Spooled Boundary Marker With Laser Measurement for Field Layouts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for marking sports boundaries are inaccurate, inconsistent, and not adaptable for various sports or group sizes, and lack tools that allow precise measurement and flexible setup.
Innovation Solution
A spooled marking apparatus with a base, tape reel, and connecting means, featuring a color-coded tape, digital display, and laser measurement system, enabling precise and adaptable boundary marking for multiple sports and group sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional methods of marking boundaries are used (visual cues, cones), then setup is simple and equipment is minimal, but measurement precision and boundary accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The marking apparatus integrates multiple functions into a single device: it combines measurement capabilities (laser distance meter, digital display), marking capabilities (retractable tape with color-coded measurements), and positioning capabilities (rotatable base, adjustable angles) into one universal tool that can mark boundaries for various sports and construction applications with precise measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement methods (physical tape measures, manual positioning) with electronic and optical systems including a laser distance meter for automatic distance measurement, a digital display for real-time measurement display, and a microprocessor-controlled retractable tape mechanism that automatically extends and retracts the marking tape
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-dimension boundary systems are used, then setup is straightforward, but adaptability to different sports and group sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The marking apparatus features dynamic and adjustable components: the base can rotate to different angles (90 degrees, 45 degrees, or any angle between 0 to 360 degrees), the tape can be extended to various lengths based on measurement requirements, and the digital display can show different measurement units and values, allowing the same device to adapt to different sports field dimensions and configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The device serves multiple functions across different applications: it can mark boundaries for various sports (soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis), perform construction layout tasks, and accommodate different group sizes by adjusting measurement dimensions, all through a single apparatus with adjustable parameters
3Manufacturing precision
If rough estimation methods are used for boundary placement, then equipment requirements are minimal, but manufacturing precision and dimension accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rough manual estimation with precision electronic measurement systems: a laser distance meter provides accurate distance measurements, a digital display shows precise dimensional values, and a microprocessor controls the retractable tape mechanism to extend to exact measured lengths, ensuring high dimensional accuracy without manual estimation errors
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sport-specific kits are purchased for different sports, then each sport gets dedicated equipment, but device complexity and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The marking apparatus is designed as a universal multi-sport device that can mark boundaries for soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and other sports using a single apparatus. The rotatable base, adjustable tape length, and digital measurement system allow one device to replace multiple sport-specific kits, eliminating the need for separate equipment for each sport
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
Provides accurate, flexible, and adaptable boundary marking for various sports and construction layouts, reducing disputes and simplifying setup processes.
Implementation Method 1
laser measurement system
Data Source
AI summary
A spooled marking apparatus for defining layouts of athletic fields, playing surfaces, home improvement projects, and the like is presented herein. The reel includes a housing within which a spool is disposed retaining an elongated marking device wound thereon. The housing includes an opening through which a free end of the elongated marking device is allowed to pass through. The free end of the elongated marking device includes a fastener, and the housing includes a lock and a roller handle.