Micro Adjustment Mechanism for Pitching Machine Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pitching and throwing machines lack the accuracy to precisely locate thrown balls, which is crucial for training in sports like baseball where precise pitching is essential, and for other sports where players need to catch or block balls in specific areas.
Innovation Solution
A micro adjustment mechanism with rotatable threaded pitch and yaw adjustment shafts, allowing for precise adjustments in the position of thrown balls along multiple planes, including horizontal and vertical axes, using oppositely-directed threads for fine-tuned control and a locking mechanism for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional pitching machines are used, then the device complexity is low, but the positioning accuracy of thrown balls is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is divided into multiple independent components: a first adjustment mechanism for horizontal positioning and a second adjustment mechanism for vertical positioning. Each mechanism includes separate adjustment shafts with threads that can be independently operated, allowing precise control of ball throw location without requiring an overly complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second adjustment mechanisms are nested within the housing structure of the pitching machine. The adjustment shafts are rotatably mounted within the housing, and the locking mechanism is integrated into the same structure. This nesting approach allows multiple adjustment functions to be contained within a compact form factor, improving positioning accuracy without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If micro adjustment mechanisms with multiple shafts are added, then the positioning accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first adjustment shaft and second adjustment shaft are combined within a single housing structure, sharing common mounting points and structural support. The locking mechanism serves both adjustment shafts simultaneously, locking them in place together. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components needed, allowing high adjustment precision without proportionally increasing mechanism complexity.
3Stability of the object's composition
If locking mechanism is implemented, then the stability of adjusted position is improved, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be engaged and disengaged by the operator through simple manual operation of the adjustment shafts. When the adjustment shafts are rotated to the desired position, the locking mechanism automatically secures them in place without requiring additional tools or complex procedures. This self-service approach maintains ease of operation while ensuring position stability during use.
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 the throwing machine to accurately position balls within or outside the strike zone, allowing for realistic training scenarios by allowing precise control over the trajectory and location of thrown balls, enhancing the training experience for athletes.
Implementation Method 1
a first micro adjustment shaft (40) and a second micro adjustment shaft (64) that are rotatably mounted
Data Source
AI summary
A machine for throwing balls is provided that can accurately adjust the vertical height or pitch and the lateral placement or yaw of balls being thrown. The machine includes a pitch housing, a threaded pitch adjustment shaft rotatably mounted to the pitch housing, a pitch yoke threadably mounted to the pitch adjustment shaft, a yaw housing to which the pitch housing is fixed, and a threaded yaw adjustment shaft rotatably mounted to the yaw housing. Also included is a yaw yoke mounted to the yaw housing and to the yaw adjustment shaft, and a stand to which the yaw housing is rotatably mounted.