US20140090629A1

US20140090629A1 - Projectile Launcher And Applications Therefor

Info

Publication number: US20140090629A1
Application number: US13/939,643
Authority: US
Inventors: Bradley D. Pedersen; Kyle Jeffs
Original assignee: Tech 4 Kids Inc
Current assignee: Basic Fun Ltd
Priority date: 2012-10-01
Filing date: 2013-07-11
Publication date: 2014-04-03
Also published as: CA2827777A1; CN103736282A

Abstract

A toy projectile launcher having a handle for receiving a removable projectile clip mechanism that stores projectiles in an unstretched state. A trigger mechanism is provided to engage and stretch a projectile when pulled towards the rear, and is configured to release the stretched projectile when pulled past a pre-determined distance. A blow-back mechanism is provided and movable secured about an upper portion of the body. The trigger mechanism is configured to engage the blow-back mechanism as the trigger is pulled and the blow-back mechanism is configured to disengage from the trigger mechanism when the trigger is pulled past the pre-determined distance to substantially coincide with the release of the stretched projectile.

Description

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation in part of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/843,898 filed Sep. 26, 2012, which is a nonprovisional application of U.S. Provisional Application 61/542,772 filed Oct. 3, 2011; and this application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application 61/708,110 filed Oct. 1, 2012.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of toys, and in particular, relates to projectile launchers and different applications used therewith.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Historically toy projectiles and projectile launchers have relied upon the use of air pressure, catapults, elastics, motors, or springs to launch the projectiles. While these have proved popular, it would be advantageous to provide projectile toys with reusable projectiles, that do not require bulky air chambers which restrict product design, and to provide fast firing with a toy safe for kids. These toy projectile launcher would result in the creation of new games as a result of the nature of the projectile.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An exemplary implementation of a projectile toy of the present invention is a projectile which is adapted to be stretched so as to create an elastic force, and in a preferred feature, a launcher which is adapted to exert a stretching force of the projectile toy, and then release the stretching force, causing the projectile to be projected.
As a result of the present invention, the “ammunition” of the projectile toy, also acts as to provide its own projection force, and preferably, by selection of the proper material, provides game features, as will be herein described. In a preferred embodiment, the projectile is manufactured from an elastic-type material, and in a most preferred embodiment, the projectile is manufactured from materials with elastic qualities.
The launcher of the present invention is preferably a gun having components described and shown in the description and drawings. The gun may also have a magazine with multiple projectiles loaded and positioned for the launching mechanism in the gun to load and release. The magazine may be re-loaded by simply removing it from the gun and inserting the projectiles at a loading area in the magazine. When the toy projectile is released, the projectile flies forward, out of a nozzle from the gun, and flies towards a target.
Numerous other advantages and features of the invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description of the invention and the embodiments thereof, from the claims, and from the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A fuller understanding of the foregoing may be had by reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a projectile launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a side view of the projectile launcher from FIG. 1;

FIG. 3A illustrates in various views a projectile configured for launching by one or more projectile launchers in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 3B illustrates in various views another projectile configured for Launching by one or more projectile launchers in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 3C illustrates in various views another projectile configured for launching by one or more projectile launchers in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 3D illustrates various projectiles configured for launching by one or more projectile launchers in accordance With various embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 3E illustrates in another projectile configured for launching by one or more projectile launchers in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a projectile launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention illustrating some of the internal components with a portion of the main body housing removed;

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a projectile launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention illustrating a two piece main housing with a magazine compartment being housed in the handle;

FIG. 5B is an exploded perspective view of the components of a projectile clip mechanism used by one or more embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 5C is a perspective view of the components of a projectile clip mechanism assembled and with a portion of the magazine compartment housing removed;

FIG. 5D is a partial perspective view of a projectile clip mechanism assembled into a projectile launcher;

FIG. 5E is a partial perspective view of a projectile launcher illustrating a projectile clip mechanism and a clip release mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5F is a partial perspective exploded view of a projectile launcher illustrating a projectile clip mechanism and a clip release mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of an electronic device holder mechanism and the electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the electronic device holder mechanism and the electronic device with a portion of the launcher mechanism used to hold the electronic device holder mechanism in position;

FIG. 6C is an exploded component view of the electronic device holder mechanism and the electronic device from FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6D is an exploded component view of the electronic device holder mechanism from FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6E is a perspective view of the electronic device holder mechanism and a piece of the muzzle cradle housing in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7A is a partial perspective view of internal components utilized by the trigger mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7B is a partial perspective view of internal components utilized by the trigger mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8A is a partial perspective view of internal components utilized by the trigger mechanism and the first gear plate in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8B is an exploded perspective view of internal components of the first gear plate, compound gear, and push arm in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8C is an exploded perspective view of internal components of the first gear plate, compound gear, second gear plate and forward projectile launching clip in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8D is an exploded perspective view of internal components for launching a projectile in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a partial internal perspective view of components utilized for launching a projectile in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a partial enlarged internal perspective view of components utilized for launching a projectile in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of components utilized for launching a projectile in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of components utilized in an adjustable calibration mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12B is a perspective view of components utilized in an adjustable calibration mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12C is a perspective view of components utilized in an adjustable calibration mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12D is a perspective view of components utilized in an adjustable calibration mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13A is a perspective view of components utilized for a blow-back mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13B is another perspective view of components utilized for a blow-back mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13C is another perspective view of components utilized for a blow-back mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13D is another perspective view of components utilized for a blow-back mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13E is another perspective view of components utilized for a blow-back mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of components utilized for a front pump mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14B is a perspective view of components utilized for a front pump mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15A is a perspective view of components utilized for moving the magazine compartment during launcher of a projectile;

FIG. 15B is a perspective views of components utilized for moving the magazine compartment during launcher of a projectile;

FIG. 16A is a view of targets with codes readable by an electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16B is a view of a target with codes readable by an electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16C is a view of a target with codes readable by an electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16D is a view of a target with codes readable by an electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16E is a view of a target with codes readable by an electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16F is a view of a target with codes readable by an electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16G is a view of a target with codes readable by an electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16H is a system diagram for a software application running on an electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16I is a system diagram for a software application running on an electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16J is a top view illustration of an electronic device screen showing the software application running for use with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16K is a top view illustration of an electronic device screen showing the software application running for use with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17A is a perspective view of a projectile launcher in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17B is a side view of the projectile launcher from FIG. 17A;

FIGS. 18A and 18B are perspective views of an adjustable stock end of a projectile launcher in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a side view of a projectile launcher with a removable magazine compartment mechanism in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20A is a perspective view of a magazine compartment mechanism and the internal components therefor in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20B is a perspective view of a magazine compartment mechanism and the internal components therefor in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20C is a perspective view of a magazine compartment mechanism and the internal components therefor in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20D is a perspective view of a magazine compartment mechanism and the internal components therefor in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 21 is a partial internal perspective view of a magazine compartment mechanism secured within the magazine well of a projectile launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22A is a perspective view of an electronic device holder in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22B is a perspective view of an electronic device holder in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23 is a partial exploded view of housing components used for a projectile launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 24 is a partial exploded view of housing components used for a projectile launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 25A is a partial perspective view of internal components utilized to launch projectiles from a projectile launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 25B is a partial perspective views of internal components utilized to launch projectiles from a projectile launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 25C is a perspective view of internal components used to calibrate stretching of a projectile in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26A is a perspective view of internal components utilized to launch projectiles from a projectile launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26B is a perspective view of internal components utilized by a hand pump mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26C is a perspective view of internal components utilized to launch projectiles from a projectile launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 27A is a partially exploded view of internal components utilized to launch projectiles from a projectile launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 27B is an exploded view of internal components utilized to launch projectiles from a projectile launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 27C is a partially exploded view of internal components utilized to launch projectiles from a projectile launcher in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 27D is a reverse illustration of the components from FIG. 27B.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

While the invention is susceptible to embodiments in many different forms, there are shown in the drawings and will be described in detail herein the preferred embodiments of the present invention. It should be understood, however, that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the spirit or scope of the invention and/or claims of the embodiments illustrated.
The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the present invention, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodiment of the invention will now be illustrated by way of example only. In the drawings; like reference numerals depict like elements.
It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. Also, unless otherwise specifically noted, all of the features described herein may be combined with any of the above aspects, in any combination.
Referring to FIG. 1, there is provided a projectile launcher 100 in the form a handheld toy gun. The launcher 100 includes various components and mechanisms working in concert to shoot a projectile out of a front end nozzle section 105. The launcher 100 includes a handle 110 that includes a removable or accessible projectile clip mechanism 112, to allow the user to reload projectiles. A trigger mechanism 115 is provided with a finger trigger 117 that when pulled by the user's finger will launch the projectile. After firing the trigger mechanism automatically resets in order to set up the next projectile for firing. A front pump mechanism 120 may also be employed to allow the user the ability to grasp the front pump mechanism in their hand, pull back towards the handle, and activate the trigger mechanism firing the projectile.
A blow-back mechanism 125 is also provided about the back end 102 of the launcher 100. The blow-back mechanism 125, further described in greater detail below, laterally moves in relation to the launcher 100 when the projectile is being fired (FIG. 2). As the projectile is fired, the blew-back mechanism 125 is released and returns to its resting position (as shown in FIG. 1). During the return the blow-back mechanism 125 pushes against an e-touch marker 127, which is moved forwardly slightly enough to make contact with the touch-screen of an electronic device 130 with a touch display, such as a smartphone touch screen music player, or other similar type devices. The movement of the e-touch marker 127 is controlled to the extent that the movement makes contact with the electronic device and to interact with a software application running on the electronic device 130 without damaging the electronic device 130. This allows the launcher 100 to have an interactive playground by extending the play experience on a digital platform with first person video game type features. The programming running on the electronic device may thus provide a limitless experience for the user. Any type of software application can be running on the smartphone 130, as will be discussed in greater detail below, to add visual, sound, GPS functions, and multi-player combination, and various game play scenarios.
The electronic device 130 is held in place on the top 132 of the launcher 100 by a e-device holder mechanism 135. The e-device holder mechanism 135 as described below in greater detail is removably attached to a muzzle cradle mechanism 140, which is secured to the muzzle 145 of the launcher 100.
Referring now to FIGS. 3A through 3E there is provided various projectile embodiments made in accordance with the present invention. The projectiles are unique and novel themselves because the material characteristics are configured to provide a pliable but yet resilient material such that the projectile can be stretched to a length greater then its resting length. The resiliency is however extremely fast, such that the potential energy stored in the projectile when stretched allows the projectile to thrust forward when released. In addition, the projectiles may also have a sticky characteristic such that when the projectile strikes a surface it tends to adhere to the surface as well. Other characteristics of the projectile may include glow in the dark, and/or longer flight characteristics.
in another embodiment, the projectile may include a first portion and a second portion, which may be the same portion or the entire projectile. The first portion being is made of a material having a first characteristic configured to provide a pliable and resilient feature, such that the pliable feature configures the projectile to have a stretchable pardon that is stretchable to a length greater then a resting length and the resilient feature configures the projectile to return from a stretched positioned to the resting length, Thus the resiliency is such that a potential energy stored in the projectile when stretched is quickly converted to kinetic energy to launch the projectile. Furthermore, the second portion is made of a material having a second characteristic that may be configured to provide a sticky characteristic such that when the projectile strikes a surface the at least second portion tends to adhere to the surface. This allows the projectile to be used for a variety of uses and games.
As shown in FIG. 3A, the projectile 200 may be a solid design or as shown in FIG. 3B, the projectile 205 may have a hollow centered channel 207. The projectiles 200 and 205 are preferably blow molded and or injection molded thermoplastic resin having the above noted characteristics. In embodiment FIG. 3B, the projectile 205 is shaped as a toroid with are internal annual channel 207. The channel may include a trapped gas such as air.
In but one embodiment of the projectiles, one of which is provided as having the elasticity characteristics for the particular size of about 20 mm diameter measured from the outer edge to outer edge. The internal diameter of the channel is about 4 mm with a wail thickness of the projectile of about 1.5 mm. As further illustrated in FIGS. 3C and 3D projectiles 210 may have various designs using over molding to combine two different densities or rubber (sticky 212 with non sticky sections 214).
Referring now to FIG. 3E, a projectile 220 is provided. The projectile includes a textured surface made of small polygonal raised surface structures 222. The structures may be provided over the entire surface of the projectile 220. It has been found that these projectiles help dissipate air flow allowing it to fly further than an untextured surface. In addition, and as shown and discussed in the below embodiments, when multiple projectiles are stacked in a clip, the textured surface tends to limit the surface area contact between projectiles helping to reduce adjacent projecting from sticking or adhering to each other.
Referring now to FIG. 4, the launcher 100 is shown with various component housing pieces removed to begin the discussion on the interaction of the internal components/mechanisms. Referring now also to FIGS. 5A to 5F, the first discussion be made with respect to the projectile clip mechanism 112 housed and removably attached within the handle 110 of the launcher 100. The launcher 100 includes a two piece main housing 300/302, which includes at least the handle 110, the muzzle 105, and a body 305. As mentioned the projectile clip mechanism 112 rests in the handle 110.
The projectile clip mechanism 112 includes a two-piece handle butt 310, a magazine compartment 315, projectiles 317, a loading mechanism 319, and a clip release mechanism 320. The two-piece handle butt 310, when secured in place, rests against a bottom edge 322 of the handle 110. The two-piece handle butt 310 also houses the loading mechanism 319 which consists of a projectile loading rod 330 which holds the projectiles 317, a two piece loading base 335 and a spring 340. The spring 340 is positioned against the inside edge of the handle butt 310 and against the loading base 335. As a projectile 317 is fired, the spring which is in compression, forces the loading base upwardly pushing the projectiles 317 upwardly such that the subsequent projectile is in position for firing. The projectiles 317 are surrounded by the two piece magazine compartment 315. When the projectile 317 is in position, an opening 342 in the magazine compartment 315 allows the projectiles to be fired.
As noted above, the projectile clip mechanism 112 is removably attached within the handle 110 of the launcher 100. Turning now to FIGS. 5D to 5F, the clip release mechanism 320 includes a pair of release tabs 350 accessible externally from the main housing 300/302. The release tabs 350 are pivotally attached onto the handle 110 towards or near the finger trigger 117. Positioned between and attached to the two release tabs 350 is a flange 352, which when the release tabs 350 are rotated the flange 352 engages an upper portion of a release arm 354 that is pivotally connected about a pivot pin 360 within the handle. At the distal end of the release arm 354 is a projecting arm 356, which engages an aperture 358 in the two-piece handle butt 310. However, the projecting arm 356 will disengage the aperture 358 when the release tabs 350 are pivoted, allowing the projectile clip mechanism 112 to be removed from the handle 110. When removed, projectiles can be easily loaded into the projectile clip mechanism 112, and when inserted a spring (not shown) in the pair of release tabs 350 keeps the flange 352 disengaged from the release arm 354. A small spring on the pivot pin 360 keeps the projecting arm 356 engaged into the aperture 358.
Referring now to FIGS. 6A through 6E, there is shown the e-device holder mechanism 135 for holding the electronic device 130 on top of the launcher 100. The holder mechanism 135 includes a two piece muzzle cradle 400 that is secured onto the muzzle 145 of the launcher 100 and includes a removable e-device attachment assembly 405. The attachment assembly 405 has a top gripping pad 410 and a bottom gripping pad 415 facing each other to grip and hold in place the electronic device. The pads 410/415 are secured to upper and lower holders that are secured to each other. In addition soft back pads 417 are included and secured to portions of the lower holder 425, which are used to rest against and cushion the electronic device.
The upper holder 420 is defined by a reverse L shape configuration. The head 422 of the upper holder 420 has openings to receive the top gripping pad 410 and the body 424 of the upper holder 420 includes a channel 426 with clips 428 extending towards each other over the channel 426. The body 424 is positioned against the lower holder 425. A lever 430 is positioned between the upper holder 420 and the lower holder 425 within the channel 426. The lever 430 includes notches 432 to receive the clips 428 and allow the two components to secure to one another. The lever 430 includes a pivot pin 434 along the bottom portion which rests in bore 436 on the bottom portion of the body 424 of the upper holder 420. The body 424 of the upper holder 420 further includes externally protruding flanges 438 along the outside of the channel 426 and extending outwardly. The protruding flanges 438 engage corresponding grooves 442 on the lower holder 425, which when engaged holds the upper holder 420 against the lower holder 425. To separate the two pieces, the lever 430 can be pulled back towards the lower holder 425 forcing the protruding flanges 438 of the upper holder 420 to disengage the corresponding grooves 442 on the lower holder 425.
The lower holder 425 includes a pair of arms 435 that extend away from the body 424 of the upper holder 420. The arms 435 each include ridges 440 along an outer facing side. To secure the holder mechanism 135 to the muzzle cradle 400, the arms 435 are positioned within the muzzle cradle 400. The muzzle cradle 400 includes cooperative ridges 402, such that the arms 435 are able to engage the muzzle cradle 400 and be secured in position. The muzzle cradle 400 further include windows 404 positioned over a portion of the arms when the holder mechanism 135 is secured thereto. The user can then apply pressure to the arms through the windows, such as a squeezing pressure to disengage the cooperative ridges.
Referring now to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the trigger mechanism 115 will be discussed in greater detail. The trigger mechanism as noted includes a finger trigger 117 accessible by a finger of a user. The user pulls the finger trigger 117 towards the rear end of the launcher 100 in order to stretch a projectile. As the finger trigger 117 reaches a particular point, the projectile is automatically fired through the muzzle of the launcher. Unlike most launchers, which require the release of the finger trigger to fire the projectile, the particular embodiment will fire the projectile when the finger trigger is pulled back to a particular position (which as discussed is adjustable), which will release the projectile. To accomplish this the trigger mechanism 115 includes a finger trigger 117 attached to a base component 500. In one embodiment the finger trigger 117 and base component 500 are molded as a single component and the base component 500 has a bottom surface 502 from which the finger trigger 117 extends therefore and has at least one upstanding wall surface 504 extending from the bottom surface 502. The base component 500 may be U-shaped to include two upstanding wall surfaces 504/505. Each wall surface of the base component includes a notch 506. The base component 500 may further include a flange 508 extending below the center of the bottom surface 502, which is captured by a groove 503 the bottom of the muzzle region of the main housing 300/302 when assembled to help limit movement of the base component 500 away from movement along the longitudinal axis of the launcher. In addition, the finger trigger 117 may further include a hook 510 extending along the bottom portion of the finger trigger 117. The hook 510 is captured in a portion of the main housing 300/302 when assembly. A trigger spring 512 positioned and secured at one end 514 around the hook and around the other end 516 around a protrusion 518 extending within the main housing 300/302 about a front section of the trigger guard 520.
Turning now to FIG. 8A the trigger mechanism 115 is attached to a first gear plate 550 such that when the trigger mechanism is moved the gear plate 550 moves therewith. The first gear plate 550 has a forward end 552 and a rearward end 554 as well as a bottom end 556 and a top end 558. The first gear plate 550 includes an U-shaped upper section 560 with an elongated gear rack 562 on one of the legs of the U-shaped upper section, leaving an upper section channel 564 between the legs. The elongated gear rack is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the launcher and positioned about the forward end 552 and on the top end 558. Extending outwardly from one or more of the legs of the U-shaped upper section 560 are pegs 566 that engage the notch(es) 506 on the base component 500. As such when the base component 500 is moved the first gear plate 550 moves therewith, or towards the rear section of the launcher 100.
The first gear plate 550 further includes a guide post 572 extending along a portion of the bottom end 556 and about the rearward end 554. The guide post 572, discussed in greater detail below, includes a ramp edge 574 that is angled towards the forward end to the bottom end 556. The first gear plate 550 further includes a protruding guide 576 extending towards the rear section of the launcher and that extends from the rearward end 554.
Secured to the top end 558 of the gear plate is a push lever 578. The push lever 578 includes an elongated arm 580 extending towards the rear section of the launcher. When the gear plate 550 moves towards the rear section of the launcher, the push lever and the elongated arm 580 similarly moves rearwardly.
Referring now also to FIG. 9, a second gear plate 590 is positioned above the push lever 578. The second gear plate 590 includes a U shaped channel 592 on the underside thereof and extending downwardly. The distance between the legs of the U-shaped channel 592 is such to rest on the outer edges of the first gear plate 550. Positioned on one or more legs of the U-shaped channel 592 are apertures 594. The underside 594 of the second gear plate 590 includes a underside rack 596. In addition, extending outwardly on the periphery of one or more edges 597 of the second gear plate 590 are upper flanges 598.
The first and second gear plates are meshed with one or more gears 568 that are positioned in the upper section channel 564 of the first gear plate 550 and rotatably secured to the main housing 300/302. In the preferred embodiment, the gears 568 include a first gear 569 secured to a second gear 570. The second gear 570 is meshed to the underside rack 596 of the second gear plate. Thus when the trigger mechanism 115 is pulled back, the first gear plate 550 moves rearwardly rotating the one or more gears 568 which moves the second gear plate 590 towards the forward section or muzzle end of the launcher 100.
A two piece gear housing 600 is secured around the first and second gear plates. The gear housing 600 includes an lower groove 602 and an upper groove 604 that accommodate lower flanges 606 positioned on the first gear plate 550 and upper flanges 598 positioned on the second gear plate 590. This helps secure the two gear plates in position while allowing the two gear plates to move in or slide in the grooves.
As mentioned above, the upper gear plate 590 includes one or more apertures 594. The aperture(s) 594 accommodate a prong end 612 of a forward projectile launching clip 610. The forward projectile launching clip 610 has a lower hook end 614 an intermediate base end 616 and one or more prong arms 611, each with a prong end 612. As illustrated, the forward projectile launching clip 610 includes a Y-shaped segment that branches from the intermediate base end 616 to two prong ends 612. Each of the prong ends 612 are received into the apertures 594 of the upper gear plate 590.
As shown in FIG. 10, the lower hook end 614 is positioned to grab an end of the projectile 317. When the second gear plate 590 moves forward, the forward projectile launching clip 610 is pulled forward. The intermediate base end 616 rides along the guide post 572 and then down the ramp edge 574; all along pulling an end of a projectile 317. At the same moment in time, first gear plate 550 moves towards the rear section of the launcher. Pivotally secured about a pin 618 on the rearward end 554 of the first gear plate 550 is a rearward projectile launching lever 620. As such the forward projectile launching clip 610 and the rearward projectile launching lever 620 stretch the projectile 317 when the trigger mechanism 115 is moved towards the rear section of the launcher. The rearward projectile launching lever 620 includes a lever spring 622. The lever spring 622 is return spring for the projectile launching lever 620. When the trigger is pulled, the rearward projectile launching lever 620 moves backwards in the channel, stretching and increasing the potential energy in the projectile. When the channel ends, the rearward projectile launching lever 620 rotates forward releasing the projectile. The lever spring 622 rotates the rearward projectile launching lever 620 back into an original resting position.
Referring now also to FIG. 11, as the rearward projectile launching lever 620 moves towards the rear section of the launcher, the head 630 thereof rides against an adjustable calibration level 702, defined below. When the rearward projectile launching lever 620 moves past the adjustable calibration level 702, the lever 620 pivots about pin 618. During the pivot, the rearward hook 632 on the rearward projectile launching lever 620 rotates backwards releases its grasp on an end of the projectile 317, and thus launching the projectile 317.
Releasing the trigger mechanism after firing returns the components back to their initial position. The return of the components is caused by having a first spring 680 positioned over a rear projection 622 defined against a rear portion 684 of the gear housing 600 and the distal end of the spring over the protruding guide 576 from the first gear plate 550; and caused from the trigger spring 512. During movement of the trigger mechanism 115, the first spring 680 compresses and the trigger spring is under tension. A rebase of the trigger mechanism 115 causes the first spring 680 to uncompress and the trigger spring to pull the trigger mechanism, both of which moves the components back to their initial position.
The adjustable calibration level 702 is part of an adjustable calibration mechanism 700, illustrated in FIGS. 12A through 12C. The adjustable calibration mechanism 700 is used to adjust the length of movement of the rearward projectile launching lever 620 and thus adjust the amount of stretching of the projectile. The more the projectile is stretched the larger amount of potential energy is created causing the projectile to fly longer. The adjustable calibration mechanism 700 includes three components, a calibration lever 710, a control member 712, and a slideable calibration table 714. The control member 712 includes a control head 716 accessible externally from the launcher 100. The control member 712 is secured to slideable calibration table 714, by various methods, although one method includes the control member 712 having prongs 718 extending through an opening 720 on the slideable calibration table 714. A calibration lever 710 is secured to the gear housing 600 and includes a detent 722, that sits in notches 724 on the slideable calibration table 714. The slideable calibration table 714 is slidably positioned against the gear housing 600 in a position that has the adjustable calibration level 702 received by an elongated opening 726. As shown in FIG. 11, the elongated opening 726 is longer than the adjustable calibration level 702, which allows the adjustable calibration level 702 to move into multiple positions defined by the number of notches 724. The user simply applies pressure to the control head 716 and slides the slideable calibration table 714 to a position where the detent 722 sits in one of the notches 724 on the slideable calibration table 714. This moves the adjustable calibration level 702 which causes the rearward projectile launching lever 620 to move in its projectile engaged position to the end of the adjustable calibration level 702, after which the rearward projectile launching lever 620 pivots out of engagement launching the projectile 317.
Referring now to FIGS. 13A through 13F, in addition to the above, as the first gear plate 550 moves towards the rear section of the launcher, the elongated arm 580 moves therewith. As it moves, the elongated arm 580 makes contact with a protruding member 758 within the blow-back mechanism 125 and pushes against it causing the blow back mechanism 125 to move rearwardly away from the launcher, as seen in FIG. 13C. The blow-back mechanism 125 includes a two piece blow-back housing 750 with a blow-back prong 752 positioned near the front end of the blow-back housing 750 and the protruding member 58 extending from one of the two piece blow-back housings 750. The blow-back prong 752 is captured by one end of a blow-back spring 754, which has another end positioned against a wall 756 of the gear housing 600. While the blow-back mechanism 125 is being moved, the blow-back spring 754 is compressed. Once the trigger mechanism is released, the elongated arm 580 will return to its initial position breaking contact with the blow-back mechanism 125 and the blow-back spring 754 will force the blow-back housing 750 to return to a resting position against the launcher 100.
During its rest position, a portion 760 of the blow-back mechanism 125, which also houses the blow-back prong 752, is pressing against the e-touch marker mechanism 127 which causes a slight compression of a marker spring 800. When the blow-back mechanism 125 is moved away from the launcher 100, the marker spring 800 uncompresses and moves a marker holder 810 towards the rear section of the launcher. The marker holder 810 holds the e-touch marker 820 with a soft tip 825 to ensure when the e-touch marker 820 makes contact with the electronic device 130, the touch is a soft touch. Once the blow-back mechanism 125 is released, the portion 760 returns and hits the marker holder 810, forcing the marker holder 810 to move towards the electronic device 130. This causes the e-touch marker 820 to move towards the electronic device 130 and make contact with the electronic device 130. The marker spring 800 comes under compression again to help ensure the movement of the e-touch marker 820 and the ultimate contact with the electronic device 130 is limited to a soft touch.
The blow-back mechanism 125 is released when the elongated arm 580 from the push lever 578 reaches a predetermined distance and the ramp end on the elongated arm loses contact with the protruding member 758. This occurs about the same time as the rearward projectile launcher lever 620 releases the projectile.
Referring now also to FIGS. 14A and 14B, the front pump mechanism 120 can be used to fire the projectile instead of using the trigger 117. The front pump mechanism 120 includes a two piece housing 850 that is secured about a slideable pump member 852. The slideable pump member 852 includes a body 854 secured within the two piece front pump housing 850 and a head 856 protruding out of the two piece front pump housing 850. The head 856 is secured along the groove 503 in the bottom along the front end and bottom portion 860 of the two-piece housing 300/302. When assembled, the head 856 of the slideable pump member 852 abuts the front edge of the base component 500. As such, when the front pump mechanism 120 is pulled back it pushes the base component 500 and then starts the movement of the components to stretch the projectile.
Referring now to FIGS. 15A and 15B, to help ensure the magazine compartment 315 does not interfere with the firing of the projectiles 317, during the stretching of the projectiles, the magazine compartment 315 is pushed downwardly towards the bottom of the handle butt 310. To facilitate the movement of the magazine compartment 315, the launcher 100 includes a pivot lever 900 that is pivotally attached to one of the two-piece housings 300/302. The pivot lever 900 includes a stern base 902 with an upstanding arm 904 extending from one end of the stem base 902. The upstanding arm 904 is tapered to provide a ramp. The stem base 902 abuts a ledge 906 projecting from an external surface of the magazine compartment 315. A pivot engagement member 910 is secured through a window 912 in the gear housing 600 to the first gear plate 550 and includes a lower member 914 that is configured to move with the first gear plate and engage the upstanding arm 904 as the first gear plate 550 moves towards the rear of the launcher. As the pivot engagement member 910 continues to move with the first gear plate 550, the lower member 914 will press against the upstanding arm and pivot the stern base 902 downwardly against the ledge 906 and forcing the magazine compartment 315 downwardly such that the launching projectile is able to fire unobstructively.
To return the pivot level 900 to its initial position, a lever component 920 is on a pivotal spring (not shown). In a rest position, the short end of the pivot level 900 sits between the lever component 920 and the first gear plate 550. When the trigger is pulled back, the long arm of the lever 900 rotates down depressing the magazine and at the same time a short arm 930 releases pivotal spring allowing lever component 920 to return to a rest position. When lever component 920 is in the rest position it blocks the lever 900 from returning to its own initial position, maintaining the depressed position of the magazine until the gear plate 550 returns to an initial rest position. When the gear plate returns to the initial rest position there is an extension off the side of it that will force lever component 920 to be rotated on the pivot spring away from the gear plate 550. When this occurs, short arm 930 is then able to return to its it rest position releasing the magazine housing edge 906 and causing the magazine compartment 315 to return to the loading position.
In other aspects of the invention, activities can be provided for use with the launcher and can be further developed with the use of augmented reality software applications. Augmented reality is a live, direct or indirect, view of a physical, real-world environment whose elements are augmented by computer-generated sensory input such as sound, video, graphics, or GPS data. It is related to a more general concept called mediated reality, in which a view of reality is modified by a computer. As a result, the technology functions by enhancing one's current perception of reality. In one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 16, a target 1000 can be provided with an image or may have embedded thereon a OR Code (quick response code), glyph, or other type of symbol or code which can be scanned/recognized by a smart phone or mobile device running a specified program. Once scanned the user can have an interactive experience with the application running on the smart phone or electronic device 130 in an augmented reality. The software application can then augment the image of the target into a 3 dimensional virtual world, or may with the use of the smart phone's video/camera and begin to move the target into a new background imagery of the real world surroundings. As noted above, to easily handle the use of the launcher and electronic device, the electronic device may be easily mounted to the top of the launcher where a user would normally view through a sight. As such pointing the launcher towards a target would automatically move the electronic device in the direction to be scanned. In addition the target may be designed such that when hit with a projectile the code may quickly change such as by a spring loaded mechanism or sensor mechanism that can detect vibrations caused by hitting the target. The mechanisms can quickly change the code which allows the electronic device to generate new imagery. This would allow the smart phone to for example track hits and show in an augmented reality a moving or imagine target that exhibits hit points or damage points.
One software application for the augmented reality (“AR”) can be designed into a targeting mode. The target has designed thereon a graphic with an AR glyph that is attached to pressure sensors. When you scan the glyph with your electronic device the target will no longer just be a static target hanging on the wall. Instead it will be a 3D animated target. There will be a countdown timer in the software for the electronic device and you will select between levels of difficulty that will change the amount of time you have. The object is to shoot projectiles at the target, hitting it enough times to trigger the mechanical switch which would then change the glyph, the camera on the electronic device would then pick up the change and take the target from a healthy state to a battle damaged state. Each time the target is physically hit the projectile, the glyph changes and shows a change in battle damage (the animated representation of the target) until ultimately you go through the whole sequence and destroy the target.
In another application, referred to as a team recon mode: a number of players can be active in a game and can sign in (either locally or on-line) using the electronic devices. Using the GPS system of the phones, a main server or application can run and monitor the players, including hits, locations, scores, etc. Each electronic device could further include a location display indicating other players either as friends or enemies. The main benefit is that you would define the number of players in a game and when they sign in using their phones you would be able to determine the number of players, which team they are part of, and where is their proximity on the battle field. When they are hit they would then (using an honor system or various other applications to determine damage) swipe out of the game and as it were drop off the grid. A variety of games can be created such as, Every man for himself; Team versus Team until one Team remains; or Capture the flag.
The capture the flag is slightly different than what would have been done in the past. The flags may be like a “Puck” disc or otherwise, that include a glyph which can be recognized by the software on the electronic device that you would place on the field. At the beginning of the game you would determine how many flags would be set up on the field. There would be up to 4 flags. If you were to locate the flag you would (using your smart device) scan the flag and upload it on the grid. Everyone would then be notified that the flag had been captured identifying which team had scanned it and where it was located. When all flags are scanned by one team the game would be over and ail members notified. This mode would make use of the GPS and GSM features that are already built into the phone but again apply a real world play benefit.
In other aspects, users playing a game on the electronic device with the projectile launcher will be able to populate stats on an online leaderboard based on the performance during the game. The server hosting the online leaderboard will rank players based on performance of the physical play of the game.
Referring now to FIGS. 16H and 16I, there is shown in one embodiment of the invention a flow chart of the process for the software application that can be downloaded and run on the electronic device used to interact with the launcher. The flow diagram allows users to login 1100 and immediately play solo games 1115, create profiles 1120, or login to the main menu 1125. From the main menu 1125, the user can select games 1130, review the leaderboards 1135, or access the armory 1140. The armory 1140 permits the user to select and/or buy different augmented guns, ammo, and accessories for use in the games. The leaderboards 1135 may be typically generated on a daily or weekly basis and are compiled from users scores that are loaded up to the main server from the users electronic devices.
For the game selection menu 1130, the user can immediately go to a solo game 1150, create a new game 1155 or join an existing game 1160. Once the selections have been made, the electronic device will display a heads up display 1170 that may provide the user with various information data. These could include an area map with GPS locations of various friendly or enemy players, locations of flags, or topography references. In addition, power-ups, life grids, and player names may be listed on the HUD. Depending on the game being played, the electronic device could begin scanning surfaces for QR codes in order to bring up targets for the user to fire projectiles towards. As noted above, various game modes and activities may be accomplished by a HUD display that provides for an augmented reality play pattern on the electronic device with a projectile launcher as described herein. Referring now to FIGS. 16J and 16K, various HUD displays are shown on an electronic device 130. These are but one embodied representation and the actual display may change depending on user preferences or application renderings. The electronic device is running a software application to create the HUD display 2000 overlaid actual images seen through the front camera lens of the device 130. The software application could also overlay virtual mages overlaid on top of the actual images seen through the camera, such as when reading QR codes or similar codes. The HUD display 2000 may include various aspects such as a directional compass reading 2005, a height angle reading 2010, which displays the height in which the camera is focused off of a level horizontal plan, a centered targeting area 2015 and a radar display 2020 to indicate friendly or enemy targets in a particular range from the electronic device. In other aspects the HUD display 2000 can move the radar display 2020 to overlay the centered targeting area 2015. Menu options and displays are also accessible through the HUD display by touching the appropriate sections of the display screen 2025. When the electronic device 130 is mounted, the electronic marker would have contact with the marker section 2030 on the display screen.
Various menu options could include the ability to add various attributes that effect other third party applications, for example, interaction between multiple electronic devices could add attributes that affect other third party electronic devices from scanning glyphs, recognizing your GPS location on their radar for a particular time, attacks their GPS location in order to remove the third party from the game, removes your location from their radar for a predetermined period of time, revives your health and position in the game, locks a current GPS location in the third party radar to provide you with an opportunity to move without being seen, scrambles theft radar for a period of time to pop up ghost radar locations, provide an electronic virus to their radar to render their radar useless for a predetermined period of time, or listen in to opposing teams communications for a predetermined period of time. Other options could include changing the HUD display, sounds, etc.
Various aspects are provided by the electronic device and the running of software applications to enhance the overall gaming experience to the user, such as interactive heads up display, live chat between players, vision modes, and more. The HUD display can also track ammo, such that you can obtain real feedback on how many projectiles you have left before the user must reload. An ammo counter can be displayed on the screen which matches the number of projectiles in a fully loaded magazine. As the user launches a projectile and the blow-back mechanism marks a projectile on the screen, the ammo counter reduces. When it hits zero, the user must reload and then re-set the ammo counter.
Referring now to FIGS. 17A through 17B, there is provided a projectile launcher 1200 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. As described herein similar components may include similar naming references but with different reference numbers. The functions will however, typically be similar.
The projectile launcher 1200 includes a central body 1225 with a defined muzzle front end 1205, a shoulder butt end 1215 extending from the rear end 1217 of the body 1225, a handle grip 1210 with a trigger mechanism 1230, and a magazine compartment mechanism 1220 removable from a central portion 1235 of the body 1225. Similar to the other embodiments, the projectile launcher 1200 includes an electronic device holder mechanism 1235 configured to securely hold an electronic device 1240, such as a smartphone, to the top portion 1245 of the body 1225. In addition, the projectile launcher 1200 includes a front pump mechanism 1250, which can be used instead of the trigger mechanism 1230 to launch projectiles.
Referring now also to FIGS. 18A and 18B, the shoulder butt end 1215 includes a butt plate 1252 secured to the heel 1254 of the launcher 1200. The stock portion 1256 is adjustable and is able to extend away from the rear end 1217 of the body 1225. This is accomplished by having an outer stock portion 1256 slidably engaged about a fixed inner stock portion 1258. The inner stock portion 1256 is provided with a plurality of stock notches 1260 while the outer stock portion 1256 includes a pivotal tab 1262. When the pivotal tab 1262 is engaged into a stock notch 1260, the length of the stock is fixed, and conversely when the pivotal tab 1262 is disengaged, the outer stock portion may be adjusted.
Referring to FIG. 19, as mentioned above, the magazine compartment mechanism 1220 is removable from the magazine well 1270 that extends from the central portion 1235 of the body 1225. A unique aspect of the magazine compartment mechanism 1220 is that it holds two magazine compartments of projectiles 317. One of the compartments is configured to charge the projectiles from the top portion 1272 of the mechanism 1220, while the other is configured to charge the projectiles from the bottom portion 1274. The mechanism 1220 is designed to be flipped such that the top/bottom portion is relative to the position of the inserted mechanism 1220.
Referring now also to FIGS. 20A through 20D, the magazine compartment mechanism 1220 includes a two piece housing 1280, which includes a magazine locking tab 1282 on and a magazine release tab 1284 on both sides of the mechanism housing 1280. When inserted into the magazine well 1270 the magazine locking tab 1282 locks against a well projection 1284 (illustrated in FIG. 21) on the inside of the magazine well 1270. To release the magazine compartment mechanism 1220 the user presses the magazine release tabs 1284, which presses the magazine locking tab 1282 inwardly to disengage the well projection 1284.
With one of the housing 1280 removed, it can be easily illustrated that the two magazine compartments 1290 are situated within the housings 1280 and one of which is upside down with respect to the other. The magazine compartments 1290 each include (as described above) magazine compartment housings 1292, a projectile loading rod 1294, projectiles 317, a spring 1296 and loading base 1298 and an end cap 1299. The magazine compartments 1290 are moveable within the compartment mechanism 1220 in order to allow (as mentioned above) the movement of the compartment while a projectile is being stretched. Once launched the spring 1296 returns the compartment mechanism into launching position and moves the next projectile into an initial position for stretching. In addition, the compartment mechanism 1220 includes a launching window 1302 and a flange 1304. When stretching, a pivot lever 1400 (FIGS. 24 and 25C) on the launcher 1200 will engage on press down onto the flange 1304 moving the magazine compartment downwardly. This permits the projectile 317 to be stretched without and then launched through the window without interference.
The pivot lever 1400 includes, a stem base 1404 with an upstanding arm 1402 that is tapered to provide a ramp. The stem base 1402 abuts the flange 1304. A pivot engagement member 1406 is secured to the trigger mechanism and will move rearwardly as the trigger mechanism moves. As the pivot engagement member 1406 moves, it engages the ramp and pushes the pivot lever 1400 downwardly forces the flange 1304 and magazine compartment to move therewith.
With further reference to FIGS. 22A and 22B, the electronic device 1240 is securely hell in place by the electronic device holder mechanism 1235. As with previous embodiment, the electronic device holder mechanism 1235 includes a lower portion 1310 with arms 1312 extending therefrom. The arms 1312 are captured by interior regions of a two piece barrel cradle 1314, which is secured about the barrel 1320 of the launcher 1200. To remove the electronic device holder mechanism 1235, the user would press a portion of the arms 1312, which are accessible through windows 1316 on the barrel cradle 1314.
As illustrated in FIG. 23, the two piece barrel cradle 1314 is secured about the barrel 1320 of the launcher 1200. A central barrel cradle member 1318 is also provided to position the two piece barrel cradle 1314 over the barrel in the proper position. And as further illustrated in FIG. 24, the body 1225 is comprised of a two piece body housing 1330.
Referring now to FIG. 25A and 25 b, there is also provided a calibration mechanism 1340 to permit the user to adjust the amount of stretching a projectile undergoes before launching. The calibration mechanism 1340 is similarly configured to the previous embodiment and therefore includes a calibration lever 1342, a control member 1344, and a slideable calibration table 1346. The control member 1344 is used to slide the calibration table 1346 which includes detents on the top to engage and secure the calibration lever 1342, locking the calibration table 1346 in place. The calibration table 1346 includes a calibration level 1348 that is engaged by the head 1352 of the rearward projectile launching lever 1350. As the rearward projectile launching lever is moved with the movement of the triggering mechanism the head 1352 rides against the calibration level 1348. Once the head passes the level 1348, the rearward projectile launching lever 1350 will pivot releasing the back end of the projectile, thus allowing the projectile to launch forwards. The adjustment of the calibration table 1346 adjusts the length of travel of the rearward projectile launching lever 1350 and thus the amount of stretching exhibited onto the projectile.
Referring now also to FIGS. 26 through 27D, the launching of the projectile is accomplished by pulling or moving the trigger mechanism rearwardly towards the butt of the launcher 1200. In a first instance, the trigger mechanism 1230 can be moved by pulling back on the front pump mechanism 1250. This is accomplished by having the front pump mechanism 1250 consist of a front pump handle 1500 connected to a front pump frame 1502 that rests in the body of the launcher. The front pump frame 1502 connects the front pump handle 1500 to the trigger mechanism 1230, such that pulling back on the front pump mechanism 1250 pushes back onto the trigger mechanism. In some aspects that front pump frame 1502 includes a back section 1504 that abuts a portion 1506 of the trigger mechanism 1250, such that movement of the front pump handle 1500 moves the trigger mechanism 1250 but movement of the trigger mechanism does not necessarily move the front pump mechanism 1250.
The trigger mechanism 1230 may also be pulled back by pulling on a finger trigger 1600. The trigger mechanism 1230 includes the finger trigger 1600 secured to an upstanding trigger body 1602 that connects to a rear section 1612 of a first plate 1610. The first plate 1610 also includes a U-shaped upper front section 1514 with a first gear rack 1616 on one of the legs of the U-shaped upper front section and an elongated channel 1618 between the legs. The top end 1620 of the first plate 1610 has secured thereto a push lever 1622, which includes an elongated push arm 1624. The first plate 1610 further includes a guide post 1626 extending along a segment of the bottom section 1628. The guide post 1626 includes a ramp edge 1630 that is angled towards the forward end of the first plate 1610. In addition, the first plate 1610 includes outwardly projecting flanges 1632 about the forward end and which ride in a set of lower channels 1702 defined in either side of a two piece gear housing 1700.
The rearward projectile launching lever 1350 is also pivotally attached to the first plate 1610 about a central pivot location 1634, which is also located by the projectiles. The rearward projectile launching lever 1350 includes a rearward projectile hook 1354 which hooks onto one end of the projectile.
When the trigger mechanism 1230 is moved, the first plate 1610 is moved therewith, which moves the rearward projectile launching lever 1350. The movement of the first plate 1610 will also move the first gear rack 1616, which rotates a compound gear 1640. The compound gear 1640 is rotatably secured to the body housing 1320 and has a first gear 1642 meshed to the first gear rack 1616.
The compound gear 1640 also has a second gear 1644 that is meshed to a second gear rack 1652 positioned above the first gear rack 1616. The second gear rack 1652 is secured to a second plate 1650. The second plate 1650 includes upper flanges 1654 projecting outwardly from either side and that slide within upper channels 1704 defined on the two-piece gear housing 1700. The second plate 1650 further includes an aperture 1656 about its rear end and which pivotally captures prong ends 1682 defined on the forward projectile launching clip 1680. Rotation of the compound gear 1640 (caused by the movement of the first plate 1610) moves the second plate 1650 in a forward direction, which pulls the forward projectile launching clip 1680 forwards. The base end 1684 of the forward projectile launching clip will ride along the guide post 1626 and upwardly along the ramp edge 1630. The front end of the projectile 317 is captured by the forward projectile launching hook 1686. Therefore movement of the second plate 1650 forwards and movement of the first plate 1610 backwards cause the stretching of the projectile 317 which is captured by the forward hook and rearward hook.
Once the rearward projectile launching clip 1350 moves past the calibration level the rearward projectile launching clip will pivot causing the rearward projectile launching clip to pivot out of engagement with the rear end of the stretched projectile, releasing the projectiles potential energy and launching the projectile out of the muzzle 1205. Once released, a rearward projectile spring 1356 connected to the rearward projectile lever 1350 and the first plate 1610 tends to return the rearward projectile hook 1354 in a position to grasp the end of the next projectile.
One of the two piece gear housings 1700 includes a groove 1710 with a peg 1712 extending within the groove towards the muzzle end of the launcher 1200. A gear housing spring 1714 is secured within the groove 1710 and about the peg 1712. An extension member 1716 extending from a side of the first plate 1610 extends into the groove and is position against and end of the spring. When the first plate 1610 moves rearwardly, the spring 1714 is compressed, such that when released the spring tends to return the first plate 1610 to its initial loading position.
The launcher 1200 also includes a blow-back mechanism 1800 that is moveable with respect to a rear section 1900 of the body 1225 or attached to the body 1225 of the launcher 1200. The movement of the blow-back mechanism 1800 is categorized by having a two piece blow-back housing 1802 with a projection 1804 or flange arranged near the front section of the housing 1802. As the first plate 1610 is moved towards the rear of the launcher 1200, the elongated push arm 1624 moves and will make contact with the projection 1804. Since the blow-back mechanism 1800 is movable with respect to the body 1225, the continued movement of the first plate 1610 have contact between the projection and the elongated push arm, the blow-back mechanism 1800 is move towards the rear of the launcher 1200. A blow-back spring 1806 is positioned between an internal wall 1808 of the blow-back housing 1802 and an internal wail 1902 of the rear section 1900 of the body 1225. A blow-back peg 1810 is provided to help secure one end of the spring 1806 in place. As the blow-back mechanism 1800 is moved rearwardly, the blow-back spring 1806 compresses. As such the blow-back spring 1806 will tend to return the blow-back mechanism 1800 upon its release. The blow-back mechanism 1800 further includes a top ledge portion 1812 that is configured to make contact with the electronic marker mechanism 1950, when the blow-back mechanism is in its initial or resting position. The electronic marker mechanism 1950 includes a base 1952, an electronic marking pen 1956 and a marker spring 1954 positioned between the base 1952 and a portion on the pen. When the blow-back mechanism 1800 is moved, the marker spring tends to stretch such that when the blow-back mechanism is released the top ledge portion 1812 makes contact with the base 1952 moving the electronic marking pen 1952 to make contact with an electronic device 1240. The marker spring 1954 helps to ensure the movement of the electronic marking pen 1952 is such that the contact with the electronic device 1240 is a soft touch that does not cause damage to the electronic device.
Thus, it is apparent that there has been provided, in accordance with the present invention, a launcher, which fully satisfies the goals, objects, and advantages set forth hereinbefore. Therefore, having described specific embodiments of the present invention, it will be understood that alternatives, modifications and variations thereof may be suggested to those spilled in the art, and that it is intended that the present specification embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations as fall within the scope of the appended claims.
Additionally, for clarity and unless otherwise stated, the word “comprise” and variations of the word such as “comprising” and “comprises”, when used in the description and claims of the present specification, is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps. Further, the invention illustratively disclosed herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element which is not specifically disclosed herein.
Moreover, the words “substantially” or “essentially”, when used with an adjective or adverb is intended to enhance the scope of the particular characteristic; e.g., substantially planar is intended to mean planar, nearly planar and/or exhibiting characteristics associated with a planar element. Further, use of the terms “he”, “him”, or “his”, is not intended to be specifically directed to persons of the masculine gender, and could easily be read as “she” “her”, or “hers”, respectively. Also, while this discussion has addressed prior art known to the inventor, it is not an admission that all art discussed is citable against the present application.
From the foregoing and as mentioned above, it is observed that numerous variations and modifications may be effected without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concept of the invention. It is to he understood that no limitation with respect to the embodiments illustrated herein is intended or should be inferred. It is intended to cover, by the appended claims, all such modifications within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A toy projectile launcher comprising:

a hollow body defining a muzzle end, a rear portion, a trigger guard region, and a handle, the handle includes an aperture for receiving a removable projectile clip mechanism for storing projectiles in an unstretched state;

a trigger mechanism housed in the body, the trigger mechanism includes a finger trigger extending about the trigger guard region, wherein the trigger mechanism is configured to engage and stretch a projectile when the finger trigger is pulled towards the rear portion of the body, and is further configured to only release the stretched projectile when the finger trigger is pulled past a pre-determined distance from a resting position; and

a blow-back mechanism movable secured about an upper rear portion of the body, the trigger mechanism being further configured to engage the blow-back mechanism as the finger trigger is moved towards the pre-determined distance and the blow-back mechanism is configured to disengage from the trigger mechanism about when the figure trigger is pulled past a pre-determined distance from a resting position to substantially coincide with the release of the stretched projectile.

2. A toy projectile launcher comprising:

a handle for receiving a removable projectile clip mechanism that stores projectiles in an unstretched state;

a trigger mechanism is provided to engage and stretch a projectile when pulled towards the rear, and is configured to release a stretched projectile when pulled past a pre-determined distance; and

a blow-back mechanism is provided and movable secured about an upper portion of the toy projectile launcher, and wherein the trigger mechanism is configured to engage the blow-back mechanism as the trigger is pulled and the blow-back mechanism is further configured to disengage from the trigger mechanism when the trigger is pulled past the pre-determined distance to substantially coincide with the release of the stretched projectile.

3. The toy projectile launcher of claim 1, wherein the removable projectile clip mechanism includes:

a two-piece handle butt,

a magazine compartment having an firing slot positioned along a top portion thereof,

at least one projectile positioned within the magazine compartment and aligned along the top portion of the magazine compartment such that the at least one projectile is configured to stretch and fire along with firing slot; and

a loading mechanism contained within the magazine compartment and configured to position the at least one projectile in the firing slot.

4. The toy projectile launcher of claim 3, wherein the loading mechanism includes a loading rod positioned through an opening defined in the at least one projectile, a loading base slidably positioned on the loading rod and a spring positioned between the loading base and the two piece handle butt and biased to force the loading base along the loading rod and press the at least one projectile upwardly towards the firing slot along the top portion of the magazine compartment.

5. The toy projectile launcher of claim 3 further comprising:

a dip release mechanism configured to release the projectile clip mechanism such that the projectile clip mechanism is removable from the handle.

6. The toy projectile launcher of claim 5, wherein the clip release mechanism includes:

at least one release tab pivotally secured to the handle;

a release arm pivotally connect within the handle and having a lower projecting arm configured to engage an aperture defined in the projectile clip mechanism and further having an upper portion positioned about the at least one release tab, and wherein the at least one release tab when pivoted is further configured to engage the upper portion and pivot the lower projecting arm out of engagement with the aperture to cause the release of the projectile clip mechanism.

7. The toy projectile launcher of claim 1 further comprising:

a two piece muzzle cradle secured about the muzzle end; and

an e-device holder assembly secured to the two piece muzzle cradle and configured to hold an electronic device on top of the launcher.

8. The toy projectile launcher of claim 7, wherein the e-device holder assembly includes:

a lower gripping pad secured to a top portion of the launcher;

an upper holder having a body portion and a top head portion, the top head portion having secure thereto an upper gripping pad positioned over the lower gripping pad, the body portion having a frontend channel with clips extending inwardly towards each other over the frontend channel and the frontend channel further having an outwardly extending flange;

a lower holder having a rearend channel having a groove corresponding to the outwardly extending flange to secure the upper holder and the lower holder together, the lower holder further includes arms projecting into the muzzle end, the arms configured to engage interior portions of the muzzle end.

9. The toy projectile launcher of claim 8, wherein the e-device holder assembly further includes:

a lever is positioned between the upper holder and the lower holder and positioned within the channel, the lever includes notches defined to receive the clips and the lever further includes a pivot pin along a bottom portion which rests in a bore defined on a bottom section of the body on the upper holder, the lever when pressed forces the upper body away from the lower body to allow separation thereof.

10. The toy projectile launcher of claim 8, wherein the muzzle end includes apertures positioned over a portion of the arms, and wherein when the arms are moved away from the apertures, the e-device holder assembly is removable from the muzzle end.

11. The toy projectile launcher of claim 7 further comprising:

a touch marker mechanism configured to move and make contact with an electronic device positioned in the e-device holder assembly upon the release of the blow-back mechanism.

12. The toy projectile launcher of claim 11 further comprising:

a software component application running on an electronic device positioned in the e-device holder assembly and being configured to respond to display touches from the touch marker mechanism.

13. The toy projectile launcher of claim 12 wherein the software component application includes sound and/or image responses.

14. A toy projectile launcher comprising:

a trigger mechanism is provided to engage and stretch a projectile when pulled towards the rear, and is configured to release a stretched projectile when pulled past a pre-determined distance;

a two piece muzzle cradle secured about the muzzle end;

an e-device holder assembly secured to the two piece muzzle cradle and configured to hold an electronic device on top of the launcher;

a touch marker mechanism configured to move and make contact with an electronic device positioned in the e-device holder assembly upon the release of the blow-back mechanism; and

15. The toy projectile launcher of claim 14 wherein the software component application is configured to upload a global positioning update of the electronic device and download global positioning for a secondary electronic device running a similar software component application, and the software component application is further configured to display the global positions relative to each other.

16. The toy projectile launcher of claim 14 wherein the software component application is configured to display images and sounds relative to a game environment for a user to play a game.

17. The toy projectile launcher of claim 14 wherein the software component application is configured to read a quick response code and display images and sounds relative to the quick response code.

18. The toy projectile launcher of claim 17 wherein the software component application is configured to track projectiles launched from the launcher and further configured to display images and sounds when the software component application determines a projectile hit a target.

19. A projectile for use in an projectile launcher comprising a textured surface made of a plurality of polygonal raised surface structures positioned over the entire surface of the projectile.