Underhand Pitch Training Device With Adjustable Heel Guides
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Solution Overview
Problem
Youth softball pitchers face challenges in developing proper pitching mechanics, leading to inefficiencies and potential injuries due to improper alignment and movement during underhand pitches, which are critical for effective pitching.
Innovation Solution
A portable and customizable underhanded pitch training device featuring a T-shaped platform with removable heel guides and an adjustable goal post assembly to ensure proper alignment and elevation of the drive and stride feet, replicating the pitching mound for optimal pitching motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed pitching mound is used for training, then proper pitching mechanics can be developed, but the device lacks portability and adaptability to different users
Solution Approach 1:
The training device is divided into modular components including a base platform, adjustable heel guides, and a movable goal post assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted or removed to accommodate different user sizes and pitching styles without requiring complete redesign of the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The heel guides and goal post assembly are designed to be adjustable rather than fixed. The heel guides can be repositioned along the platform to accommodate different stride lengths, and the goal post height can be modified to match different pitcher abilities, making the device dynamically adaptable to various users.
2Ease of operation
If heel guides are made permanent to prevent drive foot rotation, then proper alignment is maintained, but the device loses ease of assembly and adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The heel guides are pre-configured with alignment markings and positioning features that guide proper placement during assembly. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the removable heel guides are installed, they automatically provide consistent alignment without requiring complex adjustment procedures during setup.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the goal post assembly is made adjustable for different stride lengths, then versatility is improved, but the mechanical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The goal post assembly is segmented into adjustable components including a height-adjustable post and a movable horizontal bar. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of vertical and horizontal positions to accommodate different pitcher heights and stride lengths without requiring complex mechanical linkages.
Solution Approach 2:
The goal post assembly incorporates simple mechanical adjustment mechanisms such as sliding joints and locking pins that allow users to easily modify the position and height of the goal post to match different pitching mechanics and physical dimensions.
Data Source
AI summary
A pitching training device generally having a platform with a generally T-shaped end and a raised pitchers rubber configured to support the pitcher during delivery of the underhanded pitch, and a pair of removable heel guides to inhibit rotation of a drive foot of the pitcher. A stride section, removably connected to and positioned to extend longitudinally from said generally T-shaped end. A goal post assembly configured to movably position a stride bar across the stride section. The stride bar is positioned as a target for a drive foot of the pitcher to clear a predetermined height during the underhanded pitch. The device is lightweight and portable, useable indoors or on a practice field and is operable for left or right handed pitching.