Racket Sports Rebounder with Adjustable Side Shields
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing racket sports rebounders lack versatility and portability, failing to accommodate various sports like pickle ball and not providing adjustable features for ball return height and duration, and often require tools for assembly.
Innovation Solution
A portable racket sports rebounder with a metallic frame, U-shaped legs, a swivel bounce board, and adjustable bungee cord attachments that allow for customizable ball return height and duration, featuring a rebound sheet secured with bungee cords and side shields to prevent ball deviation, enabling easy assembly and disassembly without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional rebounder design is used, then the structure is simple, but it lacks versatility to accommodate various racket sports like pickle ball
Solution Approach 1:
The rebounder is designed with adjustable side shields and multiple attachment points that allow it to accommodate different racket sports including tennis, pickle ball, and padel. The side shields can be positioned at different heights and angles to suit different sport requirements, making a single device versatile for multiple sports without requiring separate equipment for each sport.
Solution Approach 2:
The rebounder structure is divided into modular components including adjustable side shields, removable net, and segmented frame sections. This segmentation allows the device to be configured for different sports and easily transported, achieving versatility without proportionally increasing overall complexity.
2Ease of operation
If a fixed rebounder structure is used, then the assembly is simple, but it requires tools for assembly and disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The rebounder employs self-locking connection mechanisms that allow users to assemble and disassemble the structure without external tools. The quick-connect joints and snap-fit components enable tool-free assembly, making the device accessible to average users while maintaining structural integrity during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanisms incorporate movable and adjustable elements that allow the structure to be easily configured and reconfigured. The dynamic assembly system enables users to adapt the rebounder to different sports configurations without requiring complex tool-based assembly procedures.
3Reliability
If a rebounder without side shields is used, then the structure is simpler, but the ball can stray off the side and not return to the player
Solution Approach 1:
Side shields are added only in the specific locations where ball containment is needed, rather than enclosing the entire structure. The shields are positioned at optimal heights and angles to prevent ball straying while maintaining an open, accessible structure. This localized addition improves ball return reliability without requiring a complete structural redesign.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a non-adjustable rebounder is used, then the structure is simpler, but it cannot adjust ball return height and duration for different sports
Solution Approach 1:
The rebounder incorporates adjustable side shields, removable nets, and reconfigurable frame elements that allow users to modify ball return height and duration according to different sport requirements. These dynamic adjustment capabilities enable the same basic structure to serve multiple sports functions without requiring overly complex adjustment mechanisms.
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 solo practice in multiple racket sports with adjustable ball return characteristics, improved stability, and enhanced portability, allowing for efficient and versatile training without a partner, with adjustable settings for ball return speed and height.
Implementation Method 1
a rebound sheet secured with bungee cords
Implementation Method 2
Much of the speed of the ball is dissipated and absorbed by the rebounder. The ball then rolls up and contacts a curved, return portion of the rebounder
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for racket sports practice (such as tennis, pickle ball, padel, squash, racquet ball, table tennis and the like) is disclosed. The apparatus being comprised of a tubular frame, lightweight cloth, a swivel bounce board and unique side shields that prevent balls from straying. The curved area of the rebound sheet allows users to hit balls into the apparatus and have them returned at various speeds and angles. The apparatus being of such a size that, when broken down after practice, can be easily transported by a single person. An object of the invention is to provide an affordable means for racket sports enthusiasts to practice independently.