Crossbow Trigger Box Sliding Mechanism for Dynamic Force Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projectile launchers face design constraints due to heightened dynamic forces during operation, limiting the achievable projectile speed and force without adversely affecting accuracy or dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A crossbow design featuring a frame with parallel top and bottom plates, flexible limbs, and a trigger box that moves the draw string between released and drawn positions, reducing dynamic forces through a sliding mechanism and cocking mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If the degree of rotation of the cam is increased to maximize potential energy storage in the limbs, then the projectile speed and force are improved, but the dynamic forces experienced by various components during operation are heightened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic trigger box mechanism that slides along the rail during the firing sequence. The trigger box transitions from a locked position (holding the draw string) to a released position, allowing the draw string to propel the projectile. This dynamic movement distributes and manages the dynamic forces generated during operation, reducing peak stress on individual components while maintaining high projectile force output.
2Speed
If the degree of rotation of the cam is increased to maximize potential energy storage in the limbs, then the projectile speed is improved, but the accuracy characteristics of the projectile launcher are adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding trigger box mechanism provides a controlled, repeatable release sequence that maintains accuracy. The trigger box slides along a precisely defined rail path, ensuring consistent positioning and release timing. This dynamic yet constrained movement allows high-speed projectile delivery while maintaining shot-to-shot consistency and accuracy characteristics.
3Speed
If the degree of rotation of the cam is increased to maximize potential energy storage in the limbs, then the projectile speed is improved, but the dimensions of the projectile launcher are adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The compact sliding trigger box design allows for efficient space utilization. By using a sliding mechanism rather than a rotating cam with large diameter, the patent achieves high projectile speeds within a more compact overall launcher dimension. The linear sliding path of the trigger box requires less radial space compared to a large-radius cam rotation, thereby maintaining smaller launcher dimensions while preserving high projectile speed capability.
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 design allows for increased projectile speed and force while maintaining accuracy and reducing dynamic forces, enhancing overall performance.
Implementation Method 1
a draw string configured to move from a released position to a drawn position... to cause limbs to flex so that energy is stored in the limbs until the draw string is released to launch the projectile
Implementation Method 2
a trigger box slidably coupled with the first plate and the second plate... reducing dynamic forces through a sliding mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A crossbow includes a first plate including a slot, a second plate including a slot, the second plate coupled to the first plate and extending substantially parallel to the first plate, the second plate spaced apart from the first plate, an upper flexible limb coupled with the first plate, a lower flexible limb coupled with the second plate, a draw string operatively engaged with the upper flexible limb and the lower flexible limb, the draw string configured to move from a released position to a drawn position, and a trigger box slidably coupled with the first plate the second plate and engaged with the slot of the first plate and the slot of the second plate, the trigger box configured to selectively engage with the draw string to move the draw string between the released position the drawn position.