Lighted Nock for Archery Arrow with Magnetic Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing archery arrows with magnetically actuated rear lights face issues such as unplanned shutdown due to deceleration forces and inefficient light direction, leading to reduced visibility and increased chances of missing the target, as well as accidental illumination from jostling or dropping.
Innovation Solution
A lighted nock system for archery arrows that uses a magnetic switch with a focused beam LED, a retaining wire with overhand knot for secure battery retention, and an O-ring for shock absorption, ensuring reliable illumination and directional light projection rearwardly, while minimizing side visibility and accidental activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a magnetically actuated rear light is used to illuminate the arrow path, then the hunter can see the arrow trajectory and impact location, but the light shuts off in unplanned manner due to strong deceleration forces upon target strike
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic switch mechanism that responds to acceleration forces. The switch remains closed during deceleration (maintaining light on after impact) but opens during acceleration (preventing accidental activation during shooting). This dynamic response to changing force conditions resolves the contradiction between reliable activation and unexpected shutdown.
2Illumination intensity
If light is emitted through a transparent nock, then the arrow can be illuminated, but a significant portion of light is directed sideways causing the quarry to start and resulting in a miss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by directing light preferentially in specific directions. The nock is designed with optical properties that concentrate light emission rearwardly while minimizing sideways emission. This localized light distribution resolves the contradiction between providing sufficient illumination and preventing harmful side visibility to the quarry.
3Strength
If the light assembly is made robust to withstand high G-forces, then the arrow can survive impact, but the lighted nock becomes heavier than desired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes composite materials that provide high strength-to-weight ratio. The nock assembly incorporates materials and structures that can withstand high G-forces and impact conditions without excessive weight gain. This composite approach resolves the contradiction between impact resistance and weight constraints.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides consistent and reliable rearward light projection, reducing accidental illumination and enhancing visibility during hunting, while withstanding high G-forces and maintaining light output even under impact conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a switch having normally open electrical contacts, the switch being closable upon momentary contact with a magnetic field
Implementation Method 2
circuitry interconnecting the battery, the switch, and the light source, for permitting illumination of the light source upon momentary sensing of the magnetic field
Implementation Method 3
an O-ring for shock absorption
Data Source
AI summary
An archery arrow carries a light transmitting nock plus a light assembly, which comprises a light source positioned so that the light source is visible through the nock, a switch having normally open electrical contacts, and closable upon momentary contact with a magnetic field, and circuitry interconnecting a battery, the switch, and the light source for permitting illumination of the light source when the magnetic field is sensed. By this invention, the light assembly may be free of a housing and occupies a first bore of the nock and a second bore of the arrow shaft rearward end. A unique system for retaining a battery and protecting against high G force, plus a focused beam LED are other optional, advantageous features.