Interactive data retention and display pet ball launcher

Abstract

The invention relates to a novel interactive pet ball launcher wherein digital circuitry in the ball and launcher will wirelessly track and record throw data, allowing a User to view the data on a readout in the launcher handle, or to transfer the data to a smartphone or computer via wireless technology or a data dongle that connects via USB in the handle of the launcher.

Claims

1. An interactive data retention and display pet ball launcher comprising: a) an elongated flexible handle with a grip at one end and scoop portion at an opposing end wherein the handle has one end for receiving a data device and wherein the opposing end is the scoop portion having two opposing portions forming a generally ball-shaped recess to frictionally retain a ball until the handle is swung with force sufficient to release the ball from the scoop b) a receiving piece for a smartphone connected to the handle portion c) a removable data dongle located in the end of the handle portion for receiving and storing data d) a digital module with display located on the handle of the launcher e) a ball equipped with electronics for communicating to the launcher's digital module or a smart phone.

2. The interactive data retention and display pet ball launcher as in claim 1 wherein internal electronics in the ball transmit data to the receiving ball launcher or to a smartphone wherein the smartphone is attached by a user to the handle.

3. The interactive data retention and display pet ball launcher as in claim 1 wherein the handle is designed to comfortably fit a user's hand and wherein the scoop portion holds the ball via a friction fit until a user swings the handle with sufficient force that the ball overcomes the frictional retaining force of the scoop and is then launched from the scoop.

4. The interactive data retention and display pet ball launcher as in claim 1 wherein the receiving piece is located on the handle for receiving and securely holding most brands of smartphones.

5. The interactive data retention and display pet ball launcher as in claim 1 wherein the removable data dongle is located in a recessed slot at a tip of the launcher handle and wherein the dongle is removed from the recessed slot and allowing the transfer of its stored data via connection to a computer.

6. The interactive data retention and display pet ball launcher as in claim 1 wherein the digital module is integrated into the launcher handle and which displays collected throw data communicated from the transmitting ball.

7. The interactive data retention and display pet ball launcher as in claim 1 wherein internal electronic circuitry within the ball will communicate with the data dongle and provide readable data back to the handle's digital module.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) The invention is described in further detail by reference to six (6) drawings sufficient in detail to describe the invention in which:

(2) FIG. 1 shows the launcher with a ball leaving the scoop;

(3) FIG. 2 shows the launcher with a ball set into the scoop;

(4) FIG. 3 is a side view of the launcher with a ball set into the scoop;

(5) FIG. 4 is a front view of the launcher;

(6) FIG. 5 is an illustration of the launcher with both a Smartphone and a dongle attached; and

(7) FIG. 6 is an illustration of the launcher in use.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION, INCLUDING BEST MODES OF CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

(8) FIG. 1 shows the 10, with a ball 20 leaving the scoop 30. The scoop portion provides a friction fit for the ball and standard kinetics allow the ball to leave the scoop when the launcher is arced back and released forward. A digital data readout panel 40 is shown as integrated into the handle. This readout contains a receiver that can accept the data from the ball's transmitter and display the data on the panel. The ball receiver 50 is shown in phantom as it would reside within the ball for protection from landing, surface scraping and moisture to an extent.

(9) FIG. 2 is a simple illustration of the launcher 10 with a ball 20 fit into the scoop 30. Again, the ball's transmitter 50 is shown in phantom as it would reside within the ball for protection from landing, surface scraping and moisture to an extent. The digital readout panel 40 is again illustrated.

(10) FIG. 3 is a side perspective of the launcher 10 with a ball 20 nested in the scoop 30. Of note is the fit. The ball is friction fit into the scoop and when inertia is applied, the ball easily releases from the launcher.

(11) FIG. 4 is a simple front perspective of the launcher more clearly illustrating the scoop 30. A ball is inserted between the top and bottom sections of the scoop creating a friction fit. Release angle and force occurs dependent upon the User's launch trajectory and swing applied.

(12) FIG. 5 is an exaggerated view of a Smartphone 60 as affixed to the handle of the launcher. As the ball 20 is released, the sensor 50 in the ball will communicate with the Smartphone 60, or alternately the dongle 70 at the end of the handle. The digital readout 40 on the handle of the launcher can also display collected data, but is not removable as with the phone and dongle. The data recorded includes but is not limited to force or speed of the throw, distance of the throw, and time it takes the pet to retrieve the ball. Other data sets can obviously be included in this process.

(13) FIG. 6 is a simple illustration of a User 80 launching a ball 20 which contains the transmitting device 50. Data from the throw begins to be recorded as the pet 90 pursues the ball. Another embodiment of the present invention is that a pet's collar may also contain a transmitter which can record performance, and such data will be received by one of the methods disclosed herein. The Smartphone or the launcher handle receiver can collect data and that recorded data may be transferable via the dongle or wireless via the phone's technology if so equipped.