Patent Grant
11821712
This disclosure is generally related to stabilizers for a projectile (e.g., self-propelled projectiles, crossbow bolts, spears, javelins, jarts, blowgun darts, throwing darts, arrows, toy rockets, toy projectiles etc.), and more particularly, to a stabilizer for the flight of a projectile.
Projectiles typically are fletched on the rear of a projectile shaft to provide flight stability. Usually, three or four fletches are mounted in a circumferentially spaced relationship. The practice of using multiple pieces or individual fletches has remained virtually unchanged over time, wherein each fletch or vane must be glued in place separately, either by hand, or with the aid of a tool or fletching jig. This process is time consuming and introduces inconsistencies in spacing and angles. Minute inconsistencies in the form of unevenly spaced fletching, varying distances from the end of the projectile shaft, and angular variations have a profound effect on the flight of a projectile.
Furthermore, polluting and toxic chemicals are often required to clean the projectile shaft prior to gluing. Moreover, conventionally fletched projectiles are easily damaged in the field or while in storage. When damaged, conventional fletching is normally not considered field replaceable and can be difficult to repair.
Finally, prior art stabilizing methods require the fletching to pass over and/or through the projectile rest causing possible interference with the rest, thus imposing certain design limitations. Projectile rests may interfere with the flight of a projectile through inadvertent contact therewith, thereby adversely affecting flight performance, as well as damaging the fletching through such contact. While fall-away or offset rests must often be used to reduce the incidence of contact between the projectile rest and the fletching of a projectile, such rests can be expensive and do not resolve other above-mentioned problems associated with fletching.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,951,419 to Cameneti addresses the above mentioned fletching inconsistency issue by teaching a single-piece fletching mounted on the rear portion of the shaft of the projectile, wherein the fletching comprises a flared cone projecting rearward and outward, giving the fletching a funnel-shaped appearance. Deficiencies of this solution, however, include a significantly increased drag problem, excessive length, and failure to resolve the interference problem.
“Fletching” is a generic term used to describe the fins of a projectile that guide and stabilize the projectile during flight. These fins, when made from natural feathers, are commonly referred to collectively as “fletching”, comprising individual “fletches.” When made from plastic or other man-made materials, these fins are called “vanes.” In the present application, the terms “fletching,” “feathers,” “vanes,” and “fins” are employed throughout when describing fins of any type and are used interchangeably.
“Nock” is a generic term used to describe the portion of the projectile that secures the projectile in place before launch, typically by surrounding the bowstring with a notched area.
“Stop” is a term that may be used herein for a device for securing a stabilizer consistent with the present invention onto a projectile or a component thereof.
“Projectile rest” is typically the term for a small protrusion or device on the bow at the point where the projectile will rest during the draw, to hold the projectile away from and reduce contact with the riser (the thick, non-bending center portion of the bow).
“Cap” is a term that may be used herein as part of the annular arrow fletch device, which limits the annular arrow fletches depth onto the arrow shaft. This part of the device allows the annular arrow fletch only to be recessed onto an arrow shaft to a predetermined depth.
A “fall-away rest” is an arrow rest that holds the arrow with an element that “falls away,” drops, or otherwise travels away from the arrow when the string is released and the arrow is launched, thereby reducing or eliminating contact between the arrow rest and portions of the arrow itself, e.g., shaft or fletching.
“Mechanical Release” is a devise used by archers to release the bowstring. There are numerous varieties of mechanical releases. Generally the mechanical release is held in the archer's hand and he/she would attach the mechanical release to the bowstring, the arrow is loaded onto the string and the arrow rest. The archer would then pull the bowstring rearward and the mechanical release has a trigger to release the bowstring launching the arrow.
“Lighted nocks” are a light emitting arrow nock, which contain a battery, L.E.D. light emitting diode, and an arrow nock. The lighted nock may or may not have a switch. The lighted nock's intended use is to emit light from the nock after the arrow is shot from the bow.
The present disclosure provides a stabilizer, a projectile, and related archery tools incorporating a novel aerodynamic design for projectiles having a variety of general or specialized uses. This improvement is achieved by elimination of conventional fixed tail feathers and the use of a stabilizer consistent with the present invention.
The improved stabilizer of the present invention may be used for a projectile or other projectile and resolves prior art issues related to clearances, fletching inconsistency, environmental sensitivity, field replaceability, and excessive drag. A stabilizer consistent with the present invention comprises a unit adapted to slide along the shaft of a projectile, which is mounted on the leading end of the projectile until the projectile is propelled from the bow, at which time the stabilizer travels to the trailing end of the projectile and is secured at a predetermined location along the shaft, as the projectile travels beyond the rest and bow. A stop adapted to prevent further rearward travel of the stabilizer during the flight of the projectile may be integral to the shaft or nock, or alternatively may be a separate unit adapted to mate with the shaft or nock of a projectile.
The present invention provides a field replaceable sliding stabilizer that eliminates the inconsistencies and costs associated with traditional multi-piece glue on fletching systems. Further, a projectile comprising a stabilizer consistent with the present invention eliminates interference at the projectile rest caused by conventional fletching and a conventional bow.
A stabilizer consistent with the present invention may easily be mass-produced and is capable of providing high accuracy devices with highly repetitive results in use. Such a stabilizer may comprise a plurality of projections or “fingers” that aid in the operation of the stabilizer by creating a friction or interference fit between the projectile shaft and the stabilizer during slideable engagement therebetween. A stabilizer consistent with the present invention may be particularly shaped or otherwise adapted to provide additional aerodynamic features (e.g., impact force on the target or other such flight characteristics). Further, two or more stabilizers may be disposed along the shaft of a projectile (e.g., at the forward tip to prevent instability caused by the use of exotic or poorly balanced projectiles).
Further, the present invention provides a projectile having improved aerodynamic characteristics, resulting in increased flight stability, speed, and accuracy. A projectile consistent with the present invention requires no feathers or traditional fletching, instead utilizing a sliding aerodynamic stabilizer that is slid or mounted over the front or rear of the projectile shaft, and the projectile travels through the stabilizer until it is positioned on the projectile at a provided stop, after which the stabilizer flies the projectile in a conventional manner. Since a projectile consistent with the present invention may comprise a short cross section, flight stability is less impacted by cross wind drift and wobble. Further, since the projectile requires no fixed fletching attached thereto, the projectile may have a higher acceleration rate due to a reduced mass that has to be initially accelerated by the bow.
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Any one of the stabilizers described herein may include a plurality of fins oriented with respect to an associated central axis such that the stabilizer encourages projectile rotation about the central axis when the projectile is projected. Any given fin may be, for example, as illustrated in the accompanying figures. Any given fin may have a height extending radially from a projectile shaft receptacle. The height of any given fin may vary with respect a length. Any given fin may extend at an angle with respect to a central axis of the projectile shaft receptacle. The angle of any given fin may vary with respect a length (e.g., may define a linear line, may define a sweeping curve, may define a parabola, etc.).
In any event, a breakaway coefficient of friction, between an inner surface of a projectile shaft receptacle and an outer surface of a projectile shaft, may be above a value such that, for example, a surface area of the inner surface of the projectile shaft receptacle in combination with a pressure between the inner surface of the projectile shaft receptacle and the outer surface of the projectile shaft, and the value of the breakaway coefficient of friction between the inner surface of the projectile shaft receptacle and the outer surface of the projectile shaft, causes the projectile shaft to rotate about a central axis (e.g., right-hand rotation with respect to a projectile launch location, or left-hand rotation with respect to a projectile launch location) when the projectile is projected (i.e., the breakaway coefficient of friction, the surface area, and the pressure result in a rotational force above a rotational movement threshold). In other words, a rotational force exerted by a stabilizer on an associated projectile may be a function of a surface area of an inner surface of the projectile shaft receptacle in combination with a value of a breakaway coefficient of friction, and a pressure, between the inner surface of the projectile shaft receptacle and the outer surface of the associated projectile shaft. The pressure between the inner surface of the projectile shaft receptacle and the outer surface of the associated projectile shaft may be, for example, inversely proportional to an elasticity of a stabilizer material. Additionally, a coefficient of friction and/or an elasticity of a stabilizer material and/or a projectile shaft material may be, for example, a function of temperature.
In combination with above, the breakaway coefficient of friction, the surface area, and the pressure, between the inner surface of the projectile shaft receptacle and the outer surface of the associated projectile shaft may be below a linear movement threshold. The linear movement threshold may be representative of, for example, a breakaway force associated with a peak rotational force that a given stabilizer may exert on an associated projectile during flight of the projectile.
In any event, a stabilizer buyer/user may purchase a desired stabilizer via, for example, an ecommerce website wherein the buyer simply enters an outside diameter of an associated projectile, via a user interface, and the user interface may present a list of available/recommended stabilizers. Alternatively, or additionally, an initial user interface may include a list of projectile manufactures, etc., and a user selects an associated projectile from the list. The user interface then presents at least one stabilizer, or a list of available stabilizers, along with associated stabilizer specifications and/or prices.
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For example, the system 1800a may acquire projectile and/or stabilizer data from, for example, a user of a customer device 1805a,b (e.g., a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a personal digital assistant, a smart phone, a digital camera, smart watch, smart glasses, wearable electronics, laptop, etc.). Alternatively, or additionally, while not shown in
As described in detail herein, the system 1800a may automatically generate at least one stabilizer (e.g., a 3D printed stabilizer, an injection molded stabilizer, etc.), stabilizer related information (e.g., printed, electronic, etc.), projectile related information (e.g., printed, electronic, etc.), and a related shipping label based upon, for example, projectile information and/or stabilizer information, etc.
For clarity, only one customer device 1805a is depicted in
As described in detail herein, the module 1888a may facilitate interaction between an associated customer device 1805a,b and a remote device 1895a,d. For example, the processor 1886a, further executing the module 1888a, may facilitate communications between a remote device 1895a,d and a customer device 1805a,b via a customer device network interface 1889a, a customer device communication link 1871a, a network 1870a, a remote device communication link 1872a, and a remote device network interface 1892a.
A customer device 1805a,b may include a user interface 1825a which may be any type of electronic display device, such as touch screen display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, a plasma display, a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, or any other type of known or suitable electronic display along with a user input device. A user interface 1825a may exhibit a user interface (e.g., any user interface 1700a-d) which depicts a user interface for configuring a client device 1805a,b to communicate with a remote device 1895a,d.
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The network interface 1889a may be configured to facilitate communications between a customer device 1805a,b and a remote device 1895a,d via any wireless communication network 1870a, including for example a wireless LAN, MAN or WAN, WiFi, the Internet, or any combination thereof. Moreover, a customer device 1805a,b may be communicatively connected to a remote device 1895a,d via any suitable communication system, such as via any publicly available or privately owned communication network, including those that use wireless communication structures, such as wireless communication networks, including for example, wireless LANs and WANs, satellite and cellular telephone communication systems, etc. A customer device 1805a,b may cause, for example, projectile and/or stabilizer related data to be transmitted to, and stored in, for example, a remote device 1895a,d, memory 1897a,d, and/or a remote projectile and fletch related database 1893a.
A remote device 1895a,d may include a user interface 1894a, a memory 1897a,d, and a processor 1896a for storing and executing, respectively, a module 1898a. The module 1898a, stored in the memory 1897a,d as a set of computer-readable instructions, may facilitate applications related to automatically generating at least one stabilizer, stabilizer related information, and/or a stabilizer shipping label. The module 1898a may also facilitate communications between the remote device 1895a,d and a customer device 1805a,b via a network interface 1892a, and the network 1870a, and other functions and instructions.
A remote device 1895a,d may be communicatively coupled to a projectile and fletch related database 1893a. While the projectile and fletch related database 1893a is shown in
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A method of automatically generating at least one stabilizer, stabilizer related information, and a stabilizer shipping label 1800c,e may be implemented by a first processor (e.g., processor 1886a of customer device 1805a of
The processor 1886a may execute the stabilizer quantity receiving module 1815b to cause the processor 1886a to, for example, receive a stabilizer quantity via, for example, user interface 1700a (block 1815c). The processor 1886a may execute the stabilizer test pack quantity receiving module 1820b to cause the processor 1886a to, for example, receive a stabilizer test pack quantity via, for example, user interface 1700c (block 1820c). The processor 1886a may execute the type of stabilizer receiving module 1825b to cause the processor 1886a to, for example, receive a type of stabilizer via, for example, user interface 1700a (block 1825c). The processor 1886a may execute the stabilizer color receiving module 1830b to cause the processor 1886a to, for example, receive a stabilizer color via, for example, user interface 1700a,c (block 1830c).
The processor 1886a may execute the stabilizer degree of offset receiving module 1835b to cause the processor 1886a to, for example, receive a stabilizer degree of offset via, for example, user interface 1700a (block 1835c). The processor 1886a may execute the stabilizer offset orientation receiving module 1840b to cause the processor 1886a to, for example, receive a stabilizer offset orientation via, for example, user interface 1700a,c (block 1840c). The processor 1886a may execute the projectile shaft outside diameter receiving module 1845b to cause the processor 1886a to, for example, receive a projectile shaft outside diameter via, for example, user interface 1700a,c (block 1845c).
The processor 1886a may execute the projectile identification receiving module 1850b to cause the processor 1886a to, for example, receive a projectile identification via, for example, user interface 1700a,c (block 1850c). The processor 1886a may execute the add to cart receiving module 1855b to cause the processor 1886a to, for example, receive an add to cart input via, for example, user interface 1700a,c,d (block 1855c). The processor 1886a may execute the projectile/stabilizer data transmission module 1860b to cause the processor 1886a to, for example, transmit projectile/stabilizer data from, for example, a customer device 1805a,b to a remote device 1895a,d (block 1860c). The processor 1886a may execute the stabilizer recommendation determination data receiving module 1865b to cause the processor 1886a to, for example, receive stabilizer recommendation determination data from, for example, a remote device 1895a,d (block 1865c).
The processor 1896a may execute the projectile/stabilizer data receiving module 1810d to cause the processor 1896a to, for example, receive projectile/stabilizer data from a customer device 1805a,b (block 1810e). The processor 1896a may execute the stabilizer recommendation determination module 1815d to cause the processor 1896a to, for example, determine a stabilizer recommendation based on, for example, any one of a stabilizer quantity 1706a, a stabilizer test pack quantity 1718c, a type of stabilizer 1707a, a stabilizer color 1708a/1719c, a degree offset 1709a, an offset orientation 1710a/1720c, a projectile shaft outside diameter 1711a/1721c, a projectile manufacturer 1712a/1722c, a stabilizer material, an associated operating temperature (or temperature range), any subcombination thereof, or combination thereof (block 1815e).
The processor 1896a may execute the stabilizer recommendation data transmission module 1820d to cause the processor 1896a to, for example, transmit projectile/stabilizer data from, for example, a customer device 1805a,b to a client device 1805a,b (block 1820e). The processor 1896a may execute the stabilizer generation module 1825d to cause the processor 1896a to, for example, control the 3D printer 1830a to print at least one stabilizer 115a,b/215/300a-d-1600a-d (block 1825e). The processor 1896a may execute the stabilizer shipping label generation module 1830d to cause the processor 1896a to, for example, control the 2D printer 1826a to print projectile related information, stabilizer related information, and/or a shipping label (block 1830e).
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A stabilizer positioned along the shaft of the projectile in flight, shortly after the projectile is propelled, as the projectile travels forward through the stabilizer and the stabilizer travels toward the trailing end of the projectile. A projectile may slide forward through the stabilizer until contact is made with the stop, with which the stabilizer engages, causing the stabilizer to remain captive at the trailing end of the projectile for the duration of the flight, thereby providing controlled stabilization, spin, and/or other flight characteristics (e.g., wobble or longitudinal compression of the projectile).
When the stabilizer is positioned at the leading end of the projectile prior to flight, the projectile may be launched in a conventional manner, except for the conventional nock position on the bowstring. In contrast, with conventional projectiles, the nock must be positioned in a particular orientation or relationship to the fletching and string. A projectile equipped with a stabilizer consistent with the present invention needs no particular orientation or clocking, since there is no risk of the stabilizer interfering with the projectile rest or any other part of the bow.
The elimination of conventional fletching tail feathers from the body of projectiles, as achieved by the present invention, allows for easy storage of projectiles without causing damage to stabilizing surfaces. Typical fletched projectiles are delicate and easily become damaged when stored or when used in the field. A stabilizer consistent with the present invention may simply be removed from the projectile and the bare projectile shaft stored without the possibility of fletching damage. Further, a damaged fletching unit may be replaced in the field in seconds, without any loss of accuracy or repeatability. Additionally, since the stabilizer is mechanically fixed to the projectile during flight and does not require gluing, the use of toxic glues and other chemicals can be reduced by way of the present invention.
Various changes may be made in the foregoing invention without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. For example, it is noted that the stop may be located so as to captivate the stabilizer at the trailing end of the projectile shaft, or alternatively, at another location along the shaft selected to optimize projectile flight for a given application, e.g., for balance, stability, or shootability of the projectile. When the stabilizer is disposed as closely as possible to the trailing end of the projectile, the center of the stabilizing force can be situated rearward beyond that of convention fletching and closer to the trailing end of the projectile shaft than possible with conventional fletching. Since the stabilizing force or equivalent center of pressure caused by the stabilizer of the present invention may be positioned rearward beyond that of conventional vanes, the force required to produce an equivalent stabilization force decreases, and thus, the total surface area required to produce an equivalent force is reduced. The projectile speed is increased over conventionally fletched projectiles due to less frictional drag as a result of the reduced surface area required for stabilization. Further, the decrease in the cross sectional area of the stabilizing surface, as compared to conventional vanes, results in less cross wind drift and improved accuracy when shooting in cross winds.
With conventional bow and/or projectile rest designs, it is desirable for the stabilizer to be positioned over the leading end of the projectile shaft and positioned at a close distance from the leading end of the projectile prior to launch, so as not to obstruct the tip of projectile. It is, however, contemplated that the stabilizer may, alternatively, be fixed along the shaft at a given location, instead of being slidably disposed along the shaft. Such fixation may either be permanent (e.g., gluing) or temporary (e.g., engagement with a stop, as described hereinabove). An exemplary such application would be the use of the stabilizer consistent with the invention with a bow having offset projectile guides, projectile rests, or fall-away rests, wherein the stabilizer can begin flight disposed at the trailing end of a projectile. Thus, the stabilizer of the present invention solves the interference issue for all bows in use, even specialized bows and projectile rests already adapted to minimize interference with fletching, and users of such specialized bows and projectile rests may enjoy the same benefits of the present invention as users of conventional bow rests. More than one stabilizer may be used for certain applications (e.g., a fixed stabilizer at one location along a shaft and a sliding stabilizer elsewhere along the shaft).
It should be understood that a stop consistent with the separate component from the nock and/or shaft, or alternatively, may be integrated into either the nock, the shaft, or both. Since the trailing ends of many conventional projectile shafts are already adapted to receive a nock therein (e.g., via a threaded recess), it is contemplated that a threaded stop could be installed in its place. Thus, if the stop is constructed to have a similar adapter for receiving a nock therein (e.g., a threaded recess), a conventional nook could be removed from a projectile shaft and replaced by a stop, and then the nock could easily be installed directly into the stop. Of course, a stop consistent with the present invention could alternatively comprise a nock or similar device formed therein, and a nock consistent with the present invention could alternatively comprise a stop device. It should further be recognized that a stop mechanism could be integrated into a projectile shaft and may merely comprise a single taper, O-ring, or similar feature located along the shaft and appropriately sized to captivate the stabilizer. A stop mechanism may comprise a projectile having a shaft with a tapered portion formed such that the shaft has an increasingly larger diameter toward its trailing end, to captivate the stabilizer.
As those skilled in the art will recognize, while the exemplary stabilizer 200 illustrated and described hereinabove comprises a pair of nested annular structures, a stabilizer consistent with the present invention may comprise a variety of other shapes, sizes and configurations. For example, the circumferentially extending wing might comprise a square, rectangular, ovular, or other cross section instead of a circular cross-section. Alternatively, instead of a circumferentially extending wing, a plurality of arcuate or straight wing sections not connected to one another might serve as wings, wherein each section is held onto a central annular structure by means of one or more fins or other support members.
The central annular structure of the stabilizer and the shaft receptacle formed therein could alternatively comprise other configurations for mating with the shaft of a projectile, such as a plurality of arcuate sections or inward projections on the stabilizer appropriately sized for mating with the shaft. The mating of stabilizer and shaft could also be accomplished through a number of alternative means, a groove or track configuration, wherein a groove or ridge 480 is formed in or on the shaft of the projectile along its length, and an element (e.g., a groove, notch or projection) adapted to mate with and slide within or along the groove or ridge projects from or is formed in the stabilizer.
While three fins generally provide maximum stability without adding too much weight to the stabilizer and projectile, it should be recognized that the fins of the stabilizer can vary in number, shape, size, angular disposal, and other aspects, and certain embodiments of the stabilizer might not even include any fins. The angle(s) at which the fins are mounted may also vary, e.g., various embodiments may include fins angularly fixed relative to the longitudinal axis of the projectile to provide rotational spin force to the projectile; fins fixed parallel to the longitudinal axis of the projectile to prevent the spin of the projectile, e.g., to improve penetration of the projectile into the target; or alternatively, fins fixed parallel to the longitudinal axis of the projectile with an expanding taper design terminating at the trailing edge of the fin to produce rotational spin. Thus, a user can change the flight characteristics from a spinning projectile, which is similar to a bullet shot from a rifled barrel, to a non-spinning projectile, for better target penetration when using certain tips. It is further noted that the number, size and shape of stabilizing fins attached to the stabilizer may vary without interference concerns at the projectile rest or other portions of the bow. Cross-sections of the fins at certain locations thereon may have varying shapes (e.g., airfoil-shaped or tapering cross-sections, to effect various modifications in flight). The fins may be formed with one or more apertures therein, to reduce the weight of the stabilizer and/or for reasons of aerodynamics (e.g., drift due to side wind, flight due to right rotation, flight path due to left rotation, etc.).
The projections or “fingers” of the stabilizer that create a friction or interference fit between the projectile shaft and the stabilizer during slideable engagement therebetween could alternatively comprise other configurations (e.g., a taper, or a single projection in the form of a flexible O-ring). Such projections, tapers, fingers, O-rings, or similar self-adjustment or self-centering features may further be adapted to permit a single stabilizer to be used with a variety of projectiles having shafts of varying dimensions, tolerances, or other characteristics (e.g., by construction using a flexible material), such that the projections expand or contract to create a friction or interference fit with projectile shafts having varying diameters, or even shafts having cross-sections other than circular.
Materials for constructing a stabilizer and/or stop consistent with the present invention may include one or more metals, e.g., aluminum, or plastics such as nylon, polyethylene, or polypropylene. Such a stabilizer and/or stop may be manufactured as a one-piece unit or other multi-piece designs, and may be flexible, rigid, semi-rigid, or comprise components of differing materials or having differing rigidity. The stabilizer and/or stop may be made in a variety of varying lengths, colors, and configurations, and may be manufactured by a number of techniques, e.g., as injection molding. The stabilizer and/or stop may comprise luminescent, bioluminescent, electro-luminescent, or photo-luminescent materials for ease of visibility and retrieval, particularly in dark or dull-colored environments.
Those skilled in the art will recognize that a stabilizer consistent with the present invention has utility not only in the field of archery, but may also have utility in improving the flight of other types of projectiles, e.g., a javelin or an atlatl (a device that is used to throw with considerable mechanical advantage a lightweight spear called a dart). It is further noted that a projectile used in conjunction with a stabilizer consistent with the present invention does not necessarily have to be one adapted for air travel, but instead could be a projectile for travel in water (e.g., for bowfishing or spearfishing), or another liquid or gaseous media.
It is further contemplated that various toolsets or kits may be provided, wherein the sets of tools comprise one or more of the following: one or more stabilizers, one or more stops, one or more nocks, one or more projectile shafts, and one or more projectiles. For example, a toolset might comprise a projectile (or just a shaft) and a corresponding sliding stabilizer adapted for travel along the projectile and/or shaft; or a stabilizer and a corresponding stop; or a projectile (or just a shaft) and a stop adapted for engagement with the shaft. Further, a set of stabilizers having differing dimensions from one another may be provided (differing in, e.g., diameter of the circumferentially extending wing, angular configuration of the fins, diameter of the central shaft receptacle, length of the projections formed in the central shaft receptacle), which may have utility, e.g., when using projectile shafts having differing diameters. Further, a set of stabilizers could comprise a plurality of differently colored stabilizers for ease of individual identification.
An annular arrow fletch may be set on its base slightly tilted toward the viewer to allow for an offset overview of the invention. This drawing allows for an overview of two of the three fins, the micro-grooves and the metal contact on or in the central elongated cylindrical cylinder cap.
An annular arrow fletch may be set on its base tilted toward the right at a 45-degree angle allowing the viewer an offset overview of the invention. This drawing allows for an overview of two of the three fins, the micro-grooves depicted but partially obstructed by the annular wing and the metal contact placement on or in the central elongated cylindrical cylinder cap. The recess at the top of center elongated cylindrical cylinder cap is the placement of the arrow nock. The central elongated cylindrical cylinder cap partially encloses the top of the center elongated cylindrical cylinder to prevent the arrow shaft from completely passing through the central center elongated cylindrical cylinder structure.
A conventional arrow comprises a tip, a shaft, and a prior art stabilization system comprising a plurality of glued fins as feathers, veins and or fletching's. The fins are fixed to the shaft and are easily damaged or lost through contact with other surfaces, e.g., with the bow used to launch the arrow or with butt material (backing, bales, man made targets or dirt designed to stop and hold arrows) of a paper target, or with a game animal when hunting. The aft end of the arrow may comprise a recess (not shown) formed therein for engagement (e.g., via a interference fit) with an arrow nock that secures the arrow in place on a bowstring before launch, e.g., by disposing an arrow nocked to a bowstring (not shown) within a notched area of the arrow nock.
An exemplary annular arrow fletch in one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The annular arrow fletch is field replaceable, reduces assembly labor cost, and significantly improves the stability of arrows. In the embodiment shown, the annular arrow fletch comprises an annular wing, pluralities of fins, a central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure recess formed within a central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure cap, the central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure which is smooth walled formed within the aperture of the annular wing. In addition to providing stability, the annular wing may further be adapted to add rigidity to and/or to direct air to the fins. The fins have a multiple functions; the fins have micro-grooves on one side serving both as aerodynamic elements and structural elements bridging the annular wing and the central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure. The exemplary annular arrow fletch shown is designed to replace conventional fletching, i.e., to be used with an arrow having no other form of fletching. The central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure of the annular arrow fletch is sized to have a diameter larger than that of the shaft of an arrow, so that the arrow shaft can be slid therein. The smooth interior walls of the central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure of the invention allow for a semi interference fit with the arrow shaft. The interference fit with the arrow shaft is not required for the annular arrow fletch to function. Once the aft end of the arrow shaft is inserted into the central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure of the annular arrow fletch the shaft will recess to a predetermined depth and engage, making contact with the underside of the elongated cylindrical cylinder structure cap. The opening in the aft end of the arrow shaft will align with the recess opening in the central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure cap and the arrow nock or lighted arrow nock can be inserted into the central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure cap recess. Arrow nocks or lighted arrow nocks are designed to have an interference fit with the inside of an arrow shaft. The interference fit will hold the annular arrow fletch in position preventing any movement but allowing the airfoil effects to be imparted onto the arrow in flight. With reference to central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure cap recess, is sized to have a smaller diameter than that of the central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure and provides a predetermined depth engagement to the annular arrow fletch with the arrow shaft. Alternatively, in a scenario in which it is desirable for the arrow to be able to pass through the target, the interference fit of the arrow nock and the interior of the arrow shaft allows for the means for releasing the annular arrow fletch such that the arrow shaft can pass through the target and the annular arrow fletch and arrow nock will drop to the ground after the arrow shaft completes its travel through the central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure of the annular arrow fletch.
The annular arrow fletch is positioned around the arrow shaft at the aft end of the arrow shaft, the arrow may be launched in a conventional manner, the conventional arrow nock positioned on the bowstring. The arrow is then drawn back prior to launch, and the annular arrow fletch remains affixed at a predetermined depth on the aft end of the arrow shaft. The archer releases the bowstring with either a mechanical release or with their fingers and the arrow is then launched. As the arrow begins to leave the bow the forward projection of the annular arrow fletch begins to direct wind and/or air resistance. As the arrow travels forward through the arrow drop away rest, for the duration of the flight, thereby providing controlled stabilization, spin, and/or other flight characteristics, e.g., reduced wobble or oscillation of the arrow. The annular arrow fletch is made of more rigid materials then traditional feathers, vane or fletching materials and imparts corrective forces onto the arrow shaft as soon as the arrow nock is leaves the string. Because of the use of more rigid materials the annular arrow fletch can only be shot from properly tuned bows with fall away rests with appropriated clearance.
In contrast, with conventional arrows, the arrow nock must be positioned in a particular orientation or relationship to the fletching, arrow rest and string. An arrow equipped with an annular arrow fletch consistent with the present invention needs no particular orientation or clocking, since there is no risk of the annular arrow fletch annular wing interfering with a fall away arrow rest or any other part of the bow when sufficient clearance has been confirmed prior to shooting an arrow with an annular arrow fletch installed.
The elimination of conventional fletching, tail feathers from the body of arrow shaft, as achieved by the present invention, allows for easy storage of arrows without causing damage to stabilizing surfaces. Typical fletched arrows are delicate and easily become damaged when stored or when used in the field. An annular arrow fletch consistent with the present invention may simply be removed from the arrow shaft and the bare arrow shaft stored without the possibility of fletching damage. Further, a damaged fletching unit may be replaced in the field in seconds, without any loss of accuracy or repeatability. Additionally, since the annular arrow fletch is arrow nock fixed to the arrow during flight and does not require arrow nock pins, the use of toxic glues and other chemicals can be reduced by way of the present invention.
Various changes may be made in the foregoing invention without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. For example, fin tapper or angle to optimize arrow flight for a given application, e.g., for balance, stability, or shoot-ability of the arrow. When the annular arrow fletch is disposed as closely as possible to the trailing end of the arrow shaft, the center of the stabilizing force can be situated rearward beyond that of convention fletching and closer to the aft end of the arrow shaft than possible with conventional fletching. Since the stabilizing force or equivalent center of pressure caused by the annular arrow fletch of the present invention may be positioned rearward beyond that of conventional vanes, the force required to produce an equivalent stabilization force decreases, and thus, the total surface area required to produce an equivalent force is reduced. The arrow speed is increased over conventionally fletched arrows due to less frictional drag as a result of the reduced surface area required for stabilization. Further, the decrease in the cross sectional area of the stabilizing surface, the annular wing as compared to conventional vanes, results in less cross wind drift and improved accuracy when shooting in cross winds.
With conventional bow and/or arrow drop away rest designs, it is desirable for the annular arrow fletch to be positioned at the aft end of the arrow shaft and positioned at the end of the arrow prior to launch, so as not to be obstructed by the drop away rest in flight as the arrow passes over the arrow rest. Thus, the annular arrow fletch of the present invention solves the interference issue for all bows in use, even specialized bows and arrow rests already adapted to minimize interference with conventional fletching, and users of such specialized bows and drop away arrow rests may enjoy the same benefits of the present invention as users of conventional bow with drop away rests.
As those skilled in the art will recognize, while the exemplary annular arrow fletch illustrated and described herein above comprises a pair of nested annular structures, an annular arrow fletch consistent with the present invention may comprise a variety of other shapes, sizes and configurations. For example, the annular wing might comprise a square, rectangular, ovular, or other cross section instead of a circular cross-section. Alternatively, instead of an annular wing, a plurality of arcuate or straight wing sections not connected to one another might serve as wings, wherein each section is held onto a central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure by means of one or more fins or other support members.
The central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure of the annular arrow fletch and the cylindrical smooth walls formed therein could alternatively comprise other configurations for forming the interference fit with the shaft of an arrow, such as; a plurality of arcuate sections or inward projections on the central elongated cylindrical cylinder appropriately sized for mating with the shaft. The annular arrow fletch central elongated cylindrical cylinder annular structure smooth wall interference fit and the arrow shaft could also be accomplished through a number of alternative means, such as; a groove or track configuration, wherein a groove or ridge is formed in or on the shaft of the arrow along its length, and an element (e.g., a groove, notch or projection) adapted to mate with and slide within or along the groove or ridge projects from or is formed in the annular arrow fletch.
While three fins generally provide maximum stability without adding too much weight to the annular arrow fletch and arrow, it should be recognized that the fins of the annular arrow fletch can vary in number, shape, size, angular disposal, and other aspects, and certain embodiments of the annular arrow fletch might not even include any fins. The angle(s) at which the fins are mounted may also vary, e.g., various embodiments may include fins angularly fixed relative to the longitudinal axis of the arrow to provide rotational spin force to the arrow; fins fixed parallel to the longitudinal axis of the arrow to prevent the spin of the arrow, e.g., to improve penetration of the arrow into the target; or alternatively, fins fixed parallel to the longitudinal axis of the arrow with an expanding taper design terminating at the trailing edge of the fin to produce rotational spin. Thus, a user can change the flight characteristics from a spinning arrow, which is similar to a bullet shot from a rifled barrel, to a non-spinning arrow, for better target penetration when using certain tips. It is further noted that the number, size and shape of stabilizing fins attached to the annular arrow fletch may vary without interference concerns at the drop away arrow rest or other portions of the bow. Cross-sections of the fins at certain locations thereon may have varying shapes, e.g., airfoil-shaped, micro-groves or tapering cross-sections, to effect various modifications in flight. The fins may be formed with one or more apertures therein, to reduce the weight of the annular arrow fletch and/or for reasons of aerodynamics.
The central elongated cylindrical cylinder interior smooth wall of the annular arrow fletch that create a loose interference fit between the arrow shaft and the central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure during installation engagement there between could alternatively comprise other configurations, e.g., a taper, or a single projection in the form of a flexible O-ring. Such projections, tapers, fingers, O-rings, or similar self-adjustment or self-centering features may further be adapted to permit a single annular arrow fletch to be used with a variety of arrows having shafts of varying dimensions, tolerances, or other characteristics, e.g., by construction using a flexible material, such that the projections expand or contract to create a friction or interference fit with arrow shaft(s) having varying diameters, or even shafts having cross-sections other than circular.
Materials for constructing an annular arrow fletch consistent with the present invention may include one or more metal contacts, e.g., aluminum, brass, stainless steel, steel, copper, conductive ink, conductive paint and the body of the invention made of plastics such as; nylon, acrylic, polyethylene, or polypropylene. Such an annular arrow fletch may be manufactured as a one-piece unit or other multi-piece designs, and may be flexible, rigid, semi-rigid, or comprise components of differing materials or having differing elasticity and rigidity. The annular arrow fletch may be made in a variety of varying lengths, colors, and configurations, and may be manufactured by a number of techniques, e.g., as injection molding, tooled, and or 3-D printing. The annular arrow fletch may comprise luminescent, bioluminescent, electro-luminescent, or photo-luminescent materials for ease of visibility and retrieval, particularly in dark or dull-colored environments.
Those skilled in the art will recognize that an annular arrow fletch consistent with the present invention has utility not only in the field of archery, but may also have utility in improving the flight of other types of projectiles, e.g., a javelin or an atlatl (a device that is used to throw with considerable mechanical advantage a lightweight spear called a dart). It is further noted that a projectile used in conjunction with an annular arrow fletch consistent with the present invention does not necessarily have to be one adapted for air travel, but instead could be a projectile for travel in water (e.g., for bow fishing or spearfishing), or another liquid or gaseous media.
A set of annular arrow fletch having differing dimensions from one another may be provided (differing in, e.g., diameter of the annular wing, angular configuration of the fins, diameter of the central elongated cylindrical cylinder structure, length of the central elongated cylindrical cylinder, which may have utility, e.g., when using arrow shafts having differing diameters. Further, a set of annular arrow fletch could comprise a plurality of differently colored annular arrow fletch for ease of individual identification.
Although the present invention has been set forth in terms of the embodiments described herein, it is to be understood that such disclosure is purely illustrative and is not to be interpreted as limiting. Consequently, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, various alterations, modifications, and or alternative applications of the invention will, no doubt, be suggested to those skilled in the art after having read the preceding disclosure. For example, the annular arrow fletch annular cross-sections may be tapered to have inner diameters that narrow along the respective lengths of the annular arrow fletch central elongated cylindrical cylinder. Also, if desired, one or more apertures may be formed in the fins. And the annular wing need not be circular, but may be ovular, airfoil-shaped and or tapered in cross-section.
A stabilizer may be manufactured using a thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPU) in a fused filament fabrication (FFF), or fused deposition modeling (FDM), manufacturing process. FDM and FFF may involve extrusion of melted material (thermoplastic polymers) being deposited in a predetermined path layer-by-layer, typically, originating from a roll of filament (e.g., SainSmart TPU filament). The filament may be high strength and flexible. Each spool of TPU filament may include 0.8 kg/1.76 lb of material. The filament may be drawn out to a diameter of 1.75 mm with a dimensional accuracy of +/−0.05 mm, Recommended printer settings may include: print Nozzle, 0.4-0.8 mm; extruder temperature, 195-230° C.; print bed temperature, 40-60° C.; and cooling Fan, On.
A stabilizer may be used on a self-propelled projectiles, arrows, crossbow bolts, spears, javelins, jarts, blowgun darts, throwing darts, toy rockets, toy projectiles etc. The compression feature of our product allows it to affix itself to the projectile being thrown, fired, shot, launched, flung etc. The compression feature of our product is due to the fact that the measurement and fit of the inside diameter of the stabilizer is slightly less than the measurement of the outside diameter of the projectile to which it is affixed to.
A stabilizer may include a variation of colors including but not limited to glow, orange, blue, red, purple, green, white, black, pink, violet.
A stabilizer may not be glued on a shaft. In fact, a stabilizer may be configured to pop off/slide off upon impact/pass through marking the point of impact and/or shot depending on the projectile being utilized.
Although the present invention has been set forth in terms of the embodiments described herein, it is to be understood that such disclosure is purely illustrative and is not to be interpreted as limiting. Consequently, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, various alterations, modifications, and/or alternative applications of the invention will, no doubt, be suggested to those skilled in the art after having read the preceding disclosure. A stabilizer annular cross-sections may be tapered to have inner diameters that project along their respective lengths of the stabilizer. Also, if desired, one or more apertures may be formed in the fins. A circumferentially extending wing need not be circular, but may be ovular, airfoil-shaped and or tapered in cross-section. Accordingly, it is intended that the following claims be interpreted as encompassing all alterations, modifications, or alternative applications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.
The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/994,190, filed Mar. 24, 2020, entitled PROJECTILE STABILIZERS, PROJECTILES WITH STABILIZERS, AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference thereto.
| Number | Name | Date | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20150113782 | Blosser | Apr 2015 | A1 |
| 20160231092 | Hamazaki | Aug 2016 | A1 |
| 20200025538 | Hill | Jan 2020 | A1 |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20210302140 A1 | Sep 2021 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62994190 | Mar 2020 | US |
