Clay Target Launcher Centrifugal Arm and Escapement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clay pigeon launching devices have limitations in range, speed, and safety, with clay pigeons exhibiting undesirable flight characteristics and fragile nature, and the launching process being time-consuming and hazardous for operators.
Innovation Solution
A launching device with a continuously rotatable throwing arm and an escapement mechanism that allows for efficient and consistent launching of clay targets, incorporating a resilient loading receptacle and centrifugal force to manage clay target trajectory and reduce breakage, along with safety features to minimize operator risk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If conventional spring-loaded traps are used to launch clay targets, then the launching mechanism is simple, but the flight range is limited and the launching speed is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional spring-loaded mechanical system with a centrifugal launching system. The throwing arm rotates continuously to generate centrifugal force, which launches the clay target. This substitution enables longer flight ranges and higher launching speeds while maintaining operational simplicity through automatic continuous rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic motion by implementing continuous rotation of the throwing arm. The arm rotates at controlled speeds to generate varying centrifugal forces, enabling adjustable launching velocities and extended flight ranges. The dynamic system includes variable speed control and automatic positioning mechanisms.
2Productivity
If clay targets are loaded manually into the throwing arm, then the device structure is simple, but the launching process is time-consuming and productivity is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a magazine loading system that pre-positions multiple clay targets in ready-to-launch positions. The automatic loading mechanism feeds targets into the throwing arm sequentially, eliminating manual intervention and enabling continuous high-speed launching without interruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuous launching operation through an automatically rotating throwing arm that continuously feeds clay targets from the magazine. The system maintains uninterrupted operation with automatic target presentation, eliminating idle time between launches and maximizing productivity.
3Length of moving object
If clay targets are launched with high velocity, then the flight range increases, but the clay targets break more frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a resilient loading receptacle that cushions clay targets during the loading and launch process. The receptacle absorbs impact forces and reduces stress on the fragile clay targets, preventing breakage while maintaining high launching velocities and extending flight ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes launching parameters by controlling the rotation speed of the throwing arm and adjusting the release timing. By precisely controlling the centrifugal force and launch angle, the system achieves maximum flight range while minimizing excessive forces that could cause target breakage.
4Productivity
If the throwing arm rotates continuously, then the launching efficiency increases, but operator safety risks increase due to potential hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces safety interlocking mechanisms and protective barriers as intermediaries between the rotating throwing arm and the operator. The system includes automatic safety features that detect abnormal conditions and interrupt operation, while physical barriers prevent direct contact with moving parts, maintaining high launching efficiency without compromising operator safety.
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 device achieves longer flight ranges, consistent trajectories, reduced clay target breakage, and enhanced operator safety by utilizing a resilient loading receptacle and centrifugal force to manage clay target launch, while ensuring predictable and efficient launching.
Implementation Method 1
incorporating a resilient loading receptacle and centrifugal force to manage clay target trajectory and reduce breakage
Implementation Method 2
incorporating a resilient loading receptacle and centrifugal force to manage clay target trajectory and reduce breakage
Data Source
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AI summary
A launching device for a clay target including a throwing arm supported to be rotatable continuously about an axis, and including means to load a clay target substantially at said axis, wherein the throwing arm includes an escapement mechanism operable between a first position in which a clay target is prevented from being launched from the throwing arm and a second position in which a clay target is permitted to be launched from the throwing arm. Loading means may be provided including a resilient loading receptacle located substantially at the axis to provide cushioning to a clay target as it is loaded. Further, the throwing arm may include a base portion for bearing a clay target and a top cover spaced from the base portion and adapted to disrupt the airflow over the clay target.