Rotatable Dart Carrier for Rapid Projectile Launching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projectile launch systems, such as those using compressed air, often require manual reloading and alignment of launch tubes, which can be time-consuming and inefficient, especially when launching multiple projectiles.
Innovation Solution
The development of a toy projectile launch apparatus featuring a rotatable dart carrier with an energy creation system and a priming handle that allows for quick rotation of the carrier, enabling multiple projectiles to be brought into a launch position without the need for constant reloading, by using a gear train and cam mechanism to align barrels with a high-pressure air conduit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual reloading and alignment of launch tubes is used, then the launcher can fire projectiles, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing a rotatable carrier that can dynamically reposition multiple barrels into alignment with the energy source. Instead of manually reloading each tube, the carrier rotates to bring the next loaded barrel into position, enabling continuous operation without manual intervention for reloading and alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-loading multiple projectiles onto the rotatable carrier before operation begins. The carrier is prepared in advance with multiple barrels containing projectiles, so that during operation, the system can simply rotate to access pre-loaded barrels rather than requiring manual reloading of each tube individually.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple launch tubes are used to increase projectile capacity, then more projectiles can be launched, but the complexity of aligning and managing multiple tubes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by combining multiple barrels onto a single rotatable carrier assembly. Instead of managing separate launch tubes independently, all barrels are integrated into one unified carrier that rotates as a single unit, simplifying the management and alignment of multiple projectiles while maintaining high capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable carrier serves multiple functions: it holds multiple projectiles, rotates to present them sequentially, and provides a unified interface for energy delivery. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate alignment mechanisms for each tube, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to launch multiple projectiles.
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
This design allows for rapid and efficient launching of multiple projectiles by rotating the barrel carrier, reducing the time needed to reload and align new projectiles, enhancing operational efficiency and entertainment value.
Implementation Method 1
using a gear train and cam mechanism to align barrels with a high-pressure air conduit
Implementation Method 2
an energy creation system... enabling multiple projectiles to be brought into a launch position
Data Source
AI summary
A projectile launch apparatus for discharging a NERF™ brand dart, or toy launchers each having a rotatable dart carrier in either a gun-like or rifle-like configuration. Each of the apparatus includes an energy creation system embodying a cylinder housing a piston and a launch spring, a handle for priming the apparatus, and components for causing the dart carrier to rotate about an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the launch apparatus.