CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS Not applicable.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT Not applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention
This invention relates to the field of devices used for breaching and entering a structure, more specifically to a collapsible flash bang pole.
Background of the Invention
Specially trained military and police units are used to breach and enter a structure in order to capture and subdue individuals. These units may often use specialty devices, such as flash bangs, before breaching and entering a structure. A flash bang, or other similar device, may be used to confuse, disorient, or blind the individuals trying to keep military or police units from entering the structure. Flash bangs are the non-lethal device of choice to confuse, disorient, and blind individuals inside a structure. However, the flash bang may ignite gases to create a large noise and bright light. At close range, the flash bang may cause unintentional collateral damage, such as injury or death to individuals. To minimize collateral damage, a device is needed that can control the use of a flash bang, or other similar breaching and clearing devices, to prevent collateral damage.
A platform that can control the placement of flash bang is needed that can enter a structure without placing the operator in a hazardous situation. Further, the flash bang, or other device, needs to be positioned by the platform. Once placed, the platform may be able to detonate the flash bang, or operate another device, in order to confuse, disorient, and blind the occupants of the structure.
Consequently, there is a need for a platform to use and operate a flash bang, or similar device, in a structure. Additional needs include a method of using the platform to prevent collateral damage.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF SOME OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS These and other needs in the art are addressed in an embodiment of a collapsible flash bang pole which may comprise a lower support bar and a middle support bar, wherein the middle support bar may connect to the lower support bar by a joint. An upper support bar may connect to the middle support bar by a second joint and an external attachment may connect to the upper support bar by a pin. The collapsible flash bang pole may further comprise a support handle, wherein the support handle connects to the lower support bar and a swivel handle, wherein the swivel handle connects to an end of the lower support bar. A cord may additionally traverse the length of collapsible flash bang pole.
A method for deploying a collapsible flash bang pole may comprise attaching a device to an external attachment, inserting the external attachment into an upper support bar, rotating a middle support bar in relation to a lower support bar about a joint, and rotating an upper support bar in relation to the middle support bar about a second joint. The method may further comprise pushing the collapsible flash bang pole through a structure, wherein a glass shield breaks a portion of the structure, pulling the collapsible flash bang pole back through the window to remove a portion of the structure, and pulling a cord connected to a ring on an operator selected device, wherein the ring may deploy the operator selected device.
The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical advantages of the present invention in order that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the invention will be described hereinafter that form the subject of the claims of the invention. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and the specific embodiments disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other embodiments for carrying out the same purposes of the present invention. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent embodiments do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS For a detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a collapsible flash bang pole in a collapsed position;
FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a collapsible flash bang pole in a collapsed position;
FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of an external attachment;
FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of a joint formed by a lower support bar and middle support bar;
FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of a joint formed by a middle support bar and upper support bar;
FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a collapsible flash bang pole in a partial deployed position;
FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a collapsible flash bang pole in a fully deployed position;
FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a collapsible flash bang pole in a partial deployed potion; and
FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of lower support bar and swivel handle.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate an embodiment of collapsible flash bang pole 1 in a collapsed position. Collapsible flash bang pole 1 may comprise of a lower support bar 5, a middle support bar 10, an upper support bar 15, an external attachment 20, a swivel handle 30, and support handle 35. As illustrated in FIG. 1, lower support bar 5, middle support bar 10, and upper support bar 15 may comprise a tubular structure. In other embodiments, lower support bar 5, middle support bar 10, and upper support bar 15 may be any suitable shape which may include, but is not limited to, circular, square, triangular, polyhedral, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, support bar 5, middle support bar 10, and upper support bar 15 may have a hollow interior and/or be solid. Lower support bar 5, middle support bar 10, and upper support bar 15 may all be the same length and/or be of different varying lengths. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, lower support bar 5 may be longer than middle support bar 10 and upper support bar 15. Suitable lengths for each individual support bar 5, middle support bar 10, and upper support bar 15 may be between about one foot and about fifteen feet, about five feet and ten feet, about six feet and about twelve feet, and/or about eight feet and ten feet. Specifically, each individual support bar 5, middle support bar 10, and upper support bar 15 may be about five feet, about six feet, about seven feet, about eight feet, about nine feet, about ten feet, about eleven feet, about twelve feet, about thirteen feet, about fourteen feet, or about fifteen feet. Lower support bar 5, middle support bar 10, and upper support bar 15 may further comprise any suitable material to prevent collapsible flash bang pole 1 from breaking apart in a deployed position. Suitable materials may be, but are not limited to, steel, steel alloys, stainless steel, plastic, metal, carbon steel, or any combination thereof. In embodiments, the length of collapsible flash bang pole 1 may allow an operator to safely deploy device 105, discussed below, while remaining concealed. An operator may use a swivel handle 30 and support handle 35 to maneuver, support, and/or deploy collapsible flash bang pole 1.
Swivel handle 30 may be disposed on lower support bar 5. In embodiments, swivel handle 30 may attach to lower support bar 5 by any suitable means. Suitable means may be, but are not limited to, a weld, bearings, nuts and bolts, screws, snap rings, and/or any combination thereof. In embodiments, swivel handle 30 may be tubular and/or any suitable shape which may allow an operator to firmly grasp swivel handle 30 and control collapsible flash bang pole 1. Suitable shapes may be, but are not limited to, circular square, triangular, polyhedral, or any combination thereof. Swivel handle 30 may be made of any suitable material. Suitable material may comprise, but is not limited to, steel, steel alloys, stainless steel, plastic, metal, carbon steel, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, swivel handle 30 may have a hollow interior and/or solid interior. In embodiments, swivel handle 30 may have a diameter from about half an inch to about five inches. The edges of swivel handle 30 may be of any suitable length. Suitable length, may include, but are not limited to, about four inches to about twelve inches, about eight inches to about ten inches, about nine inches to about twelve inches, and/or about four inches to about six inches. Further, indents, not illustrated, may be disposed along swivel handle 30 at any suitable location, which may allow for the operator to rest individual fingers within the indents. A suitable location may be the interior edge, the outer edge, and/or the sides of swivel handle 30. This may allow for an operator to better grasp swivel handle 30 and control collapsible flash bang pole 1. Swivel handle 30 may attach along lower support bar 5 along any area. As illustrated in FIG. 1, swivel handle 30 may attach to the external surface of lower support bar 5 at two locations. Specifically, about an end of lower support bar 5 or between the ends of lower support bar 5. The attachment locations may be on opposing walls of lower support bar 5. Swivel handle 30 may attach to any set of opposing walls of lower support bar 5. In alternate embodiments, swivel handle 30 may pass through the exterior walls of lower support bar 5 and attach to an interior structure, not shown, or itself within lower support bar 5. Swivel handle 30 may rotate about the attachment axis, positioning swivel handle 30 at any location the operator may desire. Swivel handle 30 may lock into a desired position by any suitable means. Suitable means for locking are known to a person of ordinary skill in the art. The length of collapsible flash band pole 1 may make collapsible flash bang pole unwieldy with swivel handle 30. Additional support handle 25 may allow an operator to exert greater control over collapsible flash bang pole 1.
As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, support handle 35 may be of any suitable shape. A suitable shape may be, but is not limited to, circular, triangular, polyhedral, or any combination thereof. Support handle 35 may have a hollow interior or a solid interior. In embodiments, support handle 35 may have a diameter of about half an inch to about five inches, about one inch to about three inches, about two inches to about four inches, and/or about one inch to about three inches. Support handle 35 may be made of any suitable material. Suitable material may comprise, but is not limited to, steel, steel alloys, stainless steel, plastic, metal, carbon steel, or any combination thereof In embodiments, support handle 35 may comprise a circular structure, which may encircle lower support bar 5. This may allow an operator to grip support handle 35 in any deployment orientation of collapsible flash bang pole one. Each side of support handle 35 may be any suitable length. A suitable length may include, but is not limited to, about two inches to about twelve inches, about four inches to about ten inches, about six inches to about eight inches, and/or about six inches to about twelve inches. Specifically, the length may be about four inches, about six inches, about eight inches, or about ten inches. Support handle 35 may attach to lower support bar 5 through at least one support bracket 36.
Support bracket 36, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, may attach to support handle 35 to lower support bar 5. Support bracket 36 may attach to support handle 35 by any suitable means. Suitable means of attachment may be, but are not limited to, casting, weld. nuts and bolts, screws, or any combination thereof. In embodiments, support brackets 36 may be a similar shape. material, and length of support handle 35. Additionally, support bracket 36 may be hollow or solid. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, support brackets 36 may attach to the external surface of lower support bar 5 at two locations. Specifically, about an end of lower support bar 5 and/or between the ends of lower support bar 5. The attachment locations may be on opposing walls of lower support bar 5 or along the same wall of lower support bar 5. Support bracket 36 may attach to any set of opposing walls of lower support bar 5. In alternate embodiments, support brackets 36 may pass through the exterior walls of lower support bar 5 and attach to an interior structure, not shown, and/or itself within lower support bar 5. This may allow support handle 35 to rotate about the attachment axis and/or the support bracket 36, which may position support handle 35 at any location the operator may desire. Support handle 35 may lock into a desired position by any suitable means. Suitable means for locking are known to a person of ordinary skill in the art. Support bracket 36 may attach to lower support bar 5 by any suitable means. Suitable means of attachment may be, but are not limited to, casting, weld, nuts and bolts, screws, or any combination thereof. In embodiments, an operator may grip support bracket 36, which may allow an operator to orient flash bang pole 1 when deployed. Additionally, the rotational movement of support handle 35 may be limited by vertical stop 37.
As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, vertical stop 37 may extend away from lower support bar 5. In embodiments, vertical stop 37 may be disposed along the external wall of lower support bar 5. Specifically, about an end of lower support bar 5 and/or between support bracket 26 and an end of lower support bar 5. In embodiments, vertical stop 37 may be any suitable shape. A suitable shape may be, but is not limited to, circular, oval, triangular, square, rectangular, polyhedral, and/or any combination thereof. Additionally, vertical stop 37 may be any suitable length. A suitable length may be, but is not limited to, about half an inch to about six inches, about two inches to about four inches, or about three inches to about six inches. Specifically, about an inch, about two inches, about three inches, about four inches, about five inches, or about six inches. Additionally, vertical stop 37 may attach to lower support bar 5 at one end and may be capped at the opposing end. Vertical stop 37 may attach to lower support bar 5 by any suitable means. Suitable means of attachment may be, but are not limited to, casting, weld, nuts and bolts, screws, or any combination thereof. In embodiments, there may be a plurality of vertical stops 37, which may be disposed on opposite sides of lower support bar 5. Vertical stop 37 may operate to prevent the rotation of support handle 35 into lower support bar 5, which may prevent an operator from securely handling support handle 35. Support handle 35 and swivel handle 30 may orient lower support bar 5, which may further orient middle support bar 10 and upper support bar 15.
In embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 4, joint 45 may allow lower support bar 5 and middle support bar 10 to pivot in relation to each other. Joint 45 may comprise lower joint hinge 46 and upper joint hinge 47. Lower joint hinge 46 may attach to lower support bar 5 on an end of lower support bar 5 opposite of cap 135, described below. Lower joint hinge 46 may be made of any suitable material. Suitable material may be, but is not limited to, steel, steel alloys, stainless steel, plastic, metal, carbon steel, or any combination thereof Additionally, lower joint hinge 46 may be of any suitable shape. A suitable shape may be, but is not limited to, circular, triangular, rectangular, square, polyhedral, or any combination thereof. Lower support bar 5 may attach to lower joint hinge 46 by any suitable means. Suitable means may be, but are not limited to, casting, weld, nuts and bolts, screws, pressure fitting, and/or any combination thereof In embodiments, lower joint hinge 46 may further comprise at least two arms 48 and at least two pin cut outs 49. Arms 48 may comprise the same material and shape of lower joint hinge 46. Additionally, arms 48 may be D-rings which may be angled at any suitable angle in relation to lower joint hinge 46. A suitable angle may be, but is not limited to, about ten degrees to about forty-five degrees, about twenty degrees to about thirty degrees, or about thirty degrees to about forty-five degrees. Specifically, about thirty degrees or about forty-five degrees. Arms 48 may attach to lower joint hinge 46 by any suitable means. Suitable means may be, but are not limited to, casting, weld, nuts and bolts, screws, pressure fitting, and/or any combination thereof. In embodiments, lower joint hinge 46 may attach to upper support hinge 47 through a pin 65.
Pin 65 may be a roller pin, clevis pin, cotter pin, spring pin, or the like. As illustrated in FIG. 4, pin 65 may pass through arms 48 and arms 70. In embodiments, arms 70 may comprise the same material, shape, and structure of arms 48. Without limitation, arms 70 may be D-rings which may be angled at any suitable angle in relation to upper joint hinge 47. Arms 70 may further comprise pin cut outs 71. Pin cut outs 49 may align with pin cut outs 71, which may allow for pin 65 to slide through arms 48 and arms 70. Pin 65 may attach upper joint hinge 47 to lower joint hinge 46. Additionally, pin 65 may allow joint 45 to rotate about the axis of pin 65. In embodiments, arms 70 may attach to upper joint hinge 47 by any suitable means. Suitable means may be, but are not limited to casting, weld, nuts and bolts, screws, pressure fitting, and/or any combination thereof. Additionally, upper joint hinge 47 may attach to middle support bar 10 by any suitable means. Suitable means may be, but are not limited to, casting, weld, nuts and bolts, screws, pressure fitting, and/or any combination thereof. Upper joint hinge 47 may attach middle support bar 10, which may allow for middle support bar 10 to rotate about the axis of pin 65.
As illustrated in FIG. 4, upper joint hinge 47 may connect to elbow 50, which may connect upper joint hinge 47 to middle support bar 10. In embodiments, elbow 50 may comprise any suitable angle. A suitable angle may be, but is not limited to, about ten degrees to about ninety degrees, about twenty degrees to about eighty degrees, about thirty degrees to about seventy degrees, about forty-five degrees to about sixty degrees, or about fifty degrees to about ninety digress. Specifically, about thirty degrees, about forty-five degrees, or about ninety degrees. Upper joint hinge 47 may connect to elbow 50 by any suitable means. Suitable means may be, but are not limited to casting, weld, nuts and bolts, screws, pressure fitting, and/or any combination thereof. Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, elbow 50 may allow for collapsible flash bang pole 1 to be oriented in any suitable degree during deployment. This may allow an operator to deploy flash bang pole 1 around corners and/or obstacles, which may afford the operator protection during an operation. In embodiments, the rotation of upper joint hinge 47 and lower joint hinge 46 may allow for upper joint hinge 47 and lower joint hinge 46 to come into contact and lock with each other.
In embodiments, upper joint hinge 47 and lower joint hinge 46 may connect with each other using a pin (not illustrated), locking cam (not illustrated), and a spring (not illustrated). Without limitation, upper joint hinge 47 and lower joint hinge 46 may rotate in relation to each other. As upper joint hinge 47 and lower joint hinge 46 come in to contact, they may lock with each other using a locking cam. The locking cam may be held in place with a pin, which may prevent upper joint hinge 47 and lower joint hinge 46 from rotating away from each other. In embodiments, a button (not illustrated) may be depressed, which may move the pin from the locking cam. The spring may then be allowed to rotate upper joint hinge 47 and lower joint hinge 46 away from each other. Thus, upper joint hinge 47 and lower joint hinge 46 may rotate into a collapsed position for stowage and/or transportation.
As illustrated in FIG. 5, joint 45′ may connect middle support bar 10 and upper support bar 15. Joint 45′ may comprise lower joint hinge 46′, upper joint hinge 47′, arms 48′, pin cut outs 49′, pin 65′, pin cut outs 71′ arms 70′, and elbow 50′. Each component may comprise the same material, shape, structure, and characteristics as their opposing components in joint 45. Joint 45′ may allow upper support arm 15 to pivot in relation to middle support 10 around pin 65′. In embodiments, an end of upper support bar 15 may connect to external attachment 20 at an end opposite joint 45′. Upper support bar 15 may provide the structure and support upon which external attachment 20 may be disposed. External attachment 20 may allow for the deployment of a device 105.
As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3, external attachment 20 may attach to upper support bar 15 at an end opposite joint 45′. Referring to FIG. 3, external attachment 20 may comprise an insert 130, device 105, support assembly 100, glass shield 95, and clamp assembly 110. Insert 130 may attach external attachment 20 to upper support bar 15. As illustrated in FIG. 3, insert 130 may slide into the interior of upper support bar 15. Insert 130 may be made of any suitable material. Suitable material may be, but is not limited to, steel, steel alloys, stainless steel, plastic, metal, carbon steel, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, insert 130 may be hollow or solid. Insert 130 may be any suitable length in which to properly attach external attachment 20 to upper support bar 15. A suitable length may be, but is not limited to, about one inch to about six inches, about two inches to about four inches, about two inches to about five inches, about one inch to about three inches, and/or about three inches to about five inches. In an embodiment, the suitable length may be about three inches. Additionally, insert 130 may comprise a plurality of pin cut outs 120, which may attach upper support bar 15 to external attachment 20.
Pin cutouts 120, as illustrated in FIG. 3, may be disposed at an end of insert 130 opposite of an end in which support assembly 100 may be disposed. In embodiments, pin cutouts 120 may be located opposite each other on opposing surfaces of insert 130. Additionally, mirroring pin cut outs 121 may be disposed on the end of upper support bar 15 opposite the end in which joint 45′ is disposed. FIG. 3 illustrates only a single set of pin cut outs 120 and pin cut outs 121, however it should be understood that there may be several sets of pin cut outs 120 and pin cut outs 121. In embodiments pin cut outs 120 and pin cut outs 121 may align with each other, which may allow set pin 115 to slide through insert 130 and upper support arm 15, which may prevent movement of insert 130. Set pin 115 may comprise a clevis pin, a cotter pin, a spring pin, a split pins, and/or the like. In embodiments, there may be an equal number of pin cut outs 120, pin cut outs 121, and set pins 115. Set pins 115 disposed within pin cutouts 120 and pin cut outs 121 may secure external attachment 20 to upper support arm 15, which may prevent external attachment 20 from dislodging and/or falling out of collapsible flash bang pole 1 during operation.
As illustrated in FIG. 3, support assembly 100 may attach to and end of insert 130 opposite of an end in which pin cut outs 120 may be disposed. Support assembly 100 may be made of any suitable material in which to properly support glass shield 95. Suitable material may be, but is not limited to, steel, steel alloys, stainless steel, plastic, metal, carbon steel, or any combination thereof. Support assembly 100 may further be of any suitable shape in order to support glass shield 95. A suitable shape may be circular, triangular, square, rectangular, polyhedral, or any combination thereof. Support assembly 100 may be of any suitable thickness to resist any force applied upon it by glass shield 95. Suitable thickness may be about one centimeter to about one hundred centimeters, about twenty centimeters to about eighty centimeters, about thirty centimeters to about seventy centimeters, about forty centimeters to about sixty centimeters, and/or about fifty centimeters to about seventy five centimeters. Furthermore, support assembly 100 may attach to glass shield 95 by any suitable means. Suitable means may be, but are not limited to, casting, weld, nuts and bolts, screws, or any combination thereof. In embodiments, support assembly 100 may provide a structure upon which glass shield 95 may be disposed. Support assembly 100 may connect glass shield 95 with insert 130.
Glass shield 95, as illustrated in FIG. 3, may be used to shield an operator selected device 105 from glass and/or any other structure that an operator may break and/or move aside with glass shield 95, which may allow operator selected device 105 to be properly positioned. In embodiments, glass shield 95 may be made of any suitable material. Suitable material may be, but is not limited to, steel, steel alloys, stainless steel, plastic, metal, carbon steel, or any combination thereof. Glass shield 95 may be of any suitable thickness, which may prevent the deformation of the glass shield 95 by external forces. Suitable thickness may be about one centimeter to about one hundred centimeters, about twenty centimeters to about eighty centimeters, about thirty centimeters to about seventy centimeters, about forty centimeters to about sixty centimeters, and/or about fifty centimeters to about seventy five centimeters. Additionally, glass shield 95 may be of any suitable shape in which to protect an operator selected device 105 from external material and external forces. A suitable shape may be circular, rectangular, square, polyhedral, triangular, hemispherical, or any combination thereof. As illustrated in FIG. 3, glass shield 95 may comprise a base 98 with two wings 99 attached at opposing longitudinal sides of base 98. In embodiments, base 98 and wings 99 may be longer in length than device 105. In embodiments, wings 99 may be disposed at any angle to base 98. In embodiments, both wings 99 are at forty-five degrees in relation to base 98. In alternative embodiments, wings 99 may be between about twenty degrees to about ninety degrees, about thirty degrees to about eighty degrees, about forty degrees to about seventy degrees, and/or about fifty degrees to about sixty degrees in relation to base 98. In embodiments, glass shield 95 may have at least two wings 99 of any suitable shape to help protect the operator selected device 105. Suitable shapes may be, but are not limited to, circular, rectangular, square, polyhedral, triangular, hemispherical, or any combination thereof. Wings 99 may be attached to base 98 by any suitable means. Suitable attachment means may be, but are not limited to, by hinges, casting, weld, nuts and bolts, screws, or any combination thereof. In embodiments, glass shield 95 may provide a structure upon which glass spikes 96 may be disposed.
As illustrated in FIG. 3, a plurality of glass spikes 96 may be disposed on base 98 and/or wings 99. In embodiments, glass spikes 96 may be facing away from the operator selected device 105. Glass spikes 96 may be made of any suitable material for breaking glass and puncturing material. Suitable material may be, but is not limited to, steel, steel alloys, stainless steel, plastic, metal, carbon steel, or any combination thereof. Glass spikes 96 may be positioned in equal distance from other glass spikes 96, at or about the center of glass shield 95, and/or about the edges of glass shield 95. In embodiments, glass spikes 96 may weaken glass and/or other material, which may allow for glass shield 95 to be disposed within an area. Weaken may include cracking, fracturing, chipping, and rupturing of the glass. As illustrated in FIG. 3, glass shield 95 may further comprise cut outs 97 within wings 99 and base 98. In embodiments, there are a plurality of cut outs 97. Cut outs 97 may be of any suitable shape to allow for the effects of device 105 to be transmitted through glass shield 95. Suitable shapes may be, but are not limited to, triangular, circular, oval, square, rectangular, polyhedral, and/or any combination thereof. In embodiments, cut outs 97 may be dispose about an edge, about the center, and/or between the center and edge of base 98 and wings 99. Additionally, cut outs 97 may reduce the weight of glass shield 95, which may make collapsible flash bang pole 1 easier to operate.
Glass shield 95, as illustrated in FIG. 3, may further provide a structure for clamp assembly 110 to be disposed. Clamp assembly 110 may attach to glass shield 95 by any suitable means. Suitable means may be, but are not limited to, fasteners, nuts and bolts, screws, adhesive, weld, and/or forming. In embodiments, clamp assembly 110 may comprise any suitable material. Suitable material may be, but is not limited to, metal, plastic, stainless steel, and/or any combination thereof. Additionally, clamp assembly 110 may be disposed at any suitable location on glass shield 95. For examples, clamp assembly 110 may be disposed about an edge, about the center, and/or between the edges of base 98 and/or wings 99. In embodiments, clamp assembly 110 may further comprise a base 111, extensions 112, and knob 113.
In embodiments, base 111 may be a structure upon which extensions 112 and knob 113 may be disposed. As illustrated in FIG. 3, extensions 112 may be the length of base 111 and may be moveable in any direction along the face of base 111. Without limitation, extensions 112 may be any suitable shape. A suitable shape may be, but is not limited to, a curved extension, a “C-Channel”, and/or any combination thereof. Device 105, described below, may be disposed between one or more extensions 112. Extensions 112 may apply force to device 105 in any direction, which may hold device 105 in place. Knob 113 may be used to move extensions 112 along the face of base 111, which may exert force upon device 105. In embodiments, knob 113 may be attached to an actuation screw (not illustrated) which may further be attached to at least one extension 112. Without limitation, knob 113 may be turned to move extensions 112 toward and/or away from each other. This may allow an operator to utilized extensions 112 to clasp and/or release device 105. This may allow device 105 to operate properly within collapsible flash bang pole 1 and/or be removed from collapsible flash bang pole 1 after use.
Device 105 may be any device used to create loud noises, electricity, obnoxious smells, chemicals, explosions, lights, smoke, flashes, and/or any combination thereof Device 105 may be any suitable shape. A suitable shape may be circular, oval, square, triangular, polyhedral, and/or any combination thereof. In embodiments, device 105 may be a flash bang, smoke grenade, stun grenade, and/or any similar device. Device 105 may allow an operator to clear and/or enter an area and/or structure previously occupied by a threatening target.
Cord 26, illustrated in FIGS. 1-8, may attach to ring 75 on device 105 and traverse the length of collapsible flash bang pole 1. Referring to FIG. 3, cord 26 may extend in any direction away from device 105 along collapsible flashbang pole 1. In embodiments, cord 26 may travel from ring 75 through bracket cable guard 80. Bracket guard 80 may comprise a “LI” shaped structure. In embodiments, bracket guard 80 may be any suitable shape. A suitable shape may be, but is not limited to, square, rectangular, circular, oval, polyhedral, and/or any combination thereof. In embodiments, bracket guard 80 may be disposed about any edge of upper support bar 15. Additionally, bracket guard 80 may be disposed about an end of upper support bar 15 opposite of joint 45 and closest to glass shield 95. Bracket guard 80 may comprise notch 81, in which cord 26 may be disposed. Notch 81 may secure and prevent cord 26 from moving during operation and may keep tension within cord 26. Additionally, bracket guard 80 may prevent debris and material from coming into contact with cord 26. In embodiments, notch 81 may be disposed at any suitable location within bracket guard 80. A suitable location may be about any edge of bracket guard 80 and/or between any edges of bracket guard 80. Additionally, cut outs 82 may be disposed within bracket guard 80. Cut outs 80 may be any suitable shape. A suitable shape may be, but is not limited to, circular, oval, triangular, square, rectangular, polyhedral, and/or any combination thereof. Cut outs 80 may be disposed about the center of bracket guard 80. In embodiments there may be a plurality of cut outs 80, which may decrease the weight of bracket guard 80. This may prevent collapsible flash bang pole 1 from becoming top heavy.
Referring to FIG. 1, cord 26 may traverse collapsible flash bang pole 1 from bracket guard 80 by entering upper support bar 15 through slot 60. Slot 60 may be an opening in upper support bar 15 and may be located about an end of upper support bar 15. In embodiments, after entering upper support bar 15, cord 26 may traverse through the interior of upper support bar 15 and exit upper support bar 15 at a slot 60 disposed at the opposite end of upper support bar 15. As shown in FIG. 2, cord 26 may move from upper support bar 15 to middle support bar 10 through slot 60 disposed about an end of middle support bar 10. Cord 26 may traverse the length of middle support bar 10 and exit middle support bar 10 at slot 60 at the opposite end of middle support bar 10. In embodiments, cord 60 may exit middle support bar 10 and move to lower support bar 5 through slot 60 disposed about an end of lower support bar 5. Cord 26 may exit through the opposite end of lower support bar 5 at cap 135.
As illustrated in FIG. 9, cap 135 may be disposed at an end of lower support bar 5, opposite of joint 45. Cap 135 may be made of any suitable material, which may include but is not limited to, steel, steel alloys, stainless steel, plastic, metal, carbon steel, or any combination thereof. Cap 135 may be of any suitable shape in which to enclose an end of lower support bar 5. Suitable shapes may be, but are not limited to, circular, triangular, square, rectangular, polyhedral, or any combination thereof. In embodiments, cap 135 may attach to an end of lower support bar 5 by any suitable means. Suitable means may be, but are not limited to casting, weld, nuts and bolts, screws, or any combination thereof. Additionally, cap 135 may comprise a ledge 136. Ledge 136 may attach to cap 135 by any suitable means. Suitable means may be, but are not limited to, adhesive, weld, forming, and/or any combination thereof. Ledge 136 may be disposed within lower support bar 5 and may provide a structure in which screws 137 may attach. In embodiments, screws 137 may traverse the outer wall of lower support bar 5 and penetrate ledge 136. There may be a plurality of screws 137 which may be disposed at any location suitable to hold ledge 136 in place. Specifically, screws 137 may be disposed about an end of lower support bar 5. Screws 137 may secure ledge 136, and thus cap 135 in place. In embodiments, cord 26 may exit through cord penetration 126. Cord penetration 126 may be disposed about the center and/or about an edge of cap 135. Additionally, cord penetration 126 may be any suitable shape, a suitable shape may be, but is not limited to, circular, oval, square, rectangular, triangular, square, polyhedral, and/or any combination thereof. In embodiments, cord 26 may exit and remain outside cord penetration 126. In embodiments, cord 26 may be secured to lower support bar 5 by any suitable means. Cord 26 may be pulled in any direction away from cord penetration 126, which may in turn activate device 105.
In an embodiments, a device 105, chosen by the operator, may be disposed within clamp assembly 110. The operator may disposed device 105 between extensions 112. Knob 113 may then be rotated to move extensions 112 toward device 105. Extensions 112 may come into contact and apply pressure to device 105 through extensions 112. This may clasp and hold device 105 in place, read for use. Once device 105 is secured, cord 26 may be attached to ring 75, and/or any other appropriate arming mechanism, disposed on device 105. Cord 26 may then be disposed through collapsible flashbang pole 1 through the interior of upper support bar 15, the interior of middle support bar 10, and the interior of lower support bar 5, as described above. Cord 26 may then be pulled out of lower support bar 5, traversing through cap 135, on lower support bar 5, and disposed within an area around swivel handle 30. The collapsible flash bang pole 1 may be kept in a collapsed state by an operator until ready for use.
When the operator approaches a structure, in which a military and/or police unit may breach and clear, the operator may first choose the appropriate site in which to deploy the collapsible flash bang pole 1. After a suitable site to deploy device 105 is determined, the operator may then deploy collapsible flash bang pole 1 into an appropriate position in which to maneuver device 105 into the selected site. FIGS. 6, 7, and 8 illustrate collapsible flash bang pole 1 in a deployed state. FIG. 6 illustrates upper support bar 15 deployed with middle support bar 10 and lower support bar 5 in a collapsed position. FIG. 7 illustrates the collapsible flash bang pole 1 in a fully deployed state. FIG. 8 illustrates lower support bar 5 and middle support bar 10 in a deployed state with upper support bar 15 in a collapsed position. The operator may rotation middle support bar 10 around pin 65 of joint 45, which may allow lower joint hinge 46 and upper joint hinge 47 to contact each other. Upon making contact, lower joint hinge 46 and upper joint hinge 47 may lock by using a locking cam (not illustrated) and a pin (not illustrated). The pin may hold the locking cam in place, which may prevent lower joint hinge 46 from rotating away from upper joint hinge 47 unintentionally. Additionally, a button (not illustrated) may be depressed which may release the pin from the locking cam. Removal of the pin may allow a spring (not illustrated) to apply pressure to lower joint hinge 46 and upper joint hinge 47, which may rotate lower joint hinge 46 away from upper joint hinge 47 into a collapsed position for stowage and/or transportation. This process may be repeated for deploying upper support bar 15. In embodiments, upper support bar 15 may rotate about hinge 45′ disposed between middle support bar 10 and upper support bar 15. Pin 65′ may allow for upper support bar 15 to rotate in relation to middle support bar 10 about the axis of pin 65′. It should be further noted that the operator may choose to rotate only the middle support bar 10 or rotate upper support bar 15 before deploying collapsible flash bang pole 1 and operating device 105.
The operator may then grasp support handle 35 to move collapsible flash bang pole 1 into position. Furthermore, the operator may rotate swivel handle 30 into a desired position and secure swivel handle 30. Swivel handle 30 may be positioned in a chosen position, which may allow the operator to grasp swivel handle 30 in any manner the operator may find helpful in facilitating the deployment of collapsible flash bang pole 1. Additionally, an operator may rotate support handle 35 into a desired position and secure support handle 35 in place. Support handle 35 may be positioned in a chosen positon in which to allow the operator to grasp support handle 35 in any manner the operator may find helpful in facilitating the deployment of collapsible flash bang pole 1. This may allow an operator to position the collapsible flash bang pole 1 in a chosen location for deployment of device 105.
After the operator has deployed collapsible flash bang pole 1, the operator may then position external attachment 20, with device 105, into the chosen area for deployment of device 105. In order to place device 105 into the operator desired position, the operator may have to place external attachment 20 into a structure. Placing external attachment 20 into a structure may use external attachment 20 to break through glass and/or other solid material. The operator may push external attachment 20 through glass and/or other material. Glass spikes 96 may facilitate the breaking of glass and/or other solid structure as external attachment 20 may be pushed through the glass and/or solid material by the operator. Glass shield 95 may prevent the glass and/or solid material from interfering, breaking, and/or destroying device 105 placed behind glass shield 95. By pulling collapsible flash bang pole 1 backward, collapsible flash bang pole 1 may be used to catch excess material and remove excess material with wings 99. The process of moving the glass shield forward and backward may be repeated as many times as may be desired to remove all the glass and/or solid material that may be preventing the operator from positioning device 105 in the desired position.
After the operator has removed all the glass and/or solid material that may hinder the implementation of device 105, the operator may then deploy device 105 in a desired area. The operator may pull cord 26 disposed about an area of cap 135. Attached to ring 75, pulling cord 26 may remove ring 75 from device 105. With ring 75 removed, device 105 may arm itself and deploy according to specifications related to device 105 (i.e., explode, setting off the flash). After deployment of device 105, the operator may then remove collapsible flash bang pole 1 from the targeted area. Collapsible flash bang pole 1 may then be rearmed with an additional device 105 and deployed again, or collapsed for storage and future use.
Although the present invention and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations may be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
