Interchangeable Intelligent Front Support for Swimming Starting Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional swimming starting blocks require the entire platform to be replaced when the frontal support part wears out, leading to significant costs and complex installation processes.
Innovation Solution
An intelligent, interchangeable front support part with integrated electronics, including force sensors and a light source, that can be easily detached and replaced when worn, featuring ergonomic design and various fixing mechanisms for quick installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the entire platform is replaced when the front part wears out, then the grip quality is maintained, but the cost and installation complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The starting block platform is divided into two independent parts: a reusable base platform and a replaceable front support part. The front support part can be detached and replaced independently when worn, while the base platform remains in place. This segmentation allows maintenance of grip quality without requiring complete platform replacement, thereby reducing installation complexity and cost.
2Productivity
If the front support part is made detachable and replaceable, then the cost and installation time are reduced, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The front support part is extracted as a separate, removable component from the base platform. It includes its own fixing mechanism with fixing elements that engage with the base platform. This extraction allows the front support part to be quickly removed and replaced without affecting the base platform, improving replacement efficiency while keeping the structural complexity manageable through standardized fixing mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If force sensors and light sources are integrated into the front support part, then race management functionality is enhanced, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The front support part is designed as a multi-functional component that serves both mechanical support functions and electronic race management functions. Force sensors are integrated to detect swimmer position and reaction time, while light sources provide visual signaling. This multi-functionality consolidates multiple systems into a single replaceable unit, enhancing race management capabilities while controlling manufacturing cost through integration rather than separate installations.
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 solution allows for cost-effective and efficient replacement of worn-out frontal parts, enhancing athlete grip and confidence, while also providing accurate reaction time detection and customizable lighting for race signaling.
Implementation Method 1
it comprises a light source for illuminating through a slot (17) arranged horizontally on the front of the front part (18), at least the running lane in front of the starting block (1)
Implementation Method 2
The front support piece (18) comprises at least one force or movement sensor
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The front support piece (18) is intended for a starting block (1) for a swimming race, which includes at least one base (9) to be fixed around a swimming pool, and a platform (5) mounted or fixed to the base (9). A swimmer's foot and hands rest on the front support piece before the start of a race. This front support piece (18) is arranged to be mounted interchangeably on a front portion of the platform (5) of the starting block (1) and can be an intelligent front support piece with motion sensors, a light source, and race management electronics.