Segmented Bat Collar with Rotational Release Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional bat weights can damage bats when removed, and they lack adjustability for different user weights or training regimes.

Innovation Solution

A quick-release weighted bat sleeve system featuring an annular collar with protrusions and removable panels that secure a weighted insert via friction, allowing for easy weight adjustment and removal without impact force.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional bat weight is removed by striking the handle on the ground, then the bat weight can be separated from the barrel, but the bat may suffer cosmetic or structural damage and the connection mechanism between barrel and handle may be broken or weakened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of weight removalVSAvoidbat damage

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The bat collar is divided into multiple segments (first collar portion and second collar portion) that can rotate relative to each other. This segmentation allows the collar to be released through rotational movement rather than requiring impact forces, thereby avoiding damage to the bat while still enabling easy removal of the weight.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using axial impact force to remove the collar (conventional method), the invention uses orthogonal rotational movement to achieve collar release. This inversion of the removal mechanism eliminates the harmful impact forces that damage the bat while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional single-weight bat collars are used, then the structure is simple, but users cannot adjust weights for different statures, ages, or training regimes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveweight adjustabilityVSAvoidcollar structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The collar is segmented into multiple portions that can rotate relative to each other, creating a modular structure. This segmentation enables the incorporation of multiple weight options while maintaining a relatively simple overall design, as the same collar structure can accommodate different weight configurations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The collar incorporates rotational movement capability, making it a dynamic structure rather than a fixed one. This dynamic feature allows the collar to adapt to different weight configurations and user needs, enhancing versatility without significantly increasing structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If conventional bat weight uses large contact surface between barrel and weight, then the weight can be securely retained during swinging, but cosmetic or minor structural damage can occur to the bat

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveweight retentionVSAvoidcosmetic damage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The invention inverts the removal mechanism from axial impact to orthogonal rotation. This allows the collar to maintain secure retention during swinging (axial forces) while enabling damage-free removal through rotational movement, thus preserving the bat's cosmetic integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The collar portions are designed with homogeneous material properties and smooth surfaces that distribute contact forces evenly during both retention and removal operations. This homogeneity prevents stress concentration that could lead to cosmetic damage while maintaining reliable weight retention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #33Homogeneity

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 system prevents bat damage during weight removal and allows for customizable weight settings, enhancing user flexibility and training effectiveness.

Implementation Method 1

The interior surfaces of the plurality of panels are configured to contact and retain the object by a friction fit

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

the protrusion is configured to separate the panel from the object in response to an orthogonal rotation of the collar relative to the axis of the center opening

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS12330033B2Baseball bat collar

Publication Date: 2025.06.17 SHOT COLLAR LLC

AI summary

The present application relates to a weighted bat sleeve system that can be easily detached from the barrel of a bat used for sports such as baseball and softball. The system comprises a plurality of panels and a collar to secure the system to the barrel of a baseball bat. In some embodiments, the system may be configured to allow the weight of the system to be adjusted or for sensors to be incorporated into the system to capture and collect data relating to the system.