Integrated Ball Storage Pump for Long-Term Pressure Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing game ball storage devices require separate air sources for pressurization, are cumbersome to manufacture and use, and suffer from sealing issues that lead to inadequate long-term pressure retention.
Innovation Solution
A device with an integrated pump system comprising a cylindrical container, coaxial casing, annular compression piston, and non-return valves for pressurizing game balls, allowing ambient air to be pumped into the container using a handle-operated piston mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate compressed air source is used to pressurize the container, then the balls can be stored under pressure, but the device requires external equipment and becomes less practical
Solution Approach 1:
The pump mechanism is integrated directly into the container structure, merging the pressurization function with the storage container. The piston moves within the container's cylindrical space, eliminating the need for separate external air sources while maintaining the ability to pressurize and store balls effectively
2Adaptability or versatility
If a bellows pump is fitted to pressurize the container, then the device can be self-contained, but the mechanism becomes complicated to manufacture and use
Solution Approach 1:
The pump mechanism is segmented into simple functional components: a piston, connecting rod, and valves. The piston divides the container into compression and expansion chambers, allowing ambient air to be drawn in, compressed, and delivered to the ball storage area through check valves, creating a self-contained but simple mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The pump mechanism uses ambient air as its own air source, eliminating the need for external compressed air supplies. The check valves automatically control air flow direction based on pressure differentials created by piston movement, making the system self-regulating and simple to operate
3Adaptability or versatility
If a bellows pump is used for pressurization, then the device can operate independently, but it becomes bulky and less attractive
Solution Approach 1:
The piston and connecting rod are nested within the container's cylindrical volume, with the piston moving along the container's central axis. The compression and expansion chambers are nested within the same container space, maximizing space utilization and minimizing overall device bulk while maintaining independence
4Device complexity
If two containers with screw threads are used to pressurize, then the device can be simple in structure, but sealing issues arise over time
Solution Approach 1:
The screw thread mechanical connection is replaced with a piston-based compression system that uses check valves for sealing. The piston creates dynamic sealing through pressure differentials during compression strokes, while the check valves provide reliable one-way sealing, eliminating the sealing problems associated with threaded connections
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 provides self-contained pressurization without external air sources, simplifies manufacturing and use, and ensures effective long-term pressure retention of game balls.
Implementation Method 1
an annular compression piston arranged around the container and between the container and the casing, thereby defining a compression chamber between the compression piston, the casing and the container
Implementation Method 2
a first non-return valve arranged between the compression chamber and the ambiance to allow ambient air into the compression chamber
Implementation Method 3
a second non-return valve arranged between the compression chamber and a volume inside the container to transfer air from the compression chamber into the container
Data Source
AI summary
A device for storing at least one game ball under pressure, the device having a container with a leak-tight cover and a casing arranged around, and at a distance from, the container, and a pump for pumping ambient air into the container. The pump can include an annular piston arranged between the container and the casing, a handle connected to the piston for moving the piston translationally along the container, a first non-return valve for admitting ambient air into a compression chamber between the casing and the container, and a second non-return valve, arranged between the compression chamber and an internal volume of the container, for transferring air from the compression chamber to the container.