Foldable Ball Pitching Device Frame Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ball pitching devices cannot be easily stored when not in use, occupying significant space and lacking in stability and functionality for user convenience.
Innovation Solution
A ball pitching device with a foldable frame design, incorporating PVC sheets, hinges, connection sockets, support rods, and infrared sensors, along with side nets and a collection basket, to reduce space occupancy, enhance stability, and improve gameplay experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the ball pitching device uses a fixed frame structure to ensure stability during use, then the stability is improved, but the device occupies significant space and cannot be stored when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure is designed with hinged connections between first elbows and second elbows, allowing the frame to transition between a stable unfolded state during use and a compact folded state for storage. The hinged joints enable dynamic reconfiguration of the frame geometry, transforming the static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to different operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is divided into multiple segments including first elbows, second elbows, and connecting members with hinged joints. This segmentation allows each component to move independently relative to others, enabling the overall structure to fold into a compact configuration while maintaining structural integrity and stability during deployment.
2Ease of operation
If the ball pitching device uses a foldable frame design to reduce space occupancy, then the ease of storage is improved, but the stability and firmness of the structure may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The hinged joint design allows the frame to be easily folded for storage by rotating the second elbows relative to the first elbows, while during use, the same hinged structure provides stable geometric configuration. The dynamic capability enables the structure to switch between compact and stable states as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is pre-configured with hinged connections and elbow joints that are designed to naturally lock into stable positions when unfolded. The preliminary design of the joint geometry and connection points ensures that when the frame is set up for use, it automatically achieves a stable, firm configuration without requiring additional fastening actions.
3Ease of operation
If the ball pitching device uses multiple hinged joints and connection sockets to enable folding, then the ease of storage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinged joints and connection sockets serve multiple functions: they enable the frame to fold for compact storage, provide stable structural connections during use, and allow for easy assembly and disassembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for each purpose, thereby managing complexity despite the presence of multiple joints.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinged connections provide dynamic movement capability that simplifies the folding operation, while the same dynamic joints maintain structural integrity when stationary. This eliminates the need for complex locking mechanisms or separate fastening systems, as the hinged joints themselves provide both movement and stability functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A ball pitching device includes a frame including three first elbows and four second elbows, an upper PVC sheet and a lower PVC sheet below the upper PVC sheet and connected with the upper PVC sheet, the upper PVC sheet is connected with the frame, a ball storage space is formed between the lower PVC sheet and the upper PVC sheet, the upper PVC sheet is configured with a hole, the three first elbows are connected in sequence, two adjacent first elbows are arranged horizontally and hinged to each other, the remaining first elbow extends obliquely and is hinged to the two horizontal first elbows, two second elbows are respectively hinged with the two horizontal first elbows at two ends of the frame, another second elbow is hinged at a connection between the two horizontal first elbows, and the remaining second elbow is hinged to the oblique first elbow.