ThongPaDisp: An open-source 3D-printed shuttlecock dispenser using a Grip-Gate-Push mechanism

Area of Science:

• Robotics and Automation
• Mechanical Engineering
• Sports Technology

Background:

• Conventional shuttlecock dispensers often jam due to feather deformation and interlocking.
• Existing gravity-only systems lack reliability, especially with used shuttlecocks.
• Automated feeding systems are needed to improve efficiency in sports training and testing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate ThongPaDisp, a low-cost, open-source, 3D-printed shuttlecock dispenser.
• To implement and test the novel Grip-Gate-Push mechanism for enhanced dispensing reliability.
• To compare the performance of the new mechanism against conventional gravity-only systems.

Main Methods:

• Designed and 3D-printed a modular shuttlecock dispenser (ThongPaDisp) with a Grip-Gate-Push mechanism.
• Integrated three servo motors synchronized by a microcontroller for automated extraction.
• Implemented two operating modes: automatic (hand detection) and manual (infrared remote).
• Conducted experimental evaluations using new and used shuttlecocks across multiple trials.

Main Results:

• The Grip-Gate-Push configuration achieved 0% jamming for new and 1.7% for used shuttlecocks, with a mean release time of 0.61 s.
• Conventional Grip-Gate (gravity-only) systems showed significantly higher jamming rates (3.3% new, 40.0% used) and a mean fall time of 0.29 s.
• ThongPaDisp demonstrated improved reliability and consistent shuttlecock dispensing.

Conclusions:

• The ThongPaDisp with the Grip-Gate-Push mechanism offers a reliable solution for automated shuttlecock dispensing.
• The open-source, 3D-printed design facilitates accessibility, customization, and further innovation in sports technology.
• This automated system has the potential to enhance training and testing protocols in sports involving shuttlecocks.