Electric Clay Target Thrower Battery Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electric clay target throwers face issues with power supply due to the use of lead acid batteries, which have low energy density, are heavy, and require separate transportation, leading to intermittent electrical connections and corrosion problems.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a programmable electronic controller and a lithium battery with high energy density, allowing for remote operation and programming via a smartphone, and providing secure and protected electrical connections, enabling efficient and extended operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If lead acid batteries are used for power supply, then the thrower can be powered portably, but the battery is large, heavy, and has low energy density

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy densityVSAvoidbattery weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the fundamental parameter of battery chemistry from lead acid to lithium ion, which has inherently higher energy density and lower weight per unit energy stored. This parameter change directly resolves the contradiction by providing more energy in less weight.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical/jumper cable connection system with an integrated electrical connection system where the battery is permanently mounted within the thrower housing, eliminating the need for external cables and connectors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If lead acid batteries are used with jumper style cables, then the battery can be temporarily connected, but the connection has high resistance and intermittent electrical issues

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoidelectrical resistance and corrosion
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the battery and thrower into a single integrated unit with permanent internal mounting. The battery is secured within the housing and directly connected to the motor and controller, eliminating external jumper cables and their associated connection problems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a protected internal connection system as an intermediary between the battery and electrical components. This integrated connection pathway is shielded from environmental factors that cause corrosion and resistance in external cable connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If a single battery is used, then the thrower is simple to operate, but the thrower cannot be used again until the battery is recharged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation simplicityVSAvoidoperation duration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the energy capacity parameter by using high-capacity lithium ion batteries with extended runtime, allowing the thrower to operate for hours on a single charge rather than depleting quickly like lead acid batteries.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a dual power source capability where the thrower can operate on battery power for portability or connect to AC power for extended stationary use, providing multiple operational modes to extend duration of action.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Reliability

If the battery is not integrated into the thrower, then the battery can be transported separately, but the connection components are exposed to corrosion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection durabilityVSAvoidintegration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the battery into the thrower housing as an integrated component. The battery is permanently mounted within the housing and connected through internal wiring, eliminating exposed external connection points that are susceptible to corrosion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

This solution provides a more efficient, portable, and reliable electric clay target thrower with improved launch characteristics and extended operation time, reducing the need for frequent battery recharging and minimizing corrosion issues.

Implementation Method 1

an electric motor coupled to the clay target thrower and operable to at least assist in propelling the clay target

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a battery coupled to the clay target thrower and providing power to at least one of the electric motor and the programable electronic controller

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical energy storage: Battery (electricity)

Data Source

PatentUS11428510B2Electric clay target thrower and related methods
Publication Date: 2022.08.30 FERUS OUTDOORS LLC
  • US11428510B2 patent drawing
  • US11428510B2 patent drawing
  • US11428510B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for launching at least one clay target, the device comprising a clay target thrower, an electric motor, a programable electronic controller, and a battery. The electric motor is coupled to the clay target thrower and is operable to at least assist in propelling the clay target. The programable electronic controller is coupled to the clay target thrower and controls functions of the clay target thrower. The battery is coupled to the clay target thrower and provides power to at least one of the electric motor and the programable electronic controller.