Folding Racket Assembly with Elastic Net for Catch and Throw
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing racket-type games do not allow users to catch and throw objects effectively, lacking the ability to both catch and return items with accuracy and power.
Innovation Solution
A folding racket assembly with U-shaped frame members and a net connecting them, featuring rotatable handles and elastic connectors that allow for 360-degree rotation, enabling the assembly to catch objects and then throw them with exponential acceleration when the handles are pulled apart.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional racket-type games are used, then hitting capability is provided, but catching and throwing capability is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The racket assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: catching objects with the net, holding objects in the catch area, and throwing objects using the elastic connector mechanism. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by enabling catch and throw capabilities without requiring separate devices, while the integrated design keeps the overall structure manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The racket assembly incorporates dynamic elements including rotatable handles that can rotate 360 degrees, flexible elastic connectors that expand and contract, and a net that can be tensioned and relaxed. These dynamic components enable the racket to transition between catching and throwing modes, improving versatility while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
2Force
If the net is stretched to throw objects with power, then throwing power increases, but the net may exceed its elastic expansion limit
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic connector is designed with specific physical parameters including a defined maximum expansion distance and material properties. The net and frame geometry are configured so that during normal throwing operations, the connector expands within its elastic limits. This parameter optimization allows the system to generate sufficient throwing power while preventing damage from excessive stretching.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic connector serves as a cushioning element that stores and releases energy controllably. By designing the connector with appropriate elasticity and maximum expansion limits, the system prevents sudden snap-back or damage while still providing powerful throwing action. The connector acts as a buffer between the frame members, managing force transmission safely.
3Measurement precision
If the handles are made rotatable for 360 degrees, then catching accuracy improves, but handle attachment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handles are designed to rotate freely 360 degrees around the frame members, allowing dynamic adjustment during catching and throwing motions. This rotational freedom enables precise angle control for catching accuracy without requiring complex locking or positioning mechanisms, as the handles can naturally orient themselves during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle attachment system is segmented into simple rotational joints rather than a single complex mechanism. Each handle can rotate independently around its respective frame member, simplifying the attachment design while maintaining the 360-degree rotational capability needed for accurate catching and throwing.
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 precise catching and throwing of various objects with increased accuracy and power, transitioning seamlessly between open and closed positions for efficient gameplay.
Implementation Method 1
the one or more connectors are formed of elastic or non-elastic cords connecting the first and second frame members
Implementation Method 2
when the first and second frame members are pulled away from one another so that the net is taut, the elastic cords are expanded to a distance that is less than the maximum expansion distance
Data Source
AI summary
Described is a catch and throw folding racket assembly. The racket assembly is formed of a first and second frame member, each having a rotatable handle attached thereto. The frame members are connected with one another with an elastic connected to frame out a catch area. Connected with and between the frame members is a net that is adapted to catch an object within the catch area, such as a ball. In use, a user can catch the ball within the net. When the frame members are pulled apart, the ball is brought out of the frame assembly in a throw motion as the net straightens and is pulled taut to expel the ball.