Compact Field Game Lane System Using Segmented Markers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional baseball and golf require large spaces and costly equipment, making them unsuitable for safe and convenient play in non-specialized areas like private yards or public parks, and pose risks to nearby individuals.
Innovation Solution
A field game system that includes game lane indicators, hitting zone markers, pitching zone indicators, and running distance markers, allowing players to run and hit a ball while outfielders attempt to catch it, enhancing ball pitching, striking, and catching skills while providing aerobic conditioning in a compact and space-efficient setup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If baseball or golf is played using traditional equipment and rules, then players can develop ball striking skills and coordination, but the game requires large amounts of space and costly equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the traditional baseball field into a compact linear game lane marked by cones, reducing the required playing area from a large diamond-shaped field to a narrow corridor that can fit in small backyards or parks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified copy of baseball elements (pitcher, batter, bases, outfielders) using inexpensive cones and a smaller ball, maintaining the essential gameplay mechanics while eliminating the need for expensive traditional equipment and large spaces
2Adaptability or versatility
If baseball or golf is played in non-specialized areas like private yards or public parks, then the game becomes more accessible, but nearby people are at risk of being hit by balls and suffering serious physical damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the dangerous elements of traditional baseball (high-velocity balls, large flying distances) and replaces them with a smaller, slower ball and a confined game lane, eliminating the hazard to spectators while maintaining the sport's essence
Solution Approach 2:
The patent confines the ball's trajectory to a localized game lane defined by cones, ensuring the ball stays within a controlled area and reduces the risk of hitting nearby people, while still allowing for aerobic running and skill development
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional baseball equipment is purchased, then players can play the full baseball game, but the equipment is excessively costly and requires large storage space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes each cone multi-functional, serving as a base, a base marker, an outfielder marker, or a boundary indicator depending on the game situation, eliminating the need for multiple specialized pieces of equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, durable baseball equipment with inexpensive, simple objects like cones and a smaller ball that can be easily replaced if lost or damaged, significantly reducing both initial cost and storage requirements
Data Source
AI summary
A field game system and method is disclosed by which multiple players can play a game that combines ball pitching, striking and catching with running. The system includes a visual indicator defining an elongated game lane. A hitting zone indicator may be provided at a proximal end of the game lane, delineating a hitting zone. At least one pitching zone indicator may be provided to indicate a pitcher's position. At least one running distance indicator may be provided along the game lane to indicate one or more running distances. The field game system may further include a standing mat, ball and club or other ball-hitting device for striking the ball beyond the hitting zone.