Foot-Powered Projectile Launcher Using Elastic Cable
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projectile launching systems are difficult for younger users to operate due to the requirement of hand-strength and body weight, limiting their ability to efficiently launch projectiles.
Innovation Solution
A dual-platform apparatus connected by an elastic strap, designed to be placed under the user's feet, which utilizes the user's weight and applied force to stretch and store kinetic energy in the elastic strap, propelling a projectile when the force is released.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If traditional hand-powered projectile launching systems are used, then the launching mechanism is simple, but younger users cannot generate sufficient force to launch projectiles effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from hand-powered launching to foot-powered launching, utilizing the user's body weight and leg strength instead of arm strength. This dimensional change in the operating interface allows younger users to generate sufficient launching force through their feet, which can support greater force output than their hands.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes the user's body weight as a counterweight mechanism. By positioning the platforms under the feet and using the elastic strap to connect them, the system leverages the user's weight to pre-tension the elastic element, storing potential energy that is then released to launch the projectile.
2Productivity
If the elastic strap is stretched to store kinetic energy for projectile launch, then launching efficiency is improved, but the force applied to the user's foot may cause discomfort or injury
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses flexible platforms with rounded corners that can be positioned under the user's foot. These flexible elements distribute the applied force across a larger surface area of the foot, reducing pressure points and preventing discomfort or injury while still allowing sufficient force to stretch the elastic strap.
Solution Approach 2:
The platforms are designed with specific local characteristics including rounded corners and flexible materials at the contact points with the foot. This local quality modification ensures that high-force areas are distributed appropriately, protecting the user while maintaining launching efficiency.
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 younger users to efficiently launch projectiles by distributing force effectively and utilizing stored kinetic energy in the elastic strap, allowing for comfortable and effective operation.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic cable 130 as shown in FIGS. 16-17. The elastic cable 130 has a first length at rest and is configured to be stretched to a second length when sufficient force is applied
Implementation Method 2
when the force is removed a projectile coupled to the cable can be propelled in generally the opposite direction by the stored kinetic energy in the elastic cable
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems and methods are described for launching a projectile. Preferred devices comprise two separate platforms that are connected by an elastic cable. Each of the platforms can be secured to one foot or shoe of a user by a strap or other fastener. Once secured, a force can be applied to a projectile that is connected to the elastic cable to thereby stretch the cable in a first direction. Once the force is removed, at least some of the elastic force of the cable can be transferred to the projectile causing the projectile to be propelled in a direction opposite to the first direction.