Patent Description:
Bowhunters and other archers use finely tuned archery equipment to improve performance. Various modifications and accessories to their equipment can improve the accuracy, efficiency, convenience, safety, and, in some cases, sound of their archery bows. Reduction of vibrations is one modification of frequent interest. For example, when a projectile, such as an arrow, is shot from the bow, the limbs, bowstring, and other connected elements of the bow will vibrate as the energy stored in the limbs and is transferred to the projectile. The vibrations can cause archer fatigue, can induce errant movements of the bow or projectile, can reduce the life of the equipment, and can cause unwanted noise, among other things. Accordingly, there is a constant need for improvements to various types of archery equipment that reduce or dampen vibrations.

<CIT> relates to an archery bow limb dampening system, and discloses an archery bow according to the pre-amble of the appended independent claims. <CIT> relates to a flexible string damper. <CIT> relates to an archery bow limb adjustment system. <CIT> relates to an archery bow limb support apparatus and method.

In accordance with the present invention, there is provided an archery bow as defined in either independent claim <NUM> or independent claim <NUM>. Embodiments of the present invention are defined in appended claims dependent on either independent claim <NUM> or independent claim <NUM>. One aspect of the present invention relates to an archery bow including a riser, a first limb, a second limb, and a bowstring. The first and second limbs are coupled to the riser. The bowstring extends between the first and second limbs. At least one of the riser, the first limb, the second limb, or the bowstring include a Non-Newtonian Material (NN material).

In some embodiments, a viscosity of the NN material can be configured to temporarily increase when a projectile is launched from the archery bow. Alternatively, the viscosity of the NN material can be configured to temporarily decrease when a projectile is launched from the archery bow. The NN material can be coupled to the riser in some embodiments. The first limb can include a first portion of the NN material and the second limb can include a second portion of the NN material. The first limb can define a length and a portion of NN material can extend along a majority of the length. The NN material can be coupled to a portion of the bowstring extending between the first limb and the second limb. The NN material can include a polymer. The archery bow can be a compound bow, a recurve bow, or a crossbow.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to an archery bow which includes a riser, a first limb, a second limb, a string, and an accessory component. The first limb is coupled to a first end of the riser. The second limb is coupled to a second end of the riser. The string extends between the first limb and the second limb. The accessory component is coupled to at least one of the riser, the first limb, the second limb, or the string. The accessory component includes a NN material.

In some embodiments, the NN material can have a viscosity configured to temporarily increase when the projectile is launched from the archery bow. The NN material can be disposed within a cavity formed by the shaft. The NN material can be a first portion of NN material and the projectile can further include a second portion of NN material disposed within the cavity. The first portion of NN material can be displaced from the second portion of NN material by a distance. The NN material can be disposed within the cavity at a distance from the proximal end of the shaft. The NN material can be disposed within the cavity at a distance from a distal end of the shaft. The shaft can include at least one of carbon fiber or aluminum alloy.

The above summary of the present invention is not intended to describe each embodiment or every implementation of the present invention. The Figures and the detailed description that follow more particularly exemplify one or more preferred embodiments.

The accompanying drawings and figures illustrate a number of exemplary embodiments and are part of the specification. Together with the present description, these drawings demonstrate and explain various principles of this disclosure. A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present invention can be realized by reference to the following drawings. In the appended figures, similar components or features can have the same reference label.

While the embodiments described herein are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, the exemplary embodiments described herein are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the instant disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the appended claims.

The present disclosure generally relates to increased performance of archery equipment. In one aspect of the present disclosure, a Non-Newtonian Material (NN material) can be affixed, molded, adhered, or otherwise incorporated into one or more components of an archery bow, an archery accessory, or a combination thereof. Incorporation of a NN material can reduce or eliminate vibration and/or sound resultant from launching a projectile (e.g., a bolt, an arrow, etc.) or provide other benefits, such as, increased durability. A Non-Newtonian (NN) material is a material that exhibits rate-sensitive characteristics relative to stress vs. strain properties depending on the rate of loading. Newtonian material exhibit characteristics with stress vs. strain properties which are not rate-sensitive and are approximated as constant across all loading rates. Non-Newtonian (NN) materials have traditionally been fluids. In a Non-Newtonian fluid, the relation between shear stress and the shear rate is non-linear and dependent on the rate of loading while a Newtonian fluid has a constant relation between the shear stress and shear rate, defined as the viscosity. Since Non-Newtonian (NN) material can be either a fluid, gel-like, foam-like, or plastic-like polymer in application, the term viscosity is used to identify the material property which expresses the magnitude of internal friction and resistance to change in shape or movement (deformation) of the material.

The NN material can have material attributes, such as viscosity, which vary based on a quantity of rate of stress (e.g., shear force) applied to the NN material. In other words, unlike Newtonian materials, NN materials can have a viscosity that is not independent of the rate of stress applied to the material. For example, the resistance to deformation of an NN material can increase or decrease an amount that correlates with a rate of force (shear, tensile, etc.) applied (loading rate) to the NN material. The attribute, such as the viscosity of the NN material, can have a nonlinear correlation with a rate of shear stress or rate of force applied to the NN material. Examples of NN materials can include any material currently available or otherwise produced having a viscosity that is dependent upon a rate of stress or load applied to the material. A static state is the slow rate of application of force to a material and can be used to describe loading rates similar to the action of an archer drawing a bow. A dynamic state is the fast rate of application of force to an object and can be used to describe loading rates similar to the action of firing a bow.

A few non-limiting examples of NN fluids are cornstarch suspended in water (e.g., oobleck), wall paint, toothpaste, ketchup, and blood. Some non-limiting examples of non-fluid NN materials can include Poron® <NUM>-<NUM> Polyurethane and D30® polymer. While only a limited number of specific examples of NN materials are expressly referenced, any NN materials which are currently existing or subsequently developed can be used to realize the aspects of this disclosure.

Some NN materials can be shear thickening wherein the viscosity increases as the rate of force (e.g., shear, tensile, etc.) is increased. For example, the viscosity of a shear thickening NN material can increase when the NN material undergoes a dynamic event (e.g., a projectile is launched from the archery bow). Alternatively, some NN materials are shear thinning wherein the viscosity decreases as the rate of force (e.g., shear, tensile, etc.) is increased. For example, the viscosity of a shear thinning NN material can decrease when the NN material undergoes a dynamic event (e.g., a projectile is launched from the archery bow). NN materials can be incorporated into the archery bow to alter the vibrational characteristics of the archery bow during and after a shot event (i.e., when a projectile is launched from the archery bow) relative to the state (e.g., dynamic and/or static) of the archery bow. For example, the NN material can reduce or eliminate at least one of high-frequency vibrations and low-frequency vibrations to improve the performance of the archery bow and shooting experience for the archer. A shear thickening material will resist deformation in a dynamic state. Shear thickening materials can be effective as an outer layer to protect against impact as the material will resist a localized high rate of deformation and spread it across a larger non-localized area. Shear thickening materials can also be effective at increasing the dynamic stiffness of a structure and altering the structure's natural frequency of response during a dynamic event. The NN material can act as a material which has a dynamic natural response frequency which is significantly different than the material's static natural response frequency. The difference in static and dynamic natural frequencies of the same object promotes an effective damping behavior which prevents the occurrence of resonance.

In some embodiments, a shear thinning NN material, a shear thickening NN material, or a combination thereof can be incorporated into one or more components of an archery bow to provide variable dampening which correlates to loads exerted on the one or more components. For example, the limbs, string, riser, another component of the archery bow, or a combination thereof can include NN material to reduce or eliminate vibration and/or sound resultant from launching a projectile. Additionally, or alternatively, the limbs, string, riser, another component of the archery bow, or a combination thereof can include NN material to reduce or eliminate damage resultant from an object contacting the archery bow. For example, a shear thickening NN material can be incorporated into the limbs of the archery bow to reduce or prevent limb splinters when the archery bow is dropped onto a hard surface or object (e.g., dropped from a tree stand onto a rock or log). As another example, a shear thickening NN material can be incorporated onto a string groove of a recurve limb to mitigate damage to the limb caused by the bowstring repeatedly impacting the string groove when a projectile is launched from the recurve bow.

The present description provides examples, and is not limiting of the scope, applicability, or configuration set forth in the claims. Thus, it will be understood that changes can be made in the function and arrangement of elements discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention which is defined by the appended claims, and various embodiments can omit, substitute, or add other procedures or components as appropriate. For instance, features described with respect to certain embodiments can be combined in other embodiments.

Referring now to the figures in detail, <FIG> shows an archery bow <NUM> according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The bow <NUM> is at a rest position (e.g., a brace position). The bow <NUM> can comprise a riser <NUM> from which one or more upper limbs <NUM> and one or more lower limbs <NUM> extend. The riser <NUM> can comprise a handle portion <NUM> (i.e., a grip), a sight window portion <NUM>, a roller guard or cable guard <NUM>, a string-stop damper <NUM>, and other parts and accessories commonly known in the art.

The upper limbs <NUM> can be connected to an upper cam <NUM>, and the lower limbs <NUM> can be connected to a lower cam <NUM>. A bowstring <NUM> (i.e., draw string) can extend across the length of the bow <NUM> between the upper cam <NUM> and the lower cam <NUM> when the bow <NUM> is positioned vertically upright in a normal shooting orientation. The terminal ends of the bowstring <NUM> can be attached to and held wrapped against the cams <NUM>, <NUM>, at least in the brace position, and the limbs <NUM>, <NUM> can be flexed to store energy and retain tension in the bowstring <NUM>. A first cable <NUM> and a second cable <NUM> can also be attached to and extend between the upper cam <NUM> and the lower cam <NUM>. Collectively, the first cable <NUM> and the second cable <NUM> can be referred to herein as the cables of the bow <NUM>. The first and second cables <NUM>, <NUM> can retain tension in the limbs <NUM>, <NUM> and cams <NUM>, <NUM> and can be controlled to adjust tension in the bowstring <NUM>, draw length of the bowstring <NUM>, and other tuning features of the bow <NUM>.

The figures illustrate example archery apparatuses that can be used in conjunction with the principles and teachings of the present disclosure. Thus, while the bow <NUM> is a compound bow, it will be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art that the components of the archery bow, accessories, and related methods and apparatuses included in embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to components and apparatuses in traditional bows, compound bows, recurve bows, crossbows, their accessories, and other related archery equipment. Similarly, archery equipment applying the teachings of the present disclosure does not need to implement all of the features of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the bow may not comprise a cable guard <NUM> or a string-stop damper <NUM>, so features associated with those accessories can be omitted from the bow.

When shooting an arrow, the tail end of the arrow can be nocked with the bowstring <NUM> at a nocking point while the bow <NUM> is in the rest position shown in <FIG>. The bowstring <NUM> can be drawn rearward to a full draw position, thereby partially unraveling the bowstring <NUM> from the outer grooves of the cams <NUM>, <NUM>. The archer can grip the handle portion <NUM> of the riser <NUM> and draw back the bowstring <NUM> (e.g., by using a well-known D-loop). As the limbs <NUM>, <NUM> flex inward and the cables <NUM>, <NUM> wind around the cams <NUM>, <NUM>, the cables <NUM>, <NUM> can slide along or can be in rolling contact with portions of the cable guard <NUM>, which can comprise at least one roller or other smooth support in contact with the cables <NUM>, <NUM> where they contact the cable guard <NUM>.

When the bowstring <NUM> is released, the potential/stored energy in the limbs <NUM>, <NUM> is released, and the bowstring <NUM> quickly accelerates back toward the rest position (shown in <FIG>) as it applies a shooting force to an end of the projectile (e.g., an arrow). As the limbs <NUM>, <NUM> release their energy, they spread apart, and the terminal ends of the bowstring <NUM> wrap around the cams <NUM>, <NUM>, and the cables <NUM>, <NUM> unwind from the cams <NUM>, <NUM>. A portion of the bowstring <NUM> can come into contact with the string-stop damper <NUM>, which can help dampen vibrations in the bowstring <NUM>, and the cables <NUM>, <NUM> can roll or slide against the cable guard <NUM> as the cams <NUM>, <NUM> move. Vibrations and reverberations in the bow <NUM> can dampen out, at least partially due to dampening provided by an NN material incorporated into one or more components of the bow <NUM>, and bow <NUM> can return to the brace position shown in <FIG>. In this process, the cams <NUM>, <NUM> and at least one roller can rotate relative to the limbs <NUM>, <NUM> or cable guard <NUM> of the bow <NUM>.

Vibration resultant from launching the projectile can negatively affect an archer's aim and accuracy, the structure and tuning of the bow, and the lifespan of the strings and other parts of the bow <NUM>. Vibration also contributes to the loudness of noise made by the shooting the bow <NUM>. Accordingly, among other benefits, aspects of the present disclosure relate to vibration dampening and related methods that can be used to address challenges faced by archers and archery products manufacturers.

<FIG> show various examples of limbs for archery bows which incorporate one or more NN materials to reduce or limit vibration of an archery bow. While these examples illustrate the one or more portions of NN material at particular positions within or on the limb(s), these examples should not be considered limiting as this disclosure anticipates NN material disposed in one or more locations anywhere on or within one or more limbs. <FIG> is an isometric view of a limb <NUM> of an archery bow, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the limb <NUM> can be a singular top or singular bottom limb of an archery bow (e.g., an archery bow with a single upper limb and a single lower limb). In other embodiments, the limb <NUM> can be one of a pair of limbs of an archery bow, such as, the upper limbs or lower limbs of the archery bow <NUM> shown in <FIG>.

In some embodiments, the limb <NUM> can include a proximal end <NUM>, a distal end <NUM>, and an intermediate portion <NUM> disposed between the distal and the proximal ends <NUM>, <NUM>. The proximal end <NUM> can be fastened, affixed, or otherwise coupled to a riser (e.g., riser <NUM>), for example, by a limb pocket or other component fastened to the riser. The distal end <NUM> can include a through-hole <NUM> or other feature which enable a cam (e.g., upper or lower cam <NUM>, <NUM>) to be rotatably coupled to the limb <NUM>. The limb <NUM> can include one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B disposed on or within the limb <NUM>. For example, the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can be disposed between layers of other materials that form the limb <NUM>, such as, between layers of fiberglass, carbon fiber, or another glass reinforced material.

In some embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can extend along the intermediate portion <NUM> of the limb <NUM>. For example, the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can extend a majority of a length L between the proximal end <NUM> and the distal end <NUM>. In other embodiments, the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B may not extend a majority of the length L between the proximal end <NUM> and the distal end <NUM>.

The one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can be offset or spaced a distance D<NUM> from the distal end <NUM> of the limb <NUM>. For example, the distance D<NUM> can be less than about <NUM> millimeters, between about <NUM> millimeters and about <NUM> millimeters, between about <NUM> millimeters and about <NUM> millimeters, between about <NUM> millimeters and about <NUM> millimeters, or greater than <NUM> millimeters. Alternatively, the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can be disposed flush with or at the distal end <NUM> of the limb <NUM>. Additionally, or alternatively, the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can be offset or spaced a distance D<NUM> from the proximal end <NUM> of the limb <NUM>. For example, the distance D<NUM> can be less than about <NUM> millimeters, between about <NUM> millimeters and about <NUM> millimeters, between about <NUM> millimeters and about <NUM> millimeters, between about <NUM> millimeters and about <NUM> millimeters, or greater than <NUM> millimeters. Alternatively, the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can be disposed flush with or at the proximal end <NUM> of the limb <NUM>. In some embodiments, the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can be disposed nearer the distal end <NUM> of the limb <NUM> than the proximal end <NUM> of the limb <NUM>. Alternatively, the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can be disposed nearer the proximal end <NUM> of the limb <NUM> than the distal end <NUM> of the limb <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the limb <NUM> can form a first surface <NUM> that is in tension when the limb <NUM> is under a load and a second surface <NUM> that is in compression when the limb <NUM> is under a load. One or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can be disposed on one or more of the first and second surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> (i.e., adhered or otherwise affixed to one or both of the first and second surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>). Additionally, or alternatively, one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can be disposed between the first and second surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, the limb <NUM> can be formed from distinct layers of material that are adhered or otherwise affixed to form the limb <NUM>. One or more portions of the NN material can be disposed between the distinct layers of material that form the limb <NUM>. In some embodiments, the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can be disposed nearer the first surface <NUM> of the limb <NUM> than the second surface <NUM> of the limb <NUM>. Alternatively, the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can be disposed nearer the second surface <NUM> of the limb <NUM> than the first surface <NUM> of the limb <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can be disposed within or on the limb <NUM>, such that, the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B are symmetrical about a centerline CL extending longitudinally along the center of the limb <NUM>. The centerline CL can be an axis or a plane that extends from the proximal end <NUM> to the distal end <NUM> of the limb <NUM>. The centerline CL is positioned between the longitudinal sides of the limb <NUM>. Longitudinal symmetry of the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B about the centerline CL can be beneficial to limit or prevent the limb from twisting or torqueing along the centerline CL while under load. While the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B are illustrated as two distinct portions extending on either side of the centerline CL in <FIG>, a single portion of NN material can alternatively, or additionally, be incorporated into the limb (see <FIG>). Moreover, while the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B are illustrated as two distinct portions extending side by side in <FIG>, two or more portions of NN material extending sequentially (one after the other) along the centerline CL can alternatively, or additionally, be incorporated into the limb. Alternatively, the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can be purposefully non-symmetric with respect to the centerline CL so as to create a dynamic balancing offset of undesirable torque induced in the cam and/or limb due to shifting of tensions from cables (offset relative to a central point between the limbs) to the bowstring (centered between the limbs).

While the limb <NUM> is under load, a viscosity of the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can vary, such that the NN material better absorbs vibrations resultant launching a projectile from the bow. In other words, the one or more portions of NN material 210A, <NUM>0B can have a first viscosity prior to the projectile being launched from the bow and have a second viscosity immediately after the projectile is launched from the bow. The variance between the first viscosity and second viscosity can be directly related to loading rates of forces or loading rates of stresses applied to the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B resultant from vibrations generated by launching the projectile. In some embodiments, the first viscosity can be greater than the second viscosity. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the first viscosity can be less than the second viscosity. This variance in viscosity of the one or more portions of NN material 210A, 210B can better dampen vibrations to reduce or eliminate the vibration and/or sound resultant from launching a projectile from the bow.

<FIG> is an isometric view of a pair of limbs 300A, 300B of an archery bow, according to some embodiments. Each limb of the pair of limbs 300A, 300B can be similar to, and can include some or all of, the features of the limb <NUM>. For example, each limb of the pair of limbs 300A, 300B can include a proximal end 302A, 302B, a distal end 304A, 304B, and an intermediate portion 306A, 306B disposed between the distal end 302A, 302B and the proximal end 304A, 304B. The respective distal ends 304A, 304B can include respective through-holes 308A, 308B or other features which enable a cam (e.g., upper or lower cam <NUM>, <NUM>) to be rotatably coupled between the limbs 300A, 300B. Each of the limbs 300A, 300B can include a portion of NN material 310A, 310B. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the respective portions of NN material 310A, 310B can be adhered, coupled, or otherwise affixed to a first surface 312A, 312B of the limb (e.g., a surface under tension while the limb is loaded). Additionally, or alternatively, the respective portions of NN material 310A, 310B can be adhered, coupled, or otherwise affixed to a second surface 314A, 314B of the limb (e.g., a surface in compression while the limb is loaded).

While the portion of NN material 310A is illustrated at a particular location on the intermediate portion 306A of the limb 300A with respect to the proximal and distal ends 302A, 304A, the portion of NN material 310A can be disposed at any distance (e.g., distances D<NUM>, D<NUM> shown in <FIG>) with respect to the proximal and distal ends 302A, 304A. Similarly, the portion of NN material 310B can be disposed at any distance (e.g., distances D<NUM>, D<NUM> shown in <FIG>) with respect to the proximal and distal ends 302B, 304B of limb 300B. In some embodiments, the portions of NN material 310A, 310B can be disposed within or on the respective limbs 300A, 300B, such that, the one or more portions of NN material 310A, 310B are symmetrical about a centerline (see centerline CL of <FIG>) extending longitudinally along the center of each of the limbs 300A, 300B. In some embodiments, the portion of NN material 310A can be identically shaped, sized, and positioned on limb 300A as the portion of NN material 310B disposed on limb 300B, such that, the portions of NN material 310A, 310B are symmetrical or mirrored when the limbs 300A, 300B are coupled to an archery bow.

While each of the portions of NN material 310A, 310B are shown as singular or unitary pieces of material in <FIG>, one or both of the portions of NN material 310A, 310B can be formed of multiple distinct pieces of NN material that are disposed on the limb 300A, 300B. For example, each of the multiple distinct pieces of NN material can be layer, placed side-by-side, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, or additionally, each of the multiple distinct pieces of NN material can be spaced apart from one another (e.g., separated by a Newtonian material or an air gap). The NN material can provide dynamic dampening which varies relative to stresses or forces exerted on the one or more components having NN material. For example, the limbs, another component of the archery bow, or a combination thereof can include NN material to reduce or eliminate vibration and/or sound resultant from launching a projectile. Additionally, or alternatively, the NN material can reduce or mitigate damage resultant from an object contacting the archery bow. For example, a shear thickening NN material can be incorporated into the limbs or riser of the archery bow to reduce or prevent damage from an impact (localized dynamic external force - e.g., dropping the bow, transportation hazards, etc.).

<FIG> show a side view and a detailed side view of a limb <NUM> of an archery bow, according to some embodiments. The limb <NUM> can be similar to, and can include some or all of, the features of the limbs <NUM>, 300A, 300B. For example, the limb <NUM> can include a proximal end <NUM> a distal end <NUM>, and an intermediate portion <NUM> disposed between the distal end <NUM> and the proximal end <NUM>. The distal end <NUM> can include a through-hole <NUM> or other feature which enables a cam (e.g., upper or lower cam <NUM>, <NUM>) to be rotatably coupled to the limb <NUM>. The limb <NUM> can include first and second portions of NN material 410A, 410B incorporated as layers within the limb <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the first and second portions of NN material 410A, 410B can be adhered, coupled, or otherwise affixed between other layers of material (layers 412A, 412B, 412C) of the limb <NUM> (e.g., adhered between layers of the limb <NUM> formed from fiberglass or another material). Each of the portions of NN material 410A, 410B can extend continuously between the proximal and distal ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the limb <NUM>. Alternatively, one or more of the portions of NN material 410A, 410B can extend discontinuously between the proximal and distal ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the limb <NUM>. For example, the portion of NN material 410A can be formed from two or more distinct pieces of NN material that are evenly spaced between the proximal and distal ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the limb <NUM>.

<FIG> show a side view and a detailed side view of a limb <NUM> of an archery bow, according to some embodiments. The limb <NUM> can be similar to, and can include some or all of, the features of the limbs <NUM>, 300A, 300B, <NUM>. For example, the limb <NUM> can include a proximal end <NUM> a distal end <NUM>, and an intermediate portion <NUM> disposed between the distal end <NUM> and the proximal end <NUM>. The distal end <NUM> can include a through-hole <NUM> or other feature which enables a cam (e.g., upper or lower cam <NUM>, <NUM>) to be rotatably coupled to the limb <NUM>. The limb <NUM> can include first and second portions of NN material 510A, 510B incorporated within the limb <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the first and second portions of NN material 510A, 510B can be adhered, coupled, or otherwise affixed between other layers of material (layers 512A, 512B, 512C) of the limb <NUM> (e.g., adhered between layers of the limb <NUM> formed from fiberglass or another Newtonian material). Each of the portions of NN material 510A, 510B can extend only a portion of the length L extending between the proximal and distal ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the limb <NUM>. For example, each of the portions of NN material 510A, 510B can extend less than half or less than a quarter of the length L extending between the proximal and distal ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the limb <NUM>. Alternatively, each of the portions of NN material 510A, 510B can extend more than half or more than three-quarters of the length L extending between the proximal and distal ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the limb <NUM>.

<FIG> is an isometric view of a pair of limbs 600A, 600B of an archery bow, according to some embodiments. Each limb of the pair of limbs 600A, 600B can be similar to, and can include some or all of, the features of the limb <NUM>, 300A, 300B, <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, each limb of the pair of limbs 600A, 600B can include a proximal end 602A, 602B, a distal end 604A, 604B, and an intermediate portion 606A, 606A disposed between the distal end 602A, 602B and the proximal end 604A, 604B. The respective distal ends 604A, 604B can include respective through-holes 608A, 608B or other features which enable a cam (e.g., upper or lower cam <NUM>, <NUM>) to be rotatably coupled between the limbs 600A, 600B.

In some embodiments, an accessory component (e.g., a damping member <NUM>) can be coupled to or otherwise contact at least one of the limbs 600A, 600B. The damping member <NUM> can contact each of the limbs 600A, 600B to dampen vibrations resultant from launching a projectile from the archery bow. The damping member <NUM> can be formed using a NN material which has a viscosity that varies relative to rates of forces or rates of stresses applied to the damping member <NUM>. The damping member <NUM> can include first and second apertures 612A, 612B sized and shaped to enable each limb 600A, 600B to extend through the dampening member <NUM>. Alternatively, or additionally, the damping member <NUM> can be adhered, fastened, molded, tied, clipped, or otherwise coupled to one or both of the limbs 600A, 600B. The damping member <NUM> can act as a tether or link which stiffens when a stress or force is applied, such that, the limbs 600A, 600B are effectively or substantially interlocked and flex as a singular structure to resist torsion or twisting. However, prior to launching a projectile (e.g., when the archery bow is in a static state), the damping member <NUM> can be relatively less rigid or less stiff, such that, each of the limbs 600A, 600B can flex and bend independently of one another.

In some embodiments, the damping member <NUM> can be held in contact with one or both of the limbs 600A, 600B by a support structure (not shown) extending from a riser (e.g., riser <NUM>) or a pocket coupled to the riser. While the damper member <NUM> is illustrated as cubic having a rectangular cross-sectional shape, the damper member <NUM> can form any geometric shape or non-geometric shape having any geometric or non-geometric cross-sectional shape. While the damping member <NUM> is illustrated as contacting particular locations on the intermediate portions 606A, 606B of the limbs 600A, 600B with respect to the proximal ends 602A, 602B and distal ends 604A, 604B, the damping member <NUM> can be disposed at any distance (e.g., distances D<NUM>, D<NUM> shown in <FIG>) with respect to the proximal ends 602A, 602B and distal ends 604A, 604B.

While the damping member <NUM> is shown as singular or unitary piece of NN material in <FIG>, the damping member <NUM> can be formed of multiple distinct pieces of NN material that are molded, adhered, fastened, or otherwise coupled together. Alternatively, or additionally, the damping member <NUM> can be formed from a combination of NN material and Newtonian material, such that, only a portion of the damping member <NUM> has a viscosity that varies relative to forces or stress applied to the damping member <NUM>. For example, the damping member <NUM> can be co-molded using NN material and Newtonian material.

<FIG> is an isometric view of the pair of limbs 600A, 600B including an accessory component (e.g., a damping member <NUM>) coupled to or otherwise contacting at least one of the limbs 600A, 600B. The damping member <NUM> can contact each of the limbs 600A, 600B to dampen vibrations resultant from launching a projectile from the archery bow. The damping member <NUM> can be formed using a NN material which has a viscosity that varies relative to a rate of force or rate of stress applied to the damping member <NUM>. The damping member <NUM> can be similar to, and can include some or all of, the features of the damping member <NUM>. For example, the damping member <NUM> can include first and second apertures 612A, 612B sized and shaped to enable each limb 600A, 600B to extend through the dampening member <NUM>. Alternatively, or additionally, the damping member <NUM> can be adhered, fastened, molded, tied, clipped, or otherwise coupled to one or both of the limbs 600A, 600B. The damping member <NUM> can act as a tether or link which stiffens when a stress or force is applied, such that, the limbs 600A, 600B are effectively or substantially interlocked and flex as a singular structure to resist torsion or twisting. However, prior to launching a projectile (e.g., when the archery bow is in a static state), the damping member <NUM> can be relatively less rigid or less stiff, such that, each of the limbs 600A, 600B can flex and bend independently of one another.

Unlike the damping member <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the damping member <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> can contact non-symmetrical locations on the intermediate portions 606A, 606B of the limbs 600A, 600B with respect to the proximal ends 602A, 602B and distal ends 604A, 604B. In other words, the damping member <NUM> can contact the limb 600A at a first distance from the proximal end 602A while the damping member <NUM> can contact the limb 600B at a second distance from the proximal end 602B. The first and second distances can be different, such that, the damping member <NUM> affects the movement of each limb 600A, 600B differently when a projectile is launched from the archery bow. Contacting the limbs 600A, 600B at non-symmetrical locations can alter movement characteristics of one or both limbs 600A, 600B to increase performance of the archery bow. For example, altering the movement characteristics of one or both limbs 600A, 600B can offset undesirable torque induced in the cam and/or limb due to shifting of tensions from cables (offset relative to a central point between the limbs) to the bowstring (centered between the limbs).

While the damping member <NUM> is shown as singular or unitary piece of NN material in <FIG>, the damping member <NUM> can be formed of multiple distinct pieces of NN material that are molded, adhered, fastened, or otherwise coupled together. Alternatively, or additionally, the damping member <NUM> can be formed from a combination of NN material and Newtonian material, such that, only a portion of the damping member <NUM> has a viscosity that varies relative to loading rates of forces or stresses applied to the damping member <NUM>. For example, the damping member <NUM> can be co-molded using NN material and Newtonian material.

While <FIG> described various example embodiments where NN materials were incorporated into or on one or more limbs of the archery bow, other components of the archery bow, such as, the bowstring, cables, riser, sight, stabilizer, quiver, rest, or other component can additionally, or alternatively, include a NN material or an accessory component incorporating a NN material. In some embodiments, one or more accessory components incorporating NN material can be adhered, fastened, clipped, crimped, molded, welded, bonded, inserted, or otherwise affixed to one or more components of the archery bow. For example, one or more accessory components incorporating NN material can be fastened or otherwise coupled to an external surface of a riser. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more portions of NN material can be disposed within one or more cavities formed within a riser having a hollow tubular structure, such as, a riser formed from one or more carbon fiber tubes. The one or more portions of NN material can mitigate or reduce vibration resultant of launching a projectile from the archery bow.

<FIG> is a detail view of a portion of an archery bow <NUM>, according to some embodiments. The archery bow <NUM> can be substantially similar to, and can include some or all of, the features of the archery bow <NUM>. For example, the archery bow <NUM> can include a riser <NUM>, a limb <NUM>, an upper cam <NUM>, a first cable <NUM>, a second cable <NUM>, and a bowstring <NUM>. The archery bow <NUM> can include one or more string dampers <NUM> coupled to the bowstring <NUM> and configured to reduce or mitigate vibration resultant from launching a projectile from the archery bow <NUM>. The string damper <NUM> can be at least partially formed from a NN material, such that, a viscosity of the string damper <NUM> can vary relative to a rate of force or rate of stress applied to the string damper <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the one or more string dampers <NUM> can be at least partially formed of a NN material, such as, a polymer or Non-Newtonian fluid (NN fluid). For example, the string damper <NUM> can be formed from an outer container or vessel at least partially filled within an NN fluid and subsequently coupled or affixed to the bowstring <NUM>. In some embodiments, the NN material (e.g., a shear thickening NN fluid) incorporated into the string damper <NUM> can become rigid or otherwise have a relatively higher viscosity when a high rate of stress or high rate of forces are induced on the string damper <NUM> (e.g., when a projectile is launched from the archery bow <NUM>) to cause the portion of the bowstring <NUM> adjacent the string damper <NUM> to resist bending and deformation. Alternatively, the NN material (e.g., a shear thinning NN fluid) incorporated into the string damper <NUM> can become flexible or otherwise have a relatively lower viscosity when stress or forces are induced on the string damper <NUM> (e.g., when a projectile is launched from the archery bow <NUM>). The non-linear correlation between viscosity and stress or force of the string damper <NUM> can be beneficial, for example, in mitigating or reducing vibrations resultant of a projectile being launched from the archery bow <NUM>. For example, a temporarily rigid or stiff string damper <NUM> can cause at least a portion of the bowstring <NUM> to resist bending and deformation immediately after the projectile is launched from the bowstring <NUM>.

The string damper <NUM> can be disposed anywhere along the section of the bowstring <NUM> extending between the upper cam <NUM> and the lower cam (now shown). For example, as shown in <FIG>, the string damper <NUM> can be disposed on the bowstring <NUM> near the upper cam <NUM>. Alternatively, or additionally, the string damper <NUM> can be disposed on the bowstring <NUM> near a lower cam (not shown) of the archery bow <NUM>. The string damper <NUM> can form any geometric or non-geometric shape. In some embodiments, the string damper <NUM> can extend parallel to the bowstring <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In other embodiments, the string damper <NUM> can extend perpendicular to the bowstring <NUM>. While the string damper <NUM> is shown as singular or unitary piece of NN material in <FIG>, the string damper <NUM> can be formed of multiple distinct pieces of NN material that are molded, adhered, fastened, or otherwise coupled together. Alternatively, or additionally, the string damper <NUM> can be formed from a combination of NN material and Newtonian material, such that, only a portion of the string damper <NUM> has a viscosity that varies relative to rate of forces or rate of stress applied to the string damper <NUM>. For example, the string damper <NUM> can be co-molded using a combination of an NN material and a Newtonian material.

In some embodiments, the string damper <NUM> can be crimped around the bowstring <NUM> to couple the string damper <NUM> to the bowstring <NUM>. In some embodiments, the string damper <NUM> can include one or more apertures which enable the bowstring <NUM> to extend through the string damper <NUM> to couple the string damper <NUM> to the bowstring <NUM>. Alternatively, or additionally, the string damper <NUM> can be adhered, fastened, molded, tied, clipped, or otherwise coupled to the bowstring <NUM>. While the string damper <NUM> is shown in <FIG> as being coupled to the bowstring <NUM>, one or more string dampeners incorporating NN material can additionally, or alternatively, be affixed to the first cable <NUM> and/or the second cable <NUM>.

NN materials can be additionally, or alternatively, incorporated into one or more of the cams (e.g., upper cam <NUM> and lower cam <NUM> shown in <FIG>). As shown in <FIG>, the upper cam <NUM> can include a string track <NUM> extending around a periphery of the upper cam <NUM>. When the archery bow is drawn and released by an archer, the bowstring <NUM> can be let out of the string track <NUM> and subsequently taken up by the string track <NUM>. The string track <NUM> can define a depth which partially receives the bowstring <NUM>. In other words, the string track <NUM> can have a diameter that sufficiently catches and retains the bowstring <NUM> to prevent the bowstring <NUM> from derailing or unintentionally exiting the string track <NUM>. The string track <NUM> can be at least partially supported by one or more spokes or structural members 720A, 720B, 720C of the upper cam <NUM>. The one or more structural members 720A-720C can define apertures or through-holes within the upper cam <NUM>, such that, the one or more structural members 720A-720C generally extend radially between an axis of rotation <NUM> of the upper cam <NUM> and the string track <NUM>. While the structural members 720A-720C are depicted as a spoke system, the structural members 720A-720C can be formed as any other support structure, for example, a hexagonal support structure or other support structure.

The one or more structural members 720A-720C can prevent the upper cam <NUM> from bending or breaking from significant loading induced on the upper cam <NUM> when an arrow is launched from the archery bow. For example, when the bowstring is released and the archery bow transitions from a fully drawn state to a brace state (i.e., the state shown in <FIG>), the upper cam <NUM> is abruptly prevented from continued rotation by the cables <NUM>, <NUM> and the bowstring <NUM>. This abrupt stop can induce vibrations and other forces into the archery bow which can cause archer fatigue, can induce errant movements of the bow or projectile, can reduce the life of the archery bow, and can generate unwanted noise.

In some embodiments, one or more of the structural members 720A-720C can be entirely or partially formed from an NN material. One or more structural members 720A-720C formed from one or more types of NN material can reduce or eliminate at least one of high-frequency vibrations and low-frequency vibrations to increase the longevity of the archery bow, improve the performance of the archery bow, and improve the shooting experience for the archer. For example, one or more structural members 720A-720C can be formed from a shear thickening NN material which has a stiffness that correlates to a change in the rate of forces applied to the upper cam <NUM>.

Additionally, or alternatively, one or more portions of NN material can be incorporated into other elements of one or more of the cams. <FIG> is a detail view of a portion of an archery bow <NUM> including a NN material incorporated as a damper <NUM> into the upper cam <NUM>. The damper <NUM> can be sized and shaped to fit within a recess or aperture formed within the upper cam <NUM>. In some embodiments, a portion of the damper <NUM> can be disposed within the string track <NUM> and contact the bowstring <NUM>. For example, the damper <NUM> can be disposed within a recess or through-hole that is in fluid communication with the string track <NUM>, such that, a portion of the damper <NUM> extends from the recess or through-hole into the string track <NUM>.

While the damper <NUM> is depicted as being disposed at or near a rear-ward lobe <NUM> of the upper cam <NUM>, one or more dampers <NUM> can be disposed anywhere on the upper cam <NUM> in other embodiments. For example, one or more dampers <NUM> can be disposed within a recess or through-hole formed by any other element of the upper cam <NUM> (e.g., the string track <NUM>, the one or more structural members 720A-720C, apertures 728A-728C, slots 730A, 730B, a combination thereof, etc.). Additionally, or alternatively, the damper <NUM> can be adhered, fastened, tied, molded, or otherwise coupled to an element of the upper cam <NUM>, such as, the one or more support members 720A-720C.

<FIG> is a detail view of a portion of an archery bow <NUM> including a NN material <NUM> incorporated as the lobe <NUM> of the upper cam <NUM>. The NN material <NUM> can be adhered, fastened, welded, molded, or otherwise coupled to the upper cam <NUM>. While the NN material <NUM> is shown in a particular positon on the upper cam <NUM> and having a particular shape in <FIG>, the NN material <NUM> can be disposed anywhere on the upper cam <NUM> and define any shape. Moreover, all of the principles discussed herein are equally applicable to a lower cam (e.g., lower cam <NUM> shown in <FIG>).

In some embodiments, the NN material <NUM> can form or define a portion of the string track <NUM>, such that, a section of the bowstring <NUM> comes into contact with the NN material <NUM> when a projectile is launched from the archery bow. For example, a section <NUM> of the bowstring <NUM> can slap or impact the NN material <NUM> when the archery bow reaches a brace condition (see <FIG>) and the projectile is launched from the bowstring <NUM>. This slap or impact can exert a significant and near-instantaneous force on the NN material <NUM> to cause the NN material <NUM> to rapidly increase in stiffness or rigidity to better absorb the impact and reduce or prevent damage caused by the impact. Unlike a Newtonian material, which can fail upon impact of the bowstring <NUM> (e.g., degrade, break, tear, cut, deform, etc.), the NN material <NUM> can have a resistance to deformation that increase at a rate that correlates with a rate of force generated by the impact of the section <NUM> of the bowstring <NUM> upon the NN material <NUM>. Even if a relatively rigid Newtonian material were substituted for the NN material <NUM>, the Newtonian material would be prone to crack and break after repeated use of the archery bow. Moreover, the constantly rigid Newtonian material would not dynamically dampen or absorb vibration generated by the impact and other components of the archery bow could fail as a result.

While limbs, bowstrings, cables, projectiles, and archery targets incorporating NN material were each described in <FIG>, these are just a few non-limiting examples of many different types of archery equipment, products, and components that can have NN material incorporated to improve performance. For example, a riser, a string stop, a stabilizer, a sight, a rest, a quiver, a grip, or any other archery bow component or archery product in general can incorporate one or more portions of NN material. Furthermore, changes can be made in the function and arrangement of archery components or products discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention which is defined in the appended claims, and various embodiments can omit, substitute, or add other components or accessories as appropriate. For instance, one or more portions incorporated into a particular component described with respect to certain embodiments can be combined in other embodiments.

Claim 1:
An archery bow (<NUM>) comprising:
a riser (<NUM>);
a first limb (<NUM>) coupled to the riser (<NUM>);
a second limb (<NUM>) coupled to the riser (<NUM>); and
a bowstring (<NUM>) extending between the first limb (<NUM>) and the second limb (<NUM>);
characterized in that at least one of the riser (<NUM>), the first limb (<NUM>), the second limb (<NUM>), or the bowstring (<NUM>) comprises a Non-Newtonian Material (NN material) (210A-210B, 310A-310B, 410A-410B, 510A-510B).