Softball Pitching Machine with Curved Throwing Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pitching machines are not adapted for slow pitch softball practice, making it difficult for players to find suitable equipment to mimic the slow, arcing path of a slow pitch softball pitch.
Innovation Solution
A softball pitching machine configured to lob softballs along an arcing path with forward spin, featuring a base, ball ramp assembly, and ball launcher, which can be easily transported and stored, and allows for user input control of pitch discharge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a pitching machine is designed for fast pitch hitting, then it can deliver high-speed pitches, but it cannot mimic the slow, arcing path of slow pitch softball
Solution Approach 1:
The pitching machine is divided into separate functional modules: a ball supply system, a launching mechanism with adjustable trajectory, and a control system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for slow pitch softball, particularly the launching mechanism that can be configured to produce the required arcing path and spin characteristics without modifying the entire machine structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine incorporates adjustable parameters including launch angle, ball speed, and spin rate that can be dynamically modified to simulate slow pitch softball characteristics. The launching mechanism includes adjustable components that allow real-time changes in the ball's trajectory and rotation, enabling the machine to adapt to different pitching scenarios and mimic human pitcher variations.
2Reliability
If a pitching machine is designed with fixed structure for stability during use, then it provides consistent performance, but it becomes difficult to transport and store
Solution Approach 1:
The machine is constructed with modular components that can be easily assembled and disassembled. The base structure includes detachable legs and sections that can be quickly configured for stable operation during use and then collapsed for compact storage and transport. This modular design maintains structural integrity during operation while enabling easy relocation.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine features a transformable structural configuration that can switch between a stable expanded state during operation and a compact collapsed state for transport. The base and supporting structures include movable components that automatically stabilize during use and then can be quickly reconfigured for compact storage, providing both reliability and portability.
3Productivity
If a pitching machine uses automated ball discharge, then it improves productivity, but it reduces the ability for user control over pitch discharge timing
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed to support multiple operational modes: automated continuous discharge for high-volume practice, manual trigger-activated discharge for precise timing control, and timer-based discharge for structured practice sessions. This multi-functionality allows the same machine to serve different training needs, providing both high productivity in automated mode and precise user control in manual mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The ball discharge system incorporates dynamic control capabilities that allow real-time adjustment of discharge timing and rate. Users can switch between automated and manual control modes, and the system can be programmed with various timing patterns and intervals. This dynamic control system maintains high productivity through automated operation while providing precise user control when needed for specific training scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
A softball pitching machine in accordance with the present disclosure is configured to lob a softball along an arcuate path with forward spin to mimic the motion of an underhand, slow pitched softball from a human pitcher. The softball pitching machine includes a throwing arm having a curved hand configured to move along a predetermined arcuate path to a preset stopping point that imparts the arcing path and the forward spin on the softball.