Abstract: A ball tossing device for use in playing a ball tossing game includes a rod, which is substantially rigid, a basket, which is attached to a front face of the rod proximate to an upper end of the rod, and a cup, which is positioned in the basket and which is attached to a bottom of the basket. The cup is sized complementarily to a portion of a ball to be used in a ball tossing game, allowing the portion of the ball to be inserted into and retained by the cup when the rod is substantially vertical. A rear sight is attached to and extends from the upper end of the rod. The rod can be grasped in a hand of a user, positioning the user to align the rear sight with a target and to launch the ball at the target by one or both of a flick of a wrist or an extension of a forearm of the user.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are described for launching a projectile. Preferred devices comprise two separate platforms that are connected by an elastic cable. Each of the platforms can be secured to one foot or shoe of a user by a strap or other fastener. Once secured, a force can be applied to a projectile that is connected to the elastic cable to thereby stretch the cable in a first direction. Once the force is removed, at least some of the elastic force of the cable can be transferred to the projectile causing the projectile to be propelled in a direction opposite to the first direction.

Abstract: A projectile launching apparatus comprising a frame, a target, and a launcher. The frame comprises a base portion and an upper portion. The target comprises a rim and a projectile receiver. The launcher comprises a projectile saddle and a plurality of resilient cords. The projectile saddle comprises a front surface and a rear surface. The projectile launching apparatus further comprises a means for attaching the plurality of resilient cords to the upper portion and a means for attaching the plurality of resilient cords to the projectile saddle. The front surface is configured to receive a projectile. The projectile receiver is attached to the rim. The rim is attached to the upper portion.

Abstract: A gyrating disc is disclosed having a circular and flat shape with an edge extending perpendicularly around its circumference. The gyrating disc has a weight on the interior or exterior of the edge, or between the center and the edge. When the gyrating disc is launched in a clockwise or counterclockwise manner, the disc achieves a gyrating flight, moving on its horizontal plane and stable at the vertical axis established in the center of the disc.

Abstract: A gaming device for use in a laser tag game comprising a bow shaped body, a string coupled to a pair of arms, and an infrared emitter coupled to the bow shaped body. The infrared emitter is configured to generate an infrared beam when the string is pulled away from the bow shaped body and returned to its original static position. The device may further comprise omnidirectional infrared receivers, flex sensors, lights, speakers, or vibration motors. In other embodiments the gaming device may further comprise a battery, a charging, one or more trigger buttons, one or more control buttons, a display screen, microprocessors, and a wireless transceiver. In other embodiments the infrared emitter comprises a lens and an infrared LED. In other embodiments the gaming device may further comprise a quiver device configured to permit a user to reload shots during the game.

Abstract: An elastic rubber band launching toy gun that uses a new method to launches 24 elastic bands in rapid succession using a simple assembly of only 13 individual parts, and featuring an optional, adjustable, sliding shoulder support stock. It is designed to resemble a Heckler & Koch MP5 firearm, as manufactured by Heckler & Koch GmbH of Oberndorf am Neckar, Germany. The rubber band gun includes a slideable, lockable stock which can be slid and locked into multiple lengths away from the butt of the firearm.

Abstract: An elastic rubber band launching toy gun that uses a new method to launches six elastic bands in rapid succession using a simple assembly of only six individual parts, and featuring an moving exterior slide in order to mimic the action on a real hand gun. The embodiments of this invention do not rely on any mechanism to return the trigger element to a firing position other than the elastic projectiles fired from the device.

Abstract: A projectile launcher having a pair of band securement elements each configured to secure the ends of a band and a pair of members disposed a distance from the pair of securement elements and located to permit the band to wrap about each of the pair of members passing the medial portion of the band between the pair of members to stretch the band toward the drawn condition of the projectile launcher.

Abstract: A handleless slingshot with a folding storage compartment is disclosed. The slingshot does not require that the user grip a handle to shoot it and the folding storage compartment may be removed or omitted if desired. The slingshot includes a storage compartment that can store projectiles (such as steel shot) and/or other supplies. The storage compartment is foldable such that it can be folded into the base of the slingshot to create a compact, portable unit. The slingshot includes a quick-release interchangeable band system that uses clips that matingly engage grooves formed at the ends of the slingshot arms to secure the band. The slingshot includes guard area which protects the web area of the hand when shooting the slingshot. The slingshot moves the thumb and index finger contact points forward of the band to increase stability and eliminate the need to grip a handle when shooting the slingshot.

Abstract: A handleless slingshot with a folding storage compartment is disclosed. The slingshot does not require that the user grip a handle to shoot it and the folding storage compartment may be removed or omitted if desired. The slingshot includes a storage compartment that can store projectiles (such as steel shot) and/or other supplies. The storage compartment is foldable such that it can be folded into the base of the slingshot to create a compact, portable unit. The slingshot includes a quick-release interchangeable band system that uses clips that matingly engage grooves formed at the ends of the slingshot arms to secure the band. The slingshot includes guard area which protects the web area of the hand when shooting the slingshot. The slingshot moves the thumb and index finger contact points forward of the band to increase stability and eliminate the need to grip a handle when shooting the slingshot.

Abstract: A slingshot seat has a frame with a rocker bottom configured to provide a low trajectory and a high trajectory. A seat is mounted on the frame and positioned to allow a user to rock forward on the rocker bottom to a forward position of the low trajectory and positioned to allow a user to rock backward on the rocker bottom and a backward position of the high trajectory. A pair of upwardly extending arms extend from the frame. The pair of upwardly extending arms terminate in a right upper end and a left upper end. An elastic cord is attached to the right upper end and attached to the left upper end. A pocket is mounted on the elastic cord between the right upper end and the left upper end.

Abstract: A handleless slingshot with a folding storage compartment is disclosed. The slingshot does not require that the user grip a handle to shoot it and the folding storage compartment may be removed or omitted if desired. The slingshot includes a storage compartment that can store projectiles (such as steel shot) and/or other supplies. The storage compartment is foldable such that it can be folded into the base of the slingshot to create a compact, portable unit. The slingshot includes a quick-release interchangeable band system that uses clips that matingly engage grooves formed at the ends of the slingshot arms to secure the band. The slingshot includes guard area which protects the web area of the hand when shooting the slingshot. The slingshot moves the thumb and index finger contact points forward of the band to increase stability and eliminate the need to grip a handle when shooting the slingshot.

Abstract: The elastic shooting support device according to the present invention is made up of at least one spiral elastic element arranged on the body of a shooting support, the elastic element being fixed by one of its ends to said shooting support, while the other end is connected to a string that is brought from an idle position to a stretched position by winding and compressing the spiral elastic element.

Abstract: A hand-powered projectile assembly is provided for launching projectiles. The hand-powered projectile assembly includes an elastic projectile pouch, a hollow base ring and a hollow locking ring. The elastic projectile pouch having an open end is attached to the hollow base ring. The hollow base ring is attached to the locking ring. The hollow locking ring further maintains a tight seal with the elastic projectile pouch. The hand-powered projectile assembly further includes a cap to maintain the position of the projectiles inside the elastic projectile pouch. The cap maintains a watertight connection with the hollow base ring. The projectile exits through the open end of the elastic projectile pouch and the hollow base ring.

Abstract: An apparatus for and method of displacing a body, such as a projectile, piston, or the distal edge of a sunshade cover or energy absorbing honeycomb matrix, utilizing momentum generated by the rapid actuation of an active material element, such as a Martensitic shape memory alloy wire.

Abstract: The invention relates to an archery system that launches an arrow from a position that is perpendicular to a direction of flight for the arrow. After release, the arrow rotates to a position that is parallel to the direction of flight to the target.

Abstract: A toy bow assembly that is used to launch toy projectiles. The toy bow assembly includes a bow structure having a first arm section and a second arm section. Both the first arm section and the second arm section have sheathed areas that are protected from ambient light. A central area is disposed between the first arm section and the second arm section. A first elastic element extends through the first sheathed area into the central area, wherein the first sheathed area shields the first elastic element from exposure to ambient light. Likewise, a second elastic element extends through the second sheathed area and into the central area, wherein the second sheathed area shields the second elastic element from exposure to ambient light.

Abstract: A portable device for launching a plurality of retriever dummies is described. The device is light-weight, portable, can be remotely triggered, and requires only a single person to operate. The device has a plurality of legs secured to a main beam and at least one strut extending from the main beam. The legs are preferably articulated and can function as struts. Elastomeric bands extend from a basket to the strut, through a pulley, and back to an anchor. The bands are stretched so that the basket can be fastened to a release mechanism. A retriever object can be placed in the basket. An operator can distance himself from the device and, using a remote control, disengage the fastener from the release mechanism so that the object is launched. The release mechanism is capable of retaining an elastomeric band under high tension while permitting its release using a low voltage electric motor.

Abstract: A system and method for placing game attractant in a hunting area includes a projectile containing game attractant and a launcher for launching the projectile into the hunting area. The projectile may include a wicking material containing game attractant and the method may include the steps of soaking the projectile in game attractant, loading the projectile into the launcher, and launching the projectile into the hunting area.

Abstract: A toy projectile is provided which is preferably constructed of TPR, and thus, can be used as an inherently stretchable elastic toy projectile. A handle section is also provided which can be used as a projectile launcher. Further, a storage container is also provided which can also act as a projectile launcher. In a preferred embodiment, a game is also described in which the projectiles are launched by hand, or with the handle or by the storage container/launcher, in order to impact targets, and preferably moving targets. A child's toy projectile and projectile launcher, with a game, are thereby provided.

Abstract: A hand-held drive-in tool (10) for fastening elements (60) includes a driving unit (30) for a drive-in ram (13) which is displaceably mounted in a guide (12), and has at least one driving element for the drive-in ram (13) formed by an elastomeric band (31) and tensioned by a tensioning device (70).

Abstract: The present invention relates to an arrow shooting device, and more specifically to, a new arrow shooting device and a draw weight adding method, wherein an arrow is shot not by a compound arrow or a compound crossbow, which have been conventionally used, but by a rubber band and a differential motion cam. The arrow shooting device according to the present invention is formed in the straight simple shape, wherein, as shown in FIG. 6, the rubber band having superior elasticity is used rather than a limb in the energy storage method thereof and the retraction speed of the rubber band is converted using a differential motion cam or a differential motion cam so as to be suitable for shooting the arrow. In addition, it is possible to additionally hang the rubber band in the state when drawing is finished, or pull the rubber band by means of a winch, so that even people in general may shoot an arrow with a strong draw weight.

Abstract: A missile-launching device is described which is capable of holding an arrow in a ready-to-fire position indefinitely, but which is more compact and less cumbersome than a traditional bow or crossbow. Elastic tubes are used to propel the arrow. An arrow is held in the ready-to-fire position by stretching an missile notch portion between the elastic bands back into a rearwardly extending rest. The missile is held in place at the rear by the arrow notch portion and at the front by a trigger-activated pair of locking arms.

Abstract: A dart gun having a plurality of darts removably connected about a circumferential area of a cylindrical barrel. A spring-biased gear assembly includes an engagement member that is rotatably aligned with the circumferential area of the cylindrical barrel. The spring-biased gear assembly further includes first and second rotary gears having offset teeth. A trigger bar is operable between a first position in abutting contact with the teeth of the first rotary gear and a second position in abutting contact with the teeth of the second rotary gear. A trigger is operably connected to the trigger bar. The trigger includes a forward position that locates the trigger bar in the first position and a rearward position that locates the trigger bar in the second position. Operation of the trigger causes the spring-biased gear assembly to intermittently rotate, thereby causing the lever to disconnect one of the plurality of darts from the circumferential area of the cylindrical barrel.

Abstract: A launching device is described that includes a launcher and an optional snowball forming device. The launching device accepts objects, such as snowballs, and propels them through a generally cylindrical housing energy stored in elastic bands. One embodiment is an automatic launcher that includes an integrated snowball forming device. Uncompacted snow is provided to a hopper. The backwards motion of a handle compacts the snow into a ball and stores energy for launching, and the release of the handle propels the snowball.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a snowball gun toy, for throwing snowballs, the gun comprising: at least one barrel (22); a magazine (28) having a plurality of snowball chambers (30i) in which snowballs (40i) are disposed in order to be fired from the gun, the magazine being rotatable such that each of the chambers, separately, can be positioned to coincide with the barrel; a piston (38), for pushing the snowball present in the snowball chamber (30) that coincides with the barrel (22); a propelling mechanism, for propelling the piston (38); a cocking mechanism, for cocking the propelling mechanism; and a triggering mechanism employing a trigger (14), for releasing the propelling mechanism, thereby pushing the snowball (40) out of the barrel; and a rotating mechanism, for rotating the magazine (28) to place the next snowball chamber (30) to coincide with the barrel (22).

Abstract: The invention relates to an archery system that launches an arrow from a position that is perpendicular to a direction of flight for the arrow. After release, the arrow rotates to a position that is parallel to the direction of flight to the target.

Abstract: A pivoting frame assembly for use with a pitching machine. The pitching machine for pitching balls. The pivoting frame assembly for supporting the pitching machine above a ground surface. The pivoting frame assembly having a first portion for supporting the pitching machine and a second portion configured for contacting a ground surface, these first and second portions pivotally connected to one another.

Abstract: A launcher for a flying cylinder has a elongated guide member to which a base is slidably coupled. In preferred aspects, a pair of resilient elements is coupled at respective first portions to one end of the guide member while respective second portions are coupled to the base. Most preferably, coupling is performed via cutouts in the guide element and the base to permit simple replacement of the resilient elements.

Abstract: The present invention includes a foam dart gun having a cylindrically shaped, typically hollow barrel with a plurality of hooks disposed at a first end of the barrel. Inner and outer elastic bands engaged with one another to form an elastomeric band assembly, which is typically engaged to the barrel at least proximate the end of the barrel opposite a trigger.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a collapsible locking slingshot having a quick-release interchangeable band replacement safety system. The present invention also includes a self-centering, open-pocket slingshot pouch and a unique dual-tapered band. The slingshot collapses into a lockable case, improving the slingshot's safety, and enhancing the protection and longevity of the slingshot's components. The slingshot incorporates a unique shoot-over design in which the arms generally are parallel to the shooter's arm during operation.

Abstract: A device for projecting various types of objects is provided. The device includes a projectile mount configured to hold an object for projecting, a housing with a passageway therethrough, and a retractor mechanism coupled to the projectile mount for movement therewith relative to the housing. At least one resilient member is coupled to the housing and the retractor mechanism, such that when the retractor mechanism is drawn away from the housing, the resilient member stores energy, and relative movement of the retractor mechanism back towards the housing transfers the stored energy into movement of the projectile mount and the object. The device may be utilized as a toy, or for various recreational, military, or rescue purposes. Further, by employing an adaptor on the projectile mount, the device may be configured to project a wide variety of sized and shaped objects.

Abstract: An interactive catapult training device is provided for teaching and demonstrating the principles of problem solving using tools and techniques of applied statistics, Six Sigma, lean manufacturing and other process excellence techniques. The device includes a base and a hub fixed to a position with respect to the base and removable from the base. A swing arm is coupled to and rotatable about the hub from a first angle to a second angle, the swing arm being removable from the hub. A cup is fixed to a position with respect to the swing arm and adapted to receive a projectile, the cup being removable from the swing arm. A spring is coupled between a first coupling point fixed with respect to the base and a second coupling point on the swing arm. The spring provides tension for setting the swing arm in motion from the first angle to the second angle. The spring can be removable from the first and second coupling points.

Abstract: A ball pitching machine having a first “U” bracket having front and rear arms, the first “U” bracket further having rocker beam base spanning between the front and rear arms; a second “U” bracket having left and right arms, each left and right arm having a distal end, the first “U” bracket's front arm comprising the second “U” bracket; a third “U” bracket having left and right arms, the third “U” bracket having sling pinching pivot arms adapted for moving the left and right arms between sling pinching and sling releasing positions; left and right elastomeric ties, each having proximal and distal ends, the proximal ends of the left and right elastomeric ties being respectively fixedly attached to the distal ends of the second “U” bracket's left and right arms; a sling having left and right ends, the distal ends of the left and right elastomeric ties being respectively fixedly attached to the sling's left and rights ends; and a trajectory adjusting carriage fixedly attached to and supporting the first “U” brack

Abstract: The present invention includes a foam dart gun having a cylindrically shaped, typically hollow barrel with a plurality of hooks disposed at a first end of the barrel. Inner and outer elastic bands engaged with one another to form an elastomeric band assembly, which is typically engaged to the barrel at least proximate the end of the barrel opposite a trigger.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a double spear gun comprising: a first spear gun having a top side and a bottom side; a second spear gun having a top side and a bottom side; an upper mounting block having a top side and a bottom side, the upper mounting block top side adapted for releasably engaging the bottom side of the first spear gun, the upper mounting block further including a fastener; a lower mounting block having a top side and a bottom side, the lower mounting block bottom side adapted for releasably engaging the top side of the second spear gun, the lower mounting block further including a fastener; wherein the fastener of the upper mounting block is releasably engaged with the fastener of the lower mounting block. Further the present invention contemplates a housing to accommodate a laser pointer or a flashlight, a housing to receive a power head, a support for holding a spear gun butt, and a spear stopper.

Abstract: A portable pitching machine for pitching balls to a batter. The portable pitching machine convertible from a storage mode to an in use mode. When in the storage mode, the portable pitching machine configured for storage within a container. The portable pitching machine having a frame, a plurality of elastic connectors, a pair of uprights extending from the frame, and a pocket for containing a ball. The portable pitching machine having a seat upon which a user sits, wherein interposed between the seat and the uprights is the open top container.

Abstract: An aiming apparatus for a slingshot. The aiming apparatus comprises a light projecting device adapted to project a light beam. A mounting apparatus is adapted to support the light projecting device on the slingshot and disposes the light projecting device with the light beam directed toward a target of a user of the slingshot.

Abstract: An ice ball launcher simulates the impact of a storm-generated hailstone falling onto a test specimen or structural component exhibit such as a roofing shingle, skylight, automobile panel, aircraft fuselage panel, aircraft wing panel and the like. The launcher includes a tripod base, a rail, a sled, an ice ball holder cup, a manually operable trigger latch assembly, an elastic band and a laser beam aiming device. The ice ball launcher consistently and repeatably projects ice balls at a predetermined velocity and impact energy onto the component sample. The velocity of each ice ball is measured as it transits from the ice ball launcher to the installation mockup, verifying that the ice ball velocity is within a predetermined velocity tolerance range. The measured velocity and known mass of the ice ball are used to calculate the kinetic impact energy on the component sample material, and to determine whether the calculated impact energy is within a predetermined impact energy tolerance range.

Abstract: An airfoil launching system having a rod with a structure attached to a first end of the rod. A pusher holds a ring airfoil and has a sufficient coefficient of friction that the ring airfoil will generally rotate with the pusher and is rotatably and slidably mounted on the rod. Propulsive force is provided by resilient bands connected to the structure outward from the rod and to the pusher outward from the central aperture of the pusher. A grip attached to the pusher is utilized to draw the pusher toward the second end of the rod, thereby stretching and energizing the resilient bands, and also to rotate the pusher and, consequently, the airfoil.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a double spear gun comprising: a first spear gun having a top side and a bottom side; a second spear gun having a top side and a bottom side; a mounting means adapted to combine the two spear guns, the mounting means comprising: an upper mounting block having a top side and a bottom side, the upper mounting block top side adapted for releasably engaging the bottom side of the first spear gun, the upper mounting block further including a fastening means; a lower mounting block having a top side and a bottom side, the lower mounting block bottom side adapted for releasably engaging the top side of the second spear gun, the lower mounting block further including a fastening means; wherein the fastening means of the upper mounting block is releasably engaged with the fastening means of the lower mounting block.

Abstract: An apparatus that simulates punting and place kicking of a ball includes a prosthetic leg having a mechanism in the foot region to seat a ball. The leg is pivotally-mounted to a frame and mechanically coupled with a foot pedal. Downward force on the foot pedal is translated to the leg causing the leg to whip upward and launching the ball with proportional force and speed. In one embodiment, the frame is collapsible/expandable and includes a roller to facilitate transportation. In another embodiment, the leg is formed of pliable material to eliminate the risk of injury in the event of collision therewith.

Abstract: Apparatus for throwing a football includes a pivoting arm supporting the ball and a spring, which preloads the arm to pivot upward and release the football. The arm is rotated manually to a ready-to-throw preloaded position, where the arm is latched by a plunger and released to pivot and launch the ball in response to a command signal transmitted at a distance from the apparatus by a player awaiting the ball. The command signal causes an electric power source to energize a solenoid, whereby the plunger releases the arm, the spring pivots the throwing arm forward, and the ball travels an airborne path to the player.

Abstract: A launch assembly having an elastomeric tube for launching a device is disclosed. To launch the device an outboard end of the tube is movable outwardly along the length of a housing by an extending device, while the inboard end of the tube is restrained by a release mechanism and remains stationary. Thus, as the outboard end moves and the inboard end remains stationary, the elastomeric tube elongates. The tube may be elongated a predetermined amount, at which time the inboard end of the tube is released by the release mechanism. Releasing the inboard end allows it to travel toward the now stationary outboard end with a sufficient velocity to launch the device. The amount of elongation of the tube is related to the amount of possible launch energy. Thus, greater elongation of the tube provides a greater launch velocity, while shorter elongation provides a reduced launch velocity, as desired.

Abstract: An airfoil launching system having a rod with a structure attached to a first end of the rod. A pusher holds a ring airfoil and has a sufficient coefficient of friction that the ring airfoil will generally rotate with the pusher and is rotatably and slidably mounted on the rod. Propulsive force is provided by resilient bands connected to the structure outward from the rod and to the pusher outward from the central aperture of the pusher. A grip attached to the pusher is utilized to draw the pusher toward the second end of the rod, thereby stretching and energizing the resilient bands, and also to rotate the pusher and, consequently, the airfoil.

Abstract: This invention deals with several aspects in relation to training of retriever dogs and conducting field trials and hunt tests. In one aspect, this invention provides a catapult assembly including a launching pouch, tensioning bands for the pouch, and a carriage movable between first and second positions. The pouch and carriage are connected at or near the first position. A machine screw is used for drawing the connected pouch and carriage to or near the second position while tensioning the tensioning bands. A drum is used for automatically feeding a retrieving object into the pouch when at or near the second position. A crossbow release mechanism is used to catapult the retrieving object.

Abstract: A ball launching apparatus is described in which a main frame mounts a ball support sub-frame for adjustable positioning about an axis. A ball carrier is provided on the ball support sub-frame at a radial distance from the adjustment axis. A ball striker arm with a striker pad is mounted for pivotal motion about the axis and moves in a swing path intersecting the ball carrier.

Abstract: A launch assist system for supplementing the launch acceleration forces of a projectile, rocket or missile. An airtight chamber covered by a flexible elastic membrane supports a platform in the center of the membrane; the platform is electromagnetically coupled to a cocking mechanism that withdraws the platform into the chamber. Air within the chamber is removed and compressed to be stored in a holding tank as the platform is lowered into the chamber and as the flexible elastic membrane extends into the chamber. The electromagnetic coupling may be triggered to release the platform to permit the stored energy in the extended flexible elastic membrane, and in supplemental force members, to apply acceleration forces to a launch vehicle; the compressed air stored in the tank is simultaneously released to fill the chamber as the flexible elastic membrane is withdrawn.

Abstract: A portable tennis net post-supported tennis ball-throwing device including an elongated support member with a U-shaped clamp for attaching the support member in an upright orientation to an upright tennis net support post. An elongated rigid throwing rod is pivotally connected at one end portion thereof to the support member by a pivotal connection therebetween. An elongated elastic actuator member is connected to and extends between the support member and the throwing rod at respective positions on the support member and the throwing rod spaced from the pivotal connection. A tennis ball holding member is connected adjacent a distal end of the throwing rod and opens toward the support member to receive a tennis ball placed therein. A resilient stop member is connected to the support member to make contact with the throwing rod as it accelerates toward a final position thereof by the stretched actuator member.

Abstract: A kit for assembly into an apparatus for throwing a whiffle ball comprising an elastic catapult for attachment to vertical posts and a calibrated speed strap for aligning the throw and estimating the speed of the ball. The catapult comprises a pouch with surgical tubing for propulsion and straps with hook and loop tape for affixing the catapult to the vertical posts.