Projectile Holder Or Carrier Patents (Class 124/41.1)
  • Patent number: 10737167
    Abstract: The disclosure provides for systems and methods for determining a pitch rating for a pitch in baseball. The pitch rating can be configured to be indicative of a quality of breaking and non-breaking pitches. The disclosure provides for a detection system that detects the position of the ball. The pitch rating can then be calculated by extracting flight parameters from the detection data and multiplying appropriate flight path parameters by pitch rating coefficients. The pitch rating coefficients can be tailored such that the pitch rating calculation provides a value that is correlated to a subjective opinion on pitch quality provided by an expert. The pitch rating can then be displayed in real time to provide feedback or information about a quality of the pitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Assignee: GREINER AGENCIES INC.
    Inventors: Jarvis T. Greiner, Jason Wilson
  • Patent number: 10471330
    Abstract: A computer-controlled pitching machine in an operative connection with a controller interface controlled by the user, wherein the controller interface can connect with a variety of ball pitching machines and display pitch selection interfaces unique for the particular ball pitching machine. Based on the machine capability and the pitch selected by the user on the controller display, the computer-controller machine automatically pitches a ball according to control parameters determined in the controller. The controller may also include or be linked to a pitcher database wherein a user selection retrieves a saved pitch set for a particular pitcher and the system subsequently provides unique control parameters based on the attributes of the selected pitcher and throw parameters for a particular pitch. Further, the system described provides multiple methods of user input into the system for selecting, creating and saving pitches and pitchers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Inventor: Thomas Joseph Hart
  • Patent number: 10415923
    Abstract: A device for launching a projectile along an intended flight trajectory includes a launching mechanism. The launching mechanism includes first and second pairs of supports supporting a launching cord. A projectile having a longitudinal axis is disposed in the launching cord in a launch position prior to launch such that the projectile's longitudinal axis is perpendicular to a plane in which the launching cord is disposed. As the projectile is launched by the launching mechanism, the projectile rotates such that the projectile's longitudinal axis is parallel to the plane in which the launching cord was disposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Inventor: Richard T. Fields
  • Patent number: 10350476
    Abstract: The present invention provides a screen baseball system including a pitching machine that shoots a baseball, a screen, having a screen hole through which the baseball passes, and a screen shutter including a safety screen configured to close the screen hole. The present invention can fundamentally prevent a safety incident from occurring during a screen baseball game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: REALYAGU ZONE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Seung Jin Lee, Han Jo Kwon, Hyoung Gon Kim
  • Patent number: 10118087
    Abstract: A ball-launching system mounts to a top rim of a roulette wheel and positions a ball launcher configured to launch a roulette ball into the roulette wheel. The ball-launching system includes an outer jaw and an inner jaw which clamp to the top rim. At least a part of a ball launcher extends into a concave bowl of the roulette wheel and facilitates launching the roulette ball directly into a ball track underneath the top rim within the concave bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: Bally Gaming, Inc.
    Inventors: Haven A Mercer, Troy D Nelson, James P Helgesen, Jamal H Kotifani, Georg Fekete, James B. Stasson, Ronald R. Swanson
  • Patent number: 10102346
    Abstract: A playing method for a screen baseball system includes (a) registering a personal rank, (b) transmitting pitching information section, (c) displaying a pitching motion on a screen if a batter at an offense side presses a pitching pedal, and starting a pitching action according to the selected pitch type, (d) detecting a batting action of the batter and transmitting batting detection data to the game management unit, (e) receiving the batting detection data, converting the batting detection data into a trajectory of a batted ball, performing a simulation along the trajectory of the batted ball, and displaying an image on the screen, (f) photographing a batting image of the batter and transmitting the batting image to the game management unit, (g) receiving and transmitting batting image data and the displayed simulation information, and (h) storing the batting image and game information data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Assignee: Realyagu Zone Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Seung-Jin Lee, Han-Jo Kwon, Hyoung-Gon Kim
  • Patent number: 10015951
    Abstract: A pet treat holding device may comprise a head and a plurality of opposable arms. The plurality of opposable arms may be articulably attached to the head and movable between a first position and a second position. The arms may define a cavity configured to receive an end of an elongated treat such as a bully stick. The device may comprise a twist ring that threadedly engages the opposable arms and operates to secure the arms of the device around the inserted end of the elongated treat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: Bow Wow Labs, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Scott Woolwine, Julie Hackett
  • Patent number: 9943739
    Abstract: A game ball throwing machine utilizing a rotating arm to pitch a game ball, able to induce a variety of spins and types of pitches interchangeably. The ball thrower includes a base, a support frame attached to the base, rotating arm mechanism attached to the support frame, a source of power rotating the arm, ball holding means attached to the arm, and a human-machine interface which enables control of ball spin, release point, speed and target location. A novel software program integrates the throwing machine, indexing elements and one or more human-machine interface screens, calculating pitch parameters and converting them to machine outputs to enable customization of pitch variety and characteristics to the same or different locations rapidly with a high degree of accuracy, including means to simulate a known pitcher's unique pitch collection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Inventor: Thomas Hart
  • Patent number: 9750987
    Abstract: A support for balls (2) includes a receiving element (21) provided with a plurality of gripping resilient and arched members (210) adapted to define a gripping volume (211) of a ball. Each gripping member (210) has an end (214) constrained in a joining body (212) and a free end (215), a coupling body (22) adapted to constrain the receiving element (21) to a tubular support structure (100), wherein the coupling body (22) is constrained to the receiving element (21) by a longitudinal spacer element (23), whose first end (2309 is constrained to the coupling body (22) and a second end (231) is constrained to the receiving element (21).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Inventor: Massimiliano Battigello
  • Patent number: 9623304
    Abstract: A thrower includes an elongate arm. A handle is attached to one end of the arm. A retaining device has a base attached to an opposite end of the arm and at least one gripping member extending from the base to define a retention volume together with the base. The, or each, gripping member is resiliently displaceable with respect to the base to permit the retaining device to be urged on to the object to be thrown such that the, or each, gripping member is displaced to permit the object to be received in the retention volume, with the, or each, gripping member subsequently retaining the object in the retention volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Inventors: Hazel Clarke, Joseph Clarke
  • Patent number: 9452340
    Abstract: A ball launcher includes a base and a thrower arm defining a ball cradle. An arm holder is disposed on the base and pivotally supports the thrower arm about a first axis of rotation, the thrower arm spring biased about the first axis of rotation. A rotating shaft defines a second axis of rotation substantially parallel to the fore-aft axis. A ball loader is coupled to the rotating shaft for common rotation about the second axis of rotation, the ball loader defining a ball receptacle. A loader arm is releasably connected to the rotating shaft for common rotation about the second axis of rotation. The loader arm defines a longitudinal axis substantially perpendicular to the second axis of rotation of the rotating shaft and has a length extending away from the rotating shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Assignee: BallFrog Sports, LLC
    Inventors: Kelly Andrew Vaught, Christopher Gene Braniecki
  • Patent number: 9452339
    Abstract: An automated ball launching system is described. The system includes a ball support configured to releasably support a ball in a launch position; a positioning subsystem configured to set a launch direction for the ball; a launcher configured to project the ball in the launch direction from the launch position; and a control subsystem connected to the positioning subsystem and the launcher. The control subsystem is configured to: determine a position of a player relative to the ball launching system; control the positioning subsystem to set the launch direction based on the position of the player; and control the launcher to project the ball in the launch direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Assignee: LILA ATHLETICS INC.
    Inventors: Paulom Shah, Aya Siblini, Kevin Vijay Brijbassi, Joseph Arthur Schipper, Saleem Adil Mohammed
  • Patent number: 8936014
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Inventor: Charles A. Saunders
  • Patent number: 8875689
    Abstract: An apparatus for detecting the dart in a barrel of a toy gun is provided. The apparatus includes a dart sensor lever, a linkage, a transmission mechanism between the dart sensor lever and the linkage, and a pivot attached to the gun body. The dart sensor lever is linked with the pivot so that it will swing around the pivot. The transmission mechanism is linked with the linkage, which causes the linkage to move. Other modifications and features suitable for practice therewith, and methods and means of operating the device, are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Buzz Bee Toys (H.K.) Company Limited
    Inventor: Ma Chor-Ming
  • Publication number: 20140283803
    Abstract: A slingshot having an arrow rest is described. The slingshot includes a handle, a riser unit and a stabilizer unit. The riser unit and the stabilizer unit are attached to a top of the handle. A forward portion of the stabilizer unit extends perpendicular from a top of the handle in a same direction in which an arrow or projectile would be projected from the slingshot. The slingshot further includes a removable arrow rest attached to the stabilizer unit, the removable arrow rest including a cylinder for resting an arrow, a bracket supporting the cylinder, and a receptacle for inserting the forward portion of the stabilizer unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2013
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventor: MATTHEW JOSEPH MACCARRICK
  • Publication number: 20140261361
    Abstract: An elastomeric blow pipe dart (10) including: a generally circular body portion (12); a tapered portion (16) extending from the generally circular body portion (12); and a nose (18) having a smaller diameter than the tapered portion (16) and extending from the tapered portion (16) to a tip (20). The blow pipe dart (10) may comprise a soft rubber, and the nose (18) may define an end bore (26) so that air passes through the nose (18) when the dart (10) is launched.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Ralph Robertson Hepburn
  • Patent number: 8800541
    Abstract: An electric toy gun includes a gun body carrying a piston set and a gear set having a first gearwheel provided with a side pin and rotatable to move the piston of the piston set, the gear set is arranged above the axis of movement of the piston of the piston set, a backlash vibration mechanism for producing a backlash vibration when the electric toy gun fires a bullet, and an attached cartridge carrier, which simulates the cartridge feeding operation of a real gun. The backlash vibration mechanism includes a connection block arranged on the axis of movement of the piston of the piston set, a weight fixedly connected to the bottom side of the connection block beneath the axis of movement of the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Inventor: Shih-Che Hu
  • Publication number: 20140083402
    Abstract: A crowd control projectile includes a payload carrier, an incapacitating agent inside the payload carrier, and an activating mechanism for activating the incapacitating agent. The activating mechanism includes a sensor and a timer. The timer delays the activation until a predetermined delay after the sensor senses that the projectile has been launched. Alternatively, the activating mechanism includes a receiver for receiving an activation signal after the projectile has been launched. Preferably, the projectile has the shape of a clay pigeon. A launcher of such a projectile includes a communication mechanism for transmitting a timing signal or an activation signal to the projectile and an arm for launching the projectile by direct contact. To control a crowd, the projectile is launched over the crowd by direct contact with a solid arm and the activating mechanism is used to activate the incapacitating agent when the projectile is above the crowd.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: L.H.B. LTD.
    Inventors: Ofer Fridman, Yariv Ben Yehuda
  • Patent number: 8662061
    Abstract: A crossbow includes a handle or barrel having a bolt support surface, a forward end with at least one flexible limb, and a rearward end. A support on the barrel overlies at least a portion of the bolt support surface. A bolt retaining spring on the support extends toward the bolt support surface for holding a bolt on the support surface. The retaining spring extends from the support at a downward and rearward angle toward the bolt support surface and then at an upward and rearward angle to a free end between the bolt support surface and the support. The spring preferably is of one-piece construction having a first portion underlying and secured to the support, a second portion extending downwardly and rearwardly from a forward end of the first portion, and a third portion extending upwardly and rearwardly from the second portion and the bolt support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventors: Rex F. Darlington, David McNeil, II
  • Patent number: 8662063
    Abstract: An electric toy gun includes a gun body carrying a piston set and a gear set having a first gearwheel provided with a side pin and rotatable to move the piston of the piston set, and an attached cartridge carrier, which includes a propelling member movable back and forth by the pin of the first gearwheel, a swivel hook member turnable back and forth by the propelling member, a cartridge rack hung on the swivel hook member and movable back and forth with the swivel hook member to simulate the cartridge feeding operation of a real gun and a return spring for returning the propelling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Shih-Che Hu
  • Publication number: 20130263836
    Abstract: A figurine launcher is described. The figurine launcher includes at least two shell components. The shell components are hingedly attached with one another to move between an open position and a closed position. An open mechanism is attached with at least one of the shell components and is adapted to allow a user to selectively separate the shell components when in the closed position. A launch positioning mechanism is attached with at least one of the shell components. The launch positioning mechanism is adapted to engage with a figurine and conceal the figurine within the housing when the shell components are in a closed position. Alternatively, when the shell components are in an open position, the launch positioning mechanism is adapted to move the figurine into a launch position. When in the launch position, the user can compress the shell components to force the figurine from the launcher.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: JAKKS Pacific, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim McCafferty, Greg Leong, Dominic Laurienzo, Rip Lopusnak
  • Patent number: 8522766
    Abstract: A quiver assembly for detachable connection to an archery bow includes first and second releasable locking members connectable to an archery bow and a quiver. The first releasable locking member has a first base portion with a first locking pin located at one end thereof, a first guide block located at an opposite end thereof, and a first receiver contiguous with the first guide block. The second releasable locking member has a second base portion with a second locking pin located at one end thereof, a second guide block located at an opposite end thereof, and a second receiver contiguous with the second guide block. The first locking pin is received in the second receiver and the second locking pin is received in the first receiver and the first and second guide blocks are in mutual engagement when the first and second releasable locking members are connected together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: TruGlo, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul LoRocco
  • Patent number: 8512158
    Abstract: An amusement ride system includes: a shooting device adapted to shoot a projectile; an aiming facility operable by a user to aim the shooting device; and a triggering device operable by the user to fire the shooting device. The user rides the vehicle, aims the shooting device, and fires the device to shoot the projectile. A method for a ride includes: providing a shooting device; providing a plurality of projectiles; and aiming and shooting the projectiles utilizing the shooting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Blammo, LLC
    Inventors: Philip Stephen Bloom, Bing Yeh
  • Publication number: 20130186382
    Abstract: Provided is a shot sensor hooping device for a paintball gun, wherein a shot sensor has an insertion portion and a top end ring. The insertion portion is connected to a receiving hole of a gun body. The shot sensor hooping device includes: a hooping ring disposed above the receiving hole of the gun body; an operation unit disposed on a side of the hooping ring; and a hooped portion disposed between the insertion portion and the top end ring of the shot sensor and corresponding in position to an inner wall of the hooping ring and enclosed therein. The shot sensor hooping device enables the coupling and decoupling of the shot sensor and the gun body to be performed easily and quickly without operating any tool by hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Inventor: Yi Tsong Chen
  • Publication number: 20130104867
    Abstract: Machine for launching targets (6) comprising means for storage of targets, means for delivering a target (6) from the storage means to the delivery area (13), launch area (16) remote from the delivery area (13) and connected to the delivery area (13) by a transfer ramp (12), a launch arm able to apply a launch force on a target (6) in the launch area (16), characterised in that it comprises means for inclining the transfer ramp (12). The invention is particularly suitable for use in launching targets for archery or clay pigeon shooting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventors: Jean-Michel Laporte, Jean-Marc Fouques
  • Patent number: 8376869
    Abstract: An amusement ride system includes: a shooting device adapted to shoot a projectile; an aiming facility operable by a user to aim the shooting device; and a triggering device operable by the user to fire the shooting device. The user rides the vehicle, aims the shooting device, and fires the device to shoot the projectile. A method for a ride includes: providing a shooting device; providing a plurality of projectiles; and aiming and shooting the projectiles utilizing the shooting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Blammo, LLC
    Inventors: Philip Stephen Bloom, Bing Yeh
  • Patent number: 8342161
    Abstract: An arrow rest for an archery bow includes a frame and a vertical post extending upwardly from the frame so that the frame at least partially encircles the vertical post to form an arrow shaft pass-through. The arrow rest further includes a pair of spring arms, brushes and/or rollers extending generally toward the arrow shaft pass-through.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: New Archery Products Corp.
    Inventors: Frank A. Harwath, Robert S. Mizek
  • Publication number: 20120325193
    Abstract: A ball throwing apparatus includes a ball magazine attached to a first end of a ball tube. A ball propelling or throwing assembly is attached to a second end of the ball tube. A retaining element, such as a spring finger, extends into the ball tube from a first side of the ball tube. A holder which may be pivotally mounted on the ball tube extends into the ball tube from a second side of the ball tube. An arm moves through an arm slot in the second side of the ball tube in a reciprocating motion, feeding balls one at a time from the ball magazine into the throwing assembly, in a uniform time sequence.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventors: Jose E. Leal, John Barletta
  • Publication number: 20120240911
    Abstract: An electric toy gun includes a gun body carrying a piston set and a gear set having a first gearwheel provided with a side pin and rotatable to move the piston of the piston set, and an attached cartridge carrier, which includes a propelling member movable back and forth by the pin of the first gearwheel, a swivel hook member turnable back and forth by the propelling member, a cartridge rack hung on the swivel hook member and movable back and forth with the swivel hook member to simulate the cartridge feeding operation of a real gun and a return spring for returning the propelling member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventor: Shih-Che Hu
  • Publication number: 20120192842
    Abstract: A flight track assembly of a crossbow stock having a base component dimensioned to attach to an upper portion of the crossbow stock and a flight track component disposed on an upper surface of the base component. The flight track component is formed by one continuous piece or two rails. The flight track component is secured to the base component by an attachment mechanism. For example, the attachment mechanism is a projection extending from a lower surface of the flight track component designed to slide into a recess in the upper surface of the base component. Alternatively, the attachment mechanism is a projection extending from the lower surface of the flight track component designed to engage a cooperating projection on the upper surface of the base component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventor: David A. Barnett
  • Publication number: 20120152221
    Abstract: A method of refilling a magazine with projectiles formed from a super absorbent polymer, the method comprising the steps of: hydrating the projectiles in a container; mating the magazine with the container; and transferring the projectiles from the container to the magazine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: Hobbeezone, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith G. Meggs
  • Patent number: 8146281
    Abstract: A link for a toy ammunition chain made up of a plurality of links hinged together side-by-side in articulated fashion includes a cylindrical body adapted to receive a soft projectile. A first hinge component extends laterally from the body and has a pair of hinge pins. A second hinge component extends laterally from the body at a position opposite the first hinge component and has a pair of recesses each for pivotally receiving a hinge pin of an adjacent link in the chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Buzz Bee Toys (H.K.) Co., Limited
    Inventor: Jeffrey C. Zimmerman
  • Publication number: 20120060809
    Abstract: A retrofit kit for providing flexible paintball loading mechanism is disclosed. In one embodiment, the retrofit kit includes a right side portion of a receiver, a left side portion of the receiver, and a bottom removable adapter. The right side portion of a receiver having a first feed hatch is able to receive paintballs through an upper loading mechanism. The left side portion of the receiver after coupling with the right side portion of the receiver to form a receiver is capable of coupling to a barrel as well as a pressured gas container. The bottom removable adapter, in one embodiment, facilitates to receive paintballs via a bottom feeding mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventor: Omar Alonso Macy
  • Patent number: 8104459
    Abstract: A sling like apparatus comprising a release cord, retention cord, finger loop, release tab, guide assembly, and basket creates a throwing device that is simple to reset, reload and throw while still retaining the power and accuracy of a traditional sling, thus making it user-friendly for anyone to quickly learn and operate. The retention cord comprises a comfortable finger loop that forks about half way in length into two cords that are each attached to specific and unique locations on the basket. The basket deforms into a form fitting structure that secures around a circular object or ball that may be roughly 2.5 inches or smaller in diameter. The release cord is attached to a particular location on the basket and is fed through a guide assembly. The end of the release cord connects to the release tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Alton Young
  • Publication number: 20110253119
    Abstract: A paint ball arraying device, especially used in a paint-ball gun to feed in spherical paint balls, keeps the paint balls intact and feeds the paint balls in a bore successfully. The arraying device utilizes a flexible loop-shape advancing belt, which is formed with an upright advancing side perpendicular to the bore after being assembled, and is spaced equally with multiple toggle rods, with a receiving slot being defined between every two toggle rods. By the upright advancing side, a space for feeding the external paint balls can be extended to load the paint balls in a large quantity. Furthermore, using the receiving slot, the paint ball contained can be maintained intact independently; the advancing side is upright and perpendicular to the bore that advancing force will not be divided into a component of force explicitly, thus, the paint balls can be successfully fed into the bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Chao-Hsiung Cho
  • Patent number: 8037877
    Abstract: A barrel for prohibiting the paintball from dropping therefrom is provided by the present invention. The barrel includes a main body and an elastic ring. In which, a rear end of the main body is formed with a combining portion to combine with a paintball gun, and an extension is extended rearward from the combining portion. A bore penetrates through the main body, the combining portion and the extension. Around an outer periphery of the extension is disposed an annular groove, and at least one slot is formed in the annular groove, while the slot communicating the bore proximate to the extension. In addition, the elastic ring has a smaller perimeter than that of the annular groove. The elastic ring is disposed in the annular groove, and a part of the elastic ring sinks into the slot, overlapping a part of the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Inventor: Sheng-Jen Liao
  • Patent number: 8021236
    Abstract: An amusement ride system includes: a shooting device adapted to shoot a projectile; an aiming facility operable by a user to aim the shooting device; and a triggering device operable by the user to fire the shooting device. The user rides the vehicle, aims the shooting device, and fires the device to shoot the projectile. A method for a ride includes: providing a shooting device; providing a plurality of projectiles; and aiming and shooting the projectiles utilizing the shooting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Blammo, LLC
    Inventors: Philip Stephen Bloom, Bing Yeh
  • Patent number: 7963278
    Abstract: An apparatus for deploying a bola comprises a hollow outer cylinder slidably housing a hollow inner cylinder. The inner cylinder includes one closed end and houses a payload consisting of a bola consisting of three weights connected by cords, and spacers interposed between said weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Inventor: Gary G. Makowski
  • Patent number: 7958877
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for launching targets, retrieval devices and combination target and retrieval devices, wherein the targets and retrieval devices may be irregularly shaped, such as like birds. Multiple targets are held on a carousel delivery system and eventually moved in a launching position by a push arm. A throwing arm is then rotated, pushing the target along a throwing guide until it reaches a launching position, at which point the target is released for use in shooting practice and/or training retrieving dogs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Inventor: Tom Lalor
  • Publication number: 20110041822
    Abstract: The present invention is a toy projectile launcher in the form of a role play accessory such as a belt. The belt assembly includes a strap, a launcher housing, and projectiles stored on the belt strap. The belt strap feeds through the launcher housing so that projectiles may be launched from the strap. In one embodiment the launcher is hand-held, and includes a handle which serves both as a means for holding the launcher during operation and as a power switch for the launcher. Projectiles may be discharged singly from the launcher or continuously in a rapid-fire mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2010
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Applicant: MATTEL, INC.
    Inventors: Brandon C. Sopinsky, Binh Luong, Steed Sun, Peter Fan, Henry Miller
  • Patent number: 7861700
    Abstract: An improved slingshot pouch with a holding means in which the pouch walls apply equal pressure across the surface of a pressure sensitive projectile. As a result of the uniform pressure on the projectile, it can be fired with confidence that it will not burst or be crushed during the process. The pouch is generally spherically shaped and is formed from a flexible and pliable material. The pouch comprises a triangular handle, a wall, end arms, ribs, and angle arms. The pouch has a smooth inside lining without flex fingers or other projections. The pouch is provided with a triangular gripping element attached in a pigtail fashion at its rearward side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventor: Richard H. Scoggins
  • Publication number: 20100294255
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Applicant: SAUNDERS ARCHERY COMPANY
    Inventor: Charles Saunders
  • Patent number: 7836873
    Abstract: An improved bolt construction for use in a paintball marker assembly is provided. The improved bolt assembly is generally formed to include a cut-out in the top surface thereof along its leading edge. The cut-out has a size and shape that functions in an manner that prevents the bolt from clipping or otherwise damaging a second incoming paintball projectile as the bolt reciprocates forward to ready a first paintball that is already loaded into the breech in preparation for launch. As the bolt is moved forward to push the first paintball into a position that is ready for launch, the leading edge of the cutout passes beneath the second paintball such that the top surface of the cutout impacts the bottom of the second paintball to push the second paintball upwardly as it advances, thereby clearing it from the breech and preventing the bolt from clipping the second paintball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Planet Eclipse Limited
    Inventor: Jack Kingsley Wood
  • Patent number: 7827978
    Abstract: A device is provided for locking a front end of a spear shaft in a spear gun. The device comprises a bridge extending crosswise over a distal end of the gun with a substantially U-shaped nosepiece joined to the distal end and revolving relatively freely about a crosswise axis thereof. The nosepiece includes at least two arms connected to respective ends of a relatively elastic cable that may be tensioned against a rear end of the shaft, when the shaft is placed on a support surface along the body of the gun. The bridge is attached to and integrally with the ends of the elastic cable and is located a selected distance from the support surface such that the shaft is retained against the surface when the spear is in a stowed or loaded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Cressi-Sub S.p.A.
    Inventor: Stefano Pedemonte
  • Publication number: 20100258100
    Abstract: A device for attachment to a chute of a ball pitching machine includes a ball feeder tube having a first end for receiving a first ball. A retaining member is fixed relative to the ball feeder tube and extends transversely to the ball feeder tube into the bore for selectively retaining the first ball in the bore. The retaining member is resiliently deformable toward the ball feeder tube for allowing the first ball to move past the retaining member toward the chute upon application of a predetermined force on the first ball. The ball feeder tube defines a bore having a diameter. The retaining member is spaced along the bore a first distance from the first end. The first distance is shorter than the diameter of the bore so that insertion of a second ball into the first end with the predetermined force displaces the first ball toward the chute.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventors: Mark Kusiak, Leon Woods
  • Publication number: 20100170490
    Abstract: A slingshot pouch is disclosed. The pouch is configured to minimize contact with a projectile when it is being shot, thereby eliminating spin imparted on the projectile. This is accomplished using a pouch design configured to spring open immediately after release of the projectile. Several embodiments of such a pouch are disclosed. The disclosed embodiments comprise hinged members having various shapes, sizes and combinations of slits, opening and pockets configured to avoid imparting spin on the projectile. Also disclosed is a locking clip configured to secure such pouches to a slingshot band.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventor: Charles A. Saunders
  • Publication number: 20100147277
    Abstract: A toy gun for individually shooting soft projectiles has a body and a magazine attached to the body for housing an array of soft projectiles and delivering them individually to a firing position within the body. A firing mechanism in the body fires a first projectile from the firing position. A projectile separator acts upon a second projectile adjacent to the first projectile to at least reduce frictional interaction between the first and second projectiles during firing and to smooth the projectile loading process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventors: Jeffrey C. Zimmerman, Chor-Ming Ma
  • Publication number: 20100126483
    Abstract: An apparatus for deploying a bola comprises a hollow outer cylinder slidably housing a hollow inner cylinder. The inner cylinder includes one closed end and houses a payload consisting of a bola consisting of three weights connected by cords, and spacers interposed between said weights.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventor: Gary G. Makowski
  • Publication number: 20100078003
    Abstract: A sling like apparatus comprising a release cord, retention cord, finger loop, release tab, guide assembly, and basket creates a throwing device that is simple to reset, reload and throw while still retaining the power and accuracy of a traditional sling, thus making it user-friendly for anyone to quickly learn and operate. The retention cord comprises a comfortable finger loop that forks about half way in length into two cords that are each attached to specific and unique locations on the basket. The basket deforms into a form fitting structure that secures around a circular object or ball that may be roughly 2.5 inches or smaller in diameter. The release cord is attached to a particular location on the basket and is fed through a guide assembly. The end of the release cord connects to the release tab.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Inventor: Alton Young
  • Publication number: 20100018884
    Abstract: An apparatus designed to protect the fletchings on arrows while the arrows are placed in a quiver, consisting of two covers made of durable material which may be hinged or attached at one end and lined with foam or a foam-like substance on the interior edges of the covers so as to protect the shafts of the arrows from damage. The covers are then closed around the arrow fletchings, and the entire apparatus serves to protect the fletchings from crushing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventor: Michael T. Greene