| |
| United States Patent
|
7,101,186 |
| Hughes |
September 5, 2006 |
Dally practicing systems
Abstract
A dally practicing system which simulates the conditions of
roping a steer with relative safety. The portable dallying practice
system takes up slack in a rope without applying excessive tension
which could injure the user, provides a clutch system which allows
for convenient manipulation of the tension, and provides a safety
release mechanism which automatically releases the tension if the
tension becomes excessive.
| Inventors: |
Hughes; Gabriel T.
(Avondale, AZ) |
| Appl. No.:
|
10/813,738 |
| Filed: |
March 30, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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60459434 |
Mar., 2003 |
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60492890 |
Aug., 2003 |
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| Current U.S.
Class: |
434/247 ;
434/225 |
| Current
International Class: |
A63B
69/04 (20060101) |
| Field of
Search: |
119/794,795,796,797,798,839,805,789 434/247,225
273/338,336,337,339 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent
Documents
Primary Examiner: Suhol; Dmitry
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
Stoneman Law Offices, Ltd. Stoneman; Martin L. Erlick;
Benjamin K.
Parent Case Text
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
The present application is related to prior provisional application
Ser. No. 60/459,434, filed Mar. 31, 2003, entitled "DALLY PRACTICING
SYSTEM", and, prior provisional application Ser. No. 60/492,890,
filed Aug. 6, 2003, entitled "DALLY PRACTICING SYSTEM" from both of
which priority is claimed, and the contents of which are
incorporated herein by these references and are not admitted to be
prior art with respect to the present invention by the mention in
this cross-reference section.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A dally training system, relating to use by a dallyer sitting on
a saddle that comprises a saddle born, for safe dally-practicing,
near a substantially fixed object, using at least one dally rope
positioned in front of the dallyer, said dally training system
comprising, in combination: a) line means for providing at least one
selectably retractable line; b) tension means for controllably
applying at least one tension force to said line means for
selectably retracting said line means; c) casing means for encasing
said tension means; and d) attachment means for attaching said dally
training system to the substantially fixed object; e) wherein said
tension means comprises at least one spring; f) wherein said line
means comprises such at least one dally rope; g) wherein said at
least one dally rope is structured and arranged to permit dallying
around the at least one saddle horn by the dallyer sitting on the
saddle; saddle horn means for holding said line means fixable in
adjacent position to such dallyer when such dallyer is using said
line means in such dally-practicing.
2. The dally training system, according to claim 1, further
comprising a) first connection means for connecting said line means
to such at least one dally rope; b) wherein said attachment means
comprises swivel means for swiveling.
3. A dally training system, relating to use by a dallier sitting on
a saddle that comprises a saddle horn, for safe dally-practicing,
near a substantially fixed object, using at least one dally rope
positioned in front of the dallyer, comprising, in combination: a)
at least one line structured and arranged to provide at least one
selectably retractable line; b) at least one tensioner structured
and arranged to i) controllably apply at least one tension force to
said at least one line; and ii) selectably retract said at least one
line; iii) wherein said at least one tensioner comprises at least
one reel adapted to wind and unwind said at least one line; and c)
at least one attacher adapted to attach said at least one tensioner
to the substantially fixed object; d) wherein said at least one line
comprises such at least one dally rope e) wherein said at least one
dally rope is structured and arranged to permit dallying around the
at least one saddle horn by the dallyer sitting on the saddle;
saddle horn means for holding said line means fixable in adjacent
position to such dallyer when such dallyer is using said line means
in such dally-practicing.
4. The dally training system, according to claim 3, further
comprising a) at least one first connector adapted to connect said
at least one line to such at least one dally rope; b) wherein said
at least one attacher comprises at least one swivel.
5. A daily training method, relating to safe daily-practicing, near
a substantially fixed object, using at least one dallyer's rope, the
dallying steps to be used by a dallyer, comprising, in combination:
a) providing at least one line; b) providing at least one reel
structured and arranged to apply at least one tension force to such
at least one line for retracting such at least one line; c)
providing at least one swivel-attachment to attach such at least one
reel to the substantially fixed object; d) connecting such at least
one reel to the substantially fixed object; e) connecting such at
least one line to such at least one dallyer's rope; and f) dallying
using said at least one dallyer's rope.
6. A dally training system, relating to use by a dallyer, for safe
dally-practicing the steps of dallying, near a fixed object, using
at least one saddle horn and using at least one dally rope,
comprising, in combination: a) at least one line; b) at least one
reel structured and arranged to apply at least one tension force to
said at least one line such that said at least one line is
retractable; c) at least one attacher structured and arranged to
attach said at least one reel to the fixed object; i) wherein said
at least one attacher comprises at least one swivel; and d) at least
one saddle horn to hold said at least one line substantially
adjacent to such dallyer when such dallyer is using said at least
one line in such dally-practicing: e) wherein said at least one line
comprises such at least one dally rope f) wherein said at least one
dally rope is structured and arranged to permit dallying around the
at least one saddle horn.
7. The dally training system, according to claim 6, wherein said at
least one dally rope comprises at least one free end which can be
coiled in at least one band of the dallyer.
8. The dally training system, according to claim 6, further
comprising at least one first connector to connect said at least one
line to said at least one dally rope.
9. The dally training system, according to claim 6, wherein said at
least one reel comprises at least one asymmetric protrusion adapted
to provide irregular retraction of said at least one line.
10. The dally training system, according to claim 6, wherein said at
least one tensioner comprises at least one spring.
11. The dally training system, according to claim 6, wherein said at
least one tensioner comprises at least one clutch system structured
and arranged to allow the dallyer to selectably control tension in
said at least one line.
12. The dally training system, according to claim 6, wherein said at
least one line comprises at least one safety release.
13. The dally training system, according to claim 12, wherein said
at least one safety release comprises at least one hook and loop
material.
14. The dally training system, according to claim 6, further
comprising at least one anti-kinking element structured and arranged
to assist anti-kinking in said at least one line.
15. The dally training system, according to claim 14, wherein said
at least one anti-kinking element comprises at least one swivel.
16. A dally training system, relating to use by a dallyer, for safe
dally-practicing, near a fixed object, using at least one saddle
horn and using at least one dally rope, comprising, in combination:
a) at least one line; and b) at least one tensioner adapted to apply
at least one tension force to said at least one line such that said
at least one line is retractable; c) wherein said at least one
tensioner comprises at least one reel adapted to wind and unwind
said at least one line; d) wherein said at least one reel comprises
at least one eccentric portion adapted to provide irregular
retraction of said at least one line; e) wherein said at least one
eccentric portion comprises at least one protrusion; f) wherein said
at least one line comprises at least one dally rope; and g) at least
one anti-kinking element structured and arranged to assist
anti-kinking in said at least one line.
17. The dally training system, according to claim 16, wherein said
at least one eccentric portion comprises exactly one protrusion.
18. The dally training system, according to claim 17, wherein said
at least one reel comprises at least one case structured and
arranged to house said at least one reel.
19. The dally training system, according to claim 18, wherein said
at least one line further comprises at least one stopper structured
and arranged to prevent at least one end of said at least one line
from being pulled inside of said at least one case.
20. The dally training system, according to claim 16, wherein said
at least one anti-kinking element comprises at least one swivel.
21. The dally training system, according to claim 16, wherein said
at least one line comprises at least one safety release.
Description
BACKGROUND
This invention relates to providing systems for assisting a user in
practicing dallying. Dallying is the act of wrapping a rope around
the horn of a saddle. Dallying is one of the fundamental skills
involved in roping which many cowboys and cowgirls need to practice
for roping competition in tournaments, rodeos, etc. It is important
for such cowboys and cowgirls to achieve a high level of skill at
dallying. Speed and proper technique can give a competitive
advantage and improper dallying can result in serious injuries. For
example, team roping is a timed contest in a rodeo that features two
cowpersons competing together: a "header" and a "heeler". The header
ropes the steer's head, dallies (wraps the end of the rope around
the saddle horn) and pulls the steer with the rope. The heeler then
ropes the back legs of the steer, dallies, and stops his horse. When
the heeler catches and dallies and both ropes are tight, the header
stops and turns his horse to face the heeler, and the clock is
stopped. The team with the fastest time wins the competition.
It is especially important for the heeler to dally soon after roping
the steer for at least two reasons: 1) to stop the steer from
pulling the rope out of the heeler's hands; and 2) to complete the
run and stop the clock as fast as possible. The force the steer
exerts on the rope can make dallying difficult. The heeler must
judge the slack in the rope and how quickly the slack is being taken
up. The heeler must also judge whether and how much rope to let slip
to create more slack, if necessary.
The heeler's/dallyer's fingers can be smashed or even ripped off by
the tension in the rope if dallying is not accomplished properly.
For these reasons it is important to practice the technique of
dallying--and to practice it safely.
OBJECTS AND FEATURES OF THE INVENTION
A primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide
dally practicing systems. A further object and feature of the
present invention is to provide a system that assists a user in
practicing dallying.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system that is relatively safe. It is a further
object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system
that has a safety release.
It is yet a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system a tensioner for retracting a dally training
line. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system having adjustable tension. It is yet a further
object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system
having irregular and/or eccentric tension. It is yet a further
object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system
having a tensioner attachable to a fixed object.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system that comprises a safe method of dallying
training. It is a further object and feature of the present
invention to provide such a system that simulates the conditions of
competition to provide more valuable training.
A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and handy.
Other objects and features of this invention will become apparent
with reference to the following descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a dally training system, for use by a dallyer, for safe
dally-practicing, near a substantially fixed object, using at least
one saddle horn and using at least one dally rope, comprising, in
combination: line means for providing at least one selectably
retractable line; tension means for controllably applying at least
one tension force to such line for selectably retracting such line
means; and at least one such dally rope. Moreover, it provides such
a dally training system wherein line means comprises such at least
one such dally rope. Additionally, it provides such a dally training
system further comprising first connection means for connecting such
line means to such at least one such dally rope. Also, it provides
such a dally training system further comprising second connection
means for connecting such tension means to the fixed object. In
addition, it provides such a dally training system further
comprising second connection means for connecting such tension means
to the fixed object. And, it provides such a dally training system
further comprising saddle horn means fixable in adjacent position to
such dallyer when such dallyer is using such line means in such
dally-practicing.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a dally training system for safe user-practicing,
near a substantially fixed object, using at least one user's rope,
the dallying steps to be used by a user, comprising, in combination:
line means for providing at least one retractable line; tension
means for applying at least one tension force to such line for
retracting such line means; and saddle horn means for dallying
substantially adjacent to such dallyer when such dallyer is using
such line means in such dally-practicing. Further, it provides such
a dally training system wherein line means comprises such at least
one such dally rope. Even further, it provides such a dally training
system further comprising first connection means for connecting such
line means to such at least one such dally rope. Moreover, it
provides such a dally training system further comprising second
connection means for connecting such tension means to the fixed
object. Additionally, it provides such a dally training system
further comprising second connection means for connecting such
tension means to the fixed object.
In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a dally training system, relating to use by a dallyer, for
safe dally-practicing, near a substantially fixed object, using at
least one saddle horn and using at least one dally rope, comprising,
in combination: line means for providing at least one selectably
retractable line; tension means for controllably applying at least
one tension force to such line for selectably retracting such line
means; and such at least one dally rope. Moreover, it provides such
a dally training system, wherein such line means comprises such at
least one dally rope. Additionally, it provides such a dally
training system, further comprising first connection means for
connecting such line means to such at least one dally rope. Also, it
provides such a dally training system, further comprising second
connection means for connecting such tension means to the
substantially fixed object. In addition, it provides such a dally
training system, further comprising second connection means for
connecting such tension means to the substantially fixed object.
And, it provides such a dally training system further comprising
saddle horn means for holding such line means fixable in adjacent
position to such dallyer when such dallyer is using such line means
in such dally-practicing.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a dally training system, relating to use by a
dallyer, for safe dally-practicing, near a substantially fixed
object, using at least one saddle horn and using at least one dally
rope, comprising, in combination: at least one line structured and
arranged to provide at least one selectably retractable line; at
least one tensioner structured and arranged to controllably apply at
least one tension force to such at least one line; and selectably
retract such at least one line; and such at least one dally rope.
Further, it provides such a dally training system, wherein such at
least one line comprises such at least one dally rope. Even further,
it provides such a dally training system, further comprising at
least one first connector adapted to connect such at least one line
to such at least one dally rope. Moreover, it provides such a dally
training system, further comprising at least one second connector
adapted to connect such at least one tensioner to the fixed object.
Additionally, it provides such a dally training system, further
comprising at least one second connector adapted to connect such at
least one tensioner to the fixed object. Also, it provides such a
dally training system further comprising at least one saddle horn to
hold such at least one line fixable in adjacent position to such
dallyer when such dallyer is using such at least one line in such
dally-practicing.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a dally training system, relating to safe
dally-practicing, near a substantially fixed object, using at least
one dallyer's rope, the dallying steps to be used by a dallyer,
comprising, in combination: providing at least one line; applying at
least one tension force to such at least one line for retracting
such at least one line; connecting such at least one tension force
to the substantially fixed object; connecting such at least one line
to such at least one dallyer's rope; and dallying substantially
adjacent to such dallyer when such dallyer is using such at least
one line in such dally-practicing.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a dally training system, relating to use by a
dallyer, for safe dally-practicing the steps of dallying, near a
fixed object, using at least one saddle horn and using at least one
dally rope, comprising, in combination: at least one line; at least
one tensioner adapted to apply at least one tension force to such at
least one line such that such at least one line is retractable; and
at least one saddle horn to hold such at least one line
substantially adjacent to such dallyer when such dallyer is using
such at least one line in such dally-practicing. In addition, it
provides such a dally training system, wherein such at least one
line comprises such at least one dally rope. And, it provides such a
dally training system, further comprising at least one first
connector to connect such at least one line to such at least one
dally rope. Further, it provides such a dally training system,
further comprising at least one second connector to connect such at
least one tensioner to the fixed object. Even further, it provides
such a dally training system, further comprising at least one second
connector to connect such tensioner to the fixed object. Moreover,
it provides such a dally training system, further comprising at
least one saddle horn to hold such at least one line fixable in
adjacent position to such dallyer when such dallyer is using such at
least one line in such dally-practicing.
Additionally, it provides such a dally training system, further
comprising at least one reel. Also, it provides such a dally
training system, wherein such at least one tensioner comprises at
least one spring. In addition, it provides such a dally training
system, wherein such at least one tensioner comprises at least one
clutch system structured and arranged to allow the dallyer to
selectably control tension in such at least one line. And, it
provides such a dally training system, wherein such at least one
line comprises at least one safety release. Further, it provides
such a dally training system, wherein such at least one safety
release comprises at least one hook and loop material. Even further,
it provides such a dally training system, further comprising at
least one anti-kinking element structured and arranged to assist
anti-kinking in such at least one line. The dally training system,
wherein such at least one anti-kinking element comprises at least
one swivel.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a dally training system, relating to use by a
dallyer, for safe dally-practicing, near a fixed object, using at
least one saddle horn and using at least one dally rope, comprising,
in combination: at least one line; and at least one tensioner
adapted to apply at least one tension force to such at least one
line such that such at least one line is retractable; wherein such
at least one tensioner comprises at least one reel adapted to wind
and unwind such at least one line. Even further, it provides such a
dally training system wherein such at least one reel comprises at
least one eccentric portion adapted to provide irregular retraction
of such at least one line. Even further, it provides such a dally
training system wherein such at least one eccentric portion
comprises at least one protrusion. Even further, it provides such a
dally training system wherein such at least one eccentric portion
comprises exactly one protrusion. Even further, it provides such a
dally training system further comprising at least one dally rope.
Even further, it provides such a training system, further comprising
at least one anti-kinking element structured and arranged to assist
anti-kinking in such at least one line. Even further, it provides
such a dally training system, wherein such at least one anti-kinking
element comprises at least one swivel. Even further, it provides
such a dally training system further comprising at least one safety
release.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1A shows a side view of a dally practicing system, according to
a preferred embodiment of the present invention, attached to a fixed
object, e.g., a fence post, showing a user pulling on the rope.
FIG. 1B shows a side view of the dally practicing system of FIG. 1A,
showing a user creating slack in the rope.
FIG. 1C shows a side view of the dally practicing system of FIG. 1A,
showing a user that has dallied the rope around a saddle horn.
FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the dally retractor according to
FIG. 1A.
FIG. 3 shows a side view of the dally retractor according to FIG. 2.
FIG. 4 shows a front view of the dally retractor according to FIG.
2.
FIG. 5 shows an exploded perspective view of the dally retractor
according to FIG. 2.
FIG. 6 shows a side view of a safety release mechanism of the dally
practicing system according to FIG. 1A.
FIG. 7 shows a side view, partially in section, of the dally
retractor reel according to FIG. 5 illustrating a preferred
asymmetric protrusion.
FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the dally retractor reel
according to FIG. 7.
FIG. 9 shows a side view of a swivel and connector for the dally
system, according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
FIG. 10 shows a diagram of a method of safely practicing dallying,
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODES AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF
THE INVENTION
FIG. 1A shows a side view of a dally practicing system 103,
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention,
attached to a fixed object 120 (such as, for example, a fence post,
as shown).
FIG. 1B shows a side view of the dally practicing system 103 of FIG.
1A, showing a user creating slack in the rope 104.
FIG. 1C shows a side view of the dally practicing system 103 of FIG.
1A, showing a user that has dallied the rope 104 around a saddle
horn 102.
When a cowboy practices dallying with a steer on the distal end of
the rope, the conditions (and dangers) of dallying are both present.
The cowboy could get injured or lose a finger if movement of the
steer quickly takes up the slack in the rope and the cowboy's hand
gets caught in the rope. Therefore, it would be desirable to provide
conditions that simulate having a steer on the distal end of the
rope while providing safer conditions for developing the skill of
dallying. This is especially important for people just beginning to
learn the skill of dallying. In the past, to be safe, people have
practiced dallying by tying the distal end of the rope around a
fixed object. In this case, there is always slack in the rope, since
the fixed object does not move to take up the slack. However, an
important part of developing the skill of dallying is gauging the
slack in the rope that gets taken up as the steer moves. An
important component of the skill involved in dallying is being able
to dally while the slack is being taken up.
FIG. 1A through FIG. 1C shows the dally practicing system 103 being
used by user 100 sitting on saddle 101. Preferably, saddle 101 may
be in a fixed position, as shown (such as, for example, as shown,
mounted on a post fixed to a stand, or fixed in the ground) or may
be mounted on a horse, etc. Upon reading this specification, those
of skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering issues such as convenience, user
preference, cost, etc., other configurations may suffice, such as,
for example, having saddle 101 mounted on a mobile device, or a
configuration comprising only a portion of a saddle 101 with a
saddle horn 102, etc.
FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the dally retractor 109 of FIG.
1A.
FIG. 3 shows a side view of the dally retractor 109 according to
FIG. 2.
FIG. 4 shows a front view of the dally retractor 109 according to
FIG. 2. Preferably, rope 104 (embodying herein at least one such
dally rope) is connected to line 112 by connector 106 (embodying
herein first connection means for connecting said line means to said
at least one such dally rope), as shown.
Preferably, connector 106 comprises swivel 108 that helps prevent
rope 104 from kinking (embodying herein anti-kinking means for
helping prevent kinking in such at least one dally rope).
Preferably, connector 106 comprises a quick release mechanism 107
which permits user 100 to easily and conveniently attach and detach
rope 104 from line 112, as shown, so that, for example, rope 104 can
be replaced when it is worn or damaged and so user can switch out
different styles of ropes. Preferably, connector 106 comprises
swivel 108, (best shown in FIG. 9). Preferably, connector 106 and
swivel 108 are made of metal, preferably steel, for strength and
durability. According to an alternate preferred embodiment,
connector 106 comprises a carabiner. Upon reading this
specification, those skilled in the art will now understand that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as
strength, production cost, convenience, etc., other types of
connectors may suffice, such as, for example, tying rope 104 to a
loop of line 112, etc. Preferably, line 112 is made of metal,
preferably steel cable, preferably coated in a protective, clear,
plastic sleeve or coating. Upon reading this specification, those
skilled in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering issues such as strength, durability,
friction, production cost, etc., it may suffice for line 112 to be
made of material other than metal, such as, for example, nylon, to
reduce cost, etc. Upon reading this specification, those skilled in
the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering issues such as market demand, cost, reel mechanism,
etc., it may suffice for line 112 to be made of rope, in which case,
for example, it may suffice to omit connector 106, etc.
Preferably, line 112 is coiled around reel 114, which is enclosed by
case 116, as shown. Preferably, reel 114 comprises an asymmetric
protrusion 115 (such as, for example, as shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8)
so that reel 114 is eccentric and the speed with which slack is
taken up and/or the tension in line 112 varies as the line is coiled
around reel 114, thereby assisting in the simulation of an animal on
the end of a rope (embodying herein wherein said reel means
comprises eccentric means for providing irregular retraction of said
line means for improved simulation of the movement of an animal; and
embodying herein wherein said eccentric means comprises at least one
protrusion; and embodying herein wherein said eccentric means
comprises exactly one protrusion; and embodying herein wherein said
at least one reel comprises at least one eccentric portion adapted
to provide irregular retraction of said at least one retractable
line). Preferably, reel 114 is structured and arranged so that reel
114 will coil the cable up in such a way as to simulate the pull of
a running steer. Upon reading this specification, those skilled in
the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering issues such as user preference, production cost, etc.,
other reel arrangements may suffice, such as, for example, omitting
eccentric protrusion (normal symmetrical reel), other protrusion
arrangements (such as more than one, different shapes, etc.), etc.
Preferably, line 112 comprises a stopper 111 that prevents the end
of line 112 from being pulled inside of case 116, as shown.
Preferably stopper 111 is sized larger than the opening 113 (which
line 112 passes through) in case 116. Preferably, stopper 111 is
made of hard rubber so that it may absorb and dampen the impact of
colliding with objects such as case 116 during operation.
Preferably, stopper 111 is attached to line 112, preferably located,
as shown, so as to prevent safety release 110, swivel 108 or
connector 106 from entering case 116. Upon reading this
specification, those skilled in the art will now understand that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as
production cost, market demand, circumstances of intended use, etc.,
it may suffice to omit case 116; in such circumstance, for example,
attaching system 118 would be modified to allow user 100 to attach
reel 114 to a fixed object 120, etc.
Preferably, case 116 comprises attaching system 118 for attaching
case 116 to a fixed object 120, as shown. Preferably, attaching
system 118 allows user 100 to quickly and conveniently attach case
116 to fixed object 120. Upon reading this specification, those
skilled in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering issues such as location, and types of
objects available, etc., it may suffice to attach case 116 to an
object that is not fixed, such as, for example, a heavy object on
wheels, etc.
Preferably, attaching system 118 (embodying herein second connection
means for connecting said tension means to the fixed object)
comprises a metal ring 117 that swivels, as shown, through which a
strap 119 is threaded and tied to fixed object 120. Upon reading
this specification, those skilled in the art will now understand
that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as
production cost, market demand, types of objects to which users want
to attach such dallying system, etc., other attaching systems may
suffice, such as, for example, clamps, carabiners, short cables,
chains, etc., may suffice.
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, line 112
comprises safety release 110 that allows rope 104 to detach from
line 112, as shown. Preferably, safety release 110 is automatically
released when tension in line 112 exceeds a predetermined value, so
that user 100 will not be injured (for example, if the user's
fingers are caught in the rope). Preferably safety release 110 is
made of strips of hook and loop fabric such as, for example,
Velcro.TM. (see FIG. 6). Upon reading this specification, those
skilled in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering issues such as cost, reliability,
consumer demand, etc., other safety release arrangements may
suffice, such as for example, reinforcing the hook and loop fabric
with nylon webbing, using release mechanisms other than hook and
loop fabric (such as, for example snaps), a clutch that releases
tension on line 112, etc.
Preferably, reel 114 has a retraction mechanism 122 that places
tension on line 112 (which places tension on rope 104) and acts to
retract line 112 (embodying herein line means for providing at least
one retractable line) into case 116. Preferably, retraction
mechanism 122 comprises spring 123, preferably a power spring, (see
FIG. 5). Upon reading this specification, those skilled in the art
will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering issues such as cost, reliability, consumer demand, etc.,
retraction mechanisms other than spring 123 such as, for example, a
motor, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, retraction mechanism 122 exerts between about ten to
about forty pounds of tension pulling line 112, preferably enough to
simulate a steer taking up slack in the line 112, while remaining
relatively safe (preferably not enough to cut-off a finger caught in
the line 112 or rope 104, for example). Upon reading this
specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, such as user
preference, advances in technology, strength of the dallier, etc.,
other tension modifiers, such as adjustable tension, very light
tension, variable tension, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, retraction mechanism 122 takes up slack in rope 104 at a
rate between about four feet per second to about twelve feet per
second, more preferably about eight feet per second. Preferably
retraction mechanism 122 (embodying herein tension means for
controllably applying at least one tension force to said line for
selectably retracting said line means) comprises a clutch system 121
(see FIG. 5) that assists a user 100 to stop the tension placed on
line 112 (embodying herein line means for providing at least one
selectably retractable line). Upon reading this specification, those
of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, such as user preference, advances in
technology, intended use, etc., other retraction mechanism actions,
such as changing tension over time, releasing tension at a set
point, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, in operation, a user 100 (also herein called a dallyer)
practices dallying by wrapping rope 104 around the saddle horn 102
(embodying herein saddle horn means fixable in adjacent position to
such dallyer when such dallyer is using said line means in such
dally-practicing) of saddle 101, as shown in FIG. 1C. Preferably,
retraction mechanism 122 takes up slack in rope 104, simulating a
steer and providing a more realistic training experience.
Preferably, reel 116 allows at least fifteen feet of cable to be
released/retracted. Preferably, user 100 begins by releasing a
length of line 112 from reel 116, such as, for example fifteen feet.
The user then preferably coils a similar amount of rope 104 in one
hand, as shown in FIG. 1A. Preferably, user 100 can control whether
retraction mechanism 122 provides tension in the line or not by
engaging and disengaging clutch system 121. Preferably clutch system
121 operates by engaging when line 112 is slowly retracted, stopping
retraction mechanism 122 from placing tension on line 112.
Preferably, clutch system 121 is disengaged when line 112 is pulled
from reel 116 (releasing line 112, and allowing retraction mechanism
122 to place tension on line 112). Preferably, user 100 practices
dallying by getting positioned with coiled rope 105 in one hand and
then pulling 200 (as shown especially in FIG. 1A) on rope 104 with
the other hand (thereby releasing clutch system 121, if engaged), as
shown in FIG. 1A. Preferably, user 100 then creates slack in rope
104 by moving the hand quickly forward 202 (as shown in FIG. 1B) and
dallies 204 (as shown in FIG. 1C) while retraction mechanism 122
takes up the slack. Preferably, user 100 can create extra slack in
line 112 by releasing coiled rope 105. Upon reading the teachings of
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as economics, user preference, teaching method, dallyer age
and height, etc., other dally practice methods with dally practicing
system 103 may suffice.
FIG. 5 shows an exploded perspective view of the dally retractor 109
of FIG. 2. Preferably, case 116 is a circular case, preferably made
of a sturdy material, preferably metal, to protect spring 122 and
retracted portion of line 112. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as economics, user preference, durability etc., other
materials for the case 116, such as plastic, neoprene, PVC,
carbon-fiber, etc., may suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as economics, user preference, durability,
aesthetics, function, etc., other case 116 configurations, such as
square, polygonal, etc., may suffice. Preferably, case 116 is held
together by screws 124. Preferably, attaching system 118 is
connected to case 116 with spacers 125 and screws 124, as shown.
Preferably, retractor 109 comprises spring 123 and clutch 121, which
are housed inside case 116, as shown. Upon reading this
specification, those skilled in the art will now understand that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost,
consumer demand, etc., other clutch arrangements, such as other
types of clutch mechanisms, omitting the clutch, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 6 shows a side view of a safety release mechanism 110 of dally
practicing system 103 according to FIG. 1A. Preferably, safety
release 110 comprises two pieces of hook and loop fabric 130 (for
example, Velcro.TM.), as shown. Preferably, excessive tension in
line 112 acts to pull the two pieces of hook and loop fabric 130
apart, breaking the connection between the hook and loop fabric 130
portions 132. Upon reading this specification, those skilled in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering issues such as the force and operation of retraction
mechanism 122, cost, convenience, etc., omitting or having
alternative safety release mechanisms, such as for example, a snap
that comes undone (thereby disconnecting rope 104 from reel 114) at
a predetermined threshold of tension, a clutch that releases at a
threshold of tension, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 7 shows a side view, partially in section, of the dally
retractor reel 114 according to FIG. 5, illustrating a preferred
asymmetric protrusion. Preferably, protrusion 115 causes tension
force 109 to be irregular and jerky, much like a fighting steer
would be, in order to more closely simulate the dallying experience
for training. Upon reading this specification, those of ordinary
skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, such as user preference, advances in technology,
etc., other sources of random movement, such as other arrangements
of protrusions 115, attaching tension force 109 to a mechanical
bull, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of dally retractor reel 114
according to FIG. 7.
FIG. 9 shows a side view of a swivel 108 and connector 106 of the
dally system 103. Preferably, connector 106 comprises swivel 108, as
shown. Preferably, connector 106 and swivel 108 are made of metal,
as shown, more preferably steel, for strength and durability. Upon
reading this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will
now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, such as user
preference, advances in technology, etc., other swivels and
connectors, such as plastic swivels, ball-in-socket swivels, plastic
connectors, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 10 shows a diagram of a method 1000 of safely practicing
dallying, according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention. Preferably, method 1000 comprises the steps of: providing
1010 at least one line 112; applying 1020 at least one tension force
109 to such at least one line 112 for retracting such at least one
line 112; connecting 1030 such at least one tension force 109 to the
substantially fixed object 120; connecting 1040 such at least one
line 112 to such at least one dallyer's rope 104; and dallying 1050
substantially adjacent to such dallyer 100 when such dallyer 100 is
using said at least one line 112 in such dally-practicing (at least
embodying herein providing at least one line; applying at least one
tension force to such at least one line for retracting such at least
one line; connecting such at least one tension force to the
substantially fixed object; connecting such at least one line to
such at least one dallyer's rope; and dallying substantially
adjacent to such dallyer when such dallyer is using said at least
one line in such dally-practicing). Upon reading this specification,
those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, such as user preference, advances in
technology, intended use, etc., other steps, such as adjusting the
tension force, timing the dally process, connecting tension force
109 to a movable object, etc., may suffice.
Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments
of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of
this invention includes such modifications as diverse shapes and
sizes and materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims
as read in connection with the above specification.
Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will be
apparent to those skilled in the art from the above descriptions and
the below claims.
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