Lacrosse Head Aperture Segmentation for Net Stringing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lacrosse heads have small or awkwardly shaped openings that make it difficult to string the net and affect the performance of the stick, including stiffness, flexibility, and aerodynamics.
Innovation Solution
The design features a lacrosse head with a frame, sidewalls, and a scoop that includes a plurality of apertures with rounded end portions and a center portion, providing at least 30% void area, facilitating easier net stringing and improving aerodynamics and stiffness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional small or awkwardly shaped openings are used in the lacrosse head, then the frame structure is simplified, but the ease of net stringing deteriorates and performance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture is divided into multiple notches (first notch, second notch, and center portion) along its length. This segmentation allows the net string to be inserted through multiple discrete sections rather than through a single complex opening, significantly improving ease of stringing while maintaining a relatively simple overall frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The aperture is designed with features extending along the longitudinal axis of the lacrosse head (creating notches at different positions along the length). This dimensional approach transforms a two-dimensional hole into a three-dimensional structure with multiple access points, facilitating easier net stringing without compromising structural integrity.
2Strength
If conventional opening sizes and shapes are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but aerodynamic response and stiffness are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture dimensions and configuration are optimized to achieve specific aerodynamic characteristics and stiffness properties. By controlling the size, shape, and positioning of the notches and center portion, the design achieves improved aerodynamic response and stiffness while remaining manufacturable using conventional molding techniques.
3Strength
If larger void area is provided in the scoop, then aerodynamics and stiffness are improved, but structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture is strategically positioned in the scoop portion of the frame, concentrating the void area where it provides maximum aerodynamic benefit and stiffness improvement while minimizing impact on overall structural integrity. The distributed notch structure further allows local reinforcement where needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A lacrosse head is disclosed, comprising: a frame having a base, a pair of sidewalls extending from the base, and a scoop connecting the pair of sidewalls opposite the base, the scoop defining an aperture for receiving a portion of a net, wherein the aperture has an upper edge and a lower edge, the lower edge having a first notch, a second notch, and a center portion intermediate to the first notch and the second notch. Also disclosed is a lacrosse stick comprising: an elongated shaft having a butt end and a head end, and a port formed through the head end; and a head attachable to the shaft.