Collapsible Batting Cage Self-Standing Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large batting cage systems are difficult and time-consuming to assemble and disassemble, requiring tools and multiple people, making them suboptimal for frequent or semi-frequent use in applications like backyard installations or multi-use spaces.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible batting cage system with upright frames that can stand upright without additional support, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly by a single user, featuring nested frames, sliding base segments, and tool-free cross member attachments for quick setup and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional batting cage systems are used, then structural stability is maintained, but assembly and disassembly become difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The batting cage system is divided into multiple separable components including upright frames, cross members, and netting sections. Each upright frame can be independently assembled and then connected to cross members, allowing for modular assembly and disassembly without requiring complete teardown of the entire structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The cross members are designed to nest within the upright frames when not in use, and the upright frames themselves can be positioned within designated areas for compact storage. This nesting capability significantly reduces storage space requirements and facilitates easy transport of the system components.
2Ease of operation
If traditional batting cage systems are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but multiple people and tools are required for assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The upright frames are designed with self-standing base segments that provide inherent stability without requiring additional support structures or tools during assembly. The frames can be independently positioned and stabilized by a single user, and the connection mechanisms allow for tool-free attachment of cross members and netting.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable and movable connection points that allow a single user to easily attach and detach components. The dynamic design enables the structure to be adapted during assembly without requiring precise pre-positioning or specialized tools, making the entire process manageable for one person.
3Area of stationary object
If large batting cage systems are designed, then playing area is increased, but storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cross members are designed to nest within the upright frames when not in use, and the upright frames can be positioned within designated storage areas. This nesting capability significantly reduces storage space requirements while maintaining full playing area dimensions when the system is assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into separable components that can be stored independently or nested together. The netting can be removed and stored separately, allowing the frame structure to be compacted to minimal dimensions for storage while preserving the full playing area when assembled.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprises a plurality of upright frames, an upright frame of the plurality of upright frames comprising a first upright segment, a second upright segment, and a lateral segment to connect a first end of the first upright segment to a first end of the second upright segment, a first base segment to couple to a second end of the first upright segment, and a second base segment to couple to a second end of the second upright segment, wherein the first base segment and the second base segment are to interface with a ground surface to support the upright frame in an upright position. The plurality of upright frames are adapted to support a batting cage net when in use and the plurality of upright frames are nestable together or may be placed directly adjacent each other when not in use.