PORTABLE PLYO-BOARD

Abstract

Described herein are embodiments of a plyo-board comprising a structural layer formed of a first material, an impact layer coupled to the structural layer and formed of a second material different from the first material, wherein the second material comprises a low-wear material, the impact layer and structural layer define at least an upper panel rotatably coupled to a lower panel, a latch coupled to the upper panel, and a folding ratio defined as a ratio of an area of the plyo-board in a deployed configuration, in which the upper and lower panels are substantially planar, to an area of the plyo-board in a transport configuration, in which the upper panel overlays the lower panel; and the folding ratio is at least two.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally to sports equipment. In particular, the disclosure is to a portable plyo-board.

BACKGROUND

Plyometric drills are becoming a staple for baseball players' warmups and cool- downs to promote arm strength and health. Specifically, more baseball players and coaches are incorporating plyo-ball drills into their training programs to increase arm strength and longevity. Plyo-ball drills involve throwing weighted plyo-balls at a fixed surface. For example, players may complete plyo-drills to warm up their shoulder, rotator cuff, or elbow, depending on how they throw the plyo-ball.

Plyo-balls typically weigh between 100 grams and 1500 grams. Further, plyo-balls usually have a rubber outer layer that can tear if the ball contacts, for example, a chain link fence with protrusions. Accordingly, plyo-drills require a smooth and durable throwing surface to prevent wear and tear to the ball. Some facilities include a fixed plyo-board that has an impact layer made from rubber and a structural layer made from wood.

Players who do not have access to such facilities, however, are unable to consistently integrate plyo-drills into their training and preparation. Although some progress has been made toward movable plyo-boards, current designs are still too heavy and cumbersome for transport or are too light and flimsy for high throwing volume. Some existing designs also include a thick rubber matting that can be difficult to fold or roll, and is therefore undesirable for transportation.

SUMMARY OF DISCLOSURE

Generally, a plyo-board is a throwing surface that absorbs impact from a plyo-ball and prevents damage to the ball. The present disclosure concerns a portable plyo-board having rotatably coupled panels. In a deployed configuration, a user can readily attach the portable plyo-board to a chain link fence or half wall. The user can also fold the portable plyo-board into a transport configuration, where the board is sufficiently compact for a player to carry and store in a vehicle, such as a car. The portable plyo-board can also include a carrying strap, or handles, to facilitate easy handling in the transport configuration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of the front of a portable plyo-board defined by four panels in a deployed configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a rear view of a portable plyo-board defined by four panels in a deployed configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of a portable plyo-board defined by four panels in a deployed configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of a portable plyo-board defined by four panels in a deployed configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of a portable plyo-board in a deployed configuration including an internal hinge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a portable plyo-board defined by three panels in a deployed configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a portable plyo-board defined by two panels in a deployed configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates a portable plyo-board defined by three horizontally arranged panels in a deployed configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Described herein is a portable plyo-board comprising at least two panels that are rotatably coupled and together present a surface against which a ball may be thrown. The plyo-board includes a resilient impact layer, a structural layer, at least one latch to hang the board, and at least one hinge or a similar mechanism to allow the panels to fold. In a deployed configuration the panels are coplanar and form a uniform surface. In the deployed configuration, a user can attach the portable plyo-board to a fence or wall by a latch so the portable plyo-board operates as a fixed plyo-board. Forming the board with multiple panels is advantageous for at least two reasons. First, because the panels are rotatably coupled, a user can fold the board into a compact transport configuration to carry and store the board. The ability of the plyo-board to fold can be characterized by a fraction, or folding ratio, defined as the ratio of an area of the plyo-board in a deployed configuration to an area of the plyo-board in a transport configuration. For example, a folding ratio of 2 means the board can fold in half, as discussed in more detail below.

Additionally, multiple panels, as opposed to a single continuous surface, can advantageously distribute forces upon impact by a ball. Specifically, because the panels are rotatably coupled, the impact force from the ball can translate into kinetic energy. Or, following the law of conservation of energy, a portion of the ball's kinetic energy translates to the kinetic energy of the panels. This occurs because panel rotation is not substantially constrained by, for example, a locking mechanism. The panels can rotate and temporarily displace in response to impact, and thus experience less internal stress relative to a board formed from a single panel. In other words, when a ball impacts the board, the board does not remain rigid but rather, the panels oscillate, like a whip. As a result of the rotatably coupled panels, the plyo-board of the present disclosure is portable and also has improved durability relative to designs that do not include rotatably coupled panels.

The position of the latch can also minimize stress concentrations in the portable-plyo board to improve durability. Specifically, the position of the latch can encourage movement, or oscillation, in response to impact by a ball. For example, the plyo-board can include two latches proximate to an upper edge of the plyo-board. Positioning the latches proximate to an upper edge of the board frees lower portions of the board to displace, or whip, in response to impact by a ball.

The latch can directly engage a fence or wall, or a user can couple the latch to a fence or wall by an intermediary attachment, such as a carabiner. Accordingly, the latch allows users to hang the board and the position of the latch can improve durability by influencing the board's motion and energy distribution upon impact. Examples discussed at the end of this disclosure highlight the ability of the disclosed plyo-board to distribute energy upon impact.

The intermediary attachment can accommodate variations in mounting surfaces. For example, the spacing between links in a chain link fence may vary between facilities. Further, some embodiments may include multiple latches, but some fences may not have links that align with the spacing between the latches. An intermediary attachment, such as a carabiner, can act as an extension to mount the plyo-board on any chain link fence.

In the transport configuration, the panels overlay each other so someone can carry and move the portable plyo-board. The panels can fold via a hinge, or any similar mechanism that allows an individual to fold the panels onto each other. An individual can fold the panels in several possible directions to configure the portable plyo-board for transportation from the deployed configuration, and vice versa. For example, an individual can remove a hanging board by, for example, unclipping carabiners connecting the latches to a chain link fence. The individual can then place the board on the ground so the resilient impact surface contacts the ground. In an embodiment where the plyo-board includes four panels (an upper panel, an upper middle panel, and lower middle panel, and a lower panel), the board may include two latches positioned in the upper half of the upper pane. The board may also include slits in the upper middle panel to receive the latches when the individual folds the upper panel and upper middle panel together. The individual can also fold the lower panel and lower middle panel together, and can then fold the combined lower panel-lower middle panel and upper panel-upper middle panel together. As a result, the individual configured the board for transportation. Individuals can incorporate alternative folding sequences and still configure the board for transportation.

To deploy the portable plyo-board from the transport configuration, an individual can similarly place the folded board on the ground and unfold the panels until the board lays on the ground in the deployed configuration. In some embodiments, the portable plyo-board may include a handle, notch, hook, strap, or similar mechanism by which an individual can lift the board. In such embodiments, an individual could lift the board and then unfold the panels. The portable plyo-board may also include a lock and release mechanism to restrict unfolding in the transport configuration and release the panels with gravity to enter the deployed configuration, respectively. The lock and release mechanism could be, for example, a cable, strap, cord, Velcro, or any similar mechanism that can constrain panel rotation in the transport configuration, but that an individual can release, or unlock, to enter the deployed configuration.

In some embodiments, the panels are flush with each other in the transport configuration. In other embodiments, there can be some space between panels in the transport configuration. For example, as discussed below, some embodiments can include slits to receive latches so the panels lay flush on each other in the transport configuration. Some embodiments, however, may not include slits, and thus the latches may prevent some of the panels from laying flush on each other in the transport configuration. Even if some panels do not lay flush in the transport configuration, the plyo-board is still portable. Specifically, an individual can still readily fold the board into a reduced size and the board is sufficiently light-weight for an individual to carry it.

Depending on the relative sizes of the panels, an individual can fold the board into a compact size. For example, some embodiments may include three panels that are substantially the same size. In such embodiments, the portable plyo-board presents one-third of the surface area in the transport configuration as it does in the deployed configuration, or a folding ratio of three. In other embodiments, the panels can partially overlay each other in the transport configuration. For example, some embodiments may include three panels (an upper panel, a middle panel, and a lower panel) wherein each panel has the same width, but the middle panel is twice as long as the upper panel and lower panel. In such an embodiment, the upper panel may partially overlay the middle panel, and the lower panel may overlay the remaining half of the middle panel in the transport configuration. Accordingly, the portable plyo-board would have a surface area in the transport configuration that is approximately equal to the surface area of the middle panel in the deployed configuration. Such a plyo-board would have a folding ratio of 2. Additionally, embodiments may include panels that completely overlap each other and other panels that partially overlap each other. Because the panels fold together, an individual can readily fold the portable-plyo board into a size that is sufficiently compact for a person to carry.

Together, the weight and compact size of the disclosed plyo-board in the transport configuration allow an individual to carry the board and place it in, for instance, a bus storage compartment, a truck bed, or a car trunk without significant disassembly. Examples discussed at the end of this disclosure highlight the portability of the plyo-board disclosed herein.

Further, each panel can include a resilient impact layer and a structural layer. Hereinafter the resilient layer is “impact layer.” The structural layer is behind and supports the impact layer and can be thinner than structural layers in plyo-boards lacking folding panels. As described, the folding panels and the board's freedom to oscillate, or whip, in response to impact reduces stresses concentrations and thus increases durability. As a result, the plyo-board can include a relatively thin structural layer and the board can be lighter than plyo-boards offering comparable durability. The resilient impact layer and structural layer can be coupled by screws, adhesives, or any combination therein. The resilient impact layer can be formed from a low-wear material to offer a smooth throwing surface that mitigates damage to plyo-balls. Thus, the portable plyo-board of the present disclosure offers a sufficiently durable throwing surface that is light enough for a user to easily carry and transport.

Together, the resilient impact layer, structural layer, rotatably coupled panels, and latches form a durable throwing surface that mitigates damage to plyo-balls, and that individuals can readily transport, install, and use at any facility having a fence or wall. These features form the portable plyo-board disclosed herein. Although the following discussion of figures and embodiments may focus on some features (impact layer, structural layer, rotatably coupled panels, and latches) in isolation, each feature applies to every disclosed embodiment.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, the present disclosure includes a portable plyo-board 1 that can include panels. In some embodiments, each of the panels is substantially the same length and width. In alternative embodiments, the panels can comprise distinct lengths and/or widths. Each panel can include a resilient impact layer 10 and a structural layer 11.

The portable plyo-board may include any number of panels, including 2, or 3, or 4, or 5, or 6, or 7, or 8, or 9, or 10, panels. As shown in FIG. 1, the portable plyo-board 1 can include an upper panel 21, an upper middle panel 22, a lower middle panel 23, and lower panel 24.

As shown in FIG. 2, the upper panel 21 can be rotatably coupled to the upper middle panel 22 through an upper hinge system 3 comprising at least one hinge. Similarly, the lower panel 24 can be rotatably coupled to the lower middle panel 23 through a lower hinge system 4 comprising at least one hinge. The upper hinge system 3 may comprise a first outer hinge 31, middle hinge 32, and a second outer hinge 33. Similarly, the lower hinge system 4 may comprise a first outer hinge 41, a middle hinge 42, and a second outer hinge 43. In some embodiments, the hinges are standard metal hinges. In alternative embodiments, the hinges, or similar mechanism allowing the panels to rotate, may be formed from plastic, composite material, or polymer.

As shown in FIG. 3, the upper middle panel 22 and lower middle panel 23 can be rotatably coupled through a middle hinge system 5 comprising at least one hinge. Like the upper hinge system 3 and lower hinge system 4, the middle hinge system 5 may comprise a first outer hinge 51, a middle hinge 52, and a second outer hinge 53. Although the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 includes panels coupled by hinge systems comprising three hinges, alternative embodiments may include hinge systems that include more or fewer hinges. For example, each hinge system may comprise two hinges. As another example, the upper hinge system 3 may comprise four hinges, the lower hinge system 4 may comprise three hinges, and the middle hinge system 5 may comprise 2 hinges. As shown in FIG. 3, each hinge can include a first leaf engaging a first panel and a second leaf engaging a second panel. The leaves of each hinge can be internally fixed within the structural layer 11, fixed between the structural layer and the impact layer 10, fixed to the outer surface of the structural layer, fixed to the outer surface of the impact layer, or any combination therein.

As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the middle hinge system 5 may oppose the upper hinge system 3 and lower hinge system 4. As a result of this configuration, the portable plyo-board can fold for compact storage. Specifically, the upper panel 21 and upper middle panel 22 may fold so the structural layer 11 of the upper panel overlays the structural layer of the upper middle panel. Similarly, the lower panel 24 and lower middle panel 23 can fold so the structural layer 11 of the lower panel overlays the structural layer of the lower middle panel. Also, because the middle hinge system 5 opposes the upper hinge system 3 and lower hinge system 4, the upper middle panel 22 and lower middle panel 23 can fold so the impact layer 10 of the upper middle panel overlays the impact layer of the lower middle panel. The opposing arrangement of the middle hinge system 5 relative to the upper hinge system 3 and lower hinge system 4 allows a user to fold the board 1 into a compact form for transportation. If the middle hinge system 5 was, for example, on the same side of the board 1 as the upper hinge system 3 and lower hinge system 4, the panels could interfere with each other when a user folds the board.

In some embodiments, the middle hinge system 5 can facilitate rotation so the structural layer 11 of the upper middle panel 22 and the structural layer of the lower middle panel 23 overlay each other in the transport configuration. In such embodiments, the upper hinge system 3 and lower hinge system 4 can oppose the middle hinge system 5 so the impact layer 10 of the upper panel 21 overlays the impact layer of the upper middle panel 22, and the impact layer of the lower middle panel 23 overlays the impact layer of the lower panel 24 in the transport configuration.

In other embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 5, the hinge systems can include internal hinges wherein the leaves of each hinge are secured inside panels. As a result, the panels can rotate so the impact layer 10 of the panels or the structural layer 11 of the panels overlay each other in the transport configuration. Although there may not be opposing hinge systems in embodiments comprising internal hinge systems, a user can still fold the panels in opposing directions to configure the board for transportation. Embodiments comprising internal hinge systems can increase the surface area of the impact layer 10 exposed to a ball. This reduces the likelihood that a ball contacts a hinge, which could damage the ball or the board, instead of the intended impact layer.

As shown in FIG. 6, the portable plyo-board 100 can include three panels. Specifically, the plyo-board 100 can include an upper panel 121 a middle panel 122 and a lower panel 123. The upper panel 121 and middle panel 122 can be rotatably coupled by an upper hinge system 103. Additionally, the middle panel 122 and lower panel 123 can be rotatably coupled by a lower hinge system 104. Like the hinge systems discussed relative to FIGS. 1-3, the upper hinge system 123 can oppose the lower hinge system 124 so the panels do not interfere with each other when a user folds the board into the transport configuration.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 7, the plyo-board 200 can include two panels. Specifically, the plyo-board 200 can include an upper panel 221 and a lower panel 223. The upper panel 221 and lower panel 223 can be rotatably coupled by a middle hinge system 225 so a user can fold the board into the transport configuration.

The panel sizes can depend on the number of panels forming the board and the overall size of the board. Further, the number of panels can alter the performance characteristics of the board. For example, a two-panel embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7 can include the same impact layer surface area in the deployed configuration as a four-panel embodiment, such as the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-3. In this example, a panel forming part of the two-panel embodiment could present twice the surface area as a panel forming part of the four-panel embodiment. Because the two-panel embodiments can present the same impact layer surface area with fewer parts, the two-panel embodiments can be advantageous for manufacturing. Conversely, a user can fold the four-panel embodiment into a more compact transport configuration.

Additionally, a four-panel configuration may be more durable because it has more rotatably coupled panels. As discussed above and in more detail below, the impact force from a ball can cause the board to oscillate, or whip, because the rotatable coupled panels are not substantially constrained, thereby reducing stress within the panels,

In some embodiments, such as that shown in FIG. 8, the plyo-board 300 can include a first panel 321, a second panel 322, and a third panel 323. In contrast with the embodiments described above, the panels forming the plyo-board 300 are rotatably coupled to fold along a longitudinal axis instead of a lateral axis. In other words, the panels are coupled horizontally. Specifically, the first panel 321 can be rotatably coupled to the second panel 322 by a first hinge system 303, and the third panel 323 can be rotatably coupled to the second panel by a second hinge system 304. As shown, the first hinge system 303 and the second hinge system 304 can include internal hinges. In some embodiments, the first hinge system 303 can oppose the second hinge system 304.

Embodiments like the one shown in FIG. 8 can also provide a plyo-board that a user can readily fold and deploy, while also offering sufficient durability. For example, when a user throws a ball near the middle of the plyo-board 300 attached to a fence, the first panel 321 and third panel 323 may rotate off the fence that the board is attached to. Specifically, because the panels are not constrained, the first panel 321 and third panel 323 can rotate inward. This rotation, or collapsing motion, indicates that the kinetic energy from the ball translated into kinetic energy of the panels. As energy cannot be created or destroyed, converting the ball's kinetic energy into kinetic energy of the panels reduces the amount of energy remaining to generate stress concentrations upon impact.

For instance, if the panels were constrained and rigid upon impact, the change in momentum of the ball, or impulse, would create localized areas of high stress within the board that could lead to failure, or permanent deformation, after repeated throws. The plyo-board of the present disclosure, however, allocates a large portion of the change in kinetic energy of the ball to a change in kinetic energy of the panels, thereby reducing stress in the board relative to a rigid board. This analysis of energy distribution similarly applies to previously discussed embodiments where the panels are coupled vertically, as opposed to horizontally.

Accordingly, the rotatably coupled panels not only allow a user to fold the board into a compact transport configuration, but also minimize stresses in the panels. Similarly, the latch not only allows a user to attach the board to a fence but can also encourage kinetic energy in place of stress within the panels to improve durability.

Specifically, referring to FIG. 2, the portable plyo-board I can include a first latch 6 and a second latch 7 coupled to the structural layer 11 of the upper panel 21. The latch may be a ring, hook, L-bracket, rod, or any other similar structure that allows a user to couple the plyo-board to, for example, a chain-link fence. The latch may be fixed in place by a screw, adhesive, or any other similar mechanism.

Because the first latch 6 and the second latch 7 couple the plyo-board I to a fence near the top of the board, the lower panels have the freedom to move upon impact. For example, when a player throws a ball near the center of the board, the impact from the ball may cause the lower panel 24 to oscillate, or move away from the fence or wall. This conversion of the plyo-ball's kinetic energy into kinetic energy of the lower panel reduces stress concentrations in the lower panel 24 and thereby increases durability relative to embodiments wherein the lower panel's movement is restricted.

Additionally, as shown in FIG. 2, the portable plyo-board comprises a first slit 8 and second slit 9 in the structural layer 11 to receive the first latch 6 and second latch 7. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the first slit 8 and second slit 9 are formed in the upper middle panel and positioned to receive the first latch 6 and the second latch 7, respectively, when the upper panel 21 and the upper middle panel 22 fold together. Specifically, when a user folds the upper panel 21 over the upper middle panel 22, the first latch 6 and the second latch 7 recess into the first slit 8 and the second slit 9, respectively, so the upper middle panel 22 and upper panel 21 can lay flush against each other in the transport configuration.

The slits can be defined by a circular, square, rectangular, triangular, oval, or any other cross-section suitable to receive the latch. The slit can extend through the structural layer 11 and impact layer 10, or can just extend partially through the structural layer. The slits 10 and 8 and 9 can be contained within the structural layer 11 or can extend through into the impact layer 10. The depth of the slit can depend on the size of the latch. In some embodiments, the plyo-board 1 does not have slits to receive the latches. In such embodiments, the latches 6 and 7 can fold onto the structural layer 11 of the upper panel 21, so the upper panel 21 and upper middle panel 22 are nearly flush in the transport configuration. In other embodiments, the latches 6 and 7 do not fold, and will lay against the upper middle panel 22 in the transport configuration. In other embodiments, the latches 6 and 7 can be separate from the plyo-board 1, and a user can install the latches onto the board in the deployed configuration. In such embodiments, a user can remove the latches before folding the board into the transport configuration.

As shown in FIG. 4, the latches 6 and 7 can be an eye-ring or eye-bolt. In such embodiments, an intermediary attachment, such as a carabiner, can couple the latches 6 and 7 to, for example, a chain link fence. In other embodiments, the latches 6 and 7 can directly couple the plyo-board 1 to a fence or wall. In such embodiments, the latches can be an L-bracket, hook, or any other structure suitable to couple the plyo-board 1 to a fence or wall. In an embodiment where a user can install and remove the latches, the board may include a slit in the upper panel 21 to receive the temporary latch. In such embodiments, the latch can be, for example, a hook, a carabiner, or a strap that a user can tie to the board and fence.

As discussed earlier, each panel comprises a resilient impact layer 10 and a structural layer 11. Specifically, the impact layer 10 can be formed from a low-wear material, as described below. As a result, the impact layer 10 mitigates damage to a plyo-ball during impact. The structural layer 11 supports the impact layer 10 to mitigate deformation and degradation of the impact layer. The impact layer 10 protects the ball while the structural layer 11 protects the impact layer.

The impact layer 10 and structural layer 11 can be engaged via an adhesive, screws, or any other mechanism acceptable to join two surfaces together. In some embodiments, the structural layer 11 may be formed from wood and the impact layer 10 may be formed from a low-wear material such as rubber. Alternatively, the structural layer may be formed from composite material or metal. Additionally, the low-wear material forming the impact layer can include Styrofoam, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE), or polymer-based materials generally.

The size of the portable plyo-board can depend on specific player needs or environmental considerations, such as the space available space to attach the board. In some embodiments, the portable plyo-board weighs less than 50 lbs. Specifically, the portable plyo-board may weigh less than 45 lbs., less than 40 lbs., less than 35 lbs., less than 30 lbs., less than 25 lbs., or less than 20 lbs.

Also, a perimeter casing can surround the panels. The perimeter casing can be formed of rubber, Styrofoam, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE), or polymer-based materials generally. The perimeter casing can protect the panels from damage near the corners and edges of the board, including the decoupling of the impact layer and structural layer.

Additionally, a user can wrap a carrying strap around the board in the transport configuration to easily carry the board. The carrying strap can be formed from, for example, nylon. For instance, in the transport configuration, a user can feed the portable plyo-board through two slipknot loops, and can then pick up the board via the carrying strap. When the user picks up the folded board by the carrying strap, they can tighten the slipknot loops to secure the board within the carrying strap. In some embodiments, the carrying strap may be permanently coupled to the portable plyo-board. In additional embodiments, the portable plyo-board can include handles that facilitate easy transportation. Together, the portable plyo-board, perimeter casing, carrying strap, case, or similar device, can define a system. Specifically, the portable plyo-board system can provide individuals a means to easily transport the board to various locations, such as different baseball fields or stadiums.

EXAMPLES

Setup and Storage Timing

In a first example, the portable plyo-board had a length of approximately 4 feet, and a width of approximately 3 feet in the deployed configuration. Four rotatably coupled panels (upper panel, upper middle panel, lower middle panel, and lower panel) formed the portable plyo-board such that the board had a length of approximately 1 foot and a width of approximately 3 feet in the transport configuration. The board also weighed approximately 40 lbs. The board included two latches defined by eye hooks attached to the upper half of the upper panel's structural layer. Additionally, a nylon carrying strap surrounded the board in the transport configuration.

In this first example, three college baseball players timed how long it took them to remove the board from the carrying strap, attach carabiner clips to the latches, unfold the board, and attach the board to a chain link fence. The players could attach the carabiner clips before or after unfolding the board. The players also timed how long it took them to remove the board from the fence, fold it into the transport configuration, wrap the carrier strap around the board, and then lift the folded board onto their shoulders. Although the players used a carrying strap in this example, alternative carrying mechanisms, such as handles, could be integrated without significantly increasing setup or storage times. Each player set up and stored the board 10 times. Accordingly, the players completed a total of 30 timed trials for setup and storage.

TABLE 1
Setup Time
Fastest	Slowest	Average
Setup Time	Setup Time	Setup Time
(Seconds)	(Seconds)	(Seconds)
16.6	29.1	22.4

TABLE 2
Storage Time
Fastest	Slowest	Average
Storage Time	Storage Time	Storage Time
(Seconds)	(Seconds)	(Seconds)
30.2	41.5	35.5

These results demonstrate that individuals can readily deploy and install the portable plyo-board described herein in less than a minute, or even less than 30 seconds. Such a speedy installation is possible because the plyo-board does not have a substantial supporting structure that requires significant assembly before use. In this example, the players did not need to screw components together prior and did not need to complete any assembly beyond attaching two carabiners to the latches and fence, before using the board.

Further, it was so easy for the players to remove the board from the fence and carry it, that they were also able to complete the storage task in less than a minute, and in some cases slightly more than 30 seconds. Such quick storage is possible because the board readily folds without significant disassembly and is sufficiently lightweight that an individual can quickly wrap a strap around the board in the transport configuration and begin carrying it on his or her shoulder.

By contrast, existing plyo-boards are typically permanently fixed within a stadium or training facility such that individuals cannot readily move the plyo-board. Even if those plyo-boards are not complicated to install, they are too heavy and too large for an individual to move and do not fold into a smaller size. Further, existing plyo-boards that are mobile typically include substantial structures, such as a supporting base, and wheels. Accordingly, even those boards that are somewhat mobile are not portable like the disclosed plyo-board because they require significant assembly or disassembly to transport in, for example, a vehicle. To readily transport a mobile plyo-board installed on a structural base having wheels, an individual would likely need to remove the board, and detach the wheels from the base so the entire assembly can fit in a car trunk. This would likely take between three and five minutes for an experienced individual, and more than five minutes for a new user. Further, existing plyo-boards that are lightweight and easy to install are not as durable as the plyo-board disclosed herein at least because they do not have a structural layer or rotatably coupled panels. Specifically, such “plyo-mats” are not as durable as the combination of the structural layer, impact layer, rotatably coupled panels, and latches of the present disclosure.

Force Absorption Testing

In a second example, three college baseball players attached the plyo-board described in the first example to a chain link fence and threw a five-ounce (141 grams) plyo-ball at the center of the plyo-board. Specifically, each player threw the ball 20 times at speeds between 40 and 45 miles per hour to test the ability of the plyo-board to absorb energy upon impact. The players measured the distance that the plyo-ball traveled after bouncing off the plyo-board and compared that distance with the distance resulting from throwing the ball at a chain link fence and a brick wall.

TABLE 3
Example 1 Rebound Distances
	Average Rebound	Maximum Rebound	Minimum Rebound
Throwing Surface	Distance (Inches)	Distance (Inches)	Distance (Inches)
Portable Plyo-Board	9.8	12.5	8.5
Chain-link Fence	10.6 (8% increase)	14.0 (12% increase)	9.5 (12% increase)
Brick Wall	15.9 (62% increase)	20.5 (64% increase)	13.0 (53% increase)

The test results demonstrate that the rotatably coupled panels and latches positioned in the upper half of the upper middle panel allow the board to convert impact force from the plyo-ball into kinetic energy applied to the panels. Per the law of conservation of energy, the plyo-ball does not travel as far after impacting the portable plyo-board relative to the chain link fence and brick wall. As discussed, this occurs because the panels are rotatably coupled and are free to rotate, or oscillate, upon impact.

Therefore, in addition to being portable, the plyo-board is sufficiently durable because its tendency to convert impact force into kinetic energy reduces stresses within the board that can cause permanent deformation. By contrast, a plyo-board with similar dimensions and materials attached to a chain link fence but formed and installed as a rigid board without freely rotating panels, would produce a higher rebound distance. Specifically, the rebound distances would be closer to those measured for the chain-link fence. Accordingly, such a rigid board would be more susceptible to permanent deformation caused by repeated impact by a plyo-ball than the portable plyo-board described herein.

Plyo-Ball Damage Observations

After completing the tests described above, the three college baseball players noted damage to the plyo-ball. Specifically, after throwing the plyo-ball at the portable plyo-board, the players did not notice any visible marks on the ball. After throwing the plyo-ball at the chain link fence, however, the players noticed a slit on the ball. Further, after throwing the plyo-ball at the brick wall, the players noticed at least five scuff marks on the ball. These observations demonstrate that the portable plyo-ball mitigates damage to the plyo-ball.

Together, these examples and observations demonstrate that players can quickly deploy and store the portable plyo-board described herein. Further, while the plyo-board is portable, it is also sufficiently durable and is a reliable throwing surface that prevents damage to plyo-balls.

While the above examples may be described in connection with a board for use by baseball players throwing a plyo-ball, the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be applicable to other sports and balls.

Claims

1. A plyo-board, comprising: a structural layer formed of a first material;an impact layer coupled to the structural layer and formed of a second material different from the first material, wherein the second material comprises a low-wear material;the impact layer and structural layer define at least an upper panel rotatably coupled to a lower panel;a latch coupled to the upper panel;a folding ratio defined as a ratio of an area of the plyo-board in a deployed configuration, in which the upper and lower panels are substantially planar, to an area of the plyo-board in a transport configuration, in which the upper panel overlays the lower panel; and the folding ratio is at least two.

2. The plyo-board of claim 1, further comprising at least one slit sized and located to receive the latch in the transport configuration.

3. The plyo-board of claim 1, wherein the second material is selected from a group of materials consisting of rubber, Styrofoam, Polyvinyl Chloride, or Thermoplastic Elastomer.

4. The plyo-board of claim 3, wherein the first material is selected from a group of materials consisting of wood, metal, carbon fiber, or fiberglass.

5. The plyo-board of claim 1, wherein the latch is fixed to the upper half of the upper panel.

6. The plyo-board of claim 1, wherein the folding ratio is at least 3.

7. The plyo-board of claim 1, wherein the plyo-board weighs less than 50 pounds.

8. The plyo-board of claim 1, wherein the plyo-board has an area less than or equal to 12 square feet in the deployed configuration.

9. A plyo-board comprising: a structural layer formed of a first material;an impact layer coupled to the structural layer and formed of a second material different from the first material, wherein the second material comprises a low-wear material;the impact layer and structural layer define at least an upper panel and a lower panel coupled by at least one hinge;a folding ratio of the plyo-board defined as a ratio of an area of the plyo-board in a deployed configuration, in which the upper and lower panels are substantially planar, to an area of the plyo-board in a transport configuration, in which the upper panel overlays the lower panel, wherein the folding ratio is at least two;a first latch removably coupled to the upper panel and configured for insertion into a first slit formed in the lower panel when the plyo-board is in the transport configuration; anda second latch removably coupled to the upper panel and configured for insertion into a second slit formed in the lower panel when the plyo-board is in the transport configuration.

10. The plyo-board of claim 9, further comprising a longitudinal axis extending through a geometric center of the plyo-board, wherein the plyo-board is approximately symmetrical about the longitudinal axis.

11. The plyo-board of claim 9, wherein the first slit and second slit are defined by a shape selected from a group of shapes consisting of a circle, a semi-circle, an oval, a parallelogram, a trapezoid, or a hexagon.

12. The plyo-board of claim 9, wherein the hinge comprises a first leaf engaging the upper panel and a second leaf engaging the lower panel.

13. The plyo-board of claim 12 wherein the first leaf and second leaf are internally fixed to the structural layer.

14. The plyo-board of claim 12, wherein the first leaf and second leaf are fixed between the structural layer and the impact layer.

15. The plyo-board of claim 12, wherein the first leaf and second leaf are fixed to an outer surface of the impact layer.

16. A plyo-board comprising: a structural layer formed of a first material;an impact layer coupled to the structural layer and formed of a second material different from the first material, wherein the second material comprises a low-wear material;the impact layer and structural layer define an upper panel, an upper middle panel, a lower middle panel, and a lower panel, wherein: the upper panel, the upper middle panel, the lower middle panel, and the lower panel are substantially planar;the upper panel and upper middle panel are rotatably coupled by an upper hinge system, the upper middle panel and lower middle panel are rotatably coupled by a middle hinge system, and the lower middle panel and lower panel are rotatably coupled by a lower hinge system;the upper hinge system comprises at least one hinge, the middle hinge system comprises at least one hinge, and the lower hinge system comprises at least one hinge; andthe middle hinge system opposes the upper hinge system and lower hinge system;a first latch coupled to the upper panel and configured for insertion into a first slit formed in the upper middle panel when the plyo-board is in a transport configuration;a second latch coupled to the upper panel and configured for insertion into a second slit formed in the upper middle panel when the plyo-board is in the transport configuration; andthe upper panel and upper middle panel substantially overlay each other, the upper middle panel and lower middle panel substantially overlay each other, and the lower middle panel and lower panel substantially overlay each other in the transport configuration so the surface area of the plyo-board in the transport configuration is approximately one-fourth the surface area of the plyo-board in the deployed configuration.

17. The plyo-board of claim 16, wherein the latch is selected from the group consisting of an eye-ring, an eye-bolt, an L-bracket, or a hook.

18. The plyo-board of claim 16, wherein the upper hinge system, the middle hinge system, and the lower hinge system each comprise at least two hinges.

19. The plyo-board of claim 16, further comprising a first intermediary attachment coupled to the first latch, and a second intermediary attachment coupled to the second latch.

20. The plyo-board of claim 16, wherein the plyo-board weighs less than 45 lbs.