Project Name: Automated-Height Changing Pitching Mount
Team Members: Andy Ruan, Kwan To Kwok, and Joe Yun
Program: AutoCAD
Year: Fall 2018
My specific task was to design the cam mechanism and create the demonstration videos. This included the research and mathematics behind the cam and cam follower mechanism.
The product is a universal stand for ball launching machines, or more specifically a Jugs machines. Jugs is a company that specializes in different types of ball launchers. In addition to the mechanism they have produced, the stand is attachable from the bottom. Using a cam, the stand will move the Jugs machine and manipulate the location of where a ball lands when launched. One specific scenario in which this device can be utilized is simulating the different locations at which a fast ball can be delivered. One common problem many players struggle with is the varying locations of which a pitch can be delivered to. While most of them have no problem making contact with the ball, most of the time batters spend enormous amounts of energy just to barely hit the ball, because they are unable to find the optimal position to hit it. This type of hitting results in energy being wasted and players will quickly find themselves fatigued, which can potentially lead to long term injury. The addition of the stand will train athletes and allow them to experience the many variations of pitching style, which will hopefully translate to a better batting percentage if the device is proven effective. The stand also includes a fold-able base with wheels for easy transportation.
Video Demonstrations