초록 ▼

An improved pitching machine is provided. The invented pitching machine may be capable of consecutively throwing balls that each have a different predetermined trajectory, rotational velocity, and velocity, without resetting the machine. The machine may be capable of simulating a pitch sequence, as

An improved pitching machine is provided. The invented pitching machine may be capable of consecutively throwing balls that each have a different predetermined trajectory, rotational velocity, and velocity, without resetting the machine. The machine may be capable of simulating a pitch sequence, as thrown by a pitcher in a game situation, which may effectively train batters. The machine includes a pair of rotating belts that are vertically spaced and extend parallel to each other and generally horizontally. Once a ball is seized between the belts, the ball is rapidly conveyed by the belts and thrown in a predetermined direction and at a selected velocity. The velocity of the belts may be independently adjusted for imparting a predetermined rotational velocity on balls conveyed by the belts, for throwing balls of different predetermined trajectories. A control system is provided for selecting a pitch type for each ball thrown by the machine. The control system is used to select the velocity of each belt and horizontal and vertical inclination of the belts to enable the machine to throw balls of selected pitch types. The control system can be activated between each ball thrown, so that each consecutive ball thrown may have a different pitch type.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A device for propelling balls comprising:a pair of spaced belt assemblies that extend generally parallel to one another and along a horizontal axis, each belt assembly including a pair of spaced pulleys with a belt having an outer surface that is concave in cross section extending around both pul

1. A device for propelling balls comprising:a pair of spaced belt assemblies that extend generally parallel to one another and along a horizontal axis, each belt assembly including a pair of spaced pulleys with a belt having an outer surface that is concave in cross section extending around both pulleys and generally parallel to the horizontal axis and a motor that drives at least one pulley for rotating the belt; a ball infeed chute positioned to dispose balls into a space between the two belts, the belts seizing a ball disposed in the space to propel the ball; and a control system for adjusting the velocity of at least one of the belts.