Handheld Clay Thrower Linkage System for Controlled Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current clay target throwers lack improvements in safety, consistency, and efficiency, which are essential for enhanced shooting sports performance.
Innovation Solution
A handheld clay thrower assembly with a frame, a throwing arm, and mechanisms including a cocking mechanism and a firing mechanism, utilizing a linkage system and spring tension to move the throwing arm from a rest to a cocked position and then release the clay target for consistent and controlled throwing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a traditional clay target thrower is used, then the basic function of throwing clay targets is achieved, but safety is compromised due to lack of controlled release mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The throwing arm is cocked to a predetermined position before the clay target is released, with the release mechanism pre-positioned to ensure safe and controlled discharge. The spring mechanism is pre-tensioned to the correct amount, eliminating the need for manual force application during the actual throwing moment.
Solution Approach 2:
A release mechanism acts as an intermediary between the operator and the throwing arm, providing controlled release of the clay target. This intermediary component ensures that the clay is released only when intended, preventing accidental discharge while maintaining mechanical simplicity.
2Reliability
If manual throwing methods are used, then device complexity is minimized, but consistency of clay target throwing is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is pre-tensioned to a specific amount that ensures consistent throwing force for each clay target. The throwing arm is cocked to a predetermined position that guarantees uniform release angle and trajectory, eliminating variability introduced by manual throwing techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring tension is adjusted to optimal parameters that provide consistent throwing force. The mechanical linkage dimensions and throwing arm geometry are designed with precise parameters to ensure repeatable release characteristics and uniform clay target trajectory with each discharge.
3Productivity
If inefficient throwing mechanisms are used, then device complexity is reduced, but throwing efficiency and productivity are low
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism stores energy continuously and releases it efficiently with each throw, allowing rapid successive discharges without requiring re-cocking by the operator. The mechanical design enables the throwing arm to return to the cocked position automatically after each release, maintaining continuous productive action.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical force application is replaced with a spring-based energy storage and release system. This substitution eliminates the need for the operator to manually force the throwing arm each time, significantly increasing throwing speed and efficiency while reducing operational complexity.
4Reliability
If mechanical advantage is increased for controlled throwing, then safety and consistency improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage system is divided into distinct segments (throwing arm, release mechanism, spring mechanism) that can be independently analyzed and optimized. Each segment performs a specific function with simple geometry, and their combination provides the necessary mechanical advantage without requiring a complex integrated system.
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 solution provides a safer, more consistent, and efficient method for throwing clay targets, allowing users to aim and fire with improved mechanical advantage and reduced risk of accidental discharge, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a linkage system and spring tension to move the throwing arm from a rest to a cocked position
Implementation Method 2
allowing users to aim and fire with improved mechanical advantage
Data Source
AI summary
A handheld clay thrower assembly, components thereof, and associated methods. The handheld clay thrower assembly includes a frame, a thrower, a cocking mechanism, and a firing mechanism. In some embodiments, the handheld clay thrower includes a shoulder rest and a pistol grip permitting the clay thrower to be shouldered, aimed, and fired like a firearm. A target to be thrown is inserted in the thrower assembly through an inlet opening and fired out of an exit opening.