Golf Ball Elevator Mechanism for Comfortable Retrieval
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Golfers face discomfort and risk of falling while retrieving their golf balls from conventional hole cups, as they need to bend down, which can be challenging and hazardous, especially for those with back problems.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a motorized telescoping shaft assembly or gear/pulley system into the golf hole cup that elevates the golf ball to a comfortable height, allowing golfers to retrieve their balls without bending, using a rechargeable battery-powered mechanism actuated by the ball's weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If golfers retrieve golf balls from conventional hole cups by bending down, then they can access the balls, but they experience discomfort and risk of falling especially those with back problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension to ball retrieval by elevating the ball from the ground-level cup to an elevated platform. The cup is positioned in a hole in the ground, and when a ball is dropped in, it is retrieved from an elevated position (the top of the cup or a platform above ground level), transforming the retrieval action from a horizontal bending motion to a vertical reaching motion that does not require bending the back.
2Ease of operation
If a motorized telescoping shaft assembly is integrated into the hole cup to elevate the golf ball, then ball retrieval becomes easier and safer, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The golf ball elevator system is automatically triggered by the golf ball itself. When a golfer drops their ball into the cup, the ball's weight and position activate the elevation mechanism (either the telescoping shaft or gear/pulley system), which then automatically raises the ball to retrieval height. The system serves itself by using the ball as both the object to be moved and the trigger for movement, eliminating the need for separate controls or manual activation.
3Extent of automation
If a rechargeable battery-powered mechanism is used to elevate the golf ball, then automated retrieval is achieved, but the weight of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic mechanisms that can change their operational state. The telescoping shaft assembly can extend and retract, and the gear/pulley system can engage and disengage. These dynamic components allow the system to achieve automated ball elevation only when needed (when a ball is in the cup), while remaining compact and lightweight during normal operation. The battery-powered motor provides automated function only during the brief moment of ball retrieval, minimizing the impact of its weight on overall system portability.
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 golfers to conveniently and comfortably retrieve their golf balls at a higher elevation, reducing the risk of injury and discomfort, while also providing a portable and adaptable solution for use on various golf courses.
Implementation Method 1
using a rechargeable battery-powered mechanism actuated by the ball's weight
Implementation Method 2
actuated by the ball's weight
Data Source
AI summary
A golf ball elevator facilitates retrieval of a golf ball by a golfer after the golfer strokes the golf ball into a golf hole cup on a putting green of a golf course.