Hand-Powered Projectile Assembly with Elastic Pouch Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional slingshots lack the capability to store projectiles, limiting their functionality and usability.

Innovation Solution

A hand-powered projectile assembly comprising an elastic projectile pouch, a hollow base ring, and a cap, which allows for the storage and launching of projectiles, with features like serrations for cutting and grooves for secure grip, and optional accessories such as a compass or laser for enhanced functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If conventional slingshots are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the capacity to store projectiles is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprojectile storage capacityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements nesting by placing the elastic pouch containing projectiles inside a hollow cylindrical body, which is then stored within a compact cap assembly. This nested configuration enables multiple projectiles to be stored in a pocket-sized device without significantly increasing external dimensions or structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The hollow cylindrical body serves multiple functions: it acts as a container for the elastic pouch, provides structural support, and includes features like serrations for cutting and grooves for grip. The cap assembly also integrates multiple functions including sealing, storage, and potential accessory mounting, thereby increasing projectile storage capacity without proportionally increasing device complexity.

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

2Volume of moving object

If the slingshot is made compact for pocket carry, then portability is improved, but the power and range for hunting may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice volume for portabilityVSAvoidprojectile launching force
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic elements including an elastic pouch that can be stretched to generate launching force, and a collapsible or telescoping structure that allows the device to expand during use and compress for storage. This dynamic design enables sufficient launching force to be generated within a compact form factor suitable for pocket carry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention utilizes the third dimension by creating a cylindrical hollow body that expands radially when activated, rather than requiring a larger linear dimension. The elastic pouch stretches in multiple directions simultaneously, generating force in three dimensions while maintaining a compact overall device volume for portability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple projectiles are stored in the pouch, then the utility for hunting small birds is improved, but the pouch complexity and sealing requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehunting utilityVSAvoidpouch and sealing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a flexible elastic pouch made of stretchable material that can accommodate multiple projectiles of varying sizes and shapes. The flexibility of the pouch allows it to conform to different projectile configurations while maintaining structural integrity, and the elastic properties enable easy opening and closing without complex sealing mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using complex sealing mechanisms to prevent projectiles from falling out, the invention inverts the approach by using the elastic tension of the stretched pouch itself as the retention mechanism. The pouch is stretched during loading and firing, and the elastic recovery force naturally keeps projectiles contained, eliminating the need for additional sealing components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

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

Enables convenient storage and launching of projectiles, providing a versatile tool for hunting, self-defense, and recreational use, while being compact enough to carry in a pocket.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic projectile pouch; The elastic projectile pouch is comprised of latex/rubber configured for storing and launching at least one projectile

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8925535B2Hand-powered projectile assembly
Publication Date: 2015.01.06 POCKET SHOT LLC
  • US8925535B2 patent drawing
  • US8925535B2 patent drawing
  • US8925535B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A hand-powered projectile assembly is provided for launching projectiles. The hand-powered projectile assembly includes an elastic projectile pouch, a hollow base ring and a hollow locking ring. The elastic projectile pouch having an open end is attached to the hollow base ring. The hollow base ring is attached to the locking ring. The hollow locking ring further maintains a tight seal with the elastic projectile pouch. The hand-powered projectile assembly further includes a cap to maintain the position of the projectiles inside the elastic projectile pouch. The cap maintains a watertight connection with the hollow base ring. The projectile exits through the open end of the elastic projectile pouch and the hollow base ring.