Movable Foot Support for Swimming Pool Starting Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current starting blocks for swimming pools, particularly during backstroke competitions, face inefficiencies due to the positioning and friction of a swimmer's feet on the pool wall, leading to suboptimal thrust and potential sliding, with existing solutions either being poorly stable or not adjustable, and existing non-slip solutions limiting pool aesthetics and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A starting block with a movable foot support system that adjusts to form an inclined step for optimal foot positioning during the thrust phase, which can be easily moved to a non-obstructive position post-start, allowing for customizable fit and efficient muscle exertion, and can be automated for safety and compliance with regulations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the head vertical wall of the swimming pool is made non-slippery to prevent sliding during backstroke start, then the friction between swimmer's feet and wall is improved, but the pleasantness of the wall to touch and ease of cleaning deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the foot support function from the pool wall by introducing a separate support means (such as a plate or step) that is connected to the starting block. This segmented approach allows the pool wall to remain smooth and easy to clean, while the detachable support means provides the necessary friction and grip for the swimmer's feet during backstroke start.
Solution Approach 2:
The support means acts as an intermediary element between the swimmer's feet and the pool wall. It transfers the thrust force from the swimmer to the starting block and ultimately to the pool structure, while providing the necessary friction surface for effective propulsion without requiring the pool wall itself to be non-slippery.
2Productivity
If the head wall of the swimming pool is inclined to allow optimal foot positioning at 90° during upward thrust, then the efficiency of muscle effort is improved, but the ability to perform subsequent turns deteriorates as the wall must remain vertical and free from obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The support means is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be positioned at an inclined angle during backstroke start to optimize foot placement and thrust efficiency, then moved to a vertical position afterward to maintain compliance with competition regulations and enable proper turning maneuvers.
Solution Approach 2:
The support means is positioned and configured in advance of the start to provide optimal foot positioning and thrust angle. After the swimmer completes the start, the support means is moved or removed to restore the wall to its required vertical state, allowing the swimmer to perform turns according to competition rules.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed support device is provided for the feet during backstroke start, then the positioning stability is improved, but the adjustability to suit various swimmer needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support means incorporates adjustable elements that allow it to be configured for different swimmer preferences and body types. The connection between the support means and starting block can be adjusted to provide stable positioning while accommodating variations in swimmer anatomy and technique.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a support device connected by belts is used to support the swimmer's feet, then the adaptability to various swimmer needs is improved, but the stability of the device deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the support function from flexible belt connections and implements it through a rigid or semi-rigid support means (such as a plate or step) that is structurally integrated with the starting block. This segmentation provides both the necessary adjustability for different swimmers and the structural stability required for reliable support during the start.
Data Source
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AI summary
A starting block (10) for swimming pools comprising a base portion (12), constrainable to the perimetrical structure of the swimming pool at one of its head vertical walls, an upper walkable portion (14), supported by the base portion (12), and one or more handgrips (16). To the starting block (10) there is operatively connected a means (18) for supporting the feet of the swimmer, provided with a moving system which allows such support means (18) to move between a first operating position, wherein such support means (18) leans against the head vertical wall so as to form a step which is inclined with respect to such head vertical wall and facing upwards, and a second rest position, wherein such support means (18) is outside the swimming pool and does not represent an obstacle for the swimmers who are inside the swimming pool or on the starting block (10).