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: A transparent disk rotates in relation to a fixed surface having indicia on it in response to weighted darts adhered to a surface on the disk. The indicia on the fixed surface is observable through the transparent disk. A method of resolving the position of the rotatable disk in relation to the fixed disk includes adhering in tie sequence a plurality of such weighted darts, each causing the disk to rotate in turn about its center of rotation and to change the position of previously adhered darts in relation to the indicia on the fixed surface. Where the indicia comprises a pattern of marked areas each having scoring associated with it, a scoring for the corresponding darts can be calculated in accordance with the position of each dart in relation to the indicia as seen through the transparent disk surface.