Reference Ball Cover for Accurate Distance Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measurement systems for ball games, such as bocce and lawn bowling, face challenges in accurately determining the distance of competition balls from a reference ball without moving the reference ball, due to issues with parallax errors and inaccuracy caused by the need to physically reposition measuring devices, which can lead to invalid measurements and increased time consumption.
Innovation Solution
A reference ball cover with visible centering references, including a cylindrical base and hemispherical cap or tripod legs, allows for precise alignment of a measurement support over the reference ball, eliminating parallax errors and enabling accurate, non-contact distance measurements using various measurement devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a measuring device is placed extremely close to the reference ball for accurate measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but the risk of accidentally moving the reference ball increases
Solution Approach 1:
A cylindrical positioning device with a reference circle acts as an intermediary between the measuring device and the reference ball. The reference circle is visually aligned with the reference ball's circumference, allowing the measuring device to be positioned accurately without direct contact with the ball. This mediator enables precise measurement while maintaining reference ball stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the measuring device is physically repositioned to measure different competition balls, then versatility is improved, but the risk of contacting the reference ball and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cylindrical positioning device with reference circle serves as a fixed intermediary that remains in place while the measuring device rotates around it. This allows multiple measurements of different competition balls without repositioning the reference point, saving time and reducing contact risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring device is designed to rotate around the fixed cylindrical positioning device, allowing dynamic measurement of multiple competition balls from different positions without moving the reference point. This rotational capability provides versatility while maintaining stability.
3Reliability
If existing cylinder or cup positioning devices are used to avoid contact, then reference ball stability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to parallax errors and poor visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The reference circle is designed with high visual contrast against the reference ball, making it easily visible and distinguishable. This enhanced visibility allows for precise visual alignment of the measuring device with the reference ball's circumference, eliminating parallax errors and improving measurement accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A ball distance measuring system incorporates a support received over a reference ball. A reference on the support has a diameter differing from a diameter of the reference ball by a predetermined amount visually distinguishable from a circumference of the reference ball presenting an even visual separation confirming concentric coincidence when centered with respect to the reference ball.