Patent ID: 7537508
Filing Date: 2009-05-26
Classification: A63H

Abstract:
1. A model rocket launching system in combination with a model rocket, said launching system comprising: a base unit provided to be placed on a stable horizontal surface to thereby provide a stable platform for launching said model rocket, said base unit including a first mixing container containing a combustible mixture; a first substantially hollow launch tube in fluid communication with said first mixing container, said first launch tube extending vertically upward from said base unit and terminating at a distal end, hollow tube having at least one opening to allow expanding gas to exit said first hollow launch tube; an electrically conductive spark element device operatively associated with said first launch tube; an electrical igniter provided to selectively ignite said combustible mixture in a controlled manner; and a single electrode disposed in said first mixing container and spaced from said spark element device so as to define a spark gap therebetween; said model rocket including a substantially hollow rocket body tube disposed about and extending along a substantial length of said first hollow launch tube and provided with an electrically conductive member; said model rocket further including a rocket conductive coupling device disposed within said substantially hollow rocket body tube and electrically connected to said electrically conductive member; said electrically conductive spark element device is electrically connected to said rocket conductive coupling device of said hollow rocket body tube when said model rocket is mounted over said first launch tube; said electrical igniter electrically connected to said single electrode and removably connected to said electrically conductive member of said model rocket so as to create an electrical spark between said single electrode spaced from said spark element device; wherein when said igniter ignites said combustible mixture, expanding combusted gas is forced through said first substantially hollow launch tube and forces said model rocket vertically from said first launch tube.