Pickleball Paddle Storage with Integrated Collection Line

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for an efficient and convenient method to collect and store multiple pickleballs during play, as existing solutions do not adequately address the storage and transportation of these balls.

Innovation Solution

A pickleball collection and storage device comprising a paddle with a collection line, where the paddle is designed to be larger than the pickleballs and has a tapered shape for secure storage, and the collection line is coupled to the paddle, allowing pickleballs to be passed through the holes and secured, with additional features like a handle and tie-off for easy handling and transport.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If pickleballs are stored in traditional containers or bags, then balls can be transported, but balls may roll around, get lost, or be damaged during transport

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure storage of pickleballsVSAvoidstorage device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the paddle and storage device into a single integrated unit. The paddle serves dual functions: as a playing tool and as a storage container for multiple pickleballs. The balls are stored in recesses or compartments formed on the paddle surface, eliminating the need for separate storage containers and ensuring balls remain secure during transport.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The paddle is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a playing implement and as a storage device. The same object (paddle) that is used to hit the ball also functions as the container for storing multiple balls, reducing the number of separate items needed and simplifying transport.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If multiple pickleballs are collected during play, then sufficient balls are available for continuous play, but finding and collecting scattered balls becomes time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveefficiency of ball collectionVSAvoidtime to collect and retrieve balls
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The paddle is pre-equipped with multiple recesses or compartments designed to hold pickleballs. During play, balls can be quickly dropped into these pre-positioned storage areas on the paddle, eliminating the need to search for or manually organize balls after play. The storage structure is prepared in advance to facilitate rapid ball collection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The paddle's design allows balls to be easily deposited into storage recesses during normal play activities. The structure automatically holds and organizes balls as they are placed, requiring minimal manual intervention for collection and retrieval, thus saving time during gameplay.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If a simple storage method is used, then the device remains easy to operate, but balls may not be securely held during transport

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconvenience of ball storage and transportVSAvoidsecurity of ball retention
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The storage area on the paddle is divided into multiple separate recesses or compartments, each capable of holding an individual pickleball. This segmentation prevents balls from rolling into each other or falling off, while maintaining a simple overall structure that is easy to use. Each compartment acts as an independent retention zone.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11278769B2Pickleball collection and storage device
Publication Date: 2022.03.22 HOUGHTON KARIN
  • US11278769B2 patent drawing
  • US11278769B2 patent drawing
  • US11278769B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A pickleball collection and storage device includes a paddle, a collection line coupled to the paddle, and multiple pickleballs, where the collection line secures the pickleballs to the paddle by passing through at least two through-holes of each pickleball. A pickleball collection and storage device includes: a paddle having a generally rectangular face, rounded ends and tapered sides; a collection line coupled to the paddle, a notch including a lip and a tapered channel; and multiple pickleballs, where the collection line secures the pickleballs to the paddle by passing through at least two holes of each pickleball. A pickleball collection and storage device includes: a flat rectangular body; a collection line coupled to the body; and a carry handle coupled to the flat rectangular body, the carry handle including a loop of flexible string, where the flat rectangular body includes a tie-off that accepts a portion of the collection line.