Rotatable Baseball Target Receptacle with Gravity Return Conduit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing training devices for baseball and softball players are either too complex, require a power source, are impractical for solo practice, or are not suitable for high-powered pitches, making it difficult for players to develop accurate throwing skills without a dedicated catcher.
Innovation Solution
A target receptacle with a staked-down base plate, rotatably mounted main part, and a fully enclosed conduit system that catches and returns balls through an intake and exit port, designed to be durable, inexpensive, and usable by players alone, with features like a flared exit port to simulate fielding and a membrane to guide accurate throws within the strike zone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing training devices are used, then ball catching and returning function is provided, but device complexity increases with many moving parts and mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates complex moving parts, motors, and mechanical mechanisms from ball return devices. The solution uses a simple funnel-shaped receptacle with a ball return opening that allows balls to be caught and returned through a minimal mechanical structure, removing unnecessary complexity while maintaining the core function.
Solution Approach 2:
The funnel-shaped receptacle is designed to automatically guide and return balls through its geometric structure without requiring external power sources or complex mechanisms. The ball return opening and funnel geometry work together to self-service the ball return function through gravity and natural ball movement.
2Extent of automation
If motorized mechanisms are used for ball return, then automated ball returning is achieved, but power source connection is required
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs automated ball returning without external power sources by utilizing the funnel-shaped geometry and gravity. Balls are automatically guided down the funnel and returned through the ball return opening, eliminating the need for motors, batteries, or power connections while maintaining automated function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes all motorized components and power source requirements from the ball return system. The automation function is achieved purely through the geometric design of the funnel and ball return opening, extracting unnecessary energy-consuming elements.
3Quantity of substance
If large-scale devices with nets and chutes are used, then ball collection capability is improved, but device size becomes extremely large and impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a compact funnel-shaped receptacle that efficiently collects and directs balls through its geometric design. This streamlined structure replaces large nets and extensive chute systems with a space-efficient funnel geometry that maintains ball collection capability while minimizing device footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The device segments the ball collection and return function into distinct zones within the funnel structure: an intake opening for ball entry, internal funnel surfaces for ball guidance, and a ball return opening for ball exit. This segmentation achieves effective ball collection in a compact configuration.
4Device complexity
If simple receptacles are used, then device complexity is reduced, but durability for high-powered pitches is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The funnel-shaped receptacle is constructed from durable materials capable of withstanding high-powered pitches. The structure combines material strength with the simple geometric design, ensuring durability against forceful ball impacts while maintaining minimal component complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The funnel-shaped receptacle uses curved surfaces to distribute and deflect ball impacts, reducing stress concentration points. The geometric curvature of the funnel helps redirect high-powered pitches smoothly, enhancing durability while maintaining structural simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A target receptacle, for use in practicing baseball, softball, and the like, having a main part and a base plate. The base plate is secured to a ground surface. The main part is rotatably mounted to the base, has an intake opening, and exit port, and a fully enclosed conduit connecting the intake opening and exit port. When a ball is thrown into the intake opening, it travels through the conduit and exits through the exit port.