U.S. patent application number 14/562671 was filed with the patent office on 2016-06-09 for automatic ball launcher.
The applicant listed for this patent is Radio Systems Corporation. Invention is credited to Eric A. Ward.
Application Number | 20160161208 14/562671 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55754534 |
Filed Date | 2016-06-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160161208 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ward; Eric A. |
June 9, 2016 |
Automatic Ball Launcher
Abstract
A ball launching apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a
funnel residing at an upper end of a housing. The funnel includes a
channel for gravitationally directing a ball into a launch point
within an interior compartment of the housing. The apparatus
includes a hammer that strikes a ball through a chute, thereby
releasing the ball from the housing. Both the distance at which the
ball travels and the angle at which the ball leaves the chute may
be adjusted by the operator. A method of exercising a dog is also
provided herein.
Inventors: |
Ward; Eric A.; (Knoxville,
TN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Radio Systems Corporation |
Knoxville |
TN |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
55754534 |
Appl. No.: |
14/562671 |
Filed: |
December 6, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
124/7 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2208/14 20130101;
A63B 69/408 20130101; A63B 69/407 20130101; A01K 15/02 20130101;
F41B 7/00 20130101; A63B 65/12 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F41B 7/00 20060101
F41B007/00; A63B 65/12 20060101 A63B065/12 |
Claims
1. A ball launching apparatus, comprising: a housing having a
supporting base and an interior compartment; a funnel at an upper
end of the housing, the funnel being configured to gravitationally
direct a ball into a launch point within the interior compartment;
a chute adjacent the launch point defining a through-opening along
the housing; a platform within the interior compartment, wherein an
angle of the platform is adjustable relative to the base; a drive
motor configured to rotate a shaft within the interior compartment;
an elongated hammer residing along the platform, the hammer
comprising a proximal end, a distal end, and a through-opening for
receiving the shaft, wherein the distal end of the hammer defines a
ball striking surface, with the distal end being biased toward the
launch point by use of a spring maintained in tension to provide a
rotational biasing force, and wherein rotation of the shaft causes
rotation of the distal end of the hammer away from the launch
point; a ratchet head connected to and configured to rotate with
the drive shaft, the ratchet head having at least one ratchet
tooth, a strike post residing along the platform; a trigger release
arm comprising a proximal end and a distal end, with the distal end
of the trigger release arm supporting a pawl, and with the pawl
being configured to individually engage the at least one tooth on
the ratchet head and then release the ratchet head when a proximal
end of the trigger release arm has contacted the strike post,
whereupon the hammer is released to allow the biasing force on the
hammer to cause the ball striking surface of the hammer to
counter-rotate back towards the launch point, thereby striking the
ball and launching the ball through the chute; and a tension
adjustment knob residing external to the housing, wherein an
adjustment of the tension adjustment knob adjusts the location of
the strike post along the platform, thereby adjusting the degree of
tension placed on the spring before the trigger release arm
contacts the strike post.
2. The ball launching apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a
switch configured to sense the presence of a ball in the launch
point, and then send a signal to initiate rotation of the shaft for
the pre-designated period of time.
3. The ball launching apparatus of claim 2, wherein the launch
point comprises a cup for receiving a ball along a perimeter of the
platform, the cup comprising a cut-out portion for accommodating
travel of the striking surface of the hammer during striking of the
ball.
4. The ball launching apparatus of claim 2, wherein: the spring
resides along the platform and comprises a proximal end secured to
the platform, and a distal end operatively secured to the distal
end of the trigger release arm such that rotation of the shaft
applies increased tension to the spring to create the biasing
force; and the shaft extends up through the platform.
5. (canceled)
6. The ball launching apparatus of claim 4, wherein: the ratchet
head comprises a plurality of ratchet teeth; and the drive motor is
timed to continue rotation for a period of time after a ratchet
tooth has released the pawl to allow a next tooth on the ratchet
head to engage the pawl.
7. The ball launching apparatus of claim 6, wherein the plurality
of ratchet teach in the ratchet head comprises four, equi-radially
spaced teeth.
8. (canceled)
9. The ball launching apparatus of claim 6, wherein the distal end
of the spring is further operatively secured to (i) the proximal
end of the hammer, and (ii) the distal end of the trigger release
arm, such that rotation of the ratchet head induces rotational
movement of the hammer and corresponding movement of the trigger
release arm.
10. (canceled)
11. The ball launching apparatus of claim 6, wherein: an adjustment
of the tension adjustment knob comprises rotating the tension
adjustment knob; and the apparatus further comprises: a tensioning
gear track residing along a perimeter of the platform; and a
tension gear operatively engaged with the tension adjustment knob,
such that rotation of the tension adjustment knob causes the
tensioning gear track to travel along the perimeter of the
platform, thereby adjusting the location of the strike post to
provide a trigger release point.
12. The ball launching apparatus of claim 6, wherein: when
actuated, the drive shaft rotates in a counter-clockwise direction;
and when released, the hammer rotates in a clockwise direction to
strike the ball.
13. The ball launching apparatus of claim 11, wherein: the housing
comprises a first opening that receives a first turning shaft, the
first turning shaft operatively connecting the tension adjustment
knob with the tension gear; the tension adjustment knob is biased
inward towards the housing by means of a compression spring
residing along the first turning shaft; and the tension adjustment
knob comprises saw teeth configured to mate with saw teeth in the
first opening when the tension adjustment knob is in a default
state, but wherein the saw teeth of the tension adjustment knob may
be released from the mating saw teeth in the first opening by
application of a force pulling the tension adjustment knob away
from the first opening for rotation.
14. The ball launching apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: an
angle adjustment knob residing external to the housing, wherein an
adjustment of the angle adjustment knob adjusts the angle of the
platform relative to the base between 20.degree. and
45.degree..
15. The ball launching apparatus of claim 14, wherein: an
adjustment of the angle adjustment knob comprises rotating the
angle adjustment knob; and wherein the apparatus further comprises:
a rotational gear track extending up from a perimeter of the
platform; and an angle gear operatively engaged with the angle
adjustment knob, such that rotation of the angle adjustment knob
causes the rotational gear track and connected platform to pivot
relative to the base.
16. The ball launching apparatus of claim 15, further comprising: a
pair of pivotal connections residing on opposing sides of the
platform, defining a pivot axis for the platform.
17. The ball launching apparatus of claim 15, wherein: the housing
comprises a second opening that receives a second turning shaft,
the second turning shaft operatively connecting the angle
adjustment knob with the angle gear; the angle adjustment knob is
biased inward towards the housing by means of a compression spring
residing along the second turning shaft; and the angle adjustment
knob comprises saw teeth dimensioned to mate with saw teeth in the
second opening when the angle adjustment knob is in a default
state, but wherein the saw teeth of the angle adjustment knob may
be released from the mating saw teeth in the second opening by
application of a force pulling the angle adjustment knob away from
the second opening for rotation.
18. The ball launching apparatus of claim 2, wherein the housing
further comprises: a raised portion along an upper end of the
housing and positioned on a side of the housing adjacent the chute;
and a handle residing along the raised portion.
19. A method of exercising a dog, comprising: providing a ball
launching apparatus, the ball launching apparatus comprising: a
housing having a supporting base and an interior compartment; a
funnel at an upper end of the housing, the funnel configured to
gravitationally direct a ball into a launch point within the
interior compartment; a chute adjacent the launch point defining a
through-opening along the housing; a platform within the
compartment, wherein an angle of the platform is adjustable
relative to the base; a drive motor configured to rotate a shaft
within the compartment; an elongated hammer residing along the
platform, the hammer comprising a proximal end, a distal end, and a
through-opening for receiving the shaft, and a switch configured to
sense the presence of a ball in the launch point and then send a
signal to initiate rotation of the shaft for the pre-designated
period of time; and adjusting a biasing force, thereby adjusting
the force with which the hammer strikes the ball.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the ball launching apparatus
further comprises: a ratchet head connected to and configured to
rotate with the shaft, the ratchet head having at least one ratchet
tooth; a strike post residing along the platform; and a trigger
release arm, the trigger release arm comprising a proximal end and
a distal end, with the distal end of the trigger release arm
supporting a first pawl, with the first pawl being configured to
individually engage the teeth on the ratchet head and then release
the ratchet head when a proximal end of the trigger release arm has
contacted the strike post, whereupon the biasing force on the
hammer causes the striking surface of the hammer to strike the ball
and launch the ball through the chute.
21. The method of claim 20, wherein the drive motor is timed to
continue rotation for a period of time after the ratchet head has
released a ratchet tooth to allow a next tooth on the ratchet head
to engage the pawl.
22. The method of claim 19, wherein the ball has an outer diameter
of between 2.5 and 2.7 inches.
23. The method of claim 22, wherein the launch point accommodates a
ball having an outer diameter that is up to 5 percent larger than
2.5 inches, and up to 40 percent smaller than 2.7 inches.
24. The method of claim 19, wherein the launch point comprises a
cup for receiving a ball along a perimeter of the platform, the cup
comprising a cut-out portion for accommodating travel of the
striking surface of the hammer during striking of the ball.
25. The method of claim 19, wherein: the distal end of the hammer
defines a ball striking surface, with the distal end being biased
toward the launch point; and the ball launching apparatus is
configured such that rotation of the shaft for a pre-designated
period of time causes rotation of the distal end of the hammer away
from the launch point up to a launch point, whereupon the hammer is
released to allow a biasing force to rotate the distal end of the
hammer back towards the launch point, thereby striking the ball and
launching the ball through the chute
26. The method of claim 25, wherein the ball launching apparatus
further comprises: a spring residing along the platform maintained
in tension to provide the biasing force.
27. The method of claim 26, wherein the spring comprises a proximal
end secured to the platform, and a distal end operatively secured
to the distal end of the trigger release arm such that rotation of
the shaft applies increased tension to the spring to create the
biasing force
28. The method of claim 27, wherein: the ball launching apparatus
further comprises a tension adjustment knob residing external to
the housing; and the step of adjusting a biasing force comprises
turning the tension adjustment knob, wherein an adjustment of the
tension adjustment knob adjusts the location of a strike post along
the platform, thereby adjusting the degree of tension placed on the
spring before the trigger release arm contacts the strike post
during actuation of the shaft.
29. The method of claim 20, further comprising: providing a ball to
a dog; and overseeing the dog while the dog places the ball into
the funnel.
30. The method of claim 29, wherein: the ball launching apparatus
further comprises an angle adjustment knob residing external to the
housing; and the method further comprises turning the angle
adjustment knob to adjust the angle of the platform relative to the
base, thereby adjusting the angle at which the ball is launched
through the chute.
31. The method of claim 30, wherein the ball launching apparatus
further comprises a pair of pivotal connections residing on
opposing sides of the platform, defining a pivot axis for the
platform.
32. The method of claim 19, wherein the ball launching apparatus
further comprises: a motion sensor in electrical communication with
the drive motor, wherein a signal is sent from the motion sensor to
the drive motor to discontinue a drive cycle when motion is sensed
in front of the chute.
33. The method of claim 32, further comprising: replacing a facing
along the strike surface of the hammer to adjust the distance at
which the ball is launched.
34. A method of exercising a dog, comprising: providing a ball
launching apparatus, the ball launching apparatus comprising: a
housing having a supporting base and an interior compartment; a
funnel at an upper end of the housing, the funnel configured to
gravitationally direct a tennis ball into a launch point within the
interior compartment; a chute adjacent the launch point defining a
through-opening along the housing; a platform within the
compartment; a drive motor configured to rotate a shaft within the
compartment; an elongated hammer residing along the platform, the
hammer comprising a proximal end, a distal end, and a
through-opening for receiving the shaft, and a ratchet head
connected to and configured to rotate with the shaft, the ratchet
head having at least one ratchet tooth; a strike post residing
along the platform; a trigger release arm, the trigger release arm
comprising a proximal end and a distal end, with the distal end of
the trigger release arm supporting a pawl, with the pawl being
configured to individually engage the teeth on the ratchet head and
then release the ratchet head when a proximal end of the trigger
release arm has contacted the strike post, whereupon the biasing
force on the hammer causes the striking surface of the hammer to
strike the ball and launch the ball through the chute; a switch
configured to sense the presence of a ball in the launch point and
then send a signal to initiate rotation of the shaft for a
pre-designated period of time; adjusting a biasing force, thereby
adjusting the force with which the hammer strikes the ball; and
adjusting the angle of the platform relative to the base, thereby
adjusting the angle at which the ball is launched through the
chute.
35. The ball launching apparatus of claim 17, wherein the housing
further comprises a first opening that receives a first turning
shaft, the first turning shaft operatively connecting the tension
adjustment knob with the tension gear.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Not applicable.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
THE NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT
[0003] Not applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] This section is intended to introduce various aspects of the
art, which may be associated with exemplary embodiments of the
present disclosure. This discussion is believed to assist in
providing a framework to facilitate a better understanding of
particular aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it
should be understood that this section should be read in this
light, and not necessarily as admissions of prior art.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present inventive concept relates to the field of animal
exercising devices. More particularly, the invention relates to a
device that launches a ball (such as a tennis ball), and that has
an open top which allows the dog to return the ball and re-load it
into the ball launching device, whereupon the ball is re-launched
automatically.
TECHNOLOGY IN THE FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0006] It is desirable by pet owners to provide exercise and
entertainment for their canine pets. One common way of doing this
is to throw an object such as a stick or a ball, and then train the
dog to retrieve the object.
[0007] Several devices have been developed which enable a pet owner
to interact with a dog by using a ball launching device. One
category of ball launching devices is the manual ball launcher.
U.S. Pat. No. 8,418,681 entitled "Ball Thrower" and U.S. Pat. No.
7,823,571 entitled "Dog Exercising Apparatus and Method" present
examples of hand-operated ball launchers. These devices generally
require the pet owner to handle the ball, load the ball into the
launcher, and then sling the launcher in order to eject the
ball.
[0008] Another category of ball launching devices is the solenoid,
or "firing ram" launcher. U.S. Pat. No. 6,571,743 entitled "Remote
Control Ball Ejector" provides an example of such a launcher. This
launcher is electrically powered and remotely controlled to actuate
linear movement of a striking arm, thereby causing the ejection of
a ball from a housing.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 6,176,230 uses closely-related technology for
launching a ball in the form of a so-called hammer. The '230 patent
is entitled "Portable Projectile Launcher for Pet Amusement." The
hammer relies upon rotational movement of a striking arm rather
than the linear motion used by a firing arm.
[0010] The hammer of the '230 patent is marketed under the name
GoDogGo.RTM. Fetching Machine. The GoDogGo.RTM. pet product is
promoted as an automatic ball thrower that is designed specifically
for dogs "to allow for independent fetch or owner-controlled play
[using a] remote control. [The] GoDogGo interactive ball toy is
designed with an Automatic Sensor & Safety Switch with Auto
Stop Feature so GoDogGo [sic] will NOT run, rotate or launch unless
a ball is in the ready position." See http://www.godoggoinc.com/.
In actuality, the safety switch of the GoDogGo.RTM. product is a
gravity switch that is activated when a ball rolls into position;
it is not a safety switch for animals or people in the path of the
launched ball.
[0011] Still another category of ball launching devices is the fly
wheel device. Such devices employ a pair of adjacent rotating
wheels to hurl an object. Fly wheel launchers are commonly used to
throw baseballs and footballs for team or player practice.
Recently, fly wheel launchers have been adapted for use in
launching tennis balls for dogs. U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,691,012 and
8,287,404 entitled "Programmable Ball Throwing Apparatus" present
examples of fly wheel ball throwing devices.
[0012] U.S. Patent Publ. No. 2013/0228138 entitled "Pet Exercise
and Entertainment Device" offers another ball launching device that
uses fly wheels. This device is marketed by Hamill Partners, LLC of
Austin, Tex. as the iFtech.RTM.. The iFetch.RTM. pet product is
promoted at http://goifetch.com. The iFetch.RTM. product requires
motors to drive separate wheels (described in the application as
wheels 226) at high speed, and increased drive power to support the
dual motors. Additionally, to keep costs down, the iFetch.RTM. pet
products are somewhat miniaturized and require specially-purchased
miniature tennis balls.
[0013] A need exists for an improved automatic ball launcher for a
pet that does not rely upon rotating fly wheels. Further, a need
exists for a new portable ball launcher that uses a hammer, and
which is automatically actuated when a sensor senses the presence
of a ball as placed by a human or a dog. Still further, a need
exists for an improved ball launching apparatus that allows the
operator to adjust both the distance at which a ball is launched,
and the angle at which the ball is launched.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] A ball launching apparatus is provided herein. In one
embodiment, the ball launching apparatus first comprises a housing.
The housing serves to contain and at least partially conceal
certain mechanized components of the system, including an
electrical drive motor. The housing has a supporting base and an
interior compartment.
[0015] The ball launching apparatus also includes a funnel. The
funnel resides at an upper end of the housing. The funnel includes
a channel for gravitationally directing a ball into a launch point
within the interior compartment. Preferably, a cup is provided
below the funnel to secure the received ball at the launch
point.
[0016] The ball launching apparatus next includes a chute. The
chute resides adjacent the launch point. The chute defines a
through-opening along the housing through which a ball is launched
from the launch point.
[0017] The ball launching apparatus further includes a platform.
The platform resides within the compartment. Pivot connection
points are provided on opposing perimeter sides of the platform to
enable the platform to pivot. In one aspect, an angle of the
platform relative to the base is adjustable between 20.degree. and
45.degree.. Pivoting the platform adjusts the angle at which the
ball is launched through the chute.
[0018] The ball launching apparatus additionally comprises a drive
motor. The motor is configured to rotate a shaft within the
compartment. The shaft, in turn, rotates a ratchet head having
teeth.
[0019] The ball launching apparatus also has an elongated hammer.
The hammer resides along the platform and has a proximal end, a
distal end, and a through-opening for freely (substantially
non-frictionally) receiving the shaft. The through-opening is at
the proximal end of the hammer.
[0020] The hammer is configured such that rotation of the drive
shaft operatively causes the distal end of the hammer to be rotated
away from the launch point. The hammer is biased to rotate a
striking surface along the distal end of the hammer back towards
the launch point. Preferably, the biasing force is in a clockwise
direction.
[0021] It is preferred that the biasing force be generated by a
spring. The spring resides along the platform and is maintained in
tension to provide the biasing force. The spring has a first end
that is secured to the platform, and a second end that is
operatively connected to a proximal end of the hammer through a
pin. Rotation of the shaft applies increased tension to the spring
to create the biasing force.
[0022] The ball launching apparatus next includes a switch. The
switch is configured to sense the presence of a ball in the
launching point, and then send a signal to initiate rotation of the
shaft. In one aspect, the switch initiates operation of the drive
motor for a cycle of between 5 and 10 seconds.
[0023] In one aspect, the ball launching apparatus also comprises a
trigger release arm. The trigger release arm has a proximal end and
a distal end. The trigger release arm is pivotally secured to the
platform, while the distal end includes a hook or pawl that is
configured to engage a tooth of the ratchet head. As the drive
shaft and connected ratchet head rotate in response to actuation of
the drive motor, a tooth of the ratchet head temporarily engages a
pawl at the distal end of the trigger release arm. This serves to
increase tension held in the spring, thereby loading the biasing
force at the proximal end of the hammer.
[0024] In one aspect, a separate tooth in the ratchet head also
engages the hammer proximate the shaft, causing rotation of the
hammer. In a more preferred embodiment, a flange extending from the
proximal end of the hammer is connected to the distal end of the
trigger release arm, such as through a pin. In either instance,
rotation of the ratchet head and connected hammer reciprocally
induces counter-rotation of the trigger release arm. As the ratchet
head rotates and loads the spring, the pawl at the distal end of
the trigger release arm is ultimately released from the ratchet
tooth. When this occurs, the hammer is rapidly rotated back to a
neutral position. En route, the biasing force on the hammer causes
a striking surface at the distal end of the hammer to strike the
ball and launch the ball through the chute.
[0025] In one embodiment, the housing of the ball launching
apparatus comprises a raised portion. This raised portion resides
along an upper end of the housing, and is positioned on a side of
the housing where the chute is. The housing may further include a
handle residing along the raised portion.
[0026] A method of exercising a dog is also provided herein. In one
aspect, the method first includes providing a ball launching
apparatus. The ball launching apparatus is configured in accordance
with the apparatus described above in its various embodiments.
[0027] The method also includes providing a ball to a dog.
Preferably, the ball is a standard tennis ball having an outer
diameter of between about 2.5 and 2.7 inches. The method then
comprises training the dog to place the ball into the funnel. The
switch will sense the presence of the ball once it falls into the
launch point. The motor is actuated and the hammer strikes the
ball, sending it through the chute. The dog may then chase (or
"fetch") the ball, and return it to the funnel once again. In this
way, the dog is self-entertained and exercised.
[0028] The method may optionally include adjusting a tension in the
spring, thereby ultimately adjusting the distance in which the ball
travels when struck. The method may also optionally include
adjusting an angle of the platform relative to the base. This has
the effect of changing the angle at which the ball is released from
the chute. Preferably, making these adjustments is done by turning
or, optionally, sliding adjustment knobs residing external to the
housing.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] So that the manner in which the present inventions can be
better understood, certain illustrations, charts and/or flow charts
are appended hereto. It is to be noted, however, that the drawings
illustrate only selected embodiments of the inventions and are
therefore not to be considered limiting of scope, for the
inventions may admit to other equally effective embodiments and
applications.
[0030] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an automatic ball launcher
of the present invention, in one embodiment. A chute is seen along
a housing of the ball launcher.
[0031] FIG. 1B is a front view of the automatic ball launcher of
FIG. 1A. The chute is again seen, with a ball being in position for
launching.
[0032] FIG. 2A presents another perspective view of the ball
launcher of FIG. 1A, but taken from a rear perspective. A pair of
knobs residing external to the housing are visible. These represent
an angle adjustment knob and a tension adjustment knob.
[0033] FIG. 2B shows the same perspective view as FIG. 2A; however,
the housing is shown in cut-away view, exposing certain components
of the automatic ball launcher residing inside of an interior.
[0034] FIG. 3A is a left side elevation view of the ball launcher
of FIG. 1A.
[0035] FIG. 3B is a right side elevation view of the ball launcher
of FIG. 1A.
[0036] FIGS. 4A through 4D present various perspective views of
internal components of the automatic ball launcher, in a selected
embodiment.
[0037] FIG. 4A is a front view of the platform of the ball launcher
of FIG. 1A. The ball is placed along a launch point on a platform
and is in position to be struck by an elongated hammer.
[0038] FIG. 4B is a rear perspective view of the platform of the
ball launcher of FIG. 4A. The ball is again shown along the launch
point on the platform, with the hammer being in position to strike
the ball.
[0039] FIG. 4C is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the
platform of FIG. 4A. The tension adjustment knob and a connected
tension gear and engaged tensional gear track are more clearly
seen.
[0040] FIG. 4D is an enlarged perspective view of the platform of
FIG. 4B. The angle adjustment knob and a connected angle gear and
engaged rotational gear track are more clearly seen.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS
Definitions
[0041] For purposes of the present disclosure, it is noted that
spatially relative terms, such as "up," "down," "right," "left,"
"beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper" and the like, may be
used herein for ease of description to describe one element or
feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as
illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the
spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different
orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the
orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in
the figures is turned over or rotated, elements described as
"below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be
oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the
exemplary term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above
and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees
or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors
used herein interpreted accordingly.
[0042] As used herein, the term "ball" means a spherical object of
any size, so long as the outer diameter is suitable for being
received and carried in the mouth of a canine pet.
[0043] As used herein, the term "pawl" means any hook or portion
that extends from an arm to engage a tooth.
Description of Selected Specific Embodiments
[0044] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an automatic ball launcher
100 of the present invention, in one embodiment. The ball launcher
100 defines a housing 110 having an upper end 112 and a lower end
114. The upper end 112 supports a handle 116 that is machined into
or otherwise attached to an extended upper portion 118 of the
housing 110. The handle 116 facilitates lifting and moving of the
ball launcher 100. At the same time, the lower end 114 provides a
base for supporting the housing 110 and mechanical components once
the ball launcher 100 is desirably located.
[0045] The automatic ball launcher 100 is designed to serve as an
exercising toy for a canine. The launcher 100 allows the canine to
retrieve a ball, place the ball into a funnel 120 residing in the
upper end 112 of the housing 110, and then wait for a ball 150 to
be launched from the housing 110, whereupon the ball 150 may once
again be retrieved.
[0046] The ball launcher 100 is configured to launch the ball 150
from a chute 115. FIG. 1B presents a front elevation view of the
ball launcher 100. A ball 150 is partially seen, ready to be
launched through the chute 115. In addition, the handle 116 is more
clearly seen.
[0047] It is preferred that the handle 116 and the upper extended
portion of the housing 110 reside at the front of the ball launcher
100. The reason is that the owner wants the dog to retrieve the
ball 150 and place it in the funnel 120 from a back side of the
housing 110. This prevents the dog (not shown) from being struck by
a next ball 150 that is being launched through the chute 115.
[0048] FIG. 2A presents another perspective view of the ball
launcher 100 of FIG. 1A. Here, the view is taken from a rear of the
housing 110. An optional channel 122 is now visible, formed in the
funnel 120. The channel 122 directs a ball 150 to a launch point
250 within the housing 110 as the ball 150 gravitationally falls
from the funnel 120. The funnel 120 is preferably dimensioned to
hold several balls in series.
[0049] FIG. 2A also shows two features that are related to
providing power to the ball launcher 100. The first feature is a
power switch 125. The power switch 125 is preferably a rocker
switch designed to provide two basic settings--on and off. The
second feature is a female power plug jack 127. The jack 127 serves
as a receptacle or AC adapter for receiving the tip of a power
cord.
[0050] Also of interest, FIG. 2A presents a pair of knobs 130, 140.
Each knob 130, 140 resides external to the housing 110 and is
configured to be rotated to adjust a setting of the ball launcher
100. The first knob 130 is a tension adjustment knob. As will be
described more fully below, the tension adjustment knob 130 allows
the pet owner (or toy operator) to adjust the tension of a spring
(shown at 420 in the FIG. 4 series of drawings) within the housing
110. This, in turn, allows the pet owner to adjust the distance at
which the ball 150 is launched from the toy 100. The second knob is
an angle adjustment knob 140. The angle adjustment knob 140 allows
the pet owner (or toy operator) to adjust the angle of orientation
of a platform (shown at 410 in the FIG. 4 series of drawings)
within the housing 110. This, in turn, allows the pet owner to
adjust the angle at which the ball 150 is launched through the
chute 115.
[0051] FIG. 2B is another perspective view of the automatic ball
launcher 100. This shows the same view as in FIG. 2A. The housing
110 is cut away, exposing certain components of the automatic ball
launcher 100 residing inside of an interior of the housing 110. The
components include the platform 410, the spring 420 and a cup 450
for holding the ball 150 at a launch point 250. These and other
components will be described more fully below in connection with
the FIG. 4 series of drawings.
[0052] FIG. 3A is a left side elevation view of the ball launcher
of FIG. 1A. Reciprocally, FIG. 3B is a right side elevation view of
the ball launcher of FIG. 1A. Each of these views presents the
housing 110 and the handle 116. Each view also shows the angle
adjustment knob 140. FIG. 3A shows the chute 115, which defines a
through-opening through the housing 110. FIG. 3B shows the tension
adjustment knob 130. Beneficially for marketing purposes, the
illustrative tension adjustment knob 130 is in the somewhat
cartoonish but aesthetically pleasing form of a dog bone.
[0053] FIG. 3B provides a better view of the power switch 115 and
the power receptacle 127. Of course, the ball launcher 100 may also
be powered through one or more batteries, or a battery pack (not
shown). The batteries may be, for example, charged through solar
energy. In one aspect, six D-cell batteries are used.
Alternatively, a small lithium ion battery may be used.
[0054] FIGS. 4A through 4D present various perspective views of
internal components of the automatic ball launcher 100, in a
selected embodiment. FIG. 4A is a front perspective view of the
platform 410 of the ball launcher 100, while FIG. 4B is a rear view
of the platform 410. The platform 410 is used to support internal
components. Beneficially, the platform 410 is designed to pivot
along a pair of aligned pivot connection points 432, 433. The pivot
connection points 432, 433 represent small cylinders that are
supported above the platform 410. In one aspect, the cylinders 432,
433 are supported on the inside face of the housing 110, forming an
axis of rotation.
[0055] It is understood that the pivot connection points 432, 433
may have other arrangements. For example, the pivot connection
points could define pins that extend outward from the perimeter of
the platform 410, and that extend through small through-openings in
the housing 110. Inversely, the pivot connection points could
define short cylinders that extend outward from the perimeter of
the platform 410, and that receive short pins (not shown) that
extend inwardly from the housing 110.
[0056] In each of FIGS. 4A and 4B, a ball 150 is shown along a
launch point 250 on the platform 410. The ball 150 is in position
to be struck by the elongated hammer 460. It is noted that the cup
450 has a through-opening 455. The through-opening 455 accommodates
a striking surface 463 of the hammer 460 as it approaches the ball
150. The striking surface 463 may optionally have raised patterns,
or may have an angled hitting face to impart loft to a struck ball
150. Alternatively, the striking surface 463 of the hammer 460 may
have removable edges fabricated from different materials that
create different launching characteristics of the ball 150 during
striking. For example, some interchangeable surfaces 463 may be
softer and some may be harder.
[0057] As noted above, a biasing force is applied to the hammer 460
in order to cause the hammer 460 to move towards the ball 150.
Preferably, the biasing force is applied by a spring 420 that is
held in tension. The spring 420 has a proximal end that is secured
to the platform 410 at a connection pin 422. At the same time, the
spring 420 has a distal end 424 that is operatively secured to a
proximal end 464 of the hammer 460. More specifically, the distal
end 424 of the spring 420 is connected to a flange 468 of the
hammer 460.
[0058] Rotation of the proximal end 464 of the hammer 460 away from
the connection point 422 of the spring 420 adds tension to the
spring 420. A release of that tension causes the striking surface
463 to rapidly rotate towards the ball 150.
[0059] To add tension to the spring 460, the automatic ball
launcher 100 first includes a drive motor 415. The drive motor 415
preferably resides on an under-surface 412 of the platform 410. The
drive motor 415 has a shaft (not visible) that extends up through
the platform 410 and connects to a ratchet driver 465. Preferably,
the shaft extends up through an opening in the proximal end 464 of
the hammer 460, while the ratchet driver 465 resides over the
proximal end 464 of the hammer 460. Preferably, the shaft drives
the ratchet driver 465 in a counter-clockwise direction. Of
interest, the hammer 460 is free to rotate about the shaft in
either direction, not being mechanically coupled to the shaft
itself.
[0060] It is understood that the drive motor 415 will include a
gear box that houses the shaft and appropriate electrical wiring.
The gear box is affixed to the underside of the platform 410. The
gear box may also house a micro-processor or circuitry having
firmware. The micro-processor or circuitry is arranged to
communicate with a sensor (not shown) that senses the presence of a
ball 150 at the launch point 250. When the sensor senses a ball
150, a switch sends a signal to initiate rotation of the shaft for
a pre-designated period of time, such as 5 to 10 seconds.
[0061] The ratchet driver 465 includes a plurality of teeth 467. In
the arrangement of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the ratchet driver 465 has four
teeth 467 equi-radially spaced around the ratchet driver 465.
[0062] The automatic ball launcher 100 also includes a spring
adjustment arm 470. The spring adjustment arm 470 is pivotally
connected to the platform 410 through a pin 477. The spring
adjustment arm 470 has a proximal end 472 that resides along the
platform 410. The proximal end 472 includes a "striking" post 436,
which serves as a rotational stop member of trigger release arm 474
in one direction. The proximal end 472 abuts a post 475, which
serves as a rotational stop member of a tensioning gear track 435
in one direction.
[0063] The automatic ball launcher 100 further includes the trigger
release arm 474. A distal end of the trigger release arm 474
includes a pair of pawls 471, 473. A first pawl 471 is configured
to catch a ratchet tooth 467 as the ratchet driver 465 is rotated.
A second pawl 473 is pivotally connected to the flange 468 at the
proximal end 464 of the hammer 460 by means of pin 461. In this
way, the trigger release arm 474 moves with the proximal end 464 of
the hammer 460.
[0064] The shaft of the drive motor 415, the hammer 460, the
ratchet driver 465, and the trigger release arm 474 essentially
rotate together to place tension on the spring 420. The pawl 471 is
held into contact with the ratchet tooth 467' where the spring 420
is mounted between the proximal end 464 of the hammer 460 and the
trigger release arm 474.
[0065] As noted, the spring adjustment arm 470 includes a strike
post 436. The location of the post 436 along the platform is
adjusted by using the tension adjustment knob 130, described more
fully below. Rotation of the tension adjustment knob 130 moves the
location of the post 436 of the spring adjustment arm 470, giving
input to the trigger release arm 474 at the point where the pawl
471 is to release the ratchet tooth 467'.
[0066] As the drive motor 415 turns the ratchet driver 465
counter-clockwise, the distal end of the trigger release arm 474 is
carried with it. This adds tension to the spring 420. The proximal
and of the trigger release arm 474 will eventually engage the
strike post 436. This, in turn, will cause the trigger release arm
474 to pivot about pin 477, causing the pawl 471 to release the
ratchet tooth 467'. Upon release, the hitting arm 460 rapidly
rotates the other direction (clockwise) to hit the ball 150,
causing the ball 150 to quickly travel (or be launched) through the
chute 115.
[0067] It is observed that the ratchet driver 465 preferably has
four teeth 467. The multi-tooth arrangement gives the launcher 100
a quicker tension time versus an alternate design, as the spring
420 can be given tension in a smaller angle, that is, on the order
of 90.degree. rather than a full 360.degree.. In addition, the
adjustable release location of the trigger release arm 470 allows
for varying spring tension releases, which will vary the force in
which the ball 150 is hit.
[0068] In operation, as the ratchet driver 465 is rotated, a first
tooth 467' on the ratchet driver 465 engages the first pawl 471 of
the trigger release arm 474. This causes the trigger release arm
474 to begin pivoting with the ratchet driver 465. The second pawl
473, which is operatively connected to the distal end 424 of the
spring 420 through pin 461, moves with the first pawl 471, loading
the spring 420 in the process. In a preferred embodiment, the
second pawl 473 is pivotally connected to the flange 468 at the
proximal end 464 of the hammer 460, also by means of the pin 461.
Optionally, a second opposing tooth 467'' will engage a hook (not
shown) along the hammer 460 to cause the flange 466 at the proximal
end 464 of the hammer 460 to move with the rotating ratchet driver
465. In either instance, the distal end 462 of the hammer 460 moves
away from the ball 150.
[0069] The counter-clockwise rotation of the shaft indirectly turns
the hammer 460 counter-clockwise while the ratchet tooth 467' is
engaged on the first pawl 471 of the trigger release arm 474.
Rotation of the shaft adds tension to the spring 420, which in turn
is attached to the hammer 460. As the ratchet driver 465 continues
to rotate, the first tooth 467' will eventually pull away from the
first pawl 471, induced by a proximal end of the trigger release
arm 474 contacting the post 436. The distal end 462 of the hammer
460 will be released from the tooth 467' and will rapidly rotate
back towards the ball 150 under the force of the recoiling spring
420. This means that the hammer 460 will rotate clockwise from the
spring tension. The striking surface 463 will pass through the
through-opening 455, striking the ball 150 and causing the ball 150
to be launched through the chute 115. A dog may then pursue or
"fetch" the ball 150. The driver motor 415 may immediately stop, or
may continue to rotate the shaft for a designated period of time
until a next ratchet tooth 467'' or 467''' engages the pawl 471.
The drive shaft will then stop rotating the ratchet driver 465
until a new ball is sensed by the switch at the launch point
250.
[0070] It is noted that the ratchet teeth 467 on the ratchet driver
465 could vary in number from one to more than one, until the
number was so great it would become unfeasible. Less teeth makes
the reload time longer because the shaft must turn far enough to
pull tension on the spring. If only one tooth is on the ratchet
wheel, the shaft must turn 360.degree. to reload the max tension on
the spring 420. Where the ratchet driver 465 has four teeth 467, it
need only turn 90.degree. to reload the max tension on the spring
420.
[0071] Preferably, a motion sensor is positioned along a front side
of the housing 110. If the motion sensor senses the presence of a
person or dog near the chute 115, the drive motor 415 is
immediately cut off. This prevents the hammer 420 from striking a
ball 150.
[0072] In one embodiment, the ball launcher 100 of the present
invention allows the operator to indirectly adjust the spring 420
tension. This, in turn, allows the operator to modify the distance
at which the ball 150 is launched from the chute 115. To implement
this feature, the ball launcher 100 includes a tension adjustment
knob 130. The tension adjustment knob 130 is used to turn a
tensioning gear 438.
[0073] FIG. 4C is an enlarged perspective view of the platform of
FIG. 4A. The tension adjustment knob 130 and the connected
tensioning gear 438 are more clearly seen. The tensioning gear 438
is connected to the tensioning knob 130 by means of a shaft 432.
Rotation of the knob 130 causes the shaft 432 and connected
tensioning gear 438 to move a horizontally oriented tensioning gear
track 435. This, in turn, moves the spring adjustment arm 470,
which adjusts the location of the strike post 436, which ultimately
moves the point at which the first tooth 467' of the ratchet driver
465 releases the first pawl 471. The effect is to change the amount
of tension applied to the spring 420 before the hammer 460 is
released to strike a ball 150.
[0074] It is observed that vibrations generated by the drive motor
may cause the position of the tensioning gear track 435 to
incidentally move. To prevent this unintentional movement and to
hold the position of the tensioning knob 130 along the housing 110,
an optional locking mechanism may be provided. In the view of FIGS.
1B and 4B, pins 137 are placed under the knob 130. The pins 137
mate with saw teeth 117 in the housing 110. The mated pins 137 and
saw teeth 117 hold the knob 130 and operatively connected
tensioning gear 438 in place, preventing rotation. This, in turn,
prevents movement of the tensioning gear track 435.
[0075] It is again observed that a post 475 is provided along the
platform 410. The post 475 is a fixed object that prevents movement
of the tensioning gear track 435 into the chute 115, where it might
interfere with launching of a ball 150. This also acts as a maximum
spring tension stop.
[0076] The knob 130 is further secured relative to the housing 110
by means of a compression spring 439. The compression spring 439
resides along and is connected to the shaft 132. The compression
spring 439 biases the knob 130 into the housing 110 so that the
pins 137 stayed locked into the saw teeth 117. To release the pins
137 from the saw teeth 117, the operator pulls on the knob 130,
overcoming the inward biasing force of the spring 439 and releasing
the pins 137 from the saw teeth 117.
[0077] In another aspect, the ball launcher 100 of the present
invention allows the operator to adjust the angle of the platform
410 relative to the housing 110. This, in turn, allows the operator
to adjust the angle at which the ball 150 is launched from the
chute 115. To implement this feature, the ball launcher 100
includes an angle adjustment knob 140. The angle adjustment knob
140 is used to turn an angle gear 448.
[0078] FIG. 4D is another enlarged perspective view of the platform
410 of FIG. 4A. The angle adjustment knob 140 and connected angle
gear 448 are more clearly seen. The angle gear 448 is connected to
the angle adjustment knob 140 by means of a shaft 142. Rotation of
the knob 140 causes the shaft 142 and connected angle gear 448 to
move a vertically oriented angle gear track 445.
[0079] The angle gear track 445 is secured to the platform 410 by
means of a base plate 444. The base plate 444 is connected to the
platform 410. In this way, as the angle gear track 445 is moved up
or down, the platform 410 pivots about the axis of rotation defined
by the pivot connections 432, 433. This, in turn, changes the angle
at which the hammer 460 rotates to strike the ball 150. The
ultimate effect is to change the angle at which the ball 150 is
launched from the chute 115.
[0080] It is observed that vibrations generated by the drive motor
may cause the position of the angle gear track 445 to move. To
prevent this movement and to hold the position of the angle
adjustment knob 140 along the housing 110, an optional locking
mechanism may be provided. In the view of FIG. 4A, pins 147 are
placed under the knob 130. The pins mate with saw teeth 117 in the
housing 115. The mated pins 137 and saw teeth 117 hold the knob 140
and operatively connected angle gear 448 in place, preventing
rotation. This, in turn, prevents movement of the angle gear track
445.
[0081] The knob 140 is further secured relative to the housing 110
by means of a compression spring 449. The compression spring 449
resides along and is connected to the shaft 142. The compression
spring 449 biases the knob 140 into the housing 110 so that the
pins 147 stay locked into the saw teeth 117 To release the pins 147
from the saw teeth 117 the operator pulls on the knob 130,
overcoming the inward biasing force of the compression spring 449
and releasing the pins 137 from the saw teeth 117
[0082] In an alternate embodiment, adjustment of the angle of the
platform 410 relative to the housing 110 is done, not by turning a
knob and moving a gear, but by sliding the knob 140 along a
vertical track (not shown).
[0083] As can be seen, a novel ball launching apparatus is offered
herein. The ball launching apparatus allows a dog to fetch a ball
and then return the ball by placing it into a funnel at the top of
the apparatus, wherein the ball falls into a launch point within a
housing of the apparatus. As long as power is on, the ball launcher
senses the presence of the ball and then re-launches it.
Beneficially, the ball launching apparatus does not rely upon fly
wheels or a solenoid for launching the ball. Further, the apparatus
enables the operator to both adjust the distance at which the ball
is launched, and the angle at which the apparatus launches the ball
through a chute.
[0084] In a preferred embodiment, the novel ball launcher 100 is
configured to store tension in a spring. The stored tension is
released, allowing a hammer to rotate into a waiting ball. The
motor will turn the hammer one rotation direction and a trigger
release arm (or "release lever") will allow the hammer to move in
the other rotational direction while using the spring tension.
[0085] The hammer is part of a hitting arm assembly. The hitting
arm assembly consists of several components working together on the
output shaft of a gearbox. The hitting arm employs a hammer that is
free to rotate either direction, not being mechanically coupled to
the shaft. The shaft is keyed to a ratchet driver (or "ratchet
teeth star wheel) and is driven by the gearbox in one direction.
The star wheel has four ratchet teeth. The ratchet teeth contact
the release lever arm and lock the assembly for rotation.
[0086] The entire hitting arm assembly rotates to place tension on
the spring. The release lever arm is held into contact with the
ratchet tooth with a spring mounted between the release lever and
the hitting arm. An adjustable release location for the lever arm
allows for varying spring tension releases, which will vary the
force in which the ball is hit. This will allow for short, medium
or long distance launches from the device, also to match the
environment specific needs. The hammer rotates the other direction
to hit the ball, causing it to exit the device.
[0087] The entire internal assembly of the hitting arm, motor and
gearbox is angle adjustable by the user. This allows for balls to
be launched at different angles for environment-specific needs. If
a user wishes to use the launcher indoors, they may choose a low
angle (and less spring tension) for indoor play. If the user wishes
to use the launcher outdoors, they have the option to adjust to a
high angle for maximum launch distance. In one aspect, a facing
along the strike surface of the hammer may be replaced or changed
out to adjust the distance at which the ball is launched through
the chute.
[0088] The ball launching device includes a sensor which will
prohibit the launch sequence if an object is in the path of the
launching ball near the unit. The device will have an on/off
switch. The device includes a sensor to detect when a ball is
presented for launch. The device will be shaped to allow a pet to
drop a ball into the loading area, with a funnel effect. The ball
will gravity feed into the waiting area for launch.
[0089] One ball in play at a time will be the preferred mode of
operation. When the pet drops the ball into the load area, the ball
will roll into the launch point. The sensor will detect the ball,
and another sensor will ensure no object is in front of the chute,
and the device will activate launch sequence. The ball will then be
launched for the pet. The pet will capture the ball and bring it
back to the load area.
[0090] In one aspect, the ball launching apparatus is driven by
software, which provides for a cool down period for pets which do
not rest. The device will not operate for a preset cool down
period. After the cool down period is over, the unit will alert the
pet with a tone, or series of tones. The unit will then launch the
ball and play will resume.
[0091] A method of exercising a dog is also provided herein. In one
aspect, the method first includes providing a ball launching
apparatus. The ball launching apparatus is configured in accordance
with the apparatus 100 described above in its various
embodiments.
[0092] The method also includes providing a ball to a dog.
Preferably, the ball is a standard tennis ball having an outer
diameter of between about 2.5 and 2.7 inches. However, the ball
launching apparatus is configured to accommodate both a
standard-sized tennis ball and a ball that is up to 5 percent
larger than 2.5 inches or 40 percent smaller than 2.7 inches in
outer diameter.
[0093] The method also comprises training the dog to place the ball
into the funnel. The switch will sense the presence of the ball
once it falls into the launch point. The motor is actuated and the
hammer strikes the ball, sending the ball through the chute. The
dog then chases (or "fetches") the ball, and returns it to the
funnel once again. In this way, the dog is self-entertained and
exercised.
[0094] The method may optionally include adjusting a tension in the
spring, thereby ultimately adjusting the distance in which the ball
travels when struck. This may be done by turning a tensioning knob
residing external to the housing to move a gear along a
horizontally-oriented tensioning gear track residing inside of the
housing. The method may also optionally include adjusting an angle
of the platform relative to the base. This has the effect of
changing the angle at which the ball is released from the chute.
This may be done by turning an angle adjustment knob residing
external to the housing to move a gear along a vertically-oriented
angle adjustment gear track residing inside of the housing.
[0095] An advantage of the design provided herein is that there is
no power drain on the batteries after the ball is launched. There
is not a need to maintain power to a fly wheel, for instance,
between launches. Another advantage of the design is the fact that
the slight pre-tension on the spring allows the hitting arm to be
positioned out of the way of the ball launch point. Yet another
advantage is that the angle position of the spring mount can be
modified to allow for more force to be applied to the ball, at the
expense of the arm position in the pre-launch position.
[0096] Variations of the ball launching apparatus and of the method
for exercising a dog may fall within the spirit of the claims,
below. It will be appreciated that the inventions are susceptible
to modification, variation and change without departing from the
spirit thereof.
* * * * *
References