Device and method for launching a projectile

Abstract

A handheld device for launching a projectile and methods of use thereof are herein disclosed. The device includes an elongated shaft, a sling retaining member, and a sling. A portion of the sling slidably couples with the sling retaining member such that it uncouples, in use, when the elongated shaft is swung. The device can be used, in lieu of a golf club, to play the sport of golf in a unique manner.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. provisional application No. 63 / 198,634, filed Oct. 30, 2020, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for playing a game and, more particularly, to a handheld projectile throwing device that accurately launches a game ball and a method of playing a game utilizing the same.[0003]Golf is very frustrating for the beginner or occasional player. It is difficult for inexperienced players to simply make contact with the ball using a golf club, let alone advance the ball accurately and consistently. This causes slow play and increases the time of play for every golfer that plays after the beginner tees off, thus decreasing the number of tee times a golf course can schedule and limiting course revenues. This frustration causes many who try the game to quit and never advance their skills ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]Broadly, an embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus and method for hurling a projectile. In accordance with the present invention, anyone who is able to throw an object, cast a fishing rod, or even wave “hello” is able to accurately launch a projectile, such as a golf ball, in the direction desired with enough distance to play an enjoyable game such as golf. This is an advantage to beginners as they can immediately play alongside experienced players and learn the lessons of etiquette and integrity that golf offers. This is also an advantage to golf courses because beginners will be able to keep up with the necessary pace of play required by the course and a larger population of people will be able to play thus increasing demand for the game and use of the course and its instructors.

[0009]Furthermore, the present invention does not damage the turf by taking a divot, so players using this apparatus do not damage the turf of the course. This apparatus is an advantage to intermediate players because by greatly increasing their ability to play from the fairway and hit greens with their approach shots, average players can learn the advanced lessons of strategy and mindset that golf offers. This is an advantage to elderly golfers as they can continue to enjoy the game and the social benefits that come with it. This is an advantage to people with certain physical disabilities, such as paraplegics and amputees, as it opens up the whole world of golf and all that it provides in the way of outdoor exercise, fellowship, and enjoyable sports competition. With the present invention, the game of golf can become an activity enjoyed by the whole family, regardless of age or experience with the game.

[0010]The present invention is more consistent, accurate, and provides greater distance of projectile flight, than other currently existing inventions that might be considered similar. Its use is simpler in execution so requires less instruction and practice for better results than anything that exists in its field. This device is safer and more enjoyable to use because of its accuracy and consistent results.

[0011]The present invention is designed to launch its projectile utilizing a simple overhead swing by the user. The user holds the apparatus above their head and then swings in a smooth motion bringing their hands directly in front of their body. When executed in this manner, the projectile is launched on the line that the user is facing. The faster the user swings on this line, the farther the projectile travels on this chosen line. The present invention will automatically release the projectile at a predetermined and adjustable point in the arc of the swing which then launches the projectile on a predetermined and adjustable trajectory. This makes for a consistently repeatable result that is safely accurate and transfers optimal energy to the flight of the projectile and sends the projectile on its optimal trajectory.

[0012]In its simplest form, the shaft, finger, sling strings, and sling pocket are the essential elements of the embodiment described herein. The grip, retainer, and jump rings add functionality and convenience to the device. Shafts of different lengths will allow the users to quickly adjust the distance of their throw. It could be beneficial, for a variety of reasons, if the shafts were of a collapsible construction or constructed of multiple shorter pieces that could be put together to make one long shaft, which will make it more portable. Interchangeable slings of various string length and various sling pocket shapes and materials will increase the versatility and adjustability for players of different heights, strengths, and abilities. Fingers of various lengths and at various angles to the shaft and at various distances of off-set will add functionality and adjustability of trajectory and ball spin.

Problems solved by technology

Golf is very frustrating for the beginner or occasional player.

It is difficult for inexperienced players to simply make contact with the ball using a golf club, let alone advance the ball accurately and consistently.

This causes slow play and increases the time of play for every golfer that plays after the beginner tees off, thus decreasing the number of tee times a golf course can schedule and limiting course revenues.

This frustration causes many who try the game to quit and never advance their skills to the point of playing an enjoyable round of golf.

Consequently, experienced golfers often do not wish to play with beginners and occasional players.

Many people who have enjoyed the game of golf their whole lives quit playing when they reach a certain age because of their inability to hit the ball far enough to enjoy the game.

Many older golfers quit the game because without proper vision they lose the necessary hand to eye coordination needed to hit the ball.

Optimal projectile flight paths require considerable practice with these other existing devices.

There is a danger to other players and spectators from the launched projectiles of these other devices unless the user has achieved the required skill level and is able to time the release of the projectile correctly.

However, with other devices, the faster an individual swings these other devices, the less accurate the outcome because any minor deficiencies to the swing plane are magnified by the increased power of the swing.

If the user of other devices does not swing on the perfect trajectory plane, the projectile will lose distance.

Additionally, the timing of the release of the projectile from the other devices is unreliable.

If the user does not time the release perfectly a great amount of distance is lost in the projectile's flight and the projectile becomes a danger to nearby people and property.

An early release results in the projectile either being dangerously off-line or a shorter and less powerful swing.

A late release results in the projectile either being dangerously off-line or landing forcibly a very short distance directly in front of the user sometimes burying itself into the ground, sometimes bouncing off the ground erratically.

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