Multi-Barrel Arrow Gun With Staggered Compressed-Gas Launch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies have not effectively utilized compressed gas to propel arrows, and there is a need for a compressed gas gun capable of launching multiple arrows sequentially using a common mass of upstream pressurized gas.
Innovation Solution
The arrow gun employs a system with multiple barrels connected to unique flow paths, allowing concurrent exposure to pressurized gas, which differentiates the launch pressure timing for each barrel, enabling sequential arrow launch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single barrel is used to launch arrows with compressed gas, then the structure is simple, but the productivity is low because only one arrow can be launched at a time
Solution Approach 1:
The single barrel is divided into multiple separate barrels (first barrel, second barrel, third barrel), each capable of launching arrows independently. This segmentation allows multiple arrows to be launched simultaneously or in rapid succession, significantly improving arrow launch rate while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
Each barrel is designed with universal functionality to launch arrows using compressed gas, and all barrels share common components such as the compressed gas source and valve system. This multi-functionality approach enables the system to launch multiple arrows while avoiding redundant components, balancing productivity improvement with complexity control
2Productivity
If multiple barrels are exposed to pressurized gas simultaneously, then arrows can be launched in parallel, but the launch pressure timing becomes synchronized causing arrow interference
Solution Approach 1:
Each barrel is assigned a unique flow path with different characteristics (different lengths, diameters, or resistance values) so that while all barrels are exposed to the same pressurized gas source, they experience different pressure buildup rates and timing. This local differentiation ensures staggered launch timing, preventing arrow interference while maintaining parallel launch capability
Solution Approach 2:
The flow paths are designed with varying parameters such as length, cross-sectional area, or flow resistance to create different pressure-time profiles for each barrel. By changing these flow path parameters, the system achieves controlled timing differences in arrow launch, eliminating interference while preserving the benefit of multiple parallel launches
3Device complexity
If a common flow path is used for all barrels, then the device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision of flow path timing cannot be controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The common flow path is segmented into separate, dedicated flow paths for each barrel, allowing independent optimization of timing characteristics for each barrel while sharing common components. This segmentation provides precise control over flow path timing without requiring complete redesign of the entire system, balancing manufacturing precision with overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The flow paths are pre-designed with specific characteristics (length, diameter, curvature) that are manufactured to precise tolerances during the design phase. This preliminary configuration of flow path parameters ensures controlled timing differences in pressure delivery to each barrel, achieving manufacturing precision without requiring complex active control mechanisms during operation
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 ensures staggered or simultaneous launch of arrows, minimizing arrow interference and optimizing target impact patterns.
Implementation Method 1
the compressed gas must expand and travel through the barrel to contact the arrow
Implementation Method 2
a gradually increasing pressure front is exerted upon the arrow
Implementation Method 3
releasing, though a valve, a mass of compressed gas from a high pressure reservoir
Implementation Method 4
the compressed gas must expand and travel through the barrel to contact the arrow, thus a gradually increasing pressure front is exerted upon the arrow
Implementation Method 5
using compressed gas to propel an arrow
Data Source
AI summary
An arrow gun is provided having a plurality of barrels, wherein a flow path for pressurized gas includes a unique portion to at least two of the barrels. Upon a mass of regulated pressure gas passes from an upstream firing valve in the flow path, the respective flow paths are configured such that the mass of regulated pressure gas creates a launching pressure at different times between the two barrels, thereby imparting a sequential launch of the respective arrows.