Adjustable Pitching Training Panel With Sensor Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Baseball pitchers face challenges in learning proper pitching mechanics due to the subjective nature of coach-provided feedback, which limits independent practice and increases the risk of injury from improper form.
Innovation Solution
A portable, adjustable apparatus that assists pitchers in maintaining proper form by adjusting to different dimensions, providing guidance on starting position, posture, leg kick, arm angle, and follow-through, allowing for independent practice and adaptation to various pitcher sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If coach-provided feedback is used to teach pitching mechanics, then pitchers can receive guidance on proper form, but the feedback is subjective and unreliable, limiting independent practice
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an objective feedback system using sensors to detect pitcher's form and provide real-time visual feedback through LEDs and a display screen. The system measures angular positions of body parts and compares them against proper mechanics, providing reliable, quantifiable feedback that eliminates subjectivity and enables independent practice.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of human coach observation and feedback with an automated electronic measurement and feedback system. Sensors, processors, and display elements substitute for human eyes and judgment, providing consistent, objective feedback that is not subject to human error or variability.
2Productivity
If pitchers practice independently without proper guidance, then they can train more frequently, but they risk developing improper form and increasing injury risk
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides continuous real-time feedback during independent practice sessions, allowing pitchers to train frequently while receiving immediate correction on form errors. The visual feedback through LEDs and display enables pitchers to self-correct improper mechanics before they lead to injury.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables pitchers to conduct independent practice sessions with automated form analysis and feedback. The pitcher serves their own coaching needs by using the system to monitor and correct their mechanics, eliminating the need for constant coach supervision while maintaining proper form.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed pitching training device is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate pitchers of different heights and dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable support legs with telescopic sections that can be extended or retracted to accommodate different pitcher heights. The support structure transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable one, allowing the device to adapt to various user dimensions while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows modification of key geometric parameters including support leg length, panel height, and sensor positions to match different pitcher anthropometrics. By changing these physical parameters, the device accommodates a range of pitcher sizes without requiring complete redesign.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for teaching baseball pitching includes a substantially flat panel having a substantially rectangular shape with adjustable height and width dimensions. The apparatus further includes at least two support members for supporting the flat panel in an upright position. The length of the support members can be adjusted to obtain a desired distance between a bottom edge of the flat panel and the ground.