Synthetic Turf Mapping Robot for Ball Density Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for rebalancing ball distribution on synthetic sports fields are empirical, leading to excessive ball consumption and variable densities due to the lack of information on the terrain state, as existing robots do not provide data on the ground conditions they operate on.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a mapping robot with motorized wheels, a location system, a friction element with teeth, and a control unit that collects position and power consumption data to determine ball density, which is then visualized on a connected screen, allowing for targeted ball replenishment based on geolocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If empirical methods are used to rebalance ball distribution, then the process is simple to operate, but ball consumption increases and density uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors to detect ball density at multiple positions on the synthetic turf, feeds this information back to a controller, which then automatically adjusts the ball distribution mechanism to achieve uniform density without empirical trial-and-error
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual empirical ball distribution with an automated mechanical system that uses sensors, controllers, and actuators to precisely control ball placement based on real-time density measurements
2Device complexity
If empirical methods are used to rebalance ball distribution, then the process requires minimal equipment, but density uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors to detect ball density at multiple positions on the synthetic turf, feeds this information back to a controller, which then automatically adjusts the ball distribution mechanism to achieve uniform density without empirical trial-and-error
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the synthetic turf into multiple measurement zones with sensors positioned at different locations, allowing independent detection and control of ball density in each segment to ensure overall uniformity
3Device complexity
If ball distribution is not monitored, then the system is simple, but information on terrain state is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors to detect ball density at multiple positions on the synthetic turf, feeds this information back to a controller, which then automatically adjusts the ball distribution mechanism to achieve uniform density without empirical trial-and-error
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sensors as intermediary devices that indirectly measure ball density by detecting physical properties (such as weight, position, or mechanical resistance) without directly interacting with or disturbing the ball-turf system
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
This system enables precise evaluation and replenishment of ball densities on synthetic sports fields, reducing ball consumption and ensuring consistent field conditions by identifying areas needing ball addition based on power consumption thresholds.
Implementation Method 1
a friction element that has teeth that rub the ground synthetic
Implementation Method 2
a motor that rotates said wheel
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a mapping robot (100) comprising a chassis (102), two motorized wheels (104), for each motorized wheel (104), a motor (108) which drives the wheel (104) in rotation, a localization system (112) determining the position of the robot (100) on a synthetic ground (50), a control unit (110) arranged to collect position information delivered by the localization system (112) and electrical consumption information from each motor (108), and to associate the electrical consumption information with the position information, and a friction element (114) which has teeth which rub on the synthetic ground (50).