Spring-Based Golf Ball Launcher Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional golf ball launching methods require high skill and physical strength, and existing alternatives using pre-compressed gases or explosives are not widely accepted due to practical limitations and noise issues.
Innovation Solution
A spring-based apparatus similar to a crossbow, which can be manually or machine-recharged, uses a striking driver to propel golf balls via a guiding mechanism, allowing for adjustable distance, spin, and angle control without the need for extensive skill or strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional golf clubs are used to launch golf balls, then the ball can be propelled forward, but high skill and physical strength are required which reduces accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional golf club mechanical system with a spring-based launching mechanism. The spring mechanism automatically propels the golf ball when released, eliminating the need for complex swinging techniques and physical strength requirements while providing consistent and reliable ball launching.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism is designed to be self-actuating - once the spring is compressed and released, it automatically propels the golf ball forward without requiring additional manual intervention or skillful operation from the user.
2Force
If pre-compressed gases or explosives are used to launch golf balls, then the ball can be propelled forward with force, but the apparatus becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses simple, inexpensive spring components that can be easily replaced if needed. The spring mechanism avoids complex gas storage systems, pressure regulators, or explosive chambers, providing sufficient force through a simple mechanical design that is both affordable and easy to maintain.
3Force
If rifles with blank charges are used to launch golf balls, then the ball can be propelled forward with high force, but the noise and disturbance to other golfers becomes unacceptable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potentially harmful effects of loud noises and disturbances into a beneficial quiet operation. By using a spring mechanism instead of explosives or compressed gas, the system achieves sufficient ball propulsion force while eliminating noise pollution and disturbance to other golfers on the course.
4Speed
If pre-compressed gas systems are used to launch golf balls, then the ball can be propelled forward, but the system requires carrying large amounts of compressed gas that may run out during the game
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the golf ball launching function from complex gas storage and delivery systems, isolating only the essential spring propulsion mechanism. This eliminates the need to carry large quantities of compressed gas while maintaining effective ball launching capability through a compact, lightweight spring 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
Enables golfers to achieve better control over distance, angle, and spin with reduced physical effort, and can be used with various types of balls, including golf, tennis, and baseballs, offering a more accessible and versatile launching solution.
Implementation Method 1
The present disclosure provides an apparatus, system, and method with several embodiments that overcome the limitations of the prior art. The present disclosure accomplishes this by providing a system of launching a golf ball or other objects with a spring that can be manually (or by machine) constantly recharged for additional golf shots.
Implementation Method 2
a spring-based apparatus similar to a crossbow, which can be manually or machine-recharged, uses a striking driver to propel golf balls
Data Source
AI summary
A portable apparatus propels a projectile such as a golf ball, without the use of any external source of power. A striking driver is retracted, to a non-equilibrium position, by application of force, and is held in the non-equilibrium position. When the striking driver is released, it travels along a guided path and forcibly contacts the projectile, which is held in a loading port. Differential friction devices may be used on the projectile and/or the striking driver, to impart spin to the projectile. A rotary trigger alternately blocks and unblocks the striking driver, enabling control of the release of the striking driver. The apparatus may include various safety devices which prevent accidental release of the striking driver.