Jump Training Apparatus With Self-Resetting Rotational Vanes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing jump training apparatuses do not allow athletes to perform repeated measured jumps, as they require time-consuming resetting of vanes, limiting muscle training and performance improvement.

Innovation Solution

A jump training apparatus with a notched post and adjustable rotational vanes that automatically reset, allowing athletes to perform sets of measured jumps by mounting the apparatus to a wall or ceiling, enabling quick and predictable interaction with vanes of varying lengths.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the apparatus uses a plurality of rotatable vanes mounted on a post for measuring vertical jump, then the measurement function is achieved, but the apparatus requires time-consuming manual resetting of vanes after each use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevertical jump measurementVSAvoidtime for resetting vanes
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically resets the vanes to their initial positions after each measurement cycle without requiring manual intervention. The controller monitors which vanes were activated during the jump and automatically returns them to their starting positions, enabling continuous repeated measurements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the purely mechanical manual resetting process with an automated control system that uses sensors and actuators to detect and reset vane positions electronically, eliminating the need for manual operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If the apparatus allows repeated measured jumps for muscle training, then productivity is improved, but the device complexity increases due to automatic resetting mechanism

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of repeated jumpsVSAvoidautomatic resetting mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller serves multiple functions: it detects which vanes were activated during the jump, determines the measurement result, and automatically resets the vanes to their initial positions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each task.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses sensors to detect the position and activation state of each vane, provides feedback to the controller, which then automatically adjusts the vanes back to their initial positions based on this feedback information.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of operation

If the vanes are arranged horizontally and are free to rotate about the post, then the measurement capability is provided, but the apparatus may tip over during use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevane rotation for measurementVSAvoidstability of apparatus
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs a counterbalancing mechanism that offsets the rotational movement of the vanes, preventing the post from tipping over. This could involve counterweights or a balanced mounting structure that maintains stability during vane rotation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses vanes of unequal lengths arranged in a specific asymmetric pattern around the post, which provides both measurement capability and inherent stability by distributing the rotational forces in a balanced manner that prevents tipping.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Data Source

PatentUS11484742B1Jump training apparatus and method
Publication Date: 2022.11.01 BACHMAN BLAINE LYTLE
  • US11484742B1 patent drawing
  • US11484742B1 patent drawing
  • US11484742B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A jump training apparatus and method designed to allow athletes to perform sets of standing vertical jumps. The apparatus is comprised of a mount, a T-tube, a notched post, and a plurality of vertically hanging rotational vanes of varying lengths. Each rotational vane has a longitudinal member with a planar surface. Each rotational vane has a cylindrical opening with a stop member. The plurality of rotational vanes are placed over the notched post by aligning the stop member with a channel cut in the notched post. When the stop member contacts the edges of the channel, it causes the rotational member to stop rotating. A central bump in the channel further inhibits motion.