DETERRENT DEVICE ACCESSORY

Abstract

Accessories for a deterrent device having an accessory mounting projecting from a support by a mounting projection distance along a mounting projection axis are provided. In one aspect, an accessory has an electronics module having an electronic system and a mounting portion adapted to engage to the accessory mounting with the mounting portion extending along the mounting projection axis by an accessory lateral projection distance when engaged to the accessory mounting and with the mounting portion positioning the electronics module so that the electronics module to extends along an axis parallel to the orthogonal axis by a lateral extent and is positioned by the mounting adjacent to the accessory mounting with the mounting portion having an accessory mounting projection distance is less than the projection mounting projection distance.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/482,024 filed Apr. 5, 2017.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

N/A

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Electronic devices for use with firearms and other deterrent devices.

DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

The use of accessories including but not limited to lights and aiming lasers with deterrent devices such as firearms, crossbows, compressed gas projectile devices, chemical dispersants and other hand held deterrent devices is increasingly popular. Accordingly, many deterrent devices now incorporate standardized accessory mounts such as Picatinny rails, Weaver rails, the M-Lok system promulgated by Magpul Industries, Austin, Tex., USA, the Key-Mod system promulgated by VLTOR Weapon Systems, Tucson, Ariz., and other kinds of mounting systems. This, in turn, allows a designer of an accessory to design a single rail mounting system that can be used with any gun or other deterrent device having such a standard accessory mount. Such standard mounts also allow other accessories to be removed and transferred between deterrent devices, generally with as little adjustment to the firearm or deterrent device as possible.

It will be appreciated, that where a firearm or other deterrent device provides more than one mounting such as a rail system 20 of the type shown in FIG. 1, it becomes possible to position additional devices to the firearm or deterrent device and to select from a plurality of different orientations for mounting such accessories relative to an orientation of the deterrent device. For example, FIG. 1 shows a deterrent device 10 in the form of a firearm having rail system 20 installed thereon and FIG. 2 shows a front, top, right side partial view of such a rail system 20 separated from firearm 10.

In the example of FIGS. 1 and 2, rail system 20 has a support 30 that extends around barrel 12 and provides a top mounting rail 22, a right side mounting rail 24, a left side mounting rail 26 and a bottom mounting rail 28 arranged in opposing pairs and equally spaced from a barrel 12 of firearm 10. Accessories can be mounted to any of top rail 22, left side rail 24, right side rail 26 and bottom mounting rail 28 so that such accessories can be positioned in a desired orientation and location relative to firearm 10. Other examples of rail system 20 may have as few as a single mounting rail. In this example, rail system 20 is separable from firearm 10 but mountable thereto. However, in other examples a rail mounting may be integrally formed such as being composed of a common substrate with one or more components of firearm 10 or other deterrent device.

Mounting rails such as top rail 22, right side rail 24, left side rail 26 and bottom rail 28 are illustrated extending along a longitudinal axis 33 and can have mountings 32 in any of a variety of cross-sections transverse to longitudinal axis 33. For example, a cross-section of mounting rails 22, 24, 26, and 28 can include, but is not limited to, a dovetail rail such as a Weaver, Picatinny, Stanag or NATO rail. Here, top rail 22, right side rail 24, left side rail 26 and bottom rail 28 are illustrated having the conventional configuration of a Picatinny rail. In this example, top mounting rail 22, right side mounting rail 24, left side mounting rail 26 and bottom rail 28 are illustrated as having a common configuration. To simplify the following discussion of some of the features of the Picatinny rails used in rail system 20 these features will be discussed with reference to right side rail 24 only however, it will be appreciated that in this example, any other rails of rail system 20 will have similar features.

As shown in FIG. 2, right side Picatinny type mounting rail 24 has a generally T-shaped cross-section profile with a pedestal 40 (forming the base of the T), having side walls 42, 44 and an overhanging platform 46 (forming the crossbar of the T) that has pairs of tapered opposing sidewalls 48 and 50 and 52 and 54 extending along the longitudinal axis of each rail.

Opposing sidewalls 48 and 50, and 52 and 54 out of right side mounting rail 24 are spaced apart along an axis that is orthogonal and transverse to longitudinal axis 33. Here, opposing sidewalls 48 and 50 and 52 and 54 are spaced apart along an elevational axis 35 and formed as compound surfaces having opposing V-shaped profiles with respective apices 56, 58 and are aligned along the transverse axis and interconnected by an end wall 60. By way of contrast, in this example opposing sidewalls of top mounting rails 22 and bottom mounting rail 28 are spaced apart along lateral axis 37.

The V-shaped profiles of sidewalls 48 and 50, and 52 and 54 are engageable by mating surfaces of receptors (not shown) for attaching accessories to side walls 48, 50, 52 and 54 and may also be dimensioned to provide clearance for engaging the receptors.

As is also seen in FIG. 2, right side mounting rail 24 can include a plurality of recoil grooves 62. Recoil grooves 62 extend generally transverse to longitudinal axis 33 and are selected to provide surfaces into which surfaces of an accessory can be located to inhibit forward and aft movement of an accessory along longitudinal axis 33. Recoil grooves 62 are usually disposed at equal intervals along longitudinal axis 33.

Also shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 are ventilation openings 38 in rail system 20 that allow air to flow past a heated barrel 12 of firearm barrel 10 during use so that this heated air is not trapped by rail system 20 so that heating of barrel 12 or rail system 20 is limited.

FIGS. 3 and 4 show an example of one arrangement of a combined deterrent platform 8 having firearm 10 and a quad rail type mounting system 20, rail covers 64 and 66, a sight 68, and a foregrip 70. In combined weapon platform 8, foregrip 70 and rail cover 64 are shown mounted to bottom rail 28, while laser 80 and rail cover 66 are mounted to right side rail 24, and a sight 68 is mounted to top rail 22. Left side rail 26 is uncovered. Foregrip 70 has a grip portion 72, a pressure switch 74, a light 76 and a wired connector 78. In this embodiment, connector 78 extends along grip portion 72 and travels forward to laser 80 so that when a user grips grip portion 72 a signal travels through wired connector 78 to laser 80 causing laser 80 to change state for example from an active state to a inactive state. A separate activator (not shown) may be provided to activate light 76.

It will be observed that wired connector 78 is positioned proximate to but not within foregrip 70. This creates a snagging risk when a user attempts to grasp grip portion 72 and further creates a snagging risk when firearm 10 moved. To limit the extent of this risk, a portion of wired connector 78 is arranged between cover 66 and rail system 20.

Combined deterrent platform 8 can also be difficult to move. As an initial matter, combined deterrent platform 8 is heavier than deterrent device 10 without rail system 20 and without accessories mounted thereto. Additionally, combined deterrent platform 8 has a substantial mass positioned away from the body of a user, at a longitudinal end of combined weapon system 8, and also away from a central axis of barrel 12 of firearm type deterrent device 10 along lateral axis 37. The additional mass in this locations alters the design in balance of the deterrent device creating torsional and longitudinal forces that work against operation of combined weapon system 8. This makes it more challenging for a user carry combined deterrent platform 8, to hold combined deterrent platform 8 during use and to aim with precision. This also makes it more challenging for a user to manage inertial forces that are experienced when attempting to start or to stop movement of combined deterrent system 8. Further, the presence of additional mass at this locations can create control challenges to the extent that they create additional vibration and recoil forces that must be dance and managed during responses during discharge or release of projected material or directed energy from combined a deterrent system 8.

Additionally, the size of combined deterrent system 8 along elevational axis 35 and lateral axis 37 creates difficulties in moving combined deterrent system 8 along a lateral swing path 86 and an elevational swing path 86 respectively. For example, when a user wishes to move combined deterrent platform 8 along a side to side or lateral sweep path 90, the user must find an unobstructed path along which combined weapon system 8 can be moved. However, as is shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, combined deterrent platform 8 has a significant axial profile 90 that makes finding an unobstructed path for lateral movement at least in part along lateral swing path 86 more challenging. Similarly, when a user wishes to move combined weapon platform 8 along an elevational sweep path 86 the user must find an unobstructed path along which combined weapon system 8 can be moved and as is shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, combined deterrent platform 8 has a significant lateral profile 92 that makes finding an unobstructed path for axial movement along axial sweep path 88 more challenging to find. This too restricts the ability of a user to shift a position of the combined deterrent system 8.

In general, lateral profile 92 is defined by any combination of surfaces that occupy space that would interfere with movement along axial sweep path 88. Here lateral profile 92 is defined in part by width of mounting system 20 which, as shown here, extends along lateral axis 37 from a lateral end of left side mounting rail 26 to a lateral end of right side mounting rail 24. Additionally, in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 4, laser 50 is mounted in-line with right side mounting rail 24.

This arrangement increases the risk that laser 80 will strike obstructions during use of combined deterrent system 8 potentially compromising the operation and alignment of laser 80 relative to mounting 20 and firearm type deterrent device 10. Lateral profile 92 is also defined, in part, by an extent to which combined weapon system 8 projects along lateral axis 37 on a left side of combined deterrent system 8. Along this direction the extent is defined by the location of an end wall 60 of left side mounting rail 26.

Additionally, an aperture 82 of laser 80 is separated from a central axis of barrel 12 by a parallax distance 98. Accordingly, aiming beam 84 of laser 80 cannot be emitted along a path that is parallel and in alignment with a discharge axis of barrel 12. Instead, beam 84 is aimed to intersect discharge axis of barrel 12 at a predetermined distance from combined deterrent system 8. Beam 56 will also substantially intersect of a point of impact of a projectile or other emission from the deterrent device within a range positions before and after the intersection point. However, the size of the range of positions is inversely proportional to the extent of the distance between an axis of barrel 12 and aperture 82 of laser 80. Thus, the further that aperture 82 or other emission point of beam 84 is positioned apart from the axis of barrel 12, the smaller the range of positions within which beam 84 will substantially intersect with the axis of barrel 12. In the arrangement of FIGS. 3 and 4 parallax distance 98 is significant such that the range of positions within which beam 84 will substantially predict an impact point of a projectile from barrel 12 is relatively small.

Further, complications arise in the use of combined weapon system 8, in that neither light 76 nor laser 80 can be activated unless a user has gripped foregrip 70. This too constrains the ability of the user to move combined weapon system along either or both of lateral sweep path 86 or axial sweep path 88 in that the user has no freedom of choice as to which portion of combined weapon system 8 to grasp or to adjust his or her hold on combined weapon system 8 while also making use of combined weapon system 8.

It will be appreciated that it is known to use lasers or other accessories with rails 60 that have a smaller profile than that illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4. However such approaches typically create other complications such as requiring compromises in durability, features provided or battery capacity.

What is needed therefore is a more integrated solution to one or more of these and other known challenges associated with mounting and activating lasers, illuminators and other accessories to a firearm or other deterrent devices having a rail mounting system. What is also needed is a solution with more intuitive activation and control.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accessories for a deterrent device having an accessory mounting projecting from a support by a mounting projection distance along a mounting projection axis are provided. In one aspect, an accessory has an electronics module having an electronic system and a mounting portion adapted to engage to the accessory mounting with the mounting portion extending along the mounting projection axis by an accessory lateral projection distance when engaged to the accessory mounting and with the mounting portion positioning the electronics module so that the electronics module to extends along an axis parallel to the orthogonal axis by a lateral extent and is positioned by the mounting adjacent to the accessory mounting with the mounting portion having an accessory mounting projection distance is less than the projection mounting projection distance.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a front, right side, top isometric view of a prior art firearm type deterrent device having multi-rail mounting system.

FIG. 2 shows a top right front view of a quad rail type multi-rail mounting system.

FIG. 3 is a view of the firearm of FIG. 1 with a laser, light and rail cover arranged mounted to different rails of the multi-rail system.

FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the firearm of FIG. 1 with a laser, light and rail cover arranged mounted to different rails of the multi-rail system as shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a front schematic view of one embodiment of a firearm accessory.

FIG. 6 is a right side view of the embodiment of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a left side view of the embodiment of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 5 joined to a Picatinny rail that projects from a right side of a rail system of a deterrent device with an embodiment of a mounting system arranged to enable mounting of the deterrent device accessory.

FIG. 9 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 5 joined to a Picatinny rail that projects from a right side of a rail system of a deterrent device with an embodiment of a mounting system arranged with the deterrent device accessory mounted to a rail.

FIG. 10 is a cut away close up view of a portion of a mounting system deterrent device accessory 100 of the embodiments of FIGS. 5-9.

FIG. 11 is a close up elevation view of one embodiment of a deterrent device accessory for a deterrent device having an electronics module and an additional electronics module.

FIG. 12 is a side view of another embodiment of a deterrent device accessory.

FIG. 13 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of a deterrent device accessory and a separate electronics module.

FIG. 14 is a side elevation view of the embodiment of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a frontal system view of the embodiment of FIGS. 5-9 joined to an alternative mounting system.

FIG. 16 shows a front elevation view of a deterrent device accessory mounted to a mounting system of a deterrent device shown here as a firearm with a plurality of presence detection spaces.

FIG. 17 shows a side elevation view a deterrent device accessory mounted to a mounting system of a deterrent device shown here as a firearm with the firearm shown partially cut away and showing a plurality of detection spaces.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The drawings provided herein are provided to illustrate concepts described and claimed. Unless otherwise stated herein the drawings are not necessarily to scale. Additionally, it will be appreciated that there may be variations in the shape and appearance of items shown herein.

FIG. 5 is a front schematic view of one embodiment of a deterrent device accessory 100, while FIG. 6 is a right side view of the embodiment of FIG. 5 and FIG. 7 is a left side view of the embodiment of FIG. 5. FIG. 8 illustrates deterrent device accessory 100 joined to right side mounting rail 24 of a mounting system 20 associated with a deterrent device 10 having a barrel 12. It will be appreciated that the terms top, right side and left side are used with reference to the relative orientation of these sides of this embodiment of deterrent device accessory 100 when this embodiment is connected to a right side mounting rail 24. Such references are not limiting and in other embodiments other configurations and orientations are possible consistent with the principles described herein.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 5-7, deterrent device accessory 100 has an electronics module 110 with a housing 112 holding an electronic system 120 and a mounting portion 130 having a mounting 132 that join to a mounting such as a Picatinny rail, other rail or other mounting and that positions electronics module 110 relative to the mounting. In this embodiment, electronic system 120 has a laser 122 and a laser driver 126 electrically connected to laser 122 by way of one or more electrical connections 124 and is also electrically connected batteries 128 and an accessory controller 140, an accessory sensor system 150, and an optional external interface system 172. Accessory controller 140, accessory sensor system 150 and optional external interface system 172 are illustrated in phantom as being located within mounting portion 130 however in other embodiments any or all of these components of electronic system 120 may be located in electronics module 110.

In embodiments accessory sensor system 150 may comprise an optional main switch 152 and a presence sensing system 154. Main switch 152 may be of a push button type switch that is optionally positioned longitudinally opposite from aperture 82. Other types of switches and other locations can be used for main switch 152.

Accessory controller 140 may be a microprocessor, microcontroller, programmable analog device or other electronic, electro-optical or electro-mechanical device or combination of devices capable receiving input signals from accessory sensor system and causing deterrent device accessory 100 to perform intended functionality including performing any of the functions described herein. In embodiments, controller 140 may be a combination of discrete components.

In the embodiments of FIGS. 5-9 controller 140 is connected to main switch 152 and, in response to a receipt of a change in state signal from main switch 152, controller 140 can transition operation of electronic system 120 from an “off” state to an “on” state. In embodiments the “off” state can take the form of a completely de-powered state of operation or a state where power consumption is substantially reduced such as by reducing a frequency of operation or other power conservation measures, while the “on” state can comprise a state where electronic system 120 actively performs a desired function such as, in this embodiment, emitting a laser beam from laser 122, more actively senses for signals from a presence sensing system 154 before activating such as by increasing a sensing frequency or a sensing range, or initiates any operations necessary to prepare for active operations such as, in this embodiment preparing laser 122 or laser driver 126 for active operation. Other operational states are possible including but not limited to a “test” state where accessory controller 140 causes electronic system 120 to operate in a manner used for testing and calibration and a demonstration mode where accessory controller 140 causes electronic system 120 to operate in a mode intended to show operational features in reduced power forms of operation.

In embodiments, presence sensing system 154 is adapted to sense one or more conditions that may indicate that a hand, finger or other body part of a user is in contact with or is proximate to deterrent device accessory 100. In embodiments presence sensing system 154 may have an optional signal generator 156 and has a presence sensing circuit 157 is provided that senses at least one condition that is indicative of the presence of a hand or other body part of a user is proximate to surface 158 and senses a capacitance between surface 158 and a ground which may be an earth ground or a ground within deterrent device accessory 100.

In this embodiment, signal generator 156 may create a electrostatic field at and about a surface 158 (also shown here in phantom). This electrostatic field extends from surface 158 through outer surface 144 and optionally inner surface 142 and into a space surrounding deterrent device accessory 100. Presence sensing circuit 157 senses capacitance can be within a first range that is different from a second range that presence sensing system 154 will sense sensed when no hand is nearby can be in a different range. Presence sensing circuit 157 provides signals to controller 140 that are indicative of the sensed capacitance from which controller 140 can make decisions regarding operation of electronic system 120. For example, controller 140 can select one or more operational modes of electronic system 120, can cause activation of features of electronic system 120 or make decisions involving electronic system 120 based upon such signals. This can be done, for example as described in commonly assigned patent application Ser. No. 15/383,796 filed Dec. 12, 2016 which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In other embodiments, presence sensing system 154 can sense the presence of a hand or other body part proximate to deterrent device accessory 100 based upon sound or vibrations. For example, in embodiments, presence sensing system 154 can have a signal generator 156 that emits sonic or ultrasonic waves, surface waves, acoustic waves or other wave types and while presence sensing circuit 157 has or is connected to a return of such waves or otherwise sensing air pressure changes proximate to deterrent device accessory 100 that indicate the presence of or removal of a hand from a position that is proximate to or in contact with deterrent device accessory 100.

In still other embodiments, presence sensing system 154 can have one or more exposed electrical conductors at, in, on or above an outer surface 144 of deterrent device accessory 100 with such at least one conductor arranged so that a portion of a user's skin contacting that contacts the conductor will contact the at least one conductor to complete a direct electrical circuit involving the hand of the user. For example, the electrical circuit can provide an electrical path between the conductor, a hand and a ground or between a pair of electrical conductors on surface 136.

In other embodiments, presence sensing system 154 can have a presence sensing circuit 157 that incorporates, for example and without limitation, mechanical pressure switches to sense forces applied against, for example, an outer surface 144 of deterrent device accessory 100. In embodiments of this type sensor circuit 159 can use piezoelectric sensors, dome switches or other pressure sensitive switches, other forms of micro-switches, to detect when a user has applied pressure against outer surface 144 of deterrent device accessory 100.

In further embodiments, presence sensing system 154 may have a sensing circuit 157 that is adapted to detect the presence of a ring, glove or other hand or other wearable device having an active signal generator such as a transmitter or transponder that emits a signal that can be sensed by when the wearable signal generator is proximate to sensor circuit 159. The signal can comprise, for example and without limitation, a visible light signal, an ultraviolet signal, an infra-red light signal, or radio frequency signal, a vibrational, acoustic, sub-sonic or ultrasonic signal generator. Additionally, presence sensing system 154 may sense a ring, glove, or other wearable device having for example and without limitation a passive transponder such as radio frequency passive transponder such as an RFID transponder or a passive Near Field Communication transponder, a passive optical transponder, or a passive vibrational, acoustic, sub-sonic or ultrasonic resonator. Where a passive transponder is used, signal generator 156 generates a signal that supplies an activating energy used by the passive transponder to generate a responsive signal. In such embodiments, presence sensing circuit 157 will have radio frequency, optical, vibrational, sonic or other appropriate sensors arranged to sense a responsive signal.

In further embodiments, presence sensing system 154 can include a presence sensing circuit 157 having a light sensor, or an array of light sensors such as an imager with one or more light sensing elements adapted to sense senses the presence or absence of a part of a body of a user proximate to deterrent device accessory to otherwise sense whether a user is in a position where activation of electronic system 120 is desirable or not based upon reflected, emitted or transmitted light within certain zones relative to deterrent device accessory 100. In embodiments, the light may be of visible wavelengths or wavelengths that are not visible to the human eye. For example, the light sensed may be infrared radiation in the midwave or long wave wavelengths. Where controller 140 or presence sensing system 154 includes an image processor, the image processor may image an area that is proximate to deterrent device accessory 100 to activate or deactivate or change a mode or control parameter of electronic system 120. For example, a controller 140 or presence sensing system 154 may have an image processor that can determine whether a deterrent device is in a storage area, holster or other non-active location or in a position that is likely indicative of use such as where a face, hand, or other body part of a user is visible or where a scene confronting the user of the deterrent device or changes in the scene are indicative of use.

In still other embodiments presence sensing system 154 can include a presence sensing circuit 157 such as least one of an accelerometer, orientation sensor and gyroscope adapted to sense movement of accessory and a signal processor that determines movement patterns associated with the deterrent device and that can discern movement patterns that are indicative of deterrent device and or deterrent device accessory 100 being held for use and/or transitioning to or from a stored position, orientation or location, and that activates deterrent device accessory 100, initiates or terminates a mode of operation of deterrent device accessory 100, or that changes a mode of operation of deterrent device accessory 100 in response to such sensing.

In embodiments presence sensing system 154 can have sensors positioned on any portion of deterrent device accessory 100. Such sensors can be electrically, magnetically or mechanically or otherwise connected or coupled to components of mounting system 20 to allow components of mounting system 20 to carry or emit signals from created by signal generator 156 or to receive or convey energy, signals or other indicia of physical, thermal, electrical or electromagnetic conditions in a manner that presence sensing circuit 157 can use to determine presence of a hand or other part of a body of a user that is proximate to or in contact with mounting system 20. In embodiments, presence sensing system 154 can have sensors that can be, for example and without limitation electrically, electromagnetically, thermally or mechanically or otherwise connected or coupled, to components of mounting system 20 to allow components of mounting system 20 to carry or receive by signal generator 156 or to receive or convey energy, signals or other indicia of, for example and without limitation, electrical, electromagnetic, electrostatic, thermal or mechanical or other conditions in a manner that presence sensing circuit 157 can use to determine presence of a body or portion of a body in one or more detection areas proximate to deterrent device accessory 100.

External interface system 190 can take many forms but in general may comprise any known input capable of detecting or receiving input signals from outside of deterrent device accessory 100, any known output system capable of generating output signals that can be sensed outside of deterrent device accessory 100. In embodiments, external interface system 190 can take the form of a power system that can be incorporated into mounting portion 130 or into electronics module 110 and may include as any of one or more battery receptors, fuel cells, or power generation units such as solar, Peltier or piezo-electric or other devices capable of changing electromagnetic, solar, mechanical, thermal or other forms of energy into electrical energy of a type that can be used by electronic system 120. For example, in the embodiment of FIGS. 5-9, an opening or window 192 can be provided in outer surface 144 of mounting portion 130 through which solar radiation can pass to photovoltaic cell which can supply such power to circuitry that controllably charges batteries 128 or other storage batteries. External interface 190 may be adapted to establish power exchanging electrical connection between deterrent device accessory 100 and other devices to receive or provide electrical power, signals or data and may include for example a port 194 for such purposes. Port 194 can also be used to supply power to a deterrent device or to other electronic devices. Port 194 can take any form and may be located in any position on deterrent device accessory 100. In other embodiments any components described herein as being located in mounting portion 130 may be positioned in other locations such in a portion of electronics module 110. External interface system 190 can also include input sensors such as buttons, keys, presence sensors, capacitive or resistive sensing, voice recognition or other technologies.

In embodiments, external interface system 190 can provide outputs such as video or other displays upon which variable content can be presented. In one embodiment, external interface system 190 can have a window 192 that substantially covers outer surface 144 to reveal a display that is used to form adaptive or programmable camouflage patterns or alternatively to identify a user. Other patterns and information can be presented using external interface system 190.

Mounting portion 130, in turn, has a mounting system 132 adapted to engage and hold deterrent device accessory 100 to a mounting on a deterrent device such as, in this embodiment a Picatinny type rail. In particular, as shown in FIG. 8, opposed mounting surfaces 134 and 136 are arranged to be moved from a position shown in FIG. 8 where mounting surfaces 134 and 136 are separated by an extent is larger than a distance between apeces 56 and 58 of overhanging platform 46 when mounting or dismounting deterrent device accessory 100 to a position shown in FIG. 9 where mounting surfaces 134 and 136 are separated by a distance that is less than a distance between apeces 56 and 58 to engage at least overhang side walls 48 and 54 and optionally overhang side walls 50 and 52 so that mounting system 132 can hold deterrent device accessory 100 in to right side mounting rail 24 in a generally fixed position relative to a elevational axis 35 and lateral axis 37.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5-9, mounting surfaces 134 and 136 are formed as part of two illustrated resilient members 164 that are held to mounting portion 130 by screws 160 and nuts 162. Screws 160 pass through a passages 166 of mounting portion 130 and through a resilient member 164 to engage nut 162.

When there is a loose connection between screws 160 and nuts 162 as shown in FIG. 8, resilient members expands to separate mounting surfaces 134 and 136 for mounting or dismounting deterrent device accessory 100. However, as is shown in FIG. 9, when screws 160 are tightened against nuts 162 an overhanging portion of screws 160 comes into contact with shoulders 168 of passages 166 such that further tightening of screws 160 draws resilient members 164 against inner surfaces 142 of mounting portion 130 causing resilient members 164 to deflect in a manner that brings mounting surfaces 132 and 134 closer together to engage side walls 50 and 54 and optionally side walls 48 and 52 of right side mounting rail 24.

Additionally, in embodiments, deterrent device accessory 100 may include a structure such as a recoil resistance structure 170 that can engage a recoil groove 36 of right side mounting rail 24 to limit an extent to which deterrent device accessory 100 can move along longitudinal axis 33 relative to a Picatinny type mounting rail. Similarly other mountings have recoil resistance structures and mating structures may be integrated into the deterrent device accessory.

As can be seen in FIGS. 5-9 when deterrent device accessory 100 is joined to right side mounting rail 24, the combination has a combined lateral profile 180 extending between a outer surface 220 of left side rail 26 and deterrent device accessory 100 shown here as outer surface 144 of deterrent device accessory 100. For the reasons noted above, with respect to FIGS. 1-4 it is preferred that this combination have a combined lateral profile 180 that is as small as is practicable and as is shown, in the embodiments of FIGS. 5-9 this goal is met in part by using mounting portion 130 to secure deterrent device accessory 100 to right side mounting rail 24 while also positioning electronics module 110 in space that is laterally adjacent to right side mounting rail 24.

The advantages of this arrangement can be better defined with reference to FIG. 10, which is a cut away close up of a portion of mounting system 20 showing right side mounting rail 24 and deterrent device accessory 100 of FIGS. 5-9 mounted thereto. As can be seen in FIG. 10, when mounting portion 130 is configured to position at least a portion of electronics module 110 is within a lateral space that is within a mounting projection distance 200 of a mounting from a support to which the mounting is joined. For example, in FIG. 10, mounting projection distance 200 is shown extending from support 21 to which right side mounting rail 24 is mounted to an outer surface 222 of right side mounting rail 24.

As is also shown in FIG. 10, positioning at least a portion of a lateral extent 212 of electronics module 110 within mounting projection distance 200 reduces or eliminates the contribution of components of electronic system 120 and any other components of deterrent device accessory 100 located within electronics module 110 to lateral projection distance 208. In this way, components electronic system 120 having significant lateral lengths can be used in deterrent device accessory 100 with little or no impact on the combined lateral profile 180 of deterrent device accessory 100.

It will be appreciated that mounting portion 130 can contribute to combined lateral projection distance 180 by adding an accessory lateral projection distance 208. Accessory lateral projection distance 208 can be a distance between an outer surface 144 of deterrent device accessory 100 and an outer surface 222 of right side mounting rail 24 when deterrent device accessory 100 is mounted thereto. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, accessory lateral projection distance 208 is smaller than lateral extent 212 of electronics module 110 and can be for example and without limitation less than 75% of a lateral extent 212.

Accordingly, a combination of a deterrent device, mounting and deterrent device accessory 100 can be provided having lateral space available to components of electronic system 120 while still providing significant degree of freedom of movement along an elevational axis 35. Similar, results can be achieved with mountings that project along other axes such as for example, a mounting such as top rail 22 or bottom rail 28 that project along elevational axis 35, or mountings that project along any other axis.

The opportunity to use the additional lateral space can allow use of components including but not limited to illumination reflectors, imagers, optical components, laser systems, laser alignment systems such as windage and elevation correction systems and power supplies, shock and vibration mountings, and other components that are useful in a deterrent device accessory and that can be made more effective, more efficient, more cost effective, less complex or easier to manufacture, test, maintain, service or repair because reduced size components are not used in an effort to reduce an overall lateral profile.

Additionally, it will be appreciated that there may be embodiments where the effectiveness or efficiency of an electronic system 120 may be improved by the use of components of comparatively large lateral size. For example, and without limitation, it will be appreciated that in an electronic system 120 that provides scene illumination, it may be desirable to provide a narrow divergence, high illumination beam that can be used for extended periods. Here, the positioning of portions of electronic system 120 in lateral space adjacent to a mounting such as right side rail mounting 24 can be leveraged to allow larger illuminators and larger reflectors to be used with little or no impact on lateral projection distance 208.

Similarly, it will be appreciated that a deterrent device accessory 100 can make use of components such as lenses, imagers, and other components that may advantageously have a lateral extent or a cross-sectional arear without creating the aiming, handling and maneuverability challenges associated with similar devices that are mounted in line with a direction of projection of a mounting. Further, deterrent device accessory 100 can offer performance, cost, manufacturability and service advantages. Additional functionality and features may also be provided.

For example, larger batteries can be used that are less expensive, more powerful and easier to manipulate during loading and unloading. In another example, larger illumination reflectors and optics can have advantages when used in certain applications. In embodiments, this arrangement may make it possible to incorporate lenses, imagers, batteries, and other components of electronic system 120 having a substantial cross-sectional area without creating the aiming, handling and maneuverability challenges associated with similar devices that are mounted in line with a direction of projection of a mounting. Further deterrent device accessory 100 can offer performance, cost, manufacturability and service advantages. Additional, functionality and features may also be provided.

Additionally, as is shown in FIG. 10 a parallax distance 230 from a center of a barrel 12 or other point of discharge, projection or emission of a deterrent device to an aperture 74 of an electronic system 120 such as a laser aiming device is reduced as compared a distance (not shown) from the center of a barrel 12 to an aperture of a similar laser (not shown) joined to a mounting in a manner that extends substantially along an axis of the mounting projection (such as lateral axis 37 in the case of right side rail mounting 24) as such an aperture must be mounted at least beyond a bore to mounting distance 202 from the center of barrel 12 to outer surface 222 of a mounting such as right side mounting rail 24. By using a smaller parallax distance, the distance over which a beam from deterrent device accessory 100 can be substantially aligned with a path of travel of a projected material, object or energy from a deterrent device over a greater distance.

Further, it will be appreciated a center of mass of electronics module 110 is positioned as described may be closer to a center of the deterrent device such that there may be reduced imbalance caused by the addition of deterrent device accessory 100 and need to resist torsion caused by such imbalance may be lower making aiming and control of the combination easier.

In circumstances where, as here, support 21 is curved, sloped or otherwise directed laterally away from a portion of support 21 to which a mounting portion 130 is joined, additional lateral space 204 adjacent to support 21 may be available within which a portion of a lateral extent 212 of electronics module 110 may be positioned. The availability of additional lateral space 204 can be used to reduce or to eliminate an extent to which electronics module 110 or components of electronic system 120 contributes combined lateral profile 180, may enable greater flexibility in the selection of larger components or additional components.

For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5-10, controller 140, accessory sensor system 150, main switch 152 and presence sensing system 154 are illustrated as optionally being located in mounting portion 130. However, in embodiments, electronics module 110 may hold all components of electronic system 120.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 5-9, electronics module 110 has been shown positioned proximate to ventilation opening 38 of mounting system 20. In embodiments electronics module 110 may be sized and shaped to ensure that heated air flow through ventilation opening 38 is not impeded such as being positioned and shaped not to substantially block, trap or impede the movement of heated air through a proximate ventilation opening. For example, in this embodiment, electronics module 110 is shaped and positioned in a manner that would allow substantially all heated air to move from inside support 21 to outside support 21. However, in other embodiments active system module can be arranged to be positioned proximate to a ventilation opening 38 that is below barrel 12 so that electronics module 110 is not in the path of heated air.

Alternate embodiments are possible. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 11 deterrent device accessory 100 having a mounting portion 130 that is linked to an electronics module 110 and that may include, in general any of the embodiments described above with reference to FIGS. 4-9 and is also linked to an additional electronics module 240. In this embodiment, mounting portion 130 is configured to position at least a substantial portion of electronics module 240 within mounting projection distance 200 of a mounting such as right side mounting rail 24. Here too this arrangement can be used to enable additional components of either an electronic system 120 or an additional electronics module 240 to interact therewith. In the example of FIG. 11, additional electronics module 240 is linked to mounting portion 130 to support an additional electronic system 242. Here additional electronic system 242 includes a reflector 244, a light emitter 246, and an optional illuminator driver 248 and optional additional batteries 128 which may be the same or different than batteries 128 used in electronics module 110.

In embodiments, electronics module 110 and additional electronics module 240 may be formed from one or more common substrates with mounting portion 130 so as to provide an integral structure or may have as shown in FIG. 11 independent housings such as housing 112 and housing 238 to which mounting portion 130 is mechanically associated.

In other embodiments, either or both of electronic system housing 120 and additional electronics module 240 may be packaged in a modular form such as by using distinct housings so that electronics module 110 and additional electronics module 240 can removed, added or have their positions reversed depending on the needs of the user. For example, in FIG. 13 what is shown is a modular type of mounting portion having a mounting connector 260 adapted to connect to a connector 262 of electronic system housing 120 and a mounting connector 270 adapted to connect to a connector 272 of additional electronics module 240.

Mounting connectors 260 and 270 are adapted to mount at least to connector 262 and connector 272 respectively to provide mechanical and any other desired connections between mounting portion 130, second set electron modules that are generally commonly designed such as for example a user may select one of the set of electronics modules for use as electronics module 110 and optionally may select another of the set of electronic system modules for use as an additional electronics module 240.

Also shown in FIG. 13 is a further electronics module 280 which may have an electronic system 282 that is adapted to capture images. Here electronic system 282 includes an optical system 283, imager driver 284, image processor 286, internal memory 288 and communication system 290. Further, electronic system housing 280 has a connector 292 that can be mounted to at least one of connector 260 in place of either electronics module 110 and mounting connector 270 or in place of additional electronics module 240. This enables a common mounting portion 130 to be used with a variety of different types of electronics packages and to quickly and efficiently adapt a deterrent device such as firearm 10 for such purposes.

Example electronics modules that can be used with deterrent device accessory 100 can include but are not limited to Global Positioning System or other satellite or other positioning or navigation systems, dedicated communications modules adapted to enable as telecommunication, satellite communication, point to point or other communications, device integration systems that use wireless communications to exchange data with local devices such as smart phones and other personal devices for example to provide data detected by a remote device to a user of the deterrent device accessory 100 or to provide data available at the deterrent device accessory 100 to a remote device.

Electronics modules 110, 240 or 280 can also include sensor packages that can perform functions such as sensing environmental conditions indicative of a threat to a user such as directed energy such as is used in targeting and aiming, electromagnetic fields, artificial illumination, the presence of chemical, biological or nuclear threats, mines, drones or any other potential threat to a user, or sensor systems useful in game detection such as infrared light sensors and sound sensors, range finders, shot counters, and wind direction and intensity sensors and other sensing systems relevant to aiming a firearm. In embodiments, an electronic system may include a sender device such as a beacon that identifies a holder of the deterrent device either by a unique identifier or as a member of a group.

FIG. 13 is an end view and FIG. 14 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 12 with further electronics module 280 positioned within a lateral mounting projection distance 200 but longitudinally arranged relative to an end wall 60 of right side mounting rail 24 along longitudinal axis 33 as is illustrated in FIG. 14. Optionally still further electronic modules (not shown) can be at an opposite longitudinal end of deterrent device accessory 100.

In embodiments, electronic modules may include modules that provide sound amplifiers for communication or for non-lethal deterrence. Additionally electronics modules 110, 240 or 280 can include non-lethal weapon systems such as those that emit materials including but not limited to pepper spray, liquids, dyes, gels, and powders as well those that create an electrical path between deterrent device accessory 100 and a target and that deliver an electric shock to the target.

As is also shown in a frontal system view in FIG. 15, the embodiment of FIGS. 5-9 may be joined to other forms of mounting systems such as a slotted mounting system 310 shown as an M-LOK mounting system developed by Magpul Industries. As is shown in FIG. 15, when mounting deterrent device accessory 100 to an M-LOK type mounting 310, screws 312 replace screws 160 in passage 166 of deterrent device accessory 100 of FIGS. 5-9 and through a slot 314 in mounting system 310 to join to a recoil mitigation plug 316. Screws 312 and recoil mitigation plug 316 are then tightened to hold deterrent device accessory 100 against sidewalls of slot 314. In such an embodiment, passages 166 may be separated by a predetermined distance useful for mounting to the geometries of such an M-LOK mounting system 310. Additionally, it will be appreciated that screws 160 shown in FIGS. 5-9 may have a different diameter than screws 312 with passages 166 being dimensioned for the larger of two screw types. Any other features necessary for M-LOK mounting may also be incorporated on inner surface 142 or elsewhere on deterrent device accessory 100. It will be appreciated that in this way, a common mounting portion can be used to mount deterrent device accessory 100 to either of the M-LOK type of mounting system 20 shown in FIG. 15 and Picatinny type mounting system.

In other embodiments, deterrent device accessory 100 may be adapted with connectors appropriate for use in mounting to other mounting systems including but not limited to the Weaver rail or the Key-Mod system created by VLTOR Weapon Systems, Tucson, Ariz., USA, Stanag or NATO rail mounting systems.

In still other embodiments, deterrent device accessory 100 may be adapted for use with mounting systems 20 having power supplies, power generators, data storage, data generation, transmission systems and connectors for transferring power, data or other signals between at least one of deterrent device accessory 100 and such devices located in mounting system 20, between deterrent device accessory 100 and other deterrent device accessories mounted to mounted to such a mounting system, and between a deterrent device 10 and other devices mounted to mounting system 20. For example, deterrent device accessory 100 may have a port 194 that is adapted to connect to a mounting rail assembly mountable on a firearm having an electrically insulating mounting rail body having a longitudinal axis and including a mounting rail and a receptor channel, the mounting rail extending along the longitudinal axis with a plurality of electrically insulated electrical contacts exposed to an outer surface of the mounting rail body, the electrical contacts including an electrical input contact and at least a first and a second electrical output contact. Each of the electrical contacts is configured to provide power and data transmission; and an electrical conductor embedded within the mounting rail body, the electrical conductor electrically connecting the plurality of electrical contacts for the transmission of power and data. One example of such a mounting system can be found for example in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 8,413,362, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

It will be appreciated that in multi-mounting systems it is possible to join more than one deterrent device accessory 100 to a mounting system 20. In embodiments, deterrent device accessory 100 can be adapted to cooperate with at least one additional deterrent device accessory 100 that is also joined to mounting system 20. In this regard, deterrent device accessories 100 can be connected physically or virtually to exchange signals which may be in analog or digital form for any purpose including but not limited to exchanging image information, targeting information, control information, information regarding sensed conditions. Power may also be shared. Such connections can be made by way of a bridging connection between deterrent device accessories which may take the form of a component of deterrent device accessory or the mounting system. Communications and data transmission can also be wireless.

Where a deterrent device accessory 100 is used proximate to the barrel 12 of a firearm it may be necessary to protect electronics or other components of a deterrent device accessory 100. In embodiments, a heat shield may be positioned between heat sensitive components of deterrent device accessory 100 and the source of heat. Such a heat shield may be used to absorb, reflect, redirect such heat so that the heat does not damage deterrent device accessory 100. In embodiments, a external interface system 190 may include a Peltier generator positioned between the barrel and at least some portions of deterrent device accessory. Here, the temperature difference between a side of the Peltier generator facing the heat and a side of the Peltier generator facing in an opposite direction can be used to generate electricity.

In embodiments presence sensing system 154 can be adapted to detect and to discriminate a presence or a hand, part of a hand or other body part in any a plurality of positions relative to deterrent device accessory 100. For example and without limitation, in embodiments, FIGS. 16 and 17 respectively show a front and side elevation views of a deterrent device accessory 100, mounted to a mounting system 20 of a deterrent device shown here as a firearm 10. In FIG. 17, firearm 10 is shown partially cut away. As is shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, presence sensing system 154 can be arranged to sense conditions indicative of a presence in one of a plurality of detection spaces 350 relative to deterrent device accessory 100. This can be done for example and without limitation by providing a presence sensing circuit 157 with one sensor positioned to sense conditions in each location or by providing a smaller plurality of sensors and interpolating results based upon signals received by each sensor. In embodiments presence sensing system 154 can have sensors positioned on any portion of deterrent device accessory 100 and can be, for example and without limitation electrically, electromagnetically, thermally or mechanically or otherwise connected or coupled, to components of mounting system 20 to allow components of mounting system 20 to carry or receive by signal generator 156 or to receive or convey energy, signals or other indicia of, for example and without limitation, electrical, electromagnetic, electrostatic, thermal or mechanical or other conditions in a manner that presence sensing circuit 157 can use to determine presence of a body or portion of a body in one or more detection areas proximate to deterrent device accessory 100. Such signals may be created or received in mounting system 20 or in a deterrent device to which mounting system 20 is joined.

In such embodiments, at least one of controller 140 and presence sensing system 154 can be adapted to determine which of the plurality of detection spaces has a presence therein and to use this information in operating deterrent device accessory 100. For example, the patterns of presence detected can be used to characterize the sensed presence of a part of a user's body. Such characterizations can be used to better discriminate between conditions that are indicative of intentional actuation or grasping of a deterrent device, mounting system 20 or deterrent device accessory 100 and conditions that are indicative of incidental contact with a part of a person's body such as where firearm 10 is carried against the body in a holster or using a strap. Such characterizations may also indicate a way in which any of deterrent device accessory 100, mounting system 20 and a deterrent device such as firearm 10 is being grasped.

In embodiments, different patterns of sensed presence may cause deterrent device accessory 100 to operate in different ways or may cause deterrent device accessory to cease operations. In embodiments, a user can, for example, calibrate deterrent device accessory 100 to recognize one or more presence pattern used by the user with different presence patterns being associated with different modes of operation or in operation. Additionally, in embodiments deterrent device accessory can be programmable by a user, or adaptively programmable using an algorithm to ignore or reduce the weight given to the detection of presence in specific ones of detection spaces 350 in terms of characterizing sensed presence or making decisions based on sensed presence. Presence sensing may be based not only on sensed patterns of presence at a given time but also upon changes in such sensing over a period of time. Such changes in presence may for example be used to indicate activation or mode selection through particular transitions of hand or finger presence over time. For example, and without limitation, controller 140 may make determinations about activation of particular electronic systems based upon changes in sensed presence in one or more detection areas over a period of time such as to detect a finger making a tapping motion. In one example of this, controller 140 or presence sensing system 154 may have detection zone associated with a position where a finger may be found and may be adapted to sense a lifting of a finger and replacement of the finger, as indicated by a presence detection, loss of presence detection, and return to presence detection within a predetermined period of time. This can be used for example to activate an illuminator or to deactivate an already active illuminator.

Additionally, transient patterns of presence within one or more sensing spaces over a period of time may be sensed and used to identify security, identification, deactivation or activation gestures or movements so as to help prevent unintended or unauthorized operation of deterrent device accessory 100. In embodiments, controller 140 or presence sensing system 154 may be programmed so that presence or patterns of presence/absence over time in particular detection spaces 350 is associated with user or application determined functions. In embodiments having removable, replaceable or modular electronic system housings such as electronics modules 110, 240 and 280 controller 140 or presence sensing system 154 may determine how to react to particular presence/absence patterns in detection spaces 350 based upon a determination of the functionality of electronic systems in such housings. Additionally, in embodiments having modularly electronics modules, the electronic systems contained therein may include a memory that can communicate information, algorithms, data and functions to controller 140 or presence sensing system 154 that can be used by controller 140 or presence sensing system 154 in characterizing patterns of presence and absence in detection spaces 350 and what responses are to be made to such sensing.

In embodiments, presence sensing system 154 may be used to sense patterns of presence or changes in a pattern of presence over time in response to which controller 140 can cause an audio system which may be in one of electronic system housing and mounting 130-convey particular words or phrases which may or may not be in the language of the user of the deterrent device 10 that is combined with deterrent device accessory 100 but which may be in an expected language of a person with whom the user of deterrent device 10 is seeking to communicate. Other forms of signals may be used in response to such gesture detection for example color coded illumination, activation of aiming systems, presentation of graphic or textual warnings on a external interface 190 or by an external device.

Additionally, in embodiments, additional presence sensing circuit 157 may include individual sensors that are provided in or on electronics module such as electronics module 110 as may controller 140 and presence sensing system 154 such that presence sensing may be performed by sensors in or on the electronic system housings.

As is also shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, in embodiments any of electronic system housing 120, additional electronics module 240, or further electronics module 300 may include one or more than one electronic system, input, output or combination. For example further electronics module 300 is shown in this embodiment with two openings 302 and 304 which in this embodiment allow light to reach a visible light imager 306 and an infrared imager 308 such as a thermal imager.

Other embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. An accessory for a deterrent device having an accessory mounting projecting from a support by a mounting projection distance along a mounting projection axis; the accessory comprising:

an electronics module having an electronic system;

a mounting portion adapted to engage to the accessory mounting with the mounting portion extending along the mounting projection axis by an accessory lateral projection distance when engaged to the accessory mounting and with the mounting portion positioning the electronics module so that the electronics module to extends along an axis parallel to the orthogonal axis by a lateral extent and is positioned by the mounting adjacent to the accessory mounting;

wherein the mounting portion has an accessory mounting projection distance is less than the projection mounting projection distance.

2. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the lateral projection distance is smaller than 75% of the lateral projection distance.

3. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the lateral projection distance is smaller than about 33% of the lateral projection distance.

4. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the electronic system emits a beam of low divergence light and wherein the electronic system is positioned along the orthogonal axis within the first extent to reduce an extent of parallax between the discharge axis of the deterrent device and the beam.

5. The accessory of claim 1, wherein a surface of the support is directed at least in part away from the direction along which accessory mount extends from support along the projection axis and wherein the mounting positions the electronics module at least in part adjacent to the surface.

6. The accessory of claim 1, wherein a surface of the support to which the accessory mount is joined is directed at least in part away from the direction along which accessory mount extends from support, wherein the electronics module extends along an axis parallel to the projection axis by a maximum extent that is greater than the combination of the mounting projection distance and the accessory lateral projection distance an and wherein the mounting positions the electronics module at least in part adjacent to the surface.

7. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the mounting portion includes at least a part of a sensing system of the electronic system adapted to detect the presence of a portion of a human body proximate to an outer surface of the mounting portion.

8. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the mounting portion includes at least a part of an external interface system of the electronic system that can be sensed by a user.

9. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the deterrent device comprises a firearm that discharges projectiles through a barrel orthogonal to the projection axis and the wherein the mounting is shaped to enable heated air to flow through the mounting.