Rotating Footplate Training Device with Adjustable Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sports such as golf and baseball require precise foot rotation during swings, but existing training methods lack effective tools to assist and teach proper foot rotation techniques, leading to suboptimal technique and performance.
Innovation Solution
A sporting device featuring a rotating foot plate supported by a central body with adjustable rotational limits, ball bearings for reduced friction, and adjustable foot extensions to mimic the stance and rotation required in these sports, helping players practice and perfect their swing motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed foot plate is used, then stability is improved, but foot rotation capability is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The foot plate is designed to transition from a fixed state to a rotatable state. The plate can rotate freely when the user applies torque during swing motion, but returns to a stable fixed position when not in use, achieving both stability and rotation capability through dynamic state change
Solution Approach 2:
The foot plate undergoes periodic rotation during the swing motion and then returns to its initial stable position. This periodic action allows the plate to provide stability during non-use periods while enabling rotation during the functional swing phase
2Ease of operation
If friction between foot plate and foot is high, then grip is improved, but rotation smoothness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the foot plate have different friction characteristics. The portion contacting the foot has high friction for secure grip, while the bearing interface has low friction for smooth rotation, achieving both gripping and rotation requirements through local quality differentiation
Solution Approach 2:
A bearing is introduced as an intermediary element between the foot plate and the rotation mechanism. The bearing reduces friction at the rotation interface while allowing the foot plate surface to maintain high friction for foot grip, thus mediating between the conflicting requirements
3Ease of operation
If rotational degree is unrestricted, then freedom of motion is improved, but control precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides tactile feedback through the bearing interface and mechanical constraints that indicate when the foot plate has rotated to the appropriate angle. This feedback mechanism allows unrestricted motion feel while maintaining precise control through user awareness of the rotation state
4Speed
If ball bearings are added to reduce friction, then rotation smoothness is improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing is extracted as a separate, modular component that can be independently installed in the foot plate assembly. This extraction allows the bearing to be added only where needed for rotation, minimizing the increase in overall device complexity while maximizing the rotation smoothness benefit
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 device enhances foot rotation technique by reducing friction and allowing controlled practice of the swing motion, improving hip rotation and overall swing performance for golfers and baseball players of all skill levels.
Implementation Method 1
A sporting device of the invention can comprise ball bearings which allow and facilitate rotation of said central plate relative to said central body
Data Source
AI summary
A sporting device providing a rotating footplate and optional foot extension for a user to employ to practice a swing motion using a bat or club commonly used in sports.