Practice Patents (Class 102/498)
  • Patent number: 12066275
    Abstract: The present invention is generally related to paint ball firing devices. More specifically, the present invention is related to paintball land mines, which can fire multiple paintballs simultaneously and methods of making and using same. Furthermore, the present invention is capable of allowing the device to be disassembled (i.e., field serviceable) and provides a range of combustion chambers, barrel assemblies, and cartridges to be used in the device. In this manner, a wide range of projectile types and feet per second (f.p.s.) projectiles can be used in the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2023
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2024
    Inventor: Paul R. Coates
  • Patent number: 11662189
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a network connected training projectile that provides user feedback and is used to determine a trainee's proximity to an appropriately sized explosive blast zone. The invention solves the unmet need for close combat indirect fire (mortars and grenade launchers), or hand grenades which can be safely used in live training exercises. The invention further solves that such use is interactive with the training environment providing the ability to calculate the extent personnel participating in a training exercise would be affected by the training grenade in a real-life scenario. The invention further determines mortality of participants who would have been affected by the training grenade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Assignee: Serious Simulations, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher Chambers
  • Patent number: 11639844
    Abstract: The invention relates to a penetrating and explosive projectile (1) provided with a trajectory-stabilizing fin assembly (8) which is secured to a body of the projectile by a mechanical connection. The fin assembly (8) includes a tapped tube (14) which engages on a threaded rear cylindrical shank (10) of a tail (9) connected to the projectile body (2), thereby forming a threaded mechanical connection (13) between the tail unit (8) and the body (2). This projectile (1) is characterized in that it includes means ensuring the fragilization of the threaded connection (13) on impact on a target, the fin assembly then separating from the projectile body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2023
    Assignee: NEXTER MUNITIONS
    Inventor: Julien Pavier
  • Patent number: 11604053
    Abstract: A digitally controlled hand-tossable explosive delivery receptacle comprises a ruggedized reusable compartment enclosing a digital circuit and a disposable cartridge holding one or more explosive chemical agents and a primer. The disposable cartridge is configured to be mounted to the ruggedized reusable cartridge, and a high-strength bulkhead incorporated into the reusable or disposable compartment that separates the digital circuit from the chemical agents. The reusable compartment is sufficiently ruggedized to withstand the ignition of the primer and the detonation of the chemical agents to be reused with one or more additional disposable cartridges. In one implementation, the delivery receptacle uses a commercial airbag initiator as the primer, which is arranged in relation to the one or more chemical agents so that when the initiator is activated, it generates a pressure wave that expels the one or more chemical agents from the grenade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Assignee: Liberty Dynamic, LLC
    Inventor: Marcus L. Caldwell
  • Patent number: 11320248
    Abstract: A digitally controlled hand-tossable explosive delivery receptacle comprises a ruggedized reusable compartment enclosing a digital circuit and a disposable cartridge holding one or more explosive chemical agents and a primer. The disposable cartridge is configured to be mounted to the ruggedized reusable cartridge, and a high-strength bulkhead incorporated into the reusable or disposable compartment that separates the digital circuit from the chemical agents. The reusable compartment is sufficiently ruggedized to withstand the ignition of the primer and the detonation of the chemical agents to be reused with one or more additional disposable cartridges. In one implementation, the delivery receptacle uses a commercial airbag initiator as the primer, which is arranged in relation to the one or more chemical agents so that when the initiator is activated, it generates a pressure wave that expels the one or more chemical agents from the grenade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: Liberty Dynamic, LLC
    Inventor: Marcus L. Caldwell
  • Patent number: 10571942
    Abstract: The overcurrent limiting circuit includes: a limit voltage generation circuit generating a limit voltage which defines the limit current value as a current corresponding to a magnitude of a power supply voltage; a source follower having an output terminal and an input terminal which is connected to a gate of the output stage transistor, and configured to supply from the output terminal a voltage level-shifted from a voltage provided to the input terminal; an error amplifier circuit amplifying a difference between the limit voltage and the voltage supplied from the source follower; and a gate voltage adjustment transistor having a gate to which the voltage supplied from the error amplifier circuit is applied, and controlling a gate voltage applied to the gate of the output stage transistor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: ABLIC INC.
    Inventor: Tsutomu Tomioka
  • Patent number: 10161729
    Abstract: An IED detection training device can include a barrel which can be adapted to receive a blank ammunition cartridge. A housing can be connected to the barrel, and a firing pin having a tab extending from the firing pin can be disposed in the housing. A spring can surround the firing pin, and a sleeve having a slot can surround the sleeve so that the firing pin tab is disposed in the sleeve slot. A lever can be pivotably attached to the housing so that the lever selectively engages the tab. A pull ring can also be pivotably attached to the housing, to selectively engage the lever. Pivoting of the pull ring can cause pivoting engagement of the lever and disengagement of the tab, which can further cause the spring to move the firing pin forward to strike the ammunition blank cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: The United States of America, as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Mark R. Hupp, Andrew L. Bottrell, Michael G. Anderson
  • Patent number: 9016205
    Abstract: An irritation body (100, 100?) is proposed, which is formed by at least two modules (101, 102). The upper module (101) serves for acceptance of an ignition head (1) with tilt lever (3) and comprises upper blow-out apertures (8, 9). The lower module (102) is intended for acceptance of an effect-charge (11) with the effect-charge (11) being integrated in a central chamber (10) of a module (102). The chamber (10) itself is functionally connected with the upper blow-out apertures (8, 9) and also with the lower blow-out apertures (12, 18, 19, 20) in the lower module (102). The chamber (10) in the lower module (102) can, depending upon module (102), be selected in different sizes, which produces, under concomitant volume variability, output variability with defined increase in output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventors: Thorsten Lübbers, Kai Lübbers, Frank Habel
  • Publication number: 20150083010
    Abstract: A practice mortar bomb comprising a pressure vessel and an outlet valve system, the pressure vessel being arranged in use to contain compressed fluid and the outlet valve system being arranged in use to allow explosive release of the compressed fluid from the pressure vessel upon activation of the valve system by a firing pin in a mortar tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Applicant: EDSL LIMITED
    Inventors: Fraser Macdonald, Ambrose Sydney John Buchanan
  • Patent number: 8978561
    Abstract: A paint ball mine having an expansion chamber with a plurality of barrels mounted to a top wall of the expansion chamber. Each barrel opens into the expansion chamber and is adapted to receive a paint ball. A primer receptacle opens through one of the end walls of the expansion chamber adapted to receive a primer. A cocking rod having a firing pin is slidably movable from a cocked position to a firing position. A coil tension spring is mounted to the cocking rod for biasing the cocking rod toward the firing position. The cocking rod is movable against the bias force of the spring to the cocked position and apparatus is provided for releasably holding the cocking rod in the cocked position. A trigger device is used for releasing the cocking rod from the cocked position whereby the firing pin is advanced to the firing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Inventor: Keith Illston
  • Patent number: 8950332
    Abstract: A non-lethal, hand or rifle fired grenade which widely disperses non-lethal pellets—using a flexible multipocket bladder type device which is mounted on a rigid internal frame. The grenade provides a wide distribution arc of rotation for the pellets, as the pellets are located in pockets about the bladder, which is blown outward to expel the pellets. Further, as the propellant is located within the flexible multipocket bladder, the hot gases and embers cannot escape—thereby helping to protect the target individuals from exposure to such potentially hazardous materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Daniel E. Iden, Colin M. Smith, Ryan T. Hooke, Yao H. Chen
  • Patent number: 8925538
    Abstract: Here is disclosed a reusable pneumatic distraction device having a housing which encloses a first and a second gas reservoir which are configured to contain a quantity of high and low pressure gas, respectively. A valve member seals off an exhaust in the first gas reservoir, the valve member movable between a closed position sealing the exhaust and an open position. The device also includes a pneumatic drive for urging the valve towards its opened position. The pneumatic drive configured to apply a lower urging force followed by a larger urging force as the valve opens. The device is also provided with a lock pin releasably coupled to the valve for preventing the valve from moving towards its open position. Finally, the device includes a delay mechanism to delay the opening of the piston when the lock pin is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventor: Carlton Chong
  • Patent number: 8919257
    Abstract: A round for simulating an 155 mm Excalibur ammunition for testing purposes. The round can effectively simulate the flight patterns of a real Excalibur round for testing purposes though made of far less expensive reusable parts. The round is generally fired into a water trough in a long soft catch recovery device so the tested round can later be studied, or generally fired ballistically, to test obturator devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Ryan Hooke, Tyler Myers, Christopher Stout, Michael Caulfield, Alan Totten
  • Patent number: 8904940
    Abstract: A grenade device produces a delayed bang upon coupling to a pressurized canister containing gas. The device includes an annular housing, an awl, a sleeve, a diaphragm, a base and a cap. The housing has first and second axial ends and an internal bulkhead disposed therebetween with a choke flow-through orifice. The awl extends axially outward from the bulkhead. The sleeve connects to the housing at the first axial end. The diaphragm is disposed between the sleeve and the housing to form an annular chamber. The cap inserts into the housing at the second axial end and receives the canister facing the awl. The base connects to the housing at the second axial end. When the canister is compressed towards the device the awl punctures the canister to release the gas, which flows through the choke orifice to pressurize the chamber, and the diaphragm ruptures upon exceeding a pressure threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Sokha Pann, Samuel R. Koski, John F. Busic
  • Patent number: 8887639
    Abstract: A rupturable bag assembly comprises an inflatable bag which parts at a target internal pressure to produce an acoustic shock wave having a minimum target noise level at a prescribed distance. The inflatable bag comprises inner and outer walls. The inner wall has greater elasticity than the outer wall. Both inner and outer walls are constructed from first and second disk shaped sections with the first and second sections being sealed along outside perimeters. The second section of the inner wall carriers a heat resistant shield on one face. An inflation port assembly provides a chamber for a fuel source and flame abatement elements between the fuel source and an inlet port to the rupturable bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventor: Curtis E. Graber
  • Patent number: 8844444
    Abstract: A reusable test projectile may be used for spinning and non-spinning shots in a soft catch system. The projectile may include a body having an integrally formed base and a removable nose. The body may define a generally cylindrical open area between the nose and the base. A generally circular cargo retaining ring may be disposed in the open area, normal to a longitudinal axis of the projectile. A cargo area is defined between the cargo retaining ring and the base. The solid bulkhead includes a front surface that forms a rear end of the cargo area and a rear concave surface. A driving band seat can be added on the exterior surface of the body at the bulkhead, for each repeated launch of the projectile, as may be desired. A slipped obturator seat may be formed on the exterior surface of the base rearward of the driving band seat, as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Ryan Hooke, Tyler Myers
  • Patent number: 8813652
    Abstract: A projectile includes an ogive at a forward end and a projectile body removably coupled to an aft end of the ogive. A signal dye or a filler material is located within a first cavity in the projectile, wherein the first cavity is at least partially located within the ogive. A pyrophoric material is also located within the first cavity, wherein the pyrophoric material is hermetically sealed either within or by the first cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Amtec Corporation
    Inventors: Dae Y. Shin, Ralph E. Robertson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8794156
    Abstract: A projectile package loaded in a firearm includes a projectile having a rod attached to its rear region. The rod is attached to a drag member or vanes having elastic properties. When fired, the projectile is expelled from the barrel of the firearm. Upon exiting the barrel and until the projectile reaches its effective range, reactionary air forces caused by the projectile traveling through the air result in the elastic vanes orienting themselves in a tight formation behind the rear region of the projectile. As a result, the vanes do not detrimentally affect the aerodynamics of the projectile's flight within the effective range of the projectile. However, once the effective range of the projectile has been exceeded, the slower velocity of the projectile causes the elastic vanes to laterally fan or spread out so as to impede the forward progress of the projectile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Brian J. Smith, Kevin D. Kennedy
  • Patent number: 8720341
    Abstract: A multiple output and effect grenade is provided, in which an exothermic delay column is utilized to initiate a series of primers via the application of heat to the strike faces thereof, thereby providing a reliable and relatively safe grenade to ship and store. In particular, a multiple output and effect grenade comprised of an exothermic delay column disposed within a central cavity, operable to initiate a series of primers disposed in primer cavities located within the main body of the grenade. The primer cavities may be arranged in a symmetrical or asymmetrical configuration, so as to produce a firing signature resembling an automatic weapon or random gunfire, respectively. In addition, effect charges, such as illuminants, sound agents, chemical irritants, etc., may be disposed within the primer cavities, as desired by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Brunn
  • Publication number: 20130255525
    Abstract: A non-lethal hand grenade having a flexible resilient tube containing a pressurized colored liquid, with a impact actuated trigger device, which overcome the deficiencies of known prior art by offering a reliable, safe, and cost effective device that never fail to goes off when is thrown towards a intended target. The trigger device relies on the flexibility of the tube to keep the device safe to be thrown without going off until a minimal impact happens; The impact actuates a device which releases the trigger cap that keep the resilient tube blocked, allowing the pressurized liquid to be sprayed, marking anyone and anything about twenty feet of the point of impact. This non-reusable grenade is safe, reliable, environmental safe, easy to manufacture and operate, very similar in design and use to a real military grenade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventor: Everson Fortes Silva
  • Patent number: 8485101
    Abstract: A reusable, pneumatic paint grenade that includes a dashpot timing mechanism for sudden release of compressed air that ruptures a frangible housing to disperse a dyed liquid or airsoft pellets after the paint grenade is thrown. The dashpot further comprises a plunger located in a cylindrical body. A lever in contact with the plunger of the dashpot forces the plunger downward to puncture a cartridge of compressed air with a sharp structure disposed between the plunger and the cartridge. The compressed air is prevented from escaping while the sharp structure remains in the cartridge. Once the lever is released, the plunger is forced into substantially its original position by a biasing mechanism and the force exerted by the air pressure within the cartridge. The cylindrical body can be filled with a viscous liquid to further slow movement of the plunger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventor: Scott Frank
  • Patent number: 8464641
    Abstract: A forty millimeter caliber exercise bullet has been improved for properly exploding on a target, and securely maintaining the unloaded status during ordinary time. The improved exercise bullet is comprised of: a skirt (200), a striking pin (10), a safety device assembly (300) consisting of a detent cover (310) with a central mounting groove (311) and a pair of mounting grooves (312), a detent (320) for retaining the striking pin (10) by engaging or disengaging into the circumferential groove (11) by springs (323), a detonator cap (330) forming a hollow pocket (331) to insert a detonator trigger (20), a washer (30), a press-spring (332) for pressing a guiding cap (340), an explosion pipe (400), a smoke shell (500), and an ogive (600). When the bullet is fired, the rotation of the bullet generates centrifugal force to slide the retainer outward for disengaging the circumferential groove. Then, the striking pin moves upward to impact the detonator trigger when it hit on the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Korea C.N.O. Tech Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Se-Hong O
  • Patent number: 8438978
    Abstract: A training ammunition projectile has a projectile body comprising a head with a frangible ogive designed to burst when the projectile strikes a target. One or more marking agents, disposed in the head for marking the position of the target upon its release when the ogive has burst, include 1) chemi-luminescent components, disposed in separate frangible compartments, which mix and react chemically with each other when the compartments break up on setback, causing the mixed components to luminesce, and/or (2) a low density, fine, dry powder material disposed in the head and designed to create a plume, both for marking the target when the projectile strikes the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventors: Kevin Michael Sullivan, Darlene Justesen, Perry Justesen
  • Patent number: 8365668
    Abstract: A multiple output and effect grenade is provided, in which an exothermic delay column is utilized to initiate a series of primers via the application of heat to the strike faces thereof, thereby providing a reliable and relatively safe grenade to ship and store. In particular, a multiple output and effect grenade comprised of an exothermic delay column disposed within a central cavity, operable to initiate a series of primers disposed in primer cavities located within the main body of the grenade. The primer cavities may be arranged in a symmetrical or asymmetrical configuration, so as to produce a firing signature resembling an automatic weapon or random gunfire, respectively. In addition, effect charges, such as illuminants, sound agents, chemical irritants, etc., may be disposed within the primer cavities, as desired by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Brunn
  • Patent number: 8359978
    Abstract: Projectiles containing a fluorophore composition comprising a fluorophore compound and an activator composition comprising an activator compound for marking targets are disclosed. Some embodiments include a nose structure with a cavity radially segmented into a plurality of radially isolated compartments by at least one laterally and radially extending internal wall. Additional embodiments include a fore compartment and an aft compartment sealed by a septum. Yet additional embodiments include at least one pressurized cavity and may further include a plunger positioned and configured to pierce each pressurized cavity. Methods of manufacturing target marking projectiles and methods of marking targets are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Endicott, Daniel W. Doll, R. Brad Cragun, Jared K. Olson, Michael T. Rose, Mark A. Moore, James D. Rozanski, Russell J. George
  • Patent number: 8312814
    Abstract: A hand grenade simulator includes a hand grenade simulator housing configured to simulate the appearance of a hand grenade. The hand grenade simulator also includes a trigger mechanism coupled to the hand grenade simulator housing. The hand grenade simulator further includes a timer coupled to the trigger mechanism. The hand grenade simulator additionally includes at least one transmitter coupled to the timer. The transmitter is operable to transmit the first signal simulating a hand grenade blast pattern a first amount of time after activation of the trigger mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Eric R. Davis, Giles D. Jones, William W. Price, Christopher A. Tomlinson, Peter M. Wallrich, Jeffrey E. Decker
  • Patent number: 8297193
    Abstract: A surrogate RPG includes a warhead with an outer conductive portion and an inner conductive portion spaced from the outer conductive portion. A sabot includes an electrical circuit configured to monitor conductivity between the inner and outer conductive portions. The surrogate RPG can be used to test the effectiveness of various RPG defeat technologies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Foster-Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: William R. Lawson, Scott Paul Quigley, Jamie Orlando Milliken, Robert Lee Cardenas
  • Patent number: 8286557
    Abstract: Projectiles containing a fluorophore composition comprising a fluorophore compound and an activator composition comprising an activator compound for marking targets are disclosed. Some embodiments include a nose structure with a cavity radially segmented into a plurality of radially isolated compartments by at least one laterally and radially extending internal wall. Additional embodiments include a fore compartment and an aft compartment sealed by a septum. Yet additional embodiments include at least one pressurized cavity and may further include a plunger positioned and configured to pierce each pressurized cavity. Methods of manufacturing target marking projectiles and methods of marking targets are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Endicott, Daniel W. Doll, R. Brad Cragun, Jared K. Olson, Michael T. Rose, Mark A. Moore, James D. Rozanski, Russell J. George
  • Patent number: 8261665
    Abstract: A system relating to non-lethal gas-pressurized hand grenades used in the game of paintball, or other recreational war games. The system provides for an air-pressurized paintball grenade that is thrown or otherwise ballistic delivered to the target. The paintball grenade does not trigger until delivered to the target. It is constructed to be easily refilled and pressurized for repeated, safe, and environmentally friendly use. The paintball grenade comprises stabilizing fins, an integral hand-pump for pressurization, a trigger blocker, and attaching apparatus for carrying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Inventor: Thomas Patrick Walsh
  • Patent number: 8161883
    Abstract: A safer flash-bang grenade that yields the state of the art sound intensity, plus a brighter, more intense flash of the order of 13.5 million candela—which effect is due to a combination of a particularly efficacious pyrotechnic formulation and a particular reaction chamber design that momentarily retains or holds-back the reaction escape until the desired intensity is reached. The particular pyrotechnic formulation is based upon a strontium nitrate oxidizer in conjunction with an aluminum powder metallic fuel and a sulfur non-metallic fuel. The particular reaction chamber design includes a relatively rigid, non-fragmenting charge holder, with a slip-fit thin aluminum sleeve internal thereof and a shrink fit or other sealed sleeve external thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Nicole D. Harasts, William Chung-Leung Chow, Mark Motyka, Steve Kotefski, Lidija Kotevska
  • Patent number: 8117966
    Abstract: A stun grenade that provides a flash and an associated loud report without use of pyro-ignition sources. The flash is generated by discharge of a conventional flash bulb. The loud, explosive noise comes from rupturing of an inflatable bag at a predetermined rupture pressure and inflation volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Curtis E. Graber
  • Patent number: 8079322
    Abstract: A shock tube apparatus may include a plenum to hold a volume of gas. The plenum may include a hollow chamber having a first end and a second end located opposite one another along a longitudinal axis, the first end of the chamber defining a shock egress opening. A valve assembly may be positioned at the first end of the chamber to seal the shock egress opening. A piston may be positioned within a recess located at the second end of the chamber. The piston may separate a first volume located between the piston and the first end of the chamber from a smaller second volume located between the piston and the second end of the chamber. A tension supporting rod may connect the valve assembly to the piston. A release valve may be in fluid connection with the second volume and a switch may be operable to open the release valve to release gas from the second volume and trigger opening of the valve assembly to generate a shock wave through the shock egress opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: AAI Corporation
    Inventor: David A. Carpenter
  • Patent number: 8065962
    Abstract: A projectile, particularly a practice round, has a projectile body that includes a hollow ogive that bursts upon striking the target into which marking material is inserted. The marking material is released when the projectile strikes the target and the ogive bursts. The marking material is covered by a protective cap that breaks when the projectile bursts on the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventor: Detlef Haeselich
  • Patent number: 8047136
    Abstract: A projectile is provided for simulating multiple sequential ballistic impacts. The projectile has a plurality of relatively dense loading layers spaced along the firing direction of the projectile. Each pair of nearest-neighbor loading layers is separated by a less dense support element which maintains the spacing of the loading layers. The projectile may be suitable for simulating bird slurry impacts on stator vanes of an aero gas turbine engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce plc
    Inventors: Duncan A. S. MacDougall, David Higginbottom
  • Patent number: 7963227
    Abstract: The present invention overcomes the limitations of the prior art by providing a stun grenade device with an elongated cylindrical body having a cylindrical sidewall and opposed top and bottom end faces. The body includes a delay chamber containing a delay material, and has a number of flash charge chambers each containing a quantity of flash charge material. The body defines a number of ignition passages, each communicating from a respective flash charge chamber to the delay chamber. Each flash charge chamber has at least one exhaust aperture penetrating the top or bottom end face. Each flash charge chamber may be formed in an elongated tubular sleeve inset in a frame of a different material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: CombMed Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Brunn
  • Patent number: 7958827
    Abstract: In example embodiments, a device for producing a simulated explosion that can be used with a soda bottler or other commonly available containers. A coupler couples a rupturable container to a non-pyrotechnic explosive device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Combat Training Solutions
    Inventor: Nathan Randall Brock
  • Patent number: 7905179
    Abstract: A “non-pyrotechnic explosion device” closely replicates in sound and visual cue a “real” exploding device, but without the accompanying safety concerns. This device is not only realistic and safe, but is inexpensive to operate and maintain, durable, and easy to transport and operate. It provides the user with numerous options for employment from mine, bomb, and improvised explosive device (ied) simulators to an artillery impact simulator. The device is comprised of a pressurized chamber, a pressure release device, an expulsion substance container, and a rupture-able/explosion tube assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Inventor: Nathan R. Brock
  • Publication number: 20110048271
    Abstract: An explosive device simulator system has a housing in the shape of an explosive device. The simulator includes a sound producing system inside the housing. A light producing system inside the housing receives an actuation signal from a trigger system. The trigger system may include a microcontroller, which can be used to include a delay between a trigger event and the actuation signal. The simulator may include a smoke producing system that includes a powder that is dispersed by a gas generator. The powder exits the housing through a number of vents. A cordite odor substance may be included in the powder to provide a realistic smell of an exploded device. A light producing system provides the flash of a real explosive device and is connected to the microcontroller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventor: Antonio Colon
  • Patent number: 7845280
    Abstract: A diversionary device has a housing having dimensions which are selected such that when the device is thrown or dropped, the device will come to rest only on one of its two primary sides. Each primary side has a circular dispersion port formed therethrough. The device includes means for blocking the first dispersion port if the device comes to rest on the first primary surface and for blocking the second dispersion port if the device comes to rest on the second primary surface. A firing mechanism is operable to discharge an ignitable composition out of a removable cartridge within the housing. The ignitable composition is discharged through the first dispersion port when the device rests on the second primary side and through the second dispersion port when the device rests on the first primary side. The composition then forms a cloud above the device and may be ignited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Law Enforcement Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Marcus L. Caldwell
  • Patent number: 7814836
    Abstract: A blank cartridge (1) comprises a cartridge casing (2) with a first primer (18); a piston (9) with a head (10) and an arm (11); and an expansion chamber located between said primer (18) and the head of the piston (10), wherein, following detonation of the primer, the piston slidably displaces substantially within the casing (2) of said cartridge (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: UTM IP Limited
    Inventor: Michael Ernest Saxby
  • Patent number: 7784455
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved grenade which launches a plurality of pellet projectiles. The grenade includes a housing containing at least one spiral launch tube, said launch tube having a breech end and a muzzle end. A plurality of projectiles are loaded in the launch tube between the breech and muzzle ends. The grenade includes a gas reservoir for storing a compressed gas coupled to the breech end of the launch tube. A valve is interposed between the reservoir and the breech end of the launch tube for controlling the flow of compressed gas from the reservoir to the breech end of the launch tube. The valve is moveable between a closed state and an open state wherein said compressed gas enters the breech end of the launch tube to propel the projectiles from the muzzle end, the valve being biased towards its open state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventor: Carlton le Loong Chong
  • Patent number: 7735423
    Abstract: A munition has an external surface. The munition may be of any type. The external surface includes a coating on at least part of it. Coatings may be, for example, paints, tapes, appliqués or other materials. The coating on the munition includes one or more of reflective material, phosphorescent material and fluorescent material. The reflective, phosphorescent and/or fluorescent coatings are applied to the munition prior to its being deployed. The reflective, phosphorescent and/or fluorescent materials in the coatings are visible at a safe distance from the munition and help to identify unexploded ordnance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Kenneth Gold
  • Patent number: 7721651
    Abstract: Disclosed is an irritation grenade (1) comprising a receptacle (2) with at least one compartment (12) within which an effective charge (3) is accommodated and which ends in one respective discharge port (21, 22) on opposite sides of the receptacle (2) while being locked by means of a closure (15). A rocker-arm type igniter (4) is provided to ignite the effective charges. The combustion gases of the effective charges (3) are deflected in part by parts of the rocker-arm igniter (4) such that the irritation grenade is displaced when the effective charges (3) are ignited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Rheimentall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventors: Thorsten Lübbers, Detlef Haeselich
  • Publication number: 20100058947
    Abstract: A hand grenade simulator includes a hand grenade simulator housing configured to simulate the appearance of a hand grenade. The hand grenade simulator also includes a trigger mechanism coupled to the hand grenade simulator housing. The hand grenade simulator further includes a timer coupled to the trigger mechanism. The hand grenade simulator additionally includes at least one transmitter coupled to the timer. The transmitter is operable to transmit the first signal simulating a hand grenade blast pattern a first amount of time after activation of the trigger mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Eric R. Davis, Giles D. Jones, William W. Price, Christopher A. Tomlinson, Peter M. Wallrich, Jeffrey E. Decker
  • Patent number: 7644663
    Abstract: An inactive aerial ballistic element for exercises includes a main hollow body and a ballast element. The main hollow body has an ogive, disposed in the front portion, and a closure bottom, disposed in the rear portion. The ballast element is disposed in the main hollow body, and gives to the inactive ballistic element the same ballistic features of active ballistic elements. The ballast element includes at least a monolithic body coaxially disposed in the main hollow body of the inactive ballistic element and extending at least between the ogive and the closure bottom. The ogive includes the end of the monolithic body, which protrudes from the main hollow body of the inactive ballistic element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Industria Meccanica Zane' SRL
    Inventor: Giuliano Illesi
  • Patent number: 7617778
    Abstract: An impact cartridge unit for military exercise including a cartridge including a propulsive agent and on top thereof a grenade simulating member simulating a low velocity grenade to be fired by a firearm or the like. The grenade simulating member includes an arrangement adapted to simulate a detonation of a low velocity grenade and trigger associated therewith for triggering the detonation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: SAAB AB
    Inventors: Johan Henriksson, Jesper Wiberg, Ingemar Emricson, Jonas Malm
  • Patent number: 7565866
    Abstract: A paintball grenade is disclosed. An illustrative embodiment of the paintball grenade includes a cage, a discharge housing carried by the cage, a vinegar syringe having a discharge tip carried by the discharge housing, a spoon pivotally carried by the discharge housing and engaging the vinegar syringe and a paint bladder carried by the cage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Inventor: Edward J. Downes
  • Patent number: 7543534
    Abstract: Described are flameless tracer munitions that are expelled from land mines or in hand thrown devices, which are used to mark an enemy person, vehicle body, or tires on the vehicle, with materials that emit infrared (IR) light, or heat emitting materials, or with a visible ink or a dye. The subjects are then identified and pursued because of the ink or seen with infrared reading or heat seeking devices. The devices are both long duration (several hours) and also have high light intensity tracing and marking. These munitions are non-impact and non-lethal; are non-toxic, and biodegradable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Leon R. Manole, Stewart Gilman, Kevin Stoddard, Ernest Logsdon, Mark Nicolich
  • Publication number: 20090038497
    Abstract: A training stun gun consisting of a main valve body and a base cylinder which are screwed together and have a cavity therein. A CO2 cartridge is located in the cavity. The lower end of the main valve body has a piercing element therein that faces the top of the CO2 cartridge . When the two bodies are screwed together to a certain extent, the piercing element will pierce the top of the CO2 cartridge and release high pressure fluid. A valve assembly controls the release of the high pressure fluid to a burst diaphragm cap on top of the main valve body. The cap will burst and release the high pressure with an explosion-like noise. No pyro-technique is involved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Inventors: Andrew George Van Der Plaats, Bernard Deak
  • Patent number: 7475638
    Abstract: A training projectile includes at its head a hollow arched cavity or cap that defines a hollow cavity within the head of the training projectile, and that bursts when the projectile strikes a target. Into this cavity are placed a first chemically-inactive marking material and a second chemically-active marking material, whereby both marking materials are released upon bursting of the arched cavity. The first marking material creates, for example, a color effect by means of a colored powder; the second marking material produces a light effect by means of, for example, materials that interact to produce chemo-luminescence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Nico-Pyrotechnik Hanns-Juergen Diederichs GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Detlef Haeselich