Launcher apparatus for spherical and disc-shaped objects

Apparatus for launching a disc-shaped object used in the practice or play of a sport comprising:

• launcher means including a constantly rotating arm rotatable about a center pivot, said arm including a flat plate on which is carried spaced channel forming segments defining a channel through which a disc-shaped object is drawn outwardly by centrifugal force toward an outer end of the arm from which the object is released, the width of the arm corresponding to the diameter of the object and the velocity of the object when it is released being a function of the length of the arm and the speed at which the arm is rotating;
• feed means for holding at least one of the objects, said feed means being selectively operable to feed an object into the inlet of the arm;
• drive means for constantly rotating the arm, the drive means being controllable to rotate the arm over a range of speeds so as to control the velocity of the object when it is launched;
• and
• the launcher means including means defining a circumferential wall inside of which the arm rotats, an object moving through the arm contacting an inner surface of the wall when reaching the outer end of the arm, the wall having an opening therein through which the object is released.