Telescopic Ball Retrieval Device with Elastic Snapping Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ball retrieval devices fail to provide a height-adjustable, easy, and comfortable solution for gathering multiple balls while preventing them from rolling out, lacking a simple mechanism for easy discharge.
Innovation Solution
A telescopic ball retrieval device with adjustable height, featuring a telescopic tubing assembly, a retrieval mechanism with elastic snapping strips or rotating teeth, and a positioning element to prevent undesired rotation, allowing for easy ball collection and controlled discharge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a ball retrieval device is designed to house multiple balls, then the device volume increases, but the device becomes harder to maneuver and store
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two telescopic sections (inner tube and outer tube) that can separate from each other. When the balls are retrieved, the inner tube can be extracted from the outer tube, reducing the overall device volume for easy storage and transport, while still maintaining the capacity to house multiple balls when extended
Solution Approach 2:
The inner tube is nested within the outer tube in a telescopic arrangement. When not in use, the inner tube retracts into the outer tube, minimizing the device volume. When needed, the inner tube extends outward to provide sufficient volume to house multiple balls
2Adaptability or versatility
If the device height is fixed, then the manufacturing is simpler, but the device cannot adapt to different user preferences and ball quantities
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a telescopic mechanism that allows the height to be dynamically adjusted between a retracted position and an extended position. This dynamic structure enables the device to adapt to different user heights and different quantities of balls, while the mechanical telescopic design keeps the overall complexity manageable through the use of standardized connecting elements
3Ease of operation
If the device allows easy ball entry, then the retrieval is easier, but balls may accidentally discharge without user intent
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a telescopic mechanism that requires a deliberate two-stage action for ball discharge: first retracting the inner tube and then activating the release mechanism. This preliminary action sequence ensures that balls cannot accidentally discharge, as both conditions must be met simultaneously, while still allowing easy retrieval when the user intentionally performs the sequence
4Reliability
If the device prevents ball discharge, then ball retention is improved, but the user cannot easily access the retrieved balls
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses a dynamic telescopic mechanism where the inner tube can be retracted relative to the outer tube. When the inner tube is fully retracted and the release mechanism is activated, the balls are discharged. This dynamic design provides reliable retention during normal operation while enabling easy access when needed through the intentional telescopic action
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
Enables easy and comfortable ball collection without physical strain, accommodating various ball quantities and user preferences, while ensuring balls remain inside until desired discharge.
Implementation Method 1
The strips can bent and move from an open position to a closed position
Implementation Method 2
the teeth press the spring and fold toward it
Data Source
AI summary
A ball retrieval device; comprises: a) a telescopic tubing assembly suitable to house a plurality of balls; b) a retrieval mechanism suitable to allow the passage of a ball into said tubing assembly and to prevent its discharge therefrom; c) a positioning element suitable to cooperate with slotted connecting elements and to prevent the undesired rotation of parts of said telescopic tubing assembly relatively to one another; and d) capping element provided with stopping elements, suitable to release balls from the device when said stopping elements are in an open position.