Basketball Hoop Height Adjustment Using Elastic Strap and Retaining Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing basketball equipment height adjustment systems are mechanically complex and difficult for young children to operate, as they require a crank mechanism that can be challenging to manage.
Innovation Solution
A simplified height adjustment system using an adjustable strap with a holding device and elastic assistance, allowing intuitive height adjustment by manipulating a free strap portion, which is secure and easy to use, even for children, with a mechanism that prevents sudden falls and facilitates storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a crank mechanism is used for height adjustment, then the height can be adjusted, but the device becomes mechanically complex and difficult for children to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the crank mechanism from the height adjustment system and replaces it with a simple strap-based system. The adjustment strap with its distal and proximal portions, engaged on a return pulley, eliminates the need for complex mechanical components while maintaining height adjustment functionality. This extraction of the problematic crank mechanism directly resolves the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment strap system is designed to be self-operating through simple pulling and releasing actions. The elastic element provides automatic tensioning and the strap can be easily manipulated by users without requiring complex mechanical knowledge. This self-service design makes the system intuitively operable for children while minimizing mechanical complexity.
2Ease of operation
If a crank mechanism is used for height adjustment, then height control is achieved, but the system becomes difficult for young children to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters from requiring rotational crank movement to simple linear pulling and releasing of the adjustment strap. This parameter change makes the system adaptable to children's physical capabilities and cognitive understanding, as pulling a strap is a more intuitive and physically accessible action for young users compared to operating a crank mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If the adjustment system uses a simple strap mechanism, then ease of operation improves, but the system must ensure stability to prevent sudden falls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a holding device with a blocking mechanism that prevents the adjustment strap from suddenly releasing. This blocking mechanism acts as a safety cushion that anticipates and prevents potential sudden falls of the basket. The elastic element also provides cushioning by absorbing shock and providing controlled tension, ensuring stable operation while maintaining ease of use.
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 system allows easy and safe height adjustment of the basketball hoop, making it accessible to children and reducing mechanical complexity, while ensuring stability and safety during use and storage.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic element having a lower end fixed to the base and an upper end connected to the proximal portion of the adjustment strap, the elastic element being arranged to be elastically stretched over the upward stroke of the basket
Implementation Method 2
a return pulley which is mounted on an upper part of the mast, the adjustment strap being engaged on the pulley
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to equipment for playing basketball, comprising a base (1), a pole (2) along which a basket (3) is mounted in translation and is adjustable in height by a system comprising an adjustment strap (12) having a distal end (14a) attached to the basket (3) and a return element (13) mounted on an upper part of said pole, said strap being engaged on said element having a distal portion (12a) extending between said end and said element and a proximal portion (12b) extending from said element to a proximal end (14b), the adjustment system comprising a retaining device having a lower part attached to the base (1) and an upper part connected to the proximal end (14b) by means of a mechanism for adjusting the length of said upper part.