Patents by Inventor Frank J. Dindl
Frank J. Dindl has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Patent number: 10859356Abstract: A liquid or powder filled cartridge is used to cool and lubricate the bore of gun barrels to eliminate cook off and improve barrel life. A primer is used to rupture the nose of the cartridge and propel the cooling material into the bore. The coolant absorbs heat from the bore of the barrel and is ejected from the muzzle of the weapon. The liquid or powder may include lubricants, preservatives, antifreeze, coolants, cleaners, or mixtures thereof, or other materials to enhance barrel performance. The liquid or powder filled cartridge is particularly well suited to externally powered weapons. Ammunition may be fed into the weapon using a mix of conventional cartridges and coolant filled cartridges. Internally cooling the barrel may be used to reduce or eliminate cook off and increase barrel life.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2020Date of Patent: December 8, 2020Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: Frank J. Dindl
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Patent number: 8297190Abstract: A cartridge assembly for breaching a door including a cartridge case, a cartridge body, and a fuse. The cartridge case contains a first propellant and a primer. The cartridge body has a rearward end in locking engagement with a forward end of the cartridge case, a channel located in the cartridge body contains an extrudable explosive, a piston in slidable engagement in the channel is in a forward end of said channel, the piston being forward of the extrudable explosive contained in the channel, whereby rearward movement of the piston forces extrudable explosive rearwardly and radially outwardly through extrusion ports into a cavity inside of the cartridge body where a bladder is stowed. The piston has a rearwardly projecting detonator pin which upon movement to a rearward most position engages a rearward escapement and detonator which in turn initiates detonation of explosive in the bladder. A fuse is attached to a forward end of the cartridge body. A proximity fuse or contact fuse may be used.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2010Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Inventors: Frank J Dindl, Kenneth R Jones
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Patent number: 8281720Abstract: A flechette cartridge is provided, containing a plurality of flechettes, capable of firing the flechettes in a concentrated and accurate spread pattern upon firing. In particular, both low and high velocity flechette cartridges are provided, which accurately disperse flechettes in a concentrated spread pattern. The flechette cartridge minimizes the parasitic launch mass to maximize flechette payload, flechette velocity and kinetic energy, and to maximize target effects. The flechette cartridge provides a robust means for reliably stripping the flechette payload cup.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2010Date of Patent: October 9, 2012Inventors: Frank J Dindl, Kenneth R Jones
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Publication number: 20120180686Abstract: A frangible projectile, and weapon cartridge containing same, is provided, in which the frangible projectile is comprised of a hollow outer body composed of, for example, a plastic or polymeric material, configured to provide a payload material. Preferably, the hollow outer body has an interior surface having a divider formed or disposed therein, for controlling the movement of the payload material after firing. The hollow outer body of the frangible projectile, upon impact, rapidly fragments upon impact into relatively harmless pieces, and releases/mixes the payload material. However, the payload material may be chosen to provide sufficient mass, and accordingly sufficient kinetic energy, to provide desired target effects, such as powder metals. Alternatively, payload materials, such as reactive chemical components, marking agents, chemiluminescent compositions, incapacitants, multi component reactive compositions, etc., preferably contained within one or more payload containers, are provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2011Publication date: July 19, 2012Inventors: Kenneth R. Jones, Frank J. Dindl
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Patent number: 8128310Abstract: A vehicle restraint system is provided, comprised of an easily installable and transportable base having a deployable vehicle retention means contained therein. In particular, a rigid base over which vehicles may drive is provided, having a deployable vehicle retention means, such as a net or flexible panel, disposed in the base. In addition, lockable rollers, deployable plates and tire puncturing devices are disposed in the base, to prevent or resist movement of the vehicle relative to the base. The base is merely laid upon a surface, and requires no mounting thereto. Upon impact with a vehicle, the vehicle is retained on the base, and the forward motion/inertia of the vehicle is depleted via frictional engagement (sliding) of the base over the mounting surface, wherein the base and vehicle come to a controlled stop within a short distance.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2010Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Unified Designs, Inc.Inventors: Frank J. Dindl, Kenneth R. Jones, Christopher J. Strianse
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Patent number: 8056481Abstract: The present invention provides a controlled deceleration projectile, in particular, a projectile having a nose-mounted fuze thereon, which initiates an ignition/expulsion charge via an ignition shaft in the interior portion of the projectile body at a preset distance from target impact, resulting in inflation of the projectile body with propellant gases to a level sufficient to either expand same, rupturing of a rupture ring, or sliding of the hollow projectile body rearwards relative to the ignition shaft, so as to create an annular opening between the projectile body side wall and projectile body forward end. The payload, which is preferably non-lethal, is then ejected from this annular opening, the resulting forward velocity of the expelled payload and propellant gases producing a rearward thrust on the projectile, and a concomitant deceleration thereof.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2009Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Inventors: Frank J. Dindl, Kenneth R. Jones, Christofer J. Strianse
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Publication number: 20110252995Abstract: The present invention provides a controlled deceleration projectile, in particular, a projectile having a nose-mounted fuze thereon, which initiates an ignition/expulsion charge via an ignition shaft in the interior portion of the projectile body at a preset distance from target impact, resulting in inflation of the projectile body with propellant gases to a level sufficient to either expand same, rupturing of a rupture ring, or sliding of the hollow projectile body rearwards relative to the ignition shaft, so as to create an annular opening between the projectile body side wall and projectile body forward end. The payload, which is preferably non-lethal, is then ejected from this annular opening, the resulting forward velocity of the expelled payload and propellant gases producing a rearward thrust on the projectile, and a concomitant deceleration thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2009Publication date: October 20, 2011Inventors: Frank J. Dindl, Kenneth R. Jones, Christofer J. Strianse
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Publication number: 20110192311Abstract: A flechette cartridge is provided, containing a plurality of flechettes, capable of firing the flechettes in a concentrated and accurate spread pattern upon firing. In particular, both low and high velocity flechette cartridges are provided, which accurately disperse flechettes in a concentrated spread pattern. The flechette cartridge minimizes the parasitic launch mass to maximize flechette payload, flechette velocity and kinetic energy, and to maximize target effects. The flechette cartridge provides a robust means for reliably stripping the flechette payload cup.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 22, 2010Publication date: August 11, 2011Inventors: Frank J. Dindl, Kenneth R. Jones
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Patent number: 7946228Abstract: A self-contained grenade capable of dispersing a non-toxic obscurant composition, or various types of aerosol compositions such as pesticides or antimicrobial/sanitizing agents, is provided. The obscurant or other type of aerosol composition via an exothermic reaction. Release of the obscurant or other type of aerosol composition is effected in a controlled manner by creating heat via a heat producing composition comprising, for example, a thermite composition. The obscurant or other type of aerosol composition is absorbed into a heat transfer media disposed adjacent the heat producing composition. When the exothermic reaction occurs, the heat transfer media transfers the heat to the absorbed material, thereby providing a regulated thermal dispersion of same.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2008Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Inventors: Frank J. Dindl, Laurence E Gainsborough, Wendy Gainsborough, legal representative
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Patent number: 7938067Abstract: A reduced signature weapon cartridge is provided which, when fired, produces little or no muzzle blast or noise signature. In particular, a reduced signature weapon cartridge of the present invention comprises a movable piston disposed within the cartridge, disposed in between the high pressure chamber and the projectile. When fired, propellant gases rapidly force the piston forward within the cartridge case, thereby launching the projectile at a subsonic velocity, thereby eliminating the conventional noise signature associated with supersonic velocities. Thereafter, the propellant gases are slowly released from the cartridge case via perforations formed within the piston, grooves formed in the periphery of the piston, or via a gap between the piston and cartridge wall, thereby reducing or eliminating the conventional muzzle blast.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2007Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Inventors: Frank J Dindl, Kenneth R Jones
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Publication number: 20110083575Abstract: A reduced signature weapon cartridge is provided which, when fired, produces little or no muzzle blast or noise signature. In particular, a reduced signature weapon cartridge of the present invention comprises a movable piston disposed within the cartridge, disposed in between the high pressure chamber and the projectile. When fired, propellant gases rapidly force the piston forward within the cartridge case, thereby launching the projectile at a subsonic velocity, thereby eliminating the conventional noise signature associated with supersonic velocities. Thereafter, the propellant gases are slowly released from the cartridge case via perforations formed within the piston, grooves formed in the periphery of the piston, or via a gap between the piston and cartridge wall, thereby reducing or eliminating the conventional muzzle blast.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2007Publication date: April 14, 2011Applicant: Dindl Firearms Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Frank J. Dindl, Kenneth R. Jones
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Publication number: 20110076097Abstract: A vehicle restraint system is provided, comprised of an easily installable and transportable base having a deployable vehicle retention means contained therein. In particular, a rigid base over which vehicles may drive is provided, having a deployable vehicle retention means, such as a net or flexible panel, disposed in the base. In addition, lockable rollers, deployable plates and tire puncturing devices are disposed in the base, to prevent or resist movement of the vehicle relative to the base. The base is merely laid upon a surface, and requires no mounting thereto. Upon impact with a vehicle, the vehicle is retained on the base, and the forward motion/inertia of the vehicle is depleted via frictional engagement (sliding) of the base over the mounting surface, wherein the base and vehicle come to a controlled stop within a short distance.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2010Publication date: March 31, 2011Inventors: Frank J. Dindl, Kenneth R. Jones, Christopher J. Strianse
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Publication number: 20100294157Abstract: A self-contained grenade capable of dispersing a non-toxic obscurant composition, or various types of aerosol compositions such as pesticides or antimicrobial/sanitizing agents, is provided. The obscurant or other type of aerosol composition via an exothermic reaction. Release of the obscurant or other type of aerosol composition is effected in a controlled manner by creating heat via a heat producing composition comprising, for example, a thermite composition. The obscurant or other type of aerosol composition is absorbed into a heat transfer media disposed adjacent the heat producing composition. When the exothermic reaction occurs, the heat transfer media transfers the heat to the absorbed material, thereby providing a regulated thermal dispersion of same.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2008Publication date: November 25, 2010Inventors: Frank J. Dindl, Laurence E. Gainsborough, Wendy Gainsborough
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Patent number: 7823509Abstract: A flechette cartridge is provided, containing a plurality of flechettes, capable of firing the flechettes in a concentrated and accurate spread pattern upon firing. In particular, both low and high velocity flechette cartridges are provided, which accurately disperse flechettes in a concentrated spread pattern. The flechette cartridge minimizes the parasitic launch mass to maximize flechette payload, flechette velocity and kinetic energy, and to maximize target effects. The flechette cartridge provides a robust means for reliably stripping the flechette payload cup.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2007Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Inventors: Frank J Dindl, Kenneth R Jones
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Publication number: 20100212531Abstract: A flechette cartridge is provided, containing a plurality of flechettes, capable of firing the flechettes in a concentrated and accurate spread pattern upon firing. In particular, both low and high velocity flechette cartridges are provided, which accurately disperse flechettes in a concentrated spread pattern. The flechette cartridge minimizes the parasitic launch mass to maximize flechette payload, flechette velocity and kinetic energy, and to maximize target effects. The flechette cartridge provides a robust means for reliably stripping the flechette payload cup.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2007Publication date: August 26, 2010Applicant: Dindl Firearms Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Frank J. Dindl, Kenneth R. Jones
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Publication number: 20100089226Abstract: A system for remotely monitoring an environment and selectively deploying munitions is provided. The system is comprised of sensors to monitor one or more select environments, one or more munitions deployment devices disposed in the selected environment, and an operator control unit (OCU) operable to communicate with the munitions deployment device(s) and sensors. Sensor data is communicated to the system, enabling a user to selectively deploy munitions disposed in or in communication with the munitions deployment device(s), based on the threat detected by the sensors. Deployable munitions include both lethal and non-lethal munitions. The munitions deployment devices may be deployed in a stationary location, or in mobile applications, such as on a robotic vehicle, and accommodate removably, electrically initiated munitions cartridges. Further, the deployment devices may be in wired or wireless communication with the system, allowing virtually unlimited scalability.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2009Publication date: April 15, 2010Inventors: Kenneth R. Jones, Edward M. Ulicki, Frank J. Dindl
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Publication number: 20080223246Abstract: The present invention provides a burping projectile and, particularly, a non-lethal projectile having a nose-mounted fuze thereon, which initiates an expulsion charge via an ignition shaft in the payload cup of the projectile body at a preset distance from target impact, resulting in sufficient expansion of the projectile body via the forces of propellant gases to create an annular opening between the projectile body side wall and projectile body forward end. The payload is then ejected from this annular opening, the resulting forward velocity of the escaping payload producing a rearward thrust on the projectile, and a concomitant deceleration thereof to a non-lethal forward velocity or a total reverse in direction of travel.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2007Publication date: September 18, 2008Inventors: Frank J. Dindl, Kenneth R. Jones
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Patent number: 7089863Abstract: A non-lethal cartridge having sufficient discharge energy for use, without modification, in conventional firearms. When used with a firearm with a rifled barrel, the cartridge comprises a non-lethal projectile having a grooved outer surface and a dense powder ballast. Upon discharge, the dense powder ballast is dispersed. When used with a smooth bore firearm, the cartridge also comprises a cylindrical casing having rifling grooves on the inner surface thereof. These grooves will impose a spin on a projectile fired from the cartridge casing. The dense powder ballast will provide sufficient initial inertial mass to permit proper functioning of the firearm, but disperses and dissipates a portion of the discharge energy, simulating the recoil impulse and permitting the non-lethal projectile to simulate the trajectory of standard ammunition.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2003Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: Frank J. Dindl
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Patent number: 7021219Abstract: A low-impulse, non-lethal telescoping cartridge for deployment of non-lethal ordnance. The cartridge includes a payload cup containing at least one non-lethal projectile. The payload cup is telescopically mounted upon a cartridge case base. When fired, the payload cup telescopes out from the base and releases the non-lethal projectiles at a non-lethal velocity. The telescoping feature of the cartridge allows the cartridge to be fired from an automatic weapon, such as a 40 mm MK19 grenade machine gun.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2004Date of Patent: April 4, 2006Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: Frank J. Dindl
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Patent number: 6904838Abstract: A restraining net launching device includes a planar restraining net which is tightly packed into a cylindrical shape having an outside portion. This restraining net, when planar or unfurled, includes a perimeter which is heavier than a remainder of the net. A launcher is provided in which the packed net is loaded, and from which the packed net is launched toward a target when desired. The launcher includes rifling which engages the outside portion of the packed net during launching. A source of propelling gas is used for propelling the tightly packed restraining net out of the launcher during launching. When the launching device is fired, the rifling of the launcher engages the outside portion of the packed restraining net to cause the tightly packed restraining net to rotate about the longitudinal axis and hence to unfurl after exiting the launcher with the heavier perimeter radially outermost.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2004Date of Patent: June 14, 2005Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: Frank J. Dindl