Modular Stick-Handling Trainer With Snap-Fit Assembly Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hockey training devices are cumbersome to assemble and disassemble, and their configurations are limited, leading to loose screw connections during use.
Innovation Solution
A modular training device composed of cross-members, support columns, and pins with snap-fit connections, allowing for easy assembly, disassembly, and reconfiguration, using elastic materials like plastics to ensure stability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If screw bolts are used to connect cross-members and support columns, then the device can be assembled, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and screw connections become loose during use
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into distinct functional elements: the pin with snap-fitting beads, the cylindrical protrusion with annular steps, and the cross-member openings. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function - the snap-fitting beads provide quick attachment while the annular steps ensure proper positioning and prevent loosening.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism transitions from static screw threads to a dynamic snap-fit system where the elastic beads can deform during insertion and then lock into place. This dynamic behavior enables quick assembly while maintaining secure connection during use.
2Ease of operation
If modular cross-members with end openings are used, then assembly and disassembly become easier, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pin serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a connector, a positioning element (through the annular steps), and a locking mechanism (through the snap-fitting beads). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby simplifying the overall structure despite the modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap-fitting beads are nested within the pin structure, and the pin itself is inserted through the cross-member and support column. This nested arrangement integrates multiple connection functions into a single compact component, reducing structural complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the support column height is increased for different sports, then the device becomes more versatile, but the structural stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The snap-fit connection provides dynamic stability that adapts to different column heights. The elastic beads maintain constant contact pressure with the support column regardless of height variations, ensuring stable connection whether the device is configured for ice hockey (shorter columns) or floorball/rural hockey (taller columns).
Solution Approach 2:
The connection parameters (snap-fit force, bead deformation) are designed to maintain optimal connection stability across a range of support column heights. This allows the same connection mechanism to provide stable attachment whether the total device height is optimized for ice hockey or extended for floorball applications.
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 modular design facilitates quick setup and teardown while maintaining structural stability, preventing interdependent movement and allowing for customizable configurations to accommodate various stick sports, ensuring the device remains secure and functional.
Implementation Method 1
The pin is made as a component part or a single-piece member... As the above-mentioned members are made of elastic material, for example, plastics, under the influence of external forces at a certain deformation of the cylindrical protrusion and the pin, it is possible to demount the members of the snap-fit.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention generally relates to training devices used in the stick sports, particularly hockey, floorball and rural hockey, to improve users or corresponding stick sport players stick-handling abilities. A training device comprises at least three cross-members (10) that are connected to each other by means of support columns (20) and said connection is provided by means of a pin (30).