AU608347B2 - Portable batting cage and method of assembling same - Google Patents

Description

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4-'rty COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA PATENTS ACT 1952 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION (Original) This document contairs the ame)ndments mdde under Section 49 and is co'ect for prin t ing.

FOR OFFICE USE Class Int. Class Application Number: Lodged: Complete Specification Lodged: Accepted: Published: 0 0 0 S° riority: elated Art: 0009 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 This document contains the ar' tidrnls allowed undo, 'm ly the Sup j ad c£e t n o pon and is con ect for 0° ame of Applicant: 0 *0 0 00 Address of Applicant: 00 0 0 as ooActual Inventor 0 0000 Address for Service: ROBERT LEE WRIGHT 4221 75th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50322, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Robert Lee WRIGHT DAVIES COLLISON, Patent Attorneys, 1 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, 3000.

Complete specification for the invention entitled: "PORTABLE BATTING CAGE AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLING SAME" The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me 1 z 1EP. I-I I 1- 1 IfI-N I I A H Various types of cage assemblies have been utilized to permit a baseball or softball player to take batting practice.

Such cages typically include a net draped over but not oo o attached to, a super structure so as to stop the batted o 0 o0" balls. However, the super structure or framework of such 006 cages is usually made from metal or other heavy material and °o000 is permanently anchored in the ground. Also, the use of such 00o o 0 0 a S°n heavy framework presents a hazard to the batter and to others when a batted ball ricochets off the framework.

0 a. jAlso, balls often get caught in the net due to the free 0 00 0 0 hanging suspension of the net from the framework.

C 00 ao° Furthermore, conventional batting cages are permanently erected out of doors and therefore cannot be used during coat I inclement 'weather. It is also difficult to erect a batting co cage indoors without damaging the floors.

Therefore, it is a primary objective of the present invention to provide an improved batting cage.

A further objective of the present invention is the provision of a portable batting cage which can be erected indoors or out of doors.

Another objective of the present invention is the S-2i provision of a floor mat for anchoring the framework of the batting cage and for protecting the floor of an indoor arena.

A further objective of the present invention is the provision of a batting cage which is portable.

Another objective of the present invention is the provision of a batting cage having a framework constructed of lightweight, shock absorbing plastic pipe.

Still another objective of the present invention is ao aO* the provision of a batting cage which completely surrounds the user and which causes balls to drop straight downwardly "a when hit into the cage netting or framework.

ao 0o A further objective of the present invention is the provision of a batting cage which minimizes the ricochet a0 of the ball off the super structure.

a a a 00 Another objective of the present invention is the provision of a batting cage in which a one piece net is attached directly to the framework rather than being suspended over the framework.

Another objective of the present invention is the provision of a batting cage in which the stress along each arcuately shaped frame member is balanced.

A further objective of the present invention is the provision of a batting cage in which the environmental conditions outside of the cage are maintained within the cage.

-3- -4 1 A stl further objective of te present invention is 2 the provision of a batting cage having a shape which can be 3 easily realigned and adjusted by adjusting the anchoring 4 cables.

Still another objective of the present invention is the 6 provision of a batting cage which can be used indoors or 7 outdoors.

8 Another objective of the present invention is the 9 provision of a batting cage which is nct inhibitive to the batter.

11 Another objective of the present invention is the 12 provision of a batting cage which simulates game conditions.

13 A further objective of the present invention is the 1~4 provision of a batting cage which is easy to assemble and 15 disassemible, and which is safe and durable in use.

0000 17 M -A S18 o 4-19 The elongated portable batting cage according to one aspect of the present invention is erectable on a support surf ace 21 having opposite ends whereat a batting station and a 22 pitching station are respectively located. The cage '23 comprises an enlarged mat spreadable in covering relation S24 over the support surface, and a plurality of longitudinally spaced apart, arcuately shaped, resilient frame members 044426 having opposite ends engaging the mat. Securing means are *"27 disposed on the mat for holding each of said ends of the frame members in position on the mat. Anchoring means is 29 attached to the frame members and is attachable to the 30 support surface for maintaining the frame members in an 31 upright position. A net is secured to the frame members so 32 as to hang loosely therefrom and form a normally 33 substantially arch shaped enalosure having opposite ends and ,~\L1V4 opposite sides. The frame members are laterally and longitudinally flexible svch that the enclosure, upon impact k6 by a ball, momentarily cakz rms to abiorb the impact energy 7,Ft4 3 7 of the ball and thereby cause the ba~ll to fall within the 1 38 cage without substantial ricocheating, the enclosure Sc881O6, Snas, 00 1.wri~hbape, 77 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 12 0 013 1 ~4 1 0 016 0000 17 o 0 ~18 *0 21 22 23 6 *24 00025 *26 27 28 31 32 33 34 36 37

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1 7~ automatically returning to said arch shape after the impact energy has been absorbed.

elongated, portable cage for ball sports which comprises naseod sptofiv ton lopriesa plurality of arcuately shaped frame members having opposite ends supported by a support surface, a plurality of anchoring means attached directly to the frame members and attachable to the support surface for maintaining the frame members in an upright position, and a net secured to the frame members having excess material between the frame members so as to hang loosely therefrom and form an elongated arch shaped enclosure having opposite sides and opposite ends. In this second aspect of the invention, the frame members are laterally and longitudinally flexible and movable substantially unrestricted by the net and the anchoring means such that the enclosure temporarily deforms upon impact by a ball so as to absorb the forces of impact and L hereby cause the ball to fall within the enclosure without substantial ricocheting, the enclosure automatically returning to the arch shape after absorption of these forces.

The invention still further affords a method of assembling an elongated portable batting cage upon a support surfa~ce, which ise formed by a normally substantially semicylindrical shaped enclosure having opposite ends whereat a batting station and a pitching station are respectively' located, and comprises a plurality of longitudinally spaced apart, arcuately shaped, resilient frame members haviinq opposite ends; at least one elongated flexible cable means for anchoring the frame members on the support surface, and a net having a plurality of sleeves disposed therein. The method includes spreading an enlarged mat in covering relation over a support surface, the mat having opposite ends and opposite sides, and a pliwrality of pockets formed therein along the length thereof ahd adjacent the opposite sides thereof. One of the frame members is inserted into each of the sleeves in the net. such that the ends of the frame members protrude from the sleeve. The cable means is 3, Snape. 001. ,wriht, ape, ylli -6- C, 0 o o000 0 a 0 0 000 t 1)

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0 0000 o 0 0 0O00 00 0 0 0 o 0 0 I aO0 o 0 0 00o0 S0 0 00 0 0 6 connected to the plurality of frame members.

The opposite ends of the first of the plurality of frame members is inserted into the pockets at one end of the mat, and the first frame member is stood into an upright position. One end of the cable means is anchored to the support surface at a position remote from the first frame member.

The opposite ends of each successive frame member are sequentially inserted into the respective pockets and the frame members are stood into an upright position while maintaining tension on the cable means.

The other end of the cable means is anchored to the support surface at a position remote from the last of the frame members.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of ex 'ple only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of the batting cage of the present invention.

15 Figure 2 is an end elevational view of the batting cage.

Figure 3 is a partial side elevational view of the batting cage.

Figure 4 is a top plan view of the batting cage.

Figure 5 is a side elevation sectional view of a ground stake over which the cage leg fits when the cage is erected outside.

20 Figure 6 is a perspective view of the support boot 0 0 4 0 01 9101t4,RSHDAT,0U22 9 003.S6 used for setting up the cage indoors.

Figure 7 is a sectional view of a leg and boot taken along lines 7-7 of Figure 6.

Figure 8 is a bottom plan view of the leg and boot taken along lines 8-8 of Figure 7.

Figure 9 is a partial sectional view taken along line 9-9 of Figure 4.

Figure 10 is a partial view taken along lines 10-10 44 of Figure 4.

o« Figure 11 is a partial sectional view taken along lines a o 11-11 of Figure Figure 12 is an enlarged view of the lock bolt used to °S couple adjacent pieces of PCV pipe, Figures 13-16 are schematics progressively showing the 9o o accordian-like collapse of the cage after it has been oe initially set up.

0 0a0 Figure 17 is a perspective sketch of an indoor arena o 06 having two batting cages erected therein end-to-ep.d.

0,o Figure 18 is a perspective view of the batting cage of the present invention erected on a floor mat.

Figure 19 is a perspective view of the floor mat having the boots inserted into the pockets therein and showing in broken lines the straps interconnecting each of the pockets.

Figure 20 is a schematic showing the erection of the batting cage on the floor mat.

Figure 21 is an end view of the batting cage.

-7i: .ii _1 Figure 22 is a partial side elevational view of the batting cage.

Figure 23 is an enlarged view taken along lines 23-23 of Figure 22.

Figure 24 is a sectional view taken along lines 24-24 of Figure 23.

Figure 25 is a sectional view taken along lines 25-25 of Figure 23.

Figure 26 is a perspective view showing the pocket and O, the connecting straps of the floor mat.

Figure 27 is a sectional view taken along lines 27-27 of a4 Figure 26.

000 0 Figures 28-30 are schematic views showing the effect of 0 0 impact of a ball upon the framework of the batting cage.

Figure 31 is a side sectional view taken along line S2 31-31 of Figure 20 showing the flexibility of the upper portion of the boot when a leg is being inserted into the o 99 boot.

Figure 32 is a schematic view showing the effect of I'o impact of a ball on the net.

Figure 33 is another schematic view taken along lines 33-33 ot Figure 28 showing the effect of impact of a ball on the fTameork of the batting cage.

Figure 34 is an enlarged view taken along lines 34- 34 of Figure 29 and showing the movement of a leg in the boot.

Figure 35 is a side sectional view similar to Figure showing a ground plate for preventing the leg from digging into the ground.

-8- Favt ima t o] al n t en t ni• 0 09* O0oo 00 77 4t Figure 36 is a view showing a modified embodiment of the end cable.

The portable batting cage of the present invention is generally designated in the drawings by the reference numeral 10. Cage 10 can be erected on any support surface 12 either indoors or out of doors. Batting cage 10 is generally comprised of a plurality of arcuately shaped frame members 14, anchoring means 16 attached to frame members 14 and support surface 12 for maintaining the frame members in an upright position, and a net 18 secured to frame members 14 so as to form an elongateds--m-i--e-y-4-i-driea4 enclosure.

Each arcuate frame member 14 is constructed from a plurality of releasably coupled plastic pipes which are flexible, shock absorbing and lightweight. More particularly, each frame member 14 preferably has a pair of substantially straight opposite legs 20 and 22 and a pair of curved pipe segments 24 and 26. Each pipe section is hollow and coupled to the adjacent section by a reduced diameter coupler 28, as seen in Figure 11. For example, coup-lr 28 is rigidly secured to leg 22 by glue or the like and extends therefrom so as to releasably receive curved segment 26. Curved segment 26 is locked against movement with respect to leg 22 by a lock bolt 30 extending through aligned apertures in curved segment 26 and coupler 28. A pair of saddle washers 32 are positioned on each side of curved pipe segment 26 to -9prevent lock bolt 30 from cracking the plastic pipe when nut 34 is tightened on bolt 28.

A similar coupling assembly as shown in Figure 11 and described above is provided at the juncture of leg 20 and curved pipe segment 24, and between the upper adjoining ends of curved segments 24 and 26, as seen in Figure 9. It is understood that any other convenient coupling arrangement can also be used to join the pipes which form frame members 14.

so SWhen cage 10 is used indoors, the lower end of each frame leg 20 and 22 is positioned in a hollow leg boot 36. Boot oo 1 36 includes a leg receiving portion 38 and an enlarged plate member 40. Leg receiving portion 38 is angularly disposed a with respect to plate member 40 as seen in Figures 6 and 7.

*O Boot 36 is preferably constructed of rigid plastic material, a except Cot top end 42 of portion 38 which is preferably made of flexible rubber material so as to permit minimal movement of the leg within boot 36 during assembly of cage The lower ends of legs 20 and 22 are covered by a removable cap 52 to prevent damage to the indoors support surface 12. Non-skid material 54, such as double sided tape or the like, is fixed to the bottom of plate member 40 such that boot 36 will not slide upon support surface 12.

When cage 10 is assembled out-of-doors, boots 36 are not required and hollow frame legs 20 and 22 may be placed directly over the respective upper protruding ends of stakes i i I i U1 _L.

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56 which are anchored in the ground or support surface 12, as seen in Figure Anchoring means 16 used in stabilizing frame members 14 In an upright position generally comprises a plurality of elongated, flexible first cable means 60, 62 and 64, extending along the length of the batting cage enclosure, to provide longitudinal stability thereto, and a plurality of elongated 4.2 flexible second cable means 66 extending laterally from the 0:6. encl6sure for lateral stability.

Longitudinal cables 60 and 64 are identical to one another Ji and preferably comprise a single length of cable having opposite ends 68 and 70 which are anchored at a point remote from the ends 72 and 74, respectively, of batting cage 10 by a stake 76 or in any other convenient manner, Longitudinal cables 1,i, and 64 extend along the sides of batting cage 10 and are io received within a slot or notch 78 in lock bolt 30 adjacent the respective juncture of each leg 20 and 22 with curved segments 24 and 26. When nut 52 is tightened upol) lock bolt cables 60 and 64 are clamped in slot 78 between the head of bolt 30 and the adjacent saddle washer 32, so as to maintain the spaced relation' between frame members 14. As soon in Figure cables 60 and 64 are positioned on the inside of net 18 except at each bolt 30 wherein the cable passes on the exterior of frame member 14.

in contrast to longitudinal cubles 60 and 64, longitudinal cable 62 extending along the top of batting cage I -11- It preferably includes a series of shorter lengths of cable 62a, 62b, 62C, 62d, 62e and 62f. At least one end of cable lengths 62a and 62f, and both ends of cable lengths 62b, 62c, 62d, and 62e have a clip 80 attached thereto. Each clip is fastened to a ring 82 fixed to the head of lock bolt Cables 62b-e are preferably weaved through net 18, as best seen in Figure 9. Cables 62a and 62f extend outwardly o 4 from the ends 72 and 74 of batting cage 10 and are secured

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@999 o~ to ,Upport surface 12 by stake 76.

99°0 While first cable means 60, 62 and 64 are pre'lerably constructed and attached to batting casje 10 as described above, it is understood that all these cables could be similarly constructed and fastened to the batting cage, or that side cables 60 and 64 could be a plurality of shorter o9° lengthe of cables with top cable 62 being a single elongated cable, each being secured to oatting cage 10 in the appropriate fashion.

co The plurality of secori. cable means 66 provide lateral stability for batting cage 10. Each length of cable 66 ircludes a clip 84 at one end thereof which is fastened to ring 82 on lock bolt 30 at the respective joint of leg and curved segment 24, or leg 22 and curved segment 26. The opposite end of cables 66 are anchord to support surface 12 by stakes 86 or in any other convenient manner.

let 18 is generally rectangular in shape ond includes a plurality of sleeves 88 extending, across the width thereof.

-12- Net 18 and sleeves 88 are made of nylon or other weather- I~resistant material. Each sleeve 88 is adapted to receive one of frame members 14, as neen in Figures 9, 10 and 11, such that batting cage 10 maintains its arcuate shape.

Sleeves 88 include slots or openings (not shown) therein to provide access to lock, bolts 30. Velcro fastening material may be provided on such access slots or openings. The spacing between adjacent sleeves 88 is substantially equal to the 4499 length of cables 62b-e. A plurality of net clips or split rings 90 are snapped about cables 60 or 64 and a portion I of net 18 to further maintain the shape of the batting cage enclosure.

The apertures in net 18 are sufficiently small, to prevent 990 4 00a bal~l from passing thecethrough, yet sufficiently large to' maintain the external environmental conditions within the 44 batting cage enclosure. Thus, the interior of batting cage simulates actual game conditions, for example, when sun, ramn or wind exists. Also, the inherent transparent nature of net 18 further simulates actual game conditions wherein the batter is in the presence of spectators and noise. Also, the permeability of net 18 to both the human eye and to the weather conditions permits batting cage 10 to be assembled out of doors without detracting from the aesthetics of the environment and without damaging or killing the grass located within bat~tinq cage To assemble batting cage 10, the proper positions of leg boots 36 or leg stakes 56 are marked on oupport surface 12.

Net 18 is spread out over the markings such that tLhe openings in sleeve.s 88 are facing upwardly. Frame members 14 are assembled by coupling leg 20 to curved segment 24, curved segment 24 to curved segment 26, anu curved segment 26 to leg 22, via coupler 28 and lock bolt 30. Frame members 14 2 are then inserted into sleeves 88 in net 18 until the lower end of each leg extends from the respective sleeve. Each lock bolt 30 is positioned adjacent the slot in sleeve 88 with r: ing 82 thereof extending outwardly. Leg caps 52 are placed over the ends of the legs if cage 10 is being erected indoors.

Each longitudinal cablP, 62a-f is then attached to frame members 14 by snapping clips 80 to ring 82 on the respective lock bolt 30 at the juncture of curved frame segments 24 and 26 within the intermediate portion of the cable being weaved under or through net 18.

Next, boots 36 or stakes 56 are secured to the marked spacing on or in support surface 12. Stake 56 and leg receiving portions 3,9 of boots 36 are angled inwardly so as to receive legs 20 and 22. End stakes 76 are anchored in their proper position in support surface 12. The end frame member 14 to which cable 62a is att-iched is then positioned within the respective boot 36 or over the respective stake 56. The free end of cable 62a is then fastened to stake 76.

-14- .*il SThe remaining frame members 14 are sequentially positioned into their respective boots 36 while maintaining tension on longitudinal cable 62 until the last frame member is in an Supright position and the free end of the cable 62f is secured to the stake 76 at the opposite end of batting cage Longitudinal cables 60 and 64 are then weaved inside net S, 18 and outside net sleeves 88 and positioned within notches O at 78 in lock bolts 30. Nut 34 is tightened on bolt 30 so as to clamp cable 60 and 64 in place. Cables 60 and 64 may be "marked at the appropriate place for positioning within each notch 78 of lock bolts 30. The ends of cebles 60 and 64 are then fastened to end stakes 76. All the frame members i should stand perpendicular to support surface 12. If one or j more frame members ar not perpendicular to support surface 12, S longitudinal cables 60 and 64 can be adjusted by loosening lock bolts 30 and moving the appropriate frame member or SI members to a perpendicular position. Lock bolts 30 are then Sre-tightened.

Clips 84 on 1 teral cables 66 are then snapped onto ring 1 82 of lock bolts 30 and the opposite end of the cables Sanchored to support surface 12 by stakes 86. Net 18 car be laterally adjusted so that there is substantially equal overhang on each side of cage 10. Finally, split rings are placed around cables 60 and 64 and net 18 at the desired locations.

IIl To disassemble the batting cage, the above steps are Ireversed.

Once balt,ting cage 10 is initially erected, it can be collapsed in accordian-like fashion against a wall or fence 92 without complete disaasembly, as seen in Figures 13-16.

Mre batclrlwiecae1 is still standing, cross- 62a nd 4 ae ufasene atoneend from end stake 76.

frae mmbes 1 ca besequentially removed from the repciebo 6o stake 56, as the respective side cables 66 are released from sujpport surface 12, and moved 4 in a vertical orientation toward wall or fence 92. As an alentiet mvn frame members 14 in a vertical orietatonendcables 601 62a and 64 can be released at one end from edstake 76 and frame members 14 can be laid down upon support surface 12. side cables 6 are reloased !I from support surface 12 and frame members 14 slid in a sub- I tantially horizontal orientation over boots 36 and toward wall 92. Frame members 13 can then be pivoted upwardly into a vertical orientation against wall 92, commencing with thle frame member closest to wall 92. After all frame members 14 are positioned adjacent wall, 92, frame clips 96 can be placed! i.around frame members 14 and secured to wall 92 to prevent the frame members from falling down. Also, a pair of side -16-

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9D 4d 4 4Y 4, o 4 q *P 4 44 $4 4c t 44 444$ cables 66 can be used in place of frame clips 96 to secure frame members 14 in position against wall 92. It is understood that during the accordian collapse of cage 10 against wall or fence 92, all of the support cables are disconnected from their anchoring position in support surface 12 and remain attached to frame members 14.

It is also desirable to be able to erect the batting cage indoors to permit year around batting practice despite inclement weather. Figures 17-22, 26 and 27 show a cage 110 erected in an indoor arena 111. Cage 110 is substantially identical to batting cage 10 previously decribed and therefore similar reference numerals are used to designate the structural components of cage 110 which are identical to those described previously with respect to cage Indoor arenas generally have a floor covering 112 of artificial turf, synthetic material, or wood which is very costly to replace or repair if damaged. Accordingly, it is desirable to protect such floor covering from damage by batting cage 110. Also, the non-skid material 54 on the bottom of boots 36, as previously described, generally does not adhere to artificial turf. A floor mat 114 is provided which allows erection 6f cage 110 upon any type of floor covering 112 while also protecting thd floor covering from any damage. Mat 114 can also be used to erect cage 110 out of doors. Mat 114 is preferably made of vinyl material, however, other materials may also be suitable.

-17- 9 to 4 0*o 44 4 4 9 @4 4 69 9 9 4 *0 4 4.

44 44 446 As best seen in Figures 26 and 27, floor mat 114 includes a plurality of pockets 116, each of which is adapted to receive a boot 36 so as to hold frame members 14 in position. Each pocket 116 includes an outer flap 118 and an inner flap 120, both of which are secured to mat 114 by sewing or any other convenient means. Each pocket 116 also includes opposite side flaps 122 having opposite ends 124 and 126. End 124 is secured to inner flap 122 by sewing or the like, while end 126 releasably secured to outer flap 118 by Velcro material 128 or the like. To insert boot 36 into pocket 116, side flaps 122 are detached from outer flap 118. Base 40 of boot 36 is sufficiently flexible to *allow the boot to be temporarily deformed so as to slip into place in pockets 116 between outer flap 118 and inner Iflap 120. Af ter boot, 36 is in the pocket, side flaps 122 *are secured to outer flap 118 by Velcro material 128 such that boo," 36 is securely held in place within pocket 116.

A plate member 130 is located in each pocket 116 beneath Iboot 36 so as to further protect floor covering 112 from damage.

As seen in Figures 19 and 26, a plurality of straps 132 extend between each pocket 1.16. Straps 132 are. sewn to the bottom of mat 114 so as to prevent strcetching of the mat in response to the forces of frame members 14 of cage The remote ends 68 and 70 of longitudinal cables 62a, 64a, 60f, 62f and 64f are secured to any convenient fixture located in the wall of arena 111 or in the floor of arena 111, such as a goal post socket 138.

Further modifications of cage 110 are shown in Figures 23-25, 35 and 36. In particular, as shown in Figure 24, sleeves 88 are enlarged and are provided with an inner sleeve 134 to provide additional strength to the sleeve.

o O ,o a Also, the bolt extending through the frame member and coupler 28, designated by the reference numeral 30', does *o not include the slot 78 previously described with respect thereto, and shown best in Figure 12. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 23, the longitudinal side cables are not continuous 'r lengths of cables, as previously described, but rather, 429* comprise a series of shorter lengths of cables 60a-60f and 64a-64f. Each end of cable segments 60a-f and 64a-f has a clip 136 for securing the segment to the ring 82 on the respective bolt 30', similar to the connection of longitudinal top cable segments 62a-f previously described.

An additional modified embodiment of end cable sections 62A, 64A, 60F, 62F and 64F utilizes a pair of nylon Sstraps connected together by a seat belt-type adjustable Sfastener fbr permitting quick and easy adjustment of the cable tension, as shown in Figure 36. Also, it may be Sdesirable to use additional longitudinal cables 63, a6 shown in Figures 18, 21 and 22 to prevent the loose -19i, net 18 fi;;om sagging or billowinij, excessively inwardly.

Cables 63 and 65 can be identical to cables 60, 62, 64 or I can be continuous cables weaved through net 18, wrapped around each frame member 14 and secured to the opposite end stakes 76 or goal post socket 138.

When cagie 10 or 110 is used outdoors, it is also preferable to place a ground plate 140 having a hole therein over stake 000 76 to prevent legs 20 and Z2 from digging into the ground.

0 ~Plate 140 is preferably not fixed to stake 76, but may be attached to stake 76 by welding or any other convenient 4 Q0 0.

manner.

In assembling cage 110 in arena 111, floor mat 114 is spread in covering relation over floor covering 112. Boots o o~36 are then fit within pockets 116 and side flaps 122 are Sl: secured over boots 36. Frame members 1,4 are assembled and ,slid into sleeves 88, as previously described. Ltongitudinal cables 60a-f-, 62a-f and 64a-f are then attached to frame members 14 by snapping the end clips to ring 82 on the respective bolt 30' with a portion of the cable being weaved under or through net 18.

As shown in Figure 20, the net and framework assembly i~s II slid onto mat 114. The end frame member 14 to which cable 62a is attached is then positioned within the respective boot 36 and the free end of cable 62a is then anchored to the wall or- floor of arena 111 in any onvenient manner.

As shown in Figure 31t the upper portion 42 is flexible so as to allow the frame member to, be easily inserted intu 99* 9* 9 9 9 99* 9 9 99 9 94 I 9 9 9 99 t 9 00 9 4 4 i 999 the boot at an angle and then moved to an upright position.

SThe remaining frame members 14 are sequentially positioned in their respective boots 36, while maintaining tension on longitudinal cable 62 until the last frame member is in an upright position and the free end of cable 62f is anchored to the wall or floor of arena 111, The free ends of longitudinal side cables 60a, 64a, 60f and 64f can be anchored to the wall or floor of arena 111 when cables 62a or 62f are anchored or can be anchored after all of the frame members 114 are in the upright position. No lateral cables 66 are necessac y.

Split rings 90 are then placed around cables 60 and 64 and net 18 at the desired locations.

Batting cage 110 can be disassembled by reversing the steps described above. Also, batting cage 110 can be collapsed in accordian-like fashion against a wall or laid j upon the floor without complete disassembly, as described previously. Floor mat 114 can be rolled or folded with boots 36 remaining in pockets 116.

.i Figures 29-30 and 32-34 illustrate the flexible nature Sof batting cages 10 and 110 which allows the force of a batted ball to be absorbed by the cage structure.

For example, a batter standing at point 142 hits a ball along a path designated by arrow 144 so as to hit frame member 14b at a point 146, a seen in Figure 28. Such impact will cause the entire cage, and particularly frame member 14b, to deform as shown by the dotted line 148 in -21 2. i 1 0* *v 4 0000 00 04 66 0 ,04 00 o 00 O 0 Figure 29, and thereby absorb the energy of the ball. As a further example, when the batter hits another ball along the path indicated by arrow 150 so as to impact upon frame member 14c at a point 152, the cage, and particularly frame member 14c, will deflect as shown by the dotted line 154 in Figure 30. In both instances, the frame member also moves within boot 36 due to the resiliency of the upper portion 42 of the boot, as best shown in Figures 33 and 34, and moves within sleeve 88 or 88' and inner sleeve 134 due to the slack in the sleeves. Also, when imticted by a ball, the frame member itself flexes or bows momentarily, as best shown in Figure 33.

When the batter hits a ball along the path indicated by arrow 156A or 156B in Figure 28 so as to impact on net 18 at a point 158A or 158B, respectiv,Ly, net 18 will deflect from its normally draped position shown by dotted lines in Figure 32 so as to absorb the impact energy of the ball.

Thus, regardless of where the ball impacts upon the cage, the cage will temporarily deform to absorb the forces of impact such that the ball will fall substantially straight down without ricocheting. Also, since the cage is arcuately shaped, the ball always strikes a surface which i* at least in part, downwardly presented. Thus, the accuate shape further contributes to the ball dropping substantially straight down without eh4

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While the present invention has been desccibed as a batting cage for baseball or softball batting peacice, it -22- -1-i U~ is understood that the cage can be used for any other type of activity wherein it is desirable to stop a ball or object, such as golf practice. The mesh of the net is sized according to the size of the ball which is used in the cage.

Also, light, wind and air pass through the net to give the batter a feeling of openness rather than a feeling of being enclosed.

4 r The unique arcuate shape of batting cages 10 and 110 So I and the construction thereof provide a game-simulating enclosure wherein the exterior elements pass through to the interior of the cage. Furthermore, the cage absorbs the impact energy of a batted ball and thereby causes the 0 a ball to drop substantially straight down after impact.

4 *4 Also, the cage stops all balls regardless of the direction .4 the ball is hit without the ball being caught -p in the netting, and minimizes ricochet of the ball when it hits a frame member. Batting cages 10 and 110 are portable and can *nt* be easily realigned and adjusted by resetting the plurality of cables.

;i From the foregoing, it can be seen that the present i invention accomplishes at least all of the stated objectives.

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Claims (19)

1. 3. The batting cage of claim 2 further comprising a boot secured in each of said pockets for receiving one of said ends of said frame members.
2. 4. The batting cage of claim 3 wherein each of said pockets includes means for opening and closing said pocket such that said boot is insertable into and removable from caid pocket, The batting cage of claim 4 wherein said means for opening and closing said pocket includes at least one elongated flap having opposite first and go,, second ends, said first end being permanently secured to said mat and said second end being releasably secured to said mat, said flap extending over a portion of said boot when said second end is secured to said mat thereby S° securing said boot in said pocket. o 0
3. 6. The batting cage of claim 2 wherein said mat further includes plate S" means in the bottom of each pocket for protecting said support surface from damages by said ends of said frame members,
4. 7. The batting cage of claim 2 wherein said mat further includes a plurality of straps extending between said pockets for reinforcing said mat.
5. 8. The batting cage of claim 1 wherein each of said frame members include a plurality of releasably coupled sections,
6. 9. The batting cage of claim 1 wherein said anchoring means includes at least one elongated flexible cable means extending along the length of said batting cage and being secured to each of said frame members and being secured at opposite ends to said support surface at a point remote from the ends of said enclosure. The batting cage of claim 1 wherein said anchoring means includes a 91o1 O,RsHDATo22w3.Rr2s -26- pair of elongated flexible first cable members extending along opposite sides of said enclosure and an elongated flexible second cable member extending along the top of said enclosure, said first and second cable members having opposite ends secured to said support surface at a point remote from the sides of said enclosure, and said first and second cable members being secured to said frame members intermediate said opposite ends thereof.
7. 11. The batting cage of claim 10 wherein said first and second cable members include a plurality of lengths of cable secured to said frame member in end-to-end relation. S 12. The batting cage of claim 1 wherein said net includes a plurality of sleeves disposed therein and through which said frame members extend. 4 0
8. 13. The batting cage of claim 1 wherein said net has apertures therein the diameter of which is sufficiently small to prevent a ball from passing therethrough and sufficiently large to maintain the exterior environment conditions on the interior of said enclosure. a 1 S 14. The batting cage of claim 1 wherein a plurality of net clips secure said a net to said anchoring means whereby the shape of said enclosure is maintained. **4as 15. A method of assembling an elongated portable batting cage upon a support surface, said cage being formed by a normally substantially semi- cylindrical shaped enclosure having opposite ends whereat a batting station and a pitching station are respectively located, said cage comprising a plurality of longitudinally spaced apart, arcuately shaped, resilient frame members having opposite ends; at least one elongated flexible cable means for anchoring said frame 9101Q4,tRSHDAT,022,2O403,RES,26 members on said support surface; and a net having a plurality of sleeves disposed therein, said method comprising: spreading an enlarged mat in covering relation over a support surface, said mat having opposite ends and opposite sides, and having a plurality of pockets formed therein along the length thereof and adjacent the opposite sides thereof; inserting one of said frame members into each of said C sleeves in said net such that the ends said frame C members protrude from said sleeve; connecting said cable means to said plurality of frame members; I, inserting the opposite ends of the first of said plurality of frame members into said pockets at one end of said I mat and standing said first frame member into an upright position; anchoring one end of said cable means to said support surface at a position remote from aaid first frame member; t S0*c sequentially inserting the opposite ends of each successive frame member into the respective pockets and standing said frame members into an upright position while maintaining tension on said cable means; and anchoring the other end of said cable means to said support surface at a position remote from the last of said frame mpmbers. 27 L -28
9. 16. The method of claim 15 wherein the steps are reversed to disassemble said batting cage.
10. 17. The method of claim 15 wherein said batting cage can be collapsed by releasing one end of said cable means from the anchored position and removing said frame members from said pockets.
11. 18. The method of claim 17 wherein said collapsing further includes moving said frame members toward the opposite end of said cable means. 0 1 0 t 419. The method of claim 18 wherein said frame members are moved off of said mat and said mat is removed from said covering relation over said support surface.
12. 20. An elongated, portable cage for ball sports comprising: 0 a plurality of arcuately shaped frame members having opposite ends supported by a support surface; a plurality of anchoring means attached directly to said frame members 0 and attachable to said support surface for maintaining said frame members in an upright position; a net secured to said frame members having excess material between said frame members so as to hang loosely therefrom and form an elongated arch-shaped enclosure having opposite sides and opposite ends; and said frame members being laterally and longitudinally flexible and moveable substantially unrestricted by said net and said anchoring means such that said enclosure temporarily deforms upon impact by a ball so as to absorb the forces of impact and thereby cause said ball to fall within said enclosure without substantial ricocheting, said enclosure automatically returning to said arch shape after absorption of said forces.
13. 21. The cage of claim 20 wherein each of said frame members has an apex 910104,RHDAT.022,20403.RE.28 1 ,j -L I rruP- -29- and said opposite ends of each frame assembly diverge downwardly from said apex so that the ball is always deflected downwardly after impacting said frame members.
14. 22. The cage of claim 20 wherein said opposite ends of said frame members are movable with respect to said support surface to allow said enclosure to absorb the impact energy of the ball.
15. 23. The cage of claim 20 wherein said net includes a plurality of sleeves disposed therein and through which said frame members extend.
16. 24. The cage of claim 23 wherein each of said frame members are movable within said sleeve to allow said enclosure to absorb the energy of impact of the ball. t t 0 it The cage of claim 20 further comprising a plurality of boots having an open upper collar for receiving one end of one of said frame members and a bottom surface for frictionally securing said boot member to said support t surface. a 26. The cage of claim 25 wherein said ends of said frame members are received within said collar of said boots so as to be movable within said collar and thereby allow said enclosure to absorb the energy of impact of the ball.
17. 27. The cage of claim 20 wherein said net is excessively large so as to have a perimeter portion which extends beyond the ends of said frame member and is loosely accumulatable on said support surface to allow said enclosure to absorb the impact energy of the ball.
18. 28. The cage of claim 20 wherein said net is light and air permeable such that the inside of said enclosure is exposed to conditions existing on the C910 o4,RSHDAT022-,043.RES,29 -1 E 30 outside of said enclosure without substantial interference by said net.
19. 29. The cage of claim 20 further comprising an enlarged mat for covering the support surface, said mat having securing means thereon for holding each of the ends of said frame members in position on the mat such that said mat is positioned betwen said frame members and said support surface to prevent damage to the support surface. The cage of claim 29 wherein said securing means includes a plurality C f p2Ckets formed in said mat, each of said pockets being adapted to receive one of said ends of said frame members, if 31. An elongated portable batting cage substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the drawings. 0 0 Dated this 4th day of January, 1991 ROBERT LEE WRIGHT By his Patent Attorneys Sg; DAVIES COLLISON 0t 0a 910 104,RSHDAT.022,20403.RES,30