Self-cleaning trigger connector system

Abstract

A self-cleaning trigger connector system resulting in increased reliability comprising a self-cleaning trigger connector and a trigger mechanism housing. The self-cleaning trigger connector is designed with specific contact points to prevent over-travel of the trigger bar when operating in cooperation with the trigger of the firearm. The self-cleaning trigger connector has a first at least one elongated through hole of a predetermined length that allows for a lighter trigger pull and defines a lubrication reservoir. The trigger mechanism housing comprises a second at least one elongated through hole. Debris that accumulates from the interaction between the trigger bar and the self-cleaning trigger connector passes through the first and second at least one elongated through holes. After passing through the first and second at least one elongated through holes, the debris then falls downwardly through a cavity adjacent to the firearm magazine well.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to firearms, and more particularly, to a self-cleaning firearm trigger stop mechanism.

2. Description of the Related Art

Firearms are mostly used utilized by military, law enforcement, sport enthusiasts, and private owners for target, game and self-defense. Firearms are fired by their trigger mechanisms, more specifically in various firearms trigger connectors are used to regulate and control the movement of triggers to fire firearms. There are many connector types with predetermined angles to control trigger poundage and movement. They may be used to control and regulate the triggers on various firearms. Presently connectors serve only one main purpose that of controlling trigger function. While the existing trigger connectors are adequate for functioning under ideal conditions in the absence of fouling, environmental substances or debris the presence of these things causes the existing system to lock up and fail to function. The failure of the existing system during target practice maybe annoying but would not be life threatening, if the trigger system fails during a self defense incident the outcome could be catastrophic resulting in serious injury or a loss of a life. Therefore there is a need for a trigger connector and trigger mechanism housing that will function under adverse conditions in the presence of fouling, environmental substances or debris. The functioning of the trigger connector and trigger mechanism housing under adverse is more critical if the firearm is utilized by military, law enforcement or others for self defense. Under these circumstances it is essential that the trigger connector and trigger mechanism housing will function to fire the firearm when activated and in order to insure continuous functioning even during prolonged intervals between normal cleaning and maintenance the trigger connector and trigger mechanism housing must be self cleaning and function regardless of the presence of fouling, environmental substances or debris.

Also, while participating in sport or especially during moments of self-defense, it is desirable to initially discharge the firearm with minimal trigger travel distance to allow for quick firing and rapid succession. In addition to rapid firing, precision shooting is an aim that is strived for. In most semi-automatic firearms that have an enclosed striker assembly, the trigger mechanism travels a distance beyond the point of firing, increasing the time period for the initial and successive discharges. Additionally, the excess distance beyond the point of firing of the firearm causes a fulcrum effect. This fulcrum effect causes the barrel of the firearm to generally travel in a downward and sideward path, depending if the user utilizes their right or left hand to discharge the firearm. This generally downward and sideward path of the barrel after the initial discharge of the firearm, caused by the user exerting force beyond the point of firing, results in a reduction of accuracy and precision when firing. Furthermore, it is very desirable to combine these attributes, increasing the reliability of a pistol's trigger system by using a self cleaning connector system for the removal of debris, having the characteristics that allow for a lighter trigger pull with a lubrication reservoir and limiting the excess trigger movement.

In the past, firearm users have introduced epoxy or similar compounds immediately behind the trigger area, to fill in and prevent the trigger from surpassing the point of firing. However, this remedy is not precise and generally leaves an unfinished appearance to the firearm.

There is a need for a practical and inexpensive assembly that can be incorporated into firearms without major structural changes to prevent a trigger from traveling any distance beyond the firing point to increase firing speed and target precision. There are no similar trigger stop connector systems to the best of applicant's knowledge, that are built-in the firearms to prevent excess travel of a trigger beyond the point of firing, that are self-cleaning for removal of debris, and have characteristics that allow for a lighter trigger pull and a lubrication reservoir.

Applicant believes that the closest reference corresponds to Applicants own U.S. Pat. No. 6,354,032. However, it differs from the present invention because in U.S. Pat. No. 6,354,032 Applicant teaches a trigger stop connector for semi-automatic firearms that have an enclosed striker assembly. Incorporated into firearms without major structural changes, the trigger stop connector is designed to increase firing speed and prevent a fulcrum effect caused when a trigger mechanism travels a distance beyond the point of firing of the firearm, thus increasing target precision when discharging the firearm. The trigger stop connector, replacing a common connector, is designed with specific contact points to prevent over-travel of the trigger bar when operating in cooperation with the trigger of the firearm.

Other patents describing the closest subject matter provide for a number of more or less complicated features that fail to solve the problem in an efficient and economical way. None of these patents suggest the novel features of the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A self-cleaning trigger connector system for firearms having an enclosed striker assembly, comprising an elongated member having first and second ends. The elongated member has a first bent lip extending perpendicularly from the first end and a first leg perpendicularly extending a first predetermined distance from the second end. The elongated member also has a second leg extending therefrom, whereas the second leg has a second bent lip extending perpendicularly from the second leg. The elongated member further has a first at least one elongated through hole at a second predetermined distance from the first end without reaching the second end. A trigger mechanism housing has a second at least one elongated through hole. Self-cleaning means are for the removal of debris when a trigger bar mechanism slidably travels in a generally rearward and downward direction across the first at least one elongated through hole to remove the debris from the trigger bar mechanism through the second at least one elongated through hole and downwardly through a cavity, adjacent to a magazine well of a firearm, as the trigger bar mechanism is temporarily not biased against the elongated member.

Firing speed means are for increasing firing speed of the firearm by restricting excessive movement of the trigger bar mechanism. The trigger bar mechanism has a trigger member. The firing speed means includes minimizing travel of the trigger member by guiding the trigger bar mechanism upon the first and second bent lips and the first and second legs of the elongated member.

Lubrication means are for lubrication of the trigger bar mechanism when the trigger bar mechanism slidably travels in the generally rearward and downward direction across the first at least one elongated through hole. The first at least one elongated through hole defines a lubrication reservoir.

Prevention means are to prevent over manipulation of the trigger member thereby increasing the accuracy and precision of the firearm while repetitive firing when a user continues to pull the trigger member after the firearm has discharged. The prevention means includes restricting movement of the trigger bar mechanism with the first and second bent lips of the elongated member and the first and second legs.

The second leg has a third leg perpendicularly extending a third predetermined distance.

The firing speed means further includes minimizing the travel of the trigger member by guiding the trigger bar mechanism upon the first and second bent lips and the first, second, and third legs of the elongated member.

The prevention means further includes restricting movement of the trigger bar mechanism with the first and second bent lips and the first, second, and third legs of the elongated member.

In the preferred embodiment, the first and second at least one elongated through holes are aligned.

It is therefore one of the main objects of the present invention to provide a self-cleaning trigger connector system for firearms that is utilized to prevent a trigger from traveling beyond the point of firing.

It is another object of the present invention to incorporate a self-cleaning trigger connector system for firearms that is self-cleaning for removal of debris increasing the reliability of the pistol.

It is another object of the present invention to incorporate a self-cleaning trigger connector system for firearms that has characteristics that allow for a lighter trigger pull.

It is another object of the present invention to incorporate a self-cleaning trigger connector system for firearms that has a lubrication reservoir.

It is another object of the present invention to incorporate a self-cleaning trigger connector system for firearms to prevent over manipulation of the trigger, which causes a reduction of accuracy while repetitive firing.

It is yet another object of this invention to increase the speed of firing a firearm with a reduced trigger travel distance.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide a self-cleaning trigger connector system for firearms utilized with semi-automatic pistols that have an enclosed striker assembly.

It is yet another object of this invention to provide such a device that is inexpensive to manufacture and maintain while retaining its effectiveness.

Further objects of the invention will be brought out in the following part of the specification, wherein detailed description is for the purpose of fully disclosing the invention without placing limitations thereon.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

With the above and other related objects in view, the invention consists in the details of construction and combination of parts as will be more fully understood from the following description, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 represents a perspective view of the instant invention and a trigger bar assembly.

FIG. 1a shows a side view of the self-cleaning trigger connector.

FIG. 1b shows a side view of an alternate embodiment of the self-cleaning trigger connector.

FIG. 1c is a side elevational view of the present invention trigger mechanism housing.

FIG. 2 represents a perspective view of the prior art connector with the trigger bar assembly.

FIG. 2a shows a side view of the prior art connector.

FIG. 2b is a side elevational view of the prior art trigger mechanism housing.

FIG. 3 illustrates an isometric view of a firearm in the cocked position.

FIG. 3a illustrates an isometric view of the firearm in the fired position with the alternate embodiment of the present invention and debris falling through the cavity.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring now to the drawings, where the present invention is generally referred to with numeral 10, it can be observed that it basically includes self-cleaning trigger connector 20, bent at predetermined locations to permit its mechanical transactions to effectuate a self-cleaning trigger connector mechanism, and trigger mechanism housing 80. Instant invention 10 is made out of a durable and lightweight material as stainless steel, alloy metal, or other material having similar characteristics. In the preferred embodiment, self-cleaning trigger connector 20 is manufactured as a single metallic piece and has a general consistent thickness throughout of approximately 0.65 mm to 1.25 mm, so as to cooperatively interact with the general trigger mechanism of semiautomatic firearms that have an enclosed striker assembly. Such a firearm may be “GLOCK”, without limitation to this specific brand.

As seen in FIG. 1, self-cleaning trigger connector 20 and trigger mechanism housing 80 work in conjunction with trigger bar TB. While firearm F, shown in FIG. 3, is in the cocked position, trigger bar TB is biased against torso 21. As trigger T is pulled, trigger bar TB slidably travels in a generally rearward and downward direction over elongated through hole 41. Elongated through hole 41 is of a predetermined length and allows for self-cleaning with removal of debris D, seen in FIG. 3a, as trigger bar TB slidably travels in a generally rearward and downward direction over elongated through hole 41. Connector lip 24 serves to guide curved end 50. Trigger bar TB remains biased against torso 21 at the point of firing. Upon attaining the point of firing, firearm F, seen in FIG. 3, cycles, whereas spring force, not shown, assists trigger bar TB to shift. Self-cleaning trigger connector 20, guided by connector lip 28 attached by connector leg 26 and a cam on the slide, not shown, causes it to violently shift inwardly, which causes elongated through hole 41 to clean contact surfaces by throwing debris D free from it, whereby trigger bar TB is no longer biased against torso 21. Trigger bar TB slidably travels in a generally forward and upward direction until curved end 50 makes contacts again with connector lip 24, whereas trigger bar TB is again biased against torso 21, where it then re-attains the cocked position, thus completing a firing cycle.

Seen in FIG. 1a is self-cleaning trigger connector 20 in a preferred embodiment. The following dimensions of self-cleaning trigger connector 20 describe an example of the preferred embodiment. As seen, torso 21 has connector lip 24 extending a distance approximately between 0.25 mm to 2.00 mm. Connector lip 24 serves to contain trigger bar TB when biased against it. Connector leg 26 extends from torso 21 at a predetermined angle a distance approximately 1.00 to 3.00 mm and has connector lip 28 extending a distance of approximately 0.25 mm to 2.00 mm.

Opposite in direction from connector lips 24 and 28 is connector leg 22, shown in FIG. 1. Connector leg 22 removably fits within firearm F, shown in FIG. 3, to secure self-cleaning trigger connector 20.

Seen in FIG. 1b is an alternate embodiment of self-cleaning trigger connector 20. The alternate embodiment comprises stop leg 30 that extends perpendicularly from connector leg 26. Although not illustrated, it is noted that the alternate embodiment also comprises a connector leg 22 like the preferred embodiment.

Seen in FIG. 1c is trigger mechanism housing 80 comprising elongated through hole 84 to receive debris D, seen in FIG. 3a. Additionally, slit 82 has cooperative characteristics to receive connector leg 22.

Seen in FIG. 2 is prior art connector 20′ and trigger mechanism housing 80′. Prior art connector 20′ works in conjunction with trigger bar TB. While firearm F, shown in FIG. 3, is in the cocked position, trigger bar TB is biased against torso 21′. As trigger T is pulled, trigger bar TB slidably travels in a generally rearward and downward direction. Connector lip 24′ serves to guide curved end 50. Trigger bar TB remains biased against torso 21′ at the point of firing. After the point of firing, trigger bar TB continuous to travel generally in a rearward and downward direction until a spring force, not shown, causes trigger bar TB to shift. Guided by connector lip 28′, edge 52 of trigger bar TB slidably travels in a generally forward and upward direction until completing the firing cycle.

Shown in FIG. 2a is prior art connector 20′. Torso 21′ has connector lip 24′. Connector lip 24′ serves to contain trigger bar TB when biased against it. Connector leg 26′ extends from torso 21′ at a predetermined angle and has connector lip 28′. Opposite in direction from connector lips 24′ and 28′ is connector leg 22′, shown in FIG. 2. Connector leg 22′ removably fits within firearm F to remain secured.

Seen in FIG. 2b is prior art trigger mechanism housing 80′ comprising slit 82′ of cooperative characteristics to receive connector leg 22′.

As best seen in FIG. 3, firearm F is in the cocked mode. Once the user grasps firearm F, aims, and is ready to fire, the user exerts a force to overcome the force of trigger T. Trigger T is mechanically connected to trigger bar TB. Upon depressing trigger T, trigger bar TB is guided and thereby moves in a generally rearward and downward path over elongated through hole 41 removing debris D, seen in FIG. 3a.

As seen in FIG. 3a, firearm F is in the fired mode. At this moment, the user has pulled trigger T with sufficient force and a sufficient distance to activate the firing pin mechanism, not shown, which in turn makes contact with the primer of a bullet, not shown, discharging firearm F. Contact points prevent over manipulation of trigger T past the point of firing. Specifically, stop leg 30 is designed as a specific contact point to prevent over travel of trigger bar TB when operating in cooperation with trigger T of firearm F. At the moment of discharge, stop leg 30 contacts cross edge 60. Thus, the ability to prevent movement of firearm F is increased because the fulcrum effect is greatly reduced. The excess distance beyond the point of firing of firearm F is what causes the fulcrum effect. The fulcrum effect causes the barrel of firearm F to generally travel in a downward and sideward path. Additionally, the contact points establish a shortened trigger travel distance. With a shortened trigger travel distance, less time is required for the user to discharge firearm F. As a result, the user benefits from each subsequent discharge with less time required for firearm F to cycle back into the cocked mode, as in FIG. 3.

As seen in this illustration, debris D that accumulates from the interaction between trigger bar TB and torso 21 passes through elongated through hole 41 and elongated through hole 84. After passing through elongated through hole 41 and elongated through hole 84, debris D then falls downwardly through cavity C adjacent to magazine well M.

In addition, elongated through hole 41 of the predetermined length allows for a lighter trigger pull since there is less material to torso 21. Furthermore, elongated through hole 41 of the predetermined length defines a lubrication reservoir, whereby lubrication matter, such as oil, may be initially deposited in said elongated through hole 41 to provide lubrication to self-cleaning trigger connector 20, and the parts described above of firearm F. Elongated through hole 41 may be of a variety of shapes, including but not limited to, circular, square, rectangular, and triangular. It is noted that rather than a predetermined length, elongated through hole 41 and elongated through hole 84 may comprise a plurality thereof.

The foregoing description conveys the best understanding of the objectives and advantages of the present invention. Different embodiments may be made of the inventive concept of this invention. It is to be understood that all matter disclosed herein is to be interpreted merely as illustrative, and not in a limiting sense.

Claims

1. A self-cleaning trigger connector system for firearms having an enclosed striker assembly, comprising:

A) an elongated member having first and second ends, said elongated member having a first bent lip extending perpendicularly from said first end, said elongated member having a first leg perpendicularly extending a first predetermined distance from said second end, said elongated member also having a second leg extending therefrom, whereas said second leg has a second bent lip extending perpendicularly from said second leg, said elongated member further having a first at least one elongated through hole at a second predetermined distance from said first end without reaching said second end;

B) a trigger mechanism housing having a second at least one elongated through hole; and

C) self-cleaning means for removal of debris when a trigger bar mechanism slidably travels in a generally rearward and downward direction across said first at least one elongated through hole to remove said debris from said trigger bar mechanism through said second at least one elongated through hole and downwardly through a cavity adjacent to a magazine well of a firearm, as said trigger bar mechanism is temporarily not biased against said elongated member.

2. The self-cleaning trigger connector system for firearms having an enclosed striker assembly according to claim 1, further comprising firing speed means for increasing firing speed of said firearm by restricting excessive movement of said trigger bar mechanism, said trigger bar mechanism having a trigger member, wherein said firing speed means includes minimizing travel of said trigger member by guiding said trigger bar mechanism upon said first and second bent lips and said first and second legs of said elongated member.

3. The self-cleaning trigger connector system for firearms having an enclosed striker assembly according to claim 2, further comprising lubrication means for lubrication of said trigger bar mechanism when said trigger bar mechanism said slidably travels in said generally rearward and downward direction across said first at least one elongated through hole, whereby said first at least one elongated through hole defines a lubrication reservoir.

4. The self-cleaning trigger connector system for firearms having an enclosed striker assembly according to claim 3, further comprising prevention means to prevent over manipulation of said trigger member thereby increasing the accuracy and precision of said firearm while repetitive firing when a user continues to pull said trigger member after said firearm has discharged, wherein said prevention means includes restricting movement of said trigger bar mechanism with said first and second bent lips of said elongated member and said first and second legs.

5. The self-cleaning trigger connector system for firearms having an enclosed striker assembly according to claim 4, further characterized in that said second leg has a third leg perpendicularly extending a third predetermined distance.

6. The self-cleaning trigger connector system for firearms having an enclosed striker assembly according to claim 5, further characterized in that said firing speed means further includes minimizing said travel of said trigger member by guiding said trigger bar mechanism upon said first and second bent lips and said first, second, and third legs of said elongated member.

7. The self-cleaning trigger connector system for firearms having an enclosed striker assembly according to claim 6, further characterized in that said prevention means further includes restricting movement of said trigger bar mechanism with said first and second bent lips and said first, second, and third legs of said elongated member.

8. The self-cleaning trigger connector system for firearms having an enclosed striker assembly according to claim 7, further characterized in that said first and second at least one elongated through holes are aligned.