Swing Mass Scale Apparatus for Sports Implements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tennis players face challenges in accurately measuring the swing mass and center of mass of their rackets due to costly computer-based equipment and complex pendulum resonance tests, which are difficult to set up and yield unreliable results.
Innovation Solution
A swing mass scale apparatus that uses a static mode to measure the dynamic swinging mass by translating the stationary angle of a pivotal arm into equivalent dynamic test criteria, featuring a calibrated counter force element to oppose rotation and achieve torque equality, allowing for accurate measurement without expensive equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If computer-based equipment is used to measure swing mass, then measurement precision is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex computer-based measurement systems with a simple mechanical balance scale system. The swing mass measurement is achieved through mechanical balance principles rather than electronic computation, eliminating the need for expensive computer equipment while maintaining measurement accuracy through pure mechanical means.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified copy of the measurement function using a mechanical balance scale that replicates the essential measurement capability of expensive computer-based systems. The balance scale provides a portable, affordable copy of the swing mass measurement function that amateur players can own and use.
2Measurement precision
If pendulum resonance tests are used to measure swing mass, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential measurement function from the complex pendulum resonance test procedure. By removing the complicated resonance testing requirements and focusing only on the core balance measurement capability, the system becomes easy to operate while maintaining measurement precision through simplified mechanical balance principles.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring the player to perform complex pendulum resonance tests and mathematical calculations, the patent inverts the approach by providing a passive balance scale that automatically indicates the swing mass through mechanical balance. The player simply places the racket on the scale, and the measurement is read directly without active testing or computation.
3Ease of operation
If conventional balance boards are used to measure center mass, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the visual estimation method used in conventional balance boards with a mechanical reading system. The balance scale uses a mechanical pointer and scale mechanism to indicate the center of mass position, replacing the player's visual estimation with an objective mechanical measurement system that provides precise, readable results.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanical reading system between the balance scale and the player. The mechanical pointer and scale act as intermediaries that translate the physical balance position into a precise, easily readable measurement, eliminating the need for visual estimation while maintaining ease of operation.
4Ease of operation
If visual estimation is used to determine racket balance position, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual estimation with a mechanical indication system. The balance scale uses a mechanical pointer that objectively indicates the balance position on a calibrated scale, eliminating the subjectivity and variability of visual estimation while maintaining ease of operation through automatic mechanical reading.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mechanical feedback system where the balance scale automatically provides a readable indication of the racket's balance position. The mechanical pointer responds to the balance condition and provides immediate, objective feedback that is consistent and repeatable, eliminating the unreliability of visual estimation.
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 simplified, accurate, and reproducible measurements of swing mass and center of mass for sports implements, enabling amateur players to easily verify their equipment characteristics without the need for complex setups or costly technology.
Implementation Method 1
a calibrated counter force element that will oppose any angular movement of pivotal arm, to the extent it is calibrated to do so, wherein being opposed by an implements overpowering countering mass force (toward gravity)
Implementation Method 2
the two countering forces (calibrated counter force element) and (implements mass/gravity load force) counter bear against the pivotal arm, this will cause instant rotation of pivotal arms angular position away from initial datum/detente stop, until these opposed forces become equalized
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus to measure swing mass moments of sports' implements includes an apparatus that receive a handle of a sports' implement and measures rotational angularity thereof using a calibrated counter force element and using a static mode of measurement in association with a scale having a plurality of readings.