Segmented Baseball Target Screen with Elastic Strike Zone

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional pitching targets are susceptible to damage from repeated ball impacts, lack clear indication of the strike zone, and often require a dedicated structure, making them impractical for use in modest-sized yards where both a swing set and pitching aid cannot be accommodated.

Innovation Solution

A durable target screen with a rigid frame and elastic members that subdivides the strike zone into sections, easily attachable to a swing set, providing clear visual feedback on strike location and withstanding repeated impacts, while being adaptable for use in common areas.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional pitching targets are used, then the target can indicate strike zone location, but the target is susceptible to damage from repeated ball impacts

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedurability against ball impactsVSAvoidstructural integrity of target screen

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The target screen is divided into multiple panels that can independently flex and return to position, with the frame providing structural support at key locations. This segmentation allows the screen to absorb impact energy without compromising overall structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The flexible screen material acts as a cushioning element that absorbs impact energy before it reaches the frame and supporting structure. The material is designed to deform under impact and then return to its original position, protecting the rigid components from damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

2Loss of information

If conventional pitching targets are used, then the target can be set up for practice, but the target lacks clear indication of which part of the strike zone the ball was thrown through

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveclarity of strike location indicationVSAvoidcomplexity of target structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Different sections of the target screen are assigned different visual characteristics (colors, patterns, or numbering) to indicate specific regions of the strike zone. This allows the pitcher to immediately identify where the ball passed through without adding complex electronic or mechanical components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Adaptability or versatility

If conventional pitching targets requiring dedicated structure are used, then the target can provide stable pitching practice, but the target cannot be accommodated in modest-sized yards where swing sets are already present

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with existing backyard structuresVSAvoidspace required for target setup

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The target system is designed to attach to various existing backyard structures such as swing sets, fences, or garage doors. The universal attachment mechanism allows the same target to be deployed in different locations and configurations, maximizing space utilization in modest-sized yards.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Productivity

If conventional pitching targets are used, then the target can be set up for practice, but the target requires significant yard space that conflicts with swing set placement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveefficiency of yard space utilizationVSAvoidyard space occupied

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The pitching target functionality is merged with existing backyard structures like swing sets, allowing both swinging and pitching activities to share the same space. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated areas for each activity, optimizing yard space utilization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 enhances the durability and visibility of the strike zone, allowing for interchangeable use of spaces for both swinging and pitching, ensuring accurate practice without structural damage and accommodating diverse yard sizes.

Implementation Method 1

The elastic member is characterized by being able to stretch when struck by the baseball and resiliently return to its original shape after removal of force from the baseball.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8678957B1Sports training apparatus and methods of use thereof

Publication Date: 2014.03.25 PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT LLC

AI summary

An apparatus for use in practicing pitching and aiming a baseball which includes a target screen having a first attachment apparatus for attaching the target screen to a structure, a first aperture, and a frame attached to the target screen and being positioned at a perimeter of the first aperture thereby reinforcing the target screen around the perimeter of the first aperture against impacts from thrown baseballs. The frame has a rigid construction and defines an opening generally having the shape and size of a baseball strike zone. A plurality of elastic members subdivide the opening, and thus the strike zone, into nine sections to aid a player in aiming for different locations within the strike zone. The opening and first aperture communicate such that thrown baseballs which pass through the first aperture also pass through the opening.