US20060011190A1 - Bow suspension system - Google Patents
Bow suspension system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060011190A1 US20060011190A1 US11/184,572 US18457205A US2006011190A1 US 20060011190 A1 US20060011190 A1 US 20060011190A1 US 18457205 A US18457205 A US 18457205A US 2006011190 A1 US2006011190 A1 US 2006011190A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- string
- limb
- riser
- archery bow
- suspension
- 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.)
- Abandoned
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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
- F41B5/10—Compound bows
-
- 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
- F41B5/10—Compound bows
- F41B5/105—Cams or pulleys for compound bows
Definitions
- This invention relates to an archery bow. More particularly, the invention relates to a suspension system for dampening vibrational energy and noise in an archery bow.
- Archery bows are typically utilized by individuals participating in hunting or recreational archery. In each of these activities, the ability to control the exact location to which the arrow is shot is essential. At the same time, the drawing back of the string and subsequent release creates vibrational energy throughout the bow, especially in the strings and the limbs. This vibrational energy substantially interferes with one's ability to control the bow. Thus, a system that reduces vibrational energy is a highly desirable feature for a bow.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,415,780 to Proctor is directed to a bearing system for a compound bow.
- the bearing system includes a sealed ball bearing assembly and a bearing support element.
- a cam is mounted along an axle.
- the axle is supported on opposite sides of the cam by the ball bearing assembly.
- the ball bearing assemblies are received in bores formed in limb tip overlays.
- the limb tip overlays are secured to limb tips by an adhesive.
- a hole in the limb blank may be created to support the ball bearing assemblies.
- the ball bearing assemblies reduce rotational friction and enhance lateral stability of the cam.
- Untied States Patent Application Publication Number 2002/0166550 discloses an archery bow cam including a dead blow assembly fitted within a coil spring.
- the dead blow assembly which includes a dead blow element and two damping elements, dampens cam vibrations at the end of a bow shot.
- a suspension system for dampening vibrational energy and noise in an archery bow.
- the suspension system includes an axle shaft.
- a rotating member is rotatably coupled to the axle shaft and defines a string groove.
- a string partially extends along the string groove.
- the string has an over molded portion contacting the string groove for decoupling the string from the string groove to dampen vibrational energy and noise generated during each shot of the archery bow.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bow
- FIG. 2 is a fragmentary perspective view of the bow including a suspension system according to the invention
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 3 - 3 in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a limb including an axle clearance hole extending therethrough;
- FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an interlocking hub, a ball bearing, a dampening material for positioning within the limb;
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the limb having the interlocking hub and the ball bearing positioned within a recessed portion;
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the limb showing a spacer covering the ball bearing
- FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8 - 8 of FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the suspension system according to the invention.
- FIG. 10 is a sectional view of a ball bearing having a dampening material molded thereto;
- FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the ball bearing and the dampening material
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an axle shaft of the suspension system
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the axle shaft including the ball bearing with the dampening material molded thereto;
- FIG. 14 is a partially cut away view of the bow having pulleys mounted along the axle shaft;
- FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of the pulley including a two-part outer bushing and a two-part inner bushing;
- FIG. 16 is a sectional view of the pulley
- FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of the pulley including one-piece outer and inner bushings
- FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the pulley of FIG. 17 ;
- FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the pulley including a ball bearing
- FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an elastomeric member
- FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of a rotating member, a plurality of string post hookups located on the rotating member, and elastomeric members;
- FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the elastomeric member coupled to one of the string post hookups
- FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of an outer ring formed from a dampening material and a wheel
- FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the outer ring molded to the wheel
- FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 25 - 25 of FIG. 24 ;
- FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of the outer ring for stretching around the cam
- FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the rotating member and the outer ring coupled to the string post hookups
- FIG. 28 is an exploded perspective view of a bushing assembly
- FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the bushing assembly mounted along the axle shaft within the cam;
- FIG. 30 is a sectional view of the cam including two of the bushing assemblies housed therewithin;
- FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the bushing assembly positioned within an axle clearance hole of the limb;
- FIG. 32 is an isolated perspective view of a string shock absorber assembly interconnecting first and second strings;
- FIG. 33 is an exploded perspective view of the string shock absorber assembly
- FIG. 34 is a cut away view of the shock absorber assembly
- FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a string end connector interconnecting first and second strings
- FIG. 36 is a cut away view of the wheel including an internal suspension assembly
- FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 37 - 37 in FIG. 36 ;
- FIG. 38 is a partially exploded view of the cross-sectional view in FIG. 37 ;
- FIG. 39 is an isolated view of a dampening dowel of the internal suspension assembly
- FIG. 40 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention including a string having a plurality of over molded portions;
- FIG. 41 is a front, elevational view of a mold for over molding the string with the plurality of over molded portions
- FIG. 42 is a perspective view of the string positioned inside the mold
- FIG. 43 is a fragmentary, perspective view of the string installed along a cam of an archery bow wherein one of the over molded portions is disposed between the string and a string groove of the cam;
- FIG. 44 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention including a wheel having a body
- FIG. 45 is a perspective view of the wheel including an over molding molded to the body
- FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 46 - 46 of FIG. 45 including a string groove of the wheel covered by the over molding;
- FIG. 47 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention including a cam having a body
- FIG. 48 is a side view of the cam including an over molding secured to the body
- FIG. 49 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 49 - 49 in FIG. 48 including a string groove of the cam covered by the over molding;
- FIG. 50 is a fragmentary, perspective view of one limb of an archery bow including a fork at a distal end;
- FIG. 51 is a partially exploded, fragmentary perspective view of the limb fork including a pair of spaced apart housings for receiving an interlocking hub;
- FIG. 52 is a fragmentary, perspective view of the limb fork including a suspension device over molded onto outboard and inboard surfaces of the housing for interlocking engagement with the interlocking hub;
- FIG. 53 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 53 - 53 in FIG. 52 ;
- FIG. 54 is a perspective view of a billet, including at least one billet portion secured thereto, utilized for machining a limb;
- FIG. 55 is a perspective view of the billet, including the at least one billet portion., with the machined limb formed therefrom shown in phantom;
- FIG. 56 is an exploded, perspective view of the attachment between a limb tip housing and a limb tip according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 57 is an exploded, perspective view of the limb tip housing including an interlocking hub retainer retaining an interlocking hub in place;
- FIG. 58 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention including a suspension device disposed between a limb tip housing and a limb;
- FIG. 59 is an exploded, perspective view of the suspension device for positioning between the limb tip housing and the limb;
- FIG. 60 is a perspective view of a riser including a suspension housing according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 61 is a fragmentary, perspective view of an archery bow including a suspension device disposed within the suspension housing for decoupling the riser from a cable guard;
- FIG. 62 is a fragmentary, rear perspective view of an archery bow including a suspension device according to another embodiment of the invention positioned inside a cable guard slide;
- FIG. 63 is a perspective view of the cable guard slide including the suspension device decoupling the cable guard slide from the cable guard arm;
- FIG. 64 is a fragmentary, perspective view of an archery bow according to another embodiment of the invention including a cable guard arm;
- FIG. 65 is a an exploded, perspective view of the cable guard arm including a suspension device disposed between elongated inner and outer cores;
- FIG. 66 is a fragmentary, perspective view of an archery bow according to another embodiment of the invention including a roller arm extending out from a riser;
- FIG. 67 is a exploded, perspective view of the roller arm including a pulley disposed between a pair of suspension devices;
- FIG. 68 is a perspective view of a suspension device decoupling a limb from an axle shaft of an archery bow according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 69 is a cross-sectional view of the suspension device decoupling the limb from the axle shaft
- FIG. 70 is a perspective view of a limb rotatably mounted along an axle shaft adjacent a suspension device according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 71 is a cross-sectional view of the limb including a clearance hole for allowing relative shifting of a ;
- FIG. 72 is a fragmentary, perspective view of an archery bow according to another embodiment of the invention including a suspension device disposed between upper and lower limb portions.
- an archery bow generally shown at 10 , includes a handle or riser 12 , a grip 14 , and limb pockets 16 , 18 secured to the riser 12 .
- the bow 10 includes a pair of upper limbs 20 , 22 extending between the limb pocket 16 and a rotating member or wheel 24 .
- a pair of lower limbs 26 , 28 extends between the limb pocket 18 and a rotating member or cam 30 .
- the wheel 24 and the cam 30 are each rotatably mounted on a respective axle shaft 32 , 34 .
- the axle shaft 32 extends between the upper limbs 20 , 22
- the axle shaft 34 extends between the lower limbs 26 , 28 .
- a string 36 extends from a distal end 38 of the upper limbs 20 , 22 to a distal end 40 of the lower limbs 26 , 28 . More specifically, one end of the string 36 extends around the wheel 24 and the other end of the string 36 extends around the cam 30 .
- a drawstring portion 35 of the string 36 is drawn away from the riser 10 , which causes the distal ends 36 , 40 of the limbs 20 , 22 , 26 , 28 to flex inwardly. As a result, energy is stored within the limbs 20 , 22 , 26 , 28 . This stored energy is released when the drawstring portion 35 of the string 36 is released to shoot an arrow 33 .
- a regular harness 42 and a split harness 44 also extend between the wheel 24 and the cam 30 .
- a cable guard rod 46 extends between the riser 12 and the string 36 .
- a suspension system, generally shown at 46 , for the bow 10 includes one of the upper limbs 22 , the axle shaft 32 , a bushing or ball bearing 48 mounted along the axle shaft 32 , and a dampening member 50 extending outwardly from the bushing 48 and positioned between the bushing 48 and the upper limb 22 .
- the suspension system 46 is also rigid enough to support the bow 10 . As a result, the suspension system 46 is able to store kinetic energy, to dissipate shock, and to increase bow speed.
- the dampening member 50 is an elastomeric material including thermoplastic elastomers.
- the dampening member 50 is formed from urethane.
- the dampening member 50 may also be a spring, a spring washer, or an incompressible fluid.
- the dampening member 50 decouples the axle shaft 32 from the upper limb 22 so that the axle shaft 32 floats freely relative thereto.
- the dampening member 50 absorbs vibrational energy exerted through the axle shaft 32 .
- the limb 22 includes an axle clearance hole 52 extending axially therethrough at the distal end 38 .
- the axle clearance hole 52 defines a recessed portion 54 having a flat seating surface 56 .
- the axle shaft 32 extends through the axle clearance hole 52 , including the recessed portion 54 thereof, for mounting the limb 22 along the axle shaft 32 , as shown in FIG. 3 .
- an interlocking hub 58 includes an inner cavity 60 and an outer groove 62 .
- the ball bearing 48 is inserted into the inner cavity 60 .
- a spacer 64 is then secured to the interlocking hub 58 to cover the ball bearing 48 .
- the interlocking hub 58 is inserted into the recessed portion 54 .
- the elastomeric material is injected into the recessed portion 54 .
- the elastomeric material flows through hub apertures 59 and into the outer groove 62 to form the dampening member 50 .
- the outer groove 62 interlocks the dampening member 50 to retain the dampening member 50 within the recessed portion 54 .
- the dampening member 50 is molded to the limb 22 .
- the ball bearing 48 and the dampening member 50 are molded together away from the upper limb 22 and then press fit into the recessed portion 54 of the upper limb 22 .
- a plurality of axle spacers 66 are mounted along the axle shaft 32 and are positioned between the rotating member 24 and each of the upper limbs 20 , 22 .
- the axle shaft 32 includes circular segments 70 , 72 and keyed segments 74 extending therebetween.
- a step 75 is located along the keyed segment 74 .
- One of the rotating members 24 , 30 is mounted along the keyed segment 74 of the axle shaft 32 .
- the rotating member 24 , 30 has an axle hole 100 , shown in FIG. 3 , that is shaped to complement the keyed segment 74 . This allows the string 36 , which extends around the rotating member 24 , 30 , to be closer to the axle shaft 32 to allow let off.
- the ball bearings 48 are mounted along the circular segments 70 , 72 of the axle shaft 32 , also shown in FIG. 3 .
- the rotating member 24 , 30 is mounted along the non-circular segment 74 .
- a pulley 76 is mounted along the axle shaft 32 and disposed adjacent the limb 20 .
- Each pulley 76 receives the split harness 44 therealong.
- the pulley 76 includes a two-piece reinforcing ring or outer bushing 78 , a two-piece inner bushing 80 , and the dampening member 50 therebetween.
- the outer bushing 78 and the inner bushing 80 are shown as being two-piece components, one or both of the outer bushing 78 and the inner bushing 80 can be formed as a one-piece component.
- the outer bushing provides structural support for the dampening member 50 .
- the outer 78 and inner 80 bushings define an interlocking passage 82 that lockingly engages the dampening member 50 .
- the dampening member 50 is thus bonded to both the outer 78 and inner 80 bushings.
- the pulley 76 allows the axle shaft 32 to rotate freely thereabout with little or no friction.
- the pulley 76 includes the dampening member 50 positioned between one-piece outer 77 and inner bushings 79 without an interlocking passage formed therebetween.
- the pulley 76 includes the ball bearing 48 and the reinforcing ring 78 retaining the dampening member 50 therebetween.
- a elastomeric member 81 is formed completely from an elastomeric material, preferably urethane.
- the elastomeric member 81 is generally ring-shaped.
- a plurality of string post hookups 84 is located along an outer surface 86 of the cam 30 .
- the string 36 extends around the cam 30 and is secured into place by the string post hookups 84 .
- the elastomeric member 81 is mounted to the one or more of the string post hookups 84 to dampen vibrational energy in the string 36 . It will be appreciated that the pulley configurations set forth above and shown in FIGS. 15 through 19 are equally applicable to the string post hookups 84 .
- an outer ring 88 extends all along an outer periphery of the wheel 24 .
- the wheel 24 which is typically formed from a metal such as aluminum, provides structural support for the outer ring 88 , which is formed from an elastomeric material.
- the outer ring 88 includes an interlocking rim 90 interconnected to a rotating member string groove 92 for retaining the outer ring 88 to the wheel 24 .
- the outer ring 88 further includes an outer string groove 94 for receiving the string 36 . The positioning of the outer ring 88 between the wheel 24 and the string 36 decouples the wheel 24 and the string 34 , and dampens vibrational energy that is exerted upon the wheel 24 when the string 36 is released to shoot the bow 10 .
- the outer ring 88 is secured to the wheel 24 by various methods including molding, bonding, stretching, and snapping into place.
- the assembly method chosen depends in large part upon the shape of the rotating member 24 , 30 .
- the rotating member is the cam 30 , as shown in FIG. 26 , it is preferable to stretch the outer ring 88 into place.
- the outer ring 88 is adapted to fit around an outer periphery of the string post hookup 84 of the cam 30 .
- the string post hookup 84 provides structural support for the outer ring 88 .
- the outer ring 88 may be secured to the string post hookup 84 by various methods including molding, bonding, stretching, and snapping into place.
- a bushing suspension assembly includes a bushing member 97 and a dampening sleeve 98 .
- the bushing member 97 is formed from metal, plastic, or an elastomeric material, while the dampening sleeve 98 is formed from an elastomeric material.
- the elastomeric material includes, but is not limited to, urethane and polyurethane.
- the bushing suspension assembly 96 is positioned within the axle hole 100 of the cam 30 .
- the bushing suspension assembly 96 is positioned within the axle clearance hole 52 of the limb 22 .
- the bushing member 97 may be replaced with the ball bearing 48 .
- a string shock absorber assembly interconnects a first string 104 extending from the wheel 24 and a second string 106 extending from the cam 30 , as is also shown in FIG. 1 .
- the first string 104 extends from one of the rotating members 24 , 30 while the second string 106 extends from the other of the rotating members 24 , 30 .
- the string shock absorber assembly 102 includes an elongated hollow string shock absorber 108 extending between ends 110 , 112 .
- the string shock absorber 108 is formed from an elastomeric material, such as urethane or polyurethane, so as to be able to be stretched or extended from its original length in order to store and dissipate energy.
- the string shock absorber assembly 102 dampens vibrational energy created in the first 104 and second 106 strings before that vibrational energy is transferred to the wheel 24 and the cam 30 .
- a string hookup connector 114 is mounted within the string shock absorber 108 at each of its ends 110 , 112 .
- the string hookup connector 114 includes an internal channel 116 for receiving the one of the first 104 and second 106 strings.
- Each internal channel 116 has a tapered end 115 for retaining one of the first 104 and second 106 strings therein.
- Each string hookup connector 114 is formed from metal, preferably aluminum.
- the string shock absorber assembly 102 is assembled by first inserting the first string 104 one of the string hookup connectors 114 and the second string 106 into another of the string hookup connectors 114 .
- the string hookup connectors 114 with the first 104 and second 106 strings secured therewithin, are then placed in a mold, where the string shock absorber 108 is formed so as to encapsulate the string hookup connectors 114 .
- string ends 118 , 120 which extend out of the string hookup connectors 114 , are molded to the string shock absorber 108 .
- the string hookup connector 114 is adapted to interconnect the ends 110 , 112 of the respective first 104 and second 106 strings.
- the string hookup connecter 114 is molded from an elastomeric material, such as urethane or polyurethane.
- an internal suspension assembly 122 for the wheel 24 having an internal chamber 124 and an outer periphery 126 , includes a inner housing 128 , which is preferably formed from metal, generally positioned within the internal chamber 124 .
- the ball bearing 48 is housed within the hub 128 , and a plurality of dampening dowels 130 extend out from the hub 128 to the outer periphery 126 of the rotating member 24 .
- Retainer caps 132 secure the dampening dowels 130 to the wheel 24 .
- the dampening dowels 130 are formed from an elastomeric material including, but not limited to, urethane and polyurethane.
- Each of the dampening dowels 130 includes a male locking dowel base 134 and a female locking dowel base 136 .
- the dampening dowels 130 are free to actuate within the internal chamber 124 to dampen vibrational energy in the wheel 24 .
- the string 36 includes at least one over molded portion 200 for decoupling the string 36 from a string groove 201 of either the cam 30 , as shown in FIG. 43 , or the wheel 24 .
- a method for over molding the string 36 utilizes a mold, generally indicated at 202 , including upper 204 and lower 206 mold halves.
- the mold 202 may be an injection moldable mold, a cast mold, or a hand lay-up mold.
- the upper 204 and lower 206 mold halves define a mold cavity 208 therebetween.
- At least one tensioner or air cylinder 210 may be positioned adjacent at least one end of the mold 202 .
- the mold 202 also includes a plurality of spaced apart injection ports 212 .
- the method of over molding the string 36 begins with the step of placing the string 36 inside the mold 202 within the mold cavity 208 .
- a string loop 214 is located at each end of the string 36 .
- Each string loop 214 is secured to one of the tensioners 212 , which holds the string 36 in tension during the over molding process. It is, however, appreciated that the tension in the string 36 may be achieved by any of various methods known to those skilled in the art.
- the mold 202 is closed and a molding material enters the mold cavity 208 via the plurality of injection ports 212 .
- the molding material is an elastomeric material, such as polyurethane. It is, however, appreciated that the molding material may be any of various materials including, but not limited to, a foam or a gel.
- the spaced apart over molded portions 200 are formed along the string 36 .
- the string 36 is then removed from the mold 202 and installed on the archery bow 10 , as shown in FIG. 43 .
- one of the over molded portions 200 contacts the string groove 201 of the cam 30 and another of the over molded portions 200 contacts the string groove 201 of the wheel 24 (not shown).
- the over molded portions 200 which are each formed from elastomeric material, decouple the string 36 from the string groove 201 of the cam 30 and the wheel 24 .
- vibrational energy generated within the string 36 during each shot of the archery bow 10 is dampened and cannot be transferred to a limb 230 of the archery bow 10 .
- the over molded portions 200 of the string 36 protect the string 36 from de-serving issues, which in turn prolongs the life of the string 36 .
- the exact configuration of the string 36 having the over molded portions 200 may vary. It is also contemplated that in the method for over molding the string 36 , as set forth above, the particular shape of the over molded portions 200 can be controlled. As a result, the string 36 (or other archery bow component) may have different shapes in order to optimize dampening performance.
- the wheel 24 includes a body 216 , formed from a metal or plastic, defining a plurality of apertures 218 and a plurality of interlocking flow ports 220 .
- the body 216 is placed inside the mold 202 , where the molding material is introduced.
- the molding material flows through the plurality of interlocking flow ports 220 such that once the molding material is cured, the wheel 24 includes an over molding 222 that is locked into place.
- the over molding 222 extends over the string groove 215 such that when the wheel 24 is installed on the archery bow 10 , the over molding 222 decouples the string 36 from the wheel 24 to dampen vibrations generated during each shot of the archery bow 10 .
- the cam 30 includes a body 224 , which is formed from metal or a composite material, defining a plurality of interlocking ports 226 .
- the body 224 is placed in the mold 202 , where the molding material is introduced.
- the molding material flows through the plurality of interlocking ports 226 such that once the molding material is cured, the cam 30 includes an over molding 222 extending along the string groove 201 and along parts of the body 224 .
- the over molding 222 includes acoustical turbines as well as acoustical waffles each formed from an elastomeric material. Once the molding material is cured, the over molding 222 is interlocked with the plurality of interlocking ports 226 .
- each limb 230 of the archery bow 10 includes a fork, generally indicated at 232 , at a distal end adjacent the wheel 24 (or cam 30 ).
- the fork 232 includes a pair of spaced apart limb tips 234 , 236 each having a housing 238 .
- the pair of spaced apart limb tips 234 , 236 is integrally formed with the rest of the limb 230 .
- Each housing 238 includes inboard 240 and outboard 242 surfaces defining an interior 244 therebetween.
- Each cutout 250 including a central aperture 246 , an access hole 248 , and spaced apart trusses 250 are formed along each of the inboard 240 and outboard 242 surfaces and may be in any of various shapes.
- An interlocking hub 252 is disposed within the interior 244 and is aligned with the central aperture 246 .
- Each interlocking hub 252 includes a channel 254 .
- Each interlocking hub 252 also includes an axle hole 256 for receiving an axle shaft (not shown) therethrough.
- a suspension device 258 is over molded onto each housing 238 for decoupling the string and harness load from the riser 12 .
- the suspension device 258 is preferably formed from an elastomeric material, such as polyurethane. It is, however, appreciated that although the suspension device 258 has been disclosed as an elastomeric material, the suspension device 258 may be a rotary actuator, a linear actuator, a coil spring, or a leaf spring.
- the elastomeric material flows through the access hole 248 and the spaced apart trusses 250 to fill the interior 244 of each housing 238 and the channel 254 of the interlocking hub 252 for interlocking engagement therewith when cured.
- the suspension device 258 also covers the inboard 240 and outboard 242 surfaces of each housing 238 , leaving only the axle hole 256 accessible. Once the interlocking hub 252 is in such interlocking engagement with the suspension device 258 , the interlocking hub 252 is not able to move sideways, which in turn prevents any wheel and/or cam lean.
- a method for manufacturing the limb 230 including the suspension device 258 over molded onto each of the housings 238 begins with the step of providing a billet or blank, generally indicated at 260 , for use as a core member.
- the billet 260 which has a length L 1 extending between opposing first 262 and second 264 ends, may be formed from any of numerous processes including, but not limited to, protrusion, resin transfer molding, and compression molding.
- the material utilized for forming the billet 260 is preferably a composite. Other materials including, but not limited to, fiberglass, Kevlar®, spectra, and carbon may also be used to form the billet 260 .
- At least one billet portion 266 is bonded, glued, or otherwise adhered to the billet 260 at the first end 262 thereof.
- the billet portion 266 may be formed from the same material as the billet or from a material different from the billet 260 .
- the particular number of billet portions 266 bonded to the billet 260 is that which is required to form a predetermined height H 1 .
- the particular bonding location of the billet portions 266 is important for maintaining structural integrity in the finished limb 230 .
- the core has a constant cross-section throughout, which maintains the rigidity of the part.
- the billet 260 and billet portions 266 are placed under pressure at a controlled temperature, preferably using a press.
- the limb 230 is then machined to the one-piece configuration, shown in FIG. 55 , including the limb fork 232 and the pair of spaced apart housings 238 .
- One of the interlocking hubs 252 is then inserted through the access hole 248 into the interior 244 of each housing 238 .
- the limb 230 is placed in a mold, in which the interlocking hubs 252 are centered relative to the respective housings 238 .
- An elastomeric material preferably polyurethane, is then over molded onto each housing 238 to form the suspension device 258 creating a mechanical interlocking system and a chemical bond for retaining the interlocking hubs 252 in place within the interior 244 of the respective housings 238 .
- the suspension device 258 both within the interior 244 of the housing 238 and along the inboard 240 and outboard 242 surfaces thereof maintain the interlocking hub 252 in place.
- the interlocking hub 252 cannot move sideways. As a result, no wheel or cam lean occurs.
- the interlocking hub 252 can translate in one direction and the direction of movement is always in the direction of the string, harness, and/or control cable loading.
- the limb 230 is a two-piece component including a pair of limb tip housings 270 fixedly secured to each limb tip 234 , 236 .
- Each limb tip housing 270 defines an elongated slot 272 at one end and a cavity 274 at an opposing end.
- the elongated slot 272 receives one of the limb tips 234 , 236 .
- At least one bolt or fastener 276 is utilized to fixedly secure each limb tip housing 270 to one of the limb tips 234 , 236 .
- each limb tip housing 270 is counter-bored and receives an interlocking hub retainer 278 .
- the interlocking hub retainer 278 retains the interlocking hub 252 within the cavity 274 and prevents any sideways movement of the interlocking hub 252 .
- a suspension device 280 is disposed within the cavity 272 for decoupling the string and cable harness load from the riser 12 .
- the suspension device 280 is formed from an elastomeric material, preferably polyurethane.
- the interlocking hub retainer 278 and the interlocking hub 252 are placed inside the cavity 274 of one of the limb tip housings 270 .
- the limb tip housing 270 is then placed inside a mold.
- the suspension device 280 is over molded onto the cavity 274 of the limb tip housing 270 , where upon curing it interlockingly engages the interlocking hub 252 .
- the limb tip housing 270 is fixedly secured to one of the limb tips 234 , 236 via the bolts 276 .
- a suspension device 282 is disposed between the elongated slot 272 of the limb tip housing 270 and a main limb body 284 for decoupling the limb tip housing 270 from a main limb body 284 .
- the limb tip housing 270 is fixedly secured to the main limb body 284 via a plurality of fasteners (not shown).
- the suspension device 282 which is generally U-shaped, dampens out vibrations generated by the string 36 and cable and harness system 283 during each shot of the archery bow 10 . It is appreciated that the particular shape of the suspension device 282 may vary.
- the suspension device 282 may be formed from any of numerous dampening materials. In a preferred embodiment, the suspension device 282 is formed from an elastomeric material.
- the riser 12 includes a suspension housing 286 defining a cavity 288 .
- the suspension housing 286 is generally cylindrical. It is, however, appreciated that the particular shape of the suspension housing 286 may vary.
- the suspension housing 286 includes a plurality of interlocking openings 290 therealong. One end of a cable guard arm 292 is disposed within the cavity 288 .
- a suspension device 294 is disposed within the suspension housing 286 between the suspension housing 286 and the cable guard 292 for decoupling the cable guard 292 from the riser 12 .
- the suspension device 294 dampens vibrational energy generated by at least one of the string 36 and the cable and harness system 283 .
- the suspension device 294 is retained within the suspension housing 286 by a mechanical interlock achieved by the suspension device 294 extending through the plurality of interlocking openings 290 . It is appreciated that the suspension device 294 may also be glued, bonded, or otherwise adhered within the suspension housing 286 formed in the riser 12 .
- a cable guard slide 296 is disposed along the cable guard arm 292 .
- the cable guard slide 296 includes an elongated bore 298 for receiving the cable guard arm 292 therethrough.
- a bushing 300 is disposed within the elongated bore 298 .
- a suspension device 302 is disposed within the elongated bore 298 and completely surrounds the cable guard arm 292 for decoupling the cable guard arm 292 from the cable guard slide 296 .
- the cable guard arm 292 includes an inner elongated core 304 and an outer elongated core 306 .
- Each of the inner 304 and outer 306 elongated cores is formed from a solid, non-elastomeric material.
- a suspension device 308 is disposed between the inner 304 and outer 306 elongated cores to decouple the inner elongated core 304 from the outer elongated core 306 , which in turn decouples the cable and harness system 283 from the riser 12 .
- the suspension device 308 is preferably formed from an elastomeric material. It is, however, appreciated that the suspension device 308 may be formed from any of numerous dampening materials.
- a roller or cable arm extends between the riser 12 and the split harness and control cable system.
- the cable arm 310 includes a main body portion 312 and a pair of spaced apart housings 314 extending out therefrom. Each of the spaced apart housings 314 defines a bore 316 .
- a suspension device 318 is disposed within the bore 316 of each housing 314 . Each suspension device 318 includes an aperture 320 extending therethrough.
- the suspension devices 318 are preferably formed from an elastomeric material.
- a pulley 322 is disposed between the suspension devices 318 for receiving a portion of the cable and harness system 283 therearound.
- the pulley 322 which is preferably formed from an elastomeric material, includes an elongated bore 324 extending therethrough.
- An axle shaft 326 extends through the apertures 320 and the elongated bore 322 to retain the pulley 322 in place between the suspension devices 318 .
- the suspension devices 318 decouple the axle shaft 326 as well as the cable and harness system 283 from the cable arm 310 such that at least a portion of the load from the cable and harness system is dampened by the suspension devices 318 .
- a suspension device is disposed between the axle shaft 326 and the limb 230 in order to decouple the string 36 from the limb 230 .
- the suspension device 330 includes a ball bearing 332 encased within a suspension housing 334 .
- the axle shaft 326 is disposed within the ball bearing 332 and suspension housing 334 of the suspension device 330 .
- the axle shaft 326 does not, however, reside within the limb 230 .
- a fastener 336 such as a fastener or e-clip, secures a pulley 338 to the limb 230 adjacent the suspension housing 334 .
- the axle shaft 326 and with the wheel 24 or the cam 30 , is decoupled from the limb 230 .
- the axle shaft 326 passes through the limb 230 .
- the limb 230 includes a clearance hole 339 to allow the axle shaft 326 to float therwithin.
- the suspension device 330 is also disposed along the axle shaft 326 and includes the ball bearing 332 encased within the suspension housing 334 . As a result, actuation of the suspension device 330 is not restricted.
- each limb 230 includes an upper limb portion 340 coupled to the axle shaft 326 , and a lower limb portion 342 coupled to the limb pocket 16 .
- a rotating member i.e., the wheel 24 or the cam 30 is disposed along the axle shaft 326 .
- a suspension device 344 is disposed between and coupled to the upper 340 and lower 342 limb portions.
- the suspension device 344 is preferably formed from an elastomeric material. It is, however, appreciated that the suspension device 344 may be formed from any of numerous dampening materials.
- the suspension device 344 decouples the upper limb portion 340 from the lower limb portion 342 for decoupling the string load or cable and harness system load from the riser 12 .
Abstract
A suspension system is provided for dampening vibrational energy and noise in an archery bow. The suspension system includes an axle shaft. A rotating member is rotatably coupled to the axle shaft and defines a string groove. A string partially extends along the string groove. The string has an over molded portion contacting the string groove for decoupling the string from the string groove to dampen vibrational energy and noise generated during each shot of the archery bow.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/361,333, filed on Feb. 10, 2003 and entitled “Bow Suspension System”, which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/355,574, filed Feb. 8, 2002; U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/355,582, filed Feb. 8, 2002; U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/355,583, filed Feb. 8, 2002; U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/418,092, filed Oct. 11, 2002; U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/418,098, filed Oct. 11, 2002; U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/425,899, filed Nov. 13, 2002; and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/425,960, filed Nov. 13, 2002.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- This invention relates to an archery bow. More particularly, the invention relates to a suspension system for dampening vibrational energy and noise in an archery bow.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- Archery bows are typically utilized by individuals participating in hunting or recreational archery. In each of these activities, the ability to control the exact location to which the arrow is shot is essential. At the same time, the drawing back of the string and subsequent release creates vibrational energy throughout the bow, especially in the strings and the limbs. This vibrational energy substantially interferes with one's ability to control the bow. Thus, a system that reduces vibrational energy is a highly desirable feature for a bow.
- Various systems have been developed in an attempt to reduce or eliminate vibrations throughout a compound bow. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,415,780 to Proctor is directed to a bearing system for a compound bow. The bearing system includes a sealed ball bearing assembly and a bearing support element. A cam is mounted along an axle. The axle is supported on opposite sides of the cam by the ball bearing assembly. The ball bearing assemblies are received in bores formed in limb tip overlays. The limb tip overlays are secured to limb tips by an adhesive. Alternatively, a hole in the limb blank may be created to support the ball bearing assemblies. The ball bearing assemblies reduce rotational friction and enhance lateral stability of the cam.
- In addition, Untied States Patent Application Publication Number 2002/0166550 discloses an archery bow cam including a dead blow assembly fitted within a coil spring. The dead blow assembly, which includes a dead blow element and two damping elements, dampens cam vibrations at the end of a bow shot.
- According to one aspect of the invention, a suspension system is provided for dampening vibrational energy and noise in an archery bow. The suspension system includes an axle shaft. A rotating member is rotatably coupled to the axle shaft and defines a string groove. A string partially extends along the string groove. The string has an over molded portion contacting the string groove for decoupling the string from the string groove to dampen vibrational energy and noise generated during each shot of the archery bow.
- Advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bow; -
FIG. 2 is a fragmentary perspective view of the bow including a suspension system according to the invention; -
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a limb including an axle clearance hole extending therethrough; -
FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an interlocking hub, a ball bearing, a dampening material for positioning within the limb; -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the limb having the interlocking hub and the ball bearing positioned within a recessed portion; -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the limb showing a spacer covering the ball bearing; -
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the suspension system according to the invention; -
FIG. 10 is a sectional view of a ball bearing having a dampening material molded thereto; -
FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the ball bearing and the dampening material; -
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an axle shaft of the suspension system; -
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the axle shaft including the ball bearing with the dampening material molded thereto; -
FIG. 14 is a partially cut away view of the bow having pulleys mounted along the axle shaft; -
FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of the pulley including a two-part outer bushing and a two-part inner bushing; -
FIG. 16 is a sectional view of the pulley; -
FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of the pulley including one-piece outer and inner bushings; -
FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the pulley ofFIG. 17 ; -
FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the pulley including a ball bearing; -
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an elastomeric member; -
FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of a rotating member, a plurality of string post hookups located on the rotating member, and elastomeric members; -
FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the elastomeric member coupled to one of the string post hookups; -
FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of an outer ring formed from a dampening material and a wheel; -
FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the outer ring molded to the wheel; -
FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 25-25 ofFIG. 24 ; -
FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of the outer ring for stretching around the cam; -
FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the rotating member and the outer ring coupled to the string post hookups; -
FIG. 28 is an exploded perspective view of a bushing assembly; -
FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the bushing assembly mounted along the axle shaft within the cam; -
FIG. 30 is a sectional view of the cam including two of the bushing assemblies housed therewithin; -
FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the bushing assembly positioned within an axle clearance hole of the limb; -
FIG. 32 is an isolated perspective view of a string shock absorber assembly interconnecting first and second strings; -
FIG. 33 is an exploded perspective view of the string shock absorber assembly; -
FIG. 34 is a cut away view of the shock absorber assembly; -
FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a string end connector interconnecting first and second strings; -
FIG. 36 is a cut away view of the wheel including an internal suspension assembly; -
FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 37-37 inFIG. 36 ; -
FIG. 38 is a partially exploded view of the cross-sectional view inFIG. 37 ; -
FIG. 39 is an isolated view of a dampening dowel of the internal suspension assembly; -
FIG. 40 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention including a string having a plurality of over molded portions; -
FIG. 41 is a front, elevational view of a mold for over molding the string with the plurality of over molded portions; -
FIG. 42 is a perspective view of the string positioned inside the mold; -
FIG. 43 is a fragmentary, perspective view of the string installed along a cam of an archery bow wherein one of the over molded portions is disposed between the string and a string groove of the cam; -
FIG. 44 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention including a wheel having a body; -
FIG. 45 is a perspective view of the wheel including an over molding molded to the body; -
FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 46-46 ofFIG. 45 including a string groove of the wheel covered by the over molding; -
FIG. 47 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention including a cam having a body; -
FIG. 48 is a side view of the cam including an over molding secured to the body; -
FIG. 49 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 49-49 inFIG. 48 including a string groove of the cam covered by the over molding; -
FIG. 50 is a fragmentary, perspective view of one limb of an archery bow including a fork at a distal end; -
FIG. 51 is a partially exploded, fragmentary perspective view of the limb fork including a pair of spaced apart housings for receiving an interlocking hub; -
FIG. 52 is a fragmentary, perspective view of the limb fork including a suspension device over molded onto outboard and inboard surfaces of the housing for interlocking engagement with the interlocking hub; -
FIG. 53 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 53-53 inFIG. 52 ; -
FIG. 54 is a perspective view of a billet, including at least one billet portion secured thereto, utilized for machining a limb; -
FIG. 55 is a perspective view of the billet, including the at least one billet portion., with the machined limb formed therefrom shown in phantom; -
FIG. 56 is an exploded, perspective view of the attachment between a limb tip housing and a limb tip according to another embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 57 is an exploded, perspective view of the limb tip housing including an interlocking hub retainer retaining an interlocking hub in place; -
FIG. 58 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention including a suspension device disposed between a limb tip housing and a limb; -
FIG. 59 is an exploded, perspective view of the suspension device for positioning between the limb tip housing and the limb; -
FIG. 60 is a perspective view of a riser including a suspension housing according to another embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 61 is a fragmentary, perspective view of an archery bow including a suspension device disposed within the suspension housing for decoupling the riser from a cable guard; -
FIG. 62 is a fragmentary, rear perspective view of an archery bow including a suspension device according to another embodiment of the invention positioned inside a cable guard slide; -
FIG. 63 is a perspective view of the cable guard slide including the suspension device decoupling the cable guard slide from the cable guard arm; -
FIG. 64 is a fragmentary, perspective view of an archery bow according to another embodiment of the invention including a cable guard arm; -
FIG. 65 is a an exploded, perspective view of the cable guard arm including a suspension device disposed between elongated inner and outer cores; -
FIG. 66 is a fragmentary, perspective view of an archery bow according to another embodiment of the invention including a roller arm extending out from a riser; -
FIG. 67 is a exploded, perspective view of the roller arm including a pulley disposed between a pair of suspension devices; -
FIG. 68 is a perspective view of a suspension device decoupling a limb from an axle shaft of an archery bow according to another embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 69 is a cross-sectional view of the suspension device decoupling the limb from the axle shaft; -
FIG. 70 is a perspective view of a limb rotatably mounted along an axle shaft adjacent a suspension device according to another embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 71 is a cross-sectional view of the limb including a clearance hole for allowing relative shifting of a ; and -
FIG. 72 is a fragmentary, perspective view of an archery bow according to another embodiment of the invention including a suspension device disposed between upper and lower limb portions. - Referring to
FIG. 1 , an archery bow, generally shown at 10, includes a handle orriser 12, agrip 14, and limb pockets 16, 18 secured to theriser 12. Although a compound bow is shown inFIG. 1 , it is contemplated that the following description is equally applicable to other bows including, but not limited to, cross bows and recurve bows. Thebow 10 includes a pair ofupper limbs limb pocket 16 and a rotating member orwheel 24. A pair oflower limbs limb pocket 18 and a rotating member orcam 30. Thewheel 24 and thecam 30 are each rotatably mounted on arespective axle shaft axle shaft 32 extends between theupper limbs axle shaft 34 extends between thelower limbs - A
string 36 extends from adistal end 38 of theupper limbs distal end 40 of thelower limbs string 36 extends around thewheel 24 and the other end of thestring 36 extends around thecam 30. Adrawstring portion 35 of thestring 36 is drawn away from theriser 10, which causes the distal ends 36, 40 of thelimbs limbs drawstring portion 35 of thestring 36 is released to shoot anarrow 33. Aregular harness 42 and asplit harness 44 also extend between thewheel 24 and thecam 30. Acable guard rod 46 extends between theriser 12 and thestring 36. - Referring to
FIGS. 2 and 3 , a suspension system, generally shown at 46, for thebow 10 includes one of theupper limbs 22, theaxle shaft 32, a bushing orball bearing 48 mounted along theaxle shaft 32, and a dampeningmember 50 extending outwardly from thebushing 48 and positioned between thebushing 48 and theupper limb 22. It will be appreciated that although thesuspension system 46 is shown with regards to one of theupper limbs 22, thesuspension system 46 applies equally to the otherupper limb 20 and thelower limbs suspension system 46 is also rigid enough to support thebow 10. As a result, thesuspension system 46 is able to store kinetic energy, to dissipate shock, and to increase bow speed. - The dampening
member 50 is an elastomeric material including thermoplastic elastomers. In a preferred embodiment, the dampeningmember 50 is formed from urethane. The dampeningmember 50 may also be a spring, a spring washer, or an incompressible fluid. The dampeningmember 50 decouples theaxle shaft 32 from theupper limb 22 so that theaxle shaft 32 floats freely relative thereto. In addition, the dampeningmember 50 absorbs vibrational energy exerted through theaxle shaft 32. - Referring to
FIG. 4 , thelimb 22 includes anaxle clearance hole 52 extending axially therethrough at thedistal end 38. Theaxle clearance hole 52 defines a recessedportion 54 having aflat seating surface 56. Theaxle shaft 32 extends through theaxle clearance hole 52, including the recessedportion 54 thereof, for mounting thelimb 22 along theaxle shaft 32, as shown inFIG. 3 . - The placement of the dampening
member 50 and theball bearing 48 within the recessedportion 54 can be accomplished in different ways. Referring toFIGS. 5 through 8 , an interlockinghub 58 includes aninner cavity 60 and anouter groove 62. Theball bearing 48 is inserted into theinner cavity 60. Aspacer 64 is then secured to the interlockinghub 58 to cover theball bearing 48. The interlockinghub 58 is inserted into the recessedportion 54. Finally, the elastomeric material is injected into the recessedportion 54. The elastomeric material flows throughhub apertures 59 and into theouter groove 62 to form the dampeningmember 50. Theouter groove 62 interlocks the dampeningmember 50 to retain the dampeningmember 50 within the recessedportion 54. In addition, the dampeningmember 50 is molded to thelimb 22. - Referring to
FIGS. 9 through 11 , theball bearing 48 and the dampeningmember 50 are molded together away from theupper limb 22 and then press fit into the recessedportion 54 of theupper limb 22. A plurality ofaxle spacers 66 are mounted along theaxle shaft 32 and are positioned between the rotatingmember 24 and each of theupper limbs - Referring to
FIGS. 12 and 13 , theaxle shaft 32 includescircular segments segments 74 extending therebetween. Astep 75 is located along the keyedsegment 74. One of therotating members segment 74 of theaxle shaft 32. The rotatingmember FIG. 3 , that is shaped to complement the keyedsegment 74. This allows thestring 36, which extends around the rotatingmember axle shaft 32 to allow let off. Theball bearings 48 are mounted along thecircular segments axle shaft 32, also shown inFIG. 3 . The rotatingmember non-circular segment 74. - Referring to
FIGS. 14 through 20 , apulley 76 is mounted along theaxle shaft 32 and disposed adjacent thelimb 20. Eachpulley 76 receives thesplit harness 44 therealong. Thepulley 76 includes a two-piece reinforcing ring orouter bushing 78, a two-pieceinner bushing 80, and the dampeningmember 50 therebetween. It will be appreciated that although theouter bushing 78 and theinner bushing 80 are shown as being two-piece components, one or both of theouter bushing 78 and theinner bushing 80 can be formed as a one-piece component. The outer bushing provides structural support for the dampeningmember 50. The outer 78 and inner 80 bushings define aninterlocking passage 82 that lockingly engages the dampeningmember 50. The dampeningmember 50 is thus bonded to both the outer 78 and inner 80 bushings. Thepulley 76 allows theaxle shaft 32 to rotate freely thereabout with little or no friction. - Referring specifically to
FIGS. 17 and 18 , thepulley 76 includes the dampeningmember 50 positioned between one-piece outer 77 andinner bushings 79 without an interlocking passage formed therebetween. Referring toFIG. 19 , thepulley 76 includes theball bearing 48 and the reinforcingring 78 retaining the dampeningmember 50 therebetween. - Referring to
FIG. 20 , aelastomeric member 81 is formed completely from an elastomeric material, preferably urethane. Theelastomeric member 81 is generally ring-shaped. Referring toFIGS. 21 and 22 , a plurality ofstring post hookups 84 is located along anouter surface 86 of thecam 30. Thestring 36 extends around thecam 30 and is secured into place by thestring post hookups 84. Theelastomeric member 81 is mounted to the one or more of thestring post hookups 84 to dampen vibrational energy in thestring 36. It will be appreciated that the pulley configurations set forth above and shown inFIGS. 15 through 19 are equally applicable to thestring post hookups 84. - Referring to
FIGS. 23 through 26 , anouter ring 88 extends all along an outer periphery of thewheel 24. Thewheel 24, which is typically formed from a metal such as aluminum, provides structural support for theouter ring 88, which is formed from an elastomeric material. Theouter ring 88 includes an interlockingrim 90 interconnected to a rotatingmember string groove 92 for retaining theouter ring 88 to thewheel 24. Theouter ring 88 further includes anouter string groove 94 for receiving thestring 36. The positioning of theouter ring 88 between thewheel 24 and thestring 36 decouples thewheel 24 and thestring 34, and dampens vibrational energy that is exerted upon thewheel 24 when thestring 36 is released to shoot thebow 10. - The
outer ring 88 is secured to thewheel 24 by various methods including molding, bonding, stretching, and snapping into place. The assembly method chosen depends in large part upon the shape of the rotatingmember cam 30, as shown inFIG. 26 , it is preferable to stretch theouter ring 88 into place. - Referring to
FIG. 27 , theouter ring 88 is adapted to fit around an outer periphery of thestring post hookup 84 of thecam 30. Thestring post hookup 84 provides structural support for theouter ring 88. Theouter ring 88 may be secured to thestring post hookup 84 by various methods including molding, bonding, stretching, and snapping into place. - Referring to
FIGS. 28 through 31 , a bushing suspension assembly, generally shown at 96, includes abushing member 97 and a dampeningsleeve 98. Thebushing member 97 is formed from metal, plastic, or an elastomeric material, while the dampeningsleeve 98 is formed from an elastomeric material. The elastomeric material includes, but is not limited to, urethane and polyurethane. Referring specifically toFIGS. 29 and 30 , thebushing suspension assembly 96 is positioned within the axle hole 100 of thecam 30. Referring toFIG. 31 , thebushing suspension assembly 96 is positioned within theaxle clearance hole 52 of thelimb 22. Thebushing member 97 may be replaced with theball bearing 48. - Referring to
FIGS. 32 through 34 , a string shock absorber assembly, generally shown at 102, interconnects afirst string 104 extending from thewheel 24 and asecond string 106 extending from thecam 30, as is also shown inFIG. 1 . Thefirst string 104 extends from one of therotating members second string 106 extends from the other of therotating members shock absorber assembly 102 includes an elongated hollowstring shock absorber 108 extending betweenends string shock absorber 108 is formed from an elastomeric material, such as urethane or polyurethane, so as to be able to be stretched or extended from its original length in order to store and dissipate energy. The stringshock absorber assembly 102 dampens vibrational energy created in the first 104 and second 106 strings before that vibrational energy is transferred to thewheel 24 and thecam 30. - A
string hookup connector 114 is mounted within thestring shock absorber 108 at each of itsends string hookup connector 114 includes aninternal channel 116 for receiving the one of the first 104 and second 106 strings. Eachinternal channel 116 has atapered end 115 for retaining one of the first 104 and second 106 strings therein. Eachstring hookup connector 114 is formed from metal, preferably aluminum. - The string
shock absorber assembly 102 is assembled by first inserting thefirst string 104 one of thestring hookup connectors 114 and thesecond string 106 into another of thestring hookup connectors 114. Thestring hookup connectors 114, with the first 104 and second 106 strings secured therewithin, are then placed in a mold, where thestring shock absorber 108 is formed so as to encapsulate thestring hookup connectors 114. During the molding process, string ends 118, 120, which extend out of thestring hookup connectors 114, are molded to thestring shock absorber 108. - Referring to
FIG. 35 , thestring hookup connector 114 is adapted to interconnect theends string hookup connecter 114 is molded from an elastomeric material, such as urethane or polyurethane. - Referring to
FIGS. 36 through 39 , aninternal suspension assembly 122 for thewheel 24, having aninternal chamber 124 and anouter periphery 126, includes ainner housing 128, which is preferably formed from metal, generally positioned within theinternal chamber 124. Theball bearing 48 is housed within thehub 128, and a plurality of dampeningdowels 130 extend out from thehub 128 to theouter periphery 126 of the rotatingmember 24. Retainer caps 132 secure the dampeningdowels 130 to thewheel 24. The dampeningdowels 130 are formed from an elastomeric material including, but not limited to, urethane and polyurethane. Each of the dampeningdowels 130 includes a malelocking dowel base 134 and a femalelocking dowel base 136. The dampeningdowels 130 are free to actuate within theinternal chamber 124 to dampen vibrational energy in thewheel 24. - It is intended that all of the elements described above and shown in the
FIGS. 1 through 39 are incorporated into a single bow to form a complete suspension system. The suspension system retains energy in the source, that is, thestring 36 rather than throughout thebow 10. This retained energy is transferred to thearrow 33. - Referring to
FIGS. 40 through 42 , according to another embodiment of the invention, thestring 36 includes at least one over moldedportion 200 for decoupling thestring 36 from astring groove 201 of either thecam 30, as shown inFIG. 43 , or thewheel 24. A method for over molding thestring 36 utilizes a mold, generally indicated at 202, including upper 204 and lower 206 mold halves. For exemplary purposes, themold 202 may be an injection moldable mold, a cast mold, or a hand lay-up mold. The upper 204 and lower 206 mold halves define amold cavity 208 therebetween. At least one tensioner orair cylinder 210 may be positioned adjacent at least one end of themold 202. Themold 202 also includes a plurality of spaced apartinjection ports 212. - The method of over molding the
string 36 begins with the step of placing thestring 36 inside themold 202 within themold cavity 208. Astring loop 214 is located at each end of thestring 36. Eachstring loop 214 is secured to one of thetensioners 212, which holds thestring 36 in tension during the over molding process. It is, however, appreciated that the tension in thestring 36 may be achieved by any of various methods known to those skilled in the art. Once thestring 36 is in tension, themold 202 is closed and a molding material enters themold cavity 208 via the plurality ofinjection ports 212. In a preferred embodiment, the molding material is an elastomeric material, such as polyurethane. It is, however, appreciated that the molding material may be any of various materials including, but not limited to, a foam or a gel. - Once the elastomeric material is cured, the spaced apart over molded
portions 200 are formed along thestring 36. Thestring 36 is then removed from themold 202 and installed on thearchery bow 10, as shown inFIG. 43 . Once installed, one of the over moldedportions 200 contacts thestring groove 201 of thecam 30 and another of the over moldedportions 200 contacts thestring groove 201 of the wheel 24 (not shown). Thus, the over moldedportions 200, which are each formed from elastomeric material, decouple thestring 36 from thestring groove 201 of thecam 30 and thewheel 24. As a result, vibrational energy generated within thestring 36 during each shot of thearchery bow 10 is dampened and cannot be transferred to alimb 230 of thearchery bow 10. Further, the over moldedportions 200 of thestring 36 protect thestring 36 from de-serving issues, which in turn prolongs the life of thestring 36. - It is contemplated that the exact configuration of the
string 36 having the over moldedportions 200 may vary. It is also contemplated that in the method for over molding thestring 36, as set forth above, the particular shape of the over moldedportions 200 can be controlled. As a result, the string 36 (or other archery bow component) may have different shapes in order to optimize dampening performance. - It is further contemplated that the above-mentioned method for over molding may be utilized to over mold other archery bow components including, but not limited to, the
wheel 24, shown inFIGS. 44 through 46 , and thecam 30, shown inFIGS. 47 through 49 . Referring toFIGS. 44 through 46 , thewheel 24 includes abody 216, formed from a metal or plastic, defining a plurality ofapertures 218 and a plurality of interlockingflow ports 220. Thebody 216 is placed inside themold 202, where the molding material is introduced. The molding material flows through the plurality of interlockingflow ports 220 such that once the molding material is cured, thewheel 24 includes an overmolding 222 that is locked into place. The overmolding 222 extends over thestring groove 215 such that when thewheel 24 is installed on thearchery bow 10, the overmolding 222 decouples thestring 36 from thewheel 24 to dampen vibrations generated during each shot of thearchery bow 10. - Referring to
FIGS. 47 through 49 , thecam 30 includes abody 224, which is formed from metal or a composite material, defining a plurality of interlockingports 226. Thebody 224 is placed in themold 202, where the molding material is introduced. The molding material flows through the plurality of interlockingports 226 such that once the molding material is cured, thecam 30 includes an overmolding 222 extending along thestring groove 201 and along parts of thebody 224. The overmolding 222 includes acoustical turbines as well as acoustical waffles each formed from an elastomeric material. Once the molding material is cured, the overmolding 222 is interlocked with the plurality of interlockingports 226. - Referring to
FIGS. 50 and 51 , according to another embodiment of the invention, eachlimb 230 of thearchery bow 10 includes a fork, generally indicated at 232, at a distal end adjacent the wheel 24 (or cam 30). Thefork 232 includes a pair of spaced apartlimb tips housing 238. Preferably, the pair of spaced apartlimb tips limb 230. Eachhousing 238 includes inboard 240 and outboard 242 surfaces defining an interior 244 therebetween. Multiple cutouts, including acentral aperture 246, anaccess hole 248, and spaced apart trusses 250 are formed along each of the inboard 240 and outboard 242 surfaces and may be in any of various shapes. An interlockinghub 252 is disposed within the interior 244 and is aligned with thecentral aperture 246. Each interlockinghub 252 includes achannel 254. Each interlockinghub 252 also includes anaxle hole 256 for receiving an axle shaft (not shown) therethrough. - Referring to
FIGS. 52 and 53 , asuspension device 258 is over molded onto eachhousing 238 for decoupling the string and harness load from theriser 12. Thesuspension device 258 is preferably formed from an elastomeric material, such as polyurethane. It is, however, appreciated that although thesuspension device 258 has been disclosed as an elastomeric material, thesuspension device 258 may be a rotary actuator, a linear actuator, a coil spring, or a leaf spring. - The elastomeric material flows through the
access hole 248 and the spaced apart trusses 250 to fill theinterior 244 of eachhousing 238 and thechannel 254 of the interlockinghub 252 for interlocking engagement therewith when cured. Thesuspension device 258 also covers the inboard 240 and outboard 242 surfaces of eachhousing 238, leaving only theaxle hole 256 accessible. Once the interlockinghub 252 is in such interlocking engagement with thesuspension device 258, the interlockinghub 252 is not able to move sideways, which in turn prevents any wheel and/or cam lean. - Referring to
FIGS. 54 and 55 , a method for manufacturing thelimb 230 including thesuspension device 258 over molded onto each of thehousings 238 begins with the step of providing a billet or blank, generally indicated at 260, for use as a core member. Thebillet 260, which has a length L1 extending between opposing first 262 and second 264 ends, may be formed from any of numerous processes including, but not limited to, protrusion, resin transfer molding, and compression molding. The material utilized for forming thebillet 260 is preferably a composite. Other materials including, but not limited to, fiberglass, Kevlar®, spectra, and carbon may also be used to form thebillet 260. At least onebillet portion 266 is bonded, glued, or otherwise adhered to thebillet 260 at thefirst end 262 thereof. Thebillet portion 266 may be formed from the same material as the billet or from a material different from thebillet 260. The particular number ofbillet portions 266 bonded to thebillet 260 is that which is required to form a predetermined height H1. Moreover, the particular bonding location of thebillet portions 266 is important for maintaining structural integrity in thefinished limb 230. Further, the core has a constant cross-section throughout, which maintains the rigidity of the part. Thebillet 260 andbillet portions 266 are placed under pressure at a controlled temperature, preferably using a press. Thelimb 230 is then machined to the one-piece configuration, shown inFIG. 55 , including thelimb fork 232 and the pair of spaced apart housings 238. - One of the interlocking
hubs 252 is then inserted through theaccess hole 248 into theinterior 244 of eachhousing 238. Thelimb 230 is placed in a mold, in which the interlockinghubs 252 are centered relative to therespective housings 238. An elastomeric material, preferably polyurethane, is then over molded onto eachhousing 238 to form thesuspension device 258 creating a mechanical interlocking system and a chemical bond for retaining the interlockinghubs 252 in place within theinterior 244 of therespective housings 238. Thesuspension device 258 both within theinterior 244 of thehousing 238 and along the inboard 240 and outboard 242 surfaces thereof maintain the interlockinghub 252 in place. Once the interlockinghub 252 is retained as such, the interlockinghub 252 cannot move sideways. As a result, no wheel or cam lean occurs. In addition, the interlockinghub 252 can translate in one direction and the direction of movement is always in the direction of the string, harness, and/or control cable loading. - Referring to
FIGS. 56 and 57 , according to another embodiment of the invention, thelimb 230 is a two-piece component including a pair oflimb tip housings 270 fixedly secured to eachlimb tip limb tip housing 270 defines anelongated slot 272 at one end and acavity 274 at an opposing end. Theelongated slot 272 receives one of thelimb tips fastener 276 is utilized to fixedly secure eachlimb tip housing 270 to one of thelimb tips - The
cavity 274 of eachlimb tip housing 270 is counter-bored and receives an interlockinghub retainer 278. The interlockinghub retainer 278 retains the interlockinghub 252 within thecavity 274 and prevents any sideways movement of the interlockinghub 252. Asuspension device 280 is disposed within thecavity 272 for decoupling the string and cable harness load from theriser 12. Thesuspension device 280 is formed from an elastomeric material, preferably polyurethane. - In a method for manufacturing the
limb 230 according to the present embodiment, the interlockinghub retainer 278 and the interlockinghub 252 are placed inside thecavity 274 of one of thelimb tip housings 270. Thelimb tip housing 270 is then placed inside a mold. Thesuspension device 280 is over molded onto thecavity 274 of thelimb tip housing 270, where upon curing it interlockingly engages the interlockinghub 252. Finally, thelimb tip housing 270 is fixedly secured to one of thelimb tips bolts 276. - Referring to
FIGS. 58 and 59 , according to another embodiment of the invention, asuspension device 282 is disposed between theelongated slot 272 of thelimb tip housing 270 and amain limb body 284 for decoupling thelimb tip housing 270 from amain limb body 284. Thelimb tip housing 270 is fixedly secured to themain limb body 284 via a plurality of fasteners (not shown). Thesuspension device 282, which is generally U-shaped, dampens out vibrations generated by thestring 36 and cable andharness system 283 during each shot of thearchery bow 10. It is appreciated that the particular shape of thesuspension device 282 may vary. Thesuspension device 282 may be formed from any of numerous dampening materials. In a preferred embodiment, thesuspension device 282 is formed from an elastomeric material. - Referring to
FIGS. 60 and 61 , according to another embodiment of the invention, theriser 12 includes asuspension housing 286 defining acavity 288. In a preferred embodiment, thesuspension housing 286 is generally cylindrical. It is, however, appreciated that the particular shape of thesuspension housing 286 may vary. Thesuspension housing 286 includes a plurality of interlockingopenings 290 therealong. One end of acable guard arm 292 is disposed within thecavity 288. Asuspension device 294 is disposed within thesuspension housing 286 between thesuspension housing 286 and thecable guard 292 for decoupling thecable guard 292 from theriser 12. Thus, thesuspension device 294 dampens vibrational energy generated by at least one of thestring 36 and the cable andharness system 283. Thesuspension device 294 is retained within thesuspension housing 286 by a mechanical interlock achieved by thesuspension device 294 extending through the plurality of interlockingopenings 290. It is appreciated that thesuspension device 294 may also be glued, bonded, or otherwise adhered within thesuspension housing 286 formed in theriser 12. - Referring to
FIGS. 62 and 63 , acable guard slide 296 is disposed along thecable guard arm 292. Thecable guard slide 296 includes anelongated bore 298 for receiving thecable guard arm 292 therethrough. Abushing 300 is disposed within theelongated bore 298. Asuspension device 302 is disposed within theelongated bore 298 and completely surrounds thecable guard arm 292 for decoupling thecable guard arm 292 from thecable guard slide 296. - Referring to
FIGS. 64 and 65 , according to another embodiment of the invention, thecable guard arm 292 includes an innerelongated core 304 and an outerelongated core 306. Each of the inner 304 and outer 306 elongated cores is formed from a solid, non-elastomeric material. Asuspension device 308 is disposed between the inner 304 and outer 306 elongated cores to decouple the innerelongated core 304 from the outerelongated core 306, which in turn decouples the cable andharness system 283 from theriser 12. Thesuspension device 308 is preferably formed from an elastomeric material. It is, however, appreciated that thesuspension device 308 may be formed from any of numerous dampening materials. - Referring to
FIGS. 66 and 67 , a roller or cable arm, generally indicated at 310, extends between theriser 12 and the split harness and control cable system. Thecable arm 310 includes amain body portion 312 and a pair of spaced aparthousings 314 extending out therefrom. Each of the spaced aparthousings 314 defines abore 316. Asuspension device 318 is disposed within thebore 316 of eachhousing 314. Eachsuspension device 318 includes anaperture 320 extending therethrough. Thesuspension devices 318 are preferably formed from an elastomeric material. Apulley 322 is disposed between thesuspension devices 318 for receiving a portion of the cable andharness system 283 therearound. Thepulley 322, which is preferably formed from an elastomeric material, includes anelongated bore 324 extending therethrough. Anaxle shaft 326 extends through theapertures 320 and theelongated bore 322 to retain thepulley 322 in place between thesuspension devices 318. Thesuspension devices 318 decouple theaxle shaft 326 as well as the cable andharness system 283 from thecable arm 310 such that at least a portion of the load from the cable and harness system is dampened by thesuspension devices 318. - Referring to
FIGS. 68 and 69 , according to another embodiment of the invention, a suspension device, generally indicated at 330, is disposed between theaxle shaft 326 and thelimb 230 in order to decouple thestring 36 from thelimb 230. Thesuspension device 330 includes aball bearing 332 encased within asuspension housing 334. Theaxle shaft 326 is disposed within theball bearing 332 andsuspension housing 334 of thesuspension device 330. Theaxle shaft 326 does not, however, reside within thelimb 230. Instead, afastener 336, such as a fastener or e-clip, secures a pulley 338 to thelimb 230 adjacent thesuspension housing 334. As a result, theaxle shaft 326, and with thewheel 24 or thecam 30, is decoupled from thelimb 230. - Referring to
FIGS. 70 and 71 , in an alternative embodiment, theaxle shaft 326 passes through thelimb 230. Thelimb 230 includes aclearance hole 339 to allow theaxle shaft 326 to float therwithin. Thesuspension device 330 is also disposed along theaxle shaft 326 and includes theball bearing 332 encased within thesuspension housing 334. As a result, actuation of thesuspension device 330 is not restricted. - Referring to
FIG. 72 , in still another embodiment of the invention, eachlimb 230 includes anupper limb portion 340 coupled to theaxle shaft 326, and alower limb portion 342 coupled to thelimb pocket 16. A rotating member, i.e., thewheel 24 or thecam 30 is disposed along theaxle shaft 326. Asuspension device 344 is disposed between and coupled to the upper 340 and lower 342 limb portions. Thesuspension device 344 is preferably formed from an elastomeric material. It is, however, appreciated that thesuspension device 344 may be formed from any of numerous dampening materials. Thesuspension device 344 decouples theupper limb portion 340 from thelower limb portion 342 for decoupling the string load or cable and harness system load from theriser 12. - It is hereby contemplated that multiple embodiments, set forth above, may be incorporated into a single archery bow in order to provide optimal dampening of vibrational energy throughout the
archery bow 10. - The invention has been described in an illustrative manner. It is to be understood that the terminology, which has been used, is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. Many modifications and variations of the invention are possible in light of the above teachings. Therefore, within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced other than as specifically described.
Claims (27)
1. A suspension system for dampening vibrational energy and noise in an archery bow, said suspension system comprising:
an axle shaft;
a rotating member rotatably coupled to said axle shaft and defining a string groove; and
a string partially extending along said string groove, said string having an over molded portion contacting said string groove for decoupling said string from said string groove to dampen vibrational energy and noise generated during each shot of the archery bow.
2. A suspension system for dampening vibrational energy and noise in an archery bow having a string, said suspension system comprising:
an axle shaft;
a rotating member rotatably coupled to said axle shaft and having a string groove; and
an over molding coupled to said rotating member along said string groove for decoupling said rotating member from the string to dampen vibrational energy generated by the string.
3. A method for over molding a string of an archery bow with a molding material via a mold, the method comprising the steps of:
placing the string inside the mold;
applying tension to the string; and
introducing the molding material into the mold to form at least one over molded portion along the string.
4. A method as set forth in claim 3 wherein the step of applying tension to the string occurs prior to the step of introducing the molding material into the mold to form at least one over molded portion along the string.
5. A method for over molding a wheel, having a body including a plurality of interlocking flow ports and a string groove, with a molding material via a mold, the method comprising the steps of:
placing the body inside the mold;
introducing the molding material into the mold for entry inside the interlocking flow ports; and
curing the molding material to form an over molding interlocked in place over the body and along the string groove.
6. A method of over molding a cam, having a body including a plurality of interlocking ports and a string groove, with a molding material via a mold, the method comprising the steps of:
placing the body inside the mold;
introducing the molding material into the mold for passage within the interlocking ports; and
curing the molding material to form an over molding interlocked with the string groove.
7. An archery bow for decoupling a string and harness load from a riser, said archery bow comprising:
a limb adapted to be coupled to the riser and having a fork opposite the riser, said fork defining a pair of spaced apart housings each having an interior;
an interlocking hub disposed within said interior of each of said spaced apart housings; and
a suspension device over molded onto said housing and interlockingly engaging said interlocking hub for decoupling at least a portion of the string and harness load from the riser.
8. An archery bow as set forth in claim 7 wherein said suspension device is formed from an elastomeric material.
9. An archery bow for decoupling a string and harness load from a riser, said archery bow comprising:
a limb adapted to be coupled to the riser, said limb having a fork including a pair of spaced apart limb tips;
a limb tip housing fixedly secured to each of said spaced apart limb tips, said limb tip housing defining a cavity; and
a suspension device over molded onto each of said limb tip housings and disposed within said cavity for decoupling at least a portion of the string and harness load from the riser.
10. An archery bow as set forth in claim 9 wherein said suspension device is formed from an elastomeric material.
11. An archery bow as set forth in claim 10 wherein each of said limb tip housings includes an interlocking hub within said cavity in interlocking engagement with said suspension device.
12. An archery bow as set forth in claim 11 including an interlocking hub retainer disposed within said cavity for retaining said interlocking hub in place as said suspension device is molded thereto.
13. A method of manufacturing an archery bow suspension system, including a limb, a fork defining a pair of spaced apart housings, and a suspension device, from a billet and at least one billet portion, the method comprising the steps of:
forming the limb including the fork defining the pair of spaced apart housings from the billet and the at least one billet portion;
placing one of the interlocking hubs inside each of the housings; and
over molding the suspension device onto each of the housings in interlocking engagement with the interlocking hub.
14. A method as set forth in claim 13 including the step of securing the at least one billet portions to one end of the billet prior to the step of forming the limb including the fork defining the pair of spaced apart housings from the billet and at least one billet portion.
15. A suspension system for dampening vibrational energy in an archery bow having a riser and an axle shaft, said suspension system including:
a main limb body having one end operably coupled to the riser and an opposing end having at least one limb tip;
at least one limb tip housing disposed along the axle shaft and coupled to said limb tip; and
a suspension device disposed between said limb tip housing and said limb tip for decoupling said main limb body from said limb tip housing to dampen vibrational energy generated at the axle shaft.
16. A suspension system for decoupling the load generated from either of a string and a cable and harness system of an archery bow, said suspension system comprising:
a riser defining a suspension housing;
a cable guard rod extending between said riser and the cable and harness system; and
a suspension device disposed within said suspension housing for decoupling said cable guard rod from said riser for dampening vibration generated by at least one of the string and cable and harness system during each shot of the archery bow.
17. A suspension system as set forth in claim 16 wherein said suspension housing includes a plurality of interlocking openings for interlocking engagement with said suspension device.
18. A suspension system for decoupling the load generated from a cable and harness system of an archery bow, said suspension system comprising:
a riser;
a cable guard arm extending out from said riser;
a cable guard slide disposed along said cable guard arm; and
a suspension device disposed between said cable guard slide and said cable guard arm for decoupling said cable guard slide from said cable guard arm to dampen vibration generated at the cable and harness system.
19. A suspension system for an archery bow having a riser and a cable and harness system, said suspension system comprising:
a cable guard arm extending out from the riser and operably connected to the cable and harness system, said cable guard arm having an elongated outer core and an elongated inner core received within an elongated outer core; and
a suspension device disposed between said elongated outer and inner cores for decoupling the riser from the cable and harness system to dampen vibrations generated during each shot of the archery bow.
20. A suspension system as set forth in claim 19 wherein said suspension device is formed from an elastomeric material.
21. A suspension system as set forth in claim 20 wherein each of said elongated outer and inner cores is formed from a solid, non-elastomeric material.
22. A suspension system for an archery bow comprising:
a riser;
a roller arm extending out from said riser;
a cable and harness system operably connected to said roller arm; and
a suspension device secured to said roller arm and receiving said cable and harness system therealong for decoupling said cable and harness system from said riser to dampen vibration during each shot of the archery bow.
23. A suspension system for an archery bow comprising:
a riser;
an axle shaft;
a limb having one end operably coupled to said riser and an opposing end adjacent said axle shaft; and
a suspension device disposed about said axle shaft for decoupling said limb from said axle shaft to dampen vibrations generated by said axle shaft during each shot of the archery bow.
24. A suspension system as set forth in claim 23 wherein said suspension device includes a suspension housing disposed along said axle shaft.
25. A suspension system as set forth in claim 24 wherein said suspension device includes a ball bearing encased within said suspension housing and disposed along said axle shaft.
26. A suspension system for an archery bow comprising:
a riser:
an axle shaft;
a limb having one end operably coupled to said riser and an opposite end receiving said axle shaft therethrough, said limb having a clearance hole for allowing said axle shaft to float relative to said limb; and
a suspension device disposed about said axle shaft for decoupling said limb from said axle shaft to dampen vibrations generated by said axle shaft during each shot of the archery bow.
27. A suspension system for an archery bow having a riser and a rotating member, said suspension system comprising:
a lower limb portion operably coupled to the riser;
an upper limb portion operably coupled to the rotating member; and
a suspension device disposed between said upper and lower limb portions for decoupling the rotating member from the riser for dampening vibrational energy during each shot of the archery bow.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/184,572 US20060011190A1 (en) | 2002-02-08 | 2005-07-19 | Bow suspension system |
Applications Claiming Priority (9)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US35558302P | 2002-02-08 | 2002-02-08 | |
US35557402P | 2002-02-08 | 2002-02-08 | |
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US41809802P | 2002-10-11 | 2002-10-11 | |
US41809202P | 2002-10-11 | 2002-10-11 | |
US42589902P | 2002-11-13 | 2002-11-13 | |
US42596002P | 2002-11-13 | 2002-11-13 | |
US10/361,333 US6964271B2 (en) | 2002-02-08 | 2003-02-10 | Bow suspension system |
US11/184,572 US20060011190A1 (en) | 2002-02-08 | 2005-07-19 | Bow suspension system |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US10/361,333 Continuation-In-Part US6964271B2 (en) | 2002-02-08 | 2003-02-10 | Bow suspension system |
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US20060011190A1 true US20060011190A1 (en) | 2006-01-19 |
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ID=46322288
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/184,572 Abandoned US20060011190A1 (en) | 2002-02-08 | 2005-07-19 | Bow suspension system |
Country Status (1)
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US (1) | US20060011190A1 (en) |
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US20180156563A1 (en) * | 2016-12-02 | 2018-06-07 | Brian Joseph Blonski | Composite Bow Limb |
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US20090272369A1 (en) * | 2008-05-01 | 2009-11-05 | Michael Konczal | Device and method for protecting an archery cam edge |
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US8448633B2 (en) | 2009-10-27 | 2013-05-28 | Mcp Ip, Llc | String damper having aperture |
US9791235B2 (en) | 2009-10-27 | 2017-10-17 | Mcp Ip, Llc | String damper having aperture |
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US20140209080A1 (en) * | 2013-01-31 | 2014-07-31 | Mathew A. McPherson | Archery Bow Axle Connector |
US11067355B2 (en) | 2014-05-30 | 2021-07-20 | Mcp Ip, Llc | Archery bow cable mounted protector |
US9115953B1 (en) * | 2015-02-20 | 2015-08-25 | Dorge O. Huang | Tubular axle for archery bow cam |
US20170097206A1 (en) * | 2015-10-02 | 2017-04-06 | Bear Archery, Inc. | Cable attachment fitting for a bow |
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US20180156563A1 (en) * | 2016-12-02 | 2018-06-07 | Brian Joseph Blonski | Composite Bow Limb |
US9746275B1 (en) * | 2017-01-19 | 2017-08-29 | Sergey Popov | Split cams for a compound archery bow |
US20190186862A1 (en) * | 2017-12-15 | 2019-06-20 | Mcp Ip, Llc | Archery Bow Pulley Engagement |
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Legal Events
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Owner name: MILLWOOD, INC., OHIO Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:DESIGN INNOVATIONS, LLC;REEL/FRAME:018688/0947 Effective date: 20061031 |
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Owner name: OUTDOOR INNOVATIONS, LLC, OHIO Free format text: NUNC PRO TUNC ASSIGNMENT;ASSIGNORS:NISH, JEFFREY L., MR.;DESIGN INNOVATIONS, LLC;WHISPER CREEK ARCHERY, LLC;REEL/FRAME:019341/0152 Effective date: 20070510 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |