Slidable Mass Training Device for Dynamic Inertia Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing training devices for sports and exercise, such as bats and racquets, do not effectively control the dynamic moment of inertia during a swing, limiting the precision and effectiveness of swing timing and power development.
Innovation Solution
A training device with a hollow body and a slidable mass that moves within the device, featuring a passage with varying diameters to control the rate of change in moment of inertia, allowing for customizable swing dynamics through centrifugal force and air compression mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a stationary weight is used in training devices, then the device structure is simple, but the moment of inertia cannot be controlled dynamically during swing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the stationary weight into a movable slider that can change position along the bat shaft during the swing. This allows the moment of inertia to be dynamically adjusted - the slider moves from a position closer to the handle during the backswing to a position farther from the handle during the forward swing, enabling adaptive control of rotational inertia throughout the swing cycle
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the bat structure into distinct components: the bat shaft, the slider, and the passage through which the slider moves. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component - the passage can be shaped to control slider movement characteristics while the slider itself can be adjusted to change the moment of inertia, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and dynamic control capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If a movable slider is used to control dynamic moment of inertia, then swing timing and power control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing the slider-passive system where the slider moves automatically under the influence of centrifugal force and gravity during the swing motion, without requiring external actuators, motors, or complex control mechanisms. The passage geometry itself guides the slider movement, allowing the device to self-regulate its moment of inertia based on swing dynamics
Solution Approach 2:
The passage acts as an intermediary element between the slider and the bat shaft, mediating the slider's movement through its specific geometric shape. The passage constrains and guides the slider along a predetermined path, translating the complex interaction of forces during swinging into controlled positional changes that optimize swing timing and power without requiring direct mechanical intervention
3Ease of manufacture
If the passage diameter is uniform, then manufacturing is easier, but the rate of change of moment of inertia cannot be controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the passage diameter at different locations along its length. Specifically, the passage has a larger diameter at one end and a smaller diameter at the other end, creating different resistance to slider movement in different regions. This non-uniform geometry allows precise control over the rate at which the slider moves and thus the rate of change of moment of inertia, while still being manufacturable using standard machining techniques
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
Enhances swing speed and control by reducing initial moment of inertia for faster acceleration and increasing it for follow-through, optimizing the sweet spot and training effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
During the swinging of the bat, the centrifugal force drives the weight outwardly toward the striking end of the bat
Implementation Method 2
allowing for customizable swing dynamics through centrifugal force and air compression mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
A hand-held sports or exercise training device configured to improve the swing of a user that includes a hollow body defining a interior volume extending within the device and a slidable mass having an passage that extends through the mass in the direction of movement, or, alternative, one or more passages that allow air flow are contained in a sleeve housing the slidable mass and/or in the bat end. The slidable mass is contained within the interior volume or an added sleeve and is in contact with an interior circumference of the hollow body or sleeve. As a user swings the device, the moment of inertia for the device changes such that swing mechanics and/or timing can be improved.