PROJECT
Ball Boy Rob
An automated tennis ball server – delivering balls on demand so players never break their rhythm.
Overview
Ball Boy Rob is a tennis ball serving machine designed to solve a simple but persistent problem: players shouldn't have to chase loose balls before every serve. The machine throws a single ball to each player on demand, using backspin for a controlled, catchable bounce.
The product launches balls up to 13.7 m with a 120° panning range, covering both sides of the court from a single position at the net. It holds 20 balls in two transparent tube hoppers that double as ball collectors.
Industrial design was created by Studio Groove. ATI was responsible for transforming the concept from prototype stage into a production-ready product – including mechanical engineering, prototyping, DFM, vendor sourcing, and production line setup.
Highlights
Precision Launch
Launches balls up to 13.7 m with backspin for a controlled vertical bounce under 1 m.
120° Panning
Motorised pan covers both sides of the court from a single net-post position.
Battery Powered
Rechargeable battery for cordless court-side operation – no mains required.
DFM Optimised
Injection-moulded housing, sheet-metal frame, and off-the-shelf motors for cost-efficient production.
Foldable Transport
Compact folding design with integrated wheels for easy one-person transport and storage.
Field Serviceable
Modular sub-assemblies (launcher, feeder, hopper) for quick maintenance and part replacement.
Specifications
Automated tennis ball server
Alex Voloshin
Studio Groove
13.7 m
120°
20 balls (2 × 10 tube hoppers)
492 × 755 × 1480 mm
Prototyping, DFM, production
Scope of Work
- Mechanical Engineering
- Prototyping
- Design for Manufacturing (DFM)
- Vendor Sourcing
- Production Line Setup
