Throwing Machine Controller Using Randomized Shot Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sports object throwing machines are either too simplistic for comprehensive training or overly complex, requiring manual adjustments or extensive user programming, and lack variability in throw distribution, which can lead to predictable training experiences.
Innovation Solution
A controller system for sports object throwing machines that allows users to select skill levels, automatically setting preprogrammed throw distribution patterns and probabilities to simulate realistic shot distributions, incorporating adjustable parameters for elevation and horizontal angle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex computerized controls with substantial user programming are provided, then the throwing machine can provide complete training experience with varied shot distributions, but the device complexity and setup time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The controller includes pre-programmed shot distribution patterns that are prepared in advance and stored in memory. These patterns represent common tennis shot distributions and are automatically selected based on user input, eliminating the need for users to program complex parameters manually while still providing comprehensive training scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows users to select from multiple pre-programmed parameter sets (shot distribution patterns) rather than requiring manual adjustment of individual parameters. This changes the control approach from continuous parameter adjustment to discrete pattern selection, simplifying the user interface while maintaining training effectiveness
2Adaptability or versatility
If oscillation functions are used to distribute shots to different locations, then the throwing machine can cover the entire court area, but the training becomes predictable and reduces effectiveness for reacting to unexpected shots
Solution Approach 1:
The controller uses random number generation to determine shot locations within predefined distribution patterns, creating unpredictable periodic variations in shot placement. This randomness within structured patterns provides both court coverage and unpredictability, preventing the mechanical oscillation predictability problem
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts shot location selection based on random probability distributions rather than following fixed mechanical oscillation paths. This dynamic random selection within pattern constraints provides variety and unpredictability while maintaining structured training scenarios
3Ease of operation
If simple randomization of shot parameters is implemented, then the control operation is simplified, but the shot distribution does not accurately represent competitive tennis where majority of shots are at deep center court
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the court are assigned different probability weights in the pre-programmed patterns. Areas where competitive tennis shots commonly occur (such as deep center court) have higher probability weights, while less common areas have lower weights. This creates locally optimized shot distributions that reflect actual tennis play patterns
Solution Approach 2:
The pre-programmed shot distribution patterns are based on empirical data from competitive tennis matches, copying real shot distributions rather than using uniform randomization. This allows the system to replicate authentic tennis scenarios while maintaining simple pattern selection operation
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for controlling a sports object throwing machine is disclosed that utilizes preprogrammed parameters of shot distribution pattern, throwing speed, feed rate, elevation, spin rate and direction to permit operation of the sports object throwing machine by simply selecting a skill level. Adjustment keys are provided to allow user customization of the operating parameters as desired. In addition, the preprogrammed parameter of shot distribution pattern includes instrumentality to reduce repetitive shots to the same location by reducing the comparative probability of subsequent shots to the same location.