Air Resistance Training Device for Sports Implements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing training devices for sports do not provide sufficient resistance during the act of throwing or striking, leading to suboptimal strength training and requiring extensive space for practice, as they either slow down the object after it's been struck or are cumbersome and ineffective.
Innovation Solution
A training device that connects a sports implement to an air resistance member via a connection system, providing immediate air resistance during movement, thus strengthening muscles and allowing for efficient training in confined spaces without the need for additional weights or nets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If a parachute or drogue chute is attached to a sports implement, then the distance traveled by the object is reduced, but air resistance is not applied during the act of throwing or striking
Solution Approach 1:
The air resistance member is positioned in near engagement with the sports implement before the throwing or striking action occurs. The connection system maintains this preliminary positioning so that when the athlete performs the athletic action, air resistance is immediately applied throughout the entire motion, not just after the object is released.
Solution Approach 2:
A connection system acts as an intermediary between the sports implement and the air resistance member. This connection system allows the air resistance member to remain in near engagement with the implement during the athletic action while not interfering with the athlete's grip or the implement's performance.
2Force
If a belt sleeve is used to attach a chute to a baseball bat, then some air resistance is provided, but the device is cumbersome and the belt sleeve is not durable
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into multiple functional segments: attachment elements that secure to the sports implement, a flexible connection portion that allows motion, and engagement elements that connect to the air resistance member. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally while reducing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system utilizes flexible, thin-film materials that can bend and stretch to accommodate the athletic motion without adding significant weight or complexity. These flexible connections maintain durability while allowing the full range of motion required during throwing or striking actions.
3Length of stationary object
If long suspension cables are used to connect the chute, then the chute can be positioned away from the implement, but the cables become entangled when used or stored
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is designed so that the flexible connection portion can be nested or coiled within itself when not in use. This nesting capability allows the connection system to be compact during storage and transport, preventing entanglement while still providing sufficient length during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system incorporates dynamic, flexible materials that can adapt their configuration based on the state of use. During athletic motion, the connection extends to provide the necessary distance between the implement and air resistance member. During storage, the same flexible connection naturally coils or nests to prevent entanglement.
4Force
If weighted training devices are used to increase resistance, then strength training is improved, but the device requires additional weight beyond the nominal weight
Solution Approach 1:
The air resistance member utilizes pneumatic principles by capturing and utilizing air pressure and drag forces. When the sports implement moves through the air with the air resistance member attached, the interaction with air molecules creates resistance force that strengthens the athlete's muscles without adding significant weight to the moving object.
Solution Approach 2:
The resistance force is changed by varying parameters such as the surface area of the air resistance member, its orientation to the direction of motion, and the velocity of the implement. This allows for adjustable resistance levels without changing the weight of the training device, providing versatile strength training options.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device enhances throwing speed, arm speed, and distance while reducing training time, allowing for effective solo or indoor training with improved athletic performance and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
when the sports implement is moved immediate air resistance is applied to the movement of the sports implement
Data Source
AI summary
A training device that includes a sports implement connected to an air resistance member in near engagement by a connection system. In one arrangement, the air resistance member has a first and a second layer of material. The training device reduces the distance the sports implement travels by application of air resistance once airborne once thrown, kicked, struck, or otherwise moved by an athlete. While still under the influence of the athlete, the training device's resistance to air strengthens the athlete during the course of athletic movements.