Multi-Directional Ball Rotation for Fast Item Repositioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ball rotation devices lack controlled adjustability for quick directional changes and are specialized, limiting their use across various industries such as film, robotics, and manufacturing.

Innovation Solution

A multi-directional ball rotation apparatus comprising a main housing with opposing side plates, a motor with a rotatable spindle, and a spherical member that allows for lateral rotation of the item in multiple directions, enabling easy directional changes through motor control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional ball rotation devices are used, then the structure is simple, but the directional change control is poor and adjustability is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedirectional change controlVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the ball rotation apparatus adjustable and controllable in multiple directions. The device transitions from a fixed, single-direction rotation mechanism to a dynamic system where the ball can be rotated laterally and the item can be maneuvered in multiple directions through controlled adjustment of the rotation axis and force application points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional ball rotation devices are used, then the device is specialized for specific applications, but the adaptability to different industries is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindustry applicabilityVSAvoiddevice configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a multi-directional ball rotation apparatus that can be used across various industries including film, robotics, and manufacturing. The device achieves this by providing adjustable rotation axes, multiple engagement points for items, and the capability to maneuver items in multiple directions, making it suitable for diverse applications such as camera positioning, component assembly, and product transportation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If traditional ball rotation devices are used, then the mechanism is simple, but the speed of directional change is slow

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedirectional change speedVSAvoidcontrol mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by enabling quick directional changes through adjustable rotation mechanisms. The ball rotation apparatus allows for rapid repositioning of items by permitting rotation around multiple axes and allowing the user to quickly change the direction of movement through controlled adjustment of the rotation parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enables controlled and efficient movement of items in multiple directions with minimal effort, enhancing usability across diverse industries by allowing quick directional adjustments.

Implementation Method 1

a first motor coupled to the main housing and positioned within the pair of opposing side plates and base plate, the motor comprising a first rotatable spindle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a spherical member coupled to the shaft and configured to engage the item, wherein rotational movement of the first spindle is configured to drive the shaft to rotate the spherical member laterally

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS11008175B1Multi-directional ball rotation apparatus for maneuvering an item
Publication Date: 2021.05.18 WATTS TITUS GADWIN
  • US11008175B1 patent drawing
  • US11008175B1 patent drawing
  • US11008175B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-directional ball rotation apparatus designed to maneuver an item in a plurality of directions is provided. The ball rotation apparatus includes a main housing, a first motor coupled to the main housing and having a first rotatable spindle, a shaft rotatably mounted to the main housing and operably connected to the first spindle of the motor, and a spherical member coupled to the shaft and designed to engage the item. The first spindle of the first motor is designed to rotate in a first direction to rotate the spherical member and item in a first direction. The first spindle of the first motor is designed to rotate in a second direction to rotate the spherical member and item in a second direction.