Adjustable Bat Balance Accessory for Swing Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing baseball bats have a center of mass further away from the player's grip due to their weight distribution, making it difficult for younger or weaker players to swing effectively, and existing training devices either impede proper swing mechanics or are limited to training purposes and cannot be used during live games.

Innovation Solution

A removable and adjustable balance accessory that can be affixed to the knob of a bat, shifting the center of mass closer to the handle, allowing for improved balance and reduced force required for swinging, and can be used on various bats and sports equipment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If the bat weight is increased to improve momentum and energy transfer, then the swing speed and hitting power are improved, but the swing becomes harder for younger or weaker players to control

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehitting powerVSAvoidswing control

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The balance accessory is designed as a separate removable component that can be attached to or removed from the bat knob, dividing the weight adjustment function from the bat itself. This allows players to add weight for power without permanently modifying the bat, and to remove it for easier swing control when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The balance accessory features adjustable weight capsules that can be added or removed to change the weight distribution dynamically. This allows the bat's balance point to be adjusted based on the player's needs, swing strength, and playing conditions, optimizing both power and control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If training devices are used to improve swing mechanics, then player strength and control are enhanced, but the devices impede proper swing mechanics or cannot be used during live games

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveswing controlVSAvoidusability in training and games

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The balance accessory serves dual purposes: as a training aid to improve swing control and as a game-day accessory to optimize bat balance. Its removable design and subtle appearance allow it to be used in both practice and competitive situations without impeding swing mechanics or violating equipment rules.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The balance accessory is designed as a simple, lightweight component that can be easily attached and removed. Its minimal impact on bat weight and simple construction make it suitable for frequent use during training sessions and competition without requiring permanent installation or complex mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentUS12128282B2Sport equipment balance accessory

Publication Date: 2024.10.29 VELO SPORTS LLC

AI summary

The present application discloses an accessory for items of sporting equipment. Implementations may provide an accessory comprising a structure configured to be affixed to a first end of an item of sporting equipment meant to be swung or rotated, such as a baseball bat, lacrosse stick, or tennis racquet. The addition of the accessory results in movement of the center of mass of the sporting item. Implementations may be varied in weight and dimension such that the center of mass of the sporting item is moved to a location optimal for the demands of the sport and individual athletes' needs. Implementations may also provide for modifiable weight or dimension of the accessory.