Dart

Abstract

A dart (1, 31) for electronic darts is proposed, which is equipped with an elongated cylinder (2) designed as a hollow body, a piston (9), a guide pin (10, 40), and a rounded or frustoconical dart tip (11, 11a, 11b, 11c, 41). The cylinder (2) has a first through-opening (4), a cylindrical first cavity (7) extending longitudinally (3), and a second cylindrical cavity (8) extending longitudinally (3) from the first cavity (7). The piston (9) is slidably guided in the second cavity (8) longitudinally (3) of the cylinder (2). It is supported on the cylinder (2) by a spring (13) arranged in the second cavity (8), which is deflected when the piston (9) is moved in the longitudinal direction (3) of the cylinder (2).The guide pin (10, 40) is positioned at its rear end (53) at a front end of the piston (9) and is rigidly connected to it. It is guided in the first cavity (7) and, together with the piston (9), is slidably mounted in the cylinder (2). The front end of the guide pin (10, 40) protrudes from the cylinder (2). The dart tip (11, 11a, 11b, 11c, 41) is located at this front end of the guide pin (10, 40).

Description

[0001] The invention is based on a throwing dart for electronic darts.

[0002] Darts is a throwing game in which darts are thrown at a board divided into segments by markings. Each segment is assigned a point value. The score achieved with a throw depends on which segment the dart lands in. The darts themselves are also called dart arrows. They typically consist of a tip, a central body called the barrel, a shaft attached to the barrel, and flights at the rear of the shaft. Because darts originated in Great Britain, the terminology is typically in English.

[0003] In steel darts, the darts have a metal tip. The dartboard is made of sisal fibers. The segments are bordered by a wire mesh. Since a throw only counts if the dart remains embedded in the board until it is removed, the tips of the steel darts are designed to taper to a sharp point at the front, allowing the dart to penetrate the board as deeply as possible.

[0004] Electronic darts (e-darts) are also known as soft darts, machine darts, or electronic darts. Unlike steel darts, the key feature of electronic darts is that the score of the darts thrown and stuck on the board is automatically recorded. For this purpose, the electronic dartboard is equipped with numerous interconnected, funnel-shaped recesses, each connected to an electronic scoring system. The openings on the front side of the board, facing the player, are larger than those on the back side, facing the scoring system. The opening size decreases continuously from front to back. To prevent damage to the electronic dartboard, electronic darts have a plastic tip that is blunt, or rounded, at the front. Furthermore, the weight of standard electronic darts is limited.Common electronic darts have a rigid construction, with the dart tip permanently attached to the body. Since plastic is a relatively soft material, the plastic dart tip can easily deform with repeated use. A bent dart tip impairs the dart's flight characteristics, making it difficult to aim at the segments of the electronic dartboard. Therefore, electronic darts are often equipped with a replaceable dart tip, typically attached to the dart with a screw. To replace the tip, a deformed one can be unscrewed and a new one screwed on. However, a disadvantage is that replacement is often necessary after only a few throws, resulting in a relatively high consumption of plastic dart tips.This results in a considerable expenditure of time, energy, and costs. Since the plastic dart tips cannot be easily reused or recycled, the frequent replacement of dart tips is associated with environmental pollution.

[0005] The invention is therefore based on the objective of providing a dart for e-darts that has good throwing characteristics without damaging the e-dartboard when penetrating it and in which the frequent replacement of the dart tip can be avoided.

[0006] This problem is solved by a dart with the features of claim 1. The dart is characterized in that the body or barrel of the dart is designed as a cylinder having two longitudinally extending, interconnected cavities. A cylindrical first cavity is located at the front end of the cylinder. This first cavity is connected to the outside of the cylinder via a through-opening. Adjoining the first cavity longitudinally is a cylindrical second cavity, which has a larger cross-section than the first cavity. A piston is longitudinally displaceable in the second cavity and is mounted with essentially no play or with minimal play. The piston is supported against the cylinder by a spring. A guide pin, the cross-section of which is smaller than that of the piston, is arranged at the front end of the piston.The guide pin is rigidly connected to the piston. Either the piston and guide pin are a single unit, or the guide pin is rigidly attached to the piston. Together, the piston and guide pin form a fixed unit that is slidably mounted in the cylinder along the longitudinal axis of the dart, allowing for forward and backward movement. The guide pin, with its rear end attached to or within the piston, is guided slidably in a central section of the first cavity and protrudes from the cylinder with its front section. The guide pin is mounted in the first cavity with virtually no play or with minimal play. It must be ensured that the piston and guide pin can move with minimal friction along the longitudinal direction of the dart, while preventing radial deflection of the guide pin and piston. The front end of the guide pin is fitted with a dart tip.The dart tip can be formed as a single unit with the guide pin or detachably connected to the guide pin, for example, via a screw connection. The dart tip is crucial for the dart's function, as it makes contact with the dartboard. To prevent damage to the electronic dartboard, the dart tip is rounded or frustoconical at its front end, the end furthest from the piston. The piston, guide pin, and dart tip are rigidly connected. When a force is applied to the dart tip upon impact with the electronic dartboard or another object, the unit consisting of the dart tip, guide pin, and piston is displaced longitudinally relative to the cylinder. This causes the spring, which braces the piston against the cylinder, to deflect. The spring deflection provides a restoring force.This ensures that the combination of piston, guide pin, and dart tip returns to its original position relative to the cylinder after impact. The dart's design provides cushioning, absorbing the impact. This protects both the electronic dartboard and the dart tip, preventing damage to the board. Furthermore, it limits or even prevents deformation of the dart tip. The combination of piston, spring, guide pin, and dart tip optimizes energy transfer upon impact, extending the lifespan of the dart tip and, consequently, the entire dart. Moreover, damage to the electronic dartboard is prevented even if the dart tip is made of metal rather than plastic, resulting in a heavier weight compared to standard plastic darts. The guide pin can also be made of metal.Throwing darts with a higher weight have better throwing and flight characteristics.

[0007] The rigid connection between the guide pin and the piston, and the virtually play-free mounting of the guide pin and piston within the cylinder, ensure that longitudinal movement of the guide pin and piston is possible while simultaneously preventing radial deflection. Avoiding radial deflection is crucial to ensure that the dart can reliably and securely penetrate and remain embedded in the funnel-shaped recess of an electronic dartboard.

[0008] The spring can be designed, for example, as a coil spring, leaf spring, pneumatic spring, or hydraulic spring. It is essential that the spring has a higher elasticity than the dart tip, the guide pin, and the piston, so that the forces acting on the dart tip in the axial direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the dart reliably result in a deflection of the spring and not a deformation of the dart tip.

[0009] The specific design of the cavities ensures precise guidance of the piston and guide pin. Since the first cavity has a smaller cross-section than the second cavity and a smaller cross-section than the piston housed within the second cavity, the transition between the first and second cavities acts as a stop for the piston. This securely and permanently holds the piston within the cylinder. The diameter of the second cavity is advantageously matched to the outer diameter of the piston, allowing the piston to be guided with minimal play. Similarly, the diameter of the first cavity is matched to the outer diameter of the guide pin, ensuring the guide pin is guided with minimal play within the first cavity. This arrangement enables precise guidance and movement of the piston and guide pin along the longitudinal axis of the dart.

[0010] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a conical section of the dart point extends longitudinally directly to the front end of the dart tip. This conical section allows the dart to penetrate and become lodged in a funnel-shaped recess of an electronic dartboard. The conical section tapers towards the front of the dart tip, improving both penetration and stability within the recess. The conical section interacts directly with the funnel-shaped recess of the electronic dartboard, ensuring a precise fit that facilitates the dart's retention. This results in an improved hit rate and a more stable position of the dart within the electronic dartboard, which is advantageous for electronic dart systems that rely on accurate hit detection.The tapered section of the dart's conical section towards the front of the darthead facilitates penetration into the electronic dartboard, meaning less force is required to propel the dart into the funnel-shaped recess. This can extend the lifespan of the electronic dartboard by reducing stress on the recess. Furthermore, the conical shape helps to hold the dart securely in the board once inserted, preventing it from easily falling out and thus improving game reliability. The spring in the cylinder's second chamber supports this function by holding the piston, and consequently the guide pin and darthead, in an optimal position to ensure smooth and controlled movement.Overall, these features bring about a significant improvement in the functionality and reliability of the e-dart throwing dart by optimizing the interaction between the dart and the e-dartboard, thus enabling a more precise and stable playing experience.

[0011] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a stepped section of the dart point adjoins the front end of the dart point in the longitudinal direction. This stepped section comprises at least a first step and a second step, the first step being arranged longitudinally between the front end of the dart point and the second step. The diameter of the first step adjacent to the front end of the dart point is larger than the diameter of the front end of the dart point and smaller than the diameter of the second step adjoining the first step. The first step and the second step can have a cylindrical or conical shape. A circumferential shoulder is provided between the first step and the second step, forming an edge projecting radially outwards beyond the first step.This circumferential edge preferably runs in a geometric plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the dart. As the dart tip penetrates a funnel-shaped recess in the electronic dartboard, this edge slides along the surface of the recess. The surface area of ​​the dart tip that contacts the surface of the recess is smaller than that of a conical dart tip, thus reducing sliding friction. When the dart tip has penetrated the recess to such an extent that its outer diameter at the edge matches the inner diameter of the recess, the dart becomes stuck.Under certain circumstances, it may slide a little further due to inertia, during which the funnel-shaped receptacle and / or the dart tip may deform elastically to a small extent without, however, causing damage. In addition to the first and second stages, the dart tip may have further stages, in particular a third and fourth stage, which extend longitudinally from the second stage, with the diameter of the third stage being larger than the diameter of the second stage and the diameter of the fourth stage being larger than the diameter of the third stage. Accordingly, a circumferential shoulder is provided between each pair of stages, forming a radially outwardly projecting edge.

[0012] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the dart tip is formed in one piece with the guide pin. This reduces the number of connection points and simplifies the manufacturing of the guide pin and dart tip unit. This one-piece construction eliminates the need for additional fasteners or adhesives required in a two-piece design. Besides reducing manufacturing complexity, this also minimizes the likelihood of material fatigue or failure at the connection points. Furthermore, this design improves the precision and balance of the dart, as the mass is more evenly distributed and no irregularities arise from connection points. This results in an improved trajectory and greater accuracy of the dart.If the dart tip is damaged, the unit consisting of the guide pin and dart tip must be replaced in the case of a one-piece design.

[0013] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the dart tip is detachably connected to the guide pin via a screw connection. This connection between the dart tip and the guide pin allows for quick and easy replacement of the dart tip in case of damage. The guide pin remains attached to the dart and does not need to be replaced. The screw connection ensures that the dart tip is firmly and securely fastened to the guide pin. At the same time, this connection allows the user to easily replace the dart tip as needed, whether due to wear, damage, or the desire to use a different tip with specific characteristics. This significantly increases the flexibility and adaptability of the dart, as different dart tips can be used depending on playing conditions or the player's personal preferences.Furthermore, the ability to easily remove and replace the dart tip contributes to the longevity of the dart, as only the dart tip, and not the entire dart, needs to be replaced when the tip is worn or damaged.

[0014] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the dart tip is made of plastic.

[0015] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the dart tip has a metal core with a plastic coating. Suitable metals include, for example, steel or aluminum. The metal core in the dart tip provides the necessary stability and strength to withstand the mechanical stresses upon impact with the electronic dartboard. At the same time, the metal core ensures precise weighting of the dart tip, which is crucial for the flight stability and accuracy of the dart. The plastic coating, on the other hand, serves several purposes. First, it reduces the risk of injury by covering the sharp edges of the metal core, thus enabling safer handling. Second, due to its elasticity, the plastic coating helps to minimize the risk of damaging the electronic dartboard.Thirdly, the plastic coating minimizes friction between the dart tip and the dartboard, extending the lifespan of both the tip and the electronic dartboard. Furthermore, the coating can be designed to provide better adhesion to the board, increasing the likelihood that the dart will stick after impact. This combination of metal core and plastic coating ensures that the dart tip is both robust and safe, while maintaining the necessary flight characteristics. The specific connection between the metal core and the plastic coating is achieved through a strong bond, ensuring that both components function as a single unit. This bond can be created using various methods such as overmolding or bonding to guarantee a durable and stable bond.

[0016] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the dart tip is made of steel. Steel as a material for the dart tip offers high strength and durability, which extends the lifespan of the dart and reduces the need for frequent replacements. The use of steel makes the dart tip more resistant to wear and damage that can result from repeated impacts with the dartboard or other hard surfaces. Since the dart has damping due to the spring and the sliding bearing of the piston, guide pin, and dart tip assembly, the risk of damaging the electronic dartboard is also minimized. The previously required use of plastic dart tips in electronic darts can therefore be eliminated when using darts according to the invention. Rounded metal dart tips are thus possible.

[0017] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the guide pin is made of plastic. Compared to other materials such as metal, plastic offers a significant weight reduction. This can improve the handling and throwing characteristics of the dart, as a lighter guide pin reduces the dart's inertia and thus enables more precise throws. Furthermore, plastic can exhibit greater flexibility, which increases the guide pin's fracture resistance and thus extends the dart's lifespan. Another advantage of using plastic is the ability to manufacture the guide pin more cost-effectively, which lowers the dart's production costs and makes it more economically attractive. Plastic can also be easily manufactured in various colors and shapes, offering a greater variety of design options and making the dart more visually appealing.Since plastic can have lower friction than metal, this could improve the sliding properties of the guide pin in the first cavity, thus optimizing the sliding motion of the piston and guide pin within the cylinder. This, in turn, can lead to smoother and more consistent movement, increasing the precision and consistency of the dart's performance. Furthermore, plastic can possess better damping properties, reducing the impact of the dart hitting the electronic dartboard and thus decreasing stress on the dart's internal components. This, in turn, can improve the dart's durability and reliability.

[0018] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the guide pin is made of a fiber-reinforced plastic. Fiber-reinforced plastic is characterized by high strength and stiffness, achieved by embedding fibers such as glass, carbon, or aramid fibers in a plastic matrix. This reinforcement increases the mechanical strength of the guide pin, enabling it to better withstand the forces exerted when the dart impacts the electronic dartboard. Furthermore, fiber-reinforced plastic is lighter than many metals, resulting in a reduction of the dart's overall weight. This lower weight can improve the dart's handling and throwing characteristics, allowing the player to execute more precise throws.Furthermore, fiber-reinforced plastic offers high corrosion resistance, which increases the guide pin's lifespan, especially in high-humidity environments or when exposed to perspiration. The use of fiber-reinforced plastic can also improve vibration damping, resulting in a smoother and more stable dart trajectory.

[0019] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the guide pin is made of metal. Steel or aluminum, for example, are suitable materials. Compared to other materials such as plastic, metal is more resistant to the mechanical stresses caused by repeated impacts and vibrations when the dart strikes the electronic dartboard. This increased strength and durability contribute to extending the overall lifespan of the dart, which is particularly important for use in electronic dart systems where precise and repeatable performance is required. Furthermore, metal offers a higher density than many other materials, which helps to increase the weight of the guide pin. A heavier guide pin can improve the stability of the dart during flight by increasing its moment of inertia and thus reducing the dart's tendency to spin or wobble uncontrollably.This results in a more precise trajectory and a higher hit rate. Another advantage of using metal is its low deformation under stress. Metallic surfaces are generally less susceptible to wear and corrosion, especially when made of stainless or coated metals. This ensures that the dart remains in optimal condition for a longer period. Finally, using metal can also offer aesthetic benefits. Metallic guide pins can be polished or coated to achieve an attractive appearance, making the dart not only functional but also visually appealing.

[0020] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the piston has a blind hole in which the guide pin is received and secured at its rear end. This specific design of the piston and the method of securing the guide pin offer several technical advantages and improvements. First, the presence of the blind hole in the piston allows for precise and stable reception of the guide pin. This contributes to the structural integrity and durability of the dart, as the guide pin is firmly anchored in the piston and is therefore less susceptible to loosening or displacement that might occur during use. Furthermore, securing the guide pin in the blind hole of the piston ensures precise alignment of the guide pin along the longitudinal axis of the cylinder.This is crucial for the accuracy and consistency of the dart's trajectory, as precise alignment ensures that the guide pin can slide smoothly within the cylinder's first cavity without jamming or binding. Furthermore, securing the guide pin within the piston's blind hole helps reduce vibrations and unwanted movement that could negatively affect the dart's flight path.

[0021] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the guide pin is attached to the piston via a screw connection. This screw connection provides a secure yet detachable connection between the guide pin and the piston, increasing the stability and precision of the dart. The screw connection allows the guide pin to be securely fastened to the piston, preventing unwanted movement or loosening during use. This results in smoother and more controlled movement of the guide pin within the cylinder, improving the accuracy and consistency of throws. Furthermore, the screw connection facilitates maintenance and component replacement. Should the guide pin become damaged or worn, it can simply be unscrewed and replaced with a new one without having to replace the entire piston or other parts of the dart.

[0022] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the guide pin is connected to the piston by gluing, soldering, shrinking or pressing.

[0023] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the guide pin is formed in one piece with the piston. This one-piece design of the guide pin and piston increases the mechanical stability and strength of the entire assembly. Since no separate connection or fastening between the guide pin and piston is required, the risk of mechanical weaknesses or breakage at the connection point is eliminated. Furthermore, the manufacturing of the dart is simplified because fewer individual parts are needed and the assembly processes are less complex. This can lead to cost reductions in production and increased manufacturing efficiency. The one-piece design also improves the precision of the guide pin's movement within the cylinder.

[0024] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the spring is a helical spring. A helical spring, also known as a coil spring, is characterized by its ability to efficiently absorb and store axial forces. In the described configuration of the dart, the helical spring is arranged in the second cylindrical cavity of the cylinder and is supported by it. The spring can be positioned at the rear end of the piston, at the front end of the piston, or somewhere in between. The piston, which is guided to be displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the cylinder, is also in contact with the helical spring. When the piston is displaced longitudinally, the helical spring is deflected from its initial position, thereby storing potential energy. This stored energy is released as soon as the external force displacing the piston decreases, causing the piston to return to its original position.This mechanism ensures a reliable and repeatable return force, which is crucial for the dart's function. The spring can be positioned within the cylinder in such a way that it is subjected to tension or compression when the piston moves longitudinally along the cylinder. The coil spring provides smooth and controlled piston movement, improving the dart's precision and consistency. Furthermore, due to its geometric shape and material properties, the coil spring is able to withstand high loads and maintain its shape and function over many cycles. This increases the dart's durability and reliability.

[0025] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the spring is a leaf spring.

[0026] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the spring is a pneumatic spring. This enables a more consistent and controlled return force, resulting in more precise control of the piston's movement. It ensures that the guide pin and dart tip always return to the same starting position. Furthermore, the pneumatic spring reduces mechanical wear because it has fewer moving parts and generates no metal-on-metal friction. This increases the dart's lifespan and reduces the need for maintenance and component replacement. Additionally, the pneumatic spring provides better damping of shocks and vibrations generated when the dart impacts the dartboard. This protects the dart's internal components from damage and contributes to the product's longevity.Furthermore, the pneumatic spring can be adjusted to different pressure levels to fine-tune the rebound force and meet the individual needs and preferences of the user. This adaptability makes it possible to optimize the dart for different playing styles and techniques.

[0027] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the spring is a hydraulic spring.

[0028] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the piston has a larger cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis than the guide pin. The larger cross-section of the piston, compared to the guide pin, provides improved stability and guidance of the piston within the second cylindrical cavity of the cylinder. This stability is crucial to ensure smooth and low-friction movement of the piston, which in turn increases the precision and reliability of the dart. The larger cross-section of the piston also offers a larger contact area with the spring located in the second cavity, thereby transmitting the spring force to the piston more efficiently. This results in a more uniform deflection of the spring when the piston moves longitudinally within the cylinder, optimizing the piston's restoring force and thus improving the dart's functionality.

[0029] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the piston has a larger cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis than the first cavity. The larger cross-section of the piston prevents it from penetrating the first cavity, thus ensuring a clear separation of the two cavities and their respective functions. The piston is therefore securely held in the second cavity.

[0030] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the guide pin and the piston are essentially cylindrical with a circular cross-section. The first cavity, the second cavity, the guide pin, and the piston are arranged coaxially with respect to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder. The cylindrical and circular design of the guide pin and piston enables smooth and low-friction movement within the cylinder. This results in more precise guidance and lower mechanical resistance, which extends the service life of the components and minimizes maintenance requirements. The coaxial arrangement of all relevant components along the longitudinal axis of the cylinder ensures optimal alignment and stability during movement. This arrangement helps to distribute forces evenly and prevents undesirable lateral loads that could impair function.Furthermore, the coaxial arrangement allows for a compact design of the dart, which is particularly advantageous in terms of handling and throwing characteristics. The spring, located in the second cavity and supporting the piston longitudinally along the cylinder, also benefits from this arrangement, as it is subjected to a uniform load and can thus exert a constant restoring force on the piston.

[0031] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the cylinder has a second through-opening at a second end opposite the first end, which is closed by a locking piece. The second through-opening at the second end of the cylinder allows access to the first and second cavities of the cylinder from the opposite side of the first end. This facilitates the assembly and maintenance of the dart, as it allows the user to insert and remove the piston, spring, and guide pin from the cylinder. The locking piece, which closes the second through-opening, ensures that the cavity remains securely closed during normal use of the dart, thus guaranteeing its functionality and structural integrity.The locking mechanism can be designed for easy removal and reattachment, for example, using a screw thread or a snap mechanism. This design increases the modularity of the dart, as individual components can be replaced as needed without having to replace the entire dart.

[0032] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the spring is arranged between the locking piece and the piston. The spring is thus held in a clearly defined position and is easily accessible.

[0033] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a shaft with guide wings is arranged at the second end of the cylinder or at the breech piece. The shaft serves as an extension of the cylinder and contributes to stabilizing the dart during flight. The guide wings, which are attached to this shaft and are also referred to as flights, play a crucial role in the aerodynamic control of the dart. They ensure that the dart maintains a stable trajectory and minimize the probability of deviations or turbulence that could be caused by air currents.

[0034] Further advantages and advantageous embodiments of the invention can be found in the following description, the drawing and the claims. drawing

[0035] The drawing shows exemplary embodiments of the invention. It shows: Figure 1: First embodiment of a throwing dart in perspective view; Figure 2: Throwing dart according to Figure 1 in longitudinal section, Figure 3 Cylinder with spring, piston, guide pin and dart tip of the throwing dart according to Figure 1 , wherein the piston, guide pin and dart tip are relative to the cylinder opposite the one in the Figure 1 and 2 The positions shown are shifted longitudinally, Figure 4 alternative design of a dart tip for the throwing dart according to Figure 1 Figure 5 shows another alternative design of a dart tip for the throwing dart according to Figure 1 Figure 6 shows a further alternative design of a dart tip for the throwing dart according to Figure 1 , where the dart tip is shown in longitudinal and cross-sectional sections, Figure 7 excerpt on Figure 6 Figure 8 Dart tip according to Figure 6In perspective view, Figure 9 shows a second embodiment of a throwing dart, wherein only the cylinder, the spring, the piston and the guide pin with dart tip are shown, Figure 10 shows the guide pin with dart tip of the throwing dart according to Figure 9 in side view, Figure 11 guide pin according to Figure 10 in perspective view, Figure 12 non-inventive dart tip, which is alternatively attached to the throwing dart according to Figure 1 can be arranged, Figure 13, guide pin not according to the invention, which can alternatively be attached to the dart according to Figure 9 can be arranged. Description of the exemplary implementations

[0036] In the Figures 1 to 8Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of a dart 1 with various dart tips 11, 11a, 11b, and 11c. The dart 1 comprises an elongated cylinder 2, which is designed as a hollow body. The cylinder 2 has a first through-opening 4 at a first end 5, which is also referred to as the front end. This through-opening 4 allows the entry and guidance of the guide pin 10 within the cylinder 2. The cylinder 2 extends longitudinally 3 and comprises two cylindrical cavities. The first cylindrical cavity 7 adjoins the first through-opening 4 and has a smaller cross-section than the second cylindrical cavity 8, which also extends longitudinally 3 and adjoins the first cavity 7.

[0037] Within the second cavity 8, a piston 9 is guided so as to be displaceable in the longitudinal direction 3 of the cylinder 2. This piston 9 is supported against the cylinder 2 by a spring 13 located in the second cavity 8. The spring 13 is designed as a helical spring. When the piston 9 is displaced in the longitudinal direction 3 of the cylinder 2, it is deflected, thereby generating a restoring force.

[0038] A guide pin 10 is inserted at its front end into the Figure 1 , 2 and 3The dart is equipped with a dart tip 11. The dart tip 11 has a rounded front end 12 facing away from the piston 9. The electronic dartboard is not shown in the drawing. The rear end of the guide pin 10, facing away from the dart tip, is attached to a front end of the piston 9. The guide pin 10, which is fixedly connected to the piston 9, is slidably guided together with the piston 9 in the cylinder 2. The guide pin 10 is movably received in the first cavity 7 and protrudes from the cylinder 2 with its front end facing away from the piston 9.

[0039] The piston 9 has a larger cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 3 than the guide pin 10 and the first cavity 7. The guide pin 10 and the piston 9 are essentially cylindrical with a circular cross-section and are arranged coaxially with respect to the longitudinal axis 3 of the cylinder 2. The first cavity 7, the second cavity 8, the guide pin 10, and the piston 9 are also arranged coaxially.

[0040] The cylinder 2 has a second through-opening 18 at a second end 6, also referred to as the rear end, which is closed by a breechblock 19. The spring 13 is arranged between the breechblock 19 and the piston 9. A shaft 20 with guide wings 21 is attached to the breechblock 19. These guide wings 21 stabilize the flight of the dart 1 and ensure precise alignment during the throw.

[0041] Figure 2Figure 1 shows the various connections and fastenings of the components. The piston 9 has a blind hole 17 in which the guide pin 10 is received and fastened at its rear end. The guide pin 10 is connected to the piston 9 via a screw connection or by gluing, soldering, shrinking, or pressing. Alternatively, the guide pin 10 can also be formed as a single piece with the piston 9.

[0042] The dart tip 11 has a metal core 14 encased in a plastic coating 15. Its leading end 12, as viewed in the direction of flight, is rounded. A conical section 22 extends longitudinally 3 from this leading end 12. The dart, with its rounded leading end 12 and conical section 22, penetrates a funnel-shaped recess in an electronic dartboard (not shown). A further section extends longitudinally 3 from the conical section 22, in which the cross-section of the dart tip 11 continuously increases. At its rear end, which faces away from the leading end 12 in the longitudinal direction 3, the dart tip 11 has an internal thread 26, which allows it to be screwed onto the leading end of the guide pin 10 of the dart 1. The guide pin 10 is equipped with an external thread at its leading end, which engages with the internal thread 26 of the dart tip 11.The screw connection allows the dart tip 11 to be replaced without damaging or affecting the rest of the dart 1.

[0043] Figure 3 shows the throwing dart according Figure 1 and 2 with the unit consisting of dart tip 11, guide pin 10 and piston 9 displaced relative to cylinder 2. This displacement results from a force acting on the dart tip 11 in the direction of the Figure 3 The arrow shown, for example, when hitting an electronic dartboard (not shown). For clarity, the shaft and guide wings are shown in Figure 3 not shown. Due to the force, the dart tip 11, the guide pin 10 and the piston 9 were displaced in the direction of the arrow along the longitudinal axis 3 relative to the cylinder 2 and the spring 13 was compressed.

[0044] Figure 4Figure 1 shows an alternative embodiment of the dart point 11a in a longitudinal section and a cross-sectional view. The external shape of the dart point 11a corresponds to the external shape of the dart point 11. The corresponding features are designated with the same reference numerals. The dart point 11a is made of plastic 25. It is rounded at its front end 12. A conical section 22 adjoins the front end 12. The dart penetrates a funnel-shaped recess of an electronic dartboard with the front rounded end 12 and the conical section 22. A further section adjoins the conical section 22 in the longitudinal direction 3, in which the cross-section of the dart point 11a continuously increases. Instead of a metal core, the dart point 11a is equipped with a cavity 24.At its rear end in the direction of flight, the dart tip 11a has an internal thread 26, with which it can be screwed onto the front end of the guide pin 10 of the throwing dart 1 in place of the dart tip 11.

[0045] Figure 5 Figure 1 shows another alternative embodiment of the dart tip 11b in a longitudinal section and a cross-sectional view. The external shape of the dart tip 11b corresponds to the external shape of the dart tips 11 and 11a. The corresponding features are designated with the same reference numerals. The dart tip 11b has neither a metal core nor a cavity extending in the conical section 22. In accordance with the dart tips 11 and 11a, it has a rounded front end 12, a conical section 22, and an internal thread 26. Furthermore, it is made of plastic.

[0046] The Figures 6 to 8Figure 1 shows another alternative embodiment of the dart tip 11c in a longitudinal section, a cross-section, and a perspective view. In accordance with dart tips 11, 11a, and 11b, dart tip 11c extends along a longitudinal axis 3 and has an internal thread 26 at its rear end. Like dart tips 11a and 11b, dart tip 11c is made of plastic 25. In contrast to dart tips 11, 11a, and 11b, dart tip 11c has a conical shape at its front end 12a. Furthermore, dart tip 11c does not have a conical section following its front end, but rather a stepped section 22a. This stepped section 22a comprises a first step 27, a second step 28, a third step 29, and a fourth step 30. The first step 27 is directly adjacent to the conical front end 22a. The second level 28 is located between the first level 27 and the third level 29.The fourth stage 30 follows the third stage 29. All four stages are arranged coaxially to the longitudinal axis 3 and have a cylindrical shape. Their surface is therefore parallel to the longitudinal axis 3. The diameter of the first stage 27 is equal to the diameter of the conical front end 22a on its side facing the first stage 27. The diameter of the second stage 28 is larger than the diameter of the first stage 27 and smaller than the diameter of the third stage 29, while the diameter of the fourth stage is larger than the diameter of the third stage 29. Thus, the diameter of the stepped section 22a does not increase continuously from the conical front end 12a, as is the case with the conical section 22 of the dart tips 11, 11a, and 11b, but rather in steps.At the transition from the first step 27 to the second step 28, there is a circumferential step 27a with a surface oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 3. This surface, together with the surface of the second step 28, forms a circumferential edge 27b that projects beyond the surface of the first step 27. The circumferential edge lies in a geometric plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 3. The same applies to a step 28a between the second step 28 and the third step 29, as well as a step 29a between the third step 29 and the fourth step 30.

[0047] In the Figures 9 to 11 A second embodiment of a throwing dart 31 is shown. The throwing dart 31 differs from the dart 1 in that the guide pin 40 is formed integrally with the dart tip 41. The guide pin 40 with the dart tip 41 is in the Figures 10 and 11Shown in isolation. In accordance with dart tips 11, 11a, and 11b, dart tip 41 has a rounded front end 42 and a conical section 52 adjoining it. The guide pin 40 has an external thread at its rear end 53. The cylinder 2, piston 9, spring 13, and locking piece 19 of the throwing dart 31 correspond to the respective components of the throwing dart 1, which is why matching reference numerals have been used. Like the throwing dart 1, the throwing dart 31 can be equipped with a shaft with guide wings. The guide pin 40 can be positioned in the piston 9 in place of the guide pin 10. This exchange is possible. To do so, the guide pin 10, which is connected to the piston 9 by a screw connection, is detached from the piston, and the guide pin 40 is inserted into the blind hole 17 of the piston 9 and screwed in place.

[0048] Figure 12Figure 1 shows a steel dart point 54 for steel darts in a longitudinal section and a cross-sectional view. Unlike dart points 11, 11a, 11b, and 41, the steel dart point is not rounded at the front end 55, but rather tapers to a point. It has an internal thread 56, allowing it to be screwed onto the guide pin 10 of the dart 1 instead of the dart points 11, 11a, 11b, or 11c according to the invention. In this way, the dart 1 can be used for either electronic darts or steel darts.

[0049] Figure 13Figure 1 shows a guide pin 57, which is formed in one piece with a steel dart point 58 for steel darts, in a longitudinal section and a cross-section. Just like the steel dart point 54, the front end 59 of the steel dart point 58 is tapered to a point. At its rear end 60, the guide pin 57 is equipped with an external thread, by which the guide pin 57 is screwed into the piston 2 in place of the guide pin 10 of the dart 1 or in place of the guide pin 40 of the dart 31. In this way, the dart 31 can be used for either electronic darts or steel darts.

[0050] All features of the invention can be essential to the invention, both individually and in any combination. Reference figures

[0051] 1 Dart 2 Cylinder 3 Longitudinal direction 4 First through-hole 5 First end of cylinder 6 Second end of cylinder 7 First cavity 8 Second cavity 9 Piston 10 Guide pin 11 Dart point 11a Dart point 11b Dart point 11c Dart point 12 Front end of dart point 12a Front end of dart point 13 Spring 14 Metal core of dart point 15 Plastic casing 16 Screw connection 17 Blind hole 18 Second through-hole 19 Closing piece 20 Shaft 21 Guide wing 22 Conical section of dart point 22a Stepped section of dart point 24 Cavity 25 Plastic 26 Internal thread 27 First step 27a First shoulder 28 Second step 28a Second shoulder 29 Third step 29a Third shoulder 30 Fourth stage 31 Throwing dart 40 Guide pin 41 Dart point 42 Front end of dart point 52 Conical section of dart point 53 Rear end of guide pin 54 Steel dart point 55 Front end of steel dart point 56 Internal thread 57 Guide pin with steel dart point 58 Steel dart point 59 Front end of steel dart point 60 Rear endthe steel dart tip

Claims

1. Throwing dart (1, 31) for electronic darts with an elongated cylinder (2) designed as a hollow body, - which has a first through-opening (4) at a first end (5), - which has a cylindrical first cavity (7) extending in the longitudinal direction (3) and adjoining the first through-opening (4), - which has a cylindrical second cavity (8) adjoining the first cavity (7) in the longitudinal direction (3) and also extending in the longitudinal direction (3), - wherein the first cavity (7) has a smaller cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (3) than the second cavity (8), with a piston (9) slidably guided in the second cavity (8) in the longitudinal direction (3) of the cylinder (2), with a guide pin (10, 40) which is arranged at a rear end (53) at a front end of the piston (9) and is fixedly connected to it, wherein the guide pin together with the piston (9) is in the cylinder (2) is movable, in such a way,that the guide pin (10, 40) is movably received in the first cavity (7) and protrudes from the cylinder (2) with its front end facing away from the piston (9), wherein the guide pin (10, 40) is equipped at its front end with a dart tip (11, 11a, 11b, 11c, 41), wherein the dart tip (11, 11a, 11b, 11c, 41) is rounded or frustoconical at its front end (12, 12a, 42) facing away from the piston (9), wherein the piston (9) is supported on the cylinder (2) by a spring (13) arranged in the second cavity (8), which is deflected when the piston (9) is displaced in the longitudinal direction (3) of the cylinder (2).

2. Throwing dart according to claim 1, characterized by the fact thata conical section (22, 52) of the dart tip (11, 11a, 11b, 41) is connected in the longitudinal direction (3) immediately to the front end (12, 42) of the dart tip (11, 11a, 11b, 41), with which the dart (1, 31) penetrates and remains stuck in a funnel-shaped recess of an e-dartboard, the conical section (22, 52) being tapered towards the front end (12, 42) of the dart tip (11, 11a, 11b, 41).

3. Throwing dart according to claim 1, characterized by the fact thata stepped section (22a) of the dart tip (11c) is immediately connected in the longitudinal direction (3) to the front end (12a) of the dart tip (11c), that the stepped section (22a) has at least a first step (27) and a second step (28), that the first step (27) is arranged in the longitudinal direction (3) between the front end (12a) of the dart tip (11c) and the second step (28), that the diameter of the first step (27) adjacent to the front end (12a) of the dart tip (11c) is greater than or equal to the diameter of the front end (12a) of the dart tip (11c) and is smaller than the diameter of the second step (28) adjoining the first step (27).

4. Throwing dart according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized by the fact that the dart tip (41) is formed in one piece with the guide pin (42).

5. Throwing dart according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized by the fact thatthe dart tip (11, 11a, 11b, 11c) is detachably connected to the guide pin (10) via a screw connection (26).

6. Throwing dart according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the dart tip (11, 11a, 11b, 11c, 41) is made of plastic.

7. Throwing dart according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the dart tip (11) has a metal core (14) with a plastic casing (15).

8. Throwing dart according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by the fact that the dart tip is made of steel.

9. Throwing dart according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the guide pin (10, 40) is made of plastic.

10. Throwing dart according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by the fact that the guide pin (10, 40) is made of metal.

11. Throwing dart according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact thatthe piston (9) has a blind hole (17) in which the guide pin (10, 40) is received and fixed with its rear end (53).

12. Throwing dart according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by the fact that the guide pin is formed in one piece with the piston.

13. Throwing dart according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the piston (9) has a larger cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (3) than the guide pin (10, 40).

14. Throwing dart according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the piston (9) has a larger cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (3) than the first cavity (7).

15. Throwing dart according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the cylinder (2) has a second through-opening (18) at a second end (6) facing away from the first end (5), which is closed by a closure piece (19).

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