Sliding Cartridge Pitch Trainer for Throw Mechanics Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise devices for pitch/throw-based sports do not adequately address both muscle strengthening and proper throwing technique, specifically in terms of power, arm path, accuracy, and repeatability.
Innovation Solution
A pitching training device with an elongated shaft, grip member, weight member, sliding cartridge, and elastic band assemblies that resist movement, providing feedback through visual and audible indicators to improve throwing mechanics and power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If existing exercise devices are used to strengthen muscles, then muscle tone is maintained, but power and mechanics components of throwing technique are not addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The training device combines multiple functions into a single apparatus: it provides resistance for muscle strengthening, visual feedback for arm path mechanics, and adjustable resistance levels for different throwing phases. This multi-functional design addresses both muscle tone maintenance and throwing technique development simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses a dynamic resistance system where elastic bands provide variable resistance that changes throughout the throwing motion. The sliding cartridge moves along the shaft to adjust resistance levels, and the elastic bands stretch and retract to simulate the dynamic nature of actual throwing mechanics
2Power
If resistance is added to strengthen muscles, then power is improved, but proper throwing mechanics cannot be felt or understood
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates visual feedback through a sliding cartridge that moves along a marked shaft, providing real-time information about the user's arm path and throwing mechanics. This feedback system allows users to understand and correct their technique while working against resistance
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding cartridge acts as an intermediary between the user's throwing motion and the resistance provided by elastic bands. It translates the complex mechanics of throwing into visible positional changes along the shaft, making it easier to understand proper technique
3Adaptability or versatility
If a complex training device is designed to address both power and mechanics, then throwing technique is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional segments: the shaft with measurement markings, the sliding cartridge for visual feedback, the elastic bands for resistance, and the weight member for added mass. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while keeping the overall design manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding cartridge is positioned within the shaft structure, and the elastic bands are contained within the cartridge assembly. This nested arrangement consolidates multiple components into a compact form factor, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining functionality
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
Enhances muscle strength and improves throwing technique by resisting movement with elastic bands, offering feedback on proper throwing mechanics and power.
Implementation Method 1
An elastic band assembly is positioned on the sliding cartridge and has one end coupled to the sliding cartridge and another end configured to be couplable to one of the first stopper and the second stopper. When the elastic band assembly is coupled to one of the first stopper and the second stopper, the elastic band assembly resists movement of the sliding cartridge along the elongated shaft.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for training a throw includes an elongated shaft with a first end and a second end, a grip member coupled to the first end, a weight member coupled to the second end, a first stopper positioned on the elongated shaft, and a second stopper positioned on the elongated shaft at a distance from the first stopper. A sliding cartridge is positioned around the elongated shaft and is slidable along the shaft between the first stopper and the second stopper. An elastic band assembly is positioned on the sliding cartridge and has one end coupled to the sliding cartridge and another end configured to be removably couplable to one of the first stopper and the second stopper. When the elastic band assembly is coupled to one of the first stopper and the second stopper, the elastic band assembly resists movement of the sliding cartridge along the elongated shaft.