Integrated Backstroke Starting Block Ledge for Quick Stowing

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing supporting ledge devices for backstroke swimming require additional mechanical handling operations for installation and adjustment, and lack efficient means for stowing during races, complicating the setup and race execution.

Innovation Solution

A supporting ledge device integrated into the starting block or base plate, featuring an actuation assembly with fastening elements and return means, allowing quick installation, adjustment, and easy stowing without additional parts, using flexible straps and elastic bands for precise positioning and retrieval.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a supporting ledge device is added to the starting block for backstroke races, then the swimmer can be properly positioned and supported, but additional mechanical handling operations are required for installation and stowing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveswimmer positioningVSAvoidinstallation and stowing operations

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The supporting ledge device is merged with the starting block structure by integrating the adjustment means directly into the starting block. The cylinder passes through the side walls of the starting block itself, combining two previously separate components (starting block and ledge adjustment mechanism) into a single integrated unit, thereby eliminating the need for separate installation and stowing operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The starting block is given multiple functions: it serves both as the swimmer's starting platform and as the housing for the ledge adjustment mechanism. The cylinder and wheel assembly, originally a separate device, is now incorporated into the starting block structure, allowing the same component to perform both adjustment and structural support functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a separate adjustment mechanism is used for the supporting ledge, then the ledge position can be adjusted, but the mechanism must be added to the starting block before each race

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveledge position adjustmentVSAvoidsetup time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment mechanism is pre-integrated into the starting block structure during manufacturing, so that the ledge position can be adjusted immediately when needed without requiring prior assembly or installation steps. The cylinder and wheel are already in place, ready for immediate use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Device complexity

If the supporting ledge device is not integrated into the starting block, then the starting block structure remains simple, but additional parts and handling operations are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestarting block structureVSAvoidinstallation and stowing

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The supporting ledge device is merged with the starting block structure by integrating the adjustment means directly into the starting block. The cylinder passes through the side walls of the starting block itself, combining two previously separate components (starting block and ledge adjustment mechanism) into a single integrated unit, thereby eliminating the need for separate installation and stowing operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Facilitates quick and easy setup and stowing of the supporting ledge device, enhancing usability, aesthetics, and safety by eliminating the need for manual handling and providing precise, integrated adjustment.

Implementation Method 1

A supporting ledge device integrated into the starting block or base plate, featuring an actuation assembly with fastening elements and return means, allowing quick installation, adjustment, and easy stowing without additional parts, using flexible straps and elastic bands for precise positioning and retrieval.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS12465833B2Starting block or base plate with a supporting ledge device for a start of a backstroke race

Publication Date: 2025.11.11 SWISS TIMING LTD

AI summary

A starting block (1) including a supporting ledge device (10) for a start of a backstroke race. The supporting ledge device is at least partially integrated into the starting block. The supporting ledge device includes a support ledge (13) on which at least one foot of a swimmer can be supported before the start of a backstroke race. The support ledge is held from within a base (9) or a base plate of the starting block by fastening elements (11). Two flexible fastening elements in the form of straps are respectively connected to the two ends of the support ledge and to return means within the starting block at ends opposite the fixation to the support ledge.