Ball holder for table tennis tables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing table tennis ball storage solutions either interfere with player movement or are impractical for use during gameplay, as they are either located under the table and can cause tripping or are affixed near the net, requiring players to reach far for balls.
Innovation Solution
A ball holder designed with an L-shaped top and bottom piece, secured under the corner of the table tennis table, providing a convenient storage location that is out of the way during gameplay, using screws or other attachment devices for secure affixation, and featuring a foam-lined interior for easy ball access and retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the ball holder is located under the end of the table (as in Chung patent), then it is convenient for players to remove balls, but it creates interference with player movement and reduces space below the table
Solution Approach 1:
The ball holder is repositioned from the traditional under-end-location to the side-of-table location near the net, changing the spatial dimension of ball storage. This dimensional shift allows players to access balls from the side rather than from under the table, eliminating leg interference while maintaining convenience.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the ball holder is located on the side near the net (as in Chen patent), then it does not interfere with player movement, but it requires players to reach far for balls during gameplay
Solution Approach 1:
The ball holder is positioned specifically at the side of the table near the net, creating a localized storage area that is strategically placed to serve both purposes: it is far enough from the playing surface to avoid interference, yet close enough to the net for quick ball retrieval during gameplay.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If players retrieve balls after each play without a holder, then there is no interference with player movement, but the flow of the game is interrupted and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The ball holder pre-stores multiple balls in an accessible location, allowing players to retrieve the next ball immediately after scoring without leaving the playing area. This preliminary preparation of balls eliminates the need to search for lost balls, maintaining continuous game flow.
Data Source
AI summary
A ball holder for a table tennis table designed for non-intrusive mounting under a corner of a table tennis table. The ball holder can be manufactured in two parts for ease of sale and construction, with the two halves being easily assembled and secured by the user. The two halves can connect using a set of male and female tabs, and secure using a set of bolts. The full assembly can attach to the table tennis table through the use of four screws. Properly assembled, the ball holder can contain multiple table tennis balls in an easily accessible position, but without obstructing the players' range of motion or creating a hazard.