Illuminated Paddle Light Pipe Handle Weight Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Paddles used in sports and recreational games face challenges in maintaining weight and feel similar to traditional paddles while incorporating light sources and electronics, as the addition of batteries and LEDs increases weight and can alter the 'feel' of the paddle.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a light pipe optically coupled to light sources within the handle of the paddle, which extends around the perimeter, along with internal strength members defining cavities to manage weight distribution and maintain balance, and using sensors to adjust illumination based on movement and contact with the ball.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If light sources and electronics are added to the paddle, then illumination and feedback functionality are improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the light sources and electronics from the paddle face and relocates them to the handle portion. This separation allows the paddle face to maintain its traditional lightweight structure while the handle accommodates the necessary illumination components, thereby reducing overall weight compared to integrating all components into the paddle body.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent nests the light sources, batteries, and electronics within the handle portion structure. By utilizing the handle's existing volume and contours to house these components, the design avoids adding excessive external bulk and weight, effectively integrating multiple functions into a compact configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If light sources and electronics are added to the paddle, then illumination and feedback functionality are improved, but the feel of the paddle is altered
Solution Approach 1:
By extracting the electronic components from the paddle face and relocating them to the handle, the patent preserves the traditional feel and composition of the paddle face where the player makes contact. The handle, which is already a structural component, absorbs the added weight and complexity, maintaining the paddle's overall play characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating the electronic components and light sources specifically in the handle portion rather than distributing them throughout the paddle. This localized approach ensures that the paddle face maintains its original tactile properties and response characteristics, while the handle provides the necessary technological features.
3Strength
If internal strength members are added to define cavities, then structural strength is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates internal strength members strategically at specific locations within the paddle structure where strength is most needed, rather than uniformly throughout. These localized reinforcement elements provide necessary structural integrity while minimizing overall weight by leaving other areas lighter and more responsive.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the paddle structure into distinct functional zones with different material densities and structural characteristics. The handle portion contains the electronic components and has its own structural reinforcement, while the paddle face maintains a lighter, more responsive construction. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function.
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 solution allows for customizable and unique illumination without compromising the weight and feel of traditional paddles, providing feedback and training aids through adjustable light modes and colors responsive to paddle movement and contact.
Implementation Method 1
a light pipe disposed within at least a portion of the channel of the frame, wherein the light pipe is optically coupled to the at least one light source
Data Source
AI summary
A paddle includes a frame comprising a paddle portion, a handle portion extending from the paddle portion, a light source disposed on a perimeter of the paddle portion, and a power source and electronics disposed within the handle portion, wherein the power source is electrically coupled to the light source, and the electronics are configured to control operation of the light source.