Target Launching Device Friction Surface Trajectory Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current target launching devices for clay pigeon and archery lack effective cooperation between the launch zone and the target, resulting in unstable and wind-sensitive trajectories, which are not reproducible.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus features a support surface with friction means, including reliefs and a freely rotating roller, to ensure proper rotation of the target before projection, stabilizing its trajectory and enhancing accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional launch zone is used without friction means, then the device structure remains simple, but the target trajectory becomes unstable and wind-sensitive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies friction means (reliefs or rough parts) specifically in the launch zone where the target contacts the support surface during projection. This localized modification creates high friction only where needed for rotation initiation, while the rest of the device remains simple. The reliefs or rough parts are confined to the bearing surface area, providing trajectory stability without complicating the overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses reliefs or rough parts that extend beyond the minimum necessary contact area with the target. This excessive friction surface ensures that even with variations in target placement or slight misalignments, the friction means always engages effectively to produce the required rotation. The over-designed friction zone guarantees reliable trajectory stability without requiring precise positioning mechanisms.
2Manufacturing precision
If friction means are added to the support surface, then target rotation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the support surface by changing its friction parameter through reliefs or rough parts. Instead of designing a completely new complex mechanism, the solution alters the surface characteristics of the existing support surface. The reliefs (protrusions) or rough parts (increased surface roughness) are straightforward geometric modifications that can be manufactured using conventional machining, molding, or surface treatment processes, maintaining ease of fabrication while achieving precise rotation control.
3Reliability
If the throwing arm applies force without a freely rotating roller, then the device structure is simpler, but the target trajectory is less reproducible
Solution Approach 1:
The freely rotating roller on the throwing arm performs preliminary rotation of the target before projection. By pre-rotating the target during the acceleration phase, the system ensures that the target leaves the launch zone with consistent rotational velocity. This preliminary action eliminates variations in target orientation and rotation at the moment of release, making trajectories highly reproducible. The roller continuously contacts the target during acceleration, maintaining consistent rotational input without adding complex control mechanisms.
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 provides a more stable and reproducible target trajectory, reducing sensitivity to wind and improving performance in both training and competition settings.
Implementation Method 1
the support surface comprises friction means for the rotation of the target during its projection by the throwing arm
Implementation Method 2
the throwing arm comprises a surface for pushing the target consisting of the outer surface of a free-rotating roller
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for launching targets (2), comprising a surface (12) for supporting a target (2) to be launched and a launch arm (1) capable of applying a launch force on the target. The invention is characterised in that the aforementioned supporting surface comprises friction means for rotating the target as it is being launched by the launch arm. The invention is particularly suitable for launching archery targets.