Pitching Machine Control for Fast Multi-Axis Pitch Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current arm style pitching machines require cumbersome and time-consuming manual adjustments for pitch speed, height, and lack the ability to adjust horizontally, making it impractical to change settings between pitches, and existing solutions with hydraulic components are complex and difficult for users to operate.
Innovation Solution
A control system with electrically operated pitch parameter adjustment actuators and position tracking linear scales that communicate with a controller to automate adjustments for speed, height, and horizontal positioning, allowing for quick and precise changes using a user-friendly interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustments are used for pitch speed and height, then the machine structure remains simple and robust, but the adjustment process becomes time-consuming and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment systems with an automated control system that uses electric motors to adjust pitch parameters. The control system receives input signals and automatically actuates mechanisms to change pitch speed, height, and horizontal position, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual cranking while maintaining mechanical robustness through programmable control.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system enables the pitching machine to self-adjust its parameters automatically based on pre-programmed sequences or real-time sensor feedback. The system monitors pitch delivery and autonomously modifies speed, height, and horizontal positioning without requiring continuous manual intervention, thereby reducing adjustment time while maintaining operational simplicity.
2Ease of operation
If height adjustment requires many turns to change the angle, then the adjustment mechanism remains mechanically simple, but the adjustment process takes up to 4 minutes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual height adjustment mechanism with an electrically actuated system. Electric motors or actuators are integrated into the height adjustment mechanism, allowing the throwing arm assembly angle to be changed rapidly through electrical signals rather than manual cranking. This reduces height adjustment time from minutes to seconds while maintaining mechanical simplicity through standardized motor components.
3Ease of operation
If speed adjustment requires great force on the spring, then the adjustment mechanism remains simple, but it becomes hard to accomplish by hand when the machine is in operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual spring pre-wind adjustment mechanism with an electrically actuated system. Motors or actuators are integrated into the speed adjustment mechanism to automatically adjust the spring pre-wind based on control signals, eliminating the need for users to apply great manual force. This allows speed adjustment to occur even when the machine is in operation, as the electrical system can overcome the spring force without requiring manual strength.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the machine lacks horizontal adjustment capability, then the mechanism remains simple and robust, but the pitch cannot shift side-to-side to simulate real world pitches
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the pitch control system into separate independent modules: one for pitch speed, one for pitch height, and one for horizontal position. Each module can be adjusted independently through the control system, allowing the machine to deliver pitches with varied speed, height, and horizontal positioning. This modular approach maintains mechanical simplicity by using standardized components while significantly increasing adaptability to simulate real-world pitch variations.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for controlling a pitch parameter includes a controller, at least one pitch parameter adjustment actuator configured to mount to a pitching machine and cooperate with a component of or operatively connected to an arm assembly to adjust at least one pitch parameter, and at least one position tracking linear scale configured to mount the pitching machine. The at least one pitch parameter adjustment actuator is electrically operated and actuated by the controller. The at least one position tracking linear scale is electrically operated and communicates location data associated with movement of the component to the controller.