Target Launcher Inversion Reduces Mechanical Stress
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automated and manual target launching systems for clay target shooting sports face issues such as target breakage, mechanical complexity, limited compatibility with different target manufacturers, increased maintenance, and vulnerability to lightning strikes, leading to reduced shooter experience and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A device with a horizontal linear loader and oscillation motor that automatically loads and launches targets by bringing them to the throwing motor, reducing mechanical stress and complexity, allowing use of various target manufacturers, and featuring a decentralized design with sealed electrical components and lightweight aluminum construction to minimize vibration and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional automated loading systems are used, then loading speed is improved, but mechanical complexity increases and target breakage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of bringing the motor to the target as in conventional systems, this invention brings the target to the motor. The loading arm carries the target to the throwing motor, reversing the conventional approach and simplifying the mechanical system while maintaining automated loading speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a loading arm for target acquisition, a cam assembly for controlled movement, and a beak assembly for target presentation to the motor. This segmentation reduces overall mechanical complexity while maintaining automated operation.
2Extent of automation
If conventional loading mechanisms are used, then automation is achieved, but target integrity deteriorates due to mechanical stress
Solution Approach 1:
By reversing the loading approach to bring the target to the motor rather than the motor to the target, mechanical stress on the target is significantly reduced, maintaining target integrity while preserving automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam assembly is designed to provide controlled, gradual movement of the loading arm, cushioning the target against sudden mechanical shocks during the loading process, thereby preserving target integrity throughout automated operation.
3Productivity
If complex automated systems are used, then loading efficiency is improved, but maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular components (loading arm, cam assembly, beak assembly, throwing motor) that can be independently maintained and repaired, reducing overall maintenance complexity while maintaining loading efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading mechanism is designed with simple, self-explanatory mechanical components that can be easily maintained by operators with basic mechanical knowledge, reducing the need for specialized maintenance services.
4Ease of operation
If centralized electrical systems are used, then control is improved, but vulnerability to lightning strikes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical system is decentralized into separate, sealed control units distributed throughout the mechanism, reducing the risk of catastrophic failure from lightning strikes while maintaining effective control of the loading and throwing operations.
5Power
If vibration-prone mechanical systems are used, then power transmission is improved, but target accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By bringing the target to the motor rather than the motor to the target, the system minimizes vibration transmission to the target during the loading and throwing process, improving target accuracy while maintaining effective power transmission.
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 solution reduces target breakage, simplifies the loading process, allows use of any manufactured targets, decreases maintenance needs, and provides a more reliable and efficient shooting experience with reduced costs and increased accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
a cam assembly coupled to a corresponding rotating arm
Implementation Method 2
the throwing motor spins the lifted target held on the beak assembly
Implementation Method 3
an oscillation motor coupled to a throwing motor, the throwing motor being connected to a beak assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A device for launching a target having an arm motor a gear motor shaft coupled to the arm motor configured to rotate right and left rotating arms, and right and left target loading arms each having (1) a cam assembly coupled to a corresponding rotating arm and (2) and arm extension. The device includes a horizontal linear loader configured to hold a plurality of targets and a backstop, where one of the plurality of targets sits against the backstop, where the right and left loading arms via the corresponding arm extensions lift a target up from the backstop. The device includes an oscillation motor coupled to a throwing motor, the throwing motor being connected to a beak assembly configured to hold the lifted target, the oscillation motor turns the throwing motor, and the turning of the throwing motor spins the lifted target held on the beak assembly.