Elastic Reflector Ball Return Device with Adjustable Tension
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ball return devices are limited in accuracy and versatility, often requiring users to expend unnecessary time and energy to retrieve the ball, and are typically designed for specific sports with restricted return trajectories.
Innovation Solution
A ball return device featuring a rim connected to an elastic reflector with adjustable tension, angle, and shape, allowing for a wide range of return trajectories and adaptable to various sports, with a frame design that includes a triangular footprint for stability and adjustability in height and orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a flat, springy net surface is used to return the ball, then the device can provide a rebound function, but the return accuracy is insufficient and requires users to spend unnecessary time and energy chasing the ball
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the flat net surface with a curved, conical reflector surface. This curvature allows the reflector to guide the ball along a controlled arc trajectory, improving return accuracy by directing the ball precisely back to the user rather than relying on simple rebound from a flat surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an adjustable tension mechanism that modifies the physical parameters of the reflector surface. By changing tension, the reflector's shape and elasticity can be adjusted to optimize ball return characteristics for different ball types and user preferences, thereby improving reliability of ball return.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed design is used for ball return devices, then the structure is simple, but the device is limited in application to one or few sports and has restricted return trajectory
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates multiple adjustable components including tension mechanisms, rotating bases, and height-adjustable legs. These dynamic elements allow the device to adapt its structure and function for different sports and training scenarios, transforming a static device into a versatile multi-sport tool.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the device with universal applicability across multiple sports through its adjustable reflector angles, variable tension settings, and configurable height. This multi-functionality allows the same device to serve basketball, tennis, soccer, and other ball sports without requiring sport-specific modifications.
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 device provides enhanced accuracy and variety in ball return trajectories, allowing for efficient and adaptable training across multiple sports, reducing user effort and enhancing training efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic reflector having a first open end and an opposite second end, wherein the first end is connected to the rim
Implementation Method 2
a tension cord is used to connect the vertex to the frame, which pulls the vertex of the reflector away from the rim and provides tension to the reflector
Data Source
AI summary
A ball return device having a frame and an elastic reflector supported on the frame. The elastic reflector has a first open end that is connected to a rim, and an opposite second end that is downwardly tapered from the first end to form a vertex at the second end. The elastic reflector is connected at the second end to the frame by a tension cord that supplies tension to the elastic reflector. The degree of tension in the tension cord, as well as the location of the attachment point of the tension cord on the frame, are adjustable.