trainee is training to improve performance. The real-life event would be those events that use regulation equipment to perform the sport or tactical operations or situations.

Additionally, the object 30 trajectory can be projected from the delivery device 20 at an appropriate angle relative to a surface 6. A guide 24 can be used to cause the object to exit the delivery device 20 at an angle and cause the object to experience varied resistance when it is ejected from the guide 24. The guide 24 can include a barrel and a friction device for imparting spin and deflection to the object to project the object 30 along a predetermined trajectory. A controller 28, 29 can control the angle and position of the guide 24, as well as select the predetermined (or desired, or expected) trajectory from a plurality of trajectories or define the predetermined trajectory based on collected data from data sources. In a nonlimiting embodiment, each predetermined trajectory (e.g., trajectories 40, 42, 44) can include any parameters needed to setup the delivery device 20 to deliver the object 30 along that particular predetermined trajectory (e.g., trajectories 40, 42, 44). In a non-limiting embodiment, the parameters can include an azimuthal direction of the guide 24 to produce a desired azimuthal direction of an object 30 exiting the delivery device 20. The parameters can also include the amount and location of resistance to be applied to the object as the object is propelled toward the exit of the delivery device 20. These will be described in more detail below with regard to the delivery device 20.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the parameters can also include the force to be applied to the object 30 that will propel the object 30 from the delivery device 20 and cause the object to travel along the predetermined trajectory (e.g., trajectories 40, 42, 44). In a non-limiting embodiment, the force can be applied to the object 30 via pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical, electro-mechanical, or mechanical power sources that can selectively vary the amount of force applied to the object 30. The parameters can also include which one of a plurality of objects 30 and which one of a plurality of barrels 360 should be chosen to provide the desired trajectory. The plurality of objects 30 can have many different features which are described in more detail below. The controller 28, 29 can select the object 30 that is needed to produce the desired trajectory. The controller 28, 29 can control an alert feature 26 (such as turn ON or OFF a light, turn ON or OFF an audible signal, play a synchronized video of a real-life delivery source, etc.) to indicate that an object 30 is about to be projected from the delivery device 20 toward the target zone 50. The alert feature 26 can be any device that can alert the trainee 8 to be ready for the object 30 to exit the delivery device 20.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the object 30 can be a spherical or substantially spherical object used for training purposes. The object 30 may be shaped to represent a desired sport. In a non-limiting embodiment, the object 30 can come in different colors such as white, yellow, orange, red, blue, tan, grey, black, or a luminescent color. The color of the object 30 can be selected for the sport for which the trainee 8 is being trained or for the type of training being used. In a non-limiting embodiment, a colored pattern (e.g., red, yellow, white, green, blue, orange, or black pattern) can be applied on the object 30 to differentiate it from other objects 30. The colored pattern can be used to assist the trainee 8 in focusing intently on the object 30 so that they may pick up and track a particular sports ball quicker. The object may have one or more surface features (e.g., smooth, dimples, bumps, recesses, ridges, grainy texture, etc.) that facilitate delivery along various trajectories. In a nonlimiting embodiment, the object 30 can be made from a material such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polylactic acid, calcium carbonate, recycled paper, cotton, foam, plastics, calcites, rubber, a metal such as steel, lead, copper, aluminum, or metal alloys, a plant-based material, or a fungus-based material.

In at least one embodiment, the device can include a magazine that may contain a plurality of objects. The objects 30 in the magazine can be substantially the same or at least a portion of the objects 30 can have varied characteristics relative to the other objects 30. Object characteristics can include but are not limited to, shape, size (e.g., longest dimension or length of the object, which in the case of a sphere is the diameter and in the case of a disk is the diameter along a major surface), color, surface features, density, material (e.g., inorganic, organic, metal, polymer, ceramic, or any combination thereof), or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the delivery device 20 can include a first magazine with a first portion of objects having a first object characteristic, and a second magazine with a second portion of objects having a second object characteristic different from the first object characteristic. In one embodiment, the device is capable of selecting a single object from the first portion or the second portion. Various parameters may be used to select different objects, which may include, but is not limited to, a method of training (e.g., a preselected training protocol), a measured or scored capability of a trainee, a selection by the trainee, an instruction from one or more devices (e.g., data input from a sensor, such as a sensor associated with an impact device) communicatively coupled to the controller 28, 29.

In a non-limiting embodiment, it can be desirable for the object 30 to be sized such that it is significantly smaller than a corresponding regulation object. A corresponding regulation object is determined based upon the intended sport for which the trainee is training. For example, when training for baseball, the corresponding regulation object would be the regulation size of a baseball. It should be noted that there can be multiple regulation sizes in a particular sport. For example, the size of a soccer ball for professional soccer can be different than a size of a soccer ball for youth soccer, yet, both soccer balls are regulation size. For example, the size of a football for professional football can be different than a size of a football for youth football, yet, both footballs are regulation size. The object 30 of the current disclosure is significantly smaller than any of the regulation sizes for footballs or any other regulation objects. The delivery device of the current disclosure does not project objects of the same size as a regulation object for the intended sport or activity for which the trainee is training.

In one non-limiting embodiment, the difference in size between the object 30 and a corresponding regulation object can be expressed as a value of Lo/Lr, wherein Lo is the largest dimension (i.e., length) of the object 30 and Lr is the largest dimension (i.e., length) of the regulation object. In at least one embodiment, the difference in size (or ration Lo/Lr) can be less than 0.9 or less than 0.8 or less than 0.7 or less than 0.6 or less than 0.5 or less than 0.4 or less than 0.3 or less than 0.2 or less than 0.1. Still, in another non-limiting embodiment, the difference in size can be at least 0.001 or at least 0.002 or at least 0.004 or at least 0.006 or at least 0.008 or at least 0.01 or at least 0.02 or at least 0.03 or at least 0.05 or at least 0.07 or at least 0.1 or at least 0.15 or at least 0.2 or at least 0.25 or at least 0.3. It will be appreciated that the difference in size between the object 30 and a corresponding regulation object (Lo/Lr) can be within a range including any of the minimum and maximum values noted above, including, for example, but not limited to at least 0.001 and less than 0.9 or within a range of at least 0.001 and less than 0.5 or within a range of at least 0.002 and less than 0.006. In a non-limiting embodiment, the diameter DI (see FIGS. ID, IE) of the object 30 can be at least 0.05 inches, at least 0.06 inches, at least 0.07 inches, at least 0.08 inches, at least 0.09 inches, at least 0.10 inches, at least 0.110 inches, at least 0.118 inches, at least 0.120 inches, at least 0.125 inches, at least 0.130 inches, at least 0.135 inches, at least 0.140 inches, at least 0.145 inches, at least 0.150 inches, at least 0.20 inches, or at least 0.25 inches.

In another non-limiting embodiment, the diameter DI of the object 30 can be less than 2.0 inches, less than 1.90 inches, less than 1.80 inches, less than 1.70 inches, less than 1.60 inches, less than 1.50 inches, less than 1.40 inches, less than 1.30 inches, less than 1.20 inches, less than 1.10 inches, less than 1.00 inches, less than 0.90 inches, less than 0.85 inches, less than 0.80 inches, less than 0.75 inches, less than 0.70 inches, less than 0.65 inches, less than 0.60 inches, less than 0.59 inches, less than 0.55 inches, less than 0.50 inches, less than 0.45 inches, less than 0.40 inches.

It will be appreciated that the diameter of the object 30 may be within a range including any one of the minimum and maximum values noted above, including, for example, but not limited to at least 0.05 inches and less than 2.0 inches, or within a range of at least 0.05 inches and less than 1.10 inches, or within a range of at least 0.07 inches and less than 1.00 inch.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the size of the object 30 can be at least 120 times smaller than a baseball, at least 220 times smaller than a softball, at least 400 times smaller than a soccer ball, at least 25 times smaller than a table tennis ball, at least 90 times smaller than a lacrosse ball, at least 40 times smaller than a hockey puck, at least 70 times smaller than a clay pigeon (for shooting sports), or at least 110 times smaller than a cricket ball.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the weight of the object 30 can be at least 0.001 ounces, at least 0.002 ounces, at least 0.003 ounces, at least 0.004 ounces, at least 0.005 ounces, at least 0.006 ounces, at least 0.007 ounces, at least 0.008 ounces, at least 0.009 ounces, at least 0.010 ounces, at least 0.011 ounces, at least 0.012 ounces, at least 0.013 ounces, at least 0.014 ounces, at least 0.015 ounces, at least 0.20 ounces, at least 0.25 ounces, at least 0.30 ounces, at least 0.35 ounces, at least 0.40 ounces, at least 0.45 ounces, at least 0.50 ounces, at least 0.55 ounces, or at least 0.60 ounces.

In another non-limiting embodiment, the weight of the object 30 can be less than 10 ounces, less than 9 ounces, less than 8 ounces, less than 7 ounces, less than 6 ounces, less than 5 ounces, less than 4 ounces, less than 3 ounces, less than 2 ounces, less than 1.5 ounces, less than 1 ounce, less than 0.9 ounces, less than 0.8 ounces, less than 0.7 ounces, less than 0.6 ounces, less than 0.5 ounces, less than 0.4 ounces, less than 0.3 ounces, less than 0.2 ounces, less than 0.1 ounces, less than 0.09 ounces, less than 0.08 ounces, or less than 0.05 ounces.

It will be appreciated that the weight of the object 30 may be within a range including any one of the minimum and maximum values noted above, including, for example, but not limited to at least 0.001 ounces and less than 10 ounces, or within a range of at least 0.07 ounces and less than 0.9 ounces, or within a range of at least 0.002 ounces and less than 5 ounces, or within a range of at least 0.002 ounces and less than 1.5 ounces. In a non-limiting embodiment, other sizes and weights of the object 30 can be used with the delivery device 20 to project the object 30 toward the target zone 50.

The weight of the object 30 can be adjusted for different training purposes and achieving various predetermined trajectories (e.g., 40, 42, 44). The weight can depend on the size and materials used for the specific object 30 that support different training processes. The variation of weight can result in speed changes of the object 30.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the shape of the object 30 can be substantially spherical. In another non-limiting embodiment, the object can be non-spherical, such as spheroidal. In another non-limiting embodiment, the object 30 can also have surface features (e.g., dimples, divots, holes, recesses, ridges, bumps, grainy textures, etc.) for trajectory modification. The shape of the object 30 can be tailored to emulate certain predetermined trajectories such as knuckle ball throws, kicks from a soccer ball, etc.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the materials that make up the object 30 can be acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polylactic acid, calcium carbonate, paper, cotton, or foam, any poly-based plastics or plastics in general, calcites, metal such as steel, lead, copper or aluminum, rubber, a plant-based material, or a fungus-based material. In a non-limiting embodiment, the object 30 can be coated with glow in the dark colors. This can be used in various training methods for vision training, such as segmenting training and strike zone training (described later).

In a non-limiting embodiment, the object 30 can be illuminated by ultraviolet lights such as black lights for isolated training processes for vision tracking. Being smaller than the regulation objects, the object 30 can be safer than regulation objects. A user may need to only wear safety glasses or a mask.

The delivery device 20 can be positioned at a distance L2 from a target zone 50 or trainee 8. In a non-limiting embodiment, the distance L2 can be at least 3 feet, at least 4 feet, at least 5 feet, at least 6 feet, at least 7 feet, at least 8 feet, at least 9 feet, at least 10 feet, at least 11 feet, at least 12 feet, at least 13 feet, at least 14 feet, at least 15 feet, at least 16 feet, at least 17 feet, at least 18 feet, at least 19 feet, at least 20 feet, at least 25 feet, at least 30 feet, at least 35 feet, or at least 40 feet.

In another non-limiting embodiment, the distance L2 can be less than 210 feet, less than 205 feet, less than 200 feet, less than 190 feet, less than 180 feet, less than 170 feet, less than 160 feet, less than 150 feet, less than 140 feet, less than 130 feet, less than 120 feet, less than 110 feet, less than 100 feet, less than 90 feet, less than 80 feet, less than 70 feet, less than 60 feet, less than 55 feet, less than 50 feet, less than 45 feet, less than 40 feet, less than 35 feet, less than 30 feet, less than 25 feet, or less than 20 feet.

It will be appreciated that the distance L2 may be within a range including any one of the minimum and maximum values noted above, including, for example, but not limited to at least 5 feet and less than 200 feet, or within a range of at least 5 feet and less than 55 feet, or within a range of at least 15 feet and less than 50 feet, or within a range of at least 15 feet and less than 40 feet, or within a range of at least 5 feet and less than 15 feet, or within a range of at least 10 feet and less than 25 feet.

However, farther distances are achievable with increased power projecting the object 30 toward the target zone 50. In a non-limiting embodiment, the target zone 50 can be a rectangle defined by a height L5 and a width L4 and can represent a relative position in space, or the target zone 50 can be a physical collection device that captures the objects 30 that enter individual target segments 76. The target can be moved up or down (arrows 68, FIG. 4) to position the target zone 50 at the desired height L3. An imaging sensor 32 can capture imagery of the trainee 8 and communicate the imagery to the controller 28, 29. In a non-limiting embodiment, the imaging sensor 32 can include a camera, a 2D camera, a 3D camera, a LiDAR sensor, a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop, or other video recorders.

The target zone 50 can be divided into a plurality of target segments 76 and the controller 28, 29 can initiate the projecting of the object 30 through a predetermined trajectory (e.g., trajectories 40, 42, 44) toward a specific target segment 76 or toward an area outside of the target zone 50 for various training methods. For example, as in baseball or softball training, in the beginning of a training session, the controller 28, 29 (e.g., via selections from a coach/trainer 4, the trainee 8 or another user) can deliver fast balls along the trajectory 42 that can arrive at the target zone 50 in the center target segment 76 (or any other appropriate segment 76). This can be used to help train the trainee 8 to recognize the object 30 and track it through the trajectory 42 through consistent training using the trajectory 42.

When scoring of this activity indicates that the trainee 8 has mastered tracking the object 30 through at least a portion of the trajectory 42, then other trajectories can be selected for additional training. These other trajectories can be designed by the trainee 8, the coach 4, other individual, or controller 28, 29 for the particular training method. These other trajectories can also be designed to mimic at least a portion of the trajectories of a sports object that was projected through one or more game trajectories in a real-life event by a real- life athlete. In this type of training, the trainee 8 can train like they are facing the real-life athlete that projected the sports object along the one or more game trajectories. The scoring can be determined via imagery captured by one or more imaging sensors or by a coach/trainer 4 visually observing the interaction of the trainee 8 with the object 30. The controller 28, 29 can analyze the imagery to determine the performance of the trainee 8 to the training goals or criteria for the training method being performed. The controller 28, 29 can then establish a score for the trainee 8, which can be used to provide feedback to the trainee 8, coach/trainer 4, or other user for improving the trainee’s performance. The score can be compared to previous scores to identify trends in the trainee’s performance.

For a fast ball simulation, the object 30 can be projected by the delivery device 20 along the trajectory 42. The object 30 can be seen traveling along the trajectory 42 as indicated by the object position 30”. For other trajectories, such as 40, 44 (which can be more complex trajectories), the object 30 can be seen traveling along the trajectory 40, 44 as indicated by positions 30’ and 30’”.

FIGS. ID, IE are representative side views of an example object 30 which can be various shapes and sizes. In a non-limiting embodiment, the object 30 in FIG. ID is shown to be a sphere with center axis 31 and diameter DI. The object 30, when projected by the delivery device 20, can have a spin 94 imparted to the object 30 by the delivery device 20. The spin 94 can be in any rotational direction around the axis 31. In another non-limiting embodiment, the object 30 in FIG. IE is shown to be a spheroid with center axis 31 and diameter DI that is the shortest diameter of the spheroid shape. The object 30, when projected by the delivery device 20, can have a spin 94 imparted to the object 30 by the delivery device 20. The spin 94 can be in any rotational direction around the axis 31. The spin 94 is shown to rotate the object 30 about the axis 31 similar to a spiral throw of a football. However, the spin 94 can also rotate the object 30 end over end about the axis 31 and any rotational direction in between.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the spin 94 can be “0” zero, at least 1 RPM, at least 2 RPMS, at least 3 RPMS, at least 4 RPMS, at least 5 RPMS, at least 10 RPMS, at least 20 RPMS, at least 50 RPMS, at least 100 RPMS, at least 200 RPMS, or at least 300 RPMS. In a non-limiting embodiment, the spin 94 can be less than 120,000 RPMs, less than 116,000 RPMs, greater than 115,000 RPMs, less than 110,000 RPMs, less than 105,000 RPMs, less than 100,000 RPMs, less than 90,000 RPMs, less than 80,000 RPMs, less than 70,000 RPMs, less than 60,000 RPMs, less than 50,000 RPMs, less than 40,000 RPMs, less than 30,000 RPMs, less than 20,000 RPMs, less than 15,000 RPMs, less than 14,000 RPMs, less than 13,000 RPMs, less than 12,000 RPMs, less than 11,000 RPMs, less than 10,000 RPMs, less than 9,000 RPMs, less than 8,000 RPMs, less than 7,000 RPMs, less than 6,000 RPMs, or less than 5,000 RPMs.

It will be appreciated that the spin 94 of the object 30 may be within a range including any one of the minimum and maximum values noted above, including, for example, but not limited to at least “0” zero RPMs and less than 11,000 RPMs, or within a range of at least 1 RPM and less than 116,000 RPMs, or within a range of at least 1 RPM and less than 115,000 RPMs, or within a range of at least 100 RPMs and less than 10,000 RPMs.

FIG. 2A is a representative functional diagram of a system 10 for training a trainee 8 to improve eye -hand coordination in various sports. This system is similar to the systems shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, except that an impact device 52 is included at a distance L2 from the delivery device 20. The target zone 50 can be seen to be as a physical collection device that captures the projected objects 30 within the target segment 76 in which the object arrives at the target zone 50. However, the target zone can be a virtual two-dimensional (2D) representation without means to collect the objects 30. The impact device 52 can have a platform 54 for mobility. The target zone 50 can be positioned on one side of the impact device 52 with a user impact zone 56 on an opposite side of the impact device 52. In this configuration, generally after the trainee 8 has progressed from the training exercise of tracking the object 30 through the trajectories, the trainee 8 can use a regulation sports tool 12 (see FIGS. 1A-1C) to strike (or impact) the zone 56 preferably at the appropriate time that the object 30 arrives at the target zone 50.

The impact device 52 can include sensors 58 in the user impact zone 56 to detect when the regulation sports tool 12 impacts the impact zone 56. Sensors in the target zone 50 can determine the time when the object 30 arrived at the target zone 50 and possibly the position in the target zone 50 (e.g., which target segment 76). Imaging sensors 32 can also be used to determine when the object arrives at the target zone 50, without sensors in the target zone 50. Comparing the time when the sports tool 12 impacts the impact zone 56 and the time when the object 30 arrives at the target zone 50 can provide a scoring for the trainee 8 and encourage the trainee 8 to improve their performance of impacting the zone 56 at the appropriate time such that the trainee 8 would have contacted correctly with the object 30, or in real-game situations, a regulation object.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the impact device 52 can comprise a support structure with a target zone 50 on one side and an impact zone 56 on an opposite side, with the target zone 50 comprising sensors 51 to detect reception time and position of the projected object 30, and the impact zone comprising sensors 58 to detect reception time and position of an impact of a sports tool 12 wielded by the trainee 8. The impact zone 56 can also comprise several other types of impact material for receiving an impact from the sports tool 12 wielded by the trainee 8. In a non-limiting embodiment, the impact material can be a padded (or weighted) panel as shown in FIG. 2A, a padded (or weighted) bag, an object (such as a puck, a ball, a bag, etc.) perched on a structure, a suspended object (such as a puck, a ball, a bag, etc.), a net in tension, or a rope or resistance band in tension.

Any of these impact devices 52 can be used in one or more training methods that project an object 30 along a predetermined trajectory toward a target zone 50 of the impact device 52. In a non-limiting embodiment, the trainee 8 attempts to strike the impact zone 56 with a sports tool 12 at an appropriate time and location compared to a time when and a location where the object is received at the target zone 50. The controller 28, 29 can collect data from the sensors 51, 58 (or imaging sensors 32) and score the trainee 8 based on the trainee’s performance at striking the impact zone 56 at the appropriate time and location with the sports tool 12 compared to the time and location the object 30 is received at the target zone 50.

Training with the impact device 52 can use the delivery device 20 to project the object 30 toward the target zone 50 while allowing the trainee 8 to strike the impact zone 56 with a regulation sports tool 12. This allows the trainee 8 to work on not only eye-hand coordination using the delivery device 20, but also work on body motion mechanics (e.g., swing mechanics in baseball or softball) using the regulation sports tool 12 (e.g., a regulation bat for baseball or softball, a regulation racket for tennis, a regulation stick for hockey, etc.).

In a non-limiting embodiment, the controller 28, 29 can communicate the performance score to the trainee 8 and the trainee 8 can use the performance score to know that they need to adjust their performance or that the trainee’s performance is acceptable. In a non-limiting embodiment, the score can also be used to indicate that adjustments can be made to the delivery device 20 to project objects 30 along various trajectories to focus on weaknesses of the trainee 8 or improve strengths of the trainee 8. After the trainee 8, coach/trainer 4, other individual, or controller 28, 29 adjusts the delivery device 20 based on the score, the delivery device 20 can then project a subsequent object 30 along another trajectory toward the impact device 52. This process of projecting an object 30 toward the impact device 52, the trainee 8 striking the impact device 52, the controller 28, 29 scoring the trainee’s performance, and adjusting the delivery device 20 based on the scoring to deliver one or more subsequent objects 30 that can continue as desired to continue the impact device training.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the sensors 51 can comprise one or more imaging sensors 32 that can capture imagery of the object 30 as it travels along the trajectory (e.g., 40, 42, 44). The imagery can be analyzed by the controller 28, 29 to determine the arrival time and arrival location of the object 30 at the target zone 50. In a non-limiting embodiment, the sensors 58 can comprise one or more imaging sensors 32 that can capture imagery of the sports tool 12 as it strikes the impact zone 56. The imagery can be analyzed by the controller 28, 29 to determine the arrival time and arrival location of the sports tool 12 at the impact zone 56. The controller 28, 29 can compare the arrival time and arrival location of the object 30 and the arrival time and arrival location of the sports tool 12 to determine the accuracy of when and where the sports tool 12 struck the impact zone 56 and establish the performance score of the trainee 8 that indicates how well the trainee 8 interacted with the object 30.

In another non-limiting embodiment, the sensors 58 can comprise one or more strain sensors that can detect a force of impact when the sports tool 12 strikes the impact zone 56. This force information can be communicated to the controller 28, 29, which can determine an estimated trajectory of a regulation object if the sports tool 12 had impacted the regulation object.

FIG. 2B is a representative functional diagram of a system 10 for training a trainee 8 to improve eye -hand coordination in various sports. This system is similar to the systems shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, except that an impact device is included at a distance L2 from the delivery device 20 and can be a physical representation of the target zone 50. The impact device 52 can be a layer of material suspended in tension at the target zone 50 location, and the impact device 52 can be shaped to be the appropriate size of the target zone 50. The target zone 50 can be divided into multiple target segments 76 with each target segment 76 representing a portion of the two-dimensional target zone 50. One or more imaging sensors 32 can be used to collect imagery of the trainee 8 moving the sports tool 12 to impact the impact device 52 and possibly the object 30 as it arrives at the target zone 50. As the object 30 is projected from the delivery device 20 along predetermined trajectories (e.g., 40, 42, 44), the trainee 8 prepares to impact the object 30 with the sport tool 12 at a desired time along the predetermined trajectory.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the desired time may be when the object 30 arrives at the target zone 50. In this case, the trainee 8 can be scored on their ability to impact the object 30 just as the object 30 breaks the plane of the target zone 50. The target zone 50 can be an impact device (e.g., a layer of material, netting, etc., that is held in tension) that can provide a visual representation of the position of the target zone 50. As the objects arrive at the target zone 50, the trainee 8 (and possibly the coach 4) can visualize the time the object impacts the target zone 50 and when the sport tool 12 impacts the target zone 50. The time difference between these impacts can be used to indicate an ability of the trainee 8 to impact the object 30 at the desired or proper time and to score the ability of the trainee 8. The trainee 8 can impact the target zone 50 before, during, or after the object 30 impacts the target zone 50. The imaging sensors 32 can collect imagery for the controller 28, 29 to determine the position of the sport tool 12 compared to the object 30 when the object 30 breaks the plane (or would have broken the plane) of the target zone 50.

In a non-limiting embodiment, FIG. 3A is a representative top view of a training field with a trainee 8 standing beside a target zone 50 in preparation for impacting the object 30 with a sport tool 12 at an appropriate time when the object arrives at the target zone 50. The layout is generally directed at baseball, softball, cricket, etc., that involves swinging a bat at the object 30. However, this method for training a trainee 8 to correctly anticipate arrival time of the object at the target zone 50 will also work for other sports or activities (e.g., tactical training) that can benefit from improved hand-eye coordination as well as reacting to the object at the appropriate time.

The delivery device 20 can project the object 30 along any one of a number of predetermined trajectories (e.g., 42). The trainee 8 can track the object 30 as it moves (arrows 242) along the trajectory toward the target zone 50. At a time when the object 30 is proceeding to the target zone 50, the trainee 8 can begin to move (arrows 244) the sport tool 12 so as to cause the sport tool 12 to impact the object when the object 30 arrives at the target zone 50. This training method provides analysis of the ability of the trainee to impact the object 30 at the appropriate time and scores their ability to do so.

The discussion of this method may focus on when the object arrives at the target zone 50 as being the appropriate time for the sport tool 12 to impact the object 30. However, depending on the training specifics for the trainee, the appropriate time may be before or after the object arrives at the target zone 50. For example, in baseball, hitting the ball ahead of the target may be used to direct a hit ball toward one of the left or right field, while hitting the ball behind the target may be used to direct the hit ball toward the other one of the left or right field. In these cases, the analysis of where the sport tool 12 is compared to the object 30 at the appropriate time can instruct the coach 4, trainee 8, or controller 28, 29 on the error of the trainee to achieve the desired result (i.e., impacting the object at the appropriate time).

A 2D spatial representation of a grid 240 that can be positioned perpendicular to the target zone 50 and can be used to measure distances between the sport tool 12 and the object 30 at the appropriate time 246 (or location 246 in the grid 240). The grid 240 can be a physical 2D translucent layer of material with grid lines included on the material. In this example, when the trainee 8 swings (arrows 244) the sport tool 12 to impact the object 30, imaging sensor 32 can capture the arrival of both the object 30 and the sport tool 12 at the target zone 50. The imagery from the imaging sensor 32 can be communicated to the coach 4, trainee 8, or controller 28, 29, which can determine the actual time each of the object 30 and the sport tool 12 arrived at the target zone and determine any error that may have occurred between when the sport tool 12 should have arrived at the target zone (or at the desired location 246).

The grid can also be a virtual grid 240 used by the controller 28, 29 to calculate the distances LI 3 and L14. In this case, the virtual grid 240 can be merely a 2D spatial representation, where the imagery from the imaging sensors 32 can be used to calculate the distances between where the sport tool 12 should have impacted the object 30 and the actual position of the sport tool 12 relative to the object 30.

FIGS. 3B-3E are representative snapshots by the imaging sensor 32 of the grid 240 when the object 30 and sport tool 12 arrive at or near the target zone 50. However, this training method is not restricted to snapshots (or still images), since the imaging sensor 32 can be a high-shutter speed camera that can capture video imagery of the object 30 and sport tool 12 arriving at or near the target zone 50. Also, please note that the grid 240 is shown in each of these figures, but the grid 240 can be imaginary, with the grid included in each figure used for discussion purposes.

FIG. 3B shows that a desired impact location 248 on the sport tool 12 is a horizontal distance L13 and a vertical distance L14 from the desired location 246, which can be the desired location for impacting the object 30 with the sport tool 12. If L13 and L14 are “0” (zero), the sport tool 12 correctly impacts the object 30 at the desired location 246 and at the desired vertical position relative to the object 30. In this example, the object 30 has arrived at the desired location 246, which is the same as the target zone 50, and the sport tool 12 spaced away from the object 30 by a horizontal distance L13 and a vertical distance L14.

FIG. 3C shows an object 30 arriving at the desired location 246, which is spaced away from the target zone 50, with the desired impact location 248 on the sport tool 12 being at a horizontal distance LI 3 and a vertical distance LI 4 from the desired location 246 and vertical position of the object 30. The desired location 246 can represent a location for impact with the object 30 that will alter an angle of the object 30 relative to the trajectory 42 when the object 30 is impacted and returned back toward the delivery device 20 due to the impact. The appropriate time 246 for the object 30 may be desired to be past the target zone 50. Since the target zone 50 can be a layer or material, or positioned on an impact device 52, the object 30 may not be able to proceed to a desired appropriate time 246 that is past the target zone.

However, this can be calculated by setting the appropriate time or location 246 to be at the target zone 50 and then requiring, for the best score, that the sport tool 12 is a non-zero distance L13 (where the distance depends on how far it is desired to emulate the object 30 passing the target zone 50) away from the object 30 and the distance L14 is substantially “0” (zero). Therefore, by knowing or detecting the speed of the object 30 arriving at the target zone 50, knowing or detecting the speed of the sport tool 12, and knowing the distance between them (i.e., L13), an impact location can be calculated, even if the object 30 is stopped at the target zone 50.

FIG. 3D shows an impact device 52 with a target zone positioned on the side of the impact device 52 that faces the delivery device 20. The object 30 can arrive at the target zone 50 while the sport tool 12 arrives at an opposite side of the impact device 52. The controller 28, 29 can determine the horizontal distance L13 and the vertical distance L14 from the desired location 246 and vertical position of the object 30 between the desired impact location 248 on the sport tool 12 and the object 30. The controller 28, 29 can calculate a timing of impacting the object 30 based on the detected speeds of the object 30 and the sport tool 12, even with the impact device 52 positioned between them. If the calculated timing determines an expected impact timing of the sport tool 12 with the object 30 where L13 and L14 would be “0” (zero), then the trainee 8 correctly swung the sport tool 12 and would be scored high. The score is reduced as the distances L13 and L14 are increased above “0” (zero).

FIG. 3E shows an impact device 52 with a target zone positioned on the side of the impact device 52 that faces the delivery device 20. The object 30 can arrive at the target zone 50 while the sport tool 12 arrives at an opposite side of the impact device 52. The controller 28, 29 can determine the horizontal distance L13 and the vertical distance L14 from the desired location 246 and vertical position of the object 30 between the desired impact location 248 on the sport tool 12 and the object 30. The controller 28, 29 can calculate a timing of impacting the object 30 based on the detected speeds of the object 30 and the sport tool 12, even with the impact device 52 positioned between them. If the calculated timing determines an expected impact timing of the sport tool 12 with the object 30 where L13 and L14 would be “0” (zero), then the trainee 8 correctly swung the sport tool 12 and would be scored high. The score is reduced as the distances L13 and L14 are increased above “0” (zero). Scoring the ability of the trainee 8 to correctly impact the object 30 with the sport tool 12 can provide performance feedback to the trainee 8 to help improve their scoring and can be used to adjust parameters of the delivery device 20 based on the scores or scoring trends.

Referring again to FIG. 3A, this shows a representative top view of a training method 110 for speed training for the trainee 8. The delivery device 20 can be setup to deliver an object along a desired trajectory at a pre-determined speed. This setup can be performed directly by a coach 4 through an HMI with the controller 28, 29, or the controller 28, 29 can detect and identify the trainee 8 through voice, facial, and movement recognition, and possibly determine the type of training to be provided by detecting the objects (e.g., home plate, hockey goal, cricket sticks, coded light pattern, sport tool, etc.) in the training field. After identifying the training to be provided and adjusting one or more parameters of the delivery device 20, the delivery device 20 can deliver a first object 30 toward the target zone 50 along a predetermined trajectory (e.g., 40, 42, 44) at an initial speed (arrow 242). The trainee 8 attempts to impact the object 30 at the appropriate time 246 as shown in the examples of FIGS. 3B-3E. One or more of the imaging sensors 32 can collect imagery of the sport tool 12 approaching the object 30 and can calculate the trainee’s score as to how well they reacted to the delivery of the object 30.

The delivery device 20 can deliver another object 30 along the pre-determined trajectory (e.g., 42) when the trainee indicates they are ready (e.g., hand gesture, voice command, head nod, etc.). The controller 28, 29, via the imaging sensors, can calculate the score again for the trainee 8. As the trainee’s score improves, the speed of the next delivered object can be adjusted up or down to continue speed training for the trainee 8. As the trainee’s score improves for various speeds of delivered objects, then the delivery device 20 can be controlled to deliver objects along one or more pre-determined trajectories (e.g., 40, 42, 44) at various speeds. This can be used to simulate speed changeups in baseball, softball, tennis volleys, cricket, etc. This training method 110 can be used to improve speed recognition of the object 30 and to react more appropriately to speed changes. The trainee’s scores can be stored in a database (e.g., trainee database 344 in FIG. 10) for later review or for calculating trends.

The training method 110 is somewhat different than segmenting training, which is described later on with reference to FIGS. 11A and 1 IB. In segmenting training, one or more screens, which are positioned between a delivery device 20 and a target zone 50, block a trainee’s view of a portion of the object’s trajectory. By moving the screens toward the target zone 50, the portion of the trajectory viewable by the trainee 8 gets shorter and challenges the trainee 8 to become more and more skilled in tracking and recognizing the object 30. Then, moving the screens away from the target zone 50 allows the trainee 8 to track and recognize the object 30 more easily. However, in training method 110, the speed of the object 30 is adjusted to cause the object to arrive earlier or later at the target zone 50. By changing the arrival time of the object 30 at the target zone 50 (more specifically at the desired location 246), then the trainee 8 must adjust their reaction time to appropriately slow down or speed up manipulation of the sport tool 12 to accommodate for the speed changes of the object 30.

FIG. 4 is a representative functional diagram of a system 10 for training a trainee 8 to improve eye-hand coordination in various sports. The delivery device 20 can be adjusted in various ways to facilitate projecting the object 30 along a predetermined trajectory 40, 42, 44 toward a target zone positioned a distance L2 from the delivery device 20. Distance L2 can be at least 5 feet, or at least 10 feet, or at least 15 feet, or at least 20 feet, or at least 25 feet, or at least 30 feet, or at least 35 feet, or at least 40 feet, or at least 45 feet, or at least 50 feet, at least 55 feet, or at least 75 feet, or up to 100 feet.

One or more imaging sensors 32 can be used to capture and record the travel of the object 30 along a predetermined trajectory (e.g., 40, 42, 44). The imaging sensors 32 can be placed at any position around the system 10 with two possible positions indicated in FIG. 4. Users (e.g., a coach 4, trainer 4, trainee 8, individual 8, or others) can also track the object along the predetermined trajectory and score the repeatability of the object 30 to travel along the predetermined trajectory. The imaging sensors 32 can capture and record how the eyes of the trainee 8 track the object 30 along the predetermined trajectory. Imagery collected via the imagery sensors 32 can be analyzed by a local controller 28 or a remotely located controller 29 to determine how the trainee 8 tracks the object 30 along a predetermined trajectory and the controller(s) 28, 29 can score the ability of the trainee 8 to track the object 30 along a predetermined trajectory. The score can be used to improve the capability of the trainee to track the object 30, adjust the delivery device 20, or select subsequent trajectories of another object 30 (such as when the trainee 8 performs well enough to progress to a more difficult trajectory).

In a non-limiting embodiment, the imaging sensors 32 can capture physical characteristics of the trainee 8 as well as attributes of a training field 100. Imagery from the imaging sensors 32 can be used by the controller 28, 29 to perform facial recognition of the trainee 8, voice recognition, detection and recognition of body movements of the trainee 8, detection and recognition of objects in the training field 100, detection and recognition of body movements of the trainee 8 for controlling the delivery device 20 (e.g., “visual servoing”), detection and recognition of light and color for controlling the delivery device 20, creation of a virtual Grid, and combinations thereof to control operation of the delivery device 20.

The detection and recognition of body movements of the trainee 8, and facial recognition and of the trainee 8 can be used by the controller 28, 29 to adjust one or more of the parameters of the delivery device 20 to deliver objects to a target zone, where the target zone 50 has been adjusted based on the identified trainee 8. The physical characteristics of the trainee 8 can retrieved from a database (e.g., trainee database 344 in FIG. 10) once the trainee 8 has been identified. From these physical characteristics, the controller 28, 29 can adjust the target zone 50 accordingly to accommodate the trainee 8.

The physical characteristics of the trainee 8 can include one or more of the following: an overall height of the trainee; a height of a knee of the trainee; a height of a shoulder of the trainee; a length of a leg of the trainee; a length of an arm of the trainee; a position of the trainee; and a width of the trainee.

The voice recognition can be used by the controller 28, 29 to identify the trainee 8 or the coach 4 and adjust one or more of the parameters of the delivery device 20 to deliver objects to a target zone, where the target zone 50 has been adjusted based on the identified trainee 8. The voice recognition can also be used to identify if the trainee 8 or coach 4 is approved for use of the delivery device 20 and enable operation is approved or disable operation if not approved. If approved, then the trainee 8 or coach 4 can issue voice commands to the delivery device 20 to control operation of the delivery device 20, such as pause, resume, start session, select mode, end session, select training session, provide score, provide training statistics, etc.

The detection and recognition of objects in the training field 100 can be used by the controller 28, 29 to determine the type of activity for which training is to be administered to the trainee 8, where the type of activity can be for a sport (e.g., baseball, softball, cricket, hockey, tennis, table tennis, football, soccer, lacrosse, handball, racket ball, basketball, shooting sports, etc.), tactical training, trainee rehabilitation training, or any other activity that can be benefit from improving hand-eye coordination of the trainee 8. For example, if the controller 28, 29 detects a home plate near the target zone area in the imagery from the imaging sensor(s) 32, then baseball or softball may be the type of activity to be trained. For example, if the controller 28, 29 detects a hockey goal near the target zone area in the imagery from the imaging sensor(s) 32, the hockey can be the training activity.

The controller 28, 29 can use the imagery from the imaging sensor(s) 32 to determine the type of sport tool 12 to be used, the characteristics of the training field around the target zone 50, gear worn by the trainee 8, equipment held by the trainee 8, etc., to determine the type of activity for which the trainee 8 is training. The various methods of training described in this disclosure can be used for any or all of the types of training activities on which the trainee 8 can be trained. When the type of activity is determined, then the associated parameters for that type of activity can be retrieved from a database (e.g., activity database 346 in FIG. 10) and used by the delivery device 20 to control delivery of the object 30 toward the target zone. The associated parameters can include parameters to define a target zone 50, training field distances, define screens to avoid when projecting the object 30 (e.g., in segmenting training), etc.

The detection and recognition of body movements of the trainee 8 can be used by the controller 28, 29 to provide interactive control of the delivery device 20 by the trainee 8. This can be referred to as “visual servoing” which is a term used to indicate controlling a robot’s movements or actions based on visual actions of the trainee 8. For example, when the type of activity is baseball, then the trainee 8 can raise their hand to indicate to the delivery device 20 to pause projection of the object 30 until the trainee 8 is ready. The trainee 8 can then indicate their readiness by lowering their hand, which can indicate to the delivery device 20 to begin the sequence to deliver the next object 30 toward the target zone 50. Other body movements, such as another hand gesture, a voice command, a head nod, etc., can also be used by the trainee 8 to interact with the delivery device 20 to control or adjust projection of the object 30 along the pre-determined trajectory. For example, pointing left, right, up, or down, can indicate which area of the target zone that the trainee 8 wishes the delivery device 20 to deliver the next object 30; waving can indicate for the delivery device 20 to halt delivering objects 30, increase a speed of the next object 30, or decrease a speed of the next object 30, etc.

The detection and recognition of light and color can be used by the controller 28, 29 to control the delivery device 20. For example, the delivery device 20 can be configured to deliver an object 30 to a specific location in the target zone 50, where the location is determined by where a light illuminates a portion of the target zone 50. If multiple objects 30 are sequentially projected to the target zone 50, causing the light to illuminate various locations in the target zone 50 can cause the delivery device 20 to track to the illuminated location and deliver the object 30 to that location.

Additionally, the controller 28, 29 can detect color or color patterns to control the delivery device 20. The color or color patterns can indicate a type of activity for which the delivery device 20 is to be used for training. The color or color patterns can indicate a skill level required for the training, or a skill level of the trainee 8. The color or color patterns can indicate the areas of the target zone 50 at which the current trainee 8 performs best, performs worst, or somewhere in between. In baseball, this can be referred to as a “heat map” where the colors in the heat map indicate performance levels of the trainee 8. The delivery device 20 can be controlled by the controller 28, 29 to deliver objects to areas of the target zone 50 indicated by the heat map to be trouble spots for the trainee 8. These heat maps can be generated from previous training sessions and updated after each training session.

The “Heat Map” in baseball is a type of graph, generally with the same dimensions of a target zone. The graph can be used to portray where a specific batter has a greater percentage of hits within the target zone 50. Although there are a variety of types of “Heat Maps,” locations within the strike zone of hits can be represented generally by reds/orange and yellow “hot” colors. Specific areas within the target zone 50 represented by blue can portray locations where the trainee 8 is having the least success. These areas can also be known as “soft contact areas.”

These blue or weak areas in a trainee’s heat map may indicate a specific vision deficiency for the trainee, such as but not limed to, Depth Perception, Anticipation Timing, Speed of Visual Processing, Visual Reaction, and Response Timing. An opponent would prefer to throw into the blue areas to have greater probability of success against the trainee 8.

Heat maps can be used in multiple sports where a target zone 50 is used, such as a goalie in Soccer, Hockey, or Lacrosse. The heat map can represent where in the target zone the goalie is most vulnerable and gives up the most goals. Heat Maps can be used in Tennis to determine where a player has the least success in returning serves, volleys, etc., on the court or from which side (e.g., back hand or forehand). Heat maps can also be created and utilized in Tactical training to determine where (location) a trainee 8 has the slowest recognition and reaction times.

The controller 28, 29 can also create a virtual grid 250 that can be displayed to the trainee 8 via a pair of augmented reality goggles to indicate the portion of the grid to which the next object 30 is going to be projected. The grid can represent a target zone 50 in baseball, softball, soccer, hockey, tennis, etc. By providing the anticipated destination of the next object 30, the trainee 8 can focus on interacting with the object 30 without as much emphasis being required for determining its destination and then reacting to location.

The virtual grid 250 can also be for a horizontal playing surface, such as in tennis, table tennis, cricket, etc. Each serve, groundstroke, volley, etc., in a game or practice can be captured via imaging sensors 32 and the controller 28, 29 and stored in a database (e.g., Game statistics database 36 in FIG. 10), according to the specific location on the court (or in the grid) where the ball impacted the court. By capturing the grid locations 252 for each successive serve or volley, the delivery device 20 can use the stored grid locations 252 to simulate a real-time game or practice event. The controller 28, 29 can read the stored grid locations 252 and cause the delivery device 20 to project successive objects 30 to the grid locations 252 according to the stored sequence.

This particular training method can incorporate various colors where the individual section in the grid turns a specific color depicting the type of stroke that was used. For example, Red for Serves, Yellow for Volleys, Blue for Fobs, etc. The trainee 8 can use Augmented Reality glasses to see the same grid that the delivery device 20 is using and to see where the next stroke will be delivered. The training allows for changing velocity of strokes to match the skill level of trainee 8. For example, although capturing a real-time event between world-class professionals, the locations in the grid can remain the same, but the velocity of strokes can be reduced.

The delivery device 20 can include a guide 24 that is used to change the exit angle and rotation of the object 30 as it leaves the delivery device 20. In a non-limiting embodiment, the guide 24 can be tilted in any direction including horizontal arc length (arrows 72) and vertical arc lengths (arrows 74) to allow the guide to point the object at any angle within a cone shaped region with the end of the cone at the exit point of the object 30 and expanding in diameter as the distance from the delivery device 20 increases. The guide 24 can also vary an amount of spin (i.e., varied RPMs) on the object 30 as well as a direction of the rotation of the spin relative to the delivery device 20 by rotation (arrows 70) of the guide 24. The guide 24 can also vary an interference of the object 30 with a friction device to impart various spin rates (RPMs) of the object 30. The controller 28, 29 can control the speed at which the object 30 is projected from the delivery device 20. In a non-limiting embodiment, with this degree of control, the object 30 can be tailored to reproduce substantially any desired trajectory, where the desired trajectory can be the trajectory of a baseball pitch, a softball pitch, a soccer kick, a hockey player shot on goal with a puck, a football pass, a cricket pitch, a lacrosse throw, a tennis volley, a skeet delivery for shooting sports, as well as many other regulation objects in other sports or real-life events.

FIG. 5 is a representative functional block diagram of an object 30 delivery device 20 that can support the systems and methods of the current disclosure, as well as other systems and methods. The delivery device 20 can include a chassis 22 adjustably mounted to a base 18 that can move the delivery device 20 along a surface 6 in directions 166, 168. The delivery device 20 can include one or more local controllers 28 (referred to as controller 28) that can be communicatively coupled to components within the delivery device 20 via a network 35 as well as communicatively coupled to one or more remote controllers 29, one or more imaging sensors 32, and one or more external databases 36 via one or more networks 33a, 33b, 34. In some network configurations, the network 35 can include one or more internal networks 35 for communicating to components of the delivery device 20. The controller 28 can be communicatively coupled to a non-transitory memory 37 that can store a delivery device parameter database 38. Sets of delivery device parameters can be stored in the database 38, where each set can be used to configure, via the controller 28, 29, the delivery device 20 to deliver an object 30 along a respective predetermined trajectory. These internal networks 35 can include networks with standard or custom network protocols to transfer data and commands to/from the delivery device 20 components.

The one or more remote controllers 29 (referred to as controller 29) can be communicatively coupled to the local controller 28 via a network 33a that communicatively couples the external network 34 to the internal network 35 (with network 33b not connected). In this configuration, the remote controller 29 can command and control the delivery device 20 components directly without the direct intervention of the local controller 28. However, in a preferred embodiment, the controller 29 can be communicatively coupled to the controller 28 via the network 33b, which is not directly coupled to the network 34 (with network 33a not connected). In this configuration, the controller 29 can communicate configuration changes (or other commands and data) for the delivery device 20 to the controller 28, which can then carry out these changes to the components of the delivery device 20. If should be understood, in another configuration, the networks 33a, 33b, 34, 35 can all be connected with the controllers 28, 29 managing the communications over the networks.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the delivery device 20 can include a guide 24 that can modify the trajectory and spin of the object 30 as the object 30 is projected toward the target zone 50 or trainee 8. The guide 24 can include a barrel 360 with a center axis 90 through which the object 30 can be projected toward a friction device 200. The friction device 200 can have a center axis 92 and can be rotated about the center axis 92 to alter the engagement of the object 30 when it impacts the friction device 200 at position 30’ ’ ’ . An object 30 can be received from the object storage area 120 and located at position 30’ in a first end of the barrel 360. A pressurized air source 152 can be fluidically coupled to the first end of the barrel 360 via conduit 158, with delivery of a volume of pressurized air controlled by a valve 154. The valve 154 and the air source 152 can be controlled by the controller 28, 29 to adjust the air pressure applied to the object 30 at position 30’ as well as the volume of air applied. It should be understood that pressurized air is only one possible option for delivering a desired force to the object 30 to project the object 30 through the barrel 360. Pneumatics other than pressurized air can be used as well as hydraulics, electrical, electro-mechanical, or mechanical power sources that can supply the desired force to the object 30 to project the object 30 through the barrel 360.

In a non-limiting embodiment, an air pressure can be at least 3 PSI (i.e., pressure per square inch), at least 4 PSI, at least 5 PSI, at least 6 PSI, at least 7 PSI, at least 8 PSI, at least 9 PSI, at least 10 PSI, at least 20 PSI, at least 30 PSI, at least 40 PSI, at least 50 PSI, at least 60 PSI, at least 70 PSI, at least 80 PSI, at least 90 PSI, at least 100 PSI.

In another non-limiting embodiment, the air pressure can be less than 220 PSI, less than 210 PSI, less than 200 PSI, less than 190 PSI, less than 180 PSI, less than 170 PSI, less than 160 PSI, less than 150 PSI, less than 140 PSI, less than 130 PSI, less than 120 PSI, less than 110 PSI, less than 100 PSI, or less than 90 PSI.

It will be appreciated that the air pressure may be within a range including any one of the minimum and maximum values noted above, including for example, but not limited to at least 5 PSI and less than 220 PSI inches, or within a range of at least 5 PSI and less than 200 PSI, or within a range of at least 10 PSI and less than 200 PSI, or within a range of at least 5 PSI and less than 180 PSI. In a non-limiting embodiment, a length of the barrel 360 can be at least 2 inches, at least 3 inches, at least 4 inches, at least 4.5 inches, at least 5 inches, at least 5.5 inches, at least 6 inches, at least 7 inches, at least 8 inches, at least 9 inches, at least 10 inches, at least 11 inches, or at least 12 inches.

In another non-limiting embodiment, the length of the barrel 360 can be less than 48 inches, less than 36 inches, less than 24 inches, less than 23 inches, less than 22 inches, less than 21 inches, less than 20 inches, less than 19 inches, less than 18 inches, less than 17 inches, less than 16 inches, less than 15 inches, less than 14 inches, less than 13 inches, less than 12 inches, less than 11 inches, less than 10 inches, less than 9 inches, less than 8 inches, less than 7 inches, less than 6 inches, less than 5.5 inches.

It will be appreciated that the length of the barrel 360 may be within a range including any one of the minimum and maximum values noted above, including, for example, but not limited to at least 2 inches and less than 48 inches, or within a range of at least 4.5 inches and less than 24 inches, or within a range of at least 4.5 inches and less than 5.5 inches, or within a range of at least 3 inches and less than 12 inches.

When the valve 154 is actuated, a controlled volume of pressurized air (or other pressurized gas) can be delivered to the first end of the barrel 360 for a predetermined length of time to force the object 30 to be propelled through the barrel 360 at a predetermined velocity, such that at position 30” the object 30 achieves a desired velocity vector 174. The velocity vector 174 can range from 25 miles per hour to 135 miles per hour. If the friction device 200 is not in a position to interfere with the trajectory 46 of the object 30 as it is propelled from a second end of the barrel 360, then the object 30 may continue along trajectory 46 and exit the delivery device 20 without having additional spin or deflection imparted to the object 30 by the friction device 200. This may be used for delivering “fast balls” along the predetermined trajectory 42 since the object does not engage the friction device 200 before it exits the delivery device 20.

However, if the friction device 200 is positioned to interfere with the object 30 as it is propelled from the second end of the barrel 360, then object 30 can engage (or impact) the friction device 200 at position 30”’, thereby deflecting the object 30 from the axis 90 of the barrel 360 at an angle and imparting a spin 94 to the object. Impacting the friction device 200 can cause the object 30 to begin traveling along a predetermined trajectory 40 with an altered velocity vector 176 at position 30””. The amount of spin 94 and the amount of deflection from trajectory 46 to trajectory 48 can be determined by the velocity vector 174 of the object 30 at position 30”, the spin of the object 30 at position 30”, the azimuthal position of the friction device 200 about its center axis 92, the azimuthal position of the friction device 200 about the center axis 90 of the barrel 360, the incline (arrows 89) of the friction device 200 relative to the center axis 90, the length (arrows 88) of the friction device 200, and the surface material on the friction device 200. The object 30 can then continue along the predetermined trajectory 48 to the target zone 50 or toward the trainee 8.

If another trajectory is desired, then the controller 28, 29 can modify the parameters of the delivery device 20 (such as changing the velocity vector 174 and spin of the object 30 at position 30”, changing the azimuthal position of the friction device 200 about its center axis 92, changing the azimuthal position of the friction device 200 about the center axis 90 of the barrel 360, changing the incline (arrows 89) of the friction device 200 relative to the center axis 90, changing the length (arrows 88) of the friction device 200, or changing the surface material on the friction device 200) to deliver a subsequent object 30 along a new predetermined trajectory 48.

In a non-limiting embodiment, in addition to these parameters mentioned above, there are also parameters of the barrel position and delivery device 20 chassis 22 position that can be used to alter a trajectory of an object 30 to travel along a predetermined trajectory (e.g., 40, 42, 44) to a target zone (or trainee 8). Some of these parameters affect the orientation of the barrel 360 within the delivery device 20, while others can affect the orientation and position of the chassis 22 of the delivery device 20 relative to a surface 6, while others affect selecting an object 30 to be propelled from the barrel 360. In a non-limiting embodiment, all these parameters can have an impact on the trajectory of the object 30 as it is projected from the delivery device 20 toward the target zone 50 or trainee 8.

The barrel 360 can be rotated (arrows 86) about its center axis 90. This can be beneficial if the barrel 360 includes a non-smooth inner surface, such as an internal bore of the barrel 360 with rifling grooves (i.e., a surface with helically oriented ridges or grooves along the internal bore of the barrel 360) that can impart a spin (clockwise or counterclockwise) to the object 30 as the object 30 travels through the internal bore of the barrel 360. Other surface features can also be used on the internal bore of the barrel 360 to affect the spin of the object 30 as it travels through the barrel 360.

The barrel 360 can be rotated (arrows 84) about the axis 91 to adjust the direction of the object 30 as it exits the barrel 360. The barrel 360 can also be moved (arrows 85) to adjust a distance between the exit end of the barrel 360 and the friction device 200.

The friction device 200 can be coupled to a structure (e.g., structure 210 via support 202) that can be used to rotate the friction device 200 about the center axis 90 of the barrel 360. This can be used to change the deflection angle imparted to the object 30 when it impacts the friction device 200 at position 30’”.

The chassis 22 can be rotationally mounted to a base 18 at pivot point 148. Actuators 144 can be used to rotate the chassis 22 about the X-axis (arrows 81) or the Y-axis (arrows 82) relative to the surface 6 by extending/retracting. There can be four actuators 144 positioned circumferentially about the center axis 93. The base 18 can rotate the chassis 22 about the Z-axis (arrows 80) relative to the surface 6. The support 142 can be used to raise or lower (arrows 83) the chassis 22 relative to the surface 6. Supports 146 can be used to stabilize the support 142 to the support structure 160. The support structure 160 can have multiple wheels 164 with multiple axles 162 to facilitate moving the support structure 160 along the surface 6 in the X and Y directions (arrows 166, 168). The support structure 160 can house an optional controller 169 for controlling the articulations of the base 18 to orient the chassis 22 in the desired orientation. This controller 169 can be positioned at any location in or on the base 18 as well as in or on the chassis 22. It is not required that the controller 169 be disposed in the support structure 160.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the delivery device 20 can include one or more storage bins 150 for storing objects 30 and delivering an object 30 to the barrel 360 at position 30’. In the example shown in FIG. 5, there are two storage bins 150a, 150b, but it should be understood that more or fewer storage bins 150 can be used in keeping with the principles of this disclosure. Storage bin 150a can contain objects 30a with storage bin 150b containing objects 30b. The controller 28, 29 (or coach 4, or trainee 8, or other individual) can select which storage bin 150a, 150b is to provide the object 30 to the barrel 360 at position 30’. If the object 30a is selected, then the storage bin 150a can release one object 30a that can be directed to the position 30’ via a conduit 156. If the object 30b is selected, then the storage bin 150b can release one object 30b that can be directed to the position 30’ via a conduit 156. Only one object 30a or 30b is released at a time in this configuration.

However, the conduit 156 can be a collection conduit that receives each object 30a or 30b and holds them in a chronological order in the conduit 156 as to when they were received at the conduit 156 from the storage bins 150a, 150b. A mechanism 155 can be used to release the next object (30a or 30b) into the barrel 360 at position 30’, thereby delivering the objects 30a, 30b to the barrel 360 in the order they were received at the conduit 156. Even if only one object 30a, 30b is released to the conduit 156, the mechanism 155 can still be used to prevent the escape of pressurized gas into the conduit 156. However, the mechanism 155 is not required. Other means can be provided to prevent loss of pressurized gas through any other path other than through the barrel 360.

FIG. 6 is a representative perspective view of a friction device 200 for the delivery device 20. As similarly described above, the friction device 200 can be rotated about its axis 92 (arrows 87) as well as being rotated about the axis 90 of the barrel 360 (arrows 96). A support (e.g., support 202) can be used to support and rotate the friction device 200 about the axis 92. The barrel 360 can be rotated about the axis 90 (arrows 86) and moved toward or away from the friction device 200 (arrows 85). The object 30 can exit the barrel 360 with a velocity vector 174 at position 30”. If the object 30 impacts the friction device 200 at position 30’”, then a spin 94 can be imparted to the object 30 as well as deflecting the object 30 substantially by an angle Al relative to the center axis 90 of the barrel 360. The object 30 can travel along the resulting trajectory 48 from the object 30 impacting the friction device 200. The object 30 can have a resulting velocity vector 176 at position 30””.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the velocity vector 174, 176, 178 can be a velocity directed in any 3D direction, with the velocity of the object 30 being at least 4 MPH (i.e., miles per hour), at least 5 MPH, at least 6 MPH, at least 7 MPH, at least 8 MPH, at least 9 MPH, at least 10 MPH, at least 15 MPH, at least 20 MPH, at least 25 MPH, at least 30 MPH, at least 35 MPH, at least 40 MPH, at least 45 MPH, at least 50 MPH, at least 55 MPH, at least 60 MPH, at least 65 MPH, at least 70 MPH, at least 75 MPH, at least 80 MPH, at least 90 MPH, or at least 100 MPH.

In another non-limiting embodiment, the velocity vector 174, 176, 178 can be a velocity directed in any 3D direction, with the velocity of the object 30 being less than 220 MPH, less than 210 MPH, less than 200 MPH, less than 190 MPH, less than 180 MPH, less than 170 MPH, less than 160 MPH, less than 150 MPH, less than 145 MPH, less than 140 MPH, less than 135 MPH, less than 130 MPH, less than 125 MPH, less than 120 MPH, less than 115 MPH, less than 110 MPH, less than 105 MPH, less than 100 MPH, less than 95 MPH, less than 90 MPH, less than 85 MPH, less than 80 MPH, less than 75 MPH, less than 70 MPH, less than 65 MPH, less than 60 MPH, less than 55 MPH, less than 50 MPH, less than 45 MPH, or less than 40 MPH.

It will be appreciated that the velocity of the object 30 at the velocity vector 174, 176, 178 may be within a range including any one of the minimum and maximum values noted above, including for example, but not limited to at least 5 MPH and less than 75 MPH, or within a range of at least 15 MPH and less than 100 RPM, or within a range of at least 15 MPH and less than 220 MPH. In a non-limiting embodiment, the friction device 200 can include a ramp 206 with one or more surface materials attached to it. The surface material controls a friction applied to the object 30 when the object 30 impacts the friction device 200. Therefore, it can be beneficial to allow the delivery device 20 to automatically select between various surface materials (e.g., 204, 205, 208). One side of the ramp 206 can have multiple surface materials 204, 205 attached thereto. Moving the friction device 200 axially (arrows 88) can cause the object to impact either the surface material 204 or 205. If the surface materials 204, 205 have different textures or friction coefficients, then impacting one or the other can alter the spin 94 or trajectory 48 of the object 30 when it impacts the friction device 200. The ramp 206 can also have one or more surface materials (e.g., 208) attached to an opposite side of the ramp 206. The ramp 206 can be configured to rotate about the axis 92 such that the surface material 208 is positioned to impact the object 30 at position 30”’. The surface materials 204, 205, 208 can be various wool fibrous materials, plastics, cottons, foam rubbers, metals such as steel, lead, copper, aluminum, or metal alloys, plant-based material, or fungus-based material.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the surface material 204, 205, 208 can have a friction coefficient that is at least 0.010, at least 0.015, at least 0.20, at least 0.25, at least 0.30, at least 0.35, at least 0.40, at least 0.45, at least 0.50, at least 0.55, at least 0.60, at least 0.65, at least 0.70, at least 0.75, at least 0.80, at least 0.85, at least 0.090, at least 0.095, at least 0.10, at least 0.15, at least 0.20, at least 0.30, at least 0.40, at least 0.50, at least 0.60, at least 0.70, at least 0.80, at least 0.90, or at least 1.00.

In another non-limiting embodiment, the surface material 204, 205, 208 can have a friction coefficient that is less than 1.50, less than 1.45, less than 1.40, less than 1.35, less than 1.30, less than 1.25, less than 1.20, less than 1.15, less than 1.10, less than 1.05, less than 1.00, less than 0.95, less than 0.90.

It will be appreciated that the friction coefficient may be within a range including any one of the minimum and maximum values noted above, including, for example, but not limited to at least 0.20 and less than 1.35, or within a range of at least 0.01 and less than 1.50, or within a range of at least 0.25 inches and less than 1.35.

FIG. 7 is a representative partial cross-sectional view of the friction device 200 along line 7-7 as shown in FIG.5. The structure 210 can rotate (arrows 95) about the center axis 90 of the barrel 360. With the friction device 200 coupled to the structure 210 via the rotatable support 202, the friction device 200 can be rotated (arrows 96) about the center axis 90. The friction device 200 can be inclined relative to the center axis 90 by being raised up or down (arrows 89) relative to the center axis 90. Therefore, the friction device 200 can be positioned at any azimuthal position about the center axis 90 as well as being rotated about its own axis 92 (arrows 87). When the object 30, traveling along the trajectory 46, impacts the friction device 200 it can be deflected from the friction device 200 along a trajectory 48 with a spin 94 at position 30””. The desired spin 94 to the object 30 can also be represented as the desired yaw, pitch, and roll of the object 30.

FIGS. 8A-8D are representative partial cross-sectional views along line 8-8 as shown in FIG. 5 of a barrel 360 or barrel assemblies 370 of a delivery device 20. FIG. 8A shows a single barrel 360 with a smooth internal bore 368 and an outer surface 362. This barrel 360 can be used to minimize spin imparted to the object 30 as the object travels along the trajectory 46 through the barrel 360. FIG. 8B shows a single barrel 360 with a grooved internal bore 368 with grooves 364 and ridges 366. These grooves 364 and ridges 366 can be referred to as “rifling” of the barrel 360. The grooves 364 and ridges 366 can form helically oriented paths along the internal bore of the barrel 360 that can impart either clockwise or counterclockwise rotation of the object 30 as it travels along the barrel 360. However, the grooves 364 and ridges 366 can be parallel with the center axis 90 to minimize rotation of the object 30 along the trajectory 46 in the barrel 360.

In a non-limiting embodiment, an inner diameter D2 of the internal bore 368 can be larger than the object diameter DI by at least 0.01% of DI, at least 0.1% of DI, at least 0.2% of DI, at least 0.3% of DI, at least 0.4% of DI, at least 0.5% of DI, at least 0.6% of DI, at least 0.7% of DI, at least 0.8% of DI, at least 0.9% of DI, at least 1.0% of DI, at least 1.1% of DI, at least 1.2% of DI, at least 1.3% of DI, at least 1.4% of DI, at least 1.5% of DI, at least 1.6% of DI, at least 1.7% of DI, at least 1.8% of DI, at least 1.9% of DI, or at least 2.0% of DI.

In another non-limiting embodiment, the inner diameter D2 of the internal bore 368 can be larger than the object diameter DI by less than 20% of DI, less than 19% of DI, less than 18% of DI, less than 17% of DI, less than 16% of DI, less than 15% of DI, less than 14% of DI, less than 13% of DI, less than 12% of DI, less than 11% of DI, less than 10% of DI, less than 9% of DI, less than 8% of DI, less than 7% of DI, less than 6% of DI, less than 5% of DI, less than 4% of DI, less than 3% of DI, less than 2% of DI, or less than 1% of Dl.

It will be appreciated that inner diameter D2 of the internal bore 368 may be larger than the object diameter DI within a range including any one of the minimum and maximum values noted above, including, for example, but not limited to at least 0.01% of DI and less than 20% of DI, or within a range of at least 0.1 % of DI and less than 10% of DI, or within a range of at least 0.1% of DI and less than 2% of DI.

FIG. 8C shows a barrel assembly 370 that can include multiple barrels 360. In this example configuration, the barrel assembly 370 includes four barrels (360a, 360b, 360c, 360d) that can be rotated together around axis 374 (arrows 372). Each of the barrels 360a, 360b, 360c, 360d can have grooved or smooth bores. Therefore, the controller 28, 29, or user 4, 8 can select which of the barrels to be used in delivering the object 30. In FIG. 8C, the top barrel 360a is in the position of receiving the object 30 and delivering the object along the trajectory 46 and axis 90. If the assembly 370 were rotated clockwise (arrows 372) by one barrel position, then the barrel 360d can be positioned to receive the object 30 and deliver the object along the trajectory 46 and axis 90.

FIG. 8D shows a barrel assembly 370 that can include multiple barrels 360. In this example configuration, the barrel assembly 370 includes two barrels (360a, 360b) that can be moved side to side (arrows 376). Each of the barrels 360a, 360b, can have grooved or smooth bores. Therefore, the controller 28, 29, or user 4, 8 can select which of the barrels to be used in delivering the object 30. In FIG. 8D, the left barrel 360a is in the position of receiving the object 30 and delivering the object along the trajectory 46 and axis 90. If the assembly 370 were moved to the left (arrows 376), then the barrel 360b can be positioned to receive the object 30 and deliver the object along the trajectory 46 and axis 90. It should be understood that various other barrel or barrel assembly configurations can be used in keeping with the principles of this disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a representative functional block diagram of an object sorter 270 for a delivery device 20 that can support the systems and methods of the current disclosure. In a non-limiting embodiment, the object sorter 270 with body 280 may be provided to automatically sort a variety of different objects 30 and deliver the sorted objects (e.g., 30a, 30b) to multiple storage bins 150 (e.g., 150a, 150b) in the delivery device 20. In this example, a bin 282 can contain multiple types of objects 30a, 30b which can have at least one different characteristic than the other objects. The various characteristics of an object can be color, shape, surface texture, surface features, size, weight, or a visually identifiable marking (e.g., bar code, Q-code, etc.). The different objects 30a, 30b can be delivered to the object sorter 272 via a conduit or passage 274. The object sorter 272 can be configured to detect the particular differences between the objects 30a and objects 30b. After identifying the differences, the sorter can deliver the appropriate objects to the appropriate storage bins 150a, 150b via passageways 276, 278. If more objects 30 are used, with additional storage bins 150 to contain the different objects 30 after being sorted, then this may require more passageways to deliver the objects to the appropriate storage bins 150.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the delivery device 20 parameters can comprise one or more of the following: a selection of a barrel through which to propel the object; an air pressure supplied to the training object 30 to propel the training object 30 through a barrel 360 with a center axis 90; an air volume supplied to the training object 30; an inclination of the barrel 360; an azimuthal orientation of the barrel 360; a length of the barrel 360; a barrel 360 selection; an inclination of a friction device 200 that comprises a ramp 206 and a surface material 204, 205, 208 on the ramp 206; an azimuthal orientation of the friction device 200 around the center axis 90 of the barrel 360; an azimuthal orientation of the friction device 200 about a longitudinal axis 92 of the friction device 200; a length of the friction device 200; a surface material 204, 205, 208 of the friction device 200; an object launch position from the delivery device 20, the object launch position being a location in 3D space of an X-Y-Z coordinate system; an object 30 selection; a height of the delivery device 20; an inclination of the delivery device 20; an azimuthal orientation of the delivery device 20; a distance to a target zone 50; and a height of the target zone 50.

FIG. 10 is a representative functional block diagram of a control system 350 for a training system 10. The local controller 28 can be communicatively coupled to a remotely located controller 29 via network 33b, the game statistics database 36 via network 33a, and input device 342, and a display 340. The input device 342 can provide a human-machine- interface (HMI) that accepts user inputs (trainee 8, coach 4, or others) including voice commands, and transmits the user inputs to one or more processors 330 of the controller 28. In a non-limiting embodiment, the input device 342 can be a keyboard, mouse, trackball, virtual reality sensors, graphical user interface GUI, a touch screen, mechanical interface panel switches, a button, a stride sensor, microphone to input voice commands recognized by the controller 28, video sensors to detect gestures of a trainee 8 or coach 4 other individual.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the display 340 can be used to display performance scores to a user (i.e., trainee 8, coach 4, other individual, etc.), GUI interface windows, training trajectory (single or multiple), emulated game trajectory 140, and player 14 associated with the game trajectory 140, video of game trajectory 140, video of training trajectory while or after object is projected to target zone, training statistics, and trends, selection criteria for objects 30, selection criteria for training trajectories 40, delivery device 20 parameters and parameters selected by the input device. For example, in baseball or softball training, the display 340 can be used to display a type of pitch, the speed of delivery of object 30 at the target zone 50, a location of delivery of the object 30 at the target zone 50, text messages about the delivered object 30, animations, videos, photos, or alerts about the delivered object 30. The display is intended to provide the trainee 8 or coach 4 immediate feedback about the delivered object 30. The input device 342 and display 340 are shown separate, but they can be integrated together in a device, such as a smartphone, smart tablet, laptop, touchscreen, etc.

The network interface 332 can manage network protocols for communicating with external systems (e.g., controller 29, database 36, imagery sensors 32, tracking device 190, etc.) to facilitate communication between the processor(s) 330 and the external systems. These external systems are shown connected to the network 34, but they can also be disconnected and reconnected as needed. For example, the tracking device 190 may not be connected to the network until it is positioned on a docking station for downloading its acquired data. Additionally, the delivery device 20 may not always be connected to an external network. When it is reconnected to an appropriate external network, the communication between the external systems can again be enabled.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the processor(s) 330 can be communicatively coupled to a non-transitory memory storage 37 which can be used to store program instructions 334 and information in databases 38, 336, 338, 344, 346. The processor(s) 330 can store and read instructions 334 from the memory 37 and execute these instructions to perform any of the methods and operations described in this disclosure for the delivery device 20. The delivery device parameters (see parameters described above) for each training trajectory 40 can be stored in the delivery device parameter database 38 in the memory 37. This database 38 can be organized such that each training trajectory 40 that has been defined by a set of delivery device parameters can have a trajectory entry in the database 38. When this trajectory entry is accessed, the set of delivery device parameters can be transferred to the processor(s) 330, which can use the parameters to adjust the delivery device 20 components to deliver the predetermined trajectory defined by the trajectory entry.

If a user wishes to define a canned sequence of trajectories, then the processor(s) 330 (based on inputs from the input device) can assemble the sequence of trajectories including their associated delivery device parameters, and store the sequence in the sequential trajectory database 336 as a retrievable set of predetermined trajectories. When accessed by the processor(s) 330, the sequential trajectory database 336 can deliver the set of predetermined trajectories to the processor(s) 330 including the delivery device parameters. The processor(s) 330 can then sequentially setup the delivery device 20 to sequentially project objects one after another to produce the desired set of predetermined trajectories in the desired order. The memory 37 may also contain a game trajectory database 338 which stores the game parameters of the game trajectories that have been received from other sources (such as the tracking device 190, the game statistics database 36, or user inputs) and can save them for later emulation by the delivery device 20.

FIGS. 11A-11B are representative functional diagrams of systems and methods for training a trainee to improve coordination, vision training, and/or tracking capabilities through segmenting training 118. In general, for segmenting training a trainee 8 can be positioned proximate a target zone 50, at which the delivery device 20 can project an object 30 along a predetermined trajectory 40. A barrier 220 can be positioned between the delivery device 20 and the trainee 8 so the trainee 8 cannot see the delivery device 20 (at least maybe not directly) as it projects the object 30. The barrier 220 prevents the trainee 8 from seeing the object 30 traveling along a beginning portion of the trajectory 40 after it exits the delivery device 20. After some distance along the trajectory 40, the barrier 220 is no longer obstructing the vision of the trainee 8 and the trainee 8 can begin to locate and track the object 30 as it completes its travel along the remaining portion of the trajectory 40.

As the trainee 8 gets better at tracking the object 30 along the reduced distance of the trajectory 40, the barrier 220 can be moved closer to the trainee 8 to restrict the distance the trainee 8 can see the object 30 along the trajectory 40. This reduced distance causes the trainee 8 to have to hone his eye recognition skills even more to consistently recognize and track the object 30 along the reduced distance of the trajectory 40. When the trainee 8 is able to do this, the barrier can again be moved closer to the trainee 8 to restrict the portion of the trajectory 40 viewable by the trainee 8 even further. This process can be repeated until the trainee 8 can successfully recognize and track the object 30 along a minimum portion of the trajectory 40. FIGS. 11A-11B demonstrate various configurations of using the delivery device 20 to project an object toward the target zone, and one or more movable barrier positioned to restrict the distance along the trajectory 40 that the object is viewable to the trainee 8.

In a non-limiting embodiment, FIG. 11A shows a training system 10 for segmenting training 118 that uses a barrier 220 that can include one or more openings in the barrier through which the delivery device 20 can be configured to project the object along a predetermined trajectory (e.g., trajectory 40). The holes can be positioned in a way as to not allow the trainee 8 to view the object 30 as it exits the delivery device 20. As the object 30 travels along the trajectory 40, the object 30 can travel through one of the openings, with the object possibly being visible to the trainee 8 prior to it passing through the opening, but the barrier 220 still can restrict the vision of the trainee 8.

In a non-limiting embodiment, portions of the barrier 220 can include a plurality of longitudinal slits that run parallel with each other. The orientation of the slits can be vertical, horizontal, or inclined between vertical and horizontal. As the object 30 impacts the slits, the slits move out of the path of the object 30 as the object 30 passes through the slits and then the slits can return to the original position before being displaced by the object 30.

In another non-limiting embodiment, the openings in the barrier 220 can be provided with one or more apertures that can be selectively opened and closed in synchronization with the delivery device 20. When an object 30 is to be delivered along a predetermined trajectory 40 that includes passing through one of the apertures, then the respective aperture can be opened just prior to the object arriving at the aperture and then closed after the object has passed through the aperture.

In this example, the barrier 220 is positioned at a distance L8 from the target zone 50. The delivery device 20 can begin sequentially projecting objects 30 along one or more trajectories 40 (some of the trajectories can be different than the others). The target zone 50 can include sensors 51 that can detect the where and when the object arrives at the target zone 50. This information can be transmitted to the controller 28, 29 for determining a performance score of the trainee 8.

The segmenting training method 118 can include where the trainee 8 attempts to recognize and track the object along the viewable portion of the trajectory 40 and the imaging system (e.g., the imaging sensors 32 and the controller 28, 29) can track the eye movements of the trainee 8. The controller 28, 29 can then correlate the detected eye movements with the trajectory 40 and score the trainee’s ability to recognize and track the object 30 along at least a portion of the trajectory 40.

The segmenting training method 118 can alternatively, or in addition, include an impact device as described above with reference to FIGS. 2A, and 3A-3E where the trainee 8 attempts to recognize and track the object along the viewable portion of the trajectory 40 strike the impact device 52 with a regulation sports tool 12. The controller 28, 29 can collect the data from the sensors 51, 58 and score the trainee 8 on their ability to correctly strike the impact zone 56 of the impact device 52 at the appropriate time and location compared to the arrival time and arrival location of the object 30 at the target zone 50. The trainee 8 can be successively challenged more and more as their score improves and as a result the barrier 220 is moved (arrows 97) closer (e.g., barrier position 220’) or even closer (e.g., barrier position 220”). If the score is not at a level needed to progress moving the barrier closer, then the barrier 220 can remain at its current position or be moved further away from the target zone 50. Also, if the trainee 8 has an acceptable score with barrier 220 at position 220’, but fails to progress further, the barrier 220 can be moved to the original position and the segmenting training can begin again.

FIG. 11B shows a training system 10 used for segmenting training 118 which is similar to the configuration shown in FIG. 11 A, except that a light source 230 can be positioned on the trainee 8 side of the barrier 220 to illuminate object 30 for only the portion of the trajectory 40 desired for the segmenting training 118. If the light source 230 is a type (such as UV light, etc.) that may be harmful to the trainee’s eyes, then the light source 230 can be shielded from the trainee’s eyes so that no direct light is delivered to the trainee’s eyes. However, the light source 230 can still illuminate the object 30 along at least a portion of the trajectory 40. The light source 230 can be moved (arrows 97) along with the barrier 220 to other positions 230’ and 230”. However, the light source 230 can also remain in a position while the barrier 220 is moved. It is not a requirement for the light source 230 to move with the barrier 220.

FIG. 1 IB shows a trainee 8 with a human machine interface (HMI) device that can be used by the trainee 8 to provide user inputs for when the trainee 8 expects the object 30 to arrive at the target zone 50. The trainee 8 can also use the HMI device 170 to indicate recognition of the object 30 along the trajectory 40 as well as when it is received at the target zone 50. The HMI device 170 can be communicatively coupled to the controller 28, 29 via the network 34. The accuracy of receiving the user input from the HMI device 170 at the appropriate time to indicate the arrival of the object 30 can be scored by the controller 28, 29 (or the coach 4, or other individual). The trainee 8 can use an HMI device instead of a sports tool for any of the training systems described in this disclosure. For example, a trainee 8 with an HMI device 170 can be used to perform strike zone training, where the trainee 8 indicates, via the HMI device 170 when the object 30 is received at the target zone either inside or outside the target zone 50. Additionally, a trainee 8 with an HMI device 170 can be used to perform impact device training, where the trainee 8 indicates, via the HMI device 170, when the object 30 is received at the target zone instead of striking the impact device 52 with a sports tool 12.

VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

Embodiment 1. A method for training comprising: determining, via a controller, physical characteristics of a trainee; adjusting a target zone based on the physical characteristics; adjusting one or more parameters of a delivery device based on the physical characteristics; projecting, via the delivery device, an object toward the target zone along a trajectory; and scoring a performance score of the trainee to track the object along a portion of the trajectory.

Embodiment 2. The method of embodiment 1, further comprising: detecting, via one or more sensors, the physical characteristics of the trainee; determining settings for the one or more parameters based on the physical characteristics; and projecting the object along the trajectory defined by the settings of the one or more parameters.

Embodiment 3. The method of embodiment 1, wherein adjusting the one or more parameters comprises automatically adjusting, via a controller, the one or more parameters based on the physical characteristics.

Embodiment 4. The method of embodiment 1, wherein the physical characteristics comprise one of: an overall height of the trainee; a height of a knee of the trainee; a height of a shoulder of the trainee; a length of a leg of the trainee; a length of an arm of the trainee; a position of the trainee; a width of the trainee; and a combination thereof.

Embodiment 5. The method of embodiment 1, wherein characteristics of the trajectory are controlled by settings of the one or more parameters of the delivery device.

Embodiment 6. The method of embodiment 5, wherein the one or more parameters comprise one or more of: a selection of a barrel through which to propel the object; an air pressure supplied to the object to propel the object through the barrel with a center axis; an air volume supplied to the object; an inclination of the barrel; an azimuthal orientation of the barrel; a length of the barrel; an inclination of a friction device which comprises a ramp and a surface material on the ramp; an azimuthal orientation of the friction device around the center axis of the barrel; an azimuthal orientation of the friction device about a longitudinal axis of the friction device; a distance of the friction device from the barrel; the surface material of the friction device; an object launch position from the delivery device, the object launch position being a 3D position in X-Y-Z coordinate space relative to the target zone or the trainee; an object selection; a distance to the target zone or the trainee; and a height of the target zone or the trainee.

Embodiment 7. The method of embodiment 1, wherein adjusting the target zone comprises one of: moving the target zone vertically; moving the target zone horizontally; moving the target zone toward the delivery device; moving the target zone away the delivery device; increasing or decreasing a height of the target zone; increasing or decreasing a width of the target zone; and a combination thereof.

Embodiment 8. The method of embodiment 7, wherein the trajectory is configured to mimic a game trajectory of a game object in a real-life event; wherein a player to which the game object was projected in the real-life event has different physical characteristics than the trainee; and wherein the one or more parameters are adjusted to mimic the game trajectory that is adjusted to accommodate adjustments of the target zone.

Embodiment 9. The method of embodiment 1, wherein determining the physical characteristics of the trainee comprises: identifying the trainee via voice recognition, facial recognition, body movements, or combinations thereof; and retrieving the physical characteristics from a database.

Embodiment 10. A method for sports training comprising: projecting, via a delivery device, an object toward a target zone along a trajectory at a first speed; a trainee attempting to impact the object at an appropriate location with a desired impact location of a sport tool; capturing imagery, via an imaging sensor, that contains the object at the appropriate location and the desired impact location of the sport tool; determining a horizontal distance, and a vertical distance between the desired impact location of the sport tool and the object arriving at the appropriate location; and scoring a performance of the trainee to impact the object at the appropriate location based on the horizontal distance and the vertical distance.

Embodiment 11. The method of embodiment 10, wherein the imagery contains a grid that is positioned perpendicular to the target zone, and wherein the grid provides a visual reference for determining the horizontal distance, and the vertical distance.

Embodiment 12. The method of embodiment 10, wherein the imagery is analyzed by a controller to determine the horizontal distance, and the vertical distance.

Embodiment 13. The method of embodiment 10, wherein the appropriate location is at the target zone or before the target zone.

Embodiment 14. The method of embodiment 10, wherein an impact device is positioned at the target zone, with the target zone positioned on one side of the impact device and the sport tool configured to impact an opposite side of the impact device. Embodiment 15. The method of embodiment 10, further comprising: projecting, via the delivery device, a next object toward the target zone along the trajectory at a second speed, wherein the second speed is different than the first speed; and scoring a performance of the trainee to impact the next object at the appropriate location.

Embodiment 16. The method of embodiment 10, further comprising: projecting, via the delivery device, a plurality of objects toward the target zone along the trajectory at a plurality of speeds; and scoring a performance of the trainee to impact each of the plurality of objects at the appropriate location.

Embodiment 17. A method for training comprising: projecting, via a delivery device, a first object toward a first segment of a target zone along a trajectory, wherein the first segment is selected based on a first color that is received at a controller, and wherein the controller adjusts one or more parameters of the delivery device to deliver the first object along the trajectory to the first segment; and scoring a performance score of a trainee to impact the first object at an appropriate location at the target zone.

Embodiment 18. The method of embodiment 17, further comprising: receiving a second color at the controller that indicates a second segment of the target zone; and adjusting the one or more parameters of the delivery device to deliver a second object along the trajectory to the second segment; and scoring a performance score of the trainee to impact the second object at an appropriate location at the target zone.

Embodiment 19. The method of embodiment 17, further comprising: assigning, via the controller, a color to each segment of the target zone based on a heat map for the trainee, wherein the heat map is a color map of the target zone to indicate performance levels of the trainee for each segment of the target zone; and adjusting the one or more parameters of the delivery device to deliver one or more objects to the target zone according to the heat map.

Embodiment 20. The method of embodiment 19, wherein the one or more objects are projected by the delivery device to segments of the target zone that are indicated by a third color that indicates a first performance level of the trainee. Embodiment 21. The method of embodiment 20, wherein one or more additional objects are projected by the delivery device to segments of the target zone that are indicated by a fourth color that indicates a second performance level of the trainee.

Embodiment 22. The method of embodiment 21, wherein the first performance level indicates a poor performance by the trainee, and the second performance level indicates an average performance level by the trainee that is higher than the poor performance level.

Embodiment 23. The method of embodiment 17, further comprising: prior to projecting the first object, indicating to the trainee, via augmented reality goggles, the first segment that is to receive the first object.

Embodiment 24. A method for training comprising: performing, via a controller, facial recognition, or voice recognition of a trainee; verifying, via the controller, that the trainee is approved to receive training from a delivery device; projecting, via the delivery device, an object toward a target zone along a predetermined trajectory; the trainee interacting with the object at the target zone; scoring a performance of the trainee interacting with the object; and initiating a subsequent action of the delivery device based on a command from the trainee to the delivery device.

Embodiment 25. The method of embodiment 24, wherein the command is a voice command is one of: project next object; reduce speed; increase speed; repeat; pause; resume; start session; select mode; end session; select training session; provide score; provide training statistics; and a combination thereof. Embodiment 26. The method of embodiment 24, wherein the command is a body movement, wherein the body movement is recognized by the delivery device and the delivery device performs one or more pre-determined actions as a result of the body movement. While the present disclosure may be susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and tables and have been described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the embodiments are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the following appended claims. Further, although trainee embodiments are discussed herein, the disclosure is intended to cover all combinations of these embodiments.