Ball Separator for Multi-Game Table Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ball game tables are limited in allowing multiple types of ball games to be played on a single surface, as they are designed for specific games and do not accommodate different numbers of players or types of ball sets, restricting flexibility in gameplay.
Innovation Solution
A ball separator system with a movable housing and actuator that tilts between positions to direct balls into different receptacles, allowing for the separation and selection of different ball games based on the number of players and type of game, enabling multiple ball games to be played on a single table.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a ball game table is designed for a specific type of ball game, then the table can provide optimal gameplay for that game, but the table cannot accommodate different types of ball games or different numbers of players
Solution Approach 1:
The ball separator housing is made movable between multiple tilted positions, allowing the table to dynamically adapt its ball separation configuration. This dynamic structure enables the same table to accommodate different ball game types (two-player, three-player, four-player games) by simply changing the housing position, without requiring multiple different table designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The ball separator is designed with multiple outlets and guide surfaces that can be selectively activated through the movable housing mechanism. This universal design allows a single table to serve multiple functions - supporting different ball game types and player counts - by reconfiguring which outlets are active and how balls are directed to receptacles.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single set of balls is used for all players, then the equipment remains simple, but the table cannot support different numbers of players or different ball game types
Solution Approach 1:
The movable housing with tiltable guide surfaces dynamically reconfigures the ball separation paths. By changing the housing position, the system can direct balls to different receptacles, enabling support for two-player, three-player, or four-player games with a single set of balls, avoiding the need for multiple different ball sets or complex separation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical parameters of the ball separation path by tilting the guide surfaces to different angles. This parameter change allows the same physical structure to direct balls to different receptacles, enabling flexible player configuration without adding mechanical complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the ball separator uses fixed guide surfaces, then the structure is simple, but it cannot direct balls to different receptacles for different games
Solution Approach 1:
The guide surfaces are made tiltable relative to the housing, allowing them to change their orientation and direct balls to different receptacles. This dynamic configuration enables the system to adapt to different ball game types and player numbers by simply adjusting the guide surface angles, without requiring multiple different guide surface sets or complex reconfiguration mechanisms.
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 the separation and selection of different ball games, allowing for games with varying numbers of players and types of ball sets to be played on a single table, enhancing gameplay flexibility and compatibility.
Implementation Method 1
the housing is movable between a first tilted position in which the outlet is provided for dispensing balls under gravity to a first receptacle and a second tilted position in which the second outlet is provided for dispensing balls under gravity to a second receptacle
Data Source
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AI summary
A ball separator for separating the balls of a first ball game from the balls of a second ball game. The ball separator comprises a housing providing an inlet for receiving the balls and at least one outlet for dispensing the balls under gravity. The housing is moveable between a first position in which the at least one outlet can dispense balls under gravity to a first receptacle and a second position in which the at least one outlet can dispense balls under gravity to a second receptacle. The ball separator also comprises an actuator for moving the housing between the first and second positions of the housing.