Patent ID: 7438068
Filing Date: 2008-10-21
Classification: A63B,F41B

Abstract:
1. A catapult apparatus for teaching principles of problem solving using applied statistics, Six Sigma, lean manufacturing and other process excellence techniques, the apparatus comprising: a base; a hub fixed to a position with respect to the base and removable from the base; a swing arm coupled to and rotatable about the hub from a first angle to a second angle; a holder fixed to a position with respect to the swing arm and adapted to hold a projectile; a spring coupled between a first coupling point fixed with respect to the base and a second coupling point on the swing arm; means for continuously varying and measuring one or more of the first coupling point, the second coupling point, the first swing arm angle, the second swing arm angle, the hub position with respect to the base and the cup position with respect to the swing arm; an arch member disposed about the hub; and one or more brackets adjustably mounted to the arch member to set one or more of the first angle and the second angle; wherein the arch member has a base that fits within a slot in the catapult base.