U.S. patent application number 17/199372 was filed with the patent office on 2022-09-15 for trap machine with a spring manipulation mechanism.
The applicant listed for this patent is Bushnell Inc.. Invention is credited to Christopher Bird, Michael Courpet, Joe Dunning, Aaron Taylor.
Application Number | 20220290952 17/199372 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006560456 |
Filed Date | 2022-09-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220290952 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dunning; Joe ; et
al. |
September 15, 2022 |
TRAP MACHINE WITH A SPRING MANIPULATION MECHANISM
Abstract
Disclosed is a trap machine that launches clay targets, and more
particularly, relates to a trap machine comprising a lever that
provides for manipulation of tension in the main spring of the
machine.
Inventors: |
Dunning; Joe; (Oroville,
CA) ; Bird; Christopher; (Oroville, CA) ;
Courpet; Michael; (Oroville, CA) ; Taylor; Aaron;
(Oroville, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Bushnell Inc. |
Overland Park |
KS |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006560456 |
Appl. No.: |
17/199372 |
Filed: |
March 11, 2021 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41J 9/24 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F41J 9/24 20060101
F41J009/24 |
Claims
1. A clay target launching machine comprising a motor assembly; a
throwing arm operatively coupled to the motor assembly such that
actuation of the motor assembly is translated into pivoting of the
throwing arm to launch a clay target; a housing that supports, at
least in part, the motor assembly and the throwing arm; a
tensioning spring having a first end and a second end, the first
end operatively connected to the motor assembly and the second end
engaged to a first end of a threaded bolt, wherein the first end of
the threaded bolt is configured to be engaged by a lever, and a
second end of the threaded bolt passes through a hole in the rear
of the housing and engages the rear of the housing with a nut
engaged to the threaded second end of the threaded bolt; and
further comprising a lever having a first end configured to
releasably engage the threaded bolt and engage a fulcrum on the
housing and a second end comprising a handle; and the lever is
configured to pivot about the fulcrum from a first position to a
second position.
2. The clay target launching machine of claim 1 wherein when the
lever is engaged to the first end of the threaded bolt and moved
from the first position to the second position, the tensioning
spring is extended and tension between the threaded bolt and the
rear of the housing is reduced, allowing for the nut to be moved
distally along the threaded bolt and disengaged from the rear of
the housing.
3. The clay target launching machine of claim 2 wherein when the
nut has been moved distally along the threaded rod and the lever is
returned to its first position, the spring is not under
tension.
4. The clay target launching machine of claim 1 wherein when the
first end of the lever is not engaged to the threaded bolt, it is
configured to engage a socket in a wheeled cart supporting the
housing to provide a handle for moving the wheeled cart.
5. The clay target launching machine of claim 1 wherein the first
end of the threaded bolt comprises two projections on opposed sides
of the first end and the first end of the lever is configured to
releasably engage the two projections on opposed sides of the first
end of the threaded bolt.
6. The clay target launching machine of claim 5 wherein the first
end of the lever comprises two projections, each having a hook
configured to engage one of the two projections on the first end of
the threaded bolt.
7. The clay target launching machine of claim 1 wherein the
threaded bolt comprises a flat side that does not comprise
threads.
8. The clay target launching machine of claim 1 wherein the
threaded bolt comprises one or more positions on the threaded bolt
configured that when the nut is positioned at the one or more
positions, the spring is under tension and the tension is
proportional to a desired distance for the throwing arm to throw
the clay target.
9. The clay target launching machine of claim 1 wherein when the
spring is not under tension, the throwing arm is configured to be
rotated and engaged to a rod attached to the housing so that the
throwing arm is disposed and held within the housing.
10. The clay target launching machine of claim 1 wherein the nut
comprises a knurled handle or a speed ball handle.
11. A method for reducing tension in a tensioning spring of a clay
target throwing machine, the method comprising: providing a clay
target throwing machine according to claim 1; engaging the first
end of the lever to the first end of the threaded bolt and the
fulcrum on the housing at a first position; moving the lever from
the first position to a second position, thereby extending the
tensioning spring and reducing tension between the threaded bolt
and the rear of the housing, allowing for the nut to be moved
distally along the threaded bolt and disengaged from the rear of
the housing; and moving the lever from the second position back to
the first position, thereby reducing tension in the tensioning
spring.
12. The method of claim 11 further comprising disengaging the first
end of the lever from the first end of the threaded bolt and the
fulcrum on the housing.
13. The method of claim 11 further comprising rotating the throwing
arm so that the throwing arm is disposed within the housing.
14. The method of claim 13 further comprising engaging the throwing
arm to a rod attached to the housing so that the throwing arm is
held within the housing.
15. The method of claim 1 wherein the first end of the threaded
bolt comprises two projections on opposed sides of the first end
and the first end of the lever is configured to releasably engage
the two projections on opposed sides of the first end of the
threaded bolt.
16. The method of claim 15 wherein the first end of the lever
comprises two projections, each having a hook configured to engage
one of the two projections on the first end of the threaded bolt.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a trap machine that
launches clay targets, and more particularly, relates to a trap
machine that allows selective release of tension in the main spring
of the machine.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Trap machines are target throwing devices for shooting
sports whether using a rifle, a gun or even a bow, with such
targets being in the form of clay saucers or discs and are
conventionally used to shoot sporting clays, skeet, and trap.
[0003] Sporting clays involves shooting clay targets at various
locations which are launched at different velocities and angles,
i.e., across the shooter's view, towards the shooter, or away from
the shooter. This experience closely resembles actual hunting
conditions since the sporting clays can be shot to resemble quail,
pheasants, doves, and other game birds, as well as high-flying
ducks or geese. Thus, it is more difficult for shooters to become
accustomed to the shots as they might for trap or skeet
shooting.
[0004] Skeet shooting involves shooting clays which are flung into
the air at high speed and is meant to simulate the action of bird
hunting. In one conventional arrangement, the shooter can be
positioned along a semi-circle connecting two launching stations, a
high house target and a low house target. The high house target
launches the target from a point up to 10 feet above ground, and
the low house target launches the target from a point up to 3 feet
off above ground.
[0005] Trap shooting involves shooting clays which are launched
from a single launching location, namely, a trap house positioned
at a distance in front of the shooter, at varying angles within a
range of 45 degrees to the left or right of a center position from
the trap house. The shooter rotates to several different positions
relative to the trap house.
[0006] Whether for shooting sporting clays, skeet, or trap, a
conventional trap machine has a spring-loaded throwing arm for
launching the clays.
[0007] Conventional trap machines do not allow for ease of
adjustment and removal of main spring. With current designs, the
adjustment nut is always under spring tension after initial
assembly. If the intent is to remove the main spring for
transport/storage, it would take a significant amount of time
because the nut is always under constant spring tension, requiring
significant torque to remove the adjustment nut. Due to the
difficulty in the adjustment and removal after assembly the
throwers are generally stored with the spring under tension.
[0008] Since the spring is not completely removed and is under
tension, the stored energy in the tensioned spring presents a
safety hazard. For instance, the spring tension means that the
throwing arm is held away from the housing of the machine and can
be damaged during transport. There is also the potential for the
throwing arm to fire accidentally.
[0009] Furthermore, conventional trap machines are difficult to
maintain. Keeping the spring under tension also causes excessive
friction on the nut and main spring bolt threads, which can cause
undesired wear and potentially premature failure. When parts become
worn due to the vibration of the trap machine when releasing and
launching the clays, major components must be replaced, and often,
the user will replace the entire machine rather than replace the
major components of the trap machine.
[0010] It is desirable to develop a trap machine that allows for
easy release of tension on the main spring to allow for improved
safety and reduced wear of parts of the trap machine.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSED SUBJECT MATTER
[0011] A clay target launching machine, according to one aspect of
the present disclosure, comprises
[0012] a motor assembly; a throwing arm operatively coupled to the
motor assembly such that actuation of the motor assembly is
translated into pivoting of the throwing arm to launch a clay
target; a housing that supports, at least in part, the motor
assembly and the throwing arm; a tensioning spring having a first
end and a second end, the first end operatively connected to the
motor assembly and the second end engaged to a first end of a
threaded bolt, wherein the first end of the threaded bolt is
configured to be engaged by a lever, and a second end of the
threaded bolt passes through a hole in the rear of the housing and
engages the rear of the housing with a nut engaged to the threaded
second end of the threaded bolt; and further comprising
[0013] a lever having a first end configured to releasably engage
the threaded bolt and engage a fulcrum on the housing and a second
end comprising a handle; and the lever is configured to pivot about
the fulcrum from a first position to a second position.
[0014] Embodiments of the clay target throwing machine include the
following, alone or in any combination.
[0015] The clay target launching machine wherein when the lever is
engaged to the first end of the threaded bolt and moved from the
first position to the second position, the tensioning spring is
extended and tension between the threaded bolt and the rear of the
housing is reduced, allowing for the nut to be moved distally along
the threaded bolt and disengaged from the rear of the housing.
[0016] The clay target launching machine wherein when nut has been
moved distally along the threaded rod and the lever is returned to
its first position, the spring is not under tension.
[0017] The clay target launching machine wherein when the first end
of the lever is not engaged to the threaded bolt, it is configured
to engage a fitting on a wheeled cart supporting the housing to
provide a handle for moving the wheeled cart.
[0018] The clay target launching machine wherein the first end of
the threaded bolt comprises two projections on opposed sides of the
first end and the first end of the lever is configured to
releasably engage the two projections on opposed sides of the first
end of the threaded bolt.
[0019] The clay target launching machine wherein the first end of
the lever comprises two projections, each having a hook configured
to engage one of the two projections on the first end of the
threaded bolt.
[0020] The clay target launching machine wherein the threaded bolt
comprises a flat side that does not comprise threads.
[0021] The clay target launching machine wherein the threaded bolt
comprises one or more positions on the threaded bolt configured
that when the nut is positioned at the one or more positions, the
spring is under tension and the tension is proportional to a
desired distance for the throwing arm to throw the clay target.
[0022] The clay target launching machine wherein when the spring is
not under tension, the throwing arm is configured to be rotated and
engaged to a rod attached to the housing so that the throwing arm
is disposed and held within the housing.
[0023] The clay target launching machine wherein the nut comprises
a knurled handle or a speed ball handle.
[0024] The clay target launching machine that includes a magazine
containing a predetermined number of clay targets.
[0025] In another aspect, provided is a method for reducing tension
in a tensioning spring of a clay target throwing machine, the
method comprising:
[0026] providing a clay target throwing machine as described above,
including any embodiments disclosed herein;
[0027] engaging the first end of the lever to the first end of the
threaded bolt and the fulcrum on the housing at a first
position;
[0028] moving the lever from the first position to a second
position, thereby extending the tensioning spring and reducing
tension between the threaded bolt and the rear of the housing,
allowing for the nut to be moved distally along the threaded bolt
and disengaged from the rear of the housing; and
[0029] moving the lever from the second position back to the first
position, thereby reducing tension in the tensioning spring.
[0030] Embodiments of the method include the following.
[0031] The method further comprising disengaging the first end of
the lever from the threaded bolt and the fulcrum on the
housing.
[0032] The method further comprising rotating the throwing arm so
that the throwing arm is disposed within the housing.
[0033] The method further comprising engaging the throwing arm to a
rod attached to the housing so that the throwing arm is held within
the housing.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0034] The foregoing and other features of the present invention
will be more readily apparent from the following detailed
description and drawings of the illustrative embodiments of the
invention wherein like reference numbers refer to similar elements
and in which:
[0035] FIG. 1 is a side view of a trap machine, according to an
exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.
[0036] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a trap machine,
according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject
matter.
[0037] FIG. 3 is a close-up rear perspective view of a trap
machine, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed
subject matter.
[0038] FIG. 4 is a close-up rear view of a trap machine, according
to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.
[0039] FIG. 5 is a top front perspective view of a trap machine,
according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject
matter.
[0040] FIG. 6 is a top side perspective view of a trap machine,
according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject
matter.
[0041] FIG. 7 is a front view of a trap machine, according to an
exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.
[0042] FIG. 8 is a close up rear perspective view of a trap machine
showing a lever disengaged from its storage position, according to
an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.
[0043] FIG. 9 is a close-up view of one end of a lever of a trap
machine, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed
subject matter.
[0044] FIG. 10 is a side view of a trap machine showing a lever
engaged to a tension bolt in a first position, according to an
exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.
[0045] FIG. 11 is a close up interior view of a trap machine
showing a lever engaged to a tension bolt in a first position,
according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject
matter.
[0046] FIG. 12 is a side view of a trap machine showing a lever
engaged to a tension bolt in a second position, according to an
exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.
[0047] FIG. 13 is a close up interior view of a trap machine
showing a lever engaged to a tension bolt in a second position,
according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject
matter.
[0048] FIG. 14 is a close up interior view of a trap machine
showing a lever engaged to a tension bolt in a second position,
according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject
matter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSED SUBJECT MATTER
[0049] The present disclosure relates to a trap machine that
launches clay targets, and more particularly, relates to a trap
machine that allows selective release of tension in the main spring
of the machine. However, it will be understood that the machine as
described herein can be used for shooting various types of objects
for other purposes. The inventive concepts of the present
disclosure can be incorporated into various types of launchers so
that they become easy to maintain, structurally stable and safe,
able to accurately time the release of the launched object with the
swing of a propelling member, e.g., an arm that launches the
object.
[0050] A clay target launching machine, according to one aspect of
the present disclosure, comprises
[0051] a motor assembly; a throwing arm operatively coupled to the
motor assembly such that actuation of the motor assembly is
translated into pivoting of the throwing arm to launch a clay
target; a housing that supports, at least in part, the motor
assembly and the throwing arm; a tensioning spring having a first
end and a second end, the first end operatively connected to the
motor assembly and the second end engaged to a first end of a
threaded bolt, wherein the first end is configured to be engaged by
a lever, and a second end of the threaded bolt passes through a
hole in the rear of the housing and engages the rear of the housing
with a nut engaged to the threaded second end of the threaded bolt;
and further comprising
[0052] a lever having a first end configured to releasably engage
the first end of the threaded bolt and engage a fulcrum on the
housing and a second end comprising a handle; and the lever is
configured to pivot about the fulcrum from a first position to a
second position.
[0053] FIG. 1 is a side view of a trap machine 1, according to an
exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. The trap
machine 1 comprises a housing 10, comprising a lower body 11. Lower
body 11 generally consists of a box comprising a closed front end
and open top and bottom that contains an electric motor (not shown)
in operable connection with throwing arm 20, a tensioning mechanism
including a spring (not shown) and a motor with one-way clutch
bearing (not shown) to transfer energy from the motor and the
spring to the throwing arm. The housing 10 also comprises a rear
panel 13 that extends above the lower body 11 and supports top
panel 12. The upper edge of lower body 11, the rear panel 13 and
the top panel 12 define a slot 14 in which throwing arm 20 rotates
through to receive a clay target and throw it downfield. Throwing
arm 20 comprises a long distal end 20a and a short proximal end 20b
and pivots or rotates about an axle within pivot 21 that is
connected to the motor by a drive shaft. The top panel 12 comprises
a magazine mount 15 for installation of a magazine for holding clay
targets (see FIGS. 5 and 6). Also shown is a restraining pin 18
that can extend through top panel 12 and engage the throwing arm 20
to hold it within the housing 10 when the spring is disengaged, as
discussed further below. Extending below the housing lower body 11
is a bar 19 that provides a fulcrum for a lever 40 to selectively
engage the tensioning mechanism and release tension, as discussed
further below.
[0054] Typically, the entire trap machine 1 is supported by and
carried on a frame or cart 30 such that it can be easily moved from
one location to another location. The trap machine 1 shown
comprises a cart 30 comprising a lower framework 31, wheels 32 and
an upper framework 33 that supports housing 10. For example as
shown in FIG. 1, the lower framework 31 can be in the form of rails
that are connected at one end thereof to a pair of wheels 32 to
permit the entire machine 1 to be moved. The cart 30 also comprises
a fitting 34 that engages first end 41 of lever 40 to hold it in a
storage configuration. Lever 40 also comprises a second end 42
comprising a handle. Lever 40 also comprises a bend 40a. In the
storage configuration lever 40 is configured as a steering device
to lift the rear of cart 30 and steer the cart 30 to a location by
a user grasping handle 42. Upper framework 33 comprises a knurled
knob 35 engaged to a rod that extends through upper framework 33
into housing lower body 11 to adjust the elevation tilt of the
housing 10 from essentially horizontal to an elevation angle of
0-50 degrees. Optionally, upper framework 33 can swivel relative to
lower framework 31 to adjust the horizontal direction that a clay
target is thrown by the machine.
[0055] Optionally, auxiliary actuators can be used to elevate
and/or swivel the housing to change the throwing angle for a throw
to provide a more varied shooting experience. The optional
actuators can be controlled by a user to change the vertical and/or
horizontal orientation the trap machine to adjust the trajectory of
a throw. In some embodiments, the optional actuators can be
controlled by a processor in the control module of the trap machine
that can change the throwing angle after one or more shots randomly
or according to a specified sequence.
[0056] Threaded bolt 50 extends through a hole in the rear panel 13
to engage a tensioning spring of the tensioning mechanism (not
shown) and is held in place by a nut in knurled knob 51. Also shown
in FIG. 1 is a battery 70 that provides power to the motor.
[0057] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a trap machine 1,
according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject
matter. An opening 16 in top panel 12 allows a clay target to pass
from the magazine (not shown) onto the throwing arm 20. Shown
attached to rear panel 13 is a control module 72 that contains
controls and circuitry to operate the trap machine 1.
[0058] FIG. 3 is a close-up rear perspective view of a trap machine
1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject
matter. In this view, housing 10 is shown in a non-horizontal
elevated configuration. Wheel 32 is shown engaged to the lower
framework 31 by an axle 32a. Upper framework 33 comprises a
horizontal panel 33a and vertical panels 33b extending above
opposed sides of the horizontal panel 33a. Shelf 37 on lower
framework 31 is configured to support the battery 70 and other
equipment.
[0059] FIG. 4 is a close-up rear view of a trap machine, according
to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. In the
embodiment shown, lever 40 is held in its storage position
off-center relative to the rear panel 13 of the housing to minimize
interaction between lever 40 and threaded bolt 50 and knurled knob
51.
[0060] FIG. 5 is a top front perspective view of a trap machine,
according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject
matter. This view shows a magazine comprising four uprights 15a
mounted at their bottom ends to top panel 12 positioned in a
generally square pattern in the magazine, and their top ends
attached to an open ring 15b. A stack of a plurality of clay target
discs can be loaded into the magazine nested between uprights 15a.
The magazine may typically store up to 80 clays in a single stack,
although some magazines comprise a plurality of stacks, such as
two, three or four stacks. The top panel 12 serves as a support
surface for the magazine and includes an opening, e.g., clay
release hole 16, formed therethrough to permit passage of a clay
target from the magazine to the throwing arm 20.
[0061] A ring 60, typically comprising hollow flexible tubing, can
be attached to housing 10 and supported by frame rods 61 and
provides a visual indicator of the path of the throwing arm 20
during operation of the trap machine 1. This safety feature warns a
user to stay away from the path of the throwing arm 20. When viewed
from above, the throwing arm rotates counterclockwise once during
each throw. In the view shown in FIG. 5, throwing arm 20 is shown
extending forward (at a 12 o'clock position) with the tensioning
spring detached. When the arm is at 12 o'clock, a user can thread
the nut in knurled knob 51 on the threaded bolt 50 until it
contacts the back of the trap machine at real panel 13. This would
be the first position to where the trap would not have "spring
slap". Throwing arm comprises a distal end 20a. A widened area,
proximate to the pivot 21, on the leading edge provides a receiver
plate 22 that receives a clay target from the magazine via hole 16.
A raised flange 23 on the trailing edge of arm 20 comprises an
elastomeric surface that engages the edge of the clay target disc
when it rests on the receiver plate 22. The distal end 20a extends
distally from receiver plate 22 and may optionally comprise a
plurality of perforations to minimize friction with the bottom
surface of a clay target disc.
[0062] The arm 20 is articulated about a substantially vertical
axis and is fixed to the upper end of a rotating shaft or axle
within pivot 21 supported by the housing lower body 11 and
extending into top panel 12, with said shaft being free to rotate
relative to the housing lower body 11 and top panel 12.
[0063] A motor assembly (not shown) including a motor is fixedly
mounted inside the housing lower body 11 and controls the actuation
and movement of the throwing arm 20. A drive shaft of the motor
rotates a drive shaft to rotate the throwing arm 20 engaged to the
top of the drive shaft. At the bottom of the drive shaft, an
eccentric cam or crank device is engaged to a first end of a coil
tensioning spring. The other end of the coil tensioning spring is
engaged to threaded bolt 50 inside the housing lower body 11.
Rotation of the drive shaft causes the eccentric cam to extend and
increase tension in the spring, building latent energy in the
spring. A nut engaged to the threaded bolt and engaged to the rear
panel 13 of the housing 10 can adjust the amount of initial tension
in the spring by moving proximally or distally along the threaded
region such that the amount of threaded bolt extending into the
housing decreases or increases respectively. When the amount of
threaded bolt extending into the housing decreases, the extension
of the spring increases. When the nut increases the tension in the
spring by extending the spring, the spring resists the rotational
motion of the drive shaft. Hence, the torque on throwing arm 20
increases and thereby its speed during a launch when the user turns
the nut to extend the spring.
[0064] When the amount of threaded bolt extending into the housing
increases, the extension of the spring decreases. When the user
decreases the tension in the spring by releasing the spring, the
spring provides less resistance to the rotation of the drive shaft.
Hence, the speed of the throwing arm 20 decreases when the user
turns the nut to release the spring.
[0065] Accordingly, the amount of maximum tension in the spring
during a launch cycle is proportional to a desired throwing
distance for a clay target and can be adjusted by the position of
the nut on the threaded bolt.
[0066] To launch targets after tightening the nut on the bolt 51, a
user turns the motor on and it rotates the throwing arm 20
counterclockwise to the position shown in FIG. 6 at about 7-8
o'clock, the so-called "zero point" where a limit (active) switch
is activated, stopping the motor from continuing. The throwing arm
cannot be stopped at the 12 o'clock position without removing the
mainspring assembly.
[0067] FIG. 6 is a top side perspective view of a trap machine,
according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject
matter. The throwing arm 20 is disposed at the 7 o'clock position,
with its leading edge entering the housing 10 such that the
receiver plate is positioned below the opening 16 in top panel 12
so that a clay target can be loaded onto the receiver plate from
the magazine. The torque on the arm from the tensioning spring is
approaching a maximum. Also shown in FIG. 6 is a cable harness 71
configured to attach to the battery and supply power to the motor
and the controls of the machine.
[0068] The machine 1 also includes a clay target loading assembly
that is positioned below the magazine and includes the top panel 12
and a moving gate disposed on an underside of the top panel 12 to
load targets from the magazine to the throwing arm. The clay
loading assembly is activated by the leading edge of throwing arm
20 engaging a trip mechanism, or by a crank or eccentric cam
disposed on the drive shaft below the top panel 12.
[0069] The moving gate is slidingly mounted to the underside of the
top panel 12. A number of fasteners, such as four shoulder bolts,
are slidingly mounted in a corresponding number (e.g., four) of
slots in the moving gate and the threaded ends of the shoulder
bolts are secured to the top panel 12, either directly or by
passing through holes in the top panel 12a and screwed into
threaded screw holes in plates engaged to the top panel 12. Thus,
the moving gate is allowed to slide with respect to the shoulder
bolts, which are stationary with respect to the top panel 12.
[0070] The top panel 12 includes the opening 16 (clay release hole)
through which the clays drop. The clay release hole 16 in the top
panel 12 is aligned with the stack of clays (not shown) in the
magazine, and the bottommost clay is positioned within the opening
16. The moving gate also includes a second clay release hole. As
the moving gate slides with respect to the top panel 12, a clay
drops by gravity onto the throwing arm 20 when the clay release
holes 16 and second clay release hole in the moving gate,
respectively, are aligned. When the clay release holes are aligned,
the clay drops to a clay launching position on the receiving plate
22 on throwing arm 20 located below the clay release holes in the
gap between the top panel 12 and the lower body 11 of the housing
10.
[0071] To initiate the launching of a target, a remote triggering
device discussed below commands the motor to turn a drive shaft to
rotate the arm 20. During this step, also called the step of
cocking, the motor starts to rotate drive shaft counter-clockwise.
While rotating counter-clockwise, going past the zero point
generates a motor torque on the arm 20 thanks to the extended
tension spring. As the arc traversed by the drive shaft increases,
the tension on the spring is increased and the amount of torque
imparted on the throwing arm increases.
[0072] Once the triggering device is triggered, it bypasses the
limit switch and allows the motor to move the arm to approximately
the 5:55 o'clock position where the spring force is at is strongest
tension and takes over. A clay target is loaded as the arm passes
through this position, as described below. The spring provides much
greater pull force than the motor and the one-way clutch bearing
allows the spring to launch the clay until the spring slows to the
speed of the motor and the motor will take over and bring the arm
back to the zero point, where it will activate the limit switch
again stopping the arm.
[0073] The throwing arm 20 is cocked each time the main motor
rotates through one cycle, i.e., one revolution. The trap machine 1
can be controlled using conventional techniques, including, the
user operating a handheld control or a foot pedal including a push
button switch to activate the trajectory motor to release the
cocked throwing arm 20. Thus, the user can activate the trap
machine at a distance from the trap machine using a remote
activation device. The handheld control or a foot pedal can be
connected to the controller in control module 72 by a wired or
wireless connection. However, it will be appreciated that any
number of other mechanisms can likewise be used, such as a
voice-activated controller.
[0074] Tension in the spring continues to increase torque on the
arm 20 as it rotates through the target loading region inside the
housing until the arm is rotated to the opposite side of the
housing (near the 5 o'clock position).
[0075] If such torque is not hindered by any obstacle, the
tensioning spring then suddenly contracts and the release of the
arm 20 causes the launching of the target. During the step of
launching, the arm 20 almost instantly rotates due to the
contracting action of the tensioning spring and release of
torque.
[0076] During the launching operation, the arm 20 rotates about its
axis and undergoes angular acceleration which presses the clay
target against the flange 23 while making the clay target roll
towards the distalmost portion of distal end 20a. The clay target
is then ejected while spinning around. The spin imparted on the
clay target during the throwing motion stabilizes its flight. The
release of the target from the throwing arm 20 occurs when the
throwing arm is at about the 12 o'clock position shown in FIG. 5.
Follow-through of the throw brings the arm 20 back to the zero
point at the 7:30-8 o'clock position.
[0077] As discussed above, conventional trap machines do not allow
for ease of adjustment of tension in and/or removal of the main
spring. Conventional trap machines provide a speed adjustor for the
throwing arm that requires a wrench. With current designs, the
adjustment nut is always under spring tension after initial
assembly, which can result in decreased safety and increased wear
on fine parts of the machine such as the threads on the threaded
bolt.
[0078] However, the present disclosure provides a more
user-friendly design for adjusting tension in the spring, and
thereby speed control of the throwing arm. The improved trap
machine disclosed herein provides a mechanism and method for
selectively releasing tension in the main spring.
[0079] The improved trap machine comprises a lever having a first
end configured to releasably engage a first end of the threaded
bolt and engage a fulcrum on the housing and a second end
comprising a handle; and the lever is configured to pivot about the
fulcrum from a first position to a second position. When the lever
is engaged to the first end of the threaded bolt and moved from the
first position to the second position, the tensioning spring is
extended and tension between the threaded bolt and the rear of the
housing is reduced, allowing for the nut to be moved distally along
the threaded bolt and disengaged from the rear of the housing. When
the nut has been moved distally along the threaded rod and the
lever is returned to its first position, the spring is not under
tension.
[0080] When the spring is not under tension, tension can be
introduced to the spring by engaging the first end of the lever to
the first end of the threaded bolt, moving the lever from its first
position to its second position, moving the nut proximally along
the threaded rod, and returning the lever to its first position;
and further disengaging the lever from the first end of the
threaded bolt.
[0081] FIG. 7 is a front view of a trap machine, according to an
exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. In this view,
lever 40 has been disengaged from its storage position and is
engaged to bar 19 between bend 40a and first end 41, which is
engaged to an end of threaded bolt 50 (not shown) inside lower body
11.
[0082] FIG. 8 is a close up rear perspective view of a trap machine
1 showing lever 40 disengaged from its storage fitting, according
to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. The
storage fitting 34 comprises a three-sided open box 34a configured
to engage first end 41 of lever 40, when first end 41 is disposed
vertically inside the box 34a. Pin 34b is attached to box 34a by
cable 34c and is configured to pass through holes 34d in opposed
sides of box 34a and holes 41c of lever first end 41 (see FIG. 9)
to lock the first end 41 to the fitting 34. FIG. 8 also shows
bushing 53 in a hole in the rear panel 13 that threaded bolt 50
(not shown) would pass through to enter the inside of housing lower
body 11 to engage the tensioning spring. When one end of the bolt
50 is engaged to the tensioning spring when it is under tension,
the bolt 50 is pulled toward the interior of the housing lower body
11 and a nut (not shown) engaged to the threaded segment of the
bolt 50 is pulled tightly against bushing 53. This makes adjusting
the tension of the tensioning assembly of conventional trap
machines difficult without use of a wrench.
[0083] FIG. 9 is a close-up view of the first end 41 of lever 40 of
the trap machine 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the
disclosed subject matter. First end 41 comprises two flat
projections 41a on opposed sides of first end 41. Projections 41a
each comprise hooks 41b at their ends. Projections 41a each also
comprise holes 41c that as described above can be engaged with pin
34b when first end 41 is disposed vertically inside box 34a.
[0084] FIG. 10 is a simplified side view of a trap machine 1
according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject
matter, showing lever 40 engaged to tension bolt 50 in a first
position. In this view, housing lower body 11 is shown as
transparent to allow its interior to be shown. Flange 13a and holes
therein provides a locus for attaching top panel 12 to rear panel
13 using fasteners such as screws or bolts (not shown). Curved
holes 39 in opposed sides of housing lower body 11 engage pins of
the elevation adjusting mechanism 35 to adjust the tilt or angle of
elevation of the trap machine 1 as discussed with regard to FIG. 1.
First end 50a of bolt 50 is configured to engage the inner volume
of a coil spring (not shown). Threaded region 50b passes through
bushing 53. In this first position, first end 41 of lever 40 is
engaged to bolt 50 proximate to the first end 50a in a generally
horizontal orientation. Lever 40 engages bar 19 between first end
41 and bend 40a proximate to first end 41. In this embodiment
shown, bend 40a is configured at a greater angle than that depicted
in previous Figures. In any embodiments, the bend 40a orients the
second end 42 of lever 40 at a generally upward angle relative to
the trap machine 1 when the lever 40 is in the first position. In
the first position, tension force between the spring and the
threaded bolt 50 is not relieved and a nut (not shown) would be
held tightly against bushing 53, making it difficult to adjust
tension.
[0085] FIG. 11 is a close up interior view of the trap machine 1
showing lever 40 just prior to its engagement to tension bolt 50 in
the first position, according to an exemplary embodiment of the
disclosed subject matter. In this view, first end 50a of bolt 50 is
disposed inside of coil tensioning spring 53. A rod 54 is disposed
in a through-hole passing through bolt 50 proximate to the first
end 50a such that two ends 54a are disposed on opposing sides of
bolt 50. First end 41 of lever 40 is shown oriented generally
horizontally such that projections 41a flank bolt 50. Hooks 41b on
each projection 41a are disposed to engage ends 54a of rod 54.
Pulling the end 41 toward the rear of the trap machine 1 (rightward
in this view) engages the hooks 41b to ends 54a such that they wrap
partially around ends 54a.
[0086] FIG. 12 is a simplified side view of a trap machine 1
according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject
matter, showing lever 40 engaged to tension bolt 50 in a first
position. In this view, housing lower body 11 is shown as
transparent to allow its interior to be shown. In this second
position, lever 40 engages bar 19 between first end 41 and bend 40a
proximate to first end 41, and second end 42 is moved downward to
an approximately horizontal orientation relative to the trap
machine 1. The bend 40a causes the first end 41 to pivot rearward
(to the right in this view) and cause first end 41 of lever 40
engaged to bolt 50 proximate to the first end 50a to be in a
generally vertical orientation when second end 42 is moved
downward.
[0087] FIG. 13 is a close up interior view of the trap machine 1
showing lever 40 after its engagement to tension bolt 50 and moved
to a second position, according to an exemplary embodiment of the
disclosed subject matter. One can see that coil spring 53 is
expanded relative to that shown in FIG. 11.
[0088] In the second position, tension force between the spring and
the threaded region 50b of bolt 50 is relieved and is transferred
to the lever 40. A nut (not shown) when engaged to threaded region
50b of bolt 50 would not be held tightly against bushing 53 and
could be easily screwed along threaded region 50b in either
direction.
[0089] Moving the nut distally away from end 50a of bolt 50 while
the lever 40 is in the second position allows sufficient distance
so that when lever 40 is returned to its first position and first
end 41 is disengaged from bolt 40, the spring 54 can be fully
relaxed and there is no tension between spring 54 and bolt 50.
[0090] In embodiments, the trap machine 1 is configured so that
when the spring is not under tension, the throwing arm is
configured to be rotated and optionally engaged to a pin 18
attached to the housing so that the throwing arm 20 is disposed and
held within the housing 10. The absence of tension in the spring 54
allows the throwing arm to be rotated into the slot 14 of housing
10 such that it is protected during transport and storage. Because
there is no tension in the spring 54, accidental rotational
movement of the throwing arm is minimized. These factors provide
improved safety and durability of the disclosed trap machine over
conventional trap machines. In embodiments, the pin 18 is attached
to the top panel 12 of the housing and passes through a hole in the
top panel 12 and into a hole in the distal end 20a of the arm 20.
It can be spring-loaded to be held in a first position outside slot
14 so that throwing arm 20 can rotate freely. In a second position,
it extends into the slot 14 and holds the throwing arm 20 inside
housing 10.
[0091] When a user wants to operate the trap machine 1, the user
can release the pin 18 engaging the throwing arm 20 allowing it to
be rotated out of the housing 10. The user can reengage the lever
40 to the bolt 50 in the first lever position, and move the lever
to its second position, thereby causing the bolt 50 to be moved
rearward, causing the spring 54 to expand and reinstate tension in
the tensioning assembly. A nut engaged to threaded region 50b can
be moved proximally toward end 50a of bolt 50. In embodiments, the
threaded bolt 50 comprises one or more positions or set points on
the threaded region 50b configured that when the nut is positioned
at the one or more positions, the spring can be brought under
tension and the tension is proportional to a desired distance for
the throwing arm to throw the clay target. Preferably, the nut can
be moved to a desired set point while the lever 40 is engaged to
the bolt 50 in its second position so that the nut can be moved
easily by hand turning. Returning the lever 40 to its first
position causes the bolt 50 to move toward the interior of lower
body 11 and the nut engaged thereto is moved to engage bushing 53
on the rear panel 13. The spring 54 is brought to its desired
tension for throwing a clay target.
[0092] In embodiments, the threaded bolt 50 is machined so that it
comprises a flat side that does not comprise threads. Indicia on
the flat side can provide markings aligned with one or more set
points on the threaded region 50b proportional to a desired throw
distance such as 50 yards, 60 yards and/or 70 yards. Alternatively
or additively, the pitch of the screw threads can be changed in one
or more portion of the threaded region 50b such that an altered
rotation of a nut on the threaded region 50b corresponds to the one
or more set points proportional to a desired throw distance.
[0093] Having described embodiments of the invention with reference
to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the
invention is not limited to those precise embodiments, and that
various changes and modifications may be effected therein by one
skilled in the art without departing from the scope or spirit of
the invention as defined in the appended claims.
* * * * *