Ball Throwing Machine with Gravity Fed Hopper and Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for improving soccer players' first touch and ball control skills lack a disciplined approach for progress measurement and goal-oriented improvement, often requiring a partner for training, which can be impractical for serious athletes.
Innovation Solution
A soccer ball throwing device with a gravity fed spiral hopper and ball delivery system that can adjust capacity, combined with a controller for remote operation, enabling controlled ball delivery and recording of training data for customized training programs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a partner is used for ball control training, then players can practice ball receiving and control skills, but it requires another person which can be impractical for serious athletes training alone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a ball throwing machine as an intermediary device between the player and the training partner. The machine automatically throws balls to the player, simulating the role of a human partner while eliminating the need for actual human interaction. This mediator enables solo training while maintaining the effectiveness of partner-based drills.
2Measurement precision
If traditional ball control training methods are used, then players can practice basic skills, but they lack a disciplined approach for progress measurement and goal-oriented improvement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a control system with processors that track and record training data, providing feedback on player performance. The system monitors metrics such as ball reception accuracy, control quality, and drill completion, enabling players to measure their progress objectively and adjust their training goals accordingly.
Solution Approach 2:
The training program dynamically adjusts training parameters such as ball throwing frequency, distance, and trajectory based on the player's performance level and progress. This allows the system to evolve from basic skill practice to advanced drills, providing goal-oriented improvement paths tailored to individual player needs.
3Loss of information
If players practice ball control without structured programs, then they can train freely, but they cannot track progress or receive customized training guidance
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously collects and stores training data, creating a comprehensive record of player performance over time. This data retention enables progress tracking and provides the basis for generating customized training programs that adapt to the player's evolving skill level.
Solution Approach 2:
The system analyzes collected training data to pre-generate customized training programs before the player begins their next training session. This preliminary preparation ensures that players receive tailored guidance based on their historical performance, eliminating the need for manual program design.
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 players to track progress, receive remote coaching, and improve ball control skills through structured training drills, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of practice sessions.
Implementation Method 1
a gravity fed spiral hopper configured to hold a plurality of soccer balls
Data Source
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AI summary
A ball throwing machine can include a hopper for receiving one or more balls and a ball delivery device. The ball delivery device can be used to throw or pitch a ball from the hopper to a user of the machine. The ball delivery device can include wheels to impart speed to the ball and a direction system to control the projection angle of the ball. The direction system can control at least one of the up and down angle and the side to side angle of the ball as it is thrown, among possibly other throwing parameters. A controller may be provided for controlling operation of the ball throwing machine.