Explosive Charge Patents (Class 89/7)
  • Patent number: 11959719
    Abstract: Pneumatic simulator for an open bolt firearm including an actuator group having a stationary piston and a moving bolt. With each simulated firing cycle producing a firing event, the spring actuates moving bolt toward stationary piston such that the activator unseats a valve located in the stationary piston. Unseating the valve allows regulated compressed gas to exit a high pressure reservoir located in the firearm magazine well which drives the moving bolt back against the spring to complete a firing cycle. Subsequent firing cycles will continue automatically as long as the shooter keeps the trigger depressed. A tension rod, and laser also may comprise the simulator assembly. A nut may be used to secure the tension rod and laser. A laser cable may be used to electrically connect laser to a firing event signal generator. The firing event signal generator may include a magnet located in the moving bolt and a pickup positioned in the stationary piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Inventor: Vojtech Dvorak
  • Patent number: 11846486
    Abstract: An air gun configured to propel a projectile without the use of combustion at a preselected velocity is provided. The air gun includes at least one first valve disposed between a chamber and a source of compressed gas, and at least one enhancement mechanism to improve the efficiency of the compressed gas to propel the projectile at a preselected velocity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2023
    Assignee: Modern Pneumatic Sporting Devices LLC
    Inventors: Carl E Caudle, Nathanel J Caudle, Nakkii White, Patrick D. S. Reed
  • Patent number: 11561055
    Abstract: A semiautomatic or fully automatic firearm that includes a barrel, the rear barrel end whereof is in the form of a cartridge chamber into which a cartridge can be inserted, a breech body which is arranged such that it can move in the longitudinal direction between an open position, which releases the cartridge chamber for the reloading of a cartridge, and a closed position which closes the cartridge chamber, wherein the breech body closes the cartridge chamber at the rear in the closed position and is used as a support for the cartridge case of the cartridge, wherein the firearm has a mass simulation body which is in force-fitting engagement with the breech body, in particular a mass simulation body which is rigidly connected to the breech body, the mass simulation body being formed at least in part from a magnetizable or a magnetic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2023
    Inventor: Gerhard Kirstein
  • Patent number: 11002507
    Abstract: A magnetic apparatus and related method and energy product-by-process to motivate linear or rotational motion, comprising: at least one magnet ring tier comprising a ring of a plurality of permanent magnets; a central core comprising a permanent magnet projectile movement channel, an axis of the channel aligned in a direction normal to a geometric plane defined by the magnet ring, and running through a geometric center of the magnet ring; and each of the permanent magnets mounted in the ring at a mount angle thereof, with the components of their polar alignments parallel to the central core all oriented in the same direction; wherein: if the polar alignment of a permanent magnet projectile was introduced with a particular duality-dependent orientation into the permanent magnet projectile movement channel, the magnetic forces between the ring magnets and the projectile would be capable of motivating the permanent magnet projectile relative to the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Inventor: Mark J. Noonan
  • Patent number: 10718591
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a foldable buttstock assembly for a pneumatic air gun. The foldable buttstock assembly has a foldable buttstock air fitting adapter connected to an air tank to a barrel unit of the pneumatic air gun. It also has an air channeling fitting to channel flow of the air gas. The pneumatic air gun can be operated while the air tank is in any position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Inventor: Khanh Tran
  • Patent number: 10697720
    Abstract: A projectile launcher, comprising: an internal tank configured to receive a combustible gas through an inlet, a barrel, a projectile storage portion, a piston, a trigger assembly configured to operate a spool, and a flexible structure configured to wrap around the spool. The flexible structure may be connected to the piston, wherein pulling the trigger assembly causes the spool to rotate to cause the flexible structure to pull the piston forward. The piston may be configured to expand a combustion chamber behind the piston when pulled forward, wherein pulling the trigger assembly causes the combustible gas to enter the combustion chamber created by the piston moving forward. The combustion chamber is configured to collapse after the shot is executed due to a spring bias applied to the piston to a backward position and due to the flexible shaft being released from pulling the piston forward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2020
    Inventor: Everson Fortes Silva
  • Patent number: 9500419
    Abstract: One or more ram accelerator devices may be used to form one or more holes in geologic or other material. These holes may be used for drilling, tunnel boring, excavation, and so forth. The ram accelerator devices propel projectiles which are accelerated by combustion of one or more combustible gasses in a ram effect to reach velocities exceeding 500 meters per second.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: HYPERSCIENCES, INC.
    Inventor: Mark C. Russell
  • Patent number: 9459059
    Abstract: A method of firing projectiles without the use of cartridge cases by electronically controlling the dynamics of internal ballistics created by combustion of Nitrous Oxide and a fuel injected under high pressure at oxygen rich or stoichiometric ratios. The shape of injector nozzles and the combustion chamber as well as a timed sequence of Nitrous Oxide injection, fuel injection and their ignition are used to create correct ballistics. The timing of the injection and ignition sequence is automatically altered dynamically by an electronic control unit that obtains information from sensors and from an operator to tune the combustion for each firing so that the internal ballistic pressure versus time curve is favorable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Inventor: Peter John Hamilton
  • Patent number: 9222737
    Abstract: This application relates to a projectile launcher in which the amount of fuel supplied to the combustion chamber can be varied to shoot the projectile in a lethal or non-lethal mode. The amount of fuel determines the velocity at which the projectile is fired. A low velocity launch on the order of 150 feet per second will be non-lethal at all but very short distance whereas a high velocity launch on the order of 450 feet per second will be non-lethal at a typical range of 100-150 meters but may possibly be lethal at a range of the order of 30 meters or less.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Assignee: LUND AND COMPANY INVENTIONS, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce D. Lund, Michael D. Starrick
  • Patent number: 8950309
    Abstract: A self-propelled explosive system is configured to fit within a barrel mounted on a tank. The system includes: a carrier body defining an interior volume; an explosive within the interior volume; a wheel extending from the carrier body to propel the system to a position within the barrel; a foot extensible from the carrier body, preferably so as to hydraulically lock the system in place within the barrel; a proximity fuse at the front end and the rear end of the carrier body to set off the explosive if tampering is detected; a motor operably connected to the wheel to rotate the wheel and propel the carrier body to a desired position within the barrel and to extend the foot from the carrier body to press against the inner wall of the barrel and lock the carrier body in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: ETBB Associates
    Inventor: S. Mill Calvert
  • Patent number: 8904939
    Abstract: Said device comprises a tube (1), one closed end of which is mounted onto a holder (5), for example a concrete mass (6), that is itself attached to a mountainside (7). The other open end (2) of said tube is rotated toward the snow cover (3). The device also comprises a means (8) for filling the tube (1) with an explosive gas mixture and moreover comprises a priming means that induces the explosion of said mixture. Said device is characterized in that it comprises at least two beams (9) that, each being attached by one of the ends thereof to the holder (5), extends along the tube (1) parallel thereto so as to ensure the holding thereof while forming a means for absorbing the movement of the tube (1) following the gas mixture explosion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Technologie Alpine de Securite—TAS
    Inventors: Stephane Constant, Philippe Berthet-Rambaud, Pascal Roux
  • Publication number: 20140260930
    Abstract: One or more ram accelerator devices may be used to form one or more holes in geologic or other material. These holes may be used for drilling, tunnel boring, excavation, and so forth. The ram accelerator devices propel projectiles which are accelerated by combustion of one or more combustible gasses in a ram effect to reach velocities exceeding 500 meters per second.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: MARK C. RUSSELL
  • Patent number: 8826792
    Abstract: One embodiment of a projectile propulsion method and apparatus comprising a combustion chamber means and valve means enabling cartridge-free projectile propulsion. The embodiment may be implemented with selective-fire and/or variable velocity projectiles. The embodiment employs liquid and/or gaseous propellants which can be injected into the device and combusted to provide the necessary pressures for propelling a projectile. Some variations and alternatives are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Inventor: Christopher George Granger
  • Publication number: 20130257656
    Abstract: An electronic tracking system for obtaining geographic or other information about a targeted object from deployed ordnance. Ordnance can be delivered from any suitable weapon or weapons system, including hand-held or artillery guns, manned or unmanned aircraft, etc. The ordnance can be substantially any projectile targeted at a human, animal or other object. Once deployed, the ordnance can provide a variety of information about location, the target, the shooter, or the ordnance itself. Such information can be transmitted at any suitable interval, even time-delayed or upon a condition. Preferably, the system also contains a receiver to receive the transmitted information. Once received, the information can be then provided to users in any appropriate fashion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Insights International Holdings, LLC dba Nan Trak Industries
    Inventors: Evan Parker, Daniel W. Loyer, William Shucart
  • Patent number: 8534174
    Abstract: A pyrotechnic actuator for a power cutting tool is disclosed. The pyrotechnic actuator comprises a housing defining a cavity therein, a piston positioned at least partially within the cavity, and an insert-molded unitary assembly positioned within the cavity. The unitary assembly comprises a piston engagement member and a base. A sealed void is defined intermediate the piston engagement member and the base. The unitary assembly comprises a breakable member extending intermediate the piston engagement member and the base and a pyrotechnic initiator positioned at least partially within the base. The pyrotechnic initiator, upon application of a current pulse thereto, is configured to generate a pressurized gas in the sealed void that exerts a force on the piston engagement member and breaks the breakable member thereby causing the piston engagement member and the piston to move relative to the base and the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Power Tool Institute
    Inventors: Eishi Kajita, Vahan Avetisian, Abrar Tirmizi
  • Patent number: 8292022
    Abstract: An improved system and method for generating and controlling conducted acoustic waves for geophysical exploration are provided. A plurality of overpressure waves are generated by at least one overpressure wave generator comprising at least one detonation tube having an open end. The at least one overpressure wave generator is oriented so the plurality of overpressure waves are not directed directly towards a target media. The recoil force of the at least one overpressure wave generator occurring during generation of the plurality of overpressure waves is coupled to the target media to generate conducted acoustic waves. The timing of the generation of the plurality of overpressure waves can be in accordance with a timing code and can be used to steer the conducted acoustic waves to a location of interest in the target media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Soundblast Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Fullerton
  • Patent number: 8276495
    Abstract: A kit of modular explosive ordnance disposal components may include five components. The five components may be assembled in various configurations to fire solid slugs, water shots, or fin-stabilized projectiles. Each assembled configuration may include a first component having a generally cylindrical shape, a through-bore, a muzzle end, and a breech end. The muzzle end of the first component may include external threads. The breech end of the first component may include an internally-threaded portion for receiving a .50 caliber breech plug. A .50 caliber cartridge chamber may be formed adjacent the internally-threaded portion. A bore of about one inch in diameter may extend from the .50 caliber cartridge chamber to the muzzle end of the first component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Peter Chiu, Hansen Lukman, Laurie A. Florio, Brent Donahue, Kevin Russell, Eddy K. Tsui
  • Publication number: 20120216697
    Abstract: A liquid missile for being projected from a launching device which includes a liquid charge combined with a non-rigid flight integrity component. The flight integrity component allows the liquid charge to be launched at increased speeds and distances by inhibiting substantial break-up of the liquid charge during flight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jacobsen, Fraser M. Smith
  • Patent number: 8201486
    Abstract: A stage light gas gun system and method capable of having a variable power output to match a specific use or application. The light gas gun uses a high pressure hydraulic oil system to provide a propulsive force behind two-stage piston system that is used to compress a light gas. The light gas gun may include a punch formed on the second piston for piercing a rupture disk at a pre-determined point in order to provide predictable performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Inventor: Michael L. Fuhrman
  • Patent number: 8172034
    Abstract: An improved system and method for controlling and directing sound waves is provided. A fuel-oxidant mixture is supplied to at least one detonator having at least one spark initiator. The fuel-oxidant mixture flows through the at least one detonator and into the closed end of at least one detonation tube also having an open end. The timing at least one spark initiator is controlled to initiate at least one spark within the at least one detonator while the fuel-oxidant mixture is flowing through the at least one detonator thereby initiating a detonation wave at the closed end of the at least one detonation tube. The detonation wave propagates the length of the at least one detonation tube and exits the open end of the at least one detonation tube as a sound wave. When multiple detonation tubes are detonated with controlled timing, the resulting sound waves are directed to a desired location. Sound waves can be directed from groups of detonation tubes and from a sparse array of detonation tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Soundblast Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Fullerton
  • Patent number: 8136624
    Abstract: An improved system and method for ignition of a gaseous or dispersive fuel-oxidant mixture is provided where a gaseous or dispersive fuel-oxidant mixture is supplied to a detonator tube having a fill point and an open end and an igniter placed at an ignition point within the detonator tube is ignited while the gaseous or dispersive fuel-oxidant mixture is flowing through the detonator tube. A detonation impulse is produced at the ignition point that propagates to the open end of said detonator tube where it can be supplied to a detonation tube having an open end, to an internal combustion engine, a combustion chamber, and to a pulse detonation engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Soundblast Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Fullerton
  • Patent number: 8015907
    Abstract: An apparatus for launching a projectile, such as a paintball. The apparatus uses energy generated from the combustion of fuel to propel a projectile out of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Tippmann Sports, LLC
    Inventor: Dennis J. Tippmann, Sr.
  • Patent number: 8006602
    Abstract: A combustion powered, pneumatic augmented gun system is disclosed. The combustion powered, pneumatic augmented gun system may include a gun barrel, a combustion chamber, an augmentation air plenum in fluid communication with the combustion chamber, a trigger valve assembly, a fuel supply tank connected to the combustion chamber disposed to provide a combustible fuel to the combustion chamber, and an air compressor connected to the augmentation air plenum disposed to provide compressed air into the augmentation air plenum. When a projectile is to be fired, fuel is combusted in the combustion chamber providing a flow of gases into the gun barrel. Compressed air from the augmentation air plenum is released to augment the acceleration of the projectile in the gun barrel when pressure in the combustion chamber drops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Donal Richard Myrick
  • Patent number: 7954413
    Abstract: An improved two-stage light gas gun for launching projectiles at high speeds. The gun consists of three tubes: the expansion, pump, and launch tubes. The expansion tube contains a close-fitting expansion piston that is propelled by an explosive charge. The expansion piston in turn drives the pump piston housed within the pump tube by means of a rod connecting the two pistons. The action of the pump piston adiabatically compresses and heats a light gas of hydrogen or helium, bursting a diaphragm at a predetermined pressure and expelling the projectile from the launch tube at a very high speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Philip Edward Koth
  • Patent number: 7926403
    Abstract: The new injection system provides rapid, high pressure, high density, and transient batch injection of cryogenic liquids. The system stores and maintains the temperature of liquids in vacuum jacketed tanks, increases pressures using pumps, and stores the high pressure fluid in accumulators. The accumulator periodically injects the fluids at high pressure in measured mass batches into a combustion chamber. The system injects enough liquid or gas in 0.5 to 3.0 seconds to provide 500 to 6500 psi in a closed chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Utron Inc.
    Inventors: Eric P. Vigil, David L. Kruczynski, Barry L. Landers, Dennis W. Massey
  • Patent number: 7886866
    Abstract: An improved system and method for ignition of a gaseous or dispersive fuel-oxidant mixture is provided where a gaseous or dispersive fuel-oxidant mixture is supplied to a detonator tube having a fill point and an open end and an igniter placed at an ignition point within the detonator tube is ignited while the gaseous or dispersive fuel-oxidant mixture is flowing through the detonator tube. A detonation impulse is produced at the ignition point that propagates to the open end of said detonator tube where it can be supplied to a detonation tube having an open end, to an internal combustion engine, a combustion chamber, and to a pulse detonation engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Soundblast Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Fullerton
  • Patent number: 7882926
    Abstract: An improved system and method for controlling and directing sound waves is provided. A fuel-oxidant mixture is supplied to at least one detonator having at least one spark initiator. The fuel-oxidant mixture flows through the at least one detonator and into the closed end of at least one detonation tube also having an open end. The timing at least one spark initiator is controlled to initiate at least one spark within the at least one detonator while the fuel-oxidant mixture is flowing through the at least one detonator thereby initiating a detonation wave at the closed end of the at least one detonation tube. The detonation wave propagates the length of the at least one detonation tube and exits the open end of the at least one detonation tube as a sound wave. When multiple detonation tubes are detonated with controlled timing, the resulting sound waves are directed to a desired location. Sound waves can be directed from groups of detonation tubes and from a sparse array of detonation tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Soundblast Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Fullerton
  • Publication number: 20100313742
    Abstract: An apparatus to launch projectiles such as paintballs, BBs, grenades, rocket foam and others. The apparatus uses a cordless nailer fuel cell to provide combustible material to a fan-assisted combustion chamber; the combustible is ignited generating energy to propel the projectile out of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Everson Fortes Silva
  • Publication number: 20100212481
    Abstract: An improved two-stage light gas gun for launching projectiles at high speeds. The gun consists of three tubes: the expansion, pump, and launch tubes. The expansion tube contains a close-fitting expansion piston that is propelled by an explosive charge. The expansion piston in turn drives the pump piston housed within the pump tube by means of a rod connecting the two pistons. The action of the pump piston adiabatically compresses and heats a light gas of hydrogen or helium, bursting a diaphragm at a predetermined pressure and expelling the projectile from the launch tube at a very high speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventor: Philip Edward Koth
  • Patent number: 7770504
    Abstract: Apparatus for firing a projectile comprises a receiver, a barrel, a supply of combustible gas, a combustion chamber, a valve arrangement for controlling flow of combustible gas from the supply to the combustion chamber, an igniter, and a passageway for directing combustion gases from the chamber to propel a projectile from the apparatus. In one embodiment, the barrel has a longitudinally-extending central axis, and the combustion chamber is disposed laterally adjacent the axis. A method of operating the apparatus comprises the steps of providing a combustible mixture of gas and air to the combustion chamber, igniting the mixture so as to generate combustion gases, allowing pressure in the combustion chamber to increase to a predetermined level, and releasing the gases from the combustion chamber and directing the gases to propel the projectile through the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Tippmann Sports, LLC
    Inventors: Dennis J. Tippmann, Sr., Dennis J. Tippmann, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7739938
    Abstract: The launching of an unmanned projectile includes pre-packaging a barrel with a projectile, a pusher cup, and a gas generator. The gas generator generates gas to propel the projectile out of the barrel. A pressure chamber increases a pressure of the gas in the barrel. The pressure chamber comprises a front body portion connected to the gas generator; an aft body portion connected to the front body portion and the gas generator; and a vent sleeve positioned around the front body portion and adapted to provide an aperture through which the gas exits the barrel in order to control a level of gas pressure in the barrel. A triggering of the gas generator causes the pusher cup to push the projectile out of the barrel at a predetermined launch velocity in order to attain a predetermined self-propelled flight trajectory, wherein the triggering causes the pusher cup to exit the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Michael L. Nair, John A. Condon
  • Patent number: 7712244
    Abstract: An apparatus for releasable attachment to a fishing rod, said apparatus including: a barrel having a first end and a releasably sealed first region; wherein the first region of the barrel includes a space within the barrel substantially bounded by a second end of the barrel and a protrusion disposed inside the barrel; and a means of selectably adjusting the volume of the first region including adjusting the position of the protrusion along a length of the barrel; and wherein when the protrusion is disposed inside the barrel, it extends radially-inwardly of the barrel in a substantially transverse orientation to an elongate axis of the barrel; and a means of controllably feeding a propellant into the releasably sealed first region; and a means of expanding the propellant whereby the said expansion of the propellant causes a projectile disposed within the barrel to be propelled outwardly of the barrel via the first end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Inventor: Tautofi Taurik'i Mamae
  • Patent number: 7686005
    Abstract: An onboard combustion-gas-powered engine supplies power to a paintball marker or other projectile launcher by generating gas pressure pulses for propelling paintballs and other projectiles. The combustion gases produced by the engine can be allowed to rise in pressure within a confined volume of space before being released through a valve into a barrel for applying enhanced pressure pulses to the projectiles. A loading system is linked to a combustion accelerating system for automatically loading projectiles into the launcher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Inventor: Joseph S. Adams
  • Patent number: 7665396
    Abstract: An apparatus for launching a projectile, such as a paintball. The apparatus includes a body defining a combustion chamber and a bore. A front bolt is provided that moves between a first position and a second position in which at least a portion of the front bolt is disposed within the combustion chamber in the first position. A rear bolt is movable between a third position and a fourth position such that at least a portion of the rear bolt is disposed within the combustion chamber in the fourth position. A drive mechanism is provided to urge the rear bolt to the fourth position. The apparatus includes an igniter device adapted to ignite a combustible mixture within the combustion chamber to propel the projectile through the bore. A portion of the rear bolt is configured to actuate the igniter device when the rear bolt moves to the fourth position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Tippmann Sports, LLC
    Inventor: Dennis J. Tippmann, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7658185
    Abstract: A barrel assembly for a device for shooting projectiles is disclosed. The barrel assembly comprises a firing chamber with first and second openings, wherein the firing chamber is capable of holding at least two projectiles. A first projectile retention device is located at the second opening of the firing chamber. A propellant injection device injects propellant into the firing chamber through a third opening. A firing control device initiates the injection of propellant into the firing chamber, wherein at least one projectile and the projectile retention device substantially seal the second opening of the firing chamber when propellant is introduced and at least one projectile is expelled out of a barrel through the first opening of the firing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Inventor: Anthony Perry
  • Patent number: 7640986
    Abstract: A perforating gun has a gun carrier extending in a longitudinal direction and a loading tube located within the gun carrier. The loading tube extends in the longitudinal direction and a shape charge is supported by the loading tube. The shape charge has a casing, an explosive, and a liner, the casing opening in a first direction and having a centerline extending in the first direction, the first direction being essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. A liquid implant is located adjacent to the shape charge in the first direction and intersecting the centerline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Lawrence A. Behrmann, Brenden M. Grove
  • Publication number: 20090151948
    Abstract: A perforating gun, having a gun carrier extending in a longitudinal direction; a loading tube located within the gun carrier, the loading tube extending in the longitudinal direction; a shape charge being supported by the loading tube, the shape charge having a casing, an explosive, and a liner, the casing opening in a first direction and having a centerline extending in the first direction, the first direction being essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction; and a liquid implant, the liquid implant being located adjacent to the shape charge in the first direction and intersecting the centerline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Lawrence A. Behrmann, Brenden M. Grove
  • Publication number: 20080190275
    Abstract: An apparatus for launching a projectile, such as a paintball. The apparatus uses energy generated from the combustion of fuel to propel a projectile out of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventor: Dennis J. Tippmann
  • Publication number: 20080110324
    Abstract: An ETC igniter and compatible electrical connector for enabling an ETC gun to be used in a battlefield setting in close proximity with personnel and sensitive electronic equipment. This is accomplished by providing a current path to and from the igniter that is electrically isolated from all other portions of the gun. The connector and igniter are adapted to be capable of withstanding the high connection forces necessary to prevent arcing and the extreme stresses imposed during firing of the gun.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Publication date: May 15, 2008
    Inventors: Michael R. Triviski, David C. Cook, Alan R. Sunnarborg, Reed A. McPeak
  • Patent number: 7296504
    Abstract: The technical field of the invention is that of pyrotechnic actuators comprising a piston, the basic function of which is to exert a thrust so as to displace an object by shooting out the piston. More particularly, the invention relates to a pyrotechnic actuator (1, 1a, 1b, 1c) comprising a pyrotechnic-gas generator (7), a combustion chamber (3) and a piston (9) which can move in a slide chamber (5) under the effect of the said gases. The principal characteristic of this actuator is that it comprises a shut-off device (4, 4a, 4b, 4c) used after the triggering of the said actuator (1, 1a, 1b, 1c) in order, on the one hand, to close the slide chamber (5) and, on the other hand, to secure the depressurization of the combustion chamber (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: SNPE Materiaux Energetiques
    Inventors: Evrard Borg, Laurent D'Emmanuelle, Eric Laspesa, Jean-Paul Nadeau
  • Patent number: 7270044
    Abstract: The invention comprises a device and method for firing firearm ammunition using a plasma torch generator. In a particular embodiment, the device relates to the control or management of the rate of fire and number of rounds fired in a burst firing mode for automatic firearms. The device can be incorporated into firearms of a variety of sizes and configurations to provide precise control of the rate of fire. The device and method can be applied to conventional mechanical primer ammunition or used without the need for a primer, particularly in field artillery, aircraft, and watercraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Gamma KDG Systems SA
    Inventors: Jan Henrik Jebsen, Gerard Aknine
  • Publication number: 20070186761
    Abstract: A barrel assembly for a device for shooting projectiles is disclosed. The barrel assembly comprises a firing chamber with first and second openings, wherein the firing chamber is capable of holding at least two projectiles. A first projectile retention device is located at the second opening of the firing chamber. A propellant injection device injects propellant into the firing chamber through a third opening. A firing control device initiates the injection of propellant into the firing chamber, wherein at least one projectile and the projectile retention device substantially seal the second opening of the firing chamber when propellant is introduced and at least one projectile is expelled out of a barrel through the first opening of the firing chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2006
    Publication date: August 16, 2007
    Inventor: Anthony Perry
  • Patent number: 7254914
    Abstract: A hydrogen operated gun for shooting projectiles such as a paint pellet. Hydrogen gas is supplied to a combustion chamber and is combusted by a trigger controlled piezo igniter. The hydrogen may be supplied by a hydrogen generator or by a hydrogen storage container located in the gun housing. Suitable valve mechanisms are provided to control the flow of hydrogen to the combustion chamber and the expelling of exhaust gases from the combustion chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Lund Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce D. Lund, Michael D. Starrick
  • Patent number: 6843178
    Abstract: A plasma antenna generator includes an ionizable material, an explosive charge capable of projecting the ionizable material upon detonation, and a detonator coupled with the explosive charge. An electromagnetic pulse transmitting system includes an electromagnetic pulse generator and a plasma antenna generator capable of reradiating an electromagnetic pulse emitted from the electromagnetic pulse generator. A method includes providing an explosive device comprising an ionizable material, detonating the explosive device to propel the ionizable material, and ionizing the ionizable material to form at least one plasma trail. A sensing system includes an electromagnetic pulse generator, a plasma antenna generator capable of reradiating an electromagnetic pulse emitted from the electromagnetic pulse generator, and a sensing system capable of receiving and analyzing at least a portion of the electromagnetic pulse after being reflected from an interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: James R. Wood, Roger W. Melin, Mark K. Browder, Steve E. Calico
  • Publication number: 20040031382
    Abstract: A weapon using a barrel through which a projectile travels being propelled through the use of gas expansion. An expansion chamber communicates with the barrel and is “plugged” using a projectile. The expansion chamber is filled with a gas. In the preferred embodiment, the projectile has a collar which seals the opening between the expansion chamber and the barrel. Once the expansion chamber is filled with a gas, the gas is rapidly expanded, thereby forcing the projectile to be propelled through said barrel. In the preferred embodiment, the gas includes a combustible hydrocarbon; in other embodiments, the gas is expanded by thermal means using a high voltage electrical arc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2002
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventor: Mark Ellery Ogram
  • Patent number: 6595103
    Abstract: A contained Davis gun system enables misfire and hang-fire handling for fire out of battery (also known as soft recoil). The gun system decreases structural dynamic activity of the gun barrel during launch with resulting increases in system accuracy. The gun system further presents synergistic advantages when combined with a conventional recoil system in a double recoil design. The gun system includes a non-recoiling barrel and a recoil system engineered to contain a recoiling inertial breechblock capable of translating within the gun barrel. The recoil system includes a brake and a spring secured to a mount fixture. The breechblock enables the loading of the propellant and the projectile within the barrel, and further enables pressure to be contained within the barrel during firing. The recoil system applies a load to the breechblock, which is a function of the breechblock position and its velocity within the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Eric L. Kathe
  • Patent number: 6374717
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device (10) for provoking an avalanche comprising a gas gun (12) the end of which is fixed to a seat (13) solidly anchored to the mountain and the downstream end of which is born by at least one leg (14) such that the mouth of the gun is arranged above the snow cover. The gun (1q2) upstream end is fixed to the seat (13) by an articulation (17), and the downstream end is ballasted, the leg (14) being mounted freely on a base (15) made integral with the ground. The leg (14) is hollow and contains ballast consisting of chippings or concrete. The gun (12) is further provided with ignition mechanisms (54) arranged upstream in its proximity and ensures the ignition of the detonating gas mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Technologie Alpine de Securite T.A.S. S.A.
    Inventor: Jacob Schippers
  • Patent number: 6223642
    Abstract: A projectile firing weapon for firing rounds of the type having a projectile and an associated bore seal which is radially expanded by relative axial displacement between the projectile and the bore seal. The weapon includes a barrel assembly having a barrel bore, a barrel chamber for the round to be fired through the barrel bore, and an associated breech chamber for the next round to be fired. A propellant chamber is formed in the barrel assembly between the barrel chamber and the breech chamber, and a feeder feeds propellant into the propellant chamber. Rounds may be fed axially and sequentially through a loading opening to the barrel assembly and into the breech chamber, thereby forcing the existing round therein into the barrel chamber. Holding means cooperable with the round fed into the breech chamber effect a sealing relationship between the breech chamber and the round therein, causing an operative closure of the barrel chamber. An igniter ignites propellant in the propellant chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Metal Storm Limited
    Inventor: James Michael O'Dwyer
  • Patent number: 6212988
    Abstract: A detonation coating apparatus that coats a substrate with a coating powder which is propelled by the products of a detonation. The present invention increases the rate at which the coating is applied by increasing the detonation rate of the combustible gas mixture. The detonation coating apparatus is a self-detonating apparatus designed to create a secondary pressure within a combustion chamber. This secondary pressure combines with an initiating element, which is heated by detonation to a temperature, to ignite the combustible gas mixture as rapidly as the secondary pressure originates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Aerostar Coatings, S.L.
    Inventors: Alexandr Vladimirovich Chernyshov, Georgiy Yur'evich Barykin, Sergey Nikolaevich Lakiza
  • Patent number: 6192612
    Abstract: A propulsion device including a fuel chamber and barrel constructed with off-the-shelf parts for propelling biodegradable objects. The fuel chamber includes a fuel nozzle actuator for receiving fuel from a pressurized gaseous container. The fuel chamber also includes an ignitor for igniting the fuel in the fuel chamber. The barrel may be interchanged with one including noise reducing holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: Oblon, Spivak, McClelland, Maier & Neustadt, P.C.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Maier, Gregory J. Maier