Portable Pitching Mound Gravity-Assisted Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable pitching mounds are complex and expensive to manufacture, and difficult to assemble due to their size and weight, requiring multiple connections that complicate the assembly process.
Innovation Solution
A portable pitching mound composed of multiple mound sections that are assembled by inserting a lower edge of one section into a receiving slot of another, utilizing a design where the receiving slot is larger than the lower edge, allowing for gravity-assisted connection without the need for tools or connection members like screws or adhesives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple connection members (screws, bolts, clamps, adhesives) are used to connect mound sections, then the connection strength and stability are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes all connection members (screws, bolts, clamps, adhesives) from the system entirely. Instead of using multiple separate components to join mound sections, the design integrates the connection function directly into the mound section structure itself through receiving slots and interlocking edges, eliminating the need for external fasteners and significantly simplifying the assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of connection strength and structural integrity into a single integrated design. The receiving slot and lower edge configuration merges the joining mechanism with the mound section structure itself, so that the act of inserting one section into another simultaneously creates both the structural connection and the stability required, without requiring separate connection members.
2Reliability
If multiple connection members are used to assemble mound sections, then the stability of the assembled structure is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By removing all connection members from the system, the patent eliminates the need to manufacture, inventory, and assemble multiple separate components. The mound sections are manufactured as single integrated pieces with built-in receiving slots and interlocking edges, significantly reducing manufacturing steps, tooling requirements, and production complexity while maintaining structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mound sections are designed to be self-assembling through their geometric configuration. The receiving slot and lower edge design allow sections to connect to each other through simple insertion and gravity-assisted alignment, eliminating the need for external fasteners, adhesives, or complex assembly tools, thereby greatly simplifying the manufacturing and assembly process.
3Ease of operation
If the receiving slot opening is made larger than the lower edge, then the ease of assembly is improved, but the precision of connection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-aligning geometry where the lower edge of one mound section is designed to fit into the receiving slot of another section. The slightly larger opening accommodates minor positioning variations during assembly, while the tapered or shaped lower edge automatically guides itself into the correct position as it is inserted, ensuring precise connection without requiring high-precision manufacturing tolerances on the opening itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The design creates a gravity-assisted assembly system where the mound sections are oriented and inserted in a way that allows gravity to assist in the alignment and seating process. The receiving slot opening is positioned and sized to allow the lower edge to be inserted easily, and as the section is lowered into place, gravity ensures proper alignment and secure connection, compensating for the larger opening size.
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
The solution simplifies the assembly process, reduces manufacturing complexity and costs, and enhances the durability of the mound sections by providing a secure and easy-to-assemble structure that is also easier to transport and maintain.
Implementation Method 1
the weight of the mound section and gravity causes the lower edge to slide downwards and towards the adjoining mound section
Data Source
AI summary
A portable pitching mound with a plurality of mound sections. The plurality of mound sections are assembled by inserting a lower edge of one mound section into a receiving slot of another mound section. The configuration of the receiving slot forms an opening larger than the lower edge of the mound section to be received therein. The larger size of the opening allows the lower edge to be positioned anywhere above the opening of the receiving slot and upon lowering the weight of the mound section and gravity causes the lower edge to slide downwards and towards the adjoining mound section. Assembly does not require any tools or connection members such as screws, bolts, clamps, clasps, pins, adherent or adhesive surfaces, or the like.