Flexible duct for tennis ball launching machines

Abstract

The present invention relates to a flexible duct of particular construction, which directs balls inside the machine from the outlet of the ball basket to the launching barrel, permitting free movement at any angle or in any position necessary, ensuring a continuous and efficient flow. The invention comprises a set of annular segments (2) connected adjacently by fastening means (6), having a connection at one end to a floating flange (4), in turn fitted inside a fixed flange (3), and a connection at the other end to an annular end piece (5), connected by fastening means (6), the flexible duct (1) being able to move freely in conjunction with the movement of the launching barrel of the machine. Its modular design provides easy adjustment of length and fitting, and is suitable for different machine models.

Description

Flexible duct for tennis ball launching machines. Field of application

[0001] The present invention pertains to the field of human needs, specifically to the subclass of sports training equipment. It relates to an internal component of a tennis ball launching machine, particularly a flexible duct of peculiar construction that directs the balls inside the machine, from the ball basket to the firing cannon, allowing for greater flexibility and mechanical adaptation compared to traditional models. History of the Invention

[0002] Tennis ball launching machines have been widely known for several decades, being used to assist tennis players in their training, simulating throws of similar intensity to game situations at different speeds, effects, and positions on the court.

[0003] Internally, most current products utilize a type of ramp or duct through which the ball travels, usually by gravity, from the exit of the ball basket at the top to the launching rotors (shooting cannon).

[0004] To perform this task, most machines use rigid metal ducts of fixed size and larger build, which clearly translates into less efficient use of internal space, greater robustness and an increase in the total weight of the equipment, as well as limitations on movement for throwing.

[0005] Some products incorporate flexible ducts, allowing for greater gun movement, but with some limitations regarding internal adaptation. Certain models may feature continuous, accordion-style walls, but still with limited mobility and flexibility in terms of twisting, stretching, and adjusting to the required bending angle.

[0006] Therefore, it is clear that the state of the art lacks a more flexible and adaptable solution that aligns with the demands of modern tennis player training, since the ducts used present problems that can result in blockages and loss of balls during operation. Furthermore, there are greater limitations regarding their implementation when projects with variations in internal sizes and positioning within the machine are desired. Analysis of the state of the art

[0007] Document CN209828192, filed on 23 / 03 / 2019, describes a tennis training throwing machine that has universal wheels on the four corners of the base, facilitating movement. Above the base, there is a launching mechanism and further above, a ball collection box. An outlet tube connects the bottom of the collection box to the launching mechanism. This tube is a straight, rigid, and fixed guiding tube. The described product can be considered a characteristic example of one of the prior art models, in which the tube lacks flexibility, lightness, and practicality.

[0008] Documents CN209137916, filed on 10 / 24 / 2018, and CN21 1676212, filed on 02 / 27 / 2020, describe traditional tennis ball launching machines, which include a fixed, rigid, and curved duct connecting the ball basket outlet to the firing cannon. Although they represent some evolution compared to the previous model, they still present problems such as lack of flexibility, lightness, and practicality regarding this guiding element.

[0009] US patent application US51 25653, filed on October 25, 1990, describes a tennis ball launching machine that includes an adjustable mechanism controlled by a microcomputer. It uses a flexible, spring-loaded corrugated tube to direct the balls to the firing cannon. The aforementioned tube exhibits a certain degree of flexibility and greater internal adjustment capacity compared to previously cited models; however, it has a fragile physical structure and presents problems regarding rotation, positioning, and stability inside the machine.

[0010] US patent document US5490493, filed on July 6, 1993, describes a machine designed to deliver balls, especially tennis balls. It has a ball feeder that transports individual balls from a loader to a ball ejector, controlled by an internal system that determines the ejection time. To allow synchronization with other machines, a device disables the internal controller, and a control input allows the connection of an external cable. Thus, external control signals can regulate the feeding and ejection time of the balls, instead of the internal signals. It uses a spiral metal tube to guide the balls; however, it has a robust, heavy physical structure and is inefficient in terms of torsion, positioning, and physical stability. Furthermore, it has less physical adaptation to the interior of the machine.

[0011] All the cited documents present directional ducts that differ from the present invention, even though they contemplate different constructive modalities. None of them proposes a technical-functional concept that implements the solutions and advantages proposed here. Summary of the invention

[0012] The present invention relates to an innovative configuration of a FLEXIBLE DUCT FOR TENNIS BALL LAUNCHING MACHINES. This item has the function of directing the ball from the exit of the basket to the entrance of the firing cannon, providing a lightweight, flexible means, adaptable to different variations in length and accommodation according to the size required in the machine.

[0013] It is specially designed to adapt to the available internal shape, physically adjusting itself according to the need for compression, stretching, torsion and curvature, without losing the characteristics of internal travel (gauge), so that in any position it allows the ball to travel freely inside it, whether by gravity or propulsion.

[0014] Furthermore, it has a tubular, segmented physical composition, formed by interconnected ring-shaped elements, composing flexible peripheral branches that allow the free movement of the entire assembly in three dimensions, while always maintaining the same internal diameter, so that the ball can always flow easily.

[0015] The invention implements a duct that includes the interconnection of multiple flexible segmented rings by means of fastening elements distributed around its outer part.

[0016] At the ends, it also features, on one side, two interconnected solid flanges that allow the system to rotate, one fixed to the machine and the other floating, and, on the opposite side, a rigid annular finish for fitting onto a ramp or mechanism that directs the ball to the firing cannon.

[0017] The parts are preferably manufactured from engineering plastic, but they can be made from other compatible materials, and can vary between more rigid or more flexible compositions.

[0018] The invention in question has the function of guiding the ball to the launching rotors, with the ability to execute any movement required by the machine without letting the ball fall, slip, or stray from its intended path, even with the uninterrupted movement of the firing cannon.

[0019] The flexible and continuous structure allows tennis balls to be guided at any angle or position required, ensuring a constant and efficient flow.

[0020] The modular design of the duct allows its size to vary depending on the number of incorporated annular segments, enabling easy adjustment of length and configuration to suit the specific requirements of each machine model.

[0021] Finally, it stands out for its low cost, easy assembly and maintenance, as well as presenting an extremely practical and highly effective constructive configuration in performing the necessary function. Advantages of the Invention

[0022] One advantage of the invention is that it provides complete freedom for the firing mechanism, solving a serious problem in throwing machines, namely, guiding the ball in any required position, whether horizontal or vertical, without it jamming or falling inside the equipment, which can cause damage to the machine and interruption of training.

[0023] Another advantage of the invention is that it provides greater flexibility, better utilizing the internal space of the machine.

[0024] Another advantage of the invention is that it facilitates the assembly and eventual replacement of the component.

[0025] Another advantage of the invention lies in its low cost and ease of manufacture, installation, and maintenance.

[0026] Another advantage of the invention is the implementation of a lighter and more flexible duct due to its construction using elements that incorporate open spaces.

[0027] Another advantage of the invention is that it offers a modular design, adaptable to different machine sizes, since the duct length can vary depending on the number of annular segments used. Description of the figures

[0028] For a better understanding of a preferred embodiment of the invention proposed herein, the following images are presented by way of illustration:

[0029] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the flexible duct (1) for tennis ball launching machines, in a contracted position.

[0030] Figure 2 shows an exploded view of the flexible duct (1), detailing its components.

[0031] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the fixed flange (3), detailing its components.

[0032] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the floating flange (4), detailing its components.

[0033] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of an annular segment (2), detailing its components.

[0034] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the annular finish (5), detailing its components. Detailed description of the invention

[0035] In a preferred configuration, as shown in figures 1 and 2, the invention describes a flexible duct (1) for tennis ball launching machines.

[0036] The flexible duct (1) consists of a set of adjacently connected annular segments (2) by means of fasteners (6), having, at one end, a connection with a floating flange (4), which in turn is fitted internally to a fixed flange (3), and, at the other end, a connection with an annular finish (5).

[0037] The fixed flange (3), illustrated in figure 3, is a rigid piece, made of engineering plastic, or other compatible polymer, which has a cylindrical geometry, provided with chamfers (3.4) on its outer upper edge, forming a polygonal figure, and having holes (3.2) distributed between the chamfers (3.4), for fixing to the ball basket.

[0038] On its inner part, it has smooth walls (3.1) in the upper region, and is provided with fitting channels (3.3) in the lower region, for connection with the floating flange (4) so ​​that it has free rotational movement in both directions.

[0039] The floating flange (4), illustrated in figure 4, is a rigid piece, manufactured in engineering plastic, or other compatible polymer, which has a cylindrical geometry, smooth throughout its internal region (4.4), provided with a polygonal edge (4.2), preferably hexagonal, on the lower part, provided with holes (4.3) in at least two of its ends, for fixing to the annular segment (2), also provided with a protruding and annular upper edge (4.5), provided with cutouts (4.6), which connects to the fixed flange (3), fitting into its internal channels (3.3).

[0040] The annular segment (2), illustrated in figure 5, is a flexible piece, made of engineering plastic, or other compatible polymer, which has an annular geometry, flattened in the transverse direction, provided with rounded protruding portions (2.1), spaced along its circumference in its outer portion, equipped with holes (2.2) for the passage of fastening means (6).

[0041] The annular segments (2) are configured to connect adjacently, by means of the fastening means (6), distributed along their periphery, varying from 2 to 12 connection points per segment, with 6 in a preferred embodiment.

[0042] This fitting configuration allows flexibility of movement in both the longitudinal and transverse directions. This, combined with the fact that there is free rotation between the fixed (3) and floating (4) flanges, allows total freedom of movement to the duct (1), enabling the efficient conduction of tennis balls, for any movement of the firing cannon.

[0043] The annular finish (5), illustrated in figure 6, is a rigid piece, made of aluminum, or other metal, which has an annular geometry, flattened in the transverse direction, rounded internally, provided with an outer polygonal edge (5.1), preferably hexagonal, provided with holes (5.2) at its ends, for connection to the annular segment (2) and with polygonal openings (5.3), preferably rectangular, for connection and fitting with the launch ramp (not illustrated) that carries the ball to the rotating rotors (not illustrated) for throwing.

[0044] The fastening means (6) used to interconnect the annular segments (2), as shown in Figures 1 and 2, in a preferred configuration are rivets formed by fitting between a male part and a female part. However, alternative configurations are possible, using known state-of-the-art variations.

[0045] The internal diameter of the flexible duct (1) has dimensions compatible with those of a tennis ball, so that it can move freely, either by gravity, in a preferred configuration, or by propulsion, in alternative configurations.

[0046] The end containing the fixed flange (3) connects to an opening in the ball basket outlet and the end containing the annular finish (5) connects to the firing barrel.

[0047] The flexible duct (1) can be fixed to the internal elements of the machine by means of fasteners, preferably screws, but rivets, welding, mechanical fitting, gluing or other suitable methods known in the art may also be used.

[0048] Although specific embodiments are mentioned, there may be other modalities of the solution encompassed within the basic proposition addressed here, for example, presenting variations in fittings, shapes, or sizes, but using the same original concept represented. It should be understood that these configurations may be included in alternative embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, this invention is not limited to the representations discussed or illustrated here and should be understood in its broad scope. Modifications and other forms are understood as possible and are only delimited within the content of the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. FLEXIBLE DUCT FOR TENNIS BALL LAUNCHING MACHINES characterized by comprising a set of adjacently connected annular segments (2) by means of fastening (6), having, at one end, a connection with a floating flange (4), which in turn is fitted internally to a fixed flange (3), and at the other end, a connection with an annular finish (5), connected by means of fastening (6), the flexible duct (1) being provided with free movement, integral with the movement of the machine's firing cannon.

2. FLEXIBLE DUCT FOR TENNIS BALL LAUNCHING MACHINES, according to claim 1, characterized by comprising a fixed flange (3), rigid, having a cylindrical geometry, provided with chamfers (3.4) on its outer upper edge, forming a polygonal figure, also having orifices (3.2) distributed between the chamfers (3.4), and also having, internally, smooth walls (3.1) in the upper region, and fitting channels (3.3) in the lower region.

3. FLEXIBLE DUCT FOR TENNIS BALL LAUNCHING MACHINES, according to claim 1, characterized by comprising a rigid, cylindrical floating flange (4), smooth throughout its internal region (4.4), provided with a polygonal edge (4.2), preferably hexagonal, at the bottom, which contains holes (4.3) at at least two of its ends and also provided with a protruding and annular upper edge (4.5), provided with cutouts (4.6).

4. FLEXIBLE DUCT FOR TENNIS BALL LAUNCHING MACHINES, according to claim 1, characterized by comprising at least 1 flexible annular segment (2), with an annular geometry flattened in the transverse direction, provided with rounded protruding portions (2.1), spaced along its circumference in its outer portion, equipped with holes (2.2) for the passage of fastening means (6), having between 2 and 12 connection points, preferably 6.

5. FLEXIBLE DUCT FOR TENNIS BALL LAUNCHING MACHINES, according to claim 1, characterized by comprising fastening means (6) between the annular segments (2), preferably rivets.

6. FLEXIBLE DUCT FOR TENNIS BALL LAUNCHING MACHINES, according to claim 1, characterized by comprising a rigid annular finish (5), of annular geometry, flattened in the transverse direction, rounded internally, provided with an outer polygonal edge (5.1), preferably hexagonal, provided with holes (5.2) at its ends, for connection to the annular segment (2) and polygonal openings (5.3), preferably rectangular, for connection and fitting with the launching ramp.

7. Flexible duct for tennis ball launching machines, according to claim 1, characterized by having an internal width compatible with the diameter of a tennis ball.

8. FLEXIBLE DUCT FOR TENNIS BALL LAUNCHING MACHINES, according to claim 1, characterized in that the annular segments (2), floating flange (4) and fixed flange (3) are made of polymeric material, preferably engineering plastic, and the annular finish (5) is made of a metallic material, preferably aluminum.

9. FLEXIBLE DUCT FOR TENNIS BALL LAUNCHING MACHINES, according to claim 1, characterized by comprising means of fastening to the internal components of the machine, on one side to an opening in the ball basket, preferably by screws, and on the other side to a launching ramp, preferably by mechanical fitting.

Images