a multi - purpose projecting device for propelling and disseminating , generally vertically , paper disks , confetti , or fluid contained in a cartridge . contents of the cartridge as well as the outside surface of the launching tube may be covered with a fluorescent material . the launching tube may serve as a flagpole to supplement its primary function at large social gatherings such as sporting or music events , wedding ceremonies , holiday celebrations , etc . the device consists of a two - part cylindrical launching apparatus and a cylindrical cartridge that may hold paper disks , confetti , fluid , or other soft materials such as fiber , string , fabric , etc . the upper section of the launching tube folds back , into which the cartridge can then be inserted . the lower section of the launching tube consists of a spring , a plunger , a spring , a string , and a trigger . after the cartridge is loaded , a string connecting to the plunger is pulled , contracting the spring and setting the trigger ready for launching . the upper section of the tube is then restored to its original position . pressing the trigger releases the plunger , which moves along the launching tube due to pressure from the extending spring . the plunger compresses air within the tube , propelling contents of the cartridge through the upper section of the launching tube to be ejected .