Adjustable Cue Stick Weighting for Precise Balance Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cue sticks with fixed weight and center of gravity are inefficient for customization, and prior art weight adjustment systems are time-consuming, imprecise, and limited by non-concentric chambers and structural integrity issues.
Innovation Solution
A cue design with a bore extending throughout the entire butt section, incorporating a support tube and a carrier system with slidably movable weights and washers, allowing precise weight distribution along the entire length, facilitated by a reference designation system for neutral balance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed weight cue sticks are used, then manufacturing is simple, but customization capability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The cue stick is divided into functional segments: a bore section, a carrier assembly, and a weight system. The carrier can be independently inserted and removed from the bore, and weights can be independently adjusted on the carrier, allowing modular customization without redesigning the entire cue structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The weight system transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. Weights can be moved to different positions on the carrier, and the carrier itself can be positioned at different locations within the bore, enabling real-time adjustment of the cue's center of gravity and weight distribution.
2Ease of operation
If prior art weight adjustment systems are used, then weight customization is possible, but adjustment process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier is pre-configured with weight attachment points and positioning features during manufacturing. The bore is pre-formed with appropriate tolerances and features to receive the carrier. This preliminary preparation allows users to quickly adjust weights without complex assembly procedures during field use.
Solution Approach 2:
The weight adjustment mechanism is nested within the carrier, which itself is nested within the bore. This nested structure allows compact storage of adjustment components and enables quick access to weight adjustment mechanisms without disassembling the entire cue stick.
3Measurement precision
If prior art weight adjustment systems are used, then weight can be changed, but precision is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier features locally optimized geometric elements such as tapered sections, precision-machined surfaces, and specifically positioned weight attachment points. These local quality enhancements at critical interfaces enable precise weight positioning without requiring the entire system to be overly complex.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex threaded adjustment mechanisms with a simpler friction-fit or interference-fit system between the carrier and bore, combined with precision-machined weight positioning features. This substitution maintains precision while reducing mechanical complexity.
4Manufacturing precision
If non-concentric chambers are used in prior art designs, then manufacturing is easier, but cue balance is distorted
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier assembly includes self-aligning features such as tapered sections or cam mechanisms that automatically center the weight system within the bore during insertion. This self-service alignment eliminates the need for perfectly concentric machining of the bore, achieving high precision without excessive manufacturing difficulty.
Data Source
AI summary
A cue for use in billiard games includes a removable weight system located in a bore in a butt section of the cue. The weight system includes a carrier having a length extending from a first end to a second end with one or more weights and two or more support washers supported on the carrier. A butt plate is secured to the first end of the carrier, the butt plate having a first end and a second end and including an opening extending from the first end to the second end, the opening having a circular cross section at a second end for receiving the carrier of the weight system. The one or more weights and the two or more washers may be set at different locations along the length of the carrier.