Movable Slat Down Marker with Protective Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current down markers in football, such as flip card devices, pose safety hazards due to sharp edges and are prone to damage, while electronic devices are costly and impractical for many applications, especially in high school and junior football leagues.
Innovation Solution
A system of movable slats with a housing and pivot pin mechanism allows for the sequential display of numbers associated with downs, featuring a non-movable support and movable slats that can be selectively displayed through transparent windows, providing a safer and more durable solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a flip card device is used to display down numbers, then the numbers can be displayed on the field sidelines, but the sharp edges of the cards pose safety hazards to players
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by covering the sharp edges of the flip cards with a protective layer or sheath. This flexible covering protects players from injuries caused by sharp edges while still allowing the numbers to be visible through the thin film material.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by adding protective padding or cushioning material around the flip cards and down marker components. This cushioning is applied in advance to prevent injuries before players can be harmed by sharp edges or hard surfaces.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional flip card devices are used, then the structure is simple and cost-effective, but the rings are easily broken and numbers become crooked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible protective sheaths or films that enclose the number cards and rings. This flexible covering protects the fragile rings from breaking and prevents numbers from becoming crooked, while maintaining the simple and cost-effective nature of the traditional flip card design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies composite materials by combining traditional flip card components with protective materials such as padded coverings, reinforced rings, or laminated number displays. This composite approach strengthens the vulnerable parts (rings and numbers) while keeping the overall device simple and affordable.
3Reliability
If an electronic number indicator is used to display downs, then the numbers are easily visible and durable, but the cost is prohibitively expensive for many applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses visual copying or replication of number displays through reflective surfaces, transparent windows, or duplicate number sets that can be viewed from multiple angles. This allows the down numbers to be clearly visible and durable without requiring expensive electronic display technology, maintaining cost-effectiveness while achieving reliable number display.
Data Source
AI summary
A device having movable slats for visual display of a plurality of indicia, such as numbers, letters and/or symbols. The internal slat supporting structure is secured to prevent movement of portions thereof when struck or jostled. In some embodiments, the indicia are associated with the downs in a football game.