DEVICE FOR RELEASING CLAY TARGETS FROM A CLAY TARGET THROWER

Abstract

An example apparatus/design is disclosed that mounts to a manual clay target thrower (manual thrower) that allows an individual to electrically release targets. The release of targets can be instantaneous or on a variably time basis. The complete device may be mounted to a bent pipe with a platform and a square tube on the opposite end capable of being mounted in the towing hitch receiver of a vehicle.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/703,027, entitled “DEVICE FOR RELEASING CLAY TARGETS FROM A CLAY TARGET THROWER,” which was filed on Jul. 27, 2005 and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/748,265, entitled “DEVICE FOR RELEASING CLAY TARGETS FROM A CLAY TARGET THROWER,” which was filed on Dec. 7, 2005. U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/703,027 and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/748,265 are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This disclosure relates generally to clay target throwers and, more particularly, to methods and apparatus for automating the operation of clay target throwers.

BACKGROUND

Clay target throwers (also known as clay pigeon throwers/launchers) launch clay targets into the air. In general, clay target throwers include a throwing mechanism and a release mechanism. The release mechanism is typically a lever, a string, and/or a lanyard that is attached to the throwing mechanism. Pulling the lever, the string, and/or the lanyard releases the throwing mechanism. The throwing mechanism operates to launch the clay target into the air.

Two examples of clay target throwers are the full-cock clay target thrower and the three-quarter-cock clay target thrower. A full-cock clay target thrower is loaded by rotating a launching mechanism approximately 180 degrees towards a releasing mechanism. The releasing mechanism locks the launching mechanism in a cocked position until the releasing mechanism is manually activated. When released by the releasing mechanism, the launching mechanism rotates in the opposite direction of the loading movement. The launching mechanism stops rotating after rotating approximately 180 degrees from the cocked position. The full-cock clay target thrower is typically setup/used on the ground by pushing thrower stake legs into the ground or mounting the thrower to a spare tire and rim.

A three-quarter-cock clay target thrower is loaded by rotating a launching mechanism approximately 90 degrees towards a releasing mechanism. The releasing mechanism locks the launching mechanism in a cocked position until the releasing mechanism is manually activated. When released by the releasing mechanism, the launching mechanism continues to rotate in the same direction as the loading movement. The launching mechanism rotates approximately 270 degrees from the cocked position before stopping. The three-quarter-cock style of clay target thrower may be setup/used in various configurations. For example, the three-quarter-cock clay target thrower may include a pivoting base mounted to a metal casting that slides over and is secured with bolts to a square piece of wood or metal. This assembly is typically inserted into the ground vertically. Another configuration includes a pivoting base mounted to a metal structure such as a bench/platform with four (4) legs and an operator's seat that can be set on the ground.

Two people are required to safely operate a manual clay target thrower (e.g., a full-cock clay target thrower, a three-quarter-cock clay target thrower, etc.) in a target shooting scenario. The first person cocks the clay target thrower, loads the thrower, and uses the releasing mechanism to cause the clay target to be launched. The second person is the shooter. The second person loads their gun and fires at the clay targets once they are launched. A shooter cannot properly control his weapon and launch clay targets at the same time.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example implementation of an apparatus for automating the operation of a clay target.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an example implementation of the example processor of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart representative of an example process that may be performed to implement the example processor of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of an example assembly of the example apparatus/design.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example implementation of the control box of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded part isometric view of an example implementation of components that may be used to mount the control box of FIG. 4 to a three-quarter-cock clay target thrower.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a full-cock clay target thrower having the release lever attached.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example schematic of an example implementation of the control box of FIG. 4.

FIG. 9 illustrates the operation of an example three-quarter-cock clay target thrower.

FIG. 10 is a bill of materials for an example implementation of the three-quarter-cock manual thrower example apparatus/design device described herein.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example implementation of an apparatus to automate the operation of a full-cock clay target thrower attached to a full-cock clay target thrower.

FIG. 12 is an illustration of an example implementation of the control box of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is an exploded parts isometric views of the example apparatus/design indicating how the device shown in FIG. 11 may be adapted to a full-cock manual thrower.

FIG. 14 is a bill of materials for an example implementation of the full-cock manual thrower example apparatus/design device.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example implementation of the control box attached to the three-quarter-cock clay target thrower and mounted to a receiver hitch mounting assembly and an example implementation of the control box attached to the full-cock clay target thrower and mounted to a receiver hitch mounting assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An example apparatus 300 for automating the operation of a clay target thrower is illustrated in FIG. 1. In general, the example methods and apparatus described herein may be used to provide automated operation of a manual clay target thrower. In an example implementation, an example apparatus is attached to a manual clay target thrower. The example apparatus includes timing circuitry, an activation trigger, and a solenoid to activate the typically human-actuated or human-activated releasing mechanism of the clay target thrower. A user of the example apparatus selects a desired delay time using the timing circuitry. The clay target thrower is loaded and cocked. When the user triggers the activation trigger of the apparatus, the timing device delays for the desired time and, then, activates the solenoid. The activation of the solenoid triggers the releasing mechanism and causes the clay target thrower to launch the loaded target(s). In other words, a single person can utilize the modified clay target thrower because the timing circuitry allows the user enough time to prepare a gun for firing at clay targets before the clay targets are launched.

The apparatus 300 of FIG. 1 includes a switch 302, a processor 304, a solenoid energizing relay 305, and a solenoid 306.

The switch 302 is capable of enabling or disabling the operation of the apparatus 300. When the switch is set to the off position, the control apparatus will not function. The switch may be any type of switch such as, for example, a toggle switch, a dip switch, a pressure sensitive switch, any type of safety switch, a motion sensor, etc. For example, if the switch is a motion sensor, the apparatus 300 may not operate if motion is sensed near the apparatus 300 (e.g., if a person is standing in front of an attached clay target thrower).

In the illustrated example, the processor 304 receives a trigger input and a timing input. The trigger input may be any type of input that indicates that the apparatus 300 should initiate a timing sequence. For example, the trigger input may be an input from a switch, a foot pedal, a voice activation unit, etc. The timing input may be received from any type of input device capable of supplying a time input. For example, the timing input may be from a user input dial, a digital readout, a set of dip switches, a potentiometer, a toggle switch, a voice activation unit, etc.

When the trigger input is activated, the processor 304 starts a timing countdown. The duration of the timing countdown is based on the timing input setting. When the countdown goal of the timing input has been achieved, the processor activates an output signal to the solenoid energizing relay 305. The duration of the output signal may be based on the factory settings of the processor 304 or may be a user selected value.

The solenoid energizing relay 305 receives the output signal output by the processor 304. When the processor 304 outputs the output signal, the solenoid energizing relay 305 begins storing energy. Once the solenoid energizing relay has stored a factory set or user set amount of energy, the solenoid energizing relay outputs the stored energy signal to the solenoid 306.

When activated, the solenoid 306 (i.e., a releaser) activates the releasing mechanism (e.g., a handle, a lanyard, a rope, a button, or a lever that is typically operated by a human to release clay targets) of the clay target thrower to which it is attached. For example, the solenoid 306 may pull or push a releasing mechanism. Alternatively, the solenoid 306 may be replaced or supplemented with any other type of releaser such as, for example, releasers that may slide, rotate, etc.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an example implementation of the example processor 306 of FIG. 1. The processor 304 includes a counter 402 and a goal 404. The counter 402 is activated by the trigger input. The counter 402 is capable of running a timer until the goal 404 is reached. When the goal 404 is reached, the counter 402 energizes the solenoid energizing relay 305 of FIG. 1. The goal 404 is set by the timing input. The processor 304 may interpret the goal 404 by evaluating a resistance at the timing input, evaluating the input voltage at the timing input, evaluating the input current at the timing input, or any other method of determining a timing input.

Having described the architecture of one example system that may be used to automate a clay target thrower, various processes are described in FIG. 3. Although the following discloses example processes, it should be noted that these processes may be implemented in any suitable manner. For example, the processes may be implemented using, among other components, software, or firmware executed on hardware. However, this is merely one example and it is contemplated that any form of logic may be used to implement the systems or subsystems disclosed herein. Logic may include, for example, implementations that are made exclusively in dedicated hardware (e.g., circuits, transistors, logic gates, hard-coded processors, programmable array logic (PAL), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), etc.) exclusively in software, exclusively in firmware, or some combination of hardware, firmware, and/or software. Additionally, some portions of the process may be carried out manually. Furthermore, while each of the processes described herein is shown in a particular order, those having ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that such an ordering is merely one example and numerous other orders exist. Accordingly, while the following describes example processes, persons of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that the examples are not the only way to implement such processes.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart representative of an example process that may be performed to implement the example processor 304 of FIG. 1. For example, the process illustrated in FIG. 3 may be executed by the processor 304 of FIG. 1. First, the example processor 304 enters a loop to wait for the trigger to be activated (block 502). When the trigger is activated (e.g., a button is pushed, a switch is activated, etc.), the processor 304 starts an internal timing device (block 504). The processor 304 then enters a loop to wait for the timing goal to be reached (block 506). When the timing goal is reached, the processor 304 activates the solenoid energizing relay 305, which energizes solenoid 306 to activate the releasing mechanism of a clay target thrower (block 508). After the throwing arm has been released by the solenoid 306, control returns to block 502 to wait for the next activation of the trigger.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example assembly of the example apparatus/design. The specific size, style, type and grade of bolt, washer and nut for mounting components may vary. For example, the fasteners could be plated (zinc, black oxide or cadmium), stainless steel, plastic, etc. Further consideration should be given to the type of nut used. Due to the amount of vibration generated when a target is released from a manual thrower, a nylon insert, a spring, a serrated-flange, a center lock, a jam or an anti-vibration type nut, or any other type of nut may be used. Chemical thread locker and retaining compounds may be used.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 4, an implementation of the apparatus 300 is attached to a three-quarter-cock clay target thrower 20. The clay target thrower 20 uses stored energy from an extension spring 20a to rotate a throwing arm 20e that deploys clay target(s). The bolt end of the extension spring is inserted into a hole in the stationary mount 20b that is part of the thrower base 20c with a nut and washer. The other end of the extension spring 20a is inserted into a hole in the offset shaft strap 20d. The offset shaft strap 20d is installed on the offset shaft 20k of a cam mechanism 20f. The throwing arm 20e is connected to the center shaft 20g of the cam mechanism 20f. The center shaft 20g goes through a one-way bearing/clutch type mechanism 20h housed in the thrower base 20c. When the throwing arm 20e is at the 180 degree position (see REF 2 FIG. 9), the extension spring 20a has no tension and can be connected to the offset shaft strap 20d on the offset shaft 20k of cam mechanism 20f then secure the extension spring 20a to the stationary mount 20b. By rotating the throwing arm 20e counterclockwise the extension spring 20a begins to extend and storing energy. From this point the throwing arm 20e will be held in position by the one-way bearing/clutch type mechanism 20h preventing the throwing arm 20e from returning clockwise. Loading/cocking is accomplished by rotating the throwing arm 20e counterclockwise from the 180 degree (fully released) position. The one-way bearing/clutch type mechanism 20h will prevent the throwing arm 20e from returning clockwise to about the 250-270 degree position. After that, the extension spring 20a will rotate the throwing arm 20e counterclockwise to the cocked position. The cocked position is when the throwing arm rest 20j meets the throwing release lever 20i. By pulling back the release lever 20i, the throwing arm 20e is released, deploying target(s) and will rotate approximately 270 degrees counterclockwise to the three-quarter cocked position. This three-quarter cocked position partially extends the extension spring 20a storing energy. The one-way bearing/clutch type mechanism 20h prevents the extension spring 20a from discharging its partially stored energy and returning the throwing arm 20e to the 180 degree fully released position. Hence the throwing arm 20e is partially cocked in the process.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the control box 112 is attached to U-channel 223. U-channel 223 is attached to the three-quarter-cock clay target thrower 20. An electric solenoid 103 is mounted in the control box 112 and connected to the release lever 20i of the three-quarter-cock clay target thrower 20 using cup point set screw 228 and clamp assembly 229. The control box 112 includes an input connection 114 to an optional remote switch (e.g., a foot switch, a remote control, etc.). The control box 112 also includes an input for electrical power 108, which is connected to power cord 107 and power connector 109 (e.g., a cigarette lighter adapter, a power plug, etc.).

FIG. 5 illustrates an example implementation of the control box 112 of FIG. 4 that may be used to automatically control a three-quarter-cock manual thrower. This is an example of the types of components that may be used and how they may be assembled in a housing. FIG. 5 illustrates several views showing the back, right side, left side, interior, and cover of the control box 112. The electric solenoid 103 is shown offset due to the offset of the release lever 20i on the three-quarter-cock clay target thrower of FIG. 4 and potential interference with the throwing arm. The offset may not be necessary if a different style of linkage is used and/or the distance is varied between the electric solenoid 103 and the release lever 20i of the three-quarter-cock clay target thrower 20 of FIG. 4. On a three-quarter-cock clay target thrower, it may be necessary to vary the component location in the control box and on the cover to adapt to various manufacturers three-quarter-cock clay target thrower designs. For example, the throwing arm may have a flat piece of plastic in the throwing arm extrusion that rests against the release lever 20i. Offsetting the electric solenoid 103 may reduce the dimensional precision for alignment between the electric solenoid 103 and the release lever 20i of FIG. 4.

The control box 112 interior houses a relay 101 that may have a timing function and a solenoid-energizing relay 104. The timing function may be implemented by a pneumatic, solid state, microprocessor or other electric/electronic device and may possibly have a control relay integral to the device and possibly encapsulated in epoxy, thus eliminating the need for lubrication of moving parts, calibration of cams, cam switches, and the mechanical wear associated with electro-mechanical devices used for time delay. The solenoid-energizing relay 104 may or may not be required based on the requirements of the solenoid 103. The control devices shown in control box 112 may vary in features or style and may be located and mounted in a different fashion in the housing and on the housing cover. For example, the rocker switch 110 (referred to as the control box power switch) could be illuminated when power is present to the control box 112 or when the rocker switch 110 is in the “ON” position. This indication may also serve as a safety/troubleshooting feature giving a visual indication of the status of the control box 112. An audible device to provide, for example, alert tones is another option. The power switch may be optional. In the example apparatus, the “RELEASE” pushbutton is a momentary contact style switch. When a user is ready to release a target, they energize the relay(s) 101 and/or 104 or the time delay device by depressing the pushbutton. If a timing device is used, a target release would be delayed based on the setting of potentiometer 106 via knob 105 or another type of variable resistance device. The time delay units can be controlled in seconds, minutes, hours, etc. The timing durations could be varied pneumatically, manually or electronically depending on the device used. If a microprocessor style time delay is used, the programming of the microprocessor for different timing ranges is typically done by the device manufacture and downloaded in the microprocessor prior to shipment. Other styles of devices such as toggle switches, remote pushbuttons, or foot switches could be used to activate the releasing mechanism of a clay target thrower. If a time delay is not desired, the elimination of the timer and relay is possible.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded part isometric view of an example implementation of components that may be used to mount the control box 112 to a three-quarter-cock clay target thrower. The gray cross hatched lines denote the three-quarter-cock clay target thrower 20 to which the example control box 112 is being attached. The black lines denote the example implementation of the control box 112.

An example method for mounting/attaching an example apparatus/design device to a three-quarter-cock clay target thrower such as the three-quarter-cock clay target thrower referenced above is described below. As shown in FIG. 6, U-channel 223 may be used to support the control box 112. The U-channel 223 may be mounted to the thrower base with the release lever 20i mounting bolts. The control box 112 houses several control devices that are explained in detail and shown in FIG. 5. The U-channel 223 may be made from ferrous, non-ferrous, or non-metallic materials such as, for example, aluminum. The U-channel 223 may be mounted to the three-quarter-cock thrower base utilizing three (3) bolts provided by the three-quarter-cock manual thrower manufacture for securing U-channel 223 to thrower base. Any other type of fasteners may be used. The control box 112 may be mounted to thrower base and U-channel 223 with several bolts and washers. The thrower release lever 20i may be connected to control box 112 via aluminum clamp assembly 229 and the armature shaft portion of the electric solenoid 103. This sub-assembly of parts could be assembled by inserting the stud eye into the electric solenoid armature shaft, then inserting the eye end of the stud eye into the clevis of the aluminum clamp assembly 229, and completing assembly by installing washers on the head side of shoulder bolt, pushing the shoulder bolt through both slots in the aluminum clamp assembly 229 and hole in stud eye. Lastly washers and nuts are installed the threaded end of the shoulder bolt. The aluminum clamp assembly 229 can then be clamped to release lever 20i by tightening set screws. The armature shaft of the solenoid may be inserted into the electric solenoid prior to assembly of the sub-assembly detailed above.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a full-cock clay target thrower having the release lever 20i attached. As shown in FIG. 7, the release lever 20i impedes the motion of the throwing mechanism of the full-cock clay target thrower until the release lever 20i is pivoted to release the throwing mechanism.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example schematic of an example implementation of the control box 112. The example control box 112 includes an accessory plug and power cord 802, a fuse 804, a switch 806, a first diode 808, a capacitor 810, a potentiometer 812, a timer 814, a pushbutton 816, an input plug 818, a relay 820, a second diode 822, and a solenoid 824.

In the example implementation, the accessory plug and power cord 802 transmit electrical power to the control box 112. The accessory plug and power cord 802 may be plugged into the accessory outlet of a vehicle such as, for example, a truck, a car, an all-terrain vehicle, a snowmobile, etc. The example accessory plug and power cord receives a 12 volt DC input. Alternatively, the accessory plug and power cord 802 may be replaced by any other source of electrical power. For example, the accessory plug and power cord 802 may be replaced by a cord connected directly to a battery, a plug and cord for a household power outlet, a direct connection to a solar power source, etc.

In the illustrated example, the fuse 804 provides over-current protection to the control box 112. If the current flowing through the accessory plug and power cord 802 exceeds the rated limit of the fuse, the fuse will sever the connection between the electrical power source and the control box 112. While the example fuse 804 is illustrated as a discrete component any other implementation may be used. For example, the fuse 804 may be integrated in the accessory plug of the accessory plug and power cord 802. In addition, the accessory plug and power cord 802 may include any other type of current limiting protection such as, for example, an overload breaker.

In the illustrated example, the switch 806 enables a user of the control box 112 to disconnect electrical power from the control box 112. For example, a user may disconnect power when the device is not in use or may disconnect power while loading a connected clay target thrower to ensure that the clay target thrower does not release at an inappropriate time. The switch 806 may be illuminated to clearly indicate to a user the state of the switch 806. For example, the switch 806 may be illuminated when switched to “on” and darkened when switched to “off.” Alternatively, a non-illuminated switch may be used. If a non-illuminated switch is used, the control box 112 may include a discrete light emitting diode or other indication component to indicate the state of the switch 806.

In the illustrated example, the first diode 808 prevents current from flowing from the capacitor 810 towards the accessory plug and power cord 802 when the solenoid is discharging. The type of diode selected is dependent on the current and voltage specifications of the control box 112.

In the illustrated example, the capacitor 810 prevents fluctuations in the electrical power provided to the timer 814. When electrical power is first applied to the control box 112, the capacitor 810 stores energy. The solenoid 824 draws electrical power from the connected power source when activated. To prevent the timer 814 from receiving too little electrical power, the capacitor 810 discharges during activation of the solenoid 824.

In the illustrated example, the potentiometer 812 provides adjustment of the duration of time that the control box 112 delays prior to activating the releasing mechanism of an attached clay target thrower. The range of values supported by the potentiometer 812 is based on the specifications of the manufacture of the timer 814 circuit. Alternatively, a resister having a resistance matching the manufacturer specifications of the timer 814 circuit may replace the potentiometer 812 to provide a constant time delay.

In the illustrated example, the timer 814 is an integrated circuit that performs a timing countdown for a duration based on the potentiometer 812 and provides an output signal after the duration. The example timer 814 beings the timing when an input signal from the pushbutton 816 is received.

In the illustrated example, the pushbutton 816 triggers the timer 814 to begin a timing countdown. In addition, the input plug 818 allows a foot switch to be connected that may trigger the timer 814 to begin a timing countdown. Alternatively, any other component that may trigger a timing countdown may be used such as, for example, a voice activated system, a motion sensor, etc.

In the illustrated example, the relay 820 is energized to power the solenoid 822. The relay 820 may not be necessary if the contact rating of the timer 814 can handle the operating current of the solenoid 822. In addition, the control box 112 may include multiple relays to power the solenoid 822.

In the illustrated example, the second diode 820 prevents the occurrence of reverse electro-magnetic force during activation of the solenoid 822.

In the illustrated example, the solenoid 822 activates the releasing mechanism of an attached clay target thrower. For example, the solenoid 822 may retract, when activated, to pull a releasing mechanism of an attached clay target thrower. As previously described, the solenoid 822 may be replaced with a component that may push, pull, or activate the releasing mechanism of an attached clay target thrower in any desired way.

FIG. 9 illustrates the operation of an example three-quarter-cock clay target thrower. REF. 3 illustrates the un-cocked resting position of the three-quarter-cock clay target thrower. REF. 4 illustrates the cocked position of the three-quarter-cock clay target thrower. To cock the three-quarter-cock thrower, the throwing mechanism is moved approximately 90 degrees counter-clockwise and latched with the releasing mechanism. REF. 1 illustrates approximately one-third of the motion of the three-quarter-cock clay target thrower after the release has been activated. As illustrated, the throwing mechanism moves counter-clockwise once released. REF. 2 illustrates approximately two-thirds of the motion of the three-quarter-cock clay target thrower after the release has been activated.

FIG. 10 is a bill of materials for an example implementation of the three-quarter-cock manual thrower example apparatus/design device described herein. The bill of materials is provided as an example. Persons of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that many variations in the specifications and number of components may be made. In addition, it may not be necessary to include all of the components listed. For example, aluminum U-channel 223 may be replaced by a flat metal bracket, the relay 104 may be eliminated, etc.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example implementation of an apparatus to automate the operation of a full-cock clay target thrower attached to a full-cock clay target thrower.

In the illustrated example, the control box 112 of FIG. 4 is adapted to control the operation of a full-cock clay target thrower 21. As shown in FIG. 11, angles 201 and 202 may be used to support the control box 112, which may be bolted or otherwise attached to the full-cock clay target thrower 21. The control box 112 houses several control devices that are explained in detail and shown in FIG. 12. The angles may be made from a ferrous, non-ferrous, or non-metallic material such as, for example aluminum. The angles 201 and 202 may be mounted to the thrower base utilizing two (2) bolts provided by the manual thrower manufacturer for securing the thrower using support legs to the elevation arm. Additional fasteners may be used. After assembling the elevation arm, support legs, both angles, two (2) bolts, washers and nuts; a third hole may be drilled in the elevation arm if a third fastener is used. In the event a third fastener is to be used, the pre-drilled hole in the angle provides the location of the third hole to be drilled in the clay target thrower. After this hole has been located, the hole is drilled and the elevation arm, support leg and angles 201 and/or 202 are attached to the clay target thrower with three bolts. The control box 112 may be mounted to one or both angles 201 and 202 with several bolts, washers, and/or nuts. The thrower release may be connected to control box 112 via bent swivel 204, tie rod 203, roll pin 216 and the armature shaft portion of the electric solenoid 102. This sub-assembly of parts could be assembled by partially inserting the roll pin 216 into the electric solenoid 102 armature shaft clevis, then inserting the eye end of the tie rod 203 into the clevis, and completing assembly by pushing the roll pin 216 through tie rod 203 into the other side of the clevis in the armature shaft. The tie rod 203 would then thread into the bent swivel 204. The armature shaft of the solenoid 102 is inserted into the electric solenoid and the male threaded end of the bent swivel 204 is inserted into the hole in the thrower's release lever/trigger and secured with a nut. Alternatively, the armature shaft length may be increased and the clevis end may be replaced with a threaded male end. This alternative allows the roll pin 216 and tie rod 203 to be eliminated.

FIG. 12 is an illustration of an example implementation of the control box 112 of FIG. 11. The example implementation illustrated in FIG. 12 may be used to automate the control of a full-cock clay target thrower. FIG. 12 is an illustration of one example of the types of components that may be used and how they may be assembled into a housing. Several views of the control box 112 are illustrated in FIG. 12. The electric solenoid 102 is shown offset due to the potential binding between the electric solenoid armature and the release lever/trigger and potential interference of the throwing arm stop that is bolted to the throwing arm. The offset may not be necessary if a different style of linkage is used and/or the distance is varied between the electric solenoid 102 and the release trigger/release. The throwing arm stop latches and holds the throwing arm in the “cocked” position as shown in FIG. 11. On full-cock manual clay target throwers it may be necessary to vary the component location in the control box 112 and on the cover to adapt to various manufacturers manual thrower designs. For example, the throwing arm may have the “stop” notched in the throwing arm extrusion or a separate “latch” that bolts to the throwing arm causing interference with the solenoid linkage when cocking the thrower arm. Offsetting the electric solenoid 102 may also reduce the dimensional precision for alignment between the electric solenoid 102 and the release lever/trigger. Offsetting may allow for the use of generic parts such as the bent swivel 204 referred to on FIG. 11.

The control box 112 interior houses a relay 101 that may have a timing function and a solenoid-energizing relay 104. The timing function may be implemented by a pneumatic, solid state, microprocessor or other electric/electronic device and may possibly have a control relay integral to the device and possibly encapsulated in epoxy, thus eliminating the need for lubrication of moving parts, calibration of cams, cam switches, and the mechanical wear associated with electro-mechanical devices used for time delay. The solenoid-energizing relay 104 may or may not be required based on the requirements of the solenoid 102. In the event that the power rating of a single relay is sufficient, relays 101 and 104 may be combined into a single device.

The control devices shown in control box 112 may vary in features or style and may be located and mounted in a different fashion in the housing and on the housing cover. For example, the rocker switch 110 (referred to as the control box power switch) could be illuminated when power is present to the control box 112 or when the rocker switch 110 is in the “ON” position. This indication may also serve as a safety/troubleshooting feature giving a visual indication of the status of the control box 112. An audible device to provide, for example, alert tones may additionally or alternatively be provided. The power switch may be optional. In the example apparatus, the “RELEASE” pushbutton is a momentary contact style switch. When a user is ready to release a target, they energize the relay(s) 101 and/or 104 and/or the time delay device by depressing the pushbutton. If a timing device is used, a target release would be delayed based on the setting of potentiometer 106 via knob 105 or another type of variable resistance device. The time delay units can be controlled in seconds, minutes, hours, etc. Timing durations could be varied pneumatically, manually or electronically depending on the device used. If a microprocessor style time delay is used, the programming of the microprocessor for different timing ranges may be performed by the device manufacture and downloaded into the microprocessor prior to shipment.

Other types of devices such as a toggle switches, remote pushbuttons, or foot switches could be used to activate the releasing mechanism of a clay target. If a time delay is not desired, the relays 101 and/or 104 may be eliminated.

FIG. 13 is an exploded parts isometric views of the example apparatus/design indicating how the device shown in FIG. 11 may be adapted to a full-cock manual thrower. The gray cross hatched lines denote the full-cock manual thrower 21 to which the example apparatus/design is being attached. The black lines denote the example apparatus/design. Examples of electrical components have been described in FIG. 12.

An example method for mounting/attaching an example apparatus/design device to a full-cock clay target thrower is described below. As shown in FIG. 11, angles 201 and 202 may be used to support the control box 112 and attach the control box 112 to the full-cock clay target thrower assembly 21. The angles 201 and 202 are attached to a spring tie bolt stationary mount 21b and a thrower elevation base 21d of the clay target thrower 20 using bolts 208, washers 209, and nuts 210. Spring 21a is attached to the spring tie bolt stationary mount 21b and the throwing arm assembly 21c. The control box 112 is attached to the angles 201 and 202 using bolts 205, washers 206, and nuts 207. Timer 101 is attached to control box 112 using truss screws 212, washers 213, washers 217, and nuts 214. Relay 104 is attached to the control box 112 using truss screws 211, washers 213, washers 217, and nuts 214. Rubber grommets 116 are inserted in openings on the sides of the control box 112.

Solenoid assembly 102 is inserted through an opening in the control box 112. Tie rod 203 is attached to the solenoid assembly 102 using roll pin 216. Bent swivel linkage 204 is threaded onto the tie rod 203. The bent swivel linkage 204 is attached to the release level 21i using nut 215.

FIG. 14 is a bill of materials for an example implementation of the full-cock manual thrower example apparatus/design device described herein. The bill of materials is provided as an example. Persons of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that many variations in the specifications and number of components may be made. In addition, it may not be necessary to include all of the components listed. For example, relay 104 may be eliminated, the illuminated rocker switch 110 may be replaced by a non-illuminated switch, etc.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example implementation of the control box 112 attached to the three-quarter-cock clay target thrower 20, which is mounted on a receiver hitch mounting assembly 22. FIG. 15 also illustrates an example implementation of the control box 112 attached to a full-cock clay target thrower 21, which is mounted on receiver hitch mounting assembly 22. The three-quarter-cock clay target thrower 20 is mounted to the receiver hitch mounting assembly 22 with a bolt(s) through the elevation leg of the pivoting base. The elevation leg of the pivoting base is typically provided by the manufacturer of the three-quarter-cock clay target thrower 20. The full-cock clay target thrower 21 is mounted to the receiver hitch mounting assembly 22 by bolting the lower half of the base of the full-cock clay target thrower 21 to a top mounting plate of the receiver hitch mounting assembly 22. In the illustrated example, the receiver hitch mounting assembly 22 consists of a bent tube, wherein one end of the bent tube comprises a vertical or horizontal mounting plate and a second end comprises a tongue. The tongue of the receiver hitch mounting assembly 22 may be inserted into the towing receiver of a vehicle. Alternatively, any type of apparatus capable of attachment to a vehicle towing receiver to provide a support for a clay target thrower may be used. In addition, control box 112 may be attached to a clay target thrower using any type of support including a support that is not attached to a towing receiver of a vehicle. The material used for the receiver hitch mounting assembly 22 may be steel. Alternatively, other types of ferrous and non-ferrous materials could be used. Aluminum, for instance, may be used in lieu of steel provided that the wall thickness/gauge is sufficient.

Claims

1. An apparatus for automating the operation of a manual clay target thrower, the apparatus comprising:

a releaser for attaching the apparatus to a manual releasing mechanism of the manual clay target thrower and for activating the manual releasing mechanism of the manual clay target thrower;

a timer for delaying prior to activating the releaser; and

a bracket for attaching the apparatus to the manual clay target thrower.

2. An apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein the releaser is a solenoid.

3. An apparatus as defined in claim 2, wherein the releaser further comprises a relay for activating the solenoid.

4. An apparatus as defined in claim 1, further comprising a housing containing the releaser and the timer.

5. An apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein the timer is a processor.

6. An apparatus as defined in claim 5, wherein the processor is programmed to receive a timing goal input, to delay for an amount of time associated with the timing goal input, and, after delaying, to activate the releaser.

7. An apparatus as defined in claim 1, further comprising a power source attached to at least one of the timer or the releaser.

8. An apparatus as defined in claim 1, further comprising a linkage for attaching the releaser to the manual releasing mechanism of the clay target thrower.

9. An apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein the manual releasing mechanism is a human-actuated manual releasing mechanism.

10. An apparatus for automating the operation of a manual clay target thrower, the apparatus comprising:

a solenoid operatively coupled with a manual releasing mechanism of the manual clay target thrower, the solenoid for activating the manual releasing mechanism of the manual clay target thrower;

a processor programmed to receive a timing goal input, to receive a trigger input, and, when the trigger input is activated, to delay for a time period associated with the timing goal input and, then, to activate the solenoid;

at least one of a button or a switch for generating a trigger input;

a power source;

a housing enclosing the processor and having the solenoid, the at least one of the button or the switch, and the power source attached thereto; and

a bracket attached to the housing for attaching the apparatus to the manual clay target thrower.

11. An apparatus as defined in claim 10, wherein the bracket comprises U-channel.

12. An apparatus as defined in claim 10, wherein the bracket is to be attached to the manual clay target thrower using at least one bolt.

13. An apparatus as defined in claim 10, wherein the bracket is to be attached to the manual clay target thrower using at least one weld.

14. An apparatus as defined in claim 10, further comprising a manual clay target thrower.

15. An apparatus as defined in claim 14, wherein the manual clay target thrower is at least one of a full-cock clay target thrower or a three-quarter-cock clay target thrower.

16. An apparatus as defined in claim 14, further comprising a support attached to the manual clay target and attached to a vehicle.

17. An apparatus as defined in claim 10, wherein the power source is a portable power source.

18. An apparatus as defined in claim 10, wherein the power source is at least one of a 12-volt battery or a vehicle alternator.

19. An apparatus as defined in claim 10, further comprising a linkage for attaching the solenoid to the manual releasing mechanism of the manual clay target thrower.

20. An apparatus as defined in claim 10, wherein the manual releasing mechanism is a human-actuated manual releasing mechanism.