In-Goal Ball Return Lacing System for Net Attachment

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current in-goal ball return devices are inefficient, as they often require significant time and effort to retrieve balls from goals, especially when target devices block the entrance, and existing solutions can hinder gameplay or get caught in goal netting.

Innovation Solution

A lacing system that secures a ball return device to the goal net mesh using a lacing cord threaded through closed loops, allowing for easy attachment and detachment, preventing balls from getting caught and allowing for efficient ball retrieval without obstructing gameplay.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a target device is placed in the goal entrance to block shots, then shooting accuracy is improved, but ball retrieval becomes difficult and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshooting accuracyVSAvoidball retrieval time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The ball return device is divided into a modular lacing system with separate components: closed loops attached to the device, lacing cord for threading, and attachment points on the net. This segmentation allows the device to be easily attached and detached from the goal netting, enabling quick ball retrieval without removing the entire target device or goal structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If a ball return device is integrated into the goal netting, then ball retrieval efficiency is improved, but the device may get caught in the netting and obstruct gameplay

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveball retrieval efficiencyVSAvoidobstruction of gameplay
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The lacing system provides dynamic attachment where the ball return device can be securely fastened to the netting during use, then easily detached when needed. The lacing cord threaded through closed loops allows for quick release mechanisms, enabling the device to transition between secured and removed states without obstructing gameplay or getting caught in the netting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Speed

If a mechanized ball return device is used, then ball retrieval speed is improved, but device complexity and difficulty of operation increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveball retrieval speedVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ball return device utilizes the existing goal netting structure and simple lacing mechanisms to achieve ball retrieval functionality without requiring complex mechanized systems. The lacing cord and closed loops create a self-service attachment system that leverages the natural tension and structure of the netting, eliminating the need for motors, sensors, or complex mechanical components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Productivity

If a non-removable ball return device is installed, then ball retrieval functionality is improved, but adaptability and ease of removal decrease

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveball retrieval functionalityVSAvoidremovability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The lacing system incorporates pre-attached closed loops on the ball return device and predetermined attachment points on the netting, allowing for rapid connection without complex alignment or preparation. This preliminary preparation of attachment points enables the device to be quickly installed and removed while maintaining secure functionality during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11701562B2In-goal ball return or collection device
Publication Date: 2023.07.18 KAPSALIS JEFFREY CHRISTIAN
  • US11701562B2 patent drawing
  • US11701562B2 patent drawing
  • US11701562B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An in-goal ball return device, the ball return device is a material implement having a front edge, side edges, and a rear edge. The device is configured for attachment within a goal, the goal having a supporting net mesh. The device has a plurality of closed loops disposed along the rear edge and side edges. The device includes a lacing cord for threading through any number of the closed loops and the net to secure the material implement to the net mesh. The device forms a continuous angled surface between the front and closed portion of the goal when attached.