Batting practice stand

Abstract

The present invention provides a batting practice stand that reduces the distance the ball-holding part travels, shortens the time it takes to return to its original position, and suppresses the generation of abnormal noises during the return process. [Solution] The device comprises a base 1, a cylindrical support column 2 erected on the base, a ball holding part 3 detachably installed at the tip of the cylindrical support column, and a biasing means 4 disposed inside the hollow of the cylindrical support column and biasing the ball holding part downward. The upper end opening of the cylindrical support column is provided with a flange-shaped part 23 and a cushioning member 24. The ball holding part comprises a main body 31, a contact member 32 that can abut against the upper end opening of the flange part, and a holding surface 33 that holds the ball at the tip of the main body. The biasing means comprises non-elastic members 40, 41 fixed to the contact member and a tensile elastic member 42 continuous therewith.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a batting practice stand, and more particularly to a stand for practicing hitting a ball that is held at a predetermined height and stationary.

Background Art

[0002] As a batting practice stand for holding a ball at a predetermined height, there is a configuration in which a wire is connected to the ball, and a tension coil spring or a weight is connected to the wire and disposed inside a support column to restore the ball (see Patent Document 1). However, in this technique, since a wire is connected to the ball, the trajectory of the hit ball cannot be confirmed, and if the urethane rubber on which the ball is installed is accidentally hit, the stand may be toppled.

[0003] On the other hand, a configuration has been developed in which a cylindrical support portion (ball holding portion) for holding a ball is placed on the upper end of a support column, and the support portion (ball holding portion) is connected to the support column via a compression spring and a tension spring (see Patent Document 2). In this technique, the joint surface between the support portion (ball holding portion) and the support column is tapered, and even if the support portion (ball holding portion) is hit when hitting the ball, it can be restored within a range where the contact of the joint surface due to the taper does not collapse. However, when the support portion (ball holding portion) is hit with such strength that the support portion (ball holding portion) detaches from the support column, a situation occurs where the support portion (ball holding portion) cannot restore itself because the joint surface is tapered. Therefore, a technique has been developed in which the joint surface between the support column and the ball holding portion is made flat, and the ball holding portion can restore itself even after detaching from the joint surface (see Patent Document 3).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

[0005] The technology disclosed in the aforementioned Patent Document 3 is configured such that a flange member is provided at the lower part of the ball-holding portion and can be installed at the upper end of the support column. The flange member has a larger diameter than the opening diameter of the support column, and a weight is connected to its lower surface via a chain or wire, and the weight of this weight biases the flange member toward the upper end of the support column.

[0006] However, in conventional examples of the above configuration, the biasing force on the ball holder (flange member) is applied solely by the weight of the weight itself. Therefore, if the ball holder is struck with enough force to move the weight (enough to detach the ball holder from the support column), it can move within the limits of what is possible against the weight of the weight itself. In other words, when the ball holder detaches from the support column, the ball holder pulls the weight upward, and the weight, being pulled upward by a force greater than its own weight, begins to rise. After the tensile force is removed, the weight descends by free fall, restoring the ball holder. This movement of the weight is subject to the acceleration of gravity, and inertial force also acts on the moving weight. Therefore, when sufficient force is applied to move the weight significantly (enough to detach the ball holder from the support), the rising weight continues to rise due to inertia even after the tensile force is removed, resulting in a state where it cannot exert any biasing force. As the ball holder can move freely after detaching from the support, the ball holder may travel unnecessarily long distances, and the distance the weight must descend to return to its original position also becomes longer. Furthermore, after the tensile force is removed, the rising weight stops due to the acceleration of gravity, and then descends by free fall, meaning that it takes a long time for the ball holder to return to its original position after detaching from the support. In addition, as the rising weight descends, the acceleration of gravity acts on it, causing the descent speed to gradually increase, and just before returning to its original position, it moves at high speed. This causes the chain (or wire) near the rapidly moving ball holder (flange) to rub violently against or collide strongly with the support, generating loud noises.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and its objective is to provide a batting practice stand that reduces the distance traveled by the ball-holding part, shortens the time until it returns to its original position, and suppresses the generation of abnormal noise during the return to its original position. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] Therefore, the first invention relating to a batting practice stand is a batting practice stand comprising a base, a cylindrical support column erected upward relative to the base, a ball holding part detachably installed at the tip of the cylindrical support column, and a biasing means disposed inside the hollow of the cylindrical support column for biasing the ball holding part downward, wherein the upper end opening of the cylindrical support column comprises a flange-shaped part and a cushioning member attached to the upper surface of the flange part, and the ball holding part comprises the flange part The biasing means comprises a contact member that can contact the buffer member while closing the upper end opening, a support extension portion that is erected on the flange portion and continuous with the cylindrical support when the contact member contacts the buffer member, and a holding surface portion that holds a ball at the tip of the support extension portion, wherein the biasing means comprises an inelastic member fixed to the contact member and a tensile elastic member provided continuously with the inelastic member, and the base end of the tensile elastic member is fixed at an appropriate position on the cylindrical support.

[0009] In the batting practice stand with the above configuration, the ball holder is biased by a biasing means installed inside the hollow of the support column. This biasing means is composed of two types of members: an inelastic member and a tensile elastic member. Because a tensile biasing force is constantly applied by the tensile elastic member, even if the ball holder is hit hard enough to detach it from the support column, the distance the ball holder moves is reduced, and the time required for recovery is also reduced. Furthermore, since the inelastic member constituting the biasing means is fixed to a contact member that is continuous with the tensile elastic member and closes the upper end opening of the flange portion, the area in contact with the upper end opening of the support column can be limited to the inelastic member, thereby reducing the generation of abnormal noise due to contact between the upper end opening of the support column and the inelastic member. In addition, since a cushioning member is attached to the upper surface of the flange portion, the generation of abnormal noise due to contact with the inelastic member and contact with the contact portion can be reduced.

[0010] In the above configuration, the cushioning member may be attached to the upper surface of the flange portion constituting the cylindrical support column, or it may be positioned in a manner that allows it to contact the upper surface of the flange portion. In this case, the contact member of the ball holding portion will close the upper end opening of the flange portion with the cushioning member interposed between them, and the interposition of the cushioning member will cause the contact member to indirectly contact the flange portion when closing the upper end opening. The configuration in which the contact member is positioned in a manner that allows it to contact the upper surface of the flange portion may include, for example, a case where the cushioning member is attached to the contact member.

[0011] The second invention relating to a batting practice stand is the same as the first invention, wherein the non-elastic member is fixed to the contact member and comprises a connecting portion having an elongated hole in the axial direction of the extension portion of the support column, and a metal chain attached to the connecting portion, with one end of the metal chain connected to the connecting portion and the other end connected to the tensile elastic member, the tensile elastic member being composed of a tensile coil spring, with one end of the tensile coil spring connected to the other end of the metal chain and the other end as the base end, and is fixed at an appropriate position on the cylindrical support column while generating a tensile force.

[0012] In the batting practice stand with the above configuration, the tensile elastic member is made of a tensile coil spring, allowing a tensile force dependent on the spring constant of the coil spring to be applied to the ball holder. Furthermore, since the non-elastic member is made of a continuous metal chain using elongated holes in the connecting part, the interposition of the chain between the ball holder and the tensile coil spring reduces the torsional stress acting on the tensile coil spring. As a result, the tensile force generated by the tensile coil spring can be stably applied to the ball holder, enabling quick recovery.

[0013] The third invention relating to a batting practice stand is that, in the second invention, the cylindrical support column is fitted with a resin member so as to surround the tension coil spring in the region where the tension coil spring is located.

[0014] With the batting practice stand configured as described above, when an external force acts on the tension coil spring, vibrations are transmitted, and the generation of abnormal noise caused by contact with the surrounding area (inner surface of the support column) can be suppressed. The resin member used here only needs to be positioned in a way that it can surround the tension coil spring, and may be configured by coating the inner surface of a cylindrical support column with resin material, or by inserting an independent cylindrical resin member. The resin member refers to various members made of synthetic resin, and vinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene, and other general-purpose plastics can be used. The area in which the tension coil spring is positioned generally refers to the area in which it may vibrate and come into contact with the surrounding area when a tensile force is applied (when the tension coil spring expands and contracts). Therefore, when a strong tensile force is applied, the possibility of it being pulled strongly and coming into contact with the surrounding area is reduced, so it is sufficient to position it in the initial state (slightly stretched when a tensile force is applied), but it may also be understood to include the entire range in which the tension coil spring can expand.

[0015] The fourth invention relating to a batting practice stand is the third invention wherein the cylindrical support column has a plurality of engagement holes, a through bolt is fitted into one of the engagement holes, and the base end of the tension coil spring is fixed by hooking it onto the through bolt.

[0016] In the batting practice stand with the above configuration, the biasing force provided by the tension coil spring can be adjusted by selecting one of several engagement holes. This allows for adjustment because the tension coil spring may change its spring constant due to slight plastic deformation over long-term use.

[0017] The sixth invention relating to a batting practice stand is the first invention, wherein the upper end opening of the cylindrical support column is fitted to the upper surface of the flange portion and comprises a diameter-reducing member having a through portion smaller in diameter than the inner diameter of the cylindrical support column, the biasing means comprises a plate-shaped stopper fitted between the inelastic member and the tensile elastic member and having a flat portion larger in diameter than the through portion of the diameter-reducing member, and when the ball holding portion moves against the biasing force of the biasing means and extends the tensile elastic member, the extension of the tensile elastic member is permitted within the range until the stopper contacts the diameter-reducing member.

[0018] In the batting practice stand with the above configuration, the diameter-reducing member is attached to the flange portion at the upper end opening of the cylindrical support column, thus being fixedly positioned at the upper end opening of the cylindrical support column and reducing the opening diameter of the opening. On the other hand, the stopper installed between the inelastic member and the tensile elastic member is configured as a plate with a larger diameter than the penetration portion of the diameter-reducing member, so that the stopper cannot pass through the penetration portion of the diameter-reducing member. Therefore, even if the position of the stopper changes (rises) due to the stretching of the tensile elastic member, the stretching of the tensile elastic member is restricted when the stopper reaches the diameter-reducing member, thereby suppressing excessive stretching of the tensile elastic member.

[0019] Furthermore, when the diameter-reducing member is attached to the upper surface of the flange portion, if the cushioning member is provided in a manner that allows it to contact the upper surface of the flange portion, the flange portion will be formed with the diameter-reducing member attached to the upper surface. If the cushioning member is attached to the upper surface of the flange portion, the flange portion will be formed with the diameter-reducing member attached between the upper surface and the cushioning member.

[0020] Furthermore, the seventh invention relating to a batting practice stand is the same as the sixth invention, wherein the inelastic member is fixed to the contact member and comprises a first connecting portion having an elongated hole in the axial direction of the extension portion of the support column, and a metal chain attached to the first connecting portion, the stopper comprises a second connecting portion on one surface and a third connecting portion on the other surface, one end of the metal chain is connected to the first connecting portion and the other end is connected to the second connecting portion of the stopper, and the tensile elastic member is made of a tensile coil spring, one end of the tensile coil spring is connected to the third connecting portion of the stopper and the other end is the base end, and is fixed at an appropriate position on the cylindrical support column while generating tensile force.

[0021] With the batting practice stand configured as described above, similar to the second invention described above, the tensile elastic member, which is composed of a tension coil spring, can apply a tensile force to the ball-holding part that depends on the spring constant of the coil spring. Furthermore, since the inelastic member is composed of a metal chain, and the tension coil spring and the metal chain are connected to both sides of the stopper via connecting parts, the effect of torsional stress on the tension coil spring can be reduced.

[0022] Furthermore, the eighth invention relating to a batting practice stand is that, in the seventh invention, the diameter-reducing member is formed in a substantially horseshoe shape having an open portion in which the through portion is partially open, and the metal chain is inserted through the open portion, thereby inserting the metal chain inside the through portion.

[0023] According to the batting practice stand with the above structure, since the diameter-reducing member is mounted between the upper surface of the flange portion and the buffer member, it has a sufficient outer diameter. Moreover, since the through-hole of the diameter-reducing member is provided with a smaller diameter than the outer diameter of the stopper, it becomes impossible to dispose it between the buffer member and the stopper. However, since an opening portion is provided in a part of the through-hole in a substantially horseshoe shape, a metal chain can be inserted using this opening portion. By inserting this metal chain, it becomes possible to dispose the diameter-reducing member at an appropriate position.

[0024] A ninth invention related to the batting practice stand is, in the first to eighth inventions, characterized in that the base portion includes a flat portion having an appropriate area and a mountain-shaped protrusion protruding downward from an edge of the flat portion.

[0025] According to the batting practice stand with the above structure, when using the flat portion constituting the base portion on the ground or the like, it is possible to penetrate the protrusion into the soil of the ground, so that the effect as an anti-slip can be exhibited.

[0026] A tenth invention related to the batting practice stand is, in the first to eighth inventions, characterized in that the base portion includes a flat portion having an appropriate area, a circular hole penetrating through a part of the flat portion in a circular shape, and a bat standing portion constituted by a cylindrical member detachably provided in the circular hole.

[0027] According to the batting practice stand with the above structure, by attaching a cylindrical member to the circular hole provided in the flat portion of the base portion, this cylindrical member can be used as an insertion portion of the bat. By appropriately adjusting the inner diameter of the cylindrical member, either the tip of the grip side or the head side of the bat can be inserted, so that the bat can be held in a standing state.

[0028] The eleventh invention relating to a batting practice stand is that, in the first to eighth inventions, the cylindrical support column is provided with a connecting flange at its base end for connection with the base, the base is provided with a flat surface of an appropriate area, and the cylindrical support column is erected on the base by fastening the connecting flange to the flat surface.

[0029] With the batting practice stand configured as described above, the base and the rest of the stand can be separated. Firstly, if the base is made of a large flat surface, separation improves efficiency during transport, especially during repairs or parts replacement. Secondly, it becomes easier to change to other types of bases. Thirdly, it becomes possible to separate the stand during partial repairs or replacements. Fourthly, by interposing a spacer between the base and the connecting flange, the direction in which the cylindrical support column is erected can be adjusted, allowing it to be erected perpendicular to the flat surface of the base.

[0030] In the above configuration, when fastening the connecting flange to the base, it is generally best to fasten it near the center of a flat area of ​​appropriate size. However, if the flat area is considered as a home plate, by providing a movable member on the flat area so that the cylindrical support can be moved towards the outside corner (further from the player than the center of the home plate) or towards the inside corner (closer to the player than the center of the home plate), the ball-holding section extending above the cylindrical support erected towards the outside corner or inside corner can be positioned towards the outside corner or inside corner. In this case, the movable member may be a rail that enables linear movement, or a turntable that enables arc-shaped movement.

[0031] The twelfth invention relating to a batting practice stand is that, in the first to eighth inventions, the cylindrical support column comprises a first support column fixed to the base, a second support column inserted inside the first support column and slidable in the axial direction, and a fixing member that stops the sliding of the first support column and the second support column relative to each other.

[0032] In the batting practice stand with the above configuration, the overall length of the cylindrical support column can be changed by sliding the second support column relative to the first support column, and by changing this length, it is possible to adjust the height of the ball held by the ball holding section.

[0033] According to the above configuration, the biasing means for biasing the ball-holding portion at the tip of the cylindrical support (second support) is arranged inside the hollow of the second support, and the base end of the biasing means is fixed to an appropriate position on the second support. In order to adjust the biasing force provided by the biasing means, the fixing position can be configured such that through holes are provided in advance at several locations, a fixing shaft is inserted through an appropriate through hole, and the base end of the biasing means is locked to the shaft. As for the fixing shaft, in addition to using a hexagonal bolt, a configuration can be used in which the fixing shaft does not protrude from the cylindrical support (second support) by using a hexagonal socket head bolt that has no head or has a small head. In such a case, when inserting the second support into the first support, the area in which the fixing shaft is arranged can also be arranged inside the first support. This is suitable when the cylindrical support column is made extremely short, that is, when the height of the ball held by the ball-holding part is set low.

[0034] The 13th invention relating to a batting practice stand is the same as the 12th invention, wherein the second support column is provided so as to be rotatable in the circumferential direction when inserted into the first support column, the fixing member stops the rotation of the second support column, the second support column is divided into an insertion region to be inserted into the first support column and a housing region for housing the biasing means, the insertion region and the housing region are formed along different axes from each other, and a continuous region is formed between the insertion region and the housing region, connecting the two.

[0035] In the batting practice stand with the above configuration, the cylindrical support columns, specifically the first and second columns, form a single cylindrical support column when the insertion area of ​​the second column is inserted into the first column. At this time, since the insertion area and the housing area of ​​the second column are aligned along different axes, the axis of the housing area deviates from the extension of the axis of the insertion area. By rotating the second column, the housing area can be positioned around the insertion area. Therefore, by adjusting the state of the second column while maintaining the insertion area of ​​the second column inserted into the first column, it becomes possible to simultaneously adjust the height (vertical position) and horizontal position of the extension portion of the column continuous with its upper end and the holding surface portion provided at its tip. This makes it possible to practice batting with the ball's height and horizontal position adjusted.

[0036] The fourteenth invention relating to a batting practice stand is the same as the thirteenth invention, wherein the base has a flat surface having the same shape and size as a home plate, the first support column is provided so as to be erected vertically near the center of the flat surface, and the insertion area and the housing area constituting the second support column are formed along mutually parallel axes.

[0037] According to the above configuration, the receiving area constituting the second support column can be positioned with its axis running vertically around the insertion area. Since the position of the insertion area at this time is approximately the same as the position where the first support column is erected, the receiving area can consequently be positioned vertically at a suitable distance from the center of home plate. Therefore, the horizontal position of the support column extension that is continuous with its upper end and the holding surface (i.e., the ball to be held by it) provided at its tip can be adjusted to be positioned around the center of home plate. This makes it possible to practice hitting outside and inside pitches, for example, and by simultaneously adjusting the vertical position (ball height), it becomes possible to practice hitting while imagining balls thrown to various locations, such as low outside or high outside pitches, or low inside or high inside pitches.

[0038] In the above configuration, by arranging the continuous area that connects the insertion area and the storage area horizontally, the position where the insertion area and the storage area are connected is defined as the height, and the second support column can be configured to be continuous in the height direction while displacing their respective axes. Alternatively, the continuous area may be arranged diagonally (with its axis diagonal to the horizontal direction), or the continuous area may be curved or bent so that the height direction position of the continuous area continuous with the insertion area is different from the height direction position of the continuous area continuous with the storage area. When the height direction positions of the two are different, by making the height direction position continuous with the storage area lower than the height direction position continuous with the insertion area, the position of the upper end of the cylindrical support column (second support column) can be lowered, and as a result the position of the ball holding section can be lowered. By lowering the position of the ball holding section, the height of the ball placed is reduced, making it suitable for use by younger children or for batting practice with so-called low balls.

[0039] The 15th invention relating to a batting practice stand is the same as the 14th invention, wherein the lower end of the first support column is provided with a connecting flange for connection with the base, and the first support column is erected on the base by fastening the connecting flange to the flat surface.

[0040] According to the above configuration, the first support column can be fixed to the base (home plate) by fastening the connecting flange. At this time, by providing multiple areas in the base to which the connecting flange can be fastened, the position of the housing area constituting the second support column can be changed as appropriate, and furthermore, the position of the ball to be held by the holding surface can be changed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0041] According to the present invention, the biasing means that applies a biasing force to the ball holder is a tensile elastic member such as a tension coil spring, and a biasing force is always applied to the ball holder. Therefore, even if the ball holder becomes detached from the support column, the distance the ball holder moves can be reduced. This also makes it possible to shorten the time it takes to return to its original position. Furthermore, by installing a diameter-reducing member between the flange portion of the upper end opening of the cylindrical support column and the cushioning member, and by providing a stopper between the tensile elastic member and the non-elastic member, the stretchable range of the tensile elastic member is limited, which further reduces the distance the ball holder moves.

[0042] Furthermore, a cushioning member provided at the point where the ball-holding portion makes contact suppresses the generation of impact noise as an abnormal noise during contact. In the case where a resin member is placed inside the cylindrical support column, the generation of contact noise caused by the vibration of the tensile elastic member (tensile coil spring) and contact with the inside of the support column can be suppressed. As a result, the overall abnormal noise that can be expected to occur can be suppressed.

[0043] In addition to the above, in the case of an invention in which the cylindrical support is separated into a first support and a second support, and the second support is divided into an insertion area and a storage area, the position of the ball to be held by the holding surface can be adjusted not only in height but also in the horizontal direction, making it possible to realize training that simulates a ball being thrown along various courses. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0044] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram showing a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is an explanatory diagram showing a usage embodiment of the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is an explanatory diagram showing the initial state when using the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the embodiment when subjected to an external force. [Figure 5] This is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the embodiment when subjected to an external force. [Figure 6] This is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the embodiment when subjected to an external force. [Figure 7] This is an explanatory diagram showing a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is an explanatory diagram showing the installation procedure for attaching the cushioning member and the reduced-diameter section to the flange of the cylindrical support column. [Figure 9] This is an explanatory diagram showing the installation procedure for attaching the cushioning member and the reduced-diameter section to the flange of the cylindrical support column. [Figure 10] This is an explanatory diagram showing a usage embodiment of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is an explanatory diagram showing a usage embodiment of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the first modification of the embodiment. [Figure 13] This is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the first modification of the embodiment. [Figure 14] This is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the first modification of the embodiment. [Figure 15]This is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the first modification of the embodiment. [Figure 16] This is an explanatory diagram showing a second modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 17] This is an explanatory diagram showing a usage of a second modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 18] This is an explanatory diagram showing a usage of a second modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 19] This is an explanatory diagram showing a third modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 20] This is an explanatory diagram showing a third modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 21] This is an explanatory diagram showing a fourth modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 22] This is an explanatory diagram showing another variation of an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23] This is an explanatory diagram showing another modified embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 24] This is an explanatory diagram showing another modified embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 25] This is an explanatory diagram showing another modified embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 26] This is an explanatory diagram showing another modified embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 27] This is an explanatory diagram showing other variations and different embodiments. [Figure 28] This is an explanatory diagram showing other variations and different embodiments. [Figure 29] This is an explanatory diagram showing other variations and different embodiments. [Figure 30] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating examples of deformations in shape, etc. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0045] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are illustrative examples of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Various components can be modified, or other components can be added.

[0046] <First Embodiment of the Invention> Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is broadly composed of a base 1, a cylindrical support 2, a ball holding part 3, and a biasing means 4. Each of these parts, except for the ball holding part 3, is made of metal, and in particular, the base 1 and the cylindrical support 2 are preferably made of iron in order to maintain basic strength and obtain an appropriate weight. The base 1 and the cylindrical support 2 are integrated via a flange (connecting flange) 20 provided at the lower end of the support 2, and the flat part 10 forming the base 1 has an appropriate area to prevent the whole structure from tilting, and the cylindrical support 2 is erected vertically from this flat part 10.

[0047] The cylindrical support column 2 is composed of a first support column 21 and a second support column 22, both of which are cylindrical in shape (shown as cylindrical in the figure). The second support column 22 is inserted inside the first support column 21 and is slidably positioned so that the overall length of the cylindrical support column 2 can be adjusted by raising and lowering the second support column 22. The first support column 21 is configured so that a fixing screw (for example, a wing nut) 20a can be screwed into it, and by screwing in this fixing screw 20a, the side wall of the second support column 22 inserted inside is pressed and fixed. The figure illustrates the use of a wing nut as the fixing screw 20a, but the operating part may be a lever type. Furthermore, since the second support column 22 is slidably positioned inside the first support column 21, it is naturally possible to remove the second support column 22, and it is possible to replace only the second support column 21 for repair or other reasons, or to change it to a support column of a different type (with a different shape, etc.).

[0048] Furthermore, a flange portion 23, formed in a flange shape, is provided at the tip (upper end opening) that is open at the upper end of the cylindrical support column 2 (second support column 22), thereby increasing the area of ​​the open end surface. In addition, a cushioning member 24 is laminated on the upper surface of this flange portion 23. Since the cushioning member 24 is laminated only on the upper surface of the flange portion 23, it is formed in a thin-walled annular shape, and the inside of the annular part has a through-hole with the same diameter as the inside of the cylindrical support column 2. In addition to synthetic rubber, foamed resin can be used as the cushioning member 24. The cushioning effect of the cushioning member 24 will be described in detail later, but it is basically provided to mitigate collisions with the ball holding portion 3.

[0049] The ball-holding portion 3 is constructed from a flexible material in a rod shape and consists of a main body portion (support extension portion) 31 that is elongated in the axial direction of the cylindrical support column 2, and a plate-shaped contact member 32 at its lower end that is sized to contact the upper surface of the flange portion 23 (essentially the cushioning member 24). The lower surface of the contact member 32 has a flat annular region, allowing it to be stably placed in contact with the flange portion 23 of the cylindrical support column 2. In this contact position, the axis of the main body portion (support extension portion) 31 is parallel to the axis of the cylindrical support column 2, resulting in an extended state of the cylindrical support column 2. The main body portion (support extension portion) 31 and the contact member 32 can be integrally fixed by screwing a male screw 32a provided on the upper surface of the contact member 32 into a female screw portion 32b provided inside the main body portion (support extension portion) 31. Furthermore, since the flexible material constituting the ball-holding portion 3 could be, for example, foamed resin or synthetic resin, one possible method is to drill a through hole large enough to allow for the engraving of female threads inside it, and then engrave female threads on the lower end surface.

[0050] The upper end of the ball-holding portion 3 is provided with a holding surface portion 33 for holding the ball. This holding surface portion 33 is formed in a spherical shape to receive contact with the outer surface of the ball to be held. However, even if the holding surface portion 33 cannot precisely contact the ball, it is possible to hold the ball if the circular end surface 33a can contact a part of the ball, so it is not necessary for the holding surface portion to be precisely defined. In that sense, the circular end surface 33a formed on the upper part of the ball-holding portion 3 may be used as the holding surface portion.

[0051] The biasing means 4 is composed of inelastic members 40, 41 and a tensile elastic member 42. The inelastic members 40, 41 consist of a connecting portion 40 fixed (welded) to the central part of the lower surface of the contact member 32 of the ball holding portion 3, and a metal chain 41. The metal chain 41 uses several annular parts (2 to 5) (the figure illustrates a state using two annular parts). A metal wire may be used instead of the chain 41 as the inelastic member. Alternatively, the central part of the lower surface of the contact member 32 may be raised and used as the fixing area for the connecting portion 40. In this case, the raised area will not be in contact with the flange portion 23, but by configuring it to engage with the inside of the flange portion 23, it can function as a guide member for positioning when the ball holding portion 3 is installed.

[0052] On the other hand, a tension coil spring can be used as the tensile elastic member 42. Since the tension coil spring 42 is provided with annular connecting fittings at both ends, the entire assembly can function as a long biasing means by hooking these connecting fittings onto the ends of the metal chain 41. The connecting fitting 42a provided at the other end (base end) of the tension coil spring 42 is fixed inside the cylindrical support column 2 (second support column 22).

[0053] In other words, the second support column 22 has multiple through holes (engagement holes) 25 through it, and is configured so that through bolts 26 can be inserted through these through holes 25. Therefore, when inserting a through bolt 26 through any of the through holes 25, the connecting fitting 42a of the base end of the tension coil spring 42 can be inserted simultaneously inside the second support column 22, thereby fixing the base end with the through bolt 26. A nut 27 is screwed onto the opposite side of the through bolt 26, and the tightening force of this nut 27 firmly fixes the through bolt 26 to the cylindrical support column 2 (second support column 22), maintaining the position of the base end (connecting fitting) 42a of the tension coil spring 42. Furthermore, by extending the tension coil spring 42 when fixing the base end (connecting fitting) 42a of the tension coil spring 42, a tensile force from the tension coil spring 42 acts during installation, which becomes a biasing force.

[0054] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the tension coil spring 42 is installed inside the cylindrical support column 2 (second support column 22), it is configured to be placed inside the resin member 5. This resin member 5 is cylindrical in shape using synthetic resin, and by placing the tension coil spring 42 inside it, the tension coil spring 42 can be surrounded by synthetic resin. As for the synthetic resin used in the resin member 5, a commonly used polyvinyl chloride pipe can be used, as well as other polyvinyl chloride resins, polyethylene resins, polypropylene resins, etc.

[0055] <Usage> As the configuration of this embodiment is as described above, when assembled, the ball-holding part 3 is installed so as to extend from the upper end of the support column 2 erected on the base 1, as shown in Figure 2. The holding surface 33 formed at the upper end of the ball-holding part 3 is formed facing upward at its uppermost end, so a ball can be easily placed on this holding surface 33, and by swinging the bat to hit this ball B, it becomes possible to practice hitting the held ball (a ball stationary at a single point) B.

[0056] This initial state is shown in Figure 3. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in Figure 2, but the resin member 5 is omitted. As shown in this figure, in the initial state, the tension coil spring 42 is already stretched, and a tensile force is acting downward (in the direction of the arrow in the figure) on the inelastic members (connecting part and metal chain) 40, 41, biasing the contact member 32 of the ball holding part 3 downward via the inelastic members 40, 41. In this state, the contact member 32 is forced to come into contact with the flange part 23 (cushion member 24) at the upper end of the cylindrical support 2 (second support 22), and the ball holding part 3 can be maintained in a stable upright position. Therefore, even if a ball B is placed on the holding surface 33 formed on the upper part of the ball holding part 3 in this state, the above position will be maintained, and the ball B can be stopped at a predetermined height.

[0057] In the above situation, batting practice is performed, but even if the bat is swung to hit ball B, and even if ball B is hit with the sweet spot of the bat, a part of the bat will simultaneously hit the upper part of the ball holder 3. More precisely, it may be just a slight contact, or it may be that the bat makes contact with the ball holder 3 via ball B.

[0058] In this case, if a bat or other object comes into contact with the ball-holding part 3, a force will be generated that causes the ball-holding part 3 to tilt. Since the ball-holding part 3 is made of a flexible material (such as foamed resin or synthetic resin), it may be possible for the ball-holding part 3 itself to recover through elastic deformation.

[0059] However, if an external force (impact force) exceeding the limit of its elastic deformation is applied, the ball-holding portion 3 will tilt. If the external force (tilting force) F1 at that time is relatively small, as shown in Figure 4, the contact member 32 will tilt and lift up to the extent that it is above the surface of the flange portion 23 (cushioning member 24). In this case, the tensile force of the tension coil spring 42 acts on the contact member 32, allowing it to immediately return to its original position. The cause of the abnormal noise during this restoration is the collision sound between the flange portion 23 and the contact member 32, but since the cushioning member 24 is laminated on the upper surface of the flange portion 23, the generation of abnormal noise can be suppressed.

[0060] When an external force (tilting force) F2 greater than the above condition acts on the ball holding part 3, as shown in Figure 5, the contact member 32 of the ball holding part 3 completely separates from the flange part 23 (cushioning member 24), the connecting part 40 pops outward, and a part of the metal chain 41 is exposed. At this time, since the metal chain 41 is engaged in the elongated hole of the connecting part 40, the metal chain 41 can freely change direction within the range of play of the elongated hole, regardless of the tilting angle or direction of the ball holding part 3, and the torsional stress at that time can be prevented from acting on the tension coil spring 42.

[0061] In this state, the tension coil spring 42 is greatly stretched, but since the tension coil spring 42 is exerting tensile force from the beginning, it continues to act as a tensile force on the ball holder 3 from the moment it detaches and moves away until it returns to its original position. As a result, the ball holder 3 is prevented from detaching over a long distance, and because a tensile force is constantly acting on it, it can return to its original position quickly. The cause of the abnormal noise at this time is, again, the collision sound between the flange portion 23 and the contact member 32, but even in this case, the cushioning member 24 can suppress the generation of the abnormal noise.

[0062] If an even larger force F3 is applied, as shown in Figure 6, the ball-holding portion 3 may tilt completely, and the connecting portion 40 and the metal chain 41 may almost protrude outwards. Even in this case, since the metal chain 41 can freely change direction within the range of play provided by the elongated hole in the connecting portion 40, torsional stress does not act on the tension coil spring 42. Therefore, the tension coil spring 42 can only be subjected to tensile force.

[0063] Even in such cases, the tensile force from the tension coil spring 42 acts continuously, preventing the ball holding portion 3 from moving far and enabling early recovery. In this case, in addition to the collision noise between the flange portion 23 and the contact member 32 as described above, there may also be contact noise caused by the connecting portion 40 and the metal chain 41 coming into contact with the flange portion 23. However, since the cushioning member 24 is present in the areas where the connecting portion 40 and the metal chain 41 are likely to come into contact, the generation of abnormal noise can be suppressed.

[0064] Although omitted from the drawing, the placement of the resin member 6 around the tension coil spring 42 also suppresses contact noise between the tension coil spring 42 and the cylindrical support column 2. In other words, assuming that an external force F3 strong enough to cause the ball holding part 3 to tilt significantly acts on it, and that vibration may be generated by the impact, even if that vibration is transmitted to the tension coil spring 42 and causes it to contact the inside of the cylindrical support column 2, the resin member 6 is interposed between the two, thus suppressing direct contact and thus suppressing the contact noise generated.

[0065] <Second Embodiment of the Present Invention> Figure 7 shows a second embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is basically the same as the first embodiment and is broadly composed of a base 1, a cylindrical support 2, a ball holding part 3, and a biasing means 4. The base 1 and the cylindrical support 2 are integrated, and the flat part 10 forming the base 1 has an appropriate area to prevent the whole structure from tilting, and the cylindrical support 2 is erected vertically from the flat part 10. The ball holding part 3 is composed of a main body part (support extension part) 31 which is arranged in an elongated manner in the axial direction of the cylindrical support 2, and a plate-shaped contact member 32 which is sized to contact the upper surface of the flange part 23 (substantially a cushioning member 24) at its lower end, and a holding surface part 33 for holding a ball is provided at the upper end, which is also the same as in the first embodiment.

[0066] This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the peripheral structure of the flange portion 23 of the cylindrical support column 2 and the configuration of the biasing means 4. Specifically, the cushioning member 24, which is provided in a laminated state on the upper surface of the flange portion 23, has a diameter-reducing member 6 interposed between it and the upper surface of the flange portion 23, and the biasing means 4 is configured with a stopper 43 provided between the metal chain 41 and the tension coil spring 42.

[0067] The diameter-reducing member 6 is composed of a plate-like member with a through-hole 61 near its center. It is made of a thin metal plate and is annular in shape. Its outer diameter is the same as the outer diameter of the flange 23 to be installed, and the diameter of the through-hole 61 is smaller than the inner diameter of the cylindrical support 2, allowing for a partial reduction in the inner diameter of the cylinder. Although the through-hole 61 reduces the inner diameter of the cylindrical support 2, it has a diameter large enough for the metal chain 41 to pass through completely. As the ball holding part 3 moves, the metal chain 41 is pulled outward and exposed to the outside from the cylindrical support 2, allowing it to move while passing through the inside of the through-hole 61. Furthermore, the through-hole 61 is reduced in diameter to such an extent that the stopper 43 (described later) cannot pass through, limiting the range of movement of the metal chain 41. In this sense, the stopper 43 acts as a stopper, stopping at the position of the diameter-reducing member 6.

[0068] The reduced-diameter portion 6 is positioned at an intermediate position between the cushioning member 24 and the stopper 43. However, since the through-hole 61 is configured to be smaller than the outer diameter of the stopper 43, it is not possible to position the reduced-diameter portion 61 in the predetermined location while inserting the through-hole 61. Therefore, an open portion 62 is formed by partially opening the through-hole 61. As a result, the reduced-diameter portion 6 is formed in a roughly horseshoe shape overall. If the reduced-diameter portion 6 is made of an elastically deformable material, it can be positioned in the predetermined location without forming an open portion 62. In this case, it is preferable that it has sufficient rigidity to not easily deform when in contact with the stopper 43, as described later.

[0069] The stopper 43 is provided between the metal chain 41 and the tension coil spring 42. In other words, the metal chain 41 and the tension coil spring 42 are in a continuous state with the stopper 43 interposed between them. The stopper 43 is made of a metal circular plate-shaped member and is positioned with both its front and back surfaces facing vertically. Connecting parts (a second connecting part 43a and a third connecting part 43b) are provided on both the front (upper) and back (lower) surfaces. The second connecting part 43a on the front (upper) surface is connected to the lower end of the chain 41, and the third connecting part 43b on the back (lower) surface is connected to the upper end of the tension coil spring 42.

[0070] Therefore, the procedure for attaching the buffer member 24 and the reduced-diameter portion 6 to the flange 23 of the cylindrical support column 2 will be described, with the inelastic member and the tensile elastic member (metal chain 41 and tension coil spring 42), which are connected by the stopper 43, connected in a series to the contact member 32.

[0071] Figures 8 and 9 show the installation procedure for attaching the cushioning member 24 and the reduced diameter portion 6 to the flange 23 of the cylindrical support column 2. First, the tension coil spring 42 is inserted sequentially from the base end 42a through the through portion 24a of the annularly formed cushioning member 24 (Figure 8(a)). Once the tension coil spring 42 has passed through the through portion 24a, it reaches the stopper 43. Since the opening diameter of the through portion 24a of the cushioning member 24 is the same as the internal diameter of the cylindrical support column 2, the stopper 43 can also be inserted through the through portion 24a (Figure 8(b)). By moving the cushioning member 24 beyond this stopper 43, the cushioning member 24 can reach the position of the metal chain 41 (the state in which the metal chain 41 is inserted through the through portion 24a).

[0072] In the above state, the diameter-reducing portion 6 is positioned below the cushioning member 24. However, as mentioned above, the opening diameter of the through portion 61 of the diameter-reducing portion 6 is formed to be smaller than the outer diameter of the stopper 43, resulting in a different mounting configuration than that of the cushioning member 24. Specifically, an open portion 62 is used, which is formed by partially opening the through portion 61 of the diameter-reducing portion 6. By inserting the metal chain 41 through this open portion 62, the metal chain 41 is inserted through the through portion 61 (Figures 8(c) and (d)).

[0073] As described above, the diameter-reducing member 6 is positioned below the cushioning member 24, the tension coil spring 42 is inserted into the cylindrical support column 2 (Figure 9(a)), and the two components 24 and 6 are fixed to the upper surface of the flange portion 23 of the cylindrical support column 2, thereby completing the installation of the two components 24 and 6 (Figure 9(b)). For fixing, screws (bolts or screws, etc.) 7 are used and screwed into pre-provided screw holes (female screw portions, etc.) 8 in the flange portion 23 to fasten them. As shown in the figure, fastening holes for inserting screws 7 are provided at predetermined positions on the cushioning member 24 and the diameter-reducing member 6, and by aligning the position of these fastening holes with the screw holes 8 in the flange portion 23, it becomes possible to fix them by fastening the screws 7.

[0074] Furthermore, when fastening with the screw 7, as shown in Figures 9(a) and (b), the contact member 32 can be displaced from above the flange portion 23 by bending the metal chain 41 in an appropriate direction while it is pulled up. In this state, the screw 7 can be fastened without the contact member 32 getting in the way.

[0075] <Usage> The batting practice stand according to the second embodiment is configured as described above, and therefore has a different usage pattern than the first embodiment. Figure 10 shows the batting practice stand in its initial state. Note that Figure 10 shows the same state as Figure 3. In the initial state, as shown in Figure 10, it is basically the same as in the case of the first embodiment (see Figure 3).

[0076] In other words, in the initial state, the tension coil spring 42 is already stretched, biasing the inelastic member such as the metal chain 41 downwards, and forcibly bringing the contact member 32 of the ball holding part 3 into contact with the flange part 23 of the cylindrical support column 2. In this state, the ball holding part 3 maintains a stable upright position, and by placing the ball on the holding surface part 33, the ball can be stopped at a predetermined height.

[0077] In the initial state described above, the stopper 43 connecting the metal chain 41 and the tension coil spring 42 is positioned sufficiently below the diameter-reducing member 6, and the metal chain 41, having passed through the through-hole 61 of the diameter-reducing member 6, can easily escape from the inside of the cylindrical support column 2 (the upper opening of the flange portion 23).

[0078] Therefore, when hitting the ball with a bat swing for batting practice, a force is generated that causes the ball holding part 3 to tilt, similar to the first embodiment. If the external force F3 in the tilting direction is large, as shown in Figure 11, the ball holding part 3 will tilt significantly, the contact member 32 will completely detach from the flange part 23, and the metal chain 41 will protrude significantly outward. At this time, the tension coil spring 42 is naturally biased downward, so the metal chain 41 will move against this bias. As the metal chain 41 moves, the stopper 43 will also rise by the same length. At this time, the stopper 43 can move freely as long as it does not come into contact with the diameter reduction member 6, but when it comes into contact with the diameter reduction member 6, the upward movement of the stopper 43 is restricted. In other words, the stopper 43 forcibly stops the outward movement of the metal chain 41 (functioning as a stopper in that sense), and at the same time, the extension of the tension coil spring 42 is also stopped.

[0079] While the stopper 43 is in contact with the diameter-reducing member 6, the stopper 43 will remain in contact with the diameter-reducing member 6 as long as the outward force on the metal chain 41 is not reduced. However, as the external force is reduced, the biasing force of the tension coil spring 42 will function, causing the stopper 43 to detach from the diameter-reducing member 6 and descend, and the metal chain 41 to be stored inside the cylindrical support column 2. The system will then be restored to its initial state.

[0080] In this way, the stopper 43's forced stopping effect on the movement of the metal chain 41 prevents the ball holding portion 3 from moving too far. Furthermore, when a tension coil spring 42 is used as the tensile elastic member, it also has the effect of preventing plastic deformation that exceeds the elastic limit of the spring. That is, if the external force F3 is large and the ball holding portion 3 moves a longer distance than expected, the tension coil spring 42 may stretch significantly as the metal chain 41 moves. If the degree of stretching exceeds the elastic limit, it may become impossible to restore the ball holding portion 3 to its original state. Therefore, by restricting the movement of the metal chain 41 with the stopper 43 so that the tension coil spring 42 does not stretch too much, it becomes possible to stretch it within the range of the spring's elastic limit.

[0081] <Variation> While embodiments of the present invention are as described above, these embodiments are merely examples of the present invention, and the present invention is not intended to be limited to these embodiments. Therefore, the elements shown in the above embodiments may be modified, or other elements may be added.

[0082] <First variation> As a modification, the configuration and installation state of the cushioning member 24 are changed. In the above embodiment, the cushioning member 24 was illustrated and explained as being laminated (fixed) to the upper surface of the flange portion 23 (or diameter reduction member 6) provided at the upper end of the cylindrical support 2 (second support 22). However, in the modification, instead of being laminated to the flange portion 23, it is configured to be positioned in a state where it can make contact. The cushioning member 24 is intended to mitigate impact and friction with the flange portion 23 (or diameter reduction member 6) of the cylindrical support 2 (second support 22) when the ball holding portion 3 is restored to its initial state by the biasing member 4, and therefore will wear out with long-term (or many-time) use. For this reason, it may be a consumable item that should be replaceable, and it is preferable to make it easier to replace than to laminate it to the upper surface of the flange portion 23 (or diameter reduction member 6). In this case, a modification is made in which it is attached to the contact portion 32 (which contacts the flange portion 23, etc.) provided at the lower end of the ball holding portion 3.

[0083] Specifically, these are annular plate-shaped member 9A as shown in Figures 12 and 13, or tire-shaped member 9B as shown in Figures 14 and 15. These members are made of synthetic rubber such as urethane rubber.

[0084] First, as shown in Figure 12, the annular member 9A is composed of an annular plate-shaped main body 90, but it is not a continuous annulus in the circumferential direction, and is configured with a cut section 91 at one location (see Figure 12(a)). By artificially expanding this cut section 91, the cut end faces 91a and 91b of the cut section 91 have an appropriate spacing C, and a roughly C-shaped member can be formed with a part of the annulus open (an opening 92 is formed) (see Figure 12(b)). Since the main body 90 is made of synthetic rubber or the like, the opening 92, which is artificially expanded to open a part of it, can be restored to an annular shape by releasing it from the expanded state, as the cut end faces 91a and 91b come into contact with each other due to elastic force. In addition, the main body 90 has through holes 93 at multiple locations (four locations in the figure) that penetrate in the thickness direction, while avoiding the cut section 91 (see Figure 12(c)). This through-hole 93 is used when attaching to the contact portion 32, which will be described later. Due to the elastic force of the main body portion 90, the diameter of the through-hole 93 can be slightly expanded when attached.

[0085] When the annular member 9A is used as a cushioning member, it should be positioned on the lower side of the contact member 32 (the side to which the biasing member 4 is connected), and installed in a state where one side surface of the annular member 9A (the annular plane of the main body 90) can come into contact with the lower surface (contact surface) of the contact member 32. As described above, since the biasing member 4 is connected to the lower surface of the contact member 32, it is not easy to attach it to the biasing means 4 in an annular state. While this may not be difficult during initial assembly, it is expected that it will not be easy to replace, as it will be necessary to remove the biasing means 4. Therefore, the annular member 9A, which is illustrated as a modified example of the cushioning member, is designed to eliminate the above-mentioned hassle.

[0086] Figure 13 shows how the annular member 9A is used. Note that Figure 13 is based on the second embodiment. As shown in the figure, when using the annular member 9A, first, the annular member 9A is placed at an appropriate location on the biasing member 4 to be installed (near the inelastic member (metal chain) 41), and the cut portion 91 is artificially expanded to create a partial opening 92 (see Figure 13(a)). Then, by inserting the opening 92 through the biasing member 4 (inelastic member (metal chain) 41), the biasing means 4 is placed inside the hollow interior of the annular member 9A (inside the ring) (see Figure 13(b)). After that, by releasing the opening 92 from the artificial expansion, the biasing member 4 can be placed inside the hollow interior of the annular member 9A (inside the ring) (see Figure 13(c)). In this state, the annular member 9A is placed between the flange portion 23 (a diameter reduction member 6 is provided in the figure) and the contact member 32. Therefore, the contact member 32 can contact the flange portion 23 with the annular member 9A interposed therebetween, and as long as the annular member 9A does not detach from the biasing means 4, it can function as a cushioning member in this state. If a relatively hard rubber material is used, the cut portion 91 will be less likely to open, thus suppressing detachment.

[0087] In this modified example, the ring member 9A is configured to be attached to the contact member 32 in order to sufficiently prevent it from detaching. For this purpose, engagement projections 34 are provided in advance on the lower surface of the contact member 32. These engagement projections 34 are arranged concentrically with the through holes 93 provided in the ring member 9A and at the same pitch in the circumferential direction. Therefore, by engaging the through holes 93 of the ring member 9A with all of the engagement projections 34 of the contact member 32, the ring member 9A can be attached to the lower surface of the contact member 32 (see Figure 13(d)). Note that the number of engagement projections 34 on the contact member 32 does not need to be the same as the number of through holes 93 of the ring member 9A, as long as the number of engagement projections 34 is less than the number of through holes 93 of the ring member 9A, the engagement projections 34 will be accommodated in one of the through holes 93. Furthermore, when the engagement projection 34 is made into a round rod shape, by making its outer diameter slightly larger than the inner diameter of the through hole 93, the elastic force of the annular member 9A (the restoring force of the through hole 93 which is expanded when engaged) can stabilize the mounted state.

[0088] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 14, the tire-shaped member 9B is generally a short cylindrical shape, and the inside of its cylindrical body 90B has a hollow through-hole 94, and has a notch 96 formed by cutting out the side wall 95 of this through-hole 94 (see Figures 14(a) and (b)). The notch 96 forms a space radially around the entire circumference near the center with respect to the thickness direction of the cylindrical body 90B, and this space has a shape and volume that can sufficiently surround the contact member 32 of the ball-holding part, as will be described later. Due to the formation of this notch (space) 96, the end faces 97 and 98 on both sides of the cylindrical body 90B become partially thin, and the cylindrical body 90B as a whole becomes tire-shaped. Since this tire-shaped member 9B is also made of synthetic rubber, the thin end faces 97 and 98 on both sides can be artificially deformed, and by deforming them in such a way that the inner diameter of the end faces 97 and 98 that constitute the through-hole 94 is expanded, the contact portion 32 can be inserted into the notch (space) 96 (see Figure 14(c)). The through-hole 94 is configured to be large enough for the main body portion (extended portion) 31 of the cylindrical support 3 to be loosely inserted, and smaller than the width (outer diameter) of the contact member 32, as will be described later.

[0089] The usage of the tire-shaped member 9B with the above configuration will now be explained. Figure 15 shows the usage of the tire-shaped member 9B. As shown in this figure, the tire-shaped member 9B can be moved down to the contact member 32 at the lower end by inserting the through portion 94 from the upper end (the tip on the side where the holding surface portion 33 is provided) of the main body portion (extended portion of the support column) 31 of the cylindrical support column 3 (see Figures 15(a) and (b)). At this time, both 31 and 9B are in a loosely fitted state, so a suitable amount of play is formed between them, and it is possible to deform the tire-shaped member 9B appropriately in the vicinity of the contact member 32. Therefore, after lowering the tire-shaped member 9B sufficiently and moving it in the vicinity of the contact member 32, the inner diameter can be expanded by deforming the tire-shaped member 9B (especially the end face portion 98 located on the lower side) and artificially elastically deforming the end face portion 98. This expansion allows the contact member 32 to penetrate the inside (notch 96) of the tire-shaped member 9B (see Figure 15(c)).

[0090] In this way, after the entire contact member 32 is inserted into the inside (notch 96) of the tire-shaped member 9B, the deformation of the end face portion 98 is released and restored by elastic force, allowing the tire-shaped member 9B to be attached while surrounding the contact member 32. At this time, the lower end face portion 98 is positioned on the lower side of the contact member 32 and is positioned between it and the upper surface of the flange portion 23 (in the figure, the diameter reduction member 6 is positioned) provided at the upper end of the cylindrical support column 2 (second support column 22), allowing the contact portion 32 to contact the flange portion 23 with this end face portion 98 interposed. Therefore, the lower end face portion 98 of the tire-shaped member 9B functions as a cushioning member.

[0091] Basically, the part that functions as a cushioning member is the lower end face 98 of the tire-shaped member 9B, and the part that wears down with use is also this one end face 98. Therefore, when one end face 98 is visually worn down, it can be inverted and reused. That is, by detaching the tire-shaped member 9B from the contact member 32, removing it from the upper end of the main body (extended part of the support column) 31 of the cylindrical support column 3, and then reattaching it after inverting it, the other end face 97 that is not worn down can be positioned lower.

[0092] <Second variation> A second modified example is shown in Figure 16. Figures 16(b) to (d) are cross-sectional views taken along the line XVI-XVI in Figure 16(a), showing the configuration in use. This modified example alters the through-holes 25 (25a, 25b) provided in the second support column 22 and the through-bolts 26 inserted through the through-holes 25.

[0093] As shown in Figure 16(a), since the through hole 25 penetrates the second support column 22, the wall surface of the cylindrical support column 22 is divided into two opposing locations, and is composed of two holes 25a and 25b. In the above embodiment, the head and nut of the hexagonal bolt were arranged on the outside of the second support column 22, so both holes 25a and 25b had the same diameter and were designed to allow only the shaft portion to be inserted. In this modified example, the hole is divided into a head-side hole 25a and a nut-side hole 25b, and the head-side hole 26a is made relatively large to accommodate the through bolt and the head 26a of 26. The through bolt 26 used is a hexagonal socket head bolt, but with a smaller cylindrical head 26a compared to a hexagonal bolt. In addition, an annular stopper 29 is fixed to the shaft portion 26b of the through bolt 26 at a position a few mm (approximately 3 to 5 screw pitches) from the tip toward the base end. The stopper 29 is provided with the same outer diameter as, or slightly smaller than, the head 26a of the hex socket head bolt, so that it can be inserted through the head side hole 25a and move inside the support column 22. The nut side hole 25b is configured to have a female thread that screws onto the shaft portion (male thread portion) 26b of the through bolt 26, so that the through bolt 26 can be screwed in. Note that since the nut side hole 25b only needs to be able to accommodate the tip of the shaft portion 26b of the through bolt 26, in addition to directly cutting the female thread into the nut side hole 25b, the nut may also be fixed to the inside of the wall surface.

[0094] According to the above configuration, as shown in Figures 16(b) to (d), the through bolt 26 is inserted sequentially into the head side hole 25a from the tip of the shaft portion 26a (see Figure 16(b)). Since the shaft portion 26a is naturally smaller in diameter than the head side hole 25a, it can pass through the head side hole 25a, and since the stopper 29 is the same diameter as or smaller than the head 26a, it can also pass through the head side hole 25a (see Figure 16(c)). Then, after the tip of the shaft portion 26b reaches the nut side hole 25b, the through bolt 26 can be fixed by screwing it into the female thread of the nut side hole 25b (see Figure 16(d)).

[0095] As shown in Figure 16(d), when the through bolt 26 is screwed into the female thread of the nut side hole 25b, the screwing stops when the stopper 29 comes into contact with the inner wall around the nut side hole 25b. As a result, the screwing stops without the tip of the through bolt 26 protruding outward from the nut side hole 25b. In this state, the head 26a of the through bolt 26 is housed in the head side hole 25a. The housed head 26a also stabilizes the position of the head 26a. When the through bolt 26 is fixed, the connecting fitting 42a provided at the lower end of the biasing means 4 is supported by the shaft portion 26b of the through bolt 26.

[0096] With the above configuration, after the through bolt 26 is installed, as shown in Figure 17, the head 26a does not protrude from the outer surface of the second support column 22, and as mentioned above, neither the tip of the shaft portion 26b nor the tip of the shaft portion 26b protrudes. Therefore, the second support column 22 can be inserted into the first support column 21 without considering the installation position of the through bolt 26.

[0097] As a result, for example, as shown in Figure 18, the second support column 22 can be inserted up to near the lower end of the first support column 21 (making the cylindrical support column 2 shorter). In this case, the distance H from the surface of the base 1 to the tip of the ball holding part 3 can be shortened, and the height of the tip of the ball holding part 3 can be lowered. This configuration is suitable for use, for example, when practicing hitting low balls or when children are practicing hitting.

[0098] <Third variation> A third modification involves a configuration in which the position of the flange (connecting flange) 20 provided at the lower end of the cylindrical support column 2 fixed to the base 1 is displaceable. By displacing the position of the connecting flange 20, the position of the cylindrical support column 2 moves, and the position of the tip of the ball-holding part 3, which extends upward, also moves, so that batting practice can be performed while appropriately moving the held ball. Here, Figure 19 illustrates the case of movement in a straight line, and Figure 20 illustrates the case of movement in an arc.

[0099] When the cylindrical support column 2 is to be movable in a straight line, as shown in Figure 19, a straight rail 15 is arranged on the flat portion 10 of the base 1, and a slider 16 that can slide along this rail 15 is attached, and the connecting flange 20 at the lower end of the cylindrical support column 2 is fastened and fixed to this slider 16. The slider 16 is provided with a stopper member 17, which allows the slider 16 to be fixed at an appropriate position after sliding along the rail 15.

[0100] When the base 1 is considered a pentagon resembling a home plate, the rail 15 extends from near the center towards both ends (parallel opposite sides), allowing the slider 16 to move freely between the ends (parallel opposite sides). Therefore, when the slider is stopped in the center of the rail 15, it is considered a ball in the middle; when stopped at the front end, it is considered an inside ball; and when stopped at the far end, it is considered an outside ball, making it possible to practice batting against balls thrown in different directions.

[0101] Furthermore, as shown in the second modified example above, by combining this with a configuration in which the through bolt 26 is housed in the second support column 22, the cylindrical support column 2 can be made shorter, and in addition to variations in the course, hitting practice against low-lying balls is also possible. As for the stopper member 17, although it will not be described in detail here, the stopper member 17 illustrated in the figure is a rotary friction mechanism. A rotary friction mechanism is a mechanism in which a pressing member is provided at the tip of a screw-in shaft, and the shaft is rotated by lever operation, causing the pressing member at the tip to press against the side of the rail 15 and fix it in place by frictional resistance. The lever operation is performed by rotating it by about 90 degrees, causing the pressing member to move slightly forward and backward. When stopping sliding, it is moved forward (screwed) to apply pressing force (frictional resistance force) by the pressing member, and when sliding (stopping release), it is moved slightly backward to eliminate the pressing force (frictional resistance force).

[0102] On the other hand, if the cylindrical support column 2 is to be movable in an arc shape, the turntable 18 can be installed on the flat portion 10 of the base 1, as shown in Figure 20. The turntable 18 consists of a disc-shaped table mounted on a support shaft 19 erected near the center of the base 1. A circular hole with approximately the same diameter as the support shaft 19 is provided in the center of the circular plate material, and this circular hole is supported by the support shaft, with the end faces of both being in sliding contact with each other. The fitting tolerance between the two is a loose fit, so that they are fitted loosely without causing large play, and the turntable 18 is configured to rotate around the support shaft 19. The lower surface of the turntable 18 is in contact with the flat portion 10 of the substrate 1. Since the turntable 18 itself is in sliding contact with the support shaft 19 and the flat portion 10, it cannot be easily rotated without manual rotation.

[0103] The connecting flange 20 at the lower end of the cylindrical support column 2 is fastened and fixed to the vicinity of the outer circumference of the turntable 18, which has the above configuration. By fixing the connecting flange 20 to the vicinity of the outer circumference, the cylindrical support column 2 can move in an arc as the turntable 18 rotates. When the base 1 is considered as a pentagon resembling a home plate, the trajectory of the arc movement of the cylindrical support column 2 can pass through both ends (parallel opposite sides) of the home plate, allowing the cylindrical support column 2 to be positioned on the front and rear end faces of the home plate (base 1). This makes it possible to practice batting against balls thrown in different courses, such as an inside ball when positioned on the front side and an outside ball when positioned on the rear side.

[0104] Furthermore, in the above configuration, a stopper member 17 is provided to stop the rotation of the turntable 18. In this case, the stopper member 17 is also the aforementioned rotary friction mechanism, and is configured to stop the rotation by pressing the side end face (outer circumference) of the turntable 18 against frictional resistance. In addition, since there is a distance between the point where the turntable 18 is supported by the support shaft 19 and the point where the connecting flange 20 is fastened and fixed, the turntable 18 may lift up with the connecting flange 20 as a pivot point due to the impact received during batting practice, a circular cover 19a to prevent lifting may be attached to the upper end of the support shaft 19.

[0105] <Fourth variation> A fourth variation involves adding other elements to the embodiments and variations described above. While maintaining the concept of the present invention, a wide range of elements can be added, but some representative examples are given below.

[0106] For example, as shown in Figure 21(a), the base 1 may be configured to have multiple V-shaped protrusions 11 projecting downward from the edge (periphery) of the flat portion 10, functioning as an anti-slip feature (especially for fixing on surfaces such as soil or grass). Alternatively, a circular hole 12 may be provided in a part of the flat portion 10 of the base 1, and a cylindrical member 13 may be fitted into this circular hole 12, thereby allowing the cylindrical member 13 to function as a butt-standing portion.

[0107] Furthermore, the flat surface 10 of the base 1 is provided to have the same shape and size as home plate, making it possible to practice hitting balls at a predetermined height on home plate. In addition, the base 1 is provided with a notch 14, which is a groove-shaped cutout with a width (slightly wider) about the same as the outer diameter of the first support column 21, and has an arc-shaped edge. By providing such a notch 14, when stacking and storing (transporting in a stored state) multiple batting practice stands of the same type, the base 1 can be stacked and the cylindrical support columns 2 can be assembled adjacent to each other by inserting the first support column 21 through the notch 14.

[0108] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 21(b), by drilling a series of elongated holes 28 in the cylindrical support column 2 (second support column 22) that are connected to a plurality of engagement holes (through holes) 25, the through bolt 26 that supports the base end 42a of the tension coil spring 42 may be configured to slide along the elongated holes 28. When such elongated holes 28 are connected, the support by the through bolt 26 can be completed at a position where no tensile force acts on the tension coil spring 42 (or the force acting is weak), and then the through bolt 26 can be moved to engage with any of the engagement holes 25 where an appropriate tensile force acts. In this case, the work of supporting the tension coil spring 42 becomes easier, and it also becomes easier to change the engagement holes 25. <Other variations>

[0109] In the embodiments and modifications described above, the cylindrical support columns 2 (first support column 21 and second support column 22) are shown as being configured in a straight line. This is because by erecting the first support column 21 vertically with respect to the planar portion 10 of the base portion 1, the axes of the cylindrical support column 2 and the main body portion (support column extension portion) 31 of the ball holding portion 3 continuous therewith are in the vertical direction, so that the holding surface portion 33 can be positioned upward.

[0110] Incidentally, the second support column 22, when connected to the first support column 21, forms a cylindrical support column 2 and is a member for vertically connecting the ball holding portion 3 at its upper end, as well as a member for housing the biasing means 4 (non-elastic members 40, 41 and tensile elastic member 42, etc.) inside. Therefore, the second support column 22 can be configured to distinguish between a lower region and an upper region.

[0111] Therefore, in this modified example, as shown in Figure 22, the second support column 22 is divided into multiple (broadly speaking, two) regions. Specifically, it is divided into an insertion region 22a to be inserted into the first support column 21 and a housing region 22b for housing the biasing means 4 (non-elastic members 40, 41 and tensile elastic member 42, etc.), and these regions 22a and 22b are formed along mutually different axes. The insertion region 22a and the housing region 22b are connected by a continuous region 22c. Since the insertion region 22a is the region to be inserted into the first support column 21, the first support column 21 is cylindrical, and the insertion region 22a is configured to be cylindrical or columnar. The outer diameter of the insertion region 22a is made smaller than the inner diameter of the first support column 21, so that it can be easily inserted. The housing area 22b is cylindrical in shape due to the need to accommodate the biasing means 4, and has a flange portion 23 at its upper end for receiving contact with the main body portion (support extension portion) 31 of the ball holding part.

[0112] In the above configuration, the axes of the insertion area 22a and the storage area 22b are configured to be parallel. When the first support column 21 erected on the base 1 is installed with its axis in the vertical direction, inserting the insertion area 22a into the first support column 21 causes the axis of the insertion area 22a to also become vertical. As a result, the axis of the main body portion (support column extension portion) 31 of the ball holding part, which is continuous with the cylindrical support column 2, becomes vertical, and the holding surface portion 33 at its tip is formed facing upward. Therefore, it becomes easy to hold the ball B in this holding surface portion 33.

[0113] Although the continuous region 22c is illustrated with its axis in the horizontal direction, the direction of its axis is not particularly limited as long as the insertion region 22a and the storage region 22b are connected while their axes are different from each other. Furthermore, the axis of the storage region 22b does not need to be parallel to the axis of the insertion region 22a; it is sufficient that the ball B can be mounted at the tip of the main body (extended support portion) 31 of the ball holding unit. For example, if the end face of the flange portion 23 is horizontal, the main body (extended support portion) 31 of the ball holding unit to be connected can be maintained in the vertical direction.

[0114] As this modified version has the configuration described above, as shown in Figure 23, when the insertion area 22a of the second support column 22 is inserted into the first support column 22a, this insertion area 22a becomes freely slidable in the axial direction and freely rotated in the circumferential direction within the first support column 21. Therefore, by inserting the insertion area 22a of the second support column 22 into the first support column 21 and tightening the wing nut (fixing screw) 20a, the above sliding and rotation can be stopped. Accordingly, the overall height of the second support column 22 can be adjusted by axial sliding, the horizontal position of the housing area 22b can be adjusted by rotation, and then the above adjusted states can be maintained by fixing them with the wing nut (fixing screw) 20a.

[0115] Here, by making the shape of the base 1 (at least the flat portion 10) the same as the shape of the home plate (surface), and by making the area of ​​the flat portion 10 the same as the area of ​​the home plate surface, the ball B can be held at an appropriate height above the home plate. Furthermore, by erecting the first support column 21 near the center of the flat portion 10 of the base 1, the axis of the storage area 22b, which has a different axis from the first support column 21, can be positioned at a location deviating from the vicinity of the center of the home plate. The center of the flat portion 10 on which the first support column 21 is erected can be defined as the intersection of the center line of the width dimension W and the center line of the depth dimension D in the pentagonal home plate-shaped flat portion 10. The vicinity of the center of the flat portion 10 means the vicinity of the above intersection. Therefore, erecting the first support column 21 near the center of the flat portion 10 of the base 1 means erecting it in such a state that the axis of the first support column 21 is approximately on the above intersection.

[0116] In this way, by erecting the first support column 21 near the center of the flat portion 10 of the home plate-shaped base 1, as shown in Figure 24, the axis of the housing area 22b of the second support column 22 can be positioned closer to the outer corner of the base 1 (home plate), allowing the ball B to be treated as an outside pitch ball. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 25, by rotating the second support column 22, the axis of the housing area 22b can be positioned closer to the inner corner of the home plate, allowing the ball B to be treated as an inside pitch ball. In order to easily adjust the position of the outside or inside pitch ball, it is preferable that the length of the continuous area 22c of the second support column 22 be half the width W of the base 1 (home plate).

[0117] Furthermore, as described above, by setting the ball B in an outside or inside position and raising or lowering the second support column 22 (sliding vertically), it is possible to adjust it to a high outside pitch, a middle outside pitch, a low outside pitch, etc., or to adjust it to a high inside pitch, a middle inside pitch, a low inside pitch, etc., thereby positioning the ball B in a position that simulates a pitch thrown to various courses.

[0118] Depending on the rotation and sliding conditions, the insertion area 22a of the second support column 22 can also be positioned in the center left and right of home plate, as shown in Figure 26. When installed in this position, the ball B is positioned in front of or behind home plate, so it can be used, for example, for practicing hitting a ball thrown to the middle course in front or behind.

[0119] Furthermore, the first support column 21 is fixed to the base 1 by a connecting flange 20. By providing multiple positions on the base 1 that allow connection with the connecting flange 20 of the first support column 21, and adjusting the connection position as appropriate, the position of the ball can be further changed. This makes it possible to practice batting as if the ball were thrown to the center of home plate even when using the second support column 22 with the above configuration. Naturally, by changing the second support column 22 to a linear shape as in the first embodiment, it is possible to return to batting practice in the center of home plate.

[0120] <Other variations> While possessing the components of other modified examples as described above, other elements can be added to this modified example. In this modified example, the second support column 22 is formed by an insertion region 22a to be inserted into the first support column 21, a housing region 22b for housing the biasing means 4, and a continuous region 22c that is continuous between the two, with the insertion region 22a and the housing region 22b being formed along mutually different axes. For example, as shown in Figure 27, the continuous region 22c can be configured such that the position Y in the height direction continuous with the housing region 22b is lower than the position X in the height direction continuous with the insertion region 22a. Since each region 22a, 22b, and 22c of the second support column 22 is composed of a continuously formed cylindrical (pipe-shaped) member, this pipe-shaped member is bent (or curved) to form a roughly S-shape.

[0121] In the above configuration, as shown in Figure 28, when the insertion area 22a is inserted into the first support column 21, the position Y of the lower end of the storage area 22c (the position continuous with the continuous area 22c) can be brought close to the flat portion 10 of the base 1. Therefore, the height of the ball holding portion 3 and its tip (holding surface portion) 33 installed on the upper part of the second support column 22 can also be lowered. Consequently, the ball placed on the holding surface portion 33 will be at a lower position.

[0122] With this configuration, as with other modifications, the insertion area 22a can freely slide axially and rotate circumferentially within the first support column 21. Therefore, by erecting the first support column 21 near the center of the flat portion 10 of the home plate-shaped base 1 and rotating the second support column 22 circumferentially, the axis of the receiving area 22b (resulting in the ball holding portion 3) can be moved to the outside or inside of the base 1 (home plate). In this way, by setting the axis of the ball holding portion 3 to the outside, the ball B can be treated as an outside pitch, and by setting it to the inside, it can be treated as an inside pitch. Furthermore, since the height of the ball B can be kept low, it can be used for batting practice against low pitches on outside or inside pitches. In addition, because the ball B is kept low, it can also be used by young children.

[0123] In the alternative embodiment shown above, the continuous region 22c does not need to be made of the same material (cylindrical member) as the other regions 22a and 22b, and may be made of other material in whole or in part. That is, the insertion region 22a is the region to be inserted into the first support column 21, so it is required to have a shape that allows such insertion, and the housing region 22b is required to have a hollow structure for housing the biasing means 4, but the continuous region 22c only needs to be able to connect both 22a and 22b. For example, as shown in Figure 29, a part of the continuous region 22c (upper and lower parts) may be made of a plate-like member. In particular, if the lower part is made of a plate-like member, the thickness in the vertical direction can be reduced, and it becomes possible to lower the second support column 22 to a state close to the flat part 10 of the base 1. If the second support column 22 is made of metal, the plate-like member can be fixed by welding or the like. In addition, to supplement the strength of the plate-like member, ribs or the like may be added to members thicker than a plate.

[0124] <Changes in shape and other forms> The various embodiments and modifications described above illustrate the shape of each component, and can be modified as appropriate. For example, in the first modification (see Figure 12), an example of modification is shown in which an annular member 9A is used instead of the cushioning member 24. However, for this type of annular member 9A, as shown in Figure 30, the inner hole 90a of the main body 90 may be shaped to engage with the inelastic members 40 and 41 of the biasing member 4 (see Figure 30(a)). In such a configuration, as explained in the second modification, when engagement with the engagement projection 34 of the contact member 32 is omitted, the installed position can be stabilized by engagement with the inelastic members 40 and 41. Of course, the inner hole 90a may be shaped as shown, and further engaged with the engagement projection 34 of the contact member 32 (a through hole 93 may be provided). Alternatively, a second cushioning member 9C of the same shape may be constructed and installed on the upper side of the stopper 43 provided on the biasing member 4 shown in the second embodiment (see Figure 30(b)). Naturally, as shown in the figure (Figure 30(a)), the inner hole 90a may be shaped to engage with the inelastic members 40 and 41 of the biasing member 4, or it may be fixed to the stopper 43. When the second cushioning member C is provided, when the ball holding part 3 detaches from the cylindrical support 2 during batting practice, the biasing means 4 extends, and the impact caused by the stopper 43 colliding with the diameter-reducing member 6 can be mitigated. By mitigating the impact, damage to both 6 and 43 can be prevented, and impact noise can also be suppressed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 1 base 2. Cylindrical support posts 3. Ball holding section 4. Biasing means 5 Resin component 6. Diameter reduction member 7. Screws (bolts or screws, etc.) 8. Screw holes (female threaded parts, etc.) 9A Circular member (cushioning member) 9B Tire-shaped member (cushioning member) 9C Stopper cushioning material 10 Flat part of the base 11 Protrusions 12 circular holes 13 Cylindrical member 14 Notch 15 rails 16 Sliders 17 Stopper member 18 Turntables 19 Support shaft 19a Circular cover 20. Flange at the lower end of the support column 20a Wing nut (fixing screw) 21 First support 22 Second support 22a Insertion area of ​​the second support column 22b Encompassing area of ​​the second support column 22c Continuous region of the second support 23 Flange section 24. Cushioning material 25 Through-hole 25a Head side hole (through hole) 25b Nut side hole (through hole) 26 Through bolts 26a Head of through bolt 26b Shaft portion of through bolt 27 nuts 28 long hole 29 Stopper 31. Main body of the ball-holding section (extended support section) 32 Contact Member 32a Male screw 32b Female thread 33 Holding surface part 33a Circular end face 34 Engagement protrusion 40 Connection part 41 Metal chain 42. Tension coil spring 42a Connecting fitting for tension coil spring (base end) 43 Stopper 61 Penetration portion of the diameter reduction member 62 Open section of the through-hole 90 Main body of the ring-shaped member 90a Inner hole of the main body of the annular member 91 Cut section 91a, 91b Cut end faces of the cut sections 92 Opening 93 Through hole 94 Penetration 95 Side wall of the penetration 96 Notch (space) 97,98 End face part B Ball D Depth dimension of the base F1, F2, F3 External force (hitting force) H Distance from the surface of the base to the tip of the ball-holding part W Base width dimension X Position in the height direction continuous with the insertion area Y: A position in the height direction that is continuous with the storage area.

Claims

1. A batting practice stand comprising a base, a cylindrical support column erected upward relative to the base, a ball-holding part detachably attached to the tip of the cylindrical support column, and a biasing means disposed inside the hollow of the cylindrical support column for biasing the ball-holding part downward, The upper end opening of the cylindrical support column comprises a flange-shaped portion and a diameter-reducing member attached to the upper surface of the flange portion and having a through portion smaller in diameter than the inner diameter of the cylindrical support column. The upper surface of the flange portion is provided with a cushioning member that is attached to the upper surface or arranged to contact the upper surface of the flange portion. The ball holding portion comprises a contact member that can indirectly contact the flange portion while closing the upper end opening of the flange portion with the cushioning member interposed therebetween, a support extension portion that is erected on the flange portion and continuous with the cylindrical support when the contact member contacts the flange portion with the cushioning member interposed therebetween, and a holding surface portion that holds the ball at the tip of the support extension portion. The biasing means comprises an inelastic member fixed to the contact member, a tensile elastic member provided continuously with the inelastic member, and a plate-shaped stopper mounted between the inelastic member and the tensile elastic member, having a flat portion with a diameter larger than the through portion of the diameter-reducing member, wherein the base end of the tensile elastic member is fixed at an appropriate position on the cylindrical support column. When the ball-holding portion moves against the biasing force of the biasing means and stretches the tensile elastic member, the stretching of the tensile elastic member is permitted within the range until the stopper contacts the diameter-reducing member. A batting practice stand characterized by the following features.

2. The inelastic member comprises a first connecting portion fixed to the contact member and having an elongated hole in the axial direction of the extension portion of the support column, and a metal chain attached to the first connecting portion. The stopper is provided with a second connecting portion on one surface and a third connecting portion on the other surface. One end of the metal chain is connected to the first connecting portion, and the other end is connected to the second connecting portion of the stopper. The batting practice stand according to claim 1, wherein the tensile elastic member is composed of a tensile coil spring, one end of the tensile coil spring is connected to the third connecting portion of the stopper, and the other end is fixed at an appropriate position on the cylindrical support column while generating a tensile force.

3. The batting practice stand according to claim 2, wherein the diameter-reducing member is formed in a substantially horseshoe shape having an open portion in which the through portion is partially open, and the metal chain is inserted through the open portion so that the metal chain is inserted inside the through portion.

4. The batting practice stand according to claim 3, wherein the cylindrical support column has a resin member attached so as to surround the tension coil spring in the region where the tension coil spring is arranged.

5. The batting practice stand according to claim 4, wherein the cylindrical support column has a plurality of engagement holes, a through bolt is fitted into one of the engagement holes, and the base end of the tension coil spring is fixed by hooking it onto the through bolt.

6. The batting practice stand according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the cushioning member is fixed to the upper surface of the flange portion.

7. The batting practice stand according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the cushioning member is attached to the contact member of the ball holding portion.

8. The batting practice stand according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the base comprises a flat portion having an appropriate area and a mountain-shaped projection that protrudes downward from the edge of the flat portion.

9. The batting practice stand according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the base comprises a flat portion of an appropriate area, a circular hole formed in a circular shape through a part of the flat portion, and a bat-standing portion composed of a cylindrical member detachably provided in the circular hole.

10. A batting practice stand according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the cylindrical support column is provided with a connecting flange at its base end for connection with the base, the base is provided with a flat surface of an appropriate area, and the cylindrical support column is erected on the base by fastening the connecting flange to the flat surface.

11. The batting practice stand according to claim 10, wherein the planar portion has a fastening area that enables fastening of the connecting flange, and the fastening area is set in multiple locations on the planar portion or on a movable member that is movable in a straight or arc shape and is provided on the upper part of the planar portion.

12. A batting practice stand comprising a base, a cylindrical support column erected upward relative to the base, a ball-holding part detachably attached to the tip of the cylindrical support column, and a biasing means disposed inside the hollow of the cylindrical support column for biasing the ball-holding part downward, The upper end opening of the cylindrical support column is equipped with a flange-shaped portion. The upper surface of the flange portion is provided with a cushioning member that is attached to the upper surface or arranged to contact the upper surface of the flange portion. The ball holding portion comprises a contact member that can indirectly contact the flange portion while closing the upper end opening of the flange portion with the cushioning member interposed therebetween, a support extension portion that is erected on the flange portion and continuous with the cylindrical support when the contact member contacts the flange portion with the cushioning member interposed therebetween, and a holding surface portion that holds the ball at the tip of the support extension portion. The biasing means comprises an inelastic member fixed to the contact member and a tensile elastic member provided continuously with the inelastic member, wherein the base end of the tensile elastic member is fixed to an appropriate position on the cylindrical support column. The cylindrical support column is provided with a connecting flange at its base end for connecting to the base, and the base is provided with a flat surface of an appropriate area, and the cylindrical support column is erected on the base by fastening the connecting flange to the flat surface. The planar portion has a fastening area that enables fastening of the connecting flange, and the fastening area is set in multiple locations on the planar portion, or on a movable member that is movable in a straight or arc shape and is provided on the upper part of the planar portion. A batting practice stand characterized by the following features.

13. The batting practice stand according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the cylindrical support column comprises a first support column fixed to the base, a second support column inserted inside the first support column and slidable in the axial direction, and a fixing member that stops the sliding of the first support column and the second support column relative to each other.

14. The second support column is provided so as to be rotatable in the circumferential direction while inserted into the first support column, and the fixing member stops the rotation of the second support column. The batting practice stand according to claim 13, wherein the second support column is divided into an insertion area to be inserted into the first support column and a housing area for housing the biasing means, the insertion area and the housing area are formed along different axes, and a continuous area is formed between the insertion area and the housing area, connecting the two.

15. The batting practice stand according to claim 14, wherein the base portion has a flat surface having the same shape and size as a home plate, the first support column is provided so as to be erected vertically near the center of the flat surface portion, and the insertion area and the housing area constituting the second support column are formed along mutually parallel axes.

16. The batting practice stand according to claim 15, wherein the lower end of the first support column is provided with a connecting flange for connection with the base, and the first support column is erected on the base by fastening the connecting flange to the flat surface.

17. The batting practice stand according to claim 14, wherein the continuous area is connected to the housing area at a lower position than the height position continuous with the insertion area.

18. The batting practice stand according to claim 17, wherein the base portion has a flat surface having the same shape and size as a home plate, the first support column is provided so as to be erected vertically near the center of the flat surface portion, and the insertion area and the housing area constituting the second support column are formed along mutually parallel axes.

19. The batting practice stand according to claim 18, wherein the lower end of the first support column is provided with a connecting flange for connection with the base, and the first support column is erected on the base by fastening the connecting flange to the flat surface.

20. A batting practice stand comprising a base, a cylindrical support column erected upward relative to the base, a ball-holding part detachably attached to the tip of the cylindrical support column, and a biasing means disposed inside the hollow of the cylindrical support column for biasing the ball-holding part downward, The upper end opening of the cylindrical support column is equipped with a flange-shaped portion. The upper surface of the flange portion is provided with a cushioning member that is attached to the upper surface or arranged to contact the upper surface of the flange portion. The ball holding portion comprises a contact member that can indirectly contact the flange portion while closing the upper end opening of the flange portion with the cushioning member interposed therebetween, a support extension portion that is erected on the flange portion and continuous with the cylindrical support when the contact member contacts the flange portion with the cushioning member interposed therebetween, and a holding surface portion that holds the ball at the tip of the support extension portion. The biasing means comprises an inelastic member fixed to the contact member and a tensile elastic member provided continuously with the inelastic member, wherein the base end of the tensile elastic member is fixed to an appropriate position on the cylindrical support column. The cylindrical support column comprises a first support column fixed to the base, a second support column inserted inside the first support column and slidable in the axial direction, and a fixing member that stops the sliding of the first support column and the second support column from sliding against each other. The second support column is provided so as to be rotatable in the circumferential direction while inserted into the first support column, and the fixing member stops the rotation of the second support column. The second support column is divided into an insertion area to be inserted into the first support column and a housing area for housing the biasing means, the insertion area and the housing area are formed along different axes, and a continuous area is formed between the insertion area and the housing area, connecting the two. A batting practice stand characterized by the following features.

21. The batting practice stand according to claim 20, wherein the base portion has a flat surface having the same shape and size as a home plate, the first support column is provided so as to be erected vertically near the center of the flat surface portion, and the insertion area and the housing area constituting the second support column are formed along mutually parallel axes.

22. The batting practice stand according to claim 21, wherein the lower end of the first support column is provided with a connecting flange for connection with the base, and the first support column is erected on the base by fastening the connecting flange to the flat surface.

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