Synthetic Turf Base Anchoring With Removable Plugs for Multi-Use Fields

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing baseball and softball bases for synthetic turf fields lack versatility and stability, with in-ground bases being inflexible and rubber bases prone to movement, limiting their use across different playing surfaces.

Innovation Solution

A frame assembly with a removable cover plug and vertical members is used to secure bases, home plates, and pitcher's rubbers to the synthetic turf, allowing for easy installation and removal while maintaining a level playing field.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If in-ground bases with anchored sleeves are used, then stability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates because they can only be used in the location where the anchor is installed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebase stabilityVSAvoidbase location flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The base securing system is divided into separate components: a frame assembly that remains in the ground and a removable cover plug that can be taken out. This segmentation allows the frame to provide stable anchoring while the removable cover enables flexibility in base placement and field configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cover plug is designed to be removable and repositionable, transforming the static in-ground base system into a dynamic one. The cover can be removed to allow base repositioning or field reconfiguration, and reinstalled to restore the level playing field surface, providing adaptability while maintaining stability through the anchored frame.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If simple rubber bases are placed on top of synthetic turf, then adaptability is improved allowing flexibility in location, but stability deteriorates as they move out of place with slight contact

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebase location flexibilityVSAvoidbase position stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The frame assembly acts as an intermediary structure between the synthetic turf and the base. The frame is anchored to the ground providing stability, while the removable cover plug serves as an intermediary that allows the base to be positioned on the frame rather than directly on the turf, preventing base movement while maintaining location flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a frame assembly with removable cover plug is used, then adaptability is improved for multi-use surfaces, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-use field capabilityVSAvoidframe assembly structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame assembly with removable cover plug serves multiple functions: it provides stable anchoring for bases, maintains a level playing field surface when the cover is installed, and enables field reconfiguration when the cover is removed. This multi-functionality justifies the moderate structural complexity by providing both stability and adaptability for various field uses.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20250229149A1Systems and methods for securing bases, home plates, pitcher's rubbers, and double bases to synthetic turf

Publication Date: 2025.07.17 SPORTSFIELD INTELLECTUAL LLC

AI summary

An anchor includes a frame assembly and a removable cover plug. The frame assembly includes an access frame having a bottom and a wall defining an upper opening and a cavity therein, a first flexible seal extends above the upper opening of the wall, and at least one vertical member is in communication with the cavity of the access frame. The plug is operable for covering opening in the access frame. The plug includes a platform for supporting synthetic turf on the platform. When the plug is removed, at least one stanchion of a base, a home plate, a double base, or a pitcher's rubber is engageable with the vertical member.