For Launching Grenades Patents (Class 42/105)
  • Patent number: 7891130
    Abstract: A barrel latch safety for a grenade launcher having a barrel slidable upon a receiver via actuation of a barrel latch is provided. The barrel latch safety includes a locking plate and an elongate member extending from a portion thereof so as to define a crotch between the elongate member and a side edge of said locking plate. The subject safety is adapted to be positioned on the receiver such that a surface adjacent the side edge of the locking plate prohibits barrel latch actuation upon translation of the safety relative to the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: R/M Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd Griffin
  • Publication number: 20110016765
    Abstract: A barrel latch safety for a grenade launcher having a barrel slidable upon a receiver via actuation of a barrel latch is provided. The barrel latch safety includes a locking plate and an elongate member extending from a portion thereof so as to define a crotch between the elongate member and a side edge of said locking plate. The subject safety is adapted to be positioned on the receiver such that a surface adjacent the side edge of the locking plate prohibits barrel latch actuation upon translation of the safety relative to the receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Todd Griffin
  • Patent number: 7849628
    Abstract: A launcher system and method for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), wherein the launcher system comprises a barrel comprising a prepackaged internal pusher cup configured behind the UAV housed within the barrel; an expansion chamber operatively connected around the barrel, wherein the barrel extends out of a first end of the expansion chamber; a muzzle adapter operatively connected to a second end of the expansion chamber, wherein the first end of the expansion chamber is positioned opposite to the second end of the expansion chamber; a rifle slip-fitted to the muzzle adapter; and a stand operatively connected to the expansion chamber, wherein a triggering of the rifle causes the internal pusher cup to push the UAV out of the barrel at a predetermined launch velocity in order to attain a predetermined self-propelled flight trajectory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: John A. Condon, Timothy Brosseau, David Lyon
  • Patent number: 7797873
    Abstract: Improved sighting system for a fire arm, characterised in that it comprises a single indicator light (6); a sighting device (7) providing an alignment opening (8) with a longitudinal reference plane (XoX?) which is parallel or mainly parallel to the axis (Y-Y?) of the barrel (4) and which is aligned with the indicator light (6); an inclinometer to measure the elevation angle (A) of the fire arm (1); a ballistic calculator (9) connected to the indicator light (6) and to the inclinometer, making it possible to calculate the desired angle of inclination of the fire arm (1) as a function of the distance of the target (18) and to control the indicator light (6) so as to signal at what moment the measured elevation angle (A) corresponds to the calculated elevation angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: FN Herstal S.A.
    Inventors: Armand Gering, Tony Macaluso, René Joannes
  • Publication number: 20100192439
    Abstract: Damping apparatus for use with firearms are described herein. An example firearm described herein includes a barrel assembly mounted in a frame of the firearm. A damper apparatus is axially disposed between a breech assembly and a portion of the frame of the firearm opposite a muzzle end of the barrel assembly, wherein the damper apparatus is operatively coupled to the barrel assembly and slidably receives a firing pin guide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2009
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventor: Johannes Murello
  • Patent number: 7707762
    Abstract: A modular integrated rail system for a firearm includes an upper hand guard having a dovetail rail extending longitudinally between the forward end and the rearward end thereof. The rearward end of the upper hand guard includes a clamp that removably secures the upper hand guard to the barrel nut of the firearm. The rearward end of the upper hand guard and the clamp include clamping surfaces configured to cooperatively engage the outer surface of the barrel nut. The upper hand guard further includes mounting channels that are used to mount accessories, such as a lower hand guard or a grenade launcher, to the upper hand guard. The rear end of the upper hand guard includes alignment tabs for automatically aligning the dovetail rail of the upper hand guard with the dovetail rail of the upper receiver during mounting. The tabs also prevent rotation of the rail system relative to the upper receiver during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Inventor: Richard E. Swan
  • Patent number: 7690310
    Abstract: A high-pressure fixed munition for a low-pressure launching system having a cylindrical body with a centrally located bore is provided. The bore of the munition has a reduced diameter on the charge end in which a primer charge is positioned. The bore is filled above the primer charge with a propellant and above the propellant with a payload. The payload may include multiple buckshot pellets, frangible buckshot pellets, tear gas, multiple slugs, frangible slugs, paint balls, rubber pellets, bean bags, or the like. The munition may also include a pressure disk between the propellant and the payload, and tactile ridges or on the outside surface of the munition body or be of a specific color for purposes of identification of the payload.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Inventors: John Whitworth Engel, Kevin Dexter Dockery, Christopher Luchini
  • Publication number: 20090277069
    Abstract: Accessory mounting structure for securing accessory mounting rails to the barrel or other forward structure of a weapon comprises cooperatively shaped mounting ring halves that are secured to another over the barrel of the weapon. Accessory mounting rails are then secured to the mounting rings. Where the weapon is a grenade launcher, a quick-reload mechanism may additionally be provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventor: Ernest Delmonico
  • Patent number: 7526999
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a less-lethal projectile device generally comprising a projectile, such as a rubber-encapsulated metal block, that is mated to a docking base by way of a mounting tube. The projectile may be milled with a cavity located in its rearward section for enabling the projectile to fit onto the mounting tube portion of the docking base through compression. The projectile captures a fired bullet and is propelled along the original path of the bullet. The disclosed system results in a normally lethal weapon being converted into a less-lethal blunt impact system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventor: Bruce A. Timan
  • Patent number: 7500477
    Abstract: A combination for performing a variety of functions includes (a) apparatus for moving a projectile or other mass along an arcuate path and moving the path substantially radially along a local radius of curvature and (b) a tool, vehicle or other article for receiving such projectile and being moved thereby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Inventors: Paul A. Westmeyer, Renee Mazaheri
  • Patent number: 7490430
    Abstract: A device includes structure that can support the device on a weapon. One version of the device includes a first sight that facilitates weapon orientation in preparation to fire a first munition, and a second sight that facilitates weapon orientation in preparation to fire a second munition different from the first munition. A different version includes first and second sights that each facilitate weapon orientation, and an electronic control portion that is operatively coupled to and simultaneously exerts control with respect to each of the first and second sights, the first and second sights each displaying targeting information generated electronically by the electronic control portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: John R. Staley, III
  • Patent number: 7481167
    Abstract: A high-pressure fixed munition for a low-pressure launching system having a cylindrical body with a centrally located bore is provided. The bore of the munition has a reduced diameter on the charge end in which a primer charge is positioned. The bore is filled above the primer charge with a propellant and above the propellant with a payload. The payload may include multiple buckshot pellets, frangible buckshot pellets, tear gas, multiple slugs, frangible slugs, paint balls, rubber pellets, bean bags, or the like. The munition may also include a pressure disk between the propellant and the payload, and tactile ridges or on the outside surface of the munition body or be of a specific color for purposes of identification of the payload.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Inventors: John Whitworth Engel, Kevin Dexter Dockery, Christopher Luchini
  • Patent number: 7458179
    Abstract: A reconfigurable modular interface system for an integrated and standardized weapons system is disclosed. An upper accessory mount is provided that includes one interface for mounting to the desired primary mounting component, such as a firearm. The upper accessory mount further includes a second interface along its bottom edge for attaching accessories thereto. Accessories to be mounted into the modular interface system may either include mating formations that are provided as integrated OEM parts or through the use of retrofit adapter panels mounted to the secondary device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Inventor: Richard E. Swan
  • Publication number: 20080291075
    Abstract: A defensive aids suite for light armored vehicles utilizes four complementary sensor technologies including: visible and infrared optics, radar, acoustics and both laser and millimeter wave detection. Targeting and maneuvering optics are used for long-range threat detection with obscuration grenades and vehicle countermaneuvers being used to avoid a threat. Short range search and track radar is used with explosive or fragmentation grenades selected and launched to intercept and defeat the threat. Acoustic threat detection increases robustness and extends the detection range to include small calibers threats. Detection of active targeting systems by laser and radar warning receivers provides cueing information for targeting optics and fire control systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventor: John Rapanotti
  • Patent number: 7430825
    Abstract: The invention is a multi-shot launcher adapted to launch ring airfoil projectiles. Each ring airfoil projectile is coupled to a sabot, the ring airfoil projectile and sabot mounted to a housing in a cartridge form. The cartridge has a length which is less than its diameter. The launcher includes a receiver defining a cartridge receiving area and a tubular passage through which the ring airfoil is launched from a fired cartridge. The launcher includes a trigger mechanism for firing a cartridge. The launcher includes an ejector for ejecting the housing of a spent cartridge from the receiving area and a loader for loading a new cartridge into the receiving area. The cartridge may be loaded from a magazine connected to the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Flatau & Vanek, LLC
    Inventors: Chester Vanek, Abraham Flatau
  • Patent number: 7360478
    Abstract: A launcher which can be readily converted for use by either a right-handed or left-handed shot. The launcher has a receiver with upper and lower extensions extending forwardly from the receiver body. A barrel is pivotally mounted near forward portions of the extensions, in one of two positions, such that in one position it is pivotable from a home position aligned with the receiver and the extensions between the two extensions, to a load position with the breech of the barrel to the left, and such that in the other position it is pivotable from the home position, to a load position with the breech to the right. One way of accomplishing this is with a barrel support bracket to which the barrel is pivotally mounted, with the barrel support bracket being secured at or near the front of the receiver extensions, and being rotatable between two positions, each corresponding to a different swing direction for the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Colt Canada Corporation
    Inventors: David Walter Compton, Stephen John Sajkowski, Gwyn Morgan
  • Patent number: 7328530
    Abstract: A barrel latch safety for a grenade launcher having a barrel slidable upon a receiver via actuation of a barrel latch is provided. The barrel latch safety includes a locking plate and elongate member extending from a portion thereof so as to define a crotch between the elongate member and a side edge of locking plate. The subject safety is adapted to be positioned on their receiver such that a surface adjacent the side edge of the locking plate prohibits barrel latch actuation upon translation of the safety relative to the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: R/M Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd Griffin
  • Patent number: 7305788
    Abstract: A noise generation device is taught which is used in conjunction with a shotgun generating a blast which has a) at least one chamber for receiving the blast from the barrel; b) a connecting bolts for joining the one chamber to the barrel; c) at least one exhaust port for venting the blast from the barrel; d) a channeling ramp for directing the blast towards the vent, and a blade and drive for pushing the device through a wall. It also includes various noise and blast generators which may be used to supplement the initial blast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Inventor: John McLain
  • Patent number: 7296375
    Abstract: A launching cup has a horseshoe-shaped segment with a right and a left extension, each extension having a hole, and a pin can be inserted through the holes in the extensions to thereby prevent the launching cup from shaking or otherwise falling off the muzzle of the firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Inventor: Michael Brunn
  • Patent number: 7187291
    Abstract: A remotely controlled device (3) for controlling a remotely controlled launcher for dog training includes receiving circuitry (26,27) for receiving control information signals from a remote transmitter (2), controller (40) coupled to receive demodulated information from the receiving circuitry (26,27) and adapted to generate a control signal in response to the demodulated information, a coupling device (21A) for coupling the control signal to a control input of the animal training device (14-1), and a test circuit (33) responsive to a test switch (16) for testing continuity of the coupling by the coupling device (21A).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Tri-Tronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Crist, Timothy T. Duncan
  • Patent number: 7010879
    Abstract: Grenade launchers for attachment to gas-operated service rifles and carbines such as the M16 and M4 are improved by providing them with a trigger assembly that enables the shooter to deliver repeated hammer strikes to the primer of the loaded grenade without having to open the breach to reset the hammer and signals final aim indication via added trigger pull force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Knight's Armament Company
    Inventor: Douglas D. Olson
  • Patent number: 7007424
    Abstract: The invention is a multi-shot launcher adapted to launch ring airfoil projectiles. Each ring airfoil projectile is coupled to a sabot, the ring airfoil projectile and sabot mounted to a housing in a cartridge form. The cartridge has a length which is less than its diameter. The launcher includes a receiver defining a cartridge receiving area and a tubular passage through which the ring airfoil is launched from a fired cartridge. The launcher includes a trigger mechanism for firing a cartridge. The launcher includes an ejector for ejecting the housing of a spent cartridge from the receiving area and a loader for loading a new cartridge into the receiving area. The cartridge may be loaded from a magazine connected to the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventors: Chester Vanek, Abraham Flatau
  • Patent number: 6981449
    Abstract: A projectile launch assembly includes a launch tube having distal and proximal ends and an inwardly extending dimple structure therebetween, the proximal end being configured to receive a firearm muzzle, a receiver disposed on the distal end of the launch tube and having connector structure at a distal end thereof for connection to a projectile, an energy absorbing plug disposed in the launch tube and having a proximal end portion adjacent the dimple and a body portion extending distally, and an energy transfer piston disposed in the launch tube and having a proximal end configured complementarily to the plug and having a distal end configured complementarily to a proximal end of the receiver. A bullet leaving the firearm muzzle is absorbed by the plug which is thereby moved with the piston distally in the tube, the piston engaging the receiver to propel the launch assembly and projectile from the firearm muzzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: James E. Sadeck
  • Patent number: 6829858
    Abstract: Grenade launchers and methods to secure a grenade launcher to a firearm are disclosed. In an example method, if the firearm has a first fixed bearing and a first movable bearing separated by a first distance, (a) a first adapter is secured to the grenade launcher, (b) the first fixed bearing is secured to one of the grenade launcher and the first adapter, and (c) the first movable bearing is secured to the first adapter. If the second firearm has a second fixed bearing and a second movable bearing separated by a second distance, (a) a second adapter is secured to the grenade launcher, (b) the second fixed bearing is secured to one of the grenade launcher and the second adapter, and (c) the second movable bearing is secured to the second adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Heckler & Koch GmbH
    Inventor: JĂ¼rgen Gablowski
  • Publication number: 20040025395
    Abstract: Grenade launchers and methods to secure a grenade launcher to a firearm are disclosed. In an example method, if the firearm has a first fixed bearing and a first movable bearing separated by a first distance, (a) a first adapter is secured to the grenade launcher, (b) the first fixed bearing is secured to one of the grenade launcher and the first adapter, and (c) the first movable bearing is secured to the first adapter. If the second firearm has a second fixed bearing and a second movable bearing separated by a second distance, (a) a second adapter is secured to the grenade launcher, (b) the second fixed bearing is secured to one of the grenade launcher and the second adapter, and (c) the second movable bearing is secured to the second adapter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: Jurgen Gablowski
  • Patent number: 6688032
    Abstract: A rifle muzzle launched projectile having a launch tube defining an interior cavity, and having an opening at one end with an inner diameter sized to fit over the end of a rifle muzzle; a bullet trap located in the launch tube cavity; and a payload assembly mounted on the launch tube. The payload assembly is further configured for safely releasing a payload in a controlled manner. The payload assembly also includes a casing for retaining an aerosol composition; a propellant located in the casing; a primer for igniting the propellant; and a frangible portion of the casing in contact with the aerosol composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Noel Gonzalez, Daniel J. Hartman, William G. Rouse, Raymond J. Malecki, Paul W. Morgan
  • Patent number: 6594937
    Abstract: A sighting device is provided for a grenade launcher of a firearm which includes an automatic weapon and a grenade launcher. The sighting device can be attached to either side of the firearm to facilitate left-handed or right-handed shooting. The sighting device includes a front sight and a rear sight. Each of the front and rear sights are mounted for pivoting movement between a resting or storage position and a sighting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Heckler & Koch, GmbH
    Inventors: Berthold Weichert, Gerhard Gielke
  • Patent number: 6591535
    Abstract: A firearm is provided with a weapon operating system for firing large cartridges. The firearm may be a shoulder-fired, multi-shot, semiautomatic grenade launcher for firing grenade cartridges. The grenade launcher includes a magazine with a receptacle that holds one or more cartridges, a barrel, and a receiver coupled between the magazine and the barrel. The receiver includes a lightweight weapon operating system. Springs may be provided between the receiver and the magazine to isolate the receiver and barrel from the mass of cartridges in the magazine and the mounting resistance. A vernier feed system is disclosed for disengaging stacked cartridges in a tubular magazine from one another. A lifter based cartridge feed system is disclosed for magazine round control and/or chambering. A dwell is disclosed for retarding the breech lever after it has applied power to the accelerator lever during opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Armalite, Inc.
    Inventor: George L. Reynolds
  • Patent number: 6568118
    Abstract: A grenade launcher sighting assembly. A sighting apparatus for a grenade launcher having a barrel with a centerline is provided. The sighting apparatus has a mounting module that is alignable mountable to the barrel of the grenade launcher, wherein said mounting module is adapted to be attached to the barrel of the grenade launcher such that mounting module is consistently aligned with the centerline of the barrel. An adjustable range gradient is also provided. The adjustable range gradient is pivotally attached to said mounting module, wherein said range gradient has selectable a plurality of selectable positions, such that each selectable position has a yardage value and such that each selectable position corresponds to a particular trajectory wherein said grenade launcher will launch a grenade a distance that corresponds to the yardage value of selected position of said range gradient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: James W. Teetzel
  • Publication number: 20030089018
    Abstract: A firearm is provided with a weapon operating system for firing large cartridges. The firearm may be a shoulder-fired, multi-shot, semiautomatic grenade launcher for firing grenade cartridges. The grenade launcher includes a magazine with a receptacle that holds one or more cartridges, a barrel, and a receiver coupled between the magazine and the barrel. The receiver includes a lightweight weapon operating system. Springs may be provided between the receiver and the magazine to isolate the receiver and barrel from the mass of cartridges in the magazine and the mounting resistance. A vernier feed system is disclosed for disengaging stacked cartridges in a tubular magazine from one another. A lifter based cartridge feed system is disclosed for magazine round control and/or chambering. A dwell is disclosed for retarding the breech lever after it has applied power to the accelerator lever during opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventor: George L. Reynolds
  • Patent number: 6523478
    Abstract: A rifle muzzle launched projectile having a launch tube defining an interior cavity, and having an opening at one end with an inner diameter sized to fit over the end of a rifle muzzle; a bullet trap located in the launch tube cavity; and a payload assembly mounted on the launch tube. The payload assembly is further configured for safely releasing a payload in a controlled manner. The payload assembly also includes a casing for retaining an aerosol composition; a propellant located in the casing; a primer for igniting the propellant; and a frangible portion of the casing in contact with the aerosol composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Noel Gonzalez, Daniel J. Hartman, William G. Rouse, Raymond J. Malecki, Paul W. Morgan
  • Patent number: 6481145
    Abstract: An attachable grenade launcher is disclosed for installation on a rifle. The launcher has a grenade launching barrel that is pivotable about a stationary pin located near a muzzle of the barrel. The launcher also has a breech housing and a trigger assembly carried by the breech housing. The trigger assembly has a trigger and an impact plate. The launcher has a connection piece with a longitudinal slot. Th connection piece is integrally bound to the breech housing and carries the stationary pin. The connection piece circumferentially encapsulates the grenade launching barrel over at least a part of its length in such a manner that permits the grenade launching barrel to pivot about the stationary pin between a swung out position and a non-swung out position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Heckler & Koch GmbH
    Inventors: Berthold Weichert, JĂ¼rgen Gablowski, Gerhard Gielke
  • Patent number: 6453594
    Abstract: An interbar assembly (34) for reversibly attaching a supplemental device, e.g., grenade launcher (32), to a host weapon, e.g., rifle (10). A preferred interbar assembly (34) attaches at its forward end to the rifle barrel (16), and at its rearward end to a “brace” (37) located in the breech area of the rifle (10). In a preferred embodiment, such connection can be made without the need for special tools after simply removing the host weapon lower hand guard (26b), which is readily removable, but without any other alterations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: R/M Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd Griffin
  • Publication number: 20020092224
    Abstract: A sighting device is provided for a grenade launcher of a firearm which includes an automatic weapon and a grenade launcher. The sighting device can be attached to either side of the firearm to facilitate left-handed or right-handed shooting. The sighting device includes a front sight and a rear sight. Each of the front and rear sights are mounted for pivoting movement between a resting or storage position and a sighting position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventors: Berthold Weichert, Gerhard Gielke
  • Patent number: 6347476
    Abstract: A launching device for training dogs to retrieve comprising a plurality of projectiles arranged to be launched by the launching device of the type which can be retrieved by the dog, a projectile mount arranged to support the plurality of projectiles such that the plurality of projectiles can be positioned one at a time to be launched automatically, a gas chamber wherein the gas is arranged to produce a force to launch the projectile, an actuating arrangement to actuate the gas in the gas chamber, at least one gas supply container for supplying the gas to the chamber, a remote operating means to launch the projectiles from a distance and a valve arrangement for controlling the amount of gas entering the gas chamber. The projectile mount is on a shaft having an axis in which the projectile mount can rotate. A motor is arranged to drive the shaft about the axis. A disk is mounted at a respective end of the shaft arranged to rotate about the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Inventors: Bernard Tedford Cullen, Wayne Seyman Lewis
  • Patent number: 6343431
    Abstract: A cylindrical adaptor with legs bounding an oversized compartment for a cylindrical firearm barrel to be used in launching a grenade, in which the oversize provides fitting clearance for a range of barrel sizes, and including a sleeve threadably engaged about the multi-furcated legs so that in response to the threading of the sleeve the legs are cammed together removing the fitting clearance and firmly attaching the adaptor to the firearm barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Inventor: Michael Brunn
  • Publication number: 20010042334
    Abstract: An attachable grenade launcher is disclosed for installation on a rifle. The launcher has a grenade launching barrel that is pivotable about a stationary pin located near a muzzle of the barrel. The launcher also has a breech housing and a trigger assembly carried by the breech housing. The trigger assembly has a trigger and an impact plate. The launcher has a connection piece with a longitudinal slot. Th connection piece is integrally bound to the breech housing and carries the stationary pin. The connection piece circumferentially encapsulates the grenade launching barrel over at least a part of its length in such a manner that permits the grenade launching barrel to pivot about the stationary pin between a swung out position and a non-swung out position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Berthold Weichert, Jurgen Gablowski, Gerhard Gielke
  • Patent number: 6276085
    Abstract: An intrusion apparatus for safely propelling a non-lethal diversionary device into a structure through a barrier. The intrusion apparatus comprises an extension device adapted to be gripped by an individual and being movable generally towards the barrier by the individual. A support assembly is connected to the extension device. The support assembly serves to support the non-lethal diversionary device as the extension device is moved towards the barrier. A barrier breaking assembly is also supported by the extension device. The barrier breaking assembly forms an opening sized to receive the non-lethal diversionary device through the barrier as the extension device is being moved towards the barrier. A propelling assembly is also supported by the extension device. The propelling assembly serves to selectively propel the non-lethal diversionary device into the structure through the opening formed in the barrier at a non-lethal velocity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: Tactical & Rescue Equipment, LLC
    Inventors: Donald W. Wooten, Thomas J. Pilling, Robert M. Wohlfeld
  • Patent number: 6161322
    Abstract: Semi-automatic breech locking pistol having a reciprocally movable slice defining an upwardly and laterally outwardly open ejection port and a barrel including a rear part having a rearwardly extending headspace extension hood and exposed within and providing a closure for the ejection port in locked breech condition. A rearwardly open notch formed in the headspace extension hood facilitates determination of chamber status by direct visual observation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Smith & Wesson Corp.
    Inventor: Paul Liebenberg
  • Patent number: 6134823
    Abstract: An interbar assembly (34) for reversibly attaching a supplemental device, e.g., grenade launcher (32), to a host weapon, e.g., rifle (10). A preferred interbar assembly (34) attaches at its forward end to the rifle barrel (16), and at its rearward end to a "brace" (37) located in the breech area of the rifle (10). In a preferred embodiment, such connection can be made without the need for special tools after simply removing the host weapon lower hand guard (26b), which is readily removable, but without any other alterations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: R/M Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd Griffin
  • Patent number: 5983551
    Abstract: This invention relates to a remote controlled apparatus and method for training retrieving and other hunting dogs and replaces all functions field assistants would normally perform during training. These functions include throwing multiple birds and retrieving dummies from different locations, in various directions and at various heights and angles, a gun shot sound, visual and audible assistance for the dog and protecting stored birds and retrieving dummies from the inexperienced dog. The apparatus is low in profile, light weight and portable so that a single trainer can transport, setup and control the training procedure without the need of assistants. Numerous safety features have been developed which limit the possibility of accidental injury.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Tom Lalor
  • Patent number: 5945628
    Abstract: In a shell thrower, a grenade is inserted in a barrel and a booster charge under the grenade will fire and generate a gas pressure which forces the grenade out of the barrel. To improve the driving charge acting on the grenade, a pressure plate is detachably fixed under the grenade, and the booster charge is located on the underneath side of the pressure plate. An ignition mechanism for the booster charge is arranged on the underneath side of the pressure plate, which ignition mechanism is initiated by the impact of the pressure plate against the bottom or a shoulder of the barrel. A releasable engagement is arranged between the upper side of the pressure plate and the bottom of the grenade, which engagement includes a locking device, which is released from its locking position by a part of the driving pressure of the booster charge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Roheim System
    Inventor: Karl-Axel Roheim
  • Patent number: 5930935
    Abstract: An interbar assembly (34) for reversibly attaching a supplemental device, e.g., grenade launcher (32), to a host weapon, e.g., rifle (10). A preferred interbar assembly attaches at its forward end to the bayonet lug (54) of rifle (10), and at its rearward end to the magazine well (31) of rifle (10). In a preferred embodiment, such connection can be made without the need for special tools and without altering the rifle in any way prior to making the connection. The invention also includes a supplemental sling strap attachment point (100), so the sling strap (29) can be readily relocated after attaching the grenade launcher (32), for example, to the rifle (10). Another aspect of the invention is a grenade launcher (for example) sight (104) mounted directly on the interbar assembly (34) that carries the grenade launcher (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Assignee: R/M Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd Griffin
  • Patent number: 5926987
    Abstract: The cartridge indicator is a rod slidably mounted in a cavity in the breech slide of a firearm to allow checking for the presence of a cartridge in the chamber. The rod has a check end which protrudes out of the breech slide as biased by a spring at the chamber end of the rod in the cavity. The chamber end of the rod has attached a chamber pin which slides in a pin cavity in the breech slide. When the check end is pushed into the breech slide by the user, if the chamber has no cartridge, the chamber pin moves into the chamber and the check end is pushed into the breech slide thereby indicating an empty chamber. If the chamber pin encounters a cartridge, the check end can not be pushed into the breech slide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Inventor: Peter Novak
  • Patent number: 5872326
    Abstract: Avalanches, such as snow avalanches, are triggered with an explosive char The charge is propelled into a potential avalanche slope and detonated therein. The explosive charge is first located in a tube which is closed at one end and which also houses a propelling charge with which the explosive charge is propelled from the tube into the avalanche slope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: Konrad Doppelmayr & Sohn Maschinenfabrik Gesellschaft mbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Michael Manhart
  • Patent number: 5852253
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a personal firearm system characterized by the fact that it comprises at least two launch barrels (300, 500) and damper means (400) associated with at least a main barrel (300) and adapted to limit the recoil force generated thereby on firing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1998
    Assignee: Etienne Lacroix Tous Artificess.A.
    Inventors: Jean Baricos, Guy Valembois, Michel Castarede
  • Patent number: 5824942
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved method and device for aiming and firing a rifle-mounted grenade launcher without having to approximate the range of a target and then manually adjust the position of subsequently fired grenades. The grenadier initiates the process by pointing the grenade launcher at the target. The range and azimuth of the target are determined by a microprocessor controlled laser range finder/digital compass combination. A ballistic solution is calculated by the microprocessor and the superelevation required to place the grenade on target is displayed on one of several video displays. The grenadier then uses the vertical angle measurement capability of the laser range finder/digital compass assembly to rotate the grenade launcher to the proper angle while maintaining the proper azimuth. The grenade is then fired on target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Gary J. Mladjan, Douglas A. Anderson, Clarence E. Dickson
  • Patent number: 5811713
    Abstract: Apparatus for launching a projectile comprising a male launching tube having an attachment end and a discharge end opposite from the attachment end, an energy device having a discharge end and having the capability of producing an instantaneous discharge of gas under high pressure from its discharge end, the attachment end of the male launching tube being connected to the discharge end of the energy device whereby the high pressure gases discharging from the discharge end of the energy device are passed through the male launching tube and out the discharge end thereof, a collar mounted on the male launching tube between the discharge end and the attachment end, and a projectile adapted to be mounted on the male launching tube between the discharge end thereof and the collar whereby, when the energy device discharges gas therefrom under high pressure, the projectile will be launched into ballistic flight, the collar having a port extending radially therethrough to the male launching tube, wherein the male laun
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Inventor: John Gudgel
  • Patent number: 5806229
    Abstract: An aiming system is provided which includes two sensors. The two sensors sense two respective images of the same object relative to a common reference point. An offset is determined between the respective images of the object. An aiming point is provided on the second image and is spaced from the reference point according to the offset. The aiming point indicates the direction and distance to which the first sensor must be moved to be aligned with the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Raytheon TI Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Lino C. Daz, Charles M. Hanson
  • Patent number: 5808226
    Abstract: A conventional grenade shell launcher contains a laser generator shell thin which directs a blinding flash of light at an adversary to temporarily induce blindness of the adversary carrying out unlawful or dangerous actions such as pointing a weapon at police officers or others. The laser generator shell can be rapidly removed from the launcher, and conventional tear gas grenades or the like can be fired by the grenade launcher at the adversary to induce his surrender. This mode of operation is enabled by detachably coupling a laser triggering transmitter to the launcher. The wide angle light beam directed at the adversary also eliminates the need to accurately aim the device to disable the adversary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air Force
    Inventors: Michael S. Allen, Andreas G. Keipert, John D. German, Jr., Mark W. Gaddis