1. Automated Pitching Machine
Eric Adamson, Brian Nebzydoski, Ryan Stuby

2. Why? Interest in baseball Better batting practice
Improved hitting
Too expensive to buy one

3. Functional Requirements
Throw different pitches
Fastball, Curveball, Knuckleball, Changeup
Produce accurate pitches within the strike zone
Randomize pitch, pitch location, and speed
Max speed of 100 mph
Delay between pitches
Notify batter when pitch is delivered

4. Physical Requirements
Dimensions
Throw from 60’6”
63”H x 26”W x 25”D
Roughly 100 lb.
Wheels to make it portable
Strong, Durable steel base

5. Performance Requirements
Pitch balls within 40 square inches (official strike zone)
Speeds ranging from 60mph – 100mph
Pitch accuracy ± 5 in radius
With no wind (ideal conditions)
Pitch thrown every 10 seconds
Countdown for batter with indicator lights

6. Methods of Testing Timer to check pitches and indicator lights
Screen for strike zone accuracy
Radar gun to verify speed

7. Safety
Don’t hit the batter
On/Off switch
Housing for wiring

8. Design Concept
Influenced by other requirements (Functional, Performance, Physical, etc.)
Mechanical
Metal Frame
Hopper
Mobile
Electrical
Motor for wheels
Positioning Motors
Motor Controllers
LED indicator
Programming
PLC/Arduino
Control display
Timer for delay

9. Objectives Design Source Parts Assembly Programming
Testing/Troubleshooting
Final Product

10. Weaknesses Programming Time Management Motor controllers knowledge
Budget

11. Potential items to be used
PLC interface or Arduino
3 DC motors (power to be determined)
2 smaller DC stepper motors for positioning
Hopper
Tripod stand
Pitching wheels (Hard rubber)
Baseballs

12. Examples

13. Works Cited
"TriplePlay Basic Pitching Machine." TriplePlay Pitching Machine. N.p., n.d Web. 21 Sept < pitching-machine.php>.
"The Rawlings Pro Line 3 Wheel Pitching Machine." Rawlings Pro Line 3 Wheel Pitching Machines. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Sept <
"Heater Sports - Sports Products | Heater Pitching Machine." Heater Sports – Sports Products | Heater Pitching Machine. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Sept <

14. Questions?