Webbed Cable Catapult System

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 (e) based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application having Application No. 63/497,705 filed on Apr. 22, 2023, and entitled “Webbed Cable Catapult System”, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to launching systems for launching projectiles. More particularly, systems and methods are disclosed that are catapult launching systems designed to launch projectiles at high velocity. Such systems and methods would be useful in space launch systems, methods of transportations and artillery.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Launching objects long distances or even into space can be considered problem of transmission and leverage, rather than raw energy.

For example, a freight train traveling 50 miles per hour typically has more than enough kinetic energy to launch a small satellite into space. The issue involves transferring kinetic energy from a slow-moving massive object into a fast-moving smaller object.

Typically, levers are the most obvious choice for leverage. However, there are disadvantages. Levers are usually designed to take the form of a spinning catapult, and can be subjected to extremely high flexural stress and centrifugal force. Spinning catapults usually are subjected to high friction which could make it difficult to maintain its velocity. Additionally, these levers are costly in construction.

Currently, ways to launch projectiles of interest without friction, and without high flexural stress are being sought after.

Although the above-mentioned systems are adequate to launch objects, there are disadvantages. Typically, the lever systems described above are restricted by high flexural stress and centrifugal force.

For the foregoing reasons, there exists a need to find a solution to provide a launching system, that is more efficient, less expensive, and can address the above-mentioned problems.

Furthermore, it would be advantageous to have a system that is easy to launch projectiles at high velocity, that can be mass produced, is reasonably priced and easy to scale up.

These features, advantages and other embodiments of the present invention are further made apparent in the remainder of the present description, appended claims and drawings, to those of ordinary skill in the art.

SUMMARY

The present invention generally is related to systems affiliated with launching a projectile of interest. More specifically, the systems are directed to web cable catapult systems for launching the projectile. According to an embodiment of the present invention, a web cable catapult system for launching a projectile, the system includes a moveable pulling element; and, a web cable network comprising a plurality of interconnected flexible cables. The system can include support elements to anchor the web cable network. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, when the pulling element is in a launch position, the web cable network tightens such that the middle section of each flexible cable of the web cable network form a V-shaped vertex.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the web cable network includes at least three flexible cable pairs connected in sequence, hereinafter referred to as a first flexible pulling cable pair, at least one middle flexible cable pair, and a last flexible cable pair; and a flexible launch cable configured to connect to a projectile.

Preferably, the flexible launch cable comprises a right end, a left end and a middle section between the right end and left end. Each flexible cable of the flexible cable pairs comprises a proximal end, a distal end, and a middle section between the proximal end and the distal end.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first flexible pulling cable pair comprises a right first flexible pulling cable and a left first flexible pulling cable. The proximal ends of the first flexible pulling cable pair attachable to the pulling element, and the distal ends of the first flexible pulling cable pair attachable to a first support element.

According to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the at least one middle flexible cable pair comprises a right first middle flexible cable and a left first middle flexible cable.

Preferably, the middle section of the right first flexible pulling cable is attachable to the proximal end of the right first middle flexible cable, and the distal end of the right first middle flexible cable attachable to a second support element.

The last flexible cable pair comprises a right last flexible cable and a left last flexible cable. The middle section of the right first middle flexible cable is attachable to the proximal end of the right last flexible cable. The distal end of the right last flexible cable is attachable to a third support element.

Preferably, the middle section of the left first flexible pulling cable is attachable to the proximal end of the left first middle flexible cable, and the distal end of the left first middle flexible cable is attachable to a fourth support element.

Typically the middle section of the left first middle flexible cable is attachable to the proximal end of the left last flexible cable, and the distal end of the left last flexible cable is attachable to a fifth support element.

In accordance to an embodiment of the present invention, the right end of the flexible launch cable is attachable to the middle section of the right last flexible cable, and the left end of the flexible launch cable is attachable to the middle section of the left last flexible cable.

According to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the support elements anchor the web cable network; whereby, when the pulling element is in a launch position, the web cable network tightens such that the middle section of each flexible cable of the three flexible cable pairs, and the flexible launch cable form a V-shaped vertex.

In yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, when the launching system is in a release position, the launch cable returns to an original position such that web cable network loosens such that the middle section of each flexible cable of the three flexible cable pairs and the flexible launch cable release from the form of the V-shaped vertex.

In yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the flexible launch cable further includes a launching device. Preferably, the launching device includes securing means to hold and release the projectile during launch. More preferably, the launching device is connected to the middle section of the flexible launch cable.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the launching device is connected to the flexible launch cable and is capable of selectively engaging and disengaging the projectile from the launching device to launch and release the projectile from the launching device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to describe embodiments of the present invention more fully, reference is made to the accompanying drawings. These drawings are not to be considered limitations in the scope of the invention, but are merely illustrative.

FIG. 1A illustrates a view of a conventional launching system showing basic principle mechanism in launch mode; according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1B illustrates a view of a conventional launching system showing basic principle mechanism in release mode; according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2A illustrates a view of a web cable catapult launching system showing launch mode; according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2B illustrates a view of a web cable catapult launching system showing release mode; according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3A illustrates an alternate configuration of a web cable catapult launching system showing launch mode; according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3B illustrates an alternate configuration of a web cable catapult launching system showing release mode; according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4A illustrates a view of a launching device of the web cable catapult launching system; according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4B illustrates a view of a projectile of the web cable catapult launching system; according to an embodiment of the present invention.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

The description and the drawings of the present disclosure focus on one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention, and describe exemplary optional features and/or alternative embodiments of the present invention. The description and drawings are for the purpose of illustration and not limitation. Those of ordinary skill in the art would recognize variations, modifications and alternatives which are also within the scope of the invention.

The present invention addresses the aforementioned need for a launching system, such as a catapult, for launching a projectile (such as an unmanned aircraft, satellite, fighter aircraft, etc.) More specifically, the invention generally relates to systems that provide launching system for launching a projectile at high velocity.

Various embodiments of a webbed cable catapult system and methods of launching are disclosed that can increase the predetermined velocity of the projectile to be launched by including the addition of flexible cables that is configured to launch the projectile.

In an embodiment of the present invention, systems and methods are provided without the use of any external levers. Typically, the webbed cable catapult system utilizes a plurality of flexible cables, attachable and connected to each other in series to form a web cable network. Preferably the web cable network includes support elements to anchor the web cable network. According to an embodiment of the present invention, during launch mode, the web cable network tightens such that each flexible cables can be configured (formed, bent) into a V-shape vertex to generate leverage without a lever. Preferably, the webbed cable catapult system is used to launch projectiles at a very high desired speed.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the principle mechanism of the launching systems described according to the present invention can be illustrated in FIGS. 1A, B.

FIG. 1A illustrates a view of a conventional launching system showing basic principle mechanism in launch mode; according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring now to FIG. 1A a schematic diagram illustrating a view of a basic conventional principle mechanism of a launching system 10 is provided according to an embodiment of the present invention. Typically, the principal of the launching systems principle of operation is based on a mechanical property involving trigonometry. Typically, during launch mode, when a cable (for example, a string) is configured or formed into a V-shaped vertex, and then pulled apart by its ends during release mode, the vertex of the cable can potentially move faster than the ends of the string or cable being directly pulled.

According to a typical embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 1A illustrates a system in launch mode, where the cable 20 forms a V-shaped vertex with coordinates at (4,-3). FIG. 1B illustrates a view of a basic conventional principle mechanism of the launching system 10 showing basic principle mechanism in release mode; according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, when the cable 20 is pulled in launch mode, the cable 20 under tension, can form a V-shaped vertex (FIG. 1A) and then released in release mode (FIG. 1B), where the cable 20 is fully straightened, and its vertex moves to (5,0). So, the vertex of cable 20 moves 1 unit right and 3 units up, for a total displacement of square root 10 units (approximately, 3.16 units). However, the end of the cable 20 only needs to be pulled 2 units to the right, from the coordinates (8,0) to (10,0).

According to an embodiment of the present invention, this difference between input displacement and output displacement produces a speed ratio since the vertex of the cable 20 moves faster than the end of the cable 20. Typically, the speed ratio becomes higher when the cable 20 is pulled to a shallower angle. For example, if the triangles formed were instead 9-40-41 triangles (which is much shallower than the 3-4-5 triangle), the vertex would be displaced by over 9 units from an input displacement of only 2 units.

Those skilled in the art can appreciate this principle illustrates the V-shaped bowstring converts the outward velocity of its limbs to the forward velocity of the projectile to be launched. The speed of ratio of the projectile to be launched, relative to the bow's limbs, increases as the bow spreads apart, as the bowstring forms an increasingly shallow angle. Bows can be very efficient at transferring their energy into an arrow, however there are ways to improve this.

Typically, although a bow and arrow can be efficient at lower velocities, it can be difficult to scale up efficiently to reach greater velocities. Generally, the speed ratio of a bow and arrow remains low for most of its launch, nearing the 2-to-3 ratio described in FIGS. 1A-B. Additionally, bows typically only use elastic energy stored in their limbs as a source of energy. Even a strong spring does not reach a high velocity when released, and as a result, it does not produce sufficient kinetic energy.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A-B in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the system 10 illustrates this basic principle mechanism with two 3-4-5 triangles placed side-by-side. A cable 20 10 units long, is configured into a symmetrical V-shaped vertex, resulting in two halves of the cable 20 each being 5 units long and slopes 3 units down for every 4 units across, thus forming the hypotenuses of two 3-4-5 triangles (the hypotenuses of each of the two triangles which are each 5″ long).

In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 1A, when bent, the horizontal width of the cable 20 is 8″ and the vertical depth 30 is 3″. The cable 20 can be straightened by moving the end 2″ to the side, this is referred to as “input displacement”. Referring now to FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating a view of a principle mechanism of the launching system 10 in release mode showing once the cable 20 has been straightened, the vertex of the cable 20 which can hold a moveable weight 30 moves 3″ upward and 1″ to the side. The straightened cable 20 in release mode is shown in FIG. 1B. The motion of this weight 30 can be referred to as “output displacement”.

Because the output displacement exceeds the input displacement, and each point of the cable 20 is moved in the same duration of time, this creates a speed ratio. This mechanical property is widely utilized by the same principle mechanics known to those skilled in the art by a bowstring (of a bow and arrow). It allows the bow to be highly efficient by transferring energy from the limbs of a bow into the arrow.

Referring again to FIG. 1A, as the V-shaped cable 20 can be configured in a shallower angle, resulting in the speed ratio typically becoming more pronounced (greater). In an alternate embodiment of the present invention, if the triangles in FIGS. 1A-B were configured into 9-40-41 triangles, which are considerably shallower and more obtuse than 3-4-5 triangles; during release mode, when straightened (FIG. 1B), the input displacement would still be 2 units to the side, but the output displacement would be 9 units up and 1 unit to the side, resulting in a greater speed ratio.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the webbed cable catapult systems and methods disclosed address these flaws and could potentially launch projectiles at an extremely high velocity.

Referring now to FIGS. 2A-B a view of a webbed cable catapult system 100 in one possible configuration to launch a projectile is provided according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2A shows a preferred embodiment of the present invention when the pulling initially begins and the system 100 is in launch mode. According to an embodiment of the present invention, a web cable catapult system for launching a projectile is disclosed. Preferably, the system 100 includes a moveable pulling element 101; and, a web cable network comprising a plurality of interconnected flexible cables. The system 100 can include support elements to anchor the web cable network. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, when the pulling element is in a launch position, the web cable network tightens such that the middle section of each flexible cable of the web cable network form a V-shaped vertex.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the web cable network includes at least three flexible cable pairs 103 and 104, 105 and 106, 107 and 108 connected in sequence, hereinafter referred to as a first flexible pulling cable pair 103 and 104, at least one middle flexible cable pair 105 and 106, and a last flexible cable pair 107 and 108; and a flexible launch cable 111 configured to connect to a projectile 110.

Preferably, the flexible launch cable 111 comprises a right end, a left end and a middle section between the right end and left end. Each flexible cable of the flexible cable pairs 103 and 104, 105 and 106, 107 and 108 comprises a proximal end, a distal end, and a middle section between the proximal end and the distal end.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first flexible pulling cable pair 103 and 104 comprises a right first flexible pulling cable 103 and a left first flexible pulling cable 104. The proximal ends of the first flexible pulling cable pair 103 and 104 attachable to the pulling element 101, and the distal ends of the first flexible pulling cable pair 103 and 104 attachable to a first support element 112a.

According to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the at least one middle flexible cable pair 105 and 106 comprising a right first middle flexible cable 105 and a left first middle flexible cable 106.

The middle section of the right first flexible pulling cable 103 attachable to the proximal end of the right first middle flexible cable 105, and the distal end of the right first middle flexible cable 105 attachable to a second support element 112b.

The last flexible cable pair 107 and 108 comprising a right last flexible cable 107 and a left last flexible cable 108. The middle section of the right first middle flexible cable 105 attachable to the proximal end of the right last flexible cable 107.

The distal end of the right last flexible cable 107 attachable to a third support element 112c.

The middle section of the left first flexible pulling cable 104 attachable to the proximal end of the left first middle flexible cable 106, and the distal end of the left first middle flexible cable 106 attachable to a fourth support element 112d.

The middle section of the left first middle flexible cable 106 attachable to the proximal end of the left last flexible cable 108, and the distal end of the left last flexible cable 108 attachable to a fifth support element 112e.

The right end of the flexible launch cable 111 attachable to the middle section of the right last flexible cable 107, and the left end of the flexible launch cable 111 attachable to the middle section of the left last flexible cable 108.

According to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the support elements 112a-e anchor the web cable network.

In a most preferred embodiment of the present invention, when the pulling element 101 is in a launch position, the web cable network tightens such that the middle section of each flexible cable of the three flexible cable pairs 103 and 104, 105 and 106, 107 and 108, and the flexible launch cable 111 form a V-shaped vertex.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, referring to FIG. 2A during launch mode, the movable pulling element 101 begins moving forward pulling the web cable network via the attachable first flexible pulling cable pair 103 and 104. Once the first flexible pulling cable pair 103 and 104 has been pulled, all subsequent flexible cables pairs, the at least one middle flexible cable pair 105 and 106, the last flexible cable pair 107 and 108 and launch cable 111 of the web cable network tightens such that the middle section of each flexible cable of the three flexible cable pairs 103 and 104, 105 and 106, 107 and 108, and the flexible launch cable 111 form a V-shaped vertex, which multiplies the speed ratio for the web cable catapult system 100.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the output velocity—the projectile 110, could potentially be thousands of times faster than the input velocity—the pulling element 101.

According to a typical embodiment of the present invention, launch mode is when the pulling element moves forward in a launch position, the web cable network tightens such that the middle section of each flexible cable of the three flexible cable pairs and the flexible launch cable form a V-shaped vertex.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, during release mode, once the tension in the flexible cables of the aforementioned web cable catapult system attains a desired speed ratio in launch mode; the web cable network of the web cable catapult system releases the launch cable from a resting position with tension in the web cable network, to a relaxation of the flexible cables in the web cable network, simultaneously disengaging the projectile of interest from the launch cable.

FIG. 2B shows a preferred embodiment of the present invention when the pulling is completed and the web cable catapult system 100 is in release mode to release and launch the projectile 110.

In yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the system 100 depicted in FIG. 2A multiplies the speed ratio of the three flexible cable pairs 103 and 104, 105 and 106, 107 and 108, and the flexible launch cable 111. However, those skilled in the art can appreciate that any number of additional flexible cables can be attachable to the web cable network to increase the speed ratio of the projectile 110 further. Preferably, the additional flexible cables added to the system 100 are in cable pairs.

According to yet an alternate preferred embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3A illustrates an alternate configuration of the web cable catapult launching system 100 showing launch mode. Referring now to FIG. 3A, a web cable catapult system 200 for launching a projectile; the launching system 200 comprises the launching system 100 further comprising a plurality of middle flexible cable pairs between the first pulling pair 103 and 104; and the last flexible cable pair 107 and 108. Preferably, launch system 200 further includes the at least one middle flexible cable pair 105 and 106 of launching system 100 and two additional middle flexible cable pairs 113 and 114, and 115 and 116.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an alternate web cable catapult system for launching a projectile is disclosed. Preferably, the system 200 includes the elements of system 100, including the moveable pulling element 101; and, the web cable network comprising a plurality of interconnected flexible cables. The system 200 preferably includes the support elements 112a-e to anchor the web cable network. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, when the pulling element is in a launch position, the web cable network tightens such that the middle section of each flexible cable of the web cable network form a V-shaped vertex.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, system 200 includes the web cable network of system 100 which includes the at least three flexible cable pairs 103 and 104, 105 and 106, 107 and 108, and further includes cable pairs 113 and 114, 115 and 116, connected in sequence, hereinafter referred to as the first flexible pulling cable pair 103 and 104, the at least one middle flexible cable pair 105 and 106, the additional middle flexible cable pairs 113 and 114, 115 and 116, and the last flexible cable pair 107 and 108; and the flexible launch cable 111 configured to connect to the projectile 110.

In still yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, variations of the web cable catapult system include any number of additional flexible cable pairs connected between the first flexible cable pair 103 and 104, and the last flexible pair. Preferably, the additional flexible cable pairs are attached similarly as described herein. illustrates just one configuration and demonstrates how additional cable pairs are attachable and interconnected within the web cable network of the web cable catapult system to launch the projectile.

According to a typical embodiment of the present invention, the system further comprises additional middle flexible cable pairs. Preferably, the additional cable pairs are attachable between the last middle flexible cable pair and the last flexible cable pair.

Each flexible cable of the additional middle flexible cable pairs comprises a proximal end, a distal end, and a middle section between the proximal end and the distal end; and, each additional middle flexible cable pair comprising a right additional middle flexible cable pair and a left additional middle flexible cable pair. Preferably, the additional middle flexible cable pair(s) are attachable to the web cable catapult system in the following manner. The proximal end of the right additional middle flexible cable is attachable to the middle section of the previous right last middle flexible cable pair, and the distal end of the right additional middle flexible cable is attachable to a next supporting element.

Similarly, the proximal end of the left additional middle flexible cable is attachable to the middle section of the previous left last middle flexible cable pair, and the distal end of the left additional middle flexible cable is attachable to a next supporting element. This newly added cable pair becomes the last middle flexible cable pair and is attached to the last flexible cable pair in the way described above, to form the web cable network.

In yet a most preferred embodiment of the present invention, additional middle flexible cable pairs can be continually added in this matter until the desired cable pairs are added correlating to greater speed ratio and high velocity to launch the projectile.

Preferably, the flexible launch cable 111 comprises a right end, a left end and a middle section between the right end and left end. Each flexible cable of the flexible cable pairs 103 and 104, 105 and 106, 107 and 108, 113 and 114, 115 and 116 comprises a proximal end, a distal end, and a middle section between the proximal end and the distal end.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first flexible pulling cable pair 103 and 104 comprises the right first flexible pulling cable 103 and the left first flexible pulling cable 104. The proximal ends of the first flexible pulling cable pair 103 and 104 attachable to the pulling element 101, and the distal ends of the first flexible pulling cable pair 103 and 104 attachable to the first support element 112a.

According to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the at least one middle flexible cable pair 105 and 106 comprises the right first middle flexible cable 105 and the left first middle flexible cable 106.

The middle section of the right first flexible pulling cable 103 attachable to the proximal end of the right first middle flexible cable 105, and the distal end of the right first middle flexible cable 105 attachable to the second support element 112b.

According to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the at least one middle flexible cable pair 113 and 114 comprises a right second middle flexible cable 113 and a left second middle flexible cable 114.

The middle section of the right first middle flexible cable 105 attachable to the proximal end of the right second middle flexible cable 113, and the distal end of the right second middle flexible cable 113 attachable to a sixth support element 112f.

According to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the at least one middle flexible cable pair 115 and 116 comprises a right third middle flexible cable 115 and a left third middle flexible cable 116.

The middle section of the right second middle flexible cable 113 attachable to the proximal end of the right third middle flexible cable 115, and the distal end of the right third middle flexible cable 115 attachable to a seventh support element 112g.

The last flexible cable pair 107 and 108 comprising the right last flexible cable 107 and the left last flexible cable 108. The middle section of the right third middle flexible cable 115 attachable to the proximal end of the right last flexible cable 107.

The distal end of the right last flexible cable 107 attachable to the third support element 112c.

The middle section of the left first flexible pulling cable 104 attachable to the proximal end of the left first middle flexible cable 106, and the distal end of the left first middle flexible cable 106 attachable to the fourth support element 112d.

The middle section of the left first middle flexible cable 106 attachable to the proximal end of the left second middle flexible cable 114, and the distal end of the left second middle flexible cable 114 attachable to an eighth support element 112h.

The middle section of the left second middle flexible cable 114 attachable to the proximal end of the left third middle flexible cable 116, and the distal end of the left third middle flexible cable 116 attachable to a ninth support element 112i.

The middle section of the left third middle flexible cable 116 attachable to the proximal end of the left last flexible cable 108, and the distal end of the left last flexible cable 108 attachable to the fifth support element 112e.

The right end of the flexible launch cable 111 attachable to the middle section of the right last flexible cable 107, and the left end of the flexible launch cable 111 attachable to the middle section of the left last flexible cable 108.

According to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the support elements 112a-i anchor the web cable network.

In a most preferred embodiment of the present invention, when the pulling element 101 is in a launch position, the web cable network tightens such that the middle section of each flexible cable of the five flexible cable pairs 103 and 104, 105 and 106, 107 and 108, 113 and 114, 115 and 116 and the flexible launch cable 111 form a V-shaped vertex.

In yet additional alternative preferred embodiments of the present invention, variations of the web cable catapult systems for launching a projectile are disclosed and are configured to increase the speed ratio by the addition of middle flexible cable pairs. The launching mechanism disclosed illustrates that when a flexible cable forming a V-shaped vertex is attachable to an additional flexible cable V-shaped vertex, the speed ratios of the two cables can be multiplied together allowing the total speed ratio of the launch system to increase significantly and generate greater velocity for launching a projectile.

In yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, unlimited number of cables can be added to the cable web network to increase the web cable network, the unlimited speed ratios of the additional cables multiplied together to further increase the speed ratio for launching the projectile.

Those skilled in the art can appreciate the variations of adding additional cable pairs whereby the configurations vary in the number of cables used and the way they are angled. However, the same principle to generate maximum velocity with high speed ratio is disclosed and applied to the embodiments according to the systems disclosed in FIGS. 2A-3B.

According to a typical embodiment of the present invention, launch mode is when the pulling element moves forward in a launch position, the web cable network tightens such that the middle section of each flexible cable of the flexible cable pairs and the flexible launch cable form a V-shaped vertex.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, during release mode, once the tension in the flexible cables of the aforementioned web cable catapult system attains a desired speed ratio in launch mode; the web cable network of the web cable catapult system releases the launch cable from a resting position with tension in the web cable network, to a relaxation of the flexible cables in the web cable network, simultaneously disengaging the projectile of interest from the launch cable.

FIG. 3B illustrates an alternate configuration of a web cable catapult launching system showing release mode; according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring now to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B, according to the present invention, the systems 100 and 200 can further comprise a track 102. The track 102 can be any track known to those skilled in the art, including a guide, road, slot, etc. The track 102 can be configured to adapt to guide the moveable pulling element 101 to move forward in a straight line resulting in less friction on the systems 100 and 200. For example, a track 102 can be a paved road to allow a pulling element 101 such as a vehicle to drive in a straight line and at a higher speed. Alternatively, when the pulling element 101 is a freight train, the track 102 can be a train track.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the flexible cables can be any flexible material that are known to those skilled in the art. The cable includes but is not limited to any components made of flexible material including rope, fishing wire, metal, composite, plastic such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and mixtures thereof. In another embodiment of the present invention, the flexible cables can be made of various combinations of components. In one preferred embodiment, the flexible cables can include flexible material with elasticity to provide greater high speed velocity when launching a projectile.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the flexible cables can be attachable to each other by any means known to those skilled in the art, such as tying, soldering, etc.

In yet still another embodiment of the present invention, the flexible cables are high tensile strength and able to withstand force and tension created during launch mode, keeping the web cable network intact.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the flexible cables can be of any length and have the ability to create tension during launch mode to achieve a predetermined desired maximum speed ratio.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the flexible cables are identical in components, length, weight, tensile strength, etc.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the flexible cables are not identical and can be of varying components, length, weight, tensile strength, etc.

In a most preferred embodiment of the present invention, the web cable network comprises a minimum of three cable pairs and one launching cable. Example of the preferred web cable catapult system for launching the projectile is illustrated in FIGS. 2A-B based on the principle mechanism illustrated in FIGS. 1A-B.

Multiple flexible cables of the web cable network can be attachable to each other by any fastening means known to those skilled in the art, to securely fasten and hold in place the flexible cables and the flexible launch cable. This includes, tying the cables together, hook and loop closures, soldering, etc.

According to a most preferred embodiment of the present invention, the web cable catapult system comprises a web cable network able to maintain high structural integrity and functionality under high acceleration forces used to generate high speed ratio generated during launch of the projectile.

According to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the positioning and spacing of the flexible cables and the support elements of the web cable network can be configured to launch the projectile with maximum high velocity speed towards a designated target of interest.

Preferably, the pulling element and the launching projectile are positioned along a linear axis during launch mode and release mode.

In one embodiment, the support elements can include any support elements known to those skilled in the art that can constrain and anchor the web cable network. Support elements can include for example, metal stakes, bolts, or rods, that can be secured to a foundation. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the support elements can be metal rods that are placed in the ground that secure the flexible cables and the weight of systems 100 and 200 including the force when being launched.

Typically, the support elements and the flexible cables from the web cable network, can be configured and arranged at various angles and positions to accommodate for spatial constraints. Preferably, the support elements and web cable network can be designed and equipped to support and engage the projectile to be launched and released.

According to another embodiment of the system, the pulling element can be any element known to those skilled in the art that can pull or tow the web cable network. The pulling element can include any vehicle such as a car, sport utility vehicle or truck, or freight train which is used as a source of input energy for the system. Preferably, the pulling element can be chosen, configured, and comprises adequate mass. In one embodiment, the pulling element is chosen depending on the size and kinetic energy of the projectile. Preferably, the pulling element has a mass large enough (for example, the weight of a car, truck, or freight train) and can obtain a high enough maximum speed capable of pulling or towing the flexible cables of the web cable network and achieving maximum speed. For example, the pulling element could be a freight train if the kinetic energy of a pulling element such as an automobile was insufficient for pulling the high speed profile.

In a most preferred embodiment of the present invention, during launch mode, the pulling element pulls and tightens the attachable web cable network, such that the middle section of each flexible cable of the flexible cable pairs and the flexible launch cable form a V-shaped vertex.

Typically, the pulling element can be initially positioned and attachable to the web cable network that is anchored by the support elements. Preferably, during launch mode, the pulling element only pulls on the web cable network that is anchored by support elements.

The pulling element pulls the web cable network creating axial tension accelerating the projectile until the projectile reaches a desired high speed ratio.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the web cable catapult systems 100, 200 for launching a projectile can further comprise a launching device 109. Preferably the launching device 109 engages with the projectile to be launched by holding and releasing the projectile. More preferably, the launching device 109 comprises securing means to hold and release a projectile during launch, the launching device 109 connected to the middle section of the flexible launch cable 111.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the launching device 109 is connected to the flexible launch cable 111 and is capable of selectively engaging and disengaging the projectile 110 from the launching device 109 to launch and release the projectile 110 from the launching device 109.

In a most preferred embodiment, the launching device includes a launching mechanism and a release mechanism capable of securing and releasing the projectile from the launching device once the projectile has reached a predetermined desired high velocity speed. In one embodiment of the present invention, the projectile can be tethered to the launching device.

According to a typical embodiment of the present invention, launch mode is when the pulling element moves forward in a launch position, the web cable network tightens such that the middle section of each flexible cable of the flexible cable pairs and the flexible launch cable form a V-shaped vertex.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, during release mode, once the tension in the flexible cables of the aforementioned web cable catapult system attains a desired speed ratio in launch mode; the web cable network of the web cable catapult system releases the launch cable from a resting position with tension in the web cable network, to a relaxation of the flexible cables in the web cable network, simultaneously disengaging the projectile of interest from the launching device.

More preferably, the launching device 109 engaged with the projectile 110 can be configured at different angles to accurately aim and release the projectile with precision in a predetermined targeted position. In another most preferred embodiment of the present invention, during launch mode, the projectile is tethered and secured to the launching device. The pulling element pulls on the web cable network creating tensions on the cables, accelerating the projectile until the projectile reaches a desired high speed ratio. Preferably, when the cables reach the desired speed ratio the web cable catapult system engages in release mode FIGS. 2B, 3B resulting in the cables returning to relaxed state, accelerating the projectile to be released from the launching device and launching the projectile to space.

According to a typical embodiment of the present invention, the launching device 109 can be any device known to those skilled in the art that can launch a projectile 110. Typically, the launching device 109 can include a device resembling a simple tether comprising a material attachable to the launch cable 111 capable of engaging with a projectile 110. Preferably, to engage with more elaborate systems, the launching device 109 can comprise intricate devices such as a sabot.

An example of an exemplary launching device to be used with the web cable catapult system according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 4. It can be appreciated to those skilled in the art that this is just one example of a launching device that can be used to launch a projectile. Embodiments of various launching devices to be used with the web cable catapult systems disclosed can be used.

FIG. 4A illustrates a view of a launching device of the web cable catapult launching systems described in FIGS. 2A-3B; according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the flexible launch cable being pulled can be connected to the launching device, with a projectile attached. Referring to FIG. 4A an example of launching device 300, such as a sabot, to be used in the web cable catapult system typically comprises two limbs, for example spars 203 bolted to a frame, with a spigot 201 in the center; the launching device 300 attachable to a flexible launch cable 202, allowing the force of a flexible launch cable 202 to be situated in front of the projectile's center of mass, stabilizing the projectile in launch.

In a typical embodiment of the present invention, the limbs 203 typically allow the flexible cables to pull on the projectile 208 ahead of its center of mass. This makes the projectile 208 more stable while being launched and reduces the chance of the projectile 208 rotating. The projectile 208 typically can be attached to a spigot 201 to secure and hold it in place during launch mode. Preferably, the projectile 208 is inserted over the spigot 201, which releases the projectile 208 once it stops accelerating forward.

According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a ring 205 can be used to keep the projectile 208 away from the ground. A breaking cord 206 preferably is fixed to a supporting element, such as a stake 207 which is weaker than the other flexible cables and designed to snap when pulling begins.

In yet another alternate various embodiment of the present invention, a thin cable, for example, a breaking cord 206 could also be attached between the launching device 300, for example, the sabot and an extra support element 207, such as a stake in the ground, allowing the flexible cables of the web cable network to be subjected to tension, such that the middle section of each flexible cable of the three flexible cable pairs and the flexible launch cable disclosed in FIGS. 2A-2B and 3A-3B form a V-shaped vertex before the cables start moving. The breaking cord 206 preferably is used to ensure the system(s) described above and illustrated (FIGS. 2A-3B) are taut when pulling begins, thus maximizing tension during launch. In an embodiment of the present invention, the breaking cord 206 typically is attached to the sabot 300 by a connecting device, such as a hoop 204.

Preferably, once the cables are subjected to enough tension, the thin cable would break, allowing the projectile to be released at an even higher speed.

Referring now to FIG. 4B, an enlarged view of an example of a projectile 208 to be launched by the web cable catapult system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The projectile can be any object that can be catapulted or launched. Typical examples can include and are not limited to aircraft, unmanned devices such as satellite, drone, spacecraft, marbles, arrows, artillery systems, etc.

It can be appreciated to those skilled in the art that variations to the web cable catapult system are included, such as cable pairs, additional pulleys, weights etc., to increase the speed ratio whereby launching the projectile of interest at a high velocity.

In yet still another embodiment of the present invention, methods of launching a projectile of interest using the aforementioned described system and those illustrated in FIGS. 2A-3B are disclosed.

Typically, the disclosed web cable catapult systems store energy generated in launch mode, when the pulling element pulls on the attachable web cable network anchored by support elements, creating tension on the flexible cable pairs and the flexible launch cable. During release mode, the web cable system releases the stored energy in the web cable network, simultaneous to the launching device releasing the projectile.

According to an embodiment of the present invention a method of launching a projectile of interest using the web cable catapult system is disclosed. The method comprising the steps of first, moving the pulling element forward from a release position to a launch position, whereby the pulling element pulls the attachable connected web cable network anchored by support elements, thereby tightening the flexible cable pairs and the flexible launch cable in the web cable network such that the middle section of each flexible cable of the cable pairs and the flexible launch cable form a V-shaped vertex. Typically, the tension on the web cable network store energy. Next, releasing the stored energy from the web cable network; thereby loosening and releasing the tension thereby relaxing the flexible cables while simultaneously disengaging the projectile from the flexible launch cable, thereby launching the projectile from the web cable catapult system.

In yet an alternate embodiment of the present invention, the method of launching a projectile of interest using the web cable catapult system, wherein the system includes a launching device capable of engaging and/or securing the projectile during launch mode, and disengaging and/or releasing the projectile during release mode.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the webbed cable catapult system and method has several substantial advantages over, for example, a conventional bow and arrow system. First, the system for launching the projectile has a much greater speed ratio between input and output, due to the web cable network using multiple flexible cables in a V-shape. Secondly, the system has a greater powerful source of input energy, using a pulling element such as a moving vehicle instead of a bow's limbs.

Additionally, the webbed cable catapult system and method has advantages over a standard catapult, for example, one which uses counterweights. A standard catapult typically uses a lever to generate a speed ratio between a projectile and a counterweight. However, the lever, typically has considerable mass itself, which can require the counterweight to place much of its energy into a component other than its projectile. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the flexible cables in the web cable network, have much less mass by comparison.

Furthermore, the material in a lever can be subjected to high mounts of flexural stress and centrifugal stress, both which can increase exponentially when a lever is scaled up in size. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the webbed cable catapult system typically experiences only axial tension, which usually does not increase with a cable's length. Also, most materials can sustain higher tension than flexural forces.

Throughout the description and drawings, example embodiments are given with reference to specific configurations. It can be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the present invention can be embodied in other specific forms. Those of ordinary skill in the art would be able to practice such other embodiments without undue experimentation. The scope of the present invention, for the purpose of the present patent document, is not limited merely to the specific example embodiments or alternatives of the foregoing description.