Omnidirectional Ball Launching System with Automated Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ball-launching machines for sports training are limited by their inability to provide continuous training without interruption, lack of adaptability to different playing surfaces, and inefficient ball collection and transport, restricting realistic simulation and usability on various field conditions.
Innovation Solution
An omnidirectional system equipped with independently actuated rollers, a net element for speed reduction and collection, and a framework with motors and sensors for customizable training, allowing simultaneous ball launch and collection, adjustable speed, and operation on various surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a ball-launching machine with limited capacity (200-250 balls) is used, then the machine can be compact and portable, but training must be interrupted to collect and reload balls
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically collects balls from the field and transports them back to the launching machine without human intervention. The collecting element with sensors detects balls and the transport mechanism automatically moves them, allowing continuous training without interruptions for manual ball collection and reloading
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares for continuous operation by pre-positioning the collecting element and transport mechanism ready to immediately retrieve balls as soon as they leave the launching area, ensuring no training time is lost
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed ball-launching machine is used, then the launching mechanism can be stable and precise, but the machine cannot adapt to different field conditions and surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that detect field conditions and surfaces in real-time, allowing the launching parameters to be dynamically adjusted. The omnidirectional movement capability also allows the machine to adapt its position and orientation based on field conditions while maintaining stable launching
3Productivity
If a traditional ball collection system is used, then the structure can be simple, but the ball collection and transport efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual ball collection with an automated mechanism featuring sensors that detect ball positions and a transport element that automatically moves balls back to the launching machine, significantly improving collection efficiency despite increased system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The transport element acts as an intermediary between the field area and the launching machine, efficiently moving balls through a dedicated channel without requiring manual intervention or complex external handling systems
4Productivity
If a ball-launching machine with large ball capacity (200-250 balls) is used, then continuous training is possible, but the machine becomes heavy and difficult to transport
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic ball collection and transport system eliminates the need for large onboard ball storage. The machine maintains a small ball supply and automatically replenishes it from the field, allowing continuous training with minimal ball capacity and reduced weight
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
Enables continuous, customizable, and realistic sports training on any surface, with efficient ball collection and transport, allowing multiple users to train simultaneously and adjust parameters for dynamic play simulation.
Implementation Method 1
a propelling system with two, independently actuated rollers, which allow expelling a ball at a speed of 150 km/h and affecting the rotation effect
Implementation Method 2
a net element for speed reduction and collection
Data Source
AI summary
An omnidirectional system (1) is described, for expelling and collecting balls, adapted to reproduce a real playing and/or training dynamics, such system (1) being equipped with at least one closing element (8) connected to at least one expelling device (2) of the system (1) arranged orthogonal to the expelling device (2) when expelling at least one ball from the system (1), the ball bouncing on an upper surface of the closing element (8) going towards at least one user; and with at least one net element (7) of at least one collecting element (3) of the system (1).