Ball display case
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display cases for sports memorabilia, such as baseballs, lack effective protection against degradation and tampering, and fail to securely position and orient the items for optimal viewing and preservation.
Innovation Solution
A display case design featuring a base with a pedestal that includes a spring platform to securely seat and center the ball, a transparent cover that prevents direct contact and offers UV and IR protection, and a bayonet connection for secure closure, allowing for adjustable accommodation of different ball sizes and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid support structure is used to hold the ball, then the ball is securely positioned, but the ball may be damaged due to lack of cushioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by incorporating a compliant support structure with elastomeric material between the rigid base and the ball. This cushioning layer is pre-installed to absorb shocks and prevent direct rigid contact, thereby protecting the ball from degradation while maintaining secure positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses flexible elastomeric material in the support structure to create a compliant interface between the rigid base and the ball. This flexible element deforms under the ball's weight to provide gentle support, preventing damage while ensuring the ball remains securely positioned during display and transport.
2Reliability
If the cover is made tightly fitting to prevent tampering, then protection against tampering is improved, but removal of the ball becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating a spring mechanism in the support structure that allows the ball to be easily inserted and removed when force is applied, while maintaining a tightly fitting cover for tampering protection during normal display conditions. The spring compresses to facilitate removal and returns to its original position to secure the ball.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary release mechanism (such as a tamper-evident seal or locking system) that allows authorized removal of the ball from the cover while maintaining tampering protection. This intermediary system mediates between the need for secure containment and ease of legitimate access.
3Ease of operation
If the ball is allowed to rotate freely for viewing, then viewing flexibility is improved, but the ball may shift position causing wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible elastomeric support surface that conforms to the ball's shape, providing gentle contact points that allow the ball to rotate for viewing while preventing excessive movement that would cause wear. The flexible material distributes contact forces evenly across the ball surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an asymmetric support structure with strategically positioned contact points that stabilize the ball during rotation. The asymmetric arrangement of support elements allows controlled rotation while preventing the ball from shifting in a way that would cause degradation at specific locations.
4Ease of manufacture
If a simple base structure is used, then manufacturing is easier, but the ball cannot be securely centered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing a support structure with elastomeric material that automatically conforms to the ball's position and weight, self-centering the ball without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms. The flexible material deforms to create natural contact points that secure the ball in a centered position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by incorporating elastomeric material with specific durometer and thickness parameters that enable the simple base structure to achieve precise ball centering. The material's physical parameters (softness, compressibility) are selected to provide adequate support and centering force while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
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 solution provides enhanced protection against degradation and tampering, ensures secure positioning and orientation of the ball, and allows for easy viewing while preventing accidental removal or rotation, thus preserving the condition and authenticity of the item.
Implementation Method 1
The platform includes a spring configured to yield when contacted by the ball in the display case. The spring comprises a plurality of spring members extending horizontally from an outer edge margin of the platform.
Data Source
AI summary
A base assembly for a ball display case includes a base configured to support the display case on a surface. A pedestal is supported by the base and configured to support the ball in the display case. The pedestal includes a platform for seating the ball in the display case. The platform includes a spring configured to yield when contacted by the ball in the display case.