Disk Launcher Timing Post Rotation Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing disk launchers, such as slingshots, are not suitable for launching disks due to the inability to maintain alignment and other technical limitations.
Innovation Solution
A disk launcher system comprising a platform with a biasing member, a catch member, and a timing post that ensures the disk moves to the side of the timing post upon release, resulting in rotation and efficient launch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional slingshot is used to launch a disk, then the launching mechanism is simple, but the disk cannot maintain alignment and proper rotation during launch
Solution Approach 1:
The launcher is divided into distinct functional segments: a platform for disk positioning, a biasing member for force application, a catch member for selective engagement, and a timing post for rotation control. Each segment performs a specific function that collectively solves the alignment and rotation problem while keeping individual components relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The timing post acts as an intermediary element between the biasing member and the disk. It forces the disk to move to the side of the post after release, creating the necessary rotation. This intermediary component enables rotation control without requiring complex mechanical linkages or active control systems.
2Reliability
If a slingshot design is used, then the device is easy to operate, but there is no mechanism to force disk rotation after release
Solution Approach 1:
The timing post automatically forces the disk to move to its side and initiate rotation as part of the natural launch sequence. The disk itself performs the rotation action through its interaction with the timing post, eliminating the need for the user to manually control rotation or add complex control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The catch member is positioned and configured in advance to selectively engage the disk and release it at the optimal moment. This preliminary positioning ensures that when the disk is released, it immediately interacts with the timing post to generate rotation, without requiring real-time user adjustment during the launch.
3Reliability
If no timing post is used, then the launcher structure is simpler, but the disk does not achieve proper rotation and side movement
Solution Approach 1:
The timing post is positioned at a specific location on the platform to create the necessary asymmetric force on the disk. This localized intervention at a critical point in the launch sequence is sufficient to generate both side movement and rotation, without requiring multiple posts or distributed control elements throughout the 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 system effectively launches disks by maintaining alignment and applying a biasing force, enhancing the distance and rotation of the disk, addressing the limitations of traditional slingshots.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member attached to the platform adapted to apply a biasing force to a disk positioned on the platform to launch the disk from the platform
Data Source
AI summary
A disk launcher system for effectively launching a disk. The disk launcher system generally includes a platform having an upper surface, a biasing member attached to the platform adapted to apply a biasing force to a disk positioned on the platform to launch the disk from the platform, a catch member movably positioned with respect to the platform adapted to selectively engage the disk, and a timing post extending upwardly from the upper surface of the platform that forces the disk to move to a side of the timing post after being released by the catch member resulting in rotation of the disk. A trigger may be connected to the catch member to allow for selective movement of the catch member by a user. A cover may also selectively cover a portion of the platform to help protect the user and guide the disk.