Disk launching apparatus and methods

Abstract

Apparatus and methods for launching and resetting a projectile are disclosed. The apparatus may include a launcher, projectile and, in some embodiments, packaging. The launcher configured to impart a rotation to the projectile and to launch the projectile from the launcher. The launcher is configured to automatically reset the projectile on a spindle after launch. The packaging may permit the visualization of the flight of the projectile after it is launched from the launcher.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/906,672 filed Mar. 12, 2008 and entitled Disk Launching Apparatus and Methods, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present inventions relate to projectile launchers and, more particularly, to projectile launchers that permit the resetting and re-launching of a rotating projectile after an initial launch.

2. Description of the Related Art

Flying toys tend to be popular with many children and adults. These toys may use a launcher to confer motion or other energy to permit a projectile to be launched into flight. After launch, the projectile may be reset and re-launched from the launcher. Typically, the resetting of a projectile involves the orienting and engaging of various mechanical components by the user. This can be difficult for certain users and may detract from the playability of the toy. Therefore, a need exists for apparatus and methods that provide for a simple mechanism for resetting a projectile for re-launch from a launcher.

Packaging of products frequently plays an important role in the marketing of products in the retail environment. For certain classes of products, the packaging and presentation of the product and its operation can substantially affect the sales volume of that product.

A wide range of products are sold in retail outlets which are designed to launch projectiles. These products range from tools to sporting goods and toys. Prior packaging systems for products have permitted the limited demonstration of products while in the packaging. These packaging systems have typically allowed potential purchasers to visualize lights and motion, feel vibrations, and/or hear the sounds produced by the packaged product. These types of packaging systems have seen substantial commercial success.

Prior systems have however typically required that the components of the product remain secured or connected to one another by or within the packaging. The prior packaging systems have typically not permitted potential purchaser to actuate and view the launching of a projectile from the packaged product and to observe the motion of the projectile free of the launching device. A number of problems including defining internal spaces for the flight or movement of the projectile after it is launched and released from a launching apparatus, the resetting of the projectile in the launcher to facilitate the demonstration of action to a subsequent potential purchaser, assuring the launched projectile will not exit the packaging, among others, are faced by the manufactures and/or packagers of such products. Accordingly, needs exist for apparatus and methods for packaging products designed to launch projectiles which can permit their demonstration to potential retail purchasers.

A class of projectiles that has proven marketable in the toy market is the flying propellers and flying discs. These are typically launched from hand held or free standing launchers. Frequently, the launcher cooperates with the flying disc or flying propeller such that the flying disc or flying propeller must be secured by hand to the mechanism of the launcher. This can reduce the fun factor and prohibit the ability for the manufacturer to utilize in packaging demonstration. Therefore, a need exists for apparatus and methods for efficiently resetting a flying disc or flying propeller that permits the automatic resetting of the flying disc or flying propeller upon its receipt in the launcher.

Toys for launching the flying propellers and flying discs have typically required the user to manually position the disc on the launching mechanism to launch the disc. Many prior systems required the precise positioning and/or orienting of the flying propellers and flying discs to engage the launcher. The time and effort required to position the flying propellers and flying discs can detract from the enjoyment of the user. Therefore, a need exists for a launching mechanism that permits the quick and easy engagement of the flying propellers and flying discs with the launcher.

Some toys for launching flying propellers and flying discs are designed to both launch the flying propellers and flying discs and to catch them as they come back down. These devices typically include a catch mechanism. After landing, many prior launch systems still require the precise positioning and/or orienting of the flying propellers and flying discs to engage the launcher. This results in added time and effort to position the flying propellers and flying discs which can detract from the enjoyment of the user. Therefore, a need exists for an “auto loading” system that consistently operably positions a flying propellers and flying discs in a launcher.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Apparatus and methods in accordance with the present inventions may resolve one or more of the needs and shortcomings discussed above and will provide additional improvements and advantages as will be recognized by those skilled in the art upon review of the present disclosure.

In one aspect, the present inventions may provide an apparatus including a launcher and a rotating projectile. The launcher may include a launcher housing. A spindle may extend from a launch surface defined by the launcher housing. The spindle may be rotatably secured to the launcher housing. The spindle of the launcher may also define at least a first projecting arm and a second projecting arm. The launcher housing may further define a peripheral wall extending about at least a portion of the launch surface. The launcher may also include a guide secured to the launcher housing. The guide may be configured to direct the rotating projectile onto the launch surface of the launcher. The rotating projectile is configured to be launched from the launcher. The rotating projectile includes at least a hub and one or more lift generating surface extending from the hub. The lift generating surface has a peripheral edge. The hub defines a spindle receptacle on at least a lower surface of the hub. The spindle receptacle may be configured to receive the spindle of the launcher and to engage the spindle to permit rotation of the lift generating surface about a central axis to generate lift. The rotating projectile may be adapted to position the spindle receptacle over an upper surface of the spindle when a peripheral edge of the rotating projectile is in contact with the peripheral wall and the launch surface of the launcher housing. The spindle receptacle of the rotating projectile may also define at least one retention member. The at least one retention member may be secured between the first projecting arm and the second projecting arm to engage the spindle with the spindle receptacle to confer a rotational force from the spindle to the rotating projectile. Packaging may also be secured to the launcher housing. The packaging may include an inner surface defining a flight chamber adapted to contain the projectile after the projectile is launched from the launcher and while in motion independent of the launcher. The motion of the projectile may be visible from outside the packaging.

In another aspect, the present inventions may provide an apparatus including a launcher and a rotating projectile. The launcher may include a launcher housing. The launcher housing may define a launch surface and a peripheral wall. The peripheral wall may extend about at least a portion of the launch surface. A spindle receptacle may be rotatably secured to the launcher housing. The spindle receptacle may be centrally positioned on the launch surface. The launcher may also include a guide secured to the launcher housing. The guide may be configured to direct the rotating projectile onto the launch surface of the launcher. The rotating projectile may include a hub and one or more lift generating surfaces. The lift generating surfaces may extend from the hub. The lift generating surfaces may have a peripheral edge. The hub may include a spindle extending from a lower surface of the hub. The spindle may be configured to receive the spindle receptacle of the launcher. The spindle may engage the spindle receptacle to permit rotation of the lift generating surface about a central axis to generate lift. The spindle of the rotating projectile may define at least a first projecting arm and a second projecting arm. The spindle receptacle of the launcher may define at least one retention member. The at least one retention member may be secured between the first projecting arm and the second projecting arm to engage the spindle with the spindle receptacle to confer a rotational force from the spindle receptacle to the rotating projectile. The rotating projectile adapted to position a lower surface of the spindle over the spindle receptacle when a peripheral edge of the rotating projectile is in contact with the peripheral wall and the launch surface of the launcher housing. Packaging may also be secured to the launcher housing. The packaging may include an inner surface defining a flight chamber adapted to contain the projectile after the projectile is launched from the launcher and while in motion independent of the launcher. The motion of the projectile may be visible from outside the packaging.

In another aspect, the present inventions may provide a method for launching and resetting a rotating projectile. The method may include: providing a launcher configured to launch a projectile, the launcher comprising a launch surface, a spindle and a peripheral wall, the peripheral wall extending around at least a portion of the launch surface and the spindle, the projectile comprising a hub and a lift generating surface, the hub defining a spindle receptacle; releasably securing the projectile on a spindle over a launching surface of the launcher; rotating the projectile; launching the projectile into free flight from of the launcher; receiving the projectile on the launch surface of the launcher; contacting the peripheral wall and the launch surface with a peripheral edge of the projectile to juxtapose the hub with an upper surface of the spindle; receiving the spindle receptacle of the hub over the spindle; and engaging the spindle with a retention member of the spindle receptacle to reset the projectile in the launcher for a subsequent launch.

In another aspect, the present inventions may provide a method for launching and resetting a rotating projectile. The method may include: providing a launcher configured to launch a projectile, the launcher comprising a launch surface, a spindle receptacle and a peripheral wall, the peripheral wall extending around at least a portion of the launch surface and the spindle, the projectile comprising a hub and a lift generating surface, the hub having a spindle extending from a lower surface; releasably securing the spindle of the projectile on the spindle receptacle over a launching surface of the launcher; rotating the projectile; launching the projectile into free flight from of the launcher; receiving the projectile on the launch surface of the launcher; contacting the peripheral wall and the launch surface with a peripheral edge of the projectile to juxtapose the hub with an upper surface of the spindle; receiving the spindle of the rotating projectile over the spindle receptacle of the launcher; and engaging the spindle with a retention member of the spindle receptacle to reset the projectile in the launcher for a subsequent launch.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with aspects of the present inventions;

FIG. 1B illustrates a side view in cross-section of the exemplary embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with aspects of the present inventions of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with aspects of the present inventions;

FIG. 2B illustrates a frontal view in cross-section of the exemplary embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with aspects of the present inventions FIG. 2A;

FIG. 3A illustrates a detailed cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a projectile and a launcher in accordance with aspects of the present inventions;

FIG. 3B illustrates a detailed cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a projectile and a launcher in accordance with aspects of the present inventions;

FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of a projectile in accordance with aspects of the present inventions;

FIG. 4A illustrates a side view in cross-section of an embodiment of a hub of a projectile through section line A-A of FIG. 4 in accordance with aspects of the present inventions;

FIG. 4B illustrates a side view in cross-section of another embodiment of a hub of a projectile through section line B-B of FIG. 4 in accordance with aspects of the present inventions;

FIG. 4C illustrates a side view in cross-section of another embodiment of a hub of a projectile through section line C-C of FIG. 4 in accordance with aspects of the present inventions;

FIG. 5A illustrates a partial perspective view of an embodiment of a spindle of a launcher in accordance with aspects of the present inventions;

FIG. 5B illustrates a side view in cross-section of the embodiment of a spindle of a launcher in accordance with aspects of the present inventions of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6A illustrates a partial perspective view of another embodiment of a spindle of a launcher in accordance with aspects of the present inventions;

FIG. 6B illustrates a side view in cross-section of the embodiment of a spindle of a launcher in accordance with aspects of the present inventions of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7 illustrates a partial bottom view of an embodiment of a hub of a projectile in accordance with aspects of the present inventions;

FIG. 7A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a spindle of a launcher in accordance with aspects of the present inventions configured to cooperate with the embodiment of the hub of FIG. 7;

FIG. 7B illustrates a side view of the embodiment of a spindle of a launcher in accordance with aspects of the present inventions of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8 illustrates a partial bottom view of another embodiment of a hub of a projectile in accordance with aspects of the present inventions;

FIG. 8A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a spindle of a launcher in accordance with aspects of the present inventions configured to cooperate with the embodiment of the hub of FIG. 8;

FIG. 8B illustrates a side view of the embodiment of a spindle of a launcher in accordance with aspects of the present inventions of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 9 illustrates a partial bottom view of another embodiment of a hub of a projectile in accordance with aspects of the present inventions;

FIG. 9A illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a spindle of a launcher in accordance with aspects of the present inventions configured to cooperate with the embodiment of the hub of FIG. 9;

FIG. 10 illustrates a partial perspective view of another embodiment of a hub of a launcher in accordance with aspects of the present inventions;

FIG. 10A illustrates a bottom view of an embodiment of a spindle of a rotating projectile in accordance with aspects of the present inventions configured to cooperate with the embodiment of the hub of FIG. 10; and

FIG. 10B illustrates a side view of the embodiment of a spindle of a rotating projectile in accordance with aspects of the present inventions of FIG. 10A.

All Figures are illustrated for ease of explanation of the basic teachings of the present invention only; the extensions of the Figures with respect to number, position, relationship and dimensions of the parts to form the embodiment will be explained or will be within the skill of the art after the following description has been read and understood. The exact dimensions and dimensional proportions to conform to specific force, weight, strength, flow and similar requirements will likewise be within the skill of the art after the following description has been read and understood.

Where used in various Figures of the drawings, the same numerals designate the same or similar parts. Furthermore, when the terms “top,” “bottom,” “right,” “left,” “forward,” “rear,” “first,” “second,” “inside,” “outside,” and similar terms are used, the terms should be understood in reference to the drawings and utilized only to facilitate describing the illustrated embodiments. Typically, these terms are ascribed and should be understood to reference the structures shown in the drawings as they will typically be utilized by a purchaser or other user.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTIONS

The present inventions provide apparatus 10 and associated methods for launching and receiving rotating projectiles 14. The figures generally illustrate embodiments of apparatus 10 including at least a launcher 12 and rotating projectile 14 including aspects of the present inventions. In certain aspects, the present inventions provide configurations for a launcher 12 and a rotating projectile 14 that cooperate to permit the launch of the rotating projectile 14 by the launcher 12. In other aspects, the present inventions may provide configurations for launcher 12 and rotating projectile 14 that tend to juxtapose the cooperating structures of the launcher 12 and rotating projectile. In other aspects, the rotating projectile 14 and the launcher 12 may engage one another solely by the force of gravity. The particular exemplary embodiments of the apparatus 10 illustrated in the figures have been chosen for ease of explanation and understanding of various aspects of the present inventions. These illustrated embodiments are not meant to limit the scope of coverage but instead to assist in understanding the context of the language used in this specification and the appended claims. Accordingly, variations of apparatus 10 which are different from the illustrated embodiments may be encompassed by the appended claims.

Apparatus 10 are generally configured to launch a rotating projectile 14 from a launch surface 42 of the launcher 12. At least a portion of the rotating projectile 14 is configured to generate lift when rotated about a central axis 100. After an initial launch, the rotating projectile 14 may be placed, landed or otherwise positioned on the launch surface 42 of the launcher 12. The launcher 12 is configured to receive the rotating projectile 14 on the launch surface 42 and cooperate with the rotating projectile 14 to juxtapose and engage a spindle 22 and a spindle receptacle 24 for subsequent launching. In certain aspects, the launcher 12 may be configured to launch a rotating projectile 14 within a flight chamber 40 defined at least in part by packaging 20 encasing at least a portion of the launcher 12.

As shown throughout the Figures, the launcher 12 is generally configured to impart a rotational motion to the rotating projectile 14 about a central axis 100. The launcher 12 is further configured to receive a launched rotating projectile 14 on a launch surface 42 and to reset the rotating projectile 14 on a spindle 22 for subsequent launching. The launcher 12 may have a variety of configurations but is typically be configured as handheld or free standing. When the launcher 12 is configured to be handheld, the launcher housing 32 may define a handle 72. The launcher 12 includes a launcher housing 32 to secured various components and define various structures of the launcher 12. The launcher housing 32 may be a single component or may include a multiple subcomponents secured to one another.

The launcher housing 32 may secure or mount one or more of shafts, gears, wheels, motors, valves, tubes, pumps, actuators, batteries, reservoirs, electronics, actuators among other components for charging, powering, driving, launching and/or releasing the rotating projectile 14. Among the other components, the launcher housing 32 typically secures a motor 36 or other components configured to confer a rotational motion to a rotating projectile 14. The launcher housing 32 also secures the motor 36 or other mechanism connected to the spindle 22 or spindle receptacle 24 to impart rotational movement relative to the launcher housing 32 on the rotating projectile 14. Depending upon the particular configuration, a spindle 22 or a spindle receptacle 24 may be operably connected to the motor 36 to confer rotation upon a rotating projectile 14. In another configuration, the rotational movement may be otherwise generated such as, for example, with a pull string attached to and wound around an internal spool rotatably secured within the launcher housing 32.

The launch surface 42 is generally sized to receive the width or diameter of the rotating projectile 14. The launch surface 42 may be a continuous flat surface, may be formed as a discontinuous flat surface or may be a plurality of components which cooperate to form a planar surface. The launcher housing 32 also defines a peripheral wall 52. The peripheral wall 52 extends around at least a portion of the launch surface 42. The peripheral wall may be perpendicular to the launch surface 42 or may form an obtuse angle 102 with the launch surface 42. Typically, the angle 102 is between 90 degrees and 120 degrees. The peripheral wall 52 is configured to position the rotating projectile 14 on the launch surface 42 of the launcher housing 32. Typically, the spindle 22 or a spindle receptacle 24 is positioned to rotate about an axis 100 and may be positioned at the center of the launch surface 42. In certain aspects, the center of the launch surface 42 may be defined as the geometric center of the launch surface 42. In other aspects, the center may be defined as a position equidistant from at least three points about the peripheral wall 52. The relative proportions and positioning of the rotating projectile 14, spindle 22, launch surface 42, and peripheral wall 52 are configured to juxtapose the spindle receptacle 24 and the spindle 22 when the rotating projectile 14 is received on the launch surface 42. The spindle 22 is configured to be rotatably and/or slidably received within the spindle receptacle 24 and to engage one or more of the retention members 82 within the receptacle 24. A guide 62 may also be secure to or integral with the launcher housing 32. The launch surface 42 may cooperate with a guide 62 to assist in the recapture of a rotating projectile 14 and/or to direct a rotating projectile 14 to the launch surface 42. The guide 62 may be formed as a flange, a lip, webbing, netting, an enlarged opening, otherwise as will be recognized by those skilled in the art upon review of the present disclosure or may be formed from a combination of such elements.

When the spindle 22 is configured to extend from the launcher 12, the spindle 22 typically extends upward from the launch surface 42 to receive the spindle receptacle 24 of the rotating projectile 14. A longitudinal axis of the spindle 22, may be substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the launch surface 42. Typically, the spindle 22 will rotate about its longitudinal axis which may correspond with the axis of rotation 100 of the rotating projectile 14 when the spindle 22 is engaged with a spindle receptacle 24 of the rotating projectile 14.

Similarly when the spindle receptacle 24 is integrated into the launcher 12, at least a portion of the spindle receptacle 24 extends below the launch surface 42 to receive the spindle 22. In certain aspects, an upper lip of the spindle receptacle may be substantially coplanar with the launch surface 42. In other aspects, the upper lip of the spindle receptacle may be below the launch surface 42. The longitudinal axis of the spindle receptacle 24 may be substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the launch surface 42. Typically, the spindle receptacle 24 will rotate about its longitudinal axis which may correspond with the axis of rotation 100 of the rotating projectile 14.

The peripheral wall 52 is generally configured to juxtapose the spindle 22 and the spindle receptacle 24 when a rotating projectile 14 is received or positioned on the launch surface 42. The peripheral wall 52 positions the spindle 22 so that it tends to engage with the spindle receptacle 24 under the force of gravity. When the spindle receptacle 24 is a component of the rotating projectile 14, the peripheral wall 52 positions the spindle receptacle 24 over the spindle 22 which extends upward from the launch surface 42 of the launcher 12. Once positioned over the spindle 22, the spindle receptacle 24 typically configured to receive the spindle 22 under the force of gravity. When the spindle 22 is a component of the rotating projectile 14, the peripheral wall 52 positions the spindle 22 over the spindle receptacle 24 which may at least in part extend below the launch surface 42 of the launcher 12. Once positioned over the spindle receptacle 24, the spindle 22 is typically configured to be received within the spindle receptacle 24 under the force of gravity.

With the spindle 22 received within the spindle receptacle 24, the rotating projectile 14 may be releasably interlocked with the launcher 12. The launcher 12 is generally configured to rotate the rotating projectile 14 and to release the rotating projectile 14 into flight once the rotating projectile 14 reaches a sufficient and/or desired rate of rotation. An inner surface 30 of a packaging 20 secured over at least a portion of the launcher 12 may define a flight chamber 40 extending over the launch surface 42 into which the rotating rotating projectile 14 is launched.

As shown throughout the Figures, rotating projectiles 14 are generally configured to generate sufficient lift when rotated to fly for a limited period of time. Typically, the rotating projectiles 14 will be unpowered. The rotating projectiles 14 typically include at least one lift generating surface 44. The lift generating surface 44 is configured to produce lift when it is rotated about an axis of rotation 100. The rotating projectile 14 typically includes a hub 26 which may extend through the axis of rotation 100. The lift generating surface 44 may generate lift for the rotating projectile 14 and, in certain aspects, the rotating projectile 14 may solely be a disk, blade or propeller. The rotating projectile 14 is typically configured launched or released from the launcher 12 into independent flight after the launcher 12 has conferred a sufficient rate of rotation for the lift generating surface 44. In certain aspects, rotating projectiles 14 may be configured to one or more of fly, hover and/or glide after launch or release. In other aspects, the rotating projectile 14 may be in a configuration that tends toward free fall as the rotation slows after the initial climb. The rotating projectile 14 may be configured to free fall at a limited rate by including features that may tend to increase drag as the projectile's 14 rate of rotation slows or the rotating projectile 14 stops rotating.

The lift generating surfaces 44 of the rotating projectile 14 may be in the form of one or more blades, rotors or propeller or related structure radiating out from the hub 26 but may be otherwise configured as will be recognized by those skilled in the art upon review of the present disclosure. A ring 54 may be secured to the distal ends of the lift generating surfaces 44. The ring 54 may extend peripherally about the hub 26 or may be secured to or positioned about the distal ends of the list generating surfaces 44. The ring 54 may be configured to be atraumatic when the projectile is rotating and/or may be configured to assist in the resetting of the rotating projectile 14 on the launcher 12. The hub 26 is typically positioned at the axis of rotation 100 of the projectile 24.

In one aspect, the rotating projectiles 14 include at least a spindle receptacle 24 and one or more lift generating surface 44. The spindle receptacle 24 may be formed in a hub 26 of the rotating projectile 14. The spindle receptacle 24 is generally configured to cooperate with the spindle 22 of the launcher 12 to permit the spindle 22 to confer rotational motion upon the rotating projectile 14 or aspects thereof. The spindle receptacle 24 is generally configured to be released from the spindle 22 due to one or more of lift generated by the rotating projectile 14, deceleration of the spindle 22, or otherwise as will be recognized by those skilled in the art upon review of the present disclosure. The hub 26 may define the spindle receptacle 24. The spindle receptacle 24 may be configured as a passage through or cavity within the hub 26. The spindle receptacle 24 is sized to receive at least a portion of the spindle 22. The spindle receptacle 24 may include at least one retention member 56. The retention member 56 is configured to engage the spindle 22 as the rotating projectile 14 is accelerated and/or rotated and to release the spindle 22 so that the rotating projectile 22 may enter into free flight. The retention members 56 may be configured as one or more bars, protuberances, threads and/or other configurations as will be recognized by those skilled in the art upon review of the present disclosure. An inner surface 74 of the hub 26 defining the spindle receptacle 24 may be angled or curved to direct the spindle 22 toward and/or onto the one or more retention members 56.

In another aspect, the rotating projectiles 14 include at least a spindle 22 and one or more lift generating surface 44. The spindle 22 may extend downward from the hub 26. The spindle 22 is generally configured to cooperate with the spindle receptacle 24 of the launcher 12 to permit the spindle receptacle 24 to confer rotational motion upon the rotating projectile 14 or aspects thereof. The spindle 22 is generally configured to be released from the spindle receptacle 24 due to one or more of lift generated by the rotating projectile 14, deceleration of the spindle receptacle 24, or otherwise as will be recognized by those skilled in the art upon review of the present disclosure. The spindle 22 is typically positioned at the axis of rotation 100 of the rotating projectile 14 and may be secured to a hub 26. The spindle 22 is typically a projection from lower surface of the rotating projectile 14. The spindle 22 is configured to cooperate with the spindle receptacle 24 to permit the engaging and release of the rotating projectile 14. Typically, one or more aspects of the spindle 22 are configured to be received within the spindle receptacle 24. The spindle 22 may include one or more arms, grooves, projections, cavities or other structures to engage the at least one retention member 56 of the spindle receptacle 24. The spindle 22 is configured to engage the retention member 56 as the rotating projectile 14 is accelerated and/or rotated and to release the rotating projectile 14 into free flight.

The launcher 12 cooperates with the rotating projectile 14 to impart rotational motion on the rotating projectile 14 to launch the rotating projectile 14 into free flight. In certain aspects, the rotating projectile 14 is released into free flight due to one or more of a braking action applied to the spindle 22 or spindle receptacle 24 and/or the lift generated by the rotating rotating projectile 14. The braking action may be due to the friction within the motor 36, a separate brake 46 in communication with spindle 22 or spindle receptacle 24, or may be inherent in the configuration of the motor 36.

The packaging 20 is generally configured to be removably secured over at least a portion of the launcher 12. The launcher 12 is typically removably secured within the packaging 20. In certain aspects, the removal of the launcher 12 from the packaging 20 may require the disassembly, disfigurement or destruction of the packaging 20 to un-package the launcher 12. In other aspects, the removal of the launcher 12 from the packaging 20 may be done without destroying the functionality of the packaging 20 and permit the reuse of the packaging 20. The packaging 20 is generally configured to permit a potential purchaser to operate at least some of the controls of the launcher 12 to permit the launch of a rotating projectile 14 to be repeatably demonstrated. At least a portion of the packaging 20 is translucent or otherwise configured to permit the observation of the rotating projectile 14 within the flight chamber 40. In one aspect, at least a portion of flight chamber 40 is transparent to permit the observation of the rotating projectile 14 within the flight chamber 40. The packaging 20 may at least in part be formed from a clear polymeric material. However, the packaging 20 may also be formed from various cellulose based materials, metals, or other materials or combinations of materials that will be recognized by those skilled in the art upon review of the present disclosure. The materials and overall configuration of the packaging 20 are generally dictated by the packaging, shipping and display requirements for the particular launcher 12 that is being packaged. Frequently, the packaging 20 will be molded from one or more sheets of translucent plastic and may contain various internal or external cardboard inserts. These inserts may be used for ornamental, structural and/or other purposes such as providing a surface for printing information.

The inner surface 30 of the packaging 20 at least in part defines a flight chamber 40. The flight chamber 40 may be configured to generally retain the rotating projectile 14 after the launch of the rotating projectile 14 from the launcher 12. The flight chamber 40 may generally extend upward and away from the launcher 12 to define a space for the flight of the rotating projectile 14 independent of the launcher 12. The flight chamber 40 may be defined as the area between flight chamber 40 and a surface of at least a portion of the launcher 12 and have dimensions sufficient to receive a launched rotating projectile 14. In certain aspects, the inner surface 30 of the packaging 20 may be configured to at least in part guide the rotating projectile 14 back to the launch surface 42 of the launcher 12.

As particularly illustrated for exemplary purposes in FIGS. 1A to 2B embodiments of apparatus 10 in accordance with aspects of the present inventions can include a launcher 12 and a rotating projectile 14. FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate a launcher housing 32 defining a handle 72 configured to be gripped by a user. FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate a launch housing 32 that is configured to be free standing. As illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the apparatus 10 may also include a packaging 20. An actuator 34 may be provided on the launcher housing 32. The actuator 34 may operably connected to the spindle 22 or spindle receptacle 24 to initiate rotation of the spindle 22 or spindle receptacle 24. In certain illustrated aspects, the actuator 34 may be mechanically or electrically connected to the motor 36. When packaging 20 is secured to the launcher 12, the actuator 34 is typically positioned outside of the packaging 20 or is otherwise accessible through the packaging 20 to permit access by a potential purchaser. As illustrated in FIG. 1B, the actuator 34 is mechanically connected to an electrical switch which controls a motor 36. The motor 36 may powered by a spring, by a user, by a battery 38 or otherwise. The motor 36 typically rotates a drive shaft which is secured to the spindle 22 or the spindle receptacle 24. The spindle 22 or the spindle receptacle 24 is generally configured to confer rotational motion to the rotating projectile 14. As particularly illustrated, the drive shaft includes a spindle 22 that is configured to confer a rotational force upon the rotating projectile 14 and to release the spinning rotating projectile 14 into free flight. After flight within the flight chamber 40, the flying disc may be reset within the launch surface 42 utilizing at least in part gravitational forces.

Both of the illustrated embodiments include a spindle 22 rotatably secured within the launch housing 32. The spindles 22 are shown secured at substantially the geometric center of the launch surface 42. A motor 36 including a drive shaft secured to the spindle may be positioned coaxially with the spindles 22 and along an axis 100 extending through the launcher 12. In certain aspects, a brake 46 may be in communication with the drive shaft, motor 36 and/or spindle 22 to facilitate the deceleration of the spindle 22. The perimeter of the launch surface 42 is bounded by a peripheral wall 52 that extends upward from the launch surface 42. As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the peripheral wall 52 is angled away from a central axis 100 as it extends upward away from the launch surface 42. As illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the peripheral wall 52 is shown as substantially parallel or parallel to the central axis 100 as it extends upward away from the launch surface 42. The peripheral wall 52 may have a uniform height or the height may vary as the peripheral wall extends around the spindle 22. A guide 62 may extend upward from an upper portion of the peripheral wall 52. As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the guide 62 may be in the form of a net with an upper opening having a greater size than the size of the peripheral wall 52. As illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, a plurality of guides 62 may be provided circumferentially about the peripheral wall 52 and generally configured to guide a rotating projectile 14 toward the launch surface 42.

As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the packaging 20 is secured over at least a launch surface 42 and peripheral wall 52 of the launcher 12. The inner surface 30 of the packaging 20 in combination with the launch surface 42 may defines the flight chamber 40. Aspects of the inner surface 30 may be shaped to conform to at least part of the upper portion of the launcher 12 to secure the packaging 20 to the launcher 12. An upper surface of the flight chamber 40 is shown as substantially flat. In one aspect, the substantially flat surface may permit a rotating rotating projectile 14 to hover above the launcher 12 and may for a period of time to be observed by a potential purchaser. As illustrated, the guide 62 may be configured to direct the rotating projectile 14 toward the launch surface 42 of the launcher 12.

As illustrated in the Figures the rotating projectile 14 is shown in the form of a propeller or flying disc configured to fly when rotated at a sufficient speed. The illustrated rotating projectiles 14 of FIGS. 1A, 2A, 3A, 4 to 4C, 7, 8 and 9 include a spindle receptacle 24 defined by an inner surface 74 of a hub 26. The illustrated rotating projectiles 14 of FIGS. 3B, 10A and 10B include a spindle 22 extending downward from a hub 26. In both generally illustrated configurations, three lift generating surfaces 44 in the form of blades radiate outward from the hub 26. The lift generating surfaces 44 are generally configured to generate lift when the rotating projectile 14 is rotated. A first end 43 of the lift generating surfaces 44 is secured to the hub 26. The second end 45 as illustrated generally radiates outward from the hub 26. As particularly illustrated in the figures, a ring 54 may be secured to the second end of the lift generating surfaces 44.

One or more retention members 56 are secured within the spindle receptacle 24 to cooperate with the spindle 22. In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 1A, 2A, 3A, 4 to 4C, 7, 8 and 9, the retention members 56 are configured to communicate motion from the spindle 22 to the rotating projectile 14. As illustrated, the spindle 22 is generally configured to receive the retention member 56. The spindle 22 is connected to the drive shaft to transfer rotational motion from the motor 36. More particularly, the motor 36 rotates the drive shaft which rotates the spindle 22 which causes rotation of the rotating projectile 14 by engaging the spindle 22 with the retention member 56 of the rotating projectile 14.

In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 3B, 10, 10A and 10B, the spindle 22 is configured to communicate motion from the retention members 56 of the spindle receptacle 24 to the rotating projectile 14. As illustrated, the spindle 22 is secured to the hub 26 of the rotating projectile and is generally configured to engage a retention member 56 of the spindle receptacle 24. The spindle receptacle 24 is connected to the drive shaft to transfer rotational motion from the motor 36. More particularly, the motor 36 rotates the drive shaft which rotates the spindle receptacle 24 which causes rotation of the rotating projectile 14 by engaging the retention member 56 with the spindle 22 of the rotating projectile 14.

For exemplary purposes, the spindle 22 is illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 3B, 5A to 6B, 10A and 10B with a first projecting arm 68 and a second projecting arm 70 that insert into cavity or passage of the spindle receptacle 24 to receive the retention member 56. In certain aspects, the rotating projectile 14 may be held in position on the spindle 22 or the spindle receptacle 24 at least in part by gravitational forces. In other aspects, rotating projectile 14 may be held in position on the spindle 22 or the spindle receptacle 24 with various mechanical elements and/or forces such as those conferred by the rotation of the rotating projectile 14 by the spindle 22 or the spindle receptacle 24.

As particularly illustrated in FIG. 3A, the guide 62 is configured to direct a descending rotating projectile 14 toward the launch surface 42 and spindle 22. The rotating projectile 14 is configured to be received on or over the launch surface 42 surrounded at least in part by the peripheral wall 52. The width or diameter (L1+L2+L1) of the rotating projectile 14 is less than the width or diameter (L4) defined by the peripheral wall 52 so that the rotating projectile 14 may be rotated when the spindle 22 is received within the cavity or passage of the spindle receptacle 24. The spindle 22, the launch surface 42, the peripheral wall 52, and the rotating projectile 14 are relatively configured such that when a peripheral aspect of rotating projectile 14 is positioned against at least a portion of the launch surface 42 and the peripheral wall 52 the relative sizing and spacing tends to juxtapose the spindle receptacle 24 over at least an upper surface 92 of the spindle 22 such that the spindle 22 will tend to be received within the spindle receptacle 24 under the force of gravity. Accordingly, the diameter or width (L2) of at least a portion of the spindle receptacle 24 is wider than the outside diameter (L5) of at least the portion of the spindle 22 to permit at least that portion of the spindle 22 to be received within the spindle receptacle 24. In one aspect, when a peripheral edge of a rotating projectile 14, such as a second end 45 of a lift generating surfaces 44 or a ring 54, contacts the launch surface 42 and peripheral wall 52, the far wall 94 of the spindle receptacle 24 which is positioned a length (L1+L2) from the peripheral edge extends beyond an upper surface 92 of the spindle 22. In another aspect, when a peripheral edge of a rotating projectile 14 such as a second end 45 of a lift generating surfaces 44 or a ring 54 contacts the launch surface 42 and peripheral wall 52, the far wall 94 of the spindle receptacle 24 which is positioned a length (L1+L2) from the peripheral edge extends over an upper portion 92 of the spindle 22. In yet another aspect, when a peripheral edge of a rotating projectile 14 such as a second end 45 of a lift generating surfaces 44 or a ring 54 contacts the launch surface 42 and peripheral wall 52, the far wall 94 of the spindle receptacle 24 which is positioned a length (L1+L2) from the peripheral edge extends at least to an aspect of the upper portion 92 of the spindle 22. As used herein, the far wall 94 is generally the portion of the inner hub wall 74 which is furthest from the point where the peripheral edge of the rotating projectile 14 contacts the peripheral wall 52. Utilizing gravitational forces, such sizing can permit the automatic resetting of the rotating projectile 14 on the spindle 22.

As particularly illustrated in FIG. 3B, the guide 62 is configured to direct a descending rotating projectile 14 toward the launch surface 42 and spindle receptacle 24. The rotating projectile 14 is configured to be received on or over the launch surface 42 surrounded at least in part by the peripheral wall 52. The width or diameter (L1+L5+L1) of the rotating projectile 14 is less than the width or diameter (L4) defined by the peripheral wall 52 so that the rotating projectile 14 may be rotated when the spindle 22 is received within the cavity or passage of the spindle receptacle 24. The spindle receptacle 24, the launch surface 42, the peripheral wall 52, and the rotating projectile 14 are relatively configured such that when a peripheral aspect of rotating projectile 14 is positioned against at least a portion of the launch surface 42 and the peripheral wall 52 the relative sizing and spacing tends to juxtapose at least a lower surface 102 of the spindle 22 over the spindle receptacle 24 such that the spindle 22 will tend to be received within the spindle receptacle 24 under the force of gravity. Accordingly, the diameter or width (L2) of at least a portion of the spindle receptacle 24 is wider than the outside diameter (L5) of at least the portion of the spindle 22 to permit at least that portion of the spindle 22 to be received within the spindle receptacle 24. In one aspect, when a peripheral edge of a rotating projectile 14, such as a second end 45 of a lift generating surfaces 44 or a ring 54, contacts the launch surface 42 and peripheral wall 52, the far wall 94 (shown in phantom) of the spindle receptacle 24 which is positioned a length (L2+L3) from the peripheral wall 52 extends beyond an lower surface 102 of the spindle 22. In another aspect, when a peripheral edge of a rotating projectile 14 such as a second end 45 of a lift generating surfaces 44 or a ring 54 contacts the launch surface 42 and peripheral wall 52, the far wall 94 (shown in phantom) of the spindle receptacle 24 which is positioned a length (L2+L3) from the peripheral wall 52 extends under a lower portion 102 of the spindle 22. In yet another aspect, when a peripheral edge of a rotating projectile 14 such as a second end 45 of a lift generating surfaces 44 or a ring 54 contacts the launch surface 42 and peripheral wall 52, the far wall 94 (shown in phantom) of the spindle receptacle 24 which is positioned a length (L2+L3) from the peripheral wall 52 extends at least up to an aspect of the lower portion 102 of the spindle 22. As used herein, the far wall 94 generally the portion of the wall 74 defining the cavity or passage of the spindle receptacle 24 which is furthest from the point where the peripheral edge of the rotating projectile 14 contacts the peripheral wall 52. Utilizing gravitational forces, such sizing can permit the automatic resetting of the rotating projectile 14 on the spindle 22.

Various configurations for hubs 24 are illustrated in FIGS. 4A to 4C. The illustrated hubs 24 generally include a passage 64 defined by an inner hub wall 74 and a retention member 56 extending across at least a portion of the passage 64. In one aspect, the inner hub walls 74 may be substantially parallel to the axis 100. In other aspects, the inner hub walls 74 may be angled inward or curved as they extend toward the center of the thickness of the rotating projectile 14 as illustrated in FIGS. 4B and 4C. The inwardly angled or curved inner hub walls 74 can increase the width L2 at least a portion of the passage or cavity of the spindle receptacle 24. The inwardly angled or curved inner hub walls 74 may increase the probability of the spindle receptacle 24 being positioned over an upper portion 92 of the spindle 22 to reset the rotating projectile 14 on the spindle 22 after it is received on the launch surface 42. In addition, FIG. 4B illustrates an embodiment having two retention members 56 extending across only a portion of the passage or cavity of the spindle receptacle 24.

Various configurations for spindles 22 are illustrated in FIGS. 5A to 6B. The illustrated spindles 22 generally include a first projecting arm 68 and a second projecting arm 70. The first projecting arm 68 and the second projecting arm 70 are generally configured to secure a retention member in at least a portion of the space 65 defined between the first projecting arm 68 and the second projecting arm 70 as the spindle 22 rotates the rotating projectile 14 about the axis 100. In one aspect, a first notch 67 and a second notch 69 are defined by the first projecting arm 68 and the second projecting arm 70 to retain the retention member 56 of the rotating projectile 14 as the rotating projectile 14 is accelerated and/or due to aerodynamic resistance to rotation of the rotating projectile 14. A first launching surface 73 and a second launching surface 75 may be provided on the first projecting arm 68 and the second projecting arm 70, respectively. The retention member 56 of the rotating projectile 14 may contact one or more of the first launching surface 73 and the second launching surface 75 as the spindle 22 decelerates to facilitate launch such as when the brake 46 is engaged for example. The first launching surface 73 and the second launching surface 75 may be configured to direct a projectile upward along axis 100 as the projectile's 14 rotational velocity exceeds that of the spindle's 22.

FIGS. 7 to 7B illustrate an additional configuration for spindle 22 and spindle receptacle 24. As illustrated, a first projecting arm 68, a second projecting arm 70 and a third projecting arm 71 are provided on the spindle 22. The first projecting arm 68, the second projecting arm 70 and the third projecting arm 71 extend laterally from the spindle 22. As illustrated, the upper aspect 92 of the spindle 22 is distinct from the first projecting arm 68, the second projecting arm 70 and the third projecting arm 71. The first projecting arm 68, the second projecting arm 70 and the third projecting arm 71 are configured to be received within a cavity 64 defined by the inner hub wall 74. The retention members 56 are integrally formed peripherally about the inner hub wall 74 to cooperate with the first projecting arm 68, the second projecting arm 70 and the third projecting arm 71 to allow the spindle 22 to confer a rotational motion upon the rotating projectile 14 and to release the rotating projectile 14 into free flight.

FIGS. 8 to 8B illustrate an additional configuration for spindle 22 and spindle receptacle 24. As illustrated, a first projecting arm 68, a second projecting arm 70 and a third projecting arm 71 are provided on the spindle 22. The first projecting arm 68, the second projecting arm 70 and the third projecting arm 71 extend upward from the spindle 22 and define upper aspects 92 of the spindle 22. The first projecting arm 68, the second projecting arm 70 and the third projecting arm 71 are configured to be received within the spindle receptacle 24 defined by the inner hub wall 74. The retention members 56 are integrally formed peripherally about the inner hub wall 74 to cooperate with the first projecting arm 68, the second projecting arm 70 and the third projecting arm 71 to allow the spindle 22 to confer a rotational motion upon the rotating projectile 14 and to release the rotating projectile 14 into free flight.

FIGS. 9 to 9A illustrate an additional configuration for spindle 22 and spindle receptacle 24. As illustrated, the spindle 22 defines a helical screw 95 of decreasing radius as it extends toward the upper portion 92. The helical screw 95 of the illustrated spindle 22 configured to be received by one or more retention members 56 in the form of threads defined by the inner hub wall 74 which forms the spindle receptacle 24. The retention members 56 are integrally formed peripherally about the inner hub wall 74 to cooperate with the helical screw 95 of the spindle 22 to allow the spindle 22 to confer a rotational motion upon the rotating projectile 14 and to release the rotating projectile 14 into free flight.

FIGS. 10 to 10B illustrate an exemplary configuration for spindle 22 secured to a hub 26 of a rotating projectile 14 and a spindle receptacle 24 of a launcher 12 configured to receive it. As illustrated, a first projecting arm 68 and a second projecting arm 70 are provided on the spindle 22. The first projecting arm 68 and the second projecting arm 70 extend downward from the hub 26 and define lower aspects 102 of the spindle 22. The first projecting arm 68 and the second projecting arm 70 are configured to be received within a spindle receptacle 24. The retention members 56 are integrally formed peripherally about the inner hub wall 74 to cooperate with the first projecting arm 68 and the second projecting arm 70 to allow the spindle receptacle 24 to confer a rotational motion upon the rotating projectile 14 and to release the rotating projectile 14 into free flight.

The foregoing discussion discloses and describes merely exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Upon review of the specification, one skilled in the art will readily recognize from such discussion, and from the accompanying drawings and claims, that various changes, modifications and variations can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus, comprising:

a launcher including a launcher housing, the launcher housing defining a launch surface, a peripheral wall extending about at least a portion of the launch surface, a spindle rotatably secured to the launcher housing and extending from the launch surface; and

a rotating projectile including a hub and at least one lift generating surface extending from the hub, the lift generating surface having a peripheral edge, the hub defining a spindle receptacle on at least a lower surface of the hub, the spindle receptacle configured to receive the spindle of the launcher and to engage the spindle to permit rotation of the lift generating surface about a central axis to generate lift, the rotating projectile adapted to position the spindle receptacle over an upper surface of the spindle when a peripheral edge of the rotating projectile is in contact with the peripheral wall and the launch surface of the launcher housing.

2. An apparatus, as in claim 1, further comprising the spindle of the launcher defining at least a first projecting arm and a second projecting arm and the spindle receptacle of the rotating projectile defining at least one retention member, the at least one retention member secured between the first projecting arm and the second projecting arm to engage the spindle with the spindle receptacle to confer a rotational force from the spindle to the rotating projectile.

3. An apparatus, as in claim 1, further comprising the launcher including a guide secured to the launcher housing, the guide configured to direct the rotating projectile onto the launch surface of the launcher.

4. An apparatus, as in claim 1, further comprising a packaging including an inner surface defining a flight chamber adapted to contain the projectile after the projectile is launched from the launcher and while in motion independent of the launcher, the motion of the projectile being visible from outside the packaging.

5. An apparatus, comprising:

a launcher including a launcher housing, the launcher housing defining a launch surface, a peripheral wall extending about at least a portion of the launch surface, a spindle receptacle rotatably secured to the launcher housing and centrally positioned on the launch surface; and

a rotating projectile including a hub and at least one lift generating surface extending from the hub, the lift generating surface having a peripheral edge, the hub including a spindle extending from a lower surface of the hub, the spindle configured to receive the spindle receptacle of the launcher and to engage the spindle receptacle to permit rotation of the lift generating surface about a central axis to generate lift, the rotating projectile adapted to position a lower surface of the spindle over the spindle receptacle when a peripheral edge of the rotating projectile is in contact with the peripheral wall and the launch surface of the launcher housing.

6. An apparatus, as in claim 5, further comprising the spindle of the rotating projectile defining at least a first projecting arm and a second projecting arm and the spindle receptacle of the launcher defining at least one retention member, the at least one retention member secured between the first projecting arm and the second projecting arm to engage the spindle with the spindle receptacle to confer a rotational force from the spindle receptacle to the rotating projectile.

7. An apparatus, as in claim 5, further comprising the launcher including a guide secured to the launcher housing, the guide configured to direct the rotating projectile onto the launch surface of the launcher.

8. An apparatus, as in claim 5, further comprising a packaging including an inner surface defining a flight chamber adapted to contain the projectile after the projectile is launched from the launcher and while in motion independent of the launcher, the motion of the projectile being visible from outside the packaging.

9. A method, comprising:

providing a launcher configured to launch a projectile, the launcher comprising a launch surface, a spindle and a peripheral wall, the peripheral wall extending around at least a portion of the launch surface and the spindle, the projectile comprising a hub and a lift generating surface, the hub defining a spindle receptacle;

releasably securing the projectile on a spindle over a launching surface of the launcher;

rotating the projectile;

launching the projectile into free flight from of the launcher;

receiving the projectile on the launch surface of the launcher;

contacting the peripheral wall and the launch surface with a peripheral edge of the projectile to juxtapose the hub with an upper surface of the spindle;

receiving the spindle receptacle of the hub over the spindle; and

engaging the spindle with a retention member of the spindle receptacle to reset the projectile in the launcher for a subsequent launch.

10. A method, comprising:

providing a launcher configured to launch a projectile, the launcher comprising a launch surface, a spindle receptacle and a peripheral wall, the peripheral wall extending around at least a portion of the launch surface and the spindle, the projectile comprising a hub and a lift generating surface, the hub having a spindle extending from a lower surface;

releasably securing the spindle of the projectile on the spindle receptacle over a launching surface of the launcher;

rotating the projectile;

launching the projectile into free flight from of the launcher;

receiving the projectile on the launch surface of the launcher;

contacting the peripheral wall and the launch surface with a peripheral edge of the projectile to juxtapose the hub with an upper surface of the spindle;

receiving the spindle of the rotating projectile over the spindle receptacle of the launcher; and

engaging the spindle with a retention member of the spindle receptacle to reset the projectile in the launcher for a subsequent launch.