Modular Sports Goal Backstop with Adjustable Brackets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backstops for sports goals are often specific to particular sports or goal sizes, require tools for installation, and are not easily transferable, leading to inefficiencies in retrieving missed projectiles and potential property damage.
Innovation Solution
A modular backstop system with adjustable brackets and lacing cords that can attach to various goal frames and nets, allowing for easy setup without tools and adaptability to different goal sizes, featuring a material implement with a goal acceptance aperture and support structures to extend beyond the goal edge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional backstops are designed for specific sports or goal sizes, then they can effectively stop projectiles for that particular application, but they cannot be transferred or adapted to other sports goals
Solution Approach 1:
The backstop system is designed with universal components that can be adapted to multiple sports goals. The frame structure includes adjustable elements and standardized attachment points that work across different goal types (soccer, hockey, lacrosse, etc.), allowing one backstop design to serve multiple functions and sports applications without requiring sport-specific customization
Solution Approach 2:
The backstop incorporates adjustable and modular components that can be dynamically reconfigured for different goal sizes and types. The frame members can be repositioned, and attachment mechanisms can be adjusted to accommodate varying goal dimensions, enabling the same backstop structure to adapt to different sports applications as needed
2Ease of operation
If traditional backstops require tools for installation, then they can provide secure attachment, but they cannot be set up quickly or without specialized tools
Solution Approach 1:
The backstop system employs self-installing attachment mechanisms that do not require external tools. The quick-attach clips and snap-fit connections are designed to be installed and secured by hand alone, allowing users to set up the backstop without needing specialized installation tools while still achieving reliable attachment to the goal frame
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is divided into modular segments with standardized interfaces. Each connection point uses independent quick-attach mechanisms that can be installed separately by hand, allowing for tool-free assembly while maintaining secure attachment through distributed connection points across the goal frame
3Productivity
If missed projectiles are allowed to travel beyond the goal edge, then play continues without interruption, but property damage can occur and projectiles are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The backstop intercepts projectiles that would otherwise travel beyond the goal and cause property damage or be lost. By converting the harmful trajectory into a beneficial containment, the backstop redirects these missed shots to be safely caught and retrieved, transforming a potential harm into an opportunity to maintain projectile inventory and prevent damage
Data Source
AI summary
A backstop for placement around a goal to stop sport projectiles from traveling beyond the outer edge of the goal, the backstop includes a material implement having a goal acceptance aperture located substantially central to the bottom edge and extending towards the top edge. The backstop includes an attachment mechanism that secures the material implement to the goal. The backstop further includes at least one bracket that is operable to attach to the goal frame. A support structure extends from the at least one bracket and is operable to support the material implement to extend beyond the outer edge of the goal.