Trigger Lock Patents (Class 42/70.06)
  • Patent number: 8127657
    Abstract: A safety selector for selectively implementing a firing disabled position for the prevention of unintentional firing of a firearm. The safety selector comprises two prongs adapted to push a cross bolt safety actuation lever to the right or to the left. A DC electrical motor provides torque, which is transferred through a torque transferring mechanism, to the safety selector. The safety selector is particularly useful for actuation via remote control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Rafael-Armamen-Defence Systems Ltd
    Inventors: Giora Gorali, Moshe Oz, Nativ Shahak
  • Patent number: 8127482
    Abstract: A firearm enabling and disabling electronic system comprising a base unit (1) and a safety device (4) adapted to be incorporated into a firearm (7). Each of the base unit (1) and the safety device (4) has a transmitter and/or receiver (2, 5) adapted to exchange and process wireless command signals with each other. The safety device (4) has an actuating circuit (6) which is controlled by the transmitter and/or receiver (5) of the safety device (4) and is adapted to actuate a locking mechanism (8), wherein in the locking mechanism is operable to prevent a firearm from firing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventors: Patrick O'Shaughnessy, Robert Gerard McNamara
  • Publication number: 20110308129
    Abstract: This invention is related to a trigger (1) which prevents the rifle from being damaged and which improves the user safety by preventing unintentional firing (rifle's falling down to the ground, hitting any place, etc.) as long as the trigger lever (5) is not pulled by the user. The safety comprises a lock (8) acting against a security spring (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventor: Bahtiyar Tasyagan
  • Publication number: 20110271574
    Abstract: A firing inhibition system for a firearm includes an electromechanical actuator electrically connected to a dynamic grip recognition module including at least one sensor and a microcontroller, wherein the at least one sensor is located in a portion of a firearm operable to receive grip pressure from a user and wherein the at least one sensor is operable to transmit a signal to the microcontroller, wherein the microcontroller is operable to receive programming comprising grip pressure of an authorized user and is operable to interpret whether the grip pressure of the user matches the grip pressure of the authorized user, and to send a signal to the electromechanical actuator to actuate or to not actuate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: New Jersey Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Timothy N. Chang, Daphne Chang, Biao Cheng
  • Patent number: 8051599
    Abstract: A percussive rodent trap has an activation mechanism and a hammer for striking a percussive device when the activation mechanism is activated. A first safety moves the hammer mechanism to a cocked position and prevents it from being released from this cocked position. A second safety can be engaged after the first safety is engaged to prevent the activation mechanism from being activated when the first safety is removed. The second safety is easily removed after the trap is put in place without inadvertently activating the activation mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Triple-T Machining Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Vernon J. Reitenbaugh, Sr.
  • Patent number: 8037632
    Abstract: A firearm including a trigger-actuated firing mechanism, a safety device that selectively prevents and permits the firing mechanism to be actuated, and an authentication device that cooperates with the safety device and which recognizes a feature of an authorized shooter, wherein the safety device is nominally in a position that permits the firing mechanism to be actuated and is moved to a position that prevents the firing mechanism from being actuated only if the authentication device does not recognize a would-be shooter as an authorized shooter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Inventor: Dov Pikielny
  • Publication number: 20110219656
    Abstract: A striker-fired firearm with lockable manual safety and method of use. The firearm in one embodiment includes a frame, a chamber for receiving a cartridge, a striker movable to strike the cartridge, a trigger movably mounted to the frame, a trigger bar coupled to the trigger and operable to engage and release the striker to discharge the firearm, a manually-operated safety adapted to engage the trigger bar and selectively movable between a first deactivated position and a second activated position wherein the safety engages the trigger bar to prevent release of the striker, and a cylindrical locking member rotationally disposed in the frame. In one embodiment, the locking member, which may be a lock pin in some embodiments, includes a blocking surface that is engageable with the safety. The blocking surface is rotatable to a blocking position wherein the safety cannot be moved from the second activated position to the first deactivated position by a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventor: James McGarry
  • Patent number: 8015741
    Abstract: A device for assisting in the chambering of a handgun that can also serve as a safety device for preventing unwanted firing of the handgun is disclosed. The device comprises a slide pull that includes an elongate laterally flexible structure having a first end configured for being releasably coupled to a first side of a slide of a handgun and a second end configured for being releasably coupled to a second side of the slide. A trigger restraint is coupled to the slide pull near a mid-portion thereof. In a first position, the slide pull is configured for being grasped by a user in order to chamber a bullet. In a second position, the trigger restraint is positioned relative to the trigger to prevent movement of the trigger that would otherwise cause the weapon to fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventor: Douglas Hooks
  • Publication number: 20110061280
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a safety device for a firearm with a trigger bar in said firearm. The trigger bar moves in response to a pulling of a trigger. An actuator in said firearm is adapted to actively move said trigger bar between a first position and a second position. The trigger bar engages in the trigger induced movement with a hammer link for releasing a hammer and firing a cartridge bullet when the trigger bar is in the first position or first state. However, said trigger bar does not engage in the trigger induced movement with the hammer link, such that the cartridge bullet is not fired, when the trigger bar is in the second position or state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Inventors: Dietmar Emde, Karl-Friedrich Giebel
  • Patent number: 7900622
    Abstract: A paintball marker with a barrel that is coupled to a receiver. The marker may include a grip assembly in which an electronic circuit is disposed. The electronic circuit is configured to actuate launching of a projectile responsive to the trigger moving to the firing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Tippmann Sports LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Douglas, Dennis J. Tippmann, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110010978
    Abstract: A device for assisting in the chambering of a handgun that can also serve as a safety device for preventing unwanted firing of the handgun is disclosed. The device comprises a slide pull that includes an elongate laterally flexible structure having a first end configured for being releasably coupled to a first side of a slide of a handgun and a second end configured for being releasably coupled to a second side of the slide. A trigger restraint is coupled to the slide pull near a mid-portion thereof. In a first position, the slide pull is configured for being grasped by a user in order to chamber a bullet. In a second position, the trigger restraint is positioned relative to the trigger to prevent movement of the trigger that would otherwise cause the weapon to fire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventor: Douglas Hooks
  • Publication number: 20100287807
    Abstract: The invention presented in this work creates the possibility of a portable gun—revolver, pistol, carbine, riffle or hand-machine gun, to recognize its owner, in progressive levels of handling safety. Three levels of handling safety are established based on the evaluation of the grip force or its effect through material deformation or strain gage measurement. The first level of handling safety does not allow persons with grip force below a given limit, to shoot with a gun. The second level of handling safety enables the portable gun to recognize an individual as belonging to a smaller group than the first level. Now, the gun will only recognize for a successful firing an individual whose grip force, measured by one strain gage, fit into a small operational range, established and stored at the moment of acquisition by the owner. The third level of handling safety enables a portable gun to recognize an individual, as belonging to an even smaller group than in the second level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2010
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventors: Jose Carlos Albano Do Amarante, Roque Marcelo Versolato, Luis Cristovao de Moraes Sobrino Porto
  • Publication number: 20100281740
    Abstract: A weapon conditionally activates a cartridge. The cartridge has a projectile and a first mechanical feature. The weapon includes an activator and a station. The activator includes a second mechanical feature. The station positions the cartridge so that the first feature opposes the second feature. On condition that the first feature does not mechanically interfere with the second feature, the activator activates the cartridge to launch the projectile from the cartridge. On condition that the first feature mechanically interferes with the second feature resulting in an excess head space, the activator is inhibited by the excess head space from activating the cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventors: Alan I. Mossberg, Alan Iver Mossberg, JR., William C. Lutton, Joseph H. Bartozzi, Mark A. Hanchett, Patrick W. Smith
  • Publication number: 20100269391
    Abstract: Catches and trigger apparatus for use with weapons are described. An example trigger apparatus for use with a firearm having a breech includes a latch moveable between a blocking position that blocks the breech and a non-blocking position that does not block the breech. The latch includes a sear arm, a spring assembly, and a securing element moveable between a first position and a second position. The spring assembly is to bias the securing element. In the first position, the securing element is positioned at a distance from the sear arm and a surface of a securing device in a securing position to enable the latch to be moved to the non-blocking position and the breech to retract relative to the weapon. In the second position, the securing element is positioned adjacent the sear arm via the breech and the surface of the securing device in the securing position to secure the latch in the blocking position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Inventors: Stefan Doll, Ernst Wössner
  • Patent number: 7810269
    Abstract: A trigger safety for a firearm having a frame and slide. The safety includes a safety assembly frame mountable within the firearm frame. The safety also includes at least one actuator operatively attached to the safety assembly frame, the actuator being capable of selectively moving the safety assembly frame between a first position and a second position. The assembly frame also has an abutment surface. In the first position the abutment surface contacts a trigger bar of the firearm preventing movement of the trigger and discharge of the firearm while allowing the slide to be cycled and in the second position the abutment surface is not in contact with the trigger bar and the firearm can be discharged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Smith & Wesson Corp.
    Inventors: Gary E. Zukowski, Sean O'Clair, Brett Curry
  • Publication number: 20100175292
    Abstract: A trigger assembly including a housing having an upper portion, a lower portion, a front portion, a rear portion, a first side portion and a second side portion. A recess is defined in the housing between the upper portion and the lower portion. First and second guide channels are defined in the first side portion and the second side portion respectively. A trigger lever is configured to pivot within the housing about a pivot point positioned at least partially within the housing, the trigger lever having a body, a trigger bar extending in a first direction from the body, and a safety bar extending in a section direction from the body. A safety mechanism includes a first guide rail, a second guide rail spaced apart from the first guide rail, and a blocking member extending between the first guide rail and the second guide rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: DESERT MANUFACTURING, LLC
    Inventor: Nicholas E. Young
  • Publication number: 20100162605
    Abstract: A bolt action firearm includes a bolt assembly with a bolt body having an outer surface defining a longitudinal guide channel extending along a length of the bolt body from a rearward end to a forward end. A receiver defines a central longitudinally extending bore for accommodating the bolt body. A bolt guide is configured to be coupled to the receiver. The bolt guide includes a projection configured for traveling in the guide channel when moving the bolt body in the receiver so as to ensure that the bolt body is at a predetermined correct angular orientation within the receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Applicant: Thompson Center Arms Company Inc.
    Inventors: Mark C. Laney, Matthew Zglobicki
  • Patent number: 7698846
    Abstract: The invention presented in this work creates the possibility of a portable gun—revolver, pistol, carbine, riffle or hand-machine gun, to recognize its owner, in progressive levels of handling safety. Three levels of handling safety are established based on the evaluation of the grip force or its effect through material deformation or strain gage measurement. The first level of handling safety does not allow persons with grip force bellow a given limit, to shoot with a gun. The second level of handling safety enables the portable gun to recognize an individual as belonging to a smaller group than the first level. Now, the gun will only recognize for a successful firing an individual whose grip force, measured by one strain gage, fit into a small operational range, established and stored at the moment of acquisition by the owner. The third level of handling safety enables a portable gun to recognize an individual, as belonging to an even smaller group than in the second level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventors: José Carlos Albano Do Amarante, Roque Marcelo Versolato, Luis Cristovão de Moraes Sobrino Porto
  • Publication number: 20100083550
    Abstract: A trigger blocking device comprised of a frame removably affixed around a trigger guard of a rifle. The trigger blocking device holds a blocking shaft behind the trigger, the shaft being capable of sliding longitudinally or axially into two separate positions, one position where the shaft blocks the operation of the trigger and the other position where a recessed area in the shaft forms a trigger channel, when moved into position, allows the operation of the trigger. The blocking shaft extends across the frame and is positioned behind the trigger. When the blocking shaft is behind the trigger in a first position with the trigger channel not aligned with the trigger, the blocking shaft prevents rearward movement of the trigger, preventing the firearm from firing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: BRENSHOK LLC
    Inventor: Daniel OGERSHOK
  • Patent number: 7661220
    Abstract: A firearm trigger assembly for use with a firearm includes a trigger mounted to a forestock of the firearm so that the trigger is movable between a rest position and a triggering position by a forwardly placed support hand of a user. An elongated trigger member operatively associated with the trigger operates a sear assembly of the firearm when the trigger is moved to the triggering position. An action release assembly operatively associated with the firearm trigger assembly and a movable assembly of the firearm prevents the trigger from being moved to the triggering position when the movable assembly is not in the locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC
    Inventors: David L. Crandall, Richard W. Watson
  • Patent number: 7658028
    Abstract: A firearm security device including a frame to which a fixed plate and a movable plate are attached. A grip pad is attached to each of the opposing inner sides of the fixed and movable plates. A trigger guard stud is attached to and projects from the inner face of the fixed plate. The trigger guard stud inserts through the trigger guard of the firearm. Means are provided for shifting the movable plate from an open position wherein the firearm is positioned with the trigger guard stud projecting through the trigger guard, to a closed position where the movable plate is positioned substantially parallel to the fixed plate and at least a portion of the receiver of the firearm is held in a compressive grip between the grip pads. A lock selectively restricts operation of the shifting means and the movable plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Inventors: Kevin B. Pintar, Robert W. Corrigan
  • Patent number: 7600339
    Abstract: Weapons safety systems and methods of operating the system are described. An example weapons safety system in which the enabling of a weapon to shoot is controlled by means of an exchange of identification between the weapon and an enabling apparatus. An example weapon includes a weapon identification code and a safety device. An example enabling apparatus that is designed to capture the weapon identification code and to transmit an enabling signal to the safety device in the weapon includes a control unit. The control unit controls the enabling device and includes an identification memory that includes at least one registered weapon identification. Upon receiving a control signal from the enabling apparatus, the weapon transmits an identification signal that contains the weapon identification code. In addition, the enabling apparatus sends a weapon-enabling signal if the weapon identification code matches at least one of the registered weapon identification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Heckler & Koch, GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Schumacher, Rudi Beckmann, Marc Roth
  • Publication number: 20090223104
    Abstract: A safety device (1) for fire-arms (11), includes actuator elements (10; 10?; 19, 20, 21, 21?, 22), suitable to engage with mechanical parts of the fire-arm (11) so as to prevent and/or permit its operation; and a control unit (2), operatively connected with the actuator elements (10; 10?; 19, 20, 21, 21?, 22), the control unit (2) including transceiving elements (3), cooperating with certification outer members brought by an authorised user (U) for exchanging signals with the same for codified remote control of the actuator elements (10; 10?; 19, 20, 21 , 21?, 22). A remote control system for one or more firearms provided with the safety device is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Applicant: FAMIGLIA ANZELONI S.R.L.
    Inventor: Massimiliano Anzeloni
  • Patent number: 7584566
    Abstract: A securing system that includes a first wall portion adapted to be attached to a surface; and a second wall portion separable from the first wall portion and adapted to be removable engaged with the first wall portion; the second wall portion including an opening for receiving a projecting member from a male portion of a locking mechanism, wherein the second wall portion is disposed between the male portion and the female portion of the locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Inventors: Hugh Victor, Steven Lawrence Carolin
  • Patent number: 7562480
    Abstract: Firearms protected from unauthorized use are disclosed. A disclosed firearm comprises a housing having a handle; a safety located in the housing to selectively prevent firing; and a module removably attachable to the handle and containing an electronic identification device to identify an authorized user. The electronic identification device controls the safety to prevent firing by unauthorized persons and to permit firing by the authorized user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Heckler & Koch, GmbH
    Inventors: Ernst Mauch, Michael Schumacher
  • Patent number: 7562479
    Abstract: A set trigger assembly that enables a user of a firearm with a trigger, return spring plunger, and a return spring plunger spring to modify the trigger mechanism on-demand to reduce the trigger pressure required to fire the firearm by enabling the user to retract the return spring plunger and then return the return spring plunger to its initial position by insertion of a lever which is used to apply force to a return spring plunger so as to force the return spring plunger away from the trigger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Inventors: Denny Williams, Dick Abraham
  • Publication number: 20090158634
    Abstract: A handgun includes a housing with a grip and a trigger guard, a first axle located within the housing, a trigger pivoting about the first axle and provided between the grip and the trigger guard, a second axle within the housing in a transition zone between the trigger guard and the grip, a two-armed lever pivotably mounted about the second axle against a spring force, a first arm of the lever, in a locking position, engaging the trigger, to be a safety, the lever with its second arm ending in a finger contact region of a firing hand, and projecting beyond the grip contour on a front of the grip such that the lever is pivotable when grasping the grip to release the trigger, the second lever arm, in the release position, being accommodated in a longitudinal slot provided in the transition zone between the trigger guard and the grip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventor: Wilhelm Bubits
  • Patent number: 7506468
    Abstract: A firearm monitoring system according to the present invention senses the position of a user hand or trigger finger on a weapon and generates a warning, notification, status or control signal when the user finger position is proximate the trigger. One embodiment generates and conditions an excitation stimulus (e.g., interrupted by the presence of a trigger actuator), drives a sensor with that stimulus, detects the user finger position through a change in the sensor output, and generates an appropriate signal for a downstream warning or other device (e.g., alarm, radio unit, laser sighting system, etc.). In this embodiment, the sensor may detect the presence of an object or finger penetrating a trigger guard plane. Another embodiment utilizes a set of sensors to detect the placement of a user trigger finger relative to the trigger. In addition, various types of output alarms may be utilized (e.g., visual and audio alarms, etc.).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Inventors: Michael Anthony Farrell, Calin William Brabandt
  • Publication number: 20090044438
    Abstract: The present invention relates to lock mechanisms, in which the trigger (2) in the trigger group (12) comprising a safety lock (6) is contacted with the hammer (3) through a contact point (11) so that the respective gun is prevented from firing as a result of the hammer (3) being released by the trigger (2) under jolting effect, said lock mechanism being characterized by comprising at least one trigger lock (1), in addition to said safety lock (6), said trigger lock (1) being contacted by at least one swinging point (9) formed on the trigger group (12) in order to prevent the trigger (2) from releasing the hammer (3) under jolting effect by setting into motion with a certain force from said swinging point (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicants: Ata Ev Tufekleri Sanayi Ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Armsan Silah Sanayi Ve Ticaret Anonim Sirketi
    Inventor: FATIH YOLLU
  • Publication number: 20080222935
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved multiple piece grip safety for handguns. The safety comprises a fixed main body and two interfacing pivoting members, pivoting about the top and bottom of the grip respectively. The two interfacing pivoting members counteract each other to prevent accidental disengagement of the safety while also providing a more efficient purposeful disengagement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventor: Ned F. Christiansen
  • Publication number: 20080163531
    Abstract: A trigger safety for a firearm having a frame and slide. The safety includes a safety assembly frame mountable within the firearm frame. The safety also includes at least one actuator operatively attached to the safety assembly frame, the actuator being capable of selectively moving the safety assembly frame between a first position and a second position. The assembly frame also has an abutment surface. In the first position the abutment surface contacts a trigger bar of the firearm preventing movement of the trigger and discharge of the firearm while allowing the slide to be cycled and in the second position the abutment surface is not in contact with the trigger bar and the firearm can be discharged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Applicant: SMITH & WESSON CORP.
    Inventors: GARY E. ZUKOWSKI, SEAN O'CLAIR, BRETT CURRY
  • Publication number: 20080078284
    Abstract: Firearms, breechblock stops for firearms and methods of operating the same are disclosed. An example firearm includes a trigger that requires a force to be released, a trigger guard, a breechblock, and a spring-loaded breechblock stop that is operable between a resting position and an operative position. The example breechblock stop includes a slider control that has a control extension in the trigger guard. The firearm also includes a removable ammunition magazine that includes a follower. The breechblock stop may be moved between an operative position and a resting position by one of engagement with the follower of the magazine or actuation of the slider in a direction of operation essentially perpendicular to force releasing the trigger. Furthermore, the breechblock is unlocked in a released position when the breechblock stop is in the resting position, and the breechblock is locked in an open position when the breechblock stop is in the operative position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventor: Johannes Murello
  • Patent number: 7278327
    Abstract: Simultaneous pressure and position information is accurately measured in a sensor realized by utilizing first and second sensor elements that each exhibit a decreasing width over the length of the sensor element and that are arranged overlapping each other and in a substantially complementary orientation to one another with respect to the width so that the point of narrowest width of the first sensor element overlaps the point of the widest width of the second sensor element. Pressure applied to the sensor causes each sensor element to generate an electrical signal that is proportional to both the applied pressure and the surface area at the location of the applied pressure. As a result of the complementary orientation and overlapping for these sensor elements, the first and second sensor elements generate an asymmetric pair of signals that uniquely define the applied pressure by position and magnitude.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: New Jersey Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Timothy N. Chang, Biao Cheng
  • Patent number: 7216449
    Abstract: A firearm safety device for a firearm having a trigger and trigger guard. The firearm safety device includes first and second assemblies adapted to be secured to the firearm on opposite sides of the trigger guard to prevent access to and actuation of the trigger. The firearm safety device includes a lip disposed on at least one of the first and second assemblies for overlapping the other assembly when the safety device is secured to the firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Child Guard LLC
    Inventors: J. Terry Riebling, William T. Hughes, David Koltas, Bernie Schaub
  • Patent number: 7180425
    Abstract: The invention is aimed at preventing apparatus damage, loss of data, accidental firing of a firearm due to dropping or subjection to an impact, and other mishaps caused by accidental dropping or improper handling of the apparatus, firearm, etc. due to carelessness on the side of users. To achieve this, a drop detecting means is provided that detects the dropping of the apparatus when the apparatus is dropped, and control is performed so as to set the apparatus in a safe condition in response to a drop detection signal supplied by the drop detecting means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventor: Mitsuhiro Yuasa
  • Patent number: 7051468
    Abstract: The invention relates to a locking device for a pistol, for which by means of a cylinder lock (10, 11), which is arranged in the handle of the weapon behind the magazine shaft (21), a locking element (7, 19) can be brought from one position in which it extends into the path of motion of a part (20) of the trigger mechanism (4), into a position in which it does not hinder the motion of the trigger. According to the invention, the moving parts (9, 8, 7) of the locking device execute purely rotational motions and preferably the locking element formed as a locking shaft (7) is provided over a section formed as a cam (19).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: Gaston Glock
  • Patent number: 7036258
    Abstract: Firearm safety block devices and methods of use increase the pressured needed to pull back on triggers to cause a firearm to discharge the first shot A block member can be mounted on the firearm at different locations such as above, inside the trigger and behind the trigger. The invention can provide different block members having frangible areas that are broken or bent at selected side imposed pressures. Breaking, shearing or bending the block members is required to operate the firing mechanism as needed to cause the firearm to discharge. A spent frangible block member can be removed and replaced. When the firearm safety block is not applicable the block member can be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventors: Lanny Ray Lee, Brian Eric Lee
  • Patent number: 7030729
    Abstract: An electromechanical safety for weapons (1), provided with a mechanical safety device, includes a base electronic unit, actuating an electromechanical transducer (2) acting on the safety mechanical device, and a transponder (5), the base unit providing a central control and processing unit, connected with a transceiver unit (4), continuously transmitting an enquiry signal, able to talk with the transponder (5), when the latter is within the transmission range of the transceiver unit (4), the transponder (5) having no power supply and receiving the power necessary to its operation from the signal transmitted by the transceiver unit (4), said at least one transponder (5) transmits, an identification code and the base unit actuates the electromechanical transducer (2) in such a way to release the safety mechanical device when receives an identification code corresponding to a code stored in the base unit and actuating the electromechanical transducer (2) in such a way to insert the safety mechanical device as so
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Inventors: Luciano Albanesi, Benedetto Ottavi
  • Patent number: 7000345
    Abstract: A shotgun comprises a receiver made from a first material; barrel having a portion extending into the receiver and made from a second material; a collar nut securing the barrel to the receiver; a bolt assembly disposed within the receiver and including a locking block configured to project into the barrel portion and lock the bolt assembly to the barrel prior to firing, the bolt assembly including a firing pin; and a trigger mechanism including a hammer for striking the firing pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: Ira M. Kay
  • Patent number: 6957508
    Abstract: A safety lever (safety control member) is provided in its inner surface with first, second and third positioning holes. The tapered outer end part of a safety lock (trigger blocking member) is engaged in the first positioning hole of the safety lever to retain the safety lever at a perfect lock position. In this state, the forward turning of the upper arm of the trigger is blocked by the safety lock. Thus, the trigger cannot turn even if the same is pulled. Since the safety lock is fitted in a sliding hole formed in a casing so as to be slidable in directions perpendicular to a plane in which the trigger turns, and force applied to the trigger is born by the casing, the safety lock does not deform and is able to block the movement of the trigger with reliability even if the trigger is pulled strongly. In this state where the safety lever is at the perfect lock position, the bolt blocking part of the safety lever is engaged in a groove formed in a bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Howa Machinery, Ltd.
    Inventor: Teruhiko Sato
  • Patent number: 6948273
    Abstract: The hammer of a gun has a channel in its front face, making direct contact between the hammer and the gun's firing pin impossible. The tip of a transfer bar retained within the channel moves to fill the channel and thus permit firing of the gun, only when the trigger is pulled. This construction avoids certain types of accidental discharge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Henry Repeating Arms Company
    Inventor: Richard Baker
  • Patent number: 6874265
    Abstract: A locking system for firearms that utilizes an owner's fingerprint to lock and unlock it is disclosed. Upon initial observation of the invention, it appears like a conventional fire arm lock that goes around the trigger and immobilizes it. Fingerprint sensors are provided that will only acknowledge the fingerprint and thumb print of the gun owner. When the owner touches the sensors once, the present invention will unlock, and when they are touched again, it will lock. A small computerized chip, in conjunction with a lithium battery and an advancement mechanism such as a stepper motor perform the actual locking duties. The housing of the invention is made of titanium to prevent tampering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventor: Sumit M. Pathak
  • Patent number: 6856238
    Abstract: Apparatus (10) and a method for rendering a weapon (12) incapable of use unless authorized by a specified individual. More than one person may be authorized to use the weapon, however only one person may be authorized to use it at any one time. Each authorized person carries a badge (14) or other device which includes an rf transmitter (TAU) capable of transmitting a coded signal to a receiver (REU) installed in the weapon in response to a coded query from a unit (EU) installed in the weapon. If a properly coded transmission is received by the weapon, it becomes capable of being fired by the person who authorized its use. However, the weapon will not fire unless the person using the weapon is also standing behind the weapon. This prevents the weapon from being turned on the person authorized to use it. The apparatus stores details of the weapon's use (e.g., who, when, and where). This information is released upon receipt of an authorized code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Inventors: John R. Wootton, F. Maury Matthews, J. Joseph Muller
  • Patent number: 6851213
    Abstract: A trigger lock is shown which rotates from a fire position in which the trigger can operate and to a no-fire position in which the trigger cannot operate. The lock is located primarily within the frame. A thumb lever or a key can be used to engage the trigger lock to rotate the trigger lock from the fire to the no-fire position and vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventor: Gerald J. Doiron
  • Patent number: 6843014
    Abstract: A shape memory alloy serves to actuate or inhibit the function of a semi-automatic pistol in response to an identification signal produced by an identifier. The identifier operates to either detect the present or absence of an authorized user thereby enabling or disabling the function of the weapon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Sergio J. Aponte, Clinton D. Fischer, Louis E. Schnibbe
  • Patent number: 6843013
    Abstract: A trigger assembly is adapted to replace the trigger and trigger safety assembly supplied in pistols for enhancing safety features. The invention is formed by a sideways insertable locking pin, a newly designed trigger safety member and a helicoidal spring. The user may lock the pistol trigger assembly by pushing the locking pin to one safe position, and unlock it with an opposite movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventors: Jorge Enrique Cutini, Fernando Mareque
  • Patent number: 6823621
    Abstract: A system for monitoring use of a weapon. The system includes a monitoring station and at least one weapon in which the weapon fires a projectile. The weapon includes a tracking device, in which the tracking device receives navigational data, and a transceiver. The transceiver transmits at least the navigational data to the monitoring station. The weapon can further include a biometric identifier for identifying a user and a trigger mechanism in which the biometric identifier can enable the trigger mechanism only when the biometric identifier identifies an authorized user. In one arrangement, the tracking device can be a global positioning system receiver that can receive navigational data from a plurality of global positioning system satellites.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Inventor: Bradley L. Gotfried
  • Patent number: 6817131
    Abstract: The invention relates to a safety device for firearms with a firing pin lock to prevent the unintended unlocking of the firearm. The safety device comprises a rotatable safety shaft connected to the firing pin lock with locking surfaces. The safety shaft is adjustable in at least two positions for locking at least the firing pin. The safety shaft, while securing the weapon, is fixed in such a way that any force applied to the safety wing cannot result in movement of either the safety wing or the safety shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventor: Gottfried Prechtl
  • Patent number: 6817130
    Abstract: Improvements in the sensor array are disclosed for an array used in a module for preventing unauthorized use of a firearm or other device. The module to which the invention is applicable of the type including a plurality of pressure sensors for sensing a user's handgrip on the device; comparator means for comparing a pressure signature profile compiled from an output from said pressure sensors with at least one pressure signature profile in storage; and means for preventing operation of the device when the compared profiles do not match. The improved sensor array comprises a first set of spaced electrically conductive lines formed on the gripping surface; a thin layer of (preferably) piezoresistive material overlying the first set of conductive lines; and a second set of spaced electrically conductive lines formed over the piezoresistive layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: New Jersey Institute of Technology
    Inventor: Dentcho Ivanov
  • Patent number: 6785996
    Abstract: A sensor system for detecting jarring, acceleration or other application of force to a firearm, and/or movement of the firearm into an undesired orientation, which includes a sensor array mounted to a firearm. The sensor array detects the excessive acceleration and/or movement of the firearm into certain orientations and generates a sensor signal indicative of a fault condition. In response, a control system blocks or interrupts the firing sequence of the firearm to prevent inadvertent discharge of a round of ammunition by the firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: R.A. Brands, LLC
    Inventors: Dale R. Danner, David O. Matteson