Foldable Bowling Ball Stand With Ball Casters for Surface Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bowling ball supports are prone to scratching or damaging the outer surface of the ball due to inadequate support structures, and they are cumbersome and inefficient for storage, cleaning, and portability.
Innovation Solution
A support system comprising a pair of support plates with rotating ball casters that minimally contact the bowling ball's surface, allowing easy cleaning and drilling, and can be folded for reduced storage space and improved portability using a coupling mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a Y-shaped support plate with ball casters is used to support the bowling ball, then the ball can be stored and the space can be kept tidy, but the joint between the ball caster and support plate is weak and cannot sufficiently support the load of the bowling ball
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the support structure into multiple functional segments: a Y-shaped support plate for positioning, multiple ball casters for support and rotation, and a base plate for stability. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while distributing the load across multiple strong connection points rather than relying on a single weak joint.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines multiple ball casters (at least three) to work together in supporting the bowling ball, merging their individual load-bearing capacities to create a collectively strong support system. The ball casters are positioned at different locations on the base plate to distribute and share the ball's weight, resolving the weakness of individual joints.
2Ease of manufacture
If the support plate structure is simplified to reduce manufacturing cost, then price competitiveness improves, but the ability to protect the bowling ball surface from scratching or damaging may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces ball casters as intermediary elements between the support structure and the bowling ball. These ball casters act as mediators that minimize direct contact and potential damage to the ball's outer surface while still providing adequate support. The ball casters rotate smoothly and distribute contact pressure, protecting the ball surface without requiring complex expensive materials or structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses relatively simple and cost-effective ball casters made from affordable materials that can be easily replaced if needed. Rather than using expensive protective coatings or complex mechanisms, the design employs simple rotating ball casters that provide effective surface protection at low cost, maintaining price competitiveness while preventing ball damage.
3Ease of operation
If the support plate is designed to be foldable for improved portability, then storage and movement become easier, but the structural stability during use may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements a dynamic support structure where the Y-shaped support plate can be folded and unfolded. When unfolded during use, the structure provides stable support for the bowling ball. When folded, it becomes compact and portable. The ball casters and base plate remain stationary during use to maintain stability, while the support plate's foldability is activated only during transitions between storage and use states.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention segments the support structure into a foldable Y-shaped support plate component and a stationary base plate with ball casters. This segmentation allows the support plate to be folded for portability while the base plate with multiple ball casters remains stable during use, as the ball casters are firmly attached to the base plate and provide consistent support points regardless of the support plate's position.
4Ease of operation
If multiple ball casters are used to support the bowling ball, then the ball can rotate smoothly and cleaning becomes easier, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses multiple ball casters that serve multiple functions simultaneously: they support the bowling ball's weight, enable smooth rotation for cleaning and drilling operations, and distribute mechanical stress across multiple contact points. This multi-functionality justifies the increased number of components, as each ball caster contributes to several operational requirements at once, making the added complexity worthwhile for the functional benefits gained.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a support device placed between a floor and a bowling ball to safely protect and store the ball. It comprises a first and second support plate, each with frames and accommodating protrusions to cradle the bowling ball, and a coupling means that axially connects the plates. Through axial rotation, the support plates can unfold or fold, enabling compact storage, easy portability, and minimizing surface contact to prevent scratches. The design allows the ball to rotate with minimal force for cleaning or drilling preparation. This structure not only reduces manufacturing costs by using a simple dual-plate system but also enhances usability by providing a multifunctional stand that supports, protects, and facilitates cleaning and transportation of the bowling ball.