Ergonomic Scoreboard Controller with Curved Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Umpires and scorekeepers face challenges in efficiently and accurately scoring games like baseball and softball due to the need for rapid and precise data entry, which existing scoreboard systems do not adequately address.
Innovation Solution
A compact, ergonomic handheld scoreboard controller with a curved design featuring a screen and multiple buttons for easy operation, including undo functionality, innings, strikes, outs, and runs tracking, connected via wireless communication for efficient data transfer to scoreboards or servers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional scoreboard systems are used, then scoring can be performed, but the scoring process is slow and error-prone due to lack of efficient data entry mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service through automatic data synchronization between the handheld controller and scoreboard. The controller automatically transmits scored data to the scoreboard and receives confirmation, eliminating manual data entry errors and reducing scoring time through automated feedback loops.
Solution Approach 2:
The scoreboard displays real-time feedback to the controller, confirming successful data reception and synchronization. This feedback mechanism ensures scoring accuracy by allowing immediate verification of transmitted data and enables rapid correction of any transmission errors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more buttons and controls are added to the scoreboard controller, then more functionality is available, but the device becomes more complex and harder to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The handheld controller is designed as a multi-functional device that can score various sports (baseball, softball, basketball, volleyball) using the same interface. Each sport mode activates specific button functions, providing comprehensive scoring capability while maintaining a consistent, simple user interface across different sports.
Solution Approach 2:
Different buttons on the controller are assigned context-specific functions based on the selected sport mode. The controller interface dynamically adjusts button labels and functions to match the current sport, providing localized optimization for each sport while maintaining overall device simplicity.
3Volume of moving object
If the scoreboard controller is made compact for portability, then ease of carrying is improved, but button placement and screen size may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The controller housing features an ergonomic curved design that conforms to the natural shape of a hand. This curvature allows the controller to fit comfortably in the palm, maintaining compact dimensions while positioning all buttons and the screen within easy reach of the user's fingers, thus preserving accessibility despite the reduced size.
Data Source
AI summary
There is a hand held device for controlling a scoreboard comprising a housing having a plurality of faces comprising front face, a right side face, a back face, a left side face, a bottom face, and a top face. There is a display screen coupled to the housing wherein there are a plurality of buttons coupled to the housing. There is also at least one face of said plurality of faces is curved.