Opened By Electrically Actuated Means Patents (Class 124/77)
  • Patent number: 10782091
    Abstract: A trigger position detection system in replica firearms which comprises a sensor built from at least one light source D1 (5), and at least one receiver Q1 (6) converting a light signal into an electrical signal. The light source D1 (5) and the light receiver Q1 (6) are located on a printed circuit board (7) in a way that they are deviated from the vertical axes running perpendicularly to the upper surface of the cylinder edge by an angle from the range of 0°-90°, and their active surfaces are directed towards the replica trigger (1). A method of detecting the position of the trigger in replica firearms comprising controlling the light source D1 (5) in such a manner that at fixed regular time intervals, each time it emits light for the same period of time, while directing the beam reflected from the surface of the replica trigger (1) towards the receiver Q1 (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: GATE Menet, Wojtak Sp. J.
    Inventors: Marcin Menet, Damian Wojtak
  • Patent number: 10675523
    Abstract: An ejector launches a series of basketballs to various locations selected by a user via an interface having a number of individually selectable indicia arranged in a spaced angular pattern thereon corresponding to shooting locations on a basketball playing area. A sensor counts the number of ejected basketballs and made shots. A computer calculates shooting statistics data which is transmitted to a database via a network connection device. The database is configured to store the shooting statistics data and transmit it to an electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: Shoot-A-Way, Inc.
    Inventors: John G. Joseph, Troy David Geiser
  • Patent number: 10495396
    Abstract: Adjustable gas block system for a repeating firearm having an indexed adjustment system which may be pre-set for a desired amount of gas flow and then adjusted over a range of gas flow by manipulating a lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: Seekins Precision, LLC
    Inventor: Glen Dale Seekins
  • Patent number: 9797677
    Abstract: A compressed air cannon includes a launch pipe and a gas tube. The launch pipe has a closed end and an open end. The gas tube is into the top of the launch pipe, where the gas tube has an outlet directed toward the closed end of the launch pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Inventor: Michael Willett
  • Patent number: 9518799
    Abstract: A paintball gun generally comprising a body split into an upper portion and a lower portion is provided. The split body allows exposure of internal components for access, service and/or maintenance. In an embodiment, the paintball gun preferably includes a valve assembly fixedly secured within the body. In an embodiment, the paintball gun preferably includes a barrel adapter for engaging a barrel, with the barrel adapter secured within the body by a gripping piece. A method of servicing a paintball gun is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: GI Sportz Direct LLC
    Inventor: Simon B. Stevens
  • Publication number: 20150034062
    Abstract: A compressed air cannon includes a launch pipe and a gas tube. The launch pipe has a closed end and an open end. The gas tube is into the top of the launch pipe, where the gas tube has an outlet directed toward the closed end of the launch pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Willett
  • Patent number: 8887708
    Abstract: An improved paintball marker with electro-pneumatic firing mechanism that employs two separate solenoid valves: a low pressure solenoid valve for bolt actuation and a high pressure solenoid valve for exhaust valve actuation to fire the paintball. The exhaust valve is completely independent of the bolt movement. This eliminates the need for a mechanical ram to strike the exhaust valve. Fewer moving parts and a smaller moving mass reduces recoil and improves reliability and overall operation of the marker. Moreover, the design is more modular and allows for easier disassembly and maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventors: James Kantonides, John Rodman
  • Publication number: 20140137848
    Abstract: An improved paintball marker with electro-pneumatic firing mechanism that employs two separate solenoid valves: a low pressure solenoid valve for bolt actuation and a high pressure solenoid valve for exhaust valve actuation to fire the paintball. The exhaust valve is completely independent of the bolt movement. This eliminates the need for a mechanical ram to strike the exhaust valve. Fewer moving parts and a smaller moving mass reduces recoil and improves reliability and overall operation of the marker. Moreover, the design is more modular and allows for easier disassembly and maintenance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Inventors: James Kantonides, John Rodman
  • Publication number: 20140096759
    Abstract: A reduced breakaway-friction flow control and valving device for a compressed gas-powered projectile accelerator is disclosed having an improved means of reducing break-away friction, an improved sealing arrangement, and self-contained modular components to improve efficiency, manufacturability, and reduce size and weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: KEE Action Sports I LLC
    Inventor: Robert K. Masse
  • Patent number: 8671927
    Abstract: A projectile launcher capable of optionally repositioning the bolt to a predefined position using a bolt carrier is disclosed. The launcher, in one aspect, includes a bolt, a striker, a bolt carrier, and a ramp. The bolt, in one example, is configured to be able to move within a bolt chamber. The striker having a striker reset hook is able to move in a direction parallel to a moving direction of the bolt. The bolt carrier, having a fastener, a flexible latch, and a bolt repositioning latch, is attached to the bolt via the fastener. The flexible latch is able to latch to the striker reset hook for resetting the striker during a process of launching a projectile. The ramp facilitates disconnecting the flexible latch from the striker reset hook when the flexible latch moves over the ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Real Action Paintball (RAPU)
    Inventor: Omar Alonso Macy
  • Patent number: 8671928
    Abstract: A pneumatic assembly for a projectile launching system includes a body defining a continuous bore. A nozzle is positioned within the bore adjacent a forward end and is moveable between a rearward position wherein the nozzle facilitates passage of a projectile through a projectile port and a forward position wherein the nozzle prevents passage of a projectile through the projectile port. The nozzle is biased to the forward position and configured for fluid actuation to the rearward position by activation of a first fluid control valve. A valve seat defines an accumulation chamber rearward of the nozzle. A firing valve member is moveable between a forward position wherein the firing valve member fluidly seals a passage through the valve seat and a rearward position wherein the passage is fluidly opened such that fluid in the accumulation chamber is free to flow through the passage and out of the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Polarstar Engineering & Machine
    Inventors: Stephen James Hague, Jordan Anderson, Benjamin Noji
  • Patent number: 8640684
    Abstract: Disclosed is a pneumatic launcher and a method for launching projectiles at a target with a distance-dependent launch-power. Also disclosed are a distance-provider and a dynamic gun-sight suitable for use with such a pneumatic launcher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Dr. Erez Gur, Ltd.
    Inventors: Erez Gur, Nir Shvalb, Boaz Ben-Moshe
  • Publication number: 20130118466
    Abstract: Disclosed is a pneumatic launcher and a method for launching projectiles at a target with a distance-dependent launch-power. Also disclosed are a distance-provider and a dynamic gun-sight suitable for use with such a pneumatic launcher.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: DR. EREZ GUR, LTD.
    Inventor: Dr. Erez Gur, Ltd.
  • Publication number: 20130104868
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, machine, device, manufacture, circuit, composition of matter, and/or user interface adapted for and/or resulting from, and/or a method and/or machine-readable medium storing machine-implementable instructions for, activities that can comprise and/or relate to, controlling the amount of energy delivered to a projectile from a source of compressed gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventor: Lloyd Stephen Sikes
  • Publication number: 20130092141
    Abstract: A pneumatic assembly for a paintball gun is provided. The pneumatic assembly includes a valve stem, and a bolt slidably mounted on the valve stem. The bolt includes at least one bolt port arranged through a sidewall of the bolt. A sealing member is provided on the valve stem in communication with an inner surface of the bolt. The bolt slides from a rearward position to a forward position along the valve stem. Compressed gas flows through the bolt port and through the bolt aperture to fire a projectile when the bolt is in the forward position. A paintball gun incorporating the pneumatic assembly is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: KEE Action Sports I LLC
    Inventor: Robert K. Masse
  • Patent number: 8413644
    Abstract: A reduced breakaway-friction flow control and valving device for a compressed gas-powered projectile accelerator is disclosed having an improved means of reducing break-away friction, an improved sealing arrangement, and self-contained modular components to improve efficiency, manufacturability, and reduce size and weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: KEE Action Sports I LLC
    Inventor: Robert K. Masse
  • Patent number: 8397705
    Abstract: A novel and unique pneumatic paintball marker having a variety of novel features, the first being an on/off compressed air control valve, positioned at the front of the marker below the barrel and adjacent to an in-line pressure regulator. Major innovations have been made in reducing the size and weight of the body of the marker, along with the construction of a new bolt assembly consisting of just four components and only one moving part. An anti-chop eye electronic system insures that the paintballs are in proper position, and rubber ball detents are optionally added to hold the paintballs in place prior to firing the marker, so that the paintballs will not roll out the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Dye Precision, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. DeHaan, Bryon E. Benini, Eric L. Roberts, William R. Wing, Eero K. Kaakkola
  • Patent number: 8312870
    Abstract: Among other things, methods and apparatus regarding collection, dissemination and display of information concerning paintball loaders and markers are disclosed. A loader includes a heads-up display, electronic devices for gathering, storing and disseminating information, and an antenna for sending and receiving data. Wireless voice communications among paintball players is possible via associated headsets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: HTR Development, LLC
    Inventors: John Higgins, Benjamin Lynn Frederick
  • Publication number: 20120285435
    Abstract: An improved paintball gun uses a low-pressure pneumatic sear to hold the firing valve closed against the high pressure gas occupying the other side of the valve. In this manner, only one operation is required between depressing the trigger and the firing of the paintball gun because a double-acting cylinder is not required as an interface between the trigger depression and actuation of the valve. The paintball gun is also substantially faster than existing electro-pneumatic paintball guns because it uses a blow forward bolt, in which higher-pressure gas is held directly behind the bolt and has only one direction to travel during the firing of the paintball gun.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: KEE Action Sports I LLC
    Inventor: Jerrold M. Dobbins
  • Publication number: 20120279483
    Abstract: A system and method for launching promotional material is described. A gas-powered cannon having an actuation system and a magazine attached to the actuation system is provided. The magazine includes a plurality of tubes capable of receiving the promotional items to be launched. A promotional item is loaded into each tube, wherein loading includes loading a first promotional item in a first one of the plurality of tubes and loading a second promotional item into a different one of the plurality of tubes. The first promotional item is launched and then the magazine is rotated around the actuation system under gas power to line up the second promotional item. The second promotional item is then launched.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Applicant: Wrath Systems LLC
    Inventors: Tristan James Hase, Reid Dale Anderson, Orrin Christian Hanson, Brandon Lee Steinhauer
  • Patent number: 8286621
    Abstract: The pneumatically powered projectile launching device has a bolt located within a body. A front gas chamber in the body has an opening through which the bolt extends into the chamber. The bolt can move forward and backward thereby changing the volume of the front chamber. The bolt has a backward facing working surface. A gas valve in the body selectively releases compressed gas into the chamber. The released gas applies pressure on the backward facing working surface of the bolt to move the bolt forward, and then passes through a passage in the bolt to pneumatically force the projectile to leave the device. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Kingman International Corporation
    Inventor: Fabrice N. V. Halmone
  • Patent number: 8287404
    Abstract: The present invention includes programs, devices and methods for a programmable ball throwing machine that is able to eject balls to preset, programmed or manually-selected positions with programmable projection and travel characteristics. The present invention includes a computer implemented method for controlling the parameters of a ball flight and trajectory in three dimensions including one or more parameters to identify a flight and trajectory of a ball in three dimensions for one or more player positions and a processor to control one or more motors in response to the one or more parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: PrecisionSports Robotics, LLC
    Inventors: Romulo J. Cucjen, Dennis Randall Duron
  • Publication number: 20120255534
    Abstract: A paintball marker having a more efficient and reliable bolt engine assembly comprising a hollow bolt resident in the chamber of the gun body and sidable therein, a stationary valve piston inserted within the bolt for sealing said chamber, and a low pressure regulator (LPR) integral to the valve piston for providing a source of low-pressure compressed gas (approx. 90-250 psi) for moving the bolt within the chamber, e.g., between a loading position and a ready-to-fire position. The bolt is the only moving component within the chamber, and its design allows both the high-pressure (300-400 psi) propellant charge and the low pressure (90-250 psi) charge used to reciprocate the bolt to enter perpendicularly through a port or opening in the side of the bolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Inventor: Christopher Cole
  • Publication number: 20120210992
    Abstract: A novel and unique pneumatic paintball marker having a variety of novel features, the first being an on/off compressed air control valve, positioned at the front of the marker below the barrel and adjacent to an in-line pressure regulator. Major innovations have been made in reducing the size and weight of the body of the marker, along with the construction of a new bolt assembly consisting of just four components and only one moving part. An anti-chop eye electronic system insures that the paintballs are in proper position, and rubber ball detents are optionally added to hold the paintballs in place prior to firing the marker, so that the paintballs will not roll out the barrel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: DYE PRECISION, INC.
    Inventors: David J. DeHaan, Bryon E. Benini, Eric L. Roberts, William R. Wing, Eero K. Kaakkola
  • Patent number: 8235031
    Abstract: An electronic device provides parameters to a paintball gun and/or paintball accessories. The gun performs an operation in accordance with the parameters. The accessories respectively perform a function of the accessories in accordance with the parameters. The electronic device does not perform a function of the paintball gun or a function of the accessories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventor: Yong S. Kim
  • Publication number: 20120192846
    Abstract: A paintball marker in one embodiment of which a regulator can be located to multiple positions due to multiple flow paths to the valve assembly. For example, in some situations it could be desired to position the regulator on the grip of the marker. In other situations, the user might want the regulator to be located on a vertical grip of the marker. In another embodiment, the paintball marker has an anti jam feature including a capacitive sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Applicant: TIPPMANN SPORTS LLC
    Inventors: COREY K. RICE, COREY LEE ROGGE, CHAD A. JONES, JOSEPH E. HARTER, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120192847
    Abstract: A pneumatic assembly for a projectile launching system includes a body defining a continuous bore. A nozzle is positioned within the bore adjacent a forward end and is moveable between a rearward position wherein the nozzle facilitates passage of a projectile through a projectile port and a forward position wherein the nozzle prevents passage of a projectile through the projectile port. The nozzle is biased to the forward position and configured for fluid actuation to the rearward position by activation of a first fluid control valve. A valve seat defines an accumulation chamber rearward of the nozzle. A firing valve member is moveable between a forward position wherein the firing valve member fluidly seals a passage through the valve seat and a rearward position wherein the passage is fluidly opened such that fluid in the accumulation chamber is free to flow through the passage and out of the nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Applicant: POLARSTAR ENGINEERING & MACHINE
    Inventors: Stephen J. Hague, Jordan Anderson, Benjamin Noji
  • Publication number: 20120132187
    Abstract: A pneumatic weapon is described. The pneumatic weapon includes a gas storage chamber in fluid communication with a breech that houses a projectile. The weapon also has a gun barrel in fluid communication with the breech. A barrier is situated intermediate the projectile and the gun barrel. The barrier impedes the forward movement of the projectile until gas is released from the gas storage chamber and the pressure within the breech builds to a point sufficient to force the projectile through the barrier and out the gun barrel. The weapon also has several unique projectile storage devices that function with the aid of recycled gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventor: Adam M. Murray
  • Patent number: 8186338
    Abstract: A novel and unique pneumatic paintball marker having a variety of novel features, the first being an on/off compressed air control valve, positioned at the front of the marker below the barrel and adjacent to an in-line pressure regulator. Major innovations have been made in reducing the size and weight of the body of the marker, along with the construction of a new bolt assembly consisting of just four components and only one moving part. An anti-chop eye electronic system insures that the paintballs are in proper position, and rubber ball detents are optionally added to hold the paintballs in place prior to firing the marker, so that the paintballs will not roll out the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Dye Precision, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. DeHaan, Bryon Benini, Eric L. Roberts, William R. Wing, Eero K. Kaakkola
  • Publication number: 20120092490
    Abstract: Improvements to projectile devices (particularly air guns) include techniques for measuring and controlling the velocity of projectiles in the barrel and after leaving the barrel, allowing the use of non-toxic projectiles. Tracking of a projectile's flight by its unique sound and/or its unique electromagnetic signal or signal modulation are also provided, along with after-barrel guidance that can be used to improve accuracy. Control for discriminating between authorized and unauthorized users is also provided. A projectile device can also be used for inexpensive and harmless practice using optical and/or acoustic information gathered by targeting and imaging systems built into the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicant: Metadigm LLC
    Inventor: Victor B. Kley
  • Patent number: 8146577
    Abstract: An electric toy gun having therein a power break control mechanism consisting of an actuator, a power break control set and a swinging block for breaking off power supply upon triggering of the trigger when the clip is empty. When the clip is empty and when the trigger is pressed, the actuator is forced by a spring-loaded push rod at the bullet outlet of the clip to move the swinging block and the power break control set, causing a power break holder to be moved away from a power contact holder, and therefore power supply is disconnected, avoiding waste of power supply and component damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventor: Shih-Che Hu
  • Publication number: 20120060813
    Abstract: A paintball marker includes a housing having formed therein a cylindrical chamber with an axis and an open end, and a valve assembly within and coaxial with the chamber. The chamber wall has first and second openings. The valve assembly is configured so that, during one period of revolution about the axis, in a first portion the valve assembly closes the second opening while permitting entry of a ball into the chamber through the first opening, and in a second portion the valve assembly closes the first opening while permitting entry of compressed gas into the chamber through the second opening. The compressed gas entering the chamber during the second portion expels the ball through the open end of the chamber. Delivery of the ball to the housing, and delivery of compressed gas to expel the ball, requires only one moving part, namely the valve assembly revolving in the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventor: Ahmed Soueidan
  • Publication number: 20120031386
    Abstract: A compressed gas-powered projectile accelerator is disclosed having an improved means of gas distribution, a valve locking mechanism, an improved combined bumper/seal, and self-contained modular components to improve efficiency, manufacturability, and reduce size and weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: AJ ACQUISITION I LLC
    Inventor: Robert K. Masse
  • Patent number: 8100120
    Abstract: A bullet feed portion reciprocates and is positioned in a firing position where a bullet housing chamber is opposed to a bullet feed port, and in a non-firing position where the bullet feed port is closed. A gas flow path guides compressed gas to the bullet feed port in an inner barrel. A valve is biased to close the gas flow path. A firing action mechanism has a movable body that can be freely reciprocated along the inner barrel. The firing action mechanism moves the bullet feed portion to a firing position and moves the valve to a non-biasing direction. A power transmission unit transforms motor force into the locomotion of a movable body. When trigger is pulled, the motor moves the movable body toward the bullet feed port to feed a bullet into the bullet feed portion, and actuate the firing action mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Maruzen Company Limited
    Inventor: Tetsuo Maeda
  • Patent number: 8091542
    Abstract: An electric toy gun having therein a power break control mechanism consisting of an actuator, a power break control set and a swinging block for breaking off power supply upon triggering of the trigger when the clip is empty. When the clip is empty and when the trigger is pressed, the actuator is forced by a spring-loaded lift rod at the bullet outlet of the clip to move the swinging block and the power break control set, causing a power break holder to be moved away from a power contact holder, and therefore power supply is disconnected, avoiding waste of power supply and component damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventor: Shih-Che Hu
  • Patent number: 8082912
    Abstract: A pneumatic circuit for a paintball marker is disclosed. Paintball markers generally include a gas supply, a bolt mechanism and a firing chamber. The pneumatic circuit includes an exhaust path. A gas supply inlet path is in fluid communication to the gas supply. A first supply path is in fluid communication with the gas supply inlet path and the bolt mechanism. A second supply path is in fluid communication with the gas supply inlet path and the firing chamber. A first valve is configured and arranged to selectively control fluid communication of the first supply path and the exhaust path. A second valve is configured and arranged to control fluid communication of the second supply path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Planet Eclipse Limited
    Inventor: Jack Kingsley Wood
  • Patent number: 8079356
    Abstract: An improved pneumatic launching apparatus is disclosed having both a partition apparatus for enabling a projectile, such as filled capsules used in paintball, marking devices or crowd control, to be loaded and readied for expulsion and a venting-pressure regulator. When the partition apparatus is in an open position, an aperture is exposed allowing a projectile of complimentary size and shape to transfer to the receiving chamber. The shape of the partition is such that a next projectile is gently cradled and separated from the receiving chamber during a closing movement. Further, the partition facilitates the projectile reaching a containing area and it creates a seal that on the chamber that significantly inhibits the escape of pressurized gas during a firing operation and facilitates the projectile loading into a containing area. The venting-pressure regulator utilizes opposed pistons with an escape mechanism to allow venting to occur without requiring a separate adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventor: James Patrick Reible
  • Patent number: 8074632
    Abstract: An improved paintball gun uses a low-pressure pneumatic sear to hold the firing valve closed against the high pressure gas occupying the other side of the valve. In this manner, only one operation is required between depressing the trigger and the firing of the paintball gun because a double-acting cylinder is not required as an interface between the trigger depression and actuation of the valve. The paintball gun is also substantially faster than existing electro-pneumatic paintball guns because it uses a blow forward bolt, in which higher-pressure gas is held directly behind the bolt and has only one direction to travel during the firing of the paintball gun.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Kee Action Sports I LLC
    Inventor: Jerrold M. Dobbins
  • Publication number: 20110283984
    Abstract: An electric toy gun having therein a power break control mechanism consisting of an actuator, a power break control set and a swinging block for breaking off power supply upon triggering of the trigger when the clip is empty. When the clip is empty and when the trigger is pressed, the actuator is forced by a spring-loaded lift rod at the bullet outlet of the clip to move the swinging block and the power break control set, causing a power break holder to be moved away from a power contact holder, and therefore power supply is disconnected, avoiding waste of power supply and component damage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventor: Shih-Che HU
  • Publication number: 20110226227
    Abstract: A paintball marker that includes both a mechanical firing mode and an electronically-assisted firing mode. In the mechanical firing mode, the marker launches projectiles without the aid of electronics and therefore does not require an energy source, such as batteries. In the electronically-assisted firing mode, an electronic circuit initiates launching of projectiles. A mode selector is provided that allows a user to select between the mechanical firing mode and the electronically-assisted firing mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Douglas, Dennis J. Tippmann, JR.
  • Patent number: 7984708
    Abstract: Disclosed is a projectile launching apparatus capable of launching a projectile, such as a pellet, a BB, an arrow, a dart and a paintball. The projectile launching apparatus includes a motor driven linear motion converter, a cylinder, a breech assembly and a compression valve arrangement. The linear motion converter converts a rotational movement of a motor into a linear movement of a piston by a gear reduction mechanism. The linear movement of the piston within the cylinder compresses a gas with a high compression exponent. The compressed gas is further released into a barrel of the breech assembly through the compression valve arrangement. The compressed gas expands in the barrel causing a projectile to be launched from the barrel with a force of the compressed gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Impulse Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher Pedicni, John Witzigreuter
  • Patent number: 7967000
    Abstract: A paintball gun comprises: a body defining a gas storage chamber for connection to a source of pressurized gas, a breech into which paintballs can be loaded, and a hammer chamber; a bolt slidable in the breech and having a bolt inlet port; a hammer slidable in the hammer chamber and connected to the bolt; and a poppet valve comprising a valve body defining a valve inlet connected to the storage chamber, a valve outlet connected to the breech, and a blow back port connecting the inlet to the hammer chamber, and a valve member slidable in the valve body and movable between an open position, in which it allows gas to flow from the storage chamber through the valve inlet to the valve outlet, and a closed position in which it closes the valve, and a pair of magnets arranged to bias the poppet towards the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: WDP Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark Andrew Walker, John Ronald Rice
  • Publication number: 20110139139
    Abstract: A trigger assembly for a paintball gun preferably includes a trigger arranged to move between a forward and a rearward position. A position transducer is preferably arranged in communication with the trigger to detect an amount of movement of the trigger. The position transducer preferably generates a signal corresponding to the amount of movement of the trigger. A control circuit preferably receives the signal from the position transducer and initiates a firing operation of a firing device when the output signal characteristics satisfy certain predetermined parameters. In one embodiment, the control circuit initiates a firing operation when a change in the output signal is greater than a predetermined threshold value. A change in the output signal can be determined by comparing a present output signal value with a reference signal value. The reference signal value can be set when the trigger is at rest or when the trigger transitions from a forward movement to a rearward movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: SMART PARTS, INC.
    Inventors: Rocky Knuth, Dan Kanitz
  • Patent number: 7946285
    Abstract: A paintball gun preferably includes an electro-pneumatic flow distribution mechanism such as a solenoid valve having a port connected to a pneumatic mechanism. For instance, the solenoid valve may include an input port receiving compressed gas from a compressed gas supply and an output port connected to the pneumatic mechanism. The solenoid valve can be enabled to direct compressed gas to and/or from the pneumatic mechanism to operate a bolt. The bolt may be coupled to the pneumatic mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: KEE Action Sports, LLC
    Inventors: William M. Gardner, Jr., Adam C. Gardner
  • Patent number: 7931018
    Abstract: This specification discloses a structure of the paintball gun. It comprises a body, a pressuring set, and a triggering set. The body has an axial passage whose front end forms a paintball outlet. The triggering set and the pressuring set are disposed in sequence inside the passage. The triggering set has a bushing, a guide pillar, and a bolt. The bushing is fixed inside the passage. The bolt is mounted on the guide pillar and disposed together inside the bushing. Air after being pressurized by the pressing set enters the triggering set. A control valve controls the flow path of the air in the triggering set in order to push the guide pillar backward. The air thus pushes the bolt toward the paintball outlet of the passage for triggering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Inventor: Bao-Shyan Lai
  • Patent number: 7913679
    Abstract: A valve assembly according to the present invention includes a valve housing having a first end and a second end. A selectively closeable flow path runs through the valve housing. A valve body is disposed in the valve housing. The valve body is moveable from a first position closing the flow path to a second position opening the flow path. The valve body has a channel therethrough. A secondary chamber is provided adjacent the valve body in communication with the channel. An exhaust port is provided in communication with the secondary chamber. A solenoid is provided adjacent the secondary exhaust port, the solenoid adapted to selectively open the secondary exhaust port. A compressed gas gun employing the valve assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Kee Action Sports I LLC
    Inventors: Michael Quinn, Mel Maravilla, Kerry Johnson
  • Patent number: 7878076
    Abstract: A torque tool for measuring and/or cut-off tightening of a torque on a workpiece. The torque tool is provided within a housing with a handle. The torque to be measured is transmitted with a rod. A measuring element electronically detects the actual torque. A measure- and control electronics for processing the torque detected in such a way. The electronic measure and control electronics controls a cut-off switch for cutting-off the torque tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Eduard Wille GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Michael Lucke, Joachim Wilhelm
  • Patent number: 7870852
    Abstract: The pneumatically powered projectile launching device has a bolt located within a body. A front gas chamber in the body has an opening through which the bolt extends into the chamber. The bolt can move forward and backward thereby changing the volume of the front chamber. The bolt has a backward facing working surface. A gas valve in the body selectively releases compressed gas into the chamber. The released gas applies pressure on the backward facing working surface of the bolt to move the bolt forward, and then passes through a passage in the bolt to pneumatically force the projectile to leave the device. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Kingman International Corporation
    Inventor: Fabrice N. V. Halmone
  • Patent number: 7866307
    Abstract: A method of firing a paintball marker and dual trigger mechanism for a paintball marker are disclosed. The dual switch includes a first and a second trigger position sensors configured and arranged to detect the position of said trigger. A circuit is operatively connected to the first and second trigger position sensors and the projectile firing mechanism of the paintball marker. The circuit is configured to initiate a firing operation with said projectile firing mechanism when the first and second trigger position sensors indicate that the trigger has been depressed. The method includes the steps of detecting the position of the trigger with the first trigger position sensor and the second trigger position sensor and initiating a firing operation when the first and second trigger position sensors indicate that the trigger has been depressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Planet Eclipse Limited
    Inventor: Steven John Monks
  • Patent number: RE44328
    Abstract: A paintball gun having an internal pressure regulator is provided. The paintball gun includes a body, a launching tunnel, a rear lead shaft, the pressure regulator, and a back cover. A hollow barrel of the body allows the launching tunnel and the rear lead shaft to be accommodated successively therein. The pressure regulator is received in the rear lead shaft. The back cover is screwed to the body. Thereby, pressurized air coming from a gas cylinder is directly introduced to the pressure regulator so as for the paintball gun to dispense with any external air duct. Thus, the paintball gun poses no risk of duct burst and requires less assembling operation and fewer fixtures, thus reducing manufacturing costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Sunworld Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yi-Tsong Chen