Sports Ball Throwing Machine Lift Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sports ball throwing machines lack the capability to simulate real-life game scenarios effectively due to limited height and angle options, restricting athlete training.
Innovation Solution
A sports ball throwing machine lift (SBTML) that elevates the throwing machine up to 9 feet using a mechanical or electric actuator-driven lifting mechanism, allowing adjustable angles and secure positioning with locking caster wheels and inner guide posts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the sports ball throwing machine is elevated to higher heights, then the training realism and versatility are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a base unit with caster wheels for mobility, a lifting mechanism with guide posts for vertical movement, and a mounting structure for the throwing machine. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, achieving elevation and angle adjustment without excessive overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates dynamic elements including locking caster wheels that can be locked or unlocked based on operational needs, and a lifting mechanism that can adjust the height and angle of the throwing machine. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different training scenarios while maintaining structural integrity through controlled movement and positioning.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the lifting mechanism is made more complex to achieve higher angles, then the training versatility is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking caster wheels provide self-service functionality by automatically locking when the lifting mechanism is in use, eliminating the need for separate locking operations. The guide posts and lifting mechanism work together to automatically position the throwing machine at the desired angle and height, reducing the operational steps required while maintaining versatility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the throwing machine is positioned at higher elevations, then the simulation of real-life game situations is improved, but the stability of positioning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking caster wheels are designed to lock automatically when the lifting mechanism reaches the desired position, providing preliminary stabilization before the throwing machine is fully positioned. This preliminary locking action ensures that the machine remains stable at elevated positions during operation, maintaining positioning stability while enabling high-elevation simulation.
Data Source
AI summary
A sports ball throwing machine lift (SBTML) includes a first machine upright post and a second machine upright post that are configured to attach to a sports ball throwing machine. The SBTML further comprises a rod connected vertically between the first machine upright post and the second machine upright post. The SBTML further comprises a base, a plurality of wheels attached to a lower surface of the base, and an upright post that extends up from the base. The SBTML further comprises a lifting bar that is pivotably connected to an upper portion of the upright post. The SBTML further comprises a lifting device configured to cause the lifting bar to lift the rod. The lifting device includes a mechanical jack or an electric actuator.