Elastic Filament Racket for Accessible Pitch and Catch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Games of pitch and catch require a certain level of skill and athletic ability for both propelling and catching a projectile, which can be challenging for younger or less skilled players, limiting accessibility and enjoyment.
Innovation Solution
A game system featuring rackets with a netted rim and a resilient projectile connected by an elastic filament, allowing players to catch and propel the projectile using a hook and loop mechanism, enhancing dexterity and ease of play.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional pitch and catch games are played without assistance devices, then the game requires high skill and athletic ability, but this limits accessibility for younger or less skilled players
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a resilient filament as an intermediary element that connects the projectile to the racket. This filament acts as a mediator that assists less skilled players by providing elastic propulsion during the pitch phase and maintaining control during the catch phase, thereby reducing the skill threshold while preserving the game's appeal across different ability levels
2Ease of operation
If the racket design is simplified for easier use, then accessibility improves, but the dexterity and coordination benefits may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The racket is segmented into distinct functional components: a rim structure, a net attached to the rim, and a resilient filament connection system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally - the net for catching, the filament for elastic propulsion - while keeping the overall device relatively simple and accessible to young players
3Ease of operation
If the projectile is made more controllable for beginners, then ease of play increases, but the challenge and skill development opportunities may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The projectile system employs dynamic characteristics through the resilient filament that can stretch and recoil. This dynamic behavior provides forgiveness for imperfect catches while maintaining reliable propulsion, allowing beginners to experience success even with variable skill levels while still achieving consistent projectile flight when properly executed
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
The game system improves dexterity and hand-eye coordination while making it easier for players of various skill levels to engage in pitch and catch, promoting enjoyment and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
The sling comprises a resilient filament or elongated elastic member formed into a loop. In use, the loop is engaged with the hook, the body is drawn away from the hook causing the filament to be stretched. The body is released causing the filament to propel the projectile.
Data Source
AI summary
A game includes a pair of rackets for propelling and catching a projectile. Each racket includes a rim for supporting a net between its inner periphery and one of a hook and a loop on an outer periphery. The projectile includes a generally circular member and an elastic band. The band carries the other of the hook and loop which cooperates with the racket for propelling the projectile. The racket may be positioned to catch the propelled projectile in the net.