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Week 03 — Sept 21-27, 2025

Overview

Updated Constraints/Criteria/Objectives table after discussions last sync.

Criteria Constraint Value
Spin No/little spin < 1 rpm
Horizontal travel of ball Final ball position across net x = -6.5 to +3.25 meters
Final ball position above net Final ball position above net y = 0.2 to 1 meters
Final ball position from net Final ball position from net z = 0.2 to 3 meters
Arc peak above net Arc peak above net y = 0.2 to 3 meters
Arc consistency Arc consistency < 0.3 meter deviation
Arc accuracy Arc accuracy < 0.3 meter deviation
Solution footprint Solution footprint x = -1 to +1 meters
y = 0.75 meters (from net)
Volleyball capability Compliant volleyballs Regulation FIVB/NCAA indoor volleyballs
Game environment replicability Audio/visual cues Visuals for capture and release
Audio for game status
User interface Adjustable set selection 10 front-row sets
3 back-row sets
Training integration Setup time < 30 minutes
Court Usability Placement and storage Powered and operated from 2 ½ position
Fit standard gym doors
Safety Automated safety features Inaccessible pinch points
Auto shutoff if tipped
Affordability Cost < $3000 CAD
Objective Value
No/little spin 0 rpm
Final ball position across net x = -8 to +5 meters
Final ball position from net z = -0.5 to +5 meters
Arc peak above net y = 0.2 to 5 meters
Arc consistency < 0.1 meter deviation
Arc accuracy < 0.1 meter deviation
Solution footprint x = -0.75 to +0.75 meters
y = 0.75 meters (from net)
Compliant volleyballs All standard size volleyballs
Adjustable set selection Any custom set placement and arc
Setup time < 15 minutes
Cost < $2500 CAD
Active Launchers Passive Holders
Two-wheeled volleyball serving machine Passive ball holder for singular ball
Two-wheeled volleyball serving machine Passive ball holder with ball storage and loading
Three-wheeled volleyball serving machine
Lever arm volleyball launcher
Tennis ball launcher

Solutions

Solution A

Solution A

Solution B

Solution B

Solution C

Solution C

Solution D

Solution D

Additional Sketches

Sketch 1

Sketch 2

Sketch 3

Individual Updates

Austin

  • Reorganized Constraints/Criteria/Objectives
  • Proposed designs for a belt driven ball launching mechanism, and conducted research
  • Co-write and submitted application for Engineer of the Future Fund
  • Discussed embedded system implementation details

Grace

  • Defined functional sub-modules for design solution brainstorming
  • Conceptualized solutions for sub-modules and evaluated based on criteria
    • Downselected to active motor-driven launcher instead of passive spring-loaded mechanism
  • Refined 'flywheel' and 'pinball' launcher mechanisms
  • Enabling 'flywheel' proof-of-concept prototype to understand mechanism limitations
    • Designed 3D printed parts that reuse motors & hardware of existing ball launcher

Kevin

  • Brainstormed designs for different sub-systems
  • Conceptual design of launching mechanisms
  • Printed parts for prototype launcher for testing
  • Wrote and submitted application for Engineer of the future fund

Vincent

  • Find patents for passive volleyball hitter trainers and active volleyball launchers
  • Reorganized Constraints/Criteria/Objectives
    • Created new tables based on discussion
  • Formulated linear actuator launching mechanisms
    • Cradle on linear rails to hold the ball
    • Launched by pulley system driven by motors
  • Website management