U-Shape Return Net for Multi-Sports Ball Retrieval
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sports ball/disk return net systems are not portable, require excessive user effort for retrieval, and are specific to individual sports, necessitating multiple systems for different types of sports.
Innovation Solution
A multi-sports ball/disk return net system with a frame and net configuration that forms a U-shape pillow and channel, allowing for direct return of projectiles to the user, featuring interconnectable tubular elements for easy assembly and disassembly, and accommodating various sports with adjustable net patterns and weights.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rectangular frame with a flat net is used, then the system structure is simple, but the ball/disk is not returned directly to the user and requires constant user movement for retrieval
Solution Approach 1:
The net is configured into a U-shape channel with curved surfaces that guide the ball/disk along a predictable path back to the user. The curved geometry of the U-shape channel ensures that projectiles are funneled toward the discharge point at the user's location, achieving direct return without requiring user movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The net is divided into functional zones: an upper U-shape pillow for initial contact and deceleration, and a lower U-shape channel for guiding the ball back to the discharge point. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function optimally, improving ball return efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If a pocket-shaped net with chutes is used, then the ball can be collected and returned, but the system becomes difficult to transport and assemble due to extraneous structures
Solution Approach 1:
The U-shape channel serves multiple functions: it collects the ball/disk after impact, guides it along a controlled path, and discharges it directly to the user. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate chutes and complex mechanical return mechanisms, simplifying the overall structure for easier assembly and transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The collection and return functions are merged into a single U-shape channel structure. Instead of having separate collection pockets and chute mechanisms, the curved channel performs both functions continuously, reducing the number of parts and simplifying the system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If lightweight net material is used, then the net is easy to handle, but it is not appropriate for use with multiple different types of sports balls/disks
Solution Approach 1:
The net features adjustable parameters including interchangeable net panels with different hole sizes and patterns, and adjustable tensioning mechanisms. These parameter changes allow the same net structure to accommodate different ball types (golf balls, soccer balls, lacrosse balls, etc.) while maintaining appropriate interaction characteristics for each sport.
Solution Approach 2:
The net is designed with dynamic tensioning and adjustable configuration capabilities, allowing it to adapt its physical properties (tightness, hole size exposure, channel depth) based on the specific ball type being used. This dynamic adjustability enables a single net to serve multiple sports effectively.
4Reliability
If a specific sport-specific net system is used, then the net configuration is optimized for that sport, but multiple systems are required for different sports
Solution Approach 1:
The net system is designed as a universal platform that can handle multiple sports through interchangeable net panels with different specifications (hole sizes, patterns, materials). The same frame and U-shape channel structure work with various ball types, requiring only panel changes rather than complete system replacements.
Solution Approach 2:
The net is segmented into interchangeable panels that can be swapped based on the sport being played. Each panel is optimized for specific ball types, but they all fit the same frame structure, allowing users to have one system with multiple specialized components rather than multiple complete systems.
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 efficient, direct, and consistent return of sports projectiles across multiple sports with minimal user effort, facilitating practice without the need for multiple systems, and allowing for easy transportation and setup.
Implementation Method 1
A ball/disk propelled into the U-shape pillow drops down to the U-shape channel, which funnels the ball to the lowest and central point of the U-shape channel for discharge toward the user.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-sports ball/disk return net system and a method thereof that consistently returns a ball/disk hit, kick, thrown or struck into it back toward a user and that is portable and easy to assemble and disassemble. The multi-sports ball/disk return net system has a frame and a net mounted on or across the frame. The net forms an upper U-shape forward bulging pillow having a square net pattern and a lower U-shape channel or hammock with the square pattern at the opposite ends of the U-shape channel being skewed to become diamond shapes. The net is configured to cause a projectile propelled into the U-shape pillow to drop down to the U-shape channel, which funnels the ball to the lowest and central point of the U-shape channel for discharge toward the user.