Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a dropped ball retrieval assistive device that is accessed by a user for retrieving a dropped ball from a ditch in a convenient manner by minimizing manual effort and ensuring accurate positioning of the system for efficient retrieval of the ball.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] When a ball is accidentally dropped, retrieving it manually can be challenging, especially in areas with uneven terrain, water, or debris. In such cases, users often struggle to locate and retrieve the ball, leading to inconvenience and inefficiency. Additionally, manual retrieval may result in damage to the ball or excessive effort from the user, making the process cumbersome and time-consuming.

[0003] Sometimes, depending on the depth and environmental conditions of the location where the ball has dropped, there are chances of inaccurate positioning of retrieval tools, making the process ineffective. A user may attempt various methods to retrieve the ball, but factors like poor visibility, unstable ground, or the presence of sludge can hinder successful retrieval. Additionally, improper handling of the ball during retrieval may result in contamination, affecting its usability.

[0004] However, retrieving a ball from difficult terrains remains a major challenge, causing users to spend excessive time and effort. In some cases, users may abandon the ball entirely due to the difficulty of retrieval. Moreover, without proper guidance, users may misalign their retrieval tools, further complicating the process.

[0005] US6079930A discloses a generally upwardly standing wheeled cart having a ground level scoop on its front end wherein tennis balls can be scooped up and routed upwardly through a hopper into a ball basket when the cart is moved in the forward direction. The front wheels of the cart have axles which serve to drive a belt having flexible projecting edges which belt is located on the inside of the cart which belt turns in a counter clockwise direction and forces the tennis balls upwardly through the enclosure of the cart by trapping the balls between the belt which is the width of the cart and the rear wall of the cart wherewith the balls are forced upwardly and out of the top of the cart into a rear hanging basket. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention a canvas belt is driven by a motor with the belt having hook and loop material attached to it which serves as the surface upon which the tennis balls are contacted and forced upwardly.

[0006] US20120093621A1 discloses a ball retrieval device that picks up tennis balls from the ground and vertically elevates them into a cart. The ball retrieval device includes an L-shaped frame including a first section and a second section. A feeder system is located on the horizontal section of the L-shaped frame and a paddle wheel system is connected to the feeder system. A lift system is located on the vertical section of the L-shaped frame.

[0007] As discussed in the above-mentioned prior arts, various conventional methods exist for retrieving objects from difficult locations. However, these methods often lack precision in identifying the ball's position and do not provide an automated solution to guide users in the retrieval process. Additionally, existing systems do not ensure proper handling of the retrieved ball, leading to potential contamination or damage.

[0008] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to be capable of providing an intelligent mechanism for locating and retrieving a dropped ball with minimal effort. The developed device should allow users to precisely identify the ball’s position, retrieve it effectively from different terrains, and ensure proper handling of the ball, thereby enhancing convenience and efficiency.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0010] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of helping users quickly and accurately determine the exact position of a dropped ball, even in low-visibility or obstructed environments, ensuring a precise retrieval process.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of enabling users to retrieve the ball without manual effort, minimizing the risk of improper handling or failure in difficult conditions, such as uneven surfaces or the presence of sludge.

[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of ensuring that the ball is retrieved in a hygienic manner, reducing the need for physical contact and providing additional features to maintain the ball’s cleanliness before further use.

[0013] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The present invention relates to a dropped ball retrieval assistive device that is accessed by a user for retrieving a dropped ball from a ditch while also determining the exact location of the ball and guiding the user to position the system accurately, thereby ensuring seamless retrieval of the ball without errors.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a dropped ball retrieval assistive device comprises of an elongated extendable body having a proximal end attached with a handle that is to be gripped by a user for manipulating the body to position in proximity to a ditch, a microphone is integrated in the body for enabling the user to provide input voice commands for retrieving a dropped ball from the ditch, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit paired with a processor, and installed on the body for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of the body, respectively to determine distance of the ditch’s surface from the body, based on which an inbuilt microcontroller actuates the body to extend/retract for positioning a distal end of the body over the ditch’s surface, a thermal imaging module mounted on the distal end for determining exact position of the dropped ball, along with dimensions of the ball, a laser projection unit installed on the body to emit a laser beam onto the ditch for projecting the ball’s exact position, in view of guiding the user to position the body over the projected laser beam.

[0016] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of a hemispherical member installed on the distal end constructed with a plurality of expandable plates, integrated with multiple motorized hinges, for adjusting size and arc of the member, to allow the member to grab the dropped ball from the ditch, a vibrating unit is integrated in the sections for generating vibrational sensations to dislodge stubborn residues from the scrubber during the cleaning, an electronically controlled nozzle is installed on the body for spraying a pressurized flow of water from a chamber configured with the nozzle onto the member and retrieved ball for cleaning the ball, a motorized ball and socket joint is provided in between the distal end and the member for allowing controlled movement of the member to get oriented in multiple directions for grabbing the ball properly, a viscosity sensor is integrated in the member for detecting viscosity of any sludge present in the ditch and a battery is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[0017] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a dropped ball retrieval assistive device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0020] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0021] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0022] The present invention relates to a dropped ball retrieval assistive device that is accessed by a user for retrieving a dropped ball from a ditch based on its detected position to ensure precise grasping of the ball irrespective of varying environmental conditions and also facilitates proper handling of the retrieved ball by maintaining its cleanliness, thereby enhancing user convenience and efficiency in ball retrieval.

[0023] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a dropped ball retrieval assistive device is illustrated, comprising an elongated extendable body 101 attached with a handle 102, a microphone 103 is integrated in the body 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 installed on the body 101, a thermal imaging module 105 mounted on the distal end, a laser projection unit 106 installed on the body 101, a hemispherical member 107 installed on the distal end constructed with a plurality of expandable plates 108, integrated with multiple motorized hinges 109, an electronically controlled nozzle 110 is installed on the body 101, a chamber 111 configured with the nozzle 110 and a motorized ball and socket joint 112 is provided in between the distal end and the member 107.

[0024] The device disclosed herein comprises an elongated extendable body 101, which serves as the main structure of the device and is manipulated by a user to retrieve a dropped ball from a ditch. The body 101 mentioned herein has a proximal end attached with a handle 102, which is to be gripped by the user for manoeuvring the device. The handle 102 is ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable grip, allowing the user to control the positioning of the device with ease. Integrated within the body 101 is a microphone 103, which enables the user to provide input voice commands for retrieving the dropped ball from the ditch.

[0025] After positioning the device in proximity to the ditch, the user activates the device for further operation by providing a voice command, which is detected by the integrated microphone 103. The microphone 103 captures the voice input and transmits it as an electrical signal to an inbuilt microcontroller associated with the device. The microphone 103 plays a crucial role by converting spoken words or commands into electrical signals which are then processed and analyzed to trigger specific actions. When the user speaks or commands, their vocal cords vibrate, creating sound waves. These sound waves travel through the air as variations in air pressure. The microphone 103 mentioned herein is a transducer that converts these variations in air into electric signals. The analog electrical signal is converted into digital form which is done by an analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The digital signal is then subjected to various signal processing techniques to enhance voice quality and eliminate noise. The microcontroller processes the received signal and subsequently initiates the operation of the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 installed on the body 101.

[0026] The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 is paired with a processor and is adapted to capture and process multiple images in the vicinity of the body 101. The imaging unit 104 features a camera lens designed to obtain a series of images, which are analyzed in real-time by the processor. The processor carries out a sequence of image processing operations, including pre-processing, feature extraction, and distance measurement by utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning protools, wherein the captured images are compared against pre-fed data stored in an internal database. Based on the processed data, the microcontroller determines the distance of the ditch’s surface from the body 101 and subsequently actuates the body 101 to extend or retract for positioning the distal end of the body 101 over the ditch’s surface.

[0027] Upon successful positioning of the distal end, the thermal imaging module 105 mounted on the distal end is activated to determine the exact position of the dropped ball along with its dimensions. The thermal imaging module 105 is designed to detect infrared radiation emitted by the dropped ball, thereby identifying its precise location within the ditch. The microcontroller interprets the thermal imaging data and actuates a laser projection unit 106 installed on the body 101. The laser projection unit 106 emits a laser beam onto the ditch, marking the exact position of the ball. The projected laser beam serves as a visual guide for the user, assisting in aligning the device over the designated position for accurate retrieval.

[0028] A hemispherical member 107 is installed on the distal end of the body 101 and is constructed with a plurality of expandable plates 108 integrated with multiple motorized hinges 109. The expandable plates 108 are designed to adjust their size and arc based on the determined dimensions of the dropped ball. The microcontroller synchronously actuates the plates 108 and motorized hinges 109, allowing the hemispherical member 107 to expand or contract as needed to securely grasp the ball. Once the ball is successfully grasped, the microcontroller commands the body 101 to retract, thereby retrieving the ball from the ditch and bringing it to the user.

[0029] To ensure efficient retrieval in varying ditch conditions, the device is equipped with additional functional modules. A viscosity sensor is integrated within the hemispherical member 107 for detecting the viscosity of any sludge present in the ditch. The viscosity sensor measures resistance within the sludge and transmits the detected data to the microcontroller. Based on the measured viscosity, the microcontroller adjusts the force applied by the device to optimize retrieval without excessive resistance, thereby ensuring a smooth operation.

[0030] A motorized ball and socket joint 112 is provided between the distal end of the body 101 and the hemispherical member 107, allowing controlled movement of the member 107. The motorized joint facilitates multi-directional adjustments, enabling the hemispherical member 107 to orient itself for properly grabbing the dropped ball regardless of its positioning within the ditch.

[0031] Additionally, an electronically controlled nozzle 110 is installed on the body 101 for cleaning the retrieved ball. The electronically controlled nozzle 110 is connected to a chamber 111 storing a pressurized flow of water. The electronic nozzle 110 works by utilizing electrical energy to automize the flow solution in a controlled flow pattern by converting the pressure energy of a fluid into kinetic energy, which increases the fluid's velocity Upon actuation of nozzle 110 by the microcontroller, the electric motor or the pump pressurizes the incoming water, increasing its pressure significantly. High pressure enables the water to be sprayed out with a high force onto the hemispherical member 107 and the retrieved ball, effectively removing dirt, debris, and other contaminants from the ball’s surface before being handed to the user.

[0032] A vibrating unit is integrated within sections of the device to assist in dislodging stubborn residues from the hemispherical member 107. The vibrating unit generates vibrational sensations, which help shake off accumulated dirt and sludge from the member 107, ensuring it remains clean and functional for subsequent retrieval operations.

[0033] A battery is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrode named as a cathode and an anode. The battery uses a chemical reaction of oxidation/reduction to do work on charge and produce a voltage between their anode and cathode and thus produces electrical energy that is used to do work in the device.

[0034] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the elongated extendable body 101 having the handle 102 that is to be gripped by the user for manipulating said body 101 to position in proximity to the ditch, the microphone 103 enabling said user to provide input voice commands for retrieving the dropped ball from said ditch, the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 captures multiple images in vicinity of said body 101, respectively to determine distance of said ditch’s surface from said body 101, based on which the microcontroller actuates said body 101 to extend/retract for positioning the distal end of said body 101 over said ditch’s surface, the thermal imaging module 105 for determining exact position of said dropped ball, along with dimensions of said ball. Further, the laser projection unit 106 emits the laser beam onto said ditch for projecting said ball’s exact position, in view of guiding said user to position said body 101 over said projected laser beam, the hemispherical member 107 with the plurality of expandable plates 108, integrated with multiple motorized hinges 109, for adjusting size and arc of said member 107, to allow said member 107 to grab said dropped ball from said ditch, the vibrating unit is integrated in said sections for generating vibrational sensations to dislodge stubborn residues from said scrubber during said cleaning. Simultaneously, the electronically controlled nozzle 110 spraying the pressurized flow of water from the chamber 111 configured with said nozzle 110 onto said member 107 and retrieved ball for cleaning said ball, the motorized ball and socket joint 112 for allowing controlled movement of said member 107 to get oriented in multiple directions for grabbing said ball properly, the viscosity sensor for detecting viscosity of any sludge present in said ditch.

[0035] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A dropped ball retrieval assistive device, comprising:

i) an elongated extendable body 101 having a proximal end attached with a handle 102 that is to be gripped by a user for manipulating said body 101 to position in proximity to a ditch, wherein a microphone 103 is integrated in said body 101 for enabling said user to provide input voice commands for retrieving a dropped ball from said ditch;
ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 paired with a processor, and installed on said body 101 for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of said body 101, respectively to determine distance of said ditch’s surface from said body 101, based on which an inbuilt microcontroller actuates said body 101 to extend/retract for positioning a distal end of said body 101 over said ditch’s surface;
iii) a thermal imaging module 105 mounted on said distal end for determining exact position of said dropped ball, along with dimensions of said ball, wherein based on said detected positon, said microcontroller actuates a laser projection unit 106 installed on said body 101 to emit a laser beam onto said ditch for projecting said ball’s exact position, in view of guiding said user to position said body 101 over said projected laser beam; and
iv) a hemispherical member 107 installed on said distal end constructed with a plurality of expandable plates 108, integrated with multiple motorized hinges 109, wherein based on said determined dimensions of said ball, said microcontroller synchronously actuates said plates 108 and hinges 109 for adjusting size and arc of said member 107, to allow said member 107 to grab said dropped ball from said ditch, followed by retraction of said body 101 for successfully retrieving said ball from said ditch.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a vibrating unit is integrated in said sections for generating vibrational sensations to dislodge stubborn residues from said scrubber during said cleaning.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an electronically controlled nozzle 110 is installed on said body 101 for spraying a pressurized flow of water from a chamber 111 configured with said nozzle 110 onto said member 107 and retrieved ball for cleaning said ball.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a motorized ball and socket joint 112 is provided in between said distal end and said member 107 for allowing controlled movement of said member 107 to get oriented in multiple directions for grabbing said ball properly.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a viscosity sensor is integrated in said member 107 for detecting viscosity of any sludge present in said ditch, based on which said microcontroller regulates operation of said device to apply optimum force for successfully retrieving said ball from said ditch, thereby ensuring efficient ball retrieval in varying sludge conditions.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.