[001] LINEAR IN-SITU MULTIPLE CRICKET PITCH SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRANSITIONING BETWEEN PITCHES

FIELD OF THE INVENTION:

[002] The present invention relates to the field of cricket pitch arrangements and, more specifically, to a system and method for providing multiple cricket pitches in an in-situ manner, minimizing time delays during matches.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:

[003] Cricket, being a popular sport played worldwide, has always faced challenges when it comes to accommodating multiple pitches within limited space. Traditional cricket facilities have struggled with inefficiencies and reduced playing opportunities due to the lengthy setup and adjustment procedures required for changing match pitches. These challenges not only impact the overall schedule of cricket tournaments or events but also affect the viewer experience.

[004] In the past, conventional methods of changing cricket match pitches were limited in terms of flexibility and efficiency. Pitch adjustments involved labor-intensive processes that were timeconsuming, leading to significant delays between matches. These delays not only disrupted the flow of the tournament but also affected the experience of the players and viewers.

[005] Our invention integrates automated pitch adjustment mechanisms. By employing hydraulic or motorized systems, we streamline the pitch adjustment process, eliminating manual labor and reducing setup time. This automation not only expedites the transition between matches but also ensures accurate positioning of the pitch modules, maintaining standardized dimensions and consistent playing conditions. These improvements enhance the overall efficiency of cricket facilities, reduce transition time between matches, and provide a superior experience for players and viewers alike. OBJECT OF THE INVENTION:

[006] It is an object of the invention to provide an efficient system for creating multiple cricket pitches on-site. Another object of the invention is to perform change of pitches without causing extensive delays during matches. Yet another object of the invention is to provide a novel linear or stack-wise arrangement of drop-in pitches, facilitated by traction motors, hydraulic jacks, and an underground support system.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

[007] The linear in-situ multiple cricket pitch system is an innovative solution designed to enable swift transitions between multiple pitches. The system comprises several key components, including a cuboidal cut-out shaped support system, drop-in pitches, a geo-technically reinforced supporting base, traction motors, horizontally running rails, a hydraulic jack system, and a plank support system.

[008] The cuboidal cut-out base rotates to position the pitch in play, ensuring precise alignment and readiness. The hydraulic jack system efficiently lifts and places the pitches, enabling smooth transitions between playing surfaces.

[009] The drop-in pitches, located underground, can be customized to meet specific pitch requirements. The system can accommodate additional drop-in pitches to accommodate a wider range of playing surfaces. The geo-technically reinforced supporting base ensures stability and durability, capable of withstanding the players' movements and maintaining a solid playing ground.

[010] The horizontally running rails provide a mechanism for effortless movement and positioning of the drop-in pitches within the system. Incorporating sensors and edge detection algorithms, the system allows for automated and accurate control over pitch movement and positioning.

[011] The plank support system consists of removable supporting beams that adapt to different pitch configurations. It ensures the proper support and alignment of the pitch to be brought into play, ensuring optimal gameplay conditions. [012] Furthermore, the invention offers alternative arrangements, such as the stack-based and roll-on approaches, providing additional versatility in pitch transitions.

[013] The system's smooth transition mechanism, involving traction motors and hydraulic jacks, allows for swift positioning of the pitch at the desired location, while the underground support system ensures stability and safe playing conditions. By combining these unique features, the invention ensures the timely availability of multiple pitches during the course of play, eliminating the need for extensive preparation time between matches.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES:

[014] Figure 1 presents the linear in-situ multiple cricket pitch system.

[015] Figure 2 represents the working of linear in-situ multiple cricket pitch system.

[016] Figure 3 represents Hydraulic jack system.

[017] Figure 4 represents cross-sectional view of the linear multiple cricket pitch system.

[018] Figure 5 represents axis for calculation of Moment of inertia about I _xx for Cuboidal cut-out shaped support system for pitch in play.

[019] Figure 6 showcases stack-wise arrangement as an embodiment of linear in-situ multiple cricket pitch system.

[020] Figure 7 represents roll-on arrangement as an embodiment of linear in-situ multiple cricket pitch system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:

[021] The following Specification particularly describes and ascertains the nature of this invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

[022] Figure 1 and 2 represent linear in-situ multiple cricket pitch system designed to efficiently provide multiple pitches during Cricket matches within a short time frame. The system employs an underground linear arrangement of pitches, comprising of components Cuboidal cut-out shaped support system (101) for supporting the pitch in play; Drop-in Pitch in play (102), Geo- technically reinforced supporting base (103) for sideways area above of center pitch; Drop-in pitches (104a, 104b, 104c) not in play lying on the foundation base (105), traction motor (106) and horizontally running rails (107)used for movement of the pitches, a central motor (108) fixed to the cuboidal base (101) aids in the rotation process, circular arc shaped cylindrical cut-out (109) running throughout the length of pitch and open on the upper side in foundation base providing support to the pitch in play, hydraulic jack system (201) for lifting pitch in play (102) and plank support system (202) serves the purpose of providing support to the pitch that is to be brought into play.

[023] Figure 3 shows the hydraulic jack system (201) with hydraulic jacks (2011) lifting the drop-in pitch in play (102) using heavy density material input force (2012) such as steel or osmium.

[024] The linear in-situ multiple cricket pitch system incorporates plurality of above components, working together to ensure smooth gameplay transitions. The Preferred embodiment explaining the features and functionalities of each component is given below.

[025] 1. The cuboidal cut-out base (101) is designed with a depth of 5-9 feet from the center. The support system's rotation allows for a maximum height of 7-9 feet on one edge, enabling accommodation of a 20-inch slab of the drop-in pitch (102). A high-torque motor facilitates the rotation of the base, positioning it beneath the pitch for gameplay. The cuboidal cut-out section is specifically designed to avoid interfering with the hydraulic jack support system (201) by incorporating cut-outs in those areas.

[026] To ensure stability and structural integrity, the cuboidal cut-out base is secured in place within the center pitch area using automatic external piles. The base is preferably composed of iron, while the entire volume is filled with geo-technically reinforced soil. The use of soil filling makes the base lighter, facilitating easier rotation. Additionally, cementing may be applied inside the volume of the cuboidal base for added strength. An extreme torque motor is required to facilitate the rotation of the cuboidal base. A central motor (108) fixed to the base aids in the rotation process, providing support to the pitch in play and sideways motors (106) allows for pitch changes by pulling the base using iron chains or belts. Ideally, the cuboidal base rotates 180 degrees to the left or right and reverses when changing the pitch. [027] 2. Geo-technically reinforced supporting base (103) for sideways area above the underlying pitches is designed to be relatively thin and geotechnically reinforced. Its purpose is to maintain the solidity and strength of the ground surrounding the pitch in play, ensuring it can withstand the thrusts generated by player movement during the game. The reinforcement of the soil does not involve the use of adhesives. The thickness of the supporting base depends on the specific requirements and adjustments of the linear in-situ cricket pitches system. In one of the preferred embodiments, it is at least 20-22 inches. The supporting base for sideways area above of the underlying pitches should rest on a concrete or iron base for stronger stability.

[028] 3. Drop-in pitches (104a, 104b... 104c) in the system are positioned beneath the ground at a depth of approximately 5-9 feet on the foundation base. They are arranged parallel to one another. The depth of the drop-in pitch trays can be adjusted based on the specific type of pitch being used. For pitches of Indian sub-continent type, the drop-in pitches would need to be placed at a greater depth, approximately 10 feet, while ensuring the foundation base is also deeper. In one of the preferred embodiments, the system includes three drop-in pitches, each with a depth of 20 cm or inches, in addition to the pitch in play. However, it is possible to accommodate more drop-in pitches if the ground area allows for it, as the system can be designed to accommodate a wider range of pitches within the available space.

[029] 4. The foundation base (105) serves as the resting platform for the drop-in pitches (104a etc.) and is situated at the lowest level of the system. The foundation base is typically located 5-9 feet below the ground level if the cuboidal support system (101) is positioned at that depth. The foundation base (105) has circular arc shaped cylindrical cut-out (109) running throughout the length of pitch and open on its upper end for the movement of cuboidal support system (101), with a diameter of 10-15 feet, providing space for the rotation of the cuboidal support system (101) to establish a stable platform for matches played on the pitch in play. The foundation base (105) serves as the resting platform for the drop-in pitches (104a etc.) and is situated at the lowest level of the system. The foundation base is typically located 5-9 feet below the ground level if the cuboidal support system (101) is positioned at that depth. However, this depth can be adjusted to accommodate deeper pitch types, such as those found in the Indian sub-continent.

[030] 5. Traction motors (106) are positioned at both ends of the system, responsible for pulling the underground drop-in pitches (104a, etc.). Each of the two traction motors is connected to a rotating pulley located at the horizontal level, designed to provide maximum torque. Traction motors are equipped with excellent braking capability. This ensures that the system can be stopped promptly and precisely whenever required, providing control and safety during operation. The braking mechanism is reliable and responsive, enabling quick and controlled stopping of the system as needed. Calculation for torque and power required by traction motors are given as follows: -

[031] Let the co-efficient of rolling friction is μ Neglecting friction as mass of the system at maximum capacity is120 tons (for three pitches) we get and mass of chains is negligible compared to total mass,

[032] Tension, T=f =μN

[033] T ₁ =μN, T ₂ = T ₁ +f ₂ =μMg+μMg, T ₃ =T ₂ + f ₃ = μMg+μMg+μMg T ₄ =T+f ₄ = μMg+ μMg+μMg+μMg=4μMg

Total force=2T ₃ =2*4 μMg=8μMg

Let Radius of pulley=R

Torque=F.R=8 μMgR

Rating of traction motor, power: -

[034] The mass of chain or belt can be ignored as the system has heavy load of 120 tons. Let minimum angular velocity=co

[035] Power=τ.ω =τ.2π/60 rpm

[036] Therefore, Power=8μMgR.2π/60rpm=16μMgR.π/60rpm.

Mass M of the pitch system=30tons=30000Kg, g=9.8 m/s ^Λ 2,

[037] R=0.2m, we have, Power=49260 μrpm [038] Assuming, μ==0.3, Power=49260*0.3rpm=14778.05 rpm

[039] 6. Horizontally running rails (107) is the iron chain and pulley mechanism or conveyor belt, providing a mechanism for moving and positioning the drop-in pitches within the system. These pulleys enable the movement of the system along the rails on the foundation base (105). The use of rolling friction minimizes wear and tear on the iron chains, conveyor belts, or similar components, allowing the motors to operate efficiently for extended periods. The conveyor belts or chains grip and release the drop-in pitch trays automatically. This process is controlled by sensors, such as proximity sensors or temperature -based sensors, utilizing edge detection algorithms based on the Internet of Things (loT) technology. These sensors detect the position or temperature of the pitches and trigger the corresponding actions, ensuring seamless and automated movement of the pitches within the system.

[040] In one of the preferred embodiments, a series of conveyor belts or chains, typically made of iron or other suitable materials, are employed to connect all the pitches within the system. The movement of the pitches is facilitated by a pulley and two traction motors (106) located on both ends of each pitch series.

[041] 7. The hydraulic jack system (201) has minimum of four hydraulic jacks (2011) with a capacity of 72-74 kN wherein each are utilized to lift and position the pitches onto the central hydraulic jack system. The four hydraulic jacks are located at the corners of the pitch, positioned at a distance of 22-25 meters on the ends of the cricket pitches and with a width of approximately 9- 11 feet. These jacks are specifically designed to raise a drop-in pitch weighing 28-31 tons to a height of 6.5-7.5 feet above the ground level, aligning it with the rotated cuboidal support plank system without disrupting the pitch being replaced.

[042] In a preferred embodiment, the hydraulic jack system (201) features pistons positioned at the corners of the 24m * 10 feet pitch area, allowing the supporting plank system (202) to operate smoothly. The hydraulic system (201) is situated at the base of the overall system to facilitate the lifting of a distributed load of 7.5 metric tons on each hydraulic jack. The force can be calculated by F ₁ /A ₁ =F ₂ /A ₂ Or, F ₁ d ₁ = F ₂ d ₂ Or, d ₁ = (F ₂ / F ₁ ) *d ₂ = (A ₂ /A ₁ )*d ₂ . Considering a radius of 1 meter for the pistons of all four hydraulic lifts and an output force of 73,500 N (calculated as 30,000 * 9.8 / 4), high-density materials like steel or osmium are used as input forces on each of the four hydraulic jacks. This material choice takes advantage of the weight of steel, which is approximately 78.5 kN/m ^Λ 3, to lift the system. The hydraulic jacks may incorporate check valves to enable reiterative lifting motion.

[043] 8. The supporting plank system (202) operates as a series of supporting beams, placed in close contact with each other, designed to run automatically using microprocessors, controllers, and sensors located beneath the reinforced soil outside the central pitch area, below ground level. The beams are arranged in a linear fashion, closely aligned with one another, and can be inserted or removed in a sequential manner to accommodate the desired pitch configuration.

[044] The supporting plank system (202) serves the purpose of providing support to the pitch that is to be brought into play. It consists of stainless steel or iron rails and has a depth of 18-22 inches. The system is designed to withstand gaming thrusts and is linearly pushed or pulled to be positioned under the pitch as a series of parallel rails. This arrangement allows for the pitch to be changed once it reaches the center location. Along with supporting plank system (202), there can be arrangement of abutment piles passing though the circular cut out and entering the cuboidal base to fix into it.

[045] Figure 4 represents the cross-sectional view of the linear multiple pitches system wherein Drop- in Pitch in play (102) lifted by hydraulic jack system (201) and other components are visible.

[046] Figure 5 represent axis for calculation of Moment of inertia about Ixx for Cuboidal cut-out shaped support system for pitch in play. The motor rating calculation by calculating the moment of inertia of the cuboidal sub-section filled with soils as follows: -

[047] l _GG =l/12*M _c (b ^Λ 2+h ^Λ 2)

Ixx= I _GG +M _c (h/2) ^Λ 2

=M _c (b ^Λ 2 +4h ^Λ 2)/12

=90000(3.048 ^Λ 2 + 4 * 1.524 ^Λ 2)/12

= 139.350* 10 ^Λ 3Kg-m ^Λ 2

[048] Torque - I *α where α is angular acceleration =1 * dω /dt We need rotation as 1rpm [049] Hence=1 rpm, ω _f =(2π*1/60) rad/sec, ω ₀ =0, t=0.1seconds to reach1 rpm

[050] Therefore, approx. Torque=139.350*10 ^Λ 3*2π*1/60N-m/0.1=145.853*10 ^Λ 3N-m

[051] Approx. Mechanical power - torque*angular speed=145.853*10 ^Λ 3* 2π * 1/60=152.65kW

[052] Considering al losses of motor and inertia, we take efficiency at 70%, hence, Power required=152.65/0.70=218.071 kW (approx.)

[053] Figure 6 represents stack-wise arrangement as an embodiment of linear in-situ multiple cricket pitch system wherein Drop-in pitches( 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d) are placed on top of each other as stack, horizontal Jack (601) to push the pitch to come to central hydraulic jack (201) and brought into the center of the playing area using hydraulic jacks (201) or similar lifting systems with the assistance of mechanical linkages or levers (602) to lift the pitch to provide precision control of movement of pitch. The stack arrangement, allows for gaps between the stacked pitches to prevent any interference or damage. Two racks on each side of the central pitch area accommodate the pitches, and from these racks, the pitches are brought onto the central lifting system using levers (602) in conjunction with hydraulic or pneumatic mechanisms (201). The lifting mechanism is responsible for holding the pitch in question or the one to be brought into play in the center area until the supporting plank system (202) or the cuboidal support system (101) rotates and aligns underneath it. This ensures that the pitch remains fixed on a surface, providing the necessary normal reaction and functionality similar to a regular pitch. The upper ends of the central hydraulic jack system (201) may be made wider so that the pitches do not fall off while getting into the center position to be lifted upwards for bringing into play.

[054] There is a minimal risk of the pitch falling or becoming inclined due to the dimensions of the system. With a total pitch width of approximately 3 meters and hydraulic jacks occupying 1 meter, only 1 meter of the pitch will be elevated while the remaining 2 meters will be supported by one of the hydraulic jacks. The sides of the hydraulic jacks on each side can be positioned 1.5 meters alongside the width of the pitches, ensuring stability and proper support during the lifting process.

[055] Figure 7 represents roll-on arrangement as an embodiment of linear in-situ multiple cricket pitch system. There are two traction motors (106) underneath the pitches at the two corners of the foundation base to move the pitches, two hydraulic jacks (701) to lift the pitch in play (102) and rollers (703) to move on the pitches. Once the pitch in play (102) reaches the desired top position with the help of connecting belts or iron chains or such connecting material (107) for installation, the jacks (701) will open sequentially. If the pitch has moved from left to right, the hydraulic jack on the right side will open and provide a resting surface for the pitch when it is in the central position.

[056] In one preferred embodiment, the in-situ multiple pitch systems include the installation of artificial lighting, such as halogen lighting or incandescent lighting, above each drop-in pitch to ensure the grass remains green. Additionally, air tubes are employed underground to provide air flow above the pitches. Furthermore, a drainage system is implemented beneath the pitches to facilitate easy maintenance and proper water management.

[057] In the preceding specification, the invention has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments thereof. It will be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereunto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims that follow. The specification and drawings are accordingly to be regarded in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense. Therefore, the aim in the appended claims is to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. The matter set forth in the foregoing description and accompanying drawings is offered by way of illustration only and not as a limitation. The actual scope of the invention is intended to be defined in the following claims.