CA2893530C - Toy crossbow projectile launcher with extendable body and safety release - Google Patents
Toy crossbow projectile launcher with extendable body and safety release Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2893530C CA2893530C CA2893530A CA2893530A CA2893530C CA 2893530 C CA2893530 C CA 2893530C CA 2893530 A CA2893530 A CA 2893530A CA 2893530 A CA2893530 A CA 2893530A CA 2893530 C CA2893530 C CA 2893530C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- assembly
- handle
- projectile
- launcher body
- launcher
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F41—WEAPONS
- F41B—WEAPONS FOR PROJECTING MISSILES WITHOUT USE OF EXPLOSIVE OR COMBUSTIBLE PROPELLANT CHARGE; WEAPONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F41B5/00—Bows; Crossbows
- F41B5/12—Crossbows
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Toys (AREA)
Abstract
A toy projectile launcher assembly (10) has the form of a crossbow. The crossbow only launches the safety projectiles (40) that are provided. The launcher body (12) has a handle (24) at a first end and diverging support arms (18) at an opposite second end. An adjustment mechanism (70) is contained within the launcher body (12) for selectively adjusting the length of the launcher body (12). Bow arms (30) are attached to the support arms (18). The bow arms (30) pivot from retracted positions to extended positions when a projectile (40) is loaded into the toy crossbow. The toy crossbow has elastic loops (36) that can only engage specialized safety projectiles (40). Furthermore, the trigger mechanism (60) can only engage the safety projectiles (40) provided with the toy.
Description
2 TOY CROSSBOW PROJECTILE LAUNCHER WITH EXTENDABLE BODY
AND SAFETY RELEASE
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
In general, the present invention relates to toy crossbow systems that project toy arrows into flight.
More particularly, the present invention relates to the structure of toy projectile launchers and the mechanisms for loading and releasing projectiles.
BACKGROUND ART
Crossbows that are designed for child's play have existed since the Middle Ages. In the modern era, toy crossbows typically have a plastic molded body and an elastic string. The string is drawn along a rail on the toy's body and. is locked to a trigger. Arrows, sometimes referred. to as "bolts", are launched by placing the arrow on the rail in front of the drawn string. The trigger is released, therein causing the string to move forward and propel the arrow into flight.
Due to the nature of its design, any crossbow, including toy crossbows, are capable of launching most any object that is placed on the rail in front of the string. Although a toy crossbow may be sold with safety projectiles, a child can easily launch a stick or a metal-cast. toy model with equal ease. It will therefore be understood that even toy crossbows can become dangerous if loaded with unsafe projectiles and used in an unwise fashion.
Another problem with toy crossbows is their tendency to misfire after being used for a period of time. Toy crossbows mostly have an all-plastic construction. In most crossbow designs, the string of the crossbow must be drawn and set into the trigger catch before the projectile is set in place. This produces a significant amount of wear against the plastic trigder catch. As the plastic trigger catch begins to wear, it diminishes in size. This tends to cause the string to slip from the trigger catch and fire before the projectile is set or before the projectile can he directed toward a safe target.
Consequently, the toy crossbow can become an unsafe product.
A need therefore exists for a toy crossbow design that enables the toy crossbow to shoot only the safety projectiles that are packaged with the toy crossbow.
Furthermore, a need exists for a crossbow design that ?
improves the trigger mechanism in a manner that inhibits misfiring. These needs are met by the present invention as described and claimed below.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is a. toy projectile launcher assembly- in the form of a crossbow. The crossbow launches safety projectiles. Only authorized safety projectiles that are packaged with the toy can be launched. The crossbow is incapable of firing ordinary objects, even arrows, that are unauthorized.
The toy crossbow has a launcher body of a predetermined length. The launcher body has a handle at a first end and diverging support arms at an opposite second end. An adjustment mechanism is contained within the launcher body for selectively adjusting the predetermined length of the launcher body. This selectively controls the draw length needed to load projectiles.
The crossbow has diverging support arms. Bow arms are attached to the support arms. The bow arms pivot from retracted positions to extended positions when a projectile is loaded into the toy- crossbow.
Furthermore, the toy crossbow has elastic loops in
AND SAFETY RELEASE
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
In general, the present invention relates to toy crossbow systems that project toy arrows into flight.
More particularly, the present invention relates to the structure of toy projectile launchers and the mechanisms for loading and releasing projectiles.
BACKGROUND ART
Crossbows that are designed for child's play have existed since the Middle Ages. In the modern era, toy crossbows typically have a plastic molded body and an elastic string. The string is drawn along a rail on the toy's body and. is locked to a trigger. Arrows, sometimes referred. to as "bolts", are launched by placing the arrow on the rail in front of the drawn string. The trigger is released, therein causing the string to move forward and propel the arrow into flight.
Due to the nature of its design, any crossbow, including toy crossbows, are capable of launching most any object that is placed on the rail in front of the string. Although a toy crossbow may be sold with safety projectiles, a child can easily launch a stick or a metal-cast. toy model with equal ease. It will therefore be understood that even toy crossbows can become dangerous if loaded with unsafe projectiles and used in an unwise fashion.
Another problem with toy crossbows is their tendency to misfire after being used for a period of time. Toy crossbows mostly have an all-plastic construction. In most crossbow designs, the string of the crossbow must be drawn and set into the trigger catch before the projectile is set in place. This produces a significant amount of wear against the plastic trigder catch. As the plastic trigger catch begins to wear, it diminishes in size. This tends to cause the string to slip from the trigger catch and fire before the projectile is set or before the projectile can he directed toward a safe target.
Consequently, the toy crossbow can become an unsafe product.
A need therefore exists for a toy crossbow design that enables the toy crossbow to shoot only the safety projectiles that are packaged with the toy crossbow.
Furthermore, a need exists for a crossbow design that ?
improves the trigger mechanism in a manner that inhibits misfiring. These needs are met by the present invention as described and claimed below.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is a. toy projectile launcher assembly- in the form of a crossbow. The crossbow launches safety projectiles. Only authorized safety projectiles that are packaged with the toy can be launched. The crossbow is incapable of firing ordinary objects, even arrows, that are unauthorized.
The toy crossbow has a launcher body of a predetermined length. The launcher body has a handle at a first end and diverging support arms at an opposite second end. An adjustment mechanism is contained within the launcher body for selectively adjusting the predetermined length of the launcher body. This selectively controls the draw length needed to load projectiles.
The crossbow has diverging support arms. Bow arms are attached to the support arms. The bow arms pivot from retracted positions to extended positions when a projectile is loaded into the toy- crossbow.
Furthermore, the toy crossbow has elastic loops in
3 place of a drawstring. The elastic loops can only engage specialized safety projectiles that have side hooks for engaging the elastic loops.
The trigaer mechanism provided with the toy crossbow also can only engage the safety projectiles provided with the toy. The safety projectiles have rear tabs with keyholes. The trigger mechanism provides a catch that fits into the keyhole and.
engages the projectile to hold it in a loaded position.
Projectiles without the specific tab and keyhole cannot be loaded into the toy crossbow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a better understanding of the present invention, reference is made to the following description of an exemplary embodiment thereof, considered Inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a toy crossbow assembly and safety projectile in combination;
The trigaer mechanism provided with the toy crossbow also can only engage the safety projectiles provided with the toy. The safety projectiles have rear tabs with keyholes. The trigger mechanism provides a catch that fits into the keyhole and.
engages the projectile to hold it in a loaded position.
Projectiles without the specific tab and keyhole cannot be loaded into the toy crossbow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a better understanding of the present invention, reference is made to the following description of an exemplary embodiment thereof, considered Inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a toy crossbow assembly and safety projectile in combination;
4 WO 2015/021372 .
FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the embodiment of Fig. 1;
FIG. 3 is a top view of the combination of Fig.1 having the projectile loaded into the toy crossbow assembly; and FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the laucher body of the toy crossbow assembly showing the internal length adjustment mechanism and trigger mechanism_ DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF BEST MODE FOR CARRYING
OUT THE INVENTION
Although the present invention toy crossbow can be embodied in many ways, only one exemplary embodiment of the present invention toy crossbow is illustrated. The exemplary embodiment has been selected in order to set forth the best mode contemplated for the invention. The illustrated embodiment, however, is merely exemplary and should not be considered a limitation when interpreting the scope of the appended claims.
S
Referring to Fig. 1 in conjunction with Fig. 2, a first exemplary embodiment of a toy crossbow assembly is shown. The toy crossbow assembly 10 has a complex body 12 that enables the body 12 to be
FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the embodiment of Fig. 1;
FIG. 3 is a top view of the combination of Fig.1 having the projectile loaded into the toy crossbow assembly; and FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the laucher body of the toy crossbow assembly showing the internal length adjustment mechanism and trigger mechanism_ DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF BEST MODE FOR CARRYING
OUT THE INVENTION
Although the present invention toy crossbow can be embodied in many ways, only one exemplary embodiment of the present invention toy crossbow is illustrated. The exemplary embodiment has been selected in order to set forth the best mode contemplated for the invention. The illustrated embodiment, however, is merely exemplary and should not be considered a limitation when interpreting the scope of the appended claims.
S
Referring to Fig. 1 in conjunction with Fig. 2, a first exemplary embodiment of a toy crossbow assembly is shown. The toy crossbow assembly 10 has a complex body 12 that enables the body 12 to be
5 selectively configured into different shapes as the toy crossbow assembly 10 is loaded, cocke:i and fired.
The body 12 includes a. Y-shaped section 14. The 1-shaped section 14 has a hollow base 16 that leads into two diverging support arms 18. The hollow base 16 10 extends along a linear first axis 20. The two support arms 18 curve upwardly above the first axis 20 as they diverge.
A pivot post 22 extends upwardly from each of the support arms 18. The pivot posts 22 are parallel to each other and generally perpendicular to the line of the first axis 20.
The crossbow body 12 also contains a handle section 24. The handle section 24 has 2, straight segment 26 that is sized to pass into the hollow base 16 of the Y-shaped section 14 in a telescoping manner.
As will later be explained in more detail, the straight segment 26 can move reciprocally within the hollow base 16 of the Y-shaped section 14. Furthermore, the straight segment 26 can be selectively locked into
The body 12 includes a. Y-shaped section 14. The 1-shaped section 14 has a hollow base 16 that leads into two diverging support arms 18. The hollow base 16 10 extends along a linear first axis 20. The two support arms 18 curve upwardly above the first axis 20 as they diverge.
A pivot post 22 extends upwardly from each of the support arms 18. The pivot posts 22 are parallel to each other and generally perpendicular to the line of the first axis 20.
The crossbow body 12 also contains a handle section 24. The handle section 24 has 2, straight segment 26 that is sized to pass into the hollow base 16 of the Y-shaped section 14 in a telescoping manner.
As will later be explained in more detail, the straight segment 26 can move reciprocally within the hollow base 16 of the Y-shaped section 14. Furthermore, the straight segment 26 can be selectively locked into
6 place within the hollow base 16 at different points.
As such, the body 1.2 of the toy crossbow assembly 10 has an overall body length that can be selectively altered by advancing and retreating the straight segment 26 of the handle section 24 into, and out of, The hollow- base 16 of the Y-shaped section 14.
Two crossbow arms 30 are provided. Each of the crossbow arms 30, has a first end 28, a second end 29, and a pivot hole 32 disposed near the first end. 28.
The pivot hole 32 is sized to pass onto the pivot post 22 that extends vertically from the Y-shaped section 14 of the crossbow body 12. Once the pivot holes 32 of a crossbow arms 30 are connected to the pivot posts 22, the crossbow arms 30 are free to rotate about the pivot posts 22 through a limited range. The range of rotational movement is controlled by mechanical stops 34 that are formed. into the Y-shaped section 14 of the body 12 and. the crossbow arms 30. The mechanical stops 34 enable a rotational range of motion of between seventy degrees and 110 degrees. This enables the crossbow arms 30 to pivot about the pivot posts 22 from a fully retracted position to a fully extended position. In the fully retracted position, such as is shown in Fig. 1, the crossbow arms 30 are generally
As such, the body 1.2 of the toy crossbow assembly 10 has an overall body length that can be selectively altered by advancing and retreating the straight segment 26 of the handle section 24 into, and out of, The hollow- base 16 of the Y-shaped section 14.
Two crossbow arms 30 are provided. Each of the crossbow arms 30, has a first end 28, a second end 29, and a pivot hole 32 disposed near the first end. 28.
The pivot hole 32 is sized to pass onto the pivot post 22 that extends vertically from the Y-shaped section 14 of the crossbow body 12. Once the pivot holes 32 of a crossbow arms 30 are connected to the pivot posts 22, the crossbow arms 30 are free to rotate about the pivot posts 22 through a limited range. The range of rotational movement is controlled by mechanical stops 34 that are formed. into the Y-shaped section 14 of the body 12 and. the crossbow arms 30. The mechanical stops 34 enable a rotational range of motion of between seventy degrees and 110 degrees. This enables the crossbow arms 30 to pivot about the pivot posts 22 from a fully retracted position to a fully extended position. In the fully retracted position, such as is shown in Fig. 1, the crossbow arms 30 are generally
7 aligned in parallel with the first axis 20 of the handle section 24 of the body 12. Conversely, when the crossbow arms 30 afe in the fully extended position, such as is shown in Fig. 3, the crossbow arms 30 rotate to an orientation that is near perpendicular to the first axis 20 of the handle section 24.
A torsion spring 35 is provided around each of the pivot posts 22. The torsion springs 35 provide a spring bias to the crossbow arms 30 that bias the crossbow arms 30 into the fully retracted position shown in Fig. I. It will therefore be understood that when the crossbow arms 30 are moved to the fully extended position, such as is shown in Fig. 3, the torsion springs 35 are moved against their bias and store spring energy.
Referring to Fig. 3 in conjunction. with both Fig.
1 and Fig. 2, it can be seen that elastic loops 36 extend from first ends 28 of the crossbow arms 30. The elastic loops 36 are fabricated from an elastic material, such as rubber tubing, or an elastomeric material such as a TPR polymer. When the crossbow arms are in the fully retracted position, the two elastic loops 36 extend near each other at the front of the toy crossbow assembly 10.
A torsion spring 35 is provided around each of the pivot posts 22. The torsion springs 35 provide a spring bias to the crossbow arms 30 that bias the crossbow arms 30 into the fully retracted position shown in Fig. I. It will therefore be understood that when the crossbow arms 30 are moved to the fully extended position, such as is shown in Fig. 3, the torsion springs 35 are moved against their bias and store spring energy.
Referring to Fig. 3 in conjunction. with both Fig.
1 and Fig. 2, it can be seen that elastic loops 36 extend from first ends 28 of the crossbow arms 30. The elastic loops 36 are fabricated from an elastic material, such as rubber tubing, or an elastomeric material such as a TPR polymer. When the crossbow arms are in the fully retracted position, the two elastic loops 36 extend near each other at the front of the toy crossbow assembly 10.
8 , WO 2015/021372 =
The toy crossbow assembly 10 is part of an overall toy system that includes specially formed safety projectiles 40. Each safety projectile 40 is a simulated arrow that has a head 42, a shaft 44 and a.
tail 46. The head 42 of each safety projectile 40 is preferably made of a foam rubber or similar low-density polymer formulation for safety. The head 42 of the safety projectile 40 can be blunt or can be formed as a suction cup.
Hooks 48 are formed on the head 42 of the safety projectile 40 near the rear of the head 42. The hooks 48 extend from opposite sides of the head 42. The shaft 44 extends from the head 42 to the rear of the overall projectile 40. At the rear of the safety projectile 40, the shaft terminates with a flattened tab 50. On the flattened tab 50 is formed one or more key holes 52. The key holes 52 preferably have a complex shape in the form of a. complex polygon or an asymmetrical polygen. The complex shape of the key holes 52 helps ensure that only the safety projectile 40 is loadable into the toy crossbow assembly 10, as is explained below.
From Fig. 3, it can be seen that in order to load the safety projectile 40 into the toy crossbow
The toy crossbow assembly 10 is part of an overall toy system that includes specially formed safety projectiles 40. Each safety projectile 40 is a simulated arrow that has a head 42, a shaft 44 and a.
tail 46. The head 42 of each safety projectile 40 is preferably made of a foam rubber or similar low-density polymer formulation for safety. The head 42 of the safety projectile 40 can be blunt or can be formed as a suction cup.
Hooks 48 are formed on the head 42 of the safety projectile 40 near the rear of the head 42. The hooks 48 extend from opposite sides of the head 42. The shaft 44 extends from the head 42 to the rear of the overall projectile 40. At the rear of the safety projectile 40, the shaft terminates with a flattened tab 50. On the flattened tab 50 is formed one or more key holes 52. The key holes 52 preferably have a complex shape in the form of a. complex polygon or an asymmetrical polygen. The complex shape of the key holes 52 helps ensure that only the safety projectile 40 is loadable into the toy crossbow assembly 10, as is explained below.
From Fig. 3, it can be seen that in order to load the safety projectile 40 into the toy crossbow
9 assembly 10, the hooks 48 on the safety projectile 40 are engaged with the elastic loops 36. The safety projectile 40 is then pulled in the direction of the first axis 20 until the tab 52 of the projectile 40 reaches a protruding catch 54. The protruding- catch 54 . is straight, yet has a. cross-sectional profile that matches the complex shape of the key hole 52 on the tab 50 of the safety projectile 40. This enables the protruding catch 54 to pass into the key hole 52 and .10 mechanically engage the tab 50 of the safety projectile 40. If a projectile does not have a key hole or a key hole of the proper shape, then the protruding catch 54 would have no be able to engage the projectile. It will therefore be understood that the protruding catch 54 is specific to the safety pro-jectile 40 provided and will not engage sticks, tinker toys, arrows from other toys, or any other unsafe projectile.
As the hooks 48 from the safety projectile 40 engage the elastic' loops 36, the safety projectile 40 applies tension to the elastic loops 36 and begins to stretch the elastic loops 36. As tension is applied to the elastic loops 36, the elastic loops 36 cause the crossbow arms 30 to pivot about the pivot posts 22 and rotate from the fully retracted position toward the fully extended position. The safety projectile 40 eventually is connected to the protruding catch 54.
Once the safety projectile 40 is engaged with. the protruding catch 54, the toy crossbow assembly 10 is loaded, cocked, and ready for firing.
The velocity at which the safety projectile 40 is launched is directly proportional to the tension experienced by the elastic loops 36. The greater the tension, the more energy is stored by the elastic loops 36 and the greater the release velocity. To selectively control the tension in the elastic loops 36, the handle section 24 of the body 12 can be extended. As has been previously mentioned, the handle section 24 of the crossbow body 12 is reciprocally extendable from the Y-shaped section 14. By extending the handle section 24, the protruding catch 54 can be moved farther away from the elastic loops 36.
Consequently, the elastic loops 36 are forced to stretch longer as the handle section 24 is extended on the toy crossbow assembly 10.
By providing a handle section 24 that can be selectively extended, the launching power of the toy crossbow assembly 10 can be controlled by the user.
The toy crossbow assembly 10 can therefore be adjusted for both safe indoor play and outdoor play. Likewise, the launching power can be adjusted for use with safety projectiles 40 of different weights.
Referring to Fig. 4 in conjunction with Fig. 2, an exemplary trigger mechanism 60 and exemplary length adjustment mechanism 70 for the toy crossbow assembly are shown. The length adjustment mechanism 70 is a simple pivot latch. A button 72 is provided on the
As the hooks 48 from the safety projectile 40 engage the elastic' loops 36, the safety projectile 40 applies tension to the elastic loops 36 and begins to stretch the elastic loops 36. As tension is applied to the elastic loops 36, the elastic loops 36 cause the crossbow arms 30 to pivot about the pivot posts 22 and rotate from the fully retracted position toward the fully extended position. The safety projectile 40 eventually is connected to the protruding catch 54.
Once the safety projectile 40 is engaged with. the protruding catch 54, the toy crossbow assembly 10 is loaded, cocked, and ready for firing.
The velocity at which the safety projectile 40 is launched is directly proportional to the tension experienced by the elastic loops 36. The greater the tension, the more energy is stored by the elastic loops 36 and the greater the release velocity. To selectively control the tension in the elastic loops 36, the handle section 24 of the body 12 can be extended. As has been previously mentioned, the handle section 24 of the crossbow body 12 is reciprocally extendable from the Y-shaped section 14. By extending the handle section 24, the protruding catch 54 can be moved farther away from the elastic loops 36.
Consequently, the elastic loops 36 are forced to stretch longer as the handle section 24 is extended on the toy crossbow assembly 10.
By providing a handle section 24 that can be selectively extended, the launching power of the toy crossbow assembly 10 can be controlled by the user.
The toy crossbow assembly 10 can therefore be adjusted for both safe indoor play and outdoor play. Likewise, the launching power can be adjusted for use with safety projectiles 40 of different weights.
Referring to Fig. 4 in conjunction with Fig. 2, an exemplary trigger mechanism 60 and exemplary length adjustment mechanism 70 for the toy crossbow assembly are shown. The length adjustment mechanism 70 is a simple pivot latch. A button 72 is provided on the
10 exterior of the Y-shaped section 14. The button 72 depresses a spring loaded latch 74 when depressed. The latch 74 engages ridges 76 on the straight segment 26 of the handle section 24. The latch 74 is disengaged when the button 72 is pressed. This enables the straight segment 26 to freely move back and forth within the Y-shaped section 14. Once adjusted to the proper overall length, the button 72 is released_ The trigger mechanism 60 includes a trigger pull 62. The protruding catch 54 is set in a slot and is biased into its protruding condition by a spring 64.
When the trigger pull 62 is manually depressed, the trigger pull 62 moves a cam finger 66. The cam finger 66 engages the protruding catch 54 and moves the protruding catch 54 against the bias of the spring 64.
This causes the top of the protruding catch 54 to retract into the handle section 24 and disengage any safety projectile 40 it may have been retaining.
It is preferred that the trigger mechanism 60 also contains a safety lock 68 that prevents the trigger mechanism 60 from being- inadvertently activated. The preferred safety- lock 68 has a.
secondary finger pull 69. In order to pull the main trigger pull 62, the secondary finger pull 69 must first be manually pulled. If not pulled, the safety lock 68 prevents the primary trigger pull 62 from moving when pulled.
Referring to all figures, it will be understood that in order to utilize the crossbow assembly 10, a person takes the crossbow assembly 10 and maneuvers the safety projectile 40 until the hooks 48 on the safety projectile 40 engage the elastic loops 36. Only a projectile with properly spaced hooks will work to engage the elastic loops 36. This interconnects the safety projectile 40 with the elastomeric loops 36 of the toy crossbow assembly 10. The safety projectile 40 is then manually grasped and pulled rearwardly along the first axis 20. This causes the elastic loops 36 to stretch and store energy. It also causes the crossbow arms 30 to rotate against the spring bias of the torsion springs 35 and store further energy. The tab 50 of the safety projectile 40 is then engaged with the protruding catch 54 of the trigger mechanism 60.
Again, only a projectile with the properly configured tab will be able to engage the protruding catch 54.
The tension in the elastic loops 36 can be increased by extending the handle section 24 of the crossbow body 12. This increases the overall length Li of the body 12 and makes the elastic loops 36 stretch farther. Once a desired degree of stretch is applied to the elastic loops 36, the trigger mechanism 60 is primed by pressing the secondary finger pull 69 of the safety lock 68. The toy crossbow assembly 10 is then aimed and the primary trigger pull 62 is engaged. This retracts the protruding catch 54 and releases the safety projectile 40 into flight.
It will be understood that the embodiment of the present invention that is illustrated and described is merely exemplary and that a person skilled in the art can make many variations to that embodiment. For instance, the bow structure can have many different ornamental shapes. Likewise, the arrow projectiles can be configured as airplanes, rocket ships or any other flying projectile. All such embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention as defined by the claims.
When the trigger pull 62 is manually depressed, the trigger pull 62 moves a cam finger 66. The cam finger 66 engages the protruding catch 54 and moves the protruding catch 54 against the bias of the spring 64.
This causes the top of the protruding catch 54 to retract into the handle section 24 and disengage any safety projectile 40 it may have been retaining.
It is preferred that the trigger mechanism 60 also contains a safety lock 68 that prevents the trigger mechanism 60 from being- inadvertently activated. The preferred safety- lock 68 has a.
secondary finger pull 69. In order to pull the main trigger pull 62, the secondary finger pull 69 must first be manually pulled. If not pulled, the safety lock 68 prevents the primary trigger pull 62 from moving when pulled.
Referring to all figures, it will be understood that in order to utilize the crossbow assembly 10, a person takes the crossbow assembly 10 and maneuvers the safety projectile 40 until the hooks 48 on the safety projectile 40 engage the elastic loops 36. Only a projectile with properly spaced hooks will work to engage the elastic loops 36. This interconnects the safety projectile 40 with the elastomeric loops 36 of the toy crossbow assembly 10. The safety projectile 40 is then manually grasped and pulled rearwardly along the first axis 20. This causes the elastic loops 36 to stretch and store energy. It also causes the crossbow arms 30 to rotate against the spring bias of the torsion springs 35 and store further energy. The tab 50 of the safety projectile 40 is then engaged with the protruding catch 54 of the trigger mechanism 60.
Again, only a projectile with the properly configured tab will be able to engage the protruding catch 54.
The tension in the elastic loops 36 can be increased by extending the handle section 24 of the crossbow body 12. This increases the overall length Li of the body 12 and makes the elastic loops 36 stretch farther. Once a desired degree of stretch is applied to the elastic loops 36, the trigger mechanism 60 is primed by pressing the secondary finger pull 69 of the safety lock 68. The toy crossbow assembly 10 is then aimed and the primary trigger pull 62 is engaged. This retracts the protruding catch 54 and releases the safety projectile 40 into flight.
It will be understood that the embodiment of the present invention that is illustrated and described is merely exemplary and that a person skilled in the art can make many variations to that embodiment. For instance, the bow structure can have many different ornamental shapes. Likewise, the arrow projectiles can be configured as airplanes, rocket ships or any other flying projectile. All such embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention as defined by the claims.
Claims (27)
1. A toy projectile launcher assembly for a launching a toy projectile, the assembly comprising:
a launcher body of a predetermined length, the launcher body having a handle at a first end thereof, and first and second diverging support arms at a second end thereof;
an adjustment mechanism for selectively adjusting said predetermined length of the launcher body such that the handle is selectively extendable relative to the support arms;
a release catch that extends from said handle and to which the toy projectile is connectable;
a first bow arm attached to said first support arm and a second bow arm attached to said second support arm; and a first elastic loop coupled to and extending from said first bow arm and a second elastic loop coupled to and extending from said second bow arm, the elastic loops being connectable with the toy projectile and when stretched providing energy for launching the projectile.
a launcher body of a predetermined length, the launcher body having a handle at a first end thereof, and first and second diverging support arms at a second end thereof;
an adjustment mechanism for selectively adjusting said predetermined length of the launcher body such that the handle is selectively extendable relative to the support arms;
a release catch that extends from said handle and to which the toy projectile is connectable;
a first bow arm attached to said first support arm and a second bow arm attached to said second support arm; and a first elastic loop coupled to and extending from said first bow arm and a second elastic loop coupled to and extending from said second bow arm, the elastic loops being connectable with the toy projectile and when stretched providing energy for launching the projectile.
2. The assembly according to claim 1, further including a first pivot connection, the first bow arm attaching to the first support arm via the first pivot connection, the first pivot connection enabling the first bow arm to rotate relative to the first support arm, and a second pivot connection, the second bow arm attaching to the second support arm via the second pivot connection, the second pivot connection enabling the second bow arm to rotate relative to the second support arm.
3. The assembly according to claim 2, further including a pair of torsion springs attached to respective ones of the pivot connections, the springs biasing said bow arms into retracted positions.
4. The assembly according to claim 1, further including a trigger mechanism for selectively retracting said release catch into said handle.
5. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein said launcher body includes a Y-shaped section that includes a hollow base and said support arms.
6. The assembly according to claim 5, wherein said handle of the launcher body has a straight section sized for positioning within said hollow base of said Y-shaped section of the launcher body in a telescoping manner.
7. The assembly according to claim 6, wherein said adjustment mechanism controls reciprocal movement of said handle relative to said hollow base.
8. The assembly as claimed in claim 6 wherein the straight section of the handle of the launcher body includes a plurality of ridges, wherein the adjustment mechanism is a spring-loaded latch which engages the ridges on the straight section of the handle, and wherein the assembly further includes a button, the latch being selectively disengageable from the ridges for freely moving the straight section of the handle of the launcher body back and forth relative to the Y-shaped section of the launcher body upon actuation of said button.
9. The assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the assembly is configured such that extending the handle causes the catch to be moved farther away from the elastic loops.
10. The assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the assembly is configured such that selective extension of the handle enables launching power of the toy projectile to be controlled by a user.
11. A toy projectile launcher and safety projectile assembly, wherein said projectile launcher launches said safety projectile into flight, said assembly comprising:
a launcher body of a predetermined length, the launcher body having a handle at a first end thereof and having first and second diverging support arms at a second end thereof;
an adjustment mechanism for selectively adjusting said predetermined length of the launcher body such that the handle is selectively extendable relative to the support arms;
a first elastic loop supported by and operatively coupled to the first support arm, and a second elastic loop supported by and operatively coupled to the second support arm;
a projectile having a head, hooks, a tail, and a tab proximate said tail, the hooks of the projectile being connectable with said elastic loops, and wherein a key hole of a predetermined shape is formed through said tab; and a trigger mechanism coupled to the handle and supported by said launcher body, wherein said trigger mechanism includes a catch that engages said projectile upon the projectile so connected to the elastic loops being pulled rearward, by extending through said key hole in said tab, and a trigger pull that retracts said catch out of said key hole when said trigger pull is manually activated for selectively launching the projectile.
a launcher body of a predetermined length, the launcher body having a handle at a first end thereof and having first and second diverging support arms at a second end thereof;
an adjustment mechanism for selectively adjusting said predetermined length of the launcher body such that the handle is selectively extendable relative to the support arms;
a first elastic loop supported by and operatively coupled to the first support arm, and a second elastic loop supported by and operatively coupled to the second support arm;
a projectile having a head, hooks, a tail, and a tab proximate said tail, the hooks of the projectile being connectable with said elastic loops, and wherein a key hole of a predetermined shape is formed through said tab; and a trigger mechanism coupled to the handle and supported by said launcher body, wherein said trigger mechanism includes a catch that engages said projectile upon the projectile so connected to the elastic loops being pulled rearward, by extending through said key hole in said tab, and a trigger pull that retracts said catch out of said key hole when said trigger pull is manually activated for selectively launching the projectile.
12. The assembly according to claim 11, wherein said catch has a cross-sectional shape that matches said predetermined shape of said key hole.
13. The assembly according to claim Ii, further including a first pivot connection, a first bow arm attached to said first support arm via the first pivot connection, the first pivot connection enabling said first bow arm to rotate relative to said first support arm, the assembly including a second pivot connection, and the assembly including a second bow arm attached to said second support arm via said second pivot connection, the second pivot connection enabling said second bow arm to rotate relative to said second support arm.
14. The assembly according to claim 13, further including a pair of torsion springs attached to respective ones of the pivot connections, the springs biasing said bow arms into retracted positions, the assembly being configured such that engagement of the catch with said tab of said projectile tensions the elastic loops and causes said bow arms to rotate away from said retracted positions thereby.
15. The assembly according to claim 11, wherein said launcher body includes a Y-shaped section that includes a hollow base, said hollow base leading to said first support arm and said second support arm.
16. The assembly according to claim 15, wherein said launcher body further includes a handle having a straight section sized for positioning within said hollow base of said Y-shaped section of the launcher body in a telescoping manner.
17. The assembly according to claim 16, wherein the adjustment mechanism controls reciprocal movement of said handle relative to said hollow base.
18. The assembly as claimed in claim 16 wherein the straight section of the handle of the launcher body includes a plurality of ridges, wherein the adjustment mechanism is a spring-loaded latch which engages the ridges on the straight section of the handle, and wherein the assembly further includes a button, the latch being selectively disengageable from the ridges for freely moving the straight section of the handle of the launcher body back and forth relative to the Y-shaped section of the launcher body upon actuation of said button.
19. The assembly as claimed in claim 11, wherein the assembly is configured such that extending the handle causes the catch to be moved farther away from the elastic loops.
20. The assembly as claimed in claim 11, wherein the assembly is configured such that selective extension of the handle enables launching power of the projectile to be controlled by a user.
21. A toy launcher assembly for a launching a toy projectile, the assembly comprising:
a launcher body of a predetermined length, the launcher body having a handle at one end thereof and first and second support arms at an opposite second end thereof;
an adjustment mechanism for selectively adjusting said predetermined length of the launcher body such that the handle is selectively extendable relative to the support arms;
a release catch that extends from said handle and to which the toy projectile is connectable;
first and second pivot connections;
a first bow arm rotatably connected to said first support arm via said first pivot connection, and a second bow arm rotatably connected to said second support arm via said second pivot connection;
a pair of torsion springs attached to respective ones of the pivot connections, the springs biasing said bow arms into retracted positions; and a first elastic loop coupling to and extending from said first bow arm and a second elastic loop coupling to and extending from said second bow arm, said elastic loops causing said bow arms to rotate about said pivot connections from said retracted positions into extended positions when tension is applied to said elastic loops that pull said elastic loops toward said handle of said launcher body, the elastic loops being connectable with the toy projectile and when stretched providing energy for launching the projectile.
a launcher body of a predetermined length, the launcher body having a handle at one end thereof and first and second support arms at an opposite second end thereof;
an adjustment mechanism for selectively adjusting said predetermined length of the launcher body such that the handle is selectively extendable relative to the support arms;
a release catch that extends from said handle and to which the toy projectile is connectable;
first and second pivot connections;
a first bow arm rotatably connected to said first support arm via said first pivot connection, and a second bow arm rotatably connected to said second support arm via said second pivot connection;
a pair of torsion springs attached to respective ones of the pivot connections, the springs biasing said bow arms into retracted positions; and a first elastic loop coupling to and extending from said first bow arm and a second elastic loop coupling to and extending from said second bow arm, said elastic loops causing said bow arms to rotate about said pivot connections from said retracted positions into extended positions when tension is applied to said elastic loops that pull said elastic loops toward said handle of said launcher body, the elastic loops being connectable with the toy projectile and when stretched providing energy for launching the projectile.
22. The assembly according to claim 21, further including a trigger mechanism for selectively retracting said release catch into said handle.
23. The assembly according to claim 21, wherein said launcher body includes a Y-shaped section that includes a hollow base and said support arms.
24. The assembly according to claim 23, wherein said handle of the launcher body has a straight section sized for positioning within said hollow base of said Y-shaped section of the launcher body in a telescoping manner.
25. The assembly as claimed in claim 24 wherein the straight section of the handle of the launcher body includes a plurality of ridges, wherein the adjustment mechanism is a spring-loaded latch which engages the ridges on the straight section of the handle, and wherein the assembly further includes a button, the latch being selectively disengageable from the ridges for freely moving the straight section of the handle of the launcher body back and forth relative to the Y-shaped section of the launcher body upon actuation of said button.
26. The assembly as claimed in claim 21, wherein the assembly is configured such that extending the handle causes the catch to be moved farther away from the elastic loops.
27. The assembly as claimed in claim 21, wherein the assembly is configured such that selective extension of the handle enables launching power of the toy projectile to be controlled by a user.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US13/964,027 US8991373B2 (en) | 2013-05-19 | 2013-08-09 | Toy crossbow projectile launcher with extendable body and safety release |
| US13/964,027 | 2013-08-09 | ||
| PCT/US2014/050328 WO2015021372A1 (en) | 2013-08-09 | 2014-08-08 | Toy crossbow projectile launcher with extendable body and safety release |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2893530A1 CA2893530A1 (en) | 2015-02-12 |
| CA2893530C true CA2893530C (en) | 2016-03-29 |
Family
ID=52461958
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2893530A Expired - Fee Related CA2893530C (en) | 2013-08-09 | 2014-08-08 | Toy crossbow projectile launcher with extendable body and safety release |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2893530C (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2015021372A1 (en) |
Family Cites Families (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR2625800B1 (en) * | 1988-01-12 | 1990-07-06 | Lacroix E Tous Artifices | SHOULDER WEAPON FOR ROCKET LAUNCHER |
| US6754968B2 (en) * | 2001-11-19 | 2004-06-29 | Aldric K. Lee | Aiming apparatus for a slingshot |
| US6925744B2 (en) * | 2003-05-13 | 2005-08-09 | Abrams Airborne Manufacturing, Inc. | Modular firearm buttstock |
| US7748370B1 (en) * | 2007-09-25 | 2010-07-06 | Horton Archery, Llc | Method of cocking a crossbow having increased performance |
| US8689773B2 (en) * | 2010-09-09 | 2014-04-08 | Kma Concepts Limited | Toy projectile launcher |
| CN203069048U (en) * | 2013-01-25 | 2013-07-17 | 潘佳伟 | Portable crossbow |
-
2014
- 2014-08-08 CA CA2893530A patent/CA2893530C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2014-08-08 WO PCT/US2014/050328 patent/WO2015021372A1/en active Application Filing
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| WO2015021372A1 (en) | 2015-02-12 |
| CA2893530A1 (en) | 2015-02-12 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US8991373B2 (en) | Toy crossbow projectile launcher with extendable body and safety release | |
| US8485168B2 (en) | Toy launcher with safety projectiles | |
| US8689773B2 (en) | Toy projectile launcher | |
| US9097483B2 (en) | Toy launcher with safety projectiles | |
| US9255756B1 (en) | Multifunctional crossbow | |
| US10195518B2 (en) | Launchable projectiles and launchers for the same | |
| CA2291108C (en) | Ring airfoil launcher | |
| CA2821758C (en) | Toy projectile launcher | |
| CA2893530C (en) | Toy crossbow projectile launcher with extendable body and safety release | |
| US3299564A (en) | Launching pad and flying toy combination | |
| US8366572B1 (en) | Throwing arrow | |
| US9417030B2 (en) | Safety mechanism for toy launching systems | |
| CA2874060C (en) | Toy launcher with safety projectiles | |
| CA2284652C (en) | Ring airfoil launcher | |
| NZ615750B2 (en) | Toy projectile launcher |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request |
Effective date: 20150602 |
|
| MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20200831 |