Vacuum Anchor for Track Starting Block Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional track and field starting blocks face issues with movement on smooth surfaces without holes for pins, requiring additional assistance or materials to prevent slipping during a sprint start.
Innovation Solution
A starting block anchor system featuring a vacuum suction device and stabilizing bracket that securely attaches to smooth surfaces, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly, and adjustable positioning to prevent slipping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pins are used in holes to anchor starting blocks, then the blocks are securely anchored, but the surface requires pre-drilled holes which are not available on multipurpose surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a vacuum suction device with a suction cup that creates a vacuum seal against smooth surfaces to anchor the starting block. The vacuum pump generates negative pressure to hold the suction cup firmly in place, providing reliable anchoring without requiring pre-drilled holes in the surface.
2Reliability
If additional materials like rugs are used to prevent slipping, then slipping is reduced, but the setup becomes more complex and requires additional materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the anchoring function and slip prevention into a single integrated system. The vacuum suction device anchors the starting block to the surface while the interlocking mechanism with the block's frame prevents slipping, eliminating the need for separate rugs or additional materials.
3Reliability
If a person stands on the blocks or assistance is required to keep blocks in place, then slipping is prevented, but the ease of operation is reduced and additional human assistance is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum suction device automatically anchors the starting block to the surface through vacuum pressure, eliminating the need for human assistance to hold the blocks in place. The system is self-sufficient and maintains stability without requiring anyone to stand on or support the blocks.
4Reliability
If the anchor system is permanently fixed, then stability is maximized, but the ease of transport and storage is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic anchoring system where the vacuum suction device can be easily attached and detached from the surface. The locking mechanism allows the starting block to be securely fixed during use but can be quickly released for transport and storage, providing both stability and mobility.
5Device complexity
If the suction device is directly attached to the starting block, then the structure is simpler, but the adaptability to different surfaces and positioning options is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the anchoring system into separate functional components: a vacuum suction device for surface attachment, a bracket mechanism for positioning, and a locking assembly for securing the starting block. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall simplicity.
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
The anchor system effectively secures starting blocks to various surfaces, preventing movement during a sprint start without the need for additional assistance or specialized surfaces, ensuring stability and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
a suction assembly hingedly and releasably attached to the bracket member, the suction member configured to releasably and securely engage the surface
Data Source
AI summary
A new and useful improvement in starting blocks and starting block anchoring devices for use at the line of start of a track either indoors or outdoors. The inventive starting block anchor is comprised of a vacuum suction device operatively and releasably attaches to an interface that also operatively and releasably attaches to a track and field starting block of various configurations.