One-Handed Catching Device With Dynamic Membrane
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sports and play equipment that allow catching and shooting of flying objects with one hand lack dynamics and the playful element, often requiring electrical support or being unable to catch and throw back objects simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A device featuring a membrane core that can be stretched or opened by hand pressure to catch and shoot objects, with a mechanism that allows for one-handed operation and includes a compression spring and ergonomic design for ease of use, enabling both catching and throwing without visible cues to opponents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional sports equipment (tennis rackets, badminton rackets) are used, then flying objects can be shot and hit back and forth, but the flying object cannot be caught
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a dynamic membrane that can change its state between open and closed configurations. When open, the membrane allows the flying object to pass through for shooting; when closed, it forms a catching surface. This dynamic transformation enables the single device to perform both catching and shooting functions, resolving the contradiction between catching capability and functional versatility.
2Ease of operation
If catching gloves or Velcro discs are used, then flying objects can be caught more easily, but the flying object cannot be thrown back with one hand
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the catching function and the shooting function into a single integrated device. The membrane structure serves dual purposes: when closed, it catches the flying object; when open, it allows the object to be shot back. This combination eliminates the need to switch between separate catching gloves and shooting rackets, enabling continuous one-handed operation and improving productivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If constructed play or sports equipment with one-handed catching and shooting capability is created, then functional versatility is improved, but dynamics or playful element is lacking and/or electrical support is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes the user's own hand movements to drive the membrane between open and closed states. The natural opening and closing of the hand automatically transforms the membrane configuration, eliminating the need for separate mechanical actuators or electrical systems. This self-service mechanism maintains mechanical simplicity while achieving one-handed dual functionality for catching and shooting.
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
Enables dynamic and playful one-handed catching and shooting of flying objects, suitable for individual, paired, or team play, with surprise elements and ergonomic design enhancing user experience and gameplay dynamics.
Implementation Method 1
The design is based on a bracket (9) which, thanks to the material used, is slightly stretched (10) and thus always returns to its original state. This circumstance is favored with an attached compression spring (11), which is necessary for catching a flying object.
Data Source
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AI summary
Play and sport device, by means of which a flying object can be both lobbed and caught one-handed thanks to a specially constructed diaphragm (1-8) which is tautened and fastened to the device, both in an embodiment according to numerals 9-18 and in an embodiment according to numerals 19-38. The abovementioned invention can be used both by one player (juggling, wall rebounding, hitting a target) and by two players, as a group or in teams.