Lacrosse Sidewall Adjustment Bracket with Spring Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lacrosse equipment, particularly the distance between the sidewalls of the lacrosse head, often becomes non-compliant with league rules due to compression during use, risking disqualification during random inspections.
Innovation Solution
An adjustment device comprising a base bracket, a secondary bracket, and an adjustment member, such as a resilient extension or a rotatable rod, which allows for the repositioning of sidewalls to maintain compliance with dimensional requirements, featuring protection members to prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lacrosse head is used during face-off, then the stick can push against the ground for leverage, but the pressure compresses the lacrosse head causing the dimensions to become non-compliant with league rules
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment device applies a preliminary expanding force to the sidewalls using springs or threaded mechanisms, creating a pre-compression counteraction that resists the compressive forces applied during face-off. This preliminary anti-action maintains the sidewall dimensions within compliant ranges even when force is applied during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment device incorporates adjustable mechanisms (threaded rods, springs) that allow the sidewall spacing to be dynamically modified. Users can adjust the expansion force and spacing to compensate for compression during different operational conditions, transforming a static structure into a dynamically adaptable one.
2Manufacturing precision
If the lacrosse head dimensions are maintained at the maximum compliant width, then league rule compliance is ensured, but the head becomes more susceptible to compression deformation during use
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment device applies a preliminary expanding force to counteract the expected compression during use. By pre-positioning the sidewalls at a slightly expanded dimension and applying continuous counter-compression force through springs or threaded mechanisms, the device compensates for deformation and maintains stable, compliant dimensions throughout operation.
3Manufacturing precision
If adjustment mechanisms are added to the lacrosse head, then dimensional compliance can be maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment device is segmented into separate functional components: brackets that attach to the head, adjustment members (threaded rods or springs) that provide the expanding force, and locking mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies installation and maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment device incorporates self-adjusting features such as spring mechanisms that automatically compensate for compression, and threaded rods that can be easily adjusted by the user without specialized tools. The design allows users to service and adjust the device themselves, reducing the need for complex professional maintenance.
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 device ensures the lacrosse head maintains the required dimensions, reducing the risk of disqualification by allowing adjustable and secure positioning of the sidewalls, while protecting the equipment from wear and damage.
Implementation Method 1
The resilient extension may be a compression spring configured to apply force to move the base bracket and secondary bracket in opposite directions
Implementation Method 2
The rod may be threaded. The rod includes a rotatable handle and when the handle is rotated, the rod extends such that the base bracket and secondary bracket move in a direction away from each other
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an adjustment device for use in adjusting walls of athletic equipment that includes a base bracket defining an aperture secured around one end of a rod or resilient member, and a secondary bracket defining a corresponding aperture secured around an opposite end of the rod or resilient member. The base bracket and secondary bracket each include a receiving portion configured to receive and lock walls of the athletic equipment. In one form, a knob or arm is secured to the rod such that the secondary bracket is moved in a direction away from the base bracket. The base bracket and secondary bracket may include at least one protection member and/or the receiving portion of the base bracket and secondary bracket may include a barrier member to protect the walls of the athletic equipment.