Devices for launching and collecting balls

Abstract

Various embodiments of a ball machine are described herein that include a removable ball hopper mateable to a ball launcher. The ball hopper may include a fully collapsable handle and a flexible frame that may be opened with a wedge of the ball hopper. The mated ball hopper with the ball launcher opens the flexible frame of the ball hopper to release balls from an interior of the ball hopper into the ball launcher. The ball launcher includes an agitator to agitate the balls into the ball launcher for launching with different spin types, speeds, oscillation direction, etc.

Description

DEVICES FOR LAUNCHING AND COLLECTING BALLSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63 / 677,731, filed July 31, 2024, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0002] The contents of all patents, patent applications, and publications referenced herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety to provide additional details, technical specifications, and methodologies relevant to the present invention. Any materials referenced herein are intended to provide supplementary background, enhance the understanding of the disclosure, and support the technical claims made within this provisional patent application.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure pertains to the field of sports training equipment, specifically focusing on tennis and pickleball. This disclosure relates to ball machines used for training and practice purposes, in particular for combined collection and launching.BACKGROUND

[0004] Ball machines are mechanical devices used primarily by tennis players and coaches to practice various aspects of the game. Tennis ball machines are designed to simulate shots similar to those made by opponents during a match. They can deliver balls at various speeds, spins, trajectories, and frequencies. However, collection of balls after they have landed all over the court is often by a ball hopper that must be manually emptied into the hopper for the ball launching device.SUMMARY

[0005] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a ball collection and launching system, comprising: a removable ball hopper that collects and contains storage for a plurality of balls; and a ball launcher configured to launch the plurality of balls at a plurality of speeds, and in a plurality of trajectories, wherein the ball hopper is configured to mate with the ball launcher to release at least a portion of the plurality of balls into the ball launcher for launching.

[0006] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a ball collection and launching system, comprising: a removable ball hopper that is configured to move along a surface to collect and contain a plurality of balls; and a ball launcher comprising at least one motor and a channel to launch the plurality of balls at a plurality of speeds and in a plurality of trajectories, wherein the ball hopper is configured to mate with the ball launcher to release at least one ball from the plurality of balls into the ball launcher for launching.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The foregoing is a summary, and thus, necessarily limited in detail. The above- mentioned aspects, as well as other aspects, features, and advantages of the present technology are described below in connection with various embodiments, with reference made to the accompanying drawings.

[0008] FIG. 1 shows a perspective side view of an embodiment of a ball machine, including a removable ball hopper.

[0009] FIG. 2A shows a perspective top view of an embodiment of a ball hopper removably detachable from a main body.

[0010] FIG. 2B shows a perspective top view of an embodiment of a ball hopper removably detachable from a main body.

[0011] FIG. 3 shows an illustration of a side view of a release mechanism of a ball machine.

[0012] FIGS. 4A-4C show a perspective side view of a plurality of configurations of a handle relative to a ball machine.

[0013] FIG. 5 shows an illustration of a side view of an embodiment of a locking and release actuation mechanism.

[0014] FIG. 6 shows a perspective side view of an embodiment of the ball hopper collecting one or more balls off a surface.

[0015] FIGS. 7A-7B show a perspective side view of exploded views of various embodiments of motor assemblies for imparting spin on a ball.

[0016] FIG. 8A shows an illustration of an embodiment of a user interface of a ball machine.

[0017] FIG. 8B shows an illustration of an embodiment of a remote device of a ball machine.

[0018] FIG. 9 shows a perspective side view of an embodiment of a sensor system integrated into an embodiment of a ball machine.

[0019] FIG. 10 shows an illustration of an embodiment of a voice control input device in wireless communication with an embodiment of a ball machine.

[0020] FIG. 11 A shows a perspective back view of an embodiment of locking wheel levers.

[0021] FIG. 1 IB shows a perspective back view of an embodiment of a foot pedal activated stabilization bumper.

[0022] FIGS. 12A-12C show perspective side views of an embodiment of a ball machine including a removable hopper.

[0023] FIGS. 13A-13D show perspective side views of an embodiment of a ball machine including a removable hopper.

[0024] FIGS. 14A-14B show perspective side views of an embodiment of a ball machine including a removable hopper with a transforming handle.

[0025] FIG. 15 shows a perspective side view of an embodiment of a sensor system integrated into a ball machine.

[0026] FIG. 16 shows a perspective top view of an embodiment of a ball machine with a removable hopper that includes an access mechanism for direct access to the balls in the removable hopper.

[0027] FIG. 17A shows a perspective side view of an embodiment of a removable hopper with a removable handle collecting one or more balls.

[0028] FIG. 17B shows a perspective side view of an embodiment of a ball machine with the removable hopper of FIG. 17A integrated into the ball machine.

[0029] FIG. 17C shows a perspective side view of an embodiment of a ball machine with the removable hopper of FIG. 17A integrated into the ball machine and the removable handle from the removable hopper reattached to a launching portion of the ball machine.

[0030] FIGS. 18A-18C show perspective side views of an embodiment of a handle of a ball hopper that opens to provide a base for using a ball hopper without a launching portion of a ball machine.

[0031] FIG. 19 shows a perspective side view of an embodiment of a ball hopper with a handle that is near fully collapsed to the flexible frames of the cylindrical storage of the ball hopper.

[0032] FIGS. 20A-20D show a perspective side view of some embodiments of an autonomous collecting ball hopper mated to a ball launcher.

[0033] FIGS. 21 A-21B show a perspective side view and top view, respectively, of an embodiment of a ball hopper collecting balls near a barrier, the ball hopper including a guide / deflector to protect the flexible frames from the side of the barrier.

[0034] The illustrated embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the disclosure. The schematics are drawn to illustrate features and concepts and are not necessarily drawn to scale.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The foregoing is a summary, and thus, necessarily limited in detail. The above- mentioned aspects, as well as other aspects, features, and advantages of the present technology will now be described in connection with various embodiments. The inclusion of the following embodiments is not intended to limit the disclosure to these embodiments, but rather to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the claimed subject matter. Other embodiments may be utilized, and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. Aspects of the disclosure, as described and illustrated herein, can be arranged, combined, modified, and designed in a variety of different formulations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and form part of this disclosure.

[0036] Tennis and pickleball ball machines are invaluable for player development, but they often present significant operational challenges. The technical problems associated with conventional ball machines include cumbersome weight, laborious manual ball collection, and outdated control interfaces, which complicate transportation and setup. Conventional machines are inefficient, including manual gathering of balls scattered across the court, a process that is physically demanding and time-consuming. Moreover, the reliance on physical controls limits the machine’s flexibility, customizability, and intuitive use, making operations less user-friendly.

[0037] The ball machines described herein seek to solve these technical problems with technical solutions including providing a removable ball collection hopper. A detachable ball collection hopper may streamline the process of ball collection and storage for increased convenience and efficiency. The removable ball collection hopper reduces user physical strain during ball collection. Further, the removable ball collection hopper simplifies the collection process, enhancing overall efficiency and portability. Additionally, the removable ball collection hopper mates with the ball launching apparatus to seamlessly deliver balls from the collection device to the ball launching apparatus, expediting time to play and limiting time spent gathering balls. While the specification describes the “balls” as “tennis balls,” it is contemplated that the ball machines described herein, including the ball hoppersand launchers described may be utilized for other types of balls, e.g., baseballs, racquet balls, etc.

[0038] In some embodiments, the ball machines described herein incorporate voice-driven control technology, allowing users to adjust operational parameters such as ball speed, spin, modes, feed rate, and / or location through simple conversational voice commands. This advancement enriches the training experience by making interactions with the machine more seamless, dynamic, and intuitive, thereby streamlining usability.

[0039] Conventional ball collection hoppers generally require manual transfer from a collecting apparatus to the launching machine. In contrast, the ball collection hoppers described herein enable ball ingress for collection and direct mating with the launching system for ball transfer to the launching mechanism. Moreover, the bulk release mechanism (e.g., wedge mechanism) integrated with a flexible-frame hopper for automated or simplified ball transfer is a technical advancement over conventional systems. This feature resolves the challenge of difficult ball transfer and manual access, offering an improved approach over conventional solutions.

[0040] Further, conventional systems may include collapsible handles but do not disclose a handle that can be fully removed and reattached to the launcher, at least in some embodiments, for ergonomic handling. The multi-configuration handle enhances portability and usability.

[0041] Various embodiments described herein include a ball launcher having an asymmetrical agitation arm that interacts with the hopper to prevent clogs and ensure consistent ball feeding. While conventional devices incorporate jam detection and recovery mechanisms, conventional devices do not disclose an agitator arm that extends into the hopper to actively prevent clogs. This feature introduces an approach aimed at maintaining consistent ball feeding.

[0042] One or more of the systems described herein introduce several features including, for example, one or more of: a removable flexible-frame ball collection hopper, a collapsible / removable handle system, an integrated bulk release mechanism (e.g., wedge mechanism) for ball transfer, an agitator-equipped launcher, adjustable multi-motor launching mechanism, voice-driven controls, foot-activated stabilization mechanisms, and / or alternative hopper geometries. These features, when collectively or alternatively implemented, streamline ball collection, transfer, and launching while enhancing usability, operational effectiveness, and training realism.

[0043] As shown in FIGS. 1-9, in some embodiments, the ball machine 10 includes a main body 11, a removable ball hopper 12, a handle 13, a ball launcher 70 (the launching mechanism being shown in FIGS. 7 A and 7B), and, optionally, a sensor system (shown in FIGS. 9 and 15). As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2A-2B, in some embodiments, the main body 11 may at least partially house one or more components of the ball machine 10, including the ball launching system (see, e.g., FIGS. 7A and 7B) and control interfaces (see, e.g., FIGS. 8A and 8B). In some embodiments, the main body 11 may be designed to be robust yet portable, allowing for easy transportation and setup. In some embodiments, the main body 11 may include one or more wheels 41 for transporting the ball machine 10 from place to place by tiling the ball machine towards the one or more wheels 41 and rolling the ball machine 10.

[0044] In some embodiments, the main body 11 defines a hole 16 where a ball exits the ball launcher 70. As shown in FIG. 1, the ball hopper 12 may be mated to an interior top of the ball launcher 70 allowing gravity, and a wedged opening between adjacent flexible frames 20 (shown in FIG. 3) to release balls in the ball hopper 12 into the ball launcher 70. Optionally, as shown in FIG. 2B, the main body may further include an agitation arm 51 for causing a ball of a plurality of balls from the ball hopper 12 to drop into timed release mechanism 23. The agitation arm 51 may be sized and / or shaped to extend from the ball launcher 17 up into the ball hopper 12 to release one or more balls from the ball hopper 12. The agitation arm 51 may have an asymmetric shape (e.g., portion 51a may be offset from portion 51b or portion 51b may extend at an angle from portion 51a). In some embodiments, the agitation arm 51 may rotate to agitate one or more balls out of the ball hopper 12 and into the ball launcher. The agitation arm 51 may be coupled to the timed release mechanism 23 and thus rotate based on the timed release mechanism 23 rotation. In some embodiments, the agitation arm 51 may be angled, as described with respect to FIG. 8 A.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 2A, in some embodiments, the main body 11 may also include an ingress 18 for the handle 13 to collapse into, thus making the ball machine 10 more compact when stored or the handle is not needed. FIGS. 1 and 2A also show, in some embodiments, the handle 13 includes an actuation mechanism 14 that allows sliding of the handle 13 so that the handle 13 may collapse into a smaller form factor (i.e., take up less space) when not in use and extend to a one or more predetermined lengths (see, e.g., FIGS. 4A-4C) for users of different body types or for different uses.

[0046] In some embodiments, the removable ball hopper 12, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2B and 3, may include a cylindrical storage 20 defined by an array of flexible frames 90 forcollecting and storing tennis balls. In some embodiments, adjacent flexible frames 90 may bend and thereby separate, as shown by angle 19 of FIG. 3, which separates the flexible frames 90 under pressure when collecting a ball, transferring the ball into the hopper's interior 37. Said another way, a distance between adjacent flexible frames 90 increases, providing space for a ball to enter the cylindrical storage and / or ball to exit the cylindrical storage 20 and into the main body 11 of the ball launcher 70. For example, a bulk release mechanism 19 (e.g., wedge) coupled to the main body 11 (e.g., inside the main body, at least partially in the main body, or outside the main body) of the ball launcher 70 in the shape of angle 80 deflects one or more flexible frames 90 of the ball hopper 12 when downward pressure is applied when mating the ball hopper 12 with the ball launcher 70. The deflected flexible frames 90 results in an enlarged or increased space between adjacent flexible frames 90 where the flexible frames 90 interact with the bulk release mechanism 19. This increased space communicatively couples the balls in the ball hopper 12 to the ball launcher 70. In some embodiments, the bulk release mechanism 19 includes any suitable shapes including other polygons (e.g., squares), cones, etc. that are capable of spreading the adjacent flexible frames 90 apart to create an opening within the ball hopper 12. In some embodiments, a catching portion 81 of the bulk release mechanism 19 may prevent accidental removal of the ball hopper 12 from the bulk release mechanism 19. For example, angle 82 defines the catching portion of the bulk release mechanism 19 that provides resistance to removal but allows for conscious removal of the ball hopper 12 from the ball launcher 70. In some embodiments, the ball hopper 12 is mated with the ball launcher 70 by positioning at least a portion of the ball hopper 12 into a cavity or groove 53 defined by the ball launcher 70. In some embodiments, the removable ball hopper 12 may reduce the physical strain associated with manual ball collection. For example, as a user rolls the ball hopper 12 over a surface of the court (e.g., the ground) to gather balls, a downward force is applied on the balls to expand (i.e., separate) a space between adjacent flexible frames 90 to allow ball ingress into the interior 37 of the ball hopper 12. In contrast, when not rolling over balls, the flexible frames 90 are not bent (i.e., little to no downward force) and therefore retain the balls in the cylindrical storage 20.

[0047] As shown in FIGS. 4A-4C and FIG. 5, in some embodiments, the collapsable handle 13 may include a spring 22 (shown in FIG. 5) loaded actuation mechanism 14 (e.g., a pushbutton, slider, etc.) for moving the handle 13 between a plurality of predetermined positions and / or configuration states. For example, the handle 13 may have a fully collapsedconfiguration for storage (i.e., inner tube 13a of handle 13 is fully seated in outer tube 55), as shown in FIG. 4 A. For example, the handle 13 may have a partially extended configuration for transport (i.e., inner tube 13a of handle 13 is partially seated in outer tube 55), as shown in FIG. 4B. For example, the handle 13 may have a fully extended configuration for ball collection (i.e., inner tube 13a of handle 13 is fully extended from outer tube 55), as shown in FIG. 4C. Although three configurations are shown, one of skill in the art will appreciate that any number of configurations, for example intermediate configurations, may be possible. The button of the handle may be pressed to change between the three configurations and released to lock the handle in place. The ergonomic design of the handle 13 allows the machine to be wheeled like a suitcase during transport and operated like a push mower during ball collection. In some embodiments, the inner tube 13a may include a plurality of telescoping tubes (not shown) to prevent flexing when in a fully expanded state.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 5, in some embodiments, a handle 13 may include a collapsing mechanism. The actuation mechanism 14 of the collapsible handle 13 may include a push button or other suitable mechanism that actuates sliders 21 inwards, as shown by the arrows, to release the handle 13 side post 52 so the handle 13 can extend or collapse up and down to reposition the handle 13 in between the plurality of states, as shown in FIGS.4A-4C.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 6, an embodiment of a removable ball hopper 12 that, when pushed along a surface by grasping the handle 13, the cylindrical storage 20 defined by an array of flexible frames 90 opens when adjacent frames may further separate (i.e., a distance between adjacent frames increases), as shown by angle 19 under pressure when collecting a ball, transferring the ball 15 into the interior 70 of the ball hopper 12.

[0050] The ball launching systems 71, 72, shown in FIGS. 7A-7B, in some embodiments may include a timed release mechanism 23 (e.g., wheel for feeding the launcher) and launch wheels 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d driven by motors (not shown). FIG. 7A shows a configuration with vertically oriented drive wheels 24a, 24b, while FIG. 7B depicts a horizontally oriented drive wheels 24c, 24d with an additional small vertical wheel 26 for imparting spin to ball 15. The balls 15 are transferred from the interior of the ball hopper 12 into the ball launcher 17 when two or more of the arrays of flexible frames 90 are separated, thereby allowing the balls to drop down into the multiple holes 74 of the timed release mechanism 23, as shown in FIG. 7B. In some embodiments, the timed release mechanism 23 rotates and includes an agitation arm 75 that projects into the wedged open (e.g., mated) ball hopper 12 and rotates with the timed release mechanism 23 to agitate the balls (i.e., prevents clogs of the balls 15 as theyenter the holes 74 of the timed release mechanism 23). In some embodiments, the agitation arm 75 is asymmetrical (a first portion 51a is at an angle relative to a second portion 51b, as shown in FIG. 2B) and extends vertically to near the top of the hopper interior 37, about halfway, about two-thirds of the way, about three quarters way, etc. from the top of the hopper interior 37. As shown, in some embodiments, agitation arm 75 defines angle 76, which may include any range of angles between about 50 degrees and about 175 degrees, about 60 degrees and about 165 degrees, about 75 degrees and about 150 degrees, etc. As shown, in some embodiments, agitation arm 75 has arm lengths 77a, 77b, where arm length 77a is longer than arm length 77b, although in other embodiments, arm length 77a may be shorter than, or equal to, arm length 77b. Thus, when a hole 74 aligns with the opening above the channel 25, the ball 15 falls through onto the channel 25. The ball 15 travels down the channel 25 into the drive wheels 24 that propel a ball 15 through the hole 16 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) in the main body 11 and out the launching system. The ball launching systems 71, 72 can impart various speeds and spins (topspin, backspin) on the balls, controlled using a user interface or voice command (as discussed below with regard to FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 10). For example, when the top drive wheel 24a spins faster than the bottom drive wheel 24b, top spin is created on ball 15. When the bottom drive wheel 24b spins faster than the top drive wheel 24a, bottom spin is created on ball 15. Horizontal drive wheels 24c, 24d spin at the same speed with opposite directional rotation to increase or decrease the speed of the ball 15 as it is launched; however, vertical drive wheel 26 imparts a top or bottom spin based on the direction of the rotation (e.g., clockwise rotation results in backspin and counterclockwise rotation results in topspin).

[0051] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 11 A-l IB, there is a mechanism that ensures the ball machine 10 stays in place on the ground while launching balls 15. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11 A, these mechanisms may include the addition of a locking lever 39 (e.g., may be user activated, for example foot activated) on each wheel 41 that rotates to provide friction to wheel 41 to prevent movement of the device. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1 IB, these mechanisms may include an integrated stabilization bumper 40 (e.g., may be user activated, for example foot activated) that rotates and to provide a larger surface area or edge to create greater friction forces between the ball machine 10 and surface upon which the ball machine 10 sits.

[0052] As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, in some embodiments, a user interface 27 on the ball machine (shown in FIG. 8A) and a remote interface 34 (shown in FIG. 8B) may include oneor more input elements (e.g., buttons, dials, switches, etc.) for controlling an operation of the ball machine. The user interface 27 may include a power input element 28, play / pause input element 29, feed rate input element 30, speed input element 31, spin input element 32, and / or an oscillation input element 33. These controls enable users to customize their training sessions with different ball feed speeds as adjusted by the feed rate input element 30 (by increasing or decreasing the timed release mechanism 23 rotation speed); ball launching speed as adjusted by the speed input element 31 (by increasing or decreasing both the drive wheel 24a and drive wheel 24b, or drive wheel 24c and drive wheel 24d speeds at the same rate); ball launch spin type as adjusted by the spin input element 32 (by increasing or decreasing the top drive wheel 24a or bottom drive wheel 24b to make one drive wheel faster than the other (e.g., the ball launching system of FIG. 7A) or the increasing or decreasing rotation speed and direction of drive wheel 26 (e.g., the ball launching system of FIG. 7B)); and / or changing a left-right angle trajectory of the channel 25 as adjusted by the oscillation input element 33. The remote interface 34 may include fewer input elements than the user interface 27 as shown in FIGS. 8 A and 8B; however, in some embodiments, the same number (as the user interface 27) or more input elements may be provided to the remote interface 34. In some embodiments, the power input element 28 activates the machine. In some embodiments, the play / pause input element 29 starts the rotation of the timed release mechanism 23. In some embodiments, the input elements may include a pitch angle input (not shown) that adjusts the up-down pitch angle trajectory of channel 25. In some embodiments, left-right angle may be between about 0 degrees and plus or minus about 50 degrees, about 5 degrees and plus or minus about 40 degrees, about 10 degrees and plus or minus about 35 degrees, etc. In some embodiments up-down pitch angle may be between about 0 degrees and about 70 degrees, about 5 degrees and about 60 degrees, about 10 degrees and about 55 degrees, etc.

[0053] As shown in FIGS. 9-10, an embodiment of a ball machine 10 may incorporate voice- driven control technology. The sensor assembly 35, as shown in FIGS. 9-10, may include a processor 79 and one or more sensors 36 that can provide or determine a view of the court. The sensor assembly 35 can sense or receive voice commands captured by a microphone 38 (e.g., wearable by a user or otherwise in proximity to a user). In some embodiments, the sensor assembly 35 is a separate part from the main body 11 or may be integrated with the main body 11. The processor 79 may determine or adjust one or more settings such as ball speed, spin, feed rate, and / or oscillation, based on the received voice command and withoutmanual input. The sensor assembly 35 may enhance the training experience by making the machine more responsive and user-friendly.

[0054] For example, a microphone 38 can receive a command such as, "I want to practice my backhand," and the processor 79 may cause the launch system to adjust to deliver balls to the user's backhand side, based on the player's real-time location on the court. Additionally, more complex programs can be created through voice commands. For instance, saying, “give me a cardio workout" prompts the machine to vary speed, spin, and shot frequency to maximize movement and maintain a particular heart rate corresponding to “cardio workout(s)” simulating the demands of an extended rally.This advanced control system can intelligently adjust operational variables in real-time, providing a more dynamic and customized practice experience. Unlike conventional machines that rely on pre-set programs or random modes, the ball machines described herein allow for intricate, non-repetitive training regimens tailored to the user's specific needs and preferences.

[0055] FIGS. 12A-12C show an embodiment of a ball machine 100 that includes a removable ball hopper 112 held on the bottom of the main body 111 when in transport mode, as shown in FIG.12A. FIG.12B shows the ball machine 100 may be rested on its back for play mode. FIG.12C illustrates the removable ball hopper 112 rolling into the main body 111 with a closable hatch 120 that encloses at least a portion of the outer flexible frame 90 portion of the ball hopper 112 where it is secured for play or launch mode.

[0056] As shown in FIGS.13A-13C, in some embodiments, a removable ball hopper 212 may include a basket (or polygonal shaped array of flexible frames 290) for collecting and storing (e.g., containing) tennis balls. Adjacent flexible frames 290 may separate (a distance between adjacent flexible frames 290 increases) under pressure when collecting a ball 15, thereby transferring the ball 15 into the hopper's interior 237. For example, the main body 211 may include a polygonal shaped “wedge” to splay the flexible frames 290 for one or more balls to be released from the ball hopper 212 into the main body 211. When mated to the ball launcher 270, the ball hopper 212 is attached and integrated into the top of the main body 211 of the ball launcher 270. In some embodiments, the ball hopper 212 includes a handle 213 to move the ball hopper 212 and mate the ball hopper 212 to the ball launcher 270.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 13D, in some embodiments, the ball hopper may include, in addition to (on the exterior of the flexible frames 290) or in place of flexible frames 290, a rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible shell 291 that is capable of collecting and containing the balls 15.In some embodiments, the flexible frames 290 may be on the bottom 294 of the shell 291 to interface with the bulk release mechanism 19. In some embodiments, the ball hopper 212 with the shell 291 may include a bulk release mating mechanism (not shown) such as a spring-loaded trap door (not shown) that opens when interfaced with the bulk release mechanism 19 to release balls when aligned with the ball launcher 270. In some embodiments, the bulk release mating mechanism may include any suitable mechanism that provide communicable access to the interior (not shown) of the ball hopper 212 when interfaced with the bulk release mechanism 19. In some embodiments, the bulk release mating mechanisms may include a spring-loaded trap door, a sliding panel, a mechanical aperture (e.g., iris opening) with concentrically overlapping curved plates, etc. that may be actuated manually or mechanically (e.g., electromechanically) to release balls 15 in the ball hopper 212 to the ball launcher 270.

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 14A-14B, in some embodiments, a collapsible handle 42 is capable of folding to the back of the main body 11 of the ball machine 10. For example, the folding handle 42 may include an actuation mechanism 43 (e.g., a push-button, slider, etc.) for moving the handle between a plurality of configurations about a rotating joint 85 (e.g., ball joint, bearing, rotary bearing, bushing, pivot pin, universal joint, hinge, swivel joint, etc.). Further, the handle 42 may have a fully rotated configuration for storage, as shown in FIG. 14B; a partially extended configuration for transport, as shown in FIG. 14A; and a fully extended configuration for ball collection, as shown in FIG. 4C. Although three configurations are shown, one of skill in the art will appreciate that any number of configurations, for example intermediate configurations, may be possible. The handle may be released when depressed to change between the three configurations. The ergonomic design of the handle 42 allows the machine to be wheeled like a suitcase during transport and operated like a push mower during ball collection

[0059] As shown in FIG. 15, in some embodiments, sensor assembly 44 may be embedded into the main body 11. In some embodiments, a single sensor assembly 44 is included on the main body 11. In some embodiments, a plurality of sensor assemblies 44 may be included on the main body 11. The sensor assembly 44 may include a processor 79 and one or more sensors that can measure one or more court parameters and provide the measurements to the processor 79 so that the processor 79 can determine or render a view of the court. The sensor assemblies 44 may also sense or receive voice commands captured by a microphone 38 (e.g., wearable by a user or otherwise in proximity to a user). The processor 79 may determine oradjust one or more settings such as ball speed, spin, feed rate, and / or oscillation, based on the received voice command and, at least in some embodiments, without manual input. The sensor assembly 44 may enhance the training experience by making the machine 10 more responsive and user-friendly.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 16, in some embodiments, a separate secondary release mechanism 61 (e.g., wedge opener) may be introduced to adjacent flexible frames 90 of the removable ball hopper 12 to hold open and allow access to balls 15 through an upper portion of the ball hopper 12. In some embodiments, the secondary release mechanism 61 includes a polygonal shape that provides a large enough opening for a hand to reach in and grab a ball 15 from the ball hopper 12. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 16, the super elliptical wedge includes a rounded rectangular shape made of rigid materials that prevent the flexible frames 90 from closing when placed between the longitudinal edges 160 of the flexible frames 90. In some embodiments, the secondary release mechanism 61 includes any suitable shape that may prevent closing of adjacent flexible frames 90 and allow access by the hand of a user to remove balls 15 in the ball hopper 12. For example, secondary release mechanism 61 may be a polygonal (e.g., square, rectangular, hexagonal, etc.) shape, circular shape, or elliptical shape that may be introduced to the adjacent flexible frames 90 to separate them and then be placed between the adjacent flexible frames 90 to hole them open at the widest point of the secondary release mechanism 61.

[0061] FIGS. 17A-17C show perspective side views of some embodiments of a removable ball hopper 312 and ball launcher 370. The removable ball hopper 312 includes a removable handle 313 that may be detached from the ball hopper 312 once the ball hopper 312 is mated with the ball launcher 370. In some embodiments, the main body 311 of the ball launcher 370 includes a handle interface 170 utilized to reattach a detached handle 313 from the ball hopper 312 to the ball launcher 370. In some embodiments, once reattached to the ball launcher 370, the ball hopper 312 may be locked in place (i.e., prevented from removal from the ball launcher 370).

[0062] FIGS. 18A-18C show perspective side views of some embodiments of a removable ball hopper 412 with a handle 81 that transforms into a stand when the ball hopper 412 is inverted. In some embodiments, the handle 81 includes two handle portions 82a, 82b. In some embodiments, the handle portions 82a, 82b may initially be in a closed state, as shown in FIG. 18 A. In some embodiments, the handle portions 82a, 82b may be in an open state, as shown in FIG. 18B. In the open state, the ball hopper 412 may be inverted to allowergonomic access to balls in the ball hopper 412 by a player. In some embodiments, in the open state of FIG. 18B, the handle portions 82a, 82b act as a base to support the ball hopper 412 with balls 15. The ball hopper 412 being opened by secondary release mechanism 61, when inverted, allows for access to the balls 15 in a more ergonomic position for removal without bending over to reach toward the ground. In some embodiments, one or more of the handle portions 82a, 82b may rotate around joint 84 to open into the open state shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 19, a perspective side view, in some embodiments, of a fully collapsed handle 513 of a removable ball hopper 512 is shown. The handle 513 collapses to near or about the top longitudinal edge 160 (shown in FIG. 16) of the flexible frames 590.

[0064] FIGS. 20A-20D show a perspective side view, in some embodiments, of a ball hopper 712 that may autonomously collect balls 15 and dock with a ball launcher 711 to release the collected balls 15 into the ball launcher 711 for launching. As shown in FIG. 20B, the automated ball hopper 712 may notify the user when collection of balls 15 is finished and the user may lift the ball hopper 712 onto the ball launcher 711. For example, an optical or audible notification may be provided, or communication may be sent to a user device to notify the user of the collection completion. In some embodiments, the ball hopper 712 may include a sensor to identify balls 15 in the environment to determine whether all the balls 15 have been collected off the ground. In some embodiments, the ball hopper 712 may include an optical sensor within the ball hopper 712 to determine how many balls 15 have been collected and / or have met a predefined number or the ball hopper 712 is full.

[0065] As shown in FIGS. 20C and 20D, in some embodiments, the automated ball hopper 712 collects the balls 15 and mates with ball launcher 711 from the side. In such an embodiment, the ball hopper 712 releases balls 15 into the ball launcher 711 with a mated feeding mechanism. For example, a ramp (not shown), when the ball hopper 712 is mated to the ball launcher 711, may direct any balls 15 in the ball hopper 712 into the ball launcher 711. In some embodiments, the mated feeding mechanism may include a passive or active feeding mechanism. In some embodiments, the passive feeding mechanism is like the ramp that allows gravity to feed the balls toward the ball launcher 711, and the active feeding mechanism that drives the balls 15 from the ball hopper 712 to the ball launcher 711. For example, an active feeding mechanism may be similar to the timed-release mechanism 23 described above or a conveyor type mechanism that drives the balls 15 into the ball launcher 711.

[0066] FIGS. 21 A and 21B show a perspective side view and top view, respectively, of an embodiment of a ball hopper 812 for collecting balls 15 near a barrier object 830, the ball hopper 812 including a guide / deflector 831 to prevent and protect from interference with the flexible frames 290 from the side of the barrier object 830. The guide / deflector 831 may also help to direct the balls 15 away from the barrier object 830 toward the flexible frames 290. In some embodiments, the barrier object 830 may include a wall, a chain link fence, fence, other vertical barrier, etc.

[0067] In some embodiments, the guide / deflector 831 is fixed to the outer edge of the ball hopper 812. In some embodiments, the guide / deflector 831 is angled inward toward the collecting flexible frames 290 and deflects balls toward the center of the flexible frames 290. In some embodiments, the guide / deflector 831 is on both sides of the cylindrical ball hopper 812 and provides smooth, uninterrupted motion along vertical barriers with slight protrusions (e.g., a chain link fence). In some embodiments, the guide / deflector 831 may be removable and / or positionable on one or both sides of the rolling cylinder of the ball hopper 812. EXAMPLES

[0068] Example 1. A ball collection and launching system, comprising: a removable ball hopper that collects and contains storage for a plurality of balls; and a ball launcher configured to launch the plurality of balls at a plurality of speeds and in a plurality of trajectories, wherein the ball hopper is configured to mate with the ball launcher to release at least a portion of the plurality of balls into the ball launcher for launching.

[0069] Example 2. The system of example I, wherein the ball hopper comprises a storage defined by a plurality of flexible frames, wherein one or more of the plurality of flexible frames is configured to bend to collect the plurality of balls on a surface by rolling over one or more of the plurality of balls, wherein, when the one or more of the plurality of flexible frames is not bent, the plurality of flexible frames contains the balls within the storage.

[0070] Example 3. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 2, wherein the storage includes a cylindrical storage that is configured to roll on the surface to collect the balls.

[0071] Example 4. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 3, wherein the ball hopper comprises a handle that is configured to at least partially extend and collapse to the cylindrical storage, and mate to the ball launcher.

[0072] Example 5. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 4, wherein the handle is configured to fully collapse to at least one of the plurality of flexible frames of the ball hopper.

[0073] Example 6. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 1, further comprising a removable handle.

[0074] Example 7. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 6, wherein the ball hopper is locked in place on the ball launcher when the handle is mated with the ball launcher.

[0075] Example 8. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 3, wherein: the ball launcher comprises a coupling that mates with the cylindrical storage to attach the ball hopper to the ball launcher, and the coupling prevents accidental removal of the ball hopper from the ball launcher by bending at least one of the plurality of flexible frames.

[0076] Example 9. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 2, wherein, when the one or more of the plurality of flexible frames is bent, an opening is provided to communicatively couple the plurality of balls in the ball hopper with an agitator of the ball launcher.

[0077] Example 10. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 9, wherein the agitator is configured to direct a ball of the plurality of balls to a channel or at least one motor of the ball launcher to launch the ball.

[0078] Example 11. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 1, wherein an angle of a channel of the ball launcher is adjustable to provide at least one launching angle of the plurality of trajectories of the plurality of balls.

[0079] Example 12. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 1, wherein the ball launcher comprises at least two motors to provide at least one launching angle of the plurality of trajectories, a speed, and a spin type.

[0080] Example 13. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 2, wherein the ball launcher further comprises a wedge to hold open the one or more of the plurality of flexible frames of the ball hopper allowing access through an upper portion of the ball hopper to the balls in the storage.

[0081] Example 14. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 1, wherein the ball hopper includes a handle that transforms to create a base for contacting a surface when the ball hopper is inverted.

[0082] Example 15. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 1, wherein the ball hopper comprises a container that includes a rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible shell.

[0083] Example 16. A ball collection and launching system, comprising: a removable ball hopper that is configured to move along a surface to collect and contain a plurality of balls; and a ball launcher comprising at least one motor and a channel to launch the plurality of balls at a plurality of speeds and in a plurality of trajectories, wherein the ball hopper is configured to mate with the ball launcher to release at least one ball from the plurality of balls into the ball launcher for launching.

[0084] Example 17. The system of example 16, wherein the ball hopper comprises a storage defined by a plurality of flexible frames, wherein one or more of the plurality of flexible frames is configured to bend to collect the plurality of balls on a surface by rolling over one or more of the plurality of balls, wherein when the one or more of the plurality of flexible frames is not bent, the plurality of flexible frames contains the balls within the storage.

[0085] Example 18. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 17, wherein the storage includes a cylindrical storage.

[0086] Example 19. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 18, wherein the ball hopper comprises a handle that is configured to extend and collapse to the cylindrical storage, and mate to the ball launcher.

[0087] Example 20. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 17, wherein: the ball launcher comprises a coupling that mates with the cylindrical storage to attach the ball hopper to the ball launcher, and the coupling prevents accidental removal of the ball hopper from the ball launcher by bending at least one of the plurality of flexible frames.

[0088] Example 21. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 17, wherein when the one or more of the plurality of flexible frames is bent, an opening is provided to communicatively couple the plurality of balls in the ball hopper with an agitator of the ball launcher.

[0089] Example 22. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 21, wherein the agitator is configured to direct a ball of the plurality of balls to the at least one motor to launch the ball.

[0090] Example 23. The system of any one of the preceding examples, but particularly example 15, wherein an angle of a channel of the ball launcher is adjustable to provide at least one launching angle of the plurality of trajectories of the plurality of balls.

[0091] \The systems and methods of the preferred embodiment and variations thereof can be embodied and / or implemented at least in part as a machine configured to receive a computer- readable medium storing computer-readable instructions. The instructions are preferably executed by computer-executable components preferably integrated with the system and one or more portions of the processor on the ball machine, ball launcher, and / or computing device. The computer-readable medium can be stored on any suitable computer-readable media such as RAMs, ROMs, flash memory, EEPROMs, optical devices (e.g., CD or DVD), hard drives, floppy drives, or any suitable device. The computer-executable component is preferably a general or application-specific processor, but any suitable dedicated hardware or hardware / firmware combination can alternatively or additionally execute the instructions.

[0092] References in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an illustrative embodiment,” “some embodiments,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may or may not necessarily include that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

[0093] As used in the description and claims, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” include both singular and plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “configuration” may include, and is contemplated to include, a plurality of configurations. At times, the claims and disclosure may include terms such as “a plurality,” “one or more,” or “at least one;” however, the absence of such terms is not intended to mean, and should not be interpreted to mean, that a plurality is not conceived.

[0094] The term “about” or “approximately,” when used before a numerical designation or range (e.g., to define a length or pressure), indicates approximations which may vary by ( + ) or ( - ) 5%, 1% or 0.1%. All numerical ranges provided herein are inclusive of the stated start and end numbers. The term “substantially” indicates mostly (i.e., greater than 50%) or essentially all of a device, substance, or composition.

[0095] As used herein, the term “comprising” or “comprises” is intended to mean that the devices, systems, and methods include the recited elements, and may additionally include any other elements. “Consisting essentially of’ shall mean that the devices, systems, and methods include the recited elements and exclude other elements of essential significance to the combination for the stated purpose. Thus, a system or method consisting essentially of the elements as defined herein would not exclude other materials, features, or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed disclosure. “Consisting of’ shall mean that the devices, systems, and methods include the recited elements and exclude anything more than a trivial or inconsequential element or step. Embodiments defined by each of these transitional terms are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0096] The examples and illustrations included herein show, by way of illustration and not of limitation, specific embodiments in which the subject matter may be practiced. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived therefrom, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Such embodiments of the inventive subject matter may be referred to herein individually or collectively by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any single invention or inventive concept, if more than one is in fact disclosed. Thus, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description.

Claims

CLAIMSWHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A ball collection and launching system, comprising: a removable ball hopper that collects and contains storage for a plurality of balls; and a ball launcher configured to launch the plurality of balls at a plurality of speeds and in a plurality of trajectories, wherein the ball hopper is configured to mate with the ball launcher to release at least a portion of the plurality of balls into the ball launcher for launching.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the ball hopper comprises a storage defined by a plurality of flexible frames, wherein one or more of the plurality of flexible frames is configured to bend to collect the plurality of balls on a surface by rolling over one or more of the plurality of balls, wherein, when the one or more of the plurality of flexible frames is not bent, the plurality of flexible frames contains the balls within the storage.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the storage includes a cylindrical storage that is configured to roll on the surface to collect the balls.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the ball hopper comprises a handle that is configured to at least partially extend and collapse to the cylindrical storage, and mate to the ball launcher.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the handle is configured to fully collapse to at least one of the plurality of flexible frames of the ball hopper.

6. The system of claim 1, further comprising a removable handle.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the ball hopper is locked in place on the ball launcher when the handle is mated with the ball launcher.

8. The system of claim 3, wherein: the ball launcher comprises a coupling that mates with the cylindrical storage to attach the ball hopper to the ball launcher, and the coupling prevents accidental removal of the ball hopper from the ball launcher by bending at least one of the plurality of flexible frames.

9. The system of claim 2, wherein, when the one or more of the plurality of flexible frames is bent, an opening is provided to communicatively couple the plurality of balls in the ball hopper with an agitator of the ball launcher.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the agitator is configured to direct a ball of the plurality of balls to a channel or at least one motor of the ball launcher to launch the ball.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein an angle of a channel of the ball launcher is adjustable to provide at least one launching angle of the plurality of trajectories of the plurality of balls.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the ball launcher comprises at least two motors to provide at least one launching angle of the plurality of trajectories, a speed, and a spin type.

13. The system of claim 2, wherein the ball launcher further comprises a wedge to hold open the one or more of the plurality of flexible frames of the ball hopper allowing access through an upper portion of the ball hopper to the balls in the storage.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the ball hopper includes a handle that transforms to create a base for contacting a surface when the ball hopper is inverted.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the ball hopper comprises a container that includes a rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible shell.

16. A ball collection and launching system, comprising: a removable ball hopper that is configured to move along a surface to collect and contain a plurality of balls; and a ball launcher comprising at least one motor and a channel to launch the plurality of balls at a plurality of speeds and in a plurality of trajectories, wherein the ball hopper is configured to mate with the ball launcher to release at least one ball from the plurality of balls into the ball launcher for launching.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the ball hopper comprises a storage defined by a plurality of flexible frames, wherein one or more of the plurality of flexible frames is configured to bend to collect the plurality of balls on a surface by rolling over one or more of the plurality of balls, wherein when the one or more of the plurality of flexible frames is not bent, the plurality of flexible frames contains the balls within the storage.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the storage includes a cylindrical storage.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the ball hopper comprises a handle that is configured to extend and collapse to the cylindrical storage, and mate to the ball launcher.

20. The system of claim 18, wherein:the ball launcher comprises a coupling that mates with the cylindrical storage to attach the ball hopper to the ball launcher, and the coupling prevents accidental removal of the ball hopper from the ball launcher by bending at least one of the plurality of flexible frames.

21. The system of claim 17, wherein when the one or more of the plurality of flexible frames is bent, an opening is provided to communicatively couple the plurality of balls in the ball hopper with an agitator of the ball launcher.

22. The system of claim 21, wherein the agitator is configured to direct a ball of the plurality of balls to the at least one motor to launch the ball.

23. The system of claim 16, wherein an angle of a channel of the ball launcher is adjustable to provide at least one launching angle of the plurality of trajectories of the plurality of balls.

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