Patent Publication Number: US-11033791-B2

Title: Flip toy assembly with launcher device and projectile

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/337,638, filed on Oct. 28, 2016, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/247,942, filed on Oct. 29, 2015, both of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Throw and catch toys are well known to provide entertainment for both humans and animals. It would be beneficial to provide a throw and catch toy that can be used by a single person, multiple, people, or even a person and an animal, such as a dog. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. 
     Briefly, the present invention provides a flip toy assembly having a launcher having and a projectile that is launched and can be caught by the launcher. The launcher has an elongate handle. The handle has a top end and a bottom end, distal from the top end. A head is fixedly attached to the bottom end. A projectile has an apex having a first side and a second side. A first leg extends away from the first side of the apex and a second leg extends away from the second side of the apex. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Aspects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description, the appended claims, and the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals identify similar or identical elements. 
         FIG. 1  shows a side elevational view of a launcher/retrieval device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 1A  shows a side elevational view of the launcher/retrieval device shown  FIG. 1 , with a projectile according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention mounted thereon; 
         FIG. 2  shows an enlarged view of a head end of the launcher/retrieval device shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 2A  shows a sectional view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of the head end of the launcher/retrieval device shown in  FIG. 1 , with an exemplary projectile loaded thereon; 
         FIG. 2B  shows a sectional view of another alternative exemplary embodiment of the head end of the launcher/retrieval device shown in  FIG. 1 , with an alternative exemplary projectile loaded thereon; 
         FIG. 2BB  shows a sectional view of another alternative exemplary embodiment of the head end of the launcher/retrieval device shown in  FIG. 1 , with the projectile shown in  FIG. 2B  loaded thereon; 
         FIG. 2C  shows a sectional view of still another alternative exemplary embodiment of the head end of the launcher/retrieval device shown in  FIG. 1 , with still another alternative exemplary projectile loaded thereon; 
         FIG. 2CC  shows a sectional view of yet another alternative exemplary of the head end of the launcher/retrieval device shown  FIG. 1 , with projectile shown in  FIG. 2C  loaded thereon; 
         FIG. 2D  shows a sectional view of another alternative exemplary embodiment of the head end of the launcher/retrieval device shown in  FIG. 1 , with yet another alternative exemplary projectile loaded thereon; 
         FIG. 2DD  is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a launcher/retrieval device according to the present invention. They can be used with the projectile shown in  FIG. 2D ; 
       FIG.  2 DDD is a side elevational view of the launcher/retrieval device shown  FIG. 2DD ; 
         FIG. 3  shows a side elevational view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of a launcher/retrieval device according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 3A  shows a side elevational view of still another alternative exemplary embodiment of a launcher/retrieval device according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  shows a side elevational view of an exemplary embodiment of a projectile for use with any disclosed embodiment of the launcher/retrieval device according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 4A  shows a perspective view of yet another alternative exemplary embodiment of a projectile for use with any disclosed embodiment of the launcher/retrieval device according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 5  shows a side elevational view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of a projectile for use with any disclosed embodiment of the launcher/retrieval device according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 6  shows a side elevational view of another alternative exemplary embodiment of a projectile for use with any disclosed embodiment of the launcher/retrieval device according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 6A  shows a side elevational view of another alternative exemplary embodiment of a projectile for use with any disclosed embodiment of the launcher/retrieval device according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 7  shows a side elevational view of another alternative exemplary embodiment of a projectile for use with any disclosed embodiment of the launcher/retrieval device according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 8  shows a side elevational view of another alternative exemplary embodiment of a projectile for use with any disclosed embodiment of the launcher/retrieval device according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  shows a front elevational view of another alternative exemplary embodiment of a projectile for use with any disclosed embodiment of the launcher/retrieval device, with the projectile lying on the ground, according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 10  shows a front elevational view of still another alternative exemplary embodiment of a projectile for use with any disclosed embodiment of the launcher/retrieval device, with the projectile lying on the ground, according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 10A  shows a rear perspective view of still another alternative exemplary embodiment of a projectile for use with any disclosed embodiment of the launcher/retrieval device, with the projectile lying on the ground, according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 10B  shows a rear perspective view of the projectile shown in  FIG. 10A , with the projectile lying upside down on the ground; 
         FIG. 10C  shoes a front elevational view of still another alternative exemplary embodiment of a projectile for use with any disclosed embodiment of the launcher/retrieval device according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 11  shows a top plan view of a first method of using the launcher/retrieval device according to any exemplary embodiment of the present invention to pick up any of the projectiles according to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 12  shows a top plan view of a second method of using the launcher/retrieval device according to any exemplary embodiment of the present invention to pick up any of the projectiles according to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 13  shows a side elevational view of a launcher/retrieval device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, using an electrically powered light to illuminate the device; 
         FIG. 14A  is a right side perspective view of a frame that is used to catch projectiles according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 14B  is a left side perspective view of the frame shown in  FIG. 14A ; 
         FIG. 15  is a left side perspective view of a frame that is used to catch projectiles according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 16  is a right side perspective view of a frame that is used to catch projectiles according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 17  is a side elevational view of a head end of a launcher/retrieval device according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 18  is a side elevational view of another head end of a launcher/retrieval device according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 19  is a side elevational view of another head end of a launcher/retrieval device according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 20  is a side elevational view of another head end of a launcher/retrieval device according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 21  is a side elevational view of another head end of a launcher/retrieval device according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 22  is a bottom perspective view of a launcher/retrieval device according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 23  is a side elevational view of a launcher/retrieval device according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 24  is an enlarged bottom perspective view of the device of  FIG. 23 ; 
         FIG. 25  is a side perspective view of the device of  FIG. 23 , with a projectile from  FIG. 4  resting thereon; 
         FIG. 26  is a side elevational view of the device of  FIG. 25  with the projectile of  FIG. 4  connected thereto; 
         FIG. 27  is a side elevational view of a head end of a launcher/retrieval device according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 28  is a rear elevational view of the handle of the device of  FIG. 27 ; 
         FIG. 29  is a sectional view of the handle of  FIG. 28  taken along lines  29 - 29  of  FIG. 28 ; 
         FIG. 30  is a side elevational vie of a hook used with the handle of  FIG. 27 ; and 
         FIG. 31  is a sectional view of the hook of  FIG. 30  taken along lines  31 - 31  of  FIG. 30 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     In the drawings, like numerals indicate like elements throughout. Certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to be taken as a limitation on the present invention. The terminology includes the words specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof and words of similar import. The embodiments illustrated below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. These embodiments are chosen and described to best explain the principle of the invention and its application and practical use and to enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention. 
     Reference herein to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment can be included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments necessarily mutually exclusive of other embodiments. The same applies to the term “implementation.” 
     As used in this application, the word “exemplary” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, use of the word exemplary is intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion. 
     Additionally, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or”. That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims should generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. 
     Unless explicitly stated otherwise, each numerical value and range should be interpreted as being approximate as if the word “about” or “approximately” preceded the value of the value or range. 
     The use of figure numbers and/or figure reference labels in the claims is intended to identify one or more possible embodiments of the claimed subject matter in order to facilitate the interpretation of the claims. Such use is not to be construed as necessarily limiting the scope of those claims to the embodiments shown in the corresponding figures. 
       FIG. 1  shows a launcher/retrieval device  100  according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention that is shaped similar to a golf club, such as, for example, a putter. Device  100  includes a handle  110  having a top end  112 , a bottom end  114 , and a head  120  attached to bottom end  114 . Optionally, top end  112  can include a wrist strap (not shown) to prevent a user from inadvertently dropping or throwing launcher/retrieval device  100  during use. In exemplary embodiment, handle  110  extends for a length of about 27 inches, although those skilled in the art will recognize that handle  110  can extend for different lengths as well. Launcher/retrieval device  100  is used to launch and/or retrieve a projectile, such as, for example, any of the projectiles shown in any of  FIGS. 4-10C . 
       FIG. 1A  shows a projectile  150  (shown  FIG. 4 ) loaded on launcher/retrieval device  100 . While projectile  150  is shown with respect to launcher/retrieval device  100 , those skilled in the art will recognize that projectile  150  can be used with other embodiments of launcher/retrieval devices disclosed below, and, conversely, other projectiles can also be used with launcher/retrieval device  100  and the other embodiments of launcher/retrieval devices disclosed below. Launcher/retrieval device  100  is used to launch a projectile  150  in the air, either away from the user for another party to catch and/or retrieve with another launcher/retrieval device  100 , or proximate to the user for the user to catch on launcher/retrieval device  100 . Optionally, handle  110  can be torsionally twisted about a longitudinal axis to help correct the flight of projectile  150  in the event that projectile  150  travels in a direction oblique to its launch direction. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , head  120  includes a connector portion  122  that is connected to the bottom end  114  of handle  110 . A first free end  124  of head  120  extends in a first direction from connector portion  122  at an angle A of about 125°, although those skilled in the art will recognize that angle A can be more or less than 125°. In an exemplary embodiment, first free end  124  extends for a distance of about 7 inches, although those skilled in the art will recognize the first free end  124  can extend for a distance of more or less than about 7 inches. 
     A second free end  126  of head  120  extends in a second direction from connector portion  122  at an angle B of about 55°, although those skilled in the art will recognize that angle B can be more or less than 55°, such that a bottom end of head  120  extends in a generally flat, straight line between first free end  124  and second free end  126 . In an exemplary embodiment, second free end  126  extends for distance of about 1½ inches, although those skilled in the art will recognize that second free end  126  can extend for a distance of more or less than about 1½ inches. 
     First free end  124  includes a generally sloped upward end  130  that generally flattens to an intermediate portion  131  and then rises to a convex hump  132  before settling into a concave receiver  134  adjacent connector portion  122 . Second free end  126  sloped upward toward connector portion  122 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 2A , an alternative embodiment of a first free end  124 A that can be incorporated into launcher/retrieval device  100  is shown. First free end  124 A can have a concave top surface  122 A with relatively sharp edges  125 A,  126 A. 
     A projectile  150 A that can be used with launcher/retrieval device  100  having first free end  124 A has an apex  152 A having a lower surface  153 A that is convex in shape and corresponds with concave top surface  122 A, such that, when projectile  150 A is loaded onto first free end  124 A, apex  152 A nestles within top surface  122 A. Additionally, the junction between apex  152 A and arms  154 A and  156 A of projectile  150 A can be relatively sharp as well to correspond to sharp edges  125 A,  126 A on first free end  124 A. The concavity of top surface  122 A and the corresponding shape of apex  152 A can provide additional stability for projectile  150 A as projectile  150 A is cradled on first free end  124 A. 
     Similarly, referring to  FIG. 2B , another alternative embodiment of a first free end  124 B that can be incorporated into launcher/retrieval device  100  is shown. First free end  124 B can have a concave top surface  122 B with rounded convex edges  125 B,  126 B. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2BB , yet another alternative embodiment of a first free end  124 BB that can be incorporated into launcher/retrieval device  100  is shown. First free end  124 BB can have a concave bottom surface  123 BB with round or convex edges  127 BB,  129 BB. 
     A projectile  150 B that can be used with launcher/retrieval device  100  having first free end  124 B has an apex  152 B having a lower surface  153 B that is convex in shape and corresponds with concave top surface  122 B, such that, when projectile  150 B is loaded onto first free end  124 B, apex  152 B nestles within top surface  122 B. Additionally, the junction between apex  152 B and arms  154 B and  156 B of projectile  150 B can be rounded as well to correspond to rounded edges  125 B,  126 B on first free end  124 B. Similar to above, the concavity of top surface  122 B and the corresponding shape of apex  152 B can provide additional stability for projectile  150 B as projectile  150 B is cradled on first free end  124 B. Still similarly, referring to  FIG. 2C , still another alternative embodiment of a first free end  124 C that can be incorporated into launcher/retrieval device  100  is shown. First free end  124 C can have a convex top surface  122 C and projectile  150 C can have an apex  152 C that has a generally concave inner surface  153 C that corresponds to the surface contour of convex top surface  122 C. Similar to above, the convex top surface  122 C and the corresponding shape of apex  152 C can provide additional stability for projectile  150 C as projectile  150 C is cradled on first free end  124 C. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2CC , yet another alternative embodiment of a first free end  124 CC that can be incorporated into launcher/retrieval device  100  is shown. First free end  124 CC can have a convex bottom surface  122 CC. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2D , still another alternative embodiment of the first free end  124 D that can be incorporated into a launcher/retrieval device  100 D according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. First free end  124 D includes a longitudinal slot  125 D that extends at least partially along the length of first free end  124 D. A projectile  150 D can be shaped similarly to projectile  150 C, but with a central rib  151 D that is sized to fit into slot  125 D. As shown  FIG. 2D , slot  125 D extends along both the top surface and a bottom surface of first free end  124 D. 
     As shown  FIGS. 2DD  and  2 DDD, slot  125 D can extend the entire length of first free end  124 D, as well as at least partially along handle  110 D. Also, as shown FIG.  2 DDD, a slot  126 D can also extend along the top of second free end  127 D. The slots and corresponding central rib  151 D allow projectile  150 D to ride up along launcher/retrieval device  100 D, allowing the user to perform tricks with projectile  150 D. 
     Referring to  FIG. 3 , a second exemplary embodiment of a launcher/retrieval device  200  according to the present invention is shown. Launcher/retrieval device  200  is similar to launcher/retrieval device  100  discussed above with the addition of a hook  230  that extends rearward from handle  210 . Hook  230  includes a downward sloping face  232 . Optionally, hook  230  can also include an upward sloping face  233  that extends upwardly and away from handle  210  such that an apex  234  is formed at the intersection of downward sloping face  232  and upward sloping face  233 . Still optionally, hook  230  can include a top surface  236  that slopes downwardly and away from handle  210 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , a vertical space  238  is formed alongside handle  210  between second free end  226  and hook  230 . Vertical space  238  allows a projectile according to the present invention to be mounted on a second free end  226  and to allow movement of the projectile upward along handle  210  only until the projectile engages hook  230 , restricting the ability of the projectile to move farther vertically upward along handle  210  and potentially inadvertently strike the user or another party standing close to the user. Hook  230  can be located anywhere along the length of handle  210  above second free end  226 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 3A , a third exemplary embodiment of a launcher/retrieval device  300  according to the present invention is shown. Launcher/retrieval device  300  is similar to launcher/retrieval device  200  discussed above, the exception that hook  330 , which is similar to hook  230 , is reversed, resulting in a bottom surface  336  being sloped upwardly and away from handle  310  to deflect a projectile that may have been inadvertently thrust upwardly from second free end  326  away from the user. Optionally, hook  330  can be removable and reinstallable onto launcher/retrieval device  300  such that launcher/retrieval device  200  is formed. 
     Optionally, each of launcher/retrieval device  100 ,  200 ,  300  may include a plurality of voids or holes formed throughout. A first advantage of the presence of the voids is to reduce the total weight of launcher/retrieval device  100 ,  200 ,  300 . A second advantage of the voids, particularly in handles  110 ,  210 ,  310 , is to impart additional flexibility to handles  110 ,  210 ,  310 , which may provide the user with the ability to perform additional tricks, stunts, or maneuvers with launcher/retrieval device  100 ,  200 ,  300 . 
       FIGS. 4-10  show exemplary embodiments of projectiles that can be used with launcher/retrieval devices  100 ,  200 ,  300  according to the present invention. While exemplary projectiles are shown, those skilled in the art will recognize that other types of projectiles may be used within the scope of the present invention. 
     Referring to  FIG. 4 , a first exemplary embodiment of a projectile  150  according to the present invention is shown. Projectile  150  is retained on head  120  and launched by a user by flicking handle  110 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 4A , supports  170 ,  172  extend outwardly from either side of arm  154  and supports  174 ,  176  extend outwardly from either side of form  156 . Supports  170 ,  172 ,  174 ,  176  allow projectile  150  to stand upright. Optionally, supports  170 ,  172 ,  174 ,  176  can be constructed from glow sticks that allow projectile  150  to be seen in the dark. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, projectile  150  includes a generally flat apex  152  having a length that is about as wide as head  120 . A longitudinal centerline  153  bisects projectile  150 . Arms  154 ,  156  are generally curved to extend away from apex  152  and generally diverge away from centerline  153 . In an exemplary embodiment, material is removed from each of arms  154 ,  156 , forming holes  158 ,  160 , respectively. Holes  158 ,  156  assist in weight distribution to balance projectile  150 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , an alternative embodiment of a projectile  250  is shown. Projectile  250  includes a generally flat apex  252  having a length that is about as wide as head  120 . A longitudinal centerline  253  bisects projectile  250 . Arms  254 ,  256  are generally curved to extend away from apex  252  and generally divert away from centerline  253 . Instead of, or on addition to, holes  158 ,  156 , however, distal ends of arms  254 ,  256  include spheres  258 ,  260 , such as, for example, tennis balls, sponge balls, or other relatively soft material. 
     Still alternatively, apex  252  can be constructed from a rigid material, such as a high density plastic, while arms  254 ,  256  can be constructed from a soft material, such as a rubber, a sponge, or other similar material. Still alternatively, arms  234 ,  256  can also be constructed from a rigid material, and covered with a soft material. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6 , an alternative embodiment of a projectile  350  is shown. Projectile  350  includes a generally flat apex  352  having a length that is about as wide as head  120 . A longitudinal centerline  353  bisects projectile  250 . Arms  354 ,  356  are generally straight and extend away from apex  252  and generally parallel to centerline  253 . Arm extensions  358 ,  360  extend from their respective arms  354 ,  356 , away from longitudinal centerline  353 . Distal ends of arm extensions  358 ,  360  includes fierce  362 ,  364 , respectively. 
     While spheres  362 ,  364  are shown, those skilled in the art will recognize that distal ends of arm extensions  358 ,  360  can include other devices that provide a weight such as, for example projectile  350 A shown in  FIG. 6A , which includes annular members  362 A,  364 A, respectively, at the ends thereof. The weights at the end of the projectiles, distal from each apex, are used to balance the projectile when the projectile is seated on its respective launcher/retrieval device and to also balance the projectile when the projectile is in the air. 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , another alternative embodiment of a projectile  450  is shown. Projectile  450  includes a generally flat apex  452  having a length that is about as wide as head  120 . A longitudinal centerline  453  bisects projectile  450 . Similar to projectile  150 , arms  454 ,  456  are generally curved to extend away from apex  452  and generally diverge away from centerline  453 . In an exemplary embodiment, arms,  454 ,  456  are at least partially coated or covered with a soft material, such as, for example, a foam padding so that, in the event that projectile  450  strikes a person, projectile  450  has a low tendency to be able to injure the person. Additionally, the foam padding provide a soft grip for an animal, such as, for example, a dog, to pick up projectile  450  with its mouth after projectile  450  has been launched by launcher/retrieval device. 
       FIG. 8  shows still another alternative embodiment of a projectile  550 . Projectile  550  is similar to projectile  350 , with the exception that, at apex  552 , in addition to arms  554 ,  556  that extend generally parallel to a longitudinal centerline  553  in one direction, a second set of arms  558 ,  560  extend away from apex  552  in an opposing direction. Arm extensions  562 ,  564  extend from their respective arms  558 ,  560  away from longitudinal centerline  553 , and terminate in counterweights  566 ,  568 , respectively. Counterweights  566 ,  568  add balance to projectile  550  while projectile  550  is in flight. Additionally, counterweights  566 ,  568  also serve to lift apex  552  of the ground when projectile  550  itself is on the ground, making it easier to slide first free end  124  of head  120  underneath apex  552  to engage projectile  550  and lift projectile  550  from the ground. 
     In an alternative embodiment of any of the projectiles described above, a projectile  650 , shown in  FIG. 9  includes an apex  652  that has a narrow cross-section S 1 , that is smaller than the cross-section S 2  of arms  654 ,  656  such that, when projectile  650  is lying on the ground G, a space is formed between ground G and apex  652 , enabling first free end  124  of head  120  to be able to slide underneath apex  652  to engage projectile  650  and lift projectile  650  from ground G. 
     In still another alternative embodiment of any of the projectiles described above, a projectile  750 , shown in  FIG. 10 , includes pins  760 ,  762  that extend outwardly from each of the arms of projectile  750  (only arm  754  is shown). Pins  760 ,  762  are located proximate to apex  752  and serve to lift apex  752  away from ground G such that, when projectile  750  is on ground G, a space is formed between ground G and apex  752 , enabling first free end  124  of head  120  to be able to slide underneath apex  752  to engage projectile  750  and lift projectile  750  from ground G. 
       FIGS. 10A and 10B  show another alternative embodiment of a projectile  850  according to the present invention. Projectile  850  includes an apex,  852  and arms  854 ,  856 , respectively that extend downwardly and away from apex  852  and a central axis  853  in a curved fashion. Balls  858 ,  860  are provided on the end of each arm  854 ,  856 , respectively. As shown in  FIG. 10A , projectile  850  can land on the ground G with apex  852  extended away from ground G or, alternatively, as shown  FIG. 10B , projectile  850  can land on the ground G with apex  852  are engaged with the ground G. 
       FIG. 10C  shows still another alternative exemplary embodiment of a projectile  950  according to the present invention. Projectile  950  is similar in construction to projectile  150 , with the exception that projectile  950  includes at least one of fins  962 - 968  that extend from either or both of legs  952 ,  954 . Fins  962 ,  964  extend outwardly away from the other of leg  952 ,  954 , while fins  966 ,  968  extend inwardly toward the other of leg  952 ,  954 . Fins  962 - 968  can act as rudders and can be bent outwardly from the plane of the paper of  FIG. 10C  so that fins  962 - 968  can “steer” projectile  950  in a curved direction away from a plane of launch during flight. 
     Optionally, each of projectile  150 - 950  can have flexible arms that . . . . 
     Optionally, any one of the launcher/retrieval devices and/or projectiles disclosed in this application can be provided with a lighting source, such as a luminescent coating, on at least part of launcher/retrieval device and/or projectile to enable launcher/retrieval device and/or projectile to be seen in the dark. 
     Still alternatively, passages and/or channels can be provided in any launcher/retrieval device, such as, for example, along the length of handle  110  and/or head  120  to allow for the removable insertion of a light source, such as a glow stick. Further, passage and/or channels can also be provided in any projectile, such as, for example, along the length of arms  154 ,  156  to allow for the removable insertion of a glow stick. The use of glow sticks with the present invention allows the present invention to be used in the dark. The removability of glow sticks allows used close sticks to be removed while allowing new glow sticks to be inserted into launcher/retrieval device and/or projectile. 
     While glow sticks can be used to light up launcher/retrieval device  100  and/or projectile  150 , those skilled in the art will recognize that other light sources, such as, for example, LED lights  902 , as shown in  FIG. 13  can be used. LED lights  902  are powered by a battery  904  or other power source located in launcher/retrieval device  100  and/or projectile  150 . 
       FIG. 11  shows an exemplary method of picking a projectile  150  with launcher/retrieval device  100 . First free end  124  is slid underneath apex  152  in the direction of arrow C such that upward end  130  of free end  124  to lift apex  152  and allows head  120  to slide underneath apex  152 . Projectile  150  is retained on head  120  in concave receiver  134  between hump  132  and bottom end  114  of handle  110 . 
       FIG. 12  shows an exemplary embodiment of an alternative method of picking up projectile  150 . A second free end  126  is slid underneath apex  152  in the direction of arrow D until apex  152  engages bottom end  114  of handle  110 . Projectile  150  is lifted off of the surface by handle  110 , and the longitudinal axis of handle  110  is rotated such that apex  152  ends up in concave receiver  134  between hump  132  and bottom end  114  of handle  110 . 
     All of the exemplary embodiments of the launcher/retrieval device and the projectile are each constructed from a rigid material. An exemplary material can be a polymer, such as, for example, ultrahigh molecular weight (UHMW) polymer, although those skilled in the art will recognize that other materials can be used. Optionally, the apex of each projectile can include a magnet or a magnetically attractive material, while the concave receiver in each launcher/retrieval device can include the other of the magnet or magnetically attractive material, such that, when the projectile is being caught with handle  110 , the projectile will more naturally gravitate toward the concave receiver. 
     With projectile  150  nestled in receiver  134 , a user can use handle  110  to launch projectile  150  far away from the user, such as, for example, to another user with another handle  110 , for the other user to catch projectile  150  with handle  110  or, alternatively, an animal, such as a dog, to chase projectile  150  and retrieve projectile  150 . 
     In an alternative method, the user can merely flip projectile  150  into the air proximate to the user and then catch projectile  150  with handle  110 . 
     Any embodiment of launcher/retrieval device  100  using any disclosed launcher and/or projectile can be used to play a game similar to the known game of “Ladderball”. Referring to  FIGS. 14A and 14B , a frame  1001  can be provided that is used to “catch” a projectile  150 - 950  after being launched by launcher/retrieval device  110 . Frame  1001  can include a generally rectangular base  1010  that is placed on ground G. Although a generally rectangular base  1010  is shown, those skilled in the art will recognize that base  1010  can be generally any shape. 
     A tower  1020  extends upwardly from base  1010 . Tower  1020  includes vertical support  1022  and a plurality of arms  1030 ,  1032  that extend outwardly from vertical support  1022 . Arms  1030 ,  1032  are coplanar and extend generally in a plane that is coplanar with a plane of flight of a projectile  150 - 950  that is launched at tower  1020 . While two arms  1030 ,  1032  are shown, those skilled in the art will recognize that more or less than two arms  1030 ,  1032  can be provided. 
     Each arm  1030 ,  1032  includes a connected portion  1040  that extends generally orthogonal to vertical support  1022 . A generally “V-shaped” receiver  1042  extends outwardly from connected portion  1040  such that a projectile  150 - 950  can be “caught” in the crux of the “V”, as shown in  FIGS. 14A and 14B . 
     Optionally, a stabilizer  1050  can extend outwardly from vertical support  1022  and connect to a forward portion of base  1010 . A generally “V-shaped” receiver  1052  can be formed in stabilizer  1050  such that a projectile  150 - 950  can be “caught” in the crux of the “V”, as is also shown in  FIGS. 114A and 14B . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 15 and 16 , other configurations of frames  1100 ,  1200 , respectively, can be provided that can be used to “catch” projectiles  150 - 950  in a manner similar to frame  1001 . Each of frame  1100 ,  1200  is similar to frame  1001 , but frames  1100 ,  1200  each also has arms  1130 ,  1132  and  1230 ,  1232 , respectively, that have generally “U-shaped” receivers, such that each receiver  1130 ,  1132 ,  1230 ,  1232  extends in its own plane, generally parallel to the plane of arms  1030 ,  1032 . While two alternate embodiments of frames  1100 ,  1200  are shown, those skilled in the art will recognize that other combinations and configurations of frames can be used. 
     With respect to any of frames  1001 ,  1100 ,  1200 , points can be awarded for each successful “catch” of a projectile on a receiver, with different receivers being worth different point values. 
     An alternative embodiment of a head end of a launcher/retrieval device  1700  is shown in  FIG. 17 . Device  1700  includes a handle  1710  connected to a head  1720 . Handle  1710  can include a hook  1712  that extends downwardly at an acute angle λ relative to a length of handle  1710 . Hook  1712  can be located proximate to head  1720 . Hook  1712  can be used to prevent a user from inadvertently flipping a projectile along the back of handle  1710 , and possibly hitting and injuring himself/herself in the process. Optionally, hook  1712  can be omitted in its entirety. 
     Head  1720  includes a first head end  1722  that extends at an obtuse angle β relative to the length of handle  1710  and a second head end  1724  that extends at an acute angle α relative to the length of handle  1710 . Second head end  1724  is shorter than first head end  1722  and has a second end tip  1725  that terminates within a footprint of hook  1712 . 
     First head end  1722  and second head end  1724  are co-planar and have a common, generally flat bottom surface  1726  extending between second end tip  1725  and a first end tip  1728 . First head end  1722  has a top surface  1730  that is convex in shape between first end tip  1725  and an inflection point  1732  proximate to handle  1710 . Inflection point  1732  changes the curve of top surface  1730  from convex to concave between inflection point  1732  and handle  1710 . 
     Second head end  1724  has a top surface  1734  that is convex in shape between second end tip  1725  and an inflection point  1736  proximate to handle  1710 . Inflection point  1736  changes the curve of top surface  1734  from convex to concave between inflection point  1736  and handle  1710 . 
     The concave part of top surface  1730  proximate to handle  1710  provides a receiver for projectile  150  to rest in prior to launching projectile  150 . 
     Another alternative embodiment of a head end of a launcher/retrieval device  1800  is shown in  FIG. 18 . Device  1800  includes a handle  1810  connected to a head  1820 . Handle  1810  can include a hook  1812  that extends downwardly at an acute angle λ relative to a length of handle  1810 . Hook  1812  can be located proximate to head  1820 . Optionally, hook  1812  can be omitted in its entirety. 
     Head  1820  includes a first head end  1822  that extends at an obtuse angle β relative to the length of handle  1810  and a second head end  1824  that extends at an acute angle α relative to the length of handle  1810 . Second head end  1824  is shorter than first head end  1822  and has a second end tip  1825  that terminates within a footprint of hook  1812 . 
     First head end  1822  and second head end  1824  are co-planar and have a common, generally flat bottom surface  1826  extending between second end tip  1825  and a first end tip  1828 . First head end  1822  has a top surface  1830  that is convex in shape between first end tip  1825  and a first inflection point  1832 . Top surface  1830  transitions to a concave shape  1834  between first inflection point and a second inflection point  1836 . Top surface then transitions to a second convex shape between second inflection point  1836  and a third inflection point  1838 . Third inflection point  1838  changes the curve of top surface  1830  from convex to concave between inflection point  1838  and handle  1810 . 
     Second head end  1824  has a top surface  1840  that is convex in shape between second end tip  1825  and an inflection point  1842  proximate to handle  1810 . Inflection point  1842  changes the curve of top surface  1842  from convex to concave between inflection point  1842  and handle  1810 . 
     The contour of top surface  1830  allows projectile  150  to rest in concave shape  1834  to allow for shorter throws of projectile  150  and the concave shape between inflection point  1838  and handle  1810  allows for longer throws of projectile  150 . 
     Another alternative embodiment of a head end of a launcher/retrieval device  1900  is shown in  FIG. 19 . Device  1900  includes a handle  1910  connected to a head  1920 . Handle  1910  can include a hook  1912  that extends downwardly at an acute angle λ relative to a length of handle  1910 . Hook  1912  can be located proximate to head  1920 . Optionally, hook  1912  can be omitted in its entirety. 
     Head  1920  includes a first head end  1922  that extends at an obtuse angle β relative to the length of handle  1910  and a second head end  1924  that extends at an acute angle α relative to the length of handle  1910 . Second head end  1924  is shorter than first head end  1922  and has a second end tip  1925  that terminates in a reverse hook  1926  that extends upwardly toward handle  1910  at an acute angle δ relative to a horizontal axis of head  1920 . 
     First head end  1922  and second head end  1924  are co-planar and have a common, generally flat bottom surface  1927  extending between second end tip  1925  and a first end tip  1928 . First head end  1922  has a top surface  1930  that shown as similar to the top surface of device  100 , although those skilled in the art will recognize that top surface  1930  can be any contour disclosed herein. 
     Second head end  1924  has a top surface  1931  that is generally flat. Reverse hook  1926  includes a generally planar exterior surface  1932  extending between second tip end  1925  and hook end  1934 . Hook end  1934  has a generally pointed tip  1935 . An interior surface  1936  of hook  1926  has a generally concave shape at second head end  1924  and a generally planar surface  1938  proximate to hook end tip  1935 . 
     Reverse hook  1926  prevents projectile  150  from inadvertently being flipped upward toward the user when the user is performing tricks with projectile  150  on the back of handle  1910 . 
     Another alternative embodiment of a head end of a launcher/retrieval device  2000  is shown in  FIG. 20 . Device  2000  includes a handle  2010  connected to a head  2020 . Handle  2010  can be provided with or without a hook, such as hook  1912  shown in  FIG. 19 . 
     Head  2020  includes a first head end  2022  that extends at an obtuse angle β relative to the length of handle  2010  and a second head end  2024  that extends at an acute angle α relative to the length of handle  2010 . Second head end  2024  is shorter than first head end  2022  and has a second end tip  2025  that terminates in a reverse hook  2026  that extends upwardly toward handle  2010  at an acute angle δ relative to a horizontal axis of head  2020 . 
     First head end  2022  and second head end  2024  are co-planar and have a common, generally flat bottom surface  2026  extending between second end tip  2025  and a first end tip  2028 . First head end  2022  has a top surface  2030  that shown as similar to the top surface of device  100 , although those skilled in the art will recognize that top surface  2030  can be any contour disclosed herein. 
     Second head end  2024  has a top surface  2031  that is generally flat. Reverse hook  2026  includes a generally planar exterior surface  2032  extending between second tip end  2025  toward a hook end  2034 . Hook end  2034  has a generally convex curved tip  2035 . An interior surface  2036  of hook  2026  has a generally concave shape at second head end  2024  and a generally planar surface  2038  proximate to hook end tip  2035 . 
     Reverse hook  2026  prevents projectile  150  from inadvertently being flipped upward toward the user when the user is performing tricks with projectile  150  on the back of handle  2010 . 
     Another alternative embodiment of a head end of a launcher/retrieval device  2100  is shown in  FIG. 21 . Device  2100  includes a handle  2110  connected to a head  2120 . Handle  2110  can be provided with or without a hook, such as hook  1912  shown in  FIG. 19 . 
     Head  2120  includes a first head end  2122  that extends at an obtuse angle β relative to the length of handle  2110  and a second head end  2124  that extends at an acute angle α relative to the length of handle  2110 . Second head end  2124  is shorter than first head end  2122  and has a second end tip  2125  that terminates in a reverse hook  2126  that extends upwardly toward handle  2110  at an acute angle δ relative to a horizontal axis of head  2120 . 
     First head end  2122  and second head end  2124  are co-planar and have a common, generally flat bottom surface  2127  extending between second end tip  2125  and a first end tip  2128 . First head end  2122  has a top surface  2130  that shown as similar to the top surface of device  100 , although those skilled in the art will recognize that top surface  2130  can be any contour disclosed herein. 
     Second head end  2124  has a top surface  2131  that is generally flat. Reverse hook  2126  includes a generally planar exterior surface  2132  extending between second tip end  2125  toward a hook end  2134 . Hook end  2134  has a generally convex curved tip  2135 . An interior surface  2136  of hook  2126  has a generally concave shape between second head end  2124  and hook end tip  2135  such that reverse hook  2126  has a generally wave-like profile. 
     Reverse hook  2126  prevents projectile  150  from inadvertently being flipped upward toward the user when the user is performing tricks with projectile  150  on the back of handle  2110 . 
     An alternative embodiment of a launcher/retrieval device  2200  is shown in  FIG. 22 . Device  2200  can have a head end  2220  that is similar to any other launcher/retrieval device disclosed herein. 
     Device  2200  includes a handle  2210  connected to head  2220 . Handle  2210  can include a hook  2212  that is flexible enough to deflect toward or away from handle  2210  Hook  2212  can be located proximate to head  2220  and can be constructed from a low density polymer. Alternatively, a distal end  2214  can be constructed from a plurality of polymer strands  2216  that form a “brush”. 
     Hook  2212  can be used as a deterrent to discourage a user from trying to flip projectile  150  from the back side of handle  2210 . 
     An alternative embodiment of a launcher/retrieval device  2300  is shown in  FIGS. 23-25 . Device  2300  includes a handle  2310  connected to a head  2320 . Handle  2310  includes a hook  2312  that extends downwardly at an acute angle λ relative to a length of handle  2310 . Hook  2312  can be located proximate to head  2320 . 
     Hook  2312  includes at least one through opening  2314  that extends between a top surface  2316  and a bottom surface  2318  of hook  2310 . 
     Head  2320  includes a first head end  2322  that extends at an obtuse angle β relative to the length of handle  2310  and a second head end  2324  that extends at an acute angle α relative to the length of handle  2310 . Second head end  2324  is shorter than first head end  2322  and has a second end tip  2325  that terminates within a footprint of hook  2312 . 
     First head end  2322  and second head end  2324  are co-planar and have a common, generally flat bottom surface  2326  extending between second end tip  2325  and a first end tip  2328 . 
     Second head end  2324  includes at least one through opening  2326  located between handle  2310  and second end tip  2325 . An elastic strap  2340  extends between through opening  2314  and through opening  2326 . Strap  2340  includes a first knob  2342  extending from one end of strap  2340  and a second knob  2344  extending from a second end of strap  2340 . Knobs  2342 ,  2344  are generally cylindrical in shape with a diameter smaller than each of through openings  2314 ,  2326  but with a length longer than the diameter of through openings  2314 ,  2326 . 
     First knob  2342  can be inserted through opening  2314  and second knob  2344  can be inserted through opening  2326 , with strap  2340  extending through the gap between hook  2312  and second end  2324 , forming a closed loop between strap  2340 , second end  2324 , handle  2310 , and hook  2312 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 25 , projectile  150  can be inserted over second end  2324  with apex  152  resting on the top surface of second end  2324  so that strap  2340  prevents projectile  150  from falling off second end  2324  at second end tip  2325 . Strap  2340  can be removed from hook  2312  and second end  2324  prior to using device  2300 . 
     While projectile  150  can be stored on device  2300  as shown in  FIG. 25 , device  2300  extends in one plane, while projectile  150  extends in a plane generally orthogonal to that of device  2300 .  FIG. 26  shows an alternative storage method in which projectile  150  and a device  2600  are in the same plane, allowing both projectile  150  and device  2600  to be stored along a flat surface, such as a wall  50 , such that projectile  150  does not extend outwardly from wall  50 , away from device  2600 . 
     Device  2600  includes a handle  2610  and a hook  2612  having a hook tip  2614  extending downwardly away from handle  2610 . Device  2600  also includes a head  2620  having a first head end  2622  and a second head end  2624 , with a second end tip  2625 . Apex  152  of projectile  150  fits into a space between hook tip  2614  and second end tip  2625  such that legs  154 ,  156  of projectile  150  each engage one of hook tip  2614  and second end tip  2625  to support projectile  150  when device  2600  is mounted on a wall. 
       FIGS. 27-31  show an alternative embodiment of a device  2700  with a handle  2710  having a hook  2712  that can slide up and down a slot  2714  on back side of handle  2710 . Hook  2712  can slide down to the position shown in solid lines in  FIG. 27  where hook  2712  is proximate to second head end  2724  on head  2720 , forming a generally closed space  2726  that can be used to retain projectile  150 , and slide up to the position shown in broken lines in  FIG. 27  where hook  2712  is distal from second head end  2720 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 28 and 29 , slot  2712  has a generally tee-shaped cross section with a narrow opening  2716  and a wider groove  2718 . Referring to  FIGS. 30 and 31 , hook  2712  has a complementary stem  2720  extending from hook  2712 , with a tang  2722  extending from stem  2720 . Tang  2722  fits into groove  2718  and stem  2720  fits into opening  2716 . In an exemplary embodiment, hook  2712  slides along slot  2712  with close tolerances so that hook  2712  can be slid to a desired length along slot  2712  and released so that hook  2712  remains in that location along slot  2714 . 
     It will be further understood that various changes in the details, materials, and arrangements of the parts which have been described and illustrated in order to explain the nature of this invention may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as expressed in the following claims.