Interactive Bat Training Device with Accelerometer Feedback
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing batting trainer devices fail to provide reliable feedback on the location of the ball or target contacted by the bat and the acceleration forces generated, and they are unable to track a batter's progress over time or store/display data related to hitting parameters.
Innovation Solution
An interactive bat training device equipped with a target region, an accelerometer, a microprocessor, and a feedback indicator, which includes a computing device for displaying data and providing visual, haptic, and audible feedback, allowing for real-time analysis and tracking of batting performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing batting trainer devices are used, then basic batting practice can be performed, but reliable feedback on impact location and acceleration forces cannot be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical batting training devices with an electronic system that uses accelerometers, microprocessors, and digital sensors to detect and measure bat swing parameters, impact location, and acceleration forces. This substitution enables precise measurement and reliable feedback that mechanical systems cannot provide.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a comprehensive feedback system that provides real-time information to batters about their swing mechanics, impact location, and performance metrics. The system uses visual, auditory, and haptic feedback mechanisms to deliver actionable insights, enabling batters to make immediate adjustments and improve their technique.
2Productivity
If traditional batting aids are used, then shock absorption is provided, but tracking and storage of batting progress over time is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a data management intermediary system consisting of memory storage, processing algorithms, and analysis software that captures, stores, and analyzes batting performance data over time. This intermediary layer enables long-term tracking of progress and provides insights that would be impossible to obtain through traditional training methods.
3Ease of operation
If simple batting practice devices are used, then ease of operation is maintained, but data analysis and progress tracking capabilities are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service functionality where the system automatically captures, processes, and analyzes batting data without requiring manual intervention. The device autonomously tracks performance metrics, stores progress data, and generates feedback reports, reducing the operational burden on users while providing comprehensive analysis capabilities.
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 consistent and useful feedback on the location and force of bat impacts, enabling users to improve their batting skills by analyzing and displaying hitting parameters over time, facilitating progress tracking and data-driven training adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
an accelerometer, a microprocessor, and a feedback indicator
Data Source
AI summary
A ball hitting practice device includes a shaft having a target at a distal end, a grip at a proximal end, an accelerometer, a microprocessor, and a way of providing feedback to a person hitting the target. A ball hitting practice system includes a ball hitting practice device and a computing device wirelessly communicating with the ball hitting practice device. A method for practicing ball hitting involves striking the target of a ball hitting practice, transferring timed acceleration data to the computing device, correlating ball hitting parameters with a training condition and displaying the correlated ball hitting parameter in a display.