Waist-Mounted Ball Training Tether with Traversing Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current basketball training methods require multiple individuals to practice techniques, limiting solo practice and repetition of skills, which is also applicable to other sports.
Innovation Solution
A tether and belt apparatus with a connector module and sleeve configuration that secures a ball, allowing for independent practice of passing and tossing skills by enabling the ball to be secured and manipulated around the player's waist without entanglement, using a trackball or carabiner clip mechanism for smooth movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple individuals work together to practice basketball techniques, then the techniques can be implemented as designed, but the ability to practice solo is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The training system is segmented into independent modular components: a belt worn by the user, a tether with adjustable length, a connector module with traversal capability, and a ball holder. This segmentation allows the system to function with a single user while maintaining the technical requirements of coordinated ball handling drills.
Solution Approach 2:
The tether acts as an intermediary element between the user and the ball, allowing the user to practice passing and handling techniques without needing a partner. The tether mediates the interaction by providing controlled resistance and return force, simulating the presence of another player.
2Productivity
If repetitive training techniques are practiced, then skill development is enhanced, but entanglement and tangling issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The connector module is designed to dynamically traverse along the belt in response to forces applied during ball handling drills. This dynamic adjustment prevents the tether from becoming static and tangled, allowing continuous repetitive motion without entanglement. The carabiner clip or trackball mechanism enables smooth traversal that adapts to the user's movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of tether configuration by allowing the connector module to move along the belt, effectively changing the tether's anchor point during exercise. This parameter change prevents the tether from maintaining a fixed configuration that could lead to tangling during repetitive drills.
3Ease of operation
If a tether system is used to enable solo practice, then independent training is possible, but the connector module may become entangled around the player's waist
Solution Approach 1:
The connector module's ability to traverse along the belt provides dynamic adjustment that prevents entanglement around the waist. As the user moves during drills, the connector module slides along the belt to maintain optimal positioning, preventing the tether from wrapping around the waist in a tangled configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful entanglement effect is extracted from the system by separating the connector module's positioning function from the tether's ball-holding function. The connector module is extracted as a distinct element that traverses independently, preventing the tether itself from becoming the source of waist entanglement.
Data Source
AI summary
A training apparatus for ball-playing sports comprising a tether having a first end affixed to a connector module and a second end affixed to a ball securing device. The ball securing device is configured to secure a ball therein. A belt may be configured to have the connector module engaged therewith where the belt is to be worn around a waist of a user. The connector module operable to traverse a length of the belt in response to a throwing force applied to the ball.